35 minute read
Let the Meat and the Smoke Do the Talking
By Ashlee Cowles
From the outside, Willow Market & Meats in Cadillac—home to Primos BBQ— looks like one of the specialty grocery stores that are common in northern Michigan… but there’s a lot more going on here than you might think.
Willow Market owner Jason Towers first got into barbeque as a hobby. In 2017, he was working at a large dairy farm and opened a barbeque food truck as a side gig. Towers and his business partner hoped to cater an occasional event and maybe donate some of the proceeds to charities.
But it didn’t take long for the demand for barbeque to exceed what their “hobby food truck” could provide, and Towers and his partner decided to open a brick-and-mortar location on the west side of Cadillac in 2018. Although they started Primos because of a passion for smoking meat, opening a barbeque joint in Cadillac turned out to be a good business decision that filled a gap in the market.
“There’s not a lot of barbeque in northern Michigan north of Grand Rapids, at least in the style that we do,” Towers tells us. “People were really excited about being able to get brisket every day.”
The BBQ Brisket is definitely one of the most popular menu items at Primos. It’s also a signature dish of Texas-style barbeque, which tends to emphasize beef over the pork offerings that are popular in other regional barbeques, such as Carolina-style. Texas-style often incorporates a heavier, tomato-based sauce, but that’s actually one of the ways Primos BBQ does things a little differently.
“Our meat is not all sauced up,” says Towers. Primos prefers to keep it simple and pure, using two or three spices before smoking the meat. Afterward, customers can add sauce to their own liking. “We let the meat and the smoke do the talking.”
The pulled chicken is another stand-out dish that sometimes flies under the radar but happens to be Towers’ favorite. “It comes off good the way we smoke it. It’s not heavily smoked…it’s just really nice, flavorful, and tender chicken.”
A unique item on the menu is the Primos Parfait, made up of a choice of either pork or beef layered with two sides (slaw, smoked mac-n-cheese, baked beans, or smoked cheesy potatoes) and served in a parfait cup. You’ll also find classic BBQ staples like ribs, wings, and pulled pork, plus sampler and family meals that give you and yours a taste of the menu.
The Market
As the reputation of Primos BBQ grew, another opportunity presented itself in 2020. Willow Market became available, which meant a more central location closer to downtown. Towers and his partner decided to merge the two businesses and began offering Primos BBQ on-site at the market just one month before the COVID-19 lockdown.
Maybe that seems like bad luck, but in hindsight, the timing ended up working out well. Because of the market’s well-established deli, a good percentage of Willow’s business was already take-out, and Primos BBQ only added to the offerings customers could order to-go.
“We doubled down and tried to do whatever it took to get people fed,” says Towers. That meant delivering themselves and signing up for DoorDash as soon as the service became available in Cadillac. “We learned how to pivot, try new things, and keep moving forward,” he says.
Today, Towers says his goal with the deli side of Willow Market is to provide an alternative to chain restaurants and fast food by offering a healthy, high-quality menu with items that are handmade and locally sourced in Michigan whenever possible. “All the sandwiches are killer,” he says, though he acknowledges that at 10 or 11 bucks a pop, they’re not cheap. (That’s due to the use of fresh, quality ingredients, a spot where Towers won’t compromise.) “But it’s a good sandwich. It’s handmade when you order it.”
In addition to sandwiches, the deli menu includes salads, soups, wraps, stonebaked flatbread pizzas, all-day breakfast, and Wednesday pot pies. And for those who aren’t crazy about smoked meats, there are vegetarian options and a variety of dishes that can be prepared gluten-free.
The market consists of a small grocery with mostly Michigan-made products, as well as 400+ craft beers and 350+ wines to choose from. There’s also a growler filling station with twelve rotating taps. Part of the store has been transformed into a winetasting room with a private seating area and fireplace. Towers says he hopes the cozy space will allow wine enthusiasts to select bottles they can’t find anywhere else in Cadillac and try it right there in the store.
Recently, Chef Hermann—well-known in Cadillac as the former owner of Hermann’s European Cafe and Restaurant—came to Towers with a plan to collaborate. Now the respected chef and wine expert teaches customers about wine several nights a week.
The Greenhouse
But that’s not all, folks. The most recent addition to the business, The Greenhouse, began as a space to sell seasonal plants and has become a year-round gathering place for the Cadillac community. “People tell me they just feel comfortable out there. They love how it feels,” says Towers.
The idea for The Greenhouse was born during the pandemic, as Towers knew they needed to innovate by providing customers with an open, airy space that had good ventilation and allowed people to social distance easily. Towers envisioned the space having “a beer garden feel, with an indoor and outdoor dining area.”
The Greenhouse provides a versatile space with craft beers on tap and entertainment several nights each week. On Wednesdays, the venue hosts a trivia night, and there is live music on weekends, giving local musicians from Cadillac and beyond the opportunity to play for an audience.
“Musicians were calling me as soon as they found out,” says Towers. “It’s good to bring live music back to Cadillac.”
When The Greenhouse was transformed from a plant nursery to a one-of-a-kind event space in 2022, Willow Market & Meats became much more than a place to pick up a local Michigan brew—it became a celebration of community. In addition to local chess club meetings, karaoke nights, speed dating, and silent discos, the space has been rented out for events such birthdays, anniversaries, and even wedding receptions.
Towers once saw a couple get engaged in The Greenhouse, which brought up something he hadn’t anticipated when opening this part of the business: Because of the special life events that occur there, “this place will be important to people for the rest of their lives. There’s just a significance to that that I didn’t see coming.”
Find Primos BBQ, Willow Market & Meats, and The Greenhouse at 916 S. Mitchell St. in Cadillac. (231) 779-1575, willowmarket.com saturday
NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL: TC, July 1-8. Today includes the Meijer Festival of Races: 13.1M, 15K, 10K, 5K; Cherry Farm Market, Festival Open Space Park, Go For the Gold! Pin Program, Ultimate Air Dogs, Festival Finale Fireworks, DTE Energy Foundation Cherry Royale Parade, Jeff Foxworthy & Larry The Cable Guy, & much more. cherryfestival.org
SWEATY YETI RUN: 5K & 1 MILE FUN
RUN: 8am, 101 Maple St., East Jordan. $15, $35. sweatyyetirun.com
20TH ANNUAL BOYNE THUNDER POKER
RUN: Fun on the water with big rigs. Starts Fri., July 7 in downtown Boyne City from 6-9:30pm with Stroll the Streets, a street party with a collage of music, entertainment, dining, shopping, boat displays, & a car show. Check the web site for more info. boynethunder.com/events
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54TH ANNUAL CHARLEVOIX ART & CRAFT SHOW: 10am-6pm, East Park, Downtown Charlevoix. ----------------------
BABY’S BREATH WORKBEE AT ELBERTA BEACH: 10am-noon, Elberta Beach. Join ISN & the GT Regional Land Conservancy to remove invasive baby’s breath. Please bring work gloves. Long pants & close-toed shoes are recommended because there is poison ivy around the beach. Meet at the Elberta Beach parking lot. Free. habitatmatters.org/ babys-breath-workbees.html ----------------------
BLISSFEST FOLK & ROOTS FESTIVAL: 3695 Division Rd., Harbor Springs. July 7-9. This year’s lineup includes Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Colin Hay, Valerie June, Abigail Washburn, Marc Broussard, Lindsay Lou, The Moxie Strings, Seth Bernard, The Third Degree, The Vermeers & many others. There will also be a silent disco, buskers, drum & dance, folkscool, healing arts, craft show, kids area & activities, & more. blissfest.org
