Zeeland

Charles Beasley, a product development engineer at DISHER, is given latitude to work on passion projects such as his mini mobile home he is designed for homeless people.

Stewardship part of DISHER’s mission to make a positive difference

DISHER, which started as an automotive product design firm, has branched out to engineering, marketing, and business solutions. Investing in the community is important, and the company puts a percentage of its annual profits into stewardship programs.

Andy Rozendaal (left) and John Puttrich (right) comprise the leadership team and are Eighth Day Farm's two full time employees.
Eighth Day Farm makes big impact from its small urban setting

With a philosophy of caring for Earth and the people who inhabit it, Eighth Day Farm provides produce for CSA members and the food insecure in the Holland community from a former mall parking lot. The farm’s influence also includes composting, support for local growers, and connecting the next generation to the food cycle.

Gentex engineer Elliot Busta volunteers weekly at the Holland Middle School greenhouse, teaching students about STEM.
Gentex engineer teaches STEM skills at student greenhouse

Elliot Busta volunteers once a week teaching Holland Middle School students about STEM, providing a positive role model, and leading harvesting tours. He says he learns as much from the students as he teaches them.

The 2020 Promise Scholar class includes 10 hard-working local students who now can realize their dream of a college education.
How 2020 class of Promise Scholarship recipients are pursuing their dreams

The Holland/Zeeland Promise is a renewable scholarship program aimed at giving students the financial boost they need to further their education. The program will allow these 10 hard-working Lakeshore students to attend college in the fall.

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.

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. 

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.

Andrew Boatright is the Zeeland BPW general manager.
Zeeland BPW aims to boost local economy with extra round of Power Dollars

This year, in an effort to promote local spending during the pandemic, the Zeeland BPW is distributing Economic Advantage Power Dollars to all customers who sign up for paperless billing by the Sept. 20 deadline.

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.

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