Press & Media

 
AHP Announces New Addition to the Bay City Office

JOHNSON PORTABLES COMPLETES INSPIRING JOPLIN PROJECT
Johnson Portables has completed a 31,000 square-foot portable health-care facility following the devastation of the May 22nd tornado outbreak in Joplin, Missouri. The facility, provided for a regional health system, was ordered on June 30th and manufacturing began immediately.
By August 18th, 10,000 square-feet was completed, offering immediate emergency and trauma care. An additional 10,000 square-feet was completed on September 6th and the final 11,000 square-feet was installed and operational by October 3rd.
The portable health facility is now fully-functioning, offering Emergency Dept., Surgical support, Main Entrance and Patient Waiting Area, access corridors to Cath Lab, CT Scan, Dialysis, and MRI; ICU, Pharmacy, Nuclear Lab, and Patient Care Rooms.
The facility is built to meet applicable U.S. standards of care and provides a safe and effective space for the hospital to continue its care. The 31,000 square-foot hospital will be used for nine to twelve months while a prefabricated component hospital is erected on site.
Additional projects for the company include a sterilization facility in Galveston, Texas (in response to Hurricane Ike) as well as several pending projects in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Canada.
“Our MetaSpace facility is fully adaptable for unique scenarios and various global applications,” stated Brian Johnson, President of Serenus Johnson Portables.
For more information, Brian Johnson can be reached at 989.839.2324 or online at www.johnsonportables.com.

State of Michigan Awards Special Tribute for Catholic Federal Credit Union’s Msgr. Forbes Scholarship Fund
Catholic Federal Credit Union’s Msgr. Forbes Scholarship Fund was recently honored by the State of Michigan for reaching the one million dollar milestone. Since 1982, the scholarship committee has awarded more than $1.1 million dollars and has given out over 2,300 scholarships to students who want to begin or continue their education.
Senator Roger Kahn attended a special ceremony to present Catholic Federal Credit Union this special tribute. During the presentation, Senator Kahn recognized these awards have no doubt had a valuable impact on the ability of local students to continue their education.
Established in 1956, Catholic Federal Credit Union has offices in Bay City, Essexville, Saginaw and Vassar.

Medical Billing and Coding and the Pharmacy Technician Programs offered at SVSU, Winter 2012
Saginaw Valley State University-Office of Continuing Education and Professional Development is currently accepting registrations for the Medical Billing and Coding and the Pharmacy Technician classes. The medical field is the fastest growing industry in the area.
These classes will prepare participants to enter the medical field. Medical Billing and Coding Training program is a 50 hour course that teaches the skills and information needed to start this career. This program introduces the newest guidelines for medical billing as of January 2012.
The program begins on Saturday, February 11, 2012 and runs through April 14, 2012. Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam training is a 50 hour training to prepare one for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. The program will meet twice a week starting on Tuesday evening, February 7, 2012 and will run through Tuesday evening, March 27, 2012.
Both programs are offered at $1199 and include all the textbooks for the programs. Graduates of the program will be presented with a completion certificate.
To register or obtain more information about these programs, contact Missy 989.964.4048, email continuinged@svsu.edu or visit www.svsu.edu/ocepd.

ICBA and 1st State Bank Urge Consumers: Go Local By Banking Locally with Your Community Bank
As many of the nation’s consumers consider switching banks, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and 1st State Bank of the Great Lakes Bay Region are reminding them that now is the perfect time to join the “go local” movement by banking locally with their local community bank.
By doing so, consumers will realize the litany of benefits that come with banking with a community bank, including a relationship-based banking experience, superior customer service and the pride that comes with reinvesting in one’s community.
“By going local and banking locally with your community bank, consumers can make a real difference in the lives of their neighbors and the future of their community,” said Sal Marranca, ICBA chairman and president and CEO of Cattaraugus County Bank, Little Valley, N.Y. “They’ll be making a hometown investment they can be proud of. After all, the money they deposit in their community bank will be reinvested in ways that drive their local economy, such as in the form of loans to local residents who want to buy a home or to small business owners who are looking to open shop on Main Street.”
As small businesses themselves, community banks only thrive when their customers and communities do the same, so taking care of their customers and looking out for the best interest of their community is ingrained in the way they conduct their business each and every day. And when consumers call their local community bank, they’ll be reassured to know that they won’t be talking to someone halfway across the globe. Instead, they will be talking with their community banker who lives and works in the same community they do.
Whether located in small towns, suburbia or big-city neighborhoods, community banks improve America’s communities by funding nearly 60 percent of all small businesses under $1 million and by using local dollars to help families purchase homes, buy a car, finance college and build financial security. By driving local economies and creating local jobs, community banks are an integral part of our financial system and play a key role in our nation’s economic recovery.
Of the more than 7,000 community banks across the country, nearly 5,000 are ICBA members. Representing more than 23,000 locations nationwide and employing more than 280,000 Americans, ICBA members hold more than $1 trillion in assets, $900 billion in deposits, and $700 billion in loans to consumers, small businesses and the agricultural community.
“ICBA and 1st State Bank want all Americans to know that their community bank is not only invested in their hometown, but also in them, as customers,” Rick Goedert, President and CEO of 1st State Bank said. “Our doors are open, and we welcome consumers to go local and see the community bank difference for themselves.”
To find your local community bank, visit ICBA’s community bank locator at www.icba.org/locate. Simply type in your Zip code and the app will show you all the community banks in your area.
You can even download free ICBA locator apps for your iPhone, Android or Blackberry.

