Grand Rapids Business Journal 07.12.21 by Grand Rapids Business Journal

LEAVE THIS SPACE BLANK FOR GRBJ NAMEPLATE

CURIOUS?

6.8025” WIDE X 2.67” TALL

SHOW YOU

LET US AROUND.

The Business Newspaper of Metro Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon & West Michigan

This is the life AT BEACON HILL AT EASTGATE

10.625” WIDE X 14.5” TALL C1

LEAVE THIS SPACE BLANK FOR GRBJ MAILING LABEL

Inside Track ...... 11 Guest Columns.. 16 Reopening Michigan Change-Ups ..... 20 Calendar .......... 20

6.3611” WIDE X 2.492” TALL

Public Record .... 21 Street Talk ...... 22

1919 BOSTON STREET SE GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49506 616-608-8254 BEACONHILLGR.ORG

WE FEATURE CLASSES, ACTIVITIES & AMENITIES

Designed with you in mind Our residents enjoy a rich lifestyle with entertainment, meaning and purpose, thanks to the community’s social, spiritual, recreational, educational and cultural programs. And these amenities are all right here on our campus, steps away from your door. Plus, you’ll enjoy our proximity to everything Grand Rapids has to offer.

Social events 10.375” WIDE X 14.5” TALL Music concerts & other live entertainment Fitness classes, including aerobics, Pilates C2 n n n

& aqua aerobics

IT’S ALL HAPPENING RIGHT HERE. BEACONHILLGR.ORG

Outings to shopping, attractions & events

Holiday & themed parties

Resident-sponsored activity groups

Book & current events discussion groups

Informative lectures with guest speakers

Poetry/play readings

Art classes & craft workshops

Volunteer opportunities

Weekly chapel & discipleship opportunities

THE BEACON HILL

Active, lively community HIGHLIGHTS HEALTH & WELLNESS IN EVERY WAY With the addition of the brand-new “Balance at Beacon Hill,” we are dedicated to the health and wellness of all our residents and to help you live the retirement you imagined and feel great doing it! The Balance programming is designed to incorporate your physical, social, and personal needs, and includes dedicated spaces for fitness, mindfulness, art and other creative expression. Our Wellness Coordinator

offers residents an assortment of educational programs designed to focus on overall well-being. Strength and balance, fall prevention, and healthy eating education increases the overall quality of life for Beacon Hill at Eastgate residents.

10.375” WIDE X 14.5” TALL C3 Balance at Beacon Hill amenities and programming include: n

One-on-one evaluation sessions

A full range of strength training equipment

New, light-filled spaces for a variety of classes

Dedicated space for the arts

Indoor swimming pool & whirlpool

A wide range of group activities: • • • •

Water aerobics Tai Chi Chair excercise Yoga

• • • •

Pilates Balance training Cardio aerobics Lawn games

Customized personal workouts

Healthy living education

10.625” WIDE X 14.5” TALL C4 We celebrate every day with good food, priding ourselves A TRUE CULINARY

Experience

on our farm-to-fork practices. Under the direction of our Executive Chef, we serve seasonally-driven fare at our four distinct restaurants. Meet friends for lunch in the sunny, airy café, grab a coffee and a pastry crafted daily by our full-time pastry chef, or enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of our relaxing dining rooms. When you’re in the mood for a cozy night at home, our residences are equipped with state-of-the-art kitchens, allowing you the flexibility to cook when you want to.

LIVE WELL, EAT WELL. BEACONHILLGR.ORG

MICHIGAN Music Alliance seeks to connect industry. PAGE 3

JULY 12, 2021 VOL. 39, NO. 14

The Business Newspaper of Metro Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon & West Michigan

THIS WEEK

TRAILBLAZING DENTAL CARE

With few role models to follow, Dr. Deborah Brown is blazing her own trail at My Community Dental Centers. Page 11

Post-COVID survey shows entry-level pay rising The Employers’ Association polled members on their efforts to attract workers amid talent war. Rachel Watson

rwatson@grbj.com

Thanks, bud Report finds state’s burgeoning cannabis industry has ‘unlimited economic potential.’ PAGE 3

Zero hero Consumers Energy speeds up deadline by 15 years to stop using coal as fuel source. PAGE 4

VIRTUAL HUG Faith Hospice will continue leaning on technology for bereavement support services. Page 9

THE LISTS

The area’s top health care education programs Page 6 The area’s top senior residential communities Page 8

A new survey shows employers are raising entry-level pay for manufacturing and office jobs as the postCOVID-19 talent battle heats up. The Employers’ Association in Grand Rapids (TEA) — a not-forprofit membership organization that provides human resources support — last month published the results of its Planning for Post COVID-19 2021 survey, which polled 113 West Michigan TEA member organizations on the average and range of pay for positions broken out by company

Entry-level pay for office workers in West Michigan averages around $15 per hour, according to a survey by The Employers’ Association. Courtesy iStock

size, industry type and profit/nonprofit status. In addition, respondents reported whether they provide any form of bonus for entry-level jobs and what they are doing to attract workers. Some of the report’s key findings: • The most common hourly pay rate for entry-level manufacturing

jobs is $15; the average is $14. • In the past six months, the average percent increase of starting pay rates for manufacturing jobs was 8%; the most common percent increase was 3%. • For office jobs, the most common hourly rate is $15.78, and the average is $15. • In the past six months, the

most common percent increase of starting pay for office jobs was 3%; the average was 6%. • In the next six months, employers anticipate an average entry-level pay increase of 6% for manufacturing jobs and 5% for office jobs. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

RPC launches loan readiness training course The Pre-Loan Readiness and Incubator pilot is helping participants get their financial ducks in a row. Rachel Watson

rwatson@grbj.com

Rende Progress Capital has launched another component of its mission to help excluded entrepreneurs of color get the financing they need for their businesses. Grand Rapids-based racial equity lending firm RPC on June 24 launched a nine-week pilot course dubbed the Pre-Loan Readiness and Incubator Program with support from Fifth Third Bank and the

U.S. Treasury Community Development Financial Institution Fund. John Hendershot, business development director for RPC, helped the firm build and structure the program and is teaching the courses. “We’re going to be focusing on a lot of things that other nonprofit organizations don’t necessarily hit on, which are just as important as the marketing and pitching,” Hendershot said. “We’re more focused on the financial aspect, making sure that a business sets up a firm foundation, making sure that they have the correct licenses, know how to read P&Ls, use accounting software, those types of things, because we believe that those are the necessary tenets to have a strong loan application and a strong business.”

Thirteen business owners of color who have not been able to secure loans from traditional lenders will participate in the inaugural cohort, which had an enrollment fee of $50. If participants complete the full program, they will receive a financial award of $1,000 each. According to Eric Foster, RPC co-founder, chair and managing director, the program is for: 1. Introducing excluded entrepreneurs of color to RPC. 2. Teaching them techniques for loan preparedness. 3. Providing counseling in financial principles within the RPC loan application process. 4. Completing simulated business planning and mock loan applications for review and feedback to prepare participants for the RPC

Inside Track....... 11 Guest Columns... 16 Reopening Michigan

REPORT: Beer is booming in Michigan.

Change-Ups...... 20 Calendar........... 20 Public Record..... 21 Street Talk ....... 22

PAGE 3

lending application process in future. RPC’s goal since its founding in 2018 has been to respond with innovation to lending barriers that excluded entrepreneurs of Hendershot color face, both capital and noncapital, Foster said. The Pre-Loan Readiness and Incubator Program was developed to: • Provide a deep, interactive and resource-awarding program to provide excluded entrepreneurs of color with additional knowledge beyond the standard technical assistance RPC offers. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Your business is always on. Your internet should be too.

With AT&T Internet for Business, you get fast, highly reliable internet that’s made for business. It features Internet Backup, so even if the power goes out, our wireless network automatically keeps you connected. Go to att.com/BizInternet or call 855-432-1500 to learn more.

Ranked #1 Highest in Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power among Small/Medium Business Wireline Service For J.D. Power 2020 award information, visit jdpower.com/awards

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Michigan Music Alliance seeks to connect industry Organization launches databases covering artists, venues and recording studios. dnelson@grbj.com

Ehren Wynder

ewynder@grbj.com

because of the COVID-19 pandemic and supported local restaurants and their employees.” On the national scale, the beer industry accounted for roughly 2 million jobs, paying $102.9 billion in wages and benefits and generating $55.2 billion in taxes. Brewpubs and small micro-brewers number in the thousands across the U.S., and most of the growth in establishments is coming from local and regional brewing operations. Of course, the beer industry didn’t come out of 2020 unscathed. The government-imposed shutdowns in response to COVID-19 proved to be significant obstacles to growth. Six hundred small breweries closed permanently due to the COVID-19 shutdowns, according to the report. Nearly 150,800 jobs were lost because beer could not be sold at restaurants, entertainment venues and bars. Even as the volume of beer sold rose slightly over the past year, sales fell by over $8 billion as consumers purchased less premium beer. Since the COVID outbreak, there has been a shift away from more expensive local beers in bars and restaurants to beers produced by national brewers and importers, which are generally more readily available for off-premises sale, the report said.

Michigan had a nearly $3.2 billion cannabis market in 2020, with almost 400 licensed medical provisioning centers and 300 licensed adult-use retail stores. Despite this, Illicit sales continue to be Michiganders’ primary mode of procuring cannabis, despite recreational use being legal since 2018. The Michigan Cannabis Manufacturers Association commissioned Anderson Economic Group for a major economic study pertaining to Michigan’s growing cannabis industry. “The Anderson Economic Group study reflects a vibrant regulated marketplace with unlimited economic potential,” said Shelly Edgerton, MCMA board chair. “This includes continually growing demand for medical and adult-use cannabis across the state. The study also suggests continued growth in state revenues for schools, senior programs and other essential services. That’s good for all Michiganders, regardless if you consume cannabis.” Medicinal cannabis has been legal in Michigan for over a dozen years and the state concluded its first year of adult-use sales in 2020. In 2020, cannabis retail stores sold $985 million in cannabis products. The commercial cannabis industry also generated $129 million in taxes and fees. This includes sales and excise tax revenue; grower, processor and retailer license fees; and registration fees for medical patients. The number of cannabis users in the state has grown by 75% since 2010. In 2020, one in five, or roughly 2 million Michigan residents, used cannabis. Roughly 80% of Michiganders also live within a 20-minute drive of a medical provisioning center or adult-use store. Consumers in Michigan can acquire cannabis through multiple channels, including home cultivation, from a designated medical caregiver, purchasing cannabis from a medical provisioning or adult-use retail store, or purchasing from an illicit seller. “Our research shows that legal cannabis provides a number of benefits to Michigan, including assurances that Michiganders have access to a safe product that generates tax revenues for state and local government,” said Brian Peterson, Anderson Economic Group director of public policy and economic analysis. “Our research also shows that a large amount of cannabis comes from sources that are not subject to the state’s safety testing requirements. Transactions from these sources typically do not produce tax revenue.” The MCMA also expressed

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

The Crane Wives performs before a live audience prior to the pandemic. Courtesy Elle Lively57

Artists can join the Michigan Artist Database with information that includes their names, names of their bands, links to their website, streaming services, social media handles and the genre of their music. The lists of venues and studios are compiled by a team of interns from across the state who are working for MMA this summer. Some of the interns are college students from Ferris State,

Wayne State and Grand Valley State universities. The Michigan Venue Database includes the location and type of venues, capacity limits, contact information, website links and social media information. The Michigan Recording Studio Database includes studio names, locations, contact information and social media handles. Lively said by June MMA had well over 100 venues listed in the

database, which she said she expects to only continue to grow. Some of those include Frederik Meijer Gardens, the Listening Room, Pyramid Scheme, the Intersection, different breweries and coffee shops. “All of our studio partners are in the database, so it is about 15 at the moment. But we are really hoping that studio owners, engiCONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Report: Beer is booming in Michigan Industry supported almost 67,000 jobs in 2020. Ehren Wynder

ewynder@grbj.com

Michigan’s beer industry is a nearly $10 billion business, according to a recent report. The Beer Serves American report, authored by the National Beer Wholesalers Association and the Beer Institute, found Michigan’s beer industry had an overall economic impact of $9.9 billion in 2020 and supported almost 67,000 jobs at breweries, distributors, retailers and more. “Michigan’s independent, locally owned beer distributors are proud to work hand-in-glove with brewers big and small right here in Michigan, across the country and around the world to help them grow and thrive on a level playing field,” said Spencer Nevins, president of the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association. “This new data makes clear that Michigan is not just the Great Lakes State but also the Great Beer State, and Michigan’s beer distributors are proud to play a role in the beer industry’s continued success.” Beer Serves America measures the impact of the malt bever-

Budding industry nears $3.2B Study reflects vibrant cannabis marketplace with ‘unlimited economic potential.’

Danielle Nelson

Musicians in the state now have more resources available to them as they navigate the new normal in their industry, courtesy of the Michigan Music Alliance (MMA). The organization recently launched three new online databases that are designed to serve as resources for the Michigan music industry as they search artists, venues and recording studios. “This is about collaboration over competition and killing the ‘starving artist’ mentality,” Elle Lively, executive director of MMA, said. “In post-pandemic where things are going to be a lot different than they were before, such as how bookings work and how venues pay bands, the theory is that if we work together, we can all be stronger and more successful by sharing those resources and making more lasting connections by leaning on each other instead of each trying to do their own thing and creating their databases. (It) is great that everyone can, but just to create a master one, where people can offer up their information and add their venues and add their studios so that we are all looking at the same starting point can hopefully help people, especially those who are just getting started on the music scene.”

Beer’s overall impact on the state’s economy is pegged at $9.9 million. Courtesy iStock

age industry — as defined by its three tiers: brewing, wholesaling and retailing — on the entire U.S. economy. Overall, the industry contributes $331.8 billion in economic output, equivalent to about 1.6% of GDP. In Michigan, the beer industry produced 66,990 total jobs, 1,924 of which were in brewing, 4,866 were in distribution, 26,256 were in retail, 1,223 were agriculture related, and 2,789 were in manufacturing.

Altogether these jobs paid Michigan workers $3 billion in wages and benefits and generated $1.5 billion in taxes for the state. “Michigan’s beer distributors have deep roots in the communities they serve,” Nevins said. “That was on display throughout 2020 as our members partnered with local distilleries to produce and deliver hand sanitizer to front-line medical workers and nursing homes when there was a worldwide shortage

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Consumers Energy speeds up transition to zero coal Three plants in Holland would be retired by 2025, years ahead of schedule. Ehren Wynder

ewynder@grbj.com

Consumers Energy recently announced a sweeping proposal to stop using coal as a fuel source for electricity by 2025 — 15 years faster than currently planned. The new plan would make the

utility one of the first in the nation to go coal-free and provide a 20-year blueprint to meet Michigan’s energy needs while protecting the environment for future generations. “We are proud to lead Michigan’s clean energy transformation and be one of the first utilities in the country to end coal use,” said President and CEO Garrick Rochow. “We are committed to being a force of change and good stewards of our environment, producing reliable, affordable energy for our customers while caring for our communi-

ties during this transition.” The plan still requires approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission. If approved, Consumers expects to: • Be among the first utilities in the nation to go coal-free by 2025 • Use 90% clean energy resources by 2040 • Build nearly 8,000 megawatts of solar energy to power Michigan’s homes and businesses by 2040 • Stay on the path to achieve net zero carbon emissions • Save customers about $650 million through 2040

The updated plan also would speed closure of the utility’s three coal-fired units at the Campbell generating complex near Holland. Campbell 1 and 2 are collectively capable of producing more than 600 megawatts of electricity. Under the new plan, the plants would retire in 2025 — roughly six years sooner than their scheduled design lives. Campbell 3, capable of generating 840 MW, also would retire in 2025 — roughly 15 years sooner than its scheduled design life. The updated proposal also calls for moving up closure of Karn 3

Commercial Real Estate Leaders in West Michigan Commercial Real Estate Leaders around the World NAI Wisinski of West Michigan is headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI and maintains a second location in Kalamazoo, MI. Our company provides all facets of commercial real estate services, including brokerage and property management, throughout the entire West Michigan region. Through our relationship with NAI Global, we have access to over 300 affiliate offices worldwide.

