SPONSOR THE BIZ BLAST

IS YOUR BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION IN NEED OF SOME GREAT EXPOSURE? 

RESERVE YOUR SPOT AS A BIZ BLAST SPONSOR FOR ONLY $50/per wk. 

THE COST IS AFFORDABLE AND THE EXPOSURE IS HIGH.



For more information, call the Chamber office at 231.547.2101 or email info@charlevoix.org

Regional Business After Hours

May 16th

5:30-7


The Boyne Area Chamber is excited to be hosting the annual Regional Chamber Business After Hours, in conjunction with the Charlevoix and East Jordan Chambers, at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 16th at Farm at Frog Hollow - 2750 M-75N, Boyne City.


Network with members and staff from Boyne Area, Charlevoix and East Jordan Chambers of Commerce. Enjoy cocktails and catered hors d'ouvres as well as 50/50 raffle and games with gift card prizes.


This is a public event - open to everyone! (must be 21 to drink). $10 admission.





Citizens National Bank





Charlevoix Township

International Lecture: Global Classroom – Expanding Educational Access to Forcibly Displaced Students

April 24th


Wednesday, April 24 10 a.m. NCMC Library


How can institutional infrastructures of universities be leveraged to expand college education to forcibly displaced students? Conflict- and climate-induced disasters around the world affect millions of people every year, forcing many to leave their homes. These devastating events generally result in children and college-age youths being driven out of schools and campuses to refugee camps, forcing many of them into engaging in questionable activities, such as joining a rebel organization.


College campuses around the world are presented with a daunting responsibility to create educational opportunities to address the plight of the forcibly displaced college-age youths languishing in places where educational opportunities are already limited. This presentation describes implementation of a student-led educational exchange program called Global Classroom that is designed to provide college education to refugees living in the Dzaleka Refugee camp in Malawi, Africa.


Prakash Adhikari, Ph.D., teaches political science at Central Michigan University. His areas of research and teaching lie at the intersection of International Relations and Comparative Politics, with a specific focus on forced migration and transitional justice. His work has received several awards, prizes, and funding, including a grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF).


Adhikari has published several articles and book chapters in places such as the American Journal of Political Science, Journal of Conflict Resolution, International Studies Quarterly, Journal of Human Rights, and Oxford University Press, among others. His ongoing research looks at integration of resettled refugees into American society and the implications of forced migration on international security.


This is a FREE event sponsored by North Central's Global Studies Program and the NCMC International Committee. Registration is required.

To register, go to https://www.ncmich.edu/community-events/events/global-classroom-lecture.html

Weather for Agriculture From The Enviroweather Platform

April 24

4pm


Attend this free event at Folklor Wine & Cider to learn about weather for agriculture from the enviroweather platform, using enviroweather data to build your vineyard management plan, and hybrid grapes and whether they can survive warming winters. Speakers include Keith Mason, PhD, MSU Enviroweather; Derrick Vogel, Folklor Wine & Cider; and Esmaeil Nasrollahiazar, MSCU Extension NW Michigan. This program is supported with research grand funding from the Michigan Craft Beverage Council.


Please register online. Refreshments provided, wine & cider available for purchase.


folklorwinecider.com

Watercolor & Thread Collage Class

April 25th


CLASS FEE:$40 or $36 for members


All materials included. A beginner watercolor set, one brush, 5x7"or 6x6" heavy watercolor pad and embroidery floss all for you to keep!

Sharon will teach you 3 different embroidery stitches. How to use watercolors. We will have pens and markers for a collage of ideas. So why not take a leap and explore the exciting world of art? Let your creativity flow!


REGISTER: https://www.charlevoixcircle.org/classes-workshops or call 231-547-3554

Fireside Chat with Kay Marie Photography at VUE

April 25th


Join Kayla Dionne, owner of Kay Marie Photography, a Northern Michigan photographer who specializes in wedding and landscape photography.


It is in nature where Kayla finds her inspiration. This book was created in high hopes that its readers will find that same inspiration and admire all of the beauty Northern Michigan has to offer.


No tickets or reservations required.


vuecharlevoix.com

Dreaming of Summer with Dave Cisco

April 26th


Grab your friends and head to Lost Cellars to listen Dave Cisco perform!


