Innovation + Job News

Clinch Park revitalization project complete

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Traverse City's Clinch Park is hosting a ribbon cutting this week to welcome residents and visitors to its newly revamped improvements.

The downtown park has had almost $3 million in improvements as part of the city's Bayfront Plan, including a waterscape named for former governor and longtime Traverse City resident William Milliken, a new bathhouse and concession building with patio, universal access to the beach, an enhanced trail system, a universal-access small boat launch, a new children's playground, and an improved pedestrian tunnel--the Cass Street Tunnel which connects the park to the farmer's market parking lot.

The ribbon cutting is at 11 a.m. on June 25 at, of course, Clinch Park, on the Traverse City waterfront.

The project was funded in part by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund and the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and had closed the park from last fall until the end of May.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: City of Traverse City

Homewaters Recreational Real Estate hires new director of operations

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Homewaters Recreational Real Estate in Traverse City has a new director of operations, Joel Greene.

Greene has an MBA from Lawrence Technological University and brings business experience including strategic planning, management, recruiting and mentoring to the real estate company.

Homewaters was founded by brokers and owners Chad and Mandy Brown, and now has ten agents who represent buyers and sellers of river, lakefront and other recreational properties in northwest Michigan.

"We could not be more excited to have Joel on board to support our company and help shape our future within the real estate industry," says Chad Brown. "He joins Homewaters at a critical time as we launch our spectacular new website and leverage our growing presence in key markets."

Greene's duties include recruiting new agents, training and career development, community and civic involvement and business development in the communities Homewaters serves.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Homewaters Recreational Real Estate

Cole is new field operations manager at Springfield, Inc.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Springfield, Inc. has a new field operation manager after hiring Trevon Cole to the position recently.

Cole joined the team earlier this year and comes in with more than 10 years experience in the construction industry. His responsibilities with Springfield, Inc. include supervising field operations to make sure the company's commitment to top-quality service and production is upheld.

Cole has a bachelor's degree in construction management from Purdue University and has his OSHA 30 card as well.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Springfield, Inc.

Sullivan named principal at Rehmann

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Ryan Sullivan has a new position with Rehmann Retirement Builders in Traverse City after being named recently to the position of Principal-in-Charge.

In his new position, Sullivan will be responsible for overseeing all of the company's retirement plan services divisions, which includes everything from advisory services to administration and consulting. The company, which provides retirement solutions for over 1,100 plans, is responsible for more than $3 billion in total plan assets.

"Ryan has demonstrated time and again his capabilities for this new role," says Steven Kelly, the chairman and CEO of Rehmann. "I'm confident that, with his leadership, we will continue to enhance our services to our many valued retirement plan clients."

Sullivan has over 12 years of experience as a financial advisor. He has a bachelors in finance from Michigan State University.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Rehmann Retirement Builders

New app available for parking in Traverse City

Tuesday, June 04, 2013

A national parking payment company and Traverse City Parking Services have teamed up to make instant parking payments from your mobile or smartphone possible as summer tourism season rolls around for Traverse City.

Parkmobile USA creates apps for Apple, Android, Windows and Blackberry products that allow customers to pay for parking with their phones. The apps are in use in many major cities and other Michigan cities as well.

The app is called Parkmobile and customers can register free online (www.parkmobile.com) or download the app. They can then use the app, the website or a toll-free number to pay for parking. The app also provides alerts and reminders about when your parking expires.

"Parkmobile is very excited to launch our mobile payment parking service in Traverse City, another progressive thinking city," says Cherie Fuzzell, CEO of Parkmobile USA, Inc.

The payment system already is offered in Petoskey, along with Mount Clemens, Birmingham, Ferndale, Dearborn, Grand Rapids and South Haven.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Parkmobile USA

Traverse City State Bank has two new managers

Tuesday, June 04, 2013

Traverse City State Bank has announced two new arrivals on the bank's staff in two different branch offices.

At the bank's downtown Traverse City branch, Cindy Godmer will join the team there as assistant branch manager. Godmer brings more than 13 years of experience to the job, and is a Traverse City native and a Grand Valley State University graduate.

In Suttons Bay, Chris Milliron will be the new branch manager for that location. Milliron has more than six years of banking experience including consumer and commercial lending, marketing and management. He's a Leelanau County native and Glen Lake High School graduate, and holds degrees from Lake Superior State University and Davenport University.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Smith Haughey adds summer associate

Tuesday, June 04, 2013

Smith Haughey announced three summer hires company-wide, one of which is in the law firm's Traverse City office.

Selena Stanski is a current student at Wayne State University Law School and will be working with attorneys in Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge's Traverse City office, including attending and observing hearings, depositions, mediations, client meetings and trials.

Stanski earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Detroit Mercy and serves as the vice president of the Health Law Association at her school, and as director of finance for the Asian Pacific American Law Student Association. In the past, she has worked as a legal clerk for the University of Michigan Office of the General Counsel. She will graduate from law school in the spring of 2014.

The two other students, both from Michigan State University College of Law, will work in Smith Haughey's Grand Rapids office for the summer. Smith Haughey also has an Ann Arbor office.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Smith Haughey

Two new massage therapists hired at Living Light

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Living Light Massage has two new massage therapists now available for appointments at its Traverse City center.

Kirsten Grimm and Dawn Ross have joined the group of massage therapists at Living Light this spring.

Grimm came to Living Light in March, and is a nationally-certified therapist with 12 years of experience. Her specialties include deep tissue, relaxation, hot stone, pregnancy massage, and polarity therapy. She also is a licensed esthetician and certified yoga instructor.

Ross joined the team in April, and has been in the massage therapy and spa industry for the last four years. She specializes in deep tissue, sports, relaxation, hot stone and pregnancy massage.

Located at 134 West State Street in downtown Traverse City, Living Light Massage is open seven days a week with six treatment rooms.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Living Light Massage

Elizabeth McAllister joins team at Floor Covering Brokers

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Floor Covering Brokers in Traverse City has a new designer on staff.

Elizabeth McAllister has more than ten years of interior design experience, including working with architects, builders and homeowners. She holds a degree in interior design from Michigan State University.

McAllister will be part of Floor Covering Brokers' sales team at its Traverse City store, and also is available for design and consultation on flooring and window treatments.

Floor Covering Brokers specializes in the design and installation of all types of flooring, as well as window treatments. They also offer carpet cleaning services and complete residential and commercial flooring projects.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Floor Covering Brokers

Northwest Michigan businesses make 50 Companies to Watch list

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Each year, companies across Michigan that are in the second stage of development and poised to grow and succeed are chosen for the 50 Companies to Watch awards.

This year, there are a significant number of them located in northwest Michigan, which says only good things about the direction our regional economy is headed.

All together, the 50 companies honored this year had $937 million in revenue and added 728 employees from 2009 through 2012.

Traverse City is home to six of the 50 businesses. They are Altus Brands, LLC, a specialty brand manufacturer founded in 2007; Cherry Capital Foods, a agricultural distributor which is expected to add up to 38 jobs in the next few years; Critter Control, headed by Kevin Clark, which will bring as many as 25 jobs to the state in the next few years; Grand Traverse Distillery, founded in 2006, a craft liquor manufacturer; retailer M22, founded in 2003 by Keegan Myers; and Moomers Homemade Ice Cream, which will add about 30 jobs in the next couple of years.

In Reed City, H&H Wildlife Design and Fur Dressing, Inc., headed by Mark Marlette and founded in 2002, was also on the 50 Companies to Watch list, as was manufacturer Cadillac Culvert, Inc. in Cadillac, founded in 2012 and owned by Donald Aldrich.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michigan Economic Development Corp.

Kempf named new CEO of Members Credit Union

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Members Credit Union in Traverse City has a new president and CEO, Andrew Kempf.

Kempf brings 20 years of experience in the credit union and finance industry to the TC-headquartered financial institution. He most recently was the manager and CEO of Preferred Federal Credit Union.

Members Credit Union has several Traverse City offices, along with branches in Mancelona, Kalkaska and Manistee. It serves customers in Antrim, Benzie, Kalkaska, Grand Traverse, Leelanau and Manistee counties.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Members Credit Union

New appointment app created by Kingsley resident

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Missed appointments at the doctor's, hair salon or garage might be a thing of the past with a new smartphone and tablet app designed by a Kingsley resident.

Schedg-It is an app available for download that connects service providers with their customers to confirm, remind, cancel or reschedule appointments, with their Apple or Android phone or tablet.

The creation of Alexa Bach, Schedg-it was inspired by missing a dentist appointment. Bach thought it would be helpful if the dentist could have sent the appointment information to her phone, and from there, she worked with family members and friends to create the app.

Service professionals like the dentist can enter appointments and send reminder alerts to clients through the app itself, text message, or email. Schedg-it also syncs with other calendars on the client's mobile device to avoid double-booking. Clients can use it to confirm, cancel or reschedule the appointment, with phone numbers for the service provider included and stored.

Bach has a business degree from the University of Findlay and is now operating and running a company backing the app from Kingsley, her hometown.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Schedg-It

Traverse City State Bank adds two to leadership team

Tuesday, May 07, 2013

It looks like Ann Bollinger will have a new title and a few more responsibilities at Traverse City State Bank while Dan Druskovich will settle into the role of newly-hired vice president.

TC State Bank announced that Bollinger was recently promoted to president of the financial institution, while Druskovich is a new senior vice president with the commercial lending team.

Bollinger will not only have a new role and new responsibilities, but she will continue her duties as the bank's chief financial officer and TCSB board member as well.

Bollinger has been with the bank since 2009 and has helped lead the team to profitable years in 2010, 2011 and it's most profitable year ever in 2012.

Bollinger has more than three decades of experience in banking, including positions in strategic planning and global strategy for large, multi-national institutions. She is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and is currently finishing up her master's degree in business administration.

Druskovich was recently hired as a senior vice president for Traverse City State Bank and has more than 25 years of lending experience. He was recently a vice president in commercial loans for another local bank.

Druskovich is a graduate from the University of Notre Dame where he earned his master's in business administration.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Acme, Bellaire, TC among tourism "Stars of the Year"

Tuesday, May 07, 2013

Several northwest Michigan businesses were among those honored as "Stars" of the state tourism industry in April.

The Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association hands out "Star of the Year" awards each year at the Pure Michigan Governor's Conference, and this year our area was well-represented, with award recipients from Acme, Bellaire, Gaylord and Traverse City.

Aaron McIntyre of Treetops Resort in Gaylord was awarded Seasonal Star of the Year for 2013. He's the assistant manager for the resort's golf and ski shop, and has worked there since 2005. He won the award for his personal initiative to improve the golf shop and willingness to take on any task.

Doug Cook is the kids' experience coordinator at Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City, and oversees the resort's childrens' club. He won the 2013 Attraction Star of the Year award and also recently won the hotel's employee of the year award for the regard in which Cook's fellow employees and happy customers hold him.

The 2013 Sales and Marketing Star of the Year was Chris Hale at Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire. Hale is VP of the resort and oversees all departments that produce traffic and revenue. His marketing efforts for Shanty Creek's fiftieth anniversary included extending the brand message with a statewide campaign, new resort-wide campaigns and launching a custom print publication called "Traditions."

The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Acme received the Good Earth Keeping Award for 2013, accepted by general manager Tim Norman. It's not the first time the resort's environmental efforts have gained notice; it won the Northern Michigan Environment Action Council award in 2011. Among its achievements: in the first year of a new green program, the resort composted more than 100 tons of food waste, diverted more than 40 cubic yards of plastics from landfills, and reduced overall waste by more than 40 percent.

Other award recipients came from Birmingham, Dearborn, Detroit, East Lansing, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Sault Ste. Marie.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association

Northwestern Bank adds new vice president

Tuesday, May 07, 2013

Northwestern Bank in Traverse City has a new VP, Scot Zimmerman. Zimmerman will be head of commercial lending as well as the bank's chief lending officer.

He comes to Northwestern Bank with more than 20 years of business and banking experience, previously serving as senior VP at another local financial institution.

Zimmerman is a TC native and got his undergrad degree at Central Michigan University, going on to earn a MBA degree from Pace University in New York. He's also the founding chair of the Northwestern Michigan Tooling Coalition and serves on the board of Grand Traverse Industries in Traverse City.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Northwestern Bank

Century 21 Northland adds two agents to staff

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Century 21 Northland just keeps growing and growing, and it needs to keep up with that growth through the addition of new sales agents.

That's why it hired on it's newest employees, Matt Geib and Steve Scheppe, at it's main Traverse City office.

Geib brings with him a strong background, having earned the title of Rookie of the Year 2011 by the Traverse Area Association of Realtors while working in sales of lakefront, riverfront and all-season recreational properties. He has nearly three years of experience and is a graduate of Central Michigan University.

Scheppe knows what it's like to be the Rookie of the Year, too, having earned the distinction from the Traverse Area Association of Realtors in 2012. He previously has been involved in construction management as well as property management and is a graduate of Central Michigan University.

Century 21 Northland now has more than 35 realtors serving Northwest Michigan.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Century 21 Northland

Springfield Inc. hires two new employees

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

There are two new faces at Springfield Inc. with the announcement by the company that they have hired a new director of operations and brought in a business development manager.

Springfield announced Nick Jacqmain was promoted to Director of Operations and named Mitch Roman to the newly-created position of business development manager.

Jacqmain has been with Springfield since 2009 when he joined the company as a project manager. He holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and sports management from Central Michigan University. In his new role he will be responsible for working with the management teams and overseeing daily operations.

Roman, who has a bachelor's in marketing management from Hillsdale College, returned to his home region here in Northwest Michigan to take the business development manager position with Springfield. He has experience in both human resources and sales.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Springfield Inc.

Team Elmer's promotes two employees

Tuesday, April 09, 2013

Max Bott and Mike Flaugher will have a few more responsibilities following their promotions at Team Elmer's, based in Traverse City.

Bott and Flaugher, who are both long-time employees of the company, have been promoted to division manager. Bott has been promoted to West Side Divisional Manager for excavation while Flaugher has been promoted to East Side Divisional Manager for excavation.

Bott, who has been with Team Elmer's excavation division for nearly 17 years, brings 25 years of site development experience to the position. He will now coordinate and optimize bidding schedules, project schedules, and equipment usage and will continue to serve as project manager to estimate and manage contracts from small residential and commercial site work to large commercial and industrial projects, state work and subdivision developments.

Flaugher has almost 19 years in with Team Elmer's and has been in the heavy construction industry for more than 27 years. He will oversee operations at the Hillman office and Alpena pit location as well as coordinate and optimize bidding schedules, project schedules, and equipment usage. He will also continue to serve as project manager.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Team Elmer's

Sagemark Consulting hires Autumn Soltysiak

Tuesday, April 09, 2013

Autumn Soltysiak has taken on a new position with Sagemark Consulting. She comes to the role as private wealth advisor from Wells Fargo Advisors, where she has been a financial advisor for the past 10 years.

Sagemark is part of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., and has offices in Traverse City and Southfield. It offers securities and insurance consulting in several states.

Soltysiak, a certified financial planner, will provide retirement, estate planning, business planning and related investment services to returning and new clients in the Traverse City area.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Sagemark Consulting

Shoreline Fruit announces new financial officer

Tuesday, April 09, 2013

Cherry product company Shoreline Fruit is making serious changes at the top lately. The fruit company announced it has a new chief financial officer, Corey Geer.

Geer will provide strategic leadership for the Traverse City-based company, overseeing accounting, finance, IT and continuous improvement initiatives. He has a degree from the University of Michigan and a background in financial services.

In January, the company appointed new CEO John Sommavilla to replace longtime leader Ken Swanson, who retired after many years in the cherry business in northern Michigan.

Shoreline combines fruit growing, fruit product manufacturing, delivery and transport, sales and works with retailers and wholesalers to offer cherry, juice, dried fruit and natural health products.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Shoreline Fruit

Mary Jo Barck is a new economic assistant for the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

The Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce recently announced that Mary Jo Barck has been named as the new economic assistant.

Barck's arrival in Traverse City comes after two decades in Sault Ste. Marie, where she worked several positions over the years with War Memorial Hospital. She worked as an executive assistant as well as director of community relations and fund development.

"We are fortunate to have someone of Mary Jo’s background and experience in this important position," says Laura Galbraith, the chamber’s vice president of administration. "She will be our main contact to CONNECT businesses with the appropriate resource when starting or growing their business through a number of programs available from the Chamber and its partners, whether assisting a business owner with tax abatements or identifying financing programs that best fit their needs."

Barck originally hails from mid-Michigan's Alma. She studied accounting at Central Michigan University and Northwestern Michigan College.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: TC Area Chamber of Commerce

Three promotions at regional bank

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Three employees were recently promoted within the ranks of The Bank of Northern Michigan.

The company, which has offices in both Traverse City and Petoskey, announced that it has promoted Linda Reynolds, Betsy Van Orman and Michele Doucette.

Reynolds is the newest private banker for the company. She was promoted from her previous position of client services manager. Doucette is now a personal banker, having earned a promotion from deposit operations clerk. Van Orman, who was the previous personal banker, was promoted to the position of client services manager.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: The Bank of Northern Michigan

Traverse Bay EDC gives $10K boost to local Great Start

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

The Great Start for Success Network will have a few more funds to keep some of their top-notch programs moving forward thanks to a grant from the Traverse Bay Economic Development Corps.

The Traverse Bay EDC recently gave a $10,000 grant to the Great Start Traverse Bay/Manistee Collaborative. The funds will be used to create a child care system that will be sustainable and practical for rural areas.

"Many of the EDC’s investments are for today’s economy," says Don Coe, the EDC board chairman, who presented the Great Start representatives with the funds. "This investment is about tomorrow’s economy."

The project’s initial phase involves identifying and assessing child care resources in the region and determining where there are gaps and needs in the system. The next phase will expand the effort into Wexford and Missaukee counties.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse Bay EDC

E-Waste drive coming to Traverse City in April

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

There's no arguing that electronic waste--or e-waste, as it's known--is a quickly-escalating problem for the environment. Thankfully, groups like Safety Net are helping make sure it doesn't all end up in a landfill. In the process, they're helping Goodwill Industries of Northern Michigan.

Safety Net announced it is holding a "Keep It Green! Keep It Clean!" drive April 17-19. They will travel to Traverse City-area businesses and pick up unwanted computers and electronics. The equipment will then be transported to Goodwill, where it will be recycled and the profits will go toward the various Goodwill programs and services.

To schedule a timeslot, please email Safety Net or call Heather Askew at 231-944-1100, ext. 112, by April 15.

Allowable donations include monitors, desktop and laptop computers, printers, scanners, hard disk drives, keyboards, mice, speakers, cords and cables, ink and toner cartridges, software (with license key), Microsoft X-box, Microsoft-branded webcams, cell phones of any type and small appliances such as coffee makers and toasters.

The proper disposal and recycling of e-waste eliminates some components from releasing lead, cadmium and mercury into soil and groundwater. The valuable scrap metals will be used to benefit Goodwill.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Safety Net

Munson Medical Center names new president

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Munson Medical Center announced it will name its new president, Alfred E. Pilong, Jr.

Coming to northern Michigan from Virginia, Pilong was chosen after a national candidate search. The healthcare system's president and CEO, Ed Ness, made the announcement. Pilong will replace Kathleen McManus, COO and executive VP of the medical center, as she prepares to retire this fall.

Ness says the two will work closely together to create a smooth transition for the center.

"This returns us to a leadership structure that has been in place successfully during most of Munson Healthcare's 28-year history. I will continue on as president and CEO of Munson Healthcare and will focus my efforts on developing a financially stable, clinically coordinated, integrated health system," he says.

Pilong was most recently president of Winchester Medical Center in Winchester, Virginia, where he also served as senior VP of Valley Health System. He holds an MBA from St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia, a master's degree in divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary and a bachelor of science degree from Rutgers University. He began his career as a pharmacist and also has taught pharmacy.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Munson Medical Center

Erin Waineo Design wins best of show

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Erin Waineo made it clear from the day she launched her own agency in 2011 that her intention was to be one of the best creative minds in the graphic arts business.

Earlier this month, Waineo was honored with the 2013 Best of Show award at the AAF West Michigan ADDY Awards.

Waineo earned the award for her design of the Cat Footwear Autumn/Winter 2013 magazine. Additionally, she was awarded two Gold ADDYs for the project.

"Erin made the project speak volumes," says Ken Czop, of Cat Footwear of Wolverine World Wide. "Her keen eye for design detail and tasteful aesthetic helped take our brand magazine to the next level."

The Cat Footwear Autumn/Winter 2013 magazine is a 160-page, full-color print publication used by Wolverine World Wide to promote their upcoming footwear line.

Waineo, who is the creative director and owner at Erin Waineo Design, competed against top agencies from Traverse City, Grand Rapids, Holland and Kalamazoo for the advertising industry’s most comprehensive competition recognizing creative excellence. As a result of the award, Waineo will now compete at the district and national levels.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Erin Waineo Design

Century 21 Northland hires four agents

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

It looks like Century 21 Northland has no intention of slowing down its growth as it recently announced the hiring of four new real estate agents to its staff.

The real estate brokerage, believed to be the fastest growing in Northern Michigan, hired Molly Buttleman, Camille Campbell, Rebecca Mann and Cherie Robinson to help meet the needs of new and existing clients at the Century 21 Northland Traverse City office.

Buttleman is no stranger to the Traverse City area, bringing with her three decades of restaurant management in the area with focus on human resources and customer satisfaction. Buttleman also has a background in custom home construction.

Campbell, who will work with both the TC office and the Elk Rapids location, has four years experience selling real estate and specializes in properties in the Chain of Lakes region.

Mann has more than six years of experience in the real estate industry. She is from Traverse City and has thorough knowledge of the Northwest Michigan region.

Robinson brings more than a decade of real estate experience to Century 21 Northland and has gained it all while buying and selling properties in northern Michigan. She specializes in residential, vacant land and commercial properties and has been a multi-million-dollar producer for several years.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Century 21 Northland

Greenlight Marketing under new ownership

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

There's a new owner over at Greenlight Martketing and the company announced it will be rebranding to create a spanking-new image for itself in 2013.

The company, which was previously co-owned by Kevin Gillespie and Karl Bastian, will now be solely owned by Gillespie.

"Though Karl and I have been friends for more than 20 years, and will remain so, I am highly motivated and eager to take on this role," says Gillespie. "Greenlight’s goal has always been to provide thoughtful strategy and original creative for our clients. I am supported by a talented staff whose focus will be just that."

Greenlight turns 10 years old this year, and in celebration Gillespie says there will be a company rebrand. Additionally, the company will also launch a fully-redesigned website and a new Facebook look.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Greenlight Marketing

Northwestern Bank has new president

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Northwestern Bank has a new president and CEO with the retirement of Harry Calcutt and the hiring of Daniel Terpsma.

The bank, which is headquartered in Traverse City and has branch offices peppered throughout the northern portion of the state, named Terpsma the new president and CEO following Calcutt's announcement in January that he was retiring. Additionally, the bank announced Terpsma has also been appointed to the board of directors.

Terpsma has more than 30 years of experience in the financial field, including more than two decades in community banking. He has previously been a regional bank president, among other high-level management positions with various financial institutions.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Northwestern Bank

Pat Garno joins Century 21 Northland

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

The Century 21 Northland real estate agency based in Traverse City has a new staffer, as Pat Garno joins its Elk Rapids office as the new office manager.

Garno is an Elk Rapids resident with many years of experience in real estate, having been in the business since 1997. Most recently she was with EXIT Realty in Elk Rapids, where she won administrator of the year in 2009 from EXIT Realty Michigan.

At Century 21, Garno will be responsible for administrative functions of the office, like listings, closings, showings, advertising and bookkeeping. Century 21 Northland, which is co-owned by Brad Platt, Jason Kudary and Julia Lilley, also recently acquired Remerica Up North Real Estate in early 2013.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Century 21 Northland

Traverse City State Bank adds Bouwens as assistant manager

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

The downtown branch of Traverse City State Bank has a new assistant manager thanks to the addition of Annie Bouwens to the staff.

Bouwens brings with her nearly four years of experience in the banking industry, having most recently spent her time as the customer service manager with another local financial institution.

Traverse City State Bank, which is locally-owned and managed, offers multiple services ranging from commercial to consumer to residential mortgages. All of these accounts, plus other services, can be discussed with Bouwens, who hails originally from Zeeland.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Smith Haughey brings on new attorney

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

The law office of Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge recently added a new attorney to help better serve its clients in Traverse City.

Kate Flewelling joined the firm's Traverse City offices earlier this month, bringing with her a focus on business and corporate law, construction law, real estate law and health law.

Her focus will be representation of businesses, individuals and health-care providers and her experience showcases a background in the area of real estate.

Flewelling is a graduate of New York University School of Law and Northwestern University. She is licensed to practice law in the state courts of Michigan, Illinois and New York.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Rehmann announces two Traverse City promotions

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

CPA, financial management and investigation firm Rehmann announced two new promotions in its Traverse City offices.

Ryan Sullivan and Matt Grigsby both have been promoted to principals at the firm.

Sullivan is currently Rehmann's director of retirement plan administration and serves on the Rehmann financial executive committee as well. He has more than 10 years of experience as a financial advisor and supervises services for more than 1,000 retirement plan clients. He earned a bachelor's degree in finance at Michigan State University.

Grigsby is in Rehmann's tax department and has been providing tax consulting and compliance services with the firm since 1998. He has expertise in federal and state taxes, particularly regarding real estate, construction, manufacturing and retailing, and also works with high-net-worth individuals. He is a member of Rehmann's real estate and construction industry groups. He earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Michigan and a master's degree in taxation from Walsh College.

Rehmann offers a full slate of financial services from 21 Midwestern offices.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Rehmann

Ozmott now working with Grand Traverse Pie Company

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Two Traverse City-based innovative businesses are partnering on a new agreement.

Ozmott is a mobile shopping app company in Traverse City. Grand Traverse Pie Company is a bakery and restaurant with locations across Michigan. Now the pie company will be among the retailers and restaurants that offer special app-based deals through Ozmott.

The app development company has been looking for ways to expand its user base and coverage across the state, so Grand Traverse Pie Co., with its locations in Lansing, Okemos, East Lansing and Traverse City, was a good fit.

Users of Ozmott's free shopping app also can access offers in 28 other states besides Michigan. The app, which links in-store offers to loyalty rewards, is available on Apple and Android devices, and was introduced nine months ago.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ozmott

Northwest arts organizations get grants

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs announced more than 300 grants statewide, and many northwest Michigan agencies will be among those benefiting.

To receive the grants, 401 organizations applied, asking for $8.9 million. Overall, $5.7 million was granted statewide from the Program for Operational and Projects Support, the Capital Improvement Program, the Regional Regranting program and the Services to the Field program.

In Benzie County, the Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts got $40,500 while the Michigan Legacy Art Park got $19,000.

In Charlevoix County, the Raven Hill Discovery Center received $15,000, as did the Ludington Area Arts Council in Mason County and the Gaylord Area Council for the Arts in Otsego County.

In Emmet County, the Bay View Music Festival got $11,250; the Blissfest Music Organization got $48,750; the Crooked Tree Arts Council, Inc. got $67,500; the Harbor Springs Area Historical Society got $6,000 and Voices Without Borders got $10,455.

In Leelanau County, the Glen Arbor Art Association got $4,500 and the Leelanau Community Cultural Center got $19,000.

Grand Traverse County was far from left out, with the Great Lakes Children's Museum getting $17,000; the History Center of Traverse City getting $15,000; the Interlochen Center for the Arts getting $82,500; The Music House getting $15,000; Northwestern Michigan College's Dennos Museum getting $25,500, the Old Town Playhouse getting $15,000; Rotary Charities of Traverse City getting $42,920; and the Traverse Symphony Orchestra getting $5,000.

In total, the grants support organizations with 10,718 full time employees and an additional 54,868 contracted Michigan artists. The programs or exhibits offered will be attended by about 50 million people, about 10 million of which are youth.

"Once again we are grateful for the support this sector has received from Gov. Rick Snyder and the legislature and for their confidence in MCACA," said MCACA Chairman Drew Buchholz. "Their confidence in MCACA allows us to directly support organizations whose work does so much to enhance Michigan's image, improve education, stimulate cultural tourism, and strengthen communities statewide by impacting local economies and creating a better quality of life. This is truly an amazing sector."

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs

Organik Consulting sees growth

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Three new, big clients are on board at Organik Consulting Growth Marketing, which in turn, is spurring growth at the company, which has offices in Traverse City, Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor.

Organik announced it is launching marketing and engagement campaigns for Michigan State University, Online Tech and DPT Solutions.

"We think it's pretty fabulous that we are able to live and work in Traverse City and work with clients of this caliber," says Organik's creative director, Patty Fabian. "It just proves the point that global communication is a reality and digital engagement with meaningful content is king."

For MSU, the marketing consultants will develop engagement tools like a website, videos and digital marketing to help the university with a new development campaign to build support from alumni, friends, the public and other stakeholders.

At Ann Arbor-based Online Tech, Organik will help the data management firm take its branding national in preparation for a Midwestern expansion.

DPT Solutions in Grand Rapids is a business performance consulting firm. Organik started out working on marketing strategy and messaging for the firm, and now will help build engagement with web tools, content and digital marketing.

Organik started up in Grand Rapids, and has expanded this year into Lansing, southeast Michigan and Traverse City, to help their clients grow statewide.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Organik Consulting Growth Marketing

TC State Bank promotes Strassburger

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

At Traverse City State Bank, a longtime mortgage professional is adding the title of VP to his job description.

Steve Strassburger will now be assistant VP of mortgages at the bank. He's been handling mortgages for 20 years, with consistently effective and productive results, according to the bank's announcement.

Bank officials praised Strassburger's loyalty and ingenuity for problem-solving, and said he has excellent long-term referral relationships with local realtors.

Traverse City State Bank provides a full range of banking and mortgage services across northwest Michigan, with its headquarters in Traverse City.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

New employee at Northwestern Bank

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Mack Beers is the newest VP at Northwestern Bank, according to a recent announcement from the bank.

Beers' title will be VP of credit administration in the bank's commercial lending department. With almost 40 years of experience in banking, Beers comes to Northwestern Bank from another northern Michigan financial institution.

He is a Traverse City native and current resident, and serves on the boards of Rotary Charities and Home Stretch.

Northwestern Bank is based in Traverse City and has 28 offices in northwest Michigan.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Northwestern Bank

Lindsay Figley hired at Saks Wellness Center

Tuesday, December 04, 2012

If you're looking for a new chiropractor or are tired of not being able to get into one of the other offices in the area, you should get in touch with Dr. Lindsay Figley, the newest addition to the staff at the Saks Wellness Center.

Figley, who is originally from Roscommon, has a degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic. Prior to taking the position with the Saks Wellness Center, Figley practiced in Ireland.

Figley is currently accepting new patients and appointments. She is available at the Saks Wellness Center, which is located at 1447 S. Ostego Avenue in Gaylord.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Saks Wellness Center

Jeff Rademacher newest loan officer at Traverse City State Bank

Tuesday, December 04, 2012

If you're stopping in at Traverse City State Bank, take a moment and welcome Jeff Rademacher to the team.

Rademacher recently joined the ranks of TC State Bank in the position of commercial loan officer. He has 11 years of commercial banking experience, having previously held the positions of credit analyst and loan officer.

Rademacher earned a bachelor's degree in finance and accounting from Western Michigan University before moving back to the area where he was raised. In his spare time, Rademacher is a volunteer basketball coach.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Ozmott hires new director of marketing

Tuesday, December 04, 2012

Kristin Fehrman recently joined the staff of Ozmott as the new director of marketing and will focus on all of the Internet marketing efforts, community management and press, all while maintaining communication with users of the Northern Michigan-based shopping application.

Fehrman holds a bachelor's degree in entrepreneurship and marketing from Central Michigan Unviersity and previously worked with Yelp.com in sales and recruiting. She spent the past five years working with small businesses on social media strategy, event planning, product launches and freelance writing.

"I am thrilled to be a part of such an innovative team," says Fehrman. "I never would have imagined I would find a tech-related position in my hometown of Traverse City--but it’s great being back and helping to grow the mobile marketing community in Northern Michigan and beyond."

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ozmott

USDA grant to help ramp up local foods in school districts

Tuesday, December 04, 2012

The Michigan Land Use Institute has long been a big backer of the idea that local food should be served in local schools. It seems that the USDA agrees with the organization, as they just gave them a two-year, $100,000 grand to help expand the local Farm to School program.

The grant allows MLUI to partner with eight local districts and area farmers to invest in cold storage and processing equipment to scale up local food procurement by the schools. It also allows MLUI to expand the farm to school activities that it currently operates in six schools.

The grant is going to make it easier for local schools to serve fruits and vegetables that are produced by local farmer across northern Michigan. The result will help local agriculture while teaching kids the importance of local food and healthy eating habits.

Additionally, food service directors have identified a need for washed, dried and bagged salad greens and cut vegetables, but the many farms in the region that typically grow vegetables don’t have the capacity or infrastructure to meet the needs of the region’s schools. The grant will help secure new, centrally located equipment for commercial-scale preparation, making it possible and more cost-effective for growers to scale up vegetable production to benefit schools.

The MLUI grant is one of 68 awarded by the USDA to organizations in 37 states and Washington, D.C., to connect schools with local agricultural producers. These are the first USDA Farm to School grants.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michigan Land Use Institute

Four northwest Michigan towns get microgrants for placemaking

Tuesday, November 06, 2012

Placemaking can cover a variety of initiatives and strategies, from the super-scaled to the very small. Some of those on the latter end of the spectrum are receiving micro-grants from the Northwest Michigan Council of Goverments locally.

Four placemaking projects are getting grants of $1,500 each in Boyne City, Petoskey, Manistee and Lake City. The grants, available in a competitive format to municipalities and governments in Charlevoix, Emmet, Manistee and Missaukee counties, are specifically to help achieve placemaking goals.

"The goal for these placemaking micro-grants is to assist local efforts to enhance their communities' public spaces and to begin to implement them," says Matt McCauley, NWMCOG director of regional planning and community development. "Often it is the small ideas that grow from the community that create interesting usable public places."

Boyne City will use its grant to install bicycle racks that also serve as public art in eight locations in the city's downtown, helping it be more bicycle-friendly and enhance the downtown.

In Petoskey, the money will help wayfinding efforts in the Bear River Valley Recreation Area, including mapping, brochures, kiosk construction, signage, and a cell phone interpretive tour.

The City of Manistee Downtown Development Association will use its grant on a signage and wayfinding project for the U.S. 31 and River Street intersection, which is designed to help U.S. 31 motorists navigate Manistee's historic commercial district.

In Lake City, the grant was also to the downtown development association, which will put it toward wayfinding for the new, permanent city dock. New signs will help dock users connect to the downtown district and associated businesses.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Matt McCauley, Northwest Michigan Council of Governments

Traverse City State Bank adds employee to mortgage department

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Karen Taylor is the newest addition to the Traverse City State Bank family as she was recently hired as an associate vice president in the company's residential mortgage department.

Taylor is pretty familiar with the financial scene, having more than 30 years experience in the banking industry. She was most recently employed at a commercial bank in Alma and comes to Traverse City State Bank as an authority on residential mortgage options and a specialist at proving individualized homeowner solutions.

Taylor took the position with Traverse City State Bank after moving to Benzie County from the Mid Michigan area.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Paperworks Studio expands, buys paper store

Tuesday, October 09, 2012

Paperworks Studio is always impressive to us, with its multiple missions of recycling materials like denim, plants, and even coffee beans to make hand-made cards created by artists with special needs or disabilities. It's hard to imagine a way in which it could get more awesome, unless it was to get bigger and reach more people.

Luckily, that's just what's happening in a recent expansion by the Goodwill-supported nonprofit in Traverse City. Local business Paper and Presents, which has specialized in custom invitations and other specialty paper goods, has been bought by Paperworks Studio.

The new addition includes equipment and software that will allow artists to emboss, die-cut, and print on even more specialty papers, enabling the studio to do more work in-house and expand its custom card offerings, especially into wedding invitations.

That's important with other recent expansion news, including large orders from companies like Whole Foods, and the plans Paperworks Studio has for a new storefront at its Aero Park Drive location in Traverse City.

Paper and Presents owner Cynthia Russell has officially retired with the purchase, but will be volunteering her time with Paperworks now instead, heading up its expansion into the wedding and invitation business.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Paperworks Studio

TC State Bank promotes four

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

We're always thrilled to announce promotions at local companies, but we have to admit we were a little surprised when Traverse City State Bank recently announced the financial institution had recently promoted four employees.

The bank last week announced that it has promoted Larry Kennedy to senior vice president of special assets, Kelly Schramski and John Galbraith to commercial loan officer positions and Jackie Stallman to credit officer.

Kennedy's career in banking spans 43 years, in all facets of banking and financial management, and he has held leadership roles in commercial lending throughout his career. After a brief attempt at retiring, he joined Traverse City State Bank in 2009 to head up the bank’s new special asset group. He attended the University of Michigan and graduated with a bachelor of science in administration.

Galbraith has been with TCSB for one year as a successful residential mortgage originator. He has nine years of experience in commercial lending and six years experience of running a successful business. He is a graduate of Central Michigan University (undergraduate) and Spring Arbor University (graduate).

Stallman originally joined TCSB in 2005. She has held the position of credit analyst and served as coordinator for the board of directors and committee loan presentations. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration in finance from Davenport University.

Schramski joined TCSB with over five years of experience in personal banking and business development and has excelled as a commercial loan portfolio manager. She is an alumnus of Michigan State University.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Grand Traverse Industries hires new coordinator

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Thomas Hoxsie will be taking over responsibilities as the coordinator of Grand Traverse Industries' Local Interpreter Services Network Program.

