OVERNIGHT US-31 BASCULE BRIDGE CLOSURES IN CHARLEVOIX TO BEGIN MARCH 27
As part of the Michigan Department of Transportation's (MDOT) ongoing repair work on the US-31 bascule bridge in Charlevoix, 12 overnight closures will begin Monday, March 27.

The bridge will be locked in the up, or open, position during the closures, preventing any US-31 traffic from using the bridge.  The closures, scheduled for 11pm to 5am nightly from March 27 to April 7 barring any unforeseen circumstances, will require an official detour of through traffic via M-66, M-32, and US-131 through East Jordan, Boyne Falls, and Petoskey.

"We know the closures will be an inconvenience to motorists, which is why we've worked with the City of Charlevoix, local employers, and local emergency service agencies to schedule them at a time to minimize the impact," said MDOT Gaylord Transportation Service Center (TSC) Construction Engineer Ben Gowell.  "We're working with our contractor Anlann Corp., to give everyone as much notice as we can in advance of the detour."

The work is part of a 1.9 million investment to repair the bridge substructure and steel, as well as upgrade the electrical and mechanical components.  The project also includes replacing the traffic warning gates and the electrical switches needed to ensure the bridge operates smoothly and properly, reconstructing the bridge approaches, and painting the steel superstructure.  Work began in early January, and is on schedule for completion by May 25.
michigan.gov/mdot 

   
 

EXPO EXCITEMENT IS IN THE AIR!
Wednesday, March 15, | 4-7pm | Castle Farms | $5 fee 
* Booth spaces are all filled............... 9 Taste of Charlevoix booths............. Cash Bar
* FREE Photo Booth............. *Dozens of Vendor Give-Aways* 
* First 300 attendees receive a special "Stuff the Bag" swag bag with info and/or items from Chamber members. 
(There is still time to get in on the "Stuff the Bag" promotion.  $25 for Expo vendors & $100 for Non-Expo vendors.  Call the Chamber at 231.547.2101 or details) 
 


"TASTE OF CHARLEVOIX" TO APPEAR ON
MICHIGAN THIS MORNING  
Don't miss 5 of our Taste of Charlevoix vendors on
Michigan This Morning on Wednesday, March 15, starting at 5:45am and featuring a different Taste vendor every half hour, with the last feature at 8:45am.  The Taste vendors will showcase the "taste" that they will be serving at the Business Expo & Taste of Charlevoix later in the day. 

Scheduled to appear as of 3/8/17 is:
5:45am - Opening with Chamber President, Alison Hubbard
6:15am - Harwood Gold
6:45am - Pigs Eatin' Ribs
7:15am - Pigs Eatin' Ribs
7:45am - Bridge Street Tap Room
8:15am - Smoke on the Water
8:45am - Cre8tive Cupcake 
 

FREE PHOTO BOOTH AT EXPO  
Happy Snappy Photo Booth from Petoskey will be a new attraction at this year's Business Expo & Taste of Charlevoix.  The Photo Booth is Free to all Expo attendees.  This photo booth has a tradition feel blended with modern technology.
As a bonus they will have, on-site, a Touch Screen Kiosk for texting your photos to your smart phone so you can share your Expo experience with your friends and family on social media.  



To view the Vendor Map and List
 
   
      
Thank you to our Business Expo & Taste of Charlevoix Event Sponsors: 

                       


 

  Thank you to our Business Expo & Taste of Charlevoix Media Sponsors:
 
   
 
FIRST FRIDAY BUSINESS BREAKFAST 
Friday, April 7, 2017  7:30-8:30AM $5/Members  $7/Non-Members
at the Bergmann Center, 08855 Martin Road
 
Co-Sponsored by:

                                     
ENHANCED BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT
 EAST PARK TAVERN
"Kick off to Summer"
Wednesday, April 19, 2017  |  5-7pm  |  East Park Tavern
$5/Members  $10/Non-Members

Yes, it might be a little early for bbq's and flip-flops but not at East Park Tavern as the Chamber kick's off summer with it's first Enhanced Business After Hours of the year. 
 
Enjoy: 
*Summer BBQ foods                    
*Cash bar with a special "island drink"
*Contests
*Wear your favorite Hawaiian Shirt
*Multiple Door Prizes
*Live music from DAVE CISCO


                                                                Sponsored by:
                                   


We still have room for 2 more sponsors. 
Contact the Chamber office at 231.547.2101 for details
       
            
            Design is the silent ambassador of your brand.
           
