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Eagle CNC owner Bill Seyfeth (left) describes to MCC President Dale Nesbary (right) and Eagle CNC employee and MCC student Eric Fazakerley the need for skilled workers to operate his firms complex machinery. Seyferth reimburses his employees MCC tuition costs if they receive above average grades.
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going from just creating 3-D models to testing their fit, form and function on the computers. The model becomes a real-life computer prototype. MCC prides itself on being ready for industrys next wave while continuing to address todays employment needs. The college has been partnering with local business since offering its first tech classes 52 years ago. Adaptability in education, as in business, remains the key. Unfortunately, if you listen to the media, manufacturing is dead in the United States, explains Bill Seyferth, the 27-year owner of North Muskegons Eagle CNC, which makes castings for American and global firms. Its not dead. Its just changed. Its become more demanding from a technical standpoint. Its difficult now to walk out of high school, find a job, work hard and be able to move up. Youve got to have a skill set. Seyferth encourages continuing education among his employees. He reimburses their tuition costs for above average grades. Eric Fazakerley, an Eagle CNC employee, has witnessed tangible benefits to studying part-time at MCC the past five years. I started on the floor and worked my way into engineering, says the Muskegon resident. I know a little bit
about how it all works. Thats one of the nice things about having instructors who worked out in the field. Ive taken basic machining, welding, and technical math. Its definitely helped me accelerate up the chain faster. It shows them that I am pushing myself to excel. Martin compares MCCs generalist approach to getting a liberal arts education in technology. More than 700 students are enrolled in MCCs technology programs, where they pursue certificates and degrees in electronics, graphics, automotive, machining computer-aided drafting, quality assurance, grounds maintenance and production supervision. Recently, MCC added cutting-edge technology courses in applied alternative/renewable energy, biofuels and wind and solar energy. The European firm fortu Powercell is partnering with MCC to have the college screen its employees to ensure that they have taken the necessary MCC courses, or their equivalents, so that the alternative battery manufacturer can hit the ground running when it builds its plant and begins operations in North Muskegon. As more foreign companies return industrial operations to the U.S. where natural resources are more abundant and the quality of the finished product much
better, America must respond with greater technological training, says Martin. When charting its academic path, MCC listens to its advisory boards, one for each tech program on campus, filled with experienced individuals in the respective fields. I try to insure that our faculty and our students are connected with the business community directly, adds MCC President Dale Nesbary, who frequently meets face-to-face with area business leaders and serves on many related committees to encourage a rapport. He sits on the Talent 2025 Presidents Council, which offers a two-way flow of information regarding internships and workforce challenges across a 13-county region. The synergy between the MCC campus and industry portends exciting days ahead. With the comeback of the auto industry over the last year, not only metal forming industries have been busy, but Muskegons plastics companies have been growing and new players are coming on board, says Dan RinsemaSybenga, director of business and training at MCC. Mainstay ADAC Automotive, maker of door handles and other components for the auto industry, and Fleet Engineers, transportation parts producer entering the plastics field with a $2 million expansion, are working with MCC to improve the Colleges capabilities to meet their needs for employees in this expanding regional sector. Martin and his fellow instructors, who are nearly all MCC alumni, take a special pride in the Industrial Technology Department. They relate to their students because they once sat in their seats. They fully understand their ultimate goal. If your students are going to get jobs, its because you are teaching them the right things, concludes Martin.
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Finance/Insurance Briefs
Grand Rapids Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge attorneys have been selected to be listed in the 2012 edition of The Best Lawyers in America as "Lawyer of the Year." Those from Smith Haughey Grand Rapids are as follows: William W. Jack, Jr. - Legal Malpractice Law Defendants; John C. OLoughlin - Medical Malpractice Law Defendants; L. R. "Bud" Roegge - Bet-the-Company Litigation; Edward R. Stein (Ann Arbor office) Personal Injury Litigation Defendants. Lansing - Attorney Brittany Campbell has joined the Gallagher Law Firm with offices in Lansing, Detroit, Grand Rapids and Mt. Pleasant. Ms. Campbell will focus her practice on representing lenders and corporate clients in litigation and regulatory matters. Grand Rapids - Law Weathers announced that Brian Fleetham was recently selected as Grand Rapids Health Care Law Lawyer of 2012 by Best Lawyers. Grand Rapids - Mika Meyers Beckett & Jones partners named Lawyers of the Year by Best Lawyers: Douglas A. Donnell named by Best Lawyers as Grand Rapids' Environmental Litigation Lawyer of the Year; Michael C. Haines named by Best Lawyers as Grand Rapids' Oil & Gas Lawyer of the Year. Grand Rapids - The CFA West Michigan Society, a member society of the CFA Institute, announced the selection of Zeeland, Mich.-based Herman Miller, Inc. as the focus company for the 2012 CFA Institute Research Challenge. Sparta ChoiceOne Bank donated $560 to the Sparta Education Foundation. Sparta Area School employees were given the challenge for every Health Savings Account they opened at ChoiceOne Bank within a certain time frame, the Bank would donate $10 to the Sparta Education Foundation. Grand Rapids - Plante Moran announced that a Plante Moran app is now available for the Android, iPhone or iPad and can be downloaded from the app store. The Plante Moran app allows users to: Read the latest edition or archives of the Universal Advisor; Read and comment on Managing Partner Gordon Kraters blog; Peruse the latest Plante Moran events and webinars; View the Plante Moran Twitter feed. Ionia - Hank Risley has taken the role of senior vice president of retail lending at Independent Bank. Risley will lead the retail lending team statewide. Additionally, Brian Talbot, senior vice president of retail banking at Independent Bank, has an expanded role as the leader of retail administration throughout West Michigan. Grand Rapids - John W. Inhulsen, an attorney at Foster Swift Collins & Smith P.C., has been appointed to the State Bar of Michigan Practice Management Resource Center Advisory Committee. The primary responsibility of the Practice Management Resource Center Advisory Committee is to provide guidance in the development, maintenance, evaluation of resources, and programs. Sparta, MI ChoiceOne Bank announced the addition of Kent G. Gagnon as Business Development Officer. Gagnon is responsible for creating new opportunities and developing long-term relationships with the local business leaders in the communities the Bank serves. Grand Rapids - A. Christopher Engle, partner of Argus Financial Consultants, is newly certified as an Accredited Estate Planner (AEP) by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils. Chris specializes in working with his clients to help them create a financial plan and then implement strategies to pursue their financial goals.
