Barefoot Magazine 2013 by Steve Timmer

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a word for what we do up here.

It’s “fun!”

Welcome to the fifth annual edition of Barefoot magazine — the lifestyle magazine of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Whether you’ve followed us since the inaugural issue in 2009 or are a new reader, we invite you to embrace the “active lifestyle” that permeates throughout the local communities of northern Michigan. With the onset of several national accolades and media coverage from metropolitan markets nationwide, the Traverse City region has experienced amazing growth and attention — and for good reason. This beautiful corner of America has fast become the “go to” destination for those looking for a healthy, active and adventurous vacation experience. As the Traverse City region grows, so does Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, and there’s more to do than ever before. In this issue, you’ll find useful stories to help you plan your next “active vacation.” Explore “The Most Beautiful Place in America,” Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or venture off the beaten path with a day trip to Power Island. Those with a competitive spirit will want toexperience Traverse City from a different perspective with a spot in any one of our scenic outdoor races, including the Bayshore Marathon on Old Mission Peninsula or the Iceman Cometh Mountain Bike Race in the Pere Marquette State Forest. Meanwhile, golfers will appreciate a look at The Bear from Scott Hebert’s winning PGA professional point of view, and a look at new technology offered by our Resort’s Golf Academy. Be sure to watch Barefoot TV — the all-new online travel series of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Join our host, Jordan Carson, on various “Barefoot adventures” throughout our Resort and the Traverse City region. You can view the videos online at: www.grandtraverseresort.com/BarefootTV. Whether you are new to northern Michigan or well-accustomed to this special place we call home, we invite you and your friends to turn your normal vacation into a more memorable “active vacation” with a stay at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Sincerely,

Steve Timmer, Director of Marketing

Presented by:

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contents volume 5, 2013

columns

6 Region 19 Native culture 20 Family & Lifestyle 26 Health & fitness 46 Retail 50 Dining 54 Weddings & Special Events

58 Meetings &

Conventions

26 6

features

32 Two-Day Getaways

Customize a personal escape to greater Grand Traverse.

40 A bear to Burden

Head Golf Pro Scott Hebert relives pivotal Michigan Open moments.

4 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

ON THE COVER/ PAGE 1 Photography by Tony Demin of the Beach Club at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.

Barefoot is the official lifestyle magazine of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa and is published once per year. Distribution is throughout the Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property and by free subscription. To inquire about advertising rates and deadlines, subscription information or to submit story ideas, email info@ gtresort.com. No part of this publication may be used without written permission of the publisher. ÂŠ 2013 All Rights Reserved.

PUBLISHER Gemini Publications

DESIGN & Production Christopher H. Pastotnik

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Randy D. Prichard rprichard@geminipub.com

Photographers Brian Confer, Tony Demin, Jane Smith, Andy Wakeman and Brian Walters

Editor Lisa M. Jensen Editorial Coordinator J. Michael DeAgostino Writers Jason Deegan Kathy Gibbons

CONTACT US Barefoot Magazine Grand Traverse Resort and Spa Marketing Department 100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd Acme, MI 49610 Phone: 800-748-0303 Email: info@gtresort.com

Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our apologies and notify us via email or phone so we may make the appropriate corrections. Thank you.

grandtraverseresort.com

10% PCW

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region

Timeless Beauty, Year-Round Adventure

Countless viewers of ABC’s “Good Morning America” voted Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with its 64 miles of Lake Michigan beaches, landmark sand dunes, two islands and 22 inland lakes as America’s Most Beautiful Place in 2011. But the real beauty of this treasured sweep of land (beyond it remaining as unassuming as 6 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

it is spectacular) is that it’s near Empire, just a 45-minute drive from Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Take a day that will transport you to this one-of-akind destination, where kids of all ages have been climbing and rolling for generations. Though visitor numbers peak in summer, there’s no oﬀ-season here. Lake Michi-

gan’s slow-to-cool waters allow swimming often well into October when fall colors are most vibrant. Reach stunning vistas by car, foot and bike; don’t miss the 7.4-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive with its overlook observation deck 450 feet above the water. Be sure to test out, too, four miles of a new bike-pedestrian

ABOVE: JOHN MCCORMICK. RIGHT: NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

trail running from the dune climb to eclectic Glen Arbor, just opened in 2012. Come winter, don snowshoes or cross-country skis to enjoy quiet wooded views. Or if you prefer loud, grab a sled and scream as you careen down the Dune Climb’s 260-foot slopes. Learn more at nps.gov/slbe.

Did You Know?

From Dunes in motion to Heroes of the storm

— during which kids get to be part of a turn-of-thecentury shipwreck rescue — ranger-led programs for kids and families take place throughout the park and summer. Learn more about these and how to earn a Junior Ranger patch at nps.gov/slbe/forkids. read more at grandtraverseresort.com

Venture Into The Wind

Leave land behind to find out what makes greater Grand Traverse a water loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise.

Add 180 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline with 149 inland lakes 10 acres or larger and what do you get? â&#x20AC;&#x153;A rambling Cape Cod on freshwater summer playground: quaint port villages, sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, rolling orchards, family-friendly festivals and summer-only Traverse City Beach Bums pro baseball games,â&#x20AC;? praise the editors of National Geographic, which

8 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

cited Traverse City as one of its Top 12 Summer Trips for nature lovers and urban explorers in 2012. The only other destinations in the continental U.S. to make the list were Sonoma, Calif., and Pittsburgh, Pa.

Tall Ships. Sail back in time by boarding the Schooner Manitou, one of the largest sailing vessels on the Great Lakes. Trips depart three times daily in season and speciallythemed voyages are oﬀered, including wine-tasting cruises and a microbrew and pizza excursion (tallshipsailing.com).

LEFT: TONY DEMIN; TOP: TRAVERSE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Kiteboarding. Try out a oneday lesson in the summer, fall or winter, or sign up for a two-day camp through Broneah (broneah.com). Parasailing. Enjoy Traverse City’s crystal blue hues from a bird’s eye view: Traverse Bay Parasailing sends up singles, doubles and triples (tbparasail. com). Hot Air Balloons. Soar over treetops and take in panoramic sights of lakes and countryside year-round in one of Grand Traverse Balloon Company’s sevenstory-high, multi-colored rides (grandtraverseballoons.com).

Ferry to South Manitou. Explore this legendary land’s beauty and history via Manitou Island Transit in Leland, or settle back for a sunset run (manitoutransit.com). Catamaran Sails. Enjoy a cruise on the 47-foot Nauti-Cat, the largest commercial sailing vessel of its kind on the Great Lakes (nauti-cat.com).

Did You Know? You can pick up a stand-up paddle board and learn how to use it through Blue Sky Rentals at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Beach Club, or peruse Blue Sky’s varied watercraft selection for rentable Jet Skis, pontoons and other fun ways to leave land behind (bluesky-tvc.com).

High-Speed Charters. It’s a rush! Private charters to popular destinations along Lake Michigan spray up to speeds of 80 miles per hour (oﬀshoreexcursions.net). Snorkeling and Diving. Check out the Caribbeanhued blues of East Grand Traverse Bay with your own gear, or visit michiganpre serves.org/grandtraverse. htm to uncover regional shipwrecks and other oﬀshore adventures.

