What is happening in Lowell, MI

Lowell, I don't just live here, I love here...

2011-08-08T10:30:00.001-04:00

As if Lowell wasn't already the most quaint, antiquated and idyllic bedroom community in the great Grand Rapids area for a host of reasons, throw in the fact that we host the Kent County fair and you have what is called in Texas Hold 'Em a "Royal Flush"!

Yesterday my wife and I were driving through town going to a friends house to pick up firewood for a Middle School bonfire, and as we made our way down Rt. 50 out of town toward the Grand River, the fairground was teeming with excitement and energy. Animals were being led around by children, sweaty men were putting the final touches on pitching massive tents, vendors were leveling their mobile shops, "4-H"er's were mucking stalls and spreading beds of straw, and campers were lining the fields preparing for a week of sticky, humid sleep. Scores of bustling and hustling humans were frantically darting around like time-pressed ants working around the clock for the deadline of opening day. It was a sight for sore eyes.

I think I've unabashedly admitted before that I'm a farmer-at-heart and love to see the old-fashioned past-times of the simple agrarian life celebrated with vim, vigor and value. I can't wait to take the girls through the barns breathing in the pungent aroma of horse manure and petting those elegant creatures of power and beauty. I'm even looking forward to the sheep, pig, rabbit and chicken barns, though horse manure is in a league of its own as it relates to smell.

At the same time, you can't make it anywhere in our community without noticing the "Pink Arrow" craze that has officially begun. This is the 4th year of a community-wide cancer awareness weekend that culminates in a Lowell Football Game where the players take the field in custom made pink uniforms and then promptly tromp on some sorry team, making sport of them like a bloodthirsty gladiator. Shirts and banners are hanging on every light pole in the historic downtown district, storefronts are covered with posters and window paint, bumper stickers cover every other car you see drive by, people are wearing their pink t-shirts of the last three years almost frothing at the mouth for September 9th. The rabid excitement I'm sure almost scares outsiders, but this as well, is the genius of Lowell.

There is a spirit here that can be felt as you crest the Grand River bridge and see the King Milling grain bins and towers welcoming you with opens arms. In Latin is it called the "genius loci" - "they spirit of place". There is a provincial pride that dwells in the hearts of our people. We don't just live here, we love here. Here means something to us. Here is where we belong. Here is what is beloved. There is "spirit of place" that fills the streets and writes itself up the landscape and the cityscape. Even a passerby who is just driving through recognizes that this place takes itself seriously and life personally. We don't just use this town for its utilitarian purposes of providing the basic essentials for survival, we treat it as you would a home that has a heartbeat which requires investment, nourishment and encouragement. We want this place to have an irresistible spirit of hospitality, welcoming in the stranger as an angel, the outsider as adopted family. At least this is what I see and believe and want. Worse than bad, I want it.

I noticed Canfield plumbing investing in their building by bringing in a craftsman to replace old bricks and usher in "restorative masonry". Whenever I see this investment in preserving the old, my heart is filled with exceeding joy. I know that it costs more in some ways to preserve the old than to just tear it down and replace it with cheap pressboard, cheap sheetrock and cheap corrugated medal. "We pave paradise and put up a parking lot" as the song says. Or in this case, "We tear down a historic edifice and put up a pole barn." No one is thinking that it has a life-expectancy of 15 years before it will go to pot and start to rot because most people are thinking about economy and expediency, not history and mystery. I'm thankful for those glimpses of sacrifice I see in this town to preserve what is hallowed instead of replacing it with what is, in my humble opinion, hollow.

Heidi and I sat at Flat River Grill on a date last night sharing a sandwich and watching the sun go down over the river. The ducks were turning into slow moving silhouettes floating gently with the slow moving current, their heads tucked backwards under their wings like a boy pulling his pillow over his head to keep the light out of his eyes. The cool breeze moved through the patio almost giving you a chill. The lights on the showboat turned on and a couple guys walked by with fishing poles (Ben Boomers and Jeff Nemeier) and tackle boxes. Lovers walked hand in hand on the sidewalks along the river pointing and talking and smiling. Groups of friends shared stories and wine at nearby tables. It was the stuff of sappy novels, but it was real.

And as we drove home, I realized afresh why I love our little town. Because everyone lives here of all races, rags or riches, building companies or digging ditches, from minimum wager employees to seven-figure employers, from simple farmers to city slickers, carnies on one side of the road for the County Fair, cancer awareness on the other side of the road at Gilda's club...we are all different, but we are one. It is this solidarity that gives us the "genius loci" that marks us as unique.

But we mustn't think this will continue on without our active participation. We must stay engaged and create redemption and affect change right around us. We can't sit idly by hoping someone else with "keep 'r goin'" and "get 'r done"...it will die in a generation with that kind of degeneration. We must insert ourselves into the messiness creating order out of chaos. In our marriages, our families, our neighborhood, our region and our city.

So I'd like to make a toast to Lowell. Long live the spirit of this great community built on the selfless sacrifice of many who take great pains to ensure our town will be stay homey without feeling homely. Thank you for the many who lay down their lives so that people like me can drive into Lowell and feel gratitude well up saying with me, "I don't just live here, I love here." I intend to join the cause of keeping this spirit alive and leading others to do the same.

the idyllic town of Lowell...

2011-02-26T10:53:00.000-05:00

I live in a quaint town. I would even go so far as to say idyllic, and I don't just use that word flippantly. Granted, it's not the Shire or Yosemite, but it does rustle with something of an antiquity. It's an old logging town from the 1800's with converging rivers...the Grand and the Flat. Whoever settled here decided to build the town atop the two rivers. The downtown is literally built over the river with buildings perched up on treated lumber like the kind you see in summer homes on some exotic beach in the Florida keys.

Other buildings are set on cement pillars and walls that are drilled down deep through the mucky river's bottom and into the earth that lies beneath the water's current. Old brick buildings line Main St. each bearing the touch of a mason's hand. The hand hewn molding speaks of good ole' fashioned craftsmanship. The windows are tall and the glass antique looking. It's a window shoppers heaven.

Old street lanterns line the sidewalks in the historic district and at night it looks every bit as glorious as a Thomas Kinkade painting, glowing with the softened hues of something nostalgic. The Flat River is a shallow, slow-moving river teeming with wildlife. Swan families elegantly float back and forth from shore to shore, ducks fly in formation landing with furry and beauty, turtles sunbathe on protruding rocks and driftwood, fisherman stand along the river's edge fishing for pan fish with little red and white bobbers twitching with every nibble.

Along the shore there sits an old retired Showboat. It speaks of a rich history of shoreline concerts and family riverboat escapades upstream. I've seen old pictures, and when this double-decked monolithic beast moved across the water with hundreds of families smiling in delight, it glowed with glory. And yet, even docked along the shore, it still speaks with majesty of an era that was simple and pure. Sometimes I just stop and look at it letting its history fill my veins with the oxygen of yesteryear.

Among the tallest buildings in our little agrarian town are the grain silos of King Milling. It is a business that provides flour for a lot of the cereals you eat for breakfast in the morning. The hum of industrial equipment fills the air, and not the kind of noise pollution you constantly hear in Los Angeles; it's a hum that reminds you that people have jobs to provide for their families, a hum that speaks of the middle class gutting it out for a decent wage, a hum that made America great before our jobs were shipped overseas. There is something heart-warming about coming home from a trip and seeing the towering silos of King Milling welcoming you back to Lowell.

I'm sitting in a coffee shop in the historic district that has served as my solace and office for nearly 7 years now. The people that frequent this place come here looking for the warmth of a good cup of joe, yes, but they are pining for so much more than that. They are looking to brush up against the angel wings of community. They want to be said hi to. They want to be seen and acknowledged. They want to flee the rugged individualism and independence of the postmodern age and return to the roots of relationship. A smile, a nod, a wink. Anything that means you're interacting and interfacing with humanity. This "third space" is where I find my bearings, my center on most days. The muffled mutterings of conversations happening around me, the soft singer/songwriting music filling the room, the sound of coffee machines pressing out brew, the smell of fresh baked muffins, the soft lighting that speaks of simplicity and serenity...these are "a few of my favorite things".

In the spring/summer I enjoy kayaking from White's Bridge (covered bridge) to Fallasburg's Bridge (another covered bridge) taking in the beauty of the winding river and the best of nature's surprising wonders. Bald eagles nest atop tree, Great Blue Herons fly downstream with me as I push them along from one bend of the river to the next, baby fawns drink from stirring eddies and they are so tame you can about float up to them and pet them on the head. Fish dart back and forth under you exposed by the sideways sunlight, flocks of Mallard ducks and Canadian geese nest along the edges leading their young from the safety of the shore into the adventure of the current. They are carried along like little puffs of cotton.

Hardwood trees of every species provide a canopy of comfort over the rushing river, an umbrella of sprawling branches. Occasionally, you will see a huge oak tree fallen over the river due to the water slowly eating away the dirt from its tangled roots. Felling an oak is not the easiest of feats, but water is a patient warrior. I love taking my watercraft through the branches of the fallen tree that acts as a labyrinth--like a corn maze at Halloween. The therapy of a day of kayaking is unparalleled.

In the summer our family will park downtown, buy a loaf of bread from the local butcher's shop, and head down to the shoreline to feed the hundreds of desperate looking ducks. Sometimes we'll buy some homemade salty beef jerky to gnaw on while we fill the bloating bellies of those ducks. Watching the ducks fly in from all sides brings a smile to my face. I know that when they are quacking with frenzied excitement as we're feeding them they are yelling out some sort of signal to surrounding waterfowl. I imagine them screaming, "Everybody, get over here, some stupid humans are feeding us bread again!" And they come with abandon.

Ahhh, yes. These reasons and many more make my life in this bedroom community a pleasure of the highest order. I thank God all the time for bringing me to such a splendid location to live my life for his glory. It makes it so much easier to live for His glory when your live smack dab in the middle of it!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Christmas-Fun.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=dJ9e8nKaW34

2010-11-30T08:54:00.000-05:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Christmas-Fun.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=dJ9e8nKaW34

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/What-s-Happening-in-Lowell-the-Next-Place-to-Be-.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=wFIjr6-PAFk

2010-11-30T08:52:00.000-05:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/What-s-Happening-in-Lowell-the-Next-Place-to-Be-.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=wFIjr6-PAFk

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Happy-Thanksgiving-from-Lowell-Area-Chamber-of-Commerce.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=5msfu-TpmGA

2010-11-23T21:31:00.000-05:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Happy-Thanksgiving-from-Lowell-Area-Chamber-of-Commerce.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=5msfu-TpmGA

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Christmas-Through-Lowell.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=bXJjxjju4ZE

2010-11-04T17:40:00.000-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Christmas-Through-Lowell.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=bXJjxjju4ZE

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Annual-Garland-and-Wreath-Sale.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=0mT_B0RWyMI

2010-10-01T14:56:00.000-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Annual-Garland-and-Wreath-Sale.html?soid=1101498358305&aid=0mT_B0RWyMI

Pink Arrow Pride.

2010-09-10T10:53:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6c9ODFloTL0

Another reason to be proud of Lowell.

'Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce September'

2010-08-25T09:13:00.000-04:00

'Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce September'

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-08-19T12:06:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

'Business After Hours'

2010-08-11T14:21:00.000-04:00

'Business After Hours'

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-08-11T11:37:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

'Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce July News'

2010-08-06T13:47:00.000-04:00

'Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce July News'

2010-08-05T13:39:00.001-04:00

Don't forget to shop the Lowell Area Farmers' Market today, no market next due to Fair!

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-08-04T22:54:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-07-29T18:21:00.001-04:00

Join us in Historic Lowell for Jimmie Stagger at the Showboat Sizzlin' Summer Concerts! 7 PM. You have time!

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-07-27T18:24:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-07-22T06:58:00.001-04:00

Grand River Expedition Group stops for lunch in Historic Lowell today. Should arrive around 12 noon at Grand River Boat Launch

2010-07-22T06:55:00.001-04:00

Showboat Sizzlin Summer Concerts in Historic Lowell tonight 7-9 pm on the Riverwalk featuring the River City Jazz Ensemble.

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-07-20T23:14:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

'Breakfas Club and other news'

2010-07-14T16:11:00.000-04:00

'Breakfas Club and other news'

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-07-14T07:50:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-07-10T09:56:00.001-04:00

Join us in Historic Lowell for 16th Annual Riverwalk Festival. Call 897-9161 or www.riverwalkfestival.org

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-06-30T11:27:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-06-22T08:30:00.000-04:00

'What's Happening in Lowell the Next Place to Be!'

2010-06-22T06:50:00.001-04:00

Every Thursday, 2 pm to 7 pm
Lowell Fairgrounds this Thursday:
Michigan Strawberries, Raspberries & Blueberries, Sweet Red Cherries!

2010-06-17T17:34:00.001-04:00

It's not too late to spend the Night in Lowell the Next Place to Be for sizzlin hot time with Bronk Bros. 7 to 9 pm Lowell Showboat

'Breakfas Club and other news'

2010-06-15T09:28:00.000-04:00

'Breakfas Club and other news'

2010-06-10T07:34:00.001-04:00

More info Lowell Area Farmers Market
http://ping.fm/O8pLW

2010-06-10T07:32:00.001-04:00

Lowell Area Farmers Market today 2 to 7 pm, fairgrounds. Mi Strawberries & Lettuce. Baked goods and great healthy food!

2010-06-07T21:30:00.001-04:00

Christmas Through Lowell Rules & Regs
http://ping.fm/fhrZb

2010-06-07T21:28:00.001-04:00

Christmas Through Lowell applications
http://ping.fm/9jyCK

2010-06-07T21:25:00.001-04:00

Business After Hours http://ping.fm/nHiiO

2010-06-07T21:19:00.001-04:00

Business After Hours, Thurs., June 10, 5:30 pm at Tyler Creek Golf Course. Check all the details at http://ping.fm/rR0HZ

2010-05-27T22:36:00.001-04:00

We are pretty sure that we spotted the Lowell Troll, you know the one that has not been seen, leaving Lowell tonight for the Holiday Weekend?

2010-05-27T22:32:00.001-04:00

BBQ anyone? Join us the Pauly's Brew BQ on July 9 & 10 at the Lowell Fairgrounds. www.riverwalkfestival.org

2010-05-26T22:42:00.001-04:00

Seeking talanted artists with unique work for the Riverwalk Festival. Check www.riverwalkfestival for application.

2010-05-25T07:46:00.001-04:00

Don't forget to watch eightWest today, 11 am to 12 noon. Lowell, Trolls and Amy Hayes! Who could ask for more!

2010-05-22T13:16:00.001-04:00

We had around 70 lucky kids at the Troll Giveaway this am. Watch for pictures to follow soon.

2010-05-20T22:16:00.001-04:00

What a great day, check out our special on eightWest, next Tuesday, 11 am to 12 pm. Lowell the Next Place to Be!

2010-05-19T17:49:00.001-04:00

Eight West is coming to Lowell tomorrow! Enter to win weekly drawings for Bridge Bucks!http://ping.fm/AcG1k

2010-05-19T17:40:00.001-04:00

Great Breakfast Club with the Kent County Republications, next one at Self Serve Lumber
http://ping.fm/YtCPM

2010-05-18T22:31:00.001-04:00

Don't forget the Lowell Area Farmers' Market
Thursdays - May 13 – October 7
New time! 2 pm to 7 pm
Lowell Fairgrounds

For more information call Kent County Youth Fair Phone: (616) 897-6050
Market Master Ron Wenger (616) 292-9786

2010-05-18T22:28:00.001-04:00

Breakfast Club
Wednesday, May 19
East Kent County Republications, Chamber – 113 Riverwalk Plaza
7:30 am! See you in the morning

M-21 Bridge Project

2010-03-31T15:52:00.001-04:00

Single Lane Closure - Map - Mon 4/5/10, 7 AM to Fri 10/1/10, 7 PM

Westbound M-21 (Main Street) between Jackson Street and Hudson Street, in the city of Lowell.

Details: Westbound M-21 will be closed between Jackson Street and Hudson Street for bridge replacement over the Flat River beginning April 5 until October 1. Westbound M-21 traffic should follow the posted detour route. Eastbound M-21 traffic will be maintained throughout the project.
Detour: South (left) on Jackson Street to Grand River Drive. West (right) on Grand River Drive to Hudson Street. North (right) on Hudson Street to M-21.
Contact: Grand Rapids TSC 616-464-1800

Kent County

ReduceReuseRecycle

2010-03-23T22:01:00.001-04:00

Lowell e-Waste Collection Event at the 2009 Lowell Community Expo

Lowell High School Parking Lot ........ 9 am to 3 pm this Saturday, March 27
WHY?
Electronic waste ("e-Waste") is harmful to our environment.
When put in landfills, e-Waste can leak toxins into our soil
and water. You can help make a difference!
WHO?
Comprenew Environmental® is a Grand Rapids-based,
nonprofit electronics recycler. Comprenew inspires our community
to live and work in a sustainable manner.
This event gets you involved!
WHAT?
Free* recycling of your old computers, audio/visual
equipment, household electronics. Most anything with a cord or battery.
Basic data wipe of computer hard drives is included.
*Televisions are accepted with a $10.00 requested donation.
Acceptable Items include:
· Office & Household Electronics
(cell phones, radios, VCRs, DVD players, TVs, etc.)
· Computer Components & Accessories
(laptops, monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, speakers,
memory sticks, modems, power cords, etc.)

For more information about acceptable items,
call Comprenew Environmental® at 616.988.8282.

For more information about this event, call
the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce at 897-9161.
Compassionate Renewal of Our Vital Resources / www.comprenew.org

Kaleidoscope - The Greater Lowell Community Calendar
Click here for Events, Activities and Classes
happening in the
Greater Lowell Community!

Liz Baker
Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
www.discoverlowell.org

Lowell Community Expo

2010-03-23T21:59:00.001-04:00

Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Lowell Area Schools

Lowell Ledger/Lowell Litho
presents

14th Annual Lowell Community Expo

Lowell High School, Saturday, March 27, 2010 - One of the choice networking opportunities the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce offers our businesses, churches, schools, municipalities and organizations is the Annual Lowell Community Expo. Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Lowell Area Schools, and our exclusive business sponsor Lowell Ledger/Lowell Litho proudly present the 14th Annual Lowell Community Expo. The Expo is held at Lowell High School, Saturday, March 27 from 9 AM to 3:00 PM. (new time!) This event is an excellent opportunity for the community to increase their awareness of the products and services provided and/or manufactured in the Greater Lowell Area. Exhibitors also gain the opportunity to develop sales, sales leads and customer contacts. People attending the Expo will enjoy some of the following highlights.

The Expo will spotlight over 150 area businesses, service groups, churches and government agencies

Lowell Area Trailway "Connecting our Communities" capitol campaign announcement

Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce "M-21 Bridge Project & Trolls" announcement

Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce "recognition of 14 year Expo participants" annoucement

Comprenew environmental electronics ("e-waste") recycling drop off site

Free micro-fiber cleaning cloth with cleaning of glasses/sunglasses by Advance Eyecare Professionals

$2 Chair Massage by Trombly Chiropractic

Yoga Demonstration at 10:00 AM and an Exercise Demonstration for Building Core Strength at 1:00 PM provided by Dery Physical Ther

Body fat analysis for FREE and cholesterol test for $15, sponsored by the Lowell YMCA

Great Clips $5 haircuts

Lowell Light and Power Bucket Rides all day

Grooming demonstrations provided by Grand River Veterinary Hospital

Live demonstration of robot and displays presented by LAS Lowell Red Arrow Robotics Club

Entertainment is provided throughout the day

Visit with local area mascots

Door prizes raffled all day long

Food and beverages provided by Lowell Area Schools

Admission & parking is always free

56 Lowell Business Working Together

2010-03-23T21:56:00.002-04:00

A Big Shout Out and Thank You Kindly to all of the business owners who are participating in the Troll Project! As you can see, the list keeps growing, we are up to 56 now. They include:

Advanced Eyecare Professionals
AIC Insurance Services
All Weather Seal
Alliance Financial and Insurance
Arctic Inc. Heating & Cooling
Backwater Café
Ball's Softee Crème
Bernard's Ace Hardware
Canfield Plumbing & Heating Inc.
Chimera Design Fine Jewelry
Collector's Korner
Computer Rehab
Cousins' Hallmark/River Hollow
Curtis Cleaners
Curves for Women-Lowell
D & L Tax Service & Bookkeeping
Daisy Floral
Dery Physical Therapy Services PC
Digital Image Signs & Graphics
Dovetail Antiques
Edward Jones Investments
eja` Salon, Inc.
Fifth Third Bank
Fire and Water Art!
Firstbank
Flat River Cottage
Flat River Grill
Friends of the Englehardt Library
Gary's Country Meats
Glass House Designs
Harding Enterprises
Hearthstone Design Studio, LLC
Hunan Garden's La Te Da's
Huntington Bank
James E. Reagan D.D.S.
Keiser's
King Milling Company
L.A. Trim
Larkin's Fine Food & Cocktails
Lowell Area Arts Council
Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
Lowell Area Historical Museum
Lowell Beer Store
Lowell Showboat Garden Club
Modern Photographics
Nightforest Jewelry
Pep Talk
River Valley Credit Union
Rookies Sportcards Plus
Salon 206
Showboat Automotive
Sneaker's
Spring Training
Springrove Variety
The Hanger
YMCA - Lowell

ART Bridge!

