Business Views 

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In this issue:

• Entrepreneurs share uplifting stories of hard work, ingenuity and determination

• From the desk of the President...

• Monthly Program Sponsor: First National Bank

• Starkey scholarship application deadline May 15

• Howell paints the town pink…Pink Party planned for celebration with a cause

• 25th anniversary weekend planned at Michigan Challenge

• 35th annual Golf Classic: more fun, more sponsors, more prizes, more value

• Meet elected officials at Business After Hours

• Maximize Your Membership workshop

• New discounts with Membership Value Program

• Looking for direction? New maps underway

• Unemployment statistics

• Members Moving Forward

• Entrepreneurs share uplifting stories of hard work, ingenuity and determination

  Think pink, think hockey and think creating solutions to problems. With hair color a shade of pink called “Cupcake,” Kim Wilson of Carriage House Designs joined Joe Miskovich of Triton Stormwater Solutions and Frank Kinney of Datapak Services Corporation in sharing their work to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams at the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce May Good Morning Livingston (GML) program. The event featured GML’s annual edition of Adventures in Entrepreneurship, and took place at Crystal Gardens – Livingston in Howell earlier this week.

   

  Wilson began her successful downtown floral design business and gift shop, Carriage House Designs, 15 years ago with a small shop on the property in Howell where she and her husband lived at the time. The business was inspired by her idea that “working for someone else just wasn’t going to work for me.”

   

  After a bit of an unfocused start on the direction the business should follow, she says she now goes with her gut and instinct in making decisions for the store. The business allows her to travel, including trips to New York City three times a year.

   

  Wilson was an early starter, noting that she created jobs for herself from the age of 12, planning fairs in her family’s backyard, selling seeds and her mother’s flowers. Self-professed as not much of a traditional student, she encouraged the audience, “Don’t give up on those students. They may go on to do great things, but just may need a different direction.”

   

  She now plans the floral arrangements for hundreds of weddings each year and has maintained a successful store. She noted that she was determined not to fail. “Go into business with your eyes wide open,” she said.

   

  Wilson also spoke about Howell’s upcoming Pink Party, which she is coordinating in support of her mother’s 21-year battle with breast cancer. The event takes place June 4 as a Susan G. Komen for the Cure fundraiser for breast cancer research. Click here to read more about the Pink Party.

   

  Frank Kinney, chief financial officer of Howell-based distribution center Datapak Services Corporation, spoke of the company’s history and growth over the years. The business was created over 20 years ago by his uncle Larry Kinney who was a programmer in the corporate world, looking for a change. Datapak now has 250 employees, call centers in both Michigan and Arizona and client list including major band names such as Warner Brothers, Conair, Cuisinart, Hamilton Beech and Bare Escentuals.

   

  Frank Kinney began working for his uncle’s business when there were just seven employees, and has served a variety of roles over the years. He offered his words of advice on the path to success, suggesting, “follow your dream in a validated method. There may be great highs and exhaustive lows, but your position lies solely on your shoulders.”

   

  Datapak offers marketing and fulfillment support services, Web design and hosting, letter shop and mailing services, retail distribution, CD and DVD duplication and more. The Kinney family also operates several other business entities including Kinney Entertainment, Radar Enterprises and Kinney Charities.

   

  Kinney Entertainment owns the International Hockey League team the Port Huron Icehawks. At the breakfast meeting, Kinney revealed that the family is considering moving the minor league professional hockey team’s operations to Livingston County. A feasibility study is in the works, with four possible locations in the county being examined for a rink. The business is also a major sponsor of the Red Wing Alumni Association.

   

  Joe Miskovich heads up the Brighton-based firm that employs a proprietary design and patent-pending construction to create a larger capacity, lighter weight, easier to install stormwater chamber. The product is significantly stronger than competitive products and is environmentally friendly, utilizing soy-based resin, rather than traditional petroleum products.

