The week-long series of beer-centric events will be held at participating venues in Detroit, with satellite events at Metro-Detroit brewpubs. These events will consist of brewery tours, tasting flights, meet-the-brewer sessions, food pairings, and a wide array of other unique activities. Events will be hosted by Detroit Beer Week staff and the Detroit Beer Barons, a group of Metro-area brewery personalities.

“We wanted to stay away from the traditional ‘drink this beer, get a keychain’ –type promotions, and instead focus on events that give value to the consumer and to the venue hosting the event,” stated Jon Piepenbrok, principal organizer of the events, AKA Chief Imaginationer.

The grand finale of Beer Week is the Inaugural Harvest Festival, hosted by the Michigan Brewers’ Guild and Metrotimes on Saturday, October 24, in Eastern Market.

While the Guild is not organizing Beer Week events, they have given their full support and cooperation to the organizing committee. “When the Guild announced the Harvest Festival in Eastern Market, we not only saw an opportunity to promote Michigan Beer in southeast Michigan,” stated Jon Piepenbrok, “but to promote the Great City of Detroit, as well; and the Guild has been extremely supportive of our efforts, even including information about events on their website at www.michiganbrewersguild.org.”

The participating venues include Slow’s Bar BQ, Foran’s Grand Trunk Pub, Park Bar, Motor City Brewing Works, Traffic Jam & Snug, Atwater Block Brewery, Detroit Beer Company, Wolfgang Puck Grille, Michael Symon’s Roast, 24Grille, and Fender’s Pub at the Omni Hotel.

A complete, updated list of events and information can be found Facebook.

Michigan’s thriving brewing industry contributes over $24 million in wages with a total economic contribution of more than $133 million. In terms of overall number breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs, Michigan ranks #6 in the nation – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State.”

The Michigan Brewers Guild exists to unify the Michigan brewing community; to increase sales of Michigan-brewed beer through promotions, marketing, public awareness and consumer education; and to monitor and assure a healthy beer industry within the state. For more information, including a list of Michigan microbreweries, log on to www.michiganbrewersguild.org.

So we present to you:

Be A Tourist In Your Own Town brought to you by the fine folks at the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau. Consider organizing one in your area!

About Be A Tourist In Your Own Town

Fifteen years ago, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau created this event to increase community awareness of it's attractions and the tourism industry's impact on the area. So once again the doors are open for you to explore culture and creativity in mid-Michigan.

As Lansing celebrates its 150th anniversary, take this opportunity to enjoy attractions that highlight both Lansing’s unique history as well as its innovative and progressive future. This year they have included old favorites such as Impression 5 Science Center, Potter Park Zoo and the Michigan Historical Museum, and added new hot spots like the FRAG Center, MSU’s Breslin Center, WKAR Studios and taste the new “Capital City Sundae” ice cream flavor at the MSU Dairy Store. You can view a complete list of the participating places to go and things right here.

How it Works:

For only $1 you can purchase a “passport” which allows you FREE admission to more than 60 area attractions, local businesses, and special activities on May 30, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. **Ages 3 and under do not require a passport. Get from place to place with CATA. For only 50 cents you will receive a stamp which will allow you to ride the Be A Tourist routes for the rest of the day for no extra charge.

Check out a slideshow of the Lansing area from the Absolute Michigan Flickr pool!

morel spring 2008 by baldo1man

When an avid morel mushroom hunter stands before 250 people recounting a time when he walked out of the woods wearing only his underwear, socks and shoes, giggles burst but people listen. Finding the elusive morel is no laughing matter, but to the attendees of the morel hunting lecture at the 49th National Annual Morel Mushroom Festival in Boyne City, the entertainment was as delicious as the soup - seasoned with laughter and emboldened with rich enthusiasm.

After watching culinary guru John Sheets prepare a mouth-watering array of wild edibles, the crowd listened as native Anthony Williams recounted tales of his morel hunting lineage, sharing tricks and tips passed down through generations. Afterward, he shared a morel song accompanied by his wife, Robin Lee Berry. No one would walk away from Friday's festivities empty-handed.

Boyne City Sunset by rickrjw

What Boyne City offers this weekend is more than just words. Yesterday organizers and volunteers from the community accompanied four bus loads of hungry hunters, through private land, to search and pick as they will again today. Experts offered suggestions and visitors shared in the excitement of discovering their first morel. Not everyone walked away with something in their sack, but each person had the opportunity to inspect this elusive mushroom--some place other than their dinner plate or produce aisle. Immediately following, attendees were invited to celebrate at the Morelfest Wine and Dine, which featured an elegant five course morel-themed dinner with wine pairings. The evening ended with live music from blues artist Larry McCray on Lake Charlevoix.

Weekend events remain and there is still time to join in the fun! Saturday (May 16) offers another full day of activities, beginning with a morel breakfast, followed by a hunting competition; there will be a cooking demonstration by an award-winning chef; a craft-fair, where you can purchase morel inspired walking sticks, wood carvings, mesh morel-picking bags, jams, jellies and many other treats; a carnival to entertain the children or satisfy the inner-child, and another chance to experience great music with Twisted Finster. If you are anywhere in the vicinity of Boyne City, grab your family and friends and join in the fun!

...and just why was a morel hunter walking out of the woods in his underwear?

Apparently Tony had discovered "the mother lode" and, rather than leave them, utilized the remainder of his clothing to carry home the all the morels. Although he made no promises, with generous spirit and good humor he offered some of his secrets and instilled hope in a new generation of mushroom hunters.

Click for the all the details of the Boyne City Morel Festival or grab your Michigan map and head to Boyne City.

Morels ! by cedarkayak

The latest issue of Midwest Living feature on the Best Midwest Food Towns served up a platefull of restaurants in our region that might entice the culinary tourist. Their editors selected Traverse City as the #2 town and Ann Arbor #3. Also featured were a collection of recipes from Traverse City including Morel Mushroom Cream Sauce With Pasta and a Creme Fraiche from Shetler's Dairy.

The Detroit City Council's proposal to demolish Michigan Central Station as a means to bring in Federal stimulus dollars seemed to many to have all the brilliance of a plan to get rich quick by selling both your kidneys. Now the Detroit News reports that developer Manuel (Matty) Moroun is proposing to lease Michigan Central Station to the United States government for redevelopment. The Department of Homeland Security offices for Customs and Border Protection are seeking to lease almost 50,000 square feet of space in the Detroit area to house personnel.

Of surprise to nobody - outside of State government at least - the Detroit News is reporting that Michigan's agricultural industry is bucking the trend of decline:

The state's overall agricultural industry -- which includes not only farming but also food processing and biofuels, wineries and beer-making -- grew 12 percent to $71.3 billion in revenue in 2007, following several years of single-digit growth; 2008 figures are not yet available.

...Some 100 agri-food businesses have started in Michigan during the past five years, according to the MDA.

Imagine what we could do if we really invested in building and promoted our agricultural bounty.

Edward Vielmetti has a tasty post that includes Michigan's morel festivals and the book How to Find Morels by Milan Pelouch. Even more about morels at Absolute Michigan keyword morel!

morel mushroom by Latitude 45

The Boyne City National Morel Mushroom Festival takes place May 14-17, 2009. This year is the 49th annual*, and the 4 day celebration of the morel mushroom includes a morel seminar and guided mushroom hunt on Friday and of course the Boyne Valley Lions National Mushroom Hunt on on Saturday (be sure to display your finds on the Mushroom Pole too!). In addition to the Taste of Morel event where you get to try all manner of morel dishes, there is a seminar on foraging & cooking with wild food guru John Sheets and another on hunting with local expert Tony Williams, concerts with Michigan Blues legend Larry McCray and others, there's a carnival, euchre & poker tournaments, zany car race and plenty of fun for kids.

One of the highlights of the weekend is the "Morel Taste of Boyne" featuring a Chef's Challenge along with the area's finest restaurants in the big tent on Saturday afternoon serving different morel dishes and also presenting morel cooking demonstrations. This is the largest morel cooking (and eating) event in the world!

You can grab your sweetie and get warmed up with The Mushroomers Waltz and if you're hungry,Lake Magazine has a recipe for morel & hazelnut soup that looks very simple but very tasty! Chef Eric Villegas of the TV show Fork in the Road offers a recipe for midwestern risotto of carnaroli and minnesota wild rice, morel mushrooms and white truffle oil that looks more complex but every bit as tasty.

