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www.crainsdetroit.com Vol. 26, No. 3 JANUARY 18 – 24, 2010 $2 a copy; $59 a year

©Entire contents copyright 2010 by Crain Communications Inc. All rights reserved Page 3 Chinese fund CEO group says it’s time for tax restructuring loans $33.5M Hot-button ordinances Suspense hangs over fate of film industry, tax credits to Prestolite Inside Money needed for may go up for review Haiti earthquake relief: product launches How to get involved, Page 4 Privatization, preference questioned BY RYAN BEENE CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Second Stage Extra BY NANCY KAFFER nance. bid and compete for work.” Prestolite Electric Inc. ended CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Newly elected council President “We have to give the mayor the 2009 on a high note by closing a Charles Pugh said the city must ability to better negotiate better When number crunchers talk balance its books. prices for city services period,” deal to secure $33.5 million in about cutting Detroit’s costs, two fresh capital, defying the virtu- “It’s time to put Councilwoman issues come up: the city’s anti-pri- everything on the Saunteel Jenk- ally frozen credit markets that vatization ordinance and its policy defined much of last year. table, and that I’m a union guy ins said. “We of giving contract preference to means look- have to pro- The loan was issued to Detroit-based businesses. “ Prestolite’s subsidiary in China ing closely vide Detroiters Both provisions have been a po- ... but we need by Darby Asia Mezzanine Fund at every- with the best litical minefield for past mayors II, a China-based fund of Darby thing,” to look for service for the Second-stage companies and city councils. Overseas Investments Ltd. Pugh said. cheapest price, Challenges to the anti-privatiza- begin to draw attention The Plymouth-based suppli- “I’m a union ways to save and unions tion ordinance are widely viewed er of alternators and starter guy … but should come to as top employers, Page 9 motors for commercial and as an attack on the city’s labor we need to money. the table and heavy-duty vehicles, which re- unions, and preferential treatment look for ” prove they can Crain’s List ported revenue of $320 million for Detroit-based businesses has ways to save Charles Pugh, provide the in 2008, began a search for been closely protected. money.” best service at Macomb County’s largest fresh capital early last year to But times are changing. In a statement to the cheapest fund new product launches for Detroit Mayor Dave Bing and Crain’s, Bing’s press secretary Ed- price.” employers, Page 13 customers in North America some members of the Detroit City ward Cardenas wrote that as part Neither the council nor the may- and China. Council favor an examination of the of the administration’s ongoing re- or can affect the privatization ordi- But the credit crunch and outcome of giving preference to view and assessment of opera- nance directly. The ordinance is This Just In economic uncertainty took se- Detroit-based businesses, and De- tions, “the privatization ordinance mandated by the Detroit City curing funds from U.S.-based troit’s Charter Commission is set to may need to be revisited to allow Dillon proposes 2-year sources off the table as Presto- review the privatization ordi- both public and private agencies to See Privatization, Page 20 state budgeting cycle lite began looking for funding sources through Detroit-based House Speaker Andy Dillon, investment bank W.Y. Campbell D-Redford Township, has in- & Co. troduced a constitutional “The S&P 500 was within 30 amendment that would re- days of its bottom at 666 and the quire the state to complete Hang Seng Index was reaching Local green technology on display two-year budgets. its five-year low at 12,500,” said House Joint Resolution SS, Cliff Roesler, managing direc- introduced Thursday, would Below, the lime green tor at W.Y. Campbell. E-stations, charging station displayed establish a two-year fiscal pe- “The markets were in a state with the BugE is from riod, beginning with the 2011 of panic, and there was no light Livonia-based PEP Stations fiscal year that starts Oct. 1. on the horizon,” Roesler said. battery makers L.L.C. and Ricardo plc, the Statewide CEO group Busi- But Prestolite had an ace up British parent of Van Buren ness Leaders for Michigan has its sleeve — a highly developed Township-based Ricardo Inc. been calling for a two-year Chinese manufacturing, sales at auto show budget cycle, saying it would and R&D operation that is the BY RYAN BEENE allow state government to largest supplier of alternators more accurately project on- and starter motors to China’s CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS going costs of programs. truck and bus market. The “greening” of the auto in- — Amy Lane That helped the company ul- dustry is on full display at the 2010 timately secure the product- North American International Auto launch financing from in- Aastrom plans public offering Show, and during press and indus- PHOTOS COURTESY OF NAIAS vestors based in China. try days last week Southeast Ann Arbor-based Aastrom Above, Electric Avenue is the auto “While our initial explorato- Michigan’s burgeoning e-vehicle show’s home address for a wide Biosciences Inc. (Nasdaq: ry efforts were broader than infrastructure showed signs of variety of electric vehicles. ASTM) announced Friday just Asia, it quickly became ap- gaining lots of traction. that it plans a public offering parent that the best solution For example, Norwegian elec- list, and in all likelihood it will be Spark and plans to reach out to lo- of common stock and war- was available in the Asian re- tric city-car manufacturer Think is Southeast Michigan,” Takasawa cal and state economic develop- rants through New York- gion,” said Kevin Marsh, vice eyeing sites in Southeast Michigan said, citing the concentration of ment authorities about setting up based Oppenheimer and Co. president at W.Y. Campbell. to locate its corporate headquar- automotive engineers, the develop- shop in Michigan. See This Just In, Page 2 ters and technical center for Think ing advanced battery supply chain But Takasawa noted that no de- See Prestolite, Page 18 North America, said Keith Taka- and research at universities as at- cisions have been made yet, and sawa, vice president of business tractive local features. the company is considering other development. Takasawa said he’s had infor- “Michigan is very high on the mal discussions with Ann Arbor See Auto show, Page 19

ON VIDEO SHOW TIME CRAIN’S COVERAGE Stabenow’s take: Senator compares last year's The show is open to the Watch for news and videos auto show with this year's. See the Crain’s public through Sunday. at www.crainsdetroit.com

NEWSPAPER interview at www.crainsdetroit.com/multimedia. Details at naias.com /autoshow 20100118-NEWS--0002-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 4:58 PM Page 1

Page 2 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010

ography of the Social Sciences of Michigan. quire to more investment adviso- Michigan 11th in VC fundraising THIS JUST IN from the London School of Econom- The firm also added two new ry firms in Ohio, with combined ics. non-shareholder attorneys to its money under management of In 2009, venture-capital firms ■ From Page 1 The IBSS, set up in 1951, is an Ann Arbor office and one to its $320 million and is in talks with nationally had their worst abstracting and indexing data- Traverse City location, bringing firms in Pennsylvania and fundraising year since 2003, rais- Inc. The offering will be 46.2 mil- base for social science and inter- the total attorney headcount to Florida. ing $15.2 billion; but relatively lion units at 26 cents per unit, disciplinary research, ProQuest more than 90, according to Mark — Tom Henderson speaking, Michigan fared well, with a unit consisting of one said in a statement. The database Shreve, shareholder and market- according to Thomson Reuters and share of common stock, a Class A has more than 2.5 million biblio- ing programs manager. the Washington-based National warrant to purchase three-quar- graphic references to journal ar- The shareholders at Merril- Vice president buys Elopak Venture Capital Association. They ters of a share of common stock ticles as well as to books, reviews lville, outside of Chicago, prac- raised $28.6 billion last year Milford-based Elopak Precision The state ranked 11th overall, and a Class B warrant to pur- and chapters. It adds about tice insurance defense, trucking Machining was purchased on Jan. and transportation litigation as with five firms raising $83 million. chase half a share of stock. 120,000 additions annually. 1 by a vice president at the com- well as some criminal and appel- California was No. 1 at $5.6 billion, The Class A warrant allows ProQuest plans to migrate the pany who now plans to grow the late law, as do other Garan Lu- with Massachusetts No. 2 at the holder to acquire a share of database to a platform that allows machined parts business. stock for 37 cents within a five- cow attorneys in Michigan. $3.3 billion and Maryland No. 3 at its content to be cross-searchable Now-owner Martin Eidemiller year period, beginning six Garan Lucow is a general busi- $2.8 billion. In the Midwest, only with the company’s other offer- purchased Elopak from former months after the close of the of- ness litigation firm with nine Illinois beat Michigan, with five ings. parent Elopak Americas Packag- fering, and the Class B warrant Michigan offices in Detroit, Troy, firms raising $354.1 million. Terms of the deal were not an- ing Group, renaming the compa- allows the holder to purchase a Ann Arbor, Grand Blanc, Port In the fourth quarter, Michi- nounced. The transaction was ny Eidemiller Precision Machining. share for 26 cents. Huron, Grand Rapids, Lansing, gan ranked fifth among states brokered by London-based Bertoli The parent company had put The company expects net pro- Traverse City and Marquette. with a total of $24.7 million Mitchell, which specializes in pub- its former division up for sale, ceeds of about $10.9 million — or — Chad Halcom raised. RPM Ventures L.L.C. of Ann lishing industry mergers and ac- and Eidemiller said the chances about $12.7 million if the under- Arbor raised $18.8 million for its quisition deals. of finding a buyer were slim. writer exercises its option to ac- second fund, and BioStar Ventures — Bill Shea Rehmann acquires The deal saved 30 jobs, and Ei- quire an over-allotment of stock of Petoskey raised $5.9 million for demiller has hired five additional and warrants. its second fund. Dawson Wealth employees, according to a compa- In part, the company will use Garan Lucow Miller expands In the Midwest, one firm in Illi- Rehmann Financial, a business ny statement. the funds to pay for ongoing hu- nois raised $20 million, a firm in Detroit-based Garan Lucow unit of Rehmann, the Saginaw- Eidemiller expects revenue to man trials of its stem cell-based Wisconsin raised $2.7 million, Miller P.C. grew its footprint out- based accounting and consulting increase up to 30 percent in 2010 products for such conditions as and one in Ohio raised $2.5 mil- side of Michigan for the first firm that manages a large De- severe chronic heart failure and from its best year, 2006, when it lion. California was No. 1 in the time, by absorbing the attorneys troit-area business out of Farm- severe arterial disease. posted $6 million in revenue. quarter, with 14 firms raising of Merrillville, Ind.-based Bokota ington Hills, has acquired Cleve- — Tom Henderson The company posted revenue $1.7 billion, and Massachusetts Wilson & McCloskey P.C. earlier land-based Dawson Wealth of $3.2 million in 2009. was No. 2 at $1.5 billion. this month. Management to create a wealth- — Ryan Beene — Tom Henderson ProQuest buys bibliography The law firm hired attorneys management firm with $1.4 bil- for social sciences research Gregory Bokota, David Wilson and lion under management. Jennifer McCloskey as sharehold- Fred Schaard, president of CORRECTION Ann Arbor-based database soft- ers effective Jan. 1, making Mer- Rehmann Financial, said the ac- ware company ProQuest L.L.C. has rillville the 10th location of quisition kicks off an expansion Ⅲ Four of the Detroit Lions’ eight home games at Ford Field were acquired the International Bibli- Garan Lucow and its first outside plan. It has agreements to ac- blacked out on local television this season. A story on Page 17 of the Jan. 11 edition erroneously reported five games were blacked out.

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January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 3

Inside Tata seeks 200 engineers Time for state tax restructure? for Novi unit, Page 4. CEO group’s proposal has some in doubt Do new stem cell bills bring Michigan needs clarity or restrictions? BY AMY LANE Business Leaders for Michigan proposal and ready “ Page 8. CAPITOL CORRESPONDENT to help make it happen. fundamental “We will be very supportive in the Legisla- LANSING – A statewide CEO group’s propos- ture and work to get this done,” said Mike change. Efficiency panel proposes al to cut the Michigan Business Tax by about Johnston, vice president of government affairs ” $1.1 billion and replace the revenue by taxing for the Michigan Manufacturers Association. Mike Johnston, $1.5B in state savings, services is getting mixed reviews about the tim- “Michigan needs fundamental change, and this Michigan Manufacturers Page 17. ing. is absolutely going in the right direction.” Association A balanced budget achieved through cost- The tax-restructuring proposal, formally laid cutting needs to come first, some business out last week, calls for eliminating the nearly In tandem, the group proposes Michigan groups say. Otherwise, the door is open to raise 22 percent MBT surcharge and reducing the adopt a 5.5 percent sales tax on services while Company index business taxes to help address the current $1.7 rate of the gross receipts tax in the MBT’s base exempting business-to-business transactions, These organizations appear in this week’s Crain’s billion shortfall without pursuing true budget from 0.8 percent to 0.45 percent. Combined, the health care, education, housing and some other Detroit Business: reform. changes would reduce the MBT by about half, But at least one group is on board with the the group said. See Tax, Page 20 A123 Systems ...... 19 Alpha Group ...... 12 Ann Arbor Spark ...... 1 Business Leaders for Michigan ...... 3 CSM Worldwide ...... 18 Delphi ...... 8 Suspense hangs over Detroit City Council ...... 1 Detroit Charter Commission ...... 1 Detroit Regional Chamber ...... 20 Edward Lowe Foundation ...... 9 fledgling film industry Ghostly International ...... 12 Grace & Wild HD Studios ...... 21 Grubb & Ellis ...... 3 Will tax credits survive debate? Hollywood Markets ...... 4 International Auto Components Group ...... 8 BY BILL SHEA Magna International ...... 19 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS FILM NUMBERS Malace & Associates ...... 3 Ⅲ 52 productions were It’s a waiting game right now Michigan Chamber of Commerce ...... 20 for Michigan’s budding film in- completed in 2009, and their $223.6 million in gross in-state Michigan Economic Development ...... 10 dustry, which is coming off its production expenditures are Michigan Film Office ...... 3 highest-profile year yet but faces eligible for $87.2 million in state Michigan Health & Hospital Association ...... 4 political uncertainty. refunds. NATHAN SKID/CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS No major productions are Owner Larry Malace says his human resources management company, Malace & Michigan Manufacturers Association ...... 3 Ⅲ There were 62 productions Associates Inc. of Troy, hopes to nearly halve the portion of its business that filming in metro Michigan Production Alliance ...... 21 approved in 2009, not all of comes from the automotive sector, from 78 percent to an expected 40 percent. CTION Detroit — no which will be completed, and the Miller Canfield Paddock & Stone ...... 20 A ! movies call for state would pay $118.7 million Myine Electronics ...... 10 snow, ice and gray on their $304.5 million gross in- Rolling: NAIAS ...... 1 Several skies at the mo- state production expenses. That studio ment — but work includes some of the 52 Netarx ...... 9 projects in completed productions. Original Equipment Suppliers Association ...... 19 continues on sever- Ⅲ production, al studio projects, The state also estimates that Beyond auto Parallax Production Studios ...... 21 Page 21 the 52 projects accounted for and shoots are ex- PEP Stations ...... 19 4,274 direct production jobs. pected to begin in Some of those positions likely Prestolite Electric ...... 1 the spring. Staffing firm Malace grabs revenue jump were filled by the same people Raleigh Studios ...... 21 Hollywood came to Michigan working on different movies. Ricardo ...... 19 with a vengeance in 2009, fueled BY SHERRI WELCH are skilled trades jobs in industri- Ⅲ In 2008, 35 of 71 approved SC Entertainment Group ...... 21 by the most lucrative incentives projects were completed. The CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS al automation manufacturing, 60 in the nation, which refund up to state paid $32.8 million so far (of are in logistics and transportation Small Business Association of Michigan ...... 10 42 percent of production costs a total of $48 million) on $125 Troy-based human resources and 30 are in resource manage- Tata Sons ...... 4 and 25 percent of permanent in- million in approved production management company Malace & ment and recycling. Taubman Centers ...... 21 expenses. frastructure work in the state. Associates Inc. expects its diversifi- Two years ago, 78 percent of the The Dako Group ...... 19 Fifty-two productions were Source: Michigan Film Office cation into nonautomotive indus- company’s business was automo- 23rd Street Studios ...... 21 completed in 2009, with $223.6 tries to help double its tive. This year, UM Ross School of Business ...... 11 million in gross in-state produc- revenue this year. Malace expects it to be tion expenditures of which the mored vehicles. After seeing rev- OntheGrow only 40 percent. UM Stem Cell Research Center ...... 8 state will refund $87.2 million, So what will 2010 be like? enue drop to $15 mil- “Coming out of the Unity Studios ...... 21 said Ken Droz, communications “It’s kind of soon to say, but lion last year from $20 On the Grow is a recession or even in it, Wind Point Partners ...... 18 manager for the Lansing-based we’re getting a sense that we’re million in 2008, feature that will companies are looking appear in most issues World Medical Relief ...... 4 Michigan Film Office, the agency on the radar of people in Holly- Malace expects sales at what their core highlighting growing W.Y. Campbell ...... 1 that handles incentive applica- wood more so than before. to reach $30 million in competencies are and companies, large and Xoran Technologies ...... 11 tions. (See box, Page 21) There’s more of a comfort zone 2010, as it expands in evaluating their busi- small. Know of a Zingerman’s Community of Businesses ...... 11 That’s up from 2008’s 35 com- for people to come here,” Droz six states with new company you think ness models,” said pleted projects with a payout of said. contracts. Crain’s should write owner Larry Malace. $48 million on $125 million in ap- His office, along with other In Michigan, during about? Contact “They are separat- Department index proved production expenses. public and private agencies, has the first quarter, Managing Editor ing their human capi- Probably the biggest splash in been marketing the state and its Malace plans to place Andrew Chapelle at tal into core and non- BANKRUPTCIES ...... 17 [email protected]. 2009 was made by the remake of incentives to filmmakers for the just over 300 new con- core competencies.” BUSINESS DIARY ...... 16 past two years. the 1984 hit “Red Dawn,” which tract employees Between October CALENDAR ...... 16 reaches theaters in November. Two of what he termed major around the state to accommodate 2008 and March 2009, Malace & As- CAPITOL BRIEFINGS...... 17 The production, which spent productions are likely to film agreements with Grubb & Ellis Co. sociates lost approximately 48 per- between $40 million and $50 mil- over several months in Michigan in Southfield and an unnamed, na- cent of its business because of the CAREERWORKS ...... 14 lion in Michigan, saw several this year, but he declined to offer tional food service, facilities man- automotive downturn, its owner CLASSIFIED ADS ...... 14 downtown Detroit streets closed specifics. agement and uniform provider. said. KEITH CRAIN...... 6 for weeks while crews filmed ex- About 130 of those jobs are in fa- MARY KRAMER ...... 7 plosions, gun battles and ar- See Film, Page 21 cility maintenance, more than 50 See Malace, Page 19 OPINION ...... 6 OTHER VOICES ...... 6 Tell us your story On the go? Keep in touch on the road. PEOPLE ...... 15 THIS WEEK @ How has Crain’s made a difference in Crainsdetroit.com is now redesigned RUMBLINGS ...... 22 your career or enterprise? Tell us at for your mobile. Clearer, sharper and WWW.CRAINSDETROIT.COM www.crainsdetroit.com/yourstory in the palm of your hand. WEEK ON THE WEB ...... 22 20100118-NEWS--0004-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 3:31 PM Page 1

Page 4 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010

GETTING YOUR Medical groups, businesses, MESSAGE ACROSS? charities offer aid for Haiti

