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Traverse City Wine & Art Festival

Traverse City Wine & Art Festival

First annual Traverse City Wine & Art Festival at The Village

 

After years of watching the wine festivals in Leland and Northport swell to numbers that can barely be contained by the tents overhead, there is finally a festival right here in Traverse City. Saturday, August 22nd the Traverse City Wine & Art Festival will be held on the grounds outside Building 50 at The Village.

The festival features wines from 22 area wineries, from both Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas. And unlike other wine festivals, which operate primarily as tasting events, attendees will receive 2 full glass pours with the $20 ticket. Additional drink tickets are available for $4.

 

The event also includes a juried art show, live music from Thom Jayne and the Nomads, as well as food from Underground Cheesecake, Bourbon 72, Silvertree Deli and Maybings.

 

Tickets are $20 and are available through participating wineries or purchase online through the LPVA. For more details about the festival visit their website at www.traversecitywinefestival.com.

 

New Tuskegee Airmen Sculpture, Michigan Legacy Art Park

Fallen Comrade sculpture by David GreenwoodFallen Comrade sculpture dedication at Michigan Legacy Art Park at Crystal Mountain Resort

 

Stop by the Michigan Legacy Art Park, located on the grounds of Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, on August 14th at 2pm for the dedication of the Art Park’s latest addition: Fallen Comrade by artist David Greenwood. The dramatic sculpture is inspired by the P-51 flown by the heroic Tuskegee airmen during World War II.

The Legacy Awards Gala will follow the dedication at 6pm. The evening includes a silent auction, dinner and cash bar. The Legacy Award will be presented to the Tuskegee Airmen nationwide, with special attention for those in attendance.

Special lodging packages for those attending the gala are available. Contact Crystal Mountain reservations at 800-968-7686 ext. 5100 for more information.

 

Michigan Legacy Art Park one of the places on my Up North Summer To-Do List. Now there will be one more amazing sculpture to check out this year. And another reminder for me that summer is flying by and I still have a lot of To-Do items to accomplish.

 

By |2019-12-30T13:43:32-05:00August 8th, 2009|Art Scene, Attractions, Benzie, Check This Out|0 Comments

Traverse City Film Festival Opens with Street Party

Traverse City Film Festival imageTraverse City Film Festival Opens

Tuesday, July 28 from 5-9 PM there will be a Traverse City Film Festival Opening Kick Off Street Party on Front Street between Park and Union Street in Downtown Traverse City.

The event is free and features amazing balloon sculptures by New York artist Jason Hackenwerth, music by Charlie’s Root Fusion and Rojo Loco, and a 6 p.m. opening ceremony with Michael Moore, honoring 2009 Michigan Filmmaker Award Recipient Rich Brauer.

 

The 5th Annual Traverse City Film Festival runs from July 28th through August 2nd. There are still tickets available, click here to purchase online. And don’t forget about the free movies each night in the Open Space. For more details and information on the festival visit their website at www.traversecityfilmfest.org.

 

Looking for a break from the downtown action, check out Left Foot Charley & the Vino Factory in The Village on July 31st from 6-9pm. Tickets are $20 and include special food & wine pairings, exclusive winery tours and, of course, golden tickets. Call Left Foot Charley at 231.995.0500 to reserve a spot today.

Sleeping Bear Dunes Boat Tours

Notice: This attraction is no longer in business. For a boat tour that does operate inside Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore we suggest taking the Manitou Island Transit.

Original post >>

See the Dunes from a new perspective

The Sleeping Bear Dunes and the National Lakeshore are still the number one reason visitors flock to this area in the summer. Now there’s a whole new way to appreciate them; from the water.

 

The Sleeping Bear Dunes Cruise opened their doors this month in Frankfort to a warm welcome. After rumors of their arrival as early as last fall I was anxious to see this business arrive in town from their home in the Upper Peninsula. I stopped by their office this week to learn more about it.

