10 Places I’ve Never Been: 22 Vines & Wines Cafe
August 11, 2011
This summer I’m on a mission to explore uncharted territory in my own backyard, and improve Michigan’s economy one purchase at a time.
The strategy is simple. Visit 10 places I’ve never been before…just because, I’ve never been. Next on my list: 22 Vines & Wines Cafe & Market
I arrived at 22 Vines & Wines Cafe & Market in the middle of lunch hour. All five of the booths were full and the owner, Rich Van Steenis was scurrying about filling water, taking orders and delivering hot food from the kitchen. Wouldn’t you know they were short staffed and Rich was the only waiter.
As I waited for a friend to join me I was able to scan the tables and soak up the amazing smells wafting from the little kitchen in back. A Thai chicken pizza was delivered to guests at the table across from me, carried in on a wooden plank. The smell was fantastic.
22 Vines & Wines Cafe & Market is located right on M-22 just south of Suttons Bay. In fact, it’s next door to another one of my 10 Places: Chateau de Leelanau. The Hilltop complex, which also houses Gallery 22 and the Leelanau Chamber, is owned by the Van Steenis family. They purchased the property, a former dairy farm, in 1977 and converted it to retail space for Rich’s mother. When she decided to retire in 2008 it was time for further renovations.
What once was a milking room, is now a 10-year dream come true for Rich’s wife Salve. But I’ll get to that later. First you need to see what Salve can do.
My friend arrived promptly and we examined the menu with interest. I changed my mind a dozen times because everything sounded so good. The handmade thin-crust pizzas looked fabulous, but were too big for our appetites. Besides I hoped to try more than one dish. So we decided to share an appetizer of Thai rolls and each ordered tacos for lunch.
The chef recommended a split order of spring rolls and summer rolls. The spring rolls are made from ground round, cabbage, carrot and bean sprouts, rolled im a rice wrapper and lightly sauteed (not fried). The summer rolls are fresh and cool. Steamed shrimp and crisp veggies are rolled up with rice noodles in a rice wrapper and served cold. They provided two sauces for dipping—a spicy soy and spicy peanut. Both rolls were excellent…even though we paired them with the wrong sauces!
For lunch I chose the shrimp tacos, since they were grilled. My friend opted for the fried fish tacos. And we were both happy with our decisions. They were served two to a plate, topped with lettuce, cheese, thai cream sauce and fresh salsa. I paired mine with a jasmine ice tea. Lunch was filling, but at the same time it felt light. Which, was a great way to finish a meal. Instead of feeling stuffed and regretful I was looking forward to a trip back. And I was dying to see more of Salve’s thai dishes. Lucky for me, there were a few more coming out of the kitchen.
When I mentioned on Twitter that I was headed to 22 Vines & Wines Cafe I had some suggestions from followers, which included the Tum Yum Soup. Now that I’ve seen it, I know I’ll be trying that next time. This traditional Thai dish is one Salve modeled after the Bangkok street vendors who would make the soup on a cart while you wait. At 22 Vines & Wines Cafe they offer a seafood version with shrimp, scallops and mussels, a tofu version, or chicken, shown here. You can order it mild, medium or spicy.
Here are a couple other dishes to inspire your taste buds. Bet you’re feeling hungry now.
There’s more to 22 Vines & Wines Cafe…it’s the Market. So after lunch I did a little exploring. The restaurant lies on the corner at the front end of the building. When you walk in seating stretches along each side of the room in front of you, with a bar at the back. On the other side of the wall lies the Market. The cafe opened in the fall of 2010, but the market just opened this May. It appears to be a work in progress. But the focus is clearly on locally made products, including beer, wine and spirits, as well as the unique Asian food staples that they feature in the cafe.
There’s an ice cream counter in the front of the market that sells Moomer’s ice cream, and in the back, near the kitchen you’ll find a small bakery display with truffles from Chocolate Exotica, and homemade cookies. The shelves are only partially filled but what I saw represented many of my favorite local food stuffs. Naturally Nutty nut butters and spreads, Stone House Bread, Sleeping Bear Farms honey and other Leelanau county products lined the shelves.
After my wandering I sat down with the owner to find out how they decided to open a Thai restaurant in Suttons Bay.
