TROY, Mich., Feb. 3, 2012 – The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) Education Foundation is reminding students that the deadline for entry into the Courageous Persuaders video competition is approaching quickly. The deadline for entry is February 9, 2012. The announcement was made by DADA President Bob Shuman.

Shuman also announced that long time Courageous Persuaders partner, State Farm Insurance, will offer a new Fan Favorite Award, determined through independent votes on videos posted on a dedicated YouTube channel. The award, a $2,500 cash prize, will be presented to the classroom of the school that produced the video that garners the most votes.

Courageous Persuaders is a competition-based scholarship program that invites high school students to create a 30-second television commercial about the dangers of underage drinking. The commercials are targeted toward middle school-aged children, with the winning entries aired on television and via streaming video on www.courageouspersuaders.com. The Michigan Department of State, led by Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, will also show the winning commercials in select Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) branch offices. The winners will be announced at a gala Awards Celebration to be held in May.

“The videos produced by these young people are truly impressive,” said Shuman. “It’s a great demonstration of the creativity of our young people, and at the same time, an important tool in combatting the dangers of underage drinking.”

The Courageous Persuaders program was created in 2000 by Oakland County District Judge Michael A. Martone and John Barczyk, a local McCann-Erickson advertising executive. In 2007, the DADA became the primary sponsor and administrator of the Courageous Persuaders program through its DADA Education Foundation. Last year, the contest drew 514 entries from 898 students in 38 states.

Winning entries are eligible for the following scholarship awards:

• Grand Prize: $3,000
• First Place: $1,500
• Second Place: $1,000
• Third Place: $500

Additionally, special awards are also presented by Courageous Persuaders partners:

• Lindsey Renee Cianciolo Family Memorial Scholarship: $3,000 – two $1,500 Michigan-based scholarship winners
• Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) Award: $2,000
• Adcraft Club of Detroit Award: $2,000 – presented to the commercial that conveyed factual information about the dangers of alcohol use
• Wall Street Journal Award: $2,000 – chosen among the most persuasive commercials, as judged by middle school students
• State Farm Insurance: $1,000 – awarded to a Michigan-based entry on the dangers of drinking and driving
• College for Creative Studies Award: $250 – based on the creativity of the commercial
• Wall Street Journal Courageous Leader Award – presented to a special teacher for his or her extraordinary support of the Courageous Persuaders program

Winners are selected after several rounds of judging. During the first round, a panel from the DADA views the entries and identifies the top 60 finalists. Those entries are then reviewed by students at middle schools, who complete questionnaires. Results of the questionnaires determine the winners.

To view the winning commercials and/or enter the 2012 competition, visit the Web site at www.CourageousPersuaders.com, or contact Sandy Herp at 248.283.5138 or sherp@dada.org.

About the DADA Education Foundation
The mission of the DADA Education Foundation is to promote excellence in education through quality programs and leadership.

About Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA)
The DADA was founded in 1907 by 17 local car dealers, and has grown to more than 220 member car and truck dealers who donate their time and resources to a host of community activities. Currently, the DADA members collectively employ more than 16,500 people. Many members participate in the NAIAS, LLC, which is responsible for the production of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). To find out more about Detroit Auto Dealers Association, visit www.dada.org. To find out more about the NAIAS, visit www.naias.com.

Contact: Sandy Herp, Tel: (248) 283-5138, sherp@dada.org

Source: The Detroit Auto Dealers Association
Distributed by: Smartfinds Internet Marketing

January 23, 2012 (Internet Industry): Industrial auction sites have become a booming sector on the Internet during the past decade, but many buyers still are skeptical. “If you are interested in a piece of equipment, how do you know if the darn thing still works, and if it has all the cables, connectors, parts, pieces, manuals, discs, etc. that you will need?,” says one reluctant purchaser.

