LSCP ribbon cuttings are funded by Northern Initiatives
2026 Celebrations
SPEX Launches in Marquette with Focus on Whole-Body Wellness and Eye Care
May 28, 2026
MARQUETTE, MI — SPEX celebrated its grand opening with a public open house on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 407 South Lakeshore Blvd, Suite B in Marquette, Michigan. The Lake Superior Community Partnership assisted with the celebration by hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The open house featured Woody’s Eyewear Collection with a spotlight on sunglasses, complimentary gelato from Provisions MQT, light refreshments, raffle prizes, and additional entertainment throughout the event.
Founded in 2026 by Dr. Anna Krause, SPEX was built on a mission to provide compassionate, person-centered care that emphasizes prevention, meaningful patient relationships, and whole-body wellness. Dr. Krause brings more than a decade of experience to the Marquette community and is focused on helping patients understand the connection between eye health and overall wellness.
A Yooper born and raised in Iron River, Dr. Anna Krause previously practiced in Marquette from 2015 to 2019 at Downtown EyeCare, where many patients knew her as Dr. Anna Baumgartner. After moving downstate in 2019, Dr. Krause and her husband continued to feel a strong pull to return to the Upper Peninsula. In 2025, they decided it was finally time to come home, giving Dr. Krause the opportunity to pursue her dream of opening her own practice.
“I’m so excited to be back in Marquette, spreading my roots and building the community of phenomenal eye care providers in the U.P.,” said Dr. Anna Krause. “SPEX brings a fresh perspective on eye care to Marquette. We’re focused on how your eyes impact and are impacted by your whole-body wellness. See well and be well with SPEX.”
SPEX offers comprehensive eye care services and access to high-quality, independently owned eyewear brands. Dr. Krause believes eyewear should not only support vision and health, but also serve as a form of self-expression. The practice carefully curates handcrafted frames from independent companies that align with SPEX’s mission and values.
In addition to vision care, SPEX emphasizes the important role the eyes play in identifying broader health concerns. Because the eyes provide a direct view of blood vessels, eye exams can offer insight into overall metabolic and systemic health, helping patients take a proactive approach to wellness.
For more information about SPEX, visit www.spexmqt.com, call (906) 451-3611, or email info@spexmqt.com. SPEX can also be found on Facebook and Instagram at ‘SPEXMQT’.
LSCP ribbon cuttings are funded by Northern Initiatives.
Pictured left to right: Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic Development Coordinator; Lindsey Bean, LSCP Outreach and Development Specialist; Don Baumgartner; Jaci Baumgartner; Laura Meister, SPEX; Dr. Anna Krause, SPEX Owner; Nick Krause; Michelle Sellers, Marquette County Ambassador; Andrea Bloch; Greg Zyburt, Marquette County Ambassador; Valerie Kero; Natalie Chmiko, LSCP CEO
BabyCakes Muffin Company Announces New Ownership Under Jacob Hutchinson
May 22, 2026
Marquette, MI – BabyCakes Muffin Company, a cherished fixture in the Marquette community, is excited to announce new ownership under local entrepreneur Jacob Hutchinson. The transition marks a new chapter for the business while maintaining the same quality, offerings, and welcoming atmosphere customers know and love.
BabyCakes celebrated its new ownership with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 223 W. Washington Street in Marquette, Michigan. The Lake Superior Community Partnership hosted the ribbon-cutting in support of the celebration.
Known for its fresh-baked muffins, locally enjoyed coffee, and satisfying breakfast and lunch options, BabyCakes will continue operating just as it has, with no immediate changes to its menu or daily operations. Customers can still expect their favorite baked goods, morning coffee, and quick, delicious meals served with the same friendly service.
“I’m honored to take over such a well-loved local business,” said Hutchinson. “BabyCakes has built something special in this community. My goal is to keep everything that makes it great, from the muffins and coffee to the breakfast and lunch offerings, while looking for thoughtful ways to grow in the future.”
BabyCakes remains committed to being a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike, whether stopping in for a morning coffee, grabbing breakfast on the go, or enjoying a casual lunch.
The business will continue its regular hours and welcomes the community to stop in, meet the new owner, and enjoy everything they have come to expect from BabyCakes.
Hutchinson notes: “Be on the lookout for new weekly specials and discounts for members of the uniformed services!”
For more information, contact Jake Hutchinson at (262) 955-5020 or email Jacob.A.Hutchinson3.mil@army.mil.
About BabyCakes Muffin Company
BabyCakes Muffin Company is a locally loved bakery and café in Marquette, Michigan, known for its freshly baked muffins, quality coffee, and a variety of breakfast and lunch options, all served in a warm and inviting environment.
