The Announcer June 2023

“Then join hand in hand, brave Americans all! By uniting we stand, by dividing we fall.”

John

ALLENDALE AREA CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

The Announcer is delivered to you as a free monthly publication serving Allendale Township. It is brought to you by the Allendale Area Chamber of Commerce.

Scan Me!

ADDRESS:

11325 54th Ave. Allendale, MI 49401 (616) 892-2632

WEBSITE: www.allendalechamber.org

OFFICE HOURS: M-TH / 9am - 2pm

ADS SENT TO: Christie Tidd at allendaleannouncer@gmail.com

2023 Sustaining Partner Circle

Allendale Area

June Calendar of Events

local events

THURS, JUNE 1

6:30PM

SAT, JUNE 3

9AM

MON, JUNE 12

6:30PM

TUES, JUNE 13

10AM

TUES, JUNE 13 2PM

THURS, JUNE 15 10AM

FRI, JUNE 16 10AM - 4PM

MON, JUNE 19 10AM

TUES, JUNE 20 10AM

TUES, JUNE 20

2PM

TUES, JUNE 20

5:30PM

TUES, JUNE 20

5:30PM

TUES, JUNE 20

6PM

WED, JUNE 21 1:30PM

THURS, JUNE 22 6:30PM

THURS, JUNE 22 7:30PM

SAT, JUNE 24 10AM

Graphic Novel Book Club at the Library

This month's book is Goldilocks: Wanted Dead or Alive by Chris Colfer.

Pop-In Playtime at the Library

Pop in anytime between 9 AM and 12 PM for some fun, free play.

All Together Now: Learn to Juggle at the Allendale Community Park

Kick off our summer reading program and learn to juggle all together with Mr. Jim!

Creative Dance at the Library

Learn basic principles of dance through new and imaginative ways of moving. with LMDA

Card Games at the Library

Come out and play Hand and Foot with your neighbors!

OAISD Play N Learn at the Library

Designed for families for ages birth to 5 years, each family gets a free book to take home!

Family Game Day at the Library

Stop by for some lawn games (weather permitting), board games, and lots of fun!

Storytime at the Library

We'll read stories, sing songs, practice early literacy skills, and have fun, ages 6 + under

Coffee + Crafts at the Library

This month we'll make a patriotic wreath, registration required

Knitting for Allendale at the Library

Join us as we knit items for our community to use during the colder months

Teen Game Night at the Library

A night of video games, board games, and puzzles. Pizza will be provided. Ages 11-18

Backyard Summer Night at Life Stream Church

Food trucks, games and activities for all ages, and live worship with Jason Gray

Concert in the Park - Wyatt + Shari Knapp at the Community Park

Join us at the Bandshell for a free concert, food trucks available

Agriculture in the Classroom: Plant Tops and Bottoms at the Library

Learn about the functions of the major parts of plants, school age kids

Adult Book Discussion at the Library

This month we will be reading The Clover Girls by Viola Shipman

Friends of the Library Meeting

Join us for our 1st Annual Meeting + meet Anneke Letitia Van Ooyen Crans

IvyFit: Yoga at the Library

For all ages, come out and learn some basic yoga moves with IvyRehab

MON, JUNE 26

10AM

MON, JUNE 26

2 - 4PM

MON, JUNE 26

6:30PM

TUES, JUNE 27

10AM

TUES, JUNE 27

2PM

TUES, JUNE 27

6PM

WED, JUNE 28

Storytime at the Library

We'll read stories, sing songs, practice early literacy skills, and have fun, ages 6 + under

Maker Monday at the Library

Drop in between 2 and 4 PM to channel your inner scientist, maker, or inventor

Summer Sky Presentation at the Library

Presented by the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association

Reptiles with Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary

Learn about reptiles and see some up close with Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary

Card Games at the Library

Come out and play Euchure with your neighbors

Kids Music Fest featuring Tunes N Tales by Tricia at the Community Park Bandshell

Free face painting, balloon animals, food and food trucks, fun for all

Paint Sunflowers at Sunset at Main St Pub

6PM Register at wineandcanvas.com/grand-rapids/events

WED, JUNE 28

Pajama Storytime at the Library

7PM We'll read stories, sing songs, practice early literacy skills, and have fun!

FRI, JUNE 30

2PM

Learn how to crochet at the Library

Not sure how to crochet? Come learn or re-learn the skill! Register at allendalelibrary.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

Tuesdays:

Walking Fit with Ivy Rehab: Meet at Life Stream Church at 5:30pm and meet some new neighbors!

