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

Holidays at the Castle! Experience a Live Nativity Scene

December 18th


Live Nativity Scene: Join us on December 4th and December 18th, from 5 PM to 7 PM, in the enchanting Queen’s Courtyard.


Watch as the story of the first Christmas comes to life amidst the beautiful castle setting, featuring live animals provided by Hungry Ducks. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to come and share in the spirit of the holidays. Don’t miss this unique and memorable holiday experience! 



castlefarms.com

Crafternoon for Kids: No Sew Snowmen

December 19th


Stop by the Youth Activity Center anytime between 4pm and 5pm to create a cute snowman plush; no sewing is required! We will have buttons, felt, and other decorations available to make each snowman unique. Whether you’re looking to create a DIY gift or a new friend to keep you company, this program is perfect for you! Recommended for ages 5 and up. No registration is required. While supplies last.


charlevoixlibrary.org

Shop Men's Night Out with Lavender Hill Farm

December 20th


Calling all last-minute shoppers! Downtown Petoskey's Men’s Night Out is the perfect opportunity to wrap up your holiday shopping while enjoying sips, snacks, and gift-wrapping at various locations downtown.


Make sure to stop by the Town Shop at 208 Howard Street, where you’ll find something special for everyone on your list! We will be offering free gift-wrapping and games to win 25% off one item!


The Town Shop is open 7 days a week, making it easy to grab those last-minute treasures. Don’t miss out on this fun and stress-free holiday shopping experience! 


lavenderhillfarm.com

Folklor Wine & Cider: Holiday Market Series

December 21st


Join Folklor Wine & Cider for their Holiday Market on Saturday, December 21 from 12:00 - 5:00 to shop from local artists and artisans, enjoy a cup of mulled cider and join in a carol or two. Sense of Place TC will also be serving traditional Alpine Raclette Cheese. 



Markets take place at Folklor's winery tasting room located at 16820 Ferry Road, Charlevoix, MI.


folklorwinecider.com

Rayders vs. Rotary Food Drive

December 21st


Join us Saturday, December 21 for a friendly competition between Charlevoix Football (Family Fare) VS. Rotary Club of Charlevoix (Oleson's Food Store).


If Charlevoix Football raises more, Rotary of Charlevoix donates additional money. If Rotary of Charlevoix raises more, Charlevoix Football players perform pushups!


rotaryclubofcharlevoix.org

Game Day Bloody Mary Bar at Gypsy Distillery

December 22nd


Gypsy Distillery's famous Bloody Mary Bar is back by popular demand!


Got the family together for the holidays? Skip brunch and head in to build an ultimate bloody with your toppings of choice! It's a whole meal! Not a bloody fan? We've got all the fixings for a great mimosa, too!

Enjoy the game on our BRAND NEW, massive flat screen TV - There's not a bad seat in the house!


Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just here for the fun and drinks, we’ve got the perfect atmosphere for everyone. It's a win-win!


gypsydistillery.com

Candle Making Class at VUE

December 22nd


Join us for a fun candle making class where you can scent & create your own candle, then adorn the glass holder with dried dried flowers, all while enjoying the company of friends!


All supplies, instructions, and a happy hour drink (wine, mocktail, or soft drink) are included. $35 per person; please click the link below for tickets (seats are limited). Cheers!


vuecharlevoix.com

Charlevoix Elks Club #2856 Community Blood Drive

December 23rd


Give the gift of blood this winter during the season of giving!


The Charlevoix Elks Club #2856 will be hosting a blood drive on December 23rd in the community room.


Register HERE today!

