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  • Monday, September 25, 2023 1:38 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    O & W Inc. maintains commitment to clean energy initiatives that protect Michigan’s air, land, and Great Lakes

    Ypsilanti, Mich. – Independent, family-owned beer distributor O & W Inc. today announced it recycled a company record of nearly 104 million cans and glass bottles in 2022. The new record, an 8.5% increase from 2021, makes O & W Inc. one of the largest recyclers in southeast Michigan. The company’s announcement coincides with Crush a Can Day, celebrated on Sept. 27.

    “Crush a Can Day provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate our continued commitment to best business practices that help reduce our carbon footprint and protect our air, land, and Great Lakes,” said Kit Wanty-Lambert, president of O & W Inc. “As an employee-first company, we are proud of our continued innovations that promote responsible energy use and reduce pollution. We take pride in optimizing our energy resilience, which benefits everyone by preserving jobs, helping our company save money, protecting our natural resources, and contributing to our local economy.”

    In addition to cans and bottles brought back from retail, O & W Inc. is committed to recycling 100% of the cardboard, plastic, and paper within its facility. In 2021, O & W Inc. invested in a new solar array system on its warehouse in Ypsilanti, complete with 420 new panels producing 200,000 kilowatt hours of electricity. Since its installation, the distributor has seen savings of $20,000 and $23,000 in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

    “Our renewable energy investment is just part of our commitment to conservation and diversification in our warehouse, on the road, and in the marketplace,” said Isabel Wanty, vice president of operations at O & W Inc. “As an independent, local beer distributor helping to promote growth, choices, and competition, we are thrilled to bring several environmentally friendly products to consumers across southeast Michigan. Expanding our portfolio to include ethically sourced, sustainably packed products is part of our ongoing efforts to preserve the environment for future generations.”

    Michigan’s beer and wine distributors became the state’s major recyclers after the 1978 passage of the bottle bill, which gives 10 cents back when people return cans and bottles to retailers. Distributors initiate the chain of deposits, collecting the 10-cent-per-container deposit at the front end, refunding the deposit when containers are properly returned by retailers, and recycling the materials at the end of the process. Because of the system, Michigan has the nation’s highest return rate for recycling cans and bottles. 

     


    O&W Inc.’s solar array system on its warehouse in Ypsilanti, complete with 420 new panels producing 200,000 kilowatt hours of electricity.

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  • Wednesday, September 20, 2023 9:17 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Committee to continue focus on promoting vital roles women play in beer and wine industry

    Lansing, Mich. – The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) today announced its newly elected Women’s Advocacy Committee for 2023-2025. The committee was established in 2020 to promote the vital roles many accomplished women play in the success and operations of the beer and wine distribution industry. The announcement coincides with American Business Women’s Day on September 22, a day to officially honor the contributions and achievements of businesswomen across the nation and their impact on the workforce.

    Jenna Podjan, sales manager at Bud Distributing Inc., was appointed chair of the MB&WWA’s Women’s Advocacy Committee.

    “I want to thank Kit Wanty-Lambert for her tremendous leadership the last two years as committee chair in advancing our mission to educate legislators and the general public about the evolution of women working in the beer and wine distribution industry,” Podjan said. “I look forward to working with this inspirational group of women as we continue our efforts to be a go-to resource for information on Michigan’s alcohol regulations and how they create choice and competition while protecting public health and safety.”

    The innovative nature of the beer and wine distribution industry fosters astounding growth potential for women in many capacities, including sales, marketing, human resources, finance, and operations. Whether working in warehouses, merchandising in retail stores, or leading their organizations as presidents and CEOs, women are making great strides for their companies, local communities, and the industry as a whole.

    “It’s our hope that more women consider exciting career opportunities in this constantly evolving and rewarding industry,” said Brandi Tribell, vice president of operations and events at the MB&WWA. “With longstanding histories where they live and work, beer and wine distributors employ thousands of Michiganders and pump millions of dollars into local communities each year. It’s exciting to witness more women coming on board, climbing the ranks, and playing pivotal roles in the development and success of the industry.”

