Home January-February 2013

January-February 2013

  • Dickinson Wright Joins Phoenix-based Law Firm

    DETROIT— Dickinson Wright PLLC, with offices in Michigan, Arizona, Nevada, Ohio, Tennessee, Washington, D.C., and Toronto, Ontario has joined law practices with Mariscal, Weeks, McIntyre & Friedlander, P.A., based in Phoenix. In Arizona the combined firm will operate under the name Dickinson Wright/Mariscal Weeks. The combination was effective on Tuesday. “The Arizona and Southwestern U.S. […]

  • Talmer Bancorp Completes Acquisition of First Place Bank

    TROY — Talmer Bancorp Inc. today announced that it has completed its previously announced purchase of Warren, Ohio-based First Place Bank from First Place Financial Corp. Talmer’s total investment of more than $200 million  was used to purchase First Place and to recapitalize First Place in order to satisfy regulatory capital requirements and strengthen First […]

  • Polk: New Vehicle Registrations May Reach 15.3 Million

    SOUTHFIELD — New light vehicle registrations in the U.S. in 2013 are expected to rise 6.6 percent over 2012 levels to 15.3 million vehicles, according to Polk, a leading global automotive market intelligence firm.  At the same time, Polk analysts forecast North American production volumes to increase to the 15.9 million unit range (an anticipated […]

  • Crestmark Transactions Hit $13M in Final Weeks of 2012

    TROY — During the last few weeks of December a total of $12.85 million in financial solutions was secured for 11 new Crestmark clients. They were: • On December 18 a $4 million Ledgered Line of Credit facility was provided to a Texas company that provides various oilfield services. Funding will be used for amortization […]

  • Mackinac Financial Declares First Dividend Since '04

    MANISTIQUE — Mackinac Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: MFNC), the bank holding company for mBank, today announced that on Dec. 18, 2012, its board of directors declared a cash dividend of $.04 per common share, payable January 7 to shareholders of record as of December 31, 2012. This is the first dividend declared by the corporation since […]

  • Big Jump in Home Construction Expected in 2013

    LANSING — The Home Builders Association of Michigan is forecasting that single-family home construction in 2013 will increase by 39 percent over 2012 levels. The association attributes the positive forecast to a stronger Michigan economy and state legislation aimed at stimulating the housing industry. “With record low new home production for the past several years, […]

  • New Search Engine Helps Support Local Businesses

    ROYAL OAK — A new search engine —  BuyMichLocal.com —  is hoping to make it easier than ever to support local businesses. “We bring top sites like Yelp, GroupOn, Angie’s List, and Survey Monkey all under one roof, and make it affordable for businesses – making them more competitive in the local market,” said Michael […]

  • Townsend Hotel Names New Executive Chef

    BIRMINGHAM — The Townsend Hotel, a AAA 4-Diamond luxury property known for its exceptional service and amenities, today announced the recent appointment of Drew Sayes as its new executive chef. The announcement was made by The Townsend’s Managing Director Steven Kalczynski. As the hotel’s executive chef, Sayes is responsible for creation and execution of the […]

  • Esperion Therapeutics Names New President, CEO

    PLYMOUTH — Esperion Therapeutics, the leading developer of small molecule therapies for the treatment of cardiometabolic disorders, today announced that Tim Mayleben has been named president and CEO of the company.  Roger Newton, Ph.D., FAHA, who is the founder of Esperion and has been serving as its president and CEO, will become executive chairman and […]

  • Bosch Showcases Technology at 2013 International CES

    FARMINGTON HILLS —  For more than 125 years, Bosch has been committed to providing trusted products that enhance quality of life. At the 2013 International CES in Las Vegas next week, 10 divisions representing Bosch’s four business sectors – Automotive Technology, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology – will come together to […]

  • Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke to Visit U-M

    ANN ARBOR — Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke will join Ford School Dean Susan Collins on Jan. 14  for a conversation on monetary policy, recovery from the global financial crisis and long-term challenges facing the U.S. economy. Bernanke also will take questions from the audience and from Twitter. Join the conversation on Twitter: #fordschoolbernanke. Bernanke […]

  • Seven Michigan Listings Added to National Register of Historic Places

    LANSING — The State Historic Preservation Office, Michigan State Housing Development Authority, announced the addition of seven properties and historic districts to the National Register of Historic Places. Three individual properties and four historic districts from Dickinson to Jackson counties were added to the nation’s list of historic structures and archaeological sites worthy of preservation. […]