Grand Rapids Office 616 776 0100 naiwwm.com

Industrial

Office

Retail

Multifamily

Investment

Kalamazoo Office 269 353 0311

Property Management

and 4, units that run on natural gas and fuel oil and can generate more than 1,100 MW to meet peak demand, to 2023 — about eight years sooner than their design lives. Consumers expects renewable fuel sources such as solar and wind will comprise more than 60% of its electric capacity by 2040. Combining that growth with advances in energy storage and customer efficiency will allow the utility to meet customers’ needs with 90% renewable resources. The transition to renewable sources includes the addition of nearly 8,000 megawatts of solar power. Consumers’ solar rampup has started and will continue throughout the 2020s. The company currently operates solar power plants at Western Michigan University, Grand Valley State University and in Cadillac, and purchases solar generation from several sites in Michigan. To ensure continued reliable energy for the Midwest during its transition away from coal, the company also proposed buying four existing natural gas-fired power plants in the state: Covert Generating Station in Van Buren County, Dearborn Industrial Generation in Wayne County, Kalamazoo River Generating Station in Kalamazoo County and Livingston Generating Station in Otsego County. By using natural gas as a fuel source to generate base load power, customers will save approximately $650 million through 2040 compared to the current plan, according to Consumers. The proposed purchases require state and federal regulatory approvals. The Kalamazoo River and Livingston plants are smaller and used primarily to meet peak demand. The natural gas plants — along with Consumers’ current natural gas-fired power plants in Zeeland and Jackson — would supply reliable electricity for homes and businesses as the company invests more heavily in renewable energy and continues to explore emerging technology to minimize impact on the environment. Prior to Consumers’ announcement, environmental, community and legislative leaders called on Consumers Energy to take bolder action with its plan to end coal use, including retiring the J.H. Campbell plant in West Olive by this decade and ensuring a just transition for those workers and impacted communities. After the utility unveiled its new plan, however, the groups expressed approval of the ambitious proposals, while still holding out hopes for the removal of fossil fuels from the utility’s grid entirely. “We appreciate Consumers’ commitment to move beyond coal and not to create new fracked gas infrastructure, unlike DTE, who have used every opportunity to double down on coal and fossil fuels,” said Mike Berkowitz, Michigan Beyond Coal Campaign representative for the Sierra Club. “This is a vital step in addressing the climate crises and the health impacts of dirty energy generation. We hope that Consumers makes equally aggressive plans as they look forward to moving beyond fossil fuels altogether.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Post-COVID survey shows entry-level pay rising Budding CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

• The majority of respondents (65%) are offering a referral bonus over a sign-on bonus (14%). • The average referral bonus is $713, while the average sign-on bonus is $665. • Just over half (51%) of employers plan to offer hybrid remote/ in-person options going forward.

“Everybody and their brother is thinking that they have to be competitive on the entry-level rates, so we thought, ‘Well, let’s just see what (members) are actually doing about it.’” Maggie McPhee Maggie McPhee, director, information services for TEA, spoke to the Business Journal about the survey report, which she said her organization created to help members with benchmarking and bet-

ter understanding the market. “We were getting so many calls and questions in our monthly round tables and things like that about what are you doing about entry level pay?” McPhee said. “Does it help to attract any good candidates? Everybody and their brother is thinking that they have to be competitive on the entry-level rates, so we thought, ‘Well, let’s just see what (members) are actually doing about it.’” In addition to asking questions about salaries, sign-on bonuses and referral bonuses, at the end of the survey, TEA included two open-ended questions asking respondents to share what other bonuses they might offer for entry-level jobs and what else they are doing to attract workers to their company. Other perks employers said they are offering included quarterly and year-end bonuses, profit-sharing, employee engagement activities, free YMCA memberships, child care discounts, rides to work, professional development and more. McPhee said two main themes emerged from those final questions. “Benefits and schedule flex-

ibility are the two big things that (employers said they) were doing for new hires — just trying to get applicants to understand their benefits package, changing McPhee features around their benefit package, making benefits accessible earlier than what they normally would be, things like that,” she said. Employers listed shortening the benefit waiting period from 90 days to 30 days, offering free health care and life insurance after 60 days, or fully paid health premiums after 90 days, giving new employees immediate paid time off and holidays, increasing their 401(k) matches, providing tuition reimbursement, offering paid volunteer days, and creating incentives for completing wellness milestones. On the flexibility side, employers said they were offering a fourday work week, summer hours, part-time schedules, flex time and

remote work options. McPhee said TEA is unsure whether it will conduct a follow-up survey to this one, but it would be interesting to see which of the different measures employers are taking to attract workers will prove successful — especially considering federal enhanced unemployment benefits are ending, and there may be more people looking for work this fall. “The only other thing that I would add would be that (employers are) not alone,” McPhee said. “Everybody’s going through this. It just depends on the size of your company — the number of openings that everybody has are relative to their size. I hear 26, I hear 35, I hear 17, and smaller companies are going to have fewer openings, obviously. The only thing I can suggest based on conversations would be for anybody who has concerns (about the talent crisis) to contact their legislators.” More information about the report is available by contacting McPhee at mcphee@teagr.org or the Employers’ Association at teagr.org.

RPC launches loan readiness training course CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

• Address the opportunity and information barriers that excluded entrepreneurs face in loan application procedures due to not having opportunities to apply for conventional loans or engagement with lenders. (Nearly 90% of RPC loans customers have never before received a small business loan.) Foster said the loan readiness program was envisioned four or five years ago during his research phase before starting the firm, when he listened to focus groups and individual excluded entrepreneurs of color as they shared “their narratives and frustrations with the bias and market barriers to accessing conventional loans.” “This aspect of what we are doing comes directly from the experiences that they shared,” Foster said. “… At that time, I homed in on the fact that the reality of loan denial rates for businesses of color being three times higher, 42%, compared to their white peers at 16%, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency, was not just based on explicit bias, but that a business of color, like any business, cannot be fully prepared for loan readiness if they didn’t even have the opportunity and the chance to go through basic steps and Foster information that one would find out about no matter if they received the loan or not. “And so that’s where we are recognizing that there’s an information gap — businesses of color are equipped and bring intelligence to their product, good or services. They are not unaware

about loan details because of pathology, but rather, some of them don’t know the full picture because of not having a simple opportunity to apply for a loan, which then creates information barriers just as (it does) capital barriers. It’s our job to eliminate both, and it’s a pleasure to do this, which is emblematic of just one more thing that we offer that has originated from the direct, authentic engagement in the struggles (and) frustrations of the excluded entrepreneurs of color.” Hendershot said he is grateful he gets to be part of the process. “I am just grateful that Eric had the vision and that I get to be one of the individuals who gets to help with that vision,” he said. Foster said the goal is to run the pilot and assess outcomes at the end, and hopefully convert it into an ongoing offering. The first 13 participants are as follows: • Dr. Lisa Marie Barnes, Believers Home Care LLC — African American female business owner • Krishna B. Bista, Krishna B. Bista Interpreter — Asian American male business owner • Sarah Brandt, Auntie’s House — Native American female organizational participant • Arick Davis, Last Mile Café — African American male business owner • Emmanuel Esparza, E&E Lawn & Snow Services — Hispanic male business owner • Salia Georgete, West Michigan Home Care — Asian American female organizational participant • Tiffany Gray, Taxes by Tiffany — African American female business owner • Edgar Guerrero, Casa Pintura — Hispanic male business partner/ employee • Ange Kramo, Shiloh Assets Management — African American male business owner

“Businesses of color are equipped and bring intelligence to their product, good or services. They are not unaware about loan details because of pathology, but rather, some of them don’t know the full picture because of not having a simple opportunity to apply for a loan, which then creates information barriers just as (it does) capital barriers. It’s our job to eliminate both.” Eric Foster • Pavel C. Mendez-Jimenez, Mendez Carpeting — Hispanic male business owner • Jodie Rykse Salmoran, Casa Pintura — Hispanic female business partner/employee • Juan Salmoran, Casa Pintura — Hispanic male business partner • Christopher Simmons, StudioHenre LLC — African American male business owner RPC engaged the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan to provide Spanish language interpreters for the course. Foster said after the first week of the program, the participants were so excited about what they learned and the potential opportunities the course would unlock that they surrounded Hendershot in the parking lot outside RPC’s office to ask more questions and offer feedback. “When you talk about eliminating the racial wealth gap, it is both challenging and exciting when you have us team members who, before you get into the quantitative of how we are doing in eliminating the racial wealth gap through lending, (we have) people who are just so excited that the social capital as John says, or the information gap, in terms of racial equity, is closing, and how basically the entrepreneurs of color and people like John are so excited by the opportunity that they were never presented with

before. That’s what touched me,” Foster said. Davis, owner of Last Mile Café, a startup coffee business “setting out to revolutionize what people expect,” said he is thankful for the opportunity to join the Pre-Loan Readiness program. “I have been in the RPC ecosystem since I moved back to Grand Rapids and was waiting for an opportunity that made sense to pursue capital through the fund,” he said. “With Last Mile, we intend to open a coffee shop/ retail place early next year and also plan to expand our offerings to customers and retail partners. “RPC loan incubator program was a clear step to help us prepare for the loan process and ensure that we have our ducks in a row. As a new entrepreneur, there is so much to learn, and it is easy to find pieces of information here and there. John and the team have done an exceptional job delivering other informational series, and I expect this program to be even better. So far it is. At the end of the program, Last Mile Cafe will be ready to seek funding to take our business to the next level.” Those who might be interested in participating in a potential second cohort after the program’s pilot phase can contact Hendershot at jhender@rendeprogresscapital.com or Foster at ekfoster@rendeprogresscapital.com.

industry nears $3.2B CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

concerns about the illicit market. “While there have been many successes in Michigan’s regulated cannabis industry, there are major storm clouds on the horizon,” said Stephen Linder, MCMA executive director. “The Anderson Economic Group study shows large quantities of untested, illicit cannabis continue flooding the market. This poses a significant threat to patient and consumer safety. The study makes clear Michigan can and should be a leader in cannabis safety, innovation and entrepreneurship. With this information in hand, we now have a full picture of Michigan’s cannabis market and a clear understanding of the challenges that lie ahead.” In 2020, nearly 70% of all cannabis consumed in Michigan came from non-retail sources, including caregivers, home cultivation ($930 million) and the illicit market ($1.2 billion), according to the report. Anderson Economic Group is an economics consulting firm with offices in East Lansing and Chicago, Illinois. The firm has produced estimates on the size of cannabis markets in all 50 states since 2015.

Report: Beer is booming in Michigan CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

Employment in the wholesale tier is up by 16.3% over the past decade, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The growth in wholesale jobs can be attributed to the development of new beer products, substantial growth in imports and more regional and national distribution by smaller producers. Despite this, like brewing jobs, wholesale jobs fell in 2020 because of COVID-19. Data from November 2020 showed beer retail jobs were down fairly dramatically since 2018, as many states were still restricting on-premises establishments from fully opening. Off-premises retail was up by 17% over 2018, while on-premises jobs were down by nearly 22.4%, the report stated. Methodology Beer Serves America, the Study of the U.S. Beer Industry’s Economic Contribution, has been conducted regularly by the Beer Institute and the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA). John Dunham & Associates (JDA) conducted the research in concert with the Beer Institute and NBWA. This work used standard econometric models first developed by the U.S. Forest Service and now maintained by IMPLAN. Data came from industry sources, government publications and Infogroup.

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

THE LIST

Top Area Health Care Education Programs (RANKED BY 2020 ENROLLMENT)

Dept. head/dean

2020 2019 Health care education programs enrollment

Health center opens Health care education degrees offered

Health care education programs offered

Grand Valley State University 1 Campus Drive Allendale 49401 p (616) 331-5000 gvsu.edu

Philip Batty

9,080 9,173

BA, BS, BSN, BSW, BSE, BSW, DNP, DPT, graduate certificate, MAT, MHA, MHS, MPA, MPAS, MPH, MS, MSE, MSN, MSW, Psy.S., DrOT, AuD, PSYS

Allied health sciences, cardiovascular sonography, clinical dietetics (MS), communication sciences and disorders, diagnostic medical sonography, health information management, medical dosimetry (MS), medical laboratory sciences, occupational therapy (MS), physical therapy (DPT), physician assistant studies (MPAS), public health (MPH), radiation therapy, radiologic and imaging sciences, speechlanguage pathology (MS), therapeutic recreation, audiology, athletic training, nursing and more

Western Michigan University (College of Health & Human Services) 200 Ionia Ave. SW Grand Rapids 49503 p (269) 387-2000 wmich.edu

Ron Cisler

3,296 3,504

877 degrees conferred

Alcohol and drug abuse, athletic training, audiology, biology, dietetics, exercise physiology, health informatics and information management, integrative holistic health and wellness, interdisciplinary health sciences, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, public health, speech pathology and audiology

Calvin University 3201 Burton St. SE Grand Rapids 49546 p (616) 526-6000 calvin.edu

Arlene Hoogewerf

1,002 1,100

BA, BS, BSN, BSOT, BSTR, MA

Nursing, neuroscience, pre-medicine, pre-dental, prepharmacy, pre-optometry, pre-physical therapy, prephysicians assistant, occupational therapy, public health (BA, MPH), speech pathology (BA, MA), exercise science, therapeutic recreation, health communication

Davenport University 6191 Kraft Ave. SE Grand Rapids 49512 p (800) 686-1600 davenport.edu

Karen Daley

717 705

AAS, BS, BSN, MS, MSN, PN, certificates and MS in health informatics and information management, diplomas nursing (generalist and family nurse practitioner), occupational therapy; MBA with health care management concentration; BS in biological laboratory sciences, health information management, health services administration, medical case management, nursing (completion), nursing (pre-licensure); diploma in practical nursing; AAS in health information technology and medical assisting

Grand Rapids Community College 143 Bostwick Ave. NE Grand Rapids 49503 p (616) 234-4000 grcc.edu

Julie Parks Fiona Hert

538 538

Associate in nursing; associate in applied arts and sciences: dental assistant, dental hygiene, occupational therapy assistant, radiologic technology

Nursing (RN, LPN), dental hygiene, dental assistant, radiologic technology, occupational therapy assistant, surgical technican. Non-credit/certificate: Acute care advanced skills, pharmacy technician, certificate in aging, dementia care, personal trainer certification, registered medical assistant, phlebotomy, CPR

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine 15 Michigan St. NE Grand Rapids 49503 p (616) 233-1678 humanmedicine.msu.edu

Aron Sousa

338 332

MD, MD-PhD, MD-MPH, MD-MBA

Medical partners in public health, leadership in medicine for the underserved, leadership in rural medicine, rural community health program

Aquinas College 1700 E. Fulton St. Grand Rapids 49506 p (616) 632-8900 f 732-4489 aquinas.edu

DND

273 256

Bachelor of science in health science, bachelor of science in exercise science, bachelor of science in nursing

Exercise science, health science, nursing

Life EMS Ambulance Education Centre 1275 Cedar St. NE Grand Rapids 49503 p (616) 356-5726 f 356-5734 lifeems.com

Tim Newton

179 81

Certificates

Paramedic, Emergency Medical Technician, Medical First Responder; AHA CPR and ACLS, Pre-hospital Trauma Life Support, Emergency Pediatric Care

Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts & Sciences 2040 Raybrook St. SE Grand Rapids 49546 p (616) 285-9999 f 956-7777 blueheronacademy.com

Heather Leonard

169 138

Licensed massage therapist, phlebotomist, Medical massage therapy, acupressure and massage, personal holistic health practitioner/herbal master training, phlebotomy, holistic health practitioner-herbal and holistic life couch, personal training master/holistic life coach program

University of Detroit Mercy - GR 220 Cherry St. SE Grand Rapids 49503 p (616) 752-6082 udmercy.edu

Hope College 141 E. 12th St. Holland 49423 p (616) 395-7000 hope.edu

Cornerstone University 1001 East Beltline Ave. NE Grand Rapids 49525 p (616) 949-5300 f 222-1528 cornerstone.edu

Metro Health - University of Michigan Health 5900 Byron Center Ave. SE Wyoming 49519 p (616) 252-7200 metrohealth.net

Kalamazoo College 1200 Academy St. Kalamazoo 49006 p (269) 337-7000 f 337-7305 kzoo.edu

Central Michigan University - Grand Rapids 1633 East Beltline Ave. NE Grand Rapids 49525 p (616) 361-4160 f 361-4170 cmich.edu/grandrapids

Suzanne Keep

144 167

Bachelor of Science in nursing

Jonathan Peterson

142 143

BSN

Nursing

Tom Heetderks

125 146

AS-health services, BS-exercise science (pre-occupational therapy), BS-exercise science (pre-physical therapy), BS-exercise science (pre-cardiac rehab), BS-biology (pre-med),BS -biology (pre-pharmacy),BSbiology (pre-physicians assistant), BSbiology (pre-dental),MBA-business administration/health care

AS-health services, BS-exercise science (pre-occupational therapy), BS-exercise science (pre-physical therapy), BSexercise science (pre-cardiac Rehab), BS - Biology (Pre-Med), BS-biology (pre-pharmacy), BS-biology (pre-physicians assistant), BS-biology (pre-dental), MBA-business administration/health care

Dr. Peter Hahn Dr. Jeffery Postlewaite

122 124

Residency and fellowship graduation certificates

Residency programs in: emergency medicine, family medicine, general surgery, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedic surgery and urological surgery

Wraegen Williams

34 28

Bachelor of Arts

Pre-professional (medical, dental, veterinary, physical therapy, etc.)

Robert Davies Peter Ross

30 20

BS, MS, Ph.D.

