Manchester Main Street

Manchester Main Street (MMS) is hosting this summer’s first-ever Eel River Arts Festival on June 14-15th in the heart of downtown North Manchester. To kick off the festivities, a Friday evening, 6-10pm, “Celebration of the Arts” Party will be held in the beautiful Eel River Gardens, overlooking the Eel River. Enjoy delicious specialty treats and exclusive live performances from North Manchester’s innovative cooks and talented artists. Indulge your inner muse and win silent auction treasures or create your own masterpiece. Relax by the river with friends on a warm evening under the twinkling lights and stars.

$30 tickets for the June 14th Celebration Party are available, starting May 1st, at the MMS office in the Chamber building (109 N. Market Street) or on MMS’ website – CLICK HERE. Attendance is limited to 200 guests – RSVP by May 15th to guarantee your space. The reservation deadline is May 31st.

On Saturday, June 15th, stroll downtown for a 10am-3pm Art Fair in the Eel River Gardens, against the backdrop of North Manchester’s new historic downtown streetscape. The Art Fair will highlight area artists’ work and provide creative enrichment activities for all ages. Saturday’s Art Fair is free to the public. Artists interested in reserving booth space can download an application from MMS’ website – CLICK HERE. All applications must be received by May 20th.

For additional Eel River Arts Festival event information, visit Manchester Main Street’s website or Facebook page, or contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

Spring has finally sprung and Manchester Main Street (MMS) is cultivating new projects to help North Manchester flourish. Once the downtown sidewalk construction is complete, colorful hanging flower baskets will be added to the new lightposts along Main and Walnut Streets, to further beautify our town. MMS’ America in Bloom committee collaborated with the Town on the design, funding and long-term maintenance plan. To showcase and promote our region’s many talented artists, MMS is hosting a summer Eel River Arts Festival on June 14-15th. Friday’s "Celebration of the Arts" Party will feature local food, art and entertainment. Saturday’s Art Fair will highlight area artists’ work and provide creative enrichment activities for all ages. Tickets for Friday’s Dinner and more Arts Festival details will be available on MMS’ website and Facebook page in early May.

And, by late summer, Phase I installation of North Manchester’s Community Trail Network (CTN) will be finalized. This multi-purpose recreational route will connect Timbercrest, Peabody, Manchester University, town parks, area schools, the Covered Bridge and downtown, and will snake along the Eel River and through the business and residential districts, providing a safe and scenic non-vehicular transportation system for North Manchester. MMS’ Manchester PATH Group formed an alliance with North Manchester Parks and Recreation to bring the 1999 CTN Master Plan to fruition. PATH is covering Phase I construction costs out of the MMS Special Project Fund. This town improvement restricted fund was created by revenue generated from the downtown engraved paver sales.

“Manchester Main Street believes collaboration builds better communities and fostering local assets instills pride and ownership,” said Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director. “Town improvements and beautification benefit citizens and visitors alike, and a beautiful community exhibits pride, which attracts new residents, tourism and economic development.” To become a member, CLICK HERE to download a 2013 Membership Form. For additional information and ways you can become involved, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

A project nearly 20 years in the making, Town Council approved the launch of the North Manchester Community Trail Network (CTN) at their February 20, 2013, Special Meeting. The concept of a town trails system was introduced in the 1980’s. The initial purpose was to provide better community access to the Eel River corridor. With the financial match support of the Chamber of Commerce, Indiana Lawrence Bank, Manchester University, Optimists, Rotary Club and Tri Kappa Sorority, North Manchester Parks and Recreation (NMPR) secured a 1998 State planning grant. NMPR commissioned Rundell Ernstberger Associates to work with a 21-member CTN Committee of local citizen to create the 1999 CTN Master Plan. CTN’s scope was expanded to include other community assets with the intent to “connect all of North Manchester’s natural, cultural and historic resources with the downtown and residential neighborhoods.” In the absence of additional grant funding, the $4.5 million Phase I construction price proved too cost-prohibitive at the time. A 2005 NMPR cost projection estimate came in at over $6 million.

In NMPR community surveys since 1999, “Bicycle / Pedestrian Trails” has consistently ranked #1 among the list of requested “additional recreational facilities” for North Manchester. In 2011, Manchester PATH Group, a Manchester Main Street (MMS) committee, was created in response to this need. PATH formed an alliance with NMPR to develop and execute a strategically sound 5-phased CTN construction plan and affordable funding strategy. A comprehensive CTN proposal was then presented to Town Council on January 9, 2013. PATH/NMPR requested permission to launch the CTN with a spring 2013 installation of the signage and sharrows portion of the plan. “This first step will provide the necessary skeleton upon which to build future phases,” explained Ryan Hedstrom, PATH Chair and MMS Board member.

