Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Business
update
$2.00
1993-2010 ublication
Features:
Women in Business
Credit Union Update
Transportation
Packaging
Surveying
Construction
Dental
Travel & Lodging
October is Women in Business Month here at Business Update. Each year, we take a month to put the spot-
light on some of our local women and their organizations, leaders in their industries, highlighting their stories
and their increasingly important roles in our business economy.
Nancy Couturier – 1992 by Steve Couturier and became a further accommodate the needs of our reinvests to improve our company, includ-
President & Owner woman-owned business under Nancy customers. Additionally, we expanded the ing but not limited to our customers,
of Magnum Powder Couturier in 2003 as a part of Magnum's scope of our services to accommodate dif- employees and suppliers. We are not the
Coating, Inc. diversification process. fering weights, thicknesses and gauges in biggest, although our goal continues to be
“Being woman-owned was requested metals. We also started sand blasting and the best.”
M a g n u m and required by some existing and poten- stripping parts in addition to many other Couturier has also been involved with
Powder Coating, Inc. tial customers,” said Couturier. “It was a new accommodations we implemented a number of different organizations
was established in positive business decision, being able to over a few years. Magnum constantly including the Better Business Bureau, GR
Chamber of Commerce, MI Business &
Professional Assoc., MI Retailers Assoc.,
and the National Assoc. of Professional
Women. She continues to lead Magnum
Powder Coating in their reputation in good
quality services and quality parts. They’ve
recently invested in a truck for pick up and
delivery service and in the last 6 months
have designed a company logo which
Couturier hopes will give Magnum’s name
and image more visibility and familiarity.
Successful and
growing Michigan
start-ups have
become something of
a rarity these days,
but that didn’t stop
Lynn Smith from taking hold of an idea
and letting it grow; Smith may be a famil-
iar West Michigan resident well-known
for her senior role in the financial servic-
es industry, but recently she’s become an
inventor too.
“I found myself needing a sturdy,
yet flexible, storage piece,” said Smith,
“and when I wasn’t able to find a product
that fit my particular needs, I decided to
create something myself. The end result
was a prototype of iLean, which is now
the output of world-class design and
engineering talent.”
While Smith’s original prototype was
fashioned out of chopsticks and earrings,
she soon collaborated with Michael
Suman, another notable West Michigan
resident holding 48 patents and known
for his work with the Muskegon and
Grand Rapids Inventors Networks. Using
his engineering and manufacturing
prowess, Smith developed her idea into a
viable product, one that has become a
fast-growing business that could become
a lifestyle hit.
The leaning shelf system, made
entirely in Michigan, offers mobile storage
that is both sophisticated and versatile,
easily adapting to individual space and
storage needs.
Continued on page 10
Indian Trails Celebrates 100 Years 4
With Unbroken Line of Family Leadership
Owosso, MI – Few companies can me what a milestone and achievement innovations like carpeted sidewalls, points around Shiawassee County. Still, it
boast not only of a history that stretches our 100 year anniversary really is." stereo systems that sound like the system remembers its history and carries on its
back an entire century but also 3 gener- Mackay is son-in-law to Bill you have in your living room and video old traditions. Cora Taylor, who ran the
ations worth of family ownership Himburg who joined the company after technology," said Mackay. "We were the company during World War I and into the
through all those years. Indian Trails, returning from active duty in the U.S. first company to put videos in the bus. 30s and was the first woman in the United
one of the leading motor coach compa- Navy in 1945. Himburg - who served Now that it's a standard practice every- States to be issued a chauffeur's license,
nies in the United States, can do just Indian Trails for decades as an operations where, I wish I'd patented the idea! was also a Michigan history buff. She dis-
that. This year, they celebrate their 100th manager, general manager, vice presi- “We've been very proud of some of covered that one of their primary sched-
anniversary right here in Michigan at dent, president and chairman - is himself the things we've pushed the industry to uled routs - Highway 12 - was built over
their company headquarters in Owosso - the nephew of Cora and Wayne Taylor, develop. We want to reflect changes in an old Indian migration route: The Old
the same city of the company's founding the company's founders. This unbroken the motor coach that make it more Indian Trail. This is where the company
way back in 1910. They're been celebrat- chain of family leadership has kept appealing to the American public. When gets its name. After that, Cora began
ing since the start of the year by giving Indian Trails consistently focused on its people think of a charter bus in Europe, researching Indian chiefs native to
away a free charter date to a random cus- goals of providing unparalleled service they may see it as something very glam- Michigan and began a tradition of naming
tomer every month and last September and top-of-the-line quality to its cus- orous, but over here, they don't think of each of the company's coaches after them.
held an open house at their headquarters tomers. Throughout their history, Indian it the same way. In our own small way This tradition continues to this day.
to honor past and present employees, Trails has always tried to keep an over- here in Michigan, we've tried to push the Indian Trails continues to operate as
vendors and customers. riding philosophy of maintaining the fleet industry to enhance the comfort, features one of the highest quality carriers in the
President Gordon Mackay remains in as new a condition as possible. and image of the industry." country. Carrying more than 1,00,000
humble about his company's success. "My father in law had a very strong Indian Trails' latest innovation is the passengers every year, their daily sched-
"Truthfully, I hadn't even been thinking belief in replacing the equipment on a utilization of wireless internet. They were uled routes run throughout Michigan and
about it!" he said. "It was only as we regular basis, being innovative and the first to install wi-fi on some of their into Chicago and Milwaukee. In addition
began to draw closer to our anniversary moving the motor coach industry for- scheduled routs and experiment with the to tour, shuttle and airport transfer, they
function in September that it dawned on ward in a positive way," explains service on their charter busses. It became offer charter service to anywhere in the
Mackay. "We have a fleet replacement extremely popular, particularly with stu- continental US and Canada.
program that's probably second to none dents, and the response was so over- As time moves on, we cannot under-
Business in the industry: All buses in the fleet are whelmingly positive that they've now value the service and commitment to
update ublication
replaced every 5 to 10 years."
This means that not only are the
buses' machinery as up-to-date as possi-
equipped their entire fleet with wi-fi
capability.
The company has definitely come a
quality that a company like Indian Trails
offers. "I see a transformation occurring,"
said Mackay, commenting on his recent
ble, their features are also nudging long way since Wayne and Cora Taylor rotary presentation in Lansing. "For the
Publisher: Gary Kralapp against the edge of modernity. "We've began providing passenger and freight last 30-40 years, people have been mov-
Business Development always been pushing the industry with service from Durand Union Train Depot to ing to the suburbs, and I think soon there
Senior Vice President: Jim Lroy will be a large movement back into the
Senior Vice President: Diane LaPreze cities. Providing mass transportation
services is going to be a key to that tran-
Contributing Writers: Dr. Andrew Racek, sition and becoming less dependent on
Rodney D. Unema, Dr. Diana Twede, foreign oil in general. I think the motor
Raghav Prashant Sundar, Dr. Laura Bix, coach industry stands to really contribute
Coley Dale. in a positive way to changes we need to
see in the way people move about this
country. The automobile will always be
Managing Editor: Carol M. Kralapp here, whether it be gas, electric or some-
Associate Editor: David Calkins thing else. But I think what we need to
Printing/Distribution: News Web Printing do, and what Indian Trails continues to
Accountant: Michael Tawney & Company do every day, is transition the mass
Legal: Miller Canfield Paddock & Stone transportation services in this country to
The monthly published Business Update Inc.® a system people choose to use rather
all rights reserved. No portion can be reproduced than are forced to use."
without the written permission of the publisher.
