Traverse City BAYLIFE Magazine Nov/Dec 2024 issue 76
Mt. HOLIDAY HICKORY Hills
PAST | PRESENT | FUTURE
• Beautifully wooded, rolling hills, estate size lots 2 to 5 acres
• Cleared site, ready to build, spectacular views
• Private blacktop road
• Electric, cable/highspeed internet, natural gas
• Bring your RV, seasonal camping permitted!
• Storage building, horses allowed
• Easy drive to downtown Traverse City
• Close to stores, banks, post office, gas stations, and schools
at $129,900
• Beautifully wooded 5-acre estate-size lots with rolling hills
• Surrounded by thousands of acres of State Land!
• Maintained paved private road with electric, high-speed internet
• RV camping and storage building is permitted!
• Direct access to recreation trails, just minutes to Elk Lake or Guernsey Lake
• Easy commute to Traverse City
• Short drive to Turtle Creek Casino, Grand Traverse Golf Resort, and Meijer store in Acme
at $224,900
“I
don’t know if there’ll be snow but have a cup of cheer.” — Burl Ives
NOTE FROM THE publisher
As the holiday season saunters in, winter wonderland scenes of snow-covered trees, cheery snowmen, and Santa’s snowy north pole are everywhere. Snow is its own kind of magic. Lately, the lack of it seriously affects our treasured local ski hills, Mt. Holiday and Hickory Hills. As it’s a timely topic for both, we delve into the yesterday, today, and tomorrow of each hill in the pages ahead. Memories of both hills mean so much to so many. Our goal is to spread the word and continue the legacy for future generations.
I didn’t grow up skiing, so it’s not my thing! But in winter of 2013, I volunteered at my daughter’s school. As I helped schlep the little kids in the car line, I realized most coats had lift tags dangling. My poor four-year-old was out of the loop. I only knew of Mt. Holiday so, because of my fears she was missing out, I booked Teaghan’s first ski lesson with Mr. Paul. The next season she hit the slopes at age five as a proud downhill Holiday Race Team (HRT) member.
The ski racing moms and dads welcomed us with open arms. It was truly overwhelming and apparently much needed. Friendships forged in the bitter cold became a huge part of our life every winter. Everyone digs in together. It was a crucial element to survive the tundra of gray days. Sunday Race days meant getting up, bundling up, and getting out on the hill. It didn’t hurt that Mt. Holiday had the T-Bar with adult beverages as an extra bonus.
We were HRT, and the rivalry of the kids across town—The Grand Traverse Ski Club of Hickory Hills—was real! At every away race, GTSC kids always kicked our butt! It’s all good. The camaraderie and respect for our fellow TC neighbors is there deep down. GTSC are die-hard parents and kids alike that share the same love, dedication, and history of what Hickory Hills means to their community. They show up, they volunteer, and they cheer. The secret to their success is the tow ropes. As the years progress, it’s surreal to watch these kids grow up and race each other as TC West and TC Central high school students when it all began on these little hills.
I’d also like to say a special thank you to our community ski coaches: Amy Kudary, Libby Shutler, Eric Shutler, Ben Ferris, and Ed Johnson.
Have the most magical holiday season and don’t forget to pray for snow!
Teri Gorsline, Publisher
“Taken at the top of Snow Flake Trail and overlooking the majestic blue waters of East Grand Traverse Bay. You can see why this ski hill has fended off buyers who want to develop the land for homes with a water view. We hiked up the hill early on the sunny morning of the first day of January 2020. Who could have predicted the world would stop in its tracks just a few months later with COVID 19.”
Photo by Erin Attwood - Dune Life Photography
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, Chris Barsheff
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tom Gorsline, Todd and Brad Reed Photography, Rachel Straughen Photography, Courtney Kent Photography, Wild Juniper Photography, Erin Attwood - Dune Life Photography, 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
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR AND INQUIRIES
editor@baylifenorth.com
@BayLifeMagazine @BayLifeMagazine
BAYLIFE Magazine Number 76 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.
ON THE TOWN
Child and Family Services
Under the Moon and Stars
Masquerade Gala
Bay View Weddings at Gallagher Farms
September 18, 2024
Brad and Sally Oleson
Harry and Tracy Faulkner
Ryan and Erin Fedorinchik, Steve Mcgregor & Eva Vandepool, Donn and Lori Westman
Hon. Richard Griffin and Connie Deneweth, Amy Endresen and Bob Barnard
Mark and Jess Wagner, Derek and Kara Gelven, Shelby Newhouse-Taplin and Mitch Taplin Patrick Lavis and Adam Brown Laura Lepinski, Pam Kegley, Maggie Kegley
Margerie Smith, Emma Smith, Raul Gomez, Claudia Lounis Natalie Brown and Paula Oleson
Courtney and Ben Watts, Danielle and Ryan Black, Sarah and Michael Kebler
Allyn Kay and Bob Cornwell
The Fabulous Staff of CFS
Steve and Paige Futrell, Jan and Jim Tuohy
ON THE TOWN
Traverse City League of Entrepreneur Gentleman
Fall Fundraiser Social
Yuba Vineyards, Williamsburg
September 28, 2024
WILD JUNIPER PHOTOGRAPHY
Whitney Tann, Kyle Ascione
Check Presentation – to Ryann Nava, wife and the family of fallen hero local US Marine Miguel Nava
Teri and Tom Gorsline Chaise Mangrello, Katy Hanrahan
Chelsey Lynn and Chad Volant, Luke and Maddie Hessler, Bryce Clark
Josh Beechcraft, Joel Strehl, William Saputo, Chad Volant, Nick Mueller, Luke Hessler
Roman Albaugh, owner of The Bartending Company
Meg Paxton, Madison Clark and Lane Reinhart
Hunter Holmes, Stephanie Walters, Parker Homes
Theresa Newton, William Saputo, Julie Fitzyrk
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
Standing by to Assist Veterans
An Evening of Valor Charlie Golf One
Grand Traverse Resort
October 5, 2024
Sean and Cathy O’Connor, Wendy and Jim Harvey
Teri Gorsline and Laurie Fischer
Brad and Emi King
Former Air Force Staff Sargeant Nati Kolb with husband Joel.
Holly Hack and Eric Nittolo
Kara and Scott Schulz
Christina Dunklow and Kate Reichard
Michael and Jessica Caruso
Scott and Jamie Herzberg
Liz Belt, Scott Herzberg, Byron Pettingrew, John Reid
Grand Traverse Yacht Club Foundation
Oyster Clambake
Grand Traverse Yacht Club
September 14, 2024
Doug and Kim Clark, Suzanne Mueller
Charlie Gabor, May-lis Andrus
Donna Folgarelli, Shirley Maddalena, Christine Zenn and Renee Ascione
Mac Van Stratt and Chris Horvath
John Loher, Mango Million, Scott Monteith
Michael Richmond, Mark Nugent, Jay Craft
Amanda Renkiewicz, Teri Gorsline, Angela Chapman
Joe Mallonee with mom Donna Mallonee
Cathy Newman, Tammi Hollis, Jenny
Allyn Kay and Bob Cornwell, Phillip and Jay Moorhead Sam Bender, Suzanne Mueller
Stephanie and Stephen Stearman, Tammi Hollis, Alex Hutchinson
Photo by Jim Sorbie
MOVER & SHAKER
Chris Barsheff, Garfield Township Manager
Chris Barsheff MEET
GARFIELD TOWNSHIP MANAGER, GARFIELD TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE, 28 YEARS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
Congratulations on your new title as the first Manager of Garfield Township. What do you see as your role? Number one is customer service. Before we had a supervisor, who was stretched too thin with every department. This is a brand new position created with the goal to effectively take on the challenges that arise in the day-to-day operations. I’ll tirelessly work to support the elected officials and the board of our community.
Your background is in law enforcement. What will differ and what experiences can help? With public service law enforcement, my one job focus was safety. Safety is still one, but now I have so many other
facets. Housing, economic and recreation. This broadens the scope as a new career path. My networks are in place of people I’ve built relationships with. I will still cross paths with them, but with new challenges. So, those connections I’ve gained are key. I can hit the ground running.
Are there any words of wisdom that you live by? Work hard. I have always told my kids that. Also, being in law enforcement for so many years it’s negative energy can take its toll. I always told my guys, focus on the positive!
How did you get to Traverse City? Growing up my family loved vacationing here, boating and swimming on Silver Lake. In 1985,
at age 11, my family moved here from Fraser, MI. After I graduated with honors, I stayed local and attended NMC and pursued a degree in law enforcement. In 1996 I was hired as a full time deputy with GTSD, and I married my wife, Suzy. We were blessed with a son in 2001 and daughter in 2004. I’ve always believed strongly this is the most perfect place to raise a family.
Tell us something that may surprise us about you? In my senior year of high school in 1992, I decided to try the sport ice hockey. I continued playing in our local men’s league for many years and even coached youth hockey.
LOCAL SCOOP
Diamonds are ForEVER
Welcome inside Everjewl, a new hidden gem to discover inside the MRKT Warehouse on Hall St. It’s a shiny and sassy spin-off store for Julie Terwilliger to indulge her passion for jewelry. “To make it each moment shine a little brighter,” she smiles.
Groundbreaking Barns
Following up from our story in summer celebrating The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns, a groundbreaking ceremony took place on October 25th, marking the next phase of park redevelopment. This $5 million-dollar project will transform Barn 206 with classrooms, an event space, and more. Additionally, a two-story connector will be built between the Historic Barn and Cathedral Barn (Barn 204), providing shared lobbies and universal elevator access. Construction starts this fall, with completion expected by fall 2025.
Her day job is creating and molding precious metals, fine diamonds, and gems as co-owner with her sisters Sarah and Emily at Wexford Jewelers in Cadillac Open since 1995, it’s a master trade that was passed down from their father. “I love what I do with my sisters, but I wanted my own space. It’s a fun playland that you can come for a little retail therapy with grab-and-go pieces.” With pricing that won’t break the bank, its timing for holiday gifting is perfect. And you’re shopping local! For the last year, Julie had dipped her toe in TC doing pop-up stores. But when this empty retail space “popped up,” she felt it was meant to be. She even carved out a corner studio for her luxury welding tools. “It’s for custom permanent jewelry I create by appointment.” The store is super swanky with elegant dark walls and chic décor. And it’s a super cute shopping spot with both Relish boutique and trendy coffee shop Hexenbelle right next door. Treat yourself and get your sparkle on!
