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“People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.”
NOTE FROM THE publisher
Summer was busy and too short! All was well until August 24th, a looming date we knew was coming: Teaghan’s date with fate to spread her wings and fly. As part of the local Rotary Youth Exchange program, last year she was accepted, educated, trained, and highly prepared for a future year of high school study in France and live with two different host families in the process. We are in awe of her fearlessness. Because she is one of only four other local Traverse City teens in the program, it made sense to bring the story to our community in the pages of this issue. As I personally researched the countries on the three continents they all recently embarked upon, I was overwhelmed at how super brave they all are, taking chances and jumping headfirst into living life. As parents we lay our entire trust in the good people of Rotary to keep them safe, and the people they meet along the way, both young and old, will forever change their lives.
On that note I want to honor my dear friend Donna Kelly, a true beautiful angel that lived amongst us, and now she has joined them in heaven. She is the sole reason that made me believe that there is GOOD in this world. We’d never met; she’d emailed to ask if she could buy a subscription for Baylife, as she was older and couldn’t get out much. And I said I’ll deliver them for you! For the last five years I would pop a few of each new issue in her mailbox on Seventh St. Over the years she sent me countless thank-you cards with the kindest words that would fill my heart. Last September at The Friendly Garden Club party a sweet little lady approached me. “Hi Teri... I’m Donna Kelly.” It took a minute... But I gave her the biggest, tightest hug and held back tears. I had finally met her in person! We followed up to make a lunch date at her house (I knew where she lived! LOL). I brought Mary’s Kitchen Port Turkey Gobblers, and we sat and chatted like old friends for hours. Over the last year we sat and chatted often. The last time I saw her not many weeks ago, she was in hospice care. We’d been texting over the last few weeks to try to get together, but this lucky lady was filling her days with cherished family. She was blessed with such a wonderful family. But they were blessed more.
One of her last texts to me said, “I am living a quiet, lovefilled life, with laughter, family, and friends celebrating LIFE as I live it with grace and gratitude hopefully until the mystery unfolds. Thanks for the hug. I’ll take all of those I can gather until they land me in a soft and lovely place.”
Had I never published this magazine I would never have crossed paths with this amazing, kind soul. She has forever left footprints on my heart. My only regret is I never got a photo of us together.
Live life with no regrets, and happy fall y’all.
Teri Gorsline, Publisher
Bittersweet Bon Voyage to our daughter Teaghan as she headed to France August 24.
Traveling alone as an ambassador of the USA. She wore her Rotary International Blazer, and her suitcase was jam packed for a year!
Dearest Donna Kelly. I’ll treasure ourforever.friendship xoxo
As high school resumes, meet five local teenagers who recently arrived in five different countries, representing the USA as ambassadors of Rotary Youth Exchange.
Traverse City native Beki Reed opens the door to her remodeled farmhouse. It’s an artistic masterpiece that will inspire and surprise you.
PHOTO BY KNIGHTING MEDIA
Place Stanislas SquareUnesco World Heritage Site, Nancy, France. Our daughter Teaghan’s new home town.
BayLife Magazine Award Winning’ and family owned, Traverse City based publication with over 39 years’ experience in the industry. We are proud to represent the people of our community. Printed in 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, Kate Mitteer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tom Gorsline, Todd and Brad Reed Photography Jason Lobdell and Samantha Dunn - Knightwing Media, Tyler Leipprandt - Michigan Sky Media
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Bethany Gulde
ADVERTISING SALES
Teri Gorsline teri@baylifenorth.com
BAY BREEZE MEDIA LLC
10966 S West Bay Shore Drive Traverse City, MI 49684 231-715-6088
BAYLIFE Magazine Number 75 is an ‘Award Winning’ 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. 2024. 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.
Chris Jonkhoff-Hater and Lindsey (Jonkhoff) Rogers, 6th generation Funeral Directors and co-owners, Dan Jonkhoff Funeral Director Emeritus and Peg Jonkhoff Administrative Services.
Fun Fiesta with the Phil - Traverse City Philharmonic Hagerty Center
July 8, 2024
TC Phil Volunteers Bill Stott, Michelle Czerwonka
Doug and Lynne Luciani, Stephanie and Sid Van Slyke Jeff and Terry Beamsley
Rory Carroll, Sebastian Garbsch, Bob Streit
Mary and Al Dillinger with Mike and Rhonda Estees
Lindy Bishop and Niki Tobin
Suzanne and Paul Jarboe
TC Phil Volunteers Garry Pierce, Debbie Rough Bernie and Barb Johnson
Sarah with husband TC Phil Executive Director Dr. Kedrik Merwin
Sally Michel, Angela Saxon
Brian Riggs, Jill Little
2nd from left Cindy Weaver - TC Phil Office Manager with TC Phil volunteers
ON THE TOWN
National Writers Series –Governor Gretchen Whitmer
City Opera House
July 31st 2024
Sarah Lucas, Marina Call
Nunzio Lupo, Deb Kuhn, Lucinda Kurtz, Oran Hesterman
Chuck Percy, Sandy and Steve Mitten, Julie Perg, Marylin Cobb
Chad Lindsey, with Left Foot Charley’s Jen and Bryan Sherpa
Donna and Bernard Rubin, Armen and Marie Cladue Shanafelt
Sally and John Ellinger, Dave Faling, Beccy D’Agostino
Roberta Teahen, Karen Houle, Kathleen O’Connell Miles and Marcy Lindberg, Tracy Coe
Nancy Roberts, Julie Brazaski Lynne Church, Jane Rhodes David and Karin Summers
Sister-in-laws
Debra and Susan Kraus
SOUTHERN ATTITUDE WITH NORTHERN LATITUDE
ACCEPT MY INVITATION TO DESIGN YOUR DREAM INTERIOR SPACES WITH ME!