2010-03-08T09:18:00.001-05:00

Artists -- of all levels!
ART Bridge!
June 21, 2010
1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Meet at 1:00 at Fire and Water ART
219 West Main in Lowell to spend a fun afternoon sketching and/or
photographing the under construction bridge in Lowell.
Secret spots have been identified and special arrangements have been made
for a wonderful drawing and/or photographic experience. Bring your own
materials and supplies, camera, chair, and sun hat. Rain or shine!
Reservations encouraged 616-890-1879 or via the contact page at
www.fire-and-water-art.com

Army Sgt. Lucas Beachnaw

2010-01-20T21:38:00.002-05:00

Arrival at the Kent County Airport
Thursday January 21, 9:30 am

Arrival in Lowell at Roth Gerst Funeral Home
Between 10:00 am and 11:00 am

Route from Airport to Roth Gerst Funeral Home
Exit airport onto North Bound Patterson Ave to 36th Street
East on 36th Street to East I-96
East Bound I-96 to Alden Nash Ave (no stopping along the highway)
North on Alden Nash name changes to Segwun then Hudson into the City of Lowell
Turn into Roth Gerst Funeral Home 305 North Hudson Lowell
(Parking is available at the Fairgrounds)

Visitation - Thursday, January 21, Ada Bible Church, 8899 Cascade Rd SE
2 pm to 4 pm
6 pm to 8 pm

Funeral Services - Friday, January 22, Ada Bible Church, 8899 Cascade Rd SE
10:30 am

Burial - St. Johns, Michigan

Funeral Arrangement by Roth Gerst Funeral Homes, Lowell, MI.

Business After Hours - Thursday January 14

2010-01-06T23:01:00.001-05:00

Business After Hours - Chamber Members
Thursday, January 14, 5:30 pm
The Hanger - 209 W Main St

Start your New Year in High Fashion!
Enjoy Muchies and Adult Beverage
Business Card Drawing

What is Social Media?

2010-01-06T22:56:00.001-05:00

What is Social Media?

Why use Social Media for my Business?

Can my Business benefit from Social Media?

Join Candice Fleszar and Steve Zaagman and learn

The Basics of getting into Social Media
Options in Social Media
Mistakes to avoid in Social Media
Candice Fleszar has nearly 20 years experience in public relations and media, including as a television news producer, Public Radio news reporter, and in corporate public relations - from local to international. She has led teams in creating corporate websites from scratch, worked with some of the top businesspeople in West Michigan, writes guest blogs for the Boston Globe's website Boston.com, and currently moderates Grand Rapids website MomsLikeMe.com. She lives in Lowell with her husband and four daughters.

Steve Zaagman Calvin College Grad with a Masters in Digital Media from National University. Worked for 8 years in video production as an editor, shooter, and writer. Currently employed at WZZM 13 as a Senior Promotions Producer and Digital Media Specialist. Steve also runs the largest swing dance group in the mid-west called the Grand Rapids Original Swing Society.

This is a free workshop, please RSVP to 897-9161 or info@lowellchamber.org
January 14, 2010
7:30 am
LAS Superintendents Office
300 High Street
Board Room

Lowell Michigan - 2009 Harvest Celebration

2009-10-08T07:15:00.003-04:00

The Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce presents a Harvest Celebration on October 10, 2009 from 9 AM into the night! What could be more fun than Lowell in October! We have a host of activities for you and the family to enjoy. Put on your walking shoes and enjoy the autumn air while visiting all the events throughout Historic Lowell! Start your morning off with the Family Fun Harvest Hustle Costume 5K Run/Walk sponsored by Lowell Community Wellness. The race will start at 8:30 AM sharp on Avery Street just north of the Lowell City Hall/Police Station. Run, walk or jog - have fun and get moving. Prizes will be awarded to race winners as well as best costume.

The Kent County Youth Fair and Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce together are sponsoring the Harvest Arts and Crafts, and the Flat River Antiques Show at the Lowell fairgrounds in the Foreman Building. Over 70 booths will be on display! The booths will open at 9 AM and remain open until 4 PM.

Concessions provided by Carolyn’s Popcorn and Great Lakes BBQ will be available starting at 10 am and well into the night at the Lowell Fairgrounds. A variety of foods include hot dogs, carmel corn, ice cones, pulled pork sandwiches, bbq beef and ribs!

Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides by Common Gentry Carriage Company will begin at 9 AM and run until 2 PM at the Lowell Fairground by the Farmer's Market Area. Take the kids for a ride, $5 per person.

Join us at the Lowell Area Farmers' Market and the Scarecrow Building Hoedown at the fairgrounds. We supply all the stuff to make a scarecrow for Main Street from 10 AM to 1 PM. We just need you and your creative juices! The scarecrows will be displayed in our Festival of Scarecrows in Historic Downtown Lowell through October 28th. At the Farmers' Market 10 AM to 2 PM you will find freshly picked foods from the garden along with all fall produce, apples, squash and decorations! The Lowell Wrestling team will kick off their pre-order Baked Apple Pie Sale and the featured entertainment will be Easy Idle Band from 10 am to noon.

Get a tour of Lowell Light & Power; meet the staff and board and enjoy free hotdogs, chips and beverages at their open house from 11 AM to 2 PM. Bucket rides for kids and Lowell Light and Power will help you and the family to learn about electrical safety on Broadway St.

Last year the Great Mini Pumpkin Chuckin' Contest ($20), presented by the Kent County Youth Fair was a huge hit; they are back again this year at 2 pm. They added Apple Chuckin' Contest ($5) for the kids at 12 pm. Both event contestants use a trebuchet designed to toss an apple or a 6" pumpkin. Don't miss the fun on these two family events!

Larkin's restaurant is hosting the 8th Annual Chili Madness Chili Cook-off. Several teams have put their cooking skills to the test! The cooking begins at 11 AM at Larkin's on Broadway Street. The tasting and judging will commence at 3 PM. Chili tasting wristbands for $6 and enjoy live music with "Homebrewed" while you flavor the taste of the chili! All funds raised will benefit LARA Lowell Trailway.

The Lowell Area Arts Council presents Ghost Stories along with LAS High School Orchestra presenting Creepy Classics! Come and hear open mic readings of original ghost stories written by members of the community along with "Creepy Classics" by members of the Lowell Area School's orchestra program lead by Wendy Tenney. This spooky fun will begin at 2 PM in the Reath Barn at the Lowell Fairgrounds.

Selected downtown merchants will have a harvest of sales and open houses. Jump start your Christmas shopping 10 am to 5 pm on Lowell's Historic Main Street.

Lastly Gilda's Club of Lowell will end our day with an Old Fashion Barn Dance Fundraiser in the Reath Barn at the Lowell Fairgrounds. Don't miss out on fun, dancing, entertainment provided by “Hawks and Owls string band” and food catered by Keiser's Kitchen. Tickets are priced at: Family - $25; Single adult - $10; Kids -$5. Bring the family and spend the day with us in Historic Lowell the Next Place to Be

Last Showboat Sizzlin' Summer Concert for 2009

2009-08-19T18:39:00.004-04:00

Crossroads Blues Band
Thursday, August 20th
7 pm to 9 pm
Downtown Historic Lowell
Riverwalk Plaza

This band appeals to a very diverse audience. One of the major factors contributing to the flexibility of the band is the diverse musical backgrounds of the members. Their interests range from straight up Jazz and Blues, to Tejano and Country, from Psychedelic to Rock and Roll. In a time where so many blues bands follow in the blues-rock footsteps of Stevie Ray Vaughan and ZZ Top, the Crossroads Blues Band refreshingly draws its influences from the likes of T-Bone Walker and Gatemouth Brown.From Texas-style jump blues to raucous Chicago blues shuffles and Detroit boogie-woogie...the band has all the bases covered. Crossroads Blues Band members include: Dave "Gator" Allemang (lead Guitar, Harp, Vocals), “Dangerous" Doug Olson (Bass Guitar, Vocals), "Slammin Sammy" Glen Giordano (Drums and Percussion), and Eddie "Blue" Lester (Tenor and Alto Sax, Percussion, Vocals).

Admission and parking is FREE. The concert venue is wheelchair accessible and handicap/senior parking is available. Bleacher seating is also available along with room for your own comfy folding chair. The Flat River Grill offers a cash bar and food on the Lowell Showboat along with the Lowell Lions Club who are set up on the Riverwalk Plaza.

Special Business After Hours at the Grand Volute

2009-08-19T18:36:00.002-04:00

Grand Volute Ballrooms
655 Lincoln Lake Ave SE, Lowell
5:30-7:30 p.m.

Come for cocktails and stay for business contacts!
Expand your business base at this Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce joint networking event.
With free parking, hors d'oeuvres, cocktails at a great deal, and networking with members from both Chambers
Business After Hours is a complimentary event for Grand Rapids Area and Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce members.
Questions & RSVP? Call the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce at 616.771.0341 or the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce at 616 . 897 . 9161

Chimera Design helping with Payton's Race.

