WTVB Business Beat

The Cameron Counseling Center of Cameron Memorial Community Hospital is pleased to announce the Indiana Addiction licensure of Rita Lechleidner, Director, LAC; Christine Sebring, LCAC, and Adelle Schwan, LCAC.  This licensing distinction is new in the state of Indiana.

Licensure as a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC) requires extensive experience in the addictions field, advanced certification by the Indiana Counselors Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse (ICAADA), a bachelor or master’s degree, and significant years of clinical work in the field of substance abuse and addiction.

Lechleidner has served as the director of the Cameron Counseling Center for over three years and has provided substance abuse counseling for over 19 years.  She holds the Indiana advanced certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor II (CADAC II) certification.

Sebring has been in the field of mental health and substance abuse counseling for twenty years and is also certified in Indiana at the advanced CADAC IV level.  She works part-time at the Cameron Counseling Center and has a private practice in Michigan. 

Schwan recently joined the Counseling Center’s staff, but has thirty years of experience in substance abuse.  She has been certified in Indiana at the CADAC II and Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) levels.

For more information, please contact (260) 668-7060.

Hard work and putting others before herself has earned Rita Liechty the Community Health Center of Branch County December Employee of the Month award.

Rita was hired March 12, 1981 on second shift as a Generalist Technologist.  She has worked in the blood bank and microbiology in the laboratory at CHC.  Currently Rita is a Medical Technologist in Pathology where she processes cytology, surgery specimens, performs special stains, helps to perform daily maintenance on the tissue processor and auto stainer, and orders supplies as needed.  According to her nominator, “Rita is one of the hardest working people that I know.  She is completely dedicated to providing high quality care to our patients.  At times Rita has put CHC and the department above her own wellbeing.  I think she deserves to be recognized for her dedication to CHC, her work and our patients.”

Rita graduated from Wakarusa High School in Wakarusa, Indiana.  She attendedGoshenCollegewith a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology.  Rita completed a 12 month Medical Technology internship at Penrose Hospital School of Medical Technology, Colorado Springs, CO.  She has been a registered Medical Technologist with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists since November 20, 1970. 

Rita has a son, Peter who is a neurosurgeon in Thibodaux, Louisiana, and a daughter, Anna who is a math teacher in Bristol, Rhode Island.  Rita enjoys attending theater and concert events at Tibbits and sewing when she finds the time.  She is a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Coldwater where she plays in the English Hand Bell Choir and sings in the choir.  Rita has been the church treasurer for the past four years.

The Laboratory provides a wide range of services which includes routine and STAT testing in the following areas:

Hematology, Coagulation, Urinalysis, Chemistry, Special Chemistry, Blood and               Histology, Cytology, Serology, Virology  

All sections of the department provide routine and STAT testing for both inpatient and outpatient populations.  The majority of the testing is processed as it is received and there is very little “batch” testing.  For those tests not done on site, CHC utilizes MLabs at theUniversityofMichiganfor the majority of reference laboratory services.  CHC’s Laboratory provides blood and blood products for transfusion.  These blood products are received from the American Red Cross inLansing,Michigan.  The Laboratory also provides oversight for point-of-care testing done by the nursing as well as testing done in any of CHC’s clinics.  The Laboratory provides community health screenings at both Community Fest and the Older American Health Fair.  On average the Laboratory department does approximately 24,000 billable tests per month.  There is an average of 100 outpatients per day.  In addition, the lab draws patients at The Laurels of Coldwater, Maple Lawn, Drew’s Place, and Masonville on a weekly basis.

The Community Health Center of Branch County is a non-profit acute care hospital providing access to safe, comprehensive, high quality healthcare services and accredited by The Joint Commission. For more information about CHC, please call the CHC Marketing Department at 517-279-5282 or visit the CHC website at www.chcbc.com or health website at myhealth.chcbc.com. 

The Branch County Association of REALTORS® held their monthly lunch meeting on January 25 at the Coldwater Elks with 43 members present. The meeting was lead by BCAR secretary, Jim Bowers. The program was presented by member, Chris Pierce who discussed new rules and regulations affecting appraisals and Doug Merriam from the Michigan Association of Realtors. Doug updated the group on the status of legislation impacting real estate. A fifty-fifty drawing was held with proceeds going to the Branch County United Way and the Sonshine Food Pantry.

Tibbits Opera Foundation and Arts Council, Inc. will hold its annual meeting at 5:45 pm, Thursday, January 26 at the opera house.

According to Randall Hazelbaker who is completing his term as Tibbits Board President, “it has been a busy year and we have much to share about what’s happening at our theatre.” He adds, “Most people are amazed to learn how much goes on at Tibbits and how truly complex the organization is.” The meeting for Branch County’s Center for arts and culture includes a review of the 2010-11 fiscal year, a financial report of the theatre and highlights for the year ahead, including the progress on the façade restoration.

