the chamber news nov

THE CHAMBER NEWSNovember 2012 | Vol. 12 | No. 11

A publication of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

New! Business Matters—The Breakfast SeriesKicks Off November 18!

The Chamber is connecting buy-ers and vendors at the 2012 Purchasing Expo on Nov. 14!

Former Con-gressman Joe Schwartz to speak at 2012 Health Care Summit on Nov. 16!

Spark your inspiration and leadership with Dr. Lance Secre-tan at Chamber’s 125th Annual Meeting!

Nominations now accepted for the 2013 Diversity Visionary Award... thru Dec. 5!

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Find out what’s new with Cham-ber members: new products, services, employ-ees, awards... and more!

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Build Your Business with Chamber Connections

The Chamber is pleased to an-nounce the launch of a brand new monthly program de-signed to get the conversa-tions and connections going! This month, we are introducing Business Matters—The Break-fast Series, a spin-off from our weekly radio show on WJRW 1340 AM. Like the Business Matters radio show, the new Breakfast Series aims to facilitate discus-sions about business topics, leadership lessons, and updates on the latest developments in the Grand Rapids business community. This is your chance to hear directly from local business leaders and keep in touch with community happenings and changes. Each month speakers will present different topics and offer new insights that can help you grow your business. This is a perfect opportunity to build your network, learn what’s going on, and tap expert know-how. Join us for Business Matters—The Breakfast Series in November and December!

For 125 years, the Grand Rapids Area Chamber has been helping entrepreneurs tackle the learning curve that comes with growing a business and building meaningful con-nections. Many of our small business members, which represent 80% of membership, come to the Chamber looking for new and innovative ways to expand their reach or grow their market share. What they find through Chamber programming and business concierge services are new customers, access to industry experts and valuable resources that add to their network of community and business connections. For Doreen Bolhuis of Gymco, Inc., it was an unexpected Chamber connection that led her in a new direction for potential business growth. After participating in the Cham-bers’ recent East-West exchange activities between Detroit and Grand Rapids—includ-ing Chamber tours and the House Parties—she realized that Detroit could be a possible future location for the Gymco expansion plan she was working on. “This is a thought that would not have occurred except for the experiences of the East-West exchange. It challenged my view of Detroit and created excitement and hope,” said Bolhuis. “The exchange fostered the beginning of partnerships that will help strengthen the business community in our state, and I now have an invaluable business network in Detroit which would help me navigate should we decide to expand into that area.”

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www.grandrapids.org2 The Chamber News November 2012 | Issue Sponsor: Flagstar Bank 3The Chamber NewsNovember 2012 | Issue Sponsor: Flagstar Bankwww.grandrapids.org

The Chamber News Editorial Policy

Recycle Me

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

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

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

The Chamber News (USPS 357-010) is published monthly by the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. 111 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.p: 616.771.0300 | f: 616.771.0318 | www.grandrapids.orgSenior Editor: Latricia Trice | 616.771.0332 | [email protected]: Leslee Fritz | 616.771.0357 | [email protected]: Blaine Puckett | [email protected] Editor: AliciaMarie Belchak | [email protected]

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

RIBBON CuttingsCongratulations to the following members who celebrated grand openings, anniversaries and new additions! If you have an upcoming groundbreaking, grand opening, product launch event, or other reason to celebrate, visit www.grandrapids.org/ribboncuttings to see how we can help. We even bring the giant scissors!

Plainfield Avenue between Leonard and Ann Streets is open for business following a summer long construction project. Support one of 37 member companies in the Plainfield North Quarter!

Verizon Wireless opened their new full service, LEED Cer-tified Store at 1979 East Beltline Ave, adjacent to Kitchen 67.

20 years in business was celebrated by Williamson Em-ployment Services at their offices located at 3940 Broad-moor SE.

A 5 year anniversary was celebrated by El Granjero Mexi-can Grill at 950 Bridge St NW.

i3 Business Solutions located at 560 Fifth St NW, Suite 404, celebrated their 20 year anniversary.

CityFlatsHotel celebrated the grand opening of their new Ballroom located at 77 Monroe Center in down-town Grand Rapids.

Congratulations go out to DADDS Magic Bus located at 407 Turner St NW on their 25th anniversary.

CHAMBER News & Notes

A 10 year birthday celebration was held by the Prince Conference Center located at 1800 East Beltline SE on the campus of Calvin College.

A grand opening celebration was hosted by Jenuine Creations in their new location at 560 5th St NW, Suite 110.

We are excited to offer a new monthly ATHENA program de-signed to connect emerging leaders with established pro-fessionals through networking, roundtable discussions, and professional development opportunities. Join us for lunch on November 13 at the inaugural ATHENA Leadership Forum. We will be focusing on the eight tenets of the ATHENA Leader-ship Model throughout the year. Our first forum will feature this year’s ATHENA Young Professional Recipient, Mindy Ysasi Casta-ñon, speaking on the tenet of relationships—connecting with and embracing others and appreciating the gifts and talents of different people in your life. Open the doors of conversation, networking, support, and community building at the ATHENA Leadership Forum!

Date | Tuesday, November 13Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Location | Inner City Christian Federation (ICCF), 920 Cherry Street SECost | $20, lunch includedRegistration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/athenaleadershipfo-rum or Contact Alexis Rangel at [email protected] or 616.771.0341 to register.

Leadership Advantage

The Leadership Advantage program is ideal for high-performing leaders and professionals seeking new opportunities to grow personally and professionally and those who have a strong in-terest in community leadership. Leadership Advantage maxi-mizes the leadership potential of professionals from business, non-profits and government with an eight-session program that emphasizes the unique skills individuals possess. Limited to 12 participants, this program provides participants the opportu-nity to transform their best talents into a leadership foundation through critical thinking, dialogue, peer-to-peer coaching, and inter-sector/inter-disciplinary learning.

Applications for Leadership Advantage will be available online at www.cclgr.org/programs from November 1 through December 28. Sponsorship opportunities are available, contact Leslee Fritz at 616.771.0357 or [email protected] for information.

ATHENA Leadership Forum: Develop, Connect, Build Relationships

Congratulations to all of the Chamber members who were recently recognized by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council as “Stars of Supplier Diversity” at the 29th Annual Awards ceremony!

