january 2014 chamber news

January Business Matters features Mercy Health Saint Mary’s new president Bill Manns. Plus, check out February and March speakers!

Check out this month’s Members in the Spotlight, featuring Edify North and Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services.

What’s new with fellow Chamber members? Read all about it in this month’s Newsfl ashes.

Learn three ways to reduce your stress and productivity from Alison Brown of ENCOMPASS.

Chamber is proud to announce the launch of OutPro, an LGBT professionals group.

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CONTENTSChamber Forms New Partnership with the West Michigan Minority ContractorsIt is our great pleasure to announce the Chamber has formed a new collaborative partnership with the West Michigan Minority Contractors Association (WMMCA). The Chamber and WMMCA have joined forces in a combined eff ort to better foster the growth of small businesses in the area while promoting economic diversity in the region.

“We are looking forward to growing the organization and providing better support for small businesses and our members,” said Michael Verhulst, President of the West Michigan Minority Contractors Association and President/Owner of Summit Landscape. “The Chamber has the best resources and programming for growing small businesses combined with unmatched networking opportunities and a drive to diversify membership.”

Through the new partnership, the two organizations will collaborate on business growth events and programs such as the successful Minority Business Showcase event they co-sponsored in October 2013.

“This an exciting partnership for both the Grand Rapids Area Chamber and the West Michigan Minority Contractors Association,” noted Rick Baker, President and CEO of the Chamber. “It is a unique opportunity to extend the Chamber’s resources and programming for business growth in a way that directly benefi ts members of both organizations. Our aim is to facilitate an environment where diverse businesses can thrive and prosper for the benefi t of all.”

For more information, please contact Sonya Hughes at [email protected] or 616.771.0321.

continued on page 4

THE CHAMBER NEWSJanuary 2014 | Vol. 14 | No. 1

A publication of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

Happier & Healthier: Workplace Wellness Programs What if there was a way to positively impact your corporate culture, company bottom line, and employees’ personal lives all at the same time?

Business owners and employers of all sizes are discovering that workplace wellness programs and company-sponsored health initiatives can actually generate such a triple win scenario. These businesses have learned how adding workplace wellness to the mix helps boost productivity, improve morale, and reduce medical or insurance expenses among many other benefi ts.

“A happy and healthy employee is a more productive employee,”

noted Amy Ritsema, co-owner with Mary Kline of OnSite Wellness, which specializes in customizable programs and services for employee health and wellness that support employer business strategies. “The bottom line is that if you have a room full of employees who have a positive sense of well-being, you will have a healthier bottom line.”

What’s more, Ritsema adds: “Wellness programming can fi t any size organization. You do not have to be a large company to have a comprehensive wellness program.”

2014 BUSINESS MATTERS SERIES

Journey to Leadership & Lessons Learned | January 14Bill Manns, President, Mercy Health Saint Mary’sFrom California to Michigan, Bill Manns shares his experience in hospital management, his rise to leadership, and the lessons learned along the way. A native of Detroit and a graduate of the University of Michigan, Bill moved to Grand Rapids in August 2013 after serving as chief operating offi cer at the Alameda Health System in Oakland, California. Bill is known as a strong relationship and consensus builder, an analytical problem solver, and a proponent of lean business principles.

Building a High Performing Team | February 18Rob Elliott, Principal, Pondera AdvisorsLearn to balance your team with the right mix of strengths and capitalize on team diversity for better results and a better bottom line. With a broad range of experience from educator to business manager to leadership consultant, Rob Elliot shares his expertise. He co-founded Pondera Advisors in 2006 and has since helped clients achieve balance and make a positive diff erence in their organizations by better understanding and valuing others’ operating styles.

Leadership ROI: Dividends on Development | March 25Kathy Crosby, President & CEO, Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids, Inc.What is the ROI on your leadership development? Can long-term investment make the diff erence in your organization? Kathy Crosby discusses her experiences cultivating leaders and how investing in life-long learners can help foster employee dedication and business growth. Noted for her business acumen and dedication to those served by Goodwill, Kathy Crosby knows fi rsthand the rewards of mentoring high-potential employees.

All Times | 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.All Locations | Celebration! Cinema North – Wave Room, 2121 Celebration Dr. NEAll Events Cost | $18 members, $25/member after 5:00 p.m. Friday, January 10, 2014, $25/future members (includes hot breakfast) All Registerations | Register online at www.grandrapids.org/businessmatters or by calling the RSVP hotline, 616.771.0303.

The Chamber News January 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan

CHAMBER News & Notes

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Join us for these great speakers featured at our Business Matters Series who are bringing you fresh outlooks and new ideas. Plus, you’ll hear about the business trends, community projects, and Grand Rapids newsmakers putting our region on the map.

Bill Manns Rob Elliot Kathy Crosby

Join us on January 16 for the fi rst ATHENA Leadership Forum of 2014 and launch your year with a discussion around Courageous Acts—standing up and standing fi rm in the face of fear; taking risks to speak the truth or challenge the way things have always been done.

We will hear from 2013 ATHENA Finalist Jane Gietzen, Director of Information Services at Spectrum Health, and Melissa Werkman, Executive Director at Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan and fi nalist for both the 2008 ATHENA Young Professional Award and the 2009 ATHENA Award.

Perfect for women of all levels, the ATHENA Leadership Forum fosters and supports the development of strong female leaders in our community with bi-monthly programming around the eight tenets of the ATHENA Leadership Model. Attend all fi ve with an annual rate available for purchase through January 10;

contact Mercedes Cowper at [email protected] or 616.771.0341. Date | Thursday, January 16, 2014Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Location | Donnelly Center, Aquinas College, 1607 Robinson Rd. SECost | $20, lunch includedRegistration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/athenaleadershipforum or call the RSVP hotline, 616.7710303.

ATHENA Leadership Forum Kicks Off with Courageous Acts

Jane Gietzen Melissa Werkman

Announcing the Launch of OutPro, a LGBT Professionals GroupA highly talented and diverse workforce is the key to new ideas and forward motion. As a champion for an inclusive and magnetic community, the Chamber is proud to announce the launch of OutPro, an LGBT professionals group.

