Careerline Students Advance to State Competition
Photo courtesy Ottawa Area Intermediate School District
A Zeeland East High School senior is one of five students from Careerline Tech Center’s diesel/ heavy equipment mechanics program that will compete next month in the SkillsUSA Michigan state championships.
Cade Arendsen qualified for the state competition that will take place April 12 in Grand Rapids by placing third in the Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology category at the Regional SkillsUSA competition at Lansing Community College on Feb. 21.
Homeschooled senior Paul TenHaaf earned first place in the Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology category while Jack Vannette, a senior from Unity Christian High School, placed second. In the Heavy Equipment Operator contest, senior Robert Buikema from Hamilton High School and Unity Christian High School senior Braden Avink placed fifth and ninth, respectively, to also earn spots in the state competition.
Diesel competition students spent nearly three hours demonstrating their technical skills and knowledge. Categories included running engine, drivetrain components, braking system, electrical, hydraulic, shop practices, engine fundamentals and measurement. Soft skills were also evaluated in a mock employment interview. Students in the Heavy Equipment Operator competition participated in written tests, driving exercises, and other tasks including backhoe, wheel loader and skid-steer operation.
The Diesel/HEM program at Careerline Tech offers a two-year program for those who would like to continue their studies. During the first year, students learn about the operation, maintenance, and overhaul of diesel-powered equipment and complete at least one engine overhaul. Students who continue with the program learn to troubleshoot and repair customer-owned equipment in their second year.
Jason Alberda, Diesel/HEM instructor at Careerline Tech, said it is amazing to think about how many skills students have when they complete the program.
“They know and can do so much, which will help them in many areas of their life,” Alberda said. “It is fun to see the progression of our students throughout their time at the Tech Center.”
Cade Arendsen qualified for the state competition that will take place April 12 in Grand Rapids by placing third in the Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology category at the Regional SkillsUSA competition at Lansing Community College on Feb. 21.
Homeschooled senior Paul TenHaaf earned first place in the Diesel/Heavy Equipment Technology category while Jack Vannette, a senior from Unity Christian High School, placed second. In the Heavy Equipment Operator contest, senior Robert Buikema from Hamilton High School and Unity Christian High School senior Braden Avink placed fifth and ninth, respectively, to also earn spots in the state competition.
Diesel competition students spent nearly three hours demonstrating their technical skills and knowledge. Categories included running engine, drivetrain components, braking system, electrical, hydraulic, shop practices, engine fundamentals and measurement. Soft skills were also evaluated in a mock employment interview. Students in the Heavy Equipment Operator competition participated in written tests, driving exercises, and other tasks including backhoe, wheel loader and skid-steer operation.
The Diesel/HEM program at Careerline Tech offers a two-year program for those who would like to continue their studies. During the first year, students learn about the operation, maintenance, and overhaul of diesel-powered equipment and complete at least one engine overhaul. Students who continue with the program learn to troubleshoot and repair customer-owned equipment in their second year.
Jason Alberda, Diesel/HEM instructor at Careerline Tech, said it is amazing to think about how many skills students have when they complete the program.
“They know and can do so much, which will help them in many areas of their life,” Alberda said. “It is fun to see the progression of our students throughout their time at the Tech Center.”
Hospice Legacy Projects Preserve Memories
Photo provided
Sentimental objects have a special way of keeping the memory of a loved one alive.
In hospice, creating keepsakes or legacy items has become increasingly common as a meaningful way to help cope with grief by physically preserving the memory of a loved one through tangible items.
At Emmanuel Hospice, legacy projects typically involve hand molds, fingerprints and heartbeat recordings, often paired with a quote, poem or song. As a bereavement coordinator, Katie Mayberry has facilitated numerous legacy activities, alongside volunteers and other care team members. She’s found them to be rewarding for everyone involved.
“Legacy projects are very patient-centered experiences that have a profound impact,” Mayberry said. “The activities themselves create a memory in the moment, often elicit stories and lead to more in-depth conversation afterwards. Loved ones then have a keepsake to reflect on later and use to process their grief.”
The projects, offered through the nonprofit’s art legacy and music therapy programs, are unique to each individual patient and can incorporate personal elements. The ultimate purpose, Mayberry says, is to foster connection. The activities can also be adapted for a patient's energy level and comfort, including those transitioning to the active dying stage.
“We make sure every legacy-type experience is met with lots of grace,” Mayberry explained. “That’s especially important during times when patients aren’t able to participate in the same way as someone earlier in their end-of-life journey.”
That was the case for Misty Galant’s husband, Jon, who received care from Emmanuel in 2023 when his health began rapidly declining in the end stage of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease.
