is the original Pictured above g of the concept drawin ly bhouse, original Birchwood Clu completed scheduled to be 75. in the fall of 19
SUMMER GOLF SCHEDULES
WINE DINNERS AND LECTURE SERIES DATES
RACQUET SPORTS SCHEDULES
50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
600 BIRCHWOOD DRIVE, HARBOR SPRINGS, MI
I (231) 526-2166 I WWW.BIRCHWOODCC.COM
BIRCHWOOD LISTINGS
Sandra Gay, Realtor
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services 102 East Main Street Harbor Springs, MI 49740
231.526.9800 231.622.2682
View listings online at
www.bhhsmi.com
Happy Spring to all of our clients, neighbors and friends! NEW LISTING
NEW LISTING
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DIN N E P
Spacious Birchwood Farms home with high end finishes and open floor plan overlooking the 5th fairway of the Farms course. Gourmet kitchen with granite counters, tile backsplash, double ovens, warming drawer and wine rack. A 3-Season porch exits onto the patio with lovely golf course views. This main floor living home has first floor master suite, 2 additional guest rooms, 2 additional full baths, powder room for guests and a den/office area. The lower leve adds an additional bedroom, full bath, family/game room area with grantie topped bar and wine cooler, refrigerator drawers and dishwasher along with plenty of storage area. Priced at $789,000
NEW LISTING
D SOL Peaceful and secluded setting for this warm and inviting Birchwood Farms 3 bedroom, 3 bath home. Loads of living space indoors andout with multiple decks and a hot tub. A stone fireplace graces the living/dining and kitchen area. Two guest bedrooms, updated bath anda main floor laundry. A spacious upper level master suite with a walk-in shower and heated floor. The walk-out lower level includes astone fireplace, kitchen, family room & bath. Many recent updates. Offered furnished in beautiful northern Michigan decor. Offered at $479,000.
NEW CONSTRUCTION
G NDIN
PE
Builder Spec home with high end finishes and premier golf course setting. This 4 bed/3 1/2 bath property offers a high end appliance package; great room with vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, hardwood floors; main floor master suite and office. The upper level adds 3 bedrooms, bonus room and 2 baths. The 3 car attached garage allowing space for those extra toys. Birchwood members enjoy golf, tennis, outdoor pool, pickle ball, bocce ball, walking trails, club house with multiple dining areas, sports bar, pro shop and fitness center. Seller is a licensed Real Estate Broker in the State of Michigan. $569,000
NEW LISTING
D
SOL
Beautiful, fully updated Birchwood Farms home includes 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 bathrooms. Features open concept living with floor to ceiling windows, gourmet kitchen with Waterfall granite countertops, new appliances, coffered ceilings in the living room, bamboo flooring, recessed lighting, ledgerock surrounded fireplace, built-in bookcase with large screen tv and updated bathrooms. The deck provides wonderful outdoor living & entertaining space. $499,900.
NEW CONSTRUCTION
G N I D EN
P
'New Construction' Builder spec home with high end finishes and premier golf course setting. This 4 Bed, 3 1/2 bath property offers a high end appliance package, great room with vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, hardwood floors, office, and main floor master suite. The upper level adds 3 bedrooms, bonus room, and 2 baths. The 3 car attached garage allows space for those extra toys. Birchwood memebers enjoy golf, tennis, outdoor pool, pickle ball, bocce ball, walking trails, clubhouse with multiple dining areas, sports bar, pro shop, and fitness center. $605,889
NEW LISTING
G NDIN
PE
Cute Birchwood Farms ranch home overlooking the 4th hole of the Farms course. Main floor living provides 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, officeand a cozy fireplace in the living room. Lots of wonderful windows bring in light and views of the golf course. The exterior decking adds space for grilling and outdoor entertaining. A finished lower level adds a family room and play area for the kids/grandkids to enjoy. Offered at $479,000
D
SOL
This 2 bedroom and 2.5 bath condominium in Birchwood Farms 'Fairways' Association is situated in a park-like setting overlooking the #1 fairway of the Birches course. Offered furnished; this unit has been updated with granite and new fixtures in the kitchen and bathrooms. Also, new in 2018 are the furnace, AC, water heater, washer, dryer, insta-hot water and electrical outlets, while the sub-zero refrigerator was refurbished with a new motor and compressor. Offering an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, a cozy gas fireplace and 2 bedroomen-suites. Offered at $259,000.
NEW CONSTRUCTION
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Beautiful golf course setting for this custom built Birchwood Farms Ranch home. Includes high end finishes, open concept living w/hardwood floors. Composite deck with screened-in area & fireplace. Finished bonus room & bath above the 3 car attached garage. Scheduled completion date of Summer 2021. $615,000
NEW CONSTRUCTION
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DIN PEN
New Birchwood Farms construction! Beautiful cottage style ranch home with golf course setting overlooking the 7th green of the Birches course. High end finishes and an open floor plan, include a great room with vaulted ceilings, wood floors, gas fireplace. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, office/den, covered lanai with fireplace and bonus room above the 3 car garage. $662,500
Exceptional Land Values - Wooded, Waterview and Golf Course Lots Available. Call for details.
For information call Berkshire Hathaway at 231-526-9800 or visit our website at www.bhhsmi.com Visit free us online at www.birchwoodcc.com 102 East Main Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740 (toll 866-526-9009)
1
THE RIDGE
CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION UNDER CONSTRUCTION •20 Units in Four Phases •Single Story Ranch & Two-Story Townhouse Configuration •All with First Floor Master Suites, Two-Car Attached Garages & Full Basements •Open Concept Floor Plans, Gas Fireplaces, Wood Floors & High-end Appliance Package RANCH UNITS are 2,102 Finished sq. ft. and start at $595,000 TWO-STORY Units are 2,507 Finished sq. ft. and start at $615,000
TAKING RESERVATIONS NOW
Call Sandy Gay, Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services at (231) 622-2662 for additional information.
Sandra Gay REALTOR
®
d: 231.526.9800 I c: 231.622.2682 sandragay228@gmail.com View listings online at www.bhhsmi.com
2
102 East Main Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Produced By:
Birchwood Farms Golf & Country Club
Editor & Advertising Contact:
Emma Aown (231) 526-2166 Ext. 538 emma@birchwoodcc.com
Layout/Design: Dog Eat Dog Graphic Design (231) 330-4389
BIRCHWOOD FARMS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
600 Birchwood Drive Harbor Springs, MI 49740 www.birchwoodcc.com General Manager/COO Paul Marazzo Board of Trustees Nancy Sarowski President
Ed Murphy
Vice President
Neil Loney Treasurer
Doug Fertuck Secretary
Trustees Jan Denning Bill Donohue Terry Glissman John Pennell Kathy Thompson
Telephone Directory Clubhouse
(231) 526-2166
Clubhouse Fax
(231) 526-9411
Golf Shop
(231) 526-6245
Racquet Sports Shop (231) 526-2372 Security
(231) 526-2751
f Like us on Facebook
www.facebook.com/birchwoodcc
T Follow us on Twitter
www.twitter.com/birchwoodcc
Contents From the President………………………………………………4 From the General Manager………………………………………6 New Member Spotlight………………………………………...8 Lecture Series……………………………………………………9 Executive Chef…………………………………………………10 Director of Catering…………………………………………...10 Restaurant Manager……………………………………………10 Racquet Sports Professional……………………………….…12 Birchwood Outreach Fund……………………………………15 Director of Golf………………………………………………17 Golf Committee………………………………………………19 Community Calendar…………………………………………22 Nature’s Notebook……………………………………………24 Security & EMS…………………………………………………27 BWA Mixed Golf…………………………………………………28 Birchwood Women’s Association……………………………29-31 Birchwood Directory…………………………………………33
Our Vision
To be recognized as the most desirable, member-owned country club and residential community in Northern Michigan.
Our Mission
To realize our Vision by: • Providing current and future members, and their families, with outstanding golf, tennis, swimming, and dining as well as varied social and recreational experiences • Continually increasing member satisfaction in club value and service • Maintaining Club facilities and community infrastructure • Investing wisely in amenities and facilities to increase the value of the club • Governing the Club in the interests of all Members through a balanced and open decision-making process • Being a responsible and valued member of the broader community 3
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FROM THE PRESIDENT Spring. What a wonderful word. The ramps and mushrooms will begin to pop up. That means we can harvest delicious foods without planting! Amazing. The white trillium will carpet the forest floor alongside our roads. The baby fox will be romping around to our delight. The fawns will be jumping in and out of the pond to the total distraction of their mothers. Trillions of tree frogs, first in the form of tadpoles on the edges of ponds. Then in the form of the tiniest frogs hopping around on the ground, will sing their announcement of Spring. The glories of Nature that we, in Birchwood, appreciate and protect. It is such a blessing to have the sights and sounds of Spring after the quiet and beautiful snowy days of winter. Saturday, May 28th is our Spring Membership Meeting in the morning and the Spring Mingle Party in the evening. This is the perfect time and place to welcome back our friends who have been vacationing. It is a unique experience of Birchwood. About 300 of our homeowners leave in the late Fall and return in the Spring. Every year, we have the opportunity to let our friends know that we’ve missed them and look forward to playing games, having dinners and relaxing with them once again.