Now, a new website, checkitoutupfront.com, will serve as a bridge between online buyers who are physically separated from goods they are considering purchasing and agents who can “check it out” for them. It’s easy enough when one wants to buy a sweater from reputable online retailers, but buyers who need validation of condition have, until now, been left without viable options.

The new site will target buyers in four primary categories in online auctions: industrial equipment auctions, art & antiques auctions, auto auctions and private sales, real estate auctions, private sales and rentals. The site is also set up to help people who are considering an online transaction and need to have an item “checked out” upfront, such as vacation properties and timeshares, personal property and collectibles, even pets.

Checkitoutupfront.com can become an important source of income for professional appraisers, inspectors, freelance consultants (referred to as “Bloodhounds” on the website). Since the site will aggregate requests from all over the world, opportunities will exist to check out, and report on, an auction for dozens potential buyers in one visit. For example, a qualified Service Provider may be able to find 30 shoppers on checkitoutupfront.com and charge each $100 to check out a large auction.

Checkitoutupfront.com is now actively encouraging those who have experience and expertise in these areas to visit the site to register at no charge. Potential service providers need to complete a short application, listing their credentials and experience in their field. Later on, buyers all over the world will be invited to post requests for service, detailing what they need to have checked out, where it is located and what information they need to help with their purchase decision. Checkitoutupfront.com will then notify potential service providers to respond to the request for service.

We invite inspectors and appraisers to visit www.checkitoutupfront.com to become Bloodhounds for the online auction industry.

Each week, Dear Gracie answers questions from ProfNet Connect readers with advice from our network of more than 44,000 ProfNet experts. Has there been a question burning in your mind lately, something you’ve been wondering that none of your friends can answer? Please send it to grace.lavigne@prnewswire.com

Dear Gracie,

I’m interested in tips for branders/advertisers/marketers on how social media is different from traditional media. Are there any tactics we should use specifically for social media vs. traditional media? How do brands become memorable through social media? What makes a brand successful on social media?

Media Minded

For example, social media allows consumers to have access to the ratings and reviews of fellow shoppers, says Melih Oztalay, CEO of SmartFinds Internet Marketing. A study by the e-tailing group and PowerReviews (found on MarketCharts.com) in September showed 6 out of 10 consumers base shopping decisions on the ratings and reviews of others, through social media sites and user-generated content.

Social media allows consumers to receive individual attention from a brand, says Oztalay.

Read more details of How Social Media Changed Branding at:
http://www.profnetconnect.com/gracelavigne/blog/2011/11/02/dear_gracie:_how_social_media_changed_branding

VW North Scottsdale 3 Day Sales Event

Volkswagen offers a complete line of unique vehicles known for their incredible reliability, control, and design. From the classic Beetle, to the popularly reliable Jetta, to the fully functional Routan, each Volkswagen automobile is quality engineered for performance and reliability. At the 3-Day Sales Event, Volkswagen customers will be able to see and drive their favorite models. They are also encouraged to take advantage of premium pricing and rate offers for affordable sales and lease specials.

Incredible lease specials starting as low as $239 per month for a 2011 Jetta or $260 per month for the new Tiguan S will be available for qualified buyers. Families will appreciate the incredible 0% financing options for up to 72 months on the 2011 Routan. Visitors are encouraged to come early in order to take advantage of the best selection and pricing available. The event kicks off Friday morning and runs through the weekend, so customers have three full days to save.

“At these incredible prices, our most popular models won’t last, so I encourage buyers to come early in order to take advantage of each great special,” says North Scottsdale Volkswagen general manager, Brook Margraves.

So whether you are looking for the powerful and sporty GTI or the reliable functionality of the German-engineered Touareg, you can find it all this weekend at North Scottsdale Volkswagen at great low prices you will love.

