Kelsey Niemisto

ISHPEMING — Have you stopped by the adorable gift shop on Ash Street in Ishpeming? If not, you have been missing out. Morrison’s Gift Shop is in the Miracle Shopping Center across from the Ishpeming Cemetery. The Gift Shop has been selling beautiful and sentimental gifts for the last 45 years.

 You are greeted with an array of items, including: Precious Moments goods, Hallmark cards, gift wrap, jewelry, clothing, hats, and purses.

According to the owner, Susan Dix, she and her husband, Charles, who is now retired after 52 years of pharmacy, purchased the store in July of 1972. After the purchase, Susan and Charles were joined by their two sons, Chuck Dix and Mike Dix, an additional pharmacist in the Dix family. This resulted in a family owned pharmacy. Nine years ago, the pharmacy moved to UP Health Systems-Bell (formerly Bell Hospital) in the Clinic Division.

Sherry Polkki, Susan’s right-hand woman, has been employed by Morrison’s Gift Shop for over 22 years. When asked why she’s stayed so long, Polkki says “it’s the people.”

 “We do have our regulars and we try to give personalized help to anyone who needs it, if it is by phone requests or in person. We are even willing to read cards to a customer if it is needed” Polkki said.

On Sherry’s day off, Betty Swendsen from Michigamme steps in to offer the same personalized services. Our newest employee, Donna Dix, will be joining the store too.

 The Morrison’s Gift Shop owners and employees are very fond of their neighbors, All Season’s Floral and Gifts and Straight Line Archery. Dix says they are all “one big, happy family” in the Miracle Shopping Center.

“You can find anything you’re looking for right here. Archery downstairs, floral needs next door, and of course us. We are a gift shop, with free gift wrapping, free layaway, personalized service, and most importantly, free hugs” said Dix.

For the month of July, the Gift Shop is celebrating their 45th Anniversary with weekly sales of 50 percent off selected items.

 For more information contact Morrison’s Gift Shop at (906) 485-5416.

Editor’s note: Kelsey Niemisto is marketing and community events coordinator of the Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce.