In case you missed it, yesterday I was the guest blogger on the Pure Michigan blog. The post promotes one of my favorite fall activities: An M-22 Color Tour.
Check out the Pure Michigan post, Top 10 Reasons for a Fall M-22 Roadtrip.
And for a more details, and a dozen other favorites along Michigan’s scenic highway, read my original article: 22 Reasons for a Fall M-22 Roadtrip.
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Hotels Report a Super Summer. Will it be a Fabulous Fall?
What better gage for summer tourism than the comments of staff at area hotels? I spend much of my time in and out of their lobbies refreshing our Mealtickets displays. This provides a great opportunity to chat with hotel staff about their impressions of the industry, the effectiveness of the Pure Michigan campaign, and their expectations for the upcoming fall season. I thought I’d share what they had to say about the state of Traverse City’s summer tourism.
Whether it’s Weather, or Not
Everyone agrees this summer was one of the warmest and most beautiful summers in recent memory. For some local resorts, it’s the best summer they’ve seen in 10 years, and they haven’t been in business that long. But what effect does the weather have on their occupancy rates? A dramatic effect.
Overall, resorts large and small saw record breaking numbers this summer, and most attribute it to the weather. The summer sun draws visitors to enjoy our beaches and outdoor activities, in part as a retreat from the brutal heat of the larger inland cities.
Rich Maxwell Jr., owner of the Restwood Motel in Traverse City agrees.
“We had one of the best July and August room sales in the last 20 years. We had a modest increase for July and a huge increase for August, (of coarse last August was one of our worst ever). Everyone wants to know WHY well in my humble opinion it was the weather. I think the economy is as bad or worse than last year, but the travelers just wanted to get away from the heat in the big city’s.”
What About the Pure Michigan Campaign?
Many of Michigan’s tourism-based organizations have been supportive of the continued funding of Travel Michigan’s Pure Michigan Campaign including the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association, The Grand Traverse Area Hotel Motel Association and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. After missing fall and winter ad promotions due to lack of funding the campaign received $20 Million just in time for the summer media buys. My question for local hotel managers was, “did it help?”
According to Nick Trahair, general manager at the AmericInn in Traverse City, it did.
“The summer was a record year. Pure Michigan had a lot to do with driving out of state traffic into our hotel. We saw many more out of state plates compared to years past. We also had a lot of people talk about the area – not knowing what Michigan truly offered as many think of Michigan to be “Detroit” and not everything else it had. Many people who were here this summer talked about returning and our fall bookings are ahead of pace from history.”
And he’s not alone. Most hotel managers and staff I spoke with agreed that the Pure Michigan campaign does drive visitors from out of town into our part of the state. Jonathan Pack, general manager at the Cherry Tree Inn, and president of the GTAHMA looks at it this way,
“It’s hard to say the good numbers are from the Pure Michigan ads because we have had such fantastic weather. My honest opinion is that without the Pure Michigan ads, we would be much worse because we wouldn’t see those increases in the markets outside of Detroit.”
What’s interesting about this summer, more than year’s past, are reports from hotels entertaining so many first-time visitors. Some attribute this to the success of the campaign shedding a beautiful light on our region. Others gave credit to family and friends who recommended the Traverse City region as their favorite place to visit. Whether it’s word-of-mouth or advertising dollars at work everyone was glad for the boost in business.
Other Factors Affecting Summer Tourism
While the weather and advertising play a huge role in the number of rooms filled on a summer night, there are a few other interesting factors that came into play this season. Some were short term, and others could reflect a growning trend.
On the short term I was rather surprised to discover we may have inadvertently benefited from the tragedy in the Gulf. While oil spewed with seemingly no end into the waters of the Gulf Coast, visitors who typically spent some of their summer on oceanfront beaches opted for our freshwater coastlines instead. A few properties we work with began receiving calls early this summer looking for condo openings for long stays and cited the spill as their reason for traveling north instead of south this year. While they were pleased to accommodate new visitors, everyone feels for the gulf coast areas who are suffering a business loss from that tragic event, and wishes them a strong and quick recovery.
Forecasting Beyond the Weather
Forecasting is a necessary component of hotel management. And just like the weather it requires a strategic approach, but predictions are often inacurate. Hotels use forecasting to determine expected occupancy rates for the coming season. They translate this information into statistics to plan advertising campaigns, target discounts and to determine staffing.
The surprising trend, which I’ve heard about for the last couple seasons, is that visitors are making their travel plans at the last minute rather than weeks or months in advance. This makes forecasting much more difficult.
Mike Hall, general manager of the Days Inn in Traverse City explains,
“We really saw a shorter period of time from reservations made to actual arrival. Traverse City has historically been an area where advance reservations are the norm. However, this year, especially, we have seen 20-30 room reservations per night on Thursday and Friday nights for Saturday arrival. This has put our forecasting, such as it is, out the window.”
What’s the Outlook for Fall?
As Labor Day represents the unofficial end of summer we turn our heads to fall. Apparently we also turned our backs to the cool winds that have been blowing in low temps to make it feel like October. Which illustrates the point quite well. Fall is all about the weather. If it’s a beautiful indian summer hotels expect to continue to see solid bookings. Many speculate on an early turning of the leaves and thus an early push for fall visitors. But let’s face it, no one knows what’s coming around the corner as far as the weather is concerned.
