BAYLIFE MAGAZINE May / June 2023

slice of summer

NOTE FROM THE publisher

I’m a hundred percent sure that you will be in a good mood as you dive into this issue. If you are one of the lucky families that got to sneak away for a much-needed spring break, you should be extra happy, and maybe a little sunkissed. It’s mostly because, as always, the pages are full of familiar faces, happy smiles, dreams becoming realities, hope, and possibilities. But it’s also an actual scientific fact. The spring-in-the-air feeling is real. The birds are chirping, the flowers are blossoming, and the exposure to the sunlight increases our bodies production of serotonin, which increases our self-esteem and happiness. The sun exposure gives us the natural source of vitamin D, which we need for healthy bones. And because of the extra daylight, we are more active, which in turn kicks in our exercise good juju endorphins. It was a wacky winter, but we made it.

The group of ladies that we feature in the pages all have an appreciation for the dormant nature of winter because they are stewards of plants; they know annuals come back to life. They are the Friendly Garden Club of Traverse City, and this year celebrates their 100th anniversary. I met with members and committees of the “Friendlies,” realizing their big event was important to our community. Delving into their history, I was completely overwhelmed with the specifics and their long, extremely detailed resume of civic beautification projects that are making a huge impact. Consider the times: 1923, the 30s, 40s, 50s, and mere women? They were certainly not considered equal to men. “More than just tea and cookies,” to be exact, which is their club motto. These ladies were the movers and shakers of the early days of Traverse City. And thanks to their history of planting seeds, today we enjoy the fruits of their labor all around in public parks, downtown, the Open Space, and the Historic Barns to name just a few. When we show off our city this summer as our home to be proud of, the Friendlies’ work is on display. They still have a huge project in the making the Children’s Sensory Garden, a magical place for generations to come. The Friendlies continue the legacy.

I do hope you enjoy this issue. It’s such a special time now. It’s smooth sailing from here. The grass will get greener, buds will pop, and our beautiful bay will sparkle all the dazzling hues of blues. And very soon it will be boat season. Woo hoo! Cheers!

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” — Audrey Hepburn

Teaghan by the Kinder-bells. They were generously donated by the Stockemer family.

Teaghan and I popped by to see the progress of The Children’s Sensory Garden. The bronze statue of the old asylum’s famous cow, Colantha is awesome.

ABOUT THE COVER

Rachel and Rhiana Leipprandt by Tyler Leipprandt, Michigan Sky Media

“Shortly after moving to TC, our family developed a love for paddle-boarding and handstand competitions. The Boardman is one of our favorites. We drop our boards in near the library and then paddled through town to the public dock near Little Fleet. Our handstand competitions seem to gain spectators as we cross under all the little bridges. It is fun for us and seems to make people smile too.”

BayLife Magazine is a family owned, Traverse City based publication with over 38 years’ experience in the industry. We are proud to be 100% made in Traverse City, Michigan.

PUBLISHERS

Teri and Tom Gorsline

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Tom Gorsline

editor@baylifenorth.com

COPY EDITOR

Hannah Ryder

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rachelle Robinson, Todd and Brad Reed

Hannah Ryder, Bob Brick

Darric Newman, Tyler Leipprandt

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tom Gorsline, Todd and Brad Reed Photography, Erin Attwood - Dune Life Photography, Tyler Leipprandt - Michigan Sky Media, Don Rutt

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Bethany Gulde www.bethanydesigntc.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Teri Gorsline

teri@baylifenorth.com

BAY BREEZE MEDIA LLC

10966 S West Bay Shore Drive Traverse City, MI 49684 231-715-6088

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR AND INQUIRIES editor@baylifenorth.com

@BayLifeMagazine

@BayLifeMagazine

BAYLIFE Magazine Number 67 is a bi-monthly publication of BAY BREEZE Media, LLC. Advertising Rates available at baylifenorth. com or calling 231-715-6088. BAYLIFE Magazine is a controlled subscription, direct mailed to 8000 affluent homes located on Old Mission Peninsula, Wayne Hill, Slabtown, Traverse City, Incochee and distributed to locations throughout the Grand Traverse Bay and Northern Michigan. BAYLIFE Magazine is owned exclusively by BAY BREEZE Media, LLC. 2023. All content of this publication is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part for any reason without prior approval of the publisher. BAYLIFE Magazine is family owned and is a registered trademark of BAY BREEZE MEDIA, LLC.

THE JONKHOFF FAMILY AND CARING STAFF ARE THE ONES YOU CAN TRUST AND DEPEND ON… Today and

Dan Jonkhoff Funeral Director Emeritus Retired, Peg Jonkhoff Administrative Director, and daughters Christy Jonkhoff-Hater and Lindsey (Jonkhoff) Rogers) Funeral Directors, CFSP, 6th generation co-owners

AGOLDE, Ulla Johnson, Alémais, Isabel Marant Etoile, ANINE BING, Tibi, Simkhai, Rachel Comey, Loulou Studio, Proenza Schouler, Totême, FRAME, ODEEH, Lisa Yang, & more

ON THE TOWN

Big Brothers Big Sisters “Social”

Middle Coast Brewing Company

March 16, 2023

A BIG THANK YOU

to the amazing owners & staff at MiddleCoast Brewing Company AND their awesome customers for participating in the first ever Community Taps program!  $1 from every HopFish Hazy sold during January & February was matched by MiddleCoast and donated to Bigs for an incredible total of $550!

