Business Profiles 2018

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Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

s e l i f o r P s s e n i s Bu Index

Page

Company

3 ................................................................. Morton Salt

4 .............................................. Construction Design Inc. 6 ....................................................... Linke's Body Shop 8 .....................................................Lucky Lizard Awards

10 ..................................................................... Servpro

11 .......................................State Farm-Mary Sturdevant 12 .................................Olen's Talk of the Town Painting

14 .......................... How Shopping Locally Can Help You ......................................................... & Your Community 16 ....................Sports Ink Screen Printing & Embroidery 18 ............ Communities Can Celebrate Local Businesses

19 ...................................... The Benefits To Buying Local ........................................................This Holiday Season 20 ....................................... Manistee Insurance Agency .....................................................by Peterson McGregor

22 .................................... Parkdale Auto Sales & Service All of the articles were written by David Yarnell, Special to the News Advocate

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Morton Salt

Business Profiles 3

Company. Later another brother, Carl, and father, J. Sterling Morton Jr., also invested in the firm.

In 1909 the name was changed to Morton Salt Company. As the Over 170 years of experience has made Morton Salt Inc. the trusted primary purchaser of Manistee salt, in 1903 it purchased a Manistee fleet of three steamers to carry cargoes, especially salt from Manistee authority in salt in North America.

Morton has been part of the K+S Group since 2009. K+S is the to the Chicago warehouse.

world’s leading producer of salt and a supplier of standard and The Morton Salt Company was continuously expanding by purchasing specialty fertilizers. many plants and distribution and sales firms. Among these were the The company produces salt for culinary, water softening, household R. G. Peters plant in Eastlake and the Ruggles & Rademaker plant in and road deicing, food processing, chemical, pharmaceutical, and Manistee. numerous industrial uses. Manistee product lines include culinary, Because when salt exposed to humidity often caked or turned into water softening, swimming pool, household and road deicing salt. a brick, Morton Salt developed a round package with a moisture The Manistee plant, which employs 100, is among Morton’s barrier and pouring spout and added a small amount of magnesium more than 20 production facilities across the U.S., Canada and the carbonate (since changed to calcium silicate) to assure a free flow.

Bahamas. Morton’s affiliation with Manistee began 137 years ago, in They soon developed the slogan “When it rains it pours.” Later they 1881, making it Manistee’s longest continuously-running business. embraced the addition of iodine to eliminate goiter problems.

In April 1848 the firm Richmond & Company was established in In 1910 they developed the logo with the little girl with an umbrella Chicago “as agents for the distribution of Onondaga salt.” In 1879 with salt pouring out of a package.

Joy Morton, a 24 year old from Nebraska, purchased a one fifth interest in Elkins, Wheeler & Company. By that time the majority of In 2014 the Morton Salt Umbrella Girl, at age 100, received a slight update (one of seven through the years) and was voted onto the the firm’s salt came from the Saginaw/Bay City area.

Advertising Week Walk of Fame.

The Morton company contacted Charles Rietz in Manistee as soon as he discovered salt, and by the end of the century most of Morton’s salt The Morton family and the Morton Salt company has always been committed to community service. was from Manistee.

In 1886, Joy Morton and his younger brother Mark purchased In Manistee the company and its employees support local schools Wheeler’s interest and the firm was renamed Joy Morton and and charities through volunteering and donation of product.

SUPPORTING THE MANISTEE COMMUNITY SINCE 1930 180 SIXTH STREET, MANISTEE • MORTONSALT.COM

4

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Construction Design Incorporated (CDI)

Construction Design Incorporated (CDI) is described by owner Ed Kriskywicz as “a small, unassuming residential design and building firm that primarily works on second homes, cottages and lodges.”

Through the years CDI has designed projects in 26 states as well as Nova Scotia. The company’s work has been featured on Destination America Channel; Epic Log Homes 3, and in countless magazines.

CDI got its start in 1984 when Kriskywicz’s Benzie Central High School drafting teacher said to a local architect attending a basketball game, “You have to see this kids’ drawings.”