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8 Finance/Insurance Briefs
Grand Rapids - Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge announced that Charissa C. Huang and Michael D. Shelton have joined the firms Grand Rapids office. Charissa Huang practices general litigation and transactional law. Michael Shelton practices in the areas of general litigation and transactional law. Grand Rapids - Kristen E. Ray, an associate with the law firm of Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge, has been selected as a 2011 Up & Coming Lawyer by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. Chicago, IL BDO USA, LLP announced that Matt Becker, Steve Ferrara, Kathy Kopczick and Chris Smith have each been elected to the firms board of directors. Becker, Kopczick and Smith were elected to full three-year terms, while Ferrara will serve a one-year term as he completes the term of a departing board member. Matthew K. Becker, 36, is a partner and Tax Business Line Leader for BDOs West Michigan offices. Kentwood - Regal Financial Group, LLC welcomes Ed Moore to their team. Moore made the transition to Regulus Advisors and has over 12 years of experience in the industry. Grand Rapids The Right Place announced the additions of: Therese Thill, Vice President, Business Development and Jill Day, Director, Fund Development. Thill will help lead the business development teams business retention, expansion and attraction efforts. May will be responsible for developing and deploying a fund raising plan. Sparta ChoiceOne Bank announced the addition of Gary Hall as Mortgage Sales Manager and the addition of John Harpst as Mortgage Operations Supervisor. Lansing - Anthony Jenkins, immediate past president of the State Bar of Michigan has been elected to the board of directors of the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He is the third former State Bar of Michigan president to serve on the schools current board. Grand Rapids Mark Allard and Joseph B. Levan have been named to Varnum's Policy Committee, the governing committee of the law firm. Mark Allard is a partner in the firm's Litigation Practice Group. Joe Levan is a partner in the Corporate Practice Group focusing on general corporate and securities matters. Grand Rapids Warner Norcross & Judd LLP welcomed five new attorneys to the law firm. The new attorneys have all been admitted to the State Bar of Michigan. They are: Kenneth A. Coleman, Matthew M. Crowe, Kaitlyn N. Day, Roquia K. Draper, Ryan Grondzik. Grand Rapids - Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge announced that the firm has been ranked among the top law firms in the United States in the publication, Best Law Firms, published by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers. Smith Haughey received First-Tier rankings in Grand Rapids 10 categories. The following Grand Rapids attorneys from Smith Haughey have also been included in the 2012 issues of Best Lawyers in America, also published by Best Lawyers: Charles F. Behler; Carol D. Carlson; Joseph A. Engel; William W. Jack, Jr.; Brian J. Kilbane; John M. Kruis; E. Thomas McCarthy, Jr.; Craig S. Neckers; John C. OLoughlin; John R. Oostema; Bud Roegge. Grand Rapids Warner Norcross & Judd LLP has been ranked one of the Best Law Firms by Best Lawyers and U.S. News & World Report. In its second year, the awards recognized Warner Norcross for excellence in 37 practice areas. Criteria for inclusion included firm practice areas, expertise, responsiveness, integrity, litigation and major legal matters, cost-effectiveness, pro-bono commitment, diversity and others. Grand Rapids The Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center (MI-SBTDC) announced that entrepreneur Jason Pliml has joined the Michigan SBTDC network as a part of the Technology Commercialization Team. Jason is an entrepreneur and business advisor with extensive software, financial and marketing expertise.
"Estate Planning"
Continued from page 7 But it appears that returning to the good old days of banking, when a lending officer and a business owner would meet to discuss the current state of the economy and the needs of their business, might be exactly what the economy needs for growth. Eric joined Huntington National Bank in 1994 and in 2002, Eric became the Business Banking Market Manager. Mills attended the University of Texas in Arlington, Texas as well as the Southwest Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University.
"Estate Planning"
Continued from page 5 Once you find an advisor, meet with them regularly to ensure proper adjustments are made, so that your goals are continually met. Is it costly? Much greater is the cost of not doing it. Not only should estate planning be a perpetual item on your to-do list, it should be at the top of your list. Current tax legislation provides some methods for transferring generous amounts of wealth with minimal tax liability. Some of these options are slated to disappear after 2012, so the time to act is now. Contact an estate planning advisor, make a list of your assets, and get started today! Larry E Roslund is Partner and Director of Taxes with Dolinka, VanNoord & Co. He can be reached at 616.459.2233.