Sixth Cohort of Michigan Certified Public Manager Program to Begin on April 13, 2012
The Michigan Certified Public Manager program is for elected officials and managers/supervisors in government, nonprofit, public utilities and education who are interested in state and local policy issues and wish to strengthen their knowledge and skills in public service.
Graduates of the program will earn CPM® designation and be eligible to become a fellow of the American Academy of Certified Public Managers.
The program is currently accepting registrations and the classes will begin on April 13, 2012 and takes a total of 300 hours to complete. Eighteen of the twenty-three classes are conveniently offered online. Saginaw Valley State University is the only university in the state of Michigan to offer this nationally accredited and nationally recognized program.
To register or obtain more information about these programs, contact Missy 989.964.4048, email continuinged@svsu.edu or visit www.svsu.edu/ocepd.

PARTNER AT ANDREWS HOOPER PAVLIK PLC APPOINTED TO AICPA EXPERT PANEL
Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC (AHP) is proud to announce that Randy Morse, CPA, has been appointed to the American Institute of CPA’s Depository Institutions Expert Panel. The Panel, which typically meets on a quarterly basis, is comprised of a select few of the financial industry’s leading professionals from across the country.
The objective of the Panel is to assist those working in the industry by identifying issues that need to be addressed, providing accounting and reporting guidance and influencing pronouncements issued by the various accounting standard setting bodies. While the Panel does not issue authoritative guidance itself, the panel interacts with the standard setters and provides input on a variety of issues.
According to Bill Mulders, AHP’s managing partner, “Having Randy appointed to such a distinguished panel is an honor. It demonstrates Randy’s level of industry expertise and AHP’s commitment to increase our clients’ wealth of knowledge and resources by being experts in their industry.”
Morse has over 21 years of auditing, accounting, and financial reporting experience. He leads the firm’s financial institution practice and has been with AHP since its inception in 1993. He began his career with Ernst & Whinney in Little Rock, Ark., and transferred to the Saginaw office of Ernst & Young in 1992.
AHP was founded in 1993 with a mission to provide clients with the experience and resources of a large, progressive firm while delivering traditional services at a locally accessible level. Today, with six offices and a team of over 100, AHP provides a full suite of professional services to clients throughout Michigan and beyond.
While expanding their service offerings to include investment planning, business and IT consulting and benefits administration, AHP has become the firm of choice for businesses and individuals looking for professional advisors focused on their success.
For more information, visit www.ahpplc.com.

BUBEN RECEIVES CFE CREDENTIAL
Yeo & Yeo, CPAs is pleased to announce that Amy R. Buben, CPA, CFE, has been accredited as a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). A CFE is a specialist trained in the prevention, detection and deterrence of fraud. All CFEs must meet the rigorous criteria for admission to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Over 55,000 CFEs are actively fighting fraud today.
Buben, a manager in the firm’s Saginaw office, provides business consulting services and is a member of the Business Valuation and Litigation Support team. She is an Ambassador of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and a board member of Junior Achievement of Northeast Michigan. She resides in Freeland.
Yeo & Yeo, P.C. is a Top 100 certified public accounting and consulting firm that serves individuals, businesses, not-for-profit, education and government entities. Over 175 employees in eight offices throughout Michigan provide professional accounting business solutions. Other Yeo & Yeo affiliates include Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting, LLC and Affiliated Medical Billing. Offices are located in Saginaw (headquarters), Alma, Ann Arbor, Flint, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Marlette and Midland.

The Wirt-Rivette Group and Mann Construction are Pleased to Announce a New Development Project in Vassar, MI
The Wirt-Rivette Group and Mann Construction have partnered for a development project located at 946 West Huron, Vassar.
Mann Construction is providing the design/build for the 9,026 sq ft Dollar General building. The Wirt-Rivette Group is providing the financing for the project. The cost of the project is expected to exceed $820,000.
The Dollar General store is scheduled to open by the end of 2011 or early 2012. The parcel adjacent to the Dollar General building is available for sale.
The Vassar Dollar General is the third Dollar General The Wirt-Rivette Group and Mann Construction have partnered for the financing and design/build.
The Wirt-Rivette Group provides equipment financing, property financing, property management and consulting solutions for businesses throughout Michigan and nationally. The main office is located at 3520 Davenport Avenue Saginaw, MI
and can be reached at 989.892.0658.
Mann Construction provides general contractor, construction management and design/build services. Mann Construction is located at 230 East Oak Harrison, MI 48625 and can be reached at 989.539.1720.

