I’ve been a proud Michigander and Charlevoix resident my entire life.
What does Downtown Charlevoix mean to you?
Downtown Charlevoix is the heart of our city. The place where friends, neighbors, and family come to eat food, shop goods, and make memories. It embodies Charlevoix’s positive culture, local entrepreneurship, involved citizens, and an ever-growing community.
Why did you decide to serve on the City of Charlevoix Downtown Development Authority?
I took the opportunity to serve on Charlevoix’s DDA to represent my high school peers and bring the youth voice to community discussions. More opinions means better decisions; through student engagement, cities can be assured their ideas are gaged and designed for all age groups.
What is the best part of being on the DDA?
One of the best parts about being on Charlevoix’s DDA is working directly with successful entrepreneurs to better the community we all love. I’m able to learn a great deal about communication, business, and the bedrock principles of government our country was founded upon.
What are some downtown projects you are excited about?
Although blunted by a pandemic, Junior Main Street is one of Charlevoix’s unique programs that has done miles of work so far and plans to develop more projects to better our community. I’m excited to see the next steps with this collaboration between the local high school and Charlevoix’s DDA.
What is your favorite downtown event?
A tough choice, but my favorite downtown event would have to be Venetian Festival. I have many good memories associated with Venetian (petting llamas, riding the Ferris wheel, eating elephant ears) – not to mention the immense surge in business for all downtown stores.
What restaurant are you going to next?
I can’t wait to have another delicious stack of hotcakes at the Harbor View Cafe.
What is your favorite winter activity in Charlevoix?
I like to go skiing at our local and community-loved hill: Mt. McSauba.
If you had one piece of advice to give to those considering volunteering, what would it be?
Volunteering your time to improve your city is one of the most impactful ways you can positively affect your community. Your city wants your help, don’t be afraid to take the initiative.