“Katie was supporting our family, and when it became clear Jon was beginning to transition, she asked if we would be interested in a hand mold,” Galant said. “I said absolutely, and she showed up the next morning. It was a nice distraction from the condition my husband was in, and to have a conversation with Katie the whole time we were waiting for the mold to harden.”
With Misty and Jon, Mayberry remembers the experience was very intimate. The women knelt together on the ground next to Jon’s bed to ensure he stayed comfortable throughout the process.
“It is an imperfect process to create the hand molds, in the loveliest way,” Mayberry explained. “You must be in close proximity to one another, relatively still and physically present for 10 minutes.
“It often brings a lot of laughter, actually, and in a sense, joy. Stories come up that we don’t anticipate. It can also be a really emotional experience between patient and their spouse, or whoever they’re holding hands with.”
While Misty and Jon’s hand mold was a little more challenging to set up, Mayberry says theirs was one of the most detailed she has ever obtained.
“You could see all 10 fingers and their wedding rings, and that was really important,” Mayberry said. “I just remember it being a really wonderful experience with both laughter and tears.
“Misty has the hand mold on a shelf with a picture of them. It is just so rewarding to see something like that and know it’s so important for her to be able to have it. It was such a meaningful experience. That’s what we’re aiming for.”
Misty added: “I’m not sure what it is about the hand sculpture, but it’s just such a visual reminder I think because it’s actually our hands. Anytime I look at it, it’s a visual reminder of Jon and the bond we had. It’s the most personal gift I received during that time. I love it.”
Zeeland native Sara Torrey Lowe founded Emmanuel Hospice in 2013 with Sr. Gabriela Hilke in collaboration with St. Ann’s Home, Clark Retirement, Porter Hills and Sunset Retirement Community. Lowe is now the chief executive officer of Emmanuel Hospice.
Misty Galant now volunteers with the nonprofit. As interest in legacy projects continues to grow, Emmanuel Hospice is seeking the support of additional volunteers, as well as donations, to help serve patients and families. Those interested may call (616) 719-0919, email info@EmmanuelHospice. org or visit EmmanuelHospice.org for more information.
County Officials Warn Residents of Property Tax Scams
Ottawa County Treasurer Cheryl Clark, Prosecutor Sarah Matwiejczyk and Sheriff Eric DeBoer are warning homeowners about deceptive and illegal schemes targeting individuals facing property tax delinquency or foreclosure proceedings.
“These scammers deliberately target our most vulnerable residents during times of financial hardship,” Clark said. “It’s critical that property owners know legitimate assistance is available through proper channels.”
Fraudsters often prey on homeowners with false promises of assistance, only to strip them of equity, ownership rights, or additional funds. As tax deadlines approach, these schemes become more prevalent, exploiting individuals who are already under financial stress.
Elderly homeowners are especially at risk. Many of these schemes are designed to manipulate property owners into making hasty decisions that can lead to devastating consequences.
Scammers use a variety of methods to reach homeowners, including:
• Personal mailings
• Emails
• Text messages
• Phone calls
• In-person contacts
These contacts often urge property owners to “call now” for supposed assistance, creating a false sense of urgency.
Scams to watch out for include:
• Fraudulent “tax specialists” demanding excessive upfront fees to negotiate with tax authorities
• Property investors pressuring homeowners to sell for far below market value
• Fake government representatives demanding immediate payment via unusual methods
• Deed theft schemes tricking owners into signing over property rights
• Phony loan modification services requiring upfront payments for non-existent help
In many cases, these so-called “assistance programs” result in homeowners losing all rights to their property — even when they still have significant equity. Working directly with the Ottawa County Treasurer’s Office is the best way to protect property ownership and explore legitimate options.
If you are contacted by anyone other than the Ottawa County Treasurer’s Office offering help with delinquent property taxes or foreclosure, do not engage with them. Contact the Treasurer’s Office immediately at (616) 994-4501.
“These scammers deliberately target our most vulnerable residents during times of financial hardship,” Clark said. “It’s critical that property owners know legitimate assistance is available through proper channels.”
Fraudsters often prey on homeowners with false promises of assistance, only to strip them of equity, ownership rights, or additional funds. As tax deadlines approach, these schemes become more prevalent, exploiting individuals who are already under financial stress.
Elderly homeowners are especially at risk. Many of these schemes are designed to manipulate property owners into making hasty decisions that can lead to devastating consequences.
Scammers use a variety of methods to reach homeowners, including:
• Personal mailings
• Emails
• Text messages
• Phone calls
• In-person contacts
These contacts often urge property owners to “call now” for supposed assistance, creating a false sense of urgency.
