Stories

Feature Story Nate Hoffman (right) and Norm Kapla (center) welcome guests onto an elevator at the J.H. Campbell Complex Unit 3 power generating station at Port Sheldon Township. Two hundred and fifty people registered rare public tour of the facility.

Bidding farewell to iconic J.H. Campbell power plant

Consumers Energy will shut down its last coal-fired electrical generators in the Campbell Complex by May 31, 2025. Demolition of the plant, including its iconic smokestacks, could begin as early as 2026.

Feature Story Holland Hospital Behavioral Health Services will expand its inpatient unit thanks to a $3 million grant through the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) to meet the demand for mental health treatment.

$3M grant allows Holland Hospital to add more psychiatric beds

The expansion will increase access to critical mental health care for an additional 100 patients annually while keeping them close to home.

Feature Story Della Fetzer at TEDxMacatawa 2023.

TEDxMacatawa returns with ‘local voices sharing ideas that matter’

TEDxMacatawa 2024 will take place Oct. 8. Register by Oct. 2 to attend this half-day conference of ideas.

Feature Story Anyone can observe Joel Schoon-Tanis painting in the Groundworks space at the main library and ask questions about his process — 6-8 p.m. Oct. 1 and 10 a.m.-noon Oct. 9., 16, 22, Nov. 6, 7, 13, and 20.

Library announces Joel Schoon-Tanis as first Maker in Residence

Groundworks at Herrick District Library's main library is a space to discover both technology and creativity and this fall it is hosting its first Maker in Residence, well-known local artist Joel Schoon-Tanis.

Feature Story  The Vous Cafe, driven by owner Kaja Thornton, offers training and employment opportunities for staff with and without disabilities.

Vous Cafe brings Cajun flavor to Grand Haven's Momentum Center

The Vous Cafe, driven by owner Kaja Thornton, offers training and employment opportunities for staff with and without disabilities.

Feature Story Jennifer Evans

Meet Jennifer Evans, Out on the Lakeshore’s new leader

Jennifer Evans steps in as executive director of Out on the Lakeshore, leading the organization’s LGBTQ+ advocacy efforts.

Feature Story Communities across the Lakeshore are getting ready for Halloween, including many opportunities for trick-or-treating. A list of events — slated from Friday, Oct. 25, to Thursday, Oct. 31 — planned across West Michigan is at the bottom of thi

October things to do: Goose Fest, music, history, theater, pumpkins, Day of the Dead, and Halloween

Exhibitions, musical programs, comedy, a film festival, fall-themed events, a hike, and a couple of cemetery tours top this month’s jam-packed list of things to do along the Lakeshore.

Feature Story Disability Network West Michigan (DNWM) is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a block party.

Disability Network West Michigan marks 25 years of advocacy and service

DNWM is celebrating the milestone with a block party outside its Muskegon offices on Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature food, music, and a tour of its facility.

Feature Story Paws With A Cause embarks on a new chapter with a $9.5 million renovation of its Wayland headquarters to expand custom-trained assistance dog services.

Paws With A Cause’s $9.5M facility renovation to expand services

Paws With A Cause embarks on a new chapter with a $9.5 million renovation of its Wayland headquarters to expand custom-trained assistance dog services.

Feature Story Pumpkin painting will be one of the many free activities available at the Harvest Festival at Benjamin's Hope this weekend.

Benjamin's Hope free Harvest Festival offers fun for people of all abilities

The annual Harvest Festival at Benjamin's Hope invites members of the community of all abilities to enjoy the 52-acre farm this weekend with hayrides, music, food, games and more. The free event is 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28.

Feature Story The Muskegon County Airport is slated for a major renovation and modernization of the passenger terminal this year.

Muskegon County Airport marks new era of air service

Muskegon County Airport says its new carrier, Denver Air Connection, will provide improved reliability and service. It will replace Southern Airways Express.

Feature Story Rachel Gorman, chief operating officer of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, will succeed Cindy Larsen as president.

Rachel Gorman steps up into new role with Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber

Rachel Gorman, chief operating officer of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, will succeed Cindy Larsen as president on Oct. 4 after years of preparation.

Feature Story A river view of the City of Allegan's downtown. (City of Allegan)

City of Allegan selected for CEDAM fellow

A CEDAM fellow will support Allegan’s economic development, assist with planning updates, and promote equity and community growth.  

Feature Story Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF) cut the ribbon at its new location last month.

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation moves into new home in historic setting

The long-awaited new home of Grand Haven Area Community Foundation is in a historic setting with more space to work collaboratively with its partners.

Feature Story Beatrice Salgado, a preschool teacher at the Early Learning Center in Grand Rapids, was honored in the childcare category in 2023.

Front-line employees across West Michigan to be recognized

West Michigan Works! is accepting nominations through Sept. 30 for its 2024 Bev Drake Essential Service Awards. The awards recognize individuals who go above and beyond in a service industry position.

Feature Story A $200,000 grant for the expansion of the Rosy Mound Natural Area is among six grants the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation recently awarded.

Foundation grants supports Rosy Mound expansion

A $200,000 grant for the expansion of the Rosy Mound Natural Area is among six grants the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation recently awarded.

Feature Story Hope’s athletes will also have access to a new orthopedic center opening in November.

Holland Hospital and Hope College partner to elevate athletic care

Holland Hospital and Hope College athletics have a new partnership to provide comprehensive athletic training and physical therapy services for all Hope athletes.

Feature Story The Hackley Castle Inn and Suites is scheduled to open its doors in the fall of 2025.

Muskegon landmark to become boutique hotel

The historic Hackley Administration Building will undergo a transformation into a one-of-a-kind 45-room boutique hotel, aptly named the Hackley Castle Inn and Suites.

Longform A rendering of the future Fresh! by Gleaners.

Fresh food pantry set to open near Detroit, building upon other innovative Michigan models

Gleaners Community Food Bank has broken ground on Fresh! by Gleaners, an innovative concept that will make free, fresh food available to people living in Wayne and Macomb counties.

Feature Story Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) training for staff at Muskegon Luge and Adventure Sports Park. Pictured from left to right: Jeff VanDyke and Brad Hastings.

Accessibility champion recognized for impact in Muskegon community

Brad Hastings, advocacy and outreach coordinator at Disability Network West Michigan, is honored with Muskegon’s Future 15 Award for his work in disability advocacy and improving community accessibility.