Traverse Northern Michigan, September 2024

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QUANTUM LEAP THE HIDDEN WORLD OF THE TRAVERSE CITY HORSE SHOWS

PLUS

Destination: Petoskey Wine Country

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CELEBRATE THE SEASON FINALE WITH TWO 5* GRAND PRIX WEEKS SEPTEMBER 15

Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ CSI5*-W Grand Prix

SEPTEMBER 21

Major League Show Jumping 5* Team Competition

SEPTEMBER 22

American Gold Cup Grand Prix, 53rd Year!

Enhanced tickets offer the best views, complimentary drinks, and gourmet treats for you and your friends.

Plan your visit and purchase tickets at TraverseCityHorseShows.com/Visit 2023 American Gold Cup winner and 2024 Olympian Karl Cook celebrates victory at Flintfields Horse Park.

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Building and Renovating Northern Michigan’s Finest Residences

DISC

joel@joelpetersonhomes.com • 516 E. Front St., Traverse City • 231.994.2168

2620 Sandy Ridge, South Lake Leelanau Remarkable opportunity to build a new home on Lake Leelanau with J. Peterson Homes. Perfectly situated on a .35 acre site just south of the Narrows and 20 minutes from TC. The wooded flat property offers a low bluff leading to a sandy lake bottom and crystal clean waters. J. Visser designed home featuring a vaulted and open main floor flanked by the primary suite and guest rooms. The finished lower level offers an additional bedroom, bath and family room.

MLS:1920236 $2,200,000

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features 09.24

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT UP NORTH PEOPLE, PLACES, FOOD AND EVENTS.

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photo by Jacqueline Southby

A WARM WELCOME

Crisp and sultry wines, dreamy views and September’s still-sunny skies. You in? An under-the-radar getaway awaits in Petoskey’s wine country.

BY EMILY TYRA / PHOTOS BY JACQUELINE SOUTHBY

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QUANTUM LEAP

A pair of unlikely up-and-comers bursts onto Traverse City’s horse show scene—a scene that has caught the eye of the international equestrian sports community.

BY CARA MCDONALD / PHOTOS BY TIM HUSSEY

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SPECIAL SECTION: INSPIRED LIFE Restoring the iconic Sleeping Bear Inn; wealth-building tips; plus, living the dream at Camp Dubonett.

8/5/24 3:09 PM

Northern Michigan’s Original Alpaca Farm and Boutique!

Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm & Boutique

Farm

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May 23rd - Oct. 31st Monday - Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM Nov. 1st - Dec. 24th Wednesday - Saturday 11 AM - 5 PM

Animal Park

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4807 River Road Frankfort, MI 49635 231 - 920 - 7085 2nd retail location at The Grand Traverse Commons

DEPART M E N TS 7 | EDITOR’S NOTE 11 | UP NORTH

Closed Sundays & Holidays

Hot air balloons take flight over Bay Harbor; plus, the perfect Cross Village road trip, a can’t-miss concert in Traverse City and a Frankfort fundraiser to preserve an iconic lighthouse.

Sweaters, socks, hats, mittens, wraps, blankets, stuffed animals, and so much more!

15 | TRAVEL

Three new boutique lodging destinations we’re (very) excited about.

59 | CULINARY NORTH

photos by Taylor Brown (top) and Allison Jarrell Acosta (bottom)

At Archie’s West Bay Diner in Grand Marais, you’ll find retro décor, a Yooper gift shop and fresh baked slices of kropsua, a classic Finnish pancake.

60 | SIP

The buzz around town.

63 | IN THE KITCHEN

With its tender short-crust, layers of sweet-tart plums and rich, almondy frangipane, this tart is the belle of fall baking.

59 Follow Us On Social Media facebook.com/mynorthmedia instagram.com/mynorthmedia pinterest.com/mynorthmedia

64 | LOVE OF THE LAND This jewel of the Chain of Lakes sparkles in every season—but it’s best in the off-season.

ON THE COVER Ashlee Bond competes during last year’s horse shows.

Photo courtesy of Traverse City Horse Shows

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NORTHERN

MICHIGAN A MyNorth Media Publication

Vol. 44 | No. 4

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Cara McDonald

MANAGING EDITOR

Carly Simpson Allison Jarrell Acosta

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

PROOFREADER

Caroline Dahlquist

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS

Elizabeth Edwards Meagan Francis

ART DIRECTOR PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Tim Hussey Theresa Burau-Baehr

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR, SPECIAL SECTIONS

Rachel Watson

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Lisa Froning

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Mike Alfaro Ann Gatrell Erin Lutke

MARKETING DIRECTOR MARKETING COORDINATOR

FRIENDS & FLAVOR

Traverse

Ashlyn Korienek Kayla Kennedy

OFFICE MANAGER

OUR FRIENDS AND FLAVOR GIFT SET IS ALL YOU NEED FOR ENTERTAINING EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICES

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Visit MyNorth.com/Account to renew your subscription, change your address or review your account.

SELECT olive oil, Focaccia bread mix, Tuscan spice blend, stoneware cruet, 4 leaf green stoneware dipping dishes, and a small 18 Year Traditional balsamic to drizzle on top!

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Traverse Northern Michigan, (ISSN10713719) is published monthly by Heritage Broadcasting Company of Michigan, 1 Broadcast Way, Cadillac, MI 49601.

Periodicals class postage paid at Traverse City, MI 49684 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Traverse Northern Michigan, 415 Cass St., Traverse City, MI 49684. Advertising rates available upon request. Subscription rate: $39.95 for 12 issues. Single issue price: $6.50.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2024, Heritage Broadcasting Company of Michigan.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

Let’s get together and cook!

141 E FRONT ST • TRAVERSE CITY • 231-944-1145 PETOSKEY • ANN ARBOR • HOLLAND

FUSTINIS.COM SEPTEMBER 2024

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Find local wines at Tom’s.

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Editor’s Note When heading out to cover the Traverse City Horse Shows for this issue, I knew I could personally dork out for pages on the topic. One of my earliest memories in life is playing with a toddler toy, a colorful plastic horse that had a green head, red body and yellow legs. I clipped pictures of the Kentucky Derby out of the paper for current events sharing at school and watched showjumping on ABC’s “Wide World of Sports.”

Loving a thing sometimes makes it even harder to communicate to others what makes that thing remarkable. Our art director, Tim Hussey, was with me at the horse show last year to shoot the beautiful photos for the “Quantum Leap” feature, and I’m pretty sure I drove him nuts. I don’t think he wanted to hear one more time, in a stage whisper, which Olympian/ world-class rider/rockstar was standing next to us, or what breed of horse this one or that one was or how INSANE it all was that this was happening down a road to nowhere in Williamsburg. He eventually told me he needed to take a walk to shoot some atmospheric shots, which was really code for Girl, take a breath and go report your story.

Not to worry, I enjoyed my time out. Later, when it came time for the riders to walk the course prior to the competition, I nervously Cathleen Driscoll stepped into the arena—remarkably, the public is welcome to do this here—and breathed it all in, watching the athletes count their paces bes i write this, it’s two days before the tween jumps and calculate their strategy from the ground, opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer often trailed by a child or a tiny dog in a sweater. It was Olympics. I wouldn’t say I’m a huge sports weird and wonderful and all so incredibly close. fan, and I don’t generally have a watch plan Tim and I admittedly fell a little in love with our profor the Olympics, but I do tend to get sucked tagonist, rider Cathleen Driscoll, who calls Traverse City in by the athlete backstories that air between home each summer as she competes. Someone living the events. With a little insight into hometowns and personalities dream if ever there were, working her way up from groom and adversity that’s been conquered, suddenly everything is to international 5-star rider in just a handful of years. I humanized. The triumph of the human spirit takes front and knew her story was the way in—not just for me, but also center, and I have someone to root for. for our readers—and that through her, we all might fall a One of the best things about working in lifestyle journal- little in love with the world she inhabits—a world that ism, especially here at MyNorth, is that there are backstories now includes this tiny corner of Northern Michigan in a for miles to suck you in. Our code name for the best of these very particular way. is LTD: Living the Dream. When we’re discussing magazine From Cathleen’s journey to one family’s intergenerational lineups and story ideas, the moment we catch a whiff of the way of owning their slice of the North to the incredible hero’s journey behind the struggling cherry farm or the dream comeback of the Sleeping Bear Inn, there’s so much in this café newly opened or the historic home that’s been preserved, issue to root for. I hope you will. Their stories will let you in someone will quietly note: “This is classic LTD.” and show you how.

Stories are how the human brain is wired to relate, learn and connect. Not “content,” not snippets or memes or inforCara McDonald, mation cleverly packaged. It’s the story. Protagonists.

Executive Editor Scenes. Drama. Conflict. Context. This lights up our brain, cara@mynorth.com activates our empathy and gets us to suspend disbelief and come along for the ride.

ALONG FOR THE RIDE

photo by Tim Hussey

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Splurge … or Save?

Home building and design professionals weigh in on how to get the best value for your budget.

by MEAGAN FRANCIS

B

udgets: For the vast majority of us embarking on a home build or renovation, they’re simply a reality. The magic lies in determining which elements of your project are worth spending top dollar for, and where you’d be wisest to employ a little creative restraint.

The experienced team at Cottage Company, a premier building and interior design firm based in Harbor Springs, enjoys the challenge of stewarding their clients’ resources in order to maximize each dollar’s impact.

Here are recommendations from their pros on where to save on your next home project …and where to splurge.

Splurge … on performance fabrics and high-quality outdoor furniture. “Both of these short-term splurges can lead to serious long-term savings. “Performance fabrics have come so far in terms of aesthetics,” Konoske says. “Who wants to worry about beach sand and ice cream from the grandchildren or a red wine spill from a visiting friend?” And high-quality outdoor furniture not only lasts longer, but also doesn’t need to be dragged in and out of storage each year: “Just put the cover on and leave.”

On Construction

Save … by asking your builder to conduct regularly scheduled “value engineering” sessions with primary team members. When your builder is regularly on the lookout for ways to save you money via acceptable alternative materials and reviewing previously made selections, those savings can really add up—and yes, these kinds of reviews can be done even after construction is underway, says Joel Reb, principal and builder.

Splurge … on items that provide longevity, increase a home’s value and simply bring you joy.