MichiganMorels.com reminds you that you can eat any mushroom ... once. They offer tips to help keep you safe, but the biggest tip is to hunt with someone who knows what they're doing! Speaking of hunting, here's a video interview of morel expert Tom Nauman that gives you a couple useful tips for morel hunting.

If you can't attend the Mushroom Festival and can't get to any morel-filled woods, you can still get morels (and leeks and other tasty treasures) courtesy of Michigan-based Earthy Delights.

Visitors will want to visit the Boyne City Chamber of Commerce and/or try Absolute Michigan keyword "Boyne" for lodging and other information. I thought it was pretty funny that the best article online about the Boyne City Mushroom Festival is from a Pittsburgh, PA newspaper. It's from May of 2003 but has great background on the festival with a focus on the National Mushroom Hunting Championship. Check out Boyne City mushroom championship has no lack of morels.

* Next year the 50th annual takes place May 13 - 16, 2010 - they are seeking recipes for a commemorative cookbook, so send them if you have them!

The finest Chef teams from Northern & Southern Michigan will again compete in the 2nd Annual event at Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire on April 24-26. The event celebrates Springtime Splendor Week in Michigan, and highlights Michigan’s great Agricultural diversity and growing wine & micro-brew industries.

The North vs. South competition on Saturday will again feature fantastic entrée samplings by twelve Chef teams, complimented by fine Michigan wine and micro-brew tastings. North & South winning teams will be chosen by the public and several professional culinary judges, and face off in an “Iron Chef” competition dinner that evening. Chef Eric Villegas of “Fork in the Road” TV fame, and Chef Michelle Bommarito, frequent participant on Food Channel competitions, are among the judges at the Iron Chef show-down.

hazelnut-chocolate pastries by Ledio

Proceeds from the Chef's Challenge benefit Challenge Mountain, an organization dedicated to providing adaptive outdoor recreational equipment to persons with developmental challenges.

Complete details are available at www.chefs-challenge.com or call (231) 535-2227.

You might also want to check out the Chef Challenge promo featuring event organizer and local food promoter Joe Breidenstein.

Welcome back to the Ross Sandelius Michigan Music Show. Yesterday Ross provided a photo for our Rothbury post and this morning he tipped me off to the 240-hour "Assembly Line" concert that will take place March 20-30, 2009 at AJ's Music Cafe in Ferndale.

The Assembly Line concert will bring the two worlds together as the music marathon pays tribute to American workers, products and automobiles. The Danny Boy marathon attracted singers ranging from local business owners to the governor of Michigan. The Assembly Line will also call on musicians from all segments of society to come together in the heart of hard-hit Main Street America and help pay tribute to the down, but not out, American worker.

"We call on every manufacturing plant, every car dealership, garage mechanic to join us," O'Neil said. "We call on politicians, loan officers, credit agencies, builders to join us. We call for music to heal us in these trying times.

"We call on the corporate world to join us to help us in our Main Street solution to this American challenge."

The Assembly Line Concert will feature at least 240 acts, performing for 240 hours, nonstop, at AJ's Cafe, 240 Nine Mile Road, Ferndale, Mich.

Each of the 10 days will highlight different aspects of the American partnership between workers, employers, politicians and the media. One day, political leaders will play 24, one-hour sets; another day, auto workers; and another day, local Detroit bands. Even members of the media will have their own day to play.

Well cool. Hope you get a chance to check it out and if you get some YouTube or photos, post links in the comments!

My Detroit by Ross Sandelius

Here's a shot of Ross's 9' print on the wall at AJ's.

Ginny, You Are My Shining Star by docksidepress

We have compiled an extensive list of Valentine's Day Events, Gift Ideas, Getaways & Dating Ideas, Giveaways and Parties for Singles, Couples & Kids. With Absolute Michigan's Mondo Valentine's Day Rundown you have no excuse in not charting out a stellar V-Day. Just scroll through this seemingly endless page of options and I think you will find something that tickles your fancy and hopefully that your significant other for this year and for those to come. On to the list....

Valentines Day Events Around Michigan

Brian Vander Ark
Valentines dinner and show packages! In conjunction with the special show Brian is doing, he teamed up with THE BOB in Grand Rapids to offer some package deals of dinner and show tickets. See the flyer HERE to get more info and the number to call.A Valentine's Day Celebration Of Love Songs with Brian Vander ArkWhen: February 14, 2009 - 8:30pmWhere: Grand Rapids Ballet Theatre (Wege Theatre) (341 Ellsworth Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI.)Tickets: $20 Reserved SeatingDescription: Brian Vander Ark performs in the beautiful Wege Theater. He will be performing love songs from his catalogue, and also classic love songs from the 60's and 70's. He'll also be taking online requests and dedications (via email). Joining him are his wife, Lux Land, Randy Sly on the grand piano and AJ Dunning from The Verve Pipe. This will be a great after dinner treat!Tickets are on sale now. Here's the link to the Ticketmaster page online: TICKETMASTER LINK People can also order by phone at 616.456.3333 or by coming in person to the Grand Rapids Ballet Company. - Visit Brian's website

LSO Pops: Broadway Romance
Wharton Center for Performing Arts
David Wiley, Guest Conductor
Christina Saffran Ashford, Soprano
Norman Large, Tenor
This Valentine's Day, join us in the Wharton Center for some of Broadway's finest love songs, including favorites from South Pacific, Guys and Dolls, West Side Story, The Music Man, Camelot, My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music, Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera.
Click here to purchase tickets. - Visit their website

The Elixir of Love
Luscious. Humorous. Magical. Romantic. Donizetti’s charming and sentimental score spins a lighthearted vision of love, as the humble and young Nemorino pines for the breathtaking beauty Adina. His belief in the power of a magic love potion allows this tender comedy to become a gentle expose on romance, class and hope, all leading up to one of opera’s happiest endings. By Gaetano Donizetti. Sung in Italian with English Titles. Opera Grand Rapids, DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids, (616) 742-6500 Devos Performance Hall

The Detroit Repertory Theatre's "RED NIGHT" BENEFIT - Celebrates the Drama, Passion, and Fun of the Color Red
On Saturday, February 14, 2009, the Detroit Repertory Theatre welcomes the public to an evening of drama, romance, a silent auction, champagne, and appetizers at the Board of Trustees' annual "RED NIGHT" benefit beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 each, or $50 for two. All ticket buyers also get a chance at door prizes like chocolate, flowers and gift baskets by calling 313-868-1347 for RED NIGHT reservations. Proceeds from the evening will be used to support the Theatre's Guardian Fund. The Rep is located at 13103 Woodrow Wilson in the heart of Detroit, 48238. More information may be found at www.detroitreptheatre.com

My Folky Valentine at The Ark
What better time than Valentine's Day to explore how married couples make music together? "My Folky Valentine” is The Ark's annual celebration of romance! Each year we present a few of Michigan's top musical couples, in the round during Valentine's Day week. Your hosts, Annie and Rod Capps, have invited some of their most talented friends: Allison Downey and John Austin, the Milroys, J. Oscar and Lauran Bittinger, and Jan Krist and Alan Finkbeiner, to share the stage for an evening of grand collaboration and anything but love songs! . . . Okay, well, maybe a few love songs.

Tickets $15 Buy Online or Buy In Person

Detroit: All You Need is Love, Classic Mystery Tour
Celebrate Valentine's Day with the Fab Four's greatest hits; Penny Lane, I am the Walrus, Yesterday, and of course All You Need is Love. More than a just a rock show, this is a night of Beatles tunes sung, played and performed exactly as they were written. It's the best of the Beatles like you've never heard before: LIVE! - Visit their website

Heart Tugging Tunes
The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra will perform heart-tugging classics from Tchaikovsky's "Romeo and Juliet" to "Unchained Melody" from the 1990 romantic drama "Ghost" during "Valentine Hearts." The concert, which will feature Grand Rapids guest vocalist Kathy Wagner and conductor John Varineau, is scheduled at 8 p.m. Feb. 14 at Chenery Auditorium, 714 S. Westnedge Ave. Tickets range from $10 (for students) to $40.