“I interviewed for a job with that architect, Caleb Luibrand, and as he started showing me the scope of work I would be doing, I was lost, confused and overwhelmed. I was sure that I would never be an architect, as I had hoped since I was 8 years old.

“But, apparently he saw something in me that I didn’t and hired me, and I worked for him for six years, leaving only to head off to college at my choice Lawrence Tech in Southfield.”

While a student at Lawrence Tech, Kriskywicz worked full time for architect and general contractor John Steward Associates. The company not only designed structures, but built them.

“I was hired to complete drafting, but soon I was literally thrown into the field because he was short of construction superintendents. John knew I would either sink or swim, and it was up to me, in my mid20s at the time, to succeed.”

Kriskywicz said he loved the daily excitement, challenges and problem solving of construction and after two years at Lawrence Tech he changed his goal to construction management and obtained his builders license.

“Then I started my own design/build firm in 1991.

Through all these years I still view Caleb and John as my mentors since both have influenced my entire career. I apply their teachings daily with my employees.”

Kriskywicz said CDI is unique in several ways.

“Northwestern Michigan does not have a lot of design/build firms that offer the type of ‘start to finish’ services we provide. We listen to the clients’ needs and create one of a kind designs to fit their lifestyles, sites and budgets.

The company’s reputation has spread throughout

the country and to Canada, primarily from referrals, “which is the best way to obtain these opportunities,” Kriskywicz said.

The staff includes Don Bialik, project manager/ carpenter; Madelyn Fitzsimmons, executive assistant and interior decorator; Troy Skiera, carpenter and Deb Mahan and Jeff Griffin, Auto-CAD technicians.

Kriskywicz, owner/president, is a licensed builder and the principle designer.

“Our business philosophy is simple,” Kriskywicz said.

“If you are going to do something, do it right.”

He said the most satisfying part of the business is seeing the excitement of clients at the completion of a build.

“And just like my mentors, I enjoy ‘building’ people,” Kriskywicz said. “Two former employees have started their own successful businesses. We have plans for Don Bialik to step into my position as owner, so he’s working on getting his builders license, and we are looking into construction management courses for Madelyn Fitzsimmons.”

Kriskywicz said he thinks business success depends on setting goals, and working to keep from getting stale.

“Being in business going on 28 years, we need to keep things fresh,” he said. “We need to keep up with technology and the new products and material that seem to be continuously changing.”

Kriskywicz said he is excited about a new location he purchased recently – the former automotive dealership at the corner of Washington Street and Fifth Avenue adjacent to North Channel Brewing.

“It fits our current and future needs since it’s 3,400 square feet larger than our current facility. I am looking forward to creating a wonderful and fun working environment.”

Through the years Kriskywicz and CDI have enjoyed involvement with the Manistee community. When he was a member of the Jaycees, the organization spearheaded the development of the Fifth Avenue Beach House. CDI donated its design and building services for the project.

He has also been a member of the Harbor Commission and Downtown Development Authority and he is currently on the tax review board.

CDI is a regular sponsor of local festivals and events.

cdi

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 5

construction design, inc.

Ed Kriskywicz

design, build...

Enjoy!

231-723-9552

ed@cdihomedesigns.com www.cdihomedesigns.com

6

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Linke’s Body Shop, Inc. For more than two-thirds of the years that there have been automobiles in Manistee, four generations of the Linke family have been specializing in restoring vehicles to pre-collision condition.

Rudy and Evelyn (Cookie) Linke remain the “senior” owners of Linke’s Body Shop while the day to day operations are handled by third generation Rick and Nicky Linke and fourth generation Michael and Rudy.

The business was started in 1941 by Rudy’s father Harlen Linke. It has lasted nearly 80 years because the owners and employees offer quality, friendly service.

“We treat people how we would like to be treated,” Nicky said.

“People really don’t want to come here, but when they do, we do our best to accommodate their needs.”

Harlen started the business as a one man shop and since it has grown to 11 employees, most

of whom have been with the company for over 15 years.

“Our certified technicians and paint specialists have the experience and knowledge to repair your vehicle to exact manufacturer specifications,” Nicky said. “We take tremendous pride in our work and even offer the added-value of a lifetime warranty.”

