Archive for January, 2008

Sweet Temptations Moves to the Grand Landing

Thursday, January 31st, 2008

Sweet Temptations has now moved to the Grand Landing. Located now on the corner of Beacon and Jackson in Grand Haven, Michigan. Sweet Temptations will still be serving homemade treats and Grandpa Ray’s delicious icecream.

Sweet Temptations new location in the Grand Landing will definitely make it more excessible while hanging out on the waterfront. Not only will you be able to visit Sweet Temptations at the Grand Landing, but several other news businesses have now taken up residency there. So while you are getting your favorite treats, you will also be able to enjoy other shopping and entertaining experiences.

Sweet Temptations has also started their own website where you can order any of your favorite treats. You do not even have to live in the Grand Haven area to experience the homemade treats now. Don’t forget to order for your Valentine. There website is: http://www.sweet-temptations.com

Also remember Sweet Temptations 3rd Annual Pajama Party on March 1st – Wear your PJs and stop in for your favorite treat.

Grand Haven and Spring Lake Schools Closed Today

Wednesday, January 30th, 2008

Grand Haven and Spring Lake Schools closed today. Over 200 schools closed along the lakeshore in West Michigan due to the winter blast that came onto the lakeshore over night.

The freezing rain and snow combined with gusts of wind up to 40 miles an hour, has sent thousands of school age children back to bed this morning. The conditions are not expected to subside before noon.

The Michigan State Police are recommending everyone to stay off the roads today. Because of the gusts of wind the road commision will not be salting the roads so roads are extremely slippery. The north south roads are being hit the hardest.

Find out if your school is closed by clicking on the WZZM School Closing icon on the sidebar of this page.

To The Beach!

Monday, January 28th, 2008

It may be winter here in Grand Haven, Michigan, but people are still going to the beach. The Lake Michigan shoreline is still as amazing, filled with icebergs to walk on.

Yesterday was a wonderful day to be down at the Grand Haven pier. Even though the Grand Haven Winterfest had pretty much died down, the people were still going to the beach to enjoy the winter weather and scenery at the lake.

So many people were walking the pier to the lighthouse. I was a little amazed myself. Even at the public beach area people were getting out of there cars to wander out on the icebergs.

It only goes to show Grand Haven never sleeps. People love the Lake Michigan shorline any season. The winter is no exception.

Happy Birthday Michigan!

Saturday, January 26th, 2008

Happy Birthday Michigan! Today Michigan is 171 years old. On January 26, 1837 Michigan became the 26Th state to join the Union.

A lot has changed since then. Michigan lead the nation for a long time in prosperity and until recently was one of the most desired states to live in.

Michigan will reclaim itself again and this time it will be stronger and better. It will no longer be economically dependent on the auto industry and will become more diversified.

Michigan residence are proud people and love our state. We will do whatever it takes to be strong again.

Happy Birthday Michigan! Now blow out the candles and make a wish. Now lets go celebrate at the Winterfest in Grand Haven.

Grand Haven’s Winterfest Kick-off Was Great! Whats Next?

Friday, January 25th, 2008

Grand Haven’s Winterfest started out great at the Snow Bowl at Mulligan’s Hollow. Had a great showing from the community. Parking was a little tricky but once you got parked it was great skiing and boarding.

Tonight, Friday-Jan.25 the Winterfest is full of activities.

The Holiday Inn in Spring Lake and Jack’s is going to be having the Ice Sculpting. At 6:30 you can watch Jack’s culinary staff create art out of ice. This will be neat especially under the lights.

After you experience the Ice Sculturing, go to downtown Grand Haven and watch the Human Dog Sled Race. Race time begins at 8 PM. Entry is free and prizes will be awarded. The race will be held on Washington Avenue between Harbor and First Street. Registration is at 7 PM.

You could also stroll into the Tri-Cities Historical Museum between 6:30 – 8:00 PM and view works of the 2008 Winterfest Photography and Poster Contest participants. Check out the local talent and prizeses awarded. You can also enjoy some refreshments while you are their.

The night continues all night with a Music Pass. One ticket gets you into the local bars for music, fun, and drink specials on both Fri. and Sat.  Tickets available at many locations.  (616) 842-4499 for more info.

Saturday’s events start at 9 AM with the  Family Dog Pull and go on throught the whole day and night. Ending with a Luau Extravaganza.

For Sunday-Jan. 27 the Polar Ice Cap Golf Tournament ((Cancelled))  Details not available!

Grand Haven Winterfest Kicks Off Tonight

Thursday, January 24th, 2008

Tonight is the first night for the Grand Haven Winterfest. The snow is perfect and the weather is going to be great.