    Podjan and Tribell are two of 11 female executives on the MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee:


    Jenna Podjan, Women’s Advocacy Committee chair and sales manager at Bud Distributing Inc. in Dowagiac

     

    Jessica Balder, Finance Manager at Alliance Beverage Distributing in Grand Rapids

     

    Joanie O’Sullivan Butler, president & CEO of John P. O’Sullivan Distributing Inc. in Flint

     

    Marcia Hune, lobbyist at Governmental Consultant Services Inc. in Lansing


    Megan Iaccino, director of marketing at Great Lakes Wine & Spirits

     

    Heidi Knudsen, controller at Ludington Beverage Company, Inc. in Ludington

     

    Kit Wanty-Lambert, president of O & W Inc. in Ypsilanti

     

    Kristy Linster, vice president of Floral City Beverage Inc. in Monroe

     

    Lindsay Smith, controller at H. Cox & Son Inc. in Traverse City

     

    Brandi Tribell, vice president of operations & events at MB&WWA in Lansing

     

    Jamie Wanty, vice president of marketing at O & W Inc. in Ypsilanti

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  • Tuesday, September 19, 2023 2:35 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Imperial Beverage, Michigan’s leading independent craft beer distributor, today announced a new partnership with Michigan State University to sell Big Lake Brewing’s signature Sparti Parti IPA at Spartan Stadium during the 2023 football season.

    Sparti Parti is among Big Lake Brewing’s signature, best-selling hazy IPAs. With crisp pine notes and a deep citrus finish, Sparti Parti is an extremely pleasant, sessionable beer, ideal for tailgating or sipping during a Spartan football game.

    “Sparti Parti has been a mainstay product for years for thousands of Spartans across Michigan, and we are thrilled to have it be among the first beers welcomed into Spartan Stadium and enjoyed by their enthusiastic fans,” said Barry Galgoci, general manager of Imperial Beverage.

    In late July, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill allowing alcohol sales at Michigan’s 15 public universities' football, hockey, and basketball games. Sales are permitted at select games at each university’s discretion an hour before kickoff, at puck drop and at tipoff, and during games.

    This year, Big Lake Brewing is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Their beers are all products of the Great Beer State – inspired by and enjoyed by thousands at and around some of Michigan’s greatest landmarks, including Michigan State University. This dedication to our state’s culture has built Big Lake Brewing’s brand over the past decade.

    To learn more about Sparti Parti, follow Big Lake's social media platforms.

    Website: Learn more at http://biglakebrewing.com

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biglakebrewing/?hl=en

    Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/biglakebrewing

    About Imperial Beverage

    Imperial Beverage is a long-standing member of the Michigan beverage distribution community. Established in 1933 after the repeal of Prohibition and purchased by Kalamazoo’s Cekola family in 1984, Imperial has grown from a one-county beer distributor to a top 10 statewide beer, wine and spirits wholesaler. With 340 employees and four locations in Kalamazoo, Livonia, Traverse City and Ishpeming, Imperial provides statewide coverage that serves every Michigan county, every week, all year long. Learn more at imperialbeverage.com.

    About Big Lake Brewing

    Big Lake Brewing is one of Michigan’s leading craft breweries, with distribution across the state. Located on 7th Street in downtown Holland, Michigan, the taproom has 26 taps, always filled with a variety of handcrafted beers created by a passionate team of brewers. Big Lake also offers a full lunch and dinner menu with a Dutch spin. Learn more at biglakebrewing.com.

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  • Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:08 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Independent, family-owned beer distributor’s contribution latest example of giving back to community it proudly serves

    CLINTON TWP., MICHIGAN — Local independent, family-owned beer distributor Petitpren Inc. today announced it has donated 170 cases of Langers Fruit Juice to the Community Food Bank of Macomb County, which provides immediate relief to those in need of food through a network of more than 70 pantries and hunger relief organizations. The contribution is the latest example of Petitpren giving back to the Macomb County community it proudly serves.

    Operating as a nonprofit organization, the food bank supplies food at no cost to families and ensures pantry shelves are stocked.

    “At Petitpren Inc., we pride ourselves on stepping up to help the community we proudly serve, and it is our sincere hope that our donation helps the Community Food Bank of Macomb County’s ongoing efforts to help ensure all county residents have access to nutritious, healthy food options,” said Taylor Ickes, HR manager of Petitpren Inc. “Our dedication to our family of employees extends into the communities where we live and work, and this partnership with our local food bank is one way we’re proud to give back.”

    Michigan’s beer and wine distributors are leaders in charitable giving in their communities. Petitpren Inc. has longstanding partnerships with many local organizations that support and promote the arts, health care and wellness, children and youth, building and enriching community and businesses, volunteer-based leadership and development, and much more.