Trivia + Food Truck at Trail Point: See you at 7pm nerds!

Karaoke at Main St Pub: Get your sing on and join us for some late night specials starting at 8:30pm

Wednesdays:

Food Truck at Trail Point

Trivia at Main St Pub: Put your useless knowledge to the test and win some prizes, starting at 8:30pm!

Thursdays:

Senior Fit Time at Allendale Community Park: Find us at the Lions Pavillion at 11am, all abilities welcome!

Trivia at Farmhaus Cider: Grab some cider and food for dinner, stay for trivia at 7pm!

Food Truck at Trail Point

Fridays:

Trivia at Embassy Bar and Grill: Grab some grub and stay for trivia at 8pm

Food Truck at Trail Point + Farmhaus Cider

Saturdays:

Karaoke at Embassy Bar and Grill at 9pm

Food Truck at Trail Point + Farmhaus Cider

Sundays: Food Truck at Trail Point

Food Truck at Farmhaus Cider

Sunday, June 18

Spend quality time together. This could mean anything from going for a walk to playing catch to just sitting and talking Dads appreciate spending time with their loved ones, so make sure to make him feel special.

Give him a gift. It doesn't have to be anything expensive. A thoughtful gift, like a personalized card or a homemade gift, will mean the world to him

Cook him a special meal. Dads love to eat, so why not cook him his favorite meal? If you're not a great cook, there are plenty of easy recipes online that you can follow. Take him out to his favorite restaurant If Dad doesn't want to cook, take him out to his favorite restaurant. This will give you a chance to relax and enjoy each other's company. Go on an adventure. If Dad is the adventurous type, take him on an adventure. This could be anything from hiking to fishing to going to a sporting event.

Give him a massage. Dads work hard, so they deserve a massage. If you're not a professional masseuse, there are plenty of YouTube videos that can teach you how to give a basic massage.

Clean the house. Dads appreciate a clean house, so why not surprise him by cleaning the house from top to bottom? This will show him how much you care

Give him a gift certificate to his favorite store. If you're not sure what to get Dad, give him a gift certificate to his favorite store. This way, he can pick out something that he really wants. Write him a letter A handwritten letter is a thoughtful way to show Dad how much you appreciate him. Tell him all the things you love about him and how much he means to you. Just spend time with him. Sometimes, the best gift is just spending time with Dad. Talk to him about his day, his hobbies, and his dreams. Let him know how much you love and appreciate him.

No matter what you do, make sure that you show Dad how much you love and appreciate him on Father's Day. He deserves it!

A c t i v i t i e s i n t h e P a r k : 1 1 A M - 2 P M

I n c l u d i n g f o o d , g a m e s , a c a r s h o w , & f u n f o r a l l a g e s

A l l e n d a l e C o m m u n i t y P a r k

C o n c e r t b y J o h n & T a m a r a A n d r e w s : 1 1 A M - 1 P M

A l l e n d a l e C o m m u n i t y P a r k B a n d s h e l l

F i r e w o r k s : D u s k ( 1 0 : 1 5 P M )

A P S K - 8 C a m p u s

From Allendale Eye Care (Behind True Value)

Ask the Eye Doctor

WHY ARE SUNGLASSES IMPORTANT FOR EYE HEALTH?

Sunglasses are important for eye health for several reasons. Firstly, they protect our eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection can prevent these issues.

WHAT TYPE OF SUNGLASSES SHOULD I BUY TO PROTECT MY EYES?

When buying sunglasses, look for ones that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. These rays can cause damage to your eyes, even on cloudy days. Polarized lenses can also reduce glare and improve vision in bright sunlight.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF POLARIZATION IN SUNGLASSES?

Polarization is a special filter applied to sunglass lenses that blocks reflected light, reducing glare and improving visual clarity. This can be especially helpful when driving or participating in outdoor activities, as it can reduce eye strain and fatigue. Polarization can also enhance contrast and colors, making it easier to see objects and details in bright sunlight. Overall, polarized sunglasses can provide a more comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience while also protecting your eyes from harmful UV radiation.

ARE EXPENSIVE SUNGLASSES BETTER FOR EYE HEALTH?

The price of sunglasses does not necessarily determine their effectiveness in protecting your eyes. Look for sunglasses with 100% UV protection and a comfortable fit. Many affordable sunglasses offer adequate protection, but it's always best to read the label or check with your optometrist.