Tonight the family can enjoy skiing and boarding at Mulligan’s Hollow.  The event will take place from 4 to 8 PM at the Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl.

Lift tickets are only $1.

The winter fest has grown bigger and better every year. This is going to the best year yet.

Be sure to get out to the Grand Haven Winterfest and have a great time.

See you at the Snow Bowl.

Lake Effect Snow Causing Problems Again!

Thursday, January 24th, 2008

Along the lakeshore we were hit once again with lake effect snow. Even Fido is wondering where to go.

Many areas along the lakeshore received about a foot of snow. West Olive area was plummeted once again.

Schools in the West Ottawa and Holland areas were closed for the second time this week.

Driving conditions were hazardous for several drivers early this morning. One semi-truck ran off the road at the M104 exit to Grand Haven, shutting down the south bound ramp to south US31 through Grand Haven.

Fortunately this is going to come to an end for a while and the kick-off to the Grand Haven Winterfest is going to have perfect conditions.

The weekend weather outlook looks to be kinder on us. We should be able to get out and enjoy the out of doors instead of being couped up inside trying to stay warm.

This is going to be a perfect winter weekend for the Grand Haven Winterfest.

Great American Sports Complex Looking Good

Thursday, January 24th, 2008

Great American Sports Complex previous article

The Great American Sports Complex in West Olive, Michigan was the main topic of discussion at the Port Sheldon Township Hall last evening.

With West Michigan having the opportunity to house the largest indoor sports complex of its kind east of the Mississippi, the residents in the area had many valid concerns. The supporters of the sports complex were available for an open discussion. All indications are that the facility will bring in millions of dollars a week with such a complex.

The Great American Sports Complex would like to complete Phase 1 by the end of 2008. The first phase would include a 5000 square foot indoor complex and outdoor fields. The networking of Stanton Street and Fillmore Street to better handle traffic to US31. The internal roads of the complex would be completed as necessary to the completed areas. And on going improvements as construction continues to Phase two.

Making the Great American Sports Complex as green as possible was also discussed. Wind generating power was discussed as a source for some of its power.

Safety factors were also of concern as two residents have already been fatally injured walking Stanton Street in the past few months. Bike paths and sidewalks are being proposed to prevent pedestrians from walking along the roadway.

The planning commission expressed concerns for the West Olive risidents surrounding the sports complex as to how noise control was going to be handled. The commission would like to look into additional landscaping to handle the noise. It is understood that all noise could not possibly be blocked out when night tournament games are being held at the outdoor fields.

Rezoning the area for a mixed used zone did not seem to be a big issue.

Another open meeting is scheduled next month for the Great American Sports Complex and the planning commission.

100 Million Dollar Great American Sports Complex in West Olive

Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008

A 100 million dollar Great American Sports Complex in West Olive, Michigan could only mean good things in my opinion.

The sports complex would sit on the east side of  US 31 between Stanton Street and Fillmore Street. It would make use of 100 plus acres of land, and  support 1000 jobs.

Western Michigan sure could use a boost as far as development goes. The whole state could for that matter.

Not only would this create jobs for the  sports complex but the trickle down effect could be an enormous economic boost for all of Ottawa County.

With the Michigan’s one state recession going on, it is hard to imagine anyone not working with these developers to bring this to a reality.

This is only this person’s opinion. I would be interested in hearing other opinions as to whether or not West Olive should support getting the Great American Sports Complex approved.

There is a meeting scheduled for tonight, January 23 at the Port Sheldon Township Hall at Township Hall, 16201 Port Sheldon St.

Kids Home from School Today

Tuesday, January 22nd, 2008

With the kids home from school today enjoying their snow day in Spring Lake and Grand Haven, what are they doing?

Are they just sitting in front of their game systems or are they being productive?

I have noticed a couple of the local kids are actually out shoveling the snow. Is yours?

I can remember the days before cable television and game systems when kids actually pitched in around the house, before they went out to play. Of course with limited TV viewing, they were not watching TV.

Or how about taking this time to catch up or get ahead on some homework. There is a thought!

Maybe you can barter a deal, that if they help out at home or get their homework completed, you will bring home a pizza and a movie for dinner.

I am sure they is some snow activities in Grand Haven or Spring Lake they would love to go play at. Just maybe if they help you out, it would give you some free time to transport them to where ever they would like to go.

Spring Lake’s ice rink is open and I am sure the Snow Bowl in Grand Haven is just the ticket for some fun outdoor activity.

Hopefully with the kids home from school today, enjoying their snow day they take the time to participate in life along the lakeshore.

