The Announcer September 2023

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.

WEBSITE: www.allendalechamber.org

OFFICE HOURS: By Appointment

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

ALLENDALE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

September Calendar of Events

local events

WEEKLY EVENTS

Walking Fit with Ivy Rehab at Life Stream starting at 5:30pm

Trivia at Trail Point at 7pm

Karaoke at Main St Pub starting at 8:30pm

Trivia at Main St Pub starting at 8:30pm

Karaoke at Peppino’s Pizzeria & Sports Grill at 9pm

Senior Fit Time at Allendale Community Park at 11am, all abilities welcome

Trivia at Farmhaus Cider starting at 7pm

Trivia at Embassy Bar and Grill starting at 8pm

Food Trucks

Karaoke at Embassy Bar and Grill at 9pm

Trail Point: Tuesday - Sunday

Farmhaus Cider: Thursday - Saturday

Ask the Eye Doctor

WHAT IS COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME (CVS)?

Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), also known as Digital Eye Strain, refers to a group of vision-related problems resulting from prolonged use of digital devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. It's characterized by symptoms like eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME?

Symptoms of CVS include eye strain, dry or watery eyes, blurred vision, double vision, sensitivity to light, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and difficulty focusing on distant objects after prolonged screen use.

HOW CAN COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME BE PREVENTED?

There are several measures to prevent CVS:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, focus on something at least 20 feet away

2. Ensure proper lighting: Use ambient lighting that's not too bright or too dim, reduce glare from windows + screens

3. Adjust screen settings: Position your monitor at eye level, ensure proper text size and contrast, and adjust screen brightness and color temperature

4. Blink frequently: Blinking helps keep your eyes moist. Remind yourself to blink more often when using screens.

5. Use artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness

6. Correct ergonomics: Maintain proper posture, use an ergonomic chair and keyboard, and position your screen at a comfortable distance

7. Regular eye exams: Ensure your prescription is up-to-date, and discuss digital device usage with your eye doctor

CAN BLUE LIGHT FROM SCREENS CONTRIBUTE TO COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME?

Yes, prolonged exposure to blue light emitted by digital screens may contribute to CVS. Blue light can cause digital eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns. Using blue light filters on screens or wearing blue light-blocking glasses can help reduce its impact.

HOW CAN I ADJUST MY WORKSPACE TO REDUCE THE RISK OF COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME?

To create an eye-friendly workspace:

1. Position your monitor at eye level, about 20-30 inches away.

2. Ensure proper lighting, avoiding glare and reflections on the screen.

3. Use an ergonomic chair and maintain good posture to prevent neck and shoulder strain.

4. Arrange your desk to minimize distractions and optimize screen viewing.

Remember, if you experience persistent discomfort or severe symptoms, consult an eye care professional for guidance and treatment!

Fall is here and winter is approaching. Time to have your vehicle inspected and prepared for the coming seasons. As always, setting up a full inspection and creating a maintenance plan for your vehicle is the best way to avoid failures and downtime. With cooler weather on the horizon, there are few things to consider keeping your vehicle running smoothly.

Coolant condition is a key to having your engine run at recommended temperatures. Keeping the coolant clean keeps debris out of the heater core giving you optimal cabin heat. Replacing your cabin air lter, if equipped, ensures good air ow and air quality inside the vehicle. Tire tread and condition will make a huge di erence in handling, braking, and acceleration – particularly during winter driving conditions. If you haven’t already, now would be a good time to consider hybrid tires or snow tires ahead of winter weather. We know as summer comes to an end; our daylight hours become shorter. Wiper blade condition and exterior light operation will help ensure good visibility. Any questions, please call us!

Nestled in the heart of Allendale, Lake Michigan Dance Academy (LMDA) has become a cherished institution for local dancers and students, fostering their growth, artistry, and dreams.

As the academy prepares to bid adieu to a group of graduates who have called it home for seven years, let’s take a moment to reflect on the journey that brought the studio to life, the amazing individuals who shaped it, and the upcoming Nutcracker performance that awaits.

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD DANCE ACADEMY

Co-founder of LMDA, Alissa Tollefson is a professionally trained dancer who grew up in Naperville, Illinois, where she danced with a local studio from a very young age. In college, she pursued an education degree, but her dance professors encouraged her to consider a dance career.

After finishing her degree and completing a period of student teaching, she gave herself one year to audition for dance companies in Chicago. In her first audition season, she was hired by Thodos Dance Chicago, and toured with them for four years. During that time, she also began to teach dance at her hometown studio in Naperville, where she danced as a child.

"I fully immersed myself in teaching dance… I realized just how much I enjoyed it. While I had always loved both dance and teaching individually, it hadn't occurred to me to combine the two as a career."

That is, until her husband, Caleb, had a brilliant idea. “He was putting a bug in my ear… ‘Why don’t we start a dance studio?’ he’d say. I was like. ‘You’re crazy.’” But the idea wasn’t that crazy at all, and soon, they were doing their research.

“We knew we wanted to move to West Michigan… Caleb is from Jenison, so he knew the area, but Allendale seemed like a nice, growing town where we could put down our roots.”

In 2015, Alissa and Caleb moved to Allendale and began hunting for a location. In the meantime, they immediately got involved in the community to get to know the locals. Alissa would host free dance classes or

Dance, Growth, and Legacy: 7 Years of Lake Michigan Dance Academy

By: Shelby Sullivan Writer for the AACC

volunteer for local events, solidifying her place in our community before Lake Michigan Dance Academy even opened its doors.

“I did free dance classes at daycares, free dance classes at preschools, free dance class at the library,” says Alissa. “I wanted to meet people and get our name out, to connect with the community.”

Eventually, their dream location emerged. Life Stream Church offered them the space where they could build and grow the studio of their dreams.

Lake Michigan Dance Academy opened its doors in August of 2016. Growing from one dance room in a back hallway to several professional studio rooms, August 2023 marks seven amazing years of LMDA!

A COMMUNITY OF EDUCATORS:

During her time location-hunting in Allendale, Alissa worked as an adjunct jazz and modern dance professor at Grand Valley. Now, some of her dance teachers are Grand Valley alumni!

“Unintentionally we have so many Grand Valley alums that teach here because Grand Valley’s got an awesome dance department,” says Alissa. “They were just freshmen and sophomores at Grand Valley when I first moved here in 2015… and now they’re an integral part of our team. I don’t know what I would do without them.”

As the academy grows, these dancers evolve into amazing teachers, reflecting the circle of learning and growth that is at the heart of the academy's vision. This deep connection in the community continues to produce amazing dancers, and Alissa hopes that this will only continue.

CELEBRATING GRADUATES

Now, as the academy celebrates its 7-year milestone, it also bids farewell to a group of students who have been a part of its fabric since the beginning. These graduates have spent a significant portion of their formative years at Lake Michigan Dance Academy, honing their skills, nurturing friendships, and embracing the values of teamwork and perseverance.

While their graduation is a time for celebration, it can also feel bittersweet to the dance studio who has been with them since the beginning.

“They’re like my babies,” says Alissa, “and now they are in their senior year [of high school].”

But it’s not all bad. Alissa reflected with me on how proud she is of her graduates, and how excited she is that they have come so far.

“This is the most affirming part of my job, because I have been able to see them grow for so long and become beautiful dancers.”

These students’ journey through Lake Michigan Dance Academy is a testament to the environment of mentorship and encouragement that Alissa and her team have cultivated.

“Their work ethic, their dedication… I’m just so proud.”

Nutcracker will be a 90-minute show for everyone to enjoy!

With over 70 children and dancers poised to grace the stage, this iconic story will come to life in two performances on Sat. Nov. 18th at 1pm and 5pm at Centerstage Theatre at Coopersville High School. Get your tickets now!

2023 Nutcracker The

READY TO TAKE A CLASS?

Lake Michigan Dance Academy will be offering their Adult Dance Conditioning class every Wednesday, starting September 5th, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Totally for beginners, anyone can jump straight in, get exercise while learning a new skill, and practice art with like-minded people.

LMDA is also offering a tuition-back guarantee for the month of September, so if you aren’t totally satisfied, you’ll get your money back! Lake Michigan Dance Academy offers free class trials all year and their registration is always open so you can join any time. Sign up on their website at www.lakemichigandance.com, or scan this QR code to get started today!

A LANDMARK NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCE:

The pinnacle of the 2023 season is Lake Michigan Dance Academy's first production of The Nutcracker.

Spearheaded by LMDA’s own Sarah Robins, one of Alissa’s former GVSU students, the Nutcracker performance promises to be a showcase of the academy's commitment to excellence, artistry, and collaborationbut also fun! Students from all different age groups and backgrounds will unite in November to deliver a sugary-sweet display of talent.

