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A Love Affair with Michigan Beer - Which Ignites Your Passion?

2012-02-06T20:03:00.000-08:00

Craft beer enthusiasts are passionate about Michigan brews…and February is the perfect time to fall in love with rich, chocolately and fruity beers. As you head out with your sweetheart this year for Valentine’s Day, consider ordering up a pint of one of these deliciously romantic Michigan made libations.

 ARBOR BREWING COMPANY, ANN ARBOR
Espresso Love is made with cold-brewed locally roasted coffee and oatmeal for a smooth and creamy texture and rich coffee and chocolate flavor without the coffee bitterness. Espresso Love is currently available around the state from February through May, on draft – in limited qualities. Also look for Milestone Cask Porter – a rich, dark, complex, full-bodied porter with hints of dark chocolate, raisins, black licorice, and currents on the palate, and a smoky, sour finish.

 ARCADIA ALES, BATTLE CREEK
The award-winning Cocoa Loco Triple Chocolate Stout gets its rich flavor from Simpson Chocolate, Weyerman Chocolate and Crisp Chocolate malts. The addition of lactose lends the beer a creamy quality- not unlike a milkshake- while the Blackstrap Molasses adds rich, burnt, syrupy flavors. Flavors of baker’s chocolate and espresso dominate, while rich malty flavors and a subtle kiss of hops add nice balance, making this a truly one-of-a-kind BIG beer.

 ATWATER BREWING, DETROIT
Decadent Dark Chocolate Ale – Craft Beer Lovers and chocoholics unite! This newest offering hits the taps, just in time for Valentine’s Day to compliment the Vanilla Java Porter. A decadent ale that ends with a Dark Chocolate Kiss! Vanilla Java Porter is the featured beer for Valentine’s Day. Vanilla and coffee with chocolate malt is sure to please during anyone’s Valentine’s dinner. Combine this with the sweet taste of a Michigan Cherry salad and the night is almost complete! Or, try Cherry Stout featuring juicy red Michigan grown Montmorency cherries.

 BAD BEAR BREWERY (located in Sleeping Bear Winery), ALBION
Honey Wheat – a classic wheat beer with the nuances of Michigan Honey, Orange Peel, and Spices. It was originally developed as a gift by Brewmaster Red Tackett for the love of his life! She inspired him to make a beer that a non-beer-drinking woman would enjoy. And the love affair continues…

 BELL’S BREWERY, KALAMAZOO
Two Hearted Ale is a 100% Centennial hop IPA, grapefruit & pine aromas, solid malt balance. Bursting with hop aromas ranging from pine resins to grapefruit notes, Two Hearted Ale remains one of the defining American-style India Pale Ales. The Cherry Stout is rich and smooth, matching malty dark chocolate flavors with the tartness of 100% Montmorency cherries grown in Michigan’s Traverse City region.

 BLUE TRACTOR BREWERY, ANN ARBOR
The award winning Schakolad Weizen is a wheat beer made with real chocolate from our neighbors at the Schakolad Chocolate Factory. Also, Chocolate Covered Cherry Stout is a rich stout brewed with chocolate and cherries, purchased from Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, Michigan!

 BREWERY VIVANT, GRAND RAPIDS
Kludde is a Belgian Strong Dark Ale, brewed with star anise, green raisins and dark Belgian candi-sugars, and is best enjoyed under cover of night. This mythological beast is dark, complex, and a big 8.5% ABV. Now available for the first time in cans at finer retailers everywhere. Embrace the darkness!

 DRAGONMEAD MICROBREWERY, WARREN
Redwing Raspberry Wheat Beer is a light wheat beer brewed with natural Raspberry extract and puree. This beer starts with a subtle sweetness and moderate tartness, and finishes with a palate-cleansing raspberry flavor that will leave you begging for more. Honey Porter is a porter with a difference. Dark in color but light in taste. Twenty-five pounds of honey and dark chocolate wheat malt are used to give this beer a refreshingly smooth taste. Give this beer a try even if you don't like dark beers. Or, try Willy's Oompa-Loompa Chocolate Stout. Little more can be said about this beer than these two words: Chocolate and Stout. This brew fills the palate with slightly sweet, super chocolate, malty flavor.

 FORT STREET BREWERY, LINCOLN PARK
Celebrating its 7th birthday on Valentine's Day, and like every other year, they'll spend a week celebrating it, February 13-17. Among other things, expect the release of at least eight new beers – including 7x7 (made with 7 grains and 7 hop varieties), Spite (a 450 IBU IPA), Super Hoppy Sake (a 200 IBU sake) and Of Course I Love You, Now Get Naked! (a chocolate raspberry stout).

 FOUNDERS BREWING COMPANY, GRAND RAPIDS
Curmudgeon's Better Half is the latest release in Founders “Backstage Series,” available February 13. Curmudgeon’s Better Half is a re-branding of the beer formerly known as Kaiser’s Curmudgeon, which has only been served at Founders’ taproom and in extremely limited draft distribution. Curmudgeon is an old ale brewed with molasses and aged on oak; it becomes Better Half after aging—for 254 days—in bourbon barrels that have more recently been aging Michigan maple syrup. As a result, Curmudgeon’s Better Half is a bit sweeter than her miserly counterpart. Appropriately, the beer label depicts her holding a pitcher of syrup for the Curmudgeon’s breakfast, and is released at the perfect time of year for you to buy one for the Better Half in your life. Also check out Founders Porter, described as “Dark, Rich and Sexy,” this beer pours silk black with a creamy tan head. The nose is sweet with a strong chocolate and caramel malt presence and no absence of hops gives this beer the full flavor you deserve and expect…it’s cozy like velvet. This 2010 World Beer Cup silver medalist is described as “a lover, not a fighter.”

 GREENBUSH BREWING, SAWYER
As February is Harbor Country’s “Chocolate Month” Greenbush is participating in its own, special little way. On February 18, Chocolate takes over Greenbush, with three special experimental chocolate beers, chocolate themed food and chocolate drizzled bacon. The beers include: Cracker Chocolate Stout – with white chocolate, honey graham crackers and a few other treats for a whole different kind of breakfast stout; Hechizo Dolor – a mix of cinnamon, dark malts, and a lot of Terra Spice red cocoa powder, creates a beer that emulates a Mexican hot chocolate, in the best possible way (making you all warm and fuzzy, just like a good Valentine should); and The Velvet Valentine – an English brown, best described as smooth, velvety, with just a hint of chocolate in the background.

 HARMONY BREWING, GRAND RAPIDS
Aphrodisiale - A honey chocolate porter with 8% alcohol. Brewed with honey and cocoa nibs, this porter is the perfect Valentine’s date beer!

 JOLLY PUMPKIN, DEXTER / ANN ARBOR / TRAVERSE CITY
iO Saison is the latest release to capture the hearts of art and artisan beer lovers alike. Drawn in by the historic elegance of the label design and then held tight by the rapture of flavors, it will be released in limited quantities, appropriately just in time for Valentine’s Day. iO Saison is brewed in a lovely fashion, with rose hips, rose petals and hibiscus. Yet, don’t be easily deceived by her looks, for like love – she can be oh so dangerous.

 JOLLY PUMPKIN, NORTH PEAK BEER & RIGHT BRAIN BREWERY, TRAVERSE CITY
A collaborative labor of love, the Passion Brew special Valentine’s beer is crafted to benefit local food banks. Each brewery is using the same recipe to create a Warm Winter Brown Ale. This year, the style is more diverse – resulting in dark Belgian style ales with 5.2% ABV and brewed with roasted wheat malt for a robust, well-rounded character. Also brewed into the mix: Old Mission Chinook hops and US Saaz, while three kinds of crystal malt give a hint of candy sugar. Participating breweries will start offering this “Brew with Benefits” on tap Friday, February 10 and it will also be prominently featured that evening at the 3rd Annual Traverse City Winter Microbrew & Music Festival at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

 LIBERTY STREET BREWING COMPANY, PLYMOUTH
Don’t miss the release of Red Velvet on Valentine’s Day, based on the delicious chocolate cake with the rich, red color. Also try Chocolate Covered Cherry, a tap blended mix of our chocolaty Liberty One Porter and Cherry Hard Cider. A very limited release of our award winning Tart Cherry Porter will also be available.

 NEW HOLLAND BREWING COMPANY, HOLLAND
The Poet is a romantic offering for Valentine’s Day. This beer reveals a rich, smooth malt character enveloped in tones of roast and chocolate. A soft mouth-feel brings luxurious flavors and a soothing aroma. The Poet is as versatile as it is delicious – the perfect accent to any chocolate dessert.

 NORTH PEAK BEER, TRAVERSE CITY
Darkangel Cherry Porter is the antithesis of Archangel – the concept that it simply describes the dark side of you that succumbs to temptation. It is your shadow side that insists on not being connected to the light. Darkangel is robust and dry with a finishing touch of tart cherry. The roast barley quickly gives way to subtle chocolate malt and rich Crystal 30. Chinook and Centennial hops put forth a sharp clean bitterness that is followed by a medium-malt body balance with Challenger hops, ending with a smooth-dry, tart finish and strong Galena nose. It is brewed on Old Mission Peninsula, incorporating locally-grown hops.

 REDWOOD LODGE, FLINT
Chocolate, Cherry, Vanilla Porter. Organic cocoa nibs, dried Michigan cherries and bourbon-soaked vanilla beans are added to the traditional Brown Porter, for this sweet Valentine’s beer. Available in Cask Ale only.

 ROCHESTER MILLS BEER CO, ROCHESTER
Paint Creek Porter is a robust beer that features a rich, velvety chocolate malt flavor that will compliment any chocolate dessert.

 SAUGATUCK BREWING, SAUGATUCK
Vanilla Nutmeg Oatmeal Stout is brewed with fresh ground nutmeg and pure vanilla extract. The vanilla, nutmeg, and oatmeal flavors play off of each other to make this a very surprisingly drinkable beer…perfect for sharing with your sweetie.

 SHORT’S BREWING COMPANY, BELLAIRE
Aorta Ale - Originally a part of our Imperial Beer Series, this is the first time that we have brewed and bottled this epic Imperial Red Ale since the inaugural release of the series in 2007. Aside it being a delicious ruby red masterpiece of luscious caramel and toasted malts, balanced with tons of classic American cascade hops, this beer was also a tribute to a good friend and avid Short's supporter who had open heart surgery back in 2006. An active member of "Team Huma" cycling and overall outdoor enthusiast, we nearly lost someone close to us who seemed incredibly healthy, and the last person we would have expected to require something as serious as this. Aorta Ale should be a reminder to all humans who occupy the earth. It represents the beauty and awesome power of the human body and mind, and their abilities. Aorta Ale is also a symbol of life and goodness. It’s a beverage for the people around us who enhance our lives and add value to it. Appropriately released in February, Aorta Ale is the perfect way to honor and thank those who love us, and show them that they are loved in return. "Modest Essential Benevolence of Humanity"

 WALLDORFF BREWPUB, HASTINGS
This year, serving up Cobain’s Double Dark IPA – a Gold Medal winner and Best of Show at the 2010 World Expo of Beer – this beer is a nicely balanced black IPA for the hop-head love birds. Java Brown is a nice winter-time treat combining coffee and beer. A malty, brown ale infused with Chocolate Caramel Macadamia Nut Coffee, this local winter favorite pairs greatly with chocolate desserts on Valentine’s Day!

The MBG board oversees the organization’s administrative and promotional affairs, including four annual public events: Winter Beer Festival in February in Grand Rapids, Summer Beer Festival in July in Ypsilanti, UP Fall Beer Festival in September in Marquette, and Detroit Fall Beer Festival in Detroit in October, as well as its annual Winter Conference in January. Currently, the Guild represents 92 member breweries – the highest number since the organizations inception in 1998.

Michigan’s thriving brewing industry conservatively contributes more than $24 million in wages with a total economic contribution of more than $133 million. In terms of overall number of breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs, Michigan ranks #5 in the nation – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State.”

The Michigan Brewers Guild exists to unify the Michigan brewing community; to increase sales of Michigan-brewed beer through promotions, marketing, public awareness and consumer education; and to monitor and assure a healthy beer industry within the state.

For more information, including a list of Michigan breweries, log on to www.MiBeer.com.

Kent County Hotels & Businesses Unite to Fight Breast Cancer

2012-02-01T08:27:00.001-08:00

This February, local hotels and businesses will be rolling out the pink carpet to educate the community on breast cancer through Susan G. Komen West Michigan

Local hotels and businesses are taking action to end breast cancer by partnering with Susan G. Komen West Michigan for the entire month of February in an endeavor titled Experience Pink. Every 74 seconds, somewhere in the world, someone dies from breast cancer. Experience Pink will spread awareness and raise needed funds for the ongoing fight to end breast cancer.

Show the love – make an impact. The community is encouraged to enjoy a night out at one of the 16 participating Kent County hotels or 30 downtown businesses, knowing a portion of their evening will go towards funding grants to local hospitals and community organizations that provide breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment programs.

“Many families in Kent County are affected by breast cancer as well as many families coming into Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile,” states Doug Small, president Experience Grand Rapids. “Experience Pink is a great collaboration with Susan G. Komen and our tourism industry to give back to the community and help in the continued dedication to finding a cure and providing hope.”

“We are thrilled by the generosity of the community and being afforded the opportunity to bring awareness and an end to breast cancer. 75% of the funds raised by Susan G. Komen West Michigan stay right here in West Michigan, helping women who need it the most. It's a vital service for the 1 in 8 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime,” said Emma Powell, executive director of Susan G. Komen West Michigan.

“The JW Marriott considers it an honor to be taking part in this endeavor and as President of the Kent County Lodging Association we felt it was vital to do something to make a difference and bring the community together. I lost my mom to breast cancer and ever since then my family and I have been very passionate about making a difference. The Experience Pink event allows us all to create awareness, fundraise and change lives, together we are stronger,” said Brian Behler, director of Rooms at the JW Marriott.

“Downtown and its merchants are happy to support this important campaign that is working to end breast cancer and will welcome survivors and their families and friends to Grand Rapids. Our merchants will participate in several ways to show their support and turn the downtown pink,” said Nicole Weichelt, marketing coordinator for the Downtown Alliance.

“We are thrilled to be able to participate in Experience Pink by offering special discounts to breast cancer survivors while also collecting donations for Susan G. Komen West Michigan. We hope to see this campaign grow every year with more businesses and hotels participating,” said Gina VanGessel, owner of Gina’s Boutique.

For a list of participating hotels and businesses go to www.ExperienceGR.com/ExperiencePink. For more information on how you can join the fight to end breast cancer visit www.komenwestmichigan.org.

About Susan G. Komen West Michigan
The West Michigan Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is dedicated to combating breast cancer at every front. Up to 75 percent of the Affiliate’s net income goes toward funding grants to local hospitals and community organizations that provide breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment programs for medically underserved women. The remaining net income (a minimum of 25 percent) supports the national Komen Grants Program, which funds groundbreaking breast cancer research, meritorious awards and educational and scientific programs around the world.

The Komen West Michigan Affiliate’s services area covers Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Ottawa counties. Thanks to the thousands of people who participate in the Susan G. Komen West Michigan Race for the Cure® and other Affiliate events each year, dedicated corporate partners and generous donors, Komen West Michigan is playing a vital role in fighting breast cancer in our community.

About Experience Grand Rapids the convention & visitors bureau
Grand Rapids is the second largest city in Michigan located in the heart of Michigan’s West Coast. This destination provides a remarkable combination of urban sophistication and smalltown warmth in a region of abundant natural resources. Start your experience of Grand Rapids, Kent County and Michigan’s West Coast at www.ExperienceGR.com

Participating Hotels:
For a list of the packages the 16 participating hotels are offering go to, www.ExperienceGR.com/ExperiencePink.

1. Amway Grand Plaza
2. CityFlats Hotel
3. Comfort Inn Airport Grand Rapids
4. Courtyard by Marriott Downtown
5. Hilton Grand Rapids Airport
6. Holiday Inn – Grand Rapids Airport
7. Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown
8. Hyatt Place Grand Rapids - South
9. JW Marriott Grand Rapids
10. Peaches Bed & Breakfast
11. Prince Conference Center at Calvin College
12. Radisson Grand Rapids Riverfront Hotel
13. Ramada Plaza Hotel
14. Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids West
15. Springhill Suites North by Marriott

Valentine Vodka Releases White Blossom

2012-01-31T07:45:00.000-08:00

Spring is a season of awakenings in Michigan – where April showers bring May flowers and May flowers are infused into dazzling artisan spirits like the new White Blossom from Valentine Vodka.

“I like to push the envelope and I always look for unique ingredients and flavors to work with, specifically those from Michigan,” says Rifino Valentine, micro-distiller and owner of Valentine Vodka in Ferndale.

“I actually discovered the elderflower flavor while traveling through Europe. There, it’s often used as an herbal remedy to boost the immune system – it’s one of those natural products that mass-produced vodka distilleries are too afraid to touch.”

Elderflower, with its floral nose and beautiful, unique flavor, was the perfect fit. Also called “sambucus nigra” elderflowers are in season from the end of May to the beginning of June, alongside many other spring blooms like dogwood, or cherry and apple blossoms.

The leaves of the Elderberry plant are feather-like, with 5–9 leaflets and large clusters of small white or cream-colored flowers that bloom in the late spring. The flower heads, which are commonly used in infusions because of their fragrant aroma and distinct flavor, are best collected and used fresh, when the tiny buds have just opened and come to bloom.

“To craft this exquisitely unique flavor, I start with my handcrafted Double Gold Medal-winning vodka,” Rifino says. Valentine Vodka is made of a proprietary blend of red Michigan wheat, two-row malted barley and corn, which all comes directly from Michigan famers and suppliers. “Then, I carefully blend natural elderflower blossoms, with a touch of grapefruit and 100 percent Michigan beet sugar, as a delicate sweetener.”

While most won’t be familiar with the sweet, floral flavors of White Blossom, Rifino says “once they try it, they will be hooked.”

“What a breath of fresh air in the artificial, overdone world of flavored vodka,” says Jim Schramm, Manager & Maî•tre d' of Tre Cugini in Grand Rapids. “White Blossom screams different and made-from- scratch, just like the rest of the Valentine brand.”

The nose of White Blossom is simple and refreshing, like a bouquet of wildflowers picked on a warm spring Michigan afternoon. While the elderflower scent is predominant, there are hints of citrus rolled in sweet, velvety honey that finishes soft and clean. It’s perfectly delightful served on the rocks, or with a splash of natural juices or mixers for a variety of Michigan-themed infusions and signature cocktails

White Blossom is currently available exclusively at Valentine Vodka’s Ferndale cocktail bar and will hit retail shelves in the spring of 2012. The original Valentine Vodka – which hit the market in 2009 – can now be found in more than 900 outlets throughout Michigan and Illinois.

www.ValentineVodka.com

Reprinted from the Spring 2012 issue of Michigan HOME & Lifestyle Magazine. Pick up a copy on newstands now, for a selection of White Blossom recipes.

MBG Presents Inaugural “Tom Burns Award” – Recognizing the Pioneering Spirit of the Great Beer State – to Larry Bell of Bell's Brewery

2012-01-17T14:58:00.001-08:00

Larry Bell (left) with former Detroit City Councilwoman Maryann Mahaffey, Sen. Eugene McCarthy, and Tom Burns (right) taken July 11, 1991 at Tiger Stadium by Scott Brooks.

Nearly 200 leaders in the state’s craft brewing industry were present at the Michigan Brewers Guild annual conference which took place at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire last week, where the inaugural “Tom Burns Award” – recognizing the pioneering spirit of the “Great Beer State” – was presented to Larry Bell of Bell’s Brewery in Galesburg, Michigan.

According to Eric Briggeman, President of the Michigan Brewers Guild, Larry Bell was one of four nominees for the award, the others being Ron Jeffries from Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, Fred Bueltmann from New Holland Brewing Co., and John Linardos from Motor City Brewing Works.

The award was named after Detroit & Mackinac Brewing Company founder and brewer, Tom Burns, who passed away of cancer May 1, 1994. Burns, a “recovering attorney” whose passion was brewing, is credited with many of the advancements in brewing legislation, rules, and regulations in the 1990s which paved the way for a thriving industry which is currently ranked #5 nationally.

“The nominations were submitted by members of the Guild’s Board of Directors and Government Affairs Committee,” Briggeman stated. “Tom Burns truly was a pioneer for the Michigan brewing industry, and the Guild felt that naming this award after him was a great way to honor Tom as a person, while recognizing his legacy that has been the foundation for the “Great Beer State!’”

Briggeman was joined by Priscilla Burns, Tom’s widow, and Tom Brandel, close friend and founder of Tom’s Oyster Bar, for the presentation.

“Each of the four nominees were qualified candidates for this award,” Briggeman said. “Yet, given the fact that Larry holds the oldest ‘microbrewery’ license in Michigan, and he worked very closely with Tom Burns on shaping our state’s brewing legislation in the early 1990s, we felt he was the clear choice as the recipient of this inaugural award.”

Laura Bell accepted the award on behalf of Larry, who was out of the country and unable to attend. She read this letter sent from Larry, addressed to the group:

“Everyone in this room has been affected by Tom's efforts back in the nineties. His push for, and success at getting brewpub language adopted in the state laws paved the way for what is now one of the most dynamic brewery scenes in the USA. While there may be those today that think that trading away self distribution wasn't right, Tom and I thought we cut a pretty damn good deal, and I still think that.

Tom was able to get legislation enacted because he knew the importance of building consensus, and he knew that it was essential to have dialogue with all of the legislators involved, as well as reaching out openly, and with a eye toward fairness, to Michigan's wholesalers; he respected the realities of the situation while trying to enact change. And enact change he did.

I am glad that we are honoring Tom as I feel that his contributions to the early days of craft brewing are often buried by people who want to take more credit than they deserve. He was one of those people who was there at the dawn of the movement. I have in my collection a bottle of "Legal Lager" that Tom brewed at the Cartwright Brewing Co. in Portland back in the early eighties when, I believe he was in law school. He brewed at the goat shed with Boulder Brewing. And he was in on the start of the then American Homebrewers Association Beer Festival, now the GABF [Great American Beer Festival].

It was heartbreaking to see Tom get sick. Having been through a "mild" cancer myself I have an inkling of the terror it brings to ones soul. But Tom was always upbeat when I saw him and never became morose, even as his diagnosis got worse.

I was very honored to be asked by Priscilla to be the brewer representative pall bearer at Tom's funeral. It was a difficult day for me. To see one's contemporary die too young is a very troubling thing. After the funeral service we went to Tom's Oyster Bar, a place Mr. Burns loved to go, and I stood in for him – singing show tunes with the piano player as a way to pay my respects. Tom loved a good show tune. And a great beer.

Though Tom's life was too short he left an important legacy that we all can honor and that honors us all. I was proud to call him a friend and I am proud of the Guild for honoring him today. So please, let's raise our glass and toast Tom Burns.”

Larry Bell moved to Kalamazoo in 1976 to study history at Kalamazoo College, seven years before opening the homebrew shop that would soon grow into Bell’s Brewery. He opened Bell’s Brewery in 1985, with a 15-gallon soup kettle and $200. Since then, he has grown Bell’s into one of the largest regional craft breweries in the country.

In more than 26 years of brewing, Larry has been actively involved in shaping the craft beer industry in the United States. He was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Institute for Brewing Studies, sat on the Board of Directors for the Association of Brewer’s, and was the Inaugural President of the Michigan Brewer’s Guild. He currently is active as an Ex-Officio board member of the Beer Institute, as well as a member of the American Malting Barley Association Board of Directors. In 2010, Larry was honored with the Brewer’s Association Recognition Award.

Larry is also an active member in Kalamazoo and has been a board member for the Kalamazoo Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and the Economic Development Corporation of Kalamazoo. He is beginning his first year as a board member for the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. In 2010, Larry was presented with the Distinguished Achievement Award from his Alma Mater, Kalamazoo College.

Larry spends his time between Chicago, Kalamazoo and the Upper Peninsula. He enjoys traveling, the Chicago Cubs, and is an active collector of art, breweriana, and maps, among other things.

ABOUT THE MICHIGAN BREWERS GUILD
Founded in 1997 and celebrating its 15th year, the Michigan Brewers Guild oversees the organization’s administrative and promotional affairs, including four annual public events: Winter Beer Festival in February in Grand Rapids, Summer Beer Festival in July in Ypsilanti, UP Fall Beer Festival in September and Detroit Fall Beer Festival in October, as well as its annual Winter Conference in January. Currently, the Guild represents 89 member breweries – the highest number since the organizations inception.

Michigan’s thriving brewing industry conservatively contributes over $24 million in wages with a total economic contribution of more than $133 million. In terms of overall number breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs, Michigan ranks #5 in the nation – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State.”

The Michigan Brewers Guild exists to unify the Michigan brewing community; to increase sales of Michigan-brewed beer through promotions, marketing, public awareness and consumer education; and to monitor and assure a healthy beer industry within the state. For more information, including a list of Michigan microbreweries, log on to www.michiganbrewersguild.org.

Art From Michigan's Wine Country: Taste the Passion This February in Glen Arbor

2012-01-16T17:34:00.001-08:00

Friday, February 3rd (6-8pm)
Mountain Flowers Lodge
The Homestead Resort
Glen Arbor, Michigan

Great art, wine and food are the main events of a special evening which kicks off the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association’s Taste the Passion weekend. For a fourth year, this fun winter event features wine from Leelanau wineries, original art by local artists and a fabulous small plates menu designed by The Homestead’s Chef Piombo.

The price is $20 per person advance reservation by February 2 and includes one glass of wine and food stations with delectable small plates and coffee. Additional wine available for $4/glass or three glasses for $10. Call The Homestead, 334-5100, to make a reservation with will call ticket at the door for pre-paid reservations. $25 per person admission at the door.

The invitational art exhibit and sale offers recent original works by nine Leelanau artists. The artists will be on hand to discuss their work. This is a great opportunity to meet local artists and celebrate a perfect pairing of wine and art. A portion of the art sales will benefit GAAA’s summer programs.

Five dollars of each ticket goes to support the Glen Arbor Art Association class scholarships and a free after-school art program for Glen Lake students. Scholarship assistance and the after-school art program provide arts opportunities for those who could not otherwise afford art classes.

For more information go to:
www.glenarborart.org
www.thehomesteadresort.com
www.lpwines.com

Or call the GAAA office at 334-6112

Saugatuck Brewing Company Announces Winter Tasting Series (January - April, 2012)

2012-01-16T17:12:00.001-08:00

SBC will be conducting 4 tasting events at the brewery to be held on the last Thursdays of January, February, March and April at 7pm.

The themes will be:

• January 26 – “Different Yeasts/Different Flavors”
• February 23 – “Different Hops/Different Flavors”
• March 29 – “Understanding Beer Styles”
• April 26 – “Specialty Beers”

The tastings will be lead by SBC sales manager Scott Farney and brewer Dexter Gauntlett. Admission will be $10 at the door ($8 for Pint Club members).