LSCP ribbon cuttings are funded by Northern Initiatives.
Pictured left to right: Taylor Klipp, Northwestern Mutual; Alex Kofsky, Accelerate UP; Wayne Jacques; Spencer Larson, Frist Bank Upper Michigan; Mary Myers, LSCP Director of Economic Development Services; Sarah Gimpl, Accelerate UP; Liam Goetz Accelerate UP; Sophie Krysmalski, BabyCakes; Dennis Cowan, BabyCakes; Emily Last, BabyCakes; Greg Zyburt, Marquette County Ambassador; Morgan Maki BabyCakes; Chanin Edwards, BabyCakes; Kendal Persails, BabyCakes; Linda Hutchinson; Charlie Hutchinson Sr.; SSG. Jacob A. Hutchinson, BabyCakes Owner; Anna Oles, BabyCakes; Sam Jacques; Charlie Hutchinson; Meagen Morrison, Marquette County Ambassador; Megan O’Connor; Mike Bradford, Marquette DDA Business Outreach & Promotions Director; Lindsey Bean, LSCP Outreach and Development Specialist
Silent Harbor Tactical Announces Grand Opening & Ribbon-Cutting in Marquette
May 15, 2026
MARQUETTE, MI – Silent Harbor Tactical, Marquette’s newest destination for premium tactical gear and professional gunsmithing services, celebrated its official grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) and Accelerate UP on May 15, 2026, at 2294 US-41 in Marquette, Michigan.
Founded in 2025 by Veteran and certified security specialist Mitchell Turner, Silent Harbor Tactical was created to fill a gap in the Upper Peninsula market, providing serious shooters, hunters, and outdoorsmen with expert guidance and high-quality equipment backed by real-world experience.
Silent Harbor Tactical offers standard firearm sales, as well as custom-built firearms engineered to customer specifications. The business also provides professional gunsmithing services, including scope leveling, optic mounting, muzzle device installation, trigger work, and more. In addition, Silent Harbor Tactical carries tactical gear and high-end accessories from trusted brands, as well as ammunition, magazines, and soft goods such as plate carriers and apparel.
“This isn’t a big-box counter staffed by someone reading off a spec sheet,” said founder Mitchell Turner. “When customers walk through our doors, they’re working with someone who has used this gear professionally and understands what performs when it matters most.”
The new storefront will allow customers to experience hands-on shopping, expert consultation from a certified defensive designated marksman, and access to custom firearm builds designed from the ground up.
To celebrate the grand opening, Silent Harbor Tactical is offering exclusive in-store promotions for a limited time. Customers can also shop online at shop.silentharbortactical.com, with orders shipping directly from warehouse partners.
For updates on the business and grand opening specials, follow Silent Harbor Tactical on Instagram at @silentharbor_tacitical. For additional information, contact Mitchell Turner at Mitchell@silentharbortactical.com or call (906) 458-9104.
LSCP ribbon cuttings are funded by Northern Initiatives.
Pictured left to right: Michael Morgan, Marquette Township Business Association; Alex Kofsky, Accelerate UP; Matthew Throop, Silent Harbor Tactical Co-Owner; Mitchell Turner, Silent Harbor Tactical Owner; Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Taylor Klipp, Northwestern Mutual; Natalie Chmiko, LSCP CEO
New Playground Equipment at Giant’s Foot Park Celebrated with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
May 12, 2026
Marquette, MI — The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) assisted the City of Marquette, Rotary District 6220, and the Rotary Club of Marquette in celebrating the completion of new playground equipment at Giant’s Foot Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on May 12, 2026.
The service project included replacing two swing sets and enhancing one of Marquette’s popular community parks with updated, safe, and accessible play equipment for local children and families. Community members, local officials, and project partners gathered to recognize the successful completion of the effort and the collaboration that made it possible.
Funding for the project was made possible in part by approximately $7,000 raised by Rotary at its annual golf outing, along with contributions from the City of Marquette, Rotary District 6220, and the Rotary Club of Marquette.
Since 1916, the Rotary Club of Marquette has been rooted in service, Lake Superior strong, and community driven. The improvements to Giant’s Foot Park reflect a shared commitment to investing in community spaces that promote recreation, accessibility, and quality of life for residents of all ages.
For more information, contact Rotary Club of Marquette President Charles Blacksmith at rotarycdb@gmail.com.
LSCP ribbon-cuttings are sponsored by Northern Initiatives.