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CADILLAC FREEDOM FESTIVAL: The Cadillac Commons, July 4-8. Today includes the Classic Car Show, Cornhole Tournament, live music by HoneyBadger, North 44, & Claim Jumpers, Pork in the Park BBQ Competition, fireworks & more. cadillacmichigan.com/cadillac-freedom-festival
FRIENDS OF THE LELAND TOWNSHIP
LIBRARY USED BOOK, PUZZLE & GAME
SALE: 10am-2pm, Leland Township Library, Munnecke Room, Leland. lelandlibrary.org
GUIDED BIRDWATCHING HIKE: 1011:30am, Michigan Legacy Art Park, Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. Join Executive Director & birding guide Angie Quinn on this hike to hear a variety of Michigan birds. Meet at the trailhead at 10am. Free with Art Park admission. michlegacyartpark.org/toursworkshops/birdwatching-series
HAPPY DAYS ART & CRAFT SHOW: 10am-5pm, Depot Park, Alden. daniellesblueribbonevents.com
MORNING MEDITATION & SOUND BATH: 10am, The Alluvion, 2nd floor, TC. With artists Ahavani Mullen & Kevin Summers. $10 suggested donation. tusentakk.org/exhibitions-events/morning-meditation-sound-bath
OPEN STUDIO, PETOSKEY: 10am-1pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Visual Arts Room, Petoskey. Drop-in, free arts & crafts for the whole family. crookedtree.org/event/ctacpetoskey/open-studio-july-8-0
THE 25TH ANNUAL ARTISTS’ MARKET: 10am-4pm, Old Art Building, Leland. Offering more than 70 booths of original work from artists & makers around the Midwest. Gourmet food, kid’s booths & more. Free. oldartbuilding. com/events/artists-market-2023
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TRAVERSE CITY SHOP & SIP: 11am-5pm, Jacob’s Farm, TC. A diverse range of handmade crafts & artwork from artisans from around the region. $10 Early Bird (11am-noon); $5 GA (noon-5pm). traversecityshopandsip.com
GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL
I: Flintfields Horse Park, Williamsburg, July 5-9. Gates open at noon. CSI 3*, USHJA National Hunter Derby, Premier Hunter / Jumper 6 / Equitation. GA, $15. traversecityhorseshows.com/events
OPENING RECEPTION FOR CTAC, TC JULY
EXHIBITS: 5-6:30pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, TC. Celebrate the opening of “New Work by Royce Deans and Angela Saxon” in West Carnegie Gallery; “Reflections Between Conversations: Rufus Snoddy and Glenn Wolff” in East Carnegie Gallery; & “Paint Grand Traverse” - extended exhibit in Rotunda Gallery. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traverse-city/opening-reception-traverse-city-july-exhibits
MAJOR MURPHY & BREATHE OWL
BREATHE: 5:30pm, Mayfield Pond Park. An evening of live contemporary indie music with Grand Rapids-based band, Major Murphy, & folk phenomenon, Breathe Owl Breathe. Bring chairs & blankets. 231-2635484. Free. tadl.org/event/major-murphybreathe-owl-breathe-mayfield-pond-park
CONCERT IN THE PARK FEATURING THE FABULOUS HORNDOGS & THE BURDICKVILLE BOYS: 6-9pm, Old Settlers Park, Glen Lake. Presented by the Glen Lake Church Men’s Group. Benefits the Empire Community Emergency Fund & Leelanau HelpLink. Free will offering. thefabuloushorndogs.net
PERIL: 7pm, Northern Exposure Campground, Mesick.
“JULIUS CAESAR,” INTERLOCHEN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: 8pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Upton-Morley Pavilion. Starring Interlochen alumni Sydney James Harcourt (Broadway’s “Hamilton”) & James Ginty (“K-19: The Widowmaker”). $39. interlochen.org/events/julius-caesar-interlochenshakespeare-festival-2023-06-30
BLACKBERRY SMOKE: 8-10:30pm, Little River Casino Resort, Manistee. This band has always embodied Georgia’s rich musical legacy, honoring the people, places & sounds of their home state. $50, $60, $65. lrcr.com/ event/blackberry-smoke
DAVID KWONG: INSIDE THE BOX: AN EVENING OF PUZZLES: 8pm, Bay View Association, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. Kwong has created crossword puzzles for the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal & the Los Angeles Times. His show “Inside the Box” garnered a Critic’s Pick from the New York Times. Tickets start at $20. bva. booktix.net/view/42/97f21144a3ee0faa
MUSIC IN MACKINAW: ROSE CITY TROUBADOURS: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Roth Performance Shell, Mackinaw City. Americana, folk, rockabilly.
sUNDAY
54TH ANNUAL CHARLEVOIX ART & CRAFT SHOW: 10am-4pm, East Park, Downtown Charlevoix.
july
BLISSFEST FOLK & ROOTS FESTIVAL: (See Sat., July 8)
HAPPY DAYS ART & CRAFT SHOW: (See Sat., July 8)
THE SOUTH ARM CLASSICS: 10am-3pm, Spring St. & Memorial Park, East Jordan. Classic boats, classic cars, vendors & a beer tent. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072204164428
GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL
I: (See Sat., July 8)
SUNDAY MUSIC IN THE PARK: LITTLE BAY LIVE! (GREAT LAKES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA): 4-6pm, Marina Park, Harbor Springs.
THE BENZIE AREA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS NORTHPORT BAROQUE: 4pm, Northport Performing Arts Center. Featuring Conductor Tom Riccobono & Jim Bekkering & Ken Larson on trumpets. benziesymphony.com/performances
WORLD YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: CRISTIAN MĂCELARU, CONDUCTOR: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. Join the World Youth Symphony Orchestra & Grammy Award-nominated guest violinist Philippe Quint for an evening of classical music. $26 adult; $19 child through college. interlochen. org/events/world-youth-symphony-orchestra-cristian-macelaru-conductor-2023-07-09 send july 10
Monday
SUMMER SIZZLES COOKING CLASS: 3:30-5pm, Interlochen Public Library. Featuring grilling techniques & fresh summer produce. Travel the world with chef Susanne while making a healthy new recipe each month paired with signature mocktails. Classes are limited to 10 people. Must register: 231-276-6767.
G.T. HUMANISTS MEETING: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: 6pm, Traverse Area Dis- trict Library, TC. Join the Grand Traverse Humanists as they welcome Eric Bravick for a talk called “AI: Powering Humanity’s Potential.” Eric is currently the CEO of The Lifted Initiative, where he is leading a team that is building the next generation of AI enabled Internet infrastructure. Free. gthumanists.org
THE JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE: THE FIRST EXCITING SCIENCE RESULTS: 6-8pm, State Theatre, TC. Enjoy a public presentation by two internationally renowned astrophysicists: Dr. Ewine van Dishoeck (Leiden University) & Dr. Jonathan Gardner (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center). They will provide a night of science detailing the first exciting science results from the James Webb Space Telescope. Free. stateandbijou.org
FREE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES - JAMMIN’ MONDAYS ON BETSIE BAY: 7-9:15pm, Waterfront Park Amphitheater, Elberta. Enjoy blues & rock classics with an edge with Howard Wilson & the Salt City All Stars.
TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KENOSHA KINGFISH: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague.com/traverse-city-pitspitters/schedule ----------------------
CLASSICAL CONCERT WITH REPERIO: 7:30pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort. Featuring the resident woodwind faculty of the Interlochen Center for the Arts including Nancy Stagnitta, flute, & Dane Philipsen, oboe, & with Ya-Ju Chuang, piano. $15. gardentheater.org/upcoming-events
Tuesday
GAYLORD ALPENFEST: Gaylord, July 11-15. Live music, carnival, art tent, car show, Fun Run, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Doppellauf (Half Marathon + 5K), & much more. gaylordalpenfest.com
OUTDOOR STORY TIME: 10:30am, Suttons Bay Bingham District Library. Please bring a blanket for your family to sit on. Geared towards children pre-K to grade 2 & their caregivers. Free. sbbdl.org
PARKINSON’S NETWORK NORTH: 1pm, The Presbyterian Church of TC, 701 Westminster Rd. Topic: “Your best day with Parkinson’s.” Questions & answers. Split session. Socialization, important for Parkinsonians & their Care partners. Info: 947-7389. Free. pnntc.org
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EAST JORDAN JAM: 6-9pm, American Legion Post #227, East Jordan. Held every Tues. Play, sing, or just listen. Free.