Splurging on your home’s structural “bones,” including top-of-the-line windows, is an excellent decision for the long term. Extensive trim packages, millwork and popular features like outdoor lakefront living spaces are great examples of investments that pay off in higher home values down the road, says Reb. “But don’t forget the amenities that you simply must have. If you’ve always wanted a grand, full-masonry fireplace or an amazing outdoor kitchen, you should do it!”

photo courtesy of Cottage Company

On Interior Design

Save … by dialing down the budget in less-used areas like secondary bedrooms and baths, lower levels and carriage houses. “Use materials that can be easily changed out after the kids grow up or Fido becomes better trained,” says Kelly Konoske, creative director and principal at Cottage Company.

Konoske also recommends using brand names strategically.

“Ann Sachs tile is amazing and we love it,” she says. “But how about considering an Ann Sachs mosaic marble kitchen backsplash and a less expensive but still-beautiful ceramic field tile laid in a eye-catching pattern in the secondary baths?”

On The Whole Project

Save … on size. “Clients often come to us describing their future forever cottage of 5,000 square feet or more, but are amazed when we show them well-designed cottages of 3,500 square feet that comfortably meet their needs and desires,” says Rob Mossburg, founder of Cottage Company. “Every square foot of efficiency saves money, and cottages needn’t be huge to feel roomy, inviting and spacious.”

Splurge … on a professional, experienced team. At Cottage Company, the build and interior design team are in-house, and the team works collaboratively together and with the architect designing your space, says Mossburg. This actually results in real economic efficiencies and shorter project timelines—so while you may spend a little more up front, you will likely save down the road. “Funny how what seems to be a splurge is often actually a savings,” Mossburg jokes.

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Up North.

PEOPLE | NATURE | ARTS | NOSTALGIA | BUZZ | WISDOM | CURIOSITIES

photo by Kim Mettler

WISH YOU WERE HERE The 5th Annual Balloons Over Bay Harbor takes to the skies Sept. 20–22, welcoming thousands of spectators to enjoy music on Main Street, food trucks, an artisan market, a 3k Color Run and more family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. The lineup includes several morning and evening balloon flights along with spectacular “night glows,” when the balloons are lit up while grounded at the marina lawn, letting visitors get up close for an impressive view on both Friday and Saturday. This year, Balloons Over Bay Harbor will support local nonprofit Kiersten’s Ride, which brings help, hope and healing through suicide awareness and prevention programs in Northern Michigan. -C.S.

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The Highlands Harvest Fest A Harbor Springs Tradition

Urban BBQ Restaruant & Catering Outdoor Seating Craft Beer Full Bar Wine list 1752 US-31 EAST BAY TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN

smokeandporter.com • 231-642-5020

Join us for a day filled with fun activities and autumn magic!

Experience the essence of fall with live music, whiskey tasting, and Petoskey Brewery. There will be plenty of family-friendly activities including face painting, cookie decorating, burlap sack racing, pumpkin ring toss, and more. Tickets can be purchased in advance on our website.

Saturday, October 12 12 PM - 4 PM MYNORTHTICKETS.COM

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Williamsburg | Kalkaska County Michigan

Introducing ...

Looking for Something Special?

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• Beautifully wooded 5-acre estate • Direct access to recreation size lots with rolling hills trails, just minutes to Elk Lake or • Surrounded by thousands of acres Guernsey Lake of State Land!

• Easy commute to Traverse City • Maintained paved private road • Short drive to Turtle Creek with electric, high-speed internet Casino, Grand Traverse Golf • RV camping and storage building is Resort, and Meijer store in Acme permitted!

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Up North

CURIOSITIES

GET TICKETS Alluvion Presents: PhillipMichael Scales, Sept. 25

AS A CHILD, PHILLIP-MICHAEL SCALES

Preserving an Icon: Frankfort North Breakwater Light

photo by Dave Weidner

didn’t understand what it meant that his aunt’s friend, the guitar player who called him “nephew,” was B.B. King. Once Scales began guitar lessons, the significance caused him to shy away from most things blues. But, with a passion for performing, the Nashville-based artist fronted his own indie bands, wrote and recorded his own music, and worked to make a name for himself. All the while, his “Uncle B” encouraged him to “stay with it.” When B.B. King passed away, Scales began incorporating more of the blues into his music in honor of the legendary musician. The result is a sound he calls “dive bar soul,” which pairs indie rock storytelling with the passion of blues music. Give it a listen this month in Traverse City.

MyNorthTickets.com

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he city of frankfort is working to raise $1.1 million for its Lighthouse Restoration Project. Built in 1912, the aging North Breakwater Light still serves as a navigational aid and is a treasured spot for visitors and locals alike, but has sustained damage over the years, inside and out, due to its constant exposure to wind and waves. To donate or follow the progress, join the “Frankfort Lighthouse Restoration Project” group on Facebook. Korner Gem is crafting a limited-edition jewelry line called “12-32 Glass” using glass recovered from the lighthouse and donating at least 30 percent from each piece sold to the project. – C.S.

Allison’s Swooning Over: A Cross Village Road Trip WHETHER YOU LIVE UP NORTH OR ENJOY VISITING, you’ve likely heard of

M-119’s iconic Tunnel of Trees. What you might not know, is that nestled at the top is the idyllic burg of Cross Village. Here you’ll find beautiful beaches; the super cool Peninsulas gift shop and Three Pines Studio & Gallery; and eateries like the legendary Legs Inn and a new Petoskey Brewing outpost (check out their Oktoberfest menu!).

photo by Allison Jarrell Acosta

And now, travelers can stay right in the heart of it all.

Spirit Lake Retreat opened last year, and the two nights I spent there recently were a dream. Within the cabin-like exteriors of each suite, we were greeted with luxe amenities like a walk-in shower and the comfiest mattress ever. And outside in the common space, you’ll find fire pits for a night under the stars. Our group walked across the street to The Village Mart, stocked up on black bean empanadas and homemade baklava, and enjoyed a golden hour picnic before catching the sunset at Cross Village Beach. – A.J.A. Swoon! See what our editors are loving each month: link.mynorth.com/swoon

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SPONSORED

H O M E & C OT TAG E L I F E

OUR A-FRAME OBSESSION

Yep, these retro cabins are all the rage, but we love ’em for the chill vibe that Northerners have long cherished.

Even though A-frame structures have been around in this country for decades, the architectural style epitomizes what the 1960s and ’70s were about—i.e., throwing off the stuffiness of post-war years to live close to the land.

The lifestyle that went along with A-frames was as freeing as the architecture. For one thing, they became synonymous with vacations given that they popped up like morels all over ski country where their steeply pitched roofs easily shed snow. A great design for Northern winters for sure, but equally as genius for beach cottages with big glass windows set into the lakeside of the A. Let these five A-frames inspire a groovy vacay, or your next reno project: link.mynorth.com/cozycabins –LISSA EDWARDS

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Travel

CHECK INTO CHIC

by CARLY SIMPSON

Otis Harbor Springs

This meticulously restored mid-century hotel near the scenic M-119 Tunnel of Trees has been the talk of the summer with Condé Nast Traveler deeming it one of the most anticipated hotel openings of 2024. The historic property began welcoming guests in late May after a sophisticated top-to-bottom renovation. Co-founders Israel Hernandez and Ty Humpert brought in Daniel Caudill, who led the design of Detroit’s Shinola Hotel, and sought inspiration from interior designer Ken Blasingame, whose résumé includes projects at the White House and Camp David.

Thirty-one guest rooms, each marked with a hand-painted gold leaf room number, range from studios to spacious family suites, with patios overlooking a meadow-like courtyard.

Special touches include custom beds designed by Caudill and Humpert, luxurious Frette linens, Italian Tolomeo bedside lamps, glass waterfall desks, vintage leather Knoll chairs and a selection of original art from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s.

Winding pathways on the property Otis Harbor Springs give way to communal lounge spaces and intimate niches. In the courtyard, ere in northern michigan, we like to guests will find outdoor seating, bocce ball and stone fire call September “secret summer.” The lakes pits. And all are invited to enjoy three public venues: Birchare still warm, the days sun-filled and, with wood General, an onsite market offering local goods and kids back in school, the rush of July and arts alongside takeaway food and beverage; the Fireplace August slows down a little, welcoming cou- Lounge centered around the building’s original hearth with ples and solo travelers to indulge in a more vintage furnishings, custom mural work and cocktails; and a laidback pace. It’s the perfect time to explore a new place— window-service café overlooking an outdoor deck for al and we’ve got the lodging lowdown on three hot properties. fresco dining. >

photo courtesy of Otis Harbor Springs

New boutique lodging destinations to be (very) excited about.

H

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— Celebrating 68 Years — 1956 - 2024

Hull’s of Frankfort Open Year Round

Family Owned & Operated Since 1956 419 Main Street, Frankfort | 231-352-4642

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COUNTRY STORE From gorgeous homes to cozy man caves,

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Call (231) 269-4400 to order!

PAHL’S COUNTRY STORE | 11168 N. M37s, Buckley, MI 49620 | PahlsCountryStore.com 16 T R A V E R S E N O R T H E R N M I C H I G A N

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Blush rooftop bar at Alexandra Inn

photo by Taylor Brown Photography

Alexandra Inn, Traverse City

At the Alexandra, it’s the rooftop bar, Blush, that really sets the inn apart. Traverse City’s only waterfront rooftop bar dazzles with panoramic true-blue views of East Grand Traverse Bay. The 2,000-square-foot restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and a full bar menu to hotel guests and the public.

Menu highlights: a three-tiered charcuterie tower, apricot grilled cheese, cherry caprese salad, and the Petoskey Stone mojito with High Five Spirits’ lavender gin. A 100foot private beach for guests and nightly chocolate chip cookies also delight.

The Dexter, Elk Rapids

There’s lots to love about The Dexter—water views from most of the 20 spacious suite-style rooms, a downstairs bar with an outdoor patio, custom furniture by Wolf Wood Co.—but the upscale hotel’s downtown location may just take the cake. Walk down the street to the marina on Elk Lake and rent a Lilypad—a six-person, solarpowered boat; park yourself next to the Osorio Tacos Y Salsas food truck at Short’s Brewing; make reservations for a BOS Wine tasting experience in a beautiful 1920s farmhouse; then tuck yourself deep into your plush bedding at the end of a day well spent.

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A WA R M WE L COM E CRISP AND SULTRY WINES,

DREAMY VIEWS AND SEPTEMBER’S STILL-SUNNY SKIES. YOU IN? AN UNDER-THE-RADAR GETAWAY AWAITS IN PETOSKEY’S WINE COUNTRY.

