2008 Annual Luncheon

The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance held the 2008 NLEA Annual Luncheon on Friday, March 7, 2008, at the Mountain Grand Lodge in Boyne Falls. 280 economic development representatives from the NLEA’s four member counties (Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan and Emmet) attended. The NLEA recognized five individuals and businesses for their positive economic impact on northern Michigan.

Economic Development Project of the Year

Brian Braddock, NLEA Board Chair presents Jim Eklund of Petoskey Plastics with a recognition plaque as the Economic Development Project of the Year for their $3 million investment in renovating the former Great Lakes Gas Transmission Company building in downtown Petoskey as their new corporate headquarters. In addition to the manufacturing facility on US 31 S, Petoskey, the company has manufacturing facilities in Morristown, Tennessee, and Hartford City, Indiana, and employs 265 people.

Community Recognition

Guest speaker Joe Borgstrom, Director of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority's Community Assistance Team, recognized that several communities in the NLEA's four county service area are taking advantage of MSHDA's economic development tools and resources, and spoke about MSHDA programs designed to improve Michigan's downtowns. 

Maniac of the Year Award

Floyd Wright was presented with the Maniac of the Year award by Rick Diebold, NLEA Board Member, for driving three projects in East Jordan: the Main Street Center historic renovation which now houses eight businesses, the Lake Street Center renovation (formerly Dura) which provides shared business space for several commercial and manufacturing businesses, and the Jordan Valley Resort and Spa which will be under construction in downtown East Jordan this year.

125 Years of Service

Tad Malpass from the East Jordan Iron Works accepts a recognition on behalf of EJIW for providing jobs, economic stability and community support as they celebrate being a family owned business for 125 years.

Outstanding Leadership

Lydia Murray, northern Michigan’s liaison with the Michigan Economic Development Corp., was given a special recognition as presented by Randy Frykberg, NLEA Board Member, for outstanding leadership and support of economic development in Northern Michigan.

Service Recognition

Joan Blanchard, outgoing NLEA Board Treasurer, was thanked for her service on the Board of Directors from 1999 to 2007, including five years as treasurer.  Presenting her with a special plaque and beautiful flowers is NLEA Board Chair, Brian Braddock.