For more information, call 387-2300 or go to www.kalamazoosymphony.com

Breathe Owl Breathe Valentine's Day Concert
Join us for chocolates and a special concert on Valentine’s Day

Breathe Owl Breathe sounds as intimately familiar with woods and wild as their band name suggests, but there is an air of cosmopolitan sophistication, too. Micah Middaugh, Andréa Moreno-Beals, and Trevor Hobbs weave songs that are simultaneously playful and thoughtful, simple and intricate. Their layering of guitar, cello, banjo, drum set and harmonizing vocals, as well as some unusual musical uses of instruments and other found objects, results in a very creative and original sound. 8:00 pm. Tickets $12 Adults/ $5 Students available at Leelanau Books in Leland and Brilliant Books in Suttons Bay.

This event is sponsored by the Friends of Fine Arts group at Suttons Bay Schools and all proceeds go directly to fine art programs in the schools. Old Art Building

Unique Valentines Gifts

Michigan Wines for your Valentines
Valentine Wine Recommendations: Sparkling Wines - Go with anything; but especially diamonds and gold!! Or, just do the sparkling wine. Sparkling wines can be served before, during and after dinner.Michigan Wines

Basket Full of Gifts
Baskets Full of Gifts was founded in 1999 to fulfill the gift-giving needs of businesses and individuals throughout Northern Michigan. The company specializes in providing private and corporate gift solutions to:

• Celebrate holidays and weddings
• Thank employees, customers and business associates
• Commemorate birthdays, anniversaries and store openings

To order baskets call (888) 388-9404 or visit Baskets Full of Gfits

Speechless Chocolates
Alpena chocolatier Danielle Mulvena keeps winter in the Northern hinterland lively by dreaming up confections: Absinthe truffles; Medjool dates stuffed with sherry caramelized almonds and then coated in dark chocolate and smoked sea salt; tangy sweet strawberry balsamic caramels. Find her Speechless Chocolates online and in gourmet shops across the North.
For more information, please visit Speechless Chocolates

lil' Miss cupcake
lil' Miss Cupcake is bringing the Cupcake Craze to Grand Rapids, MI! lil' Miss Cupcake is dedicated to bringing you yummy homemade cupcakes that look fabulous and taste amazing! Let us do the work for your holidays, birthdays, bridal/baby showers, special events, or just because! We welcome you to experience happiness in every lil' bite with lil' Miss Cupcake! Please call 616.340.3496 or visit lil' Miss Cupcake

Patricia's Chocolates
Patricia’s Chocolate is an artisan selection of premier ganache chocolates and caramels. Handcrafted from only the finest domestic and imported French couverture cocoas in the commercial kitchen in her home in Grand Haven, Michigan, there are no artificial flavorings, additives, or preservatives in Patricia’s chocolates. For more information call 616.842.5999 or visit Patricia's Chocolates

The perfect Valentine: A love letter
Linda S Mah of the Kalamazoo Gazette gives tips on how to write your own love letter.
"If your love is incomparable, then perhaps your Valentine's Day sentiment should be, too. So you might want to pass up the Hallmark display and attempt a more singular expression of all the wonder, devotion and awe your loved one inspires in you.You might want to write a love letter." To read the rest of the article, click here The perfect Valentine

River of Glass
Elegant gifts of blown glass including ornaments, art platters and plates, bowls and vases, paper weights, and drinking glasses. Some pieces are the size of a shot glass while others are 3 feet tall. The gallery is open for buyers and browsers Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am until 6 pm and Sunday from noon until 5 pm. For more information call 586-954-4994 or visit www.river-of-glass.com/

Traverse City Central High School Choral-Aires
You can send your sweetheart something special this year by confessing your love through song. But don't worry, you aren't the one who has to do the singing. A quartet from the Traverse City Central High School Choral-Aires will do it for you. The valentine's will be delivered this Friday and Saturday. For $50 you get two songs, a truffle from Charles Layton Chocolates, a personalized card and a red rose and vase, all delivered in person. There is one stipulation, you do have to live within 15 miles of downtown Traverse City. If you live too far away or would like to spend a little less, for $10 you can get an E-Valentine. A video link attached to the e-mail will sing your sweetheart two songs. E-Valentines will be sent on the Valentine's Day. For more information call 231.590.1075.

Heart-shaped Valentine's Day Cakes
Bella Creamery

Great Harvest Bread Honey Bear
Great Harvest's Honey Bear, made out of whole wheat bread, is not sweet and that's the point. Many people don't like to receive gifts that are sweet and fattening for Valentine's Day. The bear satisfies that. The Honey Bear is only $7.95. For those who like chocolate, the bakery's Brownie Hearts, chocolate bread with dried cherries, is also popular for $8.50. - Visit their website

Stop & Kiss Card Game
Stop & Kiss, invented by Lynn Baldwin of Livonia, is a unique card game designed especially for couples. Celebrate your relationship. Connect with the one you love. Take time out of your busy lives to relive memorable moments and focus on your shared future. Stop & Kiss Card Game

Valentines Cards from Michigan Companies
Gallery 19 , Grand Rapids
Avanti Press , Detroit
Burke Design , Ontonagon
Veggie Cards , Ann Arbor

Create your own Valentine with Homemade Paper
We are your best source for all your handmade paper art and paper crafting needs. We are continually working to bring you the finest creative handmade paper, unique papers and crafting accessories you will find. Journal, notebooks, and crafting embellishments also available. Creative Papers Online, 738 Airport Blvd. Ste. 2, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 Toll-Free: 1-800-PAPER-40 (727-3740)

Make your Valentine's Card Stand Out with a Cloth Envelope
Our unique cloth envelopes are a new and exciting way to send your message. These colorful envelopes beg to be opened and will stand out even in a large stack of mail. Not only will they get opened but because of their beauty they will be saved to be seen by others. Made of durable cotton, they can even be reused. 5581 Trager Rd, Traverse City, 231-995-9515 Cloth Envelope

Enjoy a Gourmet Night In with A Personal Chef
The Original Wandering Gourmet Personal Chef Service, presents Michigan’s finest in fresh, home-cooked meals, ready when you are! The Original Wandering Gourmet will create your menu based on your tastes and dietary preferences; or simply link to our Menu page for quick selection ordering. On your scheduled cook day, The Original Wandering Gourmet will arrive at your home bringing all of the ingredients and equipment needed to prepare your meals. The Original Wandering Gourmet will travel anywhere within 50 miles of our office in Warren to cook for you at no additional charge. Special arrangements can be made for greater distances. Gift certificates available. For more information call 586.212.1599 or visit The Original Wandering Gourmet.

Romantic Valentine Getaways

Amway Grand Romance Plus Package
Romance Package Includes:

• Overnight accommodations for two in a Classic Guest Room featuring a plush Concierge bed with pillow top mattress, down pillows and cozy linen sheets for one relaxing evening
• Complimentary bottle of wine; choice of Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, White Zinfandel or Sparkling Wine
• One (1) $50 Food & Beverage Voucher
• Truffles
• Complimentary use of the Plaza Fitness Center
• Valet or Self parking
• Late check-out (2pm)

For more information call 1.800.253.3590 or Click here to make your reservations online. - Visit their website for more details

Valentine Lodge
Our Bed and Breakfast is a three-story Victorian situated on two acres of shady garden in a residential area within walking distance of Lake Michigan, a half mile from Douglas Beach and a mile from Oval Beach.
Call for reservations at (269) 857-4598 or visit Valentine Lodge

Country Hermitage Bed & Breakfast
Active couples who love getting out in the fresh air and enjoying Northern Michigan's winter wonderland will love the Country Hermitage Bed and Breakfast's ski and romance package. You'll enjoy two nights accommodations in the B&B's elegant rooms, a two-day rental of cross-country skis or snowshoes, a bottle of Chateau Chantal's sparkling wine, Celebrate, and two souvenir Country Hermitage B&B champagne flutes. Set out and explore the B&B's 400-acre cherry orchards, woodlands and adjoining golf courses on your cross-country skis or snowshoes. Or visit the many wildlife areas close by that have miles of trails for the novice or experienced skier/snowshoer. Want to go the extra mile for your Valentine? Add on one of the inn's special extras: an in-house massage, a bouquet of flowers or chocolates. Call 231-938-5930 for reservations.

