Elk Rapids Area
Chamber of Commerce
Monday Minute Newsletter

October 11, 2021

Chain of Lakes Area
2021 Chain of Lakes Area Events

Where to go,
What to see, and
What to do in the Elk Rapids Area


October 14, Antrim County High Tea for Breast Cancer Prevention at Short's Pub in Bellaire 5-8 pm
October 14, Owls of Northern MI, Grass River 7 pm
October 15, Owl Prowl, Grass River 7 pm
October 15, Amvets Fish Fry
October 16, Autumn Fest @Grass River 11 am
October 16, Antrim County Fair, Harvest Festival
October 20, Samels Farm Potluck Supper
October 23, Harvest Celebration ~ Waterfire Vineyards
October 23, ER Players ~ "Totally 80s, Totally Murder"
October 30, Trunk or Treat @Williamsburg United Methodist Church 3-5pm
October 30, Downtown ER Tailgate Party...stay tuned
October 30, Ethanology Halloween Bash 8-11
October 31, Zombie Parade, Downtown ER Trick or Treat 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.

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Please email laura@elkrapidschamber.org with any updated event dates you may have!

Public Meetings about OUR CommUNITY



Monday, October 11, Harbor Commission 7:00 p.m.
Agenda (NO ZOOM)
Monday, October 11, Milton Township Board Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, October 12, ER Township Meeting 9:00 a.m.
Tuesday, October 12, Milton Township Planning Commission 7:00 pm
Wednesday, October 13, DDA Meeting 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 14, Libary Board Meeting 5:00 p.m.


The Elk Rapids Village Council at their regular meeting on Monday, November 1, 2021, located at the Governmental Center, 315 Bridge Street at 7:00 p.m. will hold a Public Hearing to receive citizen input on the recommendation of the Planning Commission to amend the Village of Elk Rapids Zoning Code ......Click Here for More Information


Village of Elk Rapids Website: www.elkrapids.org
There is still time to Apply for a COVID-19 EIDL!

COVID EIDL Applicants: Join SBA's COVID EIDL Application Completion Office Hours for information about the application process and get your questions answered to apply for COVID EIDL funds.

  • Wednesday, October 13 at 12:30 – 1:30 PM ET Join here
COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans

SBA Debt Relief

On September 9, 2021, Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman announced the following major enhancements to the COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.
  • Increasing the COVID EIDL Cap. The SBA will lift the COVID EIDL cap from $500,000 to $2 million. Loan funds can be used for any normal operating expenses and working capital, including payroll, purchasing equipment, and paying debt.
  • Implementation of a Deferred Payment Period. The SBA will ensure small business owners will not have to begin COVID EIDL repayment until two years after loan origination so that they can get through the pandemic without having to worry about making ends meet.
  • Establishment of a 30-Day Exclusivity Window. To ensure main street businesses have additional time to access these funds, the SBA will implement a 30-day exclusivity window of approving and disbursing funds for loans of $500,000 or less. Approval and disbursement of loans over $500,000 will begin after the 30-day period.
  • Expansion of Eligible Use of Funds. COVID EIDL funds will now be eligible to prepay commercial debt and make payments on federal business debt.
  • Simplification of affiliation requirements. To ease the COVID EIDL application process for small businesses, the SBA has established more simplified affiliation requirements to model those of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.
To learn about eligibility and application requirements and how to apply, visit sba.gov/eidl. The last day that applications may be received is December 31, 2021. All eligible applicants should file their applications as soon as possible.
The SBA and Public-Private Strategies Institute have teamed up for a series of webinars that will help your business get back on track. Join us for our next session on Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. ET: Resources and Relief for Your Small Business - Supporting Women Business Owners and Women's Programs.
During this webinar, you will:
  • Learn more about COVID EIDL and how you can take advantage before December 31, 2021
  • Discover tools and resources you can use to start and grow your business
  • Have your questions answered by SBA leadership and small business experts
  • Learn how you can become a vaccine leader in your community
  • Get an update regarding programs and recent policy announcements made by the Biden-Harris Administration
Note: These sessions will take place every two weeks and will run through December 2021. Register
Did you know that October is National Women's Small Business Month? SBA has resources to help women entrepreneurs start, grow, expand and recover businesses. 

Join the SBA for an online event to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on October 14, 2021. The event will feature a fireside chat with SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman and SBA Associate Administrators Bibi Hidalgo and Mark Madrid for a candid discussion about the SBA's efforts to foster Hispanic entrepreneurship. The online event also includes a panel discussion about how Hispanic business owners have successfully pivoted throughout the pandemic to adapt to a rapidly shifting environment. Hear about their truths, how they overcome challenges, and how they face this adversity with "grit and ganas (a drive to succeed)" Register
Click to:

There are 8 this week, one of them is:

Tue, October 12, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM 
Topic: Human Resources Online Facilitated by Michigan SBDC Lead Center
This webinar is made available at no cost to Michigan residents through the financial support of Fifth Third Bank. Register


Resources to guide your business through COVID-19
The Michigan SBDC is here to help
We’ve gathered the most up-to-date resources to support your business during the pandemic and beyond.