BY NANCY KAFFER es have already signed up to go to CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS ON THE WEB Haiti,” said John Karebian, the as- sociation’s executive director. The following local agencies are In the wake of last week’s tragedy just some of the organizations and “More nurses are needed, though. in Haiti, local businesses and insti- businesses participating in the Even more important, money is tutions are offering aid to those af- Haiti earthquake relief effort: needed for travel expenses and sup- fected by the brutal earthquake — Ⅲ The Salvation Army: plies. We call on the residents of and offering metro Detroiters mul- www.salvationarmyusa.org Michigan to help send the nurses to tiple avenues to get involved. Ⅲ American Red Cross: Haiti through their donations.” It is estimated that at least one- www.redcross.org Ⅲ A group of 20 Wayne State Uni- third of Haiti’s population of 9 mil- Ⅲ The United Way: versity medical students, the lion will need damage relief from www.unitedway.org school’s chapter of the World Health the earthquake that hit the pover- Student Organization, planned to vis- ty-stricken country Jan. 12, leav- the Salvation Army. it Haiti Feb. 25 to March 7. MARKETING ‡ PR ‡ DESIGN ‡ NEW MEDIA ing as many as 50,000 dead. Ⅲ Miramar, Fla.-based Spirit Air- “As soon the students heard identitypr.com Local businesses and organiza- lines, which operates at Detroit Met- about the earthquake you would tions offering aid include: ropolitan Airport, said it would have thought they would have Ⅲ The Michigan Health and Hospi- award 5,000 miles to Free Spirit fre- been concerned about still going tal Association is urging its 146 hos- quent-flier members who donate at on the trip, but the reaction was pital members to directly coordi- least $5 to the Red Cross, UNICEF or the total opposite,” said Rosita Ior- nate their efforts with the American Yele Haiti to help provide relief. danova, a second-year medical stu- Red Cross and the U.S. Agency for In- Ⅲ The General Motors Foundation dent. “The students are even more ternational Development. approved a $100,000 grant to the motivated to go to Haiti and make Ⅲ Detroit-based World Medical American Red Cross relief fund, a difference in people’s lives.” Relief is collecting medical and sur- and United Way of Washtenaw County Nonprofit WHSO is seeking do- gical supplies from Southeast sent an e-mail to its supporters to nations of medicine, vitamins, Michigan hospitals, including De- urge them to contribute to the condoms, pregnancy test kits, troit Medical Center and William United Way Worldwide Disaster blood pressure cuffs and blood sug- Beaumont Hospitals in Royal Oak, Fund through its Web site at ar measuring kits. and other health care organiza- https://volunteer.united-e- Ⅲ Dexter-based ReCellular is tions to ship to Haiti. way.org/uwwwdisaster/donate/ helping the American Red Cross Ⅲ The Michigan State Medical Soci- Ⅲ The Michigan Nurses Associa- raise funds via used cell phones. ety is encouraging doctors and oth- tion is taking volunteers for disas- The company is offering prepaid ers to contribute to the Red Cross ter relief work in Port-au-Prince. mailing labels to people who and/or Doctors Without Borders. In addition, National Nurses Unit- would like to donate used cell Ⅲ Troy-based Hollywood Market ed, the 150,000-member nurses phones, and will give 100 percent will match donations for relief ef- union of which MNA is a member, of the phone value Red Cross. Pre- forts in Haiti made at any of its has activated its Registered Nurse paid labels are available at seven eastern Oakland County Response Network. The network, www.phonesforhaiti.com. stores. The first $10,000 in dona- which responded to Katrina, will Reporters Jay Greene, Sherri Welch tions will be matched, and the gro- send hundreds of nurses to Haiti. and Bill Shea contributed to this re- cery chain will send the funds to “More than 2,000 registered nurs- port. Tata’s Novi unit looks to hire 200 engineers

BY LINDSAY CHAPPELL CRAIN NEWS SERVICE A123-Fisker deal may mean 540 jobs The Novi-based engineering sub- A contract won by Watertown, with the intent of A123 supplying sidiary of Indian conglomerate Tata Mass.-based A123 Systems Inc. batteries for the vehicle — which Sons Ltd. has a buoyant outlook on may result in up to 540 skilled is expected to launch in 2012 with business in Detroit these days. workers being hired in plants in a price of nearly $48,000, accord- Thanks to outsourced vehicle Livonia and Romulus through ing to a statement by A123. engineering programs from other 2012. In August, A123 received a $249 NATURAL GAS / PROPANE HEATERS automakers, the 450-employee op- Under the agreement, A123 million grant from the U.S. Depart- eration in Novi has immediate (NASDAQ: AONE) will supply ment of Energy to fund its $600 mil- openings for 200 more engineers. lithium-ion batteries to Irvine, lion battery operations in South- “We expect to be at 650 to 700 peo- Calif.-based Fisker Automotive Inc. east Michigan. ple here within the next three to be used in Fisker’s Karma The 291,000-square-foot Livo- months or so,” plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, nia plant, at 39000 W. Seven Mile said Warren which is scheduled to launch lat- Road, will have an annual capaci- Harris, presi- er this year. The batteries will be ty of 320,000 batteries for hybrid dent of Tata Tech- manufactured at its newly leased vehicles and 24,000 batteries for nologies Inc. Livonia plant in the second half plug-ins. Harris, 46, of this year A123 also leased a building at manages the As part of the agreement, A123 38100 Ecorse Road in Romulus Portable Heaters (Natural or LP Gas) from 16,000 company’s glob- and Fisker will collaborate on last year. to 4,000,000 BTU’s are available for sale or rent. al operations, Fisker’s “Project Nina” platform — Dustin Walsh including its Also in stock are Ground Thawers and Fans. main campus in that he declined to name. India for about $2,500. Harris Pune, India. One project will help develop a ve- Harris said he expects to play an “We’re seeing a more sophisti- hicle platform expected to yield mul- engineering role on recrafting the cated attitude about outsourcing tiple North American derivatives. U.S. version of the Nano if Tata *Lift Truck Fuel* *Temporary Heat* vehicle engineering to other com- The other project has Tata engineer- pushes ahead with its plan to de- panies,” the British native said. ing an Asian vehicle to meet U.S. velop it. Company Chairman “Automakers are looking for fru- safety and emission requirements. Ratan Tata has said the Nano will gal engineering solutions today.” Tata acquired the U.S. unit in reach the United States in three to 7200 Inkster Rd. Phone: (313)292-9100 The company supplies automak- Novi, previously known as Incat In- four years. P.O.Box 35 Fax: (313) 292-5950 ers and other industries with ternational Ltd., in 2005. Harris arranged for a Nano to go Taylor, MI 48180-0035 www.propaneservices.net many engineering services. Harris Tata Technologies played a cen- on display at the Detroit Science said Tata has landed two large new tral role in developing the inex- Center last week. projects from Asian automakers pensive Nano car, which sells in From Automotive News dbpagead.qxd 9/18/2009 1:04 PM Page 1

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Page 6 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010 OPINION Stem cell research, center need support hat if Michigan had a strong chance to take a chunk out of a new industry projected to grow to $8 billion W within six years? Worth an investment? The industry is stem cells. Thanks to a voter-approved amendment to the Michigan constitution, restrictions have been lifted on stem cell research. Now, Detroit and the entire region have huge opportunities to transform medical research into commercial applications. But two things need to happen: First, Michigan lawmakers should lay off trying to do an end run around what voters approved in November 2008. A package of six bills in the Michigan Senate would essentially counter voters’ intent. (See story, Page 8.) Because of the November 2008 vote, Michigan is sparking in- ternational interest in life sciences. The University of Michigan, researcher Eva Feldman tells Crain’s, has received more federal stimulus dollars for medical research than any other university in the country, in large part because of the state’s less restrictive climate for stem cell research. This is not the time to apply the brakes because some lawmakers didn’t like the voters’ decision. Second, business, community and government leaders need to find a creative way to get a stem cell commercializa- tion center off the ground at Wayne State University’s Tech- OTHER VOICES Town. As Crain’s reported, the center will need $1 million a year for three years to successfully launch. (See “Charlton still seeking stem cell center funds,” Jan. 11.) Newcomer ‘discovers’ Detroit Already, at least 11 Israeli companies are expected to set up shop at the WSU incubator, three of them related to stem cell Can one who enjoyed living in sole major U.S. city that publish- to notice the museum district. pacesetting New York, “Big Shoul- ing houses consider not worth a I don’t know whether Detroiters research, products or therapies. ders” Chicago, fully dedicated tourist guide. I still prefer to keep a low-profile atti- A commercialization center located within a few blocks of “Imperial” Lon- recall the ill-hidden grimace of tude about their city or just don’t two of the largest hospital complexes in the Midwest can be a don, “Eternal” surprise when I asked for a guide feel at ease talking about it, espe- game-changer for Detroit. Rome, “Renais- to Detroit at a Manhattan Fifth Av- cially when the car industry hasn’t The center needs a firm funding commitment before De- sance” Flo- enue bookshop. Apparently, Mo- been doing well. One end result is rence, enchanti- town does not deserve more than a that a newcomer has to discover troit welcomes the World Stem Cell Summit to Detroit in Octo- ng Naples and chapter of an “exploring Michi- architectural attractions includ- ber. That’s an opportunity that would be foolish to squander. regal Turin, and gan” book. ing, for example, Indian Village, who was born in I have been more or less a regu- thanks to his or her own Googling. Ravenna, Italy lar visitor of Detroit for a quarter It reminds me of another motor — the capital of century, and I feel fortunate to town, Turin, whose inhabitants’ Reform state government now Gualberto Ranieri the Western Ro- number a bunch of friends here, love for understatement is almost man Empire in the fourth century most of whom are journalists. Odd- legendary. In view of well-de- The mood in Detroit was on the upswing last week as auto A.D. and renowned for its mosaics ly enough, no one has ever recom- served international publicity executives and journalists from around the world streamed — get excited to live and work in mended that I visit, for example, gained thanks to the 2006 Winter into the North American International Auto Show. Detroit? the Detroit Institute of Arts. My Olympic Games, Torino (as it’s But that same mood shifts dramatically when Michigan Yes, but let’s be blunt: A pro- wife, Luisa, and I entered the ele- called in Italian) is now renowned business leaders look at 2010 and the prospects of another year longed acquaintance with detec- gant Italian Renaissance-styled “also” for hosting an unpredicted tive fiction and, perhaps more, building courtesy of the remark- second-most-important Egyptian of paralysis in Lansing. four years of reporting for the able “Avedon Fashion Pho- museum in the world and the in- As Amy Lane reports on Page 3, Business Leaders for BBC, where I was introduced to in- tographs 1944-2000” exhibition. I triguing Shroud. Moreover, Turin Michigan, a group of state CEOs from large employers, are vestigative journalism, can be left the building embarrassed to is, quite simply, the most magnifi- hoping to broker government transformation in exchange for somewhat valuable. As a matter of have ignored this outstanding and cent baroque city in Europe. It is expanding the state’s sales tax to cover consumer services. fact, discovering Detroit requires excellently well-kept museum for the place where architects Guari- some effort and determination. so long. And I am even more un- Michigan cannot afford another year of inaction. Most probably, Detroit is the comfortable when I reckon I failed See Other Voices, Page 7 KEITH CRAIN: It was a very good week for our city Last week, the automobile in- perately needs updating plenty of news, there As one CEO said last week,” If you jewel, the North American Inter- dustry took over Motown. Once and expansion, no one just didn’t seem to be are in the global auto industry, national Auto Show. again, it seemed to be everything was complaining about much reason for any- you have to come to the interna- Let’s be clear: The show is the that we expect Detroit to be. Cobo. There were too one to be wandering tional motor show in Detroit.” No. 1 activity for economic devel- More than 5,000 journalists from many vehicles to review about the city looking But we can’t assume that every- opment in our community. It helps all over the world came to town, for journalists to worry for bad news to write thing is just fine and no one needs the entire Southeast Michigan eager to learn what the motor in- about the building. about. to worry about Cobo Hall. It’s still economy, not just Detroit. It puts our city on the map and dustry had to offer. And this year, there The show may not beyond its useful age, and if we’re generates more economic impact They did not seem to be disap- were plenty of execu- have had the hoopla of going to continue to court these in- in bad times than anything else pointed. Happily, there was a lot tives from automobile some recent years, but ternational automobile manufac- does in the best of times. It’s that for them to look at under the roof companies around the it was perfectly right- turers, we have to make sure the big a deal. We, as citizens of our re- of Cobo Hall. And even more hap- world who gave the sized for the facility and renovation and expansion are on gion, should never lose sight of pily there were no noticeable com- writers even more sub- for today’s economy. the front burner. that fact. plaints about Cobo. jects to write about. In spite of the slightly smaller We’ve got 12 months to update It was a great week for Detroit, Although the facility still des- With an auto show that had size, it’s still a very exciting show. the facility to protect this Detroit by any measure. 20100118-NEWS--0007-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 3:27 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 7 MARY KRAMER: Public discourse should be a civil rite

Jim Leach was a Republican don’t get a lot of media Jay Noren on another behavior. “safe” political districts that allow member of Congress for 30 years, attention, but this is matter to Mussolini. Major hospitals and university politicians to avoid the center and representing part of Iowa. one story that should. Both faculty leaders medical centers, for example, have play to the extremes. A moderate, he lost his seat in On Jan. 11, the South object to wording in been making headlines for devis- Regardless of whom you blame, 2006, became a “Republican for End student newspa- the draft that they be- ing standards to ensure re- at least we know that WSU stu- Obama” in 2008 and now chairs the per reported that a pro- lieve restricts free searchers aren’t compromised by dents are learning important National Endowment for the Hu- posed code of ethics for speech. But instead of dollars from pharmaceutical com- lessons on public rhetoric from the manities. the university was de- simply offering alter- panies. elected faculty leadership at And on Feb. 2, he’ll bring his 50- scribed as “a fascist native language, they But as academic wags from Hen- Wayne State. state American Civility Tour to document from a fas- pulled out the rhetori- ry Kissinger to Harvard profs who Wayne State University. The lec- cist administration” cal Howitzers to attack preceded him have noted over the Mary Kramer is publisher of ture will be at 7 p.m. in the Par- by its academic senate Noren. years, academic politics are so vi- Crain's Detroit Business. Catch her trich Auditorium of the Wayne president. All this over an idea cious because the stakes are so take on business news at 6:10 a.m. State University Law School. This follows the to create standards of small. Mondays on the Paul W. Smith show “Public officials are being la- very public comments in which conduct at a time when the na- Some blame talk radio for the on WJR AM 760 and in her blog at beled ‘fascist’ or ‘communist,’ ” far the faculty union president com- tional mood seems to call for deteriorating public discourse. In www.crainsdetroit.com/kramer. too often, Leach noted in a speech pared actions by WSU President greater transparency and ethical politics, Leach blames too many E-mail her at [email protected]. in November that kicked off the tour. People who disagree with one another’s views stand the risk of being smeared with some ugly words. And words matter, Leach contends. Ugly words polarize atti- tudes and freeze positions. Paralysis? Polarization? Sound NEW ways for you to benefi t from CRAIN’S a little like Lansing?

Closer to home, perhaps some faculty members on Wayne State’s

own campus might audit Leach’s lecture. Print EVENTS I’ve been a volunteer in various Online roles at WSU for nearly 20 years. & The university’s internal politics @

OTHER VOICES Crain’s Second Stage ■ From Page 6 E-newsletter Launching January 22 > EVENTS no Guarini, Filippo Juvarra, and Second Stage quarterly Bernardo Vittore developed a News, information and resources that can workshops tackle unique Baroque style of great help you guide the growth of your company. structural audacity. opportunities and Detroiters’ shyness is at odds Crain’s Second Stage is designed to help challenges to business with the extroversion of established business owners develop owners as well as Chicagoans who proudly publicize their companies. peer-to-peer discussions their city’s beauties. I wish to be clear: Chicago is simply gorgeous and idea sharing. and living there is absolutely pleasant. But Detroit’s northern Crain’s print edition, e-newsletters and workshops offer: Print ’burbs, the web of lakes, the sump- Expertise from outside experts, your peers and Crain’s tuous mansions and estates hid- award-winning journalism Watch for Second Stage den like precious jewels in hard- Extra on the third Monday woods (one has to wait for the Best practices, tips, techniques winter to discover them) and, of the month in Crain’s more in general, Michigan’s multi- Profiles of growing companies and how they make decisions Detroit Business. This faceted landscape offer captivating week, it begins on Page 9. opportunities to newcomers. Being Italian, I can’t neglect a reference to restaurants. Once again, a pleasant discovery, espe- Crain’s Michigan Business cially if one loves fish (high quali- ty of meat is a given in the U.S.). I E-newsletter Launching January 27 > EVENTS can count at least 10 well-above-av- Crain’s Michigan Business erage restaurants worth a visit to enjoy both their cuisine and decor. Crain’s Michigan Business builds community quarterly events offer For the benefit of my friend who and access to business news and information provocative discussions and recently called me from London from across the state. networking opportunities with (certainly not a capital for gourmet) to wish me good fortune Aimed at civically engaged C-suite executives, key leaders throughout the with my dining out, I can assure philanthropists, foundation executives, state. The first event occurs that I do not miss any of the many elected leaders and public-policy makers. on March 23 in Lansing. restaurants in Chicago I used to go to. Crain’s Michigan Business: Last but not least, should new- Print Encourages a greater exchange of ideas, innovation and comers choose to live in a subdivi- Crain’s Detroit Business sion in Bloomfield Hills, they may commerce across the state find it welcoming and even be will have a special focus on Offers ways for leaders to network pampered by people who are very statewide policy issues six neighborly. times in 2010. Note to practiced skeptics: I’m not on the Detroit Metro Conven- tion and Visitors Bureau payroll. I’m — only — a proud employee of > Sign up for any of these e-newsletters at www.crainsdetroit.com/getemail. To advertise in Crain’s E-newsletters Chrysler Group who recently SIGN UP contact Marla Downs at 313.446.6032 moved to Auburn Hills. > For event information & registration, go to www.crainsdetroit.com/events. or e-mail at [email protected] Gualberto Ranieri is senior vice NOW! > Subscribe at crainsdetroit.com/subscribe. president of communications for Chrysler Group L.L.C. in Auburn Hills. 20100118-NEWS--0008-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 2:08 PM Page 1

Page 8 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010 Stem cell standoff: Do bills bring clarity or new restrictions?

