Get Outside!!!!

Hello to my blog readers.  I want to apologize for not having a blog out for July, but hey it is summer and a crazy busy time.  So my people, this will be a short blog with updates and challenges to get you out and about playing fudgie or getting in the water or camping or hiking or whatever floats your boat. 

As you all know, we have a few weeks of summer left before the leaves change, and the grapes get harvested to make the great up north wine we are lucky enough to drink. 

With that said, I challenge everyone to put the phones down, call a sitter, and go enjoy the rest of August doing a ton of fun things.  Between the YPs and MyNorth.com (below), you will have the hook-up on all fun activities, adventures, and ideas.

1)  Hike the Treat Farm Trail in Empire.  It may seem like a long drive, but I promise you once you get there and walk through the woods, there is a great opening where the old Treat Farm sits and past the farm you can hike all over the place.  There are trails everywhere.  It brings you to a bluff right above Lake Michigan and if you are daring enough you can slowly scale down the bluff and relax on the rocky beach where you will not see a soul.

2)  Drive to Northport in the morning if possible on Friday; grab a cinnamon twist from Barb's Bakery and head down to the marina for the Farmer's Market where the fresh produce and goodies are incredible.  Then take a short drive to Peterson Park and walk down the 115 steps to Lake Michigan and hunt for rocks or Petoskey Stones.

3)  Rent a kayak, canoe or take your own and go down the Crystal River in Glen Arbor.  It is absolutely beautiful and calming down the river.  Once completed, head into downtown Glen Arbor, grab a burger at Boone Docks or Art's Tavern. 

4)  Head to Old Mission Peninsula Lighthouse and hike around all the trails that surround it.  You may run into a few out of towners, but to be out there is awesome.  You will for sure work up at appetite for some great food and of course wine, so head to Jolly Pumpkin for some great food and hit a few wineries on the way home. 

I challenge everyone that reads this blog to do at least 1 of the actives above if not all of them.  If you are a master and do all of them and need more, don't you worry.  Craving more ideas...? Check out our new blog partner, MyNorth, for more ideas on how to enhance your Northern Michigan experience!

AUGUST MYNORTH.COM FEATURE: Our Friends at MyNorth.com, an awesome resource for local events, concerts, events and food, wrote an incredible story on what to do in Northern Michigan to savor the last bit of summer in August.  You should check it out as well as their website, which has a slew of other information.     10 Things to Do in Northern Michigan in August

August Updates

Grand Traverse County

"Get Out and Play" Crowdfunding Campaign Limited time remains in the on-line crowdfunding campaign for a new playground – the Get Out and Play Project – at Grand Traverse County’s Civic Center Park. If, by August 31, the community has pledged $50,000 total toward the "Get Out and Play" project, then the MEDC and MSHDA will match that amount with a $50,000 grant.

For more information about the Get Out and Play Civic Center playground project, to view the design, and to donate, visit: http://www.patronicity.com/getoutandplayproject.

TCAPS

Traverse Heights Elementary School Receives School Supply Donations from Newlyweds

 

 Traverse City Area Public Schools’ Traverse Heights Elementary School received a gift of school supplies from a unique donor, newlyweds. Kristy (VerSnyder) Tomczak and Vince Tomczak requested that guests at their July 2, 2016, wedding bring school supplies in lieu of traditional gifts. The Tomczaks provided attendees with a wish list created by staff at Traverse Heights Elementary School and their guests, in turn, donated an overwhelming amount of school supplies. Donations included backpacks, notebooks, pencils, erasers, crayons, rulers, scissors, books, clothes, shoes, and $600 in gift cards. “Vince and I decided that we wanted to put the good will of those who wished to help us celebrate our wedding day with presents to the best use possible,” said Kristy Tomczak. “We felt that the students at Traverse Heights Elementary would be a wonderful benefactor of our guest’s generosity, and our friends and family agreed. We received many comments that this was the most meaningful wedding gift they ever bought.”

