Back To School for Duluth Merchants

It might be summer break for most kids, but it was back-to-school night for Duluth Merchants Association members and guests as in Duluth hosted the June DMA Meeting June 5.

Members dined on healthy and tasty subs, salad and fruit surrounded by stuffed animals, learning toys, books, and natural playscapes as the décor of the evening. DMA member Mark Williams of Printing Trade Company (currently running for Georgia House District 96) tested the smaller-scale furniture as he demonstrated his alphabet and language skills for the group.

The Schoolhouse is a non-traditional “learning community for children ages 1 to 4 who are taught by teachers who embrace the joys of learning and its unimaginable possibilities.” As owner Angilla Jones shared the school’s unique approach to learning, her obvious energy and passion about helping educate our young ones was apparent. What a great way to nurture an active positive lifestyle!

In true school fashion, we had our own version of “Show and Tell” as DMA members and guests were all given an opportunity to speak to the group and strut their stuff.

DMA member Kathryn Willis reminded everyone of the upcoming June 30th event on the Duluth Town Green, “The 30th on the 30th”, celebrating the 30-year anniversary of the Duluth Fall Festival. There will be music, fun and food for everyone as the final check to pay for the Festival Center will be presented to the city. Proceeds from the festival were used to pay for the $1.3-million cost of the center. Very impressive!

Duluth City Manager Tim Shearer noted there are a lot of good organizations and folks out in our community working to make a difference. Being new to the area, he has already noticed that there are hundreds of non-profit groups with specific skills, interests, assets and missions. He hopes to find ways to bring groups together to further enhance their successes.       

Chris McGahee, Duluth Economic Development manager, stated downtown will be at full occupancy soon with three new businesses coming to Main Street. The new roundabout in Duluth is functioning well, and AGCO has donated funds for artwork to be installed there. The flags placed on display for Memorial Day will remain another 30 days while the City of Duluth competes in Rand McNally and USA Today's contest.

The meeting ended, school was over, but our lifelong learning continues! The next meeting will be on July 10 at The Parc at Duluth where we expect to find many other folks young at heart….please join us!

Positively yours,

Sheri and Bill