The management of Business Update Inc.® is not
responsible for the opinions expressed by its writ-
Business
update
ers or editors. Nor is it responsible for any infor-
mation contained on any schedule or calendar. We
invite editorial suggestions, reader participation,
or article submissions. We reserve all rights in
communications sent to our editorial staff as ublication
unconditionally assigned for publication or any
other use Business Update Inc.® in its sole discre-
tion, shall deem appropriate. All submissions are Have your
subjected to our unrestricted right to edit and com-
ment. For further information concerning this pub-
lication, or past issues, please write or call:
own copy
PO Box 541 E-mailed
Byron Center, MI 49315
Phone: (616) 583-1577 monthly
Fax: 888-728-0045
Email: prupdate@businessupdate.com prupdate@businessupdate.com
6
Finance, Legal, Insurance Briefs
Kentwood – Regal Financial Group, Washington, D.C. – The Export-Import
LLC welcomed Steven Steelandt to Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Middletown, CT – Asterisk Financial Grand Rapids – Echelbarger,
their team of independent financial advi- Bank) approved the first transaction Inc., creator of Personal Guarantee Himebaugh, Tamm & Co. PC announced
sors. Steelandt made the transition from under its new Supply-Chain Finance Insurance™, announced that it is now the hiring of Christopher J. Leikert as a
multi-financial securities corporation to Guarantee Program – a 90 percent guar- licensed to do business in Michigan and staff accountant in their tax department.
American portfolios on August 30. antee to support up to $100 million of six other new states: Kansas, Kentucky, Leikert is a recent cum laude graduate
liquidity from Citibank N.A. (Citi) to North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania from Aquinas College.
Grand Rapids – Pondera Advisors, LLC small and medium-sized suppliers of and South Carolina.
announced the addition of Doug Chaffee CNH America LLC, a subsidiary of CNH Grand Rapids – The law firm of Smith
to its growing team of leadership con- Global NV, in Burr Ridge, IL. The new Grand Rapids – Varnum attorney Mary Haughey Rice & Roegge announced
sultants. Doug will be focused on new program is part of President Obama’s Kay Shaver was elected to serve on the that attorney Robert Suarez has joined
business development and consulting. National Export Initiative goal to double board of directors of Michigan Women the firm’s Grand Rapids office.
exports in five years. in Finance for a three-year term.
Grand Rapids – Echelbarger,
Himebaugh, Tamm & Co. PC announced Grand Rapids – Twenty-two attorneys
that David G. Echelbarger, CPA has been from Miller Johnson have been selected
elected as a new member of the Michigan for inclusion in Michigan Super Lawyers
Association of Certified Public 2010 released last September. For the
Accountants (MACPA) board of directors fourth straight year, Jon R. Muth has
for the 2010-2011 season. been the only West Michigan attorney
selected as a member of the state’s Top
Sparta – The board of directors of 10 list. In all, four Miller Johnson attor-
ChoiceOne Financial Services, Inc., neys are in the Michigan Top 100:
and ChoiceOne Bank appointed Jeffrey S. Ammon, David J. Gass, Jon
Roxanne M. Page, CPA to the board of G. March and Jon R. Muth. Carol J.
directors for both entities at their August Karr has been on the Top 50 Women list
26 board meetings. Page is a certified each year since Michigan Super Lawyers
public accountant and partner with inception. In addition, Maxwell N.
Beene Garter, LLP. Barnes was selected as one of the
Michigan Rising Stars. Attorneys select-
Kentwood – Regulus Advisors, LLC is a ed as Super Lawyers 2010 are: T.J.
joint venture between FIG Marketing, Ackert, Jeffrey S. Ammon, Mary V.
headquartered in North Carolina, and Bauman, Frank E. Berrodin, Robert D.
Regal Financial Group. Regulus Brower Jr., James C. Bruinsma,
Advisors has revamped their own Christopher L. Edgar, William H.
Corporate RIA platform, Regal Investment Fallon, David J. Gass, Carol J. Karr, W.
Advisors. RIA currently have the follow- Jack Keiser, Peter J. Kok, Craig H.
ing platforms active and are busy moving Lubben, Jon G. March, Lauretta K.
assets for several advisors to the platform Murphy, Craig A. Mutch, Jon R. Muth,
that works best with their practice: Michael B. Quinn, Brent D. Rector,
Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, Schwab, and Thomas P. Sarb, Michael J. Taylor and
Lockwood/Pershing/BNY Mellon. Thomas R. Wurst.
Lansing – Accident Fund Insurance Grand Rapids – Plante & Moran, PLLC,,
Company of America presented checks announced the curriculum for its second
totaling $5,250 to a variety of charitable annual "Topics 4 the Times" webinar
organizations during the month of series. New this year is the addition of
August 2010: $750 to the Children’s CPE credits for several of the live webi-
Assessment Center in Grand Rapids; nars. Other topics (18 in total) include
$2,500 to End Violent Encounters in health care reform, changes in account-
Lansing; $1,000 to Potter Park ing standards, tax planning and mini-
Zoological Society in Lansing; $1,000 to mization strategies, data security, cloud
Risk Insurance Management Society computing and the advantages of an
(RIMS) in Rochester Hills. internal audit.
Grand Rapids – Smith Haughey Rice & Sparta – Sue Reeder is now an account
Roegge announced that the firm has executive at Ottawa Kent specializing in
been ranked among the top law firms in personal lines insurance out of their
the United States in the inaugural publi- Sparta office. Sue has 20 years of expe-
cation of “Best Law Firms,” published by rience and is licensed for both property
U.S. News & World Report and Best & casualty and life & health insurance.
Lawyers.
7
Finance & Legal Briefs
Grand Rapids – Varnum attorney Mary Saint Joseph – United Federal Credit Grand Rapids – Waddell & Reed Grand Rapids - The Bank of Holland’s
Kay Shaver was elected to serve on the Union celebrated a major milestone as announced that Garry VonMyhr has Grand Rapids office announced that
board of directors of Michigan Women they recently reached the 100,000 mem- joined the firm as a financial advisor in Michael Sytsma has joined the Bank’s
in Finance for a three-year term. ber milestone, the culmination of over the Grand Rapids area. VonMyhr will commercial banking department as rela-
Additionally, Varnum attorney Melissa 60 years of steady growth which has help develop customized financial plans, tionship manager.
Papke has been elected treasurer of the also seen the credit union expand to recommend investment strategies and
Real Estate Section of the Grand Rapids include operations in five states. counsel clients throughout the area. Onekama – The Michigan Association of
Bar Association. Additionally, Varnum Planning has announced that the
attorney April Sawhill has been Grand Rapids – Varnum LLP has Lansing – The Gallagher Law Firm, Onekama Community Master Plan has
appointed to the board of directors of received Metropolitan First Tier rankings PLC announced that Craig S. Gerard has been selected for the annual Daniel
Health Intervention Services. in 16 areas of law and one national been selected for inclusion in the 2010 Burnham Award for a Comprehensive Plan
ranking in the inaugural "Best Law Firm" Michigan Super Lawyers magazine as that advances the science and art of plan-
Grand Rapids - Price, Heneveld, survey recently completed by U.S. News a “Rising Star.” ning that reflects a group achievement.
