August 2011 BusinessBusiness $2.00 updateupdate 1993-2011 ublicationublication Features: Assisted Care SBA Lending Education Elec/Mech Fleet

50 Years in Heating • Air Conditioning • Refrigeration Financial Boost Provided for 2 Small Businesses By Ted Booker apply for more funding. loan, a certified development company be approved for these loans, the SBA first While banks don’t usually offer provides up to 40 percent through an evaluates the cost of rebuilding the prop- Small businesses vary widely in annual loans totaling more than 75 per- agreement backed by the SBA, and the erty, then the applicant’s repayment abil- size, ranging anywhere from a couple of cent of a business’ last year’s profit, the applicant provides 10 percent. The maxi- ity, and finally, whether the applicant entrepreneurs to companies with more SBA frequently grants loans for the full mum amount for these loans is $5 mil- could instead qualify for a loan in the than 100 employees. But when these amount. lion for any business and $5.5 million for commercial market. If the criteria are businesses are ready to expand—adding SBA programs “allow access to cap- manufacturers. met, the loans are usually approved more employees or investing in new proj- ital that’s not conventionally available,” While manufacturers use the 504 within a month. ects—strict lending requirements from said Picarazzi, adding that Michigan’s program to purchase equipment, Picarazzi The uptick in SBA loan volume, this banks often stand in the way. SBA program now leads the country in maintained the program is mainly geared year, indicates a growing economy in This is where the Small Business the number of loans that have been toward small business owners who are West Michigan, Picarazzi said, adding Association (SBA) steps in to help, part- offered to businesses this year. seeking to own their own buildings. that participation from area banks and nering with banks and credit unions to Depending on a small business’ size Through the SBA’s microloan pro- credit unions has similarly climbed. offer affordable loans that can meet a and cash flow, the SBA has an array of gram, with loan amounts of up to “I think we’re seeing a turnaround,” business’ financial needs. By providing programs to meet a wide range of needs, $50,000, certified microloan lenders in Picarazzi concluded. “Customers are government-backed guarantees, SBA Picarazzi said. West Michigan—such as Cornerstone using our loans to grow and expand their loans offer more money and lower pay- The SBA’s 7(a) lending program Alliance of Benton Harbor and Northern businesses, and lenders are approving ments than those traditionally offered by offers loans that serve multiple business Initiatives of Traverse City—are able to them. We’re seeing more participation lending institutions, said Brian Picarazzi, purposes, from adding personnel and assist entrepreneurs with their startup from lenders across the board.” senior area manager for the SBA’s West purchasing real estate or equipment, to business endeavors. The loans—offered For more information about SBA Michigan regional office in Grand Rapids. acquiring more working capital to shore by non-profit financial intermediaries— loan programs, Brian Picarazzi can be Because lenders participating in the up financial losses. The maximum size of often provide a solution for those startups reached at (616) 456-5512. program are guaranteed repayment for these loans is $5 million, which was that cannot acquire credit from financial up to 90 percent of SBA loans, Picarazzi increased from $2 million by the Small institutions, perhaps because of bruised Freelance reporter, Ted Booker, has said, they are often able to extend the Business Jobs Act of 2010. credit or lack of collateral, said Picarazzi. published articles for The Holland time for repayment, sometimes up to ten The 504 fixed asset financing pro- To help businesses recover from Sentinel, Business Update Publication years. Loans traditionally offered for 20 gram, by contrast, only offers loans for natural disasters, the SBA also offers and The St. Ignace News. years, for example, are often stretched to real estate purchases or large construc- low-interest loans through its direct 25 years, and the qualifying require- tion equipment. Based on the project assistance program, which subsidizes ments are relaxed so that businesses can cost, a lender provides 50 percent of the projects to repair damaged property. To

Seaman’s Sails Fifty Years with Family 4 and Core Values on Deck By Amy Cygan Whether you’re third-generation Kim or “It isn’t a political game here: It is financially strong company not only Jacob Seaman, or you’re Rick Walker- what you see. From the time you walk means bringing in revenue, but relates to Don Seaman could not have predict- director of business development, Dave into Seaman’s, you want to be a part of how we treat our vendors. We have a ed that his Grand Rapids-based company, Galbreath-operations manager, or it—I love this company.” strong reputation with our vendors, founded in 1961 as Seaman’s Air Patricia Van Kuiken-assistant general Dave’s Voice – “The Industry” because Seaman’s pays—through the Conditioning and Refrigeration, would manager—“You’re not a number whatso- “Commercial and industrial type good times and the bad. sail to its 5oth anniversary—let alone, on ever,” as Patti points out, “but a part of sales grew quickly for us in the 90s dur- “When the economy dropped off in second-generation waters. Randy the culture of this company.” Indeed, ing the building boom, and even though 2008, it caused us to sharpen our pencil. Seaman, the son to whom Don passed the Randy insists upon the voice of his “fam- the process presented some challenges, We already had a fantastic culture—Patty company oars in 1988, aims to preserve ily” being heard: we hired many employees and focused on had been instrumental in keeping that the integrity of his father’s business by Patti’s Voice – “Family” the education and training of our field culture alive—and the tremendous focus continuing to provide high quality heat- “When I was hired by Don Seaman, technicians—all while maintaining that on quality, not taking shortcuts, was a ing, ventilation, and air I noticed he treated me as an equal. It quality standard, which we simply don’t hallmark of the company, but the market conditioning/refrigeration (HVAC/R) didn’t matter that I was sitting in the deviate from. To hold your values and had changed. The economy had created services to residential and commercial back room doing the typing; I was just as your quality, and still make a living is more cost-conscious customers, and customers, but also strives to nurture a important to him as anybody else. certainly tough when the economy back- more intense competition. Consequently, company-wide “forward thinking” men- “Back then, we had the triplicate slides, but we’ve successfully managed. we shifted from being a high-quality tality. Yet even beyond journeying the forms with the carbon copy, the upright “The communication and interaction provider of equipment and installation to waves of the future—Randy realizes that typewriters, and the old dispatch system,” between our field technicians and our being a business-solutions company. without his dedicated employees, there Patti laughs, “and there were only about customers is one area that has evolved “That shift has driven us to do ener- could be no sea to sail. ten employees. Those were great times! for us. Today’s customers are more gy audits and to focus on indoor air-qual- For Seaman’s, “employee” and “But there was also this ‘unspoken involved, so we’ve concentrated heavily ity, which has become a huge issue in the “family” are interchangeable words. etiquette’ that existed. When Don would on in-house customer service training. medical market and office environments. go out to quote a large service repair, it “The Internet and computerized “As a team, one of our charges was was his handshake that meant something. technology, naturally, have affected the to elevate our project management pro- Business Companies today, still connect us with HVAC/R industry. Now, rather inexpen- fessionalism. When the economy is lush being part of that ‘good old boy’ group. sively, we can install equipment that will and margins are higher, some variation updateupdate “The core values instilled in this allow for the temperature in one’s busi- doesn’t mean much, but when bidding ublication company, like honesty and integrity, have ness to be modified from a web-based with low margins, precision is key. The never been compromised, despite the phone, from anywhere in the world. three of us have collaborated to create a Publisher: Gary Kralapp reins passing from father to son. The “But traveling back, Don started his professional project mgmt. process that focus and direction of the company shift- repair and installation business because has significantly impacted the company’s Business Development ed, however, as Randy took control. From he recognized a need for air conditioning progress. Senior Vice President: Diane LaPreze the beginning, we were primarily all serv- contractors. At the time, businesses were “Another huge shift that we’ve seen Senior Vice President: Jim Lroy ice, but when Randy was in sales, we just beginning to utilize the equipment, corresponds to education. In Don’s era, Circulation: David Calkins secured larger projects and moved toward and most residences did not have them. our field technicians were mostly high the commercial and industrial side. Rick’s Voice – “Business” school graduates. Randy has an associ- Contributing Writers: Ted Booker, “Over the last ten years, Randy devel- “The fact is that between the gov- ate’s from Ferris and has developed his Brian Van Haren, Mindy Koschmann, oped his middle management and leader- ernment’s regulations on the manufac- networking skills on national and local Scott Perry, Andreas Fein ship teams; he was always thinking about turing of HVAC/R equipment and the platforms. Today, 74 percent of our tech- the future. He knew there would be a gap desire to be competitive, manufacturers nical people have college training, so the are trying to differentiate their product focus for the next generation will be on Managing Editor: Carol M. Kralapp between where he was at and where his Associate Editor: Amy Cygan children would come through, if they even from the next. technical and business knowledge and Printing/Distribution: News Web Printing chose to join Seaman’s. “In business, “better, faster, cheap- degrees, in addition to the HVAC college, Accountant: Michael Tawney & Company “When the third generation began er” are the three mantras; often times, because we have a more sophisticated set Legal: Miller Canfield Paddock & Stone showing interest, I was excited! After a you can’t do all three. The pressure is on of customers whose language we need to collective 20+ years working for Seaman’s, doing things cheaper. Well, doing things speak. ® The monthly published Business Update Inc. I now have the opportunity to assist and cheaper by pulling quality out of what “Having retired from Corporate all rights reserved. No portion can be repro- duced without the written permission of the pub- watch Kim grow in her area, and Dave and you do has a long-term impact on reputa- America, I see the difference between lisher. The management of Business Update Inc.® Rick will help Jake in his area. Randy also tion, so that’s something we just won’t running a large organization within a big is not responsible for the opinions expressed by its writers or editors. Nor is it responsible for any chose for them to work, for now, under all do. bureaucratic company, and running a information contained on any schedule or calen- of us—recognizing the importance of being “Our mission statement is what we small org. in a fast-moving co. that is dar. We invite editorial suggestions, reader par- treated on equal terms, as every other call our “three-legged stool,” which cohesive. I’m excited to be working for a ticipation, or article submissions. We reserve all rights in communications sent to our editorial employee. And Kim and Jake have been focuses on our people, our financials, and small, dynamic business like Seaman’s. staff as unconditionally assigned for publication very respectful of that ideology. our customers. As an example, being a Randy – “Closing Words” ® or any other use Business Update Inc. in its sole “The industry is excellent,” said discretion, shall deem appropriate. All submis- sions are subjected to our unrestricted right to Randy. “As a close friend of mine once edit and comment. For further information con- said: ‘Nobody does more to benefit cerning this publication, or past issues, please Quality Office Furniture, mankind than those who keep one warm write or call: at a price you can afford! in the winter and cool in the summer, PO Box 541 install refrigeration to help provide one Byron Center, MI 49315 Bill Feyen with fresh food for three square meals, Phone: (616) 583-1577 Fax: 888-728-0045 616-554-0200 365 days a year, and keeps one healthy Email: [email protected] [email protected] and happy—who else in the world gets to accomplish that much?’” Aviation Program Maps its Territory 5

By Amy Cygan or even aviation law (well-served along- and Powerplant license. In addition to haven’t really changed much in the last side a WMU pre-law major). having the opportunity to ensure the fifty years, but about eight years ago, Since 1939—for 72 years—Western Lastly, enrollees seeking to fine- proper working order of aircraft, some WMU wanted to elevate its program to Michigan University (WMU) has taken scale the structural systems of an aircraft graduates find work on amusement park where the industry was going,” under its wings, students who want will benefit from a Bachelor’s degree in roller coasters, or on alternative energy explained Recruitment and Outreach nothing more than to fly, repair, or man- Aviation Maintenance Technology, which sources, like wind turbines. Manager at WMU, Tom Thinnes. age those wings. Of course, I’m talking allows them to qualify for their Airframe “Collegiate aviation programs Continued on page 13 about those long, metal angulations that protrude from the sides of planes. With the third largest aviation pro- gram in the U.S., WMU’s 20-acre College of Aviation, located at the W.K. Kellogg Airport in Battle Creek, offers three dif- ferent bachelor degree programs designed around three aviation career paths: Piloting, business management, and maintenance and technology. A Bachelor’s in Aviation Flight Science prepares students for a profes- sional career in piloting; not surprisingly, many graduates of this program continue building flight experience as enlistees in the military. (Although a military flight slot is not guaranteed, graduates of the program have a significant competitive advantage by completing all of their civil- ian flight ratings ahead of their enlist- ment) In addition to becoming a tradi- tional airline pilot, an aviator can also secure a career working as a corporate pilot, flying freight or air cargo, or shar- ing his or her passion for flying as a cer- tified flight instructor. According to the U.S. Labor of Statistics Bureau’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition, “Civilian aircraft pilots and flight engineers held about 116,000 jobs in 2008, [with] employment … projected to grow 12 per- cent from 2008 to 2018.” Air travel, expected to increase with an economy upswing and the mandatory retirement of commercial pilots aged 65, is expected to increase pilot demand. If pursuing the Flight Science degree, undergraduates have the opportunity to start flying as early as their freshman year, although first, they’ll need to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical inspection. As a profes- sional pilot, one needs a first class (as opposed to second or third class, as with recreational pilots) medical certification from an Aviation Medical Examiner – a physician that has been certified or sanc- tioned by the FAA to perform pilot certifi- cations. (The FAA.gov website lists all the AMEs in the U.S.) WMU encourages stu- dents to obtain a first class certification, so as to ensure (before graduation) an appro- priate career path. The Aviation Science and Administration program prepares stu- dents for the business side of aviation; graduates might enter the fields of avia- tion sales, airport or airline management, 6 Finance/Insurance Briefs

