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Open the Door to 2024!
NOTE FROM THE
publisher T
hank you for holding this magazine in your hands. 2024 celebrates our 12th year bringing our community together in Baylife Magazine by meeting new people, telling their stories, and taking photos for our On the Town section. We get to create every issue as our real day job. And we couldn’t do any of it without our awesome advertisers’ support. Traverse City is such a special place. Chances are you’ll already know the familiar smiling faces in the pages ahead. They’re your family, friends, and neighbors. It’s our secret ingredient. It makes our magazine so much fun to produce and hopefully for you to read. Smiles speak louder than words. So, I hope all the smiling faces make you smile too. The faces include the Sexton family, Dave, Deb, Tyler, and Hannah, who are launching the new Pickle U, a sprawling indoor pickleball facility in Acme. It’s a complete overhaul of the old Kmart building, two years in the making. It’s pickleball heaven, and there’s no doubt it’ll be a huge success. Then, plan to have coffee soon at Factory Man Roasting House on Boon St., owned by Ryan Wells and his lovely mom, June. We sat and chatted away over coffee for two hours like old friends. “This is exactly what we want: community and friendship that has great coffee too. Coffee for the working man that honors my husband’s memory, and coffee for the most refined taste,” said June. Their family bought the building way back in the ’80s. They didn’t just move into a building that used to be coffee shop! They’ve owned it the whole time. Next door is their Center City Kitchen business too. Next up, if you believe everything happens for a reason, maybe this is serendipitous? I got a text from an old friend: “I’m doing a little marketing work for a great girl who owns a local company.” As it turns out, it’s been on our radar in editorial meetings. Courtney was a joy to meet and introduced us to her kombucha empire. I’d never tasted it, but she has it “on tap” and poured me a sample: “It’s awesome for Dry January.” I confess, I’ve failed miserably ever since it’s been
4 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
a thing, but Courtney generously gave me a case of her finest bottles of Cultured Kombucha as a parting gift! Was this meant to be? A new me, Dry January with kombucha in my wine glass instead? I solemnly swear, I will try hard. Apparently kombucha is a vital part to good health, but so is a full-bodied Italian red wine, right? For the record, my husband Tom won’t bet on me! Wish me luck!
Teri Gorsline, Publisher BayLife Magazine
SUPERMARKET NEWS Independent Superstars Award
2023 Winner
Honored for independent grocer excellence. JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
5
contents L I V I N G T H E D R E A M I N T R AV E R S E C I T Y JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024
departments
features 34
THE CABIN IN THE WOODS, REIMAGINED Hiding deep in the woods lies a cabin unlike any other. Local building company Royal Stag Construction unveils their cabin of the future.
TWO TWISTED TREES PHOTOGRAPHY
50
MAKING A SCENE The story behind the new vibrant murals that grace the outside of the Old Town Playhouse building at Cass and 8th St.
10
ON THE TOWN
18
MOVER & SHAKER Mayor Amy Shamroe
20
LOCAL SCOOP
22
LOCAL DISH
24
WICKED GOOD EATS Oaky’s Tavern
26
BEHIND THE DISH Black Star Farms
28
STYLE IN THE CITY
30
TRENDING NOW Indoor Pickleball
32
HOME GROWN Cultured Kombucha Co.
44
A VIEW FROM ABOVE by Michigan Sky Media
46
HOME STYLE
48
PROJECT HOME
62
THEN & NOW
64
NORTHERN ENCOUNTERS by Todd and Brad Reed Photography
ABOUT THE COVER
Point Betsie Lighthouse in a frozen tundra.
by Tyler Leipprandt, Michigan Sky Media “The vibrant colors radiate warmth through the stark tunnel of ice. The lighthouse has been operating since 1858 safely guiding mariners on Lake Michigan. It’s a favorite of every local photographer in all seasons.”
6 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
michiganskymedia.com
BUILDING CUSTOM DREAM HOMES
JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
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BayLife Magazine is an award winning and family owned Traverse City based publication with over 39 years’ experience in the industry. We are proud to represent the people of our community. PUBLISHERS Teri and Tom Gorsline EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tom Gorsline editor@baylifenorth.com COPY EDITOR
Hannah Ryder CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rachelle Robinson, Todd and Brad Reed Courtney Lorenz, Amy Shamroe CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tom Gorsline, Todd and Brad Reed Photography Teaghan Gorsline, Two Twisted Tree Photography Tyler Leipprandt - Michigan Sky Media, Harpe Star/Kristen Stewart
You can trust and depend on the 6th generation co-owners, Christy Jonkhoff-Hater and Lindsey (Jonkhoff) Rogers and their dedicated staff to always be there with excellence in funeral service. Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home & Cremation Services
305 Sixth Street, Traverse City 231.947.6347 reynolds-jonkhoff.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Bethany Gulde ADVERTISING SALES Teri Gorsline teri@baylifenorth.com BAY BREEZE MEDIA LLC 10966 S West Bay Shore Drive Traverse City, MI 49684 231-715-6088 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR AND INQUIRIES editor@baylifenorth.com @BayLifeMagazine @BayLifeMagazine
FOGGY WINDOWS? Fix the Glass, Not the Entire Window with Low Cost Restoration Repair or Glass Replacement!
