update

1993-2013

Business

January 2013 $2.00

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Inside Featur es

Food Dance Adds Br ead Baking to Reper toir e

Banking Chir opractic Svc Adult Education Ar chitectur e

2 Preventing Work Place Injuries Its More than a Poster on the Wall
Grand Rapids - Work-related injuries in the United States total approximately $51.1 billion in workers compensation costs. According to Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety, the leading cause of disabling injuries is overexertion, resulting in $13.61 billion in direct claims. Overexertion injuries are typically the result of poor positioning or movement choices. These movements cause cumulative damage to soft tissues such as muscles, tendons and ligaments. Mary Free Bed occupational therapist Mark DeKraker has been treating patients with overexertion injuries for 23 years. DeKraker says, with a little education, these injuries can be avoided. Education The key to prevention is education about good body mechanics and how to maintain them on the job. DeKraker explains, When employees receive a basic explanation about the science involved, it leads to a better understanding of the risk for injury and how to minimize it. He stresses that employees are not the only staff members who need to be educated. When management and supervisors are knowledgeable about how to prevent injuries, it encourages accountability. DeKraker continues, Its the job of higher level management to create a culture of wellness and injury prevention. Prevention A successful work injury prevention program does not begin and end with putting posters on the wall. While prevention relies on employees using proper positioning and body mechanics, how employees apply proper technique may be slightly different given the task at hand, the space available, and their health. DeKraker admits it can be an uphill battle at first. The biggest challenge in prevention is asking people to change what they have been doing for years. DeKraker harkens back to education. If there is an understanding of the underlying reasons behind the technique, follow through on the work floor is more likely. It can happen anywhere Preventable work related injuries occur in all work settings. For example, the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome is increased if an employees work space is not set up properly. Making small changes to a chair, computer monitor, arm rests and keyboard location all help prevent an injury that can cost the company thousands, says DeKraker. Return to Work Programs According to the University of Wisconsin System, a timely return to work program is the best tool to control workers compensation costs, reduce losses and help employees following an accident. Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospitals holistic Return to Work Program includes multiple components to help employees become productive again and keep future injuries at bay: Work site analysis Task specific training / job simulation-based training Flexibility, strength and coordination restoration Physical ability assessment Educational instruction in posture and body mechanics Work transition program Injury prevention education Mary Free Beds Return to Work Program helps more than 200 patients each year. For more information, visit www.maryfreebed.com/ReturnToWork or call 616-233-3499.

Sunset Announces Partnership with Emmanuel

Jenison - Emmanuel Hospice Board President James Brady has announced that Sunset Retirement Communities & Services - a local, Christian, non-profit provider of residences and services for senior adults in Jenison and surrounding communities - will join Emmanuel Hospice. The faith-based Emmanuel Hospice was created in February of 2012 in an historic collaboration among St. Ann's, Porter Hills Retirement Communities & Services, and Clark Retirement Community. Sunset has historically had a very close affiliation with the Reformed and Christian Reformed Churches, while the three original Emmanuel Hospice collaborators are affiliated with the Catholic faith (St. Ann's), the Presbyterian faith (Porter Hills) and the United Methodist faith (Clark). Emmanuel Hospice is an ecumenical provider serving people of all faiths. Judy Baker, who serves on Sunset's Board of Directors and is also on the nursing faculty at Calvin College, will be joining Emmanuel Hospice's Governance Board of Directors. Emmanuel Hospice is a separate, private, 501(C)(3), non-profit hospice organization jointly owned by the four organizations with St. Ann's being the majority owner. Emmanuel Hospice has established a Governance Board of Directors with representatives from each of the four owners plus individuals selected from the greater Grand Rapids community. Emmanuel Hospice will provide holistic, end-of-life care by an inter-disciplinary team and will include: Medical Services Coordination of care with primary care physicians Personal care services Pain management Spiritual care Bereavement Social services Volunteer services Ancillary services Emmanuel Hospice will be a community-based service provider, caring for people wherever they are at the end of life. The "spirit and intent of hospice is to care for people where they are physically - and that usually means in their own home - as well as emotionally and spiritually," said Brady. The four joint venture partners anticipate Emmanuel Hospice being able to serve a limited number of people beginning in spring or summer of 2013 and until full licensure and certification is obtained. More information will be provided when Emmanuel obtains full licensure.

Spectrum Health Invests in Community

Grand Rapids- Spectrum Health- In Effort Underway to Spotlight Importance of Social Responsibility: With commitment going beyond the walls and medical facilities, Spectrum Health, One of the largest health systems in Michigan and the country has one mission: To improve the health of the community (Richard C. Breon- President and CEO of Spectrum Health). As shown in Spectrum Healths Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), efforts have been mapped out in the new report Creating Greater Possibilities for West MichiganSpectrum Health Corporate Social Responsibility. The report includes details on dozens of programs and efforts supported by Spectrum Health such as Grand Rapids Public Schools School of Health and Sciences, annual sponsorships from over 150 communitybased non-profit organizations(totaling nearly 1 million dollars), and a 204 million dollar community benefit to West Michigan. CSR at Spectrum Health touches nine key areas, Healthier Communities, Education, Community Engagement, Research, Innovation, Employee Engagement, Sustainability, Regional Relationships, and Community Benefit. View full report at spectrumhealth.org/CSR.

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Food Dance Adds Bread Baking to Repertoire

Kalamazoo Food Dance West Michigans premier farm-to-table eatery has added bread breaking to its impressive list of hand-made offerings, with the recent purchase of a German MIWE oven. I have always wanted Food Dance to produce as much of the food on each plate as possible, says executive chef Robb Hammond who has been with the restaurant for years. Once we moved into our amazing new facility in 2007, we realized that the opportunity to create foods that could only be found here was immense. Whether its ketchup or bacon, sausage or bread, we pride ourselves on giving an experience unique to Food Dance. Chef Robb admits that changing a product from one used successfully for many years, comes with some trepidation. For years, Food Dance has sourced its various breads from the internationally-recognized Zingermans Bakery in Ann Arbor. For over a year, our pastry chef, Amber Burns, has been bringing us delicious bread shes been baking at home. I knew with the right oven and her talent, we could bake great bread, says Chef Robb. I feel confident in our abilitly to take on this large undertaking and add to the overall experience for our guests here at Food Dance. According to Chef Robb, the process of baking bread is dependent on so many variables you cant control. The weather on the day of baking or the day the flour was milled can have as much to do with the final product as the temperature of the oven or the correct kneading. It is a very intuitive craft that can only be learned through years of work, in various conditions. Why did we want to make our own bread? Because we are so passionately committed to making traditional artisan foods right here at Food Dance, says owner Julie Stanley. Besides, our bakers just LOVE to bake! With so much passion to be found under our own roof, we decided to push forward and try our hand at making bread. We are excited to share these new breads with you, and we plan to keep introducing new flavors as time goes on! This new MIWE oven will allow Food Dance to produce a variety of breads for its menu and marketplace, including sourdough, potato rosemary, ciabatta, whole wheat, focaccia, brioche and rye (on weekends). Food Dances bakers will put hours into their breads 18-24 hours for rising alone to allow for the great flavors to develop. Other ingredients include naturally-fermented sourdough starters, yeast, unbleached spring patent flour, whole wheat berries, whole oats, local potatoes, free range eggs, fresh Wisconsin Grassland unsalted butter, Michigan honey, toasted caraway seeds, fresh rosemary, sea salt, and extra virgin olive oil, resulting in a truly tasty loaf of bread. As one of the original West Michigan farm-to-fork restaurants dedicated to

using locally-produced food, the culinary team at Food Dance works to provide a positive environmental impact and educates its staff and guests on the importance that this mindset has to the culture and community in which we live. Food Dance also supports the belief that we are all mutually-accountable to obtain excellence, by providing opportunities that create community engagement through great food and great service.

Current Business Trends: Returns to Almost Flat

Grand Rapids - The greater Grand Rapids industrial economy has returned to almost flat, 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. The survey results are based on data collected during the last two weeks of December. The surveys index of business improvement, called new orders, came in at +4, considerably lower than the +17 reported last month. The production index backtracked a little as well, remaining positive but coming down to +11 from +21. Activity in purchasing offices picked up slightly to +11 from +8. In a similar move, the employment index rose to +14 from +13. Weve returned to an unimpressive growth pattern, said Long. Despite the optimism of our November report, December and 2012 ended rather flat. Long said December was a little slower month than expected for the office furniture business. The specialty furniture firms did not have a good month at all, he said. The auto parts suppliers remain positive, but with a couple exceptions, continue to show signs of topping out. The capital equipment firms were widely mixed, probably because of the volatile nature of yearend activity. For industrial distributors, once again the performance came in mixed, although the bias was still to the upside. Long said he doesnt predict a recession but said 2013 will be a year of leveling out with some months recording negative numbers.

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Business Development Senior Vice President: Diane LaPreze Senior Vice President: Jim Lroy Circulation: Aubrey Day Contributing Writers: Eric Mills, Jane

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Online Opportunity Helps Business

Grand Rapids - The Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center, located at Grand Valley State University, is offering an online program to help business owners across the state build and update business plans. The new Venture Plan Online course is designed to help business owners in an online setting, while still receiving individual assistance from an industry consultant. The eight-week program includes an hour-long webinar led weekly by business and industry experts, video and textbook resources, program specific business planning software, and a MI-SBTDC consultant to work directly with owners to develop a business plan. Business plans are crucial, but not all business owners are able to find the time to focus on this process, said Cathleen Kaiser, statewide training manager. The MI-SBTDC has tailored the Venture Plan Online course to allow owners the flexibility to develop their business plans without dramatically changing their workday schedule. Upon finishing the course, participants will have a completed business plan, continued access to a MI-SBTDC business consultants and resources to grow their businesses. The first Venture Plan Online opportunity is being offered February 5 at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Cost for the course has been discounted by a grant from the MSU Broadband Technology Opportunity Program and is $90. To register call (616) 331-7480 or email growth@gvsu.edu.

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5 You Can Afford College. GRCC Will Show You How.