Sharon Janis Rochford, Milda Stapleton

Brooke Stebner, Chrissie Felke, Cheryl L

Ted Wendling, Brian Johanson

Juli Ackley, Max Janis, Barb Ellis

Mark Hill, Don Piche

Kris Hoxie, Joel Mulder (Co–owner MiddleCoast Brewing Co)

ON THE TOWN

HBA HOME EXPO

Grand Traverse Resort

March 11, 2023

Scott and Rene Hills

Heidi Flake, Lauren Tucker, Karla Shappe

Robin Whipple (Bay View Flooring), Denise Stroik Ostrowski (Daltile), Jerri Kindlinger (CMB Construction), Mary Beth Ruskowski (TBA Credit Union)

Charlie Weighman, Ellen Pellar - Floor Covering Brokers

Jerri Kindlinger and Colin Bushong of CMB Construction

Terry Harper, Matt Lautner of Precision Plumbing

Andrea Holcomb, Jennifer Bard

ON THE TOWN

Traverse Connect

Leadership Grand Traverse Graduation

The Delamar Hotel

March 15, 2023

Aaron Harris and Michelle Bien

Vaida Toothman, Allison Roberts, Becky Jo Wolfe, Drew Vandrie, Emily Markham

Kate Martinson, Morgan Ulseth

Herb and Barb Lemcool, Nick Lemcool, Ron Lemcool

Nick Leverenz, Jennifer Koop, Samantha Murphy

Raizel Coiman, Frances Coiman, Brittany Vanderbeek

Marisa Korn, Mandy Sentieri

Rob Carson, Matthew Cook

Daniel Kinga, Michaella Forbush

Amy Pardini, Megan Ruediger, Molly Pardini

Rob Donnell, Ryan Jarvi, Courtney Doyle

Lauren Pauly, Lisa Trombley

ON THE TOWN

Northern Michigan Environment Action Council (NMEAC)

34th Annual Environmentalist of the Year Awards Dennos Center April 14, 2023

Andy Gale, Pam Miller, Business Nominee Marty Lagina, Lydia Gulow

Olivia Ellesee, Wayne Ekren, Nominee Brandie Ekren, Wayne Ekren

Public Service Nominee’s – Tom Weber, Ty Wessell, Gerald Schatz, Gina Harder, Phyllis Rebori

Ryan Buck, Steven Holl

Linda Dunigan, Laura Fransen

Jerry Dobeck, John Nelson, Public Service Nominee Marvin Radke

Grass Roots Group Nominee Anne Morrison Perry, Sally Van Vleck

Ann Rogers, Grass Roots Group Nominee Kay Bond in place of her late husband Randy Bond, Jeanne Peters

Lauren Nil, Education Nominee Jo Jaczkowski, Jenna Fulton

Timothy Young, Jacob Wheeler

Andy and Cindy Gale

Declan and Megan Resor, Education Nominee Erin Fitzpatrick, Claire Alexander

Volunteer Nominee’s Valerie Schey, Nicola Philpot

Bob Brick

Bob Brick MEET

BROKER/OWNER RE/MAX BAYSHORE PROPERTIES

RECIPIENT OF THE 2022 TRAVERSE CONNECT DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

• Elected Northwestern Michigan College, Board of Trustees, Past Chairman, past Treasurer for 12 years

• Economics Club of Traverse City, Executive Board, Past President

• Northwestern Michigan College Foundation, Board Member 25 Years

• Northwestern Michigan College Great Lakes Campus $18 million

• Capital Fund Campaign, Co-Chair

• (BRICKWAYS) Community Living Center Foundation, Board Member 25 Years

• Traverse Area Association of Realtors, Strategic Planning Committee

• Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools, Basketball and Golf Coach

• Little League Baseball Coach

• AYBT Basketball Coach

• Eagle Scout Scenic Trails Council, Past Board Member “Be Prepared” “On My Honor”

• Traverse Area Foundation, Past President

• Grand Traverse Area YMCA, Past Board Member

MOVER & SHAKER

Your beloved mom, Mary Jean Brick won the same award back in 1991. Tell us what that means to you. “My mother, Mary Jean Brick, was an incredible person. Ross Childs (the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award in 2000) compared her to Mother Teresa of Traverse City for all the work she did for the mentally disabled and underprivileged in our community. She was, and continues to be, one of my heroes. We saw her as the real superwoman, supermom, and super-friend to all. My father was one of the most intense men I have ever met, and a tremendous giver of his time to the betterment of this community also. He was involved in so many organizations that continue to have his legacy of intensity and dogmatism. My mother could walk into the room and bring a sense of calm and set a genuine peacefilled presence and an uplifting feeling of love. Having them as examples to try to emulate and to see the selfless sacrifice that they contributed every day, in every way, were truly impactful things for me. No job is too small and everything great in this world can be possible through the actions of faith, family and friends. We are believers in divine intervention. We must fervently pray like it’s up to God, but we must work diligently like it is up to us. Service above self.”