“The Chamber is working to foster a business environment that supports a diverse workforce, and we welcome the chance to include OutPro as one of our growing number of professional affi nity groups that help employers attract and retain talent in West Michigan,” said Rick Baker, President and CEO of the Chamber.

Baker noted that the Chamber has seen an increased need within the business community for professional groups, like OutPro, that create an inclusive business environment. The OutPro group was created to promote a welcoming culture in the West Michigan community for LGBT professionals, and it off ers opportunities for both social and professional networking through monthly gatherings at various venues throughout the city. OutPro gatherings are attended by professionals at all career levels, representing a diversity of corporations, small businesses, and public and non-profi t organizations.

“We’re meeting a need that is here for attracting and retaining professionals; that’s why partnering with the Chamber is so great,” said Jill May, OutPro Co-founder and Director of Fund Development at The Right Place. “We want to be part of that recruitment and onboarding process when a LGBT person is new to town, and the Chamber is already in a good position for us to access those folks.”

OutPro offi cially rolled out its new logo and branding at a launch party last month. The organization will now be supported as part of the Chamber’s diversity and inclusion programming. The group is open to all who wish to be a part of the LGBT professional community.

Contact Ciciley Moore at [email protected] or 616.771.0320 to be added to the OutPro mailing list, and be sure to visit the OutPro Facebook page (www.facebook.com/outpro) for upcoming events and more!

3The Chamber NewsJanuary 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan

The Chamber News Editorial Policy

Recycle Me

Articles written by outside authors do not necessarily refl ect the view or position of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. The position of the Chamber will be clearly stated.

The Chamber reserves the right to reject advertising based on content and does not accept advertising that confl icts with a position of the Chamber.

The advertising of products and services in The Chamber News does not necessarily represent endorsement by the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber News (USPS 357-010) is published monthly by the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. 111 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.p: 616.771.0300 | f: 616.771.0318 | www.grandrapids.org

Senior Editor & Advertising: Latricia Trice | [email protected] Editor: AliciaMarie Belchak | [email protected]: Karen Thelen | [email protected]

Second Class Periodical Postage Paid at Grand Rapids, MI.POSTMASTER: Send Address changes to The Chamber News at the Address above.

RIBBON Cuttings

The following members have celebrated grand openings, anniversaries and/or new additions!

If you have a reason to rejoice—whether it’s an upcoming ground breaking, a grand opening, a new product launch, an anniversary, or some other event—the Chamber can help make the occasion special. (We’ll even bring the big scissors with us!)

Visit www.grandrapids.org/ribboncuttings to see how we can applaud your business milestone.

Congratulations C3 – Collaborative Communications Consulting on their 5 year business anniversary.

Applebee’s at 4955 28th Street SE celebrated their grand re-opening with a ribbon cutting and donation to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Photo courtesy of Richett Media.

Mayan Buzz Café is open 24/7 and celebrated their grand opening at 208 Grandville Ave SW.

Goodwill Industries celebrated the opening of their newest retail store and donation center at 870 28th St SW.

BIG SCISSORS on the Move

January 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan4 The Chamber News

Workplace Wellness Programs (continued from cover) We interviewed several Chamber members who are building business objectives and success stories around health and wellness. The excerpts that follow highlight some of these members who are fostering healthier habits and happier people. We invite you to read the full interviews as well as additional member stories and tips at our website, www.grandrapids.org.

Knape & VogtAndy Marzolf, Vice President of Human Resources

Knape & Vogt designs, manufactures, and distributes hardware and offi ce consumer goods products. The company has 1,150 employees worldwide, 625 of whom are based in their Grand Rapids headquarters.

Program Design: Partnered with OnSite Wellness in 2012 to address rising health care costs. “Our approach was simple, as a self-insured medical insurance benefi t provider, we needed to address the fi nancial strain of providing this benefi t for our employees and their families.”

Employee Benefi ts: A 15% insurance premium discount off ered through a point-based program that includes assessments, results, challenges, knowledge and skill building sessions, and event participation.

Business Benefi t: “After our fi rst 18 months, we have witnessed improvement in cohort biometric screening data in all categories as well as a reduction of year-over-year medical insurance costs. As our wellness experience grows, we continue to adjust the program to improve participation and results-based metrics.”

Wellness Outlook: “As wellness continues to be a business objective, it has also yielded a cultural byproduct that has positively aff ected overall team morale. In many ways, this program is viewed as a benefi t that has improved individuals health and well-being at work and at home.”

Lake Michigan Credit UnionJulie Ledsworth, Benefi ts Manager

With 32 branches, almost 100 ATMs, $3 billion in assets and 770 employees, Lake Michigan Credit Union is the largest fi nancial institution headquartered in West Michigan.

Program Design: “By off ering a variety of programs designed to promote a healthier lifestyle, we feel we can impact the overall health and well-being of our staff and that trickles down, hopefully, to their families.”

Employee Benefi ts: Financial discounts at local health clubs. Flu-shots provided. Biometric screenings and various events throughout the year to promote health and wellness. Quarterly wellness incentives for health insurance participants and an online wellness portal for tracking goals and additional resources.

Business Benefi t: “A healthy and vibrant workforce results in better and more reliable service for our members and a more productive environment. With a healthier staff , there are fewer health related illnesses and work loss—and that translates to a more productive environment.”

Wellness Outlook: “We believe in off ering carrots rather than sticks and have great voluntary participation in the things we off er.

Encouraging healthy habits and off ering wellness programs through-out the company positively impacts our culture. It speaks volumes to employees that we are willing to invest in their health.”

Skytron, LLCElizabeth Hanning, Director of Human Resources

Founded in 1972, Skytron, LLC is a family-owned, private company committed to providing the acute care market with innovative and fl exible medical equipment solutions for healthcare.

Program Design: “We have a fairly robust wellness program here at Skytron, and our CEO, Dave M. Mehney, is one of the biggest champions for our wellness program. When promoting employee health, it’s important that company leaders get on-board and exhibit enthusiasm for the program”

Employee Benefi ts: Discounts on bi-weekly insurance premium contribution for completing voluntary annual Health Risk Assessment. Additional discounts for not using tobacco and for every biometric goal met. Company workout facility on-site and education seminars off ered on nutrition, stress reduction, and other topics.