Cooper, DeWitt & Litton, LLP – Best Lawyers. Varnum was the only
announced with sadness the passing of West Michigan-based firm to receive a
Randall "Randy" G. Litton on August national ranking which came in the area
24, 2010. Litton was best known for his of employment law – management.
intellectual property litigation expertise
and served as a highly successful coun- Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department
selor and litigator for several decades. of Housing and Urban Development
announced a commitment to insure a
Holland – Macatawa Bank Corporation mortgage loan to Hayes Green Beach
announced that Wayne J. Elhart, Memorial Hospital in Charlotte,
Charles C. Geenen and Birgit M. Klohs Michigan. The $36.6 million loan will be
have been elected to the Macatawa Bank used to expand and relocate certain out-
Corporation board of directors. All three patient healthcare services to a new site
currently serve on the board of directors and to refinance $22.6 million of long-
of the corporation’s subsidiary, term debt on the existing 25-bed Critical
Macatawa Bank. Access Hospital. Expanded and relocated
services will include a women’s resource
Grand Rapids – John W. Cummiskey center and a mammography service clinic.
(1917 – 2002) has been chosen posthu- Funds will also be used for the purchase
mously as the 2010 recipient of the of new equipment and related charges.
Founders Award given by the Michigan
State Bar Foundation to honor a Fremont – Fremont Michigan
Michigan lawyer for “exemplifying the InsuraCorp, Inc. now offers one of the
highest traditions of the legal profession most efficient automated interfaces for
and devoted service to the community.” agents in the state, according to a recent
survey by Michigan AGENT magazine.
24 H OUR
she operated as owner and CEO from ees, there are simply more women or
1987-2003. She also served as parts young ladies who are looking at getting
department manager for Freightliner of into corporate wellness than there are
Grand Rapids from 1981-87. men,” she explains. “We’re actually excit-
ed to work with men when we can;
T URN A ROUND
Nawara is involved in several com-
munity organizations, currently serving as Having a male on staff often helps us
a Board member of the Golden K Kiwanis relate better to the men we care for when
Club and the West Michigan Planned we address men’s health issues.”
A NODIZING &
Giving Group. She is a member of the West Ritsema and Kline feel very fortunate
Michigan Estate Planning Council, the and blessed serving as they do and hope
Grand Rapids Economic Club, the Greater to continue expanding their business into
B LACK O XIDING
Lansing Estate Planning Council and the future. “We just got our first client on
Toastmasters. She also has been active in the east side of the state,” notes Ritsema.
the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, “We have clients now in the Traverse City
United Way, the Alliance of Women and Petosky area, Holland, Zeeland,
Entrepreneurs, Quota International and Grand Rapids, Hudsonville… the list goes
on. As we move forward, health care
the Michigan Women’s Foundation.
C ELEBRATING ITS
10T H Y EAR
WITH WOMEN
IN BUSINESS
24/7 Service
48 States Coverage
Same Day Local Pick Up & Delivery Dianne Bernd
Pallet Rates w/next day service to/from greater Chicago Area
Dedicated Fleets - Full Truck Load M ETAL F INISHING T ECHNOLOGY
WBE, Haz-Mat, C-TPAT PIP, CSA, FAST, TSA, A8A Customs Bonded QUALITY & SERVICE IS IN THE FORE FRONT
800-659-3887 OF EVERYTHING WE DO!
www.teddystransport.com 2652 Hoyt St. 231-733-9736
Certified Women’s Business Enterprise 4201 Lincoln Rd Holland MI 49423 Muskegon MI 49444 Fax: 231-739-5856
12
Conginued from page 11 apist, inspired by the recommendations passed away. For the past decade, she of my favorite parts of this job. Everyday
of some of her clients. It's a wonderful has been successfully leading her com- someone new stops in to get something
I thought, 'why can't we have our thing to see." pany through the rough road finished and usually PMF can help them
own mentoring program right here at Michigan's manufacturing industry has out!"
Angel Care for our home health aids?'" Betsy Buist proven to be. Finally, while Buist Boss is pleased
This program also works alongside Boss - President of "Wading through rough economic to be involved in our Women in
AngelCare's relationship with Goodwill Professional Metal waters these past few years has not been Business article here at Business
Industries, allowing some of their aids Finishers easy," she said. "PMF has seen a steady Update, she has a couple admonitions
to work towards and become certified climb in business, but not a great leap. that we might all do well to hear:
nurse assistants. Buist Boss This is probably a good thing though "I wish the industry didn't have to
"I do think that it is great when you grew up with a since we had to scale back operations in emphasize Women in Business," she
have a company that supports bettering father in the metal order to keep afloat. We do a fair says. "I would have hoped by now we
yourself, gaining more knowledge, any- fabrication busi- ammount of work in the furniture had evolved enough to consider us as
thing you can do to better your educa- ness, spending many of her weekends industry which is picking up. We also 'on the same playing field' as the guys.
tion as a person and a caregiver. I think doing shop work at D&M Metal cover the automotive, RV and medical There are so many competent people in
that's very important," said Lovse. "We Products - a business which her broth- accessories industries. All areas seem to business; I wish that 'Good Business
had one employee in particular which, er, Robert Buist, still owns. When her be on an uptick." People' was brought up more."
because of a cultural misunderstanding, family purchased Professional Metal Recently, PMF has been involved It's a valid point, to be sure. What
was not doing very well in our organi- Finishers in 1986, she was able to try with ArtPrize, providing finishing work do you think? Send your opinions,
zation. We worked with the Women's her hand at the finishing side of the for several contest projects. "I always comments and letters to the editor: edi-
Resource Center and sent some of our industry as well, and through the expe- enjoy meeting the artists and working tor@businessupdate.com
own aids along with her on jobs to help rience she gained working alongside of with color, trying to match their imagi-
her in areas of misunderstanding. She her father, she gained the confidence nations," said Buist-Boss. "I love art and
has now continued in her education and and skills to run Professional Metal the attention this has brought to our
is considering becoming a physical ther- Finishers (PMF) on her own when he city. "Meeting new people is always one
616.365.2620
Fax 616.361.6048
Celebrating
Women In Business
Quality Service - Fast Turnaround
2 4 7 4 Tu r n e r N W S u i t e F • Wa l k e r, M I 49544
13
Meetings, Travel & Lodging Briefs
East Lansing – Twenty-five wine experts Battle Creek – Just three-quarters of Grand Rapids – Craft-Revival, a new Grand Rapids – Sixteen members of
gathered August 3 in East Lansing for way through 2010 and Arcadia Ales in jewelry store featuring custom-designed Michigan Lake to Lake Bed and
the 33rd annual Michigan Wine and Battle Creek is reporting record jewelry and metal work, opened its doors Breakfast Association are among 20
Spirits Competition. Forty-four of the growth, a trend that is expected to in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids Michigan inns committed to providing
state's 73 wineries entered a record 399 increase throughout the year. on the ground floor of the Tannery Row free lodging and breakfast to current and
wines for this year's competition, which According to VP of sales and marketing building. Industry veterans Jayson Case former military personnel on the eve of
is open only to wines produced from Rick Suarez, numbers are up 55% in and his father Brandon decided to open Veterans Day (November 10), part of a
Michigan grapes and other fruit. From a Michigan and 39% collectively in nine the store after they began to notice a sig- continent-wide movement with more
group of 52 gold medal winners, judges other states. That number will only nificant paradigm shift in the jewelry than 275 inns in 40 states and Canada.