Linke’s Body Shop is a proud member of the Automotive Service Association.

“We happily work with all insurance companies and remind our customers that it is their right to choose their own repair facility.”

Through the years the business has been deeply involved with the community, currently donating to the big flag program and the Vogue Theatre.

“The best part of the business is being able to meet new people,” Nicky said. “We do our best to take an unfortunate situation and make it the best situation.”

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 7

Think Linke’s YOUR COLLISION SPECIALISTS...

To Restore Your Vehicle To Pre-accident Condition.

Your Loyalty & Support Has Taken Us Into

4 Generations.

• Professional Auto Body Repair • Foreign & American Made • Precision Color Matching

231-723-7206 423 Parkdale Avenue linkesbodyshop.com

Celebrating

77

YEARS

1941-2018

8

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Lucky Lizard Awards and Gifts Who would think that the Monnot family two car garage would be the launch pad for not one, but two successful businesses?

Shortly after Sharon Monnot started Sports Ink in the garage in 2003, she started getting requests for trophies and engraved items. So, daughter Lynn Vasquez stepped in to do that work and eventually started her own business, Lucky Lizard Awards and Gifts.

Both businesses have operated from their store at 316 Parkdale Ave. north of Manistee since 2009.

“The best part of owning and operating Lucky Lizard Awards is that it is part of my family,” Vasquez said. “My children and husband are in the shop a lot, helping and talking with customers. I am able to teach my kids life skills, which I hope one day will help them be great employees or bosses.”

Offering hiqh quality customer service is Vasquez’ No. 1 priority.

“I always do my best to provide quality products at a fair price, but most important is my customer. Without them, there is no Lucky Lizard. I don’t have a fancy slogan – I just offer fair, honest service and enjoy what I do.”

Trophies and awards are the focus of Lucky Lizard’s business.

“We do as much as possible in-house,” Vasquez said. “I engrave the plaques and awards here, so I’m able to customize any award to meet the needs of the customer.”

Lucky Lizard also has a large selection of gift items, from bar mugs to letter openers and card and dice sets.

“We can take a picture and put it on a coffee mug, puzzle, keychain and more,” Vasquez said.

Vasquez added that her business gives back to the community as much as possible.

“We donate many items for benefit silent auctions and regularly donate to local schools,” she said.

Vasquez said that in the very near future Lucky Lizard will begin offering a full line of promotional items.

“There will be hundreds and hundreds of items at competitive pricing,” she said.

“They will all be available on our website by the end of October – luckylizardawards. com.

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 9

• CUSTOM MEDALS • TROPHIES No ms! • PLAQUES u m i m i M • ENGRAVING • CORPORATE GIFTS • PERSONALIZED ITEMS

Check with us before you shop online!

Promotional Items Now Available!

316 PARKDALE AVENUE, MANISTEE

231-723-5696

WWW.LUCKYLIZ ARDAWARDS.COM

10

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

SERVPRO SERVPRO: Our Story

Locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Manistee, Ludington, and Cadillac (MLC) has been serving western Michigan since 2002.

Owners Bruce Hasenbank and Nicholas Jablonowski are proud to serve their communities by doing what they love: helping their neighbors.

SERVPRO of Manistee, Ludington and Cadillac specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. SERVPRO of Manistee, Ludington and Cadillac can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.

SERVPRO of Manistee, Ludington and Cadillac understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage loss and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Their goal is to help minimize the

interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO has been serving the local community for over 16 years and has grown from four employees to nearly 30.

Key personnel include Jeff Cook, Cadillac manager; Chuck Kolk, operations manager; Vicki Gauthier, office manager; and Shayne Eckerd, recon manager.

SERVPRO offers 24-7 disaster mitigation and restoration, fire, water, mold, bio-hazzard clean up, general cleaning, carpet cleaning and duct cleaning.

“Even though our work is extremely physical and mentally demanding we are blessed to have over a third of our workers females.

Thank you Nikki, Vicki, Lois, Deb, Victoria, Bettina, Laura, Emily and Kimberly. We couldn’t do it without you.”

