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For Immediate Release: Nov. 3, 2023
Contact: Steve Kelso
PH: 616-202-8376
EM: steve.kelso@kentcountymi.gov
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Kent County Health Department Encourages Restaurant Week Participation Throughout The County
New Interactive Map Will Help Residents Find Local Establishments with Ease
(GRAND RAPIDS, MI. – November 3, 2023) - The Kent County Health Department is encouraging residents participating in Restaurant Week GR, taking place from November 3 to 11, to broaden their dining experiences and support restaurants across Kent County. To assist residents in finding and selecting a restaurant, an interactive map was created featuring local restaurants across Kent County.
“Restaurants hold a unique place in our community,” said Kent County Health Department Director Dr. Adam London. “They are often where memories are made, and life’s milestones are celebrated. Supporting these establishments not only preserve our local flavors but also strengthen the bonds that hold our community together."
Spending at local restaurants benefits the community by supporting jobs and businesses. Whether you dine in, order take-out, or buy gift cards, you contribute to local employment and business growth. In the United States, the restaurant industry has rebounded to employ a record 12.37 million people as of September 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. However, Michigan's restaurant workforce remains about 6% below its peak, underscoring the importance of supporting local restaurants.
The Health Department works with a diverse range of food establishments, spanning from restaurants to mobile food trucks to healthcare facilities, as part of our annual licensing renewal and inspection process. Consequently, we are uniquely positioned to comprehend the challenges that restaurants have faced over the years.
“We created an interactive map to encourage residents to explore our local eateries during restaurant week and beyond,” said Environmental Health Division Director Sara Simmonds. “Whether its an old favorite, someplace you have heard about and haven’t tried yet, or an out of the way spot with a unique menu, they all help make up the fabric of Kent County.”
The map can be found on our social media site and website and allows residents to search within a specified distance of their location. Each restaurant has a clickable icon and provides residents more details about the establishment. Residents are also encouraged to follow our social media throughout the next week to learn how our team partners with local restaurants.
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