The Miner’s Castle is docked on the Betsie Bay in the heart of Frankfort, Michigan. Across the street, about a block from the docks in the old Firestone building, is the office where passengers check in.

The narrated tour of the coastline takes you from Betsie Bay in Frankfort, past the well known Point Betsie Lighthouse, the mouth of the Platte River and up to the Scenic Overlook in Empire. Along the 2 hour and 45 minute trip you’ll learn about the Legend of Sleeping Bear, and experience this unique geological area from a different point of view. The captain entertains the passengers with tales of shipwrecks and even murder in a small community by the shore. Meanwhile, panoramic views abound as you cruise a quarter mile from the ever changing shoreline.

Passengers travel in comfort on the Miner’s Castle, no matter the weather. Sit inside the enclosed cabin, or enjoy the breeze on the deck or second-tier seating above the cabin. Restrooms are available, as are snacks and sodas, but no alcohol is allowed. Right now they are not licensed to serve alcohol on board. You can however bring a lunch. In fact, Crescent Bakery, a local restaurant, has created a special menu for cruise passengers and will deliver right to the boat.

Looking for a new way to appreciate the Sleeping Bear Dunes? Then check out the Sleeping Bear Dunes Cruise in Frankfort. They sail daily from June through October. There is a 2pm sail, and a sunset sail starting at 7pm in July. Group rates and private charters are available for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats and more.

Traveling with your pets? Sleeping Bear Dunes Cruise will kennel them for FREE while you sail! No more worries about leaving them home or waiting in a hot vehicle.

 

By |2021-06-22T15:17:52-04:00June 25th, 2009|Attractions, Benzie, Check This Out|2 Comments

Stay in Style at the Wellington Inn

Wellington Inn carriage houseCharming Carriage House still has Room at the Inn

When I roam around the county filling displays at hotels, motels, resorts and wineries I try to take a moment and chat with the owners and staff. I stopped this week at the Wellington Inn in Traverse City and was surprised to learn that there was still room available in the carriage house this summer. Since I’ve never taken a tour of the property I asked Barb if she’d mind showing me around.

 

The carriage house was the first building to be renovated when Barb and Hank Richel purchased the Inn in 1999. The care and attention to detail of the property is evident everywhere you look. From the well maintained exterior to the antiquities it holds, the carriage house, and the Inn next door, is a perfect Traverse City getaway.

 

Wellington Inn carriage house imageWellington Inn carriage house imageWellington Inn carriage house image

Wellington Inn guest notes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are two apartments located on the upper level of this former barn. Even as we entered the stairwell I couldn’t help but enjoy the collision of past and present. An antique original wallpaper mural guides us to the stairway and the apartments above. We opened the door to the first and walked into a casual comfortable place. The decor is French Country. Our view roamed from the tiny, but full-service period kitchen, to the living space and bright windows. There are two bedrooms which share one bath in this apartment. Each beautifully decorated with an attention to detail and nod to history and comfort. Guests leave their thanks and compliments in a notebook on the dresser for future dwellers to enjoy.

 

 

Wellington Inn carriage house imageWellington Inn carriage house imageWellington Inn carriage house imageWellington Inn carriage house

 

 

 

 

 

 

The second apartment is slightly larger, with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. The light from the windows pours into the room and illuminates the Rishel’s attention to detail. Art Deco decor can be found throughout, from the fixtures to the artwork. And the condition of the pieces is amazing. The stamped velvet couch is vintage 1930s and it’s the origianal covering. The rooms are filled with antiques, many of which have been lovingly restored by Barb and Hank.

 

The Wellington Inn Bed & Breakfast is located in the heart of Traverse City. Guests are within walking distance of shopping, dining, galleries, the State Theater and of course, Grand Traverse Bay. Whether you stay in grand elegance at the historic 1905 Inn, or in pristine comfort at the carriage house, The Wellington Inn will not disappoint.

I doubt these apartments will last long, so contact The Wellington Inn today while there’s still room this summer. For more information on the Wellington Inn visit their website at www.wellingtoninn.com or give Barb a call at 877-968-9900.

