On May 6th, The Holly Hotel Chef staff came to visit Chrissy and I, and, true to form, they brought lunch! We spent a long time discussing where we have been and are going.

The conversation danced from what they were doing now to how no one knows "hospitality" anymore, to how their families are and showing us all their new tattoos. They would all be back in a heartbeat and are set to remain on “standby and ready to report” at a moment’s notice. They all wanted to be back where they made a difference, and food and service made them feel that doing their very best meant something. Something bigger.

They desperately want to return to the Holly Hotel and do what they know. Our three Chefs have spent almost 47 years with us at the Hotel. Since the tragic fire on June 21, 2022, they have been unable to find fine dining with a culture of excellence. Each of them has job-jumped several times in positions in the food industry, stating that each departure was because it didn't meet the standards they knew at the Holly Hotel. We both felt honored that we held such a special space in their professional growth as chefs.

Then the question was asked.

"Why are we not open?”

The Holly Hotel, a community cornerstone since its establishment in 1978, has been a source of employment for thousands of young adults. Over its 43 years of operation, it has attracted countless customers to our restaurant and club and has also served as a hub for guests who shopped before and after their visit. Its closure has left a void in the community, a testament to its importance.

We entertained every Michigan governor and the President of the United States, and during the summers, the Battle Alley in front of the Hotel was filled with diners, music, and weddings. We were vibrant, proud, and confident that we put our best foot forward. We created a destination for many people who would never have ventured to Holly, Michigan.

Hearing them recount stories of busy nights, Christmas, Morel season, Mother's Day, and all the details we put into events, menu planning, farmers markets, and that symphony of efforts we made music with every day was heartbreaking.

While we currently face a finite disappointment in not being able to reopen the business, we must never lose sight of the infinite hope that we will all be back together again, serving our guests at the Holly Hotel. We are committed to finding a way to reopen and continue our legacy of excellence.

Always,

George and Chrissy