Nancy Sarowski President
Ed Murphy Vice President
Neil Loney Treasurer
You won’t want to miss the meeting because the Board of Trustees and Paul Marazzo, our General Manager, will be presenting exciting information on some of the projects that we are considering this year. If you are unable to attend in person, information will be sent out which will enable you to join the meeting via conference call. Copies of the meeting presentations will also be available ahead of the meeting. This year is our 50th anniversary. Several members and staff have been planning some exciting events for all of us. Be sure to check them out in the Birchwood Happenings weekly emails. Mark your calendars Saturday, August 13th for an unforgettable 50th Anniversary Party being planned by Birchwood’s Activities Committee. Ann Fertuck and her committee members are very excited to present a truly fun evening.
Doug Fertuck Secretary
Jan Denning Trustee
Golf, swimming, tennis, pickleball, exercise classes, yoga, bridge, mahjongg, hiking, day trips, lectures and of course lots of events planned around good food! We look forward to all of it because we have such wonderful friends with whom to share the fun. Happy Spring! Sincerely, Nancy Sarowski President, Board of Trustees nsarowski@gmail.com
Bill Donohue Trustee
Terry Glissman Trustee
Spring Membership Meeting Saturday, May 28th Birchwood Clubhouse Main Dining Room Continental Breakfast at 8:00am Meeting at 9:00am
John Pennell Trustee
4
Kathy Thompson Trustee
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETINGS
Monday, April 25th Monday, May 23rd Monday, June 27th Monday, July 25th Monday, August 29 Monday, September 19th All Meetings start at 9:00am (unless otherwise noted) and are open to all members. Locations and methods to join the meeting are To Be Determined for any given month.
NEW 48-HOUR CANCELATION EVENT POLICY Members, please note that as of March 2022 there was a new cancelation policy approved by the Board of Trustees. Certain Club events will now have a 48-hour cancelation policy from the date of the event. Events that have this policy will have a badge on the flyer. Example: If there is an event on Wednesday, members need to cancel their reservation by 10:00am Monday morning. Members can cancel their reservation on their own online, by calling the front desk, emailing the receptionist, or by leaving a voicemail.
Contact Emma Aown at emma@birchwoodcc.com for meeting locations and ways to join meetings remotely. Send questions or concerns for agenda topics to President, Nancy Sarowski at nsarowski@gmail.com
5
FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER As our winter months fade away and our beautiful Birchwood days become longer, I want to say a big Thank You to our Members who were here with us throughout the cold months - we really appreciate your continued winter support! I thought Tuesday Nights in our Casual Bar through the winter months were successful and I hope all enjoyed Chef’s lighter fare.
Paul Marazzo General Manager
Speaking of our Executive Chef, it gives me great pleasure to report that Rob Antoine has accepted the position as Birchwood’s Executive Chef. Chef Rob has been with Birchwood for almost 20 years and continues to do an outstanding job improving and developing our culinary operations and team.
In addition to Rob’s promotion, I am pleased to announce that Tammy Umlor has accepted the position of Restaurant Manager here at the Club.You may recognize Tammy from our Three Way House in past summer seasons. Tammy has been with us for almost three years and we all feel very confident with Tammy at the helm. Please join me in congratulating and welcoming both Tammy and Rob to Birchwood’s Management Team! Birchwood held its Annual Employee Appreciation Party on March 13th for our entire staff and their families. It really was a fun time for all. Each year Birchwood’s Management Team selects from our Employee of the Month recognition program, two employees worthy of our Full-Time Employee of the Year and our Seasonal Employee of the Year. These exceptional folks set the example for all of us and Birchwood is very lucky to have them. Please join me in congratulating Todd Webster from our Golf Maintenance Department as our 2021 Full-Time Employee of the Year as well as Payne Schansky from our Racquets Department as our 2021 Seasonal Employee of the Year. Congratulations and sincerest Thank You to Todd and Payne for their professionalism and dedication to Birchwood. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIRCHWOOD! This year marks Birchwood’s 50th Birthday - we have come a long way since our beginning in 1972. Birchwood’s original developer, Bill Cottrill conceived a residential - resort development concept unique to northern Michigan back in the early 1970’s, then known as The Old Birchwood Farm Estate, where Birchwood property owners had unlimited use of our community’s private country club amenities at no additional cost. We are having a blast looking through our archives from the early days of our Club, back when an 8oz Ribeye Steak was served in our Clubhouse Dining Room for a mere $11.50!
2021 BIRCHWOOD EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2021 Seasonal Employee of the Year
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2021 Full-Time Employee of the Year
Payne Schansky
Todd Webster
Racquet Sports Department
Golf Maintenance Department
We will kick off our summer season and 50th year celebration in May with a host of surprises and activities to celebrate Birchwood and the people who made our wonderful Club possible - our Membership! Birchwood’s Anniversary Celebration will be held on Saturday, August 13th, be sure to mark your calendars.We hope you will join us in celebrating the love and traditions Birchwood has developed over the past 50 years. As some of you may know, Birchwood contracted Reserve Study Advisors to conduct a thorough study of our community infrastructure and overall facilities. With the oversight of Birchwood’s Board of Trustees, our Management Team, as well as our committees, we will spend a lot of quality time over the remainder of this year focusing on strategic planning, as well as developing a master plan to meet the infrastructure challenges facing our community.
our Membership. Every decision, whether it’s improving the footprint of our club regarding amenities or decisions of a financial nature, it all revolves around preserving membership value. In closing, I believe Birchwood finds itself in a position of strength heading into our 2022 season and beyond. I have complete confidence our Club will continue to develop strategically as we face the challenges ahead. I know Birchwood has the right people in place to assure we are successful as we move forward strategically. As we make these strategic moves, we must always keep in mind what the true strength of Birchwood is, and that is all of us - our Membership as well as our staff, working together so the next generation can enjoy this wonderful club for the next 50 years and beyond. Thank you for your continued support!
Birchwood certainly is the top private, country club community in the state of Michigan. Member engagement is our number one priority and is crucial to the success of our club moving forward. Everything we do is about improving our club for
Renters
Attention Birchwood homeowners please note that our rental policy has changed. We ask all members that rent their home within Birchwood to please notify us. Please contact Nancy in Accounting at (231) 526-2166 ext 521 or email AR@birchwoodcc.com
Welcome to Birchwood 24-Hour Cancelation Policy for the Grill Room 24-Hour notice is now required for reservation cancelations in the Grill Room. Failure to cancel with 24-notice will result in a $25.00 charge to the reserving Member, paid directly to the dining room server to make up for loss in gratuity.
Paul Marazzo, General Manager paul@birchwoodcc.com 231-526-2166 Ext. 512
NEW
POLICY
Birchwood’s 48 Hour Cancelation Policy Cancelations for specified special events must be received at least 48 hours prior to the activity or the reserving member will be charged 50% of the event charge. Failure to cancel or not attend will result in a full charge (100%) for the event.
Birchwood’s 14 Day Cancelation Policy Cancelations for selected events and activities (for example, the Lecture Series) must be received at least 14 days prior to avoid having to pay a cancelation fee of 50% of the event charge. If a cancelation is received within 14 days of the event, and the opening is filled by another member who is on the wait list, no cancelation fee will be charged. Failure to cancel or attend will result in a full charge (100%) for the event.
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NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT STEVE AND CONNIE VORENKAMP New Property Owners
Steve and Connie Vorenkamp
Connie and Steve Vorenkamp moved to Petoskey in 1983 with their four children from “downstate” Michigan. Their children graduated from Petoskey High School and went off to college and graduate schools, settling in all parts of the country and abroad, while Steve practiced orthopedic surgery at Bay Street Orthopedics, and Connie was involved in community projects with the Petoskey Youth Soccer Association, Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council and the Top of Michigan Trails Council. By 2016 the couple “retired” and moved to Portland, Oregon to be closer to 3 of their children who were residing in Southern California, Portland and Seattle. Connie and Steve love Oregon and enjoy their favorite activities of birding, mushrooming, and traveling throughout the Pacific Northwest. That said, they are happy to be able to spend time again in Michigan near extended family and friends. Connie and Steve have always enjoyed visits to Birchwood for cross country skiing, tennis, and bicycling along the “Tunnel of Trees” and are happy to now call it home.
ROLAND AND CHRIS TROMBLEY New Property Owners
Roland and Chris Trombley
Roland and Chris are looking forward to their first season at Birchwood in a home on Turfway Trail. Having most recently lived in Birmingham, Michigan, they have been summer residents of Harbor Springs for 25 years and became social members of Birchwood last summer. Roland was born and raised in metro Detroit and enjoyed a 36 year career in the media business while working for some of the most notable companies in that industry. Chris was raised in the tri-state area on the east coast and has enjoyed a life creating art. Her work can be seen in numerous galleries in the area.They have two grown children, Connor and Elizabeth, who reside in the Metro Detroit area and a 4 year old Golden Doodle named Coco who can be seen with them enjoying the Birchwood property. Roland and Chris are looking forward to moving in this spring and continuing their love for pickleball, golf, hiking, boating and any outdoor activity allowing them to enjoy the beautiful seasons in Northern Michigan.
