An Un-Bowl-ievable Milestone

Holland Bowl Mill is celebrating 120 years of handcrafted artistry and family tradition on Saturday, Sept. 5, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Founded in 1906 by Louis Fuller in North Muskegon, the company pioneered a nesting process that creates multiple bowls from a single block of wood. Today, fourth-generation owner Kory Gier continues the legacy, growing the company while preserving its commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Since 2016, Holland Bowl Mill has expanded from $700,000 to $4 million in revenue, built partnerships with retailers including Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel, and welcomed visitors through free factory tours. During its milestone Labor Day weekend celebration, the event will feature live bowl turning, food, music, kids’ activities, a tent sale and exclusive commemorative bowls signed by third-generation owner Dave Gier.

Bookmarked for Success

West Michigan author Carla M. Flanders is celebrating national recognition for her debut book, On the Day You Graduate, which received a Silver Medal in the Gift Book category at the 2026 Independent Book Publishers Association Book Awards. As CEO of CMF Marketing & Events, Flanders brings more than 25 years of experience in marketing, strategic planning, and public relations. Inspired by her own family’s journey,On The Day You Graduate is an interactive graduation keepsake book that celebrates a student’s journey from birth to graduation. Through fill-in-the-blank pages, the book provides graduates with a means to capture memories from their school years, reflect on their accomplishments, and record their hopes and dreams for the future. Available online, at West Michigan retailers, Amazon, and Etsy, On the Day You Graduate offers a meaningful gift for graduates and their loved ones.

Banking on Experience

Consumers Credit Union has welcomed Molly Phan as office manager of its Saugatuck/Douglas location, bringing more than 26 years of financial industry experience to the role. Her career has included positions as teller, banker, assistant manager, mortgage loan officer, and branch manager, with 14 years dedicated to leadership. Phan will oversee office performance, support growth initiatives, engage local businesses, and guide her team toward achieving individual and organizational goals. “I love getting to know members individually and helping guide them toward banking solutions that truly work for their unique everyday lives,” said Phan. A longtime community volunteer, she has supported organizations including Tulip Time, Habitat for Humanity, and Harbor Humane.

The Original Boss Lady

Long before women gained broader access to corporate leadership roles, Adelphia Grace Ward was creating opportunities for women to build financial independence. In 1886, Ward and eight other women gathered in her Muskegon home to establish the Ladies of the Maccabees, a women-led fraternal benefit organization that grew into a national movement with more than 80,000 members. The organization provided financial protection while creating professional opportunities for women as lawyers, physicians, bookkeepers, and administrators. On October 1, 1892, the group expanded beyond Michigan by establishing its Supreme Hive, opening the door for national growth. Today, a historic marker on Apple Avenue honors Ward’s vision and enduring impact as a pioneer of women’s leadership.