Capturing the magic of Dancing with the Local Stars Muskegon 2026 was an unexpected highlight of this year. I actually stepped in at the last minute to cover the event for a friend, and I am so glad I did; it gave me a front-row seat to the incredible heart and energy our community pours into this tradition, even though it’s a lot of work.

From the high-octane choreography of the “Brothers Johnson” to the polished grace of “Team Smooth,” the talent during the February 27–28 showcase was nothing short of cinematic. It was an absolute joy to document every dramatic lift and sequined detail, all while knowing every flash of the shutter supported such a vital cause—raising funds for our local food pantries. This 18th annual event proved once again that when West Michigan hits the dance floor, we do it with style and purpose.

Berlin Raceway, Marne, MICH.

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There is a specific kind of magic that happens on the shoreline of West Michigan when the temperature drops and the gales of November turn into the deep freeze of January. While most people are hunkered down with cocoa and a blanket, a few of us head toward the lake to witness the transformation of a local legend: the Muskegon South Pierhead Light.

These three shots capture the lighthouse not just as a beacon, but as a temporary ice sculpture carved by the relentless energy of Lake Michigan.

_{J.B. Sims Generating Station in full steam, March 2007}

The J.B. Sims Generating Station was a coal-fired power plant located on Harbor Island in Grand Haven, Michigan, and was owned and operated by the Grand Haven Board of Light & Power for nearly six decades. The facility’s first two units were completed in 1961, while the more prominent 80-megawatt Unit 3 was commissioned in 1983 to meet the city’s growing energy needs. Beyond providing electricity, the plant was a vital part of local infrastructure as its waste heat was used to power the city’s downtown snow-melt system, which keeps sidewalks clear throughout the winter. The plant officially ceased operations on February 13, 2020.

The Station was named in honor of J. Bryan Sims, a pivotal figure in the history of Grand Haven’s municipal utility.

Sims served as the Superintendent of the Grand Haven Board of Light & Power (BLP) for several decades, beginning in the late 1930s. He is credited with modernizing the city’s electrical infrastructure and spearheading the transition to more robust power generation to meet the growing demands of the mid-20th century.

Under his leadership, the utility made the significant move to establish a large-scale generating presence on Harbor Island. The plant that eventually bore his name was constructed and began operations in the early 1960s, shortly after his tenure, as a tribute to his long-standing service and vision for the city’s energy independence

Recently I had a conversation with someone about “If you can see across Lake Michigan?”. They didn’t believe me when I said I’ve seen across the lake at least once. This is a photo from my archive. It was taken on 15^th May, 2018, at 9:53PM at Pere Marquette, Muskegon. The view is in the direction of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Yes, you can see across Lake Michigan. I’ve only seen it once. Granted, I don’t go look at it everyday.

I always have my own version of the Singing Christmas Tree group photo for various assets I have to create for video production, this is the 2025 edition with the Mona Shores Choir and Orchestra.

The Northern Lights was not easily visible with our eyes at the location. With the help of the camera, it a dream come true. The USS Silversides SS-236 under the aurora was a tough one to capture. The video is the view next to the submarine across the channel, where you can see the light dances through a timelapse.

Family Portrait taken at Little Black Lake, Norton Shores, Michigan.

Some Behind The Scene Photos at Michigan Irish Music Festival 2025.

Thanks to Shane Hayes and Steve Lasko, these workshops audio recordings are made available to public to better your Button Accordion and Fiddling skills.