The Hollander - Home of citizen journalists

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Holland, MI / Sunset Tunnel Park

Launching March 2025.

The Hollander is more than just a news platform—it’s a home for citizen journalism, a place where the stories of West Michigan come to life through the voices of those who know it best. Rooted in the values that have made this region a blessing, we celebrate the people, places, and traditions that make our communities strong while embracing the conversations that shape our future. From local history to cultural moments, from small-town charm to the pressing issues of today, The Hollander is here to inform, uplift, and connect. This is your platform. Your stories. Your West Michigan.

All Stories

Yeah, You're Gonna Want to Take the Back Way to the New Culver's

I’m sure we are all ecstatic about the brand new Culver’s in town—planted right on the already busy corner of 16th Street and Hoover Boulevard near US 31—and while the butter burgers and custard are irresistible as ever, so is the traffic… just not in a good way.

Last Chance for Fresh Blueberries This Season!

Blueberry season is still in full bloom for a couple of weeks in West Michigan, and local farmers are encouraging the community to support American made. This blueberry farm has so much to offer and will not disappoint on fulfilling your limitless blueberry needs.

No Rush: A Morning at Kin Coffee

I wandered into Kin Coffee for the first time and found not just a café, but a gentle kind of beautiful.

Family Friendly Events—August

Even while the summer months are dwindling, there is still so much happening. It’s time to soak up the last few days of sun before the kiddos head back to school. Take a look at these must-attend events for the month of August.

Is District 4 Candidate Sean McCann Coming for Your Guns?

Michigan Senator Sean McCann is the latest Democrat to join the 2026 effort to unseat Republican Bill Huizenga. It’s a gunfight at the O.K. Corral where one cowboy might be a little too caught up in regulating what’s in everybody’s holster.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Dog Days in Holland

From pup cups on the patio to off-the-leash beach strolls, the lakeshore is proving itself to be a paradise for dogs and their humans alike. Whether you’re sniffing out the best dog-friendly coffee shops or planning a beach day with your furry companion, here is your guide to making the most of the dog days—Holland style.

Luxe43 Coming to Downtown Holland

Elevate your luxury experience. A contemporary men’s and women’s collective is under construction.

The Lost Art of Porch Sitting

There was a time—not too long ago—when a front porch wasn’t just a structural representation of a house’s charm or curb appeal. It was a social anchor. A place of openness, of connection, of being in the neighborhood rather than merely residing next to others. It offered a moment of stillness where nothing in particular happened—on purpose.

GVSU Students Get Involved in Planning Allendale’s Potential Future Downtown

Allendale Township has begun conversation about a potential future downtown development—with community input and involvement in planning being among the next steps. This pass-through community may become a town where people want to spend more time.

Competing at the Ottawa County Fair

With thirteen years of 4-H experience showing sheep, goats, cats, and rabbits, our high school citizen journalist, Audrey Mitchell, shares what it takes to prepare for the county fair.

Audrey Mitchell

Why Local Influencers Matter More Than Ever

We live in a culture driven by big names and global trends that foster a sense of ubiquitous conformity and mainstream sameness. It’s a boring reality that lacks authenticity and genuineness. There is an outreach disconnect. This is perhaps the reason as to why local voices are gaining traction—those who shape our neighborhoods, celebrate our individuality, and inject fresh energy into our everyday lives. Let’s take a look at local influencers who are using their platforms to do just that.

What Will Lard Do For Me?

By now you've heard of tallow, which has made quite a comback—not only in the kitchen but also in skin care products. But tallow’s not the only animal fat in town, and not necessarily the best. Meet lard, tallow’s less famous cousin.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Ice Cream You Can Eat Every Day

Protein Pints, a healthy, energy-packed twist on a favorite sweet, was founded by local, entrepreneurial college grads. One of the co-founders shares the backstory to their success.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Canada Is Wrecking Our Summer: Our Next War Might Be Fought Over Sunshine

Sunlight should pour in through our windows, but doesn’t. The air feels heavy even on breezy days. It’s disorienting. And it’s slowly unraveling everything we associate with summer.

The Top 5 Lakeside Dining Experiences Near Holland

As the warm summer air settles in, it’s time we swap air-conditioned booths for wicker chairs on the patio, where the lakeshore breeze does all the cooling you need. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset dinner, a casual dockside burger, or a refreshing drink with a little umbrella, these five lakeside spots will offer some of the best local dining experiences—with a view.

What Should Schools Do When Bonds Fail?

Taxes are high. As a result, more and more residents are choosing not to support school bond proposals, especially those that seem to ask for the moon.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Why Love Island Has Everyone Talking This Summer—And What That Says About Us

This summer, you don’t need a passport or a beachside resort to immerse yourself in the heat. Just turn on your television and tune into Love Island, the reality show that’s heating up everyone’s screens. But behind the bikinis and bombshells lies a deeper question: What are we really consuming when we treat real people’s emotions (genuine or staged) as entertainment? And what does that say about us?

We Can't Let Howard Miller Die

They gave up just before it came back. As America rediscovers heirloom craft, one of its great clockmakers closes shop. But is it too soon to quit?

Foxtail Coffee Opens Drive-Thru Location in Grandville

Foxtail is opening its fifth location in West Michigan, while local favorite Wildroast continues to focus on the sit-down coffee experience. We sat down with Zach, founder of Wildroast, to talk about Grandville’s growth, why he sold his drive-thru to Foxtail, and what makes a strong community.

Farming with Purpose

In an instant, life can change. And for others, life can feel limited from the beginning. There’s a man in Holland, Michigan, who has been there. And he believes unshakably that God brought him through the things he did and blessed him the way he has so that he can help others.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Everyone’s Dressed for Tee Time, but No One’s Playing

From tennis skirts, piped-collared shirts, and classic crewneck sweaters—preppy sport staples have begun to dominate the athleisure scene.

GVSU hasn’t been the same since they took down the wrecking ball.

I still think about that wrecking ball. Not the Miley Cyrus one, though that’s part of the story. I’m talking about the real one — the full-sized steel wrecking ball that used to swing proudly at the center of Grand Valley State University’s Allendale campus. It hung like a monument to freedom. Or foolishness. Or both. And it was perfect.

Dwelling Place Expands Affordable Housing Near Downtown Holland

Starting this fall, a new housing initiative proposed by Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids is set to bring over fifty units of affordable housing to Downtown Holland. The plan, developed in collaboration with Community Action House and Hope Church, responds directly to a recent housing needs assessment projecting an urgent demand for low-income housing.

The Hooligans Flight Team—Saluting the Military from a Thousand Feet Up

Find out what the Hooligans do, why they do it and what it takes to be part of the team.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Holland's Historic Church Wants to Add Solar Panels

As with any alteration concerning preserved buildings, Hope Church's request needed to go before the Holland Historic District Commission.

Krista Yetzke⁩

A New Home for Heroes: Ottawa County Breaks Ground on First-Ever Veterans Services Facility

After years of planning, negotiation, and advocacy, veterans in one of Michigan’s fastest-growing counties finally have a place to call their own.

Family Friendly Events—July

If you're looking for something to do as the summer ramps up, scroll through our list of family friendly events happening in West Michigan during the month of July.

Lake Michigan Float Club: Where Girlhood, Sunshine, and Social Connection Drift Together

If you stumble upon a colorful cluster of floats drifting near the shoreline, you may have just discovered the Lake Michigan Float Club—a local sensation drawing a growing community of young women eager to unwind, connect, and embrace summer’s simple joys. Here’s how it all began.

Zeeland Planning Commission Grants Preliminary Approval of Mead-Johnson Rezoning

This past Wednesday, familiar faces returned to the Howard Miller Community Center in Zeeland to witness the fate of residential parcels. Mead-Johnson had requested to rezone the parcels in order to make way for its modernization, expansion plan.

