July-August 2009
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Building the Brands
Bloomfield Hills-based Pulte Homes is poised to become the largest homebuilder in the country, but can it derive new and repeat business by becoming a household word like Apple, Target, or Coca-Cola?
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Rx for Michigan
In just a single decade, Michigan’s economy — once the nation’s pre-eminent — has sadly become America’s poster child for underdevelopment and out-migration.
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Fountain of Youth
A Huntington Woods entrepreneur and her husband have created a successful line of children’s clothing that’s won over celebrities and everyday families.
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A New Government Business Model
Once upon a time, politics was about serving the public good, assisting needy families and, yes, kissing babies.
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The Plastic Plunge
A new Web site developed in a Michigan State MBA class has attracted more than 125 national retailers and is helping spare the environment from harmful PVCs.
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Academic Inc.
A who’s who of Michigan’s most prominent collegians.
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Michigan Gross State Product By Industry
Source: Center for Michigan analysis of U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis data released on June 2, 2009
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Freedom of the Press
After years of giving away their products online, Motown’s once-mighty newspapers are still reeling from the aftershocks.
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Digital Revolution
Advances in sophisticated design tools used to create consumer products or monitor large-scale operations such as electric grids are boosting the fortunes of a Commerce Township technology firm.
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The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Detroit
In an effort to feature metro Detroit’s up-and-coming business leaders, DBusiness presents the first annual MBA Entrepreneur Spotlight.
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Next Generation
An expanded engineering development center at Wayne State University in Detroit will conduct R&D on the next wave of medical devices, biofuels, and smart sensors.
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Steve Thomas and Mark Lewis
Planet Green, New York and Community 1st Development, Farmington Hills.
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The Silent Killers
The state’s ill-conceived effort to expunge the irrepressible emerald ash borer has wasted precious Michigan tax dollars, cost businesses and homeowners millions of dollars in damages, and led to the destruction of billions of North American ash trees.
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Rayna Handelman
Global Electric Vehicle Coordinator, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., Tokyo. The e-interview.
NADA Says EPA Decision to Grant Calif. Waiver is Troubling
In response to the action taken on June 30 by the Environmental Protection Agency to allow California and 13 other states to implement their own fuel economy and greenhouse gas program.
GiftZip.com is Making Waves in the Business Community
Web 2.0 business receiving wide acceptance and recognition since launch.
In a Tough Economy, Michigan Businesses Band Together for Success
Ah! Toscana!, Piadina Mia, and Il Fornaio Bakery are using their complementary products and skills to create unique cooking events aimed at people who appreciate great food that is also healthy and authentic.
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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan-owned DenteMax Acquired by Dental Network of America
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan announced today that its DenteMax dental network leasing subsidiary has been acquired by Dental Network of America, LLC (DNoA), a strategic move that — coupled with a business arrangement between BCBSM and DNoA.
Liquid Elastomer Molding (LEM)(TM) Technology Offers Innovative Solution in Fuel Cell Development
Federal-Mogul Corporation (NASDAQ:FDML), a leading global supplier of powertrain, chassis and safety technologies, has developed an innovative gasket technology to assist in fuel cell development for energy-efficient vehicles.
Get a Second Chance for a FastTrac to Entrepreneurship July 25 at WSU
More than 500 people attended the June 24 FastTrac to the Future, a free conference designed to give budding entrepreneurs resources and guidance to help them create successful companies.
Ford Motor Company Maintains Auto Industry Leadership in Supplier Diversity
Ford Motor Company said today that its percentage of spending with minority- and women-owned businesses in the U.S. remained in line with prior years, following through on the company’s commitment to maintain a diverse supply base.
Formation of Chrysler Group LLC Board Is Completed
Nine-Member Board Brings Wide-Ranging Experience and Skills to Board’s Mission to Advance Chrysler’s Future Viability
Teoma Systems Standardizes on Ruckus Wireless ‘Smart Wi-Fi’ for Next-Generation WLAN Deployments
Teoma Systems, a leading voice, data and video solutions systems integrator, announced today that it has standardized on Ruckus Wireless(TM) ZoneFlex(TM) Smart Wireless LAN (WLAN) products and technology for all of its VoIP and next-generation wireless LAN (WLAN) deployments. Teoma Systems will provide the Ruckus Smart Wi-Fi equipment to its clients in the hospitality, education and manufacturing arenas.
