By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
With an ever-changing energy market and increased demand on electric power systems, the Zeeland Board of Public Works is launching a major initiative to update its long-term plan for making sure the community has adequate power to serve the city’s homes and businesses.
The BPW board of directors and City Council last week gave the utility the ability to update its integrated resource plan (IRP), which guides decisions about power generation and supply. The plan will account for critical changes such as tightening capacity, aging infrastructure, increased renewable energy requirements, electrification and shifting customer expectations, said Bob Mulder, electric power supply and market operations manager at BPW.
“Reliable, affordable power has always been our top priority,” Mulder said. “But as the energy landscape changes, we must continue to look ahead. This planning process will enable us to make informed, community-focused decisions about how we generate and procure energy in the future.”
BPW last updated its IRP in 2012, but so much has happened in the energy market since that update. Mulder said that now is the right time to re-evaluate its mix of on-system generation and off-system resources, while continuing to prioritize competitive rates, reliability and risk management.
The City Council on July 8 and the BPW board the following day approved a professional services contract with Orlando, Fla.-based nFront Consulting in the amount of $203,700 and set a project budget of $225,000. The utility will have to dip into its electric operations and maintenance budget by $150,000 for the 2025-26 fiscal year to help cover the cost of the project.
While nFront was the low bidder, that was not the reason why the company was recommended for the contract. Three companies were within $30,000 of each other at the low end of the bids.
“In my mind, it’s who’s the best suited to this project,” Mulder said.
nFront has a track record of working with publicly-owned utilities including the Holland Board of Public Works and the Coldwater Board of Public Utilities, Mulder said.
Eight companies were invited to submit bids for the IRP project, of which six responded, Mulder said.
“This is the who’s who (in electrical consulting). These are the right people. There are the big players,” Mulder said.
In addition to updating the technical power supply plan, the IRP process will include a stakeholder engagement component to ensure community perspectives are considered. BPW will gather input from key community leaders, businesses, residents, and other stakeholder groups throughout the planning process.
“We should reaffirm that reliability and competitive rates remain top priorities while identifying other factors that are increasing in significance,” Mulder wrote in a memo to the BPW board. “It’s important to note that while we endeavor to engage with our various stakeholders and the public, their input is a voice and not a vote; a right exclusively reserved for our governing bodies.”
Zeeland Record
With an ever-changing energy market and increased demand on electric power systems, the Zeeland Board of Public Works is launching a major initiative to update its long-term plan for making sure the community has adequate power to serve the city’s homes and businesses.
The BPW board of directors and City Council last week gave the utility the ability to update its integrated resource plan (IRP), which guides decisions about power generation and supply. The plan will account for critical changes such as tightening capacity, aging infrastructure, increased renewable energy requirements, electrification and shifting customer expectations, said Bob Mulder, electric power supply and market operations manager at BPW.
“Reliable, affordable power has always been our top priority,” Mulder said. “But as the energy landscape changes, we must continue to look ahead. This planning process will enable us to make informed, community-focused decisions about how we generate and procure energy in the future.”
BPW last updated its IRP in 2012, but so much has happened in the energy market since that update. Mulder said that now is the right time to re-evaluate its mix of on-system generation and off-system resources, while continuing to prioritize competitive rates, reliability and risk management.
The City Council on July 8 and the BPW board the following day approved a professional services contract with Orlando, Fla.-based nFront Consulting in the amount of $203,700 and set a project budget of $225,000. The utility will have to dip into its electric operations and maintenance budget by $150,000 for the 2025-26 fiscal year to help cover the cost of the project.
While nFront was the low bidder, that was not the reason why the company was recommended for the contract. Three companies were within $30,000 of each other at the low end of the bids.
“In my mind, it’s who’s the best suited to this project,” Mulder said.
nFront has a track record of working with publicly-owned utilities including the Holland Board of Public Works and the Coldwater Board of Public Utilities, Mulder said.
Eight companies were invited to submit bids for the IRP project, of which six responded, Mulder said.
“This is the who’s who (in electrical consulting). These are the right people. There are the big players,” Mulder said.
In addition to updating the technical power supply plan, the IRP process will include a stakeholder engagement component to ensure community perspectives are considered. BPW will gather input from key community leaders, businesses, residents, and other stakeholder groups throughout the planning process.
