The Homestead Celebrates 30 Years of Great Northern Michigan Skiing with Special Events, Concerts & Nordic-Inspired Festivals

Hard to imagine there’s another Michigan winter right around the corner. Yet, The Homestead is already preparing for a season-long celebration marking three decades of ski and snowboarding fun.

“Our thirtieth ski season is a special milestone,” says The Resort’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Jamie Jewell. “There have been many changes to the ski area at The Homestead since it opened in 1983. It’s really amazing when you look back at how modestly it all started.”

1983 — The Homestead’s ski area opened with two three-person chair lifts, one two-person chairlift and a rope (pony) tow and state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment. Lifts were carefully installed below the tree line and closer to the ground than lifts at other ski areas for the purpose of providing a secure, safe feeling for new skiers and children learning to ski.

1985 — The Homestead became the first resort in the Midwest to limit ticket sales to prevent overcrowding.

1989 — The Homestead launched its $5 ski club program, a unique season pass for locals who paid just $5 for a pass and an additional $5 every time they came to ski.

1993 — The Homestead added three downhill race courses and broke ground on development of chalet style homes and rental properties for vacationing families and couples.

1996 — A Par 3, 9-hole golf courses was added, built in part on the downhill ski slopes.

2000 — The Magic Carpet© and was installed, along with a new “Lifetime Skills Learning Center: Ski School” and Gnomes lift-ticket and rental building.

2002 — Glade Run and terrain park were added.

2008 — Expanded multi-seasonal use of the ski area by adding wedding ceremony and reception patios overlooking Glen Lake valley and Sleeping Bear Bay.

2012 — The Homestead’s Snowsports School was remodeled

The Homestead has always been a favorite winter retreat for young couples and families with children, according to Jewell. Striving to improve service for this core group of winter guests has inspired every change to the ski area over the last 30 years.

“Children who learned to ski at The Homestead thirty years ago are now parents themselves,” she says. “There are hundreds of families that grew up skiing here. And in a way, The Resort has grown up with them. Yet some things have never changed. Namely our dedication to providing a top-notch experience, which includes limited lift ticket sales so the slopes are never crowded and the best lift ticket, rental, lesson and ski packages in Northern Michigan.”

The schedule of events celebrating 30 years of skiing at The Homestead’s is already shaping up to include many events, parties and special deals, says Jewell. Already on the docket are:

* A New Year’s Eve dinner and dance party — including a cocktail reception, three-course “surf and turf” dinner, champagne toast at midnight and dancing with special musical act The Corvairs — at Mountain Flowers Lodge.

* The Homestead’s 30th Anniversary sweepstakes offering $10,000 in prizes throughout the winter season.

* Ski demo days where representatives from major ski manufacturers will be at The Homestead allowing guests to try out new, state-of-the-art equipment.

* Special food events at the newly designed open-air at Beppi’s, which features outdoor seating, two outdoor gas fireplaces and outdoor heaters.

* Family magic show & dinner in early January featuring Magic Stu (aka Stuart MacDonald) World Class Magician who is in the Hall of Fame of Magic

* Live entertainment throughout the season at Beppi’s with regularly scheduled musicians including Chris Skellenger, New Third Coast, Accidentals, Blake Elliott, Drive South and E-Minor.

As part of its 30th Anniversary sweepstakes, The Homestead is currently running a photo contest on Facebook. Past guests who share their old ski vacation photos from The Resort get a chance to win some great prizes every month throughout the winter season. For more information on this and more 30th Anniversary events and festivals currently in the works, check out The Homestead’s website, Twitter, and Facebook pages.

Art From Michigan's Wine Country: Taste the Passion This February in Glen Arbor

Friday, February 3rd (6-8pm)
Mountain Flowers Lodge
The Homestead Resort
Glen Arbor, Michigan

Great art, wine and food are the main events of a special evening which kicks off the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association’s Taste the Passion weekend. For a fourth year, this fun winter event features wine from Leelanau wineries, original art by local artists and a fabulous small plates menu designed by The Homestead’s Chef Piombo.

The price is $20 per person advance reservation by February 2 and includes one glass of wine and food stations with delectable small plates and coffee. Additional wine available for $4/glass or three glasses for $10. Call The Homestead, 334-5100, to make a reservation with will call ticket at the door for pre-paid reservations. $25 per person admission at the door.