Business Benefi ts: “Employee health has a big impact on our company. Healthier, more focused and engaged employees exhibit improved attendance, work quality, and safety while reducing the overall cost of medical coverage—things that all aff ect the bottom line.”

Wellness Outlook: “Our company understands that everyone wins with stronger, healthier employees. Health is something that aff ects everyone within an organization, regardless of their job title or position.”

“Wellness programming can fi t any size organization. You do not have to be a large company to have a comprehensive wellness program. Ultimately, the organizations that have built wellness into their culture have the most successful programs.”- Amy Ritsema, OnSite Wellness


Reducing Stress Increasing Productivity By Alison Brown What stresses one person doesn’t necessarily stress another. Like so many situations in life, context and perception are everything when managing your personal stressors.

Your ability to master your stress impacts your productivity.

For example, a tight deadline may present the right combination of allotted time and challenge for one person while being disruptive for another.

A Matter of Perception

When fear or worry are primary factors in how we perceive a task, our accompanying thoughts are negative as well—not good enough, not enough time and so on and so forth. When we perceive a more positive approach—such as, this is challenging, but I’m going to give it my best—we give ourselves more positive messages that bolster our ability to cope with the challenge at hand.

You may have perceived a situation as overwhelming, and now, having faced that challenge, created valuable lessons about your strengths and capabilities. The approach we take and the accompanying thoughts that we have about a process will directly aff ect our ability to thrive and be productive.

Making Stress Productive

Work and life situations are stressful—but how do people who routinely face stressful situations in their daily work maximize productivity? Here are a few guidelines that may serve to help you as you face the next stressful situation.

& InIn

1. High performers accept that life will always have stressful situations. They spend less time and energy wishing for a non-stressful life and more time accepting that life will throw you a curve ball—and when it does, they use their resources to do what needs to be done to meet the challenge.

2. Center yourself when stress occurs. Make an investment of time—on behalf of yourself—to contemplate the context and voice your concerns with a trusted professional, friend or family member in order to plan next steps. By calming your mind and engaging support, you have more resources at your disposal to successfully tackle the challenge.

3. Stay in the moment (right here and right now) and recognize that while you would not have chosen to be in this particular stressful situation you can and will rise to meet the challenge.

Alison Brown, LMSW, Ph.D. is Chief Enhancement Offi cer, CEO, of ENCOMPASS, LLC—an employee assistance program, work-life and well-being fi rm dedicated to helping businesses strengthen people, performance and productivity.

“ How we perceive the deadline makes the diff erence between thriving or stressing.”

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MEMBERS In The Spotlight

When Edify North opened in 2009, co-founders Sara Julius and Mike Hill knew their employee benefi ts agency would have to provide value and a high standard of service to succeed, and that’s exactly what they’ve done—growing their revenues by 40 percent and expanding to seven employees in the process.

“We work with employers to improve both physical and organizational health,” said Hill, noting Edify North helps businesses stay compliant with rules and regulations in employee benefi t arena. “We believe it’s our responsibility to identify what it takes to be compliant and to facilitate compliance with our clients.”

Although Edify North sells insurance, Hill is quick to point out their job goes way beyond off ering traditional employee benefi t packages. Edify North includes many added services like regular on-site visits, employee health and wellness communications, custom fi tness campaigns and wellness programs, and facilitation of employee open enrollment.

“We work incredibly hard to stay plugged in with our clients and provide e x c e p t i o n a l value to our customers on an ongoing basis,” Hill said. “Every one of our clients is unique,

and so are the solutions we deliver.”Edifi y North consultants focus on developing a culture-specifi c

approach for their clients. Their creative, tailor-made employee wellness programs and health benefi ts packages have a successful track record of increasing employee engagement, attracting and retaining talented employees, and creating actionable ways to improve a company’s culture and operations through improved health outcomes.

One client was recently named among Michigan’s healthiest employers after working with Edify North. To simplify things for clients, Edify North has developed a mobile app that helps companies and employees track health and wellness goals and can tie it to program incentives and fun fi tness challenges.

An active Grand Rapids Area Chamber member since 2011, Edify North has sponsored health care forums and the recent discussion with Steve Van Andel, Chair of the U.S. Chamber and Amway. Hill said they really value the legislative advocacy of the Chamber and appreciate the many networking opportunities. “The quality of events is fantastic. I don’t believe there is a better place to get plugged in throughout the entire area,” Hill said.

Edify North will launch a new name in the coming months, so stay tuned at www.edifynorth.com.

In 1910, a small group representing a variety of denominations met to start a psychiatric hospital which would off er Christian care for people with mental illness. Little did they know the breadth and depth of services this organization—which grew into Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services—would off er to members of the Grand Rapids community and the nation.

Today, the non-profi t organization is one of the fi ve largest free-standing behavioral health providers in the U.S. With 16 outpatient locations throughout Michigan and two in Iowa, Pine Rest provides a full continuum of services within a Christian framework. On an annual basis, Pine Rest serves 41,000 individuals. Each year, Pine Rest sees over 276,600 visitors in outpatient care, more than 5,600 inpatient hospital admissions, and a daily average of 208 people via residential programs.

“At Pine Rest we’re redefi ning ‘healthy.’ Our comprehensive behavioral health services help you better maintain all aspects of your well-being, so that you can lead the healthiest life possible,” said Bob Nykamp, Chief Operating Offi cer.

Their extensive off erings include addiction treatment and recovery, extensive child and adolescent programs, senior care services, specialized assessment and treatment clinics, plus three new programs: a “Mother and Baby” day program (second U.S. program of its kind), a psychiatry residency program (accepting eight residents this July), and the Van Andel Cook Center for Dementia & Geriatric Behavioral Health (specifi cally for needs of the older adults).