October 12, 2021, 1:00pm EDT
Key do-it-yourself video engagement strategies to AMPLIFY your impact. Learn why video marketing matters, and much more. Read more

October 14, 2021, 1:00pm EDT
You'll learn how to execute your own text message marketing campaigns through strategies, tactics, and technology that can be implemented today. Read more
Stay connected with Northwest Michigan Works! at a Career Connection meeting where you can learn about job opportunities and improve job search skills while networking with other job seekers and professionals. Check the Northwest Michigan Works! calendar to see when you can join a Career Connection meeting this week in Benzonia, Manistee, Petoskey, or Traverse City. There are also opportunities to participate online.

Do you struggle with setting and achieving goals, work/life balance, staying organized? Join us for our new Getting Ready for Opportunities at Work (G.R.O.W.) workshop focused on Dependability. The workshop will be held Wednesday, October 13 at 10 am at the Northwest Michigan Works! Centers in Cadillac, Manistee, Petoskey, and Traverse City.
Jobs can be posted to the chamber website.
Once jobs are created they are submitted to us for approval
During almost 20 years in business, ACTS has risen from humble beginnings to become a local well-respected nonprofit that helps neighbors in need.
Now we seek a new Thrift Store Manager to build on our excellent store operations, vibrant in-store displays, and great customer relations.
For more info or to apply, visit https://www.acmechristian.org/hiring.html or call Carol at (231) 267-3002
202 E. Grandview Pkwy. Traverse City
(231) 947-5075


CLICK FOR: EVENTS CALENDAR
Fall colors are cascading throughout Michigan across back roads, city parks, nature trails—and along rushing rivers and streams. To truly appreciate the dramatic hues of Michigan's fall color, consider Celebrating the Colors of the Season in an RV. When night falls and Michigan's breathtaking views fade into the darkness, the
night sky opens to a magnificent star show.
We have a lot going on to celebrate the season: check out Ludington's Haunted VillageZoo Goes Boo in Grand Rapids, the Motown All-Star Spectacular in Benton Harbor, Eastown Howl-Oween Pawty in Grand Rapids, or Mackinac Island's Summer Wine Appreciation Weekend.
You're just one click away from this week's fall color report.

Peak Fall colors are around the corner, which means it's time to plan your trip! Whether you're a local searching for a Fall colors hike or a visitor looking for a full-color tour, visit our Fall page to start planning your adventure: mynorth.com/northern-michigan-fall/
Chamber Member News
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Free Ideal Protein
Weight Loss Seminar
October 12, 2021 @ 5:30 p.m.
in Elk Rapids
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
www.youridealyouweightloss.com
(Mon. Oct. 11 in Traverse City ~ Thurs. Oct. 14 in Petoskey)
Introducing Wellness Coaching with Judith

I wanted to let you know that I started doing some private nutrition coaching and it's going really well. As a person who knows me, I wanted to give a special heads up to you. There are only three spots open this month. If you or someone you know is interested in finally making the changes to break free of aches and pains and find inspired longevity, then let's sit down for a FREE Breakthrough Session.
Changing Seasons Means Cooler and Wetter Weather in Northern Michigan!

Great Time to Make Your Moves in the Gym!!
 
Monthly Memberships $55/month
3 Month Membership $150
Full Year Pain in Full $468 (equivalent to $39/month rate)
 
Initial enrollment fee of $25 to cover your Key Fob Entry
 
Stop in during our staffed hours for a tour. We're BIGGERThan We Look!!
Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays 9 am-1 pm and Tuesdays, Wednesdays 3-7 pm

Harbor Fitness * 115 Ames St., Suite F * Elk Rapids * (231) 498-2224
4 YEAR "ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL"
4 years open ~ 4 FREE classes 
Hello ERYF Friends,
 
Four years ago on October 17, 2017, we opened the doors to Elk Rapids Yoga Flow.  It’s been a mixture of challenge and reward with the reward of meeting all of you being the BEST!  
For our love of yoga and all of you, we are offering this special fall/anniversary package.
 
In celebration of 4-years, we are offering this 4 for 4 Special package.   
Receive 4 additional classes with the purchase of a 5-class package, that’s 9 classes for the price of 5!  This package will expire January 1, 2022, unlike our other packages which expire after 1 year.  
 
With the change of season, it’s a great time to re-commit to yourself and your practice, let us help you establish a healthy routine.  
 
Namaste, ERYF Teachers
The DAM Shop & The DAM Truck will be closed a few days this week and next for some renovations.