  • Ford Sells Portion of Former Wixom Assembly Plant

    DEARBORN — Ford Motor Co. has sold 239 acres of the former Wixom Assembly Plant to Trident Barrow Management LLC, a unit of Barrow Development. “We’re very pleased with the sale of the property and look forward to watching new development in the Wixom area,” said Donna Inch, Ford Land chairman and CEO. “Both the […]

  • Henry Ford Hospital Participates in National Stem Cell Research Study

    DETROIT — Physicians at Henry Ford Hospital are the first in Michigan in a new national research study to investigate treating a recent heart attack with a patient’s own stem cells to preserve heart muscle function. “Stem cell therapy offers new potential approaches in the treatment of acute heart attack patients to prevent further damage […]

  • Chrysler Group Launches Dealer-Activated Navigation System

    AUBURN HILLS — The growing importance of navigation systems is not lost on Chrysler Group. Accordingly, the company has unleashed the power of its Uconnect system to accommodate customers seeking a change in direction. In an industry-first, Chrysler Group dealers can activate navigation functions in vehicles equipped with certain Uconnect systems. Uconnect offers navigation capability, […]

  • Sentio Receives Patent Approvals for Core Technology

    SOUTHFIELD — Sentio today announced that the U.S. Patent Office has approved two of its recent submissions. These cover the core technology behind the company’s family of products that protect nerves from injury during surgery. The approval of the first patent, “Neural Event Detection,” covers the company’s system for detecting and mapping nerves. The second […]

  • Marsh & McLennan Agency Acquires McGraw Wentworth

    TROY — Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC, a subsidiary of Marsh Inc., today announced that it has acquired McGraw Wentworth Inc., an employee group benefits consulting and brokerage firm based in Troy, Michigan. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 1997 by Thomas P. McGraw and William D. Wentworth, McGraw Wentworth has annual […]

  • United Shore Financial Services Hires New President

    BIRMINGHAM — Mat Ishbia has been named president of United Shore Financial Services LLC, one of the nation’s leading independent mortgage lenders. Ishbia, 32, had previously served as president of United Wholesale Mortgage, United Shore’s largest division and the fastest-growing wholesale mortgage lender in America. “This promotion recognizes the tremendous contribution Mat has made to the […]

  • ITC Holdings Corp. Hires New Executive

    NOVI — ITC Holdings Corp. today announced that Ron Hinsley has joined the company as vice president, information technology and chief information officer. Hinsley will lead IT activities and support all corporate applications including the Transmission Management System and Enterprise Resource Planning for ITC. “Ron Hinsley brings more than 20 years of information systems experience […]

  • Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson's 2013 Birthday Party

    More than 500 guests attended L. Brooks Patterson’s Birthday Party on Jan. 5 at the Royal Park Hotel in downtown Rochester. The black-tie event, which offered a VIP reception, included the unveiling of a bronze bust of Patterson created by artist Don Tocco. Photographs by Patrick Gloria.

  • Telemus Capital Announces 2013 Restructuring

    SOUTHFIELD — Telemus Capital Partners, an independent advisory firm specializing in wealth management services for high net worth individuals, today announced plans for an organizational restructuring, effective January 1, 2013.  Due to their success and growing size, Telemus will be spinning off its two proprietary investment funds, the Telemus Income & Principal Preservation Fund and […]

  • Visteon Supplies Instrument Cluster for Porsche

    VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP — Visteon Corp., a leading global automotive supplier, partnered with Porsche AG to develop a new advanced instrument cluster for the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo e-hybrid concept, launched at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Integrating multiple thin film transistor displays with touch-activated functions, Visteon developed and delivered the instrument cluster in 10 […]

  • DenteMax Selects Brogan & Partners

    BIRMINGHAM — Brogan & Partners, one of the leading advertising and marketing agencies in Michigan, announced the addition of DenteMax to its group of health care clients. The announcement was made today by Ellyn Davidson, managing partner for Brogan & Partners. Headquartered in Southfield, DenteMax is the nation’s largest leasable dental network with more than […]

  • The College for Creative Studies 31st Annual Art of Wine Fundraiser

    The College for Creative Studies held its 31st annual Art of Wine fundraiser dinner on Oct. 20 at the GM Tech Center in Warren. The black-tie event, which drew more than 500 people, raised $1.5 million for student scholarships and art classes for at-risk youth in Detroit. Photographs by Nick Martines.