What the hotels are is optimistic.
“Many people who were here this summer talked about returning and our fall bookings are ahead of pace from history. We expect to continue strong like we have the rest of the year and finish with one of the best years on the books,” said Nick Trahair.
And in case you’re wondering, Mealtickets & Unusal Ideas displays will be there at the front desk waiting for them to arrive.
“Travelers are asking a lot of questions these days – looking for family friendly places to see, do and eat. If we can put something in their hand with information – we have found more interest. When we tell them about someplace and can only show a location on the map – they immediately go back asking questions about what is in front of them,” Trahair added.
So I’ll continue my rounds refilling displays, talking to the hotel staff and providing visitors with great ways to enjoy their trip to Traverse City. Cards in hand.
Parkers in the new Old Town Parking Deck will have to pay to use that facility beginning Wednesday, August 25, 2010. The City of Traverse City, who owns the parking structure, and the Traverse City DDA, the operator, were pleased to open the parking deck early in time for the Traverse City Film Festival. The parking deck was opened prior to installation and activation of all of the pay and parking control systems. Parkers visiting Downtown Traverse City have had the opportunity to use the deck at no charge up to this point.
The 522-space parking structure includes 97 metered spaces on the ground level where parkers prepay at one of two meter pay stations. The rate is $0.60 per hour for up to four hours. Both hourly and permit parkers can use the other three levels. Hourly parkers pull a ticket upon entering and can pay when leaving using either a credit card or cash. A $0.50 hourly rate applies on the upper levels. Just like with the on-street meters, hourly rates are in effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. There is no charge for use at other times.
Open 24 hours, the first level is accessible from the alley that runs between Lake Street and East Eighth Street behind the AT&T store and Brady’s Bar. The upper levels are accessible off of East Eighth Street.
The parking structure includes eighteen state of the art car-charging stations for smart cars and bike parking in the form of bike lockers and covered bike racks on the first floor. Bike lockers may be rented on an hourly or extended period of time through the Auto Parking Services office, located in the Hardy Parking Deck.
Bryan Crough, Executive Director of the DDA, said; “We were pleased to open the parking deck early to help accommodate Traverse City Film Festival patrons. We will have staff at the Old Town Deck on the 25th and 26th to help parkers get used to the two different pay systems.” The pay stations on the first level are the first in Traverse City and allow for more efficient management and enforcement.
About the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority
The Traverse City Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a public agency responsible for economic development in Downtown Traverse City. The DDA runs the City of Traverse City’s parking system, including the Old Town Deck.
Fresh from the Farmer’s Market recipes
I love simple summertime meals and sides that can be made quickly from fresh ingredients you can find at local farm markets and roadside stands. Here are a couple of my summertime favorites. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a super sidedish to take to the next family BBQ these are fantastic.
You’ll notice that some of the recipes have been enhanced by Fustini’s olive oils and balsamic vinegars. I’ve become a loyal fan of their products ever since they opened a store in downtown Traverse City. Now I’m hooked. I’m including these recipes by request from family and friends, so I’d be remiss if I didn’t include the resources for some of the secret ingredients. I hope you try them and enjoy!
Corn & Blueberry Salad
This recipe comes from Better Homes & Gardens. I’ve made it several times this summer with rave reviews. Serve it as a side salad or with a bowl of tortilla chips for quick dipping. Either way it’s a new family favorite.
Ingredients
Directions
1. In Dutch oven bring salted water to boiling. Add corn. Cook, covered, 5 minutes, or until tender. When cool enough to handle, cut corn from cobs.
2. In a serving bowl combine corn, blueberries, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. For dressing, in screw-top jar combine lime juice, oil, honey, cumin, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cover; shake well to combine. Add to salad; toss. Cover and refrigerate overnight (up to 24 hours). Makes 6 to 8 servings.
3. *Hot peppers, such as jalepeños, contain oils that can burn skin and eyes. Wear plastic gloves when working with them. If using bare hands wash well with soap and water.
* My notes: I like to serve this as a salsa, so I dice the cucumbers and separate the corn to make it bit sized. Then I serve it with tortilla chips.
Tortilla Pizzas
These simple pizzas are one of my own creation. They make the best lunch. You could also prep a bunch with different ingredients and serve them as appetizers. They’re healthy, quick and a great way to clear out the fridge. I often change the toppings based on what I have leftover.
Ingredients:
Directions
1. In a small bowl toss the spinach with the olive oil to coat. You may want to brush the edges of the tortilla with oil to help prevent burning as well.
2. Evenly spread the spinach leaves on the tortilla. Top with sliced tomatoes, and any optional ingredients, followed by mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with fresh basil, salt & pepper.
3. Cook on an oven-proof sheet under the broiler for 5 minutes on High, or until cheese begins to bubble and brown. Remove from oven, cool and slice in quarters to serve.
Crystal Margaritas
While I am a loyal Michigan wine fan, I have to admit we love to make frozen margaritas for summer parties. After experimenting with similar recipes we created a custom blend for our favorite spot in the summer: Crystal Lake. Sip carefully…brain freeze is not fun, but these margaritas are.