Grand Rapids - You know you want to go to college, but dont want to be saddled with skyrocketing student debt. Its smart to be concerned about your financial future. According to a September 2012 Time Magazine article The Student Debt Epidemic: 1 in 5 Households Now Owe Student Loans, 19% of households had outstanding student debt in 2010, by far the highest level ever, and its hitting younger Americans harder than any other age group. According to that article, The debt burden is not only affecting a greater number of Americans, but those who are in debt owe more than ever before. The average outstanding balance rose from $23,349 in 2007 to $26,682 in 2010. Furthermore, 10% of debtor households owed more than $54,238 in 2007, while the same proportion owed more than $61,894 in 2010. Tina Hoxie, Associate Provost and Dean of Student Affairs, at Grand Rapids Community College believes there is a focus today on financing college without going into debt through student loans and borrowing. Students can take advantage of affordable tuition and save on college expenses by attending GRCC, said Hoxie. Federal grants, state aid, student loans and scholarships are your first funding options says Paul Doane, Associate Director of Financial Aid at GRCC. Opportunities at GRCC include student employee work-study grants, achievement awards, and scholarships from the GRCC Foundation - and you dont have to pay any of them back. Your first step: Filling out the FAFSA the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This form allows you to be considered for a federal Pell Grant, direct loans, scholarships, and work-study positions. It can be a lengthy process, so if you hit a road block or need some advice or just need a computer to work on - stop in at the GRCC Financial Aid Office, Doane advises. You can also get help with financial aid questions, and a spectrum of other student services, at the GRCC Leslie E. Tassell M-TEC Career Advancement Center and GRCC Lakeshore Campus Student Service Center. Hours are extended during peak times, so check (contact info listed belowlisted hereto the right) to see when each is open. Staff in all our service areas want to help you get this right reach out and take advantage of their expertise, says Doane. GRCC students, also have access to a free online guide the SALT financial literacy program -- to help you make student loan and financial decisions. SALT educates students and alumni on topics ranging from financing higher education, to managing student loans, to the many financial decisions that students face after they leave school. You have many options to set yourself up for a bright financial future, and GRCC will help you manage them, says Doane.

Apply for Financial Aid

1. Get a PIN (Personal Identification Number) at www.pin.ed.gov. A PIN is your electronic signature for the Department of Education and is required to complete your online FAFSA. Parents are required to have their own PIN if the student is a dependent. 2. Fill out the FAFSA at www.fafsa.gov by following the step-bystep instructions along the way. Be sure to list GRCCs Colleges code 002267. Parents will need their current tax information for a dependent student. An independent student must have his or her tax information. Financial aid cannot be awarded without a completed FAFSA on file. 3. The GRCC Financial Aid Office will provide online instructions to complete your financial aid processing once your file is electronically transferred to their system from FAFSA. Complete, financial aid processing as soon as possible. 4. Apply for scholarships from the GRCC Foundation (by March 15, 2013) and elsewhere. Search the web for legitimate scholarship research sites such as www.michigan.gov/mistudentaid and www.fastweb.com Flex your network. Research scholarships available through you or your parents employer, school networks, community organizations, and religious organizations.

6 Rising Expectations A New Way of Doing Business

By Eric Mills Statistical measures indicate the economy is on upward swing in most categories. Auto sales and hiring are on the upswing. Even the housing sector is making a strong showing with increased sales having led to a slight increase in home prices. Auto sales in November, a month when showroom visits are typically described as lackluster, indicated a rise in consumer confidence. Car sales in November were at an annual rate of 15.3 million cars, the highest rate since March 2008. There has been a resurgence in manufacturing in the Midwest. Were seeing small manufacturers, tool and die companies, for example, looking to expand their capacity in the event they bring in new business. Some businesses are taking a cautionary approach by requesting a loan preapproval, but holding off on borrowing until they really need it. Others are upgrading existing equipment, instead of purchasing new machinery. Both trends are good business practices even in the best of times. Whats happening is that companies are watching the bottom line. Everybody is trying to manage their expense-toincome ratio, and good companies are being smart about it. They know that if they place too much emphasis on cutting costs, theyll miss opportunities to expand and pick up new customers. One bottleneck that companies face is hiring. Workers skilled at operating a stamping press or metal lathe, for instance, have either aged out of the workforce or started new careers during the recent downturn. I think our community colleges and vocational schools are up for the challenge but it could take some time before supply of skilled workers catches up with demand. There is one fundamental change in business activity that I think is worth watching. From my observations, I believe businesses and consumer clients now have higher expectations for those companies with which they do business. In banking, the trend means a banker needs to make a concerted effort to match a clients needs with the services available. Lets say an entrepreneur has been in operation a few months and hasnt accumulated all the account tools they might need. If youre a banker, youll need to be quick in offering the new business owner a service that provides monthly breakdowns of all their expenditures. Huntingtons small business practice has taken this lesson to heart. Thats why our customer service efforts earned us the highest customer service ranking by small business owners, according to J.D. Power and Associates. We recognize that customer loyalty has to be earned on a daily basis. This lesson holds true for most every business. If youre an accountant or a parts supplier, clients and customers now have the mind-set that they want the best. Part of the reason for this trend is the impact of improved comparisonshopping on the Internet. Businesses no longer operate in a closed community. A consumer today can easily buy from a business thats just down the street, or one thats halfway around the world. Another contributing factor is that people are more frugal. After a rough couple of years, people are paying close attention to what they spend, and what they spend it on. They dont want to plunk down a credit card to make a purchase if they dont like the person theyre doing business with, or the product is less than ideal. Heres just one example: I needed to buy suits, so I called a mens clothier and the person who answered the phone said they dont open until 10 a.m., but if I needed to be in the office by then, I could come by the store at 8 a.m. I was so impressed with the quality of service that I continue to do business with that store today. The answer is to be more proactive. It means you have to know what a client or customer wants before they know it, and then offer a product or service that they can use. If you expect the customer to come to you, they just might take their business someplace else. We have a great tradition in American business: we learn from our challenges. And it appears that are most recent economic challenges have taught us to not settle for anything less than the best. Its a trend more businesses are embracing. Eric Mills is the Market Manager of business banking for the Northwest Michigan market at Huntington Bank.

Banking/Insurance/Briefs
Grand Rapids Independent Bank announced it appointed 8 associates to serve as Vice Presidents of community banking, and promoted 12 associates to serve as Banking Office Managers within its west region. The following associates will serve as Vice Presidents of community banking: Garrett Bensinger Olivet, Charlotte, Bellevue, Eaton Rapids, Potterville and Vermontville offices; Sue Fulk - Leslie, Pleasant Lake and Mason offices; Dan Kreft - Okemos, East Lansing, Williamston and Portland offices; Colleen Michels - Muskegon, Grand Rapids/Alpine, Standale and Sparta offices; Kelli Rose - Grand Rapids offices of Plainfield, East Beltline, Monroe Center and Cascade; Jim Badgero - Newaygo, Croton, White Cloud, and Big Rapids offices; Amber Behrendt - Rockford, Howard City, Sand Lake, and Cedar Springs offices; and Jennifer Meyers - Ionia Main, South Ionia, Ionia Point, Belding, Saranac and Carson City offices. The following associates have been promoted to serve as Banking Office Managers: Karen Saltzman - Olivet office; Pam Beegle Leslie office; Kelly Strauss - Okemos office; Erika Hoppes - Williamston office; Debra Urban Grand Rapids/Plainfield office; Diane Joppie Grand Rapids/East Beltline office; Sara Archer Downtown Grand Rapids/Monroe Center office; Melody Polasek - Comstock Park/Alpine office; Rhonda Buter Newaygo office; Elizabeth Rose - Rockford office; Brian Campbell - Howard City office; and Kelly Adame - Belding office.

7 Life-long Learning for Personal Development

By: Jane Whittington Even if youre not interested in pursuing a degree, facilitating professional development or preparing for a new career, there are a variety of classes just for fun! These non-credit courses appeal to all ages and interests and can introduce you to something new that youve always wanted to do or help you develop an interest you already have. Youll be with people who share your interests and youll be taught by experts. Its never too late to learn something new. Grand Rapids Community College offers over 300 interactive, non-credit, online classes in accounting and finance; college readiness; computer applications; design and composition; health care and medical; language and arts; personal development; teaching and education; technology; writing and publishing; and law. These classes are offered through a partnership with Cengage Learnings Ed2Go. For more information: www.ed2go.com/grcc. Kendall College of Art and Design has a full range of art classes and programs for adults, teens and children. They include drawing, painting, photography, computer art, interior design, fibers, sculpture, clay, fashion illustration, jewelry and more. For more information: www.kcad.edu/youthand-adults Urban Institute of Contemporary Art (UICA) has something for everyone. Youth and family classes, childrens programs and courses designed for adults. You can keep up with trends in modern art, work with clay, learn basic artistic techniques and pursue many more interests in UICAs new facility downtown. For more information: www.uica.org Grand Rapids Public Schools offers classes in high school completion, preparation for the GED test and English as a Second Language (ESL). For more information: www.grps.org/adult-education Calvin College celebrates a Festival of Faith and Writing and a Festival of Faith and Music on alternate years. Workshops, guest speakers, networking opportunities and more fill a busy weekend. The next Festival of Faith and Writing will be in April of 2014, and the Festival of Faith and Music is scheduled for April of 2013. The Festival of Faith and Writing has offered such internationally known speakers as Maya Angelou, Salman Rushdie and Anne Lamotte. For more information: www.festival.cadvin.edu or www.calvin.edu.admin/sao/festival. Osher Adult Learning Institute (OLLI) at Aquinas has a full range of classes for adults over 50. They include courses in literature, history, religion, current events and politics, travel and other topics as well as trips and backstage tours and performances. The cost is minimal, and courses are taught by experts. For more information: www.aquinas.edu/olli/ Meijer Gardens has programs in decorating, photography and, naturally, gardening. They also offer numerous classes for children. For more information: www.meijergardens.org The Dominican Center at Marywood offers classes in religion and spirituality, health and exercise as well as opportunities to participate in community groups and retreats. For more information: www.dominicancenter.com Interested in learning new recipes, experimenting with new ingredients and livening up the family dinner? There are a number of places where you can do just that. Spartan Culinary Classroom has courses in all kinds of cooking techniques and cuisines and provides a wideranging variety of recipes. For more information: www.familyfare.spartanstores.com/culinary-classroom Bekins Cooking School will help you become the chef you always wanted to beor at least make your family very, very happy at mealtime. They are located in Grand Haven but offer some classes in Grand Rapids and plan to open a branch here early in 2013. For more information: www.bekinscookingschool.com Treehuggers is for those interested in vegetarian or vegan cooking and using local, natural products. Continued on page 8

GRCC Career Advancement Program

Grand Rapids - Grand Rapids Community College, Pathways to Prosperity and Career Advancement Programs, as part of a nation initiative, GRCC is planning on competing for a $650,000 Pathways to Credentials Grant. With the help of 5 other Michigan colleges and the combination of the Breaking Through, Jobs for the Future, and Michigan Center for Student Success programs; GRCC was commended for scaling up workforce development programs and creating more pathways for adults with reading and math abilities at or below the 8th grade level. Career Advancement Program (CAP), 2005, for displaced workers, started it all. As of last year, Breaking Through, brought the biggest success of CAP and Pathways. CAP started it- Pathways program took it further, Julie Parks, Director of Workforce Training. Their plan is to combine both to create the best model. GRCC hopes to expand their efforts with the help of Kresge Foundation Grant administered by Michigan Community College Association. While continuing to offer opportunities for over 30,000 students annually throughout Kent and Ottawa County.