Hoxie was recently announced as the new coordinator by Grand Traverse Industries to replace Leanne Baumeler, who held the position for seven years. Hoxsie is no stranger to the program. The lifelong northern Michigan resident has been an interpreter in the program for years.

The program that Hoxsie will coordinate helps bridge a gap between individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing with a wide variety of services at many local businesses, schools, agencies, medical and legal offices offer. The program provides interpreter services in 20 counties in northern Michigan and many counties in the Upper Peninsula.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Steve Perdue, Grand Traverse Industries

Adams to be VP at Northwestern Bank

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Perry Adams will take on the title of VP and investment officer at Northwestern Bank, headquartered in Traverse City.

Adams joins the bank's investments, trust and retirement services area with more than 20 years of trust and investment experience. He recently spent ten years as regional manager for the trust department of another Traverse City bank.

He has a bachelor's degree in business administration from Ferris State College, and a master's degree in finance from Walsh College.

Adams' other community involvements include serving as a board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan and on the finance committee of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation. He has volunteered with the Father Fred Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, as a board member of the Grand Traverse Area Sport Fishing Association, and as president and board member of the Rotary Club of Traverse Bay Twilight.

Northwestern Bank was founded in 1955, and now is the largest independent bank in northwest Michigan, with 28 offices throughout the region.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Perry Adams, Northwestern Bank

Floor Covering Brokers hires Hakly

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Floor Covering Brokers in Traverse City has added sales associate Justin Hakly to its staff this September.

Hakly has been in the flooring business for more than 30 years, and previously has managed flooring stores in Colorado. He's also worked with various flooring distributors and brings years of product knowledge and experience to help customers with design and selection.

The addition of Hakly to the team at Floor Covering Brokers brings the number of flooring and blinds experts at the company to ten.

He is available for design and consultation of all types of flooring and window treatments.

The largest privately owned floor covering, tile and window treatments installer in northwest Michigan, Floor Covering Brokers also has a flooring outlet location where customers can see the largest selection of in-stock flooring in the region.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Floor Covering Brokers

Northwestern Michigan College offers new audio tech degree

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

If you've always wanted a career in the music industry, a new degree offered at Northwestern Michigan College might just be perfect for you.

It's an 18-month, fast-track program that results in an associate's degree in audio technology, which will train students to be studio engineers, recording engineers, composers and other music careers, according to NMU music program director Jeff Cobb.

The program takes four semesters, including summer, and includes two dozen new courses and some existing courses, combined to make one comprehensive educational program that includes hands-on experience running sound production at NMC's Milliken Auditorium. Professional certification at various levels is available at the end of the course, and students also will have the opportunity to become certified on specific platforms, like Apple.

It's valuable for those looking for a sound engineering job or even musicians who want to record their own music, says Cobb.

"The industry has really changed. It's gone from an old model of several big corporations creating all the music to musicians creating, recording and producing music in their own project studio. You don't have to live in LA or New York anymore. The technology allows you to do it all in your home studio. We're going to be creating a new niche in the audio technology training market," he says.

Along with the new degree, NMC is reinstating its second year slate of music major courses, which had been on hiatus, for those pursuing a bachelor's degree.

"Our students are going to be musicians and technically savvy," he said. "They're getting a foundation in music, true music training, on top of all that technology training."

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Jeff Cobb, Northwestern Michigan College

Swan Valley Marina purchased

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Swan Valley Marina is no longer for sale, and the business is already making it clear that not only will they be back in full swing come the boating season next year, but they are offering storage services this winter as well.

The East Jordan-based company, which was listed for sale recently, was purchased in full by Kelly Robertson. She purchased the company from her former husband, Geoff Britt, and is the sole owner of Swan Valley Marina.

The marina is offering winter storage to anyone interested in the service, and is expected to resume full operations when the boating season begins again in 2013.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kelly Robertson, Swan Valley Marina

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trails gets large grant

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is moving forward with a $1.62 million grant from the federal Department of Transportation.

The grant comes from the department's Public Lands Highway Discretionary program, and will be used to build 3.17 miles of the trail, starting at Port Oneida Road and ending at Leelanau County Road 669 (also known as Bohemian Road).

The multi-use trail will provide a non-motorized pathway for walkers, hikers, cyclists, and other alternatives to motorized transportation, parallel to M22 and M109 for a total of 27 miles through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It also will connect the national lakeshore's main points with Glen Arbor and Empire.

"The trail partners and supporters are very thankful for this grant award to continue towards expanding the trail," says Patty O'Donnell, project manager for the heritage trail. "The award recognizes that the SBHT will provide a meaningful transportation alternative for residents and visitors, as well as an outstanding recreational opportunity for all users, that is being demonstrated on the first completed section from the National Lakeshore's Dune Climb to Glen Arbor."

The grant will extend that existing trail a few more miles, connecting it to more of the park and allowing visitors and residents to travel farther on the hard-surfaced trail.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Patty O'Donnell, Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

Grand Traverse Resort completes multiple projects, renovation

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

If you've thought there was something different lately about Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, you were right. The 900-acre resort in Acme just finished up renovations on all six stories of its guest rooms.

That makes 237 newly-refurbished rooms throughout the hotel. The updates included new carpet, bedding, furniture, 37-inch flatscreen HD TVs, new phones, iPod docking stations and digital in-room heating and cooling controls. The resort also added fire-suppression sprinklers in all guest rooms and service areas, which were needed because the hotel was originally built in 1980, before local codes required extensive sprinkler systems. To top all that off (bad pun, sorry) the hotel got a new 21,015-square-foot roof complete with new flashing.

The tower part of the resort and its 186 guest rooms also got updates in the form of in-room technology, new telephones and flatscreen HD TVs.

That's not even all: the resort has ticked off several multi-year infrastructure projects from its list recently.

Throughout 2011 and 2012, Grand Traverse Resort was upgrading its main parking lot for tower and hotel guest parking, as well as its service vehicle parking lot. Both were completely repaved with asphalt, new concrete curbs were installed, and traffic routing and sidewalks were updated. Landscaping and a lighted shuttle and bus stop pavilion completed the renovations.

Anyone approaching the resort notices the 17-story soaring tower topped off by the glass-roofed Aerie Restaurant and Lounge. Those glass panels, 350 in all, were resealed, with a new gutter system being installed.

Other upgrades are harder to see but have no less impact: the resort had more than three miles of new underground fiber-optic cables installed to its clubhouse and six condominium complexes, expanding bandwidth and improving high-speed wifi Internet access, with the addition of 40 new Internet access points. The resort's cable TV system also saw improvements, adding up to 65 HD channels for guests to enjoy. To power all the new technology, Consumers Energy replaced the old main power cable to the hotel.

A few more major improvements also came on board in 2012. Dylan's Candy Bar Candy Café opened in the resort's shopping gallery, a complement to the Dylan's Candy Bar store which opened two years ago. The business center and cyber café was renovated with new Steelcase furniture and a contemporary design, and the grand lobby got new furnishings as well.

Guests who enjoy outdoor recreation and golf will be happy to hear the resort built a new permanent restroom facility near the outdoor tennis courts, and added new golf course and grounds maintenance equipment including 32 sets of new Cobra golf clubs.

Finally, the list of updates can be rounded off with two new banquet trucks for catering and food transport; a new 14-passenger shuttle bus and a nine-passenger shuttle van; elevator upgrades; and new furnishings, fixtures and equipment throughout the resort.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: J. Michael D'Agostino, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

New app makes it easy to carry wine country in your pocket

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Interested in wine country in Northwest Michigan? Well, you may want to get your iPhone interested, too, with the new Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association's LP Wines app.

The app is designed to help give folks access to winery information, websites and maps and even has listings for making a trip to the peninsula a complete one with lodgings, restaurants, galleries, limos, specialty shops and area information. In addition, there's even an event listing and new from wine country, as well as special offerings from LPVA wineries.

"It's like a trail map in your pocket," explains LPVA director Andrew McFarlane. "The gorgeous hills and back roads of the Leelanau Peninsula offer beautiful scenery, but they can make it a little hard to navigate. Thankfully, our app will help you find new routes from winery to winery as you explore all that Leelanau has to offer. Our programmer Scott Simons has really done a great job in taking our very popular trail map to a whole new level."

Android and other smart phone users don't despair: lpwines.com has recently been upgraded to be one of the most mobile friendly sites out there, and plans are in the works to develop a version for Android as well.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Andrew McFarlane, LPVA

Rotate Black gets approval to proceed from gaming commission

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Rotate Black, a company headquartered in Petoskey, recently found out it's plans for a four-star casino and resort in Gulfport, Miss. Got the go-ahead approval from the Mississippi Gaming Commission recently.

The company's project is expected to feature over 100,000 square feet of gaming and entertainment space as well as a 205-room hotel.

Folks visiting the gaming area will find 1,188 slots, 26 game tables, a steakhouse, a water-view bar, exterior decking, a center bar, a buffet and a café. The hotel features four-star amenities like a library, spa services and a waterfront pool with a swim-up bar.

"We're thrilled with the outcome of today's meeting and with thorough process of the commission," says Dual Cooper, the president of Rotate Black. "This resort will be one of the finest on the Gulf Coast and a huge draw for the city of Gulfport."

The resort will be located on a 9.5-acre property directly on the recently renovated Bert Jones Yacht Basin and adjacent to the new waterfront Harbor Square Park with its pavilions, green space and art and entertainment facilities.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Dual Cooper, Rotate Black

Spirals comfortable in its new location in TC

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

If you're looking for Spirals in Traverse City and recently found yourself standing outside of its old location, don't worry because all you have to do is head over to 123 East Front Street to find it.

Spirals made the move to the new location earlier this year and took over the former home of Bon Fitte lingerie. The store continues to carry affordable and vintage styles as well as independent fashion designer lines. What's more is Spirals has expanded its made-in-America and Michigan-made products as well as Michigan and U.S.A. designed lines.

The owner of the store, Mary Herzog, will be more than happy to help anyone stopping in find just what it is they are looking for.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Spirals

Grand Traverse Radiologists add new members to team

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

When it comes to healthcare, it's always great to know that the practices you visit look to keep their numbers swelled with the best staff available.

That's why the Grand Traverse Radiologists, located in Traverse City, didn't hesitate to hire on musculoskeletal specialist Patrick Gartland, M. D.

Gartland is a native of the area and is returning home to work with the Grand Traverse Radiologists team. He is a graduate of the Medical College of Wisconsin and also completed his residency and a fellowship program in our neighboring state and at the same medical college.

He is a board-certified radiologist and specializes in diagnostic and musculoskeletal radiology.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Grand Traverse Radiologists

Altus Brands gets a little help from Angel investment

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Sometimes you need a little help from the angels in your life in order to accomplish some of the tasks that are set out before you.

That was the case with Altus Brands and the help it received from Northern Michigan Angels and the BlueWater Angels. Those angels made a $170,000 investment into Altus Brands, located in Traverse City, which allowed the company to purchase Extreme Dimension Wildlife Calls, a leading innovator in the electronic game call industry.

"We are fortunate to have connected with Brian Breneman, Charles Ricci and Gary Lemanski of Altus Brands to put this deal together," says Ron Hurd of Northern Michigan Angels. "These innovative founders are taking a new approach to the market and one we expect will be very successful. Their knowledge and approach helps other entrepreneurs and supports the outdoor enthusiast’s lifestyle which is integrated into the lives of many here in northern Michigan."

Extreme Dimension Wildlife Calls will be relocated to Traverse City.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ron Hurd, Northern Michigan Angels

Two promotions in ranks of local bank

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Add two more names to the list of folks being promoted within the ranks of Northwestern Bank.

Erin Bratschi and Janice Beyer were recently announced as being promoted in the financial institution, based in Traverse City. Bratschi has been named an assistant manager in the Garfield office while Beyer is now a trust office and portfolio manager.

Bratschi joined Northwestern Bank in 2008 as a personal banker at their Traverse City West Bay office. She earned her bachelors of business administration from Grand Valley State University.

Beyer joined Northwestern in 2010 and has 18 years of banking and investment experience. She earned her bachelor of science in business administration from Central Michigan University and is currently a candidate for the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Prior to joining Northwestern, she worked at several investment firms.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Northwestern Bank

Michigan-made, English-inspired accessories line launched by local garden center

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Want to spruce up your garden gear with Michigan-made accessories that don't look like everyone else's garden tools? Well, head on over to Lake Leelanau and stop by Jack of the Green.

There you can find custom-designed garden accessories, including kneeler pads, aprons, tarps and a flower tote. All of the products are constructed of durable canvas and cotton.

Products at Jack of the Green are based on traditional English garden goods not readily available in the United States.

Owner Tracy John Brookfield was a hobby gardener in his hometown of Deal, England for 20 years before parlaying this passion into a career in Lake Leelanau more than 15 years ago. He still provides the garden and landscape design services that were the impetus for Jack of the Green.

The store is located at 461 Main Street and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Tracy John Brookfield, Jack of the Green

Dennos Museum has several upcoming exhibits

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

If you're looking for a quieter place than the Traverse City Film Festival to enjoy some world-class art this summer, the Dennos Museum Center at Northwestern Michigan College has some stunning exhibitions on display until fall.

Running until Sept. 16 are two glass art exhibits, "Evolution/Revolution: 50 Years of American Studio Glass," and "Howard Ben Tré: The Lightness of Being – New Sculpture."

The Evolution/Revolution exhibit traces the growth of glass art from the 1960s to now, with more than 50 selected works representing each decade. Among the artists whose works will be shown are Dominick Labino, one of the earliest glass artists; Dale Chihuly, one of the most famous studio glass artists; Mary Shaffer, who pioneered new glass techniques, and some works on loan from Royal Oak's Habatat Galleries, as well as from the Dennos collection and private collections.

Howard Ben Tre's works in cast glass and bronze will form a companion exhibit, showcasing Ben Tre's more recent works, which reference architectural forms like stupas, spire, minarets and obelisks. It is presented as part of a nationwide effort to exhibit glass art in the fiftieth anniversary year of the art in the U.S.

“I first encountered the work of Howard Ben Tré in the early 70s when visiting Habatat Galleries, then on Ford Road in Dearborn, Michigan,” says Gene Jenneman, director of the Dennos Museum Center. “There I saw works by major artists such as Dale Chihuly and Harvey Littleton who were emerging in this new medium of studio glass, exploring it with fluid forms and color. Amongst this group was an artist who was different. His work, instead of being blown and formed, was cast in a mold, was heavy in appearance and industrial in character. Yet it was filled with an internal glow from the captured light within it. Often surrounding that glow was the shell of patinated metal that encased portions of the forms. This work was sculpture made from a seemingly fragile medium that was solid, having the integrity of bronze or other cast metal."

The Dennos Museum Center also will exhibit the quilt art of Katie Pasquini Masopust, until Oct. 7. Masopust's background as a painter led her to dimensional quilt work of exceptional quality and contemporary art sensibility. She evokes landscape and abstract paintings with her use of fine fabrics and creative stitching techniques.

Masopust also is a teacher and author, and will present a lecture on art quilts Oct. 3, followed by a two-day surface design workshop Oct. 4 and 5 at the Dennos. On Oct. 6, she will lead a quilting workshop focusing on ghost layers and color washes at the Charlevoix Library. Register online with the Dennos Museum Center.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Gene Jenneman, Dennos Museum Center

Traverse City Area Chamber helps change archaic trucking law

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Isn't it great to know that your local chamber of commerce really does want to help your business grow and succeed? That's the case over at Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce, which recently had a hand in helping get Senate Bill SB582 in front of our senators and, as of early July, passed into law.

For the Chamber this initiative all started with an e-mail from a member and a phone call that asked for help getting an archaic law about semi-trucks and trailers changed.

You see, The laws in Michigan on the size of the semi-trucks and trailers did not match other states and Canada. Michigan's law was outdated to today’s technology and competitive market. Some local businesses--Rec Boat Holdings, Star Truck Rentals, and Cherry Growers--also pointed out that changing the law would reduce transportation costs and would put fewer semi-trucks on the road.

The chamber went to work contacting local representatives until the bill was sponsored by Senator Tom Casperson and, eventually, signed into law by the Lt. Governor.

"The Chamber works to be an indispensable asset for business; this is a prime example of that work in action. When we get a call from an investor that identifies a barrier, it becomes a high priority and we’re pleased with the result of this call," says Doug DeYoung, Vice President of Government Relations and Business Development for the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce.

Now Rec Boat Holdings, Star Truck Rentals and Cherry Growers will be able to transport more goods and services and save on transportation costs. There is a 15%-20% reduction in costs for moving goods to market. According to the chamber of commerce, the general public will also benefit by now having close to 15% less semi-truck traffic on the roads.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Doug DeYoung, Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce

New agriculture partnership designed to help farm-related businesses

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

A new partnership has been created to better help farmers and other agricultural business owners to connect with resources to improve or start new businesses.

The Northwest Michigan Regional Agriculture Business Services Partnership is made up of an agriculture innovation counselor, an agriculture business counselor, and the Northwest Michigan Agriculture and Food System Sector Alliance.

"The Regional Agriculture Business Partnership will give farmers and agriculture business owners easy access to information and resources they can use to improve their business, develop new products, or start a new business," says Elaine Wood, CEO of Northwest Michigan Council of Governments.

The partnership will help farmers and farm-related businesses by assisting with product development, marketing, business plans, financing, education and training, and farm production and distribution.

The members of the partnership are NWMCOG, Michigan State University Extension, the MSU Product Center and the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center, with support from the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and MSU Extension.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Elaine Wood, Northwest Michigan Council of Governments

Michigan Nature Association announces 60th anniversary tour

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

It's been 60 years since the Michigan Nature Association first formed and this year they're looking to celebrate by hosting a special tour of Michigan: The 60th Anniversary MNA Odyssey Tour.

The MNA was created to protect rare, threatened and endangered specieis and natural communities across Michigan. To help show what has been accomplished in that time, the MNA Odyssey will visit 20 of the finest sanctuaries in the state, chosen for their unique features, educational value and accessibility to the public.

There will be one today at the Newaygo Prairie Nature Sanctuary and one tomorrow at the Genevieve Casey Nature Sanctuary.

Three of the upcoming locations are in the Upper Peninsula. The first will be Sept. 25 at Twin Waterfalls Memorial in Munising and the next two will be on the Keweenaw Peninsula with a Sept. 29 stop at Estivant Pines near Copper Harbor and a Sept. 30 visit to Black Creek near Calumet.

Dave Wendling, a former trustee for the MNA, will help lead tours at each of the 20 and give talks about its unique features.

"Everyone should have the opportunity to see these natural treasures at least once in a lifetime, and this is my chance to help make it happen," Wendling says.

For more information about the Odyssey or the tours, visit this website.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Dave Wendling, Michigan Nature Association

Five new technical staffers hired at Safety Net

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Safety Net, a company headquartered in Traverse City, recently announced that it has hired five full-time technical staffers to join its ranks.

The company brought in Mike Fitzgerald as a Network Design Associate and Leathel Grody as a Network Administrator in their local office and hired three others in their Brighton office to help with on-site services in Southeast Michigan.