JIM AND CINDY RANDAZZO
New Property Owners
Jim and Cindy have been married for 34 years and have two daughters, two sons-in-law, and three Grandsons; a three-year-old, one year old, and seven-month-old. Jim is from Wellesley, Massachusetts and Cindy from Bay City, Michigan. Jim is the Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Aqua Star headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Cindy is retired and spends her time volunteering, participating in book club, and playing Mahjong. Both Jim and Cindy love to ski and look forward to finally having the time to enjoy the wonderful amenities In Birchwood.
Cindy and Jim Randazzo 8
2 2 20
LECTURE SERIES
Starts June 16, 2022
Price: $30.00++ Per Person
Registration for Lecture Series opens on Monday, May 2nd, 2022. You will be able to make reservations for individual dates on the Club's website, www.birchwoodcc.com, or by calling our receptionist at (231)526-2166. The cancelation policy remains as last year – reservations must be canceled no later than 14 days prior to each lecture. Cancelations within 14 days of the event will result in a result in a charge of 50% of the event fee per reservation. Please refer to page 7 for a full explanation of the 14 – Day Cancelation Policy.
(++ means plus tax and gratuity)
Lecture Series events will begin with cocktails at 5:30pm in our Main Dining Room and dinner served at 6:15pm sharp. The lectures will begin at 7:15pm. We will continue our policy to cap attendance at 125 to ensure comfortable seating and full enjoyment for all. The first 125 reservations will be assured attendance; names above 125 will be maintained on a waiting list in the event of cancelations.
Thursday, June 16th
HISTORY OF BIRCHWOOD FARMS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
In celebration of Birchwood Farms Golf & Country Club’s 50th Anniversary, a special evening is planned! A panel including, Tom Brogger, Craig Cottrill, and Dick Stewart will share stories and pictures of the history and development of the property and the many changes it has undergone. Challenges were overcome, issues were met, and the vision of our special club has been realized! Tom Brogger is Birchwood Farms’ longest-standing employee and is the current Golf Course Superintendent. Craig Cottrill is the nephew of Bill Cottrill, who was the Original Developer of Birchwood Farms Estate. Dick Stewart served as Birchwood Farms first golf professional and is a long-standing member.
Thursday, July 21th KIEREN FLEMING
Vermilion Point lies along an expansive shoreline of Lake Superior, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With endangered species and a historic lifesaving station, it is one our unique gems in the region. The program will explore the history, natural features, and conservation of this amazing resource.
Be sure t reserve y o ou space ear r ly. These eve nts f up quickl ill y!
Wednesday, August 10th
JENNIFER MCKAY
Jennifer McKay joined Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council in May of 2005. As Policy Director, Jennifer is responsible for federal, Great Lakes Basin wide, state, and local policy and advocacy to improve protections for Michigan’s water resources. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered the shutdown of Enbridge Energy’s Line 5 by May of 2021 due to repeated violations of the 1953 easement allowing operations of the pipeline in the Straits of Mackinac. Yet, Enbridge continues to defy that order and keeps operating Line 5. Join Watershed Council Policy Director Jennifer McKay to learn more about the latest updates on Line 5 and where the Great Lakes Tunnel proposal stands today, as well as the significant environmental concerns the Watershed Council has with the proposed Great Lakes Tunnel Project.
Thursday, September 8th STEVE LIBERT
Steve Libert was an eighth-grader in Dayton, OH, when he become intrigued by the mystery of a ship called The Griffin, in French ‘Le Griffon’. His history teacher told a tale of the lost ship that sparked Steve’s imagination of early exploration; and fifty-one years later Steve is still intrigued by the story. ‘Le Griffon’, the flagship of explorer Rene-Robert Cavalier, Sieur de La Salle, disappeared in 1679 on her maiden voyage. She was the first upper-decked vessel known to have sailed above Niagara Falls and into the upper Great Lakes. Historic records sat the iconic ship disappeared near the Huron Islands – but what islands are those now? And where are they? A search for the ship would continue over 340 years. Steve’s interest in undersea technology, exploration and diving began when that eighth-grade teacher reached over and touched Steve’s shoulder and said out loud in class, “Maybe one day someone in this class will find it!”
9
EXECUTIVE CHEF Greetings Members, On behalf of the culinary team, I am happy to say welcome back for another great season here at Birchwood.We look forward to celebrating the Club’s 50th Anniversary with great food and fun events. Our goal is to continue our hard work to elevate this Club and make all of your visits memorable.We continue our mission to bring the freshest and highest quality ingredients to your table, prepared with great care. From our continued work with local fishery, Big Stone Bay and the great selections of global seafood from Carmella Foods, to sourcing beautiful organic produce from Chef’s Garden of Ohio, we are sure to showcase a variety of quality foods for your enjoyment. We also look forward to bringing back many Club favorites from over the years, such as the classic Goldbrick Sundae, enjoyed in the early years at Birchwood! We invite you for Easter Brunch on Sunday, April 17th, and don’t forget to treat all the mothers out there to a nice morning out at our Annual Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet on Sunday, May 8th – Mark your calendars! Once again, my staff and I look forward to the summer season as we continue to build on the culinary history of your Club. Rob Antoine, Executive Chef (231)526-2166 Ext. 532 chef@birchwoodcc.com
DIRECTOR OF CATERING The Birchwood Catering Department is in full Planning Mode for our upcoming season! Celebrating 50 years is a big reason to celebrate this summer! Birchwood’s history will be sprinkled through many of our summer festivities - Even the kids are getting in on the fun! Wedding season will be in full bloom, and we are hosting quite a few this year. Birchwood is becoming a premier wedding destination, which is a testament to all the beauty our Club has to offer. Member-referrals for weddings will receive a $500 Food & Beverage credit upon their booking. So spread the message to everyone you know that we are the best spot in town to make their day amazing! It’s exciting to welcome everyone back for the summer and our availability for those private dinners and parties is filling up fast! Contact me now to book your date on the North Deck or in the Library. We are also offering our Meet, Eat and Golf packages once again - Give your employees the best spot in town for a business meeting! Call me today to get scheduled for all your event and party needs this season. It is our top priority to make your experience at an event top notch. If you have dietary restrictions, please note that on your reservation or contact me directly to ensure those needs are met. Also, please take note of the new 48-hour cancelation policy for all events including golf and tennis. Some special events, such as Lecture Series and Wine Dinners, do adhere to the two-week cancelation policy. These policies help us give you the best service possible. I am looking forward to seeing everyone soon for another amazing Birchwood summer! Sara Tye, Director of Catering (231)526-2166 ext. 539 sara@birchwoodcc.com
RESTAURANT MANAGER Hello Birchwood Members! My name is Tammy and this will be my 3rd summer here at Birchwood. Some of you have seen me at the Three-Way House or doing various things in the restaurant. As of December 2021, my new role is Restaurant Manager, which I am very happy and excited about! After the busy holiday season, I’ve been working on getting ready for the upcoming summer season, which should be a 10
fun and exciting one as Birchwood celebrates “50 Years”! Our team has some wonderful things planned throughout the season to celebrate. I’m looking forward to another great summer here and meeting the members I haven’t yet and fulfilling all your dining pleasures. Tammy Umlor, Restaurant Manager 231-526-2166 Ext. 534 restaurant@birchwoodcc.com
Meet Eat Golf Business meetings and golf
{
packages available!
