BOWERS HARBOR INN REOPENS IN STYLE
Hundreds Attend VIP Celebration at Historic Restaurant

TRAVERSE CITY, MI., MAY 24, 2006 – More than 400 strong attended the elegant grand reopening of the legendary Bowers Harbor Inn on Old Mission Peninsula on Friday, May 19.

The Inn was purchased in March by long time Old Mission Peninsula residents Jon Carlson and Greg Lobdell.

Among the attendees was Fred Laughlin, director of Northwestern Michigan College's Culinary Institute. Said Laughlin, "It was so good to see a lot of people from Old Mission and Traverse at the spectacular reopening. And, it was great to see that an Old Mission Peninsula tradition at Bowers will be preserved as a fine dining establishment."

Greg Lobdell added, "It's an honor for Jon and I and our team to be stewards of this important property. Friday night was a celebration of the history, as well as an exciting look forward."

Also in attendance at the event were Old Mission residents, elected officials, and community leaders.

Ugrades to the Bowers Harbor Inn dining rooms and upstairs restrooms have already been completed. At the conclusion of the busy summer season, major renovations and a potential expansion will begin, with completion scheduled within eighteen months. The Inn will continue to be open during the renovations to serve the public.

Lobdell and Carlson have also purchased the former Dill's Olde Towne Saloon site, and will open The Blue Tractor Cook Shop at that location in early July.

Built in the 1880's as a summer retreat for Chicago lumber baron J.W. Stickney, Bowers Harbor Inn sits along West Grand Traverse Bay. Schelde Enterprises purchased the Inn in 1974. The Inn soon became the flagship restaurant of Schelde Enterprises, and quickly gained a reputation for fine dining and outstanding wines. The Bowery is known for serving great food in a fun, casual atmosphere.