Pine Rest also off ers an employee assistance program (EAP), which gives employers access to a variety of services to help employees personally and directly as well as to assist and train managers and other employees in dealing with diffi cult employees/co-workers situations. All individuals accessing EAP services speak with a qualifi ed Pine Rest counselor or therapist. Professionals of all ages will fi nd useful information on their website. “Many of Pine Rest’s clinicians have written blog posts that provide insight into a variety

of topics,” noted Nykamp.Pine Rest joined the

Chamber in 1980 because the Chamber provides so many useful services and networking opportunities. “I value the wonderful advocacy work the Chamber does for our business and staff on behalf of a strong work

environment in West Michigan,” said Nykamp, pointing to the recent restructuring of Medicaid expansion that now includes critical mental health services for over 400,000 Michigan residents.

Visit www.pinerest.org to learn more.

“The quality of Chamber events is fantastic. I don’t believe there is a better place to get plugged in.”

“I value the wonderful advocacy work the Chamber does on behalf of a strong work environment in West Michigan.”

8 January 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield MichiganThe Chamber News

Three Join Grand Rapids Chamber Board of DirectorsPlease join us in welcoming the newest additions to the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Board of Directors.

• Lynn Afendoulis, Universal Forest Products, Inc.• Lew Chamberlin, Whitecaps Professional Baseball Corporation• Nelson Sanchez, RoMan Manufacturing, Inc.

The 2014 offi cers are:

• Chairperson of the Board: Douglas Dozeman, Warner, Norcross & Judd, LLP • Chair Elect: Stacie Behler, Meijer, Inc.• Vice Chairperson, Finance/Audit: Jeff Connolly, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan• Vice Chairperson Public Policy: Jerry Kooiman, MSU, College of Human Medicine• Vice Chairperson Governance: Steve Heacock, Spectrum Health

• Vice Chairperson at Large: Mike Mraz, Rockford Construction Company • Vice Chairperson at Large: Michael Verhulst, Summit Landscape Management Inc. • Immediate Past Chairperson: Bill Benson, WilliamCharles Search Group

Nominations Are Open for The EPIC AwardsSix awards. Many potential contenders. Who will you nominate for the 2014 EPIC Awards?

EPIC nominations have opened and are being accepted through 5:00 p.m. January 31.

Submit your nominations for:

• Excellence in Business—Non-profi t & for-profi t organizations with more than 50 employees

• Small Business of the Year—Businesses with 50 or fewer employees• Young Entrepreneur of the Year—Under the age of 35• Minority-Owned Business of the Year—Must be 51% Minority Owned• Women-Owned Business of the Year—Must be 51% Women Owned• Non-Profi t of the Year—Non-profi ts with 50 or fewer employees

Anyone who has been a Chamber member in good standing for at least one year by May 15 and fi ts the award criteria is eligible for nomination. The top three fi nalists for each award will be selected from responses to a more extensive questionnaire sent to all nominees after January 31. These fi nalists will then move on to an interview process from which the recipient for each award will be selected by a committee of Chamber members.

We will be highlighting all of our EPIC Award fi nalists during the event dinner, where the individual recipients for each award will be offi cially announced. So, mark your calendars for the EPIC Awards Celebration on May 15, and plan to join us at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Visit www.grandrapids.org/epic-awards for the nomination form and additional details. Sponsorships for this high-profi le event are available; contact Diane Cisler at 616.771.0357 or [email protected] for information.

Lynn Afendoulis Lew Chamberlin Nelson Sanchez


UPCOMING Chamber Events

Unless otherwise noted, register for events at www.grandrapids.org/events. Or, call the RSVP hot line at 616.771.0303 (Please have your credit card information handy when you call.)Questions about events? Call 616.771.0300. Special needs: Vegetarian meals are available. Please let us know your dietary requirements when registering. Reasonable arrangements for people with disabilities will be made if requested in advance. Registration and Cancellation Policy: Prepayment of events is required and guarantees a reservation. Cancellations must be received at least two business days prior to an event to be eligible for a full refund. No-shows will be billed.

January 2014 8 | New Member Connections

Discover how your Chamber membership can help you connect, network,

grow, and do more while meeting other new members and getting to know

your Chamber staff .

Time | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.

Location | Prince Conference Center, 1800 E. Beltline Ave. SE

Cost | Free for new members

Sponsored by:

9 | Business Exchange Luncheon

Bring your business cards and enjoy a lunch full of new connections at the

Chamber’s #1 networking event.

Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Location | The Crowne Plaza, 5700 28th St. SE

Cost | $20/member early registration, $25/member after 5:00 p.m. January 6,

$25/future member (may only attend once)

Sponsored by:

14 | Business Matters Series

Hear Bill Manns President of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s share his journey to leadership

and lessons learned along the way.

Time | 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

Location | Celebration! Cinema North – Wave Room, 2121 Celebration Dr. NE

Cost | $18/member-early registration, $25/future member or late registration

after 5 p.m. January 10 (includes hot breakfast)

16 | ATHENA Leadership Forum

Join us as we discuss the ATHENA tenet of Courageous Acts with two former

ATHENA fi nalists—perfect for women at all career stages!

Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Location | Donnelly Center, Aquinas College, 1607 Robinson Rd. SE

Cost | $20, includes lunch

21 | 126th Annual Meeting

Come swim with the sharks as you network with business and community

leaders and hear ABC’s Shark Tank investor and entrepreneur, Daymond John.

Location | JW Marriott Grand Rapids, 235 Louis Campau St NW

Cost | $50/member-early registration, $75/future member, $700 per

corporate table (10 seats) $800/future member

Sponsored by:

February 201413 | Business Exchange Luncheon

Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Location | Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5700 28th Street SE

Cost | $20/member early registration, $25/member after 5:00 p.m. February 11,

$25/future member (may only attend once)

Sponsored by:

18 | Business Matters

Rob Elliott of Pondera Advisors reveals how to balance your team with the right

mix of strengths for better results.

Time | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.

Location | Celebration! Cinema North – Wave Room, 2121 Celebration Dr. NE

Cost | $18/member-early registration, $25/future member or late registration

after 5 p.m. on February 14 (includes hot breakfast)

24 | Breakfast with Legislators

Connect with your elected representatives and network with other members as

we launch our legislative discussions for 2014.

Time | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.

