July 2009

About Us > News

July 2009

The Whole Brain Group Sales Rise with AccreditStation® Contracts and Grows National Client Roster
Thursday, July 30

The Whole Brain Group, LLC announces an increase in the sales of its AccreditStation® product during the first half of 2009. Yale University joined its growing list of clients, including the following research institutions that recently renewed their AccreditStation® contracts: The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, University of Colorado Denver, Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids, Louisiana State University in Shreveport, Lifespan in Rhode Island, and the Cleveland Veterans Administration Hospital.

Institutions use AccreditStation to eliminate hundreds of hours of manual labor that is spent assembling documents for their AAHRPP® accreditation application for human research protection programs. The 126 pounds of paper annually wasted per staff person is also greatly reduced. "Human research protection programs are experiencing increased demands on their already overtaxed staff," states Marisa Smith, President of The Whole Brain Group. "Our web-based application helps them use their resources more efficiently, so they can concentrate on research quality and safety. "The company's other AccreditStation clients include Columbia University, Miami Children's Hospital, and The National Institutes of Health. More information about the product can be found at http://www.accreditstation.com.

The Whole Brain Group is a web application development company dedicated to helping its clients work smarter and greener. Located in downtown Ann Arbor, the company applies its philosophy of Integrated Thinking to the development of balanced and sustainable software systems, growing and adapting these systems along with a client's evolving needs. The company specializes in electronic solutions to paper problems in the areas of research compliance, media relations, legal services, and accreditation.

The Whole Brain Group is 100% woman-owned.

Eliason Joins Yeo & Yeo
Thursday, July 30

Yeo & Yeo, P.C., CPAs is pleased to announce that Christopher Eliason has joined the firm as a staff accountant. He will serve in the audit department in the Ann Arbor office.

Mr. Eliason holds a bachelor of business administration majoring in accounting from Hillsdale College. He is a member of the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants. He volunteers at Holy Family Church in Novi and for the Hillsdale College children’s golf program. He resides in Novi.

Yeo & Yeo, P.C. is a certified public accounting and consulting firm that serves individuals, businesses, not-for-profit, education and government entities. Over 200 employees in nine offices throughout Michigan provide professional accounting business solutions. Other Yeo & Yeo affiliates include Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting, LLC and Affiliated Medical Billing. Offices are located in Saginaw (headquarters), Alma, Ann Arbor, Bay City, Flint, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Marlette and Midland.

Miller Canfield Lawyer Elected Vice President of Board of Directors, Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor
Thursday, July 30

The law firm of Miller Canfield announces that Rachel Nosowsky, senior counsel in the firm’s Ann Arbor, Michigan office, has been elected vice president of the board of directors of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor.

At Miller Canfield, Nosowsky practices in the areas of health care and life sciences. During her career she has represented academic medical centers and other health care providers and payers in a broad range of health law and regulatory compliance matters, in particular in the areas of corporate governance, ethics and compliance; medical staff bylaws, credentialing and peer review; physician-hospital relations; health privacy; and human research protection, biospecimen banking, and clinical trials and FDA regulation. She also has written and spoken extensively on health privacy and human research issues.

Nosowsky joined Miller Canfield in 2008 from the University of Michigan’s legal staff in Ann Arbor. She served as assistant general counsel and worked primarily with the University’s health system.

She received her J.D. from the University of California at Berkeley Law School and her B.A. from Carleton College. She resides in Ann Arbor.

The law firm of Miller Canfield offers businesses, governments, nonprofits, individuals and families a broad array of integrated legal and business services in over 55 areas. With Michigan roots for 157 years and a global reach for two decades, the firm has more than 370 lawyers throughout offices in Michigan, Illinois, Florida, New York, Canada, Mexico, Poland and China. For more information, visit millercanfield.com.

Cornillie accepts Amtrak post; Benham to continue WALLY effort
Thursday, July 30

The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) has announced that Thomas Cornillie, who has served as the AATA staff person responsible for development of north-south commuter rail service between Howell and Ann Arbor, has accepted a post with Amtrak.

Cornillie will be based in California as principal officer for infrastructure planning for Amtrak, after employment with AATA for 14 months. He was first hired by AATA to coordinate the implementation of the A2 Chelsea Express bus service between Chelsea and Ann Arbor before being tapped to work on the Washtenaw and Livingston Line (WALLY) commuter rail project.

Cornillie will continue as a member of the Commuter Rail Committee of the Transportation Research Board.

AATA Deputy CEO Dawn Gabay praised Cornillie’s accomplishments at AATA, saying, “We wish Tom well in his new endeavor. He has been instrumental in defining the requirements needed for the WALLY project and developing plans to move the project forward.”

Succeeding Cornillie in the WALLY post is Michael Benham of Ann Arbor.

Benham has more than 25 years of experience in planning and project management in the transportation industry and other public and private organizations.

He began his career in Chicago as a city planner and moved on to serve as an environmental specialist with that city’s Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and later as assistant director of planning for METRA, which operates commuter rail service in the Chicago area.

For the past 10 years, he has worked with a consulting and strategic planning firm in Southfield that specializes in real estate and property management.

“Michael comes to AATA with a great deal of experience in commuter rail and is a welcome addition to our team,” Gabay said.

Benham will be responsible for coordination and management of the WALLY project and will represent AATA in all WALLY matters and also in developing AATA service connecting with proposed east-west rail service.

There are three WALLY tasks currently under way, including a grant application through the TIGER program of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which is administered by the US Department of Transportation. AATA has agreed to compile the application, work on the project schedule with the Michigan Department of Transportation and work toward completion of the necessary environmental approvals.

AATA is also working to complete an application for categorical exclusion following completion of an archaeological survey of the proposed Hamburg station site. The exclusion would remove the necessity for further review and would remove a barrier to the use of federal funds.

A memorandum of understanding to delineate the responsibilities of AATA, MDOT and other parties developing WALLY is another near-term task.

Along with the project development component are plans to educate and further engage community members and stakeholders in the WALLY project. AATA is working with a consulting firm to develop a WALLY public education plan and materials.

The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority was chartered in 1969 by the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as a special-purpose unit of government. AATA is supported through local, state and federal funds, and fare box revenues. AATA operates 27 public transit routes, paratransit services and carpool-vanpool matching and other transportation services to facilitate mobility throughout the urbanized areas of Washtenaw County.

AATA is also coordinating the development of the proposed Washtenaw and Livingston Line (WALLY) commuter rail service in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Transportation and the WALLY Coalition, a group of community leaders and advocates dedicated to the success of the project. The WALLY commuter rail service is expected to operate between the cities of Howell and Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Fitness Franchise Making Great Strides Under New Ownership
Tuesday, July 28

Entrepreneur, Michael J. Concannon, has added a personal training franchise to his umbrella of companies. Concannon, president of The Concannon Company, operates a suite of real estate based businesses including investing, consulting, retail, remodeling, development, property management, brokerage and building.

“Purchasing the Fitness Together franchise appealed to me because the health and wellness industry is the fastest growing segment of the retail business sector,” said Concannon. Concannon is an avid sports enthusiast and his weekly schedule includes visits to the dojo (he is a third degree black belt), cycling and weight training in the studio he now owns. He lives by these words, “If you don’t take theshot, you can’t make the basket!”

The franchise also boasts a new manager, MJ LaDuke. LaDuke brings over 15 years experience in the health and beauty industry in operations, management, and marketing. “I’ve used personal trainers for over ten years and I stand firm behind the Fitness Together methodology. Trainers push you to the next level and have your best interest at heart; the trainers at Fitness Together West are dedicated to the goals of their clients!” comments LaDuke. LaDuke plans on making a strong impression on the local businesses through special events, e-marketing, and free demos in and outside of the studio.

With three seasoned trainers and more in the pipeline, the franchise is ready to get the residents of Ann Arbor in shape! A personal training package at Fitness Together West includes an in-depth body fat and nutrition assessment with measurements and photographs, as well as a wellness profile. The goal at Fitness Together West is to train in private so the client looks great in public.

Fitness Together West is located at 1785 West Stadium Blvd., in the Dakota Building with hours of operation Monday – Friday, 6:30 am – 9:00 pm, and Saturday by appointment.

Humane Society of Huron Valley Sees Increase in Number of Puppy Parvo Cases
Tuesday, July 28

In the last week and half the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) has seen seven confirmed cases of Parvovirus incoming puppies. These puppies were both strays and owned pets.

