Madonna Comes To Traverse City!

Madonna will travel to Traverse City on Saturday, August 2, for a gala screening of her new film at the town's historic State Theatre. Tickets for the event will go on sale on June 7, with details to be announced soon.
Traverse City State Theatre

Mario Batali autographs Italian Grill at Boarders!

June 28, 2008
Local Event
Time: 2:00pm
Location: Borders Book Store
Mario Batali sits for an autograph session heralding his latest title, Italian Grill at 2pm at Borders Book Store in Traverse City. The book features appetizers, pizza and flatbreads, fish and shellfish, poultry, meat and vegetables.
Phone: (231) 933-0412

The National Cherry Festival 2008: US Navy Blue Angels!

When: Saturday, July 5 Opening Day Sunday, July 6 Start Time: 1:00 PM End Time: 3:00 PM

Join us for the 82nd National Cherry Festival Air Show, sponsored by Northern Michigan Toyota Dealers, Sam's Club and Charter Communications on Saturday, July 5 and Sunday, July 6 for an exciting airshow. Friday July 4, will also be an active day with a full practice airshow as well as a festive Twilight Airshow event prior to the Fireworks display over West Grand Traverse Bay.

Join us in welcoming the 2008 Air Show performers...

The US Navy Blue Angels Demonstration Team, Aeroshell Aerobatic Team, USMC AV-8B West Coast Demonstration Team (MCAS Yuma, Arizona), 2x McDonnell Douglas F-15D (114th FS "Eagle Beavers", Kingsley Field, Oregon),2x Fairchild A-10 Thunderbolt II (172nd FS "Mad Ducks", Battle Creek, Michigan), 4x USMC F/A-18 (VMFA-122 "Werewolves", MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina).

The flight pattern is over the Festival Open Space Park and West Grand Traverse Bay. The Festival Airshow will take to the skies at 1:00 p.m. both days.

Traverse City: Bicycle on the Ice - West Bay

Ok, you don't see this everyday! My first thoughts were that this gentleman was pulling a somewhat dangerous stunt for the kicks of others or maybe just for himself. That may be the case but it seems that this was his solution to a dreaded wet slushy walk from this fish shany to the shoreline over by Bryant Park. I spent most of my youth on the shores of Northern Lake Leelanau in Leelanau County and have logged may hours mostly playing on a frozen lake. I can tell you though, that it never crossed my mind, even as a young person, to drag by bike out onto the frozen h2o. As I continued to follow him across the bay with my zoom lens is if he was a passing satellite across the horizon, he did fall - once. Kicked from his bike he sat there for what seemed a full minute as his bike stood high upright, obviously with its wheels stuck in the slush - burr. He then got back on his feet (most likely restarted his heart!) and straddled his bike and continue on. I'm sure his bottom was now completely frozen. What a wonderful place Traverse City is...

Traverse City Old Town Playhouse: Into the Woods

Arts & Culture (Fri. Sat. )
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: 148 E. Eighth Street
Website: http://www.oldtownplayhouse.com/
An ambivalent Cinderella? A blood-thirsty Little Red Ridinghood? A Prince Charming with a roving eye? A Witch...who raps? They're all among the cockeyed characters in James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim's fractured fairy tale musical. When a Baker and his Wife learn they've been cursed with childlessness by the Witch next door, they embark on a quest for the special objects required to break the spell, swindling, lying to and stealing from Cinderella, Little Red, Rapunzel and Jack (the one who climbed the beanstalk). Everyone's wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later, with disastrous results. What begins as a lively irreverent fantasy in the style of “The Princess Bride” becomes a moving lesson about community responsibility and the stories we tell our children. One of Sondheim's most popular works, this timeless yet relevant piece is a rare modern classic. Individual Tickets Go on Sale Monday, February 25 at 4 p.m.
Phone: (231) 947-2210

Lodging? Goto: TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER .COM

Morning Stroll on the Boardman Lake Trail

We will meet at the front of the library, and then head out for early signs of spring along the east side of Boardman Lake. Feel free to join us for lunch afterwards at a local restaurant. This will be an entry-level outing, so if the weather is really crummy, we'll reschedule it. Please contact Judy or Bob for details and to sign up bennettjj@charter.net or phone (231) 932-9249. We want to be able to notify you in case of cancellation.

for lodging: TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Keely & Du at Old Town Playhouse

02/08/2008 - 02/23/2008

From the author of Talking With and Vital Signs, here is a volatile drama about abortion. Du, a right to life activist, and Keely, a pregnant rape victim she is confining, transcend their circumstances and the ideological issues that separate them. Keely and Du is a mind probing issue play with a gripping human face. Who is accountable? What is the extent of individual freedom? What are a rape victim's rights? What is a Christian's realities of procreation? Their passionate stories exist on the extreme edge of everyday reality.

