update

1993-2013

Business

July 2013 $2.00

ublication

Cover Story: Steelcase A Grand Rapids Icon

Community Colleges Dental/Vision/Hearing Construction Finance

Inside Features

2 Mortgage Industry Insights - 2013

By Cindy Lowman Its clear that the record low interest rates America has seen in recent years will soon give way to higher rates, and that raises many questions about how the mortgage industry will be affected especially as new Dodd Frank rules take full effect in January 2014. Just as its hard to project what will become normal with respect to gas prices and unemployment rates, no one can be sure what the new norm will be for interest rates on home loans going forward. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke has indicated rates will likely stay low through 2015 to help ensure continued recovery from the long and painful housing crisis we have recently experienced. But at the same time, rates just jumped 1 percent. Funding sources like lending giants Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae are once again profitable even as they remain monitored by, and under the conservatorship of, the Federal Housing Finance Agency. So what will all this mean? Rates will certainly have to rise, although the Fed will likely limit the increase out of concern that too dramatic of a move could jeopardize the still-fragile recovery in housing. And there are hopeful signs locally. West Michigan is showing excellent signs of pent-up demand for both purchase and construction, with lenders positioning themselves to compete for that business. Both borrowers and lenders will benefit from these dynamics as we move into the second half of 2013. Borrowers have expectations of completing their construction phase and financing longterm into an affordable mortgage, which compels lenders to offer a number of mortgage options to meet their needs. In January 2014, consumers will see more impact from Dodd Frank as compliance dates arrive. Some may no longer qualify for mortgages because of the Ability to Repay portion of the act, which requires lenders to document substantially more information for each borrower. For example, in addition to new maximum levels of points and fees, there is a 43 percent maximum debt-to-income ratio imposed on each borrower. This is designed to provide a safe harbor for lenders by protecting them from damage claims and defenses by borrowers. More than the impending rate changes, new requirements of the Dodd Frank regulations will challenge the mortgage industry going forward as the costs of both compliance and non-compliance become major topics in lender board rooms across the country. Cindy Lowman is the President of United Bank Mortgage Corporation.

Optimism Blooms: Michigans Small Business Leaders Poised to Invest and Grow
Lansing The latest Michigan Future Business Index survey of small and midsize business leaders shows unequalled confidence in the states business economy and a rekindled desire to reinvest in their own future. Business owners said they have seen added growth in their businesses over the past six months and now plan to make investments in their workforce through increased wages and training. The Michigan Future Business Index surveys continue to show increasing evidence that Michigans business climate is improving, Mike Britt, president of Accident Fund Insurance Company of America, said. Accident Funds customer base is primarily comprised of small- and mid-size businesses, so we are happy to see Michigan businesses continue to grow and prosper. A healthy business climate in Michigan is good for everyone. The previous Michigan Future Business Index survey, conducted in October 2012, showed indications of moderated optimism among businesses that had been incrementally building since 2010. The survey pointed to setbacks in the national economy, the fear of the then-looming fiscal cliff, and the uncertainty of the then-unrealized presidential election as reasons for the pullback. With most of those concerns now in the rearview mirror, optimism appears to have picked up again. With expanded reports of growing sales and profits coupled with continued exuberance for new product and service launches businesses are planning for future growth. Most see their workforce as their biggest asset and plan to increase wages and educational and training opportunities. Employers cite growing challenges to finding qualified talent to fill open positions. While the challenges of dealing with new government regulations and implementation of the Affordable Care Act remain, most say they will continue to offer benefits to workers, albeit requiring more out-of-pocket employee contributions. After a short stall in positive momentum in October of 2012, the June 2013 survey shows small business employers have renewed their enthusiasm toward the state economy in a big way. Satisfaction with the state economy has rocketed 13 points to 54 percent since October 2012, while dissatisfaction has plummeted to 44 percent. This marks the first time business leader satisfaction with the direction of the economy has reached a majority since the Michigan Future Business Index survey began in 2006. The percentage of businesses with new hires is now the highest it has been since the survey started with 25 percent now saying they have hired more employees over the past six months, up four points since October 2012. New hiring is the strongest in Metro Detroit (27%) and the Lansing region (26%). There is also a significant increase in hiring among businesses with more than 20 employees (37%); those with revenues of $5 million or more (40%); and within the real estate, finance and insurance industries (35%). Continued on page 15

3 Community Colleges: Higher Ed, Lower Cost, Lifetime Employability.

By Jane Whittington Community colleges are invaluable resources to both the students and the communities they serve. They prepare students to go on to a four year-institution, train skilled workers, offer those newly arrived to our country a place to learn and grow and partner with other community resources for projects and programs. As the cost of a college education skyrockets, technology evolves at a dizzying pace and skilled employees are in increasing demand by a growing, skill-based economy, community colleges continue to be at the leading edge of the educational challenges that face this country. A recent report in the Chronicle of Higher Education by Ron Jenkins, associate professor of English at Georgia Perimeter College and author of Building a Career in Americas Community Colleges, says, Community colleges excel in workforce development and training, delivering technical training (and retraining) for thousands of students, enabling them to earn a decent living and powering the economy in many parts of the nation. He continues, Many companies do not have their own training facilities and count on local community colleges to provide skilled workers. Community colleges also provide remedial education, giving under-performing students the opportunity to catch up. A recent national report, Core Principles for Transforming Remedial Education, says, Half of all undergraduates and 70 percent of community college students take at least one remedial course. Jenkins says, Given the countrys shifting demographics and the financial difficulties faced by most school systems, that trend seems unlikely to change. He continues, Community colleges are uniquely structured to provide the kind of intensive, personalized support such students need. Jenkins goes on to say, The main reason community colleges will remain viable educational options for years to come is that our institutions are such a great value. Tuition and fees for a full-time student are about a third of what students pay at a large, state research institution and about half of what they pay at smaller, regional universities. Many of our students live at home, which reduces their expenses even more. The American Association of Community Colleges released a policy brief in 2012 concerning the current state of community college education in the United States. In it, they say, Between 1993 and 2009, the student body on community college campuses shifted. For instance, students under the age of 18 are increasingly enrolling. This group has a greater proportion of various risk factors when compared to all of those in higher education. These colleges provide access to nearly half of all minority undergraduate students and more than 40 percent of students living in poverty. Recent studies show that community colleges are increasingly respected as offering a good education. In 2010, the Associated Press released a poll which said that 71 percent of the public believes that it is sometimes better to start at a community college than at a four-year college. A recent report from the White House focuses on efforts to strengthen Americas community colleges. It can be accessed at www.whitehouse.gov/issues/education/hi gher-education/building-american-skillsthrough-community-colleges Muskegon Community College (MCC) has over 5,000 students with an average age of just over 26. According to Tina Dee, Director of Community Relations and Foundation Director, Just over 41 percent of our students receive associate degrees while over 58 percent receive transfer degrees and go on to a four-year institutions. MCC has agreements with Grand Valley, Western and Ferris, as well as some smaller colleges, for easy transfer of credits from MCC. MCC also offers an onsite option for students to take classes from four-year institutions; the Stevenson Center for Higher Education offers courses from Grand Valley, Ferris and Western. Continued on page 6

Steelcase: A Grand Rapids Icon

By Jane Whittington 2012 marked the 100th birthday of Steelcase, long a respected homegrown business and a valued corporate citizen in Grand Rapids. And Grand Rapids is not alone in its admiration for the innovative products Steelcase designs, manufactures and sells. At the most recent annual NeoCon, a gathering of the best and brightest in the world of commercial interior appointments, Steelcase was honored with four Best of NeoCon awards as well as an award for innovation. In 2012, Fortune magazine recognized Steelcase as one of its most admired businesses. So its not only Grand Rapids that regards Steelcase as one of the worlds premier businesses providing furniture, products and services designed to enhance the work setting while maintaining social, economic and environmental sustainability. Steelcase began in 1912 as The Metal Office Furniture Company. Their first innovation was a humble one: a steel wastebasket. At the time, straw wastebaskets were in use, but they were a significant fire hazard. This led to metal desks and other furnishings, and the company has flourished ever since. The Steelcase trademark was launched to emphasize the durability of the products, and the company officially changed its name to Steelcase in 1954. It became a publicly traded company in 1998. A portion of the stock continues to be held by the founding families of Peter M. Wege, Walter D. Idema and David D. Hunting. Worldwide, Steelcase employs between 12,000 and 13,000 with about 4,000 in Grand Rapids, split between the main campus and three local factories. They have manufacturing and other facilities throughout the world Their sprawling campus on 44th Street showcases their unique take on the business place of today and the future. It is open, airy, bright, colorful and casual. Informal configurations of furnishings allow for collaboration. Walls are often glass, adding to the feeling of openness, and technology is fully appreciated and applied throughout the building. Nancy Hickey, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, says, Theres so much more to space than just what is put into it. What is around us in our main office here was once a traditionally laid out office building, an atmosphere which was essentially static. Now the whole idea is that work is done in lots of different places in lots of different ways. Everything I can see at my computer on my desk, I can see on my phone. I dont need to be sitting at my desk to do work. She continues, When we are working with our customers, we want to know what they are trying to accomplish in their space. We are creating a total environment for a particular organization with their own desired results for their space. We spend a lot of time figuring out exactly what works best for our customers. So the Steelcase of today is more interested in how to design the space for the most effective results than it is in simply selling furniture to any given business. And their own offices are, in effect, a way for them to experiment with what works so they can then offer that to their customers. Hickey says, We dont think our employees are much different from employees anywhere, wanting places where they can work effectively. Less time is spent in formal offices; technology makes us mobile. Here in this facility, only about 40 percent of our employees work consistently in an assigned office space. She continues, I think the smart phone has changed our work habits more than anything else. But a worker needs different kinds of tools and different kinds of spaces to be most effective. Its also true that some of these technological tools can take us farther apart; we need to also make room for collaboration. Thats the idea behind all the different configurations within the work space. Integral to the success of the Steelcase brand is the extensive research that goes into their design plans. According to Hickey, Research provides insight around design, trends, space concepts and employee needs and desires. Environmental sustainability is not just a buzz word to Steelcase. They actively strive to maintain and even go

