tcn september 2014

continued on page 4

THE CHAMBER NEWSSeptember 2014 | Vol. 14 | No. 9

A publication of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

Sieger will be honored with the prestigious ATHENA Award during the Chamber’s 25th ATHENA Awards Celebration luncheon at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel on September 18. The ATHENA Award recognizes Sieger for her outstanding leader-ship and support of women both within her organization and throughout the greater Grand Rapids community.

“Diana is a dedicated leader and truly an influential woman in Grand Rapids who not only serves this community and leads positive social change, but also strives to foster future leaders and create an inclusive, supportive culture within her organization,” said Rick Baker, President and CEO of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce.

Congratulations to our 2014 ATHENA® Award Recipient, Diana R. Sieger, President of Grand Rapids Community Foundation!

Women-owned businesses are a powerhouse of economic vitality—nationally generating $1.3 trillion each year and 57% of all new jobs projected by 2018. In the process, they are also creating a more diverse and productive business climate.

“I think that Grand Rapids will become more diverse in the job offerings and will grow an even stronger culture base with the growing influx of women-owned businesses over the past 10 years,” said Nancy Metzger, CEO and owner of Brittanie’s Thyme LLC, a manufacturer of USDA certified organic skin care, outdoor care, and aromatherapy products.

That’s something Kathy Dennison Adrianse, owner and broker of Lighthouse Property Management, LLC, also sees happening. “Our business community is successful because of the diversity of our business owners,” she said.

“I’m so lucky to be in my role as a woman business owner,” Dennison Adrianse added. “There is an expectation that when a woman owns a business, she will be passionate about caring for the needs of her clients.” And Dennison Adrianse delivers on that ideal—performing energy efficiency upgrades and managing every one of her 850 rental homes across three counties as if they were her own. She also cares for her staff and 127 private real estate investors like they were family.

For Debra Minton, president and owner of Philanthropia Partners—a

consultancy that works with non-profits to develop strategic and innovative fundraising initiatives—there are many more opportunities for women-owned businesses to provide excellence in the larger economy. “I would encourage the business community to look for women-owned businesses for their needs. Women have a high customer service orientation and deliver top-notch services,” she said. “They value business relationships and regularly go the extra mile to satisfy clients.”

Packed with Power: Women-Owned Businesses

Cele

brating 25th Anniversary

2

5

7

8-9

Business Matters presents Journey to Leadership with Meredith Bronk of OST

15

LEADERSHIP: An Inside-Out Perspective, a new Center for Community Leadership offering

Women entrepreneurs wow in this month’s Members in the Spotlight feature

Chamber Scene returns, plus Business After Hours features Minority Business Showcase

CONTENTS

13 Smart Business: Sales is NOT Marketing

Check out what drives Grand Rapids’ entrepreneurial hub with Inside Grand Rapids

ATHENA Awards Celebration Honors Diana Sieger, Sept. 18

continued on page 4

www.grandrapids.org2 The Chamber News September 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan

CHAMBER News & Notes

The Chamber News Editorial Policy

Hear Meredith Bronk, President of Open Systems Technologies (OST), share her Journey to Leadership and the lessons learned in the high-tech field at the next Business Matters Series breakfast.

Named OST’s new president in February 2014, Bronk has helped shepherd the company’s diversified growth to $100 million. Bronk has gleaned many lessons of leadership since joining OST in 1998—leveraging her diverse experience while serving as vice president of internal operations and chief operating officer.

As a key part of the leadership team, Bronk understands the needs of a dynamic, growing organization. Garner new insights from hearing how she’s tackled new challenges, grown the company, and succeeded in her changing roles.

Date | Tuesday, September 16, 2014Time | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.

Location | GVSU Seidman College of Business, 50 Front Ave. SWCost | $20/member early registration, $25/future member or late registration after 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 11 (includes hot breakfast).

Registration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/business-matters to register or call 616.771.0303.

Exclusive Premier Sponsor:

BUSINESSMATTERS SERIES

Save the Date! Denise Sherwood, Partner and Co-Owner of Sandler Training, returns to lead a NEW Business Matters Workshop.

Date | Tuesday, September 23, 2014 Time | 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. Location | Sandler Training, 2610 Horizon Dr. SE, Suite 110 Cost | $10, limited to 30 people

Registration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/busi-ness-matters to register or call 616.771.0303.

Thirty non-profit organizations and over 125 attendees made new connections while seeking the right community service match at Board Connect 2014 on Thursday, August 14 at DeVos Place.

The event hosted by the Center for Community Leadership (CCL)—in partnership with the Latino Talent Initiative at Ferris State University, the Heart of West Michigan United Way’s Project Blueprint and the Urban Core Collective’s Transformational Leaders Program—aimed to link local area non-profit organizations with potential board members, committee members, or volunteers.

“Board Connect was created to connect our program graduates with opportunities for leadership within our community. All of our programs are working to fill the pipeline of community leaders in Grand Rapids,” said Kim McLaughlin, Director of Center for Community Leadership (CCL).

Non-profits looking for their next generation of volunteer leadership applied and were invited to attend based upon the interests of leadership program graduates. Participating program graduates—many of whom have previously completed non-profit board training offered by the Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University—then met with the non-profits during the Board Connect event in 10-minute, pre-scheduled timeslots similar to a job fair.

“We don’t expect every non-profit to walk away from the evening with four new board members,” said McLaughlin, noting the work and time that goes into establishing a quality board relationship. “But, we hope that Board Connect was that first step for our program graduates to learn about opportunities to serve in our community and what that commitment looks like.”

Board Connect was made possible with the support from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, the Grand Rapids/Kent County Convention Authority and the Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University.

Board Connect 2014 Taps Community Leaders

www.grandrapids.org 3www.grandrapids.org September 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan The Chamber News

Recycle Me

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/ribbon-cuttings to see how we can applaud your business milestone.