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BAYLIFE Magazine Number 71 is an ‘Award Winning’ bi-monthly publication of BAY BREEZE Media, LLC. Advertising Rates available at baylifenorth.com or calling 231-715-6088. BAYLIFE Magazine is a controlled subscription, direct mailed to 8000 affluent homes located on Old Mission Peninsula, Wayne Hill, Slabtown, Traverse City, Incochee and distributed to locations throughout the Grand Traverse Bay and Northern Michigan. BAYLIFE Magazine is owned exclusively by BAY BREEZE Media, LLC. 2024. All content of this publication is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part for any reason without prior approval of the publisher. BAYLIFE Magazine is family owned and is a registered trademark of BAY BREEZE MEDIA, LLC.
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JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
9
ON THE
TOWN
Page Sponsored by
A Journey Through Narnia
41st Annual Gladhander 2023 Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools Saturday, October 28, 2023
Top Row - L-R B.J. Bric k, Charlie Socks, Justin and Jared Jorkasky, Adam Brown, Patrick Lav is. Bottom Row - L-R Kec ia Brick, Sarah Socks, Sarah Jork asky, Shannon Griffis
Scarlett Peidmont, Jaclyn Clever, Emily Davis, Tracy Gibbons
Alexander and Sarah Mollinari
Ted Wickman, Matt Ness
Shane Miller, Laura Kelsey, Jim and Wendy Harvey
Jordan and JulieMAGAZINE Kicherman, John and Kindra Allinder 10 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE
Tracy Gibbons, Marina Call, Teri Gorsline
Lisa Trombley and Ben Lott
Melanie and Scott Porter
Andrew and Barb Benson
Mark and Cecilia Irwin
We would like to thank Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools for their abundance of love and community. Enriching the lives of our children to develop spiritually and academically to learn, serve, lead and succeed. We Love our GTACS family.
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ON THE
TOWN
The Admiral’s Ball
Traverse Area Community Sailing (TACS) Traverse City Country Club Saturday, November 11, 2023
l
chate Brooke and John Dykhuis, Kimberly Binds
Tom Gorsline, Bradley Goodwin
George Petricz, Barb LaRue, Jayne Mohr and Cal Karr
Chad MAGAZINE Coberly, Than Dykstra, Nate Reynolds, Ben Ferris 12 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE
Kurt and Sally Rivard
Kristen White, Matthew Pierce
Meghan Dykstra, Chad and Michelle Coberly
Kathleen and Tom Roop, Chris Branson
Reconnect with old friends. And meet some new ones too! { Lifetime friendships made here. }
Juliette Goodwin, Teaghan Gorsline
Kyle Hartly, Tom Roop
Matt Anderson, Julie Hearn, Laurie Wildman
GOLF . SWIM . GATHER . DINE
Enjoy everything the CLUB has to offer in a beautiful, private escape. Golf and Social Memberships Linda Bush, Donna Folgarelli, Teri Gorsline
Looking for a great way to connect with other families and professionals? We offer individual and family memberships. Ask about our amenities and additional benefits.
ess Stuf fin not d! include
Contact our Membership Director Susan McElduff for information.
susanl@tcgcc.com
231.947.0985
TCGCC.COM Kitty Kringren, Lisa Robitshek
JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
13
ON THE
TOWN
Impact100 Charity Event
West Shore Bank Penthouse Space Wednesday, December 28, 2023 Jan Tuohy, Sam Ch arnes, Laurene Garchow, Kathy Sc hroeter
Sid Van Slyke, Laurie Fisher
Jill McIntosh, Susan Lockwood, Betsy Wallbrige
Mia Munroe, Susan Hunt Sam Charnes, Lindsey Raymond
Katie Jones
Lisa Trombley, Bob Ackerman
April Missias, Lindsey Raymond, Diane Arnold
14 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
Julie Millen, Kathy Schroeter, Martha Videan, Jenny Hanrahan
Jarja Caughran, Lori Van Antwerp
Deane Western, Dave Durbin
Liz Vershure, Ginger Ovens
Lindsey Raymond takes the stage as the new president of Impact100.
OUR PASSION IS HELPING YOU PURSUE YOURS
Maddy Ambrose, Financial Advisor | (231) 845-1515 | madelyn.ambrose@ceterais.com Deane Western, Financial Advisor | (231) 346-1515 | deane.western@ceterais.com
400 E. Eighth Street, Traverse City, MI 49686 | westshorebank.com Securities and insurance products are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFG STC Insurance Agency LLC), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisors LLC. Cetera is not affiliated with the financial institution where investment services are offered. Not FDIC/NCUSIF insured • May lose value Not financial institution guaranteed • Not a deposit JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE 15 Not insured by any federal government agency.
ON THE
TOWN
Zonta Festival of Trees Party
Golden-Fowler Home Furnishings Friday, November 10, 2023
Brent and Shannon Boncher
Denine Dingeman, Lisa Rettke, Mary Bales, Colleen Fowler
The Fowler family
Mike Fox with grandaughter, Teaghan Gorsline
Derek Woodruff and Brandon Atkins, Peg Jonkhoff, Lisa Brady
Mike Mahn taking the stage!
