Kent City
Kent City, MI · Business
The Grand Rapids Press
John Ball Zoo meets ‘gold standard’ in accreditation review, CEO says
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — John Ball Zoo has earned another five years of accreditation after a national organization found it met rigorous professional standards for animal care, conservation, education, guest experience and operations, the zoo announced Wednesday. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums, or AZA, approved the accreditation following...
The Holland Sentinel
Gezellig new owner looks to carry on legacy in downtown Holland
Downtown Holland retailer Gezellig is under new ownership, but Heather Scholma plans to continue the existing mission and offerings the store is known for. Scholma took ownership of the business, 188 S. River Ave., in early September. She described Gezellig as a modern gift shop with a vintage heart that continues to look for unique offerings from small artisans. Scholma, who grew up in Hudsonville, said owning a small business had been a goal for years. When she came across the listing for Gezellig, she was "blown away" by the opportunity. “I didn’t know if the timing was right but I just couldn’t shake the idea and so I started pursuing it," she said. Scholma said the transition has gone smoothly, crediting the store’s staff for helping her navigate the change. “Their energy and love for this place is just contagious and has been so fun,” she said. “It is such a gift and I’m grateful for what they bring to this place.” As the business moves forward, Scholma said customers shouldn't expect major changes. “I think staying the course is the key,” Scholma said. “We are committed to honing our craft." Tony and Melissa VanderArk opened Gezelling in June
wgvunews.org
Generator business owner accused of pocketing customer deposits before shutting down
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel filed a lawsuit in Kent County against Brad Scott and his corporate entities for alleged violations of the Consumer Protection Act. The suit claims Scott operated Generator Supercenter franchises in Grand Rapids and near Detroit, accepting thousands of dollars in deposits for home generators despite knowing business closure was imminent.
westmichigannewspop.com
Construction firm names new President
Wolverine Construction, one of West Michigan’s oldest construction firms, has appointed Nolan Spencer as President, while Curt Mulder will continue as CEO. Spencer joined Wolverine as chief financial officer in 2024, overseeing finance, accounting, risk management, human resources and information technology. As president, he will lead day-to-day operations and advance the company’s strategic priorities.
ottawanewsnetwork.org
The Business Next Door: How Dutch immigrants built a business empire (The DePrees II)
The story of D.J. DePree is one of my favorites because it demonstrates the importance of management philosophy and assumptions about people and design. In Part I, I noted that Jan DePree was one of the first Dutch patriarchs in Zeeland, and that his descendants were among its most ethical and entrepreneurial. Among them, I highlighted Peter Henry DePree (DePree Hardware) and Cornelius (Con) DePree (DePree Chemical). This week, I share the story of D.J. DePree, the initial force behind Herman Miller.
lgrmag.com
Griffin named stalking horse bidder for BFG Supply assets
Griffin named stalking horse bidder for BFG Supply assets. Griffin Greenhouse Supplies has been named the stalking horse bidder for assets associated with BFG Supply and is evaluating warehouses, inventory and other holdings ahead of a targeted Oct. 22 transaction date. As the stalking horse bidder, Griffin establishes the initial...
13 ON YOUR SIDE
RiverTown Crossings announces 11 new stores opening in coming months
Fox17
Morning Buzz: September 30, 2026
Disclaimer: This is sponsored content. All opinions and views are of the advertiser and do not reflect the same of Fox 17. The farm once known as the home of Gene "The Pumpkin Man" is reopening as Evans Acres Family Farm on Thursday, with a grand reopening and ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. The new owners took over in 2025 after Gene passed away, and have spent the past year preparing to honor his legacy while building something new on the centennial farm, which dates back to 1885.
Fox17
Holland's Paint a Pot expands space, allows for three stations and 50 new seats
Paint a Pot is not a typical ceramics studio. The family-owned business offers a variety of ceramic options that are waiting to be painted over, allowing for whoever walks through their doors to create custom gifts and decor regardless of age or skill level. The store is owned and operated...
labelandnarrowweb.com
Grand Rapids Label invests in Durst Tau G3 Peak
Grand Rapids Label is continuously investing in new technology, which has led to business success for more than 142 years. The newest installation is the Durst Tau G3 Peak, which was recently added to the company’s production floor. The UV inkjet digital label press will help customers with a wide range of needs.
hfmmagazine.com
Furniture manufacturers focus on healing comfort
Furnishings manufacturers are prioritizing the patient experience in their new product introductions, with patient-centered design now a fundamental principle supporting healing, dignity and comfort. Additionally, more furnishings are hospitality-inspired. This means ergonomically supportive furniture for caregivers and patients — universal, modular designs that support a wide range of users, body...