Will we see you at this year's Chamber UnTapped - Holiday Edition? We hope so!

Keep reading for details.

Have a happy Thanksgiving from your Chamber Team,

Stacie, Carmen, Marc, and Blade

The Golden Stag - The Golden Stag's culinary philosophy is to create a harmonious blend of flavors from various cuisines. With made-to-order recipes that combine Italian, Mediterranean, Greek, and Arabic influences and a menu that caters to all palates, the Golden Stag promises a flavorful journey that transcends borders.

Thank you to all the 2023/2024 Leadership Program sponsors, including West Shore Community College, Filer Credit Union, Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Bob's Roofing Company, and Republic Services. 

On Thursday, November 30, 5:00-7:00pm, the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce will present Chamber Untapped - Holiday Edition at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts. Join us evening of great food, drinks, and live music.

All Chamber members are encouraged to attend! The Chamber will be providing important updates on our priority areas.

The Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Gala will be held at the Little River Casino Resort on March 8th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. Nominations are open!

There are five categories eligible for nominations:

1) Large Business of the Year

2) Small Business of the Year

3) Community Action Award

4) Business Leader of the Year

5) Emerging Business Award

The deadline to submit nominations is Monday, December 4th.

We are looking for businesses, residents, schools, churches, non-profits, and clubs from every corner of the Manistee County. Whether you are decorating your house or yard, a simple or elaborate display, we want you to join the fun!

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS. All entries help create a light display car route through Manistee County. This can be done by decorating the house and/or yard, or even getting your neighbors together to decorate your block, driveway, mailbox, store windows, school, business, bus... creativity is encouraged!

Each entry will receive a free yard sign to put out with their entry number for voting. Once you register, you will be emailed your entry number. Signs are available for pick up during business hours at the Vogue Theatre, 383 River Street. 

Entries are divided into three categories: residents, non-profits, and businesses.

The winning resident and non-profit will receive $100 each in manistee county ca$h.

As for businesses... which business this year will win the esteemed traveling trophy and bragging rights for the best display? Only time will tell.

Voting begins November 25. Be sure to follow the Manistee County Christmas Facebook page to stay up-to-date!

West Shore Bank’s Spirit of Giving launched Giving November, making a personal impact through various events spread across the six counties they serve.

All branches are raising monetary donations, canned goods, nonperishable items, and household items to help the community. This year, the Manistee branches have partnered with Matthew 25:35 Food Pantry and the Onekama branch is partnering with Onekama Schools and Onekama Lions Club.

Presented by West Shore Bank.

Manistee’s Old Christmas Weekend is filled with charming events, including the Festival of Trees, craft bazaar, 5K race, and the Victorian Sleighbell Parade. The highlights of the parade are draft horses pulling a 30-foot Christmas tree down River Street followed by a beautiful display of luminaries, caroling, and the lighting of the tree.

Join us this Holiday Season for the annual Manistee Sleighbell Parade. West Shore Community College Manistee Downtown Education Center will be hosting a warming station in the Downtown Manistee Education Center. We will be handing out refreshments and treats from 3:00 - 6:00 PM!

Don’t miss out on the magic of traditional Christmas shopping – and the small businesses across the county have you covered. Small businesses provide over 60% of all new jobs and they are the first people we call upon to support local initiatives, nonprofits, and youth activities.

"We are supporting our neighbors, our friends, and our community when you shop locally," said Jalie Mowry Lipa, owner of Revive and Refresh Aesthetics.

Ways you can help small businesses this holiday season:

• Buy, dine, and visit small
• Write reviews
• Tell friends about your favorite places
• Buy local gift certificates! manistee county ca$h is a county-wide certificate program available for purchase online 24/7 and accepted at 30+ locations. Interested in participating? Contact carmen@manisteechamber.com.
• Share posts about shopping locally and your favorite businesses on social media
• Check in on social media when shopping, dining, and visiting local

COMMUNITY TRANSFORMERS

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

ultimately benefiting our community. Thank you!