March 2016 Blog, Stories, Tid Bits, Updates and Did Someone Say Restaurant Week 2016

Happy beginning of March 2016 to all of the YP Blog Readers, Michiganders, and everyone else who is going to ponder over this blog for a few minutes.  This month’s blog will feature updates from around the area as well as some highlights from Restaurant Week, our first Morning Brew, and anything that I believe is important to share.  I believe we are all happy with the outcome of the weather in February especially since last February I am pretty sure we were all frozen for a month like Austin Powers.  But either way, we all still look really good, and I mean really good!!

 We had a few YP events this past month.  Our very first Morning Brew included an amazing breakfast spread provided by Priority Health, which by the way you can always count on me being an attendant when food is provided.  Traverse City Chief of Police Jeffrey O’Brien was our guest speaker and gave an amazing presentation about the very first Wet House in Traverse City called Dann’s House.  He gave us great information on how a wet house can be beneficial to our local community.  We had a good turnout, but come on YP’s, we need more of you to attend and plus there is free food, and I cannot eat it all by myself.

 A few of us on the Marketing Committee decided to treat ourselves during restaurant week and share our experiences letting you know where the best places to eat in Traverse City.  We have so many amazing restaurants in the area, and I believe we are more willing to try a restaurant for the first time if one of our fellow YP’s tried it first with the end result being complete and utter satisfaction exceeding our taste buds expectations.  If anyone of you reading this have any questions about any restaurant in town, please feel free to contact me. 

Dan “the man” Baker and his lovely bride decided to start with Red Ginger.  In the words of Mr. Baker, “Vietnamese caramelized chicken was ridiculous.  I ate it so fast I forgot to take a picture!”  “Also, the Ahi BLT pizza (picture below) was the bomb.  It had wasabi, Ahi tuna, bacon, lettuce, and tomato on a flatbread.  Drizzle a little soy sauce over the top and there is nothing to love.”  So my friends, Red Ginger on Front Street is for sure a great place to go after work for Happy Hour or gentlemen take that lucky lady of yours out on a “HOTT” date.

My lovely wife and I decided to head to the Towne Plaza, which is on the corner of Cass and State.  I also gave Mr. Baker the low down and suggestions before him and his lovely wife went there later in the week.  Kate and I absolutely love their brunch so much and after looking at their restaurant week menu, we knew we had to dine there immediately.  The best part of restaurant week is you get a 3 course meal for $25 a person, which if you look at all the menus, it is a great deal and an opportunity to try several different foods and small plates that we would never make in our own kitchens.  My wife and I ordered Baked Leelanau Cheese in a Puff Pastry with Apple Puree and Risotto Stuffed with Mozzarella with a Smoked Tomato Balsamic Reduction (picture below). 

Risotta

The 1^st course was filled with flavors, which made the taste buds very happy.  The combination of flavors in both dishes was a perfect balance preparing us for the second course.  The second course consisted of Grilled Romaine topped with chunks of pancetta, Parmigianino Reggiano, and lemon vinaigrette, and Wild Mushroom Bisque featuring 3 types of mushrooms.  Once again the flavors in both dishes were incredible leaving us wanting more and excited for the 3^rd and final course.  We both ordered the 10 oz. strip steak with whipped russet potatoes, roasted tomato bleu cheese butter, demi glaze and vegetables, but luck would have it they were out of the 10 oz. and the substitute was an 8 oz. tenderloin.  Both of our tenderloins were cooked to perfection with flavors we have not experienced before.  It was a great way to end our 3 course dinner journey.  The Bakers had a similar experience leaving them in complete awe at how amazing their journey was.  It was so good for them that words could not describe it considering all they gave me were some amazing pictures.

 Strip Steak 

 

 

Seafood in Tomato Saffron Broth

 As you all can tell, the Towne Plaza does not mess around hooking up TC with some dazzling dishes that tantalize the taste buds.  By the way, best blueberry pancakes I have ever had in my life, and a little fact about me is I am a pancake nut.  We highly recommend spending some time with friends at the Towne Plaza. 
 

Finally, my main girl Stephanie hit up the Boathouse with her family.  Her experience is said below. 

Allow me to set the scene: You and your husband moved into a new home on Saturday, your parents came to town on Sunday, and you need a place that can actually locate their dishes to make dinner for all of you on a Monday. Thank God for Traverse City Restaurant Week. We were lucky enough to snag one of the final available reservations for the Boathouse on the Monday of TCRW. 

Even with the weekend, we'd had, I immediately felt relaxed when we entered. The Boathouse feels like a cozy, tastefully designed cottage by the water, where you have been invited to share a meal with friends. My parents had arrived early and there was a beautifully arrayed cheese plate waiting at the table for us. There were a variety of delicious cheeses offered, but the favorite of the table was the quince paste which was a sweet, fruity complement to the spread. 