Charlevoix Film Club: The Lake House

December 23rd


Are you a film enthusiast? The Charlevoix Film Club will meet on the 4th Monday of the month at 5pm in Community Room B. They will screen a movie at 5pm and have a lively discussion afterwards! All are welcome. Led by Colin Morris.


charlevoixlibrary.org

Dueling Pianos at Gypsy Distillery

December 26th


Come on out and celebrate the holidays with a fun dueling piano show at Gypsy Distillery! Cass and Jake will be taking your song requests and playing all your favorite hits from 6-8pm.


gypsydistillery.com

Paint & Sip at VUE

December 29th


VUE welcomes you to join us for a fun paint and sip event where you can create your own beautifully hand-painted pair of champagne flutes with friends! All supplies, instructions, and a happy hour drink (wine, mocktail, or soft drink) are included. $45 per person; please click the link below for tickets (seats are limited). Cheers!


Tickets

2nd Annual NYE Party at Marek's Harbor Grill

December 31st


Join us Tuesday, December 31st for our Second Annual New Year’s Eve Party! 

We’ll be serving lunch starting at 11:30 AM, also from 4:00 to 8:30 PM, enjoy our Crab Leg Dinner Special served with butter and lemon! 


At 10:00 PM, the party kicks off featuring specialty cocktails, and with special guest DJ JACK taking over 1:00 AM 


Mark your calendars, bring your friends, and let’s celebrate the end of 2024 in style!


mareksharborgrill.com

New Years Eve Masquerade at Gypsy Distillery

December 31st


New Year’s Eve Masquerade at Gypsy Distillery 


Step into a night of glamour and celebration at Gypsy Distillery, as we bid farewell to 2024 and ring in the New Year!


DJ ODZ will be spinning the hottest tracks to keep you dancing all night and our countdown to midnight will include a stunning confetti cannon celebration!!


 Dress to Impress:

Put on your most dazzling attire in black, gold, silver, pearls, or sparkles. Don’t forget your mask to complete the masquerade look! (Must show face upon entry)

 

Shuttle Service: Your ticket includes convenient shuttle transportation to and from our downtown location by 'Sunset Premier Shuttle'!


21+ Event Only!


Presale Ticket Purchase available Dec. 1st at 12:01am!


Tickets

Zero Proof 2025-NYE Event @ Cafe Meria

December 31st


Tickets are LIVE for Zero Proof 2025 - NYE Event @ Cafe Meria Charlevoix!


Ring in 2025 with style, flavor, and vibrant energy—zero-proof, full of life.


This exclusive celebration includes:

Unlimited handcrafted mocktails featuring tea-infused syrups, fresh juices, and superfood ingredients.


Gourmet bites to ignite your palate.

Festive vibes & lively music to keep the energy flowing.

Midnight countdown & toast to start 2025 with intention and connection.

December 31, 2024 | 8:00 PM - 12:30 AM

Cafe Meria, Charlevoix


Early Bird Tickets: $30 (Limited capacity—only 25 spots available!)

Tickets will sell out fast—don’t wait! Grab yours now and celebrate with us in style.

Get your tickets here: tinyurl.com/MeriaNYE

Bridge Drop Charlevoix

December 31st


Ring in the New Year at Charlevoix’s Bridge Drop!


This family-friendly celebration features fun activities for all ages, live music at local restaurants, and the highlight of the night—the iconic Bridge Drop countdown! Gather with friends and family to watch as Charlevoix’s beloved bridge lights up and descends at midnight, creating an unforgettable New Year's experience.


Don't miss this cherished local tradition!


bridgedrop.org


Bring in the New Year at Castle Farms!

January 4th

EVENT INFORMATION



French Food & Wine Event

January 11th

EVENT INFORMATION



St Mary School Pancake Breakfast

January 12th

EVENT INFORMATION


Relaxed Performance: Goodnight Moon & The Runaway Bunny

January 18th

EVENT INFORMATION

Frostbite Trail: Comfort Food

January 25th

EVENT INFORMATION

Blue Cross Blue Shield Promotes Healthy Holidays


Whether its physical or mental health, Blue Cross Blue Shield has resources to help you stay healthy during the holidays.


No one wants to get sick ahead of some fun time off from work and school, especially around the holidays. But since the holidays overlap with flu season, the possibility is always there. And while the holiday season can bring us joy as we gather with family and friends to share meals, make memories and celebrate the end of the year, the responsibilities of planning and preparing to keep traditions alive can bring new sources of stress that can threaten our everyday calm.