Rich and Salve Van Steenis met in her cafe in Manilla, Philippines while Rich was visiting the island on for a diving trip. Salve, who came from a family of rice farmers, broke away from the tradition to follow her dreams in the kitchen. She has been cooking for 25 years. It took 10 years to convince Rich to open a restaurant here. Since he retired in 2008, he decided it was time for Salve to have her wish. They’ve taken nine trips to Thailand, thus her passion for the flavors of that region.
Since I am a strong supporter of Michigan wine, I had to ask about their name, and the connection they have to the Michigan wine region. The location of the property, along M-22, combined with the fact that they are surrounded by Leelanau county wineries, lead to a restaurant name that would attract a wine-tasting crowd. And yet, I discovered an anomaly. I was surprised, and a bit disappointed to discover that 22 Vines & Wines Cafe does not pour a house Michigan wine. In fact, it’s from California.
According to Rich they opted not to pour a house wine from Michigan because they didn’t want to take away from the tasting experiences at the wineries around them. "They represent their products really well. We don’t want to compete with that," he added. What they do offer, which may calm the Michigan wine fans out there, is a large selection of Michigan wines by the bottle at retail prices that match the wineries. You can purchase a bottle in the market next door, and for a $5 cork fee you can enjoy that wine with your dinner.
I did notice several local Michigan craft beers on tap, including Right Brain Brewery, North Peak and Bells. They have many others available in the market coolers as well as distilled spirits from Grand Traverse Distillery and Black Star Farms.
At the end of the day I was really impressed with the dishes that came from Salve’s kitchen. They’ve created a restaurant that was supposed to appeal to a wine tasting crowd of tourists and instead impressed the locals so much they have many regulars who come several times a week. I know I’ll be back again to try that Tum Yum Soup…and maybe a coconut macaroon for dessert. They looked so tempting.
On your next trip wine tasting along the Leelanau Peninsula, think about stopping by 22 Vines & Wines Cafe & Market. You can find them at 5046 SW Bay Shore Drive, Suttons Bay. They offer dine in, or carry out so give them a call at 231.271.2221. And you can even check out their website at www.22-vines.com. As with all my 10 Places locations, I’ll be adding them to the Traverse Traveler iPhone app — our free mobile guide to the Traverse Area. Download on iTunes here.
If there’s a place in northern Michigan you’ve been dying to visit, but you’ve never made the time, I’d like to hear about it. Join the conversation on the Traverse Traveler Facebook page, and let me know where you’re going.
And stay tuned, as I plan to explore the next stop on my 10 Places I’ve Never Been tour: Country Christmas.
10 Places I’ve Never Been: Chateau de Leelanau
July 13, 2011
This summer I’m on a mission to explore uncharted territory in my own backyard, and improve Michigan’s economy one purchase at a time.
The strategy is simple. Visit 10 places I’ve never been before…just because, I’ve never been. Next on my list: Chateau de Leelanau Winery
Chateau de Leelanau Winery
When it comes to wine, I prefer to drink local. Since I live in the heart of northern Michigan wine country and work with several wineries I’ve had the opportunity to visit many tasting rooms. But until this summer I’d never been to Chateau de Leelanau. And it’s not because it’s off the beaten path. In fact, Chateau de Leelanau is on one of the most well traversed highways in the area, M-22, at the beginning of the Leelanau Wine Trail. And yet so many people pass them by. I wanted to find out why.
Matt Gregory, vintner, greeter and face of Chateau de Leelanau, was in the tasting room on the fateful day I walked through the door and sprang the news of my 10 Places I’ve Never Been series. Much like his wine industry cohorts he generously offered his time and some wine samples to walk me through the history of Chateau de Leelanau.
I’d like to say you can’t miss their tasting room, located on M-22 next to E. Hilltop Road, but the truth is so many people do. And that’s one thing the new owners are determined to change.
Those who remember the former tasting space will not recognize the building since Matt and his family moved in. They’ve cleared out the dusty tchotchkes, expanded the tasting bar and reinvented their brand with a simple clean logo. The goal: to rebuild the reputation of a winery born in the new millenium, and reborn in 2010.
