08/01/2026
It’s official!
We stood outside the museum today with our families, thanking them for all the times life got put on hold while working on this dream. You could see the building come to life with little voices and feet running around. Imagination took center stage with the endless possibilities and fun ahead. While there’s still plenty of work to do, today is a reminder of what can happen when a community comes together to invest in its future while honoring the past.
When it came time to take a leap it was all hands on deck, and our local experts really came through. We are incredibly grateful to Upper Peninsula State Bank for jumping on board early to help navigate the financial process. With knowledge and support, Casey and his team were dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s and were instrumental in closing the deal. Longtime realtor Ron Lantange worked alongside both parties keeping the discussions, planning and agreements open, honest and on track. When it came time to take ownership of the building and all the things that go along with that Bruce Movalson of Acrisure Insurance went above and beyond to find the right coverage for this gem of a building and made sure we are securely heading into the future. There were many moments when the work was challenging, but their commitment to the kids and our community always shone through in the end.
The community spirit and giving that has taken place since announcing the former Carnegie Library as the future home for the Dream Maker Children’s Museum is nothing short of amazing. It is just WOW... from the generous donations that poured in at the Elmer's Brat Sale to the individuals and organizations that believed early, and jumped with us putting their support behind the dream. Some choose to remain anonymous and some will be forever embossed on the museum honor wall, each significant and instrumental in bringing the dream to life! (There is a lot to share about this in the future.)
It was magical to watch it all come together! Paul and Marcia Neumeier were wonderful stewards of the building for over 30 years and now we prepare to bring it back into public service! We look forward to celebrating with you all and can’t wait to share the transformation along the way!
Visit dreammakercm.org to learn more!
(Full website to be launched very soon:))
Upper Peninsula State Bank
TV6 & FOX UP
The Daily Press, Escanaba, MI
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