8 Oh, My Achin Back! Chiropractic Tames the Pain

By: Jane Whittington When the aching back, stiff shoulders or pain in the neck get bad, many turn to chiropractic health care for relief. The professionals who provide chiropractic care focus on disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the pain these disorders cause, including back pain, neck pain, joint pain and headaches. Chiropractors offer a drug-free, hands-on approach to health care. With their diagnostic skills, they are trained to recommend therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises and provide advice on nutrition and lifestyle practices. The practice of chiropractic began in the 1890s, based on theories and therapies developed by D.D. Palmer. It is currently the third largest health profession behind medicine and dentistry. The Department of Labor reports that there are approximately 60,000 chiropractic practitioners in the US. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for chiropractors from 2010 to 2020 is that the number of jobs available will increase by 28 percent, which is a faster than average occupational outlook. Chiropractors generally receive seven to eight years of education beyond high school at one of 17 institutions which teach the profession in the US. For the most part, chiropractic focuses on spinal manipulation, also called chiropractic adjustment. This works to restore joint mobility by applying a controlled force into joints that have become restricted in their movement. This manipulation restores mobility and relieves pain and muscle tightness. This type of treatment has proven especially helpful in the relief of low back pain. While there has been some reluctance on the part of the medical profession to accept chiropractic, the American Medical Associations most recent statement, in 1997, has been adopted as policy by that body. The AMA says, Manipulation has been shown to have a reasonably good degree of efficacy in ameliorating back pain, headache and similar musculoskeletal complaints. According to the American Chiropractic Association, Chiropractic care is included in most health insurance plans, including major medical plans, workers compensation, Medicare, some Medicaid plans, and Blue Cross Blue Shield plans for federal employees, among others. Chiropractic care is also available to active-duty members of the armed forces at more than 60 military bases and is available to veterans at 36 major veterans medical facilities. For 14 years, Peak Performance Chiropractic has been in the business of proactively preventing pain, the promotion of wellness and fixing whats not working so their patients attain the highest possible level of health and wellbeing. Currently, they have a staff of 19. Dr. Michael Kwast, one of the four chiropractors on staff, is a graduate of Michigan State University and Palmer College of Chiropractic West. He is currently the only chiropractor in West Michigan who is a certified strength and conditioning specialist. Dr. Kwast says, The services we provide depend on what patients want. Some are interested in a quick, temporary, feel-good fast treatment. Others are trying to correct long-term problems. Thats part of what we do. But we are also working to achieve and maintain the best possible over-all health for our patients. The main thing we do thats different is that we look not just at the problem that brought the patient in but at the whole system. If patients choose, we take them through a battery of physical tests to measure just what their physical abilities are. That gives us a baseline, and we are then able to retest them down the road and see what kind of improvements were seeing in flexibility and range of motion. Based on those initial tests, we can determine what course of treatment we recommend. He continues, Most people dont understand prevention. They come to us when theyve had a crisis. Ill ask what created the problem, and they say something like, I bent down to tie my shoes. But they really had the problem long before it manifested itself in pain. They were unaware because there werent a lot of symptoms. Dr. Kwast and Peak Performance believe in fixing whats wrong before the pain is too great to ignore. He says, What if you only went to the dentist when you were in agony? How would that work out? He continues, Were able to start chiropractic care before the patient ever experiences pain. According to Dr. Kwast, people are often unaware of just what chiropractic can do. Many of his patients are able to reduce or even eliminate the use of pain medication for chronic issues. Just as with all professions, chiropractic has changed over time with advances in technology. At Peak Performance, the doctors make use of a computer which can measure tension in muscles, causing subsequent pain in the joints, and can administer exactly the right degree of pressure to alleviate the tension. The computer continues to monitor the muscle tension until it senses that the tension has dissipated. Many practices such as Peak Performance have added additional therapies which have proven helpful such as massage therapy, nutritional counseling and lifestyle analysis. While most insurance currently covers at least part of the cost of chiropractic, its unclear how the Affordable Care Act will impact that. At Peak Performance, the staff works with patients to understand their insurance coverage, file claims and, if necessary, work out budget plans that will allow them to continue care. The practice presents occasional seminars and informational sessions that can answer potential clients questions about what chiropractic can do. In addition, Peak Performance maintains a website with a wide range of information and education, including videos explaining particular therapies. There are also testimonials on the site which attest to the difference chiropractic treatment has made in peoples lives. Dr. Kwast says, Our goal is to help our patients reach their highest level of health and then maintain that level. Ideally, we can have a long-term partnership that will allow them to live their best lives. And isnt that what everyone wants? Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

Pharmacists as Second Most Trusted Professionals

Lansing Results released earlier this week from the annual Gallup Honesty and Ethics survey across 22 professions show that pharmacists continue to rank high on the scale of perceived honesty and ethical standards, falling just below nurses, and right above physicians. Since 1983, more than 60 percent of respondents have ranked pharmacists as very high or high in honesty and ethical standards, with the 2012 poll marking the highest-ever percentage of 75 percent. Until nursing was added to the list of professions, pharmacists ranked at the top of the list. In the last 10 years, pharmacists have ranked in the top three. Those professions with the lowest rating of perceived honesty and ethical standards included car salespeople, members of Congress and advertising practitioners. The Gallup poll, conducted every year, surveyed 1,015 adults between Nov. 26 and Nov. 29, 2012. Michigan Pharmacists Association, representing the nearly 14,000 pharmacists and 15,000 pharmacy technicians in Michigan, strives to be a leader in professional and scientific advancement by following its mission of encouraging and supporting its members as the professionals responsible for the delivery of patient-focused care.

Life-long Learning
Continued from page 7 They offer classes every Monday. For more information: www.treehuggerstore.com Amore Trattoria Italiana will teach you how to make delicious and delightful Italian dishes. For more information: www.amoretrattoriaitaliana.com These are only a few of the vast array of educational options available in the area. Local colleges and universities are another source. Many churches, synagogues and temples offer classes, and community Parks and Recreation Departments are a great source for finding just the right class(es) for you and your family. Enjoy! Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

9 U.S. Employers Act with Optimism

Grand Rapids The Employers Association, a not-for-profit association of member companies, announced the completion of the 2013 Business Trends Survey Report. This annual report supplies business executives with insight on trends in the areas of: business outlook, business investment plans, staffing levels, hiring plans, job creation barriers, pay strategies, and cost cutting measures. This comprehensive survey of 289 state-wide organizations, empowers executives to make data-driven decisions for their business. Business Trends Revealed An impressive 91% of executives across the state felt that 2012 was about the same or better than 2011. Whereas only 78% of executives expect 2013 business to be slightly or significantly better than 2012. This decreasing optimism likely reflects the turbulent economic and political environment of the fourth quarter of 2012. Employers struggled with business planning given a sea of unknowns ranging from the presidential and state elections, health care reform to the ominous Fiscal Cliff. Despite their more guarded response to the economic outlook, employers remain self-confident. We see an interesting contradiction in the survey responses. While employers indicate a less jubilant perspective for the 2013 economy, their actions speak louder than words. While only 31% anticipate the overall 2013 economy will be better than 2012; 63% of business executives expect increases in their own sales/revenue, says Maggie McPhee of The Employers Association of Grand Rapids. This self-confidence is demonstrated in their optimistic business plans for 2013. Optimistic Actions Employer confidence has improved over one year ago with 78% of participating organizations actually giving a pay increase in 2012. This is up slightly from the 72% of participating organizations that planned an increase in 2012. 2013 compensation strategies demonstrate employer confidence as well. Seventy two percent (72%) of the respondents reported plans to award wage/salary increases in 2013, 42% are planning to award variable/bonus awards, and 13% will give lump sum awards during the year. Another mark of employer confidence is an increase in staff. 41% of the respondents plan to hire additional staff, with most of those expected during the first half of 2013. Another 44% plan to at least maintain current staffing levels. These results are similar to the last several years. One of the negative business trends here in West Michigan seems to be that the majority of respondents (46%) are not planning any investments this year in people, facilities or equipment. Yet 37% are planning new investments in the home location (vs. other domestic or international locations) in the area of people, facilities and/or equipment. Economy Still Cause for Concern Executives are still concerned about the economy. When executives were asked what they believe is the greatest barrier to business growth in their industry, 38% said economic considerations. This is followed by 24% of the executives who indicated that the biggest barrier is consumer demand. Questions about recruitment and retention concerns were included, with the highest area of concern being for professional (non-managerial) staff (48%) and for skilled production workers (34%). These two segments have been a continued watch area for at least the past couple of years and will continue to be the focus of much training in the near future. Speaking of training, the majority of respondents (55%) sited training as the number one strategy to overcome recruitment/retention issues in the coming year.

Legal/Accounting/Consulting Briefs
Grand Rapids Stephen Hilger was selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2013, in the field of Construction Law, for the sixth consecutive year. Grand Rapids Rhoades McKee announced: Jacob S. Dunlop joined the firms Corporate and Business Practice Group; Stephanie D. Myott joined the firms Family Law, Estate Planning, Probate Litigation, and Business and Corporate Groups; and Kevan W. Ventura joined the firms Real Estate, Business and Corporate Practice Groups. Kalamazoo Ellen L. Nendorf joined Kreis, Enderle, Hudgins & Borsos, PC, as Associate in the Battle Creek office, with her practice primarily focused on insurance law, litigation, and family law. Grand Rapids Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge announced Shannon M. Cunningham now serves as Director of Marketing and Business Development being responsible for new business development, firm branding initiatives, fostering strategic relationships, public relations, and external communications. Grand Rapids Charlie Goode, partner with law firm Warner Norcross & Judd LLP, was elected to serve on Board of The First Tee of West Michigan, a nonprofit organization with a mission to impact lives of young people. Grand Rapids Aileen Leipprandt was selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2013, in the field of Construction Law. Grand Rapids Varnum & Riddering announced its ranking as 2013 Top Law Firm in the United States by MartindaleHubbell. Only ten percent of law firms were selected nationally for inclusion. Grand Rapids Mandy Chardoul, Estate Planning Specialist with Plante Moran, PLLC, was asked to join professional advisory committee of Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Grand Rapids Price Heneveld LLP welcomed veteran IP Litigation Attorney Thomas A. Hallin, having more than 33 years of law experience and chaired numerous trademark/trade secret litigation matters. Grand Rapids Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge announced Attorney Matthew J. Baciak joined the firm as a health care, business, and corporate law attorney. Grand Rapids Warner Norcross & Judd, LLP, announced Michigan Super Lawyers Magazine featured Mary Jo Larson, employee benefits law attorney, as one of Top 50 Women Michigan Super Lawyers, and Douglas E. Dozeman, litigation attorney, was highlighted in Top 100 Michigan Super Lawyers. Lansing Jennifer M. Tichelaar, Attorney with Gallagher Law Firm, was appointed by Michigan State Bar Association Board of Commissioners to serve on State Bar Character and Fitness Committee. Mount Pleasant H&S Companies announced they are merging both Mount Pleasant practices in one office building, 112 N. Court Street. Susan Murray, CPA, Art Ross, and Brian Ross will all be available to help clients with a variety of financial and business needs at that location. Grand Rapids Jane C. Hofmeyer, attorney with Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge, was appointed to Community Media Centers Board of Directors. Lansing Richard Kraus, shareholder in Foster Swifts Lansing Office, was elected as Chair of the American Institute of Appellate Practice.