Enjoy a glass of wine and a pizza while reminiscing of summer days past and yet to come.


No advance ticketing required.


lostvino.com

Student Research Project: The Siebert Family 1882-1925

April 26th


Attendees to this free event will learn how these student-researchers became interested in this work, their approach to discovery, what they’ve learned about Petoskey's Siebert family.


NCMC student-researchers have been working with Sociology and Anthropology Professor Kerri Finlayson to investigate the history of the Siebert family, who previously owned 120 acres of what is now the NCMC Natural Area.

Attendees will learn about how these researchers became interested in this work, their approach to discovery, what they’ve learned about the Siebert family.


About the Presenters:


Phoenix Backus - Phoenix is graduating in May with their Associate of Arts degree. Following graduation, Phoenix is heading to GVSU to begin working toward their Bachelor of Anthropology with a minor in Archaeology. Following this, Phoenix plans to obtain a master’s degree in Arts, Cultural Management, and Museum Studies.


Anna Ruhling - Anna is a current NCMC student focusing on humanities and the social sciences. Anna has a long-term plan of obtaining a master’s degree in classical archaeology due to a Rick Riordan-fueled love of mythology.


This is a FREE event. RSVPs are preferred but not required.


ncmich.edu

Pita Cruiser Opening Day!

April 26th


Opening Day April 26th!


Come get your Shawarma on and check out our new space at 311 Bridge St in Downtown Charlevoix


See you soon!

Pita Cruiser

Karaoke Night at The Happy Troll

April 26th


Happy Starts Here!


Join us for a fun night of drink specials, singing, and smiles!


No cover charge, ages 21+


*We would welcome donations for the Charlevoix Food Pantry*


thehappytroll.com

Northern Michigan Society for Human Resource Management HR Legal: FMLA/FLSA Event

April 26th


Join us for an in-depth seminar designed to equip Michigan business leaders with comprehensive knowledge about two critical employment laws: the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In today's dynamic business landscape, understanding these laws is paramount to ensuring compliance, avoiding legal pitfalls, and fostering a healthy workplace environment.


In this event, our very own board memeber and legal expert Laura Dinon will provide invaluable insights into FMLA and FLSA regulations specific to Michigan, offering practical guidance and strategies to effectively manage employee leave, wage and hour compliance, and related challenges. Whether you're a seasoned HR professional, a business owner, or a manager, this seminar will empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate these complex laws confidently.


eventbrite.com

1st Annual BBQ Cook Off At The Back Lot Charlevoix

April 27th


Attention all BBQ fans!!!

Please have enough food for at least 50 small samples. All dishes must be cooked on site. When signing up or emailing please indicate what time you would like to arrive to start cooking. Sample dishes and eating utensils will be provided. You will need to provide your own serving utensils. Limited spots available!


1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prize winners will be announced at 8pm. Thank you for all who participate and we can’t wait to see you April 27th.


thebacklot.com

Charlevoix Elks Community Blood Drive

April 29th


An hour of your time will save 3 local patients! @12735 US 31 N


Appointments preferred & walk-ins welcome.


To sign up:

Cal 1-866-mi-blood, visit www.versiti.org/mi, or scan the QR code.


All donors will receive a certificate for a free pint of Culver's custard!


Thank you for your generous gift!



1st Anniversary at Happy Troll

May 1st


Come & Celebrate our 1st Anniversary with us at The Happy Troll Deli & Pub! We appreciate YOU so stop in a get A FREE COFFEE & DONUT! We are excited to expand our support of local/regional businesses by offering East Jordan based, Backdraft Roasting Co. More Exciting News Coming Soon!


thehappytroll.com

Meditation & Sound Bath

March 3rd-June 16th


Class Dates to Register for:

April 7, 21

May 5, 19

June 2, 16

Join Lindsay Walter, certified meditation and breath work coach for a community meditation and breath work group class.

Each session includes a discussion and guided meditation blended with breath work and sound bath. 


Participants will leave feeling grounded, balanced, and relaxed. Classes are held at the Charlevoix Circle of arts on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month from 9:30-10:30am.