The invitational art exhibit and sale offers recent original works by nine Leelanau artists. The artists will be on hand to discuss their work. This is a great opportunity to meet local artists and celebrate a perfect pairing of wine and art. A portion of the art sales will benefit GAAA’s summer programs.

Five dollars of each ticket goes to support the Glen Arbor Art Association class scholarships and a free after-school art program for Glen Lake students. Scholarship assistance and the after-school art program provide arts opportunities for those who could not otherwise afford art classes.

For more information go to:
www.glenarborart.org
www.thehomesteadresort.com
www.lpwines.com

Or call the GAAA office at 334-6112

The Homestead to Raise Funds for Father Fred Foundation

The Homestead will donate $50 to Traverse City’s Father Fred Foundation for every “Ski for a Cause” package sold through March 6, 2011.

“We are so excited to have the Homestead ‘double up’ with us this month,” said Father Fred’s David Abeel. “The Frostbite food drive has taken on a whole new personality with The Homestead’s ski pass promotion tied to donations at Fox Motors. The Ski for a Cause package takes us to a whole new level.”

Abeel went on to explain that the timing of the extra promotion is especially opportune for Father Fred: “All gifts received in the month of Feb will be matched dollar for dollar by two very generous donors who have challenged us to raise $75,000 in the next 28 days.” Every February sale of a Ski for a Cause package at The Homestead, then, will mean a total of $100 for the much-loved Foundation, which has been an indispensable lifeline for more struggling families and individuals than ever since the recession began in 2008.

“Last year,” says Abeel, “the Father Fred Food pantry helped over 3,900 families facing utility shutoffs or needing help with groceries. We are so thankful for this promotion helping us during what is a difficult season for many.”

The Homestead’s Jamie Jewell says the resort is thrilled to be able to help Father Fred again. “We continue to hope that our relationship with them will grow in the future since our promotions for them have been so successful. Father Fred means a lot to everyone in our organization and we’re always trying to find new ways to support such great work.”

For more information on Ski for a Cause, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com/specials.php or call 231.334.5000.

To learn more about the Father Fred Foundation, visit www.fatherfred.org or call 231.947.2055.

The Homestead Wins 2011 Best of Weddings Editors' Pick Award from The Knot

Longtime local favorite The Homestead has been recognized this year by The Knot as a top pick amongst wedding venues.

As the leader in wedding news and information, The Knot surveys thousands of brides and grooms every year to find the very best of everything for its newly-engaged readers. Between its national and regional magazines and its dominant online presence, The Knot has become the go-to resource for wedding planning throughout the US and in parts of Canada.

The Homestead offers several sites for picturesque wedding ceremonies and receptions for up to one hundred and eighty guests. The Leelanau County resort has hosted scenic weddings along its private Lake Michigan beachfront for over thirty years, but has grown exponentially as a wedding destination since adding the top of its ski area, Bay Mountain, to its list of venues, as well as building both Mountain Flowers Lodge and Camp Firefly, two private event facilities that host scores of newlyweds and their guests in celebration each season.

The Knot awards its “Best of Weddings” status every year to the select vendors that have proved themselves standouts either by earning the endorsement of the brides surveyed, or by actually being selected as an “Editors’ Pick.” Having received one glowing review after another from happy newlyweds, The Homestead is a 2011 Best of Weddings pick not only according to former clients who rated venues for The Knot, but also according to the publication’s in-house experts, who have deemed the resort an Editor’s Pick in the wedding venue category.

Planning a wedding can be an overwhelming task, so many brides and grooms rely on the ratings and reviews in all of The Knot’s categories as they pin down the details for their own ceremonies. The magazine rates vendors of even the tiniest of wedding products and services so its readers can learn all they want about local caterers, cake makers, dress shops, jewelers, bands, bartenders, and anything else their events require. Having two full-time wedding planners on its team, The Homestead also helps brides-to-be with the planning process, sharing inside information and recommendations for a number of area experts like photographers and florists. The resort has developed special relationships with several of its favorite local vendors, which can help couples to negotiate as they contract for services at one of The Homestead’s venues.

