Gabi Kautz

The snow is melting. The birds are chirping. I think I’ve even seen a couple robins in the yard. We’re getting antsy for springtime around here! One could argue “it is spring!”, but I need to see (and feel) it to believe it.

We’re in the planning process of some fun events coming up this spring, and we’re excited to share them with you.

The first on the calendar is the third annual Chamber Children’s Carnival, presented by J-Goods Plumbing and Heating. The carnival is set to take place on Thursday, May 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at River Rock Lanes and Banquet Center. This is a completely free children’s event and open to the public. Take your kids out to enjoy carnival-style games, a dunk tank, a bounce house, and a free hot dog and pop for kids 12 and under. The games will have prizes like ice cream, candy, and small trinkets and toys. Last year, we saw over 400 children and their families come out to have a couple hours of free fun. We’re looking forward to seeing you all again this year! GINCC is proud to host a free, family-friendly event for the community. To learn more about the event and how your business or organization can be involved, email ginccdirector@gmail.com.

Coming up in early June is the much anticipated GINCC Townwide Rummage Sale! From Friday, June 7 to Sunday, June 9, peruse the neighborhoods of the West End to satisfy all of your impulse-buy needs. Residents of Ishpeming, Negaunee, Champion, Republic, Michigamme and the surrounding townships are all welcome to participate. A list of all participants is then compiled and put into categories of neighborhoods and areas to make it easier for shoppers to plan their day. The list will include the location, the sale’s top three items, and the days and hours that each sale will run. A small registration fee of $10 covers the cost of marketing and printing the lists. We’ve gotten such great feedback on this event in the past and have already received many questions about when it will be this year, so we know the community is looking forward to it! We think this is a fun way for folks to get out and mingle with their neighbors and fellow West End residents while also scoring some great finds. While you’re out and about, make sure to stop at a GINCC member restaurant for lunch! When you’re done shopping and your feet are tired from standing, stop at a GINCC member bar or brewery to relax with a cold beer or other drink of your choice. To be a part of the Townwide Rummage Sale, stop by the GINCC office for a sign-up sheet!

We hope you’re looking forward to these events just as much as we are! If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, we’d love to hear from you. Call our office at 906-486-1111 or stop by! We are located at 910 U.S. 41 West in Ishpeming.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Gabi Kautz is the communications & marketing assistant for GINCC. She currently resides in Ishpeming. She enjoys traveling, yoga and photography.