“We don’t want just our students, we want everyone to be part of this. We want it to be a big, fun community thing.”

Although auditions are over, everyone can still get excited to be part of the event. Lake Michigan Dance Academy’s

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT

Kayla Smith

Brand Coordinator

kasmith@honorcu.com

800.442.2800, ext. 9205

Honor Credit Union Announces Annual Teacher Awards

BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – AUGUST 21, 2023 – Honor Credit Union is thrilled to announce the kickoff of its Annual Teacher Awards. Honor is committed to recognizing our local teachers for the time and effort they dedicate throughout the school year. Honor invites teachers to apply for the Annual Teacher Awards by explaining in 200 words or less how they would use additional funds to benefit their classroom and students.

New this year, Honor Credit Union will be awarding 30 teachers across its member center communities $500 towards their classroom, an increase in award value from previous years. Winners can choose between a digital Amazon gift card or a check cut directly to their school. These awards are just one way Honor recognizes teachers for their continued hard work and dedication.

Applications are being accepted now through Friday, October 13, 2023, at 11:59 PM, and winners will be notified by Friday, November 10, 2023. Applicants are not required to be a member of Honor Credit Union to be eligible to win. For complete details and to submit your entry for Honor's Annual Teacher Awards, visit honorcu.com/teachers.

ABOUT HONOR CREDIT UNION

Honor Credit Union is a non-profit, full-service financial institution serving over 110,000 members in 28 member center communities throughout western and northern Michigan.

Providing solutions for financial success and giving back to the communities we serve remain the driving forces behind Honor Credit Union. For more information, call 800.442.2800, or visit www.honorcu.com .

ON THE MOVE // SEPTEMBER 2023

There aren’t many homeowners in the US that are seriously behind in their mortgage payments. There are some, however. Most people entering or going through a foreclosure are unaware that they don’t need to lose their house to the bank or even lose money in a “short sale”. Homeowners in this position should call a realtor, find out what their home could sell for on the open market and use that realtor to sell their house. In the past 2-3 years, some buyers did pay more for a home than their budget allowed, but that doesn’t mean they need to lose money or forfeit the house to their lender in a foreclosure. House values are still climbing and as bad as inflation is for most of our daily lives, inflation is a good thing when you own an asset like real estate. Your home value is “inflated”. One of the main reasons there were so many foreclosures during the last housing crash was because relaxed lending standards made it easy for people to take out mortgages, even if they couldn’t show that they’d be able to pay them back. At that time, lenders weren’t being very strict when assessing applicant credit scores, income levels, employment status, and debt-to-income ratio. “Now, lending standards have tightened, leading to more qualified buyers who can a ord to make their mortgage payments. And data from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae shows the number of homeowners who are seriously behind on their mortgage payments is declining (see graph below-courtesy of Keeping Current Matters)”

Currently, the US has the lowest delinquency rates in history despite what the negative news cycles keep trying to preach. Quotes stating that foreclosures are up 150% might be true, but that statistic is designed to create fear in the market. The fact is if there were 250 nationwide foreclosures, a 150% increase is still only 375 foreclosures. The actual numbers are extremely low. In the first quarter of 2023 statistics show that nearly 35% of home purchases were cash (no mortgage) indicating the amount of savings and home equity earnings are still large enough for homebuyers to purchase without a mortgage.

Here are a few other reasons the real estate market is still HOT in West Michigan. Limited Housing Supply: If there's a shortage of available homes for sale relative to the demand from buyers, it can create a competitive market environment, potentially leading to higher prices and quicker sales.

Low Mortgage Rates: Historically low mortgage interest rates can make buying a home more a ordable and attractive, encouraging potential buyers to enter the market and invest in real estate. The US media keeps complaining that interest rates are high; however, they are still below 30-year averages and are not likely to stay as high as they are today. Buyers should not let the interest rate deter you from getting in on a home purchase where you can make more than 8% per year on your investment in some areas.

Steady Job Growth: Positive employment trends and job growth can lead to increased consumer confidence and purchasing power, driving demand for housing.

Urban Renewal and Development: Ongoing urban revitalization projects and new developments can attract both residents and investors, boosting demand for real estate in certain areas.

Desirable Locations: Michigan is known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and recreational opportunities. Locations with strong amenities, good schools, and overall quality of life can attract buyers and contribute to a strong real estate market.