The community and members of the Tibbits Foundation are invited to join the board of directors.  A reception in the lobby beginning at 5:15 pm will be followed by the annual meeting which will include an update from board president, Randall Hazelbaker. The annual board election will include renewal of board terms for Ray Sebastian and J. Richard Colbeck as well as election of one new board member.

Following the annual meeting the board will hold its annual organizational meeting at which they will elect the officers for 2012. Tibbits Opera House is located at 14 South Hanchett Street, Coldwater. For more information call 517-278-6029.

Ron Reed, President and CEO of Century Bank and Trust, has announced the appointment of Ginger J. Kesler to Vice President of Century Bank and Trust.

“Ginger is a key player to Century Bank and Trust’s everyday successful operation.  Her positive energy, vast experience and enjoyable management style are just a few of the qualities that make Ginger such a valuable part of our team,” Reed stated.

Kesler joined Century Bank and Trust in 1999 and has over 28 years of banking experience. Within the community, she is President of Altrusa International of Branch County, Chair of the Fibromyalgia support group in Branch County, Member of the Triad (Community, Police and Seniors) of Branch County, Member of the Branch Area Career Center’s On the Job Training Advisory Committee and active Relay for Life member.  In the past, Kesler has presented to school groups in honor of the American Bankers Association’s “Get Smart About Credit” and “Teach Children to Save Day” events. Ginger can be reached by phone at (517) 278-1532 or by e-mail atGingerKesler@centurybt.com

Century Bank and Trust was founded in 1890, as an independent community bank. As an independent community bank, Century Bank and Trust makes its business decisions locally for the continued success of its customers.   Century's goal is to keep the local area's communities financially strong and growing and Century uses its deposits to make loans to local businesses and retail customers so the money stays within the community.

Specializing in building relationships with its customers and communities, Century focuses on long-term, multiple account relationships and customized products that fit customer needs.

Within the community, Century Bank and Trust, is proud to support over 250 local charities, events and organizations.  

To learn more about Century Bank and Trust visitCenturyBankandTrust.com or call Toll Free (866) 680-2265.  

The Michigan State Police Coldwater Post will be hosting a two hour Recruiting Orientation on Saturday February 4^th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Michigan State Police Coldwater Post Conference Room (186 E State Street Coldwater).

This two hour orientation is open to the public who have or may have an interest in Law Enforcement and a career with the Michigan State Police. The Michigan State Police is preparing to run aRecruitSchoolAcademyin the upcoming summer months.

The presentation will cover the Selection Process to become a Trooper, Academy Training Expectations and Responsibilities of the Michigan State Police. Trooper Miller encourages people who do attend to also bring their spouses to this presentation. If you have questions prior to the orientation please contact Trooper Jereme Miller of the MSP Coldwater Post at (517)278-2373

Ron Reed, President and CEO of Century Bank and Trust, has announced the appointment of Ron H. Uhl to Vice President of Information Technology at Century Bank and Trust.

“Ron is a key part of our continued success at Century Bank and Trust.  His high standards and commitment to an interruption free working environment make our daily banking tasks easy. We look forward to seeing Ron lead our technology area into the future,” Reed stated.

Uhl joined Century Bank and Trust in 2002 and with over 17 years of banking experience, he has overall responsibility for the Network Team and Data Processing Department at Century Bank and Trust.  He is a graduate of Cornerstone University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Business Administration. 

Within the community, Uhl is Director of the children’s AWANA program and Deacon at Berean Baptist Church.  He is also a board member of the Fiserv Great Lakes User Group, member of the MBA Technology Forum, a Michigan Bankers Association member and assists in the internship program for the Branch Area Career Center.

Century Bank and Trust was founded in 1890, as an independent community bank. As an independent community bank, Century Bank and Trust makes its business decisions locally for the continued success of its customers.   Century's goal is to keep the local area's communities financially strong and growing and Century uses its deposits to make loans to local businesses and retail customers so the money stays within the community.

Specializing in building relationships with its customers and communities, Century focuses on long-term, multiple account relationships and customized products that fit customer needs.

Within the community, Century Bank and Trust, is proud to support over 250 local charities, events and organizations.  

To learn more about Century Bank and Trust visitCenturyBankandTrust.com or call Toll Free (866) 680-2265.  

The Branch District Library, headquartered in Coldwater, Michigan, seeks a new Director for a six-branch library system, serving the entire county. The Director will manage a staff of 19 FTE and $1,000,000 budget to provide outstanding library service and to set the course for future growth and development. BDL serves a population of 47,000 and is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees.

MLS plus 4 years post-degree paid professional experience required. Salary range of $58,000 to $65,000 commensurate with experience, plus health, dental, vision insurance, retirement contribution, and two professional memberships.

For complete job description, all requirements, and application, see www.BranchDistrictLibrary.org/employment. In addition to application, submit cover letter and resume with at least three professional references to Gina Horn at secretary@BranchDistrictLibrary.org by March 16, 2012, though the position will remain open until a qualified candidate is found.