You run a true family business. What is the best thing and the worst thing about that?

“We are family, but we are also best friends. We want the best for each other and seek to have a positive impact in everything we do. It’s a continual work in process. There are occasional times of frustration, but the solution is to always to find the positive. Optimism rules the day. We tried to instill in them the same ethic that [my wife] Nancy and I were both blessed to inherit from our parents. We’re all in this together, and when we stay focused on the positive, we can overcome most challenges, and we know we can’t do it alone. We need the collaboration and support of someone who always has your back. Having our four children and their spouses all living back in Traverse City with our nine grandchildren is truly the greatest blessing for our family. We are all committed to bettering each of our journeys and discovering how to become the best version of ourselves.”

2023 marks 50 years of being a Realtor. Do you have any idea of the numbers for such a legendary career?

“50 years is a long time. It seems like it has flown by. Doing anything for 50 years is worth celebrating. I have helped many people (over 5,400 transactions) with their dreams and struggles. I have a sign in my back hallway to the garage that I read every morning when I leave for work and every evening when I come home. The sign says, ‘Your story begins at home.’ Nancy’s and my story has begun at home. Our children and our grands all are the characters in our story as they create their own version. So, too, are all the people that I have helped along the way with their home, and their story. It’s purposeful work. I take it very seriously, with the intensity which I learned from my father and the love for others which I learned from my mother. It’s not a hobby. It’s not a job; it’s a mission.”

“I used to be an altar boy and attended Mass every day with my mom. She called it ‘making a deposit in her spiritual bank account.’ She said she had so much work to do, she needed God’s help.”

MOVER & SHAKER

Continued from pg 19

You were instrumental in shaping so much of the Traverse City we all love today. What are you most proud of?

“When I was young, much of the Traverse City waterfront was an industrial mixture of buildings, coal docks, railroad tracks, a coal fired power plant, and canneries. Our waterfront did not have a pretty face. I love this town, and to help change this I have collaborated with many likeminded people. With this, the Open Space was born. It is very important to continue to focus on any aspect of our community which can be improved. It was a long process spanning over 50 years of partnerships. Our waterfront is a reflection of that due diligence. I’d say, now it might be one of the most beautiful cityscapes and beachscapes anywhere. Being the co-chair for the fundraising effort of the Center for the Great Lakes (housing the Hagerty Center, Maritime Academy, Lobdell’s Teaching Restaurant, and the Fresh Water Institute) was the capstone of this effort. I used to be an altar boy and rode every morning to Mass with my mother. So, early each morning when we drove along Grandview Parkway and looked out over the bay, we were in awe of its beauty, but also chagrined by its factories everywhere. We talked about that someday it would be great if all these buildings could be torn down, then the beauty of this town would become magical. That effort to help get the last piece of the puzzle removed to build NMC’s Center for the Great Lakes. That started with that conversation with my mother all those years ago. My connection with NMC has spanned over 30 years, 12 of those years as a Trustee. NMC is a treasure. Lifelong learning is a necessity today with the pace of change. NMC is one of our greatest assets to facilitate discovery of the tools necessary to navigate these changes. The faculty and staff are passionate to deliver it in the highest quality. It has truly been an honor for me to be a small part as a community liaison and Trustee.

You are a dearly loved local figure. What is one thing that would surprise us to know about you?

“That I speak seven languages fluently…American English, Canuck, Kiwi, Aussie, Brit, Paddy, and Scots. Of course, all with a slight accent. I love to tell humorous stories. Between the ages of 16 and 19, I hitchhiked over 20,000 miles through the US, Canada, and to the Yucatán Peninsula, where I learned to play the harmonica.”

What would your wife Nancy tell us about you (Nancy, I will let you answer this question)?

“It’s been a blessing to be married to Bob for 43 years. We met ‘from across a crowded room’ in 1976 and have been together ever since. We’ve had a wonderful bunch of years raising our children, building our favorite house, and playing with all our wonderful friends. Bob is the wisdom of our family, helping us all to remember what is right, and to be courageous.”

What would your grandkids tell us about you?

“They call me Papa. We are very close. Two of them came home from the hospital right after birth to our house. I was able to hold these little angels only a few days old. They call me a baby whisperer. There is something about holding an infant with their unconditional love, and with a wish that they could forever be the unspoiled, unbiased, and unprejudiced hope for our world.”

Lastly, are there any words of wisdom you live by?

“‘God, give me the wisdom to discover the right, the will to choose it, and the courage to make it endure.’ -King Arthur. We say this with grace at every meal.”

Bob Brick

“It’s not a hobby. It’s not a job; it’s a mission.”

The Family Team of Brick & CorbetTommy and Betsy Corbett, Bob, Kecia and BJ Brick

The Brick Family - all because two people fell in love.

