August 2009
Packard Health to Serve West Ann Arbor with Second Location, “Packard Health West”
Monday, August 31
Packard Health, a nonprofit provider of health care to generations of Washtenaw County residents, will open a satellite location on Ann Arbor’s west side in early October. Packard Health has leased space for its second office, “Packard Health West,” in the Saint Joseph Mercy Health System (SJMHS) facilty on Maple near Dexter Avenue.
Packard Health has hired a new physician, Holly Ross, MD, to staff the new location and will add a second physician to Packard Health West shortly. Packard Health West will provide primary care by appointment. Prospective patients should call (734) 971-1073 for an appointment.
Packard Health Medical Director Raymond Rion, MD, expressed appreciation to SJMHS for its assistance in making Packard Health West a reality, and welcomed Dr. Ross to the Packard Health family. “We are very fortunate to have someone with Dr. Ross’ experience and credentials to serve west Ann Arbor, Dexter and outlying areas,” Rion said. “Packard Health West will provide the same high-quality care that we offer at our main location and will use Electronic Medical Records to track patient health information just as we do at Packard Health.”
Rion noted that Packard Health West will offer services in accordance with Packard Health’s mission. “Our entire staff takes pride in the fact that we consistently provide high-quality care to all patients, regardless of their economic circumstances. We have been able to assemble an extraordinary medical and support team who believe in our mission to be the medical home for people and families from all backgrounds.”
Packard Health’s main location (3174 Packard Road, east of Platt) has four physicians who conduct more than 18,000 patient visits annually. Its reputation for providing highquality care has attracted a high percentage of commercially insured patients, along with those enrolled in public assistance and others lacking any health coverage. Packard Health currently cares for approximately 1250 enrollees in the Washtenaw County Health Plan.
Packard Health was founded in 1973 as the Packard Community Clinic. The current location is open during business hours, many evenings and Saturday mornings. For more information, please call (734) 971-1073 or visit our website, packardhealth.org.
Two Ann Arbor Attorneys Named Among the Best Lawyers® in America for 2010
Monday, August 31
Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., is pleased to announce that attorneys Steven L. Oberholtzer and Eric J. Sosenko have been recognized by their peers as leading lawyers in their field by The Best Lawyers® in America for 2010. (Copyright 2009 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.).
Steve Oberholtzer is the managing partner of the Ann Arbor office and has served on the firm’s Board of Directors. He focuses his practice on patent and trademark counseling, corporate intellectual property policy development, technology licensing, joint development and joint venture relationship agreements, United States Patent and Trademark Office administrative proceedings, including interferences, re-examinations, re-issues, trademark oppositions, patent application preparation and prosecution, providing opinions regarding infringement risks, design-around projects and patentability and administration of corporate intellectual property portfolios. He has experience in the mechanical and electro-mechanical disciplines, with particular emphasis on automotive industry issues, and has significant experience in technology areas, including medical devices, lasers, fiber optics, optical devices and heavy industrial equipment. Mr. Oberholtzer is the principal author of a primer on intellectual property entitled,The Basic Principles of Intellectual Property Law, which was reprinted this summer following its initial publication in 2006.
Mr. Oberholtzer holds a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Kettering University, formerly known as the General Motors Institute, and received his J.D. from the Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University. He is involved with many civic and professional organizations, including the Washtenaw County Bar Association, where he serves as chair of the Intellectual Property Law Section, the Technology Transfer Society and the Licensing Executives Society, to name a few. Mr. Oberholtzer is a resident of Chelsea.
Eric Sosenko is a shareholder in the firm and his intellectual property law practice at Brinks focuses on the procurement, enforcement and licensing of patents and trademarks in all industrial fields, including the mechanical, electro-mechanical, medical and material arts. He counsels on the strategic implementation and management of domestic and international intellectual property portfolios for various multinational clients and deals with a wide range of general and specific intellectual property issues, including: licensing, joint venture, consulting and other agreement issues; patent and trademark application preparation, procurement and appeals; product and trademark protectability, infringement and clearance opinions; and, litigation analysis, strategy and support.
In addition to his U.S. practice, Mr. Sosenko has an extensive international practice with significant experience in international protection, both directly with all major foreign intellectual property offices and under various multinational treaties, including the Patent Cooperation Treaty, The Hague Agreement and the Madrid Protocol.
Mr. Sosenko received his J.D. and a B.S. in mechanical engineering from West Virginia University. He is active in various civic and business organizations, including the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce and the Boy Scouts of America and is a member of the American Intellectual Property Law Association, the Michigan Intellectual Property Law Association, the State Bar of Michigan, the Washtenaw County Bar Association and the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property. Mr. Sosenko is currently serving a three-year term on the Council for the Intellectual Property Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan. He is a resident of Green Oak Township.
Best Lawyers® has also ranked Brinks #1 in Chicago, the state of Illinois, Ann Arbor, Michigan and in Morrisville/Raleigh, North Carolina in Intellectual Property Law in the 2010 U.S. edition of the guide.
Since its inception in 1983, Best Lawyers® has become recognized as one of the definitive guides to legal excellence. Best Lawyers® is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which more than 32,000 leading attorneys cast almost two million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their specialties. Lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed for inclusion in Best Lawyers®. Lawyers are voted into specialties entirely as a result of the votes they receive from their peers.
Founded in 1917, Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione is based in Chicago with five additional offices across the country, including Ann Arbor, serving the intellectual property needs of clients from around the world. The firm is one of the largest IP law firms in the country, with more than 180 attorneys, scientific advisors and patent agents specializing in intellectual property litigation and all aspects of patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret, unfair competition, intellectual asset management, and technology and licensing agreements. Brinks routinely handles assignments in fields as diverse as electrical, chemical, mechanical, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, Internet and computer technology, as well as in trademarks and brand names for a wide variety of products and services. For additional information, visit www.usebrinks.com.
“Material Matters” An exhibition of new work and site-specific installations featuring: Larry Cressman and Susan Crowell
Monday, August 31
River Gallery is pleased to announce a very unique artistic pairing of two long time colleagues and friends from the University of Michigan Residential College. Both of these mature artists have created and are bringing together new work in response to the questions, ideas and materials they have worked with over a lifetime.
Larry, an established printmaker and master of the fine art of drawing continues his exploration of how to translate the flat surface into sculptural work. He uses natural materials like sticks, and twigs, which he obsessively gathers in the nearby terrain. His studio contains thousands of twigs, sorted by size! He mounts these to paper surfaces and site architecture to create poetic, dynamic, and suspended framed, 3-d drawings as well as large- scale constructions. His intense craft is as masterful as it is understated.
Susan asks difficult and important questions about pain and suffering, natural to the human condition and more importantly how we transform these experiences into palpable, significant and sometimes beautiful choices. She had the opportunity to participate in a cross-disciplinary examination of these questions with her peers in the field of medicine and the resulting series, Nociceptors, will be featured in the exhibit. With her passion for ceramics and a career commitment to deepening her craft, she shares with us her artistic discoveries, revealing how the properties of clay, form and color might reveal, at least partially, the joys and challenges of human psychology and spirit.
Both artist will combine their work in a site- specific installation, experimenting with how the “Material Matters”.
“Material Matters”
Saturday, September 26 – Sunday, November 15th
Reception to meet the artists Saturday, September 26 from 5pm - 8pm
Artist Talk: Sunday, October 11
Study Shows Majority Support Proposed Ann Arbor – Howell Rail
Thursday, August 27
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) announced today that findings of a recent market study indicate broad community support for the proposed Washtenaw-Livingston Line (WALLY) commuter rail that would serve residents between Ann Arbor and Howell.
The survey, conducted by Illium and Associates of Bellevue, Washington, interviewed 100 Washtenaw County residents and 101 Livingston County residents within the areas along the proposed WALLY commuter rail line to gauge the public’s interest in a commuter rail service.
According to the research report, 75 percent of Washtenaw County and 80 percent of Livingston County residents surveyed support the idea of a Washtenaw-Livingston county commuter rail service. Within Livingston County, the study found that 61 percent of respondents would be interested using WALLY for their daily commute.
“We still have a lot of work ahead of us to make sure WALLY can move forward,” said AATA CEO Michael Ford. “But the findings in this survey are very encouraging.”
The survey also found that a majority of Livingston and Washtenaw county respondents believe that public transit services are important to the economy. Seventy-nine percent of Livingston county respondents and 92 percent of Washtenaw County respondents said that public transportation is important to the local economy.
“It’s clear that area residents can see the benefits of commuter rail and believe that WALLY would be an economic boost to the area,” said Ford. “Our next steps will be to continue the planning process to ensure that WALLY is a viable north-south transportation solution.”
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority is a member of the WALLY Coalition, a broad-based group of community organizations seeking to determine the feasibility of a north-south commuter rail service between Ann Arbor and Howell. In addition to AATA, the WALLY Coalition includes representatives from the cities of Ann Arbor and Howell, Washtenaw and Livingston counties, the University of Michigan, Washtenaw Area Transportation Study, the Michigan Department of Transportation, Northfield and Hamburg townships, the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority, Washtenaw Community College, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, local Chambers of Commerce, and other interested groups and individuals from throughout the WALLY proposed service area.