  • Rugiero Promise Foundation Third Annual Casino Royale

    The Rugiero Promise Foundation held its third annual Casino Royale fundraiser on Nov. 3 at the Italian American Club in Livonia. To date, the foundation has raised $125,000 for the Antonio Rugiero Diabetes Research Fund and the University of Michigan Brehm Center for Diabetes Research in Ann Arbor. Photographs by Nick Martines.

  • Agree Realty Appoints New Chief Executive Officer

    FARMINGTON HILLS — Agree Realty Corp. (NYSE: ADC) today announced the appointment of Joey Agree as chief executive officer. In addition, Agree will continue to serve as the company’s president and as a member of the company’s board of directors. “We are extremely pleased to name Joey Agree as our chief executive officer of the […]

  • New Dodge Dart GT Model to Debut at Auto Show

    AUBURN HILLS — The Dodge brand dug deep into its nearly 100-year history to name its all-new compact car, the 2013 Dodge Dart, and is again drawing on the storied history for the newest Dodge Dart model. The sporty Dart GT model originally made its debut in 1963 and offered drivers enhanced performance and style, […]

  • International Bancard Names New Chief Financial Officer

    CLAWSON — International Bancard, a processing solutions and merchant services company, announced today that Joseph Valentic has been named its chief financial officer.  In this role, Valentic will drive financial and strategic management for the company, including oversight of corporate finance, capital planning, acquisitions and strategic planning. Additionally, he will leverage his bank and credit […]

  • Chase Plastics Names New Vice President of Sales

    CLARKSTON — Chase Plastics, a North American distributor of specialty, engineering and commodity thermoplastics, announced today that it has appointed Alan Arduini to the newly created position of vice president, sales, effective immediately. Arduini will spearhead the company’s efforts to double revenue by 2020 and increase the number of its sellers and territories. “As our sales […]

  • Jeep Sets All-time Annual Sales Record in 2012

    AUBURN HILLS — The Jeep brand recorded global sales of 701,626 units in 2012, setting a new, all-time high – bettering the brand’s previous annual high of 675,494 units sold in 1999. Jeep vehicle sales increased 19 percent globally in 2012 versus 2011, and 13 percent in the United States (474,131 units). “The Jeep brand […]

  • J.P. Morgan Appoints Private Bank Market Manager

    BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Morgan has announced that Reuben Rashty has been appointed head of J.P.Morgan’s Private Banking business in Michigan. In this role, he will lead J.P. Morgan’s team in delivering the firm’s investment, wealth advisory, deposit, credit and philanthropic services to high and ultra-high-net worth clients in Michigan via offices in Bloomfield Hills, Ann […]

  • Honigman Elects Four New Partners

    DETROIT — Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP  has elected four new partners in the firm. The new partners are: Daniel N. Adams practices in the Litigation Department and is located in the firm’s Detroit office. He represents clients in a wide variety of commercial and bankruptcy-related disputes in state and federal courts in issues […]

  • General Dynamics Awarded $133M for Abrams Tank Production

    STERLING HEIGHTS — General Dynamics Land Systems has been awarded $132.7 million for the procurement and production of 69 Saudi M1A2 (M1A2S) Abrams tanks for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This work is part of a plan by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to upgrade its fleet of tanks. The Foreign Military Sales contract was […]

  • Quicken Loans Records $70B In Loans

    DETROIT — Detroit-based Quicken Loans Inc. announced it closed more than $70 billion in home loan volume in 2012, a 133 percent increase over the $30 billion previous record set in 2011. In addition, Quicken Loans became the third largest retail lender in America, as well as solidifying its position as the largest online lender […]

  • MRA Announces New Leadership

    MADISON HEIGHTS — After 25 years, Michigan-based MRA experiential tours and equipment has a changed ownership. Under the new leadership of former executive vice president and now President and CEO Tony Amato, MRA has begun to enact plans to broaden operations as they relate to mobile marketing to better serve clients and provide a greater […]

  • GM to Open IT Innovation Center in Georgia

    ROSWELL — General Motors will hire approximately 1,000 high-tech workers to staff a new Information Technology Innovation Center near Atlanta, Georgia. The automaker needs software developers, project managers, database experts, business analysts and other IT professionals for the third of four centers in the United States. “Locating this center in Atlanta makes good business sense,” […]

  • Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione’s Detroit Office Now Open

