I write today to comment on Mitch Distin’s recent article on our country’s political divide. I believe the societal malaise many of us experience today is a result of this divide and the associated feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
The Purple Assembly and Braver Angels are two prescriptions likely to help cure this malady. I believe Tip O’Neil’s phrase that “all politics is local” applies even in the age of social media, and The Purple Assembly and Sam Getsinger’s Common Ground project are great ways to engage in the cure. Braver Angels is holding a national convention in Philadelphia in June and that event will help carry the local energies to a larger stage.
Leaving ideology and politics aside for a bit is refreshing and may allow us to rebuild the connections that allow democracy to operate for the benefit of all of us. The increasing use of AI chatbots and the documented sycophancy they feed users call for an opening that organizations like Braver Angels have begun to provide. I’ve joined Braver Angels and look forward to helping enable the connectedness that we need.
Kevin Malone | Bellaire
Who Are We?
I appreciated Stephen Tuttle’s piece in the April 6 edition highlighting the recent No Kings rallies and all the reasons people turned out for the largest protest in U.S. history. I was disturbed, however, by his repeated use of the word “we” in describing some of the things people were protesting against.
“We” did not claim without proof that the boats and people destroyed in the Caribbean were carrying drugs. “We” did not start the war in Iran. “We” have not declared victory multiple times, and “we’ will not be the ones putting boots on the ground there, if that happens. These are all the actions of a deranged, psychotic, narcissistic president and his band of incompetent sycophants. As pointed out in the column, and evidenced by turnout at the rallies and the president’s plummeting approval rating, the majority of the American people are opposed to the actions of this administration.
“We” showed up in record numbers to show America a better way forward.
Dean Conners | Cedar
We are on the wrong track. Our country is clearly divided politically, but I think most Michiganders agree that we didn’t vote for higher prices or a foreign war. We agree that Congress isn’t doing its job. We want a president who is respectful and can be respected, even if we don’t agree with all the policies.
The recent article titled “Bridging the Political Divide” in Northern Express discusses how a common goal can help us stop political fighting and move forward together. We have two good opportunities to come together and make change happen.
First, tell Congressman Jack Bergman to stop any new funding of the war. Enough is enough. No extra $1.3 Trillion! Unbelievably, Republicans are considering cutting health care to find the extra funds. Second, we need a more balanced Congress that isn’t afraid to do what is right for their constituents and is not beholden to one person.
Together, let’s take our country back.
Sue Leason | Arcadia
Bergman Should Explain Contribution
Congressman Jack Bergman owes the citizens of his district an explanation if he financially benefited from campaign contributions totaling $289,000 from California couple Robin Rosenzweig and Elliot Broidy. The contributions are broken down into legal-limit increments. Contributions were received by the Bergman Victory Committee. The Bergman Victory Committee made contributions to Representative Bergman’s campaign.
In January 2021, the White House issued a statement from the White House Press Secretary listing the 73 individuals President Trump pardoned and commuted sentences. Elliot Broidy received a pardon. The description for Elliot Broidy states that the pardon is supported by Representative Jack Bergman.
The citizens of Michigan’s 1st Congressional District deserve an explanation from Congressman Bergman if his campaign financially benefited from this transaction.
Christopher Wright | Empire
Northern Express Weekly is published by Eyes Only Media, LLC. Publisher: Luke Haase PO Box 4020 Traverse City, Michigan 49685 Phone: (231) 947-8787 Fax: 947-2425 email: info@northernexpress.com www.northernexpress.com
Editor: Jillian Manning
Creative Director: Kyra Cross Poehlman
Finance Manager: Libby Shutler
Sales: Lisa Gillespie, Kim Murray, Kaitlyn Nance, Abby Walton Porter, Michele Young For ad sales in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne & Charlevoix, call (231) 838-6948
Contributors: Eric Cox, Anna Faller, Rachel Pasche, Nora Rae Pearl, Lourin Sprenger, Stephen Tuttle, Todd VanSickle
Distribution: Marc Morris, Gerald Morris, Dave Anderson, Joe Evancho, Jason Ritter, Sherri Ritter, Roger Racine, Sarah Racine, Brandy Grames, Rachel Cara, Jackson Price, Lisa Price, Peggy Bell
Listings Editor: Jamie Kauffold
Tax Time
It’s tax time! Where are our hard earned dollars going? To repair our aging bridges and Michigan roads? To food assistance programs that help families keep costs down? To Medicaid and healthcare subsidies to lower the cost of health care?
Nope, no money for that! It’s going by the billions to pay for Trump’s Iran war. Remember. This is the president who promised no endless foreign wars.
What are we doing in Iran? Finally last Thursday evening, after more than a month, the President attempted to answer the question that Congress should have demanded in the first place. Nothing new here! Just the same old grievances and incorrect, contradictory and confusing statements.
top ten
Earth Day in Cadillac
Each spring, Cadillac pulls out all the stops to celebrate Earth Day. While the official holiday is April 22, there will be a celebration at The Market at Cadillac Commons on Sunday, April 19, from 1-3pm. Admission is free, and you’ll find a host of nonprofits, outdoorsy entities, and local businesses ready to talk about their love of Mother Earth. A handful of the confirmed participants include the Cadillac Area Land Conservancy, Dan Valley’s Bird Houses, Wexford Conservation District, Moonlit Farm, and the North Country Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area. Also on hand will be live music by David Gill, treats from Betty’s Brats, and a Flying Colors tie-dye station. If your kiddo is one of the first 200 to attend, they’ll even receive a free tree! Learn more about the event at cadillacearthday.org.
2
tastemaker Red Truck Orchards’ Cherry Vinegar
We love a powerhouse pantry staple, especially one with proven health benefits. Enter: the original Cherry Vinegar from Red Truck Orchards in Northport. Crafted from Montmorency cherries sourced from northern Michigan family farms (including Red Truck’s home orchard, Hallstedt Homestead Cherries), this small-batch vinegar starts as cherry wine before undergoing a two-step fermentation, complete with a uniquely-cultivated strain of acetobacteria. Wood-aged and bottled with “the mother” (aka containing live cultures), this superfood is bursting with micronutrients and combines bright acid with nuanced complexity and a lingering, cherry-forward finish. Add a dash to marinades, stir it into beverages, or enjoy it straight from the spoon—the options are endless (and all cherry good for you!). Shop the Cherry Vinegar online at redtruckorchards.com, use their “find a store” tool to locate the nearest bottle, or visit 8233 North Matheson Rd. in Northport.
Old Heart, True Love
The northern Michigan premiere of award-winning film Old Heart will be shown in Milliken Auditorium at Dennos Museum Center in Traverse City on Thursday, April 16. Shot in both west Michigan and the Netherlands, the film is based on the acclaimed novel by Peter Ferry and explores a 1944 romance between a now 85-year-old African American World War II veteran, who escapes assisted living to find his wartime love. Meet co-director Kirk Wahamaski, producer/screenwriter Roger Rapoport, and stars of the film after either the 3pm or 5pm showings. Tickets are $15; free for students and veterans. heartland-iff.org/ticketsto-movies/special-screening-of-old-heart-the-movie
4
Hey, read It! Rooster
If you wondered what Steve Carell’s Cal Weaver from Crazy Stupid Love would be like 15 years later, HBO’s Rooster might just be the answer. Carell plays Greg Russo, bestselling author, recently divorced, and a well-meaning but absolutely bumbling dad to his grown daughter Katie. Katie (Charly Clive), a college professor, has just had her heart broken by a cheating husband (played by Phil Dunster, aka Jamie Tartt), and isn’t handling the breakup so well. Greg visits for emotional support, but winds up netting a writer-inresidence spot to keep an eye on his daughter. Meanwhile, he’s making accidental friends and enemies at every turn, from students to the college president to an alluring poetry professor. This is another Bill Lawrence show (Ted Lasso, Shrinking, Scrubs), so you know you’re in for laughs, tears, and a better understanding of the human condition. Episodes air Sun
Student art by Isha P. for the 2024 Earth Day contest
Stuff We Love: Small Change, Big Impact 6 Three Music Styles, One Night
Pick your favorite genre from these three performances happening on Saturday, April 18. At the AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center in Grayling, catch the One Love Reggae Band from 7-9pm. The five-piece group is based in the Midwest and has shared the stage with internationally known reggae recording artists. Tickets are $30 at artisanvillage. org/events. At The Alluvion in Traverse City, tune in for the album release of trumpeter and composer Anthony Stanco’s In the Groove as part of the venue’s jazz series from 7-9:30pm. Tickets are $30 at thealluvion.org or $35 at the door. And last but not least, relive the iconic songs of Broadway and Hollywood composer Cole Porter at Interlochen Center for the Arts as theater majors perform hits like “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” Free admission; learn more at interlochen.org/events.
Getting Your Work on the Silver Screen
Yes, it’s true—pennies are going extinct. The U.S. Mint stopped producing them late last year, which means businesses are having to round totals up or down without the ability to make exact change. But Traverse City’s Third Coast Bakery is planning to turn the penny problem into a sweet solution. They’ve announced that “customers paying cash will have their transaction rounded up to the nearest nickel,” and all those extra cents will go straight toward a special fund for nonprofit Project Feed the Kids. Project Feed the Kids started in the pandemic with a cooler full of food for families in need, and has grown to serve over 3,000 meals per week. Per Third Coast Bakery owner Heather Burson, “The average meal costs $2.50, so it won’t take long for our extra change to snowball into a real difference-maker in our community.” Learn more at thirdcoastbakery.com and projectfeedthekidstc.org.
Great Lakes filmmakers, take note! The Soo Film Festival, held in downtown Sault Ste. Marie Sept. 16-20, has put out their call for entries. The festival “seeks to showcase the work of independent and emerging filmmakers, especially from the Great Lakes” region, which means those of you here in northern Michigan. (After all, their motto is “Great Lakes, Great Movies!”) Entries will be accepted for “[d]ocumentary and all genres of fiction, feature and shorts” online through the platform FilmFreeway. The submission deadline is May 10 with a $20 entry fee, though late entries will be accepted through June 1 with a $25 fee. All selected films will be announced the week of Aug. 3. To learn more about the festival, head to soofilmfestival.org, and submit your film entries at FilmFreeway.com/SooFilmFestival.
When Silver Spruce Brewing Company opened its doors in 2018, the brewery committed itself to making beers that were crisp, clean, simple, and drinkable, a relative rarity in a craft brew world that had become increasingly interested in pushing experimental boundaries. No surprise, then, that Silver Spruce makes some of the most approachable sour beers on the market. While sours are an acquired taste, the Silver Spruce versions—most of them made under the banner of the brewery’s “mixed culture series”—are easy to appreciate. This one, made with Pilsner malt and blackberries, is like a fruity version of the brewery’s most popular beer, the German Pilsner. Tart but not too tart, fruity but not too sweet, oakaged but not too funky, the Blackberry Wild is the Goldilocks of sour beers: just right. Find a pint at 439 E Eighth St. in Traverse City. silversprucebrewing.com
bottoms up Silver Spruce’s Blackberry Wild
Pictured: Anthony Stanco at The Alluvion
THE DEREGULATION DISASTER
spectator
By Stephen Tuttle
We know the environment and its weather have been temperamental for several years. And we’ve known carbon dioxide released into our atmosphere tends to increase temperatures since the concept was first proposed way back in 1938. The Carbon Dioxide Theory of Climate Change was finally published in 1956 by scientists at Johns Hopkins, and we’ve been arguing about it ever since.
The argument is a shame because the science is pretty close to absolute; the gunk we emit to power almost everything traps heat in the atmosphere. The scientific agreement on this has reached about 99 percent but has not reached our current group of administrative decision makers.
The rest of the world, or most of it, is on board trying to at least cut back on the emission of greenhouse gasses while encouraging the expansion of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, geothermal, and even biofuels, basically the burning of garbage and landscaping waste. Electric and hybrid vehicles are gaining in popularity almost everywhere but here.
The current administration, under what passes for leadership from Donald Trump, is most decidedly not on board with even the basic idea of climate change, calling it a hoax perpetrated by the “radical left.” (As an aside, for a group that has never been in power, the “radical left” sure seems to control much.)
No, Trump and his cronies would like to return us to the smoke-belching, pollutionspewing days of the 1950s when oil and steel were kings and the environment was just a place to dump poison.
The Environmental Protection Agency, which has as its one and only job the protection of the environment, is bragging about their destruction of environmental regulations touting it as the “biggest deregulatory action in US history.”
