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Dowagiac — A new committee, Decorate Dowagiac, announced Thursday its mission of building upon and enhancing the City of Dowagiac’s traditional holiday streetscape decorations.   

“Our goal is to enhance the basics that are already in stock, and add some new features,” stated Melissa Gunn, owner of Deck the Halls and the committee’s Chairwoman. “Because commercial décor is expensive, this is going to be a group effort in fundraising in order to build a variety of decorations over a few years.”

Gunn stated that the first goal is to embellish the City Christmas Tree that is set up in Beckwith Park annually. The committee has a plan for the décor and is kicking off its fundraising drive today. Because the non-profit Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce will be facilitating the collection of donations for Decorate Dowagiac, all contributions are tax deductible and all funds received will be used for the purchase of holiday décor and supplies for streetscapes.

Gunn kick started the fundraising campaign with a $500 donation on behalf of her business, Deck the Halls, which features holiday décor and gift items year round. 

“Though no donation is too small, we have one special package for an individual or a business,” added Gunn. “The first to commit and donate $2500 will be our Star Sponsor, covering the expense of the tree topper, and will have their name featured for three years at the base of the tree while it stands during the holidays.”

Donations can be made online at www.dowagiacchamber.com. Look for the Decorate Dowagiac button at the bottom of the website’s landing page, or on the Chamber’s Facebook Page.  Checks should be made payable to Decorate Dowagiac, and mailed to the Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce, 200 Depot Drive, Dowagiac, MI 49047.