Location | The Rapid, 50 Grandville Ave. SW

Cost | $15/Members, $20/Future members or late registration after 5 p.m.

Wednesday, February 19

Sponsored by:

TO REGISTER

January 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan10 The Chamber News

NEWS FlashesNewsfl ashes is a feature of the Chamber News that recognizes Chamber members’ new products or services, new or promoted employees, and any honors or recog-nition they have received.

E-mail press releases to [email protected]. Deadline: fi rst Friday of each month.

ASTI Environmental is one of fi ve environmental consultants that have been selected by Oakland County to manage their $600,000 EPA Brownfi eld Assessment Grant ($500,000 for hazardous substances and $100,000 for petroleum substances). ASTI Environmental is the only fi rm in the State of Michigan that has successfully completed more than one Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) for governmental entities. ASTI has assisted Oakland County, Wayne County and the City of Kentwood.

The Baker College system has been ranked among the nation’s top 20 online/non-traditional schools in the annual Best for Vets college rankings by Military Times, a family of newsweeklies that provides independent information to service members and their families. A group of Baker College students created an Indiana museum’s newly launched online reservation system as their capstone project, one of the fi nal steps to complete the online Master of Science in information systems (MSIS) at Baker College Center for Graduate Studies; congratulations to Chase Busscher, Jacqueline Donnelly, Jeff Johnson, Todd Peltier, Scott Nelson, Heather Manning and Barb Johnstone who were all instrumental in saving countless staff hours from manually processing event ticket orders.

The Bank of Holland expanded its footprint on the Lakeshore with a new, larger offi ce in the heart of downtown Grand Haven.

Beene Garter is pleased to announce the addition of Rachel Wynbelt as a Retirement Plan Administrator, Jeff DeLeeuw as a Full Charge Bookkeeper, and Ben Eavey as the Director of IT.

BlueWater Technologies Inc., an industry leading provider of custom audio visual integration and event technology, was recently recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of America’s leading private company job creators. BlueWater

Technologies was a recipient of Inc. Magazine’s second annual “Hire Power Award.”

The Campbell Group, a division of Acrisure, named Andrew Schutt as President; Dan Mannes has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Acrisure Business Outsourcing Services Sales and Don Collins has been named Acrisure’s Chief Operating Offi cer

Care Resources Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly proudly welcomes Dr. Gursharn Dosanjh, MD as their new Medical Director and Larry Sluiter, PAC as their Physician Assistant.

Chemical Bank is pleased to announce the establishment of the Chemical Bank Foundation. The Foundation will award grants for a variety of worthy endeavors aimed at improving the quality of life throughout the communities in which Chemical Bank operates. Chemical Bank’s Mittens for Michigan initiative once again encouraged others to lend a hand and help provide warmth for those who are experiencing diffi cult times throughout Michigan communities. Individuals, families, businesses and schools were encouraged to donate winter garments to their local Chemical Bank offi ce, which will accept donations until mid-January.

The City of Grand Rapids has been awarded a $619,514 grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to construct the Seward Avenue Bikeway. This 3.5 mile bike route through the heart of the city will connect over 190 miles of regional trails, including the White Pine Trail, Oxford Street Trail, and Kent Trails.

Colliers International welcomed Cribs 2 Bunks and L. Marie & Co to East Paris Crossings. With the addition of these two new tenants, the center is now 94% occupied. Mark Ansara of Colliers International represented the owners of East Paris Crossings in both transactions.

Brad Morrill has joined Crystal Flash as Director of Sales.

CSM Group is proud to announce its offi cial opening in Omaha, NE, further expanding its construction management (CM) services in the U.S. The new location will be stationed in The Mastercraft building in downtown Omaha, home to start-up and creative companies.

Davenport University’s College of Health Professions launched a new Master of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management (MSHIIM) degree program in the Winter 2014 semester, available in class and online.

Dykema congratulates Wayne D. Roberts who has been selected, based on peer review, for inclusion in the 20th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America in the practice areas Litigation & Controversy – Tax and Tax Law. Roberts also was honored this year by being named the 2014 Grand Rapids Tax Law Lawyer of the Year. In addition, Roberts was seleted for inclusion in the 2014 Michigan SuperLawyers list, a designation conferred upon no more than fi ve percent of the lawyers in the State.

Edward Jones Financial Advisor Becky Renner Anderson of has been invited to attend Barron’s Winner’s Circle Top Women Advisors Summit. This exclusive conference, created to enhance the professional development of those who work with individual investors, represents the nation’s top women fi nancial advisors, as well as industry decision-makers.

The Women’s Life Insurance Society Chapters of Rockford and Grand Rapids held a Christmas Gala to benefi t the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan to support the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan’s Camp Discovery.

West Michigan’s EPS Security (EPS) has been recognized by First Alert Professional®, a premier dealer program of Honeywell Security, with fi ve honors at this year’s Connect 2013 awards. This is the fourth consecutive year EPS has received multiple awards at the national convention of security and life safety professionals, held at the JW Marriot in Los Angeles; EPS was honored with the top Marketing Excellence Award at this year’s event, a distinction given to just one of the more than 300 First Alert Professional dealers nationwide.


Experience Grand Rapids (EXGR) and the Kent County Lodging Association (KCLA) announced the 2013 winners of the 6th Annual Way Above Visitor Expectations (WAVE) Awards. Winners included Ian Kirkwood, CTA, Country Inn & Suites East Beltline; Kevin Trasky, SpringHill Suites North; Leonne VanDevelde, Ferris Coff ee & Nut Co.; and Gabriel Rains, Founders Brewing Co.

Fredrick D. Dilley, a shareholder in Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC’s Grand Rapids offi ce, was elected to serve as Vice-Chair on the Board of Trustees for the Michigan State University College of Law.

Elected and appointed offi cials as well as representatives from DP Fox Sports & Entertainment and the Grand Rapids Griffi ns Youth Foundation gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the expansion of the Griff ’s Ice House facility.

HHS, Health Options welcomes the addition of Mary Van Singel as MI Choice Waiver Director. HHS, Health Options also celebrates the selection of Gail Brusseau as their Integrated Care Director.

