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DOWAGIAC — With support from community businesses and many individuals, the Decorate Dowagiac committee is nearing the completion of its first funding goal. 

The committee’s mission is building upon and enhancing the City of Dowagiac’s traditional holiday streetscape decorations.  

“Our first project was to embellish the City Christmas Tree that is set up in Beckwith Park annually,” stated Melissa Gunn, owner of Deck the Halls and the committee’s Chairwoman. “With donations from the community we will accomplish that goal in time for the holiday season and are really excited to have the community gather for the tree lighting.”

Gunn shared that multiple businesses have made very generous contributions to Decorate Dowagiac so far, including Bromley Farmhouse, Cottage Gallery, Deck the Halls, Olympia Books, Creative Vinyl Signs, Cruise Planners, Dowagiac Lions Club, Lake Effect HVAC Company, Venue 132 and 1870 House.

“We have a ways to go, and are excited to keep the refresh going,” she added, “so we are really hoping more people will contribute to this Christmas spirit project.”

To celebrate the community’s tree and its new dressing, an official tree lighting will be held Friday, November 15, with a short presentation beginning at 6 p.m. in Beckwith Park. 

The tree lighting coincides with Dowagiac’s Christmas Open House Weekend, which will be held November 14 to November 16. Retailers and restaurants will be in festive form throughout the three days, and family activities are scheduled for Saturday. Event details are posted at www.dowagiacchamber.com, under Events, as well as on the Chamber’s Facebook page.

The Decorate Dowagiac committee has a multiyear plan to enhance the basic décor supplies that are already in stock, replace worn out items, and add new features. The non-profit Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce is facilitating the collection of donations for Decorate Dowagiac. All funds received will be used for the purchase of holiday décor and supplies for streetscapes.  

Donations can be made online at www.dowagiacchamber.com. Click the big red ornament at the bottom of the landing page to contribute.