Archive for the ‘Along the Lakeshore News’ Category
Monday, September 7th, 2009 |
Michigan State Fair ending today and possibly for good. The Michigan State Fair has survived 161 years of tradition here in the State of Michigan. Michigan’s Governor Jennifer Granholm faced with stiff budget cuts has brought her axe down on the Michigan State Fair. The Michigan State Fair is the oldest in the nation and now will just be a part of history. Gov. Jennifer Granholm announced last month that, faced with a $1.8 billion budget deficit, the state would be cutting all fair funding after Sept. 30.
Michigan State Fair ending today does not necessarily mean that it is gone for good. There is still hopes that the private sector can resurrect some type of assistance in keeping this tradition alive. With so many cuts going on in Michigan it seems there could be a way to salvage the fair. The state has not funded the fair for years. There has been a line item in the budget that allowed the state to pick up its losses. Last year, it lost $360,000. Planning for next year’s fair is on hold until word comes down from Lansing.
Most state fairs through out the country are seeing a growth in their number of attendance. With Michigan State Fair it is mostly funded from the private sector. Unfortunately the private business sector is suffering the same economic woe as the government. This has materialized in less supporters for the Michigan State Fair. This is only shows how bad Michigan’s economy is and how bad things can get. This is a sad loss for Michigan’s agricultural community and the citizens of Michigan.
This year, the fair heavily promoted Michigan’s $64 billion agriculture industry and the increased popularity of urban gardening. Planted seven weeks ago on fairgrounds land, the garden has yielded 300 pounds of food. Also, experience the slice of heaven called the Outdoor Skills Center, which includes labeled flora and a man-made lake shaped like Michigan, inhabited by 6,000 bluegills.
The Michigan State Fair ending today, Labor Day. How Ironic the closing of the state fair on the day that we honor our work force. The Michigan State Fair will no longer be honoring Michigan’s agricultural segment on Labor Day.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | No Comments »
Friday, September 4th, 2009 |
Alleged abductor arrested for allegedly abducting a female Friday morning. A 22-year-old Algoma Township man is in custody of the Kent County Sheriff’s Department. The woman was found safe and is talking with investigators about what happened.
The sheriff’s department reports they were acting on tips from viewers who saw surveillance pictures on television of the suspect and victim. The two were seen just before 6 a.m. at the Mobil gas station, 3620 14 Mile Road NE, in Algoma Township.
This is an update to the previous post Woman Bound Possibly Abducted From Kent County Gas Station
The police are calling this a “domestic related incident” and say the man and woman involved had some sort of relationship but they are not sure the extent or nature of the relationship.
Police continue their investigation to determine the exact nature of the charges to file with the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office.
Information from Wood TV8 was used in this report.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | No Comments »
Friday, September 4th, 2009 |

The man accused in the possible abduction, seen on surveillance video in the Mobil gas station, 3620 14 Mile Road NE, in Algoma Township, Sept. 4, 2009.
Photos Courtesy of
Wood TV8

