The final 2023/2024 Fleis & Vandenbrink Streetscape Study is published!
This extensive document includes an analysis on the condition of the current streetscape site, recommendations, and the project's budget and implementation. The vision for the Streetscape Corridor includes improvements of the River Street Corridor, Riverwalk Connector, and park re-design.
This study is a catalyst to nourish the heartbeat of our downtown district. Our Streetscape committee is taking vital steps to take Downtown Manistee to the next level, all while preserving its unique, historical identity that make it what we all know and love.
This Streetscape study is only the beginning for Downtown Manistee, as conversations are currently being held to turn these recommendations into a reality.
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We are pleased to announce the addition of Andrew Stafford to our team at the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce to lead our economic development efforts for Manistee County.
Andrew is a Michigan native who was born and raised on the east side of the state. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in international planning studies also from Michigan State University. Andrew's background includes grant writing and a CEDAM Community Development Fellowship in the City of White Cloud, where he fueled his passion for fostering growth in Michigan communities.
In his free time, Andrew enjoys fly fishing, hiking, and watching musical theater, with his favorite production being Newsies. Andrew is thrilled to join the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce and support the economic growth of Manistee County.
Please join us in welcoming Andrew to the Manistee Area Chamber!
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES |
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FREE CANVA WORKSHOP
Tuesday, May 7, 9:00 AM
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Have you been looking to level up your graphic design skills? Join us for this FREE Canva workshop with LakeFX Media!
Please bring a computer, tablet, or electronic device of your choice.
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FREE HOSPITALITY TRAINING
The Hospitality Training Institute of Michigan (HTIM) is offering FREE registration for their Business Management Certificate Course.
Interested participants should NOT delay in registering for this course!
- This is a $2,500 course that is offered for free of charge to the first 2,000 registrants
- If this course is completed, the student will receive a $500 bonus
- Course includes safe environment training, managing guest experiences, financial management, supervisory skills, food safety management (ServSafe Manager certificate), and a final exam
- Half of the classes are online and the other half are offered in 6 hubs across Michigan
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FOREST FESTIVAL EVENT SUBMISSION |
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Business owners and local organizations that are coordinating their events around Forest Festival should submit the Forest Festival Event Form to be included on the MNFF digital brochure.
The deadline to be included on the digital brochure is Saturday, June, 8th. Events submitted after this date will only be posted on the website's event schedule page.
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2024 FLOWER PLANTER & BENCH REQUEST FORM |
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Spring and summer are just around the corner, and it's time to start thinking about how to make your business stand out. The DDA is here to help you do just that with our beautiful Flower Planters and Benches.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance downtown and attract more patrons. Place your orders before May 6th and let's create a thriving and vibrant community together!
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DOWNTOWN BUSINESS CONNECTION MEETINGS |
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We invite and welcome everyone to participate in the monthly Downtown Business meetings which are held in person on the third Tuesday of the month at 8:30 am.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 21st at 8:30 AM located at 400 River Street, Manistee MI - Classroom A.
Here you may have a casual conversation with your fellow merchants where you can receive updates, discuss new ideas/challenges, or ask questions.
We will welcome Steve Brower and Betsey Evans from Venture North Funding and Development to our next meeting in May.
They focus their affordable loans, professional consulting, and mini-grants on underserved populations, such as minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses. Their loans have helped many to start a new businesses or expand their existing business. Venture North can lend up to $350,00 with the funds to support a variety of purposes including equipment purchases, inventory, and working capital needs to name a few.
Kathryn Kenny, Chair of the Historic District Commission, and Teresa Waldo, Community Development Director/Planning and Zoning from the City of Manistee, will be attending the meeting. They will provide valuable insights and updates on the latest signage regulations for Downtown Manistee.
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GRAND OPENING: The Piping Plover in Downtown Manistee
Friday, May 24 at 4:00 PM
385 River Street, Manistee MI
Named for the endangered Lake Michigan shorebird, this storefront celebrates creativity and place with a curated collection of clothing, art gallery, and monthly artist events.
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If you know an entrepreneur who wants to start or expand a business, please contact us at the Chamber, or visit our website.
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Have a social media update to share?
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"The Stee" SOCIAL DISTRICT |
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OPEN EVERY DAY from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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This is a designated area, opened last year by the DDA and Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, where patrons ages 21 + can purchase an alcoholic beverage from participating establishments in a logo cup and can carry/consume it outdoors within the parameters of the district. |
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PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS
- Northern Channel Brewing Co.
- The Outsider
- Fricano's Manistee River
- The Ramsdell Inn & TJ's Pub
- The Historic Vogue Theatre
- Taco 'Bout It Mexican Fusion
- The Golden Stag
- Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar
- Third Life Brewing
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PLEASE NOTE: All State of Michigan and City of Manistee laws apply, including but not limited to those prohibiting public intoxication, impaired driving, and serving alcohol to minors.
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