LSCP ribbon cuttings are funded by Flourish Financial Partners®
2025 Celebrations
Nicolet National Bank’s Ishpeming Branch Celebrates its Remodel with a Ribbon Cutting
March 28, 2025
Ishpeming, Mich. – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of Nicolet National Bank’s Ishpeming Branch remodel on Friday, March 28. The branch, located at 100 S Main St, Ishpeming, MI 49849, underwent significant updates aimed at enhancing customer service and revitalizing the space.
The renovation streamlines operations by integrating teller and drive-thru services, improving efficiency for both customers and staff. Additionally, the branch’s footprint was reduced, freeing up a large portion of the building for potential future housing opportunities in downtown Ishpeming.
“Remaining an integral part of the historical downtown community is important to Nicolet Bank,” said Erica Shefchik, VP of Marketing for Nicolet. “This investment not only revitalizes the building but also energizes the broader community by infusing fresh opportunities and possibilities into the area.”
Nicolet National Bank is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., with drive-up service available until 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit nicoletbank.com
Pictured left to right: Mary Myers, LSCP Director of Economic Development Services; Scott Knaffla, Marquette County Ambassadors; Guest; Bryan Sromalski, Prime; Guest; Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Jeremy Bloomfield, Nicolet National Bank (NNB); Todd Sabourin, Miron Construction; Mark Calhoun, NNB; John Flatley, NNB; Leah Vizena, NNB; Emily Lachapelle-Mumm, NNB; Brad Mumm; Marilena Corradino, NNB; Bret Keefe, NNB; Guest; Tia Rodda, NNB; Unknown; Boris Martysz, NNB; Luke Oberdorfer, Miron Construction; Bridget Seelen, NNB; Jack Frost, NNB; Morgan Zeinert, Miron Construction; Ben Argall, Ishpeming City Council; Brett Argall, Ishpeming City Council; Bryan Hyska, NNB; Guest ; Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic and Development Coordinator
J and H Forest Farm Apothecary and Gifts Celebrates Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
March 26, 2025
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted J and H Forest Farm Apothecary and Gifts with a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of its brick-and-mortar shop on Wednesday, March 26. J and H Forest Farm, a unique locally-owned business, is proud to announce the grand opening of their new shop located at 617 N 3rd St. in Marquette. This is a one-of-a-kind retail space that will offer natural, locally grown, and handmade products inspired by the beauty and tranquility of the forest.
Owned and operated by Dewey and Amy Horton, the farm itself spans 40 acres of lush forest in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where every product sold is sourced directly from the land. From handcrafted wooden mosaic signs made by Amy using fallen trees from their backyard to herbal remedies formulated by Dewey, who has studied herbalism for over 20 years, J and H Forest Farm is committed to providing high-quality, sustainable goods rooted in their love for nature.
The Apothecary and Gift shop offers a variety of herbal salves, soaps, lotions, and a monthly herbalism subscription box. They also welcome custom orders. You can view their online shop at jhforestfarm.com.
J and H Forest Farm Apothecary and Gifts is open Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information contact jhforestfarms@gmail.com or call (616) 406-9149.
Pictured left to right: Tara Laase-McKinney, Marquette DDA Executive Director; Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Michael Bradford, Marquette DDA Business Outreach and Promotions Director; Gina Calcaterra, Flourish Financial Partners®; Scott Knaffla, Flourish Financial Partners®; Patricia Davis, Marquette County Ambassador; Michael Johnson; Dewey Horton, J and H Forest Farm Apothecary and Gifts Owner; Amy Horton, J and H Forest Farm Apothecary and Gifts Owner; Chris Horton; Gabe Johnson; Jodi Ouellette, Office of U.S. Congressman Jack Bergman; Brian Shier, Marquette Farmers Market Manager; Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic Development Coordinator
Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport Completes Waiting Area Expansion to Enhance Passenger Experience
March 25, 2025
Gwinn, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) recently assisted with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport (SAW) to celebrate the completed expansion of the waiting area. Approved by the Marquette County Board, this initiative increased seating capacity and improved passenger convenience within the terminal.
With growing traveler numbers due to overlapping departures of American Airlines and Delta Air Lines flights, the previous post-security seating area had become overcrowded. To create more space, airport officials relocated the security checkpoint closer to the terminal entrance, allowing for the addition of 65 new seats. The project, which cost approximately $400,000, has created a more pleasant and efficient travel experience at SAW.
