Today I discovered The Folded Leaf at the Common Grounds/Alluvion building on 8th Street in NOBO. Books, art, and great coffee from Higher Grounds coffee. It needs to be celebrated…this bold sort of entrepreneurial initiative by a fine young lady, and in the company of world class artists like Jeff Haas and even Ladysmith Black Mambazo!
It takes courage, fortitude, and great effort to establish such venues. Let us in this city, embrace such places. Reading to enrich your mind, coffee to sharpen your wits, art to enrich your soul, and a gathering place to celebrate the best of who we are and what we can be.
Mark Daniel Zemanek | Cedar
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top ten
Heating Up with Sauna Fest
The second annual Michigan Sauna Fest is coming into town April 10-12, as nine saunas from around the state set up their steamy shops at Clinch Park in downtown Traverse City. The sauna lineup includes familiar local names— TC’s Hearth Sauna and Kingley’s Asanta Sauna, for example—but also brings businesses from Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Norton Shores. Friday night’s events are for VIPs, volunteers, and sauna hosts, but Saturday the festival opens to the public from 9am-9pm, with a community cold plunge, entertainment and live music, and of course, plenty of sauna options. Sunday’s activities run from 9am-3pm. While the VIP Weekend Pass ($90) sold out within 12 hours, single-session passes are still available. For $40, you get access to all the mobile saunas on-site during your selected time slot. Buy tickets and find more info at michigansaunafest.com.
2 tastemaker Mama Lu’s Vegetal Taco
In one short month, Mama Lu’s of Traverse City will be no more. After 10 years on Front Street, the beloved taco shop will celebrate its last day on Cinco de Mayo before closing for a week and then reopening as fast-casual Asian eatery Happy Cat. All of that to say, get your favorite tacos while you still can! While you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, we’re most going to miss the Vegetal ($4.50), a potato-based taco that rotates with the seasons. Right now, the ingredients include crispy fingerling potatoes, black garlic crema, escabeche (essentially pickled veggies), cotija cheese, and cilantro. But a special shout-out also goes to the churros in all their cinnamon-y and chocolatey deliciousness. Head to 149 E Front Street in TC for tacos and churros ASAP. mamalustc.com
The Nature of Place
The Grand Traverse Circuit, which presents “Community Cultural Arts, Wellness, & Education” programming, is bringing author, activist, and bioregionalist Stephanie Mills to discuss intentional and sustainable living through the lens of northern Michigan’s land, watershed, wildlife, and community. The event will be held on April 8 from 6-8pm and is sponsored by Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation. Proceeds benefit local nonprofit Title Track—founder Seth Bernard will be on hand to introduce Mills. Learn more at savemiwater.org/events.
Hey, read It! Operation Bounce House 4
Just like his curmudgeonly grandfather Lewis, all young farmer Oliver wants is some peace and quiet (and maybe a working combine harvester). For the last few generations, that’s exactly how residents of New Sonora, a planet annexed by Earth, have lived—that is, until armored bots equipped with high-tech explosives and hormonal rage start appearing. Turns out, Earth has issued an “eviction action,” incorrectly labelling most of the planet as a wasteland overrun by insurgents, and instead of addressing the perceived threat themselves, have enlisted the help of AI gamers to do their dirty work as part of a game called Operation Bounce House. This “game” means very real danger for Oliver and his elderly neighbors—and if the countdown is right, they have just seven hours to prepare for the battle of a lifetime. Bestselling sci-fi author Matt Dinniman is at it again in his newest novel, Operation Bounce House. Part Galaxy Quest, part Transformers with a dash of Star Wars, this read is 100 percent escapist perfection!
Pictured: Sleeping Bear Saunas
Antiques, Castles, and Frostbite
Charlevoix has two big events this weekend, and both promise to entertain. First up, on Friday, April 10, from 6-9pm is an Antiques Roadshow viewing party at Castle Farms in the lead-up to the episode shot in Charlevoix, which airs Monday, April 13, on PBS. The party has free entry, a cash bar, and soup flights plus a panini station. See more at castlefarms.com/events. Next, on Saturday, April 11, catch the final date for the Frostbite Trail, a tasting experience that spans 10 Antrim and Charlevoix wineries, brewers, and distillers. The trail is “open” from 12-6pm, and the April theme is Street Food, so expect “a global journey with bites full of flavor” to be paired with your tasting or cocktail at each stop. Tickets are pay-as-you-go to each stop; details and participating businesses at frostbitetrail.com.
Expanding Boyne Forest Trails
Boyne Forest Trails, located just a few minutes north of Boyne City, could be getting a 36-acre expansion in the near future. Little Traverse Conservancy (LTC) and Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association (TOMMBA) have joined forces to raise $300,000 to purchase and permanently protect a tract of rolling hardwood forest adjacent to the existing trail system. The fundraising will also support an excavator for TOMMBA to help build new trails. If the property is purchased, LTC will “carefully inventory the property’s natural features and ecological qualities before determining how best to integrate new trails,” according to a joint press release. This will expand the existing three loops and nearly 15 miles already on the Boyne Forest Trails property (which you can view here: trailforks.com/ region/boyne-forest-trails.) Learn more at landtrust.org/give/boyneforest.
Stuff We Love:
Burgers Helping Burgers
Leslie Bilbey and Josh Gray of Oakwood Proper Burgers in Traverse City won’t just be slinging patties and fries this weekend. On Saturday, April 11, they’re hosting a fundraiser for fellow chef Tim Bergstrom of Bergstrom’s Burgers, who has been battling cancer for over a year.
The goal of the fundraiser is to make 1,000 burgers in a single day, with all proceeds going to Bergstrom and his family.
Oakwood will have a second grill going and extended hours 8am-10pm on Saturday to get to the milestone, and if weather permits, they’ll open up their outdoor seating and bar area, so fingers crossed for sunshine! Last but not least, gift cards purchased on April 11 count toward the fundraising goal. See all the details at facebook.com/oakwoodproperburgers. And be sure to visit Oakwood at 1108 E. 8th Street and Bergstrom’s at 905 US-31 S, both in Traverse City.
bottoms up Malted Vinyl’s Yellow Duster
We know spring weather is on the way, but we’d go absolutely bananas for some al fresco action right about now! In the meantime, we’ll be sipping on The Yellow Duster at Malted Vinyl in Petoskey. Crafted on the coattails of the Petoskey’s annual Banana Bread Festival (with a cheeky nod to Curious George), this tiki-perfect cocktail drinks like a spring getaway in a glass. It starts with Tempus Fugit Sprits’ caramelly Crème de Banane, a small-batch banana liqueur, against the clean and slightly smoky profile of a tequila-mezcal hybrid called Mezquila. Shaken with fresh lemon and lime juices, house-made demerara syrup, and angostura bitters and finished with the spicy aromatics of whole-grated nutmeg, it’s tropical, complex, and a little untamed—perfect for a night on the beach, even if it’s just in our dreams! Visit Malted Vinyl at 316 E Mitchell St. in Petoskey. maltedvinyl.com
in Portland, Oregon, a handful of nitwits
Most Americans agreed with a policy that was going to round up those here illegally who engaged in violent criminal behavior in their home country or here and summarily deport them. That somehow morphed into a numbers game of how many deportations a day we could manage regardless of criminal behavior.
At one point Trump claimed he could deport 10 million illegal immigrants. In what must be a cruel reality for his followers, Trump has not managed to deport as many as did Barack Obama or, shockingly, even as many as Joe Biden. According to ICE’s own statistics, Biden deported 685,000 illegal immigrants
This government of the rich, by the rich, and for the rich sees the rest of us as just cogs on their wheels of wealth.
decided it would be a good idea to throw rocks and try to burn some stuff like they always do. In Portland, the protesters are now joined by nihilistic anarchists who would throw rocks at a funeral and try to light a headstone afire.
So, what were all these people protesting? There is much, much more than a single issue.
There is the violence perpetrated by ICE, including the shooting deaths of two protesters in Minneapolis. There’s the irrational immigration crackdown sweeping up people based on little more than skin color and an accent. There’s the likely extralegal attacks on boats in international waters we claim are carrying drugs but have offered no proof. There’s the kidnapping of a foreign head of state. There’s the war against Iran we started with little or no provocation and skyrocketing gas prices that resulted. There’s the ill-conceived tariffs that have increased prices for so much for so many American consumers. There’s our part in the neverending destruction of Gaza. There’s the SAVE Act, an attempt to disenfranchise millions of legal voters.
(Our District 1 Congressman, Jack Bergman, has not specifically commented on the latest rallies but previously said people should announce what they’re for, not just what they’re against.)
In short, President Trump has made decisions and taken the country in a direction few but the hardest core MAGA true-believers care to follow. The “America First” platform on which he was elected quickly rotted and splintered, replaced with something entirely different.
Most Americans don’t believe America First includes new foreign entanglements when there are issues aplenty to solve here at home, like rescuing Social Security and Medicare, which edge closer and closer to insolvency.
in 2024, and Trump only managed 622,000 deportations in 2025.
Obama, who was derisively known as the Deporter-in-Chief by pro-immigration activists, deported at least 3.2 million during his two terms. Trump, by comparison, has deported 1.6 million in his five years, so far. Trump also claimed he could “easily” balance the budget in 10 years while bringing the price of gas to less than $2 per gallon. According to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, in his first term, rather than balancing the budget or reducing debt, Trump added $8 trillion to the debt and in just one year of his second term he has already added another $2 trillion in debt. Gas prices hover around $4 per gallon.
Meanwhile, the war in Iran, which we started, is costing us about $1 billion every day according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies. That is mostly due to all the munitions we’re using. The costs will increase exponentially, in logistics alone, if we put boots on the Iranian ground. We’ve already declared victory multiple times and claim Iran’s fighting capabilities have been obliterated, decimated, completely destroyed, wiped out, and so on. And yet, Iran keeps fighting back, apparently unaware of their total destruction.
The rallies were a powerful statement of discontent among many, many Americans. Trump’s approval ratings range from a low of 31 percent in a University of Massachusetts Amherst poll to a high—if you can call it that—of 41 percent in a Fox News poll.
Surely Washington sees and hears the protests, but do they actually listen? The president and his billionaire cronies don’t pull into gas stations, nor do they spend much time in grocery stores, and there is little evidence they much care about those of us who do. This government of the rich, by the rich, and for the rich sees the rest of us as just cogs on their wheels of wealth.
LOOKING TO THE PAST TO SOLVE TODAY’S HOUSING CHALLENGES
Guest Opinion
by Kent Wood
This year has made one thing clear: even as progress is made, some of the most important structural solutions to Michigan’s housing imbalance remain politically vulnerable.
To be sure, there has been real momentum. A number of communities across Northern Michigan have adopted housing-ready policies, streamlined approvals, and embraced new tools to support development. State leaders have also begun to engage more directly in conversations about supply, cost, and regulatory barriers.
But when it comes to the root causes of our housing shortage—particularly land use policy—the conversation too often slips backward. Instead of focusing on solutions, we hear familiar talking points rooted more in fear and outdated assumptions than in data or lived experience.
Local zoning and layers of state and federal regulation play a significant role in the cost and availability of housing. These rules directly shape what can be built, where it can be built, and how much it costs. And right now, it is often difficult, if not impossible, to build the types of homes most in demand.
That demand is clear. Young professionals, working families, and seniors looking to downsize are not all seeking large homes on large lots. Many are looking for smaller, more attainable options—homes with modest square footage, fewer bedrooms, and access to jobs, schools, and community amenities.
We have many names for this kind of housing: starter homes, duplexes, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), townhomes, and small multifamily buildings. These are not new or experimental concepts. They were once a normal and accepted part of American neighborhoods, including here in Michigan.
Walk through many older neighborhoods and you’ll find them: a duplex tucked between single-family homes, a carriage house converted into an apartment, a modest home on a small lot near a downtown corridor. These housing types helped create well-rounded, functional communities.
Over time, however, zoning codes became more restrictive. Minimum lot sizes increased. Duplexes and small multifamily housing were pushed out of residential districts. Parking requirements expanded. Bit by bit, many of the housing types that once provided attainable options were regulated out of existence.
Historically, zoning has been used—both intentionally and unintentionally—to exclude certain people and households. We continue to hear the same arguments surface whenever zoning reforms are proposed. Concerns that duplexes will “change the character” of a neighborhood. That smaller homes will reduce property values. That allowing an ADU will overwhelm parking or infrastructure.
The reality is, we have seen these reforms in practice, and the outcomes simply do not match the fears.
Can communities still debate and use zoning to limit large-scale developments in traditional neighborhoods? Absolutely, and that’s where the conversation should be focused. But duplexes and accessory dwelling units are not large-scale developments. They are modest, incremental additions that fit within existing neighborhoods.