We dumped the Paris Climate Accords during the first Trump administration, but we were just warming up. In the second bite at the apple, the EPA has overturned the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment finding that declared those gasses were a threat to our future. Nope, they are now magically gone unless a judge orders them restored.
They’ve also eliminated emission standards for vehicles, reduced emission standards for coal and gas powered plants, and significantly eased standards for the emission of carbon dioxide and methane gas. (According to the MIT Climate Portal, methane is 80 times more potent as a heat trapping greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide but only lasts 10-12 years in the atmosphere, while CO2 can accumulate in the atmosphere for centuries.)
They even rolled back the 2024 restrictions on mercury emissions, a nasty byproduct of the pollution produced by coal- and oilfired power plants.
The EPA has also closed their offices dedicated to environmental justice because if there is no problem with the environment then there is no environmental injustice. So how does that work out?
Not wanting to be left out of the deregulation bloodbath, the Department of the Interior weakened standards for offshore mining and drilling, including off the coast of New England and off the west coast but, oddly, not off the west coast of Florida that would be visible from Mara-Lago. They even tried to open mining exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge’s 1.5 million acres, but that ruling is now in the courts.
All of this was such fun, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) jumped on the deregulation bandwagon and reduced both the definition of and protections for wetlands. Rules regarding mining in national forests were also rolled back.
The Department of Energy joined in and revoked 47 different standards for energy efficiency in household appliances. They must have assumed Americans want their appliances to be more wasteful and less efficient, goals now achieved.
Altogether, according to the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, more than 100 environmental rules and regulations have been loosened or eliminated altogether.
Meanwhile nearly every dire prediction about our worsening climate is coming to fruition. Severe storms occur more frequently and flooding is becoming commonplace in too many areas—parts of Florida now experience street flooding with every high tide, and indigenous communities in Louisiana and Alaska had to be relocated as sea levels began to devour their island and coastal homes.
Where there aren’t floods there is severe drought impacting agriculture across the Midwest. Wildfires now start earlier, burn hotter, consume more area, and last longer than in the past. More than 25 million people in the western U.S. relying on the Colorado River and its impoundments will face water restrictions in the near future, and the desert Southwest has already seen 10 days of record-breaking triple-digit heat this year.
The environment is becoming a runaway train because of human activity and political inactivity. Crisis mitigation via thoughtful human intervention would help. Instead, our current government is doing nothing to slow the disaster and everything to hurry its arrival.
Event
Guest Opinion
by Karen Mulvahill
Have you ever been walking along the road and spotted a plant that had split the asphalt to reach the sun? I’m reminded of this image when I think of the No Kings protest on March 28. It was a wild blossoming of outrage against those who would pave over the Constitution with
And yet, amid this sea of people, I also felt hope. Hopeless people don’t come out on a cold day that felt more like winter than spring. There were thousands of us in
The symbolism of spring as a time of awakening, rebirth, and light is as old as human existence. If we look hard, we can spot positive signs popping up like crocuses and snowdrops. Yes, each hopeful bud is surrounded by a field of noxious weeds. Still, it’s important that we look for them, nurture them. I had a boss who used to say smugly, “Hope is not a strategy.” But in actuality, it is. It helps us see possibilities in difficult circumstances.
Numerous lawsuits have been brought against this administration and won. The ACLU alone has filed 239 legal actions against the administration, 64 percent of which achieved success in “delaying, diluting, or defeating the Trump agenda.”
One of the big strikes against Trump was when the Supreme Court struck down his tariffs. And his attempt to abolish the Consumer Financial Protection Agency was stymied by a federal judge who said the administration “acted arbitrarily, capriciously, and contrary to law.”
In a victory for freedom of speech, another judge ruled that restricting press access to the Pentagon was unconstitutional. And yet another ruling in late March found the president’s order to end federal funding for NPR and PBS unconstitutional.
The unprecedented level of crimes against immigrants continues, but there are pockets of hope here and there. Following the murders of U.S. citizens poet Renee Good and ICU nurse Richard Pretti, the majority of Americans believe ICE has gone too far. And arguments during the Supreme Court’s hearing on the birthright citizenship case demonstrated the justices’ skepticism of the administration’s point of view. It is likely that by June or July the court will reaffirm birthright citizenship.
There’s been pushback as well on the administration’s attacks on the LGBTQ+ community. Last year, the NEA disqualified for grants any organization that promotes “gender ideology.” Sued by a number of arts organizations, the court held that the NEA’s rule violated the First Amendment and was “arbitrary and capricious.” In another case, a judge ruled that the Department of Defense (DOD)
must stop censoring classroom and library materials pertaining to race and gender in the DOD-run schools.
Going to war with Iran was a tragic decision. Changing the name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War should’ve been a signal. To now call the trillions of dollars that will be spent “defense spending” is true hypocrisy. Let’s call it what it is: “Trump’s war” and “war spending.”
While it’s hard to pluck out anything hopeful here, I suppose it’s possible that the resultant soaring costs of gas and groceries will lead voters who believed candidate Trump’s promises to turn away from Republicans in the midterm elections. There are even a number of prominent MAGA supporters who have expressed disagreement with their dear leader on this issue.
On the environmental front, there are dozens of lawsuits underway. A number have been won already, such as allowing wind projects to go forward, protecting salmon in the Columbia River, and restoring the National EV Infrastructure charging network program. Many state and local units of government are undertaking their own efforts to protect the environment, often involving zero emissions goals. In our own backyard, we have numerous NPOs actively engaged in taking care of our precious resources.
Yes, it is like playing Whac-a-Mole, with the moles reproducing like cancer cells. Ever since the Citizens United case was decided, I’ve felt that we were doomed to become an oligarchy. But an effort by the citizens of Montana gives me hope.
Dubbed “The Montana Plan,” the ballot initiative would prohibit corporations from spending money on political candidates or ballot issues. Polling indicates that 75 percent of Montanans are in support. If every state were to adopt a similar initiative, the Citizens United decision, a decision 80 percent of Americans disagree with, would be moot.
Trump’s approval rating has steadily declined, now below 40 percent. I hope this dissatisfaction will be reflected in the midterms. I hope that the elections are held and are not manipulated by the GOP. If that is your hope, contact your senator to oppose the SAVE act, which would make voting much more difficult for millions of people.
Stay strong. Stay engaged. Stay hopeful. Like that little plant cracking the asphalt, together we can break through to the light.
Karen Mulvahill is a writer living in northern Michigan. Her new book, The Lost Woman, is now available.
THE CHICKEN OR THE EGG? Inside the Ingredients
By Nora Rae Pearl
Which came first: the chicken or the egg? This spring our vote goes to the egg and all the new things hatching and growing. To celebrate the season, we are cooking up old and new favorites that highlight local eggs.
For those looking for something sweet, test out our Dutch Baby recipe. It can be served with just about anything. (Fried egg on top, anyone?) Or go savory with the Spinach and Shallot Soufflé, perfect for a springtime menu. We scouted out some of our favorite eggs from Traverse City’s Anavery Fine Foods and River Valley Farms (look for the pink carton) at Edson Farms Market, and for delicious organic spinach, we recommend 9 Bean Rows or Lakeview Hill Farm.
SWEET DUTCH BABY
An eggy, custardy, thin pancake perfect for any morning.
Ingredients
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Confectioners sugar, for serving
To make the dutch baby: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla, and nutmeg until very smooth. Set aside to rest while you preheat your oven to 425 degrees. Put the butter in a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Once your oven is up to temperature, place the skillet inside to melt the butter—keep a close eye on it.
Once all the butter has melted, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Pour the batter into the pan and place back in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm and dusted with powdered sugar. This treat pairs nicely with lemon wedges and fresh fruit. Note: The pancake will collapse shortly after coming out of the oven.
SPINACH AND SHALLOT SOUFFLÉ
This light and flavorful soufflé makes spring feel like it is already here.
Ingredients
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• Large pinch of each nutmeg, salt, and pepper
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups baby spinach, finely chopped in a food processor
• 3 egg whites, at room temperature
To make the soufflé: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Grease four mini cocottes or ramekins with butter, approximately 1/2 tablespoon in each. Then coat each with 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs, shaking out the excess. Place on a baking sheet and set aside. Heat the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot, cook until translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in the milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook until thickened and begins to bubble.
Transfer to a medium bowl and allow to cool for 15 minutes. Mix in the egg yolks. Stir in the spinach and 3/4 cup of the parmesan until combined. Set aside. In a separate medium bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Stir 1/3 of the egg whites into the spinach mixture until combined. Carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined. Do not over-mix.
Divide between cocottes. Sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon of the remaining parmesan. Bake for 25 minutes or until browned, puffed, and firm to the touch. Avoid opening the oven before 25 minutes or they may collapse. Allow to cool slightly, then eat while still warm.
COLORFUL, FUNCTIONAL, JOYFUL Spring shopping at Wild Lettie
By Rachel Pasche
If you’ve ever been strolling through Suttons Bay or Fishtown and noticed a shop window bursting with colorful patterns or an outdoorsy item that grabbed your attention, chances are you walked by Wild Lettie.
The store originally opened in Fishtown as Compass Paper Co. in July of 2020 and has since morphed into the Wild Lettie stores today. Northern Express sat down with founder and owner Annie Lang to learn more about her background, how Wild Lettie originated, and some of the fun products to keep an eye out for as summer approaches.
Leelanau to Utah and Back
Annie Lang grew up in Leelanau County, graduating from Glen Lake Schools before going on to receive a studio art design degree from Michigan State University. She’s always known the cubicle life wasn’t for her, and after college, the pursuit of her interests and passions led her out west, where she took a chance on an in-town staff position at the whitewater base for the National Outdoor Leadership School in Vernal, Utah.
“That job was so instrumental in my growth in my 20s. It was a very independent work environment and a lot of hard work. I was constantly having to teach myself new things to get tasks done alone and on the road, and trying to figure out how to set boundaries and advocate for myself. I still come back to those moments a lot over a decade later,” Lang says.
Her first foray into monetizing her
creative side was in 2012, when she sold watercolor paintings on Etsy. Lang was living in a small cabin in Utah with no water or heat, sharing the space with her dog and then-boyfriend, now-husband, painting at a small plywood desk in her free time.
As she continued working on various creative pursuits, she repeatedly returned to the outdoors as a theme that wove into all of her work. When Lang started crafting her own cards, she did so with the goal of branching away from the classic feminine and minimalist stationery she often found in stores, and painting and lettering cards she would want to use.
When she moved back to northern Michigan in 2013, most of her free time was dedicated to building her first business, Compass Paper Co.
“The more I followed my own voice and really dug into my niche, the more it grew. By 2018, my cards were in retailers all over the country, and I was also stocked in all REI stores. I ran it all by myself out of my house—with free labor from my parents and husband, Matt,” Lang recalls.
Ready to Bloom
By early 2020, Lang was shipping enough product to need more help, and she hired her first employee, only to let her go a week later when the COVID shutdown occurred.
But that spring, Fishtown invited her to apply for a storefront, and after rounds of interviews and pitching, she opened in 2020, rehiring that same employee.
“Talk about a major risk!” Lang says. “And one that paid off big time. As a product-based
business, I always loved holding in my hands the products I had conceptualized, designed, and then put into production. Being able to have a space where we can interact with our customers and products together was always an idea I had floating around, and it was so lovely to put it into action.”
As time went by, Lang wanted a space that was more year-round than Fishtown, and when the lease for the retail spot in Suttons Bay opened, she jumped on the opportunity.
“At this point, we had been steadily growing every single year, far beyond just our signature outdoorsy stationery line. The name Compass Paper Co. didn’t fit the business anymore, and we changed our name to Wild Lettie. Lettie, as a female name, means joy, and I think that is so fitting for what this brand is: colorful, functional, joyful. It’s been a name we have been able to grow with since 2022.”
The brand has grown to focus on products designed to be used outdoors, with bright, eye-catching patterns and colors.
From the Inside Out
Wild Lettie’s commitment to the outdoors doesn’t stop at products designed to be used outside: they incorporate a lot of recycled material in their products and packaging, too.
“If you are a person who loves the outdoors and public lands, the idea of sustainability is always on your mind,” Lang says. “Wild Lettie works with other small businesses to manufacture our products.”