Corporation of the Year: Commercial Products Herman Miller, Award Recipient Steelcase, finalist Consumer Products DTE Energy, Award Recipient Consumers Energy, finalist Educational & Governmental Entities Grand Rapids Community College (GRACC), finalist Finance & Insurance Blue Cross Blue Shield, Award Recipient AAA Michigan, finalist Comerica Bank, finalist Healthcare Spectrum Health, finalist Professional DWH (formerly DW Associates), finalistCorporate Buyer of the Year: Local Ulysee Rice, Jr. , Blue Cross Blue Shield, Award Recipient Mansfield Matthewson, GRCC, finalistSupplier of the Year: Class I Jim Roberts Enterprises LLC, Award Recipient

Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council Awards


The Chamber News helps you get to know fellow members by profiling two organizations in each issue. Email [email protected] if you would like to be profiled in a future member spotlight.

ROBINETTE’S APPLE HAUS & WINERYAfter 101 years of operation, Robinette’s Apple Haus & Win-ery has been part of many family memories and fall festivities. Founded in 1911, the Centennial Farm offers more than just fruit

and fresh cider. Customers rel-ish Robinette’s slew of fresh bakery items, sandwiches, donuts, caramel corn, home-made fudge, cookies, and gift baskets. The packed gift shop provides plentiful shopping for holiday items, children’s

gifts, bags/purses, and more. Fall family fun takes on full swing at Robinette’s with wagon rides and a corn maze, a mountain bike trail, an inflatable bounce pillow, and the ever-popular photo with the big apple. Since 2006, Robinette’s has also added wine tasting to the roster of activities—featuring 21 Michigan-made wines for sampling along with Robinette’s own hard cider, dubbed Barzilla’s Brew in honor of the farm’s founding name-sake, Barzilla. The diversity of Robinette’s products and services generates the farm’s long-standing appeal, according to Ed Robinette, president of Robinette’s Inc. “We don’t cater to just one type of customer,” he said, adding that “you must be able to change with the times and be willing to try new things. If you don’t adapt, you will fail.” Today, Robinette’s is proud to be a third generation, fami-ly-owned business that employs fifth generation family mem-bers. “We very much appreciate our customers, employees and family members as well as organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber,” noted Ed, who relies on Chamber connections and networking. “The Chamber is business-friendly, and that’s a rare thing these days.”

FETTIGAmeritemp Staffing has a new name and look! Now known as Fettig, they are providing the same high-quality staffing services with trial hire and direct placement for skilled manufacturing, light industrial, clerical, and administrative positions. When the

right person matters to your business, Fettig is the place to find them—and if you are looking for the right career path, Fettig helps you reach your goals. “It’s not about matching

a resume to a job description; it’s about chemistry, culture, and fit,” said Chief Customer Satisfaction Officer Kim Fettig. “It takes experience to do that well. Better recruiters mean better people.” In 2007, Fettig purchased the former Ameritemp Staffing firm and built on its reputation that harkened back to 1995—tapping into its niche of expertise in semi-skilled and skilled manufactur-ing. Today, the firm has expanded staffing services and a recruit-ing team of 10 placing talent that meets the specific skill sets and broadened needs of employers. The name change to Fettig emphasizes the placement firm’s nature as a family-owned busi-ness and better represents its staff, culture, and values. “We feel so strongly about our company, our history, and our future that we put our name on it,” noted Kim. “It’s fun to be in business when your customers love your service. If you have the right people and a culture where they can thrive, you can do anything.” Fettig has been a Chamber member since Kim first bought the business, knowing the value of membership first-hand from his previous 27 years of business experience. “I believe in the value of a strong Chamber of Commerce and having a collective voice that speaks on behalf of small business both to the community and to Lansing,” Kim said.

MEMBERS In The Spotlight

Visit www.robinettes.com to learn more and plan a fruitful trip to Robinette’s!

Visit Fettig online at www.fettigteam.com to start your talent search!

Former Congressman Joe Schwarz will speak at the 2012 Health Care Summit on November 16 at the Thousand Oaks Golf Club. Schwarz currently is a physician at the Family Health Center in Battle Creek and serves as chair of the Michigan Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease. Schwarz joins a line up of Health Care Summit presenters talking about the options for future health insurance affecting your business as well as chronic disease, employer tips, and the impact of the November election:

• James Haveman, Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health, will highlight the state’s efforts to improve health, wellness, and affordability and the status of implementing federal health care following the election

• Christopher Ward, Deputy Vice President for International Alliance Development at PhRMA, will deliver his talk, Containing Employee Healthcare Costs by Managing the Growing Burden of Chronic Disease

• Mary Bauman, a Partner from Miller Johnson, will share “what employers need to know,” delivering the bottom-line information you can take back to your company and implement tomorrow

The event will also include a panel discussion featuring private sector peers, industry experts and elected officials. The 2012 Health Care Summit—presented by the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in partnership with the West Michigan Association of Health Underwriters—is expected to draw 200+ community leaders and business owners, CEOs, presidents, and human resource professionals. Make sure you are one of them; join us to learn more about the health care issues affecting your business! Date | Friday, November 16 Time | 7:30 – 11:45 a.m. Location | Thousand Oaks Golf Club, 4100 Thousand Oaks Drive NE Cost | $25 member / $35 future members

Visit www.grandrapids.org/hcsummit or call 616.771.0300 to register or find more information.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, contact Leslee Fritz at 616.771.0357 or [email protected] for more information.

Former Congressman to Speak at 2012 Health Care Summit

Making new Chamber connections can also stem from par-ticipation in committees and discussion groups, as NeXt I.T. CEO Eric Ringelberg well knows. “The Chamber team has been awe-some to work with through the years—always available to help me,” he noted. “I am involved in a few committees and the CEO Roundtable. I have met a lot of other business owners through the Chamber and have made some good friends along the way.” Kim Gilpin at FASTSIGNS® of Grand Rapids knows firsthand how the Chamber is working hard to connect members to the people and resources that get things done. The printing compa-ny has grown from four employees to 11 and has recently nearly doubled floor space with a 5100 sq. ft. facility. “The Chamber provides small businesses a level of confi-dence—knowing we have such a strong organization to turn to if we are in need,” Gilpin said. “This is so important to know we have a resource who has our best interest as part of their mis-sion.”