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10 ABC Predicts Moderate Construction Recovery Will Continue in 2013

Washington, D.C. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) released its 2013 economic forecast for the U.S. commercial and industrial construction industry, and it shows the continuation of a modest recovery for nonresidential construction next year. ABC predicts nonresidential construction spending will expand 5.2 percent in 2013, said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. Given the remarkably deep reductions in nonresidential construction spending since the onset of the downturn, one would expect more robust growth during the fourth year of broader economic recovery. Thanks to a handful of segments experiencing more rapid economic recovery, much of the construction expansion next year will be in categories heavily associated with private financing, Basu said. Due largely to constrained capital budgets at state and local government levels, as well as ongoing turmoil in Washington, D.C., publicly funded construction spending is expected to be flat next year, and perhaps worse. The fastest growing major U.S. industry during the last year in terms of absolute job creation was professional and business services, said Basu. Because many firms in this category use office space, office-related construction spending is expected to rise 10 percent in 2013. Consumer confidence also has progressed, Basu said. Accordingly, ABC predicts total commercial construction will expand roughly 10 percent next year. Other industries positioned to experience rising levels of investment include power, up 10 percent; lodging, up 8 percent; health care, up 5 percent; and manufacturing, up 5 percent. Nonresidential building construction employment is expected to expand 2.1 percent in 2013, slightly better than the 1 percent performance estimated for 2012, said Basu. Construction materials prices should rise a bit more rapidly in 2013 than they did in 2012, with substantially more volatility to be experienced from month to month next year. Despite ongoing slowdown in many of the worlds largest economies, ABC anticipates many investors will opt to invest in hard assets as a way to avoid volatility in equity and bond markets, Basu said. Conclusion Whether or not the nation falls off its fiscal cliff a collection of spending cuts and tax increases that kick in at the end of the yearcertain taxes likely are headed higher, said Basu. ABC predicts higher marginal income tax rates to reach pre-Bush levels, as well as an increase in tax rates on capital gains and dividend income. In addition, ABC expects the payroll tax credit to sunset in the first quarter of 2013. The U.S. economy is presently expanding at a 2 percent rate, said Basu. Even in the absence of a dive off the federal precipice, the nation will struggle to achieve 2 percent growth next year as certain tax rates rise and as federal spending growth slows and perhaps turns sharply negative. Gross domestic product (GDP) has expanded for 13 consecutive quarters, which has reduced vacancy rates in certain segments and in key metropolitan areas, Basu said. ABCs forecast for GDP growth next year is between 1 percent and 2 percent. If the nation falls off its fiscal cliff, recession will follow, with GDP falling between 2 percent and 3 percent for the year. With the elections now behind us, the hope is the White House and Congress will be able to successfully navigate the nation past its fiscal cliff, Basu said. If that happens, the latter half of 2013 could be surprisingly good for nonresidential activity given the large volume of construction projects that were put on hold during the course of 2012. However, the baseline forecast calls for only moderate expansion in nonresidential construction spending next year.

Construction Briefs
Grand Rapids Wolverine Building Group welcomed Jamerson Ries, P.E., Project Manager of Multi-Family Division, to oversee construction of apartments, student housing, affordable housing, senior housing, mixed use developments, and historic renovations; and Marc Alexa, Project Manager of North America Division, to oversee automotive dealership renovations, retail, restaurant, and fuel center construction. Holland Elzinga & Volkers was honored by American Subcontractor Association of Michigan as 2012 Michigan Contractor of the Year, an award created to acknowledge general contractors and construction managers who built organizations with outstanding character as well as exceptional practices in areas of bid ethics, jobsite coordination, payment practices and jobsite safety. Grand Rapids DK Security, security operations and investigations firm, announced addition of a Downtown Lansing Division office, 700 N. Washington. DK Securitys Lansing Division manages over 8,400 weekly hours of security officer services and 328 security officers. Grand Rapids Progressive AE announced Lon L. Morrisson, RA, joined as Healthcare Practice Leader providing guidance to the healthcare team through master planning, design and related medical expertise necessary for delivery of high quality healthcare facilities. Grand Rapids Erhardt Construction announced Sophias House, Saint Marys guest house for patients and their families, received LEED Gold Certification from U.S. Green Building Council. Holland Associated Builders and Contractors West Michigan Chapter recognized Elzinga & Volkers with 2012 Construction Safety Award of Excellence, which coincides with the company reaching an impressive safety milestone last month of 2,000 consecutive days worked without any lost-time injuries. Lansing C2AE completed the merger of New York Architecture and Engineering Firm Burley-Guminiak & Associates, Consulting Engineers, PLLC. This is the second firm expansion for C2AE in 2012. West Michigan - Signature Associates has negotiated: the sale of a 12,000 square foot industrial building located at 1007 Upton Avenue, Springfield to Springfield Equity Partners, LLC for the seller, Carrier Family Trust. the sale of a 17,600 square foot industrial building located at 418 W. Hackley, Muskegon for the buyer, Blue Ocean Properties, LLC. the sale of a 21,584 square foot industrial building located at 700 Plymouth Avenue NE, Grand Rapids to Meekhof Real Estate Investments, LLC for the seller, Bank of America. the sale of a 4,280 square foot industrial building located at 6186-6194 Grand Haven Road, Muskegon for the seller, Carl J. Van Dam Living Trust and the buyer, 6186 Grand Haven Road, LLC. the sale of a 95,064 square foot industrial building located at 200 Lovejoy Street, South Haven for the seller, F.H. Properties, L.P. Bryan and the buyer, Lovejoy, Inc who will be expanding its manufacturing operations in South Haven. the sale of a 5,920 square foot office condo located at 13818 West Bay Shore Drive S, Traverse City to Pasche Holdings #4, LLC for the seller, Northpointe Bank. Raymond James will be moving into this new space. the lease of 3,072 square feet of retail space located at 1420 Holton Road, Muskegon for the landlord, Edwin G. and Martha C. Zimmer Trust, and the tenant, Everest Sleep Company.

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Architecture Explored
By: Jane Whittington Winston Churchill once said of architecture, We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us. Once an architect has created a space to the specifications of the client, whether it is a home, a business or a public building, those who inhabit it respond, adapt and grow within that space. They respond to the angles and lines, the placement of the walls, the quality of light, the flow, the interplay of sun and shadow, the open space and the closed. They make the space their own, and it becomes a part of them. Anyone who has ever purchased a home, moved into a new business facility or walked into a school knows that the feel of the space is important. Home buyers use words like airy, open concept and good light to describe to their realtor what they are looking for. Business owners do the same. They want a facility that is comfortable, customer friendly, welcoming. We know what we want; we know what we like. And architects make it happen. Architecture is simply defined as the art and science of designing and erecting buildings. As both an art and a science, architecture demands an unusual constellation of skills, abilities and personal traits. The successful architect needs to combine mathematical abilities with the eye of an artist. In addition, he/she needs computer skills, the ability to be a good communicator (as a speaker, a writer and a listener), creativity and an understanding of construction. Besides being detail oriented, an architect should be flexible and ready and willing to work both as part of a team and autonomously. A bachelors degree is considered the minimum for entering the profession with many receiving masters degrees and/or preparing for the job through internships. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook is better than average with an increase of the number of jobs available increasing by 24 percent between 2010-2020. The American Association of Architects (AIA) reports that the AIA Consensus Construction Forecast Panel has not dampened its outlook for the nonresidential buildings market for the rest of 2012 and 2013. At present, nonresidential construction spending is projected to increase 4.4 percent this year up from a forecast of 2.1 percent growth at the beginning of the year. This increase is predicted to accelerate to a 6.2 percent gain in 2013. In terms of the outlook for residential architecture, the AIA says, Business conditions continue to trend up for residential architects.Inquiries for new projects remain strong. There are signs that key construction sectors, including entry-level homes, trade-up homes and custom and luxury homes are beginning to stabilize and may soon move back up to expansion mode. Integrated Architecture in Grand Rapids is part of the landscape with buildings to its credit that are familiar to the areas citizens. They are responsible for projects as diverse as Cathedral Square; the David Hunting YMCA; Gazelle Sports; several Spectrum Health Centers including the award winning Spectrum Health Medical Group facility in Holland; numerous buildings on the campuses of GVSU, Davenport, University of Michigan, Aquinas; Forest Hills Public Schools Fine Arts Building and many more. As one of the premier architectural firms in West Michigan, they have a reputation for excellence and innovation that they richly deserve. According to Mike Corby, Executive Vice President and Design Principal, the company was founded in 1988 by three friends who had graduated from the University of Michigan. Today the company employs a staff of 55 with an enviable history of steady growth. Their current building was designed and built in 1997 and is a unique structure attesting to the firms design skills and architectural originality. Corby says, We now have eight architects on staff. While Im the design principal and take the lead on many projects, we all contribute and have input into our designs. We work with both commercial and residential clients, but the core of our business is commercial. While the firm, like every business, took a hit during the recession, but it was minimized by the fact that so much of their work is institutional, specifically health care and university projects. Corby says that 2011 was their best year to date and 2012 has been almost as successful. Corby says, We do new buildings and redesign, renovation and/or additions to existing structures. Right now, were working on an addition to the BOB and recently renovated a high rise in Battle Creek. However, Id say that most of what we do is new buildings. Integrated Architectures new Spectrum Health facility in Holland will be featured on the cover of next months Building, Design and Construction magazine, a well-regarded industry publication. As Corby says, The design work weve done for health care facilities is really cutting edge, and the building in Holland is very different in its approach. Architecture is more than just the framework, however. Integrated Architecture also has a hand in the interior design, furniture and finishes. Corby estimates that at least 90 percent of the time, they do all or most of the interior details. Integrated Architecture does most of their work in this region, but they often travel farther afield. Theyve done work in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Chicago, New Mexico and other areas. Sustainability is definitely part of the vision of Integrated Architecture. This year, they were named one of the top 50 sustainable firms in the United States by Architecture Magazine. Many of their projects have achieved LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. Integrated Architecture is looking to expand by four or five employees in the near future. According to Corby, We dont want to get too big. Were happy with slow and steady growth. Corby predicts a bright future for Grand Rapids in terms of architectural innovation. He says, Kendall/Ferris is in the process of establishing an academic program for architecture. Im excited about where architecture is going. Grand Rapids is a community that has a lot of design history and capability. Over the next ten years, I expect that local architectural firms will continue to explore new concepts, ideas and designs. Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