“We should reaffirm that reliability and competitive rates remain top priorities while identifying other factors that are increasing in significance,” Mulder wrote in a memo to the BPW board. “It’s important to note that while we endeavor to engage with our various stakeholders and the public, their input is a voice and not a vote; a right exclusively reserved for our governing bodies.”
Port Sheldon?Man Charged
A 40-year-old man is facing multiple charges after barricading himself inside a Port Sheldon Township residence early Sunday morning.
Ottawa County Sheriff’s deputies were called to the home in the 14400 block of Fellows Station Road shortly after 1 a.m. after receiving a call of a domestic incident involving a firearm. Sheriff’s office crisis negotiators and critical response team members responding to the scene were able to get the suspect to surrender.
Ismael DeJesus of Port Sheldon Township was arraigned Monday in 58th District Court by Judge Craig Bunce. DeJesus has been charged with felonious assault, possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and domestic violence.
DeJesus is being held on a $10,000 bond in the Ottawa County Jail.
Ottawa County Sheriff’s deputies were called to the home in the 14400 block of Fellows Station Road shortly after 1 a.m. after receiving a call of a domestic incident involving a firearm. Sheriff’s office crisis negotiators and critical response team members responding to the scene were able to get the suspect to surrender.
Ismael DeJesus of Port Sheldon Township was arraigned Monday in 58th District Court by Judge Craig Bunce. DeJesus has been charged with felonious assault, possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and domestic violence.
DeJesus is being held on a $10,000 bond in the Ottawa County Jail.
Motorcyclist?Hurt After Striking Deer
A 29-year-old Holland man was hospitalized early Tuesday morning after his motorcycle struck a deer in Olive Township.
Ottawa County Central Dispatch received a call about 6 a.m. about the injury crash near the intersection of Polk Street and 108th Avenue.
Ottawa County sheriff’s deputies found the motorcyclist at the scene, complaining of arm and leg pain. An investigation found that the motorcyclist was headed eastbound on Polk near 108th Avenue when he struck a deer that had entered the roadway.
The injured man was taken by AMR Ambulance to Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The crash remains under investigation.
Ottawa County Central Dispatch received a call about 6 a.m. about the injury crash near the intersection of Polk Street and 108th Avenue.
Ottawa County sheriff’s deputies found the motorcyclist at the scene, complaining of arm and leg pain. An investigation found that the motorcyclist was headed eastbound on Polk near 108th Avenue when he struck a deer that had entered the roadway.
The injured man was taken by AMR Ambulance to Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The crash remains under investigation.
BPW, Union Agree on Labor Contract
By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
Union employees of the Zeeland Board of Public Works have a new three-year contract with the city-owned utility.
The City Council on July 8 and the BPW Board of Directors the following day approved the collective bargaining agreement between BPW and the Utility Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO Local 556. The agreement, which was earlier ratified by the union membership, is effective July 1 and runs through June 30, 2028.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to both the management and union leadership teams for their many hours of thoughtful discussion, problem-solving, and dedication to reaching terms that are mutually beneficial and reflective of our shared values,” BPW General Manager Andrew Boatright wrote in a memo to the utility board.
The BPW and union had spent the past 3-4 months on contract negotiations, Boatright said.
Electric utility employees will see an 8.02 percent pay raise in the first year of the agreement, followed by increases of 3.88 percent next year and 3.63 percent in 2027.
“That was to catch up with the market,” Boatright said of the first-year pay hike.
Water utility employees will get a 3.5 percent pay increase this year, followed by raises of 3.45 percent in 2026 and 3.25 percent in 2027, Boatright said.
The contract raises the payment for opting out of the city’s health, prescription drug and dental insurance program from $1,000 to $2,500. For longevity pay, BPW will pay an additional $250 in each step, beginning with the 5-to-9-year service category. Employees will also receive one additional personal day off after five years of service, as opposed to 10 years up until now, Boatright said.
The contract adds an additional week of vacation for employees that have completed at least 29 years of service at BPW, raising the maximum number of allowable vacation weeks to six. “That would be impactful to about four or five BPW personnel,” Boatright said.