Discover how the power of the Chamber can help you. Get involved today. Contact Janet Wyllie at 616.771.0331 or [email protected] to find out more.

Build Your Business, from Page 1

Breakfast Series, from Page 1

Event Underwriter

November 20: Leading an Organization Through Change — Dan Gaydou, MLive Media GroupPlus, a community update from Brian Ryks, Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

December 18: Innovation - Why It’s Critical in All Stages of Business — Mike Suman, Product & Market Development, LLCPlus, a community update from Kris Larson, Downtown Development Authority.

Time | 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.Location | The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 2500 South Division Ave. SWCost | $18 members, $25 future members (includes hot breakfast)Registration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/businessmatters or call 616.771.0303 to RSVP!

Contact Janet Wyllie at [email protected] or 616.771.0331 for more information.


Member FDIC

1 To qualify for this offer, Prospect must maintain a minimum balance of $5,000 at their current bank, submit required documentation and Flagstar Bank must decline to match or beat current bank’s pricing. This offer is not applicable if Prospect declines servicing savings offer above. To qualify for the $100 Dare to Compare offer, Prospect must submit required documentation and Flagstar Bank must decline to match or beat current bank’s pricing. The Dare to Compare offer is not applicable if Prospect declines servicing savings offer above.

2 Offer is available to all businesses with a tax identification number, not including sole proprietorships, with the exception of any Money Service Business (MSB) and those businesses who do not currently pay deposit and checking account service fees. Offer expires December 31, 2012. To participate, Prospect must provide the three most recent and concurrent months of monthly demand deposit account statements including the billing/analysis statement sufficient for a review of the customary and ordinary service fees for business deposit and checking activity. Offer does not apply to ancillary checking account services such as NSF, overdraft protection, wire transfers, and special reporting. Offer is not available on account conversions or in combination with any other checking account offer and is nontransferable. Prospect must provide the tax identification number as the bonus is considered interest and will be reported on IRS Form 1099-INT. Account opening and award are subject to approval. Please contact a business banker for details. Product offerings differ per geographic region. To qualify for the New Client Cash Bonus offer, Prospect must open a business checking account and deposit $5,000 or more within 30 days of Flagstar Bank’s offer with funds currently not on deposit with Flagstar Bank, FSB. Account must maintain average daily positive collected balance of $5,000 for twelve (12) months. Bonus payment is calculated by taking the monthly savings on ordinary business deposit and checking service fees of comparable services at previous financial institution, multiplied by 12, and is payable in a one-time bonus of up to $500 per taxpayer ID. Eligibility for the bonus payment is based on the level of business as evidenced by the three (3) most recent monthly statements provided. Eligible bonus amount will be automatically deposited into Prospect’s checking account within 150 days after account opening. Checking account must remain open for a minimum of 12 months [with the minimum average daily positive collected balance of $5,000] or the bonus amount will be debited from the account at closing. Employees of Flagstar Bancorp are not eligible. Business Account service fee pricing is reviewed annually and subject to change.

Open an account today. (888) 324-4100 flagstar.com/bizchecking

Meet with Flagstar today for a quick review of your current bank’s fees. We think we can help you get rid of those fees. If we can’t, we’ll give you $100.1 Better yet, if we can and you open a Flagstar Business Checking Account, we’ll give you a cash bonus up to $500.2 Save money. Make money. It starts by calling Flagstar.

Personal • Mortgage • Business • Commercial

You’re paying your bank too much. We’ll prove it and pay you.

Up to a $500 cash bonus.2

Flagstar Bank is the largest financial institution headquartered in Michigan. We’re also one of the 15 largest savings banks nationally. We’ve been in business for 25 years and first entered the West Michigan market with the opening of our Grand Rapids office on 44th Street in 1997. That same year, we established a presence in Kalamazoo, and the following year, opened offices in Grand Haven and Holland. We’ve been involved in the Grand Rapids community through a number of sponsorships over the years, including the Grand Rapids Symphony, Meijer Gardens, and most recently, ArtPrize, where we sponsored pre- and post-volunteer events. In Holland, we’ve traditionally supported the Tulip Time Festival and in Grand Haven, the Coast Guard Festival. From a business perspective, besides the chamber, we’ve sponsored events with local units of Inforum, the Michigan Association of CPAs, and the West Michigan Association of Financial Professionals. Today, we have 17 branches in West Michigan and three home loan centers specializing in mortgages and refinances.

Help with mortgages also is available from certified lenders at our local branches. With almost $24 billion in residential mortgage originations during the first six months of 2012, Flagstar is one of the leading originators of residential mortgages in the United States. Our branches offer a full menu of checking, savings, lending, and investment products and services — all delivered with award-winning service. And, as a special benefit to our personal checking account customers, we offer free access to a network of more than 750 ATMs in Michigan.

Bringing more great to Grand.

Member FDIC

To talk to Ed about business opportunities, please call (616) 285-2262 or email [email protected].

To jump start its business banking in the area, Flagstar hired veteran Grand Rapids banker Ed Ryan.

Ed started recently as senior vice president in charge of business banking for Grand Rapids, Lansing, Holland, and Grand Haven. Prior to joining Flagstar, Ed was with Macatawa Bank, but most of his career

— 29 years — was with Old Kent Bank, now Fifth Third Bank. “Grand Rapids has been my home for 34 years,” Ryan said. “There’s nothing I like better than working with businesses to help them succeed. It’s fun to be on the ground floor of a bank that has great products, terrific people, and is ready, willing, and able to serve the Grand Rapids business community.” Ryan said Flagstar has a robust line of products for business customers.

“Whether it’s credit to grow and purchase inventory or treasury products to manage cash flow, we’ve got it covered,” he said.

Paid Advertisement


Upcoming Chamber Events To Register Unless otherwise noted, register for events at www.grandrapids.org/events. Or, call the RSVP hot line at 616.771.0303 (please have your credit card information handy when you call). Questions about events? Call 616.771.0300. Special needs: Vegetarian meals are available, please let us know your dietary requirements when registering. Reasonable arrangements for people with disabilities will be made if requested in advance.