    “We are proud to call Petitpren Inc. a neighbor and partner in helping ensure no Macomb County family goes hungry,” said Alec Williams, site supervisor of the Community Food Bank of Macomb County. “We would like to express our gratitude to everyone at Petitpren Inc. for this generous donation to help local families in need. We are thankful for relationships with dedicated partners in our community such as Petitpren who help ensure we are successful in carrying out our mission.”

    Petitpren supports numerous additional local charities, including:  

    • United Way for Southeastern Michigan
    • McLaren Macomb Foundation
    • Turning Point of Mt. Clemens
    • Mt. Clemens Care House
    • Mt. Clemens Anton Art Center
    • Mt. Clemens Lions Club
    • Care House of Macomb County
    • Macomb Center for the Performing Arts
    • Macomb Family YMCA


    Founded in 1933, Petitpren Inc. is a third-generation, family-owned beer distributor, proudly serving retailers in Macomb County and a sliver of Wayne County that includes the city of Hamtramck. The company’s foundation has been built on providing superior customer service, building strong partnerships with its suppliers, and giving back to its surrounding communities. Petitpren Inc. is very active in sponsoring local events and activities contributing to the growth and success of Macomb County.

    Cutline: Taylor Ickes, left, HR manager of Petitpren Inc., and Alec Williams, site supervisor of the Community Food Bank of Macomb County. 

    Cutline: Matt Orlando, left, driver at Petitpren Inc., and Alec Williams, site supervisor of the Community Food Bank of Macomb County.

    ###

  • Monday, August 14, 2023 2:25 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    BAY CITY, MICHIGAN — Local beer distributor Fabiano Brothers Inc. today announced special appearances by a world-famous Budweiser Clydesdale Aug. 16-18 in Burton, Flint, and Lapeer as the iconic Clydesdales travel across the country in support of Anheuser-Busch’s partnership with Folds of Honor. Through its scholarship program, Folds of Honor helps ensure local families of fallen or disabled U.S. military members and families of first responders receive educational opportunities and support.

    Michigan’s independent, family-owned beer distributors are leaders in charitable giving in their communities and actively partner with local organizations, which Fabiano Brothers exemplifies through its long-term involvement with nonprofits such as Folds of Honor.

    “We are thrilled to bring an iconic Budweiser Clydesdale to mid-Michigan this month in partnership with Folds of Honor, continuing our company’s commitment to supporting the military and honoring those who serve our country, some of whom have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy,” said Jamie Farrell, Director of Sales and Marketing Anheuser Busch Brands for Fabiano Brothers Inc. “We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to support Folds of Honor in its mission to inspire courage and determination in our military families as they seek new opportunities and plan for brighter futures.”

    The Budweiser Clydesdale will be at Sharky’s Sports Bar in Burton Wednesday, Aug. 16, from 7-9 p.m., the Flint Farmer’s Market Thursday, Aug. 17, from 3-5 p.m., and the Lapeer Days Beer Tent Friday, Aug. 18, from 6-8 p.m. Visitors will have the opportunity to have their photo taken with the Clydesdale and make donations to Fabiano Brothers Inc.’s local Folds of Honor chapter.

    To date, Anheuser-Busch, its brands, and wholesaler partners have donated $21.7 million to Folds of Honor, which has contributed to the nonprofit’s delivery of 44,000 scholarships since its founding.

    Cutline: A Budweiser Clydesdale must be a gelding at least 4 years of age, stand 72 inches at the shoulder when fully mature, weigh between 1,800 and 2,300 pounds, have a bay coat, four white stocking feet, a white blaze, and a black mane and tail.

    Cutline: Farmers living in the 19th century along the banks of the River Clyde in Lanarkshire, Scotland, bred the Great Flemish Horse, the forerunner of the Clydesdale.

    Cutline: Farmers living in the 19th century along the banks of the River Clyde in Lanarkshire, Scotland, bred the Great Flemish Horse, the forerunner of the Clydesdale.

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  • Thursday, July 27, 2023 11:09 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Newly elected chair, vice-chair, and at-large directors hail from distributors in Grand Rapids, Flint, Kalamazoo, and Ypsilanti

    LANSING, MICHIGAN — The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA), one of the alcohol beverage industry’s most progressive state trade associations, is pleased to announce the election of new executive officers to lead the MB&WWA over the next two years.

