BLADE GATES: What do we do about social media? MANISTEE, MICH. – I hate social media. I also love social media.  Chances are, you know what I mean: a recent Pew Research study finds that over half of all U.S. adults say they get their news through social media at least some of the time.…

CARMEN KOTT: Leadership as a Journey MANISTEE, MICH. – Leadership is often seen as a role where you have all the answers and carry the full weight of responsibility. But the reality, especially for me stepping into the role of President & CEO of the Manistee Area Chamber, is that leadership is a journey –…

BLADE GATES: It Takes a Team MANISTEE, MICH. – Recently, I gave a presentation as part of ‘Talks, Tunes, and Tours’ at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, where I discussed what chambers of commerce are. It was a great opportunity for the public to learn the foundations of our work and to meet…

NICOLE KAMINSKI: The Manistee National Forest Festival: A Celebration of Community and Connection MANISTEE, MICH. – Each July, Manistee transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration along the shores of Lake Michigan. The Manistee National Forest Festival draws thousands of residents and visitors to Douglas Park and First Street Beach for a wide variety of…

ANDREW STAFFORD: On Economic Development MANISTEE, MICH. – After spending a year in Manistee County, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for this place and the people who make it special. As an outsider, I’ve felt genuinely welcomed and supported. People here know what they have: a tight-knit community, natural beauty, and a strong sense of…

BLADE GATES: Taking time to reflect MANISTEE, MICH. – Recently, the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce released their 2024 Impact Report, a recap of everything the Chamber has been up in the past year. It’s a great read, and I encourage you to take a minute and peruse it, especially if you want to learn…

CARMEN KOTT: A Season of Renewal: Embracing Change and Growth MANISTEE, MICH. –  As the days grow longer, the air warms, and the first blooms of spring color the landscape, our community stands at a moment of renewal-not just in nature, but in leadership. Spring has always been a season of transformation, a time to embrace…

BLADE GATES: “What does a chamber of commerce DO, anyways?” MANISTEE, MICH. –  When I tell people that I work for the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, about 50% of the time the follow-up question is this: “So what exactly does a chamber of commerce DO?” And it’s a valid question! Before I began working…

BLADE GATES: Take the first step MANISTEE, MICH. –  So… how’s that New Year’s resolution coming?  Whether you are making strides this year or have already given up on your goal, let me tell you that I’ve never been a huge stickler for New Year’s resolutions. But I sure love resolutions: the act of setting…

BLADE GATES: When the Change Is Always Changing MANISTEE, MICH. – In writing this, there are only a handful of days before we enter 2025. Once we do, we’ll never be in 2024 again. Do you ever stop and think about the significance of that? Greek philosopher Heraclitus said that “no man ever steps in…