The Role of Associations in Downtown Ann Arbor

Downtown Ann Arbor is more than just a collection of buildings and businesses; it's the beating heart of our city, where culture, commerce, and community converge. The State Street District, Main Street Area Association, and Kerrytown District Association stand out as pillars of support for the downtown community. In this blog post, we'll delve into the collective impact of commercial associations in downtowns and how they contribute to the growth and vitality.

Understanding 501(c)(6) Nonprofit Status

Before we explore the roles of these commercial associations, it's essential to understand what a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization is. A 501(c)(6) designation is granted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to business leagues, chambers of commerce, trade associations, and other similar organizations. Unlike charitable nonprofits (501(c)(3) organizations), which focus on charitable, educational, religious, or scientific purposes, 501(c)(6) organizations are primarily formed to promote the common business interests of their members. This designation allows them to engage in activities such as lobbying, advocacy, and marketing on behalf of their members, while still receiving certain tax benefits; a proven model across the country.

Fostering Community Engagement

Commercial associations play a unique role in fostering community engagement and social cohesion within our respective district. From organizing neighborhood clean-up events and beautification projects to hosting street closures and art fairs, associations create opportunities for residents, visitors, and businesses to connect and celebrate the spirit of downtown, serving as stewards of their communities, promoting a sense of belonging and pride among stakeholders. Their primary purpose is to promote the common interests and goals of their members, working closely with local government entities while operating independently.

Supporting Local Businesses

A key focus of the commercial associations is to support and promote local businesses within their districts. Through targeted marketing campaigns, cooperative advertising initiatives, and partnerships programs, associations provide invaluable resources and support to downtown merchants. Whether it's advocating for improved signage or wayfinding, facilitating networking opportunities, or organizing promotional events and sales, the associations play a role in driving foot traffic and sales for local establishments.

Advocating for Downtown's Interests

In addition to efforts to support local businesses, commercial associations serve as advocates for the interests of downtown stakeholders. By liaising with city officials, policymakers, and other community organizations, associations work to address issues such as parking, infrastructure improvements, safety concerns, and zoning regulations that impact the vitality of their districts. Through collective advocacy and collaboration, these associations ensure that the voice of downtown Ann Arbor is heard and that policies are enacted to promote the continued growth and success of the downtown business community.

Engagment with Associations

Engaging with these organizations not only fosters personal growth and community connections but also empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of downtown. By volunteering time, expertise, or resources, residents and stakeholders can directly influence the direction and impact of initiatives aimed at enhancing the vibrancy and inclusivity of our downtown district. Whether it's participating in clean-up events, serving on committees, or attending community meetings, every act of engagement strengthens the collective voice and capacity for positive change.

Furthermore, staying informed about local issues, developments, and opportunities allows individuals to advocate for policies and projects that align with their values and priorities. Together, through active engagement, informed decision-making, and collaborative action, we can come together and build upon the successes of our downtown associations and shape a future that reflects the aspirations and needs of our community. Join us in making a difference—get involved, volunteer, and stay informed to do more good!

What’s next?

The collective impact of a downtown business association cannot be overstated. Together, commercial associations serve as the backbone of downtown communities, playing a pivotal role in fostering engagement, supporting local businesses, and advocating for the interests of downtown stakeholders. After all, what good is a downtown without a thriving business community at its heart? As we look ahead to celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of downtown Ann Arbor, it's crucial to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of these associations to the growth and vitality of our beloved city. To find out more about joining State Street District, click HERE!

References:

• City of Ann Arbor. (2022). Ann Arbor Community Values and Priorities Survey. Retrieved from https://www.a2gov.org/departments/community-services/planning-and-development/long-range-planning/Pages/Community-Values-and-Priorities.aspx

• International Downtown Association. (n.d.). Resources. Retrieved from https://downtown.org/sub-topics/research/

• Urban Land Institute. (n.d.). Publications. Retrieved from https://americas.uli.org/publications/

• National Association of Development Organizations. (n.d.). Resource Library. Retrieved from https://www.nado.org/resource-center/

• American Planning Association. (n.d.). Research and Publications. Retrieved from https://www.planning.org/publications/