An Open House celebration was hosted at the newly renovated Homewood Suites by Hilton at 3920 Stahl Drive SE.

BIG SCISSORS on the Move

The Chamber News Editorial PolicyArticles written by outside authors do not necessarily reflect 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 conflicts 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: Latricia Trice | [email protected] Editor: AliciaMarie Belchak | [email protected]: Karen Thelen | [email protected] Advertising: Diane Cisler | [email protected]

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

La Poderosa 640AM, West Michigan’s only Hispanic Radio Station located at 1350 28th Street SW celebrated their 10th anniversary.

A business growth celebration was hosted by Rattunde Corporation in their new facility at 5080 Beltway Drive SE.

Bay Pointe Inn set a beautiful scene for their 10th anniversary celebration at 11456 Marsh Road in Shelbyville.

Orion Construction hosted a ground breaking ceremony on the future site of the Arena Place development at 55 Ottawa Ave SW.

The Grand Rapids Chamber was the scene for Stingray Advisory Group’s grand opening celebration.

The groundbreaking celebration was held at the site of the anticipated Tanger Outlet Mall located in Byron Center at U.S. 131 and 84th Street.

Metal Art Studio Fine Jewelry celebrated in style the relocation to their newly renovated building at 978 Cherry Street SE.


feature continued from cover

Exclusive Premier Sponsor: Exclusive Finalists Reception Underwriter: Diamond Sponsors:

Sieger’s career extends over 40 years of passion for excellence and of making a positive impact in every facet of community life. As president of the Grand Rapids Community Foundation for nearly 27 years, Sieger has led financial and strategic assistance on many difficult and key issues facing the area. Under her leadership, the community-based philanthropic organization increased in financial assets from $35 million in 1987 to more than $320 million in 2014—significantly raising the level of influence and reach of the Foundation within the community.

In addition, Sieger has implemented innovative practices for attracting and retaining high-performing talent at the Foundation by recognizing work-life balance, creating family-friendly policies and “kid-friendly” spaces, and encouraging staff to pursue their educational aspirations and personal development. Recently, the Chamber recognized the Community Foundation for their sustained efforts and exemplary work in supporting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture.

Sieger counts being named as one of 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan by the Grand Rapids Business Journal in 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2014 among her many accomplishments. In addition, she was honored in 2013 with the Women of Achievement and Courage Award by the Michigan Women’s Foundation as well as the Edward Frey Sr. Distinguished Achievement Award from Junior Achievement of West Michigan. She is a member of Inforum’s Inner Circle since 2010, listed among Who’s Who in America since 2004, and a recipient of the Distinguished Community Trustee Award (2001) and the YWCA Tribute Award (1995).

Along with Sieger, the Chamber salutes nine other finalists for the 2014 ATHENA in honor of their courageous leadership and many accom-plishments: Sharon Caldwall-Newton, Women’s Resource Center; Nancy Hock, Western Michigan University; Rhoda Kreuzer, Partners in Action; Jennifer Maxson, Varnum Consulting; Bonnie Nawara, Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women; Sandi Frost Steensma, Parrish Consulting; Kimberly Suarez, Priority Health; Marge Wilson, Marge’s Donut Den.

Join us in honoring Sieger, these outstanding finalists and find out who will be the 2014 ATHENA Young Professional at the Athena Awards Celebration!

Date | Thursday, September 18, 2014 Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Location | Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Ambassador

Ballroom, 187 Monroe Avenue NW Cost | $50 Chamber Member, $75 Future Member, $700

Corporate Table (10 seats) Registration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/athena-celebration

or call 616.771.0303 to RSVP.

“The ATHENA is the pinnacle for awards for female leaders in our community, and I’m honored to have been selected this year. Ensuring that established and emerging women leaders are heard, respected and have a seat at the table is something I am committed to influencing and working toward,” Sieger said.

[Although Kristin Britt, partner and attorney at Britt Morant P.C., sees a strong support system for female business owners in Grand Rapids, she would like to see more women in business at all levels. “More women need to become executives and CEOs as well as serving on corporate boards and in government,” she said, noting how both men and

women have been huge advocates in her own personal success.

Certainly, there are still challenges that female entrepreneurs face. Metzger herself noted that her role as a woman business owner has been full of challenges as well as rewards. “I find that women do

have a harder time getting traditional financing, especially in the early stages of their company,” she said, recalling her own personal journey from professional esthetician to manufacturer of skin care products. For her, getting the right resources at the right time was essential—resources like Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women (G.R.O.W.) and the Grand Rapids Area Chamber.

Likewise Dennison Adrianse found advice and inspiration through her Chamber CEO Roundtable, which she calls “the single best meeting of my month.” And for Minton, she found connecting with other powerhouse women through Inforum and the Chamber made all the difference.

“Women are starting businesses in Grand Rapids and all over Michigan,” Minton mused. “This segment of the economy will continue to grow, and there are plenty of resources available and ready to assist.”

continued from cover

ATHENA Awards Celebration

Packed with Power: Women-Owned Businesses


“LEADERSHIP: An Inside-Out Perspective”Leadership: An Inside-Out Perspective is a new program being offered this year by the Center for Community Leadership. Limited to 10 participants, this program is geared toward seasoned profes-sionals who currently serve as functional leaders, managers or project leads.

The program is grounded in the Immunity to Change™ model, a framework that offers an opportunity for transformative development personally and professionally. Participants are respectfully guided in identifying hidden mental models and assumptions that impede progress in achieving their goals. They are supported in going beyond identifying these

hidden barriers to establishing new perspectives and associated behaviors that previously seemed out of reach.

Four, three-hour sessions conducted over a two-month time frame will be facilitated by Barbara Rapaport, a tenured executive coach who employs a wide range of learning methodologies. These methodologies are aimed at optimizing the results of deep personal reflection, case studies, and group discussions.