12 With Technology Comes Prosperity

By: J.Finley Remember that feeling you received from signing and mailing all of your bills at once? The chaos and last minute budget crunching before you signed that amazing autograph you worked ever so hard on your whole life. Such a tedious and time consuming task. Combined with the stress of everyday living, you were then compelled to sit down and hand pay for your multiple bills. Making sure everything is signed, addressed properly, and in the mail on time. God forbid you procrastinated for any reason whatsoever and had to patiently wait for that late fee to pile on. As technology and the intelligence of man continues to incline in an upward spiral, so will the need of easier, faster, and more versatile ways of doing everyday things; This includes, but not limited to, the way we manage our money. Well my good people, someone wised up to this flaw. Thus came about mobile banking. Mobile banking is simple and nowadays almost every bank out there has it as an option. It allows one to check account balance(s), transfer funds between accounts, view all transaction history, and locate nearby branches and ATMS. It also gives customers more options to manage their finances.The kicker; All mobily. Stuck at the airport due to a delay, not sure what your current finance situation looks like because you had a business meeting in Boston that morning and quite frankly there wasnt enough time to make a pit stop at the nearest branch (wherever that may be)? No longer a problem, mobile banking, all your answers are right there at the fingertips. Alright, Interesting, you say, But how do I access this simple banking alternative? Easy, just simply set up an account with whichever bank preferred, that has mobile banking, and sign a form allowing mobile banking to be an available option. Download the free app, create and input your login information; Instant access. There is still one main question floating about in the air. Is it safe? Knowing of all the possible dangers attached to releasing any information online, many ponder this question. Well, the answer to the infamous question is simple and that answer is a resounding yes. Yes, Indeed it is safe. Due to the latest technology, banks can ensure that accounts and identities are safe- Carrie Brown, AVP Communications Manager, Independent Bank. With everything there are dangers and one should take all the proper steps and precautions to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience. We already now know that mobile banking is fast, safe, and convenient. However, it also allows less physical currency to be transferred via hand- everything is done electronically. This means, less paperwork and opportunity of late fees and an easier way to manage your money. Less room for error, that way you can sleep soundly, knowing you have not one thing to worry about when it comes to your banking. With banking becoming this simple, who would not give it a try? Over the next year, the usage of person to person banking is going to decline and that is solely based off the rate at which mobile banking has been progressing since it was established. People are busy; on the go. It is about time we all got where the world was going. J. Finley is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

Health Care Briefs

Grand Rapids Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services is seeking accreditation for a psychiatry residency program that will launch its first class in July, 2014. Medical school graduates are required to complete a residency - additional training in their specialty - before entering practice. Holland The Brain + Spine Center announced the medical device co-invented by the practices neurosurgeon David W. Lowry, MD, and Scott M. Tuinstra, PA-C, received 2012 Spine Tech Award in the cervical (neck) spine category. Las Vegas, Nevada Life EMS Ambulance unveiled a new concept in emergency transport vehicles featuring new interior design dedicated to improving patient experience, at the American Ambulance Associations 2012 Trade Show and Conference in Las Vegas. The interior features a radical departure from the industry norm of plain colored walls and sterile looking interiors, with a scheme inspired by nature including original artwork from Conrad Kaufman, a Kalamazoo artist. Grand Rapids Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital, Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital, Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial Hospital, and Spectrum Health United Hospital were each honored with an an A Hospital Safety ScoreSM by The Leapfrog Group. Grand Rapids Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital announced Physician Assistant Ashley Wharton is the 1,000th current employee. The hospital has experienced unusual growth during the past 17 months - between July 2011 and December 2012, 267 additional staff members were added for a 36% increase. The vast majority of additional hires have filled clinical positions. Battle Creek Colon and Rectal Surgery Center, PC, joined Bronson companies and is now called Bronson Center for Colon & Rectal Diseases providing the same services and care. Reed City Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital was chosen by Planetree, Inc., as Planetree Designated PatientCentered Hospital which recognizes achievement and innovation in delivery of patient-centered care. Grand Rapids Spectrum Health received letter of approval to perform lung transplants by United Network for Organ Sharing and patients can now be placed on Spectrum Healths waiting list. Kalamazoo HealthCare Midwest opened another physical therapy practice in the Portage Centre Plaza, 291 West Centre Ave., to better serve patients living in or near Portage, Vicksburg and Schoolcraft. Kalamazoo Bronson Internal Medicine Specialists welcomed Reuben Eliuk, DO, and Elizabeth Blomenberg, PA-C; Bronson Methodist Hospital welcomed Misty Miller, PA-C, to their newborn hospitalist team; Bronson Cardiothoracic Surgery welcomed Bonnie Wallace, PA-C; and Bronson LakeView Family Care in Paw Paw welcomed Marisa Leighton, NP. Grand Rapids Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital and Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital were named Top Urban Hospitals by The Leapfrog Group. Wayland InBalance Health provides doctor-formulated, alternative food bars, and supplement solutions for those suffering from Pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. Wyoming Metro Health Hospital announced it hired Dr. Leila M. Keeler as an Ob/Gyn. Dr. Keeler will now see patients at Metro Health Southwest and Metro Health Rockford. Grand Rapids Homewatch CareGivers announced hiring: Tina Rodenhouse responsible for client services, social media, human resources and marketing areas; and Shannon Hayward responsible for client scheduling by matching clients with compatible personal assistants. Grand Rapids A recently-published study by Van Andel Institute researchers and colleagues in China, demonstrates factors in tumor microenvironment played a crucial role in production and accumulation of a cell correlated to survival of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a cancer of the head and neck. NPC is uncommon in the U.S., but extremely common in southern China and Southeast Asia, where it accounts for 18% of all cancers. Grand Rapids Spectrum Health Center for Joint Replacement was ranked as 4th largest provider of hip and knee replacements as reported by Orthopedic Network News. Kalamazoo Bronson LakeView Family Care Pediatrics welcomed new Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Rose RothBowersock. Bronson Womens Service welcomed Certified Nurse Midwife Jenna Skope, MSN. Wyoming Metro Health Hospital received an A Hospital Safety ScoreSM by The Leapfrog Group. Kalamazoo According to The Leapfrog Group, Bronson Methodist Hospital and Bronson Battle Creek Hospital maintained an A Hospital Safety ScoreSM.

13 Michigan Credit Unions Gain Market Share

Lansing As the economy continues to improve, credit unions are increasingly becoming the service providers of choice for Michigan consumers when it comes to all their financial needs, according to an analysis of third quarter data by the Michigan Credit Union League & Affiliates (MCUL). According to the National Credit Union Administration, Michigan now has 4.53 million credit union members, a 1.3% increase since the end of 2011. With 84,000 new members so far this year, Michigan credit unions are on their way to the largest annual increase in at least eight years. Michigan consumers are turning to credit unions in record numbers to take advantage of the better rates, lower fees, and superior financial products and services we offer, said MCUL & Affiliates CEO David Adams. Consumers want to do business with a financial institution they can trust, and because credit unions put people over profit, they have earned the trust of Michiganders. For the 12-month period ending Sept. 30, deposits at Michigan credit unions increased by more than $2 billion or 5.6%. According to an analysis of data for all FDIC-insured bank branches operating in the state of Michigan, credit unions now have 18.6% of the states deposit market share, compared to 16.2% in 2009. This represents a significant shift of business away from banks and toward credit unions, as total deposits at credit unions over this time period are up over $6.1 billion or 19.5%. Credit unions have developed and cultivated innovative ways to reach out to build relationships with members and to help the people of the state prosper, and thats why more and more Michigan consumers trust credit unions with their hard-earned money, Adams said. In addition to financial counseling, credit unions offer programs such as SaveUp and Save To Win, which reward members for saving their money and paying down debt. This approach is what sets credit unions apart. Overall lending at Michigan credit unions rose by 1.4% in the third quarter, the highest increase in at least nine quarters. In particular, the third quarter of 2012 was the best quarter in three years for new auto loans at credit unions, which rose by 2.4%. Used auto loan growth was also strong at 2.7%. According to data from Experian AutoCount which tracks loan data registered with the Michigan Secretary of State, Michigan credit unions are also gaining market share when it comes to auto loans. The data shows that in the third quarter of 2011 credit unions accounted for 10.4% and 35.2% of new and used auto loans respectively. In the third quarter of 2012, these same figures rose to 15.7% and 37.8%, respectively. Mortgage loans from Michigan credit unions year to date are nearly double where they were this time last year, totaling $3.2 billion, as consumers continue to refinance with historically low interest rates. On the whole, credit unions offer better rates and lower fees than big banks, so its no surprise that Michigan consumers continue to seek out credit unions for all their financial needs. Furthermore, we know that consumer credit helps drive the economy, and credit unions have never stopped providing consumers with access to the credit needed to purchase cars, buy homes, and put meals on the table, Adams added. Michigan credit unions continue to be national leaders when it comes to providing small businesses with the access to capital they need. Member business loans were up 4.8% in the third quarter, far ahead of the national rate of 2.3%. The continued growth in member business lending underscores that credit unions are a popular choice for capitalchallenged small businesses, Adams said. Credit unions could do even more to help if Congress would act on S. 2331, the Small Business Lending Enhancement Act, which would raise the current cap on how much credit unions can lend to small businesses. Its critical for Congress to pass this bipartisan, commonsense legislation now so our nations small businesses can create jobs and renew our economys vitality. The third quarter data also shows other high points: Net worth at Michigans credit unions is back up above 11%, from 10.82% one year ago; Return on assets is up to .97% compared to .66% one year ago; Loan delinquencies are down to 1.13% from 1.48% one year ago. Michigan credit unions continue to grow and more importantly, continue to spark Michigans economic comeback, by helping families save money, supporting small businesses, and creating jobs, Adams said. Michigan credit unions are responsive to the needs of their members and their communities, and that support has yielded continued growth both for credit unions and for our states economy as a whole.

