Holland Human Relations director receives Excellence in Equity Award
Holland Human Relations Director Esther Fifelski was surprised with the 2020 Ottawa County Excellence in Equity Award during the fifth annual Ottawa County Diversity Forum.
Holland
Located on the shores of little Lake Macatawa, just off the coast of expansive Lake Michigan, Holland is the epicenter of West Michigan’s Dutch history and culture. Not surprisingly, then, the city is perhaps best known for its annual Tulip Time Festival in May. But there’s much more to the Tulip City than, well, tulips. The city’s downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places and boasts as much retail activity as any urban core in the region. The community is flush with wildly popular waterfront beaches like Tunnel Park and Holland State Park. And Hope College lends the clean, conservative town a bit of youthful spirit.
Father and son team up to create new cycling world record
Jon Ornée has set many world records, individually and with teams that include his brother and friends. When he envisioned setting a risky new world record for a 100-mile bike ride while drafting, he knew he would be safe putting his life in his father’s hands.
Free COVID-19 testing available as cases surge
State and county health departments are offering free coronavirus testing as concerns rise about a second wave of cases in Michigan. Health officials consider testing — along with wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and washing hands — as essential to slowing the spread of the virus.
10 tips to reduce stress for employees working at home
Working at home can be stressful, and many employees are finding the elements initially seen as appealing are contributing to burnout. Fortunately, there are tools available to employees and employers that can help minimize stress and avert burnout.
Jubilee, Habitat break ground on mixed-income neighborhood
Work has begun on Park Vista Place, a joint project to create a mixed-income neighborhood. Organizers Jubilee Ministries and Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity expect the first three homes to be move-in ready by early spring.
Lakeshore Advantage entrepreneurship director takes on international role
Amanda Chocko has been elected to a three-year term on the board of the International Business Innovation Association. The Lakeshore Advantage Director of Entrepreneurship said the appointment gives her a bird’s-eye view of incubators’ and entrepreneurship managers’ best practices.
8 cyclists, 1 Epic Ride, 1 new world record set in Michigan
An eight-man team recently rode 369 miles in under 16 hours, crossing Michigan from south to north. In completing the course, the team set a new World Ultra Cycling cross state record.
Black is Beautiful collaborative takes hold at Lakeshore breweries
West Michigan brewers are modifying the base recipe for the Black is Beautiful stout and making it their own. Proceeds are donated to organizations that raise awareness of racial inequality and promote social justice.
What to do in October? 8 ways to enjoy fall along the lakeshore
October is a prime time to get outdoors and enjoy the Lakeshore’s breathtaking fall foliage. Here are some suggestions for exploring the county’s parks and other special spots. This list includes options for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interest.
Foundation invests in community through stabilization fund grants
The Community Foundation of the Greater Holland/Zeeland Area has raised $1 million in a fund to invest in meeting needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Grants totaling $520,000 have been awarded to local agencies that serve vulnerable populations.