Saugatuck Brewing Co. is a microbrewery with a traditional Irish style pub and upscale banquet room (The Singapore Room) that features hand crafted beer, wine, food, and service. Fifteen unique beer styles, all brewed in house, plus wine and hard cider are served daily in the Pub. “SBC” also distributes five styles in 6 and 4-packs throughout lower Michigan. The brewery also features the only active brew-on-premise facility in Michigan, utilizing five copper kettles and an array of natural ingredients and recipes, for the public to become “Brewmaster for a Day.”

Saugatuck Brewing Company
2948 Blue Star Hwy.
Douglas, MI 49406
(269) 857-7222

www.saugatuckbrewing.com
www.facebook.com/saugatuckbrewingcompany

Food Dance Staff Mentors Students in Hospitality Services Program at Van Buren Technology Center

2012-01-10T03:59:00.000-08:00

Hands-on educational programming in the culinary arts are growing at a rapid pace throughout Michigan – not just at the college level, but at several vocational high schools around the state. The Van Buren Technology Center (250 South Street, Lawrence) currently has roughly 50 students enrolled in its “Hospitality Services” program, which is taught by Patti Kenworthy and Diana Stump. The culinary team at Food Dance in Kalamazoo has launched a mentoring program aimed to help educate these students about various aspects of the industry.

“Our students have divided into teams of 4-5 and they are working on coming up with their theme of their restaurant, type of food and menu items,” says Meg Zapalowski, their Integrated English teacher. “The challenge here is to use as many local resources as possible to create the menu. Students are encouraged to research local farms online to find out what products they produce and sell to the public, visit local farms or talk to local residents about where they find local produce or visit local farmers markets – both indoors and out.”

As part of the program, Food Dance Chef Robb Hammond recently visited with the hospitality students to share a presentation about the restaurant’s philosophy, its relationship with local farmers and how he developed the specific menu.

Later this semester, the top team will travel to Kalamazoo for a behind-the-scenes tour of Food Dance to see what it takes to run a locally-focused, farm-to-table restaurant. Students will also have lunch and have their winning entrée featured on the menu.

Students at the VBTC study the art of cooking and gain the organizational skills needed to work in or manage a professional restaurant in either the one- or two-year program. Specifically, students learn how to plan and prepare a variety of foods operating commercial equipment; develop the culinary techniques for good food presentation; prepare for a catering event, serve professionally and provide good customer service; and then they’re given the opportunity to practice these skills in a real-world environment… with real customers.

At the completion of the program, students can receive Pro Start certification or begin the American Culinary Federation (AFC) certification. These levels of instruction prepare students for careers as cooks, chefs, kitchen managers, caterers, pastry chefs, servers and restaurant owner.

Food Dance is a locally-owned business, committed to building an informed and healthy community. The entire team works to provide great experiences, with food that are created through symbiotic relationships with local farmers, cheese makers and producers. Food Dance works hard to provide a positive and rewarding work environment that fosters long-term sustainability, for both its staff and the local community.

www.FoodDance.net
www.facebook.com/FoodDance

Trattoria Stella in Traverse City Kicks Off 2012 with Wine & Beer Dinners

2012-01-03T07:16:00.000-08:00

A new year means a new series of wine and beer dinners at one of Michigan’s most noted restaurants – Trattoria Stella, in Traverse City at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

Tuesday, January 10 thru Sunday, January 15
Michigan Beer Dinners Featuring Short’s Brewing Company and Brewery Vivant
The diversity of excellent craft beer inspires us each year to create daily menu items and annual events to honor them. This year, when planning our annual Winter Beer Dinner, we wondered what inspired these brewers (Joe Short from Short’s Brewing Company and Jason Spaulding from Brewery Vivant) to create their favorite beers. We called on two friends whose styles are way different to explore this. Now, for most of a week you can join us (and them on some nights) for four courses each paired with either a Short's or Brewery Vivant beer and the beer that inspired its creation. Each evening beginning at 5pm, in addition to our regular dinner menu-reservations are recommended. Cost is $35 per guest for our 4-course tasting menu, $10 per guest for paired beer flight.

Friday, January 20 (6pm)
Winemaker Dinner with Giorgio Rivetti of La Spinetta (Piemonte e Toscana) and featuring the talents of Chef Harlan “Pete” Peterson (Tapawingo), partnered with Chef Myles Anton.
Giorgio Rivetti is a rock star winemaker at La Spinetta. His family story begins in the 1890s, when Giovanni Rivetti – grandfather of the three Rivetti brothers: Carlo, Bruno and Giorgio – left Piedmont for Argentina. Like many Italians of that time, he dreamed of returning rich and a powerful man, perhaps even one day able to make a great wine in his homeland. While he never succeeded in this dream, his grandson did. In 1977 the family took up residence at La Spinetta (top of the hill) in Castagnole Lanze. In 1985 La Spinetta made its first red wine, and after this many great reds followed. In 2001 La Spinetta expanded over the borders of Piedmont and acquired 65 hectares of vineyards in Tuscany, between Pisa and Volterra, to make three different 100% Sangiovese wines, as Sangiovese to La Spinetta is the true ambassador of the Tuscan terrain.

Chef Harlan “Pete” Peterson, owned and operated Tapawingo in Ellsworth for a couple of decades – arguably the best restaurant in Michigan during its long run and “the best restaurant anywhere in the country that's a four-hour drive from the closest major city" according to the New York Times in 2003.

At $150 per person (inclusive of tax/gratuity), the six-course dinner features the finest selections from Giorgio’s portfolio, including: Contratto Millesimato Brut 2007, La Spinetta Vermentino Toscana 2010, La Spinetta Langhe Bianco Sauvignon Blanc Piemonte 2003, La Spinetta Bionzo Barbera Piemonte 2003 (out of magnum); La Spinetta Sezzana Sangiovese Toscana 2001 (out of magnum) and La Spinetta Bordini Barbaresco 2007.

Trattoria Stella opened in 2004 and is the anchor business in the quarter-mile-long Building 50 at the former Northern Michigan Asylum. Stella offers a daily changing menu featuring responsibly-sourced ingredients from local farms, including heritage breeds of pig, lamb and steer; year-round fresh produce; plus house-made pasta, bread and fresh cheeses; as well as a wine list of over 200 carefully curated selections. Stella is owned and operated by Paul and Amanda Danielson, along with the award-winning Chef Myles Anton.

OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
February 26-March 3, 2012
Traverse City Restaurant Week

Thursday, April 19
France vs. Italy Dinner
$150 per guest inclusive of tax and gratuity

Sunday, May 13 Mothers’ Day (Noon – 7pm)
Mama Mia!

Thursday, June 7
6TH Annual Wines of Old Mission Peninsula Dinner

Sunday, June 17 (Noon – 4pm)
Annual Father’s Day “Stellar” Picnic on the Great Lawn

July 7-14
Charley Festival during Cherry Festival

HOURS
Please note that the hours listed are times during which we seat guests in the dining room. Closing time is determined by the last guests to complete their meal, so don't ever feel like you have to sit down in time to be out by the latest listed time below. Reservations are always recommended and can be made by calling (231) 929-8989.

Regular Hours
Full Lunch Menu
Monday-Saturday, 11:30am-3pm

Limited Lunch Menu
Monday-Saturday, 3-5pm

Dinner Menu
Sunday, 5-9pm
Monday-Thursday, 5-9pm
Friday & Saturday, 5-10pm

Live Music
Tuesdays, 6-9pm

Changes to Regular Hours
SUN 02/05 - Super Bowl Sunday - CLOSED

Trattoria Stella
1200 West Eleventh Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
231-929-8989
www.StellaTC.com
Trattoria Stella Facebook

Salt of the Earth Announces 3rd Annual Michigan Wine & Beer Dinner Series

2011-12-29T06:26:00.000-08:00

In what has become a wildly-popular winter/spring tradition, West Michigan’s Salt of the Earth announces its third-annual monthly Michigan Wine & Beer Dinner Series at its downtown Fennville rustic American eatery, starting on January 11 and running through June 20.

“We’re excited to continue this unique experience where we showcase the finest Michigan beverages paired with our own style of casual cuisine,” says proprietor Mark Schrock. “Winemakers and brewers are present at each event, along with a very special lineup of guest chefs from around the state. We invite you to come celebrate the best of Michigan food and beverage with us!”

The 2012 series will span six months and feature Michigan wineries and breweries exclusively. Multiple courses will be served at each event, paired with the best from each producer. Many taste selections are from wine and beer maker’s personal cellars that are not always available to the public. A “Guest Chef” will also join SotE Chef Matthew Pietsch in the kitchen to prepare the evening’s locally-infused menu.

The series kicks off on Wednesday, January 11 at 7:00PM when the SotE team – along with Chef Drew Turnipseed from Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids – will prepare its first “Wine Meets Beer” themed dinner – a double-tasting, featuring wines from nearby Fenn Valley Vineyards and beer from Grand Rapids’ Brewery Vivant. The five-course menu includes: Course 1 – Salt / Vivant Cured Meats (pork – venison – lamb – beer wort); Course 2 – Soup & Salad (peach – turnip – rye – poppyseed); Course 3 – Swedish Chef (char – potato – beef – parsnip – smoke); Course 4 – Duck, Duck, Goose (confit – roast – poach – squash); and Course 5 – Doughnuts! (sour cream – yeast leavened – cake). Cost is $65 plus tax & gratuity. Reservations are required, call 269-561-SALT (7258).

ABOUT THE PLAYERS:
Brewery Vivant opened its doors in late 2010 under the ownership of former New Holland Brewery founder Jason Spaulding, and his wife, Kris. Their aim is to create a world-class experience through beer and food. With a bent toward Belgian styles of beer, Brewmaster Jacob Derylo is constantly experimenting with the highest quality ingredients at his disposal. Additionally, they are now distributing throughout the state with plans to service Chicago in early 2012. Although a natural in producing amazing food, Chef Drew Turnipseed attended culinary school at the Art Institute of New York City. He is a trained sommelier through the International Wine Center and holds a graduate certificate in Food and Beverage Operation from New York University. His experience ranges from the vineyards in Bordeaux, France to an adventure lodge in Alaska, to the catering company he and his wife Lauron started in Southwest Michigan. (www.BreweryVivant.com).

Fenn Valley Vineyards is a family owned and operated vineyard and winery complex established in 1973. Their goal then, as it is now, was to produce world-class wines from grapes grown along the Eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The Fenn Valley estate is a 230 acre farm located five miles from Lake Michigan just south of Holland, Michigan. Fenn Valley continues to be a progressive estate bottled winery, growing the grapes that are processed in the cellars. The vineyards are located on the top of a large sand ridge that extends inland from Lake Michigan between the Black River and the Kalamazoo River valleys – in one of four federally-recognized viticultural areas in Michigan. The vineyards are being expanded as new varieties are tried and additional plantings are made of those varieties that prove to be successful. The numerous awards and medals that Fenn Valley continues to receive for its wines attest to the fact that they are always keeping an eye on quality. (www.fennvalley.com).

Salt of the Earth is a rustic American eatery and bakery, tucked away in a historic building in quaint downtown Fennville – in the heart of the Southwest Michigan’s thriving agricultural region. Under the direction of Chef Matthew Pietsch (protégé of ‘Iron Chef’ Michael Symon), this full service restaurant offers a seasonal menu of made-from-scratch entrees, shared plates, wood-fired oven pizzas, pastas, sandwiches and creative desserts – using fresh ingredients, often sourced locally. Artisan bread is baked in house, served with dinner and available to take home. You’ll also find a bar stocked with an impressive selection of Michigan wines, craft beers, and spirit, alongside other domestic and international selections. Salt of the Earth is also a popular venue for local and regional musical artists, with live house concerts held weekly. Winter Hours: Dinner served Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 5-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10pm. Fresh baked artisan bread is available at the restaurant during dining hours and at select local retail outlets.

What others are saying-

“ Salt of the Earth has done so much with their Michigan wine dinner series, to raise awareness of the quality revolution taking place in Michigan's wine industry, that they deserve an award – if one existed,” says Jim Lester, owner of Wyncroft Winery and a three-time series participant.

“We have always enjoyed the food at Salt of the Earth, but, the wine and beer dinners really elevate their take on local cuisine to new heights,” says Brian Cain – Grand Rapids Magazine wine columnist. “The braised brisket served at the Short’s beer dinner is the best I have ever eaten!”

“My wife and I have attended three of the dinners…great food, great wines, lots of friendly folks to meet,” says Bill Koski, manger at Rose’s on Reeds Lake and coordinator of the “Wine School” at the Gilmore Collection in Grand Rapids.

2012 SotE Michigan Wine & Beer Series Schedule

Wednesday January 11
“Wine Meets Beer”
Double tasting event with Fenn Valley Winery and Brewery Vivant and five courses.
Winemaker: Doug Welsch | Brewer: Jason Spaulding | Guest Chef: Drew Turnipseed, Brewery Vivant $65

Wednesday February 8
“Rustic Bubbles- v2”
L. Mawby/M.Lawrence
Michigan sparkling wines, with appetizers and canapés.
Winemaker: Mike Laing | Guest Chef: Jesse Hahn, Trailer Park’d & Fork in the Road restaurant $45

Wednesday March 14
“Jolly Pumpkin & North Peak Beer Dinner”

Wednesday April 18
“WOMP Wine Dinner”
Seven Old Mission wineries, seven courses!

Wednesday May 16
“Founders Beer Dinner”

Wednesday June 20
“Wyncroft Summer Wine Dinner”

Salt of the Earth
114 East Main Street
Fennville MI 49408
269.561.SALT (7258)

www.saltoftheearthfennville.com
www.facebook.com/saltoftheearthfennville

Northern United Brewing Company Takes “Civilized Spirits” Statewide - Just in Time for the New Year!

2011-12-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the New Year, Northern United Brewing Company delivers two of its Civilized Spirits – Vodka and Sakura – to retail accounts throughout the state. General Wine & Spirits has added Civilized Spirits to its portfolio and spirit-connoisseurs will now be able to seek out these Michigan-made liquors at retails stores, restaurants and bars around the Great Lakes State.

Previously, Civilized Spirits have only been available at Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin restaurants on Old Mission Peninsula, just north of Traverse City. Additional spirits – rum, whiskey and gin – which are currently available exclusively at Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin, will be released state-wide in the coming months.

Civilized Spirits are created in a forest hideaway on the Old Mission Peninsula, a site with a long tradition of distillation. Spirits have been made on the site since the late 1800s when it was built by lumber baron J.W. Stickney and his wife, Genevive. Civilized Spirits is a family of liquors created for the woodland gentleman of yore – the sort of man who cut wood for a living and wrestled grizzlies for fun, but still found time to wax his mustache and comb some pomade through his hair. Although the grizzlies may have gone, the legacy of dedication and appreciation of artisanal spirits lives on in every hand-bottled Civilized Spirit.

Master Distiller Mike Hall is the big gun on Old Mission Peninsula. A native of Nova Scotia, he is ultimately responsible for the sublime list of artisanal Civilized Spirits. A world-renowned distiller, brewer, designer and educator, Hall is also a Senior Member of The European Institute and Guild of Brewing. He has trained more than 100 brewers and distillers during his career and has also designed, built and installed over 60 breweries and distilleries around from as far way as Siberia to the Bahamas, as well as several here in Michigan.

Civilized Spirits are produced through the grand collaboration between Hall and brewer/distiller Ron Jeffries, handcrafted from the fruit of the Northern Michigan landscape. Grapes are picked from vineyards on the property, as well as from throughout Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas; cherries are harvested from the Old Mission Peninsula, while sugar beets are grown in the fertile soils downstate in Eastern Michigan near Saginaw/Bay City. Locally-grown ingredients such as these enable Hall to distill remarkable vodka, sakura, whiskey, gin and rum, with unique character, smoothness and flavor.

“Jon and I grew up on the Old Mission Peninsula,” recalls Greg Lobdell, who – along with Jon Carlson, Ron Jeffries and Mike Hall, are the managing partners of Northern United Brewing Company, in Traverse City – the parent company for Civilized Spirits. “As children, we used to pick buckets of cherries and set up a stand downtown on Front Street and sell them during the Cherry Festival parade. I remember picking cherries for two days and then working all day selling them at the parade. I think we brought home $12 for the three days work and we were the happiest kids in the world. It is only fitting that we are now distilling cherries from the same trees on Old Mission Peninsula, making Sakura, and distributing it throughout the state.”

CIVILIZED SPIRIT DESCRIPTIONS:

VODKA (Percent Alcohol: 40 | Proof: 80) — Smooth as the bay waters at daybreak, subtle as a fleeting wisp of cool summer breeze. Proper manners dictate you put on your good shirt for Civilized Vodka, even though it will always extend you the courtesy of its company, and clean finish. Descended from wine borne of Northern Michigan Riesling vines, this vodka graciously hints at its ingredients with a bouquet of grape and clean finish. And finish it off is what you’ll be tempted to do. Distilled in the ways of the north woods, every bottle of Civilized Vodka has the social graces to complement and enhance the flavors of any cocktail or confidently stand alone. This vodka is as pure as the spring water at its heart and as approachable as the community in which it’s made.

SAKURA (Percent Alcohol: 40 | Proof: 80) — Although the first cherry trees were planted in the 1600, we have Peter Dougherty to thank for making a good thing great. He searched for the perfect combination of rich soil and weather patterns that lend to healthy cherry trees for the best tasting cherries on the planet. He was the first to bring cherry pits to the Old Mission Peninsula in 1852. This cherry vodka is hand-crafted in a custom-built still and with each level of distillation, the purest spirit rains though the 23 caps and trays of the still. The distillation of cherries from Traverse City’s finest orchards is expensive, but it produces a character that is unmatched. The distilled cherries blend well with our distilled vodka and the natural cherry flavor renders it delightfully smooth, with a cherry nose and distinct cherry sweetness. This cherry flavored vodka is perfect for sipping or mixing!

Northern United Brewing Co. encompasses the North Peak, Grizzly Peak and Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales craft beer brands, as well as the Bonafide Wines and Civilized Spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally-sustainable practices. All of the NUBC beverages are produced at either the 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table (former Bowers Harbor Inn) restaurant or at the original Jolly Pumpkin facility in Dexter. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

www.civilizedspirits.com
www.facebook.com/civilizedspirits
www.drinkcivilized.com

Michigan's Homestead Resort Offers the Friendliest Family Pricing

2011-12-13T13:36:00.000-08:00

The Homestead announced today that it is taking strong steps to encourage families to ski and ride – kids 17 and under will ski and ride free.

There are only three restrictions and there’s no fine print. The restrictions are:

• The family must be registered guests at The Homestead.
• At least one parent must have purchased a same day, all day lift ticket.
• Proof of relationship must be presented.

This offer is available every day of the season, including holidays, as there are no blackout dates. Call 231.334.5100 for reservations.

Jamie Jewell, a Vice President of the resort stated: “Industry research showed that younger people are not pursuing outdoor winter recreation opportunities that lead to healthy, lifetime skills. This goal of this offering was to make those outdoor opportunities accessible to families with the next generation of skiers and riders." Those first time visitors who pursue this opportunity will discover a place that’s luxurious yet relaxed, nearby yet far away. They’ll also discover the beauty of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the place the viewers of ABC’s Good Morning America chose as “America’s Most Beautiful Place.”

Repeat visitors will be welcomed back with a gift commemorating ABC’s recognition. While here, they will see and enjoy new facilities and services made possible with $1.5 million in improvements that were made to the property this year.

www.TheHomesteadResort.com

Enjoy the Tastes of the Season with North Peak’s Blitzen Festivus Ale

2011-12-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays, North Peak’s delivers its latest seasonal brew: Blitzen Festivus Ale – a gift to celebrate a joyous holiday feast from the enchanting Northern Magical Wood Elf.

The raisin, currant and berry notes in Blitzen are attributed to Bramling Cross hops, three types of Crystal malts, cara and Chocolate malt, which rounds out the flavors and aromas, with a hint of burnt sugar and chocolate. A combination of citrus peel and citrus pith flavors are accented by Hercules, Cascade and Pilgrim hops added throughout the boil. The subtle spiciness of Riwaka’s hops, combined with the crisp spiciness from rye malt, presents liberated flavors, reminiscent of savory holiday cakes.

“Blitzen, like all of the North Peak beverages, is born out of Northern lore,” says Jon Carlson, who – along with Greg Lobdell, Ron Jeffries and Mike Hall, are the managing partners of Northern United Brewing Company, in Traverse City. “We created this beer to celebrate the holiday season this winter! It is the perfect beer to drink while competing in ‘Feats of Strength’ or to share with your loved ones during the ‘Airing of Grievances.’"

With 55 IBUs and 6.8% ABV, the well-balanced Blitzen warms the palate and soul, awakening memories of holidays past. As with the other North Peak beers, it is brewed incorporating locally-grown hops on the Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City. Blitzen is available through the holiday season. Find it on draft and in six-pack stubby bottles throughout Michigan and Ohio, wherever your favorite North Peak beers are sold.

The North Peak is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales craft beer brands, as well as the soon-to-be-released Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table (former Bowers Harbor Inn) restaurant or at the original Jolly Pumpkin facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Northern United Brewing Company
Jolly Pumpkin Brewery | Mission Table at Bowers Harbor Inn
13512 Peninsula Drive
Traverse City, MI 49686
(231) 223-4222
www.NorthPeakBeer.com
www.MissionTable.net

Reserve Wine & Food Boasts One of the World's Largest Cruvinet Wine Systems

2011-11-28T05:29:00.000-08:00

Reserve Wine & Food is home to one of the country’s largest cruvinet systems, holding 102 wines that are served by the glass. As the focal point of the bar area, the cruvinet system – with its hand-blown glass from local artist Joe Sherry – stretches some 36 feet (3 rows, 12 feet each) and is proudly displayed under the 2009 ArtPrize winning entry, Open Water, by Ran Ortner.

The cruvinet is a custom-build, temperature-controlled wine preservation system that works much like a keg system for beer taps. The cruvinet pumps nitrogen into the bottle of wine as wine is poured through a different set of tubing. This creates a barrier of gas between the wine and potential oxygen, therefore, extending the life of the wine for as long as six weeks.

“This intricate wine preservation system extends the life of wine exponentially, giving Reserve the liberty to offer a wider range of varietals and price points,” says Peter Marantette, General Manager. “We can now pour a bottle that other restaurants wouldn’t dream of opening, for fear that they wouldn’t sell it before the wine turned.”

There are only a handful of restaurants and bars in Michigan that use a cruvinet system, most of those under 25 taps. Even on a national and international scale, few are as impressive as that which Reserve operates – most claim between 25 and 55 taps. The Ristorante Panorama inside Philadelphia’s Penn’s View Hotel has a 120-bottle cruvinet system and is believe to hold the “Guiness Book of World Records” for the largest system of its kind in the nation.

“To the best of my knowledge, the cruvinet in Pennsylvania is the only system out there that is larger than Reserve’s,” Marantette says. “We definitely operate the largest system of this kind in Michigan and the Midwest.”

Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids at 201 Monroe Avenue NW, Reserve Wine & Food offers a world-class menu fully embracing the West Michigan farm-to-table philosophy, paired with over 100 wines available by the glass and 200 wines by the bottle, in an elegant yet casual fine dining setting. In the fall of 2011, Reserve was named a winner of OpenTable Diner’s Choice Awards for Top Wine Lists in the United States, one of only two restaurants in Michigan to be recognized.

Attendance Jumps More Than 12% at 4th Annual GR International Wine, Beer & Food Festival

2011-11-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

Organizers of the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival are happy to report that attendance jumped more than 12% – to some 12,000 people – for their fourth-annual event, which was held November 17-19 in the elegant 40,000-square-foot Steelcase Ballroom inside DeVos Place. That’s four consecutive years of growth – in terms of both attendees and exhibitors.

“Grand Rapids is the perfect size city for this type of event,” says Henri Boucher, show producer. “It comes alive because it’s such a dynamic downtown – an area that is the envy of all of Michigan. We’re proud to host this event, which is the true kickoff to the holiday season.”

Considered the largest food and beverage festival in the state and one of the premier events of its kind in the Midwest, the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival has shown steady growth since its first year in 2008. That year, some 8000 people attended the festival. In 2009, organizers welcomed a 30% increase in the number of exhibitors and beverages, and twice as many restaurants – welcoming nearly 10,000 guests throughout the three-day festival. Close to 11,000 attendees were reported in 2010.

“This fourth annual event once again exceeded our expectations,” says Richard MacKeigan, Regional General Manager, DeVos Place, DeVos Performance Hall & Van Andel Arena. “We believe we are in the early stages of an event that will be around for a long, long, time. Comments from exhibitors, sponsors and most importantly guests have determined that 2011 was a grand success. The feeling seems to be that the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer and Food Festival is another great reason why Grand Rapids is such a great city to live and work in.”

The three-day festival spotlights more than a dozen restaurants; hundreds of wineries, breweries, distilleries and thousands of their products; countless local businesses; and the area’s leading industry experts who deliver countless seminars, workshops and demonstrations at no added cost to attendees. Dates for 2012 are moved up a week, to November 8-10.

“We are proud to produce the finest wine festival in the Midwest,” says show manager, Cathleen McDonald. “It comes together because of the great exhibitors – wineries, breweries distributors, restaurants and retailers – that we have the pleasure of working with.”

COMMENTS FROM EXHIBITORS
“The event far exceeded our expectations,” says Brad Dahlhofer of the Michigan-based B. Nektar Meadery, who made his first appearance at the festival this year. “The response to our Zombie Killer cherry cyser was off the charts. We'll definitely be there next year!”

“What a great way for us to get our name out to the West Michigan community,” says Theresa Arkesteyn of Great Lakes Pierogies, who was also new to the show this year. “The amount of visibility we received exceeded our expectations! We had great time serving our pierogies to the public and had great response from all! Can't wait till next year!!!”
“We received very positive feedback and our products sampled well as we had a consistent line the entire event,” says Jennifer Baranska, representing Buitoni. “Our intention was to target potential Buitoni customers and drive total brand category awareness in the Grand Rapids local market… it was an extremely successful event. I cannot wait until next year.”

“We had a great show and the traffic was super on Friday and Saturday, [with] quality attendees who were fun to talk to and very receptive to tasting,” says Mike Freestone, owner of Good Life Granola, who exhibited in the Riverfront Marketplace for the second consecutive year. “I look forward to being there next year and would love the same spot...two thumbs up!”