Red, White, and Holland: Celebrate the Fourth of July on the Lakeshore

For most Michiganders, the Fourth of July means this: grabbing an ice cold drink, embarking on a day spent near the water, and soaking up the sun until dusk settles in for fireworks. And where better to spend the holiday than in Holland—the ideal setting perfectly tailored to complement your patriotic celebrations.

Milk Fresh from the Cow—Good for the Gut, Great for the Soul

You may want to rethink your vitamin supplements and lactose intolerance. Real milk is naturally full of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes and is more easily digested than its pasteurized counterpart. Sadly, some have been made to believe it’s harmful.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Tesla Club Lights up Muskegon Skies

Electric vehicles, drone technology, and veteran advocacy took center stage in Muskegon as the Tesla Owners Club of Michigan hosted its most impactful summer meetup yet.

Tales of Love: Felt Mansion’s Rise as a Photo Hotspot

Not all mansions are built equal. While the lakeshore of West Michigan boasts plenty of grand homes, one estate stands apart—not just for its size, but for its story. Just south of Holland, the historic Felt Mansion offers luxury greater than beauty itself; it offers a timeless tale of love carved within its brick exterior.

Bulls, Broncs, and Barrels to Close Out This Year’s Berlin Fair

The Berlin Fair hosts one of the few annual rodeos still offered in Michigan. It’s wild. It’s action-packed. It’s this weekend, and you don’t want to miss it.

Krista Yetzke⁩

The Same Great Place, Now Ace

Maneuvering a name change. One local hardware store promises to continue a father's legacy, all while offering its community the same great service they've grown to love.

Local Artists Transform Elm Street in Zeeland with Temporary Chalk Exhibits

Last week, local artists gathered on Elm Street in Zeeland, Michigan, to showcase their shared talent through the vibrant medium of chalk art.

Out with the Old, in with the Luxe

Bombshell Salon & Spa celebrates 11 years in business with a major glow up. From 2,000–5,000 square feet, size is just the beginning of what this salon now has to offer. You will just have to see it to believe it.

Trump Beheading Prop at Holland NO KINGS Protest

Look closer—the Holland woman’s “Off with his head” sign wasn’t just rhetoric. She waved a severed head on a stick high above the crowd. We attended the NO KINGS rally to see for ourselves and ask questions.

Progress vs Principle: Zeeland Grapples with Mead-Johnson “Modernization” Plan

This past Thursday, passionate residents, staff members, and local stakeholders packed the Howard Miller Community Center in Zeeland to discuss a rezoning application submitted by Reckitt’s Mead-Johnson manufacturing facility.

Coopersville, Grand Haven, Holland, Spring Lake, & West Ottawa—Public School Board Meetings Tonight

CPS is meeting on taxes and budgets; GHAPS will be looking at assessment scores, taxes, and the budget; and HPS, SLPS, and WOPS are meeting on their budget.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Sneak Peek into the Berlin Fair, Days Before the Opening

Painstaking effort goes into prepping for the Berlin Fair. And with good reason. Some call it the highlight of their summer.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Family Friendly Events—June

Looking for something to do as a family? Scroll through our list of family friendly events happening in West Michigan for the month of June.

Dialing in the Perfect Crawl: Father and Son RC Tinkering

RC crawlers have taken the place of Pinewood Derby. Grand Rapids is home to the largest indoor RC crawler course in the state, offering enthusiasts a thrilling and challenging terrain to test their rigs.

Allendale, Jenison, & Zeeland—Public School Board Meetings Tonight

APS is meeting on taxation, JPS will be looking to include abstinence in the Sex Ed curriculum, and ZPS is meeting on the budget.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Churches Step In to Build Community for Adults With Disabilities

As housing challenges grow for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, one West Michigan community is testing a new model rooted in faith and local partnership. On a rainy May evening, that vision took center stage at a launch event for Agora Flats. Neighbors, pastors, and families gathered to mark the beginning of something they hope will last.