Luckily there are preventative measures you can take while traveling to lower your odds of getting sick, and there are healthy coping strategies you can engage in during the stressful times of the holidays. Blue Cross Blue Shield is here to prepare you for a healthy holiday season.


mibluedaily.com

Bergmann Center Play and Work Cafe Survey


We are thinking of different way to help the community. We are considering opening a work and play cafe.


A work and play cafe is a unique space designed to support both parents and their children. It offers a clean, safe, and comfortable environment where parents can enjoy a cup of coffee, connect with other parents, or work while their children play and explore. The cafe is equipped with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of power outlets, making it an ideal spot for parents to catch up on tasks.


Would you be interested in bringing your child to a play and work cafe where you can work or socialize while your child plays? Please take our survey below:


https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X8TZ65G

Archival Art & Photo Printing with Images by Morris



Archival art/photo printing using Giclee inks is once again available in downtown Charlevoix. Images by Morris in collaboration with Aartvark Gallery welcomes you to bring us your treasured photographs taken on your phone, drone, DSLR or mirrorless camera to be printed on our new printer. We are able to print images up to 24” on the short side on site at 413 Bridge Street. Larger images are available as custom orders.

Open 11:00AM to 4:00PM Monday - Saturday.

Gerry, Colin and I look forward to meeting with you to help share some memories with family and friends for the holidays.



Imagesbymorris

Pet of The Week-Azazle!



This sweet senior is Azazle, also known as Azzy. Azazle came to us as a transfer from the Saginaw area and he is ready to say goodbye to the city life and focus on a life of relaxion in good ole Northern Michigan.


Azazle is a calm and gentle guy and would do in a quiet home. He enjoys beds and naps like most senior citizens and does seem to walk well on a leash.


As is the case with many senior shepherds, Azzy does have some hip issues and is on some medication for pain management. He seems to be tolerant of other dogs that give him his space and we believe he would do well with cats.


charlevoixhumane.org

CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF ARTS ACQUIRES BUILDING THROUGH GENEROUS DONATION


Charlevoix Circle of Arts (CCA) is thrilled to announce the donation of the historic building it has called home for 16 years, thanks to a remarkable gift from longtime supporter and emeritus board member, Bob Grove. Grove’s donation secures a permanent home for CCA, ensuring that the organization can continue to make a lasting impact on the arts in Charlevoix and beyond.


Bob Grove, a Michigan Technological University graduate and Boyne City resident, is an advocate for the local arts community and a leader in Charlevoix’s business landscape. Grove operates Nu-Core Inc., a manufacturing business in Charlevoix, and is also associated with Tall Pines Investment, which is currently renovating the Dilworth Hotel in Boyne City. His support for CCA began in 2008 when he offered the building, which was once the town’s library, as a venue for the Circle’s first exhibit.


Since then, the Circle of Arts has grown into a vibrant center for art exhibitions, educational programs, and community events. “Under the leadership of Sarah Matye, our Executive Director, and the dedicated board and staff, Charlevoix Circle of Arts has become a cultural anchor in our community,” said Grove.


“I’m proud of the stability and growth I’ve seen, and it felt like the right time to make this contribution to ensure the Circle’s future.” Sarah Matye expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the Circle, noting that this donation is a transformative milestone. “Bob’s gift allows us to make long-term investments in the facility, enhancing our capacity to serve the community with expanded programs and events,” said Matye. “The support Bob has shown over the years has been invaluable, and this gift ensures that the Circle is here to stay.”


Charlevoix Circle of Arts continues to offer diverse exhibitions, classes for all ages, and special events that bring people together to celebrate creativity. With the stability of building ownership, CCA looks forward to even greater contributions to Charlevoix’s cultural life. For more information about Charlevoix Circle of Arts please call (231) 547-3554 or visit www.charlevoixcircle.org.  