    A.J. Mathews, president of West Side Beer Distributing in Grand Rapids, was elected chair of the MB&WWA Board of Directors. He succeeds Jim Warbritton, president of Rave Associates, who served two terms as chair.Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler, president and CEO of John P. O’Sullivan Distributing in Flint, was elected vice-chair. Kit Wanty-Lambert, president of O&W Inc. in Ypsilanti, and Jason Howard, general manager of I.H.S. Distributing Co. in Kalamazoo, were elected to at-large director positions.

    “I want to thank Jim Warbritton for his efforts in leading our growth initiatives, further solidifying the MB&WWA’s position as a top-tier trade association that helps spur new innovation, choice, and competition and supports Michigan’s small businesses,” Mathews said. “I look forward to fostering continued success in this ever-evolving industry and ensuring Michigan’s vibrant and successful beer and wine industries continue to flourish.”

    West Side Beer Distributing is one of the largest beverage distributors in Michigan, with operations in each of the four largest metropolitan areas. The distributor provides industry-leading beverages from over 45 suppliers to more than 4,000 customers across 15 counties.

    “I am proud to be the second woman to hold an executive leadership position for the Association,” O’Sullivan-Butler said. “Along with serving on the MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee, it is a tremendous opportunity to advocate for distributor interests in Lansing and highlight women’s vital role in Michigan’s thriving beer and wine industry.”

    The O’Sullivan family has operated a beer distributorship in the Flint area since 1976. With more than 130 employees and state-of-the-art operational systems, John P. O’Sullivan Distributing navigates 27 delivery routes daily, servicing 2,300 stores, bars, and restaurants throughout Genesee and 10 surrounding counties.

    “Thanks to the hard work and lasting legacies of many dedicated people over the last 75 years, the Association has seen tremendous success defending the time-proven three-tier system that allows competition to flourish, giving consumers a wide range of choices,” Howard said. “I look forward to building on that success.”

    As a family-owned and operated business since 1921, I.H.S. Distributing Co. serves licensed establishments across southwest Michigan.

    “With more women taking on key leadership roles in the beer and wine industry, serving on the MB&WWA Board of Directors is a tremendous opportunity,” said Wanty-Lambert. “I’m honored to join this dynamic group of leaders and look forward to the Association’s next chapter of growth and success.”

    O&W Inc. is a beer distributor delivering over 160 brands of beer and specialty beverages from over 50 suppliers in southeast Michigan.

    On Aug. 6, the MB&WWA will celebrate 75 years. As the Association moves forward with newly elected leadership, it remains committed to representing Michigan’s independent, locally-owned beer and wine distributors and advancing advocacy for them on legislative, regulatory, legal, and public policy matters.

    A.J. Mathews, president of West Side Beer Distributing and chair of the MB&WWA Board of Directors

    Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler, president and CEO of John P. O’Sullivan Distributing Inc. and vice-chair of the MB&WWA Board of Directors

    Jason Howard, general manager of I.H.S. Distributing Co. and at-large director on the MB&WWA Board of Directors

    Kit Wanty-Lambert, president of O&W Inc. and at-large director on the MB&WWA Board of Directors

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  • Thursday, June 29, 2023 4:06 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    As President of O & W Inc., I am proud to represent women in Michigan’s thriving beer and wine distribution industry. It has been my life's greatest thrill — and challenge — to take the reins of my family business in an industry that men had primarily run for decades.

    Today, breweries and retailers of all sizes are owned and operated by women. There are female head brewers, and women continue climbing the ranks of Michigan’s family-owned, independent beer and wine distributors.

    I am proud to be part of the fifth generation to lead O & W Inc., along with my sister, Jamie Wanty, and cousins Cooper Wanty and Isabel Wanty. It has been an honor to grow up in this warehouse and be one of three women in leadership roles today. We pride ourselves on providing good-paying jobs to over 170 people, offering a premium level of service to our 2,400 licensed retailers, and giving back to the communities we serve.

    We’re in great company, with more women taking on key leadership roles in sales, marketing, human resources, finance, operations, and more in our industry across Michigan. Women are working in warehouses, merchandising in retail stores, and leading their organizations as presidents and CEOs. They are making strategic business decisions and creating cultures of collaboration and inclusion that are opening doors that had been closed for generations.