Doctor of health administration, master of science in nutrition and dietetics, master of science in administration-health services administration, graduate certificate in health systems leadership, master of health administration, bachelor of science in community development-health services, health services administration graduate certificate and more

The Grand Rapids Business Journal list of top area health care education programs, ranked by 2020 enrollment, is the most comprehensive available. The list is based on responses to Business Journal surveys. The Business Journal defines "West Michigan" as Allegan, Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties. To showcase a broader range of health care education programs, the Business Journal also surveyed programs in surrounding counties. The Business Journal surveyed 38 programs; 15 returned surveys and 15 are listed. To be considered for future lists, email dnelson@grbj.com. DND = Did not disclose

The Daniel and Pamella DeVos Center for Interprofessional Health on Grand Valley State University’s Health Campus recently opened.

Leaving post

Calvin University President Michael Le Roy announced he is stepping down. He will not renew his contract after the 2021-22 school year.

Largest gift ever The Western Michigan University Foundation received a gift of $550 million from alumni, the largest monetary gift in the country, to support WMU and the WMU Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine.

New president

Dr. Gerson Moreno-Riaño was recently appointed the 12th Cornerstone University president. He succeeds Dr. Joseph M. Stowell, who retired.

ListStore

@ GRBJ.com

Download this list now at GRBJ.com in Excel or PDF format. The Book of Lists and other lists are also available.

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Experience a new destination for senior living, Rivertown Ridge

Distinctive Style. Unmatched Services.

mmerse yourself in the elegant surroundings of Rivertown Ridge’s retirement lifestyle – designed entirely for your happiness and wellbeing. Nestled among wooded grounds in the heart of beautiful Wyoming Michigan, Rivertown Ridge is a boutique senior living community offering independent living, assisted living and memory care services. With its high appointed detail to design and convenience, Rivertown Ridge offers prime shopping and entertainment venues, luxury amenities and a culinary team that is unmatched. No matter where your interests lie, you’ll quickly see all that Rivertown Ridge has developed to energize your body, stimulate your mind and enrich your overall wellness.

3555 Copper River Ave SW Wyoming, MI 49418 616.258.2715 www.rivertownridge.com

Come and experience a new destination for senior living. Call now, 616.258.2715 for your no obligation tour to learn more.

Managed by

W E’ R E B U I LT FO R T H I S .

At Commerce Bank, we have the tools and talent to help your business prepare for the unexpected, so that whatever comes next, you can confidently say, Challenge Accepted.® 616.233.0430 | commercebank.com/builtforthis

WF810679 COM May Grand Rapids print ad 5.922x6.385.indd 1

4/29/2021 9:53:55 AM

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

THE LIST

Top Area Senior Residential Communities (RANKED BY 2020 TOTAL REVENUE)

Owner

2020 2019 Levels of care/ total revenue percent occupancy

No. of on-site/ off-site medical staff

Entry fee/ monthly payment range

Type of contract

Age exclusive/ accept Medicare Special services

Holland Home (Corporate) 2100 Raybrook St. SE Grand Rapids 49546 p (616) 235-5100 f 235-5111 hollandhome.org

Holland Home

$68.25M Assisted, hospice, $64.5M independent, memory, nursing, skilled DND

203 33

DND DND

Fee for service, modified

N Y

Home care, hospice, continuing care retirement community, rehab, PACE, population health management, Medicaid waiver

Samaritas Senior Living 2000 32nd St. SE Grand Rapids 49508 p (616) 452-5900 f 452-8525 samaritas.org

Samaritas

$44.99M Assisted, hospice, $49.11M independent, memory, nursing, retirement, skilled 70%

178 109

N/A $2,045 - $10,129

Contract care, fee for service, lease

Y Y

Housing and services for seniors at every stage of the aging process: independent living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation and assisted living

Sunset Senior Communities 725 Baldwin St. Georgetown Township 49428 p (616) 457-2770 f 457-7899 sunsetcommunities.org

Nonprofit

$36.12M Assisted, independent, $34.83M memory, nursing, skilled DND

708 403

$66,000-$659,000 $997-$3,188

Lease

Y DND

Holland Home - Raybrook 2100 Raybrook St. SE Grand Rapids 49546 p (616) 235-5704 f 235-5680 hollandhome.org

Holland Home

$26.33M Assisted, hospice, $24.64M independent, memory, nursing, skilled DND

404 76

$15,000-$390,000 $728-$11,730

Fee for service, modified

Y Y

Independent living, rehabilitation, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing facility is not age exclusive

Clark Retirement Community- Clark at Franklin and Keller Lake 1551 Franklin St. SE Grand Rapids 49506 p (616) 452-1568 f 241-5741 clarkretirement.org

Clark Retirement Communities

$19.55M Assisted, hospice, DND independent, memory, nursing, retirement, skilled 85%

300 75

$2,000 -$550,000 $745-$11,102

Modified

Y Y

Choice of cuisine, creative events and activities, wellness programs and pool, dementia services, Montessori programming, spiritual care services

Holland Home - Breton Woods 2500 Breton Woods Drive SE Grand Rapids 49512 p (616) 643-2730 hollandhome.org

Holland Home

$17.32M Assisted, hospice, $14.91M independent, memory, nursing, skilled DND

175 39

$15,000-$832,000 $725-$11,730

Fee for service, modified

Y Y

Independent living, rehabilitation, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing facility is not age exclusive

Beacon Hill at Eastgate 1919 Boston St. SE Grand Rapids 49506 p (616) 245-9179 f 608-8282 beaconhillgr.org

Beacon Hill at Eastgate

225 74

Varied DND

Modified

Y Y

Fine dining, wellness programs, shortterm rehabilitation, memory care

Edison Christian Life Services 1000 Edison Ave. NW Grand Rapids 49504 p (616) 453-2475 f 791-8928 edisonchristian.org

Christian Rest Home Association

$15.27M Assisted, independent, $14.98M intermediate, memory, nursing, retirement, skilled 80%

320 175

$0 $1,775-$10,007

Modified

Y Y

Secured dementia unit, rehabilitation services, hospice contracts

Sentinel Pointe Retirement Community 2900 Thornhills Ave. SE Grand Rapids 49546 p (616) 957-9767 f 957-9769 sentinelpointe.com

Limited Partnership

$4.54M $5.3M

Hospice, independent, intermediate, retirement DND

86 19

$1,000-$2,000 $3,000-$4,800

Lease

N N

Health and wellness activities, three meals daily, exercise, internet, cafe, library, housekeeping, transportation to medical appts, gift shop, beauty and barber shop

Yorkshire & Stonebridge Manors 3511-3515 Leonard St. NW Walker 49534 p (616) 791-0111 f 791-6722 baruchsls.org

Baruch Senior Ministries

$3.97M $3.83M

Assisted, memory DND

94 3

$2,000 $4,500-$5,700

Extensive

N DND

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care provided, income-based rate program available to qualified residents

Georgetown & Cambridge Manors 141-151 Port Sheldon Road SW Grandville 49418 p (616) 457-6010 f 457-2272 baruchsls.org

Baruch Senior Ministries

$3.87M $3.83M

Assisted, memory DND

80 DND

$2,000 $4,500-$5,700

Extensive

Lakeshore Assisted Living 16331 Robbins Road Grand Haven 49417 p (616) 847-4242 f 846-3457 baruchsls.org

Baruch Senior Ministries

$2.03M $2.2M

Assisted, memory DND

39 7

$1,500 $4,500-$4,950

FountainView Assisted Living of Coopersville 640 W. Randall St. Coopersville 49404 p (616) 997-9253 f 997-7234 baruchsls.org

Baruch Senior Ministries

$1.84M $1.68M

Assisted, memory DND

45 1

Bishop Hills Assisted Living 4951 11 Mile Road Rockford 49341 p (616) 866-8227 f 866-2238 baruchsls.org

Baruch Senior Ministries

$1.62M $1.78M

Assisted DND

Ransom Tower Apartments 50 Ransom Ave. NE Grand Rapids 49503 p (616) 235-2881 f 235-2944 grhousing.org

Grand Rapids Housing Commission

$1.56M $1.54M

Independent DND

Fountain View of Lowell 11537 E. Fulton St. Lowell 49331 p (616) 897-8413 f 897-7839 baruchsls.org

Baruch Senior Ministries

$1.55M $1.44M

Assisted, memory DND

Fountain View Retirement Village of Fremont 102 Hillcrest Ave. Fremont 49412 p (231) 924-5050 f 924-6445 baruchsls.org

Baruch Senior Ministries

$17M $15M

Assisted, independent, memory, nursing, skilled 95%

$1.35M Assisted $969,000 DND

Waterford Place and Sunset Manor & Villages (memory care, assisted, independent) , Rose Garden (assisted), Brookcrest (skilled nursing and rehabilitation)

N DND

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care provided, income-based rate program available to qualified residents

Extensive

N N

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care provided, income-based rate program available to qualified residents

$2,000 $3,500-$5,000

Extensive

N N

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care provided, income-based rate program available to qualified residents

30 DND

$2,000 $2,800-$4,450

Extensive

Y DND

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care, incomebased rate program available to qualified residents

5 0

$0 $50-$860

Lease

Y N

Subsidized housing for ages 62 and older, community room, computer lab, on-site food pantry, Meals On Wheels café, social worker

40 DND

$2,000 $3,700-$4,450

Extensive

N DND

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care provided, income-based rate program available to qualified residents

20 DND

$2,000 $4,000-$4,700

Extensive

N DND

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care provided, income-based rate program available to qualified residents

Association induction

Holland Home Executive Vice President Carolyn Flietstra was inducted into the Michigan Home Care & Hospice Association.

Board members Tracy Brame of Thomas M. Cooley Law School and John Vande Guchte of Strategies Wealth Advisors LLC are new Samaritas board members.

New wellness center

Clark at Keller Lake will open a new wellness center this fall. It will have cardio equipment, weights and strength machines.

Certified chaplain

Mary Marks at Beacon Hill at Eastgate recently earned her national board certification for chaplains.

ListStore

@ GRBJ.com

Download this list now at GRBJ.com in Excel or PDF format. The Book of Lists and other lists are also available.

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Faith Hospice continues virtual bereavement services Organization discovered during pandemic it could be more inclusive using technology. Danielle Nelson

dnelson@grbj.com

Faith Hospice is continuing to use a virtual platform to provide bereavement services to families who are grieving the loss of a loved one after the pandemic forced its support groups to meet families where they were, both physically and emotionally. The organization used Zoom for the first time last year to help hospice families and the community cope with their grief. Faith Hospice has a 13-month bereavement process and since families weren’t able to visit its location for the services, the organization increased the number of day and evening support groups that specialize in different types of grief, such as the loss of a spouse, parent or friend, to 25 and took to the virtual platform to support them. Although the support groups weren’t physically able to console families as they grieved, Janet Jaymin, bereavement manager for Faith Hospice, said they were still able to form a personal connection and comfort them as they corresponded. “You can still see someone’s fa-

cial expression,” she said. “People still cry, and you can still feel that, and it becomes personal. You are building trust through Zoom the same way you would if you met in person. Sure, it is a different platform, but it has worked. It really has worked. I can’t always see their body language, and I’ll be honest about that because it does help the clinicians to see someone’s body language, so we have to rely on their facial expressions and their eyes. I have to be really in tune to that individual and what they are saying, but on the flip side of it, I have seen that some people are much more vulnerable and open on Zoom and being in their own home.” Tammy Sue Veldkamp, executive director for Faith Hospice, said Zoom also gave caregivers the opportunity to still keep in contact with families who live out of state. “Janet was able to reach people who were across the country,” she said. “Snowbirds who went to Florida or just families who weren’t present, she was able to then virtually connect with them and support them, where before when it was all in-person we would have had to try to connect them to a local hospice.” “Currently, I have a Zoom support group where I actually have someone from Florida in the group, someone from Arizona in the group and someone from Texas in the group, and like Tammy

Faith Hospice was able to help and support 1,500 hospice families last year and 90% of mourning families who wanted to be a part of a support group were able to do so. Courtesy Faith Hospice

said, in the past we would have never been able to do that and now we can,” Jaymin said. “So, what is so exciting is that we can have a son or daughter who have a parent who lived in Grand Rapids, and they live out of state, and instead of connecting them to a hospice within the state they live in, they can still stay connected with our service.” Faith Hospice was able to help and support 1,500 hospice families last year. Jaymin said 90% of their mourning families who wanted to be a part of a support group became a part of one. “What was interesting and exciting too was that we had folks who were in their 80s who would tell me, ‘Janet, I am not going to

do this technology. I cannot do this. I don’t like it.’ And I would say, ‘We could help you,’ so we would teach them how to get it all set up and it was really beautiful because we have all ages in our support group and we had these people who said they will not be able to use this technology in our groups.” Although the country is returning to some normalcy, Jaymin said Faith will continue to use the virtual platform because of the opportunity it provides to reach families across the country and its popularity with families, in tandem with its in-person bereavement services. Faith Hospice’s bereavement process following the death of a

Top Area Senior Residential Communities (RANKED BY 2020 TOTAL REVENUE) Owner

2020 2019 Levels of care/ total revenue percent occupancy

No. of on-site/ off-site medical staff

Entry fee/ monthly payment range

Type of contract

Age exclusive/ accept Medicare Special services

Fountain View Retirement Village of Grant Baruch Senior 50 S. Maple St. Ministries Grant 49327 p (231) 834-8202 f 834-8962 baruchsls.org

$1.32M $1.14M

Assisted, memory DND

36 10

$2,000 $3,700-$4,500

Extensive

Y N

Faith-based nonprofit licensed assisted living, spiritual care provided, income-based rate program available to qualified residents

Leonard Terrace Apartments 1315 Leonard St. NE Grand Rapids 49505 p (616) 235-2890 f 235-2876 grhousing.org

Grand Rapids Housing Commission

$1.01M $1.02M

Independent DND

4 0

0 $50-$854

Lease

Y N

Subsidized apartments for ages 55 and older, ages 55-61 must be disabled to receive subsidy; on-site food pantry, cafe; shopping adjacent

Mount Mercy Apartments 1425 & 1511 Bridge St. NW Grand Rapids 49504 p (616) 235-2843 f 235-2851 grhousing.org

Grand Rapids Housing Commission

$982,768 Independent $443,137 DND

5 0

0 $50-$725

Lease

Y N

Subsidized housing for ages 55 and older; ages 55-61 must be disabled to receive rental subsidy; food pantry, café, social worker

Hume Home of Muskegon 1244 W. Southern Ave. Muskegon 49441 p (231) 755-1715 f 755-3155 baruchsls.org

The Hume Home of Muskegon

$945,000 Assisted DND DND

26 5

$1,500 $3,088-$3,500

Contract care

Y N

Managed by Baruch Senior Ministries, licensed faith-based nonprofit assisted living, spiritual care and income-based rate program

Sheldon Apartments 1010 Sheldon Ave. SE Grand Rapids 49507 p (616) 235-2860 f 243-1185 grhousing.org

Grand Rapids Housing Commission

$458,379 Independent $376,808 DND

3 0

$0 $50-$850

Lease

Y N

Subsidized apartments for ages 55 and older, ages 55-61 must be disabled to receive rental subsidy; onsite food pantry, social worker, barrier-free units available

Adams Park Apartments 1440 Fuller Ave. SE Grand Rapids 49507 p (616) 235-2865 f 235-2938 grhousing.org

Grand Rapids Housing Commission

DND DND

Independent DND

5 0

0 $50-$713

Lease

Y N

Subsidized apartments for disabled adults and seniors 62 and older, barrier-free units, food pantry, social workers

Freedom Village 145 Columbia Ave. Holland 49423 p (616) 820-7480 f 820-7484 fvhollandseniorliving.com

Life Care Services

DND DND

Assisted, hospice, independent, intermediate, memory, nursing, retirement, skilled DND

400 141

$117,400-$485,400 $2,580-$6,200

Contract care, modified

Y Y

All inclusive, full continuum of care, therapy services, in-home assistance, 20-plus floor plans

The Grand Rapids Business Journal list of top area senior residential communities, ranked by 2020 total revenue is the most comprehensive available. The list is based on responses to Business Journal surveys. The Business Journal defines "West Michigan" as Allegan, Kent, Muskegon and Ottawa counties. The Business Journal surveyed 159 senior communities; 26 returned surveys and 24 are listed. To be considered for future lists, email dnelson@grbj.com. DND = did not disclose

loved one includes continuous follow-up phone calls, counseling services, educational materials on specific topics such as the grief process, understanding grief within the family, coping with grief and self-care. Some of the in-person services Faith Hospice offers grieving families include social support groups such as coffee and conversation and book clubs that are grief-related, annual coping with the holidays tips and groups, bereavement counseling, an annual butterfly release in the spring and fall, and two memorial services are provided for hospice families and staff. “I like folks to remember that Faith Hospice walks alongside individuals, being present with a person’s emotional and often spiritual pain,” Jaymin said. “We do not have a magic wand and we do not ‘fix grief,’ because we can’t. Rather, we offer hope by embracing the bereaved into our hearts and allowing them space to grieve well. “I lost my wise mother 3 years ago. I am so thankful she provided me with a strong Christian foundation. We experienced many losses, and it was hard. During those difficult times, my mother would often say to me, ‘Where’s your faith?’ And in my work today, I remind myself every day, ‘Yes, grief is hard and in grieving well we must remember God is faithful.”