The Weathervane: Join us for the Holidays


HOLIDAY HOURS:

CHRISTMAS EVE (Tues., Dec. 24) 

Prix Fixe Menu Served: 4 - 8:30 p.m. (COST: $69 per person)


CHRISTMAS DAY (Wed., Dec. 25) 

(CLOSED)


Thurs. Dec. 26 - Mon. Dec. 30

Lunch & Dinner Served: 11:30 am - 8:30 pm


NEW YEAR'S EVE (Tues., Dec. 31) 

Lunch Served: 11:30 am - 4 pm

Prix Fixe Menu: 4 - 9 pm (COST: $79 per person)

Bar open until 1 am


NEW YEAR'S DAY (Wed., Jan. 1)

 Lunch & Dinner Served: 11:30 am - 8:30 pm


staffordsweathervane.com

Red Mesa Grill Holiday Hours Update:


Red Mesa Grill Boyne City will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and OPEN for regular business hours on NYE!


redmesagrill.com




Consumers Energy Adds Enough Clean Energy to Power Nearly 400,000 Homes in 2024


Through its own expansion and partnerships with development companies, farmers, and other stakeholders across the state, Consumers Energy announced renewable energy projects in 2024 that will bring 691 megawatts of clean energy and energy storage online in the coming years. The projects include wind, solar, and renewable natural gas facilities (RNG) as well as battery storage capacity to harness the energy generated.



Consumers has some of the most aggressive clean energy plans in the nation, including bringing 8,000 megawatts of solar online by 2040 and achieving net zero carbon emissions from its electric generation and distribution infrastructure. Projects announced and begun this year bring the company closer to achieving those goals and advancing Consumers Energy’s Reliability Roadmap, the company’s glidepath to building the stronger, smarter grid of the future. 


consumersenergy.com

Five courses. Five wines. Ooo la la!


Celebrate the season with Jax’s FRENCH HOLIDAY WINE DINNER this Thursday, December 19 at 6:30pm. Feast on traditional French flavors: Apple Prosciutto Cranberry Brie Crostini, Pan Seared Scallops, Coq Au Vin, Grilled Lamb Chops and Fresh Berry Crisp Turnover. Tom Tomalka of AHD Vintners will guide guests through perfectly paired French wines. $65/person (plus tax & gratuity). Reservations required: CLICK or call 231.437.6400. For more info about Wineguys Restaurant Group pairing dinners, visit wineguysgroup.com/calendar

LANDSCAPE LOGIC & BARRON TITLE AGENCY MATCHING $250 AT OLESON’S FRIDAY DECEMBER 20TH & 21ST TO PROVIDE CRITICAL NEEDS FOR STRUGGLING NEIGHBORS


Landscape Logic is matching $250 in donations at Oleson’s Food Store in Charlevoix on Friday, December 20th to raise money for The Salvation Army.


Barron Title Agency is matching $250 in donations at Oleson’s Food Store in Charlevoix on Saturday, December 21st to raise money for The Salvation Army. 


The Salvation Army of Petoskey provides near $100,000 in Emergency Financial Assistance to help struggling neighbors in Charlevoix County with critical needs such as rent, heat and electricity each year. Staying indoors? You can also donate at SAPetoskey.org.


Munson Embarks on OMH Regional Hospital Transformation Project in Gaylord


Investing $33.6 million, providing a higher level of inpatient care and specialty services for the region


Munson Healthcare is proud to announce a significant expansion and renovation project at Otsego Memorial Hospital (OMH), marking a pivotal step towards its designation as a regional hospital. This transformation initiative represents a $33.6 million investment aimed at enhancing inpatient capabilities and expanding specialty services for the community and beyond.


