IN THIS ISSUE

• Legislative Advocacy: Governor's Breakfast
• Economic Development: New ED Hire, Outdoor Recreation Study, Bumstead at Fab-Lite
• Leadership & Professional Development: Cohort Brings 'Paws'-itive Change, Free Canva Workshop
• Registrations LIVE for the Annual Chamber Golf Outing
• New Investors, Investor Updates, Ribbon Cuttings, Anniversaries
• ...and more!

Manistee Area Chamber at the Governor's Breakfast

Chamber President & CEO, Stacie Bytwork, attended the 46th Annual Governor's Breakfast with Governor Whitmer, legislators, business professionals, and schools across Northern Michigan, hosted by the Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce.

"We appreciate our fellow colleague's commitment to fostering collaboration and cooperation among all stakeholders throughout the state!" says Bytwork.

Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes Andrew Stafford as its new Director, Economic Development.

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.

“I’m incredibly excited to begin working for the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce," said Stafford. "By fostering collaboration and innovation, I hope to support the Chamber’s mission and become an active member of the Manistee community.”

Outdoor Recreation Economic Impact Study for Northwest Michigan

Outdoor recreation is found to contribute $1.15 billion to the Northwest Michigan's economy in a latest study 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 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.

Senator Bumstead visits Fab-Lite

Senator Bumstead paid a visit to Manistee's very own Fab-Lite, Inc!

There, they toured Fab-Lite's facilities. They discussed topics including the company's history and future, as well as current costs of raw materials.

Employees had an opportunity to raise their local concerns, including affordable housing, trusted childcare, and food insecurity.

Leadership Brings 'Paws'-itive Change to First Street Beach Dog Park

On Friday April 9, the Manistee Area Leadership 23/24 Cohort took the dogs to the park to kick off their class project: upgrading the dog park found on First Street Beach.

The upgrades planned to take place are; adding running water, new fencing with possible expansion, and adding agility structures. With Manistee being a dog-friendly community, the Leadership Cohort felt this project would benefit not only the four-legged residents of Manistee but all the residents of Manistee.

The leadership group will work with partners, local businesses, and volunteer groups as a collaborative effort to ensure the project’s success. Local businesses will have the opportunity to be a sponsors of the program through financial donations. If you or your businesses are interested in supporting this project please contact Lacy Crummey at Lcrummey@wmisd.org.

FREE CANVA WORKSHOP

Tuesday, May 7, 9:00 - 11:00 AM

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.

Chamber UnTapped: Less Than a Month Away!

Thursday, May 16, 2024, Portage Point Resort

Chamber UnTapped is fast approaching! It's time to start planning your evening at Chamber UnTapped on Thursday May 16, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM, at Portage Point Resort.

Enjoy food and conversation as you mingle with familiar and emerging professionals across Manistee County, featuring live music by Johnny Pomeroy.

Celebrate the warmer season coming ahead! This Chamber UnTapped sponsored by Jeff and Zachary Reau of Edward Jones.

2024 Chamber Golf Outing: Registrations Are Live!

Tuesday, June 18, 2024, Crystal Mountain

Tickets are now available for the Annual Chamber Golf Outing, presented by Smith & Eddy Insurance and Frankenmuth Insurance!

Come dressed alike and ready to swing your golf club to victory at Crystal Mountain. Whether you are a golfing pro or are looking to get started, we hope to see you on the green.

Don't forget this year's theme of twins and mirrors! How might YOU match your team member?

It's Time To Plan for Forest Festival!

Forest Festival will be here before you know it!

Submit your application for the Independence Day Parade by May 1 to get the Early Bird Discount. The final deadline for all parade applicants is June 20. The Independence Day Parade will be held on July 4, at 10:00am right on River Street. SHOUT OUT TO OUR PARADE SPONSORS: Spicer Group Inc. and Edward Jones - Jeff Reau!

And don't forget to send us your planned event during Forest Festival! We want to make sure you get added to our digital brochure. Send us your event by June 8 to be accepted into the brochure. All event submissions after the deadline will only go on the website.

We always look for ways to get your name out there. For more information, please contact Carmen Kott at carmen@manisteechamber.com or 231-723-2575 to discuss your options.

Please welcome our new Chamber investor!

Homes by Kerri LLC: Having called Manistee her home since 1983, Mackey possesses in-depth knowledge on the Manistee area and is dedicated to go the extra mile for her clients. Dubbed the "Adopt a Pet Realtor", Kerri Mackey also sponsors a pet adoption for every home she sells. Mackey treats you not just as a client but a friend for life.

Kaleva Art Gallery: The Kaleva Art Gallery is a cooperative of local Kaleva artists who create items of beauty and functionality.

The gallery is hosted in the oldest structure in town, dating back pre-1900, with an interesting history and many stories to tell. They are open 12 - 4 PM Fridays and Sundays and 10 AM - 4 PM on Saturdays.

GRAND OPENING: The Piping Plover in Downtown Manistee

Friday, May 24, 4:00PM

385 River Street, Manistee MI

Mark your calendars and join us for the ribbon cutting and GRAND OPENING of one of our latest investors, The Piping Plover, Manistee in Downtown Manistee.



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.

Memorial Day Parade

Monday, May 27, 10:00 AM, River Street

The United Veterans Council is putting on the Memorial Day Parade. It will start at River and Division Street and will culminate at the gazebo on Veterans Memorial Park. Further details will be shared at a closer date.

Congratulations to Dr. Shrink Inc. on celebrating 32 years of service!

The Ideal Kitchen celebrates 18 years!

Join them this Saturday, April 20 for Saladino Smoke food truck fare, food demonstrations, and special wine tastings with various chocolates from The Alpine Chocolat Haus.

COVE Presents: 'Sole Survivor' of the Railroad Killer w/ Holly K Dunn

Friday, April 19, 6:00 PM, Vogue Theatre



Holly K Dunn, the only known survivor of the Railroad Serial Killer, will hold a FREE presentation at the Vogue Theatre, Manistee MI. As featured in A&E "I Survived" and 48 Hours "Lived to Tell" Dunn will share her story, serving to educate and inspire the community.

This presentation is presented by COVE (Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters).

The Armory Youth Project: Soar Into the Future

Friday, April 19, 5:30 - 7:00PM

Celebrate Earth Day with the Armory Youth Project and view live birds of prey with a one-of-a-kind program from North Sky Raptor Sanctuary. Youth, parents, educators and all are encouraged to attend!

3rd Annual Great Lakes Environmental Festival (GLEF)

Saturday, April 20, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

The 3rd annual GLEF festival will host both the Environmental Expo in the commons and featured speakers in the auditorium.

This festival is FREE admission!

MacBeth & Co: Opening for the Season

Thursday, May 23, 8011 First Street Onekama, MI

In about one month, Mac Beth & Co will open for the season! MacBeth & Co offers a wide selection of decorative home accessories, stationary, children's clothing, original artwork, tableware, toys, women's apparel, and linen.

Have an update for a future newsletter? Let us know!

Whether you have an event you would like the Chamber to attend, contact details in need of revision, or other updates, email Blade Gates at communications@manisteechamber.com.

COMMUNITY TRANSFORMERS

These businesses have gone above and beyond to invest in the Chamber,

ultimately benefiting our community. Thank you!