awarded the top "Best of Class" awards continue to rise as Arcadia adds two industry with more of a focus on mean- To date, Lake to Lake-member "Thank
to: (Dry White) Black Star Farms - new 40-barrel fermenters to its current ing and value-added benefits. You Veterans" participants are:
2009 Arcturos Pinot Gris; (Dry Red) production line. Adventure Inn (North Lakeport), Castle
Bowers Harbor Vineyards - 2007 Chesaning – The International in the Country (Allegan), Dewey Lake
Cabernet Franc, Erica Vineyard; (Semi- DeWitt – Hotel guests across the state Festivals & Events Association paid Manor (Brooklyn), The Gables B&B
Dry White) Black Star Farms - 2009 will be offered free locally-grown tribute to the Party at MI Place cam- (Cheboygan), Garden Grove B&B
Arcturos Riesling; (Semi-Dry Red) apples at check in, courtesy of the paign produced by Michigan Festivals (Union Pier), Hall Creek B&B
Lawton Ridge Winery - AZO; Michigan Apple Committee (MAC) & Events Association of Chesaning, (Interlochen), Inn at the Park (South
(Sparkling Wine) Black Star Farms - and the 900 growers the organization Michigan during the IFEA/Haas & Haven), Kalamazoo House
2008 Sparkling Wine; (Dessert Wine) represents. A basket of fresh apples Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Ceremony, (Kalamazoo), Martha's Vineyard (South
Fenn Valley Vineyards - 2008 "42" Ice along with copies of the 2010 Michigan bestowing on it a Gold Pinnacle Award Haven), Munro House (Jonesville),
Wine; (Fruit Wine) Uncle John's Fruit Farm Market & Agricultural Tourism in the “Best New Promotion” category Parish House Inn (Ypsilanti),
House Winery - Franc N Cherry; (Rose) Directory will be delivered later this and also a second Gold Pinnacle Award Prairieside Suites Luxury B&B
Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery - month to more than 400 lodging facili- in the “Most Creative/Effective News (Grandville), The Sheridan House
2009 Blanc de Pinot Noir. ties across the state as part of the 5th Stunt” category for their Party at MI (Fremont), The State Street Inn (Harbor
annual "Check In To Michigan Apples" - Place banner being on board NASA Beach), Terrace Inn (Petoskey), and
Paw Paw – St. Julian Winery’s Simply a MAC promotion offered at no charge Space Shuttle Atlantis mission STS-132 White Swan Inn (Whitehall).
Pink was recently named “Rose of the to lodging facilities with a minimum of this past May.
Year” at the Indy International Wine 20 rooms. Grand Rapids – The Prince Conference
Competition, held in early August in Grand Rapids – The new green and blue Center (PCC) at Calvin College has
West Lafayette, IN. Plainwell – Communities and individuals Holiday Inn sign introduced in 2007 will earned Green Lodging Michigan Steward
from across the state were honored last now light the way for visitors to the certification from the Michigan
Chicago, IL – Don Armock, a partner in September at the 2010 Michigan Holiday Inn Express Grand Rapids Department of Energy, Labor and
Sparta, MI-based Riveridge Produce Downtown Conference awards luncheon North. The new sign is the seal of Economic Growth. The PCC has imple-
Marketing Inc., is the winner of The at the Doubletree Hotel in downtown approval that this hotel exemplifies the mented several environmental initiatives
Packer's 2010 Apple Man of the Year Bay City. The City of Plainwell was the standards of the $1 billion Holiday Inn at their facility, including a linen and
award, presented by Tom Karst, The recipient of the "Facade Rehabilitation brand family re-launch program estab- towel reuse program, low flow fixtures to
Packer's national editor. Armock won Award-Small Community" for its recent lished to create a more contemporary conserve water and a computerized
the award last August at the Vienna, VA- enhancement to 111 N. Main Street brand image, increase quality and drive energy management system with pro-
based U.S. Apple Association’s Apple which was made possible through a consistency. Holiday Inn Express Grand grammable thermostats for common
Crop Outlook & Marketing Conference. Michigan State Housing Authority Rapids North is the second in Grand areas and conference rooms.
grant and private investment partners. Rapids and among the first hotels in the
Grand Rapids – The Holiday Inn-Grand Other recipients of awards include: world to receive the sign.
Rapids Downtown was recently awarded Green Project-Large Scale - Thirty
Three Diamond status by AAA demon- Eight, Locus Development (Grand
strating the hotel’s commitment to dis- Rapids); Green Project-Small Scale -
tinguished style and marked upgrades in Kalamazoo Window Rehabilitation
the quality of physical attributes, ameni- Workshops; Innovation-Small Scale -
ties, and level of comfort provided. Cops & Doughnuts (Clare); Innovation-
Large Scale - ArtPrize (Grand Rapids);
Kalamazoo – Imperial Beverage of Living Downtown - 101 South Division
Kalamazoo was named a 2010 Craft Loft Apartments, Brookstone Capital
Beer Distributor of the Year Award final- LLC (Grand Rapids). Awards given by
ist. The Fourth Annual Craft Beer the Michigan Economic Development
Distributor of the Year Award recognizes Corporation's Community Assistance
an exceptional American beer distributor Team include: Brownfield Project of the
who actively markets, sells and pro- Year (Pop. over 50,000) - Thirty Eight,
motes craft beer. Awarding parties are Locus Development (Grand Rapids);
The National Beer Wholesalers Brownfield Project of the Year (Pop.
Association and the Brewers under 50,000) - One Water, Catt
Association, and the honor is bestowed Development (Boyne City); Local
each year during the Great American Partner - Jeff Radcliffe, Otsego County
Beer Festival in Denver, CO. Economic Alliance.
14
Education Briefs
Grand Rapids – Wedgwood Christian Kalamazoo – Western Michigan Kalamazoo – Dr. Michael J. Barcelona, Muskegon – Baker College of Muskegon
Services announced the creation of a University's enrollment surged to professor of chemistry and a veteran officials report that all 54 of its 2008,
second specialized school for at-risk 25,045 - a nearly 2 percent increase over researcher has been named Western 2009 and 2010 radiologic technology
youth: Hope Academy of West last year's figure. Michigan University's 2010 associate degree program graduates
Michigan. This new general K-12 char- Distinguished Faculty Scholar. This have passed the American Registry of
ter school will open for the 2011-12 Allendale – Grand Valley State honor is the highest accolade awarded to Radiologic Technologists certification
school year at the site of the former St. University officials and community a WMU faculty member and carries with examination on the first attempt. The
Francis Catholic School, a 32,000- leaders broke ground and celebrated the it a $2,000 cash prize. national pass rate averages for 2008 and
square-foot building located at 250 start of construction on the new Mary 2009 were 91 percent and 91.4 percent,
Brown St. SE. Idema Pew Library Learning and Grand Rapids – Cooley Law School will respectively.
Information Commons in late September. host open houses for prospective stu-
Muskegon – Baker College of Muskegon The Pew Library will provide approxi- dents on four Thursdays in October. The Lansing – Small Business Association
is offering cooking classes to the gener- mately 1,500 seats for student study, 20 events will be held 4-7 p.m. on all four of Michigan is kicking off its Business
al public. All classes will be held at the group study rooms, and offices and sup- campuses: Auburn Hills (2630 Growth Strategies Series in partnership
Culinary Institute of Michigan at port areas for faculty and staff members. Featherstone Road) on Oct. 7, Lansing with Davenport University on Oct. 14,
Baker College of Muskegon. There will be room for 150,000 books on (300 S. Capitol) on Oct. 14, Grand 2010. Through an online virtual class-
open shelves and 600,000 books in an Rapids (111 Commerce Ave., SW) on room, business owners from across
Grand Rapids – Kendall College of Art automated storage/retrieval system. It Oct. 21 and Ann Arbor (3475 Plymouth Michigan will be able to participate in
and Design of Ferris State University, will replace the Zumberge Library on the Road) on Oct. 28. The open houses are “Cultivating GREAT Customer Service,”
announced that the college has become Allendale Campus that was built in 1969 free and include tours, opportunities to a session helping organizations identify
the home of a library of new, innovative for a projected student body of 5,000; meet staff, faculty and students, mock and deliver the very best experiences for
and sustainable materials from New Today, there are 24,500 students classes and special sessions for accepted their customers.