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Discover The Power Locals know the secret: A 204-acre preserve of forests, wetlands, bluffs and beaches on West Grand Traverse Bay, Power Island is uninhabited save for county park ranger Fred Tank and his family, who stay summers to keep an eye on things. But thanks to its sheltered location at the mouth of Bowers Harbor, Power Island is a well-appreciated treasure for boaters and paddlers in the know. Summer weekends, you’ll find the island’s harbor filled with boats and swimmers, friendly folks who congregate ’round the dock and crackling wood fires

further ashore. Visitors who venture deeper won’t be disappointed, Tank says. The interior is a delight for hikers, who enjoy the island’s miles of well-maintained trails that lead through a dense forest to the Eagle’s Nest, a high ridge, and along the wilder western shore’s rocky shoals. Take a kayak and paddle the two-anda-half mile route from Bowers Harbor on the Old Mission Peninsula, Tank suggests: “Kayakers can be more mobile and get out on the island. They have a great time.” PHOTOS COURTESY OF TRAVERSE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

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Hands-On, Hands-Down: Top Spots for Family Fun Festivals abound throughout the Grand Traverse region year-round, and the National Cherry Festival (June 29-July 6, 2013) is the granddaddy with its carnival, contests, games and activities. The Traverse City Film Festival, held annually toward July’s end, includes free nightly family movies on a big inflatable screen on the waterfront. Enjoy Friday Night Live summer activities like facepainting and fire truck rides in downtown Traverse City as well as these fun regional spots: The Beach Club at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. The Resort’s private Beach Club, open to all Resort guests, offers plenty of ways to play in the bay.

Beyond a heated outdoor pool, families can splash away on Jet Skis, pedal boats, paddle boards, kayaks and pontoons, available through Blue Sky Rentals. Weekend family bonfires and breathtaking sunsets complete fun-filled days on the Resort’s private beach (grandtraverse resort.com). TART Trail. Ride as little or as long as you want on this paved trail that now runs from just near the Resort in the east to Suttons Bay in the north, a total of about 25 miles. Enter the trail at any point: You’ll find fun spots to stop for ice cream and other attractions all along the way (traversetrails.org).

Great Lakes Children’s Museum. Located less than two miles from downtown Traverse City, the Great Lakes Children’s Museum is a family-oriented, all-season attraction featuring hands-on exhibits, activities and special programs (great lakeskids.org). East Bay Park. Stretched within Traverse City’s limits, parents appreciate this scenic beach’s shallow water, restrooms, playground and ample picnic tables (traversecity.com). Inland Seas Family Schoolship. During summer months, embark on a Family Ecology Sail aboard the 77-foot, twotmasted schooner Inland Seas. Similar programs are also offered aboard the classic Friendship sloop Liberty (schoolship. org).

MARK & TAMAL LINDSAY

Boardman River Nature Center. Explore the Traverse City area’s natural world through the Boardman River Nature Center’s interpretive gallery with live animals and rotating, interactive exhibits (natureiscalling.org). To learn more about activities featured on these pages and other fun family excursions, visit the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau at 101 West Grandview Parkway downtown or go to traversecity.com. read more at grandtraverseresort.com

Field & Stream’s Fly Talk ranks Michigan No. 1 in its 2012 “Top 12 States for Fly Fishing,” with Traverse City earning the magazine’s No. 3 spot as “Best Fishing Town.” Whether standing at the mouth of the Boardman River or embarking on a charter in bigger waters, the scenery and day’s catch won’t disappoint. Fly Fishing with David McCool. McCool’s Outdoor offers fly fishing instruction and action-packed Golden Bonefish adventures on Lake Michigan (mccooloutdoor. com).

12 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

Manistee River Day Trips. Rent canoes, kayaks, tubes or rafts from Chippewa Landing, a fullservice livery located north of Cadillac, about 45 minutes from the Resort. The Manistee River is the most unspoiled natural river in the Lower Peninsula (chippewalanding.com).

Pisces Charter Fishing on East Bay/Big Kahuna Charters on West Bay. Led by an area native and experienced captain, these charters oﬀer opportunities for catching king salmon, lake trout, brown trout, whiteﬁsh, perch and smallmouth bass (bigkahu nacharter.com).

Trophy Smallmouth Bass Charters. Captain Ben Wolfe offers a light tackle and fly fishing guide service on Lake Michigan and many of the area’s inland lakes. Renowned for salmon and blue-ribbon trout, these waters are home, too, for trophy smallmouth bass, walleye, whitefish, jumbo perch, largemouth bass and gigantic carp (Traverse Bass.com).

The Boardman River. This state-designated Natural River and Blue Ribbon Trout Stream is one of Michigan’s Top 10 for trout. Considered by some to be the Grand Traverse Bay region’s most outstanding natural feature, the Boardman and its watershed are favorites of anglers, boaters, hunters, hikers and wildlife watchers (traverse city.com).

TOP: BEN WOLFE

Get Fishy With It

COME FIND BEER LIBERATION

It ’s just a Short ’s trip away

SHORT’S BREWING COMPANY 121 N. BRIDGE ST. BELLAIRE, MI (231)498-2300 SHORTSBREWING.COM

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Race Town Round-Up 14 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

The region’s scenic varied landscape inspires residents and visitors alike to hike, paddle, pedal, run and swim for exercise and competition throughout the year at events including these: Short’s to Short’s Paddle (April). This free and friendly endurance race spans a 27-mile route in nearby Antrim Coun-

TRAVERSE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Into The Woods Just minutes from Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, the 16.7-mile VASA Pathway in Pere Marquette State Forest is one of the region’s premier, year-round trail networks. Groomed in winter for cross-country skiers, classic and skate alike, it’s enjoyed by mountain bikers, hikers and naturalists as well for its pristine beauty and loops (including a 25K, 10K and 5K) suited to every skill level. The VASA also connects to other trails in Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties (vasa. org).

ty’s lower Chain of Lakes from Short’s Brewpub in Bellaire to its Elk Rapids Production Brewery. Waters traversed include among others Lake Bellaire, Torch Lake, Torch River, Lake Skegemog and the Elk River (shortsbrewing.com). Mud, Sweat & Beers Fat Tire Fest and Mountain Bike Rice (May). A spring race that combines challenging terrain, races for all levels of skill and a really fun post-party (mudsweatand beers.com). Bayshore Marathon (May). A marathon, half-marathon and 10K from Traverse City and along the Old Mission Peninsula (bayshoremarathon.org). M-22 Challenge (June). Run, pedal and paddle along a 22mile course that includes climbing the Sleeping Bear Dunes, biking 17 miles around Big and Little Glen Lakes and paddling 2.5 miles out and back in Little Glen (m22challenge.com). Cherry-Roubaix (August). A three-day event including a harrowing, French-inspired

brick-paved short course that culminates in State Championship Road Race beginning and ending high atop Sugar Loaf Resort in nearby Cedar (cherry roubaix.com). Barefoot Triathlon (September). Named after Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Barefoot magazine, this event includes an Olympic-distance 1.5K swim, 26-mile bike and 6.2-mile run, plus a sprint option featuring a 500-meter swim, 16.4-mile bike and 3.1-mile run. Athletes all start at the Resort’s Beach Club and ﬁnish under the Plaza tent (grandtraverseresort.com). Iceman Cometh (November). This renowned 29-mile point-topoint mountain bike race from Kalkaska to Traverse City oﬀers more than $54,000 in cash awards and $10,000 in merchandise prizes (iceman.com). North American VASA (February). Equally revered, these annual 10K, 27K and 50K freestyle and classic cross-country skiing races wind through the Pere Marquette State Forest (vasa.org).

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Small-Town Getaways: Visit Elk Rapids From Leland and Suttons Bay to Alden and Bellaire, small-towns surrounding Traverse City reward visitors with one-of-a-kind ﬁnds and character.

16 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

line and sinker fishing from shore is at the dam; it’s a great spot to take a kid fishing for catfish, perch and tons of bass. Adults can check out Short’s Brewing Company, which has opened a production brewery and pub in Elk Rapids. And Pearl’s New Orleans Kitchen is popular with locals and visitors

alike for its authentic Cajun menu. But the top spot may well be the Harbor Days Festival, set for July 31-Aug. 3 in 2013, complete with parade, road races, a carnival and some of Northern Michigan’s best ﬁreworks. Learn more at elkrapidschamber.org or traversecity.com.