Catholic Federal Credit Union Employees Recognized
The National Association of Federal Credit Union’s recently inducted the following staff at Catholic Federal Credit Union to the Quarter Century Honor Roll in recognition for their more than 25 years of faithful service and dedication to the credit union community. Their selfless contributions have made credit unions a lasting American institution.
Pat Backus, Euclid, Bay City Branch Manager, 27 years
Marcia Flores, Information Systems Manager, 26 years
Karen Knippel, Accounting Representative, 33 years
Pam Lovay, Member Services, 26 years
Mary Myczkowiak, Senior Accounting Representative, 26 years
Established in 1956, Catholic Federal Credit Union has offices in Bay City, Essexville, Saginaw and Vassar.

SVSU Scholar Honored for Global Business Advancement
Saginaw Valley State University’s George Puia was named a Fellow of the Association for Global Business Advancement (AGBA), becoming the tenth fellow to be named since the group's founding in 2000. The Dow Chemical Company Centennial Chair in Global Business at SVSU, Puia received the distinguished life achievement award for his total body of scholarly work.
Puia has more than 50 publications on global business in the past 18 years. His articles and case studies are widely cited and used by students and scholars worldwide. At SVSU, Puia serves as the associate dean for faulty research and external relations in the College of Business and Management, and directs the school's global business initiative, a program that helps internationalize students and businesses.
Prior to his appointment at SVSU, Puia was a member of the graduate faculty at Indiana State University. He holds a Ph.D. in strategic management from the University of Kansas with concentrations in international business and research methods.
With more than 1,000 members based in at least 50 countries, AGBA aims to help academics and scholars at business schools across developing countries connect with the western world for mutual benefit. Through this collaboration, the AGBA hopes to accelerate the process of globalization by furnishing ample opportunities to scholars in emerging countries to get recognition, disseminate new knowledge and assert themselves on the global stage.
Puia received the honor at the association's annual conference in Dalian, China Saturday, Sept. 17 with scholars from the University of Memphis, Texas A & M University, and the Thunderbird School of Global Management.

LOCAL NONPROFITS TEAM UP TO PREVENT CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT IN THE COMMUNITY CAN Council Saginaw County and the Nathan Weidner Children’s Advocacy Center (NWCAC) merge to become CAN Council Great Lakes Bay Region
CAN Council Saginaw County has announced that it is merging with Bay County’s Nathan Weidner Children’s Advocacy Center (NWCAC). CAN Council Great Lakes Bay Region, the new entity, will strengthen programs and services that help prevent child abuse and neglect in the region.
“This is a major step to reach more children and families in our communities,” said Suzanne Greenberg, CAN Council Great Lakes Bay Region president and CEO. “Our organizations have had their own respective programs, but coming together under one organization will increase our ability to provide top-notch prevention, intervention and advocacy for children in our communities.”
In 2010, CAN Council Saginaw County and the NWCAC provided services to 4,050 children, families and professionals in Saginaw and Bay counties. Services included forensic interviewing, medical examinations, court advocacy, personal safety education, infant safety education and professional development.
“Those services were tailored to each community’s needs, and that will not change,” Greenberg said. “We are looking forward to enhancing and expanding theses crucial programs and services that support our mission of building communities where children are free from abuse and neglect.”
The merge will streamline administration while keeping critical services operational in each county. A new board of directors has been created for CAN Council Great Lakes Bay Region.
“We are extremely proud of the visionary leaders from both counties, who saw the need and the benefit of bringing our organizations together,” said Drewe Robinson, CAN Council Great Lakes Bay Region board chair.
For additional information, visit www.cancouncil.org or www.facebook.com/cancouncil.  

ESPINOZA JOINS YEO & YEO FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
Michael Espinoza, CRPC, has joined Yeo & Yeo Financial Services, Inc. He is a registered representative with Genworth Financial Securities Corporation with eight years of experience in providing financial and investment services including mutual funds, IRAs and annuities, and retirement planning. He is a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and serves in the firm’s Saginaw office. 
Espinoza is a member of the Great Lakes Bay Regional Hispanic Business Association, the Bay City Jaycees and the Fordney Club. He is a member of the University of Michigan Alumni Association board of directors and is a Junior Achievement volunteer. He resides in Bay City.