 TCAPS’ NWEA Scores Show High Student Proficiency and Strong Growth

Traverse City Area Public Schools’ scores on the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) assessment during the 2015-16 school indicate that TCAPS students are performing well above the national norm, scoring between the 60^th and 90^th percentile in reading and math across all grade levels assessed, kindergarten through 9^th grade. In addition, students demonstrated growth well above the 50^th percentile mark in kindergarten through 8^th grade, outpacing the growth norms in the country. NWEA is a valuable tool that provides teachers with detailed and immediate information regarding student progress and understanding of content. The assessment adjusts to each student’s ability level and provides a growth target based on the individual student. The data allows teachers, students, and parents to monitor growth, deliver appropriate and targeted instruction, and celebrate academic successes.

TCAPS’ Music Program to Perform at Premier State Music Event

The TCAPS K-12 Music Department has been selected to present the opening night concert at the 2017 Michigan Music Conference on Thursday, January 19, 2017, at DeVos Hall in Grand Rapids. More than 500 5^th through 12^th graders are expected to perform at the event. TCAPS completed an extensive application process that included providing written documentation describing the district’s music curriculum and audio recordings of each of the secondary ensembles from the 2015-16 school year and two previous school years. The selection process stipulated the selected school district present elementary through high school musical performances that would showcase the entire music curriculum. TCAPS was last featured in 2005 at the 60^th Annual Midwestern Music Conference performed at the Hill Auditorium at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. More information about the Michigan Music Conference: www.michiganmusicconference.org.

Free TCAPS Preschool Option Available Through Great Start Readiness Program

Qualifying families can participate in a free, full-day preschool program through the Great Start Readiness Program. The program is offered Monday through Thursday (no classes on Friday) at Blair Elementary School, Central Grade School, Cherry Knoll Elementary School, Courtade Elementary School, Long Lake Elementary School and Traverse Heights Elementary School.  If interested, please contact the Northwest Community Action Agency at 231-346-2116 to apply (eligibility determined at time of application).

 TCAPS Board Coffee Conversation—August 25^th
The TCAPS Board of Education will host its monthly Coffee Conversation on Thursday, August 25^th, at Horizon Books in downtown Traverse City from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Attendees have the opportunity to discuss any topic of interest with a TCAPS board member at the meeting.

TCAPS Fall High School Sports Tryouts and Practice Begin in August  

Fall high school sports at Traverse City Central High School and Traverse City West Senior High School begin conducting tryouts and practicing the week of August 8^th. Fall sports include: cheer/dance, boys' and girls' cross-country, equestrian, football, girls' golf, boys' soccer, girls' swimming, boys' tennis and volleyball. All athletes must have a sports physical dated on or after April 15, 2016, on file with the athletic office prior to trying out for any high school sports. More information: http://www.tcaps.net/programs/highschools/
 

City of Traverse City Update

New Resident Guide to City Services – The City has recently published a guide for various city services. This guide is not only helpful for all newcomers, but to longtime residents as well. Hard copies of this guide can be picked up at the Governmental Center or a digital version can be viewed at www.traversecitymi.gov.

 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.

 Seeking Volunteers! The City is currently looking for volunteers to serve on various boards and committees. If you are interested in becoming involved with your local government, visit www.traversecitymi.gov/boards.asp.

 Construction Season – keep a look out! The City has various construction projects taking place; please use caution when driving through these areas. For up to date information on construction projects and road project, visit our website at www.traversecitymi.gov and check the City News & Highlights section.

 

What To Do When That 5:00 Work Bell Sounds

Happy June to all my homies and fun and crazy YP's that read the blog to begin our summer and crazy traffic time of the year.  My advice is it's going to take you 30 minutes to get anywhere in town and out of town as well, but it is always great to see businesses busy, the streets with smiling faces, and of course getting that summer tan.  Speaking of summer tan, I have to say I am very blessed to have Italian skin, which tans to perfection.  But we all love a tan and to be outside in the summer sun, so the question is what is there to do after that 5:00 or 6:00 bell rings?  We all sprint out of work to freedom for a few hours before bed looking for something to do in order to enjoy our limited summer nights.  Well the amazing Marketing Committee as well as some great Facebook suggestions has given some fun ideas for after work hours.  We all want to be outside as much as possible, especially if we work inside all day looking out at the sunshine and the bay.  