JESSICA CLIFTON: FLICKR.COM/PHOTOS/JCEE3

Closest to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is Elk Rapids, just a short drive north on U.S. 31. From an expansive, sandy beach with playground, it’s a short walk to the historic downtown and its galleries, antique shops, eateries and old-fashioned movie theater. Like to ﬁsh? Locals say the best place in Elk Rapids to do hook,

the museum

The Sounds and History of Music Take a walk through the history of music with this unique collection of automated musical instruments One of the “10 Reasons to Visit the Lower Peninsula” Beth Greenfield, Forbes.com

½ Mile North of the Grand Traverse Resort 7377 US 31N - 231-938-9300 - musichouse.org

SCH

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Beautiful places attract creative people, and the Traverse City area is no exception. Galleries and antique shops draw visitors year round. The Traverse City Film Festival, featuring six days of independent, foreign and documentary ﬁlms at city-wide venues every summer, has put TC on the industry’s map (tra

Did You Know?

You can catch nationallyrenowned comedians, top up-and-coming comics, comedy ﬁ lms and familyfriendly shows in downtown arts venues plus fun wintry attractions including a ferris wheel, ice sculptures, skating rink and hot chocolate contest Feb. 14-17, 2013 during the Traverse City Winter Comedy Festival (traversecity.com).

18 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

While innumerous other art fairs and festivals can be perused in Traverse City and surrounding communities year-round, enjoy even more of the arts at these Cherry Capital venues: Old Town Playhouse. Community theater at its ﬁnest oﬀers popular mainstage and studio shows including “Legally Blonde” in 2013 (oldtownplay house.com).

personal evenings with some of America’s best storytellers (cityoperahouse.org or national writersseries.org). Eyaawing Museum and Cultural Center. Owned and operated by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, this venue lies along West Grand Traverse Bay in the village of Peshawbestown, north of Suttons Bay. Its inaugural exhibits explore the themes of travel, trade and ﬁshing, with displays of pow wow regalia, black ash basket-making and more (gtbindians.org).

Traverse Symphony Orchestra. Northern Michigan’s leading regional performing arts ensemble, TSO presents concerts in Interlochen Center for the Arts’ Corson Auditorium, Traverse City’s Lars Hockstad Auditorium and the First Congregational Church in Traverse City (traversesymphony.org).

Traverse City Wine & Art Festival. Held each summer on the historic Grand Traverse Commons, this popular event showcases wines from Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas, Traverse City and Benzie County, along with samplings from restaurants, innovative music and performances and original artwork from dozens of regional artists (traversecitywinefestival. com).

Traverse City Opera House. One of six historically intact Victorian opera houses in Michigan, this venue teams up with Michigan State University’s renowned Wharton Center for the Performing Arts to present a diverse lineup. It’s also home to the National Writers Series, which hosts up close and

The Dennos Museum Center. Located on the campus of Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, the Dennos Museum Center oﬀers a dynamic array of exhibitions and programs in the visual arts, sciences and performing arts, including a renowned collection of Inuit Art (dennosmuseum.org).

TRAVERSE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU. OPPOSITE PAGE: STEVE FERINGA

Art of the North

versecityﬁlmfest.org). The Interlochen Arts Festival showcases top-name acts year-round; enjoy these inside and out, including a covered amphitheater set against Green Lake (interlochen. org).

native culture

Native Artists

Anishnaabek Mzinbiige Nine (or Ninii Kwe) By Steve Feringa Just like the word eyaawing — meaning, “who we are” — art in our native culture can deﬁne who we are. Tradition, symbolism, creative expression and color are represented in our artwork, past and present. We are a colorful tribe. This is apparent in the dancer’s regalia (attire) at a jingtamok (pow-wow). The regalia is often created with brilliant colors and is an expression of the dancer. Color is prevalent in our art, but not always. The media a native artist uses might be traditional used in a traditional way, or traditional used in a modern way. My favorite media is basswood, a traditional material used for cordage, containers and carved tools such as spoons. I prefer to use it in a modern way and without

color. Basswood is an excellent material to use for wood burning. It is a soft wood with fine growth rings so it burns evenly. The wood burning tool I use has different “pens” to burn lines or shadows into the wood. The heat is adjustable to burn lighter or darker values. Wood burning (above) is a challenging technique that few artists choose — mistakes cannot be erased and getting burned is guaranteed! Colorful floral designs are frequently represented in our culture in different tribal art forms. When Jesuit priest missionaries traveled from Europe to convert the natives in Michigan, they were dressed in black robes with colorful floral designs. These floral designs impacted our native culture and are still recreated by tribal artists today, including myself. Before this influence, much of our native designs were geometric patterns, but still had colorful flower and leaf

subject matter. Inspiration comes from my native culture, from nature and wildlife indigenous to the Great Lakes region. With modern wood burning tools, great detail can be achieved when illustrating fur and feathers. I prefer to have ﬁnely detailed subjects in creative surroundings, with harmony and balance in the composition. Creativity was a way of life for the Anishnaabek. Consider the birch bark canoe, black ash baskets and other native crafts and artwork. These were the results of visionary uses of materials available. Symbolism is common in many native artists’ work, especially where our culture is represented. A common symbol, the Medicine Wheel has four colors — Ozawa (yellow), miskwa (red), Mkade (black), and wabshka (white). Symbolism and teachings of the Medicine Wheel is full of meaning. The colors stand for the four races of man, the four directions, our four scared plants (tobacco, sweet grass, sage, and cedar). These are just a few examples

of the symbolic teachings of the Medicine Wheel. As an artist I enjoy being creative and carry that over to my profession as an architect (creative designs/creative solutions). I integrate our culture into art and architecture in ways that are sometimes subtle and sometimes very obvious. One of my favorite designs I use from our culture is the otter tail symbol. I am very careful to use this design in my artwork, as it characterizes one of our Seven Grandfather Teachings (Mnaadeendimowin), which means respect. A great deal of thought and planning precedes most my artwork. Art in our native culture spans generations. This is evident in the pictographs on the rocky shores of Lake Superior and on artifacts found on farmlands or excavated by archeologists. It was how we passed knowledge, stories and traditions down to the next generations. Eyaawing means “who we are.” My art is who I am.

Author Steve Feringa is a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians and is the Tribal Architect for the Band’s Economic Development Corporation.

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family & lifestyle

Fun Up North, Family-Style

Whether they come to play for a weekend or live in Northern Michigan year-round, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa — the state’s premier resort experience — caters to families in myriad ways.

20 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

comforts of home, spacious houses as well as varying-sized condominiums at the Resort or beachside at The Shores can also be rented. Wherever they stay, they have access to the Resort’s full slate of amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools and tennis courts, an indoor water playground, health club, spa, three championship golf courses, organized kids’ activities and in-room babysitting as well as licensed child care in The Cub House. Bring or rent bikes, hop on the eastern end of the TART trail just nearby and ride to downtown Traverse City or even beyond to Suttons Bay in Leelanau County on this paved former railroad bed. Rent Jet Skis, pedal boats, kayaks and pontoons from the Resort’s private Beach Club, where there’s also a snack bar serving up food and drinks. “We have kids’ activities all summer long,” says Club Membership Manager Kyle Oberstadt. “Sometimes they’re at the Beach Club, where we have evening entertainment and bonﬁres, and sometimes they’re at the pool. “We have a big, furry, funny

mascot, Bogey Bear, who’s always giving hugs and high ﬁves. And sometimes, he has candy.” Real Estate Options Designated an All-American City, recently named No. 3 on Money Magazine’s list of the nation’s Top 25 Places to Retire, and just an all-around great place to stay or live and raise a family, Traverse City is one of Michigan’s top growth areas. Those wishing to plant roots by purchasing a vacation getaway at the Resort can choose from myriad real estate options. In addition to condominiums situated along manicured fairways or fringed by natural roughs, trees and lakes, the Resort boasts a premiere residential golf community with views of East Bay and a neighborhood of distinctive single-family detached homes. As a member of the RCI vacation property exchange organization, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa and its Rental Management Program can further help property owners oﬀset the cost of owning a Northern Michigan vacation home and make the most of their investments.