As OMH transitions to a regional hospital, this milestone underscores Munson Healthcare's commitment to enhancing patient care quality and experience. The project, slated to span over two years, will commence this winter and will encompass comprehensive updates to both the birthing center and acute care facilities. Some of the details of the expansion include the following elements:

  • The Birthing Center at OMH will see significant upgrades, including an increase in Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Postpartum rooms from four to seven, the addition of two to three triage rooms, and the introduction of an antepartum room.
  • The center will also feature water birth capabilities and a dedicated C-section surgical suite with a recovery room.
  • Meanwhile, the hospital inpatient departments will see its ICU beds grow from five to ten, and inpatient beds will be adjusted to include five private rooms and four private isolation rooms, along with dedicated nursing stations.


"This transformational project marks a significant milestone for Munson Healthcare and the communities we serve," said Kirsten Korth-White, Munson Healthcare East Region President. "By expanding our facilities and enhancing our services, we are not only meeting the current healthcare needs of our region but also preparing for the future."


The renovation efforts are part of Munson Healthcare's broader Regional Care Transformation Plan, aimed at optimizing resources and ensuring exceptional patient experiences throughout the east region, extending from the Eastern Upper Peninsula to Grayling and beyond. In August 2024, Munson Healthcare announced an additional $15 million investment in an Ambulatory Surgery Center in Gaylord, which will bring a total investment to the Gaylord and surrounding communities of over $48 million in total. 


munsonhealthcare.org

Can you believe that CHRISTMAS is NEXT WEEK?!?!


Wineguys Restaurant Group makes holiday shopping simple with ONE CARD and FOUR RESTAURANTS. BONU$ GIFT CARD DEAL: FREE $20 GIFT certificate for every $100 gift card purchase. Use at all FOUR Wineguys restaurants, including Jax Northside, Palette Bistro, City Park Grill and Roast & Toast. Perfect for corporate gifts, Mom and Dad, and the last-minute special someone on your list. Share the holiday spirit and all things Wineguys. Gift cards are valid for food, beverages and merchandise. BUY ONLINE or call 231.437.6400. Offer valid thru 12/24/24.

Get your Charlevoix Area Humane Society "Big Ticket Raffle Ticket" today!


Win round trip air for two, luxury accommodations for 6 night in Hawaii, or $10,000.00! This year, second place is $1,000.00 and third is $500.00!


Tickets are $50, and less than 1000 are sold. You can stop in at the shelter 614 Beardsley St, or The HomeAgain Upscale Resale store 118 Water Street to pick up yours. or you call the shelter and order yours over the phone, you can asl click here at www.charlevoixhumane.org and get yours on line.


Drawing is Friday December 27th 4:00pm at the Shelter.

Shop the Charlevoix Circle Market Through Dec. 28th!


CCA’s annual Holiday mARkeT, a festive showcase & sale of unique, locally crafted gifts and artisanal treasures. We invite the community to experience the magic of handcrafted holiday shopping!


With contributions from dozens of local makers, jewelers, and artists, there’s something for everyone—perfect for gift-giving or treating yourself. Market is open Monday-Friday 11am-4pm & Saturdays 11am-3pm. Closed Dec. 24 & 25. 


charlevoixcircle.org

Double the IMPACT of your year-end giving!


HELP Challenge Mountain UNLOCK a $10,000 MATCH! Thanks to Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, all year-end gifts will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $10,000—doubling your impact and helping to meet our $40,000 goal in celebration of 40 years of changing lives. We’re asking for fellow Chamber member support to impact more lives, to provide more programming, and to continue supporting people with disabilities. Your support will unlock the $10,000 match and ensure we can continue bringing adaptive recreation to our communities for the next 40 years! DONATE TODAY | Learn more about Challenge Mountain at challengemtn.org.

The Charlevoix Conservation District is in the process of preparing the 2025 Charlevoix County Plat Book. We are currently seeking ads from northern Michigan businesses, and photos from residents and visitors alike!  

 

Businesses interested in placing an ad please contact Kyra at 231-582-6193, or download the ad forms from our website at www.charlevoixcd.org by clicking on the "County Plat Books" tab on the home page. Pricing and ad sizes are also available on the website. Ad deadline is March 7th, 2025.

