Monday, March 3, 2025

2 coney islands have new owners, developer sues city and more Jackson County business news

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JACKSON COUNTY, MI – Auto transport company lays off workers, and try these new Jackson County restaurants.

Here are those stories and other recent Jackson County-area business news you may have missed.

Virginia Coney Island changes hands, but new owners stay true to its roots

To outsiders, the Coney dog may seem simple, but for the new owners of Virginia Coney Island, it’s about keeping a legacy alive.

Ted and Pam Christoff, also owners of Christoff & Sons Flooring Inc. in Jackson, took over the historic eatery, 649 E. Michigan Ave., on Wednesday, Jan. 1. Ted’s heritage is deeply rooted in Coney dogs, and his desire to preserve a tradition brought him back to where it all began.

Read the full story here.

119 employees laid off at auto transport company near Lansing

An auto transport company in Eaton County is shutting its doors, impacting over 100 of its employees.

Jack Cooper LLC announced it has terminated operations at its Dimondale facility, located at 9151 Billwood Highway, near Dimondale southwest of Lansing. This will result in a layoff of 119 employees, effective Saturday, Feb. 8, according to a memo submitted to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Development.

Read the full story here.

Iconic Town Bar in downtown Jackson for sale after 6 years under current owner

After six years with the Town Bar, owner Dan Watts has decided to put the popular downtown bar up for sale.

Watts’ other business Tri-County Water in Jackson has been growing over the years making it more difficult to be involved at the bar, he said.

Read the full story here.

This new Jackson restaurant combines coffee and Mexican fare

A newly opened restaurant in Jackson is combining coffee beverages and Mexican fare. Friends Roberto Arce and Angelica and Erik Canongo opened Sol Azteca on Feb. 5.

Arce moved from Mexico to the U.S. and decided last year he wanted to start his own business. Angelica’s experience working in a coffee shop in Mexico inspired them to combine both ideas into one business.

Read the full story here.

Find fabric at these 4 Jackson-area stores after Joann’s closure

Joann Fabrics and Crafts recently announced plans to close all of its locations this year.

People can still shop at craft chains such as Hobby Lobby, 1355 Boardman Road, and Michaels, 1525 Boardman Road, in Jackson, but there are also a variety of local shops for fabric, thread and other craft supplies

Read the full story here.

New owner of Jackson Coney Island will keep same recipe while reviving nostalgic charm

Scott Pienta, owner of boutique HMN Style in downtown Jackson, would frequently visit Jackson Coney Island for lunch.

Eventually, he noticed a “For Sale” sign on the side of the building at 615 E. Michigan Ave. Recognizing the iconic status of the historic restaurant in Jackson, Pienta decided to pursue a new venture.

Read the full story here.

Aldi is coming to Hillsdale this spring

Progress is being made to bring a new grocery store to the Hillsdale-area.

Discount supermarket chain Aldi is currently building its first Hilldale location at 3751 W. Carleton Road. It plans to host a grand opening ceremony for the new store at 8:45 a.m. Thursday, March 13, a representative for Aldi wrote in an email.

Read the full story here.

Jackson misused authority, deceived developer in Hayes Hotel sale switch-up, lawsuit says

A former developer for the Hayes Hotel is asking a Jackson County judge to block the city’s latest sale to another developer.

Milwaukee-based J. Jeffers & Co. filed a lawsuit Thursday, Feb. 27, against the city of Jackson in Jackson County Circuit Court on Thursday, Feb. 27. The lawsuit alleges the city of Jackson breached its contract with J. Jeffers & Co., and ‘deceived’ the developers.

Read the full story here.

Try loaded nachos or barbecue pizza at new Grass Lake restaurant with welcoming, local vibe

Prates Place in Grass Lake offers smoked meats, local draft beers and an inviting space.

“The kids come in here and see themselves on our TVs and on our posters,” owner Carrie Prater said. “That’s what we wanted; we wanted you to feel welcome.”

Read the full story here.

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