About North Scottsdale Volkswagen

Conveniently located at 7001 E. Chauncey Lane in North Scottsdale, they are just south of the 101 Freeway. Voted #1 in Customer Satisfaction by VW customers 4 years’ running, North Scottsdale Volkswagen offers the finest selection in new and pre-owned Volkswagen models. As an authorized Volkswagen dealer, they strive to provide exceptional sales, service, and parts for VW automobiles. They are also a proud member of the Penske Automotive family and offer world-class customer service and sales experience. To learn more about North Scottsdale Volkswagen’s latest inventory, pricing, specials, and events visit them online at www.VWNorthScottsdale.com.

Volkswagen North Scottsdale
7001 East Chauncey Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85054-6143
Tel: (480) 538-4700

Scottsdale Ferrari 3 Day Sales Event

Scottsdale Ferrari carries a premium selection of new and pre-owned luxury vehicles from the leading luxury car manufacturers in the world. Featuring incredible power, design, comfort, and safety ratings, each automobile is engineered to the highest performance standards. Whether you are looking for a car that tears it up on the track or one that offers the best in luxury design and comfort, there is something for everyone at Scottsdale Ferrari. Ferrari fans will have the opportunity to choose from a wide array of quality exotic automobiles including the Ferrari F430 Spider, Ferrari 438 Italia, and the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. Premium used models from Aston Martin, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lotus, and Maserati will also be available at significantly discounted prices.

The Scottsdale Ferrari general manager gave the following comment about the event, “We are very excited to offer this sale for our customers. It is a rare opportunity to take advantage of special pricing on your favorite exotic cars from Ferrari, Maserati, and Lotus.”

The McDowell Motor Mile Used Car Sales Event kicks off on Friday morning and will run through the weekend. In addition to special pricing, there will be many special financing rates available to those who qualify. All trades are welcome and special appraisers will be on hand during the course of the event to help customers get the maximum value for their car. The event will run for three days only and visitors are encouraged to attend early while the selection is best.

About Scottsdale Ferrari

Scottsdale Ferrari is located on 68th Street and McDowell in Scottsdale, Arizona. Conveniently located outside Phoenix, they are Arizona’s factory-authorized Ferrari-Maserati dealer and specialize in sales, service and parts for premium exotic automobiles. As a Penske Automotive dealership, they pride themselves in offering exceptional service and sales assistance to give customers the best car buying experience possible. To learn more about their current inventory, pricing, service, and events please visit them online at www.ScottsdaleFerrari.com.

Scottsdale Ferrari
6825 East McDowell Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Tel: (888) 558-9436

Scottsdale Lexus 3 Day Sale Flyer

The event begins Friday morning, June 24th and runs through Sunday evening June 26th. Significant discounts will be available on all pre-owned models in stock. Visitors will also have the rare opportunity to take advantage of special financing and lease rate options. For those who qualify, rates as low as 1.9% APR will be available on all Lexus certified pre-owned vehicles for up to 48 months. New models may also be available starting as low as 2.9% APR for qualified buyers. The dealership is unable to quote specific pricing due to their substantial discounts, but visitors can inquire about pricing with any Scottsdale Lexus sales representative during the event. All trade-in vehicles will also be welcome during the event.

Lexus has been a proud industry leader in the luxury car market for decades. As winner of the JD Power Award for “Highest Customer Satisfaction for Dealer Service Among Luxury Brands,” they offer the finest in sales and service for luxury and sport performance vehicles. From the sporty IS coupe to the luxury LS, or utility-based LX, Lexus offers a wide array of luxury automobiles and SUVs.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity for our customers to own or lease their favorite Lexus vehicles at quality affordable pricing,” says Scottsdale Lexus’ general manager Tracy Moorman. He encourages participants to attend the event early to be able to take advantage of the best selection and pricing.