   

  Miskovich started out as an engineer at Ford Motor Company, and then moved into a project designing and developing adjustable pedals for the automotive market. But it was a flood on his lake-front property in 2004 that prompted him to go out on his own with Triton Stormwater Solutions and create a solution for the overflow of water.

   

  His company creates water harvesting systems, so water is stored underground and the land above is reclaimed for practical use. The systems use renewable resources such as soy bean oil, and the material costs are thereby controllable rather than being tied to fluctuating oil prices, as is the case with competitors’ products. The company’s products are federally certified as carbon neutral, and are eligible for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) points.

   

  For those considering embarking on their own entrepreneurial adventure, Miskovich said, “Be dedicated, maintain a level of anticipation and stay steadfast in your commitment.”

   

  For more information on this Good Morning Livingston program, click here to read the Livingston County Daily Press & Argus article on the event.

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• From the desk of the President...

  I’m still smiling.

   

  As I write this, I have just returned from the May Good Morning Livingston program, Adventures in Entrepreneurship. We do this “edition” of Good Morning Livingston every May, and I must admit it’s always been my favorite. (Don’t tell any of the other great speakers we’ve had this year…let’s keep it our little secret).

   

  Why is this one my favorite?

   

  Because each year the program features real people who took a risk, struck out on their own and started their own businesses. They tell stories of daring, hard work, creativity, stress and elation. And they stand before us as successful entrepreneurs still looking forward for the next challenge.

   

  And it all happens right here in Livingston County.

   

  This time, Kim Wilson of Carriage House Designs spoke about starting her very successful floral and gift business 15 years ago in a small space and then grew and grew to her current location in downtown Howell. Kim’s shocking pink hair alluded to a very special charitable event she’s coordinating (as if she has the time!) in downtown Howell on June 4. Check out this link to howellspinkparty.com to find out more.

   

  Frank Kinney, CFO of Datapak Services Corporation gave us a peek inside the Datapak headquarters in Howell. He told how the family business grew and prospered as his uncle Larry Kinney structured the fulfillment company upon a strong platform of technology and innovation.

   

  The Kinney family also owns the Port Huron Ice Hawks hockey team. Frank revealed the “scoop” of the morning: they are looking into the feasibility of relocating that team to a brand new facility in Livingston County.

   

  Joe Miskovich of Triton Stormwater Solutions showed video of what spurred his entrepreneurial adventures: runoff water streaming through his lakefront property. Already an innovator in the automotive industry, Joe used his know-how to invent, build and market an underground stormwater storage system that’s made of soy plastic and qualifies for green credits. And, it sure looks like he’s having fun doing it.

   

  Check out the story elsewhere in this edition of Business Views for more details on the morning. But suffice it to say:  “You shoulda been there.”

   

  The 2009-2010 Good Morning Livingston series will kick off on September 8.

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• Monthly Program Sponsor: First National Bank

  First National Bank: “Where other banks have their branches…we have our roots.” 

  As the only bank headquartered in Livingston County, First National Bank takes pride in its heritage, local decision-making and commitment to the community. When customers walk in the door of any of its branches, they can expect a friendly greeting and personalized service. With five consecutive “People’s Choice Awards” for number one bank in Livingston County, First National Bank in Howell continues to be a leader in personal and business banking services.

   

  Reinvesting in our communities

  Most of the bank’s customers live in Livingston County and like to know their deposits help the local economy. Unlike regional banks, First National reinvests deposits back into the local communities it serves in the form of business loans, mortgages and personal loans.

   

  Save time and money

  First National Bank offers a full array of personal and business accounts with perks like free Internet banking and free online bill pay available on most accounts. In addition to these services, First National maintains a local wealth management department and new treasury management products.

   

  Wealth management

  With access to some of the top money managers and research in the world, First National can design a personal investment management plan that suits every stage of life. From personal retirement planning strategies to investment policies for municipalities and non-profit organizations, First National Wealth Management goes the extra mile by putting financial education first.

   

  Treasury management

  First National Bank helps business customers streamline their banking by providing a full range of tools to save time and money. From Sweep Accounts and Positive Pay to Merchant Card Services, Remote Capture and ACH (automated clearinghouse) capabilities, the bank offers customers the financial agility to take on larger competitors in a tough economy.

