Fortis team resets the Big Fish
We were happy to donate our equipment and services to this project. We are committed to helping our town improve its quality of life and achieve its new vision. - Mike Newman, Northeast Regional Sales Manager of Fortis Energy Services.
Bloomfield Hills, MI (PRWEB) August 15, 2013
Officially known as the National Trout Memorial, the monument is locally referred to as the Fisherman’s Shine or just the Big Fish. However, whatever name you ascribe to it, the fountain has served as the symbol and centerpiece of Kalkaska since 1966.
The renovation of the fountain has particular significance for many in Kalkaska because its restoration is a symbol for the revitalization of the town itself. “We were happy to donate our equipment and services to this project,” states Mike Newman, Northeast Regional Sales Manager of Fortis Energy Services. “We are committed to helping our town improve its quality of life and achieve its new vision.”
Village officials have been pursuing a new vision for the community. They have adopted a master plan and have obtained rights to buildings and properties on Cedar Street. They are pursuing what they call the Main Street Renaissance 300 Block Development project, which calls for a mixed-use development to remake the central downtown block. The district has suffered economic set- backs in recent years with the closing of many local businesses and is now at a turning point.
Focusing on the M-66 and U.S. 131 intersection, the city envisions a vibrant downtown shopping district on Cedar Street with spaces designed for picnics, a farmer’s market, and concerts. Instead of passing through town, travelers will be enticed to stop and enjoy a local beer at the brew pub, shop at a variety of interesting boutiques, and of course visit the trout statue.
The plan is part of a long-term revitalization strategy for the downtown that includes a brown field redevelopment plan, a store-front corridor remake, and a comprehensive strategy to recruit investors and developers.
Cathy Zech, Controller of Fortis Energy Services explains, “It was an act of love to restore this fountain. My brother, David Comai owns Howard’s which is an automotive body repair and towing business. My father started that business back in the 1970’s. David is a skilled auto painter and has done a masterful job of repainting the sculpture. The detail is remarkable. He spent months bringing this rainbow trout back to life!”
Commenting on the community nature of the project, Zech also stated “This project brought many people in the community together. Sean Dupuie did an outstanding job on the stone masonry on the statue’s tiered bases and side podiums. Klumpp’s Flower Shop and Nursery donated a couple of trees and another company donated the hydro seeding. It was truly a community effort. I was very proud that my company Fortis Energy Services played a major role.”
About Fortis Energy Services, Inc.
Fortis Energy Services, Inc. is a leading oil and gas service company in the USA. Quality people and quality work contribute to Fortis’ exceptional success rate. A well-maintained fleet combined with highly experienced professionals has enabled Fortis to establish strong customer relationships and an excellent safety record. Our company slogan is “Our Strength is in Our Service”.
Headquartered in Michigan, we offer services throughout the Midwest and Northeastern states including: Michigan, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, New York, Indiana, and Illinois.