 I started with the Boathouse Salad which had fresh mozzarella and some of the most flavorful middle-of-winter heirloom tomatoes I've ever had. I'm still kicking myself for not asking where they were sourced from - I thought I couldn't get those until August! For the main course, the rest of the table choose the tasteful Salmon plate, but I decided to go all out and order the Surf and Turf. Restaurant Week isn't for the weak, in my opinion. The lobster tail was rich and delicious, but my favorite part of the dish was the perfectly cooked petite filet. The sides complemented nicely and the béarnaise sauce pulled it all together. Finally, as if I needed another dish to satisfy, the dark chocolate mousse arrived complete with cocoa nibs and berries. Before I could even think to snap a photo, I had already scraped the interior of the glass it was served in. I at least remembered to apologize to my husband, who didn't get even one taste.

 To no one's surprise, I would highly recommend the Boathouse for future Restaurant Week goers. The atmosphere is lively, the view lovely and the food does not disappoint. Just be sure to make your reservations early...you never know whose parents will be in town next year.

Well boys and girls there you have it some fun reviews of 3 great dining establishments to try before the crazy tourist season arrives.  The Boathouse on Old Mission Peninsula, Red Ginger in the heart of downtown on Front Street and the Towne Plaza at Cass and State.  We have an amazing city with wonderful restaurants, food trucks, and other fun venues.  Get out of the house, grab some friends or your loved ones or even give me a call, and get your DINE ON!!!



As some of you remember from February's Blog, I like to highlight a certain YP.  February's edition featured Dr. Brandon Larabee who has finally opened his doors at his new Chiropractic office overlooking West Bay.  We should all visit Brandon to make him feel more like home and to of course get adjusted, which is an amazing feeling.  

This month we are highlighting Rose Zivkovich who is taking the helm as Director of SCRAP TC.  The following is a great press release for Rose.  Next time you see her, make sure you give her a HIGH 5 congratulating her on her new endeavor.  YAY ROSE!!!

 

SCRAP TC Continues to Craft the Future of Creative Reuse in Traverse City

Announcing a New Director and a New Direction

Traverse City, MI – SCRAP TC’s advisory council is proud to announce a new director and a new direction. Rose Zivkovich takes the reins as Director of SCRAP TC with vision, creativity and enthusiasm. The community can expect to see her vision become reality beginning with expanded hours in March. More hours means more accessibility for the community. It also means more exciting inventory of colorful and usable art and craft materials and more opportunities for volunteers to share in the creative mission.

 Zivkovich is excited to lead a creative and innovative program here. “This is a great opportunity for me to give back to the community and at the same time teach my young children the importance of reducing waste by creatively reusing materials. I plan to expand our retail store hours, involve new and much needed volunteers, increase awareness of our programs and offer craft classes for all ages to encourage creative reuse.”

 Zivkovich earned her MBA from Walsh College in Troy, MI and brings a wealth of management experience to SCRAP TC. She has hit the ground running with her contagious enthusiasm. She is committed to other TC community organizations including Make a Wish Foundation, Girl Scouts and the Mom’s Club of Traverse City.

She follows in the formidable footsteps of long-time director, Dayna Valpey. Valpey has stepped down to focus on her career as Development Director of the Disability Network of Northern Michigan.

SCRAP TC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire creative reuse and environmentally sustainable behavior by providing educational programs and affordable materials to the community. SCRAP TC takes donations of clean, reusable materials that would normally wind up in the waste stream and makes them available to teachers, crafters, kids, families, artists – well, everyone. Arts and crafts materials, school and office supplies and a treasure trove of creative goodies are available for about 1/3 of the cost at retail.

Located at 821 Garfield Avenue in Traverse City, SCRAP TC has new retail store hours of Wednesdays – Fridays 12p-6p and Saturdays 10a-4p. SCRAP TC diverted 8,700 pounds of usable material from the waste stream in 2015.

For more information, see the website at scraptc.org.

Grand Traverse County Update

Crime Mapping Service

Grand Traverse County residents can track crime in their neighborhoods through a new crime mapping service through CrimeMapping.com, a national service that allows law enforcement agencies across the country to upload their crime data.

"Y Central" Fitness Center Open
A new fitness center at “Y Central” at the Civic Center opened on February 1. The fitness center and Easling Pool are both open under Grand Traverse Bay YMCA’s management.

Zika Virus

Information on the Zika Virus can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html/ or http://www.grandtraverse.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/806. 
 