“We are thrilled to provide a more comfortable and spacious waiting area for our passengers,” said Duane DuRay, Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport Director. “This expansion allows travelers to relax and enjoy their time at the airport before their flights, making Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport an even more welcoming gateway to our community. We appreciate the county’s and our partners’ support in making this project a reality.”
For more details on Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, visit sawyerairport.com.
Pictured left to right: Tracy Croley, Flourish Financial Partners®; Jodi Ouellette, Office of U.S. Congressman Jack Bergman; Christopher Germain, LSCP CEO; Duane DuRay, Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, Airport Director; Stacey Fisher, Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport Operations Coordinator; Greg Zyburt, Marquette County Ambassador; Dana LaLonde, Marquette County Board Commissioner; Mary Myers, LSCP Director of Economic Development Services
Forest Flyers Ninja Academy Celebrates its Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting
March 24, 2025
Negaunee, Mich. – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of the Forest Flyers Ninja Academy on Monday, March 24. The Ninja Academy is located at 400 US Route 41, Suite 106, Negaunee, MI.
Forest Flyers Ninja Academy is a fully equipped indoor ninja gym dedicated to inspiring children ages three to seventeen of all abilities, backgrounds, and mindsets to lead active and healthy lifestyles. The academy offers a fun, safe and challenging environment where kids can develop physical skills, build self-confidence and form friendships.
“Forest Flyers Ninja is about teaching children to face life’s obstacles and challenges with courage, determination, resilience, and grit—both in the gym and in life,” said Adela Piper, co-founder of Forest Flyers Ninja Academy.
“We’ve seen firsthand how it impacts both physical and mental health. With long winters in the U.P., there’s a growing need for indoor activities that empower our youth, and Forest Flyers Ninja aims to meet that need,” added Jason Piper, co-founder of Forest Flyers Ninja Academy.
Classes are held once a week for up to 50 minutes, grouped by age, and designed for preschool, elementary, teen, and homeschool groups. Within these classes, kids will swing, jump, roll, balance, and tackle obstacles. Ninjas progress through a six-level curriculum, maintaining a maximum 10:1 student-to-instructor ratio. The academy will also provide space rentals for private parties.
For more information, visit forestflyersninja.com or email hello@forestflyersninja.com.
Pictured left to right: Kelly Gabry, Siren Strategy Director of Operations; Ally Johnson, Forest Flyers Ninja Academy; Lauren Rotundo, LSCP Small Business Promotions Specialist; Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Liam Bridges, Forest Flyers Ninja Academy; Jason Piper, Forest Flyers Ninja Academy Co-Founder; Isaac Piper; Adela Piper, Forest Flyers Ninja Academy Co-Founder; Isla Piper; Nate Heffron, City of Negaunee City Manager; Emmett Larson, Forest Flyers Ninja Academy; Michelle Sellers, Marquette County Ambassadors; Finn Loos, Forest Flyers Ninja Academy; Dave Aro, Marquette County Ambassadors, West End Advisory Council; Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic and Development Coordinator; Tracy Croley, Flourish Financial Partners; Katie Kern, West End Advisory Council
Firelight & Co. Marks Two Years of Growth and Success
March 12, 2025
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted Firelight & Co., a leading provider of premium cannabis products, in celebrating its second anniversary on March 5, 2025. Founded by industry experts Cinthia Tancinco and Ken Tancinco, Firelight & Co. has continued to grow as a trusted source of high-quality cannabis products at affordable prices.
As Firelight & Co. marks its second year in business, the company remains committed to delivering excellence to its valued customers. With a strong focus on quality assurance, Firelight & Co. carefully curates its product offerings to ensure the highest standards of purity, potency, and consistency.
“Reaching our second anniversary is an incredible milestone, and we are grateful for the support of our community,” says Ken and Cinthia Tancinco, CEOs of Firelight & Co. “Our background in the medical field and business continues to guide us in providing high-quality cannabis products at accessible prices, ensuring our customers receive the best experience possible.”
Firelight & Co. remains dedicated to affordability, recognizing the importance of making cannabis accessible to all. Through efficient operations and strategic partnerships, the company continues to pass cost savings on to customers without compromising quality.