Laura Millar - Owner, Interior Designer Savannah College of Art & Design
Grand Traverse Area Children’s Garden 25th Anniversary Story Book Garden Party
Behind the Traverse Area District Library August 22, 2024
Brenda and Michael Earl
Rhonda and Mike Estees with granddaughters
Peg Jonkhoff, Megan Wick, Ty Schmidt, John Van Wagoner, Johanna Schmidt
Brian Riggs, Mason Riggs and Jill Little
Kathy Gauthier, Annabella Thompson
Debbie Dacey, Sue Soderberg
Richard Kuschell, Bryan Olshore
John Van Wagoner, Sarah Kuschell, Steve Wade
Leo Lake, Jen Lake, Rebecca Lessart, Ken Scott
Laura Solomom, Jody Ikes Volmtur, with intern Will
Michele Howard, Sarah Kuschell, Donna Rubin, Peg Jonkhoff
Jeremy Treadwell, Kevin Juett, Dean Conners
ON THE TOWN
Fundraiser Season
We handpicked the hippest and happening events of the season to see and be seen at. Mark your calendars, book your babysitters, and reserve your tickets. All are worthy causes, so raise those paddles high! Dress to impress and smile for the Baylife camera to get your photo in our coveted “On the Town” pages. We’ll see you there.
Under the Moon and Stars
Wednesday, September 18th
A Masquerade Gala Benefitting Child and Family Services
Location: Bay View Weddings at Gallagher Farms For tickets: cfsnwmi.org
Uncork Up North
Friday, October 11th
A Benefit for Breast Cancer
It’s the 2nd year for this spectacular pink inspired evening. A strolling dinner curated by TC’s best chefs. Wine pairings and more.
Location: Hagerty Garage
For tickets: uncorkupnorth.givesmart.com
Dinner in the Hills – Après Ski
Saturday, September 21st
Always a fun time. A big tent overtakes the parking lot. Dinner, drinks and auctions aplenty. Dress to impress with the après ski theme.
Location: Mt. Holiday For tickets: Mt-holiday.com
Gladhander 2024 –
Captivating Color
Saturday, October 26th
Now in its 42nd year, Gladhander is one of Traverse City’s oldest and most prestigious gala events to benefit GTACS.
Location: St. Francis High School Gym For tickets: Gtacs.org
MOVER & SHAKER
Kate Mitteer, Zany Consignment
MEET
Kate Mitteer
OWNER ZANY CONSIGNMENT, EAST AND WEST BOUTIQUE LOCATIONS
2024 marks your success and 20th Anniversary. You are a true visionary. Zany has been a hidden gem for years. How did it all start? When I moved to Traverse City in 2001, there were only a couple of consignment shops in the area. They were great, but I really felt there was a missing niche, a shop that carried more quality boutique style clothing, vintage and one-of-a-kind items.
Where did the name Zany come from? It symbolized something unique or unusual and was easy to remember!
Tell us the personal significance of the West store location. The building at 318 Vine St. where we have been for the last 17 years was built by my husband’s great-great grandfather.
When did you know the time was right to open a 2nd location? Our store was bursting at the seams, and we found the perfect spot in 2012 to expand. I had a fabulous staff in place to support the shift and so we grew!
What three words best describe you? Imaginative, empathetic, and inquisitive
Do you have any hidden talents that would surprise us? At my sister’s wedding, her in-laws thought that my cousin and I were part of a hired dance group when we broke out into an impromptu dance rendition of “You’re the One That I Want.”
What would your kids tell us about you? They’ve nicknamed me OPM. Over. Protective. Mom. :)
What is one thing checked off on your bucket list? We took our kids to Europe this summer!
What’s next? To keep growing and stretching, personally and professionally.