While Matt and his family are new to the wine business, they are certainly not new to agriculture. In fact, that’s how they ended up with a winery in the first place. The tasting room for Chateau de Leelanau sits on M-22 just south of Suttons Bay. But the vineyard is several miles north — right next door to the Gregory family orchards, aka: Cherry Bay Orchards and Shoreline Fruit. When the winery and vineyards went up for sale, it seemed like a good time to make some wine.
I arrived in the winery for my tasting the same day Matt submitted his wines to the Michigan Wine & Spirits Competition for the first time. Since they’re a new winery, with less than a dozen wines for 2010, he sent them all. But the Gregory family didn’t join the wine ranks for the medals.
"We want to create palatte pleasing wines for the customers, that represent the agricultural background of Leelanau County," Matt explained. The industry folks often preach dry, dry, dry but nearly 90% of Chateau de Leelanau’s customers want sweet, sweet, sweet. The challenge is to produce wines that bring a smile to all their lips.
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After trying the wines, I was quite surprised by my favorites. Typically I prefer sweet whites, and while I like their Select Harvest, and signature Bianca, that’s not what I left with. I fell for a bottle of red, Solem Farm Red to be exact. It’s the perfect backyard BBQ, easy-to-drink, red wine. My second surprise was their Hard Apple Cider. The unusual combination of Sweetango™, Northern Spy and Golden Delicious apples, grown on the family farm, makes for a fabulous hard cider.
Little known fact: the Cherry Wine and Hard Apple Cider are Chateau de Leelanau’s best sellers and neither were in their sights when they set out to make wine. This year Chateau de Leelanau will produce 1000 cases of Cherry wine, compared to a very limited supply of their signature Bianca, at just over 40 cases.
If there’s one thing that stands out about Matt and the approach at Chateau de Leelanau it’s their laid-back style.
"We’re farmers, man! We’re not a snooty joint,"
Matt explained as he showed off one of their latest additions. They’ve fenced in a ‘wine corral’ just outside the building, complete with a window for walk-up service. This summer guests will be able to relax and enjoy a taste or a glass while they soak up the sun with friends and family. And after hearing about weekend specials like Cherry Sangria (see their recipe on our
Summer Sippers: Cocktails from Northern Michigan
post) and the infamous cherry wine snowcone…I’m definitely coming back this summer!
Before I left I had to get some food and wine pairings from the winemaker. So next time you’re debating a menu, give these a try:
>> Cherry Wine paired with pulled pork tacos
>> Bianca with bacon-wrapped scallops
>> Solem Farm Red & anything off the backyard BBQ
Vintner’s Picks: 2010 Cab Franc and 2010 Pinot Noir
I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the "family five" that make up the Chateau de Leelanau crew.
Don Gregory: The patriarch of Cherry Bay Orchards, one of the state’s largest cherry growers and production facilities
Matt Gregory: Nephew to Don, my host with the most, face of Chateau de Leelanau, and vintner
Roger Veliquette: The "food science guy," Roger crossed over from the Great Lakes Packing Company and brings years of experience to the table to tackle day-to-day aspects of winemaking
Andrew Gregory: Brother to Matt, who work for the marketing arm of the family cherry business, Shoreline Fruit
Mark Miezeo: Cousin to Andrew and Matt, and farm manager
Chateau de Leelanau is located on M-22 south of Sutton’s Bay at the intersection of E. Hilltop Road, that’s 5048 S. West Bayshore Dr, Suttons Bay for those using a GPS. For more information reach them by phone at 231.271.8888 or visit them online at chateaudeleelanau.com. Show them some love by becoming a fan of their Facebook page or follow them on Twitter @CDLwinery You can also find them on the Traverse Traveler iPhone app — our free mobile guide to the Traverse Area. Download on iTunes here.
If there’s a place in northern Michigan you’ve been dying to visit, but you’ve never made the time, I’d like to hear about it. Join the conversation on the Traverse Traveler Facebook page, and let me know where you’re going.
And stay tuned, as I plan to explore the next stop on my 10 Places I’ve Never Been tour: Korner Gem.
10 Northern Michigan Places I’ve Never Been
June 23, 2011
This summer I’m on a mission to explore uncharted territory in my own backyard, and improve Michigan’s economy one purchase at a time.
