One of Michigan's Top Resorts

I always love the feeling of being in a hotel. I know, for some people, this gets old after a long stretch of traveling - but for me, I like the thrill of it. It’s a constant stream of new places, new decorations, new rooms, new services and new people. I like the surprise of how the rooms are laid out so I can compare them to the other places I stay. I like being away from home, not having to make my bed, being able to leave a mess and know that I won’t have to pick it up. I just really enjoy the change of scenery every once in a while.

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to take a tour of the Bay Pointe Inn in Shelbyville. I was there for a work meeting but of course I just had to look around! Scott, the General Manager at Bay Pointe, was kind enough to take Shannon and me on the grand tour.

We started outside down by the Lake. Bay Pointe is nestled in the perfect location on the Southeast side of Gun Lake. The grounds are absolutely beautiful. As you walk down the stairs from the hotel to the shoreline, a few pairs of Adirondack chairs that adorn the front lawn greet you. They are faced towards the lake, and an instant feeling of serenity just overcomes your body. 

As you make your way over to the dock, you can’t help but notice the 3,000 square foot pavilion that can hold up to 200 people! This is the perfect place for an outdoor wedding, concert, or any other type of party. In fact, every Wednesday in the summer, Bay Pointe hosts a concert series called “Gun Lake Live.” A band comes and rocks out in the pavilion. It is a great event for families of all shapes and sizes and the event is open to the public. Bay Pointe Inn hosts weddings almost every weekend in the summer - and I can see why!

 

As we made our way back inside, we stopped by the room we were originally in for our meeting. The Fireside Banquet Center was the perfect location for our group of about 25.  The room can be set up anyway the group prefers, and there is a 144 inch projection screen that is ideal for meetings because everyone can see the screen. This room also doubles as a great concert venue. In fact, this weekend, on February 5^th, Bay Pointe will be hosting the rhythm and blues musical styling of trio Tony Fields & Doug Decker with guest guitarist Jeff Starr. From 8:00pm- 12:00am, guests will be out of their seats dancing to the music. Reservations are accepted for this fun evening of dancing and cocktails, but are not required and there will be no cover charge.

We made our way through the hotel’s touring rooms that were decorated in the perfect theme - a beach motif. The hotel offers seven different types of room layouts. We couldn’t see every type, but our jaws dropped as Scott opened up the door to the last room we looked at. We were in the Lakeside Ultimate Suite and I’ll tell you- this room was cooler than the other side of the pillow! Complete with fireplace, pillow top king size, whirlpool tub, and 550 square feet of soothing décor. We didn’t want to leave. We both joked that this room was larger than both of our apartments- and I think it was!

We made our way back down the lobby and through the restaurant. If you remember the Where to Eat This Week post from a few weeks back, I talked about the Terrace Grille (if you missed it you can check it out here). This is the restaurant located inside of the Bay Pointe Inn. I obviously liked it - I can’t stop talking about it. But I will just reiterate my point again- there is some GOOD eating there!

There is a reason this place was voted “One of Michigan’s Top Resorts!” The whole aesthetic of Bay Pointe Inn combined with its location makes for the perfect getaway, whether it is for a weekend or a week. The beach and ambiance are the perfect combination for a little time away. For more information regarding the hotel, you can check out their website here. 

If you are in dire need of an overnight getaway, then you are in luck! This week we will be giving away an overnight stay in a Lakeside Luxury Guestroom at Bay Pointe Inn.  All you have to do to win is tell us what you love about hotels!

Good luck!

--Kelly

Weekend Idea Round-Up

I have to admit that this weekend, I'm slightly torn. Many of West Michigan's communities are erupting in a collective winter hurrah with the next three days holding non-stop winter festivals. Reading your entries to this week's giveaway, however, has me wishing for the warming of spring. Morel mushrooms, boating on Lake Michigan, strolling our quaint coastal towns with coffee in hand. Well, I actually do the last one year round (what, where did this grande latte come from? Who put that on my desk?).

Our four lucky winners don't have to be torn, as they will have three great shows to attend in February, giving them the best of both worlds. Let us delay no longer and draw our winners.

This Week's Winners

Diane McGowan 

Mari Schuitema

Jeff Blum

Tina

What a great group! Each of you will be receiving two tickets to each of the following three shows: the Michigan International Auto Show (February 3 - 6), the West Michigan Golf Show (February 11 - 13), and the Grand Rapids Boat Show (February 16 - 20). Time is of the essence on this one, so e-mail me ASAP to claim your prize. Congratulations!

As for the rest of us, we can still attend these great shows, each taking place at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids. A tip: the ShowSpan website (linked to each show above) often has coupons!

