Cherry Capital Airport
We're Ready.....When You're Ready
2020 Chain of Lakes Guidebook can now be viewed on the chamber website:


The Books are Here! Will be distributing over next few weeks! Look for them at local shops and venues.

The cover is an amazing aerial shot of the Albatross (located in Elk River) taken by Jeff Turick of Lakehouse-Creative .


Public Meetings
Stay Informed of Your Community


Monday, July 6 ~ Village Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. via Zoom

Wednesday, July 8 ~ DDA Meeting CANCELLED
Antrim County creates the Antrim Promise to support local businesses

Antrim Promise supply request form: SUPPLY REQUEST

Shop your favorite foods--fresh produce, meat, fish, honey, syrup and so much more--just as you always have! This summer will be a little different: please send only one shopper per family, wear a mask, and follow distancing and traffic flow guidelines.


List of vendors that have signed up... some may not be here every week.
Altonen Orchards * Bear Earth Herbals * Big Medicine Ranch * Boss Mouse * Charlevoix Moon Wine * Countryside Gardens * Cultured Kombucha * Erickson Family Farms * Fainting Robin Farm * Farmer White's * Gallagher Centennial Farm * Grateful Kitchen (GF) * Guntzviller's * Hammond's Pure Hone * Hillside Harvest Farm * Ken's Fresh Fish * MY TCBD * Natalie's Petals * Northern Growin * Ona Mission Honey Farm * Pine Hill Nursery * Providence Farm * Rural Good * Saltless Sea Creamery * Silver Star Goods * Sobremesa Tamales * The Farm at Cherry Hill * Undertoe Farm (pre-order pickup only) * Walk Around Ranch * Water's Edge Sweet Tooth * Winnie's Originals.
2020 has been a challenging year.
Maybe not the best year to decide to expand my business with a new location. But as they say, "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade!"

Grand Opening of my new location at 504 Bridge st, Elk Rapids.
Visit my Alteration studio and shop my Boutique featuring my own locally designed and made clothing.
Refreshing Lemonade and sale merchandise available in the outdoor tents. Social distancing protocols will be in place to visit indoor studio and boutique.
Join us on Saturday, July 11 at 11:00 a.m. for a ribbon cutting to celebrate Tinker Tailor's new shop and boutique!

Don't forget to wear your 😷 mask!
CARES Act Dollars to Support Small Businesses in Michigan
  Governor Whitmer signed Senate Bill 690 which will deploy more than $880 million in federal CARES Act funding to support COVID-19 response actions across the state. Key investments within the supplemental budget bill include: $100 million in small business restart grants to help small business owners, $60 million in rental assistance and eviction diversion; and $10 million in MIOSHA grants for protections to keep workers safe on the job.
The MI Chamber has prepared resources for Employers and Employees to use to better understand this new legislation that goes into effect today and shake that 'deer in the headlights' feeling! It's all on our website, check it out!

COVID-19 Small Business Support Webinars

Register for On-Demand Webinar Library https://sbdcmichigan.org/

SUCCESS IN A VIRTUAL WORLD:
ONLINE ETIQUETTE

Due to COVID-19, almost all work and services are being conducted over virtual platforms via video chat. A surge in the daily use of technology for meetings, conference calls, interviews and other video-based tasks may lead us with questions such as:

How should meeting attendees and facilitators act?   
What happens if I need to blow my nose? Use the restroom?   
I s my bed an acceptable place from which to host a meeting?   

Have all your virtual meeting etiquette questions answered and learn key strategies for maximizing video capabilities. Join us for an interactive session designed to help you know what to do if you have to sneeze... and more!

"What if I Have to Sneeze!? Virtual Etiquette in a Modern World" webinar will take place July 7 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EDT.

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND
The COVID-19 crisis has propelled organizations to adapt and turn to modern technology to go about conducting work responsibilities, team meetings, events and more. Now is your chance to learn key information regarding virtual etiquette as well as strategies on how to optimize your virtual meetings.

A few key takeaways from this virtual opportunity include:
  • How to set an agenda for a virtual meeting
  • How to present materials to make the most impact in your virtual events
  • Meeting facilitation tips
  • Virtual meeting attire and manners
Directors, communications staff, management staff and anyone who participates in virtual meetings are highly encouraged to attend.

The registration fee is $15 for both members and non-members. Register today!
Click on list below for all sites that have the up to date information on COVID-19 and Business Assistance.