ITC Signs Green Power Express Agreement With MDU Resources
Interest, investment in Upper Midwest transmission network continues to grow.
Lear Secures Support From a Majority of its Creditors to Proceed With Debt Restructuring Plan
Company Initiates Previously Announced Voluntary Reorganization Proceedings for certain U.S. and Canadian Subsidiaries Under Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization
Polk Launches New Solution for Identifying Vehicles Eligible for Cash for Clunkers Program
Cash for Clunkers marketing list solution will help OEMs, dealers and advertising agencies target owners of qualified vehicles.
CBS Radio Detroit Announces Michigan Makes Movies Expo
CBS Radio Detroit announced today it will host “Michigan Makes Movies Expo” Sunday, July 12 from 10am to 6pm, at the Rock Financial Showplace, in Novi Michigan.
Emerging Sectors and Traditional Business Investment Tops $2.4 Billion in Past Five Years
Oakland County has had more than $2.4 billion worth of business investment in the past five years, giving residents a reason to be optimistic about the future of the county during the most difficult economic challenge in its history, County Executive L. Brooks Patterson said today.
Delta Dental Debuts Low-Cost Healthcare Discount Card
Delta Dental Patient Direct™ offers big savings on dental treatment and more.
U.S. Army Engineers Discuss Power and Energy Capabilities
U.S. Army engineers and industry partners converged on Sterling Heights, MI, July 7 and 8, to discuss solutions for powering the Army’s future force.
Chamber Renews Call for Structural Reform
Today the Detroit Regional Chamber renewed its call for substantial structural reform and issued a clarification to media reports regarding the its role in broad tax reform in Michigan.
Michigan Voters Want Significant Budget Reform and Specific Budget Cuts
“The Michigan public is very clear that they want to see significant budget reform and they are specific on where they want to see cuts,” said Doug Rothwell, President of Detroit Renaissance.
TARDEC to Support Southeastern Michigan Automotive-Robotics Initiative
In efforts to partner Michigan’s automotive-based companies with Department of Defense (DOD) robotic requirements, several organizations are coming together to create an Automotive-Robotics Cluster July 28 and 29 at Oakland University, Rochester, MI.
Bosch Invests $8 Million to Upgrade Michigan Vehicle Test Track Facility
Bosch collaborates with local companies, invests in local community with test track improvements – Company continues its commitment to innovation in chassis systems.
Detroit Renaissance Applauds Senate for Making Tough Decisions on State Budget
In response to the state budget bills recently passed by the Michigan House and Senate, Detroit Renaissance, a private, non-profit leadership organization dedicated to accelerating Michigan’s economic growth, released the following statement.
Improving U.S.-Canadian Border Key to Detroit Region’s Economic Success
Detroit Regional Chamber Partners with Brookings Institution on Expansive, New Study Outlining How to Improve the U.S-Canadian Border.
August Business Workshops Offered By Oakland County
Business owners and entrepreneurs who need assistance are invited to attend seminars in August, 2009 offered by the Oakland County Business Center.
2nd Phase Expansion at Henry Ford Hospital Boosts ICU Capacity
The second and final phase of a two-story addition at Henry Ford Hospital set to open July 21 expanded its intensive care capacity to the largest in Michigan and created 72 new jobs, further enhancing the hospital’s capability to treat critically ill patients.
Whirlpool Corporation and Hisense Kelon Open New Joint-Venture Plant in China
Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE:WHR), the world’s leading home appliance manufacturer, and Hisense Kelon, one of the leading electronic and home appliance companies in China, today inaugurated their joint venture manufacturing facility, which will produce world-class, innovative refrigerators and washing machines for the Chinese and export markets.
TRW’s 24 GHz Radar Technology Draws Increasing OEM Interest
TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. (NYSE:TRW), the global leader in active and passive safety systems, today announced significant customer interest worldwide for its 24 GHz AC100 radar system and is currently working with a number of OEMs on development programs.
Obama’s Automotive Task Force Leader to Address Suppliers
Governments are playing a critical role in the restructuring of the global automotive industry.
Renaissance Praises Dillon for Courage and Creativity
Says Health Care Reform Proposal Could Be Part of State Budget Solution.
J.D. Power and Associates Reports: Appeal of Newly Launched Models Improves Dramatically in 2009
Volkswagen Receives Four Segment-Level Awards; Ford, Honda, Mercedes-Benz and Nissan Receive Two Each.