5 Reasons Why State Street District is Best Part of Downtown Ann Arbor

By Oxford Companies

1. Nickels Arcade is an Ann Arbor gem.

One of Ann Arbor’s most recognizable, iconic buildings – Nickels Arcade is over 100 years old and has housed retailers, restauranteurs, and other service providers throughout Ann Arbor’s vast history. The University Flower Shop is arguably the most charming florist in Ann Arbor, and Parrish Fine Framing & Art Inc. is an Ann Arbor mainstay for art and framing. MIX offers eye-catching clothing and accessories that defy the norm. You’ll even find coffee and chocolate and other treats in the Arcade!

2. Tasty eats abound!

Ann Arbor is undoubtedly a world-class dining destination, with eateries serving cuisine inspired by world cultures, local farms, and brilliant culinary minds. In the State Street District, some of our favorites include Amer’s Mediterranean Grill for simple and tasty falafel and a huge sandwich menu, Michigan Creamery for refreshing ice cream treats, and Red Hawk Bar & Grill for their great beer selection and awesome black bean burger.

3. Parking is easier than you think!

When visiting a vibrant downtown area, people also cringe at the notion of finding parking – but here in the State Street District, we’ve got you covered. Multiple covered parking structures are located throughout the neighborhood – like the Thompson/Maynard Garage and the N4 Thayer Structure – and there’s tons of street parking as well. You can also head up State Street to the First Baptist Church of Ann Arbor, which offers AirGarage parking on most days and nights.

4. Unique, unbeatable shops.

Van Boven Clothing and Van Boven Shoes, both located at Nickels Arcade, have been outfitting fashionable Ann Arborites since 1933 with unique apparel and footwear from around the world. If you’re shopping for gifts, you’ll want to stop by Arcadian Antiques and the Caravan Gift Shop, both of which offer unexpected goods that you won’t find anywhere else. Bivouac, which started as an Army surplus store over 50 years ago, now outfits students and others with outerwear and adventure gear, as well as fashionable clothing for nights out and about.

5. Murals, sculptures, and more!

Public art is everywhere throughout the State Street District. On the University of Michigan’s campus, just south of the main shopping area in the District, you’ll find the University of Michigan Museum of Art and several of its large outdoor sculptures, like Orion and Shang. At the corner of South State and North University, you’ll also find a unique bronze water fountain created by artist Alin Polasek that dates back to U-M’s 1919 Commencement, with figures in the bas relief that represent youth, labor, poetry, and philosophy. On Liberty Street, you’ll see lots of murals and painted art, including the famous Bookstore Mural – and, a new piece by Matthew Sharum and facilitated by Oxford Companies. With a nod to the ‘town and gown’ culture of Ann Arbor, this new mural has an interesting 3-D element that encourages the viewer to engage with it – be sure to check it out!

For more about the State Street District and events happening in the neighborhood, be sure to follow along on Facebook and Instagram.

Ashley's 35th Anniversary

First opening in 1983, Ashley’s became the oldest craft beer restaurant and pub in the state of Michigan. It’s safe to say they opened before the term “craft beer” was even coined. Ashley’s is located right in the center of downtown Ann Arbor at 338 South State Street and has a second location open in Westland, located at 7525 N. Wayne Rd. This year, Ashley’s is celebrating their 35th anniversary and is very proud to say they are 8,965 days Bud Light free. No better way to celebrate than to custom brew a special commemorative batch of beer!

The bar inside of Ashley’s on South State Street

Brought to us by Bell’s Brewery (Michigan’s oldest and largest independent craft brewery), Ashley’s 35th Anniversary Ale is an Imperial Oatmeal Stout with an ABV of 8.5%. It’s only available on draught and will be around through December. Trust us, it’s delicious; but if you would like to try something else, Ashley’s has around 70 beers to choose from. Owner Jeff More refers to it as a “collection” rather than a “selection."

“From the hoppy British bitters to the dark lagers of South Germany, from the classic Pilsners of Bohemia to the arcane fruit beers of Flanders, from the craft micro-brew beers of the US Pacific northwest to the finest Michigan micro-brews.”