Price packages based on number of guests, ++ starting at $135 Per Person
}
Contact Sara Tye, Director of Catering for more details! 231) 526-2166 ext. 539 or email sara@birchwoodcc.com
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RACQUET SPORTS PROFESSIONAL Dear Racquet Sports Enthusiasts, As we move closer to the start of the racquets season the first thing that comes to my mind is Passion. The passion that the new racquets committee has for improving all aspects of Bocce, Pickleball and Tennis. The passion that our Membership has for Bocce, Pickleball and Tennis, is what makes the Birchwood community so much fun. The Passion that our staff has to help and improve players games and overall experience. The Racquets Department is excited about continuing to fan the flames of that passion. We are here to help grow all those areas and create an environment of learning, fun, safety (both physical and mental), community and athletic improvement. We are introducing a new Special Event for Racquets this season. It is the Birchwood Racquets Invitational Weekend August 20th-21st. There will be a Men’s and Women’s Pickleball Round-Robin Event on Saturday Morning, a Bocce Event on Saturday afternoon, and a party on Saturday night for all participants! On Sunday there will be a Men’s and Women’s Tennis Round Robin Event. Please Save the Date and start to consider who you can invite as your guest. We also are introducing a new Pickleball Special Event Clinic this season. DJ Howard, with Never Stop Playing Pickleball, will be presenting (4) three-hour clinics - two on June 21st and two on June 22nd. We are offering a new tennis program for adults this year! Tennis Live Ball and 105 Games will be hosted on Thursdays from 9:00am-10:30am. This is a co-ed event and is loads of fun. For 105, you need 8 or more adults to play this game, and you split up the 4 players (or more) on each side. Two players from each team step up doubles-style and await a feed from the feeder standing at one of the net posts. The team receiving the feed must let the ball bounce before they hit it. Feeder, the feeds can be as difficult as you want them to be! The older the kids, the more ridiculous the feeds should be. After the feed is given the two teams play out the point. The doubles team that wins the point stay in for the next point. The losing doubles team is out and goes to the back of the line on their side while the next doubles team on that team steps in. The point of the game is to be the first team to reach 105 points. Live Ball is very similar. Both are fun, fast-paced games and should be lots of fun. Can’t wait to see you on the courts this summer! Sincerely, Chuck Reisig Director of Racquet Sports USPTA ELITE PRO chuck@birchwoodcc.com 12
2022 Tennis Programs and Special Events Contact the Racquet Sports Shop at 231-526-2372 for more information or to make court reservations. Tennis Adult Programs begin Monday, June 6th and Junior Programs begin Friday, June 13th. Adult Tennis Drills & Clinics Tennis Core Academy 4.0-5.5 Men, Women, & Advanced Juniors – Mondays & Wednesdays 5:30pm-7:00pm Tennis Adult Beginner – Fridays 10:30am-11:30am Adult Advanced Beginner – Tuesdays 10:30am-11:30am Tennis Live Ball and 105 Games Thursdays 9:00am -10:30am Mixed Drill & Play Men’s and Women’s Drill & Play 2.5-4.0 every Wednesday 9:00am-10:30am Women’s Tennis Drill & Play 2.5-4.0 every Tuesday 9:00am-10:30am Adult Organized Tennis Schedule Men’s Day Tennis Every Monday & Friday 9:00am-11:00am Women’s Day Tennis Every Monday 9:00am-11:00am Mixed Doubles Every Saturday 10:00am - 12:00pm Junior Tennis Programs Session 1: June 13-July 7 Session 2: July 11 - August 4 Session 3: August 8 - September 1
$105 Member $150 Non-Member Per Person
Junior Beginners every Tuesday & Thursday 10:30am-11:30am Junior Advanced every Tuesday & Thursday11:30am-12:30pm Teen Tennis every Tuesday & Thursday 11:30am-12:30pm Tennis Special Events – Save these Dates! Meet the Pros Open House 5:00pm-6:00pm Friday, June 3rd Take a Swing at Cancer Racquets Fundraiser Tuesday, June 14th Introduce a Friend to Tennis Day – Sunday, June 8th Men’s Doubles Club Championship Sunday, July 17th Women’s Double Club Championship Sunday, July 17th Mixed Doubles Club Championship Saturday, August 13th Birchwood Racquets Invitational Weekend August 20th & 21st - Party Saturday Night, August 20th
2022 Pickleball Programs and Special Events Contact the Racquet Sports Shop at 231-526-2372 to make court reservations or for more information. Pickleball begins Monday, May 16th and Pickleball Clinics begin Monday, June 6th. Pickleball Open Play Schedule Pickleball Open Play Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays 8:30am -10:30am Non-Competitive Pickleball Open Play Mondays – 5:30pm – 7:30pm Beginners Pickleball Open Play Tuesdays 3:30pm – 5:00pm All Levels Pickleball Open Play Sundays 10:30am – 12:00pm Pickleball Programs Men’s 8-Player Round Robin with Signup Mondays 10:30am – 12:00pm Intermediate/Advanced Play with Signup Mondays 12:00pm – 2:00pm Intermediate/Advanced Play with Signup Wednesdays & Fridays 10:30am – 12:30pm Pickleball Challenge Court Tuesdays 8:30am – 10:30am
Pickleball Clinics Intermediate/Advanced Clinic with Signup Thursdays 10:30am – 12:00pm Introduction to Pickleball Clinic with Signup Thursdays 8:30am - 9:30am & Fridays 12:30pm – 1:30pm Beginner/Advanced Beginner Clinic with Signup Thursdays 9:30am – 10:30am & Fridays 1:30pm - 2:30pm Pickleball Special Events Introduce a Friend to Pickleball Day Saturday, June 4th 12:00pm Take a Swing at Cancer Racquets Fundraiser Tuesday, June 14th 10:00am Never Stop Playing Pickleball Camps Tuesday, June 21st & Wednesday, June 22nd Men’s Doubles Club Championship Saturday, July 30th Women’s Double Club Championship Saturday, July 30th Mixed Doubles Club Championship Saturday, August 6th Birchwood Racquets Invitational Weekend August 20th & 21st - Party Saturday Night, August 20th Pickleball Dink and Drink Sundays from 4:00-6:00pm June 12th, June 26th, July 10th, July 24th, August 14th & August 28th
Women’s 8-Player Round Robin with Sign-up Thursdays 3:00-5:00pm
Bocce
Three courts are available! Contact the Racquet Sports Pro Shop at 231-526-2372 to reserve a court for your family or group. Casual dress and court shoes required.
Daily play available from dawn to dusk.
Bocce League
Bocce League begins Sunday, June 26th and is scheduled from 4:00pm -6:00pm every Sunday. Contact the Racquet Sports Shop at (231)526-2372 for more information or if you are interested in joining a team or have a team that would like to play in the league. 13
4Full landscape design services 4Blueprints 4Complete installation with own crew 4Detailed planting advice 4Hourly consultations
Award Winning Gardens European Landscape Designer MARGUERITE N. DECKER Landscape Design and Maintenance
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Office: 313-885-3716 Mobile: 313-580-1113 www.MNDLandscape.com Email: marguerite@mndlandscape.com
4Maintenance
Birchwood Outreach Fund Your Birchwood Outreach Fund (BOF) had another great year in 2021! Through the generous support of so many Birchwood Farms Golf and Country Club members, the BOF was able to provide financial aid to 10 important local charities. This assistance varied from providing food for families, to youth development, to helping with the local affordable housing problem. The last couple of years have seen an increase in the needs in the areas of mental health and youth development, due to the lack of normal social interactions (because of Covid), as well as the continuation of the hunger and local housing challenges. But, how much do you actually know about your Birchwood Outreach Fund? Please see below a quick quiz to test your knowledge of your BOF (answers are at the bottom of this article) Q 1: What is the mission of the Birchwood Outreach Fund? a. To support projects within Birchwood Farms b. To support local charitable organizations within the Harbor Springs-Petoskey area c. To support the Harbor Springs Chamber of Commerce Q 2: With which organization is the Birchwood Outreach Fund affiliated? a. The Petoskey Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation (PHSACF) b. The Harbor Springs Chamber of Commerce c. The Harbor Springs Rotary Club Q 3: By whom is the Birchwood Outreach Fund run? a: The General Manager at Birchwood Farms b: The President of the Birchwood Farms Board c: A committee of members of Birchwood Farms Q 4: What is the granting process for the Birchwood Outreach Fund? a. A general request for those wishing grants is sent to the local community b. The PHSACF receives and vets grant requests for BOF consideration c. The BOF has a direct application process Q 5: What is the source of funds for the Birchwood Outreach Fund? a. All of the funds granted by the BOF come directly from donations by members of Birchwood Farms b. The BOF applies for grants and then uses those funds to help local charities c. The General Manager of Birchwood Farms designates some money from the Club Budget to the BOF
Q 6: How can members of Birchwood contribute to the BOF? a. Send a check to the PHSACF b. Make a donation online at the PHSACF website c. Both a. and b. are correct Q7: Is your donation to the BOF tax deductible? a. Yes b. Yes, though it may depend on your personal taxation situation c. No Although the BOF Committee has an annual appeal each Fall, we are always grateful for any donation at all times of the year. If you would like to donate, please send your tax deductible gift, made payable to Petoskey Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation (PHSACF) to the address below, or go online to phsacf.fcsuite.com/erf/donate and click on Birchwood Outreach Fund. Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation 616 Petoskey Street, Suite 203 Petoskey, MI 49770 Please remember to write “Birchwood Outreach Fund” in the memo line. Thank you very much for helping to make a difference. Your Birchwood Outreach Fund Committee Nancy Baity, Jack Baker, Ron Baldwin, Connie Donovon, Carol Hanson, Jeff Higgs, Christine MacKenzie, Bob Peterson and Linda Riley Answers to the questions: 1.b 2.a 3.c 4.b 5.a 6.c 7.b 15
BIRCHWOOD FARMS G O LF & C O U NT RY C LUB
1970’S THEMED
SPRING MINGLE
COCKTAIL PARTY Saturday, May 28th 6:30pm $50.00++ per person Reservations required, please call 231-526-2166 or make your reservation online at www.birchwoodcc.com
Green Coat proudly presents
MEN’S MEMBER/GUEST INVITATIONAL
Save the Dates
WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY
JULY 13, 14, 15 & 16 2022
Saturday, July 24th 12:00pm-8:00pm Do you have a Classic Car 2000 or older and want to show it off? Join fellow classic car enthusiasts and showcase your classic ride!