DCECU OFFERS FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAM
Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union has partnered with FamilyMint, an award-winning hands-on budgeting and educational application designed specifically for children ages 6 to 16.
“FamilyMint provides parents with a free, interactive and simple resource to help raise money-smart kids,” said DCECU President/CEO Dennis Hanson. “With this program, kids learn by managing their own money in a safe, virtual environment. Parents act as the banker and custodian of the money.”
Children can use the program to allocate savings, set goals and make transactions. Parents can automate allowance, encourage savings with motivating interest rates and reward deposits for goals.
FamilyMint was created by CEO Jeff Eusebio and President Bob Masterson, two fathers who were frustrated with the existing tools in the marketplace for teaching sound money management skills earlier in life.
“Our goal was to develop an intuitive tool that parents can easily work into busy schedules and that visually shows kids how their money can work for them,” Masterson said. “What’s different about FamilyMint is that the children are in the drivers’ seats organizing their money, establishing goals and working to achieve them.”
According to The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., nearly 72 percent of the parents surveyed acknowledged that they are their children’s primary source of personal finance education, although 44 percent admit to needing more guidance on how to best teach their children the skills necessary to become financially responsible and successful adults.
“We’re excited to be partnering with DCECU because of their extensive community focus,” Eusebio said. “We know FamilyMint will be a great enhancement to DCECU’s educational and youth programs.”
DCECU has more than $1.4 billion in assets and more than 56,000 members. To learn about membership eligibility requirements, visit www.dcecu.org or call (989) 835-7794 or (800) 835-7794.

Pat Backus, Catholic Federal Credit Union’s Euclid, Bay City Branch Manager to Retire
After 27 years of service at Catholic Federal Credit Union, Pat Backus, Branch Manager of the Euclid, Bay City office, will retire in December. “I have loved my years at Catholic Federal and will dearly miss my many members who have become like friends,” Pat stated.
The members and staff have greatly benefited from her remarkable dedication. “Although we will miss Pat, her passion and devotion to the staff she has mentored and the members she has helped and befriended will continue to be a part of Catholic Federal,” stated Tom Zirkle, Chief Operating Officer.
Established in 1956, Catholic Federal Credit Union has offices in Bay City, Essexville, Saginaw and Vassar.

David Sweterlitsch joins Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting
Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting welcomes David Sweterlitsch to the staff as an IT Systems Engineer. David has over 12 years experience in technology with a background in Windows server technologies, local area networks, desktop operating systems, computer and network hardware, disaster planning and recovery, security and accounting software. He holds the Microsoft Certified Information Technology Professional (MCITP): Server Administrator accreditation. David attended the State University of New York at Buffalo and the State Univeristy of New York at Binghamton obtaining a BS in accounting and an MBA in information systems. He resides in Bay City.

Independent Bank teams up with Freddie Mac in homeowner outreach and counseling
Independent Bank announces that it is working with Freddie Mac for a third year in an effort to expand outreach and education to potential homeowners. Freddie Mac will be providing an operating grant and educational counseling materials while Independent Bank associates will donate additional support for two counseling initiatives supported by Freddie Mac.
The first initiative is outreach and education using Freddie Mac’s new Get the Facts on Homeownership materials, and is intended to dispel common misconceptions about buying and owning a home. The second initiative, “Get Credit Smart” uses the Freddie Mac CreditSmart comprehensive consumer financial literacy curriculum. CreditSmart was developed by Freddie Mac along with various local and national nonprofit agencies. Freddie Mac’s support comes at a time of great need as nonprofit counseling agencies face challenges from increased demand and shrinking budgets.
Several nonprofit organizations have been selected statewide to receive the grants, materials and counseling support. The organizations receiving the grants and support include the Center for Financial Health with offices in Lansing and East Lansing, Circle of Love CDC in Saginaw, Bay Area Housing in Bay City and Human Development Commission in Caro.
“This relationship has been incredibly successful for all parties involved over the years, and we want to continue to demonstrate our commitment to the nonprofit organizations and communities we serve,” said Russ Daniel, senior vice president of mortgage lending at Independent Bank. “We are dedicated to ensuring people can get this important education.”
“The way to help more borrowers succeed is through comprehensive consumer education,” said Dwight Robinson, senior vice president of Corporate Relations and Housing Outreach for Freddie Mac. “Freddie Mac is proud to be a participant in this effort to promote responsible lending and stabilize communities by creating new opportunities for families seeking affordable homeownership.”
Since the end of 2010 and the start of 2011, 871 individuals have received financial literacy assistance, 367 individuals have received homebuyer education and 13,772 individuals have received service. Independent Bank’s loan officers will continue to donate their time to assist with the initiative to reach additional homeowners statewide.
For more information on Independent Bank or the joint initiative, contact Russ Daniel at 231.799.4000

DCECU HIRES NEW WEB ADMINISTRATOR
Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union recently hired Jonathan Witucki as its new Web administrator.
“Jonathan comes to DCECU with experience in developing and maintaining websites, as well as PC maintenance, troubleshooting and repair,” said DCECU President/CEO Dennis Hanson. “We are excited to add him to our team.”
Before coming to DCECU, Witucki worked for The Dow Chemical Company; Aedis IT, LLC; and XS Tech. He graduated from Saginaw Valley State University with a degree in computer information systems.
“Working at DCECU will present a new challenge,” Witucki said. “I’m looking forward to continuing to help members use the DCECU website as a financial resource.”
DCECU has more than $1.4 billion in assets and more than 55,000 members. To learn about membership eligibility requirements, visit www.dcecu.org or call (989) 835-7794 or (800) 835-7794.