To view the full WALLY survey reports, please visit www.theride.org/wally.asp.
Wagner Design Associates captures MEDA Award
Thursday, August 27
Marketing materials recently designed by Wagner Design Associates for the Lenawee Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) have been awarded first place in the 2009 MEDA Marketing Competition. The graphic design firm created collateral pieces that won in the category for "printed materials for the population of 50,001-100,000." The winning pieces included LEDC's identity package, capabilities brochure and first annual report.
MEDA, an organization whose mission is to lead Michigan's economic development through education, networking and advocacy on economic development, sponsored the fourth Annual Marketing Competition for local economic development marketing materials. The competition provides Michigan economic organizations an opportunity to have professional reviews of their marketing materials. First- through third-place ribbons were awarded to winners at an awards ceremony held in Kalamazoo on August 20th, 2009.
Lenawee Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to economic and business expansion throughout Lenawee County. In addition to business attraction, retention and start-up activities, LEDC provides services to support business growth including access to funding sources and talent enhancement.
Wagner Design provides a full range of creative design and advertising services to organizations in the high technology, retail, health care, financial, and academic sectors. The firm has won recognition and awards for its work in print collateral, direct mail, electronic communications, web design, and has been featured in various design publications. www.wagdesign.com
Football Ride shuttles begin September 5
Thursday, August 27
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) will begin a new Football Ride shuttle season with the September 5 University of Michigan game against Western Michigan. The service will operate between 19 hotel and parking sites and Michigan Stadium for eight home football games this fall.
Boarding locations are:
North Shuttle
Holiday Inn near the University of Michigan
South Shuttle
Four Points Sheraton
Hampton Inn South
Kensington Court Ann Arbor
Red Roof Inn
Indirect service
Comfort Inn – board at Red Roof Inn
Courtyard by Marriott – board at Four Points Sheraton
Holiday Inn Hotels & Suites – board at Four Points Sheraton
Downtown Shuttle
Bell Tower Hotel
Campus Inn
Fletcher Street Parking Structure
Fourth & William Parking Structure
Michigan Union
Pizza House (for Forest Street & Church Street Parking Structures)
Thompson Street Parking Structure
East Shuttle
Quality Inn
West Shuttle
Miller Road Park & Ride Lot
Weber’s Inn
Football Ride shuttles pick up approximately every 20 minutes beginning two hours before game time until 30 minutes before game time and one hour after each game ends.
Shuttle tickets are $2.50 round trip, or $1.25 one way. Tickets are sold at participating hotels. Passengers are encouraged to purchase round trip tickets, as drivers do not carry change.
Football Ride information is available on the AATA web site, www.TheRide.org, and at 734.996.0400.
Several AATA routes to detour during home games
Thursday, August 27
Several Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) bus routes will be detoured on University of Michigan home football game Saturdays, beginning with the September 5 game against Western Michigan.
On home-game Saturdays, the following AATA bus routes are detoured due to anticipated traffic congestion: Route 4 Washtenaw, Route 6 Ellsworth, Route 7 South Main-East, Route 8 Pauline, Route 15 South Maple and Route 16 Ann Arbor-Saline.
The routes are placed on detour for approximately two hours before and two hours after each home football game.
download the football detour flyer
Football Ride shuttle and detour information is available on the AATA web site, www.TheRide.org, and at 734.996.0400.
AATA to detour routes during U-M move-in
Thursday, August 27
Seven city bus routes will be on detour beginning on Tuesday, September 1 and continuing through Friday, September 4, due to the traffic congestion and road closures anticipated throughout student move-in at the University of Michigan, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) has announced.
The routes to be detoured on Tuesday, September 1 are:
Route 4 Washtenaw
Route 609 Dexter-University
Route 14 Geddes-E. Stadium
Route 18 Miller-University
The routes to be detoured Wednesday through Friday, September 2-4 are:
Route 2 Plymouth
Route 4 Washtenaw
Route 5 Packard
Route 6 Ellsworth
Route 609 Dexter-University
Route 14 Geddes-E. Stadium
Route 18 Miller-University
AATA expects that delays will occur on all AATA routes as a result of move-in activities and regrets any inconvenience our passengers may experience.
Questions on the route detours may be directed to AATA at 734.996.0400 or aatainfo@theride.org.
Weber's Hotel and Restaurant Launches Facebook Fan Page and Gets 700 Fans within Days
Wednesday, August 26
Weber’s Hotel and Restaurant plunges into the social media pool and within days secures 700 fans on its new Facebook Fan Page. Ken Weber, Owner of the family-owned Ann Arbor restaurant and hotel followed the counsel of Ingenex Digital Marketing by forging into the social media and digital marketing arenas including, Facebook and Twitter.
"We are embracing existing relationships with our worldwide clientele and building new relationships by communicating with them on an entirely new level," says Weber. "Derek Mehraban and Ingenex Digital Marketing showed us how we could permeate barriers we didn’t even know existed by embracing social media. I never imagined it would be so powerful. Within five minutes of going live, our Facebook Fan Page got its first response," says Weber adding, "We are confident that our Twitter experience will be just as successful at reaching and serving Weber’s valued clientele."
Ann Arbor based Weber’s Restaurant first opened its doors over 70 years ago as an upscale Ann Arbor dining experience, and this flagship restaurant still draws local and worldwide guests. "We are a restaurant with an Ann Arbor hotel," says Weber. Routinely renovating and transforming since its inception, Weber’s Restaurant evolved into Weber’s Inn, and today is a top choice for Ann Arbor boutique hotels and Ann Arbor dining known as Weber’s Hotel and Restaurant.
"The social media arena, such as Facebook and Twitter, allows us to communicate with clients about our transformation, frequent diner club, live music, event space, and so much more," says Weber.
About Weber’s Hotel and Restaurant
Located in the heart of Ann Arbor, MI just minutes from the University of Michigan, Weber’s Hotel and Restaurant specializes in weddings, conventions and business conferences. Founded in 1937 by Herman Weber, Weber’s Restaurant has been recognized for their upscale fare. With yearly renovations and transformations, Weber’s Hotel and Restaurant is now known as the choice for Ann Arbor boutique hotels. Serving the hospitality needs of business and leisure travelers as well as local Ann Arbor dining guests, Weber’s features live music in its Habitat Ultra Lounge, a four-seasons recreation area, complimentary Wi-Fi, and 9,300 square feet of high-tech event space.
Why Every College Freshman Should Start a Roth IRA
Wednesday, August 26
At no time since the Great Depression have college students worried more about money. Tuition continues to rise, financing sources continue to contract. So why should a student worry about finding money for, of all things, retirement?
Because even a few dollars a week put toward a Roth IRA can reap enormous benefits over the 40-50 years of a career lifetime that today’s average college student will complete after graduation. Take the example of an 18-year-old who contributes $5,000 each year of school until she graduates. Assume that $20,000 grows at 7.5 percent a year until age 65 – that would mean more than a half million dollars from that initial four-year investment without adding another dime.
Consider what would happen if she added more.
There are a few considerations before a student starts to accumulate funds for the IRA. First, students should try and avoid or extinguish as much debt – particularly high-rate credit card debt – as possible. Then, it’s time to establish an emergency fund of 3-6 months of living expenses to make sure that a student can continue to afford the basics at school if an unexpected problem occurs.
Certainly $5,000 a year sounds like an enormous amount of outside money for today’s student to gather, but it’s not impossible. Here’s some information about Roth IRAs and ideas for students to find the money to fund them.
The basics of Roth IRAs: It’s good to start with describing the difference between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA and why Roths might be a better choice for the average student. Traditional IRAs allow investors to save money tax-deferred with deductible contributions until they’re ready to begin withdrawals anytime between age 59 ½ and 70 ½. Roth IRAs don’t allow tax-deductible contributions, but they allow tax-free withdrawal of funds with no mandatory distribution age and allow these assets to pass to heirs tax-free as well. If someone leaves their savings in the Roth for at least five years and waits until they're 59 1/2 to take withdrawals, they'll never pay taxes on the gains. For someone in their late teens and early 20s, that offers the potential for significant earnings over decades with great tax consequences later.
Getting started is easy: Some banks, brokerages and mutual fund companies will let an investor open a Roth IRA for as little as $50 and $25 a month afterward. It’s a good idea to check around for the lowest minimum amounts that can get a student in the game so they can plan to increase those contributions as their income goes up over time. Also, some institutions offer cash bonuses for starting an account. Go with the best deal and start by putting that bonus right into the account.
It’s wise to get advice first: Every student’s financial situation is different. One of the best gifts a student can get is an early visit – accompanied by their parents – to a financial advisor such as a financial planning professional. A planner trained in working with students can certainly talk about this IRA idea, but also provide a broader viewpoint on a student’s overall goals and challenges. While starting an early IRA is a great idea for everyone, students may also need to know how to find scholarships and grants and smart ideas for borrowing to stay in school. A good planner is a one-stop source of advice for all those issues unique to the student’s situation.