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Education Briefs
Kalamazoo - A state survey with data that can enhance economic development and job creation in Michigan has been transferred to Western Michigan University. The move will make WMU Michigan's designated geoscience agency and put responsibility for mapping the state's geological resources-such as minerals, soils and groundwater--in the hands of a department that already is a storehouse of information concerning the state's groundwater and oil and gas resources. Grand Rapids Ferris State Universitys Board of Trustees approved an administration recommendation of a zero-percent increase in room and board for students for the 2012-13 academic year. University officials recommended no increase in room and board as students and families begin to make college decisions about the Fall 2012 Semester. Grand Rapids - Applications are now being accepted for the W.K. Kellogg Foundations Woodrow Wilson Michigan Teaching Fellows Program at Grand Valley State University. The Fellowship Program, aimed at increasing the number of science and mathematics teachers. Each Fellow selected by the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation and Grand Valley State will receive a $30,000 Fellowship in exchange for a three-year commitment to teach in a high-need secondary school. Fifteen Fellows will be selected for admission to each of the June 2012 and 2013 Grand Valley State cohorts. Midland - Northwood University will honor Bloomfield Hills, Michigan fashion designer Patricia Rhodes Prowse as part of its Distinguished Womens Award Gala. Rhodes Prowse will be recognized for her leadership, determination, compassion, and ethics in business.
10 Education Briefs
Battle Creek Kellogg Community College won four Gold Medallion awards at the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) District 3 Conference on October 25, 2011 in Detroit, Michigan. KCC took first in the Outdoor Advertising, Single Print Advertisement, Radio Advertisement, and Nifty and Thrifty categories. Ypsilanti Eastern Michigan University has named Kim Schatzel as its new provost and vice president, pending approval by the Board of Regents. The appointment will be effective Jan. 3, 2012. She currently serves as dean of the College of Business at University of Michigan-Dearborn. Lansing Heather Spielmaker, director of Thomas M. Cooley Law Schools Center for Ethics, Service and Professionalism, will receive the Ingham County Bar Associations (ICBA) Liberty Bell Award for her work helping members of the military receive legal assistance through Cooley Law Schools Service to Soldiers: Legal Assistance Referral Program. The Liberty Bell Award is the bars highest honor awarded to a non-lawyer. Grand Rapids The Davenport University Alumni Association recognized extraordinary alumni: Distinguished Alumni Award, David Slikkers, graduated in 1970, is currently the CEO of S2 Yachts, Inc., Chairman of Energetx Composites, LLC and Chairman of the Holland Area Chamber of Commerce; Hy Berkowitz Professional Excellence Award, Randall Goodyke graduated in 1990 founded DeBoer, Goodyke, Kahler & Tuttle P.C; Outstanding Young Alumni Award, Ryan Lougheed, graduated in 2004 is in Banking Operations for Retail and Investment Development at PNC Bank. Grand Rapids - The School of Engineering at Grand Valley State University is introducing a new, unique graduate assistantship program that allows students receiving a masters degree in engineering (MSE) to perform work outside of the university with West Michigan companies. Compared to an internship, where a company employs a student for a specific block of time, graduate students will be part of a company for a full year or more. Allendale - Grand Valley State University will install seven electric vehicle charging stations on the Pew Grand Rapids and Allendale campuses throughout the month of November. Five dual and two single charging stations will be installed for a total of 12 possible charging locations. Grand Rapids The Davenport University-sponsored West Michigan Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Collegiate Partnership has been awarded a $53,000 grant from the Internal Revenue Service to expand its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. Kalamazoo - A team of Western Michigan University engineering students has won first place in the second Stryker Engineering Challenge. It marked the second straight year WMU students have won the competition. Members of WMU's team and their majors are Jolica Dias; Ria Periera; Avin Castelino; and Benjamin VanDyken. Each student received an Apple iPad2 and an internship interview with Stryker. Grand Rapids Davenport University announced that Michael R. Hubbel has been appointed the Adjunct Risk Management and Insurance Scholar through the Robert P. Ashlock Adjunct Professorship grant from the Griffith Insurance Education Foundation. The universitys Institute for Professional Excellence (IPEx) program will begin delivery of online and in-seat insurance education courses at locations throughout the state including campus locations in Grand Rapids, Livonia, Kalamazoo and Lansing. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Community Colleges head softball coach, Paula Maloley, has been chosen to receive the Easton Victory Club Award from the National Fastpitch Coaches Association which recognizes her 600th victory. Grand Rapids - The College of Education at Grand Valley State University honored two outstanding educators during its convocation ceremony Wednesday, December 7. Char Firlik and Patronella Koster will receive the Outstanding Alumni Educator Award.