    There is, of course, more work to be done. That’s why I’m excited to help increase the role of women in my industry as Chair of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association’s Women’s Advocacy Committee. The MB&WWA established this committee in 2020 to advocate for distributor interests in Lansing and highlight women’s vital role in the beer and wine industry.


    Our dynamic committee consists of female executives from distributors across the state, as well as the Vice President of Operations & Events for the MB&WWA and one of its lead female lobbyists. We are all evidence of how the beer and wine distribution industry continues to evolve, with strong women rising through the ranks every day. Our goal is to showcase that progress and educate other women about the numerous job opportunities available to them that can lead to rewarding and fulfilling careers.

    The beer and wine distribution industry is unique in that it provides the ability to choose your own path. I encourage young women to lean into who they are, trust themselves, and pursue what excites them. If you love being creative, distributors utilize graphic designers, marketers, social media experts, public relations professionals, and more. If you enjoy working with numbers, there are finance and accounting departments. If you prefer working directly with people, merchandising in retail stores or sales could be for you.

    There have never been more opportunities, and we’re just getting started.


    Kit Wanty-Lambert is president of O & W, Inc. in Ypsilanti and chair of the MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee.

  • Tuesday, June 20, 2023 8:49 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Facility to house state-of-the-art environmental technology, allow company to introduce new brands to market

    GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN – John P. O’Sullivan Distributing, a local, family-owned beer distributor, today broke ground on its new 200,000-square-foot warehouse at 9300 Enterprise Drive in Grand Blanc Township. The facility, which will replace John P. O’Sullivan Distributing’s Flint Township warehouse, will house state-of-the-art environmental technology and allow the company to introduce new brands that provide consumers with a wide range of choices.

    “We’d like to thank the Township Board for recognizing the value in our project that will help generate jobs, support other small businesses, help improve the local economy, and introduce more options for mid-Michigan consumers,” said Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler, President and CEO of John P. O’Sullivan Distributing. “With this expansion, we are laying the groundwork for a third generation of our family to continue growing our business and promoting best practices that help protect our environment.”

    The warehouse will be located on a former pine tree farm in the new Grand Blanc Enterprise Park. John P. O’Sullivan Distributing plans to preserve the surrounding natural areas. Tuesday’s groundbreaking drew local, state, and county dignitaries.

    “We are thrilled to welcome John P. O’Sullivan Distributing to our community as our latest business neighbor who will help create job opportunities and support our local economy,” said Jeremy Smith, Planning and Zoning Administrator for Charter Township of Grand Blanc. “We look forward to partnering with this tremendous company as part of our ongoing efforts to make Grand Blanc Township a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

    “On behalf of the Flint & Genesee Chamber, I’d like to congratulate John P. O’Sullivan Distributing and thank the company’s leadership and staff for its ongoing commitment to giving back to our community,” said Andrew Younger, Executive Director of the Flint & Genesee Chamber. “This new facility will help our local business community continue to grow and thrive.”

    John P. O’Sullivan Distributing plays a critical role in making Michigan the Great Beer State and makes vital economic contributions that make our state a premier place to set up shop,” said State Representative David Martin. “I look forward to seeing John P. O’Sullivan Distributing continue its local family legacy for generations to come.”

    The O’Sullivan family has operated a beer distributorship in the Flint area since 1976. With more than 130 employees and state-of-the-art operational systems, John P. O’Sullivan Distributing navigates 27 delivery routes daily, servicing 2,300 stores, bars, and restaurants throughout Genesee and 10 surrounding counties. The company’s suppliers include Michigan craft brewers Atwater Brewery and Griffin Claw Brewing Co., Molson Coors, Mike’s Hard Lemonade Co., Samuel Adams, Pabst Brewing Co., Corona, and several non-alcoholic beverage suppliers.

    Cutline: John P. O’Sullivan Distributing, county and local officials break ground Tuesday on the distributor’s new, 200,000-square-foot warehouse in Grand Blanc Township.

    Cutline: Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler, President and CEO of John P. O’Sullivan Distributing, speaks at Tuesday’s groundbreaking event.

    Cutline: Scott Bennett, Grand Blanc Township supervisor, speaks at Tuesday’s groundbreaking event.

    Cutline: Andrew Younger, Executive Director of the Flint & Genesee Chamber, speaks at Tuesday’s groundbreaking event.