We also know that large homes and oversized lots are not what define a neighborhood’s character. Smaller homes and a mix of housing types have always been part of healthy communities.
Research from Michigan-based Flywheel Community Development Services highlights the disconnect between what people want and what current zoning allows. Nationally, 56 percent of households say they would prefer smaller homes with less yard space and closer access to jobs, schools, and amenities. Yet in Michigan’s metropolitan areas, only about 6 percent of land is zoned to allow this type of housing, and just 1 percent of that land is vacant.
If we want to meet today’s housing demand, we cannot rely solely on undeveloped land. We must also allow for thoughtful, incremental changes within existing neighborhoods.
In northwest Michigan, many communities want more housing, but they don’t want large-scale developments to define their future. That is a reasonable position. But it requires a willingness to allow smaller, more incremental housing options.
A number of northern Michigan communities are already moving in this direction. In places like Traverse City, Frankfort, and East Bay Township, local leaders have begun aligning zoning policies with current housing needs. They have created more flexibility for homeowners and modest increases in housing supply, without fundamentally altering neighborhood character.
These are not sweeping changes. They are small, practical adjustments that allow communities to evolve over time.
Too often, local leaders attempt to make these changes and are met with intense opposition, driven by misconceptions rather than facts. We should be clear: allowing a duplex will not fundamentally alter a neighborhood. Reducing a parking requirement will not create chaos. Permitting a small home on a smaller lot will not undermine a community’s future.
The best housing policy is grounded in data, experience, and a clear understanding of today’s realities, not yesterday’s rhetoric. Because the status quo is not neutral. It is actively limiting the housing options our communities say they want and need.
Kent Wood is the founder of consulting firm Borealis Strategic, and serves as Policy Advisor for Housing North, a 10-county housing agency serving northwest Michigan.
Snow&Days Cozy Cabanas
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STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
CHRISTOPHER KNUDSEN
(Sophmore - Varsity Basketball - Leland)
Chris is a sophomore with a 4.0 GPA and a three-sport varsity athlete in cross country, track, and basketball (point guard). He has qualified for state finals in cross country and earned All-Conference honors in basketball. Known for his kindness and strong character, he is a well-rounded and respected individual both on and off the field.
What's in a Name?
It's election time in the town of ArcisSur-Aube in France, where the office of mayor is up for grabs. Metro News reported on March 19 that the burg's 2,785 people will have a choice between Charles Hittler, the incumbent, and Antoine Renault-Zielenski, the 28-year-old far-right candidate. Hittler isn't a fan of the fuss: "If people were talking about the town and our policies, that would be one thing," he said. "But all they're interested in is our names." He said his father considered changing his name after World War II, but it would have been too expensive. The election is scheduled for March 22.
[Metro News, 3/19/2026]
Inexplicable
Most people can't wait to leave the hospital after a stay for medical care. But at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare in Florida, one patient isn't budging. WCTV reported on March 16 that a patient has occupied a room there since at least October, having been admitted for "acute care hospital services." The first formal discharge order was filed on Oct. 7, with subsequent orders filed on Nov. 24 and March 2. Hospital staff have made repeated efforts to "safely complete discharge," including coordinating with family members and arranging transportation. A hearing is set for March 30. [WCTV, 3/16/2026]
Least Competent Criminal
Patrick Alexander, 33, was THIS CLOSE to walking out of the Chesterfield County (Mississippi) Detention Center on March 16, having been ordered to pay a $250 bond on a trespassing charge. He handed three $100 bills to the judge, WSB-TV reported, and said, "Keep the change." But the sharpeyed judge noticed something weird about the bills -- an unusual color, along with Chinese writing on the backs. A counterfeit detection pen backed him up -- the bills were fake. Alexander faces an additional charge of forgery, and he was returned to custody. [WSB, 3/18/2026]
Field Report
On March 10, a man and woman from Germany, who had been trying to ski 104 miles across a frozen lake between Finland and Sweden, had to be rescued after the ice around them broke up, the New York Post reported. They had been camping on the Gulf of Bothnia, which typically is frozen for much of the year, when almost all of their equipment went into the water. Finnish border guards received a distress signal and sent out a search plane and hovercraft. Fortunately, the couple had spelled out SOS with ice blocks and were rescued about five hours after their ordeal began. They were "of course cold" but were unharmed. [NYPost, 3/17/2026]
Ewwww
If you're wondering where all your hair ties go, maybe check in with your family feline. United Press International reported on March 17 that the HALO No-Kill Rescue Shelter in Sebastian, Florida, recently took in Midnite, a cat who had been diagnosed with an intestinal blockage and marked for euthanasia at another facility. When Midnite underwent surgery, doctors found
the cause of the blockage: 26 hair ties. "This is an important reminder that small objects around the house can be incredibly dangerous for pets," the shelter posted on Facebook. Midnite is recovering and displaying a healthy appetite. [UPI, 3/17/2026]
The Tech Revolution
A 70-year-old woman in Macau, China, went to the hospital after being startled by a 4-foot-4-inch robot on March 5, the Macau Post reported. As the woman walked along the street around 9 p.m., the bot followed her; she turned around and shouted, "You're making my heart race! You've got plenty to do, so what's the point of messing around with this?" Two police officers escorted the bot away; they later discovered it is owned by a tutorial center in the neighborhood, and the man operating it remotely said he was testing it. The bot, a Unitree G1, retails for about $13,000. The woman was released from the hospital. [Macau Post, 3/11/2026]
The Entrepreneurial Spirit
Talk about making lemonade. Javier Yat, a 23-year-old mechanic in Brooklyn, New York, is lining his pockets with cash after setting up a tire station next to a huge pothole, the New York Post reported on March 17. Yat works out of his van and typically runs out of replacement tires each night. "I have to pay a runner to go back and forth to the shop for me and pick up what I need," Yat said. "I think the pothole is approximately 60 square inches and 12 inches deep," he said. He arrives in the area around 12:30 a.m. and stays until 10 a.m., changing 15 to 20 tires each night and charging between $150 and $300 per tire. "One man's misfortune is another man's blessing," Yat said. [NY Post, 3/17/2026]
Recurring Themes
On March 18, as a shopper perused the plush toys at Hobart International Airport in Australia, they spotted a cute little face peering out from the shelf -- and blinking. The Guardian reported that a brushtail possum had made itself at home among the stuffed kangaroos and dingoes, delighting customers and staff. Airport officials safely removed the little bundle of fur, but it'll not be forgotten: "We'll have a little shrine to the possum," said Liam Bloomfield, retail manager. "There will be a nice little photo; once it gets a name, we will put a nice little post in front of the store to make sure it's remembered." No word on how it got through security. [Guardian, 3/19/2026]
That's One Way To Do It
Gustavo DeJesus Torres, 33, took his time in his bank-robbing spree, The New York Times reported on March 18, but didn't net much of a haul. Torres robbed six banks in five days across Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Bronx. At each Chase branch, Torres handed the teller a note saying people would get hurt if they didn't hand over money. He got $320 and $265 from a couple of banks, but walked away with just $20 from another. And three branches gave him nothing at all. His total "earnings" were just $605. Police are still searching for Torres, who has been charged with bank robbery before. [New York Times, 3/18/2026]
Old Mission Tavern Returns
The past, present, and future of the storied peninsula restaurant
By Geri Dietze
Chef and co-owner Brian Daley knows that he and partner Stephanie Krupka are setting up shop in a “beloved” landmark restaurant, and he understands the delicate balance between honoring the original site and moving forward with new flavors and methods.
“Nostalgia is a short tightrope to walk,” Daley says, explaining that even producing the favorite dishes with the old recipes would still feel “a little different.” Instead, the new version of Old Mission Tavern will feel “homey and familiar,” with cherished flavors “done up a little bit” with newer techniques.
Simply put, Old Mission Tavern offers some favorites, some fresh interpretations, and some completely new items all aimed at honoring what came before.
The Past
A quick recap: Old Mission Tavern was first opened by the Bartnick family in 1979 as Mission Freeze ice cream, becoming a beer-burger-pool table sort of place before emerging as the popular white tablecloth establishment that prospered until 2020, when COVID made a mess of everyone’s business plan.
The family chose not to reopen postpandemic, so the building sat until it was put up for sale in 2024. New partner Krupka is an Old Mission native and worked at the Tavern during college summers.
Daley and Krupka have between them 20 years of experience in high-end restaurants: Daley at the James Beard-award-winning Blackbird (and another COVID casualty,
closed after a 22-year run) and Krupka at Sepia, a Michelin recipient situated right around the corner. (Daley moved to Sepia after Blackbird closed.)
These Chicago front-runners took American food to new dimensions without losing the comfortable vibe and gave new life to the West Loop neighborhood. Daley and Krupka brought that energy north and coupled it with thoughtfully created recipes loyal to the Tavern flavors and reminiscent of specialties of decades past. They are joined in the venture by three Chicago friends, chefs all, so keep expectations high.
The Present
The March 18 opening was measured and confident, not flinging the doors wide open to hit the ground running, but rather to “finesse” the opening, “to make sure that everyone, [both guests and employees] have a good time,” Daley says.
As a result, the team had no plan to fill the tavern’s 100 seat capacity, but to “start small,” in the dining room at a level that is “not rushed,” but comfortable and inviting. “From there,” he adds, “we’ll build up [capacity.]”
Krupka was pleased with the first night. “Opening night was a success!” she tells us. “We were happy to welcome 75 guests into the restaurant, including some family and many local members of the community.”
Krupka says that after years of Old Mission Tavern sitting empty, the number one goal was to get it reopened and offer longtime patrons and visitors a familiar ambiance. “The building has a charming feel to it,” she says, and no large-scale renos
were done, with the team keeping the same footprint, plus the existing carpet, tables, and chairs.
The walls have been painted a rich, deep blue highlighted by an “eclectic selection of décor.” The biggest change is the addition of an HVAC system in the main dining room, ending the need for space heaters used by the previous owners to cut the chill.
The Future
For this first season (when the weather warms up), guests will find the patio open as a cocktail space. Lunch will begin next year, and eventually the back room will be used for expanded dining and special events.
For the foreseeable future, the team is committed to making some new history in this storied location. Adds Chef Daley, “I can’t say it enough: This was a beloved restaurant. We want to make sure things go well.”
The Menu
Expect some classic starters, like Steak Tartare with egg yolk jam, Caesar salad, or Prince Edward Island Mussels. (“Mussels will always be on the menu,” says Daley.)
Or choose Ribollita, a Tuscan-style stew; Charred Cabbage with black olives, tahini, pinenuts, and honey vinaigrette; Welsh Rarebit with melted aged cheddar on toasted sourdough with leeks and mushrooms; and Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with salsa macha and goat cheese.
Entrees include the Beef Delmonico, cooked sous vide to 130 degrees, then grilled to order, with mashed potatoes, and mushroom and onion jus. (Sous vide is the French water bath method, yielding
perfectly tender meats.)
The Rainbow Trout is raised in streams fed by artesian aquifers, arriving fresh, never frozen, then pan-fried and served with sunchoke, bacon, and kale salad, with beer Blanc, a reduction of beer, clam juice, cream, and butter.
The Roasted Half-Chicken, resting on toasted sourdough with chicken liver mousse, cherry jam, and pearl onions is “absolutely delicious,” and might become a new favorite of the liver and onions fans.
Diners will want to try the Lamb Sugo (Italian for Sunday Gravy), a thick meat sauce over hand-cut pasta, garlic cream, artichoke, and herb blend. And don’t miss the Breaded Pork Chop, bone-in, with polenta and roasted Brussel sprouts; or the Venison Stuffed Cabbage, with coffee miso jus and root vegetables.
Look for featured Sunday Chicken Dinners and Prime Rib Specials, plus simple desserts featuring the bounty of the peninsula.
Behind the bar, Krupka has a minimalist approach to spirits, wines, and brews.
“Too many choices are not a luxury,” she explains. That’s a refreshing take in this world of complicated mixology and ponderous wine lists. Instead, expect classic cocktails with simple updates, a selection of popular brews, and a dozen wines, by the glass or the bottle, representing our region, plus Oregon, Italy, France, Argentina, and the Iberian Peninsula.
Find Old Mission Tavern at 17015 Center Rd. in Traverse City. (231) 223-7280; oldmissiontaverntc.com
“Beauty Can Be Found Almost Anywhere”
Q&A with architecture photographer Keith King
By Molly Cox
“It took me a while in life to realize I wanted to be a photographer,” says Keith King, a Traverse Citian whose work in architecture and interior design photography has earned him work with prestigious firms and spreads in national publications.
