The Epic Swim Team: Todd Suttor, Jon Ornée, Jeremy Sall, Nick Hobson, Dave Ornée, and Matt Smith

How 6 friends made ‘Epic Swim’ across Lake Michigan

After months of planning and training, six West Michigan men recently took a swim — across the Big Lake. The relay team made the almost 55-mile journey in just under 21 hours, setting a new record. 

The Hope College campus in downtown Holland.
Hope seeks proposals for campus-city partnerships

The college is soliciting proposals for the “There’s No Place Like Home” initiative. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 will be awarded to projects focused on public health, economics, and intergroup relations.

Spring Lake DDA Director Angela Stanford-Butler, Grand Haven Main Street Executive Director Jeremy Swiftney and Ferrysburg Mayor Rebecca Hopp wear their "love of community" masks.
Communities reframe mask debate into message of unity

It’s no secret opposing opinions abound when it comes to wearing masks in public. Bearing that in mind, the city of Grand Haven’s new mask campaign promotes caring for the community — and keeping its businesses open — instead of focusing on public health.

Mike Ramirez is who is serving as the Restart Grant Board Chair for the Lakeshore Advantage grant administration process.
Transparency and inclusiveness drive Restart Grant award process

Lakeshore Advantage received almost 900 applications for Michigan Small Business Restart Grants. The committee allocating $3.5 million to businesses and nonprofits in Ottawa and Allegan counties is sharing the award process to ensure transparency. 

Fannie Johnson.
Fresh Conversations program helps Detroit seniors change dietary and fitness habits for the better

The Methodist Children's Home Society runs Fresh Conversations program sessions at community centers and other sites in Detroit, with the goal of helping seniors change their diet and fitness routines to curtail chronic diseases and promote healthy aging. 

Chara Bouma-Prediger is the Holland Farmers Market's new Food Navigator.
Farmers Market adds bilingual Food Navigator to assist shoppers

Ottawa Food and the Holland Farmers Market are offering another service to ensure all county residents have access to fresh, healthy food. Food Navigator Chara Bouma-Prediger will help patrons build healthy eating habits, make the most of SNAP benefits, and build relationships with their farmers.

Gentex interns Collin Mitchell and Ciana Witherell took part in the Lakeshore Advantage event.
Lakeshore Advantage helps interns picture their future in West Michigan

After a summer spent gaining hands-on work experience, Gentex interns were celebrated for their contributions. The gathering was also designed to showcase what the region has to offer them as a place to live, work and play.

#SaveOurStages campaign demands federal help for independent music venues

Two congressional acts up for consideration in Washington DC may be the only hope for independent music venues to survive until the pandemic subsides and live concerts can again take place.

The 2019 Ability Award recipient Lori Hastings, who is seated in a wheelchair, is pictured with the other award nominees.
Disability Network looking for individuals who champion inclusion

Disability Network/Lakeshore has been working for more than 25 years to increase accessibility to all members of the community. Its annual Ability Award recognizes an Ottawa/Allegan County individual who promotes a spirit of inclusion.

The 'Epic Swim' team practices a night swim on Lake Michigan. Pictured from left to right are Nick Hobson, Todd Suttor, Matt Smith, Jon Ornée and Jeremy Sall. (Missing from the photo is team member Dave Ornée.)
6 friends prepare for 60-mile ‘Epic Swim’ across Lake Michigan

The idea of swimming across Lake Michigan has been floating around in one ultra-endurance challenge competitor’s mind for years. He and five other athletes are preparing to take the plunge this week. 

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