MKT Warehouse, 144 Hall St.
Meet Beth Karczewski - She is the fabulous fundraising consultant who guided the board to success with the Capital Campaign.
Members of the Board and Directors of The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park breaking ground.
LOCAL
DISH
Gathering the family round a table to enjoy a delicious feast doesn’t have to be stressful. Make this the year you break free from the chains of the kitchen stove and sink. We rounded up a few alternate options but make haste: they all need to be pre-booked!
RESERVE A TABLE
ARTISAN
615 E. Front St.
Savor a Thanksgiving four-course Prix Fix menu with unconventional choices like slow-braised beef and shrimp cocktail. Hours: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Adults $75 Kids $35
Reserve online artisantc.com
AERIE
Grand Traverse Resort
A family favorite Thanksgiving buffet with a delectable brunch spread: carving stations, salads, entrées, and sides. Don’t forget the pastries, breads, and desserts. Yum! Hours: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Adults $52 Children ages 4-12: $18. Children under 4 are complimentary with adult brunch.
Reserve online grandtraverseresort.com
BLACK STAR FARMS - Bistro Polaris
10844 E Revold Rd., Suttons Bay
An elevated menu serves four to six people and includes local free-range turkey, Black Star Farms Apple Hard Cider brine with cider gravy, stuffing, whipped potatoes, sides, and much more.
Order by November 12 at 5 p.m. Pick up on November 26 between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Order online blackstarfarms.com
S2S SUGAR 2 SALT
Village at Grand Traverse Commons 1371 Gray Drive Suite 300
Serves four with leftovers! Includes brined and sous vide turkey breast, smashed 3 potatoes— Yukon gold, sweet, and blue potatoes—butternut squash, acorn squash, Brussels sprouts, smoked butter, and much more. Dessert includes pumpkin cheesecake, caramel, and candied pecans.
Order ASAP—limited amount available Pick up: November 27, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Order online s2s-sugar-2-salt.square.site THANKSGIVING TO GO
Unquely
R
wicked GOOD EATS
Trattoria Stella
Trattoria Stella
In Traverse City, one restaurant stands alone as iconic. Trattoria Stella is celebrating twenty years as a pillar of success inside The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Esteemed and cherished, it has remained stellar. Inside its famous stone arches, the ambiance never fails to transport you to the romance of Italy with spectacular food, world class wine, and unsurpassed hospitality. The secret sauce is no doubt its fearless leaders, co-owners Master Sommelier Amanda Danielson and award-winning Executive Chef Myles Anton
In 2004 they burst on the scene touting farm to table eats with a daily changing menu. Partnering with local farmers he knew by name, Chef Myles created fresh harvested dishes full of vegetables, fruits, and herbs shining in their peak and adding bountiful mouthwatering flavor to carnivorous meats and homemade pastas.
“The word stella is Italian for star and symbolizes the spirit of exploration that guides us. It perfectly appends the idea of the trattoria being a casual regional restaurant where sharing a simple pizza at the bar can be as meaningful an experience as enjoying a more elaborate dinner.”
- Amanda Danielson
Trailblazing a movement and putting Northern Michigan on the foodie map years before it became a worldwide practice, the dynamic duo never rests on their laurels, constantly evolving and further educating themselves and their long-time loyal and trusted team.
While both balance family life with teenage kids in tow, they give back to their community tenfold by sponsoring and serving up hot plates and fine wine at charity fundraisers. In the hospitality industry, you always must be “on,” and they set the standard. It’s a true testament to their dedication and hard work that they are still going strong. Cheers to the next 20!
Trattoria Stella
830 Cottageview Dr. Ste. G01, TC
COURTNEY KENT PHOTOGRAPHY
Celebrating 20 years. Co-owners - Executive Chef Myles Anton and Master Sommelier Amanda Danielson
Maiale al Balsamico con Zucca Delicata e Cavoletti
Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Balsamic Glaze with Roasted Delicata & Brussels Sprouts
Serves 4
12 Brussel sprouts, trimmed to individual leaves
1 tbs. unsalted butter
1 tbs. extra virgin olive oil
To taste kosher salt
1 each Delicata squash, halved, seeds removed, - sliced & roasted in 400° oven until caramelized & sweet - about 10 minutes
1 tbs. extra virgin olive oil
To taste kosher salt
3 fresh rosemary sprigs butcher’s string
½ cup balsamic + rosemary marinade (see recipe)
1–1¼ lbs Heritage Berkshire pork tenderloin
2 tbs. extra virgin olive oil + additional for drizzling
To taste rosemary salt (see recipe)
Directions
Make the Rosemary Salt and Balsamic Marinade recipes. Pre-heat grill on high.
Make a rosemary brush by tying the sprigs together with butcher’s string.
In a small pot with lid, melt butter and olive oil over very low heat. Add Brussels sprout leaves, seasoning lightly with salt, to taste. Cover pot with lid to “sweat” the Brussels sprouts, cooking them thoroughly without any color, until soft and sweet, about 4 to 6 minutes. If at any point the leaves become too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water – this creates a buttery sauce with a “creamy” consistency.
