Part 2 – Downtown Traverse City – Then and Now

Host Mike Dell continues his exploration of Traverse City, focusing on Union Street and reminiscing about the area. He begins by revisiting Front Street, mentioning the Beetle Building—a structure he associates with childhood memories of a Big Boy restaurant. He shares how the building has changed over time, including the closure of Mackinac Brewing and the presence of shops like Hocus Pocus, a magic store where he bought tricks as a kid. Transitioning to Union Street, Mike describes its location on the west end of downtown Traverse City, starting at the bay and discussing the former Morgan McCool fruit processing plant, known for processing Motts apple products. After the plant’s closure, the land was donated to the college, and the area was transformed into an open space that hosts the National Cherry Festival and other events. As Mike moves further into the episode, he details various buildings and businesses along Union Street. He describes a large apartment building, previously home to a gas station and a bank, and mentions parking lots and city parking behind those buildings. He reminisces about a fire that affected a building housing a café called “The Dish,” recounting its history and the local establishment Mel G’s Music Shop, where he and fellow band members would purchase instruments. Continuing his trip down memory lane, Mike mentions a pizza place called Papa Jay’s with an arcade and the bar zone that exists along Union Street, detailing Union Street Station and the now-closed Bill’s Dills, known for karaoke. He reflects on both establishments’ significance in local nightlife and connects back to his personal memories associated with them, including a karaoke mistress named Laura. Mike shares tidbits about local bars, like Brady’s bar, which has been a staple in the community, and its menu highlighting bluegill fish. He briefly touches on the history of gas stations and notable locations like a mechanic shop that was formerly a gas station. As he wraps up this extensive recounting, he shares memories of City Bike Shop, where he purchased his bicycle and had it serviced, and mentions Fivensons, known for their memorable TV commercials. After a lengthy trip through the history of Union Street and its surroundings, he concludes by discussing upcoming episodes and the intent to continue providing content as part of National Podcast Post Month. Mike thanks his listeners for staying engaged and expresses excitement about future topics, hinting at an aviation-related episode to come, before signing off.