Fun Idea #1:  Get your Bike On!!!  Who does not love a great bike ride on the TART Trail, which stretches some 18 miles from North of Suttons Bay to basically Acme passing Restaurants, Ice Cream Shops, Hidden Wilderness and Streams, and of course the backcountry.  We are in the middle of Smart Commute Week put on by the TART Trail System (http://traversetrails.org/event/smart-commute-week-2016/.)  What a great way to be outside, save money and get a free breakfast by biking to work.  The TART Trail is a great gem we have in our region that can be used for biking, walking, running, rollerblading or even walking the dogs. It may also be quicker to ride the bike to work instead of being in traffic in your car.

Fun Idea #2:  Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Beach Boot Camp.  We have several places in the area that sell and rent kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to get us on the water.  Might I say, it’s would be a great first date or even a 75th date (if you are married) to have dinner with that someone special in Kayaks watching the sun go down.  Yen Yoga does paddle board yoga in the bay (http://yenyogafitness.com/classes/stand-up-paddleboard-yoga/.)  I do not know about you but 5 seconds doing yoga on a paddle board in the bay = Adam falling off and practicing swim yoga for the rest of the class.  I have seen people in East Bay before, and it does look pretty sweet.  Definitely worth the try just to say you have done it. If you are really into getting your workout in on the beach then look no further then Fit 4 You's Beach Boot Camp. What a great way to get a work out in while being on the beach getting a tan at the same time (http://www.fitforyou.info/specials-events.)

Fun Idea #3:  Camping on a Beach or Camping Anywhere.  Michigan is one of the best states to go on a weekend camping trip because the nights usually cool down, which makes great sleeping weather outside.  We have so many campsites within 1 hour of Traverse City.  If you wanted to drive a little farther, head up to the UP and camp where you can be in several different areas that include a ton of waterfalls.  Even camping on a beach for a night or 2 or even in the backyard with your children, someone special, or by yourself to just enjoy our wonderful summer nights.  Nothing beats being outside after work, grilling up some burgers, while being around a bonfire watching the night roll in.  

Fun Idea#4:  Old School Movie Watching!!  SAY WHAT!!!!  If you have not been to the Cherry Bowl Drive In, STOP reading this blog and go right now.  Just a short drive away to Honor, it is a great place for the family, for a romantic date, or just to watch some great movies.  However, you will need caffeine since the second movie may end around 2am, but trust me well worth it for sure.  The food, popcorn, and being able to sit in the back of the truck or suv with pillows and blankets makes it feel so cozy and comfy.  It is a great way to spend a Friday night or Saturday night.  

Fun Idea #5-10:  Food Trucks, Hiking, Wineries, Breweries, Peterson Park/Christmas Cove.  In the last few years, TC has become a Food Truck Sanctuary with trucks coming from all over the place.  We have 2 great spots in town, The Little Fleet and the new spot The Lot (http://eatdrinktc.com/eat/food-trucks/).  Best part about food truck lots, there is no dress code so you can for sure bike your way to both places and enjoy a great meal and a local brew.  Make sure you hit up both places a few times before they head south for the winter with the birds.  

Northern Michigan has some incredible hiking destinations.  Sleeping Bear Dunes in Glen Arbor has more trails than people in the US.  You can get lost for hours on their beautiful Sand Dunes for a great hike.  There are several trails in Empire, Glen Arbor, and also spread around the outskirts of Traverse City.  If you have a favorite trail or spot, please let me know ASAP so I can check it out.

As most of us know, we may have a few wine spots and brew joints in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County.  What a great way to be outside right after work enjoying a locally grown and served beverage.  Most of these places have outdoor seating as well as a food menu.  The advantage of being a local is we can hit these places up after work and not on the weekend when they are just overwhelmed with Fudgies.  So grab a co-worker and a friend and visit at least 3 wineries and breweries before the summer ends and get to know the people behind the scenes.  

Peterson Park and Chrismas Cove are 2 hidden gems in Northport, which is only about 45 minutes north of Traverse City.  Heading out to these to special places after work is priceless.  Peterson Park sits above Lake Michigan that has over 100 steps down to the amazing rock filled beach.  This is one of the best places to see a sunset ever. Christmas Cove is a short drive north of Peterson Park that has a great beach to relax on or hunt for Petoskey Stones.  After you visit one or both places, head into Northport to dine, drink, relax, or even walk the marina.  I promise you, it will be a great time for sure.  