   

  Supporting Livingston County 

  Over the last several years, First National Bank has contributed close to $1,000,000 to local organizations and causes which include the Livingston County United Way, Livingston County Family YMCA, LACASA and the Livingston Arts Council/The Opera House. In the past three years the bank has awarded nearly $55,000 in scholarships to local graduating high school students.

   

  “First National remains committed to the local non-profit organizations, and so do our employees. Over the past two years, our staff has generously donated over 8,800 hours of their personal time supporting local events and charitable groups,” stated Ron Long, president and chief executive officer.

   

  Proud of its historic past and innovative future, First National Bank invites chamber members, area residents and local professionals to bank with a community leader where local decisions and a commitment to the people and communities of Livingston County matter the most.

   

   

  First National Bank is the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce monthly program sponsor for May.

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• Starkey scholarship application deadline May 15

  Nominate a working student for the Margaret Starkey Scholarship

  Businesses are invited to nominate employees who are also attending college or technical school for the 2009 Margaret Starkey Scholarship. This program is designed to assist “non-traditional” students seeking to advance their skills and standard of living though advanced education or training.

   

  The scholarship is awarded by the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation and is named to honor Margaret Starkey, who worked for the chamber for 31 years. The foundation will award a total of up to $15,000 in scholarships to worthy students who are nominated by their employers.

   

  The scholarship has traditionally been awarded to employees who possess an extraordinary work ethic, echoing that of Margaret Starkey’s. These hard-working and dedicated individuals go above and beyond expectations on the job while making sacrifices to improve themselves through education and training. Many winners have overcome obstacles in life.

   

  Some of the criteria used to evaluate candidates will include self-motivation, creativity, customer service, leadership and self-confidence. Nominees must have been employed with the nominating company since at least September 2008.

   

  The deadline for returning applications to the chamber foundation is May 15. Winners will be announced June 15 and honored at the September Good Morning Livingston.

   

  Applications for the 2009 Margaret Starkey Scholarship are available online at howell.org for any area business wishing to nominate an outstanding employee.

   

  For more information about the Margaret Starkey Scholarship or the chamber foundation, call Convery at the chamber at 517.546.3920.

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• Howell paints the town pink…Pink Party planned for celebration with a cause

  A town-wide “Pink Party” to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure is coming to Howell. The event takes place throughout downtown Howell on June 4 from 6 -10 p.m.

   

  Spearheaded by Kim Wilson, owner of Carriage House Designs in Howell, the Pink Party is a fundraiser for breast cancer research and also an opportunity to create a sense of community by promoting a vital cause. The event is the first time a town-wide fundraiser of this magnitude has been organized in Howell.

   

  More than 70 businesses and community groups in Howell and the surrounding area are participating in the event with in-store discounts, food and wine tastings, art exhibits, mini spa and body treatments, quick yoga, silent auction and quilt exhibit. Luminaries will be placed throughout downtown to honor cancer survivors.

   

  Tickets are $25 and are required to participate. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Tickets can be purchased in Howell at Aria Booksellers, Carriage House Designs, Lady Rebecca’s, Eclectic Twyst, Howell Western Wear, Down Home Interiors, Pur-Se’, Le Boutique, Howell’s MainStreet Winery, and Town Shop Salon; or in Brighton at Brighton Tux Shop, the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce and Cooper & Binkley Jewelers.

   

  For more information and a list of event activities, visit the website at howellspinkparty.com.

   

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• 25th anniversary weekend planned at Michigan Challenge

  One may not remember where he or she was in 1985, the inaugural year of balloonfest, but the Michigan Challenge Committee wants all to remember where they were in the summer of 2009.

   

  The celebration is June 26-28 at the Howell High School complex, 1200 W. Grand River, and in downtown Howell as 50 beautiful balloons decorate the sky during the event that has attracted more than 120,000 guests annually.

