ENTERTAINMENT

Crowdfunding campaign launched to support Portland's Red Mill Pavilion

(Prepared for) The Ionia Sentinel-Standard

Friends of the Red Mill Secretary Lee Hunsberger, left, and board chair Noreen Logel showcase the sign featuring the pavilion project back in December. The group recently launched a crowdfunding campaign. If the Red Mill Pavilion attains its crowdfunding goal of $50,000 by April 15, MEDC will provide a $50,000 matching grant. For project details and to donate, visit: https://www.patronicity.com/project/red_mill_pavilion_project#/.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Friends of The Red Mill have announced a new crowdfunding campaign through Michigan-based crowdfunding platform Patronicity. The campaign will support the construction of a timber-framed pavilion for the Portland community.

“The Red Mill Pavilion project will provide residents and visitors with new recreational opportunities and help bring new vitality to downtown Portland,” said MEDC Community Assistance Team Specialist Nate Scramlin.

If the Red Mill Pavilion attains its crowdfunding goal of $50,000 by April 15, MEDC will provide a $50,000 matching grant. For project details and to donate, visit: https://www.patronicity.com/project/red_mill_pavilion_project#/.

“We are very excited to be able to raise additional monies through this MEDC grant. This project will not only provide a gathering place for residents and visitors but will be an opportunity to build our community by working together. We look forward to welcoming the Timber Framers' Guild from all across America to assist us with this project. This building will be part of the fabric of America,” said Friends of the Red Mill committee members.

The historic Red Mill was built around 1900 and rehabilitated in 2000. Since 2001 the site has been used for the ever-growing Portland Farmer’s Market. The newly constructed Red Mill Pavilion, which will be built adjacent to the current Red Mill, will add space to the current famer’s market and will also provide opportunities for social and civic events. For example, family reunions, wedding receptions, flea markets, ice skating rink, and more. With the completion of this project, the Red Mill Pavilion will serve as a focal point and gathering place for the community.

“This is what being a Michigan Main Street community is all about – taking advantage of opportunities to strengthen city centers and attract new residents, visitors, and businesses to downtown,” said Michigan Main Street Manager Laura Krizov.

Public Spaces Community Places is a collaborative effort of the MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity where local residents can use crowdfunding to be part of the development of strategic projects in their communities and be backed with a matching grant from MEDC. Communities, non-profits and other business entities can apply at https://patronicity.com/puremichigan.

Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy. For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit MichiganBusiness.org.