May-June 2009
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Reversal of Recession
With the nation mired in a recession (seven years and counting for Michigan), raising taxes on small-business owners, who generate the bulk of new jobs, doesn’t make much sense.
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Battle of the Bridges
In mid-January, hopes soared among public officials, including Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis and state Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Detroit), whose 12th District covers 95,000 residents on the city’s southwest side, when the U.S. Department of Transportation gave preliminary environmental clearance for a public bridge in Detroit.
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My First Job
Local executives recall their first foray into the corporate world.
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Motor Miser
Tougher emissions laws will eventually help hybrid vehicle sales, but people like Kyle Schwulst aren’t waiting for regulations to dictate market conditions.
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Can Michigan Go Electric?
How do you put 1 million plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles on the road by 2015?
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Reed Kroloff and Alberto Alessi
In the world of luxury housewares, Italian design house Alessi SpA has set itself apart from the competition by partnering with world-class architects and designers to produce stunning, memorable products.
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A Scholastic Versailles
Before General Motors Corp. developed its famed technical center in Warren, akin to an industrial Versailles, the automaker created the world’s first concept car, automatic transmission, and hundreds of other advances at its Argonaut Building in Detroit’s New Center.
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‘Shovel-Ready’ for 2010
The $797-million stimulus bill the White House pushed through Congress was a rare feat. The spending measure, called the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, was designed to stimulate the economy by funding schools, parks, infrastructure, and roads. The only hitch was that the projects be “shovel-ready.
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Culture Clubs
While working in the accounts-receivables department of a local equipment distributor, Melissa Price wanted to expand her skills by learning IT during her lunch breaks.
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Kathleen Ligocki
CEO, GS Motors, Mexico City discusses her strategy for low-cost automotive sales in Mexico.
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South of the Border
Two months into the Obama administration, Mexico slapped tariffs on 90 U.S. agricultural and industrial goods in retaliation for Washington’s cancellation of a pilot program that allowed Mexican trucks to transport cargo across America.
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Motown Magic
A new $40-million film studio in southwest Detroit joins several other production centers planned in Michigan.
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Serving the Shareholders
With billions of dollars in losses racked up on Wall Street casting new light on how boards of directors operate, the time may be right to re-examine the nation’s corporate governance laws.
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Somebody’d Better Contact Joe
The Grosse Pointe Shores resident, who’s sold more than 5 million books, including How to Sell Anything to Anybody and How to Close Every Sale, has reached out to General Motors Corp., Ford Motor Co., and Chrysler LLC in recent years
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Hold the Credits
Some 50 films will be shot in Michigan this year, but more work needs to be done if the movie industry is to become a major contributor to the state economy.
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Harbingers of Wholesale
Larry Gaynor has an eye for trend-spotting, a willingness to fail, and the instincts of a thief. But he only steals from the best.
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Back From the Edge
With people less willing to live in outlying communities because of the recession, rising energy prices, and falling investments, they’re finding that living in established communities is providing them
with untold benefits. Michigan’s Fortune 1000
These 29 companies are global leaders in the automotive, consumer products, furniture, and home furnishings sectors, producing some of the best-known brands in the world.
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Hank Meijer
Hank Meijer, co-chairman and CEO of Meijer Inc., addresses the Spring meeting of the International Council of Shopping Centers in Grand Rapids.
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Resort of Renown
Tashmoo Park on Harsens Island held a special place in Detroiters’ hearts more than a century ago before stricter vessel laws, rising entertainment offerings, and the birth of the auto industry ultimately doomed the resort.
Dow Corning Reports Sales and Profits for the First Quarter of 2009
Dow Corning Corp. today reported consolidated adjusted net income of $66.7 million for the first quarter of 2009, a decrease of 58 percent from adjusted net income of $160.4 million reported in the first quarter of 2008.
American Axle & Manufacturing Reports First Quarter 2009 Financial Results
American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM), which is traded as AXL on the NYSE, today reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2009.
HKS Detroit Office Relocates
HKS Architects, P.C. relocated its office to the historic Water Wheel Centre building in downtown Northville, 30 miles northwest of Downtown Detroit.
Building Industry Association Announces Winners in 2009 Parade of Homes
Building Industry Association of Southeastern Michigan (BIA) announced the winners of its 20th annual Parade of Homes architectural judging.
Innovation Expo Will Spotlight and Promote New Ideas
In addition to interactive discussions with our nation’s top leaders, The National Summit will feature Innovation Expo, a technology showcase and best practices workshop that will explore and advance American innovation.