The two sides also agreed to allow management the discretion to grant up to three weeks’ vacation for new employees, depending on their experience and the competitiveness of the job market, Boatright said.
The contract covers 14 BPW electric utility employees and five in the water utility.
Zeeland Record
Union employees of the Zeeland Board of Public Works have a new three-year contract with the city-owned utility.
The City Council on July 8 and the BPW Board of Directors the following day approved the collective bargaining agreement between BPW and the Utility Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO Local 556. The agreement, which was earlier ratified by the union membership, is effective July 1 and runs through June 30, 2028.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to both the management and union leadership teams for their many hours of thoughtful discussion, problem-solving, and dedication to reaching terms that are mutually beneficial and reflective of our shared values,” BPW General Manager Andrew Boatright wrote in a memo to the utility board.
The BPW and union had spent the past 3-4 months on contract negotiations, Boatright said.
Electric utility employees will see an 8.02 percent pay raise in the first year of the agreement, followed by increases of 3.88 percent next year and 3.63 percent in 2027.
“That was to catch up with the market,” Boatright said of the first-year pay hike.
Water utility employees will get a 3.5 percent pay increase this year, followed by raises of 3.45 percent in 2026 and 3.25 percent in 2027, Boatright said.
The contract raises the payment for opting out of the city’s health, prescription drug and dental insurance program from $1,000 to $2,500. For longevity pay, BPW will pay an additional $250 in each step, beginning with the 5-to-9-year service category. Employees will also receive one additional personal day off after five years of service, as opposed to 10 years up until now, Boatright said.
The contract adds an additional week of vacation for employees that have completed at least 29 years of service at BPW, raising the maximum number of allowable vacation weeks to six. “That would be impactful to about four or five BPW personnel,” Boatright said.
The two sides also agreed to allow management the discretion to grant up to three weeks’ vacation for new employees, depending on their experience and the competitiveness of the job market, Boatright said.
The contract covers 14 BPW electric utility employees and five in the water utility.
Township Planners Looking at Solar?Ordinance
By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
The Zeeland Township Planning Commission has begun work on an ordinance that would give the township some degree of local control over large-scale solar energy projects.
Planning commissioners for more than two hours on July 8 went over a proposed draft ordinance that gives the township possibly as many as nine different ways where it could regulate a large-scale solar project.
Local communities around the state have been creating their own ordinances in response to new laws that passed the state Legislature in November 2023 and were signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. They create a statewide clean energy standard and give utilities the option to bypass local communities and take their applications for large-scale solar directly to the Michigan Public Service Commission.
“Zeeland Charter Township recognizes that currently solar farms exceeding 50 (megawatts) name-plate capacity are regulated by the state of Michigan and may have certain abilities for partial pre-emption of this ordinance,” a draft version of the ordinance reads.
“The ordinance (if approved), applies to all solar energy systems under 50 megawatts unless and until the state of Michigan repeals or forfeits its rights to permit these facilities outside the parameters of local zoning. Potential developers of projects over 50 MW have the right to apply for local approval under this section should they choose to do.”
Some of the provisions that have been discussion for inclusion in the township ordinance that differ from state requirements include:
• Limiting location of commercial solar farms to areas that are zoned agricultural or industrial. The state does not require any specific zoning designation under the 2023 clean energy legislation.
• Commercial solar energy facilities would not be allowed on parcels of less than 50 acres. The state has no minimum requirement.
• All photovoltaic panels located in a commercial solar farm can be no more than 18 feet high as measured from the natural grade below the unit to the highest point of the unit at full tilt. The state’s maximum allowable height for a commercial facility is 25 feet.
• Any solar panels and support structures connected to a commercial solar farm would have to meet setbacks that include at least 50 feet from a side or rear property line, 50 feet from any road right-of-way and 300 feet from any homes not connected to the project. The state law has no lot line setback requirements.
• Any noise generated from a solar energy system would be no more than 40 decibels at the exterior of any habitable structure, also measured at the closest property line to the solar system. The state law limits noise from a solar system to a maximum 55 decibels at the outside wall of the nearest home.
• All solid waste generated by the solar energy facility would have to be removed from the site and disposed of “in an appropriate manner.” It would also require at least 50 percent of all materials used in construction, operation and decommissioning of the solar farm be recyclable. The state has no requirement of minimum recyclable content.