Fitzgerald is a graduate of Northwest Michigan College and has a bachelor's degree from Ferris State University. He has several high-level certifications and spent 15 yeas in the U.S. Army followed up by network design work.

Grody most recently was a network engineer for National Vacuum and worked 10 years prior to that doing large systems deployments through HP and EDS for companies such as Dow and Weyerhaeuser. He is also a NMU grad and pursuing a degree from Ferris State University.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Safety Net

Northwestern Bank announces three promotions

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Northwestern Bank announced it has promoted three employees to the position of assistant vice president and financial advisor.

Craig Leppien, Chris Bousson and Courtney Miller are the newly promoted finance advisors, and all will be working in investments, trusts and retirement services for the bank.

Leppien joined Northwestern Bank in 2008 and has a background in financial advising. He works with the bank's 401(k) team on plan design, administration and employee enrollment. He has a bachelor's degree in finance from Michigan State University and is licensed in securities.

Bousson came to Northwestern Bank in 2010, with nearly 10 years of banking and investment experience. He works with investment clients in Ludington, Manistee, Cadillac and Houghton Lake, and is a Ludington resident. He has a bachelor's degree in finance from Western Michigan University and also is licensed in securities.

Miller, from Petoskey, joined Northwestern's investment, trust and retirement services team in 2009, coming from a background in investment management. She has a bachelor's degree from William Smith College in New York, is a certified financial planner and is licensed in securities. She gives her northern Michigan investment clients the benefit of more than 10 years in the financial industry.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Northwestern Bank

Better mobile Internet coverage for Traverse City

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

More mobile Internet coverage is coming to Traverse City soon thanks to AT&T's latest announcement. The communications company says they will enhance Internet on cell sites all over the Midwest, including one in Traverse City, due to increasing demand for advanced mobile devices and operations.

The upgrade should make Traverse City AT&T users able to download, surf and use Internet applications faster.

"Our goal is for our customers to have an extraordinary experience. As part of the Traverse City community, we're always looking for new opportunities to provide enhanced coverage, and our investment in the local wireless network is just one way we're accomplishing that," says Brian Ducharme, VP and general manager for AT&T Michigan and Indiana.

AT&T provides Internet connection for cell phones and smartphones through cell towers and a national wi-fi network. Consumers with questions about coverage in Michigan can check online at the AT&T coverage viewer site.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Brian Ducharme, AT&T Michigan and Indiana

Local artist's work being used by spice company

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

The Suttons Bay Trading Company, a local spice-blending company located in Northwest Michigan, knows the value of finding ways to keep their business local--especially when it comes to finding great artists.

The company recently announced the completion of a commissioned piece by local area artist Glenn Wolff, which will be used in future marketing efforts. Suttons Bay Trading Company selected Wolff, a popular TC-based graphic artist, after considerable review of the local artistic community.

"Twelve years ago when we started our firm in Fort Wayne, Indiana we considered using Glenn for some illustration work to help establish a Northern Michigan theme," says Kim Pontius, the co-owner of the company along with his wife, Karen. "Moving here and getting to know him personally and having the opportunity to review more of his work really helped us decide this was a great way to promote our company and the Suttons Bay area."

The first piece is based on a fictional character, a spice trader who leaves the Old World for the New World. Several more pieces will develop as the company builds the story, which is based on a novel being developed for children currently being written by Pontius. Future illustrations by Wolff will be used not only for the book but will also begin to appear in all of the companies marketing and branding materials messages and even on their labeling designs.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kim Pontius, Suttons Bay Trading Company

Two new hires at Munson Health Care

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Munson Medical Center in Traverse City has a new VP of operations, as well as a new physician who specializes in physical rehabilitation.

The new VP of operations is Derk Pronger, a Traverse City native and graduate of Northwestern Michigan College. He has served in several administrative positions at Beaumont Health System, most recently as the VP of surgical and ancillary services in Troy, Michigan.

"Derk will provide leadership for our clinical services to include behavioral health, laboratory, oncology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, radiology and surgical services areas among others," says Kathleen McManus, executive VP and COO of Munson Medical Center. "He has great experience in health care and a foundation in northern Michigan. We didn't have to convince him about the beauty of living in the area."

Pronger will fill the position vacated in 2011 by senior VP Mark Anthony, who is now in a senior leadership role in a Kalamazoo hospital.

He has roots in Michigan and the Traverse City area; he received his master's degree in health services administration from University of Detroit Mercy, a bachelor's degree in accounting from Purdue University and an associate's degree from NMC. Besides that, his mother was a nurse at Munson and instructor at NMC, and his father was the Traverse City post commander for the Michigan State Police for many years.

The other new addition to the Munson staff is Dr. Tracy Riddle, who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation. She will practice at Neuromuscular and Rehabilitation Associates at 3988 West Royal Drive in Traverse City. She is accepting new patients.

Riddle graduated from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in East Lansing, and completed a residency at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, and a fellowship in interventional spinal injections and electrodiagnostic medicine at Lansing Orthopedics.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kathleen McManus, Munson Medical Center

Living Light Massage and Wellness Center expands staff with two hires

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Living Light Massage and Wellness Center is a great example of how local businesses can grow to meet the demand of their customers.

The Traverse City-based business, located right downtown at 134 West State Street, is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. and offers six treatment rooms. But that just wasn't enough and their clientele demanded more access to more qualified massage therapists.

Living Light Massage responded, hiring Christoper Leeder and Brittany Wildfong to their team of 15 certified and qualified massage therapists.

Leeder specializes in deep tissue, sports, relaxation, hot stone and pregnancy massage and is a graduate of Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences. He has five years experience in the industry.

Widlfong is a graduate of the Scherer Institute of Natural Healing and is nationally certified. She specializes in relaxation, deep tissue, hot stone and pregnancy massages as well as Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy. She is also a certified yoga instructor.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Living Light Massage and Wellness Center

Oryana wants to teach you how to preserve your food

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Preserving foods has been a way of life in the rural parts of Michigan for a very long time. It's not uncommon to this day to find someone who cans their own food or uses a freezer to the best of its abilities.

Oryana Natural Foods Market recognizes that while there are plenty of people who practice these kinds of preservation, there are many out there who would like to but just don't know how. That's why Oryana has decided to offer up food preservation classes in July.

The classes are two hours each and are $10 apiece or $20 for all three of them. The class sizes are limited, so registration is highly suggested by calling Sandi at 947-0191.

The classes, which will be held at the Michigan State University Extension Services Office at 520 West Front Street, Suite A in Traverse City, will be Canning High Acid Foods Using a Water-Bath Canner (July 17, 6-8 p.m.), Canning Low Acid Foods Using a Pressure Canner (July 24, 6-8 p.m.) and Freezing and Drying Foods (July 31, 6-8 p.m.).

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Oryana Natural Foods Market

Grand Traverse Resort has beach, wine events planned for summer

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

It's not as if it's ever OK to say you're bored in Traverse City during the summer, but if you're leaning in that direction, the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is launching two series of summer events to entertain, wine and dine visitors and residents alike, so it certainly seems like the right time to take a stay-at-home vacation where you don't have to clean, cook, or even find your own entertainment.

The hotel and spa is kicking off Beach Week from June 27 to July 5, which will be sponsored by Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, and Pepsi, and is open to resort guests at special overnight Beach Week rates ($149-$189). The week takes full advantage of the resort's location on East Grand Traverse Bay and its Shores Beach Club, which will host summer activities like a beach volleyball tournament, evening bonfires with live music, kayak races, a five-kilometer fun run, summer grilling and refreshments, beach-inspired movies, and a ton of kids' games. Giveaways are also planned including Detroit Tigers tickets and a Leinenkugel's canoe.

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa also is offering a summer wine dinner series at its Aerie Restaurant and Lounge, in collaboration with local vineyards Black Star Farms and Bowers Harbor Vineyards, taking place June 16, June 30 and July 28.

The June 30 dinner is at 7 p.m. and will focus on Michigan wines versus Spanish wines. Spencer Stegenga, owner of Bowers Harbor Vineyards, will discuss the winemaking process and four courses with wine pairings. The menu is Spanish-inspired including Michigan and Spanish wines with each course.

The July 28 dinner again features Bowers Harbor Vineyards, with a menu touching on several cuisines from around the world it starts out with a citrus gazpacho, then foie gras, a choice of short ribs or veal chop, and ends with a hazelnut chocolate torte. Bowers Harbor wines are matched with each dish. Pricing for each dinner is $65 per person, and reservations are required.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

New 'Workout' video released by M.Lawrence Sparkling Wines

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Sometimes the best approach to wines--which can often be a stuffy and overbearing environment--is a lighthearted one.

The folks over at M.Lawrence sparkling wines realize that, which is exactly why Mike Laing, assistant winemaker for the company, announced recently the first of a series of short videos showing the virtues of their products. This first video, called Workout, is available on YouTube and takes a look at the sparkling wines with more than a bit of humor.

"The lighthearted approach to enjoying our wines everyday in the video is immensely appealing to our customers," says Laing. "Our focus is on making seriously fun sparkling wines that remind folks not to take life so seriously and to enjoy life's every day moments."

M.Lawrence produces such sparkling wines as US, Sex, Fizz, Wet, Detroit, Green and Sandpiper. The company is located in Suttons Bay and is a brand of L. Mawby wines.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Mike Laing, M.Lawrence

Grand Traverse area welcomes "Don't Mess with the Mitten"

Tuesday, June 05, 2012

A new Michigan-focused product line, called "Don't Mess with the Mitten," is coming to Traverse City-area shops.

Don't Mess with the Mitten is a line of clothing and products like mugs and window clings, created by Lisa Burnia and Terri O'Brien of Detroit. Burnia and O'Brien created it as a response to worries about the state of Michigan in the late 2000s. Another brand they created with the help of Scott Pryor of Pryor Design in Ann Arbor, along the same lines was MichiCAN, which promotes positivity about the state.

The shirts are bought in Detroit, the printing is done in Novi, and a portion of each item's sale price goes toward the Girls Travel Club at Western High School in Detroit. The club takes girls from the inner-city school to travel throughout the state and learn about other places. So all in all, it's quite the Michigan-focuses business venture.

Burnia and O'Brien came to northern Michigan this spring to scout potential new retailers, since Don't Mess with the Mitten is primarily sold in metro Detroit stores. One of those retailers was Nifty Things, which has locations in Traverse City, Elk Rapids and Alden, owned by Martee Hickman.

Since Nifty Things is a strong supporter of Michigan and northern Michigan, and sells many related items, Burnia and O'Brien say they knew right away it was the perfect fit, and the store buyer and owner agreed. So visitors to the stores can expect to see Don't Mess with the Mitten and MichiCAN products on the shelves this year.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Terri O'Brien, Don't Mess with the Mitten

Team Elmers announces driveway contest winner

Tuesday, June 05, 2012

Team Elmer's will be putting in a new driveway for a very deserving family thanks to an annual contest the company holds.

The business announced recently that the Walker family of Kingsley will be the recipient of the $5,000 prize that is to be applied toward a brand-new asphalt driveway.

Throughout the month of April, Team Elmer’s searched for "the worst driveway in northern Michigan," asking each contestant to write a 200-word essay explaining why they were deserving of a new one. Team Elmer’s then narrowed the submission pool down to three finalists, judging each entry based on need, creativity, originality, and artistic merit. Finally, Team Elmer’s put the decision to a community vote, via their Facebook page.

"We cannot express how appreciative we are that (Team Elmer’s) selected us as a finalist and how overwhelmed we were with all the community support during the voting process," Angie Walker says. "We just can’t put into words how appreciative we are for the wonderful gift."

In addition to submitting their own case, the Walker family was unknowingly entered into the contest by a caring neighbor. Keith and Angie’s daughter, Grace, was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at birth, and the current muddy condition of their driveway presented difficulties in the maneuvering of her wheelchair. Team Elmer’s vows to remedy this situation, with hopes to complete the project in time for the family to host Fourth of July festivities.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Team Elmer's

New book about Fishtown hits shelves

Monday, June 04, 2012

Northern Michigan small publisher Arbutus Press has a new book on area shelves, and it's bound to be of interest to those who like local history. Author Laurie Kay Sommers has written a historical look at the Leelanau Peninsula's Fishtown, its people and, of course, its fishing.

The book, titled Fishtown: The Place and Its People, will be first released to the public at its release party June 28 at Leelanau Books in Leland, where Sommers will sign copies also.

Sommers tells the stories of commercial fishing, the fishermen who made their living from it, their families, and of the town itself, which still maintains its Great Lakes fishing history, as it has for more than a century.

Fishtown: The Place and Its People will be available at Northwest Michigan bookstores (including, of course, in Leland) this summer. Other book signings are also planned for this summer.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Laurie Kay Sommers, Arbutus Press

Pure Pilates heads to new location

Monday, June 04, 2012

Downtown Traverse City's Pure Pilates studio is relocating. Owner Jennifer Cutler-Pampas announced she will move her studio from its current location on Cass Street to a larger space on Maple Street.

The new location is 124 Maple Street, next to Cog's Creek Gallery and Studio. Pure Pilates will have about twice the amount of space as its old location, and have convenient parking close by. Both private and semi-private practice rooms will be set up at the Maple Street location, which will be open June 11. June 8 is the last day for classes at the Cass Street location.

"I have known Kim Bazemore, the owner of the building and Cog's Creek Gallery, for about five years and when her space came open I knew she was someone who I would enjoy having a business next to," says Cutler-Pampas. "Since she started her renovation in 2010, she has mentioned many times how she envisioned our studios coming together. And here we are."

Pure Pilates first opened in 2005, and has offered classes for men and women of all ages and fitness levels since then, with great success. The new location offers a view of Kids creek, more exercise space, bathrooms and parking.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Jennifer Cutler-Pampas, Pure Pilates

Two Northwest Michigan residents appointed to Cherry Committee by governor

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Two local residents have been named to the Michigan Cherry Committee by Gov. Rick Snyder.

Brian Altonen, of Kewadin, and Jim Nugent, of Suttons Bay, were recently appointed to the committee, which is made of nine members and works to develop and implement marketing industry for Michigan's cherry industry.

"The cherry market and agricultural industry are crucial parts of Michigan's economy," says Snyder. "I am confident Brian and Jim will continue to effectively serve."

Altonen is owner and manager of a fourth-generation farm, Altonen Orchards, where he grows 140 acres of cherries, 40 acres of apples, 20 acres of pears, eight acres of peaches, 40 acres of sweet corn and 20 acres of other field crops. He holds a bachelor's degree in food systems economics and management from Michigan State University.

Nugent is partner and operator of Sunblossom Orchards, where he grows 30 acres of tart cherries and 11 acres of sweet cherries. Previously, he worked as a district horticultural agent for Michigan State University Extension and coordinator for the NW Michigan Horticultural Research Station. Nugent earned a bachelor's degree in horticulture and a master's degree in entomology, both from Michigan State University.

Altonen and Nugent will serve three-year terms that expire Feb. 1, 2015.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Gov. Rick Snyder's Office

Traverse City Wine and Art Festival returns

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Traverse City is the place to be in the summer if you're into festivals, whether it's about cherries, food, art, wine or music.

The Traverse City Wine & Art Festival is coming up on June 30, and it combines all of those fantastic Northwest Michigan things in one celebration. Wine and art are backed by a large and diverse slate of musicians and restaurants.

Festival organizer Laura Herd says that's the aim of the festival, which is held at the Grand Traverse Commons.

"This is the one event that brings nearly all the wineries of our region together to celebrate the sights, sounds and tastes of Northern Michigan," Herd says. "What really sets our festival apart is how we combine culinary and cultural artistry to stimulate and excite your palate, letting you enjoy the fantastic wines and ciders our region has to offer as you dance, dine, and watch extraordinary performers in the gorgeous and historic arboretum of the Grand Traverse Commons."

The headlining band is fusion-world-rock group Rusted Root, in a return to Traverse City. Other performers will be Orpheum Bell, Lauren Mann and the Fairly Odd Folk, and the Naughty Neighbors.

Added to that, if you're coming for the wine, there will be 27 northern Michigan wineries, and more than 100 wines. A ticket includes two glasses, although we certainly suggest sampling more than that.

Area restaurants will offer small plates for pairing or just snacking throughout the day; they will include Trattoria Stella, Chez Peres, Mana, Poppycocks, Siren Hall, Little Bohemia, Phil's on Front, Om Café and Bourbons 72.

The festival is presented by Turtle Creek Hotel and Casinos, while Rusted Root and other entertainers are sponsored by Cherry Capital Subaru. Other sponsors are Up North Distributing, UpNorthLive.com, ArtCenter Traverse City and Traverse Legal.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Laura Herd, Traverse City Wine & Art Festival

Volz takes assistant VP spot at Traverse City State Bank

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Traverse City State Bank has two new assistant VPs, Stephanie Volz and Amy Grant.

Volz will be overseeing cash management and deposit operations for the Traverse City bank, and has worked at the bank since 2005.

Volz' previous capacities at the bank include cash management, branch and deposit operations. She was selected for the position as a result of her exceptional knowledge of bank procedures, services and products, and her high level of professionalism with staff and clients.

Amy Grant will serve as assistant VP, mortgage underwriter and loan production supervisor. She began working with Traverse Mortgage Corporation in 2000, and has been with Traverse City State Bank since 2006.

Traverse City State Bank is a locally owned and operated bank providing commercial and consumer banking services. It has three Traverse City locations and one in Suttons Bay.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Floor Covering Brokers hires Erickson as sales associate

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

There's a new face on the sales team over at Floor Covering Brokers in Traverse City.

The company, which is the largest privately-owned floor cover, tile and window treatments retailer in northern Michigan, recently announced that it hired Sally Erickson as a sales associate.

Erickson, who is a licensed builder, has significant experience in sales, design and construction. Previously she worked for her family's Port of Old Mission Association, a condominium developer. She has also served as president on both the local and national Home Builder's Association board.

Erickson joins a staff of 11 experienced flooring and blinds experts at Floor Covering Brokers. She is available for design and consultation for flooring and window treatments.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Dennis Lauterbach, Floor Covering Brokers

Great Start Collaborative celebrates small businesses

Tuesday, May 08, 2012

We here at Northwest Michigan Second Wave are the first to say that we think it's important to celebrate what small businesses bring to our communities and our economy. That's why we're so thrilled when groups like Great Start Traverse Bay/Manistee Collaborative take the time to celebrate those small businesses that are special to them.

The Great Start group recently treated over 150 childcare and preschool providers in the greater Traverse Bay region to events that helped showcase how much they appreciate "Small Businesses with Big Hearts."

Early childhood professionals were treated to flowers, desserts and beverages, goody bags and door prizes that included collections of toys and books for children. Everyone received at least one free children’s book through Traverse Bay Intermediate School District’s Early Childhood department’s "Michigan Reads" program and Sam’s Club also provided a special membership offer, which continues through the month of June for childcare providers.