The strategy is simple. Visit 10 places I’ve never been before…just because, I’ve never been.
Close your eyes and think about this for a moment. Wait…that makes reading rather difficult. Scratch that.
Better yet imagine, if you will, your morning commute. If you’re lucky enough to call northern Michigan home that drive probably takes you through quaint shopping districts, or perhaps a bayside cruise past restaurants, marinas and resorts. When you live in a tourist town, like Traverse City, you’re surrounded by unique destinations. But just like those beautiful bay views, you seldom stop the car to appreciate them.
When I’m running displays for Mealtickets & Unusual Ideas my route takes me across Grand Traverse, Benzie and Leelanau county every month, canvassing the same highways area travelers flock to for a taste of Northern Michigan. Along these drives I pass dozens of storefronts I’ve never been in. And that got me thinking, why not? What is so difficult about taking 15 minutes out of my trip to satisfy my curiosity, and hopefully find something I like. That’s when I decided to pick 10 new places and pay them a visit.
What’s the big deal about choosing some place new?
One of the best parts of being a tourist is exploring uncharted territory. You never know what you’re going to discover. When you’re on vacation, especially in a place you’ve never been, every site you see, every food you taste, every door unopened is the beginning of a new adventure. If you look at your own community from the eyes of a visitor you’ll see a whole new world.
Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing shameful about having a favorite restaurant, or shopping at the same grocery store because it’s convenient. Every business needs ‘regulars,’ and that’s what the locals often are. But new customers are the key to business growth.
Did you know, in 2010 the Michigan tourism industry generated $17.2 billion— that’s a 14% increase from 2009. And, for the first time, out-of-state visitors spent more than Michigan residents on travel*.
Regions like Northern Michigan depend on those tourism dollars. And why do you think that is? Because we count on area visitors to do what we aren’t doing enough of: going out to eat, shopping at local stores and staying in area hotels. So I say, become a tourist in your hometown. And see what that does for Michigan’s economic recovery.
In honor of following my own advice I’m sharing my list of 10 New Places right here on the Mealtickets blog. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:
1. Hodge Podge Lodge - After seeing their listing in the Traverse Traveler app, and walking past the store in downtown Beulah, I had to check it out. And I must say, I’m loving my new $10 shoes! Click here to read more…
2. Chateau de Leelanau - Located on M-22 near Suttons Bay, this winery has new owners and some great wines…I’ll be back this summer for their cherry sangria, I can tell you that. Click here to read more…
3. Korner Gem - I’ve been dying to explore this hidden treasure just off M-22 on the west side of Traverse City, and I’m so glad I did. I can’t wait to show off the new jewelry they’re making—from my own beach stones. Click here to read more…
4. Woodland Creek Furniture - My friends from Virginia stop here every time they drive through Traverse City but I have never made a point to go in. Until now. It’s huge, and it’s amazing! Click here to read more…
5. The Rock Shop - If you’ve driven the corridor between Interlochen and Honor on US-31 you’ve passed it a million times. And so have I. But not this summer. I’m dying to find out how a place that sells rocks has been in business for so long! Click here to read more…
6. 22 Vines & Wines - I’ve heard nothing but good things about what’s coming from the kitchen in this tiny restaurant, with a Philippine chef, that lies along on the road to Suttons Bay. Click here to read more…
7. Country Christmas - Every local has passed this quaint cottage at 55 mph and yet I wonder how many have slowed down enough to read the sign. Looks like I’m gonna celebrate Christmas in July this year. Click here to read more…
8. Two Fish Gallery - There’s a huge tree near the corner of River & Main Street in Leland as you look down the boardwalk toward Fishtown. It casts a shadow on this lovely gallery. But the treasures inside are worth a visit. Click here to read more…
9. The Cherry Hut - Can you believe my husband graduated from Benzie Central, but he’s never been to this Beulah landmark? We’re going to check this one out together. Click here to read more…
10. Mystery Visit - I think I’m going to see what our Facebook & Twitter fans suggest, and base my 10th stop on their recommendations. Click here to reveal the Mystery…
You can keep up with my discoveries here on Mealtickets.com, and make suggestions of your own on Facebook and Twitter. And, as an added bonus, I’m going to make sure these new places get listed on the Traverse Traveler iPhone app. That way you can check them out too!