York City-based Material ConneXion, a enrolled. In February, Grand Valley offi- students and honors scholars.
trusted materials consultant and cials decided to go forward with the Pew
Materials Library with over 5,000 of the Library without waiting for state fund-
latest advancements for architecture and ing. More than 530 donors have con-
design, founded by George M.
Beylerian, CEO.
tributed nearly $20.5 million to the proj-
ect, and there is still $4.5 million to
MEDA Releases
Muskegon – Baker College of Muskegon
raise. Construction will begin in earnest
this spring and the library is expected to
Recommendations
regents have appointed Lee Coggin, JD, be completed in 2013. Continued from page 9 that trigger economic benefits upon
as Muskegon campus president. He suc- reaching certain thresholds of job cre-
ceeds Mary Ann Herbst, Ph.D., who Allendale – Six Grand Valley State Incentives ation activities. They also recommend
retired on Aug. 31, 2010, after a 28-year University students have received The incentives debate is a poster designing a system that “frontloads”
Baker College career. Coggin was most scholarships through a fund that is com- child for the gap between theory and benefits early in the investment and
recently vice president for academics at pletely supported by their peers – the practice. Study after academic study has development process, as incentives do
Baker’s Muskegon campus. 2010 Student Legacy Scholarship. Each concluded that incentives are not neces- not reflect net present value.
student will receive a $500 scholarship. sary and yet, economic development prac- As Michigan does not derive full
Grand Rapids – The Grand Rapids cam- titioners are confronted with the need for leverage from its current array of incen-
pus of Sanford-Brown officially became Grand Rapids – The First-Time-In-Any- competitive incentives every day. MEDA tives, MEDA strongly advises fostering
Sanford-Brown College, reflecting the College and transfer student populations advocates a new rationale and strategy the sale of research and development tax
State of Michigan’s recent decision to remained steady at Calvin for the third for the accountable use of incentives. credits, MEGA tax credits and creating
give the campus authority to confer straight year. 935 first-time students Those critical of incentives believe credit enhancements for Tax Increment
associate degrees in addition to the cur- joined 100 transfer students to make up that lower taxes and lower regulatory Financing Authorities.
rent diplomas offered. the 2010-2011 entering class of 1,035. activity would improve the business cli- Other Issues
mate to the extent that incentives would MEDA members are concerned that
Million in Research Grants shown that states with far lower tax
rates and far less regulation still utilize
incentives as part of their respective job
conflict-ridden approaches to regional
economic development. MEDA members
have consistently articulated the need for
Muskegon – Grand Valley State onboard education and outreach (Janet retention and attraction strategies. fast, simple and predictable approaches
University’s Annis Water Resources Vail, associate professor and research sci- Incentives are not assisting small to economic development strategies at
Institute (AWRI) has received nearly $1.4 entist) businesses and entrepreneurs. MEDA the local level.
million in grant funding from the • $247,212 Studies to support
contends that there are ways to change Michigan economic development
Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Ruddiman Creek implementation-ready
incentives policy to help smaller busi- programming needs a strategy for
Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). (Alan Steinman, director of the Annis
nesses and start-ups. recruiting the talented and best educated
The projects include: Water Resources Institute)
Many people (developers notwith- people in the world as there is concern
• $568,449 Observatory for ecosys- • $232,910 Implementing Great
standing) believe there is a lack of that far too little effort is expended upon
tem changes in Muskegon Lake (Bopi Lakes coastal wetland monitoring (Carl
accountability in the process of awarding the recruiting of immigrants, foreign stu-
Biddanda, associate professor of environ- Ruetz, associate professor of environmen-
and monitoring incentives. MEDA advo- dents and foreign entrepreneurs.
mental biology) tal biology; Alan Steinman, director of
cates for more self-regulating incentives
• $291,721 Coordinated lake-specific AWRI).
15
Dental & Health Care Professionals
Take Holistic Approach to Patient Care
The importance disease is important so it can be man- diseases, osteoporosis and pregnancy remain open between dentist and physi-
of preventative den- aged and treated. Symptoms we com- complications. Some cardiologists are cian to help facilitate patient treatment.
tal care to overall monly look for are bleeding gums when mandating that their patients see their By removing this responsibility from the
health is a message touched or brushed, bad breath, red hue, dentists as part of their regimen of treat- patient, the likelihood increases that
that has been widely presence of pus and loose or missing ment. Dr. Christopher Kazor of appropriate follow-up will occur. A sys-
spread through the teeth. Progressive Periodontics P.C. in Lansing tematic approach to screening and com-
years to the general Oral health care professionals may shares that several recent studies have munication with the physician’s office is
public by the find themselves in an opportune position also identified untreated gum disease as necessary to help eliminate oral health
American Dental to enhance the well-being of their a factor in the development of risk from the equation.
Dr. Andrew Racek Association, dental patients. General dentists consult regu- Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Oral health screening
professionals and larly with periodontists on advanced “Untreated gum disease has long Primary physicians and specialists
others. What is unclear is how effective- cases of gum disease in their patients. been recognized in the orthopedic field such as cardiologists, gynecologists, and
ly this message has reached the mass However, there is a need for greater col- as a likely contributor to prosthesis fail- oncologists can receive training in oral
audience. The interaction between dental laboration between dentists and physi- ure,” says Dr. Kazor. “Now I'm seeing health screening. A simple exam to
care and systemic health may pose seri- cians in early detection of gum disease. more referrals from other surgical spe- screen for gum disease and tooth decay
ous implications on a person’s well- This collaboration can greatly improve cialists and general physicians seeking exists called the Medical-Periodontal
being particularly during a tough eco- the overall health of their patients, par- to clear patients' oral health prior to sur- Risk Assessment available to physicians
nomic time when dental insurance cov- ticularly in the elderly and the poor. gery. Medial professionals are acknowl- and dentists.
erage may be limited. Minimal dental Mission Integration at Trinity edging the connection between the A greater commitment among
health benefits for those on Medicaid Health supports community health pro- mouth and the rest of the body. They are health care professionals to encourage
and Medicare is also an issue. grams provided by various hospitals and taking a much more holistic approach to patients to visit their dentists regularly
Underprivileged, unemployed and elder- health care facilities. They serve under- treating chronic and acute diseases." will help establish the physician-dentist
ly people may not be able to engage in privileged people without insurance who So how can dental and health care relationship earlier in the process.
routine dental check-ups. As a result, cannot spare disposable income on den- professionals in our community collabo- Dentists can facilitate the relationship
there are more visits to the emergency tal care expenses. Daniel Dwyer, Senior rate more closely for the benefit of peo- with their patients’ physicians immedi-
room for dental related issues which Vice President, is concerned that the ple’s long-term well-being? ately when early signs of a systemic dis-
contribute to escalated healthcare costs. health care reform bill hasn't paid Referral network ease are detected in the mouth. The
Less insurance coverage, less disposable enough attention to oral health. Dentists and physicians can create a value of dental and health care profes-
income and poor dental hygiene habits “One of the most striking gaps in more formal referral network by proac- sionals collaborating holistically on
are a recipe for gum disease, tooth decay health care with profoundly disturbing tively connecting to one another and patient care will help broaden the reach
and related systemic issues. consequences for our patients and fami- establishing a relationship much like a of this important message: Poor dental
Gum disease, or gingivitis, is a big lies is limited access to dental care,” says general practitioner engages with a spe- care has serious implications on overall
problem in our society and affects 75% of Daniel. “Our patients live in chronic pain cialist. More dentists should discuss risk long-term health.
