Tree Removal, Trimming & stump grinding. Fully insured. Over 30 years experience in tree work, very reliable and reasonable. Free estimates. Also, firewood for sale! RC Tree Service, owned and operated by Carl Sparks (269)377-0284 or (269)568-7231 Randy. www.rctreeservice.com
E and N Services (269)680-1550 Lawn care, spring cleanup, landscaping, retaining walls, land clearing, power washing, painting, general hauling, tree and bush trimming. Commercial/residential. Fully insured ennservices49080@yahoo.com
Home Improvement
Jeffrey B. Hoyt, Builder, (269)760-0035. All your building needs, no job too big or small. Licensed/insured. Senior discount.
CLASSIFIED DEADLINE: THURSDAYS 3:30PM DISPLAY AD DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY 5:00PM
Pole Barns: We Build All Year Long! Built best barns in a rush? Call us! Best quality, best service. Now in our 25th year! Over 4,000 buildings in Michigan. Licensed/insured. Call for quotes: 989-205-2534
Monty’s Tree Service: Licensed/insured. Free estimates (269)204-8207
Metal Roofing Regular and shingle style, Half off special colors! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles. Vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders for 40 years. Amish crew. 517-575-3695
or in person at the Community Shoppers Guide, downtown Otsego
time and money. Shop Davals for the best selection, best quality, best price. You have to see it to believe it. We are truly a destination place and worth the drive. We buy estates. Layaway terms available. Visa/Mastercard/Discover accepted. 2 miles west of Hastings at 2084 W. M-43 Hwy near Bob’s Gun & Tackle. Hours: Sun. 12-5pm; Mon.-Fri. 10am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm. (269)948-2463.
Omaha Steaks Wines. 12 world class wines (and bonus gifts) for ONLY $79.99 (plus s/h.) Save $160! 12 new wine selections plus a FREE $25 Omaha Steaks E-reward card every three months. Cancel anytime. 100% guarantee! Call 1-833-652-3787 and mention code AGJF002 or visit our website www.GetOSWine.com/sip134
E and N Services (269)680-1550 Lawn care, spring cleanup, landscaping, retaining walls, land clearing, power washing, painting, general hauling, tree and bush trimming. Commercial/residential. Fully insured ennservices49080@yahoo.com
Health/Fitness
Attention Oxygen Therapy Users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. Call 888-815-6233
Auctions
Epic Spring Firearms Auction, 10 a.m., Sat, March 15. Long guns, Handguns, ammo, sporting collectibles, and more! Questions? Call 517-927-5028.View the catalog and bid at EpicAuctionsAndEstateSales.com.
Firearms & More Online Auction bidding now open through March 18. Rifles, handguns, shotguns, ammo, knives, bows & more. FN Herstal, Beretta, Browning, Weatherby, S&W, Kimber, Remington. 313-600-5451. Bid at BiditMi.com
Weekly Online Auctions Trucks, cars, collectibles, vintage toys, comics, trading cards, knifes, blacksmith tools, Depression glass, antiques & much more! Go online to bid at Bid.SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC.com. See catalogs. Questions? Call 1-800-835-0495.
Welcome Otsego Dunkin'
Otsego Dunkin' held its Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Owner Dan McGue has been in this business for over thirty years. He says, "We are in the business of making people happy. It'ssimple - great coffee and great donuts! We make this happen through an exceptional experience between our team and our guests." Dunkin' Donuts started in 1950 asa donut shop and has evolved into America's favorite coffee brand. “America runs on Dunkin'.” This location is open from 5:00am-9:00pm, with the lobby closing at 7:00pm. Stop by for a fresh cup of coffee and some donuts at 1314 M-89, Plainwell. (269)204-6009.
Don’t Forget to clear out enough around your mailbox for your mail/paper carrier to be able to pull up & out with their vehicle.
Services
Quality Built Pole Buildings. Built year round! All sizes, options available! Financing Available! C.L. Kruithoff Building Company, Lic./Insured. Call (269)217-3850 www.pole-barns.com
Powerwashing, Replacement Windows, doors, and roofing. Call Farmer Construction. Local Builder. Check us out on Facebook 269-420-9748.
Drywall: New Construction, remodels, repair work.Fully insured.Over 38 years experience. Tom Teunessen (616)218-2877
The Brake Doctor Mobile Service. 90% cheaper than the garage! We will come to you! Call (269)330-1767 or (269)330-6412.
