September-October 2010
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All Together Now
With an ample supply of empty office space in metro Detroit, why would a nonprofit organization build a $17.5-million headquarters in Farmington Hills?
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To Heaven and Back
Early retirement sounded great when John Bornoty sold his Royal Oak-based technology company in 2005. But he soon found out the easy life was harder than it looked.
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A Detroit Homearama
After years of mismanagement, new residential projects initiated by the Detroit Housing Commission rate among the best in the country. That’s a significant accomplishment for a city on the rebound, especially given Detroit’s historical resistance to partnering with the private sector.
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Trip the Light Fantastic
An international lighting designer, Ron Harwood often uses metro Detroit as a test lab for enhancing consumer encounters around the world, whether at luxury shopping malls, entertainment venues, public squares, or college campuses.
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Disheveled & Debonair
A man should never appear completely perfect. The goal is to create something unique that conveys a sense of personal identity in a subtle, yet memorable, way.
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A Program Ahead of Its Time
What happens when a product is so advanced that few people understand it? “It’s pretty lonely out there,” says Donald R. Fullenwider, president of Plymouth-based City Simulation, which offers advanced virtual reality programs to businesses, municipalities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
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Power Bandits
In overgrown, trash-lined alleys all over Detroit — even in upscale West Bloomfield Township, and as far away as the Upper Peninsula — a potentially lethal and expensive cat-and-mouse game is playing out every day at a steep cost to residents and businesses.
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Golden Boy
When the kit finally arrived, Richard Golden couldn’t have been happier. At 12 years old, he was selling greeting cards door-to-door and doing a brisk business. Never mind that his father, Donald Golden, was operating a successful chain of optical stores in the late 1950s. The son, it seems, was on to something.
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Three Times a Charm
Tiger left fielder Goose Goslin wanted nothing more than to get back to the Book-Cadillac Hotel, have a cup of coffee, and relax.
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30 In Their Thirties — 2010
We asked our readers to nominate regional business leaders in their 30s who were making a mark in Michigan and around the world. From the latest technological advances to financial services to bankruptcy reorganizations to health care initiatives, the executives on the following pages all share a passion for growth, teamwork, and ingenuity.
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Quantum Leap
A driven executive, Bruce Burton got a lesson in opportunity watching his daughter swim laps at Cranbrook Kingswood in Bloomfield Hills. A mechanical engineer, inventor, and multi-patent holder, Burton noted that his daughter needed assistance pacing herself during practice. He realized that it would also help her performance if she knew her position relative to the other competitive swimmers.
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On the Waterfront
David Johnson’s office at Bay Harbor in northern Michigan is situated amid an oasis of 550 luxury homes overlooking Lake Michigan; a well-appointed hotel; a yacht club; and three, nine-hole golf courses. “From Memorial Day to Labor Day, I’m at Bay Harbor 50 percent of the time,” says Johnson, chairman of Victor International in Auburn Hills.
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60+ Top Metro Detroit Restaurants for Business
Restaurants are among the most difficult businesses to operate. In addition to creating, ordering, preparing, and serving memorable meals day in and day out, multiple tasks must be overseen and dealt with at a moment’s notice. What’s more, consider the unpredictable nature of health inspectors, food critics, state and local regulators, suppliers, and distributors. A […]
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Winds of Fortune
Over the past several months, everyone from media personalities to politicians has expounded on a long list of economic problems that have arguably created a one-state depression in Michigan. Most of us have heard the gloomy statistics so many times, we could recite them in our sleep.
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The Economic Herd
Like the animal kingdom, human behavior can be somewhat primitive.
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Fash Bash at Saks Fifth Avenue
On August 26, Saks Fifth Avenue at the Somerset Collection in Troy along with the Detroit Institute of Arts Founders Junior Council presented Fash Bash. The event, which drew more than 400 people, included a strolling cocktail party inside Saks Fifth Avenue, an outdoor fashion show, and an afterglow.