all adults in the U.S. This chronic inflam- with other chronic illnesses exacerbated factors and signs of oral disease with
matory state can cause and exacerbate by poor dental health. You can take one physicians. Conversely, physicians should Dr. Andrew Racek DDS, owner of
many systemic health issues. It allows look at someone with poor oral condition ask patients if they are regularly visiting a Dental Group West, has been a practicing
bacteria to enter your bloodstream and and predict fairly accurately that they dentist and, if not, urge them to do so. dentist in Grand Rapids for many years.
causes problems in other areas of your have additional health problems.” Communication He studied under some of the most promi-
body. The first sign of a disease can It is now well documented that Dentists can communicate with nent dental professionals at the
appear in your mouth. Unfortunately, untreated gum disease contributes to an physicians directly when detecting early University of Michigan.
gum disease does not hurt until it is well increased risk of cardiovascular disease signs of potential health risks. This
advanced. Detecting early signs of the (stroke and heart disease), respiratory channel of communication should
Grand Rapids – For the third year in a Muskegon – The Muskegon Community
row, Grand Valley Health Plan (GVHP) Health Project (MCHP), a nationally rec-
ranks as the highest health plan in ognized nonprofit to improve health care
Michigan and among the top ten health delivery and expand access to care, has
plans in the United States by the been acquired by Mercy Health Partners
National Committee for Quality under a joint agreement with its parent
Assurance. The 2010-11 National rank- company Trinity Health Corporation.
ing places GVHP as number six out of 300 Long recognized as a national model, the
private health plans. Health Project has served the West
Michigan lakeshore community in assist-
Grand Rapids – Spectrum Health is cele- ing uninsured and underinsured people
brating the completion of the two year $98 with health care needs. In its new capaci-
million Blodgett Hospital expansion and ty, the Health Project will now serve as
renovation project. A 158,000 sq. ft. four- the external Community Benefit program
story patient care addition was construct- arm of Mercy Health Partners and as a
ed adjacent to the existing hospital facing national Community Benefit model and
Wealthy Street. It will officially open to technical assistance source for Trinity
patients on October 10. The project Health Corporation. Based in Novi
involved extensive remodeling and reno- Michigan, Trinity Health is the fourth
vation throughout and includes 132 pri- largest Catholic health system in the
vate rooms in the new addition along with United States.
8 new operating rooms, a 36-bed post-
anesthesia care unit or PACU, a complete Allegan – Allegan General Hospital has
overhaul of infrastructure systems and been selected as one of the country’s Best
improved parking areas. Places to Work in Healthcare for 2010 by
Modern Healthcare magazine.
17
Pennant Health Alliance Formed
to Support Local Independent Providers
Grand Rapids – In a move designed Pennant Health is backed by the community hospitals in the region a executive for Trinity Health. “We know
to strengthen independent community substantial resources and community chance to alleviate the operational how hard it can be for smaller hospitals to
hospitals and physician practices, Metro hospital operations knowledge of Trinity demands of back-office services by compete effectively. Trinity Health’s track
Health, Trinity Health and University of Health, the nation’s 10th largest health accessing the scale and benefits of our record in developing successful rural
Michigan Health System have joined to system, and the University of Michigan larger network,” said Roger Spoelman, health networks demonstrates our ability
launch Pennant Health Alliance. Health System. president and CEO of Mercy Health to assist communities while respecting
The new support-services network “Pennant Health Alliance allows Partners and West Michigan regional local independence.”
was unveiled this morning by the sponsor-
ing organizations. The alliance initially will
offer clinical support and administrative
services in four key areas: physician align-
ment and recruitment, health information
technology, revenue cycle management
and group purchasing. Other customized
services, such as quality consulting and
performance reporting, will be available on
an as-requested basis.
The announcement represents the
culmination of months of discussion
geared toward offering independent com-
munity providers a new option for busi-
ness and clinical support in the region.
The final approval was received just days
ago, with the unanimous vote of the
University of Michigan Health
Corporation board.
Mike Faas, president and CEO of
Metro Health, will serve as Chief
Executive Officer for Pennant Health
Alliance. The organization is now intro-
ducing itself to the region and is actively
collaborating with providers seeking a
network model focused on strengthening
local health care while supporting inde-
pendence.
“We firmly believe that the best
health care starts local and stays local,”
Faas said. “Pennant Health Alliance offers
significant operational, quality and finan-
cial benefits without loss of control or
ownership. We feel that Pennant Health
Alliance will resonate with doctors and
hospitals who want to practice good med-
icine on their own terms.”
Pennant Health Alliance presents a
unique model that independent hospital
leaders and physicians have helped to
craft through conversations and feedback,
one that offers significant enhancements
to existing provider networks.
Amid national health care reform
and the region’s aging population,
Pennant Health Alliance will work to
increase patient access to local primary
and specialty care while helping to
improve the quality of health care and
reduce operating and technology costs for
hospitals and physician practices.
Unmatched skill and scale will be lever-
aged to deliver services, and the alliance’s
key differentiator will be an ability to cus-
tomize local solutions.
Corporate Information 18
Grand Rapids – Senior Neighbors, Inc., Grand Rapids – The Center for Middlebury, VT and Midway, UT – Lansing – The Small Business
a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, has Community Leadership, the communi- eDOC Innovations has recently com- Association of Michigan has surpassed
moved their large benefit event Twilight ty leadership program of the Grand pleted a certification with DocuSign for 10,000 members. It’s an all-time mem-
Shines to the Grand Rapids Public Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, seamless integration between the bership high for the statewide organiza-
Museum at the same date and time: announced the addition of Lizzie DocuSign platform and eDOC's tion and represents a doubling of mem-
November 9 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Williams to its staff as marketing coor- DocLogic and idocVAULT solutions. bership in less than two years.
Ralph Hauenstein, 98, will be honored dinator. eDOC's powerful automated loan pro-
with the third annual Twilight Shining cessing and packaging system now St. Joseph – Williamson Staffing
Star Award for his quiet and generous Grand Rapids – Bonnie Nawara, a allows credit unions to integrate branch Services, Inc. of Kentwood announced
dedication to his community. Grand Rapids native and former planned and online closings with effective elec- that Sergey Zybin and Jamie
giving director for the American Cancer tronic package processing. Huddleston have been selected as
Grand Rapids – The Right Place, Inc. Society, has been named CEO of Grand Staffing Employees of the Year.
received an Excellence in Economic Rapids Opportunities for Women by Lansing – The Small Business Williamson Staffing Services, Inc. joined
Development Award for their West the organization’s board of directors. Association of Michigan (SBAM) was staffing companies across the country in
Michigan Automotive Summit in the cat- recognized with two significant awards celebrating National Staffing Employee
egory of Special Events for communities Grand Rapids – James P. White, presi- at the Michigan Society of Association Week, Sept. 13–19, established by the
with populations of 200,000 – 500,000 dent and CEO of White Development, Executives (MSAE) 9th Annual American Staffing Association to pay
from the International Economic Inc., has been inducted as the 2010- Diamond Awards Banquet, held in late tribute to the million Americans who are
Development Council (IEDC). The 2011 president of The Rotary Club of September at The Townsend Hotel in employed by staffing firms every day.