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TCNEWTECH PITCH & NETWORKING
EVENT: City Opera House, TC. Select startups will be allowed 5 minutes to present their pitch & 5 minutes of questions & answers from the audience. The audience is made up of technology-minded people. Cash bar & networking at 5:30pm; investor pitches at 6pm; winners announced at 7pm. tcnewtech.org
“LIGHTHEADED: A GORDON LIGHTFOOT STATE OF MIND”: 7pm, State Theatre, TC. This film celebrates & chronicles Gordon Lightfoot’s career by taking viewers on a journey into the lives of his devoted fans, affectionately known as Lightheads. Free. stateandbijou.org
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GRIEVING A SUICIDE LOSS: 7pm, Bay View Association, Voorhies Hall, Petoskey. A presentation on grieving & healing after a loss to suicide by Barb Smith of the Suicide Resource & Response Network. Free. bayviewcampusclub.org
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TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KENOSHA KINGFISH: (See Mon., July 10)
INTERLOCHEN “COLLAGE”: 7:30pm, In- terlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. Experience the talents of Interlochen Arts Camp’s artists in this performance. “Collage” unites students & faculty of all ages & artforms in a multidisciplinary showcase including music, theatre & dance performances; creative writing readings; film screenings; live drawing & painting; & more. $34 adult; $19 child through college. interlochen. org/events/interlochen-collage-2023-07-11
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NMC CONCERT BAND PRESENTS
SUMMER ‘23 FREE CONCERT SERIES: 7:30pm, TC Civic Center Amphitheater. With Patricia Brumbaugh, conductor. Arrive early for a seat or bring a chair.
SUMMER YOGA SERIES: 7:30pm, Vans Beach, Leland. With local yoga instructor Kat Palms. Bring your towel & water bottle. All donations support the Leelanau Conservancy’s Water Quality Program. Suggested donation: $20.
MUSIC IN MACKINAW: STRAITS AREA
CONCERT BAND: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Roth Performance Shell, Mackinaw City. Enjoy patriotic, popular & Broadway show tunes. Bring lawn chairs. Free.
TUESDAY NIGHT MOVIES IN THE PARK: 10:30pm, Zorn Park, Harbor Springs. Featuring “The Greatest Showman.” Starts at dusk.
Wednesday
THRIVE 45º YOUNG PROFESSIONALS MORNING
MEET-UP: 7-10am, New Coworking space, 417 Howard St., Petoskey. Enjoy coffee & donuts while connecting with other young professionals. facebook.com/ events/2583391331801834
GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL
II: Flintfields Horse Park, Williamsburg, July 12-16. CS 3*, World Championship Hunter Rider, USHJA National Hunter Derby, Premier Hunter/Jumper 6/Equitation. traversecityhorseshows.com/events
BABY’S BREATH WORKBEE AT ELBERTA BEACH: 10am-noon, Elberta Beach. Join ISN & the GT Regional Land Conservancy to remove invasive baby’s breath. Please bring work gloves. Long pants & close-toed shoes are recommended because there is poison ivy around the beach. Meet at the Elberta Beach parking lot. Free. habitatmatters.org/ babys-breath-workbees.html
GAYLORD ALPENFEST: (See Tues., July 11) ----------------------
SUMMER NATURE PROGRAM: LEAF IMPRINTED CLAY: 10:30am, Old City Park, Boyne City. Geared toward ages 3-6, but all ages welcome. Listen to the story “Red Leaf Yellow Leaf” to learn about photosynthesis & the role of roots in a tree. Then explore the park to collect fallen leaves for imprinting into clay & create your own necklace or bracelet. Free. business.charlevoix.org/ events/details/summer-nature-program-leafimprinted-clay-14522
SUMMER READING PROGRAM WITH KEVIN DIVINE: 10:30am, Interlochen Public Library. Kevin is an award-winning children’s musical entertainer, songwriter & recording artist specializing in participatory concerts for children & families of all ages, full of upbeat sing-alongs & dancing. 231-276-6767. Free.
BASKETRY WITH DOROTHY WALTER:
1-4pm, Helena Township Community Center, Alden. 231-331-6583. $5.
DART FOR ART: PREVIEW NIGHT: 6-9pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Petoskey. Enjoy strolling heavy appetizers, drinks, live music, & a silent auction as you mingle with artists to preview the Dart for Art gallery. $100. crookedtree.org/dart2023
ELLSWORTH CONCERTS ON THE SQUARE: 7pm, Ellsworth Community Square, next to Banks Township Hall. Enjoy rock cover band Strings Attached. Bring a chair or blanket.
TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KOKOMO JACKRABBITS: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague.com/traverse-citypit-spitters/schedule
STYX: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. The pioneers of the power ballad cemented their place in rock & roll history in the 1970s as the first group to score four consecutive multi-platinum albums, topping the charts with Grand Illusion, Pieces of Eight, Cornerstone, & Paradise Theatre. Enjoy hits like “Renegade” & “Too Much Time on My Hands.” $45-$75. interlochen.org/events/styx-2023-07-12
Thursday
NMCAA’S LAUNDRY PROJECT: 6-9am, Eastfield Laundry, TC. Free laundry service for those in need. 947-3780.
GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL II: (See Weds., July 12)
GAYLORD ALPENFEST: (See Tues., July 11)
SUMMER READING EVENT WITH CHEF BRUCE: 10:30am, North Park Pavilion, Suttons Bay. This week’s theme is All Together Now with FOOD! Learn how food connects us all. For all kids, preschool through 8th grade. Free. sbbdl.org
KIDS CAN COOK COOKING CLASS: 11am-12:30pm, Interlochen Public Library. For ages 5-12. Learn about good nutrition, what’s in season, planning & preparing meals, & reading food labels. Must register: 231-276-6767. Free.
TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KOKOMO JACKRABBITS: 11:05am, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague.com/traverse-city-pitspitters/schedule ----------------------
PARKINSON’S NETWORK NORTH SUPPORT GROUP: 1pm, The Leelanau County Government Center, Suttons Bay. “Socilization is important for Parkinsonians and Their Care-partners.” Bring your questions & concerns. Info: 947-7389. Free. pnntc.org ----------------------
ARTIST’S OPENING RECEPTION: 5-7pm, Commongrounds, TC. For new exhibitions by Tusen Takk Artist-in-Residence Hong Hong alongside Dana Falconberry, Kayla Powers, & Alyssa Smith. Free. tusentakk. org/exhibitions-events/hong-hong-opening
CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF ARTS PAINT
OUT! QUICK DRAW: 5-7pm, downtown Charlevoix. Artists are challenged to create a work of art in the 2-hour timeframe, from the perspective of their choice in East Park or the adjacent Marina area. People’s Choice Award voting will take place from 7-9pm for cash award. charlevoixcircle.org/paint-out
DART FOR ART: MAIN EVENT: 6-10pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Petoskey. ONLINE SALES HAVE CLOSED FOR THE MAIN EVENT. Call 231-347-4337 to check availability or join the waitlist. Cocktail hour with appetizers by featured chefs, top-shelf bar, gourmet dinner by Chef Eric Basta of NOMAD, silent & live auctions, entertainment, & “darting” for your choice of artwork to take home from the Dart Gallery (at no extra charge). crookedtree.org/dart2023
DIET CULTURE DROPOUT CLUB: 6-7:30pm, Higher Grounds Coffee, GT Commons, TC. Join for community building, laughter, venting & zero diet talk! Enjoy a safe space for people in all bodies to connect as you actively deconstruct & unlearn the pervasive messages of diet culture. Free. headandhearttc.com/events-1/2023/4/12/ diet-culture-drop-out-club ----------------------
SUMMER FUN SERIES WITH MARVEL ILLUSTRATOR JERRY DECAIRE: 6pm, Interlochen Public Library. Art & fantasy will be created in this live drawing demo. Characters illustrated include Thor, X-Men, Wolverine, Conan, Punisher, Iron Man, Nick Fury, The Phantom & more. 231-276-6767. Free.
HARBOR SPRINGS STREET MUSIQUE: SOUNDS OF EMMET CO.: 6:30-8:30pm, Downtown Harbor Springs. Featuring Shouting Bones, Two Track Mind, Kevin Johnson, Lee Ann Whitman, & face painting.