Well friends there are a few ideas and things to do after that work bell rings at the end of the day.  I challenge all of you to get outdoors more, and play fudgie.  Just because we live here does not mean we have to work then go right home to hide from everyone who comes up here to our little paradise.  Who knows, you may even see a famous person out and about.  Send me any of your amazing pictures from your adventures, and let me know any places or activities that I need to do. You can always email me at adamr@tcsb.com with pictures, comments, concerns or ideas.

JUNE New Business Focus – All about getting the Hair done or redone at The Hair Code Salon!

After years of creative experience in the hair styling industry and months of planning, The Hair Code Salon in Traverse City's Slabtown opened its doors earlier this year.

“We are excited to bring classic styles along with modern trends and cuts to our clientele,” says owner and head stylist Chad Smarsty.  “Coming to the salon will offer a great experience while you're here, but will also offer tips on how to maintain your look every day.” Chad and his wife, Sally Smarsty, are working together to bring this new business venture to life.

Sally says The Hair Code Salon specializes in both men's and women's services. “What's great about the Hair Code is it offers an experience. It's a place where a woman can come and get the latest color techniques and can also send her husband or son for a fade or beard trim. Chad keeps up to date on his craft, passion and dedication for hair shows with each client that sits in his chair.”

The Hair Code Salon offers full color services- balayage, ombre, highlights and more, as well as color corrections. Haircuts and straightening treatments are also available. The salon offers men's fades, cuts, beard trims and line ups.

You can find the salon at 901 W Front St Suite B Studio #5. It is located in the iStudios behind Impres Salon.

The Hair Code Salon is open for appointments Tuesday-Saturday from 9am-6pm, with later appointments available on Wednesdays. For more information on The Hair Code Salon, visit thehaircodesalon.com or call 231-620-9251. 

Sally Smarsty, Owner

Chad Smarsty, Owner

The Hair Code Salon

info@thehaircodesalon.com

Did Someone Say Open House?

-Open House to be held at The New Pathways Chiropractic in Traverse City overlooking beautiful West Bay.  Get to know Dr. Larabee and tour the office in from 9am to 11 am on

Saturday, June 25th at the office on Bay Street in Traverse City.  Dr. Brandon Larabee invites local residents and businesses to stop by, tour the office, and learn more about the services available at Pathways Chiropractic. Light refreshments will be provided. Attendees will have the opportunity to enter a drawing to win prizes. Families are encouraged to attend and attendees are welcome to bring guests! Pathways Chiropractic (www.pathwaysofmi.com) is parallel to West Grandview Parkway about halfway between North Division Street and Tom’s Food Market, facing West Grand Traverse Bay (1001 Bay St. Suite C, Traverse City, MI 49684). Free parking is available to the side and in front of the building. For more information, please contact Dr. Larabee: (231) 714-4112 or brandon@pathwaysofmi.com.

Updates

Traverse City Young Professionals Events in June
-Monthly Meeting/Morning Brew with Guest Tom Menzel speaking about the middle class disappearing. - June 16 at 8:00am
-Volunteering at the State Theatre and receive free movie tickets and of course popcorn. - June 28 from 5:15 to 7:15 (something fun to do after work :)

Grand Traverse County Update

HHW Collection The next Household Hazardous Waste collection is Thursday, June 23.  Acceptable materials include paint, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, pesticides, and other hazardous materials.  Appointments can be made online at www.recyclesmart.info or by calling the RecycleSmart hotline at (231) 941-5555.

City of Traverse City Update

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.

Seeking Volunteers! The City is currently looking for volunteers to serve on various boards and committees. If you are interested in becoming involved with your local government, visit www.traversecitymi.gov/boards.asp.

Construction Season – keep a look out! The City has begun its season of construction. Please use caution when driving through these areas. For up to date information on construction projects and road project, visit our website at www.traversecitymi.gov and check the City News & Highlights section.

Envision 8th Street - Be a part of the future by getting involved in the 8th Street Planning and Design Charrette.  This charrette is intended to plan and design not only the street, but include surrounding land uses to develop comprehensive approach for the entire corridor. Contact the City Planning Department at 231-922-4778 for more details or visit www.envision8th.org.  