The resort’s owner, Robert Kuras, was thrilled with the recognition, which he says his team has earned. “The Knot is the industry leader in rating wedding services, so we know how well they understand what makes a great wedding venue. We’re just incredibly honored that they’ve selected us,” said Kuras. He went on to say that in-house wedding planners Barb Ellis and Lindy Kellogg have always “gone the extra mile” for brides and their guests to be sure everything goes according to plan. “Our outdoor views of Lake Michigan are incredible,” Kuras commented, “but when someone’s big day arrives and the forecast isn’t cooperating, I’ve seen them move everything inside totally seamlessly and then move it back outside again when the sun starts to shine, no questions asked. We’re really lucky to have such great people here, and I think that personal touch has been important to a lot of couples.”

Both Ellis and Kellogg were elated at the news of The Homestead’s honor and are anticipating a very busy 2011 season.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5000.

The Homestead Offers Lifetime Skills Learning Programs in the Heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

More and more, travelers are looking to learn something while on vacation. The Homestead in Glen Arbor offers a variety of programs aimed at enriching lives, surrounded by the scenic natural beauty of the Leelanau Peninsula. On this year’s schedule:

o Dave Pelz Scoring Game School: The Dave Pelz Scoring Game School applies a practical, yet scientific approach to golf instruction inside of 100 yards from the hole. Pelz, the physicist turned golf researcher and teacher, has helped golfers of all ability levels lower their scores. Countless amateurs attest to that. So do leading professionals Beth Daniel, Lee Janzen, Phil Mickelson, Se Ri Pak, Vijay Singh, Annika Sorenstam and Mike Weir! Sessions offered through August 31, with one day clinics, 2-day short game school or 3-day scoring game school.

o Orvis Michigan Fly Fishing School: Orvis is a name that has been synonymous with fly fishing since 1856. Its officially sanctioned Orvis Michigan Fly Fishing School is but one of ten such schools in the county. The school offers classes in fly casting, fishing and tying and has certified guides available for unforgettable outings. Programs are offered weekends, through the end of September and include two-day schools, half-hour and one-hour lessons and half- and full-day guided trips.

o Watercolor Painting Workshop: Students will create a series of 3 to 9 small paintings on a specific subject, under the auspices of Edee Joppich and offered through the Glen Arbor Art Association. Edee encourages originality and will demonstrate many of her traditional as well as innovative ways of creating beautiful effects with watercolor. In-depth critiques along with color and design instruction make an Edee Joppich workshop an invaluable opportunity for serious painters at every level of experience. Offered October 4-7, 2010.

o Great Lakes Photo Tour: Mark S. Carlson, a well-known naturalist photographer and Bob Grzesiak, a digital photography instructor, offer programs that include field trips with helpful tips on how to take better photographs of nature. The tours treat participants to some of the most inspiring scenic areas in the Great Lakes region. Seasonal tours are offered each year. Offered October 15-17, 2010.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community, located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100. Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thehomesteadmi

The Homestead Names Tara Ziegler as 2009 “Associate of the Year”

Tara Ziegler, Manager for Spa Amira at The Homestead in Glen Arbor, has been named the resort’s 2009 “Associate of the Year.” Tara has been with the resort since May 2008.

“Tara has done a wonderful job managing the spa operations.” says Jamie Jewell, Senior Manager at The Homestead. “We knew when we added a spa that we needed a manager who had the skills to operate successfully, establish unique programming and hire and train a staff to deliver excellent service. Tara has done that and more which has earned her the recognition of Associate of the Year.”

“I was certainly very surprised,” said Tara, of both being nominated and winning the award. “One of the things I love about working at The Homestead is the extraordinary team of people – we support each other and have a sense of camaraderie that I haven't experienced anywhere else.”

In addition to the acclaim that the title “Associate of the Year” holds, Tara receives a trip to any vacation destination of her choice, including two airline tickets and $500 in spending money.

“The trip is such an amazing gift, and I intend to take full advantage of the opportunity,” Tara said. “I haven’t made a final decision yet, but I am considering Nice, France on the Riviera or Napa Valley, California. With a choice like that, I feel like I can't really go wrong.”

With 200 summer and 100 winter employees, The Homestead is one of the region’s largest single employers. The team is lead by members of a core group of associates who all believe that a job done right starts with taking a Personal Responsibility In Delivering Excellence. It’s called PRIDE.

From managers and trainers to year-round employees who do everything from taking reservations to working in outdoor maintenance, there are only 39 members of PRIDE. This special group is eligible for unique employment benefits at The Homestead – one of them being the distinction as “Associate of the Year.”