For 2014 program dates and additional information about LEADERSHIP: An Inside-Out Perspective, please visit www.grandrapids.org/ccl-leadership or contact Kim McLaughlin at [email protected] or 616.771.0317.

New! CCL Launches

michiganworkska.org/employers

Our business services team can:

SUPPLEMENT your existing

(or non-existent) HR dept

UPSCALE your existing workforce

with training funds

PROVIDE on-the-job training funds

for new employees

[email protected]

Let’s get started today!

2014 WEST MICHIGAN POLICY FORUM

FEATURED SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Ruby Payne, Author, PhD, CEO aha! Process

Charles Krauthammer

Fox News Contributor

Governor Rick Snyder

“Michigan: A Look Ahead”

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 &MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

SESSIONS INCLUDE:

Please visit www.wmpolicyforum.com/events for additional speaker and agenda information.

The WMPF Report Card: “Moving up the Ranks”

Talent: Where does West Michigan Stand?

Should Michigan Consider Term Limit Modifications?


On August 5, Michigan’s citizens approved Proposal 1 with 69% percent of the vote. The Grand Rapids Area Chamber extends its thanks to our members and partners for supporting and advocating for Proposal 1.

The passage of Proposal 1 is a key step in Michigan’s continued economic comeback and solidifies important legislative reforms of the Personal Property Tax (PPT). Voters approved Proposal 1 to:

• Immediately eliminate the PPT on small businesses• Phase out the PPT on manufactures over the next nine years • Ensure 100% reimbursement to local governments and

schools for lost PPT revenue

The Chamber worked with the Citizens for Strong and Safe Communities—a coalition of individuals and groups across the

state—to educate the public and our members on this important issue. To inform our members and the public, we took advantage of every type of medium. We traveled across West Michigan speaking at community organization meetings, helped organize and participate in press events, spoke on radio shows, authored op-eds, participated in news interviews, answered calls from the public, sent countless emails and social media updates, and engaged Chamber members to share their PPT stories.

Chamber members supported our efforts and advocacy by submitting letters to editors, speaking with their employees, hosting press events, and sharing their stories of the negative impact PPT has had on their business.

The passage of Proposal 1 is a victory for small businesses, manufacturers, and our local communities. For too long small businesses and manufacturers have been hurt by this burdensome double tax. With bipartisan support we were able to eliminate this antiquated tax while protecting our local communities. Proposal 1 is another example of how Michigan is showing the country we are working together and open for business.

PROPOSAL 1 PASSES: Businesses & Communities Benefit

The primary election is behind us and the legislature will soon be back in Lansing where they will need to address some significant issues prior to the general election. In addition to our legislative panel, hear from our guest speaker Dan Koorndyk, Chair of the Kent County Board of Commissioners.

Breakfast with Legislators provides Chamber members and their employees the opportunity to establish relationships with key decision makers and voice opinions on issues moving forward in Lansing.

Date | Monday, September 22, 2014Time | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.Location | Hope Network, 775 36th Street SECost | $15 per person, $20/late registration after 5:00 p.m. on

September 18Registration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/breakfast-with-legislators

or call 616.771.0303.

Questions? Contact Josh Lunger at [email protected] or 616.771.0336.

Breakfast with Legislators In August, educators and businesses collaborated to develop relationships and real-world experiences that lead to a stronger workforce. The annual Educator in the Work-place program, hosted by the Grand Rapids Area Chamber in partnership with the Kent Intermediate School District (KISD), connects West Michigan teachers with local businesses for a hands-on immersion ex-perience in the private sector.

A dozen local enterprises participated this year—provid-ing teachers with a unique, behind-the-scenes experience: Alliance Analytical Laborato-ries, Autocam Corporation,

Breton Village Pediatric & Family Medicine, Davenport University, Firstronic, Hospice of Michigan, L-3 Avionics Systems, Lacks Enterprises, Metro Health Hospital, NxGenMDx, Pleune Services, and Spectrum Health.

Teachers in the three-day program gained a deeper understanding of the realities facing businesses and the skills necessary for success in the workforce. The program culminated in a closing discussion about their experiences and how to better prepare students for the future and their careers.

Questions? Contact Allie Bush at [email protected] or 616.771.0311.

Educators Learn Workplace Lessons

Event Host Sponsor: Series Underwriter:


MEMBERS In The Spotlight

Since 2001, Advantage Mechanical Refrigeration, Inc. (AMR) has been a full service mechanical contractor for industrial, commercial, and institutional customers. AMR installs, maintains and services heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration (HVACR) and all plumbing and piping systems—all on a 24/7 service model.

A woman-owned business employing 13 and a Mechanical Service Contractors of America (MSCA) STAR Qualified contractor, AMR works with a diverse customer base—everything from nursing homes, colleges, office and industrial buildings, libraries, retail sites, and federal government facilities in the State of Michigan.

“I love business plain and simple, but I especially love owning and managing the type of business whose clientele are other businesses,” said CEO & Owner Jodi Vanden Berg. “When we begin serving a new customer, we find out as much as we can about their particular business—what is most important for them, how we can help make the purchasers’ and facility managers’ job easier, and help their business run smoother in relation to our services.”

Among those services, AMR also includes energy services and bench-marking using EPA’s ENERGY STAR™ guidelines—something that Vanden Berg notes is not typical of a smaller mechanical contractor. “Because energy savings go straight to the bottom line starting with the next month’s utility bill, energy should be the first place to cut costs,” she said. “Our Energy Benchmark™ service is a quick and easy way to assess the level of energy consumption and how it compares to similar buildings. It’s the first step down the path to increased profitability and asset value through lower operating costs.”

While Vanden Berg acknowledges that women in the construction and mechanical trade is still not that common, she sees leadership and team culture as the important threads to her business success. “I view my employees as my customers as well,” she noted. “I couldn’t do this without them, and I enjoy coaching, encouraging, and motivating them to be all they can be both in their personal and professional lives.”