Please wear comfortable clothing, and bring a yoga mat, pillow, blanket, and water bottle. 

 (Floor surface is hard).

Minimum # of Participants to hold class = 1 

Maximum # of Participants = 10


charlevoixcircle.org

Art-Ventures Begins!

April 11th-May 16th


After school art class!

Pre-register at https://www.charlevoixcircle.org/art-ventures or call 231-547-3554.


Kids ages 6 - 12 get to be creative, try new techniques and explore a variety of materials. With art show finale!



SESSION of 6 CLASSES: APRIL 11 - MAY 16, 2024.

Time: Thursdays, 4 - 5:30 pm

Includes all supplies & snack!

NCMC Summer Learning Academy

June 24th-August 15th

 

For students entering grades 3rd - 8th

Classes held Monday - Thursday

9:00 am - 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm


Welcome to our Summer Learning Academy! Our academy is a dynamic and enriching program specially crafted for young minds eager to explore, learn, and have fun during the summer months. Through a mix of interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and educational games, participants will have the opportunity to delve into various subjects, develop new skills, and foster a love for learning.

Click here for the full schedule


The Okee Dokee Brothers at Great Lakes Center for the Arts-Family Friendly Event!

May 10th

EVENT INFORMATION

Northern Lakes Economic Symposium & Showcase

May 17th

EVENT INFORMATION

Rock The Lot At Odawa Casino

May 19th

EVENT INFORMATION

After Years of Delays, Trail Linking Boyne City with Charlevoix Back on Track


Work on the third phase of the non-motorized, multi-use Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail commenced recently when contractors began clearing the way for the trail’s extension.


Slated for completion this year, the 2.36-mile segment will begin at the north end of Springwater Beach Road (Evangeline/Bay Township line) and continue detached within the right-of-way on the Lake Charlevoix side of Boyne City-Charlevoix Road through Bay Township. Just east of the Village of Horton Bay, the trail will connect to the road’s wide shoulder through the village. The trail will utilize the road shoulder due to the close proximity of homes.


The trail has been envisioned for about 22 years, and under active development since about 2010, but after the completions of Phases 1 & 2, Phase 3 got off track during the pandemic. In the last year county staff, volunteer organizers, and stakeholders in northern Charlevoix County - particularly Bay, Hayes, and Evangeline townships - successfully jump-started the stalled plan.


The plan’s third phase, now underway, will be completed this year and will extend the southern leg by 2.36 miles, running north to Horton Bay.


No dates have been set for the two remaining phases, which account for the remaining six-plus miles that will connect the entire trail. However, the work to get Phase 3 completed has reconnected and re-engaged the three townships and the trail team. This fall the Charlevoix County Trail Team will begin conducting public outreach on plans to finish the trail.


trailscouncil.org

Get out on the water! 


The Sail Charlevoix Junior Sailing Program is looking forward to another successful season on Lake Charlevoix! 


Weekly Boyne City sessions begin the week of June 10 and run through June 27. 


Junior sailing sessions at our Depot Beach, Charlevoix location start the week of June 24 and continue for the season through August 9. In addition to Junior Sailing (ages 8-18) and racing (ages 10-18), we offer limited boat rentals and Adult Lessons. To learn more, ask questions, and register, please visit us at sailcharlevoix.org ⛵

Wineguys Restaurant Group presents the 27th Annual Morel Wine Dinner featuring Caymus Vineyards at CITY PARK GRILL


Experience the legendary annual fungi-infused, five-course pairings dinner, a sold-out tradition for 27 years. Thursday, May 16 at 6:30pm, delight in exquisite Caymus Vineyards wines alongside gourmet courses like Morel-Potato Gnocchi Duck Confit and Red Wine Braised Short Ribs. Join special guest Eric Bjorkman of Great Lakes Wine and Spirits for guided wine pairings. Discover Caymus Vineyards' rich history of family-owned excellence, crafting unique Cabernet Sauvignons in the heart of Napa Valley. Don't miss this unforgettable culinary journey. $130pp (plus tax & gratuity). CLICK for RESERVATIONS | Full Menu & Pairings | Call 231.347.0101 with questions.