DCECU HIRES NEW OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR
Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union recently hired Stephanie Hoeh as its new operations supervisor.
“Stephanie’s comprehensive communication skills and proven organizational skills will be an asset at DCECU,” said DCECU President/CEO Dennis Hanson. “We’re excited to have her join our team.”
Before coming to DCECU, Hoeh was an assistant manager at PNC Bank for three years. She also spent seven years as a retail personal banker at Comerica Bank. Hoeh is a Saginaw Valley State University graduate with a degree in business management.
“I’m looking forward to meeting DCECU’s members and working with such a great staff,” Hoeh said.
DCECU has more than $1.4 billion in assets and more than 55,000 members. To learn about membership eligibility requirements, visit www.dcecu.org or call (989) 835-7794 or (800) 835-7794.

Two Long Term Agencies Join Forces
Saginaw Bay Underwriters and Landmark Insurance Agency have joined forces effective September 1, 2011. Both agencies have a long time history in the Great Lakes Bay Region, Saginaw Bay Underwriters with roots being traced back to 1863, and Landmark to 1921. Both are locally owned and operated insurance agencies
The combined agencies will operate under the Saginaw Bay Underwriters name. This expansion will provide their customers more coverage and carrier options. SBU will now have two locations in Saginaw, along with their Bay City and Midland offices.

AMPM Inc. Welcomes Bob Johnson
Bob Johnson, a Saginaw resident, stepped into the role of social marketing/communications manager to the System of Care Project for AMPM Inc., a Midland-based marketing communication firm, contracted for social marketing to support the initiative.
After graduating from the Delta College Electronic Media Broadcasting Program, he went on to complete an internship in the public relations department at Michigan Blood; form the non-profit organization, Communities Working 2gether (CW2); write for local publications and recently was a reporter with The Saginaw News. He is currently pursuing a bachelor of arts degree in marketing at Northwood University.

DCECU PROMOTES LISA GRAY TO DIRECTOR OF COMPLIANCE & RISK MANAGEMENT
Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union recently promoted Lisa Gray to director of compliance & risk management.
“Lisa has been with DCECU since 1990 when she began as an intern,” said DCECU President/CEO Dennis Hanson. “It’s great to see our employees grow within the credit union.”
Gray has previously held the positions of marketing director, special projects and training coordinator and compliance specialist at DCECU.
“It has been a privilege to be an employee of Dow Chemical Employees' Credit Union and I look forward to many more years of service,” Gray said. “DCECU has a long history of dedication and appreciation for their staff through development and growth opportunities and I have been very blessed to be a part of this amazing organization.”
DCECU has more than $1.4 billion in assets and more than 55,000 members. To learn about membership eligibility requirements, visit www.dcecu.org or call (989) 835-7794 or (800) 835-7794.

Independent Bank’s Michael J. Stodolak named board chair for the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance
Michael J. Stodolak, senior vice president of retail banking for Independent Bank, has been elected to the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance as a board member. The Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance encourages a regional environment that is supportive of business, economic development and education. The goal of the alliance is to promote an efficient and effective community that maintains a quality of life sufficient to attract and retain individuals and companies to the region.
In addition to the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance, Stodolak is also actively involved as the chairman for the Bay Regional Medical Foundation board, the chairman for the Saginaw CRA bankers Forum, a board member of the Bay City Downtown Development board and is the Michigan Alumni representative for the Graduate School of Banking.

FinancialEdge Community Credit Union and Do-All, Incorporated announce unique branch partnership.
FinancialEdge Community Credit Union and Do-All, Incorporated have teamed up to provide financial services to Do-All trainees and employees through an on-site branch at the Do-All facility on South Lincoln in Bay City.
The primary purpose of the branch partnership is to teach money handling and personal finance skills to adult trainees as part of their training with Do-All. The branch will be open one day a week at Do-All’s Lincoln Street facility. “Providing easy access to financial services and tools to help trainees learn basic money management skills will help enhance the assistance we already provide to trainees,” said Chris Girard, CEO of Do-All. “FinancialEdge is providing the resources and program development to teach cash handling, accounting and money management skills; allowing trainees to operate their own real branch of a credit union.”
As part of its community involvement initiatives, FinancialEdge operates a similar student-run branch at Washington Elementary as well as classroom education for students and adults on personal finance. “Credit union’s have always followed the core philosophy of People Helping People”, commented FinancialEdge CEO, Jeremy Coberley. “Our involvement in partnerships like this program with Do-All is key to helping not just members of the credit union, but providing a service to our community. We’re excited to be a part of such a unique venture.”
Funding for the branch partnership operations and programs is being underwritten in part by a grant from the Michigan Credit Union Foundation which supports credit union’s community outreach initiatives through the Community Reinvestment Initiative (CRI) grant program.

