EDITOR’S NOTE: This reporter incorrectly said Anthony Winter is owner of the Retro Room. Humble apologies.
Anthony Winters and his family not long ago came to Wayland and is busy with very public efforts with “This Is Wayland,” a video marketing and public relations promotion campaign for the the community.
“The project started as a way to network with business owners,” Winters explained. “It has since evolved into something far great than that. With 14 episodes shot and 10 aired, we are way ahead of schedule. Our goal now is to meet and spotlight every business that is in Wayland or surrounding area.”
Winters earlier this winter appeared before the Wayland City Council to explain his goals and objectives. he has been working with the Main Street and Chamber of Commerce organizations.
“We want to drive traffic to our ‘Small Town, Not So Far Away’ (website),” he said. “That’s the goal. I moved here in August and the first four weeks here I planned a block party for the three streets around my house. I did it because I wanted to get to know my neighbors.
“I am a talker and I knew no one. The block party was a great success, having almost 55 people attending it and the Fire Department showed up and everything. I bought burgers dogs and some beer.”
Since then Winters has been working on his house and trying to get it ready for the next school year. His next project is to bring in an exchange student from Wayland High school and add another bedroom for the occasion.
“The DDA and the city itself have teamed up with us to plan a couple of events,” Winters said. “We hope to do one this fall and one in the spring.”
He and his wife, Mary Anne, have two boys A.J., who will be 4 in December and Max is 18 months old.
“I’ve seen the traffic pick up for the local businesses that we have have done interviews on and they all have personally thanked me,” said. “The future of Wayland is big and I just want to be a part of it.”
COVER PHOTO: Anthony Winters and his family are newcomers to the community, but already are making some impact.
Thanks for all the hard work, Anthony! And for partnering with the DDA. Partnerships like this make our community stronger!
Dave, I have tried to look at their website “Small Town, Not So Far Away” and I can’t find it. Got any ideas for me?
Try googling Anthony Winters Wayland MI
Already tried that. Maybe he is too new on the scene to show up on the first page?