.

BY E M I L Y

TYRA

PHOTOS BY J A C Q U E L I N E

SOUTHBY

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OH, to know the easygoing glow of September in Northern Michigan.

There’s a hush after the summer rush, just before fall color leaflookers arrive, when the resort towns take a beat. Somehow, there’s a settled energy in the air and just a little more room to roam. And if you can sneak away to experience Up North’s glorious fall lull, there’s no better place than the rolling hills surrounding Petoskey. The Lake Michigan town, best known for its rambling, sandy beaches and stellar ski resorts, is emerging as an up-and-coming wine destination.

A group of growers and winemakers pioneering Michigan’s newest and northernmost American Viticultural Area, known as the Tip of the Mitt AVA, are making the most of the region’s climate and soil, distinct from other established appellations in Michigan. These soils are laden with the fossilized corals we know as Petoskey stones, deposited when the glaciers receded to create the Great Lakes and to gift the land with glacial moraines. Winemakers here say calcite-rich Petoskey stones—large and rough-edged unlike their wave-tumbled shoreline counterparts—are prevalent in vineyard sites across the region and add to its unique terroir.

Growers putting down roots are embracing cultivation of allnew varietals—wine grapes with names like La Crescent, Frontenac, Marquette—developed at the University of Minnesota’s Horticultural Research Center. It’s simply too cold here for traditional vinifera like riesling or pinot noir, so the focus is on cold-hardy hybrids that thrive on the sandy, gravelly hillsides across the tip of Northern Michigan and actually bask in its harsh winters.

Head to Petoskey’s small, family-farm operations to experience a fresh winemaking style that comes with these new varietals. For fans of sauvignon blanc, dry, delicate La Crescent has lovely lemon aromatics and crisp acidity, while Marquette, with its jammy, plum and sweet cherry characteristics has emerged as the “it” red of the region. (Rosé wines made with Marquette grapes are a delight, too.)

The tasting rooms have an open-armed, momand-pop hospitality that shows off Petoskey’s emerging wine scene with stay-awhile vibes. This means generous pours of not only wine but also brews and ciders, elaborate sipping snacks, patios, pergolas and treehouses to loll about in, and a handful of super chill winery dogs as the friendliest of concierges.

The official Petoskey Wine Region is a collection of 16 (and counting) wineries, with still more independent tasting rooms peppering the countryside—far more than one can explore in a single day. Here’s a start, each just a stone’s throw from the other.

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS This time of year, wind your way up the hill past happy vines and the winery crew in early- to mid-harvest. The family-run team offers tastings of their estate-grown vintages, except on Friday afternoons and Saturday—then it’s full pours. Take your pick of peaceful sipping spots: a cool converted silo, a breezy treehouse, gracious Adirondacks with a blanket to keep the cool air at bay. The grazings here are more than an afterthought: Expect to make a copycat order when their artful charcuterie platter parades by.

Boyne Valley Vineyards backs up to the scenic 113-acre Postle Farm Preserve with a couple of miles of marked trails, so after wine, wander the scattered meadows and hardwood forest. Vineyard dogs roam the property, too; guests’ dogs are allowed on a six-foot leash.

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TO TRY: The estate Marquette rosé is a lush, off-dry delight, with juicy raspberry and strawberry notes.

La Crescent has bright flavors of stone fruits and lemon zest with gentle acidity.

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MAPLE MOON SUGARBUSH & WINERY Experimentation is a hallmark of the Petoskey Wine Region, and family-owned Maple Moon takes it to another level as the first commercial maple winery in the country. Founders Todd and Christi Petersen and team harvest maple sap from their 28-acre sugarbush, then ferment the natural sugars—no grapes involved.

Besides its own maple wine vintages, Maple Moon produces several grades of syrup, maple ginger and maple bourbon hard ciders, maple root beer, maple candy and maple cream. As you bask in the golden September light on their deck overlooking a handsome grove of trees, there is nowhere else you want to be.

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TO TRY: Maple Gold, a sipper at 18 percent alcohol, has port wine and bourbon characteristics with a lingering maple finish. Make certain to do a Michigan maple syrup tasting to cap off your visit.

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PETOSKEY FARMS VINEYARD & WINERY Seek out a cushy perch on the deck and take a moment to bask in the gorgeous rolling countryside: the vineyard, lavender fields and bucolic hills beyond. No elbow-to-elbow tasting bar experience here; instead, it’s low-key tableside service with extras like cheese and sausage boards sourced from iconic Plath’s Meats around the corner. Take your pick of wines (including estate-grown), luscious ciders or even a coffee flight to fortify you for the day’s adventure—the family-run farm opened a coffee bar on site last year.

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TO TRY: Blaufränkisch, made with 100 percent Northern Michigan–grown grapes, is a dry red that the proprietors best describe as “inviting like a cozy cabin.” For hard-cider fans, go for the lively lavender ginger cider. And the Bees Knees latte is a lovely honey- and lavender-laced pick-me-up.

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GABRIEL FARMS & WINERY It may not be on Petoskey Wine Region’s official roster, but Gabriel Farms is a beloved, bucolic oasis on the wine trail all the same. If the owners are on the property tending the vines and gardens, they’ll welcome you to their dream come true: a restored late-1880s farmstead with a soaring barn tucked into the sweeping countryside. Kristi and Duane Schuil purchased the post-Civil War era homestead with the intent to create a farm experience open to all. Rows of cold-hardy wine grapes, apple trees and berry bushes welcome guests as they drive up, as do the winery’s four lady Labrador retrievers. Patrons are free to walk the property—wine, beer or cider in hand—with one of the sweet pooches likely tagging along. On specific days in September, the family invites volunteers to help harvest and then unwind after a full day of picking with beer, wine and homemade treats. Stay in the loop on social media.

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TO TRY: The semi-sweet estate-grown La Crescent is bright, fruity and refreshing. Peach hard cider is a perfect way to celebrate the harvest.

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WALLOON LAKE WINERY The Dennis family has farmed the property nestled between the arms of Walloon Lake over four generations, most recently as part of the North’s next frontier in cool climate viticulture. In 2017—when the Marquette grape was still unsung and relatively unknown—their oaked North Arm Noir won Best of Class in the Michigan Wine Competition’s dry red category. Winemaker Matt Killman has continued apace, pairing serious wines with a seriously relaxed atmosphere in the family’s rustic tasting room.

The come-one-come-all spirit extends outdoors to the bird-friendly habitat, bat houses and a certified monarch butterfly waystation. In the early days of September, the winery gardens welcome migrating butterflies that convene along Lake Michigan before flying to their winter home in the mountains of Mexico.

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TO TRY: Windemere, named for Ernest Hemingway’s boyhood home on Walloon Lake, is a dry white blend of La Crescent, Frontenac Gris and Frontenac Blanc harvested from the nearby La-Di-Dah vineyard. It’s distinctly refreshing with tart citrus notes.

CRUISE WINE COUNTRY

I

f you’d like a gregarious driver to shepherd your crew through the snaking scenic highways in the Petoskey Wine Region—we know a guy! Jeff Kozisek and Petoskey native Kassia Perpich co-own Vine Ride Wine Tours, specializing in small group wine tours in their own backyard.

Kozisek, with a gentle Mississippi accent, leads the way in a seven-person van, complimentary snacks and insider knowledge. Whether you love whites, reds (or perhaps a winery-crafted beer instead?) he’ll steer you correctly. Tours by appointment. mivineride.com Emily Tyra has reported and shared stories for more than two decades in publications such as Taste of Home, Traverse Northern Michigan and Reader’s Digest. She writes from Lake Ann. Jacqueline Southby is a commercial photographer and photojournalist. She finds inspiration in people, places, and passions around the world while proudly calling Traverse City home. southbyphotography.com @jacquelinesouthby

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Quan

tum Leap

by Cara McDonald / Photos by Tim Hussey

In a world where fortunes are made and lost by the brush of a hoof and a hundredth of a second, a pair of unlikely up and comers bursts onto Traverse City’s horse show scene a scene that has caught the eye of the international equestrian sports community.

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—

If

there is a heartbeat to showjumping, it’s based in a three-part rhythm that ends in a gasp: Onetwothree. One twothree. Onetwothree—pause: the sound of horses as they approach a jump, collect and vault themselves skyward. The air is hushed; horse breath comes out in snorts timed to the beat. Foam gathers at the edge of their lips and in thin lines of sweat on their necks. On this cool September day, the warmup ring at Flintfields Horse Park is busy, the rhythm syncopated, as riders take turns peeling horses off the rail into the center where they launch over practice jumps, waiting to compete in the Grand Prix show ring just steps away.

The horses—a flurry of grays, chestnuts, bays— are European warmbloods of staggering size and athleticism, bred for bravery and speed. The riders, no less beautiful, look like they have stepped out of a luxury watch ad. Wiry, tanned, confident, they fly over 1.6 meter–tall jumps and settle hotblooded mounts who rear and fuss back to their onetwothree beat.

If you happened to bring your Olympian bingo card today, you’d be in luck: There’s Ireland’s Shane Sweetnam and Daniel Coyle; USA’s Kent Farrington, McLain Ward; Israel’s Ashlee Bond.

Oh, and the most famous and successful woman in the history of U.S. showjumping, five-time

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Olympian Beezie Madden, is casually watching at the fence after presenting an award earlier today.

What brings them here, to a hidden equestrian Shangri-La in Williamsburg this particular afternoon, is the 2023 American Gold Cup, one of the highest-rated shows and biggest purses in American showjumping. In the space of 30 or so hair-raising seconds, the cleanest and fastest rounds today will earn a payout of $488,860, with the winner pocketing $158,683.

They whirl steadily around the warmup arena, a carousel of invisibly gilded seven-figure ponies, some even nudging toward the price of a limited-edition Lamborghini.

Among them, a young rider walks quietly, her big bay gelding’s head lowered, reins long and loose, past some of the world’s most phenomenal equine athletes all in various states of wind up, freakout, or let’s goooooo. In this field of rockstars and their nostril-flared mounts, the stillness of this pair of up-and-comers is a quiet exception. Cathleen Driscoll reaches down absentmindedly to stroke her horse’s neck. Arome is a leggy, steady French-bred horse, just reaching into his prime; her “Big Horse,” she calls him—and this season, her big chance.