ANDY WAKEMAN; OPPOSITE PAGE: TONY DEMIN

Array of Accommodations Visiting families can choose from traditional rooms and suites in the 17-story glass Tower and newly-renovated sixstory Hotel, all with ﬂat-screen HD TVs, wireless high-speed Internet access and iPod docking stations. Oﬀering all the

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Pappas and her family have also enjoyed the amenities of the Resort’s Beach Club, which includes use of the private beach and pool. “It’s nice to go over there, have lunch, sit by the pool and also be able to go in the bay,” she said. Chill-Out Year Round As many discover, the Resort is also a great place to be in the wintertime. Families can continue to take advantage of swimming, tennis and other indoor activities. Outdoors, activities at the Resort put a festive spin on together time. On-site ice skating, groomed

cross-country ski trails and fresh powder for snowshoeing are just outside the doors. Bring your own gear, or rentals can be arranged through the Concierge. Mt. Holiday Ski & Recreation Area is just a few miles away, and the Resort provides shuttle service so families can downhill ski, snowboard, tube and sled. Interested in a horse-drawn hay or sleigh ride? Several are offered locally, and the Concierge can set it up for you. There are also multiple top-notch downhill ski and snowboarding resorts just a short drive from the Resort, along with cross-country ski trail networks including the nearby VASA Pathway. Those seeking a motorized rush can enjoy snowmobiles managed by Blue Sky Rentals (bluesky-tvc.com, 231-633-2583). And ﬁnally, stay warm by the ﬁre and purchase s’mores supplies, play board games, enjoy hot chocolate and adult beverages, or savor favorite comfort foods from The Grille’s winterthemed menu at the Resort’s Winter Activities Center.

BOTTOM: ANDY WAKEMAN. OPPOSITE PAGE TOP: TONY DEMIN

Active All Around Whether guest, resident or Club Member, families ﬁnd they can be as active as they want to be. Kirsten Pappas of Traverse City, whose family has been playing tennis at the Resort for at least seven years, said the instruction and competition there led to both of her children playing varsity tennis in high school from ninth grade on. Pappas also participates in leagues and has formed lasting friendships as a result. “My teammates have deﬁnitely become close friends, and even outside the court, we are social,” Pappas shared. “You see a lot of that there.”

SWEET!

Dylan’s Candy Bar at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

It’s a life-size Candy Land for kids discovering Dylan’s 100bin bulk candy display, packaged sweets, candy-inspired gifts and themed apparel. The whimsy continues in Dylan’s Candy Café, where there’s a real cotton candy wagon, 14 flavors of homemade ice cream, fudge, specialty chocolates, party items and other novelties complete with gumball-topped tables and candy cane stools — the sweetest place to celebrate a birthday (grandtraverseresort.com)!

The official travel show of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Watch videos online at: grandtraverseresort.com/barefootTV read more at grandtraverseresort.com

2013 Calendar of Events Events followed by an asterisk take place at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa (grandtraverseresort.com). To learn more about regional activities listed and other year-round happenings, visit traversecity.com. JANUARY Winter Activities at The Clubhouse* Golf Academy Open*

Winter Microbrew & Music Festival Traverse City Winter Comedy Festival

NOVEMBER

AUGUST

Iceman Cometh Mountain Bike Race

Harbor Days & Short’s Fest

Mac & Cheese Bake-oﬀ

Wineries of Old Mission “Winter Warm Up”

MARCH

Traditional Pow Wow

Suds-N-Snow

Horse Shows by the Bay

FEBRUARY

Spring Break Celebrations*

DECEMBER

Winter Activities at The Clubhouse*

Easter Celebrations*

Summer Microbrew & Music Festival

U.S. 27 Motorsports Snocross Presented by Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel

APRIL

SEPTEMBER

Winter Activities at The Clubhouse*

37th Annual VASA Cross Country Ski Race

National Trout Festival

Barefoot Triathlon*

Short’s to Short’s Paddle

Detroit Red Wings Training Camp & Charity Golf Classic*

MAY

NHL Prospects Tournament

Bayshore Marathon Blossom Days Spring Sip & Savor

JUNE Leland Wine & Food Festival Divas Uncorked

BOTTOM: TRAVERSE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Horse Shows by the Bay

“Green Friday” Annual Golf Sale*

Biggest Little Holiday Party*

New Year’s Eve Celebrations*

Harvest Stompede 3rd Annual Pearl’s & Short’s Bluegrass, Bourbon, Blues & Beer Festival

OCTOBER Big Hole Golf Tournament*

Summer Beach Week *

“Tuﬀ Enuﬀ?” Golf Tournament*

Traverse City Wine & Art Festival

Sleeping Bear Marathon & Half-Marathon

JULY

Halloween Celebrations*

National Cherry Festival

Zombie Run

Traverse City Film Festival

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health & ﬁ tness

Staying Has Its Privileges

“They did a personal training session every day that they were here,” shared Mack, Manager of the Resort’s Health Club (pictured above, center in Team Barefoot shirt). “They were all about being active.” That’s the thing about staying at the Resort. Being a guest includes the same access to its health and ﬁtness facilities that 26 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

the many local and seasonal residents who are members have. With a 100,000-squarefoot Health Club including weight room and cardio-ﬁtness space, a full-service spa, multiple indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs and tennis courts, three championship golf courses, trails for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing, a full

roster of ﬁtness classes — along with personal trainers, instructors and meditation coaches — guests can choose from a cafeteria-like menu of options to embark on a path to better health and wellness, or to maintain the active lifestyle that they follow at home. “A lot of guests exercise regularly while they are here,”

ANDY WAKEMAN

Kristan Mack recalls a couple from Hong Kong who stayed at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa for three weeks while their son attended summer music camp at nearby Interlochen Center for the Arts.

Mack said. “They belong to a club where they live, and just want to keep working out.” Mack noted the health and ﬁtness facilities and services often serve as a springboard for those who want to test the waters of an exercise and wellness regimen while they have extra time during a stay at the Resort. Meeting with a personal

trainer, getting a guided tour of the workout equipment and how to use it or making time for ﬁtness classes are great ways to get started. Oﬀerings include yoga therapy, spinning, Pilates, Zumba, Boot Camp and an Urban Funk n’ Pump class that Mack created, incorporating both cardio and strength training. A

5K run every Saturday morning from spring through fall is also popular. “Guests are able to walk into the daily ﬁtness classes including a lot of the classes that are held in our aerobics studio as well as aqua classes held in the pools,” Mack said. “Everyone will ﬁnd something here whether they have been read more at grandtraverseresort.com

Soothed Through The Seasons From dry winter skin and seasonal allergy relief to becoming bikini-ready for summer, Spa Grand Traverse offers services and treatments designed to prepare and protect both men and women from anything Mother Nature sends along. Appointments include pampering and relaxation in the Spa’s restful lounge and access to refreshing indoor pools. sPa menU massage HYdrotHeraPY and BodYcare FacIaLs naILcare HaIr artIstrY / WaXIng / maKe-UP mens’ servIces daY sPa PacKages BrIdaL BLIss “It’s not just about that mental boost,” said Dawn Olsen, Spa Manager. “Individual health beneﬁts are also physical.” For more details about offerings listed, visit grandtraverseresort.com; for reservations, call (231) 534-6750.