Traverse City Area Public Schools Update

 TCAPS Preschool and Kindergarten Enrollment for 2016-17—Enroll Today!
TCAPS is currently enrolling students in its preschool and kindergarten programs. As a TCAPS preschooler, children will engage in Spanish and music instruction, arts and crafts, creative games, science and nature projects, computers, productive play, and rest. Children will also receive social, physical, emotional, and intellectual stimulation throughout their day. You can learn more by visiting: http://www.tcaps.net/programs/preschool/. TCAPS elementary schools are also hosting kindergarten enrollment meetings for families interested in learning more about our schools, programs and how to enroll. More information is available at: http://www.tcaps.net/programs/kindergarten/.

TCAPS Board of Education Expected to Make Decision about Low Enrollment Buildings—March 7^th

On January 25, 2016, the district made a recommendation to the TCAPS Board of Education to close three elementary school buildings with K-5 enrollment of less than 200 students. TCAPS has been exploring redirecting the overhead expenses of maintaining these buildings as a potential option to help preserve TCAPS’ comprehensive and award-winning academic and extracurricular student programming, while remaining financially responsible with the community’s investment in its schools. The groundwork to put together a recommendation and to gather community input began more than five months ago. The process included holding parent and community meetings at the three elementary schools to share information and answer questions, and involved the creation of a focus group at each of the three schools to identify possible options for TCAPS and the Board of Education to consider. The Board of Education is expected to take action on the district’s recommendation at its meeting on March 7, 2016 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Tompkins Boardman Administration Center (412 Webster St.) Learn more: http://www.tcaps.net/strategic-financial-planning/

West Senior High School Presents Once Upon a Mattress—March 4^th-13^th

Traverse City West Senior High School’s Music Department will present Once Upon a Mattress from March 4^th-13^th. The musical includes smart humor, amazing dancing, and songs you will leave the theater singing! Loosely based on Hans Christian Anderson's fairytale The Princess & the Pea, Once Upon A Mattress tells the story of a prince searching for his true love. Come see the show, and watch how this musical comedy unfolds like you never expected! Tickets are available now at www.mynorthtickets.com.

TCAPS Alumni Network Crosstown Campus 10K/5K Run—May 7^th

Mark your calendar for the 3rd annual TCAPS Alumni Association’s Crosstown Campus Run to be held on Saturday, May 7, 2016, at 8:00 a.m. This year's event includes a 10K run and a new a 5K run/walk. The 10K course will begin at Traverse City West Senior High School (5376 N. Long Lake Rd.) and the 5K run/walk will begin at TCAPS Montessori at Glenn Loomis (1009 Oak St.). The Crosstown Campus is a great opportunity for TCAPS alumni, staff, families and the community to come together to enjoy a fun event. You can participate as a runner, volunteer or event sponsor. All proceeds will benefit TCAPS’ Students in Transition Empowerment Program (STEP), which helps hundreds of area students each year who lack fixed, regular and adequate housing. Visit www.tcapsalumni.weebly.com to register, volunteer or review a course map.

 City of Traverse City Update

 Upcoming March 8, 2016 Election – Don’t forget, the Presidential Primary Election is scheduled for Tuesday, March 8^th. If you’re unsure of your polling location, visit www.michigan.gov/vote. Get out there and make your voice heard!

Employment Opportunities with the City! The City of Traverse City has the following employment opportunities available: Human Resources Specialist and Engineering Aide. Visit the City’s website at www.traversecitymi.gov/employment.asp for more details.
 

The City is continuing recruitment for various Traverse City Boards and Committees! Currently, the District Library Board, Election Commission and the Local Officers Compensation Commission have vacancies waiting to be filled. The Traverse City Light and Power Board and Joint Planning Commission have expiring terms, giving interested individuals a chance to interview for the positions.

Individuals who would like to learn more about these boards, or would like to apply should visit www.traversecitymi.gov/boards.asp or contact the City Clerk’s Office at 231-922-4480.

Elections Inspectors Needed! If you are interested in being a part of the Election process and working in a precinct on Election Day, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 231-922-4480. Election Inspectors typically work from 5:45 a.m. until roughly 10:00 p.m. on Election Day and are paid for their time.

Overnight Parking in Traverse City – As a reminder, folks should not park overnight on the streets of Traverse City during the winter months, through April 14. Those who do park on the streets overnight may be towed at their own expense. 

TC Chamber Happenings

Thursday, March 10:  Leadership at the Movies 7:30-9:00 am – Bijou by the Bay

Wednesday, March 16:  Small Business Celebration 2016 – Candidate’ Showcase 5:00-7 pm – NMC’s Hagerty Center

Thursday, March 17:  YP Morning Brew 8:00-9:00 am – Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce

Tuesday, March 22:  YP Volunteering at the State Theatre – 5:15-7:15 pm

February YP Blog, Updates, Stories, and Highlights.