Ingredients:
Directions
1. Add liquid ingredients to the blender. Fill with ice. Pulse on high until desired consistency. Pour into pitcher. Consistency varies; add more ice to mixture and blend again if necessary.
2. Serve with salted rim or crystal blue sugar
Tequila Sangria
For a twist on sangria, a summertime favorite, try this high-octane punch. But beware, the fruit soaks up much of the spirit so consume with caution. It packs a tasty punch. Adjust the time the fruit soaks to control the strength of the drink versus the fruit.
This recipe comes from Viva Margarita, by W. Park Kerr.
Ingredients:
Directions:
1. Place sliced fruit in a large bowl or pitcher. Add cloves, tequila, brandy, triple sec, lemon juice and lime juice. Stir and chill up to 12 hours. Stir every few hours
2. When ready to serve add sparking ciders and ice. Serve in large tumbler glasses with ice. Be sure each glass includes some of the fruit. Garnish with fresh raspberries before serving.
* My notes: I use 2 bottles of Michigan sparking cider by St. Julian winery, instead of 2 bottles of apple-cranberry cider. I told you, I like my Michigan wines!
Downtown Traverse City Opens the Olde Town Parking Deck in Time for Film Festival
The City broke ground for the Old Town Deck on October 20, 2009 and planned on it being substantially completed in mid September. They are happy to report that the Old Town Parking Deck will now open just in time for a busy August in Downtown Traverse City. The contractor, Colasanti Construction has come close to completion, approximately seven weeks ahead of schedule, and due to some extraordinary efforts, the first floor is set to open for the 6th Annual Traverse City Film Festival.
“We are pleased to at least have the first floor open for the Traverse City Film Festival. With the Old Town Playhouse and Lars Hockstad Auditorium in close proximity, the Old Town Deck will help take some parking pressure off neighborhood streets,” says Rob Bacigalupi, DDA Deputy Director.
CWS Architects are the local Architect and LEED consultant for the project and are pursuing Gold LEED certification. The four level parking deck features a solar panel array on the roof, which will provide all electricity needs for the facility on sunny days. Green roofs are located on the two stair towers and will reduce the volume of storm water entering the sewer system. “We expect that the Old Town Deck will be 40% more energy efficient than a conventional parking deck and are proud of the work that has taken place in the Old Town District,” says Ray Kendra, CWS Architects. The Old Town Deck will also include five car-charging stations and will be able to accommodate up to 20 electrical cars at once. These stations are state-of-the-art and can provide a full charge in two hours.
Planning for the Old Town Deck included parking options for the bike enthusiast. The northwest corner of the building will include eight bike storage lockers and five bikeracks will be located near the southeast corner. Long term or short term rental for the storage lockers are available and will be handled through the Parking Services Department located in the Hardy Parking Deck.
Full occupancy is expected by early August on the 522 space parking deck. Transient (hourly) parking will be provided on all levels. Vehicular entrances can be accessed from Lake and Eight Streets.
For more information, please call the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority at (231) 922-2050 or visit the Downtown website at www.downtowntc.com.
Go Behind the Scenes at 2 Lads Winery on a Public Tour
One of the area’s most unique wineries is now opening their production area for tours. 2 Lads Winery on Old Mission Peninsula will conduct regular public tours every Monday, Thursday and Friday at noon and 3:00pm. Booking is on a first come, first served basis and accommodates up to 10 people.
Cost is $20 per person and includes a vineyard tour (weather permitting), cellar tour and a premium wine and food pairing led by one of the 2 Lads crew in the privacy of our gallery.
Taking a tour of one our area wineries is a great way to expand your knowledge of wine making, and discover what makes each winery, and the wines they produce, so unique. That’s why taking a Behind the Scenes tour is one of my 50 Ways to Love Your Summer.
The 97 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day will fly by before we know it. So I decided to start early and make a list. A list of 50 ways to love my summer. These are some of my favorite ways to enjoy Traverse City and the surrounding area at it’s peak season.
1. Get a barrel of popcorn drizzled in real butter, stretch out on a lawn chair and watch a drive-in movie at the Cherry Bowl in Honor.
2. Enjoy a heaping scoop ice cream at Moomers, while watching the cows graze at sunset. Preferably Chocolate Cookie Monster in a chocolate dipped waffle cone to be exact. But Cherries Moobilee is good too.
3. Attend a student performance at Interlochen Center for the Arts. Collage is a great way to see it all, but I love the high school musicals.
4. Watch the marine traffic come and go while you sip a cocktail on the deck at Scott’s Harbor Grill. Cloaked in a cool breeze at sunset, or enjoying the sun on your shoulders at lunchtime, Scott’s deck is my favorite.
5. Savor a simple homebaked snack. Pick-up a loaf of Pleasanton Bakery‘s parmesan olive bread and savor it in bite-sized pieces torn from the warm loaf. It’s great plain, but I like mine dipped in Fustini’s olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
6. Wrap up the week with an evening at Friday Night Live in downtown Traverse City. Buy a balloon, enjoy live music, have your face painted. A perfect place to be a kid again…or bring one.