Plan to invest a set percentage from the student’s vacation, part-time or work/study paychecks: People who save in excess of 10 percent of their earnings are much better positioned for retirement than anyone else. Remarkably few people set that goal. One of the benefits of the IRA idea is it gets students committing early to the 10 percent figure every time they deposit a paycheck. It’s a habit that will help them build a good life.
Get relatives to contribute: If a student regularly gets gifts of money from relatives, it might not be a bad idea to mention the IRA idea to those relatives. Adults like to help kids who are smart with money, and if the student can commit to this savings plan rather than blowing it at the mall, they might feel considerably better about the money they give away. At a minimum, the student should earmark a set amount of “found” money like birthday and holiday gift money toward a Roth IRA in excess of the 10 percent figure.
This article is provided by Yeo & Yeo, P.C., CPAs and Business Consultants. For more information, contact Alan V. Lapczynski, CPA at Yeo & Yeo’s Ann Arbor office, (734) 769-1331. Yeo & Yeo is a local member in good standing with the Financial Planning Association, producers of the article.
Getting Your Finances Ready For the Next Rainy Day – or Decade
Wednesday, August 26
It was Benjamin Franklin who once said, “The man who achieves makes many mistakes, but he never makes the biggest mistake of all - doing nothing.”
As the nation continues to work its way out of recession and investors begin to take stock of what looks like a lost decade in their portfolios, it might make sense to execute some simple ideas now that will give better preparation for possible tough times in the future. After all, disaster can’t be predicted, but it can be blunted by preparation. Here are a few ideas to implement as the economy recovers.
Start with expert advice: A fresh financial start should begin with some solid, up-to-the-minute advice. Consider making a trip to talk over your current finances and retirement picture – no matter what state they’re in – with your tax advisor and a financial planning professional. Many people feel they’ve made mistakes that they’ll never be able to repair with their money, and the only way that might be certain is if they don’t properly assess what they’ve done and should do in the future. Getting trained, experienced advice is one way to change that.
Pay down your debt: There was once a time when mortgage debt was referred to as “good debt,” but even that perception has changed for many families in recent years. While mortgage debt has tax advantages, the relatively recent tendency for homeowners to look at their property as a piggy bank looks headed for permanent change. And with new credit card lending rules on the horizon, Americans’ relationship with plastic is bound for big changes as well. Resolve to get a better handle on existing debt and above all things, resolve to pay it off in sensible fashion, attacking the highest-rate and less tax-advantaged balances first.
Reevaluate your career plan: It’s true that many Americans will have to work longer than they planned to assure a healthy retirement given the events of the last decade. But you shouldn’t stop there in making that assessment. As the country comes out of this economic slump, you should also be considering whether your current career meets your personal as well as your financial needs. A chance to earn extra money would certainly be great, but if you’re unhappy doing what you’re doing or you see your industry going nowhere, then it might be time to retrain or research a change.
Get serious about an emergency fund: If you suddenly lost your home, your job, or were disabled with limited health or disability benefits, how would you afford a hotel, transportation or medical bills? How would you pay for all that? Credit cards? Okay, but how would you pay off those cards? An emergency fund needs to be three to six months worth of cash at a minimum kept in an easily accessible place—not as accessible as a mattress, but not in a stock fund or some other investment that might fluctuate in value and then be tough to access for a week or more. You need to treat that cash as money that isn’t there unless a disaster occurs. And try to open it with a high enough balance so you’ll keep it from being eaten away by any account maintenance fees. Write down a list of things that are potential emergencies and sign it as a personal contract with yourself. That agreement should state that you will not touch the funds except in case of some of the following:
• Loss of employment;
• Medical bills that exceed your insurance payments (if you have insurance);
• Emergency home or car repairs in excess of insurance that are required to make the home livable or the car drivable.
Insure yourself properly: Insurance exists to prevent financial devastation. You owe it to yourself to buy whatever coverage you can afford for risks that affect you directly. Not everyone needs life insurance or particular forms of liability insurance, for example. But most of us need help knowing what coverage to buy, and that’s where the help of a financial adviser might come in handy—there is no one-size-fits all insurance solution. It’s a good time to evaluate whether your coverage in any of the following types of insurance is adequate:
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Home or rental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Auto insurance
• Liability insurance related to a particular business or work activity.
Create a worst possible scenario: It’s not the easiest thing in the world to do, but based on your own personal circumstances, what would be the biggest potential risks you might face financially? Some examples:
• If there was hereditary evidence cancer or heart disease among your closest relatives, how would you pay for treatment if your insurance didn’t fully cover the costs?
• If you live in a flood plain, do you have adequate federal flood insurance?
• If your company has been losing money for the last year, how likely is it you might be laid off?
• Will you need additional training or education to stay in your job going forward?
• If you were disabled, how would you make up your lost salary?
This article is provided by Yeo & Yeo, P.C., CPAs and Business Consultants. For more information, contact Alan V. Lapczynski, CPA at Yeo & Yeo’s Ann Arbor office, (734) 769-1331. Yeo & Yeo is a local member in good standing with the Financial Planning Association, producers of the article.
DesignHub Creates Brochure, Ad, and Mailer for McCreadie Group
Tuesday, August 25
DesignHub, Inc., a Saline-based creative services and marketing firm, has created a brochure, ad, and mailer for PharmAcademicTM, a Web-based pharmacy education program management system, from The McCreadie Group, Inc. of Ann Arbor, MI.
The new marketing materials describe how PharmAcademic helps a pharmacy school streamline its operations and improve its educational program. The software integrates capabilities for curricular outcomes management and mapping, course management, integrated assessments, and experiential training management into one Web-based platform. PharmAcademic users can access McCreadie Group’s PharmPortfolioTM software for integrated electronic portfolios.
McCreadie Group is a leading provider of software supporting the management of outcomes-based pharmacy education. In addition to PharmAcademic and PharmPortfolio, McCreadie Group offers: ResiTrakTM, an online residency evaluations system created and hosted in partnership with the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP; www.ashp.org) to support the Residency Learning System (RLS); and WebIDSTM, an online system that improves accuracy, efficiency, and safety in managing an Investigational Drug Service (IDS) by automating processes historically performed manually.
More information about McCreadie Group and its products is available from the company at 6111 Jackson Rd., Suite 109, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, info@mccreadiegroup.com.
DesignHub’s services to McCreadie Group included creative concepts, writing, design, and production of the PharmAcademic brochure, ad, and mailer.
DesignHub works with clients on Web site design and development, brand development, logo designs, brochures, newsletters, annual reports, advertising, direct mail, public relations, packaging and signage designs, trade show displays, and marketing strategies and plans.
Principals of DesignHub include: Karen Ragland, business manager and account executive; Ted Chesky, creative director and graphic designer; and Chris Kochmanski, marketing strategist, copywriter, and account executive. The firm was founded in 1999.
In addition to McCreadie Group, DesignHub’s clients include A&H Lawn Service, Advanced Photonix Inc., Aluminum Supply Company, Berry & Associates, Berry Moorman PC, Carr Engineering, Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Center for Information Management (CIM), Chelsea and Bridgewater Lumber, Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea Milling Co., Chizek Custom Builders, Chrysler LLC, Corporate F.A.C.T.S., Crain’s Detroit Business, Daniels and Zermack Associates, Daycroft Montessori School, Dexter Research, Dimensional Engineering, Electrocon International, Evangelical Homes of Michigan, The First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, Hardwood Solutions, Homeowner Services of America (HSA), INSTALL Michigan, JPRA Architects, Lamaze Family Center of Ann Arbor, Marshall Sales Inc., McMullen Company, Metropolitan Building Services, Motawi Tileworks, OptiMetrics Inc., Packaging and Shipping Specialists (P.A.S.S.), Peters Building Co., Phoenix Contractors, Pitney Bowes MapInfo, Pointwise Real Estate Group, Power Wellness, Program for Automotive Labor and Education (PALE), Rand Construction, Saline District Library, Saline Parks and Recreation Department, Samson Senior Properties, The Shipman Company, SignGraphix, Sircon Corporation, Sun Engineering, Survey Sciences Group, Tisch Investment Advisory, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and Vinylife Hose Co.
Further information is available from DesignHub, Inc., 600 W. Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176. Phone: (734) 944-8705. Email: chris@design-hub.com.
Women’s Exchange of Washtenaw Announces “You GOAL Girl” Goal Setting Event
Tuesday, August 25
The Women’s Exchange of Washtenaw kicks off their second season of business events by hosting a goal setting event on September 18, 2009 at the Eagle Crest Marriott in Ypsilanti. “You GOAL Girl” will set the stage for lively discussions designed for women business leaders to work through common goal setting obstacles in their efforts to grow their companies and improve themselves. The event runs from 7:30AM - 10:00AM and begins with a “Q & A” of an expert panel, followed by interactive goal setting activities. Cost is $30; complete panel information, schedule, and registration is available at http://wxwbusiness.com/.