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OPPOSITE PAGE AND BOTTOM RIGHT: ANDY WAKEMAN. TOP: BRIAN WALTERS

exercising for 10 years or are just starting out.” Join the Club The Resort offers several levels of membership including the Village, Bear, and Jr. Bear for those under 40, along with fourmonth options for summer and winter. Each features varying benefits that range from full use of the Health Club and discounts on golf at The Bear to an inside track for tennis reservations, fitness classes, the private Beach Club and licensed child care facility that makes it easy for parents to exercise, or enjoy a couples massage and sauna. “Most of our members are local to the Traverse City and Elk Rapids areas, and we do have seasonal residents who have a second home elsewhere who maintain memberships while they are here,” noted Club Membership Manager Kyle Oberstadt. Belonging means just that: Members can enjoy the entire property, including the Beach Club with its waterfront pool and sandy beach — and the camaraderie of sharing both

ﬁtness and friendship with others in the Health Club, classes and pool, and in golf and tennis leagues. The Health Club also opens early and closes late, making it accessible for anyone’s schedule. And the staﬀ is all about hospitality, creating an inviting environment that keeps guests — and members — coming back. Join the Team Anyone passionate about being active throughout the year is welcome to be part of the Resort’s Team Barefoot network of support and camaraderie. “We’re the antithesis of ‘couch potato’ — the folks who can’t help but get outside and get moving, get exploring and get involved,” says Resort Marketing Director Steve Timmer. “Our mindset is simple: Live an active life.” Find out more at grandtraverseresort.com.

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THE

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Arrowhead Estates At the Grand Traverse Resort

The Shores Condominiums At the Grand Traverse Resort Studio Units Priced From $69,900

Building Sites Priced From $35,000

1 Bedroom Units Priced From $75,000

Single Family Homes Priced From $279,900

2 Bedroom Units Priced From $119,900

Individual home sites offering easy access to Grand Traverse Resort amenities and downtown Traverse City. Situated along the picturesque Bear Golf Course, with panoramic views of the gently rolling terrain.

The Shores is a vacation retreat featuring a flowing stream, mature trees and beautifully landscaped grounds. This waterfront condominium community, located on East Grand Traverse Bay includes 600 feet of shared sandy beach. Ideal vacation get-away spot or take advantage of GTR’s rental management program.

Singletree I Condominiums At the Grand Traverse Resort

Cottage Glens Condominiums At the Grand Traverse Resort

2 Bedroom Units Priced From $184,900

3 Bedroom Cottages Priced From $194,900 4 Bedroom Cottages Priced From $279,900

Located on the 15th fairway of the Bear Golf Course, Singletree I offers natural fireplaces, open kitchens, large decks, central air, separate laundry rooms and detached garages. Ideal vacation get-away spot or take advantage of income opportunities through GTR’s rental management program.

Nestled on the links of The Bear and Spruce Run Golf Courses, Cottage Glens offers a resort lifestyle, with low maintenance single family cottages . Within walking distance to Grand Traverse Resort amenities and just minutes from downtown Traverse City and Cherry Capital Airport.

Golfview Condominiums At the Grand Traverse Resort

Valleyview Terrace Condominiums At the Grand Traverse Resort

1 & 2 Bedroom Units from $84,900

2 Bedroom Units Priced From $155,000 3 Bedroom Units Priced From $224,000

Overlooking the Spruce Run Golf Course, Golfview Condominiums offer full kitchens, cozy fireplaces, central air conditioning, private balconies and carports. Easy access to Grand Traverse Resort Amenities and just minutes from downtown Traverse City. Ideal vacation get-away spot or take advantage of GTR’s rental management program.

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Terrace condominiums, located within walking distance to the main resort complex feature large balconies, a peek of the Bay and border the Spruce Run Golf Course. Condos feature open living areas, fireplaces, complete kitchens and washer/dryer connections. Ideal vacation get-away spot or take advantage of GTR’s rental management program.

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Greater Grand Traverse

(231) 938-1200 | KWgrandtraverse.com

Two-Day Getaways How many ways can you make the most of two days in the greater Grand Traverse region? For a fun family escape or time-out for two, start the count at Michigan’s premier resort destination. By Lisa M. Jensen

Did You Know? Along with Barcelona, Scotland’s Argyll region and Bolivia’s Isla del Sol, National Geographic cited Traverse City on its 2012 list of Top 10 Summer Trips. 32 read more at GRANDTRAVERSERESORT.COM

Unwind along Caribbean-hued Grand Traverse Bay to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Throughout the award-winning property’s 900 acres you’ll find adventure unfolds at your own pace. “Some guests who come up here to get away for a weekend like to just drive around, not knowing what they’ll end up doing each day,” said Linda Walters, a member of the Resort’s concierge team. “Others want to program their itinerary to the minute.” From the region’s renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes to world-class golf at the Resort and Traverse City’s acclaimed beaches, wineries and festivals, she said a lot can be packed into two days. Resort concierge Renann Eddy noted proximity is key: “Minutes from this great shopping and downtown,” she said, “you can be fly fishing in a beautiful stream, or hiking a wide meadow by the woods.” But don’t be so tied to a plan you feel rushed, they encouraged: “Enjoying the moment is what getting away is all about.” And from newlyweds to retirees and families with toddlers or teens, concierges at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa are on hand to help you uncover ways to turn two days away together into so much more.

Families: Day 1 MORNING ◆ Cozy up with the kids in Grand Traverse Resort’s Hotel and Tower and swap routine’s rigors for room service. Without home’s chores in sight share a hot breakfast cooked-to-order, then linger in your P.J.s: The only thing more fun than not making the bed is playing favorite games with Mom and Dad in it.

TONY DEMIN

◆ Board the shuttle for a seconds-long trip to the Beach Club, the Resort’s private beach and heated outdoor pool on sparkling East Bay, and splash into the shallows from a water trampoline rented on-site through Blue Sky Rentals. ◆ Warm up in the sun, explore the sandy natural shoreline and enjoy lunch at the Beach Club before heading back to

your spacious, clean room and freshly-made beds at the Hotel and Tower.

AFTERNOON ◆ Browse the Resort’s Gallery of Shops and swirl up your own fluffy sweet treat at Dylan’s Candy Bar. ◆ Family Field Trip: Wind your way out onto Old Mission Peninsula, where missionary Peter Dougherty founded a colony in 1839 and later planted the region’s first cherry trees. See historic mission buildings still in use today and slip back in time at Old Mission General Store. The authentic trading post is stocked with antiques and merchandise, penny candy and barrel pickles, ice cream and fountain sodas.

