Congratulations on your discovery! You have become one of the lucky individuals or families who have "discovered" East Jordan. Located on the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix with the acclaimed Jordan River and Jordan Valley in its backyard, East Jordan is a nature and art lovers' uptopia. No matter what season you "discover East Jordan" you are guaranteed a kaleidoscope of scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and memorable adventures. The range of outdoor sports is endless from challenging hiking, great camping, fly fishing on the wild and scenic Jordan River, snowshoeing, canoeing, kayaking, snowmobiling, golfing, boating, and birdwatching. Pick your adventure! East Jordan can satisfy you! If you seek a "quiet" space, the Valley and River offer many places for solitude and reflection.

Besides the state's - perhaps the midwest's - premiere nature-based tourism opportunities, East Jordan is quickly gaining a reputation for and notoriety as a cultural haven. Nationally known artists, writers and musicians have chosen East Jordan as their home base. The community boasts several art studios, a very active arts council (Jordan River Arts Council), and features many cultural exhibits and performances throughout the year. From a hand-blown glass studio, several art and antique shops and a metal sculpture studio soon to be opening, the town is full of creative energies and talent. Combined with a unique blend of specialty shops, quaint restaurants, and comfortable lodging, the town offers something for the entire family to enjoy. Sole proprietors own many of the businesses and it is not uncommon to be waited on by the owner or a family member. Customer service is valued at a premium and practiced regularly.

Presently, the community is experiencing another stage of the "Renaissance Period" with the restoration and development of two major structures in the downtown district. Two abandoned historical structures will be gaining a new life in the upcoming year as they are renovated into two major downtown destination points. Another historical structure, which has been abandoned and neglected for years on the other end of the downtown district, is also being resurrected. All around the community, "restoration" and "renovation" are being seen.

For the budding entrepreneur or family looking to relocate, the community offers much opportunity. Besides available retail spaces, the industrial park presently offers available lots for industrial development. East Jordan is very proud to be the home of the country's largest employer, the family-owned East Jordan Iron Works, Inc. It is also home to two other family-owned and operated industries: East Jordan Plastics, Inc., owned by the Diller family, and Burnette Foods, Inc., owned and operated by the Sherman family. Serveral businesses in the town also boast multi-generational history and success.

East Jordan offers the finest in education. All of its schools boast a North Central Accreditation (being only 1 of 5 in the state). It also offers excellent medical care, many civic and cultural groups to participate in, and is friendly and easy to be part of the community.

As I stated earlier, congratulations on your discovery! You have found one of the state's best-kept secrets and one the north's finest jewels!

Hope to see you soon and once you've visited, hope to see you often! You're only a stranger here but once!

If you choose to stay as a resident, we'd love to have you get involved in our community of opportunity!

Best regards,
Mary H. Faculak
Executive Director, East Jordan Chamber of Commerce

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