Bob Hendrickson

After a year that felt like the 2020 holidays were stolen by the Grinch, let’s make this season extra special.

For many local retailers and merchants, the holiday shopping season is one of the biggest income opportunities of the year. The competition from online retail keeps chipping away the local profit margin a little bit more each year. Because of that trend we need to start making a conscious effort to support our local community businesses.

As you head out the door on your holiday shopping give some thought to where you’re going to spend your money. Strategize your shopping plan, think about diversity. Your spending is part of our local community budget. Small Business Saturday on November 27 is your chance to invest.

The holidays aren’t just about shopping. Holiday events help build community too.

On Friday, November 26 the Ishpeming Community Events will be having its annual Christmas Parade on Main Street in downtown Ishpeming. The parade starts at 6pm with the tree lighting at Old Ish Park immediately afterward. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be attending so bundle up and come on out to this traditional Christmas kick-off event.

Activities don’t stop there in downtown Ishpeming. Throughout the month of December leading up to Christmas there will be opportunities to visit with Santa at Santa’s Workshop which will be in place for the whole season at Old Ish Park. On Thursdays (December 2, 9 and 16) from 5-7pm, kids and parents are invited to visit with Santa. For more information go the Ishpeming Community Events Facebook page for updates and additional activities.

Tinseltown returns to downtown Negaunee on Saturday, December 11 from 4-7pm. The town will light up with performances by the Negaunee High School Band, Lakeview Fourth Grade Chorus, Negaunee City Band and Negaunee Male Chorus. Businesses will have shopping specials.

The parade up Iron Street will be at 6pm followed by a gathering at the Tunnel of Lights for a Christmas Tree lighting across from the Negaunee Fire Department. Santa will be at the Negaunee Elks Club to meet kids and parents after the lighting. For more information go to the Negaunee Downtown Development Authority Facebook page at Negaunee DDA.

During all the hustle and bustle of this Holiday Season, take a few moments to appreciate what it is all about: celebration, family, community, sharing, caring and giving.

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.