            Happy February from the YP Blog and Blogger Adam Rhoades.  This is the first official blog I have ever written.  The blogs will have a fun new format with a slew of information and updates from TCAPS, Grand Traverse County, Garfield Township, and City of Traverse City.  We will also have guest bloggers, new business highlights as well as a ton of other random, funny, intriguing, and grasping information. 

            Here is a small tidbit about myself.  I grew up in Ottawa Lake, Michigan, which is 5 minutes from Toledo, Ohio.  I majored in Marketing and Professional Golf Management at Ferris State University.  I met my wife Kaitlin at Ferris State who grew up in Suttons Bay.  We spent 4 years away from Michigan in Austin, Texas but then moved back to Traverse City a few years ago.  I currently work at Traverse City State Bank and Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.  I still try to grow the game of golf teaching golf lessons at The Crown Golf Club when the ground is not snow covered.  I became involved in the Traverse City Young Professionals late summer last year, and it has been very rewarding meeting some amazing people.  To everyone who reads this, I highly recommend you get involved as much as you can especially if you plan on living in the area the rest of your life.  The network you grow personally and professionally is priceless. 

            I am not sure if there is a correct format for blogs, but I have decided that each week I will share something with you that is relevant to what is going on in the community.  And of course I would love feedback.  This month I wanted to focus on the importance and lack of affordable housing.

We all know that the big talk in the past 6 months or so has been the housing market in this area and the lack of affordable housing available especially to young professionals who are new to the area, have been here a while or even want to move back “home.”  This topic of conversation has affected my wife and me since we moved back to the area in 2012.  We were used to living in Austin, where you could find a great place to live at an affordable price that was not far from downtown.
 
When we first moved back we had to move in with her mom for 6 months then move in with her dad for another 5 months before we became very lucky and found a top floor of a triplex next to the airport.  We searched high and low for any housing options even living in Northport after fixing up an old farmhouse that her grandparents own and commuting to Traverse City to work.  After renting our small little place for over 2 years, we were needing a house with the hopes of expanding our family.  We searched and found a few places, made a few offers, but they all needed so much work that we would not be able to afford them.  We even placed an offer on a condo before that fell through the floor.  The whole process that should be a great step in life became deflating and hopeless. 

After looking through what must have been hundreds of listings and emails, my wife and I found a great place in a great location, which would put us closer to her parents.  The process to get the house that we are in was crazy.  We looked at the house at 7:00am, put in an offer 30 minutes later, and quickly found out there was another offer.  We were bummed of course because the house had not even been on the market for 24 hours.  We offered more than listing price knowing the place needed a good amount of work, but we were ready for the renovation project.  We wrote a letter, we emailed the listing agent, and even starting talking to the seller begging him to take our offer telling him our story and how his house fit us perfectly.  After putting in an offer beginning of August, we finally closed on the house October 5^th. 

We had high hopes of moving in after doing some small renovations to our new house, which was built in the mid 40’s, but that quickly changed when we started taking up the carpet and taking down the wall paper and walls.  We ended up renovating for 3 months nonstop with a ton of help from friends and family to officially move in December 31.  Needless to say, we have continued working on the inside of the house since we have moved in finishing projects and other cosmetic items.

I wanted to share my story with you to stress how important affordable housing is in any growing city.  There have been several instances in the past few years where we had intentions of leaving the area due to the lack of housing.  I believe the success to a strong economy, you need to offer affordable housing to professionals who are new to area and to also attract new professionals and potential business owners. 

There are several developments occurring in the area, but the one that has the most impact on the YP’s is the Pine Street building.  The huge benefit of the new Pine Street development is the amount of money it will bring to local businesses especially during the winter and spring months.  It also gives us the answer to the question of where is all the affordable housing the area so badly needs.  

Dr. Brandon Larabee

I would like to introduce to you Dr. Brandon Larabee, who is opening a brand new chiropractic practice here in Traverse City.  Here is a small write up about Dr. Brandon and his practice.  He is one of our new Young Professionals of Traverse City. 

 

Pathways Chiropractic is opening with a mission to empower others to achieve their optimal potential through chiropractic care. Owner Dr. Brandon Larabee believes that a well-functioning nervous system is necessary for living a happy, healthy life. He explains, “Chiropractic adjustments reduce stress in the spine. As a result, clear pathways of communication are restored between the body and the brain.”