Business

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Publisher: Gary Kralapp

Business Development Senior Vice President: Diane LaPreze Senior Vice President: Jim Lroy Circulation: Aubrey Day Contributing Writers: Cindy Lowman, Jane Whittington, Cristina VanWieren, Luke Van Der Male

beyond the best and most current standards. They are always working to research and adopt best practices of sustainability through design, manufacture, delivery and product lifecycle. The Steelcase website, www.steelcase.com, includes a wealth of information about the company and its products. Included on the website are the designs which were honored with the NeoCon awards, including a Gold Award for the Gesture chair, described on the website as the first chair designed to support our interactions with todays technologies. It was inspired by the movement of the human body and created for the way we work today. Steelcase is committed to each of the communities in which they are located, and their philanthropic gifts are legend. In Grand Rapids, they are strong supporters of United Way, a partnership that has sustained causes throughout the community. The arts are another focus of corporate giving. Urban education remains a cause close to the heart of the company and reflects Steelcases belief in being a responsible corporate citizen. The newly built University Prep on Division benefited from both monetary contributions and Steelcases expertise in the helping design the spaces and furnishings of the building. Steelcase has been part of our Furniture City for one hundred years, and it is looking ahead to continued success, excellence and innovation as it enters its second hundred years. Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

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5 The Construction Industry: Looking to the Future

By Jane Whittington The strength of the construction industry is one key indicator of the soundness of the economy. Since the beginning of the most recent recession, said by the National Bureau of Economic Research to have begun in December of 2007, the construction industry has suffered, but West Michigan has fared better than most other areas of the state and the nation. Anirban Basu, Chief Economist for the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of America, spoke to the Western Michigan Chapter of the ABC in December of 2012. At that time, he reported that construction employment fell starting in March of 2007 and continued to decline through September of 2009. At that time, there was an increase in construction employment, but the industry continued to be volatile through August of 2012. He further stated that while manufacturing in Michigan saw an increase of 15,200 jobs between October of 2011 and 2012, and professional and business services added 14,700 jobs, the construction industry lost 5,400 jobs during that same period. The picture in Grand Rapids was slightly brighter with manufacturing adding 1,500 jobs, professional and business services adding 2,400 jobs and mining, logging and construction combined losing only 200 jobs. Similarly, housing starts in the United States fell to a new low in September of 2008 but were showing slow and steady progress in June of 2012. By September of 2012, Grand Rapids was showing modest increases in both residential and non-residential construction spending. Basu wrote an article in Construction Executive Magazine in late 2012 with his predictions for 2013. He said, Various leading economic indicators have been trending higher.These economic indicators have been up for six of the last seven months, signifying continued economic expansion is the most likely outcome. The nation added more than 1.8 million jobs during the past year.In other words, Americans are both producing and consuming more output. He continued, All of this positive economic momentum has contributed to a stabilization of nonresidential construction. MiBiz magazine reported in December of 2012 that the residential market was regaining losses incurred during the recession. MiBiz further stated, With housing starts and multifamily building leading the way, residential construction spending is up across a number of West Michigan markets, including Battle Creek, Muskegon- Norton Shores, Kalamazoo-Portage, Holland-Grand Haven and Grand Rapids-Wyoming. According to a report from the US Census Bureau in April of 2013, construction was up 4.3 percent over the previous April and the first quarter of 2013 was up 4.5 percent over the previous year. Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

Michigans Economy Benefits

Washington International trade supports an estimated 1.1 million jobs in Michigan and generated $57.7 billion in goods exports in 2012. Business Roundtable highlights these and other important facts about the benefits of trade to Michigans economy in a new state-bystate analysis. Trade is a powerful engine for economic growth, supporting American jobs and increasing U.S. exports to countries around the world, said Business Roundtable President John Engler. With 95 percent of the worlds population outside of the United States, and more than one in five American jobs supported by trade, U.S. international trade and investment agreements have a major role to play in maximizing economic growth in Michigan and all 50 states. Drawing from new Business Roundtable research and U.S. government data, the facts and figures highlighted in the Michigan state analysis provide in-depth details on the many economic benefits of trade and U.S. trade agreements, including: Michigans trade-related employment grew 9 percent, while total jobs decreased, from 2004 to 2011. Michigans goods exports have grown five and a half times faster than state GDP since 2002. Ninety-one percent of Michigan exporters are small- and medium-sized companies with fewer than 500 workers. U.S. trade with free trade agreement (FTA) partner countries has led to export growth, and since 2002, Michigans goods exports to FTA partners have increased by 54 percent. In 2012, $39.2 billion of Michigans goods exports, or 68 percent, went to FTA partners. Foreign-owned companies invest in the United States and employ more than 140,000 workers in Michigan. For more information, visit the Roundtables website at www.brt.org/trade or the coalitions website at www.tradebenefitsamerica.org.

6 Community Colleges: Higher Ed, Lower Cost, Lifetime Employability.

Continued from page 3 She continues, Over the last five years, our top ten associate degrees have been the ASA (associate in science and arts) transferrable degree; the AAS (associate of applied science) in nursing; the diploma in practical nursing (LPN); the AAS in respiratory therapy; the AAS in industrial technology; the AAS in management; the AAS in electronics technology; the AAS in automotive; the AAS in computer aided drafting and design; and the AAS in welding. The nursing program is well-regarded for producing top notch RNs and LPNs. Dee says, Our graduates who take the national licensing exams consistently score higher than both the Michigan and national averages. As part of MCCs commitment to the community, they provide employee training opportunities to companies in Western Michigan. Dee says, Approximately 125 employers from Muskegon, Ottawa, Oceana and Newaygo countries call upon us to sharpen their employees talent and skills. Dee continues, MCC has many options for high school students to earn college credit. Students may be dual enrolled at their home high schools while also taking one or two classes at MCC. Generally, the school district pays the costs for tuition and books for these students. Another option involves high school students in career-tech programs. There are several classes at the Muskegon Career Tech Center where students can earn both high school and college credit for the same courses under a Direct Credit program. A third option is the new Early College program; high school students take a combination of college and high school classes. Students continue in high school for a 13th year, and the end result is that students have both a high school diploma and an associate degree at the end of that year. MCC is currently partnering with school leaders in both Ottawa and Newaygo Counties to develop the Early College program there. Dee adds, MCC just finished its second year of a new entrepreneurial program offering 15 interdisciplinary entrepreneur associate degrees. This program is guided by an advisory group of successful entrepreneurs. Throughout the program, students interact with local business leaders and gain practical insight into what is required to start and maintain a successful business. For more information on programs at Muskegon Community College, visit their website at www.muskegoncc.edu. Grand Rapids Community College is coming close to an auspicious anniversary. They will celebrate their one hundredth birthday next year. The oldest community college in the state as well as the seventh largest, they report an annual unduplicated head count in all programs at about 32,000 students. In the fall of 2012, they enrolled 17,426 degree-seeking students. According to Eric Mullen, Associate Dean of Enrollment Management and Financial Aid, Sixty to 65 percent of our degree seeking students transfer to a fouryear institution, and the transfer associate degree is our most popular program. Our nursing programs are also highly regarded, and we have waiting lists for those programs. Weve long been known as a good college for culinary students, and this continues to be an in-demand program. Business is another strong program, and, of course, anything in allied health, both certificate and degree programs, are popular. We also offer a Police Academy here. During the period of the latest recession, enrollment at community colleges in general and at GRCC in particular has been declining. However, the decline is small and relatively insignificant. Another reason for the decline is that funds intended for retraining and educating displaced workers have been cut. Continued on page 8

7 Seeing the Big Picture

Grand Rapids Ophthalmology a Leader in West Michigan Vision Industry
By Cristina VanWieren Imagine waking up on a Saturday morning, rubbing the sleep out of your eyes. Finally lifting your eyelids for a peek at the day, you experience bright flashes or lightning strikes in one eye. Forget that round of golf or trip to the lake. Whether you call your doctor, optometrist, or head straight to the ER, chances are you will end up being examined by an ophthalmologist and possibly undergoing surgery that same day. That surgeon may very well be a member of Grand Rapids Ophthalmology. With 7 locations and 11 ophthalmologists, GRO doctors meet the oncall needs of their own patients and often for hospitals and other practices in the West Michigan area. So what is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist? Optometrists offer routine eye care prescribing spectacles, contact lenses, and medications for eye diseases and injuries. An ophthalmologist handles vision problems that are medical in nature. In fact, an ophthalmologist is a doctor first, having gone to medical school and then on to specialize in ophthalmology. Most ophthalmologists are surgeons and many of the doctors at GRO have also obtained a sub-specialty in areas such as glaucoma, the retina, or pediatrics. I spent some time talking with Bob Wolford, the executive director at GRO, wondering what is new in the vision industry and what sets GRO apart from its competition. Quite a bit, I discovered. Recently, Dr. Marcus Muallum, a GRO partner and surgeon, performed the first iStent surgery in West Michigan. The iStent is good news for people with cataracts and glaucoma, as it is designed to allow fluid in the eye to transition better, relieving pressure and reducing or eliminating the need for expensive and often difficult to administer eye-drop medication. What about the basics? So many of us need glasses for our day-to-day activities. Fifteen years ago, GRO established its own optical lab, preparing lenses on site. We have great lab people, Bob told me. A recent investment in digital surfacing technology has widened the scope of lenses GRO offers. VSP and Spectera, two of the vision industrys main insurers, named GROs lab as their proprietary lab and will pay for lenses made at GRO. Being big has its benefits as well as its drawbacks. GRO offers a great deal of convenience with its lab services and various locations. It also provides patients with the care of a variety of specialists. We cannot rest on our laurels because we are big, Bob said. Patients may perceive a bigger office or organization as impersonal. The staff at GRO work hard to keep up with new advancements, get the word out and give great customer service. We want our patients to walk away feeling they had a personal and caring experience. Cristina VanWieren is a high school math teacher and aspiring writer.