7. Discover amazing artists as you tour a local art fair. I never miss the Frankfort art fair in August, but not just for the art. I’m in love with the chicken dinners they cook in the park. Best Chicken EVER!
8. Visit a vineyard and sip the fruits of Old Mission or Leelanau peninsula on a wine tour. On Old Mission I like to start at 2 Lads Winery and work my way back. On Leelanau you better make two trips!
9. Fill a basket with fresh picked fruit straight from the orchard. Stop at a U-Pick farm for a hands-on experience or pull up to a roadside stand and select from nature’s best.
10. Cast a line on the Boardman River for trout or reel in a Lake Michigan salmon on a charter fishing trip. Try Hammerhead in Frankfort or Outta Line in Traverse City.
11. Walk the shores of Lake Michigan and search for petoskey stones and Leland blue stone.
12. Hop on a boat or a jet ski and ride out to where the deep water lives, clear and blue green as far as the eyes can see…and dive in!
13. Eat your fill of fresh sweet corn. Nobody beats Hall’s farm on North Long Lake Road in Traverse City.
14. Ride the train at the old Clinch Park zoo. Let the whistle fill your ears as you absorb the smiles of young and old around you.
15. Visit a lighthouse for an historic trip back in time. Point Betsie near Frankfort is the most photographed, but I’m looking forward to a trip back to South Manitou Island. That is, if I can brave the spiral stairs again.
16. Love fudge–watch it made, cooked in copper and turned on a cold marble slab, at Murdick’s Fudge Shoppe. Peanut butter, you’re calling my name.
17. Take a behind-the-scenes tour. Whether you’re a foodie, a vodka lover or wine geek there’s a tour to be had if you ask. Learn Great Foods will organize one or stop in Grand Traverse Distillery or Bel Lago Winery and they’ll show you the sites.
18. Spend a day at the beach wireless and free, with a book and your favorite beverage.
19. Eat cherries everyday! OK, maybe not everyday, but come on this is cherry country people. Check out The Cherry Stop for dozens of ways to quench your cherry cravings.
20. Make a day trip drive along M-22 from Elberta to Northport and back to Traverse City. Stop to eat, shop and take photos along the way.
21. Grab an early bird dinner at The Manitou Restaurant. No skimping. Start with the skinny dippers and finish with blueberry raspberry pie.
22. Watch the sunset sink below the horizon from a beach towel on the sand.
23. Park and walk a mile to the beach for spectacular Fourth of July fireworks. Come early to dig a pit in the sand for reclined viewing, or bring a cozy chair.
24. Spend a day at the festival. Which one? Readers choice. There’s Cherry Festival, Film Festival, Jazz Festival and a Microbrew and Music Festival, you can’t go wrong.
25. Climb the Sleeping Bear Dunes and run down as fast as your feet can carry you. If you’re not scraping sand from your scalp before bed then you didn’t have enough fun.
26. Dine al fresco on a downtown street and people watch. Umbrella tables at Hanna are popular. If you prefer a water view check out Apache Trout Grill or Knot Just a Bar.
27. Dance in the rain like nobody’s watching – preferably with a child. They’ll wonder what’s got into you.
28. Photograph the everyday special places, people and things in your life. It’s not the parties and holidays that spark nostalgia but the details of summer memories past.
29. Build a bonfire on the beach and make s’mores. Eat until your fingers are sticky, the chocolate is gone and only broken graham crackers remain.
30. Play a sport on the lawn. Badmitten, croquet, bocce or new favorites like ring toss and bean bag games make fun family competitions a must-do for summer.
31. Thump your paddle like Hiawatha on the floor of a Riverside canoe as you navigate the Platte River. When you make it to the mouth spend an hour playing in the current.
32. Make par on a golf course. Mine will have to be mini golf at Pirates Cove, but if you’re up to the challenge of the real deal try Mistwood in Lake Ann. Or help celebrate 25 years at The Bear at the Grand Traverse Resort.
33. Spend a hot day at a cool pool. My kids love the outdoor waterpark at Crystal Mountain. Or you could ride a slide at Fun Country or Pirates Cove.
34. Try a new restaurant – either new to you or new to town. Check out Soul Hole in downtown Traverse City or Mission Table on Old Mission Peninsula.
35. Shop the farmer’s markets, snack from your purchase as you move vendor to vendor in support of local agriculture.
36. Drink riesling. OK, it’s my favorite and I suppose you could choose another wine. But before you decide, try a flight at Uncorked and I know you’ll walk away with one you like. Or just buy the t-shirt at Left Foot Charley and support the riesling movement in theory.
37. Explore the old state hospital grounds inside the Grand Traverse Commons, also known as The Village. Sip wine at Tastes of Black Star Farms, Have an Underground Cheescake on a stick and end up at Stellas for dinner.
38. Watch a movie at The State Theatre in Traverse City or The Garden in Frankfort. Restored classic theatres where the movies are great, and so are the prices.
39. Eat a boom chunka cookie on the patio at Cherry Republic on a trip to Glen Arbor. Stop by Art’s Tavern for a delicious burger. Discover the beautiful jewelry at Becky Thatcher Designs. And for a real treat, dinner at Blu. The best fine dining around.