DCECU PARTNERS WITH STATE REPRESENTATIVE TO CLEAN UP MIDLAND COMMUNITY
State Rep. Jim Stamas of Midland recently partnered with Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union’s management team and Green Team to clean up roadside trash and debris in the neighborhood surrounding DCECU and near US-10.
“We were honored when Rep. Stamas approached us to join with him in this community clean-up effort,” said DCECU President/CEO Dennis Hanson. “Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union takes great pride in beautifying our little corner of the Midland community for visitors entering our town from the east.”
The team of 13 people worked from 7 to 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 9. Together, they collected 12 commercial-sized bags of litter.
“I want to thank all of the volunteers for taking time out of their busy schedules to help improve an important gateway to our community,” Stamas said. “Midland's strength has always been its people, and it was a great privilege to help with this roadside cleanup effort.”
DCECU has more than $1.4 billion in assets and more than 55,000 members. To learn about membership eligibility requirements, visit www.dcecu.org or call (989) 835-7794 or (800) 835-7794.

New Online Computer Training from Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting
Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting announces the expansion of its YeoCare Computer Training program to include new online computer classes. Dan Schluckbier, a Microsoft Certified Trainer, now offers live, web-based training classes in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and QuickBooks. Meeting the demands for convenient, task-specific training, the webinar-style classes are only 1 to 1.5 hours in length. They are ideal for business professionals and personal computer users who want to master select program features such as Pivot Tables in Excel or Mail Merges in Word.
All YeoCare training classes include free after-class support. Hands-on, customized and on-site classes are also available. For more information, view the course catalog and register online, visit www.yeoandyeo-consulting.com.

Inventor and Entrepreneur Joins SVSU College of Business
Saginaw Valley State University has hired Joseph Affholter as its new Dow entrepreneur-in-residence in the College of Business and Management. In that role, he will teach courses and work with students interested in starting or developing a business, while also serving as a resource for the College and the community to help regional businesses innovate and grow.
“He is an inventor and entrepreneur with a deep understanding of innovation-based business development,” said Jill Wetmore, dean of the College of Business and Management. “His ability to bridge academic content and research with ‘real world’ entrepreneurship will complement existing faculty to create an entrepreneurship program that addresses the interests of SVSU students, and helps the university address the economic needs of the region. "
Affholter brings diverse technical and entrepreneurial expertise to the position. He has run his own consulting business since 2000, working with clients in the chemical, biotechnology and education industries. From 2005 to 2009, Affholter also served as chief executive and chief scientist for GANTEC, a natural products technology enterprise based in Midland. He remains a special advisor for the company whose initial products are natural supplements that allow professional growers and consumers to increase resilience and yield of fruits, vegetable and flowers.
An accomplished inventor and scholar, Affholter has 10 patents to his credit and another 12 pending or published patent applications in areas such as novel antibody derivatives for use in cancer diagnosis and treatment, molecular breeding technology, and automated protein engineering. In addition, he has authored more than 15 peer-reviewed and invited scholarly articles.
Prior to starting his independent business ventures, Affholter worked in the corporate sector as a research leader and biotechnology advisor for The Dow Chemical Company for eight years. He also spent five years with Maxygen, a biotechnology company in Redwood City, Calif., serving as a vice president and later as chief strategist-analyst.
Affholter also has prior higher education experience, having taught for the University of the Nations, a Hawaii-based institution with a nontraditional learning model and more than 250 locations nationwide. In addition to his teaching role, he has served on the school’s international advisory board since 2003. Affholter also taught as a visiting scholar at the California Institute of Technology in 1997.
Affholter completed a Ph.D. in molecular pharmacology from Stanford University’s School of Medicine, and a bachelor’s degree from Michigan Technological University. He replaces Ken Kousky, who left SVSU to become CEO of the MidMichigan Innovation Center. Affholter will begin his duties at SVSU Monday, Aug. 15.
The entrepreneur-in-residence and Entrepreneurship Institute are supported by a $2 million endowment from the Herbert H. And Grace A. Dow Foundation received as part of SVSU’s “Promise for Tomorrow” campaign.

RIEDLINGER, ZIMMERMAN ATTEND ESTATE PLANNING CONFERENCE
Gary L. Riedlinger, CPA, PFS, a principal in Yeo & Yeo’s Saginaw office, and Michael R. Zimmerman, CPA, a principal in Yeo & Yeo’s Midland office, recently attended the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Advanced Estate Planning Conference in Boston, Mass.
In an intensive four days, the event provided interactive sessions, classroom discussions and case studies structured to provide in-depth information on current issues that impact estate planning. The sessions covered a wide range of topics such as IRAs, life insurance, family LLCs, trusts, probate litigation, and new estate planning laws.