About Scottsdale Lexus

Scottsdale Lexus is located at 6905 E. McDowell Rd. in Scottsdale, Arizona just minutes from “Old Town” Scottsdale and its eclectic mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries. As an authorized Lexus dealer, they provide sales, service, and parts for new and pre-owned luxury vehicles. Winner of the “Elite of Lexus” Award 18 times, they pride themselves in providing an exceptional car buying and service experience for their customers. Scottsdale Lexus is also a Penske Automotive dealership dedicated to offering high-quality service and sales standards. To learn more about their new or pre-owned inventory, pricing, specials, and events, please visit them online at www.ScottsdaleLexus.com.

Scottsdale Lexus
6905 East McDowell Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85257-3205
Tel: (480) 990-7000

BMW North Scottsdale Summer Sales Flyer

BMW North Scottsdale’s general manager, Bob Dombrowski commented on the event saying, “We know our customers are going to be very excited about this event. It is a great opportunity for BMW enthusiasts to take advantage of some incredible pricing on their favorite new models of the year.”

BMW has a strong reputation for offering high-performance, luxury sport vehicles that offer the best in comfort, power, and control. Visitors are invited to browse the large inventory of BMW cars and SUVs that will be in stock throughout the weekend. With such a large variety of models, including sporty coupes, classic luxury sedans, and the largest selection of BMW SUVs in Arizona, there will be something available for everyone. Whether you are a fan of the 3-Series, the 5-Series, the 7-Series or luxury utility vehicles like the BMW X3,X5, or X6, this is a great opportunity to experience one for yourself.

The event not only features invoice pricing on new BMW vehicles, but also offers incredible trade-in and financing opportunities. Dombrowski states, “We will have special appraisers on hand all weekend to get customers maximum trade-in value.” All trade-ins will be welcomed by the dealership. Customers can also apply for special lease rates and financing options while at the event to qualify for their favorite new BMW. Special rates will be available on popular models including the 2011 BMW 328i which will be offered as low as $369 per month for a 27 month lease for qualified buyers.

The event will be hosted on site at BMW North Scottsdale starting Friday morning and running through Sunday evening. Anyone interested in viewing or driving a new 2011 BMW should stop by for their chance to take advantage of the large selection that will be available to shop.

About BMW North Scottsdale

BMW North Scottsdale is located at 1818 N. Scottsdale Rd in Phoenix, Arizona, just south of the 101 freeway. BMW North Scottsdale is a Penske Automotive dealership. They pride themselves on offering exceptional sales and service for new and pre-owned BMW vehicles to make the car buying experience fun and memorable. For more information on their location, vehicles, pricing and events visit www.BMWNorthScottsdale.com.

BMW North Scottsdale
18018 N Scottsdale Road
Phoenix, AZ 85054-6139
Tel: (800) 287-9465

Mercedes-Benz of Chandler 3-Day Sales Flyer

Known for its rich automotive heritage and dedication to designing world-class sport performance and luxury vehicles, Mercedes-Benz offers a wide selection of coupes, sedans, SUVs, and roadsters, all of which can be seen and driven at the 3-Day Sales Event. Chandler, Scottsdale, and Phoenix valley residents will be able to browse the latest Mercedes-Benz models including the all-new 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class released June 1, 2011. Featuring the new powerful twin-turbo V8 engine, aggressive sport styling, and luxury cabin, this innovative 4-door coupe is making waves in the automotive industry and offers a singular driving experience Arizona Mercedes-Benz fans will want to feel for themselves.

Hosted on-site at the Mercedes-Benz of Chandler dealership, the event starts at 9am Friday morning and runs through the weekend to Sunday evening. Customers can stop by Saturday from 11-2 or Sunday from 12-2 for free fresh-grilled hot dogs and drinks. In addition to affordable sales pricing, special lease rates will also be offered from Mercedes-Benz on specified models including the 2011 C300 and the 2011 GLK350. Visitors can also take advantage of great rewards and rate specials offered on many different vehicle purchases so they can fully enjoy the experience and benefits of owning a Mercedes-Benz.