“When I graduated college the first time with a business degree, I bought a camera to take on a trip out west with a friend. I loved it. The ability to capture scenes and light, and to be able to work compositions how I wanted to, was instantly gratifying. Photography was so fulfilling that I immediately enrolled in college again to obtain a degree in photojournalism. The ability to create and to tell stories and document life was what spoke to me.”
Though he began his career in 2003, King didn’t start specializing until a few years ago.
“In early 2020, during the pandemic, my partner gave me a book about Detroit— it’s one of my favorite cities because of the history and character—that focused on its buildings. The timing was perfect; I was searching for subject matter to photograph
because I couldn’t photograph people as much, or in the proximity, I was used to. The book inspired me to photograph some of the historic and interesting buildings around Traverse City. This new interest also opened my eyes to looking at our surroundings with a fresh perspective.”
As he photographed more and more architecture, King says he realized that the buildings themselves could tell a story.
“The various qualities that light possesses have attracted me since I can remember, and photographing architecture also helps me channel that appreciation,” he explains. “Interior design interests me for many of the same reasons that architecture does.”
We sat down with King for a Q&A about his work, his eye for light and design, and where you can find some of the most stunning homes and buildings in northern Michigan.
Express: What are your favorite architectural/design movements or styles?
King: Modern architecture, with clean lines, creative concepts, and interesting materials, is what my favorite architecture
currently is. All types of architecture interest me, though, if done in a certain way. Mid-century modern architecture is wonderful, with its vintage vibes, light play, and nostalgia. Brutalism can also be quite profound, also.
Traverse City boasts some phenomenal examples of all these types of architecture.
One of my favorite buildings in town is the Shirley S. Okerstrom Fine Arts Building on the campus of Northwestern Michigan College, designed by Walter Gropius. The lines, light, high ceilings, and so much more are incredibly unique. I had classes there back in the day, and it took me no time to realize what a special space that was. The more I thought about that building, the more I discovered how strong the power of architecture could be.
Express: In many of your pictures, we noticed that the natural setting of a building site can be as important and interesting as the design of the building itself.
King: During my photojournalism training, one of the methods we were taught to employ was to capture a variety of angles and perspectives to tell a complete story.
The use of natural settings is one way I like to tell the story of a building. Because of this, I try to photograph a structure (or whatever I’m photographing) from far away and up close, and everything in between. Architects can take quite careful consideration when selecting a location, and the design of the building often plays with that location.
Express: How do you approach your work when photographing something new?
King: Light is very important to me, so I’m always studying the characteristics of it to see how things look. … After looking at light for so long, I think my natural tendency is to try to capture structures and interiors in a way that gives the subjects depth. Early morning and late morning light can be quite special. Cloudy days, too, can be wonderful because they offer a diffused and soft light that is really nice. Another approach I have is quite simple. I basically just try to take a really good photo with a simple composition. Then, I immediately critique myself, and then ask myself, “How can you make this photo better?” I’ve been
"The Passage" design by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson. Photos courtesy of Keith King
photographing like that since I can remember, and so I naturally still do it.
feeling that not only invites you in, but it almost magnetically pulls you in toward a scene. You can feel it.
Do you have any advice for aspiring professional photographers?
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve heard, time and time again, and really feel is important, is to photograph what you love.
depending on what you’re photographing. But there’s a richness acquired in being out in the world and having a heightened set of senses while holding a camera. Just walking around with a camera, observing and photographing, can be a beautiful and extremely fulfilling way to spend time and be creative.
of the outdoors as we can by getting out on our pontoon boat, going for a hike, or just heading to any body of water we can find to be near it, and to focus on the importance of being in the moment and appreciating our surroundings. This is one of the many reasons we love northern Michigan, too. To call this beautiful area home is such a gift. But, also, beauty can be found almost
Design by North45 Architecture
Design by Red Door Design
SMART MOVES AND BIG MISTAKES FOR BUYERS AND SELLERS ALIKE
By Art Bukowski
It can be a jungle out there for those looking to buy or sell a home in northern Michigan. Even though the market has backed off those truly crazy days driven by very low interest rates a few years ago, it’s still a very competitive space where it’s best to have all of your ducks in a row if you’re planning to buy or sell.
Northern Express asked four local real estate agents to provide some big mistakes and smart moves for buyers and sellers alike. The panel includes Troy Daily of REMAX Bayshore; Bart Ford of Coldwell Banker Schmidt; Mike Annelin of Century 21; and Hillary Voight of Found Realty.
Smart Moves for Buyers
Ford: Smart buyers do a lot of research on the area in which they are buying and ask tons of questions. Is there a glut of listings to choose from in the area, making it a buyer’s market? Is there a shortage of inventory that has created a seller’s market? Will my agent be aware of any “off market” opportunities that have yet to hit the market? Are short term rentals allowed where I’m buying? How are the schools? What have similar properties sold for in my target market? Do I have reserves for large, unexpected expenses? The more questions, the better.
Voight: Get ahead of the competition. If a property feels right, this can be an opportune time to purchase. The buyer pool will only grow as interest rates drop and northern Michigan heads into the busy season. Buyers who act while the majority of other buyers wait on the sidelines will often benefit from better flexibility of showings, favorable inspection periods, and generous negotiation opportunities. Getting ahead of the competition also provides buyers with more time to make strategic and confident decisions.
Annelin: It seems obvious, but PLAN! If you are even remotely thinking of making a move, plan ahead. Visit a bank, have an idea of what you honestly feel comfortable spending. If you own a house currently, have your agent visit and give you a general sense of what you will actually net from the sale. I see it time and time again where a house comes available that a client wants to buy, but they are not prepared. It causes a ton of stress for everyone and does not put the buyer in a strong position when it comes to negotiations.
Daily: View a property as a long-term asset, not just a lifestyle purchase. In northern Michigan, two homes at the same price point can have very different long-term values depending on location, year-round usability, maintenance needs, and future
resale appeal. Whether someone plans to relocate here or buy a place they can enjoy over time, the smartest buy usually keeps the most options open.
Big Mistakes for Buyers
Ford: The biggest mistake I see from buyers is trying to time the market. Your interest rate is never going to be zero. The
house you buy will never be perfect, even if you build one. It is nearly impossible to sell in a seller’s market and turn around to buy in a buyer’s market. Don’t let a great opportunity pass you by based on perfect timing.
Daily: One big mistake buyers make is focusing too much on the purchase price and not enough on the full cost of ownership. In this market, taxes, insurance, utilities,
Ford
Voight
association fees, deferred maintenance, and future improvements can significantly change the math. That is true whether the property ends up being a primary residence, a second home, or part of a longer-term investment strategy. The buyers who win are the ones who know their numbers before they fall in love with the house.
Annelin: Don’t feel like you need to see more houses if you really like the first house you see. Buyers have more tools than ever to see houses before actually visiting in person. In reality, most buyers have already investigated and ruled out a lot of houses before they actually get in the car. Don’t regret not making a move on what you really know is the right house.
Voight: A common mistake buyers make is not thinking of the sellers’ needs. Both the buy side and sell side experience mixed emotions during a real estate transaction. Rather than being combative in the negotiation process, it’s a much better strategy to craft an addendum with a touch of hospitality while maintaining the mindset that the closing should feel collaborative.
Smart Moves for Sellers
Ford: Offer a healthy buyer’s side commission. This will entice a professional buyer’s agent to show your property and sell it to their qualified buyer. I’m a big fan of chasing the market up as opposed to chasing it down. If your agent believes your home is worth $500,000 do not list your home for $575,000. You will just end up reducing the price and probably sell it for less than $500,000. This process also takes a long time, wastes money, and causes pain and unwarranted stress. List the property for $499,900 and maybe you’ll get $525,000. Above all else, make sure your home is clean!
Daily: Positioning your property around both lifestyle and long-term value. Today’s buyers aren’t just shopping for a home, they’re thinking about flexibility. It might be a place they use now, relocate to later, or hold as an investment. The listings that stand out are those that clearly communicate yearround livability, updates, utility costs, and overall ease of ownership.
Annelin: Finish all of the little projects: the touch-up paint, the missing trim or baseboard, the closet doors that keep falling off the track. A house that is well kept is a house buyers want to buy. Also, make a detailed list of all the improvements you have made and the year in which they were done. The more robust and detailed the list the better. The cost of materials and labor continues to increase, and buyers are seeing more value in homes that have improvements made already.
Voight: Decluttering isn’t just marketing— it builds buyer confidence. A home filled with personal items can make buyers question whether possession will actually happen on schedule. Preparing early not only reassures buyers, but it also reduces last-minute stress for sellers. Pack items knowing the home will sell. The “act as if” mentality truly works— whether you call it manifesting or being type-A prepared—and it’s going to serve a seller well.
Big
Mistakes for Sellers
Ford: Selling your home without a Realtor. A great listing agent is invaluable to a successful transaction. Exposing your home to as many buyers as possible is the best way to sell your home for the most amount of money in the shortest amount of time. This is my goal every time. Most “for sale by owners” are willing to pay a buyer’s agent but have a hard time justifying their agent’s fee. A great listing agent will provide a ton of guidance and will protect the seller leaving any money on the table. Listen to the professionals!
Daily: One big mistake for sellers is assuming desirability alone will carry the deal. Northern Michigan is absolutely a place people want to be, but buyers still pay close attention to value and monthly cost. When a property is priced based on emotion or peak market expectations instead of today’s reality, it can lose momentum quickly. The strongest sellers understand that buyers are still excited about the area, but they are also doing the math. Pricing a house correctly is super important right now.
Voight: A mistake sellers make is choosing an agent based on social media presence rather than authentic professionalism. I’ve never had a seller ask during a pitch while interviewing multiple agents: “If I called the last two agents you worked with, what would they say about you?” Yet this question is gold. Real estate is cooperative, and seamless transactions happen when agents maintain strong, respectful relationships with their peers. An agent’s reputation among other brokers often speaks louder than marketing. Choosing someone known for professionalism, work ethic, and positive relationships can make a real difference.
Annelin: This one seems obvious, but it’s important: Price the house competitively for the market. An overpriced house almost always ends up selling for less than it should have, compared to pricing it correctly from the beginning. Pricing a house is not the easiest task, and everyone misses from time to time, so if you have a house that has been listed for a little while without offers, adjust accordingly.
PRO SHOP • CLUBHOUSE RESTAURANT
MONDAY: 1/2 OFF FOR KIDS UNDER 12
TUESDAY: LOCAL’S NIGHT BURGER & A BEER : $11
WEDNESDAY: TRIVIA NIGHT 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
FRIDAY: FISH & SHRIMP FRY
SUNDAY: BRUNCH 9-2 PM
By Ren Brabenec
According to the United States Census Bureau, the 2026 median household income in Michigan’s 1st Congressional District is around $64,000, a slight uptick from $56,000 in 2018. A $64,000 income supports a home price of about $200,000-$250,000, depending on one’s debt-to-income ratio and other factors.
Income may have inched up in northern Michigan over the past eight years, but even those modest income gains are deceptive, because inflation has increased faster than wages. Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, though the median income is now $64,000, one would actually have to make $73,483 in 2026 to afford the same goods and services that $56,000 bought in 2018.
Amid declining purchasing power, home prices have skyrocketed. According to Northern Great Lakes Realtors, the median price for a home in northern Michigan hovered around $200,000-$270,000 in 2018. Today, even rural “starter” homes fetch $300,000, and the median price of a home in Grand Traverse County is $396,750. Given that grim landscape, we decided to check in with local and state experts to find out what’s being done to make northern Michigan housing more affordable.
The MI Home Loan Program
At the state level, some of the most important work to increase homeownership access is being done at the Michigan State
Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), specifically in the Homeownership Division.
For over 30 years, Michigan has maintained the MI Home Loan Program, a state-managed suite of products available to first-time home buyers and some repeat buyers in targeted areas. The program exists to provide low- to moderate-income households with down payment and closing cost assistance and competitive mortgage rates.
“We’re continuously evaluating our programs and products to meet the needs of communities across the state, including the many rural communities Michiganders call home,” says Tonya Coon, director of the Homeownership Division. “Through our acreage limit expansion and sales price limit increase, we added more flexibility and opportunities for homebuyers in areas like northwest Michigan. Being able to put down roots in a community you love, with an affordable, quality place to call home, shouldn’t be out of reach…”
Coon explains how, when buyers work with the MI Home Loan Program, the State of Michigan serves as the end investor in loans facilitated by qualified lenders statewide. Because of the state’s involvement, the program can offer benefits such as $10,000 in downpayment assistance (repayable during refinance or when the property is sold) and mortgage rates that can be 0.25 percent to 0.5 percent lower than private-market rates.
