April 16, 2025

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Articles for author: Cassidy Jenkins

Cassidy Jenkins

Commemorating the Legacy of the Milan Jaycees and Auxiliary 40 Years After Disbanding

Reunion celebrates decades of service and the lasting impact of these cherished community organizations. Photo provided by Sallie Bancroft On October 5th, 2024, a group of former Milan Jaycees and Auxiliary members gathered to celebrate an unforgettable milestone: the 40th reunion of these iconic organizations. Though the turnout was intimate, the evening at the American ...

Small Town Downtowns Thrive on Local Support, but There’s More to the Story

How local businesses like The Owl in Milan and Sorellina in Traverse City are thriving by supporting each other and fostering strong community ties. Photo: The Owl, Morning Til’ Night. Credit: Erin Tellas Photography In small-town America, the strength of local economies is often rooted in the relationships between locals and businesses. While much attention ...

Cassidy Jenkins

How Milan Supports Local Artists and Fuels Their Creative Journeys

A Small Town’s Big Impact on Emerging and Established Musicians Photo: Live Music at Tolan Square. Credit: Maxine Tewsley In small towns across America, local artists often find their “big break” not in the form of a record deal or national spotlight, but through the unwavering support of their communities. Milan, Michigan, is one such ...

Cassidy Jenkins

From Mission Point to Main Street: How Historic Preservation Fuels Local Communities

Connecting the Legacy of Old Mission Point Lighthouse to the Revitalization of Towns Like Chelsea, Dexter, and Milan Photo: Mission Point Lighthouse. Photo by Cassidy Jenkins Historic preservation is more than just safeguarding the past—it’s driving tourism and commerce. By restoring landmarks and revitalizing historic districts, communities are creating unique destinations that attract visitors, spark ...

Cassidy Jenkins

Third Thursdays Transforms Downtown Milan into a Monthly Must-Visit

Discover how a monthly event brings new energy and business to a historic district Photo: Downtown Milan, Michigan Facebook In 2017, downtown Milan embarked on a revitalization project that aimed to breathe new life into the area following a significant $5.2 million historical renovation. Despite the impressive facelift, the newly renovated spaces remained largely vacant, ...