About Mercedes-Benz of Chandler

Located in Chandler, Arizona, just off Ray Road, east of the I-10 freeway, Mercedes-Benz of Chandler is a Penske Automotive dealership and authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer offering sales, parts, and service for Mercedes-Benz and other vehicles. As a member of the Penske Automotive family, they are dedicated to providing world-class service and sales assistance for their customers. More information on their location, vehicles, pricing, and events can be found at www.mercedesbenzofchandler.com.

Mercedes-Benz of Chandler
7450 West Orchid Lane
Chandler, AZ 85226
Tel: (480) 421-4500

TROY, Michigan, June 1, 2011 – The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) awarded high school students who took a stand against underage drinking with $18,000 in scholarships at the annual Courageous Persuaders Awards Celebration, featuring a red carpet arrival and hosted by renowned Detroit television personality Huel Perkins, anchor at WJBK Fox2. The awards celebration was held on May 19th at the Troy Marriott in Troy, Mich.

The DADA is the primary sponsor and administrator of the Courageous Persuaders program, which is facilitated through the DADA Education Foundation. “This was truly an inspirational event,” said Bob Shuman, DADA Vice President, who represented the DADA at the event. “It provides hope that our next generation will not only make positive lifestyle choices, but will inspire others to do the same.”

The competition, now in its 11th year, encourages high school students to create 30-second television commercials warning middle school students about the dangers of drinking alcohol. The contest drew 898 participants who submitted 514 video entries, which included thousands of students from schools throughout the U.S.

Student scholarships and award winners:

• Grand Prize, $3,000 – “That’s Not Cool” by Catrina Stoner, Dundee High School, Dundee, Mich.
• First Place, $1,500 – “Friends Don’t Let Friends Drink” by Casey Rozelle, Lenawee ISD Tech Center, Adrian, Mich.
• Second Place, $1,000 – “Alcohol Doesn’t Fit” by Candice Everett, Stephenson High School, Stephenson, Mich.
• Third Place, $500 – “Best Friends Forever” by Alexandra Eastman, Hailey Thrasher, Alex McPherson, Dearborn High School, Dearborn, Mich.

In addition, special sponsored awards were presented to the following:

• Lindsey Renee Cianciolo Family Memorial Scholarship $3,000 – two $1,500 Michigan based scholarship winners: “Life in Reverse” by Morgan Lawrence, Eisenhower High School, Shelby Twp., Mich., and “Put That Drink Down” by Chelsea Washington, Camryn Washington, Home School, Southfield, Mich.
• Two DADA Awards for $1,000 each – contributed by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association: “Don’t Drink” by Jonathan D’Ambrosio, Lake Orion High School, Lake Orion, Mich., and “1 in 3” by Evan Trout, Fishers High School, Fishers, Ind.
• New York festivals, $2,000 – chosen based on the commercial’s effectiveness to inform and inspire: “Cheers” by Della Paul, Utica High School, Utica, Mich.
• Adcraft Club of Detroit Award, $2,000 – presented to the commercial that conveyed factual information about the dangers of alcohol use in the most persuasive and creative manner: “Why Waste Your Life” by Reid Petro, Kalamazoo Christian High School, Kalamazoo, Mich.
• State Farm Insurance Award, $1,000 – chosen based on the commercial’s effectiveness on the dangers and consequences of underage drinking and automobile usage: “You Know It’s Wrong” by Allison Otley, Angelique and Kara Payette, Janae Engels, Sarah Naegeli, and Alicia Carter, Coleman High School, Coleman, Wis.
• College for Creative Studies Award, a $250 Award and a portfolio or reel review – “Just Say No” by Neil Muck, Lenawee ISD Tech Center, Adrian, Mich.
• Wall Street Journal Award, $2,000 – chosen by the Wall Street Journal staff from among the most persuasive commercials, as judged by middle school students: “You Never Know” by Sean Mouton, Utica High School, Utica, Mich.
• Wall Street Journal Courageous Leader Award – presented to a special teacher for his or her extraordinary contribution to the Courageous Persuaders program: Troy Smith of Vicksburg High School, Vicksburg, Mich.