2009-08-19T17:37:00.003-04:00

Sell your old gold to Chimera Design between now and September 12 - mention Payton's Race for a Cure and we will donate 10% of the value of your gold to that event. You can get cash for your old gold OR take a store credit (for 20% more than the cash price): Either way - Chimera Design will donate 10% to Payton.

In fact, if you mention "Payton's race" and make ANY purchase from us between today and September 12th, then Chimera will donate 10% of that purchase price to Payton.

Here is a link to the family friendly cool event on September 12: http://www.umdf.org/site/c.olKWL8MOIqG/b.5299349/k.BF6C/Home.htm

Pink Arrow - T-shirts, got yours?

2009-07-27T22:24:00.002-04:00

Shirts are $15.00. Names on the back are $10.00 for one name, $15 for two names, $20 for three names. The names are put on the back of the shirts to show awareness and honor friends, family and loved ones that have suffered from cancer. The shirt is your "ticket" into the Pink Arrow festivities starting at 2:30 pm on Sept. 11,2009 at Lowell High School. The event is including but not limited to:

Air bounce activities
Face Painting
Entertainment stage
Golf range
Side Walk Chalk
WBBL/Fox tailgate show105.7
Tennis game/match/activities
Cross Country meet
Volleyball match- first time ever for a outdoor sanctioned MHSAA volleyball game. If we have 5,000 people in attendance at 5pm, this will be a RECORD!!
Pink Arrow Parade
Pink Arrow Football game against Union High

If you please email or call Wendy Jeffrey. w.jeffrey@comcast.net 616-893-1615

Showboat Sizzlin' Summer Concert - Week #8

2009-07-27T22:20:00.003-04:00

July 2009
Lowell Showboat Sizzlin' Summer Concerts Week Number 8

THURSDAY, July 30th
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Root Doctor plays a diverse mix of classical soul and R & B, alongside traditional blues and inspired original material.The band has evolved through several incarnations, but the soul has remained the same. The current line-up is the strongest yet. Featuring Jim Alfredson (Hammond B3, keyboards & vocals), Greg Nagy (guitar & vocals), and Bobby Gardner (drums), Root Doctor continues to amaze audiences and wow critics.seventeen instruments plus a vocalist.

Riverwalk Festival 2009

2009-07-06T12:41:00.005-04:00

New for 2009, Lowell's 7th Annual Riverwalk Festival will be extended through Sunday, wrapping with an exciting new event - Pauly's Brew-B-Q Throw-down, a nationally sanctioned BBQ cook-off. Kicking off the Festival in Historic Lowell is the Thursday night Sizzlin' Summer Concert Series featuring Stolen Horses, a high-energy country rock band, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. on July 9. Local food vendors and the Showboat Cash Bar will be open for business along the Riverwalk. The evening of Friday, July 11 will bring more activities and entertainment. Beginning at 6:00 p.m., take a historic pontoon tour on the Flat River, do some late night shopping along Main Street and Historic Downtown or at The River Valley Credit Union Arts & Crafts, Antiques and Re-found Treasures sale, or find a book at the Englehardt
Friends of the Library Used Book Sale. Featured on Center Stage at 7:00 p.m. are the Lazy Blue Tunas, playing a variety of music by performers such as the Beatles, Bare-Naked Ladies and the Eagles. Enjoy a wide range of food from our vendors on the Avery Street walkway and a cash bar on the Lowell Showboat. Festivities will conclude for the evening at 9:00 p.m. The Festival continues on Saturday, July 11 beginning at 10:00 a.m. with arts and crafts, the used books sale, street entertainers, chainsaw art, and food booths. Compete in the Bill and Paul's Kayak and Canoe Race at 10:00 a.m. or enjoy kayak fun on the Flat River following the race. Bring your kids to the GOOD Chevy Buick Kidz Zone to play and get their face painted for just $1 each or attend the Lowell Community Wellness Health and Fitness fair. Line up along Main Street at 12:00 p.m. for the FROM the Heart Riverwalk Parade, benefiting Flat River Outreach Ministries. Parade spectators are encouraged to give from their hearts. Bring your non-perishable food items and toys to the parade and watch for the clowns to donate your gifts. And what parade doesn't have loud fire trucks, classic cars, and motorcycles? Automobiles entered in the 7th annual Brian Mead Memorial Cruise-In car show will tail the parade and "Rumble the Riverwalk" as they cruise down Main Street and show off their wheels. All cars in the show may be viewed at the 4-H Fairgrounds. Awards will be presented following the parade at 1:00 p.m. Shuttle rides will be provided by GOOD Chevy Buick to and from Downtown. Daytime entertainment includes the Laurels of Kent Pet Parade on N. Center Street. Enter your pet and bring smiles to the resident's faces! Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. The Lowell Fire Department will hold a Jaws of Life Demonstration at 2:30 p.m. - learn how victims get out of a smashed car - alive! And don't forget to stop at the Flush Tank, where famous Lowell personalities can be dunked - by you! Historic Pontoon Tours on the Flat River begin at 4:00 p.m. along with the Showboat Cash Bar. Center stage entertainment will feature Lowell's very own Alive & Well beginning at 5:00 p.m. and the Bronk Brothers will conclude the entertainment by 9:00 p.m. To wrap up the evening, make your way to Stoney Lakeside Park on Bowes Road where you can get a spectacular view of the Laurels of Kent Fireworks display starting at 10:15 p.m.For the first time in Riverwalk history, the Festival will continue through Sunday! Pauly's, teamed up with the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, is excited to announce the Sunday highlight of this year's annual Riverwalk Festival: Pauly's Brew-B-Q Throwdown! This Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned event, with a beer tent featuring Michigan craft brews, is one of almost 300 barbeque contests that take place throughout America - and this year, Lowell is one of those stops! As the world's largest organization of barbeque and grilling enthusiasts, the KCBS attracts contestants to compete in one or all four BBQ categories: chicken, ribs, pork butt, and brisket. Come down to the Lowell Fairgrounds to see what this BBQ competition is all about! The competition begins at 11:00 a.m. with awards at 3:30 p.m. The $1500 State Farm Insurance Duck Race will be held on the Grand River at 12:30 p.m. Adopt a duck for $2 or purchase 3 for $5, or purchase 10 for $10! The duck winner will receive $1000 and the following 5 ducks to finish the race will receive $100 each. The finish line is at the Grand River boat launch on the south end of the fairgrounds. You can purchase your duck tickets at designated locations in Lowell and at the Information Booth on the Riverwalk Plaza during the Festival. Don't forget: The Lowell Area Farmers' Market will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with fresh produce at the fairgrounds, the Beer and Cocktail Garden will be open for business, and entertainment will be provided by Bob Van Stee and Jimmie Stagger from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Come check it out all of the fun and entertainment for yourself in Lowell - the Next Place to Be!

Do You Think You Can BBQ?

2009-06-22T22:14:00.002-04:00

Lowell Riverwalk FestivalJuly 9-12, 2009

Then we want you to throw-down!

Pauly's, teamed up with the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, is excited to announce the Sunday (July 12) highlight of this year's annual Riverwalk Festival: Pauly's Brew-B-Q Throw-down!

This Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned event, with a beer & cocktail garden featuring Michigan craft brews, is one of almost 300 barbeque contests that take place throughout America - and this year, Lowell is one of those stops! As the world's largest organization of barbeque and grilling enthusiasts, the KCBS , LACC and Pauly's invite you to join the contest and show-off your BBQ skills.

The contest is broken down into four categories: chicken, ribs, pork butt, and brisket - compete in one or all four! The Grand Prize Winner will receive $1500 and cash prizes will be paid through 5th Place. To participate, you must submit an entrance form along with a $225 entrance fee to the LACC no later than July 7. For more information, check out www.riverwalkfestival.org/bbq.html or call Liz Baker, LACC at 616-897-9161 or Paul Faba, Pauly's at 616-897-2669.

But the fun doesn't stop there. The annual State Farm Duck Race will take place at Noon on the Grand River, and the Beer and Cocktail Garden will host live music featuring Jimmie Stagger and Bob Van Stee. The Lowell Area Farmers' Market and other commercial vendors will also be open. Mark your calendars: Sunday, July 12, 2009! If you think you can BBQ - then we want you!

www.riverwalkfestival.org
Liz BakerLowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Clowns, Classic Cars and Food Fight - Riverwalk Festival

2009-06-22T21:36:00.003-04:00

What do clowns, classic cars, and a food drive all have in common? They all play a key role in the FROM the Heart Riverwalk Parade. Highlighting the third day of the Lowell Riverwalk Festival, the parade will take place on Saturday, July 11 at Noon along Historic Main Street in Lowell. Benefiting the Flat River Outreach Ministries, parade spectators are encouraged to give from their hearts. Today's economic environment has left many families in need and without food, but you can help by participating in the North Lowell vs South Lowell "Food Fight". Bring your non-perishable food items and toys to the parade and watch for the clowns to donate your gifts. Can't make it to the parade? You may drop off your donation at anytime throughout the Riverwalk Festival at the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce and at least 49 other merchants and organizations throughout the Lowell Community. Click here for Parade Application. And what parade doesn't have loud fire trucks, classic cars, and motorcycles? Automobiles entered in the 7th annual Brian Mead Memorial Cruise-in will tail the parade and "Rumble the Riverwalk" as they cruise down Main Street and show off their wheels. Beginning at the Lowell Fairgrounds at 8:00 a.m. the morning of the parade, the Cruise-in is a car show in honor of the late Brian Mead, the show's originator. A number of awards, including $500 in cash prizes, will be presented at 1:00 p.m. at the Fairgrounds following the parade. Click here for Cruise-in application.