Finance/Insurance/Banking Briefs
Grand Rapids Lake Michigan Credit Union announced promotion of Nicholas Groulx to District Manager of Retail Operations for Ottawa County. Grand Rapids Founders Bank & Trust announced Seth Leyendecker joined as Employee Benefits Relationship Manager, and will be responsible for set up and administration of 401k and retirement plans for customers. Grandville Berends Hendricks Stuit welcomed: Karla Bylsma, Marketing/ Business Development Coordinator; Kelly Weber, Personal Account Manager; and Angelea Galey, Personal Account Manager. Grand Rapids Lake Michigan Credit Union announced promotion of Jodi Wildfong, Assistant Manager and Branch Supervisor, to District Manager. Lansing Independent Banks Cheryl Bartholic, Senior Vice President of Commercial Loans, was appointed to Michigan Education Trust Board of Directors by Gov. Rick Snyder. Muskegon Independent Bank announced it is offering MSHDA Grants under new National Mortgage Settlement Funds program where first-time nonmilitary homebuyer grants can be as much as $3,000 and up to $5,000 for military members. Borrowers refinancing under Freddie Mac or Fannie Maes Home Affordable Refinance programs may be eligible for $500 to apply toward closing costs. Grand Rapids Founders Bank & Trust announced Brian Hofstra, former Assistant Vice President, was promoted to position of Vice President Commercial Lending. Hancock LaSalle Technology Group, LLC, received a $50,000 Business Accelerator Fund grant to employ two marketing agencies to assist them in growing their customer base in the financial trade market. Grand Rapids Sue Harig joined Lighthouse Group as Account Manager in their Benefits Department, bringing over 20 years of agency experience primarily focusing on compliance and technology services. Muskegon Jessica Rycenga joined Lighthouse Group as Title Customer Service Representative. Grand Rapids - Arms Insurance Agency has officially merged with The Campbell Group, a division of Acrisure, as of December 1, 2012. The Arms Insurance staff will be moving into The Campbell Group office in Caledonia, officially March 1, 2013.

Education Briefs
Grand Rapids Grand Valley State University College of Education honored two outstanding educators during its convocation ceremony: Rodney C. Lewis received Outstanding Alumni Educator Award, and Cynthia Mader received Exceptional Service to Education Award. Madison Heights Michigan Association of Career Colleges and Schools (MACCS) announced a new scholarship program that will award a $1000 scholarship to six students per year who are actively enrolled at one of 37 MACCS schools and campus locations. Grand Rapids Grand Valley State University and West Shore Community College signed a transfer agreement to help students who transfer to Grand Valley complete an associate degree at WSCC. Grand Rapids Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University was awarded LEED Gold certification by U.S. Green Building Council for its newly renovated, redeveloped Historic Federal Building. Lansing Erin Brown, Strategic Adviser and Project Manager for Holton Research, and Lori Gwizdala, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Chemical Financial Corp., were appointed to Ferris State Universitys Board of Trustees to serve eight-year terms. Big Rapids Joe Joyce, Faculty Member, Coordinator and Advisor for Ferris State Universitys Industrial Technology and Management Program, was awarded Society of Petroleum Engineers Star Fellowship Award for Eastern North American Region of the U.S. Grand Rapids Effective July 1, 2013, West Side Learning Corner announced its GED and ESL programs will be located within Leslie E. Tassell M-TEC, 622 Godfrey Ave. SW. Grand Rapids Davenport University named Michael R. Bowers, Ph.D., as Dean of Donald W. Maine College of Business. Kalamazoo Three Western Michigan University seniors majoring in integrated supply management received scholarships and were honored at the 13th Annual Institute for Supply Management Services Conference in Phoenix: Dylan Green of Livonia; Ross Hughes, of Commerce Township; and David Lipowski of Mattawan. Big Rapids Ferris State University Foundation Board of Directors announced appointments of: Michael Bigford, President and CEO of Reed Citybased Utility Supply and Construction Company; Karl Linebaugh, President of Chemical Banks North Region; and Stephanie Leonardos, President and CEO of Amerikam, Inc., company with a long history of collaboration with Ferris State University. Grand Rapids The American Heart Association recognized Grand Valley State University as Platinum FitFriendly Worksite for 2012, for promoting a wellness culture offering physical activity options, increasing healthy eating options, and demonstrating measurable outcomes related to workplace wellness. Big Rapids Dr. David Damari accepted appointment as Dean of Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University, effective March 28, 2013. Kalamazoo Four community college Presidents, including Dr. Dennis Bona of Kellogg Community College, visited campus of Western Michigan University to sign reverse transfer agreements allowing students to begin their studies at community college level, transfer to WMU, and earn an associate degree using WMU credits. The agreements are tailored to each institution, generally allowing students earning at least 30 credits at community college to apply as many as 30 WMU credits toward completing an associates degree. Big Rapids Peter Bradley was named Director of Honors Program at Ferris State University, effective Monday, Jan. 7. Mr. Bradley is from McDaniel College in Westminster, Md. Kalamazoo Albion College and Kellogg Community College (KCC) announced their new honors program agreement allowing KCC honors students to transfer to Albion Colleges Prentiss M. Brown Honors Program and eventually graduate with Albion College honors. Grand Rapids Grand Valley State Universitys Johnson Center for Philanthropy released The Estimate of Charitable Giving in Kent County Report for 2010, indicating donations in Kent County totaled $601,658,407, an increase of 7.7 % from 2009. The increase in Kent County is almost double the national reported increase of 4.5 %, according to Giving USA.

Tech Recruiting
West Michigan - Tech hiring in is high demand for mid-level candidates (Programmers, Analysts,and Web Developers): According to the release of the new Technology Employment Forecast for Winter/ Spring 2013, Paragon Recruiting, 60% of responding companies plan to hire tech staffers in the next 6-12 months. Including a pay rate increase, in the next 6 months, compared to last June. As well with three times as much hiring by educational groups. Paragon has been forecasting since 2003 and has about 100 West Michigan firms faithfully participating in studies.

Construction Briefs
Grand Rapids Rockford Construction announced Jim Reminga joined as Senior Vice President of Land and Master Planning. Battle Creek Clark Construction Company, who served as Construction Manager, joined in celebration marking the opening of the new FireKeepers Hotel and Event Center, officially opening the 242 room hotel. The eight-story resort-style hotel and event center features 23 one-bedroom suites, two presidential suites, deluxe classic rooms, a multi-level pool area with fountain, hot tub, sauna and steam room, state-ofthe-art fitness center featuring Precor equipment, a business center, Grand Lobby, and a multi-purpose event center with seating up to 2,000. Grand Rapids DK Security announced appointment of Jon Priebe as Lansing Division Operations Manager. Wyoming, Grand Rapids, and Walker Wolverine Building Group announced renovations and re-opening of three Taco Bell restaurants which received major upgrades to meet current Taco Bell standards for design and construction. New exterior finishes, signage, and upgraded interior finishes feature bright and colorful dcor, and abundant natural light. Grand Rapids Rockford Construction announced their partnership with Rigid Global Buildings, leading manufacturer of pre-engineered steel buildings, and was selected as an Authorized Builder for Michigan. Kalamazoo CSM Group announced Emily Harlow as recipient of 2012 CSM Architect Fellowship Grant. Harlow is a senior at Andrews University majoring in Architecture, Art, and Design. Grand Rapids Patriot Realty announced Linda Sheiko joined as Realtor with more than 25 years of real estate experience. Lansing Clark Construction announced it hired Paul Bemis as Business Development Manager. Kalamazoo CSM Group announced promotion of Doug Vrba from Project Engineer to Project Manager. Kalamazoo CSM Group welcomed Nathan Boyer as Accounting Intern. Holland National Association for Business Resources awarded Elzinga & Volkers Construction, for second consecutive year, as a 2012 National Best and Brightest Company to Work For. Rockford Matt McCambridge was promoted from Project Manager to President of Nugent Builders, Inc. Rick Nugent is now Chief Executive Officer. Lansing Clark Construction announced hiring Carl Schuemann as Senior Estimator with 30-years experience in construction. Grand Rapids DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen received local Home Builders Association Award for Best Single Space in the remodeling category in Fall Parade of Homes.

15 Galapagos Marketing Facilitating Growth of Community and Regional Banks

By: Jane Whittington What do Charles Darwin, the Galapagos Islands and banking have in common? Quite a lot, according to Jeremy Kane, founder and co-owner of Galapagos Marketing in Grand Rapids. Kane and business partner Terry Bell were managers in Crowe Horvaths marketing consulting practice where they developed a particular interest and expertise dealing with the marketing functions of both large and small banks and helping them develop strategies to grow. Both Bell and Kane found that they preferred working with smaller community and regional banks, where they were able to deal directly with the decision makers, develop meaningful, long-term relationships and continue to work with them as the recommended strategies were implemented. Together, they decided to approach Crowe Chizek management with an eye to buying that part of the practice devoted to these smaller banks. Thus, in 2007, Kane and Bell founded Galapagos Marketing, bringing with them some of their previous clients and soon acquiring more as their reputation grew. Today, they work with banks as far west as Montana and as far east as New Hampshire, although the majority of their business is centered in the Midwest. As for the name, Kane says, I was reading about Charles Darwins exploration in the Galapagos Islands. While all the islands were similar, Darwin observed that species who were most successful were those who were able to develop their natural abilities, adapt to the environment and thus survive and even flourish. He continues, Galapagos Marketing understands that banks exist in similar environments and share similar characteristics. They all have access to the same products, the same customers, the same markets. The general challenges that all banks face and how they operate are pretty much the same. But some thrive and do well, and some dont. We find those elements and particular strengths that will allow them to grow. And we also find their weaknesses and help them eliminate what is limiting their growth. Marketing banks is a relatively new phenomenon, which, according to Kane, took on importance in the 1990s as competition increased. Banks began to realize that they were in a competitive environment. They had to strategize to grow, and that wasnt a role they had played before. Community and regional banks needed to provide the same services as larger banks but provide it in a way that stressed their involvement in the community as well as their legacy of philanthropy. Kane says that even though larger banks may be doing many of the same things in the community, their actions dont reflect on the bank itself as much as it might for a bank that has been a part of the community for years. Kane says, Our business is focused on helping community banks grow and grow profitably. As an offshoot of that, we work with them to apply their marketing and sales resources in the most effective way. We will look at the markets they serve, look at their customer base and analyze which strategies to employ to maximize both their short- and long-term growth. Then, once weve worked with a bank to understand where and how they want to grow, well build the marketing mix that will allow them to do that most effectively. Integral to the process is the function of measuring success and validating how much any bank has grown within the framework of the new strategies. Galapagos is able to provide that and promise that whatever they have given to their clients will deliver multiples of the cost of the project. And Galapagos does work on a project basis; they dont bill by the hour as many agencies do but instead offer a complement of services, strategies and measurable outcomes regardless of the time expended. And they expect that the relationship they have developed with the bank will continue as well. As the banks needs, challenges and opportunities change, Galapagos works with them to manage change. Despite the fact that Galapagos Marketing entered the economy in 2007, just as it was faltering, they have achieved success and continued growth. Kane says, During the most recent recession, many large banks lost customers to smaller community and regional banks as well as to credit unions. This worked in our favor as we developed ways to profit and for our banks to profit in difficult circumstances. Our growth has been slow but steady. Kane, originally from Cornwall, England, came to the United States in 1986 to earn a masters degree at Bowling Green University after undergraduate work at the University of Reading in Great Britain. Galapagos Marketing now employs eight. Bell and another employee focus on data analysis while Kane concentrates on planning and strategy and, along with three others, manages accounts. There is also a web manager, an art director and a former bank CEO who works on new business development. Kane says, We havent needed to market our own services. Our growth has come through word-of-mouth. As we have helped banks succeed, they have spread the word and helped us succeed. Jane Whittington is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Grand Rapids.