Cleanup & Restoration™ 24/7 Emergency Service

FIRE WATER MOLD SERVPRO of Manistee, Ludington and Cadillac

231-723-4872

Like it never even happened.®

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Mary Sturdevant Insurance Agency Inc.

“I love helping people and being a part of their lives,” said Mary Sturdevant, owner of Mary Sturdevant Insurance Agency of Manistee.

A second generation State Farm Insurance agent, Sturdevant stresses the fact that the agency offers much more than auto and home insurance.

“We are a full service office from insurance to financial services including banking, mortgages and investments,” she said.

“The main purpose of our business is to help people prepare for the future and plan for the unexpected,” Sturdevant said. “Our customers tell us they like the fact they get personal service with a caring attitude.”

One of the most consistent challenges for the business, according to Sturdevant, is helping

Business Profiles 11

people try to understand auto insurance in Michigan.

“We also work hard to keep up with technology so we can better serve our policyholders.”

Key personnel besides Sturdevant include Christina Carlson, Amy Barron and Kay Morrow.

They help customers with auto, fire, life, health and business insurance as well as banking and mortgages.

The company, which will soon celebrate its 10th anniversary, gets involved with community events and nonprofit organizations, most notably Choices of Manistee County’s Purses for Carol program.

Hello, neighbor!

Please stop by and say, “Hi!” Mary Sturdevant Ins Agcy Inc Mary Sturdevant, Agent 306 Parkdale Ave Manistee, MI 49660 Bus: 231-723-9905

I’m looking forward to serving your needs for insurance and financial services.

Here to help life go right.®

CALL ME TODAY.

12

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Olen’s Talk of the Town Painting When a customer calls to get an estimate from Talk of the Town Painting, they know that not only are they getting the People’s Choice Award Winners, but the most comprehensive and diverse painting contractor in the area.

Over the past 37 years David Olen has been involved in almost every aspect of painting - from sand blasting to rigging of spider baskets and swing stages for aerial work to scaffolding and use of a manlift.

He has painted rail cars, bridges, the ice breaker Mackinaw, all the steel for the construction of the Ambar factory in Manistee, Arizona state prisons, water towers and tanks in Michigan and Arizona, the car ferry Badger, flight simulators at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, the Missouri state capitol, Guardian Angles Church, Arizona’s Tempe Performing Arts Center, Tempe Diablo Stadium, Manistee’s historic north pier catwalk and numerous Victorian homes and buildings in Manistee.

David started painting in 1981 with a painting contractor at Dow Chemical in Ludington. In 1986 David and his wife Judy founded Olen’s Painting Services, known today as “Talk of the Town Painting.”

Olen said his company has done jobs ranging from less than a gallon of paint to 3,500 gallons.

“One of the things that make our business excel is our commitment to keep up with the newest technologies available to us,” Olen said. “Paints are constantly changing.

There are differences in how they spread or spray and how they resist flaking, peeling, cracking, mold and UV damage, and retain color.”

“We don’t want potential customers to be misled by a great marketing campaign and end up buying an inferior product,” he continued. “We also have the latest in airassisted airless spray technology. It’s a unique paint sprayer that will work as an airless sprayer for large spraying projects and at the flip of a switch to a fine finish paint sprayer for doors, windows, trim and kitchen cabinets.”

Back from left to right: Rick Bennett, Justin Olen, David Olen, Byron Olen. Front left to right: Judy Olen, Leah Herbert.

“We have not seen anyone in this part of the state with the ability to remove lead based paint from siding, we also have multiple paint shavers and dustless lead-certified vacuums for removing lead paint,” Olen said.

“These are a few of the things that separate us from other contractors, as well as our guarantee and maintenance contracts that extend the protection of the paint job for an additional five years.”

Olen is proud of the fact that two members of his paint crew are his sons. “They’ve heard the language and technology of the trade their whole lives and started painting with me during summers at age 13,” he said. “Byron & Justin now have 28 years of painting experience between them.”

He noted that on his crew they have a background in carpentry, which is a big help on older homes and cottages.