Monty’s Tree Service: Licensed/insured. Free estimates (269)204-8207
Concrete Flatwork: For all your concrete flatwork needs! Pole barn, floors, driveways, driveway replacement, sidewalks, patios. Bobcat services available. (269)509-2153
Swegles Handyman Service: Roofing, plumbing, decks, all home repairs. Insured, quality work. 269-243-0468
Consignment Clothing Pennies on the dollar at Bushel & A Peck! Everything must go! 130 N. Main St., Plainwell. (269)225-1108
Rogers Plumbing, Heating & A/C Service, Inc. Call the company that’s local & experienced. Serving this area since 1966, licensed and insured. 269-694-4673, 269-217-5454
Let Your Favorite Business Know... you saw their ad in the Shoppers Guide. Shop local!
Scott Keyzer Roofing: Call Scottfor all your roofing, gutter screen installation and repair needs. Free estimates (269)929-3149
Tree Removal, Trimming & stump grinding. Fully insured. Over 30 years experience in tree work, very reliable and reasonable. Free estimates. Also, firewood for sale! RC Tree Service, owned and operated by Carl Sparks (269)377-0284 or (269)568-7231 Randy. www.rctreeservice.com
Expert Cleaning Services, since 1985. Christian business, expanding and hiring. Commercial/residential. Free estimates! (269)349-1414 calltheexperts.com
Quality Clock Repair. House calls on Grandfather clocks, free pickup & delivery of all others. Call Andrew Dirkse (616)990-8885.
or services advertised. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you who ask for money in advance of delivery of the goods or services advertised.
Missing a Flyer or an Insert that you would like to see included with our paper? Contact that store directly & let them know!
Vehicles For Sale
Donate Your Car, Truck, Boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a fast, free vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-691-4117 today!
2007 Ford F150 King Ranch: Runs good but has a bad frame. $3200 OBO 146,000 miles 269-501-0494
Tree & Brush Clearing, yard clean-up. Fallen tree and stump removal, tree cutting. Reliable and insured. (269)929-3149
Dan's Tree Service: Free estimates. Senior discount. Fully insured. (269)664–5455 or Matt (269)569-1031 www.danstreeinc.com Veteran-owned
We Buy Houses for Cash As Is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-855-504-0056
Acculevel. Your Foundation Repair and basement waterproofing experts. Whether basement, crawl space or concrete slab we’ll guide you on the right path to a healthy home. Act now! Up to $600 off. Restrictions apply. Call for a free consultation. 1-844-700-4986
E and N Services (269)680-1550 Lawn care, spring cleanup, landscaping, retaining walls, land clearing, power washing, painting, general hauling, tree and bush trimming. Commercial/residential. Fully insured ennservices49080@yahoo.com
“A life dedicated to fighting for others. Her legacy lives on in every heart she touched.”
With profound sadness, we annouce the passing of our beloved Mary Margaret Zack, who left us peacefully on March 1, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 43 years old. To know Mary was to love her. From her infectious smile to her lively spirit, she lit up every room she entered. Whether through her generosity, her sense of style, or her vibrant personality, Mary was larger than life in the most beautiful way. She was bold, creative, and loyal. Her personality was magnetic. A proud graduate of Michigan State University, Mary was a true Spartan fan, always sporting her green and white with immense pride. Professionally, Mary was a powerhouse. She spent 20 years in medical device, surgical, and pharmaceutical sales, consistently finishing as one of the top performers at each company she worked for. Year after year, she earned multiple Best in Class and Top Sales awards, admired for her dedication, expertise, and integrity. Above all, Mary had an unwavering passion for helping others. In 2018, she founded Justice for Otsego, becoming a powerful advocate for our hometown. For years, she fought tirelessly on behalf of our community, always striving to make a meaningful difference. Her commitment never wavered, and she remained devoted to her cause until the very end. Just last month, she was thrilled to learn that Justice for Otsego had received a $500,000 grant. The funding will support the Otsego Story Project, which aims to document and honor the experiences and concerns of Otsego/Plainwell residents, while also collaborating with the community to identify sites and sources for environmental testing. Additionally, she was deeply moved to hear that a scholarship would be established in her name. For Mary, Justice for Otsego was more than just a passion project—it was her life’s work, and it will stand as her lasting legacy. Mary was an amazing daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and advocate. She leaves behind her loving parents, John and Ellen Zack, her sisters, Emily Bath (Michael) and Elizabeth Peterson (David), her cherished nieces and nephews, Avery, Anna, Evan and Bennett; and her beloved dog, Lorenzo. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, William and Elizabeth Gage, John and Lorraine Zack, Aunt, Lorraine McNally and Uncles, William Gage and David Gage. Though we mourn her loss, we take comfort in knowing that her faith and love of the Lord was strong, and she is finally at peace. Her legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was strong. She was resilient. She is finally healed. Friends may visit with Mary’s family from 3-6 PM, Saturday, March 8, 2025, and from 11AM – 1PM, Sunday, March 9, 2025, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 A.M., Monday, March 10, 2025, at St. Margaret Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Simon Manjooran officiating. Private family burial will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery in Grand Rapids. Contributions in memory of Mary may be directed to the Mary Zack Scholarship Fund, checks made out to Ellen Zack. Please mail donations directly to the funeral home, PO Box 165, Otsego, MI 49078.
