Ladies’ Night – Downtown TC
- At December 07, 2012
- By Kim
- In Kim's posts, Local Happenings
3
A few photos of the lights and shoppers out in downtown Traverse City
on Ladies’ Night.
Gearing Up for the Slopes
Photo courtesy Boyne Resorts
This guest post comes to you from Nick Nerbonne. A lifelong skier, he even chose to attend the University of Utah just to have access to some of the best skiing in the country. Northern Michigan might not have the “mountains” of the west, but it still offers some great skiing as Nick recaps here.
You’ve seen the snowflakes flying. You’ve felt the temperatures dipping. You might have even scraped your car windows or shoveled the walk. Winter’s here, and for those of us waiting to hit the slopes, it’s time to grab the skis and snowboards out of the garage, dig the winter gear out of the storage closet, and get out on the snow for the first turns of the season.
Sure, we haven’t had that big early snowfall yet (planning a snow dance now), but snowmaking has been underway at resorts across northern Michigan since just after Thanksgiving to lend Mother Nature a hand, and lifts will be spinning at several snow sports destinations this weekend.
Ready to hit the snow? Here’s a round-up of what’s happening and who’s opening among northern Michigan ski resorts.
Boyne Highlands (77 miles Northeast of Traverse City in Harbor Springs)
“The Highlands” became the first ski resort to open in the northern lower peninsula earlier this week when their Heather High-Speed Quad began carrying skiers and riders to the top of Heather on Tuesday. With several good days of snowmaking temps since then, it sounds like they’ll be opening more terrain for the weekend.
Opening Date: Opened Tuesday, November 27
Early Season Deal: Six people ski and ride for the price of one lift ticket at Boyne’s annual 6-for-1 day on Friday, December 21.
More info: http://www.boyne.com/BoyneHighlands/index.html
Boyne Mountain (59 miles Northeast of Traverse City in Boyne Falls)
It’s looking like winter at Boyne Mountain (pictured), and the six-person Mountain Express high-speed chair will be whisking skiers and riders to the top beginning Friday. Snowmaking has covered favorites like Victor, Hemlock, and McLouth – among others – with snow, but check Boyne’s snow report to confirm which terrain will be open for the weekend.
Opening Date: Friday, November 30
Early Season Deal: 6-for-1 Day also takes place at Boyne Mountain December 21. Grab the family, or five friends, and ski and ride for the price of one lift ticket.
More info: http://www.boyne.com/BoyneMountain/index.html
Caberfae Peaks (51 miles South of Traverse City near Cadillac)
Skiers and snowboarders in Cadillac can get stoked about riding the Peaks just west of town beginning this Friday. Caberfae Peaks’ inland location and higher elevation often leads to good early-season snowmaking temps, and this year is no different. As of this writing, The Peaks plans to have 3 lifts and 7 runs open beginning Friday.
Opening Date: Friday, November 30
Early Season Deal: 2012-13 season passes start at $149.
More info: http://caberfaepeaks.com/
Crystal Mountain (28 miles southwest of Traverse City)
The snowmaking crew at Crystal has been busy covering the slopes in a blanket of white, but no opening date has been announced. Until the Crystal Clipper high-speed quad starts running (hopefully soon), get in ship-shape for the slopes with Ski Fitness Training at Crystal’s Peak Fitness Center.
Opening Date: Not yet announced
Early Season Deal: Crystal’s new Ski More Lift Card ($49) gives the cardholder one Open-to-Close lift ticket and discounts on additional lift tickets throughout the 2012-13 season. Available until December 8.
More info: www.crystalmountain.com
Nub’s Nob (76 miles Northeast of Traverse City in Harbor Springs)
4” of natural snow this week, added to Nub’s always-aggressive snowmaking efforts, has helped the Nub’s crew have two lifts and at least three runs ready to open Friday, with additional terrain opening for Saturday and Sunday. Heading up for a half day? Grab one of northern Michigan’s best sandwiches at Gurney’s Market in downtown Harbor Springs on the way to the slopes.
Opening Date: Friday, November 30
Early Season Deal: A $25 Tune Center Special is in effect until opening day.
More info: www.nubsnob.com
Shanty Creek Resorts (30 miles Northeast of Traverse City in Bellaire)
Snowmaking is underway at Shanty, and despite making “huge strides” in building a base, the resort near Bellaire announced Wednesday that they’ll be waiting until they can add more to it before opening. Until then, if you’re in the neighborhood, stop into The Lakeview Restaurant at Summit Village for a craft brew from nearby Short’s Brewing.
Opening Date: Not yet announced
Early Season Deal: Unlimited Super Pass on sale for $399.
More info: www.shantycreek.com
Broncobama v. Mitt Romney
- At November 05, 2012
- By Brian
- In Brian's posts, Local Happenings
- 4
Voting and being part of the political process is incredibly important. So as long as you’re not under the age of 18 or a woman before 1920, please go out and vote. With that being said, please be aware that I have attempted to inject some humor into the process. This is by no means meant to be interpreted as a trivialization of the political process. Also, I’ve just covered select races in this post because I don’t have enough time to run through the entire election. And by not enough time I mean I’m just too lazy. And hungover.
US President: Barack v Mitt. You do not need any more info on this race. The amount of spending in this year’s elections is unprecedented, doubling from the 2008 elections. If you own a TV, phone, or radio, you’re a sobbing 4-year-old.
US Senator: There are 6 candidates for this one. The frontrunners are Pete Hoekstra & Debbie Stabenow. According to vote411.org, candidate John Litle did not submit his information in time for his occupation/background to be included on the ticket, so you know, vote for the guy that clearly doesn’t have his $hit together, I bet he’ll be great.
US Congressional Representative: Doctor vs. Farmer/Small Business Owner. The small business owner is the Democratic candidate. Also running, an “independent video producer” and a lawyer. And the lawyer is from the Green Party. I’m so confused. Vote 411 is a great resource though. You enter your location and you can see your local ticket and compare candidates with each other. Do it.
Michigan House of Representatives, 104th District: Wayne Schmidt v Betsy Coffia. Mr. Schmidt did not supply any biographical information to vote411.org. He also declined to respond to questions sent to him by mywheelsareturning.com, one of our favorite blogs (other than ourselves of course). Interpret this how you will.
I was warned not to endorse any candidates or even any political ideologies on this blog (yes, we have our very own PR consultant). And while I agree that’s solid advice, I can’t help it. Betsy Coffia has run an amazingly brave campaign. All of her efforts have been grassroots, she does not accept any special interest money, and post Citizens United, that seems to be incredibly rare. Politicians should not be purchased by the highest bidder and it’s rare you’ll find one that agrees with that sentiment. If you disagree with my endorsement (or even if you agree) I invite you to comment below. My only request is that your discourse be kept civil. If you can’t handle that you deserve to be lashed with a wet noodle (damn – sorry, that wasn’t civil).
Blah blah blah, a bunch of boards of regents and other stuff…
Ballot proposals
There are 6 ballot proposals on the ticket in Michigan.
Proposal 1: would allow the governor to appoint an emergency manager who would use criteria to establish the financial condition of local government units, like schools, and who would then develop financial and operating plans to resolve the emergency. This would include the power to change laws and contracts passed by locally elected officials.
Seems like a lot of power for one appointed (a.k.a. non-elected) individual, no? In fact, this doesn’t even sound like democracy.
Proposal 2: would amend the state constitution to give public and private employees the constitutional right to organize and bargain collectively through labor unions.
This proposal is in response to a number of states, 23 in total, having recently enacted “right-to-work” laws. These laws ban contracts in the private sector that force employees to join or pay fees to a union, which reduces the power of unions. Passing this proposal would prevent a law like this from being enacted in Michigan. I don’t know much about labor law so I’m just going to leave you with that inadequate analysis. You’re welcome.
Proposal 3: will require that we amend the constitution to require that 25% of sales by electric utilities be from wind, solar, biomass, or hydropower by 2025.
I guess my instinct is to wish that we didn’t need to amend the constitution in order to put this into effect; that we should all want to support renewable energy independent of an amendment. But considering there are people who still deny that global warming is occurring, that’s obviously not going to happen. There are a lot of ads stating that your utility bills are going to increase if this proposal passes. While technically possible, the proposal includes language limiting the increase in rates to 1% per year. Over 30 states have enacted similar amendments, including Michigan. Unfortunately, the Mitten State is at the low end with a 10% requirement. At 25% we’d be near (but not at) the top.
Proposal 4: seeks to amend the state constitution to establish the Michigan Quality Home Care Council and provide collective bargaining for in-home care workers.
This would give home-health care workers the right to unionize, a right they do not currently have.
Proposal 5: would amend the state constitution to limit the enactment of new taxes by state government, unless there is a two-thirds majority vote of the state House of Representatives and state Senate, or a statewide vote of the people.
A 2/3 vote (known as a supermajority) for new taxes? Can you say “partisan gridlock?” 13 senators out of 135 members of the Michigan Legislature would be able to stop the closing of tax loopholes and the enactment of new taxes.
Proposal 6: would amend the state constitution to require a statewide and local vote before any new international bridge or tunnel for motor vehicles is constructed.
Big “NO” on this one for me. If passed this would basically enshrine in our constitution one dude’s right to make tons of money. If you’re an heir to his estate then I’ll let it slide if you vote yes. Otherwise, we’ll settle it with fisticuffs.
This seems to be a hotly debated topic. I think the saying is, “vote no on 6 to say yes to the new bridge.” Michigan Truth Squad, part of the bipartisan Center for Michigan, has rated all the ads supporting the amendment as “Flagrant Fouls,” questioning the truthfulness of their contents. This also seems to be the most bizarre proposal. All costs to construct the bridge would be provided by Canada, who will also bear all liability related to construction. The rich white dude multi-millionaire owner of the Ambassador Bridge, the current route to Canada from Detroit, has spent 30 million dollars through companies he owns to support this proposal (which means opposing a new bridge). That’s pocket change from what this guy makes from owning the primary way to transport goods to our friendly Canadian neighbors.
Probate Judge: The probate judge has jurisdiction over some seriously boring, but very important matters, including: administration of decedent’s estates and trusts, and over guardianships and conservatorships. The 2 candidates are Kirsten Keilitz and Melanie Stanton. I had the opportunity to be in Ms. Keilitz’s courtroom (she’s currently a referee) a few times as an intern. She was intelligent, measured, composed, and fair. I don’t think you can ask for much more.
TCAPS Bond: As we all know, property values have stagnated as opposed to increased recently. As a result, there is a bond proposal for TCAPS which would increase your property taxes by approximately $60 to $80 a year. Construction will use local contractors and there is an important trickle down effect to good schools, they attract good employers and employees to our area, ultimately benefitting the economy. This is a no-brainer – yes.
Okay, there’s more, but I’m done. Go vote.
Tricks, Treats, Turnip Souls, & Penguins
- At October 31, 2012
- By Nate
- In Local Happenings
- 0
Halloween, no matter its origin, is a tradition involving visits from the departed. Some are wandering, others just visiting for a while, but many are taking advantage of one last chance to gain
vengeance on their enemies before moving to the next world… yikes! That explains why everybody dresses up, they don’t want to be recognized by all the vengeance seeking souls flying around (I’m totally regretting my choice to put this post together instead of a costume at the moment…). The symbols of Halloween have never completely made sense to me, like what are lighted pumpkins with weird faces carved in them all about? Turns out they represent souls in purgatory. Disturbing. They used to be turnips but when the Halloween tradition moved to America they became pumpkins. Personally, I like the idea of a turnip soul in purgatory. Let’s bring it back! Who’s with me… never mind. And what does “trick or treat” mean? As a kid I thought it meant the homeowner had that choice to give you a trick or a treat and was anxious at each new house thinking for sure this would be the first one to opt for a trick. Turns out the trick part is a (mostly idle) threat! A more accurate interpretation might be “give me a treat or I’ll give you a trick”, enter burning bags of feces, toilet paper, yard sporking, etc.