“The goal is to help people who otherwise would not have the financial
Housing Incentives at the State and Local Level
Experts identify housing affordability as the No. 1 impediment to economic growth in northern Michigan
means or on-paper qualifications to secure a home loan,” Coon says. “Our current goal is to help someone in every Michigan county, and we’ve currently helped people secure homeownership in 80 out of 83 counties. Last year we helped around 6,000 people become homebuyers with loans funded to the tune of $1 billion. That’s the most people we’ve helped in our agency’s 59 year history.”
Coon attributes the recent, widespread implementation of the program to Michigan legislators working with program managers and the governor to make changes that fit the times.
For example, legislation from 2009 had set a flat-rate cap on the program and limited applicants to homes priced up to $224,500.
Now the allowed purchase price is tied to a fluctuating index, keeping MI Home Loan competitive with private lenders. The program has also been updated to cover single-wide manufactured homes and to increase the acreage limit from two acres to five.
Learn about eligibility, housing education, and more at michigan.gov/mshda/pathwayto-housing/mi-home-loan.
The “Make Your Home in Northwest Michigan” Program At the local level, Traverse Connect, the area’s lead economic development organization, is also working to improve housing affordability.
Coon
Call
“The Grand Traverse region has proven successful in attracting working-age people. We are a bright spot for the state,” says Warren Call, president and CEO. “As we move through the 2026 election and into next year with a new governor, new state house, and senate leadership, there’s an opportunity to develop state-level policy that incorporates and supports our momentum. The Grand Traverse region can serve as a model for how the state overall can improve talent retention, attraction, and development.”
Call, who was joined in our discussion by Communications & Strategic Projects Manager Abby Baudry, explains how making housing more affordable is essential to attracting out-of-region talent and to ensuring young people who grow up in northwest Michigan can afford to live and work here when they graduate.
“Attracting talent to this region and ensuring local talent can afford to stay local is essential to economic growth,” Call says.
Enter Traverse Connect’s Make Your Home in Northwest Michigan program. Funded in part by the state’s Make MI Home program and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the initiative helps professionals relocating to or already working in the region put down roots
The program selected 10 recipients from 539 applicants to receive $5,000 in cash housing assistance. The applicants had to have either secured a local job offer or had to already be employed by local employers. In addition to the cash award, recipients received $1,500 in in-kind benefits including admission to local networking events and passes to arts and cultural experiences.
The program was a success, says Baudry, thanks in part to Traverse Connect’s efforts to put northwest Michigan on the map as more
than a tourist destination.
“The world knows a lot more about this area now,” Baudry says. “We use marketing tools to garner interest in northwest Michigan, then we create connective opportunities to introduce employees to employers. Once we’ve proven there’s interest in economic activity in the region, we put together programs that, with the help of the state and other partnerships, make it financially more feasible for folks to moveslash-stay here.”
Traverse Connect is looking to expand the program in the future and use it as a model.
“We constantly hear from employees and employers that housing is the number one barrier to economic development,” Call says. “So we’re showing a real proof of concept that when you simply make it easier for individuals to secure housing, you attract talented folks to the region, they add value to the workforce, and our region benefits from increased economic activity.”
HEAR IT FROM THE BENEFICIARIES
What do housing affordability efforts look like on the implementation side? We asked Traverse Connect to share brief feedback from two Make Your Home in Northwest Michigan program recipients, introduced to us as Anna P. and Mike S.
“This program has made my move to Northern Michigan everything and more,” Anna writes. “Less financial stressors, opportunities to broaden my network, [these] have been crucial to my transition. I’ve enjoyed my move more than anticipated due to the people and beautiful place that TC is.”
Mike says that the Make Your Home in Northwest Michigan program was essential in making his move to the region possible. “We couldn’t have moved up here otherwise without either accumulating debt or otherwise playing financial catch-up for months if not years.”
EVENT SCHEDULE
Opening Ceremony & Taste of Trout featuring Levi Britton, Wed
Flea Market, Thu-Sun
Skerbeck Family Carnival Midway, Thu-Sun
Trout Friday Concert with Tyler Gitchel
NWMI Fishing Club Portable Fishing Pond, Fri & Sat
Whispering Pines Animal Kingdom, Fri-Sun
Kids’ Fishing Contest, Sat
Troutzillafest XV Music Stage, Sat
Grand Royale Parade, Sat
Craft Show, Sat
Nat’l Trout Festival Bump-n-Run Derby, Sat
Fireworks Display, Sat
Car Show (includes Pizza Eating Contest), Sun AND MORE!
Coon Baudry
Four of the Biggest Housing Projects Coming Online in 2026
Communities and developers tackle northern Michigan’s housing gap
By Eric Cox
Northwestern Michigan is building on renewed vigor, community cooperation, and financial creativity as it tackles its large regional housing shortages.
According to Traverse City-based Housing North, a nonprofit focused on building, strengthening, and advocating for affordable, sustainable, and workforce housing, our region faces an overall housing gap of 31,267 (8,813 rental units, 22,455 for sale units) through 2027.
Housing North Director of Community Engagement Shelly Charron says the region’s largest rental gap by affordability level is for households earning up to 50 percent of the Area Median Household Income (AMHI), with an overall shortfall of 5,014 units, representing well over half of the region’s overall rental housing gap.
However, Charron stressed that while that demographic is the largest, housing shortfalls are present at all income levels.
“Seeing that there is a need across the income spectrum,” Charron says, “it is hard to say that one project is more important than another. It is important for our communities to provide housing options that are suited to all ages, lifestyles, and income levels. Any housing that meets the needs of the community is important.”
Though the need is great and communities are hustling to find solutions, a variety of
Scope: 50 units, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom townhome suites
Developer: Artemis Companies, a Grand Rapids-based real estate firm specializing in development and management, along with individuals Derek Coppess and Isaac Oswalt
Price Range: for workers earning up to 120 percent of Antrim County’s AMHI Status: Final stages of completion; applications are being accepted for leasing
A little outside town on Bellaire’s far west reaches, the Bellaire Lofts project has revitalized a brownfield area. The 50-unit development sits atop a 19-acre former gravel pit. A Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) grant for this project requires at least 50 percent of the 144 suites to be rented to residents at or below 65 percent of Antrim County’s AMHI for at least 15 years. The remaining units will be leased to residents at 66-120 percent of the AMHI. Rents will range from $825 for a single suite in a townhome to $2,400 for a full 2- to 3-bedroom, 3-bath townhome. The property qualified as eligible property under the Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act.
obstacles hinder housing development. Charron says rising construction costs, outdated zoning ordinances, and prohibitive land use regulations can frustrate development of diverse housing.
“For a project to be successful, a lot of pieces have to come together,” she explains. “Local units of government must put tools in place, such as Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) ordinances or Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts that help create lower rents or sales prices.”
She adds that “state financing programs, such as programs through Michigan State Housing Development Authority, provide critical financing or subsidies to help make projects viable and result in a developer being able to offer rents or sale prices that are within reach for those working in our communities.”
Charron tells us the process for producing new housing for all income levels is complex and requires cooperation and creativity to ensure resulting rental and sale prices align with community needs.
“It is usually the case that many of these [development tactics] have to be stacked together to make a project pencil out so that it is affordable to those who work and live in the community. Without this support, we would not be seeing the current level of progress that we are,” Charron concludes.
Here are four projects that are under construction or should be completed in 2026 that are helping close the housing gap in northern Michigan.
2. COTTAGES AT CORNING | FRANKFORT, BENZIE COUNTY
Ownership Project: Cottages at Corning, corner of 9th St. and Corning Ave., Frankfort
Scope: four 2-bedroom, cottage-style, single-family homes
Developer: Housing Trust of Benzie, a Frankfort-based nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and sustaining affordable, attainable housing for people who live and work in Benzie County
Purchase Price: 30 percent below appraisal
Status: Construction underway
Through a purchase agreement with Frankfort’s Family of Faith Nazarene Church, Housing Trust of Benzie acquired land for Cottages at Corning, the second of its four-unit housing initiatives designed to provide homes that households earning 60–120 percent of AMHI can afford.
Cottages at Corning follows the same model as its predecessor, Grove Place, HTB’s flagship ownership model near the intersection of M-22 and M-115 in Frankfort. Those four 3-bedroom, 2-bath units were priced 25 percent below appraisal value. Cottages at Corning, Frankfort’s first middle income housing construction in the last 15 years, is offering 2-bedroom units at 30 percent below appraisal price.
“We now know that each housing project will be individually priced,” the Housing Trust of Benzie website says. “But keeping our mission at the forefront is now a proven model that puts Benzie County families and communities first. Our model, where the land trust owns the land and leases it to homeowners, helps keep home ownership within reach.”
3. LOFTS AT LUMBER SQUARE | PETOSKEY, EMMET COUNTY
Rental Project: Lofts at Lumber Square, 900 Emmet St., Petoskey
Scope: 60-unit workforce housing project with 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments
Developer: Haan Development and Northern Homes Community Development Corporation with support from the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation, Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Michigan State Housing Development Authority
Price Range: Households earning 80-120 percent of the AMI Status: Currently leasing
Six years in the making, Petoskey’s $17 million Lofts at Lumber Square development aims to help alleviate the workforce housing shortage in Emmet County. The 60-unit community in Petoskey’s Old Town Emmet provides another housing option for local workers, individuals, and families. The building is designed to meet the needs of “missing middle” or middle-income community members.
Developers used over $4 million in donations to leverage grants and low-interest loans. In completing the project, a number of governments and organizations came to the table. Aside from the aforementioned, other partners included Emmet County, City of Petoskey, First Community Bank, and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
THE FLATS AT CARRIAGE COMMONS | TRAVERSE CITY, GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY
Rental Project: The Flats at Carriage Commons, 1371 Carriage View Ln., Traverse City
Scope: Multifaceted 50-acre complex on northeast corner of LaFranier and Hammond Roads in Garfield Township features five multi-family buildings with over 200 units; 87,000 square foot Bay Area Transportation Authority hub with operations center, maintenance/service facility, park-and-ride area, and parking garage; 15 single-family Habitat for Humanity homes; and a stand-alone childcare facility
Developer: Bay Area Transportation Authority and Traverse City Housing Commission
Price Range: Rental units at $680 and $820 per month, including all utilities
Status: Final stages of completion
Winding up soon, this one-of-a-kind, $90 million project addresses critical transportation and housing needs in Traverse City. Developers of the Flats at Carriage Commons hope their brainchild will be a model for other communities struggling with similar challenges.
Aside from its much-needed housing, the complex will also serve to alleviate downtown traffic congestion by offering a transportation hub for BATA buses connecting to various routes, as well as a park-and-ride facility with 40-car parking capacity. Residents of the 15 Habitat for Humanity houses and the 200 apartment units can take advantage of sidewalks and multi-uses paths that border the property. And as an added benefit, about 20 acres of nearby forested wetlands will be permanently preserved, keeping intact the headwaters of the Mitchell Creek.
ELECTRONIC WASTE RECYCLING DRIVE
Oryana Community Co-op and BARC are teaming up to help you recycle your old electronic devices and keep them out of landfills.
SATURDAY APRIL
AM - PM at Oryana West
SUNDAY APRIL
AM - PM at Oryana Tenth St.
For a list of acceptable items visit our website www.oryana.coop
PLEASE NO MONITORS, TV SCREENS, or PRINTERS
BOTANIC GARDEN AT HISTORIC BARNS PARK
Oryana Community Co-op and our friends at The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park are joining forces for a family-friendly Earth Day celebration! This is an outdoor event, so please dress for the weather.
For more event information visit our website www.oryana.coop
FOUR YEARS OF THE TRAVERSE CITY COMEDY FESTIVAL
By Ross Boissoneau
If laughter really is the best medicine, then doctors can take the weekend off come April 16-18. That’s when the Traverse City Comedy Festival returns with a bountiful slate of national and local comics.
CEO Ann Duke says the festival’s popularity has been increasing in the four years of its existence (it is unrelated to the former Traverse City Comedy Arts Festival). That’s true among comedians as well as audiences. Duke says the response from comics interested in performing in Traverse City continues to grow, and choosing who to include and who to suggest return again next year is a challenge.
“I don’t make all the decisions,” she’s quick to note. “There’s a panel of 10. We want to be above reproach.” She says there are no guarantees or grandfathering in someone because they were part of the festival in a previous year.
A dizzying number of comedians will be part of this year’s laughfest. Headliners include Megan Stalter, Sarah Sherman, Roy Wood Jr., Gary Gulman, and Joe DeVito. But wait, there’s more, from A (Nate Armbruster and Diego Attanasio) to Y (Andrew Yang and Chris Young), with 30 others in between
Duke says while men still dominate the comedy scene by a two to one ratio, women continue to make inroads. That’s reflected in the performers booked this year as well as nationally. “About one-third are women. That’s the balance in the industry,” she says.