LOCAL SCOOP

Fairy Godmothers

Every start up business starts with a dream and a plan to make it a reality. With Dreams & Themes Sleepovers, two entrepreneur moms are making dreams come true, on a mission to make magical memories for other little girls just like theirs. “We both have daughters that are sleepover age, and we bounce ideas off them. They were our inspiration,” explains co-owner friends Tara Rybicki and Rhiannon Barr. Their themed sleepover party business is a unique opportunity for moms in Traverse City to ease the stress of throwing the perfect party. They even bring blow-up mattresses, bedding, and fun pillows. “We have the option to add on fun items like a selfie station with a Polaroid camera, a bubblegum machine, a candy cart, and take-home gifts for your guests.” They are like fairy godmothers: with a wave of a wand, they appear, bring everything, and set it up. Then they re-appear the next day—poof, gone! No stress. You’ll be the coolest mom ever! Considering not much sleep ever happens at a sleepover, they have lots of time to enjoy the awesome themed props. Dreamsandthemessleepovers.com

Take a TIME-OUT

Charity Kennedy is bringing kindness and holistic health to the east side of town with her Garden Spa. Armed with knowledge and experience from managing the Urban Salt Spa, she has been passionately planning to open her own. “I love people and genuinely care about their well-being.” Being a mom of five kids, which she homeschooled, she knows the value of taking your own time out. It’s an entire calming space dedicated to your wellness in a beautiful garden setting. “My oldest daughter owns a landscaping company, and she is helping me.” The Garden Spa will offer massages (including couples’ and Ashiatsu), a Halotherapy Himalayan salt room, infrared sauna, cold shower hydrotherapy, and a red-light therapy Vitality Booth—the only one in northern Michigan. “I discovered the healing of the salt room, my younger daughter suffers with allergies, it really helped her.”

Giving back is also important to Charity (just like her name). “We will be donating $1 from every service purchased at the spa to Operation Underground Railroad to help fight and end human trafficking.” She also plans to implement a Kindness Rewards Program. The Garden Spa is in the old Family Video building next to Walgreens.

2322 N. U.S. Highway 31 North thegardenspa.org

Charity Kennedy on the right, with her friend Carrie Poe Myles

Sweet Purpose

Bonjour and ooh la la…Paris is coming to Front St. with Le Macaron, a franchise that specializes in French pastries. No passport is needed for a true Parisian café experience with colorful macarons, pastries, gelato, coffee, gourmet chocolates, eclairs, and cakes. Oh my! It is a second location for franchise owners Bobbi Jo and William Blanton and for them personally provides an opportunity to give back by bring meaningful employment to our special needs community. “In our Grand Rapids store, we employ seven people with disabilities, and they all do wonderful. They are usually in the back not engaging with customers. Good jobs are hard to come by, and it’s our mission to give back.” The store’s backdrop mural is just getting its start to be painted by a local artist and everything is on track to be open soon. “My son and I are seriously addicted to them,” laughs Bobbie. Bon appétit!

332 East Front St.

TC’s New Temptress

Mouthwatering guilty pleasures are coming to Park St. by way of the Petoskey-based JoJo’s Cookie Co. owner, entrepreneur extraordinaire Jordyn Wilson opening her second location here in TC. “I hope our cookies bring big smiles and happiness. To brighten up someone on a bad day and be the place to celebrate on a good day.” Don’t let the sugar-sweet smile fool you; Jordyn is a pretty tough cookie. She has single-handedly built her brand from scratch, batch by batch. “I have always loved to bake with my family, and during the pandemic I worked on recipes to create the perfect cookie.” With lots of taste tests and support from family, friends, and new husband Colin, she quit her insurance day job and went all in. Her kitchen became overrun with electric mixers, baking trays, and branding boxes to fill the orders that were pouring in. “Labor Day weekend we opened our retail store in Petoskey. Then, for our first wedding anniversary, we came to Traverse City. I’ve grown up coming here, so we started to kick around the idea. A few places fell through, this one fell into place, and we are so excited.”

101 B Park Street. Jojoscookiecompany.com

wicked GOOD EATS

Playa Bowls

Playa Bowls TC TAKEOVER

It’s bathing suit season, but delicious and nutritious can still be on the menu if you discover the TC takeover happening at Playa Bowls on State St. Its plant-based fast-food, superfruit smoothies, coconut, açai, and pitaya bowls are the newest kid on the block. Franchise owners Amy and Lee Goldberg literally bet their life that Traverse City needed a Playa Bowls after they stumbled upon Playa Bowls and got hooked when they were living in Pennsylvania. They purchased a franchise and followed their dream to move here. The origins of the company began in beach towns, with two surfers on a mission to bring the fresh exotic fruits of the islands to the masses. They now boast 170 stores thousands of employees and a mission to lead communities in healthy, sustainable living.

They make it so easy to eat green, to stay lean and mean. The “bowls” are filled with blended versions of “Playa” with açai, pitaya, coconut, their signature Green, banana, chia pudding, or oatmeal. You just decide what toppings: sprinkles of granola, coconut flakes, chia seeds with fresh fruits blueberry, strawberry, bananas, pineapple, kiwi, mango, or goji berries. Then, your creation can be drizzled with peanut butter, almond butter, honey, or even Nutella! It’s just like ice cream, but way healthier. Fuel up your body on protein and fiber, with the sugars and carbs coming from natural sources. It’s a no brainer. No excuses either. They even deliver on DoorDash!