2009 Brian Mead Memorial Cruise-in Sponsors

Bieri Auto Body
Diamond Plate/Harding Enterprises
GOOD Chevrolet Buick
Grand Automotive Family
Harold Ziegler Ford
L.A. Trim
Showboat Automotive

Lowell Showboat Sizzlin' Summer Concerts - Concert #3

2009-06-22T21:30:00.005-04:00

Every Thursday June 11 through August 20
7 pm to 9 pm

Join us the Thursday night for the Sea Cruisers!
For over twenty years the Sea Cruisers have been making waves with fans of all ages everywhere they go. Playing the music of the 50's, 60's and 70's, they are sure to bring a smile to your face. They perform great rock & roll of artists like Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, Carl Perkins, Elvis, Dion and the Beatles, to name a few. Over the years this talented four piece band has worked with performers such as The Association, Chubby Checker, Pete Wittig and Tommy James and the Shondells.
If you like to dance to old time rock & roll or just sit back and enjoy the trip back in time you won't want to miss this evening of entertainment!
Admission and parking is FREE. The concert venue is wheelchair accessible and handicap/senior parking is available. Bleacher seating is also available along with room for your own comfy folding chair. The Flat River Grill offers a cash bar and food on the Lowell Showboat along with the Lowell Lions Club who are set up on the Riverwalk Plaza.

Next Weeks Show features Hark Up Rapid City Swing Band, Voices of Freedom & Blue water Ramblers. (Patriotic-Americana program)

Lowell Farmers Market - Great local produce and more

2009-06-16T15:30:00.002-04:00

If you haven't availed yourself of the Farmers Market every Thursday afternoon at the Fairgrounds - take my suggestion and get over there. We have been enjoying great asparagus and radishes - last week we brought home a big jar of honey.
Not only is the food as fresh as it can be, but you are keeping your food money in the LOCAL economy. Everybody WINS!
YUM - every Thursday from 3 to 7 at the Fairgrounds.

Ice in July - a fundraiser for the Lowell YMCA

2009-06-03T10:57:00.003-04:00

First ever event.
First ever BIG discount prices at Chimera Design.
What is it? A fundraiser for the Lowell YMCA Strong Kids Program put on by Chimera Design (we hope to make this an annual deal).
What is in it for the YMCA? We are donating 10% of the proceeds from our First Ever Charity Auction to them. We will also donate 10% of any sales made on merchandise that is not in the Auction during the 3 days of the auction.
What is in it for you? Well, we will have many fine pieces of jewelry, and about 20 watches, with opening bid prices of 40% to 50% or even as much as 60% off our normal prices. (If you have ever been in Chimera, you know we do not play the mark-it-up-to-mark-it-down game. These starting prices represent real savings.) You can get a look at some of the pieces that will be available during the auction and their starting prices on the Chimera Design blog: http://chimeradesignlowell.blogspot.com/search/label/Lowell%20YMCA%20fundraising%20auction

What is in it for Chimera? Well, we get to support the YMCA Strong Kids - with the current economic situation, more and more people are asking the Y to subsidize their kids activities. We don't want the Lowell Y to have to turn kids away from the great opportunities they have to offer. Also, we have been around for a few years now and we have some old inventory we would like to get out of our cases to make room for new creations.

Win - win - win.

The silent auction takes place July 16-18. 10-7 on Thursday and Friday and 10-2 on Saturday. Check the Chimera blog for more details or call the store 897-9480

Special Business After Hours - June 4

2009-06-01T10:25:00.002-04:00

Lowell Area Farmers' Market is back!

2009-05-11T08:20:00.002-04:00

Join us at the Lowell Farmers' Market beginning Thursday, May 14 and running through Thursday, October 8, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Lowell Fairgrounds. Opening day expect to find home grown plants, peas, cheese, fresh baked bread and much more!

The Lowell Area Farmers Market is here to serve the Greater Lowell Area by providing locally and regionally grown, fresh, high quality produce and products, and to provide an opportunity for local farmers, producers and artisans an economic outlet within the Greater Lowell Area

Lowell, MI - in the Movies!

2009-05-11T08:17:00.001-04:00

The latest update on the impact of America Saga Productions in West Michigan, specifically the town of Lowell, is featured on the WZZM website. If you'd like to learn more about MPFS helping Michigan vendors connect with Hollywood producers, click here to connect to the WZZM coverage on the film

East Kent County Republicans host Coffee at the Chamber 2nd Sat of the Month

2009-05-11T08:13:00.002-04:00

The East Kent County Republicans will meet on the second Saturday of every month at the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce from 8:30 am to 10:00 am. We will have the opportunity to discuss local, state and national issues with our elected officials joining us at this meeting time!
Contact: 897-6380 or 664-0759 for more details

Breakfast Club - May 20th

2009-05-11T08:09:00.002-04:00

Crystal Flash,over 50 years a family owned business!

Join us for Breakfast Club at the Chamber!

Breakfast goodies and coffee!
Learn about the services we can provide for your business or home
We supply home heat, commercial fuel and environmental service
Business Card Drawing

May 20th, 7:30 am at the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Business After Hours - May 14th

2009-05-11T08:02:00.003-04:00

Let Innereative Media put you in the driver's seat!

Learn about developing a "road map" to provide direction to your marketing
Pit Stop Provisions and Adult Beverages
Be Ready to "Race"
Wear your race gear and be entered in a special drawing

May 14th, at Innereative Media, 489 Pettis Ave, Ada, MI 29301

5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

2010 M-Dot Stakeholders Update Meeting

2009-04-20T21:29:00.004-04:00

The M-dot people are coming to town on Wednesday, April 22, 8 am at City Hall, 2nd floor, City Chamber.

This is an update meeting. M-dot will have some of the plans finalized for the 2010 Bridge Project. Take the time to get your questions or concerns answered.

See you there! For more info call Liz at 616-897-9161

Breakfast Club - May 20th with Crystal Flash of Lowell

2009-04-20T18:40:00.005-04:00

Breakfast Club - Wednesday - May 20th Crystal Flash @ the Chamber 7:30 a.m.

Saving Green, While Going Green!

2009-04-14T17:17:00.005-04:00

Lowell shoppers can help protect the environment, show their Lowell pride, and save money at a growing list of retail shops, restaurants, and service providers in Lowell.

The Lowell Marketing Committee recently purchased some re-usable canvas shopping bags with the logo: "Lowell - The Next Place to Be" in big letters on the side. The bags will make their debut during Girls Night Out on Thursday, April 16th from 5-9pm. The cost of the bags is $5.00, but they will pay for themselves many times over with the savings at participating businesses.

"We are very happy with the bags," said Marketing Committee member Cliff Yankovich. "They are roomy and sturdy. We are also very proud of the fact that they were produced in the US. We felt that was important in light of recent economic developments."
The vision for the bags was to accomplish several things at once and create a win-win situation. The first goal is to encourage local shopping and promote Lowell. Secondly, to lessen the number of plastic bags entering the waste stream by providing a good looking, re-usable bag. The added incentive for people to use, and re-use, the bags is that they can save 10% when they bring their bag into a growing list of retail shops, restaurants, and service providers in Lowell.

Participating members of the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce include: Advanced Eyecare, Chimera Design, Cousin's Hallmark and River Hollow, eja Salon, Flat River Grill, Glass House Designs, LowellAreaHistoricalMuseum, Larkins, Simple Pleasures, Springrove Variety, RollAwayFamilyFunCenter, The Hanger, and Wildflowers of Lowell.

Liz Baker, director of the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, said, "As the word gets out and these bags start appearing on the arms of Lowell shoppers we are hoping the list of participants will grow."

GIRLS' NIGHT OUT

2009-04-14T17:10:00.002-04:00

You have been waiting all winter for Girls' Night Out, well it's finally coming! Girls dig out those old prom, bridesmaid and evening dresses and wear them to Girls' Night Out. Don't forget your postcard and get 13 signatures to enter our grand prize drawing for Gift Bag filled with goodies from our participants. Don't have a postcard you can pick it up at merchants listed below.

AIC Insurance-219 E. Main Street Stop by and check out our new digs. Enjoy tasty hors dourves and cocktails!

All-Weather Seal-319 E. Main St Full staff on hand to answer questions about energy efficiency, the new tax incentive and building codes. Refreshments!

Chimera Design - 208 E Main St There will be store-wide savings.

Collectors Korner - 218 W Main St Come in & check out our great collections & jewelry, we pay more for your gold & metal scrap than anyone else guaranteed!

Cousin's Hallmark/River Hollow - 223 W Main St Free gifts with purchase, great new in-store specials. Refreshments!

eja' Salon - 204 W Main St $5 eyebrow waxes and $10 eye lash tint.

Fire and Water Art! - 219 W Main St Big prize drawing at 8:00 pm - must be present to win!

Flat River Cottage - 317 E Main St Drawings throughout the evening for unique gifts.

Flat River Grill - 201 E Main St 20% off regular priced appetizers and check out our "GNO" martini special

Glass House Designs - 215 W Main St Drawing for $25 gift certificate. Champagne and chocolate!

Hearthstone Design Studio - 218 E Main St Offering a 25% off discount on all in-stock displays, antiques and materials and supplies for the home.

Larkin's Fine Food & Cocktails - 301 W Main St Stop in for a $1 Barcadi Breezer and enjoy one of our $6 dinner selections (steak, chicken breast or shrimp)

Lowell Area Historical Museum - 325 W Main St10% discounts in the gift shop and 10% off on facility rentals

Modern Photographics - 104 W Main StLadies get your photo for free!

Pep Talk - 207 E Main St - 10% off storewide!

Rookies Sportcards Plus - 106 W Main St 20% Off Webkinz and Board Games!

Simple Pleasures Fine Bath & Body - 508 W Main StNew SPA Facial Line, new fragrances, gorgeous magnetic jewelry (custom fitted), specials throughout the store.

Springrove Variety - 123 W Main St 25% off entire store, excluding Count On Us items and Super Saver Yarn

The Hanger - 209 West Main St.Free gift with purchase!

Wildflowers of Lowell-214 E Main St20% off one item of your choice.

Reduce Reuse Recycle

2009-03-24T20:57:00.002-04:00

Coming to Expo, check to see if you have household electronics ("e-Waste") to get rid of! The Lowell Community Expo in cooperation with nonprofit recycler COMPRENEW® ENVIRONMENTAL will hold recycling event on SATURDAY, March 28 at Lowell High School from 9:00am to 3:30pm.

WHY? E-Waste is a major concern to our environment. Disposal of electronics becomes either toxicrefuse or recycled goods. You can help make a difference!

WHO?Comprenew Environmental is a Grand Rapids based nonprofit electronics recycler. Comprenew's mission is to inspire our community to live and work in a sustainable manner. Comprenew works with our community partners and school systems to accomplish this mission. This is a convenient way to do your part by recycling your e-Waste at the Lowell Community Expo.