Health Care Briefs

Grand Rapids The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan moved to their new office, 3215 Eaglecrest Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. All phone numbers and staff e-mails will remain the same. Grand Rapids Paul Twydell, DO, joined Spectrum Health Medical Group as Neurologist specializing in neuromuscular medicine. His expertise includes electromyography and nerve conduction studies, muscle biopsies, and botulinum toxin injections for spasticity and certain movement disorders. Grand Rapids Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital was awarded the Practice Greenhealth Environmental Leadership Award. To be considered for this award, facilities must meet the criteria for Practice Greenhealths mercury-free award, recycle at least 25 percent of their total waste stream while holding regulated medical waste to 8 percent or less. Grand Rapids Staci Shell RD, Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Contract Coordinator at Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, received Young Dietitian of the Year Award by Michigan Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for her creation and implementation of Conquering the Kitchen, a cooking class for male caregivers. The class also received a Best Practice award in 2012 from the Healthy Aging Dietetics Practice Group. Spring Lake Common Sense Dental now offers the Contour Healer, a dental implant healing cap intended to guide gingival healing to replicate the anatomy of the original root form. Grand Rapids Board of Directors of Network180 announced selection of Scott Gilman, MSA, CBHE, LBSW, of Auburn, to serve as Executive Director. Kalamazoo A new Borgess Womens Health practice is now open at 2545 Capital Ave., Suite 207, Battle Creek. Travis Terrell, MD, provides obstetrical and gynecological care for the practice which joins an impressive professional network that specializes in womens care for residents of Kalamazoo, Plainwell, Portage, and now Battle Creek. Grand Rapids Pine Rest Van Andel Cook Center for Dementia and Geriatric Behavioral Health will open to patients June 27, 2013. It is second in a 3-phase $12.24 million expansion project on the Pine Rest campus, which will create continuum of services for seniors including an older adult inpatient unit along with outpatient services such as neuropsychological evaluation, memory disorder assessment and treatment recommendations, as well as diagnosis and treatment for the often complicated cognitive and behavioral health concerns faced by seniors. Wyoming Metro Health Hospital received the following marketing and design awards for its new advertising campaign, Your Health, Our Passion: Bronze award for Total Ad Campaign with TV from Healthcare Marketing Report; Merit awards for Newspaper series and Special video, also from Healthcare Marketing Report; Gold award for Billboard design from Aster Awards; and Silver award for its emergency room billboards from Aster Awards.

8 Compassion and Communication

West Michigan Hearing Services Provides Personal Care
By Cristina VanWieren Most of us have found ourselves on one side of hearing loss or the other. Maybe you have trouble hearing only certain sounds. Or perhaps you live with someone who has experienced hearing loss. Either way, communication issues arise and the results are frustrating. Communication is key to any successful relationship and hearing loss impedes our ability to communicate. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders (NIDCD), about 17 percent of adult Americans report some degree of hearing loss. NIDCD estimates that only one in five people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually wear one. Dr. Ed Szumowski, licensed audiologist and owner of West Michigan Hearing services, says the most satisfying part of his job is helping improve the quality of life for his patients with hearing trouble. With the ease of online shopping, many are turning to the internet to purchase hearing aids. Shoppers are lured by lower prices, but are often unaware that amplification devices are not as simple as insert and go. Audiologists like Dr. Szumowski help patients determine which devices and circuits are most appropriate, plan for an adjustment protocol, and provide follow up care all of which are necessary to ensure that patients adjust to and get the most benefit from their hearing aids. Along with advancements in wireless connectivity have come great improvements to hearing aides. With blue-tooth streamers, patients with hearing loss can watch and listen to their favorite TV programs, use cell-phones, and even enjoy listening to iPods or other audio devices. Another advancement in the hearing industry is CaptionCall, a voice recognition system for telephones. This technology captures the voice of the hearing person and reproduces it as text for the hearing impaired person to read. CaptionCall changes lives, allowing hearing-impaired persons to make and receive phone calls just like everybody else. West Michigan Hearing Services is a lot like the family doctors office of the past. They work with the same patients and their families over long periods of time, build lasting relationships and provide a wide range of services. Also, Dr. Szumowski does public speaking on hearing and hearing loss issues. With the help of his wife, he does some advertising, but on a smaller scale and with a personal touch marketing approach. The practice relies mainly on word of mouth and referrals from other healthcare professionals. The business of audiology is growing. In fact, a shortage of audiologists is expected over the next ten years. Hearing loss is more prevalent among older adults. With the growing number of adults in their 50s and the fact that we are living longer, more audiologists will be needed, meaning more or expanded practices like West Michigan Hearing Services. Cristina VanWieren is a high school math teacher and aspiring writer.

Health Care Briefs

Grand Rapids Helen DeVos Children's Hospital continues expansion of its Pediatric Cardiac Program with appointment of interventional Pediatric Cardiologist Joseph Vettukattil, MD, as Division Chief of Pediatric Cardiology. Grand Rapids Spectrum Health is one of four U.S. hospital systems awarded Healthcare Financial Management Associations 2013 MAP Award for High Performance in Revenue Cycle. Kalamazoo Borgess Sleep Disorders Center will open a new regional facility Sunday, July 7, at Borgess Woodbridge Hills-South building, 8001 Angling Rd., Portage. It is a full-service, 4-bed sleep laboratory led by William Katz, MD, Director of Sleep Medicine, and Alice Doe, MD. Grand Rapids The second of a 3-phase expansion project for the Pine Rest campus - Pine Rest Van Andel Cook Center for Dementia and Geriatric Behavioral Health - was dedicated June 26, 2013, with 10,092 sq. ft of new construction and renovation of existing 11,182 sq. ft. In total, this is a $12.24 million investment of Pine Rest facilities. Lansing Members of Michigan Health & Hospital Association elected 2013 officers and board members. Board members from west Michign include: Sally Berglin, Bronson LakeView Hospital and Bronson Healthcare Group; John Graham, St. Marys of Michigan; David Jahn, War Memorial Hospital; Timothy Johnson, Eaton Rapids Medical Center; and Joe Mullany, Detroit Medical Center. Current Board Member Robert Riney Sr., Henry Ford Health System, was reappointed to a new term. Current Board Members continuing are: Edward Bruff, Covenant HealthCare; Brian Connolly, Oakwood Healthcare Inc.; Michael Falatko, Hills & Dales General Hospital; Loren Hamel, MD, Lakeland HealthCare; Paul LaCasse, DO, Botsford Hospital; Gregory R. Lane, McLaren Health Care; Sheryl Lewis Blake, Pennock Health Services; A. Gary Muller, Marquette General Hospital; Rodney Nelson, Mackinac Straits Health System, Inc.; Edwin Ness, Munson Healthcare; Annette Phillips, Mercy Memorial Hospital System; Matthew Van Vranken, Spectrum Health Delivery System; and Mark Vipperman, Memorial Medical Center of West Michigan. In addition, Spencer Johnson continues to serve as President. Grand Rapids Three Pine Rest psychiatrists have positions on Michigan Psychiatric Society Board (MPS), and one completed his term: Eric Achtyes, MD, MS, attending Psychiatrist Pine Rest, and Director Division of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Michigan State University - College of Human Medicine, moved from his position of President-Elect to President of MPS; Dr. Michael Fusillo, Pine Rest Hospital Medical Director, was recently elected as Councilor; Dr. William Sanders, DO, Pine Rest Residency Director and attending Psychiatrist, elected Councilor; and Dr. Isha Salva, member of Pine Rest Behavioral Health Solutions, elected Councilor. These board members are volunteers.

Metro Health Hospital Foundation Grants

Continued from page 6 GRCC has a robust program to work with up and coming entrepreneurs. Mullen says, This is a very interactive, hands-on program line of course work. Weve been offering this for two or three years, and its proven quite successful at helping students develop their business skills. Mullen continues, We also offer a lot of job training programs for area businesses. These can either be off-the-shelf courses weve developed over time or customized to the particular businesses needs. GRCC works with colleges and universities throughout the state to assure students that their credits will transfer to the next institution they attend. There is also a satellite campus of Ferris State University on the GRCC campus where students can take classes. According to Mullen, We have developed what we call a Middle College wherein students at area high schools can take classes throughout their high school careers at GRCC and receive credit for both high school and college work and can graduate from high school with both a diploma and an associate degree. He continues, It is sometimes surprising to me as I go out to talk with parents and students that they express concerns about how well this whole system works. They worry that the transfer to a four=year institution will be difficult. But we have 5,000 students successfully transferring every year from GRCC. However, we have an excellent academic reputation as well as tried and tested articulation pathways for transfer. For the most part, our students do very well when they transfer. In fact, the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center reports that 60 percent of students who transfer from community college into four-year institutions graduate with a bachelors degree within four years. Another 12 percent remain enrolled after four years while working on a degree. They report, Relatively good graduation rates for community college transfers get even better for students who complete their associate degree before heading to a four-year institution. The research found that 71 percent of those transfer students earned a bachelor degree within four years of transferring, with 80 percent either graduating or remaining enrolled. For more information about Grand Rapids Community College, visit their website at www.grcc.edu President Obama has said, In the coming years, jobs requiring at least an associate degree are projected to grow twice as fast as jobs requiring no college experience. We will not fill those jobs or keep those jobs on our shores without the training offered by community colleges. Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

9 Women in Dentistry a Growing Number

By Cristina VanWieren When I moved to the Grandville area in 1999, I did not cruise the yellow pages for a dentist. The truth is, I didnt want to see any dentist. The poking, the drilling, the x-rays I fidget more in that chair than most small children. When a sense of responsibility took over, I asked my new colleagues for a referral and ended up a (pleasantly surprised and relieved) patient of Dr. Baumgartner. Dr. George Baumgartner started Grandville Dental Health Center in 1974 and ran the thriving practice until he retired in 2005. Prior to retiring, Dr. Baumgartner brought Dr. Larissa Bishop into the practice. In 2009, Dr. Bishop moved the practice from its original location on Prairie SW to a new office building on Wilson Ave near 56th Street. The modern construction of the new office is bright, welcoming and offers easy access for disabled persons. Along with the new location have come many technological updates. The office is now completely digital. Patient records have been electronically maintained since 2006. Referrals and x-rays are done with email saving patients time and effort. A Facebook page is maintained, keeping patients up to date and allowing them to post their comments. When GDHC opened its doors in 1974, only about 3% of dentists were female. According to the U of M School of Dentistry, about 25% of todays licensed dentists are female as well as 50% of all dental students. In fact, GDHC is lead by two talented women. Dr. Bishop has served as president of West Michigan District Dental Society and is a product evaluator for the Dental Advisor. Dr. Biersack, who joined the practice in 2007, completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at St. John Detroit Riverview Hospital. Both doctors are members of the ADA and MDA as well as other professional organizations. GDHC continues to be a thriving practice, seeing approximately 60 patients each day. Quite a few members of the offices team of hygienists and dental assistants all women have been with the practice for many years. They know patients names and families they know their stories. Julie has been my hygienist for many years now. She always takes great care of me and doesnt even seem to mind my fidgeting. When I asked Dr. Bishop about competition and advertising, she said she really doesnt feel pressured. GDHC has a great website, you can find their ad in the Grand Rapids Family Magazine and, of course, in the yellow pages. Mostly though, new patients come through referrals. Dr. Bishop is a people person her favorite part of the job, she says, is getting to know the families. Her caring nature and professionalism, along with that of Dr. Beirsacks and the rest of the team will insure a thriving practice well into and beyond the retirement of these accomplished women. Cristina VanWieren is a high school math teacher and aspiring writer.