To celebrate its second anniversary, Firelight & Co. hosted special promotions, exclusive product demonstrations, and exciting giveaways, with opportunities to win a variety of exciting prizes.
“The celebration is our way of giving back to the customers who have supported us over the past two years,” adds Ken and Cinthia. “We look forward to continuing to serve our community with high-quality, affordable cannabis products.”
For more information about Firelight & Co., please visit firelightandco.com or call 906-273-1116.
About Firelight & Co.
Firelight & Co. is a leading provider of premium cannabis products, committed to delivering excellence in quality and affordability. With a focus on purity, potency, and consistency, Firelight & Co. offers a curated selection of top-quality cannabis products to meet the diverse needs of its customers. Founded by industry experts with backgrounds in the medical field and business, Firelight & Co. strives to make cannabis accessible to all while maintaining the highest standards of excellence.
Pictured left to right: Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Tracy Croley, Flourish Financial Partners; Cinthia Tancinco, and Ken Tancinco, Firelight & Co. Founders & CEOs; Hanna Westra, LSCP Outreach & Development Specialist
GLP Pharmacy Celebrates Grand Opening in Marquette, Offering Affordable Compounded Medications
February 26, 2025
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted GLP Pharmacy with a ribbon cutting to celebrate its grand opening in Marquette. GLP Pharmacy is a new, patient-centered pharmacy in Marquette that focuses on providing affordable, and convenient compounded medications for patients who need GLP-1 treatments.
GLP Pharmacy was founded to address the growing challenges in healthcare related to the availability and cost of GLP-1 medications. The pharmacy offers compounded alternatives, made under strict FDA guidelines for drug shortages, giving patients a reliable solution to meet their healthcare needs without the burdens of rising costs or limited access. “Providing excellent patient care is the main priority here at GLP Pharmacy,” said David DeMerse, Head Pharmacist and Owner.
GLP Pharmacy is licensed in Michigan and Wisconsin. Unlike traditional pharmacies, GLP Pharmacy operates outside the insurance-based pricing system and does not accept third-party insurance plans, eliminating the need for prior authorizations. To make healthcare more accessible, the pharmacy proudly accepts HSA and FSA payments. They also offer a telemedicine option as an added convenience.
GLP Pharmacy is located at 1645 Commerce Dr, Marquette, MI 49855. You can find them online at glppharmacy.com or contact them at (844) 906-4571.
Pictured left to right: Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Crystal Main, GLP Pharmacy Technician; David DeMerse, GLP Head Pharmacist and Owner; Steve VandenAvond, Marquette County Ambassador; Hanna Westra, LSCP Outreach and Development Specialist
El Santo Tacos & Tequila Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting to Mark Growing Success of Traditional Mexican Tacos and Vibrant Dining Experience
February 24, 2025
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted El Santo Tacos & Tequila with a ribbon-cutting to mark its growing presence in the community. The vibrant new taco restaurant has been open since August, offering a menu rooted in the bold tastes of Mexican cuisine. El Santo prides itself on creating a welcoming atmosphere where the community can come together to savor great food and good times.
El Santo has quickly become a local favorite, known for its authentic, traditional Mexican flavors and diverse selection of house-made salsas. Specializing in the beloved Quesabirria tacos—slow-cooked beef marinated with ancho and guajillo peppers along with a blend of spices from Mexico—the restaurant offers an unmatched dining experience with every bite. Whether you’re a taco connoisseur or a newcomer to Mexican cuisine, El Santo brings a fresh and flavorful twist to the taco scene.
“Our goal at El Santo is to provide a true taste of Mexico and give our guests a unique experience that highlights the rich, bold flavors of traditional tacos, salsas, and excellent tequila,” says Ramon Ayala, Manager of El Santo. “We want people to enjoy every bite, whether they’re here for dine-in, takeout, or drinks to go.”