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R.A.N.'s Chip in for Charity
The inaugural R.A.N. Family of Services “Chip in for Charity” golf tournament was held on Sept. 10 at St. John’s Golf Course in Plymouth Township. Supporting numerous charities via Internet support and fundraising services, the event included a silent auction, dinner, and awards ceremony.
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College for Creative Studies and The Hamilton Room
The Dali Restaurant Group along with Paul Mobley Studio celebrated the first anniversary of The Hamilton Room in downtown Birmingham on Sept. 10. The evening offered an unveiling of Dom Perignon’s newest collection, a Tribute to Andy Warhol, to benefit the College for Creative Studies in Detroit.
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Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association at Troy's Melting Pot
The First Annual Michigan versus California Wine Tasting, co-hosted by the Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association and the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame, was held at The Melting Pot in Troy on Sept. 13. The evening affair included several celebrity judges such as Emanuel Steward, Eli Zaret, Frank Beckmann, Ray Lane, and Ken Kal.
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Ovation Yacht's French Wine Cruise
White and red wines were front and center during the Ovation Yacht’s Falling For French Wine cruise on Sept. 15. Setting sail from Jefferson Beach Marina in St. Clair Shores, more than 200 people sampled exceptional vintages from Eagle Eye Imports and Vintage Village Fine Wine while enjoying such menu items as beef tenderloin and Coq au Vin.
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Simply Irresistible at Art Van in Royal Oak
A benefit for the Horatio Williams Foundation, which supplies uniforms for underprivileged inner city students, was held on Sept. 19 at the Art Van furniture store in Royal Oak. The evening event included fashion from Saks Fifth Avenue, a strolling dinner, and some of Hour Detroit’s Best Dressed honorees including Norman Yatooma, Vivian Pickard, Monica Del Signore, Rhonda Walker, and Tom Schoenith.
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Just For Kids Michigan at Indianwood Country Club
More than 200 golfers and supporters helped raise $1 million on Sept. 21 to benefit Just For Kids Michigan, a children’s foundation in Northville that provides support for sick kids and their families through Mott’s Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor. In support of the foundation, a golf tournament and reception was held at Indianwood Golf and Country Club in Lake Orion.
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CHASS 40th Anniversary Benefit Gala
The Community Health and Social Services Center in southwest Detroit celebrated its 40th anniversary on Sept. 24 at the MGM Grand Detroit. The evening included a cocktail party, sit-down dinner, live auction, and entertainment by La Insparicion small combo. Funds raised from the event benefit the Center’s mission of providing health care to uninsured patients in Detroit
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Cattle Baron's Shoot Out
The American Cancer Society debuted the Cattle Baron’s Shoot Out on Sept. 24 at The Huntsman Hunt Club in Dryden, near Metamora. A prelude to the 2010 Cattle Baron’s Ball on Nov. 6 at the Shotwell-Gustafson Pavilion at Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester Hills, the Shoot Out offered sporting clays competitions, fly fishing, off-road driving, and a buffet lunch.
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Vine & Dine at Cranbrook Institute of Science
The Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber hosted Vine & Dine 2010 at the Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills on Sept. 22. The evening included a strolling dinner and wine tasting along with a fashion show by Figo, The Claymore Shop, Roma Sposa, Optik; among others. The evening benefited Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan.
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The Parade Co. Distinguished Grand Jester's Reception
The Reserve in Birmingham served as the setting for The Parade Co.’s Distinguished Grand Jester’s Reception on Sept. 28. A prelude event to the 84th America’s Thanksgiving Parade on Nov. 25, more than 100 people attended the Reserve celebration of the 27th Anniversary of the Distinguished Clown Corps.
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Hummer Party ay Bayview Yacht Club
As a conclusion to its regatta season on Sept. 23, the Bayview Yacht Club in Detroit hosted its 4th Annual Hummer Party. The evening included a buffet dinner, hummers, and a judging competition. Participating establishments included Dooley’s (the overall winner), along with the Detroit Athletic Club, Centaur, and several other venues.
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Detroit Uncorked at Ford Conference Center
More than 400 people attended Detroit Uncorked on Sept. 24 at the Ford Conference & Event Center in Dearborn. The strolling affair, which included more than 300 wines, hand-crafted beers, and a silent auction, was hosted by the Detroit Wine Organization in partnership with Ford Motor Co., and benefited The Children’s Center in Detroit.