Finance/Insurance/Banking Briefs
Grand Rapids Lighthouse Group announced addition of two Benefits employees to the Lighthouse Group team - Jay Schripsema joins as Account Executive in Traverse City, and Krista M. Davis joins as Account Manager in Kentwood. Caledonia Dave Tuit joined Acrisure L.L.C., leading retail insurance brokerage, as Chief Financial Officer with over twenty years of leadership in finance and accounting, mergers and acquisitions, operations management, and strategic planning. Washington U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the Veteran Pledge Initiative, a commitment by its top national, regional and community lenders to collectively increase their lending activity to veterans by five percent per year for the next five years. SBA expects to assist an additional 2,000 veterans obtain loans to start or expand small businesses by increasing lending of $475 million over the next five years. Grand Rapids Lake Michigan Credit Union announced retirement of Vickie Smith, Director of Business Development and Community Events. Smith concludes her 17-year career having overseen LMCUs community outreach programs throughout West Michigan since 2001, and is a familiar face among area schools, businesses, and charitable organizations. Grand Rapids Lake Michigan Credit Union announced hiring: Becky Beld as Branch Manager at its Jenison branch; and Dale Burghgraef as Branch Manager of its new Ada branch. Lake Michigan Credit Union also announced opening of its new full-service branch in Ada - first on the far-east side of the Grand Rapids metro area, located at the corner of Fulton and Ada Drive, right across from Amway headquarters. Grand Rapids Independent Bank announced it received a second place ranking from ABA Banking Journal in its Top-Performing Mid-Size Banks Report. Independent Bank was the only bank from Michigan in the top 25 list that appeared in May 2013 issue. Grand Rapids Grand Valley Co-op Credit Union and Preferred Federal Credit Union of Greenville announced they are merging July 1, 2013. The credit union will be headquartered in Grand Rapids, with six locations reaching from Kalamazoo to Ludington. The combined credit union will be called Preferred Credit Union, and a Board of Directors consisting of current Grand Valley Co-op and Preferred Federal Directors will oversee the organization with no branches or position eliminations expected. The management team will be led by current Grand Valley Co-op President and CEO John Yeomans. Holland Macatawa Bank welcomed Steven Bosscher, Assistant VicePresident Commercial Banker, who will be managing commercial customer relationships, and generating new business. Holland Macatawa Bank welcomed Joel Brandt as Commercial Team Leader to manage a team of commercial bankers, and will be responsible for business and commercial banking activities in the Greater Grand Rapids area including business development, and portfolio management. Grand Rapids Independent Bank ranked #73 in Top Overall Volume in the Scotsman Guide 2012 Top Mortgage Lenders list. Independent Bank closed 4,387 loans in 2012, with total volume of $538,000,000. Scotsman Guide, leading resource for mortgage originators, released its first annual Top Mortgage Lenders rankings June 1, 2013, which ranks the nation's top mortgage-lending companies, and appears in Scotsman Guides June 2013 Residential Edition. Grand Rapids Mandy Hales Chardoul joined Legacy Trust as Director of Family Office Services having primary management responsibilities for Family Office Service platform in estate and income tax planning strategies for current and new family office clients. Muskegon Sharon Rindfusz joined Independent Bank as Residential Loan Officer, serving Muskegon and Ottawa Counties, and will be working out of Independent Banks Muskegon Office, 3251 Henry St. Byron Center Chemical Bank announced appointment of Angelia Groom to Trust Employee Benefits Officer, and will be responsible for managing relationships with retirement plan sponsors in West Michigan, and provide participant investment education. Grand Rapids Lake Michigan Credit Union announced hiring Kim Smith as Vice President of Commercial Lending. Newaygo Independent Bank recognized Sarah Carlson, and Conor Bradley as 2013 Newaygo High School Athletes of the Year, awarding each a $500 academic scholarship. The Athlete of the Year program recognizes excellence in areas of scholarship, citizenship, leadership, and athletic participation.

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10 Construction Briefs
Grand Rapids - Signature Associates has negotiated: the lease of 1,400 square feet of retail space located at 4761 Lake Michigan Drive, Standale, for the landlord, Uccello Real Estate, LLC and the tenant, Black Ram DS, LLC. the lease of 22,500 square feet of industrial space located at 770 Watkins Road, Battle Creek for the landlord, VanDillen Building Group, LLC and the tenant, II Stanley. This is the second expansion for II Stanley since they occupied the building less than a year ago. Now they occupy the entire building for a total of 72,500 sf. the lease of 1,296 square feet of retail space located at 907 S. Howard Street, Kalamazoo for WMU Trustees, and the tenant, Two Fellas. This is the first opening for Two Fellas and they plan to cater their menu towards the college students. Grand Rapids DK Security announced they were awarded to begin a three-year $1.5 million contract to provide unarmed security guard services at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. The contract, which specifies DK provide approximately 800 weekly guard hours including positions at terminal curb and various vehicular gates, enables the firm to hire an additional 20 Kent County area employees. Indianapolis Redmon Heating and Cooling was named 2013 Medal of Excellence Award winner by Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems. Holland G.O. Construction, local joint venture team comprised of GDK Construction and Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., announced they will be overseeing the $5 million Kruizenga Art Museum project located immediately northwest of the De Pree Art Center on Hope College Campus. The project, which broke ground in May, is scheduled for completion in 2015. Grand Rapids Owen Ames-Kimball is celebrating completion of historic McKay Towers newest feature - Ballroom at McKay. The state-of-the-art banquet space held its grand opening event May 17, 2013. Wausau Wausau Window and Wall Systems promoted Bob Daniel, from Senior Estimator for Engineered Sales, to Regional Sales Manager with responsibilities that include guiding the companys architectural sales representative serving the Midwest including Michigan. Chicago U.S. Housing and Urban Development and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced HUD will provide $60 million to local public housing agencies across the country to provide permanent supportive housing to homeless veterans, many of whom are living with chronic disabling conditions. Approximately 230 homeless veterans are living on streets and in shelters in Michigan, and many will soon find a permanent place to call home with Michigan receiving more than $1.14 million to assists its homeless veterans. Grand Rapids Custer Architectural Products announced additions of Architectural Administrator Betsy Ponstine, who will be responsible for order entry and subcontractor/vendor contract coordination, and Field Technician Nick Dubois. Muskegon - Signature Associates has negotiated: the sale of a 3,600 square foot industrial building located at 7215 Grand Haven Road, Spring Lake for the seller, Daniel R. Burt Trust and the buyer, Casemier Lawn Care, LLC. the lease of 208 square feet of office space located at 99 Sinclair Drive, Muskegon for the landlord, County of Muskegon and the tenant, Bodywise Clinical Massage, LLC. the sale of a 2,744 square foot retail building located at 1384 W. Laketon Avenue, Muskegon for the seller Doom Investments, LLC and the buyer, Rider Estlick Holdings, LLC. Kalamazoo Western Michigan University selected TowerPinskster to transform historic East Hall, which gained National Historic Landmark status in 1978, into a new alumni center with development offices, and a facility focusing on community events. Work on the project will begin immediately, led by the firm principal Bjorn Green. The architectural team will tap the historic preservation expertise of Gene Hopkins, from Hopkins Burns Design Studio of Ann Arbor. Ann Arbor Hobbs + Black Associates, Inc., head architecture firm behind City Creek Center in Salt Lake City UT, announced City Creek Center mixed use development was granted 2013 Engineering Excellence Award given by American Council of Engineering Companies. Grand Rapids Baker Lofts is the citys newest residential building with 87 residential units on four floors. Baker Lofts was developed by LC Companies, LLCC, which contracted with Rockford Constructio to transform the five-story, 125,000-square-foot building with a main floor that includes leasing offices, a workout facility for individuals living in the building, and room for up to 15,000 square feet of retail space, while the top four floors feature affordable, qualityconstructed, and energy efficient apartments. Holland Hope College will name a new 64,000-square-foot complex being constructed on its campus in honor of Jack H. Miller for his lifetime of generosity to the college. The Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts will be built along Columbia Ave between 9th and 10th Streets, and will include two performance venues, classrooms, practice rooms, faculty studios, and office space for department of music. Millers major gift to the $35 million project, which includes construction costs and an endowment for maintenance, will enable the college to begin construction in the coming school year. Grand Rapids A new partnership between MIOSHA (Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and West Michigans leading construction professionals, Elzinga & Volkers, kicked off June 27, 2013. The partnership will create better health and safety for construction workers during the Spectrum Health Beltline Integrated Care Center project in northeast Grand Rapids. Kalamazoo CSM Group announced Lindsay Mukans was hired as Project Engineer. Additionally, CSM Group welcomed new Kalamazoo Public Schools Intern Nathan Doyle. Grand Rapids Kent Manufacturing and Wolverine Building Group announced completion of Kent Manufacturings expanded manufacturing space and new offices. General contractor Wolverine Building Group designed and built the $1.2 Million construction project, which provides Kent Manufacturing with muchneeded production and administrative space as part of a $3.2 Million project. After outgrowing their existing location, Kent Manufacturing purchased an existing 40,000 sq. ft. building just a few blocks down the street from their current facility, and contracted with Wolverine to build a 30,000 sq. ft. addition on the existing building with a new 5,000 sq. ft. office, and make renovations and improvements within the existing building. Saugatuck Saugatuck Brewing Company announced a new 40-barrel brewing system and expanded bottling/labeling/packaging equipment expansion project to begin October 2013. In spring 2014, the new system will replace the current 10-bbl system with additional offices, and expanded cooler space. The remodeling will utilize a portion of the existing Singapore Room banquet hall with remaining area planned for the versatility of overflow restaurant seating, as well as accommodation of small to mid-sized private groups. Grand Rapids Orion Construction was awarded the construction contract for the new Hyatt Place at Eastwood Town Center, located near Lake Lansing Road and US 127, in Lansing Township. The six-story, 125-room Hyatt Place is a public/private partnership between development firm Lansing Melbourne Group, and Lansing Township who is leasing the land to Lansing Melbourne Group. Caledonia Sable Homes, after purchasing Scotsmoor Housing Development out of foreclosure, will sign an agreement with Caledonia Community Schools allotting them a permanent easement for service and emergency access to Ralph E. Meyers football stadium, saving the school district nearly $100,000. Grand Rapids Disability Advocates of Kent County (DAKC), developers of ZeroStep, and Alliance for Environmental Sustainability joined forces to take ZeroStep, a certification for home and building accessibility, beyond its current multi-state capacity to influence home construction over the rest of the country.