 

To share photos, please download the Photo Release Form and email the signed form and photos to: charlevoixcd@macd.org The form is located under the "County Plat Books" tab on our website. Please title email as: 2025 Plat Book Photos.  Photo deadline is February 1st.

 

Photo requirements:  photos from Charlevoix County that promote its natural beauty. People and pets may be in the photos. Due to limited space, only photos that end up on the cover page will receive photo credit.  

 

The books are printed every 3 years and commonly purchased by residents, landowners, visitors and resorters, realtors, hunters and more. For questions, or more information, please call our office at 231-582-6193.  

 

The 2022 Plat Book is now available at a discounted price through the conservation district office only. Visit us at 303 North St. in Boyne City.  Follow us on Facebook!

You can wish everyone a Merry Christmas and also support your local Food Pantry!


Send a Christmas Greeting from your family or business to readers of the Weekly Choice, Charlevoix County News, or Michigan MoneySaver all over Northern Michigan.


We are running greeting ads in the Christmas week paper and donating $25 from each $50 greeting ad


Contact Office@CharlevoixCountyNews.com for more information!

C3F Awards $90,935 in Grants for Youth Needs

 

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation (C3F) responded to grant requests from nonprofit partners, schools and municipalities supporting the needs of the youth of Charlevoix County.


Thanks to donors who look to the Community Foundation to make a difference close to home, grants have been awarded to programs and services that will work to improve the quality of life for our youngest citizens.

 

Each year, grant applications are reviewed by the C3F Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) who serve as the decision-making body for these grants, with preference given to their priority areas of youth mental health and school atmosphere. The YAC, which is made up of sixteen high school students from across Charlevoix County, has been a core part of C3F since 1994. This year, the YAC recommended grants to 14 local organizations totaling $74,100, with C3F donor advisors adding another $16,835, for a total of $90,935 in grantmaking. YAC President Lindsey Jibson, stated, “This year’s grantmaking was a tremendous success. The team worked diligently to examine each grant to consider their full potential of impacting youth.” YAC Vice President, Emma Patten, added, “This cycle was one of the best that I have participated in.”

 

Mental health needs for youth took center stage, with seven organizations addressing this issue. Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan will receive funds to support matching five youth with dedicated mentors. Child and Family Services of Northwestern Michigan will create an outdoor space for families at Safe Haven North, including a heavy-duty swing set. Child Abuse Prevention & Education Council will receive support to host their annual CAPE Conference. East Jordan Public Schools will purchase supplies for social-emotional regulation tools for use in the Student Success Room, playground, and hallways. Northern Michigan Equine Therapy will get help to purchase new tack and equipment for therapy horses and their clients to enjoy equine assisted services. Planned Parenthood of Michigan’s grant will support the creation of a sexual health education resource toolkit, a youth and adult advisory board, and continuation of comprehensive, medically accurate and inclusive sexual health education. Finally, The Depot Jordan Valley Teen Center will send their teens to equine therapy sessions as an extension of the mentoring and connections they have already created.

 

Recreational opportunities will also receive a boost with grant support. Beaver Island Historical Society will provide a week long daytime camp for 50 youth from 4-13 years of age which builds upon wellbeing, sense of place, acceptance, and cultural diversity. A grant to Camp Daggett will support landscaping to address runoff issues and the creation of a hammock lounge in “Downtown Daggett.” Crooked Tree Arts Center received support to offer a professional dance mentor residency to work with a group of pre-professional dance students to enrich confidence, self-motivation, and a sense of community. Lastly, Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore will receive funds for essential starter kits, financial aid, and vital program support to new Girl Scout Troops in the Charlevoix County region.

 

Three organizations received grants to enhance educational opportunities for youth. North Central Michigan College Foundation will receive support for scholarships and program expenses for Charlevoix County students to participate in their Summer Learning Academy (SLA) program for students in 3rd-8th grade. A PoWeR! Book Bags grant will help purchase materials supporting language, literacy, and human interactions for their free bags for kids. Finally, Raven Hill Discovery Center will get help to provide field trip/outreach programs to 50 students, in addition to teachers and chaperones, at 10 Charlevoix County schools connecting them to science, history and the arts.