Valentine's Weekend at Chateau Chantel
Chateau Chantal, Traverse City,
Tailor you stay with Chateau Chantal this Valentine's weekend or go for the gusto! Offerings include celebrating breakfast in bed Saturday morning, getting "naughty" as soon as you arrive, on-site side-by-side one hour massage and dinner at the Old Mission Tavern. Tailor your weekend a la carte or get it all for the special one in your life! For more information call 231-223-4110 or visit www.chateauchantal.com

Couples Retreat at Twin Gables Inn - Twin Gables Inn, Saugatuck
Juggling the demands of your busy lifestyle sometimes leaves little time for you and your partner to connect and spend some time together in a calming, restful and relaxing atmosphere. Twin Gables wildly successful all inclusive spa weekends has now been expanded to include you and your partner. You will receive the services of a professional massage therapist as well as experienced beauty professionals. Make the time for each other and immerse yourself in the indulgences that a weekend of pampering will provide. Your weekend package for rooms 5-11 - $375.00 and luxury rooms 1-4 and 12-14 - $450.00
For more information call 269-857-4346 or visit www.twingablesinn.com

Fun Valentine's Day Dating Ideas

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides Downtown Grand Rapids
Go over the Grand River and through Ah-Nab-Awen Park as you view some of the architectural and scenic highlights of downtown Grand Rapids in one of our beautiful 19th Century Vis-a-vis white carriages. Sit back and enjoy a slower pace while viewing the lovely landscaping and fountains surrounding the Gerald Ford Museum and the Grand Rapid Public Museum. Hear the clip-clop of horse hoofs as you cross the lighted bridges over the Grand River.Reservations are recommended; cost varies. For more information call (616) 893-4984 or visit Grand Carriages

Murder Mystery Trains

1. Boards 1 hour before departure at 451 N. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI
2. Boards 1 hour before departure at Blissfield depot, 301 E. Adrian St., Blissfield, MI

Join us for a 5-course meal and 5-star service on the longest continuously-operating dinner train in North America. Our famous Murder Mystery Dinner Train features a leisurely 3-hour trip through the Michigan farmland while a comedic murder mystery unfolds tableside. You'll die laughing!

Reservations are REQUIRED and can generally be made up to 24-hours before departure. The train begins boarding approximately one hour before departure. Tickets are $69.95 per person, which does not include bar service or gratuity. Sorry, group discounts are NOT available for this event, since it falls on Valentine's Day.

Call 1-888-GO-RAIL-1 (888-467-2451) or visit Murder Mystery Train for more information and reservations.

Blast from the Past Prom Night - Hess Lake Rentals, Newaygo
Hess Lake Rentals is proud to present "Blast from the Past Prom Night." Girls, this is your chance to get your significant other to finally take you to the prom that you originally may have missed, step up the romance in your relationship or simply have a night away from it all with your old high school friends. What ever your situation, you definitely don't want to miss this fun time. Dress in 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s prom attire with your spouse, significant other, girlfriends, etc. There will be voting for prom King and Queen and Court, photo booth, DJ, dinner, dancing and much more! Accommodations are only a few miles from the fun at any Hess Lake Rentals-Wisner vacation home rental. For more information call 616-638-9384 or visit www.hesslakerentals.com

Cupid's Couples Course at Swiss Valley Ski Area - Swiss Valley Ski Area, Jones
Valentine’s Weekend is coming up and Saturday Swiss Valley will celebrate in style. Bring your date Saturday for 2 for 1 lift tickets and ski rental from 6:00PM-10:00PM. We will also have live music in the Chalet by Three Rivers local, Mark Higgins, and a dinner special for two! A Bloody Mary Bar, with all your favorite fixins is planned from 6:00-9:00PM. AND….We will have a Cupid’s Couples Course Challenge , connected couple compete through a obstacle for chances to win $100.00 , $50.00 and $25.00 Yesterday’s gift certificates. For more information call 269-244-5635 or visit www.skiswissvalley.com

Great Backyard Bird Count - Otis Sanctuary, Hastings
The Otis Sanctuary will be hosting activites on Saturday, February 14th, in conjunction with the Great Backyard Bird Count. Activities include guided walks (8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.), self guided hikes (all day),
discounted birdfood sales (while supplies last! Starts at 9:00 a.m.), and we'll be counting birds at our feeders! There will be hot drinks and snacks on hand, come on out and say hi! For more information call 269-948-5777 or visit www.otissanctuary.org

9th Annual Pink Ice Game
The K-Wings' Pink Ice Game versus Port Huron, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 14 at Wings Stadium. A local couple will be married during the game and there will be a four-course meal from 5 to 7 p.m. prior to the game at The Icehouse Bar Grille. Tickets are $50 per couple and include the meal, a rose and an alcohol-free beverage. Reservations can be made by calling 345-1125, ext. 243, or 492-9319. www.wingsstadium.com

Valentine's Skate Date
Feb. 12, 6 to 8 p.m. at Millennium Park in Portage. It's $10 per person and includes skating, rental, a floral gift, a Spicy Pickle box lunch and sparkling grape juice. Pre-registration is required by Feb. 10. For more information, call 329-4522.

Non-Traditional Valentines Day Events

Valentine's Day Massacre 80th Anniversary - The West Michigan Connection
The Chicago St. Valentine’s Day Massacre 80th Anniversary - The West Michigan Connection
This year will be the 80th anniversary of one of the most notorious events in crime history – The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. This incident has been recounted time and again in articles, books, television and the movies. On Saturday, February 14, the 80th anniversary, there will be special presentations, displays and more at The Old Jail Museum, 13 Walnut Street, Allegan, MI 49010 and The Griswold Auditorium, 401 Hubbard St Allegan, MI 49010. This special event is being brought to you by the Allegan County Historical Society. For more information call (269) 673-8292 or visit Allegan County Historical Society

ZOOROTICA: A Valentine’s Day to Remember!!
Tired of the same old dinner and a movie on Valentine’s Day? Do you want to surprise your special someone with a unique, exciting and educational experience that neither of you will ever forget? Then join Binder Park Zoo for a special “ZOOROTICA” tour and learn about the love lives of the scaly and slimy, the furry and fanged, and the feathered and flighted. Cost per couple is $50 and reservations must be made by February 10 by calling the zoo office Monday thru Friday- 8:30 am to 5 pm. Binder Park Zoo, Battle Creek, (269) 979-1351

STAR TREK Ultimate Wedding Package
POP THE QUESTION ON VALENTINE’S DAY IN ‘STAR TREK® THE EXHIBITION’ TO WIN A STAR TREK WEDDING AT THE DETROIT SCIENCE CENTER
Have you ever dreamed of getting married on the bridge of Star Trek’s U.S.S. Enterprise? This Valentine’s Day, visitors to STAR TREK THE EXHIBITION at the Detroit Science Center will have a chance to win this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Any couple who attends STAR TREK THE EXHIBITION and becomes engaged in the exhibit on Feb. 14, 2009 will be entered into an on-line contest to win a June wedding to be held in the exhibit. Couples will receive a complimentary photo in the exhibit, which will be posted on www.detroitsciencecenter.org from Feb. 16 – March 16, 2009, where site visitors will have an opportunity to vote on the couple they would like to see married in the exhibit. - Visit their website for details

Valentines Day Online Giveaways

The Valentine’s Day Anti-Recession E-Session Giveaway Contest

Epic Motion, a Michigan based wedding and event video production company, is giving an engagement session away for free.
"Email us if you’re interested AND if you meet the following criteria…

1. You are engaged to be married
2. You like to smile and laugh
3. You make a cute couple
4. You don’t mind spending an hour or two in the cold
5. You’re both pretty available the second week of February (hopefully the 11th or 13th) to film near Detroit
6. You’re tired of the recession already"

For more information, check out Wed Michigan's Valentines Day Giveaway

"In the spirit of the season... the romantic snowfalls, snuggling with your loved one, and of course, Valentine's Day, Wed Michigan is announcing it's first official giveaway! To enter, email me at wedmichigan@gmail.com with your engagement story by February 12th. Whether your story is romantic, funny, or didn't quite go as planned, Wed Michigan wants to hear them all. I will post my top three proposal picks and the winner will be announced on February 14th, Valentine's Day! "

Valentines Day Parties for Singles or Couples

Lover’s Lane
Come on down to New Holland Brewing Co. for their Lover's Lane party on February 14 from 8 pm to close! Make sure you are sending the right sign: wear red if you're taken; yellow if you're unsure and green if you're available. They will have rotating drink specials depending on what color you're wearing.
New Holland Brewing Co. Holland 616-355-6422 www.newhollandbrew.com

Ballroom Dance Valentine's Day Party
BALLROOM DANCERS - Singles and Couples Welcome to our Valentine's Day Party. Areas best place to Ballroom Dance. Voted Readers Choice Award 2008 for Favorite Place to Dance. Over 3,000 sq. ft hardwood dance floor. You are invited to our beautiful studio for an evening of dance. Celebrating our 19th Anniversary. Dress Code Required. $14.00 per person For more information call 269-383-4020 for reservations.