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11 Pioneer Construction: Building on Success

By Jane Whittington Pioneer Construction has been part of the Grand Rapids community since 1933 when Earl Beckering, an immigrant from the Netherlands, founded Beckering Construction Company. The company grew and flourished over the years, the business passing from father to son along with a consistent commitment to a strong work ethic, personal service, quality craftsmanship and a hands-on management style. Those remain to this day. In 1962, Earl Beckering Jr changed the name of the company to Pioneer Construction to reflect both the innovation the company was known for as well as the expanding range of services they offered. In 1971, Earl Jrs son Tom took over management of the company. Now in the fourth generation of family ownership, Pioneer Construction is led by Tom Beckerings son-in-law, Tim Schowalter, who serves as President and CEO. The great-grandson of the founder, Chris Beckering, is Director of Business Development and also serves as the board chair of ABC Michigan. Pioneer Construction offers construction management, general contracting, design/build, pre-construction planning and commercial interiors. A part of all their work is an interest in sustainability, which has led to LEED certification for many of their projects. (LEED provides third-party verification of green buildings.) Beckering says, There are three primary delivery methods in construction today, and they are widely misunderstood. Design/build is one where the client hires a contractor who provides architecture and construction services or hires an architectural firm under the contractors agreement with the client. Design/build is a very effective method when time is of the utmost importance. Its a very high trust delivery method. He continues, Construction management means that the client hires a construction manager who provides oversight. Much of our work in can be termed construction management as constructor where we are engaged early in the process along with the architect, and we lock into a guaranteed maximum price when documents are finalized. Beckering adds, Then there is the true general contracting which is the conventional design-bid-build method. He says, Different delivery methods are appropriate for different situations and circumstances. Pioneer currently has about 200 fulltime employees. They have been in their current facility since 1959, but the main office center at 550 Kirtland St. SW was built in 1995 and renovated within the past six months. It is strikingly modern and is a good example of the kind of work the company can do. Beckering says, The renovation was fun for us in that we diverged from the conventional office of the mid-90s into a more open, collaborative environment. We love the outcome weve had. Many companies renovate their space to change their culture; we renovated to reflect and enhance our culture. Our employees, clients and business partners have reacted very favorably to the renovation. The recent recession did impact Pioneer. However, Beckering says, We are now seeing an increase in our business. We have a number of exciting projects, and we are cautiously optimistic. Pioneers projects fill the Grand Rapids landscape with distinctive, wellconstructed and unique buildings. Space precludes a listing of all the projects Pioneer has been involved with, but they can be seen on their website at www.pioneerinc.com Recent projects include GVSUs Seidman Center, which is LEED certified; Lacks Plater Facility, an automotive supplier; renovations to the non-profit Acton Institute, in what was the WMEAC building; the renovation of 2 East Fulton into retail and office space; renovations to the First United Methodist Church; the Pew Library at GVSU; and renovations to the main building at GRCC. They also worked on the condominium projects for both Boardwalk and The Fitzgerald. Other projects include Founders Brewery and the Downtown City Market. They are consistently recognized for their high standards and superlative work by numerous awards. These are also listed on their website. Not satisfied with simply doing excellent work, they give back to the community in many ways by participating in Kids Food Bank, WMEAC (West Michigan Environmental Action Council), Art Prize, Elves and More, GRPS related activities and many other organizations and agencies. Beckering is justifiably proud of the company that has been part of his family for so many years. Todays Pioneer Construction reflects the values, ideals and commitment to excellence that has been in place since its beginning. Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

Construction Briefs
Sparta Kent Equipment, sales and rentals of outdoor power equipment products for landscaping, turf maintenance, and construction work, announced its move to 1550 - 10 Mile Road NW in Sparta. Kent Equipment was founded by Richard Kent in 1999, in Casnovia, Mich. Grand Rapids Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. announced hiring Cade Dammen and Jim Drier as Assistant Project Superintendents for their West Michigan team. Both new employees are 2013 graduates of Ferris State Universitys Construction Technology and Management Program, holding Bachelors of Science degrees. As Assistant Project Superintendents, Dammen and Drier will be responsible for on-site leadership for the companys West Michigan construction projects that range in size from $500,000 to $40 million. Lansing Michigan customers of DTE Energy will get a reprieve in their bills as DTE announced it is slashing its renewable energy surcharge from $3 to 43 cents per month. Reacting to the declining price of renewable energy, which is now cheaper than old and new coal plants, DTE altered its surcharge in a recent filing with Michigan Public Service Commission, which will reduce customer bills by $90 million.

Communication & IT
Communications & IT
Grand Rapids Iserv Company, LLC announced it launched a free community Wi-Fi hotspot at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids, and will be made available under the name 1 Free WiFi Iserv. Grand Rapids Bultema Lambert Communication launched an in-house Creative Department, a new venture for the company which previously outsourced creative work to its freelance partners. Also, Creative Director Marc Scaturro was hired to lead the department. Grand Rapids Service Express, Inc., leader in providing on-site data center maintenance, hired Mike Bird, Shipping & Receiving Clerk, to join their Grand Rapids team. Grand Rapids Configura, maker of CET Designer software, prepares to release CET Designer 4.0 in May and, in June, travels to Chicago for the annual NeoCon Worlds Trade Fair, the largest contract furniture show of its kind in North America. CET Designer 4.0 includes such design improvements as abilities to create custom shapes and work surfaces, and renders improvements including the ability to make walls transparent or partially transparent, and more. Holland/Zeeland Murdoch Marketing was presented with West Coast Chambers IMPACT Award, recognizing its positive contribution to the community by upgrading the website for Felt Mansion, with Murdoch donating a large portion of the work. Holland Boileau Communications Management took home a Silver ADDY Award from American Advertising Federation's 2013 National ADDY Award Ceremony in Phoenix. Norton Shores Two West Michigan technology and communications companies Star Tek Communications, specializing in telephone communications, cabling and cloud-base communications system, and Logical Technologies, specializing in computer networking and support merged to form Star Logic Solutions, a new comprehensive technology service firm specializing in telephone communications, computer networking, cabling, WiFi, cloud services, as well as support and repair services. Grand Rapids DVS announced promotion of Charlie McGrath to Creative Director, where he will be responsible for brand strategy and creative direction for all DVS clients. Grand Rapids Heartland Technology Peer Group celebrated those individuals and companies that contributed tremendously to the organizations mission to share best practices among IT solution providers. The Go-Giver Award, was given to Kathy Labozzetta, partner at i3 Business Solutions in Grand Rapids, in appreciation for her efforts in helping fellow peer group members.

12
Grand Rapids Ralph nunzi Annunziata, global creative director and marketing professional with over thirtyfive years of expertise in the United States and international marketing field, announced opening of nunziWorx in Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids 2/90 Sign Systems, received A+D Magazines Metropolis Likes Award at NeoCon 2013. The award recognized 2/90s new online Design Center, an interactive tool that lets designers experiment with hundreds of color, copy, shape and pattern combinations to create one-of-a-kind sign designs.

Education Briefs
Big Rapids Michael Suman, founder and owner of Product and Market Development, LLC, in Caledonia, was recognized with Ferris State University Distinguished Alumnus Award. Grand Rapids Davenport University announced appointment of Dr. Walter JH ONeill as Executive Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services, effective June 17, 2013. Grand Rapids Twenty-four Calvin College students graduated from Calvins new Masters of Speech Pathology and Audiology inaugural program, which enables students to complete both their Bachelors and Masters Degrees in five years. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Community College will expand its successful Pathways to Success program with a $700,000 grant from W.K. Kellogg Foundation allowing additional families who are in need of post-secondary educational and employment services to find gainful employment. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Student Advancement Foundation announced it named Michele Suchovsky as new Executive Director. Grand Rapids Davenport University hired Christy L.A. Nelson, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, as the Universitys Founding Chair of Occupational Therapy Program beginning June 3, 2013. Kalamazoo Southwest Michigan Chapter of Association for Operations Management (APICS) honored Western Michigan University as Educational Partner of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. In addition, Integrated Supply Management student Rian Caldwell was named APICS Student of the Year. Grand Rapids Grand Valley State Universitys Padnos College of Engineering and Computing entered into international-education partnerships with Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland, and University of Cooperative Education, Mosbach, Germany. The partnerships encompass faculty, staff and student exchanges. Grand Rapids Sally Vander Ploeg was appointed Calvin College's Vice President for Administration and Finance. Vander Ploeg, who has served as Director of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for the college since December 2012.

13 Four Companies to Invest $14.5 million, Add 442 jobs

Lansing - The Michigan Economic Development Corporation today announced Michigan Strategic Fund approval of Michigan Business Development Program incentives to four companies planning expansions in the state. The projects are expected to generate nearly $14.5 million in investments and add 442 new jobs in Michigan. "Michigan's comeback story is being documented almost daily with news ofcompanies choosing to invest and grow here," said Gov. Rick Snyder. "These four projects are proof positive that our Reinvention strategy is working and that the business-friendly reforms we have put in place are fostering new economic growth and more and better jobs for our citizens." The projects approved today: Blissfield Manufacturing Company, founded in 1946, specializes in heat transfer technology within the automotive, off-highway vehicle, commercial refrigeration, and industrial equipment markets. It currently has 90 employees in its Michigan location in the Village of Blissfield and 73 employees at its Portland, Indiana facility. Due to an anticipated expansion of its product line for a major customer, a new manufacturing line is proposed at its Blissfield facility. The company will close its Indiana facility, adding 73 new jobs at its Michigan facility and investing $1.5 million for the expansion, over the next three years. As a result , the company is being awarded a $365,000 Michigan Business Development Program incentive in the form of a performance-based grant. The Village of Blissfield is offering a 12 year property tax abatement in support ofthe project. Merhow Industries, based in Indiana, manufactures luxury horse trailers with living quarters. The company has outgrown its current location and is moving to a vacant facility in the Village of White Pigeon. The company plans to invest nearly $1.1 million and create 46 new jobs, resulting in a $200,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen over a competing site in Indiana. The Village of White Pigeon is offering a 12year property tax abatement valued at $42,000. Senderra RX Partners, a specialty pharmacy based in Texas, serves patients with chronic illnesses that have high prescription therapy costs. The company plans to establish an office in Flint Township that will support a new patient services center and house the Senderra R.X accounting team. The company plans to invest $675,000 and create 170 new jobs, resulting in a $500,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen over competing sites in Alabama and Ohio. Flint Township will offer employment assistance for the project. Michigan Economic Development Corporation TRMI, Inc. is a subsidiary ofTRAM, a manufacturer of interior electrical automotive switches. The company plans to utilize a new manufacturing process at its facility in the City of Battle Creek, investing $11.1 million and creating 153 new jobs. As a result ofthe expansion, TRMI has been awarded a Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant of$700,000. Michigan was chosen for this Company investment over competing sites in Indiana and overseas. The City of Battle Creek is offering al2-year property tax abatement valued at $712,000. "These projects are the result of outstanding teamwork between the MEDC and our local economic development partners in these communities to secure these projects against some very stiff competition," said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. The Michigan Business Development Program provides grants, loans and other economic assistance to qualified businesses that make investments or create jobs in Michigan, with preference given to businesses that need additional assistance for deal-closing and for second stage gap financing. The MSF will consider a number of factors in making these awards, including: out-of-state competition, private investment in the project, business diversification opportunities, near-term job creation, wage and benefit levels ofthe new jobs, and net-positive return to the state. Business retention and retail projects are not eligible for consideration of these incentives.