   

  “We have some exciting new additions for the 25th anniversary, and I believe we are in for the best Michigan Challenge yet,” said Chairman Trevor Brooks, The UPS Store. “There is a history of excellence that we strive to uphold, and I know the committee is especially proud to be part of this significant year.”

   

  The celebration starts on Friday night with an early evening balloon launch followed by the MediLodge Fireworks.

   

  “MediLodge of Howell prides itself on being part of our local community," said Brandon Snider, MediLodge marketing director. "We are pleased to sponsor the first fireworks show at balloonfest."

   

  Other new attractions include America’s Best Frisbee Dogs, sponsored by Meijer; and the chance to “twist and shout” with The BackBeats, a Beatles tribute band on Saturday night. Entertainment is sponsored by Krug Ford, Wal-Mart Supercenter, Atlas Home Improvement and American Laser Centers.

   

  In addition, each balloon is sponsored by a business looking to benefit from the unique marketing opportunities that the Michigan Challenge provides.

   

  "It is a privilege to be part of a community project that literally reaches heights across Livingston County representing the collective participation of businesses, individuals and spectators who all have one primary purpose this particular weekend; to enjoy the tranquility and splash of color that floats through the skies of our county," said balloon sponsor Glynis McBain, president, Your Peace of Mind.

   

  National City is the major sponsor of balloonfest and has been for the past 19 years. Supporting sponsors are Citizens Insurance, Tanger Outlet Center and Waste Management. Pepsi is beverage sponsor, and site host is Howell Public Schools.  

   

  In downtown Howell, Saturday is Saint Joseph Mercy Hospital Kid’s Day and Sunday is Music Day.

   

  Downtown guests will also enjoy live entertainment, shopping, restaurants, kid’s crafts and family activities, art, music and more. Most activities take place on the courthouse lawn.

   

  State Street in Howell gets fit on Saturday with 25 ways to get your family active from the Livingston County Family YMCA. Sunday on State Street features home-grown produce at the Farmers’ Market.

   

  For the complete schedule of events, visit the Michigan Challenge Web site at michiganchallenge.com.

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• 35th annual Golf Classic: more fun, more sponsors, more prizes, more value

  With a beautiful summer on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking about dusting off those clubs in preparation for the 35^th annual Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic.

   

  This year’s event will be held on Wednesday, July 22 at Timber Trace Golf Club in Pinckney.

   

  “Our committee is working hard to plan an outstanding event and a great day on the greens,” said Becky Gari, of R. Gari Sign & Display and head of the Golf Classic committee. “We know chamber members and their guests have many outings like this to choose from, so we’re putting the focus on making the Howell chamber outing the best one yet. Our motto is, if you can only make it to one golf outing this year, this is the one to attend.”

   

  Participants will enjoy an array of contests, raffles, prizes and awards along with 18 holes of golf in a scramble format. Also included will be a continental breakfast, lunch and refreshments on the course. Complimentary water, soft drinks and beer will be available at the beverage stations on the course. New this year are specialty sponsors providing a complimentary array of products and services to enhance the golfers’ outing experience. The event will end with a full-course dinner and awards program.

   

  Several contests will also be a featured part of this year’s outing, with a new Skins Contest to debut as well as two returning favorites from previous years. Back again this year are both the popular $Buck$ Putt contest and the Motown Club Cover Contest, with premium tickets to professional sporting events as prizes. A Skins Contest is new for this year’s outing

   

  “The Golf Classic is a great opportunity to enjoy outstanding golf,” said Pat Convery, chamber president. “And it’s also a wonderful time to do some business networking and entertain clients. We’re ready to customize sponsorship opportunities as well – just give us a call.”

   

  Invitations will be mailed to chamber members by the end of May. A program complete with details regarding the event schedule and a variety of sponsorship opportunities, featuring some sponsorships new for this year, will be included.

   

  The chamber is also seeking items for the golfers’ goodie bags such as apparel, golf accessories or packaged goods and sundries, and door prize donations. Items may be dropped off at the chamber building or can be arranged for pick up. Members interested in sponsorship or goodie bag and door prize donation opportunities may contact the chamber for additional details.

