Grand Haven

Located on the sugar sand shores of Lake Michigan, at the mouth of the Grand River, Grand Haven is an active resort town and the epicenter of West Michigan's Water Wonderland. Grand Haven State Park is regularly rated one of the nation's top beaches. And the city features more than 100 miles of bike trail, 2 Great Lakes lighthouses, a busy waterfront boardwalk, and an extensive fleet of charter fishing boats. The city has felt the pain of Michigan's deindustrialization. But the community also is acting aggressively to reinvest in the urban core, leverage traditional assets such as a distinct quality of life, and position itself to compete in the 21st century. With the Big Lake on the front doorstep, it's hard to imagine anything but success.   

New bankruptcy law could be lifeline for small businesses

Chapter 11 reorganization, which requires up-front cash and can take years to complete, hasn’t been a viable option for small businesses. In response, Congress passed the Subchapter V Act in 2019.

Chris Riker is Vice President of Advancement and Donor Services at the GHACF.
Community’s generosity takes COVID-19 response fund beyond goal

Thanks to generous community support, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation exceeded its $600,000 fundraising goal, allowing the organization to continue aiding community relief and recovery in response to COVID-19.  

Andrew Boyd and Jeremy Miller outside the Grand Haven Armory.
Aldea Coffee is building community, one cup at a time

Aldea Coffee was started as a nonprofit to provide micro loans for farmers in Honduras. Now, with retail locations in Grand Haven and Muskegon, it’s creating a culture of partnership and fairness for growers, vendors, employees, and customers.

Spring Grove park is wheelchair accessible.
What to do in August? 8 ways to explore your Lakeshore backyard

August is a prime time to enjoy the Lakeshore’s enchanting summers. This is a great month to get outside and explore Ottawa county’s treasures. Tourism expert Sally Laukitis offers up a list that includes options for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or interest.

Violet and Quinn Tunison were excited to back at the Howard Miller Public Library in Zeeland.
Libraries’ reopening brings people back to ‘community living room’

Nearly all of the libraries across Ottawa County have reopened with new safety precautions in place. Reporter Heidi Tunison tried out the libraries with her two young ones in tow. She explains how the library experience has changed during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Kyle A. Moroney with her family during last year's Coast Guard Festival.
A spirited salute to the 2020 Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival that never was

With this year's Coast Guard Festival canceled because of COVID-19, longtime Grand Haven resident Kyle A. Moroney explains what's so special about the 10-day community celebration. And she shares photos from her favorite moments. 

LEDA Executive Director Gloria Lara introduces Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist at the Summit.
LEDA’s 1st virtual conference brings together leaders for day of inclusion education

In an age when racial inequity has been thrust to the forefront, the Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance’s annual summit on race and inclusion drew nearly 800 people. Among the virtual event's attendees were representatives from cities, public schools, police departments, public health departments, corporations, nonprofits, and universities.

Recent high school grad Gezelle Kingdom Grier is ready to cast a ballot in her first election by mail
Mail-in ballots attractive to first-time voters

Recent high school grad Gezelle Kingdom Grier is ready to cast a ballot by mail in her first election. “I was looking forward to voting in person but I think this will be much easier," she says. 

A new program is providing $60 million in coronavirus relief funds to prevent homelessness statewide by paying back rent to landlords.
Renters avoid eviction, landlords get back rent with new state program

The Michigan Eviction Diversion Program is providing $60 million in coronavirus relief funds to prevent homelessness statewide by paying back rent to landlords. “It’s a win for everybody,” says Good Samaritan Ministries Executive Director Drew Peirce. 

Theresa Glass only recently recognized the role her childhood played in her health issues as an adult .
Thrive shines light on childhood trauma’s effects on adults

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) such as abuse, neglect, or a home with mental illness, domestic violence, or the loss of a parent can affect people long into adulthood in ways that can manifest as both mental and physical maladies.

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