Pictured left to right: Charles Blaksmith, Rotary Club of Marquette President; Lindsey Bean, LSCP Outreach and Development Specialist; Tyler Mccabe, Rotary; Davina Mccabe; Sally Davis, City of Marquette Commissioner, Rotary; Jon Swenson, City of Marquette Director of Community Services, Rotary; Tiina Morin, City of Marquette MAAC, Rotary; Karen Kovacs, Marquette City Manager; Briella Kovacs; Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic Development Coordinator
Partridge Creek Farm Celebrates New School Greenhouse with a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
April 22, 2026
Ishpeming, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP), alongside Partridge Creek Farm (PCF) and the Ishpeming Public School District (IPSD), celebrated the ribbon-cutting of a new school greenhouse on April 22, 2026, at the PCF Middle School Garden, located at 402 Cleveland Avenue in Ishpeming.
This new greenhouse marks a major investment in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and expands hands-on learning opportunities in agriculture for students across Marquette County.
Funded through a Section 61 grant from the State of Michigan, administered by Eaton RESA and the Michigan Department of Education, the greenhouse was purchased by IPSD and will serve as a year-round learning environment. Students enrolled in the Applied Horticulture CTE course, Flipping the Food System, will utilize the space alongside PCF programming to grow fresh produce for the Ishpeming Middle/High School cafeteria.
Following the ceremony, attendees participated in an inaugural planting activity and mini lecture led by horticulture teacher and PCF Education Coordinator Keats Dormont and his students, offering a firsthand look at the greenhouse’s educational impact.
Construction on the greenhouse began in August 2025 and was completed in April 2026 through a collaborative effort between PCF, the Ishpeming Lions Club, IPSD students, and local volunteers. The project builds on more than 10 years of partnership between PCF and IPSD to deliver Farm-to-School programming.
In addition to supporting the CTE program, the greenhouse and adjacent middle school garden will serve multiple youth initiatives, including Farm-to-School programming for fifth and sixth-grade students, a Healthy Cooking Program, an after-school Garden Club for grades 5 through 8, and a Farm-to-School Summer Camp for students entering grades 6 through 9.
LSCP ribbon cuttings are funded by Northern Initiatives.
Pictured left to right front: Diana Sundberg, West End Outreach and Services Specialist, LSCP; Brook Quinn, Senior Business Development Representative, LSCP; Carrie Meyer, Superintendent, Ishpeming Public Schools; Krystan Beaumont, Ishpeming City DDA Board; Dr. Kelly Milano, Ishpeming City DDA Board; Keats Dormont, Education Coordinator, Partridge Creek Farm; Eben Wagner, Ishpeming High School CTE Student; Lee Vance, Ishpeming High School CTE Student; Jeremy Hosking, Director, Northern Michigan Office, Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer; Tia Alquaree, West End Advisory Council, LSCP. Left to right, back row: Darren Moll, Business Insurance Specialist, Tricor; Brett Argall, Ishpeming City Council; Randy Scholz, Ishpeming City Manager; Dan Perkins, Director/ Founder, Partridge Creek Farm; Lydia Seelen, Ishpeming High School CTE Student; Shana Donner, Operations and Finance Executive Director, Partridge Creek Farm; Mary Andronis, Programs and Partnerships Executive Director, Partridge Creek Farm; Jim Perkins, Community Member.
Milano Chiropractic Celebrates Grand Opening with a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
March 11, 2026
Ishpeming, MI – Milano Chiropractic, located in Ishpeming, at 1015 Country Lane, Ste 2, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 11, 2026, along with the Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) West End Economic Hub.
Community members, local officials, and supporters gathered to welcome the new practice and celebrate its addition to the West End business community. The event celebrated an important milestone that reflected the continued growth of locally owned businesses in Ishpeming.
Serving the Ishpeming community and surrounding areas, Milano Chiropractic is committed to the well-being of its patients. Dr. Kelly Milano recognizes that dealing with discomfort or pain can be challenging and strives to provide individualized care designed to help patients feel their best. Whether addressing back pain, neck tension, or other concerns, Milano Chiropractic takes a dedicated approach tailored to each patient’s needs.
Rooted in community and focused on you, Milano Chiropractic looks forward to becoming a trusted local resource for chiropractic care and wellness. Appointments can be conveniently booked online at milanochiropractic.com.
The Lake Superior Community Partnership’s West End Economic Hub hosts ribbon-cutting events to celebrate new and expanding businesses while supporting continued economic growth throughout the West End communities.
Pictured left to right: (Front Row) Sarah Garver; Mikayla Milano; Dr. Kelly Milano, Owner; Katelyn Milano; Brooke Quinn, Senior Business Development Representative, LSCP; Debbie Elliott; Krystan Beaumont, Ishpeming DDA; JoAnn Manty; Diana Sundberg, West End Outreach and Services Specialist, LSCP. (Back Row) Micah Milano; Jacob Milano; Tim Milano; Jesse Bell, Marquette County Ambassador; Randy Scholz, Ishpeming City Manager; David Aro, Ishpeming DDA Chair; Lindsay Bean, Outreach and Development Specialist, LSCP.
Finder’s Keep Depot Celebrates 2 Years with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
February 26, 2026
Ishpeming, MI – Finder’s Keep Depot, located in Ishpeming at 1045 Country Lane, Ste 1, along with the Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP), marked its second anniversary with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony held on February 25, 2026. The event brought together community members, local supporters, and business advocates to recognize the milestone and the shop’s continued growth in Ishpeming.
The celebration featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, refreshments, and time for guests to browse the store’s unique selection of resale treasures and special finds.
Since opening its doors, Finder’s Keep Depot has become a go-to destination for shoppers seeking curated resale items, vintage pieces, and one-of-a-kind discoveries. The store’s welcoming atmosphere and commitment to sustainability have helped build a loyal customer base and strong community presence.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received over the past two years,” said owner Erin Bertucci. “This celebration was really about thanking the community for showing up, shopping local, and helping us grow.”
Finder’s Keep Depot looks forward to continuing to serve the Ishpeming community and building on the momentum of its first two successful years.
Finders Keep Depot is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information, visit finderskeepdepot.com or follow them on Facebook.
Pictured left to right: Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Krystan Beaumont, Ishpeming Downtown Development Authority; Tracy Magnuson, Ishpeming Downtown Development Authority; Katie Kern, West End Advisory Council; Alyssa Bjork, Katie Wiljanen, Tessa Suardini, Erin Bertucci, Finder’s Keep Depot Owner; Steven Bertucci Jr.; Brian Buchanen, Ishpeming Downtown Development Authority; Tia Alquaree, West End Advisory Council; Diana Sundberg, LSCP West End Outreach and Services Specialist & Ishpeming DDA Liaison; Dr. Kelly Milano, Ishpeming Downtown Development Authority.
Presque Deli Celebrates Its Grand Opening with a Ribbon-Cutting
February 23, 2026
Marquette, MI – Presque Deli celebrated its official opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 23, 2026, at 1635 Presque Isle Avenue in Marquette. The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) assisted owners Mario Gohl, Heath Lefke, and Scott Maynard in commemorating the occasion and welcoming the business to the community.
Presque Deli offers a creative yet approachable dining experience focused on cult-classic deli favorites. The menu features a diverse selection of hot and cold sandwiches, fresh salads and soups, a specialty lineup of grilled cheese sandwiches, and a dedicated street dog menu. Customers can also take advantage of a convenient grab-and-go cooler stocked with quick-serve items and house-made desserts.
In addition to its core offerings, Presque Deli will feature a rotating menu of home-style cooking specials and a limited late-night menu.
Looking ahead, future plans include adding a pizza menu and a potential deli counter offering meats and cheeses for order.
Delivery will be available through DoorDash and UberEats. To learn more about Presque Deli, follow them on Facebook @presquedeli, or contact them at (906)362-4694.
Pictured left to right: Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Heath Lefke, Presque Deli Co-Owner; Mario Gohl, Presque Deli Co-Owner; Scott Maynard, Presque Deli Co-Owner; Representative Karl Bohnak, Michigan’s 109th House of Representatives
Everyday Wines Celebrate 15-year anniversary and Grand Opening its New Expansion, The Cheese Cave in Marquette, Michigan
February 4, 2026
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) recently assisted Everyday Wines Marquette in celebrating the official ribbon-cutting of its newly expanded Cheese Cave, located at 129 West Baraga Avenue in downtown Marquette, on February 4, 2026.
The ribbon-cutting marks a milestone for Everyday Wines Marquette as it celebrates 15 years on Baraga Avenue and the grand opening of The Everyday Wines Cheese Cave, a newly expanded space connected to the existing storefront. The Cheese Cave enhances the shopping experience with an even larger selection of domestic and imported cut-to-order cheeses, bean-to-bar craft chocolates, specialty groceries, and European knives and cheese tools.
New offerings include sliced-to-order cured meats such as prosciutto, mortadella, and salami; expanded bulk olive selections; international specialty items including Asian noodles and balsamic vinegar; and prepared cheese and charcuterie boards.
Everyday Wines Marquette and The Cheese Cave are open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m.