By |2020-01-06T13:07:40-05:00June 10th, 2009|Check This Out, Lodging, Traverse City|0 Comments

Golden Performance by Michigan Rose Wines

Forty-Five North Pinot Noir RoseThe Gold Rush is back and invigorating the wine industry on the 45th Parallel.

 

Rose wines are growing in popularity and respect among wine drinkers and judges alike. Several recent Gold medals are proof positive that Michigan Rosé is here to stay.

MichWine.com, an independent consumer guide to the Michigan wine industry, conducted a review of 11 rosé wines from throughout the state. The top performers were the 2008 Forty-Five North Pinot Noir Rosé, 2008 Tabor Hill Cabernet Franc Rosé, and 2008 2 Lads Cabernet Franc Rosé.

This is not the first time local Rosé wines have risen to the top of their peers. The Forty-Five North Pinot Noir Rosé was awarded Best of Class at the 2008 Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. Without a separate category for Rosé wines, Forty-Five North’s Rosé competed against 954 other reds and came in just shy of the Grand Champion. The judges were so impressed they created the special award for Best of Class.

 

Did you know:  The pink or orange hues of a Rosé wine come from the short period of time that the juice is left to ferment on the skins, where the color resides. Winemakers will “bleed-off” the juice to make Rosé, while the remaining skins are left to help produce a deeper, richer colored red wine.

So next time you’re in Michigan wine country, don’t overlook the Rosé…the fairer red wine.

By |2020-01-06T13:09:57-05:00June 8th, 2009|Check This Out, Leelanau, Traverse City, Wineries|0 Comments

Hometown Highlights: Spartan Flag Company

hometown highlights Spartan Flag Company graphic

Hometown Highlights: Spartan Flag Company

Spartan Flag Company flag imageDid you know, the majority of the world’s golf flags are made in Northport, Michigan? I had no idea. That is, until I had the chance to get a tour of the Spartan Flag Company, in beautiful Northport, Michigan. It was there I came to see why the golf industry has grown to depend on the craftsmanship of this hometown family business.

If you’re a golfer you may have heard of a company called Standard Golf. They supply over 75% of the world’s golf courses with quality nylon golf flags. And their exclusive manufacturer is the Spartan Flag Company, located at the tip of the Leelanau peninsula.
A small business, in a very small town, the Spartan Flag Company is a family operation dedicated to producing quality products. With only 10 employees, most of whom share the Kilcherman name, 18 sewing stations and countless bolts of colorful nylon, they create flags which last a lifetime. Casey Kilcherman, president of Spartan Flag Company, is a third-generation family owner. She purchased the business 5 years ago from her aunt in order to keep the company in the family. “I wanted to make sure my father and brothers would always have a home here at Spartan Flag,” said Casey.
Carnie Kilcherman imageMy tour guide for the day was Carnie Kilcherman. Like a proud mother she welcomed me to her home-away-from-home. And it’s no wonder she feels this way. Her daughter is the president, and her husband and three sons were working away behind the scenes.
The Spartan Flag Company is located in an unassuming building right in the entrance to the village of Northport. If you’ve followed M-22 to Northport, you’ve probably driven past without noticing. It’s here in Leelanau County that all of their flags are made. The room we first entered was longer and narrower than an average two-car garage, but filled with sewing stations, cutting tables, and boxes of flags in various stages of production. Carnie ushered me to a small station along the wall where she spent the morning working on black and gold checkered flags. I came to learn that every flag produced by Spartan Flag Company is machine-stitched in a process called applique. Pieces of fabric are cut to size and sewn onto a larger piece of fabric. Or, in the case of the checkered flag, several pieces are sewn together to create one large flag. This requires attention to detail and precision. And it’s the reason Spartan Flag Company flags will last a lifetime.
Spartan Flag Company imageMuch like other manufacturing facilities there were several jobs in progress, at various stages of design, and everyone was busy. We visited with her sons, who were packing boxes for shipping, and Carnie’s husband Dave who fills in wherever he’s needed. There were four sewing stations stitching with expert care, and speed that I couldn’t muster on my best day.
While there were many golf flags, ranging in colors and design, the Spartan Flag Company also creates banners, pennants and International Shipmasters’ Burgees (maritime flags). Their craftsmanship has been utilized by schools throughout the area to create marching band flags, school banners and seasonally to decorate light pole flags in the Village.
Spartan Flag Company imageOne thing I didn’t see on my tour was a computer system for creating templates or custom designs. That’s because they don’t have one. “All of our designs are drawn by hand,” explained Pino. When a customer brings in a family crest, or wants a custom banner, they work with an artist who translates their designs into flag templates using only a pencil, paper and practiced skill. That’s craftsmanship you don’t see everyday.
Here are a few more interesting facts I learned on my visit to the Spartan Flag Company:
  • The secret to the longevity of their sewn flags: new waxed thread. While it makes a mess of the machines, it produces a longer-lasting stitch
  • One of the most intricate banners was created for a wedding and covered with roses
  • Most notable golf flags were created for a special golf tournament with President Bill Clinton
  • Standard Golf holds a patent on the plastic part of the flag which attaches to the pole; one of the reasons they hold the corner on the golf flag market
  • At one time or another nearly every member of the Kilcherman family has worked for the flag company