Holistic Care Approach welcomes Janice Brinkerhoff , LAc, who brings expanded hours for acupuncture and Qigong classes.

Hungerford Nichols CPAs + Advisors welcomes new staff members Chrysostom Rowland, CPA, Lynette Rogell and Libby Shaw.

Kendall College of Art and Design, Ferris State University (KCAD) has announced a restructuring and expansion of its Continuing Studies program.

Kohler Expos is excited to announce a NEW January Bridal Show location, making the fi rst bridal show of the year to be held at the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) in downtown Grand Rapids.

Metro Health Hospital held its Holiday Carnival which included a variety of free events and activities including visits with Santa, games for children and a tree lighting ceremony.

Miller Johnson is pleased to welcome Andrew L. Kortesoja as an Associate in the Grand Rapids offi ce.

Northpointe Bank headquartered in Grand Rapids has opened a mortgage loan center in Chelsea; Northpointe Bank is excited to announce that due to growth in the mortgage lending division, the bank has

hired Craig Wolffi s as Area Manager, David Kuiper as Vice President/Loan Offi ce and Jason Bakker as Vice President/Loan Offi cer.

Opera Grand Rapids—Michigan’s longest running, professional opera production company—is proud to welcome international non-profi t arts administrator Anne Berquist to its team.

Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (O-A-K), a local professional construc on fi rm, announced the opening of a new branch offi ce located in Kalamazoo. O-A-K oversaw the 1,800 square foot construc on build-out for the new space and completed the bulk of architectural design work in-house.Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services announced that Bob VandePol, MSW has been named as president of Pax Crisis Response, the non-profi t subsidiary of Pine Rest.

For the ninth consecutive year, the Michigan Business & Professional Association (MBPA) has named Pl unkett Cooney, as one of the Metropolitan Detroit’s 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For.

Praxis Packaging Solutions, a contract packaging company headquartered in Grand Rapids, announced the addition of Scott Volkert to their business development team.

Rhoades McKee announced that it will re-locate its law offi ce to Riverfront Plaza. With an anticipated occupancy date of June 2014, the fi rm will occupy the second and third fl oors and lease over 39,000 square feet with an opportunity for continued expansion. Additionally, Timothy R. Dudley and G. Will Furtado have joined the fi rm as associates, and Mark E. Fatum has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers.

The Salvation Army Kroc Center held its annual Breakfast with Santa, a family event that featured a candy cane scavenger hunt, Christmas storybook reading, and breakfast buff et.

Senior Neighbors, Inc. is pleased to announce the following new members on their board of directors: Elizabeth Harrell, Harold G. Kettner, Julie W. Metsker, Kelli Miller, Russell M. Ripma, Terry Z. Rostic, and Martha E. Wardlow. The offi cers of the Senior Neighbors

2013-2014 board of directors include: David J. Mazur, D.O., Linsey Aten, Randall J. Janiczek, CPA, and Jeff ery F. Swain.

Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge is pleased to announce attorneys Charles J. Pike and Anders J. Gillis have joined Smith Haughey.

Superior Asphalt, Inc. was recently showcased in two major trade publications. The company was highlighted by the National Asphalt Paving Association in an article about strengthening community relations for asphalt plants, and the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association fall publication featured an in-depth profi le of Superior Asphalt.

Hillary Malone Tilton, an existing Sylvan Learning franchisee in West Michigan has expanded her business and assumed ownership of six centers in Minneapolis, MN.

The West Michigan Sports Commission held its fourth annual Yule Run, I’ll Walk Family Fun Event. Gymnastics on the Grand was held at the DeVos Place Convention Center; hosted by Grand Rapids Gymnastics, this three day event (sanctioned by USA Gymnastics) featured 2,000 gymnasts, 54 teams both boys and girls from the Midwest region, and brought in thousands of spectators to the Grand Rapids area.

West Michigan Woman magazine announced that they are seeking to partner with a local charity for its signature charity event, Wine & Wig, in 2014. West Michigan Woman magazine is owned and published by Serendipity Media LLC, a local, Grand Rapids-based company. Serendipity Cares, the philanthropic arm of Serendipity Media LLC, specifi cally supports Education, Women’s Health, and Community Development.

Wondergem Consulting, Inc., a Grand Rapids-based public and government relations and issues management fi rm, announces the appointment of Tom Hanley, APR, as senior consultant, director of public relations services.

WZZM 13, the Gannett owned ABC affi liate in Grand Rapids, is pleased to announce the addition of award winning journalist, John Hogan, to their Watchdog Investigative Team.

January 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield MichiganThe Chamber News12

NEW Members

Please join us in welcoming the following companies to the Chamber. We encourage you to do business with Chamber members!

American Medical Response\AMRCrisis/Emergency Service (616) 459-8228www.amr.netMs. Becky BriggsAdministrative Assistant

Applebee’sRestaurants/Cafes (Loc., Equip., Supplies) (616) 977-1900www.applebees.comMr. Brent DubayGeneral Manager

Artesian GroupContractors(616) 776-9955www.theartesiangroup.net/ Ms. Angel GonzalezOwner

Associated Petroleum Industries of Michigan

Gas/Oil/Fuel(517) 372-7455www.api.org

Bevelwise Marketing(616) 726-2800 www.bevelwise.com

Crescendo Business Alliance Consultants(610) 842-7627http://crescendoba.com/Ms. Mary Beth LaBellePresident

du jour fi ne catering Caterers/Personal Chefs(616) 724-4420www.dujourfi necatering.comMs. Evon VargazOwner/Operator

GR Outdoor Advertising(616) 874-8283 www.groutdoor.comMs. Kaitlyn DisselkoenDirector of Sales & Marketing

Grand Rapids Law Group, PLLC Legal Services(616) 530-0101www.grandrapidslawgroup.com/ Mr. Christopher AcklinPartner

IHOPRestaurants/Cafes (Loc., Equip., Supplies) (616) 956-0494www.ihop.comMr. Walid JamalFranchisee

Mayan Buzz Cafe’ Restaurants/Cafes (Loc., Equip., Supplies)(616) 608-3052Ms. Mary RoseManaging Partner