Good News: Gas dock, Rentals office, and our Sales department are all operating as usual. See you for a ☕ Thursday!
All located at 118 Bridge Street * Elk Rapids * (231) 264-9500
🍁Fall is in the air at Royal Farms!

  • 🍩 Cider Donuts
  • 🍏 Apples Galore & U-Pick too!
  • 🍺 Fresh Pressed Cider
  • 🎃 Pumpkins, Gourds, & Squash
  • 🌽 Corn Maze
  • 🥧 Honeycrisp Apple Pies
  • 🍷 Wine & Hard Cider

  • A FUN, memorable experience for the whole family!

10445 N. U.S. Hwy 31, Ellsworth, MI 49729 * (231) 599-3222
Philip Steward Joins Nowak Cabinets
 
Nowak Cabinets recently welcomed Philip Steward, Designer, to their design team.
 
Steward graduated from Olivet Nazarene University in 2018 with a Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design. His passion for design comes from a long history of creative design. In addition to his formal training, he has always enjoyed being a part of many home renovation projects.
 
 "We are really excited to welcome Philip to our design team. His attention to detail, along with his creative and design talents, is such a tremendous asset to our customers. His innovation and design aspirations make him an integral part of our team at Nowak Cabinets, "states Shannon Boncher, co-owner of Nowak Cabinets.
 
For more information about Nowak Cabinets, please call (231) 264-8603 or visit www.nowakcabinets.com
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THE GRANARY at Seven Gables

$1.00 off all food items
20% off all clothes, except fall items
20% off all soap products, lotions
20% off jewelry

Open Fri, Sat, and Sun 10 am - 5 pm thru October 31, 2021
11680 S. Elk Lake Rd. * Williamsburg * (231) 264-8429

Fill Your Heart ❤ and Home 🏡
With Music 🎼

Piano 🎹 Lessons
Located in Elk Rapids
Lessons for all ages!

Call Bonnie Twiss
at (231) 498-2181  
A Happy Harvest heads up, this year's Harvest Celebration is scheduled for SATURDAY, October 23rd and begins at 9:00 am, rain or shine!
 
There is a special satisfaction that comes with harvesting grapes, connecting you to the wine in your glass in the most intimate way. And if you were among last season's harvesters, you will get to enjoy the wine from your laboured fruit!
 
We ask that you dress for the weather, bring your own work gloves and water bottles, and we will provide the rest! WaterFire Staff will be there to greet you with coffee and snacks and offer instruction before work begins. We will serve lunch around 1:00 and raise a gracious toast to mother nature once the work is done! 
 
What to expect:
  • Michigan's unpredictable fall weather - please dress accordingly
  • Light lifting and bending - you will fill small bins with grapes and load them into a cart 
  • Not a kid or pet-friendly event, sorry!
  • Harvest is usually finished by early afternoon
  • Good company, food, and wine! 
 
IMPORTANTLY. We ask that you RSVP immediately as space is limited and this is a very popular event. If you're unsure you'll be able to attend, please don't commit at this time.
 
To RSVP, respond to this email and let us know your party size as soon as possible! If you have questions, please email info@waterfirewine.com or call (231) 498-2753.
 
- Chantal, Mike & Ellis
Waterfire Vineyards | 12180 Sutter Rd. | Kewadin
Here's a link for those of you who prefer to order tickets online. https://www.accelevents.com/e/totally-80s-totally-murder
Free LED High Bay Fixtures for Chamber Members

We've partnered with OEO Energy Solutions to offer free LED High Bay Fixtures to Replace Your Existing Indoor 400 & 1000W HID Fixtures valued at $300-500 per fixture. These are perfect for:
  • Warehouses
  • Big Box
  • Industrial
  • Manufacturing
  • Churches
  • Retail 
  • Gymnasiums
  • And More
You will receive the fixtures at no cost through the sustainability incentive program. The only requirement is that you have a Consumers Energy Business account and that the number of fixtures ordered does not exceed the number currently in use. 
To get your own FREE High Bay Lights simply enter the desired quantity & shipping information here: https://oeoezled.oeo.com/elk-rapids-high-bay/

QUESTIONS OR ORDERS:
Matt@OEO.com * 800-553-2112 * OEO ENERGY SOLUTIONS (OEO.COM)
Silly Sister’s Pottery Fall 2021 Class Announcement
 
Silly Sister's will begin a new round of Pottery Classes (Round 6.0) for October – November 2021, as detailed below. As this may be a repeat round of classes for at least some of you, classes will be geared BOTH toward newbie potters, as well as continuing potters. Instruction and demos will be geared toward multiple levels of ability, so never worry about getting bored! 
 
This announcement, and the sign-up and payment times are somewhat compressed, due to some plans I have to travel the week of Nov. 11-21. Classes will have to be finished by then, so they have to start the week of October 4. Sorry for the shorter-than-normal notice! Click to see the schedule & sign up!
Sign up for the fall pitch events today!