DCECU EMPLOYEES RAISE MONEY FOR MIDLAND COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE
Employees at Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union recently raised $360 for Midland County Relay For Life. For the one-day fundraiser, participating DCECU employees each donated money, which entitled them to wear blue jeans and tennis shoes to work that day.
“Cancer affects so many people in our community,” said DCECU President/CEO Dennis Hanson. “We’re proud that our employees donated nearly 36 percent more to Midland County Relay for Life this year to help out those who have the disease.”
Relay for Life helps communities across the globe celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and fight back against the disease.
“DCECU regularly hosts fundraisers to help support nonprofit organizations in the Great Lakes Bay region,” Hanson said. “We emphasize the importance of giving back to your community.”
DCECU has more than $1.4 billion in assets and more than 55,000 members. To learn about membership eligibility requirements,visit www.dcecu.org or call (989) 835-7794 or (800) 835-7794.

Yeo & Yeo, CPAs, is pleased to announce the promotion of three employees in the firm’s Saginaw office.
Amy L. Geer, CPA, CVA, has been promoted to manager. She provides business consulting, computer consulting and valuation services. She is a Certified Valuation Analyst and a Certified Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor. She is a board member and treasurer for the Saginaw Economic Development Corporation, and a member of the Young Professionals Network Steering Committee. She resides in Midland.
Ashley Majewski, CPA, has received a Certified Public Accountant license and has been promoted to senior accountant. She provides tax preparation services. She is a member of the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She is also a member of the Junior League of Saginaw Valley and resides in Saginaw.
Jesse Marenger, CPA, has received a Certified Public Accountant license and has been promoted to senior accountant. He provides audit services and specializes in audits of employee benefit plans. He is a member of the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He resides in Saginaw.

$15,000.00 grant awarded to Junior Achievement of Northeast Michigan
SAGINAW — A $15,000.00 grant has been awarded to Junior Achievement of Northeast Michigan to promote its JA Economics Program and JA Personal Finance Program at Saginaw High School.
Helen James, Vice President & Client Advisor for Citizens Bank Wealth Management NA communicated that the grant had been approved from the Margaret Stoker Charitable Trust administered by Citizens Bank Wealth Management.
Margaret Stoker was married to Edward J. Stoker and they owned and operated Pietz Meat Market for many years. Edward Stoker passed away in May of 1980 and Margaret Stoker passed away in January of 2001. The Margaret Stoker Charitable Trust was established to benefit charitable causes in the United States and with a strong preference given to those in Saginaw County.
Mark Pankner, President of Junior Achievement of Northeast Michigan said the money will be used for text books, work books, access to an on-line simulation exercise and a supplemental course on financial literacy.
“Through this grant, students at Saginaw High will benefit from excellent materials and the opportunity to have a volunteer from the business community work together with the economics teacher to provide hands-on teaching of entrepreneurism, financial literacy and work readiness skills."
JA Economics is a one semester, fully accredited program for high school students. The classroom teacher, using curriculum developed by Junior Achievement USA., teaches all but seven days of a semester when a business consultant visits the classroom supplementing theory with personal insights into the corporate decision- making process.
“Citizens Bank Wealth Management has worked with Junior Achievement for decades”, Pankner said. “The business community recognizes the unique ability of Junior Achievement to prepare the next generation of workers, managers and leaders. “Junior Achievement programs gives students an excellent perspective on the economic decisions that shape their lives. And it plays an important role in developing the skills and attitudes that will keep America competitive now and for years to come.”
Junior Achievement of Northeast Michigan’s goal is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a Global Economy. During the 2010-2011 school year over 12,000 students will have participated in their in-school programs. The goal for 2011-2012 is to reach over 13,000 students.
For more information, call the Junior Achievement office at 752-9050 or visit their web site at http://northeastmichigan.ja.org/  

YEO & YEO PROMOTES ROLFE
Saginaw, MI: Yeo & Yeo, P.C. is pleased to announce that Jessica A. Rolfe, CPA, has received a Certified Public Accountant license and has been promoted to Senior Accountant. She provides audit services in the firm’s Saginaw office.
Ms. Rolfe holds a Bachelor of Professional Accountancy from Saginaw Valley State University. She is a member of the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She resides in Midland.
Yeo & Yeo, P.C. is a certified public accounting and consulting firm that serves individuals, businesses, not-for-profit, education and government entities. Over 180 employees in eight offices throughout Michigan provide professional accounting business solutions. Other Yeo & Yeo affiliates include Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting, LLC and Affiliated Medical Billing. Offices are located in Saginaw (headquarters), Alma, Ann Arbor, Flint, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Marlette and Midland.

