For Immediate Release

September 19, 2025

PRESS RELEASE

Contact: Emmy Riemersma

Membership & Marketing Coordinator

Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce

65 E 7th Street Suite 300, Holland, MI 49423

616.392.9634 | emmy@westcoastchamber.org 

www.westcoastchamber.org 

Celebrating Business Excellence: West Coast Chamber Announces 2025 Award Recipients

(Pictured from left to right: Alex Tillard of Yellow Lime Creative, Tony McCaul of Critter Barn, Mike Novakoski of EV Construction, David Koster of Holland Board of Public Works, and Kelly Springer of Metal Flow Corporation)

Holland, MI – The Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Awards Celebration at the Holland Civic Center Place on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Over 200 members were in attendance as the community came together to celebrate the contributions and achievements of several outstanding local organizations. The evening was made possible by the support of Platinum Program Sponsor, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. 

“The Annual Awards Celebration reflects the trailblazing spirit that defines our members and our community,” said Jodi Owczarski, President and CEO of the West Coast Chamber. “We were honored to celebrate those who are leading the way with innovation and impact.”

The awards were presented to four organizations and one individual in the following categories:

Inspire: This award was presented to Yellow Lime Creative, an all-female marketing agency known for their contagious energy, bold ideas, and strong community relationships. Their creative approach inspires others to think differently and take bold risks that spark growth and connection. 

Innovation: This award was presented to the Holland Board of Public Works for their forward-thinking approach to sustainable energy and infrastructure. Through projects that prioritize environmental stewardship and community benefit, they are setting the standard for how utilities can innovate to serve and strengthen a community well into the future. 

Impact: This award was presented to Critter Barn, which began in 1984 and has grown into an educational farm attracting over 100,000 people. Through its groundbreaking Global Universal Design, Critter Barn is making an impact by creating a fully accessible place where everyone can connect with agriculture and community. 

Excellence: This award was presented to EV Construction. Founded in 1945, EV Construction is recognized for doing things in an unmistakably different way. They excel by combining innovation, integrity, and a people-first culture that sets them apart in the construction industry.

Icon: This award was presented to Kelly Springer, President and CEO of Metal Flow Corporation. A well-respected leader in West Michigan, Kelly has guided Metal Flow with integrity and vision, growing its global reach while remaining deeply rooted in community stewardship. She is widely recognized for her authenticity and commitment to strengthening business and community. 

To learn more about the award winners, follow the Chamber’s West Coast Way magazine as each winner’s story is featured in the coming months. 

About the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce:

The Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce serves over 1,200 member businesses and their 80,000 employees in the Holland and Zeeland areas. As a Catalyst, Convener, and Champion, the Chamber connects member businesses to the resources they need to be successful. The Chamber has been recognized with the U.S. Chamber’s prestigious Five Star Accreditation. Less than 1% of chambers in the country receive this distinction. The Chamber is proud to be named a 2025 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). Learn more by visiting www.westcoastchamber.org.

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