“We have a saying amongst ourselves, ‘We know stuff,’ which comes from having done so many different things in our field. Our customers are amazed at how handling their problems doesn’t phase us.”

Olen’s Talk of the Town Painting strives to exceed the expectations of each and every customer. They do that by using the highest quality products and through attention to detail.

“Our favorite job will always be the one we are doing right now. Customer satisfaction is always our No. 1 concern as we strive to meet and exceed expectations. Quality preparation and the proper application is our reputation.”

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 13

The Painting Contractor You Can RECOMMEND!

PAINTING

“We know what it takes to earn your trust” • Lead Certified • Over 35 Years in the Painting Industry • Fully Insured • Quality Preparation and Application is our Reputation • Equipped for Jobs of All Sizes!

Check out our Facebook.com/Olens.Painting

Thank you for voting us the Best Painting Contractor!

231-301-1415 or 231-299-4934

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Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

How Shopping Locally Can Help You & Your Community Today’s consumers have more shopping options at their disposal than they did in years past. Though the Internet may put the world at one’s fingertips, more and more shoppers are discovering that buying locally makes for a superior shopping experience.

The benefits associated with shopping locally are many, and the following are just a few reasons why shoppers may want to look no further than their own communities when planning their next shopping excursions.

Keeps money in the local economy

Locally-owned businesses often put a larger share of their revenue back into their communities. Small business owners may be more inclined to employ local residents, giving more people in the community solid employment. Business owners may reach out and support other neighborhood efforts, such as fundraising initiatives for charities and schools. By shopping at local stores, you have a hand in supporting these efforts as well.

Save money

When factoring in travel time and the cost of fuel, shopping locally makes more sense than driving to a faraway mall. In addition, repeat customers who establish a rapport with a local business owner may find that such owners are more inclined to price match or work with loyal customers to find lower prices through suppliers.

Diversify your home and lifestyle

Shoppers who prefer more unique styles may

find local businesses cater to their needs better than large chain stores. Larger retailers offer the same products to customers regardless of where those customers live, so a person in California may be decorating his or her home with the same furnishings as a person in North Carolina. But local shops tend to produce more unique items that are not available nationwide.

Promote entrepreneurship

Small businesses are an essential element to the country’s economic growth. By shopping locally, consumers are showing their support for this important segment of the national economy.

Help establish local pride

Independent shops contribute to the fabric of a community and what makes it special and unique. Tourists and other visitors will be much more inclined to remember a local shop rather than a big chain in a particular neighborhood. When travelers want to get a feel for a community, they seek out small, local stores that are much more likely to stock a high percentage of locally-sourced goods.

Attract other businesses

Private and public sector businesses tend to gravitate around anchor stores. Should a local store be successful, banks, restaurants, salons, and other businesses may move in as well.

Shopping locally benefits consumers in various ways, many of which contribute to a healthy local economy.

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 15

16

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Sports Ink Screen Printing & Embroidery LLC

In 2003 Sharon Monnot needed a job. So she took the bold move of starting her own small business.

“After some intense research, I saw a need for another screen print and embroidery shop in Manistee, so I took the leap in starting my own business, knowing I could depend on my hard work and also the help of my family and friends to accomplish this dream.”

Monnot herself was surprised at the rapid growth of Sports Ink Screen Printing, necessitating a move from the original location – the two car garage at her home – to the current commercial location at 316 Parkdale Ave. in 2009.

Today the business includes the original fourcolor manual screen printer along with a six-color manual printer, six-color automated printer and a commercial embroidery machine along with five employees to keep up with the demand.

Sports Ink’s products and services include custom apparel, graphic design, embroidering, picture transfers, corporate apparel, digitizing, team discounts and school fundraisers.

“It’s our business philosophy to provide the best customer service and quality work possible,” Monnot said. “Our customers would rather talk to a real person than shop online. We have a great reputation for the quality of our work and our fair pricing.”

Monnot says from the start Sports Ink has stressed giving back to the community.

“We are always willing to help any community function,” she said.

The business has sponsored the Battle by the Lakes Softball Tournament, fundraisers for Homeward Bound Animal Shelter, golf tournaments, school activities and many other community events.