Vanden Berg shares her leadership skills by serving on the executive board of the West Michigan Mechanical Contractors Association for the last six years. Now also a new Chamber member through that partnership with the West Michigan Minority Contractors Association (WMMCA) she said, “I see the benefit of membership already with the networking aspect alone, and I look forward to meeting many more business professionals.”

Find out more about AMR at www.advmechref.com.

In 1993, Witte reincorporated as r.o.i. Design to focus specifically on the interior design business. Today, r.o.i. Design has expanded its services to also include concept design, space planning, graphic design, construction documents and product fulfillment. r.o.i. Design works on projects for owners and contractors developing interior spaces for retail, hospitality, workplace, religious, and public spaces.

“We work directly with a wide-range of business owners as well as architects and engineers, creating concepts through all details needed to complete a design,” said Witte. “We also work with senior care hotel properties in providing furnishings through procurement, helping the client select the best value based on design and then manage the purchasing, receiving, staging and delivery of products.”

Witte has also added Accelerate ROI, a team and performance training consultancy. Accelerate ROI aims to help companies build trust within their organization—both among the members of the company and between the company and its customers.

“It is an interesting story how this service became part of our service offering,” noted Witte, retelling how during one project she and her team stumbled upon an arguing business owner and contractor who needed help resolving conflict over communication and remodel planning. “Because r.o.i. Design had gone through some performance training, we thought we might be of some help and worked with key folks in the organization in order to bring everyone along,” said Witte. That success grew into a new aspect of her business.

A long-time Chamber member, Witte has benefited from being in three different CEO Roundtable and sees the Chamber as a valuable resource and connector. “It’s an ambassador for our city to new companies and new employees,” she said. “Their promotion of our city and our economics has helped all of us. Having worked in other cities, I am very grateful for the consistency of the Chamber in their programs and resources.”

Discover more at www.roidesign.com.

Mary Witte, president and owner of r.o.i. Design & Accelerate ROI, has been an entrepreneur in commercial interior

design and architecture since 1985 when she purchased Designers Workshop.

Having had the opportunity to work with restaurant design as well as millwork and

furniture design, her company has gone through a constant evolution and reinvention.

www.grandrapids.org8 The Chamber News September 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan8

The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and the West Michigan Minority Contractors Association (WMMCA) are partnering together to bring you a special combined Business After Hours and Minority Business Showcase—scheduled for Wednesday, October 29.

Last year’s Minority Business Showcase presented 32 minority-owned companies to 177 attendees. Exhibitors included businesses in diverse sectors such as arts, food services, insurance, business services, consulting and more.

Attending the combined event is a great way to expand your base of vendors or suppliers, make valuable business contacts, and discover how minority-owned entrepreneurs add to our economy.

The Chamber and WMMCA are working together to ensure a more diverse business building opportunity for all who attend or exhibit. Join us!

CHAMBER Scene

Business After Hours Features Minority Business Showcase

Date | Wednesday, October 29, 2014Time | 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.Location | Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St. SWCost | Free to attend, however registration is required. Open to the publicExhibit Fees | $50 members of the Chamber or WMMCA, $75 future members—

Must be 51% owned and operated or controlled by an ethnic minority (Asian/Pacific Island, Black/African/African American, Hispanic, or Native American) to exhibit.

Exhibitor space is limited, so please reserve your booth today by contacting Ciciley Moore, [email protected] or 616.771.0320.

Show your support for the minority business community by becoming an event sponsor. Contact Diane Cisler at [email protected] or 616.771.0357 for details.

Hello West Michigan hosted the first ever West Michigan Intern Connect on July 30. Interns toured 18 downtown locations, heard from 8 influential community speakers, and met with over 60 business executives. Overall, 153 companies were involved and 450 interns participated.

Twenty one professionals of color and guest enjoy the “Art of Dining Out” and making new connections at the JW Marriot, Six.One.Six Restaurant during Restaurant Week Grand Rapids.

Showcase Sponsor:

Attendees of the August 21 ATHENA Leadership Forum & Scholarship Fundraiser discuss the ATHENA tenet Learning at the Kent Country Club. The ATHENA Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to five women over the age of 30 who are going back to school to obtain a degree.

www.grandrapids.org www.grandrapids.org September 2014 | Issue Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan 9The Chamber News

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.

SEPTEMBER 20143 | CEO Roundtable RallyTime | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.Location | Thousand Oaks, 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr. NECost | $35/member, $45 future member

Sponsored by:

10 | New Member ConnectionsTime | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.Location | Covenant Village of the Great Lakes, 2510 Lake Michigan Dr. NWCost | Free for new members within first year of membership, breakfast included.

Sponsored by:

11 | Business Exchange Luncheon Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Location | Prince Conference Center, Calvin College, 1800 E. Beltline Ave. SE Cost | $20/member early registration, $25/member after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 4, $25/future member (may only attend once)

Sponsored by:

16 | Business Matters SeriesTime | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.Location | GVSU Seidman College of Business – Charles W. Loosemore Forum, Room 1008, 50 Front Ave. SWCost | $20/member early registration, $25/future member or late registration after 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 11 (includes hot breakfast)

Sponsored by:

18 | ATHENA Awards CelebrationTime | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Location | Amway Grand Plaza, Ambassador Ballroom, 187 Monroe Ave. NWCost | $50/member, $75/future member, $700 corporate table of 10 (includes lunch)

Sponsored by:

22 | Breakfast with LegislatorsTime | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Location | Hope Network, 775 36th Street SECost | $15/person, $20/late registration after 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 18 (includes hot breakfast)

Sponsored by:

25-26 | Facing RacismDate | Thursday, September 25, 2014 & Friday, September 26, 2014Time | 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. each dayLocation | Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, 1515 Arborteum Dr. SECost | $200 non-profit members, $300 for-profit members, additional $50 for future members

Sponsored by:

TO REGISTER

30 | OutPro September Networking NightTime | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.Location | TBD with ArtPrizeCost | Free to attend

