Burke Advertising News & Blog

Ripano Stoneworks stands apart in the market by being on the cutting edge in the granite and natural stone countertop fabrication industry. It's one of the reasons they were named National Fabricator of the Year. At Rivier College, they're preparing the future's business leaders with a hands-on MBA program that gets students out of the classroom to see first-hand how leading business theories are put into use. Rivier College MBA students recently toured the Ripano Stoneworks fabrication shop to understand the practical application of lean manufacturing processes they were learning in the classroom. They also got an opportunity to see the innovative technologies Ripano is applying to the countertop fabrication process. Said one Rivier student, "That's an example of the true entrepreneurial spirit that drives this great country. Ripano really seems to have it all together. Great products, "cutting" edge technology, and more importantly, great ideas!"

Case Study: Combating a crisis of confidence By Matt Ellis & Jack Heath Recently, one of Massachusetts best known companies found itself combating a crisis of confidence. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts has earned a solid reputation for providing an affordable solution to health care costs. But, that reputation took a hit when the news media reported the company's former chief executive was handed an $11 million golden parachute. It got worse when the media published the salaries of the Blue Cross board of directors. The group of high profile Boston business and academic leaders was earning large, five figure salaries to conduct board business. Why did this new ignite a firestorm of negative press? Health care costs are a top concern for citizens, politicians and small business owners. On its website, Blue Cross Blue Shield says, "Our highest priority is to make health care affordable." But, in light of the headlines and TV reports, that didn't seem t