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14 Construction Briefs
Grand Rapids Integrated Architecture announced the addition of William (Bill) H. Swanson, PE, LEED AP, BD&C. Swanson comes to IA after working as lead electrical engineer at BETA Design Group. Additionally, Integrated Architectures newest interior designer, Andrea Nemes, spent the past six years working in Chicago for Ideation Studio. Grand Rapids Rockford Construction announced that Pride Builders Group is now fully owned by one of its founding partners, Terrell Daniels of MFSS Contracting. Pride Builders Group was created in 2008 as a joint venture between Daniels and Mike VanGessel of Rockford Construction. Daniels purchased VanGessels shares of the company and now stands as sole Owner. Kalamazoo - Walbridge, an award-winning global construction firm with headquarters in Detroit, has been named the construction management firm for the Western Michigan University School of Medicine. Walbridge will serve as theconstruction manager/constructor for a building project that will likely bring hundreds of jobs to Southwest Michigan. Grand Rapids - Advanced Green Architecture (AGA) is a green roof design and consulting company. AGA developed the Advanced Green Roof system through scientific, green roof research that resulted in the first and only system to integrate subsurface irrigation into a modular drainage layer. Kalamazoo - Amanda Mason joins CSM Group as a Project Manager. Carol Hubbard joins CSM Group as a Project Coordinator. Daniel Johnson has joined as a Construction Manager working on the Food and Beverage project delivery team. David Hiemstra joins as our new Construction Manager based out of Kansas City, Missouri. Todd Thomsen joins as a Construction Manager on our Food & Beverage project delivery team. Grand Rapids Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. wins the 2011 Contractor of the Year award given by the American Subcontractors Association of Michigan. The award banquet was held on Thursday evening at the Goei Center, located at 818 Butterworth St. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. Kalamazoo - Kevin Frye joins CSM Group as a Construction Manager on our Food & Beverage project delivery team with over 20 years of experience in the Construction industry. Doug Vrba joins CSM Group as a Project Engineer. His first assignment will be on the Kalamazoo based NACD project. Grand Rapids Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. was hired to manage a 14-week construction project at Grandville High School next summer. The estimated $1.2 million project includes installation of artificial turf and resurfacing of the running track at the high school, 4700 Canal Ave SW. Grand Rapids Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. announces the hiring of Joe Rogalski as Project Engineer for their Grand Rapids office. He will be responsible for administering the management of various commercial construction projects. Holland - Tom Smolinski, West Michigan Realtor specializing in short sales, has hired Paula Darling as a short sale negotiator responsible for pre-negotiating short sales with clients lenders, lawyers, contractors and any other lien holders on the property. Grand Rapids - Colliers Internationals Industrial Property Specialist and CEO, Duke Suwyn CCIM, SIOR has been named to the prestigious Everest Club which recognizes Suwyn as a top seller in the USA. Suwyn has been with the West Michigan firm for 16 years. Grand Rapids/Kalamazoo - Signature Associates has: Negotiated the lease of 6,500 square feet of office/health club space located at 1581 142nd Avenue, Dorr to Fit/24. Negotiated the sublease of 1,112 square feet of office space located at 450 W. Centre Avenue, Portage to Buckham Farm Bureau Agency from the landlord, The Brook, LLC. Negotiated the sale of a 56,511 square foot industrial building located at 5633 52nd Street SE, Grand Rapids to SSBB, Inc. from the seller, Bank of America. Negotiated the lease of 7,600 square feet of industrial space located at 3404 Busch Drive, Grandville from the landlord, DJR Properties, LLC, to the tenant, Stick Associates. DJR Properties. Negotiated the lease of 25,000 square feet of industrial space located at 6677 Beatrice, Kalamazoo for the tenant, Hutt Logistics. Grand Rapids Colliers International in West Michigan announced the following transactions. Trillium Ventures, MSV, LLC completed the purchase of 40,375 investment square feet at 1500 & 1510 42nd Street SE. in Grand Rapids. Trillium Ventures, MSV, LLC completed the purchase of 39,112 investment square feet located at 4095 Norman Drive SE in Grand Rapids. Leonard Hills, LLC completed the purchase of 21,802 investment square feet at 1326 Leonard Street SW in Grand Rapids. Fisk Reeds Re, LLC completed the purchase of 12,080 industrial square feet located at 3403 Lousma Drive SE, Grand Rapids Brett Patterson complete the purchase of 3,898 retail square feet located at 423 W. Main Street in Ionia. ATEK Medical, LLC leased of 85,595 industrial square feet located at 5079 33rd Street. The. Elston Richards, Inc leased of 30,960 industrial square feet located at 5738 Eagle Drive SE in Grand Rapids. R.L. Adams Plastics, Inc leased of 94,900 industrial square feet located at 7377 Expressway Drive SW in Grand Rapids. Johnson Controls, Inc. leased of 165,000 industrial square feet located at 1451 Lincoln Avenue in Holland. CLM Pallett, Inc. leased of 75,000 industrial square feet located at 3366 Kraft Ave SE in Grand Rapids. Hubbell, Roth & Clark, Inc. leased of 3,128 office space located at 801 Broadway Ave NW in Grand Rapids.
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Construction Briefs
Holland - GMB Architecture + Engineering has received a Publisher's Commendation Award in the newly pUblished Fall 2011 edition of Learning by Design magazine. Also recently announced was a Bronze Citation in American School & University 2011 Educational Interiors Showcase. Both awards honor GMB Architecture + Engineering's work on the Covenant Fine Arts Center (CFAC) at Calvin College of Grand Rapids. The CFAC is the front door of the Calvin College campus for many in the broader Grand Rapids community. It was important to maintain that connection as well as serve the college's students by creating additional practice, rehearsal, teaching and performance space. The solution was to modernize the CFAC but respect its heritage and nostalgic appeal to the community. Grand Rapids - Signature Associates has negotiated: The lease of 1,000 square feet of office space located at 3755 Remembrance, Walker, the tenant is Platinum Education Group, LLC. The sale of 2.53 acres of land located at 5375 28th Street Court, Grand Rapids, the seller, Main Street Builders, Inc. and the buyer, Cascade Hospitality. The sale of 5.00 acres of land located at 601 Hyde Street, Kalkaska,, the seller, Edgemere Enterprises, Inc. The sale of 3,850 square feet of medical office space located at 1844 Apple Avenue, Muskegon,, the seller, Citizens Bank, and the buyer, Gurden Trust. Negotiated the lease of 2,000 square feet of industrial space located at 3526 Roger B. Chaffee, Wyoming to Keystone Accents, Inc. from the landlord, Grand Rapids Corporate Center, LLC. Negotiated the lease of 25,000 square feet of industrial space located at 400 Mart Street SW, Wyoming to Hajoca Corporation from the landlord, Northtown Center, Inc. Negotiated the sale of 2.00 acres of industrial land located at 4464 44th Street SE, Kentwood to Franklin Kentwood, LLC from the seller, Quality Properties Asset Management Co. Negotiated a lease with LA Insurance Agency for space located at The Civic Theatre Building, 20 Monroe Center NE, Grand Rapids from the landlord, GR Civic Theatre. Negotiated the lease of 2,140 square feet of retail space located at 2035 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids from the landlord, Cardinal Industrial to the tenant, Smokers Discount. negotiated the sale of 15.85 acres of industrial land located at 500 Agard, Muskegon. The seller, Muskegon County, and the buyer, Nugent Sand. Walker - Berrien Springs School District's Virtual Learning Academy has recently opened a facility, which offers area students both traditional "onsite" education and online courses, features the latest advances in technology, design and materials, including storefront systems manufactured by Tubelite. Lansing - Brothers John and Charles Clark, who led the transformation of a successful commercial construction business into one of the leading, most respected organizations in the industry, were inducted into the Michigan Construction Hall of Fame on October 20. The Clark brothers also received the Distinguished Constructor Award during the ceremonies, which were held at Ferris State University. Hamilton In 2012, Michigan builder Gary Jurkovichs business will celebrate its fifth year of constructing spec and custom homes. To celebrate his continued company growth, he plans to build 55 new homes --- all with R-5 precast concrete foundations from Superior Walls.