PATH will cover the proposed CTN artwork, signage, post, sharrow stencil, paint, hardware and utility locate costs, estimated at $8000, out of the MMS Special Project Fund. This town improvement restricted fund was created by revenue generated from the downtown engraved paver sales. Project installation will be a combination of donated Street Department and volunteer labor. “The 2013 CTN launch could not have been made possible without the tireless efforts, dedication and collaboration of countless individuals spanning over decades,” said Manchester Main Street Executive Director, Renata Robinson. “Rotary Club’s 2012 ‘Robin’s Way’ completion was a crucial catalyst for the CTN’s realization. Town Council’s February CTN approval shows forward thinking vision for the future revitalization of North Manchester.”

Click here to view the FINAL approved CTN proposal. Also visit the MMS and PATH facebook pages for regular updates on upcoming events, projects and accomplishments. For more information, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

Manchester Main Street (MMS) held its Annual Meeting on February 18th at the Main View. In an open forum format, the Board, committees and members discussed the organization’s 2012 accomplishments and 2013 goals. “MMS reorganized a little over a year ago with the appointment of an Executive Director and new Board, so 2012 represents the first full year completed by this new entity,” said Debbie Chinworth, MMS Board President. MMS’ saw significant growth in its membership base: from 28 members in 2011 to 93 members in 2012. And, MMS now has five active committees – America in Bloom, Economic Restructuring, Historic Preservation & Design, Manchester PATH Group, Promotion & Art – supported by over 40 volunteers.

During the Annual Meeting, Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director, provided attendees with a 2012 Annual Report, which outlines each committee’s completed projects for the year. “Looking over this long list, I feel like we had a very productive first year and accomplished our town improvement goals,” said Robinson. “I’m very excited about starting this new year with new projects and fresh board members.” The meeting concluded with a discussion about MMS’ 2013 Scope of Work. “This is a very useful overview of what the organization is about in any given year. Many of these projects will carry over into other years, but for the most part, the purpose of this document is to strategically develop a plan for each year, with new projects and new town improvements.”

Click here to view MMS’ 2012 Annual Report and 2013 Scope of Work. To become a member, visit our website to download a 2013 Membership Form. For additional information and ways you can become involved, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

Manchester Main Street’s (MMS) engraved paver order deadline is fast approaching – tax deductible “Early Bird” pricing ends March 1st. This is your chance to become a permanent feature of the new downtown sidewalks. If you have been wanting to purchase a personalized engraved paver – to honor family members, memorialize departed loved ones, celebrate local businesses or immortalize inspirational quotations – don’t delay. All orders processed after March 1st will miss the spring construction deadline and will be subject to an additional $50 installation fee. Be sure to get your order in today.

“Early Bird” engraved paver prices range from $100 to $250 and are available in two sizes – 6” square and 6” x 9”. All sales revenue will be deposited in a Community Foundation of Wabash County restricted account and used to fund 2013 and future MMS town improvement projects. Order forms are available at the MMS office in the Chamber building (109 N. Market Street) or can be downloaded from the MMS website. For more information, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

Since 1989, Manchester Main Street (MMS) has been committed to revitalizing and enhancing the rich cultural, natural and architectural resources that make North Manchester a unique and wonderful place to live. Thanks to the active participation and financial generosity of this great community, MMS accomplished quite a bit over the past year.

MMS gained permission from downtown building owners to enhance the appearance of eleven vacant buildings in North Manchester’s core. During the April 14th “Main Street Clean-Up Day,” windows were cleaned, debris was cleared and local artwork was hung in the empty storefronts. A new exhibit by Manchester Community Schools’ students was installed for the winter months. In partnership with the Town’s downtown sidewalk renovation project, MMS offers personalized engraved pavers. All sales revenue is restricted to town improvement projects. MMS also collaborated with Wabash Marketplace to create a Tourist Rack Card promoting shopping, dining and entertainment in Wabash County.