November

1-2 | Facing RacismThis intensive two-day program seeks to combat and heal the wounds of racism by dissecting the complexities of racism and examining U.S. history, race, institutional power, self-awareness, privilege, and anti-racism. Time | 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.Location | Steelcase Inc., 901 44th Street SECost | Member rate: $200/person from nonprofit organi-zations, $300/person from for-profit; $50 extra for future membersRegistration | Contact Farris Withers at [email protected] or 616.771.0321

7 | New Member ConnectionsBegin your involvement with the Chamber by networking with other new members!Time | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Location | Watermark Country Club, 5500 Cascade Road SECost | Free for new members (in first year of membership), includes light lunch.Registration | Call the RSVP Hotline at 616.771.0303 or contact Mark Allen | [email protected] | 616.771.0348 (online registration is not available) Sponsored by:

8 | Business Exchange LuncheonThe Chamber’s #1 Networking event!Time | 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.Location | Bluff Banquet Center, 2035 28th St SECost | $18/member-early registration, $23/member after 5 p.m. Nov. 2, $23/future member (may only attend once)Sponsored by:

13 | ATHENA Leadership ForumOpen the doors of conversation, networking, support, and community building for emerging women leaders!Date | Tuesday, November 13Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Location | Inner City Christian Federation (ICCF), 920 Cherry Street SECost | $20, lunch includedRegistration | Visit www. grandrapids.org/athenaleadershipforum

13 | Silent Observer’s 40th Anniversary Fundraising RoastYou’re invited to attend “The Comeback Tour” as we roast again our favorite past participants: John Canepa, Mike Jandernoa, Diana Sieger, Hon. Sara Smolenski, David VanAndel & Michelle VanDyke!Time | 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.Location | Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Ambassador Ballroom, 187 Monroe Avenue NWCost | $125 for individual tickets; sponsorships vary and include a table for eightSponsored by: The Douglas & Maria DeVos Foundation

14 | Purchasing ExpoFor description, see page 8

15 | Politics & PintsConnect with elected officials over a pint or two, and learn how you can get more engaged with the political process in our community and state.Time | 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.Location | Pyramid Scheme, 68 Commerce Avenue SWCost | $20Sponsored By:

16 | Health Care SummitLearn about the options for future health insurance affecting your business. Special focus on chronic disease, employer tips, and the outcome of the election.Date | Friday, November 16Time | 7:30 – 11:45 a.m.Location | Thousand Oaks Golf Club, 4100 Thousand Oaks Drive NECost | $30Sponsored by:

20 | Business Matters - The Breakfast SeriesFor description, see front cover

Registration and Cancellation Policy: Prepay-ment of events is required and guarantees a res-ervation. Cancellations must be received at least two business days prior to an event to be eligible for a full refund. No-shows will be billed.

9The Chamber NewsNovember 2012 | Issue Sponsor: Flagstar Bankwww.grandrapids.org

December

13 | Business Exchange LuncheonThe Chambers #1 Networking Event!Time | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Location | Grand Rapids Hilton Airport, 4747 28th Street SECost| $18/member-early registration, $23/member after 5 p.m. December 7, $23/future member (may only attend once) Sponsored by:

18 | Business Matters - The Breakfast SeriesFor description, see front cover

Who have you bought from lately? Who has purchased from you? It’s easy for purchasing agents and office managers to get in a rut with buying habits. Break out of the mold with the Cham-ber’s 2012 Purchasing Expo on November 14—we’re bringing purchasing agents and vendors together! Do you handle purchasing for your organization? Become an exhibitor to share your purchasing needs! The 2012 Purchasing Expo is great place to expand your supplier list! You will be asked to provide a list products and services you’re currently looking for. Are you a business owner looking to build your customer base? Attend the 2012 Purchasing Expo and be prepared to share how your services or products can benefit exhibitors looking to buy! You don’t want to miss this chance network with companies looking for vendors! A list of items and services exhibitors are seeking will be available for review on the Chamber’s website prior to the event.

Buyers and representatives from various West Michigan companies will be in attendance, including:American Seating CompanyFifth Third Bank Grand Rapids Community CollegeTDS Date | Wednesday, November 14Time | 8:00 – 11:00 a.m.Location | Centennial Country Club, 3361 Charlevoix Dr. SECost | $40 to exhibit as a purchasing representative$15 members/$25 future members to attend; a continental breakfast will be served.Registration | Visit www.grandrapids.org/purchasingexpo to register and find out more!Exhibitors | Contact Janet Wyllie at 616.771.0331 or [email protected] for details.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, contact Leslee Fritz at 616.771.0357 or [email protected] for more in-formation.

2012 Purchasing Expo: Get Connected with Businesses & Buyers

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2013 Diversity Visionary Award! If you believe a person or company is deserving of this recognition, complete and send the brief nomination form by December 5. Nominees will be notified and receive an application for completion by December 26. Self nominations will be accepted as well. Established in 2003, the Diversity Visionary Award celebrates a person’s or organization’s exemplary leadership, accomplishments, and sustained commitment to foster the inclusion of diversity. Celebrated every other year, The Diversity Visionary Award recipient will be honored at a dinner event on March 20, 2013 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Past recipients include: Robert Woodrick, 2003 James Hackett, 2005 Cascade Engineering, 2007 Warner Norcross & Judd, 2009 Bing Goei, 2011Visit www.grandrapids.org/visionaryaward or email [email protected] for a nomination form today!

Diversity Visionary Award 2013: Call for Nominations

Event Underwriter

11The Chamber NewsNovember 2012 | Issue Sponsor: Flagstar Bankwww.grandrapids.orgwww.grandrapids.org10 The Chamber News November 2012 | Issue Sponsor: Flagstar Bank

NEWS FlashesNewsflashes is a feature of the Chamber News that recognizes Chamber members’ new products or services, new or promoted employees and recogni-tion that they have received. E-mail press releases to [email protected]. Deadline: first Friday of each month.

Aquinas College is pleased to announce that Fundraising Specialist & Grand Rapids-native Greg Meyer will serve the College as VP for Institutional Advancement.

ASK welcomed Juan Ruiz and Devin Montague to their team as Technical Consultants.

ASTI Environmental announced it has added Sherry Kirkbride, Environmental Scientist to its Grand Rapids office.

As of October 2012, Axios Incorporated became 100% employee-owned. Terri Sobolewski has joined Office Staffing, a division of Axios Inc., as the Director of Business Development.

Samatha Ruple joined the Baker Holtz as a Tax Administrative Assistant.