COMMENTS FROM ATTENDEES
“I loved the show! A great way to meet innovators and businessmen and women who are bringing outstanding products to Michigan.” ~Rebecca Eyke, editor of Michigan HOME & Lifestyle Magazine

“Thank you, Fred, and Gail Ambrosius, for creating a wonderful and inspiring experience. This seminar was the highlight of our visit!” ~Jennifer Reed, via Facebook

“My family and I had a GREAT time for the third year in a row. Thanks for a memorable experience! Sadly, however, I dropped by beer glass on the way to the car :( It was lovely while it lasted though, nice addition to the usual wine glasses.” ~Kaitlyn Winter, via Facebook

“Had a great time last night and enjoyed all the wine choices I selected.” ~Lisa Baird Karafa, via Facebook

“Dear Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival, You were absolutely fantastic tonight!! thank you for the fabulous everything!!” ~Marco Riolo, via Facebook
“Sorry for cutting in front of everybody at the coat check last night I was just so excited.” ~Keith Lefteye Allard, via Facebook
“Went for the wine, but stayed for the beers! What a great time Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival!” ~Nick Dionne, via Facebook

www.GRWineFestival.com
www.facebook.com/grwinefestival
www.twitter.com/grwinefestival

Saugatuck Brewing Company launches "The Singapore Room"

2011-11-11T08:23:00.000-08:00

In the facility previously known as the “Bier Hall”, SBC has upgraded décor, expanded services and has hired Jodie Howitt to serve exclusively as Event Coordinator for the newly named “Singapore Room”. Jodie comes to SBC with a strong hospitality background, having planned all aspects of special events for Fortune 500 companies as well as many wedding ceremonies and receptions. The Singapore Room is a full service banquet facility complete with bar, stage, dance floor and multiple lighting options and can accommodate well over 200 seated guests. A Grand Opening is planned for Fri. Nov. 18th 5:30-9:30. This will be an open house featuring SBC beer, wine and appetizers.

Saugatuck Brewing Co. is a microbrewery with a traditional Irish style pub and upscale banquet room that features hand crafted beer, wine, food, and service. Fifteen unique beer styles, all brewed in house, plus wine and hard cider are served daily in the Pub. “SBC” also distributes five styles in 6 and 4-packs throughout lower Michigan. The brewery also features the only active brew-on-premise facility in Michigan, utilizing five copper kettles and an array of natural ingredients and recipes, for the public to become “Brewmaster for a Day.”

Saugatuck Brewing Company
2948 Blue Star Hwy. – Douglas, MI 49406
(269) 857-7222
www.saugatuckbrewing.com
www.facebook.com/saugatuckbrewingcompany

Reserve Wine & Food in GR Receives OpenTable “Diner’s Choice Award” for Top Wine List

2011-10-31T10:05:00.000-07:00

Reserve Wine & Food in Grand Rapids has been named a winner of OpenTable Diner’s Choice Awards for Top Wine Lists in the United States. The list of 50 winners is derived from more than 10 million reviews submitted by OpenTable diners for more than 12,000 restaurants in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Reserve is one of only two restaurants in Michigan to make the list; the other is Vinology in Ann Arbor.

“We are very pleased to be recognized by OpenTable for our wine list,” says Peter Marantette, Sommelier and General Manager of Reserve Wine & Food. “We have worked hard to create a wine list that fits into our guests’ everyday lives, while also providing selections for those extra special occasions.”

Reserve Wine & Food is home to one of the country’s largest cruvinet systems, holding 102 wines that are served by the glass. This intricate wine preservation system extends the life of wine exponentially, giving Reserve the liberty to offer a wider range of varietals and price points.

“We can now pour bottle wine by the glass, something that other restaurants wouldn’t dream of opening, for fear they wouldn’t sell it before the wine turned,” Marantette says.

An additional 200 wines are available by the bottle at Reserve, including local, domestic and international favorites, as well as many exclusive and hard-to-find wines.

“The sommeliers at the winning restaurants put as much passion into carefully curating their wine lists as chefs put into their menus,” says Caroline Potter, OpenTable Chief Dining Officer. “We’re so proud to be able to honor the winners and their commitment to building wine lists that excite and educate diners seeking the ultimate compliment to their meal.”

Based on feedback collected from OpenTable diners between October 2010 and September 2011, some 50 award-winning restaurants received the highest scores. For more information about all restaurants on the list, visit www.OpenTable.com/wine.

OpenTable is a leading provider of free, real-time online restaurant reservations for diners, and reservation and guest management solutions for restaurants. OpenTable has more than 20,000 restaurant customers, and since its inception in 1998, has seated more than 200 million diners around the world. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, CA and services are available throughout the United States, as well as Canada, Germany, Japan, Mexico and the United Kingdom.

Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids at 201 Monroe Avenue NW, Reserve Wine & Food offers a world-class menu fully embracing the West Michigan farm-to-table philosophy, paired with over 100 wines available by the glass and 200 wines by the bottle, in an elegant yet casual fine dining setting. (616-855-WINE | www.ReserveGR.com)

www.facebook.com/ReserveGR
www.twitter.com/ReserveGR

Cherry Tree Inn & Suites in TC Hosts Fall Women’s Weekend, November 11-12

2011-10-31T08:46:00.000-07:00

Grab your sisters, mother, aunts and girlfriends for the “November Women’s Weekend,” November 11-12, at the Cherry Tree Inn & Suites on East Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City.

Featuring a Friday night reception (with a prize-winning game, complimentary wine and massages), discounts to local shopping and restaurants, and multiple classes on Saturday, this weekend is sure to be a hoot for you and your gal pals. Classes will include a variety of offerings from making you sweat to pampering you just right. Best of all, after all this spoiling by the Cherry Tree Family, you'll still have plenty of time on Saturday to enjoy Traverse City's shops, wineries, restaurants, and more.

Rates start at $79 per person for the entire weekend based on four-person occupancy; only $99 per person for the entire weekend based on two-person occupancy.

Reservations are being accepted now, online at www.cherrytreeinn.com or by calling (800) 439-3093.

As a top Traverse City resort, the Cherry Tree Inn & Suites leads in service, cleanliness and comfort. With 400 feet of East Grand Traverse Bay waterfront, the Cherry Tree’s smoke-free facilities provide the comfort you look for while our staff provides the service you need. Amenities include a complimentary hot breakfast, complimentary wireless Internet access, an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna, fitness and arcade rooms, and kitchenettes and Sony Playstation 2’s in every room.

Cherry Tree Inn & Suites2345 US 31 N
Traverse City, Michigan 49686
(800) 439-3093

www.cherrytreeinn.com
www.facebook.com/CherryTreeInnTraverseCity

Reserve Wine & Food to Host Signature Wine Auction to Benefit Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital

2011-10-27T05:39:00.000-07:00

Autographs from some of Grand Rapids’ most prominent business and community leaders will be “up for bid” during the Signature Wine Auction to be held next fall – Thursday, October 18, 2012 – at Reserve Wine & Food. The auction will raise awareness and dollars for the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

“I wanted to find a way to recognize our community leaders – those who have helped shape Grand Rapids’ future and put this city on the map,” says local radio personality and children’s advocate Kevin Matthews, who first came up with the idea after a meeting with friends Dick and Betsy DeVos. “This exciting fundraiser will not only showcase these individuals and their accomplishments, but it will raise much needed funds and public awareness for the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.”

During the Signature Wine Auction, attendees will participate in silent bidding on as many as 50 1.5L magnum bottles of wine, each displaying a custom label autographed by the community’s top leaders in business, as well as state and local celebrities. A live auction will conclude the evening, as guests bid on a bottle to be autographed by all in attendance that evening. The goal is to raise at least $30,000 during the course of the evening.

Tickets to the Signature Wine Auction will go on sale September 13, 2012 and will be $100 each. Space will be limited to 80 individuals. The event will be held from 6-9pm on Thursday, October 18 in the upper level of Reserve Wine & Food.

“We are honored to be the host venue for this inaugural event,” says Peter Marantette, General Manager at Reserve Wine & Food. “We expect this to be the first of many such events, which will bring together those who appreciate good food and wine and who are also willing and able to contribute to such a worthy organization as the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.”

About the charity:
Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, a member of Spectrum Health, is a Grand Rapids-based hospital serving children throughout Michigan. A teaching hospital, it includes more than 200 pediatric specialty physicians with specialized training in providing medical and surgical care to children in more than 40 pediatric specialties.

About the venue:
Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids at 201 Monroe Avenue NW, Reserve offers a world-class menu fully embracing the West Michigan farm-to-table philosophy, paired with over 100 wines available by the glass and 200 wines by the bottle, in an elegant yet casual fine dining setting.

www.SignatureWineAuction.org

www.ReserveGR.com

www.helendevoschildrens.org

Michigan Made Harvest Beers Highlight Fall Season

2011-10-19T12:14:00.000-07:00

The autumn season brings an abundance of things to the Great Lakes State – like fall colors, harvest festivals and a variety of pumpkin, apple and harvest-themed beer. While the recipes may be similar, there’s always a touch of something unique in each of these fall brews – including the originality of the names. Michigan made harvest brews available for 2011 include:

Arcadia Ales
Jaw-Jacker (6% ABV). Grandma's pumpkin pie never tasted this good. This fall seasonal is a celebration of harvest time and the changing of the seasons. Using only the finest malted barley and a touch of wheat, Jaw-Jacker pours a brilliant orange-amber color with truly unique flavors. Although no pumpkins are actually used, a blend of nutmeg, allspice and cinnamon work with the malty flavors to create a bold flavor reminiscent of pumpkin pie. A light hop note balances out the beer nicely. This seasonal beer, available for a limited time on draft and in 6-pack, 12oz glass bottles, is a favorite for harvest festivals, Halloween parties and Thanksgiving dinner. It pairs well with boiled brisket with root veggies, roast duck or turkey, pumpkin pie or sweet potato pie, with vanilla bean ice cream.

Atwater Brewery

**Blocktoberfest (6.3% ABV). Our interpretation of the German style Marzen. Similar to the Oktoberfest style, but stronger and hoppier. A two-time silver medal winner at the Great American Beer Festival tells you this beer is strong, hoppy and thirst quenching. Brewed with Munich, 2 row and Cara 120 malts, along with Perle and Hersbrucker hops.

**VoodooVator (8.5% ABV). Atwater's Dopplebock. it’s a little drier and stronger than the normal dopplebock and we like it that way. Brewed traditionally in the winter for springtime, but we make it for the fall just in time for Halloween!! This nutty sweet caramelly beer is brewed for six months of the year for your pure enjoyment. Brewed with Munich, 2 row and Cara 120 malts and Aurora and Hersbrucker hops

Bastone Brewery

Rocktoberfest (5.5% ABV) A celebrated beer of the season. Named for Brewmaster Rockne Van Meter, it is Bastone’s most popular seasonal and a World Beer Championship medal winner from 2008 and 2009. This Oktoberfest style lager is light copper in color, with a light tan head and slight caramel and toasty flavors. Purchase Rocktoberfest, or any Bastone beer, in a Limited edition Oktoberfest pint glass for $5 while they last.

Bell’s Brewery

Octoberfest Beer (5.5% ABV). Crafted as a flavorful session beer, Bell's Octoberfest Beer is perfect for a week-long wedding celebration in Germany or the start of the Michigan autumn. As with Bell's Lager Beer, Octoberfest spends a full six weeks maturing in the fermentation vessels. Unlike its cousin, Octoberfest trades in the assertive hop presence for a focus on a light caramel malt note, lending body without too much sweetness. Available on draft and in bottles.

Blue Cow Café

Pumpkin Chunkin Ale (6.3% ABV). Simplistic grain background is accentuated by a few German specialty malts that compliment but do not overpower the earthy flavors that large quantities of 100% natural pumpkin bring to the party. Freshly ground nutmeg and whole cinnamon sticks are added to the boil to give the finished product a more well rounded easily identifiable fall harvest taste and aroma. This is not a sweet beer, this is not a spice beer, this not a niche beer, this is a beer in which every flavor lives in perfect balance and does not overstay its welcome. This is, simply put, a damn good beer.

Cheboygan Brewing Company

Oktoberfest. Created after the Spaten Oktoberfest bier from Munich, Germany, this new introduction will be orange in hue with a notable hops presence and a large amount of German malt. This all gives a rich mouth feel and chewy malty body.

Founders Brewing

Harvest Ale. This liquid dream pours a hazy golden straw color with a white, two-finger head. Your first sip rewards you with a super juicy hop presence bursting with fresh citrus, then finishes to introduce toasted malt undertones.

Great Baraboo

Pumpkin Spice (5.0% ABV). With pumpkin in the mash and boil, this beer also has cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and molasses added to the boil, giving it a medium body and orange color and an almost pumpkin pie aftertaste. A special batch with vanilla gives that pumpkin pie with whipped cream aftertaste.

Jolly Pumpkin, Dexter

La Parcela (5.9% ABV). OK, so the joke was Jolly Pumpkin doesn't brew a pumpkin beer! Well, now we do – just this one – No. 1 pumpkin beer. With hints of spice, and a gentle kiss of cacao to liven the soul, this oak-aged sour beer has real pumpkin added to the barrels during the aging process. An everyday easy way to fill your squashy quotient. Guess now folks will have to find something else to joke about!

Kuhnhenn Brewery

All Hallows Ale (6.0% ABV). All Hallows Ale is made with 100lbs. of hand roasted Michigan pumpkins per 8-barrel batch, which intensifies the squash character of this beer. That is over 6 pounds of pumpkin in each 1/2 barrel. It has hot cinnamon and pumpkin aromas. This Ale is medium-bodied and only slightly sweet. Its many spices hit the palate first and finishes with roasty pumpkin goodness.

Liberty Street Brewing Company

**Punkin Pie Ale (5.4% ABV). Clean tasting malty ale blended with everything you would expect from pumpkin pie. Our specialty malts give this beer a nice bready balance to make you think there is a crust. This is an easy drinking version of a lightly-hopped amber ale that is seasoned with a specially blended combination of spices. The caramel sweetness and bready character of the specialty malts mingle with the spices, to make you think you are eating an actual piece of pie. Try it at the pub with Guernsey's French Vanilla ice cream (Punkin' Pie ala mode). Available in our tasting room only, through the holiday season or while supplies last.

**Octoberfest Style Lager (5.8% ABV). Brewed with all German malts and hops, we used Munich style water and then lager for months before bringing this delicious seasonal lager to our taps. LSBC will release its Octoberfest style lager on Sunday, October 17 at 12:00 noon in conjunction with Detroit Beer Week.

Michigan Brewing Company

Screamin’ Pumpkin Spiced Ale (5.0% ABV). This amber-colored, spice-packed ale is brewed with three different malts, Michgian winter wheat and real pumpkin mixed in at the boil, which makes it a true celebration of the fall harvest. Often described as “pumpkin pie in a pint glass,” this ale is the perfect combination of comforting aroma and sweetly-spiced flavor that makes it a scream at every Halloween party and the perfect complement to Thanksgiving dinner. Available on tap and in 12 ounce bottles.

New Holland Brewing

Ichabod (5.5% ABV). As fall brings color to our trees, a chill to our evenings and countless aromas of the changing season, we instinctively look for early harvest flavors on our plate and in our glass. Ichabod combines malted barley and real pumpkin with cinnamon and nutmeg in a delicious and inviting brew. It befits any autumnal adventure, including mysterious rides through the hollow, and pairs well with autumnal foods such as poultry and root vegetables. After dinner, try it with your favorite dessert. Available on tap and in bottles through November.

North Peak Beer

**Hooligan (5.5% ABV). Tired of having to decide between your favorite pumpkin beer and IPA? Well fret no more! Enter the Hooligan; your new favorite hoppy pumpkin beer. All the spicy pumpkin goodness one could ask for, brewed with real pumpkin and fresh spices, and did we mention hops!

**Hoodoo (9.0% ABV). Brewed with fresh from the farm Michigan hops for flavor unparalleled. Given its strong malt backed spine we gave this Hoodoo hops to run. Starts hoppy, ends hoppy, and nuthin' but hops in the middle - well OK, a little malt in the middle, too. Just enough to keep this Hoodoo from getting fussy, though, so not to worry - pretty much nuthin' but hops.

Right Brain Brewery

Pomona Pumpkin Ale (5.5% ABV). The Pomona Pumpkin Ale is certainly a no brainer, right brained, seasonal brew. It’s mashed with locally sourced fresh pumpkins and a secret blend of harvest spices. This isn’t your Grandma’s pumpkin pie! The base is a deliciously-smooth amber ale with a flavor the highlights the wonderful fall harvest. This brew should hit our pub in early to mid October depending on the harvest. How long it will last is up to the thirst of the people!

Short’s Brewing, Bellaire

Funkin Punkin (5.6% ABV). A seasonal blend of pumpkin, spices, and carefully formulated ale. Notably aromatic of pumpkin pie, and the color of a light pastel brown, this brew is especially true of ale and comfortably consumable. Brewed with real pumpkin and real spice, it’s still very much a beer, but beautifully engineered with spice, pumpkin and beer balance.

Michigan’s thriving brewing industry contributes over $24 million in wages with a total economic contribution of more than $133 million. In terms of overall number breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs, Michigan ranks #5 in the nation – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State.”

The Michigan Brewers Guild exists to unify the Michigan brewing community; to increase sales of Michigan-brewed beer through promotions, marketing, public awareness and consumer education; and to monitor and assure a healthy beer industry within the state.

For more information about the Michigan Brewers Guild, including a dates of upcoming events and a list of member micro-breweries, log on to www.michiganbrewersguild.org.

www.facebook.com/michiganbrewersguild
www.twitter.com/MiBrewersGuild

Join us later this month:
3rd Annual Detroit Fall Beer Festival
Saturday, October 22 (1-6pm)
Eastern Market – Detroit

Street Dance for Zombies: The Traverse City "Monster's Ball"

2011-10-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

Ever heard of a Silent Disco?

Well, you wouldn’t actually hear it. It’s silent, right? But you could watch one on Oct. 29, when Traverse City adds yet another entry to its list of eldritch fall happenings: the first-ever Old Town Halloween Carnival and Monster’s Ball. And it’s a spooky sight to behold.

In a Silent Disco, dancers are issued wireless headphones through which music is broadcast via an FM transmitter. It’s the perfect eerie effect for a Halloween street party, since everyone appears to be moving to no discernible music at all. (An added benefit is that non-dancers don’t have to shout at each other over the music, and the neighbors don’t call the cops to report you for making a public nuisance.)

Already known among Halloween cognoscenti for its ghoulish 5K Zombie Run footrace, where shambling “zombie” runners chase down normal-looking “survivors,” and the unspeakable cuteness of its kid-friendly Downtown Halloween Walk, Traverse City seems determined to make itself the Halloween capital of the Midwest with yet another event.

Billed as “the largest Halloween event in Northern Michigan,” the Oct. 29 Halloween Carnival and Monster’s Ball is being assembled by Porterhouse Productions, which runs the successful Traverse City Microbrew & Music Festival in August. As the name implies, it will be held in the city’s historic Old Town district, on Union Street between 7th and 8th streets.

"It's going to be so out of the park!" says promoter Sam Porter. "We tested this idea at the microbrew festival, and it caught on like wildfire -- we know we've got something really exciting here."

The “daylight” portion of the carnival starts with a Saturday morning “Monster Pancake Throwdown” – a contest among local chefs in this bastion of culinary competitiveness for the title of Best Pancake in Traverse City. Pancakes will be served out with a host of other locally-produced sausages, eggs, jams, syrups and ciders. Family-style fun continues from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a kids’ costume contest, a haunted bouncy castle, old-school carnival games, Halloween creatures, a pneumatic “virtual hearse ride,” a pumpkin pie-eating contest, performances by local bands and dancers and other fun.

But things really begin to happen after dark, when the streets are taken over by the Monster’s Ball, with local food, wines and microbrews, and music from live bands and DJs. Entertainment will include the last live performance of Michigan dance-rock group Ella Riot (this will be the band’s farewell show), a costume contest featuring premium prizes, and an all-night Silent Disco dance party featuring DJ Body Rock and Wally Sparks (of Ella Riot), DJ Dominate and others.

Tickets for Porterhouse Productions’ Old Town Halloween Carnival & Monsters’ Ball can be purchased online at www.porterhouseproductions.com . Admission for the Monster Pancake Throwdown and Halloween Carnival is $8 for attendees 13 and up and $ for children ages 3-12. Children ages 2 and under are free. Admission for the Monsters’ Ball is $20 in advance or $25 at the door (if not sold out in advance). The Monsters’ Ball is open to attendees ages 21 and over only – no exceptions.
For more information, visit www.porterhouseproductions.com or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/porterhouse.mi.

For help with lodging and dining options, and to learn about other adventures, activities and attractions in the Traverse City area, contact the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-TRAVERSE or on line at www.TraverseCity.com

Brys Estate Hosts 2nd Annual Harvest Celebration - Every Saturday in October

2011-09-27T17:29:00.000-07:00

You are invited to experience autumn on Old Mission Peninsula with the Brys Estate 2nd Annual Harvest Celebration, running from 11am to 6pm, every Saturday in October.

For $5 per person,* guests are given a large souvenir wine glass to use as they visit four different wine and food pairing stations throughout the tasting room, barrel rooms and winery cellar giving visitors a glimpse into the inner workings of the winery. Each wine will be paired with a small bite, created by Eileen Brys – including her famous dark chocolate brownies. The last wine sample, at the main bar, is “guest’s choice.”

The patio will be open for guests to enjoy their favorite wine by the glass, while soaking up the fall colors that will be exploding in every direction. Guests may even sneak a peak at the grapes being harvested in the estate vineyards that surround the tasting room.

“This Fall Harvest Tour was a hit last year and we expect it to be just as popular this season,” says Patrick Brys. “This year’s dates are October 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. On October 1 the winery will close at 5pm.”

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery is centrally located in the heart of the Old Mission Peninsula – situated on 80 acres with breathtaking views of East Grand Traverse Bay – in Traverse City, Michigan. This boutique winery began with the planting of 32 acres of European vinifera grapes in 2001 and opened the tasting room in May of 2005. Using the highest quality standards, Brys hand picks its grapes and hand crafts its small batch, single vineyard wines, giving attention to every detail during the crushing, fermenting, aging and bottling process. You are invited to visit Brys Estate's old world-style tasting room and new outdoor patio this summer to sample their International award-winning estate wines.

* Admission for current Wine Club Members is complimentary.

www.BrysEstate.com

North Peak Brewing Company Sponsors Free Screening of Martin Sheen, Emilio Estevez Movie “The Way”

2011-09-27T10:16:00.000-07:00

Viewing set for Wednesday, October 12 at 7pm - Michigan Theater, Downtown Ann Arbor

North Peak Brewing Company invites the public to enjoy a bottle of its Wanderer Session IPA, while enjoying a free screeing of the new movie “The Way” – starring Marting Sheen and Emilio Estevez, who also directs this poingnant film. The screening will be held at 7pm on Wednesday, October 12 at the Michigan Theater in downtown Ann Arbor.

Following the 115-minute film (PG-13), Sheen and Estevez – who will be attending the screening – will answer questions and discuss the film with the audience.

Online reservations are required here. Tickets are limited to the first 300.

"The Way" is a powerful and inspirational story about family, friends and the challenges we all face while navigating this ever changing and complicated world. Martin Sheen plays Tom, an American doctor who comes to St. Jean Pied de Port, France to collect the remains of his adult son (played by Emily Estevez), killed in the Pyrenees in a storm while walking The Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of Saint James.

Rather than return home, Tom decides embark on the historical pilgrimage to honor his son's desire to finish the journey. Inexperienced as a trekker, Tom soon discovers that he will not be alone on this journey. Along "The Way," Tom meets other pilgrims from around the world, each with their own "issues" and looking for greater meaning in their lives: a Dutchman (Yorick van Wageningen) a Canadian (Deborah Kara Unger) and an Irish writer (James Nesbitt) who is suffering from a bout of "writer's block."

From the unexpected and oftentimes, amusing experiences along "The Way," this unlikely quartet of misfits create an everlasting bond and Tom begins to learn what it means to be a citizen of the world again. Through Tom's unresolved relationship with his son, discovers the difference between "The life we live and the life we choose".

Written and directed by Emilio Estevez, “The Way” was filmed entirely in Spain and France along the actual Camino de Santiago.

More about the movie
http://theway-themovie.com
https://www.facebook.com/thewaythemovie
https://twitter.com/thewaythemovie

North Peak’s Wanderer
A wonderfully-refreshing Session IPA, brewed with locally-grown hops on Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City. Session IPA is an exciting new style, balanced with malt and hop characters with a clean finish. Hopped with Perle, Willamette, Centennial and Citra that give it a citrus and pine finish, Wanderer is rounded out with a generous amount of dry-hopping with Citra hops to fill the nose to give it a light, clean and stimulating body. This combination of full-hop flavor and lower alcohol gives Wanderer a wonderful drinkability, allowing the craft beer drinker to have multiple beers, within a reasonable time period or “session.”

North Peak is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales craft beer brands, as well as the soon-to-be-released Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table (former Bowers Harbor Inn) restaurant or at the original Jolly Pumpkin facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

North Peak Brewing Company
www.NorthPeakBeer.com

West Michigan Signature Tour of Kitchens Takes an Inside Look at 18 Professionally-Designed Rooms - Saturday, October 8

2011-09-26T07:19:00.000-07:00

Tour Presented by National Kitchen & Bath Association – West Michigan and Michigan HOME and Lifestyle Magazine to Benefit Gilda’s Club – Grand Rapids.

Step inside 18 of the area’s best professionally-designed kitchens during the West Michigan Signature Tour of Kitchens – Saturday, October 8. Presented by the West Michigan Chapter of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and Michigan HOME and Lifestyle Magazine, the tour showcases the talents of more than a dozen NKBA designers and studios, and benefits Gilda’s Club – Grand Rapids.

“We are excited to be offering this unique ability to view kitchen designs from a variety of local professionals throughout West Michigan,” says John Valente, NKBA-West Michigan Chapter Representative. “We planned this event with the consumer in mind. This is a fantastic opportunity to view the final kitchen design in a home setting. This format may give you a different perspective on what is available from your local NKBA member showrooms.”

The Tour runs from 11 am to 7 pm and homes are located throughout west Michigan, Spring Lake and the greater Kalamazoo area.

“We are pleased to be involved in the West Michigan Signature Tour of Kitchens again,” says Dennis Stadel, publisher of Michigan HOME and Lifestyle Magazine. “Being able to showcase the finest designed custom kitchens fits perfectly with the style and mission of our magazine and the interests of our readers. Each home on the tour is featured in the fall issue of the Magazine, available at retail outlets statewide. The complete description and photo will help visitors get an early glimpse of what is offered on the tour.”

The kitchens on display are the best of the best in west Michigan designed by:

GREATER GRAND RAPIDS AREA
• Tru Kitchens
• DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen
• Lifestyle Kitchen Studio
• Williams Kitchen & Bath
• Kitchen Design Studio Inc.
• Woodways Inc.
• Hearthstone Design Studio
• Standard Kitchens

GREATER KALAMAZOO AREA
• Kalamazoo Custom Kitchens
• Scholten Kitchen & Bath

LAKESHORE
• Rycenga Building Center
• Woodways Inc.

