ONE LAST LOOK back at 2023. Specifically, the last night of the year and the annual celebration in downtown Marquette. First, let’s give a big shout-out to the Digneits and the crew at Double Trouble Entertainment. Without them, the ball-drop probably wouldn’t happen. At least not in the Times Square style ... Continue Reading
2023 – The Year in Preview
With 2022 now a not-so-distant memory, it’s time to look forward at what we can anticipate seeing happen around here in ’23. It seemed like planners were real busy last year but planning and producing are two different things. I wouldn’t suggest that any of the developments currently on the drawing board are ... Continue Reading
The Valle’s Deal is Close, and the Tourists Are Here
Financing is in place STEP BY STEP, the conversion of the old, abandoned Valle's market into something more vibrant and exciting--the Third Street Marketplace--is coming closer to reality. Restaurateur Joe Constance is working on a deal to buy the property. "It's not finalized yet but I'm very optimistic," he says. ... Continue Reading
Survey Results: Downtown Marquette Facing a Huge Challenge
A SURVEY OF businesses just conducted by Marquette's Downtown Development Authority presents some concerning statistics. No, you could call them alarming. Question: If the COVID-19 business disruption continues, how long would it be before you're in danger of closing permanently? Answer: 27% say 1-2 ... Continue Reading
“I’m Afraid Some of Them Won’t Make It”
SO WE'RE LOOKING at a possible partial reopening of Michigan on May 1st. It can't come fast enough for most businesses in the Upper Peninsula. A recent Federal Reserve survey of the UP and six states to the west of us (but not Lower Michigan) revealed this: nearly sixty percent of UP businesses said if things didn't ... Continue Reading