MMS formed an alliance with North Manchester Parks and Recreation to develop and execute a 5-phased Community Trail Network construction plan and funding strategy. The project is scheduled to launch in spring 2013. The newly installed “Riverfront” Park is a key asset. Its site-specific sculpture, landscaping and educational signage pays tribute to the Eel River and serves as a downtown gateway landmark. This holiday season, MMS encouraged Main Street corridor businesses to “Light Up The Town” by outlining their windows in white lights. And, to celebrate all these 2012 achievements, MMS hosted a Holiday Gala. This sold out event highlighted North Manchester’s numerous attributes – historic buildings, great restaurants, diverse retail and multi-talented residents.

“Manchester Main Street represents a diverse range of age groups, businesses, and economic and community interests in North Manchester. It is by nature a community-driven process empowering local citizens to enact positive change,” said Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director. As project planning begins for 2013, MMS welcomes new committee members and the public is invited to attend meetings to voice town improvement suggestions. There are five active committees: America in Bloom, Economic Restructuring, Historic Preservation & Design, Manchester PATH Group and Promotion & Art.

“If you like what Manchester Main Street is doing, we also urge you to visit our website and download a 2013 Membership form,” said Robinson. MMS’ office is in the Chamber building (109 N. Market Street), and Robinson encourages business owners and community members to stop in, gather more information and provide feedback. You may contact Renata Robinson directly at 303-956-6097 or manchestermainstreet@gmail.com.

Park view looking east toward the Eel River.

Installation is now complete for North Manchester’s new “Riverfront” Park, located at the intersection of Main and Wayne Streets. Manchester Main Street (MMS) requested Town Council permission in October 2011 to develop a plan for use of the public riverfront land where the old Water Plant once stood. MMS’ America in Bloom (AIB) committee held a community meeting in November 2011 to generate park design ideas and garner feedback. Over the winter months, AIB collaborated with local artists to create sculpture options, and Metzger Landscaping & Design, LLC, designed a complementary landscaping layout. Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director, then presented a comprehensive “Riverfront” Park proposal to Town Council in March 2012. MMS secured grants from the Community Foundation of Wabash County and Indiana Office of Tourism Development in April to cover expenses, and received final Town Council project approvals in May.

“A tremendous amount of creativity and energy went into the ‘Riverfront’ Park project and we are so pleased with the results,” said Robinson. The park’s site-specific sculpture, landscaping and educational signage pays tribute to the Eel River and serves as a downtown gateway landmark. “It is also a showcase for what can be accomplished utilizing local talent and resources,” Robinson continued. The project team included Claypool residents Leesa Metzger (landscaping) and Eliot Irwin (sculpture), South Whitley’s Kim Slater (concrete), and North Manchester businesses Riverbridge Electric and Snep Sign Company. Community member Allan White provided the historical signage text, and Manchester University and Manchester Main Street supplied additional project funding. “I am excited for the spring to come and we can get the ‘full effect’ with the plants and flowers,” said Metzger. An official park opening ceremony will be held in spring 2013. “It has been a pleasure to move through the process of seeing the sculptures and the park take shape,” said Irwin. “I hope that this is just a small part of the many beautification projects to come for the town in the hopes of instilling identity and pride for its public spaces.” For more information, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

   

Park view looking west toward downtown North Manchester.

Eliot Irwin's "River Walking" sculpture detail.

The delayed completion of North Manchester’s downtown sidewalk project to May 2013 opens up a great opportunity to purchase personalized engraved pavers. Manchester Main Street (MMS) has been offering tax deductible “Early Bird” pricing since March 2012 and is now extending this promotion through March 1, 2013. Nearly 300 orders have been placed so far, and range from individual or family member names, dedications to departed loved ones, local businesses and inspirational quotations. “I bought an engraved paver to honor my parents, Cliff and Esther Carpenter, who have been linked to North Manchester since 1965,” said local resident Dale Carpenter. Engraved pavers on Walnut Street and the northside of Main Street were installed in November and the remaining ones will be placed on the southside of Main Street by late spring 2013.

Two engraved paver sizes are available – 6” square and 6” x 9”. The 6” square provides 4 lines of text with a maximum of 9 characters per line and may be purchased for $100. There are two options for the 6” x 9” – Option 1: 4 lines, 14 characters per line for $150, and Option 2: a 2½” high business logo, plus 2 lines, 14 characters per line for $250. This is a chance for businesses, families and individuals to have a permanent reminder of their participation in and contribution to North Manchester’s revitalization efforts. All sales revenue will be deposited in a Community Foundation of Wabash County restricted account and used to fund 2013 and future MMS town improvement projects. “Manchester Main Street has already earmarked a portion of the funds to launch North Manchester’s Community Trail Network, a town-wide multi-purpose recreational route, in the spring,” said MMS Executive Director, Renata Robinson.