Sponsored by:

OCTOBER 20146-7 | Inside Grand RapidsTimes | Monday night reception from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. with Tuesday tour all day, 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Locations | Various LocationsCost | $200/ per person (non-profit), $300 per person (for-profit)

Sponsored by:

9 | Business Exchange Luncheon Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Location | Prince Conference Center, Calvin College, 1800 E. Beltline Ave. SE Cost | $20/member early registration, $25/member after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, $25/future member (may only attend once)

Sponsored by:

21 | Business Matters SeriesTime | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Location | The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 2500 Division Ave SCost | $20/member early registration, $25/future member or late registration after 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 16 (includes hot breakfast)

Sponsored by:

23-24 | Facing RacismDate | Thursday, October 23, 2014 & Friday, October 24, 2014Time | 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. each dayLocation | Cascade Engineering, 3400 Innovation Court SECost | $200 non-profit members, $300 for-profit members, additional $50 for future members

Sponsored by:

continued on page 11


NEWS FlashesNewsflashes 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: first Friday of each month.

Acrisure announced the appointment of Stan Jablonowski as Chief Operating Officer.

Dr. John C. Pinheiro, professor of history and director of Catholic studies at Aquinas College, has been elected to a four-year term on the National Network Board (NNB) of the Lilly Fellows Program (LFP) in Humanities and the Arts.

Ms. Chelsea Rozek now leads ASTI Environmental’s GIS Department.

AT&T presented a $10,000 contribution to Kalamazoo-based Educating for Freedom in Schools to support after school and summer programs for local students focused on reading skills, culture awareness, and community leadership.

Brightly LLC recently moved into a new office space to accommodate their team of 16 and growing! The most recent additions to the team are Christopher Magnifico, Jessica Holland, Jay Pelc and Emily Noffsinger.

C3 has added another member to their growing team. Ryan Boyk joined C3 as one of their Client Relationship Managers. Congrats Ryan!

CARF International has recently accredited Comprehensive Therapy Center (CTC) for another three years for its services to individuals with special needs.

Central Michigan University’s Global Campus in Grand Rapids will be offering a Master of Arts in Counseling starting Spring 2015—designed for those looking to get their LPC professional licensure or their SCL school counseling licensure.

In honor of National Health Center Week, Cherry Street Health Services hosted

a free Community Appreciation Health Fair at the Catholic Central High School parking lot.

The City of Grand Rapids, State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Heritage Hill Association, South Hill Association and Friends of Grand Rapids Parks celebrated the completion of Pleasant Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Custer announced Dan Bockman as the new owner for its 3D rendering studio, Dart Frog, as well as the addition of Vince Salatino as an Accountant for Custer.

Davenport University proudly announced that it received approval from the Michigan Department of Education as well as from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to offer the Michigan Alternate Route to Interim Teaching Certification (MARITC) through its new College of Urban Education.

John G. Cameron Jr., a lawyer with Dickinson Wright PLLC, was installed as the public director for the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) at the 95th Annual Business Meeting in late June. As a member of the Council’s Board of Directors, Cameron will have full voting rights and will provide the Board with a fresh perspective when making critical decisions. Dickinson Wright’s Real Estate Practice was listed among 2014 Best of the Best by Midwest Real Estate News.

EmploymentGroup announced the winners of its “5 in 5” scholarship program! Students from Grand Rapids Community College, Kalamazoo Valley Community College and Kellogg Community College will receive the scholarship to use as they advance their degree studies.

GMB Architecture + Engineering announced that Jim Johnson has joined the Grand Rapids office as Development Director. Dan Tyrer, Senior Design Architect, has also joined the company and will be working from the Holland office.

Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women (GROW) announced the hiring of two new staff members, Mary Brown as Program Manager and Danielle Brauer as Financial Manager.

The Grand Rapids Griffins’ ticket sales and social media departments were honored as the AHL’s Ticket Sales Department of the Year during the league’s recent marketing meeting before winning the AHL’s Team Business Services award for digital media excellence among Western Conference teams during the Board of Governors’ annual meeting. The Grand Rapids Griffins announced the promotions of Matt Batchelder to vice president of ticket sales, Zack Krywyj to group sales account manager, and Mike Myeno to season ticket sales and customer service account manager. All three played pivotal roles in the Griffins winning the 2013-14 AHL Ticket Sales Department of the Year award.

H&S Companies is excited to announce Laurie A. Russell, CPA as their newest team member, along with her practice in Cascade.

“Andy’s House,” the Habitat for Humanity of Kent County home built in 2013 in honor of the late Andy Angelo, has received LEED Platinum certification.

Grand Rapids Homewood Suites by Hilton and Fairfield Inn by Marriott are pleased to announce the addition of Ashley Ketner to their hotels as Director of Sales.

Hospice of Michigan is pleased to announce that Jodi Gauthier has been selected to receive the 2014 Ansell H.E.R.O. Nurse Service Award.

Hungerford Nichols CPAs + Advisors proudly announced the promotion of Adriane Schrauben and Doug Schmitt to the position of shareholder.


IT Resource is pleased to announce the addition of: David Weber, Network Engineer I; Greg Lundeburg, Help Desk Analyst; Sally Anderson, Receptionist; and Brian Verburg, IT Consultant.

The Kettunen Center held a waterfront dedication ceremony to recognize The Consumers Energy Foundation for their support of the Michigan 4-H Foundation Kettunen Center stewardship and recreation project.

Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) announced the 2014 kick-off of its One Pencil Project, designed to assist cash-strapped community schools. This initiative enters its fourth year, extending the month of August. All LMCU branches became collection sites for donated school supplies. LMCU announced the hiring of Jim Koessel as Senior Vice President and Keane Blaszczynski as Vice President of Commercial Lending.

Lambert, Edwards & Associates announced the addition of Chelsea Dubey as the firm’s director of business development.

