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Creative Vinyl - Pat, Pam, Joe Spivey

1870 House owner Zena Burns

Assistant City Manager Amanda Sleigh

Dowagiac's Town and Country Garden Club. (Submitted)

DOWAGIAC — The Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Membership Meeting Wednesday at the Dowagiac Elks Lodge bringing together local business leaders, community members, and Chamber supporters for an evening of reflection, recognition, and celebration.

The event highlighted the Chamber’s efforts in supporting the economic vitality of Dowagiac and surrounding areas, while also honoring those who have made significant contributions to the community. 

In 2025, the Chamber plans to expand its support for local businesses through a partnership with the Women’s Business Center. This collaboration will offer workshops aimed at helping business owners and entrepreneurs navigate key aspects of running a successful enterprise, including, for example, employment taxes, bookkeeping, and worker’s compensation. The initiative underscores the Chamber’s commitment to fostering a thriving small business community in Dowagiac and beyond. 

Highlighting community spirit, the Chamber launched “Decorate Dowagiac” in September, spearheaded by Melissa Gunn, owner of Deck the Halls, aiming to enhance the city’s festive atmosphere with additional holiday decorations. The fundraising campaign has already garnered over $5,000, and the highly anticipated tree lighting is scheduled for November 15. 

Keynote speaker Jeff Neumann of Farm Bureau Insurance started the evening with an inspiring address on leadership and community service, leaving attendees with thoughtful insights on how personal and professional growth can positively impact the larger community. 

One of the evening’s highlights was the recognition of outstanding community members during the annual awards ceremony. The Shining Star Award was presented to Zena Burns, owner of 1870 House, for her exceptional contributions to local events and her unwavering support for the community. Burns has played a key role in organizing the Music in the Park series, Dowagiac Pride Festival, and the Dowagiac Home & Garden Tour, among other initiatives. 

The Town and Country Garden Club was honored with the Community Service Award for its dedication to beautifying Dowagiac through seasonal floral displays that enhance the city’s streetscapes. Their volunteer efforts have made a lasting impact on the look and feel of the community.

Amanda Sleigh, Dowagiac Assistant City Manager, was recognized with the Young Professional of the Year Award. Since joining the city in 2022, Sleigh has led a range of infrastructure and neighborhood improvement projects, securing over $2 million in grants for initiatives such as road improvements, housing renovations, and lead service abatement. Her work has significantly contributed to the ongoing revitalization of Dowagiac. 

The Business of the Year Award was presented to Creative Vinyl, owned by Pam and Pat Spivey. The couple’s signage and branding services have played a vital role in helping local businesses build their identities and succeed. From billboards to business signs, Creative Vinyl has had a far-reaching impact on Dowagiac’s business community. 

Kris Soenen, Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce President, and owner of Who Knew Consignment, stated, “The Chamber continues to provide valuable marketing and networking opportunities for its members. Events like Business After Hours and Lunch with Leaders promote connection, collaboration, and shared growth among local businesses. The Chamber also remains committed to its tradition of ribbon-tying ceremonies for new businesses, symbolizing the strong partnership between the Chamber, the city, and the local business community.” 

As the Chamber looks ahead to 2025, it remains dedicated to driving commerce, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the overall quality of life in Dowagiac.

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