Drizzle pork lightly with olive oil and season with rosemary salt. Grill the pork tenderloin, using the rosemary brush to glaze the pork with balsamic marinade, creating a nicely charred crust. Turn and rotate the pork evenly and grill to your desired doneness. Once pork is cooked, set aside onto a warm platter to “rest” a few minutes before cutting or slicing, to ensure the juices “relax” into the meat.
Balsamic + Rosemary Grilling Marinade Makes 1 cup
2 tbs. extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. chopped garlic
1 tsp. fennel seeds, crushed
1 tsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
½ tsp. fresh sage, chopped
2 cups 3- to 4- year aged balsamic vinegar
In a small pot over low heat, sauté garlic in olive oil until golden. Add crushed fennel seeds and herbs. Sauté for one minute. Add 2 cups balsamic vinegar, bring to a boil. Simmer to reduce balsamic by half, down to 1 cup. Chill and refrigerate until ready to use.
Rosemary Salt Makes ½ cup
1/2 oz fresh rosemary, about 2 – 3 sprigs
1 lemon
1/2 cup course kosher salt
1 tsp. black pepper, freshly cracked
Remove leaves of fresh rosemary from their sprigs. Roughly chop the rosemary. Finely grate the zest of 1 lemon over the rosemary. Cover the rosemary with the kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Finely chop all ingredients together, infusing the flavors and aromatics of the fresh rosemary and lemon into the salt.
To Assemble The Dish:
Spoon the Brussels sprout leaves around the center of the plates. Spoon the roasted delicata squash over the Brussels sprouts.
Slice the pork tenderloin, arranging the pork over the roasted vegetables. Spoon any collected juices over the pork and drizzle additional olive oil, as desired. Serve and enjoy… Buon Appetito!
Estate Chef John Korycki
Happy Holiday Season
This is the time of year we spend time with our family and friends, enjoying great food and certainly some bubbles. Celebrate this season with Baron Fuente Grand Reserve Brut Champagne. Baron Fuente is a small family owned (Grower Estate) Champagne house. Their Grand Reserve Brut is our Champagne feature for the holidays. On the nose, you will find enticing aromas of baked apples and brioche. The palate features white peach and apples with a hint of lemon zest on the finish.
It’s a charming and versatile wine at a very reasonable price. Remember, Champagne is not only great for celebrating, it is also great with many foods from cheeses, seafood, chicken and of course turkey. Enjoy.
WHISPER MY FAVORITE WORDS: “I’LL BUY IT FOR YOU.”
When your husband asks what you want for Christmas, here are a few ideas that are right down the street: sparkly things to make you happy, a cozy sweater and fur boots to keep you warm and stylish, and a little something special to watch time fly!
WISH
Mitten Diamond Necklace $1,150 Korner Gem, TC + Frankfort Kornergem.com
WANT
.16ct Diamond Hoops $175
Wexford Jewelers, Cadillac Wexfordjewlers.com
NEED
Shinola Petoskey
Birdie $700
Minors North, TC
Minorsnorth.com
FANCY
Pajar Italy Fur Boots $525 Robert Frost, TC Robertfrostquality.com
DESIRE
Custom Ring Federico’s Jewelers, TC Federicojewelers.com
HOPE
Alp n Rock Sweater $348 Robert Frost, TC Robertfrostquality.com
TRENDING NOW
The Great Lakes Children’s Museum New Location + New Name
For the last 18 years, the Great Lakes Children’s Museum has been a mainstay by providing educational and interactive fun for families. But as the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center is set to break ground in 2025, the popular kids’ place is slated to be demolished. The search for a new home began with a needs list of ample space, easy parking, and an accessible location. It’s a big challenge for a museum that’s a nonprofit organization managed by a local board of directors who volunteer their time to make a difference in our community. What about inside the Grand Traverse Mall?
The museum secured funding from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, along with the Art and Mary Schmuckal Family and Les and Ann Beiderman foundations coming to the rescue. “With the funding, we are able to implement new activities and attractions,” says Executive Director Tracie MacPherson.
While they are excited to have a brand-new slate, the most popular exhibits are making the trip across town. “We’re moving the water table because people love it. The slides and the Coast Guard helicopter are coming too.”
The new facility will be called the Curiosity Place powered by the Great Lakes Children’s Museum. The space boasts 8,000 square feet, much larger than the old M22 location. New exhibits will come and go over the next three to five years the museum will be housed there.
It’s a new trend across the country. With the mass migration of retail stores closing in mall locations due to online sales, these spaces are reimagined for community engagement and repurpose. If all goes according to plan, they’ll be moved into the mall and open for business sometime before the holiday season. The Power of Play store has already opened with a selection of educational and fun toys for all ages.
Mon – Sat. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sun 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Greatlakeskids.org
The Great Lakes Children’s Museum along M22 is now permanently closed.
The popular water table will be moving to the mall location.
The Power of Play Store has already opened in the mall location.
The Coast Guard helicopter will be coming along too.
