Five Questions with TC Mayor Michael Estes

Last November, Traverse City residents elected a self-described change agent as its mayor. Michael Estes sat down with TCBN Publisher Luke Haase for a progress report.BN: You ran on a platform of being a listener. Give me some examples of how you're listening.ME: ...

Village Press launches new magazine

TRAVERSE CITY - Village Press, Inc. of Traverse City is launching its 10th magazine: The 45th: wine, food, and leisure in Northern Michigan. "Our target audience is the passionate 'foodies' who have an affinity for northern Michigan and are 'within a day's drive of 45,'" said...

We have a great product; here’s how we’re selling it

Despite facing some of the toughest challenges that the tourism industry has had to face here in Michigan, there is a feeling of optimism among Michigan's tourism industry. Although we are confronted by a weak economy, record gas prices, low consumer confidence and eroding discretionary...

Second homes push average prices higher

Average prices for newly-sold homes are on the rise in the Grand Traverse region even as the number of transactions decline, demonstrating the power of higher-priced second homes to help buoy the market's sagging statistics.In a surprising mathematical quirk, the average price of all homes...

Refocusing pays off: Eyewood grows despite the times

TRAVERSE CITY - Rather than focus on the state's bumpy economy, local business owner Randy Howard prefers an approach that's produced impressive results for his 14-year-old company: "Work harder and smarter.""It's not all gloom and doom," says Howard, who along with his wife Carol operate...

Assisted living will fill need in Kalkaska

KALKASKA - A new, $20 million project in Kalkaska will help meet the needs of area seniors. Ground has been broken on the two-story structure located at the southwest corner of the village. The licensed, assisted living facility will feature a 'streetscape' design on the...

Economic climate won’t flatten Exit’s momentum

TRAVERSE CITY - The owners of Exit Realty Paramount in Traverse City are entering yet another new phase of growth. Bob Rieck, Tia Rieck, and Craig Witt, the three owners of the real estate company, will move in July into one floor of a new...

How to plan a company event – and survive

No matter the size or nature of your business, the need might arise for a company-sponsored conference or training session. In fact, your business may already host this type of event on an annual or bi-annual basis. For the attendees, it could be one of...