National recognition

Bronson Commons was named the Best Nursing Home by U.S. News & World Report for the eighth consecutive year.

Retirement community to open

Legacies Village, a new senior independent living and retirement community in Caledonia, will be opened soon. It is located at 6001 100th St. SE.

ListStore

@ GRBJ.com

Download this list now at GRBJ.com in Excel or PDF format. The Book of Lists and other lists are also available.

There is no shortage of things to do or ways to grow when you live at Breton Woods of Holland Home. You’ll ﬁnd an active and energetic community where people are always gathering and Vibrant Living activities are always happening. With Independent Living at Breton Woods, residents quickly discover there is so much more to life.

For more information visit hollandhome.org/breton-woods-independent-living.

INSIDE TRACK

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

Leading the way to community care

JULY 12, 2021

Dr. Deborah Brown served four years in the U.S. Army, but a job shadow is what turned her toward dentistry. Courtesy Well Design Studio

With few role models to follow, Dr. Deborah Brown is blazing her own trail at My Community Dental Centers. Ehren Wynder

ewynder@grbj.com

ccording to the American Dental Association, only 3.7% of practicing dentists across the U.S. are African American, but Dr. Deborah Brown stands out even further as CEO of My Community Dental Centers. For such a distinguished position, Brown did not follow a steady career path. Brown grew up in the inner city of Paterson, New Jersey, and by the time she finished high school, college was not on her radar, she said. “I was caught up in followthe-leader … versus trying to be a leader myself,” Brown said. “If I went to college, I wouldn’t be able to hang out with those same friends.”

What’s even more heartbreaking are the children, who can’t bring themselves to the dentist. They have to rely on parents. If they have a toothache, they’re in so much pain they can’t concentrate in school.

Her parents, however, pushed her out the door, and wanting what she perceived was a level of independence she wouldn’t find in college, Brown chose the military. In hindsight, it wasn’t a decision she made knowing the implications. “Ignorance is bliss,” Brown said. “I didn’t know it was going to kick my butt when I got in there,” she said, laughing. “I thought I had one-upped (my parents), and I made a choice that was really going to show me that somebody’s

always going to be in charge.” Brown was enlisted in the U.S. Army for four years and during that time was stationed in South Carolina, Georgia and places as far away as Germany. While she enjoyed the travel, she knew she couldn’t make it a career, mainly because she didn’t like being told what to do. After four years in the Army, though, the young Brown still didn’t know what direction her life ought to take. Back home in New Jersey, she was bouncing from job to job until she said a lightbulb came on. Having avoided it for so long, Brown finally decided to give college a chance. Several people in her family had graduated college and were younger than she was — 27 years old at the time. Once she started attending Rutgers University, Brown realized she could do the work required of her, and in fact excelled at it. “I started to feel, I guess, ‘good’ about my self,” Brown said. “That first time I made the dean’s list — 27, 28 years old — just opened up a new world for me. I didn’t know I had this in me.” Her second year in, Brown declared her major as biology. She said she enjoyed science kits, microscopes and similar gadgets as a child, but she didn’t know what she could do in that field of study. Brown’s mother used a dentist who offered for Brown to shadow him at his office so she could experience his profession. “He was really gung-ho about dentistry, so I took that opportunity,” Brown said. Her mother’s dentist ran a small private practice in Paterson and often served underprivileged patients using Medicaid. After shadowing him for a month, Brown impressed him enough that he wrote her a recommendation for dental school. “It was pretty cool to go and see him interact with these patients. Him not being from Paterson but working there and caring about his patients and wanting to serve the underserved population was pretty cool,” Brown said. After completing dental school, Brown went into public health

DEBORAH BROWN Organization: My Community Dental Centers Position: Chief Executive Officer Age: 55 Birthplace: Paterson, NJ Residence: Grand Rapids Family: Wife - Cynthia Brown Business/Community Involvement: Michigan Board of Dentistry member, American College of Health Care Executives member, Michigan Volunteer Registry-Mortuary Assistance Team Biggest Career Break: When my former mentor and CEO took a chance on me and gave me a dental director position. At that time I did not have any administrative experience. He taught me about the business side of dentistry.

dentistry and worked at a multibranch practice that catered to underserved populations, and she also worked at a federally qualified health center. Being exposed to an underprivileged community, Brown saw a lot of people who put dentistry last on their lists of priorities. Living paycheck-to-paycheck, many of those patients prioritized food, medication, rent and other necessities before their dental care. “What’s even more heartbreaking are the children, who can’t bring themselves to the dentist. They have to rely on parents,” Brown said. “If they have a toothache, they’re in so much pain they can’t concentrate in school. They don’t do well on tests, because when you got a toothache … it’s excruciating, and a child with a toothache who’s trying to focus in school and learn — those were the biggest impacts on me, even as a student in dental school.” Brown said children get their first permanent molar around six years old, but by the time some of the children she took care of were seven, that first molar has so much decay it has to be pulled. “As a society, we’ve got to figure out a way to stop that from happening,” she said. Brown, herself, did not see a dentist until she was about six, and by the time she first sat in the dentist’s chair she had four cavities. It’s an occurrence among children that hasn’t changed much today, she said. “We say first tooth, first birth-

day is when you should see a dentist,” she said. “That’s still not happening for many reasons.” The issue of access to care is a serious problem, Brown said, firstly because dentistry is not seen as essential health care by the insurance industry. It’s seen almost as secondary health care and not something that should be a part of every insurance program. Besides the cosmetic problems of poor dental hygiene, Brown said it also comes with pain and infection that can, and often does, spread to other parts of the body. When My Community Dental Centers in Michigan put out an online search for an open position as CEO, Brown caught wind of the job but kept ignoring it. She had never visited the Midwest and didn’t have a high opinion of it. “When I finally clicked on it, when I read the description of what the job entailed, I was like, ‘That’s me. That’s everything I like to do. That’s what I know. That’s what I basically live and breathe every day,’” Brown said. Brown applied, but she didn’t expect a call back. She didn’t see a lot of people with her skin color at the executive level, she said. Even as a dentist, she was in a hard minority, and the lack of diversity was even more evident at the leadership level. “Not seeing people like myself in leadership made me not think I could get it,” Brown said. “Plus, I looked at the (MCDC) website, and I didn’t see anyone like me.”

Much to her surprise, MCDC did call her back requesting an interview. Even then, Brown didn’t believe she would get the job, but she later received a call from the chair of the board of directors telling her she got in. “I was blown away. Then reality set in, and I was like, ‘I’m moving to Michigan,’” Brown said. “I just realized I’ve become a Michigander probably early 2021. My wife and I were like, ‘Yeah, I think we’re Michiganders. We’re going out in the cold and we don’t have jackets on. “I didn’t have a lot of hopes for getting the position, but I’m glad that I got it and I’m glad that I’m here, and now I can show someone else what they can do,” Brown said. Brown added MCDC is partnering with Delta Dental Foundation for a project in Detroit where community health workers help patients understand the importance of oral health and connect them to resources to access care for themselves and their children. “We want the whole family to come to us as their ‘dental home’ so they all can receive care,” Brown said. “I think this project is important. Other parts of health care are starting to use community health workers. Michigan is one of the states that has a community health worker professional organization … so I think it’s going to be a big thing for the future of connecting patients to resources in the community.”

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Grand Rapidian starts grocery subscription business Anjoy delivers fresh and local products from farms and food businesses to members’ doorsteps.

“The idea is to get those core items that you want every week, but to get them from a better quality, more local and more sustainable source.”

Rachel Watson

Jeff Boore

rwatson@grbj.com

The founder of a new grocery subscription service is aiming to help make a better food system through supporting local, keeping prices fair and paying employees a living wage. Jeff Boore — a native of Grand Rapids with a corporate and entrepreneurial background — is founder of Anjoy, a subscription-based grocery service that soft launched the end of June/beginning of July in Grand Rapids. Currently, Anjoy employs one driver who delivers groceries to the ZIP codes 49503, 49504, 49505, 49506, 49507 and 49525. Boore plans to expand that territory as the business grows and he can add more delivery drivers. The name Anjoy comes from the Vietnamese phrase “ăn choi,” which means “fun food,” or the type of food you have when you’re with family and friends and having a party or celebrating. “My wife is Vietnamese, and the phrase always felt like it perfectly represented how I wanted Anjoy to feel. Food should be fun, and it should be a way that connects us,” Boore said.

Members can find and add items from the website or the Anjoy mobile app and pay for whatever is in that order. Courtesy Anjoy

Although Boore said on the surface, Anjoy may seem like Shipt, there are several key differences. Firstly, Anjoy hires in-house employees rather than contractors and pays them a starting wage of $15 per hour. Secondly, the produce comes fresh and in-season from local farmers and food businesses rather than grocery stores, with a goal of

zero waste through a meal planning service included on the app and the ability to tweak orders at the last minute. Thirdly, Anjoy aims to return as much of the profits back to the local suppliers as possible by not taking huge margins from each sale, and fourthly, the service will strive to be affordable to customers by not marking up the grocery prices over market rates but instead generating its profits through the subscription fees. “Our big, gigantic goal is to help make the food system better for everyone — better for farmers, better for food business owners, better for customers and better for the planet,” Boore said. How it works The monthly subscription fee includes delivery and membership to Anjoy, which will come with some “fun perks” that are still in the works, Boore said. Members can then find and add items from the website or the Anjoy mobile app and pay for whatever is in that order. “We set it up like this for a couple of reasons: It allows us to keep

our product prices the exact same as they would be if you were to buy our items from the partners. This is very different from most other delivery services that will mark up their grocery prices so that they make more money. The second reason is that we really want to return as much of the grocery sales back to our partners (as possible). While other delivery services take massive margins from their partners, we’re working to drive as much of our business out of the membership fee, so that we can return as much as possible of the grocery sales to the partners,” he said. Members can either sign up to receive a starter box or answer a few questions to get a box designed to fit their needs. Subscribers can then add, edit or delete what’s in the box. “The idea is to get those core items that you want every week, but to get them from a better quality, more local and more sustainable source,” Boore said. “Something that is different from some competitors is that each item ‘subscription’ can be tweaked every week. You can skip something if you’re out of town or get some extra if you need it. “As far as what members can get, it depends on the item. For things like coffee and bread, members can subscribe to a specific roast or loaf or let our partner roasters and bakers choose their favorite that week. When it comes to produce, it’s a bit more general. For instance, members can subscribe to a salad greens subscription that is set up for a desired number of sal-

ads each week. However, the exact type of salad greens will vary. This is the same for our seasonal produce subscriptions. We know that there are important food types and categories, but (we) want to push our members to explore different types of produce or salad greens so that we can give them what is fresh that week and in peak season. … You’re more likely to enjoy the best version of something that is maybe not your favorite over your favorite thing that isn’t in peak season. We help you navigate that without trying give you something completely out of left field.” Although Anjoy is more of a grocery service than a meal planning service, Boore said he is working on building out the meal-planning functionality. For now, users can save their favorite recipes, add them to weekly meal plans and see which ingredients they already have at home and which ones they still need to buy. Suppliers Some of Anjoy’s initial suppliers include the following: Green Wagon Farm — A certified organic family farm in Ada “with a passion for growing some of the best produce around.” Joven — A special line of coffee developed by Francesca “Frankie” Volkema, the 14-year-old daughter of The Sparrows Coffee and Schuil Coffee owner Tim Volkema, Joven supports coffee farms and collectives that are owned by farmers age CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Just like you, we’re here for your employees.

BCB144280_MSG_Print_GrandRapids_BusJournal_7-12_Ins_F1.indd 1

S:20

0.12"

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Task force preps to aid more refugees coming here Freedom Flight, founded in 1975, looks forward to resettlement cap being raised this year and next. Rachel Watson

rwatson@grbj.com

A community task force that has spent over 40 years resettling refugees is gearing up to help more people this year after President Joe Biden raised the ceiling of how many refugees can enter the U.S. in 2021. Chris Cavanaugh, director of new American resettlement in West Michigan for the Grand Rapids-based nonprofit Samaritas, spoke to the Business Journal last month about Freedom Flight, a task force and program founded in 1975 to help refugees transition to life in West Michigan. According to a 1996 interview stored in Hope College’s digital commons, the Freedom Flight program was founded by the Rev. Howard Schipper, a Holland native who was then pastor at Bethany Reformed Church in Grand Rapids. He and his wife, Marybelle, were on a flight from Los Angeles to Chicago on the day of the fall of Saigon that ended the Vietnam War — April 30, 1975 — with a large group of Vietnamese orphans who had survived a plane crash just weeks earlier and were on their way to a Catholic mission in Boston.

Freedom Flight helps refugees with everything from language skills and housing to finding a job. Courtesy of Samaritas

Suddenly aware of the consequences caused by the U.S. war against Vietnam, the Schippers felt a calling to help refugees and quickly got to work after arriving back home. Using their connections to a network of area churches and to a friend who worked for the State Department and had ties to the Gerald R. Ford White House, the Schippers were able to create Freedom Flight, a commit-

tee that started with one planeload of 100 refugee families that year and grew into a thriving task force that connected refugees from all over the world with medical assistance, English language classes, relationship building, job placement, social services and obtaining citizenship. Between 1975 and today, the area has settled refugees from Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Bos-

nia, Russia, Cuba, Sudan, Iraq, Somalia, Myanmar and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, among others. The task force eventually morphed into the Freedom Flight Refugee Center under the umbrella of a nonprofit, the Freedom Flight Corporation Board, which closed in the 1990s, leaving the work of refugee resettlement to other nonprofits such as Betha-

ny Christian Services, Catholic Charities West Michigan and Samaritas. Around 2000, several agencies restarted the Freedom Flight Task Force, which meets quarterly. Freedom Flight today is led by organizations including Samaritas, Bethany Christian Services, Kent County Health Department, Kent Intermediate School District, The Refugee Education Center and Senior Neighbors. It remains supported by churches, volunteers and service providers, and meetings often are attended by legislators, city commissioners, law enforcement and any other individuals who are interested. “We like to keep it broad for anyone who wants to give input on resettlement or learn about it,” Cavanaugh said. He said West Michigan remains a hotbed for refugee resettlement for a variety of reasons, including the large number of churches in the area with a desire to welcome people in need, the lower cost of living as compared to larger cities like New York or Chicago, and the strong public-private partnerships that have been in place here for decades. “This Freedom Flight story, where the churches are involved, that hasn’t stopped, just like the faith community and individual people that have a welcoming spirit and like to walk alongside the refugees as they’re learning to live life in the United States,” he said. “… CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, we understand you want the best for your employees, which is why we offer a wide range of plans designed to fit any budget. Plans that give them access to the largest network of physicians and hospitals in Michigan wherever and whenever. We offer complete benefits with pharmacy, dental, vision and emotional well-being health for you and your employees. That’s the Blue Cross difference, which all adds up to smarter, better health care. See what a Blue Cross plan can do for your business.

Learn more at bcbsm.com/employers S:5.635"

Conﬁdence comes with every card.®

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

6/22/21 9:47 AM

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Michigan Music Alliance seeks to connect industry CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

For This

Exact Moment

Enhanced Psychiatric Urgent Care for Adults. When life becomes overwhelming, you can get same-day help. Experts at our Psychiatric Urgent Care Center are available daily for walk-in and virtual appointments. Call 616.455.9200 today!

pinerest.org/urgent • 616.455.9200

Neil L. Kimball

Neil P. Jansen Christopher D. Matthysse

Your estate and trust matters We know there is nothing as significant and personal as the management of your family’s wealth and estate. Neil Kimball, Chris Matthysse, Neil Jansen and our entire team make sure your family or business leaves a legacy that endures for generations. • Wills • Trusts • Foundations • Decedents’ Estates • Guardianships

mikameyers.com (616) 632-8000

• Business Succession Planning • Pre-Marital and Post-Marital Agreements • Conservatorships • General Probate Litigation • Medicaid Planning

neers and producers hear about this and let us know about them because there are so many home studios in Michigan where engineers work out of a home studio and are doing amazing work,” Lively said. “They are a little harder to find sometimes, so we’d like them to make themselves known to us so that we can add them to the database. There is a lot of talent that we don’t want to miss.” Singers and songwriters Nicholas James Thomasma and Sarena Rae both opted-in to the Michigan Artist Database with hopes of it helping them to connect with others. Thomasma, a folk musician, sometimes performs by himself and other times with his band Nicholas James and the Bandwagon. “I am excited for the database because a lot of times I am constantly trying to find new musicians to play with,” he said. “It seems like I am in an endless search for a bass player and a drummer in my band, and I have gone through a lot of people over the years. Now I am at the point where when I need a drummer, I don’t just have 10 people in mind to ask, ‘Wait, who plays drums?’ So, it is nice to have a resource where you can look up musicians and connect with them.” Rae, an R&B singer, said she released her EP “Heaven” last year, but she has not been able to perform it live. With the database, she said she will be able to have a release party and perform her music at different venues and collaborate with other artists. “It is amazing to find artists to collaborate with. I think it is

an amazing tool and an amazing resource that the Michigan Music Alliance has created for us, but not only for musicians but venues and studios,” she said. “I am really excited because I think it is going to be an accessible way to work and collaborate with other people in Michigan.” The MMA has been serving as a connector for years. On March 8, International Women’s Day, Rae was able to collaborate with a group of more than 25 female artists from across the state who gathered either in their homes or one of MMA’s five partnered studios to create a music video that was paired with a cover performance of R.E.S.P.E.C.T, paying tribute to Michigan’s Aretha Franklin. The MMA also was instrumental in helping artists who struggled financially through the pandemic with the launch of the Michigan Artist Relief Fund. The organization was able to raise $50,000 to help Michigan artist pay bills. Thomasma spent the latter part of 2020 performing drive-thru concerts throughout the state. “I am grateful for the Michigan Music Alliance,” he said. “The fact that they were able to spearhead such a large relief fundraising (effort) was impressive in itself, and their continued dedication toward improving the lives and the careers of musicians in Michigan is admirable. I am so grateful to have such an organization in Michigan.” “I am grateful to the Michigan Music Alliance in so many ways,” Rae added. “I love that they advocate for musicians and for the arts.” The databases are available at https://www.michiganmusicalliance.org/databases.

