The ANNOUNCER May 2023

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

may calendar of events

local events

TUES, MAY 2 5:30PM

TUES, MAY 2 7PM

TUES, MAY 2 8:30PM

WED, MAY 3

8:30PM

THURS, MAY 4 6PM

THURS, MAY 4

6:30PM

FRI, MAY 6 9AM

SAT, MAY 6 7PM

SAT, MAY 6

8PM

TUES, MAY 9

2PM

TUES, MAY 9 5:30PM

TUES, MAY 9 7PM

TUES, MAY 9 8:30PM

WED, MAY 10 8:30PM

FRI, MAY 12 10AM

SAT, MAY 13 10AM

SAT, MAY 13 10AM

Walking Fit with Ivy Rehab, at Life Stream Church, 6561 Lake Michigan Dr (every Tues)

A group set up to support walkers that want to enjoy exercise, socialization and fresh air!

Trivia + Food Trucks at Trail Point, 6035 Lake Michigan Dr (every Tuesday)

See you there, nerds!

Karaoke at Main St Pub, 11240 University Pkwy (every Tuesday)

Get your sing on and join us for some late night specials!

Trivia at Main Street Pub, 11240 University Pkwy (every Wednesday)

Put your useless knowledge to the test and win some prizes while you're at it!

Cigar Night at Trail Point Brewing Company

Dan and Andy from Davidoff Cigars (Camacho and Avo) will pair with TP beers!

Graphic Novel Book Club at the Library

This month's book is Cat Kid Comic Club by Dav Pilkey. School age kids.

Pop-in Playtime at the Library

Purposeful play for kids 6 and under!

Ottawa County Deputy Sheriff's Association Vs. Lions Superstars at AHS!

A game for the whole family, signing autographs and raffles!

Trivia at Embassy Bar + Grill, 10396 Lake Michigan Dr, West Olive

Team Trivia is a blast! Grab your friends and join the fun!

Card Games at the Library

Come out and play Hand and Foot with your neighbors!

Walking Fit with Ivy Rehab, at Life Stream Church, 6561 Lake Michigan Dr (every Tues)

A group set up to support walkers that want to enjoy exercise, socialization and fresh air!

Trivia + Food Trucks at Trail Point, 6035 Lake Michigan Dr (every Tuesday)

See you there, nerds!

Karaoke at Main St Pub, 11240 University Pkwy (every Tuesday)

Get your sing on and join us for some late night specials!

Trivia at Main Street Pub, 11240 University Pkwy (every Wednesday)

Put your useless knowledge to the test and win some prizes while you're at it!

Creative Dance at the Library, for 6 and under

Lake Michigan Dance Academy teaches basic principals of dance in a fun way!

Touch a Truck at the Library

Check out big trucks and the amazing operators that keep our community working.

Let’s Sketch! Allendale Engine House #5, 6610 Lake Michigan Dr

Meet outside of the museum to sketch together. $3 for interior museum sketching!

SAT, MAY 13

11:30AM

SAT, MAY 13

3PM

MON, MAY 15

12PM

MON, MAY 15

6:30PM

TUES, MAY 16

10AM

TUES, MAY 16

Up Shift Creek TSD Rally at Allendale Community Park

Find all the information on the FB event by the same name!

Astronomy Day at Hemlock Crossing County Park, 8115 W Olive Rd West Olive

Come join the Shoreline Amateur Astronomers, free!

Monday Movies at the Library

Watch A League of their Own and have some popcorn

Candy Sushi for Teens at the Library

Create your own delicious "sushi" using candy and rice krispy treats! Register online.

Coffee and Crafts at the Library

Spring is here! Enjoy creating your own terrarium! Registration required.

Tinker Tuesday at the Library

4:15PM Join us for STEAM based fun! for school age kids.