School Closing for Grand Haven and Spring Lake

Tuesday, January 22nd, 2008

Grand Haven and Spring Lake schools are closed today. The heavy snows over night have closed the schools in our are this morning.

Go to WZZM13 for a complete list of school closings in your area.

The Lakeshore News is the Weather!

Monday, January 21st, 2008

The lakeshore news topic lately is the weather. Along the lakeshore we have the strangest weather. Western Michigan along the Lake Michigan shoreline is so different than what is experienced just a short distance away from the lake.

We do not get snow here in Grand Haven or Spring Lake or anywhere close to the lakeshore. We get lake effect!

Saturday night, my husband and myself, had to go to Grand Rapids for a dinner. While I96 and US31 had been closed for bad accidents due to white-outs and icy conditions, just a few miles up 96 to Eastmanville you would have never known there was such a mess going on along the lakeshore.

We went just a few miles past Eastmanville toward Grand Rapids and the snow and blowing just stopped. The roads were dry and clear. It was still cold but that was about it. It was as different as night and day.

We went and had our dinner. When we returned home it was the same situation as when we left, accept  it was even darker with white-outs. It was a long ride home going so slow and white knuckling it.

We have a lot of perks living on the lakeshore in the summer with cooler temperatures and lake breezes, but we definitely end up paying for it in the winter months. I am not complaining though. The winters are absolutely gorgeous along the lakeshore in the winter.

Perhaps the lakeshore news is the weather, but for those that live along the lakeshore it is home for year round excitement.

Take Care of the Wild Birds During the Frigid Weather

Saturday, January 19th, 2008

wild-bird-care.jpg 

During this frigid weekend don’t forget to care for our feathered friends. Wild birds are endangered most during these cold temperatures.

When temperatures dip this low, they are predicting temperatures with the wind chill around -10%  for the Spring Lake and Grand Haven area here in Michigan, many wild birds will freeze to death.

Wild birds need fresh food and water just as much this time of year as in any other time of year.

With ponds and lakes freezing over there is no water supply for these feathered creatures. Try to set out a container of water for them during the day. Fill a container with tepid water and check it frequently. Do not put anti-freeze in the water.

Also check to make sure there is adequate food for them to eat. With our up and down temperatures lately, you may find that the outlets on the bird feeders have frozen over. Make sure that these openings are open so the bird seed is flowing properly.

We enjoy our wild birds year round. But this time of year they need our help to survive the extreme temperatures. So please take care of the wild birds during the frigid weather here.

Frigid Weather This Weekend in Grand Haven and Spring Lake Michigan | Be Safe

Friday, January 18th, 2008

Winter has returned to western Michigan. Spring Lake and Grand Haven Michigan are expecting very frigid weather this weekend. Take plenty of precautions to be safe while enjoying the out of doors.

It take very little time with the extreme cold temperatures to get frost bite. Be especially careful when young children and pets are involved. They forget about the cold temperatures when outdoors. Do not let them be outside for more than a few minutes at a time.

Also remember to keep your car  full of gas. You never know when you may experience an emergency road hazard. When plenty of gasoline you will be able to stay warm until help arrives.

Make sure too, when leaving home you have your cell phones fully charged in case of an emergency.

Just because it is going to be so cold, does not mean you cannot enjoy our winter wonderland here in Spring Lake and Grand Haven Michigan. It just means use common sense and dress appropriately.

Selling a Home in Spring Lake, Michigan

Friday, January 18th, 2008

Real Estate is still a hot commodity in the Grand Haven and Spring Lake Michigan. With real estate being hit hard in the eastern side of the state, homes in this area are still selling according to one real estate company here.

My daughter and her husband just listed their home with Greenridge Reality, Inc. of Grand Haven, Michigan. The same day the sign went out there were already people wanting to view the house. This was a good indication already.

This past Tuesday, January 16,  the realtors from the office came through the house and gave very positive feedback. Terry Rutherford the listing agent has been very reassuring to the owners.

Yesterday, January 16, the house was put on their Internet page for viewing. They have done a great job at capturing the charm of the home. They show a 360% viewing of the pertinent rooms. Really nice touch!

The home has only been on the market for a little over a week so not much is to be expected yet. The owners are very pleased to say the least so far.

Greenridge Realty, Inc. has been very professional and the home owners are very convienced it will sell quickly. Then it will be time to shop for the new home.

I will keep you updated as to how the sale progresses. We will see if Greenridge Realty Inc. lives up to their promises.