Red Light—Proven Health Therapy or Just a Fad?

I had never heard of Red Light Therapy until a recent surge of ads caught my attention. And as a perpetual seeker of alternative healthcare, I just had to check it out.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Local Pianist Chooses Unconventional Career

Josiah Jackson is a gifted pianist who wanted to turn his gift into a career. Knowing he didn’t want a life on the road, his options seemed limited. That was until he decided to become a doctor—The Piano Doctor.

Covid 19 Five Years Later: A Wake-Up Call We Can’t Afford to Ignore

Five years ago, America surrendered its freedoms in the name of safety. We closed schools, taped off playgrounds, and told neighbors to stay six feet apart—all to stop a virus we barely understood.

Letters from a Hollander

World-Class Historian David Barton Visits West Michigan

Undoubtedly one of the most prolific ambassadors of true American history, David Barton of WallBuilders addressed audiences for multiple services at ResLife Church in Grandville this past Sunday, May 25, 2025. West Michigan was blessed by the inspirational message of hope and encouragement he brought to us from our nation’s past.

Kelsea Studebaker

Taxes Too High? Show Up at the Polls

The amount homeowners pay in taxes to the schools is consistently decided by a small number of people—sometimes fewer than 100 people in a community. Who are these select few with the power to raise and lower your taxes? Are they elected officials? Wealthy elite? Higher-ups in the world of education? Nope. They are registered voters. And you could be one of them.

Krista Yetzke⁩

J.H. Campbell Plant Remains Operational After U.S. Department of Energy Issues Emergency Order

Local, state, and federal officials are concerned Michigan will see energy shortages this summer, and want to prevent the demolition of a coal-fired power plant, in case it is needed to provide energy to the grid.

Memorial Day—A Veteran’s Reflection

The call of duty of an American soldier.

You're Invited: May 28 Celebration to Launch Agora Flats in Holland Township

Churches and neighbors will gather in a Holland Township parking lot to celebrate the future site of Agora Flats—a faith-based housing community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

DJ’s Pizza—Best Pie in the Ville

Rainy night? Pizza fix. DJ’s in Hudsonville delivers bold flavor, hometown charm, and a rooftop expansion on the horizon—making it a must-visit slice stop.

Title IX, Part 2—Does Your School Still Allow Boys in Girls' Bathrooms?

In response to our previous article on Title IX, a question was posed to The Hollander—Are schools in Ottawa County compliant with the Trump Administration’s Title IX?

Krista Yetzke⁩

Woodland Commercial Equipment—The Secret to Success

Brian Winkler, owner of Woodland Commercial Equipment, is convinced that success does not lie in a certain business practice, method or system, or even in cutting corners or using cheaper parts; it’s deeper than that.

Patmos Library Staff Quit on Local Community in Planned Media Stunt

Five Patmos Library staffers quit in unison—and went straight to the press. It wasn’t just a resignation. It was a planned media stunt aimed at the board and the community that elected them.

Who Thought Antennas on Water Towers Was a Good Idea?

Water towers used to be charming. Now they’re Franken-towers—stuffed with antennas, draped in wires, and sometimes disguised as fake trees that fool no one. Charming, right?

Jenison Wilderness Academy Halts Expansion Plans

Second grade parents implore the district to reconsider, citing the life-changing impact the program has had on their kids.

Krista Yetzke⁩

The First 100 Days: Trump Hits His Stride

In his first 100 days, President Trump has worked to restore culture—a necessity for the continuation of a nation—to encourage and protect faith, reign in government bureaucracy, and restore reason to the world stage.

KeyPiece Furniture—The Key to Your Newly Improved Home

Jesus, coffee and furniture is the life motto for Chandler and Allison Stevens, the new owners of KeyPiece Furniture located at 916 Chicago Drive in Jenison.