 

Spartan Flag Company imageThe Spartan Flag Company has been sewing flags, pennants and banners since 1950. If you’re in the market for a new flag for the cottage, or perhaps a nautical flag for that new boat, give Casey a call. They are also a great resource for American flags. While not made in-house, they will guarantee that your American flag was made in the U.S.A. To contact the Spartan Flag Company call 231.386.5150 or visit the Spartan Flag Company website.

Traverse City Golf Center Demo Day

Doug Lichty golf pro imageTest new equipment at the All Vendor Demo Day on Saturday May 30th

 

The Traverse City Golf Center is hosting their annual All Vendor Golf Club Demo Day this Saturday. Stop in from 11am – 4pm to try new 2009 equipment from the best manufacturers in golf. Representatives from Callaway, Taylor Made, Titlist, Cobra, Bridgestone, Ping, Adams, Cleveland, and Mizuno will be on-site to answer all your questions and handle custom fits. Hot dogs, brats and refreshments will be available, along with special event pricing.

 

The Traverse City Golf Center offers a fabulous selection of golf equipment and services including clubs, bags, golf balls, clothing and accessories. Hone your skills on their outdoor driving range and chipping green. Check out the golf simulators where you can play famous courses from around the country. Or improve your swing with a few lessons from PGA golf professional and owner, Doug Lichty.

 

Traverse City Golf Center sign imageFor more details on the products and services at Traverse City Golf Center, check out their website at www.tcgolfcenter.com. Or call the pro shop at 231.947.1185. The Traverse City Golf Center is located on Secor Rd in Traverse City. You can find a detailed map on our Attractions page.

Find us on Facebook

 Mealtickets Facebook screenshotYou can now find Mealtickets & Unusual Ideas on Facebook!

 

Yes, it’s true, we have a fledgling presence on Facebook, the popular social networking site. It’s been on my to-do list for a while now and I decided it was time to take the leap.

Our blog here on www.mealtickets.com has become a great place to post news and events, relating to our advertisers, and the area as a whole. On Facebook I hope to have the chance to interact a bit more with you, our readers. We’ll post photos, updates on events and gather information so we can make our service better for all our customers.

 

So Find us on Facebook and become a Fan of Traverse Area Mealtickets & Unusual Ideas. Better yet, send us some feedback, join a discussion and have fun! I’ll see you there!