Bruce Heys Builders of Ada announce the additions of Christy Oliver and Rhiannon Morse. They will head up Office Operations and assist with Project Management.

The Calvin Alumni Association announced Charles N. Ash Jr., Warner Norcross & Judd, has joined its Board. U.S. News & World Report’s 2013 Best Colleges Guidebook has ranked Calvin College among the top colleges and universities. The Prince Conference Center at Calvin is the recipient of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award for consistently achieving outstanding travelers’ reviews.

Consumers Energy announced that its 70 summer interns working at various CE Facilities in MI helped 14 non-profits by doing community service projects as part of their intern experience.

WCSG, a ministry of Cornerstone University was awarded “Station of the Year” – large market – by Christian Music Broadcasters Assn. this month.

Crossroads Conference Center, 6569 Clay Ave. SW, recently added catering services for weddings, corporate events, parties, picnics, networking event, funerals and showers. Boxed lunches are also available.

Davenport University has hired Peg Luy as

the University’s new Executive Vice President for Advancement. For the third consecutive year, Davenport University has been named a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs.

Dickinson Wright is pleased to announce the addition of Brian S. Fleetham as a Member in the firm’s Grand Rapids office.

Jeffrey Keessen, Registered Representative with Discovery Financial, is the recipient of the Accredited Investment Fiduciary Designation Award.

Doyle & Ogden Insurance Advisors is proud to welcome Jan Osmolinski and Gayle VanderWilp to their Personal Lines Department.

DWA, Hartwick Capital and Pearl Street Partners announced its companies now operate under the name DWA. The web address is www.dwhcorp.com.

Jessica Walters and Katelyn Lokker have joined the team at Edify North.

The Employers Association of W. MI is excited to announce The Exchange (exchangewestmi.com). The Exchange opens up new possibilities for reuse of materials by direct sharing between businesses, municipalities and non-profit organizations. The Exchange is a web-based and primarily ad-hoc system, supported by pollution prevention grant from the MI Dept. of Environmental Quality.

Erhardt Construction is pleased to announce that Aaron Mead has joined the company as Director of Facility Solutions.

Melissa Kinstner, Visual Communications Expert at FastSigns of Grand Rapids, is the recipient of the Silver Sales Award at the 2012 FastSigns Outside Sales Summit.

Fifth Third Bank of W. MI hired Cheryl Kirsten as VP and Senior Wealth Planner.

Foster Swift Collins & Smith attorney Frank Mamat of the Farmington Hills office has been appointed Membership the State Bar of MI Professional Ethics Committee.

Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore

announced the addition of Edward Bueche, Vice President of Finance and Business Operations.

Jon Nunn, Grand Action recently announced the public market under construction south of Van Andel Arena will be named “Downtown Market.”

Dawn Cheikh, Adjunct Professor of French and Arabic at Grand Rapids Community College, was honored with the Teaching by Adjunct Faculty Award at the college’s Adjunct Appreciation Dinner. GRCC also announced that Associate Professor of Mathematics Oscar Neal has been granted a sabbatical for the fall 2012 semester to complete his dissertation in intellectual capital for his doctorate at WMU.

Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women (GROW) announced the addition of Adrienne Asselmeier, Director of Marketing and Communications.

Marcia Warner, Director of the Grand Rapids Public Library, has been named the 2012 Librarian of the Year by the Michigan Library Association.

Grand Rapids OB/GYN (Dr. Stephen Dalm) new office location is 5060 Cascade Rd. SE, 49546.

Grand Rapids Public Schools announced its Zoo School was named among the top 25 Coolest Schools in America by Scholastic Parent & Child Magazine.

Grand Valley State University’s Jeanne Arnold, Vice President for Inclusion & Equity, George Grant, Jr., Dean of the College of Community and Public Service, and H. James Williams, Dean of the Seidman College of Business, were included in the latest edition of Who’s Who in Black Detroit. It marks the first time the list included a Grand Rapids section. GVSU ranked 7th in the Top Public Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report in its annual Best Colleges 2013 publication.

David Lockington will step into a new role as Music Director Laureate at the conclusion of the Grand Rapids Symphony’s 2014-15 Season. Lockington has served the Symphony longer than any other music director in the organization’s history and longer than the typical tenure for other orchestras around the country.

H&S Companies is pleased to announce that their new division, the Brewers Professional Alliance has partnered with Orchesta, one of the top brewery management software

providers in the industry.

Herman Miller, Inc. is pleased to announce that Mindy Yasi Castanon (LGR 2010) has been recognized as a 2012 Alumni Service Award recipient by the Grand Valley State University Alumni Association.

Hooper Printing has added vinyl cutting to their portfolio of services.

Hungerford, Aldrin, Nichols & Carter, PC is pleased to announce Heather Halligan has joined their team as Marketing Specialist.

Interphase Interiors recently installed new furnishings for the Old Federal Building as part of the $31 million renovation, now part of Kendall College of Art & Design of Ferris State University.

IT Resource, Inc. is expanding their cloud-based hosted and disaster recovery by adding a second data center site operating out of the US Signal Managed Data Center.

Blueprinting Company Kal-Blue hired Bill Drafta as an Account Manager and Rachel Drafta as a Marketing Coordinator.

Kids Food Basket announced the addition of Afton DeVos, Development Director, and the promotions of Jane Berkey, Director of Operations, and Christine Lentine, Outreach Director.

Law Weathers is pleased to announce the additions of Mark Hanisch and Stacey George to their Real Estate Practice.

The March of Dimes is proud to announce the selection of Amber Goodell as the Ambassador Mom for this year 2013 Signature Chefs Auction. Amber is the General Manager at Henry A. Fox.

Metro Health Hospital recently announced that Dr. Larry Diaz-Sandoval has been elected to Fellowship in the American College of Physicians, or ACP. Metro Health Hospital has been chosen to receive an Excellence in Patient Care award for exemplary results from the Studer Group®.

Michigan Blood announced the addition of Meredith Gremel as Director of Public Relations and Marketing.

Michigan Radio News Director Vincent Duffy was named Chairman of the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA).

Mutually Human is pleased to announce the addition of two new software developers to their team, Ross Hunter and Jack Slingerland.

Michele McIsaac has joined Porter Hills Retirement Communities & Services as Vice President of Development.