Since opening its doors in August, El Santo has gained momentum with locals and visitors, thanks to its standout menu offerings and authentic atmosphere. With an impressive range of popular beverages, including drinks available to-go, guests are treated to a complete sensory experience. El Santo Tacos & Tequila is located at 113 W Baraga Ave, Marquette, MI 49855, and can be reached at (906) 273-0709 or via Facebook. They are open Monday through Friday 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Pictured left to right: Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Giovanni Lopez, El Santo; Tara Laase-McKinney, Marquette DDA; Santiago Romo, El Santo; Mike Bradford, Marquette DDA; Enrique Bustos, El Santo; Ramon Ayala, El Santo Manager; Sergio Chilel, El Santo; Brayan Romo, El Santo; Abraham Alatorre, El Santo; Tony Ayala, El Santo; Carlos Romo, El Santo Owner; Felix Hernandez, El Santo; Hanna Westra, LSCP Outreach and Development Specialist; Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic Development Coordinator
Aurora Fitness Celebrates its Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting
February 19, 2025
Ishpeming, MI – Aurora Fitness & Yoga celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, February 19, at 1000 Country Lane, Ste. 600, Ishpeming, MI. Assisted by the Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP), the event marked the official launch of the studio’s mission to provide inclusive wellness opportunities through a variety of yoga and group fitness classes for all experience levels.
Aurora Fitness & Yoga was born out of a deep appreciation for the local yoga community. When Jim and Katie Gray learned that the previous studio was closing, they were inspired to step in and continue offering yoga while expanding into group fitness to better serve the West End.
“When my wife came home from yoga in December and told me the studio was closing, we never imagined we’d be opening our own just a few months later,” said Jim Gray. “A week later, she said, ‘What if we start a fitness and yoga studio?’ From that moment on, we’ve been working tirelessly to bring this dream to life.”
The studio’s name, Aurora Fitness & Yoga, draws inspiration from the northern lights; symbolizing beauty, wonder, and the extraordinary power of nature. The Grays hope to create a space that captivates and energizes the community in the same way.
Aurora Fitness & Yoga offers a range of classes for all levels, including seated options, beginner-friendly sessions, and group fitness programs, making movement accessible for everyone.
For more information, follow @aurorafit906 on Facebook and Instagram.
Pictured left to right: Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic and Development Coordinator; Tia Rodda, West End Advisory Council; Brett Argal, Ishpeming City Council, Ishpeming DDA; Kurt Kipling, Ishpeming City Council; Pat Scanlon, Ishpeming Mayor; Lauren Rotundo, LSCP Small Business Support Specialist; Megan Gray; Jim Gray, Aurora Fitness & Yoga Co-owner; Katie Gray, Aurora Fitness & Yoga Co-owner; LJ Gray; Katelyn Gray; Katelyn Gage, West End Advisory Council; Diana Sundberg, West End Advisory Council; Jen Williams; Katie Kern, West End Advisory Council
New Hotel Opens in the Heart of Marquette, Michigan, with Lake Superior-Themed Decor and Exceptional Amenities
February 18, 2025
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted Best Western Plus, a brand-new hospitality destination in the heart of Marquette, in celebrating its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting. Offering guests a unique experience with its Lake Superior-inspired local decor and a focus on creating a positive community presence, the hotel promises to be more than just a place to stay—it is designed to be a welcoming and vibrant part of the Marquette area.
Located centrally, Best Western Plus provides guests with unparalleled access to Lake Superior’s beautiful surroundings while offering various modern amenities that make it the perfect destination for both leisure and business travelers. Features include complimentary full breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor heated pool, and EV charging stations
“We’re excited to be part of the Marquette community and to offer our guests a place that goes beyond just a place to sleep,” said Aimee Raffaelli, Best Western Plus Sales and Marketing Manager. “We’ve designed our hotel to embody the beauty and spirit of Lake Superior, and our commitment to customer service and local involvement ensures that we will be an integral part of the area’s growth.”
Best Western Plus believes that every guest should feel like family. Their friendly, attentive staff is committed to delivering the highest level of customer service and ensuring that each guest’s stay is memorable, comfortable, and filled with personal touches that reflect the warmth and hospitality of Marquette. When you stay at Best Western Plus you experience the charm of Marquette and the beauty of Lake Superior, all while enjoying the exceptional amenities provided.
Best Western Plus is located at 1200 Wilson St., Marquette, MI 49855. For more information or to book a stay, visit bestwestern.com or call (906)331-1002.