It was only two years prior that the 30-year-old Driscoll started competing at the FEI level, in international equestrian events governed by the Fédération Equestre Internationale, the International Olympic Committee–recognized governing body of equestrian sports. It’s her first year at the five-star level (the more stars, the bigger the jumps, the bigger the money). Her current overall ranking is 81st in the world and, though she’s not yet a capital N Name like some of those in the warmup ring, her 2023 season has been a phenomenal one, especially here at the Traverse City Horse Shows where she’s spent the entire summer. Just this morn-

I - -

help but catch the buzz of it—this new-to-thebig-time rider in this new-to-the-big-time horse show destination, a world-class drama playing out in a middle-of-nowhere field in Williamsburg, Michigan. Driscoll canters into the ring, Arome looking even-keeled and alert as the buzzer sounds; she now has 45 seconds to take him across the start line, triggering the timer to begin their round. Onetwothree. Hoofbeats on sand. The flap of flags in the air. The pair crosses the start line, rides the rhythm to the first fence and leaps.

n this field of rockstars and their nostrilflared mounts, the stillness of this pair of up and comers is a quiet exception.

ing she won the show’s leading rider bonus, an award for the most points scored all season.

A mere four years ago, the Traverse City Horse Show by the Bay was a six-week regional horse-show destination on the national summer show circuit. Under new ownership, it now runs twice as long, culminating in late September with the American Gold Cup, a 53-year-old event that the TCHS recently spirited away from its longtime home in Westchester County, New York. With the addition of new permanent FEI barns, the capacity to host large international events has cemented Traverse City’s place in the world of equestrian competition.

As Driscoll and Arome make their way to the start gate, you can’t

Imagine how incongruous it all is—a 1,200-pound horse, a prey animal, carrying a human being on its back and leaping six feet straight into the air.

But it began with a purpose: Showjumping as we know it traces back to Ireland in 1864, a basic contest using height and breadth of jumps as a measure of a horse’s athleticism and ability to serve as a solid hunting mount. The sport made its first appearance at the second Olympics, in 1900.

The showjumping crowd is a well-heeled one, the sport a favorite of royalty and heiresses and the children of rockstars or tech billionaires.

Like anything to do with horses in general, competing at a high level carries an eye-popping

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expense. The average FEI Grand Prix rider has spent decades riding and moving up the ranks, traveling and showing with a string of milliondollar-plus purpose-bred, high-end horses. To compete internationally usually requires wealthy horse owners and benefactors, high-dollar sponsorships or, quite frankly, generational wealth.

To this, of course, there are always exceptions—the flush-cheeked young rider and that big, happy-go-lucky gelding, for example. Driscoll is neither trustfunder nor royalty, equestrian world or otherwise; not yet, at least. She’s the rarest of birds, a talent with the combination of drive, innate ability and right place/right time opportunity.

Driscoll started out as a horse-crazy 5-year-old, tagging along with her big sisters to the barn and doing what horse-crazy girls do: figure out any way to be on and around horses. As a teenager, Driscoll had no private trainers or big-money mounts—she taught herself to ride by watching endless videos of world-class competitors and hanging

Clockwise: A rider on course in the Grand Prix arena for the 2023 American Gold Cup; Jacob Pope on Highway FBH waits in the warmup arena; one of Flintfield’s ubiquitous tiny dogs in jackets; Cathleen Driscoll receiving the 2023 point leader award.

around the schooling rings at shows, listening to trainers and absorbing tactics and advice like a sponge. Instead of racking up experience on a five-figure imported European warmblood, Driscoll trained her own horse, a retired racing Thoroughbred. “I found her in a field and thought she looked attractive,” Driscoll says. “In hindsight, we made a lot of mistakes.” But Driscoll rose through the ranks, eventually jumping the mare at the 1.3-meter level.

In 2018, Driscoll won the United States Hunter Jumper Association Emerging Athletes Program, a talent incubator designed to pull up promising athletes no matter their background or resources. She caught the eye of one of the clinicians teaching there who in turn connected her with Katie and Henri Prudent of Plain Bay Farm of Wellington, Florida and Rosieres-Aux-Salines, France. They hired Driscoll, who now splits her time between the U.S., France and her international competitions, riding professionally for the farm and training anywhere from 10 to 20 horses at a time.

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So far, the two have had good results at the three-star Grand Prix level as Arome moves up the ranks, which is the plan for this season and next.

Driscoll has two other horses in her top string—spicy mares named Flotylla and Magnolia—but for the big classes, she turns to the quiet bay.

For the past two seasons, Driscoll has made Traverse City her summer home.

Riders work from daybreak through dinner, six days a week, exercising, practicing and competing, and their world is limited to Flintfields, the nearby Meijer store and maybe a drink at the casino bar down the road. When asked where she hangs out, Driscoll thinks for a minute.

“We don’t get out much,” she admits.

“Sometimes SideTraxx on Sundays. For dancing.” (Riders have Mondays off.)

Has she been to the beach? “Yes, somewhere nearby ...” Sleeping Bear Dunes?

“I’m not sure, I don’t think so.”

Ask anyone outside of the horse park what goes on inside it, and you’d get an equally vague answer, maybe based on what it used to be 10 years ago—true to its name, a horse show by the bay, a sweet couple of weeks of summer events. But that all changed five years ago, when a legendary horse show management company got their first whiff of the lifestyle Up North and envisioned something bigger. Much bigger.

Above: Cathleen Driscoll and Flotylla, Alessandra Volpi riding Foster 39 and Vanessa Mannix on Lehar receive their awards from the opening event on American Gold Cup Sunday; Opposite: Cathleen and Arome on course for the Gold Cup 5*.

her racetrack mare, a bright bay colt with a wide, white blaze down his nose was born in northeastern France. Arome was destined to be a stud, fathering future generations of Selles Français sport horses—the breed is known for its athleticism, excelling in the show ring with a temperament that is quiet but energetic, intelligent, quick to learn. Arome is all these things, with an additional je ne sais quoi.

Driscoll started with Arome only three years ago, after the Prudents acquired him from their veterinarian, himself a breeder. “Henri told the owner, ‘If you ever geld him, he’d be a nice junior horse.’ The aim was to develop Arome’s talents and sell him,” Driscoll explains. “We joke in the barn: If you were to line up ten horses, you’d never pick him out as the ‘Big Horse.’ Such a casual guy, calm, laidback … but he has stepped up beautifully.”

“Arome and I are doing this together; he also doesn’t have a lot of experience at that top level,” Driscoll says. “We’ve been building a foundation. He’s a very dependable horse I can always call on. He helps me with my mistakes; I try to help him with his.”

The footing in the Grand Prix arena is the consistency of the beach after a good rain: damp, firm, fast. An underground reservoir provides constant self-watering.

The entire thing cost more than a million dollars to install, and it’s in large part what has taken the Traverse City Horse Shows from a four-week event to an internationally renowned showing destination, culminating in September with the American Gold Cup. With a top-of-the-line arena came the ability to host higher-level competitions and attract more serious riders. And with the addition of the new FEI barns—permanent structures allowing for the quarantine of international competitors and the implementation of heightened security—the capacity to host large international events has cemented Traverse City’s place in the world of equestrian competition.

This evolution traces back to Horse Show by the Bay founder Karen Flint bringing the Morrissey family and their MGM company on board to manage the show. “We started visiting, saw the potential, and took on a five-year lease with option to buy—and we took that option right

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away,” says MGM’s Managing Partner Matt Morrissey. “When we purchased, that’s when the improvements started happening.”

He knows something about building a community around the world of showjumping. Morrissey is a third-generation horse show organizer; his great uncle was the founder of Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida, just west of Palm Beach—also known as the winter horse capital of the world. The Winter Festival is the world’s largest and longest-running equestrian event.

Morrisey believes that Traverse City has all the components needed to create a horse-forward community: Large tracts of available land, a nearby city with amenities, solid airport access. “It’s unique to find a place like this,” Morrissey says. “With the component for the rest of the families—the sports, water, recreation—that’s the potential we saw [that convinced us to] make the commitment.”

Already that shift has begun. An equine-specific veterinarian opened a new clinic this year in Williamsburg, catering to the growing horse community. And

regular participants have begun investing in homes and farms in the area. “When people invest in a community around a show, they’re going to spend more time in that community,” Morrissey says. To that end, MGM is investing in housing for the seasonal staff of 150 people who make the shows possible.

MGM has also started developing real estate across the street from the show grounds to induce long-term horse show participants to put down roots. “Our vision isn’t for an Airbnb culture,” he says—something the local community has lamented while gleefully hoping that wealthy show participants will pay top dollar for their rentals. The 100acre property will be sold in 5- and 10-acre lots as part of an equestrian community where horse owners with summer-long showing commitments can keep their horses on their own property instead of in the pricey 10-by-10-foot tent stalls rented by the week (at any given time,

“

Arome and I are doing this together ... He’s a very dependable horse I can always call on.

He helps me with my mistakes; I try to help him with his.”

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there are up to 1,500 horses on site at Flintfields). The property, with lots starting at $225,000 an acre, will include bridle paths, utilities, roads and infrastructure, including an equestrian crossing that allows competitors to walk to the show grounds from their farms.

The Morrisseys have sought to connect the show to the local community and vice versa—a task that has been a challenge, he admits, as they work to communicate with both audiences what the show has to offer the region and the region has to offer the show. For the show crowd, a new concierge desk helps visitors find their way out and about

in Northern Michigan, connecting them with recreation and dining options. For the local community, MGM is rolling out the red carpet.

“Having spectators is super important,” Morrissey says. “The horses and riders enjoy it. When there’s a cheering crowd, the horses really get it.” Most days, admission to the shows is free; bigger weekend events have modest ticket prices, the proceeds of which are gifted back to local nonprofits. There is a VIP area with food, drinks and elevated viewing ops where small brass plaques i.d. private sponsored tables. Interestingly, the real action tends to hover between the warmup ring, where a small rider tent draws riders who’ve completed their rounds, and the hospitality tent—a huge, bustling hangout with high-top tables, a bar serving up local brews and, weirdly, a series of demo massage chairs where exhausted athletes peace out for a few, often with a tiny pet dog on their lap. Instead of cramped bleachers, a sloping lawn holds a fleet of Adirondack chairs for general admission spectators—frankly, some of the best seats in the house. “We wanted to keep a Northern Michigan feeling, and we wanted it to feel warm,” says Morrissey.

After Grand Prix events for the tournament of champions in September, riders linger to sign autographs and chat with fans. Among them, always, horse-crazy little girls. Who knows which ones will go on to ride, to excel, to compete. To fly.