TUES, MAY 16 5:30PM

TUES, MAY 16

7PM

TUES, MAY 16

8:30PM

WED, MAY 17 8:30PM

THURS, MAY 18

10AM

THURS, MAY 18

8PM

FRI, MAY 19

SAT, MAY 20

FRI, MAY 19

8PM

TUES, MAY 23

2PM

WED, MAY 24

6PM

THURS, MAY 25

6:30PM

THURS, MAY 25

6:30PM

THURS, MAY 25 7PM

SAT, MAY 27

6PM

Walking Fit with Ivy Rehab, at Life Stream Church, 6561 Lake Michigan Dr (every Tues)

A group set up to support walkers that want to enjoy exercise, socialization and fresh air!

Trivia + Food Trucks at Trail Point, 6035 Lake Michigan Dr (every Tuesday)

See you there, nerds!

Karaoke at Main St Pub, 11240 University Pkwy (every Tuesday)

Get your sing on and join us for some late night specials!

Trivia at Main Street Pub, 11240 University Pkwy (every Wednesday)

Put your useless knowledge to the test and win some prizes while you're at it!

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!

Comedy Night at Trail Point Brewing

Two of the funniest comedians around will be peforming, all for free!

"Sale" Through Allendale Multiple Locations Garage Sale Event

Find out all the locations on the event by the same title!

Trivia at Embassy Bar + Grill, 10396 Lake Michigan Dr, West Olive

Team Trivia is a blast! Grab your friends and join the fun!

Card Games at the Library

Time to play Euchure!

Paint a Summer Bloom at Main Street Pub!

Sign up on Wineandcanvas.com to reserve your spot!

Adult Book Discussion at the Library

Come on out to discuss the book The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

Friends of the Library

Like to volunteer? This might be the place for you AND make some new friends!

Allendale Public High School Graduation

Celebrate the Class of 2023 at the Fine Arts Center!

Kyle Jennings: Live at Trail Point Brewing

Come out for a fun night of an amazing Michigan country singer/songwriter!

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.

Mothers Day

From Allendale Eye Care (Behind True Value)

Ask the Eye Doctor

WHY IS IT BENEFICIAL TO PURCHASE GLASSES FROM A CERTIFIED OPTICIAN RATHER THAN ONLINE?

Purchasing glasses from a certified optician allows for a more personalized experience. Optometrists are trained to conduct comprehensive eye exams and can provide a customized prescription and lens recommendation based on your specific needs. A certified optician will work with those recommendations to find the best options for you. Online retailers may not have the same level of expertise or attention to detail.

HOW CAN A CERTIFIED OPTICIAN ENSURE A PROPER FIT FOR GLASSES COMPARED TO ONLINE PURCHASES?

Certified opticians can take precise measurements (way more than just your PD!) and make adjustments to ensure that your glasses fit properly and comfortably. Online purchases do not offer this level of customization and may result in glasses that do not fit properly, causing discomfort or vision problems.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A CERTIFIED OPTICIAN HELP WITH FRAME SELECTION?

Certified opticians can recommend frames that complement your face shape, skin tone, and personal style. They also offer high-quality frames from reputable brands that meet safety and durability standards. Online purchases may not offer the same level of selection or quality assurance. A common misconception is that all frames and lens styles will work with any prescription! However, your prescription can limit the frame and lens styles that can be compatible. Certain frame styles can make your lens edges too thick or too thin!

CAN A CERTIFIED OPTICIAN PROVIDE ONGOING SUPPORT FOR GLASSES COMPARED TO ONLINE PURCHASES?

Yes, certified opticians can provide ongoing support for your glasses. They can answer any questions you have about your glasses, provide advice on proper care and maintenance. Online retailers may not offer the same level of support or follow-up care.

WHAT ARE SOME POTENTIAL RISKS OF PURCHASING GLASSES ONLINE?

Some potential risks of purchasing glasses online include incorrect prescriptions, poorly fitting glasses, and low-quality lenses or frames. Additionally, online purchases may not provide the same level of customization or ongoing support as optometrists. It's important to work with a trained professional to ensure that your glasses meet your specific needs and provide optimal vision and comfort.