— Ashley's

Jeff More helping create the 35th Anniversary Ale at Bell’s Brewery

We wanted to know a little more about beer, and how to find the right one, so we sat down with Jeff to get some pro-tips. 

What is beer made of?

“There are 4 ingredients in beer: water, yeast, malt, and hops. Hops are a preservative, an agent for aroma, and they contribute to the bitterness of the beer. Malt provides the sweetness, and body in alcohol. All ingredients must be balanced and in harmony in order to achieve the perfect beer”

How do I find a beer I really like?

“Look at what flavors you like when it comes to food. Now look at how those flavors can be used to craft a beer. The palette of ingredients that can be used in beer is so diverse that such amazing flavors can be created. There are 1,000’s of different types of yeast to choose from, like butterscotch yeast or citrus yeast. It’s amazing what you can do.”

What’s the perfect temperature for beer?

“Good beer will be served north of 40 degrees. You will notice how great the flavor is. If your beer is being served ice cold, you’re definitely missing out. For example, Founders Canadian Breakfast Stout is a beer that ages in bourbon barrels. These bourbon barrels have previously aged maple syrup… so can you image what rich flavor it has? It should be served warmer, about 45-50 degrees.”

What does DIPA mean?

“This just means the beer has double the hops and malt, so it’s stronger and contains a higher alcohol content. It stands for Double India Pale Ale, and is also known as Imperial IPA.”

“If you don’t like beer, that’s great — we can work with you and expand your palette. If you like Budweiser, there’s not much we can do.”

— Jeff More

SEE Eyewear: A Closer Look

SEE has worked hard since 1998 to bring unique and stylish eyewear to the people of Ann Arbor. Starting April 19th SEE will be hosting its annual Spring Trunk Show. The Spring Trunk Show will offer customers amazing Spring styles. These styles will cause serious eyewear envy considering there are a very limited number created, making them and YOU incredibly unique! You can just walk in to SEE what all of the hype is about or make an appointment with a stylist to get some one on one attention. The Trunk Show goes through April 22nd and you get a FREE GIFT (while supplies last), valued at $45 with your eyewear purchase on Thursday and Friday!  

One of the many unique designs SEEn at the store

    When’s the last time you had an eye examination? If you have to think about it, then it has been too long. Lucky for you, SEE offers eye examinations 6 days a week. Sunday is a new addition for SEE to have the eye doctor in, and parking is free so it’s easy to get downtown for a check up. Speaking of new, SEE makes sure they offer new inventory once a month. This means you will most likely SEE some glasses that fit your evolving style every visit.  

    SEE has a vision for using quality material in their products. They use Mazzucchelli, the finest Italian acetate. Mazzucchelli is ‘known for its strength, versatility, and most importantly its vibrant color.’ SEE values individuality and carefully crafted pieces. They have brought an entirely new layer of artistry to eyewear. They offer handmade styles from Italy, Germany, France, throughout Europe and even the US. Take a look around and SEE for yourself just how amazing their products are. You have the perfect opportunity at the Spring Trunk Show this week.  

The Spring Trunk Show Invitation

University Flower Shop: A Flourishing Local Business

Young, hard-working, local business owners in Downtown Ann Arbor play an important role in maintaining the vibrant energy of the neighborhood. Dani Vignos, the owner of the University Flower Shop that is located in the 100-year old Nickels arcade, purchased the shop in April, 2015, just before she graduated from Michigan. She had aspirations of entrepreneurship after college and the opportunity to revamp the flower shop as the new owner had impeccable timing. Though she knew taking on this kind of responsibility would have its challenges, encouraging words from other young entrepreneurs in the area combined with her vision of success solidified her decision to pursue this path.    

Dani’s vision of the flower shop has blossomed (literally and figuratively) as she has created a beautiful space where guests are immediately greeted with smiles and the scent of fresh flowers. While discussing why she chose this industry, Dani goes in depth about her love of creation and the special significance in flowers, a perishable masterpiece. The composition of various bouquets and flower arrangements allows for her creativity to flourish (pun intended). The University Flower Shop has been around since the 1930s and cycled through different owners, but Dani has eloquently illustrated the special experience of supporting your local flower shop.