Arrangements by Winkel Funeral Home - Otsego Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
Grace M. BLOWERS AGE 75 - OTSEGO, MI
Grace M. Blowers passed away peacefully, Saturday, March 1st, 2025, at her daughter’s home in Texas. She was born August 6, 1949, in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Gerald and Lucile (Stoneburner) Barber. Grace worked as a nurse at several facilities in the Allegan and Kalamazoo County areas. On December 11, 1971, in Otsego, she married Ivan Blowers Jr., who passed away in 2012. Grace enjoyed the Otsego homestead horse farm, road trips, and the summer cottage with family. She spent many summers boating, paddle wheeling, and jet skiing on Gun Lake. She traveled several times to her favorite areas in Gatlinburg, TN, and Myrtle Beach, SC. Later, she and Ivan enjoyed trips to Texas, Florida, and Washington to visit family. Surviving are her children, Amanda Blowers Matthews and Elizabeth (Derek) Schut; grandchildren, Ryan Matthews, Paige Matthews and Cash Schut; great-grandchild, Karter Kline; siblings, Betty Bongers, Jane (Neal) Rockafellow, Carl (Sally) Barber and Geraldene Bloem, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and her brother David Barber. In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A private memorial is planned for a later date.
Dean A. RANTZ
AGE 66 - MARTIN, MI
Dean A. Rantz, age 66, passed away on February 16, 2025, in Allegan, Michigan, surrounded by loved ones. Born on March 10, 1958, in Hastings, Michigan to Harold and Janet (Johncock) Rantz, Dean was a lifelong resident of the Martin area. Over the years, he worked in various roles, including as a heavy equipment operator and for numerous local farmers. A true jack of all trades, he was always willing to lend a hand wherever needed. Dean found joy in many activities throughout his life. In his earlier years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. He also cherished time spent with friends over breakfast and had a fondness for visiting the casino. Above all else, he treasured his family and especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. Dean is survived by his brothers, Don (Tina) and Kelly; sisters, Dar (Knick) and Margie Day; sister-in-law, Melodye; daughters, Erica (Josh) Swenson and Felicia Humphrey; and grandchildren, Derek, Owen, Teagan, and Cooper. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews who will dearly miss him. A special thank you goes to Ann, Bobbie, Courtney and Kaylee for their loving care during his final days. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Janet; his oldest brother, Ron; his brother-in-law, Brian Gordon; and his great nephew, Gunner. Dean's Celebration of Life will be Saturday, March 15, 2025, at noon at the Martin Methodist Church performed by Pastor Margaret Stoken.
The family is being cared for by Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care 3627 Linden Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49548 Please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory. www.michigancremation.com
Faith LINK
“Examine yourselves, to see whether you are holding to your faith” ~ 2 Corinthians 13:5 By Rev. Dan Minor - revdminor1945@gmail.com
Happy Heavenly Birthday HARM MEYER
3/06/58 ~ 2/20/16 Love and miss you! THE MEYER FAMILY
Please join family and friends of Margaret Powers for a Celebration of Life on March 30, 2025 at 11:30AM at Mountain Home Cemetery
A luncheon will follow at the Otsego VFW at 12noon.
The observance of the holy season of Lent has been observed in the church since at least 325 A.D. at the Council of Nicea. The 40 days of Lent brings to mind the time Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness fasting and preparing himself for his ministry on earth. The 40 days does not include Sundays because Sundays are counted as “feast” days rather than “fast” days.