 

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation accepts gifts of all sizes and for many purposes. Those contributions are professionally managed to generate income that is used to make grants supporting worthwhile programs, projects, and initiatives right here at home. Currently, more than 328 separate funds make up the Community Foundation, each one created by an individual, family, business, or nonprofit agency. With assets of over $64 million, the Community Foundation has made grants totaling more than $39 million since 1992.

 

For more information about the Charlevoix County Community Foundation, or to view their 2025 grant calendar, contact the Foundation office at (231) 536-2440 or visit the organization’s website at www.c3f.org.

Northwest Michigan Employers Secure Over $1.3 Million to Train and Upskill 695 Employees


Northwest Michigan employers are celebrating a transformative boost for workforce development, with over $1.3 million awarded through the first round of 2025 Going PRO Talent Fund grants. This funding will provide critical training opportunities for 695 employees, including on-the-job and classroom training for 178 apprentices across the region.


The grants will benefit a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, construction, automotive, healthcare, energy, hospitality, education, and nonprofits. These investments underscore the commitment of local businesses to workforce development and innovation.


“During this first round of 2025, our team collaborated with several new employers eager to upskill their workforce,” said Rob Dickinson, Regional Director of Business Services at Northwest Michigan Works!. “While $1.3 million has been awarded to our region, local companies are matching that with an additional $8 million investment in their employees. This dedication is inspiring. 


The Going PRO Talent Fund has truly transformed lives—empowering individuals and strengthening businesses across our region. We’re thrilled to continue helping employers leverage this incredible program.”


In this cycle, 42 employers in northwest Michigan received funding, with awards averaging $31,337. Individual grants ranged from under $2,000 to over $200,000, showcasing the program’s flexibility to meet diverse business needs.


Statewide, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has distributed $42.7 million in Going PRO Talent Fund grants to 697 businesses. The funding will train 8,089 new hires and enhance the skills of 14,692 current employees beginning in January 2025.


About the Going PRO Talent Fund


The Going PRO Talent Fund supports Michigan businesses in developing the highly skilled talent needed for success. Through strategic investments in training, the program bridges skill gaps, enhances employee retention, and fosters business growth.


For more information on workforce development initiatives and opportunities, contact your Northwest Michigan Works! Business Services Representative by visiting nwm.org/businessservices.

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.

Advisacare

Administrative Assistant


Bartlett's Home Interiors

Retail Sales Associate


Big Brothers Big Sisters

Mentoring Specialist for Charlevoix & Emmet Counties


Biggby Coffee Charlevoix

Barista


Charlevoix Auto

Service Advisor


Charlevoix County

Deputy Probate and Juvenile Register



Charlevoix County Commission on Aging

Boyne Area Senior Center Cook

CNA/Homemaker

Health Care Services Coordinator


Charlevoix Public Library

Youth Services Library Assistant



Citizens National Bank

Universal Banker-Petoskey

Universal Banking Manager


DCL

General Labor

Purchasing Assistant



Goodwill Northern Michigan

Retail Team Lead

Assistant Store Manager

Store Associate


Harbor Industries

Assembler I

Assembler I (Part-Time)

Assembler I (Seasonal)

Manufacturing Engineer

Maintenance


Horizon Bank

Universal Banker


Irish Boat Shop

Marine Technician


North Central Michigan College

Grants Manager


Northwest Michigan Works

Chief Financial Officer


Rogers Dermatology

Receptionist


The Happy Troll Deli & Pub

Servers

Cooks

Dishwasher


Sail Charlevoix

Program Director


Smoke On The Water

Sous Chef/Line Cook


Walloon Lake Association

Director of Finance


Walstrom Marine

Marine Technician


Wineguys Restaurant Group

Servers-Jax Northside

Hosts

Bartenders-Jax Northside

Back of House

Barista-Roast & Toast

Line Cook- Roast & Toast

Restaurant Manager


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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