CAN WEARING SUNGLASSES PREVENT WRINKLES AROUND THE EYES?

Wearing sunglasses can help prevent wrinkles around the eyes by reducing squinting, which can cause fine lines to develop. Additionally, sunglasses can protect the delicate skin around the eyes from sun damage, which can also contribute to the development of wrinkles.

WHEN SHOULD I WEAR SUNGLASSES?

Sunglasses should be worn whenever you are outdoors, particularly during peak sunlight hours (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.). However, it's also a good idea to wear sunglasses on cloudy days, as UV radiation can still penetrate clouds and cause damage to your eyes. Additionally, wearing sunglasses while driving can help reduce glare and improve visibility.

Tolman’s Auto-Tech Group SPECIALS

Get your vehicle ready with a set of new tires for all of your summer driving, whether its to work or vacation time with the following specials.

Bridgestone Tire Sale: May 1, 2023 to September 4, 2023. Purchase a set of four eligible Bridgestone tires and receive a $70 Bridgestone Visa® Prepaid Card by mail, receive $100 if paid using your CFNA card.

Firestone Tire Sale: May 1, 2023 to September 4, 2023. Purchase a set of four eligible Firestone tires and receive a $60.00 Firestone Visa Prepaid Card by mail, receive $90 if paid using your CFNA card. Receive a $50.00 prepaid visa card with a qualifying brake purchase and installation of $250 or more. O er good May 1-June 30, 2023.

616.895.7500

5455 Auto Court Allendale, MI tolmansauto.com

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Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of technology and web development? Get ready to join a community of like-minded individuals led by the talented and experienced web developer Chris Hamm!

WHAT IS BIZSTREAM ACADEMY?

Since its inception in 2012, BizStream Academy has empowered students with the essential skills to create stunning websites. The 2023 BizStream Academy class offers an immersive experience, delving into the foundations of HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript.

For a single day, students will embark on a thrilling eight-hour boot camp, acquiring valuable knowledge and practical expertise. The program's highlight is that students can apply their newly learned coding skills to develop a fully functioning website that they can proudly share with their friends and family.

But BizStream Academy is more than just a one-day crash course. Its platform aims to ignite a genuine interest in coding and development among its students. BizStream Academy's ultimate goal is to inspire a passion for lifelong learning, even if coding isn't your chosen career path.

By the end of the program, students will walk away with a webpage they have built themselves and a hunger to continue exploring and expanding their coding skills!

The mentors at BizStream Academy firmly believe that anyone can build a website right from their own computer, regardless of their background.

DIVERSE + INCLUSIVE CODING CLASSES!

BizStream Academy is dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring equal opportunity access. As the program grows, they are actively working towards increasing funding and encouraging participation from underserved groups. They aim to provide classes throughout the year, making coding education accessible to all rather than confining it to the summer season.

Ignite Your Passion for Coding at BizStream Academy!

By: Shelby Sullivan Writer for the AACC

According to the National Center for Science and Engineering, a significant representation gap exists within the STEM workforce. While BIPOCs comprise 30% of the employed U.S. population, they only represent 23% of the STEM workforce. Additionally, women face a notable lack of representation in computer-related STEM fields.

However, BizStream Academy sees this gap as an opportunity to create pathways for those who need them the most! With the high demand and accessibility of computer-related STEM jobs, BizStream Academy is committed to promoting inclusivity and equality within the tech sector.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BIZSTREAM ACADEMY?

Ultimately BizStream Academy would like to expand its program into the public school system.

BizStream Academy has already had initial conversations with local school districts and other educational leaders in Ottawa County. They are excited about the prospect of providing an opportunity to teach such an in-demand skill set!

"Doing this would significantly increase our ability to reach students of all backgrounds and circumstances by meeting them where they are already at," says Hamm. "A large part of the funding we are seeking is to make sure that we can do this at no cost to the students."

Stay tuned for the exciting developments as BizStream Academy continues to positively impact our Allendale community.

WANT TO JOIN?

Seize the opportunity to participate in BizStream Academy's 2023 Summer Class with Chris Hamm! Whether you're a beginner eager to explore the fascinating world of coding or a seasoned enthusiast looking to expand your skill set, there's a place for you.

Don't miss out on this chance to unleash your potential and embark on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and growth. Register now for the 2023 Summer Class and let BizStream Academy unlock the doors to a future filled with endless possibilities!