Contact Keith Deyer at kwdeyer@comcast.net for more information and to register by July 10th. 16
2 -Person Teams 2-Day Ringer Tournament Low Net – Overall Champion Honoring Low Gross 18-Hole Division $250.00 Per Person 9 – Hole Division – Details to Follow
DIRECTOR OF GOLF Greetings from the Golf Shop! As we enter our 50th year here at Birchwood Farms I’m very excited to be a part of the celebration and I look forward to the festivities! The online golf calendar is now live so you may sign up for all Club events for the season. Daily tee times are still 7 days in advance with the exception of Saturday and Sunday. Members may make tee times for both days on the Saturday prior. Regarding our golf shop staff, I’m sorry to say that Dan Bowerman will not be returning this year. Dan reached out to me a couple of months ago and told me that he was going to acquire his teaching degree and join his wife as a teacher here in Harbor Springs. I certainly understand his decision but I’m sure going to miss him! He was a big part of the team and brought a positive presence to the shop. Best of luck, Dan! Moving forward, Head Professional Tyler Fisher has returned and is geared up for another great season.Tyler has really grown into his position the last two years and I’ll be leaning on him a little more this year. As of this writing I’m actively searching for another qualified assistant. There’s another seasonal position that I’d like to highlight in this edition and that is our Teaching Professional, Lloyd Johnson. I’m sure that most of you know Lloyd and his presence on the east end of the driving range but I’m sure there’s a lot that you may not know. Lloyd has been coming to Birchwood Farms, from the Naples, FL area, since 2004. His schedule is typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day, each season. I first met him through my brother Cary who was a PGA Professional in the Chicago area for many years. Lloyd worked for Cary in the late 90’s. When Lloyd wanted to focus on his teaching career Cary introduced us and here we are 18 years later! Lloyd’s passion and expertise are in the skill of teaching others, of all levels, to play better golf. When he’s not in Harbor Springs he’s back in Naples with his family, wife Alex and daughters Ryane, 14 and Kate, 11. Lloyd is currently the Lead Master Instructor at Impact Zone Golf in Naples, FL. Through the years he has worked with PGA touring pros Craig Perks, Chip Beck, Grante Waite and Eric Booker, just to name a few. He was also a Golf Digest top 100 instructor nominee in 2011-12. If you have ever taken a lesson or a clinic with Lloyd then you already know how passionate he is about helping our Members improve. As we all know, lessons aren’t for everyone but if you haven’t spent a little time with
Lloyd, I encourage you give it a try! I want to thank Lloyd for his many years of service and loyalty to Birchwood and our Members. Thanks Lloyd! As you saw in the article from our Golf Co-Chairs, Linda Temple and Gail Torreano, our Committee is in place and each Member has a task. I look forward to working with all of them again this year. I really believe that our calendar has a great balance of events and open tee times. It can be very challenging to accommodate both, those Members that live here for the summer and those that we may only see on weekends or holidays. Our goal is to provide event and tee time options for all of our Members. Before closing, I’d like to list some friendly reminders as we head into our season. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding any of these and thanks in advance for your help. • Dress code: Our Board of Trustees have been working diligently on all of our Club’s rules and regulations and the dress code is a big part of this. Please familiarize yourself with the dress code policy. This pertains to all Members, family members and guests of Members. It can be uncomfortable for a staff member to address these rules so please help. • WGA Golf: The deadline for weekly registration is on Tuesday at 3:00pm. There’s much to do to prepare for the event each Wednesday so the staff needs this time to set-up for both the 9 & 18-hole divisions. Also, lunch is included unless you opt out prior to Wednesday.You may do so either upon registration online or by notifying the golf shop before Wednesday. • 48-hour Cancellation Policy: As in the F&B department, our golf events will also include this cancellation policy. This is to allow our culinary team to accurately order and prepare for all food requirements before the scheduled event. If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know in advance as well. Again, thank you in advance for your understanding and support of all of our rules, regulations and policies. We’ve got a big club with a lot of moving parts, so the more that we all work together the better off we’ll all be! That’s about it for now. We’ll be off and running before you know it! For those of you traveling back to Harbor Springs soon I wish you safe travels. As always, don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any thoughts, comments or questions.This is your Club and we are here to provide you with the best possible experience that we can.Thanks for your continued support and friendship. Sincerely, Cris Cavitt, Director of Golf PGA Professional cris@birchwoodcc.com 231-526-6245 Ext. 517 17
2022 GOLF SCHEDULE *Dates/Times Subject to Change
MAY 2022 1 Course Open (Weather Dependent) 30 Memorial Day Event: Shotgun Straight Scramble JUNE 2022 1 WGA Opening Day 2 Dawn Mercer Graduate Clinic 2 WGA 18 Tri-Club at CCB 3 Men’s Opening Day 3 5 Dawn Mercer Graduate Clinic 7 BWA Mixed Golf Opening Day 8 WGA Day 9 WGA 18-Hole Clinic: Driving & Fairway Shots 10 Men’s Day 10 WGA 9-Hole Clinic 12 Couples Competitive Golf Event 14 BWA Mixed Golf 15 WGA Day - Beat the Pro 17 No Men’s Day 17 TASAC Club Cancer Event with Dinner 18 New Member Golf Clinic 18 XXIO Demo Day 20 WGA - Member/Member Golf 21 BWA Mixed Golf 21 WGA 18 at PBVCC 22 WGA – Member/Member 23 Humane Society Fundraiser Golf Event 24 Men’s Day 25 26 Men’s Member/Member 27 WGA – Sr. Gross Championship 28 BWA Mixed Golf 28 Junior Golf 29 WGA Day
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JULY 2022 1 No Men’s Day 2 Independence Day Scramble 5 BWA Mixed Golf 5 Junior Golf 5 7 The First Tee 6 WGA Day 7 WGA 9-Hole Clinic 7 Junior Golf 8 Men’s Day 8 WGA 18-Hole Clinic: Up, Down, & Side Hill Shots 10 Family Golf Event 12 BWA Mixed Golf 12 Junior Golf 13 No WGA Day 13 16 Green Coat Men’s Invitational 14 No Junior Golf 15 No Men’s Day 19 BWA Mixed Golf 19 Junior Golf 20 WGA Day 20 3 Jills & a Jack 21 WGA 9-Hole Clinic 21 Junior Golf 22 WGA 18-Hole Clinic: Chipping & Pitching 22 Men’s Day 25 29 The First Tee 26 BWA Mixed Golf 26 Junior Golf 27 – 29 Silver Birch Women’s Invitational 28 Junior Golf 29 No Men’s Day AUGUST 2022 2 BWA Mixed Golf 2 Junior Golf 3 WGA 3 The First Tee Jr. League 4 WGA (9) at PBVCC
4 Junior Golf 5 Men’s Day 6 7 Men’s Club Championship 9 BWA Mixed Golf 9 –10 WGA Club Championship 9 Junior Golf 10 WGA Day 11 Romancing the Stone at PBVCC 11 Junior Golf 12 Men’s Day 12 WGA 9-Hole Clinic 14 Couples Competitive Championship 16 BWA Mixed Golf 16 Junior Golf 17 WGA Day 18 WGA 18-Hole Clinic: Bunkers & Putting 19 Men’s Day 20 – 21 Men’s Senior & Super Senior Championship 23 BWA Mixed Golf 23 Junior Golf 24 WGA Day 26 Men’s Day 30 BWA Mixed Golf 31 WGA Day 31 The Good, Bad, & Ugly Club Tournament SEPTEMBER 2022 1 WLCC at Birchwood 2 Men’s Closing Day 4 ACE Hole-in-One Shootout 4 Glow Ball Event 5 Labor Day Event 6 BWA Mixed Golf 7 WGA – Closing Day 11 Couples Golf Competitive Event 13 BWA Closing Day
GOLF COMMITTEE It is that time of year again to begin to look toward another fun Birchwood summer with golf complementing our other activities - Pickleball, bocce, tennis and biking. Our Director of Golf, Cris Cavitt, has been busy putting together the schedule for the Birchwood golf season. You can expect some of the same fun activities we have enjoyed in the past such as the Memorial Day Scramble, the Take a Swing at Cancer event, the Independence Day Scramble and the Labor Day Scramble, to name a few. For those of you hoping to improve your game, Cris has once again arranged to have Dawn Mercer at Birchwood for a Women’s Clinic as well as a “Graduate Clinic” for those golfers who are more experienced. He also is interested in reaching out to the many new Birchwood members by offering a “New Member Clinic” in June. Be on the lookout for more information if you are interested. Last year we introduced the Hole-in-One (HIO) Club and it was a huge success! Those who weren’t lucky enough to score that “Ace” were able to celebrate friends who were successful with a free drink. Every HIO member was invited to participate in the “Ace Shoot-Out” in which prizes were awarded. This is an annual event followed by the Glow Ball. Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 4th and
be sure to sign up to become a member of the HIO Club this season! Again, the Golf Committee is structured so that each member of the Golf Committee has a very specific role he/she fills. Feel free to reach out to any of us with questions, concerns and suggestions. Those members who have volunteered to participate as Golf Committee Members are as follows: Deb Baker – WGA 18 Hole Golf Chair Karen Grisnak - WGA 9 Hole Golf Chair Katie Gauthier – BWA Mixed Golf Steve Henderson - Men's Friday Golf Lois Hogerheide - Special Events Coordinator and Silver Birch Invitational Ken Parrott and Mark Prendeville - Handicap Committee Mark Verlinden - Green Coat Invitational We look forward to seeing those flagsticks on the greens so we can once again join our friends as we experience the beauty and challenge of our three incredible courses! Gail Torreano & Linda Temple Golf Committee Co-Chairs
WOMEN’S 9-HOLE ASSOCATION
WOMEN’S 18-HOLE ASSOCATION
Spring is approaching and a new golf season begins! This year will be especially fun in that the club is celebrating our 50th year! Expect some fun 50th Anniversary games/events starting off with the 9 Holers hosting the Welcome Back Opening Day Lunch. Opening Day is Wednesday, June 1st with a member meeting starting at 9:00am and a 10:00am shotgun start.