With all this hullabaloo about ghosts and souls and those who have passed before us a hidden cemetery seemed like a good place to find some Halloween photographs. Fully expecting to have to hide fear and jumpiness from my adventure companions I found no need to bury fright, the cemetery was incredibly peaceful at night. In all honesty it might have been a little scary deep in the dark woods, but then out came a penguin, a duck, a rainbow, a hungry caterpillar, and many more incredibly welcoming friends. Somebody had painted stones with these fun, welcoming characters and left them on the grave markers. The tradition of leaving stones at a grave site seems to have many symbolic meanings, but the most common is a sign of respect for the dead to let others know the grave had been visited, suggesting the continuing presence of love and memory which are as strong and enduring as a rock. That’s nice. Now for that costume…
The Beer Thirty Guide
It’s called “happy” hour for a reason. A discounted cocktail and appetizer are a great way to brighten up any weeknight. If you’re wondering where you should head this week, here is a rundown of some of the best weeknight happy hour options around town.
Monday
If you haven’t had a chance to visit Bistro Foufou, Monday night is an excellent night to do so. This Classic French bistro in downtown Traverse City features ½ off all bottles of wine. Their selection is comprised of wines from various regions of France, as well as some Michigan wines. Paired with an appetizer, it’s a proven remedy for a “case of the Mondays.”
Monday night is also “$10.95 Pitcher & a Pie Night” at Kilkenney’s Irish Public House. A pitcher of beer and a hand-tossed pizza for $10.95? Kind of an outrageous deal. Additionally, it’s Team Trivia Night from 7-9, followed by karaoke from 9-1. So if you’re looking for a less than low-key Monday night, why not start the week off with pizza, a pitcher, and an embarrassing rendition of “Gangnam Style”?
Tuesday
Liven things up midweek at Red Ginger. From 3-6:30, take advantage of $6 martinis, $2 off beer, and $1 or more off wine pours. Even better, food specials on appetizers/sushi include discounted edamame, spring rolls, shrimp tempura, spider, and spicy tuna rolls. It’s also your last chance to take advantage of their feature for Tuesdays in October – 20% off all bottles of wine.
Tuesday is also “Martini Night” at the Beacon Lounge. Commonly known as the “Top of the Park,” the lounge is located on the 10th floor of the Park Place Hotel. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Traverse City and a specialty cocktail for a very low price. Martinis are $5 from 5-midnight.
Wednesday
Fire Fly Cafe and Lounge offers great specials all week long, but Wednesday “Ladies’ Day” tops the list for me. Featuring 1/3 off the entire menu, $5 burgers (including a tasty veggie burger), $1.75 well drinks, $2 house wines, and $1 off all other beverages, you can’t really go wrong. Sorry fellas.
And it must be mentioned, Wednesday night is $1 pint night at Dillinger’s and Bootlegger’s from 9-2. Enough said?
Thursday
“Weekly Ethnic Eats” at Left Foot Charley is one of the most unique weeknight options in Traverse City. Each Thursday from 5-7, Left Foot Charley features a single dish menu as part of a “world tour” of cuisine. Some dishes featured include Cuban, Mexican, Cajun, Indian, and Lebanese. Grab a plate with your choice of wine or cider for $15, or $12 without a beverage.
Friday
As the weekend approaches, the quantity/quality of happy hour options seems to decline. I was pleasantly surprised to discover a fun and distinctive option on Friday at Cherry Republic. Each Friday they host a “Happy Hour for All Ages” from 5-7, featuring live entertainment, special cherry drinks, appetizers, and kids activities.
Honorable mention –
I have to add that there are several places which offer great happy hour options, Monday–Friday. To name a few –
Stop by the bar at Union Cantina from 3-6 to take advantage of $1 off top shelf liquor, $2.50 – $4.50 microbrews, or $4 sangria, mojitos, and margaritas. They also feature discounted appetizers including $4 nachos and $4 guacamole dip.
If you’re looking for an after-work brew, Mackinaw Brewing Company offers 18 oz. drafts for $3 and 9 oz. drafts for $1 from 4-6. The newly re-opened Right Brain Brewery hosts “Super Fantastic Happy Hour” (I dig the title) from 3-6 with $3.50 pints and $3.75 mug fills for members.
Cheers!