Grants for Environment, Arts & Culture Awarded:


The Charlevoix County Community Foundation hosted two grant cycles in March, responding to requests from local nonprofit organizations working to address environmental needs as well as needs in arts, music, history, and culture. Thanks to donors who participate with the Community Foundation to make a difference close to home, a total of $112,495 in grants have been awarded to nonprofits between the two cycles.


For a complete list of grants, along with more details about each program supported, visit c3f.org.


A charitable organization dedicated to improving and enriching life in this area, the Charlevoix County Community Foundation accepts gifts from individuals, families, businesses, and civic groups and manages them as permanent endowment funds, which are carefully invested to grow over time. Each year C3F makes grants that support a wide variety of programs that make our region better by using a portion of the endowment earnings.


Visit c3f.org to learn more about how to make a tax-deductible donation to one of these endowment funds.


Applications are now being accepted for our next grant cycle, Community Priorities, which is open to requests from eligible nonprofit partners to meet needs and advance opportunities in Charlevoix County. Applications are due by Wednesday, May 1, 2024. The Community Foundation welcomes inquiries about applying for grants anytime at acousens@c3f.org. 

Haggard's is under new ownership!


After 55 successful years in the plumbing and heating industry, Bill and John Haggard decided to pass the pipe wrench down to long time employee and friend of 24 years, Frank Cesaro.


Frank, master plumber, and now the new owner of Haggard's has implemented some slight changes to the business name. Still respecting the Haggard brothers' years of hard work and the dedication to the business they built from the ground up, Frank decided to keep the wrenches turning while keeping the legacy of the Haggard name going strong.


With alot of thought, Frank made the decision to change the business name from Haggard's to Haggard's Plumbing and Heating Corporation.


haggardsplumbing.net

Mushroom House Tours are OPEN for 2024!


We are open11:00-3:00 daily for TOURS, the store will open May 1st!

We have doors and heat on the gem cars, it won't be open air and freezing for the month of April!


mushroomhousetours.com

WEATHERVANE RESTAURANT MOTHER’S DAY BUFFET


She gets the smiles, you get the thanks! We would be honored if you joined us for our Mother's Day Buffet.

Sunday, May 12 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Adults: $39 Children: $21 (4-10 yrs.)

CLICK HERE to view menu

CLICK HERE to make a reservation on-line, or call 231-547-4311.

Support Charlevoix Middle/High School Student Council Spirit Shirt Program


The Student Council has partnered with All-American T-Shirts for a Spirit Shirts program, producing terrific looking t-shirts that will be free to the school. Businesses can support the program by showcasing their business on the shirt through various advertising opportunities. Student Council Advisor Sarah Bronson can be reached at the Middle/High School for more information about how the student council will be using the t-shirt program, and more information about advertising can be found on All-American T-Shirts website or by calling 800-556-1380.


shirts.wehelpschools.com

Pet of The Week- Brandy!


Don't let the face fool you, Brandy is actually quite a lover!


Brandy was surrendered to us with her brother Oliver who was quickly adopted.


Brandy is very laid back and spends most of her days here just lounging in a comfy bed. When she is not napping she will gently seek out pets from our staff and volunteers.


She seems to get along well with other cats and may be more comfortable in a home with a feline friend.


charlevoixhumane.org

Castle Farms-Now Booking Graduation Parties!


Celebrate your graduation in style at Castle Farms' Rose Pavilion!


Our new party package offers affordable elegance, starting at $150 for weekdays, $200 for Fridays or Sundays, and $300 for Saturdays.


Enjoy a 3-hour event complete with tables and linens included. Elevate your celebration with optional Grazing Boards or Sliders.


Whether you're commemorating with classmates or sharing the moment with loved ones, our picturesque venue sets the stage for unforgettable memories. Book now and make your graduation truly special at Castle Farms!


castlefarms.com

New Study Shows Outdoor Recreation Contributes $1.15 Billion to Northwest Michigan Economy


The outdoor economy employs 4,712 workers in the 10 counties of northwest Lower Michigan and contributed $1.15 billion to the Gross Regional Product in 2022. That information comes from a new Outdoor Recreation Economic Impact Study for Northwest Michigan. The study was developed by Networks Northwest in partnership with the Alliance for Economic Success, the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, and Traverse Connect.