Majority Says the Struggles of the American Car Manufacturer Won’t Impact Next Purchase
According to a recent Cars.com survey, 59 percent of consumers said that the current economy and struggles of the American car manufacturers will have no impact on whether or not their next car purchase will be an American car.
Patterson Launches Four County Economic Growth Alliance to Develop and Promote Business Opportunities
Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson and top officials from Genesee, Livingston and St. Clair counties Tuesday announced the formation of the Economic Growth Alliance to collaborate on joint opportunities for economic growth, diversification and affect legislation that may impact the four counties.
Compuware Announces Strategic Divestiture, Sharpens Focus On Optimizing End-to-end Application Performance
Compuware Corporation today announced an important milestone in its Business Service Delivery strategy. The company has signed an agreement for Micro Focus to acquire assets from Compuware’s Quality Solutions product line, including development, sales, and customer support teams, as well as specific technologies.
Business Community Calls For Aggressive Spending Reductions
Today the Detroit Regional Chamber called on the Michigan legislature and Governor Jennifer Granholm to cut spending and immediately pass long term structural reforms to right-size Michigan’s budget.
Renaissance Calls On State Leaders To Enact More Aggressive Budget Cuts & Reforms
Detroit Renaissance, a private, non-profit leadership organization dedicated to accelerating the region’s economic growth, renewed its call today on the Michigan legislature and Governor Jennifer Granholm to more aggressively cut spending and pass long term structural reforms to right-size Michigan’s budget.
Dana Point Harbor Installs ilumisys LED Light Tubes
ilumisys, Inc., developer and producer of next-generation solid-state lighting technology, announced today that its channel partner, IHNcorp, has installed several LED light tubes at the Vintage Marina Partners’ Embarcadero Marina and Dana Wharf in Dana Point Harbor, Calif.
Grand Valley State graduates are ‘Brain Gain’ in Michigan
The latest numbers from Grand Valley State University show that its graduates are bucking reports that college educated young people are leaving Michigan in record numbers.
Detroit Celebrates National Transportation Week May 9-16
The Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau announced today that National Transportation Week (NTW) is back in The D for its third consecutive year, May 9-16.
Bacteria Create Aquatic Superbugs in Waste Treatment Plants
For bacteria in wastewater treatment plants, the stars align perfectly to create a hedonistic mating ground for antibiotic-resistant superbugs eventually discharged into streams and lakes.
Online Registration Open Now For Oakland County Green Summit
Business owners, developers, lenders, community officials and those interested in turning their green operation into money in their pockets are encouraged to register for Oakland County’s Green Summit: Your Green Bottom Line.
Franklin Wind Energy Debuts New Vertical Axis Wind Turbine at AWEA
Franklin Wind Energy Group unveiled its latest wind turbine product this week at the AWEA Windpower 2009 conference in Chicago.
Consumers Energy Invites Bids for New Michigan-Based Renewable Energy Projects; Supports Implementation of New Energy Law
Consumers Energy is inviting developers of renewable energy projects to submit bids to supply green power to serve the utility’s customers.
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers to Sell Hundreds of Lifting Equipment Items and Cranes
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers (NYSE and TSX: RBA), the world’s largest industrial auctioneer, will be holding two unreserved public auctions in Detroit in May and June.
Energy Conversion Devices and Enfinity Announce Framework Agreement for Co-Development of Solar Projects
Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (ECD) (NASDAQ:ENER) and Enfinity, NV today announced plans to co-develop a portfolio of rooftop solar installations throughout the U.S., as well as in numerous European countries, including Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the Czech Republic.
CREW Detroit Announces Call for Entries for Annual IMPACT Awards Program
The Detroit chapter of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW Detroit) announces a call for entries for its 8th annual IMPACT Awards, honoring commercial properties with a positive impact on Southeast Michigan.
MHPN Announces 2009 Awards
The Michigan Historic Preservation Network (MHPN) is pleased to announce our 2009 Historic Preservation Awards winners.
New Online Resource for Consumers, Athletes and Coaches Concerned about Athletic Banned Substances
Recent news stories on steroid use in sports continue to emphasize the importance of screening dietary supplements and sports nutrition products for banned substances.
The Andiamo Restaurant Group Introduces Andiamo Lean
Joe Vicari, President and CEO of Andiamo Restaurant Group, has announced the introduction of Andiamo Lean, delicious new menu items where healthy living and fine dining meet, available at all 11 Andiamo locations.