By |2020-01-06T13:20:13-05:00May 27th, 2009|Check This Out, Mealtickets News|0 Comments

Putting for Patriots at Pirates Cove

Putting for Patriots graphic Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, in Traverse City, Michigan, will host the Third Annual “Putting for Patriots” fundraiser on Sunday, May 24, 2009. This national event will occur simultaneously at 35 Pirate’s Cove, Pirate’s Island and Jungle Golf miniature golf courses throughout the United States.

Three non-profit agencies, who actively support and serve veterans, will be the beneficiaries during this Memorial Day Weekend event.  These organizations include: “Hope for the Warriors”, the “Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation” and “Homes for Our Troops.”  Pirate’s Cove, Jungle Golf and Pirate’s Island will donate a percentage of their total sales on Sunday, May 24.

In addition, throughout the entire holiday weekend, each golf course will accept donations to be turned over to the three charities.  “Memorial Day was specifically founded 140 years ago to remember those who died serving our nation,” notes Brad Graft, Pirate’s Cove Partner and Regional Director.  “The Pirate’s Cove family thought it appropriate to establish an annual event to serve charities that assist our living veterans – men and women who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.” Pirate’s Cove and Pirate’s Island operate 35 miniature golf courses throughout the United States.

For more information, visit their website at www.piratescove.net.  Additional information on the above charities can be found by accessing their Web sites: www.hopeforthewarriors.orgwww.mcsf.org , and www.homesforourtroops.org.

 

 

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By |2020-01-06T13:22:29-05:00May 22nd, 2009|Check This Out, Events, Traverse City|0 Comments

Empire Asparagus Festival

 Empire Asparagus Festival parade photoDid You Know:  An asparagus spear can grow up to 10 inches in one day.

It takes three years before you can harvest a new asparagus plant, but then look out! It will reproduce spears for 6-7 weeks, depending on the weather. And one crown (plant) will continue to produce each spring for 15-20 years! Here are a few more amazing asparagus facts:
  • Edible asparagus comes in green, white and purple varieties. The white is grown underground so the plant doesn’t produce chlorophyll.
  • It is a member of the lily family.
  • A spear will grow into a tall fern with red berries. This allows the plant to store energy for next season.
  • Wild asparagus can be found growing along many Michigan country roads.
To celebrate this green garden gem stop by the Empire Asparagus Festival, May 15-17th. Events include a 5K Fun Run/Walk, a parade and Asparagus Eats. For $5 you can sample asparagus creations from area restaurants including Arts Tavern, Tuscan Bistro, Scalawags, Stella and more. For details check out the Empire Chamber website.
By |2020-01-06T13:25:46-05:00May 15th, 2009|Check This Out, Events, Leelanau|0 Comments

Interlochen 2009 Arts Festival Tickets Available

Arts Festival Tickets on Sale Today!

Interlochen Center for the Arts invites you to join us this summer to enjoy a great lineup that includes classical virtuosos, rock-n-roll legends, country superstars, folk icons, master comedians, phenomenal dancers and more!

Highlights include:

  • Willie Nelson & Family
  • Steve Miller Band
  • Paula Poundstone
  • Interlochen Irish Festival, featuring Eileen Ivers & Immigrant Soul and the Glengarry Bhoys
  • Kenny Loggins
  • Ra Ra Riot
  • Parsons Dance Company
  • Hot Peas ‘N Butter
  • Indigo Girls
  • Styx
  • The Capitol Steps
  • Joan Baez
  • Cherryholmes
  • The Wallflowers …and much more!

Ticket go on sale today, April 24 and can be ordered online at https://tickets.interlochen.org/ or by calling the Interlochen Box Office at 231.276.7800 or 800.681.5920

By |2020-01-06T15:33:18-05:00April 24th, 2009|Attractions, Check This Out, Entertainment, Events|0 Comments

Congratulations Small Business of the Year Nominees

 Mealtickets Advertisers Vie for Small Business of the Year Award

Chamber Small Business Celebration logoEach year the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce hosts a Small Business Celebration and awards one local establishment the honor of Small Business of the Year. This year three Mealtickets & Unusual Ideas advertisers are among the nominees.

