Tucked away in the small town of Greenland lies a building many locals remember well. Sitting right on Plank Street, originally known as Dick’s Dugout and then Beer Belly Bob’s, was a longtime community gathering place. After closing back in 2019, the community staple sat vacant, collecting dust. That is until Angie Foley stepped in.
Unable to deny it’s potential, Angie Foley bought Beer Belly’s back in 2020. It had been a local staple known for its undefeated softball team, trophy-lined walls, live music, and dance floor. People gathered to catch up with friends, enjoy a drink, maybe a meal, and make memories. That rich history was exactly what drew her to the building. She wanted to restore that sense of community this place provided.
“Angie’s on Plank is a business revival project in Greenland, Michigan,” says Foley. “The building already had history in the community, and I saw an opportunity to bring life back into it while creating something that could grow with the area and support tourism, jobs, and community activity.”
Foley is no stranger to the hospitality industry. She also owns and operates the Rousseau Bar in Rousseau, Michigan, just 10 miles east. Originally, her goal was to reopen the restaurant and bar. While that goal still remains, her vision for the space has grown. The building has a full apartment that sits right above the restaurant. Foley is working to transform that space into a short-term rental. Greenland serves as a popular snowmobiling destination, and the additional lodging will help attract more visitors and generate another stream of revenue for the business.
Bringing that vision to life, however, requires significant investment. One challenge that small business owners know all too well is balancing growth with limited resources. Equipment upgrades can be expensive, especially for small rural businesses. Still, they are necessary for efficiency, customer service, food safety, and long-term sustainability. Every investment matters, especially during the early stages.
Through the Small Business Support Hub Program, Foley was able to purchase a new ice machine for the business. While an ice machine may sound simple, dependable equipment allows staff to work more efficiently while providing customers with a better experience.
“Rural businesses often have to stretch every dollar, so grants like this help create momentum and allow owners to focus on growth instead of constantly delaying improvements. It creates opportunities that may otherwise take years longer to accomplish.”
The grant award allowed her to invest in equipment that improves operations without putting financial pressure onto the business.
In addition to creating a welcoming space for customers to enjoy, Foley wants to create a space for other opportunities as well. “I’ve also been exploring educational and workforce development ideas, including ways to involve younger people in hospitality, training, and customer service experience. So now it’s not just about reopening a business, but creating something sustainable that supports the future of the community.” Foley hopes to create opportunities for students to gain real-world experience in hospitality by allowing them to explore the industry while learning in a welcoming, low-pressure environment. “I love working with students, giving them an opportunity to work and get experience”
As you may have realized, Angie’s on Plank is more than just a bar. It’s a place where locals and visitors can gather, relax, and enjoy the Upper Peninsula during any season. It’s a place where history is preserved, new memories are made, and the community is invested in.
“I want local residents to feel like they have a business that invests back into the community and creates opportunities for future generations.”
So, if you’re ever passing through in Greenland or vacationing in the Upper Peninsula, be sure to stop in, grab a drink, and see what makes a true Yooper gathering place.
About the Small Business Support Hub Program
The Small Business Support Hub (SBSH) Program supports small businesses by connecting them with the proper resources to strengthen the regional business ecosystem. Through collaboration with local partners, the program works to help businesses grow, and prosper. The program is funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and reflects a continued investment in small business development and economic growth throughout Michigan.
About MTEC
Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) is one of 21 SmartZones in the State of Michigan. MTEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), its mission is to facilitate the creation and ongoing success of high-tech value propositions in conjunction with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since 2003, the MTEC SmartZone has provided mentoring, technical support, and other services to local companies that have led to the creation of over 800 high-tech jobs in the Houghton and Hancock Michigan area.