Old Town Commercial Association

Old Town Newsletter - May 2024

Welcome to our June 2024 newsletter, where we celebrate Pride Month with open hearts and unwavering support. As we embrace the vibrant colors of diversity, this edition promises to be a kaleidoscope of exciting news and upcoming events. Join us in commemorating love, acceptance, and the relentless pursuit of equality!

by Tia Barrera on June 12

THIS MONTH’S

TOP STORIES

Chalk of the Town 2024 Winners!

by Tia Barrera on June 12

Chalk of the Town was a huge success this year! Artists covered the historical streets of Old Town with beautiful chalk art (and plenty of Mrs. Ropers were walking around to take in the sights)! This event was incredible, and we couldn't have done it without you! We also had quite a few winners of the chalk drawing contest, congratulations to the following:

18+ Individual 1st Place: Hilary MacDonald

2nd Place: Sam Sikkenga

Group 1st Place: Sean & Sarah Evans

2nd Place: Maranda Chavez & Friends

17 and Under 1st Place: Kaylee Miner

2nd Place: Olivia Moyer

Thank you once again for your continued support, and we hope you'll join us again next year!

Join Us for Wake Up Old Town: June Edition!

by Tia Barrera on June 12

It's time for our third installment of Wake Up Old Town, our monthly networking event aimed at making connections, sparking ideas, and encouraging collaboration among professionals both within and beyond our district. As we embrace the warmth of June, let's gather once again to celebrate synergy and community spirit!

This month's session will be hosted by our fairly new neighbors, Copper Moon - an event space by W.E.D from 8:30am to 9:30am at 1247 Center Street in Old Town, Lansing.

Summer Merchant Meetup!

by Tia Barrera on June 12

We're back with our quarterly Merchant Meetups! Join us at 6pm on Monday, June 17 at Struk Studio (2916 Turner Road) to reconnect with your neighbors, hear OTCA updates, and share what's happening with your business too! A response is required for planning purposes, please let us know if you can attend. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.

We would like to thank the team at Struk Studio for opening their space up to the community! Struk Studio opened in 2023 at the hand of David Such. Just one mile North from the corner of Turner & E. Cesar E. Chavez, Struk Studio is a gallery that celebrates the realm of sculpture, paintings, art objects, and curiosities. The studio offers a unique and immersive experience for art enthusiasts and buyers alike. Be sure to check them out!

Newest Golden Gnome Recipient - Debbie Smoller

by Tia Barrera on June 12

The newest Golden Gnome recipient is Debbie Smoller with Old Town Tails! Lynn Ross from Mother & Earth: Toys + Baby passed on the Golden Gnome because of Debbie's ever-changing artwork in the windows and colorful flags she generally has outside of her business. Plus, we hear Debbie is quite the gardener!

As a reminder, the Golden Gnome is passed on by the most recent winner to the next person/business they believe is working to make Old Town more beautiful. Thanks to both Debbie and Lynn for their efforts!

Join Our Team: AmeriCorps Member for 2024-25

by Tia Barrera on June 12

As we gear up for a new chapter in our organization's journey, we're excited to announce that the Old Town Commercial Association (OTCA) has an open AmeriCorps position for the 2024-25 term! AmeriCorps members play a pivotal role in enhancing our capacity to achieve the ambitious goals we've set as an organization.

Position Details:

• Role: AmeriCorps Member
• Term: 2024-25
• Responsibilities: Developing and implementing strategies for member and volunteer engagement
• Commitment: Full-time, year-long position with a living allowance of $26,000 and other benefits
• Start Date: September 2024
• Deadline to Apply: Monday, July 15, 2024

How to Apply:

Interested candidates can find the full job description and application details here. Don't miss this opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our community while gaining valuable experience and professional development!

This program is managed by the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM). CEDAM is a network of community champions building an equitable Michigan. Through engagement and collaboration, they sustain a thriving and equitable community economic development sector across the state.

Upcoming Events & Activities:

DLI Mini-Makeover Walking Tour Reveal & Celebration

Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 5:30pm

Lansing Pride Festival - 2024

Saturday, June 22, 2024 from 1:00pm - 10:00pm

June Wake Up Old Town

Thursday, June 27, 2024 from 8:30am - 9:30am

Turner-Dodge Fairytale Festival 2024

Saturday, June 29, 2024 from 12:00pm - 6:00pm

Call to Action: Get Involved!

Are you passionate about Old Town’s heritage and vitality? Join us in making a difference! Whether you’re interested in volunteering, attending our events, or supporting our initiatives, there are countless ways to get involved. Together, we can create a thriving community we’re proud to call home.

Learn more here!

Ready to get started? Fill out our volunteer interest form!

Current Volunteer Opportunity - Lansing Pride Festival 2024

Lansing Pride will once again be taking place in Old Town on June 22nd and they need volunteers to make it happen! Be a part of Michigan's most amazing Pride event!

Sign up here!

Current Volunteer Opportunity - ScrapFest 14

ScrapFest 14 is looking for volunteers! Without your help, this event would not be possible!

If you're interested in helping, please review the available slots on the website for ScrapFest, ReFashion Show and The Great Scrap Run.

*Volunteers must be 18+

Connect with Us:

Stay updated on all things Old Town by following us on social media:

Facebook: Old Town Lansing

Instagram: oldtownlansing

Contact Information:

Old Town Commercial Association

1232 Turner Street

Lansing, MI 48906

Phone: (517) 485-4283

Email: oldtown@oldtownmainstreet.org

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to Old Town’s success. Welcome to our new OTCA members: H Inc., Red Cedar Friends Meeting, Scoops, Schrader Properties, and Matthew Ryan Salon! Together, we're shaping a brighter future for our community!

Warm regards,

Tia Barrera

Volunteer & Communications Specialist | AmeriCorps Member

Old Town Commercial Association

Old Town Commercial Association

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