Outside of the Manistee area, way outside of the Manistee area, Sports Ink has donated apparel for orphans in Africa.

Her community involvement and business success was recognized in her induction into the Manistee Catholic Central Schools Hall of Fame in 2012.

She also received the Charles E. Schoedel Award from the Manistee Recreation Association in 2008, a business of the year award in 2007 and small business of the year award in 2012.

What’s the most satisfying aspect of running her own business?

“Being able to employ people and not only work with them, but call them my friends,” she said.

“Also, I enjoy seeing my customers satisfied when they pick up their apparel,

She also enjoys the fact that her daughter, Lynne Vasquez, has her business, Lucky Lizard Awards and Gifts, at the same location.

“When the business was still in my garage I was getting requests for engraved items, so Lynne started her business in 2007.”

Monnot also enjoys bringing her dog Sadie to work and watching her interact with the children who come in.

As Monnot looks to the future, she said she is excited about the possibility of opening an outlet in downtown Manistee.

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 17

t Gif cates tifi able! r e C vail A

SCREEN PRINTING & EMBROIDERY LLC We Offer: Team Uniforms Graphic Design Embroidery Digitizing Company & Corporate Apparel

We Welcome: Custom Orders Large & Small Orders (no minimums)

We Are: Family Owned & Operated Community Minded

NOT JUST A TEE SHIRT SHOP! 316 PARKDALE AVE. (NORTH US 31) MANISTEE 231-723-5696 • SPORTSINK@ATT.NET

WWW.SPORTSINKMANISTEE.COM

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Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Communities Can Celebrate Local Businesses Owning a business is the goal of many would-be entrepreneurs. Being your own boss has certain perks, including making your own hours and not having to report to anyone but yourself.

But owning a business is a lot of work, especially for new business owners trying to get their businesses off the ground.

According to Bloomberg, eight out of 10 entrepreneurs who start businesses fail within 18 months of opening their doors.

The Small Business Association indicates the numbers are not so dire, saying 30 percent of new businesses fail in the first two years of operation; 50 percent during the first five years; and 66 percent during the first 10.

Local businesses face an uphill battle to survive, but there are many things residents can do to support these valuable additions to their communities.

• Shop locally. Shopping locally not only supports local businesses, but it also contributes to the local economy. Shopping locally keeps money in the community, which can benefit everyone. Shopping locally produces a trickle-down effect, as local businesses that are thriving may patronize other local businesses, and so on.

This, in turn, helps grow other businesses in the community, making it a nicer place to live and work.

• Spread the word. Word-of-mouth advertising is effective. A respected

member of the community who shares a good experience with a local business may propel others to patronize the business.

Speak up when you feel a business owner has provided an exceptional level of service.

Recommend a company to friends and neighbors. You also may want to review a business via online rating websites such as Yelp or Angie’s List.

• Attend grand openings. Each community is unique, and often the vibe of a community is defined by the businesses that call that community home. Attend grand openings to show you are invested in the quality and vitality of your community. When others see a business doing well, they may be more inclined to shop there as well.

• Apply for work. Another way to support a local business is to work for one. Small local businesses employ millions of people across the country, and many foster great working environments. In addition, small businesses are known for their customer service, and employees often become experts in their products and services because of the handson experience they gain while working for small businesses.

Supporting and celebrating local businesses can instill a sense of community pride and benefit the local economy in a myriad of ways.

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

The Benefits To Buying Local This Holiday Season

Business Profiles 19

Holiday shopping dominates many people’s free time between the day after Thanksgiving and the final days before Christmas. While many people may shop ‘til they drop on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, those days still account for a relatively small amount of the hundreds of billions of dollars that are spent each holiday season.

Shoppers now have a bevy of options at their disposal as they embark on holiday shopping season.

Traditional in-store retailers are still around, and online shopping continues to grow in popularity with each holiday season. But many holiday shoppers are looking to buy local this holiday season, and such a decision can pay a host of dividends for both shoppers and the communities they call home.

