Herrick District Library is hosting a free program about census records.

‘Hopping Through History’ makes sense of census, offers tips on genealogical research

Why is the census important? Find out by joining “Hopping Through History — Making Sense of the Census.” The virtual Herrick District Library program also will examine how participants can use census data in researching their family history.

Brian Nicholson, MiCAL program director for Oakland County-based crisis services agency Common Ground, takes a call for the Michigan Crisis and Access Line (MiCAL).
New mental health crisis line to roll out across Michigan

The new service is now available in Oakland County and Michigan's Upper Peninsula – and it's just the first step of a larger plan to roll out improved mental health crisis services across the state.

The Holland Symphony Orchestra performs its Pops at the Pier event every year in a celebration of summer fun.
HSO returns with pops tribute to Louis Armstrong

The Holland Symphony Orchestra will hold its first concert in two years with a pops tribute to Louis Armstrong. The outdoor concert will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 29.

Lakeshore storyteller Mike Lozon authored 12 historical books over his career.
A tribute to Mike Lozon: The Lakeshore’s storyteller

Many are mourning the passing of journalist, photographer and author Mike Lozon, one of The Lakeshore’s first contributors. Representatives of the organizations he supported are sharing what made his work so special for our community.   

The “new” MLK Neighborhood Association – Developing neighborhood block champions

After reemerging in 2020, the Martin Luther King (MLK) Neighborhood Association has continued to strive and move forward through the unexpected COVID-19 pandemic with the goal to continue caring for one other and advocating for the community. Even through the challenges, the faithful few have come together virtually, working on their mission to continue enhancing the overall quality of life in the neighborhood and building on the rich history that has become a known part of the community for over 40 years.

Summer enrollment at Grand Rapids Community College is up 7.1% from a year ago.
State programs play a role in GRCC’s 7.1% increase in summer enrollment

Grand Rapids Community College, which recently kicked off its second summer semester, reports enrollment this season is up 7.1% over 2021 and 5.9% from before the pandemic. The increase is attributed in part to students taking advantage of state programs that help with tuition costs.

Paige Irene Bruns has received accolades from more than a dozen film festivals for her short film, “Anchor."
West Michigan native’s short film, ‘Anchor,’ receives dozens of award nominations, wins

Thanks to her passion for storytelling, Paige Irene Bruns has received accolades from more than a dozen film festivals for her short film, “Anchor,” which she wrote and directed while in college. After graduation, she returned to West Michigan to launch her independent production company, Affinity Insight Pictures.

Eastern Market in Detroit.
How do you feed a state in crisis? Michigan Food Security Council report plans ahead

A recent report by the state's new Food Security Council examines response to food security issues during COVID-19 and how we can learn from it in the long term.

The Beer City Open is putting West Michigan on the map for pickleball.
Beer City Open puts West Michigan on the map for pickleball

The Beer City Open, co-founded by Grand Rapids attorney and Grand Haven resident Andrea Koop, is putting West Michigan on the map for pickleball. The tournament attracts hundreds of players, both amateurs and professionals, each year. This year’s prizes top $30,000.

Julie Parker is president of Great Lakes Commercial Finance.
Nonprofit development lender expands regional impact

Grandville-based economic development foundation has unveiled its new name — Great Lakes Commercial Finance — as well as an updated logo and website. The company, with 40 years of service, has worked with hundreds of lenders to help thousands of Michigan small businesses secure the financing they need.

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