Grand Rapidian starts grocery subscription CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

35 and younger to invest in the future of coffee. Beer City Dog Biscuits — A mission-driven nonprofit that was created to help those with developmental disabilities find meaningful work, this company makes dog treats from spent Founders beer grains. Field & Fire Bakery — A local bakery that makes bread and baked goods and is passionate about supporting local farms and promoting better agriculture practices. The bread is baked the morning of Anjoy’s deliveries, so “it might still be warm” when you get it, Boore said. Delivery Anjoy will soon be looking to hire more drivers so it can expand its territory. If a prospective customer is outside of the area mentioned above but shares their ZIP code and contact information on the site, Boore said Anjoy will reach out to them to let them know when service is available in their area.

Additional details Anjoy allows members to tweak their orders up until two days before delivery. Boore said this reduces waste because suppliers don’t have to guess how much people might buy each week and make extra “just in case”; it ensures Anjoy doesn’t run out of any items in a customer’s order, as its partners don’t typically begin to pick or make the items until the order is confirmed; and it allows Anjoy to provide the freshest groceries possible. He said this is appealing, given the fact most grocery store apples can be up to a year old before they reach the customer, he said, citing a 2019 article by Delish. Boore said Anjoy was created to give the approximately 60% of individuals who say they want to shop locally for produce, but don’t have time to visit farmers markets, the opportunity to buy local in a more convenient way. “We make it easier to get products from local partners and help those partners compete with the big-box stores,” he said. More information about the service is at anjoy.co.

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Words From Our Business Partner at Summit Laboratory “About five years ago I switched from one of the big banks in town and I have never regretted the decision. I would recommend FNBM and my banker, David Kistler because they have managed everything from mortgages and investments to routine deposits and withdraws. Regardless of who I am working with at the bank I receive excellent customer service. I recommend using a bank you can easily communicate with and for me, that is FNBM.” - Thomas Krueger President, Summit Laboratory Grand Rapids David Kistler

fnbmichigan.com 141 Ionia Ave. N.W., Grand Rapids 49503 | 616.242.6500

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

COMMENT & OPINION

GUEST COLUMN Rick Baker

Reopening Michigan: Where do we go from here?

he lifting of the remaining capacity and mask restrictions is cause for celebration for in the business community, which finally feels the 16-month pandemic is behind it. With this celebration, excitement and a red-hot economy also comes trepidation and more uncertainty, however. Even though they are now fully open, numerous businesses still are struggling to stay afloat and there are many more working hard to keep their doors open in the face of labor and supply shortages.

The pandemic exacerbated the talent shortage, shined a new light on racial inequities and shuttered businesses that make our community vibrant. I am so proud of the way the business community has responded to all the challenges of the pandemic, but there are still lingering issues that need to be addressed quickly, efficiently and with intentionality. The pandemic exacerbated the talent shortage, shined a new light on racial inequities and shuttered businesses that make our community vibrant. With COVID-19 in check, talent has consistently been the No. 1 issue for our member businesses. The past year’s “she-session” has removed more than 136,000 women from the Michigan workforce who put their careers on hold

to address needs in their homes. It forced business closures, left many employees without their livelihoods, and the dramatic impact COVID-19 had on the education systems has affected nearly every industry’s talent pipeline. The Grand Rapids Chamber is an advocate in addressing these issues through policy-oriented solutions such as expanding the Going PRO Talent Fund and increasing access to child care through the nation-leading Tri-Share Childcare Pilot Program. We also are encouraged by the alignment we’ve seen with the legislature and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on how to invest $1.4 billion in dedicated federal child care funding. The areas of proposed investment match our longtime child care goals like increasing the eligibility threshold, increasing the reimbursement rate and providing stability. We will continue to urge them to work together on a solution that is strategic and sustainable. Housing supply and affordability is another key piece in addressing the talent issue and is foundational to the success of our communities and economy. It impacts access to jobs, employee retention and attraction, health outcomes, student success, quality-of-life and much more. That is why we have led the Housing Michigan Coalition to create and expand tools for local governments to support the development or rehabilitation of housing supply that is attainable for more citizens. The coalition’s bipartisan legislation recently passed the Michigan Senate, and we will continue to urge the Legislature to

move quickly to expand access to and support the creation of attainable housing. Going forward together we can collaborate as successfully as we did during the pandemic to address the issues around child care, inequities, public health and talent in a way that will positively impact the generations to come. This is the time to act, invest

and use tools that will lead West Michigan to be a more prosperous and thriving region for all. If you’d like to learn more about our work and get involved with the Grand Rapids Chamber, visit www. grandrapids.org or contact info@ grandrapids.org. Rick Baker is president and CEO of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce.

MI VIEW WEST Garth Kriewall

GRBJ.COM EDITOR

Tim Gortsema: tgortsema@grbj.com DIGITAL EDITOR

Tom Mitsos: tmitsos@grbj.com ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR

Ehren Wynder: ewynder@grbj.com STAFF REPORTERS

Danielle Nelson: dnelson@grbj.com Rachel Watson: rwatson@grbj.com Ehren Wynder: ewynder@grbj.com STATE LEGISLATIVE REPORTER

Capital News Service: freedma5@msu.edu

Michigan journalist, kriewall@hotmail.com

ART DIRECTOR

Kristen Van Oostenbrugge: kristenv@geminipub.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Buck, Johnny Quirin ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Jenn Maksimowski: jmaksimowski@geminipub.com ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANTS

Todd Anderson: tanderson@grbj.com Jessica Laidlaw: jlaidlaw@grbj.com Renee Looman: rlooman@grbj.com Maddy Messerly: mmesserly@geminipub.com DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

Michelle VanArman: mvanarman@hour-media.com

MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER

Andrea Straw: astraw@geminipub.com MARKETING & EVENTS INTERN

Aubrey Wilson

CIRCULATION MANAGER Riley Meyers: rmeyers@hour-media.com

Yes. Our West Michigan office is now open. How may I direct your call?

TO ORDER ARTICLE REPRINTS

reception@geminipub.com (616) 459-4545

CIRCULATION CUSTOMER SERVICE

(866) 660-6247

GUEST COLUMN David Van Andel

Supporting today’s educators to empower tomorrow’s scientists

he COVID-19 vaccines are a triumph of modern science. It took less than a year from the start of the pandemic in the United States for the first shots to go into arms — the fastest creation of a vaccine in the history of modern medicine. We owe a great deal to the doctors, scientists, engineers, public health experts and frontline workers who helped bring hope to millions. Already, we are seeing the fruits of their labor in the United States: diminishing infection rates, fewer deaths and a loosening of restrictions. As global vaccination efforts continue to build, our successes at home encourage the international community — many of whom are still feeling some of the worst impacts of the pandemic. As we chart new paths forward, it is important to take note of subtle, yet important, details of how we got to the point where safe, effective vaccines were available in record time. Decades ago, the experts behind these vaccines were themselves young, curious

students. Many had teachers who encouraged and inspired them and sent them down paths that led them through years of schooling and training, and into the research laboratories. It was these bright young minds and the research they inspired that led us to where we are today so quickly. As a former elementary school teacher, my mother, Betty Van Andel, understood the power of a good education. When plans for Van Andel Institute were being formalized, we ensured the simultaneous creation of Van Andel Institute for Education to champion K-12 science education. A quarter century later, her legacy endures. Van Andel Institute for Education has empowered thousands of teachers to provide a strong science education to thousands of students — many of whom have gone on to pursue careers in biomedical research and other science fields. Our nimble staff of expert educators provides robust, relevant support to teachers and students because we are constantly attuned to evolving needs.

A recent example of this is VacciNation, a free, online project-based learning unit launched by the Institute in early 2021. VacciNation teaches students the history of vaccines and how they protect us from illnesses like SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Hundreds of teachers in Michigan and beyond downloaded the project to use in their classrooms. Shortly after the project’s release, vaccine manufacturers announced they would begin evaluating the vaccines for use in 12-to-15-yearolds — making VacciNation an even more timely lesson, and one that helped educators and parents navigate a complex topic with their inquisitive young students. The Institute also has helped teachers with professional develLETTERS POLICY: The Business Journal welcomes letters to the editor and guest commentary. Letters and columns must include the writer’s name, address and telephone number. Guest columns do not necessarily reflect the philosophy of the Business Journal.

opment webinars and instructional resources throughout the pandemic by providing high-quality, inquiry-based instruction whether they found themselves in virtual, hybrid, or in-person environments. To keep this momentum going over the summer and into the new school year, Van Andel Institute for Education is engaging students through science summer camps and helping school administrators navigate the challenges left from the pandemic, most notably overcoming issues relating to learning loss, equity and social-emotional learning. Unfortunately, the pandemic has significantly disrupted K-12 education and put considerable pressure on teachers, students and parents alike. Headlines warn of teacher burnout, with many retiring early or leaving the profession altogether. These are hard truths to face, but educators know there also is opportunity in adversity. The pandemic has been the largest disruption to education in centuries; schools had to reinvent themselves to accommodate virtual learning

GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES editorial@grbj.com GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES advertisingsales@grbj.com

Grand Rapids Business Journal (ISSN 10454055) is published biweekly, with an extra issue in December, by Gemini Media, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Telephone (616) 459-4545; Fax 459-4800. General e-mail: bjinfo@grbj.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, Michigan. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Business Journal, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Copyright ©2021 by Gemini Media. All rights reserved. Grand Rapids Business Journal is mailed biweekly to executives, managers and professionals throughout Metro Grand Rapids and West Michigan. The subscription rates in continental U.S. are: $59 per year; $79 - 2 years; $99 - 3 years. Rates for Canada and U.S. possessions are $84 per year. Subscription rates include the annual Book of Lists and additional special publications. Please inquire for overseas rates. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $2, by mail $3; back issues $4 when available, by mail $5. Advertising rates and specifications at www.grbj.com or by request. Grand Rapids Business Journal does not accept unsolicited contributions.

Grand Rapids Business Journal is a registered trademark of GEMINI MEDIA, LLC

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

Letters and columns may be edited for reasons of space or clarity. Please submit to: The Editor, Grand Rapids Business Journal, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or email bjletters@grbj.com.

PUBLISHED BY GEMINI MEDIA, LLC CEO Stefan Wanczyk PRESIDENT John Balardo

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL GUEST COLUMN Lexi Woods

Michigan court says government can’t use drones without a warrant W

hile we all may feel as if “Big Brother” is watching us from time to time, a recent Michigan court ruling ensures local governments generally can’t use drones to do so. A little background first. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects people from unreasonable government searches and seizures. At the core of the Fourth Amendment is a person’s right to privacy, including the idea people shouldn’t be subjected to arbitrary government invasions. So, when a governmental entity wants to search a person or their property, the government typically needs a warrant. The rise of technology has complicated whether the government is “searching” someone’s property or merely just using the technological resources available today. Despite some of the resources available today, local, state and the federal government still must respect Fourth Amendment privacy rights.

In Long Lake Township v. Todd Maxon and Heather Maxon, the Michigan Court of Appeals said Long Lake Township must have a warrant to inspect property. In the case, the township used drones to determine if property owners were violating zoning rules related to illegal junk yards. The property owners had previously gotten in trouble for violating zoning rules but ended up reaching an agreement with the local government. Shortly after reaching an agreement, however, Long Lake Township felt the property owners were violating the agreement and the zoning rules by greatly increasing the amount of junk on their property. The local government sued the property owners, again arguing they were in violation of the zoning rules. To prove their argument, Long Lake Township provided the court with aerial photos taken over a span of eight years. According to the township, these photos proved a huge increase in junk on the

property, which violated zoning rules. The aerial photographs of the property were taken by drones. The property owners objected to the drone photographs. They argued the aerial surveillance and drone photos were an illegal search that violated the Fourth Amendment. The court agreed. To help reach its decision, the court reviewed several U.S. Supreme Court cases involving privacy and the Fourth Amendment. The Michigan court pointed out one case involving thermal imaging. In that case, the Supreme Court noted that just because technology is advancing does not mean that people do not have reasonable privacy expectations in their own homes. Other Supreme Court cases, however, have held that viewing property from airplanes and helicopters did not violate the Fourth Amendment. In the end, the Michigan Court of Appeals determined the drone issue was similar to the thermal imaging case. It ruled Long Lake

Township had indeed violated the Fourth Amendment when using a drone to inspect and photograph the property without a warrant or the property owners’ permission. This case ultimately limits the ability of local governmental units to search property by upholding an individual’s privacy rights under the Fourth Amendment. Note: This case addressed government use of drones to “search” private property but also may have implications for private drone use over another’s property and whether such use invades the landowner’s “reasonable expectation of privacy.” Private operation of a drone that invades another’s “reasonable expectation of privacy” is prohibited by Michigan statute. Lexi Woods is an attorney with the law firm Warner Norcross + Judd LLP who concentrates her practice in real estate transactions and data privacy. She can be reached at awoods@wnj.com.

JULY 12, 2021

Supporting today’s educators CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

almost overnight. As they prepare to return to in-person learning next fall, many schools are taking the opportunity to reimagine what teaching and learning will look like. VAI has an important role to play in helping schools emerge from the pandemic as beacons of curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. We are at a pivotal point in the pandemic. As more Americans get vaccinated, we can see the awesome power of science and education in real time. But there will be more diseases like COVID-19 that threaten us. Today’s students are the scientists of tomorrow who will meet the health challenges of the future head-on. They will need role models and others to encourage them on the way. Teachers are instrumental in this journey, and we must give them our unyielding support. Human health now, and in the future, depends on it. David Van Andel is chairman and CEO of Van Andel Institute.