Celebrating its 60th year in W. MI, Price Heneveld® continues its growth over the last year by welcoming, Xiaolei B. Zhang, one of six new intellectual property attorneys to join the expanding team of lawyers.

Progressive AE and Design Plus are pleased to announce their recent merger to create one of W. MI’s largest full-service design firms, with nearly 85 years of experience, more than 150 full-time professionals.

Protravel International of Ada is the recipient of the 2012 Year Over Year Growth and 2012 Top Product Awards by Virtuoso.

Bruce A. Courtade, Rhoades McKee Attorney and Shareholder was recently elected the 78th President of the State Bar of Michigan.

Saint Mary’s Foundation announced its 2012-12 officers and trustees: Chair, Judson M. Lynch; Vice Chair, Blair Sharpe; Treasurer, Rachel Mraz; Secretary, Deb Bailey; At-Large, Joe Schmieder and Latricia Trice; and trustees, Jeffrey Dixon and Robert C. Woodhouse Jr.

Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge is pleased to announce that William H. Franks has joined the firm’s Grand Rapids office. Lisa Young, Marketing & Client Services Director, was recently appointed to the board of the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. Benchmark Plaintiff recently selected Matthew L. Wikander as a “Local Litigation Star” and a “Recommended” firm.

Dr. Stephanie F. Williams has joined Spectrum Health Medical Group as Division Chief, Adult Blood and Marrow Transplant Program. Spectrum Health Foundation announced Dan and Lou Ann Gaydou are recipients of its 2012 Art of Giving Award.

The Salvation Army is pleased to announce that Mark Thomson received the Excellence in Service Award given by The Michigan Association of Substance Abuse Coordinating Agencies during the October annual conference in Detroit.

Trivalent Group has promoted Bob Nally to a vCIO position and Clint Lake to Project Manager. Trivalent Group has welcomed Larry Radtke and Scott Whitman to their group.

Just because you have a little office, doesn’t mean you can’t have a...

Big LittleHoliday Party

This unique alternative to a traditional holiday celebration can beexperienced when you, your team, and a host of other companies

or groups from around town reserve your space to toast theyear’s successes and celebrate the holidays in grand style.

Hosted by the

5700 28th Street SEGrand Rapids, Michigan 49546

December 19, 201211:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Appetizers, Salad & Prime Rib Carving Station.Numerous Hot Stations.

Desserts and Gourmet Coffee Bar

$21.95 per person inclusiveAdvance reservations required

Call to reserve your place at 616-942-3169


Member Seminars, Events & CelebrationsNEW Members

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

4GR8 Catering Caterers/Personal Chefs (616) 235-8685 4gr8food.comLindsey Balcazar - Catering and Events Coordinator

6.25 Paper Studio Gifts/Cards/Collectibles (616) 745-5402 www.625paper.com Abbey Fowler - Owner

AMRA Energy Energy (616) 780-1265 www.amraenergy.com Rich Brown - Account Executive

BackRoomSupplies.com LLC Packaging (616) 443-6163 www.backroomsupplies.com Diana Napieralski - Owner

Baker College, Center for Transportation Technology/Education (616) 879-0009www.baker.edu Michael Royston - Site Coordinator

Brush Studio Art (616) 805-5099 http://www.brushgr.com/ Lisa Jabara - Owner

Creative Studio Promotions Promotional (616) 485-0065 http://creativestudiopromo.com/ Ann Vidro - Owner

El Granjero Mexican Grill Restaurants/Cafes (Loc., Equip., Supplies) (616) 458-5595 www.elgranjerogr.com Paola Gonzalez Catering Coordinator

ETNA Supply Company Plumbing (616) 241-5414www.etnasupply.com Russ Visner - CEO

Ez Optical Savings Plan Healthcare (616) 304-1746 www.ezopticalsavingsplan.com Heather Glass - Program Manager Great Lakes Cleaning, Inc. Janitorial (616) 690-1887 www.greatlakescleaning.com Bill Uebbing - Business Development Manager

Great Lakes Financial Insurance Agency Insurance (616) 301-2599

greatlakesfinancialinsuranceagency.com Molly Murray - Independent Agent

Harbor House Ministries Child/Adult Care (616) 797-9920 www.harborhouseministries.org Hearthside Food Solutions, LLC Food (616) 871-9185 http://www.hearthsidefoods.com Fernando Canales - ECR Manager H2

Innovative Principal Strategies, LLC Collection Services (616) 710-3450 www.innovativeprincipal.com Ginger Zemla - Owner

Jenuine Creations, LLC Photography (616) 693-2141 www.jenuine-creations.com/ Jennifer Praniewicz Kal-Blue Computers/Technology (800) 522-0541 www.kalblue.com Christopher Young Keith den Hollander Agency- Farm Bureau Insurance Insurance (616) 656-3309 www.denhollanderagency.com Keith den Hollander - President

Kitchen 67 Brann’s Cafe Restaurants/Cafes (Loc., Equip., Supplies) (616) 308-0699 www.kitchen67.com Johnny Brann Jr. - Owner

Maru Sushi & Grill Restaurants/Cafes (Loc., Equip., Supplies) (616) 458-1900 www.marurestaurant.comRobert Song - President

MomsBloom, Inc. Organizations & Non-Profits (616) 828-1021 www.momsbloom.org Sara Binkley-Tow - Executive Director

Mullen Coins, LLC Appraisers (616) 272-4402 www.mullencoins.com Katherine Mullen - Co-Owner

New Image Protective Services Security (616) 915-5915 http://npsprotective.com/index.html Steve Estes Organicycle Waste Management/Recycling (616) 855-3377

13The Chamber NewsNovember 2012 | Issue Sponsor: Flagstar Bankwww.grandrapids.org

www.organicycle.org Dan Tietema - President

Robert Half Management Resources Accounting (616) 774-3286 www.roberthalfmr.com Anne Meehan - Division Director

RunaboutsTransportation (616) 644-7202 www.runaboutsgr.com Scully Statewide Moving Inc. Moving/Delivery (616) 735-2000 www.scullystatewidemoving.com/ Pat Scully - Owner

Special Olympics Michigan Organizations & Non-Profits (616) 583-1202 www.somi.org James Taylor - Director of Development

Steadfast Engineered Products Machine Shops/Machining/Machinery (616) 846-4747 Ext:11 www.steadfastep.com/ Jay Cutie - Owner

