HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Shandra Martinez, managing editor of The Lakeshore talks each week with WHTC morning news anchor Peg McNichol about people and organizations making a difference. Here are some of the highlights of their conversation on Jan. 29, 2021. (Listen to the full podcast.)
A simple act of kindness: Allendale fifth graders spreading kindness, encouragement. Fifth grade students from Allendale Christian School are writing community leaders, encouraging them in their jobs and encouraging them to Choose Kind.
West Michigan companies receive $12M to train the workforce. Businesses use Going Pro Talent Fund grants to “upskill” their employees. This helps companies compete and grow, and prepares workers for in-demand careers.
How does a person with a disability buy a car? Thoughtfully
Purchasing a new vehicle is a big decision for anyone. As a person with a disability, Lucia Rios had decisions to make that went beyond make, model, and color.
Gift of saxophone invigorates spirit of Hope student. The instrument was donated by the widow of a religion professor. Hope College sophomore Houston Patton plans to express his gratitude by playing his very best on the horn.
State program helps farmers practice environmental stewardship. The program helps growers care for their land, water, and the life it supports. Farms can earn certification by implementing environmentally friendly practices.
Recreational resources
Try skiing, hiking and biking at Pigeon Creek Park, 12524 Stanton St., in West Olive. With more than 10 miles of groomed ski trails winding along the Pigeon River, Pigeon Creek Park is a popular cross-country ski destination for classic and skate skiing. Ski and snowshoe rentals are available, and 3 miles of ski trails, as well as a sledding hill, are illuminated for night use. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, check out the website for rental and lodge information, as well as ski conditions. Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission recently voted to extend winter park hours for hikers and bikers – by 2 hours – to 10 p.m. “We are so pleased to be able to make this adjustment at Pigeon Creek Park, especially during these stressful times,” says Jason Shamblin, Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Director. “By the time many of us finish with our workday, myself included, it’s too dark to get out for a hike. Between turning on the trail lights and extending our operating hours, we hope to help more individuals and families spend more time outside.”
Go ice skating Ice skating at Elm Street Park & Ice Rink, 221 S. Elm St., in Zeeland. Now that winter is in full swing, it’s time to get out and enjoy the weather. The Elm Street Park & Ice Rink in downtown Zeeland is the perfect place to practice your figure 8s. Don’t have skates? You can rent them from the Howard Miller Library (youth size 9 through adult size 9); check out feelthezeel.com for details.
These are some of the ideas in Sally Laukitis’ monthly column about ways to explore the Lakeshore: Things to do in January: Find post-holiday bargains or enjoy the ice and snow.





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