Bob Hendrickson, IOHT

The Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce is a member driven organization that bridges businesses with the community, champions the buy local philosophy, promotes the West End of Marquette County as a whole to visit, live and explore, along with embracing the historical roots that make this area great.

Here at the GINCC we’re also looking forward to the opportunities ahead. Renewing partnerships with member businesses, welcoming new members and sharing stories of success while working on solutions to local challenges.

We recently restarted our Business After Hours events and encourage fellow business owners, community members and leaders to attend. Typically hosted by a member business, BAHs offer a chance to network not only with the hosting owner but other business owners and community members.

Dan Perkins Construction hosted our first BAH of 2022 on March 30 with over 50 people attending. Celebrating 25-years in business, Dan Perkins thanked those who attended and announced an opportunity for non-profit, educational or governmental organizations to apply for $10,000 roofing project. In addition, Perkins gave an update on one of the community projects he is very proud of, Partridge Creek Farm.

BAHs are held from 5-7pm on a week night. The atmosphere is casual, there are light refreshments served and an opportunity to win a few door prizes. Most importantly they are open to the public, free to attend and welcoming to all.

Our next BAH will be on Tuesday, April 19 hosted by OK Rental Sales & Service located at 609 Elm St, Ishpeming.

OK Rental recently complete building a new facility just adjacent to their previous location. There will be a dedication of the building just prior to the event and the community is encouraged to attend to check out all their services and products.

In addition to BAHs the GINCC hosts ribbon cuttings, open houses and additional special events to provide media exposure and recognition for chamber members. Typically ribbon cuttings are associated with an opening of a new business but have evolved into a special event to celebrate milestones, new avenues of venture and business owner changes. These are free of cost to chamber members and offers an excellent opportunity to obtain public recognition.

The GINCC also works with many organizations on the West End to assist with event promotion and publicity. If you are a member of an organization, contact the GINCC to find out what a membership can do for you.

To learn more about the GINCC, visit our website at www.gincc.org, give us a call or stop in. Office hours are 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. We are at times out of office on Chamber business. Please call ahead to confirm a visit, 906-486-1111.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Bob Hendrickson is the executive director of the GINCC. He currently resides in Negaunee with his wife, Laura, and daughter, Sierra. He enjoys mountain biking, skiing, fishing and hunting along with family time.