“This is a bit scary. It is definitely out of the ordinary, we might see seven cases over several months”, says Tanya Hilgendorf, Executive Director.

Parvovirus is a very serious and highly contagious disease that is often deadly for puppies because of their weaker immune system. Parvo initially attacks the digestive system causing diarrhea, fever, vomiting, loss of appetite and lethargy. These symptoms can escalate to dehydration, shock and sudden death. Parvovirus is not transferable to humans.

Parvovirus is extremely virulent and can live in the environment for months. Adult dogs are less vulnerable to illness because they are more likely to be vaccinated and have stronger immune systems.

“This is an important reminder to owners to ensure that your puppy follows a vaccination protocol as set out by your veterinarian. Even puppies that have been initially immunized are vulnerable because antibodies passed from a mother can interfere with the vaccination. It is generally recommended that puppies get vaccinated every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old, and then annually after that,” says Dr. Meredith Mallory, HSHV Shelter Veterinarian.

The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving all of Washtenaw County and beyond, and relies solely on donations from businesses and individuals to support our community programs. The mission of HSHV is to promote responsible and compassionate care of all animals in our community. For more information, call (734) 662-5585 or visit www.hshv.org.

The Third Annual Great Lakes Independence Ride An Inclusive Cycling Adventure
Tuesday, July 28

The Annual Great Lakes Independence Ride (IRide), in its third year as the only fully-inclusive multi-day cycling event in Michigan, will be holding a Kick-Off Celebration at the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living. IRide is unique in that people with and without disabilities ride together on a completely accessible bike trek, with rest stops and hotels that are all accessible to everyone. Riders of all ages and abilities (including those with significant visual or motor/sensory disabilities) are encouraged to join in both the Kick-Off Celebration on July 30th, and IRide itself, which runs from August 6th through August 9th.

Hosted by the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living (a non-profit organization dedicated to the success of children, youth and adults with disabilities at home, at school, at work and in the community), the ride will benefit all Disability Network / Michigan Centers for Independent Living by raising funds and awareness for our mission and community needs.

The IRide Kick-Off Celebration on July 30th will feature public officials (including Senator Liz Brater; Representatives Pam Byrnes, Kathy Angerer, Alma Smith, and Rebekah Warren; and Washtenaw County Commissioner Barbara Bergman) in support of equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities. The ride itself begins in Holland on August 6th, continuing through Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Jackson. It ends with the final mile celebration, “Destination Independence,” on August 9th, where riders will be greeted and cheered on as they complete their journey. Both events will be taking place at the AACIL office, located at 3941 Research Park Drive in Ann Arbor.

This is a family-friendly event, and all are encouraged to come out to both the Kick-Off and “Destination Independence” in support of the riders and disability rights. For more information about the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living or the Independence Ride event, visit http://www.IndependenceRide.org, or contact Mary Stack at mstack@aacil.org (or by phone at 734-971-0277 Ext. 22.)

Even When a Spouse Dies, Debt Lives On
Tuesday, July 28

The death of a loved one is a paralyzing event. Many survivors find it difficult, if not impossible to start dealing with the financial afterlife of a spouse even if they’ve planned extraordinarily well.

Consider then, the one single element that can turn this difficult process into a lengthy nightmare and potential financial disaster for a surviving spouse – the deceased’s outstanding debt.

Married couples -- particularly those who hold credit cards jointly and keep month-to-month balances on them – really need to pay attention. And we’re not simply talking about elderly spouses. A spouse can die at any time.

The earlier a married couple focuses on the joint issues of credit management and estate planning, the better. And a financial advisor can tie the necessary elements of estate, retirement and debt planning together because they absolutely need to be.

While the following information can be a guide for individuals who have lost a spouse, it’s a much better guide for couples in good health who want to alleviate major financial problems for their survivors later on.

Just remember: The worst time to deal with joint or separate credit issues is after the funeral. Some key points to consider:

Joint credit in moderation…or not at all: If spouses have separate credit, then their rating won’t be affected by the spouse’s bad credit behavior (late payments, charge-offs, bankruptcies, etc.). Joint credit leaves the surviving spouse with a total obligation for any debt remaining on a car loan, credit card, mortgage or any other kind of debt.

Watch those “additional card” offers: Again, it might seem like a great idea for both spouses to carry credit cards on the same account, but in death, outstanding balances are often treated the same way as joint account is. It’s not unusual for an issuer to come after the holder of the additional card for that outstanding debt.

They will find you: You’ve never met Big Brother until you’ve tussled with today’s toughened-up lenders. Particularly as problem credit has grown to epidemic proportions, credit card companies in particular have gotten a lot better about determining whether customers have died so they can make a claim against the deceased’s assets. Most states have specific laws that put a timetable on a lender’s ability to make claims against an estate, and executors may have certain responsibilities under those laws to inform those creditors. A planner or estate attorney can help you go over those requirements in your home state as you’re addressing your estate, retirement and debt issues.

Keep in mind that keeping separate credit won’t protect the estate’s assets: Granted, a deceased partner’s bad credit may not affect your ratings on your separate accounts, but creditors will go after the assets of your shared estate to settle up. So what’s the message here? Keep debt under control at all times.

If the worst happens, what’s the process? It’s important to contact all lenders swiftly to let them know your spouse has died for several reasons. First, identity thieves are getting more sophisticated about checking death notices and tracing that information to their credit accounts. Dealing with a deceased spouse’s debt is one problem. Dealing with an identity theft calamity based on your spouse’s accounts is even worse. Also, if you do have joint accounts, ask the issuer if it will issue the card in your name only, and keep in mind that you will still need to maintain payments on those balances to preserve your credit rating as a single person. Lastly, lenders tend to look askance at customers who fail to make disclosure of a spouse’s death. So matter how tough things are, you need to make these calls.

What about the last joint accounts? For joint accounts, removing the deceased’s name from the account should have no impact on the survivor’s credit score, but the survivor should think twice before he or she closes the account, because it cuts back the amount of credit available to the survivor.

Just get rid of the debt: Debt-free is the best way to go through any crisis. Couples should strive to be debt-free not only for the good times, but for the awful ones as well.

This article is provided by Yeo & Yeo, P.C., CPAs and Business Consultants. For more information, contact Alan V. Lapczynski, CPA at Yeo & Yeo’s Ann Arbor office, (734) 769-1331. Yeo & Yeo is a local member in good standing with the Financial Planning Association, producers of the article.

Dealing With Companywide Pay and Benefits Cuts
Tuesday, July 28

Even as the economy shows a few glimmers of improvement, most economists expect some continuation of job, pay and benefits cuts to continue throughout the year. What can you do about these moves, even if they’re still in the rumor stage?

Hold a family meeting: Talking about money issues is a delicate balancing act between teamwork and fear, but there are already plenty of TV commercials showing Dad or Mom losing their jobs and kids rising to the occasion. As awful as economic circumstances have gotten, there’s a spirit of teamwork in the air, and families should harness it. Sit down, discuss what’s going on, and solicit suggestions equally on the best ways to conserve excess and luxury spending, save more money on essential spending and find an appropriate treat for everyone when trouble lifts. And if your kids are working age, let them get a job to help with their expenses as long as it doesn’t affect their schoolwork.

Get some advice: Don’t wait until a crisis descends to get some useful strategic advice. A financial planning professional will be able to help you with spending issues, but they will also be able to help you shore up your retirement investments if your company decides to alter its traditional pension plan or cut or eliminate matching contributions to your 401(k).

Create a budget and stick to it: Whether you build one in a family meeting or in front of a computer screen by yourself, it’s time to budget. Analyze every cent of spending, build a budget of mainly essentials and a few scheduled treats and swear to live by it to the letter until your employer restores pay and benefits or you find a new job. And when happy times come back, do one more thing – see if you can still stick to that budget so you can accumulate an emergency fund and additional savings. You’ll be in a much better position when the next downturn occurs.

Boost cash flow through simple withholding changes: Talk to your tax professional about whether it makes sense to boost your withholding allowances to make up for that percentage of lost pay. If you find you’re claiming too many allowances, you can send in an additional tax payment later.

Renegotiate what you’re paying for insurance. If you have an emergency fund, raise your deductibles on home and auto insurance so you can save on premiums. If your car is old, consider dropping that collision coverage and make sure you have your policies consolidated with one carrier because that can save you money. One more thing to consider – do you absolutely need that extra car? Selling it and car pooling or shifting to public transportation can save you thousands a year.

Start haggling over bills and fees: Sick of that cable bill? Either cancel it or tell your provider you’re going with a competing satellite or phone-based TV network and see if you can get a lower rate. Start pre-shopping all purchases online, and if you buy online, use discount codes to save money on your purchase and on shipping. Start asking about pricing on elective medical procedures among a range of doctors. Wherever you buy a product or service, make it a policy to see if there is a cheaper way to do the transaction. The worst thing the merchant, company or professional can say is “no,” and you can choose whether to stick with them or go elsewhere.

Refinance your mortgage: While rates are low, lock in a rate cut of a percentage point or more and lop at least $200 or more off your monthly payment. You might gain some tax advantages from that move as well as cover a good portion of your pay cut. And if you find your company will be cutting its match to your 401(k) plan, that might not be a bad place for the surplus funds to go either.

Downsize your home: If you can sell your current residence, this might be a good time to downsize into a smaller home that gives you more equity and a lower mortgage payment.

Start buying used. Can you really tell whether someone wore that blouse that originally cost $300 that you picked up for $15? Are used DVDs that much harder to watch than new? Start getting familiar with Internet auction sites, local flea markets, consignment shops and thrift stores to find ways to stretch a budget farther.

Plan a job search: You might absolutely love where you work and are willing to be a team player toughing out the downturn. But fortunes can deteriorate as well as improve at companies with severe cutbacks, so it’s wise to spruce up that resume while you have time to think about it and start networking just to see what’s going on in other parts of your industry, your city, or possibly in other cities. And if you can do it quietly, start lining up respected professionals to provide references.

What if Your Employer Doesn’t Want You to Retire? Planning for a Second – or Third – Career Act
Tuesday, July 28

The mass Baby Boomer retirement anticipated over the next 20-30 years is expected to create an overall U.S. labor shortage of 35 million workers. That’s potentially good news for future retirees who either want to work or need to work due to the recent investment downturn.

A recent study by Hewitt Associates showed that out of 140 mid-size and large employers, 55 percent already had evaluated the impact that potential retirements could have on their organization, and 61 percent have developed or will develop special programs to retain targeted, near-retirement employees. Only one in five said that phased retirement is critical to their company's human resources strategy today, that number more than triples to 61 percent when employers look ahead 5 years.

Phased retirement might be one of the great opportunities to repair the retirement debacle so many have suffered.

What’s phased retirement? Conventionally, it’s the process of allowing employees who have reached 59 ½ to cut their hours while voluntarily receiving a pro-rata portion of their pension annuities. The company gets to keep its intellectual capital in place a little longer while the worker gets to segue into retirement gradually while accessing some of their retirement assets along the way. Provisions in the Pension Protection Act of 2006 made it easier for companies to create phased retirement strategies. Hewitt said that in addition to retaining current employees, employers are reconsidering their policies toward rehiring retirees. While 45 percent indicated they currently have policies in place that limit the ability to rehire retirees, 46 percent said they would likely to review their rehiring policies in the future.

What kind of consideration process should you undertake if your employer offers this option? A good first step is to consult a financial planning professional to talk through the possibilities.

Envision how a phased retirement or return to your workplace would affect your life: If you’re reviewing your retirement planning at any age, it makes sense to ask yourself under what conditions you’d leave the workplace or return to it. If you were offered phased retirement, how would you deal with the cutback in responsibility and hours? Some people thrive on work relationships and might not know what to do with significant time outside the office. You obviously need to know based on current projections how much money you’re likely to gather from savings and other retirement resources. Then you need to consider how much money you’d be satisfied making in your post-retirement working life and for how many years you’ll earn that income.

See if there’s an opportunity to reshape a job or design a position from scratch: Older workers may not have the energy of their 20 and 30-year-old brethren, or maybe they just don’t want to spend their energy the same way. Older workers should be proactive about suggesting particular work structures that meet the company’s needs while accommodating the worker’s personal objectives. Telecommuting, flex time, shortened hours – these are options that might work as well for older workers as the rest of the remaining team.

Check what returning to work will do to your total retirement income: You obviously need to know based on current projections how much money you’re likely to gather from savings and other retirement resources. Then you need to consider how much money you’d be satisfied making in your post-retirement working life and for how many years you’ll earn that income. Early retirement transitions can have some adverse effects particularly where pensions are involved. If, but if the place where you spent your career comes calling, you might get some attractive pension incentives to get people to come back. Talk these options over with both financial and tax experts.

Can you negotiate for benefits? If you’re investigating post-retirement employers, including your own, see what benefits you’ll qualify for, and take a close look at educational benefits that may allow you to upgrade your skills for free. If your company will pay you to go to school and give you the time to actually work on a degree, that might be a very nice incentive indeed.

Consider insurance issues: If you are a retiree returning to the workforce and you’re already receiving Medicare or covered by a “Medigap” policy, you may be able to lower your costs or improve your coverage by accepting group coverage as primary underwriter of their medical expenses. Since people over age 55 are generally the greatest users of the healthcare system, coverage issues are particularly important to run by a financial expert.

Can you add to your existing pension? Some governments allow returning employees who have already retired to earn additional pension benefits or otherwise enhance their retirement nest egg. Make sure you understand what these opportunities might be and get some advice on how it might affect your own finances.

Keep saving: If you return to the workplace, see what you can do to take advantage of any new wrinkles in your employer’s 401(k) plan or any other tax-advantaged retirement savings benefits, particularly if they match your contribution. Don’t miss a chance to enhance your retirement savings, even if you’ve already retired once.

Re-setting the Business Exit Plan in a Tough Economy
Tuesday, July 28

The unpredictability of the markets and the economy has reset plenty of retirement plans, and that’s been especially true for business owners.

Business owners on the brink of retirement are facing potentially the worst conditions for selling or handing off a business in decades. But their circumstance should serve as a lesson to their younger counterparts. It’s critical to build an exit plan that works under both sunny and stormy conditions.

Exit plans are essential in companies large and small, and not strictly for the purpose of letting the owner and founder retire. They certainly set in motion a series of triggering events for the owner to get his or her money out of the business at retirement, but they also incorporate succession and other strategic moves a company might make to assure its future in family hands or in the hands of a new owner.

That said, an exit plan isn’t born in a day. In fact, many financial experts in investment, tax, valuation and estate planning disciplines think it’s wise for business owners to come up with the first broad strokes of an exit plan when they start a company if possible, and if not, within 3-5 years of the date they’d like to exit. A financial planning professional with specific business expertise can be a helpful liaison that works with other key professionals to help owners find answers to the broadest issues in any company’s exit plan, including:

• The family’s business legacy – should a business be passed on to family or associates, or should it simply be sold or closed?
• The owner’s own career goals – does he or she want to do this for the rest of their life, or should they make way for other professional or personal directions?
• The company’s overall creation of wealth – too many people think of a business as a job and a paycheck instead of a creator of wealth that can support one or more generations of a family. A paycheck supports short-term goals; wealth is accumulated money that can either be invested smartly in the business or outside the business to support philanthropy, or family and personal goals.
• The owner’s retirement strategy that allows them to do everything they’ve dreamed after they leave.

Planners can help owners get to more specific questions based on the broader goals they’ve discussed with family members:

• How many more years does the owner want to run this business?
• What’s the optimal way to get rid of the business when I’m ready to go – sell it, transfer it to family or associates or just close it down?
• What’s the value of the business now and how can it be made more valuable to potential buyers or for transition to the next generation?
• If the company is being transferred or sold to family members, is there a growth plan in place that they have contributed to and are therefore likely to follow?

• What happens if there’s an unforeseen event or market downturn that threatens the business or the industry as a whole? Are there healthy relationships in place with potential acquirers?
• What if there was a great offer on the business tomorrow?
• If the business is sold, how do owners protect themselves from a personal and business tax standpoint?
• How does the owner communicate his or her ideas with spouses, children and other family members with a stake in the business?
• What about employees, clients and customers? How will they be protected if the owner dies or leaves the business?
• How much money does the owner want after leaving the business and how should it be handled?
• How should investors in the business be compensated if the owner leaves?
• Are there specific goals that should be met by the business before the owner leaves?