The woman who is the victim of a possible abduction, seen on surveillance video in the Mobil gas station, 3620 14 Mile Road NE, in Algoma Township, Sept. 4, 2009.
From Wzzm 13 News
ALGOMA TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WZZM) – Kent County Sheriff’s deputies are investigating a possible abduction. It happened just before 6 a.m. Friday at the Northern Springs Mobile gas station, located at 3620 14 Mile Rd NE. Witnesses say a 21-year-old white man was in the gas station when a black female walked into the store with her hands bound behind her back. The man picked the woman up and carried her out of the store while her hands were still tied together. They were last seen leaving in a dark, two-toned smaller SUV, heading west on 14 Mile Rd.
From Wood TV8
Police searching for the victim and
suspect
Updated: Friday, 04 Sep 2009, 9:10 AM EDT
Published : Friday, 04 Sep 2009, 8:06 AM EDT
ALGOMA TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) – Police are investigating a possible abduction from a Mobil gas station in Algoma Township.
Police say a man walked into the business, 3620 14 Mile Road NE, in Algoma Township just before 6 a.m. Friday.
A woman then came into the store with her hands bound behind her back.
The man then picked her up and ran out of the store. They were seen leaving in a small, dark-colored, possible two-tone SUV, possibly heading west on 14 Mile Road.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Kent County Sheriff’s Department at (616) 632-6100 or Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | 1 Comment »
Tuesday, December 30th, 2008 |
The Iceman Cometh challenge mountain bicycle race is the largest one day mountain biking race in the United States. A 27-mile, point-to-point mountain bike race has been held in rain, sleet, mud and of course snow! 2,ooo amateur and professional riders from across the country and Canada registered for the Mountain Bike race. $25,000 in cash prizes and $10,000 in merchandise prizes were awarded in this years race. (more…)
Posted in Along the Lakeshore Entertainment, Along the Lakeshore News | 2 Comments »
Saturday, May 10th, 2008 |
Fifth Third River Banks Run 2008 Grand Rapids, Michigan completes its 31st run. It is my understanding so far that an American has won the 25k with a possible world record time. New World Record holders receive an additional $5000 dollars, these divisions cover, 25k mens and womens and 25k wheelchair division male and female.
The Fifth Third River Bank Run in Grand Rapids, Michigan is the largest 25k road race in the United States and usually brings in some of the worlds top runners. This year, however, many of the elite runners had to pull out due to the upcoming Olympics.
Results are not in yet for the Fifth Third River Bank Run 2008 race in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Results will be posted as soon as they come in.
Update:
2008 Olympian Brian Sell wins River Bank Run; Caroline Chepkorir wins women’s division.
This is the third win for Brian at the Fifth Third River Bank Run. Brian Sell’s time was 1 hour, 15 minutes and 8 seconds. Congrats Brian!
Caroline Chepkorir ‘s race time was 1 hour, 29 minutes and 34 seconds. This is Caroline first 25k event she has ever run. Congrats goes to Caroline.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | 4 Comments »
Sunday, March 16th, 2008 |

The Ride was a huge success yesterday at the Lakes Mall in Muskegon Michigan. There was a record number of teams that turned out to support the Mercy General Health Partner’s Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center.

The first ever womens division was won by the Twisted Sisters . Great Job Ladies!

The Twisted Sisters also won several heats.

There was a nice turn out to support The Ride.

The onlookers were even having a great afternoon at the Lakes Mall In Muskegon. You could hears cheers and applauds from the crowds as each team was racing against the 25 minute clock. Every one was having a great time.

With all the support of this years The Ride event I am sure that a great deal of money was raised for the Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center. It is great when you see the community being so supportive for such a good cause. Thanks every one who supported this event!
Update on “The Ride” Results:
Team Totals
Heat Totals
Individual Totals
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | No Comments »
Sunday, February 10th, 2008 |

The Sunflower Gourmet of Grand Haven, Michigan will be opening in the Grand Landing in April. The Sunflower Gourmet is going to be a neighborhood grocery store experience with a twist. They will be having some of the finest packaged gourmet foods as well as a deli area. Have a gourmet specialty favorite? Go ahead and make your recommendation.
Fresh, local & organic ingredients will be offered when available at the Sunflower Gourmet. They will also be carrying high-end housewares, including, but not limited to, Pillivuyt, Dansk, Emile Henry. The Sunflower Gourmet will also be offering packaged gourmet products from some of the finest companies across the globe, including olive oils, artisanal cheeses, handmade chocolates, gourmet rubs, vinegars, etc. Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor, Peets coffee from California, and some other surprises you won’t want to miss! I am not sure but I think if you ask they may have beer gift baskets. I do know that Sunflower Gourmet has beer and wine.
The Grand Landing is going to be bustling this summer with so many new shops to draw us in over and over again. The Sunflower Gourmet sounds just like a place that we could become real familiar with.
Check out the website for updates: Sunflower Gourmet
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News, Along the Lakeshore Other Stories, Along the Lakeshore Real Estate, Along the Lakeshore School News | 4 Comments »
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.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore, Along the Lakeshore News | 2 Comments »
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.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | No Comments »
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.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore, Along the Lakeshore News, Along the Lakeshore Weather | No Comments »
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.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | 1 Comment »
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.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News, Along the Lakeshore Weather | No Comments »
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.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News, Along the Lakeshore Weather | No Comments »
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.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | 2 Comments »
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
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | No Comments »
Monday, January 14th, 2008 |
Fire early this morning heavily damaged the B.C. Pizza business on the Chinook Pier. The fire occurred around 6A.M.
Unfortunately two fire fighters were injured. One fire fighter fell through the floor and sustained burns and injuries. The other fire fighter received elbow injuries. Both were treated and released.
The surf shop next to the pizza business was also damaged.
Thankfully this is not the busy time of the year for these businesses on the Grand Haven Channel.
It was too early to know the cause of the fire.
Posted in Along the Lakeshore News | 3 Comments »