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NICOLE KAMINSKI: The Power of Connection: Why Networking and Collaboration Matter MANISTEE, MICH. – At the heart of every strong business community is connection. Networking and collaboration programs play a vital role in bringing people together – creating opportunities not only for professional growth, but for building relationships that strengthen the entire community. In today’s…

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…