For the Tulip Time Newbies

If you've never been to Tulip Time, or it's been awhile since you've gone, stick with us and you'll be saying "leuke tulpen" (nice tulips) in no time.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Title IX—Boys Return to the Boys' Restrooms and Girls to the Girls'

Just over a year ago, the Biden-Harris Administration released revisions to Title IX, stirring up parents across the county. Since then a lot has changed.

Krista Yetzke⁩

New Holland Doctor’s Office will Address Critical Shortage of Affordable Primary Care

Local West Michigan-based healthcare center opening new office in Holland, Michigan.

Coal—What They Don't Want You To Know

Tuesday, April 22, the Ottawa County Commission voted 7 to 4 against taking legal action against Consumers Energy to keep the J.H. Campbell plant operating after May 31 of 2025. Originally projected to close in 2040, Consumers spent over $800 million to upgrade the plant in 2015—a debt rate payers will continue to pay via a monthly surcharge even after the plant is demolished.

Ottawa County Approves New Letterhead Policy in 10–1 Vote

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners voted 10–1 to approve a new official letterhead policy for commissioners speaking in their individual capacity.

Ottawa County Board Makes Contentious Change to Robert’s Rules: A Vote for Speed or a Blow to Debate?

The Ottawa County Board made a big change this week that will make it easier to cut off debate during meetings. Supporters say it will keep things moving; others say it's a power grab that shuts down opposing voices.

Devin Booker Honors West Michigan Roots with Nike x Chevrolet Collaboration

Booker pays homage to his upbringing in West Michigan, and his deep-rooted passion for classic Chevrolet Blazers.

Bond and millage proposals are on the Ballot May 6

Next election coming to a poll near you? The Special Election on May 6—and that's just 4 weeks away.

Bling Bling and Bat Flips

That first 50-degree day hits differently for sports parents.

Fewer Cow Burps, but at What Cost

Lattes, cappuccinos, chocolate, milk, cheese, even pet food—if you’re not buying organic, you may want to pay attention to what's happening on dairy farms.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Moving Too Fast: Holland Joins in Protests Against America First Agenda

While the protests remained peaceful on the surface, some undertones in the crowd hinted at darker sentiments.

The Most Famous Bald Eagles of Ottawa County

If you ask residents in Ottawa County what their favorite park is, you will most likely get a majority singing praises about the Grand Ravines Park in Georgetown Township. But not for any reason you would expect.

We Visited Holland’s Waterfront Homeless Camp

“We don’t talk to outsiders” shouted a lady in her mid 30’s from a tent. With her were 3 other men, one of which was her husband. 40 minutes later, we learned a lot more about the camp.

The Sweet Lining Behind the Weather’s Identity Crisis

Is it spring? Still winter? On a Monday you were in shorts and by Tuesday a scarf and mittens. Wednesday—windows rolled down, Thursday—seat heaters on. Friday—you uncovered your plants, Saturday—covered them. Welcome to maple syrup season in Michigan!

Krista Yetzke⁩

Activists Tell Rep. Huizenga Attempted Assassination on President Trump was "fake"

U.S. Congressman Bill Huizenga did something refreshingly old-school on Friday: he walked out of his office and talked to the people. Yep, in person. On the sidewalk.

A Sweeter Sixteen

What makes playing in a Sweet 16 even sweeter? Getting there 16 times. And then taking home a win. Two Spartans players, both who have suited up as #11, know that feeling all too well.

Emily Underhill

HopCat? (Artist Formerly Known as “Crack Fries”)

HopCat in Holland eerily empty. We’re talking “is it even open?” levels of quiet.

Impact of Disease on the 2024 Deer Herd—The Results Are In

Heading into the 2024 deer season, conditions were ripe for an influx of disease on Michigan's deer herd.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Affogato's—Where Coffee Meets Ice Cream

Stepping into the shop, the immediate smell of warm waffle cones and espresso beans from behind the barista fills the room. Yes, if your little heart desires, you can start your day with ice cream in a freshly made waffle cone by 9:00am. Just ask the regulars.

