EDITOR:

I was recently asked to be interviewed regarding the effects on business during the pandemic. While it’s easy to talk about business and how day-to-day operations are affected, it’s not as easy to convey the true spirit of a community during hard times. This is what I’ve come to discover over the last three years.

I am blessed with an incredible staff with which to work. During this time, they have faithfully come to work with a positive attitude and a dedication to safety for each other, and our guests. Like any workplace, we experience bumps in the road. But, my coworkers pull together to try to be better at what we do.

I grew up in Ishpeming and am well familiar with Yoopers, their work ethic, and their problems solving determination. I have been in the restaurant industry most of my adult life and, as a result, experienced living away. I have, however, been able to spend a great deal of my career in the Upper Peninsula. Being my home, I understand why it holds a special place in the hearts of many, including my own. Across the years I have met a great many people and lived in several communities. All of them unique unto themselves.

Without comparing any community to another, I have learned several things about Escanaba since April of 2017, my date of moving to town, and what makes it special. Escanaba has captured my heart because of the true sense of community. Each summer, there seems to be some event taking place, either at the fairgrounds, or somewhere near town every weekend. Whenever there is a cause to get behind, I often see t-shirts, or other supporting swag, on so many residents (sometimes the visitors too). People are not afraid to reach out to help a neighbor in need. That’s just to name a few.

But what really stands out to me is when the community hits a crisis, there is a real coming together! Whether it’s helping those in need of food, or services to those who are unable, or even supporting local businesses, Escanaba is a true community. A community takes care of its own and I can admire the “Yooper Strong” attitude shown by my neighbors and friends. I want to offer a sincere “Thank You” to my community, especially those on the front lines! We will get through this and show what it really means to be “Yooper Strong”

Brian D. Chilcote

General Manager

Culver’s of Escanaba