Industrial Briefs
Grand Rapids Cascade Engineering announced its partnership between their Cascade Cart Solutions Company and the City of Grand Rapids, to implement an innovative refuse- and recycling-collection system, resulted in important recognition for the City by RFID Journal, a leading industry trade publication. Houghton GS Engineering was awarded Tibbett Award by Small Business Administration for their work with Advanced Lightweight Vehicle Components and Materials at the White House - an award given to companies who participate in Small Business Innovation Research program. Allegan Perrigo announced: David Shore was hired as SAP (enterprise software) Basis Engineer for the Information Technology & Systems team; Tracy Sienko was hired as QA Supervisor for the Plant 7 Quality Assurance team; Barbara Cahill was hired as Marketing Manager for New Products for their OTC Marketing team; Leslie Schlaud was hired as Production Supervisor for their Packaging team. Spring Lake Hines Corporation announced its acquisition of Oklahomabased Crane Carrier Company, top manufacturer of custom-built, heavy-duty diesel, CNG and hybrid truck chassis. The purchase of Crane adheres closely to Hines Corporation vision of bolstering existing business potential and fostering new growth for each of its companies. Grand Rapids American Seating announced its new Vice-President of Architectural Sales, Jeffrey Wolber, who will oversee all sales for American Seatings education, entertainment, contract, and government contract markets. Before joining American Seating, Wolber held senior leadership sales and business development positions at Exemplis, Herman Miller, and Kimball. Grand Rapids Blackford Capital announced acquisition of Mopec, Inc., a full-service, full-line manufacturer of pathology and mortuary equipment based in Metro Detroit. Mopec was founded in 1992, and currently employs 68 people at its 60,000-square-foot facility in Oak Park, and serves customers with a wide range of products including Mayo Clinic, Duke University Medical Center, and Cleveland Clinic. Caledonia TV Rheinland Industrial Solutions, full-service inspection, testing and certification company, expanded its mobile radiography capabilities, bringing its fleet of inspection trucks to 12. The mobile trucks are versatile, can go out to remote terrains, and offer convenient onsite inspections of welded material and castings including piping systems, tanks, pressure vessels, and steel bridge components. The new units run off inverters, converters, and AC power, without need for generators. Additionally, they are completely insulated and leak-proof, highly chemical- and weather-resistant, and a new system dries the film in less than 20 minutes.

14 Ball State Universitys CBER gives Michigans Manufacturing a 2.34 GPA

By Luke Van Der Male The Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) in Ball State University of Indiana released a report card this June. Though it may be somewhat atypical for a report card, the subjects graded included Manufacturing and Logistics Industries Health, Tax Climate, and Global Reach. CBER, an an economic policy and forecasting research center according to its website, put out the report card on request and sponsorship of Conexus Indiana, a manufacturing initiative, whose most urgent mission is building tomorrows manufacturing and logistics workforce, according to Conexus website. Although Michigan aced the foremost subjects of the research, Manufacturing and Logistics, its overall grade was dragged down by subjects like Sector Diversification and Expected Liability Gap. Nevertheless, CBERs director Professor Michael Hicks remains optimistic: Michigan improved their grades from B+ to A in global position and also from C- to B- in tax climate category... Michigan is clearly a state on the move, rebounding significantly from the Great Recession, and making great strides in its business climate. The full report, 2013 Manufacturing and Logistics Reports, can be found on Ball States website, but Michigans grades are as follows: Manufacturing Industry Health; A , Logistics Industry Health; B- , Human Capital; C- , Worker benefit costs; C , Tax climate; B- , Expected Liability Gap; D, Global Reach ; A , Sector Diversification; D- , Productivity and Innovation; C. Weighted equally, this yields a 2.34 GPA, though this may be an unfair summary. Michigans best grades, in Manufacturing and Global Reach (global position) are determined by CBERs selection and interpretation of data from numerous sources including the AARP, the National Center for Educational Statistics, and conventional academic sources like the U.S Bureau of Economic Analysis and the Census. For a specific example, Manufacturings metrics are the share of total income earned by manufacturing employees, their wage premium relative to other states, and the share of manufacturing employment per capita. These variables are then aggregated and ranked, with the lowest score in each category producing that states rank. This is what makes GPA an unfair summary of a states report card, as the grades are given on a national curve. Michigans worst grades were in Expected Liability Gap and Sector Diversification. To quote the study [t]o measure the expected liability gap, we include data on unfunded liability per capita and percentage of GDP, average benefits, and bond rankings. Sector Diversification also suffered relative to other states, based on the HefindahlHirschman Index. The Index compares the income share of various categories of manufacturing. The more equally distributed the manufacturing income is among the categories, the higher the diversity rating relative to other states, and therefore the higher the grade in Sector Diversification awarded by CBER. What do all these grades mean, in aggregate, as it were? As already mentioned, Director Hicks forecasts growth for Michigan, and goes on to say Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and Ohio continue to form the backbone of Americas manufacturing heartland. Here, Indiana is clearly outperforming the other states, with Michigans resurgence in this years scorecard offering a remarkable story. Ohio has emerged strongly from the Great Recession, but Illinois and Wisconsin still struggle with tax climates that disincentive investment. The most difficult challenge to the Midwest remains the deep, and seemingly intractable problems with Illinois unfunded liabilities, which offer a deep threat to the region as a whole. In fact, Hicks argues that the continued expansion of the nations manufacturing sector continues to be one of the bright spots for the recovery. However, he believes Manufacturings tenacity still hasnt been enough to drag the entire economy into a full blown recovery. Luke Van Der Male is a freelance writer studying economics and English at Grand Valley State University. You can see more of his stuff at skepticfreethought.com under numquam fidelis.

Industrial Briefs
Marne DeWys Manufacturing, Inc invested in the Harvard Portable Filtration System - a filter cart designed to provide the best in fluid filtration, which allows recycling and reusing machine oil, as well as decreases downtime from oil needing to be changed less frequently. Grand Rapids Cascade Engineering (CE) announced promotion of Samia Brown to Chief Strategy and Technology Officer, and will be responsible for corporate strategy development, and assessment of innovative technologies that can lead to creation of new business platforms for CE companies. Brown will report directly to company founder, Chair and CEO Fred Keller. Battle Creek Post Foods announced plans to invest $30,000,000 in its Battle Creek facility, consolidating their manufacturing headquarters with relocation of key leadership roles to Battle Creek, and closing a facility in Modesto CA. The project will create an additional 92 jobs at the Post Cliff Street manufacturing facility. Farmington Hills Beringea, LLC, private equity firm providing growth capital to market-leading businesses, led a recapitalization of White Pigeon-based Fiber By-Products Corp., leading recycler of wood waste generated from a variety of end-product markets, which processes it into consumable products including animal bedding, boiler fuel, wood mulch, and premium wood pellets used to heat homes and businesses. Marne DeWys Manufacturing, Inc. announced addition of Matt Heinz as new Buyer, and will be responsible for purchasing, supplier selection, and other supply chain activities. Grand Haven Biosolutions, LLC, added NSF Nonfood Compounds Registration to its BioSafe Disinfectant, Cleaner, Sanitizer product, and its popular Clean & Green product line. NSF Nonfood Compounds Registration includes all compounds used in and around food establishments (nonfood compounds), such as disinfectants, and verifies that formulations and labels meet appropriate food safety regulations. Grand Rapids Proos Manufacturing announced CEO Amy Proos is a winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2013 Award, which recognizes outstanding high-growth entrepreneurs demonstrating excellence and extraordinary success in areas of innovation, financial performance, and personal commitment. Amy Proos is third generation, and first woman CEO and owner of her familys 94-year old manufacturing company. Grand Rapids The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with Cascade Township, announced West Michigan-based Precision Aerospace Corp. will be expanding and investing in the region. Cascade Township approved local P.A. 198 tax abatement. Precision Aerospace will invest a total of $5 million, creating 40 new jobs at the companys new facility, located at 5300 Corporate Grove Blvd SE, over the next two years. Precision Aerospace will take ownership of the entire 140,000 sq.ft. facility, but will continue to share the campus with current tenants. Grand Rapids Grand Valley State Universitys Padnos College of Engineering and Computing has entered into international-education partnerships with Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland, and University of Cooperative Education, Mosbach, Germany, where engineering and computing students at GVSU now have a new opportunity to study abroad and intern at companies overseas through two new international partnerships. The partnerships encompass faculty, staff and student exchanges.