ALL THE DETAILS ON CHOOSING YOUR GLASSES! Meet

Ladies Car Care Night

Have you ever wondered what those lights on your dash mean? Have you ever wondered how to find a good shop to bring your vehicle to? Have you wondered what maintenance needs to be done to your vehicle, or understand how to check fluids yourself? If you’ve ever asked any of these questions a nd would like them answered, come to:

Tolman’s Auto Tech Group

5455 Auto Ct (behind True Value)

6:00-8:00 pm

Tuesday, May 23

We will have a trainer go over material to make you a more educated vehicle owner. There will also be staff from Tolman’s on hand to assist you with any questions and also assist you in how to check fluids on your own car.

Attend this free event to:

- Understand how to select a quality shop

- Understand what the vehicle warning lamps mean

- Understand how to most effectively communicate with a shop

- Learn how associated component replacements will save you money

- Learn how to check fluids on your own vehicle

- Enjoy refreshments with others from the community

Date: Time: Location:

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

6:00 -8:00 pm

Tolman’s Auto Tech Group. 5455 Auto Court Allendale MI 49401

ON THE MOVE // MAY 2023

ALLENDALE AREA REAL ESTATE BLOG

Buyers -vs-Sellers’ real estate market?

Buying or selling a home is a significant decision that involves a significant financial investment. The real estate market can be classified into two categories - seller's and buyer's markets. Understanding the di erence between these two markets is crucial for both buyers and sellers.

Seller's Real Estate Market

A seller's market occurs when the demand for homes is high, and the number of homes for sale is limited. In such a scenario, home prices tend to be high, and they may continue to rise. As a result, sellers have more negotiating power, and homes tend to sell quickly. In a seller's market, buyers may face intense competition from other buyers, leading to bidding wars. As the demand for homes increases, buyers may have to pay more than the asking price to secure a property.

Factors that can contribute to a seller's market include low-interest rates, a strong economy, and a growing population. These factors can lead to increased demand for housing, which can cause home prices to rise.

What’s the di erence in West Michigan now? We don’t have a strong national economy, nor do we have overall low interest rates. What we do have locally is a blend of all these factors. High employment rate, above average income a low inventory of homes for sale have collided to cause an intense sellers’ market. Buyers need homes of course, but many sellers are refusing to sell and add available inventory to the West Michigan market. In talking with many potential sellers, they are holding on to their home because they are insecure regarding the state of our national economy and because so many have significantly lower interest rates than what is available to them now if they were to secure a mortgage. (more details are available in previous blogs)

Buyer's Real Estate Market

In contrast, a buyer's market occurs when the supply of homes exceeds the demand. In such a market, there are more homes for sale than there are buyers. As a result, home prices tend to be low, and buyers have more negotiating power.

In a buyer's market, sellers may have to compete with each other to attract buyers, which can lead to lower prices. Homes may stay on the market for longer, giving buyers more time to consider their options and negotiate with sellers.

Factors that can contribute to a buyer's market include high-interest rates, a weak economy, and a shrinking population. These factors can lead to decreased demand for housing, which can cause home prices to fall.

It seems unlikely that we are going to see a buyers’ market for some time. At this point, some equilibrium between a buyers and sellers’ market seems in doubt as well. Barring a worldwide economic crisis, we in West Michigan are likely going to see our home prices continue to rise as the nation’s inflation rate and demand continue to rise. For those interested in buying a home in 2023, the best time to buy would be today rather than postponing and hoping rates or prices will come down. Arguably, rates have stabilized and should stay relatively consistent over the next 12 months, however the price of homes in West Michigan will likely continue to rise. Add to that, the continued devaluation of the US dollar due to inflation and your best option to buy a home would be right now.

Which Market is Right for You?

Whether you're a buyer or a seller, understanding the current market conditions is crucial. In a seller's market, sellers can benefit from higher prices and faster sales. In contrast, buyers may find better deals in a buyer's market.

If you're a seller, it's essential to price your home correctly, work with a reputable agent, and be prepared for multiple o ers. If you're a buyer, it's crucial to do your research, be patient, and have a clear idea of what you're looking for in a home.