16 Industrial Briefs
Charlotte Spartan Chassis, unit of Spartan Motors, Inc., announced it was awarded a subcontract order from defense contractor BAE Systems to support continued production of 24 International Light Armored Vehicles, a threat-specific mine-protected vehicle, and was issued as a three-year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity contract, providing for possibility of follow-on orders. Kalamazoo Landscape Forms announced appointment of Amanda Nawara, Direct Sales Representative for Western Michigan which includes all of Western and Southern Michigan. Toni Gasporoni will continue to represent Northern and Eastern Michigan. Grand Rapids American Seating, leader in innovative seating solutions for 125 years, was honored as 2012 Interior Design Merit Honoree for their new Us Chair. Holland Lakeshore Advantage announced participation as an affiliate partner in a $120 million federal Energy Department grant to create the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research with its epicenter at Argonne National Laboratory near Chicago. The purpose of the grant is to help achieve breakthroughs in energy storage technology. Jackson The NYC Department of Corrections recently opted to implement an energy efficient lighting initiative in an effort to cut costs and enhance efficiency at their larger facilities. The Department of Corrections replaced a variety of metal halide and high pressure sodium lights with nearly 1,000 EverLast induction fixtures. Holland Chef Container, LLC announced award of a 10 year contract for collection of refuse and recycling for Village of Douglas located in Allegan County, saving residents an average of $50.00 per year. Grand Rapids Crystal Flash Energy joined Alliance AutoGas network as an exclusive dealer in Michigan and will provide a complete program to help regional fleets switch to propane autogas, a fuel that is nearly as efficient and powerful as gasoline or diesel but with virtually no tailpipe emissions. Grand Rapids USGBC West Michigan Chapter announced the following 2013 Board of Directors: Jennifer Allen, Chater House Innovations; Cheri Holman, Hurst Mechanical; Steve Hassevoort, InForm Architecture; Brett Little, Alliance for Environmental Sustainability; and Mark Zoeteman, FTC&H. Kalamazoo Landscape Forms announced acquisition of Meld USA, industry leader in materials innovation, design, development, and manufacture of products made of Ultra High Performance Concrete. Meld USA founder Peter Bustin joins Landscape Forms management team, reporting to Rick Utting, Director of Strategic Initiatives. Mayville, WI Mayville Engineering Company, Inc., employee owned company with broad range of prototyping, production manufacturing, and fabricating, announced it acquired through private stock purchase, Center Manufacturing, Inc., Byron Centers manufacturer of metal products for commercial vehicles, powersports, agriculture, construction, automotive, and military industries. Allegan Perrigo announced Amanda Culver was promoted to Support Services Supervisor for Plant 5 Liquid Operations team, to work on continuous improvement projects, and oversee the quality coordinator, trained investigator, safety coordinator, and Continuous Improvement team. Grand Rapids Praxis Packaging Solutions announced addition of Michael Bourdo as Director of Operations with twenty years of progressive management experience, including manufacturing management and corporate planning. Grand Rapids Cascade Engineering announced it was awarded the highestlevel designation, Credentialed Partner, for its anti-racism efforts by Partners for a Racism-Free Community Partners, an organization focused on promoting racial harmony, and a community defined by compassion and justice. St. Louis, MO Graybar announced Randall R. Harwood was elected Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective January 1, 2013. He is currently District Vice President in the companys Dallas district, and follows the announcement that D. Beatty DAlessandro will be resigning from Graybar at the end of this year. Hancock BridgeGuard welcomed Andrew G. Niemi, PE, Application Engineering and Sales. Andy comes from a civil engineering construction and utilities planning background.

Fuel Cells Proving to be Perfect Power Partner

Washington, DC Leading companies continue to move the fuel cell industry forward, purchasing more than 32 MW of stationary fuel cell systems and 1,100 fuel cell forklifts for U.S. facilities in the past year alone. Several are relying on fuel cells to help provide reliable power to major data centers and communications hubs. The Business Case for Fuel Cells 2012: Americas Partner In Power, a new report released today by Fuel Cells 2000, a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., profiles companies achieving both economic and environmental benefits with fuel cell deployments as part of overall sustainability plan. Fuel cells are the perfect silent partner, quietly bolstering efficiency and reliability without harmful emissions, and work in tandem with other technologies, including renewable such as solar, wind and biogas, and conventional ones such as natural gas and batteries, as part of a comprehensive energy portfolio. Many companies are becoming repeat fuel cell customers, purchasing additional systems after experiencing benefits and savings. The leaders are AT&T, with more than 17 MW either installed or on order for 28 sites in Connecticut and California; Walmart, with 26 stores in California powered by fuel cells and 3 facilities in North America using fuel cell forklifts; and Sysco, with more than 700 fuel cell forklifts deployed at seven facilities in the U.S., with hundreds more on order. Fuel cells have many benefits that collectively help boost a companys productivity from longer lasting fuel cells for materials handling; stationary units powering through blackouts and hurricanes; to pairing with other technologies to achieve high efficiency and complete grid independence, , says Jennifer Gangi, program director, Fuel Cells 2000. All of the fuel cells referenced in the report were manufactured in the U.S., by U.S. companies, another way the fuel cell industry bolsters the economy. This new report is third in the series. The 2010 and 2011 reports profiled 62 well-known companies using fuel cells for backup or primary power, or materials handling. The companies in those reports have purchased or deployed more than 45 MW of stationary power and 2,000 fuel cell-powered forklifts.

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17 Michigan Manufacturers Announce 2013 Agenda to Eliminate Barriers to Competitiveness

LANSING The Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA) has announced the organization's 2013 Legislative and Regulatory priorities. The agenda was developed by MMA's Policy Committees to ensure the priorities set forth are manufacturing focused and member driven. The priorities outlined are focused on eliminating barriers to competitiveness and continuing Michigan's manufacturing driven economic recovery. MMA represents more than 2,300 manufacturers throughout the state who are strongly committed to removing barriers to competitiveness, advancing their industry and continuing to create jobs, said MMA President and CEO, Chuck Hadden. Tremendous progress has been made. This agenda will continue to strip away barriers to competitiveness and build a business environment that allows Michigan manufacturers to compete effectively in the global economy. It is crucial that we continue the reinvention led by Governor Snyder and legislative leaders over the past two years, Hadden adds. Manufacturing has created more than half of the total jobs in Michigan over the last two years and is the largest sector of the Michigan economy, providing 526,000 high-tech, high wage jobs. In 2013, MMA will be championing policy changes that send the message that Michigan is open for business, Hadden said. MMA's 2013 Legislative and Regulatory Agenda covers a full range of policy reforms including tax policy, employment and workforce reform, competitive environmental regulation, cost of government, energy policy and transportation infrastructure. Here are a few of the highlights: Elimination of the Industrial Personal Property Tax Elimination of the industrial Personal Property Tax (PPT) will remove a $395 million barrier to competiveness for Michigan manufacturers. MMA is committed to working toward full implementation of the 2012 legislation, including addressing necessary technical changes and passage of the ballot proposal in 2014 to ensure funding for local services. Solving the Manufacturing Talent Crisis Manufacturing is leading the economic recovery and continues to be an employment leader in Michigan with 10,000 new jobs expected in 2013 and 9,000 in 2014, according to a recent report by University of Michigan economist George Fulton. This continued growth is dependent on the availability of skilled workers to keep up with demand and to expand operations. MMA will continue to work closely with the Snyder Administration, legislators, community colleges and other key stakeholders to identify solutions to Michigan's skills gap. Restraining Health Care Costs Ninety-one percent of manufacturers offer health care benefits, as compared to seventy percent of all other industries, making them the largest purchasers of health care in Michigan. Health care spending per capita in the United States eclipses that of all other countries, making it imperative that we restrain costs, including taxes and fees, to prevent further competitive disadvantage for Michigan manufacturers in the global economy. MMA will continue to oppose policies that increase the cost and complexity of private health care and fight disincentives to employer coverage. No More State-Specific Regulations When Michigan companies are faced with state-specific regulations that are more restrictive than their counterparts in other states, the cost of operating in our state becomes uncompetitive. To improve our competitiveness, MMA will continue its efforts to advocate for statutory changes that limit administrative rule authority and to eliminate state-specific regulatory standards that exceed federal law without specific legislative approval. Evaluating the Energy Landscape To help Michigan operate from the basis of knowledge, MMA supports Governor Snyder's call for a process to establish solid information regarding the energy landscape. An evaluation of the current energy environment, including national policy and state energy cost and demands, is essential to determining an energy plan that is appropriate for Michigan. Building the New International Trade Crossing The New International Trade Crossing will create an expressway-toexpressway connection to global markets for Michigan's economy. Several steps need to be accomplished before the bridge can be built. MMA will continue to support the efforts of the Snyder Administration to build an international trade crossing that moves at the speed of the global economy.

2012 Local Wage & Salary Survey

Grand Rapids The Employers Association has just released its 2012 2013 Wage & Salary Survey. The survey was recently completed and represents data from 180 organizations from the West Michigan area for 347 jobs within 16 major job families. The results reveal that pay rates increased overall by 2.8% from 2011. Examples of key findings include Information Systems Manager and Purchasing Clerk, both of which had an above average increase of approximately two percent with reported earnings for the Information Systems Manager of $75,856.85 in 2012, up from $74,083.55 in 2011. Results for the Purchasing Clerk position in 2012 averaged $16.81 per hour. In 2011 the rate was $16.52 per hour. Another example is the Administrative Assistant job which averaged $38,799.67 in 2012, up from $36,396.04 in 2011; an increase of seven percent. The survey wage data is calculated by average, weighted average, median, 25th/75th quartiles and 10th/90th percentiles. Variable pay (bonus) data is also displayed. In addition, the overall data for each job can be compared by company size, industry, geographic location, and union status. For more information or to order the report, contact Maggie McPhee (mcphee@teagr.org) or visit The Employers Associations website (www.teagr.org).

