The Michigan Downtown Association (MDA) will host its annual Lansing Day event on Wednesday, March 7, in the Mackinac Room of the Anderson House Office Building, 124 N. Capitol Avenue in Lansing. This annual event is an opportunity for MDA members to meet their state legislators, to learn and share the MDA's current legislative concerns, and to become more effective advocates on behalf of their communities at the state level. With the 2018-19 legislative session just beginning and many new state representatives in the House, MDA members can benefit from participation in Lansing Day.
The one-day event features a legislative update on important legislation concerning downtowns in Michigan, the opportunity for downtown professionals to share key messages with legislators, a luncheon with legislators and their staff in the Mackinac Room, an introduction to the House of Representatives, and more.
"With TIF legislation still being discussed at the state level, it is just as important as ever that the legislators see our presence and hear our voices," explains Becky Goodman, chair of the MDA Board of Directors. "A lot of good work has been accomplished in this area, but this is not the time to lose focus on this very serious topic."
"The workshop being held on the next day is designed to be a fun and fast-paced day, full of ideas that you can literally steal and use the day your return home. Please take this opportunity to brighten the winter months with networking and education and advocacy."
Following Lansing Day, the MDA will host a springtime workshop on Thursday, March 8, titled "R & D 101: Rip Off and Duplicate Your Way to the Top." The workshop takes place at Old Town Marquee, 319 E. Grand River in Lansing. The workshop features ideas and examples that can be copied and utilized in every town, big or small. Each workshop speaker has organized and/or implemented an easily replicated program, policy, or event and knows first-hand what worked and what did not. Attendees will learn best practices and have the opportunity to borrow templates and review lessons learned in eight sessions with topics ranging from economic development to promotions and everything in between. Registration opens at 8:30 am.
Registration rates for the two events, online registration, and more information can be found at www.michigandowntowns.com or call 248-838-9711 or email info@michigandowntowns.com.
Founded in 1980, the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA) is a state-wide, non-profit organization and a driving force in the interest and growth of downtowns and communities throughout Michigan. The MDA encourages the development, redevelopment and continuing improvement of Michigan communities and downtowns.
Published: Mon, Feb 12, 2018
