I have lived in northern Michigan for 22 years and in Traverse City for just over 10 of those years. I own the BC Pizza in Traverse City, at the bottom of Lafranier hill. It has been so fun but also challenging and lots of hard work over the past 5 years. I have never been one to turn away from a good challenge because in my family we believe, hard work always pays off. I also love getting involved in community events and fundraisers. There are so many great causes and great people in this town!
Q: Please tell us about yourself.
I live just south of Traverse City with my fiancé, Josh, and our lovable dog Duncan. I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I adore my nephews, almost all animals (except spiders, eww), traveling, organizing, puzzles, and music. This time of year though, a good series to binge is often my favorite pass time when not working.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am currently the owner/operator of BC Pizza Traverse City. I took over this location 5 years ago but I have been in the restaurant industry almost my entire adult life. It is an industry that is in your blood, I think, it is hard to leave, even when you do, you circle back. Some of us are just meant to be in hospitality. There is something about the busy times, the rush of a crazy shift and everyone working as a team that is so satisfying. No restaurant can be successful without a whole team of people. I tell the staff all the time – we are making pizza! Pizza makes everyone HAPPY! That has to be the best part of what I do.
Q: What is your favorite book?
I must admit, I haven’t done nearly enough reading in the past few years – I will get back to you in 2024 – it is a resolution for 2023.
Q: What are some of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Oh my, there are SO MANY amazing places in this town. They all offer something unique and no matter what, someone will be left out but here is a little something for everyone. Stella, Towne Plaza, Red Ginger, Firefly, Bootleggers, Good Harbor Coffee, and Slabtown.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? What brought you to Grand Traverse County?
I have lived here for 10 years and I moved here from Petoskey on sort of a whim. My best friend of many years lived here and she needed a roomie, so here I am. Things happen for a reason.
Q: What advice would you give to people who want to visit our community?
Make sure you give yourself a couple of days at least. There is a lot to do not just in the city but on the peninsulas and the surrounding areas. So many beautiful spots. Shop at the local stores and eat as much as you can at the local restaurants! You will never run out of great places. Also, this is our home. Be kind to it and be kind to those making your stay memorable. Lastly, top off a great day or night with BC Pizza!
Q: If you could choose anyone today with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you all meet?
I would meet ANYONE at Towne Plaza for brunch.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Even though it is a larger town, especially in northern Michigan, it still always feels like family and the community shows up for each other.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I grew up in New Jersey. My family trained/owned Standardbred racehorses all over the world. Many still do.
Q: Which yearly event in Grand Traverse County do you enjoy best?
Traverse City Film Festival – love the free movies at the open space! It brings the community together and it is 100% FREE.
Q: What is your favorite season in Northern Michigan? And what is your favorite activity to do in that season?
Autumn for sure! The weather cools down just a bit but it is still perfect for being outdoors. Things slow down just enough and we can all take a deep breath and truly enjoy where we live. Summer is amazing but things move so quickly and it is always so busy.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Home is not a location – it is where you feel happy, safe, secure and loved.