Azure Dynamics Awarded Two New Patents
Azure Dynamics Corporation (TSX: AZD) – (“Azure”) or (the “Company”), a leading developer of state-of-the-art green technologies that address environmental and cost issues for the commercial transportation industry, announced today that it has earned two new patents for innovations for its proprietary hybrid electric drive trains.
How To Reduce Cost Without Sacrificing Your Health Coverage
HRA Offers Cost Containment Plans to Increase Health Coverage for Employees.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health Features Discovery of Asbestos-Related Pain Origin
Scientists at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute’s National Center for Vermiculite and Asbestos-Related Cancers (NCVAC) have discovered a probable reason for the unrelenting chest pain experienced in certain patients with asbestos-related diseases and cancers.
Asterand PLC Signs Global Agreement with Lundbeck
Asterand plc (LSE: ATD), (“Asterand” or the “Company”), a leading provider of human tissue and human tissue-based services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies engaged in drug discovery research, announces today that it has entered into a Global Framework Research Agreement with Lundbeck A/S.
DRC, United States Chamber, & Small Businesses Intensify Push for Transportation Reform
As the expiration of funding for the nation’s surface transportation programs approaches, the United States Chamber of Commerce led more than 100 business leaders, association executives, the Detroit Regional Chamber and other local chambers of commerce members from 28 states to Capitol Hill for a “Transportation is Your Business” fly-in.
Walsh College Expands Network of Community College Partnerships
Students have more opportunities for advancing their education.
Countdown Underway to 30th Anniversary Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance Weekend
In less than two weeks car collectors and automotive aficionados from around the continent will descend on Rochester, Michigan to enjoy an exceptional motoring weekend in the heart of the American automotive landscape when the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance.
Pure Michigan Bayview Mackinac Race Sets Sail with GPS Tracking
For the first time sailing fans around the world will be able to monitor the Pure Michigan Bayview Mackinac Race with Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking technology available exclusively at michigan.org/gps.
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Motor City Rocker
Kid Rock performed before more than 80,000 fans on July 17-18 at Comerica Park in Detroit.
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Call to the Greens
Vista Maria in Dearborn Heights, Michigan’s largest private, not for profit child welfare agency for girls and their families, hosted the George Blaha 20th Annual High Hopes Golf Invitational at Forest Lake Country Club in Bloomfield Township on July 20.
Beaumont Approved for Anesthesiology Residency Program
The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education recently approved an anesthesiology residency program for Beaumont Hospitals.
First-Ever Michigan CEO Economic Survey Completed
Forecast Indicates MI Economy Will Continue to Slide, But US Economy Will Hit Bottom in Next Six Months.
Pierce to Lead the Detroit Regional Chamber Board
Welcome New Board Directors for 2009-2010 Program Year.
The Engineering Society of Detroit Announces its 108th President
William (Bill) Russo, Director Vehicle Operations Manufacturing, Ford Motor Company, became The Engineering Society of Detroit’s (ESD) 108th president effective July 1. He replaces Richard J. Haller, President and COO of Walbridge, whose two-year term ended on June 30, 2009.
Miller Canfield and Law Firm of David Mendelson Lead Valassis
The law firm of Miller Canfield and the Law Offices of David Mendelson achieved an important victory for Valassis, one of the nation’s leading media and marketing services companies, in its epic struggle against News America Marketing (NAM), a part of Rupert Murdock’s News Corp.
Michigan House G.O.P. Proposes $1.4B in Budget Cuts and Savings
Detroit Renaissance, a private, non-profit business leadership organization dedicated to accelerating Michigan’s economic growth, commended the House G.O.P.’s “Reinvigorate, Reinvest, Reform” plan to enact $1.4 billion in overall budget cuts and savings.
Great Lakes Transportation Holding Acquires Assets of Metro Cars and Checker Sedan
New Company to Operate Under Metro Cars Brand, Service Detroit Metropolitan Airport.
J.D. Power and Associates Reports: July New-Vehicle Retail Sales Indicate Slowing in Market Deterioration
Cash for Clunkers Program Has Had Minimal Impact to Date.
Michigan Democratic Party’s 2010 Ballot Package is Reckless, Says Michigan Chamber of Commerce
The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today expressed its opposition to a series of possible ballot proposals announced yesterday by Michigan Democratic Party Chairman Mark Brewer, calling the package of proposals “anti-jobs and anti-growth.”