Reshoring Phenomenon
Chesterfield Township - The reshoring phenomenon is now a reality for part marking and identification specialist, Columbia Marking Tools. According to Tom Phipps, Columbia CEO, Weve recently seen significant new business for our marking equipment as a result of several Michigan-based manufacturers intentionally reshoring capital equipment purchases to local companies. Phipps points out: Over the past year, weve seen an increased number of inquiries with a renewed emphasis on engineering know-how, high quality and fast delivery; a pleasure not to see cost as the only driver. Recently, we received an order for a specially-designed roll marking machine to place part numbers on spark plugs for a large worldwide spark plug manufacturer with facilities here in Michigan, Phipps says. Reshoring was a priority for this project. We also recently entered into a partnering agreement with ABI Systems, Inc.a designer and builder of special assembly machinesto incorporate our marking systems capabilities into a series of assembly cells for a German suspension system manufacturer with operations here in Michigan. Phipps adds: We have found that there again appears to be a real need for experienced assembly engineering design and build know-how with the ability to integrate a wide array of processes, knowledge of PLCs, motion integration and controls, testing, vision systems and, ultimately, the best methods for placing the required identification and traceability marks. Phipps adds, As North American manufacturers who still machine and design in-house, we were confident that reshoring was eventually going to happen. I only hope we havent lost all of the great manufacturing engineering minds that used to dominate our machine tool suppliers capabilities.
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18 Industrial Briefs
Allegan Perrigo Company broke ground on a planned 50,000 square-foot facility at its headquarters in Allegan. The new building will provide much needed office space for many of the employees the Company has added in recent years and as well as room for future growth. The new facility allows Perrigo to strategically manage its growth in West Michigan, and add 400 new jobs. Key features of the building, which is expected to be completed in January 2013, include: Approximately 31,000-square-feet of conference rooms and office space for approximately 200 people; A 7,500-square-foot multi-purpose area for larger meetings, conferences and training. Grand Rapids - Steelcase Inc. recently received the Inforum Board Access Award in recognition of its high percentage (36.36 percent) of women directors on its board along with fellow Michiganbased companies General Motors and Kelly Services. Allegan - Perrigo announced that Christopher Roop has joined the company as vice president of corporate development. Roop will be responsible for identifying, evaluating and pursuing acquisition targets that complement the companys strategic growth objectives. Grand Rapids - North American Trading & Logistics unveiled a new logo, tagline and website as part of its brand revitalization. In addition to offering expert risk management, North American Trading & Logistics provides consulting services and is a sourcing agent. Benton Harbor New Products Corporation (NPC) has announced the hiring of Julie Sparazynksi as the companys new human resources manager. NPC also recently filled two additional fulltime positions, including Kandy Krump in scheduling and Johnny Woods as chief guard. Zeeland - Gentex Corporation was recently recognized by the Detroit Free Press as a "Top Workplace" in Michigan for 2011. In the large company category, Gentex was the highest-rated manufacturer and ranked 4th out of the Top 25 selected. Gentex was also the recipient of a special workplace factor award for "Managers." The annual Top Workplace competition is run by Workplace Dynamics, LLC. Grand Rapids Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company announced that Josh Dykstra, formerly Eerdmans Marketing Associate, has been promoted to the position of Inside Sales Representative. Grand Rapids - Vans Delivery Service, Inc. announced that John Nieuwenhuis, Chief Operating Officer, has earned the certification of Certified Transportation Broker (CTB). Participants must earn at least five candidate points to be eligible to take the exam, which are based on professional experience and education. The participants must also have at least one year of experience working as a broker. Candidates may earn additional CTB eligibility points if they have completed formal education such as being granted a Bachelor's or Master's degree. Battle Creek - Jan Frantz, executive director of the Battle Creek/Calhoun County/Kalamazoo County Inland Port Development Corporation was designated as an Accredited Zone Specialist. The certification was conferred by the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones, a Washington, DCbased trade organization. Grand Rapids Zondervan and its creative partner Extra Credit Projects announced they have received two 2011 creative and design awards: the Communication Arts Design Annual 52 for the Chunky Bible design and the 32nd Annual Telly Award for the NIV Bibles Come Closer branded television commercial. Holland LeanLogistics announced it has been positioned by Gartner, Inc. in the Visionaries quadrant of the Magic Quadrant for Transportation Management Systems. The Magic Quadrant for Transportation Management Systems provides a graphical competitive positioning of four types of technology providers niche players, visionaries, challengers and leaders. Holland - Trendway Corporation is offering a select suite of products through national retailer Costco. Offered through Costco.com, the Quincy collection is tailored for the home and small-business office. New York, NY Former Chairman and CEO of Wolverine Worldwide, Timothy J. ODonovan, was recognized by the Fashion Footwear Association of New Yorkand presented with the Jodi Fisher Humanitarian Award. Wolverine Worldwide was recognized for not only its financial donation to the cause in 2011, but also its donation of 4,573 pairs of footwear with a retail value in excess of $422,000. Grand Rapids - Advantage Sign Supply announced the addition of the MultiCam line of CNC cutting solutions to its product offering. Its router tables include the 3000 Series, which is ideal for high-production shops producing 3-D carving, Braille signage, and acrylic fabrication. Grand Rapids Lake Michigan Auto Center announced that Kim Bray has joined the LMAC team as the general manager. Brays experience began at The Family Ford Store. Brays family owned the dealership 60 years ago from 1927 until 1987. Grand Rapids Lacks Enterprises received the Ergonomic Innovation Award from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration.The Ergonomic Innovation Award is issued to employers for innovative ideas that have been implemented to reduce worker strain. Allegan - Perrigo announced that Britt