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souvenirs, stationary, tech accessories, and fashions. Dylan’s recently added a line of apparel, along with school supplies and plush pillows in the shapes of — what else? — candy bars and lollipops. Across the hall from Dylan’s is its Candy Café, opened in June 2011. Outfitted with gumball-topped tables and candy cane stools, the Café has a real cotton candy wagon, 14 flavors of gourmet ice cream homemade by the Resort’s pastry chefs (including exclusives like Red Velvet Cake and Coffee & Donuts), a tempting display of fudge, decadent specialty chocolates, party items and novelties. The Café also hosts groups for birthday celebrations, baby showers, weddings, women’s weekends and other sweet gatherings. Kids are also quick to find their way into Tumbleweeds. The classic toy boutique engages parents and grandparents, too, with the full line of Melissa & Doug’s life-size plush pets and

an array of educational toys, books, games and puzzles. Shoppers can take a taste of northern Michigan home with them or order holiday gifts from American Spoon Foods, which is stocked with edible treasures from throughout the region. And savor fresh deli sandwiches, salads, house truﬄes and favorites from Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and Starbucks Coffee at The Marketplace. Need something specific to wear or just browsing? Gallery shops have you covered. At Ashleigh’s, you’ll find the region’s largest selection of Brighton jewelry and accessories, plus lines including Sky, Cartise, Karen Kane and others. Adventure North Outfitters is a North Face “shop within a shop” with fashion-forward clothing from Lolë (Live Out Loud Everyday), Oakley sunglasses, and other popular sportswear and accessory collections by Natural Life, Haiku, and Baggallini. In the Gallery’s Bear Logo Shop, look for apparel, acces-

TOP: TONY DEMIN. BOTTOM: ANDY WAKEMAN

First up? Dylan’s Candy Bar! Newly opened in November 2010, this magical emporium combines founder Dylan Lauren’s love of sweets and passion for art into the ultimate sugar rush experience. There’s a 100-bin bulk candy display, packaged candy, and candy-inspired gifts including

ANDY WAKEMAN

sories and gifts for men and women featuring the Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exclusive Bear logo. The Golf Pro Shop, located a short walk away in the Clubhouse, also stocks leading brand golf apparel including Under Armour for ladies and gentlemen, as well as short game accessory clubs. Finally, the Spa Retail Boutique invites you to take lasting reminders of your experience home. Many products used in Spa services are available for purchase, including a Spa Grand Traverse signature line, Neuma hair care products, Jane Irdale cosmetics, Farm House Fresh products, OPI nail care products, and selections from the Spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cherry-infused line, among others. Visit grandtraverseresort. com. read more at grandtraverseresort.com

dining

Best Food, Best View Locals know and visitors soon learn: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is a destination for foodies in Traverse City, which Bon Appetit named as one of its Top Five Foodie Towns in 2010.

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NILE YOUNG

Aerie Restaurant & Lounge At the top, literally, is Aerie Restaurant & Lounge — one of a kind in the region for having the best view around bar none, and serving a cutting-edge and seasonally changing menu based on top-quality, fresh and frequently local ingredients. That can mean featured items like specialty oils and vinegars from Fustini’s in downtown Traverse City, or fish fresh from Lake Michigan, paired with some of the area’s burgeoning local wine and craft beer industries.

Located on the 16th floor of the Resort Tower, Aerie is a must for those seeking a premier dining experience against a panoramic backdrop that’s as awe-inspiring as the food. Besides playing host to special occasion meals like anniversary dinners, birthday parties, family reunions, and wedding rehearsal meals, Aerie is open for dinner nightly and rolls out magnificent buffets for events like Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Aerie is also THE place to

experience the view with a late afternoon cocktail, or top off a day of outdoor activities with a nightcap while sampling renowned desserts crafted by the Resort’s pastry chef. And while there’s live entertainment on the weekends, Aerie is also open for a sumptuous Sunday brunch complete with omelet and carving stations, fresh salads, pastries, desserts and — for grown-up guests — a mimosa. For a special treat, the Resort presents themed weekends

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that combine dinner at Aerie with local wine or brew tours. A shuttle transports participants to wineries or brew pubs and breweries, returning to the Resort for dinner. Weekend guests will find there’s ample time left for a round of golf or spa visit, too. Sweetwater American Bistro For more casual everyday dining, Sweetwater American Bistro just off the Grand Lobby is a full-service restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with the same attention to quality and ingredients as its upstairs cousin. The Resort’s inviting “mini global” bistro appeals to a wide variety of tastes and needs. While many guests enjoy Sweetwater’s breakfast buffet, others prefer choosing from tempting menu selections. At lunchtime, look for savory soups, fresh salads and sand-

wiches on fresh-made bread. Dinner choices range from pan-roasted chicken and ribs to grilled salmon and baconwrapped meatloaf. The Resort’s signature desserts are also served fresh here. A unique semi-circle bank of seating, along with tables and booths, appeals to families as well as business colleagues. Singles will also find Sweetwater to be a cozy place to take in a meal, with attentive servers and a warmly-hued décor. Clubhouse Grille For golfers and all others seeking a northwoods-inspired atmosphere for lunch and dinner, The Grille is housed in the Resort’s Clubhouse and offers scenic views of The Bear’s 18th green. Visit at the bar, dine outdoors on the patio or settle into one of The Grille’s comfortable, cushioned seats. From homemade soups,

salads and appetizers including The Grille’s signature housemade potato chips tossed in melted blue cheese and garden chives to hearty sandwiches, wraps, pastas, tenderloin and chicken — plus grilled burgers and hot dogs — lunch and dinner menus feature familiar favorites. Food and beverage carts also operate throughout the golf courses. Jack’s Sports Bar With always-fresh popcorn and four flat-screen HD TVs, Jack’s is like the corner bar — a gathering place for groups as well as couples who want to watch the game or catch up with friends. Food runs the gamut, from beef sliders served on a savory bun to salads made with local, fresh produce. Hard-to-choose options also include burgers, sandwiches and the Resort’s delicious house-made pizza.

Clubhouse Grille 52 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

Grand Lobby Bar Serving a wide selection of bottled beers, wines and spirits in the Resort’s spacious and inviting Grand Lobby, the casually elegant Grand Lobby Bar is

just the spot for people-watching, conversation and winding down after a busy day. The Marketplace Tucked within the Gallery of Shops, The Marketplace is the Resort’s in-house deli, featuring an assortment of fresh sandwiches, wraps, salads and baked goods. Sample a taste of ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s. Order a specialty beverage, hot or chilled, made with fresh-brewed Starbucks Coffee. Pick up a newspaper, magazine or book, and enjoy it all at one of The Marketplace bistro tables.

BRIAN CONFER

Pool Bar The Resort’s Pool Bar, located at the outdoor pool near Governors’ Hall, offers beverages along with a limited roster of sandwiches and snacks.

Grand Lobby Bar read more at grandtraverseresort.com

weddings & special events

The Perfect Wedding Escape

Exchanging vows and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;wowingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; guests just as a couple imagines begin by falling in love with a place.

By Kathy Gibbons Wedding Imagery of John and Laura Wirtz By Jean Smith Photography

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Every wedding at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is different. Yet, they’re alike in that each is as fun and as filled with activities and adventure as the couple chooses. Take Allie and Dan Case of Troy, Mich. They knew the Resort was where they wanted to get married. Allie and her family had vacationed there when she was growing up, and it was what she pictured when she imagined a stress-free wedding with a ceremony on the beach in August 2012. Most of their 173 guests stayed at the Resort or at nearby Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel.

Allie and her wedding party enjoyed pampering, pedicures and martinis during a “Tinis & Toes” party on-site in Spa Grand Traverse, where they also had their hair and makeup done on the wedding day. A rehearsal dinner on the Tower’s 17th floor wowed their guests with its panoramic view and elaborate Italian buffet. And it was all capped off with the ceremony they’d dreamed of — outdoors at the Beach Club along sparkling East Bay. “It was right by the water, and we had the reception under the Plaza tent,” Allie said. “It was perfect. Especially at night, you could walk out from under the

tent and see the sky and stars. It was absolutely beautiful.” Sharing Their Love Courtney Weeks and Steven Lindee were living in Chicago when they planned their October 2011 wedding. They knew they wanted a destination wedding, but preferred it to be within driving distance for Courtney’s family back in Michigan and Steven’s relatives in Illinois. Courtney had actually worked banquets at the Resort a few summers as a teen and brought Steven, who had never been there, to see it. He liked it immediately. Wanting their 100 guests to read more at grandtraverseresort.com