“You GOAL Girl” is made possible with the participation of expert panelists:
- Merrill Guerra, Owner and Founder of RealKidz
- Susan Pollay, Executive Director, Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority
- Mary O’Hare, Professional Development Coach
- Michele Shannon, Pre-Paid Legal Services - Independent Associate and CITRMS
The mission of the Women’s Exchange of Washtenaw (WXW) is to host unique events where women business leaders talk through their issues, share experiences and ideas, and form lasting connections. Ann Arbor businesswomen Carrie Hensel and Debra Power founded WXW in 2007. They saw the need for an organization dedicated to women who are building strong and growing companies. Today, the WXW serves over 500 women with interactive events and networking opportunities.
AATA saves 100,000 gallons, $270,000 using hybrid electric technology
Tuesday, August 25
With a fuel savings of more than 100,000 gallons since the addition of its first 20 hybrid electric buses, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) has introduced seven more of the energy-saving vehicles to its fleet, with four additional units on order for delivery in June, 2010.
According to Manager of Maintenance Terry Black, AATA has reduced its fuel consumption by more than 100,000 gallons using the hybrid electric buses, which, at an average cost of $2.69 a gallon, has saved the bus system $270,000 to date.
“The introduction of hybrid electric buses into AATA’s fleet is one of many strategies to reduce our operating expenses and has been by far one of AATA’s most aggressive efforts toward ensuring a cleaner environment for the residents of Ann Arbor and the surrounding communities,” Black said.
The 11 new buses will bring the total number of hybrid electric buses to 31, or half of the daily fleet in service.
AATA’s hybrid buses, which feature an Allison electric drive as part of the General Motors hybrid electric bus system, are assembled by the Gillig Corporation of Hayward, California. The buses feature a combination of a battery-powered electric motor to provide most of the power at slower speeds and a smaller, clean-diesel engine that takes over at higher speeds.
“This technology uses a process known as regenerative braking to slow down the vehicle when letting off the accelerator. The process reduces brake wear and helps minimize stress on the engine and other related components, while recharging the batteries,” Black said, noting that this parallel system has proven very reliable in the transit industry.
The new technology has been easily incorporated into AATA’s operations and maintenance functions by its personnel, Black said, because the buses do not require special fueling or infrastructure changes.
AATA initially projected fuel savings of 25 percent with the hybrid electric buses, but has actually experienced more than 30 percent savings in fuel costs.
“The cost of a hybrid electric bus is approximately $600,000, about $200,000 more than that of a conventional diesel-powered bus. The purchases are made possible through various grant funding sources. AATA has been very aggressive in obtaining these funds for the benefit of our local community,” Black said.
The four buses now on order are being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Major advantages of the hybrid electric buses in addition to fuel savings are reductions in maintenance costs, exhaust emissions and noise. AATA’s hybrid buses have logged 1,513,753 miles, saving 100,478 gallons of the B-10 ultra low sulfur biodiesel fuel used in all AATA buses. The hybrids average 4.7521 miles per gallon, a 31.5 percent improvement as compared with the remainder of the fleet -- conventional diesel buses which average 3.6126 miles per gallon.
Hybrid electric buses have been shown to reduce maintenance costs by 30 to 50 percent; particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons by up to 90 percent; and carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide by up to 50 percent.
AATA received its first 15 hybrid electric buses in October, 2007, and five in May, 2008. Black noted that AATA is continuing to acquire these buses, since it has experienced very minimal problems with these earlier purchases.
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority was chartered in 1969 by the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as a special-purpose unit of government. AATA is supported through local, state and federal funds, and farebox revenues. AATA operates 27 public transit routes, paratransit services, and carpool-vanpool matching and other transportation services to facilitate mobility throughout the urbanized areas of Washtenaw County.
RFB2: Bacon it to the Streets!
Tuesday, August 25
Meatier. Tastier. And 100% Local
As the old adage has it, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” With that in mind, Radio Free Bacon is pleased to announce our RE-invention.
We’re taking this thing to the next level, getting bigger, meatier, tastier, and more committed to serving our local community and Michigan at large. We’ve made some heart-smart moves, without losing any of the flavor you savor (and no, we haven’t gone all ‘lean,’ on you – in fact, we’ve fattened up! More on that later).
First off, we’d like to announce a change of venue for our live show. For our Fall ’09 season, we’ll be moving our Sunday shows to Ann Arbor’s West Park Band Shell. A more public forum, where anyone and everyone can come, put down a blanket, and watch us throw down with some magnificent music, meaty messages and Michigan musings. Of course, we’ll still be heard on Ann Arbor’s WKQL 107.1, but that broadcast will be expanded to 90 minutes, allowing us more time to highlight our sponsors, guests and musicians!
Takin’ our Bacon to the streets also means we’re porking up in a few other key ways: Staff, show length, and, again, our commitment to keeping our community more vibrant, viable, and united. We're thrilled to have Bank Of Ann Arbor and Cherry Creek back on board as sponsors, and United Way of Washtenaw County will help to make our event happen as well.
There are other changes in the works, and rather than write about them, we’d like to tell you how we’re re-makin’ the Bacon. If you have 15 minutes, we'd welcome the opportunity to chat with you about Nueskes' place in all of this fun at West Park. We are offering on-site opportunities for our sponsors to provide coupons, samples and information. Let us know when it's convenient for you to discuss the possibilities.
Jane Giffin promoted to HVA Communications Manager
Thursday, August 20
Huron Valley Ambulance has appointed Jane Giffin to be the new Communications Center Manager for HVA. As Communications Manager, Giffin will be responsible for the day-to-day functions of the Communications Center, including emergency and non-emergency ambulance dispatching, fire dispatching, United Way 2-1-1 Call Center information and referral, and planning for future communications needs. With 25 years of experience at HVA, Giffin brings a new level of organizational skills and industry knowledge to assist the Communications Center in delivering the best quality service to patients, healthcare facilities, and staff. She begins her new position on August 23.
Giffin started her career as a police dispatcher and then moved to the HVA Communications Center in 1984. After being an EMS dispatcher for several years, Giffin furthered her career at HVA, holding positions in Customer Service and most recently as the Administrative Services Manager. As a manager, she has been instrumental in the development of Quality Assurance programs and will continue to strengthen this area of the Communications Center. Giffin is also HVA’s Corporate Compliance Officer, overseeing HVA’s compliance program and Medicare audits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from Eastern Michigan University and is a licensed paramedic.
“I am excited to bring someone with Jane’s qualifications and background into our Communications Center”, says HVA Chief Operations Officer Jerry Zapolnik. “This will be another milestone in HVA’s history”.
One of the larger emergency dispatch centers in Michigan, HVA’s Communications Center has 45 staff members. Annually, the Center dispatches 190,000 emergency calls for HVA's ambulance services and the following township fire departments: Ann Arbor, Augusta, Dexter Area, Northfield, Manchester, Salem, Scio, Superior, and Ypsilanti. In 2008, HVA's Call Center answered over 500,000 telephone calls. The Call Center also answers 7,500 2-1-1 information and referral calls per month for three United Way chapters in southeast Michigan.
Huron Valley Ambulance is the nationally accredited, nonprofit community ambulance service covering Washtenaw County.
AATA announces Link discontinuation; other fall service changes
Thursday, August 20
Following decisions by the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to stop funding the Link downtown circulator and the University of Michigan to operate the campus portion of the service with its own buses, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) Board of Directors has reluctantly approved a resolution to discontinue the Link service.
On behalf of AATA, Board Chair David Nacht said, “I believe that a free downtown circulator strengthens our downtown businesses, but, currently, we lack the resources to fund it.”
Public input on the proposal to eliminate the service was gathered during the month before the board had to make its decision.
In addition to discontinuing the Link, AATA will implement the following bus service changes:
· Selected trips on Routes 2, 3, 4 and 36 resume operation on Monday, August 31. These trips do not operate during the summer months.
· Route 4 - Washtenaw – Timing for many trips to Ann Arbor is being adjusted to compensate for the relocation out of the Arborland shopping center onto Washtenaw Avenue.
· Route 5 - Packard – The ‘Packard & South Boulevard’ timepoint is being renamed as ‘Packard & Stadium’.
· Route 7 - South Main-East – The last four trips to Downtown Ann Arbor on weekday evenings will leave Washtenaw Community College at seven minutes past the hour. On Sunday, all trips leaving the Blake Transit Center will end at Washtenaw and Huron Parkway and all trips to downtown Ann Arbor will begin at Washtenaw and Huron Parkway.
· Route 33 – EMU Shuttle – The service will resume operation on Wednesday, September 9.
AATA would also like to alert riders to expect detours and delays of its bus routes during the upcoming University of Michigan student move-in days from September 2 through 4 and during U-M home football games.
AATA route, schedule and detour information is available at www.TheRide.org and 734.996.0400.
