February 05, 2016
Friday, Feb. 5, 2016
LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointment of Matthew Moersch, of Berrien Springs, and the reappointments of Michael Brenton, of Haslett, Steve Massie, of Grand Rapids, and Taylor Simpson, of Lake Leelanau, to the Grape and Wine Industry Council.
The 12-member council is housed in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. The council provides research on grapes and wine and offers marketing programs for Michigan’s wine industry.
“I would like to thank these appointees for the service and expertise they bring to this council,” Snyder said. “I am confident that each member will be a tremendous asset to Michigan’s growing food and agricultural economy.”
Appointment:
Moersch is partner/senior manager of Entente Sprits, LLC, a position he has held since 2002. Moersch is also the co-owner of Grape and Grain Tours which began in 2012. Moersch holds an associate’s degree in international business from Kalamazoo Valley Community College. He represents wine makers and replaces Walter Brys.
Reappointments:
Brenton is the president of Brenton Law Group where he is a worker’s compensation defense attorney. He previously worked for Murphy, Brenton and Spagnuolo, PC. He serves as the president of the Greater Lansing Vintners Club and is the current wine columnist for Lansing City Pulse Magazine. Brenton holds a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a law degree from the University of Notre Dame. He continues to represent the general public.
Massie is the director of merchandising of direct store delivery for Meijer. He previously served as customer vice president, national accounts and global initiatives for Mondelez International. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Webster University and a master’s degree from Michigan State University. He represents retailers.
Simpson is the sales, distribution, and marketing manager for Good Harbor Vineyards. She previously served in multiple capacities for Southern Wine and Spirits in Chicago. Simpson holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. She will continue to represent wine grape growers.
Members will serve three-year terms expiring Feb. 1, 2019. Their appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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