    DETROIT — Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, announces the new opening of their Detroit office. The Detroit office is located in the same building as the new Elijah J. McCoy United States Patent and Trademark Office. The Detroit location provides an on-site location for Brinks and its domestic and international clients to participate in on-site […]

  • Crestmark Promotes Seven Employees

    TROY —  In an effort to continue to strengthen Crestmark’s presence while rewarding employees for the instrumental roles they have played in the company’s development, Crestmark has recently promoted seven employees.  “Crestmark is proud of each of these individuals who have helped us expand and continue our support of businesses in need of working capital. […]

  • Guardian Guard Services Acquires RGIS Security

    SOUTHFIELD — Guardian Guard Services of Michigan announced the acquisition of Midwest RSIG Security, a Southfield-based security guard provider. The acquisition was completed earlier this week and Guardian will take over the guard accounts at the end of the month. The majority of the 200 security officers employed by RSIG will continue with Guardian in […]

  • New HUD Program Looks to Save Michigan's Affordable Housing

    DETROIT – To stem the loss of critically needed public and other forms of subsidized housing due to the severe backlog of capital needs, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today officially launched its Rental Assistance Demonstration, the Obama Administration’s strategy to preserve tens of thousands of public and HUD-assisted housing units. […]

  • New Senior Counsel Joins Dykema in Detroit

    DETROIT — Dykema announces that Monica B. Wilkinson has joined the firm as Senior Counsel in the Health Care Practice Group, resident in the Detroit office. Prior to Dykema, Wilkinson was senior vice president, assistant general counsel and assistant secretary at the Detroit Medical Center, a multi-hospital academic medical center Southeast Michigan. In that capacity, […]

  • Walsh College Opens New Finance Lab

    TROY — Walsh College president and CEO Stephanie Bergeron, along with students, faculty, employers and community leaders, gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the college’s highly sophisticated, interactive finance lab at the Walsh College Troy Campus. The new 1,400 square-foot, glass encased finance lab will provide students with a hands-on environment to examine the […]

  • Four Michigan Companies Receive Microloan Fund Program Awards

    ANN ARBOR — Four Michigan companies have received a combined total of more than $156,000 through the Michigan Microloan Fund Program, bringing the total amount loaned through the Fund to more than $3.2 million. The companies received the funding to support commercialization of their core products. “Funding through the Michigan Microloan Fund Program provides critical […]

  • Ford to Hire 2,200 Salaried Workers in 2013

    DEARBORN — Ford Motor Company plans to hire 2,200 salaried workers in the U.S. this year – the largest increase in new salaried workers in more than a decade – to support the continued aggressive pace of new Ford product introductions. The hiring is in addition to the more than 8,100 combined hourly and salaried […]

  • Best Homes Title Agency Expands Statewide Services

    FARMINGTON HILLS — Best Homes Title Agency, a Farmington Hills based agency providing comprehensive title insurance, title examination and closing services throughout Michigan, today announced the expansion of its statewide presence with the acquisition of Grand Rapids-based The Closing Office Title Agency. The acquisition announcement was made by Best Homes Title president and co-founder Neil […]

  • DNR Fisheries Division Produces Five-Year Strategic Plan

    DETROIT — The Department of Natural Resources’ Fisheries Division has released its draft five-year strategic plan, which will guide its future management activities for 2013-2017. “Charting the Course: Fisheries Division’s Framework for Managing Aquatic Resources” can be found online at www.michigan.gov/fishing. The DNR encourages readers to share input on the draft plan’s proposed strategies for […]

  • Ted Gatzaros, August 10, 1944 – January 10, 2013

    The death on January 10, 2013 of the irreplaceable, irrepressible, passionate business leader and champion of Detroit, Ted Gatzaros will be mourned by his devoted family and many friends. From his arrival at 17 from Greece, he demonstrated remarkable qualities of initiative and sustained hard work that, together with his partner, the love of his […]

  • Hob Nobble 2012

    The Parade Co. held its annual Hob Nobble Gobble on Nov. 16 at Ford Field in Detroit as a prelude to America’s Thanksgiving Parade. Close to 2,000 people attended the black-tie fundraiser, which included a strolling gourmet dinner, carnival rides, prizes, and live entertainment. Photographs by Nick Martines.