Performances: February 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 2008 in the Studio Theatre. Not suggested for young audiences due to adult language and subject matter. Old Town Playhouse is located at 148 East 8th Street, Traverse City www.oldtownplayhouse.com or (231) 947-2210.

For lodging visit;
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Rolling Centuries Winter Festival in Traverse City

01/26/2008
Again Rolling Centuries Farm (RCF) and McLain Cyclery and Fitness Center will team together to offer Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides and Snow Shoe Romp. All ages are encouraged to come and enjoy! On Saturday, January 26, 12 noon to 3 PM, there will be Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides from The Village (bldg. 50), to the Rolling Centuries Farm Cathedral Barn and back. Hot chocolate and coffee provided. Other drinks and foods can be purchased on site from Cuppa Joes. While you wait for your turn, browse our new and used Book Sale. Donations requested to cover costs, $4 per person or $12 per family of 4. If questions call 943-7999. That evening at the RCF Cathedral Barn, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, we will Snow Shoe the ice candle lit trail and enjoy warm food from Folgerelli's. Donation requested $12 per person, $ 25 per family with minor children. Food included with donations. For reservations or questions, call McLain’s 943-8855. Any money raised above costs, benefit the Rolling Centuries Farm, an educational working farm.
TRAVERESCITYVACATIONER.COM

A Holiday Serenade: Omena, Michigan

A Holiday Serenade - Celebrating the Season in Omena

When: 12/30/2007

Presented by the Omena Historical Society, the program will include a variety of musical styles from Gospel to classical, instrumentals and vocals, with a lively sing-a-long to close. Musicians include Eva & T.J. Lymenstull, the Boyer Family, Marshall & Mary Collins, Mike Moran, Karen Remington and Donna Brunsma, The Trillium Quartet, and Steve Stanton & Ruby John. At the Omena Presbyterian Church, 7 pm, tickets are $15, available at the Tamarack Gallery or by phone at 386-5529.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Elk Rapids Community PJ Party : New Years Eve

Elk Rapids Community PJ Party

When: 12/31/2007

Downtown merchants nearly 80% of the retailers in downtown Elk Rapids participate in this fun event which offers deep discounts to customers. The stores open early and customers who show up in their "pajamas" receive a 50% discount from 7 until 8 a.m., a 40% discount from 8 - 9 a.m. and a 30% discount from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. when the sale ends. Some restrictions may apply. Elk Rapids. (231) 264-8202
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Frozen Foot Race - Eastern Elementary Start/Finish

The Frozen Foot 5-Mile Road Race!
When: Saturday, January 19th, 2008 at 10:00am
Where: Start/Finish at Eastern Elementary School
1600 Eastern Avenue
Traverse City, MI 49686

Race Day Registration & Packet Pick Up:
Race day from 8:30-9:30am at the start/finish location
Course:
Expect a "figure 8" course, mostly flat with a 1km climb.
Entry Fee:
$15 prior to January 19th
$20 Race Day
Entry fee includes winter hat (limited supply)

Click here for downloadable entry form

Checks are made payable to:
The Traverse City Track Club
Mail entries to:
Running Fit
300 East Front Street, Suite 103
Traverse City, Michigan 49684

Awards:
Awards will be handed out to the top 3 in each age group and the overall winners.
For more information call: 231-933-9242

Traverse City: Jingle Bell Run/Walk Downtown!

Park Place Hotel
December 23rd, 2007

This event will feature a social 5K Run/Walk along the streets of Downtown Traverse City. Dress warm and be prepared to endure cold temps and wet feet! It's my understanding that this is not a competitive event, but a Christmas gathering. Leave your stopwatches at home this will not be a timed event. There will be random prize giveaways taking place during the event!

5-5:30pm Registration: Park Place Hotel

*Jingle Bell pick-up

*Non-perishable food Drop-off

5:30pm 5K Run/Walk

Along Downtown Streets

6:15-9pm Holiday Gathering at the Park Place Hotel

Pizza, snacks, hors D’Oeuvres will be provided.