A focus at Pathways Chiropractic is to make regular adjustments easily accessible. He says you can expect most visits to last about 10 minutes from door to door. What makes care here so quick? “We work with intent and efficiency, so that seeing a chiropractor fits easily into people’s lives rather than being a destination,” says Dr. Brandon. One aspect of Pathways Chiropractic’s system that makes it so efficient is an open adjusting area. Dr. Brandon chose this design so he can provide adjustments quickly without compromising the quality of his care. He says, “An open adjusting area also reduces anxiety for those receiving a first time adjustment, allows parents to keep a close eye on their children, and promotes camaraderie among members.” Dr. Brandon is confident that his office will foster a wellness-oriented community where people can find natural solutions for living better. 

 

The office is located in Suite C at 1001 Bay Street in Traverse City. The building is parallel to West Grandview Parkway about halfway between North Division Street and Tom’s Food Market, facing the base of West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay. Pathways Chiropractic will be opening on February 15, 2016. Until then, check them out at www.pathwaysofmi.com or call (231) 714-4112 to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Traverse City Area Public Schools Update

TCAPS Recommendation to Board of Education about Possible Building Closures —January 25^th On Monday, January 25, 2016, TCAPS will make a recommendation to the Board of Education about three elementary school buildings with K-5 enrollment of less than 200 students. TCAPS has been exploring redirecting the overhead expenses of maintaining these buildings as a potential option to help preserve TCAPS’ comprehensive and award-winning academic and extracurricular student programming, while keeping class sizes in check, providing adequate compensation for staff, and remaining financially responsible with the community’s investment in its schools. After the recommendation is presented, there will be opportunities for the Board to discuss the recommendation at committee and full board meetings during the month of February. The Board of Education is then expected to take action on the recommendation at their meeting on March 7, 2016. Learn more about the effort to examine buildings with less than 200 K-5 students here: www.tcaps.net/strategic-financial-planning.

Board of Education Coffee Conversation—January 28^th

On Thursday, January 28, 2016, the Traverse City Area Public Schools Board of Education will host its monthly Coffee Conversation from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Horizon Books (243 E. Front Street). The January Coffee Conversation topic is “Low Enrollment Buildings.” Time will also be allotted at the meeting for attendees wishing to discuss other topics of interest with board members. The next Coffee Conversation will be held on Thursday, February 25^th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Traverse City Central High School Presents Footloose

Traverse City Central High School will present Footloose the Musical beginning Thursday, January 28, 2016 and running through Sunday, February 7, 2016. Thursday-Saturday evening performances start at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday matinee performances begin at 3:00 p.m. at the newly renovated Central High School auditorium (1150 Milliken Dr.). General admission is $17, $12 for students, and $12 for seniors over 60. Tickets are available at: www.mynorthtickets.com.

2016 TCAPS Preschool Enrollment Fair – February 13, 2016 – 10 AM – 12:30 PM: Families wishing to enroll their child in preschool next year are invited to attend TCAPS’ preschool enrollment fair to learn more about TCAPS preschool programs, tour a classroom and/or complete the registration process. The fair will be held at Eastern Elementary School (1600 Eastern Ave.). For more information, please call 231.933.1759 or visit: http://www.tcaps.net/programs/preschool. 

Traverse City Central High School Hall of Fame Seeks Nominations for 2016 Induction Class

Nominations are being accepted for the Traverse City Central High School Hall of Fame’s 2016 induction class. The nominator is required to provide a completed nomination form, photo of the candidate, and three letters of support for the candidate. Nominations must be received at the TC Central principal’s office by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016. Hall of Fame application: http://tinyurl.com/CHSHallofFame.

Grand Traverse County Update

January 2016

Easling Pool Open

Easling Pool at the Civic Center Park is open under Grand Traverse Bay YMCA’s management. “Y Central” at the Civic Center will feature a fitness facility in the former meeting room. For more information, contact the YMCA at 231-486-6357. 

Camping Reservations

Reservations for camping on Power Island-Bassett Island this summer are being taken by the Parks and Recreation Department. The number of campsites have increased from four to ten, with five sites on Bassett Island and five on Power Island. Call 231-922-4818 or visit http://www.grandtraverse.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Power-Island-Bassett-Island-8.

Winter Parking Ordinance

The Winter Parking Ordinance prohibiting the parking of motor vehicles on public roadways and shoulders of roads in Grand Traverse County from December 1 to March 31 between the hours of 12:00 a.m. (midnight) and 8:00 a.m. and during snow emergencies is in effect. Violators are subject to fine plus prosecution costs.

Garfield Township Update

·         Personal Property Exemption affidavits are due February 10, 2016 for any business with less than $80,000 true cash value of personal property. You can find the form 5076 at your local Assessing Department.

·         Planet Fitness has begun the necessary steps to ensure a March 2016 opening. You can obtain a membership starting February 3rd right next to Aldi's.

·         Jimmy Johns has begun the process to open in part of the building that now houses Family Video on South Airport.

·         Lucky's will be submitting plans to the Planning Department, but we have no time frame on their opening.

·         Dick's Sporting Goods are in the process of getting building and zoning permits but have not been approved yet.

·         Fit Body Boot Camp will be going into the old Bedroom Company building on Division within the next three months.

·         Boardman Lake revamp is complete as well as the new Brookside Commons. There will be a Grand Opening on 1/29/16 starting at 11am at Boardman Lake and 12:30 at Brookside Commons. These are affordable, energy efficient, workforce housing close to town! Go take a look and refer new TC residents!

·         We just closed on additional parkland on Keystone Road to become part of the BVNP, and provide access to the land we own on the east side of the river. We just finished a conceptual park plan on how to develop this land, and will implement pieces of that as budget allows. Planned improvements include covered picnic pavilions, more nature trails, playgrounds, dog park, a bridge to connect both sides of the park across the river, and maybe  a ropes course, zip line and/or 4-season toboggan run.

·         Also in the BVNP, we just received another Trust Fund grant to revamp the area near the Boardman YMCA (which we own), including additional parking, a small boat (kayak/canoe) turnaround, float-on kayak launch, vault toilets and changing area and reconstruction of the pickleball courts.

·         We completed a concept park plan for the trailhead area to the Miller Creek Nature Preserve near Aldi. Not a lot of people know about this so the plan is intended to improve awareness and draw people in. This one includes seating areas, berming and landscaping to buffer South Airport traffic, maybe a hill slide and a fishing pond.

·         Buffalo Ridge Trail should (finally) be under construction in the spring. Bids are due on Thursday (we rebid it due to high bid responses to the first bid).

·         Tree cutting at the Commons has started and the park will be closed while they are in there. We are implementing a hazardous tree removal plan to get rid of fall hazards. Unfortunately nearly 500 trees have to go.

If you are interested in being appointed to a Garfield Township Board Committee please send a letter of interest to Judy at jbattle@garfield-twp.com

City of Traverse City Update

The City is continuing recruitment for various Traverse City Boards and Committees! Currently, the Election Commission and the Local Officers Compensation Commission have vacancies waiting to be filled. The Traverse City Light and Power Board and Joint Planning Commission have expiring terms, giving interested individuals a chance to interview for the positions.   Individuals who would like to learn more about these boards, or would like to apply should visit www.traversecitymi.gov/boards.asp or contact the City Clerk’s Office at 231-922-4480.

Elections Inspectors Needed! If you are interested in being a part of the Election process and working in a precinct on Election Day, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 231-922-4480. Election Inspectors typically work from 5:45 a.m. until roughly 10:00 p.m. on Election Day and are paid for their time.

Employment Opportunities with the City! The City of Traverse City has the following employment opportunities available: Traverse City Police Patrol and Vehicle Equipment Technician (Mechanic). Visit the City’s website at www.traversecitymi.gov/employment.asp for more details.

Input Needed – Parks & Recreation Master Plan – The Parks and Recreation Commission and staff has completed the draft Recreation Plan for 2016 – 2021.  This plan will be the basis for possible improvements to parks and programs and for grant applications during the five year time period.  The plan will be available for viewing until February 4, 2016.  Comments can be directed to the Parks and Recreation Office at 625 Woodmere Avenue during the comment period.  A copy of the plan can be found at www.traversecitymi.gov/parksplan.asp.

Overnight Parking in Traverse City – As a reminder, folks should not park overnight on the streets of Traverse City during the winter months, through April 14. Those who do park on the streets overnight may be towed at their own expense. 

TC Chamber Happenings

February 3 – YP Lunch & Learn (West Bay Beach) 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

February 17 – Business After Hours (Visions at CenterPointe) 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

February 18 – YP Morning Brew (Chamber of Commerce) 8-9 a.m.

February 23 – YP Volunteering at the State Theatre 5:15-7:15 p.m.

March 10 – Leadership at the Movie

For more fun and detailed information visit the chamber website:  tcchamber.org

Traverse City Offers Young Professionals and Families a Great Community with Great Schools

Greetings, readers! We're closing in on the holiday season, which means the snow and cold are on their way. As we wrap up a fantastic Autumn here in northern Michigan we're sharing a guest blog post today from Christine Guitar, Director of Marketing and Communications at Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). Whether you're moving to Traverse City or a longtime resident, rest assured: the public schooling system in Traverse City is one of the best around! Read on for more details about why our region is a great place to start or grow a family.

There are so many things that make Traverse City great. The bay views, the food scene, the cultural and arts opportunities. There is also another fundamental piece of the puzzle: our schools. Great schools ensure that the community has the foundation it needs to be great now and into the future.

Whether parents want their child to go to one of the only free, public school Montessori programs in the state, gain hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering and math—or STEM—education, or learn Mandarin Chinese, Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) offers its roughly 10,000 students and their families those opportunities and so much more.

Students can focus on career technical training, like culinary arts or construction trades, through our partnership with the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District. Students can also earn college credit before they receive their high school diploma through Advanced Placement courses. Early College and Dual Enrollment opportunities are offered in collaboration with Northwestern Michigan College (saving our community’s parents an estimated $2 million dollars annually!).

What is incredible is that TCAPS offers all of these opportunities while receiving some of the lowest per pupil funding in the state. Receiving thousands of dollars less per student is certainly no reason to celebrate, but what should be a reason for the community to cheer is that even in the face of an inequitable funding distribution, TCAPS ranks just as highly.

For the 5th year in a row, TC Central High School and TC West Senior High School have been named among America’s “Most Challenging High Schools” by The Washington Post. Only 11% of the approximately 22,000 U.S. public high schools earned placement on the list. Both schools have also been ranked for the last 4 years among the “Top 50 Best High Schools” in the state by U.S. News and World Report. Out of the 849 public, charter and magnet schools in Michigan that were ranked, TC West Senior High School ranked #16 on the 2015 list…Grosse Pointe South, which receives $2,500 more per student ranked #17.

Couple TCAPS’ low state funding with a low local millage rate of 3.1 percent (the state average is 5.1), and it is clear that families in Traverse City and the entire community get a real return on their investment in education.

While young professionals may move to Traverse City hoping to build their careers and enjoy the great amenities that the area offers, they can stay and raise a family knowing that the educational opportunities offered are top notch.

Affordable Housing in Traverse City: Building Up, Not Out

Greetings, YPs! we have a special blog post from former YP Chairman Warren Call. Affordable housing and multi-story buildings in downtown Traverse City are all over the news in our town right now, and Warren is sharing his opinion about these issues on the blog today. Read on for his support of higher density housing as a counterattack to urban sprawl in our region. 

Photo courtesy of The State Theatre

Taller buildings downtown or strip malls and sprawl – which type of development is the bigger threat to our unique Northern Michigan character? Would eight or nine-story buildings downtown ruin Traverse City? These important questions are being debated as the Grand Traverse Region grows (and development pressures increase). These decisions will greatly impact the city and region the Traverse City Young Professionals call home – and I think it’s time we made our opinions heard. I know where I sit; I like the idea of a dynamic downtown and tall buildings do not bother me. I am afraid of sprawl that engulfs areas where farms, forests and fields used to be.

Taller buildings, higher density, and Affordable Housing Developments are the way forward for Traverse City and the Grand Traverse Region. Traverse City zoning and planning should allow and encourage taller structures that permit developers to “build up” using existing vacant or underused parcels in the city. Downtown zoning should create higher density in-line with land use regulations and include development incentives and public investment. Planning and zoning that allow for downtown development is necessary to prevent sprawl and preserve our existing agricultural, forest and rural land. The benefits are clear:

Downtown development preserves our unique character
Suburban sprawl is the real threat to our beautiful and scenic region. The only way to preserve our unique regional and city character is to concentrate new development in our existing city center. Downtown housing and development reduces and prevents sprawl. Regulation that allows for taller buildings in the city center helps to preserve our scenic agricultural, forest, and rural areas.

Downtown Development is the culmination of decades of thorough and thoughtful planning
Locating new building and development within our existing urban areas is one of the key findings from decades of master planning and zoning improvements. Higher density development is part of the Traverse City and Grand Traverse Master Plan and current city zoning supports higher density building with a diverse mix of housing options and uses. Higher density downtown development is supported by the findings of long-term planning; the New Designs for Growth and the Grand Vision planning processes (75% of Grand Vision respondents said new growth should occur in existing developed areas). Downtown development helps to address a major jobs/housing imbalance in our region's largest employment hub.

Downtown Development is the key economic driver for our region
Higher density housing can help to create a "full-time" downtown: a place with retail, entertainment, and office activity that is self-sustaining. Downtown residents form a built-in market for downtown retailers and entertainment, thus reinforcing investments already made in our public spaces, parks, museums, theaters, and existing infrastructure. Developing downtown housing improves our region’s employment options by attracting a mix of knowledge workers, entrepreneurs and professionals. Downtown housing improves the city's tax base while making the highest and best use of our existing vacant and underused city parcels. A vibrant, dynamic, walkable downtown that offers a mix of housing, retail, office, recreational, and entertainment options appeals to people of all ages; young professionals, baby boomers, young families, the elderly, and students.

The City Commission, Planning Commission and City zoning regulations should allow and encourage taller buildings, higher density, and affordable housing development. These features will preserve our unique local character, address our housing and planning needs, and drive future economic success in our region.

