Zingerman's Shares Leadership Philosophy

What do Zingerman’s and The Center have in common? 

Zingerman’s is, of course, the renowned Ann Arbor company noted for its great food and service.   The Center recently hosted a half-day presentation by Zingerman’s at its annual staff retreat, exploring a philosophy known as “servant leadership.”

Giving great service to staff is one of the important components of Zingerman’s great service to its customers.   At its Dec. 16 retreat The Center team learned about this leadership philosophy, and how it can supplement The Center’s long-standing commitment to client service.

An added bonus were all the tasty Zingerman’s  foods we all shared during breakfast!

Gregg Bloomfield, Matt Chope, Amanda Toia, Troy Wyman, Tim Wyman

Jaclyn Jackson, Melissa Cyrus 

M.L. King Holiday Market Closure

Financial markets close several times a year in the U.S., including on several national holidays.

The Jan. 16 Martin Luther King Day holiday is one such market closure; The Center will remain open on this holiday, but will be closed for the Presidents Day markets closure on Feb. 20.

The Center Honored as AHA 2011 Start! Fit-Friendly Platinum Status Company

For four consecutive years the Center has been recognized as an American Heart Association Start! Fit-Friendly Company. 

For the most recent two years the firm received Platinum status, the highest recognition level.

To achieve this award the health and wellness program met the following criteria:

•  Physical activity options in the workplace
• Healthy eating options at the worksite
• Promotion of a wellness culture
• Implement at least nine criteria outlined by the AHA in the areas of physical activity, nutrition  and culture
• Demonstrate measurable outcomes related to workplace wellness.

A Time to Give Thanks!

                  

Dear Clients and Friends,

By the time you receive this note of gratitude, Thanksgiving may have come and gone.  We trust that you paused, at least for a moment, to reflect on all there is to be grateful for too.   While this message is not in the form of a traditional Thanksgiving Day card, we are thankful for the opportunity to work on your behalf.  After celebrating 25 years recently, we couldn’t be more grateful to all of you who have contributed to making The Center the special place it is today.

Simply put, we love what we do and your continued confidence and trust inspires us to show our gratitude each and every day.   We hope our enthusiasm has shone through over the years and will continue to shine bright for many years to come. 

Best Wishes from The Center family to your family . . .  Happy Holiday Season!

Jennie Bauder, Jennifer Hackmann, Marilynn Levin, Amanda Toia, Jaclyn Jackson, Melissa Joy, Angela Palacios, Gregg Bloomfield, Gerri Harmer, Betsey Schrock, Brenda Spencer , Sandy Adams, Dan Boyce, Matt Chope, Marilyn Gunther, Julie Hall, Laurie Renchik, Troy Wyman, Tim Wyman

Changes to Mutual Fund Cost Basis Reporting

As of January 1, 2011, a new law - part of the Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 - requires Raymond James (along with all broker/dealers, banks, custodians and transfer agents) to capture and report to the IRS detailed information on covered securities sales. 

• This change only affects taxable accounts.
• To select the average cost method, a signed Cost Basis Election form will be submitted to Raymond James on behalf of Center clients.
• Center clients will receive a letter outlining important details and the Cost Basis Election form by email or regular mail in the month of November.

 Please feel free to contact your planner at 248-948-7900 with questions. 

South Oakland Lunch Program – Another Rewarding Experience!

In support of the South Oakland Community Lunch Program, now in its 17th year, The Center volunteered to prepare and serve a warm meal for 60 to 80 eager patrons.  The Center team has served this Saturday free lunch program in downtown Royal Oak at least annually for over 10 years.

The following day Tim Wyman sent all concerned an informal but hearfelt message that helped sum up the experience:

“Nice job with the South Oakland Community Lunch Program once again! The cookers prepared a great meal….and the servers….well they were spectacular. Amanda is to be congratulated on her goulash serving skills – well done! Thanks to Jen for coordinating the effort – everything was in order and really helped for a successful event. I trust that everyone involved felt a great sense of satisfaction (not the word I am looking for – but hopefully you know what I mean). For many of Saturday’s guests it was truly a treat – and a good reminder as to how lucky we all are. For me personally, having my boys with me was so much more meaningful than just telling them how fortunate we are and that they should give back. Thanks to The Center for providing the opportunity.”

Please visit the Saturday Community Lunch Program Facebook Page to learn more about the program and volunteer opportunities.

SEP IRA Contribution for 2011 Tax Year

FINAL REMINDER

Self-employed business owners have until October 15 to establish and contribute to a SEP IRA for the year 2011. Assuming you've filed a tax extension, owners have until the due date of the business's federal income tax return. 

Please contact your Center planner for additional information.