A Tale of TWO SKI
SKI HILLS
Winter in Traverse City is magic and joy. (That is a direct quote for Tonya Lewandowski, Executive Director of the Grand Traverse Ski Club). When the snow begins to fall, its welcome arrival signals that our two local ski hill communities will thrive. On Team West is the beloved Hickory Hills. Hidden in plain sight, it’s surrounded by schools and the walkable Slabtown neighborhood. Hickory’s 125 acres is sandwiched in the middle of a public forest and meadows, yet it’s only a mile and half from downtown. On Team East lies Mt. Holiday, perched in the middle of the bustling Holiday Hills housing development packed with families craving easy access to recreation.
“I think Traverse City is unique in that we have two ski hills. The fact they both have accessible neighborhoods makes it something very special. They bring a huge playground of independence. It’s an after-school experience that’s unique. Accessibility and affordability have been the mission of both ski hills since the get-go. It’s key to both their tradition and legacy,” explains Laura Ness, Co-Founder and President of Preserve Hickory.
When the snow starts to fly, both hills come alive with kids of all sizes ready to rip down the slopes. The lodges burst at the seams with moms and dads meeting and greeting once again like a huge family reunion, all against the backdrop of a warm and toasty fireplace with hot cocoa aplenty. While the faint-hearted hibernate, our die-hard winter families are the reason we survive the season, with a little rivalry thrown in to claim who is king of the hill.
The epic difference in the tale of two ski hills is how they are owned and operated.
HICKORY HILLS – Municipally owned by the city since 1952. The Grand Traverse Ski Club was formed to manage the hill. They are one of only a handful left in the country run by municipal funding. The challenge is that the city has so many other projects. In 2010 Hickory was considered more of a liability, and in 2012 the city commission voted to close it. “It’s been continuously owned through ebbs and flows of government leadership, through high and low economies. To have kept those lights on is a tribute to the community that rallied behind them,” says Laura Ness.
MT. HOLIDAY – Nonprofit formed in 2001. The goal for Tom Hall (son of Dr. James Hall, one of the original founders of Holiday Hills) and Denny Hoxsie, was to raise $1.5 million dollars to save the hill from being sold and developed. Mt. Holiday exists in donations, grants, and revenue profit. It is also one of only a handful of true nonprofit ski resorts in the country. “Mt. Holiday has been a part of my family for generations. My wife Judy and I support this campaign so that future generations of families can continue to experience Mt. Holiday in meaningful ways,” explains Denny Hoxsie, Mt. Holiday Board Member.
Throwback cuteness - Little Kellan and Macaire Kudary, daughters of Coach Amy Kudary at Mt. Holiday
Our kids learn to ski at HRT and GTSC but as high school students they become teammates. Peppi Race Hickory Hills 2024
Throwback 2013Lukas Myers, Sunday Raceday at Mt. Holiday.
March 2024 - Hickory Alumni that all made it to Junior Championships in Vail, Colorado.
History HICKORY HILLS
In 1950 Loren Bensley, a savvy Traverse City politician and business owner, had a vision. Drawing inspiration from a newspaper article describing Howelsen Hill, a small city-operated ski hill in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Bensley believed “We can do that.”
Ci-Bo Hill was Bensley’s first introduction to skiing in Traverse City. It was located just south of the intersection of Division St and 14th St. The unique name combined two words that made up the partnership: Ci, short for “city,” and Bo, short for “Board of Education.” With huge success in numbers but lack of knowledge in how to ski, Bensley enlisted the help of an experienced German skier, Hans “Peppi” Teichner, who was new to the area, and approached the Record-Eagle to sponsor the ski school lessons. It was the birth of the Record-Eagle Ski School that still operates today. The Ci-Bo Hill was outgrown after only one season. More space was needed.
Loren Bensley earned the title of the father of Traverse City skiing after he transferred his enthusiasm and extraordinary leadership into a bigger, better, and more permanent home for skiers with Hickory Hills, named for the hard hickory wood then used to make skis. Five runs opened—one black diamond, one beginner, and three intermediate slopes—with each trail named after the men who were instrumental in Hickory’s development: Pete, Swede, Buck, and Jack. The fourteen-hundred-square-foot ski lodge was designed by local architect Orus Eash, built with donated materials, and constructed in just ninety days by volunteers that brought their own tools. Cherryland Electric Cooperative powered Hickory Hills’ first lights to illuminate dark winter nights. It was the first ski area in the state of Michigan to debut night skiing.
Bensley was honored as Traverse City’s 1959 Citizen of the Year. He was inducted into the Grand Traverse Ski Club Hall of Fame in 2008.
“The father of Traverse City skiing.”
The Ci-Bo Hill was outgrown after only one season. More space was needed.
BENSLEY FAMILY
Loren Bensley in front of Hickory’s Lodge.
Loren Bensley, Lud Garthe, Buck Williams, John Norton
On January 3, 1952, Hickory turned on the lights, tow ropes and lit a fire in the lodge.
Cherryland Electric Cooperative powered Hickory Hills’ first lights to illuminate dark winter nights.
Jerry Stanek, Dave Kipley, Len Ligon, Dave Merrill and Jim Merrill at the top of Buck.
Grand Traverse Ski Club volunteers and timing toboggan. Keith Hazelton, Paul Ames and Dick Babel
Loren Bensley at CI-BO Hill.