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18 State Boasts More Than 100 Wineries Using Michigan-Grown Fruit

Lansing - Michigans wine grape acreage doubled over the past decade, according to a report recently released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service. While acreage of Concord and Niagara grape varieties -- used primarily for juice, jams and jelly -- have remained steady at approximately 12,000 acres over the past 10 years, acreage of wine grapes increased from 1,300 to 2,650 acres. Top five wine grape varieties (in acres): 2002 2011 Riesling 204 595 Pinot Noir 93 235 Chardonnay 187 215 Pinot Gris 53 210 Cabernet Franc 54 155 Riesling is the most widely planted wine grape, with acreage nearly tripling in the past decade. Michigan producers are creating world-class Rieslings and earned more than 20 top awards in 2012 for Riesling wines in a variety of styles, from bone dry to sweet ice wine. The International Riesling Foundation lists Michigan among notable global producers. But Riesling isnt the only star of the survey. Cabernet Franc acreage also tripled in the past decade. Pinot Gris increased nearly 300 percent. And Pinot Noir has replaced Chardonnay as the states second most planted variety, with acreage increasing 150 percent in the last 10 years. More than 40 varieties of wine grapes with at least two acres of production were reported. Traditional European varieties (vinifera) account for two-thirds of Michigans wine grape acreage. The balance is mainly comprised of hybrid varieties (crosses between European and native North American varieties). Traditionally, the wine grape industry in Michigan was concentrated in four primary counties: Berrien, Van Buren, Grand Traverse and Leelanau. Due to winery expansion around the state, the survey shows vineyard land exceeding 10 acres in each of the following counties: Allegan, Antrim, Benzie, Cass, Charlevoix, Jackson, Lenawee, Oceana, Sanilac and Washtenaw. Michigan ranked fourth in total grape production in the United States in 2011, behind California, Washington and New York, and ranked fifth in wine grape production. Michigan hovers between fifth and eighth place for wine grape production from year to year, depending on weather events that can severely influence regional production volumes in any given year. According to the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, there are 101 commercial wineries producing more than 1.3 million gallons of Michigan wine annually.

General Business
Holland Nestlings Diaper Bank received $1,000 grant from Allendale Greatest Needs Fund of Allendale Community Foundation to diaper low income babies in Allendale. Grand Rapids Van Andel Arenas Fifth Third Bank Vault, the arenas own in-house restaurant and bar managed by Savor, a division of SMG and Management Company for Van Andel Arena, won the Downtown Award for Best Kept Secret - a program recognizing exceptional accomplishments. Grand Rapids Family Christian, nations largest Christian retail chain with 280 stores in 36 states, announced its management team partnered with a group of Atlanta-based Christian businessmen to acquire the company from its private equity owners. Under the new ownership, Family Christians pledge is to contribute all of its profits to Christian causes, and ministries serving widows and orphans both in the U.S. and abroad. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Community Foundations Board of Trustees awarded grants supporting a variety of projects in the community: Arbor Circle received $75,000 for providing home and school-based intervention services for families with risk factors for child abuse and neglect; Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids received $100,000 to assist former prisoners to transition into community workplace training, a paid work experience, job placement and follow-up; Grand Rapids Art Museum received $50,000 to expand social and educational programs, increase number of trained docents, develop digital media plans, and establish stronger relationships with diverse customers and local universities; Nonprofit Technical Assistance Fund received $40,000 to a pooled fund that helps nonprofits with consulting services to strengthen organizations, finances, structure or board; and West Michigan Miracle League received $25,000 to build a field for children with disabilities the opportunity to play baseball and will be the first of its kind in West Michigan. Grand Rapids The Better Business Bureau Serving Western Michigan congratulated winners of the 2012 BBB Integrity Awards: Trust Thermal Abatement, asbestos, mold, and lead abatement - Owosso; Adams and Sons Heating and Cooling, started 13 years ago by Barry Adams - Sodus; and Celink, reverse mortgage company Lansing. Grand Rapids Non-profit organization Junior Achievement of Michigan Great Lakes announced it ended its 2012 fiscal year with a budget surplus, and extended its classroom presence with more than 1,200 volunteers reaching nearly 60,000 students, a 6.7% increase over the previous year, while serving more than 2,300 classes across Michigan. Frankenmuth Michigan Bean Commission named 27-year industry veteran Joe Cramer as Executive Director, to lead an association that helped make Michigan one of the largest bean producers nationally and globally. Grand Rapids Organicycles new residential curbside composting service includes weekly pick-ups with standard two-wheel curbside cart where residents are asked to divert food, paper, pet and yard waste. According to recent EPA studies, over 60% of household waste is comprised of organic material, and nearly 30% is taken by traditional recycling services with less than 10% left as unrecyclable materials. Grand Rapids Sean Sommerfield, Owner of Visual Biscuit Studio is closing the doors to pursue a new opportunity with Dart Frog Creative.

New Broadband Availability Figures

Lansing New research unveiled by Connect Michigan shows that the broadband availability gap in Michigan is shrinking, with 96.45% of Michigan residents now having access to fixed broadband speeds of 3 Mbps download/768 Kbps upload, compared to 95.39% last April. Nonprofit Connect Michigan has been working since 2009 to ensure that Michigan residents have access to the economic, educational, and quality of life benefits derived from increased broadband access, adoption, and use. Part of that work includes maintaining detailed analysis of broadband availability across the state to support broadband planning efforts. Through its Connected program, Connect Michigan is currently working with 18 communities across the state to support comprehensive community broadband planning efforts and provide technical assistance. Among the findings of the new broadband availability research are: 96.45% of Michigan households can access broadband at advertised speeds of 3 Mbps download/768 Kbps upload (excluding mobile and satellite services), which means approximately 137,000 households are in areas eligible for Connect America Fund broadband deployment subsidies. Access to broadband speeds of at least 25 Mbps download/1.5 Mbps upload continues to rise, climbing from 83% to 86.22% of Michigan households in six months (excluding mobile and satellite services). Broadband at the basic 768 Kbps download/200 Kbps upload tier is available to 98.71% of Michigan households, up from 98.21% last April (excluding mobile and satellite services), leaving approximately 50,000 households unable to connect to basic high-speed Internet. In terms of broadband competition, 94.03% of Michigan households have the ability to choose broadband service from two or more non-mobile broadband providers (also excludes satellite providers).

Communication & IT
Innovation Powers Agent X Success
By: Jane Whittington Agent X may sound like a superhero, but its actually a digital and experiential marketing company right here in Grand Rapids that is amped up to provide innovative concepts to its everincreasing list of clients. Amway, Charter Communications, Adobe, Norton Antivirus, National Heritage Academies, Red Bull: these are just a few of the companies that turn to Agent X when they want cutting-edge technology, superlative support services and the newest of new ideas. And their blend of products and services has helped them achieve a three-year growth rate of 179 percent as well as a spot on Inc. 5000s list of Americas fastest-growing private companies. In 2012, their work won national awards for two brand partners, Charter Communications and Symantec. Talk about super-heroes! Agent X was founded in late 2007 and now has six employees in Grand Rapids along with two in St. Louis, MO. Founder and CEO Brian Steketee says, We are a marketing company focusing on two media, digital and live marketing. In terms of our digital presence, we build websites; create and manage online campaigns; and help companies use their websites more effectively. In terms of live marketing, we are in the business of the marketing, logistics, planning and promotion of live events and that includes both the creative and operational functions. We focus on digital advertising and application development. That can include a variety of strategies; theres no one size fits all, so we work with each client depending on their own unique challenges, needs, opportunities and desired outcomes. The CableFax Best of the Web Award in Best Digital Marketing Campaign was presented to Charter Communications for the 2011 Battle of the Bands campaign designed for them by Agent X. Using the power of social media, strategic marketing and creative ideas, Agent X coordinated a nationwide Battle of the Bands. On Facebook, local bands posted videos online, votes were tallied and the 11 finalists were given the opportunity to have a professional video produced for the final voting. Finally, one band, Sunderland, was chosen. They appeared at a huge concert in Madison, Wisc. hosted by Charter Communications as an opening act to Panic at the Disco, Fitz and the Tantrums and Plain White Ts. The concert was streamed live in high def and the whole interactive experience, from beginning to end, drove new business to Charter Communications, exactly as intended. They repeated their successful Battle of

19
the Bands in 2012, with a final concert in St. Louis. Agent X has a prototype of a whole new way to interact online. A 360 degree application for the iOS (a mobile operating system developed by Apple and originally designed for the iPhone and iPod Touch, it now has been enhanced to support other Apple devices), it allows users to attend an event online and get the real life experience through their iPad. As part of the experience, the viewer can select camera angles, explore the environment and become part of the action. According to Steketee, it should be in the marketplace by 2013. Steketee and his team are looking to grow, but he says, We value slow and steady growth. Customer service is so important to us that we are wary of growing too rapidly. However, were looking to add clients in West Michigan, and we do plan to hire a couple of new people soon. The Agent X website is state-of-theart and gives more information about this dynamic company: www.agentx.com

Communications & IT
Grand Rapids Cellular & More, a Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer based out of Canton, MI, expanded to Grand Rapids area where they opened a new 4,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility featuring comprehensive hands-on display area showcasing latest emerging devices including smartphones, tablets, wireless modems, mobile hotspots, and Home Phone Connect a wireless replacement for your home landline as well as home internet on the largest 4G network. Grand Rapids Service Express Inc. hired Jessie Sprotte, Marketing & Lead Generation Specialist. Grand Rapids WOOD TV8 announced hiring Heather Walker as News Reporter. Previously, Heather worked for KIMA-TV in Yakima, Washington, as an investigative reporter. Grand Rapids H&S Companies announced additions of Heath Bauman, Jake Sieting, and Seth Moore to their Computers Division. H&S is also renovating their office to add two new workspaces to their Computers Division. Madison, WS TDS Telecommunications Corp. (TDS) announced its American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus-funded broadband Internet project in Chatham, MI, is now accessible to nearly everyone living in the area. Just over 125 miles of fiber optic cabling was installed and 29 cabinets (which protect advanced network electronics) were placed throughout all five of TDS Chatham Telephone Company exchange areas to provide high-speed Internet access to more residents. Battle Creek Battle Creek Unlimited Marketing Coordinator Paula Young accepted a first place award from MidAmerica Economic Development Council for Battle Creek Unlimited 2010-11 Annual Report, and second place recognition for their marketing brochure. Young developed and provided graphic design for the annual report which was produced by Chris Russell Designs. Grand Rapids WGVU Public Media celebrated its 40th anniversary. In 1972, WGVC-TV Channel 35 became a service of Grand Valley State University starting with one channel for four hours a day; in 1984, WGVK-TV Channel 52 began operating in Kalamazoo; and in 1987, the call letters of 35 were converted to WGVU TV, reflecting Grand Valley State Colleges transformation to Grand Valley State University. Holland Code Blue Corporation announced acquisition of a 34,000 square foot facility, 259 Hedcor, which will be transformed into the companys new corporate headquarters and production center. Construction is currently underway to upgrade offices and production floor, with move in expected Spring 2013.