• Buying local benefits your local economy. Studies from Civic Economics, an economics and strategics planning firm, found that independent, locallyowned retailers return a far greater percentage of their revenue into their local economies than national chain stores. One such study examined the disparity between revenue recirculation among independent, locally-owned businesses in Raleigh, North Carolina, versus four major national chains in the city. The former recirculated 51.1 percent of revenue into the local economy, while the latter recirculated less than 14 percent. Similar results were discovered in many cities, indicating that buying local not only benefits local business owners, but also the communities those owners and their customers call home.

• Buying local creates jobs in your community. One of the biggest ways local business owners in Raleigh recirculated their revenue in the local economy was job creation. While national chains also create jobs, such jobs only benefit your community if the chains are located within your community. If your local mall is a considerable drive away, chances are the chains within that mall are not employing many of your fellow community members. Local businesses in your community are more likely to employ residents of your town.

• Shopping local may provide access to more unique gifts. In addition to the economic benefits of buying local, shoppers may find merchandise made by local craftsmen is more unique than mass-produced items found on the shelves of national retailers. Recipients may cherish more unique items that they cannot find on their own, and that appreciation may even spur them to visit more local retailers after the holiday season has come and gone, benefiting their own communities in so doing.

• Local business may provide a more personal touch.

Buying from national chains has its advantages, but customer service is not always one of them. Should your loved ones encounter problems with their gift that requires assistance, they might be forced to wait on the phone for extended periods of time as they and thousands of others wait for customer service representatives to answer their calls. Local businesses do not deal with nearly the volume of customers as national retailers and, therefore, are capable of addressing concerns more quickly and personally than large chains.

Buying local not only benefits small business owners, but it also pays dividends for their customers and the communities they call home.

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Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Manistee Insurance Agency Manistee Insurance Agency, a company whose roots go deep into Manistee history, is an even stronger business today as a part of Peterson McGregor & Associates Insurance that also serves Traverse City, Cadillac, Lake City and Petoskey.

Owners Steve McGregor, Dennis Muth, Donn Westman and Raquel Paulus say their customers keep coming back to the firm because they focus on product expertise and providing excellence in customer service.

“Peterson McGregor and Associates is a locally-owned, independent insurance agency committed to offering excellence in customer service through personal communication with our clients,” the owners say. “We offer customized and competitively-priced insurance products, superior risk management and innovative technology solutions.

“Our experienced and personable staff will see to your needs, whether homeowners or auto insurance, workers comp or commercial liability, employee health benefits or life insurance. We’ve got you covered.”

Key personnel in addition to the owners include personal insurance specialists Kellie Keys, Tracy Gary, Cindy Vasquez and Mary Hartwig and commercial insurance specialists Steve McGregor and Holly Barber.

The company strives to maintain an exemplary company culture with employees at the center of a cohesive,

family oriented team.

“We promote excellence by encouraging and supporting continuing insurance education for our team,” the owners said. “We know we can offer every client the best service when we have the best expertise to back it up.

“No matter the insurance product, Peterson McGregor & Associates works to provide elite customer service to clients concerned with value, relationships and professional advice.”

The agency also relies on state-of-the art technology to promote best office practices. An innovative paperless workplace utilizes advanced software that allows electronic filing and customer access to insurance documents and health insurance records.

“The net result is a more efficient office, automated turnaround on customer requests and lower operating costs that directly benefit customers,” the owners say.

Peterson McGregor and Associates started in Traverse City in 2000 as an independent insurance agency focused on serving quality commercial customers.

Since then the company expanded to offer personal lines of insurance.

The company also supports its communities.

“Our staff readily participates in area volunteer opportunities and we are honored to support local events and a variety of nonprofit organizations.”

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 21

Locally Owned | Locally Minded Serving the insurance needs of businesses and individuals in Northern Michigan

HOME • AUTO • UMBRELLA • BUSINESS

Is changing their name to:

231-723-2566

330 River Street, Manistee www.petersonmcgregor.com

22

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Parkdale Auto Sales & Service Few things in life are more stressful than car trouble and you can rely on Parkdale Auto Sales and Service to be there to help!