A weekend high five,

-Shannon

Starting This Weekend

• Grand Rapids: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: Jim Dine: Sculpture | Through May 8

All Weekend

• Grand Haven Winterfest
• Grand Rapids Ballet Company: Nine Sinatra Songs | Also February 4 - 6
• Houghton Lake: Tip-Up Town USA
• Kalamazoo County Expo Center: Traditional Bow Hunters Expo
• Muskegon: Snowfest 2011
• Muskegon Winter Sports Complex: 3rd Annual "The Pond" Hockey Tournament
• Newaygo Winterfest

Saturday

• Grand Rapids Art Museum: Saturday All Day with the Arts - Great Women of the Permanent Collection

Saturday & Sunday

• Thompsonville: Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa: Snowboard Carve & Race Camp

Don’t Forget

• Grand Rapids: Gerald R. Ford Museum: Betty Ford: An Extraordinary Life | Through February 27
• Grand Rapids Art Museum: Class Pictures: Photographs by Dawoud Bey | Through March 20
• Grand Rapids Art Museum: Selections from 100 Years/100 Works of Art | Through February 7
• Grand Rapids Art Museum: Diana - A Celebration | Through February 16
• Grand Rapids Public Museum: Bodies Revealed | Through May 1
• Muskegon Museum of Art: Postcard Salon | Through February 3
• Muskegon Museum of Art: We Are the Ship: the Story of Negro League Baseball | Through March 13
• South Haven Center for the Arts: Circus Exhibit by Joan Bonnet | Through February 6
• South Haven Center for the Arts: Regional Juried Art Exhibit | Through February 21

West Michigan's Winter Color Palette

As January creeps to an end, many of us are growing weary of early morning car-scraping and donning seven layers just to get the mail. The winter grays (i.e. wanting to bury yourself in a pile of blankets until spring) are settling in. And yet, somewhere in the twitter world, somebody recently wrote that our dear state is shaped like a mitten just to remind us how much fun Michigan is during this oh-so-chilly season. Perfect timing for this fabulous notion!

This week, I would like to give you a challenge. Pull on those mittens, Michiganders! Emerge from your blanket cocoon and brush away the grays. In fact, I want you to take a moment to notice how very not-gray West Michigan winters are. When you go outside to take part in your favorite snow-bound activity, whether it be cross-country skiing, downhill racing, tobogganing, snowshoeing or simply building a snowman (snow sport ideas), stop and ask yourself what colors you're actually seeing. Typically, clouds aren't really white and gray; they're purple, yellow, and blue. Is winter water gray or does it have reflecting golds and orange?

Below are three images I took over the weekend paired with colors pulled from the photograph. Look at the rainbow we have!

Forget the grays and enjoy West Michigan's winter palette while exploring the great outdoors this week. While you're at it, perhaps you can snap a few images of your own to share in next week's West Michigan Wednesday.

High five,

-Shannon

West Michigan Wednesday 2

Welcome to our second edition of West Michigan Wednesday, a weekly photographic celebration the sunset side of the mitten. If you have a great photo of West Michigan that you would like to share, please do. It's easy! From 9 am Wednesday to 9 am Thursday, photographers can post their images with a link to his or her blog or Flickr (or any other webpage) using simple Linky Tools. It can be done in three easy steps:

1. Copy the West Michigan Wednesday icon to your blog entry or link it to West Michigan Weekly (http://westmichiganweekly.blogspot.com).
2. When the meme opens at 9 am on each Wednesday, a Linky link posted on the West Michigan Wednesday post will walk you through the photo loading process.
3. Visit West Michigan Weekly and take in the amazing photos!

With all the snow we've received, I'm sure there are stunning winter shots out there to share. Let's see 'em!

High five,

-Shannon

Audie’s Restaurant—A Unique Dining Experience

Where to Eat This Week reminds me of a wonderfully spontaneous day my fella' and I had a few years ago.  We woke up to a normal Saturday morning, sipping coffee on the patio. We had no plans, nothing special on the agenda. I can't quite recall whose idea it was or even how it began, but suddenly the two of us were in the car, driving north to Mackinaw. How ridiculous! How wonderful! How adventurous!

A few short hours later, we arrived at the lovely city perched atop the Lower Peninsula - starving. I'm always hungry, and the bag of trail mix I wisely grabbed before running out the door was certainly not cutting it. After a couple of turns, we found ourselves at Audie's. The atmosphere was perfectly befitting a Mackinaw City excursion, and while I don't remember exactly what I ate, I do always remember Audie's being a great part of a great day. 
(HF, Shannon)

Take it away, Robin!

With so many great dining options available, a restaurant needs something special to stand out. It’s the variety that Audie’s offers that makes them so unique, and, in my opinion, one of the premier dining destinations in Northern Michigan. Just for the record, I don’t own the restaurant. I am not their manager. I am not their chef. I’m the baker at Audie’s, and I began working with the Jaggi family (it’s pronounced Yāgē ) when I was eighteen—way back in October, 1976.

Go ahead; take a moment to do the math. I’ve certainly been around long enough to have formed some pretty fair opinions about how Audie’s stacks up in the face of so much competition. I believe the Jaggi family has created something special in the Straits area. When they asked if I’d like to write this piece on their behalf, I jumped at the chance. It’s not often one has an opportunity to spill the beans about their employer!

From a historic perspective, we’ve been serving great food from our location (Exit 339 on I-75 North, Mackinaw City) since the “Mighty Mac” was built. Chef Edgar Jaggi and his wife, Audrey, purchased the business in 1972 and the family has continued to enhance the menu and enrich our community ever since. Edgar, a traditional old-world chef, trained in the classical style synonymous with the finest European hotels. His high expectations and artistry have set the standard at Audie’s—a legacy which continues to this day.