• Any solar farm would have to be screened and buffered with landscaping, such as installed evergreen trees or native vegetative plantings whenever existing natural vegetation does not adequately block out a facility from any public street or adjacent homes. The state does not have any landscaping rules.
No decisions have been on the ordinance yet. Township Zoning Administrator Lori Castello suggest-ed commissioners bring in Michigan State University Extension educator Charles Gould, who has a background in land use management and conservation practices for solar projects.
Commissioners plan to resume deliberations on the solar ordinance when they meet again on Tuesday, Aug. 12, and a public hearing on the proposed ordinance could be held in September, Castello said.
Zeeland Record
The Zeeland Township Planning Commission has begun work on an ordinance that would give the township some degree of local control over large-scale solar energy projects.
Planning commissioners for more than two hours on July 8 went over a proposed draft ordinance that gives the township possibly as many as nine different ways where it could regulate a large-scale solar project.
Local communities around the state have been creating their own ordinances in response to new laws that passed the state Legislature in November 2023 and were signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. They create a statewide clean energy standard and give utilities the option to bypass local communities and take their applications for large-scale solar directly to the Michigan Public Service Commission.
“Zeeland Charter Township recognizes that currently solar farms exceeding 50 (megawatts) name-plate capacity are regulated by the state of Michigan and may have certain abilities for partial pre-emption of this ordinance,” a draft version of the ordinance reads.
“The ordinance (if approved), applies to all solar energy systems under 50 megawatts unless and until the state of Michigan repeals or forfeits its rights to permit these facilities outside the parameters of local zoning. Potential developers of projects over 50 MW have the right to apply for local approval under this section should they choose to do.”
Some of the provisions that have been discussion for inclusion in the township ordinance that differ from state requirements include:
• Limiting location of commercial solar farms to areas that are zoned agricultural or industrial. The state does not require any specific zoning designation under the 2023 clean energy legislation.
• Commercial solar energy facilities would not be allowed on parcels of less than 50 acres. The state has no minimum requirement.
• All photovoltaic panels located in a commercial solar farm can be no more than 18 feet high as measured from the natural grade below the unit to the highest point of the unit at full tilt. The state’s maximum allowable height for a commercial facility is 25 feet.
• Any solar panels and support structures connected to a commercial solar farm would have to meet setbacks that include at least 50 feet from a side or rear property line, 50 feet from any road right-of-way and 300 feet from any homes not connected to the project. The state law has no lot line setback requirements.
• Any noise generated from a solar energy system would be no more than 40 decibels at the exterior of any habitable structure, also measured at the closest property line to the solar system. The state law limits noise from a solar system to a maximum 55 decibels at the outside wall of the nearest home.
• All solid waste generated by the solar energy facility would have to be removed from the site and disposed of “in an appropriate manner.” It would also require at least 50 percent of all materials used in construction, operation and decommissioning of the solar farm be recyclable. The state has no requirement of minimum recyclable content.
• Any solar farm would have to be screened and buffered with landscaping, such as installed evergreen trees or native vegetative plantings whenever existing natural vegetation does not adequately block out a facility from any public street or adjacent homes. The state does not have any landscaping rules.
No decisions have been on the ordinance yet. Township Zoning Administrator Lori Castello suggest-ed commissioners bring in Michigan State University Extension educator Charles Gould, who has a background in land use management and conservation practices for solar projects.
Commissioners plan to resume deliberations on the solar ordinance when they meet again on Tuesday, Aug. 12, and a public hearing on the proposed ordinance could be held in September, Castello said.
Harvest Stand?Ministries Steps in to Continue Senior Food Program
By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
Harvest Stand Ministries of Zeeland is one of five local food pantries across Ottawa County who are picking up the ball for distributing food boxes to senior citizens in need after a change in the program’s administration.
The Ottawa County Community Action Agency earlier this month announced that it was stepping away from operating the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, citing “costs and staffing requirements that exceed available funding and agency capacity.” The program is now being administered by the Michigan Department of Education.
