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DDA presents first two Downtown Beautification awards

Jennifer and Steve, owners of The Shoppes of Amber Mill

In October the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) announced that it was creating a Downtown Beautification Award in order to recognize Village of Manchester businesses, nonprofits, and churches whose property reflects their community pride “through upgrades to the physical appearance of their storefronts, enhancing the atmosphere and aesthetics of the village.”

The DDA has selected its first two businesses to receive the award. In December they recognized The Shoppes of Alber Mill and this month they are recognizing Frank Place.

The Shoppes of Alber Mill is located at 210 E. Main Street. The DDA selected The Shoppes of Alber Mill to be recognized because owners Jennifer and Steve have made many improvements to the old mill and surrounding property. They stated, “The building exterior has been cleaned and repainted. New landscaping creates a welcoming environment. The Albers have a 5-year plan to complete river-front and Island revitalization, which will be accessible to the public. The porch is now home to chairs and benches creating a community place for comfort and conversation. The Albers are recruiting new businesses to our community.”

Frank’s Place, located at 104 East Main Street, has been a staple in our community for 36 years and has recently undergone a complete face lift inside and out. The DDA states, “The current owners, Jim, Denise, and Jimi Collins, and Jessica Bushaw have owned Frank Place for 10 years. They have lovingly restored and renewed this historic space. The exterior adorns new windows, sign, lighting, and painting. The interior welcomes each patron with exposed brick, cozy booths, new lighting and decor. The reopening was long anticipated. People have been flooding through the doors, and now when you pass through town any day or night it’s difficult to find parking. That’s a good problem to have. Thanks for helping in the revitalization of Manchester.” The family would like to thank Kirk Valentine from Sphere Management in Adrian for helping them realize their vision.

Anyone in the local area can nominate a business, nonprofit, or church to win a beautification award. Nomination forms can be downloaded here:  or at the Chamber of Commerce website at 48158.com. Hard copies also can be picked up at River Raisin Antiques at 138 E. Main Street. Forms should be mailed to P.O. Box 477, Manchester, Mi 48158, or dropped off at River Raisin Antiques. You may also email your nomination to riverraisinantiques@gmail.com.

Denise, Jim, Jimi and Jessica, owners of Frank’s Place.

by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and a founder of the Manchester Mirror.