   

  The cost to participate in this year’s outing is an outstanding value at $125, which includes $5 in mulligans, $5 in 50-50 tickets, refreshments, lunch and more.

   

  For more information about the golf outing, contact Kim Esper, coordinator of the golf outing at the chamber, at 517.546.3920 or kesper@howell.org.

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• Meet elected officials at Business After Hours

  Business After Hours Honoring Elected Officials

  Business After Hours Honoring Elected Officials is a special annual event to honor area elected and appointed officials. Members of the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce, other county chambers and the Economic Development Council of Livingston County, and elected officials from throughout Livingston County are invited to attend the event Thursday, May 28 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Waldenwoods Banquet & Conference Center, 2975 Old US 23 in Hartland.

   

  There is no cost to attend.

   

  This evening is a great opportunity to recognize local elected and appointed officials for the many hours put into serving Livingston County and its communities. Guests can meet and exchange ideas with these representatives in a relaxed atmosphere while enjoying complimentary refreshments and live music. Elected officials at the local, county and state levels are invited.

   

  Sponsors of this year’s program are AT&T, Cleary University, DTE Energy, First National Bank and Waldenwoods Banquet & Conference Center. Supporting sponsor is Waste Management.

   

  “We encourage chamber members to join us for this chance to thank those who do so much for our community,” said Pat Convery, president of the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce. “If you haven’t had a chance to meet your elected representatives, this is the night to do so.”

   

  Business After Hours for elected officials is a joint program of the Howell, Brighton and Hartland chambers of commerce and the Economic Development Council of Livingston County.

   

  For more information or to R.S.V.P., contact the Howell chamber at 517.546.3920 or chamber@howell.org.

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• Maximize Your Membership workshop

  Maximize your Membership workshop on June 10

  Want to get the highest possible R.O.I. from your chamber membership? These days, every dollar needs to stretch as far as possible and the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce wants to help make that happen with your investment in membership. Learn how to "Maximize your Membership" at this workshop designed to assist all chamber members with getting the biggest bang for your buck.

   

  The event takes place Wednesday, June 10 at 8:30 a.m. at the chamber, 123 E. Washington St. in Howell. There is no cost to attend and light refreshments will be served.

   

  The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce is the community's leading advocate and champion for business. Its primary objective is to create a climate of growth and success in our community. At the program, learn more about how your business can benefit from this commitment.

   

  ·        Learn more about chamber benefits and valuable programs.

  ·        Networking ranks high on importance for why members join the chamber – learn how to make new contacts and get the most out of your networking opportunities.

  ·        Hear more about how the chamber is currently advocating for your business.

  ·        Help us help you – the chamber wants to know what issues are critical to the success of your business and how we can provide the tools you need to get there.

   

  Register on-line at howell.org or contact the chamber at 517.546.3920 by Monday, April 27.

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• New discounts with Membership Value Program

  

  New discounts with Membership Value Program

  Promote and grow your business by offering discounts to thousands of keytag holders by participating in the chamber’s free Membership Value Program. The program offers discounts on everything from lunch to auto repair at nearly 100 companies throughout the area. Just show your keytag and claim your discounts.

   

  The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce encourages members to help support each other by using fellow chamber members when purchasing goods or services. The Membership Value Program is a benefit available to all Howell chamber member employees at no cost to participants or shoppers.

   

  A complete listing of participating businesses is accessible by visiting the Member-to-Member Discounts page at howell.org. To enroll in the program or obtain keytags for chamber member employees, contact Kim Esper at 517.546.3920 or kesper@howell.org.

   

   

  New participating chamber member:

   

  OakHaven Manor

  Stacey Haverstick

  517.548.9870

  Complimentary meeting room usage for chamber member meetings; call for details

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• Looking for direction? New maps underway

  Plans are currently underway to produce a new Howell area road map including Howell and Fowlerville, as well as a map of Livingston County. The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce has contracted with NovoPrint USA, a firm with a national reputation for producing accurate, professional maps.