GUEST COLUMN Dave Kahle

How well are your salespeople serving your customers? T

hat’s right. Serving, not selling. I know you are concerned with sales. It’s easy to determine how well your people are selling to your customers. That’s what sales reports are for. But your customers are more concerned with how well they are being served by your salespeople. You don’t want to just sell something to a customer, you want to build a relationship that lasts over time and results in years of sales. And when it comes to developing long-lasting profitable relationships, it is not how well your salespeople present features and benefits and overcome objections that counts, it is how well they serve the customers’ needs. Which brings us to a couple of questions. First, what does it mean for a salesperson to serve the customer? And second, how do you know that it is happening effectively? Serving the customer Clearly, you know what it means for your company to serve your customer. On-time deliveries, competitive prices, reliable service, competent CSRs, etc. But what do your customers want from your outside salespeople? Ask each salesperson what it means to serve the customer, and you can expect to hear a variety of answers. That’s the problem. Few companies have any consistent description of what it really means to serve the customer. Generally, salespeople are left to figure it out on their own, create their own definitions, and develop their own standards. I have yet to meet a salesperson who did not believe that he/she provided excellent service to their customers. Every salesperson per-

ceives they are doing a good job. So, on one hand, we have vague and general definitions of what it means to provide good service to the customer. And on the other, we have the often-inaccurate perceptions of the salespeople. The result? Inconsistent service, and lots of unmet expectations on the part of the customers. I recently worked with one of my clients to gain a deeper understanding of what service means by, of all things, asking the customers! We gathered six of this client’s brightest and most insightful customers together for a half-day focus group. I facilitated the videotaped discussion, and the client viewed the tape later. What did we discover? How customers define good service Here’s how those customers defined “good service” from the outside sales force. Don’t waste their time. If there was one theme that popped up over and over throughout the day it was this: We have less time to do our job than ever before, so you better not waste any part of it. In other words, don’t come into my business unprepared. Have something of value to share or don’t come. They need to see some value in the time they share with your salespeople every time they see them, or they won’t see them. Don’t waste their time with idle chit-chat, don’t take longer to do something than you need to, don’t be unprepared and don’t waste their employees’ time. If you don’t have something important to do or something valuable to bring, don’t visit. And when you do visit, make sure you have all the answers. Know what the product

does or doesn’t do, know what the pricing and terms are and be prepared to answer all their questions. Be empowered to handle things now. One customer talked about the salesperson as “victim.” He was referring to the salesperson who spends time explaining how the truck broke down, or the manufacturer backordered the product, or it was recalled, or whatever. All of these were seen as the salesperson saying, “It wasn’t our fault. We’re the victims of someone else’s mistakes.” These customers weren’t concerned with whose fault something was, nor were they concerned with the reasons why something wasn’t as it was supposed to be. They only wanted solutions. One customer remarked that the Ritz Carlton Hotel authorizes its maids to spend up to $2,000 to make a customer happy, while the salespeople who call on him cannot resolve a problem over a $50 can of paint without several phone calls and days of approvals. Know my business. Don’t waste our time or insult our intelligence by presenting products or services that we can’t use. These customers expected the salespeople to know what their processes were, know who their customers were, know what their goals and strategies were, know the limitations of their facilities, budgets and timetables, and take all of that into consideration before they present some product or program. Bring us solutions, not problems. These customers did not want to discover after the fact that a purchase would be back-ordered or short-shipped. Find the problems before we experience them, and then bring us solutions. Tell us

what our options are, and we’ll decide what to do. In other words, the salesperson who says, “I’m sorry about last week’s back order,” is not serving the customer. The salesperson who is serving the customer is the one who says, “Next week, we’re going to short ship this order. If you need the balance right away, we can do any of three things to help. Here are your options …” While these weren’t the only definitions of “good service” this group of customers volunteered, they represent a good starting point. Take initiative What to do? Here are some initiatives you can consider. Make sure your salespeople are thoroughly prepared to present any new product or program. Don’t think that just because someone presented a new product in Friday afternoon’s sales meeting that the salespeople are fully equipped to thoroughly present it. Role-play a customer asking questions. Don’t stop until everybody gets it right. Think through every possible question that a customer may ask, and make sure that every salesperson has an intelligent and thoughtful answer. Insist that each salesperson have a plan for every sales call, and something of value to bring to the customer. Train them in this. Empower the salespeople to fix problems on the spot. Create some guidelines for the level of authority the salesperson has. For example, you may decide that a salesperson can issue a credit of up to $500 on the spot to fix any problem he/she needs to fix. Instill information systems that allow the salespeople to have on-

line 24/7 access to order status, inventory, pricing, etc. Train and equip the sales force to “know their customer’s business.” Create detailed account profile forms (either electronic or paper) and require the sales force to use them. From time to time, ask a customer to come in and talk about his/her business to the sales force. Hold focus groups like the one I mentioned and show the videotapes to the salespeople. At sales meetings, instead of only discussing your products and processes, educate the salespeople on a typical customer’s business. Teach and equip the salespeople to become proactive problem solvers. Make sure they have the right information tools to proactively discover problems before they hit the customer. Train them in using them. When you and your sales manager ride with them, watch to make sure they are using them effectively. Finally, ask your customers. From time to time, personally visit some of your customers, and ask them how your sales force is doing relative to other salespeople, and relative to that customer’s expectations. Take a form to make sure that you are thorough. Ask your customers to rate each of the issue mentioned above. Use that input to refine your system. And then, find out how else your customer defines good service. Do these things and you’ll begin to field a sales force that the customers view as valuable. You’ll take a huge step forward in developing the kind of relationships you’ll need to prosper in the 21st century.

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Task force preps to aid more refugees coming here CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

It makes it a more welcoming and friendly place for refugees that are coming to a brand-new, start-yourlife-over situation.” Over the years, Cavanaugh said the agencies have developed programs that help refugees get education, jobs, housing, social services and a path to citizenship, while the churches and volunteers’ roles have shifted to more of a relational focus. “Maybe a volunteer ends up teaching a family member how

to drive a car and helps them practice that, or continues their English engagement by doing one-on-one conversation, or … a volunteer and their kids might spend time getting to know (a refugee family’s) kids and playing or doing an outing on the weekends introducing them to things that are local to West Michigan that are enjoyable to do. Those things really enhance the integration process for the families that arrive here,” he said. Typically, most refugees coming to West Michigan today are

joining family members who already live here, Cavanaugh said. After five years in the U.S., they become eligible to apply for citizenship. He said the U.S. government expects refugees to become economically self-sufficient as soon as possible, which means they are eligible and required to find work right away. The Freedom Flight Task Force helps with job readiness, orientation to the U.S. workforce and connections to West Michigan Works! for vocational training. After getting jobs, most refugees obtain permanent

housing in the area within a few years, Cavanaugh said, although this is getting harder due to the affordable housing shortage. There is no formal record of how many refugees Freedom Flight has resettled over the years, but Cavanaugh said it likely numbers in the tens of thousands. In the past five years alone, agencies such as Samaritas and Bethany have resettled around 2,000 to 3,000 refugees combined, he said. The number of refugees allowed into the U.S. each year is determined by resettlement ceil-

Luxury Living at Affordable Prices! You can now call this beautiful historic building home! Studio, one and two bedroom apartments available, with high ceilings, walls of windows and stunning architectural details, like travertine marble floors and natural wood staircases. Onsite fitness gym and café, community kitchen and meeting space, library and computer room. Head of household must be age 55 or older with a household income up to 55k. Other members of household must be age 50 or older. Call or email Diann for a tour today—units going fast! 616 900 9225 | dgill@samaritas.org.

ings set by U.S. presidential administrations. Data from the Migration Policy Institute captured between 1980 and 2021 shows the thresholds have been trending generally downward, with a peak ceiling of 231,700 in 1980 and an all-time low cap of 18,000 set by the Trump administration last year, with only 2,334 refugees actually admitted. When President Joe Biden took office in 2020, he raised the 2021 ceiling to 62,500, with a goal of increasing the ceiling to 125,000 in 2022. “That’s a huge jump, but it’s not that far off from where we were five years ago,” Cavanaugh said. The 2016 ceiling was set at 85,000 by President Barack Obama’s administration. Given the four-year drop in the resettlement ceiling under the Trump administration, and thus the decline of federal funding available for resettlement agencies, West Michigan nonprofits have had to do some rebuilding of staffing numbers and expanding their infrastructure to accommodate the higher numbers of refugees the region will be able to settle this year and next, Cavanaugh said. He noted the U.S. resettlement caps do not come close to reflecting the amount of need worldwide. “The refugee crisis around the world is at the highest that it’s ever been,” Cavanaugh said. “Even (the aspirational 125,000 cap for 2022) is a drop in the bucket compared to the number of refugees that are displaced around the world, which is in the 20 million range.” Cavanaugh said Samaritas and its partner organizations are always looking for church groups or individuals who are willing to be matched with a refugee family to walk alongside as they get settled in the U.S. Those interested in helping can visit samaritas.org/ new-americans to learn more or donate to the program.

Consumers Energy speeds up transition CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

“For decades, Michigan has spent billions on imported coal, and its demise as Michigan’s main source of electricity is finally on the horizon,” added Charlotte Jameson, program director of energy for the Michigan Environmental Council. “This historic and critical announcement from Consumers Energy to shutter coal plants ahead of schedule will improve the health of Michigan residents and protect our Great Lakes from pollution. However, we are skeptical of the transition to using additional natural gas to fulfill our state’s energy needs.” Jameson said the MEC will continue to be active in putting forward ways for Consumers to more rapidly transition to fully carbon-free energy, energy efficiency and battery storage.

NOMINATE AN EMERGING LEADER TODAY AT GRBJ.COM. VENUE SPONSOR

To learn about available sponsorship opportunities, contact sponsor@grbj.com.

GOLD SPONSORS

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

ACCOUNTING

It earned reaccreditation, originally awarded in 2016, for meeting the criteria established through the CFAI’s voluntary self-assessment and accreditation program.

Rehmann, a fully integrated financial services and advisory firm, recently was named a 2021 “Top Firm by AUM” by Accounting Today. The recognition ranks CPA firms involved in financial planning by total assets under management (AUM).

HEALTH

Seramount, formerly Working Mother Media, recognized Spectrum Health on its 2021 list of Best Companies for Multicultural Women.

ARTS

Grand Rapids Youth Symphony selected Yaniv Segal as its new conductor.

BANKING

Consumers Credit Union recently added Matthew Dygert as manager of Segal its Downtown Kalamazoo and Corner @Drake offices, Kate Skinner as mortgage loan officer and Vanessa Zech as manager of the TellerPlus+ team. Grand River Bank hired Robert Robbins as vice president, commercial lender. Old National Bank hired a pair of community banking center managers. Juan Carlos Muñoz is responsible for the retail team at the downtown Grand Rapids branch and Cherri Johns leads the Northland Banking Center.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Hire For Hope named Tasia Allison recruiting and consulting manager.

EDUCATION

Catholic Central High School hired Terrence (Terry) Tyrrell as the first school president under a new leadership model. Grand Valley State University has been named a 2021 “Best for Vets” college by the national news outlet Military Times.

Roehm

Joanne Roehm recently became director for Western Michigan University’s Grand Rapids regional location. She is the

JUL 12-MID AUG Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Camp Curious Program. Includes in-person and virtual options. For kids pre-K through 12th grade, using the museum as a learning lab through a variety of camp offerings. Cost: $35 for single-day, in-person camps; $40 for multi-day Digital Discovery sessions, with discounts available for museum members. Information/ registration: grpm.org/Educlasses. JUL 12 Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce Government Matters Zoom Meeting - with Elected Officials. 8-9 a.m. Information/registration: (616) 531-5990 or michelle@southkent.org. JUL12 West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum annual meeting. Topic is update on progress of regional and state sustainability goals. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. LMCU Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. Cost: $19-$24 members; $27-$32 nonmembers. Includes lunch. Information/registration: info@wmsbf.org. JUL 13 Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce West Michigan Minority Contractors After Hours. 3:30-5 p.m. Cost: free/ members and nonmembers. Information/ registration: grandrapids.org. JUL 15 Builders Exchange of Michigan BX Summer & Networking Virtual Series. Topic is Lead Awareness: The Basics of Employee Exposure to Lead in the Workplace. 3-5 p.m. Cost: $10. Information/registration: (616) 9498650, courtney@grbx.com, or home.grbx.

CHANGE-UPS & CALENDAR

The Ingalls Pictures team is joined by members of the GR Women of Color business group at a 2019 open house. Courtesy Ingalls Pictures

Ingalls Pictures unveils new space “We’ve got a room big enough to build a spaceship for a music video.” That’s how brothers Ned and Hugh Ingalls describe the new Ingalls Pictures video production space. The new location, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite B148, officially opened with a celebration on July 11. The brothers started their video production company in 2015, when they were 20 and 22 years old, respectively. Six years later, they lead a team of 10 with a diverse portfolio of award-winning commercial and creative work. “We’ve been incredibly fortunate,” Hugh said. “Each of us looks at the world differently. But there’s a level of respect and commitment that makes great things possible. We’ve had that all along.” former director of strategic initiatives and LaughFest for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Brian Farrell, a senior wealth management associate at Greenleaf Trust, earned Certified Financial Planner certification.

FOUNDATIONS

Kalamazoo Community Foundation promoted Stacey Charron-Milnikel to the position of donor relations coordinator.

Uccello’s Hospitality Group promoted Kayla Britten to director of finance and team relations. The National Association of College and University Food Services presented Hope College Dining Services with a gold award in the 2020 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards, in the residential dining concepts for medium institutions category.

The city of Grand Rapids earned its 36th consecutive certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada.

Wyoming-based Brann’s Steakhouse and Grill recently celebrated 50 years of service at an open house hosted by owner Tommy Brann.

The Grand Rapids Fire Department once again has achieved accredited agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).

com/event/summer-safety-series-2021lead-awareness.

Club. Cost: $225/golfer. Information/ registration: grandrapids.org/event/thechamber-open.

JUL 15 Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Business Exchange Summer Series. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Watermark Country Club. Features two rounds of networking around lunch table. Cost: $35/members, $50/nonmembers. Information/registration: grandrapids.org. JUL 15 Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Event. Topic: It’s Time For Summer Camp! by Scott Blakeney, executive director, IKUSIndian Trails Camp. Noon-1:15 p.m., Indian Trails Camp, 0-1859 Lake Michigan Drive. Information/registration: grrotary.org. JUL 16 Migrant Legal Aid Cup of Justice Golf Fundraiser. 9 a.m. shotgun start, The Links at Bowen Lake Golf Course, 12990 Bradshaw St. NE, Gowen. Cost: $100/ single, $400/foursome. Information/ registration: migrantlegalaid.org/events/ cup-of-justice. JUL 16 Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce 3rd Friday Networking Lunch. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., DoubleTree Grand Rapids Airport, 4747 28th St. SE. Cost: $17/members, $22/nonmembers. Information/registration: bob@southkent.org. JUL 19 Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce The Chamber Open. Attracts a wide range of decision makers, community leaders and entrepreneurs from a variety of businesses to play 18 holes of golf. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Watermark Country

LEISURE/RECREATION

Snap Fitness, a 24/7 fitness concept with over 1,000 clubs across the globe, announced that Michael Newenhouse, club owner of two Hudsonville locations, has been honored with the Member Engagement Award at the organization’s annual franchisee conference.

LEGAL

Labor and employment attorney Brian K. Girard joined Warner Norcross + Judd as senior counsel. Warner Norcross + Judd partner Rachel J. Foster has been named one of Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s 2021 Michigan Go To Lawyers in real estate and condominium law. Associate attorney James Lamb joined the transportation law practice group at Plunkett Cooney.

GOVERNMENT

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation awarded Redevelopment Ready Communities certification to the city of Kentwood for its efforts in establishing a solid foundation to attract private investment and further build on municipal assets.

FOOD

The Spectrum Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Center at Blodgett Hospital recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.

JUL 19-20 Cloud Security Alliance West Michigan Second Annual Cloud Security Conference. Will include more than 30 top security and technology vendors, so attendees can learn more about the best solutions for their businesses, companies or organizations. Lake Michigan Credit Union Ball Park (Whitecaps). Information/registration: cloudcon.us. JUL 20 Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Zoom Diversity And Talent Series. 9-10 a.m. Cost: $15/members, $25/ nonmembers. Information/registration: grandrapids.org/event/diversity-talentseries-2021-07-20. JUL 21 Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce Zoom Networking. 9-10 a.m. Members only. Cost: free. Information/registration: muskegon.org/events-programs/ chamber-events. JUL 24 Blandford Nature Center Outdoor Concert Series. Featuring Last Gasp Collective. 7-9 p.m., Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW. Cost: $20/members, $25/nonmembers. Tickets must be purchased prior to show. Information/registration: blandfordnature center.org. JUL 27 Wyoming Business Leaders Meeting. 8-9 a.m., Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW, Wyoming. Information/registra-

West Michigan representatives on the new Michigan Judicial Council are Judge Jon Van Allsburg and Justin Roebuck, Ottawa County clerk; Judge William Baillargeon in Allegan County; and Tamara Brubaker-Salcedo, public member from Kent County.

Lamb

NONPROFITS

The World Affairs Council of Western Michigan elected to its board of directors Brent Case, The Right Place; Chris Hickmann, BDO; Frances

tion: (616) 261-4500 or d.kuba@instant cashmi.com. JUL 29 Grand Rapids Chamber Of Commerce Create Great Leaders Annual Party. Ticket sales help provide deserving participants scholarships to Create Great Leaders programs. 7-9:30 p.m., The Piazza at Studio Park. Cost: $80/members, $110/nonmembers. Information/registration: https://www.grandrapids.org/event/ cgl-annual-party. AUG 1 Family Promise of Grand Rapids Family Frolic At The Zoo. Funds raised will help homeless families and children move home. 6:30-9 p.m., John Ball Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton St. Cost: $10/adults, free/children under 18. Information/registration: bit.ly/ZooFrolic. AUG 9 Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce Government Matters Zoom Meeting - with Elected Officials. 8-9 a.m. Information/registration: (616) 531-5990 or michelle@southkent.org. AUG 10 The Right Place Webinar Series. Topic is The Pivot: Updating and Rewriting Systems and Processes Within Your Company. 11 a.m.-noon. Cost: free. Information/registration: rightplace.org/ events. AUG 10 Chipping for Charity Golf Outing. The 33rd annual event, sponsored by EHTC, benefits Boys and Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth. Scott Lake Country Club, 911 Hayes NE, Comstock Park. Foursomes, $550;

Hogsten, Haworth; Ingrid Shane, UFP Industries; and Sungjin Yoo, Ottawa Avenue Private Capital. Warner Norcross + Judd attorney Justin W. Stemple has been appointed to the NIA Centre board. Frank Acosta Jr., digital marketing manager at Independent Bank, joined the board of directors at Affinity Mentoring. D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s appointed Colette Beighley, CFRE, to the position of chief advancement officer. Matthew T. Nelson, a partner with Warner Norcross + Judd LLP, has been appointed to the board of directors of the Conductive Learning Center of North America. Urban Alliance Inc. appointed Chris Pompey to the role of interim executive director. Pompey formerly served as director of prevention prior to replacing Luke Kujacznski, who served as executive director for six years before leaving the organization in May. The West Michigan Environmental Action Council added board members Ara Seo, Keli Christopher and Tom Christy.