Winners were selected after several rounds of judging. During the first round, a panel, from the Detroit Auto Dealers Association viewed the entries and identified the top 60 contenders. Those entries were then reviewed by students at middle schools who completed questionnaires. Results of the questionnaires determined the winners.

“It showed me how people look up to you and you should be a good influence,” said a middle school student who judged the winning Grand Prize Award. “It also has a good perspective, it reminds viewers that they are the role models.”

The Courageous Persuaders program was created in 2000 by former Oakland County District Judge Michael A. Martone and John Barczyk, a local McCann-Erickson advertising executive (retired). In 2007, the DADA became the primary sponsor and administrator of the Courageous Persuaders program through its DADA Education Foundation. This year’s entries continued to be strong, drawing from 38 states, demonstrating the continued interest in the program in all areas of the country.

In addition to the scholarship, the grand prize-winning student receives the opportunity to participate in a professional editing session to make the video broadcast ready. The commercial will be broadcast on television, and will be televised in branches of the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office. Winning videos will be posted on www.courageouspersuaders.com. For additional information, please contact the Detroit Auto Dealers Association office at 248.643.0250.

About the DADA Education Foundation
The mission of the DADA Education Foundation is to promote excellence in education through quality programs and leadership. In addition to the Courageous Persuaders program, the Foundation also administers Automotive Education Day at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), the NAIAS Poster Contest, and coordinates the Automotive Youth Educational Systems in Michigan, an industry-wide program to enhance a student’s auto technician education.

About Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA)
The DADA was founded in 1907 by 17 local car dealers, and has grown to more than 220 member car and truck dealers who donate their time and resources to a host of community activities. Currently, the DADA members collectively employ more than 16,500 people.

Many members participate in the NAIAS, LLC, which is responsible for the production of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The most significant charitable venture of the DADA is the annual NAIAS Charity Preview, which has raised more than $44 million for children’s charities in southeastern Michigan since 1976. To find out more about Detroit Auto Dealers Association, visit www.dada.org. To find out more about the North American International Auto Show, visit www.naias.com.

Contact: Sandy Herp, Tel: (248) 283-5138, sherp@dada.org

Source: The Detroit Auto Dealers Association

Detroit, Michigan – March 7, 2011 (MTAM) – Though it has remained under the radar, Michigan’s mobile technology industry has slowly but steadily been achieving growth over the last several years, in spite of the state’s recent economic challenges.

According to WirelessAdvisor.com, as of June 2010, over 4600 were employed within Michigan by the carriers providing wireless service in the state. Thousands more are employed in such areas as: mobile app and website development, mobile marketing, cell tower installation, and mobile technology management. Additionally, thousands more are responsible for implementing mobile technology programs within a wide variety of industries including ad agencies, health care, manufacturing, retail, consumer services, automotive, travel, education, state services, tourism and more. And the need for staff in the mobile industry continues to grow.

A local mobile expert, Keith Bourne of Appervasive states, “I recently spoke with a number of companies across southeast Michigan about their most urgent need for their businesses, the unanimous response was people to fill mobile-related positions in their companies. And these positions were not just in mobile development as you might expect, but instead they crossed the entire hiring spectrum including sales, marketing, accounting, and so on, in addition to development.” Sevan Kulwicki, a representative from Southfield-based tier one technology staffing supplier Epitec Group, indicates that their clients have an ever-growing need for staff with mobile technology knowledge. She states, “Our clients depend on us to be in the forefront with regard to our ability to provide staff with mobile capabilities; for project management, development, and many other areas. We’re always seeking ways to connect with members of the mobile technology industry.”