A view just outside the shop, stroll through Nickels Arcade and you can't miss it!

Through supporting University Flower Shop you support local farms where Dani sources her product. One of Dani’s favorite parts of her job is going to the farms and picking the flowers herself. This process allows for a deeper connection with her product and the local flower farmers. She gets especially excited by the approach of spring, that first delivery after a long winter foreshadows what’s to come in Michigan. Dani’s involvement in the Michigan Flower Growers Co-Op has nourished her passion even more as she witnesses the importance of building relationships with the flower farmers.

Locally sourced flowers from @forgetmenotfarmsmi

An image of the power flower, Cymbidium Orchid

It was her Father’s rose garden that introduced Dani to her first flower love, the Garden Rose. She also loves the Muscari, an adorable spring flower that blooms in purples and whites, perfect for a fresh bouquet. A power flower and another favorite of hers is the Cymbidium Orchid, which ‘stands out in singularity’ according to Dani. Dahlias and Peony Tulips also have a place in her heart as some personal floral favorites.  

Supporting any local businesses remains important in order to maintain the vitality of a neighborhood. Ann Arbor cultivates a strong support system for local businesses to thrive and grow just like a beautiful flower in a nourished garden.

Dascola Barbers: A Staple of Ann Arbor

It all started 79 years ago when Bob Dascola’s father, Dominic, moved from the Upper Peninsula to pursue his academic career at the University of Michigan. Dominic Dascola (Dom) graduated from the University of Michigan in 1936 with an LS&A degree. He continued in academia and earned a Masters degree in Linguistics while working as a barber at the Michigan Union.  

Bob Dascola pictured with what you can see in the background as what he likes to call his 'happy mirror' covered with the photos of his long-term customers, family Christmas cards and so on.

Dom’s love for learning continued on when he opened a barbershop of his own where he started learning through the people he connected with. As Bob says about working at Dascola Barbers, “this is a cultural and intellectual experience.” Bob does not just cut hair, he builds lasting relationships with his customers. The biggest reason why Dascola Barbers has thrived for as long as it has and has maintained its name as an Ann Arbor staple is because of the relationships with the people. In addition to emphasis on good relationships, Dascola’s is a local family business that adds to the vitality of downtown.  

Walking into Dascola you will instantly feel a sense of home and family. The environment is welcoming and immediately transmits historic energy. As you look around the walls you will see the history in pictures of the many loyal customers. Photos depicted the history of people that have been with Dascola from childhood to adulthood. Also you will see the wall dedicated to the beautiful and talented singer, Celilia Bartoli. Celilia is good friend of Bob Dascola’s and is well known for her opera career in Rome, Italy. She is not the only famous face to see Bob, but also, the Disney star, Ethan Steiner from ‘Newsies’ is a regular of Dascola. Bob prides himself on creating an experience at the barbershop, a time to conversate while freshening up your look.  

A picture Bob referred to as the 'best photo taken' of him and Celilia Bartoli.

So if you go to Dascola Barbers be prepared to not only leave with a slick new haircut, but a smile on your face and feeling of warmth in your heart. It is not just a place focused on cutting hair, but caring for the people.

How the State Street Art Fair shapes the landscape of the District

In The Life and Death of American Cities, Jane Jacobs describes the life of a neighborhood comes from the make-up of the neighborhood. If we continue with that thought process, than the State Street Art Fair is a major organ of the District and the overall quality of the neighborhood.  

Fifty years ago, the neighborhood decided to follow the Street Art Fair on South University and began the State Street Art Fair.  The fair was made up of artists and sidewalk sales to help the neighborhood business get through the summer. Over the years, State Street’s eclectic menagerie has developed into a thriving art fair with many returning artists and members excited for the annual event.  Many returning fairgoers return to the State Street Art Fair for the same businesses they love to see every year.  They return to see the returning artists and to see new, cutting edge artists. The fairgoers form lines for our great restaurants and at our retailers who are having great sales to help them clear inventory. It is four days of hot temperatures and lots of excitement.