Why don’t you join me? Become a tourist in your hometown with these three simple steps:
- Get Ready: Take a moment and think about the places you drive past every week, but have never been in.
- Get Set: Pick ten, and make a list. The list is critical. There’s something about the simple act of writing it down that will help make you accountable.
- Go: You have 99 days of summer to explore your own backyard. Make it memorable.
Share your 10 Places with us!
We want to hear about the adventures in your hometown. I’ve set up a Discussion Board on the Traverse Traveler Facebook Page. I’d love to hear what you’ve discovered. Happy backyard travels everyone!
Resources:
*Detroit Free Press | State Tourism Spending Soars
Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide
December 14, 2010
Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide 2010
When the holidays roll around it’s no surprise that I like to spend time searching for unique regional gifts to share with friends and relatives who appreciate the Traverse City area from afar. Since I’m often a last minute shopper I thought I’d share a few local finds that will make last minute shopping a breeze. From food & beverages, to books and fashion, there’s plenty of ways to suprise your loved ones with a gift from Northern Michigan.
This year I’ve broken the gift guide into the followiong categories:
- Foodie Favs
- For Him
- For Her
- Recycled
- Kid Friendly
- Hostess Gifts
So if you’re still shopping, let’s get started. I’ve listed the item and the store where I discovered it, when possible.
Foodie Favs
Northern Michigan is a great place to live if you need to pick up a last minute gift for a foodie. Here are a couple of items I discovered that make great gifts for the foodie on your list.
Santa Bags | Murdicks Fudge Shoppe
These cute drawstring bags come in several sizes. Forget the stockings and fill a santa bag. Stop by the Murdick’s Fudge Shop in Suttons Bay to stock up right in the store with their great selection of sweet treats and locally made foods. I’m partial to the carmel corn and peanut butter fudge, but that’s the beauty of this gift: you make it your own. $4.50 - $8.50
Great Lakes Potato Chips | Olesons Market
I am in love with these chips. They come in three flavors: BBQ, Salt & Vinegar and Regular, but in my mind there’s only one way to describe them. YUMMY. Great Lakes Potato Chips are produced locally, by the owners of another great local business, Pangea’s Pizza. I’m not sure how one goes from making fabulous creative pizzas to delicious potato chips, but frankly I don’t mind. The chips are available at local grocery chains like Olesons. 2 bags for $7.00
Cherry Jam | The Cherry Stop
Cherry products are always a great gift. And I like the jam from The Cherry Stop for a couple of reasons. Number one, they make it in house, right there in the kitchen in Downtown Traverse City. Can’t beat that for freshness. And two, they’ve come up with a recipe that’s sweet enough, but is actually considered low in sugar by jam standards. So you can feel good about your gift. If you aren’t a fan of jam, I’m sure you’ll find something to love at The Cherry Stop.
What’s New Cupcake book
If there’s a creative mom on your list, or perhaps a baker, this book is one of my favorites. I picked it up this fall before my son’s birthday party. I needed to make Darth Vader cupcakes and the ideas I pulled from this book helped me accomplish that monumental task. And when we were snowed in this past weekend I pulled it out and made snowmen cupcakes for a holiday Christmas party. The ideas are simple, and the ingredients aren’t hard to find. While it’s not a local author, you can support a local bookstore like Horizon Books by picking it up there. $16.95
Oil & Vinegar Sampler Packs | Fustini’s Oils & Vinegars
Anyone who has been to my house notices the large collection of Fustini’s bottles on my kitchen counter. And they’re not just there for decoration. I’m a big fan of their flavor infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars. I use them for everything from cooking vegetables, to salad dressings, marinades and even desserts. A bottle or two of Fustini’s, and some pour spouts also makes a great hostess gift. But I’ve listed them with the foodie gifts because of their new Sampler Packs. They have 5 different combinations, each including four 6.8oz bottles; 2 balsamics, 2 oils. They’ve done the pairings, so you don’t have to. $47.95
History of Michigan Wine | Local Bookstores, Some Wineries
From the authors of From the Vine comes another great read about the History of Michigan Wines. Lorri Hathaway and Sharon Kegerreis share their research into the interesting stories of how the Michigan wine industry began, the impact of prohibition, and the development of this agricultural success story. It’s a quick read, full of fun facts for foodies and oenophiles.