BY JAY GREENE The original amendment, called of implantability, not whether an George said he expects the George said another change re- CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Proposal 2, allows the donation of embryo carries genes that could health policy committee to vote on duces the paperwork researchers embryos left over from fertility cause serious or fatal diseases later. the bills Jan. 20. He authored SB must submit to the state on their Stem cell researchers are voic- treatments or those “not suitable Researchers raised concerns at 647 and said the bills provide bet- embryo research. ing concerns about a package of for implantation.” a legislative hearing last October, ter definitions and accountability. “We have lessened the reporting six bills in the Michigan Senate in- One hang-up over the new bills and Sen. Tom George, R-Kalama- Maxine Berman, director of spe- requirements to a one-page annual tended to revise the constitutional concerns the impact of an expanded zoo and chairman of the Michigan cial projects for Gov. Jennifer report,” he said. amendment on research voters ap- description of “not suitable for im- Senate Health Granholm, said Granholm opposes The bills would require re- proved in November 2008. plantation” — defining it in terms Policy Committee, legislation that restricts ethical searchers and in vitro fertilization said several stem cell research. facilities to file annual reports de- changes have “For people for whom stem cell tailing how many embryos are been made in research is the latest best hope, used for research, how many are Senate Bills 647- these bills would be an enormous thrown out without being used 652 as a result. blow,” Berman said. “I do not be- and how many are held in storage, George — an lieve the governor will sign a bill George said. Want to jazz up anesthesiologist that will limit something she so “Some people said we are throw- who is running heavily supported on the ballot.” ing away thousands of embryos, but your next meeting? for governor Voters approved the amendment we don’t know how many,” George George Our cultural places offer creative spaces. and a chief op- by a 4-percentage-point margin. said. “There is a public policy inter- ponent of the original amendment According to the revised bill, est in getting a handle on the num- — said the bills add necessary defi- “not suitable for implantation bers of new cell lines created.” nitions and clarifications to sever- means the human embryo exhibits Morrison said the reporting re- Complimentary concierge planning. al provisions. genetic or physiological character- quirements could encourage pa- Entertainment, events, meetings and more. But Sean Morrison, director of istics that, in the best judgment of tients to go outside Michigan to the University of Michigan’s Center the attending physician, make im- seek fertility treatment. “I suspect for Stem Cell Biology Research, said plantation unlikely.” this bill is a first step toward re- the substitute bills create potential George said the language was stricting the availability of fertili- the roadblocks for researchers and borrowed from a definition on un- ty treatment in Michigan,” Morri- could discourage people who have suitable embryos from the Ameri- son said. cultural undergone fertility treatments can College of Obstetricians and Gy- George said the substitute bills concierge from donating unused embryos. necologists. also correct a drafting error in the a program of the cultural alliance “The effect of this bill would be to But Morrison said the new defi- penalty section for violating laws of southeastern michigan, block most of the nition falls short on scientific governing research: Violators are a 501(c)(3) organization research con- grounds and does not help re- subject to up to five years of jail templated under searchers or those wishing to do- time and fines up to $5,000. Michi- Proposal 2 and to nate unusable embryonic stem gan is one of 10 states that have prevent scien- cells. passed legislation specifically per- www.theculturalconcierge.org tists in Michigan Some unused embryos are able mitting research on embryonic 248.766.5599 [email protected] from doing to be implanted but have been stem cells. Michigan also is now many types of found to carry genes that can give one of three states that have ap- stem cell re- rise to various fatal or debilitating proved constitutional amend- search that are diseases, Morrison said. ments to allow the research. The done throughout For example, patients may other two are Missouri and Cali- Morrison the rest of the choose to discard embryos that fornia. country,” Morrison said. have been found to carry a genetic Scientists say embryonic stem In Southeast Michigan “When Senator George says that disorder such as the Huntington’s cell research could lead to cures he accepts the results of Prop 2 and disease gene. for conditions such as diabetes, just wants to regulate the re- “These embryos would not meet sickle cell anemia, Parkinson’s, In Your Corner. search, that would be like me say- Senator George’s restrictive new Alzheimer’s, heart attack, stroke, ing that I accept that we need an standard for ‘unsuitable for clini- breast and prostate cancer and auto industry but just want to reg- cal use’ in these bills, because the spinal cord injuries. ulate it by making it illegal for embryos are presumed to implant Jay Greene: (313) 446-0325, cars to have wheels in Michigan.” normally,” Morrison said. [email protected] IAC, Delphi chiefs: A better road ahead

BY JESSE SNYDER more working capital. ready to take it out here (in North AND SHAWN WRIGHT “They’ll first have to build in- America) and Europe,” he said. CRAIN NEWS SERVICE ventory” before they can sell the 2. “Quit smoking.” In other parts, Ross said. “Many of the com- words, slash auto emissions. Make Two automotive supplier execu- panies are find- greener products with lighter and tives urged the industry to hasten ing their lenders more integrated parts. the pace of change so it can gener- will not provide 3. “Stay in touch.” That means ate a better sales year in 2010 and the funding, so improve collaboration between au- thrive in an emerging new land- they’ll literally tomakers and suppliers. As auto- scape. go out of busi- motive technology demands in- Wilbur Ross Jr., chairman of ness because crease, players that collaborate Dearborn-based International Auto- they can’t fi- most effectively will be the win- motive Components Group, told the nance the ramp- ners, O’Neal said. Automotive News World Congress up.” 4. “Reduce stress.” Because au- in Detroit last week that the next Separately, tomakers and suppliers are inter- 10 years will see a renaissance of Ross Troy-based Del- dependent, they must reduce the auto industry, in part because phi Corp. CEO Rodney O’Neal stress by changing the way they of a shift to a better business mod- urged the industry to prepare for interact if they want to boost mar- el. “a new reality of lower volume and gins on both sides. To do that, He sees 2010 as a starting point a slow recovery” ahead. O’Neal urged companies to re- for this recovery, in part because To help suppliers and the entire vamp their business models. the negative effects of the General industry prosper in the years “It has to make sense for both Motors and Chrysler bankruptcies ahead, O’Neal, 56, suggested four sides to survive,” he said. “Suppli- will be absent. In addition, more New Year’s resolutions: ers cannot have razor-thin mar- credit is available for dealers’ floor 1. “Lose weight.” That means gins and still make upfront invest- planning and customers’ purchas- cut global capacity. Automakers ments in innovation.” es. have 30 million units of excess ca- O’Neal said he is optimistic as Even so, Ross, 72, expects more pacity, “and it’s even worse on the auto volume starts to improve. 866-4VARNUM www.varnumlaw.com auto suppliers to go out of business supplier side,” O’Neal said. As “Imagine the fun we’re going to

I Novi (Metro Detroit) I Grand Rapids I Kalamazoo I Grand Haven I Lansing this year. companies add capacity in emerg- have,” he said. “There are lots of As the industry begins to ramp ing markets such as China, India, problems to solve.” up, he said, suppliers will need Russia and Brazil, “they better be From Automotive News 20100118-NEWS--0009-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 4:35 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 9

Extra WHAT IS A SECOND-STAGE COMPANY? Second-stage companies are led by growth- focused entrepreneurs with market-ready products or services. They generally have revenue of $1 million-$50 million with employees in the 10-100 range. The Edward Lowe Foundation found that such firms provided 35.7 percent of Michigan jobs in 200, more than any other company category.

A CONVERSATION WITH

Mark Lange, Executive CEO Duane director, Edward Tursi heads a Lowe Foundation second-stage company — Netarx L.L.C. — that grew The Cassopolis-based Edward revenue by Lowe Foundation recently launched 30 percent in YourEconomy.org, which showcases 2009 and made volumes of national business data. an acquisition In particular, the foundation is that added more focusing on second-stage than 150 companies. Mark Lange, executive employees. The company director, spoke with Crain’s reporter projects growth Nancy Kaffer about these companies this year, too. — what they are, why they’re NATHAN SKID/CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS different, and why government agencies and the business community should take note. Why are second-stage companies different from startups? They’re moving really fast and often dealing with several complex problems at the same time. That’s why they don’t focus on traditional ways of learning. Second to none They don’t go to seminars or workshops because they are in the business of doing it. They need “just-in-time” Stage-two companies are top employers information. This week they need to know how to find talent, next week they need product development information, and you have to be able – now they’re starting to get attention to deliver at the time they need it. Everything second-stage business BY NANCY KAFFER ry,” Tursi said. “And we’ve been around part to work by the foundation. owners see or do is through the lens CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS for 12 years.” In metro Detroit in 2007, second-stage of their business; that’s why peer Netarx is what is kown as a “second- companies — defined by the foundation learning works well for them. etarx L.L.C. is a good story. The stage” company, a as having 10-99 em- What do they need? How do we Auburn Hills-based seller of network growing business ployees — employed help them? We need to transform N infrastructure products and services, with approximately 611,581 people. That how we provide business assistance. founded in 1997 with CEO Duane Tursi’s $1 million to $50 mil- We sometimes joke was 35.7 percent of We help small businesses, which are savings of just $20,000, had 30 percent rev- lion in annual rev- “ Michigan’s jobs, critically important to our community, enue growth in enue. Such companies that one day we’ll be more than in any oth- but second-stage companies intend 2009. And that was are creating jobs discovered as an er company category to keep growing. We, unfortunately, WEB EXTRA before Netarx ac- more rapidly than in the state. don’t have high-end resources to give Learning the hard way: quired a Minneso- their counterparts overnight success story. In contrast, stage- them what they need, when they Duane Tursi and Jake ta-based company both smaller and larg- one companies (those need it, at the speed they need it. Sigal discuss what it was — a move that er, according to the And we’ve been around with one to nine em- I love the image of the jet that’s like to guide their pushed sales past Cassopolis-based Ed- ployees) employed being refueled in midair. That’s how second-stage businesses without assistance, $40 million and in- ward Lowe Foundation. for 12 years. 499,726, stage-four we have to treat second-stage incentives or experience, creased the compa- And like Tursi’s ” companies (more companies. Catch up with them, give www.crainsdetroit.com ny’s employee ros- company, most sec- Duane Tursi, Netarx L.L.C. than 500 employees) them what they need and let them /secondstage ter from about 50 to ond-stage companies employed 391,980, keep going. more than 200. Now haven’t received government benefits or and stage-three companies (100-499 em- What should state and local the company’s hiring again, projecting splashy front-page news coverage touting ployees) employed 300,488. governments do? continued growth in 2010. their successes. It’s a consistent trend: In the years for Instead of clustering companies by But for the most part, the Netarx story But that’s changing. which the foundation has compiled data, just industry and targeting industries hasn’t attracted a lot of attention. Second-stage companies are attracting second-stage companies always have had for growth, inventory your companies “We sometimes joke that one day we’ll more attention from government entities and make sure you’re offering good be discovered as an overnight success sto- and the business community, thanks in See Second, Page 10 stage-specific incentives instead of selling the same off-the-shelf stuff to everyone. You’ll have a much better chance of covering the needs of the CRAIN’S LAUNCHES SECOND-STAGE COVERAGE SECOND-STAGE WORKSHOP SERIES second-stage business community. Second Stage will appear this issue and will our latest second-stage Crain’s Second Stage learning opportunities with in Crain’s on the third become weekly on Feb. 1. news and information. Workshops are a series of best practices, practical If you know someone in small Monday of each month, At crainsdetroit.com To sign up, go to in-depth events on topics tips and techniques. business, a second-stage reporting on trends, /secondstage, we’ll crainsdetroit.com aimed at growing The first workshop, company or Detroit or opportunities and gather news, expert /getemail. businesses that have “Where’s the Money? Wayne County troubles that concern blogs, multimedia and Do you have a story idea approximately 10-100 Financing for growing government growing companies. local resources for for the Second Stage employees or $1 million to companies,” is Feb. 24, Nancy Kaffer We also are launching a second-stage companies. section? Contact reporter $50 million in annual 7:30-10:30 a.m., at the should feature analyzing recent We encourage readers to Nancy Kaffer at (313) revenue. MSU Management interview, business decisions by a engage in the 446-0412 or nkaffer Select educational Education Center in Troy. call (313) second-stage company in community. @crain.com, or section institutions and business Tickets are $50 each, or 446-0412 or a feature called Stage On the second and fourth editor Michelle Darwish at development organizations $45 for groups of five or write nkaffer Two Strategies, which Friday of every month, an (313) 446-1621 or will work with Crain’s to more. To register, go to @crain.com appears on Page 12 in e-newsletter will feature [email protected]. supplement the peer- crainsdetroit.com/events. 20100118-NEWS--0010-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 4:34 PM Page 1

Page 10 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010 Second Stage Extra Second: Stage-two firms get noticed ■ From Page 9 the most jobs, despite overall job declines in recent years. CAPITAL IDEAS “They’re really, really important Paul Brown, director of the capital markets development group at the to your community, but you don’t Michigan Economic Development Corp., said the organization is especially realize how many jobs they create,” focused on second-stage companies because of their ability to create jobs. said Mark Lange, executive direc- The MEDC has launched a number of programs to assist second-stage tor of the foundation. “They also at- companies in their quest for working capital: tract money, and there’s a lot of en- Michigan Loan Participation institutions on behalf of borrowers. ergy and enthusiasm around those Program: Designed to help finance Capital Access Program: The companies. They attract other com- diversification projects, the program will match 3 percent to panies, and they attract talent even program purchases a portion of a 7 percent of a loan, placing that though they do, a lot of times, oper- loan from the lender then offers a sum in a reserve account at a ate below the radar.” 36-month grace period on that lender bank, Brown said. The bank Representatives of the founda- portion. and borrower must match the tion have been traveling the coun- Michigan Collateral Support contribution. The MEDC has try, presenting their findings to Program: Geared toward invested roughly $2.7 million, companies that have seen a drop leveraged for about $74 million business groups, nonprofit re- through 1,174 loans. source centers, newspaper editori- in the value of equipment and real estate used as collateral for loans, Investment of $37 million in al boards and state and local eco- the program supplies cash equity capital to private-equity and nomic development agencies, collateral accounts to lending mezzanine funds. including the Michigan Economic Development Corp. year and a half, from earlier-stage jobs in Michigan — he didn’t look It’s a message that’s gaining companies to a later stage,” said to the state for help. traction. Paul Brown, director of the capital “No one ever gave folks like us “There’s been a shift in our fo- markets development group at the anything,” he said. “We’ve always cus since I’ve been here, about a MEDC. kind of been out there and working Why the switch? for it. So, frankly, a lot of us don’t “It’s all about jobs,” Brown said. know what’s out there and avail- “We continue to run the programs able to us. that invest in early stage businesses Jake Sigal, who founded Fern- because we know that’s definitely dale-based Myine Electronics L.L.C. the future, but frankly, it’s those two years ago and expected to end second-stage companies that are the 2009 with $1 million to $5 million in bulk of the employers. … The fact of revenue, said access to capital is his the matter is, we have to do both, biggest problem. and we are.” Myine designs Second-stage companies require Internet radios different resources, Lange said. for the non-tech- But the business owners run their savvy, but man- companies and don’t have time to ufacturing takes attend any seminars. money up front. “Economic gardening” is anoth- “We’re too big er term that comes up a lot in the for angel in- second-stage realm. vestors, and “Stop trying to draw companies venture capital Sigal from outside and spend more time isn’t interest- trying to make companies grow,” ed,” he said. “We’re following our said Rob Fowler, president and natural growth curve, but because CEO of the Lans- we actually build products, to fund ing-based Small our working capital we have to Business Associa- work with letters of credit.” tion of Michigan. Traditionally, Sigal said, a manu- “We’re embrac- facturer could borrow money from ing a plan for the the bank to produce its products, state of Michi- paying for the last round of produc- gan to make us a tion with the proceeds of its sales. leader in eco- Sigal may not know that there’s nomic garden- an MEDC program that could help. ing.” It has a host of lending programs Fowler Fowler said that offer a deposit match or guar- that after SBAM completes its an- antee for a loan, Brown said. But nual Entrepreneurial Scorecard, getting information out to the target which gauges Michigan’s entrepre- companies is a challenge. neurial climate, the group will be- “We put a lot of resources into gin working on a policy to assist awareness, but it’s always tough be- second-stage companies. cause every dollar you put into Fowler said SBAM, along with awareness you can’t put into the the MEDC and the foundation, business,” Brown said. “But we have researched service ideas that have a good balance.” would benefit second-stage compa- Tursi said Netarx plans to in- nies. Although he wasn’t prepared vest in new practice areas and may to talk about the models, he hopes expand operations in Michigan. some will be implemented in the But “from a state perspective, I months ahead. don’t even know who I would talk But there’s another problem. to” about a tax rebate or real estate CEOs such as Tursi may not look deal, he said. to other resources for help. For the most part, he’s learned “They’re so internally focused on on the fly, getting advice and direc- their business that a lot of times it tion from peers and customers. takes a lot to get their trust,” Lange “I would say that second-stage said. “They’re moving quickly and companies have a growth curve can’t spend a lot of time on these ar- and a learning curve,” he said. eas. … These companies do not “We do business differently as a come to the table; they’re not an- $5 million company than (we) do swering the call.” as a $20 million company or a When Tursi’s company was $50 million company.” planning its expansion — a move Nancy Kaffer: (313) 446-0412, that he estimates kept about 100 [email protected] 20100118-NEWS--0011-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 4:32 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 11 Second Stage Extra No secrets Businesses find it pays to open books to employees

BY DUSTIN WALSH SPECIAL TO CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS

Private businesses have tradi- tionally operated from the top down — executives passing along only the information deemed “safe” for employee eyes. But that’s not the case for the nine companies in Zingerman’s Community of Businesses in Ann Ar- bor. Owners Ari Weinzweig and Paul Saginaw practice open-book man- agement, the business practice of sharing financial and decision- THE DETAILS making duties Not so simple: among all em- Approach takes ployees. DUSTIN WALSH/CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS more than just “Our employ- Ari Weinzweig, co-owner of Zingerman’s Community of Businesses in Ann Arbor, opening books, ees really get a got acquainted with open-book management in the mid-1990s. Page 12 chance to partici- pate in the busi- and inaccuracy. difference between them and me ness,” Weinzweig said. “They are “Most of our employees don’t was that I had all the information learning how to manage money have business and finance de- they didn’t.” and how to run a business.” grees, but they know a hell of a lot He rolled out open-book manage- It’s the employees who manage about running this business now,” ment in July 2009 and instantly be- expenses, monitor operating mar- Weinzweig said. gan seeing the financial results. gins and develop new products. Open-book management is Despite the worst sales quarter for This opens a new realm of busi- about fine-tuning the business op- the company, it still turned a solid ness transparency, one that can eration, and workers on the floor profit, he said. eliminate the “us vs. them” men- may be much more likely to see “My sales figures and incomes tality between management and wasteful spending or recognize almost don’t make sense,” Sukovic employees. poor procedures than an owner. said. “Now that everyone under- Private companies are known to Why? Because they watch it hap- stands the costs of running this hide net profits and keep books pen every day, Vander Broek said. business, (employees) have found closed to protect competitive ad- “I’m able to see how what I do vantage, said David Brophy, fi- day-to-day impacts the bigger pic- See Open, Page 12 nance professor and director of the ture,” he said. “It gets people in- Center for Venture Capital and Private volved, so we go through the ups Equity Finance at the University of and downs together.” Michigan’s Stephen M. Ross School of And when times are tough, em- Business. ployees know revenue doesn’t be- “I think it’s amazing that a com- come an executive bonus. pany is willing to do this,” he said. The nine Zingerman’s compa- “It shows they have tremendous nies reported $33.8 million in rev- confidence in their ability and enue in the past fiscal year, with have obviously learned the posi- net income of $609,000. But Dancing tive gains exceed the potential risk Sandwich Enterprises, the holding of revealing trade secrets.” company composed of In the mid-1990s, Weinzweig and Weinzweig’s and Saginaw’s Saginaw read Great Game of Busi- shares, reported a loss. ness, by the father of open-book “I know huge profits aren’t go- management, Jack Stack — CEO ing into my manager’s pockets and founder of Springfield, Mo.- while I’m out here busting my based SRC Holdings, an employee- tail,” said Elnian Gilbert, project owned remanufacturer to OEM’s manager at ZingTrain, Zingerman’s in North America. management training company. “We thought it was brilliant,” Weinzweig said. “It really fit with everything we were trying to do at Passing on the Zing Zingerman’s.” Weinzweig and Saginaw began A Zingerman’s employee be- teaching the open-book practice comes responsible for a line item through ZingTrain seminars in Growth Capital. on the company’s department op- 2004. Financial Wisdom.® erating report, tracking one partic- Pedja Sukovic, founder and CEO ular financial bearing for the fiscal of Ann Arbor- The current economic climate year. based medical isn’t easy for entrepreneurs; but the Sales, expenses, debts, payroll — device maker Xo- Hennessey Capital team is committed to the entire financial scope of each ran Technologies using our growth capital and financial business — is displayed on a Inc., also read wisdom to help businesses create positive whiteboard for all to see. Stack’s book and Each week, departments meet to learned how to cash flow, despite challenging times. discuss the previous week and implement open- Let us put the Hennessey Factor forecasts. book manage- to work for your company. Izaak Vander Broek joined ment through Zingerman’s Delicatessen six years the seminar. ago, working his way up from bus- Sukovic “I witnessed 248.658.1100 boy to front-of-the-house manager. smart and committed employees HennesseyCap.com Most recently, he was responsi- making decisions, daily, that did- ble for reporting on the costs of n’t align with the quality they mistakes at the deli, tracking the were capable of,” Sukovic said of dollar value of each botched order his 42 employees. “I realized the 20100118-NEWS--0012-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 4:31 PM Page 1