 

The Cherry Stop, owned and operated by Nick and Jamie Roster, is a specialty store in Downtown Traverse City featuring everything cherry. Located on Front Street, The Cherry Stop offers direct shipping and operates a unique wine bar in the back of the store overlooking Grand Traverse Bay.

Chateau Chantal, an Old Mission must-see, is a beautiful winery complete with rolling vineyards, a tasting room and a bed & breakfast. Guests enjoy fantastic views from the rooms which are named after famous artists.

Right Brain Brewery, located in the Warehouse district of Traverse City, is a local favorite. Owner Russell Springsteen has created a comfortable retreat for beer lovers to explore the many flavor possibilities of brewer John Niedermier. The brewery is located next to Salon Saloon, where guests can have their hair trimmed while they sip a stout.

 

Check out these three fantastic businesses, and all the other deserving nominees at this year’s Small Business Celebration at the Candidate’s Showcase held this Thursday, April 16, 2009 at the Hagerty Center in Traverse City from 5:30 – 7:30pm. There is no cost for the event. So come, meet the candidates and wish them good luck.

Hometown Highlights: Michigan Maple Syrup

Hometown Highlights Michigan maple syrup graphic

 

From Sap to Syrup

The Making of a Michigan Specialty

 

I grew up in Suburbia. Our food came from the grocery store, not a garden. We prepared meals from fresh, canned or frozen foods like everyone else I knew. On weekends we’d enjoy a breakfast of pancakes, always topped with pure Michigan maple syrup. Never had I imagined the hours of labor involved in producing something as simple and pure as Michigan Maple syrup. And then I met my in-laws.

collecting sap from maple trees photoNestled in the woods on a few acres just outside of Honor is a modest home, surrounded by maples. A large garden lies dormant in front of the house, which from the road appears to be resting on a foundation of cord wood. The driveway slopes downhill and curves in front of the pole barn meeting the road and bisecting an old wooden split-rail fence. A weathered hand painted sign rests against the rails and offers Firewood For Sale. A much smaller sign, only posted when inventory is high, and only noticed by those in-the-know, markets pure maple syrup.

When I met my in-laws I began to truly appreciate the time, labor and patience involved in making one of nature’s most healthful products.

Michigan maple syrup is 100% natural, organic and fat-free. Producers are licensed by the state and are forbidden from including any additives including artificial colors or preservatives. There are around 500 commercial producers in Michigan, and over 2000 home operations, like that of my in-laws.

The season for producing maple syrup is sort, generally around 6-8 weeks, and weather dependent. When the temperatures at night drop below freezing, and rise to 40 degrees or higher during the day, the sap will flow. In Michigan that usually begins around late February or early March. Small producers, those collecting sap in buckets or bags, will tap trees based on the weather, whereas commercial ones will start and stop based on the calendar. The sap will only flow on days when the conditions are right.

 

maple sap drips from a spile photoTapping the Trees

In Michigan sugar and black maple trees are preferred sap makers, although any maple tree sap can be collected and converted to syrup. Holes are drilled in the trees and fitted with collecting spouts called spiles. Buckets or bags are then hung from the spiles to collect the sap. Commericial producers often use elaborate tubing collection systems equipped with vacuums which can increase the yield as much as 50%. A maple tree should be about 40 years old and 10 inches in diameter to be tapped. The number of taps per tree depends on it’s size, with as many as 4 per tree.

During the season an average tap will generate up to 10 gallons of sap; almost enough to make one quart of syrup.

Collecting the Sap

When I was a child I assumed that maple sap must be like other tree sap; thick, sticky, brown and gooey. Not so. The sap that runs from the tree is clear and made of about 98% water. The remaining 2-3% contains sugars and trace minerals including calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium and potassium. The liquid is slightly sweet and completely pure. Freezing and thawing temperatures create pressure which forces the sap from the tree. Collection buckets are generally covered to keep out debris and rainwater. Maple syrup is made by boiling this sap to evaporate the water to concentrate the sugars.

maple sap collecting in a bucket photoIt takes 43 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of syrup. So 42 gallons of water must be evaporated.