Congratulations to Lynch Sales Company on celebrating 100 years of integrity ad results!

Meijer awarded Michigan State University golfer Lindsey McPherson and University of Michigan golfer Grace Choi exemption to play in the Meijer LPGA Classic presented by Kraft, allowing them to complete alongside the best female golfers in the world.

For the fifth time, Metro Health Hospital has been named one of the nation’s most wired hospitals.

Michigan Office Solutions (MOS) proudly announced that it has been recognized as one of the Detroit Metro 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For by the Michigan Business & Professional Association.

Miller Johnson congratulates Sara Lachman on being named as one of Women in the Law 2014 and the addition of Mary Tabin as Member in the Grand Rapids office.

Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (O-A-K) announced the addition of Ryan Nugent as Estimator in the company’s Pre-

Construction Department.

The Law Firm of Plachta, Murphy & Associates P.C. announced a partnership with Mark Postema with Edward Jones Financial to provide free estate and financial planning seminars throughout West Michigan during the summer and fall.

Plante Moran announced four promotions in its Grand Rapids office: Matthew Fegan, promoted to Manager and three promoted to Senior Associate—Mandy Chardoul, CPA, CFP®, Jeremy Louters, CPA, and Nicole Meade, CPA.

Price Heneveld LLP welcomed the addition of Michael C. Pophal as an attorney of the firm and announced the appointment of partner Steven L. Underwood to its three-member Management Committee.

Primerus is growing! They recently welcomed Steve Elworth, Director of Membership, Lisa Dingman-Nowicki, Associate General Counsel and Client Services Manager, and Alicia Bos, Part-time Administrative Assistant to their team.

RE/MAX of Grand Rapids announced it will host the first annual Grand Rapids Balloon Festival in September, held at the home office of Gordon Food Service in Wyoming, MI. Hug a Bear, Metro Health Child Life Services, Paws With a Cause, and Starlight Shores Camp charities will all benefit from the proceeds from this event.

The Sharpe Collection proudly announced that Brian Justema has been designated a Master Sales Guide by Land Rover North America.

SpartanNash announced the promotion of Larry Pierce to Executive Vice President, Merchandising and Marketing.

Varnum attorney Carl E. Ver Beek (and long-time Chamber champion) has received the highest award conferred by the State Bar of Michigan—the Roberts P. Hudson Award—in recognition for his dedication to the legal profession and to his community over the years. Varnum attorney Elizabeth Wells Skaggs has been recognized by Michigan Lawyers Weekly as one of the 2014 Women in the Law. Varnum LLP has once again been ranked in several practice areas in Chambers USA, including Banking and

Finance, Labor and Equipment, Litigation – General Commercial, and Real Estate. Several Varnum attorneys were acknowledged as notable practitioners including David McLeod, Richard Hooker, David Khorey, Lawrence J. Murphy, and Nyal Deems. Labor and Employment Attorney Luis Avila has been named to Lawyers of Color’s Second Annual Hot List, which recognizes early- to mid-career minority attorneys excelling in the legal profession.

Warner Norcross & Judd LLP launched a new Data Solutions Practice Group, making it the first—and only—law firm in Michigan to provide an integrated team approach to full life-cycle support for business data.

The West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC) announced the hiring of Jamie Schlagel, formerly Assistant Athletics Director of Fame and Event Operations at Grand Valley State University, as its new National Sports Sales Manager.

WZZM 13 announced Lee Van Ameyde as new Managing Editor of the WZZM 13 Watchdog Investigative Team and the addition of Nick LaFave as WZZM 13 News Team Co-Anchor of the Monday-Friday evening newscasts with Juliet Dragos.

27 | Breakfast with LegislatorsTime | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Location | Amway World Headquarters, 7575 Fulton St.Cost | $15/person, $20/late registration after 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 23 (includes hot breakfast)

Sponsored by:

29 | Minority Business Showcase & Business After Hours

Time | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.Location | Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St. SWCost | Free to attend, $50 for Chamber & WMMCA members to exhibit, $75 for non-members to exhibit

Note | Exhibitors must be 51% ethnic minority owned/operated

Sponsored by:

continued from page 9


NEW Members

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

123.Net Telecommunications (248) 228-8217 www.123.net

Action Water Sports, Inc. Recreational(616) 896-3100www.actionwater.com Ms. Kristalyn BrouwerOffice Manager

Battalia Winston Employment (312) 704-0050www.battaliawinston.comMr. Richard Folts Partner

Christian Reformed Church in North America Church/Ministries(616) 241-1691www.crcna.org

Clark Retirement CommunitySenior Care/Housing(616) 452-1568www.clarkretirement.orgMr. Casey Montgomery Community Relations Specialist

Data Consultants, Inc Security (616) 235-6860www.dcicompanies.comMr. Nick JonesSales & Service Representative

DECC Company, Inc.Manufacturing(616) 245-0431www.decc.comMr. Fred MellemaPresident

Dialog Direct Business Services(313) 957-5864www.dialog-direct.com

Don Swartz Electric Inc.Electric/Electrical (616) 454-1160Mr. Jeff SwartzVice President

EnCourage Institute for Teaching and Learning Education(616) 530-2224www.encourageinstitute.com

Ms. Mary Rozendal Ph.D. Director

Faulk & Foster Real Estate Telecommunications(616) 647-3720www.faulkandfoster.com

Goei CenterBanquet/Meeting Facilities(616) 949-2421www.thegoeicenter.comMr. Bing GoeiPresident

Immaculate Flight LLCAirports(231) 670-0664www.immaculateflight.comMs. Jennifer Lesinski Controller

Koko FitClub of Grand Rapids - Cascade Fitness(616) 301-5366mi.cascade.kokofitclub.comMr. Randall WysongOwner

McCall & Company, PLCAccounting(616) 827-1000www.mccallcpas.comMr. William McCallOwner

