FRIDAY, MAY 10 ~ DETROIT GOLF CLUB:
May 10, 2024 ~ Rocket Mortgage Classic Executive Director Jason Langwell and Rocket Mortgage CEO Casey Hurbis join guest host Mark Hollis live at the Detroit Golf Club as part of the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour. Learn about the meticulous year-round planning that goes into the Rocket Mortgage Classic, with a look at the extensive logistical preparations, volunteer management, and community engagement. The guests also talk about recent successes that the city has experienced in executing large sporting events, and muse on the potential for attracting other major events such as the MLB’s All-Star Game and the NFL’s Super Bowl.
May 10, 2024 ~ The John Shippen Director of Marketing and Development Soloman Hughes joins the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour to talk about their commitment to expanding Black representation in golf, both on the course and behind the scenes. You’ll also learn about The John Shippen National Invitational Presented by Rocket Mortgage, a 36-hole stroke play competition that will provide the winner with an exemption into the PGA Tour’s 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic.
May 10, 2024 ~ Detroit Reginal Chamber Chief Operating Officer Tammy Carnrike talks with guest host Mark Hollis on the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour about the Mackinac Policy Conference, which happens May 28 to 31 in and around the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Learn about the Chamber’s efforts to bring together leaders from across the state and nation to discuss critical issues affecting Michigan’s economy and workforce.
May 10, 2024 ~ Boyne Golf Director of Marketing and Golf Sales Ken Griffin speaks with guest host Mark Hollis on the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour to spotlight Michigan’s growing prominence as a golfing destination. Hear about some of the prestigious events coming to Boyne Resorts, plus preview Michigan’s Magnificent 10, which includes courses at Bay Harbor Golf Club, The Highlands, Boyne Mountain, and the Crooked Tree Golf Club.
May 10, 2024 ~ Guest host Mark Hollis talks with Hidden River Golf and Casting Club Owner John Duffy as part of the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour. Learn about the significant enhancements that this northern Michigan destination has undergone over the last few years, including clubhouse renovations and course amenity improvements.
May 10, 2024 ~ Guest host Mark Hollis tees off the final day of the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour live from the Detroit Golf Club. In this golf-centric instalment, preview some of Michigan’s most exquisite courses, learn about golf initiatives that support the community and the sport, and hear about some of the prestigious golf events coming to the state, including the PGA Tour’s 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic. Guests include Hidden River Golf and Casting Club Owner John Duffy, Boyne Golf Director of Marketing and Golf Sales Ken Griffin, The John Shippen Director of Marketing and Development Soloman Hughes, and Rocket Mortgage Classic Executive Director Jason Langwell.
THURSDAY, MAY 9 ~ ANN ARBOR’S MICHIGAN THEATRE:
May 9, 2024 ~ Ann Arbor City Administrator Milton Dohoney Jr. joins Paul W. on the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour to talk about Ann Arbor’s 200th anniversary, which offers a variety of celebratory events May 17 through 25. Learn more at A2Bicentennial.org.
May 9, 2024 ~ Marquee Arts Cinema Program Director Nick Alderink talks about the rich history and current successes of the theaters that his company stewards, which include Ann Arbor’s Michigan Theater and State Theater. Listen as Nick talks with Paul W. on the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour about the diverse range of programming that the theaters offer, including art house, indie, and critically acclaimed titles, plus modern Hollywood blockbusters and family friendly entertainment options.
May 9, 2024 ~ Ann Arbor Summer Festival Associate Director James Carter visits with Paul W. on the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour about the event’s 41st season, previewing some of the highlights in store for this year’s attendees. Features include live performances by Tornetta Davis, the international trampoline troupe Kick-Ass, Gregory Allen Isaacoff, and Jay Gilligan. Other highlights include Movies by Moonlight in collaboration with the Michigan Theater, and family-friendly activities such as Kids Rock. Learn more about the Ann Arbor Summer Festival by visiting A2SF.org.
May 9, 2024 ~ Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum Director Dr. Anthony Kolenic talks with Paul W. on the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour about the significance of these University of Michigan-owned facilities, and the research projects that they have underway to help various regions grow crops and other vegetation in landscapes that are evolving due to climate change.
May 9, 2024 ~ Dean Transportation CEO Kellie Dean reminisces with Paul W. about their 21-year partnership in supporting the Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour. Kellie and Paul also talk about Dean Transportation’s commitment to serving the travel needs of those visiting our state, and to providing each of their customers with clean, comfortable, and safe statewide transportation.
