ESCANABA — With Thanksgiving coming next week it is time to remember all the things that make living in Delta County great. It is not a mistake when visitors and tourists reference how friendly people are here. If you have lived in other parts of the country you would understand my point of view. The citizens are always selfless and willing to give of their time and treasure to others that are not as well off. Our volunteer organizations always step up to help our area with many well targeted programs to help out others in need.

We have four seasons of weather so we can enjoy many different outdoor activities. We don’t have to worry about the constant threat of wild fires, hurricanes, floods or tornados. We have a great education system in our area at all levels of the student experience and it keeps getting better. The many events we enjoy throughout the year are special and something we look forward to every year. We are starting to see a significant number of visitors ask themselves, Why don’t I move here? The quality of life, employment opportunities, cost of living and natural beauty is a mix that would be hard to beat anywhere!

If you hadn’t noticed we are seeing some tangible change on the water front in Escanaba. The demolition of the old jail property is underway. This will lead to the start of construction of the much anticipated 80 unit Hampton Inn in the spring of 2025. The other projects on the Lake Front will follow from there. We are already seeing many inquiries from prospective business owners looking to create a business in our downtowns. The time has come for many of the plans and visions our area leaders have discussed to start taking shape. We can all come together to support community leaders on this vison of the future. Looking to not only make our area an even better place to live now, but for generations going forward.

It is the time of year to start shopping for family and friends. Two important area events are coming up, Black Friday on Tuesday and the Tree Lighting in downtown Escanaba on Nov. 26th and An Old Fashioned Christmas & Tree Lighting in Downtown Gladstone on Friday Nov. 29th. Both events truly put you into the holiday mood and support our many local small businesses. I saw a study a long time ago that said every $1 spent locally revolves around the local economy seven times. You have any opportunity to give back to the small businesses that are always the first to say How can I help when there is a local fundraiser or benefit.

If you take the time to visit some of the stores during the events coming up you will see many interesting items that are uniquely from the UP. Being able to shop at these wonderful shops is one of the blessing of living here, please take advantage of this opportunity.

We have so many wonderful co-workers, friends and business partners in our everyday life to always make us feel good. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and your families.

— — —

Ed Legault is the executive director of the Delta County Economic Development Alliance