Bayside Travellers Dance Society Valentine's Dance,
4:30-6:30 p.m. fiddle jamboree; 7-7:45 p.m. Ceili dance workshop, 8-11 p.m. contra and square dancing, live music by Malarky, dances called and taught by Dan Gorno, $10 adults, $6 students with ID, $8 dance society members; Twin Lakes Park, Gilbert Lodge, 6800 N. Long Lake Road, TC; 313-2596. Bayside Travellers Dance Society

Valentines Day with the Kids

Valentine's Party
Jungle Joe's Family Fun Center, 7255 S. Sprinkle Road, Portage, 324-1992.

Heart-shaped pizzas
Papa Murphy's Take N Bake Pizza, Feb. 9-14. They are $6.99 for a large pepperoni pizza. www.papamurphys.com.

love from detroit by n.elle

The day for lovers, sweethearts and paramours is drawing close. Like it, love it, or hate it, Valentine's Day has become an annual tradition. Such a tradition, that according to the Greeting Card Association, over one billion valentines will be given out, and eighty five percent of those by women.

As you celebrate the holiday, consider making your day special with something from Michigan. There's plenty of delicious Valentine's Day recipes from Pure Michigan at Michigan.org. The Freep also offers up some culinary advice in their article "Whip up a romantic dinner with your sweetheart". The Detroit News has a V-Day food feature that puts forth the notion that 'chili peppers are one way to perk up your valentine's libido'. So if you like it spicy see "Put some sizzle behind the sentiment on Valentine's Day". Over at mlive.com you can check out "Valentine's Day is perfect for creating fun foods with kids".

Of course, if you're looking for something to compliment that tasty treat, consider the MDA's Wine Recommendations for that special day. According to the Wine Market Council and Merrill Research, a whopping 95 percent of wine drinkers agree that wine makes a perfect gift and 50% of both men and women said they would rather receive wine of Valentine’s Day, compared with 41% who preferred a box of chocolates. You can't go wrong with a Michigan wine!

Travel Michigan has put together a great selection of Romantic Escapes in Michigan. Their getaways and packages are perfect for couples who are looking to get away from it all (but not each other). While you're at it, be sure to check out the complete list of Winter Wine Festivals and check out the ones in early February that have a bit of a romantic angle.

If you're left scratching your head over what to buy him or her, be sure to check out WLNS.com for a Valentine's Day Gift Giving Guide for that perfect gift!

Don't forget the furry friends in your life, be a homeless pet's Valentine. WXYZ-TV 7 in Detroit is hosting their Annual Valentine's Day Telethon to support the Michigan Humane Society. Tune in or donate online!

Absolute Michigan's Mondo Valentine's Day Rundown
We have compiled an extensive list of Valentine's Day Events, Gift Ideas, Getaways & Dating Ideas, Giveaways and Parties for Singles, Couples & Kids. Check it out here!

If that's not enough and you really want to get your Valentine on, check out Absolute Michigan keyword Valentine for food & gift ideas.

For a little eye candy, you should check out the Valentine slideshow from the Absolute Michigan flickr pool!

We also have a large number of Michigan web sites to check out (though if we're missing one, be sure to add a link to it).

Flowers & Florists … say it with flowers

Chocolate … there's also candy companies

Candles … lighting the way for romance for thousands of years

Jewelry … silver & gold, platinum and bronze, pick your favorite.

Wow, you actually made it to the end of this post!
So relax, kick back, and watch one of Motown's finest, The Temptations, perform their hit song 'My Girl'. Definitely a Motown classic and a great song for Valentine's Day!

The Corez Wine Bar

Andy Dragt of Rapid Growth TV has produced a cool introduction to the new Corez Wine Bar in Grand Rapids' East Hills neighborhood with owner/sommelier Mike Dombrowski. If you haven't been following Andy's videos, you really should be!

In addition to the fact that this is the debut of Andy's new DIY camera dolly, I thought this video was interesting for Mike's handmade ethic and for his thoughts on how we don't need to dumb things down and make our businesses less to succeed in tough times.

Check out more Michigan wine bars from Absolute Michigan.

New Year’s Eve on the Grand 2009 - Grand Rapids, MI
Celebrate the greatness of Grand Rapids and welcome 2009 as Citadel Broadcasting and the City of Grand Rapids present New Year’s on the Grand. December 31st, downtown Grand Rapids will welcome 2009 along side Times Square in New York City with a ball drop at midnight to ring in the New Year.

New Year's Fest - Kalamazoo, MI
New Year's Fest provides 28 different entertainers who perform inside 9 buildings surrounding Bronson Park. Admission is through a button that allows entry to all venues including a heated tent. Activities in Bronson Park, including the fireworks, sponsored by Maple Hill Auto Group, are free.

New Years Eve - Detroit, MI
313rd.com presents New Years Eve (NYE) 2008 at the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Detroit. Come celebrate the new year at one of Detroit's local music landmarks located right in the heart of Campus Martius right across the street from the festive Holiday Tree and Ice Skating Rink. The celebration features 4 hours of open bar from 10pm - 2am, cash bar until 4am, champagne toast and food all night. You can't miss it...

New Years Eve Detroit - Detroit, MI
We are pleased to announce our 6th annual gala event for fun singles and couples. If you are tired of or want more than the bar scene then you are in the right place! New Years Eve Detroit .net was founded on the principal that when it comes to New years Eve in the metro Detroit area, partiers should have the choice of a fun and fashionable event where everything is included and you don't have to leave right after midnight when the party is in high gear!

New Year's Eve Detroit 2009 - Detroit, MI
New Year's Eve is one of the most celebrated holidays in the world and NYEDetroit.com is here to help you learn about the best New Year's Eve parties in metro Detroit! NYEDetroit.com gives you access to Exclusive New Years Eve Events , including first-rate packages and hotel and transportation, VIP and Bottle Service options.

Looking for a hot party with an open bar or all inclusive tickets that include dinner and an off the hook New Year's Eve Party in the towns closest to you? Rochester, Pontiac, Detroit, Royal Oak, Livonia, Canton, Plymouth - NYEDetroit.com offers free listings for all New Year's Eve Parties in metro Detroit and surrounding cities.

New Year's Nation Detroit - Detroit, MI
DeNew Year’s Nation is the only event of its kind, connecting thousands of people in multiple cities on the biggest night of the year.

On New Year’s Eve 2009, more than 15,000 guests in 10 cities will join the New Year’s Nation celebration as thousands more join the party on-line with NYN-TV, New Year’s Nation’s live broadcast.troit's Largest & Most Exclusive New Year's Event-Live broadcast connecting 8 Cities. 5HR Open Bar, Food Stations, Balloon Drop & Champagne Toast:That 80s Band:DJ Urban Kris

39th Annual Belle Isle New Year's Eve Family Fun/Walk - Detroit, MI
This has become a family tradition, attracting as many as 2,000 participants. The one-mile Children's Run/Walk is one of the largest running events in Michigan, with a trophy to all finishers 12 years and younger. Entry fee includes long-sleeve shirt, awards, food and beverage. Hosted by the Belle Isle Runners and the Downtown Runners & Walkers.

Downtown New Year's Eve Gala & Fireworks - Mt Clemens, MI
Join us for the 15th Annual Downtown Mount Clemens New Year's Eve Gala. This is Metro Detroit's Best Family New Year's Eve Party featuring live entertainment and Midnight fireworks!