   

  The new map will feature all public and private streets in the City of Howell, the Village of Fowlerville and the areas around both communities. Points of interest such as schools, industrial parks, county offices, golf courses and parks will be highlighted as well. A map of Livingston County is included on the reverse side.

   

  Advertising opportunities to be featured on the map are now available to chamber members. Benefits of advertising include:

   

  ·        Over 10,000 full-color maps will be printed and distributed through the Chamber. Additionally, they will be used in the recruitment of new business, relocation programs and marketing by local businesses.

  ·        As an advertiser, the ad design will be done at no charge.

  ·        This map is a direct means to advertise and promote chamber member businesses, products and services to fellow chamber members as well as to others in the Howell area and beyond.

  ·        Advertisers’ business locations are displayed on an interactive version of the map available for public use and viewing online.

   

  Advertising space is limited and will be sold on a first come, first served basis. For details, contact Janie Willsmore at jwillsmore@howell.org or 517.546.3920.

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• Unemployment statistics

  Unemployment Statistics

  (not seasonally adjusted)

  Local and statewide

   

    

                                     Feb. 09      Jan. 09       Feb. 08

  Livingston County       10.8%       10.1%         6.1%

  State of Michigan        12.8%       12.5%         7.6%

   

   

                                   March 09     Feb. 09      March 08

  Livingston County       11.4%       10.8%         6.5%

  State of Michigan        13.4%       12.7%         7.9%

   

   

  Source: Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Growth

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• Members Moving Forward

  ACD.net

  ACD.net, located at 1800 North Grand River Avenue in Lansing, has introduced a new wireless Internet network for the city of Springfield, Michigan. ACD.net currently offers a similar network in downtown Lansing and plans to expand the system to other cities throughout the state. ACD.net is a telecommunications and broadband provider with a network covering lower Michigan. For more information call 517.999.3252 or visit acd.net.

   

  Castaway Café

  Castaway Café, located at 3749 Mason Road in Howell, offers free family photos the second Wednesday of every month beginning in May, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more information call 517.545.7386 or visit castawayplay.com.

   

  Cleary University

  Tom Sullivan, president of Cleary University, has been re-elected to serve on the board of directors for the American Association of Presidents of Independent Colleges & Universities. Cleary University specializes in business degree programs and has campus locations in Howell, Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Flint and Livonia. For more information call 517.548.3670 or visit cleary.edu.

   

  Costco Wholesale #786

  Costco Wholesale #786, located at 6700 Whitmore Lake Road in Brighton, is hosting a chamber business focus event Wednesday, June 3 from noon – 7 p.m. All attendees will be able to shop in the warehouse and have the opportunity to sign-up for Costco membership with incentives, giveaways and coupons. For more information contact Dave Wallen, or Jenny Beson at 810.220.8950.

   

  Datapak Services Corporation

  Datapak Services Corporation, located at 1000 Austin Court in Howell, recently signed a multi-year agreement with Warner Brothers Home Entertainment Group. The company will provide banking, customer service and fulfillment services for WBshop.com. Datapak Services Corporation is a leading marketing and fulfillment solutions company, offering technology-driven services. For more information call 517.552.1400 or visit datapakservices.com.

   

  DTE Energy

  Detroit Edison, a subsidiary of DTE Energy, is co-sponsoring an upcoming Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) regional manufacturing outreach workshop. The workshop is designed to help companies learn how to supply products and services to the nuclear industry. The all-day workshop takes place at the MGM Grand in downtown Detroit on Thursday, June 4. The workshop begins with a general session from 8 a.m. to noon with Michigan speaker of the house Andy Dillon, focused breakout sessions from 3 to 6 p.m. and a procurement expo from 4:30 to 6 p.m. For more information contact John Austerberry at 313.235.8859 or Lorie Kessler at 313.235.8807.