LOCAL SCOOP
New Hot Spot
While we were squeezing every ounce of fun on our hometown turf, the sleepy town of Glen Arbor was rocking as it debuted a new one-of-a-kind hot spot! The River Club, perched on the Crystal River, is a super cool entertainment destination for the entire family—an 18-hole putt-putt golf course with three ability levels (wimp, average, and pro), healthy Mexican-inspired eats, and signature drinks from the Caddy Shack bar with riverfront and Sky Deck seating, all centered around a live stage venue. “We’re committed to providing locals and tourists a relaxing day in the park,” says owners Mike and Gina Sheldon before the opening in late June. Chuck Damman, park operations partner, says, “It’s like a party in someone’s really cool backyard.” They had many summer days with over 2,500 guests! Lucky us, it will remain open through fall so we can get in on the fun. Drive out on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays to enjoy live music. With tailgate and putt-putt parties for major college and pro football games and fall treats donuts and candy apples washed down with cider, and pumpkin- and apple-spiced margaritas. Yum!
River Club Glen Arbor 5963 S Oak St., Glen Arbor Rcglenarbor.com
Flying High
October weekends bring a unique family day out opportunity. Head to Crystal Mountain to take in the majestic fall colors as you ride on the Buck Quad Chairlift. High above boasts panoramic views of four counties on Crystal’s Scenic Chairlift Rides! Reservations are encouraged to make a reservation for a 30-minute load time window to access the chairlift. Rates are $15 per guest and $5 for children ages 3 - 6 years old. Check their website for more info.
River Club owners Mike and Gina Sheldon with Park Operations Partner, Chuck Damman
LOCAL DISH
Daily Double
There is a new kid on the block of Front St. He’s fresh and fly! But it’s not his first rodeo, complete with his cowboy hat. Meet Eric Daily of Daily Blend, an established food truck favorite for vegan and gluten-free eats at The Little Fleet. As summer ends, he’s ready to rock a new daily schedule with the Daily Blend’s permanent digs inside the Kayak, Bike & Brew building, the brainchild of his big brother Troy. Small family business is in their DNA. Their parents Mary and Brian Daily owned and operated the Kilwins on Front St. for thirty years. “That work ethic is a blessing and a curse,” he laughs. “This has been in the works for a while.” As they waited on their liquor license, it was all hands on deck. “It was
West Side Pies
Pizza lovers on the west side can rejoice once more: Nico’s Pizza & Grinders has come to our rescue, opening the door that Mancino’s closed permanently. Hallelujah to fired-up ovens and sizzling grills, ready to serve up piping hot pizza pies, grinders galore, and their famous mouthwatering bread (made fresh every day). At the helm is a true professional Nico Saco himself. It’s a tried-and-true family business. Nico’s dad owns and operates Nico’s Pizza & Grinders in Kalkaska, where it has been a beloved staple for fifteen years. When the opportunity came to fill the empty space, they jumped on it. “My sisters came from downstate to help, my mom’s been helping, and even my dad while still running Kalkaska. Not finding good help is the reason Mancino’s had to close. I’m excited to hire great people and build a reliable team.” Let’s welcome them into our community. How coincidental, it’s just in time for football (and pizza) season!
Nico’s Pizza & Grinders 13160 S West Shore Drive nicospizzami.com 231-252-4161
a productive winter. We did all the work ourselves. We are a local family and excited to be part of our community.” The fun plans are evolving by the minute. They hope to use the full-size basement for parties, catering events, and such. “I’m excited to bring a healthy alternative to this side of town. Our mantra is simple: healthy, delicious food.” It’s a groovy space, and its future looks bright! Don’t miss this cool vibe corner bar with healthy food that’s kid friendly. Did we mention the 3 – 6 p.m. happy hours on Monday-Thursday?
Daily Blend 436 W Front St. TC dailyblendtc.com
Chef and owner Eric Daily inside the Daily Blend.
Second generation owner, Nico Saco, bringing the family business to Traverse City.
Unquely
wicked GOOD EATS
Reflect Bistro
Reflect Bistro
Newsflash for when you’re craving a hearty breakfast: something mouthwatering and out of the ordinary at Reflect Bistro inside the Cambria Hotel & Suites never disappoints. It’s a true unassuming hidden gem. Parking is easy; step inside and you are warmly greeted. The waitstaff are consistently super friendly and wonderful. With your menu in hand, ponder the over-the-top options to satisfy all tastebuds. Come hungry… It’s why we suggest breakfast. The classic Eggs Benedict get a shake-up here, served on focaccia instead of boring English muffins. Carnivores delight in the Filet Mignon. The East Bay is twin smoked and Old Bay-seasoned whitefish cakes, and the surprising Italian features Prosciutto and balsamic hollandaise. There’s a choice of five omelet creations, the star of which is a seafood lover’s dream, stuffed with lobster, shrimp, and scallops. All omelets and Cambria hash plates are served with your choice of bread (focaccia, sourdough, multigrain, rye, or English muffin) and a cup of fruit topped with créme.
But wait, there’s more! Sweet tooths, welcome to your happy place! Choose from a giant cinnamon roll from Bay Bread soaked in custard and smothered in cream cheese frosting, French toast spread with Nutella, bananas, and whipped cream, and more. Shall I go on? The struggle is real to have to choose. Sample the Cherries Jubilee French toast with delectable crème brûlée custard and cherry brandy topping. Don’t forget the blueberry cobbler. Holy sugar high. To bring you back down to earth, they come with a side of potatoes. We didn’t touch on the Chef’s Favorites—there are seven, including griddle cakes and lighter side options. With all this, who would choose porridge?
Your huge, white square plate is piled high with deliciousness. I always take a box of leftovers and slip into a food coma nap. But on a Sunday, who cares? Hot tip: They take reservations. The lunch and dinner menus are just as unexpected and amazing.
Reflect Bistro 255 Munson Ave (US 31) Traverse City reflectbistro.com
IN THE KITCHEN with BLACK STAR FARMS
Polenta Serves 4-6
5 cups Water
4 Tbsp. Unsalted Butter
To Taste Kosher Salt
1 Cup Cornmeal
½ Cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for grating
1 lb. Butternut Squash, peeled and cubed
3 Tbsp. Unsalted Butter
In a medium sauce pot, bring 5 cups water to a boil with 1 teaspoon of salt. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Slowly “sift” cornmeal into water, whisking constantly with whip. Lower heat, cover sauce pot with lid, and slowly cook polenta for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Polenta con la Zucca, Funghi e Raclette
Soft Creamy Butternut Squash Polenta with Mushrooms & Raclette Cheese
Bistro Polaris at Black Star Farms 10844 E Revold Rd, Suttons Bay, MI blackstarfarms.com/bistro-polaris/
At the same time, in a separate sauce pot, melt 3 T butter. Once butter is bubbling, add cubed butternut squash, stir, seasoning lightly with salt. Adjust heat to low, cover pot with lid, and slowly cook squash until soft and tender, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. When it is fully cooked, add the squash to the cooking polenta, stirring in to completely blend the two flavors.
Finish the polenta by stirring in remaining butter and grated Parmigiano. Adjust seasoning with salt, as necessary.
In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil and butter until bubbling hot. Add mushrooms, a layer at a time, into the pan. Keep sautéing over high heat, stirring lightly. Add the ground porcini powder to the mushrooms. As soon as the mushrooms become lightly brown, add another portion of the remaining mushrooms. When all the mushrooms have been added and lightly browned, season with salt to taste. Deglaze the pan with the broth, lowering the heat. Let mushrooms simmer, cooking until tender, and pan juices thicken into a sauce.
Finish the mushroom ragu by stirring in 2 tablespoons of butter, chopped parsley and Parmigiano cheese.
To Serve
¼ lb. Leelanau Cheese Raclette, or Idyll Farms Gris or Camembert goat milk cheese
Spoon the hot butternut squash polenta into warm bowls. Top each serving of polenta with grated Leelanau Raclette or a thick slice of Idyll Gris cheese. Spoon the mushroom ragu over the polenta, and offer additional grated Parmigiano, as desired. Enjoy!
Leftover Polenta
Pour leftover polenta into a storable container and chill. When firm, the polenta may be cut into slices and pan fried in olive oil and/or butter.
Enjoy… Buon Appetito!
Estate Chef John Korycki
Pinot Noir
Happy Almost Fall!
The weather is still fantastic here in Northern Michigan and the pace slows down a bit. With the cooler evenings upon us, our tastes for wine change just a bit leading into wine with a little more weight. So, with that in mind we bring you the Humberto Canale Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from Patagonia, Argentina. This is perfect Tuesday night wine (won’t break the bank), and the estate is fifth generation, family owned and operated.
This cabernet over delivers with juicy black berry and currant flavors supported by nicely structured tannins and a long, persistent finish. This has been one of my go-to wines personally for months. Enjoy this wine with steak, pasta with a hearty red sauce, and my all-time favorite, pizza. You will love this little sleeper wine. Happy sipping.
“Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it.” —Diane von Furstenberg
LAID BACK FALL
CORNUCOPIA
Patagonia Pile Shacket $199
Coastal, Glen Arbor
Crystalriveroutfitters.com
Fall back into these local handpicked must haves to update your wardrobe. Versatile brand staples that can go anywhere. From Sunday brunch to an autumn hike. Hit the trail on your bike and onto a happy hour hayride with besties.
NUTMEG
Barbour Trilby Flower Dale $65
Bahles of Suttons Bay Bahles.net
Crossbody $245
Relish, Warehouse Mkt. TC relishtc.com
CIDER
Bohmey Straight Leg $68
Bohmey Beauty, Warehouse MRKT Bohmeybeauty.com
HARVEST
Sorel New Out ‘n’ About $130
Coastal, Glen Arbor
Crystalriveroutfitters.com
BONFIRE
Barbour Helen Fair $160
Bahles of Suttons Bay Bahles.net
Traverse City Country Club
Join the CLUB
If the thought has ever crossed your mind about enriching your family’s life by becoming members of the Traverse City Country Club, the time is now! They just unveiled a stunning clubhouse renovation and an elevated dining experience, which includes a private dining room, transformed lounge, and grill—music to my ears! When all our favorite local restaurants are understaffed and overrun with tourists and hour-long waits, it’s no problem at the club, and there is plenty of parking!