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Former MLive reporter Jada Fisher joined Byrum & Fisk Advocacy Communications as communications coordinator.

REAL ESTATE

Advantage Commercial Real Estate hired Jeff Hainer to head up its research department and Blake Bruursema was hired as a research intern.

CHANGE-UPS POLICY: The Business Journal welcomes submissions to the Change-Ups section. Send announcements concerning personnel changes, new businesses, changes of address etc. to Change-Ups Editor, Grand Rapids Business Journal, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or email bjchangeups@grbj.com.

twosomes, $300; individuals, $150. Information/registration: ehtc.com/events/ chipping-for-charity-information-page. AUG 12 Baker Holtz 8th Annual Charity Golf Outing. Benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids. Boulder Creek Golf Club. 10 a.m. registration, 11 a.m. shotgun start. Information/registration: bakerholtz.com/baker-holtz-annualcharity-golf-outing. AUG 12 Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce Networking Event. 2021 Future 15 recipients will be honored. 4:30-6:30 p.m., The Deck, 1601 Beach St., Muskegon. Information/registration: bit.ly/3vxtN5O. AUG 13-15 Grand Rapids Comic-Con Summer Bash. Aug. 13, noon-7 p.m., Aug. 14, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Aug. 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., DeltaPlex Arena. Cost: $5-$50. Information/registration: grcomiccon.com. CALENDAR POLICY: The Business Journal welcomes submissions to the calendar section. Send items to Calendar Editor, Grand Rapids Business Journal, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or email bjcal endar@grbj.com. Submissions must be received at least three weeks prior to the event. The Business Journal calendar posted on the publication’s website (grbj.com) includes listings for events extended beyond those printed in the weekly publication that are limited by space restrictions.

PUBLIC RECORD MORTGAGES

Selected mortgages filed with Kent County Register of Deeds CONSERVATION PROPERTIES LLC, TCF National Bank, Ada Twp., $1,000,000 SWEENEY, Andrew et al, First United Credit Union, Vergennes Twp., $366,000 DISHAW, David L., CMG Mortgage, Wyoming, $400,000 MACLEAN, Duncan M. III et al, Old National Bank, East Grand Rapids, $548,250 HUGHES, Brian D. et al, Huntington National Bank, Wyoming, $387,000 SCHAEFER & PROCTOR TRUST, ChoiceOne Bank, Parcel: 411327104094, $575,000 NEW HOPE HOMES LP, Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids, Parcel: 411336476045, $500,000 NEWHOF, John et al, Independent Bank, Gaines Twp., $445,200 FILD, Daniel et al, Quicken Loans, Cascade Twp, $390,000 HODEL, Jason C. et al, Independent Bank, Plainfield Twp., $501,276 KNOLL, Gregory et al, Huntington National Bank, East Grand Rapids, $530,000 DZINGLE, Jared N. et al, First United Credit Union, Ada Twp., $366,000 POKORZYNKI, Ryan et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Algoma Twp., $390,000 DANEFF, Kyle et al, Neighborhood Loans, Cannon Twp., $517,000 KALIL, Jeffrey D. et al, Independent Bank, East Grand Rapids, $399,600 SCHLOFF, Nathan J., Arbor Financial Credit Union, Parcel: 411407279012, $449,540 NEIL, Jason V., Old National Bank, Cannon Twp., $677,800 ROYAL GLEN ASSOCIATES LP, Bank of America, Plainfield Twp., $26,000,000 CLYDE PARK DEVELOPMENT LLC, A&R Development LLC, Byron Twp., $708,502 LEMIEUX, Glenn E. et al, Macatawa Bank, East Grand Rapids, $348,000 AHP WALKER LLC, TCF National Bank, Walker, $2,729,922 AHP EAST BELTLINE LLC, TCF National Bank, Grand Rapids Twp., $2,399,208 KNOWLTON, Terence D. et al, Leader Bank, Rockford, $400,000 GROVER, John W. et al, Old National Bank, Byron Twp., $373,000 ROSSER, Dawn W., Amerisave Mortgage Corp., Cascade Twp., $548,000 HOEDEMAN, Jack et al, Northern Mortgage Services, Algoma Twp., $472,000 MEJIA ARIEL, Eduardo et al, Independent Bank, Cannon Twp., $632,000 TYSON, Dennis L. et al, ChoiceOne Bank, Algoma Twp., $355,500 ARORA, Vishal, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $506,350 DULL, Matthew et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Ada Twp., $548,200 ASRAN, Hossameldeen, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Algoma Twp., $388,500 SALAY, Kyle R. et al, Nations Lending Corp., Cannon Twp., $489,250 FOSTER, Bradley N. et al, Mercantile Bank, Cascade Twp., $546,000 SCHMIDT, Jeremy D. et al, Plus Relocation Mortgage, Ada Twp., $460,750 LAKESHORE HOME INVESTMENTS LLC, Arbor Financial Credit Union, Parcel: 411407279012, $449,540 GOLIN, Rachel et al, Mortgage 1, East Grand Rapids, $598,500 MILBOURNE, Joseph et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Lowell, $498,500 TRUSZKOWSKI, John A. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Vergennes Twp., $432,250 SYNHORSE, David et al, Macatawa Bank, Plainfield Twp., $33,155,665 CARROLL, Thomas C. et al, Fifth Third Bank, Parcel: 411433203007, $548,250 HALL TRUST, JPMorgan Chase Bank, Cascade Twp., $400,000 KRAGT, Ryan R., Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp., Gaines Twp., $548,200 MOKMA, William A., Huntington National Bank, Cannon Twp., $350,500 SCALO, Daniel et al, Mercantile Bank, Cannon Twp., $358,756 FOUR GREEN HOUSES LLC, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Doran’s Assessor’s Plat, $960,000 SINES, Michael J. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $416,250 PLANTINGA, Briar E., Independent Bank, Parcel: 411810152002, $385,000 MEEK, Bradford et al, Cason Home Loans, Parcel: 411427151002, $397,000 SILVER, Aaron et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $439,842 BRITTON & KALLIK TRUST, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Parcel: 411424400053, $881,250 MULDER, Allyson, Morgan Stanley Private Bank, East Grand Rapids, $780,000 MUNDWILER, Kai S. et al, Neighborhood Loans, Cascade Twp., $440,000 FLANNERY, Paul et al, ChoiceOne Bank, Alpine Twp., $488,000 HALLAND, John G. Jr. et al, ChoiceOne Bank, Parcel: 411424400088, $548,250 THAKUR, Manish K. et al, Quicken Loans, Ada Twp., $520,000 YOUNG, Timothy L. et al, ChoiceOne Bank, Plainfield Twp., $390,000 LIGHT, Danielle D., Lake Michigan Credit

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL Union, Byron Twp., $548,250 PETERSON, Stephen et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Plainfield Twp., $693,500 INTERRA HOMES LLC, West Michigan Community Bank, Algoma Twp., $464,723 SAENS, Steven R. et al, Quicken Loans, Byron Twp., $357,100 THIELMANN, Stefan et al, Consumers Credit Union, Parcel: 411414127053, $528,000 MURRAY, James A. et al, Inlanta Mortgage, Parcel: 411809426017, $396,500 HE, Bei Y. et al, Pennymac Loan Services, Caledonia, $366,108 KORTE, David B. et al, Bank of America, Parcel: 411411402028, $829,000 POPE, Morgan et al, Neighborhood Loans, Ada Twp., $469,200 FABER, Chad A. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Plainfield Twp., $397,100 MEMON, Humna A. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cannon Twp., $498,655 BOYNTON, Adam et al, Ruoff Mortgage Co., Plainfield Twp., $499,000 GORENEWEG, Mathew et al, United Bank, Parcel: 412111322004, $460,000 JC4ME LLC, Grand River Bank, Parcel: 411826427005, $552,000 COTTAGE GROUP INC., Lake Michigan Credit Union, Parcel: 411324330010, $406,400 POSKEY, Daniel et al, Neighborhood Loans, Ada Twp., $672,000 GOLDMAN TRUST, Old National Bank, Cascade Twp., $380,000 BEMBEN, Jonathan et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cannon Twp., $471,750 AUSTIN, Jathan K. et al, Quicken Loans, Parcel: 411801177007, $348,994 VLOEDMAN, Joseph M. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Parcel: 411809227030, $394,250 JON TIMMER LLC, Mercantile Bank, Parcel: 411433227003, $2,062,500 VANLAAN, Steven J. et al, Quicken Loans, Vergennes Twp., $426,000 GROVER, Maxwell B. et al, Grand River Bank, Gaines Twp., $372,000 SANGREGARIO, Janathan J., Quicken Loans, Walker, $426,500 SANDACK, Steven et al, Quicken Loans, Byron Twp., $424,000 1250 60TH STREET VENTURES LLC et al, ChoiceOne Bank, Wyoming, $6,879,188 THIEL, Todd et al, Finance of America Mortgage, Cascade Twp., $403,500 BEARD, Trent G. et al, Independent Bank, Parcel: 411412381011, $613,000 EROYAN, Steven et al, Neighborhood Loans, Ada Twp., $464,000 KENT, Denise et al, Consumers Credit Union, Ada Twp., $400,000 LUND, Jonathan et al, Independent Bank, Plainfield Twp., $620,000 LAFAVE, Jordan et al, Raymond James Bank, East Grand Rapids, $750,000 HEWLETT, Cheyenne A., Academy Mortgage Corp., Wyoming, $399,000 NELSON, Matthew et al, Huntington National Bank, Parcel: 411427428005, $549,000 FRANKS, Michelle, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Ada Twp., $668,000 MURPHY TRUST, Compass Mortgage, Caledonia, $376,000 VANDERARK, Brian L. et al, Lakeview Loan Servicing, East Grand Rapids, $448,500 GILLUM, Shawn E. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Byron Twp., $377,072 ALPINE & 96 INVESTMENT LLC, Community Choice Credit Union, Walker, $1,600,000 NORWOOD, David E. et al, Carrington Mortgage Services, Cascade Twp., $406,811 YOUNG, Mark D. et al, Quicken Loans, East Grand Rapids, $463,500 SULKA, Mark et al, Quicken Loans, Parcel: 411425480027, $405,636 ANTER, Douglas J. et al, Quicken Loans, Byron Twp., $412,200 KLOOSTER, Samuel J. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $850,000 ANDERSON, David et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Plainfield Twp., $356,155 CLYDE PARK STORAGE LLC, Horizon Bank, Byron Twp., $4,000,000 T BOSGRAAF HOMES LLC, Mercantile Bank, Parcel: 412114156012, $810,000 KEMP, Ryan et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $548,250 GREENWAY, Thomas R. et al, Old National Bank, East Grand Rapids, $355,000 DIXON, Joseph et al, Quicken Loans, Byron Twp., $395,781 RALYA, Joshua et al, Quicken Loans, Cascade Twp., $492,000 HITCHCOCK, Benjamin et al, Better Mortgage Corp., Byron Twp., $371,370 FILUSH, Brett et al, Better Mortgage Corp., Parcel: 411507201016, $660,814 THOMPSON, James E. Jr. et al, First State Bank, Cannon Twp., $383,000 SANFORD, John G. et al, Zillow Home Loans, Cascade Twp., $376,000 SITERLET, Robert et al, Mortgage 1, Courtland Twp., $548,250 POWELL, Christopher T. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $373,015 SIEVERS, Shane et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Parcel: 411321102048, $437,000 SIWATEK, Kevin et al, Huntington National Bank, Gaines Twp., $650,000 L WALT & ASSOCIATES LLC, Mercantile

Bank, Kentwood, $1,250,000 KITTELL, Jeffrey et al, Finance of America Mortgage, Cascade Twp., $374,163 BLAUW, Richard J. Jr. et al, Farm Credit Services, Caledonia Twp., $950,000 INTERRA HOMES LLC, Mercantile Bank, Plainfield Twp., $502,500 JTB HOMES LLC, Mercantile Bank, Plainfield Twp., $522,000 JTB HOMES LLC, Mercantile Bank, Plainfield Twp., $562,500 LEMAIRE, Dean M. et al, Mercantile Bank, Cannon Twp., $495,000 WRUBEL, Erica L. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Byron Twp., $597,000 ACKERMAN, Margaret A., Keller Mortgage, Parcel: 411431135043, $379,000 HETH, Nicholas et al, Guaranteed Rate, Cannon Twp., $367,500 VANDERHEIDE, Jill M., Grand River Bank, Parcel: 411731480075, $351,000 KAMAK LLC, Fifth Third Bank, Bowne Twp., $999,000 SLOAN, John et al, United Bank, Byron Twp., $485,000 EVERGREEN-PRAIRIE APTS LLC, MSU Federal Credit Union, Wyoming, $1,612,500 PLACENTINI, Brian et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Ada Twp., $460,750 SILVERTHORN, William et al, Trustone Financial Credit Union, Kentwood, $800,000 ROURK, Jason et al, Quicken Loans, Rockford, $345,950 HAMILTON, Joseph et al, Quicken Loans, Parcel: 411424300036, $500,000 ALMONTE, Gerson et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $380,000 MADSEN, Lance et al, Grand River Bank, Parcel: 411309326035, $453,500 HENDGES, Jason et al, Independent Bank, Nelson Twp., $520,000 SORIANO, Michael G. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Byron Twp., $386,100 DALEY-FELL, Adam J., Quicken Loans, Caledonia, $428,050 PATRA, Sanjay E. et al, Fifth Third Bank, East Grand Rapids, $596,000 HAWKINS, Tess R. et al, Incredible Bank, Byron Twp., $348,000 VANHOUTE, Bradley A., Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cannon Twp., $656,000 EASY HOUSE FLIPS LLC, TCF National Bank, Parcel: 411429277003, $750,000 KIRK, Bradley D. et al, Newrez LLC, Lake Drive Manor Add., $365,325 PILBEAM, Kristy et al, Independent Bank, Byron Twp., $430,000 BRENNAN, James B., Neighborhood Loans, Parcel: 411810401068, $359,000 BIRCHWOOD LOWELL APTS LLC, MSU Federal Credit Union, Lowell, $892,500 MIKULA, Christopher J. et al, Guaranteed Rate, Parcel: 411412380005, $523,800 BURNS, Benjamin E. et al, Mercantile Bank, East Grand Rapids, $450,000 JM DAVITA LLC et al, Canandaigua National Bank & Trust Co., Parcel: 411429310005, $18,600,000 VEROUWE, Jason et al, United Wholesale Mortgage, Courtland Twp., $383,915 R&J PROPERTY INVESTMENTS LLC, Economic Development Foundation, Plainfield Twp., $531,000 WOLTER, Christopher et al, PNC Bank, East Grand Rapids, $674,000 RICKERT, Jeffrey et al, Quicken Loans, Vergennes Twp., $368,608 CHRISTIANSON TRUST, Bank of America, Parcel: 411519152047, $585,800 TMC COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES LLC, West Michigan Community Bank, Byron Twp., $4,127,000 VARLEY, Philipp et al, Citizens Bank, Ada Twp., $433,700 BAKER, Jordan E. et al, Independent Bank, Byron Twp., $369,038 HERBEL, Aimee et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $408,750 LIPON, Eric et al, Neighborhood Loans, Rockford, $366,225 MORGAN, Nathaniel W., Benchmark Mortgage, Plainfield Twp., $409,500 NIELSEN, Joseph E. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Byron Twp., $521,842 DUEMLER, Nathaniel S. et al, FirstBank, Plainfield Twp., $368,750 VANDERMOLEN, David E. et al, Huntington National Bank, Cannon Twp., $520,000 HUHN, Kyle et al, United Bank, Parcel: 411430452014, $380,000 MICHIGAN CHIN BAPTIST CHURCH, Terlaan Trust, Kentwood, $450,000 LYNN, Michael et al, Guaranteed Rate, East Grand Rapids, $800,000 MELLEMA TRUST, Finance of America Mortgage, Cannon Twp., $486,000 NEWTON, Andrew et al, Huntington National Bank, East Grand Rapids, $548,000 TRAPP, Clinton K. et al, JPMorgan Chase Bank, Parcel: 411413226014, $756,000 MARNEY, Blaine, Finance of America Mortgage, Algoma Twp., $378,250 CRAMER, Kathleen et al, Independent Bank, East Grand Rapids, $363,000 LEEP, Kevin A. et al, TCF National Bank, Plainfield Twp., $532,000 HARRELL, Jeffrey et al, Crosscountry Mortgage, Grattan Twp., $519,900 MILLER, Christopher A. et al, Huntington