Summary: If you are considering or sliding towards foreclosure, don’t be afraid. Call a realtor and find out your options. If you are a seller, you should be smiling because this is still a sellers’ market and if you are a buyer, the best time to buy is right now. Waiting for rates to drop 1-2 points while the house you want to buy goes up 3-4 points in value is a fool’s errand. Don’t wait.

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

Do you know someone in danger of FORECLOSURE?

Geo Brown is the Broker/Owner of City2Shore Gateway Group which has o ces in Allendale MI. and Byron Center MI. and manages more than 40 realtors who are experts trained to serve in our communities

Thank you to all who came out and to all those who participated!

CITY2SHORE GATEWAY GROUP ANNOUNCES MERGER WITH CITY2SHORE PRESTIGE HOME GROUP

Allendale Michigan- August 1, 2023- City2Shore Gateway Group, a leading real estate brokerage in West Michigan, is thrilled to announce its merger with City2Shore Prestige Home Group in Byron Center, solidifying its position in the greater Grand Rapids real estate market. The merger brings together two dynamic real estate firms under the leadership of Geo rey Brown of City2Shore Gateway Group. The merger with City2Shore Prestige Home Group represents a strategic move that has been in the works for some time. City2Shore Gateway Group has been a prominent player in the West Michigan real estate market, now boasting a team of 44 accomplished realtors, including 7 Associate Brokers, with Geo Brown at the helm as Principal Broker. City2Shore Gateway Group and City2Shore Prestige Home Group have both bucked the trend, expanding their rosters by attracting talented realtors who are dedicated to excellence. The emphasis on agent development and customer-centric practices has enabled these firms to thrive even in challenging times. City2Shore Gateway Group Real Estate will now operate from two key locations: 5596 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale, Michigan and 2034 84th Street SW, Byron Center, Michigan. The merger not only strengthens the firm’s combined footprint, but also lays the groundwork for further expansion. With o ces strategically located in Allendale and Byron Center, the brokerage is poised to deliver even greater value to clients seeking residential and commercial properties.

For more information, please visit: https://gatewaygroup.city2shore.com

DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

7:00am Bi-monthly Meetings

March 21, May 16, June 20, July 18, September 19, October 17, November 21

Board Members

Bob Chapin (Chair)

Jeremy Borgman

Kellen Brusveen

Brent Clark

Kristin Corner

Adam Elenbaas

Angela Hatto

Rence Meredith

Steve Spriensma

Ross Stevens

David Vander Wall

Tom Zuniga

Brandie Tenney Grand Valley State University

Dr. Patricia Roslund Allendale Eye Care & Refined Sensory Solutions

Kristin Siebers City2Shore Gateway Group

LaRon Henderson The Huntington National Bank

Abbey Vaughan Honor Credit Union

Philip Tolman Tolman's Auto Tech Group, Inc.

Terri Jeruink Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy

Scan for Calendar of Events

www.allendale-twp.org

TOWNSHIP INFORMATION

Township board mee�ng dates are September 11 and 25 at 6:00 pm. You can find board agendas and minutes on our website: www.allendale-twp.org.

Office Closure

Our office will be closed in observance of Labor Day on Monday, September 4th. Our outdoor drop box is open 24/7. We will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, September 5th.

ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP LIBRARY

September is Library Card

Sign-up Month!

Get in Your Element this September sign up for a library card! From borrowing books, ebooks, and museum passes to learning new skills, or a�ending story �me, a library card helps you do more of what you enjoy. Get a library card and dive into a new hobby. Use your library card to spark your crea�vity. A library card is your most important school supply it's elemental, really—and everyone should have one!

OFFICE INFORMATION

Summer Tax Deadline

The 2023 summer property tax deadline is September 14, 2023. Our lobby is open to receive payments Monday through Friday from 8AM-5PM, closed 12PM -1PM , or u�lize the parking lot drop box at any �me.

You may view or pay your bill online here: h�ps:// bsaonline.com/?uid=646. If you have ques�ons, please contact us at (616) 895-6295 or email frontdesk@allendale -twp.org.

Deer Removal on Roads

To ensure safe driving condi�ons, O�awa County Road Commission will remove deceased deer from the road right -ofway when crews are able. This service is done typically once per week on Fridays. Deer reported during the winter to OCRC will be removed in the spring. To report a deceased deer, please contact OCRC at (616) 842-5400.