Grandville - Berends Hendricks Stuit Grand Rapids – Intervention Insights Battle Creek - James Lance is an asso- Ann Arbor - Baker Strategy Group Insurance Agency, Inc. welcomes has announced the close of $7.2 million ciate attorney with Kreis, Enderle, (BSG) has relocated to 214 S. Main St., Property & Casualty and Employee in Series B financing. The deal was co- Hudgins & Borsos P.C. and has been Suite 212, Ann Arbor, allowing more Benefits Account Executive Ken led by Beringea and Chrysalis appointed to the Board of Real Estate accessibility to local clientele. BSG con- Keuning, who specializes in the materi- Ventures, who were joined by Hopen Brokers and Salespersons. centrates on China business develop- al transportation and construction Life Sciences, Michigan Accelerator ment, education, non-profit associations industries. Fund I, and other existing investors. In Grand Rapids – Blackford Capital LLC and advanced manufacturing. conjunction with the financing, Beringea welcomes Cason Green as an analyst. Grand Rapids – Janet Ramsey, a partner Managing Director, Michael Gross, and Green’s role will include conducting Washington - The U.S. Department of with the law firm of Warner Norcross & Chrysalis Managing Director, Koleman financial and operational reviews of new the Treasury announced that Huron Judd LLP, will serve a three-year term Karleski, have joined the company’s investment opportunities as well as Valley State Bank (Milford, MI) on the Board of Directors of the Frederik Board of Directors. The investment will monitoring current portfolio companies. received $2.6 million through the Small Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Her enable the company to expand the com- Business Lending Fund, which as part of practice will concentrate on litigation. mercialization of its OncInsights product Kentwood - Regal Investment the Small Business Jobs Act that platform, while furthering strategic rela- Advisors has introduced the Regalfolios President Obama signed into law, Grand Rapids - Bruce A. Courtade, tionships in the cancer care industry. Tactical Model. Managed by Anthony encourages community banks to Rhoades McKee attorney and share- Burek, the model takes advantage of increase lending to small businesses. holder, has been appointed to serve as Grand Rapids - Varnum Partner David short-term market anomalies and mar- an honorary advisor to The Imagine Khorey is one of four Michigan attor- ket sector strength or weakness by Grand Rapids – Plante & Moran, PLLC Fund. Courtade is vice president of the neys to become a newly-elected fellow of proactively adjusting asset allocations has promoted Laura Pettinga and 41,000-member State Bar of Michigan. the prestigious College of Labor and and defending against unfavorable mar- Adam Stevenson, who both work in the Employment Lawyers. ket trends and valuations. Investors audit department; Jeremy Tollas, a Kentwood - Regal Investment should expect a higher turnover rate and financial consultant with Plante Moran Advisors has announced that Anthony Holland - Emily Newhouse joins higher frequency of trading, compared to Financial Advisors; and Brian Greko, Burek is the new money manager for Macatawa Bank as relationship manag- a strategic-core portfolio. CPA, to associate. the Strategic Core holdings in Regal’s er and investment representative at the discretionary portfolio, Regalfolios. Zeeland State Street branch. Newhouse Grand Rapids – Chosen from 5,000+ West Michigan - Fifth Third Bank has Burek’s duties will include providing will assist clients with their retirement submissions, the quote from Plante & recognized Michael Nagelvoort as investment analysis reporting, rebalanc- planning, investments, insurance, and Moran, PLLC Partner Kelly Springer, investment executive and assistant vice ing, handling case construction for all of banking and lending needs. “Find your leadership style by allowing president. With 13 years of industry Regal’s affiliates, heading a newly- your values and vision to set your experience, he will serve customers in formed investment committee, and cre- Detroit - Brad Sysol (principal, Miller course,” will be included in the 2012 the Holland, Zeeland and Hamilton ating a new portfolio that will be a tacti- Canfield; adjunct professor of environ- Woman’s Advantage Shared Wisdom areas. cal model offered to Regal’s affiliates and mental law, Thomas M. Cooley Law Calendar. their clients. School) recently spoke on “Global Grand Rapids - Patrick Ellis has joined Climate Change: Environmental and Lansing - Accident Fund Holdings, Inc. Rhoades McKee as an associate; his Washington – Over four years, the U.S. Climate Law” at the Battle Creek Area has announced that the construction practice will focus on general litigation Small Business Administration’s Math and Science Center. team members responsible for the steel and medical malpractice. Patriot Express Pilot Loan Guarantee work on its completed corporate head- Initiative has provided more than $633 Chicago, IL - BDO USA, LLP announced quarters—Accident Fund Holdings; Grand Rapids - Nikole Canute, an asso- million in SBA-guaranteed loans to help that Doug Bekker has been admitted to Ruby & Associates, Inc.; Douglas ciate of the law firm of Mika Meyers 7,650 veterans start or expand their the assurance partnership. Doug has Steel Fabricating Corporation; HOK; Beckett & Jones PLC, was recently small businesses. more than 15 years of experience serv- ARUP; Quinn Evans Architects; and elected as secretary of the Grand Rapids ing as a technical resource in the C-cor- The Christman Company—have been Bar Association. Canute practices in the Kentwood - Regulus Advisors wel- poration, merger and acquisition, insur- nationally recognized with the areas of civil litigation, labor and comed Peter Starr (Wilmington, NC) ance, and banking areas for the national American Institute of Steel employment law, fraud investigation, and Brent Rhoades (Midland, MI) on tax group. Construction IDEAS2 2011 Presidential fraud litigation, and securities litigation. July 1, 2011. Award of Excellence. 7 SBA Loan Helps Doctor Transition to New Building

Kalamazoo – Women's Health Care Beyer, find how best to use their finance the purchase of land, buildings, them through the process of getting a Specialists, PC has moved into a custom resources, so that they can concentrate or equipment with a low down payment U.S. Small Business Administration 504 designed building in Kalamazoo and on serving the needs of their patients. and a low fixed rate for up to 20 years. loan. added seven new staff positions. The SBA 504 program is a perfect fit for Economic Development Foundation is a For further information, visit Through the Small Business any small business that wants to own non-profit that formed in 1981, and www.growmichigan.com or call 616- Administration 504 loan program, its own building." that works with small businesses and 459-4825. Economic Development Foundation The SBA 504 loan is designed to partner financial institutions to walk offered a low down payment and fixed rate financing to Dr. Roger Beyer, enabling him to grow his practice and Signs of Improvement in Tough Economy expand his commitment to his patients. Lansing - While the economy ing up to 20 percent from the immediate- swell from October 2010. In 1984, Dr. Beyer started his prac- remains sluggish across the state, a ly preceding survey reading of 12 percent Six-month “bottom line” expecta- tice—Women's Health Care Specialists, growing number of Michigan’s small- in October 2010. Additionally, 12 per- tions. Thirty-eight percent of those PC—with a specialization in urogyno- and mid-sized business owners believe cent of businesses said they increased surveyed said they expected their prof- cology and pelvic floor disorders. Later, things are beginning to move in the right the number of employees, while 14 per- its to increase over the next six months, two facilities in Paw Paw and direction, according to the semi-annual cent said they raised employee wages (up a six percent step-up from the 2010 Kalamazoo were leased to accommodate Future Business Index study. Six-hun- four percent from last year’s survey survey. the thriving practice. When the time dred Michigan business owners, opera- tally). Hiring and layoffs. The study came for Dr. Beyer to consolidate his tors, officers, and managers participated Other positive survey results: showed a slight, but steady, improve- facilities and build a state-of-the-art in the study, commissioned by Lansing- Six-month business outlook. Fifty- ment in the number of new jobs project- medical building with a focus on based Accident Fund Insurance Company four percent of respondents said that ed to become available in the next six increased patient care, Economic of America and conducted in June 2011 the business outlook for the next six months, with 16 percent saying they Development Foundation was able to by Marketing Resource Group, Inc. months was good, with 38 percent say- planned to hire more employees in the help Dr. Beyer transition his operations The most significant change noted ing it was “somewhat good.” Forty- next six months. Additionally, 20 per- to 7110 Stadium Drive in Kalamazoo. was with regard to investments going three percent of small business owners cent of those surveyed said they Sandy Bloem, EDF president said, back into business, specifically invest- said they expected boosted sales over planned to increase wages. "We are proud to help doctors, like Dr. ments in facilities and equipment, mov- the next six months—a nine percent 8 Award Presented to GRCC Board of Trustees for Energy-Saving Efforts Grand Rapids - The faculty and implementing the people-oriented purchases and design spaces," said GRCC culate the college's savings. She com- staff at Grand Rapids Community approach to energy conservation, and by President, Steven Ender. "And all these pares current energy use to a baseline College (GRCC) have helped GRCC maintaining productive efforts at all lev- efforts are paying off—literally." period, and calculates the amount of achieve, through energy-efficient prac- els of the organization," said Dr. William According to Energy Manager, energy that would have been used had tices, approximately $2.2 million in cost Spears, chairman and founder of Energy Dorothy Sadony, Energy Education pro- conservation and management practices savings over the past 35 months since Education. "The president and board, grams are distinctive because they help not been implemented. forming a strategic alliance with Energy along with other administration, faculty assist the college in developing a "culture "We're just asking everyone to be Education. The national energy conser- and staff members are to be commended of conservation." better stewards of our environment," vation company recently presented GRCC for being good stewards of the taxpayers' As part of the program, she com- said Sadony. "In a world of constrained with its second Energy Excellence money and the environment." piles data using a database called natural resources, the case for reducing Award; the college received its first in "Together we've worked on heating EnergyCAP. She enters the college's pollution and greenhouse gases is simply 2009. and cooling strategies; made classroom monthly utility bills, daily temperature the right thing to do." "Grand Rapids Community College use more efficient; and changed how we data, and other building information. has achieved success by consistently handle travel reimbursements, recycling, The program uses a 2007 baseline to cal- Finance/Insurance Briefs

West Michigan - Olga Hallstedt Grand Rapids - The Center for Fremont - Fremont Michigan Grand Rapids - Adam Banninga has Commercial Real Estate Services, P.C. Community Leadership welcomed five InsuraCorp, Inc. has hired Kathy joined Independent Bank as a mortgage facilitated Wade Trim’s (Detroit, MI- new members to its Management Reglin as a commercial lines production loan officer to serve customers in Kent, based) relocation to Centennial Plaza, Council, each serving a three-year term underwriter. With 25-plus years of Allegan and Ottawa Counties from the located at 2851 Charlevoix Dr. SE, Grand that began July 1, 2011: Tracy Brame, industry experience, Fremont previously Standale office, located at 4525 Lake Rapids, MI; and Weller Truck Parts assistant dean, Thomas M. Cooley Law served as a commercial underwriter for Michigan Drive, Walker. leasing of an approximate 45,000- School; Randy Locke, consumer evalu- Michigan Insurance Company. square-foot space at 7377 Expressway ation R&D manager, Amway Corp.; Lansing - Accident Fund Insurance Drive. Shelby Reno, senior vice Kalamazoo - An internationally recog- Company of America recently donated president/director of marketing commu- nized legal authority on the Foreign $5,000 to Phoenix Society of Burn Lansing – Fitch Ratings has revised the nications, Independent Bank; Carlos Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Survivors, and $5,000 to help sponsor State of Michigan’s Rating Outlook for Sanchez, executive director, West Bribery Act, Stuart Deming is a Disability Advocates’ fifth annual all bonds to Positive from Stable, and Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Washington lawyer and former federal “Invest in Ability” fundraising event, to affirmed Michigan’s General Obligation Commerce; Greg Schmidt, partner, prosecutor with the Justice Department be held held at Frederik Meijer Gardens Credit Rating “AA-.” Warner Norcross & Judd LLP. and SEC, who practices at both the and Sculpture Park on October 24, 2011. Washington, D.C. and Kalamazoo offices of Deming pllc. Grand Rapids – Baird, an international Worth Investment Group wealth management, investment bank- Grand Rapids - Lake Michigan Credit ing, asset management and private equi- Union (LMCU) announced the hiring of ty firm, has added Jeffrey Walsh as a Acquires Shane’s Group Peter Dann as the new director of funds financial advisor at its Grand Rapids Jackson – Finalized June 30, 2011, Recreation and Industrial Products management for their corporate head- wealth management office. Walsh will Worth Investment Group acquired Shane Corp.( Ontario); Biological Mediations quarters in Grand Rapids. Dann comes to work with The Braun Walsh Group. Group Capital Corp., a Michigan-based Systems (Fort Collins, CO); and the fol- LMCU from Steelcase, with 16 years of Prior to joining Baird, Walsh worked for diversified family of 15 companies with lowing Hillsdale subsidiaries: Recreation finance experience. John Hancock as a retirement plan sales 165 employees. The management team Creations; Qualite Sports Lighting; Shane associate. at each subsidiary will remain in place, Group Capital Corp; Athletic and Milwaukee, WI - John Folkert, a repre- as will the existing employees. Recreation Products; Site and Park sentative with Grand Rapids-based Grand Rapids - Lisa Raniga has joined Worth Investment Group now owns Amenities; Innovative PlaySystems; Western Michigan Group, will receive Independent Bank, at the East Beltline the following subsidiaries: American International Technology and the Top 20 award from Northwestern office in Grand Rapids, as a sales repre- Copper and Brass (Hillsdale, MI and Engineering Corp; Paramount Financial Mutual, based on his efforts at helping sentative with Independent Title Waukesha, WI); The Curtis Marketing Consulting Services; and Unique clients achieve financial security. Services. Raniga brings over seven years Corp (Hillsdale, MI and Mayodan, N.C.); Products Corp. of experience to the position.