For the cherry on top, they carved out a VIP area for reservation-only elite cuisine. A luxury à la carte menu is also available for the ultimate in refined dining. Hands down, it cannot be found elsewhere in Traverse City.
They proudly debuted the upgrades with a spectacular grand re-opening extravaganza affair featuring fabulous food and flowing champagne with live music and dancing until the music stopped. In attendance was of the who’s who of TC. If your blossoming career would bloom by networking with other successful professionals, it’s a no brainer. No stuffiness included is a real thing. The old and young mingle on any given day. Every month
launches a new social calendar with activities for all. They have a wonderful kids’ playroom and much needed date nights for parents. Happy hours with live music, wine dinners, and even kid days in all four seasons. Their state-of-theart fitness center offers your dream workout experience. Need a little extra motivation? Your own personal trainer is on location paid by the hour. As we are heading into fall, you missed the palatial pool pleasures, but next summer your family can be first in line. If you had the perception that you had to be a golfer to partake, you’ll be glad to know you don’t!
The club was founded in 1915 and is fondly referred to as the gem on the hill. It’s a unique environment where members can connect, relax, and enjoy time together. You only live once, so make it worthwhile and go for it! We’ll see you at the bar. Cheers!
The club offers several types of golf and social memberships. Both membership types include use of the clubhouse, golf course, pool, fitness center, and much more. For further information, contact Susan McElduff, Membership Director, at (231) 947.9140 x116 or susanl@tcgcc.com.
Meet these five high school students who are representing Traverse City as Rotary International Foreign
Exchange Students.
Each will be attending high school in a different country spanning three continents to serve as ambassadors of the USA. Along the way, their mission as ambassadors is to share their culture and embrace a new one, helping foster global understanding—and learning monumental traits about themselves and their home country in the process. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime and more than 8,000 students participate worldwide each year. Their lives will be forever changed.
February 2024 headed to Canada for a 2-day Rotary International Conference. Pictured with Miki, an inbound exchange student from Thailand. L-R: Teaghan, Gwendolyn, Fiona, Jacob, Brady.
Departing from Traverse City to new homes on three international continents....
In August they embarked on the transformational journey. Cutting summer vacation a few weeks short, they left with a suitcase in hand, packed for almost an entire year. Each traveled alone through their gateway to the world—the familiar doors of Cherry Capital Airport. They endured hours of international flying, connecting through multiple countries, to finally reach their destinations landing on foreign soil in future time zones, sleepdeprived, maybe a little anxious, but excited with anticipation. Experiencing the journey itself would be a milestone for most Traverse City teenagers.
Fiona Colliver Central High School to Belgium
Brady Johnsen Central High School to Japan
Teaghan Gorsline West Senior High School to France
Gwendolyn Carr Central High School to Brazil
Jacob Romeyn Central High School to Argentina
“I wanted to go on exchange because I wanted to experience life in another country with different culture, food, lifestyle etc. I wanted to make connections and friendships with people from all over the world that will last a lifetime.”
Gwendolyn
São Paulo, Brazil
Language: Portuguese
Population: 22.8 million
Jacob
Santa Fe, Argentina
Language: Spanish
Population: 3.5 million
“I just thought that if I was going to do a full four years of high school, I wanted to get the most I could out of it. I didn’t really like the classes I was being taught in the US, so I thought well, if I can do the same fourth year, but in another country, I’ll gain a skill I can use for the rest of my life- fluency in another language. I also love exploring new things, so I knew that exchange was going to be a good thing for me.”
Brady
Chiba, Japan
Language: Japanese
Population: 919,729
“I chose to do a youth exchange because I wanted to experience living in another country and immerse myself in a new culture. I hope to gain wisdom, make lifelong friends, and improve my decision-making abilities while doing so. I also believe this experience will help me see challenges from a new perspective and make them feel more manageable. I’m particularly excited about learning a new language because I think it will be a valuable skill for the future.”
Teaghan
Nancy, France
Language: French
Population: 427,697
“I wanted to do the rotary student exchange because I love to travel and learn new things. Especially Foreign languages and different cultures. I would definitely say I have something called Wanderlust… it’s a German word and it’s the opposite of homesick, and literally means ‘a strong desire to travel.’”
“The reason for Rotary is it a once in a lifetime opportunity and it’s not just a year in my life its life in a year.”
