Our Staff
Meet the Owners
Larry & Kera Platte and John & Christy Cherwinski are no strangers to running a business. Between the two couples, they have owned and operated several small businesses in and around the Gaylord community.
They also have personal experience placing a loved one in assisted living. It was through this experience that they realized they could do things better! The group set out to develop a fresh new approach in assisted living that would change not only the look and feel of the building but the level of service and professionalism available to meet the varied needs of its residents.
The couples researched and toured assisted living communities all over the state to determine what best practices they could bring to their community. They have committed to creating a welcoming, home like environment, hiring a highly qualified team with a sincere passion for serving seniors, providing three delicious home cooked meals every day.
While ensuring residents have plenty of opportunities for exercise, entertainment, social and creative activities. All four owners will be involved in the daily operations of The Porches to actively participate in the implementation of their vision.
Meet our Executive Director
Laura Beyer is new to the Gaylord community but her experience in assisted living and ensuring the provision of exceptional care and service to seniors spans 15 years. Her qualifications include a bachelors degree in management from Michigan State University and over 25 years of customer service experience.
Along with many years of continuing education in leadership, risk management, dementia care, documentation and licensing, she holds several certifications including the Certified Assisted Living Director (CALD) and the Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) programs. Among her most significant educational experience was moving her own parents from their home to assisted living.
Laura’s passion is helping families navigate the sometimes difficult and emotional process of moving a loved one to an assisted living community as well as watching residents thrive and flourish in their new environment.
Meet our Nurse
Jamie Kernozek, LPN is a life long Gaylord resident. She started her assisted living career as a caregiver twelve years ago. Since then, Jamie has earned her associate degree in nursing from Kirtland College and received her LPN licensing.
She has worked as a nurse for the past eight years in assisted living, long term care and a physician’s office. Jamie has found her passion working in assisted living. Getting to know the residents, celebrating special moments with them, and helping them feel their best always brings a smile to her face.