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Hospice of Michigan Crystal Rose Ball
More than 400 people attended the 25th Annual Crystal Rose Ball hosted by Hospice of Michigan on Oct. 2 at the Masonic Temple in Detroit. The black tie affair included a strolling cocktail reception, sit-down dinner, and live music. Evening honorees included Maggie Allesee, Art Van Furniture, Carolyn Cassin, and Peggy Dzierzawski.
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This Time is Different
These could possibly be the most expensive four words spoken — or mumbled — by an investor.
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CRUSH Wine and Food Classic at the Somerset Collection
The Children’s Leukemia Foundation held the 2010 CRUSH Wine and Food Classic at Somerset Collection South on Sept. 25. The evening included a strolling dinner of culinary creations by local and national chefs, award-winning wine from The Darioush Winery in Napa, and an afterglow.
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Nino Salvaggio Charitable Foundation for Children in Need
On Oct. 1, the 4th Annual Charity Event was hosted by the Nino Salvaggio Charitable Foundation for Children in Need at Andiamo in Warren. The event, which included a strolling dinner, raised funds for several area charities, including Wigs 4 Kids, Vision Hope, Liberty Kids, Alternatives For Girls, Cop 4 Kids, Stand Up For Kids, and The Alhambra’s.
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Turnaround Expert Jim McTevia Tackles Government Debt
Jim McTevia, managing member of McTevia & Associates, a management and financial consulting firm in Bingham Farms, has warned for years that the federal deficit is unsustainable. McTevia recently authored his second book, “The Culture of Debt: How a Once-Proud Society Mortgaged its Future,” which explains how America racked up a gross national debt of $13.6 trillion, and what can be done to reduce it.
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Oktoberfest on the Ovation Yacht
Infinity and Ovation Yacht Tours winded down its summer cruise series with an Oktoberfest celebration on Oct. 1. The evening cruise on the Detroit River included premium beers from around the world, a strolling dinner, and entertainment by Brian Lorente.
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TiECon Midwest 2010, Michigan's largest entrepreneurial conference, is Oct. 28-29 in Dearborn
Organized by the Detroit Chapter of TiE (Talents, Ideas, Enterprise) at The Henry
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University of Michigan's Zell Lurie Institute Awards $40,000 in Grants and Accelerator Office Space
2010 Dare to Dream Recipients Include Business Concepts in Healthcare, eCommerce, Social Media and Information Technology
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Norman Yatooma's Charity Poker Party
The Corner Bar at the Townsend Hotel in downtown Birmingham was the setting for Attorney Norman Yatooma’s Texas Hold ‘Em Charity Tournament on Sept. 30. The event, which included a strolling supper, benefitted Yatooma’s Foundation for the Kids.
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Ricardo's New Heavy-fuel Wolverine3 Engine Takes Flight at Nevada Test Site
Van Buren Township company completed its first in-flight tests at the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Nevada National Security Site
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Former president of Poland Lech Walesa to visit Wayne State University during landmark Detroit visit
With the opening of “Solidarnosc: Poland’s Struggle for Freedom” at Wayne State’s Walter P. Reuther Library, Walesa marks the 30th anniversary of the Solidarity trade union
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Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan Launches “Community Foundation Challenge
The “Community Foundation Challenge – Emergency Food & Shelter” will also raise much-needed public awareness of the historic high demand for emergency food and shelter in the region
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Former Canadian First Lady Margaret Trudeau Visits Dearborn
The Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Fund at the University of Michigan Depression Center hosted a luncheon at The Henry in Dearborn on Oct. 14 featuring former First Lady of Canada Margaret Trudeau. Trudeau, who helped raise money for the Prechter research fund, addressed her own struggles with bipolar disorder along with her message of hope.