Family Fun at Spring Lake, Michigan Library

Friday, January 18th, 2008

Teen ’scape

Ages 10 and up, escape to the library every fourth Wednesday of the month for food, friends, and fun.  Play Xbox and Wii games, and get in on the pizza tasting contest to decide who has the best pizza in Spring Lake.

Wednesday, January 23, from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

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Automotive Advantage Presents:

Ladies Night @ the Library

What You Need to Know About Car Maintenance

A certified mechanic from Automotive Advantage, of Grand Haven will share information about:

  • 30, 60, and 90 mileage intervals.

  • What to keep your eye on between intervals.

  • How to maintain your car for the long term.

  • Why you don’t have to go to the dealer.

Pre-registration for this free program is required by January 18.  Call (616)  846-5770, ext 107, or register online at www.cars4keeps.com.

Snacks and beverages will be provided by Morning Star Café, of Grand Haven.  The first five ladies will be treated to reflexology or massage provided by Danielle and Jasmine of Natural Touches by Kelly.

 Wednesday, January 23, from 6:30 pm to 8:30pm

 

Meet Chef Kurt Jaeger

 Chef Kurt Jaeger from the Sardine Room prepares two of his favorite dishes, as featured in the Savor Michigan Cookbook. Come and sample the cuisine and share recipes. 

Tuesday, February 5, at 7:00 pm.

Pre-registration is required, as seating is limited.  Call (616) 846-5770, ext. 107  to pre-register.  Copies of the cookbook will be available for purchase.

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For more information contact Spring Lake District Library

Find out about their weekly pre-school story times.

Winterfest 2008 | Grand Haven, Michigan

Thursday, January 17th, 2008

Winterfest 2008  January 24 to 27 will have winter fun for all. Starts Thursday and ends Sunday Get to Grand Haven, Michigan and have the time of your life.  

Looks like winter is definitely going to be here for this one.

Winterfest is even going to have a human dog sled race on Friday night. You have got to be there to witness this one.

Polar Ice Cap Golf TournamentJANUARY 27 – SUNDAY 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM – U.S.G.A. Winter Rules Child, Individual, & Teams, 9 or 18 holes.  At Petty’s Bayou, Spring Lake.  (registration fee)  (616) 842-4910. Pre-register at www.grandhavenjaycees.org.
Ice Sculpting  -

JANUARY 25 – FRIDAY

Spring Lake Holiday Inn & Jack’s – Watch Jack’s culinary staff convert ice into art. This year with even more ice and more sculptures. Sculpting under the lights begins at 6:30 PM.  Call Jack’s at the Holiday Inn for more information and reservations, (616) 846-1370.

JANUARY 26 – SATURDAY Spring Lake Holiday Inn & Jack’s – Watch Jack’s culinary staff convert ice into art. First session at 11:00 AM, and sculpting under the lights begins at 6:30 PM.  Call Jack’s at the Holiday Inn for more information and reservations (616) 846-1370

Luau ExtravaganzaJANUARY 26 – SATURDAY :00 PM – 12:00 AM (Admission) The doors open at 7:00 PM, enjoy the tropical music from 8:00 PM – Midnight.  You must be 21 years of age to attend.  For more details call
(616) 842-4499.

Dollar family ski and boardJANUARY 24 – THURSDAY 4:00 – 8:00 PM. Mulligan’s Hollow. $1 Lift Ticket (weather permitting) Call the Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl
(616) 842-0634.

And Much Much More

Did I mention prises too!

To get a complete schedule go to Winterfest Online

Mitt Romney a Winner in Michigan!

Wednesday, January 16th, 2008

Mitt Romney has walked away with the Gop nomination today. Final vote count not in. But it appears Romney is the clear winner.

Another Slippery Time on US31

Wednesday, January 16th, 2008

With the return of winter there were accidents again tonight along Us31 from Grand Haven to West Olive. Not quite as bad as last night but still treacherous. The roads were once again ice covered late afternoon. West Olive seems to be getting a lot in the way of freezing drizzle and sleet.

While it was sunny and nice in Spring Lake it was hailing in West Olive. Whats up with that?

If you are traveling through the West Olive area this winter be extra careful.

Spring Lake Get Out the Vote Rally

Monday, January 14th, 2008

John McCain will be stopping in Spring Lake this afternoon to attend the “Get Out the Vote Rally

Spring Lake Get Out the Vote Rally and Town Hall Meeting Nichols Company
1391 Judson Road
Spring Lake, MI
4:00 PM

There is  no charge and is open to the public


Along the Lakeshore News

Here I'll share my knowledge, discovery and experience related to life along the lakeshore in Western Michigan. Most of the topics will be focused in an area from Grand Haven, Spring Lake and surrounding area.


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