Entertainment Yacht Company Keeps Business Afloat Despite Tough Economic Times
Steven Rybicki, VP & General Manager of locally based Infinity and Ovation Yacht Charters, said he is experiencing an increase in several market segments in its daily cruise business on the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair.
Azure Dynamics Balance(TM) Hybrid Electric to Deliver Mail at the University of Alberta
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 four Balance(TM) Hybrid Electric trucks were sold to the University of Alberta.
SEMA Seeks Protection for Collector Cars and Parts
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) urged Congress to include two additional provisions to controversial legislation that would provide a government voucher to consumers who buy a new car in exchange for scrapping a less fuel-efficient vehicle.
Detroit Metro Airport Receives $15 Million Stimulus Grant for Runway Rehabilitation
As many as 225 excavators, pavers, haulers, electricians and other construction workers are anticipated to be hard at work at Detroit Metro Airport this summer, thanks to a $15 million grant awarded to the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009.
Injunction Sought Against Unnecessary New Detroit International Bridge Crossing
Leading Southwest Detroit Community Organizations and Detroit International Bridge Company Unite to Sue U.S. Department of Transportation Over Flawed Decision Making Process.
DTE Energy Invests in Advanced Battery Maker A123Systems
DTE Energy Ventures recently made an equity investment in Massachusetts-based A123Systems, which is developing lithium ion batteries for automotive applications and announced plans to open a manufacturing plant in Livonia, Mich.
Prominent Figures in Port Authority History to Present New Technologies in Transportation Security
Great Lakes Region Welcomes SecurePort® 2009 Conference on June 1, Hosted by Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority.
The National Summit Posts Meeting Agenda
The National Summit today posted a preliminary agenda of panel discussion topics and speakers at NationalSummit.org
Michigan Business Tax Incentives Miss the Mark and Waste Taxpayer Money Economic Study Proves What Small Business Knows
The state’s largest small business association, the National Federation of Independent Business, has called the Anderson Economic Group study on Michigan business tax incentives “spot-on” in its conclusion that the efforts are mostly ineffective.
New Economy Initiative Announces $9.25 Million Investment
Partnership with Kauffman Foundation will Refocus Talents of Unemployed and Underemployed into New Areas.
North American Debut of Unique Alfa 8C Scheduled for Meadow Brook Concours
A one-of-a-kind 1934 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 (serial no. 2311237) will make its North American Debut at the 30th Anniversary Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance on August 2, 2009.
Ricardo Helps Shape CAFE Fuel Economy Ruling
Ricardo, Inc., a leading independent provider of technology, product innovation and engineering solutions to the world’s automotive, military, transport and new energy industries, has announced that is has provided technical support to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the final 2009 Light Duty vehicle CAFE rulemaking which will come into force for 2011.
Employee Benefits Website Revolutionizes Customer Accessibility & Improves Workflow
The Benefits Group, a Michigan-based employee benefits brokerage firm, announces a new web-based technology solution proven to cut costs and increase efficiencies.
Azure Dynamics Signs New Agreements With Thirteen Additional Dealerships
Azure Dynamics Corporation, a leading developer of innovative hybrid green technologies that address environmental and cost issues for operators of shuttle buses and commercial vehicle fleets, announced today it has signed agreements with thirteen additional dealerships to represent Azure’s innovative Balance(TM) Hybrid Electric Drive System.
NBS Merges with Bay City and Lansing-based Allied Office Interiors
NBS, a longstanding provider of workplace furniture and related products is pleased to announce the acquisition of Bay City and Lansing based Allied Office Interiors.
$15 Million to Develop New University Prep Science & Math High School On Detroit’s Riverfront
The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, Thompson Education Foundation and University Prep Science & Math (UPSM) today announced the beginning of renovation and construction for a new high school on Detroit’s near-east side.
Excellence Identified and Honored by AIA
The American Institute of Architects Michigan presented plaques for architectural excellence to the owners, architects and constructors of 10 buildings at its annual Celebration of Architecture on May 15 at the Book Cadillac Hotel in Detroit.
CITIGROUP CEO to Address The National Summit
Vikram S. Pandit, CEO, Citigroup Inc., is among more than a dozen new speakers announced today by The National Summit, which will bring the country’s
leaders togetherBorgWarner Celebrates Centennial Era at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
On May 24, thirty-three drivers will rev up their engines during the first race of the Centennial Era at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Dow to Divest Calcium Chloride Business and Interests in TRN Refinery
Company’s plans to pay down debt and enhance cash flow progressing ahead of schedule.