CSFP is continuing in partnership with the five pantries who have been part of the program all along. Besides Harvest Stand Ministries, other participating food pantries include the Holland Salvation Army, Grand Haven Salvation Army, Jehovah Jireh Ministries of Hudsonville and Coopersville Cares.
Each of the pantries will serve specific geographical areas of Ottawa County with Harvest Stand serving clients in the city of Zeeland and Zeeland Township, Harvest Stand executive director Jordan Palladino said.
“We are working together, all the pantries, collectively to serve our communities,” Palladino said.
The Community Action Agency said it’s pleased that the Department of Education and the local food pantries are stepping in to serve the ongoing food needs of local seniors.
“Partnership has always been a cornerstone of Ottawa County’s approach to service delivery - a long-standing and efficient model that ensures programs are delivered effectively and with fiscal responsibility,” OCCAA Program Director Jen Brozowski said in a news release. “This transition reflects that continued commitment to doing what’s best for residents by leveraging available resources and collaboration.”
Seniors currently enrolled in the program have already been notified personally of the transition. The next distribution, scheduled for August, will take place as planned, Brozowski said.
While home delivery will no longer be available, many of the participating pantries offer additional resources, such as access to fresh produce and other support services, to those visiting in person, Brozowski said.
The Harvest Stand Ministries food pantry, located inside the City on a Hill ministry center at 100 S. Pine St., offers non-perishable food items, in-season produce, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, paper products, diapers and wipes, and laundry soap, according to the organization’s website.
Pantry services are available to residents of the city of Zeeland, Zeeland Township, Zeeland Public School district or the 49464 zip code. Address verification is required.
The Harvest Stand food pantry is open Monday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday from 1 to 6 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon. All guests are asked to schedule an appointment, which can be done online at harveststand.org/services/food-pantry.
Zeeland Record
Harvest Stand Ministries of Zeeland is one of five local food pantries across Ottawa County who are picking up the ball for distributing food boxes to senior citizens in need after a change in the program’s administration.
The Ottawa County Community Action Agency earlier this month announced that it was stepping away from operating the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, citing “costs and staffing requirements that exceed available funding and agency capacity.” The program is now being administered by the Michigan Department of Education.
CSFP is continuing in partnership with the five pantries who have been part of the program all along. Besides Harvest Stand Ministries, other participating food pantries include the Holland Salvation Army, Grand Haven Salvation Army, Jehovah Jireh Ministries of Hudsonville and Coopersville Cares.
Each of the pantries will serve specific geographical areas of Ottawa County with Harvest Stand serving clients in the city of Zeeland and Zeeland Township, Harvest Stand executive director Jordan Palladino said.
“We are working together, all the pantries, collectively to serve our communities,” Palladino said.
The Community Action Agency said it’s pleased that the Department of Education and the local food pantries are stepping in to serve the ongoing food needs of local seniors.
“Partnership has always been a cornerstone of Ottawa County’s approach to service delivery - a long-standing and efficient model that ensures programs are delivered effectively and with fiscal responsibility,” OCCAA Program Director Jen Brozowski said in a news release. “This transition reflects that continued commitment to doing what’s best for residents by leveraging available resources and collaboration.”
Seniors currently enrolled in the program have already been notified personally of the transition. The next distribution, scheduled for August, will take place as planned, Brozowski said.
While home delivery will no longer be available, many of the participating pantries offer additional resources, such as access to fresh produce and other support services, to those visiting in person, Brozowski said.
The Harvest Stand Ministries food pantry, located inside the City on a Hill ministry center at 100 S. Pine St., offers non-perishable food items, in-season produce, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, paper products, diapers and wipes, and laundry soap, according to the organization’s website.
Pantry services are available to residents of the city of Zeeland, Zeeland Township, Zeeland Public School district or the 49464 zip code. Address verification is required.
The Harvest Stand food pantry is open Monday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday from 1 to 6 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon. All guests are asked to schedule an appointment, which can be done online at harveststand.org/services/food-pantry.
Overcoming Barriers to Hospice for People with Disabilities
Sr. Maria Faustina made regular visits to Stephen Sabo and his family as part of his Emmanuel Hospice care team.