222 E. State St. Suite 101. playabowls.com

Franchise owners, Lee and Amy Goldberg, have big plans to open more stores in Northern Michigan

Spring in Northern Michigan is finally here. We see more sun, the temperatures warm up, and our thoughts anticipate summer activities, but some days are still chilly. For a great wine that bridges the gap between the colder days and the coming warmer days, Nebbiolo is a wonderful choice. The Nebbiolo grape comes from the Piedmont region of Italy, growing in different sub-regions and used to produce arguably some of the finest wines of Italy. The most recognizable types of wines are Barolo and Barbaresco, but there are other lesser-known bottlings that show some outstanding quality. Indigenous Nebbiolo d’ Alba is one of those hidden gems. Produced by famed wine maker and winery owner Giorgio Rivetti, best known for his La Spinetta line of incredible Barolo’s, Barbera’s and many others, the Indigenous line sees his special touch. Indigenous Nebbiolo is light red in color, giving way to aromas of ripe cherry, black currant, rose petal, and a hint of mint. On the palate flavors of sweet red cherries and spices create a juicy wine that pairs well with beef, duck, blue cheeses, and pasta with meat or mushroom sauces.

SUNNY

Stack Clay Bracelets $26 Relish, Traverse City Relishtc.com

I’m sorry for what I wore when I was cold.

SUMMER SPLASH

SUNNY

Bueno Tracy $140

Golden Shoes, Tarverse City Goldenshoestc.com

HOT Barbour Astley Hat $60 Bahle’s of Suttons Bay Bahles.net

BREEZY

Barbour Madison Beach Bag $100 Bahle’s of Suttons Bay Bahles.net

STEAMY

Faithful bikini top, $89.

Bottom $95

l.a.cool, Traverse City Shoplacool.com

CHILL

Velvet Sun Dress $178 Ella’s, Traverse City Swingbyellas.com

Schooner Alliance Pier Party

June 24th 11am – 3pm

All are welcome for a wonderful day to celebrate the Great Lakes and their continued protection. There will be food, activities, music, and deck tours.

Alliance

Our blue waters will soon be home to a beautiful showstopper schooner named Alliance. She is a stunning 105-foot, three masted, gaff-rigged schooner, and a proud new addition to the Inland Seas Education Association. She will join the fleet alongside current schooner Inland Seas. She was built in the very same yard by Treworgy Yachts and launched in 1995. She will depart very soon to set sail to her new home.

1. Georgetown, MD to New York City

2. New York City to Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

3. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia to Montreal, Canada

4. Montreal, Canada to the Welland Canal

5. Welland Canal to Detroit

6. Detroit to Suttons Bay

Donate Old Boats

If you’ve started your spring cleaning, consider donating your boats, paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, dinghies, etc. to ISEA. These items are a revenue stream for the organization as we sell them to the public. Those who purchase our boats are often first-time boaters and eager to begin a journey on the water. This ongoing fundraiser makes it affordable for them to get on the Great Lakes, supports ISEA and our mission, and may even be a tax deduction for the donor. Contact Fred Sitkins at fsitkins@schoolship.org if you have a boat to donate or for more information.

“We are on a mission to free over 10 million homes from harmful toxic chemicals and excess plastic waste.”

- Stephen Ezell, CEO

HOME GROWN & Local

TrulyFree with Stephen Ezell – CEO

6261

TrulyFree is a Traverse City-based e-commerce retailer of refillable eco-friendly cleaning products. They ship globally and create large scale change and impact.

What is the story of TrulyFree?

“In 2008 our son was 3 weeks old when he broke out in the worst rash of his life. We sought out treatment from a dermatologist and a pediatrician who offered us a steroid as a treatment. It was then that I made the most important phone call of my life, calling a family friend for advice. She asked, ‘What laundry detergent are you using?’ Something hidden in our home that we had no idea would end up harming our newborn. That led us to create our plant-based, nontoxic Truly Free line of refillable cleaning products.”

What is your company’s mission?

“TrulyFree is on a mission to free over 10 million homes from harmful toxic chemicals and excess plastic waste. We create innovative, powerful, and family-safe products in refillable and reusable packaging, which empowers families to protect themselves from harm and reduce their environmental footprint.”

Tell us about your large-scale change and impact. “It all started with finding a source to hand-sew our Dryer Angels to replace toxic dryer sheets. We were exposed to the ministry-based Caribbean Christian Centers for the Deaf in Jamaica. This ministry provides education, housing, and employment. We taught them how to make a product and earn a sustainable income. We have an outlet in Southeast Asia to free women from sex trafficking, get healed, and have sustainable jobs. We believe that giving back to the world we serve is a responsibility for any company and a necessity for making our planet a better place.”

What’s next?