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15 Optimism Blooms
Continued from page 2 Also a positive sign, 41 percent of business owners reported in the latest MFBI survey that sales have increased over the previous six months, a one-point increase from the October 2012 survey. Sixty-one percent in the real estate, finance and insurance industries say sales have increased and that is a jump of 21 percent since October. Other positive results from the survey include: Six-month business outlook. Sixty-four percent (an increase of 12 percent over October) say their outlook for business over the next six months is good, with 22 percent (and increase of five percent) saying very good. Fifty percent of respondents say they expect sales to increase in the next six months (an eight percent increase over October 2012) and 40 percent now say they expect their profits to increase in the next six months (up eight points from October). Hiring and layoffs. Thirty percent of respondents say they plan to hire more employees in the next six months. This is a six percent increase over October 2012 and a 14point increase since June 2011. The outlook for new hires remains strongest in the Detroit Metro region (34%). New startup businesses (37%) and those with five employees or more are most likely to be hiring. The specific sectors most likely to hire are financial, insurance and real estate (37%) and manufacturing and construction (36%). Increased wages. The outlook for increased wages continues to improve, as 28 percent of respondents say they plan to increase wages for their employees over the next six months up two points from October 2012 and up eight points from June 2011. Employers in West Michigan are still most likely to increase wages for workers, with 32 percent indicating they will do so. Additionally, wages are most likely to climb within the manufacturing and construction (32%) and financial, insurance and real estate sectors (31%). Michigans business leaders continue to take an enthusiastic view of the states business climate, said Chris Holman, CEO of the Michigan Business Network and publisher of the Greater Lansing Business Monthly. Critical changes to the states tax policies are showing results, and Michigan is leading the economic recovery nationally at this time. Its important that we nurture this recovery and limit the uncertainty and potential for a backslide that comes from more federally imposed business burdens. The Michigan Future Business Index, commissioned by Accident Fund and the Michigan Business Network, is conducted semi-annually by Lansing-based Marketing Resource Group, Inc. (MRG). The survey has been conducted since 2006. A total of 1,015 Michigan business owners, operators, officers and managers were interviewed for the October 2012 survey. To view a summary of the most recent Michigan Future Business Index, please visit the Accident Fund Insurance Company of America website at www.accidentfund.com, or the Michigan Business Network website at www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com, or the Marketing Resource Group, Inc. website at www.mrgmi.com.

Current Business Trends: Continuing to Improve

Grand Rapids - The greater Grand Rapids industrial economy is gaining strength, while the national economy is far less robust, according to the results of a monthly survey compiled by Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University. Long said the survey results are based on data collected during the last two weeks of June. The surveys index of business improvement, called new orders, fell insignificantly to +34, down from +35. The production index came in at +31, from last months +35. The employment index backtracked to +25 from +28. The local automotive parts suppliers continue to be optimists, largely because of the booming auto sales, said Long. Sales for June posted a 9 percent gain over a year earlier, and an 8 percent increase for the first half of the year. Also, the recovery of home values in turn fuels a recovery in consumer confidence. Higher consumer confidence results in more consumer spending, which especially helps the auto industry. Long said although the local employment index backtracked modestly, it is obvious that many area firms are still adding staff. He said June normally results in unemployment rates edging up because of the new wave of workers from colleges and high schools. He said, overall, West Michigan continues to post better unemployment rates than the state or nation.

General Business
St. Louis, MO United Van Lines selected its Van Operators of the Month for March 2013, for excellent performance in areas of operational proficiency, cargo claims prevention, customer service and safety. The winners are: Household Goods Regional Fleet (more than 50,000 miles) - Corrigan Moving Systems, Inc., Grand Rapids; and Household Goods Regional Fleet (up to 50,000 miles) - Corrigan Moving Systems, Inc., Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerces Center for Community Leadership program honored several outstanding Grand Rapids leaders at their Annual Fundraiser: 2013 Distinguished Community Trustee - Carol Paine-McGovern, Kent School Services Network; Uncommon Greatness Award Celebration! Cinema; Community Connections - Ben Wickstrom, Erhardt Construction; Diversity - Carlos Sanchez, Ferris State University; Leadership Skills Mursalata Muhammad, Grand Rapids Community College; and Systems Thinking - Mary Buikema, Habitat for Humanity of Kent County. Grand Rapids Johnny Secreto Foods, local artisan food company known for using all-natural Michigan-sourced ingredients, announced they made a commitment to utilize Holland-based Simpatico Coffee in their Expresso Especial rub. The low-acid coffee contributes to the Specialty Spice Blends ability to set you abuzz with its dose of dark grounds, plus all-spice and nutmeg. Allegan Executive Director of Allegan County United Way Mimi Gabriel plans to retire for the second time with June 30, 2013, marking the last day of her six year position. Grand Rapids Artist Creating Together, non-profit organization bringing youth and adults with disabilities together with artist, welcomed Katie Brower as Interim Executive Director, effective June 8, 2013. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Diane Flaherty Cisler to the Chamber team as their new Sponsorship and Advertising Account Manager. Grand Rapids Gildas Club Grand Rapids Board of Directors announced Wendy Wigger, will become the organizations next President.

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17 Education Briefs
Big Rapids Ferris Foundation Board of Directors conferred $27,725 in Exceptional Merit Grant Awards: Michael Berghoef, Professor of Social Work, College of Arts and Sciences; Tara Braun, International Exchange Manager at Office of International Education; Bradley Isler, Associate Professor of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences; David McClendon, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, College of Arts and Sciences; and Arinze Nkemdirim Okere, Assistant Professor of Pharmacy at College of Pharmacy. Allendale Grand Valley State University signed a reverse transfer agreement with Mott Community College in Flint, Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor, and Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac. Farmington Hills Gale and CIVICTechnologies announced a partnership to make business resources available at no cost to local Michigan business owners and entrepreneurs. The Library of Michigan selected Gale to provide business resources, including a range of ebooks, forms and research databases, and CIVICTechnologies to provide business market research data. All Michigan libraries, and all Michigan residents, can access these digital resources via Michigan eLibrary (MeL). Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Community College Board of Trustees approved a plan designed to retire the colleges current boiler plant and tap Veolia Energys nearby district steam system. The plan is outlined in a 15-year contract under which Veolia will provide steam for campus heating, hot water and air conditioning for nine GRCC buildings. Big Rapids Reorganization of two Ferris State University offices - Student Leadership and Activities, and Career Services opened temporarily in Helen Ferris Hall until their permanent location in the new University Center is completed December 2014. Grand Rapids Triumph Music Academy celebrated its two-year anniversary in April, marking expansive growth since its inception. In just two years, the Academy has grown from four teachers to eight, 80 students to over 200, and more than doubled its space. James Hughes, owner, built a new rehearsal studio and has plans to add three to four new people to hopefully start a recording program within the next year. The Academy offers a variety of music and vocal lessons at affordable rates for students of all ages. Grand Rapids Davenport Universitys Donald W. Maine College of Business is launching a new Master of Management Degree program Fall 2013 semester, available at Davenports Peter C. Cook Center in downtown Grand Rapids, the new Lansing Campus, Livonia Campus and online. Also, a new MBAMarketing Concentration will be available in Grand Rapids and online beginning Fall 2013, and a new Morning MBA format will be available at Cook Center, Lansing and Livonia also starting Fall 2013. Big Rapids The Things I Do, an eloquent and moving drawing by Damian Goidich, is the winner of Excellence in Art Purchase Award from Ferris State University. Goidich, who will earn a masters degree in fine arts from Ferris Kendall College of Art and Design in December, is an adjunct instructor in the Illustration program at the Grand Rapids-based school, and created the drawing for his thesis work. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Community College Board of Trustees voted from among nine candidates to elect Debra Bailey as the Boards newest member, replacing Trustee Terri Handlin, who announced in May that due to personal circumstances, she was resigning from the board. Handlin will serve through Aug. 31, 2013, with Bailey serving the remainder of her term, which expires Dec. 31, 2014. Kalamazoo Western Michigan University will offer a payment deferral option to students whose employers will reimburse their cost of tuition, beginning with Summer II session that begins June 27, 2013. Previously, many of those students paid their tuition costs and waited for reimbursement for several months until they had successfully completed the course and could document that fact. Big Rapids Ferris State Universitys Rankin Art Gallery and Big Rapids Artworks are partnering to showcase art and activities that educate and enrich the University and community. The collaboration will allow the gallery to continue to exhibit works, since its location in the Rankin Student Center closed in May, as part of the new University Center project. The gallery is expected to reopen January 2015. Kalamazoo Western Michigan University Chapter of Society for Excellence in Human Resources received a Merit Award from Society for Human Resource Management in Alexandria, Va, which comes after four consecutive years of landing Superior Merit Awards from the society. Grand Rapids Two Cooley Law School graduates and adjunct faculty members will be honored with the Patriot Award by the United States Department of Defense because of their willingness to help student Jennifer Bylsma: Joan RosemaDavid, Cooley's Grand Rapids Campus Deputy Director and Adjunct Professor; and Traci L. Schenkel, Cooley Adjunct Professor and Family Law Attorney. Bylsma, who was being deployed with her Michigan National Guard unit, finished course work early and scheduled final exams while she was waiting for deployment at Fort Dix. Allendale Grand Valley State University is among the first U.S. universities to sign the national Green Chemistry Commitment, an agreement stating all chemistry majors, by the time they graduate, will have proficiency in green chemistry.

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New SBAM Survey Shows Discernable Uptick in Small Businesses Optimism

Lansing - The Small Business Association of Michigans (SBAM) latest June 2013 Small Business Barometer survey of over 1,000 small business owners shows that entrepreneurs are decidedly more upbeat compared to the October 2012 survey. Hiring, sales and profits are all up compared to last fall. And small business owners report more optimism about their prospects six month from now. Small businesses have the election in the rear view mirror, so they feel a bit more confidence about the direction of the states economy moving forward, said Michael Rogers, vice president communications for SBAM. But some headwinds, like the ongoing uncertainty over the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, are still holding back a full blown small business economic recovery. The survey found that: Twenty-five percent of small business owners said they increased their number of employees (compared to 21 percent in October 2012.) Forty-one percent said sales had increased over the past six months (compared to 40 percent in October 2012.) Twenty-nine percent said profits had increased (compared to 25 percent in October 2012.) Looking forward: Thirty percent plan to hire more employees (compared to 24 percent in October 2012.) Fifty percent said they expect sales to increase to the next six months (compared to 42 percent in October 2012.) Forty percent said they expect profits to increase (compared to 32 percent in October 2012.) In another sign of increasing small business optimism, when asked how would you rate Michigan as a market for your goods or services, 46 percent said pretty good and ten percent said excellent. Thats up from the 41 percent/eight percent ratings reported in June, 2012.