Celebrations were held at the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce in Traverse City, and at locations in Kalkaska, Leelanau, Benzie and Manistee counties.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Great Start Traverse Bay/Manistee Collaborative

Verterra Winery piling up the honors in 2012

Tuesday, May 08, 2012

There's no shortage of wineries that win awards in Northwest Michigan, but it's a bit surprising when one that is not even yet a year old manages to pull two "Best of Class" medals in a single competition.

Verterra Winery, one of the newest additions to the Leelanau Peninsula's already-wide range of wine makers, earned itself two huge awards at the International Pacific Rim wine competition, held in Los Angeles. Its 2011 Chaos White Curvee brought home the Best of Class Wine award in the category of white wine blends. If that weren't enough, the winery's 2011 Pinot Blanc also won Best of Class.

The Best of Class award is especially noteworthy because in order to receive it all of the judges must be unanimous in their approval of the wine.

Verterra also managed to snag a gold medal in the competition with its 2011 Dry Riesling.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Verterra Winery

Interphase Interiors earns Best in Class dealer recognition

Tuesday, May 08, 2012

Interphase Interiors in Traverse City got an unusual honor from Haworth Inc., an office furniture company for which Interphase serves as dealer in northern Michigan and the Grand Rapids area.

It got the "Best in Class" distinction for 2012, which less than 10 percent of Haworth dealers are awarded yearly. Interphase had to show exceptional performance in several categories including market development, sales, customer satisfaction, operational excellence and enterprise development.

"The Best In Class distinction is a wonderful recognition of our team and the hard work they perform everyday to ensure we satisfy our customers and achieve organizational excellence," says Randy DeBoer, president of Interphase Interiors.

There are about 250 Haworth dealers in North America, and more than 600 worldwide. Fewer than 25 North American dealers receive the Best in Class award.

Interphase Interiors has been in business in western and northern Michigan for more than 30 years. DeBoer also was the first Michigan furniture dealer to gain LEED accreditation.

Haworth is a globally-recognized leader in office furniture design and manufacturing, also born here in Holland, Michigan.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Randy DeBoer, Interphase Interiors

Knights Inn of Traverse City gets Wyndham hotels award

Tuesday, May 08, 2012

Traverse City has no shortage of fantastic hotels, motels and resorts serving visitors year round. But if you've never stopped at the Knights Inn in TC, try it out next time. There's a reason we say so: the hotel just received its chain's Property of the Year designation, for the year 2011.

The 36-room inn on Munson Avenue is managed by Jeremy Martincheck, who accepted the award this spring from Knights Inn Franchising System and its parent company Wyndham Hotel Group.

The award is the absolute top of the awards given out to Knights Inns, and to get it, a hotel and its staff have to demonstrate commitment to their guests' experience. Specific criteria must be met, such as high guest satisfaction and quality assurance inspection scores, excellence in overall property appearance, and exceptional financial performance.

"The Knights Inn Traverse City team is very proud of the accomplishment and would like to personally recognize the many guests who we have had the privilege to serve. We look forward to seeing you all again soon," says Martinchek. "To those who have not stayed with the 'hidden gem of Traverse City,' please take the opportunity to enjoy our award winning hotel and the beautiful Traverse City area very soon."

The Knights Inn Traverse City is among more than 350 Knights Inns in North America, and among nearly 7,200 Wyndham Hotel Group properties worldwide.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Jeremy Martinchek, Knights Inn Traverse City

Springfield Commercial Roofing helps BATA with energy-efficient remodel

Tuesday, May 08, 2012

What better way to approach a new energy-efficiency project than by hiring a local company to make the upgrades? That's the Bay Area Transportation Authority's approach with their new energy-efficient improvements.

Springfield Commercial Roofing helped BATA install a new roof, new insulation, and energy-efficient Orion light pipes. The additions to the transportation authority's building should save them plenty of money and energy in the long run, and business development director Carrie Thompson says the change already is having benefits.

"We are very excited to start seeing the energy savings from our new roof and light pipes. The natural light that pours through the light pipes is amazing," says Thompson.

Springfield has a reputation for energy-efficient projects, and received a 2010 environmental stewardship award for the company's work on the Kalkaska Kalesium.

"We love it when we have the opportunity to work with clients who understand the dynamics of reflectivity, energy paybacks, added R-values, and are willing to utilize the free gift of mother nature, the sun, to help power their buildings," says Nick Jacqmain, project manager for Springfield.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Nick Jacqmain, Springfield Commercial Roofing

Center for Skin Care has new laser treatment available

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Those looking for skin care through the use of advanced laser systems can head over to The Center for Skin Care at Copper Ridge, an affiliate of The Center for Plastic Surgery.

The company, run by Dr. Steven Thomas and Dr. Christopher Jeffries, recently announced that it acquired a Sciton Laser Skin Care System for use at their offices.

This laser, says Thomas, is the newest and most advanced system of its kind and was purchased to help meet the demands of skin care clients in the Northwest Michigan region.

"We’re truly excited about adding this technology to our practice as it now allows us to offer a full spectrum of treatment options for our patients, from minimally invasive aesthetic procedures to more advanced laser skin care, all the way through surgical procedures," says Thomas, a board-certified plastic surgeon. "The Sciton is the newest technology, which means it’s more effective than older laser skin care systems and many of these treatments now require little or no downtime."

The laser system is effective for the treatment of wrinkles, scars, sun damage, redness and hair reduction. Treatments can also tighten skin and improve its overall tone.

The Center also offers skin coaching and minimally invasive procedures such as microdermabrasion, chemical peels, deep-cleansing facials, permanent make-up, Botox and fillers, and skin care products suited for all skin types.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Dr. Steven Thomas, The Center for Plastic Surgery

Northwestern Bank gives promotions to local managers

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Three Grand Traverse area banking professionals have received management-level promotions at Northwestern Bank.

At the bank's Traverse City Garfield office, Nicole Edenburn has been promoted to assistant VP and manager of the office. She has been the manager of the location since 2007, when she joined Northwestern Bank. Edenburn previously was a branch manager at another financial institution.

Brenda Majestic also was promoted to assistant VP and manager of the bank's Acme office, which she has managed since 2006. Majestic has been with Northwestern Bank since 2002.

Finally, Jan Bailey has been promoted from assistant manager to manager at the bank's Interlochen office. Bailey began working for the bank in 2004.

Northwestern Bank has 28 offices across Northwest Michigan.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Northwestern Bank

Northern Michigan wineries do well at Finger Lakes International Wine Competition

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Two Northwest Michigan wineries brought home the first of the year's crop--not of grapes, but awards.

At the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, Black Star Farms and Chateau Fontaine both received several awards for their 2010 and 2011 wines.

Out of entries from 22 countries and all 50 U.S. states, Black Star Farms and Chateau Fontaine each can brag of a best in class. Black Star's 2008 A Capella Ice Wine was given best in class for ice wines, and awarded the Crystal Grape Award. Chateau Fontaine was awarded best Riesling for its Dry White Riesling 100% from 2011.

Black Star also had two gold medals, for its 2010 Arcturos Riesling and 2010 Arcturos Cabernet Franc; a silver medal for its 2010 Arcturos Dry Riesling; and two bronzes, for the 2010 Arcturos Pinot Noir and 2010 Arcturos Late Harvest Riesling.

Chateau Fontaine added a silver medal to its collection for its Pinot Blanc/Weissburgunder of 2011, and a bronze for its 2010 Chardonnay.

"These wines showcase examples of what we in this region do so well," says Lee Lutes, Black Star Farms' head winemaker. "The red wines only continue to improve, as we take on ever greater knowledge of our fruit sources and sites, and the Rieslings continue to benefit from our lengthy cooler seasons and mineral-driven soils. What these accolades do is reinforce so much of what we are striving for in this dynamic grape-growing region."

The competition, held in New York's Finger Lakes region, is the largest charitable wine competition in North America, with proceeds going to benefit Camp Good Days and Special Times.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Lee Lutes, Black Star Farms

Five regional companies named to top 50 to watch list

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Four Northwest Michigan companies have earned a place on the "Michigan 50 Companies to Watch" list, which is part of an awards program presented by Michigan Celebrates Small Business.

Dancin' Dogg Golf, Chateau Chantal, Cherry Republic, Dr. Shrink and Twin Bay Medical all earned a place on the list. Each of the companies will be given an award by the Edward Lowe Foundation at a May 3 event in Lansing.

"While drawn from many sectors, the common thread of all the honorees is a commitment to entrepreneurial excellence and devotion to the great state of Michigan," says Dancin' Dogg CEO Brandon Theophilus. "Receiving this award is a testament to our philosophy of using emerging technology to create an unrivaled, fully immersive, virtual golfing experience."

Dancin' Dogg and Chateau Chantal are both based in Traverse City while Twin Bay Medical is located in Elk Rapids and Cherry Republic is in Glen Harbor. Dr. Shrink is headquartered in Manistee.

"We appreciate the recognition, we are very proud of our team and the quality products they produce, we look forward to a bright future in the great state of Michigan," says Albert Werth, president of Twin Bay Medical.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Brandon Theophilus, Dancin' Dogg Golf

Northwestern Bank in Petoskey hands out promotion and assigns new role

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

It looks like Jim Connaughton will have even more responsibilities in his position at Northwestern Bank in Petoskey while John Cool will have a whole new position.

Connaughton, who is an assistant vice president and commercial lender for the financial institution, will now also serve as market leader and help coordinate business development in both Petoskey and Harbror Springs. Connaughton has been with the bank since 2009 and has more than two decades of experience in the business. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston and a masters from Wayne State University. In addition to his responsibilities at Northwestern Bank, Connaughton is on the Harbor Springs Chamber of Commerce board of directors, a member of the Petoskey Sunrise Rotary Club and is on the board for the National Cherry Festival.

In addition to Connaughton's increased responsibilities, the bank also announced the promotion of Cool. Cool is now a commercial credit analyst at the Petoskey Loan Center and has been with the bank since 2009. His former positions with Northwestern Bank include customer service representative and commercial loan assistant.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Northwestern Bank

Library joins forces with transportation organizations to offer free "on the go" e-books

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

As spring and summer traveling begins, what's better than taking a good book along on your trip? Well, maybe taking a free e-book, a lot of people might agree.

Traverse Area District Library certainly does, with their new initiative offering local travelers easy access to the library's e-book collection. Accessing e-books can be tricky sometimes; you almost always need a library card to take advantage of local offerings, and the right software or file formats for whatever device you want to read it on. TADL is taking the hassle out of it through simple QR codes travelers can scan with their smartphone or e-reader.

In partnership with the Cherry Capital Airport and the Bay Area Transportation Authority, the QR codes will appear on signage in the airport and at BATA transit stations.

"TADL is reaching out to organizations within our community to help highlight library resources and facilitate access to information," says TADL director, Metta Lansdale, Jr. "It made sense to launch this initiative with Cherry Capital Airport and BATA because their customers include both residents and visitors to our area."

The library's Overdrive program allows access to more than 30,000 public-domain e-book titles, and the specific QR codes at the airport and bus stations direct travelers to a collection of literary classic e-books like the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Little Women, A Tale of Two Cities and War and Peace.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Metta Lansdale, Jr., Traverse Area District Library

Elk Rapids' Harbor Days hires event planner

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

When an event is growing at the rate the Elk Rapids' Harbor Days is growing, it's important to find a director that is able to keep up with the pace.

That's why the event recently named C. Anne Coulter as the new executive director for the town's biggest celebration. Coulter comes into the position with a resume that is more than impressive. She has proven her ability to plan and coordinate massive events, including two Olympic games, been a coordinator for the Indianapolis 500 Festival and has planned events held for more than 40,000 attendees.

Harbor Days will be the newest addition to her 25 years of planning and directing experience. The event annually draws in approximately 40,000 participants with that number expected to keep growing.

Coulter is one of two certified special events professionals in Michigan, according to a press release, and one of three accredited bridal consultants in the state.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Elk Rapids' Harbor Days

9&10 News earns recognition as "Station of the Year"

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Awards season for Hollywood may be wrapping up, but the awards season for TV stations, including our local 9 & 10 News, is just announced, and it looks like 9 & 10 News is a household name in northern Michigan for good reason.

The Michigan Association of Broadcasters released the results of their 2011 Broadcast Awards, and WWTV-WWUP, 9 & 10 News grabbed the top spot as the association's Station of the Year Award. That's far from all; the station also was awarded Best Marketing Materials and Promos, Best News Special and Best Community Involvement. It was also honored for merit in several other categories: investigative story, mini-documentary or series, news special, newscast, photojournalist, breaking news story, sports and weathercast.

The Associated Press also announced their 2011 broadcasting awards, and 9 & 10 News was on top of the list again, winning the AP's General Excellence Award. The station also took home Best Newscast, Best Spot News, Best Hard News, Best Continuing Coverage, Best Feature Story, Best Enterprise or Investigative Reporting and Best Weathercast.

Plenty of honorable mentions rounded out the AP award set, in the newscast, spot news, news documentary, feature story, natural sound, spot photojournalism and individual photojournalism categories.

"We are very honored to accept these awards. Our staff is committed to producing a high quality news product for Northern Michigan and these awards reflect our dedication," says Kevin Dunaway, news director of 9 & 10 News.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kevin Dunaway, 9 & 10 News

COMLINK expands services to Traverse City

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

The world of business isn't going to slow down anytime soon. In fact, at least in Traverse City, it's likely to get a bit faster.

Thanks to Comlink, a Lansing-based company, businesses in Traverse City will now be able to sign up for ultra-high broadband speeds for their Internet. The network connects Traverse City to Comlink's 3,000 miles of "carrier-grade" fiber optic cable.

"This is another significant milestone for our network and we’re excited about our rapid growth path into Northern Michigan’s business communities," says Comlink's chief operating officer, John Summersett.

Comlink offers up a variety of business connectivity solutions for voice, data and Internet and also data centers all around Michigan and the Midwest. What's more is that their support service center is located in Michigan and staffed by Michigan workers 24 hours every day.

For local pricing, contact the Anavon Technology Group.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: John Summersett, Comlink

Shanty Creek chef selected for industry award

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Andrew Reh, executive chef for Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire, has been named the Culinary Star of the Year for 2012 by the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association.

Reh will receive the award March 26 at the Governor's Annual Conference on Tourism.

"This is truly deserving for Andrew," says Pete Bigford, general manager of the resort. "His leadership and industry experience have given the resort a real advantage. His vision has created a variety of menus and dining atmospheres that cater to thousands of guests annually."

Reh isn't just contributing to the community in the kitchen either; he also has helped fundraising efforts this year for a local chapter of March of Dimes, the Good Samaritan Food Pantry, the Antrim County High Tea for breast cancer prevention, a local church, and non-profit ski area Mt. Holiday. Reh also serves on the Traverse City TBA Career Tech Advisory Board, which helps high school students train in occupational programs.

The award-winning chef's resume includes experience at the White House in Washington, D.C., several Ritz Carlton properties, and the McCamly Plaza Hotel in Battle Creek.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Pete Bigford, Shanty Creek Resorts

New mortgage VP at TC State Bank

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Traverse City State Bank customers have two new assets on their side when their mortgage is on the table.

Tammy Ranger is the new assistant VP for residential mortgages for Traverse City State Bank, and will be primarily focusing on the Antrim County area. She brings 25 years of banking experience to the job. Ranger also is known for her excellent client service and good relationships with area realtors, which she will be using to provide TCSB customers with trustworthy, lasting relationships -- the kind you want to have with your realtor and bank.

Ranger attended Montcalm Community College and Central Michigan University's Robert M. Perry School of Banking.

The bank also announced the addition of Thomas Dilloway to its mortgage team.

Dilloway has 35 years of banking experience, and has been focusing on mortgages for the past 21 years.

He is a Traverse City resident and adjunct instructor at Northwestern Michigan College, as well as past board chair for the Traverse City Housing Commission and Junior Achievement, and a graduate of the Leadership Grand Traverse program through the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce.

Traverse City State Bank is locally-owned and managed, serving customers across the Grand Traverse Bay region, with locations in Traverse City and Suttons Bay.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Traverse City State Bank

Maritime Academy instructors receive waterways awards

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Two Great Lakes Maritime Academy faculty members were honored recently at the Great Lakes Waterways Conference for their service and contributions within the maritime community.

Deck Instructor Bob Mason of the academy was awarded the Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement from the U.S. Maritime Administration. The medal is presented to industry leaders who have dedicated years of service and made extraordinary contributions to the maritime industry

Michael Surgalski, deck instructor and captain of the training ship State of Michigan, was appointed a captain in the U.S. Maritime Service at the conference.

"Our cadets already know of Bob and Mike's dedication to the industry. We're pleased to see them both receive this well-deserved recognition," says Academy Superintendent Jerry Achenbach.

Mason has been an instructor with the Great Lakes Maritime Academy since 1979; Surgalski has been with the school since 1995. The academy is located at Northwestern Michigan College.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Jerry Achenbach, Northwestern Michigan College

Grand Traverse Resort has new general manager

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has a new manager, as of March 1; Timothy Norman is now overseeing the staff of the Acme resort and spa as their general manager.

The hotel and spa are part of the Grand Traverse Resort and Casinos, near Traverse City on 900 acres along the shore of Grand Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan.

"Mr. Norman's responsibilities are to lead the staff of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, which is approximately 500 persons in winter and grows to over 900 in summer," says J. Michael D'Agostino, public relations manager for the resort and casinos.

He's well equipped for the job, with more than 20 years of hospitality management experience. Norman comes to Northwest Michigan from Battle Creek, where he was general manager of the McCamly Plaza Hotel. Previously, he was general manager of the Double JJ Resort in Rothbury, Michigan. He also was the VP and general manager of the Ogle Bay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia for more than 10 years.

Norman holds a bachelor's degree in hotel and restaurant management, and is a past president of the Virginia chapter of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: J. Michael D'Agostino, Grand Traverse Resort & Spa

Thomas Dilloway is newest employee at Traverse City State Bank

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Traverse City State Bank has a new mortgage expert on staff thanks to the decision to hire Thomas Dilloway recently.

Dilloway, who has been in the banking industry for 35 years, has focused on the field of mortgage origination for the past 21 years. He says his business motto is a simple one that involves "building relationships through outstanding service and establishing a high level of customer confidence."

Dilloway is no stranger to the Traverse City area. He is an adjunct instructor at Northwest Michigan College and has been the chairman of both the Traverse City Housing Commission and Junior Achievement boards. In addition, he has been known to help raise funds for United Way, the Salvation Army and the YMCA, among others. He also completed the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Grand Traverse Program.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Thomas Dilloway, Traverse City State Bank

Leelanau, Emmet counties get funding via transportation grant

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Trails for pedestrians and bicyclists around Leelanau and Emmet counties will see some improvements this coming year, thanks to a transportation enhancement grant from the state Department of Transportation.

Leelanau and Emmet are two of four Michigan counties to get the federally-funded grants, which will support tourism and business in the state.

"This federal funding helps pay for improvements that make a real difference in economic development and quality of life," says state transportation director Kirk Steudle. "Transportation enhancements like these make Michigan communities even more attractive to residents, visitors and business investors."

The federal transportation funds pay for 80 percent of each project, with the rest coming from MDOT and local governments or the private sector.