“Everything from the time I woke up at 9 a.m. to get my hair done at the Spa until the time we left was absolutely perfect, and we had so much fun with our friends and family. I wouldn’t change a thing.” — Laura Wirtz

enjoy the area as much as the wedding festivities, the couple provided tourist packets as people arrived. Many had never been to Traverse City before and were stunned by both the beauty as well as all there was to do. “Everybody not only enjoyed the Resort, but they went to downtown Traverse City and did a little bit of shopping and enjoyed some area restaurants,” Courtney said. “A couple of people played golf. Others chose to rent the Resort’s condos and stay together for the weekend, which was an added bonus because they were able to spend more quality time with family members. “We were hoping they would make a vacation out of our wedding, and a lot of people were able to do that.” At Their Fingertips John and Laura Wirtz of Port Huron, Mich., also selected the Resort for their June 2012 wedding because they love northern Michigan and the fact that everything they might need was right on the property. Most of their 230 guests stayed at the Resort. Their fathers and groomsmen played golf while

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“the girls” went to the Spa and had their nails done on Friday. That night brought a rehearsal dinner in Aerie Restaurant & Lounge on the Tower’s 16th floor. The festivities didn’t end there. “We just had drinks up at the restaurant until it closed and then we went down to Jack’s, the little bar-restaurant on the main floor, and just got to talk to people we haven’t seen in years,” Laura said. “It was really fun.” There was more fun the next day with more primping in the Spa, an outdoor ceremony under the Pavilion and reception in the Plaza tent. On Sunday morning, the couple made the 15-minute drive to Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport, where boarding is quick and they were soon on their way to Hawaii for two

weeks. “Everything from the time I woke up at 9 a.m. to get my hair done in the Spa until the time we left was absolutely perfect, and we had so much fun with our friends and family,” Laura reflected. “I wouldn’t change a thing.” In fact, their friends and family continue to rave. “They still talk about how it was one of the best weekends,” she said. “It was nice to have an excuse to come to Traverse City and stay at such a nice resort and experience that, and at the same time celebrate our special day with us.” Visit grandtraverseresort. com to learn more about weddings and special event services, and jeansmithphotography.com to see more of Jean Smith’s wedding imagery.

“That perfect Northern Michigan weekend” As Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Special Events Manager, Rachelle Grockau works with many couples who want to share their love for the region as well as their special day with guests. “Almost all of our weddings are destination weddings,” she said. “They want to create that perfect northern Michigan weekend, and I think the Resort captures what they are trying to portray.” Grockau’s role is to tap into the Resort’s considerable resources to carry out the couple’s wishes and ensure that they have the wedding of their dreams. “None of my brides are the same,” she said. “It can range anywhere from coming in on a Friday and organizing a tour for their guests to a barbecue rehearsal dinner at the Beach Club, maybe the wedding in one of our tented locations, maybe

a brunch the next morning on Level 17 (17th ﬂoor) of the Tower. “And there are so many activities,” Grockau added, noting that the Resort’s amenities — including multiple pools, Spa Grand Traverse and championship golf experiences — are all available to wedding guests. Off-property excursions can also be arranged. “So if they want to sail on a tall ship, or go on a winery tour, or visit Sleeping Bear Dunes which is something a lot of our guests want to do, especially since it was voted ‘Most Beautiful Place in America’ — we can do that. “(Brides) want their guests to experience the water, the local life — everything this area has to offer.” They also want to have a beautiful wedding. Grockau and the entire staff make sure that happens, too.

“Just this past weekend, we had a wedding here where everybody was from out of town,” she said. “The bride’s father actually stopped me and put his arms around me and said he couldn’t have dreamed of a better wedding — that he couldn’t have wanted more for his daughter. “We really create the total experience.”

For inspiration, view more “I do’s” in the Photo Gallery at grandtraversere sort.com/weddings.

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meetings & conventions

Right at Home When John Good became the meeting planner for the American Bankruptcy Institute 13 years ago, he was a little mystified as to why the organization’s annual June Central States Bankruptcy Conference had for the previous seven years running been held at the same location — Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Traverse City, an area he’d never heard of. “It was never even a blip on the map,” he said. Then he came for a visit. Mystery solved. “It’s freaking beautiful,” he said. “The weather’s gorgeous. There are lots of exclamation points here.” Good loves it so much that he brought his new wife there for their honeymoon about five

years ago. He happily rattles off the accolades. It’s within driving distance of Chicago, which he likes. And the Resort has the facilities and amenities to accommodate the approximately 400 attendees and 200 to 300 family members who come along each year. “The facilities are big enough,” he noted. “They are able to accommodate us plus two or three other conferences at the same time. And rates are right on par.” That’s not all. “You’ve got golf on site,” Good said. “You’ve got the Beach Club property, so if you’re doing an outdoor opening reception, you’re right on the lake. You’ve got two additional cov-

ered outdoor venues. You’ve got the wide variety of ballrooms.” And then there’s the surrounding region. “We’ve got probably 10 events we do off-site from the property,” added Good, an avid fly fisherman who gets up in the wee hours several days during the conference to go fly fishing before registration opens. In a “Cherry Capital Dinearound,” the group moved between different area restaurants that agreed to close to other business during the event, taking advantage of what he described as Traverse City’s “tremendous foodie resources.” They’ve done catamaran cruises, fishing charters, winery tours, a brew pub crawl — you name it. “A lot of people build their family vacations on it,” Good said. The Institute holds conventions in other regions of the country, typically changing venues each year. But so far, it’s happened in Traverse City and stayed in Traverse City. “We tend to go to the Four Seasons, Ritz Carltons — some very high-end properties,” Good said. “The service level at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, the warmth you get from the people at the property, is great. You’re really treated like family.” Everything on the List Lisa Hart, one of the organizers of an event called the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) Management Briefing Seminars, said her group returns to the Resort year after year for a lot of reasons. For one, the Resort can accommodate a group like theirs — 900 people in 2012. They need large meeting

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ANDY WAKEMAN

rooms that can be split in half for smaller sessions. Check. They need a location convenient for the large crowd that comes from lower Michigan, along with others who come from surrounding states, Canada and many points international. Check. They need staff that is nimble enough to turn an afternoon conference room into an evening car showplace. Check. “They manage to execute very well for us,” Hart said. “The Resort is kind of like a partner with us.

“We’ve had a very successful run with them.” Mission Accomplished And that’s what it’s all about, according to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa Director of Sales Colleen Brzozowski. “We are a national caliber resort and even though there’s not a lot of other competition like us in the surrounding area — we do compete with places like the Broadmoors, the Greenbriers,” Brzozowski said. “But clients outside of the state, often, they have no idea of where we are.

They either think we are Detroit or a little northwoods lodge. “So we try to paint that picture that we are a Norman Rockwell kind of feel downtown, but with all of the amazing restaurants and shops and outdoor activities, it’s really a four-season destination with something for everybody to do.” And once people visit the Resort, they’re sold. “When the information gets sent and they’re looking at everything, it’s almost like it’s too good to be true — to really have all the space, the activiread more at grandtraverseresort.com

ties, the beauty of the area, the affordable costs — all combined into one,” Brzozowski explained. “Then they get here, and look around and say, ‘Oh my gosh, I had no idea.’ They understand. It’s true.” Throw in the Resort’s attention to detail and customer service and, well, what’s not to like? “I think our groups find that

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the experience and willingness of the staff to really customize what we do to fit their needs is huge,” Brzozowski noted. “It’s genuine Midwestern hospital-

ity, but it almost goes a step beyond — like having a guest in your own home.” Learn more at grandtraverse resort.com/meetings.

