Vickie Micheau
ESCANABA It’s just seven weeks into 2021 and here we are again with a reminder that it is a very special year for the Delta County Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the Chamber Centennial. We are so thankful to our members who have allowed us to serve the community and support the growth of business and industry in Delta County for the last century.
Looking back at news archives over the last 100 years, it is obvious that the Chamber was actively involved in the strengthening of local business and community development. As an example, it was reported that the Chamber, in its first decade, was instrumental in leading the charge for the formation of Escanaba’s city manager form of government and launching the legislative movement that financially supported school districts. In the not-too-distant past, the Chamber continued its mission of community development by forming several community and economic development organizations.
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Caroline Carlson | Daily Press
The Delta County Chamber of Commerceâs new multi-use complex is home to the commerce centerâs organizations, Upper Peninsula Military Museum and the Webster Marble Inventing the Outdoors Museum. Pictured is Delta County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Vickie Micheau giving a tour of a World War II exhibit at the Upper Peninsula Military Museum.
ESCANABA The Delta County Chamber of Commerce will celebrate 100 years of dedication to its members and the community in July of 2021.
The area’s first chamber meeting was held on July 1, 1921 in Escanaba’s Strand Theatre. Original members included the William Bonifas Lumber Co., Escanaba and Lake Superior Railroad, Escanaba Paper Company, National Grocer, State Savings Bank, National Pole Company, Delta Hardware Co., Fair Savings Bank Department Store, J.K. Stack Estate, Escanaba Manufacturing Company, Birdseye Veneer, I Stephenson Co. Trustees, Delta Hotel, E
DNR photo
An ice angler enjoys an afternoon on an Upper Peninsula lake.
ESCANABA The winter tourism landscape looks different this year, both figuratively and literally. Delta County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Vickie Micheau points out that COVID-19 restrictions, as well as the late arrival of snow and ice have caused a decline in tourism.
“The lack of snow has put many outside activities behind schedule in the Escanaba area,” said Tammy Thiel, a director on the Visit Escanaba Board of Directors and owner of Bay View Motel. She added, however, that it is better for ice fishing to not have snow yet. “You don’t want the snow till the ice is thick,” she said.