 

The study looks at the importance of outdoor recreation as an economic driver in the region. It provides baseline data and quantifies the impact of the outdoor economy. The study also includes recommendations for expanding on the strengths and opportunities in the industry.

 

“This study showcases the critical importance of the outdoor recreation industry in Northwest Michigan, as well as its potential for further business opportunity,” said Janie McNabb, CEO, Networks Northwest. “These recommendations underscore the need to work collaboratively for the benefit of both our economy and our natural resources.”

 

Findings and recommendations are based on a thorough analysis of labor market information, demographic data, business and industry trends, as well as individual interviews and a survey of more than 200 local companies. 

 

“The Outdoor Recreation Economic Impact Study aims to gain insight into the opportunities available in the recreational sector in our region,” said Stacie Bytwork, President, Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce and Networks Northwest board member. “This study assists with developing a plan to attract growth and make us stand out as a place of choice. With our numerous unique recreational assets in the region, we are grateful to be a part of this process and excited to work collaboratively towards implementing strategies that will benefit both our region and individual communities.”

 

The study shows that the region has almost double the concentration of agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting employment than national averages for regions of similar size. The region is 32% above the national average for spending on boats, trailers, campers, and recreational vehicles, and surpasses the national average in other sports equipment, and water sports equipment.

 

Opportunities for business investment and development are recommended in the following categories: Camping and camping equipment; bicycles; sports, recreation, and exercise equipment; and rental/repair of sports, recreation, and exercise equipment. 72.2% of businesses surveyed for the study have plans to grow or expand their businesses in the next three years.

 

A full copy of the study is available at nwm.org/OutdoorRec.

 

The project was funded by a 2023 Michigan Economic Development Corporation Collaborative Development Council Regional Grant. 

Raven Hill Weekly Update:

NCMC ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR COMMENCEMENT, NURSE PINNING CEREMONIES


North Central will celebrate Class of 2024 graduates on May 3


North Central Michigan College will mark the end of a successful academic year with two important ceremonies on May 3.

The college will hold its 64th annual commencement exercises at 7:30 p.m. inside Petoskey Plastics Arena in the college’s Student and Community Resource Center. More than 250 graduates will receive their diplomas. A reception for graduates and guests will follow the ceremony.


“Commencement is the exciting culmination of years of hard work by our students and faculty,” said NCMC President David Roland Finley. “We are thrilled to celebrate our students’ achievements and watch them take the next step into a successful future.”

Monica Peck, librarian and community leader, will provide the commencement address. Peck, who graduated from North Central in 2009, is director of the Boyne District Library. In 2022, Peck was named the Public Librarian of the Year by the Michigan Library Association. Four years prior, in 2018, she was named a Rising Star by Wayne State University, where she earned her Master of Library Science degree.

Peck serves as a trustee on the Charlevoix County Community Foundation Board and the Leadership Charlevoix County Board. She also serves on the Boyne City Chamber of Commerce Board and the Otsego County Library Board. She and her husband, Jordan, live in Gaylord and share a blended family with seven children.

“I’m honored to return to NCMC to give the commencement address,” Peck said. “It’s humbling to think I could contribute to an institution that has given me so much. When I attended my commencement in 2009, I remember the excitement that I felt, and I’m thrilled to share that with the class of 2024.”

During the ceremony, college officials will award honorary degrees of Education and Community Service to Pier and Renee Borra in recognition of their contributions to the healthcare field and to the college.

Donors to North Central since 2009, the Borras have supported many funding priorities, including the Healthy Investment and Building Tomorrow Together capital campaigns. The Borras have also supported student success initiatives, technology, and scholarships, including the Borra Nursing Pathway Scholarship. Thanks to their generosity, in 2023, McLaren Northern Michigan opened the Justin A. Borra Behavioral Health Center in Cheboygan to provide mental and behavioral health resources to those in need.