Years of training, months of conditioning, hours of show-day prep—flatwork, grooming, massage, magnetic blanketing, braiding—all boil down to 30-some make-or-break seconds for Arome and Driscoll.

As the pair crosses the start line, there is the hush of suspended breath. In the VIP pavilion you can hear the buffet ice sculpture pit, pat, pit, gently melting into the lobster-and-caviar wontons beneath it.

Within a few jumps, the rhythm falters, onetwothree CLONK. There’s a sympathetic “ahhhh” from the crowd as Arome knocks down a rail, then another. The duo, true to form, don’t rattle; but the round turns on a moment, and the hope for advancing evaporates. As they finish, Driscoll reaches down to pat his neck; Euro synth music plays through the loudspeaker like the end credits of an ’80s movie.

The few riders with clean rounds proceed to the jump-off, and Karl Cook (USA) on the mare Caracole de la Roque obliterates the field with a blazing fast showing he’d later describe as “mildly terrifying.” An honest appraisal of a sport that is both beautiful and brutally tough.

Although she didn’t come close to the jumpoff, Driscoll’s day has been a win in every way.

Her season has been peppered with victories and capped with the leading series rider nod and a five-star go at the most famous Grand Prix in the country with some of the best riders on the planet. Not bad for a summer in Traverse City.

And Arome did well—did his best. “He’s learning,” she says. “And so am I.” Editor’s note: As of publication, Driscoll, now 31, is ranked 46th in the world. This year, she claimed her first 5* victory on mare Flotylla at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida. She continues to ride Arome, and in 2024, the pair have won the Mary Rena Murphy CSI3* Grand Prix Classic at Lexington in May, as well as the FEI 4* Upperville Welcome Stakes in June. Driscoll won the Ingram Family CS13* Welcome Stake at the Traverse City Horse Shows in July on a new horse partner, Idalgo.

2023 American Gold Cup Winner Karl Cook, along with Caracole de la Roque, was shortlisted for the 2024 U.S. Olympic team. The 2024 American Gold Cup will take place Sunday, September 22, at Flintfields Horse Park. Olympians McLain Ward, Kent Farrington and Karl Cook are confirmed riders in this year’s event.

Cara McDonald is executive editor of Traverse Northern Michigan and enjoys spending time with her “Big Horse,” a giant mustang mare named Summer.

Tim Hussey is the art director of Traverse Northern Michigan magazine. He is also a fine artist and photographer who enjoys shooting stories that speak to him. thusseyphoto.com

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Waking the Beauty of

S L E E P I NG B EAR A half century after it closed, the oldest inn in the national park system is open once again to laughter, the best night’s sleep ever, home cooking, lifetime memories and even romance.

by ELIZABETH EDWARDS / photos by ALLISON JARRELL ACOSTA

O n a cool autumn day last year, the 39 panes of antique glass that line the porch of the Sleeping Bear Inn framed a scene that has changed little since time immemorial: The Manitou Islands floated on the deep blue water of Sleeping Bear Bay, golden sun bounced off creamy sand, and the three white pines across the road braced against the stiff lake wind that keeps them as stunted and shorn as though deliberately shaped by a bonsai master. Inside the inn’s enclosed porch, innkeepers Maggie and Jeff Kato had lit a fire in the old brick hearth in preparation for a small wedding ceremony. “The porch was filled with warmth, sunshine and love,” Maggie recalls.

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While this intimate ceremony marked the beginning of the bride and groom’s life together, it held special significance to the Katos: it was the first public event to be held in the old inn, set in the Lake Michigan hamlet of Glen Haven, since the National Park Service shuttered it in 1972 as the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was being established. And that fact had everything to do with the Katos and their calculated—albeit gutsy—decision to toss out conventionality, sell the home in Flushing where they’d raised their five children, and move to this Northern Michigan outpost.

True, the inn wasn’t actually open on that autumn day—wedding guests could go no farther than the porch. It would be another 10 months before the Katos began taking reservations. But while the list of what still needed to be done was long, the Katos and their contractor, the MacGyver-esque character George MacEachern, had already moved proverbial mountains to rescue the circa-1860 building, working through issues as diverse as financing and bureaucratic red tape, to reglazing those antique windows. “We felt our hard work fully restoring the porch down to every pane of glass was worthwhile as people celebrated together in this special place,” Maggie says.

Because of the trios’ ingenuity, hands-on labor and so much more, life was returning to this building that had once been the center of the storybook-like kingdom of Glen Haven, a town that had lasted through the better part of two centuries. It was a place chock full of life in all its glory— old-school hospitality, laughter, gossip, home-cooked meals that stuffed you so full you hurt, euchre games in front of a spitting fire, scandalous trysts and even a couple of frontier fairytale romances. “That building had so much character it could talk to you,” recalls Robin Lambkin, who waitressed there in the late 1960s through the inn’s last summer.

The Katos were determined to re-create as much of that vibrant and historic ambiance as possible, right down to the homemade pancakes—the giant, fluffy pillows turned out of the kitchen that the last innkeeper, Nellie Day, had presided over from the 1930s until the inn’s final day in 1972.

the steamers that docked across from the inn, bringing summer resorters up from Chicago, was a major social event, one that often ended in the inn’s dining room. Winters were quieter but no less charmed, given that DH built an indoor skating/curling rink across the road from the inn for the village children—including his own large brood.

In 1934, after DH died, his son-in-law Louis Warnes (once DH’s chauffeur who had somewhat scandalously married DH’s daughter Marion) started the Sleeping Bear Dunesmobile rides, their shiny cars stored in the garages next to the inn. The drivers dressed in starched white shirts, pressed blue trousers, ties and, in the early years, pith helmets. All-in-all, recalls Lambkin, “They were a flotilla of God’s gift to women.” Breakfast, lunch and breaks, the drivers headed to the inn to be served by (and flirt with) waitresses in white dresses and aprons who’d learned proper serving etiquette from Nellie Day. By then, the ambitious Nellie had risen in the family ranks to become innkeeper. Her hair always pulled back in a well-sprayed twist, Nellie commanded the goings-on from her big desk in the corner of the parlor, along with her fat black cat named Tom who lived on liver, cream and cookies.

The inn’s 10 rooms and its dining room (open to the public) were packed all summer.

Once every season, GM executives booked the inn while photographing the company’s latest cars on the dunes. Lambkin recalls one morning when one of the housekeepers pulled her aside to whisper that she’d found two beds pushed together and she didn’t think the couple leaving the room were married.

“She assured me she pushed them back apart,” Lambkin says, laughing.

The dune car rides and the inn were at their apex of popularity when the government closed them to establish the park.

An eerie quietness settled over Glen Haven, and over the next half-century, the pounding weather off Sleeping Bear Bay took its toll on the old building. Still, the massive beams, hewn from the virgin timber that surrounded the village, stood strong. “We felt that it had so much life to give,” says Maggie.

“That building had so much character it could talk to you.”

before there was nellie day, there was DH Day, Nellie’s father-in-law and once one of the most colorful figures along the eastern Lake Michigan coast. Day stepped off a steamer in 1878 to take a job in the village—and ended up acquiring the inn and everything around it in three years, earning the nickname King of Glen Haven. During his first 10 years there, Day lodged at the inn, where he pledged to someday marry Eva Farrant, the innkeeper’s pretty daughter—a promise he later kept.

Thus began the Camelot era in Glen Haven, when the little village in the enchanted setting hummed with life. Meeting

the inn had passed its sesquicentennial when the stars began to align for its renaissance. Soon after taking the helm at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in 2016, Superintendent Scott Tucker decided to revive an old goal that had languished for decades in a 1990s National Park Service planning document: to find a partner to lease the inn and adaptively re-use it. Tucker well knew the search would be akin to finding a needle in the haystack. “Let’s see if we can find someone who has the dedication and passion to bring it back to life, [even when] you don’t own the building, the government owns it. You have to meet all of the Secretary of Interior’s standards

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for historic preservation. And you have to work with a bureaucratic beast that is the federal government,” Tucker says.

Tucker put Sleeping Bear Chief Ranger Phil Akers (now the superintendent of Dinosaur National Monument in Utah) in charge of sending out an RFP to the public seeking interested parties. Two proposals had already been turned down when Maggie happened to read a news story about it in 2017. She was intrigued—she and Jeff had been mulling their next chapter of life, and she suspected their unique résumés might suit this project. Together they had grown the Genesee County Habitat for Humanity from a three-person staff with $500,000 to a 20-person staff and $6 million budget in just over a decade. In the process, they’d overseen the building of 150 new homes and 500 rehabbed homes, coordinating everything from contractors to bankers and community organizations along the way.

But it was the qualities in the humans behind that résumé that equally impressed Akers and Tucker on the August day in 2018 when they first met the couple. “I don’t think there’s any ego involved with the Katos,” says Tucker. “They’re here for the right reasons, which is to provide a visitor opportunity in a historic inn that will create lifetime memories for the public.”

The Katos signed an initial contract with the government to run the inn in 2020, but the process screeched to a stop during the Covid-19 shutdown and its aftermath. It took two more years before the actual lease was ready for signing. In true Maggie and Jeff style, however, they let no grass grow—forming the

nonprofit Balancing Environment and Rehabilitation (BEAR) and inviting MacEachern, with whom they’d worked with at Habitat for Humanity, onboard as head of construction.

Funding was obviously a huge consideration. The projected cost for the renovation was $1.8 million. The Katos contributed the first $350,000 from the sale of their home, then went on to raise almost another $400,000 from private donations. That left approximately $1 million dollars, a tough sell to any financial lender given that the government would own the building regardless of what happened—so there was no collateral. But Oxford Bank, the bank the Katos had turned to so many times in their crucial work for Genesee Habitat for Humanity, came to the rescue. “They came up to see the project and they said, ‘We see the money we put in coming back,’” Jeff says. “We love our bank. Without them this would probably not have happened,” he adds.

In 2022, with all ducks finally in a row, the Katos signed a 40-year lease for the Sleeping Bear Inn and with the federal government. In the wake of that occasion, Tucker uncovered a grand fact about the long-neglected inn: it is the oldest overnight lodging building in the entire National Park system— beating out National Park all-stars like The Ahwahnee (1927) in Yosemite and the Grand Canyon’s El Tovar (1905).