It's that time of the year again to start thinking about our upcoming WGA season! As a reminder, Opening Day will be Wednesday, June 1st. We will have our usual business meeting, followed by golf, and luncheon.
We will have 18 league days (weather permitting) with individual and team play. Key Events include: • Clinic for 9 Holers- July 7th • Three Jills & a Jack- July 20th • Silver Birch Ladies Invitational -July 27-29th • Annual Petoskey Bayview Country Club Invitational (at PBVCC) - Aug. 4th • Club Championship - August 10th • Closing Day Meeting and Awards - September 7th We are promoting signing up each week online. You will need to opt out for lunch under the comment section. Don’t forget to download the Birchwood App which will make it super easy! Our 2022 Officers are as follows: Karen Grisnak – Chair grisnak@comcast.net Pat Lobenstein- Secretary pglobenstein@gmail.com Joanne Snyder- Treasurer joannes513@aol.com
This year the Pro Shop has expanded their 18-hole golf clinic offerings. Make sure to mark your calendars for these dates and watch for registration information. Limited slots will be available. • Thursday, June 9, 2022 -- Driving & Fairway Shots • Friday, July 8, 2022 - Up, Down, & Side Hill Shots • Friday, July 22, 2022 - Chipping & Pitching • Thursday, August 18, 2022 - Bunkers & Putting We will also be participating in a couple of events with our golfing neighbors.Again, stay tuned for registration information. • Tri Club event hosted @ Country Club of Boyne on Thursday, June 2, 2022 • Petoskey Bay View Country Club event will be hosted @ Bay View on Tuesday, June 21, 2022 As done in the past, all information regarding the WGA league can be found on the Birchwood website. The site will be updated shortly, so make sure to check it out for all things WGA. The site will include the WGA Calendar, By-laws, Rules, & Regulations, Committee Assignments, and 18-holers' Directory. Looking forward to a great "50th" WGA season!! Deb Baker WGA 18-hole Chair dstoneeka@gmail.com 19
BWA MIXED GOLF Welcome to the 2022 Season of BWA Mixed Golf ‘9 & Dine.’ There will be a 9-hole shotgun start with all foursomes teeing off at 4:00pm. Put your foursomes together (all levels of players are welcome!) and mark your calendars to play golf every Tuesday beginning June 7th through September 13th (weather permitting). Registration can be done online or by calling the Pro Shop (231-526-6245). Each week, the game “event” will be a different format and it is noted on the Golf Calendar posted on the Birchwood website (www.birchwoodcc.com) and in the weekly “Happenings” email. Scorecards, flights and handicaps will be done by the Pro Shop and will be on your carts when you arrive. At approximately 6:00pm, golfers will return to the Clubhouse for cocktails (at their own expense). Please turn in your scorecards to either Gary Gauthier or Dave Donovan. A $5.00 entry fee per couple is to accompany the scorecard. Entry fee can also be given to either Katie Gauthier or Connie Donovan. Golfers will enjoy a special dinner each week and the cost will be $25.00 ++ per person. The winning teams will be announced and monetary prizes will be awarded. PLEASE NOTE: *All female golf participants must be a dues-paying member of BWA (or a guest). * Golfers’ family members or guests are welcome and encouraged to partici-
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pate. A reduced green fee for guests will apply. * Guests and Social Members will be permitted to play two times per season. * Spouses who do not play golf are definitely welcome to join the fun for cocktails and dinner. Please let the Pro Shop know by Monday prior if a spouse/friend is coming to dinner. *. If the golf event is canceled due to inclement weather, dinner will be served at 6:30 PM and all registered participants are still required to attend. *. If you have any questions, please email the BWA Mixed Golf Committee: Katie Gauthier @ mimikate48@mac.com Connie Donovan @ donovanconnie@att.net Gary Gauthier @ gwmg48@gmail.com Dave Donovan @ daviddonovan1110@gmail.com
2022 BWA Golf Schedule
Date June 7 June 14 June 21 June 28
Format Opening Day Scramble 2 Net Best Balls of Four* Shamble Mystery Partners Odd Even Scramble July 5 Shamble July 12 1 Net Best Ball, 1 Gross Best Ball * (Can’t use the same ball)
July 19 “Mens & Ladies”*
(1 low net Men, 1 low net Ladies)
Date July 26 Aug. 2 Aug. 16 Aug. 23 Aug. 30 Sept. 6
Format Scramble Post Office Step - Aside Scramble 2 Net Best Balls of Four* Scarmble “She” Shamble (pick best of ladies drives)
Sept. 13 Closing Day Scramble * Indicates postable scores for these games.
2022 Wine Dinners Thursday, June 23rd Thursday, August 4th
Thursday, July 7th Thursday, September 22nd
$120.00++ Per Person Registration for Wine Dinners opens on Monday, May 2nd, 2022. You will be able to make reservations for individual dates on the Club's website, www.birchwoodcc.com, or by calling our receptionist at (231)526-2166. The cancellation policy remains as last year – reservations must be canceled no later than 14 days prior to each wine dinner. Cancellations within 14 days of the event will result in a charge of 50% of the event fee per reservation. Please refer to page 7 for a full explanation of the 14-Day Cancellation Policy. Wine Dinner events will begin at 6:00pm sharp. Each of the Wine Dinners will feature specialty wines that go with each diner theme. We will continue our policy to cap attendance at 40 to ensure comfortable seating and full enjoyment by all. The first 40 reservations will be ensured attendance; names above 40 will be maintained on a waiting list in the event of cancellations.
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SAVE THESE DATES
MAY 2022 1 Golf Course Opens *Weather Permitting 4 Game Night 8 Mothers Day Brunch 10 BWA Book Club 16 Pickleball Programming Begins 18 Game Night 23 Board of Trustees Meeting 24 Breakfast & Lunch Begin 24 Yoga Begins 27 Pool Opens *Weather Permitting 28 Spring Membership Meeting 28 Spring Mingle 30 Memorial Day Golf Event 31 Pride of Birchwood Day JUNE 2022 1 Women’s Golf Association (WGA) Opening Day 2 BWA Stretch & Flexibility Begins 3 Meet the Racquet Pros’ Mixer 4 BWA Progressive Dinner 6 Tennis Programming Begins 7 BWA Bug Day 8 BWA Mixed Golf Opening Day 9 BWA Welcome Back Luncheon 14 Racquets TASAC Event 14 BWA Book Club 16 Christ Child Lunch 16 Lecture Series - History of Birchwood Farms 17 Club TASAC Cancer Event w/ Dinner 21 Welcome Back Sunset Toast 23 Wine Dinner 26 Bocce League Begins 27 Board of Trustees Meeting 30 Music on the Green - Petoskey Steel Drum Band 22
JULY 2022 2 Independence Day Golf Scramble 3 Family Fun Day / Fishing Derby 7 Wine Dinner* 10 Kid’s 50th Celebration 13-16 Green Coat Men’s Golf Invitational 20 Music on the Green - Crosscut Kings 21 Lecture Series - Kieren Fleming, History of Vermilion Point in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula 25 Board of Trustees Meeting 27-29 Silver Birch Women’s Golf Invitational AUGUST 2022 4 Wine Dinner 9 BWA Book Club 10 Lecture Series - Jennifer McKay, Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council 13 Birchwood Farms 50th Anniversary Party 17 Music on the Green - Craig Cottrill 18 BOT Ballot Approval Meeting 20-21 Racquets Invitational Event 29 Board of Trustees Meeting 31 Good, Bad, Ugly Golf Event SEPTEMBER 2022 4 Glow Ball & ACE Shootout Golf Events 5 Labor Day Golf Event 7 WGA Golf Closing Day 8 Christ Child Lunch 10 Last day of Breakfast/Lunch service 13 BWA Book Club 13 BWA Mixed Golf Closing Day 14 Lecture Series - Steve Libert - ‘Le Griffon” lost ship 15 BWA Fall Lunch 19 Board of Trustees Meeting 22 Wine Dinner 24 Fall Membership Meeting 24 Harvest Dinner 25 BOT Organizational Meeting 30 BOT Planning Meeting 30 Weekend Dining Begins 30 Pool Closes for Season *Dates Subject to Change
Pride of Birchwood Day Tuesday, May 31st 9:00am - 12:00pm Wednesday, April 20th Wednesday, May 4th Wednesday, May 18th
In an effort to make Birchwood more appealing to members and guests we are hosting a Pride of Birchwood Day on Thursday, June 3rd. Together we can have an impact on making Birchwood a more attractive community.
