Registration is officially open for Michigan commercial and industrial buildings of all sizes interested in joining the U.S. Green Building Council of West Michigan's (USGBCWM) second annual Battle of the Buildings competition. The statewide competition is an expansion of the Battle of the Buildings that started in West Michigan last year.

Battle of the Buildings is an awards and recognition program for energy use reduction. The competition is a way to encourage energy-efficient practices in buildings across the state of Michigan and to instill a spirit of friendly competition among the area’s building owners and operators. Steelcase, Western Michigan University and Nichols have already committed for the 2015 competition totaling over 3,000,000 sq. feet.

NORTON SHORES, Mich.—A West Michigan family received three surprises while shopping at Meijer for the holidays.

Not only did the store cover Elizabeth Flores’ bill, but co-chairman Doug Meijer and other team members surprised Flores with items that didn’t make it into her grocery cart.  During her trip down the aisles, Flores picked up some gifts, but eventually returned them to store shelves because she was worried she couldn’t pay for them.  Little did she know, Doug Meijer and store employees were picking up those discarded items to surprise her with at checkout.  Doug Meijer also added a bicycle and helmet to Flores’ complimentary order, for her 7-year-old son, Octavio.

Meijer picked up the tab for 213 shoppers this season, as part of its inaugural Very Merry Meijer event on Dec. 13.  Co-chairman Hank Meijer and President J.K. Symancyk also took part in the giveaway at the 28th Street and Plainfield Avenue stores, respectively.

MUSKEGON, Mich.—  A Muskegon boutique is celebrating its new location with a grand opening event this Wednesday.

Sparrow Boutique will be offering coupons, a giveaway and beverages as part of its grand opening event, which runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  Dec. 10. The store recently moved one door over, into a larger space at 255 Seminole Road.  The women’s clothing store will now offer additional brands and clothing options to customers.

For additional event information, visit Sparrow Boutique’s website.