Lang explains that when she starts
thinking about a new product line, “the first thing I do is spend countless hours researching where and how to get things made. Our baseline starting point is always recycled materials. From our paper products to our line of ripstop items, they are all made from recycled post-consumer content. We even have a few businesses we work with that are carbon neutral.” Plus, Wild Lettie doesn’t use any plastic for packaging on their products.
New This Spring
This year, Wild Lettie is really leaning hard into birding and national parks. “I am so excited to launch our first
Lang
collection of the year in mid-April, which will kick off a very large National Park line I will be working on and adding to for the next 18 months,” Lang tells us. “There are also a lot of fun bird illustrations I am finalizing for products as well that will launch in May. And in our Suttons Bay store, we have plenty of products from other brands that go along with those themes, from books and puzzles to gear to enjoy our public lands and get our customers outside.”
One of the products Lang is most thrilled about includes a “Birds of the Midwest” deck, perfect for any novice or budding birdwatcher. The deck includes accurate illustrations by Lang, field notes, and wisdom and tips for slowing down and enjoying the outdoors.
Another fun option is a “Planting for Birds” gardening guide to attract more birds to your backyard. Birding magnets, illustrated books, and puzzles are also at the
top of her list.
Lovers of our national parks (and sustainability!) will love the “Big Fan of Public Lands” recycled zip bag, ideal for travel, crafting supplies, toiletries, stationery, and more (also available as a puffer blanket with an awesome pattern).
Smaller items Lang marks as notable are a “Enjoy Our National Parks” keychain, an Isle Royale mini puzzle, and an “Explore National Parks” iron-on patch.
And of course, anyone getting ready for summer can find one-of-a-kind camp towels, cross-body bags, or ripstop totes, all boasting bold, colorful patterns that elicit a sense of bright summer days spent exploring.
Stop into Wild Lettie (316B N St Joseph St. in Suttons Bay or Fishtown on W River St. in Leland), or shop their online store at wildlettie.com
Your table is ready. Reserve it today.
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.
PM - PM 1490 Red Dr. Traverse City, MI 49684
For more event information visit our website www.oryana.coop
You Can Send Human Beings to Space ...
But they may not be able to pee there. For some tense moments after Artemis II launched into space on April 1, the toilet on board was not accepting urine from the astronauts, the Associated Press reported. They saw a blinking fault light and reported the issue to NASA colleagues, who talked them through a plumbing fix that solved the issue. Apollo space journeys did not provide the luxury of toilets; earlier astronauts used a bag and funnel system and left bags of waste on the moon. With the loo in working order again, the Artemis crew members are ... relieved. [AP, 4/2/2026]
Give Me a Break
Over 400,000 units, or 13 tons, of KitKat bars were stolen in Europe the week of March 23, USA Today reported. The chocolate-covered wafers were nabbed in transit on their way from Italy to Poland. The stolen sweets were not the typical logshaped wafers, but special Formula 1 carshaped Kit-Kat bars. The thieves have yet to be apprehended, and the candy has not yet been recovered. In response, Nestle, the Swiss-based company that distributes Kit-Kats, launched a Kit-Kat tracker website on April 1 -- and that's not an April Fools' joke. "Help us find them. Use the Stolen KitKat Tracker," Nestle posted on X. Consumers can go to the website and enter an eight-digit batch code. If the number is confirmed to be from the stolen batch, Nestle said, the consumer or retailer "will be given clear instructions on how to alert KITKAT who will then share the evidence appropriately." Meanwhile, on social media, brands such as Dominos, Outback Steakhouse and PayPal have offered condolences ... and a little light roasting. "Bad time to roll out our Kit-Kat pancakes huh," Denny's said. [USA Today, 4/1/2026]
It's a Mystery
In the depths of Lake Superior, according to the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, "zombie" fish are swimming along with their brethren, the siscowet lake trout. MLive.com reported on March 31 that the fish, who are the same age and length as the healthy individuals, have lower weight and fat levels and appear emaciated. Scientists with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources are trying to find out the cause, looking at food limitations, disease, impacts of sea lamprey and contaminants as possibilities. [MLive.com, 3/31/2026]
Saw That Coming
A graffiti tagger in Bellevue, Washington, was plying their trade on March 25 when they tumbled off an overpass onto an I-90 ramp, KOMOTV reported. Washington State Patrol said the fall happened around 10:30 p.m. The person was taken to a hospital with a possible broken leg and facial injuries. WSP did not provide details about any pending charges. [KOMO, 3/31/2026]
Unclear on the Concept
A repo man took off with more than he bargained for on March 27 in Detroit, WXYZ-TV reported. As he prepared a car for towing, he said, he looked inside but the windows were dark, and he didn't see a
2-year-old child, who he said was covered by a blanket. Jenny Liagre, the owner of the repossession agency, said the driver "did his due diligence. He followed protocol to a T." The driver was notified about the child during the tow and returned the child to their mother without incident. Liagre said the driver pulled over "four or five different times just to make sure the kid was OK." [WXYZ, 3/27/2026]
Least Competent Criminal
On March 28, Palm Bay (Florida) police were summoned to a field in The Compound, a remote area, because of a suspicious suitcase, WFTV reported. Inside, officers found human remains, along with a kitchen knife and, oddly, an Amazon package addressed to Lucas Sandler Jones, 19, of Indialantic. Officials are awaiting an autopsy report to confirm the identity of the remains, but they believe the body is 28-year-old Colie Lee Daniel, who had been missing for two weeks. Jones' girlfriend said Daniel was at Jones' house on March 20, and the following day, she drove Jones to The Compound, where he dropped two containers. Jones is charged with tampering with evidence, abuse of a dead body and transporting a human body in an unauthorized container; he bonded out after charges were filed. [WFTV, 3/31/2026]
The Continuing Crisis
A woman and one of a pair of identical twins have taken their paternity case to the Court of Appeal in London, Sky News reported on March 30. The unnamed woman allegedly had sex with both twins, four days apart, and became pregnant. When the baby was born, one of the twins was named as the father, and the other twin objected. But family court declined to change the father's name on the birth certificate. However, scientists testified that DNA couldn't distinguish between the two identical twins. The case is ongoing, but Sir Andrew McFarlane said that the twin listed on the birth certificate would have no parental responsibility until the case is resolved. [Sky News, 3/30/2026]
Clowning Around
In February, Bolivia's Ministry of Education decreed that schools must follow a 200-day academic year, essentially banning any days devoted to special events, like parties or performances. On Monday, March 30, the Associated Press reported that an unlikely group took to the streets of La Paz to protest the new decree: not students or parents, but clowns, in their recognizable face paint and red noses. Clowns, who protested alongside costume makers and photographers, are often hired for school festivals and other events. "This decree will economically affect all of us who work with children," said Wilder Ramirez, a leader of the local clown union. The group marched through La Paz, blowing whistles and setting off small fireworks. Some carried signs, including one that accused the government of " taking away smiles, and taking work away." The ministry indicated they would consider the group's concerns when planning for the 2027 school year.
[AP, 3/30/26]
Mother’s Day
Sunday, May 10
Celebrate Mom at Artisan with a spring-inspired three-course brunch or dinner. Book your table today! artisantc.com
The little things often make all the difference. It’s why you feel the care we’re known for from the moment you arrive. At Munson, we know healing happens when excellence is served with warmth, compassion, and sincerity. Because our care isn’t just clinical—it’s personal. Learn more at: munsonhealthcare.org/commitment
THE FUTURE IS PEACE
Israeli and Palestinian authors come to TC to discuss the power of peacemaking
By Anna Faller
If you ask co-authors and peace activists Maoz Inon, an Israeli, and Aziz Abu Sarah, a Palestinian, anyone can be a peacemaker. The key is to reject the othering binaries by which we classify people as “us” versus “them.”
“If you must divide us, it should not be based on race, religion, or color,” Abu Sarah says. “It should be based on those who believe in justice, peace, and equality, and those who don’t—yet.”
Regardless of who you are or what you believe, it’s never too late to become part of “the greater us that are trying to make that change,” he adds. It’s this message of hope that the pair perpetuates in their collaborative book, The Future is Peace: A Shared Journey Across the Holy Land.
Join Abu Sarah and Inon as they take the National Writers Series stage on Sunday, April 19, at 7pm for a book talk presented in partnership with the Traverse City International Affairs Forum.
Forgiveness Is a Powerful Choice
Their story begins on October 7, 2023, when Inon’s parents, along with thousands of other Israelis and foreign nationals, lost their lives in the surprise attack launched by Hamas that ostensibly marked the start of the ongoing war.
Though the pair had met briefly about a decade earlier when their travel work brought them to Jerusalem, they hadn’t connected since. Nevertheless, when Abu Sarah learned of the tragedy, he knew he had to reach out to Inon.
“It was my first instinct,” he explains in the book. “I understood too well the pain he was going through.”
Having grown up in East Jerusalem during the First Intifada (i.e., a Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation) in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Abu Sarah was no stranger to grief caused by hate and division. In fact, his own peacebuilding journey began as a result of his brother Tayseer’s
death, who died when Abu Sarah was just 10 after spending nearly a year in Israeli prison.
Per Inon, it was this simple gesture of recognition and shared humanity that pulled him back from the brink.
Since then, the pair have forged an inextricable partnership and through it convened a host of advocacy work— including the nonprofit InterAct International, of which they’re co-CEOs— geared towards ending the war in Gaza and fostering lasting peace in the Middle East and beyond. It was their celebrated talk at TED2024 in Vancouver that provided the impetus for The Future is Peace.
“I’ve learned that the best way to motivate people, and to promote and choose reconciliation, is by action,” Inon adds. “Forgiveness is a powerful choice, and this is exactly what Aziz and I model [in the book].”
Walking the Land in Peace
The rest is, quite literally, history: specifically, that of the coastal swath along the eastern Mediterranean known as The Holy Land.
This cultural and religious epicenter of a landscape is not only highly-contested in terms of geopolitical and occupational boundaries—particularly in the aftermath of the Israeli War of Independence following the Holocaust, and the resultant Nakba, or catastrophe, which displaced hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in the late 1940s— but is also an ancient historical crossroads wherein tenants of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity meet.
In other words, residents of the region have been staring down a holy paradox for decades: with so many narratives, languages, and histories within its scope, the very land over which so many people are divided is also what unites them.
The book encompasses an eight-day tour through some of the region’s most contentious and historical hubs—from Inon’s childhood home in the southern Negev and the modern cityscapes of Tel-
Aviv and Jaffa, to the tension-steeped Jerusalem, the occupied West Bank, biblical Galilee, and beyond—with the goal of giving voice to unheard stories and cultivating understanding and empathy as the foundation of lasting peace.
“This is the only destination that is waiting for us,” Inon says. “That’s why the book is a journey: it’s not about logic or arguments, and definitely not debates. It’s about walking the land in peace, with peace.”
Shaping a Better Future
As Abu Sarah highlights, however, the rise of geopolitical tensions often poses a hindrance to peacebuilders seeking solutions, and visualizing a societal framework that’s both peaceful and sustainable becomes more difficult.
“The people around us become victims of thinking that bombs and wars [are] the only way that they can be safe,” he says. “It’s up to us to remind them that we can shape a better future.”
As for what possibilities that future might hold?
For starters, both writers underscore the importance of the shared values the book establishes: dignity, justice, recognition, healing, safety, and security for everyone. In other words, a world wherein the lives and rights of all people are equal.
This, they believe, is attainable by means of more than one political option, including both one- and two-state structures. (Abu Sarah highlights a confederation, wherein both Israel and Palestine are autonomous with access to their respective holy sites, as the most likely solution.)
Per Inon, implementing strong international support and involving diverse voices with activists at the fore are also key considerations. He suggests a resolution between Israel and Palestine could be in the cards by 2030.
The first step towards achieving this, the pair says, is daring to commit to the belief that achieving peace is possible, even when
it feels like it isn’t.
“The moment that we accept that a reality of conflict is [our] only potential is the moment we give up on life itself,” Abu Sarah says. “So, our message is saying you must believe in a future based on peacemaking.” Next, it’s time to take action.
This part might feel overwhelming at first, so Abu Sarah suggests first focusing on the choices we can make, no matter how small. They recommend forging partnerships and crafting a roadmap toward a peaceful outcome.
Once you have your framework in place, amplify, amplify, amplify! Per Abu Sarah, this could look like pursuing additional education; supporting peacemaking voices in the mainstream and on social media; legitimizing advocate voices; and when possible, inviting them into our communities.