National Bank, Plainfield Twp., $363,500 WOLVEN INVESTMENTS LLC, Macatawa Bank, Rockford, $780,000 SEEGMILLER, Colin N. et al, Old National Bank, Ada Twp., $460,000 ELHIRST, Dennis et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Vergennes Twp., $418,000 MATTHEWS, John M. et al, Huntington National Bank, East Grand Rapids, $440,000 FREDRICKSON, Jon et al, North American Savings Bank, Byron Twp., $351,600 ANDREWS, Gregory et al, Quicken Loans, Parcel: 411429455007, $371,450 NIEDERHUTH, Chad E. et al, Lakeview Loan Servicing, Parcel: 411432427003, $358,785 LEINBERGER, Todd et al, Steve List et al, Parcel: 411432428009, $467,000 MOADDEL, Armin et al, Quicken Loans, East Grand Rapids, $357,200 CHEN, Edward Y., NBKC Bank, Plainfield Twp., $436,000 BROWN, Joseph T. et al, Huntington National Bank, Parcel: 411906489030, $502,600 WOLOWSKI TRUST, Independent Bank, Parcel: 411427431006, $558,000 KUIPERS, Jason R. et al, Independent Bank, Caledonia, $598,000 VOORHIES, Alyssa, JPMorgan Chase Bank, East Grand Rapids, $452,000 WOZNIAK, Matthew R. et al, Better Mortgage Corp., Parcel: 410635140027, $364,271 COOPER, Laura et al, Benchmark Mortgage, East Grand Rapids, $525,000 PIKE, Jeffrey S. et al, Spring EQ LLC, Gaines Twp., $388,000 MCDERMOTT, Terrence et al, Crosscountry Mortgage, Ada Twp., $520,000 AUDU, Clement A. et al, Quicken Loans, Parcel: 411328407001, $418,279 MCNEILLY, Greg A. et al, PNC Bank, Parcel: 411430453003, $400,000 PATEL, Rajesh, Marshall Community Credit Union, Condo-Stonegate, $386,900 WEILER, James A. et al, Old National Bank, Lowell Twp., $625,000 DRERUP TRUST, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Cascade Twp., $375,500 VEEN, Allan D. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Plainfield Twp., $431,250 MCCULLEY, Benjamin et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Kentwood, $383,800 JANSSENS, Reuben J. et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Algoma Twp., $480,700 WISELEY, Aaron et al, Mercantile Bank, Cascade Twp., $367,000 BERKELEY, Nathan et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Ada Twp., $446,250 RODRIGUEZ, Michael et al, Old National Bank, Sparta Twp., $359,000 RAMACHANDRAN, Poornima et al, Finance of America Mortgage, Parcel: 411425227003, $432,250 DOYLE, Scott M. et al, Mercantile Bank, Plainfield Twp., $360,800 BRANOFF, Christopher et al, Level One Bank, Cascade Twp., $548,250 SLAMP, Christopher et al, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Plainfield Twp., $409,686 1 DREAM ESTATES LLC, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Wyoming, $535,081 KNOESTER, Peter A. et al, TCF National Bank, Parcel: 411423251037, $400,000 RUSSO, Peter et al, United Bank, Gaines Twp., $455,000 BROWN, Brent M. et al, Mercantile Bank, Cascade Twp., $510,000 BATES, Lucas J., Lake Michigan Credit Union, Gaines Twp., $340,000 VANEERDEN, Charles C., TCF National Bank, Parcel: 411432478002, $426,100 JOYNER, John O. et al, First United Credit Union, Caledonia, $372,000

CO-PARTNERSHIPS FILED

Co-partnerships filed with the Kent County Clerk COLORFUL THREADS CLOTHING BOUTIQUE, 4040 100th, Byron Center, Jaime Burns, Kathe Klamer EL MAYIMBE EXTEVEZ INVESTMENTS, 753 Liberty SW, Francisco A. Estevez Perez et al EXTREME REMODELING SERVICES, 2924 Taft SW, Wyoming, Alexis Querol et al FABULOUS NAILS, 3862 52nd St. SE, Thi Nguyen, Thi Be JOHNNY D’S BIKE BAGS, 334 Auburn SE, John A. Despres et al LUXURIOUS BAYOU BOTANICALS, 1721 Willard SE, Plessy Johnson, Rena Vianca MIEDEMA BROTHERS, 9707 Burlingame SW, Byron Center, David Miedema, Sharon Miedema Dykhouse PROLIFIC GOLD VISUALS, 732 Delaware SE, Willis Q. Booker, Kassie M. White RODRIGUEZ AFC HOME, 11422 Foreman Farms Court, Lowell, Angel Rodriguez, Sherry Rodriguez SNACKZ MONSTER, 139 Burton SE, Robert Eubanks, Merari Jreimiah TK BUSINESS SERVICES, 1692 Gloryfield SW, Byron Center, Kari A. Zingale, Thomas J. Zingale

ASSUMED NAMES FILED

Assumed names filed with the Kent County Clerk AE&G EXPEDITE DELIVERY, 3110 Claystone

JULY 12, 2021

SE, Beverly H. Alexander ASIANNESE CLEANERS, 24 Inca SW, La A. Williams B. CHANELS, 4038 Woodland Creek SE, Kentwood, Tamyra I. Burrell BANQUET TYME EVENT CENTER, 1421 Edward SE, Charlean Allen BLACK PEARLS BY KISSES SMITH, 2148 Breton SE, Laniqua Q. Smith BOUJEE BRATZ, 24 Inca, La A. Williams CLEAN HAVEN, 4860 18 Mile NE, Cedar Springs, Jessica L. Hoogerhyde HEINZSIGHT, 409 Enclave Court SE, Lynne Heinz HOPE CHEST QUILTS, 1020 6th NW, Andrew J. Jeffrey HIGH TEA, 805 Gladstone SE, Melissa J. Langley K9 LEVEL UP, 1044 61st St. SE, Brooke Steinbach LIVE ACTION PUPPETS, 1915 Millbrook SE, Pamela Groom MALY CLEANING SERVICES, 8523 Freeland SW, Byron Center, Mildren Suarez Santos MAXIM TRUCKING, 823 Solon, Cedar Springs, Steve Maxim MEGAN KATHLEEN PHOTOS, 500 E. Fulton, Megan Dunn ON TIME FREIGHT LINES, 1319 S. Division, Martin I. Lewis PARKER DEKUBBER PRODUCTIONS, 258 Kenlock SE, Parker B. DeKubber PAW PRINT GARDENS, 601 Kinney NW, Walker, Darla Dubridge SIGNS THAT SCREAM, 6570 Millstream Loop SE, Caledonia, Dawn R. Drake SOUND THERAPY, 29 Sluyter SE, Kentwood, Larry A. Tillman SREYNEANG HOUT SALON, 1113 Tarrytown, Holland, Sreyneang Hout SUNDAY NIGHT FUNNIES, 439 Marywood NE, Brian Borbot SW1 VENTURES, 551 Plymouth SE, David Brown TOMORROW TASTE, 2409 31st St. SW, Wyoming, Gail M. Boyd VINTTHOR, 2309 Post Drive NE, Belmont, Denise M. Homrich WALKER BARBER STYLIST, 3969 Remembrance Road NW, Robert E. Stevens D CUTS, 614 Oakdale SE, Donell H. Flakes DAVE’S LAWN CARE PLUS, 2700 Foster NE, David C. Rogers FELINE WELLNESS CENTER, 1545 Diamond NE, Jennifer S. Gillum FIELDS SERVICES, 1007 Temple SE, David B. Fields G&E TINE & MORE, 833 Amber Ridge, Byron Center, Erica Gino GRAND RIVER PAINTING, 491 Cider Mill Drive, Middleville, Matthew J. Roberts, HOW DESIGNWORKS, 6871 Sienna SE, Caledonia, Howard A. Wright J.J. BOMBUS DESIGNS, 125 Prospect, Rockford, Julie Adgate JOE’S ATV’S & MORE, 1946 Kinney NW, Joseph M. Fernandez KALINOWSKI FINE ART STUDIO, 9120 Nestor NE, Comstock Park, Kathleen Kalinowski LOESCHNER’S VILLAGE GREEN MINIATURE GOLF, 4521 Chicago Drive, Grandville, Mark A. Loeschner LONER LOVE, 3758 Newcastle SE, Lester L. Green Jr. MICHIGAN DOG MAMA, P.O. Box 39, Sand Lake, Malinda Nowakowski NEXT CONVERSATION, 529 Hall SE, Rachel V. Merritt NORTH KENT ARMS, 1665 20 Mile NE, Kent City, William Mohr II POWER WASHING SOLUTIONS, 3245 Birchwood SW, Wyoming, Ricardo A. Amaya Morales RESIDENTIAL WOODWORKING, 8550 17 Mile NE, Cedar Springs, Gary A. Mills RIDE & CUT, 122 Larabelle SE, Javontae C. Rice RJS LAW, 5102 Byron Center SW, Wyoming, Richard J. Stolcenberg SIMPLY BREATHE YOGA, 333 Lamoreaux NW, Comstock Park, Sue Detechtermann SUPERIOR APPRAISALS, 10 White Hills NE, Dale Roels T.C. TILE, 140 W. Averill, Sparta, Timothy M. Cooper TETRAD MOON CRYPTO, 622 Prospect NE, Randall A. Springer UNIQUE YOU, 646 Franlin SE, Delphine F. Jenkins WEBB ENTERPRIZE, 6225 Lincolnshire SE, Anthony J. Webb WEST MICHIGAN GARDENS, 5040 Indian Lakes Road, Cedar Springs, Kolene R. Gibson WHITETAIL HANDYMAN AND LANDSCAPING, 1340 Union NE, Michael S. Schiedel WITH INTENTION, P.O. Box 39, Sand Lake, Malinda Nowakowski

PUBLIC RECORD AVAILABLE ONLINE: For the full version of this week’s Public Record, visit the Grand Rapids Business Journal’s website at grbj.com.

GRAND RAPIDS BUSINESS JOURNAL

JULY 12, 2021

Leaving their mark Smooth stroke.

he 2021 Michigan 50 Companies to Watch have left a big impact on the economy. Michigan is home to more than 800,000 small businesses, employing nearly 2 million people. Through the hardships of the past 16 months, these businesses discovered they were able to push through obstacles, create jobs and bring in more revenue. Through a rigorous selection process, two independent panels of judges from various entrepreneurial service organizations selected companies to be recognized on the Michigan’s 50 Companies to Watch list for 2021. These small businesses are located throughout the state, from the Upper Peninsula to the Thumb area. The businesses represent diverse industries and ownership, each bringing a unique identity that helps the economy of Michigan thrive. “The Michigan 50 Companies are second stage businesses who are on a growth path. Annually, they generate a significant amount of revenue for Michigan and create new jobs,” said Jennifer Deamud, chair of Michigan Celebrates Small Business, the organization that created Michigan’s

BUSINESS JOURNAL STAFF

50 Companies to Watch. “Given the economic environment over the past 18 months, it is exciting to see that small businesses are being innovative, staying relevant and as a result, they continue to grow.” From 2017-20, this year’s Michigan 50 Companies to Watch generated $1 billion in revenue and added 1,038 employees, both in Michigan and out of state, reflecting a 33.9% increase in revenue and 77.9% increase in jobs for the four years. That translates into a 10.3% annual revenue growth and 21.4% annual growth in employees. These companies project a 31.9% revenue increase and 24.3% growth in employees, both in Michigan and out of state, for 2021, compared to 2020. If their projections hold, these companies will have generated $1.4 billion in revenue and added 1,615 employees during the past five years — a 76.5% increase in revenue and 121.2% increase in jobs since 2016. The pandemic affected small businesses greatly, but with resilience, these 50 companies were able to adapt and rise to the challenges, Michigan Celebrates Small Business said. In 2020, the Michigan 50 had $304 million in total

annual revenue, a 12% increase in total annual revenue compared to 2019. Collectively, they had 2,371 full-time equivalent employees in 2020, and in 2021 they are projected to create 577 jobs. Michigan Celebrates Small Business will recognize the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch and Michigan’s Best Small Businesses on July 20, at the program’s 17th annual gala at the Breslin Center in East Lansing. The list of businesses that will be recognized, along with a link to buy tickets, can be found at MichiganCelebrates.org. I’LL HAVE ANOTHER The Beer Serves America Report found sales volume of cheap beer has been up in 2020 over the previous year, but more concerning is at least one-third of Michiganders are reluctant to quit drinking, even if prompted by a doctor. Alcohol.org, a site providing addiction treatment resources and recovery information, conducted a survey of 3,000 drinkers and found 33% of Michiganders admitted they would ignore their doctor’s advice to cut down on their alcohol consumption, compared to a national average of 28%.

Priority Application Deadline March 31

When broken down across states, those in Louisiana appeared to be the most dismissive of their doctor’s advice with 57% saying this was the case. Comparatively, only 13% of those in Wyoming admit to doing this. Additionally, 21% of respondents admitted they have lied to their doctor about how much alcohol they consume. Further analyzed, men (60%) were more likely to lie about their drinking habits to their doctor, as compared to women (40%). Further, 31% of respondents said they ignore medical advice to stop drinking while taking certain medications. With some treatment courses, such as antibiotics, the reason alcohol should be avoided is because its interaction with certain medication causes unpleasant side effects. If a patient is prescribed sleeping or anxiety medication, for example, alcohol can exacerbate side effects of drowsiness and may cause others, like dizziness or nausea. Some are unconvinced by this information as one in 10 said they are skeptical of medical professionals or studies saying alcohol is bad for them. People aren’t just fudging the truth to their physicians, either. One in five (20%) also admitted to being dishonest with friends and family about their drinking habits, according to the report. WHOLE AND WON Meijer announced it is making a $25,000 donation to Kids’ Food Basket on behalf of Nelly Korda, the 2021 Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give champion. In addition to donating tour-

STREET TALK nament proceeds to the Meijer Simply Give program, the retailer started a new tradition this year by contributing to a hunger relief program in a town of the champion’s choice. “The impact of last year’s events was felt worldwide, impacting countless families in need,” Meijer President and CEO Rick Keyes said. “We wanted to work with Nelly to identify an organization meaningful to her to help lessen that impact and make a difference.” The five-time LPGA Tour winner selected Kids’ Food Basket in Grand Rapids because she wanted to give back to the community that continues to support the LPGA Tour. “I just felt like I wanted it to stay in Grand Rapids,” said Korda, following her Father’s Day win. “I also love kids. I have always wanted to do something for underprivileged kids, and that’s the first thing that popped into my head. Feels like a good decision and it means so much to give back.” “We are so inspired by and grateful for this incredible gift from Nelly Korda,” said Bridget Clark Whitney, founding CEO of Kids’ Food Basket. “Through this gift Nelly continues to showcase how to be a role model for kids in local communities and demonstrates that we can all use our talents to work toward a greater good. This money ensure that West Michigan children are nourished so they can reach their limitless potential.” In total, the Meijer LPGA Classic has generated $7.4 million for food pantries across the Midwest to feed hungry neighbors.

PROFESSIONAL MBA • Earn your MBA in 22 months while working • Engage with a hands-on capstone consulting project • Tap into valuable community and business connections • Hybrid and remote learning options

THE TRANSFORMATION BEGINS HERE

• Personalized leadership development • Exceptional faculty www.gvsu.edu/seidmangrad

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

G RA ND

RA PI DS

Business Journal

™

Presents

Join Jon Gordon as he hosts this monthly webcast featuring America’s top business minds and thought leaders.

BE OUR GUEST. REGISTER FREE.

Go to: businessforumusa.com/grandrapids

The Novel Economy:

Thriving in a Digital Environment BRIAN SOLIS

This eight-time bestselling author and international keynote speaker is a world-renowned digital anthropologist and futurist who serves as the Global Innovation Evangelist at Salesforce. Forbes described him as “one of the more creative and brilliant business minds of our time.” ZDNet labeled him “one of the 21st century business world’s leading thinkers” and he was recently named a “Top Futurist Speaker” by Read/Write.

JULY 14 12 P.M. EST

VOTING ENDS AUGUST 6, 2021 Winners will be announced in the January/February 2022 issue of Grand Rapids Magazine!

#bestofgr

Visit grmag.com to cast your votes today!

The one-half acre community garden allows our residents individual space for gardening — and an opportunity to get to know their Eastgate neighbors, who are welcome to garden alongside us.

A GARDEN FOR THE SOUL.

10.875” WIDE X 14.5” TALL C5 Residents who love to garden continue to pursue their passion, with plenty of plots for planting and harvesting produce or plants and flowers for their home. Our team of chefs use fresh ingredients from our garden every day during the growing season when preparing a wide variety of meals served at Beacon Hill.

BEACONHILLGR.ORG | 616-608-8254

WE CARE FOR YOU

No matter what life brings Life Plan Communities provide the answer for the growing 10.875” WIDE X 14.5” TALL number of adults who are looking for the opportunity to enjoy an active, independent retirement while still planning forC6 the future.

A Life Plan Community is a particular type of retirement community that offers several levels of care on one campus:

INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE SKILLED NURSING & REHABILITATION

(both short- and long-term)

Beacon Hill’s care team is committed to keeping couples together. If you or your spouse ever need a different level of care, your options are all right here. Featuring beautifully-designed apartment homes for independent living and also on-campus assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and memory care. Beacon Hill has a rich tradition of providing top-notch skilled nursing services in a comfortable and welcoming setting for the past 60 years. The skilled nursing portion of our Beacon Hill facilities are state-of-the-art and equipped to care for the needs of our growing community.

1919 BOSTON STREET SE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49506

616-608-8254

BEACONHILLGR.ORG