The Audie’s success story didn’t happen overnight; it involved years of careful management while raising the five Jaggi children in a cramped two bedroom apartment in the back of the restaurant. Kids have always been a part of the landscape around the restaurant. First, there was Jaggi’s own brood and all their friends and then a generation of employees’ children for whom the warmth of Audie’s “behind the scenes” became as familiar as home. Many of these youngsters went on to make Audie’s their very first “real” job and often returned to work each summer right through their college years.

My tenure at this restaurant is not exceptional; two of the waitresses have worked here for over forty years. In fact, most of the crew has worked here at least a decade or more. So it’s really no surprise that lots of kids that began stopping with their parents for a meal and to greet the familiar faces in our dining room years ago, are now bringing their grandchildren to visit. Is it any wonder that for so many people, Audie’s is family?

Today, Edgar and Audrey’s son, Nicklaus, carries on those traditions. “Home schooled” in the craft at his father’s side as a youth, Nick later studied business at Northwood University and then went on to the Culinary Institute of America, in Hyde Park, New York to hone his epicurean skills. After this intense certification, he “paid his dues” working in Switzerland—his father’s homeland—for a year, then returned to spend many more years managing our kitchen.

As his parents began to anticipate their retirement, Nick purchased the restaurant and his labors began in earnest. I believe his strong work ethic and rock-solid business foundation have been key to Nick’s achievements. In the “back of the house,” Nick sets a brisk pace. He leads by example. And, like his father, he often mentors youth seeking a vocation in the hospitality industry. Today, the restaurant continues to evolve—blossom—under his stewardship.

Admiring the landscaping in front of the restaurant won’t reveal the distinctive atmosphere beyond the façade—come on in! Audie’s actually hosts four dining options under one roof. Our “Family Room” is a perennial favorite for the casual diner and families vacationing in the Straits area. Feel free to take a stroll around the generous dining room and experience the museum-quality photography and historic artifacts that chronicle the construction of the iconic Mackinac Bridge. The Family Room has a time-tested, expansive menu. We also have a beautiful, fresh salad bar that pairs nicely with Chef Dwayne’s homemade soups. His New England clam chowder, with its subtle hint of rubbed sage and real cream, is my personal favorite. Hmm…or maybe I prefer the chicken rice made with our house-recipe Armenian Rice Pilaf. No matter which soup you choose, you’re going to be back for more!

Don’t forget to stop in for breakfast. Our giant cinnamon rolls are served with a bit of butter on the side. Just like everything from our bakery, they’re made from scratch. Hey, we’re talking yeast and warm water and that INCREDIBLE smell... ahh! (Take it from me, never trust a skinny baker!)

Our Chippewa Room opens @ 5 PM and offers fine dining in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. I love the tasteful Native American décor, and you will too. The menu features Elk, Whitefish, Walleye, hand-cut steaks and in-season favorites including morel mushrooms—all prepared to order and certain to please. Nick’s fiancée, Katie Kosorski, is our certified Sommelier and our wine list received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. She’ll be happy to recommend a wonderful wine or hand-crafted cocktail to create the perfect pairing for your meal. Be sure to save room for a generous portion of our amazing New York-style cheesecake or Bananas Foster prepared tableside!

My husband and I often refer to Audie’s “Welcome Lounge” as Northern Michigan’s best kept secret. It’s a warm, cozy room in a casual lodge style and features Chef Nick’s trophy mounts. Here you’ll find local wildlife on display including whitetail deer, otter, beaver, ermine, bobcat, mink and more. You also find plenty of locals enjoying a cold draft beer, cocktail or a glass of wine with friends and having a bite to eat—a full menu is available. This is also what Nick calls his “living room,” and you’re sure to bump into him after a busy night of catering.

Just beyond the lounge, you’ll find our banquet room. It’s a convenient venue for your wedding reception, sportsman’s dinner or class reunion. We also host wine tastings, dinner theaters and many special events for the community.

The Audie’s crew caters year ‘round—everything from small family get-togethers to 2,500 boy scouts at a rendezvous. On a busy night, you might see an Audie’s van at Lighthouse Pointe in St. Ignace catering an outdoor wedding, an Audie’s van at Mackinaw City’s Headlands catering a beach-front wedding and our Banquet Room rockin’ with a local class reunion or a group touring the Straits area.

I’ve enjoyed sharing just a few of the things I love best about Audie’s, but don’t take my word for it—stop by soon to discover your own perfectly “unique dining experience”!

Robin Westfall
Audie’s Restaurant - We’re Open Year ‘Round!
314 N Nicolet Street, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
231-436-5744
www.audies.com

WMTA Is On The Road!

Judy and Shannon working the WMTA booth!

It is a busy time for us here at the WMTA; our travel trade show season. Each year our season is kicked off with the Brenton Village Travel Expo in Grand Rapids. We attended this show this past weekend and we are now in full trade show mode!