Pistons vs. Nets - Auburn Hills, MI
Watch the ball drop ... through the net!

Griffins vs. Iowa Chops - Grand Rapids, MI
The Griffins will host their 12th annual New Year’s Eve Extravaganza. Fans can stay after the game to enjoy West Michigan’s largest indoor fireworks show!

New Year's Eve at The B.O.B. - Grand Rapids, MI
Ring in the New Year in style at The B.O.B. with a bash that is highly anticipated every year. Featuring five distinct packages to choose from, including dining, entertainment, comedy, dancing and a VIP party, the choice is yours.

Craig's Cruisers New Years Eve Bash - Grand Rapids, MI
Festive food and family fun for everyone! Two different party times. Both parties include Craig's Special New Years Eve Feast! Unlimited Indoor Go-Karts, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, High Ropes Course and Frog Hopper. Plus, unlimited play on all video games (non-redemption). Times are 4pm-8pm or 9pm-1am. All this fun for only $24.99 per person or $125 for six (each party).

New Year's Eve @ the KIA - Kalamazoo, MI
Mark your calendar to join us at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts to celebrate New Year's Eve 2008! This celebration will be bigger and better than ever! Seating is limited to 200 tickets. The price is $79 per person.

Ring In the New Year at Boyne Highlands Harbor Springs, MI ...or at Boyne Mountain Boyne Falls, MI
Boyne Highlands & Boyne Mountain offer many New Year's Eve events for romantic, casual, single or for the entire family including Torchlight Parade, dinner, dancing and celebratory fireworks (Boyne Highlands)

Grand Traverse Resort New Year's Celebration - Traverse City, MI
Join us for a special New Year's Eve live music event on December 31, 2008. The night will feature live music from The Simone Vitale Band with plenty of vibrant vocals, big brass horns and lively sounds. The Simone Vitale Band is widely regarded as one of Michigan's premiere live bands, with 14 talented vocalists and musicians performing a variety of beautiful, soulful sounds. This is one night where you're sure to be up and dancing! Please note, the New Year's Eve "A Motown Celebration" concert is not black tie, although proper attire is requested.

New Year’s Eve Dinner Train: Murder Mystery Charlotte & Blissfield, MI
Don't wait until the last minute -- make your reservations now, and join us on the Old Road Dinner Train for our famous
Murder Mystery Train on New Year's Eve.

The Chick Inn Triptych by jnhkrawczyk

Brawn beats brains - Michigan's Headless Chicken

The small town of Fruita, Colorado, holds a yearly festival dedicated to a bird that defied the laws of biology by staying alive after being decapitated for a farmer's dinner. In 1945, 'Mike' the headless chicken lived for eighteen months with only a brain stem and one ear to guide him, and became the star of a national sideshow tour. But he wasn't the first headless chicken to survive the chopping block. Michigan's Sault St. Marie boasted a crowd-pleasing, black leghorn decades earlier, in 1903. The headless chicken of the 'Soo' didn't live as long as Mike, nor did she match Mike's dizzying heights of fame and glory (Mike even has his own web site - miketheheadlesschicken.org), but she caused plenty of amazement in her day.

The natural wonder was created by one of the cooks at the Belvidere Hotel, who removed the hen's noggin and tossed her body into a barrel to be prepared for that night's roast chicken special. But when the cook pulled the hen's body out to be plucked, she flew away and began strolling around the hotel's basement floor.

Too amused to end the hen's life again, the hotel employees began feeding her oatmeal gruel from a syringe and claimed that she seemed to enjoy her meals, although, as the Sault Ste. Marie Evening News noted, 'she has no brains and no tongue to taste it with.' Some of the Belvidere workers, in fact, made a small fortune by betting patrons a dollar that they had a live, headless chicken in the basement, then escorting their dupes to the basement to prove their claim and collect. The stalwart hen did make national newspaper headlines.

Unlike Colorado's Mike, however, the Soo's headless black leghorn was not awarded the dignity of a recorded name, and she lived only seventeen days before she finally succumbed. Rumor around town has it she was stuffed not with bread crumbs but a taxidermist's form, and was displayed at various places. No one seems to know where she ended up. But she was seen by hundreds during those seventeen amazing days, and is remembered now as a testimonial to life and its occasional ability to survive against all conceivable odds.

A Brief History
Through Discover Kalamazoo we learn that Kalamazoo County began as a small fur-trading post founded by Titus Bronson in the late 1700s. Like many Michigan cities, Kalamazoo's name was adapted from an Indian word, "kikalamazoo," meaning boiling water. Water has long been a vital component in Kalamazoo's major industries including papermaking and agriculture which have helped the area grow and prosper.

Some of the many famous products manufactured in Kalamazoo include Checker Cabs, Gibson guitars, Kalamazoo Stoves, Stryker hospital beds and Shakespeare fishing rods and reels. In the late 1800s, W. E. Upjohn moved to Kalamazoo and created The Upjohn Company, which is now part of Pfizer Corporation, the world ’s largest pharmaceutical company.

Recently Kalamazoo has made national news with the Kalamazoo Promise which provides a scholarship to every Kalamazoo Public School student. It has served as a catalyst and an inspiration throughout Michigan, the United States and even the international community.

Culinary Delights
Once know as 'Celery City', Kalamazoo was once was noted for celery and bedding plants. To this day the surrounding countryside still continues to produce significant quantities of farm crops of which can be found at one of the many area farmers markets and u-pick farms. Like other regions in Michigan the Kalamazoo area has become home to the burgeoning wine industry. The Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail hugs the southeast shore of Lake Michigan, extending from the Michigan-Indiana border north 70 miles to the Kalamazoo River. The Kalamazoo area also is home to several micro-breweries such as Aradia brewing Co in Battle Creek and the granddaddy of them all Bell's Brewery. Other notable food producers include Tree-Mendus Fruit which is home of the world famous International Cherry Pit Spitting Championship, the A.M. Todd Company which is a leading producer of peppermint oil and their offshoot Kalsec which produces spice, herb, hop, and vegetable extracts. Just a few of the great restaurants in the area include Zazios which features an interactive dining experience, the Epic Bistro, Food Dance, Tello Wine Bar and the historic Schuler's Restaurant & Pub.

Kalamazoo and surrounding areas, in pictures
The photo above is titled july 20 station taken by Kathie Gibson aka noearlybird and is part of the Kalamazoo flickr pool. The location of the photo is the new Kalamazoo Transportation Center. Also check out Kathie's shots of Binder Park Zoo in nearby Battle Creek. In addition to Kalamazoo, some other areas you may want check out include, South Haven, St. Joseph, Battle Creek and Saugatuck.

South Haven Pier by the kcephoto

But what is there to DO in Kalamazoo?
Known as the land of rolling hills and numerous lakes it is the cities that bring rich and diverse community culture to the Kalamazoo region. This area of Michigan is packed with must see attractions, abundant recreation and unique shopping experiences for everyone. In the summer months the beautiful inland lakes and the the Lake Michigan shoreline towns of St. Joseph, South Haven and Saugatuck are popular destinations. Other notable outdoor hotspots include the Kal-Haven Trail State Park, which is a 34.5 mile linear Kal-Haven Trail State Park extends from South Haven, on the shores of Lake Michigan, to the northwest suburbs of the City of Kalamazoo, the Kalamazoo Watershed Heritage Water Trail and Warren Dunes State Park. There is also plenty to do year around such as the Air Zoo, the Gilmore Car Museum, the #1 in the nation rated Kalamazoo Nature Center, the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, the Binder Park Zoo, the American Museum of Magic and the expansive Fort Custer Recreation Area.

Where do I go for more?
You can dig deeper through Absolute Michigan by checking out Absolute Michigan county pages for St. Joseph , Kalamazoo, Cass, Barry, Van Buren, Allegan, Calhoun & Branch and also try the pages for Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, South Haven and many other towns that you can see on the Absolute Michigan Map of Michigan. Of course there are tons of other web sites with useful information. Some of our favorites are the The City of Kalamazoo, South Haven Visitors Bureau, St. Joseph Today and Battle Creek Play for Keeps.