Other nominees for “Associate of the Year” in 2009 included:

• Cyndi Salisbury, Accommodations
• Dan Stewart, Accounting
• Lindy Kellogg, Group Sales
• Steve Sanborn, Service
• Craig Winowiecki, Service
• Kevin Hennessey, Food & Beverage

Celebrating its Silver Anniversary in 2009, The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100.

Spend the Holidays at The Homestead

Couples and families will enjoy endless activities over the upcoming holiday season, at The Homestead Resort – America’s Freshwater Resort, in Glen Arbor.

Discover a place that's luxurious yet relaxed, nearby yet far away. It's a place that features fine design and inviting décor, exquisite food and memorable accommodations. Skating, snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding - without crowds - are a part of it. So, too, are magical moments for families, sparkling fires, candlelit dinners and romantic interludes for couples. It's unlike you'll discover anywhere else.

Activities on the schedule this holiday season include:

Roasted Chestnuts & Hot Apple Cider (Daily, Dec. 26-Jan. 2)
Enjoy a classic tradition of chestnuts roasting on an open fire while sipping hot apple cider. Complimentary. At the base of Bay Mountain. 4:30pm daily.

Cookie Decorating (Dec. 27 & 29)
Children can enjoy cookie decorating at Camp Tam-A-Rack at 7pm. Complimentary.

Storytime Reading (Dec. 28)
Storytime reading with hot chocolate at Camp Tam-A-Rack. 1pm. Complimentary.

Guided Snowshoe Hike (Dec. 29 & Jan. 2)
Fun for the whole family! Guided snowshoe hike on the Bay View trail. Meet at Mountain Flowers Lodge. 7pm. (Snowshoe rentals available at Mountain Flowers Lodge)

Storytime with Fuzz Foster (Dec. 30)
Local storyteller, Fuzz Foster, entertains at Camp Tam-A-Rack as part of the Kids Night Out from 6pm to 9pm. Reservations required. $25 per child, includes snack.

Torchlight Parade (Dec. 31)
Watch the magic of a torchlight parade from the base of Bay Mountain. 8pm

New Year's Eve Dinner (Dec. 31)
Enjoy a special five-course New Year's Eve dinner at Nonna's with Chef John Piombo. Serving from 5pm to 10pm. $65 per person plus tax and gratuity. Includes champagne toast at Beppi's.

Happy New Year! (Jan. 1)
Watch the New Year's Day Bowl games on six flat screen televisions at Beppi's. Open from Noon to Midnight.

Celebrating its Silver Anniversary in 2009, The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and world-class lodging, shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira, throughout all four seasons.

www.TheHomesteadResort.com

The Homestead Announces Top of the Mountain Concert

Three of Northern Michigan’s most noted musical artists are gathering on Tuesday, July 14 for a “Top of the Mountain Concert” at The Homestead -- America’s Freshwater Resort, in Glen Arbor. Pat Niemesto, Chris Skellenger and Andre Villoch will all perform between 7 and 9pm.

Pat Niemesto - As a member of the New Third Coast -- a trio of musicians who come together to deliver a unique Power Folk, Leelanau County style sound -- Pat Niemesto takes the lead on bass, fiddle, mandolin, guitar and vocals, as well as contributing to the group’s eclectic and refreshing songwriting. The strong three-part harmonies, combined with diverse instrumental musical expression, have created a large following throughout Northwestern Lower Michigan and beyond. (http://newthirdcoast.com/)

Chris Skellenger - Long noted as a songwriter/solo performer, singer/guitarist with the original Third Coast band, and now a group called Three Hour Tour, Chris Skellenger’s day job is in landscaping with the North Coast Nursery in Empire, which he owns with his wife, Susan.

Andre Villoch - For years André Villoch has performed in Michigan and Indiana as a musician, actor and comedian. As a singer/songwriter, he delivers a fun performance of original material with a percussive guitar and a lyrical voice. In 2003, André released his first album, Gum Wrapper Roses, which is now heard in 12 countries (including Antarctica). His second album, Roadworthy, was released in June 2007. (www.andrevilloch.com)

For $10 per person, guests can ride the chairlift to the top of the mountain overlooking the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Bay and enjoy an evening with some of the best music in the Northwest. A cash bar, featuring beer, wine and soda, will be available. Tickets are available by calling 231.334.5378.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – a unit of the National Park Service. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100.