Every year the WMTA travels around the mid-west promoting the best of West Michigan. Restaurants, hotels, spas, resorts, places to go, things to do, and everything to see- we tell people about it! It sure is a good all of us WMTA staffers love to talk! Travel shows are actually really quite fun for us to do. We get to brag about our lovely state, meet some fantastic travelers, and the people watching is hands down  fabulous.

This year you will be able to find us in places such as Chicago, Novi, Lansing, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis and of course Grand Rapids.

Trade show season isn’t just a busy time for us. It is also an extremely busy time for Showspan. Showspan is a company that has over 60 years experience producing successful consumer shows. Every year they put on a handful of shows that attract a range of people; from the outdoor enthusiast to wine connoisseurs, they host a show for everyone. We especially love Showspan shows because the people are great to work with and they always have a wonderful turn out of attendees.

Michigan International Auto Show

This year they have already hosted two successful shows in Grand Rapids; the International Food and Wine Festival and the Camper, Travel and RV Show. I was able to attend the Food and Wine Festival and had a great time. The show was flawless and the set up was beautiful. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves- vendors included!

Showspan has three great shows coming up in our neck of the woods within the next few weeks and we want to send 4 lucky winners to each of them! This week we are giving away 2 pairs of tickets to each of the three following shows to 4 lucky winners (that sounds really confusing doesn’t it?) Basically, 4 people will be receiving 2 tickets to each of the three shows (re-worded is still confusing, but you get the point right?)

The shows are…

-          The Michigan International Auto Show- February 3-6

-          The West Michigan Golf Show- February 11-13

-          The Grand Rapids Boat Show- February 16-20

You could attend a show every weekend! However, if you do not win there have a whole list of shows to attend

-          Outdoorama- Novi- February 24-27 (We will be there!)

-          Cottage and Lakefront Living Show- Detroit- February 24-27

-          West Michigan Home and Garden Show- Grand Rapids-  March 3-6

-          Michigan Home and Garden Show- Pontiac- March 11-13

-          Ultimate Sport Show- Grand Rapids- March 17-20

-          Lansing Home and Garden Show- Lansing- March 17-20

-          Cottage and Lakefront Living- Grand Rapids- March 25-27

-          Backyard Pool and Spa Show- Novi- March 25-27

West Michigan Golf Show

All you have to do to win these tickets is just tell us what Spring activity you are looking forward to the most.

I am off to Chicago for the week promoting, what I think is the best, of the mid-west! 

Stay warm, West Michigan!

--Kelly

Weekend Idea Round-Up

This week's giveaway answers tickle me so, graduating with an art major/art history minor once upon a time in my schooling days. The great thing about art is how it varies so, how it uniquely speaks to each individual. Even looking at the same piece at different times in your life will conjure a different set of emotions and experience.

I've decided to display everyone's favorites, including my own, for an artful Friday feast for your eyes.

Hippo and the Hand by Peter Beard

The Seine At Asnieres by Pierre Auguste Renoir

Summer Sun by Dale Chihuly

The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali

Diego a la Chemise Ecossaise by Alberto Giacometti

The Dance by Henri Matisse

Water Lilies by Claude Monet

The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn

Lying Cow by Vincent Van Gogh

And the winner is...

The Night Watch, i.e. Ethan! 

Congratulations, Ethan. Please send me an e-mail at shannon@wmta.org so we can hook you up with your Muskegon Museum of Art prize pack.

Inspiration has surely settled in, so spend this weekend celebrating art. Here are a few ideas in our Weekend Idea Round-Up, and as always, creative and cultural events in West Michigan can always be found at WMTA's art preview.

High five,

-Shannon

Starting This Weekend

• Houghton Lake: Tip-Up Town USA
• Grand Rapids Art Museum: Class Pictures: Photographs by Dawoud Bey
• South Haven Center for the Arts: Regional Juried Art Exhibit

All Weekend

• Gaylord: Treetops Resort: Fabulous 50's Weekend

Saturday

• Fennville: Fenn Valley Vineyards: Chili Cookoff & Wine Lovers Potluck
• Interlochen Center for the Arts: Joshua Roman with the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra
• Shanty Creek: Beer & Boards Microbrew Festival

Saturday & Sunday

• White Lake Area Perch Festival
• Grand Rapids: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: Orchid Show

Don't Forget

• Grand Rapids Art Museum: Diana - A Celebration and Selections from 100 Years/100 Works of Art
• Grand Rapids: Gerald R. Ford Museum: Betty Ford - An Extraordinary Life
• Grand Rapids Public Museum: Bodies Revealed
• Muskegon Museum of Art: Splendid Threads, Secret Messages: The Language of Japanese Kimonos and We Are the Ship: the Story of Negro League Baseball
• South Haven Center for the Arts: Circus Exhibit by Joan Bonnet

Giveaway Reminders

Hello to you, West Michigan readers! I just need to take care of a little business this morning. Giveaways. We love giving you amazing mitten prizes, but we seem to be having a rather hard time actually giving them away. If you enter a contest, please do one of two things:

1. Check back on Friday to see if you've won. It's that easy. Please don't forget about us after you enter, for you could have some rockin' prize waiting for you and not know it. 
2. If you feel comfortable doing so, leave your e-mail address in your entry. If you have a Blogger profile, make it public and leave some way of contacting you. 