Tickets for the West Michigan Signature Tour of Kitchens are $10 at the door of any home on the tour, or in advance at NKBA member retail outlets (see list above).

www.KitchenTour.org
www.facebook.com/SignatureKitchenTourWM

SPONSORS:
Gerrit's Appliance
Virginia Tile
Fifth Third Bank

Ford Brings the “Power of Choice” tour to GR; Unveils Local Driving Behaviors

2011-09-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich) -- Ford Motor Company showcased its Power of Choice Tour and clean vehicle lineup in Michigan today, where Ford’s all-electric vehicles hit Grand Rapids streets, along with hybrids and additional class-leading, fuel-efficient driving options. Ford is differentiating itself from competitors by offering a family of electrified vehicles and advanced engine options, all designed to meet today’s diverse range of driving needs.

“Fuel efficiency in my hometown of Grand Rapids and across the nation is a high priority for new car buyers right now, and consumers want options when it comes to green driving,” said Erich Merkle, U.S. Sales Analyst for Ford Motor Company. “Ford is meeting these consumer needs by offering a suite of fuel-efficient vehicles – from hybrids to electrics to ultra-efficient gas-powered cars. Even more, Ford is packing these vehicles with class-leading technology, giving consumers both exciting and cleaner driving choices.”

As part of the Power of Choice Tour, Ford recently conducted in-market, quantitative research to uncover key driving statistics and insights among Grand Rapids drivers. Results included:

• Lack of education for Grand Rapids residents, with regard to alternative fuel technologies

o 48% of residents surveyed did not know the difference between a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and a full battery electric vehicle

o Even though hybrid technology has been on the road for 15 years, one in five residents surveyed were unclear on what hybrid vehicle technology entails

o 39% of Grand Rapids residents surveyed do not know what flex fuel vehicles are or how they differ from petrol or compressed natural gas engine technologies

• 75% of those surveyed said an electric vehicle would fit their family’s needs, but 60% were not comfortable with a limited-range vehicle being their primary mode of transportation

• By far, Grand Rapids residents felt fuel efficiency was the most important factor when making a car purchase (41%), followed by brand loyalty (16%) and style (15%); Additionally, more than 25% of Grand Rapids residents surveyed were dissatisfied with their current fuel economy rating

• Saving money on gas was the most appealing aspect of a hybrid or electric vehicle, for area residents

• Grand Rapids residents’ driving habits included: 74% drive to work; 54% have a daily commute of less than 30 minutes; 86% drive more on weekends than weekdays; 45% cite traffic as biggest concern

Today, Ford shared this data and an overall industry analysis with Grand Rapids’ thought leaders and media, as part of a larger push to educate drivers on the range of fuel-efficient vehicles and technologies available. Attendees were offered test drives in the Transit Connect Electric – a small, fully-electric utility van which debuted in 2010, as well as numerous other clean driving vehicles. Additionally, the Focus Electric – Ford’s first zero-emission, all-electric passenger car coming in late 2011 – was on display.

Power of Choice
Electrification is an important piece of Ford’s overall product sustainability strategy, which includes the launch of five electrified vehicles in North America by 2012 and in Europe by 2013. Ford launched the Transit Connect Electric small commercial van in 2010 and will launch the all-new Focus Electric later this year. In 2012, these models will be joined in North America by the new C-MAX Hybrid, a second next-generation lithium-ion battery hybrid and the new C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid. This diverse range of electrified vehicles allows Ford to meet a variety of consumer driving needs.

Beyond electrification, Ford continues to lead the industry in fuel efficient technology development, with a firm commitment from President and CEO Alan Mulally to bring each new Ford and Lincoln vehicle to market as a class or near-class leader in fuel efficiency and quality.

Ford is achieving this leadership in a variety of ways, including through advancements in the internal combustion engine with technology like EcoBoost, which combines direct injection into smaller engines and turbo-charging to give customers the power they want and the fuel efficiency they need. EcoBoost is a global Ford engine that provides affordable fuel efficiency for millions of drivers, increasing fuel economy up to 20 percent while reducing CO2 emissions by up to 15 percent. By the end of 2011, Ford will have built nearly 180,000 EcoBoost-powered vehicles in North America, and the engines will be offered in 90 percent of Ford vehicles by 2013. Ford holds more than 125 patents on its engine technology.

In addition to the EcoBoost engine offering, Ford’s recent line up of smaller, more fuel efficient vehicle sales have gained significant market share in key regions of the country. Vehicles like the all-new Ford Focus and the Fiesta both achieve 40 mpg or higher, boasting fuel economy that most hybrids don’t even achieve.

“Small car sales now account for 25% of vehicles sold in the U.S., compared to 19% in December 2010,” said Merkle. “We’ve seen this shift take place at Ford, with the Focus and Fiesta becoming the two fastest turning vehicles in our showrooms. In fact, Fiesta sales in August were up 76% and the Focus continues to perform beyond expectations.”

Green Driving Leadership
Ford has 14 vehicles with best-in-class fuel economy, more than any other full line auto maker. Additionally, Ford has four cars that achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg or higher, including Fiesta, Focus, Fusion Hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Thirteen Ford vehicles achieve an EPA-rated 30 mpg or higher.

# # #

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

2011-09-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

Ford Motor Company is committed to delivering vehicles with the best or among the best fuel economy. Ford has 12 vehicles with best-in-class fuel economy - more than any other full-line automaker – giving consumers a real choice when choosing a vehicle that suits their needs and saves money at the pump.

Ford’s Power of Choice tour will be rolling through Grand Rapids to highlight Ford’s fuel efficient lineup and the new electrified vehicles that will be available in North America by 2012 and Europe by 2013.

Ford’s Power of Choice tour - Grand Rapids includes:

WHO:
Erich Merkle, Product Strategy Communications Manager for Ford Motor

WHAT:
Power of Choice Vehicle and Technology Tour

WHERE:
Holiday Inn Downtown
310 Pearl Street NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Rogue Conference Room

WHEN:
Thursday, September 15th
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM – Presentation and Q and A
(Continental breakfast will be available throughout the presentation)

10:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Vehicle test drives and demonstrations.

Vehicle display includes the:

*Focus Electric (static)
*Transit Connect Electric (drivable)
*Fiesta (drivable)
*MKS with EcoBoost (drivable)
*Fusion Hybrid (drivable)
*Explorer (drivable)

INVITATION ONLY. For details, email Dianna Stampfler - Dianna@PromoteMichigan.com

North Peak Carves Out Latest Brew with Hooligan: A Hoppy Pumpkin Ale

2011-09-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Tired of having to choose between your favorite pumpkin beer and your favorite IPA when fall comes around? Well, fret no more. Enter the Hooligan – the new hoppy pumpkin beer from North Peak Brewing Company in Traverse City. Coming in at 5.5%ABV with 35 IBUs, Hooligan is a real treat for beer lovers – just in time for the harvest season.

“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 bring 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, October 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.

The North Peak is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales craft beer brands, as well as the soon-to-be-released Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table (former Bowers Harbor Inn) restaurant or at the original Jolly Pumpkin facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.
www.NorthPeakBeer.com

Saugatuck Brewing Co.’s ESB/Amber awarded “Best in the Midwest”

2011-09-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

The USBTC (United States Beer Tasting Championship) held their 17th annual Midwest regional competition in early August and has awarded 1st place in the Bitter/ESB category to Saugatuck Brewing Co., for their ESB/Amber. Over 120 beers in 11 categories were entered in this year’s competition. USBTC’s company overview states… “USBTC has but one simple mission, to find the best beers in America and share the results with you.” More information may be found at www.usbtc.com.

ESB/Amber (5.5%ABV | 25 IBUs) is a classic medium-bodied British-style Extra Special Bitter with an even balance of six different malts and Goldings, Tettenang and Williamette hops. This beer is one of SBC’s mainstay beers and is available on tap and in 6-packs throughout most of lower Michigan.

Saugatuck Brewing Co. is a microbrewery with a traditional Irish style pub and German style bier hall. They feature hand crafted beer plus a full food menu and excellent service. Fifteen unique beer styles, all brewed in house, plus wine and hard cider are served daily in the family friendly Pub. “SBC” also distributes four beer styles in 6-packs throughout Michigan. The multi-purpose Bier Hall is a full-service banquet facility complete with bar, stage and multiple lighting options. Accommodating well over 200 seated guests, this venue is available for weddings, receptions, reunions, corporate events and concerts. The brewery also features the only active brew-on-premise facility in Michigan, utilizing five copper kettles and an array of natural ingredients and recipes, for the public to become “Brewmaster for a Day.”

Saugatuck Brewing Co. is a proud member of the Michigan Brewers Guild.

www.saugatuckbrewing.com
www.facebook.com/saugatuckbrewingcompany

Michigan Nature & History Lovers Will Fall for Camp Tosebo’s Autumn Allure

2011-09-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

Nestled amidst more than 50 colorful acres of protected forests along the southern shore of Portage Lake, between Manistee and Onekama, sets a picturesque camp that has been welcoming visitors for generations. Founded in 1912 as a private camp for boys, Camp Tosebo is one of the most historic and treasured vacation retreats in Northern Michigan. Located just off the famed M22 scenic highway, this four-season destination provides the ideal setting to soak up the explosion of fall colors.

Within just a short drive of Camp Tosebo, visitors will find dozens of natural and historic sites waiting to be explored, camera in hand. A nearly 100-mile route, originally created by the West Michigan Tourist Association (www.wmta.org), takes travelers along the winding backroads of M22-, M115 and M55 through the nearby towns of Onekama, Pierport, Arcadia, Thompsonville, Kaleva, Brethren and Manistee.

Among the sites one can expect to find nearby are the Lake Bluff Audubon Center & Bird Sanctuary, the North Country Scenic Trail, Arcadia Overlook, Gwen Frostic Studios, the Bottle House Museum and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – recently named “The Most Beautiful Place in America” by viewers of Good Morning America.

Listed with both the Michigan and National Register of Historic Places, Camp Tosebo boasts two lodging buildings which can collectively accommodate 20 guests.

Originally built as a dance pavilion, the 1893 Victorian-era Clubhouse with its covered porch easily accommodates 17 guests, with nine bedrooms and 7½ bathrooms five with antique claw-foot tubs. There’s plenty of space to spread out through the fully-equipped chef’s kitchen, dining hall, game room, library and large living room with a stone fireplace.

The rustic Trunk House – which once was a storage facility for the campers’ luggage – is a large, one-room studio with vaulted ceilings, living and dining areas, kitchenette, queen bed and twin bed, and a bathroom with a claw foot tub and shower.

Situated in the heart of the Manistee National Forest, Camp Tosebo is the ideal setting for a quiet autumn escape, where time is spent walking the trails, paddling the lake, catching up on a good book and relaxing in front of the fireplace. Whether planning a romantic weekend, a family reunion or group gathering, the outdoor splendor and indoor relaxation of Camp Tosebo cannot be compared. Find out for yourself!

www.Tosebo.com

Upcoming Fundraisers to Benefit Capital Campaign for Fulton Street Farmers Market Improvements

2011-09-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

The Fulton Street Farmers Market (FSFM), located in the southeast corner of the Midtown Neighborhood, is the last remaining of three original Grand Rapids farmers markets established in the early 1900s. Originally constructed in 1922, the market has retained its regional popularity over the years. Drawing more than 8000 patrons per week during the peak of the season, the market generates millions of dollars worth of revenue for local growers each season.

With the recent influx in “buy local” initiatives, the Fulton Street Farmers Market is seeing a resurgence in both the number of participating growers and in customers. As such, the market is literally busting out at its seams. Earlier this year, a $2.0 million dollar “Our Goodness is Growing Campaign” was announced by the Midtown Neighborhood Association, which will generate funds to provide much needed infrastructure improvements to the space, including:

• Permanently covered, open-air sheds with increased water and electricity access points
• Reconstructed plaza with added space for seating, bicycle storage and vendor overflow
• A small LEED-certified building with indoor stalls for year round vending
• Traffic flow reconfiguration
• New parking area pavement, landscaping and striping
• Two sets of wheelchair-accessible restrooms
• Complete site re-grading to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards
• Upgraded heating / cooling systems, insulation and wiring
• Rebuilding of the east side retaining wall
• Storm water retention system reconstruction

“When complete, the renovated Market will offer a better overall experience, more capable of serving local neighbors, area shoppers and our regional farming vendors,” says Diane Griffin, Campaign Chair. “Most importantly, the facility upgrades will provide a space where people can continue to enjoy the finest in locally-grown food, flowers and other goods.”

To date, $1.6 million of the project funds have been raised, leaving just $400,000 to go. Thanks to the strong fundraising efforts and a dedicated group of community leaders and volunteers, organizers will break ground on the new facility in November and celebrate the grand re-opening in May, 2012.

Upcoming fundraising events to benefit the Fulton Street Farmers Market “Our Goodness is Growing” campaign include:

Friday, September 16 (6-9pm)
An Evening in the Neighborhood
From the Heart Yoga Center
714 Wealthy Street SE
Relax and enjoy a delicious dinner provided by local restaurants, using locally-grown goods, as well as local wine and cider pressed from West Michigan apples. Participate in the silent auction for local goods and services and listen to the music from Jimmie Stagger and local chef & blues guitarist Jim Powell and his son, Sam.

Tickets $50 each (including food & drinks) are available at:

o Fulton Street Farmers Market (in office near Fulton)
o From the Heart Yoga Center (on Wealthy)
o Jeffrey Richard Salon (on Wealthy)
o Art of the Table (on Wealthy)
o BarterTown Diner (on Jefferson)
o Grand Central Market (on Monroe Center)
o Or by calling 616-328-9547.

Tuesday, September 27 (11am-1pm | 4-8pm)
Brick Sale for Fulton Street Farmers Market
Grand Central Market
57 Monroe Center, Downtown Grand Rapids
Local singer/songwriter Susan Picking will provide music throughout the day. Purchase a brick or paver and have your name forever etched into the history of the market.

o Brick (2.5x8 inches | one line | 16 characters): $35
o Half Paver (4x8 inches | three lines | 14 characters per line): $50
o Full Paver (8x8 inches | four lines, 14 characters per line): $100

Wednesday, October 5 (11am-1pm | 4-8pm)
Brick Sale for Fulton Street Farmers Market
BarterTown Diner – 6 Jefferson Street

o Brick (2.5x8 inches | one line | 16 characters): $35
o Half Paver (4x8 inches | three lines | 14 characters per line): $50
o Full Paver (8x8 inches | four lines, 14 characters per line): $100

Wednesday, October 19 (5-9pm)
An Evening in the Piazza
Tre Cugini’s La Scala Banquet Room
125 Ottawa, Downtown Grand Rapids (Ledyard Building)
Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by Tre Cugini’s culinary team – using locally-grown ingredients. Participate in the silent auction for goods and services donated by local businesses. A cash bar will be available.

Tickets $75 each (including food & drinks) are available at:

o Fulton Street Farmers Market (in office near Fulton)
o BarterTown Diner (on Jefferson)
o Grand Central Market (on Monroe Center)
o Or by calling 616-328-9547.

Owned by the City of Grand Rapids and managed by the 501(c)3 Midtown Neighborhood Association, improvements to the Market fall under the auspices of the Parks & Recreation Master Plan. All charitable gifts to the campaign are tax deductible to the full extent of state and federal law.

www.FultonStreetMarket.org
www.facebook.com/FultonStMarket
www.twitter.com/FultonStFarmers

Circa Estate Winery Releases “Mosaic” – Michigan’s first Appassimento-style wine

2011-08-23T05:23:00.000-07:00

Circa Estate Winery has announced the upcoming release of Michigan’s first commercially produced appassimento-style wine. Christened “Mosaic,” this dry white wine is a blend of white grape varieties that have been partially dried prior to fermentation.

“The great Amarone winemakers of Italy employ the appassimento technique,” says winemaker Margaret Bell. “Removing some of the water from the grape by partial drying leaves an amazing juice of concentrated flavors. What we have done is translate those methods to the wonderful, aromatic white wines of the Leelanau Peninsula.”

“Appassimento” involves bringing grapes inside after harvest and placing them on drying racks for a period of weeks or months, allowing moisture to slowly evaporate from the berries and producing a juice of pronounced character. The percentage of fermentable sugar in the berry is also increased.

“We used specially made white oak racks and kept the fruit in a controlled humidity environment, allowing us to control and monitor the rate and degree of evaporation. By weighing and tasting the berries weekly we were able to stop the process at the ideal time. Biting into the grapes was like a flavor dance on my tongue.” Bell says. “As with an artists’ mosaic, this wine is a piecing together of parts to create something unique and beautiful. It is a hand-crafted, unfiltered palette of flavors.”

Mosaic is the first wine being released under Circa’s new Artisan Series line of wines. These wines represent smaller production, limited release offerings which Bell will be producing in addition to Circa’s regular lineup of Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Improvisation, Requisite and Cabernet Franc. The Artisan Series wine labels will feature reproductions of local artworks that comprise the Circa tasting room collection. The Mosaic label features the painting ‘Ebullience’ by Traverse City artist Charles Murphy.

Mosaic garnered its first gold medal at the recent Michigan Wine and Spirits Competition and is being shipped this week to members of the Circa Wine Society, prior to its public release on September 2. The Bells will be pouring the new wine and answering questions at a special release party from 6-10pm on Friday, September 2 on the Circa patio. Live music and small plates will round out the festivities.

Circa is located at 7788 East Horn Road in Lake Leelanau on the Leelanau Peninsula.

www.CircaWinery.com
www.facebook.com/CircaEstate

Brys Estate Wins “Hardings Cup” During 2011 Michigan Cab-Franc Challenge

2011-08-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

For the second time in three years, Brys Estate’s 2007 Artisan Series Cabernet Franc has been awarded with the “Hardings Cup” – the coveted prize of the Michigan Cab-Franc Challenge. This vintage was also the top gold medal winner in 2009, during the inaugural year for the competition. Ironically, Brys’ 2007 Cabernet Franc was the 3rd place bronze medalists both years as well – tying this year with the 2005 Cab Franc from Free Run Cellars.

The Michigan Cab Franc Challenge, which was held Thursday, August 18 at the WK Kellogg Manor House on Gull Lake in Hickory Corners, is the brainchild of Terry Stingley of Harding’s Friendly markets in Kalamazoo.

“Winning this amazing award twice in the last three years shows my commitment to producing world class and varietally-correct Cabernet Francs. I am very pleased and am looking forward to walking a long road with this amazing varietal.” says Brys Estate winemaker Coenraad Stassen. “I’d also like to thank Terry Stingley and the Harding’s team for their ongoing dedication to Michigan wines in general and the Cab Franc varietal specifically. Our wine industry has continued to raise the bar when it comes to producing world-class wines, and competitions such as this allow us the platform on which to showcase the fruits of our labor.”

The Brys Estate medal-winning wines from the 2011 Michigan Cab Franc Challenge include:

• 2007 Artisan Series Cab Franc:
The 2007 Brys Estate Cabernet Franc showcases the terroir of our beautiful estate vineyard. It is rich and complex with plum and dark berry flavors. On the nose this wine has hints of cigar box, leather, and sweet mint. This wine offers a luscious mouth feel with hints of dark chocolate and berry. A soft white pepper spice on the finish completes this wine. Enjoy our Cabernet Franc with red meats, especially lamb, or any seasonal game, or simply by itself.

• 2007 Cab Franc:
The 2007 Brys Estate Cabernet Franc showcases the terroir of our beautiful estate vineyard. It is rich and complex with cherry and dark berry flavors. This wine offers a luscious mouth feel with hints of dark chocolate and berry. A soft spice on the finish completes this wine. Enjoy our Cabernet Franc with red meats, especially lamb, or any seasonal game, or simply by itself.

Other Michigan medalists for the 2011 competition include Domaine Berrien 2005, 2nd Place; Hickory Creek 2007, 4th Place; and Domaine Berrien 2002, 5th Place.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery is centrally located in the heart of the Old Mission Peninsula – situated on 80 acres with breathtaking views of East Grand Traverse Bay – in Traverse City, Michigan. This boutique winery began with the planting of 32 acres of European vinifera grapes in 2001 and opened the tasting room in May of 2005. Using the highest quality standards, Brys hand picks its grapes and hand crafts its small batch, single vineyard wines, giving attention to every detail during the crushing, fermenting, aging and bottling process. You are invited to visit Brys Estate's old world-style tasting room and new outdoor patio this summer to sample their International award-winning estate wines.

www.BrysEstate.com
www.Facebook.com/BrysEstate
www.Twitter.com/BrysEstate

4th Annual Great Lakes Cider & Perry Festival Planned for Sept 10 at Uncle John’s Cider Mill

2011-08-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

More than one hundred different ciders and perries will be available for sampling from producers throughout the Great Lakes region at the 4th Annual Great Lakes Cider & Perry Festival, September 10, at Uncle John’s Cider Mill at 8614 N US 127, St. Johns – just north of Lansing. The festival is presented by the Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association.

A special VIP hour runs from 11am until Noon, which includes a special pour of cider from participating cideries and a unique cheese station featuring local and international selections. Special presentations from Pete Brown and Bill Bradshaw from England and Dick Dunn, editor of the Cider Digest, are also planned. VIP admission is $25 and also includes a commemorative glass and 10 sample pours.

General festival admission runs from Noon to 5pm. At $15 per person, regular admission includes a commemorative glass and 10 sample pours. Group tickets are also available for general admission ($25 for 2 tickets | $40 for 4 tickets | $75 for 10 tickets). The group rate for VIP is $10 additional for each VIP admission. Members of the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association (MLBA) and Techniques of Alcohol Management (TAM) trained staff receive free regular admission.

Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.greatlakescider.com/ciderfest.html

All profit proceeds from the festival benefit the Great Lake Cider & Perry Association (est. 2008). Find them online at www.GreatLakesCider.com.

www.facebook.com/GreatLakesCiderPerry
www.twitter.com/GreatLakesCider

The Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association (GLCPA) is a nonprofit organization formed to showcase and promote fermented apple and pear beverages and to help educate consumers and producers about them. Our members include both commercial and non-commercial producers, as well as affiliate members located outside the region. Come join us at one of our events and discover some of the finest North American ciders and perries!

Tall Ship Manitou Offers Multi-Day Sailing Experiences on Grand Traverse Bay

2011-08-15T06:35:00.000-07:00

You are invited to escape the daily grind of monotony, meetings and technology, by setting sail on a relaxing multi-day excursion on one of the Great Lakes most treasured bodies of water: Grand Traverse Bay. The Traverse Tall Ship Company is once again offering a series of educational and entertaining experiential cruises throughout the month of September aboard the Schooner Manitou.

• Astronomy Cruise (September 16-19, 2011).

Astronomer Mark Nussbaum will be our guide as we study the brilliant northern Michigan heavens. Hillsdale College professor and avid amateur astronomer Mark Nussbaum will be our guide to the moon and stars as we study the brilliant northern Michigan heavens.

Charting a course just like sailors centuries before, this is a weekend for those who are awed by the vast wonders of the sky. Passengers will see how the stars rise and set, just like the sun, and appear to circle around Polaris (the North Star) as the earth rotates. Passengers may bring their own small telescope or binoculars. A telescope and half-dozen pairs of binoculars will be aboard the ship for the group to share.

Nussbaum will provide star charts and discuss the distances and sizes of the stars and how it is that we are actually looking back in time as we view deeper into space. A professor of analytical chemistry and chemistry for non-science majors, Mark has taken courses in astronomy and astrophysics and has taught astronomy at the college level. He’s also led or assisted at outdoor viewing sessions on several occasions.

• Wine Tasting Cruise (September 23-26, 2011).

Explore the great wine regions of the world with Jerome Smith, Partner and Director of Sales for Select Fine Wine in Traverse City. Each evening aboard Manitou he will discuss the winemaking histories and taste the varietals from several different countries. Dinners will feature paired wines, chosen as a perfect complement to our meals.

Jerome has an extensive 30 year background in the wine industry, working at all levels of the trade. He started his career as a sommelier in top New York restaurants, has managed fine wine wholesalers and has worked as a national supplier. Today, Jerome is a partner and the Director of sales for Select Fine Wine, a national wine importer specializing in New Zealand, Argentina, Chile and Spain. Jerome holds an undergraduate degree in film and television from Michigan State University and a law degree from Fordham University. He is a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers and a Certified Wine Specialist with the Society of Wine Educators. In addition, Jerome is a certified Spanish Wine Educator with the Wine Academy of Spain.

• Music Cruise (September 30-October 3, 2011).

Join us as we once again welcome renowned folk singer Lee Murdock aboard for four days of Great Lakes music, history, and lore. It’s always a treat to have Great Lakes folk singer Lee Murdock join us aboard Manitou as he brings the history, legends, and characters of the Great Lakes to life through song and story. This one usually brings back old friends who have sailed with us in years past…..an added bonus!

Lee Murdock has uncovered a boundless body of music and stories in the Great Lakes. There is an amazing timelessness in this music. Great Lakes songs are made of hard word, hard living, ships that go down and ships that come in. The music is grounded in the work song tradition, from the rugged days of lumberjacks and wooden sailing schooners.

Murdock comes alongside with ballads of contemporary commerce and revelry in the grand folk style. Lee's fans have discovered a sweetwater treasure in his songs about the Great Lakes, finding drama and inspiration in the lives of sailors and fishermen, lighthouse keepers, ghosts, shipwrecks, outlaws and everyday heroes.
As one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes, the Manitou is a replica of an 1800s “coasting” cargo schooner. A traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, Manitou measures 114 feet in length with more than 3000 square feet of sail.

With a 60 passenger sailing capacity (24 overnight in 12 double-bunk cabins), there is plenty of space for sitting and moving around the decks while under sail. While aboard the Manitou, passengers are free to leave the sailing to the experienced crew or lend a hand and learn the arts of the sailor. An excursion aboard the Manitou allows you to remove yourself from the trappings of modern life: no TV, phone (cell phones are discouraged), email and definitely no itinerary.

The cost for each of these multi-day windjammer excursions is $685 per person (all inclusive). To make reservations, call toll free 800-678-0383. Gift certificates are also available. For additional information about the Manitou, including its corporate charters, log onto www.tallshipsailing.com. (www.facebook.com/TallShipManitou)

Wings of Wonder Screech Owl Release at The Homestead (Thursday, August 4)

2011-08-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

The Homestead and Wings of Wonder invite you to a raptor release on Thursday, August 4, 2011 at the resort’s Camp Tam-A-Rack outdoor amphitheatre. Wings of Wonder will have 2 young eastern screech owls ready for release to a natural habitat.

Rebecca Lessard, Executive Director of Wings of Wonder, will present a program called “The Wonders of Raptors” from 7-8pm which is free and open to the community. The owl release will happen right after the program.

Participants who purchase a $20 tickets will be placed into a drawing for an opportunity to hold the owl and do the actual release as a fund-raiser for the raptor program. Contest entrants must be 18 years old to enter, with no limit of the number of tickets an individual can purchase. Two winners will be able to name the owl and do the actual release.

Bring your camera!