Fiona
Comines, Belgium
Language: French
Population: 7,938
Arriving in the countries
of Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, and Japan, their prechosen Rotary host families warmly greeted them and drove them to a new home to be welcomed as part of their family, with a language barrier and only a little English as a plan B. For some, they will have brothers or sisters for the first time. Bigger family, smaller family? Maybe they must share a bathroom, have no walk-in closets, or discover they have no air conditioning. It’s a brand new world to take in with sights, sounds, smells, and in-your-face culture shock. Even a new currency to master! It’s a total Wizard of Oz “we’re not in Kansas anymore” moment. Their back-to-school day is in a foreign country, speaking no English. But just imagine the potential!
The message Rotary teaches them is that the most powerful force in the promotion of worldwide kindness and peace is exposure to different cultures. The world becomes a smaller, friendlier place when we learn that all people regardless of nationality desire the same basic things: a safe, comfortable environment that allows for a rich and satisfying life for our children and ourselves. Youth Exchange provides thousands of young people with the opportunity to meet people from other lands and to experience their cultures. This plants the seeds for a lifetime of international understanding.
They have been preparing for this unknown adventure for the last year with support, education, and guidance from our local Rotary Youth Exchange. Their host district is called D6290 International Rotary.
In September 2023 each student signed up with their parents’ approval to be personally interviewed multiple times by experienced local Rotarians. Tough questions are asked! Then directors Lindsey Dickinson and Kristen Salathiel carefully lay out each step to expect for the full year. If they made that round, they received a congratulatory phone call and a calendar of dates to attended mandatory events and conferences.
October was the first hurdle with the District Interview Conference at Camp Daggett in Petoskey. They mingled and networked with other teens from their district who hoped to go on an exchange. There was teambuilding, sports, and interviews. They were now called “Outbounds.” They also met “Inbounds,” teens already in the exchange program here. It’s a crucial experience as they got to pick the brains of teens already in the middle of their journey.
In January their countries were announced. That’s when it started to get real, when they realized it’s a completely foreign language to them. They all began to study.
In February they attended a two-day conference in Canada, where they stayed at a host family’s home for the first time. Back home, they also started to receive communications from their host Rotary District countries. Lastly, they slowly received WhatsApp messages from their newly chosen host families. Each exchange is unique and different. first second third fourth
In June they attended another two-day conference at NMC here in TC. The biggest and most exciting conference they attended was in July at the Summer Central States Conference at Calvin University in Grand Rapids. Here they met the “Rebounds,” the students who have just returned home from their exchanges. Inbounds, Outbounds, and Rebounds: all teenagers that connect over one common alliance.
Just from the conferences the teens bond gaining lifelong friends from all around the world.
THE FOUR-WAY TEST
Of the things we think, say or do:
Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
D6290 Inbound and Outbound kids pictured in Sault Ste. Marie, by the statue of Rotarian Herb Taylor. He founded the 4-way test that is taught for how the kids approach their exchange and making decisions while they are abroad.
The students fierce leaders Rotarian’s Kristen Salathiel and Lindsey Dickinson pictured in Wawa Ontario. District D6290 spans from Holland to Wawa.
Carpool pick up headed to the summer conference at Calvin University.
A few quotes of past exchange students in their words.
“It made me step out of my comfort zone and I gained so much confidence.”
“Take the chance if you can have it.”
“It changed my point of view of the world.”
“It will be a forever part of my life.”
“The people you meet you create bonds for the rest of your life.”
“I had no idea what I wanted to do. You learn about yourself.”
“It opens your mind that your country isn’t the only one.”
“I met people from all over the world; when would I ever do that?”
“Embrace the culture. It’s all about the people you meet.”
“It’s not easy, but it made me push myself.”
Miki’s High School Graduation pictured with her local host families.
August 2023 - Arriving into TC Rotary D6290. Rebecca from Germany, Maria from Brazil, Miki from Thailand and Taimi from Finland.
Amelia Burke’s 2014-2015 Rotary Exchange in Brazil.
Taimi from Finland (middle) with her TC Host parents Jessica and Rotarian Michael Caruso. “We have hosted 12 student’s in all.”
Hosting an exchange student can be an incredibly rewarding experience for your family, providing an international experience without leaving home. Host families provide room and board and share their lives with exchange students, involving them in family, community, and cultural activities.
For the next Rotary year 2024-2025 to study abroad 2025-2026, they are still accepting applications. But apply ASAP, as it closes at the end of September. Contact Youth Exchange Officer Carla Weaver at cweave3@gmail.com.
“We are so lucky to have this life changing program as part of our Traverse City Rotary Club,” says Youth Exchange Officer and Rotarian Carla Weaver.
Carla comes from a place of experience: her son travelled to Peru and her daughter went to Brazil, and her sister went to Denmark in the 1980s. Growing up, her father Rotarian Ken Weaver and her family hosted six students who they are still close with today. “It’s so hard to let them go even though I knew it would be wonderful for them.”
We’d like to say a big thank you to the other parents for giving us permission to share their kids journey. Nancy and Dave Colliver, Gretchen and Tommy Carr, Wendy and Jonah Johnsen and Andrea and Ryan Romeyn.
MISSION
WHAT IS ROTARY?
Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
Provide service to others, promoting integrity and advancing world understanding, goodwill and peace through our fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.
VALUES
Service Above Self, Fellowship, Diversity, Integrity, and Leadership
VISION
To be the service organization of choice with dynamic action-oriented members whose leadership and contribution improve lives in our community.
Far Right - Rotary International Student Amelia Burke in Brazil 2018-2019
Rotary International Exchange student Tristan Burke traveled to Peru 2014-2015
March 2024 - Sakura Takano’s family in Japan visiting their previous year exchange student Saki.
Miki from Thailand greeted by her host parents John Failor and Kristen Salathiel.
Michigan Sky Media
TC Skydive
by Tyler Leipprandt of Michigan Sky Media
“Skydiving has been on my bucket list my whole life, and this summer, I was finally able to jump from 10,000 feet. This photo is part of my ‘Book Release’ series, preparing for the release of my new book, MIconic this fall. Look closely and you can see me holding a mock-up of my book. If you are looking for a place to skydive, TC Skydive right here in Traverse City has the best views of the bays from 10K and did a phenomenal job. In another ‘Book Release’ opportunity (pictured), I was able to fly with my sister on an MC130-J in New Mexico, and dangle off the back of the ramp for 2 hours. My sister, Alicia, is a pilot in the Air Force, and it was an honor to be able to fly with her on a special operations aircraft. MIconic is available for preorder at michiganskymedia.com.”
Forbes Best -in-State Wealth Management Teams
We’re pleased to announce our team has been recognized as one of the 2024 Forbes Best-in-
michiganskymedia.com @michiganskymedia
PECAN
Fen Chandelier $2310
Special Order Artful Interiors
Traverse City Myartfulinteriors.com
AMBER
Knots Coffee Table $925
Golden Fowler Home Furnishings
Traverse City
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HONEYCRISP
Azari Keshan Ink
Special Order in all sizes
Golden Fowler Furnishings
Traverse City
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AUTUMN HUES
WALNUT
Shearling Chair $1999
Special Order NestIndesign Traverse City Nestindesgn.com
As the nights get shorter, the air feels briskier and the leaves start to turn the inside of our homes once again become our sacred retreat. Here are a few trends for Fall 2024 to cozy up our living spaces.
Velvet
Velvet is in. Add an accent chair or luxury throw pillows to your existing couch. Velvet adds the perfect texture, that’s warm and comfortable by nature.
Fall Leaves
It’s all about detailed décor. Shop for fall foliage, and elegant decorative pumpkins in all sizes and colors. Pepper them around your home on dining tables, coffee tables and mantles.
Candles
They instantly illuminate your home, adding warmth and an inviting ambiance. Think pumpkin spice and cinnamon candles to fill the air with the scents of the season.
Chunky Knits
Snuggly knit throw blankets in shades of creamy white or soft browns transform your couch from drab to fab.
Layers
Now pull it all together like a pro. Create layers by alternating throw blankets, pillows, pumpkins and foil foliage in wicker baskets. Finishing touch is your placement of candles. Don’t forget the fireplace.
Meant Be
to
The outside is innocuous enough: a beautiful home with a stone-framed porch, a sprawling, well-manicured yard, and oodles of history, sitting prettily on Old Mission. One can surmise that the inside would mirror its classic exterior, but just one step through the threshold proves that the interior ups the ante. What Beki Reed has created in her remodeled home is nothing short of an artistic masterpiece, playing with color, texture, light, and practicality in a show stopping way that honors the house’s history.
Beki is the fourth owner of the circa-1915 farmhouse that shares nearly two acres with a chicken coop and a carriage house, artesian spring cisterns that pump fresh water into a pond across the road, and a barn that won a Michigan Barn Preservation Network award in 2017. A Traverse City native, Beki has fond memories of the home well before it became hers: “I used to run by here and always admired it. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would own it.” After several years of living elsewhere, Beki was ready to return; following a single walkthrough, she purchased her dream home just as COVID hit.
Written by Hannah Ryder
Photography by Jason Lobdell + Samantha Dann - Knightwing Media
The global shutdown was no match for Beki’s secret remodeling weapon: her family. She, along with her daughter and her daughter’s now-husband, had flipped a home before, so they decided to tackle a larger project. With help from her son, nephew, and local artisans, the group took the entire house down to the studs and began putting it back together with a focus on repurposed furniture and décor, texture, and a one versatile color.
“My mom always said, ‘green goes with everything,’” Beki explains. A palate of myriad shades of green, splashes of blush pink, succulent reds, and complementary colors playfully hidden in floors and wallpapers make this home a stunner. Bright white walls allow light to bounce in to illuminate the warm wood of the floors, serving as a perfect backdrop to the timeless pieces throughout.