All of our contest winners are chosen at random, i.e. pulling numbers out of a jar, so including contact information won't necessarily increase your chances of winning, but it will certainly give us a way to let you know if you do.

We do our best to find you, but if we don't hear from you in two weeks, your prize is forfeited, and we will select another winner. Sorry, that's just the way it works.

Want that Crystal Mountain season pass?

One such amazing prize is a season pass to Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, Thompsonville. This poor certificate is just lingering in my desk drawer as our snow levels rise, and winter fun waits. We want to get this in somebody's hands ASAP. There's world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding waiting for one happy winner... and it could still be you.

The first person to e-mail (shannon@wmta.org) will be our winner. It's that simple. Just say, "Shannon! I want to go boarding and/or skiing!" and it will be yours. On your mark. Get set. Go!

(Update: Congratulations to Kevin! Enjoy the snow at Crystal and tell us how wonderful it is.)

Don't forget this week's giveaway!

This beautifully-done book, two tickets to the Muskegon Museum of Art, and a $20 gift certificate to the museum's amazing gift shop could be yours (I wanted to do all my Christmas shopping there).

The tickets and certificate can be used at any time, perhaps as a trip to see one of these upcoming exhibits:

• WE ARE THE SHIP: The Story of Negro League Baseball (January 13 through March 13, 2011)
• Postcard Salon (January 27–February 3)
• Upcycling! Creating More with Less (February 3 through April 3, 2011)
• Primal Inspirations/Contemporary Artifacts (February 17 – April 10, 2011)

The winner will be drawn tomorrow. Simply go to the original post and leave us a comment on your favorite artist or piece of artwork. 

Meanwhile, thank you to those who participated in our first West Michigan Wednesday. Start taking pictures for next week!

High five,

-Shannon

Welcome to West Michigan Wednesday!

Good morning, West Michigan, and welcome to our inaugural West Michigan Wednesday. At the risk of being entirely redundant, this is a celebration of West Michigan via photographs. I whole heartedly believe Michigan is the most beautiful state, with such varying landscapes from our expansive lake and sandy beaches to dense forests and dramatic weather patterns. I also know that Michiganders love their state to a fault and have pride in it like no other. All this leads to an incredible variety of images, and that's what West Michigan Wednesday is all about!

Each Wednesday, West Michigan Weekly will transform into a showcase of images celebrating West Michigan. From 9 am Wednesday to 9 am Thursday, photographers can post their images with a link to his or her blog or Flickr (or any other webpage) using simple Linky Tools. It can be done in three easy steps:

1. Copy the West Michigan Wednesday icon to your blog entry or link it to West Michigan Weekly.
2. When the meme opens at 9 am on each Wednesday, a Linky link posted on the West Michigan Wednesday post will walk you through the photo loading process.
3. Visit West Michigan Weekly and take in the amazing photos!

Please be patient with us this first week as we are also trying to figure out how it will work. If you have any questions, leave a comment or e-mail me at shannon@wmta.org.

Good luck and high five!

-Shannon

Get Those Cameras Ready!

Here at the WMTA, we are thrilled for our newest weekly blog post "West Michigan Wednesday".  In fact, we are so excited about it that we are taking a week off of our "Where To Eat This Week" posts to remind all of our wonderful readers that tomorrow is the very first day to post their West Michigan pictures. For those of you who do not know what "West Michigan Wednesday" is, it is pretty simple. We know very well how easy it is to take wonderful pictures throughout West Michigan but once you get home and upload them to your computer you wonder, "What am I going to do with all of these?" Well, West Michigan Weekly is now creating an outlet for these. We want to see and want you to share your pictures! "West Michigan Wednesday" will be a portal for all West Michigan travelers to share and interact with fellow travelers.  It is easy to do and will only take a few minutes of your time. For instructions I think Shannon said it best in her post last week...


Each Wednesday, West Michigan Weekly will transform into a showcase of images celebrating West Michigan. From 9 am Wednesday to 9 am Thursday, bloggers can post their images here using simple Linky Tools. It can be done in three easy steps:

1. Copy the West Michigan Wednesday icon to your blog entry or link it to West Michigan Weekly. 
2. When the meme opens at 9 am on each Wednesday, a Linky link posted on the West Michigan Wednesday post will walk you through the photo loading process. 
3. Visit West Michigan Weekly and take in the amazing photos!

Here are a few noteworthy photograph memes as examples:

• Lensday
• Weekend Reflections
• World Bird Wednesday
• Sky Watch Friday

Post them to our blog every Wednesday and share your love of West Michigan with our readers. We are cannot wait to see all your fabulous pictures! So get those cameras ready, West Michigan- tomorrow is your first day to post!

--Kelly 

World-Class Art

Art: such a vague word, yet one that stirs such emotion in so many.We surround ourselves with its imagery and learn the names of all the greats. We create it. We debate it. We search for it in unexpected places. We find that one piece that so perfectly wraps up what we're feeling, who we are, and attach ourselves wholeheartedly to its aesthetics and meanings. A three letter word with such power...