40. Drink where the locals drink. Grab at pint at Right Brain Brewery among their mug-toting members. Perhaps something with an unusual ingredient like basil or wasabi.
41. Walk the pier to the Frankfort lighthouse, preferably on a foggy evening when the light streams out in rays, or early morning when the anglers are casting and waiting for the bite to begin.
42. Take a slow boat ride along the shore. Get a new perspective of the cottages along the lakeshore. Sailboat, paddleboat or pontoon, whatever works. No boat? How about a ride on the Tall Ship or the Nauticat in Traverse City or a Dunes Cruise in Frankfort.
43. Walk and shop your way through Fishtown in Leland. Pick up some smoked whitefish at Carlsons Fish Market or a pretzel bread sandwich from the Village Cheese Shanty. And for dinner, don’t miss The Bluebird–with my favorite pea & peanut salad.
44. Spend a rainy day at the bowling alley. Wilderness Crossings is the perfect place to entertain the kiddos when the sun is hiding. Bowling, glow golf, arcades and a restaurant for mom and dad.
45. Swim in a river. Let the current pull you along as you try to keep you bottom off the bottom. Relax and drift as the water sweeps your cares away.
46. Bike or walk a beautiful trail. Check out the TART trail in Traverse City or the Betsie Valley Trail that winds from Elberta all the way to Crystal Mountain.
47. Vintage treasures are waiting. Shop for flea market finds or antiques. From the Cherryland Antique Mall and Red Dresser in Traverse City to the Emporium in Beulah, your shabby chic find awaits.
48. Leave footprints in the sand. Take off your shoes and feel the grainy wet sand massage your toes with every step.
49. Read a book on the beach. I look forward to the new Janet Evanovich novel every summer. Need a good local read? Try The Bookstore in Frankfort, Brilliant Books in Suttons Bay or Horizon Books in Traverse City.
50. Take a nap. Lie in a hammock until you drift off with the breeze, stretch out on a beach towel or nod off in an adorondack chair. Rest and relax. It’s summer.
Digging Around in the Lost and FoundHow many times do you check your belongings, dig through suitcases and peruse the room before closing the hotel door on the final day of vacation? If you’re anything like me, about a dozen. And yet, we still leave important items behind.
When I was a child we traveled often on weekends for my father’s business as an event promoter. Late night check-ins and early morning dashes to the van to get back on the road meant we often left essential items behind in our hotel room. Not on purpose of course, but it’s bound to happen when you’re in a hurry, or if you travel often enough.
A recent trip with my dad brought back memories of those excursions. And I started to wonder. What are the most common items hotel guests leave behind when they visit Northern Michigan?
Since I just happen to work with over 60 hotels in the Traverse City area, I thought I’d take a little survey and report the results.
The 5 most common items Northern Michigan hotel guests leave behind
#5 Swim suits
#4 Toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, razors, etc.)
#3 Pillows
#2 Clothes
#1 Cell phone chargers
I’m sure the number one answer comes as no surprise. In fact, cell phone chargers are the number one item left behind in hotels worldwide. A study last year by Holiday Inn and Holiday Express in the UK revealed 42,000 cell phone chargers left behind in their hotels in one year. What’s more surprising is their collective value: nearly $1 million!
Forget the most common items, what’s more entertaining is discovering what area visitors forgot in the closet, stashed in the safe and inexplicably left behind. Our survey of Traverse City area hotels revealed several stories, ranging from the odd to the downright embarrassing. Here’s our list of the top five.
Top 5 Most Unusual Items Hotel Guests Left Behind
#5 Adult toys
As you might expect, underwear and lingerie are often discovered after check-out. And more than a few hotels reported adult toys among the mix. We’ll spare you the EEEW factor and other details. This is a family-friendly website after all.
#4 False teeth
OK, I understand that you have to remove them for cleaning, and could accidentally leave them behind in a glass on the sink or something. But honestly, how do you forget them? And how often do you leave them behind that you can’t remember the last time you had them??
#3 A walker
Discovering a walker accidently misplaced, or folded neatly in the closet may not be all that unexpected. But finding one sitting in the parking lot at the center of a handicapped space gives it a ranking on my strange-o-meter. As Alanis says, “isn’t it ironic?”
#2 A police-issue 9mm handgun
Placed in the safe for security it was left behind. Unfortunately for the officer, that’s a big no-no. The hotel reported it and the officer got in big trouble with the department.
#1 Cremated urn of ashes
This one I just can’t paraphrase. An anonymous hotel found, “An urn of cremated ashes, yes of a person. When contacted the son said ‘throw him in the dumpster’. We tracked down a daughter who was happy to accept.” Strangely enough that same survey respondant also listed “human leg and hip bones from a doctor who does replacement surgeries.” Truth is stranger than fiction.
It seems to me, we have all need to spend a few extra minutes packing and double-checking before we leave behind something essential…or embarassing.
On that note I’ve created this handy Mealtickets Vacation Checklist to aid in your travel packing.
Click here to download our packing checklist for your next trip.
Staple it inside your suitcase, tuck it in your purse or duct tape it to your tailgate if you have to. Whatever works for you.