An exit plan allows an owner not only to move out of a business, but also to make a wholesale career change. No one has to stay in the same industry – or company – for life, and with an exit plan, owners leave open the possibility for an endpoint that will allow them to travel, become philanthropic or engage in any number of new activities in business or other walks of life.

And while the economy is struggling back from the brink, many smart exit planners realize that there are ways to manage delayed transitions without losing valuable employees. For instance, many owners may elect to take a sabbatical while allowing next-generation leadership to get behind the wheel before an official transition takes place. Such a move lets the next generation steer the boat on the schedule they hoped for instead of standing in place while the owner found her best opportunity to go. The owner, meanwhile, benefits from the chance to step away from the day-to-day operation to better plan their future and the company’s.

Live Family-Friendly Theater Returns to the Michigan Theater
Thursday, July 23

2009-2010 Not Just for Kids series kicks off a new season

Families will find lots of action at the Michigan Theater this fall and winter with the return of the popular NOT JUST FOR KIDS series.

The Benard L. Maas Foundation NOT JUST FOR KIDS series presented by TOYOTA begins Sunday, October 25 with Click, Clack, Moo and runs through April 2010. Standard series subscriptions include a choice of either four or five performances. The Premium Series includes three additional family performances by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra.

The NOT JUST FOR KIDS schedule includes:

• Sunday, October 25, 1:30 pm – Click, Clack, Moo – A heart-warming musical about negotiation and compromise, based on the best-selling book.

• Sunday, December 6, 1:30 pm – Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing – A play about sibling rivalry from the book by Judy Blume. Sponsored by Blue Care Network.

• Sunday, February 7, 1:30 pm – Patchwork: The Little House Life of Laura Ingalls Wilder – Laura’s tales of outdoor adventure and pioneer spirit will inspire audiences as she and her family face the hardships and triumphs of a new land.

• Sunday, March 21, 1:30 pm – Are You My Mother? – This colorful musical adaptation of P.D. Eastman’s whimsical and well-loved picture book follows newly hatched Baby Bird in search of Mother Bird.

• Sunday, April 18, 1:30 pm – From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler – This enchanting new drama follows Claudia and her brother Jamie up the stone steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and right into an adventure sure to captivate audiences of all ages.

Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra concerts included in the premium season package:

• Sunday, November. 15, 4:00 pm – The Chenille Sisters with Ariel & Zoey
• Sunday, January 24, 4:00 pm – Mozart World Tour: Ann Arbor
• Sunday, March 14, 4:00 pm – Star-Spangled Music

Subscriptions offer both the best seating and significant savings over the single show prices. Subscriptions prices are very affordable, starting at only $40 for four shows to $80 for eight shows, depending on the package chosen.

All seats are reserved. Series tickets are on sale now through Oct. 22 only through the following channels:

• By mail to 603 E. Liberty St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104
• By phone at 734-668-8397 ext. 29
• By fax at 734-668-7136

Please visit the Michigan Theater web site for more information: http://michtheater.org/series_njfk.php

Single show tickets will go on sale Friday, September 4 at 10:00 am. All seats are reserved. Tickets are $14 and $12 for Michigan Theater members, available online at Ticketmaster.com and at all Ticketmaster outlets including Macy's and the Michigan Union Ticket Office. To charge by phone, call 800-345-3000. Service charges apply. Save on groups of 10 or more: call 734-668-8397, ext. 29.

The series is made possible in part through the generosity of the Benard L. Maas Foundation and Toyota, with additional support from Comerica Bank, AnnArbor.com and Blue Care Network of Michigan.

About the Michigan Theater
The Michigan Theater is Ann Arbor’s historic center for fine film and performing arts. Winner of the 2006 Outstanding Historic Theatre Award from the League of Historic American Theatres, it is located in downtown Ann Arbor at 603 East Liberty Street, across the street from Borders Books and Music. Regular movie prices are $9.00, $7.00 for students, seniors and US veterans, $6.50 for Michigan Theater members, $6.00 for all Wednesday screenings. Please visit the theater’s website at http://michtheater.org. The 24-hour information line is 734.668.TIME.

Adaptive Materials' Michelle Crumm is Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist
Thursday, July 16

Adaptive Materials co-founder and chief business officer Michelle Crumm is a finalist for Entrepreneur magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year award. The award, which recognizes entrepreneurial leadership and excellence, pits Crumm against four other entrepreneurs from around the U.S.

“To represent Adaptive Materials in a national competition, much less to be the only woman finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year competition, is humbling,” said Crumm. “The constant culture of innovation at Adaptive Materials fuels our success in the market. Being a finalist for the Entrepreneur of the Year award recognizes the meaningful advancement of our efforts to bring real, portable power to soldiers in the field and consumers who want to go off-grid.”

To qualify as a finalist, Crumm had to submit written essays on entrepreneurial challenges as well as her approach and outlook on start-up success. Crumm also had to produce a video on her entrepreneurial vision and her vision for Adaptive Materials.

Crumm’s profile and video are available to view at http://www.entrepreneur.com/e2009/vote/established.php.

Under Crumm’s leadership, Adaptive Materials has enjoyed run away success. The company’s achievements include placing second in a national wearable power prize competition sponsored by the Department of Defense Research and Engineering, achieving a record-breaking 10-hour fuel cell-powered aircraft flight and a 40-mile unmanned ground vehicle test drive.

About Adaptive Materials, Inc.
Based in Ann Arbor, Mich., Adaptive Materials is the leader in fuel cell innovations. At the forefront of portable power innovation, Adaptive Materials is the first company to develop, demonstrate and deliver a portable, affordable, and fuel flexible solid oxide fuel cell system. Unlike other fuel cells, Adaptive Materials’ systems are powered by lightweight, inexpensive and globally available propane. Adaptive Materials’ fuel cell system provides portable power to the United States Armed Forces as well as industries including recreational vehicles, boating, and medical devices. For more information, visit www.adaptivematerials.com.

AATA finalizes CEO contract with Ford
Thursday, July 16

The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) has named Michael G. Ford as its new chief executive officer. Ford, who has more than 25 years of experience in both public and private transportation, will begin work at AATA on Monday, July 20.
The AATA Board of Directors reached agreement with Ford on a compensation package which includes an annual salary of $160,000 plus benefits.

AATA Board Chair David Nacht praised the new CEO, saying, “Michael Ford has a terrific record of accomplishment managing traditional bus service, light rail and express buses. He has spent the bulk of his career at Tri Met in Portland, Oregon, which is a crown jewel of American transit. He has a consensus building teamwork approach that is consistent with our community’s values and style.

He also has the tenacity to ride a bicycle 200 miles from Seattle to Portland in one day, eleven times. If anyone can build the support to expand transit in our community, he is the guy!”

In making the announcement, Nacht also acknowledged the outstanding service of Dawn Gabay, who served as assistant executive director prior to 2007, when she was selected by the AATA board as interim executive director. Gabay will return to her previous responsibilities and assist the new CEO.

Before starting his own consulting firm in 2008, Ford served as chief operating officer and assistant general manager of the San Joaquin Rapid Transit District in Stockton, California.

Earlier, he served as executive advisor to the general manager and as director of transportation operations at Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation System (TriMet) in Portland, Oregon, and in several positions, including director of maintenance/operations at Community Transit in Everett, Washington. Previously, he held several management positions at Greyhound Lines in Spokane, Washington and has served as a board member of several non-profit organizations on the West Coast.

Ford earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and philosophy from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon and a master’s degree in business administration at City University of Seattle/Spokane.

In anticipation of his new position, Ford said, "I am very excited about the opportunity at AATA and working with the Board, staff and the community to propel the agency forward. I’m looking forward to becoming part of such a dynamic community.”

The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority was chartered in 1969 by the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as a special-purpose unit of government. AATA is supported through local, state and federal funds, and fare box revenues. AATA operates 27 public transit routes, paratransit services and carpool-vanpool matching and other transportation services to facilitate mobility throughout the urbanized areas of Washtenaw County.

TWC Joining Forces with Gilda's Club
Thursday, July 16

Today, the headquarter offices of The Wellness Community and Gilda's Club announced that as of July 1, 2009, they have joined forces to become one combined organization. This combination has enabled us to become the largest provider of psychosocial cancer support in North America.