“We felt that it had so much life to give.”

the bear team’s real work, however, had just begun. In the winter of 2022, the Katos and MacEachern dove into the DIY renovation with gusto. Working in the unheated building, the

Jeff and Maggie Kato

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team demolished walls, ripped out ancient plumbing, tore out the floor of a sagging addition tacked on in the1920s and went on to repair the old foundation. They sanded and painted until their arms were numb. MacEachern’s ingenuity never ceased to amaze the Katos, as when he simmered the antique brass window hardware in a crockpot with Dawn dish soap to remove old paint. They ended each day covered in dust, dirt, cobwebs and anything else that had floated or crawled into the structure over the course of a half century.

All of that, and this warm, vibrant couple still made time to get to know their new community. Jeff joined a men’s walking group and is on the old-timer’s poker call list. Maggie is in a book club and the local women’s club, and they both take their places at euchre tables whenever they have a chance. Along the way they’ve met descendants of the Farrants, Days, Warneses and others, folks who have come forward with stories and even donations including silver serving pieces and a Bible once used in the inn by keepers William and Ezilda Farrant, and a wicker rocker that had belonged to DH and Eva Farrant Day. But most helpful of all were the hundred or so volunteers who came out to do everything from teach Maggie how to glaze glass to planting sod, efforts that filled in the last gap in funding.

Because they were able to complete the project with hundreds of donated volunteer labor hours and with generous help from their former Genesee County subcontractors, the project is wrapping up at just over $1.7 million, Maggie says. this summer, the Katos welcomed guests to the inn’s eight newly refurbished rooms, each with an ensuite bath. From top to bottom, Maggie’s selections of furnishings, wall color (a soft sage), light fixtures and wallpaper echo the Craftsman period when the inn was an elegant frontier outpost. It isn’t hard to imagine DH Day sweeping in from a day conquering the Northwoods to head up to his room with its expansive view

that included both the village and Sleeping Bear Bay. Just as with past innkeepers, the Katos have put their own imprint on the inn. They’ve named the rooms playfully, from Day Dreaming (the room that is believed to be where Day stayed) to Sleeping Bare, and Maggie decorates the two carved bears they’ve installed on either side of the porch steps with tinsel crowns— shamrocks for St. Patty’s Day, stars for the Fourth, and so on.

And once again, just as in Nellie Day’s time, the aroma of pancakes floats out from the kitchen—only now griddled on a sparkling new Wolf range. Maggie loves to cook, so everything, including the pancakes, are her own recipes (spoiler alert for fall guests: expect her killer pumpkin pancakes in-season). Personal tweaks, certainly, but the inn’s timeless vibe continues under the Katos’ tenure, and it all begins with the view that sweeps past the scraggly, bent white pines, over the bay to the Manitou Islands. That stunner of a panorama has kept folks wanting to cook, clean, sleep, vacation, eat—whatever it takes to be in this magic building—for more than 165 years and counting.

Elizabeth (Lissa) Edwards has been writing about Northern Michigan lifestyle and history for more than 40 years.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Stay in the Game Expert tips for spending less, recovering faster and getting the best care for an orthopedic injury.

by MEAGAN FRANCIS

From pickleball to paddling, keeping an active lifestyle in motion often means managing injuries, stiffness and soreness.

And while injuries can be a pain, getting the treatment you need shouldn’t be an obstacle to getting back in the game. We talked to Jim Stilley, chief executive officer of Great Lakes Orthopaedic Center in Traverse City, for his take on how to stay moving for the long haul:

ing hip or sore wrist can often be helped by conservative, nonsurgical treatment, which is usually where you’ll start your care. “We really want people to realize that orthopedic-based physical therapy is critical and many times required by insurance prior to getting surgery,” says Stilley. “With the way the muscles and ligaments and tendons work, physical therapy can

Remember your options. “Just because you slipped and fell, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to go sit for seven or eight hours in the emergency room,” says Stilley. “Give us a call—we’ll get you right in, and we’ll do the X-ray right here onsite.”

If you do wind up in the ER or urgent care and need surgery or follow-up care, don’t feel pressured into going with an unknown provider, Stilley says. “Let’s say you break your arm and go to the ER. Often you’ll see an emergency room physician or physician’s assistant and then be referred back to a hospital orthopedic surgeon if you need surgery,” says Stilley. “We want people to understand that they always have a choice about who performs their follow-up care.

You can get stabilized in the ER and then come back to us. We’re always on call, and we’ll get you into surgery quickly.”

Consider the total cost. By getting treat-

ment through a specialty provider like Great Lakes Orthopaedic Center, you aren’t just ensuring quality care—you’ll also save money in the end. “We refer to a surgery center for most issues that don’t threaten life or limb, and it’s much cheaper—about half the cost of going to the hospital,” says Stilley, who points out that while the doctor’s fees are the same, the facility cost will be much less at GLOC’s Surgery Center or office.

The same is true for imaging tests, like an MRI: only about $250 at non-hospital facilities, versus two to three times that at a hospital. And don’t expect that your insurance will make up the difference: “More and more often these days, insurance companies aren’t covering a lot of the cost for tests and copayment, so a patient might have to pay that out of pocket,” he points out.

Establish care early. Instead of waiting for a serious injury

to take you out of your groove, it’s wise to see an orthopedic doctor early on, even for more minor aches and pains. A click-

help you get back to your active life so that you don’t feel that clicking or pain in your hip or knee or shoulder.” And once you’ve established care with GLOC, it’ll be that much more seamless to coordinate care for injuries if they come up.

Opt for comprehensive care. Traverse City–based Great

Lakes Orthopaedic Center offers value-conscious, world-class all-in-one care in a single location. Imaging services, orthotics and physical therapy are all offered onsite, reducing waiting time, driving, expense and hassle.

“Other orthopedic groups in the area might have two or three doctors, but we have thirteen, plus ten physical therapists and eight PAs” says Stilley. “We have a lot of specialties.

We offer a lot of choice. We’re Northern Michigan’s largest orthopedic practice by far.”

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Understanding the CD Ladder Strategy A low-risk investment with guaranteed returns.

by KIRSETIN K. MORELLO

Throughout our lives, we think about saving and investing, whether it’s to establish an emergency fund, prepare for major life events like purchasing a home, or so we can one day enjoy retirement. Depending on the stage we’re in, at times we may want a lower-risk investment plan that provides a steady, guaranteed rate of return.

In those instances, a CD (certificate of deposit) ladder can be a great vehicle to provide growth along with financial stability.

With a CD ladder strategy, instead of investing in one CD, with one interest rate and maturity date, you spread your investment across multiple CDs, each with a different maturity date. You could choose from 3-, 6-, 9- or 12-month options, for example.

By doing so, you’ll be able to access your funds consistently as each CD matures.

“A ladder strategy allows you to have more control over the liquidity of your money while still being fully invested and having those guaranteed rates,” explains Kevin Kohlhoff,

“Using a CD ladder helps you hedge against inflation and market volatility,” says Kohlhoff. It mitigates the risk of locking in a large sum of money at a potentially less favorable rate. “And if interest rates rise over time, you can take advantage of the rising rates by reinvesting your CDs as they mature.”

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CDs offered by Community Choice and other federally insured credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), an independent federal agency (similar to the FDIC for banks), for up to $250,000, which protects your principal investment against loss. “At Community Choice, our personal advisors work with members whose balances are in excess of that amount to ensure their funds are fully covered,” Kohlhoff says.

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If you’re nearing or already enjoying retirement, having a secure investment plan means you can relax and focus on what really matters to you, without worrying about market ups and downs. A low-risk CD ladder can be an important part of that equation, assuring your hard-earned savings will be there when you need them. “Sometimes,” says Kohlhoff, “peace of mind can be what matters most of all.”

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Your Northern Michigan Lifestyle Is Good for Your Heart How the place that has your heart can also make your heart healthier.

by KIRSETIN K. MORELLO

For those fortunate enough to call Northern Michigan home, it’s no secret that our hearts are happiest here. Given that heart disease remains the number one killer of both men and women in the United States, it’s great news that living here can make our hearts healthier, too.

Our Up North lifestyle—unplugging from devices, spending time in nature, connecting with family, engaging in enjoyable activities—reduces stress, benefiting cardiovascular health.

That’s especially good news for women, who are more likely to die of heart disease than from all cancers combined, but have historically been underrepresented in heart disease research.

Sarah “Sally” Soter, a Northern Michigan resident, discovered this disparity in 2003 while Sarah reading a TIME magazine article in her doctor’s “Sally” office. Diagnosed with atrial fibrillation—a heart Soter condition increasing the risk of heart disease— Sally was shocked to learn about the unique risks women face and the gender gap in heart disease research. She decided to get involved. “I wanted to help in any way I could, especially in research,” she says.

Sally’s commitment led her to partner with the American Heart Association to fund numerous research projects, endow a Chair in Women’s Cardiovascular Health and support various health programs. In 2019, she received the American Heart Association Award of Meritorious Achievement for her contributions.

She also walks the walk—literally. In addition to reducing stress, we all know that moving more and eating healthier are keys to maintaining a healthy heart. Sally keeps moving by walking her dog and doing Pilates.

Up North, we can enjoy walking or biking on the Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) trails, which provide more than 100 miles of trails. And Northern Michigan’s

lakes, forests, fitness centers, tennis and pickleball courts and golf courses make it easier than ever to stay fit.

In addition to fitness opportunities, our region also boasts dozens of farmers markets, farm stands and U-Pick orchards, making it simple to source fresh fruits and vegetables. Even Northern Michigan cherries are notable for being a nutrient-dense superfood that can aid in recovery after physical activity. And many local restaurants showcase healthy farm-to-table cuisine.

Recognizing the importance of these healthy lifestyle choices, the American Heart Association launched its signature women’s initiative, Go Red for Women, 20 years ago to emphasize the critical factors influencing women’s heart health.

When Sally read the TIME magazine article, she became an ardent supporter. Today, her dedication continues.

She recently donated $15 million to the American Heart Association to support the emerging $75 million Go Red for Women Venture Fund, aimed at closing research gaps and advancing cardiovascular disease studies specifically for women. “Research, people, programs and the AHA inspire me to continue the fight to cure cardiovascular disease,” Sally says.

“Sally’s passion for improving women’s health is the driving force behind her remarkable generosity,” adds Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association. “As she often says, ‘legacy matters,’ and this new gift is another powerful example of her commitment to the Association’s mission and to creating a healthier future for women everywhere.”