SUP TCMI!

Happy summer, everyone! Here's hoping you're all out enjoying the hey-day of August here in northern Michigan. It's clear that YPs John and Emily Petrovich (both of NewEra Social Marketing) are making the most of these warm, sunny days by enjoying their time on stand-up paddleboards out on the water. Check out John's article for more on this great sport!

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a peaceful way to get out and enjoy our local waters without noisy motors. It can be a relaxing session or a more intense work-out experience – it’s really whatever you want to make it!

A paddleboard allows you to float right on top of the water and can take you places that no boat can go. The views of underwater roots and trees through our crystal clear local waters make you feel like you’re on the Pirates of the Caribbean movie set. During SUP adventures, we’ve explored shipwrecks, paddled among flocks of rarely-seen birds hanging out in rivers and streams as a stop along their migration paths, and even performed a rescue for a small dog that was tangled in a river marsh area. For awesome photos and videos of paddling local shipwrecks, check out Lena Olmsted’s Instagram account and this Instagram video of one of our recent discoveries in Torch Lake.

TC and the surrounding areas are an “unsalted paddle paradise.” With sandy lake beds, crystal clear waters and breathtaking shore line views, our area is truly unique here in the great Mitten state. If only northern Michigan summers were never ending! But I guess this is what we brave the winters for – and it makes summertime that much sweeter.

Travel West from TC on the beautiful M-22 route into Empire, paddle out of Empire Beach on Lake Michigan, and head south for jaw dropping views of the dunes or north to check out the pristine beach at North Bar Lake. If conditions on the big lake aren’t ideal, simply walk across the parking lot to paddle the smaller, warmer waters of South Bar Lake, or head toward Glen Arbor and check out Little and Big Glen Lake.

Travel East from TC and you'll find yourself surrounded by the teal blue waters of Torch and Elk Lake. There are numerous launch points but the 'Kayak' launch just south of the bridge in Elk Rapids is always a favorite. Paddling through the shallow waters of Elk River, you'll be awestruck by the natural beauty that surrounds you. Plus, if you feel like enjoying a pure northern Michigan sunset, you can easily pluck your board out of the water, head down the street and drop right into East Bay for a sunset paddle that never disappoints!

There are a number of local places to get your SUP gear. Wet Mitten Surf Shop and 231 Outfitters are two great brick-and-mortar SUP stores in Traverse City and you can find a handful of other dealers in the area, too. Craigslist is a helpful source for finding an affordable SUP board, both new and used. We have had our SUP ATX paddleboards for years and we love them! The company recently featured SUP’ing in the northern Michigan area in their Urban Paddle Guide with SUP Magazine. Check it out: Traverse City, MI: Urban Paddle Guide

There are also many local paddleboarding groups on Facebook that you can get involved with, both right in Traverse City and in the surrounding areas, like Elk Rapids. Some are ladies-only, some are co-ed, and all are a guaranteed opportunity to connect with both nature and fellow nature-lovers on the water.

We still have lots of summer left. Get out there and enjoy every last minute!

Spotify Playlist: TCYP's Sunny Days and Starry Nights Summer Playlist

By Emily Petrovich of NewEra Social Marketing

The blossoms! The blue water! The sunny days! The starry skies!

Northern Michigan is a truly beautiful place to enjoy the springtime. This year’s weather seems to be kinder than in the past few years and we’ve been able to enjoy spring rain showers mixed with warm, sunny days… and it seems the plant life is enjoying, too! The blossoms are beautiful, grass is growing like crazy, Morel mushroom hunting is in full swing, and gardens are happily sprouting.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if all work places offered recess so we could all go play outside? Just like when we were kids! The fresh spring air is both spicy and sweet – a mix of trees and blooms plus grills and campfires – and its good for the soul.

Alas, we know there are those who stare longingly out their work place windows as the warm season begins and it becomes harder to stay inside and work the day away without wanting to get outside and enjoy the beauty of our TC area. We hope our brand new (and extra long!) mixtape playlist, Sunny Days & Starry Nights, will put a happy spin on your work days and take you right through to happy hours on outdoor patios, al fresco dinners, drives with the windows down, and summer campfires!

This feel-good mix has something for everyone, from brand new jams by Zac Brown Band and Mumford & Sons to fun cover songs like Passion Pit’s version of "Dreams" to awesome new sounds from Whilk & Misky and Jasia. We had to add Joshua Davis’ "The Workingman’s Hymn," who is back in TC after his awesome run on The Voice, and an all-time personal favorite, Sufjan Stevens’ "Say Yes! To M!ch!igan!" from his swell Michigan album.

Check out our Sunny Days & Starry Nights playlist on Spotify.
Any songs you would add? Let us know in the comments!