The Emmet County project is funded locally by the Emmet County Road Commission, and at the state level by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The project will construct seven miles of a 10-foot-wide trail from M-119 in Petoskey to Powers Road in Alanson. About five and a half trail miles will be constructed on a former railroad corridor owned by the DNR, while one and a half miles will be constructed in the right of way along US-31.

In all, the project will cost $1.3 million, with $300,000 coming from the DNR Natural Resources Trust Fund and $103,700 from the DNR Recreational Trails Program.

In the Leelanau county transportation project, the Leelanau County Road Commission will pave six and a half miles of the Leelanau Trail, part of the Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation trail, from Lakeview Hills Road to Revold Road. The plan is to use asphalt pavement from Lakeview Hills Road to Bingham Road, and crushed limestone from Bingham Road to Revold Road.

The total cost is $671,500, with about $201,000 of that coming from TART Trails, Inc.

The other two projects are in Kent and Livingston counties. Livingston County also will improve its pedestrian and bicycle paths, while Kent County will improve a Grand Rapids business district with better stormwater runoff.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kirk Steudle, Michigan Department of Transportation.

Support for two Northwest Michigan farms announced

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Two Northwest Michigan farms are getting a bit of help from grants issued by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Light of Day Organics, a Traverse City-based organic farm, and Royal Farms, located in Ellsworth, were awarded funds from the Value-Added Producer Grant program run by the USDA. The idea behind the program is to help farmers and growers develop marketing strategies for agricultural commodities.

"Michigan agriculture is strong and expanding five times faster than the general economy," says U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, who announced the grant recipients. "From food processing and manufacturing to farming and marketing, Michigan's agriculture industry is extremely wide ranging. Our agriculture sector brings in more than $71 billion a year and supports one out of every four jobs in the state. We are poised to continue building on that success and creating jobs here in Michigan, and tying our farms to tourism is a recipe for success."

Light of Day Organics will receive $293,842, which will be used to develop a marketing campaign to promote the farm as a premier health and wellness destination in Northwest Michigan. The farm's products are grown organically and hand harvested.

Royal Farms is known for its cherries, apples and pears. The farm will receive $45,094 to help fund marketing activities promoting their new fruit wines and hard cider products.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Congress

Traverse City Chamber and MyNorth Media combine efforts to help entice talent and business to region

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

The Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce has long led the charge in trying to help recruit talent and business to the region. Now they've found another ally in that cause.

The chamber and MyNorth Media recently announced their partnership in the creation of a multi-media recruiting and relocation publication known as Traverse City Region Careers.

"Traverse City Region Careers provides recruits and businesses considering a move to our area with a window into our alluring lifestyle, the sophisticated cultural activity and the winning landscape," says Deborah Wyatt Fellows, founder of Traverse Magazine and CEO of MyNorth Media. "It engages the emotions through gorgeous photos, embedded video and more. But like any good publication, it is also packed with calls to action, including contacts integrated into every section, providing easy ways for a potential recruit to find out more."

The publication will feature profiles of businesses that include CEO letters, company highlights, employee interviews and more--basically anything a business would like to include to tell the story of what makes them an attractive prospect for employees.

"We are actively talking with Northern Michigan’s manufacturing, health care, engineering and service industry leadership," says Fellows. "Traverse City Region Careers will place Northern Michigan’s spectacular life and employment opportunities in front of the people and businesses that will help shape the exciting future of our region."

To find out more about participating in Traverse City Region Careers, businesses should contact Jeff Hale via email.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Deborah Wyatt Fellows, MyNorth Media

Community collaboration helps bring exhibit to area residents

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Collaboration is the name of the game when it comes to bringing outstanding exhibits to the region--just ask the Traverse Area District Library, the Dennos Museum Center and the Interlochen Center for the Arts.

Thank to the efforts of the three organizations, the Great Michigan Read traveling exhibit, "We Don't Want Them," will be shown throughout the region in March.

"Rather than applying for the exhibit as three single organizations and competing for the opportunity, we decided to combine our efforts in hosting the exhibit in order to offer a variety of complementary programming," says Diana Bolander, curator of education and interpretation at Dennos.

The exhibit focuses on race and housing in metropolitan Detroit ranging from 1900 until now. Through reproductions of historic documents and photographs, viewers of "We Don’t Want Them" will learn about the causes and effects of residential segregation.

In addition to hosting the exhibit, each organization will offer supporting programs ranging from concerts and presentations to a community book discussion and a film screening designed to stimulate discussion concerning the themes of discrimination as well as tolerance and acceptance which are represented in both the exhibit and book selection.

The exhibit will run at Interlochen, March 1-10, before moving on to Dennos March 11-18. The Traverse Area District Library will host the exhibit March 19-28.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Diana Bolander, Dennos Museum Center

Camp Pet-O-Se-Ga annual snowshoe challenge set for Feb. 25

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

The little bit of snow we've managed to get here in Northwest Michigan is a beautiful sight--especially if you're planning a winter event.

One such event happy to have snow on the ground is the annual 5K Snowshoe Challenge at Camp Pet-O-Se-Ga, which takes place Feb. 25. But even if the snow doesn't tally enough inches to make for a great snowshoe race, there's going to be a competition nonetheless. Snow or no snow, the show must go on--organizers indicate if there isn't enough of the powdery precipitation on the ground, a foot race will beheld instead.

"Come out for the fun of it-- you don’t have to be an athlete to take part," says Laurie Gaetano, the director of Emmet County Parks and Recreation.

Camp Pet-O-Se-Ga is located on Pickerel Lake in Alanson. This year marks the third annual Snowshoe Challenge, but technically it will be the second race, as last year’s event was canceled due to lack of snow.

This year, organizers will circumvent Mother Nature.

"Bring your snowshoes and your tennis shoes just in case," says Gaetano.

Registration is $15 per person in advance (Feb. 24 or before) or $20 on the day of the event. The fee includes lunch at the Rec Hall and prizes. Race age groups are: 13-17; 18-29; 30-39; 40-49; and 50+. All ages and abilities are welcome. Medals will be awarded for men and women in each age division.

For more information, call (231) 348-0014 or visit the county website.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Laurie Gaetano, Emmett County Parks and Recreation

TCL&P announces the "Power of Art" video and art contest

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

A hundred years is a long time for any company to be around, and it's certainly an occasion worth celebrating. Traverse City Light & Power has reached that century milestone this year, and one of the ways it's celebrating with the community is the "Power of Art" contest, which is open to entries in all mediums of art, including video.

The "Power of Art" contest is split into two categories; video and two-dimensional art. Students and community members are invited to enter pieces or artworks that engage viewers in ideas about electric power, and promote the understanding of the role electricity plays in the community. The particular focus of the contest is energy efficiency.

"Light & Power hopes to engage the community in a new way through the 'Power of Art' contest," says Ed Rice, L&P executive director. "We hope students and community members will learn about the important role energy efficiency plays in the success of the Traverse City area through the art they create."

The video category will consist of original videos up to five minutes long, showing the importance of energy efficiency in the community. It is split further into two categories: students and community members. Winners in each category receive a $500 Downtown Traverse City gift certificate, as well as participating in an awards ceremony.

The 2-D category is open to students, Grades 6-12, who must create a work of art on the importance of energy efficiency in the community. One winner will be chosen at each grade level, and receive a $400 class sponsorship for supplies and curriculum support, and a $100 Downtown Traverse City gift certificate for their teacher.

The exhibition of entries and awards ceremony is planned for April 13. Entry forms are available online.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ed Rice, Traverse City Light & Power

TV 7&4 has new co-anchor

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

There's a new face anchoring the 7&4 News for the station's 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts--Arielle Berlin.

Berlin comes to the Traverse City area with plenty of experience under her belt. Originally from Michigan's West Bloomfield, Berlin is a graduate of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and recently obtained her Master’s in Corporate Communications at NYU. She worked as a news anchor and reporter for NBC 24 in Toledo for three years.

"I’m looking forward to exploring the beautiful towns, lakes and shopping in Northwest Michigan," says Berlin. "And I hope to snag a few recipes from the popular local chefs."

WPBN/WTOM TV 7&4 is owned and operated by Barrington Broadcasting Group, which owns 21 television stations in 15 markets.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Arielle Berlin, 7&4 News

Downtown marketing director gets award from Michigan Meetings & Events

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Traverse City's Downtown Development Authority doesn't have to worry about how well their events are being put together--they know they have the best in the business when it comes to that department.

Colleen Paveglio, the downtown marketing director for the DDA, was named the Michigan Meetings + Events Magazine's 2012 Best Special Events Planner recently. The award is one of the magazine's "Hall of Fame" awards. According to the magazine, the award is "presented to individuals who have show leadership in and/or made remarkable contributions to the meetings and events industry in the state of Michigan."

"This award is reflective of the quality Colleen exhibits when organizing the dozens of events we put on ever year," says Bryan Crough, executive director of the Traverse City DDA. "We are lucky to have such a high-caliber professional here in TC."

Paveglio will be inducted into the hall of fame at a May event, which is scheduled to be held in Detroit.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Bryan Crough, Traverse City DDA

Mansfield elected secretary of Michigan Townships Association

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Doug Mansfield, the supervisor of Union Township in Grand Traverse County, will now have responsibilities that will impact all of the townships in Michigan instead of just his own. That's because Mansfield was recently elected as the secretary of the Michigan Townships Association.

Mansfield, who has been township supervisor since 1995, is no stranger to the Michigan Townships Association. In fact, he's been on the board of directors for the past seven years representing townships in Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau and Manistee counties.

"During my tenure as MTA secretary, I hope to continue to forward the mission that individual township government, even in the most rural of areas, plays a vast role in growing the new Michigan economy," says Mansfield. "As the steward for the majority of the land and people in the state, townships must stay in the forefront of supporting new markets, ideas and trends in their region in order to maintain the quality of life that is so steadfast in our heritage."

Prior to being supervisor in Union Township, Mansfield was a trustee for two years and is a past member of the township planning commission, rural fire board, the chair of the Grand Traverse County Board of Public Works and on the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce Business Leadership Council. He has been a member of the MTA Grand Traverse County Chapter since 1993.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Doug Mansfield, Michigan Townships Association

FrontierUS launching a Peplink Reseller Initiative

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Local computer gurus at Frontier Computer have a new credit to their names: the company is becoming a Peplink reseller, an extension of an ongoing partnership between the two companies.

Northern Michigan-based Frontier Computer Corp. has been a North American distributor for Peplink's routers and connectivity devices since early 2010. As increasing demands for networking, reliability and bandwidth spread to smaller businesses, Frontier has seen the opportunity to grow further with Peplink.

The reseller initiative means Frontier customers will have faster shipping and distribution, as Frontier will be stocking the whole Peplink product line locally. Technical support on Peplink products also will be provided by Frontier's experienced IT staff.

It also will include a new website that allows online ordering of Peplink products, and retailer information and sign-up. Partner pricing and marketing are other benefits for local retailers.

"I'm also very excited to announce that Frontier will be rolling out the first Peplink Customer Care program in North America with a 24/7 answering service and support ticket system. With guidance and support from our knowledgeable sales and technical staff, our partners will have the opportunity to expand their business, capture additional revenue, and serve their customers' needs with great care." says Steve Hawn, Frontier CEO.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Steve Hawn, Frontier Computer Corp.

Morsels making a small move in downtown TC

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

If you haven't been by Morsels in a while, you should make note that they are going to be in a new location come May 1.

The bakery, which serves up bite-sized tastiness, will be heading to 321 East Front Street. Thankfully, that means they'll be staying right here in Traverse City.

"We're looking forward to more space, more seating, more coffee and food," the company says on its website. "And if you haven't seen the view from the new spot, you'll be impressed!"

The new location is the former home of Belstone Gallery and, later, Gallery 50. Morsels will be on the same Front Street block as Nolan's Tobacco Shop and Yen Yoga.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Morsels Bakery

Locally-made riesling gets well-deserved recognition

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

If one thing is for certain, it's that Michigan wines are definitely making a big name for themselves. Take, for example, Chateau Grand Traverse and the wines that company is producing. Not only have they been heralded across the state by wine aficionados, but they have earned the attention of wine professionals across the country.

Most recently, Chateau Grand Traverse's 2010 Whole Cluster Riesling was included in the Editor Picks 2011: Best Wine and Beer article in Food & Wine magazine. In the article, wine editors Megan Krigbaum and Ray Isle selected 10 wines as the best of 2011.

"I’ve been going to this winery in Grand Traverse, Michigan, with my parents since I was a toddler, but the quality of the wine has grown significantly in recent years," Krigbaum says in the article. "This affordable riesling is the result of an experiment begun by winemaker Sean O’Keefe about five years ago. It’s faintly sweet with ripe fruit and great acidity."

The winery began operation in 1974 and has been known for quite some time for its exceptional Rieslings. The Whole Cluster Riesling was also a winner at the 2010 San Francisco Chronicle International Wine Competition.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Megan Krigbaum, Food & Wine

Cherry Republic facility in Traverse City gets green light

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

The Michigan Economic Growth Authority has lit the green light for Cherry Republic to move forward on its multi-use brownfield redevelopment project.

The project, which will support the construction of a retail outlet, a food production facility and new residential spaces in Traverse City, will require the demolition of two buildings before the five-story mixed-use building can be erected.

The Cherry Republic building is a benefit for the company and for the community, the authority says.

"This new Cherry Republic facility consolidates their production, retail and administrative operations and brings the company’s high quality jobs into the center of downtown Traverse City," says Michael Finney, president and CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. "As we transition from our previous tax credit programs into the Michigan Business Development and Michigan Community Revitalization programs, we will continue to seek to help Michigan companies with amendments to prior agreements as real world business changes arise."

The Grand Traverse Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will use captured local and school tax valued at $2,264,085 for the project. The Cherry Republic Center will include administrative offices, a primary retail outlet and food production facility for Cherry Republic products. The plan may also include up to 13 residential units with underground parking. The project is expected to create up to 30 permanent full-time jobs, with a total capital investment of approximately $13 million.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michael Finney, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Local wineries earn medals at San Francisco competition

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

There's no doubt that the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition is considered one of the best in the country, drawing in entries from across the country.

Northwest Michigan was well represented with four wineries being awarded medals for Rieslings and other wines ranging from dry to sweet.

One of the standout performances was by Blackstar Farms, which netted a double gold, a gold and a bronze for its wines. Also winning medals with their local wines were Chateau Grand Traverse, Forty-Five North and Chateau Fontaine.

The 2010 Arcturos Late Harvest Riesling earned a double gold from the judges while the 2010 Arcturos Riesling was a gold medal winner. Taking a bronze was the Sirius Red Dessert Wine.

"It’s always an honor to be recognized for the quality of our region," says Lee Lutes, head winemaker for Blackstar. "2010 was certainly an exemplary vintage showcasing many of the best attributes of Riesling growing in this climate. These medals will further raise the standards by which we continue to create our wines."

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Lee Lutes, Blackstar Farms

USDA asking for applications for renewable energy and efficiency projects

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Energy efficiency and renewable energy projects are important, especially for agricultural producers and rural small businesses that need to cut costs in any way possible.

That's why the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced that it is seeking applications to provide assistance to those two groups for funding for a variety of efficiency and renewable energy projects.

"Renewable energy development presents an enormous economic opportunity for rural America,” says Tom Vilsack, the agriculture secretary. "This funding will assist rural farmers, ranchers and business owners to build renewable energy projects, providing opportunities for new technologies, create green jobs and help America become more energy self-sufficient."

The Rural Energy for America Program was created to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses reduce energy costs and consumption. For 2012, USDA has approximately $25.4 million available to fund the program, which will support at least $12.5 million in grants and approximately $48.5 million in guaranteed loan program level awards.

The USDA is accepting the following applications:

• renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement grant applications and combination grant and guaranteed loan applications until March 30, 2012;

• renewable energy system and energy efficiency improvement guaranteed loan only applications on a continuous basis up to June 29;

• renewable energy system feasibility study applications through March 30; and

• energy audits and renewable energy development assistance applications through Feb. 21.

More information on how to apply for funding is available in the Jan. 20 Federal Register, pages 2948-2954.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Tom Vilsack, USDA

Comfort Keepers named one of the top hiring companies in the nation

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

If you ask Fox News and CareerBuilder.com, the company that is making a lot of noise in the hiring department is Comfort Keepers, which has two regional locations in Northwest Michigan.

Fox News, during its morning show, Fox and Friends, named Comfort Keepers as one of the top five companies in the country hiring in 2012. CareerBuilder.com named the company as one of the top 10 currently hiring in terms of numbers of job listings postings in September last year.

That's because, nation-wide, Comfort Keepers posted 2,100 jobs for new caregiver positions, and they're still growing. The local offices in Traverse City and Petoskey expect to hire at least 100 employees this year to fill open positions for homemakers, companions, drivers, personal care aides and nursing positions.

"We attribute the growth of our employee base to the immediate need of our services,” says Leslie Knopp, local owner. "Most people say they want to age at home. In-home care is a growing industry that will only show more demand as baby boomers look for someone to care for their parents and eventually, to care for themselves."

Founded in Springfield, Ohio and now with over 600 franchised locations around the country and more than 13 years of service, Comfort Keepers has earned the reputation of being a leading provider of in-home care for seniors and other adults. Approximately 25,000 caregivers and office employees work at the independently owned and operated offices in the U.S.

"We have developed a winning formula for recruiting people and that is one more reason we continue to grow," said Knopp. “We look for people who have a heart for serving others, we provide some of the best training in the industry, and we retain them because the work is rewarding and schedules are flexible."

Individuals interested in applying for a position at their local Comfort Keepers office can visit the Comfort Keepers employment center.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Leslie Knopp, Comfort Keepers

Michigan Brewers Guild announces 2012 board of directors

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

The Michigan Brewers Guild had its annual meeting at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire in earlier this month, and announced some new leadership on the guild's board.

We were glad to see the guild up here in Northwest Michigan, as we've certainly got some tasty local brews to offer. Hopefully they used them to toast these newly elected or re-elected board members, who each will serve a two-year term.

Our local representative on the board is Scott Newman-Bale, VP of Short's Brewing Company in Bellaire, who was elected to a second term on the board, and another year as treasurer.

Eric Briggeman, brewmaster at Rochester Mills Beer Co. in Rochester, begins a fourth term on the board, and a fifth year as guild president. Steve Berthal, brewmaster and partner at The Livery in Benton Harbor, was elected to a third term on the board. Isaac Hartman of New Holland Brewing Co. will serve a second term on the board, and Greg Burke, brewmaster at Woodward Avenue Brewers in metro Detroit, will serve a second term on the board and continue to serve as secretary.

The Michigan Brewers Guild is celebrating its fifteenth year this year, and represents 89 member breweries in the state, a number that just keeps growing. They put on four annual festivals, including the Winter Beer Festival in February in Grand Rapids, the Summer Beer Festival in July in Ypsilanti, the U.P. Fall Beer Festival in September and the Detroit Fall Beer Festival in October.