  • Suburban FIAT of Ann Arbor Completed in Record Time

    ANN ARBOR — The nation’s newest FIAT Studio, Suburban FIAT of Ann Arbor, is open for business. Land preparation for where the 3,400 sq. ft. facility was built began October 1, 2012 with the demolition of an existing building on the site. The dealership was completed and an occupancy permit was issued by the city of Ann Arbor on December […]

  • DBusiness Magazine’s Top Lawyer Party 2013 Video

    The Top Lawyers named on DBusiness magazine’s 2013 list were honored at a cocktail reception at Tre Monti Ristorante on Monday, January 7th.

  • Wright and Filippis Acquires Controlling Share in Carolina O&P

    ROCHESTER HILLS — A.J. Filippis, president and CEO of Wright & Filippis, today announced that the company has acquired a controlling share in Carolina Orthotics & Prosthetics of North Charleston, S.C. Founded in 1944, Wright & Filippis is a Michigan-based healthcare company specializing in prosthetics, orthotics, respiratory care services, and home medical equipment and supplies. […]

  • Detroit Aglow 2012

    The Detroit Downtown Partnership hosted more than 600 people at its annual Detroit Aglow on Nov. 19 at the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. The evening included a strolling cocktail reception, a traditional turkey dinner, and live entertainment. Photographs by Nick Martines.

  • New VP of Human Resources Joins MotorCity Casino Hotel

    DETROIT — Deborah Moffatt recently joined MotorCity Casino Hotel as the new vice president of Human Resources. In her new role, Moffatt will be responsible for all aspects of HR management including strategic planning and labor relations initiatives on behalf of the company. Prior to joining MotorCity Casino Hotel, Moffatt served as the vice president […]

  • National CPA Association Names New Chairman

    TROY — Jeffrey J. Groen, managing partner of the Troy-based firm of Groen, Kluka and Co., was elected chairman-elect of the North America Board of Directors of CPA Associates International Inc. an association of accounting firms. “I am delighted to offer my services to CPA Associates International, of which our firm has been a member […]

  • Jeep Introduces the 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT

    AUBURN HILLS — Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT owners have come to expect – and appreciate – a vehicle that is powerful and refined, luxurious and functional, muscular and stylish. For 2014, Grand Cherokee SRT checks all of those boxes while also delivering unexpected delights. Enhancements for the 2014 model year include an all-new, fully electronic […]

  • Detroit Historical Society Holds Grand Re-opening

    The Detroit Historical Society held a grand re-opening celebration on Nov. 17 for the Detroit Historical Museum. The event, part of the Society’s $20.1-million Past Forward Campaign, funded new and expanded exhibits at the museum, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and the Detroit Historical Society Collection. Photographs by Patrick Gloria.

  • Market Strategies International Names New COO

    LIVONIA — Market Strategies International announced today that Kevin Orians joined the research consultancy as its chief operating officer. Orians is responsible for the overall effectiveness of the company’s research services, quality, analytics and research management functions. He reports to George Wilkerson, president. Orians joins Market Strategies from Kantar Operations, where he served as executive vice president for North America. […]

  • Attorneys Title Agency Forms Ohio-based Talon Title Agency

    FARMINGTON HILLS — Farmington Hills-based Attorneys Title Agency, a full-service title company providing comprehensive services throughout the state of Michigan, announced today that it has formed a new affiliate, Ohio-based Talon Title Agency, LLC. Talon Title Agency has acquired the assets of its branch in Columbus, Ohio. The transaction closed on December 31, 2012. ATA […]

  • EverLast Recognized for Contributions to Jackson Community

    JACKSON — For 75 years the Jackson Area Manufacturer’s Association has held an Annual Meeting to discuss key manufacturing issues while recognizing students, educators, and manufacturers in the Jackson community for outstanding achievement. This year the JAMA held their 76th Annual Meeting on January 7th, 2013 and recognized EverLast Lighting with a prestigious award. “We’re proud of Jackson, and how […]

  • ON GO Energy Names New Leadership in Sales

    BIRMINGHAM — ON GO Energy today announced that Ben Benjamin has joined the company as director of sales while Eugene Tennison will also sign on as the company’s national sales manager. The announcements were made by Derrick George, founder and CEO of ON GO Energy. As director of sales, Benjamin will seek to create greater […]

  • Crestmark Secures Over $4.5M for New Clients in January

    tTROY — A total of $4.55 million in financial solutions were secured for five new Crestmark clients during the first two weeks of January. tOn Jan. 4, a $350,000 accounts receivable ledgered line of credit facility was provided for a distributor of baby products. The Florida-based company distributes to large retail chain stores. tA $2.5 […]

  • North American International Auto Show 2013

    The 2013 North American International Auto show at Detroit’s Cobo Center runs Jan. 19-27. During media week, there were 50 car and truck reveals. Photographs by Patrick Gloria.