The word Lent comes from a word meaning “the lengthening of days” as we move toward spring (We love this idea!). In the early church this season was a time of intense preparation and examination of candidates for baptism on Easter.
The season begins on Ash Wednesday (March 5, 2025) and ends on Easter Sunday (April 20, 2025). On Ash Wednesday priests would place ashes on the forehead of the faithful and would say, “Remember you were made from dust, and to dust you will return (Genesis 3:19).” Ashes are a sign of humility (James 4:10).
• Inasmuch as we humble ourselves before God, we are leaning into Lent.
• Inasmuch as we examine ourselves in light of the Cross, we are leaning into Lent (2 Corinthians 13:5).
• Inasmuch as we pray to God, we are leaning into Lent.
• Inasmuch as we confess and repent of our sins, we are leaning into Lent (I John 1:9).
• Inasmuch as we allow God’s Word to speak to us, we are leaning into Lent.
• Inasmuch as we ponder the meaning of our Lord’s suffering, death, Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension, we are leaning into Lent.
• Inasmuch as we deny ourselves and take up the cross of discipleship, we are leaning into Lent (Luke 9:23).
Are we leaning into Lent?
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to draw closer to You. In Your strong name. Amen.
MI 49010
Community Page Community Page
National Nutrition Month
I Am With You Always
There was a group of college students waiting for the professor to show up for a 1:00 class at the start of a new semester. At 1:05, one of the students joked, “You know, if the professor doesn’t show up by 1:15 we are allowed to leave class. Plus, I heard that this professor is a long-winded lecturer and tough grader.” Other students started to chime in with jokes about the professor. When the clock showed 1:14, the student who had initiated the comical chatter stood up and said, “Well, I suppose I should teach class today.” The students were embarrassed and shocked. Their professor was in classroom with them the whole time even though they didn’t know it.
David wrote love songs to God called Psalms. In Psalm 139, David addresses God, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence...? If I say surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me, even the darkness will not be dark to you.” David is celebrating the omnipresence of God, that God is always everywhere-even in the dark!
Life brings some dark moments. David experienced deep darkness. His mentor, Saul, hunted him down and threw spears at him. His confidants betrayed him. His own son, Absalom, tried to kill him (and you thought your family had issues). Yet, David was convinced God was with him in the dark. Even though the darkness of life might blind you to God, the darkness does not blind God to you.
When you hit that 20 foot putt, God sees you. And when you whiff on the fairway, God sees you. He sees you when you are curled up on your bed in a fetal position weeping over the painful disappointments of life. When you are bullied at school or work, God sees you. When you are falsely accused or misunderstood, God sees you. When the darkness of life is so thick you can’t see an inch in front of you, let alone see God, God sees you. Jesus said it best at the very end of Matthew’s Gospel. “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). You are wanted and welcome at FCC!
~ Pastor Lenny Luchetti
www.otsegocongregational.org
COME WORSHIP JESUS WITH US THIS SUNDAY AT 10:40AM. We are a friendly, but not smothering, growing congregation on mission to love and serve our community. Our worship services are short but impactful. We also have a fun-filled and safe program for kids ages 0-10.
SPRING SAVINGS
Need a Website? It’s so affordable at $399 plus $35/mth. hosting fee. Get a professional website for less. We design it, you can update it. Easily post pictures, videos, coupons, flyers and so much more and you can do it yourself! Of course we’ll be here for support if you need us! No waiting, no spending a fortune for a professional to do it for you! Contact the Community Shoppers Guide @ 269-694-9431
Wanted
Replace Your Roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited time offer - 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-888-718-1856
Home Improvement, Siding, decks, windows, doors, etc. C&H Immekus Enterprises Call 269-720-8388.
Eliminate Gutter Cleaning Forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Call 1-844-369-2501
Swegles Handyman Service: Roofing, plumbing, decks, all home repairs. Insured, quality work. 269-243-0468
Built Rite Pole Buildings State-wide. Prices starting at 24x40x10- $18,300.00. 30x40x10 - $20,400.00. Erected on your site. Call for price not shown on any size building or go to www.builtritepolebuildingsmi.com. Or call 989-259-2015 or 989-324-0035
Household/Appliances
Adjustable Bed Brand New with mattress. Made in U.S.A., in plastic, with warranty. Retail cost $3,995.00, sacrifice for $875.00. Call for showing or delivery: 989-923-1278
DanDanTheMattressMan.com
Bath & Shower Updates in as little asone day!Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months!Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call:844-587-8518
Budget Appliance Service. Prompt, Professional and Affordable Service. Call us today for your appliance repair needs. (269)685-8902. Ted LaFountain, Owner.