The Long Crossing

A combination of Wikipedia's Traverse City, Michigan entry and the Traverse City CVB the Grand Traverse Bay got their name from 18th century French voyagers who made la grande traverse or "the long crossing" across the mouth of the bay Grand Traverse Bay. In 1853 the only post office in the region was located at Old Mission, then known as "Grand Traverse." While in Washington, D.C. in 1852, Tracy Lay convinced the U.S. Post Office to authorize a new post office at his newer settlement across the bay. The village was known as "Grand Traverse City," but at the suggestion of a postal clerk the "Grand" was dropped to limit confusion.

Culinary Delights

The Grand Traverse region earns the nickname of "Cherry Capital of the World," producing an estimated 360,000,000 pounds of cherries annually. It's not just cherries though - the wineries of the Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula have risen quickly to the top due to a conducive micro-climate for growing grapes. You can enjoy the region's agricultural bounty through a wide array of farm markets and food producers like Shetler Family Dairy, Moomers Homemade Ice Cream (named America's Best Scoop in 2008) and Carlson's of Fishtown. There are also at a number of great restaurants in the city and scattered throughout the area. Just a few of these to not miss are Fusion, amical, Trattoria Funistrada, The Old Mission Tavern and (of course) the Cheese Shanty.

Traverse City, in pictures

The photo above is titled Sunrise, East Arm, Traverse Bay and it was taken by Joel Dinda, who has several more from Traverse City and this set of Leelanau County photos (slideshow). As you can see from Joel's photos, the countryside and shoreline surrounding Traverse City is some of the most beautiful in Michigan. In addition to Traverse City, some things you might want to look at include Old Mission, Sleeping Bear Dunes and of course photos of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee & Wexford.

TJ's Pub by the pentax hammer

But what is there to DO in Traverse City?

If you enjoy the outdoors, Northwest Michigan is the place to go. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is among the most beautiful natural areas in the nation, offering miles of untrammeled Lake Michigan coastline, hiking, camping and cultural opportunities and the world's largest shifting sand dunes. There are many more beaches offering swimming and fishing on the area's many inland lakes like North and South Lake Leelanau and Torch Lake. You can also hike the trails of the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, bike on the many backroads and trails including the TART Trails and the Betsie Valley Trail and enjoy golf at a dizzying number of golf courses.

If the outdoors isn't your thing you can experience shopping in downtown Traverse City and at villages across the region. The State Theatre - home of the Traverse City Film Festival - has been beautifully restored and shows a variety of independent and classic movies every day. The region also boasts some excellent museums including the Dennos Museum, Music House (private museum), and Great Lakes Children's Museum in Traverse City, the Manistee County Historical Museum, the Empire Area Historical Museum, Grand Traverse Lighthouse, Guntzviller's Spirit of the Woods Museum (private) and the Carl T. Johnson Hunting & Fishing Center in Cadillac.

Where do I go for more?

You can dig deeper through Absolute Michigan by checking out Absolute Michigan county pages for Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee & Wexford and also try the pages for Traverse City, Manistee, Cadillac and many other towns that you can see on the Absolute Michigan Map of Michigan. Of course there are tons of other web sites with useful information. Some of our favorites are the Traverse City Visitors Convention & Visitor's Bureau, MyNorth, Kalkaska County Michigan Online, the Benzie County Visitors Bureau, and our own Leelanau.com and betsiebay.net.

Frankenmuth by Tony Tanoury

Wilkommen to Frankenmuth’s 50th Annual Bavarian Festival It’s not just an event... it’s a feeling of "Gemütlichkeit", combined with the warmth and friendship of Michigan’s charming Bavarian Village.

It all started in 1959 with a Grand Opening Celebration of the Bavarian style addition to Fischer’s Hotel on Main Street. Back then "Tiny" & Dorothy Zehnder gambled on "Bavarianizing" their restaurant and re-naming it Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn. Several years later the event out-grew the parking lots of the restaurants. The Civic Events Council of Frankenmuth took over the operation of what has become an annual Bavarian Festival!

Come and enjoy the Gemütlichkeit of Old Bavaria blended with hospitality of Frankenmuth

Frankenmuth, "Michigan's Little Bavaria", delights over 3 million visitors annually. Come Experience Another World with unique attractions, shopping, restaurants, hotels & camping, festivals, and family fun! Information on what is happening next in Frankenmuth is only a click away.

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Fork in the Road is a Michigan based food show that celebrates the diverse food heritage of the Great Lakes region.

If you're a serious coney dog fan and are up for a road trip you can use the following links to navigate your way to the many Detroit and Flint locations.

Recipe:
Check out Chef Eric's unique take on Detroit and Flint style coney dogs.

Related links:
The Coney story: How Detroit went to the dog from the chicagotribune.com

Coney Detroit A place to share Detroit-area Coney Island hot dog dining experiences, memories and lore. Two to go -- everything!

Coney Island (restaurant) from Wikipedia

Michigan hot dog from Wikipedia

Coney Island hot dog from Wikipedia

Coney Dog's MySpace page

Almost Flint-Style Coney Sauce from micuisine.com

Flintstyle from librarianavengers.org

A Celebration of Sausage, the Poor Man's Steak All Things Considered / NPR

Koegel's...Always in Good Taste! Quality Meats Since 1916

A view of Greektown, a District of Detroit by DetroitDerek

We profiled four great Michigan ethnic restaurants this week:

• Legs Inn of Cross Village
• Travelers Club International Restaurant & Tuba Museum of Okemos
• Saffron in Kalamazoo
• Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant in Ann Arbor and Ferndale

How many did we miss? Probably close to a bazillion - help us (and them) out and give a shout out to your favorite ethnic restaurants in Michigan in the comments!

200608 by zTransmissions

The Travelers Club International Restaurant and Tuba Museum of Okemos is unique for its "traveling" menu, born of the tastes of Jennifer Brooke Byrom and William White who loved to cook feasts of ethnic food - but didn't like to cook the same thing too often!

The menu at "the Tuba" represents authentic cuisine of their Latin, Asian, and Middle-Eastern staples and the regions from Eastern Europe to the Caribbean to Africa to the Mediterranean that are featured in their monthly specials. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and have a great kids menu, solid wine list and over 100 domestic and imported beers.

If you're wondering about the "Tuba Museum" part, there is indeed a tuba museum and it houses a wide range of tubas and sousaphones including the only known example of a double E flat Helicon Tuba inscribed "The Majestic Monster".

legs inn by 46137

The Legs Inn is a "monument to nature" built on a high bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. The fantasy-like atmosphere of this medieval looking stone, timber and driftwood landmark was created by Polish immigrant, Stanley Smolak who fell in love with Northern Michigan and its people and decided to settle in Cross Village in 1921. The structure reflects the twisted and wild forms of driftwood he collected and the influence of the Ottawa and Chippewa Indians native to the area (more history).

The restaurant is still run by the Smolak family who remain dedicated to making your visit to Legs Inn an unforgettable experience. Their specialty is authentic Polish cuisine like Hunter's stew, Goulash, Pierogi, Schnitzel and Kotlet. They also offer delicious American dishes including local fresh Whitefish. They offer Polish beers and even meads to complement your dinner and dessert receives special attention with ethnic offerings like the Fruit Pierogi Du Jour, Nalesnik and Old Fashioned Polish Berry Szarlotka, an Old World Polish crumble cake baked with a blend of fresh apples, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and blueberries.

Through the season they host concerts and special events but be advised that the restaurant is only open May - October so check their site for the exact dates! View the Legs Inn on Absolute Michigan's Map of Michigan.

Greektown by One Foot Over The Moon

In February of 2008 we're profiling Michigan's restaurants. This week we picked four of Michigan's notable casual & family restaurant:

• Clara's of Battle Creek & Lansing
• Harbor Haus in Copper Harbor
• Zehnder's of Frankenmuth
• The Bluebird of Leland

There's a whole ton more great places across the state that we didn't include. That's where you come in! Post a comment about your favorite casual restaurants, tell us why you like them and include links!

The Bluebird by The Leland Report

Since 1927 when boat builder Martin Telgard and his wife Leone opened the Bluebird as a small sandwich and soda shop, the Bluebird in Leland has been the gathering place for locals and tourists alike. From the casual bar & tavern to the more elegant, scenic dining room on the banks of the Leland River, the Bluebird tradition of excellence is always apparent.