ON THE MOVE // JUNE 2023

ALLENDALE AREA REAL ESTATE BLOG

What does the market look like this month?

The real estate market in West Michigan is still very strong with new opportunities for home buyers and sellers. Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home, understanding the current market conditions in Allendale, Blendon, Georgetown, Robinson and Polkton/ Coopersville can help you make the best decisions for your needs.

Let’s focus on Allendale Township in the last 30 days:

Currently: 88 Homes for sale on the open market / DOWN 3.6%

New to Market: 28 homes / DOWN 22%

Average Days on Market: 88 Days / UP 16.1%

Average Home Price: $422,696 / DOWN 0.1%

Number of list price reductions: 6 / UP 50%

Average sell price: $381,042 / DOWN 4.7%

Most expensive listing in Allendale: $1,089,000

Let’s summarize these statistics. Since the number of homes for sale is declining, but the number of buyers has been rising, we still have a strong sellers’ market with approximately 8 buyers for every home on the market (in the given area). The average days on the market has increased significantly as sellers have been over pricing their homes lately with the assumption that the demand will create sales. That is only partially true. The fact is, as home prices rise, many buyers are not able to borrow the funds to pay the sellers what they want, and therefore you see a 50% increase in the number of homes that required a price drop in order to sell. That also coincides with the drop in average sale price.

Professionally (Realtor) marketed and sold homes still are seeing a nearly 12% higher sale price when using a realtor than selling o market or “by owner”. Most people could sell their home buy owner given the “sellers” market but doing so costs them 12% higher sale price as well as repeated failed sales due to sellers’ inability to properly qualify a buyer and a steep increase in legal fees and lawsuits because of improper contracts and disclosures. The risks involved are not worth the 6-7% you are trying to save.

Geo Brown is the Broker/Owner of the Gateway Real Estate Group in Allendale Michigan. An independently owned and operated City2Shore Real Estate franchise.

If you would like to talk more about your options to sell or buy including timing and values, please feel free to message me for some direction. Gbrown@city2shore.com 1-616-895-8000

www.allendale-twp.org

TOWNSHIP INFORMATION

Township board mee�ng dates are June 12 and 26 at 6:00 pm. You can find board agendas and minutes on our website: www.allendale-twp.org.

Allendale Water System 2022 Water Quality Report

Is my water safe? Yes. Allendale Water System customers con�nue to receive water that meets or exceeds all the requirements of the Safe Water Drinking Act (SWDA). We are pleased to present the 2022 Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) as required by the SWDA. To ensure tap water is safe to drink, the Environmental Protec�on Agency (EPA) prescribes regula�ons which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems and annually requires water systems to provide informa�on to their customers regarding the quality of the water provided. To view the full report, please go to: h�ps://allendale-twp.org/ documents/1739-wqr2022

Thank you, Chad E. Doornbos, Superintendent of Public U�li�es

ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP LIBRARY

Mark off one circle for every 20 minutes of reading.

Once you finish 25 circles, visit the library to receive your halfway prize. A�er comple�ng the whole log, visit the library again by August 5 to receive a free book!

We are also offering events for all ages this summer! Check our website or Facebook page for all the details!

Independence Day & Concerts in the Park

Join us for the annual Ac�vi�es in the Park during the Allendale Fourth of July Celebra�on!

The ac�vi�es will be held from 11AM-2PM at the Allendale Community Park, 6676 Lake Michigan Drive. We will have food, games, and fun for all ages. From 11PM-1PM, John & Tamara Andrews will be performing at the bandshell. This free community concert is presented by Allendale Charter Township. If you have any ques�ons or are interested in volunteering, please contact the Township Community Coordinator, Elizabeth Szymanski, at 616-892-3118 or elizabeths@allendale

Come to the Allendale Community Park this summer for our annual series! Concerts are held from 6pm-8pm with the excep�on of July 4th.

June 20 | Wya� & Shari Knapp

June 27 | Tunes N' Tales with Tricia (Kids Night!)

July 4 | John and Tamara Andrews (11am -1pm)

July 11 | Neil Woodward

July 18 | Sunchaser

July 25 | Sweet Jus�ce

SUMMER READING PROGRAMS FOR KIDS AND TEENS

Addi�onal reading logs can be picked up at the library or printed from our website. Check out our website for informa�on about our summer reading program for adults too!

This project is funded in part by Michigan Humani�es, an affiliate of the Na�onal Endowment for the Humani�es, and the Michigan Arts and Culture Council.