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Global Consulting in Farmington Hills Launches Job Search Seminars
Global Consulting launches new job-search division and hosts two find-your-dream-job seminars this fall
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Transformation Detroit
The Detroit Regional News Hub hosted a media tour of metro Detroit Oct. 13-14 called “Concept Cars to Concept Cities.” In addition to a panel discussion with business and foundation leaders, participants visited Detroit’s downtown and Midtown districts, Wayne State University, cruised the Detroit River on the Ovation yacht, and enjoyed a closing dinner at Meadowbrook Hall in Rochester Hills.
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Plugging In Detroit
The Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor hosted “The Business of Plugging In” in Detroit Oct. 12-14 at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. The event, which focused on new and emerging alternative fuel propulsion systems, included news conference, plenary and breakout sessions, and a VIP dinner at the Detroit Science Center.
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Microsoft Drives the Future of In-Vehicle Infotainment with Ford, Fiat, and other OEMs
Release of Windows Embedded Automotive 7 gives car makers and suppliers the tools, technology and flexibility to transform the in-car experience
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The Capital Grille is hosting a gourmet dinner on Friday, Oct. 22 to support Yatooma’s Foundation For The Kids
The event begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction, followed by the Capital Grille-prepared dinner featuring Mercer Estates Winery selections
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UM-Dearborn’s iLabs eCities recognizes 55 Michigan communities developing a positive entrepreneurial climate
East Lansing, Grand Rapids, Jonesville, Livonia, Meridian Township, Tecumseh, and Wixom, have been identified as the top performing communities at fostering entrepreneurial growth and economic development
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Detroit-based NextCAT Inc. to commercialize biodiesel technology developed at Wayne State University
Detroit-based company, announced that it has received $250,000 in seed funding from the Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund
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General Motors Offers Green Options for Business Fleets
Detroit Automaker showcases CNG vehicle for the first time at Green Fleet Conference
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Wine Grape Researchers Gather in Traverse City
Leading viticulturists from across U.S. will review progress of multi-state initiative
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Annual Dream Maker’s Gala Hosted by DTE Energy on Oct. 21
Six deserving students will receive a $1,000 scholarship to the college or trade school of their choice, a wardrobe makeover and a laptop for their continuing education
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Beaumont Hospital Opens New Ernst Cardiovascular Center
Specialty clinics offer advanced and minimally invasive treatments for heart valve disease, atrial fibrillation, and more
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Chrysler Group Begins Fiat Dealer Appointment Process in U.S.
The dealers appointed in this first phase have plans in place and will be ready to take orders for the Fiat 500 subcompact
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China Bridge & Honigman Collaborate to Spur Chinese Business Development
The alliance combines the legal depth, professional experience and business knowledge of both organizations
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Ford Announces Executive Retirements, Makes Key Management Changes to Support One Ford Plan
Ford announces the retirements of two company officers as well as a series of executive appointments
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Pentastar V-6 Set to Roll Out Across Broad Range of New Chrysler Vehicles
Significant cost savings realized with shift from seven engines to one V-6 engine
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Bayview Mackinac Race contributed $25 million to Michigan’s economy this summer
The 86th annual “Pure Michigan Bayview Mackinac Race” included 206 sailboats racing from Port Huron to Mackinac Island in July
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March of Dimes' 2010 Signature Chef's Auction
The Henry in Dearborn served as the setting for the March of Dimes’ 2010 Signature Chef’s Auction on Oct. 18. The fundraiser for babies, which honored Mike and Suzy Fezzey, included a live and silent auction, awards ceremony, and culinary creations from numerous eateries, including The Henry, Zazios, Steve and Rocky’s, Slow’s BBQ, and D’Amato’s.
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View from the Top: Detroit's Parade Co. Marches On
Tony Michaels, president and CEO of The Parade Co. in Detroit, wants the annual America’s Thanksgiving Parade to be broadcast nationally to widen its appeal. He also is expanding the organization’s ties with businesses, nonprofit groups, and educators in what is a challenging economy.
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Eisbrenner Public Relations Celebrates 25 Years, Announces Detroit Office
Eisbrenner Public Relations is marking its 25th anniversary by opening an office in downtown Detroit’s TechTown.