To learn more about Everyday Wines Marquette, visit everydaywinesmqt.com or call (906) 225-5470.
Pictured left to right: Brooke Quinn, LSCP Senior Business Development Representative; Michelle Sellers, Marquette County Ambassadors; Roxanne Daust, Marquette County Ambassadors; Marcie Krupski, Everyday Wines Marquette; Charlie Klecha, Everyday Wines Marquette; Daniel Rutz, Everyday Wines Marquette; Betsy Rutz; Sara Carlson, Everyday Wines Marquette; Tara Laase-McKinney, Executive Director, Marquette DDA; Mike Bradford, Business Outreach and Promotions Director, Marquette DDA
IncredibleBank Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting for Newly Renovated Branch in Marquette, Michigan
January 23, 2026
Marquette, MI – The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) recently assisted IncredibleBank to celebrate the official ribbon-cutting of its newly renovated Marquette branch located at 1140 West Washington Street on Wednesday January 21, 2026.
This significant renovation reflects IncredibleBank’s continued investment in the Marquette community and its commitment to providing a modern, supportive environment for residents and businesses. The updated branch features a refreshed design tailored to help customers navigate every financial stage, from starting a business or buying a home to managing daily financial needs.
“Our investment in this renovation is about more than updating a building; it’s about creating a space that empowers our customers and our team,” said Ashley Cody, VP of Regional Banking for IncredibleBank. “We want every person who walks through our doors to feel confident that they have a partner in achieving their financial goals.”
The project highlights IncredibleBank’s longstanding presence in the region and its focus on personalized service and community connection. As a leading organization for economic development, the LSCP is proud to support members who continue to reinvest in the growth and vitality of our community.
For more information about IncredibleBank and their services, visit incrediblebank.com or contact their Customer Experience Center at 888-842-0221.
Pictured left to right: Erica Huss, Small Business Support Hub Project Manager; Zosia Eppensteiner, Marquette County Ambassador; Michelle Sellers, IncredibleBank Business Banker; Mike Mattila, IncredibleBank Mortgage Lender; Sarah Napgezek, IncredibleBank EVP Chief Banking Officer; Brad Saatio, IncredibleBank Bank Market Manager; Christian Palomaki, IncredibleBank Business Banker; Dan Sherfinski, IncredibleBank Facilities Manager; Ashley Cody, IncredibleBank VP Regional Manager; Todd Nagel, IncredibleBank President & CEO; Rachel Sertich, IncredibleBank Credit Analyst; Deb Grimsby, IncredibleBank Relationship Banker; Jake Trucco, IncredibleBank National Lender; Dani Hellenbrand, IncredibleBank Director of Marketing; Brian Colmean, IncredibleBank Wealth Advisor; Peter Mouw, IncredibleBank EVP Chief Revenue Officer; Molly Hurley, Incrediblebank Customer Experience Specialist; Randy Larson, Marquette County Ambassador; Steve VandenAvond, Marquette County Ambassador
Athena Global Learning Celebrates Its Grand Opening with a Ribbon-Cutting
January 13, 2026
Marquette, MI — Athena Global Learning (AGL) celebrated its official launch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 13, 2026, hosted in partnership with the Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP).
Athena Global Learning is an education and workforce development company founded by Dr. Athena Stanley, a Marquette native and former Assistant Professor at Northern Michigan University (NMU). AGL provides AI literacy and ethics training, high-quality tutoring for learners in grades two through adult, Business English and professional communication coaching, and instructional design services for organizations.
Rooted in the belief that education should be both human-centered and future-ready, AGL helps students, professionals, and institutions build confidence, strengthen essential skills, and adapt to a rapidly evolving world. The company serves local families, individuals, and businesses across the Upper Peninsula, as well as global learners online.
“Athena Global Learning was created to make high-quality education accessible, personal, and empowering,” said Dr. Stanley. “As AI reshapes the way we learn and work, I’m honored to help students, families, and professionals in my hometown build the skills, confidence, and ethical understanding they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”
To learn more about AGL’s programs, workshops, and upcoming educational opportunities, visit athenagloballearning.com, email contact@athenagloballearning.com, or follow Athena Global Learning on social media.
Pictured left to right: Rachel Raak, LSCP Community Economic Development Coordinator; Melissa Holmquist, Marquette County Ambassador; Walker Derby, NMU; Kendal Mentink, RN; Jennifer Stanley; Dr. Athena Stanley, Athena Global Learning Founder; Chip Truscon; Derek Bush; Marquette County Ambassador; Dr. Rebecca Ulland, NMU; Tiina Morin, Marquette Arts & Culture
2015 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
2014 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
2013 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