As the industry grows, so too does the need for a Michigan-based trade association focused on synergy and collaboration to insure continued growth of the industry and the career opportunities it provides – particularly within the State of Michigan – and to provide resources that enable that continued growth. To meet those needs, the Mobile Technology Association of Michigan (MTAM) has been formed as a non-profit trade association for Michigan’s mobile technology industry. Those interested in joining MTAM may register on the organization’s new website at http://www.GoMobileMichigan.org ; this URL will direct visitors to the organization’s PC website or mobile-optimized website depending on the device being used to access it.

MTAM’s stated mission is “To grow the mobile industry within the State of Michigan, thereby generating increased entrepreneurial and enterprise-level opportunities within the mobile technology space and creating sustainable jobs”. The plan is to achieve this mission thru such vehicles as:

1) training / re-training
2) jobs development
3) creating industry awareness among Michigan’s consumers and businesses
4) creating entrepreneurial opportunities and resources
5) networking
6) collaboration with statewide, national and international organizations and corporations

To facilitate its efforts to achieve the continued growth of the mobile technology industry, MTAM is now accepting applications for the following types of memberships:

1) Charter
2) Corporate
3) Small Business
4) Individual
5) Student

Each membership level receives all the General Membership Benefits, as well as those designated for their selected membership level; additional benefits to those listed are being negotiated with regional and national firms, and will be added on an on-going basis. Membership is open to students, individuals and firms working in, or interested in learning about or using, mobile/wireless technologies. If you want to learn how these technologies can be beneficial to your business, MTAM will be an essential factor to that education; if you’re in the industry, MTAM will provide a wide variety of valuable tools and resources to help you achieve growth.

Founded by Linda Daichendt, CEO of Southfield-based Strategic Growth Concepts and Co-founder of Mobile Monday Michigan, the MTAM Board of Directors also includes: Cynthia Grubbs, Small Business Liaison with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (Detroit/Lansing); Paul Czarnik, Chief Technology Officer at Compuware (Detroit); Keith Bourne, Founder of Appervasive and Co-founder of Mobile Monday Michigan (Ann Arbor); Jonathan Engelsma, Professor at Grand Valley State University and Director of GVSU’s Mobile Applications Lab (Grand Rapids); and Jason Joseph, Director Technology and Information Solutions, Spectrum Health (Grand Rapids). Several additional Board members are pending. The group’s General Counsel is Mike Watza of Kitch Drutchas et al (Detroit).

The organization is currently operating out of Southfield, but seeking permanent offices in downtown Detroit from which it will work to facilitate industry growth throughout Michigan.

MTAM’s new website was provided by High-Level Marketing of Farmington Hills, and the mobile-optimized version was provided by Keego Harbor-based, Fourstream USA.

About The Mobile Technology Association of Michigan (MTAM)

The Mobile Technology Association of Michigan (MTAM) is a Michigan-based trade association for the mobile industry. Our mission is to grow the industry within the state, thereby generating increased entrepreneurial and enterprise-level opportunities within the mobile technology industry.

Our primary function: to foster cooperation between the various factions of the mobile industry and its professional associations globally, the State of Michigan, the investment community, the education community, and technology users to facilitate in-state growth of the industry.

MTAM sponsors Michigan-based growth of the Mobile Monday organization; performs research for members and other interested parties; facilitates idea sharing, entrepreneurial programs, training programs and jobs creation; acts as a liaison with the mobile community inside/outside of Michigan; and serves as a resource for all things related to the Mobile / Wireless industry. The group’s website can be found at http://www.GoMobileMichigan.org .

Organization: Mobile Technology Association of Michigan
Address: 21908 Evergreen Road, Southfield, MI 48075
Metro: Detroit, Michigan
Contact: Linda Daichendt
E-Mail: info@GoMobileMichigan.org
Tel: (248) 470-3257
Fax: (248) 350-9465

LinkedIn:
http://www.linkedin.com/company/mobile-technology-association-of-michigan

Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/MobileTechAssn

Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/MobileTechnologyAssociationOfMichigan