From Sap to Syrup

It’s a good thing my father-in-law cut wood on the side because it can take more than a cord of hardwood to keep the fires going long enough to create a few gallons of syrup. They gather the sap, one heavy pail at a time, and transfer the liquid to a deep evaporation pan which rests atop a firebox. Smoke is routed away from the syrup with a stovepipe. Sap is continuously added as the water evaporates while foam and debris are carefully skimmed. It’s a labor intensive process, and must be carefully timed and attended to avoid boiling over or scorching. When the sugar concentration in the syrup reaches the desired consistency they finish it indoors on the stove.

Syrup boils at 219 degrees Fahrenheit, just above that of water. With a high sugar content the temperature rises quickly, and so does the potential for disaster. More than one stove has been destroyed in the split second between simmer and foaming over-boil. When the syrup reaches the desired temperature it is carefully filtered through clean wool to remove sugar sand and other solids. Stored syrup is packaged hot in tightly sealed air-tight containers.

 

Maple Syrup and Maple Products

Maple Syrup can be made into other sweet confections including maple cream, sugar and candy. For a fun treat with the kids try pouring it over fresh snow for nature’s own snow-cone. Aside from pancakes and waffles maple syrup is also great drizzled over grapefruit, granola or ice cream, incorporated in a marinade and in vinaigrettes.

 

Here are a few of my favorite local products made from Michigan Maple Syrup

Maple Walnut Biscotti, Way North Foods

Sirius Maple Dessert Wine, Black Star Farms

Cherry Maple Vinaigrette, Leelanau Country Inn

Maple Walnut Fudge, Murdick’s Fudge Shoppe

 

Fun Facts

  • The average maple syrup production in Michigan is roughly 90,000 gallons per year, ranking 6th in production nationwide
  • Maple syrup is one of the few agricultural products where demand exceeds supply
  • North America is the only producer of maple syrup since the climate in Europe isn’t favorable for producing sap
  • The production of pure maple syrup is the oldest agricultural endeavor in the U.S.
  • The economic impact of the Michigan Maple Syrup industry is estimated at $2.5 million annually

 

For more information on the Michigan Maple Syrup industry check out the following links:

Michigan Maple Syrup Association

Hobby Maple Syrup Production

Michigan Maple Syrup

By |2020-01-06T15:46:49-05:00March 8th, 2009|Check This Out, Hometown Highlights|0 Comments

Name the Slope at Crystal Mountain

Name the Slope at Crystal Mountain graphicYour Namesake Could be Your Legacy

Michigan Legacy Art Park is pleased to announce a unique opportunity! In partnership with Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa, the Art Park is auctioning the naming rights to the Crystal Mountain ski slope currently named “N11.”

The online auction will run through April 24 and culminate at a live auction and dinner event on April 25 (the high online bidders will be invited to bid via proxy if they can not attend.) Other auction items include a Crystal Spa package and season ski pass. All proceeds go to support Michigan Legacy Art Park. Individuals, groups, and organizations alike are invited to bid online at:   www.NameTheSlope.com

 

About Michigan Legacy Art Park:
Located within Crystal Mountain, Michigan Legacy Art Park offers an unparalleled experience of art, nature and history. More than 40 major works for art line 1.6 miles of hiking trails that wind through a 30-acre preserve of wooded hills. The Art Park is a unique cultural and recreational destination.

View more at www.michlegacyartpark.org.

By |2020-01-06T15:49:06-05:00March 4th, 2009|Art Scene, Benzie, Check This Out|0 Comments

Michigan Ice Wine Poured at White House Dinner

Black Star Farms Michigan ice wineThere’s a Black Star in The White House; Black Star Farms to be exact

President Barack Obama and his wife recently hosted a governor’s dinner where the featured wine was something special; a Michigan ice wine. Paired with a dessert of huckleberry cobbler and caramel ice cream was the A Capella ice wine from Black Star Farms.