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority was chartered in 1969 by the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as a special-purpose unit of government. AATA is supported through local, state and federal funds, and fare box revenues. AATA operates 27 public transit routes, paratransit services, and carpool-vanpool matching and other transportation services to facilitate mobility throughout the urbanized areas of Washtenaw County.
For Many Small Businesses, Fall Filing Deadline Looms for Special Refund Claims
Thursday, August 20
Time is running out for many small businesses wishing to take advantage of the expanded business loss carryback option included in this year’s recovery law, the Internal Revenue Service said today. Eligible individuals have until Oct. 15 to choose this expanded carryback option. Eligible calendar-year corporations have until Sept. 15.
This carryback provision offers small businesses that lost money in 2008 an excellent way to quickly get some much needed cash if they were profitable in previous years. This option is only available for a limited time, so small businesses should consider it carefully and act before it’s too late.
Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), enacted in February, many small businesses that had expenses exceeding their income for 2008 can choose to carry the resulting loss back for up to five years, instead of the usual two. This means that a business that had a net operating loss (NOL) in 2008 could carry that loss as far back as tax-year 2003, rather than the usual 2006. Not only could this mean a special tax refund, but the refund could be larger, because the loss is being spread over as many as five tax years, rather than just two.
This option may be particularly helpful to any eligible small business with a large loss in 2008. A small business that chooses this option can benefit by:
• Offsetting the loss against income earned in up to five prior tax years,
• Getting a refund of taxes paid up to five years ago,
• Using up part or all of the loss now, rather than waiting to claim it on future tax returns.
Under ARRA, eligible taxpayers can choose to carry back a NOL arising in a taxable year beginning or ending in 2008 for three, four or five years instead of two. The option is available for an eligible small business (ESB) that has no more than an average of $15 million in gross receipts over a three-year period ending with the tax year of the NOL. This choice may be made for only one tax year.
Most taxpayers still have time to choose this special carryback and get a refund. A calendar-year corporation that qualifies as an ESB must file a claim by Sept. 15, 2009. For individuals, the deadline is Oct. 15, 2009. This includes a sole proprietor that qualifies as an ESB, an individual partner in a partnership that qualifies as an ESB and a shareholder in an S corporation that qualifies as an ESB. Deadlines vary for fiscal-year taxpayers, depending upon when their fiscal year ends and whether they are making the choice for the tax year that ends or begins in 2008.
Individuals can accelerate a refund by filing Form 1045, Application for Tentative Refund. Similarly, corporations with NOLs may also accelerate a refund by using Form 1139, Corporation Application for Tentative Refund. Normally, refunds are issued within 45 days. These forms, along with answers to frequently-asked questions about this special carryback, and other details can be found on IRS.gov.
Mood-factory and Mental Health America® team up to raise awareness for mental health with Mood-lites®
Tuesday, August 18
Mood-factory and Mental Health America are thrilled to announce a new partnership raise the awareness of mental health care and prevention through the sale of Mood-lites and encourages all to Brighten Our World yellow for depression on October 10th. This campaign is in conjunction with World Federation for Mental Health’s World Mental Health Day, an event that spans 120 countries in eight languages. Mood-lites are available at select Wal-Marts, spas, retailers, hospitals, Jammin’ Away the Blues Festivals and at depression screening centers on October 8th. Visit www.brightenourworld.com for or call 1-866-353-MOOD (6663) for more information or updates on specific locations.
With the nation in an economic downturn and with so many Americans struggling in their daily lives to make ends meet, the Mood-lite is a symbol of resilience and perseverance and a reminder to support one another through hardships, especially those individuals who are suffering from mental health conditions. The Mood-lite is a yellow “happiness” light bulb that, when lit up in windows and on light posts, emits a yellow sunshine aura that is sure to brighten a room or sidewalk. The “happiness” mood-lite is a way for organizations, government agencies, businesses and retailers to convey their support of their community and remind all to be mindful of others.
Mental Health America , the nation’s preeminent mental health organization and the organization responsible for the founding of the mental health movement in the United States , is celebrating its 100-year Anniversary in 2009. Mental Health America will make the mood-lites available on its Web site, www.mentalhealthamerica.net. Through this agreement, the Mood-factory is donating a percentage of their overall yellow Happiness sales to Mental Health America and is also offering an innovative and unique way for MHA’s 300-plus affiliates to raise needed funds and bring communities together.
”It is crucial to bring greater awareness and understanding of mental health conditions and the steps that can be taken to promote prevention and recovery,” said Dr. David Shern, president and CEO of Mental Health America . “Especially at this time, it is important that we come together as a nation and support our family members, friends, neighbors and fellow citizens. It is time for mental health.”
One of the first promotional initiatives is “Brighten Our World Yellow” on October 10th in conjunction with the World Mental Health Day (WMHD) advocacy program that is celebrated globally with information being distributed in over 120 countries, in 8 languages. L. Patt Franciosi, PhD, WFMH Chair of World Mental Health Day, states “WFMH is thrilled that Mental Health America and Mood-lites have chosen October 10th, the global day of commemoration, to celebrate their Global Night of Hope by brightening our world yellow for depression. Only through innovative efforts like this can we hope to increase awareness of this global disease that is a leading cause of disability worldwide. May the new efforts in the U.S. be a beacon light for all who suffer in silence.”
Kathryn Goetzke, Mood-factory President, is thrilled about the relationship with Mental Health America . “Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, yet so often forgotten when it comes to major corporations supporting efforts for the disease state. It is a disease that can be treated, yet less than 25% are actually getting that treatment they need. Hopefully October 10th, in conjunction with efforts throughout the world on the Global Night of Hope, will start bringing some positive energy and optimism to a disease that in the past has been seen as so hopeless’.
This year the Mood-factory is donating $0.50 for each Happiness Mood-lite sold in their online shop and $0.20 per Mood-lite for all other sales to Mental Health America . Mental Health America is the country’s oldest nonprofit dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives. With more than 300 affiliates nationwide, it represents a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation – every day and in times of crisis.
Mood-lites are available at select Wal-Marts, retailers, hospitals, MHA’s Jammin’ Away the Blues Festivals and at select depression screening centers. In order to participate, organizations are encouraged to order now to ensure quantities are available by e-mailing info@brightenourworld.com or calling 1.866.353.MOOD (6663). Individuals can order online at www.brightenourworld.com. Mood-lites are manufactured by Innovative Analysis, Inc. (dba Mood-factory), headquartered in Ann Arbor , Michigan . For more information about World Mental Health Day, see www.wfmh.org.
For all press or retailer inquiries, please contact Candice Smolek at 866-353-6663 or candice@mood-factory.com.
Labor Day Transit Schedule Announced
Tuesday, August 18
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority will not operate regular fixed-route bus service, A-Ride paratransit, or senior taxi services on Monday, September 7, 2009 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Regular bus, paratransit and senior taxi services will resume on Tuesday, September 8.
AATA administrative offices at 2700 South Industrial Highway will be closed in observance of the holiday. The offices will reopen on Tuesday, September 8 on their regular 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. schedule. The Blake and Ypsilanti Transit Centers also will be closed on September 7 and reopen during their regular hours on September 8.
Passengers may take advantage of AATA’s Holiday Ride shared-ride taxi service on Monday for just $5 a person. Seniors and persons with disabilities with an AATA identification card may ride for $2.50.
The Holiday Ride taxi service operates only within the city limits of Ann Arbor. To schedule a Holiday Ride trip, call 528.5432.
Bus route and schedule information is available on AATA’s Web Site at www.TheRide.org. or at 734.996.0400.
Go!pass Offers New Benefits to Downtown Employees
Tuesday, August 18
Starting this August, the getDowntown Program is offering several new benefits for the popular go!pass program, including discounts on AATA’s Nightride and A2Express services. In addition to these new benefits, the go!pass will continue to offer downtown employees unlimited rides on all AATA buses and discounts to more than 30 Ann Arbor businesses. More information about the go!pass is available at www.getdowntown.org/bus/gopass
Employers who are within the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority (DDA) boundaries may purchase go!passes for their employees for $5 per full time employee annually. Employees may show the go!pass on any AATA fixed route bus to receive unlimited rides for a year. Since 2000, the DDA has provided grants to the getDowntown Program to keep the cost of the pass low for downtown employers. The Ann Arbor DDA grant for the coming fiscal year will be $336,668.
This year, the DDA approved a $16,000 grant that allows the getDowntown Program to provide a 50% discount to go!pass holders on the AATA’s A2Express Services from Chelsea or Canton.The Canton service begins August 24, 2009. In addition, go!pass holders will be able to ride AATA’s Nightride service for $1 rather than the regular fare of $5. Eligible employees may contact the getDowntown Program for more information on these discounts and to purchase A2Express passes.
Interest in the go!pass program continues to increase. As of July 2009, 477 downtown employers participated in the go!pass program with a total of 6,071 go!passes distributed to downtown employees, compared to 422 employers and 5,739 go!passes distributed to downtown employees for the 2008 go!pass season. From January-July 2009, 270,696 rides were taken on AATA buses using a go!pass, compared to 255,182 rides from January-July 2008, which is about a 6% increase.