“A MAN, A PLAN, A CANAL, A BEACH, A PANORAMA - A SAUNTERER’S VIEW OF CRYSTAL LAKE”: 7pm, The Mills Community House, Benzonia. Presented by Dr. Stacy Daniels. Donation; $5 suggested. benziemuseum.org
BOOK SIGNING WITH KAREN DIONNE: 7pm, McLean & Eakin Booksellers,
Petoskey. Karen is the author of “ The Marsh King’s Daughter” & “The Wicked Sister.” She will be sharing some of her favorite books as well as what it was like to have “The Marsh King’s Daughter” made into a movie. RSVP required. Free. mcleanandeakin.com/event/ karen-dionne-store-event
CONCERTS ON THE LAWN: MIRIAM PICO: 7pm, GT Pavilions, Grand Lawn, TC. This singer/songwriter performs her unique blend of folk, jazz & pop. She will be joined by Ryan Younce on lead guitar, Al Jankowski on keys & saxophone, Will Harris on drums, & Andy Evans on upright bass. Free. gtpavilions.org/events/concerts-on-the-lawn-21
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LAKE CITY MUSIC IN THE PARK: 7-9pm, 115 E. John St., Lake City. Featuring the Cambio Band.
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THE SOUND GARDEN PROJECT: BLUE QUARTET: 7pm, Black Star Farms, Suttons Bay. Free. interlochenpublicradio.org/thesound-garden-project
UPBEAT CADILLAC MUSIC SERIES: HOWARD WILSON & THE SALT CITY ALLSTARS: 7-9:15pm, 100 S. Lake St., Cadillac
TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KOKOMO JACKRABBITS: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague.com/traverse-city-pitspitters/schedule juLY 14
Friday
GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL II: (See Weds., July 12)
GAYLORD ALPENFEST: (See Tues., July 11)
NIGHT AT THE NATURE CENTER: 5-7pm, Boardman River Nature Center, TC. Afterhours fun where you will discover the world around you through indoor & outdoor activities. $5. natureiscalling.org/events
GUIDED FOREST HIKE: 10am, Ruby Ellen Farm, TC. Walk with District Forester Ellie Johnson to learn about the ecology, management & health concerns for northern mesic hardwood forests. Free. leelanaucd.org
SHAY DAYS: Shay Park, Harbor Springs. Today includes live model steam trains, crafts & games, electric trains, Lumber Camp Story Time, & “In Shay’s Day” Walking Tours. Donation. harborspringshistory.org/events/?acti on=evrplusegister&event_id=85
AFTER-HOURS GALLERY VISIT: 5-8pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center. glenarborart.org
CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF ARTS’ PAINT OUT RECEPTION & SUMMER SALON
OPEN HOUSE: 5-7pm, Charlevoix Circle of Arts. Enjoy light fare, mingle with artists, & view & purchase artwork on display in the Summer Salon & created during the 2-day Paint Out. charlevoixcircle.org/paint-out
REFLECTIONS OF A NOMI SUMMER: 5-8pm, Tinker Studio TC. Join for the third Artist Reception of the 2023 Summer Season. Enjoy an artist demonstration by local painter & 2023 Paint Grand Traverse participant, Lori Feldpausch, while you mingle with fellow artists. Free. Find on Facebook.
OPENING CELEBRATION FOR “GREAT
BODIES”: 6-8pm, Higher Art Gallery, TC. This group exhibit with 32 artists, “Great Bodies,” celebrates the life giving, fresh bodies of water throughout Michigan. Enjoy the Opening Celebration tonight while browsing
COMING
Presents
Summer 2023
& meeting the artists. Exhibit runs through Aug. 5. higherartgallery.com ----------------------
FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC IN THE PARK: 6:308:30pm, Marina Park, Harbor Springs. Live music by Peter Allen Jensen.
EAST JORDAN MUSIC IN THE PARK: 7-9pm, Memorial Park Bandshell, East Jordan. Enjoy rock & blues with Levitator.
SOUNDS OF SUMMER - DOWNTOWN PETOSKEY: 7-8:30pm, Pennsylvania Park, Petoskey. Featuring Tim Jones & Stonefolk. Bring a blanket or chair. Free.
SUMMER SOUNDS CONCERT: SETH BERNARD & JORDAN HAMILTON: 7-9pm, Michigan Legacy Art Park, Amphitheater, Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. $15 advance; $20 door; free for ages 12 & under. crystalmountain.com/event/summer-sounds-july/1
Bay Harbor. In this musical revue created for the Center, hear favorites from Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sunset Boulevard, & more. Tickets range from $57 - $112. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/musicof-the-night ----------------------
COUNTRY CONCERT SERIES: LUCAS HOGE: 9pm, Odawa Casino Resort, Victories, Petoskey. Doors open at 7pm. $10. odawacasino.com/entertainment
MOVIES IN THE PARK AT DARK: 9-11pm, Pennsylvania Park, Petoskey. Featuring “Holes.” Free.
JULY 21
JULY 23
TC SACRED DRUM CIRCLE: 7pm, House of Bear, 4242 Co. Rd 633, Grawn. Held the 2nd Fri. of the months (through Oct.). No experience necessary. No drum necessary, but feel free to bring an acoustic item of your own making. Dress for outside. Children must stay with adults. 231-383-0803. Free. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065646933215
SALVATION ARMY FUNDRAISER NIGHT
JULY 24
SUMMER
AUG. 10
World Youth Symphony Orchestra
A multidiciplinary showcase (LIMITED TICKETS)
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder
Detroit Symphony Orchestra
Five for Fighting
Donny Osmond
The Temptations & The Four Tops
High School Musical Production
Dark Star Orchestra - Grateful Dead Tribute
AUG. 10 Train (LIMITED TICKETS)
AUG. 11 Lindsey Stirling (LIMITED TICKETS)
AUG. 17 The Lone Bellow Trio with Drew Hale
AUG. 18 The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA
AUG. 19 The Beach Boys
SEPT. 1 Brandi Carlile (SOLD OUT) july 15
AT TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KOKOMO JACKRABBITS: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. The Salvation Army Traverse City will be the fundraising partner during the TC Pit Spitters Fireworks & Reverse Night. $3 of each ticket sold when using code TSATC on box seat tickets online will be donated to feed hungry neighbors. traverse-city-pit-spitters. nwltickets.com/SingleGame/Tickets/SelectSeats/5707. Donations of non-perishable food items will also be accepted at the main gate. Receive a free Salvation Army souvenir stadium cup with a food donation while supplies last. $14. centralusa.salvationarmy.org/traversecity/events/traverse-city-pit-spitters-andthe-salvation-army-partner-to-reverse-hunger
THE GAMBLER RETURNS: THE ULTIMATE KENNY ROGERS TRIBUTE SHOW: 7:30pm, Ramsdell Theatre, Manistee. $10$50. ramsdelltheatre.org/events
THE JORDAN VALLEY COMMUNITY BAND: 7:30pm, Memorial Park Bandshell, East Jordan.
“BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”: 8pm, Bay View Association, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. The story of an unkind prince who has been magically transformed into an unsightly creature as punishment for his selfish ways. bva.booktix.net/view/46/ b51bb4f82afeeb94
KINDNESS WINS COMEDY + MAGIC TOUR FEATURING “THE ILLUSIONIST” TOM COVERLY: 8pm, City Opera House, TC. Known as the adlib king, Tom’s show is best described as a comedy show, with a handful of magic tricks. He has entertained celebrities such as Paula Abdul, Duck Dynasty, C.S.I. NY, Alex Mapa (Ugly Betty) & the entire cast of the “Batman vs. Superman” movie. Tom is donating 100% of the proceeds to his non-profit to help stop bullying across America. $15-$40. cityoperahouse.org/node/499
MUSIC IN MACKINAW: NORTHERN MICHIGAN BRASS BAND MARCHES, SHOW TUNES, POP: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Roth Performance Shell, Mackinaw City. Bring lawn chairs. Free.