AGRICULTURE, FARMERS MARKETS, CHICKENS, PINK ANCHOR, AND UPDATES -- YAY FOR MAY

Just like that May is here with the trees blooming, the grass growing and getting much closer to planting that amazing garden to grow the best vegetables in the state.  I personally love a garden because I only have to go to my backyard to go shopping instead of throwing elbows at Meijer.  One of the best highlights Northern Michigan has is its love and environment for Agriculture.  This is some of the best Agriculture in the land.  I am happy I get the chance in this blog to not only give updates but in this edition talk about Agriculture in Northern Michigan.

 

The first topic of Agriculture that comes to mind in the month of May is FARMERS MARKETS.  We have some amazing markets in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County that are a must to go see, buy, visit, and just walk around and meet the local farmers.  You will find a little bit of everything from honey to asparagus to lavender and of course home baked goodies.  Farmers markets are also a great place to find specialty items such as Gluten Free products, all natural soaps, and grass fed beef.  The best part is it all takes place outside and not in some stuffy grocery store with the AC blasting in your face.  Just think when you make a purchase at a farmers market, you are supporting local farmers, bakers, and growers.  What a great way to support our small wonderful community.  You may spend a dollar or 2 extra as opposed to going to Meijer, but everything is local and grown locally.  I also love knowing where my food came from and getting to chat with the famers is always a hoot and an adventure because they all love what they do.  

 

The first market I would like to highlight takes place in the parking lot across the street from the Bijou, which is known as the Sarah Hardy Farmers Market.  The Sarah Hardy Farmers Market is officially the largest grower’s only market in the state of Michigan.  Over 115 vendors are represented throughout the season.  It is one of the top 3 largest markets in the state.  This market is so good that starting in June it is twice a week.  The days you need to remember are Saturdays from 7:30am to 12:00pm and Wednesdays from 8am to 12am.  This market is best visited early in the morning when the goods are fresh and plentiful because as we know in Northern Michigan, our population grows significantly in the summer months.  

 

The second market takes place all over Leelanau County, which I believe is pretty nifty because it will make you take a day trip to go to some of these markets, which means us locals can play fudgy for a day.  These markets are different in each little city because you will see different vendors, farmers, growers, and bakers.  If you have a Tuesday free for example, head to Glen Arbor for the Farmer Market, then head to Sleeping Bear Dunes for the dune climb and Pyramid Point for the best view EVER, then head back to Boonedocks or Arts for a late lunch or early dinner and then head for home.  I do not know about you, but that sounds pretty good to me.  Here is the list of cities the Leelanau Farmers Market visit in 2016.  The time for all the markets is 9am to 1pm with the exception of Cedar.  

 

Suttons Bay:  Saturdays - May 7th to October 29

Empire:  Saturdays - June 18 to September 10

Lake Leelanau:  Sundays - June 12 to September 4

Glen Arbor:  Tuesdays - June 14 to September 6

Leland:  Thursdays - June 16 to September 1

Northport:  Fridays - June 3 to September 9

Cedar:  Fridays - June 17 to September 9 (3pm to 7pm)

            The second topic of Agriculture that I wanted to throw at you is chickens and eggs.  The reason I bring this topic up is for a few reasons.  I just happened to have 16 baby chicks in a horse watering aluminum trough in my house.  My wife decided she wanted chickens, but both of us never realized how much work they actually are.  You have to keep them extremely warm until they develop their feathers before they can get shipped outside to a chicken coop that my friend and I have been constructing, which has been the fun part for me.  It is never a bad thing to have a reason to build something and use power tools.  Also, it seems like everywhere I drive around Leelanau County, you either see chickens by the road pecking away at the ground or a sign that says farm fresh eggs, which is the main reason we decided to get chickens.  It is all about those farm fresh eggs because knowing where your food comes from is important.  My advice to all you chicken/farm fresh eggs lovers, is do not be afraid to try something like raising chickens one time.  Even if you live in the city, you are able to have up to 6 chickens. 

 

I have a few challenges for everyone that reads this blog.  I challenge you to go 2 at least 4 different farmers markets around the area.  I also challenge you to stop at 4 or more fruit stands to support our local farmers.  Another challenge I have for you is to grow your own vegetables, start your own garden or plant fruit trees or plants.  If you have a garden or grow vegetables or plants, please, please, please, take pictures and email them to me so when harvest time rolls around, I can make a huge post with tons of fun pictures.  Get creative and have fun being outdoors using the earth in a way many are not able to.  If you live in an apartment, get pots or buckets and plant tomatoes and peppers.  My final challenge consists of finding a YOU PICK farm where you can go and pick cherries, blueberries, raspberries or any other product you can pick up here.  It is so rewarding to harvest what you are going to eat.  I can promise you that walking in the middle of a cherry orchard in late July is PRICELESS. 