As a partner or participant, and a friend of The Wellness Community - Southeast Michigan, we wanted you to hear this exciting news directly from us. We also want to share that we look forward to what the strength of this combined effort can mean for people touched by cancer in our region. Gilda's Club and The Wellness Community have long shared a commitment to providing for the critically important psychological and social needs of people touched by cancer. As a combined organization, we are confident that this commitment can have an even greater impact.

Since The Wellness Community - Southeast Michigan was created, we have enjo! yed a close collaborative relationship with the two Michigan Gilda's Clubs (in Royal Oak and Grand Rapids). On our local level, there will be no changes or disruption in programming - and there may be the opportunity for additional services to be introduced over time. As always, the community will continue to offer programs free of charge to people who need us, and the contributions made to The Wellness Community - Southeast Michigan will continue to remain local. We will retain our name The Wellness Community - Southeast Michigan, and will be co-branded with a new umbrella name, to be announced in late 2009.

Thank you for your continued involvement and support. As always, I welcome your calls if you have questions or comments. You can reach me at 734-975-2500(w), 734-883-2213(c), or via email at barb.hiltz@twc-semich.org.

Saline-based Sun Engineering Launches New Web Site Created by DesignHub
Monday, July 13

Sun Engineering, a Saline-based consulting engineering company, has launched its new company Web site.

The site was designed and developed by DesignHub, Inc., a creative services and marketing firm also headquartered in Saline.

Highlighting the new Web site are case studies that demonstrate how Sun Engineering supports engineering teams at every stage of product design and engineering – from initial concepts and designs through prototyping, testing, validation, and manufacture.

Site visitors will learn, for example, how Sun Engineering has helped design, analyze, and build armored military vehicles and advanced military aircraft for deployment in the Middle East and other troubled areas of the world. The site also tells how the company has contributed to the design of the experimental fuel cell-powered Ford Focus automobile and the redesign of Monaco Coach’s high-end “Signature” RV.

Another area of the new site details Sun Engineering’s standard process for supporting clients, both from its Saline headquarters and onsite at the clients’ own facilities. Testimonial quotes attest to the proven results the company has provided for clients.

A password-protected area of the new Web site enables Sun Engineering and its clients to exchange project files with confidentiality and security.

Designing and Developing the Site
DesignHub worked with Sun Engineering to plan and design the new Web site, then handled programming, testing, and launch of the site. DesignHub also edited and enhanced the site’s text based on rough content provided by Sun Engineering.

In addition, DesignHub performed a standard set of “best practices” to help optimize the new site for high rankings in relevant Web searches.

Sun Engineering’s new Web site has been built over DesignHub’s proprietary ContentHub content management system (CMS). This allows designated Sun Engineering personnel to make day-to-day updates to the site’s variable content themselves.

About Sun Engineering
Sun Engineering was founded in 1996 by Andrew Warner, P.E. The company has since grown to become a full-service team of professionals including engineers, designers, and administrators.

Sun Engineering’s first clients were defense contractors involved in developing military truck equipment. Enthusiastic referrals led to new clients in other areas of defense – including aerospace –as well as design and engineering teams working on automobiles, commercial trucks and truck equipment, and recreational vehicles and RV equipment.

Sun Engineering’s clients include such recognized industry leaders as Behr, Boeing, Ceradyne, Coachmen, DRS Keco, ESSI, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Griffin Armor, Harris Corporation, Heil Trailer, ITT Industries, International, Line Precision Inc., Lockheed Martin, Mack, Magna, Monaco Coach, Navistar Defense, Northrop Grumman, RBW Industries, Raytheon, Thetford North America, and others.

The company has also provided consulting engineering services to the U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA).

Further information is available from Sun Engineering, 7005 E. Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176. Phone: (734) 429-2002. Email: info@sunengineering.biz.

About DesignHub
DesignHub works with clients on Web site design and development, brand strategy and development, logo designs, brochures, newsletters, annual reports, advertising, direct mail, public relations, packaging and signage designs, and trade show displays, as well as marketing strategies and plans.

Principals of DesignHub include: Karen Ragland, business manager and account executive; Ted Chesky, creative director and graphic designer; and Chris Kochmanski, marketing strategist, copywriter, and account executive. The firm was founded in 1999.

In addition to Sun Engineering, DesignHub’s clients include A&H Lawn Service, Advanced Photonix Inc., Aluminum Supply Company, Berry & Associates, Berry Moorman PC, Carr Engineering, Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Center for Information Management (CIM), Chelsea and Bridgewater Lumber, Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea Milling Co., Chizek Custom Builders, Chrysler LLC, Corporate F.A.C.T.S., Crain’s Detroit Business, Daniels and Zermack Associates, Daycroft Montessori School, Dexter Research, Dimensional Engineering, Electrocon International, Evangelical Homes of Michigan, The First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, Hardwood Solutions, Homeowner Services of America (HSA), INSTALL Michigan, JPRA Architects, Lamaze Family Center of Ann Arbor, Marshall Sales Inc., McCreadie Group, McMullen Company, Metropolitan Building Services, Motawi Tileworks, OptiMetrics Inc., Packaging and Shipping Specialists (P.A.S.S.), Peters Building Co., Phoenix Contractors, Pitney Bowes MapInfo, Pointwise Real Estate Group,Power Wellness, Program for Automotive Labor and Education (PALE), Rand Construction, Renewal Ministries, the City of Saline, Saline District Library, Saline Parks and Recreation Department, Samson Senior Properties, The Shipman Company, SignGraphix, Sircon Corporation, Survey Sciences Group, Tisch Investment Advisory, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and Vinylife Hose Co.

Further information is available from DesignHub, Inc., 600 W. Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176. Phone: (734) 944-8705. Email: chris@design-hub.com.

Recovery Act Changes To SBIC Program Mean Increased Funding Available For Small Businesses
Monday, July 13

Effective today, small businesses that would otherwise have difficulty securing private equity or venture capital may find funding easier to get as a result of changes made as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Business Investment Company program.

“The Recovery Act expands SBA’s venture capital program to increase the pool of investment funding available to the Small Business Investment Companies licensed by SBA,” said SBA Administrator Karen G. Mills. “We believe those companies will be better equipped by these changes to help sustain and grow small businesses for their next important growth steps.”

SBICs are privately owned and managed venture capital firms which are licensed and regulated by SBA. SBICs use a combination of funds raised from private sources and money raised through the use of SBA guarantees to make equity and mezzanine capital investments in small businesses. There are approximately 338 SBICs with $17.4 billion in capital under management.

The changes made as part of the Recovery Act are:

The Recovery Act makes SBICs eligible for greater SBA guaranteed funding and requires SBICs to invest 25 percent of their investment dollars into “smaller” businesses. Also, the amount of funding an SBIC may invest in a single small business is set at 10 percent of an SBIC’s total capital rather than the previous limit of 20 percent of an SBIC’s private capital only. This translates to an effective 50 percent increase in funding available to a single business by an SBIC.

Maximum SBA funding levels to SBICs will increase up to three times the private capital raised by the SBIC, up to a maximum of $150 million for single SBICs, or up to $225 million for multiple SBICs that are under common control. The cap for all licensees was set at $137.1 million before the Recovery Act.

These limits are even higher for SBICs that are licensed after October 1, 2009, that certify that at least 50 percent of their investments will be made in small businesses located in low-income areas, up to $175 million for single licensees and up to $250 million for jointly controlled multiple licensees.

Changes made to the SBIC program under the Recovery Act are permanent.

Industry associations have commended SBA for these changes and SBA continues to encourage new SBICs to apply for licensing and actively participate in the program.

The SBIC program was created to stimulate the growth of America’s small businesses by supplementing the long-term debt and private-equity capital available to them. Since the SBIC program’s formation in 1958 through April 2009, it has invested approximately $56 billion in more than 106,000 small businesses in the United States. For more information about the SBA’s Investment Division and SBIC program, go to www.sba.gov/INV or call 1-800-U ASK SBA.

Overpopulation and Bad Economy Causing a Crisis at the Humane Society of Huron Valley
Friday, July 10

The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is literally bursting at the seams with kittens, puppies, cats and dogs of all ages and sizes. Cage space at HSHV is nonexistent and we want people to remember to make adoption their first option if they are ready for a pet.