The Mall at Partridge Creek Announces Strolling Sidewalk Sale
The Mall at Partridge Creek makes shopping a breeze this summer at its first-annual Strolling Sidewalk Sale from Friday, July 31, through Sunday, August 2, 2009.
Governor Granholm Challenges Italian Automotive Suppliers
More than 200 automotive executives and government officials filled the main ballroom of the Townsend Hotel as the Italian American Alliance for Business and Technology (IAABT) presented twenty-three technology suppliers from Italy.
Ghostly International & o2 Creative Solutions Present Discovery iPhone App
Since 1999, Ghostly International — along with its dancefloor-oriented counterpart, Spectral Sound — has been partnering with artists from across the globe, releasing music without the restriction of established genres or classification.
Behr America Forms New Battery Cooling Group
In support of the company’s accelerated development activities within the fast-growing hybrid and electric vehicle market, Behr America has formed a Battery Cooling Group at its headquarters in Troy to meet the increasing demand for thermal-management technology.
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2010 Michigan Governor’s Race
U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, who represents Michigan’s 2nd Congressional District and is a gubernatorial candidate, kicked off an initiative on July 27 to try 100 different jobs in the state by election day.
Polk Introduces Powerful Consumer Segmentation Enhancement to Cash for Clunkers
New consumer segmentation complements the initial Polk solution; Provides highly effective means for prioritizing marketing efforts.
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Corporate Aviation
On July 17, Donald A. Dwyer, vice president of global commercial sales for Hawker Beechcraft, introduced the Premier 1A, a seven-passenger, fuel-efficient jet that is now being offered for sale or charter at Pentastar Aviation at Oakland International Airport in Waterford Township.
Baker TIlly Survey Indicates Manufacturers Cautiously Optimistic
Firms waiting for rebound in customer demand to avoid possible cutbacks and layoffs.
Michigan Sees Surge in Tourism from Other States
State’s third largest industry reports travel into state is up.
Northwood University Investing in Challenged Auto Industry Through Expanded Degree
Northwood University is bullish on the global automotive industry — so much so that it has invested in a variety of new educational programs and an expanded range of scholarship opportunities for current and future industry professionals
Genesis Physicians Group Accelerates Healthcare Information Access
Physician Association Takes Leadership Role in Providing “Backbone” for Sharing Regional Health Information.
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Rockin’ on the Riverfront
Legendary rocker Rick Derringer and his band opened the 3rd annual Rockin’ on the Riverfront concert series on July 24 behind the Wintergarden at the Renaissance Center in downtown Detroit.
Kellogg Delivers Strong Q2 2009; Raises Full-Year Guidance
Kellogg Company (NYSE:K) today reported second quarter 2009 financial results that include double-digit growth in net earnings and internal operating profit.
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Home Run for Charity
Detroit Tigers’ center fielder Curtis Granderson hosted Passport to the Wines of the World on July 23 at the Big Rock Chop House in Birmingham.
Dow to Divest Ownership in OPTIMAL Group of Companies to PETRONAS for $660 Million
The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE:DOW) and Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) today announced that they have reached an agreement for Dow’s Union Carbide Corporation subsidiary to sell its entire shares of ownership in the OPTIMAL Group of Companies (OPTIMAL) to PETRONAS for $660 million. PETRONAS would fund this acquisition through internally generated funds.
David O. Egner Named Executive Director of New Economy Initiative
Funders are accelerating SE Michigan’s transition to innovation economy.
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Making Dreams Come True
Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson and Janet Dobson Vernier hosted the 30th annual Dobson Open Golf Extravaganza on July 27 at the Great Oaks Country Club in Rochester Hills
Obama Administration Taps Longtime Domino’s Pizza Board Member
Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NYSE:DPZ) , the recognized world leader in pizza delivery, announced that Dennis F. Hightower has departed its Board in order to accept President Obama’s nomination for Deputy Secretary of Commerce. The post requires that the nominee hold no other Board or management positions.
LOCHMOOR CHRYSLER JEEP REINVENTS ITSELF
The new Lochmoor Automotive Group may look familiar; in its previous incarnation as Lochmoor Chrysler Jeep, it was the only Chrysler and Jeep dealer in Detroit for 30 years. Founded by Gus Russo, joined by his daughter, Gina, Lochmoor has accelerated ahead into a new incarnation.