Maybe we can get them to add one in Northwest Michigan in the years to come. Now that would be a good time!

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michigan Brewers Guild

The Homestead names Sallie Krepps as 2011 associate of the year

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

The Homestead resort in Glen Arbor named Sallie Krepps its Associate of the Year. Krepps is the manager of the resort's Spa Amira, and its newly-opened salon, Lillyjade.

VP and general manager Adriene Kokowicz says Krepps was chosen for her experience, high standards, and her leadership in opening the new salon.

"Sallie has always been effective in her positions at The Homestead. Not only does she provide exemplary service to our guests, she trains her associates to do the same," says Kokowicz. "Sallie also took a lead position in assisting with the new salon, Lillyjade that was built this year. She has developed the programs and services and has a wonderful team of associates. She has an outstanding attitude, one that is focused on service."

Krepps, who is from Empire, has been working at The Homestead since 2009, when she began as an esthetician at Spa Amira. The next year, she became spa manager, and her cosmetology background helped add the full-service Lillyjade in 2011. Krepps now manages both.

That Associate of the Year award is no joke, either; Krepps is receiving a vacation trip for two to anywhere in the U.S., including airfare and $500 in spending money. She says she'll use it to celebrate her 25th wedding anniversary and 50th birthday this year.

The other Associate of the Year nominees were Neal Kokowicz, banquet manager; Dan Stewart, accounting manager; Chris Sutton, accommodations manager; and Shane Wyatt, utilities manager.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Adriene Kokowicz, The Homestead

Michigan Manufacturing Center supported with new funding

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center is getting continued funding, at least through this spring, according to an announcement from U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Carl Levin.

The center, which has an office in Traverse City, is the Michigan arm of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which links public and private resources to help small and medium-sized manufacturers across the state.

It's received federal funding in the past, and the senators say that award was extended because of the need for the center's services in Michigan. Among those services are helping Michigan's 12,600 small manufacturers expand their operations, become more efficient, increase sales, and create jobs.

"MMTC appreciates the longstanding support of the MEP network provided by Senators Stabenow and Levin. They understand the importance that manufacturing provides as an economic driver across our country and especially in Michigan. Each manufacturing job is significant, as it generates output in so many other sectors of the economy," says Mike Coast, president of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center.

The award was in the amount of $945,000, and was awarded through the Department of Commerce National Institute of Standards and Technology. It will support the center's operations through June of 2012.

The other offices of the center are in Plymouth, Grand Rapids, Saginaw and Marquette.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Mike Coast, Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center

Kelly Services named one of happiest places to work

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Working for a company you're unhappy with is a sure way to come home stressed, depressed and frustrated. But, employees at Michigan's Kelly Services apparently don't have to deal with that, because the company just got the Happiest Companies in America award for 2012 from CareerBliss.

It's only the award's second year, but it honors employers who make outstanding efforts to create workplace happiness. Troy-based Kelly Services has a Traverse City office, among others, and hasn't received the award before.

CareerBliss is an online career community that focuses on helping people find happiness and success throughout their careers. In order to award the title of happiest company, it analyzed thousands of reviews and ratings reported by employees of each company in 2010 and 2011.

"Kelly Services is honored to be recognized by CareerBliss as one of the Happiest Companies in America," says Carl Camden, president and CEO of Kelly Services. "This award is especially meaningful to us because it's based on the feedback of both our full-time employees and our free agents--showing that when you connect talented people with meaningful work, and then champion their success, you create a company where people are excited to come to work and give their best every day."

Kelly Services is a temporary employment agency that connects those seeking work with temporary or consulting jobs matching their skills, and also employs full-time regular workers at its offices.

The company was evaluated on work-life balance, relationship with management and colleagues, work environment, job resources, compensation, growth opportunities, company culture, reputation, daily workload, and employee control over daily work.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Carl Camden, Kelly Services

Oryana announces new managers

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Oryana Natural Foods Market has some changes at the top of the store management, with a new store manager in Traverse City and new department managers as well.

The store's general manager, Steve Nance, says that Eldon Horner will be the new store manager. Horner is a long-time employee with 13 years of experience in food retailing, and eight of those have been at Oryana.

"We are thrilled to see one of our own transition into this managerial position," says Nance. "Eldon was chosen from a number of great candidates for his operational skills and experience and his long commitment to Oryana."

Horner will now manage the operational aspects of the store and oversee department, front-end and food service managers.

Among the new promotions to that level of position are Brian Bowman, who will be grocery manager, and Gabe Eriksen, who will be grocery operations manager.

Each have many years of experience behind them as well; Bowman has been at Oryana for 11 years, and Eriksen has worked there for nine years.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Steve Nance, Oryana Natural Foods Market

NW Michigan Council of Governments offers free business class

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Winter can be a slow time for northern Michigan businesses, but maybe that's a good thing for some, if it means there's time to take a new "business survival" class offered by the Business Training Alliance.

The class, titled Survival for the Up North Business, focuses on best practices, building relationships and boosting businesses' bottom lines, and is hosted by the alliance along with Baker College in Cadillac and the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center.

It's scheduled for Jan. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Baker College, and is instructed by Chris Wendel, a consultant with the MI-SBTDC and longtime retail store owner.

"Not only is Survival for the Up North Business extremely timely for local business owners as we're heading into the winter months when most small businesses are buckling down and preparing for lower sales, this is also a perfect opportunity to highlight our partnership with Baker College and the express classes now available to new and experienced local entrepreneurs," says Annie Shetler, BTA coordinator and also a MI-SBTDC consultant.

Since many northern Michigan small businesses are affected by the seasons, the class will address tactics to build non-seasonal sales, such as online marketing. Other highlights are how to make your existing customers part of boosting sales, and how to compete with business competitors of different sizes.

The class is free, but registration is required. Register online here.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Annie Shetler, Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center

Kiss Carpet gets regional business award

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

A Mancelona store was recognized as an industry leader in flooring recently, as Kiss Carpet Design Center received the Retailer of the Year award from Mohawk Flooring for the mid-central region.

That area includes flooring retailers in Ohio Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, West Virginia and Pennsylvania, so it means Kiss Carpet really stood out this year. Owners Ken Roberts Sr. and Ken Roberts Jr. (yes, father and son, if you wondered) traveled to Tennessee to accept the award--and it wasn't the first win for the company.

"To receive this industry award in 2004 and now again for 2011 is a tremendous honor," says Roberts, Sr. "We pride ourselves on being a reputable local business that always puts the customer's needs first, and we are delighted that Mohawk recognizes our efforts. We are invested in our community, and as your local flooring provider, we want all of our customers to feel like they are part of the Kiss Carpet family."

Among the criteria Mohawk used in choosing the regional retailer of the year are an increase in sales and business, excellence in promotions, ongoing commitment to training, high store standards, efforts in brand building and merchandising, new installation ideas, and community involvement.

The family-owned and operated Kiss Carpet has three stores; in Mancelona, Harbor Springs and Traverse City.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ken Roberts, Sr., Kiss Carpet Design Center

Traverse City State Bank snags a three-star national rating

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

There's a lot to be said for having a local bank in your community with strong ties to its customers, stakeholders and clients.

Those ties were obvious over the past year for Traverse City State Bank, as it faced an order from the FDIC to improve its asset quality and capital holdings in order to fix operational deficiencies. The order was given in 2010.

Now, the bank has met all of the requirements, in an unusually short time frame, and it's thanking its customers and community for making that possible.

Traverse City State Bank was recently re-rated by independent rating agency Bauer Financial, and attained a three-star rating on a scale of five stars; an upgrade from "problematic" to "adequate" in just over a year.

"We did it the old fashioned way – by working our own way out," says Connie Deneweth, TCSB's president and CEO. "The statistics surrounding our turnaround are quite impressive. The bank has returned to profitability and has added $7.2 million in new capital; its community shareholders have increased from 300 to 350; the last stock offering filled quickly, and there is now a waiting list of potential shareholders."

Part of that turnaround was the confidence local customers and shareholders showed in the bank. Rather than classing it with the rest of the nation's banking problems and turning away, Traverse City residents decided to support their local bank instead. The bank had major growth in mortgage loans, making it the third highest-producing mortgage lender in Grand Traverse County; checking account balances at the bank have increased by 52 percent over last year, and non-performing loans have been reduced significantly.

"We owe every one of our clients and shareholders a big thank you. The bank's board of directors was particularly impressed with our customer and shareholder support. Our clients and community members rallied with us during this challenging time to help Traverse City State Bank. For that we are truly appreciative," says Deneweth.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Connie Deneweth, Traverse City State Bank

Snyder appoints two area residents to state board

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

In place of Michigan's former Council for Labor and Economic Growth, Governor Rick Snyder has announced and created a new board called the Talent Investment Board, to focus on job creation and talent development and connections.

The new board has 47 members, in contrast to the council's previous 71 members, and is overseen by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The governor is on the board, as are four legislators and five state department directors. The other members all were appointed to represent various business, jobs, education and program interests in Michigan.

They included two northwest Michigan representatives; Elaine Wood of the Northwest Michigan Council of Governments, and Katherine Hogan of Hagerty Insurance.

"One of the ways we will reinvent Michigan is to create an environment of job growth and talent development," Snyder says. "I am confident these individuals will use their diverse backgrounds and expertise to help meet these key goals."

Wood, of Traverse City, is CEO of NMCOG, and will advise the board on workforce development and compliance with the federal Workforce Investment Act as well as representing people and organizations who are experienced in workforce investment activities.

Hogan, of Cedar, is VP of corporate training and development for Hagerty Insurance, and specializes in creative and situational leadership. She will represent businesses in Michigan.

The board will be chaired by Gordon White, Jr. of Lansing, of DHR International. Appointed as vice chair was Bing Goei of Grand Rapids, of Eastern Floral. Yet to be appointed is one member of the board to represent Native American businesses and programs.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Governor Rick Snyder, State of Michigan

Michigan's state parks are the best in the nation

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

We sometimes take for granted our wonderful state parks and recreation areas in Michigan, but the National Recreation and Park Association obviously doesn't, because the group awarded Michigan its 2011 Gold Medal, recognizing Michigan's parks as the top state park system in the nation.

The medal is awarded each year out of four finalists; Michigan beat out North Carolina, Florida and Missouri, for the top spot.

"We are very proud to receive this award, and I want to recognize the employees of the Parks and Recreation Division who have worked hard to make sure our 99 state parks and recreation areas remain excellent places for our citizens and visitors to experience Michigan's abundant and amazing natural resources," says DNR Director Rodney Stokes. "This is the result of teamwork, talent and vision that is aimed at protecting our special places, and also making sure that visitors have an enjoyable, high quality experience."

The Gold Medal is given to states that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management, and agency recognition. Each parks agency is judged on its ability to serve the public.

In the DNR's application for consideration, it highlighted innovations like the recreation passport, a $10 optional fee when residents renew their vehicle registrations with the Secretary of State. The passport is a simple sticker on a vehicle's license plate that allows them access to all state parks -- which greatly simplified the previous parks pass system, as well as increasing resident participation. The fees go toward supporting parks, boating access sites, and state forest recreation programs, as well as a grant program for local parks.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Rodney Stokes, Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Northwest Michigan companies selected for economic gardening pilot program

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

A new program from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation has been launched to support small and mid-sized businesses across the state, and seven Northwest Michigan businesses are among them.

There are fifty-four initial companies receiving business development support through the Pure Michigan Business Connect Economic Gardening Pilot Program. Support comes in four areas: strategy and management, market research, Internet and social media strategy, and geographical information systems.

"The goal of this program is to help these second-stage companies grow and in turn, generate new private investment and create new jobs for Michigan," says MEDC CEO and president Michael Finney. "The program is part of our toolkit for economic gardening that’s built on Michigan’s broad asset base of strong corporate enterprises, innovative entrepreneurs and rich technology resources."

In Northwest Michigan, the companies are: Classic Instruments of Boyne City, which builds instruments for the auto industry; Cygnus, Inc. of Petoskey, which makes computer workstations for the healthcare industry; Frontier Computer Corp. of Traverse City, providing global IT solutions; R.M. Young Company of Traverse City, which makes weather instruments; Springfield Commercial Roofing in Kingsley, which provides roofing, building analysis and insulation systems; Alfie of Traverse City, which markets companies through embroidery, screen printing and other products; and Island Airways of Beaver Island, which is a transportation and warehouse company.

The companies were chosen from nominations from local economic development representatives across the state. They were chosen based on the markets they serve, their growth potential, and their likelihood of benefiting from the services.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michael Finney, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Traverse City L&P celebrates 100 years of helping the area keep its lights on

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

It's been 100 years since Traverse City Light and Power first turned on the electricity in the area, and this year the company will be celebrating its centennial.

To kick off the celebration, Traverse City L&P will be donating new, energy efficient LED holiday lights for downtown Traverse City's Christmas tree, which will be located at the intersection of Cass and Front. In addition, the company will be installing over 5,500 strings of new LED holiday lights on the trees lining the downtown streets.

"Light and Power is honored to be a part of the Traverse City community for the last century," says Ed Rice, L&P executive director. "We hope that the community will join us at the holiday event, and throughout 2012, as Light and Power marks its 100th year of providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity to our residents, businesses and industries."

The LED donations are part of the annual Traverse City holiday event, which will take place Dec. 2. Hosted by the Downtown Development Authority and Downtown Traverse City Association, the downtown Holiday Open House begins at 5 p.m. with music on the corner of Cass and Front, followed by Santa’s arrival and tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. L&P will be providing balloons and candy canes to children attending the event, which also includes horse and carriage rides, caroling and live entertainment with a steel drum band.

There will be more events throughout the coming year to celebrate their 100th anniversary, and Traverse City L&P will let customers know via their bill insert and on the company's website.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ed Rice, Traverse City Light and Power

Grand Traverse Metro Fire Station No. 12 earns LEED certification

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Firefighters are always looked to as leaders in the community. These are men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our homes, businesses and families.

So it should come as no surprise that the Grand Traverse Emergency Services Authority is one of the first in the area to have a building certified with LEED Gold status.

LEED, also known as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, certifications are given out by the U.S. Green Building Council for structures that are built and operated in environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places.

The building that earned the certification is the new Grand Traverse metro Fire Station No. 12, which was designed by Jack Knol of Advantage Design with Mark Humitz of Cornwell Architects serving as the LEED consultant for the project.

The fire station, located at 1785 East Silver Lake Road North in Traverse City, has two bays and is over 10,000 square feet in size. There is room to house eight people as well as boasting a training/community room and office space.

According to Knol, the design called for a highly-insulated, energy-efficient building that uses more than 35-percent less energy than a conventional building. This was achieved through the use of insulated concrete forms and high-efficiency lighting. In addition, water usage at the station will be less than normal buildings as well, since the irrigation for the landscaping will come entirely from rainwater runoff from the roof and collected in a 4,000 gallon storage tank. There are also low-flow plumbing fixtures throughout the building.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Jack Knol, Advantage Design

Michigan State viticulture students learning in northwest region

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

As Michigan grows and matures as a wine destination, there's also an increase in interest in professional education in viticulture, or grape-growing, and as any Michigander might expect, that's blossoming at the traditional home of agriculture education in the state, Michigan State University.

MSU's viticulture students are coming to see where the action's at, by studying in northern Michigan among the vines of the Leelanau and surrounding areas.

The university maintains vineyards in both Southwest and Northwest Michigan, in which students can do fieldwork and see for themselves the skills and knowledge needed to make great Michigan wine. One of their professors, Paolo Sabbatini, started out as a student himself, all the way from Italy, home of great winemakers.

Now the research and extension viticulturist for MSU statewide, Sabbatini says the local vineyards are invaluable to students' learning--especially when they are exposed to the actual work a vintner must do, and find out it's not all wine tastings and sunny days.

"There's a romantic notion about being a wine connoisseur that draws some people to viticulture," he says. "So I invite them to work the harvest, which can be 12-hour days. If they come after the first day, then I know that they are serious, and they want to be part of the program."

The students learn about vine physiology in cool climates like ours, and environmental and cultural factors that have an effect on growth, yield, and varieties. Student Jake Emling, from Gladstone in the Upper Peninsula, went from the viticulture program to an internship at Old Mission Peninsula's Chateau Chantal, to study in southern France.

"I've always wanted to work in plant science, but I didn't want to spend the majority of my time in a lab and sitting at a bench," he says. "Growing up in the U.P., I was always outside. I got bitten by the wine bug at Michigan State, and the viticulture program allows me to exercise my science background but work hard outside."

That sounds like just the kind of attitude the next generation of Michigan winemakers should start with.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Paolo Sabbatini, Michigan State University

BaaBaaZuZu products featured by VW

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

Like Volkswagen? Like to buy locally-produced products? Then you're in luck.

BaaBaaZuZu, a Lake Leelanau-based company, has three products currently featured in the Volkswagen DriverGear catalog. The company, which creates wearable art and accessories from upcycled vintage wool sweaters, has its billed cap, skinny scarf and zippered tote available in the catalog, completed with embroidered VW logo. The products can also be purchased online.

If that weren't enough, BaaBaaZuZu also has two pieces featured in the current issue of the famed J. Peterman Company catalog. The skinny chic scarf and bobba hat are both available online as well.

"Our apparel really has universal appeal," says BaaBaaZuZu founder Sue Burns. "We’re of the thought that people generally appreciate quality and style. If they enjoy the products of these phenomenal companies, it’s almost certain they’ll love BaaBaaZuZu."

BaaBaaZuZu makes a large variety of items, including mittens, scarves, bags, purses, jackets and more. The company's products are carried in more than 900 stores and catalogs across the country.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Sue Burns, BaaBaaZuZu

EPA grants watershed funds to Grand Traverse tribe

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

Two new projects that will help restore northern Michigan Great Lakes watersheds hearken back to the days of the Civilian Conservation Corps, as they require the hiring of unemployed workers under the terms of the federal grant funding that makes them possible.

The Environmental Protection Agency announced $1.1 million in funding for two Great Lakes Restoration Initiative projects at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Grand Traverse Band watersheds, which include hiring at least 20 unemployed people for each project to improve wildlife habitats and clean up shorelines.

The projects are part of a $6 million funding challenge EPA issued in August, to get unemployed people back to work in a way that also benefits the environment. The two projects are backed by the National Park Service and Bureau of Indian Affairs, respectively.

"The tremendous response to EPA's challenge underscores the large backlog of Great Lakes restoration projects that are ready to be implemented and the strong support that exists for using a conservation corps model to get the job done," says Susan Hedman, EPA Great Lakes National Program Manager. "This week, EPA is announcing a total of eight restoration projects worth $6.6 million as part of this challenge. Each project will produce immediate, direct ecological benefits and will help to put unemployed people back to work."

The National Park Service gets $891,225 to expand wetland restoration work at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, while the Bureau of Indian Affairs is receiving $255,365 to work on watershed restoration with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. The latter award is part of a larger BIA award that also assigns funding to Great Lakes restoration projects with the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, the Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin and the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Susan Hedman, Environmental Protection Agency

Right Brain's Mangalitsa Pig Porter wins gold medal at Great American Beer Fest

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

It's official: bacon and beer are the best together. We know because the Great American Beer Fest says so, in the form of the gold medal they sent home with Right Brain Brewery's Corey Wentworth for the Mangalitsa Pig Porter they've been brewing.