Cash bar

REGISTRATION FORM

Traverse City: Big Business - Silent Film Series

Silent Film Series: Big Business
12/29/2007
Starring Laurel and Hardy and 'One Week' starring Buster Keaton - Stephen Warner, Organist. At the Music House Museum. Adults $15; Couples $25, 16 and under $5. Matinee 5 p.m.; evening 7:30 p.m. 7377 US 31 N., Acme. (231) 938-9300.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Men's Night - Holiday Shopping - Downtown

When: 12/20/2007
Men’s Night Gentlemen, the evening is yours for gifting and gabbing! Celebrate the spirit of the evening as well as the season at Men’s Night Downtown. The gents can enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drink specials at Downtown eateries to begin the evening. Downtown merchants will have in-store specials, gift wrapping, refreshments and downtown prize drawings. Take advantage this special night of in-store specials while enjoying refreshments, entertainment and drawings to find the perfect gift for that special someone. Downtown Traverse City Association. 922-2050.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Northport: Christmas Concert at Northport Community Arts Center

12/16/2007 December 16, 2007 - Sunday. 3 pm.
It has become a tradition to start Christmas in Northport with this festive concert. The Village Voices, under the leadership of Ann Bloomquist and the Northport Community Band, conducted by Ken Bloomquist, are together once again for this most anticipated performance. Here we go again with a full spectrum of holiday cheer. You can expect to hear the songs you all know and love along with a sprinkling of delightful new music. It will be done with spectacular staging, lighting and sound that should dazzle the imagination. This concert presents more than just the Village Voices and Community Band ensembles. We are fortunate to have talented musicians in our groups and in the surrounding area that we will add to the program. Surprises are to be expected so come join us for An Old Fashioned Christmas at the NCAC. Northport Community Arts Center 231-386-5001. Adult Ticket: $15 Student Ticket: $5.00.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City: Old Town Playhouse - Disney's Mulan

Disney's Mulan at Old Town Playhouse
12/14/2007 - 12/16/2007
Based on the 1998 Disney film Mulan and the story FA Mulan by Robert D. San Souci. Travel back to the legendary, storytelling days of ancient China with this action-paced stage adaptation. Mulan Jr. is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirt. 7 p.m. Sunday's performance is at 2 p.m. Suitable for all ages.
Old Town Playhouse, 148 East 8th Street, Traverse City. (231) 947-2210
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

The Bay View Condominiums in Suttons Bay, Michigan

MOONLIGHT BAY AT BAY VIEW CONDOS - Make this beautiful condo and yacht club your new vacation destination just north of the village in Suttons Bay. This spacious condo with sweeping views of beautiful Grand Traverse Bay features 2 bdrms/2 ba with lower level cabana room with bath and small sleeping area . Sleeps 6 with 2 Queens and a sofabed. Master bath features 2 person jacuzzi tub. Beautifully appointed with upscale kitchen, granite countertops, hardwood floors, gas FP and more! TV/DVD/Internet connection,no phone. Shared sandy beach frontage and fishing dock. Sit out on the upper balcony and sip your coffee while the sun comes up or watch the kids on the lower level patio while they swim at the beach. Indoor pool, tennis courts (racquets included)bikes, and spa/gym area for your relaxation pleasure. Other features include W/D, DW and luxury linens. Only a short walk to the village! Boat slip available for larger boats can be rented at separate nominal cost. Rates quoted do not include boat slip. Only 15 minutes to Traverse City too. Make this your perfect vacation destination. You will be very happy that you did. Condo accommodates 4 adults in the winter months.(cabana not available winter months) Linens included. No Smoking. No Pets. Sat-Sat.
For more information visit: TraverseCityVacationer.com/moonlight.htlm
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM

Traverse City Vacationer™ Gets New Look!

Traverse City Vacationer - What started out as an idea has grown into a collection of several Traverse City and Leelanau rental properties. While at first I really liked the "black" theme of the site leaning on my photography gallery preferences, it was time for a new look for the Traverse City Vacationer, something more in tune with what it has become, vacation rental listings. I decided to get in line with a beache-er theme as that is what the site is mostly about, summer time fun in the sun with several locations to do so. The new site has a simpler contact method with e-mail links instead of dreaded "forms" to fill out. Just click the e-mail link and type...it's fast and easy. This puts the perspective renter in contact with the owner or manager of that particular property. I'm still transfering listings from the "old" site, so expect to see more listings pop up over the next couple of weeks.
TRAVERSECITYVACATIONER.COM