                                

        


THE CHARLEVOIX AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS



06777 South US 31 Suite D 
231.308.9500 
 

To read the latest articles from the Northern Lakes
EconomicAlliance Click Here 

NEW CLASSES AT WELLNESS WORKSHOP
Full Body Toning Exercise Class every Thursday evening from 5:30-6:30pm at the Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital Wellness Workshop on Bridge Street.  The first class is free as are all yoga and strength training classes.  If you enjoy your first class, low-cost punch cards are available and are good for any of our classes.

Amputee Support Group meets the second Thursday of each month at the Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital Wellness Workshop.

For more information on either of the above classes or to have our calendar emailed to you monthly call 231.437.3482 or email [email protected]
MCLAREN NORTHERN MICHIGAN HOSTS NEEDLE DROP-OFF IN CHARLEVOIX 
Due to the high need for proper needle collection and disposal, McLaren Northern Michigan is hosting a free needle drop-off in Charlevoix on Saturday, March 18 from 9am - 1pm at the McLaren Specialty Clinic offices of McLaren Northern Michigan Charlevoix Family Medicine and Michigan Heart and Vascular Specialists, located at 1404 Bridge Street.

Needles are required to be in an approved hard, impermeable plastic container.  This event will only collect needles.

For more information, please call 800.248.6777
mclaren.org 
SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION - AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS  
On Friday, March 3, the Charlevoix Circle of Arts opened the doors to the 2017 Spotlight on Innovation exhibition that highlights the artistic talent of regional high school students.  Present at the awards ceremony again this year was Kristohper Jones, Director of Talent, Acquisition and Recruitment from the Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids to give portfolio reviews and award scholarships.

The top winner was Brooklyn Allen from Central Lake High School who received a $16,000 scholarship.  Other recipients were:  Jenna Guthrie, Sophia Glazier and Luke Telgenof, all  from Charlevoix High School, each awarded $12,000, $12,000 and $10,000 respectively.  Portfolio Camp Tuition Awards went to Olivia Jeakle, Kaitlyn Verellen,and Lauren Kwapisz.


The Charlevoix Circle of Arts presented the 1st Place award to Brooklyn Allen, 2nd Place award to Sophia Glasier, and 3rd Place award to Payton Novotny.

The exhibition will be on display until March 25.
charlevoixcircle.com

WOMEN BUILD WEEK
Northwest Michigan Habitat and National Partner Lowe's are hosting "how-to" construction clinics for women volunteering during the 10th annual National Women Build Week, taking place May 6 through May 14.  National Women Build Week encourages women to devote at least one day to helping families build and advocate for decent and affordable places they can call home in their local community.  In preparation for Women Build, Habitat will partner with Lowe's of Petoskey to offer these clinics for volunteers and community members wanting to learn or update their skills: How to Safely Use Hand and Power Tools, How to Frame for Walls, How to Install Exterior Siding, How to Install Drywall and How to Finish Interior with Paint and Trim. 
To see dates and to sign-up Click Here
northwestmihabitat.org
FRIENDS AND FAMILY EVENT AT SEARS IN CHARLEVOIX 
For three days only, Sunday, March 12 through Tuesday, March 14, take an extra 15% off all appliances and floor care and an extra 10% off almost everything else.  Use your Sears card for an extra 5% off all appliances OR 12 months special financing on all appliances.

Mattress Closeout on all Mattresses on Display - savings up to 70% off.

Get ready for spring yard work with up to 20% off power lawn and garden equipment...and take up to 50% off tools for all your home repair needs.

Check out the new Rent to Own program.  Lease it....Love it....Own it!  No Credit required...and you can take your purchase home today!

Exclusions apply - See store for details
searshometwonstores.com 
SPRING ARRIVES THIS WEEK AT ELEMENTS GALLERY!  
Arriving this week, Spring Clothing, New Jewelry and Jenna Kator Purses. 

With St. Patrick's Day and Easter right around the corner, it is the perfect time for an Edith Pair's Paint N Party, this Saturday, March 11 from 3-5pm.
It might be a little chilly outside, but you'll warm up quickly with a set of pretty glasses with a Spring theme!  Call today to sign up. 231.547.5820. 
facebook.com/elementsgallerycharlevoix
WINE & Dine

LCBC and LCC TEAM UP FOR MARCH 9 FUNDRAISER
The Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company is hosting Leadership Charlevoix County for a fundraiser on Thursday, March 9, to install boot brush stations helping prevent the spread of invasive species throughout Charlevoix County. 

We will be offering a $10 all you can eat buffet, including salad and bread.  A percentage of the sales from the evening will be donated to the cause. 