honor was presented at an awards cere- Grand Rapids. Birmingham. Nearly 200 members and
mony during the IEDC Annual guests attended the event, designed to Jenison – Family Hope Foundation has
Conference in Columbus, Ohio. Grand Rapids/Lansing – On National recognize excellence and innovation in awarded grants to 13 children with spe-
PCC (Postal Customer Council) Day, associations. Rob Fowler, SBAM’s pres- cial needs and their families in the West
Saginaw – This year, the American September 15, Theresa Peterlein of ident and CEO, was presented with the Michigan community. These grants will
Heart Association celebrates the 50th Presort Services Inc. Grand Chairman’s Gavel Award, a special honor be used to provide the children with spe-
Year of CPR. This lifesaving skill for vic- Rapids/Lansing was awarded the PCC chosen by the MSAE’s past chairman. cial needs critical therapy that ordinary
tims of sudden cardiac arrest is known Leadership Award, PCC Industry recognizing individuals who have done insurance will not cover. The grants pro-
collectively as Cardio Pulmonary Member of the Year for 2010 by the the most to advance the goals and aspi- vide up to $1,000 of therapy to each
Resuscitation and celebrated its 50th United States Postal Service. rations of the organization’s strategic recipient.
birthday on September 16. Less than initiatives over the past year. SBAM also
one-third of out-of-hospital sudden car- Mobile, AL – Mark Bohdanyk, director won a First Place Diamond Award for its Grand Rapids – Springthrough, a lead-
diac arrest victims receive bystander of business development for CU*South, website (www.sbam.org) redesign, ing software and IT solutions company
CPR. The most effective rate for chest has earned CUNA's Certified Credit which increased membership and and its affiliate ieQuery, LLC, unveiled
compressions is 100 compressions per Union Executive designation from improved member engagement. ieQuery Dashboard software - a new
minute – the same rhythm as the beat of CUNA Management School. software product that provides law firms
the BeeGee’s song, “Stayin’ Alive.” Grand Rapids - The Wyoming with updated report generation and
Grand Rapids – The Grand Rapids Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce dashboard tools to augment time and
Grand Rapids – The Center for Griffins announced the hiring of Kelli announced that Ken Malik has been billing management databases used by
Community Leadership, the communi- Bytwork as community relations and appointed as the new president/CEO. firms across the country.
ty leadership program of the Grand corporate sales assistant. Malik has over 30 years of business
Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, experience with manufacturing and Grand Rapids – Newly formed Career
welcomes four new members to its board Zeeland – ISD Corporation, a leading service companies in consumer electron- Transitions Center West Michigan
of directors: Jen Crowley, owner of The provider of secure payment management ics, office equipment, contract office fur- announced Russ Gardner as the organi-
Highland Group; Kyle Ray, lead pastor software for merchants, announced the niture and industrial distribution. zation’s first executive director.
at Kentwood Community Church; Bob celebration of its 25th anniversary as a
Roth, president & CEO of RoMan leader in the payment software industry.
Manufacturing; and Steve Faber, exec-
utive director of Friends of Grand Battle Creek – The Japan-America
Rapids Parks. Each will serve a three- Society of West Michigan entered its
year term. 11th year with a new executive director,
Tracy Miller. After graduating Michigan
Grand Rapids – Advantage Sign State University with a BA in
Supply, Inc. announced the addition of Management and an Asian Studies cer-
the HP Designjet L25500 printer to its tificate, Miller spent a decade living,
wide format product line. Ideal for both working, studying and raising her
indoor and outdoor applications, the young family in Tokyo.
L25500 uses innovative latex printing
technology for vivid durable prints. Grand Rapids – CU*Answers has recent-
ly announced the next collaborative
Jackson – Kentwood Office Furniture marketing contest in its series of
announced that Heather Sliker has CU*Drive campaigns which will promote
joined as a designer in the Jackson, EasyPay Online Bill Pay. The contest
Michigan office. Katie Koster also joined offers the chance to win a Sony Bravia
Kentwood Office Furniture as a sales 32” LCD HDTV for enrolling in EasyPay
administrator in the Grand Rapids office. through It’s Me 247 online banking.
19
Just A Survey, Please
I just need a first section lists the minimum require- the certification to complete the survey geous to work with a real estate agent
survey; Why are you ments and information that must be map. Often the buyer’s and seller’s or attorney for the details of the survey
asking me all these shown on the survey to be acceptable in attorneys, real estate agents and the title and title work. It is also important to
questions?! both completeness and accuracy. The company review the survey. During this establish a good working relationship
In today’s com- second section (“Table A”) lists the process, it is common for some revi- with a surveyor who will provide a
mercial real estate optional survey responsibilities and sions, additions or deletions to be made quality job at a fair price. Standardized
market, careful specifications. With these optional to the survey prior to the final closing on requirements and professional relation-
planning must be items, the survey may be “customized” the property. ships will ensure a win-win situation
followed in order to to meet the specific needs of both the My experience over the years has for all parties involved in commercial
Rodney D. Unema
complete a success- buyer and the seller. A few examples of convinced me that the “ALTA/ACSM real estate surveys.
ful transaction. One “Table A” items are: flood zone infor- Land Title Survey” is the right tool for
of the critical steps in preparing for a mation, existing ground contours or most commercial and industrial proper-
transaction is obtaining a current sur- utilities serving the property. A com- ty transactions. It is nationally recog- Rod Unema is survey department
vey of the property. In my career as a plete list of the minimum and optional nized and accepted by lending institu- manager at Exxel Engineering, Inc. in
professional land surveyor over the past requirements can be found on the ALTA tions and title companies. The mini- Grand Rapids, MI and can be reached
twenty years, the requirements for a website (www.alta.org). mum standard requirements provide a by phone at (616) 531-3660. He has
commercial property survey have Since the majority of commercial or consistent and dependable survey, a B.S. in Land Surveying from Michigan
evolved from a relatively simple and industrial real estate transactions will while the optional “Table A” items Technological University and is licensed
sometimes vague standard to a highly require this type of survey, contact a allow the survey to be customized to in Michigan, Alaska and New Mexico.
detailed, nationally standardized check- professional surveyor and specifically meet the needs of the entities involved
list. The most widely used and recog- request an “ALTA/ACSM Land Title in the transaction. Commercial real
nized survey for commercial property is Survey.” When ordering the survey, the estate transactions and surveys can be
the “ALTA/ACSM Land Title Survey.” By following information should be fur- complicated; Therefore, it is advanta-
definition, this is a survey prepared in nished to the surveyor:
accordance with the standards and • The legal description of the prop-
requirements jointly developed and erty (from a deed or title commitment)
adopted by the American Land Title • A copy of the title commitment, if
Association (ALTA) and the American available, or authorization to order from
Congress of Surveying and Mapping the title company
(ACSM). • The optional “Table A” items to
The necessity for standardized sur- be included in the survey
vey requirements originated as title • Any specific certification lan-
insurance companies required that in guage and/or requirements, as many
order to insure title to land without lenders and national chain businesses
exceptions, certain information must be have their own requirements in addition
shown on the survey map. In order to to the minimum ALTA standards.
meet the title companies’ requirements, Once the surveyor has this infor-
surveyors must be furnished with spe- mation, an accurate estimate of cost
cific information such as deeds of record and time of completion can be prepared.
and recorded easement documents. The Every property is unique and the cost
two organizations (ALTA and ACSM) and timing of a survey will vary based
formed a joint committee to prepare a on the acreage of the property, the
list of standards that were agreeable to existing improvements, the survey
both and provided the property owners requirements and weather conditions.
with a consistent and quality survey. An ALTA survey can cost $1,000 to
The first Standard Requirements were $50,000 with a time of completion of
published in 1986 and have been one week to months.
updated several times with the most After obtaining authorization to
current being the 2005 Standards. provide the survey, the surveyor will
The current published Standards proceed with the necessary research,
are separated into two sections. The field work, drafting and preparation of
J
Leasing and Finance Association’s considerable improvement when com-
(ELFA) Monthly Leasing and Finance
Index (MLFI-25), which reports econom-
pared to the same period in 2009.
