Members of the Business Improvement District plan the events held every year in downtown Shawano.
Marisa Rycroft is the BID coordinator. Her main function is to promote downtown events and raise funds for them.
“I do what the businesses want me to do,” Rycroft said.
The district includes Main Street and Green Bay Street along with adjoining streets. The objective is to economically benefit the businesses in the district by developing and promoting them.
Members of the BID board are Keith Baumann, president; Bob Dumke, vice president; and members Mary Zimanek, Cindy Polzin, Jana Dreier, Idell Johnston, Amanda Hanus, Bobbie Jo Ladwig and Jean Darling.
“The board is wonderful and gives me direction,” Rycroft said.
Hanus, Darling, Zimanek and Ladwig are also members of the events and planning committee.
This year’s events include Downtown Ladies Day on April 30 and Nov. 12, Jumpin’ June Jamboree and Car Show on June 14 and Family Fun Day on Aug. 16. Harvestfest will be held on Sept. 27 so it doesn’t interfere with Octoberfest and the parade on Oct. 5. The Holiday Stroll will be held Nov. 29, and the Santa house and parade will be on Dec. 5.
Rycroft welcomes any input from business people, whether or not they are in the district.
“If they don’t tell me, I can’t change anything,” she said. “We would love input from any of the businesses downtown.”
BID is funded is by assessing the businesses in the district a certain amount on their taxes. In addition to the businesses in the district, others also belong as associate members.
“They feel it’s good for the community and promoting downtown,” Rycroft said.
Rycroft previously was residential coordinator of the Shawano County Department of Community Programs and also ran some small businesses. She said she enjoys helping people and businesses.
Rycroft said good things are happening in Shawano, and new businesses have started and are starting.
“I like meeting people, and this gives me an opportunity to meet all kinds of people, and I like planning parties,” she said. “I think we have a thriving downtown.”
For more information, call 715-853-3775 or visit www.shawanodowntown.com.
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