PureSleep - CascadeFurniture(855) 251-6469www.artvan.comMr. Brian BandarraV. P. Sales & Operations of Pure Sleep

Redstone Homes Builders(616) 292-7092www.redstone-group.comMr. Gary HenschPresident

Refining Leaders, LLC Business Coach(720) 454-8110www.refiningleaders.com Mr. Paul PorrasOwner/Coach

Swoboda, Inc.Manufacturing(616) 554-6161www.swobodaus.com

Synod of the Great Lakes Organizations & Non-Profits(616) 698-7071www.greatlakesrca.orgMs. Alison DeBoerExecutive Assistant

Tanger OutletsRetail(336) 834-6827www.tangeroutlet.comMr. Quentin Pell Director of Corporate Communications

Team Restoration Inc.Remodeling(616) 863-8118www.TeamRestoration.comMr. Michael FinklerPresident

Thinkbox CreativeWebsite(616) 855-2160www.thinkboxcreative.comMr. Brian DokterPartner

Waters Building, LLCReal Estate Developers(616) 459-4161www.edmarkdevelopment.comMr. Paul Simons Building Manager

Westside Garage LLCAutomotive(616) 451-7041http://westsidegarage.net/ Mr. David ParmOwner

White Bear Coffee - PRB & Associates Beverages(616) 464-3652www.whitebearcoffee.comMs. Julie BarrettOffice Administrator


SMART BusinessMEMBER SEMINARS, EVENTS& CELEBRATIONS

SeptemberMember Ribbon Cutting Celebrations3 | Dialog Direct | 4:00pm | 2905 Lucerne Dr SE |

313.957.5864

4 | West Side Garage | 12:00 noon | 856 7th St NW | 616.581.6455

11 | Faulk & Foster Real Estate | 3:30pm | 678 Front Ave NW Suite 110 | 616.647.3720

26 | Source Technologies | 3:30pm | 2910 Lucerne Dr SE | 616.459.0652

Seminars16 & 17 | The Exceptional Leader™ – The Exceptional Leader™ - Lead the business, Lead change, Lead people! Learn how to differentiate the roles of leaders and managers, develop skills and abilities to align others, develop a leadership initiative plan for a “real world” situation, understanda process to lead change more effectively, andlearn from other leaders. Call Varnum Consulting at616.336.7070 for details.

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

October4 | Independent Bank | 4:15pm | 4200 E Beltline Ave NE |

616.363.1207

10 | Pleune Service Company | 1:00pm | 750 Himes St SE | 616.243.6374

Seminars8 & 9 | Speak Up & Be Effective™ - Advanced – Learn how to communicate with impact through oral presentation skills and body language to create focused, concise, and activating messages that influence others and project style and presence of today’s leaders. Call Varnum Consulting at

616.336.7070 for details.

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

Sales is NOT Marketing

*This information is taken from Denise Sherwood’s presentation, “Sales is Not Marketing,” at the July 2014 Business Matters Series. Visit www.grandrapids.org/business-advice to find more thought leadership like this.

Don’t confuse a marketing strategy with sales strategy, advised Denise Sherwood, partner and co-owner of Sandler Training—the two are not the same and it’s vital for your business to get it straight.

“Sales is not marketing and marketing is not sales,” Sherwood told the Chamber recently. “Nothing happens until you engage the potential client in a meaningful two-way conversation that results in a trip to the bank.”

Sherwood suggests you think of it this way:

Marketing: Everything you do to reach and persuade prospective clients. The 4 P’s of marketing are product, price, promotion and place.

Sales: Everything you do to close the sale and go to the bank. The 4 S’s of sales are staff, strategy, structure and skills.

“It’s important to align and integrate the two functions,” noted Sherwood. “Sales are the engine that drives an organization. Marketing generates interest and opportunities for sales, and sales role is to qualify or disqualify the leads quickly.”

So how do you develop effective strategies around marketing and sales?

Here are some key components of each that Sherwood recommends for consideration.

Key Elements of a MARKETING PLANPurpose: Defines the target market and client in broad terms, what the client is looking for, desires, and wants and how to get the potential client’s attention. Focuses on activities that generate awareness and can support sales efforts with market data, industry trends, and messaging.

1. Define Target Market

2. Market Analysis

3. Marketing Strategy

4. Results and Financial Analysis

5. Monitor and Measure

Key Elements of a SALES PLANPurpose: Identifies who the potential client is and includes specific prospecting strategies and tactics to implement that result in revenue generation. Defines a detailed, standardized sales process for each salesperson to follow for success, including prospecting, client add-ons/upgrades and referrals.

1. Define Ideal Client

2. New Business Acquisition

3. Retention and Expansion of Existing Clients

4. Develop a Sales Process

5. Monitor and Measure

“A sales plan needs to be short, simple, and action oriented. It is basically the strategic and tactical roadmap to acquire new business and grow existing clients to accomplish the sales goals,” Sherwood said. “The clearer and more specific the target definition the better.”


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

Priority HealthForemost Communications, LLCCompuDie, Inc.Grand Rapids Christian SchoolsHeitzman & Associates, Inc.Comfort Inn AirportD & M Metal ProductsLaser’s ResourceMercy Health Physician PartnersRapid Control Service, Inc.Jarvis Handling Equipment Co.New York Life Insurance Co.


Contractors Steel Co.PwCPine Rest Christian Mental Health ServicesQuick Printing Co., Inc.Grand Rapids Community College


Charter IndustriesCreative Financial Staffing - An Affiliate of Crowe Horwath LLPPlanned Parenthood of West & Northern MichiganPrudential FinancialWhitneyville Land CompanyFreightliner of Grand RapidsHuman Resource Associates, PCABFS Insurance Agency, Inc.Tanaz Hair Boutique, Inc. & Day SpaB & R Sales and LeasingBaker Auto Parts of Grand Rapids, Inc.Midwest Juice Inc. of MichiganBest Leasing Services LLCPaychex, Inc.University of Phoenix-West Michigan CampusMorris Builders, Inc.Northpointe BankPartners in Dental Care, PCPfeiffer InfinitiPfeiffer LincolnRapid Shred, LLCGrandville Printing CompanyImage Builders Marketing, Inc.Quality InnLegacy TrustTabernacle Community ChurchBruce Heys Builders, Inc.