North Central’s nurse pinning ceremony, the annual tradition that marks the completion of students’ nursing coursework, will be held immediately prior to commencement, at 4 p.m. in Petoskey Plastics Arena. Twenty-six student-nurses will receive their pins. A reception for nurses and their families will follow the pinning ceremony.

Lily Wilcox, who graduated from North Central’s nursing program in 2019, will deliver the keynote address to the 2024 nursing graduates. Wilcox’s professional experience spans various settings, from medical-surgical care to her leadership role as a charge nurse in Emergency Medicine at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital.

Now a travel nurse serving Northern Michigan, Wilcox continues to exemplify excellence in emergency medicine. She also uses her experience to shape the next generation of nurses, serving as a clinical instructor and tutor for NCMC’s nursing program.

Both nurse pinning and commencement will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. For more information about both events, including a list of graduates by academic program, visit www.ncmich.edu/commencement.

North Central Michigan College is an open-door community college based in Petoskey with additional offerings in Cheboygan, Gaylord, and online. North Central’s mission is to provide exceptional, accessible, relevant higher education of and for the community. An Achieving the Dream Leader College with a designation of Veteran Friendly Gold by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, North Central is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Michigan Community College Athletic Association. Learn more at www.ncmich.edu.

Have a business or member success story? We want to hear it! Hitting a growth landmark, meeting a personal or financial business goal, adding to your team, being awarded industry certifications or recognition's… we want to share that accomplishment!

Membership in the Charlevoix Area Chamber of Commerce is open to all businesses, organizations and individuals. It is a policy of the Charlevoix Chamber that membership does not constitute political or issue endorsement.


Images used are provided by the business; business agrees to ownership and rights to use photos in promotions.

The easiest way to find jobs in the Charlevoix Area! Click here or read below for a list of jobs with our chamber members.


Absolute Enterprises

Construction Work


Big Brothers Big Sisters

Advocacy/Developmental Specialist


Brady's Carpet Cleaning

Carpet Cleaning Technician


Castle Farms

Bistro Tour Food Setup Leader

Assistant Venue Coordinator

Wine Room Associate


Charlevoix Area Community Pool

Certified Lifeguards

Swim Team Coach


Charlevoix Auto

Automotive Technician

Detailer/ Porter


Charlevoix Area Humane Society

Veterinary Technician

Kennel Attendant


Charlevoix Conservation District

Conservation Outreach Intern


Charlevoix County Commission on Aging

Boyne Area Senior Center Part Time Cook


Charlevoix County Community Foundation

Administrative Assistant


Charlevoix State Bank

Management Trainee


Cherry Republic

Assistant Retail Manager

Retail Ambassador

Retail Keyholder


City of Charlevoix

Dock Attendants

Full-Time Police Officer

Camp Counselors

Assistant Camp Director

Charlevoix Beautification Crew

Golf Grounds Maintenance



DCL

Welder

Inside Sales

Field Service Technician


Drost Landscaping

Multiple Seasonal Positions



Goodwill Northern Michigan

Sales Associate

Assistant Store Manager

Retail Team Lead


Harbor Industries

Assembler I

Assembler I (part time)

CNC Operator

Manufacturing Engineer


Horizon Bank

Customer Service Representative


JAX Northside

Restaurant Manager



Manthei Construction

Diesel Mechanic

Field Construction Laborer

Forklift Operator 

Gravel Train Truck Driver

Heavy Construction Foreman

Heavy Equipment Operator

Production Laborer - Demolding

Production Laborer - Pouring


Manthei Supply

Graphic Designer


Northern Community Mediation

Case Manager



Platinum Yacht Services

Seasonal Boat Detailer


The Happy Troll

Servers

Bartenders

Cashiers

Dishwashers



Wineguys Restaurant Group

Servers

Bartenders

Food Runners

Dishwashers

Hosts

Server Assistants

Restaurant Management and Event Coordination Internship



For more information on these openings view our Jobs page by clicking the link below! Is your business hiring? Send us the position information and we will post it!

business.charlevoix.org/jobs

Please visit the below resources for other job opportunities in our area.


mynorth.com 

michiganworks.org

networksnorthwest.org 

petoskeynews.com

thrive45.org/jobs 

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call the Chamber at 231.547.2101 or info@charlevoix.org for more information