May 9, 2024 ~ Destination Ann Arbor Director of Public Affairs Chad Webesick closes out our Ann Arbor leg of the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour with a look at a few more attractions and happenings beyond those highlighted earlier as a part of the Ann Arbor Bicentennial Celebration. Of note, the Thunder Over Michigan Air Show, the recently rebranded Michigan Flight Museum, and the Dexter Bicentennial Celebration. Learn about these events and more by visiting AnnArbor.org.
May 9, 2024 ~ Paul W. takes the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour to Ann Arbor for a look at the city’s year-long bicentennial celebration. Learn about the special plans, annual events, and spectacular locations that make this city a true gem of the Midwest. Guests include Ann Arbor City Administrator Milton Dohoney Jr., Ann Arbor Summer Festival Associate Director James Carter, Dean Transportation CEO Kelly Dean, and Destination Ann Arbor Director of Public Affairs Chad Webesick.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 ~ GREAT LAKES BAY REGIONAL CONVENTION AND VISITOR’S BUREAU:
May 8, 2024 ~ Great Lakes Bay Reginal Convention and Visitor’s Bureau CEO Annie Rummel joins the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour to highlight some of the events and attractions that await travelers this summer in the Great Lakes Bay region. Of note, Annie shares her excitement for the 2024 Saginaw Memorial Cup ice hockey tournament at the Dow Events Center May 24 through June 2. Additionally, Rummel tells the story of Mr. Henry G. Marsh, Saginaw’s first black mayor, spotlighting his significant impact on the region and the efforts now underway to memorialize his contributions.
May 8, 2024 ~ Frankenmuth Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Jamie Furbush and her husband, Greater Saginaw Hockey Association President Jamie Furbush (yes … they both have the same name!) talk on the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour about the Saginaw Memorial Cup ice hockey tournament and the associated efforts that are encouraging youth involvement in the sport. Initiatives include a ball hockey tournament, which aims to make the sport more accessible to all kids, regardless of their skating ability.
May 8, 2024 ~ Saginaw Spirit President and Managing Partner Craig Goslin guests on the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour to share his immense pride in his organization’s efforts to bring the 2024 Memorial Cup to Saginaw. Craig tells us that guests will enjoy top-notch junior hockey, plus a fun-filled Fan Fest featuring a synthetic ice rink, rock climbing, and more.
May 8, 2024 ~ Saginaw Spirit Hockey General Manager Dave Drinkel joins Paul W. on the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour to talk about his organization’s efforts behind bringing the Saginaw Memorial Cup ice hockey tournament to the region. Share in Dave’s excitement as he prepares to welcome thousands of fans to see the future stars of the NHL in action at Saginaw’s Dow Events Center May 24 through June 2.
May 8, 2024 ~ Saginaw is buzzing with anticipation for the 2024 Memorial Cup! Listen in on the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour as Saginaw Spirit Special Events Sales Director Jimmy Greene and Saginaw Spirit Local Events Manager Kayla Pionk talk about the teamwork and community spirit behind presenting every aspect of the tournament, from the opening ceremony to the trophy presentation celebration!
May 8, 2024 ~ Paul W. continues the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour live from the offices of the Great Lakes Bay Reginal Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. Learn about many of the great things there are to see and do in the Great Lakes Bay region this summer, with emphasis on the 2024 Saginaw Memorial Cup ice hockey tournament, which happens at the Down Events Center May 24 through June 2. Guests include Great Lakes Bay Reginal Convention and Visitor’s Bureau CEO Annie Rummel, Frankenmuth Convention and Visitors Bureau president and CEO Jamie Furbush, and Saginaw Spirit Hockey General Manager Dave Drinkel.
TUESDAY, MAY 7 ~ SHORT’S ELK RAPIDS PULL BARN:
May 7, 2024 ~ Short’s Brewing Company Founder Joe Short joins the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour live from his Pull Barn location in Elk Rapids. Listen as the hops maestro tells the story behind brewing up 20 years of success, with a look their iconic craft beers, their commitment to the northern Michigan community, and their passion for sharing the Short’s experience with everyone.
May 7, 2024 ~ Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry President Chris Shepler reminisces with Paul W. during the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour about his family’s storied high-speed transportation service. Listen as Chris tells of his team’s commitment to passenger safety and comfort, plus hear of new efforts underway that will ensure high customer satisfaction well into the future. Discover here how Shepler’s is the fastest, most worry-free access to the island destination that connects you with an unparalleled window to the past.