Dow Corning Reports Sales and Profits for the Second Quarter of 2009
Dow Corning Corp. today reported consolidated adjusted net income of $115.5 million for the second quarter of 2009, a decrease of 38 percent from net income of $187.7 million reported in the second quarter of 2008. For the first half of 2009, adjusted net income was $182.2 million, a decline of 48 percent from net income of $348.1 million reported in the first half of last year.
ImageSoft Launches ProcessPoint to Provide On-Demand Document Processing
ImageSoft, Inc., a Southfield, Mich.-based company that helps business and government streamline and improve processes with technology, announced today that, in conjunction with Total Solutions, of Brighton, Mich., it has launched ProcessPoint LLC, a subsidiary to provide cost effective, on-demand alternatives to premises-based document processing.
New One-of-a-Kind Laboratory to Feature Unique Capabilities, Equipment
The U.S. Army will lead the way in producing safer, more efficient and more high-powered ground vehicles in the future with the construction of the Department of Defense’s Ground System Power and Energy Laboratory (GSPEL).
TechTown Forum Helps Detroit Entrepreneurs Make the Leap and Trade with China
Detroit entrepreneurs exploring new markets are invited to the August meeting of the Chinese Business Forum, featuring three speakers offering insight into why they should make the leap and trade with China, one of the largest global trading partners.
Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak Receives Pet Imaging Accreditation
Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak has been awarded a three-year accreditation in positron emission tomography, or PET, in oncology, cardiac and rrain by the American College of Radiology.
Fulton Innovation Partners with Universities
Kendall College of Art and Design Students Present Product Concepts Powered by eCoupled(TM) Wireless Power Technology.
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Buick Open Pro Am — Detroit Style
The Buick Open Pro Am at Warwick Hills Country Club in Grand Blanc drew plenty of Detroit luminaries.
2010 Ford Taurus Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick; Offers Suite Of Standard Safety Technologies
The new 2010 Taurus builds on Ford Motor Company’s safety leadership by adding to its leading number of IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings.
Ricardo, Inc., Says Advanced Spark-Ignited Boosted Engines Will Make Inroads into Diesel Segments
By 2015, advanced spark-ignited engines have the potential to become a major force in diesel-dominated medium-duty commercial truck and off-road segments, including agricultural and construction vehicles, Ricardo, Inc., Vice President John Pinson told participants in the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2009 Directions in Engine-Efficiency and Emissions Research (DEER) conference, which is being held in Dearborn, Mich., Aug. 3-6.
Dow Enhances Liquidity and Financial Flexibility, Prices $2.75 Billion of Public Notes
The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE:DOW) today announced that it priced a $2.75 billion underwritten public offering of debt securities, including $250 million aggregate principal amount of floating rate notes due 2011, $1.25 billion aggregate principal amount of 4.85% notes due 2012, and $1.25 billion aggregate principal amount of 5.90% notes due 2015.
Michigan Wine Competition Results Announced
Outstanding 2007 Reds are the Stars of the Judging.
New Buick Crossover Will Feature Plug-In Hybrid System
General Motors’ plug-in hybrid technology will be introduced in a new Buick crossover vehicle in 2011, Tom Stephens, GM vice chairman of product development, announced here today during the Management Briefing Seminars.
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Caribbean Persuasions
The Michigan Chapter of the March of Dimes held a fundraiser, called A One Day Caribbean Getaway, at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club on Aug. 5.
Ford Cites Energy Policy as Critical Factor in Shaping Future Vehicle Fleet
Ford Motor Company’s top environmental officer today pointed to the need for continued cooperation with the federal government as a significant factor to advance the company and the country’s vision for greener transportation.
Cash for Clunkers to Cause Used-Car-Value Bubble
August Kelley Blue Book Market Report Offers Forecast of Used-Car Industry After Cash for Clunkers.
Community Development Advocates of Detroit Releases Statement on Future of the City of Detroit
Community Development Advocates of Detroit (CDAD), Detroit’s trade association of community development organizations, has released a statement outlining eight essential principles for the revitalization of Detroit and its neighborhoods.
Michigan Attorney General and Michigan Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation Near Agreement
Medicare Supplemental rate request not affected by tentative agreement on rate increases for nongroup and group conversion policies.
Wayne State Receives $5 Million Grant for Electric Vehicle Engineering Program
As part of President Barak Obama’s economic recovery plan to revitalize the automotive industry, the U.S. Department of Energy awarded Wayne State University a $5 million federal grant to provide an electric vehicle engineering education and workforce training program.