Lists are now available on website: www.elkrapidschamber.org

FOR SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE: https://www.elkrapidschamber.org/55805-2/

FOR COVID-19- RESOURCE INFORMATION:
Michigan’s Work Share program allows employers to restart their business and bring employees back from unemployment. Employers can also retain their current workforce and are given the flexibility to choose which of their employees are part of a Work Share plan. Learn more at: Michigan.gov/WorkShare
Michigan Occupational Safety & Health Administration (MIOSHA)   launched a new website for COVID-19 Workplace Safety. Visit   Michigan.gov/COVIDWorkplaceSafety   for the latest guidance and resources.   #COVIDWorkplaceSafety   #MaskUpMichigan




Upcoming webinars are up on our  SCORE Mentors  website, which can be viewed here:

Productize - Steps for Turning Your Service Into a Product, July 9, 2020 @2:00 p.m. Service companies have been among the worst hit by this pandemic. Learn the simple steps to "productize your service" and meet the immediate need of consumers


ANTRIM COUNTY SEEKS INPUT

Antrim County is updating its Community Park and Recreation Plan and they want to hear from you. Now is the time to speak up for what you want to see in your community. Results from this survey will help guide the decisions made by Antrim County commissioners for the future of your public outdoor spaces.

Anyone interested in providing input into the future of Antrim County’s Park and Recreation Plan should take this   SURVEY  before July 31, 2020.

The goal of the plan is to inventory existing facilities and resources, identify community recreation and open space needs and set a 5-year plan of action. A comprehensive plan derived from the input of its citizens will ensure that Antrim County, which boasts nearly 20,500 acres of freshwater lakes and rivers and 280 square miles of public and private forests, continues to be a destination sought for its abundance of year-round recreational activities. Using guidelines set forth by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, this plan will have many potential benefits, including better environmental protection, efficiency in providing park and recreation opportunities, increased funding sources, greater potential for tapping into new, creative ways of accomplishing recreation goals, and enhancing public support for parks. Once complete, this plan will serve as a road map for future projects and opportunities necessary to enhance our natural and recreational spaces.
Great Lakes Equestrian Festival This Week!
Spectators are not allowed at this time
Check website and facebook for updates
ACTS Food Pantry
Open: Tuesday 5:00 -7:00 p.m.
Wed 1:00- 4:00 p.m.
Sat 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m

Thrift Store Hours:
Tues: 10 am - 3 pm
Wednesday High Risk: 10 am-Noon Regular: Noon-3 pm
Thurs- Sat 10 a.m. - 3 pm

Receiving Hours: Tues, Thurs. Sat 10 am - 3pm

We truly appreciate what you can send to keep our Pantry open.
www.acmechristian.org ACTS -- Working Hard To Help People in Need
The Good Samaritan Food Pantry is open for curbside/drive-thru pickup:
(231) 588-2208

Tuesday 10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Wed-Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 - 1:30 p.m.

THRIFT STORE OPEN SAME TIME, ONLY OPEN 1/2 HOUR LATER
We have changed things to help protect our staff and community, as we now offer a drive thru service to receive food, and baby items (diapers, wipes, formula, food, etc.). If baby items are needed beyond the basics please call (231) 588-2200. We are doing our utility and emergency assistance through phone by calling (231) 588-2208. One thing we are in need of is bar soap to hand out with our food boxes.
The Elk Rapids Community Cupboard is always in need of food. Items needed the most are: Cereal, Canned Fruit & Vegetables, Canned Tuna Fish, Juice, Canned Soup, Jam, Macaroni and Cheese, Toilet Paper, and Feminine Products. Thank you to all who have donated so far, call Pam Coleman at (847) 445-8239 with any questions.

Donations can also be mailed to:
P.O. Box 572, Elk Rapids, MI. 49629. 
We also have a donation box outside First Presbyterian Church at 404 Spruce Street, Elk Rapids. 

Accepting new clients and all groceries are delivery only, coordinated with each client. Thank you so much for your support.

As Businesses Re-open....


  • Please Be Patient.

  • Let's All Work Together.

  • Support Local Business.
  • As businesses re-open, please follow their guidelines for social distancing, sanitary procedures, and safety measures.
  • Some places might not be ready to fully open yet. Give them time to rebuild their stock and supplies.
  • Some businesses may feel uncomfortable with opening fully and may remain closed for awhile or continue with curbside service ~ respect their decision.
  • They may not be able to operate at full person capacity.
  • Service may be a little slower until getting fully staffed.
  • Be Positive ~ Better days are coming!
  • Be Patient and respectful.
STAY SAFE TO STAY OPEN
We are happy you are here and thank you for your patronage. Please do your part to stay safe and keep Elk Rapids open!