They have long been known for the finest whitefish and perch in Northern Michigan and also seek the finest steaks and the freshest, flown-in seafood along with their own fresh pasta and baked goods - including their famous cinnamon rolls still made with Leone's recipe - and a very extensive wine list. In the off-season, they also feature ethnic nights every Wednesday and Thursday night with special menus and wine lists.

Here's the location of The Bluebird on Absolute Michigan's Map of Michigan.

Sign says it all. by ezz eddie

Zehnder's of Frankenmuth is the second largest independent restaurant in the United States and America's largest family restaurant. With ten dining rooms that seat more than 1500 guests, Zehnder's serves about a million diners a year. Their history page has a cool old photo and explains that just a decade after German missionaries founded the settlement of Frankenmuth, the Exchange Hotel began serving meals to local people and travelers in 1856. In 1927:

William Zehnder, Sr. acquired the Hotel, which had been vacant for four years, by trading a farm he owned, plus $4000 he borrowed. Both the exterior and the interior were extensively remodeled. The front of the exterior was made to look like Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington. The place, renamed Zehnder's Hotel, opened on Mother's Day, 1928, with a seating capacity of 60. On that day, 312 diners were served family style chicken dinners for $1 per person.

While the $1 chicken dinner isn't offered today, their menu features all-you-can-eat family style chicken dinners, Old World classics like Black Forest pork chops, Barvarian sausage and Pan Fried Pork Schnitzel with Wild Forest Mushrooms and a variety of seafood, steaks, fresh baked goods and European desserts.

Every January, they hold a Snowfest and you can view a vide report from Snowfest 2008 featuring John Zehnder from mLive on YouTube. Also check out Zehnder's of Frankenmuth on the Absolute Michigan Map of Michigan.

Owner-chef Ron Waara is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and started out as a cook under the meticulous supervision of Harbor Haus founders Fritz and Maiken Ehlers. The menu is very eclectic with a number of German favorites and incorporates homegrown herbs and vegetables and (in season) local strawberries, huckleberries, raspberries and wild blueberries. From soups and salad dressings, to the entrees and desserts, all items are created from fresh ingredients and they are careful to point out that no prefabricated dishes are served at the Harbor Haus.

As shown in the picture to the right, at about 6:00 to 6:30 PM every day, the waitstaff will disappear from your table to perform a dance on the patio outside the restaurant windows celebrating the Isle Royale Queen's return trip from Isle Royale National Park. It's also a bed & breakfast, so if you're inclined to overeat, you can grab a room!

You can get the rough location of the Harbor Haus in Copper Harbor on the Absolute Michigan Map of Michigan (for some reason The Google has them listed in Laurium).

Depot Restaurant - Clara's by j image

Clara's on the River sits on the waterfront in Battle Creek and occupies the historic Michigan Central Railroad Depot (1888), whose weathered Lake Superior red sandstone and clock tower look much as they did in their heyday. Clara's Lansing station is at the Michigan Central Railroad Depot which is rumored to have also been used as a backdrop in the production and shooting of the famous novel turned movie, Anatomy of a Murder. Both locations are beautifully restored with plenty for the kids to look at and learn from!

The menu at both restaurants features a diverse sampling of American and international dishes from staples like sandwiches and prime rib to Cajun meatloaf to New Zealand orange roughy. Clara's tends to stay busy throughout the year, so reservations are suggested.

Visit the web site for Clara's Restaurants and see the Battle Creek and Lansing locations on Absolute Michigan's Map of Michigan.

Sit 'er down... by IntangibleArts

The first stops on our month-long tour of Michigan restaurants were diners, breakfast joints and hometown favorites. We picked four of Michigan's most notable:

• Rosie's Diner in Rockford, Michigan
• The Fleetwood Diner in Ann Arbor, Lansing & Kentwood
• Yesterdog in Grand Rapids
• Golden Harvest in Lansing

Was that all of them? Not remotely! We want YOU to post comments telling us about all the ones we didn't feature, why you love them and where people can find them on or offline.

Golden Harvest by Diamond Park Photography

For more than 40 years, people from all over Lansing have started their day at the Golden Harvest Restaurant in Lansing's Old Town. With seven tables and a long, L-shaped counter, the Harvest is a small diner, but the staff is always friendly and you don’t have to wait long for your food.

Everything they serve is under $6, so filling your stomach won’t empty your wallet. Try the Breakfast Special, omelets, waffles or pancakes as big as the plate! They also serve lunch and you can choose from hamburgers, meatloaf or roast beef and mashed potatoes.

You can visit the Golden Harvest page at MySpace, view a map to Golden Harvest in Lansing on the Absolute Michigan Map of Michigan and see just how fast their food can be in this video.

Yesterdog, Grand Rapids, photo by barronoid

Yesterdog is located in Eastown, one of the most popular places to visit when in Grand Rapids. The Hot Dogs - Yesterdog, Cheddardog, Ultradog, Krautdog and Veggiedog - are made right in front of your eyes, so you can see all of the action before sitting down to get sloppy. They say:

In 1976 Bill Lewis decided he could build a better hotdog. And build a better hotdog he did! ... The restaurant's interior takes guests back to the 1930's and 40's with vintage posters, an ornate hand crank cash register, an antique jukebox, and an old gramophone horn which serves as the "tip target" where customers toss their coins.

Warning: Yesterdog Hot Dogs are known for their messiness! Here's a map to Yesterdog on Absolute Michigan's Map of Michigan. You can learn more about them at yesterdog.com and check out The Yesterdog Documentary.

Fleetwood Mohawk by aTanguay

Food at the Fleetwood Diner is, as one might expect, no-frills, hot as blazes and delicately flavored with whatever else has been on the grill all day. This is a good thing. Come here for all manner of eggs, bacon, sausage, etc., burgers the way you want them, greasy fries, BLTs, tuna sandwiches and more. Don't miss the Fleet's most famous meal, Hippie Hash, a dizzying fry-up of shredded potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and broccoli all bound together with feta cheese and some kind of meat if you want it.

The Fleetwood has no official web site, but satisfied customer Jim Rees maintains a great Fleetwood Diner site with history, photos, links and updates like No news is good news. The Fleetwood has not been torn down for a parking garage. The Fleetwood has not gone out of business. It's still there, serving up food and coffee 24 hours a day.

Check out the original Fleetwood in Ann Arbor, the Fleetwood in Lansing and the latest Fleetwood in Kentwood (Grand Rapids) on our Absolute Michigan Map of Michigan.

Rosie's Diner by bellzatk

All month on Absolute Michigan we'll be featuring Michigan restaurants. Week one is Diners & Hometown Favorites and the first of these is "the original queen of diners and the most famous diner in the world." Rosie's was featured in the Bounty paper towel commercials that starred Nancy Walker as Rosie the Waitress, and of course we have to link over to a YouTube video of one of the commercials. That media spotlight continues to the present day - with Rosie’s featured in the inaugural episode of Food Network’s new show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. RoadsideOnline has an interesting feature titled Saving Rosie's Diner that tells how current owners Randy and Jonelle Roest purchased Rosie's in January of 2006.

Their menu features lots of what you want from a diner: burgers, sandwiches (even fried egg and bologna), fried chicken, meatloaf, hand-dipped shakes and malts and even diner-made pies.

You can visit the web site for Rosie's Diner and see where it is on Absolute Michigan's Map of Michigan.

Crab Rangoon by Shawn Botruff

For the month of February, we'll be focusing on dining in Michigan. Starting Monday, we'll be offering daily profiles of restaurants. We'll begin with diners and dives, check out some casual and family restaurants, dress up for fine dining and sample some of the great ethnic fare Michigan serves up.

We'll also try and take you a little closer to some of our state's noted chefs, wander through as many cookbooks as we can, take a look at the many culinary festivals out there, pull up a chair at some of Michigan's culinary blogs and in general try to eat our way through February and cabin fever!!

As always, we're looking for your input in the comments or by email. Michigan's a big place and we know that there's a lot out there that we haven't tasted!

Explore Michigan Restaurants

• Michigan Diners & Hometown Favorites
• Michigan Casual & Family Restaurants
• Michigan Fine Dining Restaurants
• Michigan Ethnic Restaurants

(see the ones we featured and add your own favorites!)