Denine Dingeman, Lisa Brady
Melissa Sole, Tracey Welch
The ladies of NoMi Collective
Golden Fowler Furnishings hosts Amanda and Mike Mahn
Dayna Ryan, Rhonda Estes, Holly Ryan
Joe Coleman
16 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
Photo by Jim Sorbie
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17
MOVER & SHAKER Amy Shamroe
MEE T
Amy Shamroe
Our New Mayor of Traverse City
Boards – City Commission, Friends of the Library, AAUW of Traverse City Board Are there any words of wisdom you live by? My dad always says to me when I am embarking on something, “Be good. Be smart.” As a leader in any role I always gather facts and look to experts to find the best viable solution to make things better. As the new Mayor of Traverse City, what exactly does the job title entail? At its most basic the Mayor acts as Chair of the City Commission and can sign proclamations. We are a strong City Manager government in Traverse City, not a strong mayor (as are most cities in Michigan). In the community though, being Mayor also means showing up for our community at events and major discussions that are important to the city and the region. To me, it also means helping to communicate clearly to citizens what we are working on and why we take the actions we do. Being straightforward and clear helps avoid misunderstandings and demystifies the monolith government can seem like to a lot of people. What goals are you most passionate about for 2024? The new commission will establish goals together in the coming weeks, but I am excited about a lot of initiatives already in the works. Both staff and private partners are working on solid, actionable solutions to help with the issue of housing and homelessness. In the coming months we will also see more details of the plans to restore the Boardman/Ottaway that have been in the works for a couple years now. Making Traverse City a strong, healthy place is always a great goal. As a TC native, what is the biggest growth change you secretly struggle with? As someone born and raised in the area, I struggled with the idealization of “small town” Traverse City when I was a kid versus the thriving city we have today. Things do not look the same today, so it can be easy to say change is bad. Back then Traverse City was probably more like a Norman Rockwell 18 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
image, but below the surface it was slowly dying. I remember the vacant stores on Front Street and the exodus of so many businesses outside the city. When the “new mall” opened, half my elementary school class was out “sick” checking it out. Nostalgia is strong though, so it can be good to reflect on how where we are today fits with 2024 versus 1994. Who’s your biggest role model? I wish I could give one simple answer! I think we owe so much to Bryan Crough’s leadership in that vision. As a woman who is serving as Mayor with a female majority City Commission, I will also always be indebted to women who led Traverse City before me and lead today in so many key roles in our community. Tell us something that would surprise us about you. In addition to books, I collect nail polish! All the colors I have might rival some salons. I love it as a way to make a subtle statement or as an accessory to brighten up my day to day.
What is one thing checked off on your bucket list? I went to Portugal last year for a two week vacation! Allowing myself to take some time without work or other commitments at the top of my priority list for that long was a privilege. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to make it happen.
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JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
19
LOCAL SCOOP
Kari Jansen, owner of Poppy and Someday.
Someday Serenity dkids Charlie and Remmy.
gran Denny and Judy Hoxie with their
Winter Survival
It’s winter, so it’s all downhill from here. The snowbirds have scampered south, the winter blues set in, and getting old is a slippery slope. But if you’re age 50+, we received a hot tip: every Thursday afternoon, Mt. Holiday Ski Resort is hosting a Retired Recess. From 12-4 p.m., their snowy hillside will be a fun, safe, and vibrant place to meet, eat, ski, and play. They will offer discounted lift tickets, rentals, and even the tubing run. If you’re dusting off your skis they have certified ski instructors on hand. Inside, the T-Bar will be open for lunch. In the main lounge the cozy fireplace sets the stage, and there are tables and chairs galore for playing cards, games, or just a good visit. They promise to keep you up to date on the Retired Recess Facebook group page, or email Pat Rutt at ruttpa@gmail.com. Time to break out the long underwear!
Mt. Holiday 3100 Holiday Rd, Traverse City Mt-holiday.com
20 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
Inside the building at 445 Front St., a bewitching transformation is underway. It will be named Poppy and Someday and will premiere a one-of-a-kind sacred oasis to teach the power of plants and healing. It’s planned to bloom into fruition soon by owner Kari Jansen, Herbalist, Astrologer, and Ayurvedic Practitioner. It’s an organic evolution to expand upon her Poppy and Someday apothecary skin and body products, built on decades of herbal studies. “Within this growing community, I’m excited to create a wellness experience for people to learn, heal, and get creative.” She’s hoping to offer weekly classes in herbal medicine making, pottery, incense & sage bundles, tea ceremonies, infrared sauna sessions, and massage treatments. Tea will be brewed for anyone to enjoy. Sounds like a tranquil space to find serenity. 445 E Front ST. Traverse City poppyandsomeday.com
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SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE % % 20 OFF 30 OFF SALE SALE % % SALE SALE SALE 40 OFF 50 OFF SALE SALE ANNUAL PROGRESSIVE SALE Mark your calendars!
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JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
21
LOCAL DISH
Coffee Legacy
Factory Man Roasting House pays homage to father and husband Rodney Wells, a hard-working, honest man who was the Director of Engineering for the Chef Pierre/ Sara Lee Foods plant. “He never took a sick day off in over 40 years,” says his wife, June. Along the way he wisely invested in property. In fact, their coffee shop is a building he bought in the ’80s. Today, Ryan Wells and his mom, June, want to invite you to experience a great cup of coffee. “We want to welcome all of our community to a grab-and-go or a customized creation by our barista.” Next door they own a magical kitchen for budding food and pastry entrepreneurs to practice, perfect, and bloom. “It’s a commercial kitchen for people just starting out with Grandma’s spaghetti recipe, or an avid at-home baker; good people who want to contribute to our local community without the risk or cost,” says Ryan. Made in this kitchen are baked goods for sale in the coffee shop. “We wanted to perfect the coffee first, now we are adding breakfast, then lunch.” Yum!
Co-owners Rodney Wells and his mother June.
Factory Man Roasting House Center City Kitchen 700 & 716 Boon Street
Super Market Superstar We are excited to spill the beans…Tom’s has won the Supermarket News Independent Superstar Award! Supermarket News shines a light on those who are going above and beyond as a standout independent grocer. This is nationwide (and a big deal)! Supermarket News is like the Wall Street Journal of grocery stores. Tom’s distributer Spartan Nash nominated them for this award with their story and the changes they’ve made. And they won!