Have a great Up North Michigan vacation this summer. And may you, and your belongings, make it home safely.
Get Your ‘Fish On’ this Weekend
Fishing is a great way to enjoy the beautiful lakes and rivers up North. And this weekend, June 12-13, there’s no fee to fish. Michigan residents and out-of-town visitors can enjoy 2 days of fee-free fishing for all species. Fishing regulations still apply, but there is no license required thanks to the Department of Natural Resources Free Fishing Weekend. Twice a year the DNR offers free fishing weekends to encourage everyone to pick up a rod and cast for the “big one”.
So whether you’re camping and want to cast a line with the kids, or you prefer to hop aboard a charter for some big lake action, this is the perfect weekend to get the fishing bug. I say, “Fish On!”
A Day of Celebration for one Fabulous, Famous Cow
In the 1920s the star resident of the State Hospital in Traverse City was none other than a prize heifer named Colantha. At the time, the average milk production for a dairy cow was just under 4,000 lbs. And then along came a cow named Colantha whose record production in 1926 was 22,918 lbs in one year!
She was so revered by the residents and staff that upon her death a huge party was held in her honor and a special headstone carved in her memory. Now, with a new community developing at the Village, they want to bring that celebratory spirit back in her honor.
The first annual Colatha Walker Dairy Festival will take place on Sunday, June 13th in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Celebrate the famous cow with fun, food and special events in her honor.
Festival Schedule
10am-Noon Pancake Breakfast
10am-3pm Farmers Market
10am-7pm Food, Art & Merch Vendors
Noon-1pm Public Parade to Colantha’s Headstone @ Barns
1pm-7pm Live Music (Sister Wilene et al)
2pm-3:30pm Great Grilled Cheese Grill-off
5pm-7pm Street Dance
There will also be Food Demonstrations, Wagon Rides, Kid’s Activities, Wine & Cheese Pairings along with Milk & Cookie Pairings for the kids, thoughout the day!
For more details, check out www.thevillagetc.com.
Enjoy the Dunes Fee-Free on National Trails DayDid you know there are several fee-free dates each year at over 100 National Parks? It just so happens this weekend is one of them. So there’s no better time to get out and explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
2010 Fee Free Days
Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tour, concession, and fees collected by thrid parties are not included unless stated otherwise.
My son’s class took a field trip last week to see a beaver lodge located inside the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, near Otter Creek. We first stopped at the visitor’s center to learn about the Park and explore the exhibits. If you haven’t been to the Sleeping Bear Dunes visitor’s center in Empire I’d highly recommend it, whether you’re a first time park visitor or a regular. They have wonderful books for sale about northern Michigan wildlife, wildflowers and even tips on hunting morels. And their exhibits include examples of the trees, flowers and animals that call Sleeping Bear home. Take the time to watch their movie presentation if you have a chance. It’s full of stunning photography of this beautiful landscape in every season.
I hope you’ll take advantage of a fee-free day this year and explore the beauty in our backyard.
City Opera House Introduces the 2010-2011 Performing Arts Series
The historic City Opera House is celebrating a new season of performing arts entertainment with a FREE community open house on Sunday, June 6th from 11am to 3pm.
The 2010-2011 Auto-Owners Insurance Performing Arts Series will be highlighted during the event. There will be ticket giveaways, family fun activities including face painting, balloon animals and even a caricaturist.
Meet the staff and board of directors, pick up a copy of the new performing arts series brochure, take a tour and “test drive” seats – all while enjoying light refreshments generously donated by Morsels Bite-Sized Bakery + Gourmet Coffee, Trattoria Stella and Elk Rapids Sweet Shop.
For more information please visit cityoperahouse.org or call 231.941.8082 for more details.
Summer season begins June 1st for Frankfort boat cruise companyFor those of you who’ve been waiting since last fall for a trip along the Lake Michigan shore, the wait is over. Sleeping Bear Dunes Boat Cruises is open for the season. Daily tours along the shoreline from Frankfort to the National Lakeshore in Empire began today for the cruise company in it’s second season.
Over the winter a new boat, “Lady Michigan,” has been under construction in Alabama. With a delay in the arrival of the new boat, the Upper Peninsula company sent another beautiful ship, “Pictured Rocks” to start off the season.
For the early part of June the daily schedule includes one trip at 11am. The beautiful sunset cruises will be added to the schedule on June 18th.
If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the Dunes this year I hope you’ll check out Sleeping Bear Dunes Boat Cruise. For a map to their location in Frankfort view their listing on our Attractions page. To reserve your spot on one of their daily sails call 888.469.4696. Visit their website at www.sleepingbeardunescruise.com for more schedule information and pricing details.
Photo by Jay Burt, Walk Softly Photos.
“Putting for Patriots” Event at Pirates Cove
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, in Traverse City, Michigan will host the Fourth Annual “Putting for Patriots” fundraiser from Saturday, May 15 through Monday, May 31. This national event will occur simultaneously at 36 Pirate’s Cove, Pirate’s Island and Jungle Golf miniature golf courses throughout the United States.