The brewery is also throwing a party for St. Patrick's day with great giveaways and awesome craft brew specials. We will also be serving the same famous corned beef and cabbage dish from upstairs in the Bridge Street Tap Room.
lakecharlevoixbrewing.com
leadershipcharlevoixcounty.com
HAPPY HOUR AT PETOSKEY FARMS
Join us for Happy Hour at Petoskey Farms every Thursday and Friday during the month of March!

From 4-6pm, we will have $6 glasses of wine, bottle discounts, and small plates available for sipping and snacking!
petoskeyfarms.com 

SPRING FORWAD TO FIND A CURE FOR LYMPHOMA 
Cafe Sante is partnering with Family Video and Round It Up for Lymphoma to raise money to find a cure for Lymphoma.  Cafe Sante will donate 10% of food sales to Round It Up for Lymphoma on Friday, March 10th, from 3-11pm. 

Lymphoma is the most common blood cancer in adults and the third most common cancer overall among children.  Since the launch of the program in 2011, more than $5.8 million has been raised, 14 new lymphoma treatment drugs, and 63 research grants have been approved.  100% of the proceeds help fund vital lymphoma research.
magnumhospitality.com/cafesante 
TWO NIGHTS...TWO EXCEPTIONAL MEALS
Enjoy an exceptional dining experience on Thursday, March 16 at 7pm, as we welcome our good friends from Atwater Brewery for a delicious five-course meal paired with five incredible craft brews.  Tickets are still available, call 231.437.3466 and get yours today. 

The Bridge Street Tap Room is bringing back our famous traditional boiled corned beef and cabbage dinner for St. Patrick's day.  We are serving up Ebel's pickle-brined corned beef as well as several delicious beers crafted from Irish inspiration.  This delicious dish will also be available downstairs in the Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company.
bridgestreettaproom.com
$3 CASA TUESDAYS AT RED MESA GRILL
Live Music every Tuesday Night 6-9pm
$3 Casa Margaritas, $3 Premium Drafts, $3 Food Features

Performers:
Mar 14 - Third Groove
Mar 21 - Buddha Sweet
Mar 28 - Soul Patch

Apr 4 - Ben Overbeek
Apr 11 - The Urban Surgeons
Apr 18 - Blues by Keith Scott
Apr 25 - Blake Elliot & the Robinson Affair
redmesa.com

MAKE AN IMPACT FUNDRAISER
What:  Mini Carnival with Movie to follow
Date:   Saturday, March 11, 2017
Place:  Family of Faith Ministries, 203 E. Upright
Time:   3:00 - 5:00pm
Fee:    Donation Only!

Fundraising for the needy in Charlevoix with a portion of the funds going to the Third Day Women's Shelter and to the Community Reformed Men's Shelter.

Games, Food, Prizes and Fun for all ages
For more information, please call 231.547.4221.
TWO MORE CHANCES TO CATCH "INTO THE WOODS" AT CHARLEVOIX MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL
"Into The Woods", a Stephen Sondheim Broadway musical will be brought to life by the Charlevoix Middle/High School Performing ArtsWith two amazing performances last weekend; you still have a chance to catch the show this Saturday, March 11 at 6:30pm and Sunday March 12 at 2:00pm

"Into The Woods" is a musical fantasy intertwining the plots of several fairy tale characters.  A Wicked Witch tasks a childless baker and his wife with procuring several magical items from classic fairy tales in order to reverse the curse put on their family tree

Tickets are $5/Students, $8/Adults.  There is a $20 Family Matinee price, good only for the Sunday, March 12 show.  All performances are in the Charlevoix Middle/High School Auditorium.

For more information email Director Jodi Thompson at [email protected] or Assistant Director, Emily Chapdelaine at [email protected]
COME CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK'S DAY WITH AMERICAN HOUSE
Everyone's a little Irish on St. Patrick's Day, so don your green attire and join American House Charlevoix on Friday, March 17, from 4:30-6:30pm for an exciting celebration with laughter, leprechauns and shamrocks.  Enjoy a delicious dinner in our Anytime Cafe or take dinner-to-go. 

While you're here we'd love to show you what's new in our vibrant community, or just give you a glimpse of our world-class amenities.  We can't wait to celebrate with you!

This popular event is sure to fill up fast, so please RSVP by March 15 by calling 231.237.5572.
americanhouse.com 
LUNCHEON LECTURE LOOKS AT FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 
North Central Michigan's Luncheon Lecture program on Friday, March 17, will take a look at Michigan's Freedom of Information Act.  The program will be held in the Library Conference Center on the Petoskey Campus.  Lunch begins at 11:30am and the program begins at noon.

