Economic investment is crucial to recovery
At the heart of economic development is the well-being of people and communities.
Prepare to return to the office
It is almost certain the current pandemic will not alter realities long term any more than the 18th century yellow fever epidemic did.
West Michigan leaders need to ‘just keep swimming’
Now is our time.
Bankruptcy changes will help small firms, family farms
Changes to federal bankruptcy law will make it easier and less expensive for small businesses and family farmers to restructure or shed their debt.
State needs to collaborate on gender parity
On Aug. 18, 2020, we recognized the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, granting women the hard-earned right to vote in the United States, and reminding us all of Michigan’s leadership in having extended this right two years prior.
Preserve the past while preparing for the future
Sam Cummings’s essay, "Together, Grand Rapids Can Be No. 1" (page 16, Aug. 24 Business Journal), is brilliant.
Creative ways to cut down on e-discovery costs
This may finally be the time to address your organization’s litigation and e-discovery process — and could prove to be one of your biggest cost-savings opportunities.
Five ways to prepare for a remote school year
As school districts in Grand Rapids and across the country grapple with balancing students’ education while keeping everyone safe from a highly contagious virus, it’s becoming increasingly clear there might not be one right answer.
A mental health tsunami is building
The ongoing worldwide pandemic is colliding with unprecedented social injustice and unrest, wreaking havoc on our hearts and minds.
Together, Grand Rapids can be No. 1
As we collectively navigate the current “charged” political waters, I simply wish to remind us all of what has come before us. That many mayors, commissioners, city managers, businesspersons, philanthropists and community volunteers who have worked together to build our city of today.
Businesses forced to close deserve tax relief
Michigan campgrounds, hotels, libraries, museums, retail stores, casinos, barbershops, public swimming pools, restaurants, day camps, hospitals, laundromats, dentists, nail salons, day spas, car dealerships, bottle returns, vacation rentals, colleges and a host of other things are open, but not gyms or movie theaters.
Has the pandemic affected the value of your business service company?
Many business service company owners have been through the stress of several economic cycles, including the Great Recession.
A professional sales force
It’s one of the most common laments I hear from CSOs: “I wish I had a more professional sales force.”
Next steps for displaced workers
With the expiration of expanded unemployment benefits, many of West Michigan’s unemployed job seekers have questions about their options.
This is the year for Roth conversions
With extraordinary government spending and the lowest tax rates we have seen in a generation, now may be the time to consider converting your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA.
Report pegs four-year degrees as financial key
The Federal Reserve in its Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2019 measures well-being by education attainment.
Politics masquerading as environmental concern are at it again
I have written about Michigan’s Line 5 before. Last year, I called for a common-sense middle road that exercised caution in protecting our beautiful Great Lakes but did so in a manner that did not put the burden on the working-class folks of Michigan.
When a prenuptial agreement isn’t an option
Creating a thoughtful, sensible prenuptial agreement is an important step in the wedding planning process. However, many choose to avoid these agreements because it can be uncomfortable to suggest a prenup, much less discuss the specifics.
LTE: Column, cartoon were off the mark
Editor:Thank you for your work in keeping the community informed and engaged. Your publication is clearly devoted to helping our West Michigan communities thrive and grow.
Make mental health a priority when returning to work
As the state of Michigan begins to open up again and more employees head back to work, it’s important to make mental health a priority.