posted on April 13, 2010 11:23
By Jamie Schriner-Hooper
Organization Specialist
Michigan Main Street Center
Michigan State Housing Development Authority
It’s hard to believe, but fall is not too far away; which means that the Michigan Downtown Conference planning partners are hard at work to make the 2010 conference the best yet. Taking place in downtown Bay City on September 13 and 14, 2010, attendees will be treated to two full days of best practices and real life experiences from other Michiganians revitalizing their downtowns. With the theme of “Michigan’s Downtowns. Yes, We’re open!” based on the award-winning Michigan Main Street video, this year’s conference will feature ideas on how to revitalize Michigan’s downtowns.
While we’re looking at what to do to help our Michigan downtowns, we’re focusing in on what we can also do to help Michigan, which means, we’re soliciting all types of Michigan folks to help meet our conference needs.
Last year, for the first time, we solicited Michigan artists to design and create our Michigan Downtown Conference awards. What we received in responses was nothing short of extraordinary – and our Michigan Main Street communities really came through! From great brushed and recycled metal sculptures to hand-made tiles to fused glass plaques, the proposed designs were amazing. So much, in fact, it was extremely difficult to decide on a design and artist. However, the planning partners decided on the Marshall Afterschool Arts Apprenticeship Program, who recreated the Michigan Downtown Conference logo with fused glass and mounted it on a Michigan-grown wood base.
We had such a positive response stemming from last year’s award, especially from our winners, that we decided to do it again. So, calling all Michigan-based artists! We’ve posted the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the design and creation of the 2010 Michigan Downtown Conference award. Proposals are due by May 14, 2010 at 5pm. Click HERE for the full RFP.
In addition to the awards, we’re seeking out speakers to share their great ideas with our attendees. The planning committee has also posted a Call for Presentations (CFP) If you have a great idea or best practice to share, submit your idea! Presentation proposals are due Friday, April 16, 2010 at 4pm, so don’t delay.
We at the Michigan Main Street Center @ MSHDA look forward to continuing to see all that Michigan’s traditional downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts have to offer!