Asked to pick her favorites, Duke demurs, instead highlighting virtually the entire lineup. “The level of talent is off the charts. Sarah and Meg have been on fire. Gary is brilliant. Roy we’ve been trying to get since the beginning” of the festival. “Joe DeVito we got for the weekend. Janelle Draper was at the Motor City Comedy Fest. She’s talented.”
Homegrown Talent
Duke, also a comic who has been known to amuse an audience herself, is quick to praise the local comedy scene. She believes it is important to support up-and-coming comics, wherever they are up and coming from. So open mic nights and shows by local
groups are part of the fun of the TC Comedy Fest as well.
This year’s festival will feature Traverse City comics in a returning local showcase called Kamikaze Comedy. Several improv and specialty shows will also be featured, including returning Traverse City groups Full Tilt Comedy and Good on Paper. The festival’s popular open mic and comedy karaoke events will also be back for an encore this year.
The hijinks and hilarity will take place at a variety of venues. In addition to the Traverse City Comedy Club on South Garfield, The Alluvion, Hotel Indigo, Right Brain Brewery, City Opera House, Park Place Hotel & Conference Center, and the Little Fleet will all host shows over the course of the festival.
Duke promises something to tickle everyone’s funny bone. “Comedy is enjoying a renaissance—there are more opportunities and clubs. The Michigan comedy scene is one of the strongest. There’s so much talent,” she says. This year’s lineup includes 19 comics from the Great Lakes State among the 34 performers listed.
The Traverse City Comedy Fest has also introduced a charitable partner for this year’s festival. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Women’s Resource Center, the Traverse City-based nonprofit working to protect, shelter, and empower all people impacted by domestic and sexual violence.
Duke says it’s all about giving back. “Traverse City has given so much to the festival.”
Meet a Comedian: Joe DeVito
Joe DeVito will be onstage at the Traverse City Comedy Club 8:30pm both Friday and Saturday. The Long Islandbased comic is known for his observational humor and dry, sardonic delivery, as well as a self-deprecating wit. He’s a regular panelist on FOX’s Gutfeld!, where he’s a contributing writer. He’s appeared in clubs across the country, as well as other TV shows and festivals.
DeVito started performing standup while working as an advertising writer. He amused his coworkers and customers, who suggested he try standup—reportedly so they could get some work done.
So he gave it a whirl, and found out he
enjoyed it. But it wasn’t until he was laid off that he made the jump into comedy fulltime. “People said, ‘I always knew you’d do something like this.’ A friend signed me up for a comedy class. I backed my way into it in my 30s.”
In 2006, he appeared at Canada’s prestigious Just for Laughs Festival. That appearance jump-started his career, earning him a spot on the NBC prime time show Last Comic Standing the next year. Since then he has performed at clubs around the country and has appeared on The Late Late Show, Comics Unleashed, AXS-TV’s Gotham Comedy Live, and was a semifinalist on season five of Last Comic Standing.
“When you first start, you start to think what’s funny. That’s not the way” to do it, he says. It’s up to you to discover what it is about your world, your observations of what’s around you. “You have to talk about your life,” he says. “You have to do it for yourself and do it your way.”
Asked about shows where he was particularly successful, he turns his response in the opposite direction. “The thing with comedians is they want to tell stories of their worst possible show. Nobody wants to hear how well you’re doing,” DeVito says.
For example? “My collar was sticking up,” he says of his time on The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson. He discovered that fact partway through his performance and tried to discreetly adjust it while in front of a studio audience and a television audience
of millions. What could have been a triumph he thought of as mortifying, no matter how good it was for the audience.
DeVito said it’s also important never to judge an audience. Sometimes those that don’t provide a lot of laughs or positive feedback will approach him after a show and tell him how much fun they had. He also recalls playing a show once in New York City for two people. The three of them had a great time.
Two’s the minimum though. “If it’s just one, you’re just bothering some guy,” he says drily. So what is it about comedy that attracts people? DeVito says for him it’s the immediate feedback. “Standup is one of the purest [performing arts]. You know right away” if you’ve succeeded.
And if you haven’t, move right on. “When it doesn’t, what do you do?” DeVito asks rhetorically. When that happens, he takes encouragement from an unlikely source. “Connor McGregor says he never loses. You either win or learn. If I had a show that didn’t work, I evaluate. It’s all good.”
He enjoys playing festivals where there are a number of different comics performing in a variety of styles. “There are so many ways to be funny,” he said. “There’s something for every palate.”
And for the Traverse City festival? “It’s gonna be a good time.”
For more information, including a complete schedule and tickets, go to TraverseCityComedyFest.com.
Comics galore promise laughs aplenty
DeVito
Duke
YOUR SPRING 2026 RACE CALENDAR
30+ races in northern Michigan
By Northern Express Staff & Contributors
The moment the snow melts and the plows are (hopefully) put away for the season, it’s time to hit the trails. Put a little spring in your step with these races for runners, bikers, paddlers, and walkers happening in April, May, and June Up North.
>> APRIL <<
SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2026
Mari Vineyards Wine Run 5K Mari Vineyards, TC winerun5k.com/2025/11/06/mari-vineyards-wine-run-5k
SATURDAY, APRIL 18, 2026
11th Annual NMC Hero Race: 1 Mile, 5K, 10K NMC Main Campus – Outside the Timothy J Nelson Innovation Center, TC nmcherorace.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2026
Wood Memorial Trout Run; 5K, 10K, 1M Kalkaska High School Track & Football Stadium runsignup.com/Race/MI/Kalkaska/WoodMemorialTroutRun
>> MAY <<
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2026
Interlochen Run for the Arts 5K Interlochen Center for the Arts Campus interlochen.org/events/interlochen-run-for-arts-5k-2026-05-02
Rainbow Run – 4M Hull Park, TC runsignup.com/Race/Events/MI/TraverseCity/TraverseCityRainbowRun
SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 2026
Michigan Mountain Mayhem: 50K, 100K, 160K, 200K Near backside of Boyne Mountain michiganmountainmayhem.com/mmmspringclassic
SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 2026
Lumberjack 100 – 100M Mountain Bike Race: FULL Manistee National Forest & Big-M Ski Area lumberjack100.com
Mud, Sweat & Beers is held May 2, 2026, at Mt. Holiday in Traverse City.
Saturday
COMMUNITY SEED SWAP:
10am-noon, Boardman River Nature Center, TC. Bring your garden seeds—any vegetables, fruits, or flowers that you enjoy growing & plan to leave with seeds & plans for your 2026 garden. Register. Free. natureiscalling.org/events
EAST JORDAN LION’S CLUB EASTER FUN & GAMES: 10-11:30am, East Jordan Elementary School Gym. Special drawings for school age children - ages 5–12. All ages can play the games. Visit the Easter Bunny!
EASTER EGG HUNT & CRAFT SHOW: 10am, Platte River Association, Honor. The Easter Bunny will be at this event for a photo opportunity for families. There will be hundreds of eggs to find so bring your basket. hayowentha.org
EASTER EGG HUNT - FRANKFORT: 10am, Mineral Springs Park, Frankfort. For ages 1-12. Bring your own basket or bag. Over 5,000 Easter eggs to find. Also visit the Easter Bunny & enjoy crafts & bubbles.
FREE PICTURES WITH THE EASTER BUNNY: 10am-5pm, Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts, Petoskey. grandpashorters.com
CHARLEVOIX EASTER EGG HUNT: 11am, East Park, downtown Charlevoix. Age groups are 0-5 & 6-10. business.charlevoix. org/events/details/easter-egg-hunt-14849
FAIRGROUNDS EGG SCRAMBLE: 11am, Emmet County Fairgrounds, Community Building, Petoskey. Bring your own basket. 231-348-5479.
PROTEST ISRAEL’S GENOCIDE AGAINST PALESTINE: 11am, Grandview Parkway + Union St., TC. Israel continues committing brutal genocide in Gaza & stealing more Palestinian land in the West Bank. Elected leaders are owned by Israel as the Epstein files show. It’s up to ordinary people to insist on justice. Stand together every Sat. mideastjustpeace.net
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“SLEEPING BEAR FROM BELOW”: Empire Twp. Hall. Experience the wonders of the Great Lakes in this immersive film from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is projected inside an inflatable dome, offering a unique 360 degree view. It will be shown intermittently between 11am-2pm. 231.326.5361. Free. glenlakelibrary.net
SPRING BREAK AT THE MUSEUM: Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC, March 27 - April 4. Visit the museum for a Spring Break adventure for the whole family! Kids are free this week with accompanying adults. Turn it in to receive a prize! All children under 15 must be accompanied by at least one adult. simpletix.com/e/spring-break-at-the-museumtickets-249525 -
EASTER HOP: 11:30am-2pm, Pavilion on Court, downtown Gaylord. Featuring an Easter egg hunt for various age groups, the Easter Bunny, games & prizes. gaylordchamber.com/ events/details/easter-hop-13388
BOWLING DOWN MAIN STREET: Noon2pm, intersection of State & Main streets, Harbor Springs. Main St. will be closed between noon & 2pm for bowling! There will also be free hot chocolate & donuts for kids at Johan’s, & Rocking Horse Toy Co. will be giving away a freebie. Northern Lights Recreation will give away a free bowling card to all participants. harborspringschamber.com
FIFTH ANNUAL DISTRICT WIDE EASTER EGG HUNT: 12:45pm, M22 Glen Arbor. Hosted by the Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District. The afternoon will be full of Easter activities with spring drink specials & Peep s’mores by the fires. The event will kick off with the Easter Bunny arriving via kayak on the Crystal River. Then hop over to the Wine Patio for pictures & fun. The Easter Egg Hunt begins at 2pm. Free. crystalriveroutfitters.com
BENZONIA EASTER EGG HUNT: 1pm, Memorial Park, Benzonia. Meet the Easter Bunny! clcba.org/event/easter-egg-hunt
CULTIVATING LIGHT, INNER PEACE & JOY: 4pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Facilitated by Crystal Woodward-Turner of Karasi Fitness and Healing Arts, this is a calming & restorative yoga. All levels welcome. Bring a mat, water, towel, & wear comfortable clothing. There will be limited mats available to use as well. Please register: karasifitnessandhealingarts.com. Free. tadl. org/event/karasi-yoga-program-30973
BLISSFEST TRADITIONAL COMMUNITY
DANCE: 7:30pm, Littlefield/Alanson Community Building, Alanson. Music provided by Purple Martins, with Cynthia Donahey calling. All dances taught (circles, contras, squares & more). No need to bring a partner. Potluck at 6:30pm. Bring table service & a dish to pass. $10/person, $5/ student, 12 & under free. blissfest.org
BOHEMIAN QUEEN: 9-10:30pm, Little River Casino Resort, Manistee. This Queen tribute comprises Los Angeles’s finest players & voices, coming together to bring to life a classic catalog of songs & melodies & to deliver the same level of detailed showmanship that has dazzled arenas & stadiums. Featuring vocalist Paulie Z who channels the soaring vocal power of Freddie Mercury. $20. lrcr.com/ event/bohemian-queen
Monday
BE WELL TRAVERSE CITY
SENIOR EXPO: 10am-1pm, NMC, The Hagerty Center, TC. Connect with dozens of local organizations dedicated to helping seniors & their families in TC & surrounding communities. Meet with experts regarding Medicare Coverage, Assisted Living, Mobility Solutions, Independent Living, Veterans Benefits, Health Insurance, Home Care, Medical Equipment, Hospice Care, etc. Free. seniorexpousa.com/expos/michigan/2026be-well-traverse-city-senior-expo
BRIGHTLETICS/AGELESS GRACE CHAIR
EXERCISE: 10am, Senior Center, TC. Brightletics founder Lisa George facilitates seated brain/body fitness classes featuring Ageless Grace. Register on site or online. $5. gtcountymi.gov/2165/FitnessExercise
BRIGHTLETICS/AGELESS GRACE
PARKINSON’S EDITION: 11am, Senior Center, TC. Brightletics founder Lisa George facilitates a Parkinson’s edition of seated brain/ body fitness classes featuring Ageless Grace. Free. gtcountymi.gov/2165/FitnessExercise
THE COOKBOOK DINNER SERIES: “ZAYTINYA” BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS: amical, TC, April 6-12. This book is a vibrant celebration of the Eastern Mediterranean’s shared flavors & traditions. amical.com/zaytinya
PHOTO ORGANIZATION MADE SIMPLE: 6pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire
Art Fair Fun brings one-of-a-kind works of art in all styles and media to Art in the Castle at Castle Farms, Charlevoix, April 11-12. Pictured is Marc VandenBerg’s glass, just one of the many unique masterpieces you can’t find on Amazon or in any big-box store. Held in a storybook setting, stop by Castle Farms on Sat. between 10am-5pm, or Sun., 11am-4pm. artfairfun.com/art-in-the-castle.html
Community Room, TC. An organizational workshop to help you better manage your digital & physical photos, presented by Jamie Howe of Howe Organization. Jamie will provide practical strategies to help you preserve your memories while reducing digital clutter & protecting important photographs. Free. tadl.org/event/photoorganization-30436
AUDITION: AN INSPECTOR CALLS: 6:30pm, Traverse Area District Library, Thirlby Room, TC. Glen Arbor Players will audition for a Reader’s Theater play: “An Inspector Calls.” Roles for 4 men & 3 women. No memorization required. Contact Teddy House for info or a digital script: Teddyh@ centurytel.net. Free. GlenArborPlayers.org
Tuesday
SPRING PEEPERS: LIFE UNDER A LOG: 10am, Boardman River Nature Center, TC. Uncover the busy lives of creatures living under logs & why they play such an important role in nature. This is an adult-accompanied program for ages 3-5. Takes place entirely outdoors. $5/child per session; cash only. natureiscalling. org/preschool-peepers-program
TECH TUESDAY: PASSWORD RECOVER: 2pm, Suttons Bay Bingham District Library, lower level Community Meeting Room. Passwords are supposed to keep other people out, not you! Join to learn all the things you may be asked to do to recover your password, how to do this, & how to set a secure password you can remember. Free. sbbdl.org
Room. A five-part community conversation series focused on disability, accessibility & equity. This month’s conversation is “Activism, Resistance & Resilience.” RSVP on web site. lelandlibrary.org
THE COOKBOOK DINNER SERIES: “ZAYTINYA” BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS: (See Mon., April 6)
MEET THE PRIMARY CANDIDATES: 6-7:30pm, Carnegie Building, Petoskey. 1st Congressional District Candidate Forum. Featuring Wayne Stiles-D, Justin Michal-R, Zebulon Featherley-I, & Kyle Blomquist-D. actionnetwork.org/events/first-congressionaldistrict-mi-01-meet-the-candidates-forum
AUDITIONS FOR “AN INSPECTOR CALLS”: (See Mon., April 6)
WING WATCHERS: 6:30pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Welcome birdwatchers! Enjoy the film, “Hunters of the Sky.” Free.