“We are one of the fastest growing eco-friendly companies in the country. We recently moved into our new company headquarters in Williamsburg, which was the former Acme Tom’s Food Market. Inside we are opening our retail store. And we believe, ‘you can’t pick your family, but you can pick your work family.’ We are seeking great people to join us.”

US Highway 31 N, Williamsburg, MI 49690 231-944-1716 trulyfreehome.com

THE POWER OF

The 100th Anniversary Celebration of The Friendly Garden Club of Traverse City

When you really think about it, beautiful flowers play an enormous role in the journey of our lives. All around the world the gift of flowers is specifically given at times of great human joy, a baby’s birth, birthdays, graduations, engagements, weddings, and anniversaries, as well as at times of great sadness to somehow help with healing and remembrance when words fail us. Their silent power is unmistakable, and their scents continue to evoke emotions bottled in hundreds of thousands of perfumes. Can you even imagine a world without flowers?

The community flowers of Traverse City that we all enjoy have their very own volunteer guardians: A female army of planters, weeders, pruners, and growers called The Friendly Garden Club. The “Friendlies” meet, plot, plan, and organize to make real change happen with beautification projects all around our small town. They speak funny, with words like annual, perennial, deciduous, and full shade. Their weapons are hand trowels, cultivators, and watering pots. If this is news to you, they have been hiding in plain sight. These green-thumbed local ladies keep a watchful eye to serve and protect and they have for 100 years! The deeply-planted roots of The Friendly Garden Club go back to 1923.

Let’s dig in to how it all began.

Two ladies who happened to be sisters (the Barnum sisters), Annette B. Power and Edna B. Lawton, were challenged by their dear friend Maud Bates Williams to organize a garden club in Traverse City. On April 26, 1923, The Friendly Garden Club was organized. The membership totaled 35 with dues set at $1.00. Edna Lawton served as club president from 1922-1924.

Why friendly?

The reason for the name “Friendly” was because their gardens were made up of flowers and plants all given to them by their friends. The club flower is the rose. “This old world that we are living in is mighty hard to beat. You get a thorn with every rose, but ain’t the roses sweet?”

(1939 yearbook poem)

The original objective of the club was “to stimulate the knowledge and love of gardening: to aid in the protection of native trees, plants and wildlife; and to encourage civic plantings.”

After many colors of roses, the YELLOW rose was finally chosen as the rose for their club; Yellow represents FRIENDSHIP.

Edna Lawton served as the first president.

2016 Friendly Garden Club of Traverse City Honors Luncheon

The ladies always met in dresses and hats, and tea was served.

Flower Power Milestones

1920s

• The club protested to the City Commission regarding the use of Bryant Park as a public camp. The motion was amended to read that ALL City Parks be barred for this purpose.

• The Friendlies paid landscape architect Harold Ransom $200 to develop a landscape plan for Legion Park on Cass St.

1930s

• The first real “Flower Show” was held in the ballroom at the Park Place Hotel.

• The ladies beautified Lay Park located across from Hannah Park on Union St.

• The club became a member of the Federated Garden Clubs of Michigan, Inc. on June 30, 1931.

• The Friendlies hosted the Federated Garden Clubs of Michigan’s 5th annual meeting at the Park Place Hotel.

1940s

• New constitution and by-laws were formulated in 1941.

• The club name was formally changed to The Friendly Club of Traverse City The standing committees were:

• Program

• Publicity

• Civic/Beautification

• Conservation

• Horticulture

• Jr. Garden Club

• Highway Improvement

1950s

• Meetings were frequently held in members’ homes.

• In 1955, constitution and by-laws were updated.

• Dues were raised to $3.

1960s

• Downtown businesses that beautified their surroundings through landscaping were recognized.

• Junior Garden Club began.

1970s

• Elnora Milliken and Barbara MacFarlane co-hosted the TV 7&4 program “The Friendly Garden Club on the Air.” Les Biederman gave them public service airtime of 15-30 minutes.

1980s

• The club received Ann Arbor Club of Distinction Award.

• The club celebrated its 50th birthday.

• The club donated $6,000 toward landscape plan and plant materials for the new TC convention and Visitors Bureau, and included plantings at the Senior Center.

1990s

• The Grand Traverse Commons Tree Identification Project was held 1998-99

• Eunice Pines chaired this enormous project; they placed over 65 labels on the trees to name them. The project received a National Garden Club Award.

The Garden Walks

1983 - 1st Garden Walk

Dorry Price chaired first Garden Walk. Garden Club Member Helen Milliken’s garden was one of the five gardens on the walk. One thousand tickets were printed; each ticket cost $4. The profit of $1,940 from this walk benefited Boardman Riverwalk Project. It is still their main fundraiser and over 1000 people participate.

The Logo Garden

The first Logo Garden was planted by the Friendlies in the Open Space in 1987 in celebration of Michigan’s 150-year anniversary. The Logo Garden was highly visible within the community and brought more recognition to the club promoting the love of gardening, landscape, floral design, and their efforts at civic beautifications and environmental responsibility. Today it is one of their biggest projects. Every year has a new theme, and over 6,000 annuals are planted.

