Hats off to Joseph Letavis

Flag Day is celebrated today. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened this day by resolution of the Second Continental Congress in 1777.

One local boy scout came up with a way to commemorate the day. Joseph Letavis approached the city some months ago about constructing a Flag Retirement Area within the city.

Since that time, he accepted donations from individuals and businesses around the community and along with his family, friends and his troop, built a beautiful landscaped area north off of Fortino Drive near the police department and across from the Veteran's Memorial.

The area was christened last night with the first flag retirement ceremony. It was a very solemn event that drew a nice crowd. The ceremony began with the flags being torn (stars from stripes) along with a scripted message about the history of the flag. Attendees were then invited to drape pieces of the flag in the constructed fire pit to officially retire the flag.

It is young men like Joseph Letavis who help to make this city a better place.

Thank you, Joe.

New Meijer Store

A few people have asked me over the past couple of days when the new Meijer store will begin construction.

The plan, as I understand it, is to begin construction in spring of 2009 with an expected completion date of fall of 2010.

The city council granted approval for this store last year but since that time, Meijer has shown interest in downsizing what was originally approved. They'll be back before council to present a new plan, hopefully soon.

Hometown Days Parade

What a great parade in downtown Swartz Creek yesterday! Wanda Cummings and her crew did a great job putting together this annual event. I've attended this parade for the past 8 years and I think this was the largest crowd we've ever had. It didn't take long to pass out 9 large bags of candy (probably needed more) to the children along the route.

I'm sure next year's event will be even bigger and better.