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By Amy Cygan “Many of our Kendall graduates go on to “The office furniture industry,” said ture degree programs. From Kendall’s find success in North Carolina’s furniture Edwards, “tends to use industrial design- campus academic materials library, stu- With its abundant lumber supply, market, as High Point, N.C. is known as ers, as opposed to traditional furniture dents can explore the world’s largest mate- Grand Rapids quickly became a world- the “furniture capital of the world.” designers, for its design source, since the rials library, licensed through Material renowned residential furniture manufac- Students enrolled in Kendall’s furni- contract market’s interest is in ergonom- Connexion; information on over 4,500 turer in the latter half of the 1800s, earn- ture program—one of the oldest in the ics, problem-solving, and higher func- material characteristics is fingertip-acces- ing it the monikor, “Furniture City.” Fast country—benefit from the Furniture tional features—in addition to style.” sible. The comprehensive online inventory forward to the present day, and the city’s Design Studio and the Furniture Detailing The former Herman Miller designer allows students to keyword-search a talents haven’t fallen far from the tree. Studio (work spaces designed to meld reflects: “In the past, people were sitting in plethora of materials based on attributes Thanks to manufacturers like Steelcase, traditional and technological skills), the cubicles for eight hours of the day. But like sustainability, textual quality, and Herman Miller, Haworth, Knoll, and Resource Room (abundant with 1,500 now, people are in meetings, they’re col- post-consumer product content. American Seating, Grand Rapids has reference catalogues), and the Baker laborating, they’re mobile—and the tech- Kendall’s materials library, which is emerged as a current world leader in Furniture Collection (a 1,500-square-foot nology is mobile, smaller. As a designer currently housed in an existing gallery office furniture, and become a focal city showroom that spans three centuries of and a professor of 20 years, it has been location, will expand to an apportioned for students eyeing an education in both period furniture). interesting to watch the evolution of office space in the recently acquired Federal furniture and industrial design. Alternatively, a student might opt furniture in response to technology.” Building, once renovations are completed Ferris State University, through the for the industrial design program, eager Aside from ergonomic and techno- by the proposed date of 2012. Kendall College of Art and Design depart- to follow in the footsteps of Bill Stumpf logical considerations, contract furniture Having access to material data is still ment, is the only Michigan campus col- and Don Chadwick, whose collaborations firms also celebrate sustainable design only one part of the industrial program’s lege to offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts yielded Herman Miller such office chairs principles. Even within the traditional successful equation. (BFA) in both traditional Furniture as the Ergon (out of which morphed classes of fairly sustainable materials— “The interesting thing about our Design and Industrial Design. Equa) and the Aeron. Or, perhaps, one like wood—Edwards has observed “a industrial design program is that we are “Our furniture program is focused might aim for the heights reached by move to certain species of woods that are really teaching a process, one that is used and successful—almost exclusively con- iconic industrial designer, Henry more sustainable than others, such as the in the design of every commercial con- centrated on wood reproduction residen- Dreyfuss, who pioneered anthropometric use of bamboo in furniture.” sumer product developed, whether it’s a tial furniture, also period-inspired furni- and ergonomic design influences— Being able to analyze, contemplate, toothbrush or an automobile,” said ture,” said Tom Edwards, chair of human-form standards that are still ref- and manage the properties of design mate- Edwards. Kendall’s industrial design department. erenced today. rials is an important aspect to both furni- Continued on page 11 Communication & IT 10 Communications & IT

Grandville – Trivalent Group was recog- Madison, WI - Gina Carson has joined Grand Rapids - i3 Business Solutions Madison, WI - TDS nized by Everything Channel as part of TDS Telecommunications Corp. as the has moved its operating facilities to the Telecommunications Corp. (TDS) has CRN’s 2011 VAR500 list, which ranks new associate manager of market man- historic Grand Rapids Furniture Campus selected Phil LaForge as chief operating the largest value-added resellers, solu- agement in Michigan. She will be on the West side of downtown Grand officer of TDS Hosted & Managed tion providers, and highest producing responsible for developing business Rapids. i3 has hired Ian Kindig, account Services LLC. Prior to this role, Forge technology integrators in North America relations throughout Michigan, includ- representative; Brian Abraham, senior was vice president, general manager at by revenue size and sales earnings. ing Grand Rapids, metro-Detroit, network technician; Brian Patterson, Nimsoft in California. Kalamazoo, and Lansing. accounting intern; and McCann Beel Kalamazoo – On May 18, Western and Ryan Grutter, support technicians. Michigan University went live with the Grand Rapids - i3 Business Solutions Broncoland Tour—an interactive virtual continues to be part of HTG Peer tour, created using video game technolo- Groups. The peer group consists of up to gy, where prospective students can nav- 12 companies that collaborate to igate through a 3D replica of the main enhance each other’s professional and Large Gift Kicks Off campus. Kevin Abbott, project lead for personal development. 3D and interactive media in the Office of 125th Year Celebration Information Technology, and a team of Bellevue, WA - T-Mobile USA, Inc. has Grand Rapids – A $2 million dona- provide a sustainable source of funding eight student employees and interns, announced its new Value plans, which tion from the family of Peter Secchia for scholarships," said Cecilia spearheaded the project. are available with a two-year agreement served as the lead gift to kick off Cunningham, director of Major Gifts at for new and existing customers. The Aquinas College’s Family Legacy Aquinas College. "Endowed scholarships Grand Rapids - C/D/H has acquired the plans offer single-line and multi-line Scholarship fund. Aquinas’ 125th provide a unique opportunity to ensure Plante & Moran Web options with a range of price points for anniversary goal is to establish 125 new that a scholarship reflects the spirit and Development/SharePoint team based talk, unlimited text, and unlimited data endowed scholarships by June 30, 2012. intent of the donor. Naming an endowed in Southfield, MI. The Plante & Moran with 2 GB, 5 GB or 10 GB of high-speed "It is our hope that half of the pro- scholarship also offers the possibility to team completed its transition to C/D/H data — with no data overage charges. ceeds will be directed to provide perma- honor an individual, family or organiza- Royal Oak offices on July 15. John Customers can choose from various nent support for Aquinas' new ‘Study in tion important to the donor.” Bissa, former Plante & Moran partner, monthly plans, and only pay for the Rome’ program, a city dear to our fami- Approximately 23 percent of has become practice director for C/D/H high-speed data they need. ly," said Joan Secchia. Aquinas College students are recipients southeast Michigan. "This is a historic beginning for the of endowed scholarships. New 3G Laptop and iPad® Family Scholarship Campaign which will Data Service Los Angeles, CA - TruConnect offers wide Sprint network, covering 97 percent a breakthrough-pricing alternative where of the U.S., and is available using either users pay only for the data they con- a USB device for your laptop, or the MiFi sume. With this flexible and simple serv- that wirelessly connects up to five com- ice, an entrepreneur or business profes- puters, iPads, and other WiFi devices. sional pays $4.99 a month plus 3.9 cents The average businessperson can a megabyte for their wireless data. No save up to $600 over a standard two- contract, no activation fees, no monthly year contract with major carriers. With bill. No bundled data plans, no expira- bottom line profitability so important, it’s tion, no overage charges. frustrating to pay for wireless service Business professionals and entre- that is only used occasionally, and then preneurs know the difficult tradeoffs that to watch unused megabytes disappear at come with mobile Internet data service. the end of the month. They already pay for smartphone data Today’s other low-cost connection and office WiFi connections. And most of alternative is to use free WiFi in local cof- the time that’s enough, but occasionally fee shops and restaurants. But increas- they need wireless data access for lap- ingly, public WiFi is not a secure way to tops or iPad® to stay in touch when out send data. of the office. Does that mean subscribing TruConnect provides a completely to yet another $50-$80 mobile data safe data connection with a disruptive plan? Not now! With TruConnect’s serv- new pricing model that fits the lifestyle of ice, users are always connected, but only the sporadic mobile Internet user. pay when they use the service! Business professionals can be connected TruConnect is the “ultimate unbun- whenever they need, without wasting dle”—perfect for the business profes- money on unused service. sional who needs occasional wireless access. TruConnect runs on the nation- 11 Program Addition to Medical Mile

By Amy Cygan 25,000-square-foot space of the seventh The initiative, supported by a $6.6 another prominent profession,” said floor of 25 Michigan Street will begin million capital outlay from the Michigan Durst. “We feel that this opportunity will On December 17, 2010, the Ferris accommodating 150 third-year Doctor of Legislature, was designed “to provide create a level of collaboration that we oth- State University Board of Trustees Pharmacy students, and fourth-year stu- state-of-the-art instructional facilities and erwise wouldn’t experience if we weren’t authorized the purchase of space on dents assigned to practice sites in the interprofessional educational opportuni- so close to everything.” Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile to house Grand Rapids area, for the 2012 spring ties, and to accommodate a higher level of The space will primarily support Ferris’ College of Pharmacy program. The semester. clinical involvement for our students,” third-year students, as fourth year stu- said Interim Dean, Stephen Durst. dents tend to be on clerk-ships through- “We feel that the College of Pharmacy out the state, and will provide classrooms “Furniture City” College is a complementary addition to all of the and various labs, and will support interac- other educational programs in operation tive distance learning. The first- and sec- Continued from page 9 tive suppliers—exist, which are utilizing within the Medical Mile area—providing ond-years of the program will remain on design resources.” resources that include not only our stu- campus in Big Rapids. “And as a way of exploring the W.E. Upjohn Institute’s June 2011 dents, but also our faculty,” said Durst. Ferris’ College of Pharmacy has the process, we collaborate with local compa- Business Outlook for West Michigan sim- Essentially, students benefit from an largest program enrollment in the state, nies on real projects, some of those being ilarly highlights that “Allegan, Kent, opportune medical hub, with Spectrum and is one of three well-established phar- furniture projects.” Ottawa, and Muskegon house a well- Health, Michigan State University’s macy programs; the other two programs Edwards notes that many of the col- known office furniture cluster,” to the College of Human Medicine, and Van are those offered by the University of laborative class-projects, in turn, gener- point that the area “could be labeled a Andel Research Institute all within walk- Michigan and Wayne State University. ate internships, which then lead to full- region,” by some definitions of the word. ing distance from the new location. time employment, as was the case with The historical rapport of Grand “A great step forward has been taken two Kendall students who were hired Rapids as a furniture industry staple with the Medical Mile’s acquisition of after graduation by Wolverine complemented by Kendall’s nationally- Worldwide. recognized educational rapport have gar- One of the advantages that Michigan nered recognition from Kendall graduates holds with regard to industry employ- for years. With BIFMA anticipating a 14 ment is “the area need for design percent increase in U.S. office furniture resources,” as Edwards stated. “There’s a production by the end of 2011 and an 8.4 nice manufacturing belt between Detroit percent by 2012’s end, Kendall’s and Chicago where multiple manufactur- enrollees and graduates can look for the ing company headquarters—Bissel, design of a forward momentum. Whirlpool, furniture companies, automo- Post 9/11 Veterans Encouraged to Use GI Bill Lansing - Jason Allen, the senior women who have spent the last 10 years deputy director of Michigan's Veterans serving in the Gulf. The GI Bill can cover Affairs (VA) Directorate, encourages up to the highest in-state tuition for a Michigan's post-9/11 veterans to explore veteran, and include both a book and the opportunities available to them housing allowance. through VA education benefits. "In 2010, according to the VA, "Many of Michigan's veterans who 13,759 veterans in Michigan were have served since 9/11 don't realize they receiving educational benefits. This is may be eligible for education benefits. To great news, but we want to see more. receive assistance in applying for such The generation after WWII significantly benefits, veterans can contact a county utilized their GI benefits, launched their veterans' affairs office or a veteran’s careers, and changed our country; in service organization," said Allen. fact, Gerald R. Ford, the only President to The Post-9/11 GI Bill, signed into hail from Michigan, was a product of the law just over 3 years ago, vastly expands GI Bill. These young men and women opportunities for post-9/11 veterans. Not have that same opportunity, and we want only do benefits cover traditional to help them seize it," said Allen. avenues of higher education, but effec- For more information on how to tive October 2011, those veterans may contact a county counselor, please visit utilize their benefits to pursue vocational the Michigan Veterans Affairs website at education. While other students are see- www.michigan.gov/veterans. To contact ing the cost of higher education continue the state’s Veterans Affairs Directorate, to rise, Congress has made education email: [email protected] or call more attainable for those men and (517) 335-6523. 12 Education Briefs

Big Rapids – The Ferris State University first professional students for the 2011- for undergraduate programs. provides interactive 360-degree Board of Trustees has voted to extend 12 academic year, and 5.11% for gradu- Deshpande will oversee graduate pro- ground-level photos of special attrac- David Eisler’s contract as university ate students. Ferris reduced its budget by grams; staff development; research tions around the world. A Google Street president through June 30, 2016, and to $8 million to help minimize a student support; computing technologies; View team visited Ferris campus, cap- increase Eisler’s base compensation by tuition increase. Association to Advance Collegiate turing images from a “Street View 2.25%; he turned down offered increases Schools of Business accreditation; space Trike,” a 250-pound, three-wheel pedi- in 2009 and 2010. Eisler has served as Kalamazoo - The Haworth College of allocation; global programs; and vari- cab with a camera system on top. The Ferris president since July 2003. Business at Western Michigan ous centers within the college. Stamper images will be stitched into panoramic University has appointed Dr. Satish will oversee undergraduate programs views and viewable on Google Maps in Big Rapids - The Ferris State University Deshpande as associate dean for oper- and enrollment; the academic advising the coming months. Board of Trustees has restrained tuition ations and graduate programs, and Dr. office; and the career center. growth to 5.14% for undergraduate and Christina Stamper as associate dean Baltimore, MD – In a historic action, West Michigan - The West Michigan Maryland has become the first state in Internship Initiative has been award- the country to require its high school Master’s Program ed a $10,000 grant from the Grand seniors be environmentally literate in Rapids Community Foundation to order to graduate. Forty eight other Approved by MDE support outreach to nonprofit employ- states are in various stages of their own ers in Kent County. The 2009 goal of environmental literacy plans. Big Rapids - Ferris State issues through four lenses: Leadership, the West Michigan Internship Initiative University’s School of Education was management, risk management, and the was to create 3,000 new internship Big Rapids – Ferris State University’s strengthened as its Master of Science in future. opportunities in the region by the end Board of Trustees has approved two Educational Leadership was approved by Ferris’ Master of Science in of 2011, of which 1,500 internships new programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts the Michigan Department of Education, Educational Leadership includes a struc- have been established. Currently, at in Collaborative Design and a allowing program graduates to apply for tured six-credit internship that students 25.9%, West Michigan’s Educational Bachelor of Fine Arts in Medical kindergarten through 12th grade admin- complete in two semesters. As part of Attainment (the percentage of the pop- Illustration for Kendall; enrollment istrative certification in the state of this internship, students will apply the ulation ages 25 to 34 with B.A. degrees begins with the fall 2012 semester. The Michigan. administrative concepts and skills that A team of faculty, staff and former they have acquired through their course- or higher) is lower than the national BFA in Collaborative Design will be administrators collaborated to develop work, at their local district under the and state percentages. among the first of its kind nationally, an innovative master’s degree program supervision of both local administrators for undergraduate students. that would examine K-12 administrative and a university supervisor. Big Rapids – Ferris State University is participating in the Google Maps Street View Partner Program, which Semester in London Battle Creek – Kellogg Community College (KCC) will pilot a study-abroad semester in London, England during the spring 2012 semester, which begins January 17, 2012. Up to 24 registered students will stay in London for a total of 12 weeks. The semester in London program, developed by Michelle Wright, KCC history professor, will be the first of its kind for a Michigan community college. The students will take Kellogg Community College courses at the University of London and stay in the Kensington, London area. Seven different courses, designed to meet the12-credit- hour minimum and transferrable to most four-year schools neighboring KCC, will be offered through the program. The cost of the trip per student will approximate $11,250, but will depend on the final number of students participating in the program. The cost includes accommodations, insurance, liability, field trips, the deposit on accommodations, a pre-departure orientation, a trip to Paris, books, airfare, transportation around London, theater tickers, cultural excursions, support services, Internet access, tuition (at KCC rates), and supplies. Passport fees, transportation to and from the airport in the U.S., meals, and spending money are not included. 13 Aviation Program Maps its Territory