The Children’s Garden

The Blue Star Memorial

1999 - Plans for The Children’s Garden, located at the rear of the Traverse Area District Library. broke ground under the direction of Susan Kuschell, who served as club president from 1998-1999.

2001 – The Children’s Garden expanded to include a Learning Garden by the old railroad tracks and station.

2016 – The Blue Star Memorial was created at The Botanical Garden to honor veterans with Sue Soderberg and Pat Huxtable as co-chairs.

The Giving Garden

2020 – The Giving Garden was instituted by the Youth Gardening Committee. It’s located in the Community Gardens adjacent from The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park. One hundred percent of the herbs and vegetables grown there are donated to local food pantries. It is also utilized as a teaching tool to engage teenagers with disabilities. The club won a first-place award for Caring Through Garden Therapy from the National Clubs Central Region.

The Children’s Sensory Garden

Under the direction of 2022 President Sandi Clark with committee members Sue Mrowczynski and Suzi Snyder, The Children’s Sensory Garden, located at The Botanic Garden, is still being created. It’s a special sensory garden that entices children of all ages and abilities to interact with the natural world using their five senses.

To date, several installations have been completed including a sensory path, a maze area, a waterfall, a bronze statue of Colantha the Cow, and an interactive musical Kinder-bells sculpture. To come is an amphitheater, fencing, and a kaleidoscope.

The Grande Finale Celebration

2023 - “Celebrating History and Gardens in the Heart of Traverse City.”

This will be the 40th year of having a garden walk. This year they showcase the gardens of historic homes in the Central and Boardman neighborhoods. Not to miss on the list will be the historic Perry Hannah Home, now the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, which will be open for visitors to tour the mansion, enjoy refreshments in the gardens under the tent, and take advantage of photo opportunities at their historic gazebo, which was formally the bell tower of the old Central School.

100 Years Strong

These friendly gardener ladies are a lot more than just tea & cookies - They are real mover & shakers beautifying our city one flower at a time.

Garden Walk 2012Dan and Peg Jonkhoff

PHOTO BY DON RUTT

Michigan Sky Media

Forbes Top Wealth Management Teams

FRESH Province Pendant $900 Home Works, Traverse City Homeworksinteriors.store

HEIGHT

WIDTH

DEPTH

SHADE DIMS

SHADE COLOR

BULB QTY

BULB TYPE

WATTAGE

WIRING TYPE

MATERIAL

Home is where the anchor drops.

SANDY SHORES

SEASHORE

Papua Necklace $275 Ella’s, Traverse City swingbyellas.com

COASTAL Candle $30 M22, Traverse City M22.com

BAY BREEZE

Accent Stool $375

Golden Fowler Home Furnishings, Traverse City Goldenfowler.com

FREIGHT ONLY

ISLAND BREEZE

Dining Chair $799

Nest In Design, Traverse City Nestindesign.com

HOME set in STONE

As the weather warms and we extend our living area outside this summer, think outside the box of the traditional wooden deck. Stone makes a spectacular statement. Nothing can compare to the lasting beauty of natural stone that can stand the test of time. In fact, the oldest paved roads discovered were built over 4,600 years ago and are still intact.

Bring your backyard to life with an elegant stone patio and fire pit that the whole family can enjoy with s’mores and quality time, making priceless memories. Bold and beautiful stone comes in different colors, sizes, and textures. Line the border of your pool or hot tub with elegant natural stone pavers. The durability and artistic flair that stone brings will also add value to your home.

Here is a fun fact: you can pick out locally inspired stone at The Concrete Service with their exclusive Designer’s Choice with 6 collections in all. The Old Town Collection has options that include Union St. Blend, West Bay Blend, Good Harbor Blend, and Suttons Bay Cobblestone. The Mid Town Collection has M-22 Blend, Torch Lake Blend, and Lake Michigan Cobble to name a few. The Slab Town collection has options like Sleeping Bear Ledge, Old Mission Blend, Vineyard Blend, and Slabtown Blend. Imagine what a conversation starter that would be to pair with wine and charcuterie! The collections represent a lifestyle in harmony with the nature and the Traverse City region.

A Hidden oasis

WRITTEN BY HANNAH RYDER

PHOTOS BY ERIN ATTWOOD - DUNE LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

VIEWS OF LAKE MICHIGAN

are always awe-inspiring, and a beautiful home that offers a seemingly endless horizon of crystalline blue is something most people only dream about. For a husband-and-wife duo, that dream came true when they moved into their forever home after raising their family in Traverse City and claimed a slice of the lake for themselves. “We’ve always loved the water,” one of the homeowners says.

The area has always held a special place in both homeowners’ hearts. “I’ve been in the area since 1981,” one of the homeowners explains. “My folks moved up north when I was in college, so I got a taste of northern Michigan, and I knew at some point in my life, I wanted to make that my home.” His wife was already familiar with the splendor of the region: “I was born and raised in northern Michigan,” she says. It was a no-brainer for them to retire to the idyllic expanse of lake they both loved.