MUSIC OF THE NIGHT - A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER: 8pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts,
Saturday
TRIWALLOON: FULL: 7:30am, Walloon Lake. Offering a sprint distance triathlon, duathlon, & aquabike. For more info & to get on the wait list, visit web site. triwalloon.com
BEAR RIVER CRAWL 5K: Bayfront Park, Petoskey. 5K Run, 8am; 5K walkers with strollers & dogs, 8:10am. $25 before July 7; $30 July 8-14; $40 day of race. nmsportsmed. com/events/bear-river-crawl-5k-10k-run
FRIENDS OF FISHTOWN 5K: 9am, Fishtown, 201 W. River St., Leland. $40; $45 virtual. runsignup.com/Race/MI/Leland/ Fishtown5K?aflt_token=vkmwDmweQ4iCYn 8otSOOnKQ3vCO8buOw
GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL II: (See Weds., July 12)
PLATTE RIVER CLEAN SWEEP: 9am-2pm, Veterans Park, Honor. Become a Benzie River Steward at this 15th annual volunteer river cleanup. The event begins at Veterans Park at 9am for check-in. Registration required. Email info@benziecd.org or call 231-8824391. Participants should bring a boat, life jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen & water. Picnic lunch immediately following. benziecd. org/home/platte-river-clean-sweep-2023
“FORM AND FEATURE” OPENING RECEPTION: 10am-5pm, Tamarack Gallery, Omena. See the new exhibit “Form & Feature,” a show of landscape paintings by Amy Falstrom & new ceramics by Laurie Shaman. Both artists will be onsite to discuss their artwork & answer questions. Free. tamarackartgallery.com/exhibitions ----------------------
37TH ANNUAL PETOSKEY ART IN THE PARK: 10am-5pm, Pennsylvania Park, Petoskey. Featuring more than 100 booths with items ranging from pottery to jewelry, from paintings to photographs, & much more. ----------------------
ELK RAPIDS ARTS & CRAFT SHOW: 10am, River St., Downtown Elk Rapids. More than 60 artisans & crafters displaying & selling their work. Pet-friendly, family-friendly. elkrapidschamber.org/arts-crafts-show ----------------------
GAYLORD ALPENFEST: (See Tues., July 11)
MIDSUMMER ART & CRAFT SHOW: 10am-5pm, Gypsy Farms, Petoskey. Fine art & craft show with live music & an outdoor cocktail garden.
NORTHERN MICHIGAN CREATIVE CRAFTERS CRAFT SHOW: 10am-3pm, GT County Civic Center, Howe Arena, TC. Presented by Armstrong Acre Creative Design LLC. Featuring a wide range of mediums, including paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, textiles, woodworking, & more. For more info, email: armstrongacrecd@gmail.com. Free.
SHAY DAYS: Shay Park, Harbor Springs. Today includes live model steam trains, crafts & games, electric trains, Log Hewing Demonstration, & “In Shay’s Day” Walking Tours. Donation. harborspringshistory.org/events/? action=evrplusegister&event_id=85
CHARLEVOIX VENETIAN FESTIVAL: Charlevoix, July 15-22. Today includes Aquapalooza with live music by Lazo & Exodus, “Cornetian” Corn Toss, & volleyball. venetianfestival.com
THE NEED FOR TREES: 1pm, Platte Plains Trail-Bass Lake Trailhead, Sleeping Bear Dunes Trail Head, Honor. Join Anishinaabe historian Eric Hemenway for a stroll to find out the Anishinaabe connection to trees. Free. nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details. htm?id=4E8463D5-D9AD-6C71-8D23C5BE7AF4545B
SUMMER BLUES FEST: 3pm, Shady Lane Cellars, Suttons Bay. Food trucks, music & wine. The blues lineup will feature Keith Scott Blues from 3-6pm & Crosscut Kings from 6:30-9:30pm. $15/person. shadylanecellars. com/event-home/events
BENZIE BEE GUILD: APITHERAPY: 6pm, Grow Benzie Bee Yard, Benzonia. Join the Benzie Bee Guild to learn about healing ways from bees. Hosted by longtime beekeeper Sharon Jones of Sleeping Bear Farm. Free. growbenzie.org/events-calendar/event-one85gaw-ptjse-w6nmc-m7ngj-ex55w-87pbhj4fn5-5em43-9slt4-c3jhp-e34ma-2s74r
“GET BACK WITH SWITCHBACK”: 7pm, Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall, Elk Rapids. Performed by Brian FitzGerald & Martin McCormack. Door opens at 6pm. $20 advance; $25 door.
THE TIME BEFORE EUROPEANS & AMERICANS ON TURTLE ISLAND: 7pm, DH Day Campground Amphitheater, Glen Arbor. This talk will be presented by Anishinaabe historian Eric Hemenway. Free with a valid park entrance pass. nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=DF7AB964DCB7-3A74-ED58AA874EFBC75C
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BENZIE COMMUNITY CHORUS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: 7:30pm, The Mills Community House, Theatre, Benzonia. $20 per person. benziechorus.org
“BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”: (See Fri., July 14)
MUSIC IN MACKINAW: STEEL & WOODBLUEGRASS: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Roth Performance Shell, Mackinaw City. Bring lawn chairs. Free.
MUSIC OF THE NIGHT - A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER: (See Fri., July 14)
Sunday
36TH ANNUAL RIDE AROUND TORCH: 8am, Elk Rapids Cherryland Middle School. Presented by the Cherry Capital Cycling Club. A 26, 40, 63, or 100 mile bicycle tour primarily along the scenic shores of Torch Lake. This is a recreational social tour. Ride fees range from $40-$75. cherrycapitalcyclingclub. org/content.aspx?club_id=87045&module_ id=461732&page_id=22
CHARLEVOIX VENETIAN FESTIVAL: Charlevoix, July 15-22. Today includes
Beach Bash Basketball, Disc Golf Doubles, & “Worship on the Water” with Stephen Stanley. venetianfestival.com
GREAT LAKES EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL
II: (See Weds., July 12)
MIDSUMMER ART & CRAFT SHOW: (See Sat., July 15)
$145,100 CSI3* GRAND PRIX: 2pm, Flintfields Horse Park, Williamsburg. Olympic-caliber show jumping at the $145,100 Grand Prix. Equestrian performances, food & drink & Family-friendly activities. Event is dedicated to supporting Hospice of Michigan Foundation. open at noon. GA tickets, $15. eventbrite.com/e/145100-fei-3grand-prix-tickets-599190403627?aff=odcleoe ventsincollection
THE SACRED EARTH TRIBE PRESENTS
THE DANCES OF UNIVERSAL PEACE: 3:30pm, Llama Meadows Eco Farm, Benzonia. These dances blend chants with live music & simple movements into a living experience of unity, peace & joy. Love offering of $7-$10. facebook.com/thesacredearthtribe
SUNDAY MUSIC IN THE PARK: 4-6pm, Marina Park, Harbor Springs. Featuring the Rivertown Jazz Band.
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: THE SLEEPING GYPSIES: 7pm-10pm, Claude Shannon Park, Gaylord. Bring a chair.
BENZIE COMMUNITY CHORUS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: 7:30pm, The Mills Community House, Theatre, Benzonia. $20 per person. benziechorus.org
WORLD YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: ERINA YASHIMA, CONDUCTOR:
7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. Under Yashima’s baton, the ensemble will perform Florence Price’s Symphony No. 1 in E Minor and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “The Rock,” Op. 7. $26 adult; $19 child through college. interlochen.org/events/ world-youth-symphony-orchestra-erina-yashima-conductor-2023-07-16 ----------------------
VESPER: REAL-LIFE SOUNDTRACK: 8pm, Bay View Association, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. Enjoy familiar melodies & heartwarming stories. GA, $14.50. bva.booktix.net/view/33/42d741f33590bcd5
Ongoing
FREE CHILDREN’S DENTAL FAIR: Copper Ridge parking lot, TC. United Way of Northwest Michigan has partnered with Delta Dental to borrow a large dental bus & park it out front of their new building in Copper Ridge, TC to host a four-week long “pop-up clinic” to help alleviate some of the backlog of young children waiting to be seen by a dentist. Hours are Mondays, 9am-3pm & Tuesdays-Fridays, 8am-3pm from July 11 - Aug. 4. Services are provided on a walk-in basis only. unitedwaynwmi.org
HARBOR SPRINGS COMMUNITY BAND: Mondays, Harbor Springs waterfront, next to Pier Restaurant, 8pm. Free outdoor symphony band concerts.
JORDAN VALLEY COMMUNITY BAND: Thursdays, 7:30pm, Memorial Park Bandshell, East Jordan.