5:30pm Cocktails by Subscription 5:45pm Dinner Gaming start after dinner
We are encouraging members to take this opportunity to clean up their home sites and vacant lots of fallen trees, branches and brush. We are also in need of volunteers to clean up some of the common areas of Birchwood.
$23.00 ++ Per Person
Volunteers who wish to help clean up Birchwood common property will meet outside at the front of the Clubhouse at 9:00 a.m. on June 3rd and we will assign everyone a work area.
Euchre, Bridge, Tripoli, Poker
All Board Games Welcome! Reservations required by noon the day prior to game night. Please call 231-526-2166 to sign your team up.
Lunch will be provided to volunteers at the Club at noon.
Please watch for more details regarding this event!!
Need Office Space? We may have just what you are looking for! Office space is now available for rent at23the Holiday Vacation Rental/Birchwood Realty Building at the M-119 (South Lake Shore Drive Entrance) to Birchwood Farms Golf and Country Club. Furnished offices, shared conference room, and parking. Utilities included. Seasonal and annual leases available.
For information contact Jared Hammond at 231-242-0730 or email Birchwood@HolidayVacationRental.com 23
NATURE’S NOTEBOOK
Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
These cute lined squirrels live in their underground burrows. The hiding burrow is a short one while their nesting burrow is much larger. During hibernation the burrow is 20 to 40" deep so they are below the frost line with a large nest for warmth and a plugged entrance. Size: four to six inches long and their back has 13 stripes with alternating brown and white colors. Habitat: Golf Courses, cemeteries, parks, roadsides, and airport lands. They prefer short grass and weedy areas as show in the photo. Breeding takes place in April and babies are born 28 days later and leave the nest after 1 month. Diet: grasses, weeds, seeds, grasshoppers, earthworms, beetles, and ants. Submitted by Maryle Barbe
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1171 W Conway Road Harbor Springs, MI 49740 231 487-6163 www.timbondypt.com
Our physical and occupational therapists specialize in orthopedic manual therapy, spinal care for acute neck, low back, and joint pain, hand therapy, rehabilitation for post-surgical conditions, generalized weakness and balance issues. We also offer in-home care when needed. Free screenings available. ● Serving Birchwood Members Since 1985 ● 25
Bring your family and friends and join us on the “green” around the Clubhouse! Limited deck seating will be available – please plan to bring blankets and lawn chairs. 6:00pm
Thursday, June 30th Petoskey Steel Drum Band Wednesday, July 20th Crosscut Kings Wednesday, August 17th Craig Cottrill
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SECURITY & EMS I’m sure we all want winter to stay away and begin the warm up here in Birchwood. Regardless of the weather, all of us at the Birchwood Security & EMS Team hope your upcoming 2022 season is a safe and enjoyable one.We have had a busy off season in Security & EMS, not only responding to emergencies and incidents, but also preparing for the 2022 summer season to begin. As we start warming up here at Birchwood, I would like to remind everyone to take your time when driving through the property and maintain the speed limit and obey stop signs and traffic laws. Each year we have more and more people walking the roads with their children and pets, and riding their bicycles. We also have a very active animal population moving quickly from one part of Birchwood to another. Architectural Control & Security Committee (AC&SC) The AC&SC would like to remind everyone that the Rules & Regulations at Birchwood are in place to ensure the safety and security of all Birchwood members and to allow for the enjoyment of Birchwood and its amenities. Please take the time to review your Rules & Regulations at least annually and whenever there are changes made. The security team will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have regarding the current Rules & Regulations.
There are a couple of topics from the Rules & Regulations I would like to highlight: If you are remodeling or altering the exterior of your home, please read and follow the sections pertaining to your project type. Materials and colors must have AC&SC approval before changing them. Landscaping more than 10 feet away from the home must have a plan and AC&SC approval. Cutting and trimming of trees more than 4 inches in diameter require AC&SC approval as well. The best policy to follow is to contact me if you have concerns, and we can discuss what is needed for each project. Animals must be leashed and under the control of their owners at all times. Article II, page 18, item #7 for the rules governing animals in Birchwood. Also, please remember that Emmet County Leash Laws also apply in Birchwood. It will make the projects go smoother and easier for all involved by being knowledgeable about and following the processes set forth in the Rules & Regulations. We hope everyone enjoys the 2022 season and all that Birchwood has to offer! Derek Williams, Chief of Security/EMS/AC&SC (231)526-2166 Ext. 549 derek@birchwoodcc.com
Sunday, July 10th Party at the Pool 1:00pm-3:00pm (Games, Hotdogs & Birthday Cake) Family Golf Event starting at 4:00pm Pizza & Pasta Buffet in the Main Dining Room 5:00pm-8:00pm Scavenger Hunt 8:00pm-9:30pm Movie Under the Stars beginning at 9:30pm Featuring: Pixar Shorts & 1972 Academy Award Winner “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” Free Popcorn Movie Snacks Available at the Three-Way Featuring Sweet Spinners Cotton Candy
Check the Birchwood Happenings for more information! 27
Independence Day Family Fun Sunday, July 3rd Fishing Derby 9:00am - 11:00am Bounce Houses 12:00pm - 8:00pm Games at the Pool Cookout 5:00pm - 8:00pm Fireworks at Dusk
Buyin’ or Sellin’ - Call Sue Ellen
Your Birchwood Neighbor
Northern Michigan Construction “Your Local Builder” Custom Quality Homes Architectural Services
(231) 526-9419 (231) 838-4381
Sue ellen StuitS Realtor
®
530.307.8417 CELL SueEllen.Stuits@CBGreatLakes.com www.SueEllen-Stuits.CBGreatLakes.Com
172 East Main Street I Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Mother’s Day BRUNCH BUFFET
Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the summer season 10:00am to 11:00am
In the Lower Level of the Birchwood Clubhouse Begins Tuesday, May 24th Slow flow is a class designed to increase flexibility, improve balance and posture, build core strength and relieve stress through various poses and breathing techniques. Appropriate for all levels! $12.00 Per Person/Per Class Must be 18 years of age. Please bring your own mat. Guests are welcome on a limited basis. To signup contact Nancy directly at 313-300-9017 or nancy_mcenroe@yahoo.com
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Sunday, May 8th 10:00am -1:00pm $37.00++ Per Adult $17.00++ For Children 5-12 Children 5 and Under Are free Reservations required, call 231-526-2166 or make your reservation online at www.birchwoodcc.com Check the Birchwood Happenings for more information!
BWA BUZZ If you know of anyone that would like to join the BWA, applications are available at the Clubhouse or on our website at www.birchwoodcc.com. You may also contact Laurie Glissman, Membership Chair at lglissman@aol.com.
BWA PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Claire Forney
2022 BWA President
Before too long, Spring will return and we will find ourselves outside enjoying the beauty of the season. Our activities will once again take place with the Club becoming a bustling place both inside and outside. Watch for emails about upcoming BWA events, for which many of our members have been busy making plans. I want to thank them for their hard work and also those members who continue to chair existing interest groups, many of which continued throughout the colder months. I also want to thank my Board members for their efforts and support.
Our Changing of the Guard Luncheon on January 27th, chaired by Nancy Clark and myself, was well-attended despite blizzard conditions. Our new BWA Board was introduced and Nancy Clark, as outgoing President, received a well-deserved gift along with our hard-working Staff members Emma Aown, Naomi Damoose, and Sara Tye who are always available and willing to support our BWA. Interesting speakers from Christ Child Society, Little Traverse Bay Humane Society, and Manna Food Project explained various volunteering opportunities to pursue. The BWA Snowshoe Event, chaired by Joan Pennell, was great fun with nearly 35 people snowshoeing on the golf course and with 43 attending a delicious chili dinner afterwards. Unfortunately, our annual Pond Hill Farms Night chaired by Joan Pennell held during our Club’s closure, was cancelled because of staff shortages. As Spring ends and Summer begins, we can look forward to the Saturday, June 4th Progressive Dinner, helping at B.U.G. Day (Bottoms Up Gardening) on Tuesday, June 7th (Rain date - June 10th), and attending the BWA Welcome Back Luncheon on Thursday, June 9th. I look forward to seeing many of you at these fun events. Claire Forney 2022 BWA President
Thursday, January 27 Saturday, February 5 Thursday, March 17 Saturday, June 4 Tuesday June 7 (Rain date – June 10) Thursday, June 9 Saturday, June 25 Thursday, July 14 Thursday, September 15 Saturday, October 22 Saturday, Novmeber 5 Wednesday, December 7 Wednesday, December 14
Changing of the Guard Luncheon – 10:45am Annual Snowshoe Event with Dinner – 4:30pm Birchwood Night at Pond Hill Farm – Cancelled Progressive Dinner – 6:00pm B.U.G. Day (Bottoms Up Gardening) Welcome Back Spring Luncheon – 10:45am New BWA Member Reception – 5:00 – 6:30pm Green Coat Outing Tour of Bay View - 10:00am Fall Luncheon – 10:45am Fall Event – Trivia Night – 6:00pm Fall Progressive Dinner – 6:00pm Christmas Cocktail Party – 6:00pm Christmas Cookie Exchange 29
BIRCHWOOD WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION
BWA Welcome Back Luncheon Thursday, June 9,2022
BWA Book Club Tuesday, April 12th
Meet at Birchwood at 11:30a.m. to have lunch and discuss All the Children Are Home by Patry Fancis
Tuesday, May 10th
Meet at Birchwood at 11:30a.m. to have lunch and discuss Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy
Tuesday, June 14th
Meet at Birchwood at 11:30a.m. to have lunch and discuss All the Little Live Things by Wallace Stegner
Tuesday, July 12th
Meet at Birchwood at 11:30a.m. to have lunch and discuss Smile: The Story of a Face by Sarah Ruhl
Contact Claire Forney at 231-526-3919 or peforney@gmail.com Books are discounted 15% at Between the Covers in Harbor Springs 30
~ GUEST SPEAKERS ~ BWA Members Cynthia Apostolakis, Sue Conley and Claire Forney 10:45am Registration 11:15am Business Meeting Luncheon to Follow Reservations required. Call the clubhouse at 231-526-2166 or make your reservation online at www.birchwoodcc.com Chaired by Sue Conley and Patty Whitehouse
New BWA Member Reception Saturday, June 25th 5:00pm - 6:30pm Invitations will be sent out in May. Chaired by Laurie Glissman
BWA Mahjongg at the Club
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:00pm in the Club Please contact Nancy Sarowski at nsarowski@gmail.com or Gail Kozlowski at rgkoz@charter.net for further information or to sign up for a teaching lesson. All Birchwood women welcome.