“This time every year we always see a huge increase in the number of kittens coming into the shelter and this year is no exception,” said Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV Executive Director. “Unfortunately, we have also seen an overall increase in the number of other animal as well. The foreclosure crisis in Michigan coupled with job losses has caused a crisis for people and pets alike. We are committed to saving the lives of every healthy and treatable animal that comes into our care, but we need the community to help us achieve this goal.”

HSHV took in 133 pets in one week from June 26 through July 5, 2009 and the animal intake numbers since the beginning of the year are averaging about 120 companion animals each week.

“We helped 90 pets get adopted last week and while that was great, you can do the math and see why our shelter remains full,” said Renee Benell, HSHV Adoptions Coordinator. “We are unable to keep up with overpopulation because people do not get their animals spayed and neutered. Also, Michigan’s bad economy is adding to the misery. We just don’t have the space or the staffing to care for so many animals and holding too many animals puts the entire shelter at risk of a disease outbreak. We don’t want folks to adopt animals that they are not prepared to care for, but for those families ready to give a new animal a loving home, we need you to come out now.”

In order to quickly find homes for the pets, HSHV has reduced adoption prices and is holding special adoption days.

• AOGO – Adopt One Get One! (until further notice)
Adopt any kitten or cat and get the second one FREE. (The FREE feline must have the same adoption price)

• FREE Feline Fridays (until further notice)
Any cat over 7 months old is eligible for a FREE adoption on Fridays. HSHV adoption requirements apply.

• 3rd Annual Kittypalooza – Noon to 5 PM on Sunday, July 19, 2009
Over 200 kittens! Fun for the whole family including, crafts, pet clothes, bake sale, face painting, FREE lunch, and much more!

Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Area Convention and Visitors Bureaus to host press tour for travel writers July 12-15
Friday, July 10, 2009

The Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Area Convention and Visitors Bureaus are pleased to announce the arrival of 22 travel writers to Washtenaw County. These writers will be visiting the area from July 12-15. During their stay, they will be experiencing the best of what the area has to offer in food and drink, arts and culture, entertainment, and more.

The Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Area Convention and Visitors Bureaus worked with Geiger and Associates, a public relations company specializing in the travel and tourism industry, and several local businesses to arrange this tour. Geiger and Associates has previously conducted press tours in conjunction with the Michigan Tourism Office (Travel Michigan); a 2007 state-wide tour yielded an estimated $500,000 in press coverage promoting travel to the Ann Arbor area alone.

"We are delighted to share our community with these writers, and we look forward to the stories they will produce about their experiences here," said Ann Arbor Area Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Mary Kerr.

The writers come from across the country and contribute to several local, regional, and national publications, including Time magazine, Washington Post, USA Today, Chicago Sun Times, Chicago Tribune, Miami Herald, American Craft magazine, O magazine and others.

The writers will visit several area restaurants, The Purple Rose and Performance Network Theaters, The Ark, and several other popular destinations. They will also experience the first day of the Ann Arbor Art Fairs on Wednesday, July 15.

The Ypsilanti Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is a 501(c)6 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to enhance the economy of the Ypsilanti area and Washtenaw County through the promotion of the area as a destination for overnight visitors.

DesignHub Creates New Web Site for Bemis Farms Childcare and Preschool
Thursday, July 9

DesignHub, Inc., a Saline-based creative services and marketing firm, has designed and developed the new Web site for Bemis Farms Childcare and Preschool, also headquartered in Saline.

The Web site describes the play-based childcare programs that Bemis Farms offers for children as young as six weeks old at its main facility on Bemis Rd. The site also details Bemis Farms’ pre-kindergarten program, extended care programs for school-age children, and summer camp program for children ages 5 through 12, as well as the “kindergarten wrap” program, designed for working parents who need childcare services in the hours immediately after their child’s scheduled kindergarten session each day.

Visitors to the Web site can link from the home page, or anywhere else within the site, to a special section describing the pre-kindergarten, “kindergarten wrap,” and before/after-school care programs that Bemis Farms offers for children of Lincoln Consolidated Schools at the district’s Model, Redner, and Childs Elementary Schools.

Other site highlights include testimonials from parents who rely on Bemis Farms for childcare and preschool programs, a photo gallery, details on how to register for childcare services, and a downloadable enrollment packet. The site’s “Resources” page provides parents with links to other websites offering useful information on child-related topics such as healthcare, nutrition, education, and entertainment. A calendar of events and answers to frequently asked questions about Bemis Farms are coming soon.

More information about Bemis Farms Childcare and Preschool is available from the center at 77 W. Bemis Rd., Saline, MI 48176. Phone: (734) 944-1709. Email: andykbemisfarms@aol.com.

DesignHub works with clients on website design and development, branding, brochures, annual reports, newsletters, public relations, advertising, direct mail, packaging designs, trade show displays, and signage, as well as marketing strategies and plans.

In addition to Bemis Farms Childcare and Preschool, DesignHub’s clients include A&H Lawn Service, Advanced Photonix Inc., Aluminum Supply Company, Berry & Associates, Berry Moorman PC, Carr Engineering, Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Center for Information Management (CIM), Chelsea and Bridgewater Lumber, Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea Milling Co., Chizek Custom Builders, Chrysler LLC, Corporate F.A.C.T.S., Crain’s Detroit Business, Daniels and Zermack Associates, Daycroft Montessori School, Dexter Research, Dimensional Engineering, Electrocon International, Evangelical Homes of Michigan, The First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, Hardwood Solutions, Homeowner Services of America (HSA), INSTALL Michigan, JPRA Architects, Lamaze Family Center of Ann Arbor, Marshall Sales Inc., McCreadie Group, McMullen Company, Metropolitan Building Services, Motawi Tileworks, OptiMetrics Inc., Packaging and Shipping Specialists (P.A.S.S.), Peters Building Co., Phoenix Contractors, Pitney Bowes MapInfo, Pointwise Real Estate Group, Power Wellness, Program for Automotive Labor and Education (PALE), Rand Construction, Renewal Ministries, Returnable Packaging Corporation, the City of Saline, Saline District Library, Saline Parks and Recreation Department, Samson Senior Properties, The Shipman Company, SignGraphix, Sircon Corporation, Sun Engineering, Survey Sciences Group, Tisch Investment Advisory, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and Vinylife Hose Co.

Further information is available from DesignHub, Inc., 600 West Michigan Ave., Saline, MI 48176. Phone: 734.944.8705. Email: chris@design-hub.com.

Chambers USA Again Names Miller Canfield Among America’s Leading Lawyers for Business
Thursday, July 9

Chambers USA 2009, a referral guide designed to objectively present the best practitioners in the main areas of corporate law, has selected Miller Canfield as a top law firm in all six practice areas ranked in Michigan and has ranked the firm nationally. In addition, 22 of the firm’s lawyers are recognized as leading business lawyers – more than any other Michigan law firm for the fifth year in a row.

Miller Canfield was recognized nationally as a leader in Sports Law. In Michigan, the firm received the highest possible ranking in Commercial Litigation; Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation; and Labor & Employment Law; and was also recognized for Banking & Finance Law; Real Estate; and its Corporate/M&A work.

Those named leading lawyers in their specialty area in Chambers USA 2009 are:
Ann Arbor office: Gregory L. Curtner, Commercial Litigation and national recognition in Sports Law; Joseph M. Fazio, Real Estate; Stephen G. Palms, Real Estate

Detroit office: Orin D. Brustad, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation; Donna J. Donati, Labor & Employment; Leonard D. Givens, Labor & Employment; Jonathan S. Green, Banking & Finance: Bankruptcy; Kristin A. Hermann, Banking & Finance; David K. McLeod, Banking & Finance; Christopher A. McMican, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation; Megan P. Norris, Labor & Employment; Clarence L. Pozza, Jr., Commercial Litigation; Steven A. Roach, Banking & Finance: Bankruptcy; Richard J. Seryak, Labor & Employment; Carl H. von Ende, Commercial Litigation; Jerome R. Watson, Labor & Employment

Grand Rapids office: Charles (Sandy) Mishkind, Labor & Employment

Troy office: Thomas W. Cranmer, Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations; Ronald E. Hodess, Real Estate; David D. Joswick, Corporate/M&A; Ronald H. Riback, Banking & Finance; James A. Simpson, Real Estate

Chambers USA ranks firms and lawyers considered leaders in their field. A team of 50+ full-time researchers interview lawyers, clients and purchasers of legal services. Firms are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be ranked, making the guide a reflection of market opinion. For more information, visit www.chambersandpartners.com.

