By By ERIKA PICKLES / Niles Daily Star
NILES – What's going on in downtown Niles? A lot, to be straight and to the point.
For those of you who haven't ventured downtown lately, you may want to consider going soon. Not only does Niles have some great new shops that have opened this year, but more new businesses are in the process of opening.
"It's a really good time to be in Niles," said Lisa Croteau, Program manager of Niles Main Street. "We have some great stores opening and a lot of events coming up."
One new restaurant, Rendezvous, may be opening on the second floor of the Gallery. The restaurant is owned by the same people who made crepes at the French Market.
"They were a big hit this summer," Croteau said.
Another shop, which has many around town talking, is Your Kitchen Connection, which is owned by Jill Roberts. Work has already started on the new business, which will be located at 225 Main St.. Some items that will be available in the store are on display in the front window.
"She has really done a nice job with that store so far. I think people will love it," Croteau added.
Your Kitchen Connection will have everything any kitchen needs – kitchenware, cookware, utensils, glassware and much more. Croteau said the store should be open in November.
Red Purl just recently opened their doors and gives area residents a chance to purchase high-end yarns for all their knitting needs. Owner Amy Smerekanich said she has an emphasis on small, independent yarn companies and purchases local yarn. She also offers knitting classes for beginners or those who are more advanced. Smerekanich can be reached at 687-0411.
Also, the Golden Nugget is getting a facelift and the new facade will be complete shortly. The name has also changed to The Nugget Downtown Grill.
Jim Flood, owner of Flood Construction who is making the changes to the restaurant, said it's going to be a big change.
"We've had many other people call and ask about storefronts and businesses. A lot of people are showing interest. In December, we usually get a lot of calls from people who are looking to open in the spring. Things are really looking good for downtown Niles," Croteau said.
Many other great stores opened this year and Croteau said people will be thrilled to see what's new and what's coming in.
Not only have new stores brought more to the downtown area, but a list full of events is planned for this month and throughout November.
On Saturday, Oct. 27, the eighth annual Safe Trick-or-Treat will be held downtown. The Niles Library will be hosting the costume contest from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Costume Categories include cutest, scariest, funniest and book characters.
Age Divisions will be 0 to 4-year-olds; 5 to 8-year-olds and 9 to 12 years old.
A $25 book store gift certificate will be awarded to each age group/category winner, plus dozens of door prizes throughout the afternoon.
Parents and children may pre-register in the library's children's department beginning Saturday, Oct 20. For more information on the costume contest, contact the library.
From 4 to 5 p.m., Trick or Treating will take place downtown, giving children a chance to be safe and get great treats from local businesses.
From Friday, Nov. 2 to Sunday, Nov. 4, the fourth annual Majerek's Holiday Open House will be held.
It's hard to believe, but decorating for the holidays is just one month away. Here's your chance to help get downtown Niles ready for the holiday season.
Downtown decorating will take place Sunday, Nov. 18 from 1 to 3 p.m. Croteau said chili and hot chocolate will be provided for those who volunteer.
On Saturday, Nov. 24, Holiday Homecoming will be held at 4 p.m. The lighting of downtown Niles will take place and Santa will be making a stop in Niles at dusk.
"We have a lot going on right now and we are very excited," Croteau said. She also added anyone who is willing to volunteer for any of the events may do so by contacting her at 687-4332.