Scams to watch out for include:
• Fraudulent “tax specialists” demanding excessive upfront fees to negotiate with tax authorities
• Property investors pressuring homeowners to sell for far below market value
• Fake government representatives demanding immediate payment via unusual methods
• Deed theft schemes tricking owners into signing over property rights
• Phony loan modification services requiring upfront payments for non-existent help
In many cases, these so-called “assistance programs” result in homeowners losing all rights to their property — even when they still have significant equity. Working directly with the Ottawa County Treasurer’s Office is the best way to protect property ownership and explore legitimate options.
If you are contacted by anyone other than the Ottawa County Treasurer’s Office offering help with delinquent property taxes or foreclosure, do not engage with them. Contact the Treasurer’s Office immediately at (616) 994-4501.
Worker Survey Highlights Challenges for Lakeshore Area
Lakeshore Advantage, a regional nonprofit economic development organization for the Holland-Zeeland area, has released a comprehensive report on the wants and needs of emerging workers in the Lakeshore region - a critical initiative aimed at helping the region’s business community attract and retain top talent.
Research was conducted by Hope College’s Frost Center for Data and Research. The survey gathered insights from 216 emerging workers between the ages of 18 and 34 during late summer and early fall 2024.
These findings will be used to help guide the future strategic focus for Lakeshore Advantage’s efforts to attract and retain young professionals.
“As competition for talent intensifies, we must stay laser-focused on ensuring the Lakeshore region remains an attractive, viable option for emerging workers,” said Mandy Cooper, vice president of strategic initiatives at Lakeshore Advantage. “The fact that so many young adults would recommend living here and see themselves staying long-term is incredibly promising. Now is the time to tackle issues and secure the talent our businesses need today and in the future.”
The survey found that 66 percent of respondents say they would pick the Lakeshore region over any other location. If they can find the right job and housing, they want to stay here.
Additionally, the report pointed to several key positive attributes related to living and working in the area including:
• Access to Lake Michigan
• Outdoor recreation
• Living close to family
• A sense of safety
Participants also shared constructive feedback:
Affordability and Compensation: Respondents rated local salary/benefits 3.24 out of 5.0, while cost of living earned only 2.78 out of 5.0. Fewer than one-fifth consider the region “affordable”.
Inclusivity and Advancement: Only about half of respondents said they feel the Lakeshore region is inclusive, and fewer than half see ample opportunities for career advancement or professional networking.
“As a young professional, I want to build my career in a place that offers both opportunity and a great quality of life,” said Noah Walters, journeyman eyelet tool and die maker at Trans-Matic. “It’s encouraging to see a focus on talent retention and community investments that make it easier for people like me to stay and grow here.”
As a next step, Lakeshore Advantage plans to actively promote the region’s high-demand career opportunities and engage a diverse group of emerging talent to guide its strategic initiatives. The organization will connect local employers with key resources and forge partnerships with educational institutions and government leaders to create vibrant, supportive communities. These efforts are designed to strengthen the talent pipeline, ensuring a skilled workforce is ready to meet the region’s future needs.
Research was conducted by Hope College’s Frost Center for Data and Research. The survey gathered insights from 216 emerging workers between the ages of 18 and 34 during late summer and early fall 2024.
These findings will be used to help guide the future strategic focus for Lakeshore Advantage’s efforts to attract and retain young professionals.
“As competition for talent intensifies, we must stay laser-focused on ensuring the Lakeshore region remains an attractive, viable option for emerging workers,” said Mandy Cooper, vice president of strategic initiatives at Lakeshore Advantage. “The fact that so many young adults would recommend living here and see themselves staying long-term is incredibly promising. Now is the time to tackle issues and secure the talent our businesses need today and in the future.”
The survey found that 66 percent of respondents say they would pick the Lakeshore region over any other location. If they can find the right job and housing, they want to stay here.
Additionally, the report pointed to several key positive attributes related to living and working in the area including:
• Access to Lake Michigan
• Outdoor recreation
• Living close to family
• A sense of safety
Participants also shared constructive feedback:
Affordability and Compensation: Respondents rated local salary/benefits 3.24 out of 5.0, while cost of living earned only 2.78 out of 5.0. Fewer than one-fifth consider the region “affordable”.
Inclusivity and Advancement: Only about half of respondents said they feel the Lakeshore region is inclusive, and fewer than half see ample opportunities for career advancement or professional networking.
“As a young professional, I want to build my career in a place that offers both opportunity and a great quality of life,” said Noah Walters, journeyman eyelet tool and die maker at Trans-Matic. “It’s encouraging to see a focus on talent retention and community investments that make it easier for people like me to stay and grow here.”
As a next step, Lakeshore Advantage plans to actively promote the region’s high-demand career opportunities and engage a diverse group of emerging talent to guide its strategic initiatives. The organization will connect local employers with key resources and forge partnerships with educational institutions and government leaders to create vibrant, supportive communities. These efforts are designed to strengthen the talent pipeline, ensuring a skilled workforce is ready to meet the region’s future needs.
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