Order forms are available at the MMS office in the Chamber building (109 N. Market Street) or can be downloaded from the MMS website . For more information, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

MMS Executive Director Renata Robinson with Vicki & Dale Carpenter at Hotel Sheller. ©2012 Michele Marie Photography

Manchester Main Street (MMS) extends a heartfelt thank you to all the tremendous community support that helped make Saturday’s 1st Annual Manchester Main Street “Light Up The Town” Holiday Gala a huge success. The December 1 sold out progressive dinner event was in celebration of this year’s MMS accomplishments. “One of Manchester Main Street’s main goals is to promote all North Manchester has to offer – a wide range of retail establishments, beautiful buildings and scenery, great restaurants and creative and multi-talented community members,” said Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director. “I think this event did just that and provided a memorable night out on the town in which to feature and enjoy it all!”

We are grateful for the MMS Board members, countless volunteers and event attendees who played a huge role in our efforts to ”Light Up The Town”. The evening could not have been possible without venue hosts Brian and Jennifer Pattison, Scott and Jodi Zook and Matt and Heather Howard. Their three historic downtown buildings – Hotel Sheller, Zook’s Café and Square Pixel Studio – were beautifully transformed into holiday splendor by Fran Gratz, Sharon Fruitt and Jeanne Andersen, respectively.

Local event sponsors and donors included: Batteries Plus, Beacon Credit Union, BIT Computers, NiMa, Shepherd’s Chevrolet, Strauss Veal Feeds, Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Richard Livingston, Leland and Angilee Beery, Edward and Martha Miller, Dennis and Rosemary Butler, Crossroads Bank, Bill and Mary Earle, Economic Development Group of Wabash County, Ryan Hedstrom and Elizabeth Struble, Manchester Realty, Mark Phillabaum, Fahs Brown Plumbing, J.L. Hawkins Family Farm, Manchester Family Dentistry and Anonymous.

Ryan Hedstrom & Dr. Elizabeth Struble, Mark & Karen Huntington, Dr. Eric & Jennifer Reichenbach at Square Pixel Studio. ©2012 Michele Marie Photography

Hotel Sheller’s select hors d’oeuvres were prepared by Main View and Sycamore Golf Club. KenapocoMocha Coffee Shop and Zook’s Café created exclusive dinner selections. Delectable desserts from Grandma’s Kitchen & Cakes, Nordmann’s Nook and Manchester Marketplace were served at Square Pixel Studio. Specialty drinks were provided by Main View, Zook’s Café and Brewhouse. Musical accents and infectious dancing were courtesy of Jennifer Reichenbach and DJ Paul Howard. And, Gala guests took home numerous one of a kind silent auction treasures generously donated by area businesses and artisans.

Click here to download the evening’s Event Brochure. Gala Photobooth images by Lori Myers and Susi Stephan can be viewed or downloaded at www.manchestermainstreet.shutterfly.com. Additional event photos by Michele Graham can be accessed on facebook at http://on.fb.me/XgvuCB. For more information, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.

Manchester Main Street (MMS) is thankful for the tremendous support of local businesses and residents in helping “Light Up The Town” this holiday season. The Main Street business corridor is dazzling with festive white lights outlining the merchants’ windows. You may also notice new artwork in the downtown vacant storefronts? MMS’ Historic Preservation & Design and Promotion & Art committees have collaborated with Manchester Community Schools (MCS) for this latest installation.

Each year MCS elementary, intermediate and junior high students create colorful banner designs for the Honeywell Center’s Holiday Street Banner Contest. Wabash and Miami County districts are invited to participate, and ten banners from each school are submitted and displayed at the Clark Gallery. This year 26 winners were honored and will be reproduced as full-sized light pole banners. MCS’ 2012 selections, normally on display in downtown North Manchester, will instead be hung around the Honeywell Center in Wabash.

In their absence, MMS coordinated with MCS art teachers to fill the windows of eleven vacant storefronts with the student banner artwork. We invite you to take a stroll downtown. 105 creative holiday scenes complement the decorative lighting on Main and Walnut Streets. And, while taking in the sights, be sure to stop by North Manchester’s many unique retailers and specialty stores for all your holiday shopping needs. For more information, contact Renata Robinson, MMS Executive Director.