This photo of a Snowy Owl was taken by local photographer Susie Hughes.

Things to do in April: Hunt for eggs, shop for a bargain, or learn about frogs and birds

Spring has sprung. Among the many events scheduled in April in Allegan, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties, you can check out Easter egg hunts, artisan marketplaces, get bird-watching tips, learn a frog call, attend a spring fling, or visit a museum for free. 

Joel Schoon-Tanis in his Holland studio.
Holland artist Joel Schoon-Tanis cultivates his craft with childlike wonder, whimsy, and wordplay

Though he’s an accomplished artist at 53, Joel Schoon-Tanis seems determined never to act his age. The Holland native takes his career seriously, but he isn’t afraid to include a few misspelled words in his projects.

Paul Sachs
Ottawa County creates board to help protect and conserve groundwater resources

The Board of Commissioners established the groundwater board to help guide Ottawa County’s efforts to effectively manage its groundwater resources, upon which thousands of county residents depend.

The Ottawa County Commission recently adopted the Focus on Agriculture plan.
Ottawa County endorses plan to address challenges faced by farmers

The Ottawa County Commission recently adopted the Focus on Agriculture plan. The four-part framework targets challenges faced by local growers and processors, including succession planning, comprehensive land use vision, economic viability, and agricultural easements.

Jessa Challa is a software engineer and principal community liaison at the Grand Rapids software firm Mallowfields.
IT industry issues call for those with Tech Talent to create gender-diverse workforce

Job seekers and IT professionals are invited to attend IT’s Happening West Michigan. The free virtual networking event on March 25 also offers an opportunity for women to meet with local employers and, perhaps, help close the gender gap in the industry. 

How a strong foundation, entrepreneurial spirit and faith help a local business owner succeed

Born and raised in West Michigan, Jodi van Haren brings a unique perspective to the traditionally male-dominated construction industry. Owner of Advantage Mechanical Refrigeration, van Haren is also a member of the largest Native American tribe east of the Mississippi — the Sault Ste. Marie tribe of the Chippewa Indians, a wife, a mother, grandmother and an active community member. As she reflects on 20 years in business, she shares more about her background and lessons learned along the way.

Cynthia Martinez films Daniel, a student in the TRIO Upward Bound program.
Filmmaker gives a voice to first gen college students

Cynthia Martinez was looking for a way to give back to her hometown. She found that outlet by creating a documentary about Upward Bound’s virtual summer session. The program is designed to enable low-income, first-generation students to thrive and prepare for college.  

A GRCC student in a math class.
GRCC freezes tuition for 2021-22 academic year

The Grand Rapids Community College board has voted unanimously to freeze tuition and all universal fees for the 2021-22 academic year. Officials say the freeze reflects GRCC’s focus on keeping a college education affordable and accessible.

A donation from the Gun Lake Tribe is funding a new mobile vaccination unit in Allegan County.
Gun Lake Tribe donation funds Allegan County mobile vaccination unit

The Gun Lake Tribe’s recent $225,000 distribution to Allegan County is making it easier for vulnerable groups to access the COVID-19 vaccine. After the pandemic, the unit will be used for outreach programs, flu vaccinations, and other public health services.

A Revolution Farms employee at work.
Agribusiness employers recruiting workers for recession-proof industry

During the work fair, job seekers can discuss their skills and qualifications with hiring managers who have immediate hiring needs. The event will take place online from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, March 25.

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