The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) introduced a new program that provides space for entrepreneurs to
pitch their start-up or growth idea for a chance to receive funding.

The Northern Lakes Innovation Alliance is an event looking for those involved in the following industries to apply:
  • Value-Added Agriculture
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Tech
  • Research & Development
  • Manufacturing
  • Recycle/UpCycle Industries.

If you live or work in the NLEA region and need assistance as a new or growing business in the above categories, you are invited to register online for an upcoming small pitch event at northernlakes.net/innovation-alliance.

Join the program to meet with like-minded individuals who are focused on innovation and entrepreneurship; schedule a date to meet and discuss your business idea.

Financial support for the Northern Lakes Innovation Alliance is provided by the DTE Foundation and Consumers Energy.
Grass
River
Natural
Area

6500 Alden Hwy ~ Bellaire
(231) 533-8576
check online for other great events: www.grassriver.org
Check out all the upcoming events at Grass River:

Thursday, October 14, 7 pm – 9 pm
Owls of Northern Michigan (Face to Face) $39 per person
Grass River Education Center (6500 Alden Highway, Bellaire). Owls are fascinating birds. What is it about the elusive owl that sparks an air of mystery and intrigue? Join Grass River staff as we learn about local owls, their biology, identification, calls, and habits. Learn times and places to go searching for owls during day and night, and strategies to increase your success in finding them. Then, we head out for a night hike in search of these amazing birds. Participants should be comfortable walking outdoors at night for about 1 mile on uneven trails. Bring a light. This course qualifies toward the Naturalist Certificate.

Owl Prowl 
Friday, October 15, 2021 - 7:00pm (1.5 hrs), $10 per person, must pre-register 
Join us as we learn about our local owls and their conservation with an introductory presentation, and then head out for a night hike in search of these amazing birds. Participants should be comfortable walking outdoors at night for about 1 mile on uneven trails. Bring a light. $10 per person. Limited to small groups. Must pre-register. No walk-in spaces are available.


Sat, October 16, 11 am – 2 pm
Autumnfest is GRNA's annual family-friendly celebration of all things fall. There will be kids' activities in the Center and out on the trails, refreshments, and a likely appearance by the Grass River otter itself! Plus, this year we will also be celebrating the 10th anniversary of the building of the Grass River Center.
Applications Being Accepted for Paddle Antrim’s Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program

Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce that they are now accepting applications for their 2021 Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program. This competitive grant program funds projects that protect the waterways and connect people to them. Potential projects must focus on stewardship, education, or increasing accessibility to the lakes and rivers. A list of completed projects funded by this Mini-Grant Program can be found at www.paddleantrim.com/completed-projects. Continue Reading
There will be live music from The Pistil Whips, costume contests, spooky drink features, and the tasting room and courtyard will be decorated to the nines.
We are looking forward to starting hosting our annual fall/winter events again, and Halloween is one of our favorites.
Ethanology | 125 Ames Street | Elk Rapids | (231) 498-2800
Torch Lake Cafe'
4990 US 31 N. Central Lake, MI
(231) 599-1111


Live Music Every
Friday & Saturday Night
Check Facebook Page for updates

152 River Street * Elk Rapids * (231) 264-9000
Truestream Celebrates 10,000th Fiber Internet Connection
 
BOYNE CITY, MI - Truestream, powered by Great Lakes Energy (GLE), celebrated the achievement of 10,000 fiber connections on Thursday, Sept. 30. This monumental achievement was met in less than three years from the first home installation of Truestream fiber on Oct. 25, 2018.
 
“To reach 10,000 connections in such a short period of time has been no small feat. The teamwork and coordination involved is truly inspiring,” stated Shaun Lamp, Truestream CEO. “We still have plenty more connections to make and we’ll continue working to reach our entire service area as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
 
Truestream, launched its fiber network in Emmet County in 2018, with future plans to reach all GLE electric members interested in life-changing, blazing fast internet and voice services. Connections are currently underway in Allegan, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Oceana, and Otsego counties. Construction plans for more areas will be announced later this year for the network build, which could take up to 10 years to complete.
 
GLE members should visit www.truestreamfiber.com to register and see the project status by area. 
Acme Christian Thrift Store * 8925 M-72 East * Williamsburg, MI 49690
(231) 938-2990 * acmechristian.org
On Friday, October 1st, Newton's Road celebrated their partner libraries in Grand Traverse and Kalkaska counties. They have achieved STEM Kits available to checkout in 21 regional libraries! Check out their video!

View video of Newton's Road visiting Elk Rapids District Library


04737 Fuller Road, East Jordan, MI * (231) 536-3369 miravenhill.org
FOLLOW THE ELK RAPIDS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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