Portland Downtown Board of Directors

Cory Grimminck Chairperson Charlsie Abel Vice Chair James Barnes Treasurer Margery Briggs Secretary

Contact Us: 517-647-5027 tinacw@portland-michigan.org

Tom Antaya Tutt Gorman Leo Madarang Dr Jason Williamson

How About You?

Do you have ideas for the Portland Downtown area? Do you want to be a part of something bigger? Do you have a little time and talent to lend?

Literally nothing happens without people who care and contribute—We are always open to friendly people who love sharing Portland, like the awesome volunteers we currently have. You’d be joining a great group!

You could choose to volunteer here and there for specific projects and events—or look for something on a more regular, monthly basis by join-ing one of our teams. We can build your volunteer experience around your interests and available time.

Online application at: miportland.org

or just contact us :)

Your Downtown Connection miportland.org AUGUST 2020

It is with gratitude, fondness and respect that we have to say goodbye to Dana Hengesbach, as she wraps up her 2-year AmeriCorps VISTA term with Portland Downtown.

AmeriCorps VISTA members are part of a national service program, serving in community-based organizations. Members take on assignments such as assisting in developing new programs, recruiting & training new volunteers, and public relations. “I came in knowing very little about working in an office setting, but I knew I was going to leave with a whole new wealth of knowledge and appreciation,” stated Dana.

Through her service, Dana helped in research that was an integral part of laying a foundation for supporting and attracting businesses and development through the district. She created and leads the Portland Block Captain program that aids in communicating and connecting with stakeholders.

There have been two major unexpected and unprecedented events during her service. The Ice Jam in spring of 2019, and the ongoing COVID pandemic of this year. “Dana remained flexible, supportive and helped in every way asked as well as identifying needs and providing direct assistance. We would not have been able to connect with and support those impacted at the high level and on as wide a scale without her contributions,” said Tina Conner-Wellman. Dana said, “These two events proved to be the longest yet somehow, the quickest days of my service time. I worked closely with Tina on establishing communication groups, available resources, and regular check-ins with everyone effected.”

While her time here has been unpredictable, Dana is wrapping up with key contributions. Summer Park Parties, with Intergenerational activities started in June and will wrap up August 11. Dana has also been working to determine the feasibility of a incubator space for business proof of concept in Portland. She is laying the groundwork to help the project grow beyond her service term.

“This is not a complete goodbye, though I will be leaving my title as AmeriCorps VISTA with Portland Downtown, I will not be walking away from my volunteer title. I will continue with the Business and Design Team, and volunteer at community events. Acting on a long-time aspira-tion, I’ve recently joined the Portland Fire Authority. Through the VISTA experience, I’ve learned that I have the drive and passion to serve my community in a larger capacity.” said Dana

Tina Conner-Wellman stated, “Dana’s contributions have been important in enabling us to further meet the needs of our community. Her commitment and dedication are commendable and have made a true difference in Portland.”

Story by Kurt Fedewa Your Downtown Connection AUGUST 2020

Contact Us: 517-647-5027 miportland.org Tinacw@portland-michigan.org

Featured Business… Off and Running

Painting

Submitted By: Kurt Fedewa

Pictured (l to R): Bryony Fiori, Jodi Slater, Ahlona Jordan

Jodi Slater is the proud owner of Off and Running Painting.

Jodi’s business specializes in exteriors and interiors. She learned her craft by working under another painter in Ionia County and she em-ploys two other workers. They are currently working on a project for the City of Portland.

“We’re hand-painting fixtures along the city boardwalk as well as the railings of Veteran’s Memorial Bridge,” she said. “We are scraping the rust off of the metal and we’re removing other imperfections caused by time. We’re also cleaning the railing, then applying epoxy and a topcoat,” she explained.

Jodi’s business is well-organized.

“Typically, people contact me for an estimate. I prefer to see what they want done first-hand and then to discuss it with them,” she said.

Jodi gets good results and finds satisfaction in a job well done.

“I like the looks on people’s faces when they see one of our complet-ed projects,” she said. “It’s a good feeling,” she added.

Jodi works in several local communities.

“Most of my work is in Lansing, but I love working in Portland,” she said. “I like Portland a lot. It’s quiet here. The people are nice, and I like the fact that I can find whatever I need, locally,” she said.

Jodi summarizes her work ethic simply.

I work hard. I make sure that the job is done right. I also work for the fun of it. There is satisfaction in painting,” she said.

As for the future, Jodi hopes to travel, to watch her kids grow, to earn a master degree from MSU, and to spend time with her part-ner, Brian.

Jodi can be reached at the contact information below. oandrpaint@gmail.com Telephone: 517-648-0432