Typical Spring Selling Boost Has Been Tempered by Consumer Uncertainty
While the rate of decline in new-vehicle retail sales has slowed in May, compared with the previous 12 months, a high level of consumer uncertainty remains, which has led to a flattening of retail sales and a projected delay in market recovery of two to three months beyond the spring selling season.
Detroit Edison Seeks Information on Wind Energy Projects
Detroit Edison today issued a Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential partners interested in jointly developing wind energy projects with the company.
Michigan Leadership to Discuss the State’s Efforts to Bring Green Alternatives to the Motor City
EcoTuesday Detroit, Michigan’s preeminent green grassroots organization dedicated to serving and inspiring business leaders, will host Liesl Eichler Clark, deputy director of the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth (DELEG) for a discussion on greening Michigan at its next meeting on Tuesday, May 26, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Old Shillelagh in Detroit.
GMAC Financial Services Announces Key Capital and Liquidity Actions
GMAC Financial Services today announced several key actions that significantly improve the company’s capital position and access to liquidity.
Art Van Furniture Announces $1 Million Charity Challenge to Benefit Michigan’s Children
In honor of its 50th anniversary, Art Van Furniture has committed to supporting Michigan-based children, health and human services programs by providing $1 million to fund 50 grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000.
DIAS Holding Strengthens Strategic Alliance With Major Chinese Auto Parts Center
DIAS Holding, Inc. (OTC:DSHL) (BULLETIN BOARD: DSHL) , owner and operator of the Detroit International Auto Salon (DIAS), with 300,000 square feet of exhibition space for Asian companies to display their abilities as component resources
Consumers Energy Teams up with Ford Motor Co., Other Utilities on a Proposal to Promote the Use of Electric Vehicles
Consumers Energy has teamed up with Ford Motor Co. and 14 other utilities on a proposal for a national pilot project to promote the use of electric vehicles.
Compuware Establishes Leadership in Fast-Growing End User Experience Market
Market Growth Driven by Cost Optimization and Need to Retain Customers; Compuware Well-Positioned for Continued Success.
GVSU Professor Publishes Book on Business Processes
When it comes to making business run efficiently, it’s all about integration, according to Simha Magal, professor of management in Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business.
Beringea’s InvestMichigan! Growth Capital Fund makes investment in Bloomfield Hills
Beringea, one of the managers of the InvestMichigan! Growth Capital Fund and Michigan’s largest venture capital firm, announced an investment in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.-based gloStream, a healthcare software company that develops and sells certified electronic medical record (“EMR”) and practice management (“PM”) solutions.
New GMAC Board of Directors is Established
GMAC Financial Services today announced that Michael A. Carpenter, Mayree C. Clark and Franklin (Fritz) W. Hobbs were named as independent directors to GMAC’s board of directors, effective immediately.
Bosch Generated 13 Percent of Global Sales in North America
In 2008, the Bosch Group generated sales of $8.6 billion in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, representing 13 percent of the company’s global sales of $66.4 billion.
Energy-Efficient Engine Technology Wins Ford Team National Inventor of the Year Award
The Intellectual Property Owners Education Foundation is honoring the inventors of the Ford-patented Plasma Transferred Wire Arc (PTWA) technology used to apply coatings on engine cylinder bores with the 2009 National Inventor of the Year Award.
Caraco Pharmaceutical Laboratories, Ltd. Reports Results for the Fiscal Year 2009, Updates on FDA Inspection
Caraco Pharmaceutical Laboratories, Ltd. (NYSE Amex: CPD) recorded net sales of $337.2 million during Fiscal 2009 compared to $350.4 million during Fiscal 2008.
Eagle Ottawa – Redefining Luxury
Eagle Ottawa’s Vice President of Design and Marketing Pat Oldenkamp participated in a breakout discussion on redefining the premium interior at the Ward’s Auto Interiors Conference May 21, 2009.
Walsh College and Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services Team up to Offer New Workshops
June 8 kick-off event at Walsh College Troy campus to feature panel discussion, networking workshop, and job seekers networking event.
Magna Announces Continuing Involvement in Proposed Opel Solution
Magna International Inc. (TSX: MG.A, NYSE: MGA) announced today that, following extensive negotiations over the past several days with various stakeholders, including representatives of German federal and state governments
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David Farbman & Steve Dooley
David Farbman, founder and CEO of Outside Hub Inc. in Southfield, addresses targeted Internet marketing and advertising in a challenging economy. Outside Hub President Steve Dooley joins him.
