Ionia Innovators

05/16/2026

Mark Jennings of Mark Jennings CPA MBA PLC reminded us that even though tax season has ended, there is still time for individuals with extensions or unfiled returns to get their paperwork submitted. Mark and his team continue working through filings and are ready to help clients get caught up.

He also discussed the upcoming rollout of Trump Accounts, encouraging both employers and parents to learn more about the potential benefits. Employers may find advantages in contributing, while parents may want to consider opening accounts for their children early. Mark is available to help clients understand the details and answer questions as more information becomes available.

05/13/2026

Mike Knapp of ArrowSwift Printing & Office Supply shared examples of graphics created using artificial intelligence and discussed how rapidly the technology is improving.
While AI can generate impressive and beautiful images, Mike explained that the results don’t always fit standard print requirements. Factors such as the user’s prompt and the limitations of a particular AI platform can create challenges when preparing artwork for production. Customers interested in using AI-generated graphics can absolutely explore the technology, but should be prepared for possible editing and adjustments before final printing.

05/08/2026

Casey Gurnee of Gurnee Mechanical shared helpful information about the different types of furnaces commonly installed today and explained how SEER ratings affect efficiency and operating costs.

She walked us through the benefits of different efficiency levels and helped break down what homeowners should consider when choosing a new system. Casey also reminded us that a furnace and air conditioner are separate appliances, meaning both don’t necessarily need to be replaced at the same time unless there’s a good reason to do so.

05/06/2026

05/04/2026

Kevin Kasper of Sid’s Flower Shop shared insights on both preparing for Mother’s Day and what it’s like to take over a family business from his father.

He gave us a behind-the-scenes look at running a small business and the responsibility that comes with carrying on a legacy.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, Kevin also reminded us that it’s best to place floral orders early to ensure the best selection and timely delivery.

03/13/2026

Darrell Ockert of OC Construction & Garage Doors brought along samples of the garage doors he installs and shared insights from nearly 26 years in the business.

One line he recommends features spray foam insulation inside the door panels, providing an impressive R-18 insulation value. Darrell also demonstrated some of the specialized tools used to measure and adjust garage door springs, explaining that the springs are extremely powerful and can be dangerous for homeowners to handle without the proper training and equipment. With decades of experience, Darrell’s expertise is an invaluable resource for local homeowners.

02/24/2026

Lydia Ellison of Noble Creative shared an engaging presentation on the power of consistent branding for businesses.

Using examples from social media profiles, websites, promotional items, and merchandise, Lydia demonstrated how unified colors, fonts, and messaging elevate a company’s appearance. Strong, consistent branding not only builds recognition—it can positively impact the bottom line by creating trust and professionalism across every platform.

02/22/2026

Samantha Ringler of Edward Jones Investments shared practical insights on money management and how to think strategically about investments.

She explained her approach of organizing finances into three separate “buckets,” helping clients determine how to allocate funds among options such as non-qualified accounts, traditional plans, and Roth retirement accounts. Samantha walked through how to prioritize contributions based on individual circumstances and long-term goals.

One of the most admirable aspects of Samantha’s work is her dedication to her clients’ success. She focuses on helping them reach their goals—not on maximizing her own commission—building trust through integrity and thoughtful guidance.

02/19/2026

Kevin Kasper, second-generation owner of Sid’s Flower Shop, shared about the legacy of the business and his dedication to continuing the high standards set by his father, Sid.

With decades of experience working with plants, Kevin takes pride in offering the highest quality fresh flowers, along with expert consultation on living plants. For customers who prefer a zero-maintenance option, he also carries a beautiful selection of artificial arrangements. Sid’s Flower Shop continues to blend tradition, quality, and expertise to serve the community well.

02/02/2026

Mike Terranova of All Seasons Insurance kicked things off last Thursday with an insurance quiz—complete with candy bar prizes—and the group was clearly ready to play. Thanks to Mike’s ongoing education, it was less about finding the right answer and more about who could answer first. A few members walked away with impressive piles of treats that proved just how competitive the room had become!

Mike then opened the floor for questions and, as always, delivered clear, practical insights about insurance policies. From commercial, auto, and home coverage to umbrella, liability, and life insurance, All Seasons Insurance offers experienced professionals ready to help with a wide range of insurance needs.