WHAT?Household electronics may be dropped off at the Expo in the Lowell High School parking lot - look for the Comprenew truck! Most any item with a cord or battery will be accepted at no charge (TV's will have a requested donation of $10.00 per TV). Comprenew will wipe all computer hard drives and guarantee all items will be recycled and kept out of the landfill. Click here to see list of accepted items.

QUESTIONS?Call Comprenew Environmental at 616.988.8282

Lowell Community Expo

2009-03-24T20:51:00.002-04:00

Lowell Community Expo
Saturday, March 28
9:00 am to 3:30 pm
Lowell High School
11700 Vergennes

One of the choice networking opportunities the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce offers our businesses, churches, schools, municipalities and organizations is the Annual Lowell Community Expo. Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, Lowell Area Schools, and our exclusive business sponsor Firstbank of Lowell proudly present the 13th Annual Lowell Community Expo. The Expo is held at Lowell High School, Saturday, March 28 from 9 AM to 3:30 PM. This event is an excellent opportunity for the community to increase their awareness of the products and services provided and/or manufactured in the Greater Lowell Area. Exhibitors also gain the opportunity to develop sales, sales leads and customer contacts. People attending the Expo will enjoy some of the following highlights.

The Expo will spotlight over 150 area businesses, service groups, churches and government agencies

Lowell Area Trailway "Connecting our Communities" announcement

Comprenew environmental electronics ("e-waste") recycling drop off site. Click here to see what items are accepted

Arctic Heating & Air Conditioning presents a workshop at 11:30 a.m. on how to save money with geothermal heating and cooling systems and solar systems. They show you how to obtain big tax credits!

Lowell Community Wellness Weight Loss Challenge announcement and visit with Jodi Davis, walking ambassador for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

Arena Racing #1 car, sponsored by GOOD Chevy Buick. Free autographs from the driver Clayton Marvel, 9:00am to 12:00 pm

$5 eyebrow waxes by eja Salon
Passports sponsored by the City of Lowell

BIA testing, $5 and Cholesterol testing non fasting for $20, sponsored by the Lowell YMCA

Take the B.C. Pizza Challenge, $40, Consume a 20 inch pizza with 9 toppings weighing in at 5.9 lbs. from 1 pm to 2 pm in their booth. Eat the pizza win $200!

Great Clips $5 haircuts

Lowell Light and Power Bucket Rides all day

Entertainment is provided throughout the day

Visit with local area mascots

Door prizes raffled all day long

Food and beverages provided by Lowell Area Schools

Admission & parking is always free

See what's happening inside Lowell Area Schools. See what business and recreational opportunities are available in the Greater Lowell Area. If you are shopping for a new church or looking for a business to meet your needs, the Lowell Community Expo is for you. Join our community and find out why the Greater Lowell Area is one of the best places in West Michigan to raise a family or start a business. Lowell the Next Place to Be!

Local Photographer Nominated for Chicago Area Best of Photography

2009-02-24T12:50:00.005-05:00

Modern Photographics is proud to announce that they have been nominated for THE TIMES and SHORE Magazine Best of Photography. THE TIMES and SHORE Magazine are incredible publications with a huge following in the Lake Shore, and Chicago area.

Modern Photographics needs your help to be number one. Vote here for Modern Photographics to be BEST of Photography for Shore Magazine.

http://www.nwi.com/bestof/

Make sure you fill out the entire ballot to be registered to win $1500 in gift certificates.
Thanks for your support
Brandon Mulnix
Owner Modern Photographics

Jim White can really help your business save $$.

2009-01-15T17:26:00.002-05:00

I noticed that Jim White, from the Lowell Schools, is putting on another energy seminar for the Lowell Chamber.
If you want to save on your energy bills and make your carbon footprint a little smaller, then by all means go and pay attention to what Jim has to say.
We have followed several of his tips and I have noticed savings on our electric bill right away and we used less natural gas in December 2008 than we did in the same month of 2007 and I have to believe '08 was colder than '07.
Thanks go out to Jim and Lowell schools for sharing what they have learned.

Super Forest and the Millennium Seed Bank

2009-01-15T11:28:00.003-05:00

I want to tell you about a cool blog I found, Super Forest, and a cause they are all over.
The folks at Super Forest are raising $$ to help out the Millennium Seed Bank.What is that, you wonder?From Wikipedia:"The Millennium Seed Bank Project is an international conservation project coordinated by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Launched in the year 2000... its purpose is to provide an "insurance policy" against the extinction of plants in the wild by storing seeds for future use. The storage facilities consist of large underground frozen vaults preserving the world's largest collection of seeds.In April 2007 it banked its billionth seed, the Oxytenanthera abyssinica, a type of African bamboo."

Now you might be wondering why I have this on the Lowell blog. Well - in addition to being a jeweler, my wife Julie is a wonderful gardener and she is very concerned about all the genetic engineering and modification of seeds, so this is a subject near and dear to us. We grow our own vegetables and we support the Farmers Market every week and somehow I do believe all of this is related.

Anyhow, you can read about what SuperForest is doing here:http://www.superforest.org/2009/01/coalition-of-thrilling-save-seed.html

This link has a link you can follow to make a donation if you are so inclined:http://www.superforest.org/2008/12/millenium-seed-bank-is-in-trouble-what.html

Event Kick-Off Lowell Takes it off Vs Greenville

2009-01-04T20:06:00.011-05:00

A Great way to get off to a Healthier

2009

Lowell is getting ready to show Greenville about community spirit once again this year, 2009. This will be the 5th year of the Lowell Takes it off Program presented by Lowell Community Wellness. This year's event will again we held at Good Chevrolet Buick at 1250 W. Main Lowell. Our corporate partner this year is Blue Cross and Blue Sheild of Michigan. Who supporting our efforts to become healthier communities in 2009.

Register for this event is from 7:00am - 7:00pm Wed. January 7

Stop by Good Chevrolet Buick for some Kick off activities at 10:00am Blue Cross and Blue Sheild will be giving some things away, we will be welcoming our Friends from Unitied Lifestyles in Greenville, Dave Hildebrand our Rep. from Lansing and Jodi Davis the health and wellness ambassador for Blue Cross and Blue Shield will all be there along with many other city representatives from both Lowell and Greenville. Join the fun or just stop by to root for Lowell. Everyone is welcome. What do you have to lose?

for more information go to our website http://www.lowellcommunitywellness.org/ or call 616 340-7781

The Mission of Lowell Community Wellness is to Educate and Inspire the greater Lowell community to attain a healthier lifestyle.

Buy Michigan Now is a great website.

2009-01-01T08:03:00.000-05:00

Have you been to Buy Michigan Now? it is a great website that is all about supporting our state. They have tips on how you can focus your shopping and direct more money to support Michigan business.
There is a pledge you can take to support Michigan businesses. And they list all kinds of businesses with products made in our great state.
It really got me thinking and now when I shop for groceries or anything else, I start with the narrow focus of "how can I spend my money to best benefit my local economy", then I widen that to "regional economy", then I widen that to include anything in the state of Michigan.
Every little bit helps. It might cost a little bit more to buy something from a local provider than it does at a big box chain, but the local business owners are the ones who keep things afloat in YOUR neighborhood.
Check it out here: http://www.buymichigannow.com/

Another Elf, I think Santa is coming to Lowell

2008-12-04T14:25:00.003-05:00

Another Elf has been reported, he also is lurking around Lowell and will be in the parade on Saturday, December 6. The reports say that this Elf will riding with another Elf on something very interesting. Keep your eyes peeled and let us know if you see them. On another note the report said that they left the North Pole early, didn't finish making all the toys they promised! I guess at the present time they just might be on the naughty list, but I am sure they have an explanation.

Has anyone seen this Elf?

2008-12-03T20:42:00.004-05:00

This weekend perhaps you will see this Elf lurking about or riding something in our Annual Santa Parade! Make sure you come on Saturday, December 6, parade begins at 6:00 PM Sharp.

Lowell Christmas Festivities

2008-12-03T09:43:00.006-05:00

Join us Saturday, December 6 for our Annual Santa Parade and Christmas Festitivties!

Bundle up the youngsters and of course yourself so that you can enjoy the Michigan Weather.

Check the website for a complete schedule of fun things to do!

http://www.discoverlowell.org/

Suzie saved a house.

2008-11-20T04:23:00.002-05:00

I often walk to the Post Office to mail things. A few weeks ago I heard the sound of construction in the old blue house across the street from the PO and it made me smile. That house is really cool looking and it was great to see it getting the TLC it deserves instead of being demolished and becoming a cookie cutter new home or (yeesh) a parking lot.
Last night at a meeting of the Marketing committee I found out that Suzie Reinbold is behind the work there. Seems she bought the property and is going to restore it to its former beauty.
Most excellent! Can't wait to see how it turns out.

Chief Valentine will be missed!

2008-11-13T15:45:00.003-05:00

Chief Valentine has served the Lowell community for over 25 years and on January 5th will be taking a new job with Ionia County Central Dispatch. I can say it best by saying he was well loved and he will be missed.

He has done an incredible job in Lowell!

Backward Billboard Contest Winners and Entries

2008-11-07T07:55:00.003-05:00

The Marketing Committee met behind closed doors in a secret location on a dark fall night to determine the winning entries in the Backward Billboard Contest."We had a lot of fun picking the winners," explained Liz Baker, the Executive Director for the Lowell Chamber. "There were a lot of really great entries and there was a good deal of deliberation around the table as we went through them."
Contestants were invited to offer their best explanation for the Backward Billboard promoting Lowell as the Next Place to Be that was up on I-96 earlier this year. They were competing for a total of $1,000.00 Shop Lowell dollars. The certificates are good at any participating Lowell merchant. The merchants can then trade them back to the Chamber for the equivalent amount of money. The one thousand dollars in prize money is being underwritten by the Marketing Committee.

Liz Baker and the Marketing Committee would like to thank everyone who took the time to enter this fun contest. Check out the winners below and all the entries we recieved.