The percentage of credit approvals
J ack S nyder I nc M
25 years & over 400 M&A Transactions.
S &
ic activity for the $518 billion equipment increased to 73 percent in August,
finance sector, showed overall new busi- matching the highest approval ratio since Specializing in small manufacturing,
ness volume for August increased 16 September 2008. Sixty-eight percent of
distributors and service business.
I A
percent when compared to the same peri- participating organizations reported sub-
od in 2009. When compared to the prior
month however, the MLFI-25 reported
mitting more transactions for approval
during the month. Finally, total head-
616-889-8974
new business volume declined from $5.6 count for equipment finance companies
M A. T
billion to $4.3 billion. This drop follows increased during the July-August period.
two consecutive months of growth. Supplemental data shows that trucking
Credit quality is mixed as well. and construction assets lead the under- ICHAEL AWNEY
Receivables over 30 days increased to performing sectors. INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
4.3 percent, up from 3.5 percent in the The Equipment Leasing & Finance & COMPANY, P.C.
prior month, but improved when com- Foundation's Monthly Confidence Index Professional services for your industrial and personal needs.
pared to the year-earlier period (5.0%). (MCI-EFI) for September is 56.9, down • Accounting • Payroll • Tax •
Charge-offs fell for the second consecu- from 58.2 in August. Call us today for courteous, dependable, and rapid assistance
tive month, from 1.5 percent in July to (616) 456-4700
Mission Possible: Technology Advances Spur 27
Security and Safety Revolution
Grandville – As businesses, schools Business Contingency Planning Convergence and Consumption Preserving Existing Investments
and government offices search for solu- From natural disasters to disgrun- Similarly IP-based systems allow for Even better news is that adopting
tions to public safety and building secu- tled employees, growing numbers of a convergence between physical security an IP-based approach does not require
rity, a revolution is taking place with businesses have to plan for the unex- and building facilities systems. For exam- the purchase of all new equipment.
security equipment and systems. With pected. If a crisis occurs at one location, ple, failed door access control or a detect- Instead, customers can mix and match
the latest advances in digital technology, whether it is across town or across the ed gas leak affects both areas of security. any open standards-based equipment:
business and public sector organizations world, the ability to monitor alarms, The ability for both teams to access each IP-based video surveillance systems
can implement security and building video surveillance cameras and sensors other's systems is often advantageous, work with old and new analog and net-
management solutions that conjure up while managing building access control such as when building systems need to be work cameras from any vendor.
images of the latest spy thriller. Even and controlling IP-connected building shut down in the event of a chemical leak “This is an industry that keeps its
better, the new age digital security plat- systems such as HVAC systems, lighting or natural disaster. secrets well,” said Midstate’s
forms offer the promise of cost savings and elevators is crucial. IP-based building control systems VandeGutche. “But word needs to get
and substantial reductions in energy Enhanced Collaboration can also save substantial amounts of out: Digital systems can breathe new life
usage, often while redeploying the com- Today, most enterprise safety and money by effectively managing energy into legacy systems which makes them
ponents of existing systems. security groups need to go through a consumption in real time. This enables even more cost effective.
“From the safety of employees and dispatcher to communicate with first organizations to identify anomalies that “It may be hard to put a price on
customers, to loss prevention and crisis responders because they use incompati- can indicate failed equipment. Similarly, the safety and security of your employ-
management, most business recognize ble radios. With an IP-based, interoper- organizations can participate in their ees and business, but IP-based security
that effective security and building man- able communications system, internal utility's demand-response program, technology makes it easy to justify the
agement measures are a cost of doing safety and security personnel can com- which provides financial incentives to expense of preventing the unexpected
business today,” said Kevin municate directly with executives and reduce consumption on high-demand while it simultaneously increases opera-
VandeGuche, director of business devel- first responders using any communica- days. These systems can automatically tion efficiency.”
opment for Midstate Security. “Our chal- tions device including any type of radio, adjust building temperatures seamlessly.
lenge is to show the efficiencies that can phone or even a laptop with the appro-
be achieved—especially when budgets priate software. If one site's network
are tight—using these cutting edge digi- goes down entirely, a remote team can
tal systems.” quickly reroute phone calls destined to
For anyone who goes to work in a
modern office building, running an ID
the affected site to ensure continuity.
Incident Detection and Response
Cof fee of the Month
card past a reader is nothing new. More Consider the case of a suspected Peru La Florida Fair Trade Organic
than a few probably notice a video cam- theft from a job site. Using analog sys-
era tucked somewhere in the ceiling, tems, the security officers need to use This coffee comes from a cooperative of small producing farmers in a
and everyone expects the presence of access different systems to view video remote area of northern Peru. It is fair trade certified and organically
fire detection equipment and burglar footage, access badge scan systems for shade grown. The cup is mildly bittersweet, complimented by cocoa
alarm systems. Through the skillful building entry and yet another to dis- notes, herbal-floral accents and perhaps some spices.
deployment of IP (internet protocol) patch resources to begin the crime-in-
technologies—much of the same tech- progress response. Time spent switching
nology that drives telephone communi- systems can lead to errors that postpone Stop by the roastery on Saturdays from 10:00am – 3:00pm at the
cations systems and computer net- incident detection and response. corner of Hall & Godfrey. Enter off Hall Street and go to the back of
works—facilities can expand capabilities With an IP-based security solution the building. Look for the South Entrance - Dock #4 sign and proceed
and bring these disparate systems security personnel can use the wireless up the wooden stairs to the 5th floor Suite S-530. There you will find
together and make them accessible over network to pinpoint the asset's location us small-batch custom roasting premium beans from around the world.
the Internet. and then poll all cameras in the building In addition, you are invited to look over our coffee & chocolate lovers
Compared to legacy analogy sys- to look for suspicious persons. Building gift baskets, loose-leaf teas, milk chocolate covered blueberries, dark
tems, digital IP systems deliver signifi- alarms can be checked to see if a badge chocolate covered espresso beans and other items for sale. We always
cant benefits, including: swipe was denied signaling unautho- have fresh roasted brewed coffee to sample along with espresso shots
• Improved business continuity rized entry by means of slipping in at no charge.
• Better collaboration with public behind authorized personnel. With this
safety agencies intelligence, the security team can
• Reduced network and operational broadcast a photo of the suspect to secu-
rity personnel's PCs and smart phones
••• www.grandrapidscof fee.com •••
costs
• Synergies between physical secu- for an alert. Gr eat Cof fee Star ts With
With A Fresh
Fresh Roast™
Roast
rity and building facilities
616-554-0200
billfeyen@exceloffice.com Craig A. Patterson • 616-308-7753
www.grandrapidscoffee.com Free delivery on 5lbs or more within Grand Rapids Area