River Club Glen Arbor targets June opening, seeks workers

From staff reports

River Club Glen Arbor, located where the Crystal River turns and heads northeast toward The Homestead and Sleeping Bear Bay, has announced its grand opening in mid-June. The project of former advertising executive and current Lake Leelanau resident Mike Sheldon, the River Club will offer Mexican-inspired foods, signature drinks from the Caddy Shack bar, riverfront and sky deck seating, a concert stage, a landscaped 18-hole mini-golf course and a gift shop.

The destination will bring even more action to the east side of Glen Arbor, where Crystal River Outfitters, the Cyclery, the M22 Store and Coastal already draw crowds. Less than a mile away, the renovated Mill has generated buzz since it opened this spring. Click here to read our original story from October 2023 featuring Sheldon and his plan for an 18-hole putting course on the Crystal River.

“We’re beyond excited to launch this new entertainment experience to the good people of northern Michigan. Our hope is that families and friends have as much fun enjoying the park as we’ve had building it” said Sheldon. “The Crystal River is a gem not everyone has daily access to. So now folks can have a front row seat to enjoy a good meal and their favorite drink all while watching the fish, birds and kayakers go by. Then for some friendly competition your group can play a custom designed Michigan-inspired mini-golf course. The nice thing about a putting course is it’s fun whether you’re seven or 97.

“We’re committed to providing locals and tourists with a relaxing day in the park. Our hope is that you, your parents, your kids and someday their kids, will develop fond memories at River Club” added Gina Sheldon.

“It’s hard to describe us in a sentence or two, there’s just so much going on. It’ll be like a party in someone’s really cool backyard” said business partner Chuck Damman.

The River Club is looking for happy and hard-working people to fill various positions. To mix things up a bit, RCGA is throwing a Job Fair/Party in the Park on Saturday, May 18, from 11 am – 3 pm. The event will provide an opportunity to meet the team, get an exclusive firsthand tour of the park and learn how the RCGA team works with and treats people. All attendees will get to play a few holes just for the fun of it.

The Club offers signing and incentive bonuses, great compensation, flexible scheduling, staff meals, discounts, and a party-like atmosphere for all employees. The following positions are needed: prep cooks (in a brand-new kitchen); food servers (who like to smile); bartenders (who smile because they make so much $); porters, bussers & dishwashers (who get to enjoy great music/fun people); gift shop representatives (who’ll sell really cool stuff).

For those unable to attend the Job Fair, applications can be filled out electronically by clicking here.

For more information, visit www.rcglenarbor.com.