Page 12 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010 Second Stage Extra Mission Secret! There’s more to open book StageTwo Strategies Can you keep a Secret? A look at problem-solving by second-stage companies. We can. Our Trade Secret, Non- than simply opening books Compete and Unfair Competition Practice THE ALPHA GROUP OF COS. BY DUSTIN WALSH the importance of communication, attorneys are on a mission to help Location: Livonia SPECIAL TO CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS said Michael Rogers, vice president Description: Supplies engi- your business of communications for the Small Watch our live webcast neered metal washers and fasten- safeguard its from your computer! Open-book management can cre- Business Association of Michigan. er assemblies to auto and defense trade secrets. ate a network of informed and en- “The biggest challenge is help- industries. Seeking contracts in Safeguarding Your gaged employees, working togeth- ing the employees understand the In fact, we have alternative-energy industry. Market Share and er to improve business practices. impact of the data they are receiv- a three-step CEO: Nick Strumbos But it’s not a solution by itself. ing,” he said. process to Trade Secrets Founded: 1957 Open book is an approach, or ci- Weinzweig and Sukovic said a secure your Don’t be tomorrow’s Employees: 135 pher, to the riddle of empowering manager must be ready for tough headline regarding the loss Revenue: $22 million in 2009; company’s of your company’s assets employees to produce better re- questions. forecasted $30 million in 2010. assets. sults. And it’s not easy. It requires “You might not like it,” Problem to be solved: Alpha Thursday maintenance, time and fortitude. Weinzweig said, “but low-level em- Group, operating as Alpha Stamp- We are on a Zingerman’s Community of Busi- ployees are going to challenge January 28, 2010 ing Co. in 2008, sought to diversi- mission to keep nesses began practicing open-book high-level employees.” Noon to 1:00 p.m. EST fy, shifting business away from your trade management in 1994 and is still And it’s that new line of dia- the slumping auto industry. But secrets a secret. Call 1.800.847.6424 to RSVP fine-tuning the process. logue that can lead to solutions. executives hit a snag while “Open book is not an overnight Employees with financial respon- courting business from Yamaha Band-Aid,” said co-owner Ari sibility will likely develop a vested Motor Corp. USA — a manufactur- ® Weinzweig. “It’s a system, a differ- interest in business operations. Attorneys on a Mission er of motorcycles, all-terrain ve- ent way of organizing the way “Now, everybody has strong Your mission is our mission. We never lose sight of it. hicles and boats. Yamaha imme- your company does business. It’s opinions on what the company diately decided that “stamping” more than just showing your peo- should be doing,” Sukovic said. in Alpha’s name meant the com- ple some numbers.” “This is a whole new way of oper- pany was a run-of-the-mill stam- Pedja Sukovic, CEO of Xoran ating, and now I’m learning how to per, COO Chuck Dardas said. Technologies, said open-book man- constructively channel all of this “It was a real limiter for us,” A business advisory and advocacy law firm agement is about putting trust and energy from employees.” he said. power in your employees’ hands. Sam Valenti IV, owner of Ghostly 39533 Woodward Avenue, Suite 318, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 “We’re a full “If you don’t trust that your peo- International L.L.C., said it’s a com- engineering 248.646.5070 • www.mcdonaldhopkins.com ple have ideas and that they’ll be- mon misconception that open- and product Stephen M. Gross James J. Boutrous II James J. Giszczak lieve in the process, open book is book management is just about fi- development- Detroit Managing Member Co-Chairs, Trade Secret, Non-Compete and Unfair Competition Proctice not for you,” he said. nancial transparency. based manu- Offering up financial informa- “Open book is about being fo- facturer, and Chicago • Cleveland • Columbus • Detroit • West Palm Beach tion means the top execs relin- cused on building a team of own- they didn’t quish some control. For some, ers that understand the financial Automotive • Business counseling • Business restructuring • Employee benefits see that.” that’s hard to swallow. gravity of every business deci- Energy • Estate planning • Government advocacy • Healthcare Risks and “You have to let go,” Sukovic sion,” he said. “It’s easy to get Labor and employment • Litigation • Intellectual property • M & A • Real estate considerations: said, “of the idea that you’re the caught up in the hype of trans- Trade secret, non-compete and unfair competition • White collar crime Alpha risked Dardas smartest guy in the room.” parency, but this is a process that losing its manufacturing identity Open-book management stresses you have to own up to.” by removing “stamping” from its name, Dardas said. The company also feared the effect of a name Keeping it real... change on Internet searches, he said. “We were concerned with Open: Involving workers dropping ‘Stamping’ on the Inter- net,” Dardas said. “Alpha is amor- keeping it ■ From Page 11 phous on the Web.” ways to trim expenses.” Ghostly that they have at Zinger- Solution: After brainstorming, Through access to expenses, Xo- man’s: a company full of brand am- the company decided on The Al- ran employees identified more bassadors,” he said. “I want my pha Group of Cos. as its new Michigan competitively priced consulting employees to be excited about moniker. Dardas and fellow ex- and vendor services, said Jodie technology, music and this busi- ecs decided to add the tagline, Haberkorn, Xoran’s controller. ness, and feel that we’re working “An Engineering & Product De- “The biggest benefit of open toward something great.” velopment Based Manufacturer” book has been the awareness of Valenti, 30, said providing ac- to marketing materials, thwart- each employee to know all the cess and responsibility creates an ing any loss of its blue-collar im- facts of our financial situation pri- environment of trust, which is age and keeping engineering at or to making any purchasing deci- what young people are looking for the forefront of Internet search- sions,” she said. in an employer. es. “Now we grab people’s atten- I learned about InternInMichigan.com For fiscal 2009, Xoran turned “The get-quick-rich saga from tion right away (when selling) from my parents. I wanted an internship $13 million in revenue. previous generations has ended instead of spending time ex- “ “No other way of running this with a thud,” Valenti said. “The plaining that we are more than in the health industry before going business makes sense for me,” new generations want to do some- just stamping,” Dardas said. to law school. The internship I found Sukovic said. “This is one of the thing they believe in. They want to Expert opinion: Although Alpha through the site allowed me to test best things I’ve done.” work where they are treated fairly came up with its new name in run a possible profession. A company’s second stage is the and with respect.” house, many companies hire a perfect time to implement open- Ghostly generated $1 million in marketing firm to conduct a Kylie Angileri, a graduate of Denison University, book management, said Mark revenue in 2008 and expects the brand audit, said Kevin Woods, found her health policy internship through” Lange, executive director of the Cas- same from 2009. principal at Ferndale-based Dri- InternInMichigan.com sopolis-based Edward Lowe Founda- Rogers attributes the welcoming ven Solutions Inc. The company tion, a nonprofit dedicated to entre- of open-book management to the will then develop an updated To find quality interns, post preneurship and economic growth. “social networking phenomenon.” “look, feel and tone” for the your internship opportunities “The problem with second stage “People freely exchange infor- brand, he said. Alpha’s name is that the role of the owner is al- mation now and similarly expect change was the right move in a at InternInMichigan.com ways evolving,” Lange said. “These businesses to be open and up- shifting market, Woods said. “Al- organizations are pliable at this front,” he said. pha Stamping was a very defined stage, and empowering employees “If there are no secrets in a com- name,” he said. “You don’t want helps the CEO delegate and improve pany and they are up-front about to pigeonhole yourself. Your im- Real people. the company more efficiently.” how they operate, employees are age can’t be so singular and fo- Sam Valenti IV, founder and more likely to buy into the mission cused that you can’t adapt and Real opportunities. owner of Ann Arbor-based record instead of simply collecting a pay- adjust to the market landscape.” label Ghostly International L.L.C., check,” Rogers said. — Dustin Walsh said he’s implementing open-book ZingTrain will hold its next If your second-stage company has Real connections. management to his seven-employ- open-book management seminar recently made a tough business ee team after learning the system on March 22-23. The cost is $975 per decision, contact Michelle Dar- through a ZingTrain seminar. person. For more information, go wish at [email protected]. “I want the same thing for to www.zingtrain.com. 20100118-NEWS--0013-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 4:04 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 13

SPOTLIGHT ON AUTO JOBS The Detroit 3 automakers General Motors Chrysler Ford have been Macomb County’s top employers for years, although worker numbers have fluctuated and Ford Motor Co. ranks sixth this year. Here’s a look back over the years since Crain’s began tracking Macomb employers 23,770 19,400 14,907 15,000 11,390 13,100 17,463 10,467 14,182 7,560* 11,000 12,218 14,102 8,390 3,733 in 1989: 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 * Crain’s estimate CRAIN'S LIST: MACOMB COUNTY'S LARGEST EMPLOYERS Ranked by full-time employees

Full-time Full-time employees in employees in Full-time employees Company Macomb County Macomb County in Michigan Jan. Worldwide Rank Address Phone; Web site Top local executive Jan. 2010 Jan. 2009 2010 employees Jan. 2010 Type of business General Motors Co. Ed Whitacre Jr. 11,390 13,728 B 41,828 215,000 Automobile manufacturer 1. 300 Renaissance Center, Detroit 48265 chairman and CEO (313) 556-5000; www.gm.com

Chrysler Group L.L.C. Sergio Marchionne 7,560 C 8,221 19,423 NA Automobile manufacturer 2. 1000 Chrysler Drive, Auburn Hills 48326 CEO (248) 576-5741; www.chryslerllc.com

U.S. government NA 6,086 D 5,561 NA NA Federal government 3. 477 Michigan Ave., Detroit 48226 (800) 688-9889

St. John Health System Patricia Maryland 3,968 3,891 NA NA Health care system 4. 28000 Dequindre Road, Warren 48092 president and CEO (866) 501-3627; www.stjohn.org

Henry Ford Health System Nancy Schlichting 3,788 3,860 18,473 18,473 Health care system 5. 1 Ford Place, Detroit 48202 president and CEO (800) 436-7936; www.henryford.com

Ford Motor Co. Alan Mulally 3,733 4,893 NA NA Automobile manufacturer 6. 1 American Road, Dearborn 48126 president and CEO (313) 322-3000; www.thefordstory.com

Utica Community Schools Christine Johns 3,583 3,756 3,583 3,583 Public school district 7. 11303 Greendale, Sterling Heights 48312 superintendent (586) 797-1000; www.uticak12.org

General Dynamics Land Systems Mark Roualet 2,850 3,000 2,950 10,100 Designs, develops, produces, integrates and supports 8. 38500 Mound Road, Sterling Heights 48310 president armored vehicles and subsystems for America's armed (586) 825-4000; www.gdls.com services and allies

Macomb County Paul Gieleghem 2,357 2,431 NA NA County government 9. 10 N. Main St., Mt. Clemens 48043 board of (586) 469-5280; www.macombcountymi.gov commissioners chairperson Chippewa Valley Schools Mark Deldin 1,669 1,750 1,669 1,669 Public school district 10. 19120 Cass Ave., Clinton Township 48038 superintendent (586) 723-2000; www.chippewavalleyschools.org

Mt. Clemens Regional Medical Center Mark O'Halla 1,472 1,595 1,472 1,472 Health care 11. 1000 Harrington Blvd., Mt. Clemens 48043 president and CEO (586) 493-8000; www.mcrmc.org

State of Michigan Jennifer Granholm 1,380 1,186 NA NA State government 12. Cadillac Place, Detroit 48202 governor (313) 456-4400; www.michigan.gov

U.S. Postal Service Karen Schenck 1,307 1,600 C NA NA Postal service 13. 1401 W. Fort St., Detroit 48233-9998 district manager (313) 226-8607; www.usps.gov

Warren Consolidated Schools Robert Livernois 1,266 1,341 1,341 1,266 Public school district 14. 31300 Anita, Warren 48093 superintendent (586) 825-2400; www.wcskids.net

L'Anse Creuse Public Schools DiAnne Pellerin 1,233 NA 1,233 1,233 Public school district 15. 36727 Jefferson Ave., Harrison Township 48045-2917 superintendent (586) 783-6300; www.lc-ps.org

Asset Acceptance Capital Corp. Rion Needs 891 802 891 1,724 Finance 16. 28405 Van Dyke Ave., Warren 48093 president and CEO (586) 939-9600; www.assetacceptance.com

Macomb Community College James Jacobs 698 665 698 698 Education 17. 14500 E. 12 Mile Road, Warren 48088 president (586) 445-7999; www.macomb.edu

Art Van Furniture Archie Van Elslander 665 725 NA NA Retail home furnishings 18. 6500 14 Mile Road, Warren 48092 chairman (586) 939-0800; www.artvan.com Kim Yost CEO Johnson Controls Beda Bolzenius 650 560 NA NA Automotive supplier, building control systems and 19. 49200 Halyard Drive, Plymouth 48170 president, automotive facilities management (734) 254-5000; www.johnsoncontrols.com experience

TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. John Plant 541 550 3,016 57,754 Automotive supplier 20. 12025 Tech Center Drive, Livonia 48150 president and CEO (734) 855-2600; www.trwauto.com

This list of Macomb County employers encompasses companies headquartered in Washtenaw, Oakland, Wayne, Macomb or Livingston counties. Companies with headquarters elsewhere are listed with the address and top executive of their main Detroit-area office. This is not a complete listing but the most comprehensive available. Unless otherwise noted, information was provided by the companies. Number of full-time employees may include full-time equivalents. NA = not available. B Figure as of Aug. 31, 2008. C Crain's estimate. D Figure as of September 2009. LIST RESEARCHED BY ANNE MARKS 20100118-NEWS--0014-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 4:08 PM Page 1

Page 14 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010

CareerWorks online Visit www.crainsdetroit.com /careerworks to search for jobs, post a résumé or find talent.

EMPLOYMENT CALENDAR Help for LTU hosts ‘Recovery Starts gies with some tips from the CareerTransition pros. Here’ receptions, workshops Ⅲ “Using Social Media in a Job Name: Bill Wahl, 58. Education: Bachelor’s degree in manage- job seekers Lawrence Technological Universi- Search,” Feb. 9 at 11 a.m. ty in Southfield has planned four Learn about interactive sites ment from Oakland University, 1984. Last career: areerWorks is a weekly Career Networking Receptions and how to build your network Wahl spent more than 30 years online. working in manufacturing. He worked for the collection of advertis- for displaced workers with col- same company, Thunderline, which later be- C ing, news and informa- lege degrees, not limited only to came Creative Engineered Products. He began tion geared toward readers in Lawrence Tech students and Career expo in Lake Orion alumni. his career as a supervisor and spent most of career transition or looking The upcoming reception is Hired On The Spot, the United his time as a manufacturing manager, then as for new jobs. Jan. 28. Check-in begins at 4:30 Auto Workers and the Lake Orion a plant manager. Included in our coverage: p.m., followed by a brief presen- Chamber of Commerce are hosting New career: Co-owner of the Relax the Back “CareerTransition,” high- tation in Cafe Lawrence at 5 p.m. a career expo Jan. 27, noon-5 p.m. Bill Wahl franchise in Bloomfield Township. Relax the at the UAW Local 5960 Hall, 180 lighting a person who has and the networking reception at Former career: Back also has stores in Shelby Township and E. Silverbell Road, Lake Orion. made a successful leap from 5:30 p.m. The free receptions are Management Northville. The stores help customers seeking Companies with multiple job one profession to another; a designed to provide employers positions in relief and prevention of back and neck pain, openings are scheduled. There manufacturing calendar of job- and training- and job seekers with face-to-face offer posture and back-support products and also will be résumé reviews and a New career: related events; and news sto- interaction in a professional en- self-care solutions. fashion consultant. Co-owner of Relax ries affecting the job market. vironment. Why did you decide to change careers: “The Participants are asked to pre- For more information and to the Back franchise CareerWorks is also online. unfortunate demise of CEP really forced my register at www.ltu.edu register, visit www. hand. A few months prior to the company’s On our Web site, at /recovery/receptions.asp. myfoxdetroit.com and click on bankruptcy, I knew that I wanted another ca- www.crainsdetroit.com/ LTU and The Ayers Group, a divi- the Job Shop. reer opportunity and something that was out careerworks, you can post an sion of Kelly Services, will also offer anonymous résumé and at- free workshops for displaced of the automotive industry. This dramatic tract employers. You can workers. All workshops will be CAREER CALENDAR GUIDELINES change in my life and career was honestly the scan the newest jobs from our held in S100 (auditorium), College best thing that happened to me.” Hosting a job fair, holding a How you made the transition: area or all of Michigan. You of Arts and Sciences building: “After CEP shut seminar on starting a business down in January 2007, I had a conversation can set up e-mail alerts so Ⅲ “Networking for Success,” or résumé writing, or helping job with my now-co-owner, Gabe Hertz. His job as whenever a job that interests Jan. 26 at 11 a.m. seekers in some other way? Learn how to make the most of a mortgage executive really wasn’t satisfying you is posted, you’ll know E-mail announcements to Gary networking opportunities. Un- for him, either. He had heard of Relax the about it. Piatek at [email protected] or derstanding your strengths, de- Jeff Johnston at Back and its potential, and by the summer of Employers can post jobs or veloping a network and building [email protected]. Events 2007 we had done our due diligence about the search résumés for talent relationships are topics. should be focused on helping a company and invested in a franchise.” they seek. Ⅲ “Proven Job Search Strate- job seeker find employment and Obstacles overcome: “In my previous job, I gies,” Feb. 2 at 11 a.m. be open to the public or to alumni of a college. had always understood the concept of er- Refresh your job search strate- gonomics and how it interacted with the man- ufacturing process. But I had a real lack of ex- perience in retail. Luckily, Relax the Back has a great franchisee training program, and I was able to learn about the store and the CAREER MOVES benefits of the products we carry rather quickly. … Another obstacle was the fact that FINANCE FINANCE we opened our store in May 2008 … during one of the worst economic time periods that I CEO Wanted for Credit Card Processing Company Seeking experienced professional with can remember. It was not easy at first.” strong market and operational knowledge. Advice for others: “Don’t be afraid to take [email protected] risks and reinvent yourself in a down econo- MANAGEMENT my, but make sure you do your homework DISPLACED EXECUTIVES, CPAS AND BUSINESS OWNERS first. I truly believe in Relax the Back, its This career could be ideal for you if you have a reputation of integrity, the habit of winning, Director of Purchasing products and the benefits they bring to the and a large network of contacts that you are willing to call on. people who are in need of back, neck and Eastern Michigan University is accepting Michigan Financial Companies offers an excellent second career opportunity. Our applications for the position of Director of stress relief. It was that belief that is helping representatives can earn $100,000 - 200,000 in annual commissions with some earning Purchasing. The Director is responsible us be as successful as we are in a down econo- $300,000 +. for directing and coordinating the procurement of supplies, materials, my. We offer some of the top products in their equipment and services; managing Michigan Financial Companies was selected in 2008 as the Number 1 small company agreements and contracts; development respective categories: executive office chairs, workplace in Michigan. We have a very strong presence in Southeast Michigan, and more and oversight of policies and procedures ergonomic beds, etc. And if you can provide than $600 million in assets under management. We work with some of the nation’s largest governing purchasing activities; high-quality items to your customers, they insurers and asset managers. management of surplus property; oversight of mailroom operations; oversight of will still spend for that superior product and central receiving; and oversight of With us, you will receive exceptional training and market support. You will run your own telecommunications for the University. you will succeed. business without risking your own capital. Plus, we have a substantial benefit package “Referrals are also key. A third-party veri- including pension and matching 401(k). To learn more about the required qualifications for this position and EMU, as fier of the benefits that we bring is invaluable. If interested, fax or e-mail your resume or letter of interest to: well as to apply for the position online, go I can’t begin to tell you how many former cus- to: http://www.emich.edu/jobs/. Please Nick Valenti, President/CEO reference Job Posting #APBF1001 and tomers are sharing their stories with others, Fax: (248) 827-7378, e-mail: [email protected] include a cover letter, a detailed resume and their friends are coming into the store for Equal Opportunity Employer M/F outlining qualifications and related work experience, and contact information for at the first time, along with area doctors and least three professional references. massage therapists, etc. Call Us For Personalized EMU is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative “Lastly, all three stores are firm believers Action Employer and Educator that is in treating a customer the way I would want Service: (313) 446-6068 strongly committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. The University to be treated, always trying to match their actively encourages applications from needs with our product solutions. This is our FAX: (313) 446-1757 women, persons of color, and applicants E-MAIL: [email protected] with disabilities, veterans, and members of mantra at all locations and rules every busi- other under-represented groups. ness should follow.” INTERNET: www.crainsdetroit.com/section/classifieds If you have made a similar change in your Call or email today for information career or know of someone who has made an See on a custom advertising plan! interesting career transition, contact Andy Crainsdetroit.com/Section/Classifieds Chapelle, managing editor at Crain’s Detroit [email protected] for more classified advertisements 313.446.6068 Business, at [email protected]. 20100118-NEWS--0015-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 5:11 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 15