The law firm of Miller Canfield offers businesses, governments, nonprofits, individuals and families a broad array of integrated legal and business services in over 55 areas. With Michigan roots for 157 years and a global reach for two decades, the firm has more than 370 lawyers throughout offices in Michigan, Illinois, Florida, New York, Canada, Mexico, Poland and China. For more information, visit www.millercanfield.com.

HVA places CPAP units on ambulances
Monday, July 6

HVA recently placed CPAP units on all their paramedic emergency ambulances. When HVA paramedics treat patients with congestive heart failure (fluid build up in the lungs from heart disease) or emphysema, they often need to insert a breathing tube into the patient's airway (intubation), which results in the patient being placed on a respirator at the hospital. Now, using a device known as CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), paramedics can provide 100% oxygen with positive air pressure through a special mask over the patient's nose and mouth. This helps the patient breathe more effectively and avoid intubation. CPAPs also lower blood pressure and assist in removing fluids from the lungs. Home CPAPs are often prescribed for people with sleep apnea.

Our paramedics support using CPAPs because they are simple and non-invasive. If patients know that they may not be intubated, they are more likely to call 9-1-1 for help. CPAP is only a temporary fix — patients still need to go to an emergency department to continue their treatment. However, patients who are not intubated and put on respirators have shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times and lower treatment costs. Sometimes, the patient can be discharged the same day.

“We looked at the data and saw the positive results and better outcomes from using CPAPs so we knew it was the right thing for HVA to do for our patients,” states Dale Berry, HVA President and CEO.

HVA is one of only a few Michigan ambulance services offering this service on all paramedic units. CPAP is becoming a standard of care in high-quality EMS systems across the U.S. and HVA is proud to be at the forefront of this effort.

Huron Valley Ambulance is the nationally accredited, nonprofit community ambulance service covering Washtenaw County.

University of Michigan Museum of Art Announces New Friends Board Officers and Members
Wednesday, July 1

Three months after reopening its doors after a landmark expansion and restoration project, the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new officer and members to its Friends Board, one of the Museum’s volunteer non-governing boards specifically charged with cultivating membership and enhancing the Museum membership experience.

Neal Warling, President and CEO of Bluestone Realty Advisors in Ann Arbor, continues his term as President of the Friends Board, as do Laurie Prager as Vice President for Events and Programs and Nicole Brittis, as Secretary. Joining the Friends Board slate of officers as the Vice President for Membership is Cynthia Koch, a strategic planning, development, and evaluation consultant. New members of the Friends Board are Newcombe Clark, Kristina Glusac, and Techy Rodriguez-Doyle.

The Friends Board, which celebrated 40 years in 2008, consists of volunteers elected by the Friends membership to actively support the Museum’s mission through fostering the membership program that helps the Museum connect with its local, regional, and national audiences. Friends Board efforts focus on membership growth and retention and fund development, creating avenues of accessibility and community engagement with the visual arts and the Museum.

Throughout its history, the Museum’s volunteer advisory boards have provided critical support, responding to the changing needs of this dynamic and evolving institution. With UMMA living up to its potential as a meeting place for the arts bridging campus and community through its heightened profile, expanded university and public programming, and growing audiences—more than 85,000 visitors since the Museum reopened in late March of this year—its boards play an essential role in growing the Museum’s support base and advancing key projects and initiatives.

Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione Attorney and ACJ President Serves as Guest Speaker at State Bar of Michigan Legal Milestone Event
Wednesday, July 1

Lawrence G. (L.G.) Almeda, a shareholder in the Ann Arbor office of Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., served as a special guest speaker at the State Bar of Michigan’s 34th Michigan Legal Milestone event on June 19, 2009. Mr. Almeda is a prominent leader in Michigan’s Asian American community and serves as the President of American Citizens for Justice (ACJ), an organization that was formed in response to the 1982 murder of Vincent Chin, who was fatally beaten by two unemployed auto workers. The legal milestone event marked the 27th anniversary of Vincent Chin’s death and acknowledged how the murder case, where neither of the two men served any jail time, helped form the basis for state and federal changes on legal issues dealing with hate crimes, minimum sentence guidelines and victims’ rights.

In his remarks, Mr. Almeda, who was 15 years old at the time of Mr. Chin’s death, spoke of the fear and confusion he experienced in discovering that Mr. Chin was killed for the mere fact that he was of Asian descent, as is Mr. Almeda. He said the sense of injustice spurred his interest in the law and his ultimate involvement with Asian Pacific American issues and organizations such as ACJ. Mr. Almeda shared with the audience of legal, political and Asian dignitaries and activists that ACJ’s goals are to increase awareness of Asian history and culture within the public school system and encourage the addition of Asian languages such as Mandarin.

In addition to serving as President of ACJ, Mr. Almeda was appointed in April to the Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission for the State of Michigan by Governor Jennifer Granholm. He has been recognized by both Crain’s Detroit Business and Corp! Magazine for his commitment to diversity and is a federally-appointed member of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, State Advisory Committee. Mr. Almeda is also a member of the Governor's Advisory Council on Asian Pacific American Affairs, Assistant Regional Governor of the Central Region for the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association and a past president of the Michigan Asian Pacific American Bar Association. Additionally, he is a member of the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce, where he serves on the Global Strategic Committee.

At Brinks, Mr. Almeda chairs the firm’s Nanotechnology Group. His legal practice focuses on patent opinions and counseling in the medical, chemical, nanotechnology and alternative energy fields. Mr. Almeda earned his J.D. from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, where he was a published member of the Law Review, and a B.S. in chemical engineering from Purdue University. Additionally, he holds an L.L.M in intellectual property law from The John Marshall Law School.

Mr. Almeda resides in Canton.

Founded in 1917, Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione is based in Chicago with five additional offices across the country, including Ann Arbor, serving the intellectual property needs of clients from around the world. The firm is one of the largest IP law firms in the country, with more than 170 attorneys, scientific advisors and patent agents specializing in intellectual property litigation and all aspects of patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret, unfair competition, intellectual asset management, and technology and licensing agreements. Brinks routinely handles assignments in fields as diverse as electrical, chemical, mechanical, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, Internet and computer technology, as well as in trademarks and brand names for a wide variety of products and services. For more information, visit www.usebrinks.com.

Arbor Hospice Offers Summer/Fall Grief Support Groups
Wednesday, July 1

Arbor Hospice will offer several support groups this summer and through fall for men, women and children of all ages, to educate and support anyone who has experienced any loss through death. These support groups are available to anyone in the community whether or not they have received hospice care from Arbor Hospice. There is no charge to attend a support group, but donations are welcomed to help support Arbor Hospice programs.

Beginning on July 27 through August 31, General Loss will meet on Mondays from 7pm – 8:30pm To register, please call Arbor Hospice’s Grief Support Services at 734.794.5375 or email info@arborhospice.org by July 13. Please note, this group is six weeks long. The group will be held at Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, 48103.

Adult Loss of a Parent will meet on Mondays from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Sept. 21 through Nov. 9; Men’s Loss will meet Tuesdays from 7 – 8:30 p.m. Sept. 22 through Nov. 10; Loss of a Spouse or Partner will meet Wednesdays 10 – 11:30 a.m. or 7 – 8:30 p.m. Sept. 23 through Nov. 11; To register, please call Arbor Hospice’s Grief Support Services at 734.794.5460 or email info@arborhospice.org by Sept. 7. Please note, these groups are eight weeks long. The groups will be held at Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, Mich., 48103.

Pathfinders Family Group, for children over 5 years old, teens up to 17 years old and their families will meet Thursdays from 6 – 8 p.m. Oct. 1 through Nov. 19. Each night, pizza and beverages are provided. Pathfinders takes place at the Gretchen’s House next door to Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, Mich., 48103. For more information, please call 734.794.5460 or email mschultz@arborhospice.org

Grief is a complex journey that continues long after a significant person has passed on. The programs of Arbor Hospice’s Grief Services offer a safe environment where those who have experienced a loss can find comfort, support and hope.