Tasker has been hired as senior talent acquisition consultant for the Human Resources team. Tasker will partner with internal customers to design and implement talent acquisition processes that identify and bring in exceptional candidates for Perrigo. Zeeland Gentex Corporation announced that it is supplying autodimming mirrors with advanced features including Automatic High-Beam Assist for the 2011/2012 Range Rover Evoque -- a compact sport utility vehicle. Holland Chef Container, LLC announces the expansion efforts of their Westshore Recycling and Transfer Station located just outside Holland in Allegan County. The building expansion will triple the size of the current facility from 6,400 sq. feet to over 27,000 sq. feet. This expansion is estimated to create up to ten (10) new jobs within the Westshore facility. Allegan - Perrigo announced that Candy Ewald has been hired as sales coordinator for the sales and marketing department. Ewald will be supporting the customer business manager and Perrigo customers through sales and marketing functions. Ann Arbor - Aastrom Biosciences, Inc. announced that Brian Gibson has been named vice president of finance, chief accounting officer and treasurer. Auburn Hills - Energy Conversion announced several actions to further management's restructuring of the business: First, the company has temporarily suspended all manufacturing operations as an inventory control measure. Second, ECD continues to execute on its restructuring plan focusing on reducing cost, expanding addressable markets and enhancing its technology. Finally, management has begun discussions with representatives of certain holders of the company's outstanding Senior Convertible Notes due 2013. Madison Heights InfuSystem Holdings, Inc. has appointed Susan Wozniak MSHS, RN, OCN(R) to the newly created position of Director of Clinical Research, Education, and Innovation. Jeffersonville, IN - The Ports of Indiana has named Scott Stewart as port director for the Port of Indiana-Jeffersonville. Stewart spent 24 years in positions of increasing responsibility with the Procter & Gamble Company before retiring in 2008 and moving back to Indiana.
Auburn Hills - United Solar announced a new customer relationship under their Open Solar initiative with GP Solar, a GP Batteries company of Hong Kong, and an initial order of 600 kilowatts of UNI-SOLAR photovoltaic cells. Wakarusa, IN - Utilimaster Corporation, a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. announced they will celebrate the launch of the Reach commercial van with a plant dedication at Utilimaster's headquarters located in Wakarusa, IN. St. Louis, MO Graybar has appointed Peter Elkas as vice president-sales, electric utility and Tom Moore as vice president-sales, broadband utility, effective Jan. 1, 2012. Elkas is a 31-year Graybar veteran who currently serves as district vice president in the companys Boston district. Moore is currently director, comm/data sales in Graybars Richmond district. Miami, FL Ryder System, Inc. announced that it has been selected by UBCR, LLC as its fleet partner in a Michigan natural gas project that includes 16 heavy duty natural gas vehicles, upgrades to two maintenance facilities, and the construction of two new
natural gas fueling stations. The natural gas project is partially funded by a grant to UBCR through the Michigan Clean Cities Coalition and when complete, will displace 380,000 gallons of diesel fuel annually with domestically produced low carbon natural gas. Aubrin Hills - United Solar announces the opening of the new Marcegaglia photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing facility in Taranto, Italy. The new PV factory combines the production of UNI-SOLAR PV laminates with Marcegaglia's metal products to produce the perfect product for PV-integrated, insulated metal roofing panels. Dearborn - Honoring the memory of Earl E. Walker, CEO, Carr Lane Manufacturing, the SME Education Foundation Board of Directors voted to move $835,000 into the Myrtle and Earl Walker Endowed Scholarship fund. The fund will now be endowed at the $2 million level and will pay out $100,000 a year in scholarships.
Next Month Topics Banking Services Physical Therpy Adult Education Wireless Comms Pharmaceuical Mfg Architecture & Engineering To be involved e-mail editor@businessupdate.com
Communication & IT
Communications & IT
Grand Rapids After five years of leadership, John Hwang, Co-Founder and CEO of Mutually Human Software, is moving on from the thriving local business he helped create. John Hwang made the mutual decision with partners Mark Van Holstyn and Zach Dennis to part ways with the company. This coincides with the fifth anniversary of Mutually Human as an L.L.C. John Hwang will be exploring new options as a software entrepreneur, while Mark Van Holstyn and Zach Dennis will continue to move Mutually Human forward. Detroit - Compuware Corporation announced the availability of the Compuware Gomez(R) China Portal 2.0. This new portal provides local-language access to the Gomez application performance management (APM) platform and provides unique value to organizations in the Chinese market, meeting increasing demand in one of the world's fastest-growing economies. Muskegon - RC Productions (RCP) owner, Randy A. Crow, announced that Amy H. Atkinson, joined RCP in 1996, has been promoted to President. and that Jane Savidge, oined the company in 1997, was promoted to Vice President. Crow started RCP in 1981will now serve as CEO of RC Productions Inc., the parent company of both RCP and its sister company, Source One Digital. Lansing Connect Michigan released new residential broadband adoption survey results revealing the top trends in technology use among key demographics in Michigan. The survey reveals that approximately 39% of Michigan residents are still not using broadband at home. Most notably, the majority of low-income, senior, disabled adult, and AfricanAmerican households are without broadband at home, leaving them facing an uphill battle in keeping up with essential online resources, job and educational opportunities, and social services. Grand Haven - AzulStar announced that it has extended its Gigabit Wireless Broadband service to greater Kalamazoo, Lansing and Muskegon, Michigan, for businesses, public institutions and multiple dwelling facilities. Lansing - Motion Marketing & Media introduced the newest members of our sales team: Marilyn Hamlin Account Executive; Colette Evangelista (Sassy) Sales Ace; Taylor Kelsaw Executive Producer. Grand Rapids - MarCom Awards announced winners for the 2011 international awards competition that recognizes outstanding creative achievement by marketing and communication professionals. There were over 6,000 entries in the 2011 competition. WGVU Public Media is very proud to be the recipient of ten MarCom Awards for their media and communication efforts. Troy - Syntel, Inc. announced that it has been awarded the CIO100 Award by IDG India's CIO magazine at the 6th Annual CIO100 Awards in Pune, India.