“From my perspective as an employer, [the go!pass] has made locating downtown much easier both in terms of my own commute and from the standpoint of having something to offer employees to cut their expense of working downtown,” says Mortgage Broker attorney Mark Rabidoux.
The getDowntown Program encourages and assists downtown commuters in the use and development of sustainable transportation options. The Program is a partnership between the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority, the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority, and the City of the Ann Arbor.
Paws in the Park – A Family Fun Event and a Chance to Adopt a Homeless Pet
Tuesday, August 18
The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is very excited to be included in “Paws in the Park”, a 2-day pet and family fun weekend at Heritage Park in Canton, MI. “When Paw Productions called me about this event almost a year ago, we jumped at the chance to get involved,” said Deb Kern, HSHV Marketing Director. “Many people do not know that HSHV’s service area is all of Washtenaw County as well as Plymouth and Canton. It’s so important that Plymouth and Canton residents know to contact HSHV about lost pets because their animals come to our shelter. Being able to provide educational outreach about our programs and services and of course being able to do adoptions at this event are just two reasons that we have been looking forward to Paws in the Park.”
“Paws in the Park” was developed by Paw Productions to bring people and pets together. “The events being held on Saturday and Sunday, August 22nd and 23rd in Heritage Park in Canton, MI, will provide a fun and safe environment for pet owners and their pets. Dogs on leashes are welcome to come and enjoy the activities planned. We will work side-by-side with the Humane Society of Huron Valley to find loving homes for abandoned, abused and orphaned animals,” said Terri O’Brien of Paw Production. “A portion of the ticket sales will also help fund a dog park in the Canton Community.”
The 2-day event runs from 10 am to 5 pm both days with a doggie fun walk and parade kicking off the festivities on Saturday morning. HSHV will be hosting a dog walk on Saturday morning. “We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy a little over a ½ mile walk around the pond at Heritage Park. It’s only $15 to enter and the entrance fee will help homeless pets at HSHV. Registration begins at 8 am and the walk starts at 9 am,” said Deb Kern. “You can sign up online now at www.hshv.org or register in person. This isn't your typical dog walk. Creativity is encouraged and rewarded! Best Float will win Dog Food for a Year from Canidae Pet Foods, and Best Dog Costume will win a year's supply of treats from Three Dog Bakery of Plymouth.”
Paws in the Park will include some amazing entertainment, including the Purina® Incredible Dog Team, Ultimate Air Dog Competitions, and the Rock-n-Roll K9’s. Tickets are only $5 at the gate and children under two are free. Of course dogs are also free! More information, including a complete schedule of events, can be found at www.pawsintheparkusa.com.
The Humane Society of Huron Valley is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving all of Washtenaw County and beyond, and relies solely on donations from businesses and individuals to support our community programs. The mission of HSHV is to promote responsible and compassionate care of all animals in our community. For more information, call (734) 662-5585 or visit www.hshv.org.
Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione Offers Primer on the ABCs of IP Law
Tuesday, August 18
Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., announces the publication of the second edition of its intellectual property law primer, The Basic Principles of Intellectual Property Law. The primer was originally published in 2006 and was updated to reflect recent court decisions and changes in the law that impact intellectual property.
The principal author of The Basic Principles of Intellectual Property Law primer is Steven L. Oberholtzer, shareholder and managing partner of the Ann Arbor office of Brinks. Mr. Oberholtzer focuses his practice on patent and trademark counseling, corporate intellectual property policy development, technology licensing, joint development and joint venture relationship agreements and United States Patent and Trademark Office administrative proceedings. He has experience in the mechanical and electro-mechanical disciplines, with particular emphasis on automotive industry issues, and has additional significant experience in technology areas, including medical devices, lasers, fiber optics, optical devices and heavy industrial equipment.
Contributing authors of the primer include the following attorneys, also from the Ann Arbor office: Kelly K. Burris, Robert K. Fergan, Bonnie R. Shaw, Bradley L. Smith, Eric J. Sosenko and Michael N. Spink.
The Basic Principles of Intellectual Property Law is available at no charge by visiting the Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione Web site, www.usebrinks.com, and completing the request form under the “News and Events” tab.
Founded in 1917, Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione is based in Chicago with five additional offices across the country, including Ann Arbor, serving the intellectual property needs of clients from around the world. The firm is one of the largest IP law firms in the country, with 180 attorneys, scientific advisors and patent agents specializing in intellectual property litigation and all aspects of patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret, unfair competition, intellectual asset management, and technology and licensing agreements. Brinks routinely handles assignments in fields as diverse as electrical, chemical, mechanical, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, Internet and computer technology, as well as in trademarks and brand names for a wide variety of products and services. For more information, visit www.usebrinks.com.
Frank C. Wilhelme has joined Richner & Richner
Monday, August 17
Frank C. Wilhelme has joined the Ann Arbor-based fundraising consulting firm of Richner & Richner as Senior Consultant. Wilhelme joins R&R after twenty-nine years of service to the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, where he was most recently Assistant Dean for Development and Alumni Relations.
Richner & Richner is a fundraising consulting firm specializing in the design and implementation of comprehensive, tailored development strategies to help non-profit organizations achieve ongoing, sustainable success. Since their creation in 1997, they have provided consulting services to numerous regional and national non-profit organizations.
“To have Frank’s expertise available to non-profit organizations through our firm is a windfall for the region,” said Cedric Richner, R&R’s co-founding partner. “His deep and broad knowledge of fundraising has made him a national leader in the field, and he has the integrity, work ethic, and demeanor of the best consultants.”
Wilhelme has been active in fundraising and non-profit leadership for 38 years. He began his career as executive director of the Historical Society of Michigan in 1971. During his nine years as director, the HSM enjoyed a nearly tenfold increase in its operating budget and a corresponding growth in its endowment.
After joining the Ross School of Business in 1980, Wilhelme served in several capacities including director of annual giving and alumni relations and director of major gifts. His roles included serving as assistant dean for development and alumni relations and assistant dean for principal gifts. During his tenure the Ross School undertook three highly successful fundraising campaigns totaling together $537 million. He was responsible for the cultivation, strategy development, solicitation and stewardship of major and principal gift prospects for these efforts.
“Frank has the strategic acumen to successfully guide our clients through this challenging period,” added Richner.
“I am delighted to join the group of highly experienced professionals at Richner & Richner,” said Wilhelme. “This is a great time for non-profits to reassess and retool their fundraising programs. I’m eager to lend my expertise to that effort.”
Wilhelme is a graduate of Henry Ford Community College and Eastern Michigan University. While at Eastern, he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history. He and his wife, Judy live in Ann Arbor and on Torch Lake and are parents of two adult sons.
Salon Vox is Named One of the Top Salons in the United States
Monday, August 17
The August issue of Elle Magazine has named Salon Vox one of ‘The Top 100 Salons in the United States.’
This achievement comes at a time when Salon Vox proudly prepares to celebrate its third anniversary, having opened Downtown Ann Arbor at 115 West Liberty in September of 2006.
Salon Vox attributes the recognition from Elle Magazine to a 110% commitment to the best education the industry has to offer and unparalleled customer service.
Salon Vox team members can be reached to answer questions and book appointments at 734.623.4869.
Seeking Chamber Businesess for Student Projects
Monday, August 17
Would you like your business to be involved in student projects through the Small Business Institute program at Eastern Michigan University? The SBI program, offered through the Center for Entrepreneurship at EMU is seeking interested local businesses to take part in graduate level student business projects this Fall providing these consulting services under the supervision of EMU faculty in the areas of management, accounting, IT, and marketing. Special priority will be given to all Chamber member businesses who inquire. This is a chance to have your business analyzed and improved upon at no cost to you! Contact Paul A. Nucci or fill out the form online.
The Center for Entrepreneurship at Eastern Michigan University strives to create, encourage and sustain the entrepreneurial spirit through its various activities. It assists emerging growth companies in the South-Eastern Michigan region with mentoring, seminars, business plan reviews and structured mentoring and networking between entrepreneurs and various resource providers.
Golden International Launches a Global Concierge Service
Monday, August 17
Golden International, a transportation and travel services company based in Ann Arbor, today unveiled TheWorldIsGolden.com, a new online resource designed to serve clients in their travels around the world. The website also acts as a portal to Michigan, helping raise awareness of the state as a destination.
TheWorldIsGolden.com works as a global touchstone for business travelers and private parties. Providing comprehensive services around the world, across the nation and around the state, travelers can use the site as a virtual concierge service to make reservations for transportation, resorts, restaurants, and cultural events.
“We built the site so that our clients know that no matter where in the world they go, they never travel alone with Golden International,” Sean Duval, President and CEO of Golden International, said. “Whether in Detroit, New York, Honk Kong or London, if our client needs help changing their travel plans or finding the perfect gift for a gracious host overseas, he and she can contact us and we make all the arrangements.”