MCPc, Inc.Computers/Technology(616) 402-9110www.mcpc.comMr. Adam ZoblRegional Operations Manager

OzmottMarketing(231) 421-5763www.ozmott.com

PriorityHR Human Resources(616) 437-7377www.priorityhr.comMr. Jim CoxPartner

RDI Homes, Inc.Builders/Developers(616) 277-1584www.rdicompanies.com

Ronald J. Kaley, LLCAccounting(616) 773-1093www.ronkaley.com

Sandler Training - Grand Rapids Training/Development(616) 550-9402www.spp.sandler.comMs. Denise SherwoodPartner/Co-Owner

Senior PGA Championship Presented By KitchenAidGolf(269) 487-3200www.spga2014.comMr. Jeff HintzChampionship Director

Sky Zone Grand RapidsSports & Recreation(616) 214-4221www.skyzonesports.comMr. Brent Breems Owner/CEO

Standard Lumber/Standard KitchensBuilding Supplies(616) 243-3655www.standardlumber.com

The Cheney Place Banquet/Meeting Facilities(616) 574-6212www.thecheneyplace.com

The Golf Club at Thornapple PointeGolf(616) 554-4747www.thornapplepointe.comMr. Chris SobieckGeneral Manager

Visual Workplace Inc Signs/Displays(616) 583-9400www.visualworkplaceinc.comMs. Dorothy RamosBusiness Development

Wheelz Sales & Leasing Inc.Automotive (616) 285-3308 www.wheelzinc.com Mr. Christopher Hoexum President


SMART Business

Janaury Member Ribbon Cutting Celebrations15 | ValPak of Western Michigan, 3:00 p.m. 1500 East Beltline NE, 616.261.262628 | Windstream, 3:00 p.m. 40 Monroe Center NW, Suite 201, 616.389.1002

Seminars7 & 8 | Speak Up & Be Eff ective™ - Advanced – Learn how to communicate with impact through oral presentation skills and body language to create focused, concise, and activating messages that infl uence others and project style and pres-ence of today’s leaders. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7070 for details.

16 | Speak Up & Be Eff ective™ – Communicate with confi dence! In this program, you will learn how to think on your feet, project more confi dence, manage your nerves, and craft messages that are clear, concise and focused. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7070 for details.

23 | FREE Lunch & Learn, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. – Brain Science and the Workplace presented by Thought Design Learning Studio: In today’s world, the organizations that out-learn, out-think, and out-create their competition will be the leaders in their fi eld. Learn how the latest fi ndings in neuroscience are being applied to do just that. RSVP at [email protected] or call 616.951.1336.

February Seminars5 & 6 | Speak Up & Be Eff ective™ - Advanced– Learn how to communicate with impact through oral presentation skills and body language to create focused, concise, and activating messages that infl uence others and project style and pres-ence of today’s leaders. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7070 for details.

MEMBER SEMINARS, EVENTS& CELEBRATIONS

The U.S. has achieved something that fi ve years ago seemed like impossibility, according to national economics commentator Stephen Moore of the Wall Street Journal. Namely, the technological advances made in horizontal fracturing have put America on a path to energy independence and future economic gains.

Moore notes that America, without instituting policies like “cap and trade,” has reduced its carbon emissions more than any other country in the world because of greater access to natural gas. “We’re not running out of oil and natural gas—we’re running into it,” Moore told the Chamber, noting there is need for more gas infrastructure.

Currently, the U.S. has some of the cheapest energy in the world. Moore predicts that the U.S. is seven to eight years away from energy independence, which has many geopolitical implications. Already, Moore sees diminishing interest in the Middle East.

Related to energy, he also predicted that the Keystone XL pipeline will begin construction within a couple of years because “it would be too stupid not to do.” Today, energy accounts for nearly half of U.S. GDP and contributes signifi cantly to job growth. In some places, like North Dakota, unemployment is down to three percent or even negative—thanks in large part to gas production and infrastructure.

What’s more, the U.S. continues to compete well globally. Moore reports that U.S. companies are lean mean fi ghting machines and the real hurdle holding this economy back is fear and uncertainty that remains. Corporations in the U.S. are sitting on $1.5 trillion and, with no infl ation anticipated in the next three quarters, we are positioned well to perform against the rest of the world.

Although we may be headed for an era of increased economic prosperity, however, Moore is concerned about the increasing of various taxes on the wealthy. He worries that continuation down such a path directly discourages investment and constrains job growth.

A self-described optimist, Moore is hopeful despite the current challenges facing America, and he argues that Washington D.C. will eventually have to get its head on straight (which may require us to “elect better people”) in order to create a stronger consensus around tax code, immigration, federal debt, infrastructure and other issues that are holding us back. When this happens, he contends, we could be headed for a remarkable period of growth.

This information is taken from Stephen Moore, Senior Economics Writer & EditorialBoard Member for the Wall Street Journal, as presented at the Chamber’s Business Matters Series in December 2013.

Bold Predictions: America’s Energy Boom & Future Prosperity

“The more they drill, the more they fi nd.” - Stephen Moore

continued on page 14

14 The Chamber News January 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan

RENEWING Members

Thank you to the following companies that renewed their memberships last month. We are glad to have you and your employees with us.

20+ Years of Membership

The McCahill GroupFitzgerald’s Men’s StoreThe Windquest Group, Inc.Baker HoltzMortgage 1, Inc.Escape World TravelFlex Administrators, Inc.Tannewitz, Inc.Westgrand Service CompanyApex Spring & Stamping CorporationOffi ce Depot, Inc.