Lear Elects to Exercise 30-Day Grace Period for Pending Interest Payments
Lear Corporation (NYSE:LEA) , a leading global supplier of automotive seating systems, electrical distribution systems and electronic products, announced today that it has chosen not to make semi-annual interest payments of approximately $38 million due on June 1, 2009
Building Industry Association Presents Green Built Introduction to Green Building
Building Industry Association of Southeastern Michigan (BIA) presents Green Built™ of Southeastern Michigan Introduction to Green Building on Wednesday, July 8, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Association Offices, 30375 Northwestern Highway, Suite 100, in Farmington Hills.
TechTown’s Forum Helps Local Businesses Bridge the Culture Gap and Do Business with India
Detroit business owners looking to explore new markets in a stagnant economy should come to the Indian Business Forum on June 9 at TechTown to learn how to overcome cultural differences that inhibit business interactions.
Foley Partner Appointed Deputy General Counsel of United States Department of Commerce
Foley & Lardner LLP announced today that Nicole Y. Lamb-Hale, managing partner of the firm’s Detroit office and member of its Bankruptcy & Business Reorganizations and Finance & Financial Services Practices, and Automotive Industry Team has been appointed Deputy General Counsel of the United States Department of Commerce.
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DIA Chronicles
The Founders Junior Council of the Detroit Institute of Arts held a cocktail reception on May 28 that included a tour of the Norman Rockwell exhibit.
PGW Automotive Glass Improves Fuel Efficiency Up to 6 MPG, Reduces CO2 Emissions for PHEV
The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Pittsburgh Glass Works LLC (PGW) recently concluded testing which shows that Sungate(R) EP automotive glass improves fuel efficiency and cabin comfort in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
American Axle & Manufacturing Regains Compliance with NYSE Listing Standard
American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (AAM), which is traded as AXL on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), announced that AAM was notified by the NYSE that it has regained compliance with NYSE’s continued listing standards.
Wayne State University Opens State-of-the-science Training Center Facility
The Wayne State University School of Medicine this week celebrates the opening of the Richard J. Mazurek, M.D., Medical Education Commons, the new education hub for Michigan physicians and the new face of the nation’s largest single-campus medical college.
Dow Captures Solar Power with Fluid Technology
he Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW) is shedding light on Concentrating Solar Power systems (CSP) with DOWTHERM(TM) A heat transfer fluids which collect, transport and store solar generated he
General Motors, Penske Outline Proposed Deal for Purchase of Saturn
General Motors Corp. and Penske Automotive Group today confirmed details of a proposed transaction under which Penske would acquire the Saturn brand.
Introduction of ‘Pure Michigan’ Funding Package Hailed by Tourism Industry
Legislation introduced to provide ongoing funding for the “Pure Michigan” campaign is being applauded by all segments of Michigan’s tourism industry; this state’s third largest industry.
More Than 400 Participate in Detroit Workshop to Help Manufacturers
Representatives from hundreds of Michigan companies participated in a day-long regional manufacturing outreach workshop at the MGM Grand.
Different by Design: New Exhibit to Explore Edsel Ford’s Style & Design
Certain moments in the history of the automobile design industry are well documented: The production of the 1927 Ford Model A, the introduction of the 1932 Ford V-8 Cabriolet and the launch of the sensational 1935 Lincoln Zephyr.
Thomas M. Cooley Law School to Open Campus in Ann Arbor
One hundred thirty-eight years after Thomas M. Cooley became the University of Michigan Law School’s second dean, the law school that bears his name announced that it will open a campus in Ann Arbor in September 2009.
Wayne State University Researcher Defines New Treatment Intervention Recommendations for Mini-strokes
A Wayne State University School of Medicine professor has co-written a new definition and national treatment recommendations for transient ischemic attacks (TIA) or “mini-strokes.”
Landmark Entrepreneurship Initiative Launched at Wayne State University’s “TechTown”
A historic entrepreneurship initiative unfolding in the heart of the Motor City may become a model that can cities nationwide can replicate to spur America’s economic recovery over the next decade.
Ford and Hydro-Quebec Work Together to Develop Electric Vehicles
Ford Motor Company and Hydro-Québec announced today that Hydro-Québec has joined a North America wide demonstration and research program on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Greektown Casino-Hotel Increases Revenue 7.2 Percent While Detroit Gaming Market Decreases 4.2 Percent
While the overall gaming market in Detroit saw a 4.2 percent decline in May, Greektown Casino-Hotel bucked the trend once again with a stunning 7.2 percent year-over-year revenue increase for the month.