You have the right to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those who represent you.  Robin Luce-Herrmann, general counsel to the Michigan Press Association, explains how you can use FOIA and the Michigan Open Meetings Act to more fully participate in the democratic process.  Her appearance is sponsored by the Petoskey News.

Reservations are required.  Call 231.348.6600 or email [email protected]
ncmich.edu 
SCOVIE'S GOURMET FUNDRAISING EVENT
Date: Saturday, March 18 
Place:  Scovie's Gourmet
 
Time:  6:00pm
Silent Auction:  11:00am - 9:00pm

Join us for Dinner and a Movie ( The Doctor, starring William Hurt ) for just $25 per person.  Proceeds go to Hospice of Northwest Michigan.

Seating is limited, please RSVP, 231.237.7827
scovies.com
hospicenwm.org 
A COMMUNITY CONVERSATION...IT'S ALL IN THE PLANNING
Please join Hospice of Northwest Michigan and Golden Intentions about choices we can make to safeguard our wishes and dignity as we age or face serious illness.  This event is being held at the Center Point Assembly of God Church 5291 M 66 N, Charlevoix on Saturday, March 18, 2017 from 10:30am - 12:00pm.  This is an Open to the Community, free event sponsored by Hospice of Northwest Michigan & Golden Intentions.

Golden Intentions and Hospice of Northwest Michigan want to start the conversation about Advanced Planning and the choices at End of Life.  Whether you are 32 or 92, it's never too soon to have a golden conversation with your family.  More
hospicenwm.org 

OLD FASHION GRANGE HALL COUNTRY SQUARE DANCE
Date:  Saturday, April 8, 2017 
Place:  Barnard Grange Hall (corner of Barnard & Klooster Rd)
Time:  4:00 - 8:00pm

Bring a dish to pass.
For more information call 231.675.0004 or 231.547.9153 
CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF ARTS, JURIED FINE ARTS EXHIBITION
The Charlevoix Circle of Arts will be hosting a Juried Fine Arts Exhibition opening on March 31 and running through April 28th.  The exhibition is open to Michigan artists age 18 and older.  It was felt by the exhibition committee that a show representing all media (including photography) would give the greatest opportunity for artists to benefit from the experience of being in an exhibition that was not thematic, rather, all inclusive.

The juror for this year's show is Andrea Gerring.  Andrea is an adjunct art history instructor at North Central Michigan College in Petoskey, Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, and Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids.   More
charlevixcircle.org 
YOGA RETREAT AT BEAVER ISLAND LODGE
All Inclusive Yoga Retreat at the Beaver Island Lodge, May 19-21, with special guest Tiffany Lenau of Yoga Roots in Petoskey,

This Transformational Self Love Yoga Retreat All Inclusive Package Includes:

$530 paid to Beaver Island Lodge for:  Air, Room with Queen Bed, All Meals and Snacks. $30 discount for double occupancy (6 rooms have a pull out sofa)

$129 paid to Yoga Roots

Register for this Retreat at beaverislandlodge.com.  Click on the BOOK NOW link and TYPE IN the Access Code YOGA2017
 

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS WORKSHOP HELPS BUSINESSES UNDERSTAND AND USE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
Business owners can learn how to improve their fiscal fitness at a financial tools workshop Thursday, March 23 in Petoskey.  "Know Your Numbers: Using Your Financial Statements to Better Manage Your Business," is designed for small business owners and key staff who want to have a better understanding of how to use their financial statements to manage their business.  The workshop will be held from 9am to 12pm in Room 550 of the North Central Michigan College Student and Community Resource Center.

The workshop will be facilitated by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Growth Specialist, Mike Gay.  Topics will include identifying opportunities and challenges with your balance sheet and income statement; More
ncmich.edu
sbdcmichigan.org 
For  upcoming Training and Workshops from Northern Lakes Economic Alliance
 




Please Click Here to view jobs available with the following Chamber Members.

Beaver Island Boat Company 
Castle Farms
Charlevoix Montessori Academy for the Arts
City of Charlevoix

Comfort Keepers
Dairy Grille
Dry Harbour Marine
Harbor View Cafe 
Irish Boat Shop
Pigs Eatin' Ribs
Porter Creek Fish House
Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity
Round Lake Group, LLC
Sears Hometown Store
Two Men And A Truck 
  

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

 

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THANK YOU TO OUR
Premier MEMBERS

   




To learn more about becoming a Premier Member call the Chamber at 231.547.2101