Continued from page 5 you can get in general aviation aircraft to one Piper Super Cub on amphibious float. Thinnes: “Unfortunately, the face of the avionics in the 737 or the regional Maintenance students perform on various aviation since 1903 has been that of the “We became one of the first collegiate jet, such as a CRJ200,” said Thinnes. non-flying planes, like the King Air, the white male, but now we have an indus- aviation programs to adopt what’s known “With most companies trending toward Cessna 172, or the Merlin. This September, try-wide push and emphasis for diversi- as ‘glass cockpits’—these are the ‘avion- glass cockpits now, our aviation students the College will also accept a FedEx 727, fication. In our programs, about 10 per- ics’ used to fly the plane, which basically are at a significant advantage through donated by the Organization of Black cent are women; ultimately, with the look like two, 10-inch computer screens.” their ability to interface with the R9- Aerospace Professionals. “The opportunity strategic plan that we’ve put in place, we Students can expect to amass a equipped aircraft, such that when they go will equip our maintenance technology want to be reflective of the community at wealth of system-interfacing experience, to fly a CRJ200 for Pinnacle Airlines, students with a better understanding of large.” regardless of one’s career direction, with they’re not looking at foreign systems.” aircraft systems integrated throughout a Working alongside international and the recent introduction of the Avidyne WMU’s aircraft fleet consists of: commercial airliner,” said Thinnes. national organizations, like OBAP and R9—synonymous with FMS, or “Flight Twenty-six Cirrus SR20s (all equipped Another highlight to the aviation pro- Women in Aviation International, Management System.” with the R9); and a twin-engine fleet of six gram is that last year, WMU was one of Thinnes intimates the university’s con- “The FMS system itself is the closest Piper Seminoles, two Piper Arrows, and only 36 colleges—and the only Michigan certed effort to increasing the role of college—selected to host the 1990- underrepresented groups in the industry launched Federal Aviation by bringing a much-needed awareness of Administration’s Air Traffic Collegiate opportunities in the aviation industry, Ferris/Rapid Commute Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program. The not only to career-minded adults, but to elective courses essentially “piggyback the younger generation as well. Big Rapids – Ferris State University is want to enroll in the ridership program, collaborating with The Rapid to launch a will be released from their housing obliga- onto one of our degree programs, primari- Thinnes works with different age new service that will provide bus trans- tion if they meet eligibility requirements, ly, either Flight Science, or Science and groups at schools like Davis Aerospace portation between Grand Rapids and Big and if their student accounts show they Administration,” said Thinnes. “By cou- (Detroit), Washington Writers’ Academy Rapids, beginning Aug. 29, 2011. have purchased a shuttle bus card for each pling a bachelor’s degree in Flight Science, (Kalamazoo) and Battle Creek Public The service, approved by both the semester. or Science and Administration, with com- Schools, “to use aviation as a catalyst to Ferris Board of Trustees and The Rapid The daily shuttle bus route originates pleted AT-CTI courses, one is then quali- encourage excitement about learning the Board of Directors, will run Monday at 250 Grandville Ave. SW. The trip to and fied to apply to the air traffic control STEM subject areas—science, technolo- through Friday from 6:25 a.m. to 9:05 from Ferris’ main campus in Big Rapids school through the FAA.” WMU’s first AT- gy, engineering, and math—which are p.m. during the fall and spring semesters. includes one scheduled stop at the Meijer CTI classes will begin in Fall 2011. the key subjects on which an aviation The Rapid shuttle service is primarily store in Cedar Springs, located at 3700 17 While an aviation career can be career is founded,” said Thinnes. intended for current and prospective Ferris Mile Road. quite exciting and lucrative, Thinnes has He continued, “What we see in avi- students who permanently reside in Kent Students, faculty and staff can pur- observed that the industry is unfortu- ation is that you almost have to be bitten County and who are already enrolled, or chase a shuttle bus card, similar to Ferris’ nately one-sided and lacking in diversity. by the bug early, and be exposed to it—it intend to enroll, in classes on the universi- Bulldog Card, for unlimited use for $700 To address this, the role of women and becomes a passion.” From there, the ty’s Big Rapids campus. Students who are per semester. Financial Aid award pack- minorities in aviation is something WMU sky’s the limit! required to live on the Big Rapids campus ages do include commuter cost for stu- is dedicated to increasing. for the fall/spring semesters, and who dents who do not live on campus. Community Partnership Fund Invests $3.8 Million Kalamazoo - The Michigan Strategic support in commercializing novel tech- Fund will invest $3.8 million in a nologies in the life sciences throughout Funds Scholarships Western Michigan University initiative the state of Michigan. Grand Rapids - The Great Start Michigan United Way and several local aimed at further development of life sci- Established in 2003 with an initial Collaborative—in partnership with First foundations also are contributing to the ence-startups in Michigan. cash infusion of $10 million from the Steps, the Heart of West Michigan United scholarship fund. The recipient of the award is WMU's Michigan Economic Development Corp., Way, and Kent Regional 4C—has The initial $400,000 from ECIC will Biosciences Research and the BRCC has helped create 30 Michigan announced an $800,000 Great Start Early be used in the 2011-2012 school year, Commercialization Center (BRCC), a companies and more than 200 high-pay- Childhood Scholarship Fund, which will providing scholarships to approximately seven-year-old entity that has been ing jobs. With every dollar of the original provide scholarships to three-year-old 100 three-year-olds from low-income placed under the auspices of the $10 million invested in startup compa- children so that they may attend a high- families. The remaining $400,000 will be University's new School of Medicine. nies, new funding will help the center quality child care center or preschool. used to serve another group of three- Managed by the medical school's Office of transition to a new fund, dubbed BRCC- The scholarship fund is made possi- year-olds in 2012-2013. During that Research, the new fund will further its II. ble by a $400,000 grant from the Early time, partners will evaluate the impact of Childhood Investment Corporation the scholarship program. (ECIC), which awarded a total of $3 mil- The child care centers and lion in scholarship funds to Great Start preschools that will participate have been Collaboratives across the state. Each selected already. They all are in, or near, community is required to secure a dollar- underserved neighborhoods of Kent for-dollar match in private investment. County, and meet the scholarship pro- In Kent County, that commitment is led gram’s quality standards. Kent Regional by a $300,000 grant from the W.K. 4C is recruiting families for the program. Kellogg Foundation. The Heart of West Visit www.greatstartkent.org. 14 PROPRIO FOOT® Flexes Prosthetic Realism By Amy Cygan lifestyle with the modernized PROPRIO smoother gait symmetry and cadence, nology: Mimics the energy-driven FOOT®—a prosthetic solution that replicated foot spring action, fuller ankle motion of a human foot Many of us are oblivious to the Ossur, a global developer of scientifical- range-of-motion, and less stress on the Accelerometers and ankle sensors: countless muscles and brain signals ly-designed orthopedic prosthetics, residual limbs, hips, knees, and back. Directed at ankle angulation, for easier involved in the lifting and stepping of launched in September 2006, although “Unlike the non-computerized feet, stair-stepping and sit-stands our feet. We take for granted our seem- the foot had been in circulation amongst today’s higher performance, lightweight, Tight-knit Flex Foot Socks: Protects ingly natural and easy ability to step off military amputees for a short while. carbon fiber feet can flex, recoil, and module from dust and grit; available in a curb, climb a few stairs, or stroll The durable, corrosion-resistant, store and release energy as the step is small, junior, and large sizes through a park. But imagine you are a aluminum-framed, carbon fiber PRO- articulated,” said White. “Additionally, Heel-height adjustment: Allows war veteran or an accident victim who PRIO FOOT weighs 2.2 lbs., and accom- the PROPRIO FOOT has an internal com- users to more easily transition to differ- has lost a foot. How do you physically modates a weight limit up to 255 lbs. A puter with a mind of its own that reads ent heel-sized shoes and mentally adjust to the change? rechargeable, lithium ion battery actu- the terrain as you walk with it, allowing One significant drawback to the Mercy Health Partners’ Leslie ates internal sensory components that one to seamlessly adjust to inclines and PROPRIO FOOT is explained by Swanker, manager - Orthotics & utilize the patented artificial intelligence, declines.” Swanker: “It’s an expensive, costly item. Prosthetics, and Darrell White, pros- Terrain Logic. Through the reading of “The non-computerized foot goes We have fit a few PROPRIO FOOT, a few thetist, have been helping transtibial ground elevations and depressions, from a heel strike to your foot flopping computerized knees, but not every per- amputees acclimate to an ambulatory Ossur’s Bionic technology allows for down,” added Swanker. “The PROPRIO son out there fits the model for it—either FOOT allows for more customary heel- due to criteria or cost.” And costs have to-toe articulation.” She also notes that not tapered off much in the last five Architectural Engineering “squaring off from the socket” (as years. helped, for example, by certain, fitted “Because one is an amputee, does computerized knees for above-knee not mean one automatically qualifies for Firm Selected amputees), better influences normal a PROPRIO FOOT,” continues Swanker. Kalamazoo - The S/L/A/M The WMU president, hospital CEOs and ambulation. “There are certain functional levels Collaborative, a nationally known, medical school dean comprise the steer- While White points out that the which one must be at, in order to justify Connecticut-based architectural and ing committee. PROPRIO FOOT is not the most cosmet- to insurance providers that one meets engineering firm with an extensive port- Based in Glastonbury, Conn., the ically appealing and that some patients the necessary physical requirements to folio in medical and health science facili- 150-member SLAM also has offices in find the device a bit bulky and weighty, receive a PROPRIO FOOT.” The levels ties, has been selected as the design firm Atlanta, Boston and Syracuse, N.Y. For one of the foot’s more appealing features range from K0-K4, with K4 representing for the Western Michigan University the WMU School of Medicine work, is its Flex Foot Split Toe design. The foot the most active individual; generally, the School of Medicine. SLAM will partner with a well-known allows adjustment to uneven terrains, more active the individual, the higher The firm was selected from a Kalamazoo-area firm, Diekema Hamann and by allowing for toe-lift each time the their chance in qualifying for the FOOT. national field of companies seeking the Architecture and Engineering, which has foot swings forward, the feature opti- White returns to the more impor- role, according to officials on the medical extensive experience in the medical facil- mizes balance and stability; in turn cre- tant desire of the amputee: “For the school's facilities committee. That com- ity arena as well. ating user confidence and faster ambu- patient—they want what they lost. They mittee screened the original 25 applicant SLAM also will work with a con- latory speeds. The design also helps want the closest thing to the function of firms, narrowed the list to a field of final- struction management firm, the selection reduce bodily impact when loading their natural ankle and foot. They want ists and made a final recommendation to of which is now under way. The name of (when the user’s body weight is shifting the smooth roll from the heel to toe, and the school's steering committee for final the construction firm will be announced to the prosthetic limb). a comfortable fit with the socket.” decision. this fall. SLAM and the construction Other characteristics of the PRO- Essentially, the PROPRIO FOOT— The new medical school is a part- manager are expected to work together PRIO FOOT include: through its functional interpretation of a nership involving WMU and to provide feedback on such high-priori- Carbon-X Active Heel: Absorbs human foot—is able to answer the active Kalamazoo's two teaching hospitals, ty issues as site selection. shock associated with heel-strike individual, with a certain level of Borgess Health and Bronson Healthcare. Energy Vector Optimization tech- lifestyle normalcy. First Michigan Hospital to Offer Guided Spine Surgery Wyoming – Metro Health Hospital Renaissance features a surgical make adjustments) and improving then, to be very particular and controlled has become the first and only hospital in device that is mounted on the patient’s patient recovery times. while placing implants in the spine. Michigan to utilize the advanced technol- back, allowing for greater precision in “Robotic systems allow surgeons to Surgery with Renaissance is faster, so ogy of Renaissance™ for computer-guid- the placement of spinal implants during operate with better visualization, preci- less time is spent in the OR. The device ed complex spine surgeries. surgery. The robotic system also reduces sion, dexterity, and control than is possi- also helps minimize trauma to the spinal Metro Health began using the need for X-rays and decreases the ble using traditional approaches and muscular structure, so that patients can Renaissance in May, in a move to expand amount of radiation that patients are technology,” says Dr. John F. Keller, a heal faster and more comfortably.” its robotic surgery options for patients— exposed to. Metro Health surgeon who specializes in Surgeons use a standard computer- following the 2008 implementation of Renaissance can be used for tradi- brain and spine disorders. “We are very ized tomography scan, prior to the sur- the da Vinci® Surgical System, a robotic tional open/invasive or minimally inva- pleased to be the first hospital in the gery, to map out the entire procedure. system that allows surgeons to perform sive surgeries. The device allows sur- state to utilize Renaissance. They then use Renaissance to pinpoint minimally invasive kidney, prostate, and geons more precise initial placement, “Renaissance allows surgeons to the implant locations before operating. gynecological procedures. reducing the need for future surgeries (to map out the surgery beforehand and 15 Serving Senior Needs in a Pilgrim Manner By Amy Cygan specialized and complex care needs. “This is an area where Pilgrim sions. The magazine’s content attempts Proactively developing our capacity and Manor possesses a great deal of expert- to bridge the information gap by recog- Located on the northeast side of skill sets to handle these needs are of ise,” explained Mack. “It makes sense nizing, discussing, and problem-solving Grand Rapids, Michigan, Pilgrim Manor critical importance to us and the people that we leverage that capability to serve the issues surrounding senior lifestyles Retirement Community—affiliated with we serve.” a larger population.” and care needs. An e-version of Journey the United Church of Christ—has deliv- Data gathered by Pilgrim Manor, Pilgrim Manor has also introduced GR and an interactive website are ered short term rehab, assisted living, from sources including the West the community to available educational planned for the near future. and long-term care services to area sen- Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer’s resources. According to Mack, “The “We want to shift the focus away iors since 1963. In response to a peak- Association and the Area Agency on learning curve for seniors, who need from the ‘come stay with us’ mentality, to ing baby-boomer sector, a rising Aging of Kent County, indicates a grow- care services, and their families, is often deliver a broad range of services where demand for memory-care support serv- ing need for dementia care options. steep, fast and urgent.” Mack common- and when senior adults need and want ices, and a desire from seniors to remain “Something in the neighborhood of ly finds himself talking with the adult them,” said Mack. “We recognize that in their homes for as long as possible, 30 percent of adults over the age of 65 in children of seniors who are not only most people prefer to be at home for as Pilgrim Manor is pursuing options to Kent County, are coping with some form tasked with the job of educating them- long as possible. We want to unite with enhance their existing service lines. of dementia,” said Mack. “Pilgrim Manor selves about a parent’s medical condi- their families in supporting that desire.” According to Pilgrim Manor’s Director of and all the other providers put together tion, but who also face the burden of Battling his greatest fear “that Marketing & Admissions, Brian Mack, cannot currently meet all the needs of seeking out health care solutions under inevitably there’s going to be someone the organization’s goal is “to push our this growing population. Our intention is very tight time constraints. who just isn’t willing to be served, can’t expertise out into the community, based to do more to address this need.” To assist in delivering this impor- be served, or can’t afford to be served,” on the needs in the market.” Pilgrim Manor plans to bolster its tant information, Pilgrim Manor has Pilgrim Manor continues to nurture its “Pilgrim Manor,” explained Mack mission to provide programs targeted launched an educational publication vision to be an integrated healthcare “needs to be positioned to operate in a specifically at memory care, by expand- called Journey GR. The quarterly system for seniors. ‘post-Affordable Care Act’ world, which ing its focus on residential dementia lifestyle magazine debuted in June “We need to aid as many people as will require the development of skilled services as well as community-based 2011. Feature writers include experts we can. If we can move the needle, even settings—external to the hospital envi- delivery models, through their home care from across West Michigan who repre- just a little bit, it will have a positive ronment—capable of handling more subsidiary, Pilgrim Care Home Services. sent a broad cross-section of profes- impact on our community.” Mental Health Education through Live Laugh Love Grand Rapids - The Mental Health which supports and understands people The Live Laugh Love Program students throughout Kent County. Foundation (MHF) was created in 1990 with mental illness,” the Live Laugh includes a variety of interactive lessons In addition to bringing the Live by Touchstone innovare, the largest case Love: Educating Youth about Mental that help students, parents and teachers Laugh Love Program to schools, the management agency in Kent County Health Program was born. recognize the symptoms of depression, MHF has developed presentations about serving the mentally ill population. The In 2006, MHF received a Federal and the warning signs of suicide in mental illness for companies and com- Foundation was created in order to Block Grant to pilot the Live Laugh Love themselves, a friend or family member. munities since, according to the establish a compassionate, educated, program. The block grant ended in The educational program also encour- American Psychiatric Association, one and involved community regarding 2007; consequently, the sustainability of ages students to set aside stereotypes; to in four adults suffers from a diagnosable mental health awareness. One major the program has depended upon funding give fellow classmates understanding, mental health disorder in a given year. goal of MHF has always been to reduce from grants, foundations, fundraising compassion and acceptance; and to seek The World Health Organization also the demoralizing stigma associated with efforts, and private donations. Now treatment if they are personally affected cited depression as the leading cause of mental illness; stigma is the primary entering its seventh year, the education by mental illness, despite any associated disability in the United States—above barrier to people seeking treatment. program has not only managed to sus- stigma. back problems, heart disease and liver In 2004, Kent County Suicide tain itself, but has expanded as well. Sadly, only 10 percent of school failure. Armed with such facts, the Coalition studies showed an increase in Early childhood years are the most systems across America have a compre- Mental Health Foundation believes its death by suicide among Kent County important time to prevent mental health hensive mental health program in their program can enrich every company and teenagers between the ages of 14 and disorders and promote healthy behavior. schools. This year, the Live Laugh Love civic organization, and every person 24. The numbers prompted Executive While childhood suicide is very uncom- Program was taught in Grandville, regardless of age. Director Christy Buck, and her staff, to mon, death from suicide is the second Grand Rapids, Wyoming, and Forest For more information on MHF, visit take action! In line with MHF’s mission leading cause of death among high Hills Public School Districts; the program www.themhf.org. “to create and sustain a community school students in Kent County. has been presented to more than 10,000