SPRING WILDFLOWERS: 7pm, Glen Lake Community Library, Empire. Learn about native spring flowers in this presentation by Empire resident & amateur naturalist Martina Dorn. She’ll highlight species common to northern Michigan, providing insights into their unique characteristics & preferred habitats. glenlakelibrary.net
MONTHLY MOVIE CLUB: “PURPLE RAIN”: 7:30pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort. Free. gardentheater.org/comingsoon
Wednesday SUPPORTING LEELANAU’S YOUNGEST RESIDENTS: WHAT’S AVAILABLE, ON THE
Photo by Mark VandenBerg.
WAY & ENVISIONED: Noon, Leelanau County Government Center, Suttons Bay. Presented by The League of Women Voters of Leelanau County. Speakers include Parenting Communities Supervisor Hannah Grinage; Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department’s Director of Personal Health Michelle Klein; Hon. St. Senator John Damoose; & Hon. State Rep. Betsy Coffia. Free. lwvleelanau.org
COCKTAIL NIGHT BENEFITS CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER: 4pm, TC Whiskey Co. Featuring a special cocktail menu where Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center will receive 50% of the proceeds from every pour. Free entry. facebook.com/events/s/cocktailnight-at-tc-whiskey-c/1516094096796610 -
INDIE LENS POP-UP: THE TALLEST DWARF: 4pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. This film follows filmmaker Julie Wyman as she searches for her place in the little people community & unpacks dwarfism’s impact on her own family. Through intimate stories, creative collaborations, & archival history, the film delves into identity & medicine, asking whether society should change people or the structures that limit them. Free. simpletix.com/e/the-tallest-dwarf-an-indielens-pop-up-scr-tickets-247344
THE COOKBOOK DINNER SERIES: “ZAYTINYA” BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS: (See Mon., April 6)
GAYLORD BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: 5-7pm, Buffalo Wild Wings, Gaylord. Register. $5-$10. gaylordchamber.com
“THE NATURE OF PLACE”: AN EVENING WITH STEPHANIE MILLS & SETH BERNARD: 6pm, The GT Circuit, TC. Author & bioregionalist Stephanie Mills will present her 2025 Freshwater Summit keynote speech “Starting from and Staying with the Nature of Place.” Sponsored by Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation, donations support local non-profit Title Track, founded by activist & musician Seth Bernard. facebook.com/share/ p/17mchyLNJM -
WILD WEDNESDAY: VERNAL POOLS: 6:30pm, Charlevoix Public Library. Join Little Traverse Conservancy in learning about vernal pools & what they provide to our ecosystems for a short period each spring. Register. landtrust.org
GREAT LAKES CINEMA SERIES: EMPIRE RECORDS: 7pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. A spirited snapshot of one unforgettable day inside an independent record store, packed with music, humor, & heart. $5 all seats. greatlakescfa.org/events/ detail/empire-records
PARUL KAPUR IN CONVERSATION WITH DOUG STANTON: 7pm, The Alluvion, TC. Friends of the National Writers Series are invited to this event held in partnership with Interlochen Center for the Arts. Author Parul Kapur will be presented with the Pattis Family Foundation Creative Arts Book Award, & a $25,000 check for her novel, “Inside the Mirror.” Doors open at 6:15pm with appetizers & refreshments. Free. interlochen.org/events/parul-kapurin-conversation-doug-stanton-2026-04-08
WEEKDAY WOODCOCK WALK: 8pm, Sally and Art Hailand, Jr. Nature Preserve, Harbor Springs. Join Brad Von Blon in experiencing the unique “sky dance” mating ritual performed by woodcock each spring. Meet at the Sally and Art Hailand, Jr. Nature Preserve parking area. Register. landtrust.org
Thursday
BRIGHTLETICS/
AGELESS GRACE
CHAIR EXERCISE AT TADL: 10am, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Brightletics founder Lisa George facilitates seated brain/body fitness classes featuring Ageless Grace. Free. tadl. org/events/upcoming
COFFEE @ TEN, PETOSKEY: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Gilbert Gallery, Petoskey. Art in a Bottle: The Art, Collaboration, & Creative Process Behind Beer & Cider Labels. Featuring Eeva Redmond, creative director & co-founder of Elder Piper Beer & Cider. Free. crookedtree. org/events-and-exhibitions/events/?page=1 &location=petoskey#class-list
SMART MONEY: MI KIDS READ: 3:30pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. PCL partners with TBA Credit Union for a fun story hour on early financial smarts. Free books!
“THE HISTORY OF CHURCH IN BENZIE COUNTY”: 4pm, Mills Community House, upper level, Benzonia. Rev. Dinah Haag will tell you what Morgan School and Church, Benzie Area Christian Neighbors, & the Congregational and Christian Assemblies have in common. Recommended donation: $5. benziemuseum.org
THE COOKBOOK DINNER SERIES: “ZAYTINYA” BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS: (See Mon., April 6)
EVERYONE HAS A STORY: STORYTELLING COMMUNITY CIRCLE: 5:30-7pm, Kingsley Branch Library. Join The Kingsley Folk School for a relaxed, no-prep storytelling community circle, Everyone Has a Story. Share real moments from your life, told to connect, laugh, reflect. Held the 2nd Thurs. of every month. Free. tadl.org/event/ everyone-has-story-28438
COMMUNITY SCREENING OF “THE LIBRARY THAT DOLLY BUILT”: 7pm, Elk Rapids Cinema. Doors open at 6pm. The film shows Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a project which provides free books to children. Free.
GITS & SHIGGLES 8 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
SHOW: 7-9pm, AuSable Artisan Village “Gallery Stage,” Grayling. Enjoy “whose line is it anyway” type improv. Lots of laughter with audience participation. Ages 13+. Free. artisanvillage.org/events
Friday
TUESDAY MARCH 31 WE WILL NOT
PANEL DISCUSSION WITH WOMEN ARTISTS RESPONDING TO PROJECT 2025 • 7 PM
FRIDAY APRIL 17 TC COMEDY FEST IMPROV STAGE
FULL TILT COMEDY • 4:30 PM THAT THING YOU PULL WHEN YOU WANT IT TO STOP • 6:00 PM
PLANET ANT • 7:00 PM
GOOD ON PAPER • 8:30 PM
FRIDAY APRIL 24
MEET THE ARTISTS AND ELDERS OF CROSSHATCH CENTER FOR ART & ECOLOGY’S POP-UP ARTIST RESIDENCY • 5 PM
FRI–SUN MAY 1–3 FRESH COAST FILM
FESTIVAL TC
TOO MUCH TO LIST! THREE DAYS OF FEATURE DOCUMENTARIES, SHORTS, PANELS AND MORE.
SAT APRIL 25 • RIVEREYE ALBUM RELEASE BY MAX LOCKWOOD • 7:30 PM
FRIENDS OF THE ALDEN DISTRICT LIBRARY BOOK
SALE: 9am-5pm, Helena Twp. Community Center, Alden. Books, audio books, DVDs, music CDs & puzzles. 231-331-4318.
BRIGHTLETICS/AGELESS GRACE CHAIR
EXERCISE: 10am, Senior Center, TC. Brightletics founder Lisa George facilitates seated brain/body fitness classes featuring Ageless Grace. Register on site or online. $5. gtcountymi.gov/2165/FitnessExercise
MUSICAL STORYTIME WITH THE TC
PHIL - FEATURING FRENCH HORN WITH NATHAN FISH!: 11am, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Join members of the TC Philharmonic for an instrument petting zoo, story reading, movement & crafts. Recommended for ages 7 & under. Free. facebook.com/events/637063836131330 apr 10
FRI MAY 22 • “PRINE TIME,” A TRIBUTE TO JOHN PRINE LED BY MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST MARK LAVENGOOD • 7:30
FRI MAY 29 • BRANDON FITZPATRICK & JORDAN HAMILTON DOUBLE BILL • 7:30
SAT MAY 30 • “FOLKROOM” WITH EMILEE PETERSMARK, LOREN JOHNSON, AND I.AM.JAMES. • 7:30
THE COOKBOOK DINNER SERIES: “ZAYTINYA” BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS: (See Mon., April 6) -
FRIENDS OF THE TRAVERSE AREA DISTRICT LIBRARY SPRING BOOK SALE: 5:30-8pm, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Fri., April 10, 5:30-8pm: Members Only Pre-Sale (membership sign-up available at door). Sat., April 11, 9am-6pm: Sale open to public. Members receive 50% off! Sun., April 12, noon-4:30pm: All Day Fill a Bag for $5. tadl.org/friends -
MICHIGAN SAUNA FEST: Clinch Park Marina, Downtown Waterfront, TC, April 10-12. Tonight is Opening Night: Evening kick-off event open to sauna hosts, select volunteers, & VIP weekend pass holders. michigansaunafest.com
ANDREW DOST’S BIRTHDAY BASH W/ METAL BUBBLE TRIO + LITTLE DIPPER: 7pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort. A little bit country & a little bit rock & roll. $27. gardentheater.org/comingsoon
DMC CONCERT: THORNETTA DAVIS: 7pm, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. 2025 Blues Music Award Winner Thornetta Davis was crowned Detroit’s Queen of the Blues in 2015 by the Detroit Blues Society. She is an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, & independent recording artist. $25-$35. dennosmuseum.org/events/milliken
JEFF HAAS MUSIC PRESENTS SHEELA BRINGI & ELDEN KELLY WSG NABIN SHRESTHA: 7:30-9:30pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Theater, Petoskey. Enjoy a concert weaving rāga‑inspired melodies, Indian folk traditions, & the improvisational spirit of jazz. $30-$35. crookedtree.org/ events-and-exhibitions/events/?page=1&loc ation=petoskey#class-list
MUSE: 7:30pm, The Alluvion, TC. This program celebrates the deep connections between music & other art forms. It features Dana Wilson’s Musings for horn & piano, a work that gives voice to each of the nine Greek muses through expressive musical movements & poetic readings, brought to life by Laura Mittelstaedt. There will also be works by Franz Liszt & Robert Schumann, alongside the world premiere of a new composition by Interlochen faculty member Cynthia Van Maanen. $28. interlochen.org/ events/muse-2026-04-10
SPRING DANCE PERFORMANCE: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. The Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division brings you a wide variety of classical & contemporary dance works including ballet excerpts, modern masterpieces, & student- & faculty-choreographed works. $14-$17. interlochen.org/events/spring-danceperformance-2026-04-10
Saturday
“1,000 BURGER CHALLENGE” TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER
BATTLING CANCER: Oakwood Proper Burgers, TC. Oakwood Proper Burgers wants to sell 1,000 burgers to benefit Tim Bergstrom, owner of Bergstrom’s Burgers, who is currently undergoing intensive cancer treatments. This event runs from 8am10pm. If you can’t attend in person, gift cards are available to purchase that will contribute to the goal.