As Elk Rapids and Antrim County begin reopening retail, restaurants, and other allowable activities on Friday, May 22, 2020 (as authorized under Executive Order 2020-92), residents and second homeowners are asked to Stay Safe to Stay Open. Continuing to keep our community safe by honoring Our Commitment to Community.

As you enter our Elk Rapids Community, you are confirming that you are not experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms and that you agree to follow the above Commitments.
Together, we can be a model for the State of Michigan and allow economic recovery in our region, without risking the health of our residents or capacity of the regions’ healthcare system. We are all dependent on one another to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
Elk Rapids Yoga Flow Now Offering Classes at the Beach!

Happy Summer!
We are moving two of our outside classes to the beach at Memorial Park next week and for the rest of the summer. The area by the playground offers shade while still being close enough to the water. Weather permitting, you will be notified by email 1.5 hours prior to class if cancelled. 

Tuesday: 9:00 am Vinyasa with Mary
Wednesday: 9:30 am Strength & Flexibility with Janet
You can go straight to the beach area, no need to stop at the studio.
We hope you will find beach yoga, as all classes, inspiring and peaceful while combining traditional yoga philosophy with asana and pranayama.
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Week-end
Music Update
(click on venue name to get updates from Facebook on music)




Cellar 152  ~ Friday -- Saturday --
Edward C. Grace Harbor  ~ Saturday-- On the Sun
Ethanology   ~ Saturday -- Steve Leaf Music 8-11
Mico's Torch Riveria ~ Every Monday @ 6:30, Dominic & Willie Live
Pine Hill Nursery   ~ Friday -- Saturday --
Short's Brewing Co . ~ Pull Barn Saturday --
Torch Lake Cafe   ~ Friday & Saturday Leanna Collins & Iven Grielick
(Lee Malone on Wed., The True Falsettos on Thurs.)
Townline Ciderworks   ~ Friday -- 6-8 pm
Summer Concert Series @ the Harbor Begins Saturday July 4

Come join us at the harbor for our sunset concerts. Bring your chairs, a snack, and enjoy the music.

Entertainment line-up:

July 4: Royal Grand 7-9 pm   Saturday
July 11: "On the Sun" 7-9 pm  Saturday
July 19: Petoskey Steel Drum Band  4-6 pm
July 26: Barbosa Bros. 7-9 pm
August 2: Flylite Gemini 7-9 pm
August 16; Escaping Pavement 7-9 pm

Since most businesses have reopened and the list was mighty long, will be featuring the businesses reopening in the coming weeks.

It's always best to call ahead, check websites, and facebook before heading out the door to see their hours and safety practices.
Please contact me if you have any changes, events, or something you would like added to the newsletter. laura@elkrapidschamber.org

Elk Rapids Cinema
Now Open!

Currently showing

Friday July 3~9
Walt Disney's Jungle Book

Friday July 10~16
"EMMA"

Showtimes 3:30 and 7:00 p.m.
THE GRASS RIVER CENTER HAS REOPENED AS OF THURSDAY, June 25!

From now through October, the Center will be open 7 days/week from 10:00-4:00, barring any changes in the COVID-19 situation.
Staff have been working hard over the past few months to create new procedures that ensure the safety of our visitors; chief among these are requiring all visitors and staff to wear masks and to practice social distancing while inside the Center. If you're not comfortable visiting us in an indoor space, we will still have the Roving Naturalist tent set up by the cabin on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30-1:30, where a naturalist will be available to answer questions. And, of course, our trails are open every day from dawn to dusk.
The safety of our visitors and staff is our top priority. If you have any questions about our new safety procedures or about GRNA in general, please don't hesitate to connect with us via Facebook or via email at info@grassriver.org . We hope to see you soon, whether it's inside the Center, under the Roving Naturalist tent, or on the trails!!
News from the ..... Elk Rapids District Library

Partnering with Short’s Brewery, we are pleased to announce an opportunity to support the Capital Campaign this summer while enjoying one of their most popular beers. Beginning Saturday, July 4th through October at the Elk Rapids Pull Barn,
$1 from the purchase of each and every Local’s Light beer will be donated to the Library Campaign! We give thanks to Joe and Leah Short and the whole team for their support and generosity and to help keep attention on the Library Campaign over the coming months.
INTERCONNECTED: A COMMUNITY FLAG CHAIN

This Library project will show what this community can do to stay "connected" during these uncertain times.

Our goal is to make an interconnected chain of cyanotype "flags" to string throughout our beautiful porch by September 26, 2020, World Cyanotype Day. An art installation of sorts!