This May event will culminate on Memorial Day weekend and support three charities, which serve our wounded, their families and survivors of the fallen. These organizations include: “Hope For The Warriors”, “Homes for Our Troops” and “TAPS—Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors.” Pirate’s Cove, Jungle Golf and Pirate’s Island will donate a percentage of their total sales on Sunday, May 30. In addition, from May 14 through May 31, each golf course will accept donations to be turned over to the three charities. Since its inception, this event has raised over $57,000.
“Memorial Day was specifically founded to remember those who died serving our nation,” notes Brad Graft, Pirate’s Cove Partner and Regional Director. “The Pirate’s Cove / Pirate’s Island family thought it appropriate to establish an annual event to serve charities that assist our living veterans and the survivors of fallen military members. These are men and women who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.”
Pirate’s Cove and Pirate’s Island operate 36 miniature golf courses throughout the United States. For more information, visit their Web sites at www.piratescove.com, www.piratesislandgolf.com, and www.junglegolfminigolf.com . Additional information on the above charities can be found by accessing their Web sites: www.hopeforthewarriors.org, www.homesforourtroops.org and www.taps.org.
The beverage business is booming in Michigan. And everyone from visitors to lodging personnel to locals wants to keep up with what’s new in the world of wine, beer and spirits in Northern Michigan. So here are some highlights from our customers in the industry.
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Right Brain Brewery90 lbs of asparagus were grilled and turned into what has become a springtime favorite at RBB: Empire Spear Beer. Don’t worry if you missed it at the Empire Asparagus Festival, it’s on tap at the brewery. And for all the gluten-free customers out there it’s time to send up a cheer for the first ever gluten-free beer at RBB. “Katy Bar the Door” is an ode to the Red Wings #1 gluten allergy advocate, Mickey Redman. It’s made with roasted chestnuts, local honey, and 100% local hops.
Black Star FarmsJust fresh from bottling is the ’09 Riesling at Black Star Farms. The winemakers notes will tell you, “This wine presents classic Riesling aromas of delicate white flowers and stone fruit. Ripe flavors of citrus, peach and apple follow on the palate. It is a lovely off-dry medium bodied white wine.” And if you’re looking for a great date night or fun place to meet up with friends, why not check out the Matterhorn Grill at Tastes of Black Star Farms inside the Mercado at The Village. Sit around a miniature grill dining on melted Raclette, meats and veggies will sipping something tasty. Yum.
Bel Lago Vineyard & WineryBel Lago Winery’s 2007 Semi-Dry Riesling has been judged BEST WHITE WINE at the 2010 Pacific
Rim International Wine Competition, held in San Bernardino, CA. Bel Lago 2007 Semi-Dry Riesling won a Gold Medal and the Best of Class award for Off-Dry Riesling, and then competed against all the other Best of Class White Wine varietal winners, and was judged Best White Wine overall. Stop by their tasting room across from beautiful Lake Leelanau and taste for yourself. Congratulations Bel Lago.
Left Foot CharleyDespite a challenging ’09 growing season Bryan has pulled together an interesting vintage from their fruits of last year. The ’09 Pinot Blanc is from Island View Vineyard on Old Mission Peninsula. In his own words, “Island View came through again in the tough ’09 vintage. We made the crew sort the grapes into golden and green clusters then the two lots were pressed and fermented individually and carefully blended back together to form this complex bright dry wine. Great apple notes with a striking citrus finish. Very limited production – you snooze you lose.” Also check out their Sparking Hard Apple Cider and The Cobbler; a double fermented cider with a cinnamon flavor. Try it served ala mode with Moomers ice cream on the side.
2 Lads WineryBring on the bubbly. Two Lads is ready to release their 2002 vintage bubbly. “The 2002 Dry Sparkling Wine has been in the cellar doing extended aging en tirage (on the lees). This June will be the last time you will be able to purchase and enjoy this rare and spectacular gem. A non-traditional blend exhibiting an exotic, vibrant bouquet and a seductive mouth feel. When released, this wine will have seen seven years en tirage and is exemplary of Northern Michigan’s potential to be the United States’ preeminent sparkling wine region.” With less than 500 bottles left in the cage there’s no time to waste in making a trip up to 2 Lads for a bottle.
Peninsula CellarsIn case you missed it, Peninsula Cellars was among several local wineries who made the B-list according to a recent article in Food & Wine magazine. The article certainly reinforced the fact that you can’t judge a winery by it’s apparent size or location on a map. And it highlighted one of my family’s favorite easy-drinking reds; Detention. Speaking of easy-drinking, don’t leave this little schoolhouse without a bottle of Homework, their Pinot Noir Rose.
Grand Traverse DistilleryIf you haven’t been out to visit the George and Kent now’s the time. At their production facility they’ve expanded the tasting room area to accommodate all the new visitors we’re sending their way. You’ll also find some new spirits that will hopefully raise yours. Check out Ole George Whiskey, 100% Rye whiskey now available in the tasting room. I also discoverd a limited bottling of Chocolate Vodka. Sounds like cocktail hour is going to get crazy this summer at Grand Traverse Distillery.