    Cutline: From left, Sean Butler, Michigan Rep. David Martin and Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler pose at Tuesday’s groundbreaking event.

    Cutline: Sean Butler and Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler pose with their daughter, Alexandra Butler, at Tuesday’s groundbreaking event.


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  • Thursday, June 15, 2023 10:29 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Kristin Beltzer and Hoon-Yung Hopgood strong advocates of three-tier system, Michigan’s alcohol regulations

    LANSING, MICHIGAN – The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) today applauded Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for appointing to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) two strong advocates for Michigan’s alcohol regulations and safeguards, which promote growth, choice, and competition.

    Gov. Whitmer named Kristin Beltzer chair of the Liquor Control Commission. Prior to her appointment, Beltzer was an administrative commissioner for the MLCC. Hoon-Yung Hopgood, a former state representative and senator, returns to Lansing to serve as an MLCC administrative commissioner. Both appointments were effective on June 13.

    “Kristin Beltzer and Hoon-Yung Hopgood are outstanding choices to serve on Michigan’s Liquor Control Commission and will be a tremendous support in promoting Michigan’s time-proven, three-tier system, which allows competition to flourish, giving consumers a wide range of choices,” said Spencer Nevins, president of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association. “We look forward to working with Kristin, Hoon-Yung, and the entire Commission to help ensure Michigan’s vibrant and competitive beer and wine industries continue to thrive.”

    Michigan is among the Top 5 states in beer production, with over 300 small brewers and brew pubs and 140 wineries, thanks to a three-tier system that helps breweries and wineries big and small compete, grow, and thrive on a level playing field.

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  • Friday, June 09, 2023 11:48 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Driver’s community connections and quick thinking helped authorities nab alleged killer on the loose

    Clinton Twp., Michigan – A combination of diligence, community connections, quick thinking and a little bit of luck led to Petitpren Inc. driver Justen Bechamp spotting the vehicle at the center of a manhunt across Metro Detroit and alerting police during his deliveries last month.

    What started as a normal day on May 17 for Bechamp delivering beer to small businesses throughout Macomb County turned into a pivotal moment that led to the arrest of a man in connection with two stabbings, one of them fatal, in Clinton Township.

    “We’re extremely proud of Justen for going above and beyond to serve his community while on the job at Petitpren Inc.,” said Petitpren Vice President and General Manager Jamey Thompson. “His efforts helped the police apprehend the suspect quickly and prevent anyone else from being harmed. The incident is an example of Petitpren’s strong connections in the communities we proudly serve.”

    On the morning of May 17, a woman was fatally stabbed in Roseville, followed by another stabbing in St. Clair Shores. The St. Clair Shores victim survived, and police were searching for the assailant when Bechamp’s dog-sitter called to let him know she was on lockdown at a local school. She gave him the vehicle description and told him to keep an eye out for a dark-colored Chevrolet HHR. Several minutes later, Bechamp pulled into a Warren alley behind Hot Shots Bar & Music Café and spotted that exact vehicle. For a second, he considered it could be a coincidence.

    “It didn’t register at first, but then I went into the building and had the bartender lock the doors and call the police,” said Bechamp, noting police were on the scene within minutes and arrested the assailant. “It was unreal, but I’m glad I was able to do my part and stop this person from doing more harm in our community.”

    Shane Burns, a 31-year-old Washington Township man, was charged with first-degree premeditated murder, attempted murder, disarming a police officer, possession of ammunition, felon in possession of a firearm, two counts of felony firearm, and carrying a concealed weapon in connection with the stabbings. Burns remains in police custody pending court proceedings.

    St. Clair Shores Mayor Kip Walby breathed a sigh of relief when Burns was caught and called Thompson to praise Bechamp’s quick thinking that led to the arrest.

    “It was such a huge relief to hear this person was caught so he couldn’t hurt anyone else,” Walby said. “I wanted Jamey to know how much I appreciated the fact Justen took the initiative to make that potentially life-saving call. Without people like Justen serving as the eyes and ears of our community, I don’t want to think about what else could have happened.”

    Thompson said the day’s events underscore what Petitpren Inc. is all about – giving back to the communities they serve – even in ways unimagined.

    “We’re great at delivering beer and serving our customers but we also pride ourselves on being good stewards in our communities,” Thompson said. “Of course, it’s not every day we’re stopping crime sprees.”

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