Tornado Over Kansas by John Steuart Curry

Recently, a friend and I were having a long-winded debate about art, not an unusual occurrence, when the conversation shifted to his time spent studying in Italy. He was wandering through a museum one day when he came across a chaotic piece depicting a family's race to safety from the twisting funnel in the background. The sign next to it read:

John Steuart Curry 
Tornado Over Kansas
Oil on canvas, 1929
Muskegon Museum of Art

Muskegon! Here he was, a West Michigan resident, wandering the globe to define art, only to discover the treasures from his own backyard. After his shock subsided, pride swelled.

New York Restaurant by Edward Hopper

Impressive is the word that comes to mind when I think of the Muskegon Museum of Art. Their permanent collection is home to world-class pieces by the likes of Edward Hopper, Winslow Homer, and Dale Chihuly. Their programming is so well planned and well rounded that each time I see the newest line-up, I'm speechless. For each exhibit, they have a dozen or so separate events including films, children's activities, lectures and performances. The calendar is just as dizzying as the twister in their most famous painting!

The newest exhibit is no different. WE ARE THE SHIP: The Story of Negro League Baseball, Original Paintings by Kadir Nelson opened on January 13. Award-winning artist and author Kadir Nelson gave a decade of his life to the study of the history of Negro League baseball, ultimately producing 33 paintings for his book which became a New York Times bestseller and received the Coretta Scott King Author Award. This nationally touring exhibition highlights these paintings and the 13 preliminary sketches that "speak to the Negro League’s overwhelming success despite the daunting odds against it".

Josh Gibson by Kadir Nelson

From the MMA website:

We Are the Ship tells the story of gifted athletes and determined owners; of racial discrimination and international sportsmanship; of fortunes won and lost; of triumphs and defeats on and off the field. It is a mirror for the social and political history of black America in the first half of the 20th century. Most of all, it is a story of the hundreds of unsung heroes of the Negro Leagues who overcame segregation, hatred, terrible conditions, and low pay to do the one thing they loved most: play ball.

This Week's Giveaway!

We want you to experience this amazing exhibit and museum, that's why this week, we're giving away an awesome Muskegon Museum of Art prize pack which includes:

• Two admission tickets to MMA
• $20 gift certificate to the Museum's gift store
• A copy of WE ARE THE SHIP: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson
  

 To enter, simply tell us what your favorite artist or artwork, and we'll draw the winner on Friday, January 21. Good luck!

High five,

-Shannon

Weekend Idea Round-Up

"Roof! I love the mitten!" - Scooter

Happy Friday, West Michigan Weekly readers!It's certainly been a fun day here at the WMTA headquarters, mostly from our new four legged friend, Scooter.Tom Blossfeld, Northwest Account Manager, was adopted by Scooter last weekend -yes, she adopted him - and today she's been keeping us company, merrily trotting from one office to the next, greeting each of us with a sloppy kiss and wag of the tail. You can always tell where she's at by the comments floating through the air. One minute I'll hear Kelly say "Look at your big puppy eyes. I love them!" then a moment later Judy will call "No jelly beans for you! Get outta there." She'll finally come to my side, giving me a lovable look and a needed break from working on this year's travel guide. Perhaps she's the West Michigan Wonder Pit?

Isn't it amazing how quickly we bond with dogs? They're certainly man's best friend, which is why so many love to keep them close even during their travels. Scooter gives me the perfect opportunity to plug West Michigan's many dog-friendly establishments (including our office!). If you're planning a trip with your favorite canine, be sure to check out this page.

Now on to today's Cartier Mansion announcement! Are you on the edge of your seats with suspense? I certainly hope so.

And the winner is...

Camilla!

Congratulations, Camilla. Please send me your address at shannon@wmta.org by January 28th, and I'll mail out your certificate.

As always, here is a list of great events happening this weekend. Be sure to have your cameras poised and ready for the start of West Michigan Wednesday next week. I can't wait to see your photos!

High five,

-Shannon

All Weekend

• Grand Rapids: DeVos Place: 5th Annual Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show
• Grand Rapids: Van Andel Arena: Cirque du Soleil - Dralion
• Lewiston: Garland Lodge & Resort: Winterfest

Friday & Saturday

• Mackinaw City 18th Annual Winterfest

Saturday

• Interlochen Center for the Arts: Jaleel Shaw
• Gaylord: Treetops Resort: Rail Jams and Dog Sled Rides
• Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground: Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Animal Show and Weekend Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Farmers Market

Saturday & Sunday

• Grand Rapids Public Museum: Topics in Health Care Lecture Series
• Kalkaska Winterfest
• Jones: Swiss Valley Ski Area: Snowmeister 2011

Starting This Weekend

• Muskegon Museum of Art: We Are the Ship: the Story of Negro League Baseball 

Don't Forget

• Grand Rapids Art Museum: Diana - A Celebration and Selections from 100 Years/100 Works of Art
• Grand Rapids: Gerald R. Ford Museum: Betty Ford - An Extraordinary Life
• Grand Rapids Public Museum: Bodies Revealed
• Muskegon Museum of Art: Splendid Threads, Secret Messages: The Language of Japanese Kimonos and The Enduring Gifts of Martin A. Ryerson
• South Haven Center for the Arts: Circus Exhibit by Joan Bonnet and Wonders of the Woven World Exhibition

Snow and Ice- How nice!