  • Fraud Expert Earns Certification

    SOUTHFIELD – Mark St. Peter, a computer forensics expert and managing director of Southfield-based Computing Source, has earned the internationally recognized Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. The CFE certification is administered by the ACFE, the world’s largest anti-fraud organization and premier provider of anti-fraud training and education, comprised […]

  • Report: Light Vehicle Assembly to Exceed 83 Million Units

    DETROIT— PwC’s automotive analyst group, Autofacts, today announced that it expects 2013 global light vehicle assembly will exceed 83 million units, an increase of 5.1 percent from 2012’s total.  Autofacts expects the global market to remain positive overall, while the European Union and Japan will continue to be areas of concern. Megatrends driving the global […]

  • Forest Dunes To Open New Lake AuSable Lodge This Spring

    ROSCOMMON — Forest Dunes Golf Club, a nationally acclaimed Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course in northern Michigan, will open the Lake AuSable Lodge this spring. The addition of this new facility will make it one of the “must experience” golf destinations in mid-America. Construction on the 8,500 square foot luxury lodge began in the fall and […]

  • Attorney Richard A. Walker Joins 1-800-LAW-FIRM

    SOUTHFIELD — Attorney Richard A. Walker joins 1-800-LAW-FIRM as Chief Marketing Officer and Business Law Attorney. Walker, who received his undergraduate degree from Edinboro University and his MBA from Wayne State University, is a graduate of the Michigan State University College of Law. Walker has also done considerable work with the NBA and NFL. Walker […]

  • Beringea Invests In Abe's Market

    FARMINGTON HILLS — Beringea has invested in Abe’s Market, the online destination for ordering natural and organic products. The investment was part of Abe’s $5 million financing round, led by Carmel Ventures with existing investors Index Ventures and Accel Partners, and new investor OurCrowd. Abe’s Market is the 28th new investment made by the InvestMichigan! […]

  • Snyder Signs Executive Order Establishing DIFS

    LANSING — Rick Snyder has signed an executive order establishing the Department of Insurance and Financial Services to provide a focal point of consumer protection, enable efficient and effective regulation, and position the insurance and financial services sector for economic growth. The insurance and financial services fields are rapidly changing, health insurance is becoming more […]

  • Auto-Related Research Benefits NAIAS Vehicles

    LANSING — Around $300 million spent on auto-related research projects over a five-year period by the three top research universities that make up Michigan’s University Research Corridor, has benefited the new vechicles at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. Many of the new vechiles run better, have been proven safer, or get better mileage. […]

  • Ken Marblestone Appointed Michigan President of Charter One

    SOUTHFIELD — RBS Citizens Financial Group today named Ken Marblestone as president, Charter One and RBS Citizens, Michigan. Marblestone, a Detroit native, also will remain as president of Charter One and RBS Citizens, Ohio. Marblestone, a member of the RBS Executive Leadership Group, the company’s senior leadership team, succeeds Scott Swanson, who is resigning to […]

  • 12% Growth in 2012 North American Light Vehicle Sales

    DETROIT — The North American automotive market in 2012 has been the “bright spot” amid the uncertain global scenario, according to Ernst & Young’s Global Automotive Center. Driven by improved consumer confidence, pent-up demand and easier credit availability, sales of light vehicles reached 17.13 million units, registering a growth of 12.5 percent. Production in North […]

  • Michigan Doctors Launch Effort to Improve Medicare

    ANN ARBOR — More than 1,800 Michigan physicians will work together to tackle the challenge of providing better medical care and slowing the growth of health costs, in a new effort that will help them care for 81,000 of their Medicare-enrolled patients. The new organization is a joint venture of the University of Michigan Health […]

  • Farrah Fawcett Foundation Issues Grant for Patient Assistance Fund

    DETROIT — The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center has received a $25,000 grant through the Farrah Fawcett Foundation to establish the Farrah Fawcett Fund for Patient Assistance at Karmanos. The fund will be administered by Karmanos’ Social Work Department and will provide assistance to patients being treated at the center. The fund will help patients […]

  • 2013 Michigan Growth Capital Symposium

    ANN ARBOR — The Michigan Growth Capital Symposium today unveiled preliminary plans for the 2013 event, which is the Midwest’s annual must-attend gathering to connect angel, seed and growth stage investors from across the U.S. with executives of early stage and emerging growth companies and related stakeholders. It is scheduled for May 21-22, 2013 at […]