Celebrates years in 2010 News you can trust. Leadership you can count on. PEOPLE AUTOMOTIVE loch and Joseph Sgori to partner, De- troit, from attorney, and Vincent Kue- Joseph LaRussa IN THE SPOTLIGHT bler and Kristina Maynard to partner, to customer qual- The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair Inc. Bloomfield Hills, from attorney. ity project man- has named ager, Chrysler Maureen Riley MARKETING Group L.L.C., as executive Howard Krugel to Auburn Hills, director, from electronics vice president of following a sales and market- project manager, national ing, Dietz Trott Visteon Corp., search. L.L.C., Farming- Van Buren Town- Riley, 55, had ton Hills, from di- ship. rector of sales and LaRussa been special events director marketing; also, CONSULTING for the Kevin Blazaitis to Peter King to vice president, Blue University sales and market- Since February 1985, Ocean Advisors, Novi, from vice presi- Riley Cultural Center ing manager, dent of business development, ICMS Association, which produces the from sales coordi- Crain’s Detroit Business has shared nator. Marketing Co., Troy. Detroit Festival of the Arts and Noel Krugel Night in . scores of stories with our readers. NONPROFITS EDUCATION She succeeds Shary Brown, who Now it’s time to share yours. Jayne Miller to director of Huron-Clin- Carl Powell to chief information offi- had led the nonprofit festival for ton Metroparks, Huron-Clinton Metro- cer, Eastern Michigan University, Yp- 11 years before her Sept. 30, 2009, retirement. politan Authority, Brighton, from com- silanti, from vice president and chief munity services administrator, city of information officer, Metropolitan Riley earned a Bachelor of Fine Ann Arbor. Crain’s Detroit Business State College of Denver. Arts degree in stage management How has made a Donna Murray to director of Metro De- at the University of Wisconsin- troit Partnership, Michigan Nonprofit difference in your career or enterprise? FINANCE Milwaukee and is working on an Association, Detroit, from vice presi- E-mail us your story or post it on crainsdetroit.com and Ron DiCicco to MBA at Wayne State University. dent and Community Reinvestment managing direc- Act state director, Charter One Bank, we’ll include the best stories in our 25th Anniversary tor of retail bank- Inc., West Bloomfield Township, from Detroit. ing, Paramount executive chef, Angelina Italian Bistro, Edition on May 3. Bancorp Inc., Detroit. RETAIL Farmington Steve Berlow to Have our publication, Web site or events helped you to: Hills, from re- LAW general manager N Make a business connection? gional president, Michelle Harrell to of The Mall at Par- NInnovate a new idea for your business? Citizens Bancorp shareholder and tridge Creek, NSign a new client? Inc., Farmington managing share- Taubman Centers Hills. holder of general Inc., Clinton NPartner with another company? DiCicco Juergen Rochert and complex litiga- Township, from to director of tion group, interim general BONUS POINTS: Share pictures of your oldest or dog-eared Daimler Truck Maddin, Hauser, manager of Fair copies of Crain’s Financial USA, Wartell, Roth & Oaks Mall, Fair- DCFS USA L.L.C., Heller P.C., South- fax, Va. Farmington field, from senior Berlow EXTRA CREDIT: Send us a video about how you’ve come Hills, from man- litigation associ- SUPPLIERS Crain’s aging director of ate. to rely on or what it means to you and we’ll post it Daimler Finan- Harrell Donald Perfect to online for you. cial Services, general manager, Mexico City; and Walsh Precision Post directly at www.crainsdetroit.com/yourstory. Dietmer Exler to Products Co., director of Mer- South Lyon, from Send questions or videos to Kim Winkler at 313-446-1652 Rochert cedes-Benz Fi- manufacturing or contact her by e-mail at [email protected] nancial, from director of operations, manager, H&H Mercedes-Benz Bank AG, Stuttgart, Tool Inc., Lapeer. Germany. Chris Sing to director, Wright Griffin SERVICES Perfect Davis and Co. CPAs L.L.C., Ann Arbor, Tino Maggio to from manager of accounting and au- manager of ad- diting service. Summerville Winter vanced adult T.L. Summerville, S. Christopher Win- dance instruc- HEALTH CARE ter and Michael Wippler, all elected to tion, Fred Astaire Raymond Fabius to chief medical offi- membership, Dykema Gossett Dance UPCOMING PARTNER EVENTS cer, Thomson Reuters, Ann Arbor, P.L.L.C., Detroit, from litigation attor- Studio–Bloom- from strategic adviser to the president ney; also, Phyllis Adams to health care field Hills L.L.C., Crain’s partners with a variety of organizations of health and wellness division, Wal- practice group leader, Ann Arbor, re- Bloomfield Hills, on events and special subscription offers greens Co., Conshohocken, Pa. maining member. from manager, Arthur Murray for their members. Please visit their Web sites below. Ray Sohn to direc- Dance Studio, tor of individual Maggio Bloomfield Hills. markets, Priority Growing Sustanable Communities: Health, Farming- Urban Farming ton Hills, from di- PEOPLE GUIDELINES rector of individ- Thur., Feb. 18.....Film Screenings ual sales, Blue Announcements are limited to Fri., Feb. 19...... One-day Summit, and Cross Blue Shield management positions. Nonprofit of Michigan, De- and industry group board ...... roundtable discussions troit. appointments can be found at University of Michigan – Dearborn Hazem Barghouty www.crainsdetroit.com. Send www.umd.umich.edu/urbanfarming to associate vice submissions to Departments, Sohn president of IT, Hoeg Keller Crain’s Detroit Business, 1155 support and operations, Health Al- Gratiot Ave., Detroit, MI 48207- Selling to the State: Buy Michigan First Richard Hoeg to liance Plan of Michigan, Detroit, from 2997, or send e-mail to •”Contracting 101” with the State of Michigan partner, Honig- senior IT manager, American Axle & [email protected]. •Services provided by PTACs of Michigan Manufacturing Inc., Detroit. man Miller Schwartz and Releases must contain the person’s Feb. 4 • 10 am - 11:30 am • Troy Jerome Espy to director of external af- Cohn L.L.P., Ann name, new title, company, city in Seminar is free, reservations are mandatory fairs, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michi- Arbor, from attor- which the person will work, former For this class ONLY, register at gan, Detroit, from press secretary, De- ney; also, Erica title, former company (if not troit Medical Center, Detroit. http://ptacofsc.ecenterdirect.com Keller, Adam promoted from within) and former Kochenderfer, city in which the person worked. HOSPITALITY Daniel Linna, Tara Photos are welcome, but we cannot Visit crainsdetroit.com/events for more information Joel Vassallo to executive chef, Jewish Mahoney, guarantee they will be used. on Crain’s 2010 upcoming events Senior Life of Metropolitan Detroit Kochenderfer Meghan McCul- 20100118-NEWS--0016-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/14/2010 4:13 PM Page 1