Owners, John and Tyler Reed, aren’t strangers to the car care scene. In 2007 John was the manager of Manistee Car Care and then went on to form Parkdale Auto and Transmission in 2009. In 2014 John’s son Tyler joined the business and went on to create Parkdale Auto Sales which is a certified Carfax dealer that offers a standard warranty on every vehicle at no extra cost and welcomes all trade ins.

As a family owned and operated business, Parkdale Auto Sales and Service is committed to providing only the best in honesty, integrity and customer service. Selling and servicing all makes and models while proudly guaranteeing their work as an Auto Value Certified Service Center, makes choosing Parkdale Auto Sales and Service the right choice for your car sales and repair needs. They have top of the line equipment and 7 certified mechanics to get you back on the road.

Since being founded, Parkdale Auto Sales and Service has grown tremendously. In addition to car repairs, they are now a proud “Old Hickory Building” representative.

Browse their lot to see countless models and visit the office to learn about customization and other endless options that are available. Daily and weekly car rentals have also been added to the list of services they offer.

Call today for rates and availability.

Future plans for Parkdale Auto and Service include focusing on continuing to grow and perfecting their trade.

John, Tyler and all of Parkdale Auto Sales and Services staff look forward to helping you with your automotive needs!

MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT • October 2018

Business Profiles 23

RENTAL VEHICLES

15 Passenger Van Pictured.

OUR PRODUCTS: • Economy Vehicle • Full Size Sedan • 7 Passenger Van • 15 Passenger Van We have multiple vehicles available for rent!

All vehicles come with unlimited miles.

Call Us Today!

231-887-4646

Services Include Brakes • Tires Transmissions • Front End Engine Repair & Diagnostics Radiators • Alignments We Service All Makes & Models!

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED Parkdale Auto

Little River Casino

US- 31

Meijer

55

MHOURS: Mon. -Fri. 8AM-5PM • Sat. 9AM-1PM Available After Hours By Request

Now Selling Storage Buildings!

www.parkdaleautosales.com

231-887-4646 855 Parkdale Avenue • Manistee

24

Business Profiles

October 2018 • MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE & BENZIE COUNTY RECORD PATRIOT

Join Us For

TASTE OF MANISTEE COUNTY presented by the Manistee News Advocate

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND FROM 5-7:30PM IN THE RAMSDELL THEATRE BALLROOM 101 MAPLE ST., MANISTEE

$10 in Advance ~ $15 At the Door Enjoy samples from local restaurants, caterers and food trucks! Here are some of the local businesses from which to sample:

Restaurant Owners, Caterers & Food Trucks!!!

There’s still time to be a part of Taste of Manistee.

Contact Paula Laws at 231-398-3116

Oldest Operating Saloon in Town Famous Broasted Chicken Homemade Soups • Full Menu

NOW SERVING BREAKFAST Open 7 Days a Week Sun-Th 7am-9pm • Fri & Sat 7am-10pm

231-723-2487

723 Kosciusko

•

Manistee

La Riviera Mexican Grill

ut!

Tak.5e35O.0460 231

WINTER HOURS Closed Sunday & Monday Open 3-8 Tues. thru Thurs.

3-9 Friday & Saturday

Inside the Manistee Hotel 200 Arthur St • Manistee

ADVANCED TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT THE MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE, 75 MAPLE STREET IN MANISTEE OR BY CALLING 231-723-3592

215 Arthur St. Manistee, MI 49660 LaRivieraMexican@Gmail.com (231)887-4530 Mon. to Thur. - 11AM to 9PM Fri. and Sat. 11AM to 9:30PM Sun. - 11AM to 9PM Find us on Facebook

344 River St Manistee, MI 49660

(231) 887-4303 Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 11 am

719 Kosciusko St. Manistee, MI 49660

(231) 887-4577

Northern Spice Co.

“GREAT FOOD!!! FRIENDLY STAFF. A+ ALL WAY AROUND” —Loree Brown “Great People and Awesome Authentic Mexican Food.” — Lisa Hughes

Visit web-site for local retail locations northernspiceco.com

Make it a date night and enjoy the

ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL presented by the Manistee Civic Players downstairs in the theatre for an additional fee.

Call (231) 233-2803 for 2019 dates!