Creating an Experience Meghan Gamelin is in the business of fun. As Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Event Design Manager, she brings to life the experiences that meeting planners, bridal couples and others organizing major gatherings envision for their events. A conference manager wants an authentic Parisian Street scene created for guests to pass through on their way to a Governors’ Hall banquet. And it needs to be set up in the two hours between when daytime meetings end and the nighttime party begins. Another group wants to showcase a helicopter indoors. And some boats. For another, it’s an elephant. No problem. No problem. No problem. “It’s a blast,” she said. “Every day I come in to a different adventure.” She also creates adventures by arranging off-site excursions for corporate and social groups. Winery tours, brewery

tours, catamaran and tall ship cruises, trips to the renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — she arranges it all. Some ask for charter or fly fishing excursions, and can have their fresh catch cooked up for dinner by the Resort staff upon their return. Gamelin also scouts locations for outings to recommend to guests. It’s a delightful part of the job. “I had to go on the tall ship to see what the experience is,” she illustrated. “I had to go to the dunes. I just got done doing a Short’s Brewery tour because we’re going to start offering that to our guests. I’ve gone to the different wineries, trying to get that experience firsthand. “Especially for corporate groups, we find that probably 60 to 75 percent of those who attend haven’t been here before. So off-property activities highlight the region. We want them to get out and experience Pure Michigan — to taste, feel and see everything the area has to offer.”

TRIP ADVISOR: #1 Activity

• Open daily year round • Wine tasting, bottle service • Corporate and private “Dining in the Vines” • Summer and fall vineyard tours • Parties of 8 or more, please call for reservations

Getting you to Northern Michigan… Quickly & Conveniently! Cherry Capital Airport Connects the WORLD To Northern Michigan

tvcairport.com

Sharing the Wealth Since 1994, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians has given more than $29 million to local communities.

Training and equipment for firefighters. Program funding for veterans, students, and at-risk youth. Food for the hungry and emergency utility assistance for those in need. All of this and more is provided through the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians’ twice-yearly gaming revenue allocation. At a distribution in August 2012, $788,442 was allocated to 43 outstanding organizations located across a six-county area. Each organization falls under the umbrella of a local 62 read more at grandtraverseresort.com

unit of government. It is no easy feat to decide which organizations will receive funding. For the August 2012 distribution, 84 applications were received totaling $1,795,806 in requests. The Grand Traverse Band’s Tribal Council, an elected body, determined how to distribute funds after several weeks of deliberation. And that was just for the first half of the year. The tribe typically makes its second Two Percent Allocation in December or January after the close of the fiscal year. What’s more,

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians Tribal Council Members (l-r): Councilor George Antoine, Vice Chair Robert Kewaygoshkum, Treasurer Jane Rohl, Chairman Alvin Pedwaydon, Councilor JoAnne Gasco, Secretary David Arroyo, Councilor Thomas Shomin.

every penny of the distribution is raised solely through gaming revenues — not taxation. The allocation was created as part of a settlement between the State of Michigan and six tribes, including the Grand Traverse Band. Under the stipulation, each tribe

distributes 2 percent of its revenues from electronic gaming devices — slot machines. The allocations have a huge regional impact. Since 1994, the Grand Traverse Band has distributed over $29 million in total. The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians has over 4,000 members and is one of Northwest Michigan’s cultural and economic leaders, providing services to members in Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee counties. The tribe proudly contributes to the area’s economic stability with hundreds of good paying jobs — mostly filled by non-native residents — and a commitment to nourish education, public safety, and quality of life for everyone region-wide. So relax and enjoy an evening at one of the tribe’s casinos. If you win, great! And if you end up making a little contribution to the community, at least you know it’s for a great cause. For more information about the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians, and the businesses the Tribe operates through its Economic Development Corporation, visit gtbindians.org.

Casino Jargon Here are some terms you may hear next time you visit Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel in Williamsburg or Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge in Peshawbestown. ANTE: In card games, a bet required to begin a hand. An initial compulsory bet before you receive any cards. BUCK: Slang for a wager worth $100. BUTTON: In poker, a button is a small plastic disc that is used as a marker to designate the dealer position. The button moves from player to player after each hand.

COAT-TAIL: To bet the same numbers as someone who is winning at the moment. CROUPIER: The French word for the dealer in games of baccarat and roulette. DIME BET: Slang for a wager worth $1,000. DOWN TO THE FELT: Totally out of money. GEORGE: A player who tips the dealers often and generously. A good tipper. NATURAL: A two-card blackjack hand worth 21 points. A baccarat natural is a two-card

total of eight or nine. PAINT: A Jack, Queen or King. Any face card. PRESSING THE BET: When the proceeds of a win are wagered on the next bet with the original bet amount. SUIT: Any one of the four types of cards: Clubs, Diamonds, Hearts or Spades. WHITE: The most common color used for $1denomination chips.

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Lake Michigan

NORTH MANITOU North Manitou Island Fe r

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

GILL PIER

Ro ut

South Manitou Island

North Lake Leelanau

Ferry Route

LELAND

SU LAKE LEELANAU Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

PORT ONEIDA

Good Harbor Bay

Sleeping Bear Bay

GLEN HAVEN

Lime Lake

GLEN ARBOR

South Lake Leelanau

Glen Lake

MAPLE CITY

Lake Michigan

CEDAR

EMPIRE

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Platte Bay

LAKE ANN

Long Lake Silver Lake

Platte Lake Crystal Lake

HONOR INTERLOCHEN

FRANKFORT BENZONIA

Cat Head Bay

ATWOOD

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Northport Bay

Grand Traverse Bay

NORTHPORT

EASTPORT

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LS R OMENA

PESHAWBESTOWN

UTTONS BAY Suttons Bay Torch Lake

OLD MISSION

KEWADIN

ELK RAPIDS

Bowers Harbor Bay POWER ISLAND

MAPLETON

ALDEN

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Elk Lake West Grand Traverse Bay

East Grand Traverse Bay

RAPID CITY Skegemog Lake

WILLIAMSBURG previous page area map

ACME

TRAVERSE CITY

KALKASKA Vasa Pathway

Brown Bridge Quiet Area

KINGSLEY

Sand Lakes Quiet Area

Traverse City and the surrounding region

To Suttons Bay

W e s t G r a n d Tr a v e r s e B a y

To Old Mission

West Grand Traverse Bay

East Grand Traverse Bay

72 To Acme

To Grand Rapids

W PA RKW

Bay Area Transit Center

3rd

GAR

LAN

Pedestrian Underpass

Visitors Center

D Warehouse District

r man Rive

Clinch Par

TC Chamber

Market

Pedestrian Bridge

State Theater

W. F R O N T

Farmers

UNION

Board

OAK

MAPLE

4th To Munson Hospital

k Beach

G R A N D V I E W PA R K WAY

PA R K

DVIE

CASS

GRAN

2nd

map area shown in detail below

Boardman River

E. FRONT

Pedestrian Underpass

E. FRONT

City Opera House

To NMC College

History Center of Traverse City

WA S

6th

10-Hour Metered Parking

HIN

GTO

CASS

Information

W. 8 t h

DIVISION

AT M

UNION

LOCUST

PINE

Public Restrooms (hours var y)

W. 8 t h

Old Town District

Riv

er Governmental Center

Old Town Parking Deck

WEBSTER

E. 8th

Old Town Playhouse

Boardman Lake

www.downtowntc.com

Cross-Country Skiing

Mountain Biking

Golf Course

Swimming Beach

Hiking

Winery

Lighthouse

Casino

Ski Area

E D AV

7th Lars Hockstad Auditorium

rdm

ROA

Parks

7th

R i v e r Wa l k & P e d e s t r i a n Wa l k w a y s

Boa

RAIL

WA S H I N G T O N

2-Hour Metered Parking

TA R T ( Tr a v e r s e A r e a R e c r e a t i o n a l Tr a i l )

S TAT E

FRANKLIN

Parking Decks

6th

S TAT E

WELLINGTON

O n e - w a y Tr a f fi c

BOARDMAN

5th

WA D S W O R T H

Parking Deck

Traverse Area District Library

WOODMERE

DIVISION

31 72

To Empire

Duncan L. Clinch Marina

Open Space

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