Ribbon Cutting for a boutique opening in downtown Traverse City

 

Pink Anchor will open its doors at 11am on June 1^st with a Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting. The boutique will offer colorful and timeless women’s clothing with designers from around the country.  The selection of dresses, tops, pants, and accessories can go from work to a dinner date at an affordable price. Designers Julie Brown, Gretchen Scott, Barbara Gerwit, Tracy Negoshian, Malabar Bay & Mud Pie all offer classic designs and exclusive prints. In addition designers Ella Vickers creates totes of recycled sail cloths, Kiel James Patrick handcrafts pearl jewelry, and Jack Rogers has classic and durable shoe line.

The store has something for every age group, but at least 50% of clothing is geared towards women in their early 30’s to late 40’s. Personally and after listening to other women in the area there seems to be a gap in clothing options for women of that age group. I wanted to provide where some women feel left with few local shopping options.  

Dark colors seem to dominate most retailers and I really wanted to change that, bringing bright and bold to Traverse City. Sometimes we dress to reflect our mood whether it’s happy, sexy, or tired. We should have more clothing options that reflects the vibrancy of Traverse City and the women who live here.

A little about me: I left Detroit to permanently return to my favorite city, Traverse City. I had a successful career in TV news for the past 13 years, but decided to leave that behind for the beauty and lifestyle of up north. I previously lived in Traverse City in the early 2000’s where my broadcasting career started and returned year after year to visit family and take in the beauty. In wanting to return and start a family, I decided to follow my entrepreneurial instinct and use my love of design and clothing to offer something new and unique.

In the future we hope to use our shop to give back to the community through fundraisers and non-profit events. Please contact Jennifer to inquire.

I sincerely hope you can join me for my opening! Please arrive no later than 10:45am June 1 at 121 East Front Street, suite 103, Traverse City (directly behind Harbor Wear).

Pink Anchor LLC.

121 East Front Street
Suite 103
Traverse City, MI 49684

 TCAPS Update

 

TCAPS High Schools Recognized by U.S. News & World Report’s “Best High Schools” and The Washington Post’s “America’s Most Challenging High Schools”

Traverse City Central High School and Traverse City West Senior High School received two national rankings for 2016 that put them among the top 5% of schools in the state of Michigan and among the best in the nation. Both schools have continued to receive these honors year after year in recognition of the rigor of the coursework they offer and opportunities they provide to all students to prepare for college, careers and life. While the honors are given to TCAPS’ high schools, they are shared by all of the district’s schools, because great teachers from pre-school through 12^th grade help prepare students for high school and beyond.

 

Staff Appreciation Week—May 2-6^th (Photo Attached)

Each year, the TCAPS Board of Education designates a week to honor the hard work and dedication of the amazing teachers, custodians, food service workers, bus drivers, principals, social workers, office staff and more who work tirelessly on behalf of the young learners of the Traverse City region. This year, as a way to celebrate, the district has compiled videos of students, parents, staff and community members sharing why they think “TCAPS staff are the best.” You can view the videos here. If there is a teacher or education professional who has impacted your life, be sure to take a moment to say “thank you!”

 

Westwoods Elementary School Receives 10 InStride Desk Pedals from Fox Grand Traverse (Photos Attached)

It was Walk/Bike to School Day on Wednesday, May 4^th, and while the weather was rainy outside, students at Westwoods Elementary School pedaled throughout the day while staying dry. The school recently received a grant to purchase desk pedals from fellow Chamber member Fox Grand Traverse as a new way for students to exercise and expel energy during the school day. The bikes are being used in the school’s 5^th grade classrooms. “Research shows that increasing physical activity can help promote learning and enhance problem-solving abilities, however it is often difficult to ensure that each student each gets enough exercise during the day. The bikes are a great help to provide movement while learning curriculum,” said Westwoods Elementary School Principal Jessie Houghton. “Our students would pedal all day if they could. It’s really popular and our kids have a lot of fun.” 