Support groups are an opportunity to share with others their experience of losing a loved one. Focused support groups, such as those specifically for those who have lost a mother or spouse provide an environment to meet other individuals who have experienced a similar situation. Support group participants understand your story in a way that your family or friends may not comprehend.

About Arbor Hospice and The Arbor Hospice Foundation
For 25 years Arbor Hospice has been committed to providing quality, compassionate care for those experiencing the end-of-life journey. Arbor Hospice, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, is integrated into the community with the help of its experienced staff and caring volunteers through its certified hospice services, residential hospice facility, grief support services and community education programs. Arbor Hospice serves communities in Washtenaw and Western Wayne Counties and Downriver with branches in Ann Arbor, Northville and Trenton. The Arbor Hospice Foundation provides philanthropic support for programs and services provided to more than 6,000 individuals including patients, their families and community members served by Arbor Hospice. For more information, visit www.arborhospice.org or call 1.888.992.2273.

August 2009 at UMMA
Wednesday, July 1

Exhibitions

UMMA Projects: Lisa Anne Auerbach
July 11 through October 11, 2009
Often combining wry humor with a biting critique of the complacency and routine of modern life, Lisa Anne Auerbach’s subversive brand of post-punk, DIY aesthetics mixes art and politics in a manner both highly personal and thoroughly embedded in contemporary culture. Recent projects have addressed topics ranging from the current Iraq war to the politics of bicycling in a city of freeways. In her slogan-adorned sweater sets, each outfit becomes a wearable canvas, literally weaving together the personal and the political, the aesthetic and the everyday. Auerbach’s installation at UMMA will transform the Museum’s most highly visible space—the Irving Stenn Jr. Family Project Gallery—into a showcase for her politically charged, socially engaged knitwear. This unconventional installation will encourage viewers to ask questions about how we experience different types of cultural spaces and how both political and aesthetic discourses are framed in contemporary society.

This project is made possible in part by the W. Hawkins Ferry Fund and UMMA’s New Visions Venture Fund.

Francisco Goya: Los Caprichos
June 6 through August 30, 2009
The Museum of Art recently added to its collections a complete first edition (80 etchings) of Francisco Goya y Lucientes’s (1746–1828) famous set of prints Los Caprichos, which offers cutting social commentary on religion, prostitution, and the professional class. Although a number of the nightmarish and idiosyncratic images from the Caprichos may be familiar to visitors, it is rare to experience a complete set and even more exceptional to view a first edition in pristine condition, recently gifted to the Museum by the late Kurt Delbanco in honor of Nicholas Delbanco. This exhibition presents some of Goya’s most iconic—and disturbing—imagery with a delicacy and beauty that is rarely encountered.

Untitled (History Painting): Painting and Public Life in the 21st Century
May 23 through September 20, 2009
The use and translation of photographic imagery is perhaps the most significant development in painting of the past half century. At the same time, photographic media have long since taken over the representation of real-world events, both contemporary and historical. Untitled (History Painting): Painting and Public Life in the 21st Century investigates painting’s continuing viability as a means of addressing historical events and how they are represented in a culture dominated by photographic and digital media. The artists in the exhibition are united both by their use of photographic (or cinematic) source material drawn from the public sphere and by their engagement with questions of historical representation and collective memory. Devoted exclusively to work produced since the year 2001, Untitled (History Painting) charts a dynamic constellation of positions at the intersection of painting, photography, and the public imagination. Rather than simply illustrating the impact of photography or current events on contemporary painting, these positions represent an active, critical engagement with some of the most pressing issues facing artists and viewers today.

This exhibition is made possible in part by the University of Michigan Office of the Provost.

Treasures Rediscovered: Chinese Stone Sculptures from the Sackler Collections at Columbia University
May 23 through August 16, 2009
This exhibition features 22 important sculptures that now for the first time can be ascribed to specific Buddhist sites such as Xiangtanshan, Longmen, and Tianlonghshan. The sculptures—steles, full figures, and heads of divinities, as well as funerary objects—provide a comprehensive view of how art manifests ritual practice and reveal, through iconography, the transmission and transformation of cultures from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) through the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). The exhibition will explore both indigenous and imported trends during the period. Emphasis will be placed on works from the sixth century CE, a time of great intellectual ferment and artistic creation, when change and innovation occurred in political and Buddhist centers in China.

This exhibition and tour are organized by the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Art Gallery, Columbia University.
Major support for the exhibition and the accompanying catalogue came from the AMS Foundation for the Arts, Sciences, and Humanities, the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Foundation, and an anonymous donor. Contributions were also received from Giuseppe Eskenazi, London; Dorothy Tapper Goldman; James J. Lally; Dr. David and Mrs. Elvi Menke; and Howard and Mary Ann Rogers.

The Ann Arbor presentation is made possible in part by the University of Michigan Office of the Provost and Center for Chinese Studies.

Events

Hands-on art making
UMMA will be a site for regular opportunities to make art! On Thursday evenings this summer from 6:30 to 9 pm take a workshop with the Ann Arbor Art Center at the new UMMA. Courses are one or two sessions long and designed for anyone over the age of 16 who would like to create. Register online at www.annarborartcenter.org.

Art Workshop: Calligraphy and Brush Painting
Thursday, August 6, 6:30 pm AND Thursday, August 13, 6:30 pm
Multipurpose Room
This is a two-session workshop. Learn first hand from the ancient masters represented in UMMA’s wonderful collection of Chinese painting. Using the “four treasures”—ink stone, ink sticks, brush, and paper— you will explore a variety of traditional methods of landscape and floral still-life painting.
$50/ $45 for UMMA and AAAC members; materials fee $16

Art Workshop: Techniques using Conté Crayon
Thursday, August 20, 6:30 pm AND Thursday, August 27, 6:30 pm
Multipurpose Room
This is a two-session workshop. Try an incredible challenge: to create artwork using shades of just one color! View prints, drawings, and other two-dimensional works before returning to the studio to try your hand at conté crayon techniques. Please bring a drawing pad suitable for conté. Crayons will be provided by instructor.
$50/ $45 for UMMA and AAAC members

Evenings in the Commons
"Evenings in the Commons" is a new series at UMMA offering free, drop-in activities and programs in partnership with local artists, teachers, and venues. It will include concerts, yoga, video games, and who knows what, so check our website (www.umma.umich.edu) weekly for details!

Feldenkrais Method Awareness Through Movement
Tuesday, August 11, 7–8:30 pm
UMMA Commons
Engage your brain and your body in playful movement explorations that help develop greater flexibility, balance, coordination, and posture. Learn to overcome inappropriate habits and make movement more difficult and less comfortable than it needs to be. Discover an effortless childlike quality to movement. Relax, re-energize, renew. Please bring your own mat, water, etc.

Bichini Bia Congo Dance Theater Company
Thursday, August 20, 6–8 pm
UMMA Commons
Established in 1979, Bichini Bia Congo promotes the preservation and practice of African culture through its dynamic performances of Congolese performing arts. African traditions are communicated through dance, music, song, and drumming.

Francisco Goya: Los Caprichos
Thursday, August 6, 5pm
Works on Paper Gallery
Senior Curator of Western Art Carole McNamara will explore some of the themes presented in Los Caprichos, UMMA’s pristine set of etchings by Francisco Goya, including scathing critiques of contemporary Spanish mores, the aristocracy, and the Catholic church, as well as the visual approaches that Goya employed to communicate those criticisms.

Treasures Rediscovered: Chinese Stone Sculpture
Sunday, August 16, 3 pm
Alfred Taubman Gallery II
UMMA's Research Curator of Asian Art Natsu Oyobe will discuss this exhibition, which presents 22 Chinese stone sculptures from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) through the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE).

Guided Tours: The New UMMA
Saturday, August 1, 2pm
Sunday, August 2, 2pm
Saturday, August 8, 2pm
Sunday, August 9, 2pm
Saturday, August 15, 2pm
Sunday, August 16, 2pm
Saturday, August 22, 2pm
Sunday, August 23, 2pm
Saturday, August 29, 2pm
Sunday, August 30, 2pm

UMMA
525 South State Street, Ann Arbor, 48109-1354
Information: 734.763.UMMA; www.umma.umich.edu
Galleries open Tue, Wed, Sat, 10 am to 5 pm; Thu, Fri, 10 am to 10 pm; Sun, noon to 5 pm; Building open seven days a week, 8 am to midnight.
Closed July 4, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Admission is free.