This year, the American Heart Association celebrates its 100th anniversary, which makes it a great time not only to embrace the heart-healthy lifestyle opportunities in Northern Michigan, to also join Sally in supporting the ongoing fight against cardiovascular disease.

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INTO THE WOODS

A desire to be near family. The longing to settle down. A farm for sale. How two generations of one family came together to build a dream life/side hustle/semi-retirement compound in the Northwoods.

interview by CARA MCDONALD

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photo by Grant Piering

W

e call them “living the dream” stories: tales of how people fell in love with this place and rearranged their lives to be here.

For some, that involves a lifelong connection in the form of a family cottage. For others, it’s a vacation that sparks a longing to move halfway across the country on a hunch. For Tim Rehard and Curt Titus, it was a long and winding road—but one that led them to a little horse farm in the woods and a life that is pretty dreamy. Most of the time.

But without unlimited finances or a family legacy property, how do you jumpstart your life’s next great act?

We sat down with Rehard and Titus, co-owners of Camp Dubonett, whose horse farm/Hipcamp is the result of a shared dream and investment involving Tim, Curt and Curt’s mom, Kathy VanPelt. Kathy, who owns one third of the property, spends summers at the farm and lives in her apartment in the home’s lower level, helping maintain the gardens and pitching in around the grounds of their Hipcamp business, which is home to four vintage campers the couple rents on the property.

Tim and Curt also run a small horse boarding business, which while not wildly profitable, creates a destination appeal for campers and helps them keep their farm roots alive. The rest of the picture? A balancing act of day jobs, side hustles and the constant work-life juggling act that allows them to live in a beautiful log lodge on the outskirts of Traverse City.

Here, the couple shares the story of how they put the pieces together, and advice for those working toward their own dream of owning a slice of the North. >

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Cara: Origin story time: What brought you Up North?

Tim: Curt and I were visiting my family in Ohio for Christ-

mas in 2011 and drove past a farm that I had always loved as a kid, and it was for sale. We both joked that it would be weird to move back to the Midwest, “wouldn’t it?” We didn’t buy that farm, but it got the wheels turning, and after a couple months of conversations we were moving to Michigan. We were “those people” who bought a 13-acre farm by only seeing a YouTube video of it.

We had a 10-year plan to be full-time farmers. But like many new farmers, we realized that the current environment is highly stressful, barely profitable and with incredible risk.

So, after eight years of living downstate and many trips Up North, we got the itch to move again.

Simultaneously, Kathy saw an opportunity to downsize from her large condo and was looking to see if she could offer one of her kids and families a chance for a “better” life. The three of us pooled our resources and bought the farm that is now Camp Dubonett, a log home, barn, riding arena and campground on five acres near Long Lake.

C: What do you love most about

at 10 p.m. in the evening when you have been up since 6:30 a.m. running circles making the place just so for the campers, boarders and guests … cleaning toilets, bleaching showers, fixing plumbing that has gone awry, elbows deep in liquid you dare not question.

T: Our largest challenge is multi-layered. First, we both work from home in a house that we co-own with someone.

That someone is a parent. So as much as you want everything to be “equal” and “fair,” sometimes you just gotta give a little. During the initial discussions of “summer,” when Kathy would be living at the farm, the words “three months” were used. “Summer” became more like May to October … then November/December. We’ve worked through it all and everything is fine now. But, for those looking to combine households, it’s like they say in therapy: You gotta lay it all out on the table and don’t be afraid to share what makes you nervous. You have to be absolutely honest and forthcoming

“OUR GUESTS HAVE BECOME FRIENDS; WE’VE HAD THEM COME BACK AND CONTINUE GROWING FRIENDSHIPS.”

your life right now?

Curt: I love hosting and getting to interact with people who we wouldn’t normally share a weekend with. Our guests have become friends; we’ve had them come back and continue growing friendships. My education background is in cohousing and hospitality design, so for me this is a playground to try things out, experiment with how things are received and learn how to really hit the nail on the head for the most amount of folks. The rentals at Camp Dubonett are ranking in the top five of rentals in this region.

That takes a lot of work—telling the same story consistently and giving attention to all the details.

T: As much as we don’t want to admit it, by combining our income with Kathy’s, we were basically able to more than double our living situation. The house is nicer, the property is nicer and the neighborhood is nicer. A trifecta! Right now, I’m loving the Up North experience. We’re water and outdoor lovers, so we’re in the perfect location. We bought a pontoon boat to use on Long Lake this year. We continue to learn about new hiking trails—winter hiking up here is just magical.

C: What’s the biggest challenge?

C: Getting up early and telling the same stories, and the end-

less amount of laundry. Picking up bedding, sorting laundry, washing laundry, bedding, folding endless pillowcases, and my God people, folding fitted sheets. Resetting coffee for 20

with how you envision the relationship working.

Since we also run a business on our property, there is a lot of juggling happening. Fortunately, camping is only seasonal, so we get a bit of respite from that in the winter. But the animals don’t care that we’re tired, sick or sleepy. They don’t care if it’s hot, cold or rainy. They need food, water and attention like clockwork.

Combining all of this makes time our biggest challenge.

Time to do the things that must be done. Time to do the prep work so things will be ready, things don’t break and we meet our customers’ expectations. Time to do our “real” jobs. Time to rest. Time to clean and organize. Time to process! Notice no mention of vacations or enjoying the wonderfulness of Up North. (We do sneak those in somehow.)

C: How do you juggle your jobs with your life and work at the farm?

C: While Tim works a pretty regimented day job, I have the flexibility to push my day job aside, provided I work nights and weekends. Since my job requires me to be physically present at certain points of the process, I pull some long days driving around the state. I am usually working on at least two professional projects downstate while also getting the

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day-to-day minutia of the barn done and picking up the bulk of the camp work.

C: What was the biggest adjustment to your new life here?

C: The workload. This is a business that, if done well, looks

top and middle photos courtesy of Camp Dubonett // bottom photo by Grant Piering

pretty breezy and fun. It also takes a remarkable amount of attention to detail. It’s the never ending-ness of this that is a challenge.

T: I think the largest adjustment for me is that we’re sharing space again. We all have different hours that we wake up, eat and sleep. We have different ideas of “clean.” We have different ideas of personal space. Fortunately, things work fairly well for us.

C: What practical modifications did you make to the property and biz model to accommodate the multi-generation/family aspect?

T: Because we both work from home, we were able to set up separate working spaces that were away from the common areas. We also discussed defined areas of the house that were for each of us. Kathy’s space is the lower level. She can do whatever she wants to do down there. She pays for any changes that she wants. If it’s an overall improvement, we keep track of the value. We do the same. We make the improvements we want.

If we decide to part ways, we’ll add our investments to our separate equity.

The businesses are the same way. We pay for farm and camping expenses. We have a separate LLC that has a lease with us personally. If we dissolve our partnership and the businesses add value to the overall worth, we all agree that they will be part of our equity.

We introduce Kathy as “Grandma Kathy” to the campers.

They love it; she loves it. It makes her feel included and special. She even shows up in some of our reviews!

Kathy was previously living in a condo by herself. She paid for many outdoor services. Because we’re younger and handy, we do most of those things on our own. She finds value in that and has always been very fair in paying some of what she would if she were living on her own.

C: What advice would you have for people considering similar collaborations/moves?

C: I would put everything in writing. It was a huge learning curve within our family to hear what someone says, and does, and what they mean, and the intention behind it. Get it all written out and non-emotionally worked into a plan.

This was a huge leap of faith. I think in the end, we banded together and are stronger than before, but it could have been more transparent.

T: Combining households has many advantages but also disadvantages. It can add safety and security. There are several tax advantages to doing things early. It allows younger generations opportunities that they may not get in the future.

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Making life decisions that involve money, emotions and relationships can be daunting. However, it doesn’t have to be, says Holly Gallagher, CFP , founder and president of Horizon Financial in Traverse City. “Working with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER professional who understands your financial snapshot, as well as your wants and needs, your communication style and your values, can help you reach your ultimate goals—and avoid your biggest fears,” she says.

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W EALT H WIS D O M Three Northern Michigan financial advisors share their best money tips, strategies and mistakes to avoid.

by CARLY SIMPSON

I learned this the hard way:

A

good financial advisor is equal parts money master, strategic planner, hand holder and psychologist, helping clients work through fears, blocks, stuck places and dead ends when it comes to making money work harder for you as you look toward retirement. And boy, do they have stories—and hard-earned wisdom. We asked them to share the best advice they’ve gathered throughout their careers.

“Don’t hoard cash, or cash equivalents. These are designed for short-term investing and are often held much too long. Inflation quickly erodes buying power. Focus on the timeframe for the money as a determinant of the investing objective.”

–Dawn Hemming, hemming& Wealth Management, Founder & President

“Over the years I have learned that not all financial advisory firms are created equal. Each one may have different licensing, and therefore the investment tools they offer could differ drastically from the financial advisory firm down the street. Unfortunately, you may come across an advisory firm that feels a certain investment tool fits everyone’s needs, regardless of their circumstances.

Picture a carpenter that doesn’t have their hammer and needs to drive home a nail. Well, they might have a wrench that can be turned on its side and swung a lot, but it’s definitely not as smooth a process.”

–Jon Torbet, Centennial Wealth Advisory, Senior Partner & Financial Planner

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Best advice I ever received: “Practice living on retirement spending levels one to two years before you retire. This reduces financial stress at retirement.”

–Dawn Hemming

“Don’t let regret or feeling behind stop you from acting now. There is always something you can do to make your future financial situation better. You have to act and avoid procrastination. It’s never too late to start investing.”

Dawn Hemming

–Heidi Cartwright, Prout Financial Design, Managing Director & Financial Advisor

“Probably the best and most simplistic piece of advice I ever received is that there are two primary phases of retirement planning, and each phase should have a unique investment structure. Retirement is a fundamental change in your life—shouldn’t your investment structure also experience a fundamental change? You begin with the ‘Growth and Accumulation’ phase, where your goal is to simply save as much as possible while trying to accomplish the most growth. You will then transition into the ‘Preservation of Wealth and Income’ phase. This may begin approximately five years prior to retirement where you still want to grow your portfolio, but you become more aware of risk within your retirement savings and how you will soon need to transition some of those assets to replace the paycheck you will no longer have upon retirement.”