The new website provides access to Golden International services, from a night on the town or for a trip around the world. The website provides instant access to the company’s transportation programs with more than 1,200 affiliates in cities on six continents. Golden International also helps clients connect with more than 42,000 hotels and resorts around the world. Reservations for the service also can be made by telephone, (800) 300-5151.
About Golden Limousine
Golden Limousine International, the Driving Force Behind Business™, is a complete ground travel transportation management company. The enterprise offers a fleet of modern vehicles, resources, network and, most importantly, well-trained and highly-organized people to handle the ground transportation needs for a convention of thousands or couple sending a night on the town. The company fleet includes executive cars and limousines, stretch SUVs and full-sized shuttles and buses.
More information is available online at www.TheWorldIsGolden.com and by telephone, (800) 300-5151.
DesignHub Creates Third Edition of Product Guide for Motawi Tileworks
Monday, August 17
DesignHub, Inc., a Saline-based creative services and marketing firm, has designed and produced the Product Guide, Third Edition, for Motawi Tileworks of Ann Arbor, MI.
DesignHub also created the two previous editions of the catalog, published in 2006 and 2007.
In a refreshed design, the new full-color, 60-page Product Guide focuses on actual installations of Motawi’s handcrafted decorative tiles. Dramatic large-scale photographs of Motawi tile installed in customers’ homes and places of business are interspersed with smaller detail photos of specific Motawi products.
Included in the catalog are Motawi’s polychrome decorative tiles, relief tiles, tile murals, and field tiles and trim. Motawi’s standard tile glazes are also depicted.
The catalog features Motawi’s Chicago Series of installation tiles inspired by the decorative designs of famed architect Louis Sullivan and his colleagues from the late 1800s and early 1900s. In addition, the distinctive Textile Blocks and March Balloons tiles from Motawi’s Frank Lloyd Wright Collection® are highlighted.
The designs of many other tiles in the catalog reflect the Arts and Crafts aesthetic of early 20th Century decorative artists such as Mary Chase Stratton, Adelaide Robineau, C. F. Voysey, William DeMorgan, and Dard Hunter.
Motawi tile is found in homes and public places nationwide. It is made by the sibling duo of Karim and Nawal Motawi and their staff of artisans in the company’s Ann Arbor studio. The Motawi team uses locally produced clay and glazes mixed onsite to the company’s own recipes.
Motawi Tileworks was founded in 1992. It today employs 26 people.
More information on Motawi Tileworks is available from the company at 170 Enterprise Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Phone: 734/213-0017. Email: info@motawi.com.
DesignHub works with clients on Web site design and development, brand strategy and development, logo designs, brochures, newsletters, annual reports, advertising, direct mail, public relations, packaging and signage designs, and trade show displays, as well as marketing strategies and plans.
Principals of DesignHub include: Karen Ragland, business manager and account executive; Ted Chesky, creative director and graphic designer; and Chris Kochmanski, marketing strategist, copywriter, and account executive. The firm was founded in 1999.
In addition to Motawi Tileworks, DesignHub’s clients include A&H Lawn Service, Advanced Photonix Inc., Aluminum Supply Company, Berry & Associates, Berry Moorman PC, Carr Engineering, Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Center for Information Management (CIM), Chelsea and Bridgewater Lumber, Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea Milling Co., Chizek Custom Builders, Chrysler LLC, Corporate F.A.C.T.S., Crain’s Detroit Business, Daniels and Zermack Associates, Daycroft Montessori School, Dexter Research, Dimensional Engineering, Electrocon International, Evangelical Homes of Michigan, The First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, Hardwood Solutions, Homeowner Services of America (HSA), INSTALL Michigan, JPRA Architects, Lamaze Family Center of Ann Arbor, Marshall Sales Inc., McCreadie Group, McMullen Company, Metropolitan Building Services, OptiMetrics Inc., Packaging and Shipping Specialists (P.A.S.S.), Peters Building Co., Phoenix Contractors, Pitney Bowes MapInfo, Pointwise Real Estate Group, Power Wellness, Program for Automotive Labor and Education (PALE), Rand Construction, Renewal Ministries, the City of Saline, Saline District Library, Saline Parks and Recreation Department, Samson Senior Properties, The Shipman Company, SignGraphix, Sircon Corporation, Sun Engineering, Survey Sciences Group, Tisch Investment Advisory, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and Vinylife Hose Co.
Further information is available from DesignHub, Inc., 600 W. Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176. Phone: (734) 944-8705. Email: chris@design-hub.com.
Adaptive Materials Demos 150-watt UGV System at China Lake
Tuesday, August 11
Adaptive Materials, the solid oxide fuel cell manufacturer that’s leading the portable power revolution, recently completed a successful demonstration of its UGV (unmanned ground vehicle) power source at the Naval Air Weapons Station, China Lake. Adaptive Materials worked with iRobot, a primary supplier of UGVs to the U.S. military, to show the capabilities of a fuel cell powered UGV in a real world environment.
“Adaptive Materials has once again showed that its fuel cells have evolved beyond development and into viable, reliable power sources for critical military devices,” said Michelle Crumm, chief business officer, Adaptive Materials. “In a relevant military environment, Adaptive Materials’ fuel cells perform as intended, providing portable power that enables new possibilities.”
Adaptive Materials’ fuel cells were successful demonstrated over the course of the 3-days in a real world environment where ambient temperatures exceeded 110 degrees. Throughout the 3-day demonstration, the fuel cell powered UGV ran various sensor packages and traveled along sandy, desert roads.
The Adaptive Materials 150-watt system performed flawlessly throughout the demonstration. The fuel cell, which has been designed specifically for UGV use, showed potential to increase the range and duration of robot missions by up to 500 percent.
About Adaptive Materials, Inc.
Based in Ann Arbor, Mich., Adaptive Materials is the leader in fuel cell innovations. At the forefront of portable power innovation, Adaptive Materials is the first company to develop, demonstrate and deliver a portable, affordable, and fuel flexible solid oxide fuel cell system. Unlike other fuel cells, Adaptive Materials’ systems are powered by lightweight, inexpensive and globally available propane. Adaptive Materials’ fuel cell system provides portable power to the United States Armed Forces as well as industries including recreational vehicles, boating, and medical devices. For more information, visit www.adaptivematerials.com.
JD Motorsports, LLC has a Rare Marketing Opportunity available for Ann Arbor Chamber members!
Tuesday, August 11
JD Motorsports, has three cars in the Nationwide Series, #0, #04 & #01. The #01 car driven by Danny O'Quinn Jr., 2006 Raybestos Rookie of the year, currently doesn't have a sponsor for the Saturday, August 15th race. The #0 car driven by Mike Wallace, Geico's spokesperson last season, also has some availability on his car for the August 15th race.
This race will be nationally televised on ESPN2; this is a creative and affordable opportunity for a small to mid size business. However, this is very time sensitive considering we are less than 2 weeks out. Click here to see the positions where your logo could appear,
Ann Arbor Attorney Appointed Chair of ABA’s Intellectual Property Law Section Mid-Year Meeting
Monday, August 10
Robert K. Fergan, an attorney in the Ann Arbor office of Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., has been appointed chair of the special committee for the 2010 Mid-Year meeting of the American Bar Association (ABA) Intellectual Property Law Section. The announcement was made at the Annual Meeting of the American Bar Association on August 7, 2009. The Mid-Year meeting will be held in Orlando, Florida in February 2010 and will focus on leadership development for the Intellectual Property Law Section.
Mr. Fergan was also recently reappointed to a three-year term on the editorial board of Landslide, a bi-monthly magazine of the ABA’s Section of Intellectual Property Law that offers news and analysis on patents, trademarks, copyrights and related topics.
Mr. Fergan joined Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione in 2003. His practice at Brinks focuses on client counseling, licensing and patent prosecution in the United States and in other countries under the rules of the Patent Cooperation Treaty. He has prepared and prosecuted patents in the electrical, mechanical, electro-optical and computer science arts as well as patents related to business methods.
Mr. Fergan is extremely active in the legal profession. He is a member of the American Bar Association’s Intellectual Property Law Section and Business Law Section. Mr. Fergan is also active in the State Bar of Michigan where he serves on the Board of Commissioners of the State Bar of Michigan.
Mr. Fergan received his J.D. from Wayne State University College of Law and a B.S. in electrical engineering with a minor in optics from Kettering University, formerly known as the General Motors Institute.
Founded in 1917, Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione is based in Chicago with five additional offices across the country, including Ann Arbor, serving the intellectual property needs of clients from around the world. The firm is one of the largest IP law firms in the country, with more than 170 attorneys, scientific advisors and patent agents specializing in intellectual property litigation and all aspects of patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret, unfair competition, intellectual asset management, and technology and licensing agreements. Brinks routinely handles assignments in fields as diverse as electrical, chemical, mechanical, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, Internet and computer technology, as well as in trademarks and brand names for a wide variety of products and services. For more information, visit www.usebrinks.com.