BICYCLE MUFFIN RIDE: Fridays, 9am1pm, Darrow Park, TC. Join the Cherry Capital Cycling Club for their weekly Muffin Ride from TC to Suttons Bay & back. The ride is 33 miles round-trip & includes a stop at a bakery or coffeehouse in Suttons Bay. cherrycapitalcyclingclub.org
BLOOMS & BIRDS: WILDFLOWER WALK: Tuesdays, 10am through Sept., Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. Go for a relaxing stroll on the trails with GRNA docents to find & identify the unique wildflowers at Grass River Natural Area. Along the way look & listen for the birds who call Grass River home. grassriver.org
GUIDED WALKING HISTORY TOURS OF TRAVERSE CITY: Tours are at 10am on Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays through Labor Day. They are about two miles long & take a little more than two hours. They begin at the Perry Hannah Plaza at the corner of 6th & Union St. near downtown. Groups of six or more can schedule tours at other times. walktchistory.com
DOUGHERTY MISSION HOUSE TOURS: Held Weds.-Sun., 10am-4pm, June 10 – Aug. 26. Docent led tours of the 1842 Rev. Dougherty Mission House, TC built by the Odawa & Chippewa with Chief Agosa. Explore the House, summer kitchen, carriage shed, icehouse, demonstration gardens & trail through the 15 acres. Visiting exhibit features the Inns of Old Mission. Discover where Old Mission Peninsula earned its name. doughertyoldmissionhouse.com
Art
JORDAN RIVER ARTS PRESENTS FARMER, FARMHERS & FARMS: Jordan River Arts Council, East Jordan. This exhibition celebrates local farms with works in a variety of media. Runs through Aug. 5. Regular gallery hours: 1-4pm, Thurs.-Mon. jordanriverarts.com/farmers-farmers-and-farms
“GREAT BODIES”: Higher Art Gallery, TC. Group exhibit - 32 artists - celebrating the life giving, fresh bodies of water throughout Michigan. Runs July 7 - Aug. 5. An opening reception will be held on July 14 from 6-8pm. higherartgallery.com
SUMMER SALON: Runs June 30 - Sept. 2 at Charlevoix Circle of Arts. 4th annual salonstyle exhibit showcasing regionally inspired work by local & area artists. An open house will be held on Fri., July 14 from 5-7pm with Paint Out Event Wet Paint Sale & Reception. Gallery is open Mon. through Fri., 11am4pm, & Sat., 11am-3pm or by appointment. charlevoixcircle.org/exhibits-2023
OLIVER ART CENTER PRESENTS SUMMER MEMBER SHOW: Oliver Art Center, Frankfort. Featuring a wide variety of work in all mediums. The show runs through July 28. Oliver Art Center is open Mon. - Sat., 10am4pm. oliverartcenterfrankfort.org
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PARTS OF THE PROCESS - SHANNY
BROOKE ART EXHIBIT: Twisted Fish Gallery, Cottage Gallery, Elk Rapids. Taking us on her emotional journey, painter Shanny Brooke explores the creative steps that emerge when processing the loss of a loved one. This selection of paintings is an intimate glimpse into Shanny’s journey of healing & insight. The exhibit runs through mid-July with viewings: Tues.-Sat., 10am-5pm. Free. twistedfishgallery.com/event/parts-of-the-process-openingreception-with-artist-shanny-brooke
“YOUTH INNOVATION IN RURAL AMERICA”: Raven Hill Discovery Center, East Jordan. Community-based youth design projects by local students. Runs through Oct. 7. miravenhill.org
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, PETOSKEY:
- MICHIGAN SUMMERS: WORKS BY JULIA
DUFAULT MCGRATH: Held in Atrium Gallery. Julia includes colorful & texture-filled watercolor & mixed-media paintings that capture the beauty of Michigan Summers. Runs June 17 - July 22. Hours are Tues. through Sat., 10am5pm. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/ michigan-summers-work-julia-dufault-mcgrath
- ANIMAL - VEGETABLE - MINERAL: PAINTINGS BY NANCY ADAMS NASH: Held in Bonfield Gallery. Enjoy new paintings from Nash, as well as select works from the past. Runs through Sept. 2. CTAC hours are Tues. - Sat., 10am-5pm. crookedtree.org/event/ctacpetoskey/animal-vegetable-mineral-paintingsnancy-adams-nash-opens-may-25
- TRISHA WITTY: PILGRIMAGES IN PAINT, A RETROSPECTIVE 1988 TO PRESENT: Runs through Sept. 2 in Gilbert Gallery. Retrospective exhibition highlighting Trish Witty’s paintings from the past 35 years. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/ trisha-witty-pilgrimages-paint-retrospective1988-present-opens-may-25 ----------------------
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, TC:
- GREAT LAKES PASTEL SOCIETY: 2023
MEMBERS JURIED EXHIBITION: Runs July 8 – Aug. 25 in the Cornwell Gallery. Featuring 65 works by 58 artists working throughout the Great Lakes region. Works were reviewed & selected by guest juror & judge of awards, Kathleen Newman. An opening reception & awards will be held on July 8 from 2-3:30pm. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traverse-city/ great-lakes-pastel-society-2023-membersjuried-exhibition-opens-july-8
- REFLECTIONS BETWEEN CONVERSATIONS: Held in Carnegie East Gallery. This exhibit is showcasing 2D & 3D artwork by Rufus Snoddy & Glenn Wolff, who are friends & teaching colleagues in the Art Department at NMC, & have often collaborated on public art. Runs July 8 - Aug. 5. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traversecity/reflections-between-conversations
- ROYCE DEANS & ANGELA SAXON: NEW MONOTYPES: Held in Carnegie West Gallery. Showcasing new work by artists & collaborators, Royce Deans & Angela Saxon. The prints celebrate the collaborative energy of the two local artists. Runs July 8 - Aug. 5. crookedtree. org/event/ctac-traverse-city/royce-deans-andangela-saxon-new-monotypes
DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC:
- A NEW PERSPECTIVE: LANDSCAPES
FROM THE DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER: Runs through Sept. 3. Hours are Tues.Sun., 11am-4pm. dennosmuseum.org
- JERRY’S MAP: This exhibition is comprised of over 4,000 individual eight by ten inch panels. Its execution, in acrylic, marker, colored pencil, ink, collage, & inkjet print on heavy paper, is dictated by the interplay between an elaborate set of rules & randomly generated instructions. Runs through Sept. 3. Hours are Tues. through Sun., 11am-4pm. dennosmuseum.org
- LUSTER: REALISM & HYPERREALISM IN CONTEMPORARY AUTOMOBILE & MOTORCYCLE PAINTING: Runs through Sept.
3. This is a traveling exhibition comprised of over 55 paintings by 15 leading photorealists & hyperrealists who specialize in automobiles & motorcycles as their primary subject of choice. Featuring dazzling paintings that encompass a broad range of vintage vehicles, recent classics, off-road vehicles, exotics & more. Hours are Tues. through Sun., 11am-4pm. dennosmuseum.org
GLEN ARBOR ARTS CENTER:
- “THE BIRDS ARE WATCHING”: Runs through Aug. 25 in the Lobby Gallery. Mixed media constructions by Jessica Kovan. glenarborart.org/events/exhibit-the-birdsare-watching
- 2023 MEMBERS CREATE: An exhibition of work by 49 GAAC members. Runs through Aug. 10 in the Main Gallery. glenarborart.org/ events/exhibit-2023-members-create
While the conventions of a play within a play or a film within a film are well known and explored, Wes Anderson’s delightful desert romp Asteroid City is neither, but instead, something new. A film within a play? A Greek tragedy within a government amusement park? An allegory within a slideshow?
Whatever else it may be, Asteroid City is a moving image marvel that will deliver all the feels for fans of Anderson’s offbeat storytelling style. (For those unfamiliar with his fairy-tale flare for patter and dialogue, short interstitial scenes, and supersaturated visuals, the film could feel impenetrable.)
Asteroid City begins and ends with a chorus of sorts and a voice-of-God narrator in Bryan Cranston, who brings a nostalgic Our Town colloquialism to his role guiding the exposition and narrative along. We learn quickly we are watching a production—a fantasy and perhaps the private inner world where the script’s writer and characters merge together. Edward Norton plays the playwright Conrad Earp, who is crafting this tale as it plays out in front of our eyes and who could possibly be Anderson or his screenwriting partner Roman Coppola’s alter ego if you’d like to go there.
