- As construction started it was realized that the entire water main needed to be replaced which was unanticipated; therefore, all roadways in the project had to be tore up to replace the water main before construction could continue.

- Contractors are still anticipating a project completion date by July 3

This year, shop at over 30 arts and crafts vendors, enjoy live music from local talent, watch skateboard demonstrations and visit the Allegan Public Library for a book sale.

"We will have a wide variety of arts and crafts this year including a juried art selection for fine art enthusiasts," said Mark Horn, event director.

  Locust Street will be roaring as motorcycles line the street for the Allegan Old Iron Bridge Motorcycle Show on May 26^th from 11:00 am - 3:30 pm.  This family friendly event will showcase motorcycles from around the state and beyond.  Taking place during Memorial Day weekend the show is a great way to celebrate the weekend and honor service men and women. 

The show consists of 11 classes of competition for all types of bikes.  Plus, a variety of vendors and an event DJ will be at the event and there will be activities for the family.  Divine Leather will be on site offering more than 600 square feet of coats, chaps, vests, saddle bags and other leather goods.  Children will be able to get their pictures taken on a motorcycle by a professional photographer as a keepsake from the event.   In addition, attendees of all ages have the opportunity to win a variety of door prizes.

Event coordinator, Rick Smith of the Downtown Bakery and Deli, says, "The show will showcase a variety of bikes ranging from Harleys to choppers and will be fun for the entire family to see these works of art along the streets of Downtown Allegan."

The day of the event many of the local shops, restaurants and other businesses will be open and some are offering specials for the event.  At 4:00 pm the Regent Theatre is featuring a special showing of the movie, The World's Fastest Indian.

"Motorcycling is very popular in this area and I wanted to showcase our bikes while demonstrating that motorcycling is an activity the entire family can enjoy," replied Smith.  Smith, who has been riding since age 9, and his family have toured the United States on their motorcycles.

If you would like to register your bike for the event, please visit www.oldironbridgemotorcycleshow.com.  Registration for the event is free to all cyclists and can be done in advance at the website.  The website also contains information about the show and the different competition classes.  Tom Garbe, of Drifter Cycle, will lead the judging for the event along with several other judges. 

"I anticipate a large turnout for the event.  I would love to fill all of Locust Street with motorcycles," said Smith.

Each week a different PG or G rated film will be featured.  This summer's lineup promises to bring lots of smiles and giggles to the audience.  The schedule includes Happy Feet, Charlotte's Web, Night at the Museum and many more.  For a complete lineup of the movies and when they will be shown, please click here.

So, this summer, when the kids are looking for something to do, bring them to The Regent Theatre for a free show.  Remember, the popcorn is always fresh at The Regent.

Deb and Joe Leverence have been busy remodeling a historic two-story building located at 148 Kent Street in the Milling District.  A few weeks ago, a new roof was put on the building after removing the old roof with a crane. 

Remodeling continues inside with an almost completed bathroom in the lower level, the walls in the artist studios are being framed and wiring and electrical work will start this month. 

Once completed, 148 Kent Street will have been transformed into a working fiber studio and gallery.  The lower level of the studio will also feature working space for artists allowing others to showcase their artwork.  Deb Leverence is a Fiber Artist and will be able to weave, spin and sew at the studio and customers will be able to come and make their own rugs on a loom.

The projected date of opening is scheduled for October 1; however, a lot of construction and remodeling still needs to be done.  Look for future updates on this project in the Downtown Connector. 

"The City of Allegan is overlooked and underutilized," say local merchants Ron and Deb Kerkstra of Creative Events.  "There are unlimited opportunities for business here if you just look right in front of you.  With Allegan's history, beautiful architecture, and charm, how could you not want to invest in its future?"

Creative Events will remain open at 241 Hubbard through June 23 and reopen its new doors at 128 Locust on June 30.  Call, 269.686.7602, with any questions.