AATA announces launch date for Canton Express
Monday, August 10
Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) will launch its Canton Express route on August 24. Canton Express will be the second route in the A2Express network, a system of bus routes designed to serve commuters who live outside of the traditional AATA service area.
Canton Express will operate on weekdays, with two trips to Ann Arbor in the morning and two return trips to Canton in the afternoon. Free commuter parking will be available at Canton’s Independence Park.
In making the announcement, AATA Manager of Community Relations Mary Stasiak said, “The demonstration of express routes such as A2Express will continue efforts to alleviate congestion and reduce parking demand in Ann Arbor.”
Stasiak added that the A2Express routes are funded through a federal grant and customer fares, eliminating the need for state or local funding during the trial phase.
The expanded A2Express network, which includes the existing Chelsea Express service, will feature numerous customer-friendly elements. Buses will serve all major employment centers in central Ann Arbor, including the University of Michigan Medical Center and the downtown area.
Full-fare passes, valid for 30 consecutive calendar days, will be available for $125. Many commuters, including University of Michigan employees and go!pass-enrolled downtown employees, qualify for a special rate of $62.50. Canton Express service will be free to all customers during its first two weeks. Commuters interested in either A2Express route – Canton or Chelsea – can talk to AATA directly for additional information.
AATA representatives will be available at the Univeristy of Michigan Medical Center Towsley Link near the main cafeteria on Wednesday, August 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and at the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce office, 115 West Huron St, Third Floor on Thursday, August 13 from 8 to 9 a.m., noon to 1 p.m. and 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Current information about A2Express routes is available online at www.a2express.org.
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority was chartered in 1969 by the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as a special-purpose unit of government. AATA is supported through local, state and federal funds, and farebox revenues. AATA operates 27 public transit routes, paratransit services, and carpool-vanpool matching and other transportation services to facilitate mobility throughout the urbanized areas of Washtenaw County.
DesignHub Creates Web Site for Corporate F.A.C.T.S.
Monday, August 10
DesignHub, Inc., a Saline-based creative services and marketing firm, has designed and developed the Web site for Corporate F.A.C.T.S., a provider of financial, accounting, consulting, and training solutions headquartered in Plymouth, MI.
The Web site tells how Corporate F.A.C.T.S. delivers strategic planning and financial management services, especially for non-profit organizations. Highlighting the site are examples of the work the company has done to develop revitalization strategies for urban and rural communities and neighborhoods.
The site also describes how Corporate F.A.C.T.S. helps financially distressed organizations with offerings ranging from outsourced chief financial officer (CFO) services to the design and implementation of accounting systems and management reporting, and consulting on investments and real estate.
Visitors to the Corporate F.A.C.T.S. site will find profiles of the company's consultants, a list of selected clients, client testimonials, news from the company, career opportunities, and reports from community development initiatives in which the company has been involved. The site also provides links to other Web sites for community development organizations and events.
Corporate F.A.C.T.S. is a privately held firm founded in 2005 by its president and chief consultant, Michelle Bush. More information on the company is available from Corporate F.A.C.T.S., 51248 Plymouth Valley Dr., Plymouth, MI 48170. Phone: (248) 681-5414. Email: info@corporatefacts.net.
DesignHub worked with Corporate F.A.C.T.S. to plan, design, program, test, and launch the new website, as well as write and edit the site’s content for search engine optimization.
DesignHub works with clients on branding, brochures, annual reports, newsletters, public relations, advertising, direct mail, packaging designs, trade show displays, and signage, as well as marketing strategies and plans.
Principals of DesignHub include: Karen Ragland, business manager and account executive; Ted Chesky, creative director and graphic designer; and Chris Kochmanski, marketing strategist and copywriter. The company was founded in 1999.
In addition to Corporate F.A.C.T.S., DesignHub’s clients include A&H Lawn Service, Advanced Photonix Inc., Aluminum Supply Company, Berry & Associates, Berry Moorman PC, Carr Engineering, Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Center for Information Management (CIM), Chelsea and Bridgewater Lumber, Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea Milling Co., Chizek Custom Builders, Chrysler LLC, Corporate F.A.C.T.S., Crain’s Detroit Business, Daniels and Zermack Associates, Daycroft Montessori School, Dexter Research, Dimensional Engineering, Electrocon International, Evangelical Homes of Michigan, The First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, Hardwood Solutions, Homeowner Services of America (HSA), INSTALL Michigan, JPRA Architects, Lamaze Family Center of Ann Arbor, Marshall Sales Inc., McCreadie Group, McMullen Company, Metropolitan Building Services, Motawi Tileworks, OptiMetrics Inc., Packaging and Shipping Specialists (P.A.S.S.), Peters Building Co., Phoenix Contractors, Pitney Bowes MapInfo, Pointwise Real Estate group, Power Wellness, Program for Automotive Labor and Education (PALE), Rand Construction, Renewal Ministries, Returnable Packaging Corporation, Saline District Library, Saline Parks and Recreation Department, Samson Senior Properties, The Shipman Company, SignGraphix, Sircon Corporation, Sun Engineering, Survey Sciences Group, Tisch Investment Advisory, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and Vinylife Hose Co.
University of Michigan Museum of Art Debuts Major International Loan Exhibition
Monday, August 10
The University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) is pleased to announce it will present a landmark exhibition of rare works of art and important new scholarship brought together to explore the provocative relationship between photography and painting along the Normandy coast in mid-19th-century France. Organized by UMMA, “The Lens of Impressionism: Photography and Painting Along the Normandy Coast, 1850–1874” will be on view in Ann Arbor October 10, 2009 through January 3, 2010 and will travel to the Dallas Museum of Art in 2010.
This exhibition advances a new argument for the origins of what was called “the new painting,” namely that a unique convergence of forces—social, artistic, technological, and commercial—along the Normandy coast of France dramatically transformed the course of photography and painting (as well as of the region itself). Within this framework, the invention of the camera and the development of early fine art photography in that particular setting will be seen as the specific catalysts that brought about a new approach to painting.
The project will showcase paintings, photographs, and drawings by some of the most treasured artists in the Western canon—Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, and Edgar Degas among them—as well as pioneering photographers such as Gustave Le Gray and Henri Le Secq. Inspired by the scenic Normandy coast of France, these works—including representations of beach scenes, seascapes, fishing villages, resorts, and the region’s pastoral beauty—will be brought together with archival materials related to early tourism and regional expressions of French nationalism from popular culture for an innovative examination of the impact of the then-new medium of photography on ideas of image making, the recording of passing time, the capacities of painting, and the rise of Impressionism itself.
The exhibition will include loans from private and public collections in both the United States and Europe, featuring exceptional loans from the Musée d’Orsay and a generous loan of outstanding photographs from the rich collections of the Bibliothèque nationale de France.
Catalogue
The exhibition will be accompanied by a fully illustrated book with essays by internationally recognized scholars: Sylvie Aubenas, Head, Department of Prints and Photographs at the Bibliothèque nationale de France; Dominique de Font-Réaulx, Curator, Musée du Louvre; Stephen Bann, Bristol University; Dean MacCannell, University of California at Davis; and UMMA’s Senior Curator of Western Art, Carole McNamara.
Programs
A varied slate of programming designed to accompany and interpret the exhibition includes a series of musical performances featuring the faculty and students of the University of Michigan’s renowned School of Music, Theatre, and Dance; major lectures by Carole McNamara, Stephen Bann, and Jane Fulcher, UM musicology professor; and drop-in seascape painting workshops for families. For more details, visit UMMA’s website at www.umma.umich.edu.
Support
This exhibition is made possible in part by the Florence Gould Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, the University of Michigan Health System, Office of the Provost, Office of the Vice President for Research, School of Music, Theatre & Dance, the Center for European Studies-European Union Center, and Department of History of Art, Masco Corporation, Furthermore: a program of the J. M. Kaplan Fund, the University of Michigan Credit Union, and the family of Dr. Raymond F. Cunningham in his memory. “The Lens of Impressionism” would not have been possible without the generosity and cooperation of the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) and features exceptional loans from the BnF and the Musée d'Orsay.
Media contact
Stephanie Rieke Miller, srieke@umich.edu or 734.647.0524. A selection of low-resolution press images may be viewed at www.umma.umich.edu/view/future.html
The press preview will be held Friday, October 9. Please contact umma-press@umich.edu for details and to RSVP.
UMMAIn March 2009 the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) opened a landmark 53,000-square-foot expansion, named the Maxine and Stuart Frankel and the Frankel Family Wing for its lead benefactors, and a major restoration of its historic, 41,000-square-foot home, Alumni Memorial Hall. Designed by principal architect Brad Cloepfil and his team at Allied Works Architecture, the $41.9 million transformation not only more than doubled the space available for collections display, temporary exhibitions, programs and educational exploration, but also fulfilled the Museum’s mission to offer a meeting place for the arts, bridging visual art and contemporary culture, scholarship and accessibility, tradition and innovation. The Museum’s near universal collections of more than 18,000 works of art span Western, Asian, and African traditions.