For Him
Growler Collar | Right Brain Brewery, Left Foot Charley
The must have gift of the season for the beer lover in your household. The Growler Collar is the invention of Staton Lorenz, Mealtickets founder. It’s the solution to the tricky problem of getting your growlers clean and dry. When your growler is empty, rinse it with hot water, then spin a Growler Collar on the neck, turn it upside down and rest on the counter to dry. This simple disk keeps it elevated so air can get in and water can get out. Customized Growler Collars are available at Left Foot Charley and Right Brain Brewery. It makes a great stocking stuffer as it’s under $10!
Sh*t my Dad Says book | Brilliant Books and other local bookstores
Ok, this might seem like an odd gift, but if the recipient has a sense of humor and they don’t mind a little cursing…ok, a LOT of cursing, then this book is worth checking out. I picked it up in the store and randomly flipped to a page in the middle, as I always do when evaluating the writing of a new author. I laughed outloud to the point of embarrasment. And everytime I glance at it I still can’t help cracking up to the witty, and sometimes vulgar, advice given from one crass father to his son.
Adlerblick "Eyes of an Eagle" Binoculars | Enerdyne
For the sports enthusiast or bird watcher, or the casual lakeshore viewer, there’s nothing better than a good pair of binoculars. And on a recent trip to Suttons Bay I discovered a fabulous pair on sale. These Adlerblick "Eyes of an Eagle" binoculars come in 7×50 or 10×50 magnifications. Binoculars this nice are rarely on sale, much less available at 25% off retail price. So if there’s a man on your list who could use an upgrade, these are the specs to get. $281-$295
For Her
Cherry wallet | The Cherry Stop
This is cherry country, but not everyone loves the delicious sweet fruit as much as we do. So if you’re looking for a TC themed gift for a girlfriend how about a wallet or change purse with cherries on it. These great Lavishy products are made vegan friendly, immitation leather. So you can feel good, and look good carrying them. Available in a range of styles and colors for passport covers, wallets, change purses and cosmetic pouches. $5.99 - $18.99
Graphic Pendant necklaces | Gallery Fifty
I loved these the moment I saw them. Graphic is my middle name, but the variety is what make them such a great gift. These necklaces, by artist Marilyn Gum, come in dozens of designs. The pendant is colorful glass infused with color and imagery. And you get to choose your cord as well. Talk about a custom gift for the women on your list. It’s arty, it’s fun, and it’s affordable. Cords or ribbon are $5 and pendants are $16. Gallery Fifty is the perfect place to expand your jewelry collection. (Fordite…need I say more?). Love them!
Chocolate Vodka | Grand Traverse Distillery
Usually I’m touting local wines as the perfect Michigan gift, but this time it’s vodka’s turn. Grand Traverse Distillery has been turning heads with their True North vodkas in competitions around the world. And lucky us, their production facility is tucked away in an industrial park right here in Traverse City. And that’s the only place that I’ve found their newest concoction: chocolate vodka! Can you say Chocolate martini anyone? Happy hour time. If you’ve never been to the Distillery check out our map on the Attractions page and we’ll get you to the door.
Lipstick | Venus
I’m a sucker for a new shade of lipstick. What girl isn’t always on the hunt for that perfect new shade. On Ladies Night I stopped by Venus and noticed these selections from Paul & Joe. A little sparkle, a little bit sheer, great for the holidays. Their shades are numbered instead of named, so make sure you pick up the right box. With New Years Eve on the holiday horizon there’s bound to be a girl who needs a little something new to ring in the New Year.
Pouchee | Venus
I’m loving the convenience of the purse insert they sell at Venus in Traverse City called Pouchee. If someone on your list has a purse for every outfit, they’ll love this idea. It’s a purse insert that acts as a wallet, but also holds everything else. Slip it in and out of whatever bag you’ve got. It will hold your cell phone, lipstick, checkbooks, tissues or whatever you like to tote around. One of the hottest gifts in the store this season.