BWA Outing During Green Coat Thursday, July 14th 10:00 am 11:45am
Walking Tour of Bay View (Limit 30) Lunch at Stafford’s Bay View Inn afterwards (Limit 60)
More information to follow. Chaired by Renee McDuffee
Stretch & Flexibility Beginning June 2nd at 9:00am in the lower level of the Clubhouse Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday through late October For more information, contact Louette Lutjens at louettelut@gmail.com
Sip ‘n Stitch Contact Christine MacKenzie at 248-312-8185 or camackenzie1@gmail.com Mondays 1:00-4:00pm Birchwood needlework enthusiasts meet at member’s homes for a time of friendship & creativity. In consideration for everyone's safety and health, please do NOT plan on attending if you have not been vaccinated and the 2 week immunization period has not passed since your second shot. Also, Pam is limiting the number of attendees for the safety and comfort of everyone, so please contact her early if you wish to attend!
BWA Progressive Dinner The next Progressive Dinner will be held Saturday, June 4th at 6:00pm. We are looking forward to this Progressive Dinner and need homeowners to volunteer to host certain courses throughout the evening! Space is limited to 40 people so please inquire early if you wish to make a reservation or volunteer to host a portion of the dinner. For more information, please contact: Fran Borchers (231)242-4340 frances1borchers@yahoo.com Ronnie Higgs (231)526-0112 ronnie1@charter.net Kathy Thompson (231)526-0547 landk@charter.net
BWA B.U.G. Day (Bottoms Up Gardening)
Tuesday, June 7th Rain Day Friday, June 10th Sign-up Contact: Joanne Murphy, email jojomurphy@sbcglobal.net or call 231-242-4386. Please bring gloves, trowel and kneeling pad. Your reward: Lunch at the Clubhouse! Also, the gratitude of the BWA and the enjoyment of beautiful plantings throughout Birchwood all summer long!
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Business Directory ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FAH, Inc. was founded in 1986 by Frederick A. Hackl, AIA, NCARB, to provide residential and commercial architectural, interior design services to private homeowners, business and industry. 231-348-8624 - f_hackl@yahoo.com
ATTORNEYS James T. Ramer, Attorney Proud To Have Served Birchwood Since 1978 Corporate Law and Planning Ramer, Moore, Schmoll & Martin 231-526-6214 • www.rmsmlaw.net
BUILDERS/CONTRACTORS Adelaine Construction, Inc. CAPS, CGP Award winning, providing excellence in building and remodeling for over 30 years. Custom - Luxury - Remodel - Log 8555 Commerce Court, Harbor Springs 231-439-0027 www.adelaineconstruction.com Northern Michigan Construction Custom Quality Homes Architectural Services “Your Local Builder” 231-526-9419 or 231-838-4381
HOME HEALTH CARE Angel Heart Home Care Let our professional staff provide care for your loved one in the comfort of their own home. Call day or night 231-347-4800. www.angelhearthomecare.com
OUTFITTERS The Outfitter of Harbor Springs Outfitting your adventures since 1971. Clothing, shoes, and outdoor gear for all seasons in Northern Michigan. 153 E. Main Street, Harbor Springs (231) 526-2621 www.outfitterharborsprings.com
PLUMBING/HEATING/ AIR-CONDITIONING Ballard’s Your comfort has been our business for over sixty years - Ballard’s Plumbing & Heating, 2111 E Mitchell Rd., Petoskey, MI 24 Hour Emergency Service - 231-753-2110 www.ballards-ph.com MacGregor Plumbing & Heating Air Conditioning & Geothermal The One You Can Recommend Since 1962 24 Hour Emergency Service 231-526-9633 • MacGregorPlumbing.com
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Bay Area Clean Care specializes in Fine Area Rug Cleaning, Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning & Duct Cleaning. Restoration Services Include Water, Mold & Fire Clean-up. Est. 1981 Petoskey 231-347-7707 or 888-347-7707 www.bayareacleancare.com
PEST CONTROL Abent Pest Control North Serving Birchwood Since 1984 231-526-2847 – Fax 231-348-7081 Email: abentpest@sbcglobal.net
HARDWARE
RENTALS
Meyer Ace Hardware 1030 State Road, Fairview Square More than just a full line hardware and lawn & garden store. We also carry premium products from Weber,Yeti, Oakley, Green Egg, Scotts, Traeger and Stihl. 231-526-6288 • www.acehardware.com
Holiday Vacation Rentals Cottage, condo, and fine home vacation rentals in Northern Michigan. Rentals ideal for families, reunions, girlfriend’s getaways, golf and beachfront vacations. On-Site Rentals Office 231-242-0730 info@holidayvacationrental.com
Tell the members of Birchwood about your business and services.
REAL ESTATE Birchwood Realty On-Site Sales Office 231-242-1818 info@birchwoodrealty.com Carrie Frisbie In consult w/predecessor, Sue Schwaderer Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Cell: 231-268-9367 Carrie@RealEstateInHarborSprings.com Jill Kimble, Realtor Serving Birchwood Buyers and Sellers since 2008 Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors 172 E. Main, Harbor Springs, MI 49740 231-313-2849 jill.kimble@cbgreatlakes.com Joy Labadie, MBA Realtor Berkshire Hathaway Northern Michigan 102 E Main Street, Harbor Springs Cell: 231-215-7955 Office: 231-526-9800 Email: joylabadie@bhhsmi.com Lee Ford Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realty Licensed Resort & Second Home Specialist. 172 East Main Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740 248-229-6490 (cell) email: Lee.Ford@cbgreatlakes.com www.LeeFordRealEstate.com Sally Brumleve, MBA, Associate Broker/Realtor® Real Estate Sales and Owner Vacation Rental Aquisitions, Birchwood Realty/Holiday Vacation Rentals. 6789 S. Lake Shore Drive, Harbor Springs 231-753-9316 • sally@birchwoodrealty.com Sandra Gay, Realtor Berkshire Hathaway Specializing in Birchwood Properties 102 E. Main Street, Harbor Springs 231-526-9800 E-mail: sandragay@charter.net www.bhhsmi.com Sue Ellen Stuits/Birchwood Resident Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realty 172 E Main Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740 530-307-8417 cell sueellen.stuits@cbgreatlakes.com
RENTALS
Advertise in Birchwood Country Life for as low as $79.00 per issue! Contact Emma Aown for details. 231-526-2166 ext. 538 • emma@birchwoodcc.com
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B IRCHWOOD F ARMS G O L F & C O U NT RY C L U B 6 0 0 B I R C H WO O D D R I V E H A R B O R S P R I N G S , M I 4 9 74 0
NEW
Harbor Springs
SOLD
$1,800,000
Wonderful 3BR/2.5BA Fred Ball design set on a private cul-de-sac on the bluff. Luxury finishes and features. (MLS# 467527)
ACTIVE
Cross Village
Birchwood
ACTIVE
$765,000
Classy 3BR/3.5BA home with amazing countryside views of Birchwood ponds and Lake Michigan. (MLS# 467038)
SOLD
$598,000
An 11 unit luxury motel partially constructed. Offered as-is for buyer to finish to their liking. (MLS# 467048)
Birchwood
Waterfront
$6,449,900
Spectacular 5BR/6BA home on Little Traverse Bay. Timeless, maintained custom finishes inside & out. (MLS# 463525)
ACTIVE
$600,000
Move-in-ready 4BR/2.5 BA home on the golf course. Rustic design elements and high-end features. (MLS# 467206)
Water View
$67,000
Amazing 1 acre building site on M-119 Tunnel of Trees including trimming rights and building plans! (MLS# 465225)