May 7, 2024 ~ Elks Rapids Marina General Manager John Conrad talks on the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour about the marina’s significant revitalization, with highlight of their new electric zero-emission Swedish shore boats. John also tells us about the city’s upcoming Harbor Days festival, which will feature a showcase of vintage vessels, plus the latest in fiberglass, aluminum, and pontoon boat models.
May 7, 2024 ~ Traverse Connect CFO Mandy Sentieri joins the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour to discuss her organization’s efforts to boost the Grand Traverse region’s economy. Their goal is to make the area a diverse economic hub by 2030, with focus on high-quality jobs and growth in various sectors, including the burgeoning blue economy, which focuses on the sustainable use of resources in coastal regions. Other areas of focus include the agriculture and outdoor recreation sectors, which continue to significantly contribute to the region’s economic vitality.
May 7, 2024 ~ ITC Holdings Corp. Director of Public Affairs Kwafo Adarkwa talks with Paul W. on the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour about the role his company is playing in helping to power Michigan’s future. Kwafo talks on the company’s commitment to reducing electricity costs, and ensuring reliability, all while working with key partners to adapt sustainable clean energy technologies that will meet with the region’s evolving energy needs.
May 7, 2024 ~ Day two of the Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour takes us to the City of Elk Rapids in the Grand Travers Bay region. Join Paul as he broadcasts live from Short’s Brewing’s Pull Barn for a visit with those who are working to make the region a vibrant place to work, live, play, and grow. Guests include Short’s Brewing Company Founder Joe Short, Traverse Connect CFO Mandy Sentieri, Elks Rapids Marina General Manager John Conrad, and ITC Holdings Corp. Director of Public Affairs Kwafo Adarkwa.
MONDAY, MAY 6, 2024 ~ GRAND HOTEL:
May 6, 2024 ~ Grand Hotel President David Jurcak helps kick-off the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour live from Mackinac Island, with a look what’s new at the iconic hotel, including the ongoing restoration efforts, the upcoming Mackinac Policy Conference, and the introduction of the resort’s all-new Mackinac Pizza Company.
May 6, 2024 ~ Grand Hotel Resident Historian Bob Tagatz joins the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour to tell just some of the tales behind the iconic Mackinac Island hotel. From horse-drawn carriages to Hollywood glamour … get the backstory here!
May 6, 2024 ~ Grand Hotel Vice President of Operations Jeff Hess talks with Paul W. as part of the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour about the variety of special events that are on the hotel’s calendar for this summer. Of note, On the Case with Jane Seymour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at her hit Acorn TV detective show, “Harry Wild.” Also scheduled, the Lilac Festival Weekend, a Summer Wine Appreciation Weekend, and Cork & Fork, a celebration of female culinary talent.
May 6, 2024 ~ Travel Michigan Media, Digital, and Industry Relations Manager Nick Nerbonne joins in on the 2024 Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour to offer a preview of the beauty and excitement awaiting travelers in the Great Lakes State. Step back in time as we explore the allure and grandeur of historic Mackinac Island, catch a sunrise or a sunset at one of Michigan’s coastal destinations, or buckle up for heart-pounding excitement at the Detroit Chevrolet Grand Prix! Discover here how Pure Michigan has something to offer everyone this summer!
May 6, 2024 ~ Paul W. Smith kicks-off the 2024 Pure Michigan Tour live from the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Get a preview of what’s happening at the iconic hotel throughout the 2024 summer season, with a look at some of their incredible vacation values and glimpses into the history that makes this grand hotel America’s Summer Place. Guests include Grand Hotel President David Jurcak, Grand Hotel Vice President of Operations Jeff Hess, Travel Michigan Media, Digital, and Industry Relations Manager Nick Nerbonne, and Grand Hotel Resident Historian Bob Tagatz.
FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2023 ~ DETROIT GOLF CLUB:
May 5, 2023 ~ Laura Grannemann, vice-president of the Rocket Community Fund and executive director of the Gilbert Family Foundation, talks to Paul W. about the Rocket Mortgage Classic‘s “Changing the Course” initiative, and she says the goal is to bridge the digital divide in Detroit.
May 5, 2023 ~ Rocket Mortgage Classic Executive Director Jason Langwell talks to Paul W. about the Rocket Mortgage Classic, and he says it’s going to be bigger and better than ever with many top golfers coming to town to play at the Detroit Golf Club.
