Duane and Dave Bulkowski pre-COVID-19

How a local organization advocates, seeks to create change and more inclusive spaces

Disability Advocates of Kent County works to assist individuals with various services, connect them with community resources, and help organizations create spaces that are accessible and welcoming. Executive Director, Dave Bulkowski shares how they've responded to COVID-19 and what they hope to see going forward.

Grand Rapids Community College’s Bill Pink and Muskegon Community College’s Dale Nesbary have joined the Lakeshore Advantage board.
Lakeshore Advantage board adds college presidents as part of focus on education

Two college presidents — Grand Rapids Community College’s Bill Pink and Muskegon Community College’s Dale Nesbary — have joined the Lakeshore Advantage board. Their appointment demonstrates the organization’s recognition of how important access to affordable higher education is to the region’s economic growth. 

Conveyor Concepts of Michigan LLC is expanding its Coopersville facility.
Automation industry growth spurs $1.3M expansion at Conveyor Concepts

The designer and manufacturer of innovative material handling systems is investing $1.3 million to help its Coopersville facility keep up with growing demand from customers. The expansion was quickly put in place with help from the city and Lakeshore Advantage.  

This year, GRCC is planning four in-person commencements over two days.
GRCC brings back traditional in-person graduation ceremonies

Grand Rapids Community College graduation last year was a virtual celebration due to the pandemic. This year, GRCC is planning four in-person commencements over two days, limiting guests to ensure the safety of graduates and their families.

Chef Jenna navigates COVID-recovery with creativity, PPP, and community-centered food hugs

Publisher Tommy Allen sits down with local chef, Jenna Arcidiacono, where she reflects on the early days of COVID-19, the power of community, and what she hopes to see as we move forward together.

Photographer shares secrets for taking spectacular sunset photos

Steve Damstra is known for his magnificent sunset images. The Grand Haven resident shares how he started taking photos and what makes a great shot (hint: he likes them to tell a story).

HDL will give out about 1,000 grab-n-go bags.
Holland library provides seed packets to help people get growing

Herrick District Library will distribute 1,000 grab-n-go bags through its seed library this year. Patrons may choose from four seed-pack categories: herbs, fruits/vegetables, greens, and flowers.

Bowerman Blueberries is expanding its original farmers market and bringing a restaurant to downtown Holland later this year.
Bowerman bringing blueberries to downtown Holland

Bowerman Blueberries is bringing its popular blueberry donuts, custard, and other new sweet and savory treats to the former Sandcastle for Kids toy store and AlpenRose cafe on the corner of Eighth Street and Central Avenue in downtown Holland.

While at Grand Valley, Jordan Vanderham developed a mask that makes it easier to breathe while working or playing in below-freezing air.
Entrepreneurial GVSU grad finds success with cold-weather masks

While at Grand Valley, Jordan Vanderham developed a mask that makes it easier to breathe while working or playing in below-freezing air. He pitched the idea in competitions across the Midwest, including events hosted by Grand Rapids-based incubator Start Garden.

Refresh is a collaboration between Community Action House and the First United Methodist Church of Holland and offers a hot shower, meal, and zero judgement.
Refresh celebrates two years with expansion

Refresh is celebrating two years with another expansion. The drop-in program — a partnership between Community Action House and First United Methodist Church of Holland — offers a hot shower, meal, and zero judgment.

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