Dan Vos Construction Co. Inc.Dickinson Press Inc.P & F Supply Company, Inc.CHASEPADNOS


Offi ce Depot, Inc.Calder Investment AdvisorsColliers InternationalGrand Rapids Griffi nsHull Lift Truck, Inc.Steenland Insurance Agency, Inc.Wal-Mart Store 2493Masselink DairyPhysicians’ Organization of Western Michigan, Inc.Lawrence ProductionsAerotek, Inc.Partners In Action, Inc.Westgate BowlCovenant Village of the Great LakesKeller Williams RealtyGrand Valley Auto PartsMBK Corporate Promotions, LLCUniversal Sign, Inc.WilliamCharles Search GroupService Express, Inc.Hispanic Center of Western MichiganHomewatch CaregiversFCI Automation


Contech Enterprises (US), Inc.Hickey Combs PLCHolistic Care ApproachJim Roberts Enterprises LLCKids’ Food BasketMast Thoroughbreds LLCMetal Art Studio Fine JewelryWest Brook Recovery Center LLCIntegrated Strategies Inc.NuWave Technology PartnersRHD TireVizCom MediaWestern Michigan Supply LLCWorld MissionBrandenberg Capital Management CorporationEagle Claims Management LLCExceed Consulting LLCGallery of FramesGrand Rapids AwningsMarketingHelp!Serendipity Media

One Year of Membership

Carter Products Company, Inc.Dixon Interior DesignDwelling Place of Grand Rapids, Inc.Ez Optical Savings PlanGrand Rapids Apartments For Rent.com-The MagazineGrand Rapids Home for VeteransJ Parker McCollum, Inc.Kilkenny Sales, LLCKraft Business SystemsMaple Hill Golf CourseMichigan Health ConnectMullen Coins, LLCOak Crest Health Care Services, Inc.Reliable Management Systems IncSysco Food Services of Grand RapidsVITG Global LLCWeb KujengaWonderland Tire Company


PADNOS - Leitelt DivisionRhoades McKee PC


FCI AutomationMediterranean IslandThe Breton GroupNawara Bros. Appliance, TV, Bedding & HardwarePremier Dental Lab, Inc.R.L. Brehm & AssociatesRizzo Packaging Inc.Behavioral Resources & Institute for Neuropsycholgical Services (BRAINS)Burgess Painting LLCBurnham & Dells AdvisorsBurr & CompanyDWHHessel-Cheslek Funeral HomeMasonic Temple AssociationMiller Consultants & Elections, Inc./Election SourceCascade Hills Country ClubParks TitlePipp Mobile Storage Systems, Inc.Railside Living CenterTop of the List Search Engine MarketingArie Nol Auto Center, Inc.DPTGL Resources, Inc.Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women (GROW)Jon DeGraaf Painting Inc.Lafl eur & Godfrey LLCOnSite Wellness LLCSymplicity Communications, Inc.

Date Unknown

Merrill Lynch

February Member Seminars, from page 13

12 & 25 | Speak Up & Be Eff ective™ – Communicate with confi dence! In this program, you will learn how to think on your feet, project more confi dence, manage your nerves, and craft messages that are clear, concise and focused. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7070 for details.

20 | FREE Happy Hour Workshop, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. – Brain Science and the Workplace presented by Thought Design Learning Studio: In today’s world, the organizations that out-learn, out-think, and out-create their competition will be the leaders in their fi eld. Learn how the latest fi ndings in neuroscience are being applied to do just that. RSVP at [email protected] or call 616.951.1336.


INDIVIDUAL PLANS | GROUP HEALTH PLANS | DENTAL | VISION | bcbsm.com

The right health plan can protect your employees’ health and everything else you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

Find out what thousands of Michigan businesses already know. Visit bcbsm.com/employers for more information.

is the reason.the sum of all my hard work

Your Chamber Exclusively Endorses

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Do you need smart solutions for your data, voice, networking, and cloud-based needs? Take advantage of our new Windstream Corporate Affi nity Partnership, a new membership perk at the Chamber!

Windstream, a FORTUNE 500 and S&P 500 company, is a leading provider of advanced network communications, including cloud computing and managed services, to businesses nationwide.

The Windstream Corporate Affi nity Partnership is a specialized program that off ers Chamber mem-bers communication and technology solutions (including data, voice, networking, phone systems and data centers) at competitive prices.

When you work with Windstream, you can benefi t from:• high-quality solutions for data, voice, network security, disaster recovery, cloud and data centers, and equipment• complimentary communications analysis to better understand your current and future company

needs, including a plan to meet your business goals• industry-leading technical expertise and unsurpassed service and support

Whether you run a small business or a multi-location enterprise—seeking fi ber, copper or wireless solutions—Windstream can help meet your business needs.

For more information on this benefi t or other member benefi ts, please visit www.grandrapids.org/costsavings or contact Mark Allen at [email protected] or 616.771.0348.

New Chamber Benefi t! Windstream Corporate Affi nity Partnership

111 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids, MI 49503

PERIODICALPOSTAGE

PAIDGRAND RAPIDS, MI

Shark Tank Comes to GR: Don’t Miss the 126th Annual MeetingFeaturing keynote Daymond John, Shark Tank Investor & Entrepreneur

Don’t miss your chance to connect with more than 500 leaders and professionals from the West Michigan business community. Come to swim with the sharks on January 21!

We’re featuring ABC’s Shark Tank investor, entrepreneur, and fashion icon Daymond John (a.k.a. The Shark) as our keynote speaker. We’re highlighting member successes, introducing Doug Dozeman of Warner Norcross & Judd, LLP as chairperson of our Board of Directors, and sharing the Chamber’s plans for 2014.

If you need inspiration for growing your business, be sure to join us to hear Daymond John as he shares his business insights and strategies that he used build his multimillion-dollar empire.

With an all-American success story and innovative marketing and branding techniques, Daymond is one of the most successful fashion icons of his generation and a highly sought-after branding expert, author, consultant, and speaker. He is the founder of the urban apparel and lifestyle fashion brand FUBU (For Us By Us), an investor on ABC’s “Shark Tank” TV show, and creator of his own innovative branding and marketing consulting fi rm, Shark Branding.

Take the plunge. Dive in and join us at the Chamber’s 126th Annual Meeting!

Date | Tuesday, January 21, 2014Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Location | JW Marriott, 235 Louis Campau Promenade NWCost | $50 Chamber Members, $75 Future Members, Corporate Table (10 seats) – $700 for Members, $800 for Future MembersRegistration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/annual-meeting or call 616.771.0303.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for this event. Contact Diane Cisler at [email protected] or 616.771.0357 to sponsor.

Exclusive Presenting Sponsor Event Underwriters

january 2014 chamber news

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