 

Hosting an International Exchange Student (Photo Attached)

Have you ever thought it might be fun to be an ambassador for our region and country without ever leaving home? Have you ever wanted to share your family traditions, culture and language with someone from another country? Have you ever considered how your child’s ability to learn, adapt, live and work well in our global economy and society could be enhanced by having a global experience right here at home?  If you answered yes to any of these questions, you can join hundreds of members of our local community who have experienced just how rewarding providing a second home for a TCAPS international student can be. Contact Joe Thiel at 231-933-1766 or theiljo@tcaps.net to begin the application process, meet current students/families, or to request more information about this opportunity. Monthly reimbursements to help cover the costs associated with supporting an international student are also available.

 

Toddler Program at TCAPS Montessori at Glenn Loomis (Photo Attached)

The Toddler Montessori Program at TCAPS is designed for children ages 18-36 months and provides a child-directed, child-centered learning environment with activities that nurture and empower each individual child. Children are free to move around the classroom and select a particular activity that is of interest to them. It is expected that children will use the materials carefully and respectfully. In Montessori this is referred to as “freedom within limits,” which means that once children know what is expected of their behavior and have a set of guidelines, they are free to explore and use materials in an original and creative way. “A Montessori toddler classroom is truly an amazing place. Toddlers are moving purposefully around the classroom, taking care of themselves and their environment, and making decisions about their day. In a Montessori school the toddler program is truly the place where it all begins,” said Linda Gibson, Toddler Directress at TCAPS Montessori at Glenn Loomis. For more information about the Montessori Toddler Program at TCAPS Montessori at Glenn Loomis and to enroll, please call 231-933-5608.

 

TCAPS Board of Education Coffee Conversation—May 26^th

The next TCAPS Board of Education Coffee Conversation will be this Thursday, May 26th at Horizon Books from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Come join in the conversation!

 

TCAPS Calendar Reminders

• May 30 - No school, Memorial Day holiday
• June 9 - Last half day for students, full day for staff
• June 10 - No school, records day for staff
• 2015-2016 District School Year Calendar
   
  Stay Connected to Your Schools
  Sign up to receive Traverse City Area Public School’s monthly district newsletter Read the April edition of the newsletter here.
   
  City of Traverse City Update – May, 2016
   
  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.
   
  Seeking Volunteers! The City is currently looking for volunteers to serve on various boards and committees. If you are interested in becoming involved with your local government, visit www.traversecitymi.gov/boards.asp.
   
  Construction Season – keep a look out! The City has begun its season of construction. Please use caution when driving through these areas. For up to date information on construction projects and road project, visit our website at www.traversecitymi.gov and check the City News & Highlights section.
  
  Envision 8^th Street - Be a part of the future by getting involved in the 8^th Street Planning and Design Charrette.  This charrette is intended to plan and design not only the street, but include surrounding land uses to develop comprehensive approach for the entire corridor. Contact the City Planning Department at 231-922-4778 for more details or visit www.envision8th.org.
   
  
   
  UpNorthLive Deals  Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation is offering 2 half off deals on UpNorthLive: 1 for a Power Island stay/ride good for two nights stay (Sunday through Thursday) at a Power Island campsite with a round-trip shuttle ride and 1 for a full day’s use of historic, beloved Gilbert Lodge (capacity 200) at Grand Traverse County’s Twin Lakes Park in Long Lake Township during the months of November and December 2016 or January and February 2017.  Visit the UpNorthLive Deals page at http://wpbn.nimbledeals.com/deal/traverse-city?pageTitle=All%20Deals for more information.
   
  Brush Drop Off Site Open  The Brush Drop Off Site located at 2471 N. Keystone Road, Traverse City, is open for the season. Site hours are Tuesday Noon to 7 PM and Thursday and Saturday 9-3 PM. Accepted materials include brush, grass clippings and leaves, stumps up to 18 inches in diameter, and untreated construction wood. More information is available at www.recyclesmart.info/905.  
  
  Garfield, Long Lake, and East Bay Townships Offers Residents a No Charge Yard Waste Pass  Garfield, Long Lake, and East Bay Township residents are being offered a no charge brush site pass that can be obtained from the township offices during regular office hours.  The no charge yard waste pass is good for one trip and load not to exceed up to three (3) cubic yards of acceptable material brought to the Grand Traverse County Keystone Brush Drop-Off site located at 2471 N. Keystone Road.