8 Sure Fire Ways to Fail

By Paul LeJoy America continues to be the worlds largest economy and boasts the lion share of global billionaires. In fact, there were reportedly 442 billionaires in America in 2012the nationality majority of the record 1,426 people who have earned this laudable distinction around the world. When considering the staggering success only an elite few attain in business, it begs the question what do these billionaires know that the rest of us dont? And, as importantly, how can we avoid failure as we aspire to achieve career success of any measure? To achieve a notable amount of success at anything and certainly a notable measure of wealth, you must become a specialist at what you do. And, you must do what you do better than anyone else. You must become indispensible the go-to person because your results are superior. In working towards this objective it is important employ a specific combination of essential elements that, combined, will make you a force to be reckoned with. With this in mind, here are 8 pitfalls to avoid thatll assist the proverbial 99% in their quest for success: 1) Short-sightedness: Every successful person at some point in their lives had a vision for what could be, and set out in relentless pursuit of their dream. From Thomas Edison to Steve Jobs and countless success stories in between, visionaries are filled with a passion and purpose that drives them every day. Those who are short-sighted and unmindful of future consequences of their efforts, both the good and the bad, are more likely to fail than those who are thoughtful and perceptive in their approach. 2) Inaction: Have a vision or a goal? The first step is to write down along with objectives and action steps related thereto. Now youve taken initiative, which is the critical first step to achieving success. Post it your vision statement in your bedroom, bathroom, office. Share it with others. And, be sure to follow your action steps. By taking these minor steps, you make yourself accountable and become the master of your destiny. Take quantum action and you will surely have a breakthrough. Or, find contentment with the status-quo and, well, remain there. 3) Contentment: You may have the vision. You may write it down. You may have shared it with others, but without passion, that vision will likely wither. Passion for what you seek to accomplish should be almost palpable to the extent that others can see and feel your drive. The key is to match your vision with something you can be truly passionate about. Something that will keep you engaged every moment of every work day to bring you one step closer to the measure of success that you personally desire. Or, approach your job with a lackluster attitude and suffer the inevitable ominous consequences. 4) Instability: Many have vision and passion, but lack the self-discipline required to stay the course. The pain of living a life of discipline is less than the pain of regret for what could have been if. Those who are self-disciplined motivate themself to continue with their action steps and persevere amid adversity, asserting sheer willpower over their more base desires and instincts to give up or turn attentions to something more enjoyable in the moment. This requisite self-control will channel emotions, behavior, and desires toward obtaining the reward of success and, as importantly, to avoid the punishment of failure. 5) Doubt: You have the vision and you take action to write it down. You may even embellish that vision with passion and be quite disciplined in your approach. However, without the will to endure you may not get too far. Life and work can be hard and even cruel. Remember, the race is not for the swift but rather those who persevere. Rather than allowing doubt to seep in and poison the process, you owe it to yourself to remain confident in your vision and your methodologies to get you there. Sure, you can adapt as needed along the way, but always know that success will ultimately be yours. 6) Going it Alone: No one is an island and there's strength in numbers. A mastermind group, coach or mentor is an excellent way to get motivated. Meeting regularly can be a great boost to

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your morale and provide new perspectives on your approach. The Internet makes it extraordinarily easy to find a coach or mentor and join a mastermind group that can help propel your vision to new heights and facilitate invaluable networking opportunities. 7) Dishonesty: While it sounds clich, honesty is indeed the best policy in business. Integrity is of paramount importance for those seeking to find and sustain long-term success. True success comes when you are a person of your word, when you have a pure conscience, and when you have not cheated others on your way to the top. Dishonesty has a tendency to sneak back up on you causing far more problems than the risk was work taking in the first place. 8) Arrogance: Humility, like patience, hard work and integrity, is a virtue. So, when you finally reach your destination of success, when your vision becomes a reality, do not forget your humble beginnings and all those who helped you to get to the top of the hill. Extend an attitude of gratitude and thankfulness. There is no such a thing as a self-made millionaire. People get there because others helped them get there. If you have a vision, passion, take action, are determined and disciplined; if you get a coach or mentor; get in the right environment; and are honest and humble you be well positioned to achieve your dream...whatever that may be. Pacific Realty Partners Founder and Principal Paul LeJoy is a revered real estate investor and top business buildin expert lauded for helping others realize success and create wealth. Paul may be reached online at www.LejoySolutions.com.

Review of Financial Fresh Start

out of a financial hole. In her informative manual for US consumers, financial expert Shari Olefson provides useful advice on how people in financial trouble can find a fresh start. The book might benefit from stiffer proofreading in spots and Olefsons tips can be obvious dont spend, protect your investments, and so on. However, shes only laying a foundation. Once thats established, she does a good job of communicating worthwhile information, including how new financial regulations affect consumers. getAbstract recommends her counsel to those seeking to clear up their financial lives. Shari Olefson. Financial Fresh Start: Your Five-Step Plan for Adapting and Prospering in the New Economy. AMACOM, 2013. 320 pages. ISBN-13: 9780814432297. Provided by www.getabstract.com In the aftermath of the 2008 recession, many Americans had to try to climb getAbstract is the leading provider of business book summaries, with thousands of titles covered. www.getabstract.com

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DONT LOOSEN THAT GRIP Resist the Urge to Relax Financial Controls
By John Tschohl The economy is improving, bringing with it a sense of optimism. That optimism, however, can be dangerous. All too often, it brings with it a tendency to breathe a sigh of relief and loosen your grip on the financial reins. While it might be human nature to relax when things get better, it is not good business practice. The measures you put into place to control costs and reduce waste during the past few years helped you to survive; it would be foolish to discontinue them now. While you certainly deserve to celebrate your survival of the recent economic downturn, if you want to continue that celebration into the future, its imperative that you maintain control of your finances. Competition at every level from price to product to servicecontinues to be stiff, bringing with it the necessity to keep a watchful eye on spending. Customers are not willing to pay higher prices just to keep you in business. Cutting costs and controlling waste, combined with exceptional customer service, are the keys to your continued success. When you offer high-quality products at competitive prices, you can pass those savings on to your customers. When you do so, you will attract new customers and keep current customers. You will increase sales and profits. You will thrive. Sure, there are a few companies in the world that can charge more without any major repercussions. Disney and Apple are two examples. Their products and services are so superior that consumers are willing to pay whatever it takes to purchase them. That is not the case for most businesses, however. In order to remain competitiveand viableits critical that you reduce costs and pass the savings on to your customers. You can do so by taking these steps: 1. Be aggressive. Look for ways to eliminate waste in every department, keeping in mind that no waste is too small to ignore. Those small savings add up to major savings. Let me give you an example: If you have 1,000 employees working an average of 250 days a year, and those employees identify ways to save the company $1 a day, that is an annual savings of $250,000. Taking that a step further, if the company has annual sales of $20 million, at a 5 percent profit margin, this is the equivalent of increasing sales by $5 million. 2. Turn to the expertsyour employees. They know where the waste is and can identify ways to eliminate it. Making your employees your partners in this process does two things: It will result in impressive savings, and it will send a message that you value your employees and their suggestions. And, when employees feel valued, they are more productive and more committed to the companys success. 3. Look at people. Leave no stone unturned. Are there people who can be eliminated? Terminate under-performing employees; they cost the company money and do little or nothing to add to the bottom line. They also can cost you money by driving customers away with bad attitudes, lack of knowledge, and poor customer service skills. In many cases, those employees do not need to be replaced, which adds to the savings. 4. Look at technology. Technology can save you money by speeding up processes and improving customer serv-

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ice. The only technology I suggest you eliminate completely are telephone systems that require callers to go through an endless list of options before they can talk with a real person. Use technology only when it benefits the customer. 5. Eliminate ridiculous policies and procedures. Not only do they get in the way of providing good customer service, they cost you money because you need people to enforce them. When you eliminate those policies and procedures, you can eliminate the people you have hired to enforce them. You cant count on the economy remaining strong. You must do everything in your power to control costs and ensure the success of your company now and into the future. John Tschohl, internationally recognized service strategist, is founder and president of the Service Quality Institute in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Described by USA Today, Time, and Entrepreneur as a customer service guru, he has written several books on customer service and has developed more than 26 customerservice training programs that have been distributed throughout the world. Johns monthly strategic newsletter is available online

Needs of Nonprofit Sector

Grand Rapids - A new study from Grand Valley State Universitys School of Public, Nonprofit and Health Administration, and the Johnson Center for Philanthropy reveals trends in the kind of professional development programming nonprofit organizations in Michigan need. The 2013 Nonprofit Needs Assessment is a profile of the most urgent professional development needs of Michigan nonprofits. While many industries are struggling in Michigan, the nonprofit sector is growing at a rate of 1.3 percent per year, and demand for nonprofit services is rising. That means nonprofit workers must work longer hours and take on additional responsibilities to meet increasing demand. Nonprofit and philanthropic employers are recognizing that in order to reduce employee burnout and turnover as well as maintain positive employee morale, they must provide professional development opportunities for their staff. Previous needs assessments were conducted by the Johnson Center for Philanthropy in 1998 and 2007. The 2013 needs assessment is comprised of the responses from 138 different nonprofit and philanthropic organizations. Key findings included: The majority of respondent organizations offer professional development to their staff and board: 73 percent of the surveyed nonprofits offer professional development training to their staff, and 51 percent offer professional development to their board. The Johnson Center for Philanthropy is the second most frequently used professional development source. The first most frequently used professional development source is the Internet. Program evaluation and databased decision making is a crucial training need for many respondents. However, organizations are not currently taking advantage of this type of training due to cost and time constraints. Organizational type and location determines the most crucial training need, in some cases. Fifty-seven percent of respondent educational organizations and 60 percent of Muskegon County respondent organizations selected board of directors training as their most crucial training need. The report identifies recommendations on future actions, and detailed analysis of the current needs of nonprofit organizations.

Review of Risk Intelligence

light of certainty and into the challenging shadows of uncertainty. He defines risk intelligence, discusses factors shaping your relationship to risk and knowledge, and walks you through the meaning of this information. The result is entertaining but it carries serious implications. If you work through the risk intelligence self-test Evans offers in the book and online to help you determine your risk quotient, you may be humbled. getAbstract recommends Evanss instructive exploration to investors, strategists and anyone interested in being more selfaware or making better decisions. Dylan Evans. Risk Intelligence: How to Live With Uncertainty. Free Press, 2012. 288 pages. ISBN-13: 9781451610901. getAbstract is the leading provider of business book summaries, with thousands of titles covered. www.getabstract.com

Provided by www.getabstract.com Risk intelligence expert Dylan Evans takes readers out of the clear but false