Color and pattern add pizzazz in too many ways to list. The most eyecatching is the sitting room at the front of the house, clothed head-to-toe in a luxurious shade of emerald that’s not too light and not too dark. Built-in shelves are home to some eye-catching mementos, giving them the reverence they deserve. Progressively sinking, the flooring needed to be lifted nearly three inches—a challenge met head-on and executed perfectly by her son-in-law, Zac. “I start my mornings there,” Beki says. “It’s calm, peaceful. It’s my Zen room. It holds a lot of things I cherish.”
“My mom always said, green goes with everything.’”
Green continues in clever ways, especially in a half-bath that is an homage to the region with its iconic cherry wallpaper. “I’ve never missed a Cherry Festival,” Beki boasts. The cherry canvas was painted by Beki herself and the sink is a repurposed butter churn; the magic of the home is a testament to Beki and her daughter’s industriousness and endless creativity in even the smallest spaces.
The entire house could easily be featured in design textbooks to provide a masterclass in complementary shades and light. Playing around with shapes, particularly on the floor, make the home feel inexplicably massive. It’s hard not to be drawn through each room like a maze, waiting to see what lies ahead and being delighted to see even more of the divinely eclectic style this home makes unforgettable. The laundry room’s floor is a geometric dream; the living room couches and chairs are a reupholstered vibrant royal blue; a handprinted houndstooth floor blends warm wood and crisp white; scalloped walls in an upstairs bedroom make the best of an awkwardly shaped space; 20-foot beams, reclaimed from a barn in Suttons Bay, span the family room.
No detail is spared, not even when it comes to light fixtures, which act as their own art pieces. In the stairwell, a trio of found-object pieces, including a part of an axle and a saw, were salvaged from the property and brought to life by an electrician. Similarly, a green floral phonograph light hangs over a clawfoot tub after being rescued from an antique store. The patinaed light above the laundry sink once hung in the barn. The nearly three years of hard work culminate in an innovative home that is easy to be entranced by.
What might be the most charismatic of the house is the connection to its past. The home holds so many stories and Beki was happy to let them shine, no matter how long the process took. The payoff, though, is worth every minute, especially with the original hardwood floors that were pulled out meticulously, freed of all nails, refinished, and reinstalled. “It’s a labor of love,” Beki explains, “and the home has a unique, original character to it.” For the remainder of the furniture, Beki enlisted the help of friends and her daughter to scour the state for antiques. “About 90 percent of the interior treasures are all repurposed.”
The kitchen peninsula is a prime example of upcycling.
The kitchen peninsula is a prime example of upcycling: a large countertop is bolstered by a large base of varying hues of blue. “It came from a drug store in Muskegon; maple and oak [on the countertop] were laid in alternating one-inch strips creating a means to measure various material,” Beki says. The peninsula carries the scars of its previous life, the only change being the inclusion of a lift on the bottom to accommodate cabinets. It’s hard to tell this happened; the addition is distressed to seamlessly blend into the existing base and flawlessly adjoin the marble countertops.
Parts of the original home have their own time to shine, too. The exposed brick in the half bath and dining room was unearthed during renovations, as was the upstairs’ floral wallpaper dotted with birds and butterflies that was preserved in its entirety. Wallpaper was and still is a large part of the home, even in the smallest of ways. In the family room, a frame holds several three by five pieces of wallpaper of various shades and styles once adorning the walls. “When we took the walls out, those were revealed,” Beki recalls. To honor this hidden piece of history, she took a section of each and memorialized them behind glass.
Now, Beki’s son-in-law Zac, a general contractor and licensed architect, and daughter Nora, who specializes in design, own Chartrand Building and Design. Beki is ringing in her second year of living in her historic farmhouse by hosting family and friends, filling the house with great conversation, laughter, love, and libations. “I wouldn’t change a thing,” Beki says of the remodeling process. “People that come in love it, and I love it. It’s good to be home.”
“I wouldn’t change a thing,” Beki says of the remodeling process.
BEAUTY BEYOND CONCRETE
• Natural Stone Veneer
• Manufactured Stone Veneer
• Decorative Landscape Rocks
• Clay Thin Brick
• Retaining Walls
• Paving Brick / Firepits
• Landscape Supplies
Northern Michigan’s premier supplier of stone, masonry and landscape materials Visit Our
BEADLE BUILDING
BEADLE BUILDING, NW CORNER OF E. FRONT N. CASS
THEN Cunningham’s Drugs circa 1953
PHOTO COURTESY OF BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
NOW
Former Mackinaw Brewing Company
MICHIGAN
@michiganskymedia
“Ever since Tyler Leipprandt picked up a camera, he set out to capture photos from a different perspective. From dangling off the Mackinac Bridge to capturing a stealth bomber over the Rose Bowl, Leipprandt shares his stories of how some of his most viral photos came to be. This book will take you inside his adventures and show the lengths he went to cross off the next photo on his list.”
Scan to purchase Tyler’s book!
by Todd Reed
Every chair comes in two sizes for personalized comfort!
Experience the comfort and design excellence
Norwegians have enjoyed for over 70 years, available in Northern Michigan only at...