The Wirt-Rivette Group Promotes Two Associates
The Wirt-Rivette Group is pleased to announce that Eric Finnigan has been promoted to Vice-President of the Commercial Property Division and Sara Sakon has been promoted to Vice-President of Business Growth and Marketing.
Finnigan is responsible for the property management department for The Wirt-Rivette Group which oversees a portfolio valued at over $18 Million comprised of office, medical, retail and manufacturing facilities in the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Finnigan received his real estate salesperson license in 2010 and is a Commercial Realtor®. The Wirt-Rivette Group developed a dynamic partnership with Michael Keenan of DeGroat Keenan Commercial to offer brokerage, development, finance and property related consulting solutions to its clients. Finnigan is also the Vice-Chair of the Energize Bay Area Young Professional Group.
Sakon manages the marketing and business growth department for the organization’s equipment financing, property financing, property management and consulting divisions.
Sakon is an Ambassador for The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, as well as a member of the Steering Committee for the Energize Bay Area Young Professional Group.
Both Finnigan and Sakon have been with The Wirt-Rivette Group since 2006. They began their careers with the organization as part of the College Associate Program, while attending Northwood University.
Clarence M. Rivette stated, “The company’s philosophy is to train, retain and grow young professionals within the Great Lakes Bay Region.” Four of The Wirt-Rivette Group’s current employees began their careers as part of the company’s College Associate Program. Positions are available in The Wirt-Rivette Group’s College Associate Program and resumes can be faxed to Sara Sakon at 989.892.8151 or emailed to ssakon@wirtrivettegroup.com.
The Wirt-Rivette Group’s main office is located at 3520 Davenport Ave. Saginaw, MI 48602. The company provides integrated finance and consulting solutions and can be reached at 989.892.0658 or online at www.wirtrivettegroup.com 

SVSU Board Approves Graduate Program in Energy & Materials
The Saginaw Valley State University Board of Control approved a new graduate degree program during its regular session Saturday, May 7, authorizing a Master of Science in Energy and Materials degree.
“Energy has become a key technical area regionally, nationally and globally,” said Deborah Huntley, dean of the College of Science, Engineering and Technology. “This program is designed to provide advanced scientific and engineering education to support the growth and demand for technologies that reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and to prepare students for the dynamic challenges related to alternative energy, energy storage industries, and advanced materials.”
The curriculum was developed with input from leading local employers, as well as regional chemists, engineers and physicists.
“It is uniquely interdisciplinary,” Huntley said. She expects the program to appeal to a variety of professionals in engineering and science fields, and to adapt as industry needs change. Courses will begin in the 2011 fall semester.
The Board also elected officers for the 2011-12 fiscal year. David Abbs of Saginaw will serve as chair. Jeff Martin of Saginaw will serve as vice chair. Leola Wilson of Saginaw will serve as secretary, and Cathy Ferguson of Saginaw will serve as treasurer. Their terms will begin July 1.
In other action, the Board:
• Passed a resolution thanking Julie Boon and elected representatives of the Student Association for their service during the 2010-11 academic year.
• Passed a resolution congratulating Ted Goodman and elected representatives of the Student Association on their election for the 2011-12 academic year.
• Passed a resolution to grant undergraduate and graduate degrees.
• Established the Board’s meeting calendar for 2011-12.
• Extended the University’s electricity contract with Wolverine Power Marketing Cooperative through 2016.
• Approved natural gas purchase agreements with the State of Michigan through 2016.

Independent Bank says customers can help prevent crime
Customers should take precautions when using ATMs
There are more than 400,000 ATMs in the United States and that number is growing rapidly. Independent Bank has 113 ATMs across the state and is dedicated to keeping its customers safe at those locations.
“We believe that even one incident of ATM crime is too many,” said Sandy Dine, deposit operations manager. “Customer safety is our top priority when it comes to ATM use.”
In addition, the bank has taken preventative measures to enhance consumer safety including installation of surveillance cameras, increased lighting and withdrawal limits.
Independent Bank takes a number of precautions to ensure that its customers have a safe environment, but there is no substitute for good, cautious behavior on the part of the customer.
Independent Bank recommends that customers follow these safety tips when using any ATM:
• Keep your PIN number a secret. Never write it down or share it with anyone – not even family members.
• Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Make sure the ATM is free of sight obstructions. If you observe suspicious persons or circumstances, do not use the machine.
• Bring someone with you when using an ATM at night. If you can’t, use an ATM that is located in a public area like a convenience or grocery store.
• Have your ATM card ready and in your hand as you approach the ATM.
• Use your body to “shield” the ATM keyboard as you enter your PIN.
• Always take your receipts or transaction records with you.
• Do not count or visually display any money you received from the ATM. Immediately put your money into your pocket or purse and count it later.
• If you are using a drive-up ATM, be sure passenger windows are rolled up and all doors are locked. If you leave your car and walk to the ATM, lock your car.