Uncorked Wine BarIf you’ve stepped inside the Cherry Stop lately you can’t miss what’s going on with Uncorked. In order to create two separate spaces for visitors to enjoy they are remodeling and moving the wine bar up front. When they’re finished with the upgrade customers there to visit Uncorked will come in a separate entrance that leads straight to the bar, located under a pergola inside the building. The seating and beautiful Grand Traverse Bay views are still in the back. And plans for another Meet the Winemaker event in June are in the works. So stop in for a sample or pick up a bottle of your favorite local wine while you’re shopping downtown Traverse City.
One of the best ways to enjoy summer in Michigan is spending an afternoon at a Wine Festival, or Beer Festival or a combination thereof. So here’s a list of some of the upcoming festivals in Northern Michigan and throughout the state.
May 21-22 | World Expo of Beer, Frankenmuth, Michigan
May 29 | Michigan Beer & Brat Festival, Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan
June 12 | Leland Wine & Food Festival, Leland, Michigan
June 26-27 | Michigan Wine & Brew Festival, Michigan International Speedway, Brooklyn, Michigan
July 23-24 | Michigan Summer Beer Festival, Ypsilanti, Michigan
August 6 | Old Mission Peninsula Wine & Food Celebration, Bowers Harbor Park on Old Mission, Traverse City, Michigan
August 14 | Leelanau Peninsula Wine & Food Festival, Northport, Michigan
August 21 | Traverse City Wine & Food Festival, The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City, Michigan
August 27-28 | Traverse City Summer Microbrew & Music Festival, The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City, Michigan
Get Your Art Fix at the Traverse City Art Walk
The Downtown Traverse City Association will host the spring Downtown Art Walk, sponsored by ABC 29&8 and WTCM on Friday, May 7, from 5 – 9 pm. The public is invited to enjoy an evening of art, refreshments, food and music. Artists from the Traverse City region and beyond will feature their works at exhibits throughout Downtown Traverse City. Visit participating locations and check out the amazing art scene from oil paintings and photography to glass bead making and fine wood furniture along Front St., Cass and the Warehouse District. New participant this year includes the artist co-op, Artisan Design Network where approximately 30 local artists have their work on display.
The DTCA will again offer an opportunity to create public art at the Downtown Art Walk. The public art project will be hosted by the Traverse City ArtCenter and feature small tiles to be painted by the public. The tiles will then create a large mural that will be installed on the side of Ace Hardware on W. Front St.
Refreshments will be offered at various locations throughout the evening. Purchase a commemorative wine glass and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Downtown Public Art projects. Participating galleries will also be offering prize drawings throughout the evening. Walking maps will be available at each participating gallery and the Downtown Traverse City office. For more information call 231.922.2050 or visit www.downtowntc.com.
Artwork shown here is “Franklinia” by Amy Kerr Hardin. You can find her work on display during the Art Walk at Gallery Fifty in Downtown Traverse City.
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Do You Have Your Ticket to Summer Entertainment Fun Yet?
Hot off the presses, and in Mealtickets displays this week, are the new cards for the Interlochen Summer Arts Festival. You’ve probably already seen their large program, but you can’t beat the convenience of our little cards. They’re a perfect pocket-sized schedule of Interlochen’s concert lineup.
Pick up an Interlochen card today at area hotels other display locations. And order your tickets to one of the Traverse area’s oldest and most creative arts institutions. Order tickets online at www.tickets.interlochen.org
2010 Summer Arts Festival
Love Michigan Wines, Then You’ll Love Uncorked!
Did you know that Downtown Traverse City has a wine bar dedicated to promoting Michigan wine, beer and spirits? Uncorked, a Northern Michigan Wine Bar is located on Front Street and you may not have known it was there. That’s because it’s inside The Cherry Stop. And it’s home to an amazing opportunity for you to unwind, unplug and sip on some fabulous cocktails.
There is no where else in Traverse City you can step up to the bar and order a flight of riesling for a side-by-side taste test, and be able to walk out the door with a bottle of your favorite label. Whether you want to order a wine sample, sip on a Michigan microbrew draft, or savor a cocktail made from local spirits, the options are endless at Uncorked.
The Cherry Stop has been with Mealtickets from the day we opened for business. And we’re very excited to welcome another great idea from Nick and Jamie Roster into Mealtickets service. Stop in for a glass, sign up for one of their Meet the Winemaker events or enjoy happy hour. And tell them we said hello!
In the Heart of Traverse City you’ll find the Soul of the South
The latest bright spot on Union Street is the opening of the Soul Hole restaurant in the former Radish location. Open for only a few days they’ve already had a steady stream of customers enjoying the sweet and savory flavors from the kitchen of chef Ralph Humes.
Eclectic southern cuisine is the specialty here. Favorites from the south like Chicken and Waffles, Shrimp and Grits and Po-boys are on the menu. They’re making the best of their cozy quarters with dine in and carry-out available for lunch and dinner. And this is one place you don’t want to skip dessert. Before opening Soul Hole, chef Ralph was known for his Sweet Alchemy desserts which will remain on the menu here.
Mealtickets is proud to Welcome Soul Hole to our advertising family. We hope you’ll stop in and enjoy their contemporary atmosphere, cool jazz music and sweet southern hospitality. It never hurts to tell them we sent you either!