Pictured left to right: Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic and Development Coordinator; Dayton Moyle, Moyle Construction; Tom Moyle, Moyle Development; Sally Davis, City of Marquette Commissioner; Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Jodi Ouellette, Office of U.S. Congressman Jack Bergman; Jessica Hanley, City of Marquette Mayor; Alan Aho, Best Western Director of Hospitality; Chad Barningham, Best Western; Claire Pfohl, Best Western; Paul Thares, LSCP Community Development Programming Coordinator; Ally Fontaine, Best Western; Thadius Schmitt, Best Western; Paul Schloegel, City of Marquette Commissioner; Heather Hernandez, Best Western General Manager; Amber Hemstock, Best Western; Jordan Berger, Best Western; Lauryn Horne, Best Western; Ashley Whitmarsh, Best Western; Nathan Fritz, Best Western; Cylie Reside, Best Western; Michael Schofield, Best Western; Janet Schmitz, Best Western; Heather Mosher, Marquette County Ambassadors; Christopher Germain, LSCP CEO; Scott Erbisch, Marquette County Ambassadors; Hanna Westra, LSCP Outreach and Development Specialist
Elements & Bodywork Celebrates its Rebranding with a Ribbon Cutting
February 7, 2025
Ishpeming, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) assisted Elements & Bodywork in celebrating its official ribbon cutting on Friday, February 7, at its location on 118 East Division Street, Ishpeming.
Elements & Bodywork is a dynamic business dedicated to promoting holistic healing and wellness. With a focus on the connection between mind and body, the business offers specialized services to support individuals on their healing journey. Through a range of massage therapy techniques, including Swedish Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, and Medical Massage, Elements & Bodywork provides natural, expert-driven approaches to pain relief and emotional well-being.
“Our goal is to help individuals heal through various modalities, whether they are dealing with chronic or acute pain,” said business owner Esther Ruggles. “Swedish Massage, in particular, helps regulate the nervous system, leading to better decision-making, a calm mindset, and improved sleep.”
In addition to its in-office services, Elements & Bodywork is launching a Mental Health Mondays Walk, a community initiative taking place every Monday at 6:00 p.m. This walk is designed to promote healthy coping mechanisms, positive mental health, and a sense of community care.
While Elements & Bodywork initially planned to extend the Rare Earth Goods art co-op into an online marketplace for local products, the decision has been made to pause this aspect of the business. “I need to be realistic about what I can handle and focus on the medical massage aspect of the business,” said Ruggles. “However, if there is enough community interest and involvement, this initiative could still move forward in the future. Those interested in supporting this effort are encouraged to reach out.”
For more information about services, online browsing, and in-store pick-up, visit elementsandbodywork.com
Pictured left to right: Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic and Development Coordinator; Steven VandenAvond, Marquette County Ambassadors; Esther Ruggles, Owner; Katie Kern, West End Advisory Council; Lauren Rotundo, LSCP Small Business Support Specialist
Second Story Studio Celebrates Their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting
January 10, 2025
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted Second Story Studio with a ribbon cutting to celebrate its grand opening on January 10, 2025. Second Story Studio is an art gallery, gift shop, and artist workspace in Marquette, MI. The Studio offers various services, including printing, image editing, digitizing artwork, custom polaroid emulsion lifts, and artist headshots, and will soon have art supplies.
Second Story Studio owner Taryn Okesson is a passionate visual artist from the Upper Peninsula. She earned her BFA degree with a concentration in Electronic Imaging from Northern Michigan University in 2009. Okesson has been involved with many art groups and events, including the Marquette Artist Collective, the Lake Superior Art Association, and Art on the Rocks, and she has worked on many influential pieces throughout her career. She enjoys experimenting with different textures and materials and hopes to explore emotion in her work through color and subject choices. Okesson aims to further grow her creative practice through the Second Story Studio by embracing new experiences and seeking additional opportunities to connect with fellow artists, artistic communities, art fairs, collectors, and galleries.
The Second Story Studio is located in the second story of the Wattsson & Wattsson building at 118 B W. Washington Street in Marquette. The Studio is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. To learn more about their services including pricing, visit TarynOkesson.com/second-story-studio, visit Second Story Studio on Facebook, or follow them on Instagram at instagram.com/taryn_okesson_art.
Pictured left to right: Susan Estler, Marquette County Ambassador; Taryn Okesson, Second Story Studio Owner; Kurt Babcock, Second Story Studio Co-Owner; Mike Bradford, Marquette DDA; Tara Laase-McKinney, Marquette DDA; Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative
2015 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
2014 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
2013 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