Beginning July 14, 2020 you may come to the Library and pick up a packet with materials and directions, take it home to create your own cyanotype with the help of the sun. You will return it to us, washed and dried and we will assemble the "flag" chains and hang them on the porch. We will continue handing out packets until they are gone and assemble the chains as the finished prints are returned.

Participation in this project will be fun and easy for children as well as adults.

As with our 1000 origami crane project, we know this will be a beautiful example of what our community can create together!
To view 2 simple tutorials showing the making of a cyanotype print, visit our Elk Rapids District Library YouTube channel!
Curbside service at the Library is going well and will continue for the foreseeable future, however some people desperately want to come in and browse or use a computer or the copy machine. Beginning Monday, July 13 the Library will be open by appointment only. Patrons can schedule a 15 minute appointment during our current open hours and can look for books, movies or CDs, use a computer, scan or make copies, or visit The Book Cellar. Magazines and newspapers will not be available for browsing. Please be aware of the following rules before coming in for your appointment: CONTINUE READING IN THE ERDL JULY NEWSLETTER
Dear Friends & Supporters:

We hope this finds you safe, healthy and finding moments to enjoy the splendor of a beautiful Northern Michigan summer.

Over the past few months, the Library Board and Capital Campaign Committee have been considering the best course of action for the Capital Campaign during these unprecedented times. The uncertainty of the pandemic, the critical needs of the community, and safety matters at the Library have taken precedent over fundraising for the expansion and restoration. After careful consideration of our priorities and safety of our community, we will be going forward for the remainder of the year with a less visible Campaign but nonetheless definitely going forward!......... CONTINUE READING
Short's Pull Barn
211 Industrial Park Dr. * Elk Rapids

Open every day 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Old Mission Eats Food Truck serving burgers daily from 12:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Music House Museum * 7377 U.S. 31 N. * Williamsburg
Elk Rapids Rotary Park Public Input Session
Thursday, July 9, 2020 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

We are excited to announce that we, along with the Village of Elk Rapids, are looking for public input on a preliminary design of improvements for Elk Rapids Rotary Park.

After bidding out to multiple firms we landed on working with Gourdie Frasier, Inc. to develop a preliminary design on improvements, including a universal kayak launch, for Rotary Park. They have been busy working on a design option which will be presented at the public input session on Thursday, July 9 from 6-8 PM at the Elk Rapids Rotary Park.

Participants can speak with the design team including Gourdie Frasier, Inc., Paddle Antrim, and Village staff, in an open house format. We encourage participants to share their thoughts, ask questions, and provide feedback.

Based on feedback received, the team will develop a final draft to be presented to the Village of Elk Rapids Parks and Recreation Committee and the Elk Rapids Village Council.

The Open House will follow all COVID-19 guidelines. For those who cannot attend, information can be found at paddleantrim.com/rotary-park , which will include a copy of the design and a short recording with background information.
Castle Farms is open for Self-Guided tours from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

• Masks must be worn on site by all guests over the age of 2.
• Social distancing of at least 6ft is required for those not from your own household.
• Our Welcome Center and Gift Shop has a maximum capacity of 25 people at a time.
• At this time, we are not offering guided tours or tram rides.
• Hand sanitizer stations have been placed around the Castle for guest safety.

You can expect our staff to be doing our part as well, by wearing masks and social distancing. We're excited to see you!

Castle Farms * 5052 M-66 North * Charlevoix * 231-237-0884 * castlefarms.com

Wednesday, July 8 10:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.
Prince & Princess Story Time
DO YOU HAVE A KNIGHT OR PRINCESS WHO WOULD LOVE TO HEAR A STORY?
Attend Castle Farms’ Prince and Princess Story Time on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 from 10 am – 12 pm! Stories will be read at 10:15 am followed by a fun craft activity. Enjoy a sweet treat and cool beverage. Pose for a picture with a princess in a carriage or take a photo by Norm the dragon. At 11 am, you are welcome to explore the grounds around the Castle. Travel through the Enchanted Forest to find St. George, a tall silver knight. Climb to the top of a tower to see the Castle from up high. Each Story Time is themed to appeal to youngsters ages 3 through 12.

TICKETS FOR STORY TIMES ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE AND CAN BE BOUGHT HERE: https://www.castlefarms.com/events/prince-princess-story-time/
$10 PER PERSON AGES 3 AND UP.