–Jon Torbet

Jon Torbet

What I wish all my clients knew: “Investing for retirement is a long-term plan. By diversifying assets with varying timelines, a portfolio can absorb short term needs and build wealth over the long term. A short-term outlook can trigger an emotional move to divest investments or change strategy at a less favorable time. Day trading is different from a long-term plan.”

–Heidi Cartwright

“Our team has been airing the ‘Retiring Well’ television show on all four major networks across Northern Michigan for more than a decade and our hope is to educate everyone on important financial matters. I am confident that our clients know this, but for those individuals not yet retired or recently retired, I want to make sure they understand that having money saved for retirement does not equal a retirement ‘plan.’ You need to have a multitude of areas working together to accomplish your retirement goals.”

Heidi Cartwright

–Jon Torbet

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Easing Our Emotional Ties to Money How to be investment savvy while releasing resistance.

by LISA BLAKE

Sometimes we hang on to underperforming stocks gifted to us decades ago. Or we let sentimentality hold us back from selling the lake cottage that we no longer use. Maybe we play it safe and allow fear to take the wheel, swiftly pulling out of the market when it tanks. These reactive money moves can put us in a place of stagnation—or worse, set us back a few notches when we’re seeking forward momentum. We sat down with three expert advisors—touting more than 75 years of combined experience—at hemming& Wealth Management to pinpoint some common finance flounders.

The Traverse City–based advisors provide education on tax and cash flow planning, investments and estate planning to empower clients to live their very best lives. “We are absolutely passionate about the work we do at hemming& Wealth Management,” says founder Dawn Hemming. “By listening carefully to client goals and desires, we craft clever solutions that embrace the client’s financial experience.”

Here, hemming& advisors share their top tips for more money ease and less emotional stickiness: EVALUATE BIASES

Behavioral finance highlights common biases, such as the tendency to keep familiar investments or hoard cash out of fear.

Recognizing these biases can help you make more rational investment decisions.

While reviewing spending habits, look for emotionally driven trends or behaviors that you may want to change, like retail therapy or eating out when stressed. The healthiest investors maintain a positive outlook on life, holding gratitude for the people and opportunities around them rather than allowing outside factors to steer money decisions. This is especially true during seasons of big life changes, says hemming& advisor Autumn Chalker Soltysiak.

“My experience working with clients has shown me that people who start with gratitude and a positive outlook, even when they’re starting over from the death of a spouse or divorce, have the best success,” Soltysiak says.

UNDERSTAND EMOTIONAL TIES

It’s natural to form emotional attachments to certain investments or assets. Whether it’s hanging onto a stock that’s been in the family for years or keeping a house because of the memories it holds, these ties can sometimes cloud our financial judgment.

“The goal is to have clients using money as a tool; saving,

trusting their advisors and staying focused on the long term, and to not be so tied to it emotionally,” says hemming& Chief Compliance Officer Jena Posey. Here’s how to proactively manage emotions: Stay Objective: Regular check-ins with a financial advisor can provide an unbiased perspective, helping you make decisions based on facts, not feelings.

Diversify: Spreading your investments across different asset types can lessen the emotional impact of any single investment’s performance.

Set Clear Goals: Having well-defined financial goals can guide your decisions, ensuring they align with your long-term plans rather than short-term emotions.

Educate Yourself: Knowing how markets work can help you stay calm during ups and downs, making it easier to keep emotions in check. Understand the cost to hold, for example, property taxes and maintenance costs for a cottage, or the missed opportunity cost on what the asset could earn if invested differently.

Stick to a Plan: A solid investment plan with specific criteria for buying, holding and selling can help you stay disciplined.

TACKLE MONEY AVOIDANCE

Many people avoid dealing with their finances, Soltysiak says, but facing money matters head-on is crucial for building wealth. Oftentimes we carry stories around money that can be inflated by grief, fear or lack of confidence. A divorce may leave us disempowered when it comes to money decisions. Loss of a loved one may feel financially paralyzing in the moment.

“We had a young family say I really want a lake house … someday. But they weren’t moving forward with it because they thought it was something they had to wait on,” Soltysiak says.

“We devised a plan for them to have it now and make those memories with their children while they’re young.” Here are some tips to overcome money avoidance: Start Talking: Open up about money with family, friends or a financial advisor. These conversations can demystify finances and reduce anxiety.

Track Your Spending: Create a budget to see where your money goes. Use a simple spreadsheet or budgeting app to make this task easier and more manageable.

Take Action: Don’t put off financial decisions. Whether it’s investing, paying off debt or saving, taking action is essential.

“Ultimately, financial empowerment and releasing emotional ties and fears around money comes from understanding that money is just a tool that we use,” Soltysiak says. “By understanding and managing emotional attachments and actively engaging in financial planning, you can make smarter, more intentional decisions.”

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T he Cu l i nary North local restaurants . craft drinks . seasonal cuisine

THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN P. 60 TRY THE FINNISH PANCAKES AT ARCHIE’S P. 61 BAKE A PLUM TART P. 63

“

The Yooper charm of Archie’s West Bay Diner— a retro dining car-turnedeatery—is irresistible.

photo by Allison Jarrell Acosta

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1) After exploring Cadillac’s new 100-plus-mile ORV/OHV Scenic Ride through the Manistee National Forest (We’d suggest a fall color tour!), slide into Clam Lake Beer Company for a cold craft pint and a brick oven pie with sausage, goat cheese, roasted garlic and wild mushroom pesto.

2) Kayak the clear waters of West Grand Traverse Bay with rentals from Paddle TC (easy access at Clinch Park), then walk on over to Fresh Coast Beer Works for the privateer panini with salami and smoked gouda, and check out the always-changing tap list; we like Sand Bar Sour with notes of peach and raspberry.

3) The 15-mile Boyne Forest Trails are a favorite of local mountain bikers with loops for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. It doesn’t hurt that Stiggs Brewery & Kitchen in Boyne City is a skip away with smoked wings, BBQ pork sandwiches and 30 taps.

4) Amble up Old Mission Peninsula to Lighthouse Park and be rewarded with an arc of dreamy beach, a forest full of hiking trails, the historic Hessler Log Cabin and the 1870 Mission Point Lighthouse (open seasonally for self-guided tours).

Now, turn around and head back to Jolly Pumpkin for oak-aged sour beers and Parmesan-crusted mac ‘n’ cheese.

5) Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve, located just south of Elberta, has two miles of trails winding through forest and meadow ending with stellar views of Lake Michigan and a lovely beach. And when you end up at Stormcloud Brewing Company afterward, with zesty ranch popcorn and a caprese sandwich, well, life is good.

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T he Cu l i nary North Bite FINNISHED!

by ALLISON JARRELL ACOSTA

This fluffy oven pancake won’t last long on your plate.

P

photos by Allison Jarrell Acosta

icture this: it’s a cool september morning in Grand Marais, and you’re craving a cozy homecooked meal before a Sable Falls hike, or a meandering drive along Lake Superior. Down the street, a neon sign beckons: Breakfast Served.

The Yooper charm of Archie’s West Bay Diner—a retro dining car-turnedeatery—is irresistible. Aqua-blue bar stools line the counter, with booths and glass block windows on either side; above, a chalkboard serves as a pasty-ordering scoreboard (tallies mark plain, gravy, ketchup and the dreaded “other”). And best of all—the corner booth offers views of West Bay and the dessert case.

The Dish: Order the kropsua, aka pannukakku—two slices of freshly baked Finnish pancake topped with homemade strawberry compote and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. This classic, custardy Finnish breakfast is perfect to share, and pairs nicely with a three-egg omelette or a breakfast pasty topped with made-from-scratch sausage gravy. Pro tip: Come back for lunch and get the goulash.

Don’t Miss: The U.P.-centric gift shop in the back of the diner, where owners Jenn and Matt Archibald proudly display local books, artwork and provisions. (And check out the fridge stocked with 14 flavors of glass-bottled root beer.)

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T he Cu l i nary North In the Kitchen

^ Plum Almond Tart For the crust: 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 Tablespoons sugar ⅛ teaspoon salt ½ cup (1 stick) chilled butter, cut into ½-inch pieces 1 egg yolk 2 Tablespoons ice water For the filling: ¼ cup (1/2 stick) butter, room temperature ⅓ cup sugar 1 large egg ⅓ cup sliced almonds, finely ground in food processor 2 teaspoons flour 1 teaspoon almond extract 6 plums Special equipment: 11-inch tart pan, food processor 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. For the crust, mix the flour, sugar and salt in a bowl, then cut in the butter with a pastry cutter (a fork will also work) until the butter is well incorporated. The mixture should resemble fine breadcrumbs.

2. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk together with the ice-cold water. Pour into the flour mixture. Slowly bring the ingredients together with your hands to form dough, being careful not to overwork it. (You may also do the above in a food processor.) Form the dough into a ball, cover in plastic wrap and chill for a few minutes before rolling.

3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper into a circle slightly bigger than your tart pan.

4. Lightly press the dough into your pan. Pierce the tart crust with a fork several times and chill again for a few minutes.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Let the crust cool while you prepare the filling.

(Leave the oven on.)

RIPE FOR THE PICKING With its tender shortcrust, layers of sweet-tart plums and rich, almondy frangipane, this in-season tart is the belle of fall baking.

1. To make the filling, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until creamy.

Beat in the egg, followed by the almonds, flour and extract. Spread evenly in the cooled tart shell.

2. Cut the plums in half and remove the pits.

Cut each into thin slices. Arrange the slices, overlapping in concentric circles, leaving a ¼-inch border around the edge.

3. Bake in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling in the middle of the tart is set. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for several hours before slicing.

From the Traverse archives; recipe by Emily Tyra.

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Love of the Land

get there TORCH LAKE

photo by Dave Weidner

September on the ever-popular Torch Lake is pure off-season bliss.

Kick this month off with a “secret summer” swim or paddle, and soon, as autumn begins to color the shoreline, indulge in a serene fall hike (nearby Coy Mountain offers peaceful wooded trails and peek-aboo water views).

This jewel of the Chain of Lakes sparkles in every season, and thankfully a local nonprofit is working hard to ensure the turquoise-blue waters stay that way.

The Torch Lake Protection Alliance recently launched the “Keep Torch Lake Blue Campaign,” a massive conservation effort focused on assessing the water’s changing conditions— namely a green-brown tint caused by brown algae on the lake bottom. “Torch Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, and we are determined to keep it that way for future generations,” says Dave Martin, TLPA vice president and campaign chairman. To learn more, visit tlpa.co. –A.J.A

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