Photo courtesy Mary Ann Sabo
Photo courtesy Mary Ann Sabo
By Emmanuel Hospice
When Mary Ann Sabo was told her brother Stephen only had a few months to live, she immediately knew two things. First, she would bring him to her home to spend his final days. Second, she would need help – a lot of help.
Stephen had been born with spina bifida, which brought with it a host of physical and developmental disabilities. He was living in an independent apartment in Grand Rapids with a lot of daily support prior to an accident that landed him in a rehab facility where the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated his decline.
Mary Ann reached out to the team at Emmanuel Hospice to see if moving him to her home was even possible. Her brother would need help with pretty much everything – dressing, toileting, bathing, medication management and a host of things neither she nor her husband felt prepared to undertake. An Emmanuel social worker spent a day making calls before reaching out to tell Mary Ann the one word she most wanted to hear: yes.
“Stephen had a lot of complex physical needs I couldn’t handle on my own,” Mary Ann recalls. “Emmanuel Hospice was our quarterback, providing my family with the most compassionate team to lead his care for the final six weeks of his life. They recommended a skilled nursing agency that could support Stephen’s daily needs with kindness and grace. Emmanuel even found us a sitter who could spend time with Stephen when my husband and I had to work.
“For so much of Stephen’s life, we heard no, no, no – we couldn’t accommodate whatever the ask was because his needs were far too complicated. At the time when it mattered the most, Emmanuel got us to yes in the blink of an eye.”
That’s one of the primary reasons Cara Vink joined Emmanuel Hospice as a nurse case manager. For a decade, she had worked in a residential setting caring for those with disabilities, caring for those often written off by society. After completing a nursing degree, Vink was ready to take her new skills and push her advocacy in a new direction.
“The families of people with special needs are very passionate,” Vink said. “They’ve had to fight for their loved ones for years. They are that loved one’s first champion – and that can be a real barrier to calling in hospice. Families can be terrified because they think it means they’re giving up, and they’re wired never to give up.
“It’s my job to provide education, to reassure them hospice doesn’t mean we’re done fighting at all. It does mean their loved one can receive more support and more visits from a broader variety of caregivers – nurses, aides, spiritual caregivers, music therapists and more. It means they can get help 24/7 to manage symptoms and make their loved one more comfortable.”
Communication is critically important during end-of-life care - and doubly so, Vink says, when dealing with a patient with disabilities. Too often, these patients are ignored or overlooked, so Vink stresses the importance of clear, direct communication.
“When I sit down with a new patient and family, I make sure they know they are the priority,” she said. “It’s not just ticking through a list of questions. I make sure it’s a discussion, and I allow extra time for questions.
“It’s important to make sure the patient is included, even if they are nonverbal. I talk to the patient directly, even though I know they might not be able to respond. How we treat each and every patient is so important. That speaks volumes to families, particularly those with disabilities.”
Vink notes Emmanuel Hospice supports in other ways, large and small, to care for those with disabilities, including:
• Procuring durable medical equipment: For individuals who need a new wheelchair, it might take a year or more to wade through the insurance process. Vink says Emmanuel can cut through the red tape much faster, securing a new wheelchair in a matter of days or an oxygen tank in the middle of the night.
• Providing grief support: Vink explains shifting out of champion mode can be difficult for loved ones of those with disabilities. “It can be a grieving process not to have the same goals in mind, to feel like you’re giving up” she says. “We can help with the grieving process while the patient is still with us.”
• Delivering individualized care: A lot of Emmanuel patients end up feeling like family, Vink notes. “You get to know people very well,” she says. “As a nonprofit, we have the time to do extra things, such as patient wishes or complementary therapies that provide comfort and create memories. We pay a lot of attention to detail.”
That was especially true for Stephen Sabo. His Emmanuel care team loved talking with him about two of his favorite things: cooking and fishing. They celebrated with him when his great-nephew was born, with a music therapist coming in to record Stephen’s heartbeat and set it to music to share with the little one he would never meet.
Emmanuel nurses and aides laughed and joked and made him the center of attention until Stephen drew his last breath – and then they anointed his body with lavender and embraced his sister.
“I could not have asked for a better death for my brother,” recalls Mary Ann, wiping away the tears that still come readily four years later. “And I could not have done it without Emmanuel Hospice.”
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.
For more information, call (616) 719-0919 or visit EmmanuelHospice.org.
When Mary Ann Sabo was told her brother Stephen only had a few months to live, she immediately knew two things. First, she would bring him to her home to spend his final days. Second, she would need help – a lot of help.
Stephen had been born with spina bifida, which brought with it a host of physical and developmental disabilities. He was living in an independent apartment in Grand Rapids with a lot of daily support prior to an accident that landed him in a rehab facility where the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated his decline.
Mary Ann reached out to the team at Emmanuel Hospice to see if moving him to her home was even possible. Her brother would need help with pretty much everything – dressing, toileting, bathing, medication management and a host of things neither she nor her husband felt prepared to undertake. An Emmanuel social worker spent a day making calls before reaching out to tell Mary Ann the one word she most wanted to hear: yes.
“Stephen had a lot of complex physical needs I couldn’t handle on my own,” Mary Ann recalls. “Emmanuel Hospice was our quarterback, providing my family with the most compassionate team to lead his care for the final six weeks of his life. They recommended a skilled nursing agency that could support Stephen’s daily needs with kindness and grace. Emmanuel even found us a sitter who could spend time with Stephen when my husband and I had to work.
“For so much of Stephen’s life, we heard no, no, no – we couldn’t accommodate whatever the ask was because his needs were far too complicated. At the time when it mattered the most, Emmanuel got us to yes in the blink of an eye.”
That’s one of the primary reasons Cara Vink joined Emmanuel Hospice as a nurse case manager. For a decade, she had worked in a residential setting caring for those with disabilities, caring for those often written off by society. After completing a nursing degree, Vink was ready to take her new skills and push her advocacy in a new direction.
“The families of people with special needs are very passionate,” Vink said. “They’ve had to fight for their loved ones for years. They are that loved one’s first champion – and that can be a real barrier to calling in hospice. Families can be terrified because they think it means they’re giving up, and they’re wired never to give up.
“It’s my job to provide education, to reassure them hospice doesn’t mean we’re done fighting at all. It does mean their loved one can receive more support and more visits from a broader variety of caregivers – nurses, aides, spiritual caregivers, music therapists and more. It means they can get help 24/7 to manage symptoms and make their loved one more comfortable.”
Communication is critically important during end-of-life care - and doubly so, Vink says, when dealing with a patient with disabilities. Too often, these patients are ignored or overlooked, so Vink stresses the importance of clear, direct communication.
“When I sit down with a new patient and family, I make sure they know they are the priority,” she said. “It’s not just ticking through a list of questions. I make sure it’s a discussion, and I allow extra time for questions.
“It’s important to make sure the patient is included, even if they are nonverbal. I talk to the patient directly, even though I know they might not be able to respond. How we treat each and every patient is so important. That speaks volumes to families, particularly those with disabilities.”
Vink notes Emmanuel Hospice supports in other ways, large and small, to care for those with disabilities, including:
• Procuring durable medical equipment: For individuals who need a new wheelchair, it might take a year or more to wade through the insurance process. Vink says Emmanuel can cut through the red tape much faster, securing a new wheelchair in a matter of days or an oxygen tank in the middle of the night.
• Providing grief support: Vink explains shifting out of champion mode can be difficult for loved ones of those with disabilities. “It can be a grieving process not to have the same goals in mind, to feel like you’re giving up” she says. “We can help with the grieving process while the patient is still with us.”
• Delivering individualized care: A lot of Emmanuel patients end up feeling like family, Vink notes. “You get to know people very well,” she says. “As a nonprofit, we have the time to do extra things, such as patient wishes or complementary therapies that provide comfort and create memories. We pay a lot of attention to detail.”
That was especially true for Stephen Sabo. His Emmanuel care team loved talking with him about two of his favorite things: cooking and fishing. They celebrated with him when his great-nephew was born, with a music therapist coming in to record Stephen’s heartbeat and set it to music to share with the little one he would never meet.
Emmanuel nurses and aides laughed and joked and made him the center of attention until Stephen drew his last breath – and then they anointed his body with lavender and embraced his sister.
“I could not have asked for a better death for my brother,” recalls Mary Ann, wiping away the tears that still come readily four years later. “And I could not have done it without Emmanuel Hospice.”
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.
For more information, call (616) 719-0919 or visit EmmanuelHospice.org.
Hope Finds a Home Through Doors of Hope
By Kelli Boetsma
City on a Hill Ministries
Tucked off Main Street near Lawrence Street Park, City on a Hill is a place of hope and healing in the heart of Zeeland.
Now close to 20 years old, the former Zeeland Community Hospital has been transformed into a vibrant ministry center, home to more than 45 partner ministries and four core ministries – one of which is Doors of Hope.
Doors of Hope provides compassionate, relational care to individuals and families navigating challenging circumstances. Through life skills coaching, budget counseling, and transitional housing, the team walks alongside clients with practical support and a deep commitment to help them move forward. It’s more than assistance – it's a hand to hold and path toward lasting stability.
This month, City on a Hill Ministries is sharing a story of one local family whose lives are being transformed by Doors of Hope - thanks to the generosity of oursupporters.
A single father of three, working hard to provide for his family, recently found himself caught between rising costs and limited options. Despite holding steady employment, affording a safe place to live remained out of reach - until now. Through our ministry’s network of resources, advocacy, and financial support, this determined dad and his children are finally moving into a home of their own.
“I didn’t think it was going to happen,” he said. “But now I get to give my kids a place where they can sleep in their own beds. That means everything.”
Stories like this remind us why we do what we do. At City on a Hill Doors of Hope, we believe in walking with people through hard seasons and celebrating with them when new doors open.
City on a Hill is a movement of hope and collaboration that’s been transforming lives since 2006. With four of our own life-giving ministries (Doors of Hope, Health Clinic, Café, and Leader Renewal) and a campus shared by more than 45 other nonprofits and ministries, we are proof that when people come together with a shared heart for healing and renewal, entire communities are changed. From healthcare to housing support, from advocacy to spiritual restoration - City on a Hill is where mission meets momentum.
If you feel moved by this story and want to be part of helping more families take that next step, we’d love to have you alongside us. Every act of support - big or small - helps make stories like this possible.
Visit our website, coahm.org, to learn more.
City on a Hill Ministries
Tucked off Main Street near Lawrence Street Park, City on a Hill is a place of hope and healing in the heart of Zeeland.
Now close to 20 years old, the former Zeeland Community Hospital has been transformed into a vibrant ministry center, home to more than 45 partner ministries and four core ministries – one of which is Doors of Hope.
Doors of Hope provides compassionate, relational care to individuals and families navigating challenging circumstances. Through life skills coaching, budget counseling, and transitional housing, the team walks alongside clients with practical support and a deep commitment to help them move forward. It’s more than assistance – it's a hand to hold and path toward lasting stability.
This month, City on a Hill Ministries is sharing a story of one local family whose lives are being transformed by Doors of Hope - thanks to the generosity of oursupporters.
A single father of three, working hard to provide for his family, recently found himself caught between rising costs and limited options. Despite holding steady employment, affording a safe place to live remained out of reach - until now. Through our ministry’s network of resources, advocacy, and financial support, this determined dad and his children are finally moving into a home of their own.
“I didn’t think it was going to happen,” he said. “But now I get to give my kids a place where they can sleep in their own beds. That means everything.”
Stories like this remind us why we do what we do. At City on a Hill Doors of Hope, we believe in walking with people through hard seasons and celebrating with them when new doors open.
City on a Hill is a movement of hope and collaboration that’s been transforming lives since 2006. With four of our own life-giving ministries (Doors of Hope, Health Clinic, Café, and Leader Renewal) and a campus shared by more than 45 other nonprofits and ministries, we are proof that when people come together with a shared heart for healing and renewal, entire communities are changed. From healthcare to housing support, from advocacy to spiritual restoration - City on a Hill is where mission meets momentum.
If you feel moved by this story and want to be part of helping more families take that next step, we’d love to have you alongside us. Every act of support - big or small - helps make stories like this possible.
Visit our website, coahm.org, to learn more.
––––––––––––––––––––
Subscribe to the Legal News!
https://legalnews.com/Home/Subscription
Full access to public notices, articles, columns, archives, statistics, calendar and more
Day Pass Only $4.95!
One-County $80/year
Three-County & Full Pass also available