Early Bird Picnic and Tour
Sunday July 12 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Enjoy an afternoon picnic in an enchanted garden (weather permitting) followed by a guided tour of the Castle, collections, and gardens. Our knowledgeable guides will entertain you with over 100 years of history and stories. To reserve separately and be seated together, choose the same party name while registering. Tickets are $35 each, with reservations ending at 11:59pm on July 11th.
Free  Ideal Protein
 Weight  Loss Seminar
Call for Meeting Options
 
Tuesday July 7, 2020 @ 5:30 p.m.
Come learn about the doctor supervised Ideal Protein Weight Loss Program proven to promote fat loss, naturally suppresses appetite, and provides nutrition education and support to maintain weight loss. Sample foods available on the program.
Admission is free, but please RSVP, call 231-264-0700.
Presented by Dr. Ann Kuenker
Elk Rapids Skin & Laser Clinic * 516 Bridge Street * Elk Rapids
(Mon. July 6 in Traverse City, Thurs. July 10 in Petoskey)
PANCAKE BREAKFAST
To Benefit Elk Rapids Fireman’s Association

    In support of public education, training and Fireman’s Memorial Walk and bench

Saturday July 11, 9:00-11:30 am
Harbor Pavilion

Pancakes, sausage, juice, milk, and coffee
Generously supplied by Village Market

ALL ARE WELCOME.
DONATIONS APPRECIATED.

Sponsored by the Elk Rapids Yacht Club
RAVEN HILL DISCOVERY CENTER WEEKLY UPDATE...

Greetings to everyone, Related to sumac and cashew nuts, this smoke bush garners its share of attention every year as visitors drive into Raven Hill. Even with no one to admire it this year, it stands at the ready to welcome guests and will do so again in 2021. It was originally planted too close to the driveway and has had many encounters with cars backing up into it, but it survives regardless! FYI, it is the seed pods that form the “smoke”, after the flowers have faded. ......  Continue Reading Update on July 3, 2020

Check us out daily on Facebook and the website ( www.MiRavenHill.org ) for informal learning activities, photo memories, updates and more. We may also be reached via email ( info@miravenhill.org) or phone: 231.675.6025. Stay safe and keep in touch, everyone.
We are excited to announce that the Garden Café will be reopening on June 24th! We will be operating with limited hours (12 pm-6 pm Wednesday – Sunday) for the first week and then extending our hours in July to (12 pm-8 pm Wednesday – Sunday). The health of our staff and guests is our TOP PRIORITY, please give us a call if you would like to make reservations. 231-599-1131.
WE ARE MARKING EVENTS CANCELLED ON CALENDAR AS WE HEAR ABOUT THEM
Help Wanted Classified

Hairport Salon and Spa of Elk Rapids is currently seeking a Licensed Cosmetologist and Nail Technician. Starting salary based on level of experience. Clientele base not necessary. Flexible schedule and safe working environment.

Please submit resume to hairport.salonandspa@yahoo.com .

If you have questions, please call (231) 264-8184

404 Bridge Street * Elk Rapids * www.hairportsalonandspa.com 
Farmer White's Now Hiring!

Farmer White's is looking to fill a bakery position, full or part time available. Please call (231) 632-1500 or stop in and see Mary at the market. 

New summer hours: open 7 days a week.
Mon-Sat. 9:00 am-6:00 pm, Sun. 10:00 am-5:00 pm 
Smart Thermostat Giveaway
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic Consumers Energy remains committed to achieving our clean energy goals! One pillar of our Clean Energy Plan is to help our customers use energy more efficiently. To keep those goals on track, we are working with Google to give away 100,000 Nest Thermostat Es to Consumers Energy residential customers from now through the end of July.
We know that people who use the Nest E reduce their energy usage by up to 15 percent on average. Which is why we’re eager to get the word out about this exciting new program. Use Google Chrome to access the attached link for more details about how to take advantage of this limited time offer or visit: ConsumersEnergy.com/freethermostat . This is only for residential customers of Consumers Energy and the customer must have air conditioning and WiFi to be eligible. Have your Consumers Energy Account Number ready. Once eligibility is verified, a cost of $0.00 will appear in the shopping cart. The customer will be responsible for shipping costs. A complimentary Customer Care Kit will be provided to those customers who are not eligible. 
# # #
For more information about Consumers Energy, go to www.ConsumersEnergy.com
Check out Consumers Energy on Social Media
2020 Watershed Challenge Saturday, July 25 ~ Saturday August 22, 2020

2020 has been quite a year! With all our current challenges and uncertainty, there is one thing that has allowed us to escape and find some semblance of normal - getting outside and enjoying the numerous lakes, streams, and protected lands in our area...... Continue Reading
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