This isn’t the first time a Black Star Farms wine has been served by Presidents. In fact the A Capella ice wine, and the Sirius Maple dessert wine were also chosen by President George W. Bush during his tenure at The White House.

 

For more information about Michigan ice wines check out the post, Why Ice Wine is Divine. You can also see a video of how the 2007 A Capella ice wine was created if you check out this link.

By |2020-01-06T15:50:53-05:00February 25th, 2009|Check This Out, Leelanau, Wineries|0 Comments

A Perfect Pairing at Fustini’s

 Celebrate Valentines Day with a Free Gift From Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars

With any 2-bottle purchase (any combination, ie. 2 balsamics, 2 oils, OR 1 balsamic + 1 oil), you’ll receive a COMPLEMENTARY PAIR of POUR SPOUTS. There’s no limit to the number of PAIRS Fustini’s “lovers” can purchase and still receive the free pour spouts.  Offer expires February 14, 2009.

It’s good in the store at 141 East Front Street, and in their online store.  Bottles shipped by UPS to locations in Michigan, Ohio and Illinois and shipped by this Tuesday are still receiving delivery advisories of Friday, February 13.

 

Fustini's Tuscan Herb Oil graphicFustinis Pear Balsamic graphicCheck out the new flavors at Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars: Tuscan Herb Oil and White Pear Balsamic.

For more information on Fustini’s visit their website, or check out our Attractions page which includes a map to their Downtown Traverse City location.

 

By |2020-01-06T15:53:33-05:00February 11th, 2009|Attractions, Check This Out, Traverse City|0 Comments

Great Indoor Folk Festival at The Village

Dozens of Folk Artists Perform on Saturday at Building 50

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is host to a folk festival on Saturday February 7th. Five stages will be set-up throughout Building 50 to host as many as 75 performers throughout the day. Brought to you by Northern Michigan Songwriters in the Round. For a complete list of performers Click Here.

In addition, Another Cuppa Joe will host an Open Mic Stage at their coffeehouse in The Village.

 

The festival is a free, non-profit event. Individual artists will offer their CDs available for sale.

 

By |2020-01-06T15:58:46-05:00February 3rd, 2009|Check This Out, Entertainment, Events, Traverse City|0 Comments

Celebrate February, National Cherry Month

tart cherries photoThe Cherry Capital is the Perfect Place to Celebrate National Cherry Month

Traverse City is home of the Cherry Festival, and known as the Cherry Capital of the world. So what better place to celebrate National Cherry Month than right here in Northern Michigan.

The Cherry Stop has christened it Febru-Cherry and they’re throwing a discount party all month long to celebrate. All month long their entire store is 15% off (some exclusions apply). There is no better time to stop in and pick up some of nature’s wonder fruit.

 

If you thought the only way to enjoy cherries was fresh or dried, here are a few of my favorite local products that show the versatility of this healthy fruit:

Chateau Fontaine Cherry wine – According to winemaker Dan Matthias it tastes like “cherry pie in a bottle,” I tend to agree

The Cherry Stop Cherry Salsa – Available in Hot, Medium or Mild to suit your tastes

BoomChuggaLugga Cherry Soda – Cherry Republic’s original cherry soda with 8% cherry juice

Hip Bones Cherry Dog Treats – Great treats for older dogs, helps maintain healthy hips and joints and it’s made with all natural ingredients

Cerise Nutraceuticals Cherry Lotion – From the originator of Plevalean, Ray Pleva. Shown to clinically benefit arthritic patients. I like it because it’s not greasy and absorbs fast

 

If you’re interested in learning more about cherry products, and Traverse City’s role in world cherry production check out our previous post on the subject: Michigan Cherries, a Little Fruit with a Lot of Power.

By |2020-01-06T16:01:23-05:00February 3rd, 2009|Check This Out, Traverse City|0 Comments