   

  Envoy Mortgage Corporation

  Premier Mortgage Corporation, located at 218 East Grand River Avenue in Brighton, has changed its name to Envoy Mortgage Corporation. Phone and fax remain the same at 810.220.0300 and 810.220.0700, respectively.

   

  Five Sparrows, LLC

  Leanne Kodsmann and Patricia Totzke have joined the staff at Five Sparrows, LLC. Kodsmann is a recent MSU graduate and has several years of online marketing experience, specializing in social networking and search engine optimization. Totzke is an award-winning art director and graphic designer. Five Sparrows, LLC, located at 3889 Hartland Hills in Hartland, is a Web site and marketing services firm specializing in online marketing services for small businesses and non-profit organizations. For more information call 810.923.1874 or visit fivesparrows.com.

   

  Heavenly Acres Pet Cemetery & Happy Stay Boarding Kennel

  Heavenly Acres Pet Cemetery & Happy Stay Boarding Kennel, located at 4369 S. Old US 23 in Brighton, has changed its phone and fax numbers to 810.229.2838 and 810.229.6832 respectively.

   

  Irish Construction Company

  Tom Anderson has received his Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Anderson joins Rich Darr as the second of the company’s LEED Accredited Professionals.

  Irish Construction Company received the Construction Association of Michigan’s (CAM) Honorable Mention in the Green Project of the Year competition. The Howell-based company was recognized for its work on A3C’s Green Renovation and Rooftop Retreat which involved an extensive retro-fit integration of a wide variety of green building systems. For more information call 517.548.3440 or visit irishconstructionco.com.

   

  LACASA

  LACASA, located at 2895 West Grand River Avenue in Howell, will host its annual garden tour Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and 12. Volunteers are needed. For more information contact Candy Jones-Guerin at 517.548.1350.

   

  Livingston County Daily Press & Argus

  The Livingston County Daily Press & Argus received nine awards for outstanding news writing and photography by the Michigan Associated Press Editorial Association 2008 contest. For the fifth year running, the local newspaper has received the most awards in its class.

   

  Motor City Health & Fitness

  Motor City Health & Fitness, located at 405 Lakeshore Pointe Drive in Howell, has a new phone number 517.672.6724. Web site remains the same at motorcityhealthandfitness.com

   

  Dr. Wayne Nelson, DDS, PC

  Grand River Dental Care, located at 2700 West Grand River Avenue in Howell, has changed its name to Dr. Wayne Nelson, DDS, PC. Phone and fax remain the same at 517.546.7211 and 517.546.7848, respectively.

   

  Ross Innovative Employment Solutions (Ross IES)

  Ross Innovative Employment Solutions (Ross IES), located at 1240 Packard Drive in Howell, is hosting a summer youth program for Livingston County. The program provides work experience for individuals ages 19-24 looking for summer employment. Michigan Works! provides 100 percent of the wages and the host worksite provides training and supervision. For more information on becoming a worksite contact Lindsy Buck at 517.552.2154 or lbuck@rossprov.com.

   

  Saint Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital

  Kathleen Rhine has been appointed vice president and chief operating officer (COO) of Saint Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital. Rhine has been with the health system for 10 years and has experience across the health system.

  Dr. Doug Edema has taken the position of vice president, physician and ambulatory (outpatient) network for the Saint Joseph Mercy Health System. Edema has been with the hospital for over 5 years and has experience with renovation projects, acquisition of medical equipment and implementation of new technologies, and remains active in the community through his oversight of the Woodland facility.

   

  Schild's Jack of All Trades

  Schild's Jack of All Trades now offers cleaning services in addition to the company’s home repair and construction services. “Clean and Green” services include the use of environmentally-friendly cleaning products. For more information call 517.548.6799.

   

  WHMI, 93.5 FM

  WHMI, 93.5 FM recently received the 2008 general excellence award for news coverage by the Michigan Associated Press. In addition, whmi.com won best Web site for news and information.

  John Conlin has joined the WHMI news team and brings with him 20 years experience in radio news. For more information call 517.546.0860 or visit whmi.com.

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