The Homestead is presenting three programs with Wings of Wonder this summer as a part of their special events for the season along with mountaintop concerts and cooking classes with Chef John Piombo. For more information on events at The Homestead, visit http://www.thehomesteadresort.com/special-events.php.

The Homestead is northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located at the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offer guests pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross-country skiing in the winter and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and luxurious spa throughout all four seasons.

For more information on The Homestead, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100.

For more information on Wings of Wonder, visit www.wingsofwonder.org.

Starring Family Celebrates 30th Summer of Pure Michigan Fun in the Sun with Saugatuck Dune Rides

2011-07-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

Mile after magnificent mile of sugar-sand beach skirt the shoreline of Lake Michigan, just waiting to be explored. The Saugatuck Dune Rides has been offering a one-of-a-kind experience for generations and this year, the Starring family celebrates their 30th anniversary with one of West Michigan’s premier summer attractions.

“Our goal is to provide guests with 35-40 minutes of entertainment, fun and excitement,” says Linus Starring. “We provide a unique tour to learn about local vegetation and wildlife, the natural surroundings of Lake Michigan and the lost “ghost town” of Singapore.”

Dune rides in the Saugatuck area date back to 1954, when Ron Jousma (then 21 and home from the Army) decided that Saugatuck needed a dune ride offering similar to what was taking place up the coastline in the Silver Lake Sand Dunes area. He bought the present dune property, west of Goshorn Lake, from a Chicago man and turned his 1942 Ford convertible into a dune buggy – with added seats in the rumble seat.

Later, he added Ford coupes (1946 and 1947) to which he cut off the tops and outfitted the cars with super-wide tires. Then, he took to forming trails through the dunes.

In 1961, Jousma and a friend picked up two half-ton Ford truck chassis and drove them back from Kansas City, sitting on wooden boxes. These were outfitted with steel beds and seats, adding to the fleet of buggies. Later on, Dodge power wagons were added, equipped with aircraft tires to handle the unforgiving sand.

Ten years later, in 1971, Jousma opened a dune ride in the Great Sand Dunes National Monument in Colorado, operating both facilities until selling them to an Indiana family in 1978.

Linus and Janice Starring purchased Saugatuck Dune Rides in 1981. It was a new adventure, as the couple had never even ridden on the schooners until they inspected them prior to purchasing the business. The past 30 years, the family has made their contribution to the Pure Michigan summer experience in the Saugatuck area.

The company now boasts a fleet of eight dune schooners and employs 10 full time and six part time employees during its six-month season (April 30-October 23, 2011). On average, 30,000 people take the dune rides each summer – with visitors coming from all over the country and the world.

In addition to all the fun and games on the dunes, there is the constant maintenance – on both the fleet and the dunes. Shifting sands require daily grading of the trails to make them safe for passengers. Driving in sand means the schooners need oil changes and engine maintenance every 100 miles.

During the off-season, Linus – who holds a degree in heavy equipment – is a railroad engineer for two small freight lines in Michigan. That’s in addition to the fabrication and updating of equipment for the next season. Meanwhile, Janice manages the all the office duties, handling all booking and scheduling for the popular attraction.

Saugatuck Dune Rides is located at 6495 Blue Star Highway in Saugatuck. Find them online at www.SaugatuckDuneRide.com (and on Facebook: Saugatuck Dune Rides). For reservations, call 269-857-2253 (saugatuckdunerides@gmail.com).

www.HollandAttractions.com

Robinette’s Hosts “Everything Peaches” Centennial Event - Saturday, August 13

2011-07-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

In celebration of its 100th year, Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery has been holding a number of events throughout the year that are fun for the whole family. For the coming month, Robinette’s will host an “Everything Peaches” centennial event, Saturday, August 13 from 10am–5pm.

The event will consist of an all day sale on select peach items. Merchandise will be discounted anywhere from 10-25% off. These sale items will include: peach sundaes, peach pie, peach butter, peach strudels and turnovers, peach jam, peach gummy rings, peach muffin mix, peach pie plates, all pie crust mix, peach flavored popcorn, and peach donuts. Robinette’s unique Passionate Peach Spumante will also be at a discount. Fresh peaches and free wine tastings will also be featured, as well as the opportunity to hop on Robinette’s giant jumping pillow.

Founded in 1911 by Barzilla Robinette, the farm hits its centennial mark this year. Over the decades, Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery has grown to offer much to the Grand Rapids community. The farm grows apples, peaches, cherries, nectarines, and apricots. The Apple Haus has a lunchroom, bakery, fresh donuts, and a cider mill. The Gift Barn features the wine tasting and gift shop.

Located at 3142 4 Mile Rd NE in Grand Rapids, Robinette’s Apple Haus Winery is a Michigan Centennial Farm operated by the fourth- and fifth-generation Robinette family since 1911.

www.Robinettes.com
www.facebook.com/Robinettes

Governor Snyder Declares August “Michigan Camping & RV Month”

2011-07-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

For generations, Michigan has welcomed campers and RVers to its natural woodlands, freshwater shorelines and beaches, in two distinct peninsulas – nestled in the middle of the Great Lakes Region.

In honor of such tradition, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, along with several legislators, has declared August as “Michigan Camping & Recreation Vehicle Month.” Camping is a key contributor to the state’s $17 billion tourism industry. The declaration supports the economic and recreational contributions that the camping industry contributes to Michigan’s overall tourism.

Both Michiganders and visitors alike take advantage of the state’s array of sun, freshwater coastline, 19 million acres of woodlands, soft breezes and fresh air, where the temperate climate allows for great camping and outdoor recreation–making it the ultimate Pure Michigan experience!

Michigan has more than 950 licensed private recreation vehicle parks and campgrounds, with more than 111,000 licensed campsites. The state has more than 160 county or government operated campgrounds with over 14,700 sites–from rustic to full-service. Michigan also boasts over 300,000 licensed recreation vehicles, including motorhomes and travel trailers. In 2010, Michigan ranked third in the nation in new recreation vehicle sales.

Camping and RVing encourages visitors and locals alike to partake in activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, paddling, pedaling, golfing, geocaching, nature watching, photography, and other outdoor activities, which also highlight Michigan’s great outdoor parks and recreation areas.

Michigan is home to 98 state parks and recreation areas–as well as 133 state forest campgrounds–under the auspices of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and seven forests/parks/lakeshores in Michigan under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service. Collectively, Michigan offers 15,000 sites on state and federal lands designated for camping.

Michigan’s two non-profit camping organizations: ARVC Michigan–the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds of Michigan and MARVAC–the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles & Campgrounds equally promote and support private campground and RV parks throughout the state.

All state lands are managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, while the national parks and lakeshores are managed by the National Park Service and/or the U.S. Forest Service. All campgrounds – including the companion recreational activities – are among the tourism destinations promoted by Travel Michigan and its award-winning Pure Michigan campaign.

www.MichiganCampingAndRVMonth.com

Unity Vibration Releases Nation's First Pure Kombucha Beer at Michigan Summer Beer Fest

2011-07-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

Attendees at the 14th Annual Michigan Summer Beer Festival will have the opportunity to sample the nation’s first pure Kombucha beer – crafted locally by Tarek and Rachel Kanaan of Unity Vibration Living Kombucha Tea. The festival will be held this weekend, July 22-23, at Riverside Park in Ypsilanti’s Depot Town.

Relatively new on the American scene, Kombucha is a raw, living, fermented, naturally-carbonated, unpasteurized beverage – with a long history in Russia and China. The lightly sparkling beverage is made by fermenting black or green tea and sugar with a culture of various bacteria and yeasts (often referred to as a SCOBY: Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast).

“You feed the Kombucha mushroom the black tea and sugar and it converts most of the sugar,” says Tarek. “This process creates many beneficial acids, enzymes and viable probiotics.”

Kombucha also contains anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals and more, which help people to balance their metabolism, aid in digestion, raise energy levels, detoxify and alkalinize the body and is even said to help prevent or heal cancer.

Unity Vibration will have three flavors of brew available at the Summer Beer Festival, including plain, pineapple/ginger and the current seasonal: strawberry rhubarb.

Triple Goddess Kombucha Beer will also be available. Described as a marriage of 30 day brewed Kombucha, featuring organic dried hops and either organic raw ginger or organic fresh raspberries, the brew is open air fermented in a Lambic-style, then oak barrel aged and bottle conditioned.

“Our Triple Goddess yields a unique refreshing exceptional fruit beer,” says Rachel. “The refreshing and slightly vinegar character of Kombucha is a perfect complement to the bitter hops and aromatic fruit. We are an all organic and gluten free product that contains 8-9% alcohol by volume.”

Each batch is brewed by hand and infused with healthy, fresh organic ingredients, as well as positive and loving intentions.

Unity Vibration has been in business for about two years – producing non-alcoholic beverages. Last summer, the federal government issued testing for all Kombuchas on the market. Many came in over .5% alcohol – as they are all raw and viable living creations – changes were required.

“We decided to go the route of ‘microbrewery’ to keep all of our products authentic and to not be forced to dealcoholize, says Tarek, who has experience in brewing wine and beer from wild edibles, as well as more traditional ingredients.

What makes the Kombucha from Unity Vibration different? It’s homemade, meaning the full potency of the enzymes is apparent. The couple began experimenting and brewing their own Kombucha in 2007, playing around with the various unique formulas and flavors. Their products were first introduced to the marketplace in 2009.

Now, under distributorship with Imperial Beverage, their products are found in more than 50 retail outlets statewide. They will also be offering for the first time a single serving bottle and new labels for all of their products created by Flow Design out of Northville. Rachel says: “It is like New Years Eve for us and we are coming in with an incredible BANG! This is really going to take off for us and we are ready!”

In the not too distant future, the Kanaans will be living on their own family farm, growing much of what they infuse into their flavored Kombuchas.

www.unityvibrationkombucha.com

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Take A Ride Through History Along the West Michigan Pike

2011-07-13T07:22:00.000-07:00

Vintage Views Along the West Michigan Pike: From Sand Trails to US-31by M. Christine Byron & Tom Wilson

The West Michigan Pike, now US-31, is a 400-mile meandering ribbon of road, hugging the coast of Lake Michigan from Michigan City, Indiana to Mackinaw City, Michigan and passing through many small beach towns along the way. Its 1913 slogan, “Lakeshore All the Way” sums up the main feature of this gem of a travel route. The road is sometimes called Michigan’s Route 66.

In their new book, Vintage Views Along the West Michigan Pike: From Sand Trails to US-31, seasoned authors M. Christine Byron & Thomas R. Wilson tell the story of this road’s early beginning as serpentine sand trails and rutted dirt pathways and its transformation to US-31 used by today’s traveler.

“Actually, road improvement was first sought by bicyclists, a craze that swept the country in the 1880s,” explains co-author and Grand Rapids librarian, Christine Byron. “It was the Michigan Wheelmen, an association of bicyclists, who campaigned the legislature to allow each county to adopt a county road system. That really got the ball rolling for road improvement.”

The West Michigan Pike Association was formed in 1913 by boosters from lakeshore communities who knew that a good road would promote tourism, farming, and commercial pursuits along the lakeshore.

The book starts out with a recommendation from Ernest Hemingway in a 1919 letter to his Chicago pals Jenks and Barney, preparing them for their trip to Horton Bay, (near the location of the Hemmingway family’s summer retreat at Walloon Lake), to take the West Michigan Pike, “a pretty good road” and that the trip could be made in three days. Our research road sleuths, Christine and Tom, retraced the original Pike using vintage maps and allow readers to time-travel back to the small towns and villages through their collection of photos and postcards.

This is the fourth book in the Vintage View series. Previous books are: the award winning, Vintage Views of Leelanau County and Vintage Views of the Charlevoix-Petoskey Region and also Vintage Views of the Mackinac Straits Region.

The book is available through independent booksellers, chain bookstores and online.

www.ArbutusPress.com

Vintage Views Facebook

Grand Rapids Author Tobin T. Buhk Releases Latest Murderous Title - True Crime: Michigan

2011-07-12T13:31:00.000-07:00

Take a trip back through Michigan’s bloody past among the pages of True Crime: Michigan, the latest title from West Michigan author, Tobin T. Buhk.

True Crime: Michigan examines crime in the state and explores the landmark cases of robbery, mob activity and murder that have received national attention. They’re all here – some of the most notorious fiends in Michigan’s inglorious criminal history:

• Arthur Warren Waite, who attempted to inherit a fortune by poisoning his in-laws.
• Northern Peninsula terrors Dan Dunn and Jim Summers, criminal kings of Michigan’s wild frontier.
• Andrew Kehoe, the “Michigan Maniac,” who blew up a school full of
children in Bath, Mich.
• Raymond Bernstein, the engineer of Detroit’s “Collingwood Manor Massacre.”
• Martha Beck and Raymond Fernandez, the “Lonely Hearts” killers.
• John Norman Collins, the “Co-ed killer”.
• A line-up of hit men who all claimed to have murdered Jimmy Hoffa.
• Coral Watts, “The Sunday Morning Slasher.”
• Plus many others.

“Tobin Buhk’s roundup of Michigan misdeeds includes fascinating true tales of the Great Lakes State’s darker side and more,” writes Michigan author Mardi Link, author of When Evil Came to Good Hart and Isadore’s Secret.

True Crime: Michigan is available at retail outlets and online resources now, and is published by Stackpole Books.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tobin T. Buhk is a Grand Rapids-based freelance writer and coauthor (with Dr. Stephen D. Cohle, Kent County Medical Examiner) of Cause of Death: Forensic Files of a Medical Examiner (2007) and Skeletons in the Closet: Tales from the County Morgue (2008).

www.TobinBuhk.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tobin-T-Buhk/219482798077820

Michigan-Made Valentine Vodka Awarded Double-Gold from TheFiftyBest.com

2011-07-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

TheFiftyBest.com has awarded Michigan-made Valentine Vodka with a Double-Gold during its 2011 “Best Domestic Vodka” tasting, held recently at Beacon Restaurant & Bar in New York City.

Twenty-eight journalists, retailers and aficionados tasted 28 small-batch, handcrafted American vodkas. The products were served "blindly", without distractions of brand names. The order of service was randomly selected through a lottery system. Each of the vodkas were poured into fresh glasses from new sealed bottles, and served at slightly above room temperature. There were four flights of seven vodkas each.

The scoring was done on a 5-point system, with 5 as the best. The totals were added up, with the winners determined from 1 to 28, based on the scores received. Ties are listed alphabetically. Gold, Silver and Bronze medals were awarded based on the scores received.

The vodkas that scored over a designated point threshold – including Valentine Vodka – were awarded Double-Gold medals. The tasting notes that follow the rankings are a summary of the results, and all replicate commentary has been eliminated while contrasting opinions have been summarized.

As one of the first distilleries in the world to use a triple-grain recipe – a unique blend of barley, red Michigan wheat and corn, Valentine Vodka displays “vanilla, nutmeg, butterscotch, honey, toffee, creamy, buttery, grain, mineral, smooth, velvety, delicate, dry, nice, clean, peppermint, mellow, light sweet finish,” according to the judges.

According to TheFiftyBest.com, there are eight states that boast five or more craft vodka distilleries – including Michigan (as well as California, Colorado, New York, Oregon, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin), with a recent resurgence.

“Much like craft brewers and vintners, the highly entrepreneurial master distillers proudly use local grains (or potatoes, corn, grapes, honey, apples) and water to produce their small batch craft vodkas,” it reads on the website. “These ‘homegrown’ ingredients impart distinctive character and flavors to the finished products. This local craft approach has proven successful. Even though most of the domestic vodka brands are available only within the state they are produced, they usually sell out their entire production— ensuring future expansion for the enjoyment of vodka lovers everywhere.”

TheFiftyBest.com is a guide to fine living, featuring unbiased reviews of restaurants, food, wine & spirits, travel, and more. Or simply, a good taste guide to things that taste good.

As Detroit’s first micro distilled spirit since Prohibition, the award-winning Valentine Vodka is well on its way to setting the standard for ultra-premium hand-crafted vodka with its clean, crisp and uniquely flavorful taste.

Last year, Valentine Vodka was awarded a Gold medal ranking during the Beverage Tasting Institute (BTI) 2010 International Review of Spirits Competition – the largest and most prestigious annual spirits competition in the United States. The BTI gave Valentine Vodka a rating of 90 in the “Unflavored Vodka” category.

Rifino Valentine – the man behind Valentine Vodka – is a native of Leelanau County. A graduate of Cornell University, where he earned a BA in Economics, Rifino spent 11 years on Wall Street as an independent trader before founding his own successful trading firm. He returned to his home state in 2005 to fulfill his dream of creating Valentine Vodka.

Through his hand-crafted products, Rifino hopes to draw on the inspiration and history that the City of Detroit brings when it comes to distilled spirits, as he develops and grows Valentine Vodka. After three years of intense research and study, Valentine Vodka reached the market in March, 2009. From Christmas 2009 to the same time 2010, sales for Valentine Vodka has quadrupled in sales and can now be found in more than 900 outlets throughout Michigan and Illinois.

For a list of retail outlets carrying Valentine Vodka, as well as a menu of signature cocktails, log onto www.valentinevodka.com (www.facebook.com/valentinevodka).

Wings of Wonder Program Offered Free to Guests at The Homestead Resort

2011-07-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

Guests and club members at The Homestead will be treated to a series of free nature-based programs this summer with “The Wonders of Raptors” – by Rebecca Lessard of Wings of Wonder. The programs will be offered in the Camp Tamarack amphitheatre.

Lessard will present a one-hour program that includes a basic introduction to Michigan raptors, an opportunity to meet some of our ambassador raptors up close and view a display of raptor artifacts 9wings, feathers, talons and pellets). Usually, 3-4 raptors attend each presentation and guests are encourages to bring their cameras to the program.

Programs will be offered:

• Wednesday, July 20 (7-8pm)
• Thursday, August 4 (7-8pm)
• Thursday, August 11(3-5pm)

The final program will incorporate an activity where guests can build a nest box for three of Michigan’s smallest raptors: the eastern screech owl, the northern saw whet owl and the little American kestrel. The next boxes will later be mounted on a trail system on The Homestead’s property. Guests and visitors will be able to walk the trail throughout the year looking for these nest boxes and any current raptor residents.

Wings of Wonder is a non-profit raptor sanctuary located in nearby Empire, although it is not open to the public. Active since 1990, the organization’s primary mission is education. Wings of Wonder presents almost 150 educational programs annually throughout Michigan, reaching almost 10,000 people each year. Presentations are designed to foster appreciation, understanding, honor and respect for raptors and the important role these birds play in healthy ecosystems.

Wings of Wonder is also a raptor rehabilitation and release facility. Sick, injured and/or orphaned raptors are admitted for treatment, rehabilitation, and eventual release back to the wild. All raptors are seen and evaluated by a team of participating veterinarians. The primary goal with rehabilitation is to release healthy and strong raptors back into the wild.

Lessard has been a wildlife rehabilitator and educator since 1990. She currently holds rehabilitation permits from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the United States Fish & Wildlife Service and is also permitted to possess non-releasable raptors for use in educational programs. In 2009, she received the “Person of the Year” award from Boy Scout Pack 87 of Traverse City; in 2007, she received the Northern Michigan "Environmentalist of the Year" award in Education; and in 2001 was presented the President’s Award by the Michigan Audubon Society for her continuing work with raptors.

For more information on the Wings of Wonder, and Rebecca Lessard, visit www.wingsofwonder.org.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100.

Short’s Brewing Company Sets Sail Aboard Tall Ship Manitou for Sunday Evening Microbrew Cruises

2011-07-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

Looking for a unique venue for sampling your favorite craft beers from Short’s Brewing Company? The Traverse Tall Ship Company is hosting its “Microbrew Tasting Cruise” every Sunday evening from July 3 -September 4 (6:30-8:30pm). Pizza from the popular Crusted Creations will also be served. The cost is $50 per person and space is limited to 60 per sail.

“What an awesome beer adventure,” says Jon “Woj” Wojtowicz, Short’s Beer Liberator. “I’m really excited about the rest of the summer and couldn't thank you enough for coming up with such an amazing idea.”

As the ship’s captain sails across Grand Traverse Bay, Woj (or another Short’s representative) will discuss and share four unique beer samples, and share Short’s brewing philosophy and role in Michigan’s overall craft brewing scene.

In addition to the Microbrew Tasting Cruises, the Tall Ship Manitou offers Moomers Ice Cream Sails – Mondays and Fridays from 3-5pm, through September 2; Wine Tasting Cruises – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-8:30pm, June 28-September 1; and Entertainment Cruises – Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30pm, July 6-August 31.

Multi-day windjammers are held during the fall season including the Astronomy Cruise (September 16-19); Wine Tasting Cruise (September 23-26); and Music Cruise (September 30-October 3).

The Manitou also offers a unique “Floating B&B” experience which includes the evening sail (Tuesday through Saturday), accommodations in bunk-style cabins and breakfast the next morning.

Whether traveling solo, as a couple, with a family or as part of a group, a Tall Ship sail makes a memorable traditional Great Lakes adventure. As one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes, the Manitou is a replica of an 1800s “coasting” cargo schooner. A traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, Manitou measures 114 feet in length with more than 3000 square feet of sail.

With a 60 passenger sailing capacity (24 overnight capacity), there is plenty of space for sitting and moving around the decks while under sail. While aboard the Manitou, passengers are free to leave the sailing to the experienced crew or lend a hand and learn the arts of the sailor. An excursion aboard the Manitou allows you to remove yourself from the trappings of modern life: no TV, phone (cell phones are discouraged), beeper, email and definitely no itinerary.

To make reservations for any of the 2011 Manitou sailing adventures, call toll free 800-678-0383. Gift certificates are also available.

For additional information about the Manitou, including its corporate charters, log on to www.tallshipsailing.com. (www.facebook.com/TallShipManitou)

Reserve GR Food & Wine Bar Welcomes Brandon Joldersma as Sommelier, Manager

2011-07-01T06:41:00.000-07:00

Reserve GR has named Brandon Joldersma as its new Sommelier and Manager.

Brandon says his interest in the culinary world was first piqued when he was waiting tables at Alpenrose in Holland.

“I've always loved food, but getting on the other side of the table turned me on to how quality service – as well as a quality product – hugely impact the dining experience and how wine plays an important role in complimenting and enhancing a meal,” says Brandon.

From there, Brandon took on the role of Assistant General Manager and Sommelier at Butch’s Dry Dock, also in Holland. The restaurant, which holds a prestigious “Best of Award of Excellence” ranking from Wine Spectator, (something only 788 restaurants in the country currently have), was where Brandon says he dove head-first into the wine scene.

“As I immersed myself in the restaurant world, my passion for the industry became fully realized,” he says. “I’ve never bothered to come up for air since.”

In addition to his managerial duties at Butch’s, Brandon was in charge of the purchasing, inventory and sales of an 800 bottle retail selection, as well as continuously updating and seasonally developing an 18-bottle pour list and a 120-bottle reserve list.

Brandon now brings his passion and knowledge of wine and the world of culinary experiences to Reserve.

“I am proud to be here at Reserve, amongst people who feel the same as I do about food and wine."

In March of this year, Brandon passed his first level sommelier exam through the Court of Masters. He hopes to be certified in the fall.

Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids at 201 Monroe Avenue NW, Reserve offers a world-class menu fully embracing the West Michigan farm-to-table philosophy, paired with over 100 wines available by the glass and 200 wines by the bottle, in an elegant yet casual fine dining setting.

www.ReserveGR.com
www.facebook.com/ReserveGR
www.twitter.com/ReserveGR

616-855-WINE

The River – Traverse City introduces TART-Boardman “Pedal & Paddle” Loop

2011-06-30T05:19:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways to get off the beaten path in the Traverse City area. The River, a kayak/tube livery and bike rental company operating along Grand Traverse Bay in Clinch Park, invites you to explore the trails this summer – whether that’s the biking trails or the waterway trails.

The TART-Boardman Pedal & Paddle Loop is a three-hour adventure, beginning and ending at Clinch Park. Of course, the tour could also begin at Logan’s Landing, with a paddle to Clinch Park where you can enjoy lunch, shopping, and beachcombing, before heading back to Logan’s on a rental bike.

Outfitted with a modern 15-speed McClain’s bicycle, you’ll head out on the former railroad bed-turned-TART trail, along the waterfront and through downtown Traverse City’s shopping district. The 2-mile wooded Boardman Lake Trail is paved on the north mile, while the south mile is crushed limestone – stretching along the quiet, tree-lined eastern shore of Boardman Lake.

Captain Boardman of Naperville, IL purchased land in the mid 1800s and built a saw mill at the mouth of the Boardman River, which flows through Boardman Lake to the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay. This was the beginning of what became Traverse City. In recognition of his contributions to the area’s history, the river and lake now proudly bear his name.

Within 20-30 minutes on the trail, you’ll arrive at the kayak livery at Logan’s Landing and the Medalie Park Bird Sanctuary, also recognized as an exceptional nature-viewing area. A variety of waterfowl are present on the lake during the warm-weather months. During periods of migration, there have been some unusual sightings of waterfowl, gulls and sometimes shorebirds.

For the Boardman backstretch, launch a sleek Jackson kayak and begin your paddle back to Clinch Park along the picturesque Boardman River system – including Boardman Lake, which is alive with swans, ducks, coots and loons, as well as native brown trout, bass, pike and even walleye. Those interested in wetting a line during their paddle should request a Jackson Coosa fishing kayak.

At any time during your trip, feel free to stop and shop at Cherry Republic, Kilwins, Backcountry Outfitters or the countless other hip retail stores throughout Traverse City’s vibrant downtown area. Enjoy a quick Randy Rice Burger, brat or hot dog from a “fourth generation Benzie County cattle farmer” at Clinch Park or savor a pint of award-wining beer at Right Brain Brewery, situated on the banks of the Boardman in TC’s warehouse district.

Your day on the trails awaits!

The River operates a kayak/tube livery and bike rental operation at Clinch Park (behind Con Foster Museum), along the Boardman River and Grand Traverse Bay, in downtown Traverse City.

In addition to its Traverse City operation, The River operates a kayak/canoe/tube livery and miniature golf course along the sparkling shores of the Crystal River at 5959 S. Oak Street in Glen Arbor, just a block off famed M22. To make reservations for any of these activities, call 231-883-7890. For more information, log onto http://theriverglenarbor.com.

http://therivertraversecity.com
http://www.facebook.com/therivertc

MEDIA INTERESTED IN SETTING UP A “PEDAL & PADDLE” EXCURSION SHOULD CONTACT DIANNA STAMPFLER: Dianna@PromoteMichigan.com

The Homestead Introduces Sounds of Sleeping Bear Outdoor Mountain-Top Concert Series

2011-06-29T07:55:00.000-07:00

Without question, the most scenic locale for an outdoor summer concert is the top of Bay Mountain at The Homestead – a resort in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The 2011 Sounds of Sleeping Bear Series features three nights of unique entertainment set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Bay and the Manitou Islands to the west and Glen Lake to the east. A special July 28 concert with the Blackthorn Celtic Quartet will also be held in conjunction with the Glen Arbor Art Association’s, Manitou Music festival.

