About Us

The Whaley Family has a long history of entrepreneurial pursuits, with privately held companies spanning technology, financial services, real estate, and food & beverage. The family's roots in the food & beverage industry began in 1979 when Dan Whaley purchased the Golden Glow Ballroom in Saginaw, Michigan. This venture was inspired by his grandparents, who were successful restaurateurs dating back to the 1940s.

John & Alice Chiesi, Dan Whaley's grandparents, operated several restaurants throughout the 1940s and 1970s. Their entrepreneurial spirit and culinary expertise paved the way for the family's continued involvement in the hospitality industry.

The Golden Glow Ballroom, under Dan Whaley's ownership, quickly became a popular venue for various events, including bingos, teen dances, big band jazz concerts, and wedding receptions. At the young age of 23, Whaley became one of the state's youngest liquor license holders, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the local hospitality scene.

Over the years, the Golden Glow underwent several renovations, culminating in a complete overhaul in 2010, resulting in a new 900-seat facility. In addition to the Golden Glow, Dan Whaley also developed several other nightclubs and restaurants in Bay City and Saginaw, including the Fordney Hotel, Old Town Saloon, Jaspers Riverfront Saloon, and Old City Hall.

The Whaley family's legacy continues with the fifth generation, who have expanded the Golden Glow's offerings. In 2019, they added outdoor wedding ceremony gardens and constructed a new pavilion that can accommodate up to 175 guests. The company also made significant investments in the property's infrastructure, including a new asphalt parking lot.

In 2023, the Whaley family further expanded their hospitality ventures by acquiring the Village Inn in Linwood, Michigan, and the Lumber Baron in Bay City. The Lumber Baron and Stables Martini & Cigar Bar, a 35,000-square-foot building located on Bay City's waterfront marina, was originally known as Herford & Hops in the late 1990s.

After the purchase of the Lumber Baron and Stables Martini & Cigar Bar, a revitalization project began on the historic property. Following this transformation, the property was rebranded as the Liberty Harbor Event Center, featuring a variety of venues, including a 600-seat event center, a 180-seat brewery and restaurant named W.H. Ales, a 62-seat Executive Dining Room, the 190-seat Stables Lounge and Night Club, and the Hickory Humidor cigar bar.

The Whaley family's entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond their hospitality ventures. They have also purchased a substantial development site on Walnut Street, adjacent to Liberty Harbor Marina and Veterans Park, which they plan to develop in the future. This development could include a hotel and retail shops, further enhancing the area's economic growth and tourism potential.