The homeowners purchased the house in 2012. Two years after that, they met with Dean Adams from Bay Area Contracting (BAC) to remodel the main floors of their home. “We were really impressed with their demeanor and the recommendations. They just seemed like great people.” They were so pleased with the remodel that, in late 2019, they decided the basement needed a facelift and called Dean again. To bring the vision to life, the pair worked closely with Dean and BAC Design Group’s Marty Rhein.

“FOND MEMORIES OF A LAKE HOUSE MATCHED WITH A MODERN, SIMPLISTIC DESIGN MAKES THIS SPACE THE ULTIMATE GETAWAY WITHOUT BEING TOO FLASHY.”

While the two spend much of their time in the main floors of their dream lake house, their newly renovated basement provides the ultimate one-bedroom, one-bathroom hideaway and family gathering space. The space works for both guests and an extension of the upper floor for the pair. Despite its smaller size, the basement looks large and contains everything guests could need—their own custom remodeled haven. The couple knew what they wanted as they moved forward in the remodel and had an open line of communication with the crew. “I picked out a lot of the stuff myself,” one of the homeowners shares. “I had a good idea of what I wanted. Marty helped me and gave advice; he provided really good insight.” The collaboration turned the basement into both an extension of the main home and its own standalone space.

A quaint nautical theme with warm wood touches matches the main home’s aesthetics. A large striped rug, sparkling white shiplap, and muted hardware give the space a classic touch. For one homeowner, it’s a callback to the days spent at her grandmother’s cabin on Elk Lake. Fond memories of a lake house matched with a modern, simplistic design makes this space the ultimate getaway without being too flashy.

What lies on the other side of the basement doors is perhaps the main event: the sprawling, hardscaped backyard that leads to the sandy beach. Light floods in, brightening up the already bright living room. White walls, countertops, and cabinets reflect the warm sunshine. Contrasted with the natural wood touches and nautical decorations, the basement is the perfect blend of modern and rustic.

The kitchen’s simplistic black and gold hardware offers an element of shine. A small nook off the kitchen is tucked demurely in the corner, a favorite feature of the homeowners. “It was kind of unique the way Marty designed it with a wooden beam to mirror the fireplace,” the homeowners explain. The shiplap is contrasted with wood shelves and an arch, providing plenty of space and the continuation of the nautical theme. “One of the reasons I wanted such a large kitchen was when we have a family holiday, we would have room to host a lot of family members,” one of the homeowners shares.

“ONE OF THE REASONS I WANTED SUCH A LARGE KITCHEN WAS WHEN WE HAVE A FAMILY HOLIDAY, WE WOULD HAVE ROOM TO HOST A LOT OF FAMILY MEMBERS.”

Quite possibly the most unique part of the basement is the golf simulator—a mix of screen and projection brings golf courses to life for one of the homeowners. “I had always thought it would be a great place to put in the golf simulator. The remodel was the perfect opportunity to do that!” he explains. Even the doors reflect the homeowner’s love of the sport; perfectly polished wood and golf club handles blend seamlessly together. When the couple isn’t indoors, they’re enjoying the beauty that is the backyard.

The pair love to spend their time outside; their jet skis are on lifts in the water, ready to go at any moment. The basement has direct access to the expansive patio, beckoning the couple and their family and friends to dine over the water or light a fire in the built-in firepit. When the weather doesn’t cooperate with enjoying the outdoor space, the pair enjoy cribbage, poker, and other card games or a quick round of golf. It’s the perfect, flexible space for a quiet day in or a gathering space for family and friends.

The walkout connects the basement to the gorgeous patio space. Mild-colored stones allow the crystalline lake to sparkle; plenty of seating in the form of complementary colored Adirondack chairs offer stellar views. “We’re very visual people,” one of the homeowners shares. “Marty drew up the plans so everyone, including Len, were on the same page.” Various plants dot the terraced backyard, allowing beautiful bushes and flowers to stretch toward the lush Michigan sun.

Peninsula Pavers provided the hardscaping that connects the home to the sandy beach. The pair worked with Peninsula Pavers owner Len Allgaier to create the perfect backyard oasis. Previously, the home didn’t include a walkout to the backyard, something the homeowners were eager to include. “We wanted to take advantage of the outdoors,” the couple says, and their dedicated team got them just that.

The homeowners haven’t been able to take full advantage of their basement; the renovations were completed in early 2020. “We finished the basement just as COVID was coming around, so we haven’t used it as much as we originally planned,” the homeowner explains. “We like to entertain, watch sports, play games, and have a few guests over.” Now, they’re making up for lost time: “We might throw a Fourth of July party!”

The opportunities are limitless with such a beautiful entertaining space on one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. “It turned out great,” the homeowners explain. We can’t help but agree.

“WE WANTED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE OUTDOORS.”

SIXTH STREET

THEN

Fourth block of Sixth Street (looking West) Traverse City, circa 1908.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PUBLISHERS COLLECTION

Lake Michigan Energy

by Rachel Gaudette

Depending on the day, the energy coming from Lake Michigan is a calming spirit or one that inspires movement. No matter what, photographing along the shoreline fulfills my soul.

toddandbradreed.com