Factors that can influence the real estate market include economic conditions, demographic trends, and location. By understanding these factors, buyers and sellers can make informed decisions and achieve their real estate goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the real estate market can be categorized as either a seller's or a buyer's market. In a seller's market, demand for homes is high, and there is limited supply, resulting in higher prices and more negotiating power for sellers. In a buyer's market, there is an excess supply of homes, resulting in lower prices and more negotiating power for buyers. Understanding these di erences is crucial for both buyers and sellers in making informed real estate decisions. 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

CHARTER TOWNSHIP

www.allendale twp.org

TOWNSHIP INFORMATION

Township Board Mee ngs

Township board mee ng dates are May 8 and 22 at 6:00 pm. You can nd board agendas and minutes on our website: www.allendale twp.org.

Memorial Day Closure

In observance of Memorial Day, the o ce will be closed on Monday, May 29. Our outdoor drop box is open 24/7.

Concerts in the Park

Our 2023 Concerts in the Park series will feature ve performers at the Allendale Community Park Bandshell from 6PM 8PM. Food trucks will be available ever y night! Concert nights include June 20th and 27th, and July 11th, 18th, and 25th. An addi onal concert will occur on July 4th from 11am 1pm as a part of the Independence Day ac vi es. For more informa on, contact Elizabeth, Community Coordinator at (616) 892 3118 or elizabeths@allendale twp.org.

ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP LIBRARY

Memorial Day Closure:

In observance of Memorial Day, the library will be closed on Monday, May 29.

Coming Soon: Summer Reading Program

Our theme for the 2023 summer reading program is “All

Together

Now!” Check our website and Facebook page for all the fun programs we have planned this summer. Reading logs for all ages will be available beginning June 1!

BizStream’s Experience With a Compressed Workweek

In this blog post, we dive into the bene ts and tradeo s of a compressed workweek.

What Worked Well

By Heather Storseth April 20, 2023

Advice, Culture

The post-experiment survey results showed overwhelming support, with 100% of the participants saying they would like to try it again. Some of the bene ts speci cally mentioned were reduced stress and burnout, which was largely attributed to the long weekend or shorter days, depending on how the 32 hours were split throughout the week. As a result, participants mentioned feeling more refreshed and productive while at work.

The extra day also allowed teams to schedule team bonding activities. Go-Karts, axe throwing, and a trip to Dave and Busters are just a few examples of the activities that teams enjoyed together.

Personally, I found the compressed workweek extremely bene cial. I was able to schedule appointments, run errands, take more time to be with my kids, and volunteer. Having that extra time to focus on my family and myself was amazing.

Despite the overwhelming support for the shorter workweek, there were some issues mentioned. These include elevated stress levels in client-facing employees and team managers, less time for teams to communicate, and any issues with professionalism were ampli ed in the compressed workweek. For example, showing up late in a shorter week has a much bigger impact on the team since they have less time together. The same is true for any issues with communication. For example, if team members are not clearly communicating with each other, then any problems that arise from that will be felt more acutely in a shorter time frame.

Future Trials

The post-experiment survey clearly identi ed some improvements we could make to ensure future 4-day workweeks go more smoothly. Here’s what we learned:

We need to place a bigger emphasis on communication. Working together as a team and checking in with each other regularly is important. It’s best to hold o on hiring during that time, as we found the onboarding experience su ered. To improve communication and collaboration, we would consider making Thursdays an “in-o ce” day instead of an optional work-from-home day.

Additionally, we may explore rotating which teams work on Fridays by staggering schedules week-to-week.

First attempts sometimes go poorly. No matter how much thought and planning go into something, there are almost always unforeseen issues. What matters is how you react to them and what you learn. BizSteam clearly learned a lot from this experience and is dedicated to making future attempts work better.

What’s Next?

With 100% of the survey participants saying they would like to do it again, there have been a couple of ideas put forward to make that happen. One of the ideas is to work a 36-hour workweek instead of 32. This would still allow for shorter days while also keeping BizStream open on Fridays. Overall, BizStream has shown that the four day workweek, while tricky at times, is completely doable. In addition, the increased time away from the o ce allows our team members to slow down and spend time with their families or get out and enjoy our short (but sweet) Michigan summers.