May 5, 2023 ~ Intersport Director of Marketing and Development Solomon Hughes talks to Paul W. about the The John Shippen National Invitational, one of several events that helps create opportunities in gold for Black men and women. The John Shippen Invitational takes place at the Detroit Golf Club June 23 through 25.
THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2023 ~ BAY COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM:
May 4, 2023 ~ Bay City City Manager Dana Muscott talks to Paul W. about this city in the Great Lakes Bay Region, and she says some great musical acts are coming to town this summer, including “Here Come The Mummies.”
May 4, 2023 ~ Bay County Historical Society Director Mike Bacigalupo talks to Paul W. about the Bay County Historical Museum, and he says it’s a gem in the Great Lakes Bay Region that includes a Rock & Roll Legends Hall of Fame exhibit.
May 4, 2023 ~ Dean Transportation Owner Kellie Dean talks to Paul W. about the 20th year of supporting the Paul W. Smith Pure Michigan Tour, and he says he’s proud to be part of the effort.
May 4, 2023 ~ Saginaw Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill and Great Lakes Bay Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau CEO Annette Rummel tell Paul W. they are thrilled that the Memorial Cup is coming to Saginaw in May of 2024, and it’s going to be great for the entire State of Michigan.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 2023 ~ GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT AND SPA:
May 3, 2023 ~ Cherry Capital Airport CEO Kevin Klein tells Paul W. how the team at his Traverse City airport works hard to make sure passengers have a great travel experience, and he says Sun Country Airlines begins non-stop service at the airport this June.
May 3, 2023 ~ Traverse City Tourism President & CEO Trevor Tkach talks to Paul W. about the many things to do in Traverse City, and he says come enjoy the wine, beer, beautiful lakes, and golf this summer and fall.
May 3, 2023 ~ Grand Traverse Resort & Spa Communications Manager Caroline Rizzo talks to Paul W. live from the beautiful resort, and she says make your reservations now so the family can enjoy the many activities that will be offered at the resort this summer.
May 3, 2023 ~ May is Michigan Wine Month, and Marie-Chantal Dalese, president and CEO of Chateau Chantal, tells Paul W. it’s a great time to visit Traverse City and pay a visit to this beautiful winery and inn on Old Mission Peninsula.
TUESDAY, MAY 2, 2023 ~ GRAND HOTEL:
May 2, 2023 ~ Grand Hotel President of Operations David Jurcak talks to Paul W. about the 2023 season at the beautiful hotel, and he says renovations are underway on the facade of the building and Detroit style pizza is coming to the island.
May 2, 2023 ~ Grand Hotel Executive Chef Darren Anklam talks to Paul W. about the many Grand Hotel restaurants and the great food at the hotel, and he says he’s really looking forward to the Detroit style pizza at the new Mackinac Island Pizza Company Parlor.
May 2, 2023 ~ Grand Hotel Vice-President of Guest Experiences Jimmy Kovel talks to Paul W. about the many activities that will be offered at the historic hotel during the 2023 season.
May 2, 2023 ~ Grand Hotel Resident Historian Bob Tagatz talks about his love of the historic hotel, and he tells Paul W. he really enjoys talking with guests about the history of the beautiful hotel and Mackinac Island.
May 2, 2023 ~ Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry President Chris Shepler talks to Paul W. about the ferry business, and he says they are geared up and ready for a great season of ferrying passengers across the Straits of Mackinac.
MONDAY, MAY 1, 2023 ~ SAGANING EAGLES CASINO HOTEL:
May 1, 2023 ~ ITC Michigan President Simon Whitelocke talks to Paul W. live from the Saganing Eagles Landing Casino and Hotel about the electric transmission company’s work upgrading the grid both in the area and around the State of Michigan.
May 1, 2023 ~ Travel Michigan, Michigan Economic Development Corporation Vice President Dave Lorenz talks to Paul W. about the new Pure Michigan “Keep it Fresh” campaign, and he says now is the time to plan your Michigan vacation, because “your trip begins at Michigan.org.”
May 1, 2023 ~ Erik Rodriguez, public relations director for the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, and Michelle Pfund, marketing and guest services manager for Saganing Eagles Landing Casino and Hotel talk to Paul W. about the casino and hotel, and they say it’s a great place to visit in Standish.
May 1, 2023 ~ Kevin Blaser, business development and energy operations manager for Migizi Economic Development Company, talks to Paul W. about the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe‘s work on energy independence.