1st place - $500 Shop Lowell Gift Certificates
The Next Place to Be Lowell
Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear
Gil Brown – Lowell

2nd place - $300 Shop Lowell Gift Certificates
Whether you’re coming or going, Lowell is the next place to be
Andy Johnston – Lowell

3rd place - $200 Shop Lowell Gift Certificates
I am a former resident of Lowell. I have missed it ever since I have moved. To me, when you look in your rear view mirror and see that it's the place to be, I think " Heck yeah it is." It's the place where I have grown up and had started my family. By going past it and seeing it in my rearview makes me think, "That's where I should be" and makes me want to turn around. Maybe someday when things are settled for me, then I want to return there. It brings up a lot of great memories and warm feelings.
Mindy Bennett – former resident of Lowell, Cedar Springs

The following entries - Honorable Mention

Backwards or forwards, it’s plain to see, Lowell is the next best place to be!
A historic downtown, a forward Lowell west, Lowell’s country charm attracts the best!
A community of caring, culture and art, with excellent schools, which sets us apart!
Recreation and riverwalks, it’s no mystery, the backward sign was meant to be, Our little secret, “cause if you took a poll, Everyone, everywhere would move to LOWELL!!
Living & Loving Life in Lovely LOWELLL!!

If the sign can be read correctly, you are leaving the area and need to turn around. Lowell is the Place to Be.

The creators of the billboard were abducted by aliens who took them to an alternate dimension in which all things are the complete mirror image of ours. When they were returned it was very close to the deadline for the completion of the billboard. They created it while they were still disoriented from there “mirror-image” experience. Thus, part of the billboard ended up backwards

Come check out what were we thinking. Friendly people with hearts to greet you. Come walk our Main Street with its old building charm. Unique stores, home town shopping. We have it all, come check us out and stay awhile.

They were thinking a visit too Lowell is like going back to those wonderful days gone by and a memory you’ll cherish for life.

Really it's cause you don't forget something that was done wrong - people always have to critique with writing / calling / emailing who ever did it wrong. Great job, I'm sure you get lots of interesting voices / opinions on it.
My opinion is it really makes people talk about us and keeps the community alive! But we have the bestest community leaders too.

!dessim tsuj yeht tahw ees ot rorrim wiev raer eht ni kool nac srevird oS
So drivers can look in the rear view mirror to see what they just missed!

My first answer has to be that Cliff the all time "Prankster of the Universe" has something to do with it !!!!! But from a marketing point of view it is inspired !!!!! It gets folks talking about our wonderful community.

1.When see in a mirror it would be correct. A fun way to market.

2. Every one had such a fit that the board just past our exit had the original ad on it, so just to keep people talking3. It is an original Fresh and new idea4. Because Lizzy is the Best Our City could hope for . She has taken us places as a Community that I believe no one else could.

Clever marketing and a fun contest. As a family, we discussed the many reasons of the backwards billboard and came up with: Signing it backwards makes you realize that Lowell has been able to keep its "back-in-time charm" while continuing to be "the next place to be!". Many people will pronounce Lowell - Lo Well, and when you look at Lowell you still see Lle-Wol - much similarity. Our final thoughts are you see Lowell - it catches your attention, you look back in your mirror and see it is "The Next Place To Be!" - we are headed in the wrong direction and need to turn around - oops - we already see Lowell daily and love it's charm, it's small town appeal with the ability to grow without losing its roots. Maybe it's not "The Next Place To Be", but is "The Place To Be!".

Why on earth would some of Lowell's biggest fans make a mistake like having letters backwards on a Billboard?
To cover up the misspelled word, "Thinking".

Well, two things immediately came to mind…
1- Lowell is a forward thinking town. It is on the move. The chamber knew it needed to address the backward thinkers out there and show them what a great place Lowell is!
2- The other thought that followed it…my wife will not see this right? Lowell is a great town. Its biggest, newly discovered charm is its shopping area. Well, it is a proven fact that the majority of women spend a lot of time driving and looking into their rearview mirrors to touch up makeup, brush hair, constantly check their looks. Women also make up roughly 99.9% of shoppers. (Ok. Maybe an exaggeration)
It only stands to reason that the sign is backwards so that they women driving past the sign, looking into their rearview mirrors for makeup or whatever, will see the sign and be able to decipher its message and then go shop there. I am sure Lowell has a great body shop or two as well for the car in front of them that they will run into

It is a haunting reminder for those crazy enough to leave that the subsequent towns they visit will never measure up.

WOW The sign is wonderful..
When you see the sign it catches your eye right away and believe it or not you need to turn around if you missed it just to see it ... Did that make sense? Anyway the reason the sign was made like this. So that people will come and see the sign with the backward words and will be drawn to Lowell.
It is Big, I am from Fremont and I here people talking about the sign ... Good job to whomever thought of it.

I think the best reason for this billboard is:
Lowell is a fun and friendly place, and not only do the Lowell Marketing people want drivers/vehicles to know this, they want them to take a double take, look in their rear view mirrors, then do another double take. Maybe go so far as to come into Lowell and ask someone, “Did you know your billboard is messed up?” So overall, the marketing is brilliant because it is going to get Lowell attention in several different ways.
Great job marketing people…we all take notice and pull over when we see the word “Ambulance,” the right way in our rearview mirrors, so maybe more vehicles will take notice and pull into Lowell!

The great people on the Chamber of Commerce had a fabulous idea to get people talking, not just about the billboard, but about Lowell and it's fun shoppes, and their equally fun shoppe owners. What kind of people think to put a billboard backwards? Obviously FUN ones. Obviously CLEVER ones. Would you rather shop at dull stores, owned by people who put up billboards straight and 'normal' or would you rather shop at stores where they decide to do something totally unthinkable, something completely different than ANYONE out there. I know what my choice is. I'm Shopping Lowell!!

It looks good in your rearview mirror!
The graphics artist with dyxlexia was busy that day.
Extreme gravity near the billboard location.
Lack of Fiber.
Nobody noticed until it was too late.
Tight budget.
It was done in-house.
None of the below.
So it would look OK on the wrong side of the Expressway Exit!
Which part is backwards
I'm sorry, I thought it said,
"Exit 52. The best place to pe".
.......and what would you expect, if Exit 52 was just past Area 51?

BIllboard contest winners!!

2008-11-06T15:06:00.002-05:00

Was anyone able to help this poor man?

2008-11-04T16:00:00.004-05:00

This fella stopped in last week and was very, very concerned about his lost stapler. He kept asking if I had seen his stapler. When I suggested that it MIGHT be right there in his pocket, he seemed a little relieved, but we were concerned about his safety and well being.

Anyone else see this dude last Friday???

I must mention that his fashion sense was spot on. How daring - what a statement! The way the subtleties of the plaid were inflamed by the smiley faces. Wow!

Bridal Show- Lowell, MI Grand Volute Ballrooms

2008-10-27T23:21:00.002-04:00

Lowell are you ready for over 100 brides converging our our town with all their wedding dreams!!! It going to happen this Saturday from 10am-4pm at the Grand Volute Ballrooms.

The Yard signs are in place, 40,000 homes have received our beautiful fliers. Whats stopping you from telling someone that you know is getting married.

We have 34 vendors who are donating over $4500 in door prizes! The biggest so far are Free Wedding Photography, Free Wedding Planning Services, and more...

Check out http://www.lowellbridalshow.com

GNO - Lowell, MI

2008-10-22T21:29:00.005-04:00

The Annual Girls' Night Out was another hit in Historic Lowell. Several hundred ladies and even some males were seen walking from store to store! The merchant's had a great time also. Check out these ladies. They were just finishing up some appetizers and a beverage before hitting streets to explore and find all the goodies and bargins. I don't know if you noticed the one on the far left has a really ugly sweater!

Football Frenzy Food Drive

2008-10-21T23:35:00.004-04:00

A community member approached me last week about the possibility of having a Food Drive for the food pantry at the Flat River Outreach Ministries at the big Lowell vs EGR football game. I contacted a few people and with the help of many volunteers we are having just that.

Our Good Friends at Good Chevrolet Buick have stepped up in a big way.....promoting it in their ads this weekend in the buyers guide and also including it in some radio promotions they were planning to run in conjunction with the game on WBBL. Oh, I forgot to mention they are also suppling The Red and Black Dump truck to collect the many donations we are hoping to receive.

FROM and their food pantry provided food boxes for over 210 families in our greater Lowell community over the past month.If you are able please consider helping in this effort....if half of the 10,000 expected people donate that would be a huge amount of food to help meet the needs in our community. You can also help by spreading the word. Arrow pride works in amazing way.....but you already know that.

Spread the Word!

The truth behind GIANT discounts.

2008-10-16T17:07:00.003-04:00

I got into an interesting conversation with a young lady who works at a local restaurant today. She was asking how big of a discount we would be offering on the Australian opals, when I told her 30% (which is a big discount for us) she looked crestfallen.
She was used to seeing "sale" prices of 50-60 and even 70% percent off on jewelry at places in the mall and Meijers. Our offering of 30% seems weak in perspective.
So I asked her if she really thought they were taking 70% off their merchandise. She looked puzzled, so I asked if the place she worked would stay in business very long if they started selling a $7.00 sandwich for $2.10 or a pastry that was $1 for .30 cents. She quickly answered, "No way."
So I asked her if she really thought multimillion dollar companies who pay thousands of dollars every month for mall rent could afford to sell their products for 70% off. She recognized that a business REALLY offfering that kind of discount would not last long. Meijers did something like 176 million dollars of jewelry sales last year - believe me, they are making a big profit on the "fine" jewelry they sell at 40-50-and 70% off. To believe that a giant like Meijers could keep it's doors open offering 70% off is not very logical. Their overhead must be fantastic - I cannot imagine what it costs to heat, cool, and light those huge stores, never mind payroll and insurance!
To use the example of a sandwich with the young lady, I suggested that what they do is mark up the sandwich to $21 so they can put it "on sale" for $7; when in reality it is a $7 sandwich and they are charging full price for it. I have personally examined some of the jewelry sold at 50-70% off and can assure you that they represent no bargain. For example, some $1,000 diamond stud earrings that were sold for "only" $300 were such poor examples of diamonds that paying $300 for them was indeed paying full price. The lady who bought them compared them to a pair we were selling for $1,050.00 and immediately saw the difference. (She wanted big diamond stud earrings she could wear with pride.) She took the "bargain" pair back and bought ours.
I think the young lade from the local eatery might have caught on.
I hope so.
We we take 20% or 30% off for an event at our store, we do not raise the price to put it on sale - we are making 20-30% less on the item and it is coming out of our pockets. That is the case with most small town businesses - they don't crank the prices way up to put them on sale - rather they charge a fair price to begin with and any discount from that is truly a discount.
Simple - just do the math.