History MT. HOLIDAY
In 1949 a group of local businessmen obtained permission to construct a ski run on state land. Originally part of the Fife Lake State Forest land, the bay view hills were cleared as part of a prison labor program. Holiday Hills was born with a single ski run with rope tows made from farm equipment to get people up the hill. The lodge was built a few years later with repurposed timbers from the torn-down Coast Guard Air Station that stood where Cherry Capital Airport stands today.
Photographs show Holiday Hills as a mainstay for family recreation. Over the years, the hill changed hands to private owners including the Sutton family but in 1985 was purchased by the Brosch family and secured its place in the heart of owner Warren Brosch. Warren and his wife Sue owned a hotel downtown and teamed up with a few other hotel owners to buy the old ski hill down the road, thinking it may help fill up hotel rooms. As the funny story goes, Warren was the only one who showed up at the bank for the closing that day.
Under the Brosch ownership, the name changed to Mt. Holiday. It became a labor of love; they added chair lifts and a tubing hill, bringing the hill back to life in all its glory. Warren became a legend with his passion for keeping the winter wonderland going strong until 1999 when, in a cruel twist of fate, Warren died in a tragic accident while working for the 2000 season.
Family members kept the ski area open with a goal to find a buyer who would keep the ski business going and not develop the land. With a fear that the cherished mountain would be lost forever, a team of tenacious volunteers led by Tom Hall and Denny Hoxie launched a fundraising campaign called Save our Slope to raise $1.5 million dollars in community funds to purchase it, forming the nonprofit corporation Mt. Holiday, Inc.
1962 — Tom and Betty Lane Family.
Mid 50s — Lorna and Paul Ameel with 7 children. Print ad from 2002 Save our Slope campaign
Barbara Sherberneau Loveland
“Holiday Hills was born with a single ski run with rope tows made from farm equipment to get people up the hill!”
Marilyn Rennie
Lorna Stultz, Cherie Gibson
1960 — Dick Smith, Mary Smith, Bonnie Smith-Kurtz, Ron Smith, Ed Smith.
The Present HICKORY HILLS
The Hickory Hills your family enjoys today was born when a few dedicated parents partnered with local businesses. In 2010 as the city was turning against the seasonal liability, parents stated, “We need it to survive. Period!” “We could see it coming. It was looking tired and run-down,” says Laura Ness. They needed a plan to re-kindle the magic of what it meant to the community, both young and old.
In 2010 they formed the nonprofit Preserve Hickory. Its original purpose was to copyright and publish Light the Night: A History of Hickory Hills, a historic pictorial book. The original idea was to raise funds to produce the book with the proceeds going toward helping the hill. It snowballed into something bigger. By honoring the trailblazers telling the story of the magic of skiing Hickory, it awoke a sleeping giant of memories for generations of locals of days gone by, forever footprints left on the treasured hill.
The book’s exposure was the catalyst to the next chapter. They received a $1.5 million dollar pledge from the city of Traverse City’s Brown Bridge Trust Parks Improvement Fund for significant capital improvements including a new lodge, parking facilities, and trail enhancements. They had to raise a matching $1.5 million dollars to claim the city funds. The community rallied as it blew up into an epic movement. The Preserve Hickory board even hosted the breaking ground ceremony. In 2018 the new and improved Hickory Hills was unveiled.
In 2023 Hickory Hills’ new 3.3 kilometer Nordic course became the first approved cross-country course in Michigan’s lower peninsula. This designation means that a course meets International Ski and Snowboard Federation standards and can host sanctioned races. It was a plan in the works for years between the city, Preserve Hickory, and the Vasa Ski Club.
Light the Night: A History of Hickory Hills was written by West High School students Molly Tompkins and Ryan Ness as a community service project. The book is based on more than seventy interviews and features treasured photography from Jack Bensley. It was published in 2011.
Preserve Hickory board members and community leaders breaking ground in 2018.
Laura Ness, Co-Founder and President of Preserve Hickory
Digging deep is where the problem lays. Making snow has always been a critical and costly problem.
The Present MT. HOLIDAY
As a nonprofit, Mt. Holiday is always at the mercy of fundraising and mother nature. On the surface are improvements you can see: the vintage chair lifts are from the 1960s and were already repurposed from Schuss Mountain on arrival. In 2023 the blue chairlift was completely reconditioned from parts from a decommissioned chairlift out west, and the yellow lift got some upgrades too. On the hill, old lighting has been replaced with more efficient LED lights. The lodge got new carpet, and they launched a whole new concept by building an outdoor beer garden to bring more exposure to the fact the bar was open and serving.
Digging deep is where the problem lays. Making snow has always been a critical and costly problem. The underground equipment snowmaking infrastructure outlived its lifecycle. In 2020 the board reached out to a worldwide leader in snow making to customdesign the next generation for Mt. Holiday. The improvement plan laid the foundation for critical community support, and capital campaign fundraising kicked into gear. Last year, Mt. Holiday was awarded $604,700 dollars in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for infrastructure upgrades. They broke ground on these updates in July 2024 with $1.25 million to invest and spend wisely in the area’s five snowmaking pillars: water capacity, pumping capacity, piping capacity, electrical capacity, and snowmaking capacity.
The new infrastructure plan broke ground in July 2024.
“Our goal is to be around for the next 75 years!”
