Stories

Feature Story pillows

How to survive pillow fights when marriage meets home décor

Myron Kukla recounts the escalating “pillow fight” with his wife–not swinging pillows, but battling their multiplying presence.  

Feature Story SMALL-Old-Heart

Old Heart: A Dutch American story told from the lakeshore

A drama filmed in West Michigan about wartime love, aging, and resilience, Old Heart connects Dutch history to local storytelling.

Feature Story Small-Tara

Tara McCrackin honored with inaugural ICON Award for industry leadership

KCAD President Tara McCrackin receives IIDA Michigan’s first ICON Award for her leadership, advocacy, and dedication to interior design.  

Feature Story Funds from the 2020 EPA grant helped support site assessment at Terra Station, a 12-building, mixed-use complex currently under construction in Hudsonville.

EPA grant helps Ottawa County turn contaminated sites into community assets

Federal funds will support environmental assessments to prepare contaminated properties for redevelopment, spurring investment and protecting local waterways.

Feature Story The Ottawa Townhomes project is the third collaboration between the two organizations.

Jubilee, Habitat Partnership expands affordable housing in Holland with new project

Jubilee Ministries and Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity launch the 11-unit Ottawa Townhomes project, continuing their partnership to increase homeownership in Holland.

Feature Story Julian-1

From local impact to global vision: My LAUP chapter ends, but the mission continues

In this Shore Story, Julian Lugo-Castañeda shares the impact LAUP has had on his life and what he accomplished during his three years with the organization as a youth leader.

Feature Story Kelly Wandel

Lakeshore Advantage hires leader for workplace talent development

Kelly Wandel leads Lakeshore Advantage’s new effort to attract and retain young talent in response to West Michigan’s workforce needs.

Feature Story veterans

Veterans in St. Clair County can rely on community mental health

St. Clair County Community Mental Health (St. Clair County CMH) continues to meet veterans’ mental health care needs. A certified community behavioral health clinic (CCBHC), St. Clair County CMH offers veterans a wide range of services regardless of their ability to pay or residency. 

Feature Story Darla Maltby has worked with student, DJ Betzner, for over eight years.

Retiring educator reflects on 30 years of meaningful work

After 30 years in special education, a dedicated paraprofessional shares how patience, laughter, and community shaped her unexpected career.

Feature Story  Dan Broersma

Holland author shares simple, real-life guide to sustainability success

Dan Broersma’s new book offers easy, practical steps for anyone, from businesses to individuals, looking to make a sustainable impact.

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New high school dental program quickly fills workforce gaps

Walker Career Center trains teens for dental careers, tackling workforce shortages and helping underserved students access well-paying, high-demand health care jobs.

Feature Story City of GR's Parks Director David Marquordt (in red shorts) enjoys meeting folks in our parks.

Adapting outdoor recreation in West Michigan amidst shifting seasons and climate change

As winters become shorter and seasons increasingly erratic, outdoor recreation in West Michigan is experiencing significant changes. Local leaders are exploring innovative methods to maintain year-round connections to nature through the revitalization of ski resorts, the enhancement of trail systems, and the introduction of new warm-weather activities.

Feature Story  The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan (HCWM) has acquired the Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative.

Hispanic Center expands Lakeshore reach through Tri-Cities Puentes acquisition

A merger brings vital programs under one roof, strengthening support and cultural connections for Hispanic communities across West Michigan.

Longform Pharmacists handle cancer medications at the cancer drug repository at the Trinity Health Reichert Medical Center in Superior Township.

Ann Arbor nonprofit and Sault Tribe of Chippewa partner to redistribute unused cancer drugs for free

Last year the nonprofit YesRx received a grant to work with the tribe over a two-year period, expanding access to expensive drugs that would otherwise go to waste.

Feature Story Saugatuck Township unveiled its first public artwork, “Canary in a Coal Mine,” an 11-foot sculpture.

Saugatuck Township installs first public art with environmental message

A new sculpture at the Blue Star roundabout sparks conversation about environmental responsibility and marks a first for the township.

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West Coast’s Community Impact Day expands to unite 3K volunteers across Michigan

Michigan's first statewide Community Impact Day mobilized thousands across 191 sites, showcasing the power of collaboration and local volunteerism.

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Firm behind West Michigan landmarks celebrates 80 years with focus on future growth

West Michigan firm EV Construction marks 80th anniversary with expanded projects, people-centered culture, and national growth in health care and commercial sectors.

Feature Story Kat Layton

Library social worker connects patrons with resources and a listening ear

Ypsilanti District Library’s social worker bridges the gap between patrons and local resources they need — everything from housing support to simply listening without judgment.   

Feature Story Small-Zeeland-Zoom

June things to do: Pride events, Miss Michigan, Juneteenth, a Julia Child exhibit, and Father’s Day

June brings Father’s Day, Miss Michigan, Juneteenth, a Julia Child exhibit, movies, music, summer camps, 5Ks, and theater. Libraries have a lot of free activities, too.  

Feature Story ​​Mary Medendorp

Weatherization program helps seniors stay safe and warm

​​Mary Medendorp, 91, received home upgrades through Allegan County’s Community Action Agency weatherization program, improving energy efficiency and lowering utility costs.