Page 16 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010

BUSINESS DIARY CALENDAR

ACQUISITIONS ing consultant. vices and CertainTeed Corp., Valley Forge, Pa., installed EnerGen, a so- TUESDAY Becton Dickinson and Co., Franklin Triumph Pharmaceuticals, Redford CEO OF CIGNA TO ADDRESS lar roof system on the residence of Lakes, N.J., has signed an agreement Township, has selected Redford Town- JAN. 19 Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to acquire HandyLab Inc., Ann Arbor, ship-based Western Creative as its DETROIT ECONOMIC CLUB agency of record. Also, the Manufac- in Lansing. Detroit Economic Club Meeting: The which develops and manufactures Big Four. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. With David Cordani, molecular diagnostic assays and au- turers’ Agents National Association, The Myasthenia Gravis Association, Paul Gieleghem, chairman, Macomb president and tomation platforms. Redford Township, has selected West- Warren, has become a community ern Creative to redesign and update County Commis- CEO of CareTech Solutions Inc., Troy, an in- partner of the Leave a Legacy pro- its monthly industry publication, gram of the Planned Giving Round- sion; L. Brooks Bloomfield, formation-technology and Web prod- Agency Sales. Patterson, Oak- Conn.-based ucts and services provider for hospi- table of Southeast Michigan, Meta- WhereToFindCare.com L.L.C., Ypsilan- mora. land County exec- health service tals and health systems, has reached utive; Robert Fi- company Cigna agreement in principle to acquire ti, an improvement consulting and In- ImageSoft Inc., Southfield, which In- cano, Wayne teractive Global Communications Net- ternet marketing firm for health care manages digital content, has been se- Corp., will County executive; work, Easton, Pa., a builder and man- providers, has signed an agreement to lected by the Michigan Professional address the and Dave Bing, ager of hospital Web sites. provide patient satisfaction services Insurance Exchange, Grand Rapids, Detroit to Skin MD, Orland Park, Ill. mayor of Detroit. Economic Club DCP Midstream Partners L.P., Denver, to handle the organization’s docu- , Bingham Farms, a technol- Cobo Center, De- Thursday. Colo., has acquired natural gas gath- Qualitech ment management and to create a Cordani ogy integrator and software reseller, troit. $45 mem- ering and treating assets from Mich- custom work flow for improving its He will discuss was selected by Bluerock Real Estate, bers, $55 guests, Con Pipeline Co., a subsidiary of DTE internal processes. Patterson the practical side of improving Southfield, a property-management $75 nonmembers. Energy Co., Detroit. SolidThinking Inc., Troy, a global in- health and performance for company, to manage its New York of- Contact: Jessica Wayland, (313) 963- dustrial design/styling software com- individuals and businesses and Syncreon, Auburn Hills, a provider of fice by overseeing technology opera- 8547; e-mail [email protected]; pany, has signed Delineate Pty Ltd., how to lower health costs. integrated logistics and supply-chain tions and network security. Web site: www.econclub.org. services, has acquired NAL Worldwide Essendon, Victoria, Australia, to The meeting, at the Townsend Kessler and Associates P.C. CPAs, Holdings Inc., Addison, Ill., a third- market, sell and support SolidThink- Hotel in Birmingham, runs 11:30 Farmington Hills, has formed an af- party logistics and supply-chain ser- ing product design tool in Australia filiation with Michigan Financial a.m.-1:30 p.m. Admission is $45 vices company. and New Zealand. Cos., Farmington Hills, to provide in- WEDNESDAY for members, $55 for guests and dividual and business financial plan- Yaldo Eye Centers, Bloomfield Hills, $75 for nonmembers. CONTRACTS ning services to its clients under the has named Berline, Bloomfield Hills, JAN. 20 More information is available at its advertising agency of record. Walbridge, Detroit, has been selected name Kessler Wealth Management Posterous: A Cool New Tool for Devel- (313) 963-8574, at L.L.C. by Eastern Michigan University, Ypsi- Schechter Benefits Advisors, Birm- oping Your Personal Brand. 11:30 a.m.- [email protected], or at ingham, has been selected by Big lanti, as construction manager for the The Automotive Industry Action 1 p.m. Lunch Ann Arbor Marketing. www.econclub.org Communications Inc., Ferndale, a renovation and construction of its Group, Southfield, has selected Auto- With Deb Nystrom, Reveln Consult- Pray-Harrold Building. health care relationship marketing Com Associates, Bloomfield Hills, as ing. Includes a look at marketing for Homeownership and Housing Finance its public-relations agency of record. and performance agency, to manage LandArc, Auburn Hills, a property- independents, consultants, and small- in America. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. all aspects of its employee benefits Jan. 26. Detroit Economic Club. With management firm, has been retained Energy Conversion Devices Inc., to medium-sized business. Conor programs. Ed Haldeman, CEO, Freddie Mac. by Pulte Homes Inc., Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, has been contracted O’Neill’s, Ann Arbor. Suggested dona- Westin Southfield. $45 members, $55 to manage 19 residential communities by Austin Energy to provide Uni-Solar Aristeo Construction, Livonia, was tion $3. Lunch discounted to $10 for in Florida. laminates that will be used to power a awarded Phase II of the Meadow Lake guests of members, $75 nonmembers. LA2M. Contact: Derek Mehraban, Contact: (313) 963-8547; e-mail: Giffels-Webster Engineers, Rochester 136-kW solar photovoltaic rooftop Wind Park by Horizon Wind Energy, (734) 272-4698; e-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]; Web site: Hills, a civil engineering and survey- system at the Austin Water Utility’s White County, Ind. Aristeo is the bal- Web site: www.la2m.org. www.econclub.org. ing firm, has won a contract to serve Glen Bell Service Center in Austin, ance of plant contractor on site re- as Washington Township’s engineer- Texas. Also: Energy Conversion De- sponsible for road and foundation construction, turbine erection, Once Upon the 21st Century. 8-9:30 How to Write a Successful Business restoration and road repairs. a.m. Adcraft Club of Detroit. With Plan. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 27. Ser- Marine Pollution Control Corp., De- Watts Wacker, CEO, FirstMatter vice Corps of Retired Executives De- troit, has been awarded a research L.L.C. Detroit Athletic Club, Detroit. troit. Attendees learn what is required and development contract by the Unit- $25 members, $35 non-members, $20 for their business plan for the market- MARKET PLACE ed States Coast Guard, Washington, junior members (under age 25), $15 ing, management and financial sec- D.C., to develop a proof of concept so- students with student I.D. Contact: tions. Southfield Public Library. $45. lution and a final design for a com- (313) 872-7850; Web site: Contact: (313) 226-7947; detscore@sbc- global.net; www.scoredetroit.org. ANNOUNCEMENTS & BUSINESS & plete system for the recovery of heavy www.adcraft.org. SERVICES INVESTMENTS oil on the sea floor. Influential Amerigon Inc., Northville, a thermo- Understanding the Language of Ac- Women Series. BUILDING MAINTENANCE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES electric technologies product devel- counting. 8:30 a.m.-noon. Service oper and marketer, has been con- 7:30-9 a.m. Feb. 4. Corps of Retired Executives Detroit. The Community Certified Minority Company looking for growth tracted by Nissan North America Inc., This workshop compares financial opportunities by forming Joint Ventures, Strategic Smyrna, Tenn., to provide climate House, Raymond statements for two businesses to show James and Alliances and/or Partnerships with Non-Minority control seat systems as an option for how to create and monitor an effective Associates. With the front seats of the 2010 Infiniti M45 firms both locally, nationally and globally. financial strategy. Michigan Business Kym Worthy, sedan and its Japanese counterpart, Company currently has vendor codes with Toyota, and Professional Association, War- Wayne County the Nissan Fuga. Coke, etc. Please forward any inquires to ren. $55. Contact: (313) 226-7947; e-mail: prosecutor. The [email protected] [email protected]; Web site: Community MOVES www.scoredetroit.org. House, Birming- Migun Pain Center from West Worthy ham. $15 advance, BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Bloomfield Township to 725 S. Adams $18 at the door. Contact: (248) 644-5832; Road, Suite 100, Birmingham. e-mail: [email protected]; Trusted Advisors Telephone: (248) 203-7744. Web site: THURSDAY Web site: www.communityhouse.com. migunhealth.com. Revenue Sharing JAN. 21 Blue Ocean Advisors from Farming- Livingston Economic Club Luncheon An established (11 years) and principled Professional Employer Organization (PEO), which provides ton Hills to 41800 W. 11 Mile Road, Turn Your Conversations from Battle- Series. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 9. With Human Resource Management services on an outsourced basis to the small and mid-sized busi- Suite 204, Novi. Telephone: (248) 855- fields to Playgrounds. 9 a.m.-noon. Carl Camden, president and CEO, Kel- ness sector, is seeking to institute an integrated alliance to promote a reciprocal trade relationship 2600. NAWBO. With Elisabeth Garbeil, busi- ly Services Inc. Tickets must be pur- with Insurance Brokers, CPAs, Management Consultants, and various B2B Sales Professio- ness coach, EFG Consulting L.L.C. chased by Feb. 5. Cleary University, Howell. $60. Contact: (517) 548-3670, nals. This PEO has created a successful and unique footprint that has contributed to high client NEW PRODUCTS Learn how to get off the battleground retention. The ultimate goal of this arrangement is to complement your existing business service ext. 5505; e-mail: [email protected]; Web of warring messages and into the play- offerings and leverage areas of mutually beneficial interests. Gale, Farmington Hills, has launched site: www.livingstoneconomicclub. the AccessMyLibrary mobile applica- ground approach of a learning conver- org. ¾ Compensation will be paid monthly on a 100% residual basis; tion for the iPhone. Web site: sation. RSVP by Jan. 20. Comfort ¾ Confidentiality of current client base and commissions safeguarded; www.accessmylibrary.com. Suites, Southfield. $25 members, $35 ¾ Opportunity to broaden existing service offering; nonmembers. Contact: (313) 961-4748; AVL, Plymouth, launched Bobcat 1.2, CALENDAR GUIDELINES ¾ Publicize and endorse business partners to foster and develop ancillary revenue sources Web site: www.nawbogdc.org. the latest version of its engine appli- If you want to ensure listing online Interested parties please contact business principle, David Otto, at [email protected] to schedule a cations testing software and hard- and be considered for print meeting to further discuss this opportunity. ware package, and Lynx, the battery publication in Crain’s Detroit testing version. Web site: Business, please use the online www.avl.com. COMING EVENTS calendar listings section of Electric Vehicles, the Smart Grid and www.crainsdetroit.com. Here’s DIARY GUIDELINES You. 5-8 p.m. Jan. 26. Marketing and how to submit your events: Sales Executives From the Crain’s home page, click Send news releases for Business of Detroit. With “Detroit Events” in the red bar Diary to Departments, Crain’s Keith Cooley, pres- near the top of the page. Then, Detroit Business, 1155 Gratiot ident and CEO, click “Submit Your Entries” from Ave., Detroit, MI 48207-2997 or NextEnergy. Met- the drop-down menu that will send e-mail to cdbdepartments@ ropolitan Hotel, appear and you’ll be taken to our crain.com. Use any Business Diary Troy. $45 mem- online submission form. Fill out item as a model for your release, bers, $60 nonmem- the form as instructed, and then and look for the appropriate bers, $360 mem- click the “Submit event” button at category. Without complete ber’s table of eight, the bottom of the page. That’s all information, your item will not run. $480 nonmember’s there is to it. Photos are welcome, but we Cooley table of eight. Con- More Calendar items can be found cannot guarantee they will be tact: (248) 643-6590; Web site: on the Web at used. www.msedetroit.org. www.crainsdetroit.com. 20100118-NEWS--0017-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 3:48 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 17 Panel proposes $1.5B in state savings LANSING — Two com- partner at Rockbridge savings opportunities and penal- scheduled later this month to pub- And he has several speaking en- missions, two reports and Growth Equity L.L.C. in ties for reduced service levels,” the licly discuss those findings. gagements on the topic. lots of money at stake for Capitol Livonia. report said. The panel, charged with deter- “I’ll be out there stumping, to state and local govern- Briefings For example, one con- The commission calls for the mining the cost of complying with make sure it doesn’t just become a ments. troversial recommenda- state to take a needs-based ap- mandates imposed by the state on shelf report,” he said. So what happens next? tion to restructure state proach and conduct a five-year local units of government, identi- Both House Speaker revenue sharing is to tie workforce supply and demand fied more than $2.2 billion in un- Andy Dillon, D-Redford state funding distribu- forecast then use a targeted volun- derfunding posed by a selected Short takes Township, and Senate tion to specific services tary separation program to adjust group of mandates. Ⅲ The Michigan Public Service Majority Leader Mike rendered by local gov- the size of the workforce. The commission said in its re- Commission authorized a nearly Bishop, R-Rochester, are ernment rather than In some areas of state govern- port that its findings “paint a stark $217.4 million rate increase for De- expressing interest in the providing unrestricted ment, such as corrections, some of picture of noncompliance” with re- troit Edison Co., which is less than findings of the Legislative allocations. the panel’s recommendations have quirements under the 1978 the $378 million the company origi- Commission on Government Amy Lane Some recommenda- been addressed or are part of cur- Headlee amendment. nally sought, but also directed it to Efficiency and the Legisla- tions could come to light rent discussions. The amendment, among other refund a $62.6 million portion of tive Commission on Statutory Man- as business leaders press lawmak- Prokop said the state’s continu- things, prevents the state from im- higher rates that Edison first put dates — two panels created in 2007 ers for budget reforms. ing budget crisis and this year’s posing new mandates on local gov- in place this summer. that wrapped up work late last For example, while the statewide elections could move ideas to the ernments without providing fund- Ⅲ The Michigan Economic Growth year and have issued final reports CEO group Business Leaders for forefront. ing to meet them. Authority OK’d a tax-credit package and recommendations. Michigan last week called for a 5 Dillon, in a statement, said he’d The commission’s recommenda- worth up to $188 million to bring The government efficiency com- percent to 10 percent reduction in like to tackle many of the recom- tions include use of a “fiscal note” advanced lithium-ion battery pack mission examined every area of the state workforce (see story, page mendations in fiscal 2011 budget process during legislative debate. assembly for Ford Motor Co.’s next- the state budget and presented rec- 3), the efficiency commission says work and said reforming state gov- If bills require local units to pro- generation hybrid and plug-in hy- ommendations that could save the the state needs to be strategic in ernment is a top priority. Both Dil- vide activities and services that brid vehicles to Michigan. state $1.5 billion annually. workforce planning. lon and Senate Republicans are entail new costs, accompanying Ⅲ State revenue is expected to It examines corrections, local Its report cites an 11,300-person, looking at health care reforms. bills to provide funding would grow marginally in the next fiscal government and revenue sharing, 18 percent reduction in state work- Matt Marsden, Bishop’s press have to be developed and passed. year, but not enough to overtake Medicaid, higher education and K- force between 2001 and 2008 secretary, said Senate Republicans Bills containing unfunded man- the loss of federal stimulus money 12 education, personnel practices, achieved through attrition and are scheduled this week to unveil dates would have no effect. and spending pressures that could information technology, purchas- early retirement incentives, other government restructuring Oakland County deputy county contribute to a budget shortfall of ing, public employee health bene- “rather than planned reductions reforms, and “many of the things executive Robert Daddow, co- more than $1.7 billion, according fits and other areas. in the lowest risk areas.” that are outlined in the govern- chairman of the commission, said to estimates by the House Fiscal “The overarching theme is that “In 2008, the annual savings was ment efficiency report will be in- he hopes legislative leaders adopt Agency, Senate Fiscal Agency and we need to rethink how things are $602 million in salaries. While sig- cluded in the reform package.” the report’s proposed legislation the Granholm administration. done,” said Kevin Prokop, co- nificant, the benefits of the work- He said Bishop and members of that would enact recommenda- Amy Lane: (517) 371-5355, chairman of the commission and force reductions were offset by lost the mandates commission are tions. [email protected] REAL ESTATE BRIEFLY INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY INVESTMENT PROPERTY maining foundry operations, a common stock at $5 a share. The Dynamic Computer Corp. Property 20 cents on the dollar company official said. stock opened Jan. 7 at $1.47. AVAILABLE NOW reports revenue of $22.7M — Automotive News Last January the company • Residential lots, 11 for $165,000, Washington 4,000 to 100,000 sq. ft. Township, W/S. raised $3.5 million through the Farmington Hills-based Dynamic Also 10,000 & 25,000 sq. ft. • Fast food site on I-94, south of 21 Mile, $550K, sale of Series A preferred stock, 4.25 acres. Computer Corp., a privately held Free Standing Bldgs w/truckwells. Crittenton opens medical and in October it closed on a • Waterford, 50,000 sq ft bldg, $8 sq ft, RFID and IT systems integrator, 1 Mile from Metro Airport $1 million sale of Series B pre- 4% financing. reported Thursday that it had a building in Washington Township REA CONSTRUCTION • Condo lots, Chesterfield, $2,000 each (120) ferred stock. boom year in 2009 despite the local Bill McMachen -- [email protected] Crittenton Hospital Medical Center “We are greatly heartened and (734) 946-8730 economy. 586-915-4441 in Rochester has opened a 20,000- gratified by the enthusiastic local Also Heavy Industrial The company said it had record square-foot medical office building support we have received from in- Land Available revenue of more than $22.7 mil- OFFICE BUILDING in Washington Township. vestors and the continued confi- lion, up 24 percent from 2008 rev- www.reaconstruction.net The Crittenton Medical Plaza, dence in the prospects of Commu- enue of $18.3 million. FOR SALE 57850 Van Dyke St., features an ur- nity Central Bank,” President and The company serves the aero- gent care center, an outpatient lab- CEO David Widlak said in a press space, health care, defense and oratory blood drawing station, a release. pharmaceutical industries, with sleep center and a clinic for outpa- — Tom Henderson aerospace a big driver for its 2009 tient physical therapy. 367,000 SQ. FT. AVAILABLE gains. It also includes offices for cardi- 54,132 SQ. FT. OFFICE BUILDING The company was founded in ologists, internists and pulmonolo- Easily Accessible  Low Rates  Rail  On-site Mgmt ROCHESTER HILLS, MI 1979. Exterior Storage  www.waretechindustrialpark.com gists. The total cost of the project CATELLUS GROUP, LLC 810-695-7700 *Suited For Office or Medical — Tom Henderson was unavailable. *Close to Crittenton Hospital — Jay Greene BANKRUPTCIES *Underground Parking Garage OFFICE BUILDING *Priced to Sell!!! Potato chips at Wings games The following businesses filed for Southfield’s Café Kabob signs Chapter 7 or 11 protection in U.S. St. Clair Shores Beauty Salon for Sale to be Better Made On Jefferson, near 12 Mile Road Bankruptcy Court in Detroit Jan. 8-14. Beautiful beauty salon and investment property For More Information Call: Better Made Snack Foods Inc. will 10-year Campus Martius lease Under Chapter 11, a company files for Excellent Price -- LaHood Realty 313.885.5950 Mason L. Capitani or Gary P. Grochowski provide potato chips sold at Detroit Southfield-based Café Kabob reorganization. Chapter 7 involves to- 248-637-9700 tal liquidation. www.Lmcap.com Red Wings home games and other Mediterranean Grille and Catering Compass Group Inc., 401 S. Old Wood- Call Us For Personalized events at Joe Louis Arena. Better signed a 10-year lease on a 2,400- ward Ave., Suite 310, Birmingham, Service: (313) 446-6068 Made will be sold at concession square-foot space at 119 Monroe St. voluntary Chapter 7. Assets: $5,743; li- WAREHOUSE STORAGE SPACE stands and in suites, under a three- in Campus Martius. The location abilities: $490,773. year deal. CLOSING TIMES: Monday 3 p.m., WAREHOUSE SPACE FOR LEASE is set to open this spring. MAA Ventures Inc., 30715 W. 12 Mile one week prior to publication date. — Nathan Skid — Nathan Skid Road, Farmington Hills, voluntary Please call us for holiday closing times. 9,000 to 30,000 sq ft., 24 ft ceilings Chapter 11. Assets and liabilities not available. FAX: (313) 446-1757 Drive in doors, Truck docks. $2.00 sq ft/NNN Former Troy-based Community Central Bank Pembroke Group Inc., aka Compass E-MAIL: [email protected] Centrally located off I-75/12 Mile Road Group Ltd., 401 S. Old Woodward Ave. INTERNET: Ernie -- 248-840-6081 company liquidating sells $2.7 million in stock Suite 310, Birmingham, voluntary www.crainsdetroit.com/section/classifieds Intermet Corp., formerly based in Mt. Clemens-based Community Chapter 7. Assets: $28,349; liabilities: $922,138. Confidential Reply Boxes Available WATERFRONT PROPERTY Troy but now based in Fort Worth, Central Bank Corp. (Nasdaq: CCBD) RT Services L.L.C., 31093 Schoolcraft Texas, is liquidating, Automotive said Jan. 7 it has sold $2.7 million PAYMENT: All classified ads must be Road, Livonia, voluntary Chapter 11. prepaid. Checks, money order or News has reported. of Series B convertible preferred Assets: $324,563; liabilities: $1,043,488. Crain’s credit approval accepted. Elite Custom Home The company, once one of the stock in a private deal with local Trimark Development L.L.C., 22580 Credit cards accepted. world’s largest independent mak- investors. Telegraph Road, Southfield, voluntary Anchor Bay Lakefront ers of automotive castings, has Each share has a 10-year war- Chapter 11. Assets and liabilities not See Details at: ceased operations at two Virginia rant that allows holders to pur- available. Crainsdetroit.com/Section/Classifieds anchorbaywaterfront.com metal-casting plants, its last re- chase 20 shares of the company’s — Compiled by Dustin Walsh for more classified advertisements 20100118-NEWS--0018-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 2:04 PM Page 1

Page 18 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010 Wind Point Partners closes Southfield HQ

BY TOM HENDERSON rumors in the local investment CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS community that Wind Point was pulling out of Michigan, TenBroek Wind Point Partners, a Chicago- told Crain’s those rumors weren’t based private-equity firm that ex- true. panded its headquarters to South- “We have no plans to shut our field with much fanfare in 1997, Michigan office,” he said then. A Window to the World has quietly closed down its Michi- “There tends to be more move- gan operations. ment from Michigan to Illinois The firm didn’t renew a lease than the other direction, but we’ve that ran out at the end of 2009. It got a number of professionals and had been winding down opera- our entire back office that are very OPEN HOUSE tions here and employed about 10 happy in Michigan.” when the office closed. Michigan companies Wind SUNDAY, JANUARY 24, 2010 - 1-3 p.m. Managing director Jim Ten- Point invested in include Ann Ar- Broek confirmed that the South- bor-based Aastrom Biosciences Inc., New Infant/Toddler Program! field office has closed but said he now publicly traded; Hamtramck- couldn’t comment. based LDMI Telecommunications Inc., Gov. John Engler lured Wind which was later sold at a handy Positive Coaching Alliance Workshops Point to Michigan in 1997 from profit; and Grand Rapids-based what was then its headquarters in Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Co., a SATURDAY, JANUARY 30 BEGINNING AT 9 A.M. Racine, Wis., with a promise to in- public company it took private. vest Michigan pension funds in In 2006, Wind Point bought two Special appearance by Steve Yzerman the firm if it would open an office portfolio companies from Detroit- and be co-headquartered here. based based Huron Capital L.L.C. — VISIT WWW.ASHMI.ORG OR CALL 248-646-8900 TO LEARN MORE. The firm has been an avid in- York Label Holdings Inc. of Pennsyl- vestor in Michigan companies, vania and Industrial Label Corp. of The Academy of the Sacred Heart was founded in 1851 and is Michigan’s oldest independent school. Located at 1250 and the state, in turn, has been an Nebraska. Kensington Road in Bloomfield Hills, it is a Catholic, college-preparatory school for girls (infant-Grade 12) and boys avid investor in various Wind When it moved here in 1997, (infant-Grade 8) of many cultures and faiths. The Academy is a member of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools, which Point funds. The state has invested Wind Point did venture-capital in- includes 21 schools in the U. S. and affiliation with the Society of the Sacred Heart in 44 countries around the world. about $200 million in the firm’s vesting, too, in earlier-stage com- seven funds. panies than those typically invest- The latest fund, of $915 million, ed in by private-equity firms. In has made one investment, in the 1998, it invested $8.5 million in $260 million acquisition last April Southfield-based 1/2 Off Card Shops of Grand Rapids-based Hearthside Inc. The company filed for bank- Food Solutions L.L.C., a contract ruptcy in 2000 and soon went out of manufacturer and packager of business. food products for other large Soon after that, Wind Point got North American food manufactur- out of the VC business. ers. Tom Henderson: (313) 446-0337, Last February, in response to [email protected]

Prestolite: Chinese fund loans supplier $33.5M Move Your Money! ■ From Page 1 “Additionally, since Prestolite leading designers and manufactur- was doing so well in Asia and the ers of medium and heavy trucks Contrary to popular belief, some banks in Michigan Asian economic atmosphere was and buses for commuters and are lending! As a local community bank, so much better than in North sightseers.” Lotus Bank helped create jobs by lending America, we found interested par- China has grabbed headlines re- $26 million to Southeast Michigan ties more receptive and were able cently for being the world’s largest customers in 2009. to generate interest through di- personal vehicle market in 2009, ‡ We increased our loan portfolio nearly 90% during 2009. rect, in-person approaches.” but the same is true for medium- to ‡ We accomplished this without taking any federal bailout Prestolite’s ties to China date to heavy-duty vehicle production in money, unlike some big banks that did and are 2001, when the company launched the country. still not lending. Prestolite Electric Beijing Ltd. In 2008, more than 1 million ‡ Our deposit rates are some of the highest in Michigan. Now, the business designs, engi- medium- and heavy-duty vehicles ‡ We are one of the most well-capitalized banks in neers and develops starter motors — which include semi-trucks, bus- Michigan. and alternators for the domestic es, delivery vans and industrial Chinese truck and bus market, but trucks — were produced in China, ‡ Lotus Bank offers the same products and services as the bibig bkbanks. also for export. according to production data from Why bank with big banks that don’t invest in your community? Prestolite has the manufactur- Northville-based CSM Worldwide Make the move to Lotus Bank today! ing capacity to produce 1 million Inc. starter motors and 500,000 alterna- Compare that to less than tors annually in China. In 2008, the 450,000 in North America, about Chinese unit generated roughly 900,000 in Europe and about 650,000 $110 million in revenue from com- in Japan/Korea. China is the dom- bined export sales and sales to the inant market. Chinese market, according to And that’s not expected to Prestolite’s Web site. change. 44350 West 12 Mile Road Novi, Michigan 48377 “Prestolite’s Chinese presence By 2014, CSM predicts China 248.735.1000 was very important because the will manufacture more than www.lotusbank.net Asian financial community was, 1.6 million medium- and heavy- and remains, so excited about the duty vehicles, vs. about 487,000 in vehicular industry as a whole,” North America, 768,000 in Europe Roesler said. and 456,000 in Japan/Korea. “Chinese bus manufacturers Ryan Beene: (313) 446-0315, have taken over as the world’s [email protected] 20100118-NEWS--0019-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 5:13 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 19 Auto show: Green future on display ■ From Page 1 states, including Indiana. There, the company announced on Jan. 5 that it plans to invest $43.5 million to open a manufacturing plant to build its Think City all-electric two-door hatchback. The Think City, slated to be sold in the U.S. late this . year, was one of the more than 20 electric and hybrid Go Green vehicles that media and industry officials visiting the auto show last week could test drive as part of the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s EcoXperience ex- . hibit at Cobo Center. Green Carl Galeana, owner of Van Dyke Dodge and a past Learn how you can reduce building chairman of the auto show, said it’s those cars and oth- COURTESY OF NAIAS er electric and hybrid vehicles at the auto show that The Nissan Leaf is one of the many electric vehicles on RSHUDWLQJFRVWVREWDLQ¿QDQFLQJ help to make this year’s green theme more tangible. display at the auto show’s Electric Avenue. IRUJUHHQUHWUR¿WVDQGLPSURYH “The theme for a lot of shows for the last few years International Inc. has a floor display in Cobo’s Michigan your workplace at our has been ‘green,’ ” Galeana said. This year “we had a Hall, a first for the Canada-based supplier whose U.S. Project Green Institute lot of people step up and bring some things that are headquarters is in Troy. It was there that the company in Ann Arbor or online at . truly green to the main floor.” rolled out E-Car Systems, a new global operating unit de- JSVig.com Electric cars were prominent in 37,000 square feet of signed to integrate Magna’s many vehicle electrifica- the show’s main floor called Electric Avenue. tion product capabilities, which include lithium-ion Contact Joe Vig to There, a variety of niche electric vehicles, as well as battery pack assembly and design, electric-drive mod- schedule a consultation. Mitsubishi Motor Corp.’s MiEV electric vehicle and Nis- ules, power inverters, battery management systems [email protected] san Motor Co.’s all-electric Leaf — an eleventh-hour de- and other components for hybrid and electric cars. 313.477.1060 cision Galeana called a “major coup” to have at the Magna’s office in Troy will handle the E-Car Sys- www.jsvig.com show — were on display. tems’ operations in North America and be led by Also in the Electric Avenue section were electric Chief Technical Officer Ted Robertson, according to charging stations developed by Jim Blaine, owner of spokeswoman Tracey Fuerst. PEP Stations L.L.C. and Livonia-based architectural Across Michigan Hall from Magna’s display is lithi- firm James Blaine and Associates. um-ion battery supplier A123 Systems Inc., which last The stations are fixed devices aimed at becoming the week announced plans to expand production capacity equivalent of gas station pumps for electric vehicles. at its battery manufacturing plants in Livonia. • • The shape and general design of the PEP units — A123 plans to expand its current cell manufacturing Commercial Residential Retail which stands for Plug-In Electric Power — come from capacity of 169 megawatt hours per year at its 300,000- Blaine’s company, while the internal electrical sys- square-foot plant in Livonia by an additional 200 tem is from Ricardo plc, the Britain-based parent of megawatt hours per year by the second half of the year. Van Buren Township-based Ricardo Inc., an engineer- The expansion will allow A123 to make enough ing and consulting firm. lithium-ion battery cells for 320,000 hybrid vehicles, Architectural Glass • Ornamental Glass • Production is expected to begin by the end of the or more than 24,000 plug-in hybrids per year. Back Painted Glass • Decorative Glass • year, and the company is soliciting the state to offer A123 also leased a 300,000-square-foot plant in Ro- Tub & Shower Enclosures • Stair & Patio tax breaks for those who purchase the units. mulus during the fourth quarter of 2009, along with Railings • Bathroom & Kitchen Sinks • The PEP units are targeted for commercial rather the Livonia plant. Faucets • Countertops • Water Walls • than home use, for businesses, movie theaters, apart- These displays, along with other examples of prod- Glass Flooring • Glass Tiles • Windows • ment complexes and hospitals that require a stay of ucts that are market-ready or nearly there, are what Curtain Wall • Cabinet Inserts • Marker several hours. stood out to Dave Andrea, vice president of economics Boards • Tables • Mirrors • Closet Doors • Units are expected to cost $500 to $1,500 each. The and industry analysis for the Original Equipment Suppli- Partition Walls • Room Dividers • Stairs • unit’s owner would be able to set a price per hour of use. ers Association. Back Splashes • Doors They’re not much larger than a parking meter, use “Concept cars are nice, but this is a much more stainless steel for the body and have a concrete base to pragmatic show, and it’s much more ‘green ready’ make them resistant to bumps. with technology and vehicles that will be in the show- Charging a Chevy Volt would take three hours and rooms in a couple of years,” Andrea said. We do service work for all glass cost less than $2, said Blaine’s son Brady. Ryan Beene: (313) 446-0315, [email protected] products mentioned above and Suppliers were also going green at the show. Magna Bill Shea contributed to this report. correlating hardware

