Stories

Feature Story Pat ApPaul's latest work is "Soverign," a photo zine and ArtPrize entry documenting drag in Muskegon.

Photographer explores Muskegon’s drag community for zine, ArtPrize project

Photographer Pat ApPaul’s latest project explores Muskegon’s drag community. He has a Kickstarter to fund a zine with this work and has received a grant to exhibit it in ArtPrize.

Feature Story Holland Ambassador Academy is a 10-week course for city residents to gain insight into the operations of various city departments.

City launches first Holland Ambassador Academy

Holland Ambassador Academy is a 10-week course for city residents to gain insight into the operations of various city departments.

Feature Story Sarah Yore-VanOosterhout, one of the attorneys who callers would speak with when they call. She is also LIA’s founder, managing attorney, and advocacy director.

New programs enhance legal services for asylum seekers and immigrants in West Michigan

Lighthouse Immigrant Advocates launches two communication programs to reduce wait times and enhance legal services for asylum seekers and immigrants in West Michigan.

Feature Story Scott Heerema (left) walks away from a house fire in Park Township.

From campus to community — Gentex facilities director serves

Gentex, itself, has deep community roots, and it encourages the same in its employees. Facilities Director Scott Heerema feels those community connections in his roles in public safety.

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Take a free Dutch Dance lesson as part of Music Moves Us

As part of HSO Presents Music Moves Us, Tulip Time is offering a free Dutch Dance lesson on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 10-10:45 a.m.   

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Take a free Zumba class as part of Music Moves Us

As part of Music Moves Us, Evergreen Commons is opening up a Zumba Gold class to the public on Friday, Aug. 9, from 10:15-11:00 a.m.

Longform Amy Nichols, campus coordinator for the Region IV Area Agency on Aging, at the Campus for Creative Aging's booth in the South Haven Art Fair. She shows an example of the Window to Our World art project for care partners.

Campus for Creative Aging helps Southwest Michigan seniors find purpose after retirement

Since 2017, the Campus for Creative Aging has been offering a variety of innovative opportunities for older adults in Berrien, Van Buren, and Cass counties – and helping younger residents understand and respect their older neighbors.

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Kids can take a free Hawaiian dance lesson as part of Music Moves Us

As part of Music Moves Us, the West Michigan Asian American Association is offering a free Polynesian dance lesson and story on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Holland Farmers Market. Community Action House will teach children how to build their own tropical fruit salad.

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Holland-area man swims across Lake Erie to raise money for swim lesson scholarships

Dr. Bryan Huffman, a Holland-area ophthalmologist, swam across Lake Erie on June 28 as part of a years-long effort to raise scholarship funds for Holland Aquatic Center’s swimming instruction program.

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Tech Council marks decade of growth for West Michigan's tech sector

A decade after its creation, the Tech Council boasts over 70 members and a vision to make Greater Grand Rapids a major tech hub in the Midwest. Gentex, Ottawa County’s biggest employer, is a part of the effort. 

Longform Washtenaw County CMH reception

Connecting to mental health services is as simple as picking up a phone

For Michiganders who are looking for answers on mental health care or are having a mental health crisis, help is only a phone call away.

Feature Story KCAD grads Justin Beitzel and Fernando Ramirez head up Common Object, which helps organizations take steps toward sustainability.

Take a journey into regenerative design with Common Object

KCAD grads Justin Beitzel and Fernando Ramirez share their philosophy of regenerative design in their firm Common Object, which helps organizations take steps toward sustainability.

Feature Story Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Director Brian Love awards Chris Petras with th

Spring Lake historian surprised by trifecta of awards for his work to bring home Purple Hearts

Chris Petras has worked for years to honor World War I veterans who did not receive their rightful Purple Hearts. Earlier this spring, Petras, himself, was honored for his work at a ceremony in Lansing in ways that surprised him.

Feature Story Devin DuMond KCAD, Assistant Professor, Digital Art & Design | Illustration Program

Holland-based educator and artist Devin DuMond paints path for public art

Devin DuMond's dual roles as an artist and KCAD educator underscore their commitment to nurturing talent while leaving a lasting impact on the community through public art.

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How Hunt 2 Heal provides free, accessible opportunity to spend time outdoors

Carson Nyenhuis started Hunt 2 Heal to provide an accessible outdoor experience for others after being outdoors helped him recover from a motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down.

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Muskegon adventure park showcases accessible recreation

Muskegon Luge and Adventure Sports Park, located in Muskegon State Park, offers accessible recreation activities such as zip lining, archery, luge, rock climbing, and more.

Longform Micah 6 is repurposing Webster Elementary, vacant since 2008, into a multi-purpose community center.

Repurposing community assets strengthens communities in Pontiac and Detroit

Michigan communities are repurposing spaces to bring services, create meeting places, and meet the many needs of neighborhood residents.

Feature Story Chef Lucas Grill reopened Public restaurant in downtown Zeeland today.

Beloved Public restaurant comes home to Zeeland

Beloved restaurant Public, which closed its doors three years ago, is back in its old home on Zeeland's Main Avenue. Some things change, some things stay the same.

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Pride Fund awards $15K to support Allegan County groups

The Allegan County Community Foundation has completed its first annual Pride Fund grant cycle, distributing $15,000 to five local organizations.  

Feature Story Children enjoy a fresh and nutritious meal with local produce, inspired by culinary professionals.

How 10 Cents a Meal brings healthy food to more Michigan kids

The Michigan program supplements the food service programs’ budgets for fresh produce, encouraging a greater menu variety and healthier eating habits for kids statewide.