Deb and Brian Cairns, owners of Sleder's Tavern in Traverse City, along with fellow Hickory Hills supporters will host a day-long fundraiser in support of an improvement plan for the recreation area on Sat., Aug. 29. The day will include a 5K/10K run, a pancake breakfast at Sleder's, an 18-hole golf tournament at Bay Meadows and a disc golf tournament at Hickory Hills. An awards ceremony for all events begins at 4pm, kicking off an evening party under the tent at Sleder's, complete with live music, food, beverages and raffles and a silent auction.

Proceeds from the event go toward a $1.5 million fundraising campaign. The Preserve Hickory community group has received a $1.5 million pledge from the City of Traverse City for the proposed improvements. Recruitment of teams, sponsors, silent auction items and volunteers is underway. Follow Preserve Hickory on Facebook for updates on the event and how to get involved.