  • $31 Million Dollar Public Transportation Effort in the Works

    DETROIT — Gov. Rick Snyder today joined U.S. Transportation secretary Ray LaHood and other dignitaries in announcing more than $31 million in federal funds to jump-start the Regional Transit Authority and begin improvements to public transportation in southeastern Michigan. “This is a great example of relentless positive action,” Snyder said during the announcement at Wayne […]

  • Corporate Fleet Services Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Charity Giveaway

    DETROIT — Corporate Fleet Services is celebrating its 50th anniversary in the car, truck and specialty vehicle leasing business by providing tickets to the North American International Auto Show to Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan in addition to a ticket giveaway for clients, it was announced today. “We have been located in the […]

  • U.S. China Business Networking Conference

    The Detroit Chinese Business Association hosted the U.S. China Business Networking conference and dinner on Nov. 5 at the Westin Southfield Detroit. Topic discussions during the half-day conference included joint ventures, purchasing, technology, and acquisitions. Photographs by Patrick Gloria.

  • Appointment, Reappointment Made to Gaming Control Board

    LANSING — Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointment of Dennis Beagen, of Northville, and the reappointment of Michael Watza, of Novi, to the Michigan Gaming Control Board. The five-member board licenses and regulates commercial casinos in Detroit, and oversees pari-mutuel horse racing and Native American casinos throughout the state. Not more than three members […]

  • Jaffe, Raitt, Heuer & Weiss Gains New Partner

    SOUTHFIELD — Demrie L. (Wilkinson) Graham has joined Jaffe Raitt Heuer & Weiss as a partner in the Firm’s real estate practice group. Jaffe CEO Bill Sider made the announcement. Ms. Graham has extensive experience in complex commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, development, and leasing and purchase agreements. Prior to joining Jaffe, Ms. […]

  • New Owners Acquire Southfield Centre

    SOUTHFIELD — Real Ventures Southfield Centre LLC today announced it has acquired the Southfield Centre at 18000 W. 9 Mile Rd. near Northwestern Highway in Southfield from Franklin Street Properties. Andy Farbman, spokesman for Real Ventures Southfield Centre and president of the full service commercial real estate firm, Farbman Group, made the announcement. The Southfield […]

  • Daimler Creates Mobility Services Subsidiary

    STUTTGART, Germany — As part of its plan to significantly expand the mobility services business operations, Daimler Financial Services AG has created a subsidiary known as Daimler Mobility Services GmbH. The new company’s headquarters are in Stuttgart. “Especially urban customers demand new and flexible mobility solutions – and we want to offer these services to them […]

  • Bank of Birmingham Named Among Safest Banks in America

    BIRMINGHAM — One of the safest banks in America is right here in Birmingham. Bank of Birmingham was recently ranked as one of the 383 safest banks in America by InvestingAnswers and as a 5-Star Superior Bank by BauerFinancial. “Both the ‘safest’ and  ‘5-Star’ ratings reinforce our values of community and fiscal responsibility,” says Rob Farr, […]

  • AT&T Activates New Cell Site In Farmington Hills

    tDETROIT — AT&T* today announced the activation of a new mobile internet cell site in Farmington Hills near Farmington and W. 13 Mile Roads. The cell site will enhance coverage for area residents and businesses. With mobile Internet speeds, AT&T customers can surf the Web, download files faster, and enjoy the latest interactive mobile applications. […]

  • Michigan Universities Generate $15.5B in Annual Revenue

    LANSING — Michigan’s University Research Corridor generated $15.5 billion in economic impact statewide, exceeded $2 billion in annual research expenditures, and awarded more than 31,600 degrees in one year, placing it at or near the top of seven university innovation clusters in the U.S., according to a new Economic Impact Report released today. The URC […]

  • Easter Seals Michigan Announces New Medical Director

    AUBURN HILLS — Easter Seals Michigan has announced that it has hired Dr. Richard Solomon as its vice president of medical affairs. Dr. Solomon also is medical director of The PLAY Project at The Ann Arbor Center for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Board-certified in general pediatrics and developmental and behavioral pediatrics, Dr. Solomon has been […]

  • Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund Invests $1M in Start-Ups

    ANN ARBOR — Four Michigan companies recently received investments from the Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund, totaling $1 million. To date, the Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund, a collaborative effort of Michigan’s SmartZones to support start-ups’ product commercialization, has awarded 83 Michigan companies with seed funding totaling more than $19 million. “It’s exciting to see how Michigan […]

  • Fifth Third Bank CEO Joins Walsh College Board of Trustees

    TROY — Walsh College President Stephanie Bergeron is pleased to announce that David Girodat has been elected to the Walsh College Board of Trustees. President and CEO of Fifth Third Bank, Eastern Michigan, Girodat is responsible for the growth and strategic direction of the four lines of business including: commercial banking, branch banking, consumer lending, and investment […]

  • MEDC announces LiveWorkLaunch!