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Dow Corning CEO Calls for Focus on Green Manufacturing
Incentives, public-private partnerships key to green growth.
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Ford Posts Third Quarter 2010 Net Income of $1.7 Billion; Announces Additional Debt Reduction Actions
Ford Motor Company today reported third quarter net income of $1.7 billion, or 43 cents per share.
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TiECon Midwest 2010 Unveils List of Elite Entrepreneurs: TiE20 Winners
Winners from California, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Texas.
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Stryker Announces Definitive Agreement to Acquire the Neurovascular Division of Boston Scientific
$1.5 Billion Acquisition of Boston Scientific Neurovascular gives Stryker a global leader in the approximately $900 million worldwide neurovascular market
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Treetops Resort in northern Michigan hires Barry Owens as General Manager
As Garland Resort’s GM, Owens achieved AAA’s highest hospitality rating
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GM Announces Actions to Reduce Leverage by $11 Billion
Actions expected to reduce net interest cost and preferred dividends by $0.5 billion per year
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Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital Hosts Week-Long Art Celebration
Healing Arts Program Nov. 15-19 features live artist demonstrations, photography and art classes, and live jazz and orchestra concerts.
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APACC's Salute to Excellence Award Dinner
On Oct. 7, the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce held its Salute to Excellence Award Dinner at the MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit. The event included a networking reception, dinner, awards program, and a keynote address by Wally Tsuha, chairman and CEO of Saturn Electronics & Engineering Inc. in Rochester Hills.
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CATCH Night of Champions at The Henry
Former Detroit Tigers manager Sparky Anderson’s Charity for Children (CATCH) held its annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Oct. 13 at The Henry in Dearborn. The Night of Champions event, which included a dinner and live auction, honored Vicki and Tom Celani, Ted Lindsay, and Tom Wilson.
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Rugiero Casino Royale at the Italian American Club
The Antonio Rugiero Diabetes Research Fund at the University of Michigan held its 1st annual Rugiero Casino Royale on Oct. 30 at the Italian American Club in Livonia. The fundraiser included a strolling dinner, a silent auction, gaming, a raffle, entertainment, and a tribute to the late Antonio Rugiero Sr., who lived with type 2 diabetes for nearly 40 years.
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Three Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Quality Programs Approved for National Research
More than $2.7 million in funding approved to evaluate effectiveness
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Detroit Mayor Dave Bing will serve in prestigious fellowship at Urban Land Institute
The mission of the ULI Rose Center is to encourage and support excellence in land use decision making
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TiECon Midwest 2010 at The Henry
On Oct. 27, the Detroit chapter of TiE (Talent, Ideas, Enterprise) hosted a networking reception prior to TiECon Midwest 2010, Michigan’s largest entrepreneurial conference (Oct. 28-29), at The Henry in Dearborn. The conference included a keynote address by Sandy Baruah, president and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber.
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Celani Family Vineyard's Restaurant Owner Tasting
On Oct. 11, Vicki and Tom Celani hosted area restaurant owners and their executives staffs for a wine tasting in Bloomfield Township. The evening affair included Celani Family Vineyards’ Ardore, Chardonnay, ‘Vincenza’ Rose, Tenacious, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Guests also sampled a selection of fine wines from the Celani’s cellar.
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Henry Ford Macomb Hospital Ambassador Club
The Ambassador Club hosted its 6th annual Showtime event on Sept. 29 at Penna’s of Sterling Heights. The evening benefited Henry Ford Macomb Hospital’s Neighbors Caring for Neighbors Clinics, Trauma Services, and Outpatient Rehabilitation facilities.
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Brother Rice Business Alliance at Ocean Prime
The Brother Rice Business Alliance held one of its three annual fundraisers benefiting Brother Rice High School in Birmingham on Oct. 12 at Ocean Prime in Troy. The networking reception included a keynote address by Andrew (Rocky) Raczkowski, the Republican candidate for the 9th Congressional District (Oakland County).