Achievement Resources, LLCAldiAlles LawAmerican Express Business TravelBerghorst Food ServiceBlackford CapitalCraft-RevivalHeartside Ministry, Inc.Jandernoa Entrepreneurial Mentoring - JEMJunior League of Grand Rapids, IncMarceco Ltd.Prism Wealth Management, LLCThe Home StudioUDECON, Universal Decontamination ServicesBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real EstateCornerstone Wealth PartnersEaster Seals MichiganFlowerlandGrace Bible CollegeH&S CompaniesJade Rare CoinOptimal Solutions, Inc.Tavern On the SquareThe Derby StationYETi CGIAgropur, Inc.Boerkoel & Boerkoel LtdCatered Creations, Inc.David & Wierenga, P.C.Feeding America West Michigan Food BankKuiper Orlebeke PCLA-Z-Boy Furniture GalleriesPrestige Imports West MichiganVantaura Energy Services


Clean ResourcesDental SouthFestida Foods, LtdFritz Wahlfield Construction CompanyParagon School of Pet GroomingChase Creative UnlimitedRight at Home In Home Care & AssistanceSmith & Company, Inc.T2 Merchant Consulting LLCAward Window Cleaning Services, IncC.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.Great Lakes MotorcoachInformation Managers & AssociatesITC HoldingsMorgan & Morgan, CPAs PCPrince Conference CenterReal IT Solutions, Inc.Wedgwood Christian ServicesAttwood CorporationContinental Rail GatewayDelaware Manor/Heights (Delaware)Grand Wealth Management, LLCGrand Woods LoungeSpetha Consulting LLCWestern Districts Members Credit UnionArt Van Furniture Avantgarde de Salon & SpaAxis Branding Center, LLCCare ResourcesCARNEVALECrystal Clean Auto Detailing LLCGerald R. Ford Presidential FoundationState Farm, Danielle Rowland Agency

Date Unknown

Greenridge Realty, Inc.

One Year of Membership

Autodie LLCCable JacketzEastbrook Auto WashHidalgo & DeVries, Inc.Pure SleepSchilling Consulting Services, Inc.ServPro of Northeast Grand RapidsSouthwest AirlinesThought DesignUpland CraftWorksUS Golf Cars Inc.Valley City Electronic Recycling


S.A. Morman & Co.Metro HealthGrand Rapids Rubber Products Co.Beene Garter LLPLynch Sales Co.Woodland Mall


Work, Play, Grow: Take a Look Inside Grand Rapids

Exclusive Underwriter:

• The cost of health care• Top concerns and emerging issues• Cultivating a healthy, happy, productive workforce• Implementing the Affordable Care Act (ACA)

Date: November 14, 2014Location: Thousand Oaks, 4100 Thousand Oaks DriveTime: 7:30 – 11:30 a.m.Cost: $30 / per personRegistration: www.grandrapids.org/health-care-summit

Exclusive Presenting Sponsor:

The WorkSafe People™The WorkSafe People™

1257

7

How to Lead & Succeed When It Matters MostJake Wood, Co-Founder & CEO of Team Rubicon—the all-volunteer, all-veteran disaster response organization

Annual Meeting 2015

Tuesday, January 20, 201511:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.JW Mariott, 235 Louis St. NW

SAVE the Date!

HEALTH CARE SUMMIT2014

Grand Rapids is a place where creativity drives growth. Michigan’s second city continues to emerge as an entrepreneurial hub with no shortage of adventure, innovation, and collaboration.

Join us as we go behind the scenes with Inside Grand Rapids to explore innovations in ways of working and the economic impact of recreation and

transportation in this city where optimism meets opportunity.

Whether you are new to the city, a professional in a new role, looking to engage in the community or just a curious about the area, Inside Grand Rapids will give you insight into the city’s latest and greatest developments and put you in touch with the most dynamic leaders and individuals shaping the city’s future.

Reception | Monday, October 6, 2014: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.Tour | Tuesday, October 7, 2014: 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Location | Various locationsCost | $200/per person (non-profit), $300/per person (for-profit)Registration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/inside-grand-rapids or call

616.771.0303.

Health care keeping you up at night?

Attend the 2014 Health Care Summit and learn the latest tips and trends on:

Event Underwriter:

PERIODICAL POSTAGE

PAID GRAND RAPIDS, MI111 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Are you looking for a dedicated sounding board that gives you guidance, inspiration and feedback on the spectrum of issues you face in business? Ever wish for a confidential,

personal advisory council offering unfettered, real-world experience as a guide?

Since 1987, the CEO & Management Roundtable Program has done all of this and much more by providing a forum for confidential, non-competative peer-

to-peer conversation. Each year, over 300 business owners, CEOs, and top management participate and invest their time in monthly two-hour meetings with a group of 10-13 other decision-makers.

Fall tables will be kicking off the first week of October, so now’s the time to enroll for a roundtable!

Visit www.grandrapids.org/ceo-roundtable to learn more and

apply/renew online.

Questions? Contact Noelle Frost at [email protected] or 616.771.0344.

Your Own Personal Advisory Board Awaits!Apply for CEO & Management Roundtable Program

Deadline for placement on a Fall roundtable is Tuesday, September 12, 2014! Applications accepted online year round with placement once in Spring and once in Fall.

CEOMANAGEMENT ROUNDTABLES

+

Exclusive CEO & Management Program Underwriter:

tcn september 2014

Documents

business community

woman business owner

business matters

business relationships

business owners

greater grand rapids

productive business

support of women