E and N Services (269)680-1550 Lawn care, spring cleanup, landscaping, retaining walls, land clearing, power washing, painting, general hauling, tree and bush trimming. Commercial/residential. Fully insured ennservices49080@yahoo.com
Buying Junk Cars, Trucks, scrap metal, farm machinery. Kalamazoo Metal Recyclers, Inc., 1525 King Hwy., Kalamazoo, 269-381-1315. Bring this ad!
Wanted: Quads, mini bikes, ATVs, go-carts, snowmobiles. Paying cash for wrecked, non-runners, & parts. Free pick up, call (616)666-0312.
Walking Route in Otsego for the Community Shoppers Guide. E. Orleans/Court St. area. Route open end of March. Make between $100-$125/mo. The paper is delivered between 6:30am Friday and noon Saturday. Must have working phone. www.CommunityShoppersGuide.net - Apply online on in person.
oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-477-9045
We buy houses for cash as is! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer & get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-877-5833
Don't let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595
Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-844-591-7951
Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving all installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 3/30/25.) 1-844501-3208
Mobile Help America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888489-3936
Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234
Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees free activation. All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866
DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405
Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid
of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971
Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936
Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258
Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author`s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a free 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power
Services
Budget Appliance Service. Prompt, Professional and Affordable Service. Call us today for your appliance repair needs. (269)685-8902. Ted LaFountain, Owner.
Nature’s Outdoor Services is scheduling for spring! Lawn care, landscaping, light excavation, brush clearing/removal and more. 269-615-8800
Martin Transmission- Not just transmissions. We offer full service auto repair. Locally owned & operated for over 20 years. Free quotes. 565 Lincoln Rd. (M-89), Otsego. (269)694-5500.
We Buy Houses! Cash for your home, any condition. Call Brad Boone (269)207-5691
Mobile Homes Wanted. Shorter homes are needed. We take down and move. Please call Dave Walker @ (269)365-8310 Wolf Lake Home Sales, LLC
Amish-Built Mini-Cabins starting at $5,295. Made in Michigan! We deliver statewide. Call 989-832-1866. MyNextBarn.com.
Prepare For Power Outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-922-0420 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
We Buy 8,000 Cars A Week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-833-324-2582
Place A Classified Online! Over 20,000 local people view the ad! Only $13 for 1-15 words (add $1 for each additional 5 words) www.communityshoppersguide.net
80 YEARS A N NIVERSARY CELEBRATI O
1945 ~ 2025
A Brief history of the Community Shoppers Guide Otsego, Michigan
WE ARE THE COMMUNITY SHOPPERS GUIDE
Our content of Display & Classified ads has been an established medium of exchange between buyers and sellers in Southwest Michigan since 1945.
WE DELIVER FREE
to over 11,000 homes & businesses on Saturdays, plus we distribute additional copies free of charge at many key traffic locations in Allegan, Barry & Kalamazoo Counties with additional 1,600+ digital views per month.
We make that investment because our readers and advertisers support us and see us as an integral part of the local market economy.
WE ADD VALUE
No other print or online publication can offer you the sustained, targeted circulation, market coverage and readership loyalty of the Community Shoppers Guide.
WE ARE AND KNOW LOCAL
We are a locally owned family business bringing the community together and promoting the local economy for three generations!
We provide effective, affordable advertising for EVERYONE!
The Community Shoppers Guide was founded and published in 1940 by Howard Bargwell. He did all the work by hand. The paper was distributed once a month to approx. 1000 Otsego residents for free. The paper changed ownership through the years, and was bought in 1945 by Grant “Mack” Bennett. He increased circulation into Plainwell and delivery to once a week, distributing to approx. 3500 residents.
In 1970 computerized typesetting was offered and purchased to improve the publication. Circulation was increased to 8500 residents. In 1974, due to the high costs of the postal service, the Community Shoppers Guide started its own delivery system. In 1975 it relocated to the Downtown Otsego office that it is currently in now. Ron Bennett, Mack’s son, took over ownership in the early 1980s. Then, Ron’s son, Marty Bennett, took over in the early 2000s.
The Community Shoppers Guide is a three generation owned company!
