Lakeshore Advantage reports major economic growth in 2023

New report details substantial business expansion, job creation, and investment in the Lakeshore region.

Social worker Nicole Klomp serves as a reserve member of the Newaygo Police Department.
From social workers on the force to crisis centers, Michigan is improving behavioral health care

Here's a look at three ways Michigan providers are offering new ways to help people experiencing a mental health crisis.

4 rising talents in West Michigan design

Four designers, a mix of students and graduates of KCAD, were recently honored for their work in the field. Hayden Prillwitz, Imane Hocini,  Kyle Sutton, and Ian Wardowski talk about their passion for design and their plans for the future.   

Auto Image is located in Plainwell.
Car accessory customizer flourishes in Plainwell

After launching their custom car accessory business in a Kalamazoo garage, the buddies behind Auto Image relocated to small-town Plainwell, where their business has been growing. This month, the company took part in the Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids.

About one out of five children have a mental, emotional or behavioral health disorder, and only about 20 percent of those children receive care
How Michigan counties are stepping up to meet youth mental health needs

Over the past several years, Michigan's community mental health agencies have been stepping up with a number of initiatives to help fill the gap in mental health services for youth.

Pictured are cast members (left to right) Eliana Hardy, Jocelyn Hines, Da'Kiya Covington, Dwana Thompson, Trina Sandifer, and Brianna Hardy (seated).
Empowering Muskegon Civic Theatre play explores Black women’s relationships with their hair

The world of Black womanhood and self-love is explored in the play “The Glorious World of Crowns, Kinks, & Curls,” which runs at the Muskegon Civic Theatre from Feb. 9-28.

Utility launches donation program to help customers struggling with their bills

One in six people nationwide struggle to pay their utility bills. The Holland BPW has launched a donation program to support customers encountering economic hardship. 

Lakeshore Advantage brings new expertise to board

The economic development group's new board members bring expertise in tribal economic development, furniture manufacturing and automotive manufacturing.

MAX Transit proposes fewer routes, but shorter waits for buses

If you missed the Jan. 25 information session about the proposed changes, there’s still time to share your opinion online through Feb. 9. Under the new plan, the Holland/Zeeland transit service would have fewer routes but shorter waits for buses. 

Penny Shuff works for Mediation Services, which allows her to show her true colors as a good listener and a peacemaker.
Shore Story: A resource for peaceful resolutions

Penny Shuff reflects on her work at Mediation Services, where her natural peacemaker tendencies combine with her skills as a communicator.

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