• FREE Estimates & Design Consultations • Specializing in Custom Installations 313.928.0428 Malace: • SHOP online @ trainorglass.com/retail Reaching beyond automotive 7420 Allen Road Allen Park, MI. 48101 ■ From Page 3 Fortunately, the company had Malace said. tract engineering, design and tech- begun looking at diversification in The firm also is working with nician staff into the aerospace, 2007, assessing opportunities in several school systems in the priva- military and government sectors the defense, alternative energy, tization of maintenance, food ser- and also diversified its automotive government services, logistics and vice and grounds-keeping to lower customer base by adding foreign transportation and medical device their costs, Malace said. carmakers to the mix, Baker said. industries. “By privatiz- “Today the majority of our busi- “When the auto- ing these non- ness is with foreign carmakers, motive business We put a full- core, business- probably 65 percent.” coffee!! took a tumble, we “ related Last year, those moves helped the put a full-court court press on these functions, (com- company increase its sales from press on these other panies) can $15.5 million in 2008 to the mid- opportunity!! markets and were eliminate their (nonautomotive) $20 million range, he said. successful in land- long term bur- “And I would say that we’re go- ing several new cus- markets. dens for health ing to do at least 20 to 25 percent interested?? tomers and con- ” care and retire- more this year,” Baker said. tracts,” Malace said. Larry Malace, Malace & Associates ment,” he said. The company last “Those are That works out to about $5 mil- franchise?? April signed a three-year contract the types of opportunities being pre- lion to $6.3 million more in sales with Warren-based Oakland Logis- sented in both the private and pub- this year. tics Service Inc., part of the truck- lic sectors.” Employers are going to be very Call Jobi Schaeffer ing empire of Manuel Moroun, to The Dako Group in Troy began di- cautious of how many direct staff (517) 913-1987 or provide onsite staffing and human versifying about nine years ago, they bring on, Baker said. “The fear resource management services at said co-founder and CEO Scott this time around is much greater.” [email protected] its locations around the U.S. Baker. More of the burden for employ- The contract is worth at least “We saw this all coming … the ment and providing benefits will $10 million annually, Malace said. auto industry getting out of con- be on staffing companies, he said. www.biggby.com To support its new national con- trol with headcounts … we did not Subsequently, “2010 will be a tracts, the company plans to open know what was going to happen, growth year for our industry,” he offices in Jackson, Miss.; Fargo, so we felt we had to be in other (in- said. N.D.; and San Antonio, Texas; at a dustries),” he said. Sherri Welch: (313) 446-1694, total cost of $90,000 to $150,000, The Dako Group moved its con- [email protected] 20100118-NEWS--0020-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 2:06 PM Page 1

Page 20 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010 Privatization: Hot-button ordinances might get an overview ■ From Page 1 Charter, which spells out what the They know how much they pay “I could not offset the advantage troit-based business could be ap- ordinance must include. the people. They know how much that this Detroit-based business propriate. Freman Hendrix, chairman of the gasoline they’re using costs, ordinance gives to the Detroit- Gary Brown, Detroit City Coun- Detroit’s Charter Revision Com- the cost of the trucks. But what based business. A Detroit-based cil president pro tem, said he’d mission, said he expects the com- about the other costs the city is business can lose 28 or 29 points like to see data on both practices. mission to review the ordinance providing? They don’t keep track and still get the contract. They “I think the balance has to be with the input of residents, adding of that, and it’s so difficult to can actually charge more for ser- dictated by the data,” he said. that such a move is no more politi- show.” vices.” “I think there has to be a very in- cally charged than the other revi- If sufficient data can be com- Harris said that during his tense study done to show whether sions the commission is consider- piled, the council must approve tenure as auditor general he pro- or not privatization and Detroit- ing. Hendrix Harris the recommendation by a two- vided a memo to the City Council based business preferences are re- “I think we’re going to get a lot thirds vote — that’s six out of nine that showed that a contract would ally producing the results they are of discussion on the privatization input there. council members, a difficult vote cost $500,000 more each year if intended to produce. Until you col- provision in the charter,” he said. A department or agency must tally to amass in past years. And awarded to a Detroit-based busi- lect that data and let your deci- “And I think there are going to demonstrate that awarding a con- then the decision must be evaluat- ness. sion-making process be driven by be people on both sides of the is- tract outside the city will save ed annually. “They approved it,” he said. that, I can’t say if it’s is working, sue. I think we’re obliged to have money, and may also be required Preference for Detroit-based That’s the kind of scenario Pugh not working, or how could be both sides discussed openly and to show that such a decision won’t businesses is a provision created hopes to avoid. tweaked to work better,” Brown try to get a balanced perspective, impact employment levels of city by a council ordinance. “We need to be inclusive, but we said. what’s been the upside and the residents. When the city puts a contract should not bind ourselves from Brown said he plans to recom- downside of having the provision Former Auditor General out for bid, respondents are evalu- getting the best deal,” he said. mend that such work begin. in the charter, and let people make Joseph Harris Sr., who served as ated using a number of criteria. Cardenas wrote that while Bing But acquiring data, he said, is up their minds on if it needs to be CFO under Councilman Ken Companies can be awarded up to believes that Detroit-based busi- only part of the process. City lead- changed,” Hendrix said. Cockrel Jr., Detroit’s interim 20 points for competence, for ex- nesses should be supported ers must follow through, even All charter revisions must be ap- mayor in 2008 and 2009, said it’s ample, and up to 20 points for a “whenever possible, the city when choices are tough political- proved by Detroit voters. almost impossible to compile such competitive price, with a maxi- should not be placed at a disad- ly. Hendrix, who hopes to put revi- data because of the way city mum of 100 points. vantage if Detroit-based-business- “Are people going to have the sions on the ballot this fall, said he records are kept. A Detroit-based business auto- es are not competitive in price or courage to make decisions that are favors a cafeteria-style voting “(City) accounting is such that matically starts the process with quality.” in Detroiters’ best interests based method in which voters can accept they don’t even keep track of all 30 points. Jenkins said she supports a pref- on data?” Brown said. or reject changes individually. the costs involved in the opera- It’s a competitive advantage that erence for Detroit-based business- “Until we have data, we’re mak- As it stands, the charter pro- tion,” he said. Harris says is impossible to beat. es, but thinks the point level ing decisions based on emotion.” vides a work-around for outsourc- “Let’s take something like (the “As a CFO, I could not offset it should be lowered, saying that Nancy Kaffer: (313) 446-0412, ing jobs, and the council has some Department of Public Works). even if I wanted to,” Harris said. awarding 10 or 15 points for a De- [email protected].

Tax: Some question if time is right to restructure state taxes ■ From Page 3 services. Michigan’s overall 6 per- it out, and by reducing an aspect of lawmakers should exempt their cent sales tax on goods would be BLM LEGISLATIVE AGENDA the tax that can fall heavily on line of business. reduced, also to 5.5 percent. Statewide CEO group Business Leaders for Michigan has laid out the first companies with large sales but Business Leaders officials have Business Leaders officials last phase of its legislative agenda, including tax restructuring, budget and small profits. said that polling the group did in- week said the tax proposal overall spending reforms. The agenda includes: The MBT base has two compo- dicated some support for taxing would be revenue-neutral to the nents: the 0.8 percent modified certain services, and Rothwell said state. They said it would not only Eliminating the Michigan and benefits must be paid. gross-receipts tax that is levied on last week that “typically, it’s high- stabilize revenue for the state bud- Business Tax surcharge and Consolidating school sales minus purchases of tangible er-income individuals that pur- reducing the MBT’s gross-receipts get and make Michigan’s tax struc- administrative functions. property, and a 4.95 percent busi- chase more services.” tax rate while lowering Michigan’s Increasing public employee ture more reflective of the growing 6 percent sales tax to 5.5 percent ness income tax. But Holcomb said Michigan part of the economy, but it would health care contributions to align Greg Nowak, state and local tax chamber members oppose a sales and extending it to services. them with the national public-sector also make the state more competi- attorney with Miller, Canfield, Pad- tax on services, and the chamber Establishing a two-year budget average. tive for business and attract in- dock and Stone P.L.C., said the believes “now is the wrong time to cycle and forming an independent Reducing state employee vestment and jobs. public-private revenue forecasting compensation to the average gross-receipts component, which raise taxes on working families “We’ve looked at a lot of options, council to complete quarterly compensation of state workers in was estimated to generate up to across the state.” what we’ve proposed we think is revenue and spending estimates. the U.S. and eliminating a 70 percent of the MBT’s revenue, Matt Marsden, press secretary the best option,” Amending several laws to enable scheduled 3 percent increase for can result in a significant tax bur- for Senate Majority Leader Mike said Dave Joos, and encourage municipalities and state employees. den to companies with losses and Bishop, R-Rochester, said Senate a member of the school districts to increase Reducing the state workforce by to service businesses whose ex- Republicans this week will unveil efficiency through sharing services. group’s execu- 5 percent to 10 percent. penses are mostly nondeductible structural government and spend- Examples include changing Public tive committee Act 312 of 1969, which mandates Enacting further reforms in items such as labor. ing changes that are priorities, and CMS Energy binding arbitration for police and Michigan’s correctional system. Nowak said cutting the gross-re- and the package will likely include Corp. president fire union contract disputes with Requiring all legislative and ceipts rate, “in addition to reduc- reform elements proposed by Busi- and CEO. communities, and reforming the regulatory change proposals that ing the tax burden, it brings the ness Leaders and others. Not every- state Urban Cooperation Act of impact business to, before any tax more in line with traditional But there are no plans to take up body agrees. 1967 and similar acts to eliminate committee hearings are held, corporate income taxes” imposed any tax increases, business or in- Michigan a requirement that when a service include estimates of the financial in other states. dividual, he said. Joos and compliance costs to business. first needs to merger occurs, the higher wages He said 40 states have only a cor- “If that plan is indeed what they balance its bud- porate income tax as the primary want to do, it’s not going to start in get without a said the chamber supports elimi- saving reforms are passed.” business tax. the Senate,” Marsden said. general tax in- nating the 21.99 percent MBT sur- Business Leaders laid out its As for taxing services, those Gov. Jennifer Granholm has crease, enact charge but that tax-restructuring proposal as part businesses subject to the new tax discussed the need to put educa- cost-saving re- should be done of a legislative agenda that also would in the short run face signifi- tion funding on a more stable forms “and look by finding sav- calls for numerous budget and cant compliance burdens, Nowak foundation through such means at how we can ings elsewhere spending reforms (See box above.) said. When Michigan enacted the as extending the sales tax to ser- revitalize Michi- in state govern- “We’ve got a number of business ill-fated 6 percent services tax in vices and lowering the sales tax gan by remak- ment, through groups that are with us … on 2007, “there was enormous pain rate. ing our govern- reforms that the 90 percent of the issues,” said Doug felt by the service sector in trying Last week, press secretary Liz Holcomb ment to make it chamber and Rothwell, the group’s president to interpret the law” and only 60 Boyd declined to comment on the smaller and more efficient,” said others in the and CEO. “It’s just this tax issue. days provided before the tax was specifics of the Business Leaders Jim Holcomb, vice president of business com- There’s not a huge divide, but we to take effect. plan but said Granholm has been business advocacy for the Michigan munity, includ- do have a difference of opinion on He said if the Legislature does having ongoing discussions with Hubbard Chamber of Commerce. ing Business this one issue.” tax services, it must provide more the group and House Speaker “Then, and only then, is it the Leaders, have been seeking. Johnston, at the MMA, said the time for businesses to adjust and Andy Dillon, D-Redford Township. appropriate time to look at the tax “We continue to press that,” proposal would “change the dy- clearly define which services are Crain’s was unable to obtain a structure,” he said. Hubbard said. namic of competitiveness for taxable or exempt. comment from Dillon’s office by Sarah Hubbard, senior vice As for taxing services, she said, Michigan to grow jobs” in two Nowak said “it’s inevitable that deadline for this story. president of government relations the chamber is open to looking at ways: by immediately eliminating there will be intense lobbying Amy Lane: (517) 371-5355, at the Detroit Regional Chamber, the idea, “but only after budget- the surcharge rather than phasing from every service sector” on why [email protected] 20100118-NEWS--0021-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 4:11 PM Page 1