Lowell Bridal Show November 1st, 2008

2008-10-16T11:12:00.004-04:00

Many Lowell Merchants be at the Lowell Bridal Show on November 1st from 10am-4pm at the Grand Volute Ballrooms. Please come on out and register for a Free Wedding Package worth over $2300! Many door prizes will be available to win!

Lowell Bridal Show.com

Over 28 Vendors to meet and ask your wedding planning questions!

Gifting schemes are illegal.

2008-10-15T16:46:00.005-04:00

In the past several weeks there has been a lot of hub-bub on Main Street about a "gifting club" of women empowering women. Many people seemed to be unaware that these activities are against the law on both a state and federal level.
Here is a PDF alert from Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox on the subject of "gifting clubs" that should make it very clear that such money making devices are against the law.

"Michigan Attorney General Consumer Alerts are available at www.michigan.gov/ag
Toll free 1-877-765-8388

CONSUMER ALERT MIKE COX, ATTORNEY GENERAL
The Attorney General provides Consumer Alerts to inform the public of unfair, misleading, or deceptive business practices, and to provide information and guidance on other issues of concern.

CASH GIFTING SCHEMES
Local police departments and the Attorney General's Office have noticed a recent surge in inquiries regarding cash gifting schemes. These schemes are presented in an endless variety of ways – including schemes targeting NASCAR fans, or "socially conscious women." No matter how these schemes are presented, the bottom line is the same for all – cash gifting schemes are illegal in Michigan. This consumer alert will provide Michigan consumers with information on how to spot illegal cash gifting scams, and what to do if they believe one of these scams is operating in Michigan.

PYRAMID SCHEMES ARE ILLEGAL IN MICHIGAN
Section 28 of the Michigan Franchise Investment Law (MCL 445.1501 et seq.) makes pyramids illegal in Michigan. The statute reads in part: [a] person may not offer or sell any form of participation in a pyramid or chain promotion. A pyramid or chain promotion is any plan or scheme or device by which (a) a participant gives a valuable consideration for the opportunity to receive compensation or things of value in return for inducing other persons to become participants in the program or (b) a participant is to receive compensation when a person introduced by the participant introduces one or more additional persons into participation in the plan, each of whom receives the same or similar right, privilege, license, chance, or opportunity.

Essentially, a pyramid is a scheme in which participants receive compensation for recruiting other participants.

Violations of Section 28 of the Michigan Franchise Investment Law are a felony, punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 or seven years in prison.
MULTI-LEVEL MARKETING PLANS VS. PYRAMID SCHEMES – WHAT IS
THE DIFFERENCE?
Multi-level marketing plans typically involve a parent company that sells products to consumers through independent sales people. Generally, independent sales people do not receive a salary - rather, they are compensated based on the amount of product that they sell. Multi-level marketing plans are generally legal in Michigan. The key difference between a legal multi-level marketing plan and an illegal pyramid scheme is that a multi-level marketing plan bases compensation almost entirely on the amount of product sold, whereas an illegal pyramid scheme is based on the amount of people recruited.

CASH GIFTING – JUST ANOTHER TYPE OF PYRAMID

Cash gifting schemes are the quintessential example of a pyramid scheme. Instead of selling products, cash gifting schemes forego the sale of products and just give people cash, but the premise is the same – like other pyramids, cash gifting schemes are based on the amount of people recruited.
Generally, these gifting "circles," "clubs," or "groups" encourage participants to pay a substantial entry fee (which can range anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more). This entry fee will guarantee the participants a place on a chart of members. The participants will move on the chart every time they recruit more people into the "circle" or "club." And once the participant moves enough on the chart, they are "guaranteed" a large payout. Gifting schemes operate under a variety of names, as con artists that start these schemes are endlessly creative in their quest to con a lot of people out of a lot of money.
But most gifting schemes follow the general pattern outlined in this alert.
Pyramid schemes, including cash gifting schemes, can become popular very quickly, because early participants often receive their payout as promised. Those participants that receive their money then relay their success stories to prospective participants, and the cycle continues. The problem is that eventually the pool of new participants runs out, and the pyramid collapses, and very few participants actually receive any money. Once a pyramid collapses, everyone, except the initial con artist that started the scam, will have limited prospect of ever getting their money back.

I'VE BEEN ASKED TO JOIN A GIFTING SCHEME – WHAT SHOULD I DO?
In Michigan, prosecutions of cash gifting schemes are generally handled by local prosecutors. Michigan consumers who have been asked to join a gifting scheme, or who are aware of a pyramid or gifting scheme operating in their area, should contact their local police department, county sheriff's office, or local prosecutor.

If you are currently involved in a gifting scheme, you should consider contacting a private attorney. For help in finding a private attorney, please visit the Michigan State Bar's website, at http://www.michbar.org, for information on finding a Lawyer Referral Service in your area. Along with violations of the Michigan Franchise Investment Law, charges under other state statutes are also possible.

Finally, if you are currently involved in a gifting scheme, or have participated in a gifting scheme in the past, keep in mind that you are also required to report any earnings you received to the Internal Revenue Service. Despite any promises made to you by those operating cash gifting schemes, earnings received from a gifting pyramid are taxable. Thus, in addition to consulting a private attorney, you should also consider speaking to a professional tax advisor about your situation.

Girls' Night Out - Ugly Sweater Party

2008-10-15T12:58:00.003-04:00

Wear you ugly sweater for Girls Night Out. No contest, just plain fun. Check out all the merchants specials below and make sure you bring your postcard. Need 13 signatures to be elgible to win the Grand Prize.

Chimera Design - 208 E Main St
Check out the Australian Black Opal Show

Collectors Korner - 218 W Main St
Come in & check out our great collections & jewelry, we pay more for your gold & metal scrap than anyone else guaranteed!

Cousin’s Hallmark/River Hollow - 223 W Main St
Free gifts with purchase, in store specials. Refreshments!

Daisy Floral & Gifts - 505 W Main St
Free carnations to first 100 ladies, purse party and drawing for fall wreath $65 value!

eja' Salon - 204 W Main St
$5 eyebrow waxes .

Fire and Water Art! - 219 W Main St
Drawing at 8:30 pm - must be present to win! Fresh flowers—while they last!

Flat River Cottage - 317 E Main St
Drawings for Giveaways.

Flat River Grill - 201 E Main St
20% off all drinks

Glass House Designs - 215 W Main St
Champagne & chocolate ! Drawing for a set of artist created wine glasses ($160 value)

Hearthstone Design Studio - 218 E Main St
25% off all in stock and display items!

L4 Boutique – 216 E Main St
New original Blues Sweaters, Tummy Tuck Jeans and Dress Pants. Drawing for free jeans.

Larkin’s Fine Food & Cocktails—301 W Main St
Specials for the Girls, enjoy a Petite Sizzler while sipping on a Pink Martini 15% off the regular price!

Lowell Area Historical Museum—325 W Main St
10% discount on gift shop.

Modern Photographics - 104 W Main St
Drawing for Free Family Portrait Package worth $300!

Pep Talk - 207 E Main St
Buy 2 items, get 3rd item 50% off

Rookies Sportcards Plus - 106 W Main St
20% Off Webkinz and Board Games!

Simple Pleasures Fine Bath & Body - 508 W Main St
Over 58 fragrances to choose from! Food, two new products ya got to have!

Springrove Variety - 123 W Main St
25% off entire store, excluding Count On Us items

The Backyard Boutique/The Lily Pad Candle Shoppe - 219 E Main St
Snacks and Specials!

The Hanger - 209 West Main St.
Hot Clothes … Cool Prices along with Hot Munchies … Cool Drinks and of course … Hot Sales … Cool on your Wallet!

Wildflowers by Wildwood—214 E Main St
20% off Fall Merchandise (excluding candles)

Harvest Celebration Scarecrows and Cook-off

2008-10-15T12:43:00.009-04:00

The Lowell Harvest Celebration was a great day! The town was bustling over with people.

Below are shots from our Scarecrow Building Hoedown and Larkin's Chili Madness Chili Cook-off. By the way our team from Chamber didn't win again this year, but they sure had fun!

Take a look at the Chamber Team! Thanks Evert, Mark and Alan, see you next year on Saturday October 10, 2009.

Harvest Hustle Family Fun 5K Walk/Run

2008-10-05T22:04:00.004-04:00

Greetings,

Fall is finally here and the Lowell Harvest Celebration and it's events are just around the corner. Saturday October 11th, the Harvest Hustle Family Fun 5K Walk /Run is the Kick off event of the celebration. Registration begins at 8:00 am in the Lowell City Hall garage along Avery street. The 5 K will start at 9:00 am. The focus of this years event is to encourage individuals and families to be physically active. Registration is $10 for adults, $5 for students and $25 for a family. This years event is a fun run with many door prizes and fun things planned. Proceeds from this event will help Lowell Community Welllness to fund future health and wellness programs in the greater Lowell Community. thank you for your continued support

to download the registration form go to: www.lowellcommunitywellness.org
see the Event Calendar look for the walking pumpkin

When you shop local the money stays local.

2008-10-03T10:53:00.003-04:00

According to an economic impact study by the group Local First when you spend $100 at a locally owned business $68 stays in the local economy and $32 leaves town. When you spend the same $100 at a business that is not locally owned only $43 stays while the other $57 leaves town.

They estimate if consumers shifted 10% of their spending from non-locally owned to locally owned businesses that could create 1,600 jobs in West Michigan that would pay $53 million in wages.

Shop Local folks - it will benefit everybody.
http://localfirst.com/

Women's Night Out

2008-10-01T17:05:00.002-04:00

As fall Approaches we start to bring out last years clothing....

Please Wear your Ugly Sweater on October 16th- 5 to 9 for Girls Night Out!

Share your favorite Girls Night out Story in the Comments below!