Tom’s Team at Short’s Brewing with President Nancy Sands, and husband Ed.
TC native Nancy Sands took the reins as President of all Tom’s Food Markets in 2020 after her older sister’s sudden passing. Uprooting her normal life in Maryland, she made the move back TC with her husband Ed and her beloved dog Willow in tow. She stepped into her family’s grocery stores with wide-open, fresh eyes, knowing local grocery stores could still be inspired by urban, chic markets in big cities through setting pleasing, attractive, and pleasant goal benchmarks for each location to enhance and enrich the customer experience inside and out. For the last three years, along with steadfast support from Ed, they have worked tirelessly to transform each Tom’s Food Market location and branding, from the music they play, to lighting, flooring, displays, installing upgraded everything, and painting the exteriors. They even partnered with local brewery Shorts and Iron Fish Distillery to create Tom’s VIP bottle brands. And took part in the National Cherry Festival Parade and the Northport Dog Parade! “I can only fully relax three days a year—Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter, because we are closed,” says Nancy. The very last part of her plan is the new Tom’s sign at the West Bay Store. East Bay – West Bay – Interlochen – Fourteenth St. – Northport
tomsfoodmarkets.com 22 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
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JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
23
wicked GOOD EATS Oaky’s Tavern
O A K Y ’ S TAV E R N
The smiling faces of Oaky’s Tavern that welcome you in.
Discover Oaky’s Tavern on US 31 South, your new promised land for winter comfort food and delightful ambiance. Oaky’s is an epic foodie find; upon your entrance, its cleverly disguised as a bustling bar, hence the term “tavern,” is pouring libations to smiling patrons. But don’t be fooled: the marvelous menu boasts generous portions of mouthwatering fare served up with friendly service by people that treat you like family. In a past life, this roadside hidden gem used to be Maddy’s 22. Back in 2020, new owners John and Melissa Ockhert gave the place a makeover and launched Oaky’s Tavern. It was the height of the pandemic with a take-out menu only. Four delicious years in, Oaky’s has perfected rocking tastebuds with their famous in-housed smoked wings, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and brisket. Don’t forget their fresh salads, specialty nachos, bodacious burgers, and the best fish and chips ever. Did we mention delectable flatbreads? Due to high demand to feed more happy customers, all the way in back, they added a chic dining area, complete with a cozy fireplace in the center. The cherry on top? The menu prices are super affordable. Guaranteed you’ll be back for more! Just in—they opened their four-season patio, complete with heaters. 9205 US-31. Grawn 231-276-6244. oakystavern.com
24 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
THE MOON MOHR TEAM
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JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
25
BEHIND Bistro Polaris
IN THE KITCHEN WITH BLACK STAR FARMS
Estate Chef John Korycki
Borlotti Bean & Pasta Soup with Lacinato (Tuscan) Kale and Sausage
Bistro Polaris at Black Star Farms 10844 E Revold Rd, Suttons Bay, MI 49682 blackstarfarms.com/bistro-polaris/
Serves 4
Ingredients 2 oz
extra virgin olive oil for cooking
4 oz
lacinato (Tuscan) kale, leaves removed from stems - both chopped separately
Preparation
In a medium saucepot, sauté chopped lacinato kale stems over high heat in olive oil until golden brown. Brand Identity & Style Guide
Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onions and garlic and cook until golden brown.
4 oz
onion, diced
3 cloves
garlic, minced
2 sprigs
rosemary, leaves chopped
12 each
sage leaves, thinly sliced
1 lb
borlotti / cranberry beans, cooked (or chickpeas or lentils) - recipe below
2 oz
tomato paste
Cook for about 15 minutes, then add the dry pasta. Continue to cook at a low simmer, slowly adding remaining chicken stock until the pasta is tender and the soup has reached desired thickness, about 15 to 20 minutes. The pasta should be tender, not al dente. Add additional stock if necessary.
48 oz
chicken stock or bean cooking liquid or water or a combination
The concept behind this method is to allow the natural starches in the pasta and the beans to cook together, thickening the soup and concentrating the flavors.
4 oz
small short pasta, such as tubetti
Adjust seasoning to your taste with salt.
to taste
sea salt & black pepper
to finish
best quality extra virgin olive oil
Serve immediately with freshly ground pepper and a drizzle of a really good extra virgin olive oil, and chunks of hearty rustic bread – such as ciabatta or baguette.
26 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
Add the chopped kale leaves, rosemary, sage, and the tomato paste, and cook gently for one minute. Do not brown the herbs or kale. Add cooked borlotti beans and ¾ of the chicken stock. Bring to a boil.
Buon Appetito!
What’s for Dinner? Freshly made authentic Italian, pairs well with our wine
One Stop Shop - Dinner & Wine Done! 424 W. Front St. Traverse City, MI (231) 941-7651 @folgarellis
Happy New Year!
CHEERS with Darric from Folgarelli’s
I’d like to start out by thanking all the wonderful people who visited us at Folgarelli’s this past year. We are looking forward to a fantastic year to come and seeing you all soon. Our feature wine kicking of the New Year is the Architect Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley in Sonoma California. Comprised of 80% Cabernet, 7% Petite Verdot, 5% Merlot and 3% Malbec, this wine is a true gem and one of our newest “Folg’s Finds.” Lush flavors of dark berry fruits, cassis, and plum are complimented by heady notes of spice and cocoa. This is an elegant and well-structured wine with a long silky finish. Perfect paired with beef, rack of lamb, cheeses, and dried salami. We look forward to seeing all of you wonderful people soon. Keep sipping. Cheers,
Darric
Folgarelli’s Market & Wine Shop
C C ll a a ss ss iicc.. S S ii m m pp ll ee..
Breakfast, Brunch Breakfast, Brunch & Classics & Lunch Lunch Classics Unquely prepared with with Unquely prepared elegant simplicity. elegant simplicity.
Closed Tuesdays Closed Tuesdays. February Closed Tuesdays. February––April April Weekdays Weekdays8am 8am-3-3pm pm Saturday - Sunday Saturday - Sunday99am am-3 -3pm pm Located LocatedininthetheMercato MercatoininThe TheVillage Village of of The TheGrand GrandTraverse TraverseCommons. Commons. 231.252.4648 231.252.4648 RedSpireBrunchHouse.com RedSpireBrunchHouse.com
JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
27
“Don’t tell anyone, but I’ve got a black belt in shopping.”
SWEATER WEATHER You know what they say, there are no bad weather days, only bad clothes. We shopped local to gather up some neutral staples, to keep you stylish and warm this winter season. Because you can’t be a hot mess if you’re freezing cold, bonus: they are all available online to ship right to your door.
TOASTY
Riverdale $149 Bahles of Sutton’s Bay bahles.net
STYLISH
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COMFY
Warner $342 Ella’s, Traverse City swingbyellas.com
SNUGGLY
La Miel $58 Relish, Traverse City relishtc.com 28 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
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TRENDING
NOW
INDOOR PICKLEBALL
Pickle U
Did you know Traverse City is the birthplace of pickleball in Michigan? Way back in 1985 a group of Grand Traverse Yacht Club members discovered the game being played at the home of a friend on Torch Lake. The rest is history (find more at tcpickle.com). It’s a TC staple played by hundreds of “pickleheads” all over our area, with an average age of 55 years old. In winter the lucky ones head to sunny and warm pickle courts, leaving their poor pickle partners cold and lonely in a bit of a pickle. Pickle U is a brand-new, state of the art, indoor pickleball utopia that awaits. It’s lovingly being brought to town by the Sexton Family. Dave, his wife, son, and daughter-inlaw are all partners. Pickle U is guaranteed will be your new happy place. Dave said he played his first game of pickleball two and a half years ago and immediately went home and told his wife he wanted to bring indoor courts to Grand Traverse County. “So, we would just love for you guys to come and be a part of our community and family.”
The Sexton Family are the proud new owners of Pickle U. Dave, Deb, Hannah and Tyler.
Until now, the only indoor pickleball option where the six dedicated courts at the South YMCA on South Airport Road. But with the grand opening of Pickle U in Acme, it can breathe new life into your winter game, just as Pickle U has transformed the building that was once the old Kmart. Two instructors are already on staff. No membership is required to play at this time, and reservations ahead of time will be made online. They are putting the finishing touches on the website. Pickle U, 6455 US-31, Acme
“We love the fact that pickleball is so multi-generational, anyone can play!”
30 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
Freaky
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HOME GROWN & LOCAL Cultured Kombucha Co.
“...we simply craft a great product with the end consumer’s health as our top priority.” - Courtney Lorenz, Founder
32 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
HOME GROWN &
Local
Cultured Kombucha Co.
3842 Jupiter Cresent Drive, Traverse City, Michigan drinkcultured.com
What exactly is kombucha? Our #1 asked a question that I love to answer! Kombucha is a tea that is fermented for health instead of alcohol, producing probiotics, live cultures, and digestive enzymes. It’s a little bit tart, a little bit sweet, and a little bit bubbly. We often share that 3/4 of our business is education based. It’s amazing how many people have not yet heard of or incorporated kombucha into their daily health! What are its health benefits? Rich in probiotics, it can offer digestive health support by helping balance the gut microbiome. Its wealth of beneficial bacteria, organic acids, and digestive enzymes makes it a popular choice. With so much of our immune system, mental health (serotonin), and hormone support being metabolized in our gut microbiome, it’s imperative to keep fermented foods in our diet. Kombucha is an easy and tasty way to incorporate gut health on a daily basis! You’re the fastest growing kombucha company in the Midwest. Take us back to the beginning. Cultured Kombucha Co. began in 2015. I had no business background, but what I did have was curiosity and will to create a product that would help others lead a healthier lifestyle, one sip at a time. My college studies were in Culinary Arts and Dietetics. I knew that my passion was to help people understand the connection between their food and their health. In May of 2015, I launched Cultured at the Sara Hardy Farmer’s Market with two 5-gallon batches. We sold out in under 20 minutes, so we knew we had a great product and were indelibly supported by the community. Every little batch was handcrafted, hand bottled, and hand labeled in a kitchen that was debatably larger than most home closets. Albeit challenging, those first few years provided incredible, foundational lessons for my career as an entrepreneur. And today? I’m so grateful to share Cultured Kombucha Co. is now available in over 500+ retail locations in Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois. We currently occupy over 7500 square feet of certified organic facility that produces handcrafted kombucha from start to finish. Although we’ve scaled significantly, our “secret sauce” is still the same. All our recipes have stayed consistent, and each bottle is still handcrafted, labeled, and shipped from our facility in Traverse City. What do you think is the secret to your success? We’re in it for authenticity. Not just a trend. Many kombucha companies have a poor base brew that lacks true nutritional benefit and mask it. Cultured Kombucha Co. has grown slow and steady at a marathon pace, not a sprint, to keep our product’s integrity. So many small pieces set us apart, such as our relationship with our organic tea farm in China, our proprietary 7-step brewing process, etc. We really took our time and invested knowledge into all areas of our business, but the truth of the matter is, we simply craft a great product with the end consumer’s health as our top priority. What’s next? Dry January! It’s one of our favorite times of the year at the brewery. It’s an opportunity to refocus priorities and make healthier lifestyle choices, one sip at a time! We have mocktail recipes and health alternatives to keep the cravings at bay all month! Then we’re excited to announce our expansion into two new states in the first few months of 2024 and an exciting brand refresh. Stay tuned!
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MAKING A SCENE Right under your nose, two magical transformations happened at the corner of Cass and 8th St., one below and one above. One shut down the entire corner at a beloved crossroads we had to navigate around every day until unveiled on the grand re-opening was a brand spanking new intersection, complete with underground infrastructure, thanks to the City of TC and the DDA for their visionary use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds that invest in our city’s long-term growth and prosperity. The big reveal above were stunning custom art murals that tell the story of the arts in all its glory. It’s a dazzling array of color and imagination, bringing to life the old church that houses our community stage theater group, the Old Town Playhouse (OTP).
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“Now the outside is as vibrant as the magic that happens inside the building,” boasts Deb Jackson,
OTP’s Executive Director of five years. It’s a showstopper, standing for art and culture, complete with a red traffic light to demand attention! Stop, stare, and be entertained. “Now instead of looking tired and old, we are saying to our community that we’re hip and cool,” laughs Deb. Hip and cool they are indeed. Their Young Company group is growing and splitting at the seams. It’s not just the young; their senior group, aptly named “Aged to Perfection,” is popular too. Young, old, big, small, purple, or pink, it is a happy place on the corner, filled with laughter, friendship, singing, and dancing where dreams begin and bloom for many. And on the stage in the glare of the spotlights, even from the cheap seats, you can buy a ticket to attend a show and witness confidence and acceptance gained one performance at a time.
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It may not be your cup of tea — community theater, that is. You’re not an
aspiring singer, actor, stagehand, or a hog-the-microphone wannabe. And even if you’ve never bought a ticket to experience a show inside (Shame on you!), just by being a local resident in our community you are quietly playing an extra. OTP is proud to be by the community and for the community. You probably have friends, family, and neighbors both on-stage and behind the scenes that help make the magic happen. And just by supporting the local businesses that support the OTP, you are a voice in their chorus line. Did som
eone say
dance?
The volunteer ushers ready to greet and seat.
OTP Executive Director Deb Jackson with husband, Dr. Mark Jackson.
What’s my line?
Deb Jackson and Phil Murphy on the radio.
The stairway to magic. The Aged to Perfection group.
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Then - the members of the First Christian Church.
A Little History… April 1960 – Elnora Milliken gathered Interlochen faculty and 40 local theatre buffs to form the Traverse City Civic Players and staged You Can’t Take It with You at a local school. 1969 – The Players’ home stage moved to the Park Place Dome, home to the Cherry County Playhouse, and broadened its offerings, beginning with Guys and Dolls. Early 1970s – The Players sought a home with a larger facility and found space at the First Christian Church, which was originally built in 1903. 1975 – The Players purchased the church facility and changed the name to Old Town Playhouse. 1978-1997 – The Studio Theatre opened to audiences in the community. A children and teen theatre group was formed. 1998 – Due to fire code restrictions, the theatre was closed and faced more than $350,000 in required improvements. OTP “took the show on the road” by borrowing performance spaces.
iken
il ra M
Elno
1999 – A huge vote of community support and a major capital campaign allowed the aging playhouse to undergo renovations to meet safety codes and make upgrades. 2000 – OTP reopens. 2000-2019 – Balcony renovation and upgraded seats were completed. A community-based Board of Trustees was formed to manage growth and development. The building became energy efficient. 2020 – OTP shuts down during the pandemic. Improvements to building and implemented a new ticket system were made. 2022 – New windows were installed. New branding project, including logo website, and annual report. 2023 – The “At the Corner of Art and Culture” Partnership Grant Mural Project adds locally sourced artwork to empty window spaces.
The sad looking building before its new transformation.
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So, now you know the old dreary brick building was once a church and desperately needed a fun and lively facelift.
“When 8th St was overhauled with the new branding, I started to devise a plan. Our area is so full of the arts, the legacy of Elnora Milliken, the Traverse Symphony Orchestra with music, the National Writers Series with books, and the Crooked Tree Arts Center. I wanted to represent all the areas of arts,” says Deb. Luckily Deb researched and found a grant she could apply for. Her original idea featured full-size actual murals painted by hand on the empty window spaces. But it was strictly limited to only the artists that were able to paint on a large scale hanging off a building high in the air. Then she had a tight deadline to fulfill the grants wishes. There just wasn’t enough time. The local sign company, Image 360, suggested the idea to simply print the art on a large banner. “This was a gift because it opened the project to any artist in town. Big or small.” But what kind of art should they pick? That’s a daunting task. But Deb had been inspired by her travels near and far and knew she liked one of three potential themes: watercolor, abstract, or stained glass. “We got community input, and they overwhelmingly chose a stained glass art theme as their favorite. We put out a call for artists, and twenty-one summitted renderings.” The artists even included kids from the Young Company in the OTP. They held a community voting event, with a blind study of the competing work. “It was serendipitous. The clear winner was Matt McCormick, who’s been involved with OTP for a long time. So, he got the two big windows. We were able to spread the joy with two other artists’ work that was very different. But we felt it incorporated the spirit of our new branding style. So, they face the parking lot.”
ERIKA WYNN Drawn to the energetic nature of colors and how they interact, Erika finds joy in creating work that inspires conversation about ourselves and our environment. She explores ethereal landscapes, retro florals, and woodland nature motifs. Her work is full of bold design, flow and movement, and unexpected colorplay. All with a soothing punch.
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Matt McCormick MICHELLE BIEN Michelle has been working on numerous creative projects since graduating from the University of Michigan School of Art & Design in 2007 with a BFA in Interdisciplinary Fine Art and Design. Her professional experience includes local and international education, nonprofit and small business management, and freelance art and design. Her work has received national recognition. Michelle is a board member of the Northwest Michigan Arts & Culture Network and currently runs the French Language and Culture Group of Traverse City, along with Studio Bien, her art and design business.
Matt earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Northern Michigan University in 1986, with concentrations in Graphic Design and Commercial Photography. A position in the Art Department at TRAVERSE Magazine brought him to Traverse City in 1988, and his connection to the Old Town Playhouse began four months later working as a Props Artisan for Sweeny Todd (directed by Phil Murphy). Over the years his career path took him in several creative directions, aside from publishing and environmental graphic design, including many years as a Scenic Designer and Scenic Charge Artist. Matt currently lives in Traverse City with his husband of 32 years, Guy Molnar, and enjoys going for weeks at a time forgetting they even own a TV.
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COLLEEN B LARSON
MINA COTNER Mina is a junior in high school based in Traverse City, working most often in ink and watercolor. Mina focuses on historically inspired subjects and styles most often from the late eighteenth to early twentieth centuries. Combining a passion for fantasy and symbolic design, Mina’s artworks lean towards the whimsical and graphic.
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While growing up I loved to draw and paint. Art was always my favorite time in a classroom. I went on to college and studied art, obtaining a BA degree in Studio Art from Potsdam University, in New York. After graduating, I worked as a Personal Fitness Trainer for many years while continuing to create art. In 2008, I enjoyed teaching art in a Charter School for grades 4-8. Since then I have turned my attention to art full time. Recently I have been exploring modern and abstract art and am very enthusiastic about this type of expression. My husband and I live in Northport Michigan in the summer months. In the winter months, we live in Punta Gorda, Florida. I am excited and honored to have my piece “Magic Happens” as part of the 2023 Old Town Playhouse Project.
JANÉE MARIE MEADOWS Janée, a Traverse City native, is a Creative Director and comedian alongside her sister, Kali Meadows. Together, they make up Hot Metal Playground and run Two Sisters Productions LLC. For Janée, the theater has always held a special place in her heart. She takes immense pride in having her art featured at the historic Old Town Playhouse, a place that served as a wellspring of inspiration during her formative years. Through her art, Janée hopes to enrich the world with laughter and creativity.
Our Old Town Playhouse really is a gift to our community because each show on the live stage can only exist in the present. If it wasn’t for community theater most of your favorite actors wouldn’t be famous acting in the movies you love. Everyone starts somewhere.
What’s next on the Executive Director’s list? “We really need more rehearsal space; we use every single inch of this building. We literally step over kids in the hall. We will have to start discussions about expanding our space soon. Maybe not this year yet. But it will be in the near future.”
Michigan Sky Media
“THE GAME!” by Tyler Leipprandt of Michigan Sky Media What another incredible experience flying over 111,000 people at the biggest game of the year between Michigan and Ohio State. I was honored to fly above a Navy Boeing P-8 Poseidon. I was able to speak with the pilots of this 737 a few days before the game to coordinate their flyover details to prepare the best I could. With just a split second of an opportunity to get a shot like this, my pilot did an incredible job keeping me in position, and I was able to nail the photo! Shortly after I posted this to social media, it went viral, having ESPN and Barstool Sports share it with a total number of views well over ten million. michiganskymedia.com @michiganskymedia
44 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
JULIAN | BLACK
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“The best rooms have something to say about the people who live in them.” – David Hicks
PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR Pantone - “We chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.”
46 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
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PROJECT
HOME
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he newest hot commodity for the kitchen of the future is an invisible cooktop. Think sleek, clutter free, and easy to clean. It’s the next big thing and it’s gaining steam! Here’s why: every designer’s dream kitchen has an open floor plan of endless counter space. It’s the function part of having to include a pesky stove top taking up coveted space that could be chicer and more elegant. Or consider this if your home’s footprint has a tiny kitchen, like your family’s treasured lake cottage. This could be a gamechanger to create space you always wanted.
Invisible Cooktop The Next Big Thing in Dream Kitchen Design
Hot Tip!
Induction heating is also reported to be faster than traditional gas or electric cooktops, making it more time- and energy-efficient. Plus, the cleanup is a cinch: Wiping down a countertop is always going to be faster than cleaning up a stovetop.
48 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
What’s an invisible cooktop? It’s an induction cooktop that gets installed underneath your stone countertop. It gives you stovetop without any visible burners: You simply cook by putting the pan in the right spot directly on your counter! The leading brand is Invisacook, and it just came to town, exclusively partnered at Nowak Cabinets. “The trend in kitchen design has been moving more and more toward the truly uncluttered kitchen,” says Shannon Boncher, owner of Nowak Cabinets, noting appliance garages used to hide small appliances, or panel-ready fridges and dishwashers. “With the Invisacook, now we can hide our cooktop, too. The demand to convert kitchens into true extensions of living space continues to grow, making the invisible cooktop option just one more exciting example of how innovation has begun to grace the kitchen design world, now here in Northern Michigan, where so many generations of family gather.” Exclusively available at Nowak Cabinets 11744 US HWY 31 South Williamsburg, 231.264.8603 nowakcabinets.com
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“WE MAKE A GOOD TEAM” JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
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THE CABIN
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IN THE WOODS, reimagined Photos by Two Twisted Trees Photography, www.twotwistedtrees.com
THE WOODS of the north and south branches of the Boardman River hold a secret. Named “The Forks,” these private ten acres boast steadfast evergreens, roaming wildlife, and endless land for hunting and hiking, along with rippling waters for fishing and kayaking. Hidden beyond the trees is the secret—a one-of-a-kind cabin in the woods that we can now reveal.
You won’t find any of that here. Welcome to the cabin in the woods, reimagined and complete with a paved road and concrete drive! The Fork River Haus was newly built by HBA Parade of Homes Award Winner Royal Stag Construction. It’s every outdoor enthusiast’s dream, including a picky wife or high-maintenance family!
The quintessential up-north cabin, chalet, or hut are basic and functional. So, we kindly use the terms rustic, cozy, and woodsy instead. With small and boxy timber log-built walls, wooden beams, and no modern creature comforts to be found, they are often associated with first-generation home buildings by settlers, or by grandparents who built all they could afford and handed their home down for generations. Let’s not forget musty!
The first impression of the Forks River Haus screams strong, sturdy, and masculine. The entire structure mirrors a modern-day barn house, covered in a dark, slate-colored weatherproof siding. A black shingled roof matches the black metal satin-finished windows and doors. This cabin doesn’t just sit in the woods under camouflage; it’s planted permanent roots, dominating the surrounding woods where industrial meets mother nature.
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INSIDE, it wows on a grand scale. A sleek, chic open-space format features a refined, minimalistic design. Glass double doors and well-appointed windows flood in the light and add wooded outdoor views. Monochromatic hues rule with clean, stark white walls and vaulted ceiling against the kitchen’s bold black cabinets and appliances. The elongated lights, dripping down over the island, add a cool factor. But the luxurious saddle-brown bar stools steal the show from any angle.
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THIS WIDE-OPEN AREA is deceiving. Tailored rooms are cleverly divided by furniture and function. Couches and a flatscreen TV create a living room for relaxing adjacent to a stunning formal dining area for six people and a sit and chill area for reading, ending with the expansive kitchen for endless entertaining and informal dining. In all, there’s 1,600 square feet of living space with durable concrete floors throughout, which create a blank canvas for rugs to lay down pops of color.
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THE CABIN brings the outside in through careful attention to details that don’t disappoint, like the remarkable dining room and its main feature, the planked wooden table. Striped in harmonious honey and dark walnut hues, its smooth finish sings and shines nature’s warmth in all its glory. The magnificent kitchen island is ebony and ivory marble, hard, raw rock forged from faraway mountains and re-purposed by skilled tradesmen to shape, cut, polish, edge, and finally install to perfection. It creates an epic surface to set the stage for any party for the pickiest of hostesses.
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THE MASTER BEDROOM easily houses a king-size bed. Its claim to fame is the en suite bathroom. It’s a dazzling and daring use of saturated black tile and granite with the finishing touch of sparkling gold faucets. The space also boasts two additional bedrooms and another bath. Just like when Goldilocks wandered into the bears’ home in the woods, it’s not too big, and it’s not too small— it’s just right. And believe it or not, it’s only 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Traverse City.
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AND OF COURSE, any cabin in the woods would not be complete without an outdoor firepit, an up-north tradition for generations. The Fork River Haus is a part of The Royal Stag Properties Designed and Built by Royal Stag Construction Available to rent online at theroyalstagproperties.com Currently available for sale: MLS # 78080013760 Coldwell Banker Schmidt
60 JAN/FEB 2024 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
Looking for Something Special?
YOUR WAIT IS OVER! Williamsburg | Kalkaska County Michigan
EXCELLENT LOCATION 2 MILES SOUTH OFF M-72
• Beautifully wooded 5-acre estate-size lots with rolling hills • Surrounded by thousands of acres of State Land! • County maintained road with electric available • RV camping and storage building is permitted! • Direct access to recreation trails, just minutes to Elk Lake or Guernsey Lake • Easy commute to Traverse City • Short drive to Turtle Creek Casino, Grand Traverse Golf Resort, and Meijer store in Acme
Starting at $139,900
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JUST NORTH OF THE VILLAGE OF KINGSLEY!
• Beautifully wooded, rolling hills, estate size lots 2 to 5 acres • Cleared site, ready to build, spectacular views • Private blacktop road • Electric, cable/highspeed internet, natural gas • Bring your RV, seasonal camping permitted! • Storage building, horses allowed • Easy drive to downtown Traverse City • Close to stores, banks, post office, gas stations, and schools Starting at $119,900 Land contract financing is available to qualified buyers! (Additional terms and conditions may apply)
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401 W. Front Street (SW corner with Wadsworth Street) PHOTO COURTESY OF TRAVERSE AREA DISTRICT LIBRARY
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Book now at www.ourmajesticplace.com
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NORTHERN ENCOUNTERS TODD AND BRAD REED PHOTOGRAPHY
Soft Surroundings by Todd Reed I cannot imagine a softer looking, more exquisite setting in which to photograph a snowy owl. The rising sun is just beginning to light and color the fog when this snowy owl lands on a frost-coated, grassy berm right in front of me. This Northern Michigan winter view feels picture-perfect to me as I carefully focus and expose the image. F4.5 at 1/200, ISO 3200, 500mm lens at 500mm
toddandbradreed.com
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