8.01.2025
Before I get to things I actually like about this area (and there are plenty when I'm in a good mood), one more quick story about some of the social and political dynamics up here. The peninsula where my dad has lived for twenty years is on the verge of some unwelcome change, thanks to a consortium of local vineyards getting together to sue the township for the unthinkable hubris of trying to enforce zoning laws. A federal judge found for the vineyards and there's something like a $30 million penalty to be paid. Meanwhile there's a proposal on the agenda for the next township meeting (oughta be a Youtube-worthy donnybrook and I'm sorry to miss it) which entails shutting down all publicly funded services and selling off local landmarks to private developers to raise funds to pay the judgment. If that goes through you may get your chance to Airbnb the Hesler Log House. Complimentary pie.
Anyway this is all unsettled and I'm starting to see the potential for a focused project in it. Possibly an essay, a 'creative nonfiction' piece where I pretend to not be biased about the situation and give up the ruse after the first few paragraphs. We'll see where things go.
Okay now for some positivity. The easiest way for me to celebrate the Grand Traverse region is by sharing some of the many photos I've taken while biking and walking around the last few days. Let the serenity fly.
- Dad's firepit, with crucifix-style birdfeeder
When I was in treatment for PTSD my therapist assigned me the task of visualizing a place where I feel calm as a remedy for panic. This is that place, and I'm happy to report a feeling of calmness.
- Sunset over the Bay
It's a sunset over the West Bay. I walked down here almost every night when I lived in town, even in the winter. Saw the auroras here once. Rarely a disappointment.
- Bench Near Some Crick, TART Trail, Leelanau Peninsula
I used to ride here on my lunch breaks working for a small law firm. As tranquil as it looks.
- Trail Along the Boardman River, Hannah Park
Part of what I now think of as my Sleep Walk. In the middle of town but perfectly secluded for a stretch.
- Cass Street Tunnel
The rest of the tunnel, enhanced by Bobby's work. One of the few reliable and safe routes from downtown to the waterfront. If you're cool with spiders, that is.
Alright enough of me from Michigan for now. Off to Chicago tomorrow. No shortage of stories and recollections to share from there either, to be sure. Happy August in America.