Emily Underhill

When do you think about fire insurance? After a fire. COVID's positive effect on gun sales and CPL licenses.

Farmers Drive Tractors Around State Capitol

Why are farmers from Ottawa County driving tractors around the State Capitol building in Lansing, Michigan?

Burrito: Hudsonville's New Chipotle is Almost Here!

Drive past the northwest corner of Hudson Trails Drive and 32nd Avenue lately, you may have noticed some serious construction.

The Dutch Effect

Ottawa County has long had a reputation for being a conservative bastion. There was a large Dutch community here as many fellow Dutchmen had settled in the West Michigan region. They were united in their language, independent spirit, strong work ethic and adherence to the Dutch Reformed faith. My family fit right in.

Allegan County’s Ultimate Test of Endurance

The Allegan County Demolition Derby isn’t just a local event—it’s a full-throttle celebration of resilience, community, and unapologetic chaos.

Where’s Bill Huizenga?

It’s the hottest political mystery in West Michigan: Where’s Bill Huizenga?

A Good Hare Day

As rabbit hunting season comes to a close on March 31st, here’s a look back at what for the last two decades has been one of the highlights, the annual Rabbit Contest at Grand Valley Sporting Goods in Allendale.

Krista Yetzke⁩

Progress in Slow Motion: Holland's Big Plans Face Delays, Dollars, and Red Tape

Holland - Major projects: a new bike park, Hope College’s Gateway development, and the historic greenhouse relocation are all moving forward, but slowly, due to funding gaps, bureaucratic hurdles, and environmental constraints. Plans are in place, actual construction remains a waiting game.

205 Coffee Bar to Expand

205 Coffee Bar, a beloved local coffee hotspot, received exciting news on Monday, March 17.

Grand Valley State University Under Investigation for DEI Practices, Discrimination

Friday, March 14, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education announced investigations into Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and over 50 other universities.

The Afterschool Obsession

The car doors open. Backpacks fling in. Doors shut and seatbelts are buckled. Click, click, click. School is officially out for the day and your kiddos have one thing, and one thing only, on their minds. Bricks—The afterschool obsession.

Emily Underhill

If Gas Cans Could Speak

Replacing a metal gas can with a plastic one leads to many frustrations when dealing with a Michigan winter. To be successful, the user needs to be committed, resourceful, and downright clever.

The Classics: Trivial or Timeless

Literature has changed considerably throughout history, with readers and writers alike changing their preferences and styles over the years, adapting to the times and cultures they live in. Even looking back at books written fifty to a hundred years ago, the content is vastly different from what we are used to today.

Audrey Mitchell

Is the Holland Museum disconnected from its donors?

Pity request? Hand over $100k extra—now, please, and thank you.

Tallow Fries Takeover Grandville

Alright, the internet won’t shut up about tallow fries, so obviously, we had to investigate. Are they the crispy, golden revolution fast food desperately needs? Or just another foodie fad that’ll disappear faster than a Taco Bell menu item? Let’s find out.

Local Gun Show Draws Thousands, Dubbed Smashing Success

Individuals and families from West Michigan attended a packed-out Great Lakes Gun Show at Rivertown Crossings Mall.

Rocky Mountains of Holland Michigan

Holland, Michigan—home of tulips, windmills, and charming downtown streets that look like a movie set.

Women Who Ice Fish—Not Such a Rare Breed

Ice fishing. It's not every day you find people with the grit to withstand wind, snow, and below-freezing temperatures just to carve a hole in some ice and twitch a lure—all in the hopes of enticing the fish beneath them. But you do find those diehards in West Michigan, and a surprising number are women.

Krista Yetzke⁩

I've always been more of a DOGE girl than a cat person.

We the people have been thirsty for change over the ages, eager for a system shift with each changing of the guard.