Recycled
Flower Scarf | Pretty Stinkin’ Green
I can’t go anywhere, honestly, without someone coming up to me and complimenting my scarf from Pretty Stinkin’ Green. If you haven’t heard of these girls yet, you will. They’re making skirts, scarfs and bags from recycled clothing. You can have custom skirts made from your old college t-shirts or your favorite colors. But from the moment I saw them, I loved the flowered scarfs made of recycled wool and other soft, non-shedding fabrics. No two are alike, which makes them even better gifts. Check out their website as they aren’t available in too many local stores.
PriorLIFE Bags | Britten Banner
This is a great concept, from start to finish. Take a used banner that’s been hanging at a NASCAR race, or temporarily promoting an event somewhere in the US, and turn it into a functional piece of art, instead of trash. A few years ago Britten Banner launched this idea, and it’s been growing ever since. Now you can pick up laptop cases, tote bags, messenger bags and wallets under the PriorLIFE product line. Available online and in several downtown Traverse City stores. $13.00 - $35.00
869 New Uses For Old Things book | Brilliant Books or local bookstores
If there’s a junk junky in your family, or someone who appreciates a good tip for finding old things new again, this book is sure to inspire. By the authors of Real Simple magazine this book is filled with suggestions for new uses to household items. Did you know you can use aluminum foil to help get wrinkles out of delicate fabrics? Or that antacid tablets will help you clean a vase or ease a bug bite? Stop by your favorite book nook and take a look. $27.95
Kid Friendly
Chemistry Set | Enerdyne
I love Enerdyne for kids gifts in general because they have a great selection of educational gifts, crafty projects and gifts for the hard-to-buy-for children on your list. Sometimes you just don’t want to add another video game under the tree. These chemestry sets from Thames & Kosmos are great tools for getting kids excited about science. And they come in a range of age-appropriate options. $13 - $89
Harry Potter Film Wizardry book | Local Bookstores
Yes, I like to shop for books. They make a great gift for anyone on your list. Even kids. But this Harry Potter book is geared for the movie buff on your shopping list, kid or not. It’s a beautiful guide to the Harry Potter movie series, with details on scenes, characters and movie techniques that have all entranced us for years. $39.99
Sweet Treats | Dylan’s Candy Bar
There’s a new shop in town that specializes in candy. It’s Dylan’s Candy Bar and it’s at the Grand Traverse Resort. You can’t help but be drawn in by the colorful displays that span the walls and lure you in through the windows. I stopped by after the Traverse City Chamber Business Expo and picked up a few treats for myself, and for the kids. If you’re planning to make a gingerbread house this season and are looking for unique decorations, this is the place to go. Amazing.
Hostess Gifts
Mini bottles of Bubbly | Black Star Farms
Sparkling wine is a great gift to bring along to a holiday party. Presented as a hostess gift it can be opened at the party, or saved for later. These split bottles of Black Star Farms Be Dazzled sparkling wine are wrapped with festive labels which means you don’t even need the gift wrap. Very eco-conscious I think, don’t you? Pick them up at all three of their tasting rooms. $8.50
Wine bottle candleabra | Left Foot Charley
Holiday parties need ambiance. And what’s better than candles for setting the mood? On a trip to Left Foot Charley in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons I discovered this candleabra that sits atop an empty wine bottle. It holds 5 tea lights for a glowing presentation. Pair it with a nice bottle of riesling and you’re good to go. $16.00 (15% off all LFC merchandise through the end of December!)
Happy shopping everyone!
Free Fishing Weekend 6/12 - 6/13
June 11, 2010
Get Your ‘Fish On’ this Weekend
Fishing is a great way to enjoy the beautiful lakes and rivers up North. And this weekend, June 12-13, there’s no fee to fish. Michigan residents and out-of-town visitors can enjoy 2 days of fee-free fishing for all species. Fishing regulations still apply, but there is no license required thanks to the Department of Natural Resources Free Fishing Weekend. Twice a year the DNR offers free fishing weekends to encourage everyone to pick up a rod and cast for the "big one".
So whether you’re camping and want to cast a line with the kids, or you prefer to hop aboard a charter for some big lake action, this is the perfect weekend to get the fishing bug. I say, "Fish On!"
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