January 18, 2010 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Page 21 Film: Suspense hangs over debate on tax credits www.crainsdetroit.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Keith E. Crain ■ From Page 3 PUBLISHER Mary Kramer, (313) 446-0399 or [email protected] One is widely believed to be the EXECUTIVE EDITOR Cindy Goodaker, (313) 446- 0460 or [email protected] third “Transformers” movie, but MANAGING EDITOR Andy Chapelle, (313) 446- Droz said that film, which will 0402 or [email protected] ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR/FOCUS Jennette open in 2011 or 2012, hasn’t applied Smith, (313) 446-1622 or [email protected] for the incentives. BUSINESS LIVES EDITOR Michelle Darwish, (313) 446-1621 or [email protected] The first “Transformers” movie COPY DESK CHIEF Gary Piatek, (313) 446-0357 filmed in Detroit in 2006, but the or [email protected] ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Jeff Johnston, (313) incentives didn’t become law until 446-1608 or [email protected] April 2007. DATA EDITOR Anne Marks, (313) 446-0418 or [email protected] Since then, there’s been outcry WEB EDITOR Christine Lasek, (313) 446-0473, from some that the rebates are [email protected] WEB DEVELOPER Steve Williams, (313) 446- wasteful. 6059, [email protected] Michigan EDITORIAL SUPPORT Robertta Reiff (313) 446- The faces an on- 0419, YahNica Crawford, (313) 446-0329 going state REPORTERS “ MADE IN MICHIGAN NEWSROOM (313) 446-0329, FAX (313) 446- numbers are budget cri- 1687 TIP LINE (313) 446-6766 sis — esti- These films are some of those that Ryan Beene: Covers auto suppliers, steel, higher were shot partially or entirely in education and Livingston and Washtenaw mates say counties. (313) 446-0315 or [email protected] not adding Michigan last year: the shortfall Daniel Duggan: Covers retail, real estate and up to job could be Ⅲ “Capitalism: A Love Story” hospitality. (313) 446-0414 or (Michael Moore) [email protected] $1.6 billion NATHAN SKID/CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS Jay Greene: Covers health care, insurance and the creation as this year — Jeff Spillman (right), founder of S3 Entertainment Group L.L.C., looks around Ⅲ “Betty Anne Waters” (Hillary environment. (313) 446-0325 or S3’s Madison Heights studio with contractor John Wiegand. Parts of the Swank) [email protected]. and some 2009 feature film “Youth in Revolt” were shot here. Chad Halcom: Covers law, non-automotive promised. lawmakers Ⅲ “Caught in the Crossfire” (50 manufacturing, defense contracting and Oakland Cent) and Macomb counties. (313) 446-6796 or ” have called [email protected]. Rep. Tom McMillin, for a cap or Ⅲ “Cedar Rapids” (Sigourney Tom Henderson: Covers banking, finance, Several studio projects in production Weaver) technology and biotechnology. (313) 446-0337 or R-Rochester Hills repeal of the [email protected]. Ⅲ “Game of Death” (Wesley Nancy Kaffer: Covers small business, the city of incentives. outfitting a 750,000-square-foot Michigan’s film industry in- Snipes) Detroit, Wayne County government. (313) 446- “The nonpartisan economists centives include a 25 percent tax production and training facility 0412 or [email protected]. Ⅲ “The Oogieloves in the Big even agree that the film credit pro- credit for infrastructure projects, in Allen Park. Sound-stage con- Bill Shea: Covers media, advertising and gram is extremely costly and is Balloon Adventure” marketing, entertainment, the business of sports, and several are currently under struction is expected to begin in Ⅲ and transportation. (313) 446-1626 or failing miserably, costing the state way in metro Detroit. coming months. “Piranha 3-D” [email protected]. Nathan Skid: Multimedia reporter. Also covers the $100 million more than it brings in Ferndale-based S3 Entertain- And in Detroit, 23rd Street Stu- Ⅲ “Red Dawn” food industry. (313) 446-1654, [email protected]. and costing families about 7,500 ment Group L.L.C. announced on dios has an 18-acre complex at Ⅲ “Stone” (Robert DeNiro, Edward Sherri Begin Welch: Covers nonprofits and full-time jobs from the private sec- Jan. 8 that its S3 Studios film and 23rd Street and Michigan Av- Norton) services. (313) 446-1694 or [email protected] tor,” state Rep. Tom McMillin, R- LANSING BUREAU television production facility in enue. Ⅲ “The Irishman” (Val Kilmer, Amy Lane: Covers business issues at the Capitol, Rochester Hills, said in a state- Madison Heights is open and that The movie boom has also pro- Christopher Walken) telecommunications and utilities. (517) 371- ment last week. 5355, FAX (517) 371-2492, [email protected]. or six productions have booked duced casualties: Southfield- Ⅲ “Trust” (Clive Owen) 115 W. Allegan, Suite 220, Lansing 48933. “The numbers are not adding time starting in February. based Parallax Production Studios, Ⅲ “Up In the Air” (George Clooney) ADVERTISING up to job creation as promised. The site includes a 25,000- which announced a $60-million ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Marla Downs, (313) Ⅲ “You Don’t Know Jack” (Al 446-6032 or [email protected] The state will take $100 million square-foot stage, 10,000 square post-production deal with Cali- Pacino, Susan Sarandon) out of businesses in 2010 to pay for SALES INQUIRIES: (313) 446-6052; FAX (313) feet of furnished office space, fornia-based New Castle Entertain- Source: Michigan Film Office 393-0997 things like out-of-state actors’ ADVERTISING SALES Jeff Anderson, Matthew J. post-production facilities, a ment to make up to 12 movies, Langan, Lori Tournay Liggett, Tamara Rokowski, salaries and expensive dinners. screening room and other film went out of business before get- Kimberly Ronan, Cheryl Rothe, Dale Smolinski That means less money for exist- liance, a Novi-based trade group CLASSIFIED SALES (313)-446-0351 infrastructure support. ting off the ground. MARKETING MANAGER Irma Clark ing businesses to hire new em- “It’s been difficult for people to And television and video that lobbies on behalf of the state’s MULTIMEDIA MANAGER Alan Baker, (313) 446- ployees or keep existing ones,” he develop large-scale infrastruc- game producer Michele film industry. “All the sources I 0416 or [email protected] said. EVENTS MANAGER Nicole LaPointe ture” S3 founder Jeff Spillman Richards’ plan to build an look at show a lot of films shooting MARKETING ARTIST Sylvia Kolaski McMillin introduced a bill in said, because of the difficulty in $86 million animation and film in 2010.” SALES SUPPORT Suzanne Janik, YahNica Crawford August to repeal the credits, but it getting financing. studio, called Wonderstruck Stu- There are also more movies in- CIRCULATION Candice Yopp, Manager. hasn’t emerged from the com- terested in the west side of Michi- MARKETING COORDINATOR Kim Winkler Hollywood-based Raleigh Stu- dios and Detroit Center Studios, in PRODUCTION MANAGER Wendy Kobylarz merce committee. dios has committed to building a the old MGM Grand site went on gan, Adler said, noting that the PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Larry Williams, (313) 446-0450 Incentive opponents may get a $75 million, 200,000-square-foot hold after talks collapsed with movie “The Gun,” starring rapper CUSTOMER SERVICE boost from a national report issued studio at the idle Pontiac Center- the site’s owner. 50 Cent and Val Kilmer, is under MAIN NUMBER: Call (888) 909-9111 or write last week by the Tax Foundation, a point complex that it signed a However, a new site has been way in Grand Rapids. [email protected] nonprofit Washington, D.C.-based “It’s not all Southeast Michigan SUBSCRIPTIONS $59 one year, $98 two years. deal with last year to buy from identified and negotiations are Out of state, $79 one year, $138 for two years. think tank on government tax poli- General Motors Co. under way, she said. anymore. That’s a change,” Adler Outside U.S.A., add $48 per year to out-of-state rate for surface mail. Call (313) 446-0450 or cies, that’s critical of industry-spe- That project remains in devel- “We’re still committed to De- said. (888) 909-9111. cific tax breaks and suggests states opment. It’s backed by local en- troit,” Richards said. Adler remains less concerned SINGLE COPIES: (888) 909-9111. would see wider economic benefit REPRINTS: (800) 290-5460, ext. 125; (717) 399- trepreneur-turned-real-estate-de- The project still has an about political opposition for the 1900, ext. 125; or ashley.zander@theygsgroup if they were repealed. veloper Linden Nelson, Alfred $86 million value, which gar- incentives than the lack of film in- .com. TO FIND A DATE A STORY WAS PUBLISHED: “While broad-based tax competi- Taubman of Bloomfield Hills- nered her a 12-year, $16.9 million dustry infrastructure being a drag (313) 446-0367 or e-mail [email protected]. tion often benefits consumers and based Taubman Centers Inc. and state tax credit and other incen- on growth. spurs economic growth and devel- CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS IS PUBLISHED BY high-profile Hollywood agent Ari tives. L.A.-based real estate and “What remains a problem are CRAIN COMMUNICATIONS INC. opment, industry-specific tax com- Emanuel. studio developers SHM Partners studios. We need to have the stu- CHAIRMAN Keith E. Crain petition transfers wealth from the dios” to attract more movies, he PRESIDENT Rance Crain Unity Studios, majority owned remain financial backers of the SECRETARY Merrilee Crain many to the few,” the foundation and operated by investors from project, she said. said. TREASURER Mary Kay Crain wrote. Several projects are under way Executive Vice President/Operations Los Angeles and Michigan, is — Bill Shea William A. Morrow So far, no lawmaker has intro- to fill the infrastructure void. (See Group Vice President/Technology, duced new legislation to kill or cap story, this page.) Manufacturing, Circulation Robert C. Adams the incentives, but that could have added $1.5 million in annual try work, allowing us to retain In the meantime, film industry Vice President/Production & Manufacturing change at any time. revenue to his Farmington Hills- staff. It’s been helpful for us to con- watchers are keeping their eyes on Dave Kamis Chief Information Officer “I am not hearing of anything based film industry business, tinue in an economy that’s under Lansing, where lawmakers are en- Paul Dalpiaz specific” on the rebates, said Matt which is anchored by Grace & Wild duress,” he said. “We’re very opti- tering an election year. Corporate Circulation/Audience Development Director Marsden, press secretary for Sen- HD Studios. mistic the state “I don’t think (the rebates are) Kathy Henry ate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, “We’re seeing a lot of inquiries is going to real- going away for a while. They’re in G.D. Crain Jr. Founder (1885-1973) R-Rochester. (from moviemakers). Our expecta- ize the value of place and I think the power infra- Mrs. G.D. Crain Jr. Chairman (1911-1996) EDITORIAL & BUSINESS OFFICES: Supporters say the rebates have tions are that it’s growing, but we this and sends structure wants to keep them in 1155 Gratiot Ave., Detroit MI 48207-2732; (313) 446-6000 helped ancillary services for the still think there’s a lot of room to the signal to place,” said Doug Trevethan, edi- Cable address: TWX 248-221-5122 AUTNEW DET industry — hotels, restaurants, grow,” he said. Hollywood that tor-in-chief of Michigan Vue maga- CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS ISSN # 0882-1992 etc., while providing the state with The company worked on 22 we’re here to is published weekly, except for a special issue the zine, which covers the state’s tele- third week of January, a special issue the fourth an image boost. movies last year, including such stay.” vision, radio and film industry. week of August, and no issue the third week of December by Crain Communications Inc. at 1155 A study by the Michigan State A-list productions as the Robert Others are “There are certainly valid argu- Gratiot Ave., Detroit MI 48207-2732. Periodicals University Center for Economic Analy- De Niro drama “Stone,” and noticing other postage paid at Detroit, MI and additional mailing ments against the tax incentives. offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to sis said that the first eight months Grace believes that work will trends in the They do cost money, but we’re try- CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS, Circulation Adler Department, P.O. Box 07925, Detroit, MI 48207- of the film credits, in 2008, generat- grow if the state government business and ing to diversify our economy. In 9732. GST # 136760444. Printed in U.S.A. ed more than $65 million in spend- makes it clear that the incentives are excited about 2010. terms of the state budget overall, Entire contents copyright 2010 by Crain Communications Inc. All rights reserved. ing and created more than 2,700 won’t be cut. “There’s lots of anticipation,” it’s small potatoes.” Reproduction or use of editorial content in any jobs. “We’ve replaced (commercial) said director Mark Adler, who Bill Shea: (313) 446-1626, manner without permission is strictly prohibited. Steven Wild said the incentives work with this feature-film-indus- runs the Michigan Production Al- [email protected] 20100118-NEWS--0022-NAT-CCI-CD_-- 1/15/2010 5:00 PM Page 1

Page 22 CRAIN’S DETROIT BUSINESS January 18, 2010 RUMBLINGS WEEK ON THE WEB FROM WWW.CRAINSDETROIT.COM, WEEK OF JAN. 9-15

machines. Following the launch its answer to Ford nor, the AP reported. Biggest Loser deal, NuStep ECD to build Motor Co.’s Sync voice-acti- Democrats John Freeman, Marketing Coordinator Jane vated infotainment system a former state representa- Local chefs Benskey said the Utah ranch in 2011, called Blue Harmo- tive from Madison Heights, called and has since agreed solar-laminate ny. Visteon Corp. and Delphi and State Sen. Hansen to purchase two units. Automotive L.L.P. also are Clarke, Detroit, dropped The machine, which re- developing competing tech- their bids last week. compete tails at $5,595, has a 600- plant in France nologies. pound weight capacity and a Ⅲ Verizon Wireless said it low step-through design. ochester Hills-based spent more than $209 mil- OTHER NEWS Energy Conversion De- lion in 2009 to improve its Ⅲ The federal govern- Sports Career Fair features R vices Inc. (Nasdaq: Michigan network, includ- ment has awarded Michi- for charity ECD) announced Friday it ing building 45 new cell gan more than $223 million exec Q&A, Pistons tickets will build a 30-megawatt so- sites and installing backup to help tear down blighted ariety, The Children’s not entire contracts. And lar-laminate manufactur- generators. buildings and revitalize Tom Wilson, president of Charity, plans to host more than a few players ing plant in France at a site Ⅲ Cadillac has tabbed the neighborhoods in a dozen V its own local cook- have since left town. Auburn Hills-based Palace to be determined. New York office of British cities, including Detroit, ing contest among area Former Detroit Pistons Sports & Entertainment, will France is one of the creative agency Bartle Bogle the AP reported. chefs, modeled after the guard Allen Iverson topped the be among the panelists dur- world’s fastest-growing and Hegarty to handle its Ⅲ More than 110 hospi- Food Network’s “Iron Chef” list at $20.8 million, followed ing a Feb. 16 executive pan- most progressive solar $270 million advertising ac- tals in Michigan have show. by Detroit Tigers right-field- el question-and-answer ses- markets,” said ECD Presi- count. Birmingham-based pledged to eliminate indus- Twenty of Detroit’s top er Magglio Ordonez at $18.9 sion during the 10th annual dent and CEO Mark Morel- McCann Erickson, which trial trans fats from food chefs will cook for tables of million. The other top earn- Sports Career Fair at the li in a press release. handles General Motors Co.’s service programs as part of 10 March 5 at the Radisson ers were: Miguel Cabrera, Palace of Auburn Hills. international, corporate a statewide initiative to im- Hotel in Bloomfield Hills.The Tigers, $14.3 million; More than 30 organiza- ON THE MOVE and Saab advertising, was prove patient and commu- fundraiser will support Rasheed Wallace, ex-Piston, tions, including the Detroit eliminated in November as nity health, according to Southfield-based Variety’s $13.6 million; Jeremy Bonder- Pistons and Detroit Tigers Ⅲ Bob Sliva announced he a candidate. the Michigan Health & Hospi- mission of raising money for man, Tigers, $12.5 million; along with business, acade- will retire as vice president Ⅲ Henry Ford Cottage Hos- tal Association. area charities serving chil- Richard Hamilton, Pistons, mic and media outlets, are and general manager of De- pital in Grosse Pointe Ⅲ The state of Michigan dren with special needs, as $10.8 million; Carlos Guillen, scheduled to participate. troit ABC affiliate WXYZ- Farms will close its inpa- and Microsoft Corp. will of- well as the Variety Produce Tigers, $10 million; Dontrelle Registrants also get a Channel 7 on April 1, his tient medical, surgical, re- fer displaced workers free Rescue Program, which res- Willis, Tigers, $10 million; ticket to the Pistons-Min- 60th birthday. habilitation and psychi- technology training around atric units and convert to a cues unsold food from the De- Tayshaun Prince, Pistons, $9.5 nesota Timberwolves game Ⅲ Teresa Sullivan, provost the state, the AP reported. large multispecialty outpa- troit Produce Terminal. million; Nicklas Lidstrom, De- that night. Those who regis- and executive vice presi- State workforce develop- tient center by April 3, offi- As of the middle of last troit Red Wings, $7.4 million; ter by Jan. 29 qualify to dent for academic affairs at ment officials will decide week, the charity had cials for Henry Ford Health Marian Hossa, ex-Red Wing, have a one-page résumé in- the University of Michigan, which training benefits to rounded up eight chefs and will leave System said. Under the $7.4 million; and Nate Robert- cluded in a résumé book offer. sold 12 tables at $1,500 each, son, Tigers, $7 million. the post af- plan, the Henry Ford Med- Ⅲ The number of visitors used by the organizations. said honorary chair and lo- For more on athlete ter four ical Group will take over to the Detroit Zoo increased For ticket pricing and reg- cal chef Matt Prentice. It also salaries, see Shea’s blog years to the hospital, recruit anoth- 14 percent last year, from istration information, call had raised close to $50,000 post at www.crains become er 30 physicians and add 1.11 million people in 2008 (248) 371-2030 or e-mail in sponsorships with Meijer, detroit.com/blogs president more than a dozen outpa- to 1.27 million in 2009, [email protected]. Shuert Industries Inc., Suntel of the Uni- tient services over the next marking the fourth consec- Services Inc., Proforma, Plan- NuStep lands deal after versity of two years. utive year of increased at- ning Alternatives Ltd. BITS & PIECES Virginia tendance. Single tickets are avail- Ⅲ gear is on ‘Biggest Loser’ Sullivan starting DTE Energy Co. will able for $150. For more infor- Ⅲ The Southern Wayne Aug. 1. A GREEN TECH once again match every Southeast Michigan tal- mation, call (248) 258-5511. County Regional Chamber successor is expected to be Ⅲ Five local companies dollar donated during the lied another business win- named Romulus Economic named before her July 31 will receive nearly seventh annual Winter Sur- ner from “The Biggest Los- Development Director Tim departure. $56.6 million in U.S. Depart- vival Radiothon — Feb. 5, 6 A few Detroit sports stars er” after Ann Arbor-based Keyes the recipient of its Ⅲ Gov. Jennifer Granholm ment of Energy grants to de- — a joint effort of The Heat NuStep Inc. closed a sale for top $10M for single season 2009 Image Award. The has appointed Rebecca velop engine technologies and Warmth Fund and WWJ more than $11,000 in exercise award recognizes an indi- Humphries as director of to increase automotive fuel AM 950 to help families fac- A handful of Detroit’s top equipment that had ap- vidual or business that pro- Michigan’s new Department economy: $15 million to ing utility shut-offs. professional athletes are in peared on the NBC program. Ford Motor Co., $14.5 million Ⅲ About 300 University of the $10 million club when it motes a positive image of of Natural NuStep, which manufac- to Chrysler Group L.L.C., Michigan employees will be comes to their annual southern Wayne County Resources turers cross trainer exer- $11.9 million to Robert the first to move to UM’s salaries. and the Downriver region. and Envi- cise equipment, completed Bosch L.L.C., $7.7 million to North Campus Research Bill Shea, Crain’s sports Ⅲ Former Detroit City ronment, a a sale for two of its T5XR General Motors Co. and $7.5 Complex, the former Pfizer business reporter, culled Councilwoman Sheila Cock- combina- machines to Ivins, Utah- million to Delphi Automotive. Inc. property purchased by the names of those with the rel will teach Detroit politi- tion of the based The Biggest Loser Re- Ⅲ The Chevrolet Volt plug- UM in June. Most now biggest paychecks from the cal history and a course on depart- sort at Fitness Ridge after its in hybrid will launch work in off-campus USA Today salary database. city government in Wayne ments of machines were featured on in Michigan, buildings Figures are based on the State University’s Irvin D. Natural the reality show. The ma- joining Cali- leased by most recent season and are Reid Honors College, begin- Humphries Resources chines have higher weight fornia as a UM. single-season base salaries, capacities than conventional ning this week. and Envi- ronmental Quality. market that Ⅲ The Humphries has been DNR will get the car Farmington chief since 2004. initially, General Motors Hills City Co. said. GM will deliver a Council decided not to opt handful of Volts to Detroit- out of the Suburban Mobility COMPANY NEWS based DTE Energy Co. late Authority for Regional Trans- Ⅲ Auburn Hills-based this year for use and road portation bus system. BEST FROM THE BLOGS Ⅲ Chrysler Group L.L.C. will ad- testing, Automotive News The new Detroit Daily READ THESE POSTS AND MORE AT WWW.CRAINSDETROIT.COM/BLOGS vertise during the Super reported. Press that suspended opera- Bowl for the first time since tions after less than a week Excitement is walking catwalk Law firms turn to marketing 2004, showcasing its Dodge in November says it won’t car brand, the AP reported. GOVERNOR’S RACE resume publication. I’m not really Law firms can’t Ⅲ Detroit-based American Ⅲ University of Michigan passionate“ about cars. merely“ raise the hourly Axle & Manufacturing Hold- Regent However, I do heart billing rate to grow ings Inc. said it expects to Denise Il- OBITUARIES infrastructure. So getting revenue anymore, and report a profit in the fourth itch met Ⅲ Robben Fleming, 93, for- to clamber around the more have turned to catwalk/rigging above marketing options if the quarter, which would be its Tuesday mer University of Michigan the floor of Cobo was growth at the Legal second consecutive prof- with president, died Jan. 11. pretty much the most Marketing Association itable quarter, and also ex- White Ⅲ Mira Linder, founder of exciting thing that’s Detroit City Group is pects its 2009 revenue to hit House offi- Southfield-based Mira Linder happened to me this any indicator. roughly $1.5 billion, down cials to ex- Spa in the City, died Dec. 30. month. 28.8 percent compared with plore a She was 88. Reporter Nancy Kaffer’s blog on the city of Detroit Reporter Chad Halcom’s blog on the legal ”business the $2.11 billion in revenue possible Ⅲ Bill Toia, 95, former ” Ilitch and small business can be found can be found at www.crainsdetroit.com/halcom it posted in 2008. Democrat- owner of the Gratiot Auto at www.crainsdetroit.com/kaffer Ⅲ Denso Corp. plans to ic bid for Michigan gover- Supply chain, died Dec. 16. DBpageAD.qxd 1/12/2010 10:00 AM Page 1

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