“SHRED THE STIGMA” MENTAL HEALTH WEEKEND: 8:45am, Boyne Mountain Resort, Boyne Falls. Hosted by Surf the Earth MHC, this event combines winter sports, wellness activities, & mental health awareness programming to foster community connection & break down barriers surrounding mental health conversations. This year’s theme is Many Tracks to Wellness, highlighting the paths, both on & off the hill, that we can take to better equip ourselves to curb stigma around mental health. Today includes morning yoga & sound bath, mental wellness workshops, interactive music experience, equine therapy, “Laps for Ali” group skiing event, guided nature walk & more. All workshops, activities, & food offerings are free with registration. Fees apply to lift tickets, ski passes, Sky Bridge entrance, & Happy’s Taco Truck. Register online. surftheearthmhc.com/shred-thestigma-2026
FRIENDS OF THE ALDEN DISTRICT LIBRARY BOOK SALE: 9am-2pm, Helena Twp. Community Center, Alden. Books, audio books, DVDs, music CDs & puzzles. 231-331-4318.
FRIENDS OF THE TRAVERSE AREA DISTRICT LIBRARY SPRING BOOK SALE: (See Fri., April 10)
MICHIGAN SAUNA FEST: Clinch Park Marina, Downtown Waterfront, TC, April 10-12. Today is open to the public from 9am-9pm. Features a community cold plunge, open community sauna blocks, social games, entertainment, & evening live music. See web site to reserve your block. $40 per sauna block. michigansaunafest.com
APRIL EARLY CHILDHOOD FREE FAMILY FUN DAYS: 1 0am-2pm, YMCA Hayo-Went-Ha Arbutus Camp, TC. Arts & crafts, free giveaways every 15 minutes, & interactive storytelling & music with Jen Strauss & Miriam Pico beginning at 10:15am. A free lunch will be provided from 11:15am-12:15pm. Local organizations & service agencies will be on site to share info about youth programming & family resources. For more info, email: ldake@ NorthwestEd.org. Free; please donate a non-perishable food item.
ART IN THE CASTLE: 10am-5pm, Castle Farms, Charlevoix. Step into a storybook & discover your next masterpiece. Explore a treasure trove of original works: from paintings & wooden sculptures to handthrown ceramics & wearable art. $5. artinthecastle.org
ELK RAPIDS EASTER EGG HUNT: 10amnoon, Cherryland Middle School, Elk Rapids. Age Group 0-5: 10am. Age Group 6-11: 11am.
LITTLE WAVES CHILDREN’S MUSIC PROGRAM: Designed for curious minds aged 4 to 10, this program invites young explorers to discover the wonders of music & instruments in a relaxed & informal setting. Hosted by the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra the second Sat. of the month. Takes place at Petoskey District Library at 10:30am, & then at Charlevoix Public Library at 1pm. Free. glcorchestra.org
FOL AUTHOR PROGRAM: PAMELA
WITHROW: 11am, Cadillac Wexford Public Library, Community Room, Cadillac. Pamela is an author & former prison warden who will discuss her book, “Madam Warden: A Memoir of the First Woman in Michigan to Head a Prison for Men.” Free. friendsofthecadillaclibrary.wordpress.com/ upcoming-programs
PROTEST ISRAEL’S GENOCIDE AGAINST PALESTINE: (See Sat., April 4)
SLOW ART DAY: 11am, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. A global celebration of unhurried looking. Visitors of all ages can slow down, settle in, & spend meaningful time with selected artworks across the galleries. Throughout the museum, you’ll find gentle slow-looking prompts to guide your experience, along with an art-inspired music playlist. $0-$10. simpletix.com/e/ slow-art-day-tickets-249347
COMMUNITY OPEN SHIP 2026: 1-4pm, Great Lakes Maritime Academy, TC. Self guided tours will be assisted by current cadets & crew. Closed toe shoes are required. Free.
FAST FIVE SKATE: 1pm, K1 Speed, TC. TC Roller Derby will host a skating racing event. Create a team of 5 & skate for best combined time on a K1 Speed racetrack for a chance to win $1,500. Sign up through website. $40 to skate; $5 to watch. tcrollerderby.com/events-2-1/fast-fiveskate-at-k1-speed
SPRING DANCE PERFORMANCE: ACCESSIBILITY PERFORMANCE: 2pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. The Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division brings you a wide variety of classical & contemporary dance works including ballet excerpts, modern masterpieces, & student- & facultychoreographed works. Free. interlochen. org/events/spring-dance-performanceaccessibility-performance-2026-04-11
THE COOKBOOK DINNER SERIES: “ZAYTINYA” BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS: (See Mon., April 6)
ILLUSIONIST LEON ETIENNE - MAGIC ROCKS!: 7pm, City Opera House, TC. See some of the world’s best illusions, award winning sleight of hand, & hilarious comedy. Leon has been featured on “America’s Got Talent,” “Masters of Illusion,” & “Penn & Teller: Fool Us!”. $15-$75. cityoperahouse. org/events
BACKSTAGE PASS: 7:30pm, TC Philharmonic Center, MSUFCU Desk Drawer Foundation Hall. An hour of music with the full Traverse City Philharmonic orchestra, behind-the-scenes stories, & straight talk from Maestro Kevin Rhodes. $10; a drink included. tcphil.org/events/ backstage-pass-april-11
SPRING DANCE PERFORMANCE: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. The Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division brings you a wide variety of classical & contemporary dance works including ballet excerpts, modern masterpieces, & student- & faculty-choreographed works. $14-$17. interlochen.org/events/spring-danceperformance-2026-04-10
EVERCLEAR: 8pm, Leelanau Sands Casino Showroom, Peshawbestown. Led by founder, vocalist & guitarist Art Alexakis, alternative rock band Everclear rose to fame in the ‘90s with chart topping hits like “Santa Monica,” “Father of Mine,” & “I will buy You a New Life.” Tickets start at $65. leelanausandscasino.com/events
WEEKEND WOODCOCK WALK: 8pm, Sally and Art Hailand, Jr. Nature Preserve, Harbor Springs. Join Brad Von Blon in experiencing the unique “sky dance” mating ritual performed by woodcock each spring. Meet at the Sally and Art Hailand, Jr. Nature Preserve parking area. Register. landtrust.org
sunday
MARI VINEYARDS WINE
RUN 5K: Mari Vineyards, TC. Start times are available at both 8:30am & 10:30am. $25-$35. runsignup.com/Race/ Register/?raceId=155551
“SHRED THE STIGMA” MENTAL HEALTH WEEKEND: 8:45am, Boyne Mountain Resort, Boyne Falls. Hosted by Surf the Earth MHC, this event combines winter sports, wellness activities, & mental health awareness programming to foster community connection & break down barriers surrounding mental health conversations. This year’s theme is Many Tracks to Wellness, highlighting the paths, both on & off the hill, that we can take to better equip ourselves to curb stigma around mental health. Today includes suicide prevention training, banked slalom competition, Sky Bridge walk, art activity, free giveaways & more. All workshops, activities, & food offerings are free with registration. Fees apply to lift tickets, ski passes, Sky Bridge entrance, & Happy’s Taco Truck. Register online. surftheearthmhc.com/events
MICHIGAN SAUNA FEST: Clinch Park Marina, Downtown Waterfront, TC, April 1012. Today is half day & open to the public from 9am-3pm. Featuring a community cold plunge, open community sauna blocks, & social events. See web site to reserve your sauna block. $40 per sauna block. michigansaunafest.com
ART IN THE CASTLE: 11am-4pm, Castle Farms, Charlevoix. Step into a storybook & discover your next masterpiece. Explore a treasure trove of original works: from paintings & wooden sculptures to handthrown ceramics & wearable art. $5. artinthecastle.org
FREE FORMULA 1 WATCH PARTIES: BAHRAIN: 11am, The Bay Community Theatre, Suttons Bay. Experience the thrilling races on the big screen! Featuring new changes, including Formula 1 games. Doors open an hour before the start of each race. thebaytheatre.org
FRIENDS OF THE TRAVERSE AREA DISTRICT LIBRARY SPRING BOOK SALE: (See Fri., April 10)
YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS - PAGE 2 STAGE: 1:30pm, City Opera House, TC. See youthcreated, thought provoking plays performed live. Free. cityoperahouse.org
ILLUSTRATED HISTORY OF THE SOO LOCKS: 2pm, Helena Twp. Community Center, Alden. A deep dive into the history of the Soo Locks with Chief Park Ranger Michelle Briggs. This presentation uses historic photos dating back to the 1860s to review the construction of the eight U.S. locks built on the St. Mary’s River & puts them into the context of world & U.S. events. 231-331-4318. Free.
DVORAK NEW WORLD + BERNSTEIN: 3-5pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. The Traverse City Philharmonic brings Leonard Bernstein’s greatest orchestral achievement, Symphony No. 2: The Age of Anxiety, to life. “New World” symphony by Dvorak, written on his trip to the U.S., delights with its brilliance & familiarity to first-time concertgoers & veteran attendees with its blend of American folk music & European symphonic tradition. $27-$65. tcphil.org/ events/dvorak-bernstein
OF STRAIGHT LINES & SPIRALS: 3pm, The GT Circuit, TC. A spoken word memoir exploring themes of race, class & culture through the voice of a twelve year old white boy in metro Detroit in 1967. Traverse City storyteller Steven Holl will reprise this story, suitable for teens. Donations gratefully accepted.
YOUNCE GUITAR DUO : 3pm, The Music House, Williamsburg. An instrumental duo, Jerry Younce and his son Ryan perform acoustic improvisational music that is heavily influenced by jazz, gypsy guitar, flamenco & other world music, including Celtic & Latin rhythms. $25 online; $30 door. mynorthtickets.com/events/ the-music-house-is-proud-to-welcomethe-younce-guitar-duo-in-concert-onsunday-april-12-at-300pm-4-12-2026?_ gl=1*1v6u9h5*_gcl_au*MTg1NTI2MzI0NS 4xNzY3ODIzNTA5*_ga*MTM1
MADE IN MICHIGAN: 4pm, The Bay Community Theatre, Suttons Bay. Bay Theatre Film Series featuring Michigan Independent Filmmakers. Today features “Sunfish (& Other Stories on Green Lake).” $15. thebaytheatre.org
THE COOKBOOK DINNER SERIES: “ZAYTINYA” BY JOSÉ ANDRÉS: (See Mon., April 6)
ongoing
BELLAIRE WINTER FARMERS MARKET: Fridays, 9am-noon through May 8, ASI Community Center & Park, Bellaire. The Market will move outdoors on May 15. areaseniorsinc.org/event/bellaire-winterfarmers-market/2026-03-20
INDOOR FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays, 10am-2pm, The Village at GT Commons, The Mercato, TC. Browse the Mercato halls every Sat. through April. More than 30 vendors offer a variety of items from farm fresh eggs, meats & cheeses, to fruits, veggies, homemade breads & more. thevillagetc.com/events
WOW ON WEDNESDAYS: Petoskey District Library. Held every Weds. from 3:304:30pm. Featuring a new craft, taste-test, or simple challenge each week. Dropping in during the hour is okay. Ages 8-12. petoskey.librarycalendar.com/event/wowwednesday-8636
democratic institutions in America. On view through April 11. See web site for hours. thealluvion.org
ANNUAL YOUTH ARTS SHOW: Crooked Tree Arts Center, all Carnegie & Cornwell Galleries, TC. Celebrating the work of K-12 art students & educators from throughout the Grand Traverse region. Runs through April 11. See web site for hours. crookedtree.org/ events-and-exhibitions/exhibits/2026-youtharts-show-traverse-city.html
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, PETOSKEY:
- 2026 YOUTH ARTS SHOW, PETOSKEY: Held in Gilbert & Bonfield galleries. Featuring thousands of unique works of art created by area student artists. Runs through May 2. See web site for hours. crookedtree.org/ events-and-exhibitions/exhibits/2026-youtharts-show-petoskey.html
- OPEN STUDIO: Held in the Visual Arts Room, Saturdays, 10am-1pm. Free drop-in art studio for the whole family. New projects are offered weekly. crookedtree.org
DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC:
- NEW PERSPECTIVES: RECENT AQUISITIONS FROM THE DENNOS PERMANENT ART COLLECTION: Held in McFarlane Gallery through May 31. From new paintings & works on paper gifted through the Museum Exchange program to generous donations on behalf of museum members, friends, & NMC alumni, New Perspectives seeks to highlight convergent, as well as, divergent perspectives on contemporary art & collecting practices in the 21st century. See web site for hours. dennosmuseum.org
- TRILOBITE TREASURES : Runs through May. This exhibit presents Paleozoic creatures in a way that tells a story of the prehistoric life in the ancient seas. The collection, assembled over 35 years, provides a unique snapshot of life in the ancient seas from 250 to 500 million years ago. See web site for hours. dennosmuseum.org
- IMPRESSIONS OF AN ERA: PRINTS FROM THE DENISON MUSEUM COLLECTION: This selection of prints, created between 1970 & 1990 by nationally & internationally recognized contemporary artists, reflects two transformative decades in contemporary printmaking. Artists include Dee Shapiro, Barbara Kohl-Spiro, KUDO Muramasa & James Rizzi. Runs through May 31. See web site for hours. dennosmuseum.org
GLEN ARBOR ARTS CENTER:
DRAWN HERE: Higher Art Gallery, TC. An exhibit featuring selected works from student artists of Interlochen Arts Academy. Runs through April 10. See web site for hours. higherartgalleryonline.bigcartel. com/category/drawn-here-interlochen-artsacademy-student-art-exhibit
THE WORK OF ROCCO PISTO EXHIBIT: Charlevoix Circle of Arts. Runs through April 11. Modern Expressionism, spontaneity & abstraction in watercolor. See web site for hours. charlevoixcircle.org/classesworkshops
WE WILL NOT WHISPER: The Commongrounds Building & The Alluvion, TC. Alluvion Arts presents “We Will Not Whisper,” an exhibition featuring 19 female visual artists, collectively responding to the ongoing erosion of civil liberties &
- MEMBERS CREATE: This exhibition runs through May 28, featuring the work of 31 current GAAC members. It includes work in a wide range of media. See web site for hours. glenarborart.org
- SMALL ACCOMPLISHMENTS BY HARVEY GORDON: Held in the Lobby Gallery through April 23. Enjoy this exhibition of acrylic paintings. See web site for hours. GlenArborArt.org
OLIVER ART CENTER, FRANKFORT:
- BLOOM! A CELEBRATION OF SPRING : Work in all media by local & regional artists in celebration of spring. Runs through May 8. Open Tues. - Sat., 10am-4pm; Sun., noon-4pm; closed Mon. oliverart.org
- CONSTRUCTED: Showcasing works in wood, paper & fiber, featured artists will present furniture, textiles, paper assemblages, basketry, & more in both functional & decorative creations. Runs through April 18. Artist talk on April 18 at 2pm. Open Tues. - Sat., 10am-4pm, & Sun., noon-4pm. Closed Mon. oliverart.org
Deadline for Dates information is Tuesday for the following week.