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Just a reminder that the Quincy Historical Society annual meeting and potluck dinner are this Thursday, January 19,  at the United Methodist Church at 6 p.m.  The agenda includes the presentation of the Residential Preservation Award to Kevin, Amy and Anthony Paradine in recognition of their efforts to preserve their home and carriage house at 70 W. Chicago Street.

The Commercial Preservation Award will recognize Jan Reynolds for preservation and enhancement of 5 East Chicago, the location of the Tracy Richer-Edward Jones office.

An election of Board members,  and annual reports from the Treasurer and President are also on the agenda.  Memberships may be renewed or opened at the annual meeting and 2012 historic photo calendars will also be available.

As with all the meetings, the annual meeting is open to the public and guests are welcome

Ron Reed, President and CEO of Century Bank and Trust, is pleased to announce the promotion of Dylan M. Foster to First Vice President of Century Bank and Trust.

“Dylan’s promotion is in recognition of his dedication to growing Century’s Trust and Investment Management Group while keeping the client’s best interest at heart,” stated Reed.

With over ten years of financial service experience, Foster is a graduate of Western Michigan University and the Cannon Trust School.  He also holds certification as a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor and is an active Coldwater Rotarian.  In addition he is the Treasurer of the Calhoun County Estate Planners Council. 

The Trust and Investment Management Group specializes in both trust and investment management for individuals, businesses and municipalities.  In addition, the group also offers estate, financial, tax and retirement planning services.

Dylan can be reached at (517) 278-1586 or by e-mail at DylanFoster@centurybt.com

Century Bank and Trust was founded in 1890, as an independent community bank. As an independent community bank, Century Bank and Trust makes its business decisions locally for the continued success of its customers.   Century's goal is to keep the local area's communities financially strong and growing and Century uses its deposits to make loans to local businesses and retail customers so the money stays within the community.

Specializing in building relationships with its customers and communities, Century focuses on long-term, multiple account relationships and customized products that fit customer needs.

Within the community, Century Bank and Trust, is proud to support over 250 local charities, events and organizations. To learn more about Century Bank and Trust visitCenturyBankandTrust.com or call Toll Free (866) 680-2265.  

The Gotta Golf Shop will soon be open for business in Coldwater. The golf-related business, owned by Ben Eby of Coldwater, opens Monday, January 9 at 28 South Hanchett Street, just south of the Tibbits Opera House. The Gotta Golf Shop will feature a Golf Simulated Driving Range and Golf Courses, where up to 4 players can play 9 or 18 holes. Prices will be $20 per hour for 1 player and then $5 per hour for each additional player.

According to their new Facebook page, men's, women's and junior clubs will be available for purchase as well as other golf accessories. Hours will be 10am - 6pm, Monday through Friday and 10am - 2pm on Saturday.

 Meantime, The Boathouse Restaurant at Coldwater Lake has announced they will be closed through the end of January for our annual shutdown. Boathouse management say they apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but look forward to serving customers again soon.

The Community Health Center of Branch County (CHC)’s Medical Records Department is changing their name.  As of January 1, 2012, CHC Medical Records will be called the CHC Health Information Management Department. 

The name change reflects CHC’s position in keeping with the industry standards in securing quality and accuracy in the way health care information is collected, processed, and managed.  These industry changes will ensure improvement in patient care, safety, confidentiality, and privacy.  The changes will also allow CHC to work within the hospital and with other agencies to control the cost of health care. 

Why Health IT?

Health information technology (health IT) makes it possible for health care providers to better manage patient care through secure use and sharing of health information. Health IT includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) instead of paper medical records to maintain people's health information.

Improving Patient Care

With the help of health IT, health care providers will have:

• Accurate and complete information about a patient's health. That way they can give the best possible care, whether during a routine visit or a medical emergency.
• The ability to better coordinate the care they give. This is especially important if a patient has a serious medical condition.
• A way to securely share information with patients and their family caregivers over the Internet, for patients who opt for this convenience. This means patients and their families can more fully take part in decisions about their health care.
• Information to help doctors diagnose health problems sooner, reduce medical errors, and provide safer care at lower costs.

Improving Our Nation's Health Care System

Widespread use of health IT can also:

• Make our health care system more efficient and reduce paperwork for patients and doctors.
• Expand access to affordable care.
• Build a healthier future for our nation.

In recent months the Health Information Management Department not only managed the change from paper medical records to electronic records, but staff also has the responsibility of safeguarding the confidentiality of protected health information by obtaining proper authorization for disclosure.  Staff collects, analyzes, and reports statistical health information.  The Health Information Management Department works with other departments to develop policies for accurate documentation of health information.  They work with other departments and regulatory agencies to analyze and evaluate the requirement that maximizes reimbursements while providing quality care to the community.  CHC advocates a system to electronically exchange health information in times of emergencies as well as day to day patient care.

The Community Health Center of Branch County is a non-profit acute care hospital providing access to safe, comprehensive, high quality healthcare services and accredited by The Joint Commission.  For more information about CHC, please call the CHC Marketing Department at 517-279-5282 or visit the CHC website at www.chcbc.com or health website at myhealth.chcbc.com.  Join us on Facebook today!