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Troy Revenue Development (ARD) announced a strategic alliance with Grand Rapids-based Foxbright, to help school districts across the state of Michigan leverage their websites and generate new revenue streams. ARDs UNITE Program generates non-traditional, supplemental revenue for school districts; a significant component of the program is internet based. An association with Foxbright allows ARD to offer additional assistance to their school district partners in executing and optimizing the online revenue generated by the UNITE Program. Kalamazoo - Weidenhammer, a Reading, Pa.-based company that specializes in management software for the education sector, has purchased the park's Granite Park I building, located at 4664 Campus Drive. Weidenhammer will move its current Kalamazoo staff into the site in December and expects to use the new site to move jobs from other company locations around the nation and to build a data center in the building to accommodate the cloud computing needs of its clients.
22 Hotels/Restaurants Briefs
Boyne Falls BOYNE announced the hiring of Brenda Haight, CMP, as Sales Manager of Michigan State Associations for Boyne Resorts Michigan operations. Haight will work to build upon existing relationships and expand new association business at Boyne Resorts Michigan operations. Muskegon The West Michigan Symphony has received a $10,000 grant from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Outstate Michigan in support of Link Up, the Carnegie Hall national music education program that brings music to the lives of more than 4,000 elementary students in West Michigan each year. Grand Rapids - Travel Leaders nationally has won over $139.8 million in new business accounts this year. Locally, Travel Leaders has won over $250,000 in new accounts this past quarter from Grand Rapids businesses. Grand Rapids Experience Grand Rapids and the Kent County Lodging Association announced the 2011 winners of the 4th Annual WAVE Awards a program that recognizes outstanding service providers in the Grand Rapids and Kent County hospitality industry. 2011 winners include: Dining: Mary Metts, JW Marriott Grand Rapids; Lodging: Norina Cadili, JW Marriott Grand Rapids; Nightlife: Chris Kenyan, The Gilmore Collection; Transportation: Terron Smith, The Rapid; Retail & Service: Brittany Carter, Rylee's Ace Hardware; Attractions/Events: Patty Alexander, Meijer State Games of Michigan. Muskegon Shoreline Inn & Conference Center joined the Ascend Collection membership program from Choice Hotels International Inc. While Shoreline Inn remains independently owned, through its membership, the hotel gains global reservations and distributions systems. Douglas In the facility previously known as the Bier Hall, SBC has upgraded dcor, expanded services and has hired Jodie Howitt to serve exclusively as Event Coordinator for the newly named Singapore Room, a full service banquet facility complete with bar, stage, dance floor and multiple lighting options and can accommodate well over 200 seated guests. Hickory Corners - The Gilmore Car Museum announced the appointment of David L. Hatfield, a longtime area bank executive, to the position of Director of External Affairs. Hatfield will work toward building community relations, strengthening the museums membership base, and growing its endowment and support for the museums expanding operations. Grand Rapids Suburban Inns welcomes Lucas Ulberg as its new manager of property development. Ulberg will be focused on the companys growth through new projects and will be responsible for managing new construction projects and remodels. Byron Center - Railside Golf Club is celebrating its 20th anniversary by thanking the community it serves and partnering with Mel Trotter Ministries. From November 1 to November 20, the Railside Bar and Grille, Railside Golf Clubs public dining restaurant, will offer the community a 20-20-20-20 promotion --- a one-time special commemorating the past 20 years, over 20 days, with a $20 dinner special and 20 percent of the proceeds benefiting Mel Trotters women and childrens programs.