It started out as a specialty, and maybe even a bit of a novelty, as it uses cold-smoked heads and bones from Mangalitsa pigs raised by farmers for Cherry Capital Foods. (You can read more about the offbeat breed here.)

Right Brain's brewing team entered the smoky, bacon-y porter in the beer festival's experimental category, where it won gold against 82 competitors.

The Great American Beer Festival was held in Colorado and saw 3,930 beer entries from 526 breweries worldwide. A total of 248 medals were awarded across all categories, and gold medals like the one on Right Brain's mantel are awarded for those beers which establish the best examples of their style.

Right Brain Brewery was one of five Michigan breweries to win medals, and one of two to win gold. The other gold medal winner was Bell's Brewery in the aged beer category. Silver medals came home with the New Holland Brewing Co. in the Belgian style lambic and sour ale category, and Redwood Brewing Co. in the sweet stout category. Bastone Brewery also took a bronze medal in the Belgian and French style ale category.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Right Brain Brewery

Munson Medical Center remains magnet hospital

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

For the second time, Munson Medical Center has been designated as a magnet hospital for nursing excellence. The first designation came in 2006, from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

This most recent renewal of the designation began in 2010 with an application process, that culminated in an on-site visit this summer by center surveyors who determined whether Munson still met the ideals of the Magnet Recognition Award for Nursing Excellence. They decided the hospital did, and the second award was received recently.

"This is a very important recognition. We are extremely pleased, proud, and happy for our staff," says Kathleen McManus, executive VP and chief operating officer for Munson Medical Center. "This reinforces the exceptional care, and the exceptional people we have at Munson."

Munson is one of 391 hospitals in the world to receive the award, and one of only two in Michigan. Each award gives the hospital magnet status for four years, during which it must maintain the criteria set in the award.

The program identifies excellence in the delivery of nursing services to patients and residents, and also promotes quality care in a setting that supports professional nursing practice. Another goal is to disseminate best practices in nursing.

That means hospitals with the magnet award have the highest patient care quality and patient satisfaction, as well as lower vacancy and turnover rates for nursing positions, and high levels of job satisfaction among the nursing staff.

"Our patient care is at a high level and it feels great to have that revalidated," says Jim Fischer, VP of patient care services and chief nursing officer. "Not every magnet hospital who applies for redesignation attains it, so this is a real credit to the quality of care that occurs here every day."

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kathleen McManus, Munson Medical Center

Downtown merchants give back 15 percent for Shop Your Community Day

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Traverse City downtown merchants are putting the emphasis on shopping local --maybe some early holiday shopping for the more organized among us--with Shop Your Community Day on Nov. 12.

It works like this: Every purchase made in participating downtown stores that day means 15 percent of the sale goes to a community organization of the customer's choice. A list of both participating stores and participating organizations is available at the Traverse City Downtown Development Association website.

Last year, Shop Your Community Day raised $23,000 for local nonprofits, and the goal for this year is to hit the $25,000 mark.

"We are blessed with a healthy downtown here in Traverse City, but continued support of our local businesses is critical. A commitment to do so during this one-day event will also result in greatly benefiting the nonprofit organizations in our community. This truly is a win-win," says Colleen Paveglio, DDA marketing director.

She adds downtown merchants have a history of supporting local causes and events, and that's not even counting the less-tangible benefits of shopping locally. A local business, as opposed to a national one, keeps three times as much money in the community, contributing to local jobs, neighborhoods and services, according to the DDA.

On the day, shopping bags with balloons will signify participating stores. The event is sponsored by the more than 200 businesses that make up the Downtown Traverse City Association.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Colleen Paveglio, Traverse City Downtown Development Association

DNR releases deer forecast

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

All you have to do is take a drive around and keep a look out at the local gas stations and you're likely going to see a sure sign that deer season is upon us--a truck with a buck lying in the bed.

Deer season is a big part of the local economy this time of year, so it's nice to know that the Department of Natural Resources has been keeping an eye on the deer herd numbers and have sent out a prediction on how the deer seasons could go this year in the Northern Lower Peninsula.

This year, baiting has been reinstated as legal for most of the region, so that should lead to some more success this year. Not that hunters need much more help with the way the numbers keep growing. The herd isn't what biologists would call ideal, but there should be no shortage of opportunity this season.

The DNR indicates that "Mild winter conditions for the second year in a row in the (Northern Lower Peninsula) should lead to increasing deer numbers. Deer numbers on many state land areas appear to be on the rise, though they are still below goal in some areas. In some NLP units, indications are that there is an overabundance of deer on private land but lower than desired populations on public land."

There are antlerless deer licenses available for private land in some areas.

For more information about Michigan's deer season, please visit the DNR website.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Light & Power contributing $1.5 million to Traverse City

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

It's Public Power Week, and while that may be something often taken for granted, the Traverse City Light & Power utility is making residents take notice, with a really, really big check to the city.

TC L&P presented the City of Traverse City with a check for just over $1.5 million for its general fund, which represents 5 percent of the publicly-owned utility's gross revenues for its most recent fiscal year, ended June 30.

"Light and Power strives to provide its customers with safe, reliable and reasonable priced electric service," says Ed Rice, L&P executive director. "The presentation of the check is just another example of Light and Power’s continuing contributions to our community."

By giving back in the form of a check to the general fund, that money becomes available to all city departments, like police, fire, streets, and parks and recreation. It's a fairly regular contribution from L&P, which has given back more than $21 million in funding to the city since 1991.

As Public Power Week continues, the utility also is holding its Energy Smart Open House, including activities like safety demonstrations and making solar energy popcorn, and information like tips on conserving energy.

TC L&P is a community-owned utility that serves more than 11,000 customers in Traverse City and surrounding townships.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ed Rice, Traverse City Light & Power

Munson Healthcare launches new website

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

If the old Munson Healthcare website seemed a little outdated, that might be because it was created about 10 years ago. But that problem has been solved, with the launch of a new website at the same address, munsonhealthcare.org.

It’s been a year in development and focuses on easier navigation and use.

"We are very excited to bring this significantly improved website online," says Kathy Garthe, VP of regional system development and corporate communications. "We believe patients, visitors, physicians, and staff will find the new site is much easier to navigate and loaded with useful information."

It looks cooler, too, and puts quick access as a priority for things like physician and service information, employment opportunities, class and event registration, and even online bill paying? Yup, now you can pay your medical bills online too.

More is yet to come, and Garthe says the key to continual website improvement is user feedback, so don't be shy.

"We’d like to hear feedback so we can continue to expand the kind of information people want in a format that is practical for them," she says.

New sites for Kalkaska Memorial Health Center, Munson Home Health, Munson Healthcare, Munson Medical Center, and Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital all also are online, while sites for Mercy Hospital Cadillac, Mercy Hospital Grayling, Otsego Memorial Hospital, and West Shore Medical Center remain on current platforms.

To provide a comment or suggestions about the new site, email the administrator or webmaster.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Kathy Garthe, Munson Healthcare

BRIM 2011 coming in November with goal of boosting business

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

In the mad rush and daily grind of business, sometimes it's hard to take time out and think about the future, your dreams and visions, and how to keep growing.

The BRIM 2011 conference, which focuses on thought leadership (BRIM stands for Bringing Relentless Innovation to Michigan), is coming to Traverse City to help local business owners, entrepreneurs and executives do just that.

Hosted by local media marketing firm Oneupweb, the conference isn't going to be your typical keynote-seminar-mingling event; it's focused on conversations. Three panels and live Q&A sessions will have attendees interacting with panelists; pitch sessions will connect entrepreneurs with angel investors.

"It’s more than just about inspiring; it’s actually going to provide business owners, marketers and entrepreneurs with the answers they need to succeed," says Oneupweb CEO Lisa Wehr.

The event does require registration, and the deadline to apply is Oct. 24. Applications for registration are limited. BRIM 2011 will take place Nov. 10; visit its website for more details.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Lisa Wehr, Oneupweb

North Peak's newest brew is a hoppy pumpkin ale known as Hooligan

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

It's almost time for ghosts and goblins to be roaming the streets. But, if you just can't wait to get into the Halloween spirit, then head on over to North Peak Brewery and indulge that desire with a pint of Hooligan.

The company's newest brew is a hoppy pumpkin ale that makes it easy to not have to choose between your favorite pumpkin ale and favorite IPA. Hooligan boasts 35 IBUs with 5.5 percent alcohol.

"It’s no trick. This brew delivers all the spicy pumpkin goodness one could ask for, along with a kick of hops," says brewer Ron Jeffries, who along with brewer Mike Hall brings a combined 40 years of brewing experience to their North Peak beer recipes. "Hooligan is brewed with real pumpkin and fresh spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and allspice, oh my). And, did we mention--hops? Hooligan is brimming with locally-grown hops."

So who is this Hooligan you may ask? He is a legendary and impish figure who appears but once a year on Devil’s Night, Oct. 30, the night before Halloween. He lurks through the darkness, traipsing in the shadows from house to house with a rogue gait and a devilish grin on his face. This scoundrel is more mischievous than wicked, yet his reputation for mayhem is wildly known. Anyone who has woken up on Halloween morning to find their pumpkins smashed or yard toilet-papered is familiar with the antics of the Northern Michigan Hooligan.

Hooligan is available only on draft, now through October when the last pumpkin is smashed. Find it throughout Michigan and Ohio, wherever your favorite North Peak beers are sold.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ron Jeffries, North Peak Brewery

Oneupweb looks at three of 2011's most effective campaigns and the strategies behind them

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Oneupweb is in the business of knowing what a strong online marketing campaign looks like, which is exactly why they keep their eye on the different digital strategies taking place.

In a recent webinar, Oneupweb discussed the three most successful digital campaigns thus far in 2011. The webinar, which is archived here, is free and full of great marketing advice.

"Just like great movies, great ads are entertaining and fun," explains CEO Lisa Wehr. "Aside from entertainment, it’s important to learn from the strategies and tactics that make celebrated campaigns so popular and successful."

During the episode, Wehr dissects this year’s most praised online marketing campaigns, and explains how you can refer to the creative, viral and deliverable ads to make your marketing plans more successful.

The webinar is part of a free monthly series by Oneupweb.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Lisa Wehr, Oneupweb

Verizon upgrades towers across Michigan

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Wireless customers expect the best from their carriers, which is exactly why Verizon Wireless recently completed its $850,000 upgrade of 450 antennas on all of its cell sites between Saginaw Bay north to the Mackinac Bridge and east of I-75 to Lake Huron.

The upgrades have not only increased reliability in the area, but it has also increased range for Verizon customers.

The last tower to receive new equipment is in Roscommon, where a nest of osprey chicks had called home since March.

As a result of the project, Verizon Wireless also reports the network has experienced a 10 percent increase in overall traffic month over month for the area. Upgrading cell site antennas is the final phase of bringing the former Alltel network up to Verizon Wireless’ standards.

"Our customers in eastern northern Michigan are able to use their devices in more places, especially in buildings," says David MacBeth, of Verizon Wireless' Michigan region. "We’re constantly refining our network to ensure our customers have the best experience every time they pick up their wireless device."

The company’s ongoing network investment in Michigan now totals more than $1.6 billion.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: David MacBeth, Verizon Wireless

Ollar Consulting celebrates 20-year anniversary

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

In this day and age, it's impressive when a company can push through a decade or so without so much as a hiccup.

Ollar Consulting, a local information technology consulting service based in Traverse City, has done even better. The company is currently celebrating it's 20th anniversary.

"Our team brings over 90 years of combined technical knowledge to local businesses. It has been a pleasure to be of service to local business community for the past 20 years to assist with all of their information technology service needs,” says Daniel Ollar, president of Ollar Consulting.

Ollar Consulting has made its name helping its clients grow and succeed through the effective use of technology. Some of their specializations include computer system support, networking, system design and advanced accounting systems.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Daniel Ollar, Ollar Consulting

Floor Covering Brokers welcomes Barb Nelson as sales associate

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

It's always a pleasure to see a local company doing so well that they are able to add an additional employee to their ranks.

Floor Covering Brokers--the largest, privately-owned floor covering, tile and window treatments retailer in Northwest Michigan--recently announced that they have hired a new sales associate. Barb Nelson comes into the team with plenty of experience in sales and design after owning her own design firm in Harbor Springs for over 10 years before relocating to Traverse City.

Customers will find Nelson available in the Traverse City store where she is available for design and consultation on all types of flooring and window treatments.

Floor Covering Brokers specializes in the design and installation of all types of flooring including: carpet, porcelain and glass tile, natural stone, hardwood, "green" choices, laminate, area rugs, and window treatments.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Floor Covering Brokers

Entire Old Mission hop harvest ends up in local brewer's IPA

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

It’s quite literally farm to table this week at North Peak Brewing, or at least farm to bottle. Hops are being harvested at the Old Mission Hop Exchange Farm and taken the same day to the North Peak Brewing facility in Traverse City.

And, says brewer Ron Jeffries, there are going to be plenty of hops in the new brew, called Hoodoo Midwest Wet Hop IPA.

"Given its strong malt-backed spine, we gave this Hoodoo hops to run," says Jeffries, who works on North Peak beers with brewer Mike Hall. "It starts hoppy, ends hoppy and is nothing but hops in the middle. Well, okay, a little malt in the middle--just enough to keep this Hoodoo from getting fussy. But, it’s pretty much nothing but hops."

Wet hopping is a new technique for Jeffries and Hall, which uses raw, unprocessed hops, straight from the vine, within hours of harvesting. The increased moisture content makes the fresh hops much less bitter than the equivalent in dried hops, which allows the brewers to intensify the hop flavor without the accompanying bitterness.

The brewers are associated with Jolly Pumpkin and Mission Table in Traverse City, which all together form the Northern United Brewing Company, and also have hooked up with Leggitt Farms on the Old Mission Peninsula for a mutually beneficial relationship.

The hops are grown in hopyards on the peninsula, then made into beer. The beer making process produces spent grain, which is fed to Angus and Highland cattle at Leggitt Farms. The cattle produce manure, which is made into fertilizer, which goes back to the hopyards to help grow more hops. It really doesn’t get a lot more local and sustainable than that.

An event celebrating the farm-to-brewer-to-restaurant cycle, "Toast to the Farmers," is scheduled for Oct. 15, during Pumpkin Fest at Jolly Pumpkin/Mission Table.

Leggitt Farms beef can also be found on the menus there, so if you’re feeling locally inclined, you can match a local beef burger with a locally-hopped brew.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Ron Jeffries, North Peak Brewing Company

Traverse Area District Library announces e-book collection is now compatible with the Amazon Kindle

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Librarians are always the best champions of the written word, whether it’s found on a traditional printed page or on your handy e-book reader, and the Traverse Area District Library has just made the latter a lot easier, by opening up its entire e-book collection to cardholders with Kindles.

Not all e-books are the same, and not all are compatible with all readers, but the Kindle is such a popular e-reader that the library had high demand from cardholders to be able to download to their Kindles.

Popular and classic e-books are among the offerings that now can be downloaded to Kindles or devices running the Kindle app, including iPhones, iPads and Androids.

E-books themselves aren’t new to the library, which has been offering downloadable e-books for computers, smartphones, mp3 players and other e-book readers since the spring. The success of the program made the addition of Kindle e-books a natural progression, since more than 4,000 e-books have been downloaded from the library since April, according to Metta Lansdale, Jr., Traverse Area District Library director.

"We have heard from a host of residents waiting for this service," she says. "The additional access allows us to open up public library e-book collections to Kindle customers for the first time, and to continue access for Nook, iPad and other e-readers."

Library cardholders need an online library ID, and then can download up to ten e-books at a time, in the adobe ePub format. It does require setup online from a computer, and your Kindle has to be connected through wi-fi or a USB connection to get the books, which don’t go through Amazon’s e-book delivery program.

And for those who aren’t quite sure what to do with their new Kindle or other e-reader, reference librarian Betsy Myers is offering a free workshop at 10 a.m. on Oct. 24 at the main library branch, in the McGuire Community Room. Registration is required for the session, which includes how-tos on using e-readers, downloading e-books, and the library’s e-book programs. What did we tell you about librarians?

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Metta Lansdale, Jr.

The Improvised Shakespeare Company coming to TC's City Opera House next month

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

If you haven’t made it down to Chicago to catch a show by The Improvised Shakespeare Company yet, you’re in luck, because they are coming to Traverse City.

The important stuff: the show is at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 20 at the Traverse City Opera House, part of the Auto-Owners Insurance Performing Arts 2011-2012 Series, and tickets ($20 to $30) are available at the box office or online.

It’s a comedy show best enjoyed by those who also enjoy Shakespeare, as the references are a liberal mix of the Bard and Monty Python. The concept behind the Improvised Shakespeare Company is genius, as the cast takes one audience comment, and riffs on it for a whole hour of improvised Elizabethan comedy and drama. The comment is simple – a title for an as-yet unwritten Shakespeare play--and the cast develops the theme throughout the show, with motifs and characters from Shakespeare’s repertoire, and plenty of hilarity.

"We’ve grown in many of the ways that someone might expect: a greater facility with Elizabethan language; a better sense of Shakespearean character archetypes and plots; better listeners with richer reactions to discoveries within scenes," says founder Blaine Swen. "But most importantly, we continue to have more and more fun."

Centerstage Chicago calls the show a "modern tribute to the Bard that mixes Shakespearean language and a tone with heaping tablespoons of Monty Python-esque slapstick and wordplay. This indisputably great improv is fueled by smart plot development, stage chemistry and recognizable characters."

The group has taken home awards for 2010 Ensemble of the Year at the Chicago Improv Festival, Best Improv Group at the 2010 Emerging Comics of New York Awards, and Best Comedic Performance by a Group at the 2008 New York Nightlife Awards.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Blaine Swen, The Improvised Shakespeare Company

Versus Technology announces third quarter results

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Versus Technology, Inc in Traverse City announced its third-quarter financial results for the quarter ending July 31, and the news is mixed, depending how you look at it, like financials often are.

First off, Versus had revenues of $1.52 million for the quarter, which was just over a 15 percent decrease from last year’s third quarter. The longer view, of the last nine months’ revenue, was down even further, at $3.89 million in the past nine months, as compared to $6.1 million in the first nine months of 2010, for a 36 percent decrease.

But, the gross profits as a percentage of revenue were up slightly, 72 percent this year versus 70 percent last year. Operating expenses were about on par with 2010, with the year-to-date operating expenses totaling $3.77 million, about 5 percent less than the $3.97 million the company spent on it in 2010.

It all added up to a net loss of $15,000 for the third quarter, a contrast to the net income of $38,000 Versus marked down in the third quarter of 2010. More detailed information is available online from the company.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Joseph Winowiecki, Versus Technology, Inc.

Extreme Entrepreneur Tour makes its way to Traverse City

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Entrepreneu

Traverse City : Innovation + Job News