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Meijer to Install Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at Area Stores
Detroit and Grand Rapids-Area Meijer Stores First To Receive New Technology That Allows Customer to Charge Electric Vehicles at No Cost
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Wayne State Researcher receives $3.4 million from NIH to test psychological therapies for fibromyalgia
Wayne State Researcher receives nearly $3.4 million from National Institutes of Health to test psychological therapies for fibromyalgia
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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Invests $537 million in the state
The Blues subsidizes health coverage to keep it affordable for seniors and people transitioning from employer-sponsored coverage
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SOCK Dinner for Detroit's Capuchin Soup Kitchen
On Oct. 22, the Capuchin Soup Kitchen held its annual SOCK (Support Our Capuchin Kitchen) Dinner at the Detroit Marriott Hotel at the Renaissance Center. The evening included a silent auction, strolling cocktail party, sit-down dinner, and Afterglow.
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Art Van Furniture — Detroit Meets New York
The Big Apple was on full display at Art Van Furniture’s fundraiser for the Henry Ford Health System on Oct. 21. The evening event, which coincided with Art Van Furniture’s 51st anniversary, included a strolling supper, live entertainment, and displays of New York.
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Camp Mak-A-Dream at the Somerset Collection
The Michigan Chapter of the Friends of Camp Mak-A-Dream held a benefit called Cookies N’ Dreams on Oct. 28 at the Somerset Collection in Troy. The evening affair raised funds to send children and young adults with cancer to a cost free camp in Montana. Camp Mak-A-Dream was founded by Michigan residents Sylvia and Harry Granader.
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Chrysler Group LLC Reports an Operating Profit of $239 Million in the Third Quarter
Automaker Revises Guidance Upward for Full Year 2010
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Stokas Realty Advisors, Bieri Company Form Stokas Bieri Real Estate
Two local retail powerhouses become one
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BorgWarner Expects $2.3 Billion in New Business for 2011-2013
Demand for environmentally friendly technologies, such as gasoline and diesel turbochargers, is expected to continue to drive strong growth
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Michigan Economy at Two Year High in September
Report From Comerica Bank’s Michigan Economic Activity Index
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“Jeff Daniels & Friends” Holiday Concert Returns To Celebrate Music Made In Michigan
Fifth annual holiday tradition continues as Daniels showcases Michigan musicians
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GM achieves third consecutive quarter of profitability and positive cash flow
Net income of $2.0 billion, earnings per share of $1.20
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ROUSH CleanTech Powers Up Multiple Industries with Propane-Powered Vehicles
Wright & Filippis in Rochester Hills switches to propane and showcases decision at Expo
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Lottery Dreams Aren’t All About Spending Sprees
New Study from Livonia-based Market Strategies International says most winners would pay off debt
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DTE Energy Lays Groundwork for SmartCurrents Program
New meters to be installed in north Oakland County communities
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Michigan Tourism Bounces Up in Third Quarter, Reports Comerica Bank
Michigan Tourism Index rose two points in the third quarter of 2010, to a level of 93
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Bob Seger Saxman Alto Reed's Allstar Concert to Support Metro Detroit Unemployed
Jeff Daniels, Alto Reed, Mitch Ryder, & Motown Great Martha Reeves Set To “Rock For Jobs.”
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Video Gamer Teaches GMC Vehicle to ‘Talk’
Patented technology provides customers real-time vehicle health check
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Chevrolet to Compete in 2012 IndyCar Series with New V-6 Engine
Returns to Open-Wheel Competition as Engine Maker in Partnership with Team Penske
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Thomson Reuters of Ann Arbor Announces Top U.S. Hospitals for Heart Care
Five Michigan Hospitals Make the List
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Daimler Financial Services in Farmington Hills Changes its Name
New company will continue as captive financial services provider for Mercedes-Benz USA, smart USA, and Daimler Trucks North America
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Michigan Sports Hall of Fame All Star Online Auction Nov. 15-21
Holiday Shopping for Sports Fans to Feature Unique Experiences
With Gordie Howe, Joe Schmidt, and Many Others -
Michigan Governor-elect Snyder names senior staff
Dennis Muchmore chief of staff, Geralyn Lasher director of communications, and Michael Gadola legal affairs director