I love how the winter brings on so many unique events. I am always amazed by the incredible event ideas people come up with! Tuesday was no different. After perusing around the Internet early Tuesday morning, I came across an “Ice Battle” in downtown Grand Rapids. Being the curious soul that I am, I just had to look more into it. Turns out, some local ice carvers were turning Rosa Parks Circle (the ice skating rink downtown) into a large chess board and they were carving life size chess pieces out of ice. What!? I yelled across the hall to Shannon and told her we had to go check this out for ourselves.

Off we went. Making our way downtown.

--Now, I am going to let you in on a little secret. I knocked over every cone on my parallel-parking drivers test years ago, yet I somehow still managed to pass the test. To this day it is still a mystery to me. I decided this would be a good story to tell Shannon on our way downtown because I knew that most likely, we would have to parallel park. I was REALLY hoping there wouldn’t be any spots available on the street and we would be forced to park in a ramp. But of COURSE there was a spot on the street- RIGHT in front of where we needed to go. A spot most normal people would not pass up. (I would rather walk a mile than have to Parallel Park). “You can do it! You’ll be great!”, Shannon says to me as I nauseously look at the spot. With her confidence instilled in me, I tried my hardest.

Apparently my hardest was not hard enough. I ended up about a foot away from the curb and barely in the spot. So being the brilliant young ladies that we are, we decided to have Shannon try it instead. I hopped out of the car and started guiding her in. Well, Shannon definitely made up for the big gap I had originally left. She came so close to the curb that she actually went up on it! After a little finagling she made it in the spot (and off the curb). --

After our parking fiasco, we were off to the event. It was amazing to see how many people came down in the middle of their workday to check it out. The chessboard was unreal and larger than life. The fact that these guys can create this kind of art out of ice just blows my mind! We watched a live carving right in front of us where they used chainsaws and blowtorches to magically create one of the knights. They then set the board and were ready to play- but before they started one of their staff accidentally knocked over one of the pieces! (Insert dramatic gasp here!) Luckily they had a few backup pieces to play with.

It was awesome to see this event happen right in front of us, and I was once again reminded of just how unique West Michigan is. Did you know that there are two life size chessboards that are totally playable in West Michigan? Castle Farms and the Inn at Bay Harbor each have one!

Right now there are so many fun and innovative winter events such as the one Shannon and I went to on Tuesday, that happen throughout the season in different West Michigan destinations. We have made a list of all the winter festivals taking place this year and encourage everyone to check at least one out. Your mind will be blown at the incredible things that can be done with ice and snow!

Mackinaw City 18th Annual Winterfest

January 13 - 15

Winterfest- Garland

January 14 - 16

Snowfest 2011- Muskegon

January 25 - 29

Newaygo Winterfest

January 26 - 30

Grand Haven Winterfest

January 27 - 30

Snowfest - The North American Snow Festival- Cadillac

February 3 - 6

Winterfest 2011- Benzie County

February 12

Winter Wow!Fest- Traverse City

February 18 - 21

Gun Lake Winterfest 2011

February 18 - 20

For a complete list- check out our Winter Festival Preview here. 

We have also announced a new winner for the Chateau Chantal giveaway! Jen from Big Binder has won the VIP wine tasting for 6! Congrats Jen!

Stay Warm!

- Kelly

Picture This: West Michigan Wednesday

Muskegon Lake

The low light of the setting sun glistening across the waves of Lake Michigan. Catching air in a brilliant stunt at a ski resort. A child aglow when coming face to face with a giraffe at the zoo. West Michigan is certainly full of amazing photo ops, and there's no shortage of photographers, professional and amateur, that are posed to capture each moment.

At West Michigan Weekly, we salute you and the images you create! We celebrate all the beauty our home has to offer, and this is why we have created a weekly photo meme as a way to share and spread what we are so lucky to see every day.

Introducing West Michigan Wednesday...

A meme is a grouping of cultural ideas. In this case, each Wednesday, West Michigan Weekly will transform into a showcase of images celebrating West Michigan. From 9 am Wednesday to 9 am Thursday, bloggers can post their images here using simple Linky Tools. It can be done in three easy steps:

1. Copy the forthcoming West Michigan Wednesday icon to your blog entry or link it to West Michigan Weekly. 
2. When the meme opens at 9 am on each Wednesday, a Linky link posted on the West Michigan Wednesday post will walk you through the photo loading process. 
3. Visit West Michigan Weekly and take in the amazing photos!

Here are a few noteworthy photograph memes as examples:

• Lensday
• Weekend Reflections
• World Bird Wednesday
• Sky Watch Friday

Get those cameras ready, West Michigan!

High five,

-Shannon

Lakefront Dining and Relaxation

I must say, I am one lucky girl. A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of eating at the Terrace Grille located inside the Bay Pointe Inn, in Shelbyville. Nestled on Gun Lake, the restaurant offers breathtaking views and an absolutely incredible menu. My mouth waters just thinking about the meal I ate there- Baked Brie, New York Strip, and of course the Peanut Butter Waffle Sundae. YUM!