Enjoy a chair lift (or golf cart) ride to the top of the mountain for these spectacular shows:

Friday, July 8 - String Cheese
String Cheese is the electrifying combination of fiddler, Diana Lodio, and cellist, Alison Lynn. With their feel-good melodies, and foot-stomping, rock-influenced rhythms, these girls have put a fresh, enticing spin on Celtic and Americana music. Though rooted in tradition, the two perform on state-of-the-art electric instruments, and offer listeners the unique opportunity to experience two of the world's best-known instruments and oldest genres through a young, progressive lens. The girls put on a fun, polished and family-friendly show that leaves audiences smiling almost as much as the two performers. String Cheese' captivating sounds and ability to connect to all audiences has made it one of Michigan's most promising instrumental acts. www.stringcheesemusic.com

Thursday, July 21 - Will Ready
R&B/Soul singer, Will Ready, has performed in North America, Europe, Japan and The Caribbean and has opened for Chaka Khan, The Temptations, The Whispers and Al Jarreau. He attributes his silky, seductive style to his love for "old school" R&B, Soul, Jazz and hit makers like Smokey Robinson, Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye, Al Green, Baby Face and Keith Sweat. Will describes his new music as "romantic music with a groove-its food for the soul." Will's live performances invariably turn into dance parties. His infectious energy, joy and deep groove laid down by his excellent band, RMG, make it all but impossible to stay in your seat. When Will Ready plays a club date, his audience quickly becomes part of the act. Ready lives in Atlanta, Georgia in the winter and Traverse City, Michigan in the summer. Ready's new music video, "Seduction" was filmed in the restored village sloop on beautiful Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City, Michigan. www.willready.com

Sunday, August 14 - Who Hit John?
Performing, jamming, and busking since 2006, Who Hit John? has tenaciously evolved from their beginnings as an old-time string band playing on the street corner for tips. Incorporating Gypsy Jazz, Swing and European flavors into an already eclectic collage of barnstorming old-time originals and traditionals, they blend old-world music with a vibrant breath of excellent and soul. Expect fanciful fiddle and trumpet melodies over a thick core of acoustic rhythm. www.whohitjohn.com

All shows are from 7-9pm, with the chair lift and golf cart rides starting at 6pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available for purchase. In the event of rain, the concerts will be held in Mountain Flowers Lodge.

THEN...

On Thursday, July 28, enjoy the sounds of the Blackthorn Celtic Quartet as part of the Manitou Music Festival on top of Bay Mountain. Based in Detroit, Blackthorn plays throughout the Great Lakes region since 1984. Blackthorn welcomes you to the rich tapestry of Celtic music. Each member of the band plays multiple instruments, which complement the lead vocals of Belfast native Richard McMullen, the band's tight blend of four-part harmony.

The Manitou Music Festival presents exciting and diverse concerts featuring national and regional performers of classical, jazz and fold music in idyllic outdoor and family-friendly locations. Founded in 1991 by members of the Glen Arbor Art Association, the Manitou Music Festival takes place in the pastoral splendor of Leelanau County.

Children are not free for this Glen Arbor Art Association benefit event. Tickets are $15 (Glen Arbor Art Association members receive $2 discount). For information on Manitou Music Festival and to reserve tickets, visit www.glenarborart.org.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100.

Right Brain Brewery Taps into "Cherry Pie Whole Beer" -- Made with 50 pies from Grand Traverse Pie Company -- on Friday, July 1 (6pm)

2011-06-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

Right Brain Brewery plans to debut their new right brained tap handles for a special tapping of the Cherry Pie Whole beer. The Cherry Pie Whole beer was recently brewed using fifty whole Cherry Crumb pies from the Grand Traverse Pie Company. The new tap handles will debut at the special tapping on Friday, July 1st at 6 p.m., just in time for the National Cherry Festival kick-off. New at this year’s National Cherry Festival beer tent, being served out of their new tap handles, will be Right Brain Brewery’s Will Power Pale Ale!

Right Brain Brewery (RBB) has been working on creating their new tap handles since the fall of 2010 after Russell Springsteen, owner and operator of RBB, was asked to speak at a U of M entrepreneurial conference. Other guest speakers representing Northern Michigan companies were, Mike and Denise Busley, co-founders of the Grand Traverse Pie Company, and Mike Steele, founder of the Tape Wrangler. During a lunch brainstorming conversation the idea of new tap handles and brewing a beer using whole pies from the Grand Traverse Pie Company (GTPC) sprouted.

It was this brainstorming conversation that led to the experimental brewing this past February of the original Pie Whole, which used seventy-five Carmel Apple pies from the Grand Traverse Pie Company. When asked, why another pie beer, Springsteen stated, “Why not? It makes sense and it was really fun the first time. Plus, Grand Traverse Pie Company has such a fantastic variety of flavors!” RBB chose to experiment with the Cherry Crumb pie for obvious regional and seasonal reasons; it’s the season for cherries, the influx of visitor to our region, and of course, the National Cherry Festival.

On Thursday, June 16th, Corey Wentworth, head brewer at RBB, brewed the Cherry Pie Whole using fifty whole GTPC Cherry Crumb pies. The Cherry Pie Whole will be a lighter ale than the original Pie Whole and has a lighter malt profile to highlight the natural cherry flavors.

When asked what’s next, Wentworth replied, “The Cherry Pie Whole is another right brained adventure in the world of pie beer; next stop Ding Dongs, Ho Hos, I don’t know what’s next, but watch out Little Debbie Zebra Cakes!”
The Cherry Pie Whole beer will be released at a special tapping on Friday, July 1st at 6 p.m. at Right Brain Brewery (221 Garland St., Traverse City). It will be served as a premium beer in a 12 oz. glass for $6.50. Along with the special tapping RBB will be debuting their new tap handles.

RBB’s new tap handles have been a nine-month design process. Springsteen first started to investigate options with Mike Steele, founder of the Tape Wrangler, a local Traverse City company, in hopes that RBB could keep this project within the local economy. They soon discovered that the tap handle design was extremely unique and unfortunately with the company’s lack of tap handle production, experience, and technique Springsteen would need to use a company that specializes in tap handle production. Taphandles Incorporated, a tap handle company based in Seattle, Washington, decided to take on the challenging and unique design. Nielson Design Group, based in Traverse City, designed the overall look and feel of the new tap handle.

The new tap handles are clear acrylic with many random objects, including but not limited to RBB sayings, safety pins, glitter, random beads, seashells, space shuttles, and more randomness floating in the handle. The new handles are adorned with a cube on the top that contains Right Brain’s branding. This is the first tap handle of this design and took approximately three months to design and six months to get the prototype correct.

“Overall it has been a fun experience. One of the most challenging aspects of this design project was finding the objects that appear to be floating in the tap handle. These objects needed to be certain sizes, couldn’t melt when put into the hot acrylic, and also needed to be whimsical, playful, and random.” stated Springsteen.

RBB will retire the original tap handles and officially change them to the new design during the special tapping of the Cherry Pie Whole beer on Friday, July 1st at 6 p.m.

Expect to see additional RBB tap handles in the seven counties that Right Brain currently distributes to, as RBB expands their distribution through Wicksall Distributors based in Traverse City. Springsteen plans to sell the limited edition original Right Brain taps for $75 each. Interested parties should contact Right Brain directly. There are less than fifty original taps available.

Right Brain Brewery, featuring rotating artwork and beer menu, is committed to brewing its handcrafted microbrews with the best available local ingredients. Right Brain Brewery is located in Traverse City’s Warehouse District and is open seven days a week. Right Brain Brewery is also proud to support our community by being involved in countless community events.

Grateful recipient of the 2010 and 2011 Local Hero Award received from Grand Traverse Edible.

Traverse – Northern Michigan’s Magazine Red Hot Best winner for Bar To Inspire Conversation.

www.RightBrainBrewery.com

Governor Snyder & Michigan Legislators Recognize August as “Michigan Camping & RV Month”

2011-06-21T06:21:00.000-07:00

For generations, Michigan has welcomed campers to its woodlands, freshwater shoreline and along its inland lakes and streams, in two distinct peninsulas – nestled in the middle of the Great Lakes Region.

In honor of such tradition Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, along with Representative Frank Foster (R – Pellston) and Senator Goeff Hansen (R – Hart) will declare August as “Michigan Camping & Recreation Vehicle Month”. Resolutions will be introduced on Wednesday, June 22 (10:30am in the Senate; 1:30pm in the House with a news conference at Noon in rooms 402-403 of the Michigan State Capitol Building.

Michiganians and visitors alike take advantage of our great state’s array of sun, freshwater coastline, 19 million acres of woodlands, soft breezes and fresh air, where the temperate climate allows for great camping and outdoor recreations – making it the ultimate Pure Michigan experience!

The official resolution supports the economic and recreational contributions that the camping industry contributes to Michigan’s overall tourism package:

• Camping is a key contributor in the state’s overall $17+ billion Pure Michigan tourism industry.
• The State of Michigan has more than 950 licensed private recreation vehicle parks and campgrounds, with more than 111,000 licensed camp sites.
• More than 160 county or government operated campgrounds with over 14,700 sites – from rustic to full-service – around the state.
• The State of Michigan is home to 98 state parks and recreation areas – as well as 133 state forest campgrounds – under the auspices of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and 7 forests / parks / lakeshores in Michigan under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service, collectively offering 15,000 sites on state and federal lands designated for camping.
• Michigan has over 300,000 licensed recreational vehicles, including motorhomes and travel trailers. In 2010, Michigan ranked third in new recreation vehicle sales behind Texas and California.
• Camping encourages visitors and locals alike to partake in activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, paddling, pedaling, golfing, geocaching, nature watching, photography, and other outdoor activities, which also highlight Michigan’s great outdoors.

Governor Snyder has been an outspoken advocate for the Pure Michigan campaign since before he was elected, making it a major point of discussion on his campaign trail. Representative Foster is the chair of the Natural Resources, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation Committee. Senator Hansen chairs the Outdoor Recreation & Tourism Committee.

Michigan boasts two non-profit organizations: ARVC Michigan – the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds of Michigan and MARVAC – the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles & Campgrounds, which equally promote and support private campground and RV parks throughout the state particularly by the distribution of hundreds of thousands of free camping directories at RV and outdoor shows, at statewide chambers of commerce, libraries, lawmakers offices, RV sales businesses, campgrounds and the State of Michigan Travel Information Centers.

All state lands are managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, while the national parks and lakeshores are managed by the National Park Service and/or the U.S. Forest Service. All campgrounds – including the companion recreational activities – are among the tourism destinations promoted via Travel Michigan and its award-winning Pure Michigan campaign.

www.MichiganCampingAndRVMonth.com
www.MichCampgrounds.com
www.MARVAC.org
www.Michigan.org
www.Michigan.gov/DNR

Movie Tidbits, Trivia & Events Along Michigan’s Lakeshore

2011-06-09T07:13:00.000-07:00

With all the buzz about the upcoming Waterfront Film Festival and Michigan’s growing film industry, we thought we’d share some big screen tidbits, trivia and even some local movie event details with you from the Holland & Saugatuck Area Attractions Group.

Crane’s Pie Pantry
On Saturday, June 11, Crane’s Pie Pantry – located in Fennville (Goose City, USA) will be showing the 1996 “Fly Away Home” with Michigan’s own Jeff Daniels and Anna Paquin in what they’re calling Fennville’s own “One Night Film Festival.” This free family movie will be shown in the field own by the corn maze, behind the restaurant. The restaurant will be open until 8pm, so plan on a late dinner before the show begins. Bring your lawn chair or a blanket and snacks (although concessions will be sold as well) and settle in for an evening of family fun. Admission begins at 8pm with the movie starting around 8:30/9:00pm (weather permitting). www.cranespiepantry.com |269-561-2297

Fenn ValleyGet your SIDEWAYS on right here at Fenn Valley Vineyards in Fennville. Winemaker cellar tours are offered at 3pm every Saturday (excluding 6/25) – providing a chance for you to taste from the barrels and tanks as you learn what makes Fenn Valley wines unique. Cost is $8 per person and includes a logo wine glass and $5 coupon. Reservations encouraged. Also, save the date for the Fenn Valley Wine Fest, June 25 (1-5pm), with great wines, tasty ethnic foods, a barrel aging demonstration and music by Natches Trace. Cost is $8 for adults. No reservations required. www.fennvalley.com | 269-561-2396

Dutch Village
Did you know that Nelis’ Dutch Village operates The Bioscoop (a movie theater)? This should be your first stop in the village, where you can enjoy a “Souvenir of Holland” and get a general overview of the Netherlands. Other documentaries are shown throughout the day; the schedule is listed in the daily visitor’s guide.

Dutch Village has been the setting for a Dutch documentary for the VPRO TV network in the Netherlands and has also hosted the filming of three movies and documentaries in the past two years: “What’s Wrong with Virginia” in 2009 and “Return to the Hiding Place” in 2010 (which was also filmed at Windmill Island). Set in 1941, this poignant and riveting World War II film centers around Corrie Ten Boom’s teenage army who fight to save the lives of the innocent during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. It is due out yet this year.

Also of note, wooden shoes – made at Dutch Village – have even been featured in the movie, Elizabethtown and in the series Sex and the City (season 6). www.dutchvillage.com | 616-396-1475

New Holland Brewing
The summer seasonal Golden Cap Saison pays homage to the “flying monkeys” from the Wizard of Oz – written by L. Frank Baum who vacationed in nearby Castle Park! A modern interpretation of a traditional farmhouse ale, Golden Cap is a soft, pale beer that embodies the flavors and aromas of summer fields. New Holland’s Mad Hatter proudly displays an original illustration of the popular character from Alice in Wonderland.

Celebrate Mad Hatter’s Birthday – on Saturday, June 11 (5pm-1am) with a full day of activities and several variations on the “Hatter” theme including seven different Hatter beers and even a couple of spirits. Festivities include a Beer and Cheese Smackdown followed by a Mixology Class. The Bike n' Bar will be available for rides. Guests can also enjoy a Photobooth, complimentary Tea Party snacks, raffle prizes throughout the evening and a Mad Hatter birthday cake you will have to see to believe!!! The cake will be on display through the evening with a carving and toast at 10:06pm. Throughout the night, DJ Snax will be providing the music. There is no cover for this event; no minors allowed after 11pm. www.newhollandbrew.com | 616-335-6422

Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises
Embrace your inner Tom Sawyer with a leisurely float on the Kalamazoo River aboard an authentic sternwheel paddleboat. Bring your binoculars and camera to observe the birds, water fowl and other animals in their natural environment. The shoreline is peppered with color as the spring wildflowers make their appearance for the season. On Friday, June 24, make reservations for the extended cruise from 7-10pm with live music, a picnic lunch and cash bar. Seating is limited and reservations are required. www.saugatuckboatcruises.com | 269-857-4261

Saugatuck Dune Rides
As you head out for your exploration along the Lake Michigan shoreline with Saugatuck Dune Rides (celebrating its 30th anniversary this summer), be sure to check out the former Pine Crest Cabins Motor Court, sitting adjacent to the ticket office on Blue Star Highway. This run-down motor lodge – with its open garage stalls that housed guests’ Model Ts – was used as a set in the 1920s-era movie Road to Perdition. Starring Tom Hanks and Paul Newman, this 2001 movie featured a couple local scenes – including a cottage that was constructed (and later torn down) along the beach. www.saugatuckduneride.com | 269-857-2253

Windmill Island
The picturesque setting of Windmill Island & Gardens has been the backdrop for a couple films in recent years.

Holland-born and -raised Hopwood DePree (co-founder of Saugatuck’s Waterfront Film Festival, founder and CEO of TicTock Studios and appointee to the Michigan Film Office Advisory Council) wrote, directed and produced “The Last Big Attraction” which was filmed here in 1999. The film even received one nomination at the Hamptons international Film Festival and won three awards at the Newport International Film Festival. In the movie, Hopwood played Leed VanderWal – a young man poised to assume a key role in his family’s dynasty by inheriting the internationally-recognized tourist attraction – Windmill Island.

Most recently, in 2010, Windmill Island was a primary filming location for the movie, Return of the Hiding Place (which also filmed at Dutch Village). In several scenes in the movie, the authentic 250-year-old DeZwaan Windmill can be seen standing guard over the tulip farms that stretch out along the grassy lawn. The trailer for the movie can be seen online at www.hide-movie.com; the film is due out in 2011. www.cityofholland.com/windmillislandgardens | 616-355-1030

Holland & Saugatuck Lakeshore Attractions Group
www.HollandAttractions.com
www.facebook.com/HollandSaugatuckLakeshoreAttractions

Trattoria Stella Hosts 7th Anniversary Stellar Picnic

2011-06-02T06:52:00.000-07:00

In celebration of its 7th Anniversary, Trattoria Stella restaurant is hosting a “Stellar Picnic” on Sunday, June 19 (Father’s Day) from Noon to 4pm on the Great Lawn of Building 50 in the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

Bring the entire family for a day full of locally grown and raised foods from area farms, music and children’s activities. The event is held rain or shine and guests are invited to BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket) as tables and chairs will not be available.

Admission is free with lunch priced at $10 for adults and $2 for children; profits benefit the Michigan Land Use Institute. Advance tickets are available now at Trattoria Stella.

Trattoria Stella opened in 2004 and is the anchor business in the quarter-mile-long Building 50 at the former Northern Michigan Asylum. Stella offers a daily changing menu featuring responsibly-sourced ingredients from local farms, including heritage breeds of pig, lamb and steer; year-round fresh produce; plus house-made pasta, bread and fresh cheeses; as well as a wine list of over 200 carefully curated selections. Stella is owned and operated by Paul and Amanda Danielson, along with the award-winning Chef Myles Anton.

Trattoria Stella
1200 West Eleventh Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
231-929-8989
www.StellaTC.com

Saugatuck Brewing Expands Distribution into Southeast Michigan

2011-06-01T08:06:00.001-07:00

Saugatuck Brewing Company has announced a major distribution expansion into the Detroit Metro, Tri Cities, and mid-Michigan markets. Effective May 1, “SBC” has partnered with Powers Distributing, O & W Distributing, Eastown Distributors and John P. O’Sullivan Distributing.

Oval Beach Blonde, ESB Amber, Pier Cove Porter, and Singapore IPA are now available in select retail outlets, bars, restaurants, and pubs in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, Bay, Midland, Saginaw, Lapeer and Genesee counties.

SBC launched 6-pack and keg distribution of their four major brands in May 2010, covering the western and central Michigan markets with I.H.S. Distributing, Kent Beverage, and Nate Wines. This expansion now brings the total to 34 Michigan counties now carrying SBC beer.

Saugatuck Brewing Co. is a microbrewery with a traditional Irish style pub and German style bier hall that features hand crafted beer, wine, food, and service. Fifteen unique beer styles, all brewed in house, plus wine and hard cider are served daily in the Pub. “SBC” also distributes four styles in 6-packs throughout Michigan. The multi-purpose Bier Hall is a full-service banquet facility complete with bar, stage and multiple lighting options. Accommodating well over 200 seated guests, this venue is available for weddings, receptions, reunions, corporate events and concerts. The brewery also features the only active brew-on-premise facility in Michigan, utilizing five copper kettles and an array of natural ingredients and recipes, for the public to become “Brewmaster for a Day.”

Saugatuck Brewing Co. is a proud member of the Michigan Brewers Guild.

Saugatuck Brewing Company
2948 Blue Star Hwy. – Douglas, MI 49406
(269) 857-7222
www.saugatuckbrewing.com
www.facebook.com/saugatuckbrewingcompany

Spring Arrives Along Lake Michigan Shoreline

2011-05-10T04:23:00.000-07:00

In West Michigan, the truest sign of spring is the blossoming of tulips in Holland – just in time for the annual Tulip Time Festival, May 7-14. In addition to the 4.4 million tulips, the area is home to acres of fragrant apple, cherry and peach orchards. Vineyards stretch out along the rolling hillsides and colorful wildflowers dot sugar-sand beaches along the Lake Michigan coastline. You can even find the flavors of spring – and summer – in the form of locally crafted wine and beer. You are invited to celebrate the arrival of spring and all its natural wonders at these seven shoreline attractions:

Crane’s Pie Pantry
Blossoms are blooming throughout the orchards at Crane’s Pie Pantry (6054 124th Avenue (M89), Fennville). Stop out this month and pick up a map which identifies the trees, and walk the orchards which are full of fragrance this time of year. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of your visit (then consider entering the photos in the “Picture Yourself in Allegan County Photo Contest”). The walking tour is free but you must check in first at the Pie Pantry. Sorry, no pets. www.cranespiepantry.com |269-561-2297

Fenn Valley
Join Chef Christine Ferris for a Girls Afternoon out, May 14, as she demonstrates “Cutting the Cheese.” Everything you need to know about selecting, storing and cooking with cheese will be covered. Following the demonstration, participants will enjoy a brunch paired with assorted wines – including the new 2010 releases. Cost is $30 per person. Reservations are required. Winemaker cellar tours are offered at 3pm every Saturday (excluding 6/25) – providing a chance for you to taste from the barrels and tanks as you learn what makes Fenn Valley wines unique. Cost is $8 per person and includes a logo wine glass and $5 coupon. Reservations encouraged. Also, save the date for the Fenn Valley Wine Fest, June 25 (1-5pm), with great wines, tasty ethnic foods, a barrel aging demonstration and music by Natches Trace. Cost is $8 for adults. No reservations required. www.fennvalley.com | 269-561-2396

Dutch Village
Spring rings back a new bunch of animals at Nelis’ Dutch Village. The petting area has featured goats, rabbits, baby chicks and a llama named “Mr. T.” for the past few years, but 2011 brings mini animals to Dutch Village! “Taking a Goat for a Walk” has been one o the most popular attractions for the past two years, and should be again this year. This year’s new animal assortment includes mini pigs (under 12 inches tall), a mini cow, a mini mama horse and her baby and eight mini goats. All the miniature animals are brought in from a special hobby farm in Illinois called the Ahrens Hobby Farm. www.dutchvillage.com | 616-396-1475

New Holland Brewing
Tis the Saison! Or “season” as it translates, tne Holland Brewing Co.’s spring/summer brew, Golden Cap Saison, is currently available at the pub and on retailer shelves throughout the state. A modern interpretation of a traditional farmhouse ale, Golden cap is a soft, pale beer that embodies the flavors and aromas of summer fields. This brew was just awarded a Silver medal at the World Expo of Beer competition in Frankenmuth. In time for Cinco de may, it’s the el Mole Ocho: Mole’ inspired Ale – the spiciest addition to New Holland’s High Gravity family. This beer encompasses the brewer’s exploration into the flavors of mole – the legendary sauce of Central Mexico. El Mole Ocho features malty aroma and a rich, cocoa-laden body, laced with an invigorating tinge of dried chilies and coffee. It’s available in 22-ounce bottles or on tap at the pub. Of course, Tulip Time Festival wouldn’t be complete without New Holland’s Red Tulip Ale and Black Tulip Ale. Red Tulip Ale is brewed in homage to the festival, evoking spring’s renewing spirit. It’s available exclusively at the pub this year. While at the pub, be sure to ask your server or bartender about the selection of Library Beers, including vintage 2005 and 2006 Black Tulip. www.newhollandbrew.com | 616-335-6422

Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises
Explore the Kalamazoo River aboard an authentic sternwheel paddleboat, and view the arrival of spring along the riverbank. Bring your binoculars and camera to observe the birds, water fowl and other animals in their natural environment. The shoreline is peppered with color as the spring wildflowers make their appearance for the season. Trips will be offered at 1pm and 3pm on May 18 and 19. Then, coming up Thursday, May 26 take part in the “Marga-Relay-Ville” Relay for Life fundraiser from 7-9pm. Cost is $30 per person or 2 for $50. The evening will include games, snacks and a cash bar. Then, on Friday, June 24, make reservations for the extended cruise from 7-10pm with live music, a picnic lunch and cash bar. Seating is limited and reservations are required. www.saugatuckboatcruises.com | 269-857-4261

Saugatuck Dune Rides
Explore the Lake Michigan shore sand dunes like never before, with Saugatuck Dune Rides – in celebration of their 30th anniversary! Feel the wind in your hair as you travel out near the site of the former town of Singapore – dubbed Michigan’s Pompeii, as it is buried under the sands. Along the foredunes (the first ridge behind the beach) you’ll see beautiful clusters of yellow harry puccoon, the common milkweed, beach pea, sand cress, smooth rose, bearberry, wild grape, sand cherry and Pitcher’s Thistle (a Federally-threatened wildflower) growing proudly. Migratory birds, such as the Prairie Warbler (Michigan endangered), Eastern Kingbird, Brown Thrasher, Field Sparrow and the Northern Harrier (a migratory raptor listed on the Michigan special concern list), are often seen. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the dunes and all its natural residents! www.saugatuckduneride.com | 269-857-2253

Windmill Island
The focal point of this beautiful oasis on the edge of downtown is the 249 year old working Dutch windmill "De Zwaan" (meaning graceful bird). The windmill, which reaches 125 feet from the ground to the top of the blades, towers over 36 acres of manicured gardens, dikes, canals and picnic areas. Spring has exploded on Windmill Island, as more than 150,000 tulips have come into bloom. In the summer, annual plants and flowers decorate the grounds in a sea of color. A visit this premier destination includes old-time Klompen dance performed by girls dressed in folk costumes and wooden shoes; an antique Dutch carousel, featuring hand-carved and painted wooden horses; and the miniature Netherlands Village made by the early settlers. While you’re here, listen to the antique Amsterdam street organ and learn how it works, sample world-famous fudge made with real Dutch cocoa and stop by the souvenir shop for some mementos of your visit, including stone-ground flour from the windmill. www.cityofholland.com/windmillislandgardens | 616-355-1030

Holland & Saugatuck Lakeshore Attractions Group
www.HollandAttractions.com
www.facebook.com/HollandSaugatuckLakeshoreAttractions

Discover Spring Camping in Michigan

2011-05-05T07:13:00.000-07:00

Although camping is a year-round activity in Michigan, spring signals the onset of the warm-weather camping season in Michigan. By early May, a large number of the privately owned campgrounds in Michigan are welcoming guests looking to shake off the winter blues and enjoy the great outdoors. The Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds – Michigan offers up 10 great reasons to head out to your favorite Michigan campground this spring:

1. Wildflowers. April showers bring May flowers, like the trillium that blanket the forest floor. Spring also brings the blossoms on the apple and cherry trees, making this one of the most fragrant times of the year to get out and travel the Great Lakes State.

2. Woodland Edibles. Morel mushrooms, wild ramps, leeks and fiddleheads are all delicacies that can be found by foraging through the woodlands of Michigan. After a successful “hunt” you can savor these mouth-watering finds, paired with a fine Michigan beer or wine.

