Lunch on the Clock (LOTC), similar to Business After Hours, is an informal business social gathering with a guest speaker and catered lunch. It was created to connect our members with other members and organizations and agencies who are committed to helping small businesses and communities grow. While LOTC attendance is geared to our membership, individuals have asked to be included when the topics are of interest to them. So, we welcome anyone who would like to learn more about services our local businesses have to offer. Registration is required. Continue reading for LOTC interinary and schedule.
ITINERARY:
Cost - $10 per person covers meal (drop into basket on buffet food line table; or pre-pay with credit card - a small fee is added to cover bank charge)
Registration is required for lunch count. Save your confirmation email which contains a link to cancel your registration, if you later need to do so. Contact the Chamber of Commerce, 231-587-5500 if you have questions.
Location - Mancelona Township Offices Meeting Room (please use the back door at rear of main parking lot by the recycling bins, south-east corner of building).
11:50 a.m. - Buffet style food line opens
12:05 p.m. - While you are enjoying your meal, presenter provides a brief overview (15-20 minutes) of their business/topic, with an opportunity for questions and answers.
LUNCH ON THE CLOCK NOTES:
We know it's tough to get away from the office at times. If duty calls while you're at any of our lunch meetings, you're not required to stay for the duration. Slip out if you need to!
BRING A BAG, TAKE A BAG - (Participation is optional) Bring a Bag with something from your business, or someone else's (suggested minimum value $10). Place bag on table when you come in. If you bring a bag, take a different bag when you leave. A bottle of wine, gift card to your store or another member's, car wash gift card, restaurant gift card - your choice!
Mancelona Chamber members are invited to host a Lunch on the Clock meal or be a presenter. Give us a call to make arrangements.
UPCOMING 2026 SCHEDULE:
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Presenter: Jennie Zoll, MJ Design Co. - Ever wonder how a hobby turns into a multi-craft business? Join Jennie Zoll, founder of MJ Design Company, for an honest look at the journey from a Cricut machine to a thriving, multi-layered brand. We'll dive into the "how-to" of getting started and the specific local resources that acted as a launchpad for success. MJ Design Co. makes hand-crafted designs and personalized accessories for home, apparel, business, sports, and more. Free samples, give-aways, and door prizes. Homemade soup, salad bar and desserts are on the lunch menu.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Presenter - Rene Maier, Tommy MacDonald - Northern Power Race Park and 10 Pines Ranch are two professionally designed race facilities with year-round events that draw thousands to Mancelona. Northern Power Race Park spans 72 acres and serves as the central hub for Michigan's racing community. 10 Pines Ranch is nrothern Michigan's newest motocross race facility, with a mile-long sanctioned track. Hear the impact these two businesses have had on Mancelona since they opened. Swag items, give-aways and more. Mancelona Moose Lodge will serve wet burritos, and Dairy Delite desserts.
Tuesday, August 44, 2026
Presenter - Evelyn Szpliet, Networks Northwest - Registered apprenticeships play a crucial role in developing and preparing Michigan's future workforce. The earn-and-learn training model helps apprentices develop the right skills in an in-demand career while helping employers build critical talent pipelines with energized, high-value workers. Apprentices have full-time sustainable incomes, education without hefty debt, and receive a national credential once the program is completed. Employers select apprentice participants from within their existing workforce, or through the hiring of new employees. A valuable program for employers and employees in any of more than 100 fields, such as advanced manufacturing, agriculture, construction, education, energy, financial services, healthcare, hospitality, technology, telecom and transportation. Lunch menu is Subway sub sandwiches, chips, desserts.
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Presenter - Fred Goldenberg, Michigan Planners - Understanding Social Security - Retirement and Social Security may feel like distant concerns, but the time to think about them often arrives sooner than expected. Planning ahead and understanding your options can make the process much less complicated. At the chamber, we are often asked, who do I talk to about social security? When and how do I sign up? What happens if I miss the required enrollment deadline? Fred Goldenberg is a Certified Senior Advisor with Michigan Planners, and a frequent workshop speaker across northern Michigan. He will answer these important questions and guide us through the process. Today's menu is the popular fried chicken dinner with all the sides and desserts.