State of the art Boardroom Ballroom capacity for up to 400 guests Complimentary wireless internet access Discounted rates for 10 or more guestrooms per night Personalized service and packages for all types of events Convenient location to expressways and the airport
www.grandrapids.hilton.com
4747 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids Contact the Sales Department at
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Corporate Information
Grand Rapids Zondervan has established a publishing partnership with former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Under the agreement, Zondervan will release three Christian titles, including a childrens book inspired by President Carter, as well as a trade book title and a Bible title that will both be authored by the nations 39th President. Grand Rapids Lambert Edwards & Associates, Inc. announced it has acquired Atlanta-based IR Squared, an investor relations firm with a roster of national public company clients. IR Squared principal Robert Burton has joined Lambert Edwards as Managing Director and head of the firms Financial Communications practice. Grand Rapids Frey Foundation Chairman David Frey announced the appointment of Steve Wilson as the foundations next president. Effective January, 2012, Wilson will succeed Milt Rohwer, who will retire this December, after 13 years as foundation president. Grand Rapids Interphase Interiors announced that Andrew Kotman has joined the companys Grand Rapids operations as an account executive. Kotman brings nearly 10 years of work experience. Michigan - The 2011 Michigan Womens Hall of Fame honorees in the CONTEMPORARY CATEGORY are: Dr. Lois A. Bader of Lansing ; Jumana Judeh of Dearborn; Justice Marilyn Kelly of Bloomfield Hills; Edelmira Delma Lopez of Lansing; Kary Moss of Ann Arbor; Rose Mary C. Robinson of Detroit; Tricia McNaughton Saunders, born in Ann Arbor. The Hall of Fame honoree in the HISTORICAL CATEGORY is: Valeria Lipczynski of Grand Rapids emigrated from Poland and dedicated her life to serving the Polish American community. The Philip A. Hart Award is presented annually to Scott Burgess, Community Relations & Advertising Specialist for the Accident Fund Holding, Inc. West Michigan - The West Michigan Internship Initiative announce the latest round of funding support received from the Community Foundation for Muskegon in the amount of $5,000. According the Community Research Institute's report, in Muskegon County there are 454 NPOs employing 8,145 people and representing more than $385 million in economic impact. Grand Rapids When West Michigan Co-op (the Co-op) opened for business in November 2006, the organization became the first year-round local food source in the Grand Rapids area and only the second online farmers market in the nation. Five years later, the Co-op is celebrating its anniversary and continued growth with a promotion for new members. Grand Rapids The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan has received a $1.5 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for a three-year Latino Community Development Project to be carried out from September 2011 to August 2014. The Latino Community Development Project will provide important and stable support for: the Centers Latino leadership development efforts; expansion of the Centers education and civic engagement program; and expansion of the Centers core immigration services and advocacy for immigrant families. Holland Peter Rhoades, Board Chair for The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland announced that Craig Spoelhof has accepted the position of Executive Director, effective immediately. Spoelhof has been acting as the Interim Executive Director since August 2011. Grand Rapids - Deksia received recognition from Print Magazines 2011 Regional Design Annual for their winning entry, Second Time Around. Grand Rapids Full service public relations firm Clark Communications announces that it has relocated to 131 South Division Avenue, Suite 100. As part of this move to the Heartside area, the firm announced its intention to tithe 10% of its revenue in 2012 to helping Heartside residents that are entrepreneurs. Lansing - Horizen Hydroponics has opened their 4th location in Lansing located at 5425 West Saginaw Highway across from the Lansing Mall. Owners John and Bridgette Ujlaky feel education is a core principal at Horizen Hydroponics. Grand Rapids - Jeff Hartnagel has opened the doors to Play It Again Sports situated at 3560 Alpine Avenue in Grand Rapids. Play It Again Sports buys gently-used, quality sports equipment and gear and offers cash on the spot for the items. Grand Rapids - Kantorwassink won recognition from the Creativity 41st International Awards for: their work promoting the Grand Re-Opening of Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital; and The recent marketing campaign to promote disaster readiness for the Kent County Sheriffs Office of Emergency Management. Grand Rapids - Kantorwassink's Client Holiday Gift was featured as one of last year's best self promotions in the Septemeber/October Issue of How Magazine. Lansing - Gov. Rick Snyder announced six appointments and three reappointments to the 25-member Michigan Community Service Commission, which works to create and strengthen a culture of service and volunteerism. Appointments: Julie Calley, of Portland; Michael Lavoie, of Bloomfield Township; Fred Mester, of Bloomfield Hills; Watson Olson, of Gwinn; John Truscott, of Okemos. Reappointments: Donna Niester, of Fort Gratiot; Marsha Smith, of Traverse City; Larry Williamson, of Grand Rapids.
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Grand Rapids Michigan Works! Kent & Allegan Counties fourth annual Essential Service Awards Ceremony (ESAs) recognized 10 local individuals for their top job performance. The ESAs are known for honoring local men and women who perform important, but traditionally, undervalued jobs and the important roles those individuals play in West Michigans economy. Melvin Williams YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, Cleaning/Housekeeping Category; Angie McKeown Minnie Sophronas Restaurant and Bake Shop, Foodservice Category; Esther Rop MOKA, Healthcare Category; Jim Vizard Crowne Plaza Grand Rapids, Hospitality Category; Phil Zimmerman Allegra Marketing Print Mail, Transportation Category; Debbie Beilstein Macatawa Bank, Retail Category; Dave LaBotz Kent ISD, Government Category; Muli Muthiani MOKA, Nonprofit Category; Warpeerig Mukuag Butterball Farms, Inc., General Labor Category; Nicole Staszkiewicz YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, Childcare Category;
Review of Re-Engage
economic times? Yes, they do, say human resources experts Leigh Branham and Mark Hirschfeld. They argue that, since the economic meltdown of 2008, keeping your employees engaged is more important than ever. Using vivid real-world examples, employees comments and compelling data, Branham and Hirschfeld demonstrate how your company can join the list of elite employers. In fact, they may provide a bit too much information; their book features so many lists of possible tactics that readers may feel overwhelmed at times. Still, getAbstract is confident that the book provides solid information for senior managers and HR professionals. In short, Branham and Hirschfeld ably demonstrate how, when times get tough, the best keep going. Leigh Branham and Mark Hirschfeld. Re-Engage: How America's Best Places to Work Inspire Extra Effort in Extraordinary Times. McGraw-Hill, 2010. 368 pages. List Price: $29.95. ISBN-13: 978-0071703109. getAbstract is the leading provider of business book summaries, with more than 6,000 titles covered. www.getabstract.com
By Rolf getAbstract
Dobelli,
Chairman,
Best places to work lists might seem like vestiges of another, more prosperous age. Do employers still have to worry about employee satisfaction in hard