But, in the end we return to the starting basis for the fair...to expand bargain days and encourage business in the slower summer months.  The additional 350,000 to 500,000 people that come to Ann Arbor during the art fair provide our local businesses with an income stream that many other college towns do not see. The influx of customers and income enable businesses to flourish year round.  Our local seasonal shops, such as gelato and ice cream are able to make enough extra income to sustain them through the lean winter months.

The Art Fair also provides local shops with exposure to a larger demographic that they would not get otherwise. The District has been able to maintain many of their local ‘mom-and-pop’ stores. The sidewalk sales during art fair give our local retailers the opportunity to expand their square footage for 4 days and expand their services.  Local retailers are able to sell much of their seasonal inventory to prepare for the fall season and the coming year.  Customers also have the opportunity to make purchases at great prices. Even our national retailers take advantage of the bargain opportunity. Seasonal items are shipped into the Ann Arbor stores from the midwest region to help liquidate inventory.  For the fair goers it means more great retail deals.

In 2016, the days of the fair shift from Wednesday thru Saturday to Thursday thru Sunday.  The decision was made due to requests from artists.  As fairs have changed over the years the circuit schedule needed to be met for the fair to continue to attract great artists.  However, this was done at the expense of our churches.  The District worked closely with our four churches and the City/DDA, and continues to do so to secure continued free parking for their families attending Sunday services. While parking was accessible and free, attendance numbers were down. As the fair continues, the District will work to help the churches raise their attendance on art fair Sunday. Another way to increase the quality of our neighborhood.

The District is looking forward to the next 50 years of the State Street Art Fair and it’s fabulous artists that make the fair possible. The State Street District looks forward to the State Street Art Fair’s continued success and impact on its economic vitality.

2017 Featured Artist: Andy Anh Ha

The featured artist for State Street's 50th fair is the incredibly talented and inspirational Andy Anh Ha. Andy’s unique and self-taught artistry has earned himself recognition by many. A few of his well-known collectors include Jessica Alba, Lily Collins, and Ben Savage. The jumpstart to his career was the first art show he ever participated in. The Beverly Hills Art Show in 2005 recognized his work and awarded him 1st place in painting and the Gil Gorbos Award for Most Original. His early successes only motivated him to share more of his work with the world. 

Andy was born and raised in Nashville, TN and graduated from University of Tennessee with a BFA in Fine Arts in 2004. He currently resides in Los Angeles as all of his work is produced at his studio in LA. He has a personal gallery in Nashville that he has owned and run since 2008 with the help of college friends, Katie and Jack, who are current representatives. He shows in various galleries and art shows across the United States and has a variety of collectors from all over the world consisting of the rich and famous as well as the common art collectors and people in between.  

In a recent interview, Andy opened up about his inspiration deriving from nature and added, “Something that is innate, intrinsic to your everyday life that comes without hindrance. I try to create a sense of organic design.” His eye is drawn to the natural elements of the world.

““From the texture of bark and formation of branches to the deep layers of the ocean and the look of natural stones, these and everything in between create our environment, that’s my inspiration.”  ”

— Andy Anh Ha

His artistic technique is a unique process that he’s come to learn over the past 20 years. Starting in high school, he learned by experience and is self-taught, which is what makes his art so special and unique. When speaking to the origin of his artistic techniques he noted, “Like a scientist would with an experiment to find a result. I have tried many combinations of mixed mediums and would say I've found my niche. I formulate and create mixed mediums applied at different intervals to create depth and texture through layers.”

Through mediums such as, acrylics, oils, polyurethane, polymers and acetone Andy creates valuable pieces that demonstrate the concept of individuality. “What is art if it's not unique to the creator and observer?”   

Some exciting projects of past and present for Andy include the showcasing of his art in the symphony building in Honolulu, Hawaii, the Houston Arena in Texas, art for the set design in the television show True Blood, and “Fifth and Broadway” in Nashville, among many more. We are so excited to showcase Andy as our featured artist this year and look forward to seeing what the 2017 fair has in store for his art. You can get a full look at Andy Anh Ha and his artwork at his website here.