    LANSING —The Michigan Economic Development Corporation today announced a new effort to attract entrepreneurial college students from around the country and connect them with the resources they’ll need to create and sustain a successful Michigan business. LiveWorkLaunch!, based on MEDC’s successful LiveWorkDetroit! career networking program, will showcase opportunities available in Michigan for graduates looking to […]

  • Snyder: 14 Companies Approved for State Incentives

    LANSING — Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the Michigan Strategic Fund’s approval of state incentives to support 14 business expansions that are expected to generate more than $1.1 billion in investments and add 4,590 jobs in Michigan. “Our reinvention of Michigan is all about more and better jobs for families and bright futures for our […]

  • Medical Main Street and Michigan-based Life Science Companies

    WATERFORD — Representatives from Oakland County and the Michigan Economic Development Corp. are leaving Sunday for Dubai to promote Medical Main Street and Michigan-based life science companies at one of the largest medical conferences in the world. The county was invited because the traction the Medical Main Street name is getting nationally and internationally, County […]

  • Ray Wert Launches Digital Content and Tiny Toy Car

    tDETROIT — Ray Wert, former executive director of content for Gawker Media, today announced he has launched a digital content and advertising strategy studio, Tiny Toy Car, in Detroit and New York. The agency will provide online publishers and their automotive and agency clients with customized, branded advertising content designed to entertain, inform and engage […]

  • Gorcyca Joins Giarmarco Law Firm

    TROY — Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton P.C. has named  David G. Gorcyca to the firm to practice in the areas of criminal defense and civil litigation. Gorcyca was elected in 1996 as Oakland County prosecutor, and was re-elected to that position in 2000 and 2004 before retiring in 2008 to enter private practice. While he […]

  • Chrysler Gives Sneak Peek Inside New Mopar '13

    AUBURN HILLS — Chrysler Group LLC released an interior image of its new Mopar ’13 limited-edition vehicle, which will be shown at next month’s Chicago Auto Show.”This vehicle is the perfect canvas for personalization and customization,” said Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO of Mopar. “We couldn’t wait to get our hands on it and give […]

  • Foster Swift Elects 3 New Shareholders

    LANSING — The law firm of Foster Swift Collins and Smith has named three new shareholders: attorneys Alexander Ayar, John Inhulsen, and David Russell. Ayar is currently a member of the Commercial Litigation practice group works in the firm’s Farmington Hills office. He focuses his law practice in the areas of commercial litigation, construction litigation, […]

  • Emerald City Designs Awarded Best Floral Design

    FARMINGTON HILLS — Emerald City Designs was awarded Best Floral Design 2012 at The Special Event Gala Awards this past Friday, January 18th in Chicago, Illinois. Each year Special Events Magazine distinguishes the finest work in special events worldwide. Entrants range from the United States and Canada to Denmark and Russia. This year Special Event […]

  • Habitat for Humanity Adds New Board Member

    MOUNT CLEMENS — Dawn Dyer Magretta is currently the director of Macomb Community College Foundation and Alumni Relations and has been unanimously elected to serve on the Macomb County Habitat for Humanity board of directors. “I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with such an outstanding organization that has such an important […]

  • Hantz Bank Southfield Grand Opening

    Hantz Bank held a grand opening reception on Oct. 24 at its newest branch in Southfield. The company, part of Hantz Group Inc., has bank branches in Clinton Township, Ann Arbor, and Tecumseh. Branches in Romeo and Taylor are scheduled to open in early 2013. Photographs by Nick Martines.

  • Automakers to Collaborate on Fuel Cell Tech

    DEARBORN — Daimler AG, Ford Motor Co., and Nissan Motor Co. have signed a unique three-way agreement to accelerate the commercialization of fuel cell electric vehicle technology. The goal of the collaboration is to jointly develop a common fuel cell electric vehicle system while reducing investment costs associated with the engineering of the technology. Each […]

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