3. Fishing. Whether you enjoy fly fishing on the rivers and streams, heading out on a charter on the big lake or casting a line for pan fish in an inland lake, you’re sure to catch something while spring fishing in Michigan. From walleye, trout, steelhead and salmon to perch, bass and bluegills, this is a fisherman’s paradise.

4. Wine Tasting. While the more than 80 wineries throughout the state of Michigan are open year round, spring is the ideal time to visit as this is when the new releases are available for tasting. Be sure to purchase a bottle or two, to pair with those woodland edibles and fresh catches! For more in Michigan wines: www.MichiganWines.com

5. Bird Watching. Nature centers, sanctuaries and wildlife viewing areas are thriving with opportunities for spring bird watching. For more about birding, visit the Michigan Audubon Society website: www.michiganaudubon.org

6. Paddling. With thousands of miles of rivers and streams, not to mention the inland and Great Lakes, spring is the perfect time to get out in your canoe or kayak and head out on the water for some peace and quiet. For more information, check out the website for the Michigan Association of Paddlesport Providers: www.michigancanoe.com

7. Peddling. Michigan is home to some of the most scenic biking trails, ranging in distance and level of difficulty. Whether you’re taking a short family trip along a paved trail or are heading out for an off-road mountain bike adventure, you’ll find plenty of opportunities around the state – including special events geared toward cyclists. For more information on biking trails and events around the state, check out the website for the League of Michigan Bicyclists at www.lmb.org

8. Hiking. From nature centers to city, county and state parks, you’ll find countless trails waiting to be explored. In Michigan, you can hike more than 200 miles on the Shore-to-Shore Trail that connects Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. Or, take a day hike on any breathtaking section of the North Country National Scenic Trail which operates is national offices from Lowell, Michigan. www.northcountrytrail.org

9. Golfing. Michigan is home to more than 800 golf courses and during the spring season, the rates are often lower, there are fewer people (and bugs) and the temperatures are pleasant. For a detailed list of courses throughout the state, visit the Golf Association of Michigan online at www.gam.org

10. Driving. Michigan Highways offer a state-wide listing of Heritage Routes – in three specific categories: Scenic, Recreational and Historic routes online at www.MichiganHighways.org.

No matter which spring activity accompanies your camping trip, be sure to travel with camera in hand to capture the awakening of all around you. To learn more about how to enjoy Michigan’s “Springtime Splendor” and cure your cabin fever, visit www.SpringtimeSplendor.com.

The Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds – Michigan represents nearly 200 member campgrounds with more than 30,000 sites available throughout the state. The new Michigan Campground Directory, published by ARVC-Michigan, is now available at various locations statewide, including all state Welcome Centers. The directory not only lists campgrounds by region, but also includes helpful information on the type of sites available, various amenities such as restroom, laundry and dumping station facilities; recreational offerings such as pools and golf courses; and seasons of operation.

For an online directory of ARVC member campgrounds, log onto www.michcampgrounds.com.

The River Eco Tours Offers Hiking, Biking & Fishing Excursions Through Glen Arbor, Sleeping Bear Dunes and Leelanau Peninsula

2011-05-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

The village of Glen Arbor in Northern Michigan’s Leelanau County is 36 square miles of land and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore owns 30 of those miles. Ironically, 90% of the visitors to the National Park never venture off more than 50 feet from a sidewalk or pavement. The experienced guides with River Eco Tour Company are dedicated to getting people of all ages out into the park – by boat, bike or on foot – to experience the abundant natural surroundings the area is known for.

EXCURSIONS

Tucker Lake fishing trips. All you need to do is show up. We provide the boats, the fishing rods and tackle, the ice and soft drinks, the insect repellent and an experienced guide to help you find, catch and release the fish.

First on the River trips. Leaving daily from the dam, this 7 mile trip at 7 a.m. promises peace and quiet and most likely several significant wildlife sightings. Bald Eagles, Otters, Herons, several species of ducks and geese, deer, possibly a bear or even the elusive cougar may be witnessed on any given morning. Our guide will also fill you in on the local flora and fauna, ecological facts, and even a narrative history of Glen Arbor for the last couple hundred years. Dress Warm.

Biking Tours into the Park and around the Lakes. Our guides have several different trips for the beginner, the advanced and everyone in between. Leelanau County is biker friendly and our guides are experienced with getting you to the most beautiful spots safely. From one to six hour trips available. For up to date schedules, just call us or stop in at the shop.

Hiking Tours – Sleeping Bear Point Trail with its spectacular views of the dunes, Manitou Islands, Sleeping Bear Bay, Alligator Hill and Glen Lake, the Sleeping Bear Point Trail hike is the favorite of many visitors to the National Lakeshore. If you only have time for one memorable hike to give you the full essence of the magnificence of Sleeping Bear, this is the one. The looping trail, just under three miles long and rising over 200 feet above the lakeshore, takes 1 to 3 hours to complete depending on the pace, stops, dip/wading in the lake, etc.

The trail covers a diverse mix of dune complex ecology, including: Lake Michigan’s shoreline, beach, foredunes, dune blow-outs, Ghost Forest, and backdunes/stabilized forest. The geography, geology, flora, fauna and history of Sleeping Bear Point will be discussed during the hike. You will see the rare threatened Pitcher’s thistle plant; possibly, the endangered piping plover, which nests along the lakeshore; and if you’re lucky, a bald eagle soaring over head. Although more than half of the hike is in loose sand, and is strenuous at times, our route goes through the forest first, on a hard dirt-packed path, which is the easiest route to get to the highest point of the hike. Anyone in good health will find this guided tour a fun, educational and memorable experience—while getting some great exercise in the process.

This tour is not recommended for small children unless they’re really into hiking, or unless you want to carry them part of the way.

GUIDES

Mike Sutherland has extensive experience on the waters and in the woods of Leelanau County. He has traveled over 50 Countries and is thrilled to offer his guide services right here in his home town of Glen Arbor. Mike has logged many days on the Crystal River and numerous inland lakes like Tucker, Fisher, The Glens, Narada, Shell, Bass, and School. He has plenty of big water experience and received his 50 ton Captains License in the mid nineties. He has chartered in the Bahamas, (6 winters on Guana Cay and 7 on Spanish Wells) Florida, (Eco Tour Guide at the Cheeca Lodge in Islamorada) Nantucket, (including a transatlantic on a 48 foot yawl) and of course many trips on Lake Michigan fishing salmon and Lake Trout, diving the numerous shipwrecks in the Manitou Passage and Sleeping Bear Bay and has run many island trips to the Manitous. He now prefers the calmer water systems “inside the shoreline”, and is excited to offer his guide services and fishing experience on Leelanau County’s inland lakes and the Crystal River. Mike also specializes in skin diving, snorkeling on our inland lakes, even the river, and on calmer days would love to show you a couple of wrecks including the “Rising Sun” just off Pyramid Point. Nothing more than a mask and snorkel is required for this incredible experience.

Mike is excited to offer these trips to you and your family:

• Evening fishing trips on any of our inland lakes, but preferably Tucker right here in Glen Arbor.
• Morning or evening floats down the Crystal River.
• Snorkeling from a kayak or tube on many of our inland lakes or the Crystal River.
• Snorkeling from a kayak or tube on Sleeping Bear Bay. The wrecks of the Phelps and Rising Sun are in less than 10 feet of water. Also fun to snorkel through the piers at Glen Haven or the old Port Oneida Dock.

John Tris has been hiking the dunes of Lake Michigan’s southern and eastern shores for over 40 years. He first got hooked on a visit to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore while a college student at the University of Illinois, Chicago. Ecology, Conservation and Field Geography classes increased his interest, understanding and appreciation of the natural environment. He received a bachelor’s degree in Geography and Secondary Education from UIC. Fate brought John and his family to Leelanau County on a vacation, and like most everyone else who vacations here, it was love at first sight. Over the past 20 years, he has become very knowledgeable of the hiking trails in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and of the geography, geology, flora, fauna and cultural history of the region. He recently developed a guided tour of the Sleeping Bear Point trail, a favorite of dune hikers. John has also hiked many of the public trails managed by the Leelanau and Grand Traverse conservancies, and is always happy to share his knowledge.

Georg Schluender began his career at 17 years old assisting as a water ski instructor in Northern Michigan. Now over 20 years later, he has guided and / or instructed more than 35 silent sport’s coast-to-coast, border-to-border. Migrating with the birds and telling the time through the tides, moons and seasons, his greatest passion is watching those that rarely experience Mother Nature’s wonders stand awestruck in her presence. Georg understands nature, and loves to show people how to do the same. His focus on eco-tourism began in the San Juan’s and British Columbia Gulf Islands of the Pacific Northwest in 1991.

His tour guide experience for Sea Quest Expeditions and Zoetic (Endowed with Life) brought him face to face with hundreds of Orca in thousands of feet of ice cold black water with no land in sight…..in single man kayaks. He has conquered many a mountain, river and lake with his mountain bike, kayak and snowboard in the back country of the North Cascades. After several years in the Barrier Islands of the Nation’s Southeast guiding birding and kayaking tour’s, he has made it back to cultivate his roots in Northern Michigan. Georg’s passion is examining the natural history of the North Woods and he is available for many silent sport guided trips on foot, bike or kayak. Georg is an expert in geo-caching and is equipped with various GPS instruments and maps to help get him and his guests to natural wonders rarely seen by man.

Georg’s marketing company, Michigan Outdoor Silent Sport Tour’s – “Get the MOSST outta life!” has been featured around the world and allows him to affiliate with other career lifestyle businesses that share in the same eco-tourism philosophies. From winter rafting, snow shoe, and cross country tours to developing corporate retreats, his guiding experience is only matched by his knowledge of Northern Lower and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Mark Ringlever’s mantra as of late is: “Get in the water and let the current do the rest”. Mark has been bitten by the ﬂyﬁshing bug and is passionately consumed by a monosyllabic image of tight sexy loops and big ﬁsh.
Mark has wet his line in many foreign and remote places of the globe including various Caribbean Islands and the Bahamas out islands, The Southern Philippines Islands, Nova Scotia-Cape Breton Island, Newfoundland and Central America.

Mark has college degrees in environmental science, geography and business from Michigan Tech and Acquanis and took his first job with the U.S. Forestry Service. Other jobs with Outward Bound and the Bureau of Land Management have given him the inspiration to guide in “some of the best water in the world” here in Northern Michigan. Mark has logged thousands of miles paddling and ﬁshing Quetico Provincial Park and Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Wilderness. He built his own cottage near Empire and typically spends his winters out of country searching out the elusive fishing experience.

Mark is available for many fishing trips and is armed with a Hyde drift boat and extra rods and tackle. Stop into the shop and help us design a trip that works for you…..from bluegill fishing on Tucker Lake to trout fishing on the AuSable: The sky’s the limit.

Noah Creamer has been photographing the great outdoors for over 20 years. He is a graduate of Grand Valley State University and is a published professional photographer for various local and national publications. Noah is a 2008 Northern Michigan Environmental Action Council (NMEAC) nominee in Environmental Journalism & Communication. Noah is extremely active in photography and environmental policy and was a speaker at the 2008 Grand Traverse BIONEERS conference. “Nature is the planets greatest evolving art. No two pictures are ever the same because our environment is in a constant state of change.” Take a photography tour with Noah and you will learn the techniques needed to capture these moments in their purist essence. Noah also loves to show kids the magic of photography.

An excursion with The River Eco Tours means everything you need is provided…all you have to do is show up. The company is fully licensed with the Department of Interior and fully insured.

In addition to its eco tours, The River operates a kayak/canoe/tube livery and miniature golf course along the sparkling shores of the Crystal River at 5959 S. Oak Street in Glen Arbor, just a block off famed M22.

To make reservations for any of these activities, call 231-883-7890. For more information, log onto http://theriverglenarbor.com.

The River also operates a kayak/tube livery and bike rental operation at Clinch Park (behind Con Foster Museum), along the Boardman River and Grand Traverse Bay, in downtown Traverse City. http://therivertraversecity.com/ | http://www.facebook.com/therivertc.

The Homestead Announces Salon Naming Contest

2011-05-04T05:18:00.000-07:00

After years of robust growth in its award-winning wedding business, The Homestead will open its first full-service salon this season in The Village, serving men, women and children, but with a special focus on the needs of brides and bridal parties. In keeping with the resort’s tradition of involving its seasonal and local neighbors in new developments, The Homestead is inviting the community to help in naming the new facility.

The salon will offer cuts, color, and nail services, and will specialize in styling services for the many wedding parties and their guests that visit the resort each summer. In addition to refined and traditional wedding hairstyles like the French twist, The Homestead’s team is also working on an array of more casual, modern options to accommodate brides who prefer a rustic or bohemian look, including several styles that will feature an array of seasonal wildflowers from the top of Bay Mountain woven into the hair. Custom floral styles will also be available to complement the bride’s bouquet.

The Homestead is accepting entries for the salon naming contest from now through June 21, 2011, with semi-finalists being selected from each of three different entry periods of two weeks each. Entrants may submit as many ideas as they like by entering online at www.thehomesteadresort.com/name-the-salon-contest or in person at The Homestead.

The winners will be selected in three rounds of judging by a panel from The Homestead, with each round of judging followed by open voting by the public to select semi-finalists. Voting will close on June 28, 2011, and winners will be announced on July 3, 2011, at a reception hosted by The Homestead for all of the semi-finalists in the last round.

Seven different prize packages will be awarded to over one hundred winners, with an approximate retail value of over $15,069 in total prizes being awarded. The Grand Prize winner will receive a deluxe package for eight people, including lunch for the entire group at Cavanaugh’s Deli, dinner at Nonna’s, eight one-month memberships to New Leaf Health & Fitness Center, and a day of beauty at the new salon including three treatments for each guest.

For a complete description of prizes, entry requirements, and relevant dates, please refer to the official contest rules at www.thehomesteadresort.com/name-the-salon-contest/rules.

For more information on weddings and salon services at The Homestead, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5000.

Valentine Vodka Celebrates Grand Opening of Ferndale Distillery & Martini Bar

2011-05-04T05:11:00.000-07:00

The long-anticipated Grand Opening of Valentine Vodka, 161 Vester Street in Ferndale, has arrived. On Friday, May 20, the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce will host a public ceremony and ribbon cutting at 4:30pm for the Valentine Vodka Martini Bar and Metro Detroit’s only micro-distillery. Afterward, guests are invited to imbibe on a selection of specialty cocktails and infusions throughout the evening.

Valentine Distilling Co., is located in a 5000-square-foot building which once housed the Wolverine Pool Table Company – just a stone’s throw from Woodward Avenue. In mid 2010, work began on the space resulting in a 1000-square-foot martini bar which looks into the 4000-square-foot distillery. Many of the building materials used in the renovations were reclaimed from abandoned or demolished buildings in Detroit.

As Detroit’s first micro distilled spirit since Prohibition, the award-winning Valentine Vodka is well on its way to setting the standard for ultra-premium hand-crafted vodka with its clean, crisp and uniquely flavorful taste. As one of the first distilleries in the world to use a triple-grain recipe, Valentine Vodka proudly utilizes a blend of Red Michigan wheat, malted barley and corn, which all come directly from Michigan farmers and suppliers.

Last year, Valentine Vodka was awarded a Gold medal ranking during the Beverage Tasting Institute (BTI) 2010 International Review of Spirits Competition – the largest and most prestigious annual spirits competition in the United States. The BTI gave Valentine Vodka a rating of 90 in the “Unflavored Vodka” category.

Rifino Valentine – the man behind Valentine Vodka – is a native of Leelanau County. A graduate of Cornell University, where he earned a BA in Economics, Rifino spent 11 years on Wall Street as an independent trader before founding his own successful trading firm. He returned to his home state in 2005 to fulfill his dream of creating Valentine Vodka.

Through his hand-crafted products, Rifino hopes to draw on the inspiration and history that the City of Detroit brings when it comes to distilled spirits, as he develops and grows Valentine Vodka. After three years of intense research and study, Valentine Vodka reached the market in March, 2009. From Christmas 2009 to the same time 2010, sales for Valentine Vodka has quadrupled in sales and can now be found in more than 900 outlets throughout Michigan and Illinois.

For a list of retail outlets carrying Valentine Vodka, as well as a menu of signature cocktails, log onto www.valentinevodka.com (www.facebook.com/valentinevodka).

Official Facebook Event, sponsored by The Metropolitan Detroit: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=221596637854678

Robinette Cellars Hosts Blessing of the Blossoms

2011-05-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the arrival of spring and to offer a blessing for the upcoming season, Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery is hosting a “Blessing of the Blossoms” on Saturday, May 7 from 1-4:30pm.

The afternoon will include:

• Blessing from Pastor John Delger of Central Christian Church
• Special performance by Bluegrass band, Zellie's Opry House Band
• Julia Rothwell of US Apple
• Linda Jones of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council
• Free wagon rides
• Door prize drawings

Robinette’s will also offer its Centennial year special: a cup of cider and a donut for just 100 pennies. There will also be ice cream, homemade lunches, and wine tasting throughout the day.

Founded in 1911, Robinette’s is a 5th generation, 125-acre year-round agricultural destination in northern Kent County – celebrating its Centennial in 2011. In addition to the orchard and winery, Robinette’s offers a cider mill, farm market, corn maze, horse-drawn wagon rides, mountain biking trail, bakery and full lunch menu. The 1800s Gift Barn features made in Michigan products, such as food items and fine art, as well as holiday decorations and custom-packaged gift boxes.

Robinette’s holds memberships in the Michigan Apple Committee, Michigan Cider Makers Guild, Michigan State Horticultural Society, Kent Harvest Trails, Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association, Local First and West Michigan Tourist Association.

For hours, activities and more information, visit www.robinettes.com

OFFICIAL FACEBOOK EVENT: www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=212893278740013

Secchia Institute for Culinary Education Team Wins 2011 Chefs Challenge

2011-05-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

The team from Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College was named winner of the 2011 Chefs Challenge during an “Iron Chef” inspired competition – edging out a team from The Art Institute of Michigan of Novi. The competition was held at Boyne Mountain Resort on Saturday, April 30, with Emmy Award winning chef and award-winning cookbook author Eric Villegas serving as master of ceremonies.

Earlier in the day, 11 teams from around Michigan cooked up mini plates which were evaluated by an esteemed group of culinary judges to determine the top two teams. Those teams provided the entertainment for diners that evening by cooking up detailed menu incorporating a variety of Michigan products which were then judged in front of the crowd to pick the top team.

“People’s Choice” awards were presented earlier in the day in several categories:

Beverage Division

Artisan Brew: Short's Brewery
Wine: (TIE) Bowers Harbor Winery & Good Harbor Vineyards
Spirits: Grand Traverse Distillery

Culinary Division

Southwest Michigan: St. Mary's Healthcare (Also named “Overall People’s Choice Winner”)
Northwest Michigan: Odawa Casino & Resort

The Chefs Challenge competition, inspired by the cult sensation Iron Chef America and the famous “Secret Ingredient,” is the culinary must-attend event of the year in Northern Michigan. The food competitions are designed to showcase Michigan food and drink products and their creative applications in a meal. It is an opportunity for Michigan establishments to showcase their talents and gain exposure for their establishment, while raising funds for Challenge Mountain.

The entire weekend benefits nearby Challenge Mountain – a non-profit 501(c)3 organization which provides adaptive outdoor recreational opportunities to people with special needs and their families, free of charge. For more than 25 years, Challenge Mountain has been dedicated to providing a venue for sports, outdoor recreation and leisure skills to those with physical disabilities or mental challenges, and to create happy, healthy and longer lives.

For more information on Chefs Challenge, including the list of teams, judges, seminars and more, log onto www.Chefs-challenge.com. For more on Challenge Mountain, visit www.cmski.org

PHOTO (back row, l-r, judges): Rob Haney, Chef Hermann Suhs, Ruth Mossok Johnson, Nathan Mileski and Barb Thonin. (front row, l-r, Secchia team): Chef Angus Campbell, Henri Ditmar, Eli Franco, Nick Asianian, Mike Stapert and Sasha Amed.

Michigan's River Ridge Campground Celebrates 20 Years as Family-Owned Park

2011-04-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Staley family, owners and operators of River Ridge Campground in Breckenridge invite you to celebrate their 20th Anniversary the weekend of May 20-21.

The weekend includes “Roll Back Prices” on rates – meaning water/electric sites are just $14 per night and water/electric/sewer sites are just $18 per night. Cabins are 20% off as well. Campers can also enjoy special activities throughout the weekend, including cake and ice cream and special prize drawings held at 20 after the hour at select times.

River Ridge Campground ranks among the “Best RV and Tent Campgrounds in the USA” according to Frommer’s – with the maximum four stars in all areas: beauty, spaciousness, security, insect control, site privacy, quiet, cleanliness and facilities. “River Ridge Campground offers two important camping ingredients – quiet and cleanliness” says author Robert W. Sehlinger.

For 2011, River Ridge was one of only a handful of campgrounds in Michigan to be named a 4-W park by Woodall’s and has held this level of ranking for several consecutive years.

Dan and Louella Staley first opened River Ridge Campground in 1991 and built it up as one of Mid-Michigan’s premier camping destinations, with their son Mark serving as park manager. Situated on 20 acres along the scenic Pine River, River Ridge offers 150 RV sites (electric, water, sewer options) and two rustic cabins – each ideal for up to five people, along both paved and unpaved roads.

Other amenities include: heated pool with hot tub, spring-fed pond, fishing, boating (rental kayaks, paddleboats, tubes available), playground, laundry facilities, fire pits, picnic tables, basketball, badminton, horse-shoes, volleyball, sports field, rec hall, camp store, dump station, wireless internet and plenty of family-based activities throughout the season.

Located midway between Midland and Mt. Pleasant, River Ridge Campground is a member of the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (ARVC) – Michigan and National ARVC.

RIVER RIDGE CAMPGROUND
1989 W Pine River Rd.
Breckenridge, MI 48615
800-647-2267
989-842-5184
RiverRidgeCamp@gmail.com
www.RiverRidgeCampgroundsMi.com
www.facebook.com/pages/River-Ridge-CampGround-INC/62154593684

Chef Angie K of Blue House Bistro in Holland Recognized by National Restaurant Association

2011-04-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

Angie K Anderson, Executive Chef and Co-Owner of Blue House Bistro in Holland, has been named a national finalist for the National Restaurant Association (NRA) 2011 American Dream Award, which honors individuals from a diverse background who, through hard work and determination, have realized the American dream.

The story of Anderson's rise through the restaurant and hospitality industry – from her humble beginning as a line cook in New Orleans to owning and running her own boutique restaurant in Holland, Michigan – caught the attention of the NRA award judges and continues to inspire the people Anderson interacts with daily.

“The restaurant industry is one of the most diverse industries in America, and prides itself on providing opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds and cultures,” said National Restaurant Association President and CEO Dawn Sweeney. “We are celebrating that by honoring these individuals and companies with our 2011 Faces of Diversity awards. It is a true pleasure to recognize their personal and professional achievements, which underscore how hard work and determination lead to success in our industry."

The award is one of two Faces of Diversity Awards, created by the NRA and PepsiCo Foodservice to recognize the restaurant industry's commitment to diversity and to celebrate individuals in the restaurant industry who are achieving the American dream.

Anderson began her craft in a small bar and grill as a line cook in New Orleans in 1997, quickly learning and growing more and more skilled in cooking as she worked in different restaurants within the city. Eventually, Anderson found herself in Holland where she opened her first restaurant, The Grass Cup Cafe in Graafschap, in early 2006. When an opportunity to establish a restaurant in downtown Holland became available in 2008, Anderson closed the Grass Cup and put all her efforts into restoring an historic building at 220 W. 8th Street.

Blue House Bistro opened in May 2010 and in its first year of operation, has drawn attention from local foodies and media. In his online review, Rob Kirkbridge of GRgrub.com said Angie K’s menu at Blue House Bistro was “truly one of the best meals I’ve had in West Michigan.”

www.BlueHouseBistro.com

Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises 960,000 restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of nearly 13 million employees. Together with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, the Association works to lead America’s restaurant industry into a new era of prosperity, prominence, and participation, enhancing the quality of life for all we serve. For more information about the Faces of Diversity awards program, visit www.restaurant.org/diversity.

Three Students Awarded Kent County Lodging Association Scholarships for Hospitality Education

2011-04-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

(l-r) Brandi Kushuba, FSU; Erin Lecker, GVSU; Gabrielle McMaster, FSU.

The Kent County Lodging Association (KCLA) has announced the recipients of its 2011 / 2012 Hospitality Education Scholarships. A total of 5 applications were received from students representing three different educational institutions. Three students were awarded scholarships for the upcoming academic year at the KCLA April 21 meeting held at the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Grand Rapids.

This year’s recipients include:

• Erin Lecker
Grand Valley State University (sophomore from Saginaw, Mich)
Major: Hospitality & Tourism Management
Minor: Spanish
Scholarship Amount: $1000

• Gabrielle McMaster
Ferris State University (sophomore from Pinconning, Mich)
Major: Resort Management
Minors: Club Management; Special Event & Meeting Planning
Scholarship Amount: $500

• Brandi Kushuba
Ferris State University (sophomore from Grand Blanc, Mich)
Major: Resort Management
Minors: Club Management; Special Event & Meeting Planning
Scholarship Amount: $500

To be considered for one of the scholarships, the student had to be enrolled in the hospitality, travel/tourism and/or food service program at their respective college, university or institution; must be in at least this/her second year of the program; must have an accumulative GPS of 3.00 or higher; must have a minimum of 500 hours of practical on-the-job experience (including paid or unpaid internships) in his/her field of study; and must be endorsed by the department.

Re-established in the summer of 2005, KCLA is a non-profit, membership based organization made up of lodging properties and other hospitality businesses which service and compliment this industry. The organization meets monthly at hotels and destination properties throughout Kent County and also hosts educational training seminars, social activities and fundraisers for its hospitality scholarship fund.

KCLA serves to promote practical and fair cooperation with local, state and the United States governmental agencies on behalf of the Association members. It also works to advance and promote the fair exchange of information necessary in the public interest, or for the welfare of the lodging business as well as practical public relations in the interest of the lodging business; and encourages the spirit of friendly cooperation and the exchange of business among the members of the Association thus enabling the lodging businesses in the Kent County Area to better serve the public.

Jolly Pumpkin Releases Biere de Mars Grand Reserve April 25

2011-04-23T18:33:00.000-07:00

On Monday, April 25, Jolly Pumpkin will release its long-anticipated Biere de Mars Grand Reserve – available in both Ann Arbor and Traverse City starting at 4pm.

The story behind the Sour Flanders ales Biere de Mars and Biere de Mars Grand Reserve is that both are brewed with identical recipes, using two different yeasts. Each is then aged – or mellowed – in different oak barrels for about four months before being reblended back together for bottling. The Grand Reserve, however, is aged for over a year in the barrels before being reblended and bottled – making it even more sour.