The bizarro collection of characters centers around a soft-spoken war photographer Augie Steenbeck (played with quiet gusto by Jason Schwartzman), who arrives in Asteroid City due to car trouble only to be held there against his will. Complicating matters, the photographer who confronts death on a daily basis struggles to find a way to explain his wife’s recent passing to his young children.
The Steenbecks and others have all gathered in Asteroid City for the annual Junior Space Cadet convention, a science-meetsscouting event that pairs genius teenagers
100’ together with a government eager to tap into and exploit their discoveries. The convention features a central competition of ideas, eclipse watching, and the occasional thermo-nuclear blast safely in the distance. private
Anderson controls it all in a series of acts and scenes that give him the structure to quickly bounce around and explore all his fascinating storylines, of which there are many. As he has in the past, the director manages to find enough threads to tie everything together in the end and leave you haunted by a bittersweet experience of sorrow and joy.
The famous ensemble includes celebrity standout Jeffrey Wright as General Gibson, a five-star military man who delivers modern space directives to the convention audience with the same spirit and vigor as Pershing on the Western Front. Equally entrancing is Scarlett Johansson as the wayward starlet Midge Campbell, who develops intimate friendships with strangers using only her magnetic melancholy from across a window.
Adding to the fun are Tom Hanks as a wealthy snowbird; Tilda Swinton as an astronomer fascinated with the cosmos; Hope Davis and Liev Schreiber as guests of the resort dependably seen near the vending machines for cocktails and real estate; Steve Carell as the motel manager; and Matt Dillon as the dreaded mechanic who always has bad news for the stranded.
I refuse to reveal one of the film’s best surprises, except to say it involves actor Jeff Goldblum hidden in plain sight.
And finally, the rockabilly vintage soundtrack scores Asteroid City perfectly for a road trip through humanity so enticing, you won’t want to miss a mile of it.
Grand Traverse & Kalkaska
BONOBO WINERY, TC
PATIO, 6-8:
7/12 -- Jackie Pappas
7/14 -- DJ Ras Marco D
7/15 -- Chasing Denver
BRADY’S BAR, TC
6:30-9:30:
7/8 -- Timothy Michael Thayer
7/16 – Blair Miller
CHATEAU CHANTAL, TC PATIO:
Thu -- Jazz at Sunset w/ Jeff Haas
Trio w/ Laurie Sears & Watercolorist
Lisa Flahive, 7
DELAMAR, TC
7/7-8 -- 1Wave DJs, 2-9
ENCORE 201, TC
7/8 -- The Vinyl DJ Robbie Greco, 9
7/13 -- John Richard Paul, 8-10
7/14 -- DJ Ricky T, 9
7/15 -- Equality Show Band, 7; DJ
Ricky T, 10
JACOB’S FARM, TC
6-8:30:
7/8 – Austin Benzing
7/9 – Miriam Pico
7/12 – G-Snacks
7/13 – Jack Pine
7/14 – Earth Radio
7/16 – Ras Marco
KINGSLEY LOCAL BREWING
7/11 -- Open Mic, 6-8
LUMBEERYARD:
7/14 -- Elizabeth Landry, 7-9
LEFT FOOT CHARLEY, TC
BARREL ROOM:
7/10 -- Open Mic w/ Rob Coonrod, 6-9
TASTING ROOM, 5-7:
7/8 – Jigs & Reels
7/15 – Mountain Gloom & Mountain Glory
LIL BO, TC
Tues. – Trivia, 8-10
Weds. – Open Mic Night w/ Aldrich, 9-11
Sun. – Karaoke, 8
NORTH BAR TC
7/8 – Nick Vasquez, 1-4; Blake Elliott, 5-8
7/9 – Les Dalgliesh, 1-4; Brett Mitchell, 5-8
ROVE ESTATE VINEYARD & WINERY, TC
7/14 – Broom Closet Boys, 5:308:30
SORELLINA’S, TC
SLATE RESTAURANT:
Thurs. -- Tom Kaufmann on Piano,
5-8
Fri. & Sat. – Tom Kaufmann on Piano, 6-9
THE ALLUVION, TC
7/8 -- Ani & Kora + Dead North + Trillium Groove, 7-10
THE COIN SLOT, TC
7/8 -- Protea, 7
7/12 – BYOVinyl, 8
7/15 – Parking Lot Dance Party w/
Skin Kwon Doe, Zeb K, Waverunner & Mr. Markis, 7-11:30
THE LITTLE FLEET, TC
PATIO:
7/14 – Funky Uncle, 6:30-10
THE PARLOR, TC
7/11 – Jesse Jefferson, 8-11
7/12 – Wink, 8-11
7/13 – Jimmy Olson, 8-11
7/14 – Blue Footed Booby, 6-9; Rebekah Jon, 9-12
7/15 – Rolling Dirty, 6-9; Empire Highway, 9-12
THE PUB, TC
7/8 -- Kevin Paul, 4:30-7:30
7/9 -- Drew Hale, 4:30-7:30
7/12 – Tyler Roy, 8-11
7/13 – Steve Clark, 8-11
7/14 – John Pomeroy, 4:30-7:30
7/15 – Nick Vasquez, 4:30-7:30
7/16 – Drew Hale, 4:30-7:30
THE WORKSHOP BREWING CO., TC
7/11 -- Open Mic, 7-9
7/12 -- Jazz Show & Jam, 6
PATIO:
7/13 -- DJ Dance Party, 9-11
7/14 -- Ben Richey, 8-10
7/15 -- Jazz North, 8-10
THIRSTY FISH SPORTS GRILLE, TC PATIO, 6:30-9:30:
7/8 -- TC Guitar Guys
7/13 – TSP
7/14 – Snacks & Five
7/15 -- Styleguides
TOWNLINE CIDERWORKS, WILLIAMSBURG
7/14 -- Fiddlevine, 6
UNION STREET STATION, TC
7/8 -- The Brother James Band, 10
7/9 -- DJ 2 Straws, 10
7/10 -- Jukebox, 10
7/11 -- Open Mic Comedy, 8-9:30; then Karaoke 7/12 -- DJ Jr, 10
-- Red Elvises, 7
-- DJ Prim, 10
-- Cosmic Knot, 10
-- Skin Kwon Doe, 10
Leelanau & Benzie
45 NORTH VINEYARD & WINERY, LAKE LEELANAU
7/13 -- Rhett & John, 3-6
AURORA CELLARS, LAKE LEELANAU
7/9 -- Rhett & John, 3-5
BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU
TASTING ROOM LAWN:
7/9 -- Legal Rehab, 4:30-7
7/12 -- Larry Perkins, 5:30-8
7/14 -- The Good Time Gals, 5:30-8
7/16 -- Bryan Poirier, 4:30-7
BROOMSTACK KITCHEN & TAPHOUSE, MAPLE CITY
5:30-8:30:
7/11 -- Lars Cabot
7/12 -- Andre Villoch
7/13 -- Jim Hawley
CICCONE VINEYARD & WINERY, SUTTONS BAY
7/9 -- Jeff Socia, 2-4:30
7/13 -- Elizabeth Landry, 5-7:30
7/16 -- Loose Change, 2-4:30
CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN, THOMPSONVILLE BARR PARK, 6-8:
7/8 -- Blair Miller
7/9 -- Doc Probes
LEVEL4 LOUNGE, 8:30-10:30:
-- Nick Vasquez
-- Jim Hawley
-- Johnny P
-- Dominic Fortuna
FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARD, CEDAR
7/9 -- Sav Buist, 9
7/10 -- Legal Rehab, 4-7
7/13 -- Luke Woltanski & Dalton Sala, 4-7
FURNACE STREET DISTILLERY, ELBERTA
6-9:
7/8 -- Jerome Forde
7/9 -- Jason Locke
7/13 -- Matt Gabriel
7/14 -- Pinter Whitnick
7/15 -- Evan Kielty
7/16 -- Billy & The Kid
GOOD HARBOR VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU TASTING ROOM:
7/12 -- Rhett & John, noon-3
HOP LOT BREWING CO., SUTTONS BAY 5-8:
7/8 -- Jen Sygit
7/10 -- Jameson Bros
7/12 -- Blair Miller
7/13 -- I Am Hologram
7/14 -- Zak Bunce & Denny Richards
IRON FISH DISTILLERY, THOMPSONVILLE
7/8 – Haiven, Bella Wright & Lorrynne, 3:30-5:30; Lighting Matches, 6:30-
8:30
7/9 – Barefoot, 6-8
7/10 – Ethan Bott, 6-8
7/13 – Anna P.S., 6-8
7/14 – Frank Pfaff, 6-8
7/15 – Johnathan Fiene, 6-8
7/16 – Feral Cats, 6-8
LAKE ANN BREWING CO.