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Lansing – At the Annual Membership Allegan - Amanda Haverdink has Grand Rapids – Spectrum Health Kalamazoo - Borgess Health Meeting of the Michigan Health & joined Allegan General Hospital as the received recognition in three categories Administration welcomes Dr. Robert Hospital Association (MHA), several new chief risk and compliance officer. in the U.S. News Media & World 2011- Hill, vice president of medical affairs; individuals who have greatly influenced Previously, Amanda had served at 12 Best Hospitals Rankings: Nationally and Stacey Watson, vice president of health care across the state were hon- Battle Creek Health System as the ranked among the top 50 hospitals in clinical care integration. ored. Receiving the 2011 Meritorious manager of legal services, integrity, and diabetes and endocrinology care; recog- Service Award were Burton Parks, pres- risk management. nized as the top healthcare provider in Grand Rapids - Grand Rapids ident, West Shore Medical Center; and Grand Rapids; and listed as high per- Ophthalmology welcomes Dr. Rosanne Bruce Traverse, president, Carson City Grand Rapids - Pine Rest Christian forming in 10 specialty categories (can- Pruis, its new laser vision coordinator, Hospital. Jerry Welsh, president and Mental Health Services has selected cer; cardiology and heart surgery; ear, and Dr. Annessa Dix, who will serve chief executive officer of HPS, received Jane Konyndyk as the new director of nose and throat; nephrology; urology; patients in the Walker, Grandville and the 2011 Special Recognition Award. operations for community and residen- gastroenterology; geriatrics; gynecology; East Beltline locations. Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley received tial services, to be part of the senior orthopedics; and pulmonology). the Special Recognition Award while leadership team and to oversee the clin- Big Rapids – Dr. Matthew Maki assumed Michigan Secretary of State, Ruth ical operations of the community and Grand Rapids - Pine Rest Christian the role of president of the Michigan Johnson, was heralded for her leader- residential services division of Pine Rest. Mental Health Services welcomes to its Optometric Association Board of ship in improving organ and tissue hospital based services, Patricia Directors in July. Maki will oversee all donation. Grand Rapids - Steve Swanson has Kennedy as the new director of quality, officers and trustees as the organization’s been appointed president and COO of and psychiatrist Raed Yousif, M.D., 2011-12 board now is set. Lansing - Gov. Rick Snyder has Imperial, and CEO of DAC Patient who works as an inpatient physician. appointed to the Michigan Board of Recruitment Services. Swanson previ- Grand Rapids – Spectrum Health is par- Pharmacy: Patricia Harney, business ously served as Imperial’s vice president Muskegon – Muskegon Community ticipating in the Medtronic CoreValve development and legislative affairs man- and COO, a position he held since joining Health Project, the Community Benefit U.S. Clinical Trial to evaluate a tran- ager - Hospice of Michigan; Nichole the executive team in 2006. Office of Mercy Health Partners was scatheter alternative to open-heart sur- Penny, district pharmacy supervisor - awarded a grant from the March of gery for patients with severe aortic Walgreens; Suit Hing Moy-Sandusky, Grand Rapids – Veteran dentist Kenneth Dimes Michigan Chapter to provide risk stenosis who are at high risk or are inel- psychiatry clinical pharmacist specialist - Weddell D.D.S. joins Partners in education and services to low-income, igible for open-heart surgery. The trial, Veterans Affairs Hospital, and presi- Dental Care (Grand Rapids). Weddell high-risk pregnant women. The grant expected to last five years, is underway dent - Drug Therapy Consultants Inc.; leaves Fremont Dental Associates, a supports utilizing a U.S. Dept. of Health at the Fred and Lena Meijer Heart and Patricia Smeelink, owner - East practice he owned, operated, and was & Human Services, Agency for Center. Paris Pharmacy, and adjunct faculty employed at for 17 years. Healthcare Research and Quality member - Ferris State University. “National Innovation” model to reduce Gaylord - Otsego Memorial Hospital Kalamazoo - Borgess VNA Home the risk of low-birth-weight babies by (OMH) in Gaylord has joined Helen Grand Rapids - Elias Neujahr has been Health & Hospice programs have improving access to adequate medical DeVos Children’s Hospital’s Partners named vice president, operations, achieved Home Care accreditation from care, social services and education. in Children’s Health, becoming one of 31 Spectrum Health Medical Group and The Joint Commission (JRC) for demon- affiliated hospitals. The affiliation pro- Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. strating compliance with both the JRC, Holland – Holland Hospital welcomes vides for pediatric-specific continuing Neujahr will manage medical group and and the Centers for Medicare and Hospitalists Corie Eklov, MD; Lauren medical education programming, and hospital operations. Medicaid Services Conditions of Buckles, D.O.; and Matthew Fletcher, advocacy for children’s health and safe- Participation requirements. D.O. A. ty in Gaylord, among other allowances. Michigan’s First Minimally Invasive Treatment for Esophageal Cancer Grand Rapids - In June 2011, two to treat cancer, while leading bariatric 10 years, previously at the University of abdominal and chest incisions that are of West Michigan’s leading surgeons surgeon, Kemmeter, has utilized his Vermont and now, at The Lacks Cancer often a part of esophageal resection. collaborated together to perform skills in minimally invasive stomach sur- Center. Although this type of cancer has a Michigan’s first laparoscopic transhiatal gery to form a new esophagus out of the “I have been pursuing a minimally grim prognosis—according to the esophagectomy. The minimally invasive stomach to reestablish intestinal continu- invasive approach for a full decade American Cancer Society, 16,500 people procedure was performed laparoscopi- ity. now,” said McCahill. “I have come close, were diagnosed with esophageal cancer cally, meaning only small incisions were “Dr. McCahill is quite an extraordi- but always needed to have an open in 2010, and more than 14,300 died from utilized. nary visionary to be able to integrate abdominal incision to complete the pro- this cancer that same year—Saint Mary’s Larry McCahill, MD, medical director the fields of cancer surgery with cedure. In teaming with Dr. Kemmeter, is hoping that the laparoscopic surgery of Surgical Oncology and assistant direc- bariatric surgery for the benefit of we cleared this last hurdle.” will improve outcomes for patients, tor at The Lacks Cancer Center at Saint patient care,” said Kemmeter. The laparoscopic surgery is per- shorten surgery times and recovery peri- Mary’s, led an initiative that combined Although marking his first total formed through several small incisions, ods, lessen pain, and prompt a return to his skills with those of Paul Kemmeter, laparoscopic transhiatal esophagectomy, each about an inch long. Using a video work as well as a return to diet within MD, medical director of Bariatric Surgery McCahill is a renowned surgical oncolo- camera and laparoscopic instruments, three days of surgery. at Saint Mary’s Health Care. McCahill has gist who has performed laparoscopic- the esophagus is removed and replaced routinely performed esophageal surgery assisted esophagectomies over the past with the stomach, avoiding the large 17 Illuminating the Future By Brian Van Haren are applications that are already viable— efficiency drops; these issues are key to a.m. over one worker’s desk, and brighter maybe that 20’ ceiling in your home. LED proper lamp and fixture design, and lights turning on at 8:00 a.m. over anoth- We are on the threshold of some rev- fixtures are now commonly specified and application er worker’s desk. Then imagine changing olutionary changes in the lighting indus- applied in commercial projects for park- New lamp and fixture options with a the light level, the on/off schedule, or try. Two developing technologies will ing lot lighting, for display lighting, and variety of performance characteristics: even the light switch that controls each unfold over the next few years: The first as replacements for incandescent, Engage a contractor or consultant when fixture, by simply touching the graphic will utilize computer chips to produce the recessed fixtures. Most of the major fix- considering what to purchase, as technol- fixture icons on your iPad. Sound like a light for the general illumination of build- ture manufacturers are expanding their ogy is developing, and poor application great way to satisfy the different lighting ings, roadways, and parking lots; and the LED offerings into fixtures of different could result in unsatisfactory lighting, desires of your workforce to improve second will take advantage of wireless shapes and styles. premature lamp failure, or expensive their satisfaction and productivity? communication capabilities. Advantages of LEDs: relamping, to name a few Sound like a great way to save electrical The First: LED Lighting High efficiency: Similar to fluores- The Second: Lighting Controls energy costs and reduce your carbon Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are cent; increasing with new technologies Each year, numerous features are footprint? electronic devices made from the semi- Long lamp life: Up to 100,000 hours, added to lighting control systems, and This technology is more of a reality conductor materials that are in the same although usually published at 50,000 the cost of systems continues to drop. than you might imagine. Some facilities family as the micro chips in your cell hours, as compared to 750-2,000 hrs. for The combination of advancements in (Michigan State University’s new Medical phone or computer. Red light emitting incandescent, and 8,000-20,000 hrs. for wireless data communication, and elec- School on Michigan Street, to name one) diodes were first introduced in the early most fluorescent tronic ballasts and LED power supplies have already installed this capability— sixties, and were widely used as indicat- Compact size: Can be integrated into will soon yield extreme flexibility in light- except for the iPad interface—but it’s not ing lights. Other colors—blue, yellow, very small light fixtures ing control. hard to imagine that somewhere, an amber and white—emerged in the Precise beam control: Perfect for dis- You are probably already familiar interface app is being developed. While nineties. Many in the electrical and elec- play lighting; fixture optics can be with wireless communication—used for the technology is currently not wide- tronic industries remember LEDs serving designed for even illumination at lower your iPad and smart phone, and for the spread enough to be cost effective for as the light source in the early headlamp- levels (for parking lots and parking Wi-Fi connection to your laptop. What most applications, watch for costs to style flash lights, and later, in flat screen decks) you may not know is that most light fix- creep down, and for this technology to TVs and monitors. Instant “on” operation, and no loss tures have a ballast—a “black box” that become more readily available and wide- The challenge has been to develop in lamp life from multiple on-off cycles: allows them to work properly. Over the ly used over the next few years. manufacturing processes that cost-effec- Perfect for multi-level operations last 10 years, the components of that tively produce LEDs. The recent develop- Good color rendering: Color “black box” have changed to electronic Brian Van Haren is president of Van ment of using a phosphor coating (a sim- Rendering Index of 80 out of a possible computer chips. Add the wireless circuit- Haren Electric, a local electrical contract- ilar coating used for fluorescent lamps) 100; similar to most fluorescent ry to the electronic chip in the “black ing firm. Van Haren is unique, in that he for LEDs is the latest technique that has Dimmable box” and viola—something brand new! is both an electrical engineer and a mas- both enhanced the lighting output and Color: Multiple colors available; color Imagine pulling up on your iPad, a ter electrician, with a combined 30+ reduced the cost of production—driving changing ability available (although at a graphic display of the light fixtures in years of industry experience. Contact him significant change in the lamp and light premium cost) your facility, and reconfiguring the way at 616-878-3000 or email: bvan- fixture industry. Absence of mercury each individual light fixture is controlled. [email protected]. Look at the lamp section the next Limitations of LEDs: Picture dimmed lights turning on at 6:00 time you are in a big box store (Lowe’s, Cost premium over other sources: Home Depot, Menards) and you will find Costs are coming down, however LED replacement lamps are already avail- Limited temperature tolerance: At Current Business Trends: able. The cost is still fairly high, but there higher temperatures, life is reduced and Growth Rate Turns Modest LEDdynamics and ilumisys Grand Rapids - The greater Grand second half of the year is now growing Rapids industrial economy is experienc- more questionable.” ing modest growth, according to the Long said the uptick for the 2012 Announce Partnership results of a monthly survey compiled by model year is well underway for automo- Troy - ilumisys, Inc., developer and percent U.S. manufacturing for over 10 Brian G. Long, director of Supply tive parts producers but production producer of next-generation solid-state years,” said William McGrath, president Management Research in the Seidman schedules for the rest of the year are not lighting technology, has partnered with and CTO of LEDdynamics. “We believe College of Business at Grand Valley State as optimistic as they were a few months Vermont-based LEDdynamics, Inc. The that this partnership will result in University. ago. He said the office furniture market partnership includes a license for Altair’s increased market share, and strengthen The survey results are based on data remains positive and for the third month patents on light-emitting diode (LED) the ability of both companies to develop collected in the last two weeks of July. The in a row, industrial distributors came in fluorescent tube replacements. and manufacture the most innovative, survey’s index of business improvement, fairly positive. “LEDdynamics is an established high quality LED products and technolo- called new orders, edged lower to +17 from Long added: “Congress has passed a industry leader in solid-state lighting, and gies available.” +23. The production index eased to +21 framework for a modest deficit reduction we look forward to working together to ilumisys, formed in 2007, is a spin- from +26. The index of purchases back- package along with an extension of the address the growing market demand for off of Altair, a global software and tech- tracked to +23 from +29. The only modest debt ceiling. A promise for $6 trillion LED lighting solutions,” said Dave Simon, nology company with a presence in the uptick this month came from the employ- worth of reductions that was touted a few president of ilumisys. “We are excited at energy market. With the backing of ment index, which rose to +37 from +34. weeks ago was downgraded to a small the growth prospects for both organiza- Altair, its majority owner, ilumisys “Overall, local statistics are actually fraction. As expected, creditors around tions as ilumisys ramps up our Michigan- investments in research and development stronger than the rest of the country and the world were also expecting a more based manufacturing operations.” include more than 50 patent applications we are still on track for continued eco- robust package and their displeasure has “We have been committed to 100 filed to date. nomic growth,” said Long, “however, the been reflected in the financial markets.” 18 Speed Media On Track & Eyeing the Open Road By Amy Cygan the CRA Tech Trailer, and the CRA Back dously,” said Dietrich. “I think people are advertising provides a cost-efficient Drop Board used for driver introductions starting to find us, but I also think that branding-awareness business-solution How do you connect designing race and victory lane photos. For this season, vehicle wraps are starting to hit the mar- alternative—one that has been around cars on paper as a child, with designing Speed media will also award a complete ket a bit more.” for a century. digitalized graphics for all sorts of vehi- graphics package for the 2011 CRA Super And why wouldn’t they? The Traffic “Race cars have used advertising on cles as an adult? Kurt Dietrich linked the Series and JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour Audit Bureau reports that up to 16 million their vehicles since the early 1900s,” said two with his early-day NASCAR involve- Champion’s racecar. impressions a year can stem from transit Dietrich, “so a lot of what you take off ment, a Bachelor’s in Visual The CRA fit appears a natural one, advertising, and according to the Outdoor NASCAR—if properly executed—can be Communications from Kendall College of given that Dietrich worked for a NASCAR Advertising Association of America: “Out taken back to a commercial vehicle wrap.” Art and Design, and his 2001 founding of team right out of high school. His of home advertising revenue rose 4.2 per- While Speed Media continues to pur- Speed Media—a motor vehicle marketing responsibilities included handling the cent in the first quarter of 2011 compared sue a larger pie-share of the commercial and design firm based in Cedar Springs. graphics for a 17-car fleet. to the same period in 2010, accounting for arena, maintaining its reputation for Speed Media’s professional services “Each car had its letter that needed nearly $1.4 billion. The increase in rev- delivering quality design, production, and range from installing vehicle wraps, fleet to be taken care of; materials had to be enue has signaled steady, positive year- installation work remains a core priority. lettering and boat wraps to creating logo ordered—I was always involved,” said over-year revenue growth since the second “We didn’t just go out and buy all identity packages, herocards, custom Dietrich. “Deciding that I liked the busi- quarter of 2010.” Another industry mar- this equipment and go into business one wallpapers, and race car graphics. ness and marketing side of it better was keting report from IBISWorld suggests that day. We understand the marketing and Some portfolio contributions what drove me to Kendall. The next tran- “despite strong competition from other advertising side of it as well,” said evolved out of the firm’s on-going spon- sition was in applying the elements of advertising methods, the ability to reach a Dietrich. “But the next part is getting peo- sorship with the Championship Racing the racing side to the commercial side.” large audience will drive demand for . . . ple to trust and believe in what we do.” Association (CRA). Having been involved Speed Media has since profited from outdoor displays over the next five years.” since the 2002 season, Speed Media that alluring commercial industry, which As one of five sub-categories com- designed the CRA Official Pace Vehicle, “in the last year, has picked up tremen- prising outdoor advertising, transit Construction Briefs