Only 20 cases of 330ml bottles of the Grand Reserve will be available, with a limit of two (2) bottles per person which will sell for $10 per bottle. An even more limited number of 750ml bottles will be available, in Ann Arbor only, for $20 per bottle.

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as the soon-to-be-released Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table restaurant (former Bowers Harbor Inn) or at the original Jolly Pumpkin brewing facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table & Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin & Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

Jolly Pumpkin Brewing Company
www.JollyPumpkin.com

Jolly Pumpkin Releases Bambic in Celebration of Winking Lizard’s 25th Anniversary

2011-04-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

Monday, April 25 is a busy day for Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, with the release of Bambic – brewed as a 25th Anniversary celebration ale for Winking Lizard Tavern.

Bambic is a blend of Bam Biere – a farmhouse style ale and Lambiscus – our Lambic beer, fermented with 100% wild Dexter yeast. The 330ml bottles of Bambic will sell for $8 at Jolly Pumpkin in Ann Arbor and Traverse City, as well as at any of the 14 neighborhood Winking Lizard Taverns located throughout Ohio.

The Jolly Pumpkin is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the Grizzly Peak and North Peak Beer Co. craft beer brands, as well as the soon-to-be-released Civilized line of spirits. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. All of the beers and spirits under these brands are produced at either the new 5600-square-foot facility on Old Mission Peninsula adjacent to Mission Table restaurant (former Bowers Harbor Inn) or at the original Jolly Pumpkin brewing facility in Dexter.

Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table & Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin & Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.Jolly Pumpkin Brewing Companywww.JollyPumpkin.com

Uncle John's Fruit House Winery Snags a Dozen Medals at 2011 Great Lakes Cider & Perry Competition

2011-04-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

Uncle John’s Fruit House Winery, located on US27 North in St. Johns, returned home from the Great Lakes Cider & Perry Festival in Grand Rapids earlier this month with a dozen new pieces of hardware. According to owner and cider maker Mike Beck, the 8-year-old winery was awarded five gold medals, five silver medals and two bronze medals, including:

Cyser (4 entries)
Gold - Cyser
A fresh blend of Apple Wine & Michigan honey, with subtle hints of melon, honey and spices.

Common Cider (35 entries)
Silver – Seasonal Baldwin
A Varietal Cider made from an apple that was our Nation’s #1 planted variety its 100 yrs of existence.

Silver – Original Hard Cider
Full-flavored, crisp and refreshing with just the right amount of carbonation.

Bronze – Bourbon Barrel Cider
Dry Cider aged in Bourbon Barrels to give it a hearty Bourbon character…

Perry (6 entries)
Gold – Perry
Made from juicy Michigan Bartlett pears; semi-dry and sparkling with carbonation.

Fruit Cider (16 entries)
Gold – Apple Cranberry
Full-flavored, crisp and refreshing, barrel aged for approximately 4 months.

Bronze – Apple Cherry Cider
A carbonated blush made with fresh apple hard cider, mixed with Michigan Cherry Juice.

Apple Wine (10 entries)
Silver – Apple Wine
A Semi-Dry wine from a blend of apple varities. Crisp & Refreshing and great for mulling.

Specialty Cider (19 entries)
Silver – Fireball Cider
A cider blended with Atomic Fireballs that is fun to drink and takes you on a stroll down memory lane.

Intensified Cider
Gold – Apple Dessert Wine
Starting with fruit wine then fortified with brandy from the same fruit.

Distilled Eau de vie (5 entries)
Gold - Vodka
This is not apple “flavored” vodka, rather vodka distilled from apples. It is ultra smooth and clean with gentle fruit and spice notes. Made with Uncle John’s apples, coming in at 86 proof.

Distilled – Brandy (Oak Aged) (6 entries)
Bronze – Apple Brandy
A 90 proof brandy distilled from apple cider boasting subtle fruit bouquet with flavors of spice and leather, followed by a toasty oak finish. A nice earthy note finishes the palette from aging in French and American Oak Barrels.

The Great Lakes Cider & Perry Competition has grown to become the second largest cider and perry competition in the English-speaking world, behind the Royal Bath & West Show in Somerset, England.
This year, the competition showed notable growth with the number of commercial entries more than doubling. There were 19 categories of entry in three divisions – two commercial and one non-commercial. Entries came from 17 US states and three Canadian provinces, as well as producers in the English counties of Herefordshire, Warwickshire, Dorset and Suffolk. The 6th annual competition is sponsored by the Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association.

The Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association is a not-for-profit organization incorporated in 2008 with a mission of promoting cider and perry and of providing related educational opportunities for producers and consumers. Its core membership is comprised of commercial and noncommercial cidermakers in the states and province bordering on the Great Lakes. Additional information about the Association may be found at www.greatlakescider.com.

Centrally located in the state, Uncle John's Fruit House Winery mixes traditional agri-tourism with a Winery and Tasting Room. Uncle John's specializes in Fruit Wines, Hard Ciders and Perrys. Aside from the fruit wines, we also feature traditional grape varieties, as well as Apple Brandy and Vodka made from Apples. The winery and tasting room is housed in an 85-year-old restored fruit packing house and is located beside Uncle John’s Cider Mill, Pie Barn and Gift Shop. Uncle John’s is located at 8614 N. US 127, seven miles north of St. Johns and four miles south of US-127 and M-57 intersection.

For more information, visit Fruit House Winery online at www.fruithousewinery.com

Robinette Cellars Scores Four Medals at 6th Annual Great Lakes Cider & Perry Competition

2011-04-20T05:56:00.000-07:00

Robinette Cellars in Grand Rapids proudly brought home four medals from the 6th Annual Great Lakes Cider & Perry Competition, sponsored by the Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association (www.greatlakescider.com). The competition was held April 2 in Grand Rapids, Mich.

This year, significant growth was reported in the number of participants, drawing 265 entries in 19 categories from throughout North America from Washington to Nova Scotia and from Quebec to Texas, as well as entries from overseas (Last year, the total number of entries was 91, in 17 categories).

This competition includes categories for both commercial producers (those who may lawfully sell their products) and non-commercial producers (home hobbyists and commercial establishments such as cider mills that press fresh juice but are not licensed to sell fermented products). With 19 categories of entry, the competition is unique in its high level of inclusiveness with fermented products of all kinds are welcome: ciders, perries, meads, beers, and commercial distillates, provided that they are made with apples or pears.

This year, Robinette Cellars received medals for:

Common Cider
Bronze – Barzilla’s Brew Hard Sider
Lightly carbonated, dry, made with apple juice.

Fruit Cider
Bronze – Apple Cherry Hard Cider
Lightly carbonated, semi-dry, made with apple juice and Michigan cherry juice.

Intensified Cider
Silver - Dessert Apple Wine
Apple wine fortified with apple brandy.

Open Mead
Bronze – Cyser
Honey and apple juice fermented with dates & raisins.

“This is a great honor for us to bring home so many medals from this competition once again,” says Bill Robinette – hard cider maker and wine maker at Robinette’s. “With the increase in the number of entries from around the world, it’s great that we’re being recognized for our products in a variety of categories. Michigan had a proud showing at the competition, and we’re excited to be part of this thriving agri-tourism industry.”

Robinette Cellars began producing its line of hard cider, mead, cyser and wine in January, 2006, and currently has a product list of 16, all made with Michigan fruit. Visitors to Robinette Cellars pay $3 per person or $5 per couple for a souvenir wine glass and samples of six of their local wines. The glass can be brought back on future visits for free tastings.

Founded in 1911, Robinette’s is a 5th generation, 125-acre year-round agricultural destination in northern Kent County – celebrating its Centennial in 2011. In addition to the orchard and winery, Robinette’s offers a cider mill, farm market, corn maze, horse-drawn wagon rides, mountain biking trail, bakery and full lunch menu. The 1800s Gift Barn features made in Michigan products, such as food items and fine art, as well as holiday decorations and custom-packaged gift boxes.

Robinette’s holds memberships in the Michigan Apple Committee, Michigan Cider Makers Guild, Michigan State Horticultural Society, Kent Harvest Trails, Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association, Local First and West Michigan Tourist Association.

For hours, activities and more information, visit www.robinettes.com

Vic Foerster - Author of Naked in the Stream: Isle Royale Stories to Speak & Sign Books April 28 at Schuler Books in Grand Rapids

2011-04-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

A wilderness island in Lake Superior calls Vic Foerster to cross the world’s largest lake, land on the island’s rocky shore, hike its bony spine, fish its shoal embedded coves, camp in harm’s way, and fall in love with it all—bugs included. Naked in the Stream, Isle Royale Stories is Vic Foerster’s intimate account of what it means to find, revere, and experience wilderness. Isle Royale is a remote island in Lake Superior, accessible only by boat or seaplane.

On Thursday, April 28 at 7pm, Schuler Books at 3165 Alpine Avenue in Grand Rapids welcomes Vic Foerster, author of Northern Michigan’s bestselling book, Naked in the Stream, Isle Royale Stories.

Foerster’s humor and passion shine through these stories. He describes what it feels like when dormant muscles spring to life while lugging a canoe over steep ridges, the panic caused by paddling against a stiff head-wind, straining to reach shore, how to fish for dinner on Lake Superior from a canoe, and how to hold your breath as you pass by an eagle perched 50 feet away. Observe the moose, the wolves, and the fascinating people Vic encounters. Draw close to the Great Lakes wilderness that outdoor enthusiasts place in their bucket list and say, “One day ... ”

Former artist-in-resident Joyce Koskenmaki’s artwork graces the writing. This is a book that Jerry Dennis, author of The Living Great Lakes, describes as worthy of the Sigurd Olson Outstanding Writing Award and Michigan notable book author, Tom Springer, says combines a rare originality with humor and an abiding grace.

Foerster is a consulting arborist who has served West Michigan for the past 35 years. He now turns his observational skills toward what many call the “Jewel of the National Park System.”

Naked in the Stream: Isle Royale Stories
By Vic Foerster
Arbutus Press – Traverse City
ISBN 978-1-933926-22-3
Paperback 6X9, 300 pages
$19.95

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vic-Foerster/130586753681099

Grand Rapids Based Ice Brigade Celebrates Successful First Season on Food Network

2011-04-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, March 3 – West Michigan, the United States and even the world took note as ice carvers Randy Finch, Derek Maxfield and their team from Ice Sculptures, LTD., in Grand Rapids, launched their series Ice Brigade on the Food Network.

Ice Brigade follows Michigan-based chef Randy Finch and his team of renegade ice artists as they blow the lid off ice sculpting by developing original designs that defy the imagination. To these frozen outlaws, the standard wedding swans are simply huge ice cubes. The real thrill of their bone-chilling craft is to make life-sized and interactive creations like pool tables, bowling lanes, grand pianos, carousels and putt-putt courses.

Armed with chain saws, chisels and sledge hammers, each episode features Randy and crew sculpting rock-solid ice blocks into out-of-this world art and delivering them to awestruck clients. No matter the job or locale, the mission remains the same: get the job done, before it all melts away. The show airs at 10pm on Thursday nights (with repeat airings a couple times per week).

“The whole cast is really excited to be celebrating the season one finale right here in Grand Rapids,” says Ice Guru Randy Finch. “We look forward to the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to the community for their overwhelming support!”

More than 100 fans met at GP Sports inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel that first week to cheer on the cast during the first episode. Each week, whether at GP’s or Peppino’s Downtown GR, fans have continued to gather together to watch the show which has carved a special place in the hearts of many.

Ice Brigade has garnered media attention on both the local and national level, including an impressive appearance on March 18 on The Today Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda (now archived on MSNBC.com), as well as a segment on CBS News. Articles about the show have also appeared in New York Magazine and the Wall Street Journal.

In all, seven episodes comprise Season #1 of Ice Brigade. Each episode features at least two major ice sculptures for clients in Grand Rapids and throughout Michigan. The final show will air on Thursday, April 14 and a special “Spring Bling” finale party is planned for the International Ballroom at the JW Marriott.

The Spring Bling featuring the entire cast of The Ice Brigade
Thursday, April 14 | 8pm – 1am
International Ballroom - JW Marriott, Downtown Grand Rapids
Music: Soundscape Designer - Todd Ernst
Dress: Blingy and Springy!
Ages 21 and up | No Cover | Cash Bar

Special low-bling drink pricing will be available, along with unique "Ice Brigade" drinks prepared just for this event! Surprises all night long, including props from the show, LIVE ice sculpting and much, much more.

www.icebrigade.com
www.facebook.com/icebrigade
www.foodnetwork.com/ice-brigade

Jamie Jewell named Vice President of Sales & Marketing at The Homestead

2011-03-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

In 1989, she was a Grand Valley college student working the phones at The Homestead as part of a summer internship. Jamie Jewell has been moving up the company ladder ever since—front desk manager; manager of reservations, senior manager of sales, and, now, The Homestead’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

“Over the years, Jamie has served in many keys roles,” says Bob Kuras, President of The Homestead. “She knows what makes this place and northern Michigan such a special destination for our guests. Jamie understands customer service. She also has great vision and creative ideas, which make her ideally suited for a leadership role in marketing and public relations.”

The Homestead, America’s Freshwater Resort, is a beachfront resort community situated on 350 acres in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. With several miles of frontage on the Crystal River and Lake Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Bay, the four-season resort includes a spa, health and fitness center, year-round recreational facilities, restaurants, shops, resort hotels, a lodge, an historic inn and privately owned condominiums and homes. An affiliate owns an Arnold Palmer signature 18-hole golf course.

Two projects on which Jewell has worked extensively recently received national recognition. Last fall, the Manitou Passage Golf Club (www.manitoupassagegolfclub.com) was chosen by Golfweek magazine as one of its “Best New Courses” of 2010. Last month, The Homestead was named “2011 Best of Weddings” by The Knot the nation’s favorite weddings magazine.

Jewell sits on the board for the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau and directs the publication of Manitou: The magazine of Leelanau, an annual, northern Michigan lifestyle publication that highlights the people, places, and activities unique to Leelanau County.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100.

Spring is in the Air at The Homestead – America’s Freshwater Resort in Glen Arbor

2011-03-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

"Spring Sip & Savor" Wine Trail Event: April 30-May 1, 2011
Join us for the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association's annual Spring Sip & Savor wine trail event. As our vineyards wake to the sun & warmth of May, we kick off the season with a brunch-themed wine and food pairing at each of the 18 wineries on the wine trail. For added fun, event participants are encouraged to keep their pajamas on when they set out in the morning and try to win one of the prizes that many of the wineries will be offering. In addition to the pajama contest, this year we will be welcoming 'fancy hats' as part of the judging. On Saturday your wine tour begins at any Leelanau Peninsula Vintner’s Association winery of your choice. At your first stop you will receive a souvenir glass that you may use at any winery. You decide which wineries to visit between 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sunday.

Package includes lodging two nights in one of our four hotels and couple's ticket to the Sip & Savor tour. Priced from $72 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Hotels include Fiddler's Pond, Little Belle, Stony Brook Lodge, or The Inn.

Great Lakes Spring Eco-Photo Tour: May 6-8, 2011
A favorite Great Lakes Photo Tour for dazzling spring wildflowers! Participants are treated to one of the most naturally beautiful areas in Michigan. The splendor of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the quaintness of the Leelanau Peninsula offer outstanding scenic views of sweeping sand dunes, vast Lake Michigan shorelines and Wyeth-like farm scenes full of blooming cherry orchards, all fresh for the season. From flowing landscapes to artistic close-ups, this tour offers exceptional photographic subject matter and unparalleled guide service to digital ‘snap shooters’ and advanced amateurs alike. All participants will benefit and improve their photography skills by learning from the professional photography team of Mark S. Carlson and Bob Grzesiak.

Complete tour package includes: tuition, two nights' lodging in a Fiddler's Pond guest room. For more information or reservations, please call the Great Lakes Photo Tours at 517.230.1655 or visit Mark Carlson Tours.

"Spring in Bloom" Wine Tasting Weekend: May 13-15, 2011
A best seller...this event includes two nights' lodging, continental breakfast each morning, a tasting tour of three Leelanau County wineries on Saturday with transportation and to-go lunch provided. That evening, you'll enjoy an exquisite five-course winemaker dinner prepared by Chef John Piombo, featuring local wines.

Offered in Fiddler's Pond, Little Belle and The Inn from only $126 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Space is limited. Call 231.334.5100 for reservations.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community, located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100.

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thehomesteadmi.

Michigan Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds Names Tracie “Tate” Fisher as Executive Director

2011-03-15T18:29:00.000-07:00

Tracie Fisher, Certified Park Operator (CPO), has been named executive director of the Michigan Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (ARVC). The owner and creator of Tate Fisher Marketing and Campground Manager Today, Tracie will return to her home state of Michigan from Flagstaff, AZ, to head up the organization which represents more than 180 member campgrounds around the state.

“Tracie’s ideas, contacts, strong leadership and knowledge of our industry make her the ideal person for this job,” says Tim Wilcox, ARVC-Michigan Vice President. “She, along with our Board of Directors, will be steering the ARVC Michigan ship into new directions in the coming months and years.”

A life-long camper, Tracie began working in the industry in 2004 when she was hired as the office manager for Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping in Mackinaw City, MI, a position she held for three years. She also served two years as secretary for ARVC-Michigan and during that time attended the National School of RV Park and Campground Management to earn her CPO designation. She also has an Associates Degree in Accounting from North Central Michigan College and is currently working toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Humanities from Northern Arizona University.

“My professional years in the camping industry have taught me about the unseen sweat equity invested by owners in running their RV parks and campgrounds,” Tracie says. “Admittedly, I have a ‘soft spot’ for park owners and the challenges they face. I look forward to working with them on an individual level and also strengthening our overall camping industry here in Michigan.”

In 2007, Tracie formed Tate Fisher Marketing – a consulting firm which provides website development, search engine optimization and social media management services for park owners and organizations – including ARVC-Michigan and a handful of its members.

Although her address over the past three years hasn’t been inside Michigan, Tracie has maintained a relationship with ARVC-Michigan by developing and maintaining the organization’s .org member website; assisting with administrative operations of the association’s social media channels; and attending annual conventions to lead sessions, gather video footage and offer tips to member campgrounds about website and social media opportunities.

In 2009, Tracie began teaching website and social media related classes at the National School of RV Park and Campground Management. In 2010, she was appointed to the advisory board of the first-ever Virtual Outdoor Hospitality Expo, assisting exhibitors in setting up their booths and administering booths for ARVC-Michigan and the National School of RV Parks and Campground Management.

“I am thrilled to have been selected as ARVC Michigan’s new Executive Director,” says Tracie. “These are challenging times but I look forward to implementing a new plan, moving ARVC Michigan forward and creating real value for its members. I believe communication is key to getting things done and I will be maintaining a Facebook page for that purpose - to talk with members – on a regular basis.”

ARVC represents more than 180 member campgrounds with more than 30,000 sites available throughout the state. The mission of ARVC-Michigan is to lead in the development of the RV Park and Campground industry through education, communication and representation.

ARVC-Michigan seeks to promote an innovative, growing campground industry that is continuously striving to reach new heights in hospitality, professional skills, education and service to meet the needs of the camping public. Members are devoted to providing quality family recreation while addressing vital member concerns via collaboration and connection with other state, regional and national recreation interest. the association is ultimately committed to excellence and leadership for the future of the Michigan campground and recreation industry.

www.MichCampgrounds.com
www.Facebook.com/MichCampgrounds

Chef Eric Villegas Named Master of Ceremonies for Chefs Challenge, April 29-30 at Boyne Mountain

2011-03-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

Emmy-Award winning Chef Eric Villegas – star of the PBS show “Fork in the Road” and the award-winning companion cookbook of the same name – has been named Master of Ceremonies for the “Iron Chef Competition” to be held Saturday, April 30 at Boyne Mountain in Boyne City, Michigan, as the culmination of the Chefs Challenge weekend.

Award winning chef-restaurateur, cookbook author and television personality Eric Villegas has done more than any other culinarian to introduce the country to the regional and local foods of his beloved Michigan and the Great Lakes. The Michigan born chef embarked on his culinary career after studying liberal arts at Michigan State University. Moving to Paris, France he attended Anne Willan’s LaVarenne Ecole de Cuisine and Steven Spurrier’s Academie du Vin. After which he gained a wide range of practical cooking experience in the classic restaurant kitchens of France’s gastronomic capital, Lyon.

After two years abroad, Chef Villegas returned to the States to continue his studies at the New England Culinary Institute, where he specialized in the service aspect of hospitality running the school’s ﬂagship dining room. From 1987 to 2007, chef Villegas owned and operated two of mid-Michigan's most unique award winning regional restaurants, Dusty's Wine Bar and his eponymous ﬂagship, Restaurant Villegas where working closely with local farmers and ranchers he developed his now highly recognized contemporary Midwestern style.

Since debuting on Michigan public television in 2001, Villegas has been tirelessly seeking out the artisan growers, farmers and ranchers that continuously produce top quality foods for the American table. “Fork in the Road with Eric Villegas” also brought recipes, cooking tips and culinary history based on the Great Lakes food scene. Originally airing weekly on PBS in his home state of Michigan and Canada, his efforts brought the chef two regional EMMY awards as host for popular show. In late 2007 "Fork" began national distribution via NETA on PBS offering his unique take on regional and sustainable Michigan agriculture and cuisine to the rest of the country.

The long awaited companion cookbook to the award winning series hit store shelves in late 2007 and immediately garnered the chef another award as being listed as one of Michigan's most notable books of the year.

In 2011 Chef Villegas teamed up with Reader’s Digest's culinary juggernaut, Taste of Home. Boasting the largest circulation of any cooking magazine in the world, the Taste of Home Cooking School will have chef crisscrossing the country hosting up to 2500 eager guests for a standing room only two hour cooking classes.

Closer to home Chef Villegas also returned to his roots in the kitchen. Now, as the Culinary Director of the Michigan Brewing Company, Chef will be designing all new recipes and menus for the original brewery and its growing number of pubs all – of which will utilize the brewery's award winning beers, coupled with Chef’s unique local style.

The "Culinary Compound" is Chef Villegas' aptly named culinary headquarters and homestead that he shares with his growing family, fiance Dana and their children Taylor and baby Sophia. On any given day, you might find him testing recipes for his growing roster of culinary clients in-between making school lunches and heating baby bottles.

A highly sought after public speaker Chef Villegas keeps the rest of his culinary calendar full with cooking demonstrations, book signings and public appearances throughout the Great Lake State and the rest of the country. In recent years, he’s been a featured chef at the Epicurean Classic in Traverse City and the Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival. While he oversees many projects, each is infused with his culinary passion – all the while reminding everyone watching, reading or listening to "think global but to buy and eat local!"

The Chefs Challenge competition, inspired by the cult sensation Iron Chef America and the famous “Secret Ingredient,” is the culinary must-attend event of the year in Northern Michigan. The food competitions are designed to showcase Michigan food and drink products and their creative applications in a meal. It is an opportunity for Michigan establishments to showcase their talents and gain exposure for their establishment, while raising funds for Challenge Mountain.

Chefs Challenge kicks off on Friday, April 29 (6-10pm) with a Meet & Greet reception at the Snowflake Lounge in the clock Tower Lodge and the High School Competition where eight schools from across the state participate in two categories: desserts and appetizers, which are then judged by the public and the panel of judges, respectively.

On Saturday, activities between at 9:45am with Seminars and the Michigan Food & Beverage Vendor Showcase, followed by the Tasting Competition, and of course, the Iron Chef Cook-Off & Dinner, followed by the Presentation of the Awards of the Chefs Challenge Winner.

The entire weekend benefits nearby Challenge Mountain – a non-profit 501(c)3 organization which provides adaptive outdoor recreational opportunities to people with special needs and their families, free of charge. For more than 25 years, Challenge Mountain has been dedicated to providing a venue for sports, outdoor recreation, and leisure skills to those with physical disabilities or mental challenges. The goal of all programs is to help create happy, healthy and longer lives.

The public is invited to join in the weekend’s festivities. Costs are:

** Friday night Welcome Reception & High School Competition: $10 per person

** Saturday Tasting Competition: 8 tickets for $25 (Additional tickets, quantities of 4 for $15 or 8 for $25)

** Saturday Night Iron Chef Cook-Off & Dinner: $60 per person online in advance; $75 per person at the door

Lodging packages are available at Boyne Mountain starting at $67 for hotel accommodations and $118 for Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa. Call 800-GO-BOYNE (462-6963) and ask for “Chefs Challenge” rate. www.BOYNE.com

For more information on Chefs Challenge, including the list of teams, judges, seminars and more, log onto www.Chefs-challenge.com. For more on Challenge Mountain, visit www.cmski.org

KEY SPONSOR: Farm Bureau Insurance

SPONSORS: Boyne Mountain, Syngifi Networks, Koegel's, Edible Grande Traverse, Pioneer Sugar

Tapas Sponsors: Karen's Uniforms | Bay Home Medical | Local Flavors | Glen's Market Boyne City

Service Sponsors: Bob Mathers Ford - Boyne City

New Pure Michigan Cookbook Serves Up Fresh and Local Flavors

2011-03-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

Hot off the griddle, Pure Michigan: Eating Fresh and Local in the Great Lakes State, published by Midwest Living, offers up more than 150 pages of recipes and features about Michigan's menu of culinary offerings in big cities and small towns. Bake up a Michigan cherry pie or try the iconic Upper Peninsula specialty, the pasty. Turn up the oven and get cookin' for a true taste of the Great Lakes State. It's all Pure Michigan.

“This new cookbook showcases Michigan’s culinary specialties. It also offers ideas of how to enjoy a visit to savor and explore Pure Michigan products at u-pick farms, orchards, farmer’s markets, restaurants and more than 80 vineyards and wineries,” commented George Zimmermann, Vice President of Travel Michigan, a business unit of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Michigan has a bounty of agricultural offerings and visitors can get a taste at more than 100 food festivals and events throughout the year.”

Visitors can also opt to take a foodie tour to explore specific regions, or book a culinary weekend retreat or attend cooking schools and classes -- all available at michigan.org.

The cookbook features several recipes from Michigan restaurant chefs featuring Pure Michigan ingredients from appetizers to desserts. Cygnus 27 in Grand Rapids, Detroit’s Rattlesnake Club and Trattoria Stella in Traverse City are among the contributors. Home chefs can warm up the kitchen with 60 recipes including Three-Alarm Lansing Fire Chili or Mommy’s Pumpkin Pie from national award-winning Sweetie-licious Pie Pantry in DeWitt.

The full-color, hardcover book retails for $29.95, and is available at the Pure Michigan online store at michigan.org. The book was printed in Ann Arbor, and is distributed by the Pure Michigan merchandise partner, TMP, of Battle Creek. Like all Pure Michigan merchandise, purchases help support the Pure Michigan campaign.

Travel Michigan, a division of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, is the State of Michigan’s official agency for the promotion of tourism. Travel Michigan markets the state’s tourism industry and provides valuable visitor information services. For Michigan travel news and updates, go to michigan.org.