The Salvation Army Kroc Center Organizations & Non-Profits (616) 588-7200 www.grkroccenter.org Stephanie Denton - Marketing, Member-ship & PR Director

ThyssenKrupp Elevator Corporation Elevator (616) 942-4710 www.thyssenkruppelevator.com Todd Neckers, LLC Attorneys (616) 422-5082 www.neckerslaw.com Todd Neckers - Attorney

Volunteer Energy Energy (616) 466-4839 www.vesavings.com Dan Larson - Owner

Web Traffic Partners, Inc. Website (800) 510-7149 www.webtrafficpartners.com Chris Thomas - Founder & CEO

Your Shower Door Retail (616) 940-0900 www.yourshowerdoor.com David Konydyk - General Manager

NovemberMember Ribbon Cutting Celebrations6 | Creative Studio Promotions - 25 Jefferson SESuite 102, 9:30 a.m. 616.485.0065

7 | Paychex - 625 Kenmoor Ave. SE, 4:30 p.m. 616.458.5595

7 & 8 | Speak Up & Be Effective™ - Advanced Communicate with impact. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7058 for details.

27 | Speak Up & Be Effective™ - In this program, you will learn how to think on your feet, project more confidence, manage your nerves, and get your points across. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7058 for details.

DecemberMember Ribbon Cutting Celebrations14 | Mercantile Bank - 310 Leonard St. NW, 10:00 a.m. 616.406.3000

5 & 6 | Speak Up & Be Effective™ - Advanced Communicate with impact. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7058 for details.

27 | Speak Up & Be Effective™ - In this program, you will learn how to think on your feet, project more confidence, manage your nerves, and get your points across. Call Varnum Consulting at 616.336.7058 for details.

Inspire yourself and catch the flame to inspire and lead others at the Chamber’s 125th annual meeting January 22, 2013! The event will feature a leadership workshop and keynote address by leadership ex-pert, coach and author Dr. Lance Secretan. Secretan is the former CEO of a Fortune 100 company, a university professor, an award-winning colum-nist, and author of 15 books about leadership emphasizing the connec-tions between high performance and the heart, mind and soul. He espouses the CASTLE principles of leadership—Courage, Authenticity, Service, Truthfulness, Love and Ef-fectiveness in his most recent book, The Spark, the Flame, and the Torch:

Inspire Self. Inspire Others. Inspire the World. Secretan describes himself as a man with a dream: to change the world by creating inspiring organizations. He has dedicated his life to transforming companies, changing the lives of the people who work in them, and revolu-tionizing the way leaders lead. The Chamber is thrilled to have Secretan joining our 125th Annual Meet-ing and presenting a special leadership seminar beforehand. In this dynamic, interactive pre-meeting session, Secretan will share leadership theories and lessons from his most recent book. Participants will be guided through exer-cises and processes designed to engage and invigorate conversations. This will be a challenging and very practical workshop aimed at learning new ideas, leading to a greater awareness of self, others and the role of inspiration and leadership in changing ourselves, those around us, and the world. Individuals and organizations have experienced remarkable transforma-tions through Secretan’s unique mentoring, wisdom and approach. Make sure you and your business are among them! Join us at Devos Place on January 22, 2013! Visit www.grandrapids.org/annual-meeting for more information.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for this high-profile event and are designed to help you build and strengthen relationships with other promi-nent members of your community. Contact Leslee Fritz at [email protected] or 616.771.0357 for sponsorship details.

Spark Your Inspiration & Leadership at the Chamber’s 125th Annual Meeting


RENEWING MembersThank you to the following companies that renewed their memberships in September. We are glad to have you and your employees as members!

SUSTAINABILITY SpotlightBy Norman Christopher, Executive Director, Sustainable Community Development at Grand Valley State University

What Does Sustainability Really Mean?Ferris State Univ.-GR/Kendall College-Art & DesignPerfected Grave Vault Co.Crowne Plaza-Grand RapidsSuperior Business Solutions

60+ Years of Membership

Northwestern Mutual Financial NetworkFirst Insurance Enterprises, Inc.Norris, Perne’ & French, L.L.P.Dan Vos Construction Co. Inc.Dickinson Press Inc.Allegra Marketing . Print . MailBerends Hendricks Stuit Insurance Agency Inc.Blue Care Network of MichiganHHS, Health OptionsPlante Moran, PLLCWGVU AM/WGVU FM/WGVK TV/WGVU TVCompaticoKeller Ford-KIA20+ Years of Membership

Forest View HospitalLake Michigan Insurance AgencyMasselink Brothers Trucking Service, Inc.Schenk, Boncher & RypmaThe Campbell GroupWord Investments, Inc.Youngblood Automation, LLCAlgoma Products, Inc.CU*AnswersDoyle & Ogden, Insurance AdvisorsProfessional Consulting and Accounting Group, Inc.Professional Courier ServiceHoliday Inn DowntownLaurie A. Russell, CPAAssociated Insurance DesignFlying Dutchman FlagsZondervan CorporationMercantile Service Inc.Universal Wall Systems, Inc.


AmerikamHS Die & Engineering Inc.Noah’s Pet Cemetery & CrematoryThe Imagination Factory IncWilliams GroupIndependent Bank - East BeltlineThe Breton GroupWater WizardCelerdyne Engineering llcHUB International - MidwestMatthysse, Kuiper, DeGraaf Funeral DirectorsNonlinear Technology Services, Inc.West Michigan Obstetricians & Gynecologists PCAction Plumbing & MechanicalArchitectural ConceptsBurgess Painting LLCColeman+HughesCSM GroupDouglas J Aveda InstituteGazelle SportsThe Design Forum Inc.WorksightedAnchorage Commercial RealtyMotan, Inc.Parks TitleSpecialty Tool & Mold, Inc.Timber Ridge Apartment Community

E. L. Ladd & Co., Inc.


The Sharpe Collection BMW-Land Rover-Jaguar-MINICascade Engineering, Inc.CusterHansen-Balk Steel Treating Co.Pine Rest Christian Mental Health ServicesPwCWoodland Mall



Altus Industries, Inc.ClearStream TitleForest Hills Financial, Inc.GPC ComputersKaptein, Dykstra & Company, P.C.Keil Lasik Vision CenterLocus DevelopmentRemmelts MarketingT & C Foods, Inc.West Michigan Portable Moving and Storage (PODS)Jim Roberts Enterprises LLCLaser Cartridges PlusMichigan Legislative ConsultantsPleune Service CompanyTransition & Advocacy Services, LLCAlles LawAmerican AutocoatCityFlats Hotel - Grand RapidsGrand Rapids Trolley Co., LLCThe Salvation ArmyUtility TelecomWireless Zone

Sustainability can mean many things to many people, so let’s take a look at the roots of sustainability.