The Future HICKORY HILLS
“Our goal is to be around for the next 75 years,” says Tonya Lewandowski. “It’s survived because of the people. The names have changed, the outfits have changed, but it’s still about kids from all walks of life having fun, being independent and safe. For our volunteers, Hickory Hills is where their heart is. It’s muti-generational. The motivator is being a part of something, contributing and giving back. They are role models for our kids. It’s such a gift that our city has. It’s pure joy. If we continue to understand the history, we honor the legacy that has been given to us.”
New things on the horizon this season include a scanner system for ski passes. Over on the Nordic trail side, partnering with the Vasa Ski Club, the course certification brings more exposure to host national races. In January, they hosted a junior qualifier for the first time in the lower peninsula.
A positive step is a collaboration with the city. A Hickory Hills Advisory Committee is being formed to listen to the wants and needs of the public. Engagement is critical for the ski hill and ski club while climate change also continues to be a topic.
Don’t forget: Hickory opens at 2 p.m. on TCAPS half days and early release days. On TCAPS scheduled days off, they open at 11 a.m.
“We are moving the mountain into the future, to ensure that bright smiles will continue to light up the hill.”
The Future MT. HOLIDAY
Exciting Update: “In preparation for this ski season, we are continuing to make progress on our snowmaking infrastructure. We’ve installed a new pump and started construction on the new pump house. We’ve refurbished and purchased more than a dozen new snow guns. They came with upgrades, including a new piping system to keep up with the demand. We replaced one pump putting out 375 to 475 gallons of water per minute with two pumps putting out 800 gallons of water per minute. It’s game-changing; we had to make those improvements,” says Jim Pearson, Mt. Holiday Executive Director.
Running on 60-amp circuits and with 125 pounds of pressure, they’ll ensure the slopes are blanketed with fresh snow all season long!
“We are moving the mountain into the future to ensure that bright smiles will continue to light up the hill. It’s been a trusted community anchor for decades. Parents confidently drop off their kids. Today more than ever they need a safe haven to make friends, develop healthy habits, and be engaged in sports and life away from their screens. Together, we are building a premier recreational destination that will benefit our community for generations to come,” says Aric Armbruster, Mt. Holiday Board President and HRT dad.
Please help Mt. Holiday in the “Final Flurry” campaign as they aim to raise $200,000 to bring these state-ofthe-art snowmakers to life! Your support will directly enhance winter recreation for families and friends in our community, making every visit to Mt. Holiday more enjoyable. Mt.holiday.com
Morning Sunrise Over Hickory Hills
by Tyler Leipprandt of Michigan Sky Media
“The sun rises over downtown Traverse City and lights up the slopes at Hickory Hills.” More of my photography of Northern Michigan and the entire state can be found in my new book called MIconic. Each chapter highlights a different region of Michigan and has stories to go with some of my most viral photos. Check it out at michiganskymedia. com or scan the QR code.
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michiganskymedia.com @michiganskymedia
“A cocktail done right can really show your guests that you care.” - Danny Meyer
RAISING THE BAR
Every cool, calm, and collected host knows old-school bar essentials are a holiday tradition. Nothing’s more important than being prepared for entertaining at home, from an intimate dinner party to the biggest bash of the year.
BOTTOMS UP
Raising the Bar Cocktail Guide $25 Horizon Books, TC Horizonbooks.com
Stone Coaster $12 My Secret Stash, TC Mysecretstash.com
SLOSHED
Jumbo 4 Ball Ice Tray $15
Nifty Things, TC + Alden Niftythingsonline.com
BOOZY
Black + Gold Rolling Bar $614 Golden Fowler Furnishings, TC Goldenfowlerhomefurnishings.com
HOME
2024 Christmas Decorating Trends
Regal and royal never go out of style. The streaming show dramas Bridgerton and The Gilded Age have brought backdrops of palatial palaces into our living rooms. Bold fabrics and lavish wallpapers with gold accents mirror the opulent Baroque era. Christmas tree embellished in this period are pure vintage. Hot Tip – Hit the thrift shops for these treasures.
Big pink bows and ribbons have been making a comeback since Barbie’s epic success. While classic bows and ribbons are a staple of Christmas, the fresh new colors are premiere pastels and pinks. Think Marie Antoinette Rococo vibes. Hot Tip – Make your own bows.
The trend of disco has been prevalent all year with designers. As we enter the season to adorn our homes with sparkles, every store Christmas aisle is filled to brim with disco ball baubles to hang, dangle, and light up the night. Hot Tip – Forget ugly sweaters: throw a disco party!
a modern
CLASSIC
There’s a Danish word that’s become quite popular across the US: hygge. Pronounced “hoo-ga,” the word conveys the idea of coziness and general contentment, something that living on Old Mission already engenders. For a husband-and-wife duo, their custom home needed to be a sanctuary for not only themselves but their friends and family. The result is a stunning, luxurious home at the intersection of geometric style and sumptuous comfort—with plenty of hygge.
