ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Escanaba Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has recognized the volunteers who make community events a success.
At Thursday’s City Council meeting, the DDA highlighted the work of residents and local professionals who generated ideas for new activities, promoted Escanaba traditions, and made efforts to make their town a little bit brighter. The following individuals received a plaque for their work:
Kurt Strassler, for setting up the DDA’s new portable stage at music events and helping stage crews.
DDA Chair and Nyman Jewelers owner Sue Parker, for taking active roles on several committees. She has worked on new and upcoming events like the Escanaba LogJam Music Festival and the Ludington Street Cruise car show, and she was instrumental in starting the first ArtWalk in October.
Farmers Market vendor Felicity Feathers, for helping to make this year’s Harvest Fest at the Marketplace a success, coming up with new ideas and activities. Feathers also provided homemade cookies for the hot chocolate events at the Christmas tree lighting and Christmas Parade.
Paul and Kathy Harvey, for their work on the Escanaba Chrsitmas Parade. Kathy coordinated the selection of the prince and princess, while Paul helped to determine float winners.
Bonifas Arts Center Gallery Director Kate Oman, for her support of projects like Art Week, the Escanaba LogJam Music Festival, youth art program Art @ the Marketplace, and the new ArtWalk.
Monte Morrison and Kevin Chown, for restoring historic street markers throughout Escanaba over the summer.
Enbridge, DTE Foundation, and Highline, for their sponsorship of the Escanaba LogJam Music Festival. Highline’s Paula Jordan was recognized for her personal involvement in various community activities.
Their work goes a long way toward supporting the DDA’s placemaking goals for what Director Craig Woerpel refers to as “Michigan’s longest small town downtown.”
“Placemaking helps to create vibrant, people-centered spaces that boost economic development, foster a sense of community, and enhance residents’ wellbeing,” Woerpel said, “which means that we are creating a community that they feel good about living in.”
In 2025, the Downtown Development Authority gave back to local businesses by helping to connect them with funding opportunties. The future Lake Effect Distillery was one of six Upper Peninsula businesses to receive a Match on Main grant this summer with the support of the DDA.