1. Going back seven generations ago, there was a Native American proverb that stated: “We do not inherit the earth from our fathers; we borrow it from our children.” This proverb begins to beg the question of what are we really passing on to the next generation including our children and grandchildren?

2. In 1989, The United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of today without compromis-ing future generations and their ability to meet their own needs.”

3. Several important principles can be gleaned from these definitions including living within one’s means and a concern for the future.

4. John Elkington published a book, Cannibals with Forks, in 1999 that added a new and most important dimension of sustainabil-ity known as the “triple bottom line.” Elkington’s premise was that sustainability not only impacted the financial bottom line, but it also impacted both environmental and social dimensions that could be measured as well.

5. Beginning in the new millennium and the decade that has followed, many companies have become engaged in the green movement and green economy that has focused on products and services that are environmentally friendly and restorative in nature.

6. Sustainability has also gained momentum in the area of corporate social responsibility and corporate citizenship—often being driven in the marketplace by company shareholders.

So what does sustainability really mean? It means:

• being a good steward of the resources we have and use caringly for future generations

• addressing social, environmental, and economic im-pact for our activities

• being responsible and accountable for the actions we take

In essence, sustainability is a guide or toolbox of applied best practices that enables one to make better decisions to-day as well as for the future.

®

Shop 100 stores including Macy’s, jcpenney, Sears, Apple, The North Face, Pottery Barn, Barnes & Noble Booksellers and The Cafés in the Woods Food Court. Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm • Sunday Noon-6pm 28th Street and the East Beltline, West of I-96 616.949.0012 • shopwoodlandmall.com

PREIT MALLS

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Gift Cards are available at Woodland Mall’s Customer Service. Redeemable anywhere

American Express® Cards are accepted in the United States. No fees after purchase.

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The American Express Gift Card may be used at U.S. merchants that accept American Express® Cards. Funds do not expire. No ATM cash withdrawal.

Additional limitations apply. See Cardholder Agreement for complete terms and conditions. Card cannot be redeemed for cash,

except where required by law. The American Express Gift Card is issued by American Express Prepaid Card Management Corporation.

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Enhance Your Chamber Directory Web Listing!

Make your business stand out to potential

customers and increase the number of visitors to your website by

enhancing your grandrapids.org business directory web listing. Enhancement

includes your color logo and 25-word business description

Take advantage of this new member benefit for only $100 per membership year

or $50 when membershiprenewal is less than six months away!

Contact Joni Johnson at [email protected] or 616.771.0340

to enhance your listing today or for more info.


Lakewood Wastewater AuthorityThum Insurance Agency, LLCAnesthesia Professional Services, P.C.Bachelder Master GunmakersHughes Management, LCSutton Club ApartmentsThe Stone ZoneColliers InternationalSelect BankCascades Enviropac HPMH & H Metal Source International, Inc.Kforce Professional StaffingKent Communications, Inc.B & R Sales and LeasingClearpoint Consulting, LLCGun Lake Community ChurchPaychex, Inc.Pinnacle Construction GroupCovenant Village of the Great LakesCreative Technologies AcademyEdward JonesBroadmoor Products Inc.Eagle View Software, Inc.

One Year of MembershipAmerican Laser SkincareChristian Brothers AutomotiveXtend Inc. Curo RX LLCDecor & YouLaw Offices of Margaret Webb, PLCMark Creative Services, LLCNational Fertility Support CenterP.F. Chang’sSugar Free Specialties, LLCBeckwith Family Dental Care

Stay up to date on the latest news.

Follow us @GRACC

New Mobile App Features Member ListingsThe Chamber’s launching a new mobile app to help in-crease your business’ visibility! Anyone will be able to

download the free app that will put Chamber business listings in their pocket!

App users will have the ability to:• Search your business• Find your business instantly with geo-location and map ping technology• Receive your special offers and coupons

Standard listing is free for all members with sponsorship opportunities available to enhance your listing! To secure a limited sponsorship opportunity, visit www.grandrapids.org/mobileapp or contact our mo-bile app partner, Erick Juarez of Chamber2Go at [email protected] for more information.

111 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids, MI 49503

PERIODICAL POSTAGE

PAID GRAND RAPIDS, MI

Last month, more than 100 people participated in the lively, interactive and entertaining networking event, What’s New, What’s Now, What’s Wow! Destination Chamber, designed to introduce prospective Chamber members to the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber event far exceeded my expectations!” said Brenda Kimball of Financial Advisory Corporation, who recently joined the Chamber, thanked Chamber staff for such a warm, positive first-time event experience. “I met many friendly and supportive people who are happy to connect again for the purpose of sharing information about our different businesses. Everyone I met was very approachable and welcoming!” Those comments were echoed repeatedly through the night. “I believe I have connected with an organization that is going to help me have a good foundation now at the beginning stages of my business, and later as my business grows and matures,” said new member Valencia Agnew, a psychologist with Adolescent & Family Behavioral Health Services. “Being a part of the Chamber is like having my own team of specialists that provide me with information I need regarding my community, regarding political issues, and about business in general.” Special thanks to event sponsor Comcast for making this successful new member program possible. The event provided potential Chamber members the chance to meet board, staff, and current members and was a great opportunity for those not yet engaged with our chamber to learn about all that we do. Many new members signed on during the evening, and more are anticipated as the Membership Team follows up with guests. As passionate Chamber member and Paychex sales consultant Ashley Barnes noted so well: “I have found the Chamber to be such a wonderful vehicle for me to connect to the community with. Since becoming active in the Chamber, I have gone from knowing no one to knowing someone everywhere I go.” Contact Mark Allen at [email protected] or 616.771.0348 to find out how you can become more involved in the Chamber

Prospective Members Discover What’s New, What’s Now, What’s Wow!

Event Underwriter:

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