APR 06 - APR 12
BY ROB BREZSNY
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Now is an excellent time to decide your favorite color is amaranth (a vivid red-violet), or sinopia (earthy red-orange), or viridian (cool blue-green, darker than jade). You might also conclude that your favorite aroma is agarwood (deep, smoky, resin-soaked wood), or heliotrope (cherryalmond vanilla), or petrichor (wet soil after a rain). I’m trying to tell you, Aries, that you’re primed to deeply enhance your detailed delight in smells, colors, tastes, feelings, physical sensations, types of wind, tones of voice, qualities of light—and everything else. Indulge in sensory and sensual pleasures!
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In medieval European gardens, there was a tradition of creating "pleasure labyrinths.” They were walking meditations that spiraled inward to a center, then back out again. There were no decisions and no wrong turns, just the relaxing, meditative journey itself. I think you need and deserve a metaphorical pleasure labyrinth right now, Leo. You've been treating every choice as a high-stakes dilemma and every path as potentially problematic. But what if the current phase isn't about making the perfect decision? Maybe it’s about trusting that the path you're on will take you where you need to go, even if it meanders. By cosmic decree, you are excused from second-guessing every turn.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your eye for imperfection is a gift until it becomes the lens through which you see everything. The critical faculty that drives you to refine and enhance may also shunt you into a dead end of neverbeing-good-enough, where impossible standards immobilize you. In the coming weeks, dear Virgo, I beg you to use your vaunted discernment primarily in the service of growth and pleasure rather than constraint. Be excited by buoyant analysis that empowers constructive change. Homework: For every flaw you identify, identify two things that are working well. You won’t ignore what needs attention, but instead will compensate for the excessive criticism that sometimes grips your inner critic.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): ): You Libras shouldn’t expend excessive effort trying to force the external world to be more tranquil. That’s mostly a futile task that distracts from your more essential work. The secret to your happiness is to cultivate serenity within. How do you do that? One reliable way to shed tension is to continually place yourself in the presence of beauty. Nothing makes you relax better than being surrounded by elegance, grace, and loveliness. Now is a good time to recommit yourself to this key practice.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In computer science, there's a concept called "graceful degradation." When a system encounters an error, it doesn't crash completely. It loses some functionality but keeps running with what remains. According to my reading of the astrological omens, Scorpio, you’d be wise to acknowledge a graceful degradation like that. Something isn't working as you had hoped and planned. A relationship? Project? Adventure? In classic Scorpio fashion, you're tempted to burn it all down. But I encourage you to practice graceful degradation instead. Keep what still works and release only what's actually broken. Not everything has to be all-or-nothing. You can lose some functionality and still run. You can be partially out of whack and still be valuable. PS: The awkwardness is temporary.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): At your best and brightest, you are a hunter—though not the kind who stalks prey with weapons and trophies in mind. Your hunt is noble: the fervent pursuit of adventures that nourish your curiosity and the brave forays you make into unfamiliar territories where intriguing new truths shimmer. And now, as the world drifts deeper into chaos, you are called to respond with even more exploratory audacity. invite you to further refine your hunter’s craft. Lift it up to an even higher, more luminous form of seeking.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn meditation teacher Wes Nisker guided his students to relax the relentless mental static that muddled their awareness. But he also understood that excessive striving can sabotage the peace we're seeking. I invoke his influence now to help you release some of the jittery
goal-obsession you’ve been gripped by. Nisker and I offer you permission to temporarily suspend the potentially exhausting drive to constantly be better and more accomplished. Instead, just for now, simply be your authentic self. Loosen your high-strung grip on self-improvement and allow yourself the radical luxury of purposelessness.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Here’s a danger you Aquarians are sometimes prey to: spending so much energy fixing the big picture that you neglect what’s up close and personal. You may get so involved in rearranging systems that immediate concerns get less than your best attention. I hope you won’t do that in the coming weeks. Your aptitude for overarching objectivity is a gift because it enables you to recognize patterns others can’t detect. But it may also divert you from the messy, intricate intimacy that gritty transformation requires. Your assignment: Eagerly attend to the details, which I bet will be more interesting than you imagine.
PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): In horticulture, "hardening off" is the process of gradually exposing seedlings started indoors to outdoor conditions before transplanting them. Too much exposure too fast will shock them; no exposure at all will leave them unprepared. Let’s invoke this as a useful metaphor for you. I believe you are being hardened off, Pisces. Life is making small, increasing demands on your tender self. Though this may sometimes feel uncomfortable, assure you that it's preparation, not cruelty. You're being readied for a shift from protected space to open ground. My advice is twofold: 1. Don't retreat back into the ultra-safe greenhouse. 2. Don't let yourself be thrown into full exposure all at once.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): My Taurus friend Elena keeps a "gratitude garden" in her backyard. When she feels grateful for a specific joy in her life, she writes it on biodegradable paper and buries it among her flowers, herbs, and vegetables. "I feed the earth with appreciation," she says. "Returning the gift." She feels this practice ensures that her garden and her life flourish. Her devoted attention to recognizing blessings attracts even more blessings. Her cultivated appreciation for beauty and abundance leads her to discover more beauty and abundance. Elena’s approach is pure Taurean genius. I invite you to create your own rituals for expressing your thankful love. Not just paying dutiful homage in your thoughts, but giving your appreciation weight, texture, and presence in the actual world.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Many of us periodically slip into the daydream that everything would finally feel right if only our lives were somehow different. If we’re single, maybe we imagine we ought to be partnered; if we’re partnered, we wish our beloved would change, or we secretly wonder about someone else entirely. That’s the snag. The blessing is this: In the days ahead, you’re likely to discover a surprising ease with your life exactly as it is, and feel a genuine, grounded peace. Congratulations in advance!
CANCER (June 21-July 22): A cautious voice in your head murmurs: “Proceed carefully. Don’t be overly impressed with your own beauty. Stick with dependable methods. Live up to expectations and avoid explorations into the unknown.” Your bold genius interrupts: “Tell that fussy, boring voice to shut up. The truth is that you have earned the right to be an inquisitive wanderer, an ingenious lover, a fanciful storyteller, and a laughing experimenter.”
“Jonesin”
Crosswords
"The Power of Three" buy
one, get two free.
by Matt Jones
ACROSS
1. Salad with bacon and eggs
5. Airport boarding site
9. Hairy like a lion
DOWN
1. Some physical media
2. Alley-___ (sports maneuver)
3. Actress/model Nielsen of "Rocky IV"
14. Explorer on TV
15. James Patterson sleuth Cross
16. "Superfudge" author Judy
17. Mic check you can feel in your vertebrae?
20. "Monster" of the southwest
21. Brisbane hoppers
22. "Ay, Dios ___!"
23. Plot surprise
25. British conservative
26. Hanukkah coins
27. Bird feature for Buster Poindexter?
30. Murals and mosaics, e.g.
31. Hive noise
32. Santa ___ winds
33. Conical shelters
36. Pastry coating for shine and color
40. Certain Wall St. trader
41. Progressive mascot
42. Letters on a "4" button
43. Grouch eating like Cookie Monster?
48. Stuck in ___
49. They get in a row
50. Basketball
51. "I Want Your ___" (George Michael hit)
52. Tight-fitting
53. Tiny marchers
54. Bottom-of-the-page section about a devilish number?
59. Festoon
60. At any point
61. Comedian Rudner
62. Toyota subcompact discontinued in the U.S.
63. Nautical beginner?
64. Phishing offer
4. Vote out at the Round Table, on "The Traitors"
5. Big party
6. Part of a PC-resetting combo
7. Restaurant with samovars
8. Ship abroad
9. Yale School of Management degs.
10. European peak
11. Pumpkin spice component
12. Folder fodder
13. Railroad terminal
18. Low voice
19. Radio Flyer, for instance
23. The one over there
24. Had on
25. Therefore
26. Sink teeth into
28. Where hip-hop originated
29. Activity suffix
34. Agreement
35. Distinct period
36. Shady tree
37. Without a strong opinion
38. Search for bargains
39. Telehealth company for men
41. Cancel, as a debt
43. Big name in frozen potatoes
44. Is really awful, in 1990s leet-speak
45. Ill feeling
46. "Yeesh!"
47. The "M" of GM
48. Evaluate
52. "Deadly" septet
53. Hairstyle for Questlove
55. ___ Lanka
56. Gen ___
57. Rideshare app stat
58. Battering item
Grand Traverse & Kalkaska
CHATEAU GRAND TRAVERSE
WINERY, TC
4-6:
4/4 -- Jeff Socia
4/11 -- Swingbone North
ENCORE 201, TC
4/4 & 4/10-11 -- DJ Ricky T, 9
IDENTITY BREWING CO., TC
4/7 -- TC Celtic, 6-8
4/9 -- Beyond Trivia!, 7-8:30
KILKENNY'S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE, TC 9:30:
4/3-4 -- The Off Beat Band 4/10-11 -- Galactic Sherpas
SNOWBELT BREWING CO., GAYLORD 6-9: 4/10 -- Melissa May & Brian
4/11 -- Seth Bernard & Jordan Hamilton
Thursday, April 9 6-8:30pm
Food and drink by Riverside
Come as you are, pay what you can
Coonan
2026 COAST GUARD AUXILIARY BOATER SAFETY CLASSES: sign up early for the 2026 coast guard auxiliary boater safety classes.......... TO VIEW CLASSES AND SIGN UP GO TO: traversecityflotilla.everbright.com ENJOY YOUR SUMMER
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AND CASUALTY:
Traverse City based Independent Insurance Agency seeking experienced Producer/ CSR with an interest in becoming a partner. Agency has good carrier line up. Generous commission split. Option to buy into agency once book reaches certain volume. Email introductory letter long with qualifications to traverseinsurancesuccess@gmail.com
SEWING, ALTERATIONS, MENDING & REPAIRS. Maple City, Maralene Roush 231228-6248
FREE WEEKLY ORIGINAL HOT YOGA COMMUNITY CLASS: EVERY WED. @ 7:30PM - 845 S. GARFIELD AVE. ORIGINALHOTYOGATC.COM 231-392-4798 Nightly, Weekly, Monthly Stays near TC!: “The