Kalamazoo – Judith Poll-Droste joins Grand Rapids - Owen-Ames-Kimball Grand Rapids - Vos Glass, Inc. welcomes Grand Rapids - C. D. Barnes Associates, CSM Group as an administrative assistant Co. has hired Tracy Ezell for their Grand Army Veteran Mitchell VanderArk to Inc. has completed the construction of at the Grand Rapids office. CSM also pro- Rapids office. As staff architect, he will its Contract Glazing Team. VanderArk the Metro Dental Office in Wyoming. moted Jim Feltch to project director. Feltch design and detail construction projects brings 10 years of construction experi- The office will house the practices of Dr. joined CSM in 2005 and most recently from conception to completion. ence and holds a construction manage- Jason Dew, DDS, and Dr. Curtis Hahn, served as senior project manager. ment degree from Ferris State DDS, in addition to servicing several Bloomfield Hills - Hubbell, Roth & University. other outside practices. Lansing – The American Council of Clark, Inc. (HRC) has promoted Nancy Engineering Companies of Michigan Faught to vice president/partner and Lansing – C2AE has hired Melanie Grand Rapids - Kathie Rademacher has announced its following 2011-2012 member of its Board of Directors. Ms. Joyner as human resources director, and joins Colliers International | West Officers: President, Kirk Branson; Faught joined HRC in 1987, and has Scott Floyd as electrical engineer with Michigan as marketing manager. President-Elect, Keith Swaffar; served as manager and technical director over 13 years of design experience. Rademacher will lead day-to-day mar- Treasurer, Amy Trahey; National of HRC’s Civil/Road Design department keting activities through advertising and Director, James Escamilla; and Past- for 10 years. Kalamazoo – Skanska USA's building public relations. President, Andrew McCune. 2011-2012 business unit has hired Robert Skinner ACEC/M Board of Directors include: Grand Ledge – Demolition work has as vice president for its Michigan opera- Kalamazoo - David Weingart has joined Wally Alix, Jim Cook, Michael Cooper, begun on the remodeling of Sundance tions. With 25 years of experience, CSM Group as a Construction Manager Thomas Deneau, John Hiltz, Sean Chevrolet in Grand Ledge to be complet- Skinner will help create business oppor- working on the Food & Beverage delivery Kelley, Mark Kramer, Steve Nichols, ed in September 2011. Wolverine tunities across the Midwest, and will team. He will be responsible for directing Stephen Pangori, and Robert Rayl. Building Group has teamed with the oversee the regional Skanska health care and verifying contract compliance by the architectural firm Design Plus on the construction projects. trade contractors. Bloomfield Hills - Hubbell, Roth & Clark, remodel and expansion project, which Inc. (HRC) welcomes Trevor will expand the service lanes by 4,300 Kalamazoo - Alex Sadovskiy has joined Denver, Co – In this year’s study, The J.D. Wagenmaker as Mid-Michigan process square feet, and provide renovations for CSM Group as project engineer working Power and Associates 2011 Home manager. Wagenmaker will bring his tech- a new car showroom, service write-up on the Marshall Public Schools project Buyer/Seller StudySM, home buyers and nical expertise to HRC’s Delhi and Howell area, car-delivery area, and customer delivery team. sellers rated RE/MAX as the highest in office locations. waiting lounge. providing overall consumer satisfaction. Grand Rapids - Amy Jo Feliciano, Grand Rapids – Tracy Sianta has joined Rochester - RE/MAX Defined has Central Station manager of Engineered Traverse City - The Builders License Progressive AE as vice president of mar- announced the Real Estate equivalent: Protection Systems, Inc., has been Training Institute, a Michigan licensed keting and business development. Jeanne MacKellar. Ranked in the top 1% named 2010 Central Station Manager of and EPA Accredited Proprietary School Sianta brings over 25 years of experience of agents nationwide and recognized as a the Year by the Central Station Alarm now offers online, and in cities through- in market planning, brand development, top producer for the past nine years, Association. Feliciano was chosen from out Michigan, both the 60-hours of and entrepreneurial marketing methods. MacKellar joins the team with the 16-year- a field that included 48 of the nation’s state-approved prelicensure education career highlight of $175 million in sales. largest security companies. and the continuing competency courses. 19 A New Alternative for Commercial Fleets By Scott Perry ment, a lack of an established fueling models, and predictable delivery routes. Fourth, fleet managers should infrastructure, and the general risks Two types of natural gas vehicles are become familiar with government incen- High oil prices, fuel supply volatility, associated with implementing a new available to fleets: Compressed natural gas tives and laws related to natural gas. The and an overall heightened interest in sus- vehicle technology are all challenges that (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). U.S. Department of Energy has detailed tainable business practices are driving business owners face when looking to CNG is stored as a high-pressure gas in information on its Alternative Fuels & market demand for clean transportation convert their fleets to natural gas. As a onboard storage cylinders. CNG, because Advanced Vehicles Data Center website. solutions. The New Alternative result, some companies are turning to of its lower energy density, is not practical Visit www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/laws/ Transportation to Give Americans outsourced providers, such as Ryder, for long-distance applications; however, it and click on the “Incentives & Laws” tab Solutions (NAT GAS) Act of 2011, intro- where they can tap into existing invest- is used successfully in shorter-range, to search for information by state. duced to support incentives for the use of ments in technology, people, safety, fuel- heavy-duty operations, such as pick-up Companies that want to try natural natural gas vehicles, is helping natural gas ing, and maintenance infrastructure. and delivery refuse trucks, concrete mix- gas, but don’t want to take on the risk, to emerge as a front runner in the clean For example: Ryder has partnered ers, straight trucks, and municipal buses. should consider a lease or rental option transportation arena. In fact, the with the U.S. Department of Energy, LNG is stored in onboard, stainless steel, that enables them to try the new technolo- International Association of Natural Gas California Energy Commission, and the insulated containers. LNG requires less gy without making a significant long-term Vehicles estimates that there will be more San Bernardino Associated Governments space to transport when compared to CNG, commitment or investment. There are also than 50 million natural gas vehicles to deploy natural gas vehicles into its so it is often used to support longer-range a number of good resources for Michigan worldwide within the next ten years, or commercial truck rental and leasing oper- delivery applications. businesses that are interested in learning about nine percent of the world trans- ation in Southern California. The project Second, fleet operators need to be more about natural gas vehicles: portation fleets. While the NAT GAS Act includes 202, heavy-duty natural gas aware of the available fueling infrastruc- Clean Energy Coalition: www.cec- has not yet passed, heightened awareness vehicles, the construction of two, new, ture. Detroit Edison publishes a map of mi.org of natural gas as a commercial transport natural gas refueling stations, and three natural gas fueling stations in Michigan, The West Michigan Strategic fuel has many companies reassessing vehicle maintenance facilities in the on its website at Alliance: www.wm-alliance.org their long-term fleet strategies. region. Ryder is planning to leverage its www.dteenergy.com/pdfs/fuelingStations.pdf. Detroit Edison: www.dteenergy.com It’s no surprise that commercial expertise from this project to expand into Third, businesses should consider Ryder: www.ryder.com/fleet_alter- fleets are considering natural gas other markets, including Michigan, as the maintenance requirements of natural native-fuels.shtml because of its low emissions, low cost, demand for natural gas vehicles contin- gas vehicles. Traditional shops must go Tremendous benefits can come from and high performance. Increasing con- ues to grow. through a modification process to meet incorporating natural gas vehicles into a cerns over energy security, changing Working with an established fleet stringent industry and government safety commercial fleet; however, fleet owners emissions regulations, and fuel costs partner can make alternative fuel vehi- standards for natural gas vehicle mainte- should do their research or consider make natural gas an attractive alterna- cles more accessible and affordable for nance; this includes upgrades to electrical engaging an experienced fleet partner, tive to diesel fuel. Natural gas, based on businesses. When deciding how to incor- and ventilation systems, and the installa- before jumping in with both feet. current diesel fuel prices, costs as much porate natural gas vehicles into a fleet, tion of methane detection systems. as 42 percent less per equivalent gallon there are a number of factors to consider: Furthermore, professional technicians Scott Perry is the Group Director of of diesel, and that gap is expected to Vehicle type, fueling infrastructure, vehi- must receive extensive, specialized train- Vehicle Supply Management for Ryder widen as diesel fuel prices continue to cle maintenance requirements, and natu- ing on the maintenance and repair of System, Inc., a FORTUNE 500 trans- climb. Natural gas also contains less car- ral gas laws and incentives. heavy-duty natural gas vehicles, as well portation and supply chain management bon than any other fossil fuel and thus, First, fleet owners must determine as safety protocols that must be followed solutions company. In this position, Mr. produces lower carbon dioxide or green- what type of vehicle is most appropriate when natural gas vehicles are in the Perry is responsible for managing vehicle house gas emissions. for their operations. The best applications shops. Current maintenance providers will and parts procurement, inventory plan- However, a higher initial invest- are those with local or regional delivery know whether they have the necessary ning and management, new vehicle tech- kind of expertise and infrastructure to nologies, as well as overseeing Ryder’s Carbon Composite support a natural gas fleet. alternative fuel program. Manufacturer Expands Grand Rapids – The Right Place, in hoods, roofs, and fenders—for low vol- collaboration with the Michigan ume luxury vehicles. The new high-vol- Economic Development Corporation ume production facility, located at 3195 (MEDC) and local partners, has N. Wilson Drive, Grand Rapids, announced a new manufacturing expan- Michigan, will host Plasan’s new manu- sion in the City of Walker. The MEDC facturing process, which will enable the approved the amendment to an existing company to pursue high-volume, auto- High Technology MEGA tax credit for motive component opportunities. Vermont-based Plasan Carbon The expansion project began in Composites, clearing the way for a new December 2010 with an initial meeting manufacturing facility that is expected to with The Right Place. Bosnjak led the generate over $18 million in capital business case for West Michigan until a investment and create 202 jobs over the facility was chosen, then, led the coordina- next three years. tion with the MEDC, the City of Walker, Plasan Carbon Composites is an and Plasan to determine possible econom- automotive tier-one manufacturer of car- ic incentives for the expansion, to ensure bon composite components—such as the project stayed in West Michigan. 20 Report Shows Economic Benefits of Strong MPG Boston, MA – As President Obama 1. The six percent scenario (roughly kets, also have some of the largest auto biggest gainers would be Michigan and announces the next round of a coordi- 60 MPG) would generate an estimated industry sectors. The top 12 states in Indiana, followed by Kentucky, South nated national program to improve fuel $152 billion in fuel savings for con- terms of percentage job increases Carolina, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Iowa, efficiency for model year 2017-2025 cars sumers in 2030 compared to business as include: Indiana, Michigan, Alabama, Ohio, Alabama and Oregon. Compared to and light-duty trucks, Ceres, a national usual; of that, $59 billion would likely be Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, North the three percent scenario, the six per- coalition of investors and public-interest spent in the auto industry. The remain- Carolina, New Hampshire, Vermont, cent scenario would bring 382,000 more organizations, has released “More Jobs ing $93 billion would be spent across the Oregon, New York and Missouri. jobs, a $15.7 billion increase in gross Per Gallon,” an economic analysis by the rest of the economy. Effects on state GDPs would be economic output (sales), $10.3 billion independent firm Management 2. Nearly 700,000 full-time jobs overwhelmingly positive. States seeing more in personal income, and $9.5 billon Information Services, Inc. that quantifies would be created under the six percent the biggest percentage GDP gains under more in tax revenue for cash strapped what stronger fuel economy/GHG stan- scenario; 350,000 jobs created under the the strongest fuel efficiency standard federal, state and local governments. dards would mean for the U.S. economy. three percent (roughly 47 MPG) sce- have large auto industry sectors. The Ceres’ new report evaluated different nario. 63,000 new, full-time domestic regulatory scenarios under consideration auto industry jobs would be created in for CAFE mileage and GHG emissions 2030 under the six percent scenario, Michigan: Home to Electric improvements – specifically, improve- more than double the 31,000 jobs under ments of three, four, five and six percent the three percent scenario. per year for model years 2017-25. States seeing the biggest gains, in Vehicle Production? Among the report’s key findings: terms of relative impact on their job mar- By Amy Cygan tioned itself as a frontrunner to meet the demands involved with electric vehicle According to the Michigan League of and lithium-ion battery production. Conservation Voters, panel experts from a "Look at the Chevy Volt,” Galves Industrial Briefs recent discussion on electric vehicle pro- said. “The batteries are produced in duction, held in July at the Detroit Michigan, and the Volt is produced in Allegan – Perrigo has hired Gregg Powell Zeeland - Gentex Corporation has Economic Club, concluded Michigan to be Michigan. The more capacity for these as associate sourcing manager, packag- announced that its SmartBeam® high- a key player in the electric vehicle push. batteries, the more market share ing, for the Global Procurement team. beam assist system is now available in the Dan Galves, panel member, and vice Michigan will take for these vehicles.” Powell will negotiate and manage supply European markets on the new 2011 Audi president and auto industry analyst for David Vieau, president and CEO of agreements with vendors. A7. SmartBeam uses a miniature camera- Deutsche Bank, suggested, “The U.S. Massachusetts-based battery manufac- on-a-chip to automatically operate a vehi- has about 30 percent of the capacity to turer A123 Systems, has already relocat- Grand Rapids - Amy Engelsman, Proos cle's high beams according to surrounding build electric car batteries, and Michigan ed his co.’s production operations to Manufacturing president and CEO, traffic conditions. The system maximizes represents about two-thirds of that, so Michigan—employing 2,000 people in forward lighting while eliminating the received the 2011 Enterprising Women of 20 percent of the world’s capacity of the process—with the assumption that manual turning on and off of high beams. the Year Award from Enterprising lithium-ion batteries, we think, will be in Michigan manufacturing will advance to Women, a magazine that chronicles the Michigan.” an entirely different level as the lithium- Allegan – Perrigo has hired Jeff Pirrone power of entrepreneurial women. By 2014, the market for electric ion battery market expands and electric as procurement operations buyer for the vehicles is expected to be a $14-billion vehicle innovation develops. packaging team. With 15 years of expe- Rockford - For the second quarter ended industry. Because of Michigan’s automo- If Michigan can capitalize on its bat- rience in packaging, purchasing and June 18, 2011, Wolverine Worldwide tive staple, and the tendency for manu- tery production capabilities, the demand logistics, Pirrone will oversee the strate- reported double-digit growth in both rev- facturers to build their automotive plants for electric vehicles will likely increase, gic, day-to-day packaging component enue and earnings per share. Second near battery assembly plants (minimiz- spurring job creation and ballooning the operations. quarter highlights: Revenue of $310.1 ing shipping costs), the state has posi- health of Michigan’s automotive industry. million, growth of 20.1% vs. the prior year; diluted earnings per share of $0.48, Rockford - Wolverine Worldwide has growth of 23.1% vs. adjusted fully dilut- appointed Nicholas Long to the compa- ed earnings per share for the prior year; ny's Board of Directors. Long, 52, is the For All Your Finishing Needs! double-digit revenue growth for all brand chief executive officer of MillerCoors. groups, consumer direct business, and major geographic regions; operating Waterloo, Canada - Descartes Systems • Vibratory Finishing • Parts Cleaning expenses of 28.6% as a percentage of rev- Group has announced that Southwest • Abrasive Blasting • Soda/Dry Ice Blasting enue versus an adjusted 29.7% in the Airlines has deployed Descartes’ cloud- prior year; record operating margin of based Air Messaging Service to its cargo • Peening 10.8%; company reaffirmation of full year customers. Descartes shipment status revenue and earnings guidance. messaging allows Southwest Airlines West Michigan’s Leading Provider of cargo to deliver real-time alerts to its Zeeland - Gentex Corporation has been freight forwarders and direct-shipper Surface Enhancement Solutions recognized by Chrysler Group LLC as customers. one of only 11 suppliers to win an award for outstanding performance. The Detroit Walker - Tubelite Inc. has opened two honorary event was the first of its kind offices in South Carolina and Texas, and held, since Chrysler Group and Fiat added six personnel. Tubelite already 800- 968-1811 Byron Center, MI formed a strategic global alliance in 2009. serves in Virginia, Texas, Georgia, and the Carolinas. www.grandnorthern.com 21 Fleet Management Trends in Europe – Green, Lean, and Growing By Andreas Fein class vehicle for their personal usage, or realizing the cost-effective trends of EURO NORM 5 or EURO NORM 6 emis- to add optional accessories to a preferred lower fuel consumption and green tech- sion standards help to lower the operat- Vehicle fleets mean big business for vehicle. Other cost management alterna- nologies. Volkswagen offers environ- ing costs for road transporters. Europe, despite the fleet business having tives include longer leasing contracts and mentally-sensitive fleet managers the Formerly, used trucks had been sold endured some big challenges. In recent limitations on mileage per year. competitive "Fleet Competence eCO2" to Eastern Europe for a good price. years, new-car sales to businesses The bigger the fleet, the more likely program, which is built upon the low However, demand for used trucks shrank to 32 percent of the market, while fleet owners are to lease vehicles or to emission BlueMotion editions of their declined as truckers from Poland and the Cash for Clunkers program boosted outsource the management of their car fleet’s model range. The three-step pro- Romania, who regularly transport loads sales to private buyers in Germany to 68 parks, thus taking advantage of the gram consists of optimized vehicle hard- to and from Western Europe, began run- percent. But with the economic recovery know-how, staff, and IT-infrastructure of ware, attractive leasing rates for low ning the new Mercedes, MAN, Volvo and in 2010, the share of B2B climbed back specialized service providers, whose full- emission packages, and optimized "soft- Scania trucks—which met the new emis- up to 57 percent, putting fleet business service packages include not only the ware" that provides training on fuel-effi- sion standards—in order to keep toll back on track. provision of vehicles, accounting and cient driving, and which sponsors select- rates low. In summary, the so-caused run Trend to Lease budget-control administrative work, car ed climate-protection projects. on new trucks caused falling prices for There are two, major “standard seg- insurance, and repair and damage man- Younger Trucks used commercial vehicles and stimulated ments” of the fleet vehicle market in agement, but also tank card and tire In the truck fleet market, one sees a the leasing of new trucks (with a fixed Europe: Car fleets—consisting of compa- management. (Winter tires are mostly number of structural changes occurring. used vehicle price at the end of the term). ny cars for individuals, as well as pool mandatory!) And mergers of fleet mgmt. In previous years, better planning soft- So across the Atlantic, truck fleets cars—and commercial vehicle fleets, firms—like the one between ware helped logistic providers to increase are getting smaller and younger, execu- which range from trucking companies, FleetCompany and Belgic FleetLogistics, their routing efficiency; consequently, tive cars are being put on a diet, and parcel services, and manufacturers, on which jointly manages 100,000 vehi- the number of truck fleet vehicles shrank everything is becoming a little more up to distributors. cles—are showing the trend to offer such 10 to 30 percent in the post-crisis era. green—yet overall, the fleet business As in the U.S., company cars are services Europe-wide. And, while in the past, corporate fleet continues to grow bigger and bigger! typically used by executives, field sales- Greener, More Compact Luxury Cars managers have operated their trucks persons, and service mechanics, with The Volkswagen, traditionally, is a over six to eight years, four to five years Based in Stuttgart, Germany, other employees using vehicles (if neces- brand leader in fleet car sales—together (350K to 400K miles, on average) is now although a frequent traveller to West sary) from the corporate car pool. For the with Ford, with its special emphasis on the norm—with the tendency being three Michigan, Andreas Fein specializes in cars used by the privileged, the so- fleet sales in Europe. In many instances, years. helping U.S. firms in the automotive and named “corporate vehicle guidelines” the number of cars per fleet has The reason for this? The road tolls machine building industry enter the usually restrict the selection of certain increased, but the economic crisis in for trucks above 12 tons (In Europe, an European market. For more than 202 vehicle categories—excluding or favoring 2009 steered the former trend of bigger- overall weight of 12 tons or more consti- years, his consulting firm has worked certain brands, binding size, engine size sedans and uncountable cylinders tutes the class of heavy trucks.) are with multiple West Michigan companies. power, and vehicle price, with regard to (especially for the top level) in the oppo- bound to the emission class of a truck; E: [email protected]. the hierarchy level of a company car ben- site direction. Nowadays, many corpora- thus, only the new models meeting eficial. Yet, in recent times, the “reference tions see a Mercedes E-Class as being cost system” used by leasing companies roomy enough to replace an S-Class, and has provided more flexibility to salesmen with a well-equipped Audi A6, there’s First Ever Tomographic and managers, allowing them to add less of a need for an A8. payments onto the purchase price or Besides image fad-drivers and the Motion Detection System lease rate, in order to secure a higher downsizing of model size, vehicles are Salt Lake City - Xandem’s new syn- wave disruptions as they pass through ergistic sensing technology, created by the defined area—a synergistic architec- Wilson and Patwari at the University of ture that increases robustness. Utah, has led to the first available-for- In security systems, Xandem sen- purchase tomographic motion detection sors can penetrate solid walls and objects system. The product offers a new way to so that an entire area can be covered detect movement and is easily integrated without gaps in the sensing. Also, in into standard panel equipment. building automation and energy efficien- “Xandem’s tomographic motion cy applications, Xandem’s system is detection techology is a new way to more aesthetically pleasing than tradi- detect movement within a defined area. tional motion sensors. The system can be completely hidden by Wilson further recognized a capabil- embedding the devices in walls or behind ity for non-traditional usages: “Our sys- objects, and is much more robust to false tems, because they can quantify motion, alarms than traditional microwave or can detect the difference between a sin- infrared sensors,” claimed Joey Wilson, gle intruder and a crowd of people. When Xandem founder. parents leave their kids at home, they Unlike traditional microwave sen- can be notified if a party is occurring— sors, Xandem sensors do not depend on one example of how Xandem is enabling radio wave reflections. The tomographic powerful new applications.” sensing comes from communicating nodes in the mesh network that sense 22 Big City Experience at Local CityFlats By Mindy Koschmann were acquired from local sources, and a tary high-speed wireless internet, iPod® CityFlats Grand Rapids is the ideal majority of all seating and décor items docking stations, HDTV and DIRECTV®, hotel for travelers seeking a big city Grand Rapids, Michigan’s most were manufactured in Holland, custom tile walk-in showers, and plat- experience without big city headaches. anticipated eco-friendly hotel is now Michigan—a mere 30 miles away from form beds with Michigan-made CityDrem Located in downtown Grand Rapids’ open. Located in the heart of Grand the Grand Rapids hotel site. mattresses. bustling epicenter, CityFlats Grand Rapids at 83 Monroe Center, CityFlats CityFlats Grand Rapids has 28 con- CityFlats’ street-level lounge, Rapids is in walking distance from many inhabits what was once the legendary ceptually unique guest rooms, each CitySïn, offers a full bar with local brews, of the city’s 92 downtown restaurants, Fox Jewelers Building. The five-story boasting a variety of environmentally wine, and creative cocktails, as well as bars, clubs, and coffee shops. A number hotel was designed to achieve LEED* friendly elements. These features include an intriguing array of small plates. of downtown meeting facilities, event Gold Certification, allowing guests to sat- low-flow faucets and toilets using 30 CitySen also hosts a daily Happy Hour locations, museums, and parks are also isfy their eco-conscience without offend- percent less water than standard fix- and a weekly half-price offer on select only a quick stroll from the hotel. ing their sense of style. The hotel was tures, hypo-allergenic linens from sus- bottles of wine. For coffee lovers, the designed and manufactured with artfully tainable bamboo, high-efficiency heating hotel's CityBru fuel stop serves fair trade Mindy Koschmann is a freelance selected green materials, technologies, and cooling units, cork flooring, and coffee 24 hours a day. Hassle-free park- writer and can be contacted at and practices, to reduce negative impacts Low-VOC paints. Guest rooms also fea- ing is available in the Monroe Center 260.417.7364. on the environment. Over 30 percent of ture a number of luxury and high-tech Parking Garage, which features a cov- the materials used to construct the hotel accommodations, including complimen- ered walkway to CityFlats Hotel. Get Ready for the Largest Car Event in Western Michigan Grand Rapids – On Friday and enjoy the bonanza of classic cars while by C-tech Performance, the Judged Car Media Partners, Citadel Saturday, August 26 and 27, 2011, they “camp out” on lawn chairs along Show sponsored by Meijer, and the Broadcasting, WZZM 13, and WGVU will Foremost Insurance and the Wyoming- 28th Street. Green Zone featuring a Chevy Volt, a promote the event and communicate the Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce In addition to the cars, this year’s 1910 Baker Electric and an electric drag latest updates. will present the 7th Annual Foremost event will include a NASCAR simulator, racing car. Any individual that has a As Western Michigan’s car-attrac- Insurance 28th Street Metro Cruise. Friday and Saturday DJ entertainment restored, modified, or unusual show car tion classic, the Foremost Insurance 28th Encompassing 15 miles of historic 28th with valuable giveaways (sponsored by is welcomed to submit an online entry Street Metro Cruise generates a wel- Street, the Metro Cruise is Western Southland Auto Wash), the Metro for the Judged Car Show. comed injection of tourist dollars into the Michigan’s largest car event—annually Million High End Car Display (sponsored Especially new to the event will be community, and represents a huge mar- attracting 300,000 visitors and 15,000 by Great Clips), and the Automotive the unique Car-Toon Truck, sponsored by keting/promotional opportunity for local classic cars, including hot rods, muscle Swap Meet and Car Corral (for selling Marge’s Donut Den and Homewood and regional businesses. cars, low riders, and antiques. vehicles). Suites. The vehicle visually documents Volunteers for the event are still The annual Foremost Insurance New this year will be the Sock Hop the history of comics from 1896 to the needed. Registration is available online 28th Street Metro Cruise celebrates clas- sponsored by Humana, the Pin-Up Girl present. Over 2,800 hours of brush and at www.28thstreetmetrocruise.com. sic roadsters and invites car lovers of all Contest hosted by Relix Car & Motorcycle airbrush art were invested on the 1928 ages, from all over the United States, to Club, the Motor Build Stage sponsored Ford Model AR Roadster Pickup. Hotel/Restaurant Briefs

New Buffalo - The Pokagon Band of Jonkman as its director of finance and Mutch, Janet Ramsey, Luisa Rapids, MI is now open. The project was Potawatomi Indians announced the fol- administration. Jonkman previously Schumacher, and Matt Wey. Officers of completed by two Holland-based compa- lowing: An early buy-out of its agree- served 15 years as vice president for the Board: Chairperson - Brian Cloyd; nies: GDK Construction (contractor) ment with Lakes Entertainment, Inc.; finance and human resources at the Vice Chairperson - John Schaff; and GMB Architecture and the opening of its newest casino, Four Grand Rapids Symphony. Experience Secretary - Ping Liang; Treasurer - Engineering (architect). Winds Hartford, in Hartford, Michigan, Grand Rapids has also been awarded Michael Gaudino. slated Aug. 2011; an expansion of the accreditation from the Destination Four Winds Casino Resort – current Marketing Accreditation Program. Holland - A second CityFlats Hotel at construction to be completed in summer 83 Monroe Center in downtown Grand 2012; and the closing on a $410 million Bellaire – Shanty Creek Resorts has refinancing, to be used for payment of selected Pete Bigford of Niles, MI as its Does Your Travel Agent Provide Your Company : outstanding bonds and loans used for new chief operating officer and general the development and operation of Four manager . A company Frequent Flier program that compliments personal frequent fliers plans. Winds Casino Resort. A 24 hour grace period after tickets have been issued to avoid the airline penalty of $150

Grand Rapids - Frederik Meijer A corporate car rental program that guarantees a car even when locations are sold out Grand Rapids – Experience Grand Gardens & Sculpture Park welcomes Rapids, the Greater Grand Rapids Area eight members to its Board of Directors: An evening and weekend emergency center staffed 24 hours. Convention and Visitors Bureau, Keith Brophy, Linda Chamberlain, A corporate rate hotel program with over 120,000 properties. announced the appointment of Daniel Cate Jansma, Mark Mossing, Craig If not call Mike Malaney at Travel Leaders 616-942-2860. Corporate Information 23

Holland - Anne B. Saliers has been Grand Rapids - Goodwill Industries of use a triple-grain recipe: a unique blend appointed to the Holland Board of Greater Grand Rapids is relocating its of barley, red Michigan wheat, and corn. Next Month Topics Public Works (HBPW) as conservation Goodwill Outlet Center from 3075 30th Grand Rapids – The Rotary Club of programs manager; Julie Thompson has Street SW, to 3035 Prairie Street. Grand Rapids has appointed Dawn been promoted to manager of customer Smith as executive director. Smith will Employment service. Saliers will oversee, plan and Grand Rapids – Guiding Light Mission lead Club operations, while encouraging implement utility-sponsored conserva- announced the addition of Bradford the organization’s mission of goodwill Health Insurance tion and efficiency programs, and serve Mathis, director of Community Benefit and peace through the fellowship of Safety & Security as HBPW's liaison to the Holland Ministry at Saint Mary’s Health Care in business, professional, and community Community Sustainability Committee. Grand Rapids; Jessica Manfrin, devel- leaders. Construction Eqpt opment associate; and Clifford Nutrition Lansing - Michigan Department of Washington, coordination manager for Muskegon - Goodwill Industries of Agriculture & Rural Development has the MPRI pilot site that covers Kent & West Michigan hired Rick Roberts as Cosmetic Procedures announced the selection of Dr. James Allegan Counties. industrial services manager. With over Restaurants Averill - animal industry division; 30 years of senior leadership roles in Intl Business Directors Kevin Besey - food and dairy Columbus, OH - Big Lots celebrated its manufacturing environments, Roberts’ division; Gina Alessandri - pesticide grand opening on July 29 at the knowledge includes product engineer- and plant pest management division; Kentwood Towne Centre (4254 28th ing, work floor organization, time stud- To be involved call and Bonnie Moon - laboratory division. Street SE, Kentwood), and donated ies, project management, and quality ini- 616-583-1577 $2,500 to Crestwood Middle School. tiatives such as ISO 9001, 5S, and lean Grand Rapids - Andrew Page transi- manufacturing. tioned into the role of executive director Grand Rapids - Chad Cornell (Crystal of the David D. Hunting Facility for the Clean Automotive Detailing) was YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. Andy recently named “2011 Most Valuable BL2END has led the Boys and Girls Club of Carwasher” by Professional Carwashing Holland for eight years. & Detailing magazine. Marks Fifth Anniversary Grand Rapids - Business Leaders partner for the event, Warner, Norcross Byron Center - lia sophia has awarded Grand Rapids - Lambert, Edwards & Linked to Encourage New Directions & Judd, LLP will introduce Ms. Ingrid top honors for its Excellent Beginnings Associates has added Chea Tyrrell as (BL2END) will celebrate its fifth anniver- Jacobs—the diversity and inclusion man- Program Achievers; Paula Dixon was an associate in the firm’s health care sary next month. The innovative net- ager at Whirlpool Corporation--who will recognized for her professionalism and practice. Tyrrell leaves the Michigan working group was originally created to deliver the keynote address. As the sales accomplishments. Townships Association, where she meet the needs of 21-to-35-year-old pro- Legacy partner, Varnum, LLP represen- worked as communications coordinator, fessionals of color in the Greater Grand tatives will present awards based on the Grandville - Sheryl Blair, Grandville, advertising manager, and expo director. Rapids area, but has grown to attract event’s theme, while the Passion part- and Melissa Landon, Middleville, have professionals of all ages, races and back- ner, Priority Health, will host the pre- become independent consultants with Dorr - Independent consultant with grounds. event VIP reception. Tastefully Simple Inc. The business Tastefully Simple, Inc., Lisa Fennema, Mercedes Barragan, fifth anniver- In an effort to promote an atmos- owners offer food samples, along with has become team manager. Fennema sary committee member and board mem- phere for networking, Table easy ideas for everyday meals, recipes, earned the promotion by adding new ber, said: “We all have grown up with the Partnerships, designed to acquaint table and serving suggestions. consultants to the team and through her powerful stories of generations past. partner guests with BL2END partici- sales achievements. BL2END leaders continue the work of pants, will be available at three levels: Grand Rapids - Marcia Warner, director generations that have followed the Civil Access, Success, and Excellence. Each of the Grand Rapids Public Library, was Ferndale – TheFiftyBest.com has Rights Era, taking up our responsibility Table Partnership includes event tickets inaugurated on June 28, as the 2011- awarded Michigan-made Valentine to continue the progress they began.” and at least one ticket to the VIP recep- 2012 president of the Public Library Vodka with a Double-Gold during its Three event partners will host the tion. Association—a division of the oldest and 2011 “Best Domestic Vodka” tasting, as celebration under the theme of Passion. Visit www.grblend.org/five for largest library association in the world: one of the first distilleries in the world to Leadership. Legacy. As the Leadership gala details. American Library Association. Art Prize Secures Grant and Anticipates Spectator Grand Rapids - To fund its 2011 out- around the arts. Inspired by such compe- before ArtPrize began, as reported by international contest for public art that is door event, ArtPrize will receive a titions as the X-Prize and large-scale business owners in a recent Grand Valley solely decided by public vote, and offers $100,000 Our Town grant from the events like the Sundance Film Festival, State University study. the world’s largest prize for art. ArtPrize National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), ArtPrize is among the most unique com- During its 2009 inaugural season, annually distributes nearly $500,000 in one of only 51 grants awarded nationwide. petitions in the art world. It has no for- more than 200,000 people attended prize money. Our Town is the NEA’s latest invest- mal jury, curator or judge, asking the ArtPrize and more than 334,000 votes 1,582 artists from 36 countries and ment in creative place making—partner- public to vote and decide winners using were cast. Numbers swelled in 2010 to 43 states will show their work in 164 ing public and private sectors together to mobile devices and the web. more than 400,000 people and 465,000 venues within three-square miles of strategically shape the social, physical And while the primary goal of votes cast. More than 500,000 people downtown Grand Rapids. Canada, with and economic character of a locale ArtPrize has not been economic develop- are predicted to attend and vote during 23 artists, has the greatest number of around cultural activities and the arts. ment, the impact of the event has result- the 19-day event, beginning Sept. 21- participants from outside the U.S. ArtPrize aims to connect artists and ed in more than $7 million in consumer Oct. 9, 2011. The period when artists can official- communities, and to provide them with a spending at downtown businesses and Created as part-arts festival, part- ly secure a venue and participate in platform for broadening the dialog lodging, compared to the same period social experiment, ArtPrize is the only ArtPrize 2011 has been closed.