BIÉRE DE MAC BREW WORKS, MACKINAW CITY
7/9 -- Lara Fullford, 5
7/14 -- DJ Franck, 7
7/15 -- Owen James Quartet, 7
7/16 -- Mike Morter, 5
BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS, PETOSKEY
PATIO:
7/8 -- Chris Calleja, 2-6
7/14 -- Lou Thumser, 4-7:30
7/15 -- Michelle Chenard, 2-6
CHEBOYGAN BREWING
7/14 -- The Fridays, 5:30
CITY PARK GRILL, PETOSKEY
7/7-8 -- Huckleberry Groove, 9
7/14 -- Annex Karaoke, 9:30
CROOKED VINE VINEYARD & WINERY, ALANSON
7/8 -- John Piatek, 1-4
7/15 -- Pete Jackson, 2-5
DIXIE SALOON, MACKINAW CITY
7/7-8 & 7/14-15 – Pete Big Dog
Fetters, 8
DOUGLAS LAKE BAR, PELLSTON
6-9:
7/9 -- Nelson Olstrom
ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY, GAYLORD 7/14
ST. AMBROSE CELLARS, BEULAH
7/8 -- The Feral Cats, 1-4; Ethan Bott, 5:30-8:30
7/9 – Jabo, 3-6
7/10 – The Duges, 5:30-8:30
7/11 – Bill Frary, 5:30-8:30
7/13 – Wink, 5:30-8:30
7/14 – The Kettle Belles, 5:30-8:30
7/15 – Eric Nassau, 1-4; Troy Graham, 6-9
7/16 – Jabo, noon-3; Benzie Area Symphony Orchestra, 4-5
SHADY LANE CELLARS, SUTTONS BAY
7/14 -- Friday Night LIVE with Blair Miller, 5:30-8:30
STORMCLOUD BREWING CO., FRANKFORT
7/9 -- Cousin Curtiss, 5-8
7/13 -- Jacob & Olivia, 6-8
STREETSIDE GRILLE, SUTTONS BAY
7/16 -- DJ Trivia w/ Short’s Brewing Co., 4
SUTTONS BAY CIDERS
4:30-7:
7/9 – Billy and the Kid
7/16 – Brady Corcoran
THE HOMESTEAD RESORT, GLEN ARBOR WHISKERS, 6-9:
7/8 -- Rolling Dirty
7/12 -- Gary Hempsey
7/14 -- Billy & The Kid
7/15 -- Randy Reszka
THE UNION, NORTHPORT
7/16 – The Significant Others
GYPSY DISTILLERY, BAY HARBOR
7/8 -- Jelly Roll Blues Band, 7
INN AT BAY HARBOR
CABANA BAR, 3-6:
7/9 – Michelle Chenard
7/14 – David Lawston
7/16 – Sean Bielby
MAMMOTH DISTILLING, BAY HARBOR
7/12 – David Lawston, 7:30-10:30
7/13 – Jessica Dominic
7/14 – Bill Oeming
NOGGIN ROOM PUB, PETOSKEY
7:30-10:30:
7/8 -- Adam Hoppe
7/12 – Dogwood Rhythm
7/13 – Kyle Brown
7/14 – Sunny Bleau
7/15 – Adam Hoppe
NORTHLAND BREWING CO.,
INDIAN RIVER
BACKYARD:
7/8 -- Brian McCosky, 7
7/13 -- Dave Cisco, 6:30
7/14 -- Harmonized Steel, 7
Emmet & Cheboygan Otsego,
ODAWA CASINO RESORT, PETOSKEY
VICTORIES:
7/14 -- Country Concert Series: Lucas Hoge, 9, followed by DJ
POND HILL FARM, HARBOR SPRINGS
7/8 -- Ty Parkin, 4-8
7/9 -- Kate Hinote Trio, 2-5
7/12 – Kirby Snively, 6-8
7/15 – M-119 Band, 4-8
7/16 – Jackie Pappas, 2-5
RUDBECKIA WINERY/BURNT
MARSHMALLOW BREWSTILLERY, PETOSKEY
7/8 & 7/16 -- Peter Allen Jensen,
5-7
7/9 -- Lou Thumser, 2-4
7-13 – Open Mic/Vinyl Night, 6
7/14 – Mark Champion, 6-8
THE BEAU, CHEBOYGAN
8-11:
7/14 -- Brett Harfort
7/15 -- Flylite Gemini Duo
WALLOON LAKE WINERY, PETOSKEY
7/13 -- Wife Island, 6-8
DICK’S POUR HOUSE, LAKE LEELANAU Sat. -- Karaoke, 10-1
DUNE BIRD WINERY, NORTHPORT 3-6: 7/9 – Adam Dennis
7/16 – Luke Woltanski
FIVE SHORES BREWING, BEULAH
7/12 -- Open Mic Night w/ Andrew Littlefield, 7
7/14 -- Gabrial James, 6-9
BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM Sat,Thu -- Adam & The Cabana Boys, 7
BOYNE MOUNTAIN RESORT, BOYNE FALLS BEACH HOUSE DEER LAKE:
7/8 -- Nelson Olstrom, noon
BRIDGE STREET TAP ROOM, CHARLEVOIX Wed -- Chris Calleja & Adam Engelman, 6-9
FIRESIDE LOUNGE, BELLAIRE
6:30-9:30:
7/8 -- The Daydrinkers Series w/ Uncle Z, 3-6; then Cousin Curtiss Band,
7-10
7/11 -- New Third Coast, 6:30-9:30
7/12 -- Aaron Dye & Friends, 6:309:30
7/13 -- Red Barn Brass Quintet, 5-6; Drew Hale, 6:30-9:30
7/14 -- Happy Hour w/ Jackie Pappas,
3-6; then Delilah DeWylde, 7-10
7/15 -- The Daydrinker Series w/ Jon & Will, 3-6; then Stonefolk, 7-10
Antrim & Charlevoix
7/8 -- Randy Reszka
7/14 -- Clint Weaner
7/15 -- Peter Allen Jensen
MAMMOTH DISTILLING, BELLAIRE
7:30-10:30:
7/8 & 7/15 – Steve Dawson
PEARL’S NEW ORLEANS KITCHEN, ELK RAPIDS
7/13 -- Craig Jolly, 6-9
PROVISIONS WINE LOUNGE, BOYNE CITY
7/11 -- Peter Allen Jensen, 6
7/8 -- BIG FUN (unplugged), 7
Sun -- Waterbed feat. Jimmy Olson & Matt McCalpin, 7-9:30
Thu -- Blake Elliott & Friends, 7-9:30
TWO K FARMS CIDERY & WINERY, SUTTONS BAY
4:30-6:30:
7/8 – Rhett & John
7/13 – DJ Marco
7/15 – Blair Miller
VI GRILL, SUTTONS BAY Sat. – Karaoke, 9
SHORT’S BREW PUB, BELLAIRE BEER GARDEN, 7-9:30:
7/8 -- Snacks & Five
7/14 -- Austin Benzing Band
7/15 -- Steve Brown
SHORT’S PULL BARN, ELK RAPIDS
7/8 -- Alex Teller, 6:30-9:30
7/9 -- Ethan Bott, 6:30-9:30
7/13 -- Old Mission Fiddle Vine, 6:30-9:30
7/14 -- Petko, 6:30-9:30
7/15 -- Matt Mansfield, 6:30-9:30
7/16 -- Mulebone, 6-9
Manistee, Wexford & Missaukee
7/15 --
NORTHERN
7/12
RAY’S BBQ, BREWS & BLUES, GRAYLING
7/9 -- Blair Miller, 4
7/8
7/15
MANTON
7/8
OUTDOOR STAGE:
