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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
TRAVERSE CITY - How do you "brand" water? If anyone has an answer to that question, its journalist and Traverse City native, J. Carl Ganter. Ganter is the executive director of an ambitious international non-profit, Circle of Blue, addressing the dangers - and opportunities -...
TRAVERSE CITY - Back in February, Sterling Hill decided to start his own business. He wanted to be in charge of his own destiny and knew what he wanted to do-own and operate a coffee shop."I just dove in and started making calls," Hill said....
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...
TRAVERSE CITY - Tom Clynes is a journalist and photographer. He's reported on Ebola outbreaks and armed conflicts in central Africa, and he's retraced Sir Edmund Hillary's climbs in New Zealand.But in April, he was in Traverse City getting public speaking coaching from area consultant...
We all know the importance of dressing for success when it comes to job-hunting, but it's just as important - critically important, says one best-selling book author - to pay close attention to your looks once you land the position. Your appearance is paramount to the...
