5 Years in Print
From a Dream to Reality
Five years ago, this magazine started as just a dream to bring neighbors together and share stories that make our community so special. What began with just a few pages, a lot of sweat equity, and admittedly some tears, has grown into something special that I'm incredibly proud of. As we celebrate 5 years in print, I'm reflecting on some of the people, pets, businesses, and memories we've featured and the amazing connections we've fostered along the way!
July 2021
Our Inaugural issue, back then called 'Laker Living,' featured Dr. Jared Van Ittersum, his lovely wife Daisy, and their 3 beautiful kids, Ariana, Leilani, and Jared V or 'Coco.' Dr. Jared has a thriving dental practice here in SL, Infinity Dental. The family and business are deeply woven into the fabric of our community. We especially loved kicking it off with this wonderful family, including their kids, who are all 5 years older now. Like what?!?
May 2022
We hosted a 'Posh Pup Parade' event in Central Park with some adoption dogs coming out with their best frocks and costumes on from The Noah Project. We invited our business partners and the community to come out, cheer on their pups as they strutted their stuff on the walkway. Every dog got a ribbon and ice cream provided by the Front Porch!
September 2022
Our Athlete of the Month has become a hot-featured section in STROLL. This community sure does love its sports, and we were honored to highlight one of our first, cross country and track star, Ian Hill. His team was named All-American in the 4x400m and the speed medley relay; they won State in the 4x400m; and their team placed third in the state in cross country. He received a scholarship to the University of Michigan for the Fall of 2022.
February 2023
Dave and Mary Molyneux graced our first-ever 'Love Bird' issue. This cover, taken by Alex Wisen Photography, earned us a Top 10 in The Nation Award, which is out of 800 publications!
August 2023
Spring Lake Bass Fishing Club was highlighted by our Assistant Publisher, Jennifer Brewster. It was founded in 2022 by Carly Crow and still continues to thrive three years later with more members every year!
June 2024
Our first 'Little Strollers' featured article with sweet baby Meli Vlasblom. Born in May 2024 to parents Chad and Kaitlin Vlasblom. She's an adorable, cheerful 2-year-old now and loves exploring. Eating and playing with older furry siblings, Doodles. Mom and Dad graced our April cover that year, proudly showing off their baby bump.
October 2024
Our First 'Boys of Fall' issue featuring the Hill boys. Eldest son Brady will be heading off to the University of Michigan in the fall, Parker will be a senior, and the youngest Gibson will be entering his freshman year. Life with three boys is as chaotic as ever, and parents Kari and Adam couldn't be prouder!
April 2025
We had the pleasure of highlighting Makayla Jazdzyk, whose contagious smile and knack for pouring the perfect cup of coffee at our local Biggby's earned her the prestigious 2024 Barista of the Year Award out of 5000 nationwide nominations!
May 2026
Our 4th Annual Graduation issue has been released. It's become a popular issue, allowing us to honor a nice cross-section of high school graduates, sharing their high school accolades, favorite memories, and plans for the future.