Scott Marlett the General Manager of Bay Pointe Inn has written a fabulous blog this week about the restaurant. He talks about a few of my personal favorite dishes and a few others I can’t wait to go back and try! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the Bay Pointe Inn, it should definitely be on your list. Located on beautiful Gun Lake, it is the perfect getaway for any season. And of course, you can’t beat the food at the Terrace Grille.

I’ll let Scott do the talking now…

“One of Michigan’s Top Resorts” Bay Pointe Inn features 38 elegant guest rooms, resort

amenities, a lakefront event pavilion, Fireside Banquet & Conference Center and the Terrace Grille Restaurant. 2010 was a great year for Bay Pointe Inn with the opening of the Fireside Banquet & Conference Center, the introduction of Gun Lake Live, new menus featuring fresh local products, our Sixth Anniversary and of course the Wakeboarding Wedding which if you haven’t seen it, check out the clip on our wedding page. 2011 promises to be an even better year with the return of Gun Lake Live, the new Gun Lake Casino opening in February and even more creative and innovative menus. Today’s goal is to focus on getting to know the Terrace Grille and what it means to enjoy lakefront dining and relaxation.

The Terrace Grille is known for its panoramic views of Gun Lake, designer inspired décor, 90 seat outdoor patio, casual upscale dining with a menu featuring food prepared from scratch and innovative handcrafted cocktails. Combine that with exceptional personalized service and it is easy to see why the Terrace Grille has become a local and regional favorite. Centrally located between Grand Rapids & Kalamazoo, the resort is an easy 30 minute drive from either city. Executive Chef Tom Fowler joined the team in January 2009 and has developed a culinary team that shares his passion for producing remarkable food.

Without further adieu, let’s talk about the food and cocktails. After choosing a booth or table overlooking the lake you will find yourself ready to indulge in a cocktail handcrafted to promote lakefront relaxation, Mike’s Perfect Margarita. Owner Mike & Patti Power’s personal recipe with Ultra Premium Patron Silver, Grand Marnier, Organic Italian Lemon Juice, Fresh Lime Juice and Organic Agave Nectar. Not in the mood for a cocktail, try a glass or bottle of wine from our list of carefully selected wines by master sommelier Cecil Robbins. With drinks on the way and relaxation the goal, it is time for an appetizer. My personal favorite, the Baked Brie comes out like a work of art. Imported brie, topped with pear and cranberry chutney, wrapped in a puff pastry, baked until golden, complimented by candied pecans, poached pear and grilled French baguettes. While I have been caught staring at it, someone must always be the first to cut it and indulge. There is just enough sweet to make it feel as though sneaking dessert before dinner and it is worth every bite. A fresh house salad and cup of Bay Pointe’s Seafood Chowder paired with fresh baked bread, olive oil and herbs served tableside follows.

 

Having heard the daily Fresh Catch, often irresistible, I still always find myself drawn to two staples on the menu, the “Original Bay Pointe” Beef Wellington and the Otto’s Farm Chicken. The Otto’s Chicken is the embodiment of fresh and local with an Airline Chicken Breast from Middleville’s Otto’s Farm carefully prepared with a fine herb and lavender crust. It is served with potato leek gratin, cauliflower puree, a fresh vegetable mélange and a Michigan blueberry glace made with local Fustini’s Blueberry Balsamic Vinegar. The “Original Bay Pointe Beef Wellington is a mouthwatering filet mignon, duxelle and boursin cheese wrapped in a puff pastry. Garlic and chive whipped potatoes, fresh vegetable mélange and Madiera demi-glace accentuate the dish. Enjoy a glass of Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon. Visiting a friends table in the Terrace Grille last night revealed this same combination of entrees as if coached and they

were well on their way to Lakefront Relaxation.

While the inner child finds it tough to resist the Peanut Butter Waffle Sundae, I am often drawn to the Michigan Crème Brulee. This rich traditional crème brulee is made with 100% Michigan maple syrup and topped with tart blueberry compote and served with a sugar cookie. Most choose to unwind with a cup of house Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee from Grand Rapids’ Ferris Coffee.

After an unforgettable dining experience, most guests stroll around the resort, take a tour of the rooms or meeting and event spaces…keeping in mind that family member or friend looking for a wedding venue, upcoming anniversary or that annual sales meeting coming down the pipe. Our professional sales team is available for more information, but certainly no more than a phone call or email away. events@baypointeinn.com

Sundays, the Terrace Grille features an extraordinary brunch with Chef Carved Prime Rib and Omelet Station. Special Holiday Brunches are available Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Thanksgiving. February promises an amazing Valentine’s Celebration so keep an eye on our events page or sign up for our e-mail specials through our website.

Thanks for taking the time to learn more about Bay Pointe Inn and the Terrace Grille on historic Gun Lake. We truly hope you take the opportunity to be our guest in 2011. Please come and experience Lakefront Dining and Relaxation at “One of Michigan’s Top Resorts!”

Scott Marlett

General Manager

Bay Pointe Inn & Terrace Grille

1-888-GUN-LAKE 269-672-8111

www.baypointeinn.com