Written by Hannah Ryder
Photos by Erin Attwood - Dune Life Photography
THE THREE BED, three-and-a-half bath house was created by the stellar team at Bay Area Contracting (BAC) led by Dean Adams. “Everyone we asked said BAC is the company to go with,” one of the homeowners shares. “The final product is exactly what we wanted for our house.” Throughout the home, clean, smooth lines are softened by texture in the form of decadent pillows, dynamic wallpaper, warm colors, and endless natural light. A large entertaining space is ready for any number of guests but is also cozy enough to enjoy a quiet moment on the sofa. When guests are expected, the well-appointed kitchen any meal from a snack to a several-course dinner.
The exterior of the home hints at the casual comfort of the inside with light tan siding and dark accents. BAC took a unique spin on a traditional Craftsman house by bringing together the homespun roots of the home’s exterior design and the chic modernity of the interior. The result is a study in down-to-earth elegance that is primed for any number of guests and events. Situated on a corner lot but far enough from the road to feel secluded, the home acts as an oasis tucked against lush trees, illuminated by the final rays of the sun each evening.
The indoors is just as impressive in its classic-clean aesthetic. Massive windows peer across to the bay, letting in light that often functions as its own piece of art as much as it illuminates the space. Every place that a window could be included, it was, even in the top of the tall living space ceiling, to let in additional rays. Inside, marble, tile, and texture work in tandem, one not over taking the others. The space is inviting and incredibly chic, with throw pillows aplenty and dynamic light fixtures at every turn thanks to the serendipitous partnership between BAC and the homeowners. “We worked with BAC Design, specifically Erica [Murdock] and Tana [Povolo], who were very knowledgeable and helped with everything from tile layouts, lighting, and colors.”
Each room in the home is brimming with textures, colors, and enough space for everyone.
THE NUANCE OF ARTISTIC CHOICES throughout makes the house look effortless. The crisp marble of the gas fireplace, a slight deviation from a traditional hearth, climbs up the wall. The stone inclusions of the marble, appearing white etchings scratched naturally across the surface, are both examples of form and function. Such an idea is found in the light fixtures, most notably those in the living room and kitchen. Angular bars collect to form the two sconces bracketing the fireplace. Due to their shape, the walls they adorn are decorated with interesting shadows; however, the light still casts brightly into the space. A larger, matching chandelier takes its place over the living area. Together, the fixtures bring a chicness along with plenty of light. “The chandelier was the first thing I chose for the house,” one of the homeowners says. “It’s like a chaotic arrangement of ideas and information but it all comes together in a perfect circle.”
“The chandelier was the first thing I chose for the house.”
TAUPE AND ITS MYRIAD SHADES are on display across the space. “Light and color define a space,” the homeowner explains. “We chose 13 colors in total for the house, include a champagne metallic for the ceiling.” Thanks to the painted ceiling, the walls seem endless, opening the space that much more. Deep wood floors blend seamlessly with the light brown walls and the cream couch and island stools. Playful touches make the open-concept kitchen come alive with a hexagonal backsplash. Like a dandelion in the wind, some black tiles extend across the white in a show of moving forward. “I fell in love with the way it comes together in a honeycomb,” one of the homeowners gushes. Guests are welcome to perch at the marble island and watch the magic happen as the homeowners whip up something delectable in the well-appointed kitchen.
Like a dandelion in the wind, some black tiles extend across the white in a show of moving forward.
THE HOME’S BEDROOMS follow the same earthy palette as the living space. Texture is featured most notably in the primary bedroom, where the wallpaper provides a caramel tone to the room. Complementing that are tan shades covering the sliding glass door, cool wood furnishings, a fuzzy rug, and eye-catching lights dropping asymmetrically from the ceiling. Directly off the room is a bathroom that mimics the same wood features of the bedroom, albeit darker. A walk-in closet provides all the space one could need and even includes with a small window. Another bedroom turns more to the blue family with a distressed-denim-hued wallpaper and bedspread offset with white walls and more engaging lights. The third bedroom offers dusky purple-pink walls and lighter wood floors.
“Light and color define a space,” the homeowner explains.
Even the remaining bathrooms are on-theme: one is brightened with white and navy herringbone tiles while the other is marble from top to bottom and revels in minimalist industrial-chic. Each room in the home is brimming with textures, colors, and enough room for everyone.
“The final product is exactly what we wanted for our house.”
TO SOAK UP the final dredges of a gorgeous day, outdoor seating is standing at the ready on both levels. From having a meal to enjoying the night, there is seating aplenty that continues the cream furniture precedence the interior has set. Surrounded by a lush yard and meticulous landscaping, the home holds potential for any number of guests both inside and out.
What better to relax in as the days get shorter and colder than a home that feels like a blend of hot chocolate and modern style? The timelessness of the design choices, the mastery of BAC’s team, and the dreams of the homeowners come together to form a house for the ages, one that is both livable and a piece of art.
- Dean and Tricia Adams
SCENIC OVERLOOK ON OLD MISSION PENINSULA (CENTER RD AT WINERY HILL)
CENTER RD AT WINERY HILL THEN Frederick Tower on Old Mission Peninsula. Circa 1928.
Scenic Overlook at Chateau Grand Traverse on Old Mission Peninsula.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
“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!
Snow-Clad Morning
by Rachel Gaudette
For me, few things can beat driving down a familiar road after a beautiful, heavy snowfall where every inch of the trees are covered. There’s a peace in this feeling that is hard to duplicate or explain. This was one of those mornings. All was right in the world.
toddandbradreed.com
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