“The book is a reminder that humanity will always overcome,” Inon concludes. “Peace will always prevail! There is no other destination for humanity—we just need to start walking the path.”
About the Event
An Evening with Maoz Inon and Aziz Abu Sarah takes place on Sunday, April 19, at 7pm at Traverse City West Senior High School (5376 N Long Lake Rd.) in Traverse City and via livestream. In-person and virtual tickets for the event can be purchased through the links on the National Writers Series website. Select bundles include a copy of Abu Sarah and Inon’s featured book, The Future is Peace: A Shared Journey Across the Holy Land. The guest host for the event is Ed Ronco, a veteran reporter and news director at Interlochen Public Radio. For more information, visit nationalwritersseries.org.
For more information on Maoz Inon and Aziz Abu Sarah’s peacebuilding initiatives, visit their nonprofit website, iinteract.org. Find the book at thefutureispeace.com, and to learn more about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, visit dualnarrative.org.
Inon and Abu Sarah at a September 2025 Union Square NYC Peace Rally. Photo by Gili Getz.
DETOUR SEASON
Interlochen open for business
By Todd VanSickle
Interlochen is preparing for the summer, but instead of bracing for the arrival of tourists, many along US-31 are expecting detours and an onslaught of heavy machinery as a major Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) project kicks off this month.
Meanwhile, the business community is banding together to make sure visitors know they are open, especially as construction is expected to last for the entire high season. Lengthy out-of-the-way detours have Interlochen business owners worried that it will push away customers.
Necessary Improvements
The $32.5 million US-31 rebuilding project will include 7.8 miles of construction from Sullivan Rd. in Green Lake Township to Reynolds Rd. in Inland Township. The project will be completed in three stages starting in April and is slated for completion in November.
Construction prep work started on March 23 with tree clearing along US-31. Road rebuilding work is expected to begin on April 15, but could start earlier if weather permits, per the Michigan Department of Transportation.
A southbound lane on US-31 will remain open for motorists throughout the duration of the project.
MDOT says when construction is complete the road will be safer with
improved pedestrian and bicycle crossings. The busy stretch of road will also be widened to improve safety, including the addition of center left-turn lanes, widened paved shoulders, and rumble strips. There will also be a roundabout added at the South Long Lake Road and J. Maddy Parkway intersection.
On March 24, MDOT hosted an open house at the Golden Fellowship Hall in Interlochen with about a dozen MDOT employees dressed in neon construction vests answering questions from community members. Maps and large photos were also on display to help people understand how the construction will affect them.
Redeemer Interlochen Pastor Jason Bauer left the open house feeling more informed about the project. He says the construction will be frustrating for churchgoers, but that the US-31 upgrades are much needed. Also, the church live streams its services.
“We just want people to be able to make it to church safely,” Bauer says. “I think it’s an important thing to have changed. There have been a number of close calls, some accidents—just because there’s no center turn lane. So, I think it’s a good improvement.”
Bringing in Business
This is not Tom’s Food Markets’ first rodeo…err roundabout.
Last summer, its West Bay store was affected by the construction of a roundabout at the M-72 and M-22 intersection as part of a $25.8 million road construction project
spanning over 2.2 miles from Division St. in Traverse City to Cherry Bend Rd. in Elmwood Township.
Tom’s Food Markets President Nancy Sands says the Interlochen site is being proactive with the upcoming construction, as they have a store near the US-31 and J. Maddy Parkway intersection.
The company is taking a lot of extra steps to inform customers with flyers stuffed in grocery bags, signage, advertisements, mailers, and maps at various locations about the construction and detours that are expected.
“We’re doing feathered flags out in front of our market to highlight, especially to a lot of the campers and people at the state park, that we are open,” Sands adds. “We’re at the end of the line, but we are open. These are some of the things we did with the West Bay roundabout. We’re doing as much, if not more here.”
Working Together
Sands says the Interlochen community is tight-knit. Leading up to the start of construction, several business owners, including Tom’s, met once a month to brainstorm ways to combat the upcoming construction woes.
“This has been a great community and collaboration between all of the business owners here,” Sands says. “We’re all concerned about each other, and we’re all just trying to support each other so that everybody can get through this.”
The first business owners meeting was held at the library and two other meetings
were at Hofbrau on J. Maddy Parkway, just north of Interlochen Center for the Arts.
“US-31 has like, 25,000 cars a day go up and down. They shut it off, and it’s 25,000 cars a day that go around us,” says Hofbrau Steak House & American Grille owner Brian McAllister. “It’s a substantial amount of people, and it makes our village inconvenient to go to—it’s just easier not to. You don’t have to necessarily stop in Interlochen to go out to eat or buy your groceries. So we got together, and we just started spitballing some ideas.”
McAllister has owned Hofbrau for 29 years and is also the Green Lake Township DDA president and County Commissioner for District 1. He says this year’s construction is going to be a “gut punch.” He also notes that during the past four years, Interlochen has been plagued with various construction projects in the area that have often detoured visitors around the village.
The DDA has spearheaded the website visitinterlochen.com to help visitors navigate the area during the construction.
“It will be updated on everything that happens with MDOT, and it’ll be consistent and reliable information, so they can navigate to us, or around us, or however it is,” McAllister says.
Signage will also play a big part in bringing awareness to the community, per Sands.
On behalf of Interlochen’s businesses, the DDA purchased two billboard advertisements along US-31 alerting motorists about the construction project and detours.
Interlochen residents and business owners gathered for an MDOT planning session earlier this year.
STAGE 1
April-June 2026: Rebuilding the north side of US-31 between Sullivan Road and west of J. Maddy Parkway/S. Long Lake Road, including building the roundabout. Southbound US-31 traffic will be maintained on US-31, while northbound US-31 traffic will be detoured on Gonder Rd., Riley Rd., J. Maddy Parkway, Youker Rd., and County Road 633.
J. Maddy Parkway access to US-31 will be open for most of this phase of construction, though it will be closed for up to two weeks at the start of work while crews build temporary lanes around the roundabout. South Long Lake Road access to US-31 will be closed, with traffic detouring on West Silver Lake Road and Secor Road.
STAGE 2
June and July: Rebuilding the south side of US-31 between Sullivan Road and west of J. Maddy Parkway/S. Long Lake Road, including building the roundabout. Southbound US-31 traffic will be maintained on US-31, while northbound US-31 traffic will be detoured on Gonder Road, Riley Road, J. Maddy Parkway, Youker Road, and County Road 633.
J. Maddy Parkway access to US-31 will be closed for most of this phase of construction. South Long Lake Road access to US-31 will be open to southbound US-31 traffic only, with other traffic detouring on West Silver Lake Road and Secor Road.
STAGE 3
July-November: Rebuilding US-31 from west of the South Long Lake Road/J. Maddy Parkway roundabout to Reynolds Road. Southbound US-31 traffic will be maintained on US-31, while northbound US-31 traffic will be detoured on Reynolds Road, Cinder Road, Diamond Park Road, Gonder Road, Riley Road, and J. Maddy Parkway.
Additionally, Tom’s will have a few signs of their own posted. The store got permits to place signs along various roadways to alert motorists that Interlochen is open for business.
“We are trying to promote not only Tom’s, but all local businesses,” Sands says. “On the top of the sign it is in very big in orange letters: ‘All Local Businesses Are Open and Accessible.’ We will be open during our regular hours 7am to 10pm seven days a week, and we will be there to help.”
Optimism and Opportunities
Despite the challenges the construction will pose, business owners are still optimistic about the arrival of summer.
Tom’s Interlochen will be adding sushi chefs, which the president expects to be a “big hit” among campers at the state park and academy. Hofbrau is looking forward to the return of the Interlochen concertgoers and opening up its 6,000 square foot beach-themed patio with outdoor games.
“I think it’ll go better than last summer, which was pretty tough,” McAllister says. “It
is not going to be a barn burner by any means, but I think it will be better. Everybody’s in the same boat and kind of knows where it’s going now.”
Interlochen Center for the Arts is also taking proactive steps to thwart any confusion related to the construction.
“We will be sharing timely updates with all of our key audiences, including families, local residents, and concertgoers so everyone knows exactly what to expect,” says Interlochen Center for the Arts Director of Communications Maureen Oleson. “For concerts, ticket holders will receive eventspecific messages with clear instructions and recommended routes.”
Oleson adds that Interlochen is grateful for the work and planning done by MDOT so far and is looking forward to the longterm safety and traffic improvements the US-31 project will bring.
“Most importantly, we want to support the crews doing this work,” concludes Oleson. “We’re asking everyone traveling through the area to plan ahead, follow posted detours, and stay safe.”
‘Listers’ documentary headed to Fresh Coast Film Festival in TC in May
By Eric Cox
Since the pandemic drove everyone outdoors, birdwatching (aka birding) has soared in popularity. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, birding has overtaken both hunting and fishing, as nearly a third of American adults—an estimated 96 million—scan the skies for our fleeting feathered friends.
With that many eyes ogling, a few are bound to cross and twitch. And those little aberrations in any widespread trend are often fertile ground for the quirky, the absurd, and the hilarious.
Enter southern Illinois brothers Owen and Quentin Reiser, who, on a whim, decided to pursue a documentary film about birding’s rather extreme offshoot, listing. If you didn’t know, there’s a species of birdwatcher called “listers” that tries (sometimes really hard) to spot as many different birds in a single year as they can, operating from coast to coast in the lower 48 states.
As the film reveals, these colorful characters maintain detailed statistics and other data, including photos, as they earnestly compete to see who can rack up the most personal sightings of as many species as possible.
Often hilarious, beautifully photographed, and packed with bird and human encounters that range from the mundane to the truly fascinating, Listers: A Glimpse Into Extreme Birdwatching will appear at the Fresh Coast Film Festival at City Opera House in Traverse City this May.
A First Foray
We won’t give away too much of the story, but this two-hour film chronicles a year in which the Reiser brothers took an outsider’s look at this fringe phenomenon, a deep dive into a nest of fowl curiosity, if you will.
In their high-mileage Kia Sedona minivan, Owen and Quentin crisscrossed the nation in pursuit of their “Big Year” of bird discovery, documenting—listing!—as many new species as they could find.
In this process, the duo, who had no previous journalism, filmmaking, or birding
experience, encounters and interviews some interesting characters, and they capture some very funny and strange moments among competitive people.
In spite of their inexperience in reporting, the Reiser brothers nevertheless do a good job pulling back the curtain on this unique offshoot of traditional bird watching. They offer a thorough, if not hilarious overview of the techniques and technologies listers use in their quirky quest.
Owen served as the film’s director, producer, editor, stop-motion animator, and primary videographer. Quentin, an app designer by day, handled the bird photography and joined interviews.
So how did they come to produce such a solid documentary, with no training or experience?
“[It’s] all just based on intuition,” Owen says, “just trying to make something funny that I wouldn’t mind watching myself.”
Soaring High
The spark of inspiration for the project came to Quentin one day while was blazing away with his bong and studying a field guide on North American birds. He pondered what it would be like to see every bird in the book, and, like a swan taking flight, the documentary idea rose high in his mind.
Do the Reiser brothers’ have a preferred weed strain or ingestion method? Is there a pungent green secret behind their success?
“What can you say?” says Owen. “The dispensary delivers. Quentin is definitely more of a pothead than I, but I don’t even think he knows the strains that well. There’s gotta be more species of weed than birds by now, no? Quentin will ingest weed by basically any means necessary. As for me, I’m more of a sensitive instrument. I tend to stick to the lower dose Sweet Tarts edibles.”
All About the Birds
A side project being developed parallel to the film was Quentin’s field guide to the over 500 different birds the brothers recorded in their Big Year. Throughout the filming Quentin made detailed studies of the birds, compiling
them into a field guide published last August.
“At one point, [the guide] was the number two bestselling field guide in North America—pretty good for a book that has a bird with tits on the cover,” Owen explains. We found the Field Guide of All the Birds We Found One Year in the United States available at Barnes & Noble’s online store and a host of other online retailers.
Lately, the Reisers have been on another ornithological quest: attempting to lay eyes on the elusive (and perhaps extinct?) ivory-billed woodpecker. Owen said they’re hot on the trail of this almost mythical bird. And it sounds like another fascinating, off-center tale.
“There will hopefully be a film about it soon,” says Owen. “It’s a very controversial topic. We recently lived with a group of searchers who sold their collection of Mastodon bones to fund their 20-year search effort to try and rediscover the bird. It’s a very dense story.”
Flying to Fresh Coast
While viewers wait to see the story of the ivory-billed woodpecker, Listers will have a place of honor in the inaugural 2026 Fresh Coast Film Festival Traverse City April 30May 3. Though several venues will serve as viewing spots, Listers will appear at City Opera House on Friday, May 1, at 7pm as part of the festival’s Friday night gala.
Fresh Coast Film Festival started in Marquette in 2016 with a heavy focus on outdoor recreation and conservation documentaries. This is the Traverse City installment’s first year, and local organizer (and Northern Express film columnist!) Joe Beyer says the L.P. edition will maintain the spirit and tradition of the Marquette event, offering lots of non-fiction and documentary selections, all of which appeared at Fresh Coast Marquette 2025 last October.
Listers certainly fits the FCFF’s genre, and Beyer said it was an easy choice for the Traverse City festival. When the brothers confirmed their attendance, Beyer said the local film festival’s stars aligned.
“When they said yes early, the rest of the program fell into place from there, and you’ll see the influence of the film across the
event for good reason,” Beyer says. “This is a blue collar, brotherclucker of a movie, and I simply loved it!”
Listers is already a cult hit with over 3 million YouTube views and write-ups in major publications like Slate, The Atlantic, Audubon, and more. That’s some serious company, but not surprising, according to Beyer.
“Not only is Listers engaging, beautiful, and compelling as true documentary film,” he explains, “it’s also irreverent, hilarious, and unexpected, and is quite simply an adventure itself to go on. And it’s also made with grit and creativity by Midwest makers blazing their own trail as storytellers.”
Owen told Northern Express that he and Quentin are equally stoked to perch in Traverse City for a few days.
“Joe called me and sold me on [the film festival] really well,” he says. “We’ve been invited to do over 100 events or festivals,” he adds. “We’re super grateful for the offers, but we only said yes to two of them because it honestly just feels like we’re beating a dead horse a little bit. We’d rather just work on making the next project! With that said, we are stoked to be at Fresh Coast Film Festival!”
SPOT LISTERS THIS MAY
Listers: A Glimpse Into Extreme Birdwatching, will be shown at City Opera House on Friday, May 1, at 7pm as part of the Fresh Coast Film Festival in Traverse City. See the full festival schedule at freshcoastfilmtraversecity. ludus.com.
6pm: Doors open, live birds from North Sky Raptor Sanctuary will be featured along with an outreach table by the Grand Traverse Audubon Club 6:15-6:45pm: Reiser brothers book signing with National Writers Series 7pm: screening begins 9pm-12am: Listers-themed after party at Nocturnal Bloom Brewing (open to weekend and Friday day pass holders and special guests)
NMC MAIN CAMPUS
FRIDAY NIGHT KICK-OFF
APRIL 17 5:30 - 6:30 PM
del icious PASTA DINNER
race PACKET PICKUP
free CAPE & MASK decorating
APRIL 17 - APRIL 18, 2026 featuring
CARNIVAL GAMES
CAKE WALK BAKE SALE
SILENT AUCTION
BEST COSTUME AWARDS SENSORY ROOM
SATURDAY- RACE DAY
APRIL 18 9 AM free one-mi le FUN RUN 5K run/wal k 10K run
SOLSTICE THEATRE COMPANY
A new community takes the TC stage
By Lourin Sprenger
There’s a bright new sunrise coming to northern Michigan’s performing arts scene.
For Chelsea Kaye, founder of Solstice Theatre Company in Traverse City, the idea has been years in the making. “Solstice really was a long time coming,” Kaye reflects on the vision. “When I say a long time, I mean arguably back when I was in college.”
Back then, she imagined a future where she could merge creativity with her passion for leadership, where theater was more than performance but a true community experience on and off the stage. Kaye aimed her college focus on theater, her true love, and business as a way to create and sustain it.
“I thought I could own a theater and run a company,” Kaye says of her original vision. “The idea of wanting to influence what types of theater the community can see and can resonate with, it never went away.”
Post-grad her vision may have changed, but returning home to northern Michigan helped her realize it never disappeared.
Something Missing
When Kaye returned to Traverse City in 2025 after time in Los Angeles, she was surprised to find a community that had grown, evolved, and embraced the arts in exciting ways. But something was still missing.
“I hadn’t lived here since 2008. Moving back from L.A. was a big swing. There was a gap,” she explains. “I kept hearing from people, ‘I wish we could do acting classes.’ ‘I’d love to learn directing.’ ‘I want to get better at musical theater.’”
The demand was consistent and coming from adults looking to grow as artists. That realization led to an experiment: a free, actor-led workshop called Sandbox. More than 100 people showed up.
“We had people who had never acted before sitting next to people who had been
doing community theater for decades,” Kaye says. “That was kind of the testing ground… and it showed me the time is right.”
That “right time” became Solstice Theatre Company. More than just a production company, Solstice is designed to be a hub for performance, learning, connection, and growth. Its educational initiative, Luminary Lab, will offer classes for actors, directors, creatives, and anyone curious about the craft.
“The classes are not just for Solstice Theatre’s benefit—they’re for the community’s benefit,” Kaye emphasizes. “If you’ve never taken a theatre class but want to direct something, you can take a four- to six-week class and feel more prepared.”
It’s a philosophy aimed to eliminate intimidation of the unknown, encouraging accessibility and empowerment.
A Momentum Shift
Right now, Solstice is still in its planning stages, as they prepare for a soft launch. The LLC was only formed in October of last year. While the company is in its infancy, the energy behind it is anything but small.
“There are some days where I have to say, you’ve got to take a nap instead of hammering on the laptop,” Kaye admits with a laugh.
Kaye has combined forces with other local thespians and friends to bring Solstice to life. “The vision doesn’t exist without people showing up,” she says. “When they do, that’s the realization of a mission and vision come to life.”
Solstice will be a semi-professional company placing value in its artists. That value starts with a fair wage.
“One of the things that we do that’s different is…we pay all of our production and onstage talent,” Kaye says. “It’s important that we hire local talent and pay them for that talent.”
The company also plans to prioritize
quality over quantity. Solstice will focus on one or two well-executed productions a year, offering classes based on need and demand.
Their first production, a devised cabaret, will debut one day ahead of the summer solstice (June 20) as a tribute to its namesake.
While most of the work right now is happening behind the scenes, things will soon begin to ramp up: classes, performances, partnerships. Kaye is putting out an open invitation to locals to be part of it from the start.
“Come along for the ride with us,” she says. “We’re excited to hear what people love, what they want more of… all of it.”
Because in the end, Solstice Theatre Company isn’t just launching a season—it is helping shape what theater can look like in northern Michigan. “The hope is that the performing arts community supports Solstice,” Kaye adds. “So far, they have.”
Solstice plans to begin promotion of their upcoming cabaret in the coming weeks, with classes offered soon as well. Follow along at solsticetheatre.company.
Theater Matters
Ask Kaye why theater matters, and her answer goes deeper than entertainment. In her view, theater isn’t optional for a thriving community—it’s essential.
“Theater is ultimately the performative arm of communication,” she says. “It helps us communicate stories, find empathy with each other, and build bridges.”
Sitting side-by-side sharing a story with someone, even if they are a stranger, is a shared experience, according to Kaye. The reactions may be different, but they are still happening together.
“You’re sitting in a room with people from wildly different backgrounds…and you have this shared experience. That’s really unique. And those conversations afterward? Those are the things that make us more human.”
Solstice Theatre Co. will be renting space from Traverse City’s MATCH (which stands for Music, Art, Theatre, Community, Home) in the Cherryland Center, the homebase of Mashup Rock & Roll Musical. Per their website, MATCH hopes to “become an incubator for other artists and theatre-makers.”
WHAT ARTISTS DO IN TIMES LIKE THESE: A PROTEST SONG REVISITED
Guest Opinion
By Annette Summersett
In 2005 I wrote a protest song entitled “Americans Anonymous.” I’m sure you can guess why based on timing. Wait! What? There were actually no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq?
It has been appalling to realize that now, 20+ years later, my song feels even more relevant then it did back then. In those days, fresh off the boat from the U.P. living in Los Angeles and exploring what it meant to be a young adult in the real world, I thought what was happening was as bad as it could get. (Says 2026 to 2003, “Hold my beer!”) I released my angst through my folk rock music. In the spirit of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in a Free World,” I drew fortifying breaths through my wailing harmonica.
Create
if
form. We butted heads about it, and it actually almost killed the vibe of the recording sessions, but after we had a “come to Jesus” talk and pushed the track to the end of the sessions to give it some time to marinate, we compromised on some minor lyric tweaks for flow purpose and ended up rocking the hell out of the song.
Ed got to know me better through recording the other album tracks first and he realized that my words in “Americans Anonymous” were exactly what I was feeling and how I wanted to express myself in earnest. I am forever proud of the song, and his musical imprint lives on in the recording.
you can, but at the very least,
practice the subtle art of kindness. Do not forfeit your agency.
It was raw for me because my classmates were fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq. When you grow up in a small town, your classmates are like your family, whether you like it or not. You don’t get to choose your family and you don’t get to choose the kids you go to school with in a village. Dysfunction or whatever else, you are a part of each other. The armed services recruit heavily in rural areas for obvious reasons. It was a good opportunity for many of my schoolmates to enlist, and for some, it was the only way to get out of town. You better believe that I was pissed off at the lies and bad decisions putting my “family” in harm’s way!
Our country’s insistence on re-electing the perpetrators of those big lies didn’t help. I traveled from L.A. to Minneapolis to record “Americans Anonymous” as the 10th and final track on my folk rock album (released 2006). This is the height of irony for me now. I chose to cut the album in Minneapolis because I had the opportunity to work with the late, great producer/musician Ed Ackerson, which not only brought with it the incredible experience of having a Minneapolis music scene legend as my producer but also the ability to record with bassist Marc Perlman of The Jayhawks and superb Minneapolis drummer Peter Anderson.
With everything happening currently, I’m reflecting on the recording session of my protest song and I wonder what Ed would think today if he were alive (he unfortunately passed in 2019), in the wake of his beloved city being terrorized by the federal government.
Ed had misgivings about the song at first because the lyrics were so straightforward that he feared it could be taken as cliche (songwriting taboo). But I insisted on its
My personal story with protest through song is one tiny piece of the vast human collective. I believe the artist’s role in resistance to tyranny is incredibly important! I naturally think about the many musicians throughout history that have taken a stand through song, like Sam Cooke, Woody Guthrie, Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, and newcomer Jesse Welles, to name a few.
However, when I say “artist,” I’m referring to artists of every articulation. When you create art, you are expressing the most beautiful parts of your humanity and just the act of creating is resistance to the dehumanization that the tyrants of the world need to happen in order to exert control.
I see today that my song is relevant again because the tumult is cyclical in the human experience. Renowned poet Sylvia Plath said it perfectly in her essay “Context” when she wrote, “For me, the real issues of our time are the issues of every time—the hurt and wonder of loving; making in all forms—children, loaves of bread, paintings, buildings; and the conservation of life of all people in all places, the jeopardizing of which no abstract double-talk of ‘peace’ or ‘implacable foes’ can excuse.”
Despite the fact that people who seek to control are often oppressively loud, I truly believe good folks outnumber the bad. I implore my fellow kindred spirits to open your eyes, ears, and hearts wide! Create if you can, but at the very least, practice the subtle art of kindness. Do not forfeit your agency. And thus, keep participating in the process of re-humanizing.
Annette Summersett is a producer/singer/ songwriter/composer/visual artist and Yooper now living and creating in Traverse City.
lOGY
APR 13 - APR 19
BY ROB BREZSNY
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Anthropologist and author Clifford Geertz loved to use "thick description.” He wrote detailed reports that captured not just the surface level of what happened but the deeper levels of meaning. Here’s an example of thin description: "He winked." Thick description: "He quickly closed and opened his right eyelid in a culturally specific gesture of playfully conspiratorial communication." In the coming weeks, Aries, I invite you to enjoy the sumptuous pleasures of thick description. Unleash your wild curiosity as you dig down into the rich, complex truths about everything. Gleefully explore how the cultural, personal, and historical contexts give each moment its specific, nuanced significance. (PS: This approach will enhance your options for responding.)
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): When people finally grasped just how radical Einstein’s theory of relativity was, a journalist asked him how he had arrived at such a breakthrough. Einstein said it was simple: He had utterly ignored supposedly fundamental truths. Dear Leo, please notice what that might imply for you in the coming weeks. Einstein didn’t dismiss a mere opinion or fashionable theory; he set aside theories so deeply accepted that everyone treated them as obviously factual. He didn’t waste energy fighting them, but simply proceeded as if they didn’t exist. Consider doing the same: Set aside at least one seemingly incontestable assumption and be alert for the new realities that then become possible.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The International Space Station orbits Earth every 90 minutes, so astronauts see 16 sunrises and sunsets every 24 hours. It’s a challenge to maintain their circadian rhythms. They must be disciplined as they stick to a sleep cycle that human bodies are accustomed to. But there’s a wonderful trade-off: the rare privilege of witnessing the rapid cycling of total darkness and brilliant light, which provides a visceral sense of life’s deep cadences at work. Your routine may seem similarly unsettled these days, Virgo. Transitions are coming faster than feels natural. But I suspect this disruptive blessing is giving you access to patterns that aren’t intelligible when you’re moving more slowly. You're beholding the way things change as well as the changes themselves. This is a valuable gift. The insights will be worth the disorientation.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): ): You Libras sometimes get accused of indecision, as if your careful weighing of possibilities were a weakness. But see a different truth: You aspire to be fair-minded as you honor all the legitimate claims on your attention. So the problem isn't your capacity for considering multiple sides of each story. Rather, I find fault with the culture you live in, which is obsessed with one-dimensional certainty. If I were your coach or therapist, I would give you permission to take your time and resist the rush to resolution. The most honest thing you can say may be, "I'm still deciding," or "Both of these feel true."
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You’re not a flaming expert at turning tension into treasure, but you have modest skills at that art. And now I’m predicting you will grow these skills. Before you jump to conclusions, though, please know that I’m not implying you will be immersed in stressful melodrama. I’m suggesting you will handle differences of perspective with increasing aplomb and curiosity. Instead of treating conflict as a debilitating hassle, you’ll try to find value in it. Some debates may even feel stimulating and fun rather than tiring. To take maximum advantage, enjoy the controversies as exploratory missions rather than as showdowns you must win at all costs.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I hope and predict that you will be wildly resourceful as you wisely experiment with love in the coming weeks. I hope and predict that you will research the art of tender, inspiring intimacy in new frontiers. Reinvent passion, you subtle intensity freak! Be a bold explorer who breaks the boring old rules! Dare to break open new varieties of sweetness and companionship that require you to innovate and improvise!
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): If you were on a walk and spied a dime on the ground, would you bend down to grab it? Probably not. Would you feel differently about a quarter? Maybe you have decided that nothing under a dollar is worth your effort.
But in the coming weeks, you will be wise to break such rules. Symbolically speaking, the act of stooping down to pick up a dime will set off a chain reaction that ends with you acquiring a hundred-dollar bill. By saying yes to small, unexpected blessings, you’ll position yourself to receive larger ones down the line.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The coming weeks will be an excellent time to begin a building project on the scale of Egypt's Great Pyramid or India's Taj Mahal. You should at least initiate work toward some magnificent masterpiece or creation, Aquarius. According to my analysis, there's a chance you could coax an armada of helpers to work on your behalf. And as you set out to accomplish your labor of love, I bless your quest.
PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): Artists who specialize in origami can create structures far stronger than the flat paper they're folded from. The weakness of being made from thin, fragile material is overcome through strategic creasing. Engineers now use origami principles to design everything from solar panels to artificial blood vessels. Let’s extrapolate these facts into a lesson for you in the coming weeks, Pisces. We’ll assume that your flexibility is a strength, not a liability. You will wield your pliability to produce a high degree of structural integrity.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): New beginnings and final chapters will be overlapping in the coming weeks, and they’ll push you in the direction of robust growth. It won’t always be obvious which is which, though, so you’ll need to sharpen your discernment to read the signs. Here are two contemplations to steer you: 1. Which long-running sagas in your life have finally played themselves out? 2. Which struggling, half-forgotten dreams are yearning to rise again and blossom as if they were brand new? Once you’ve listened deeply enough to answer those questions, move boldly: Feed and protect whatever is being born, and actively assist in the graceful dismantling of whatever is ready to end.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): One of your goto tools or assets is still functioning, but now is exactly the time to repair or refurbish it—before it breaks. Furthermore: A power outage of sorts may be looming unless you move to head off an impending overload. Wait, there’s even more! The monster in your closet is still deeply asleep, which is why now is the perfect moment to summon an exorcist or exterminator, before it stirs. Are you getting the picture, Gemini? The very fact that you’re reading this horoscope gives you all the advance warning you need to sidestep potential glitches and diversions.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): According to my reading of the astrological omens, asking the BIG questions is highly advisable right now. Why? Because you are unusually likely to get really good answers to those BIG questions. Want a nudge to get started in this noble enterprise? Here are three recommended queries: 1. “What is the wild meaning of my precious life?” 2. “Who the #@$%&!* am I, anyway?” 3. “Where is this so-called 'God' I hear so much about?" Dear Cancerian, I will also urge you to formulate humorous, satirical BIG questions that inspire life to be playfully revelatory with you. Here are three:
1. “How can fine-tune my friends and loved ones to perfection?”
2. “Are there shortcuts to getting absolutely everything want?”
3. “How do sign up for a life of nonstop pleasure, free from all discomfort?”
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 8am-10pm. 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-the-stigma-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: Traverse Area District Library, TC. Fri., April 10, 5:30-8pm: Members Only Pre-Sale (membership sign-up available at the door). Sat., April 11, 9am-6pm: Sale open to the 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. 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: 10am-2pm, YMCA Hayo-WentHa 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 hand-thrown 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.
LET’S MAKE A POWER SONG: 10am, Benzie Shores District Library, Frankfort. Create
a power song that is easy to sing & helps find ways to get through challenging times. For all ages. gardentheater.org/thisweek
NO AI DATA CENTER IN MICHIGAN STATEWIDE RALLIES: 10-11am, The Open Space, TC. A statewide rally urging elected officials to act upon the overwhelming bipartisan public opposition to data center expansion. facebook.com/ events/929503629695731
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: 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
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-artday-tickets-249347
CADILLAC FOOTLITERS THEATRE AUDITIONS: 1-3pm, Cadillac First Presbyterian Church. Ages 18+ can audition for “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” cadillacfootliters.com
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-five-skate-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- & faculty-choreographed works. Free. interlochen.org/events/springdance-performance-accessibility-performance-2026-04-11
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
Honor Earth Week by doing your part outside! On Sat., April 18 TART Trails will host spring work bees at various locations along the trail network from 10am-noon. Help them get ready for the summer season ahead! You can also head to Wildwood Harbor Nature Area in Boyne City during the same timeframe to help remove litter and restore habitat at one of WLAC’s flagship preserves. Also, the day before, Fri., April 17, you can take part in an Adopt-A-Beach Community Cleanup from 2-3:30pm at the Captain Thomas M. Kelly Biological Station campus lakefront in Suttons Bay. See the Dates listings for more info!
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-dance-performance-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 10-12. Today is half day & open to the public from 9am3pm. 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 hand-thrown 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 Sat., April 11)
CADILLAC FOOTLITERS THEATRE AUDITIONS: (See Sat., April 11)
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 & 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-welcome-the-younce-guitar-duo-in-concert-onsunday-april-12-at-300pm-4-12-2026
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 Sat., April 11)
monday
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 PAR-
KINSON’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
G.T. HUMANISTS MEETING: TULIPS: 6pm, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Linda Young will present “Tulipia: The Fascinating History of a Horticultural Treasure.” gthumanists.org
MI MOVIE MANIA: 6:30pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. A series of movies set &/
or filmed in the Great Lakes State continues. “Roger and Me” (R) is a documentary on the closing of GM plants in Flint. Free.
NWS PRESENTS: DION & LUCJA LEON-
ARD: 7pm, TC Central High School. Hear ultra-marathon runners Dion & Lucja Leonard talk about the New York Times bestseller “Finding Gobi.” It’s an amazing account of how Dion crossed paths with a small, stray dog during a 155-mile race across the Gobi Desert in China. Guest host is Janice Beyer, the current President of the Board of Directors for the TC Track Club. Doors open at 6:30pm with live music. $10-$46. nationalwritersseries.org/author-event/dion-and-lucja-leonard
tuesday
QUILTS FOR KIDS: 10amnoon, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Join Kellie Chase to transform fabrics into patchwork quilts for kids facing serious trauma. Materials provided. RSVP. Free. peninsulacommunitylibrary.org
SPRING PEEPERS: INSECT INVESTIGATION: 10am, Boardman River Nature Center, TC. Jump into a bug-filled quest where you will become insect investigators, searching for creepy-crawly clues in nature. Includes stories, crafts, music, & discovery activities. Takes place entirely outdoors. For ages 3-5 with an adult. Register. $5/child per session; cash only. natureiscalling.org/preschoolpeepers-program
VOTER INFORMATION WITH THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF GRAND TRAVERSE AREA: 11am, Traverse Area District Library, Lobby, TC. Meets the second Tues. of every month during 2026. Learn about voter registration, get info on candidates & ballot measures, & more. This event is part of the 2026 Civics Celebration - tadl.org/democracy. Free. tadl.org/event/ voter-information-league-women-votersgrand-traverse-area-30103
“GARDENING FOR THE PLANET”: 6-8pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. This film is presented by Master Gardener Assoc. of Northwest Mich. & the Invasive Species Network. Free.
BENZIE NEIGHBOR NETWORK MIXER:
6-8pm, Five Shores Brewing, Beulah. Meet with like-minded community members to talk about tree planting projects. At this social mixer, cohosted by Benzie Conservation District & Michigan Forest Association, learn how you can assist others or receive help yourself. Light refreshments will be provided, & the first 20 attendees will get a free beer ticket. Register: michiganforestassociation-bloom.kindful. com/e/neighbor-network-mixer-wbcd. Free. benziecd.org/neighbor-network.html
GARDEN CLASSIC MOVIES: “SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN”: 6pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort. A silent film star falls for a chorus girl just as he & his delusionally jealous screen partner are trying to make the difficult transition to talking pictures in 1920s Hollywood. Free. gardentheater.org/comingsoon
A BIRDERS JOURNEY THROUGH THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS & WESTERN ISLANDS: 7pm, Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey. Hosted by Petoskey Regional Audubon Society, this event features local birder Darrell Lawson sharing his birding adventures & travels From Loch Ness to Scotland’s Whisky Island & from the Mull of Kintyre to the Isle of Skye & the Culloden Battlefield. Free. petoskeyaudubon.org apr 13 apr 14
wednesday
HERE:SAY STORY-
TELLING: WHAT IN THE WORLD: 7-9pm, The Alluvion, TC. Storytellers tell true, first-person stories about a time in their lives that they confronted the wild, wacky, inexplicable, & absurd. $15. heresaystorytelling.com
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS FORUMRIGHTS OF NATURE: GLOBAL MOVEMENT, INDIGENOUS VALUES: 7pm, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. IAF explores the global Rights of Nature movement, rooted in Indigenous principles core to Great Lakes vitality. Join Tribal Attorney Frank Bibeau (in person) & Hugo Echeverria (virtual, from Quito). Grant funding provided by Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians. Tickets at TCIAF.com. $15 advance, $20 door, $10 livestream, free for current students & educators. tciaf.com/event-april-2026
thursday
“OLD HEART”: Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. Enjoy the northern Michigan premiere of this award-winning movie. Meet codirector Kirk Wahamaski, producer/screenwriter Roger Rapoport, & stars of the film after either the 3pm or 5pm showings. Shot in both west Michigan & the Netherlands, the film is based on the acclaimed novel by Peter Ferry & explores a 1944 romance between a now 85-year-old African American World War II veteran, who escapes assisted living to find his wartime love. Tickets are $15; free for students & veterans with current i.d. heartland-iff.org/tickets-to-movies/ special-screening-of-old-heart-the-movie
PETOSKEY BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: 5-7pm, Odawa Casino Resort, Victories, Petoskey. Enjoy networking, food & a cash bar. Bring your business cards for a chance to win prizes. $10-$15. petoskeychamber. com/business-after-hours
BELLAIRE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: 5:30-7pm, ASI Community Center, Bellaire. Network & enjoy complimentary light bites & drinks while getting an inside update on ASI’s plans for a new indoor community center — including proposed pickleball courts & additional activity spaces. Optional: Bring along a small donation item if you’d like to contribute to the door prizes. $3-$5.
TC COMEDY FEST: April 16-18. Held in seven venues in TC & featuring headlining comedians Gary Gulman, Roy Wood Jr., Meg Stalter & Sarah Sherman, & Joe DeVito. Others include Ryan Brown, Ren Dawe, Janelle Draper, Darrick Ervin II, Bri Giger, & many more. See web site for schedule & tickets. traversecitycomedyfest.com
TALK•PROTECT•REPORT™: DIGITAL
SAFETY: 6-7:30pm, Leelanau County Government Center, Suttons Bay. Learn practical tools to help protect children in today’s digital world. Free. traversebaycac.org/talkprotect-report-training
--
TRAVERSE CITY STATE HOSPITAL: 2026
LECTURE SERIES - PART 3: 6-7:30pm, The Village at GT Commons, Kirkbride Hall, TC. Catherine Allen-Goodwin presents “The Farm.” Long before modern supply chains, the Traverse City State Hospital relied on its own farm to feed patients & staff. The TCSH farm lecture looks at how agriculture supported the hospital’s mission, provided work
for patients, & played a key role in everyday life on the grounds. $15. thevillagetc.com/ events/tcshlecture3
JAZZ AT THE CITY OPERA HOUSE: 7pm, City Opera House, TC. Interlochen Arts Academy’s jazz students bring the sweet sounds of swing to TC. Join the Jazz Orchestra & Jazz Combo for a diverse program of standards & contemporary charts. $10$25. interlochen.org/events/jazz-city-operahouse-2026-04-16
friday
ADOPT-A-BEACH COMMUNITY CLEANUP:
2-3:30pm, Captain Thomas M. Kelly Biological Station campus lakefront, Suttons Bay. Help keep the Great Lakes shorelines healthy & beautiful. Please bring a reusable water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing, a 5-gallon bucket, &/or paper grocery bags with handles. adopt.greatlakes.org/s/cleanup/a2oPm000001fOx3/aab25159
SOLO EXHIBITION: MARIE PARMER: Art on Union Gallery, TC. An established artist from Ann Arbor, Marie Parmer will be exhibiting her artwork for two days, sharing her inspiration, & talking with guests. Reception held on Fri., April 17 from 4-7pm. Free. artonunion.com
TC COMEDY FEST: (See Thurs., April 16)
SPRING FAMILY CONTRA & SQUARE
DANCE: 6:30-9:30pm, Mills Community House, Benzonia. A fundraiser for the Benzie Area Emergency Fund. Live music by Lousie Brodie & Friends. The first half hour is a workshop. 231-651-0370. Suggested donation: $10-$20.
“ACTING CAN BE MURDER”: 7pm, Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall. Presented by the Elk Rapids Players, this production follows a community theater troupe where the offstage drama turns deadly. $15-$20. elkrapids.booktix.com
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE: 7:30pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. This fun comedy begins with a theater-loving narrator as a 1920s musical springs to life in his apartment featuring a wedding disrupted by gangsters, mistaken identities & a tipsy chaperone. $35 adults; $25 youth under 18. oldtownplayhouse.com/performances/mainstage/thedrowsy-chaperone.html
saturday
31ST ANNUAL MCLAREN CHILDREN’S HEALTH
FAIR: 9am-1pm, Petoskey Middle School. Kids & families can participate in a super hero fun run, petting zoo, free health screenings, crafts & hands-on activities, free lunch & prizes, meet local first responders & explore emergency vehicles, & enjoy live music. Free. petoskeychamber.com/events/ details/31st-annual-mclaren-children-shealth-fair
NMC HERO RACE: 9am, NMC’s campus, TC. Proceeds support NMC’s College for Kids program & provide scholarships for local children. The event features a one mile fun run, 5K & 10K, plus games, food, awards & a Hero Award honoring community heroes. $0-$30. nmcherorace.com
APRIL EARLY CHILDHOOD FREE FAMILY FUN DAYS: 10am-2pm, YMCA Hayo-
Went-Ha Torch Lake Camp, Central Lake. 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.
EARTH WEEK TRASH CLEANUP WORKDAY: 10am-noon, Wildwood Harbor Nature Area, Boyne City. Celebrate Earth Week by helping remove litter & restore habitat at one of WLAC’s flagship preserves. walloon.org/ all-events/?event=3720
SOLO EXHIBITION: MARIE PARMER: 10am-6pm, Art on Union Gallery, TC. An established artist from Ann Arbor, Marie Parmer will be exhibiting her artwork for two days, sharing her inspiration, & talking with guests. Free. artonunion.com
TART TRAILS’ SPRING WORK BEE: 10am-noon. TART Trails is hosting work bees at various locations along the trail network today. Get out & enjoy springtime on the trails & help get them ready for the summer season ahead. traversetrails.org/event/ tart-trails-spring-work-bee
PROTEST ISRAEL’S GENOCIDE AGAINST PALESTINE: (See Sat., April 11)
sunday
COFFEE WITH THE AUTHORS: KAREN MULVAHILL: 1pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center. Author of “The Lost Woman,” Mulvahill sets her novel in 1940’s Paris, just as the Nazis storm the City of Lights. What follows is a tale of one young woman’s resistance, art theft, & a long-delayed effort to restore stolen paintings to their rightful owners. Free. glenarborart.org/product/coffee-with-the-authorskaren-mulvahill
COURAGE FOR DEMOCRACY, COURAGE FOR RACIAL JUSTICE: 1-3pm, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. The E3 Council & Better Together Series present two longtime social justice leaders - Denna Hayes-Green & Chris Crass. Listen as they share their own stories about working against racism & being part of justice movements.
SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK SINGALONG: 11am, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Join your Schoolhouse Rock friends for a singalong of all your favorites from childhood Saturday mornings. Free. tadl.org/SRsingalong
TC COMEDY FEST: (See Thurs., April 16)
THE 1ST MI COLORED REGIMENT: 4pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Historian & Executive Program Director of the Gospel Army Black History Group Maurice Imhoff will present his book, “The 1st Michigan Colored Regiment: FREE MEN WHO FOUGHT SLAVERY.” He will explore the formation, service, & enduring legacy of the 1st Michigan Colored Regiment - later designated the 102nd United States Colored Troops. Free. tadl.org/mauriceimhoff
“ACTING CAN BE MURDER”: (See Fri., April 17)
ONE LOVE REGGAE BAND LIVE IN CONCERT: 7-9pm, AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center, Grayling. Enjoy a night of rhythm, energy & island vibes. $30-$35. artisanvillage.org/events
FORMULA 1 FREE WATCH PARTIES: SAUDI ARABIA: 1pm, The Bay Community Theatre, Suttons Bay. Experience the thrilling races on the big screen! Featuring Formula 1 games. Doors open an hour before the start of each race. thebaytheatre.org/ home-page
THE IDES OF MARCH (RESCHEDULED FOR APRIL!): 1-5pm. Roam the Village at Grand Traverse Commons for a free Shakespeare festival where food, drink, & live performance intertwine. You’ll move from venue to venue, encountering scenes, songs, & soliloquies. Between performances, linger over local wine & beer, enjoy Sunday fare, & soak in the historic atmosphere of the Commons. Free. theworldsastage.org/ides
“ACTING CAN BE MURDER”: (See Fri., April 17, except today’s time is 2pm.)
GREAT LAKES CINEMA SERIES: THE LORAX: 2pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. Dr. Seuss story comes to life in this colorful, family-friendly film that celebrates caring for the planet & standing up for what’s right. Pay what you can admission. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/the-lorax
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE: (See Fri., April 17, except today’s time is 2pm.)
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE: (See Fri., April 17)
MARK FARNER: SOLD OUT: 8pm, Odawa Casino Resort, Ovation Hall, Petoskey. Legendary all-American frontman & guitarist Mark Farner carried the original Grand Funk Railroad repeatedly to the top of the charts. His hits include “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home),” “We’re An American Band,” “Heartbreaker,” “Bad Time To Be In Love” & many more. odawacasino.com/entertainment/ mark-farner-live
WILLIE NILE BAND IN CONCERT: 8pm, Freshwater Art Gallery/Concert Venue, Boyne City. New York-born singer-songwriter Willie Nile’s album, “American Ride” won “Best Rock Album of the Year” at the Independent Music Awards. Willie has toured across the U.S. with The Who & has sung with Bruce Springsteen & Ringo Starr. His latest album is “The Great Yellow Light.” 231-582-2588. $45.
TRAVERSE AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY: 2pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. The goal of the Traverse Area Historical Society is to share local history of TC & the Grand Traverse region. This month’s speaker will be: Marty MacLeod - The Cradle of Traverse City: Slabtown. Free. tadl.org/event/traverse-area-historical-society-27847
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS FORUM & NATIONAL WRITERS SERIES PRESENT: AN EVENING WITH AZIZ ABU SARAH & MAOZ INON: 7pm, TC West Senior High School. Featuring “The Future is Peace: A Shared Journey Across the Holy Land.” GA: $20. tickettailor.com/events/nationalwritersseries/2007728
BELLAIRE WINTER FARMERS MARKET: Fridays, 9am-noon through May 8, ASI Community Center & Park, Bellaire. The Market
their lives that they confronted the wild, wacky, inexplicable, & absurd. $15. heresaystorytelling.com
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS FORUMRIGHTS OF NATURE: GLOBAL MOVEMENT, INDIGENOUS VALUES: 7pm, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. IAF explores the global Rights of Nature movement, rooted in Indigenous principles core to Great Lakes vitality. Join Tribal Attorney Frank Bibeau (in person) & Hugo Echeverria (virtual, from Quito). Grant funding provided by Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians. Tickets at TCIAF.com. $15 advance, $20 door, $10 livestream, free for current students & educators. tciaf.com/event-april-2026
thursday
“OLD HEART”: Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. Enjoy the northern Michigan premiere of this award-winning movie. Meet codirector Kirk Wahamaski, producer/screenwriter Roger Rapoport, & stars of the film after either the 3pm or 5pm showings. Shot in both west Michigan & the Netherlands, the film is based on the acclaimed novel by Peter Ferry & explores a 1944 romance between a now 85-year-old African American World War II veteran, who escapes assisted living to find his wartime love. Tickets are $15; free for students & veterans with current i.d. heartland-iff.org/tickets-to-movies/ special-screening-of-old-heart-the-movie
for patients, & played a key role in everyday life on the grounds. $15. thevillagetc.com/ events/tcshlecture3
JAZZ AT THE CITY OPERA HOUSE: 7pm, City Opera House, TC. Interlochen Arts Academy’s jazz students bring the sweet sounds of swing to TC. Join the Jazz Orchestra & Jazz Combo for a diverse program of standards & contemporary charts. $10$25. interlochen.org/events/jazz-city-operahouse-2026-04-16
friday
ADOPT-A-BEACH COMMUNITY CLEANUP:
2-3:30pm, Captain Thomas M. Kelly Biological Station campus lakefront, Suttons Bay. Help keep the Great Lakes shorelines healthy & beautiful. Please bring a reusable water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing, a 5-gallon bucket, &/or paper grocery bags with handles. adopt.greatlakes.org/s/cleanup/a2oPm000001fOx3/aab25159
Went-Ha Torch Lake Camp, Central Lake. 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.
EARTH WEEK TRASH CLEANUP WORKDAY: 10am-noon, Wildwood Harbor Nature Area, Boyne City. Celebrate Earth Week by helping remove litter & restore habitat at one of WLAC’s flagship preserves. walloon.org/ all-events/?event=3720
SOLO EXHIBITION: MARIE PARMER: 10am-6pm, Art on Union Gallery, TC. An established artist from Ann Arbor, Marie Parmer will be exhibiting her artwork for two days, sharing her inspiration, & talking with guests. Free. artonunion.com
PROTEST ISRAEL’S GENOCIDE AGAINST PALESTINE: (See Sat., April 11)
15 apr 16 apr 17 apr 19
SOLO EXHIBITION: MARIE PARMER: Art on Union Gallery, TC. An established artist from Ann Arbor, Marie Parmer will be exhibiting her artwork for two days, sharing her inspiration, & talking with guests. Reception held on Fri., April 17 from 4-7pm. Free. artonunion.com
TC COMEDY FEST: (See Thurs., April 16)
SPRING FAMILY CONTRA & SQUARE
DANCE: 6:30-9:30pm, Mills Community House, Benzonia. A fundraiser for the Benzie Area Emergency Fund. Live music by Lousie Brodie & Friends. The first half hour is a workshop. 231-651-0370. Suggested donation: $10-$20.
TART TRAILS’ SPRING WORK BEE: 10am-noon. TART Trails is hosting work bees at various locations along the trail network today. Get out & enjoy springtime on the trails & help get them ready for the summer season ahead. traversetrails.org/event/ tart-trails-spring-work-bee
SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK SINGALONG: 11am, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Join your Schoolhouse Rock friends for a singalong of all your favorites from childhood Saturday mornings. Free. tadl.org/SRsingalong
TC COMEDY FEST: (See Thurs., April 16)
sunday
COFFEE WITH THE AUTHORS: KAREN MULVAHILL: 1pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center. Author of “The Lost Woman,” Mulvahill sets her novel in 1940’s Paris, just as the Nazis storm the City of Lights. What follows is a tale of one young woman’s resistance, art theft, & a long-delayed effort to restore stolen paintings to their rightful owners. Free. glenarborart.org/product/coffee-with-the-authorskaren-mulvahill
COURAGE FOR DEMOCRACY, COURAGE FOR RACIAL JUSTICE: 1-3pm, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. The E3 Council & Better Together Series present two longtime social justice leaders - Denna Hayes-Green & Chris Crass. Listen as they share their own stories about working against racism & being part of justice movements.
FORMULA 1 FREE WATCH PARTIES: SAUDI ARABIA: 1pm, The Bay Community Theatre, Suttons Bay. Experience the thrilling races on the big screen! Featuring Formula 1 games. Doors open an hour before the start of each race. thebaytheatre.org/ home-page
PETOSKEY BUSINESS AFTER HOURS:
5-7pm, Odawa Casino Resort, Victories, Petoskey. Enjoy networking, food & a cash bar. Bring your business cards for a chance to win prizes. $10-$15. petoskeychamber. com/business-after-hours
BELLAIRE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS:
5:30-7pm, ASI Community Center, Bellaire. Network & enjoy complimentary light bites & drinks while getting an inside update on ASI’s plans for a new indoor community center — including proposed pickleball courts & additional activity spaces. Optional: Bring along a small donation item if you’d like to contribute to the door prizes. $3-$5.
TC COMEDY FEST: April 16-18. Held in seven venues in TC & featuring headlining comedians Gary Gulman, Roy Wood Jr., Meg Stalter & Sarah Sherman, & Joe DeVito. Others include Ryan Brown, Ren Dawe, Janelle Draper, Darrick Ervin II, Bri Giger, & many more. See web site for schedule & tickets. traversecitycomedyfest.com
TALK•PROTECT•REPORT™: DIGITAL
SAFETY: 6-7:30pm, Leelanau County Government Center, Suttons Bay. Learn practical tools to help protect children in today’s digital world. Free. traversebaycac.org/talkprotect-report-training
--
TRAVERSE CITY STATE HOSPITAL: 2026
LECTURE SERIES - PART 3: 6-7:30pm, The Village at GT Commons, Kirkbride Hall, TC. Catherine Allen-Goodwin presents “The Farm.” Long before modern supply chains, the Traverse City State Hospital relied on its own farm to feed patients & staff. The TCSH farm lecture looks at how agriculture supported the hospital’s mission, provided work
“ACTING CAN BE MURDER”: 7pm, Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall. Presented by the Elk Rapids Players, this production follows a community theater troupe where the offstage drama turns deadly. $15-$20. elkrapids.booktix.com
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE: 7:30pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. This fun comedy begins with a theater-loving narrator as a 1920s musical springs to life in his apartment featuring a wedding disrupted by gangsters, mistaken identities & a tipsy chaperone. $35 adults; $25 youth under 18. oldtownplayhouse.com/performances/mainstage/thedrowsy-chaperone.html
saturday
31ST ANNUAL MCLAREN
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
FAIR: 9am-1pm, Petoskey Middle School. Kids & families can participate in a super hero fun run, petting zoo, free health screenings, crafts & hands-on activities, free lunch & prizes, meet local first responders & explore emergency vehicles, & enjoy live music. Free. petoskeychamber.com/events/ details/31st-annual-mclaren-children-shealth-fair
NMC HERO RACE: 9am, NMC’s campus, TC. Proceeds support NMC’s College for Kids program & provide scholarships for local children. The event features a one mile fun run, 5K & 10K, plus games, food, awards & a Hero Award honoring community heroes. $0-$30. nmcherorace.com
APRIL EARLY CHILDHOOD FREE FAM-
THE 1ST MI COLORED REGIMENT: 4pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Historian & Executive Program Director of the Gospel Army Black History Group Maurice Imhoff will present his book, “The 1st Michigan Colored Regiment: FREE MEN WHO FOUGHT SLAVERY.” He will explore the formation, service, & enduring legacy of the 1st Michigan Colored Regiment - later designated the 102nd United States Colored Troops. Free. tadl.org/mauriceimhoff
“ACTING CAN BE MURDER”: (See Fri., April 17)
ONE LOVE REGGAE BAND LIVE IN CONCERT: 7-9pm, AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center, Grayling. Enjoy a night of rhythm, energy & island vibes. $30-$35. artisanvillage.org/events
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE: (See Fri., April 17)
MARK FARNER: SOLD OUT: 8pm, Odawa Casino Resort, Ovation Hall, Petoskey. Legendary all-American frontman & guitarist Mark Farner carried the original Grand Funk Railroad repeatedly to the top of the charts. His hits include “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home),” “We’re An American Band,” “Heartbreaker,” “Bad Time To Be In Love” & many more. odawacasino.com/entertainment/ mark-farner-live
WILLIE NILE BAND IN CONCERT: 8pm, Freshwater Art Gallery/Concert Venue, Boyne City. New York-born singer-songwriter Willie Nile’s album, “American Ride” won “Best Rock Album of the Year” at the Independent Music Awards. Willie has toured across the U.S. with The Who & has sung with Bruce Springsteen & Ringo Starr. His latest album is “The Great Yellow Light.” 231-582-2588. $45.
THE IDES OF MARCH (RESCHEDULED FOR APRIL!): 1-5pm. Roam the Village at Grand Traverse Commons for a free Shakespeare festival where food, drink, & live performance intertwine. You’ll move from venue to venue, encountering scenes, songs, & soliloquies. Between performances, linger over local wine & beer, enjoy Sunday fare, & soak in the historic atmosphere of the Commons. Free. theworldsastage.org/ides
“ACTING CAN BE MURDER”: (See Fri., April 17, except today’s time is 2pm.)
GREAT LAKES CINEMA SERIES: THE LORAX: 2pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. Dr. Seuss story comes to life in this colorful, family-friendly film that celebrates caring for the planet & standing up for what’s right. Pay what you can admission. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/the-lorax
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE: (See Fri., April 17, except today’s time is 2pm.)
TRAVERSE AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY: 2pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. The goal of the Traverse Area Historical Society is to share local history of TC & the Grand Traverse region. This month’s speaker will be: Marty MacLeod - The Cradle of Traverse City: Slabtown. Free. tadl.org/event/traverse-area-historical-society-27847
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS FORUM & NATIONAL WRITERS SERIES PRESENT: AN EVENING WITH AZIZ ABU SARAH & MAOZ INON: 7pm, TC West Senior High School. Featuring “The Future is Peace: A Shared Journey Across the Holy Land.” GA: $20. tickettailor.com/events/nationalwritersseries/2007728
ongoing
BELLAIRE WINTER FARMERS MARKET: Fridays, 9am-noon through May 8, ASI Community Center & Park, Bellaire. The Market apr 18
will move outdoors on May 15. areaseniorsinc.org/event/bellaire-winter-farmers-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
art
RETURN TO LIGHT: Runs April 10 – May 25 at Boyne Arts Center, Boyne City. This exhibit explores the many facets of illumination—from the first golden rays of a Michigan morning to the internal clarity of a new perspective. An opening reception will be held on April 10 from 5-7pm. Open Tues. through Sun., noon-4pm. boynearts.org/s/ stories/bac-spring-exhibit-return-to-light
--
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-arts-academystudent-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 & democratic institutions in America. On view through April 11. See web site for hours. thealluvion.org
ANNUAL YOUTH ARTS SHOW, TC: 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-youth-arts-show-traversecity.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:
- 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., noon4pm; 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.
“My mission is to ensure Michigan waters are protected. That's why I support the Great Lakes Tunnel. I think it's a vital step in ensuring access to reliable, affordable energy.”
Rachel Michigan resident and Enbridge Emergency Response Specialist
Visit enbridge.com/Rachel to watch the video.
Scan to watch
BOATER SAFETY CLASSES
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE U.S. COAST GUARD
BOATER SAFETY COURSE
Saturday • April 18
Saturday • May 16
Saturday • June 6
9am - 5pm
Get your boat knowledge up to speed - it’s all about keeping you and your vessel safe on the water! This boater safety class is for recreational boaters ages 12 and older. Topics covered include boating safety and safety equipment, emergency procedures, navigation rules and aids, and boating regulations.
NAVIGATIONAL AND GPS CHARTING COURSE
Tuesday May 19, 5pm 9am - 5pm
Explore the ins and outs of finding your way around using modern technology on the water! Learn how to interpret a nautical chart and navigate on the Great Lakes using basic coastal piloting techniques. You will also learn about basic GPS and navigational skills, and how to use computer electronic charts.
<< Scan here for more details and to reserve space!
MARINER KNOTS, BOAT RADIO & WEATHER COURSE
Thursday • May 7, 6pm
Join us for a fun and informative evening learning all about mariner knots, boat radio, and weather! Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just getting started, this event is perfect for anyone wanting to brush up on their skills or learn something new.
PADDLE SAFETY COURSE
Wednesday May 27, 6pm
Learn from the best about how to safely operate your kayak in and around the Northern Great Lakes! Topics will include weather conditions important to paddlers, info on life jackets, prevention of hypothermia, types of kayaks, important paddle and safety equipment, and planning a safe day trip.
There’s a Place for you on the water
Traverse Area Community Sailing offers youth and adult sailing programs all summer long for beginners through experienced sailors.
traverse area community sailing
Learn to Sail Summer Programs Community tacsailing.org
“Jonesin”
Crosswords
"Letters and Numbers" a few examples. by Matt Jones
RIGHT BRAIN BREWERY, TC 4/11 -- Comedy Night: Devarron Thomas feat. Hunter Miles; Hosted by John Reed, 8
TC WHISKEY CO. - THE STILLHOUSE
6-8: 4/11 -- The Fridays 4/17 -- Weston Buchan 4/18 -- Blair Miller
THE ALLUVION, TC 7:30: 4/11 -- Sheela Bringi & Elden Kelly wsg Nabin Shrestha 4/18 -- Anthony Stanco “In The Groove - Live At The Alluvion” Album Release
THE HAYLOFT INN, TC 7:30-11: 4/10-11 -- Sandy & The Bandits
Antrim & Charlevoix
4/17 -- Boone Doggies 4/18 -- Empire Highway
THE PARLOR, TC
4/11 -- Chris Sterr, 9 4/12 & 4/19 -- Music Bingo, 7-10
4/14 -- Jesse Jefferson, 8-11
4/15 -- John Richard Paul, 8-11
4/16 -- Jimmy Olson's Birthday Bash w/ Bauer Jones & Friends, 8-11
4/17 -- Rhett & John, 9 4/18 -- Loren Kranz, 9
THE PUB, TC
4/11 -- Highway North, 7-10; DJ Producer AJ, 10-11
4/13 -- Karaoke, 8
4/15 -- Zeke Clemons, 7-11
4/17 -- Henry Herig, 7-10; DJ Vai, 10-11:30
4/18 -- Jeff Linsell, 7-10; DJ Producer AJ, 10-11
THE WORKSHOP BREWING CO., TC
4/12 -- Full Tilt Comedy Presents: Comedy Lab, 6-8
4/13 -- USS Comedy Open Mic, 8-9:30
4/14 -- Open Mic w/ Zak Bunce, 6-9 4/16 -- DJ Trivia, 7-9
Send Nitelife to:
Bringing back to back performances in Harbor Springs, Fri. and Sat., April 17-18 are Ty Parkin & The Old Souls! Blending 90s country with a fresh northern Michigan edge, Northern Lights Recreation hosts them on Fri. from 6:30-9:30pm, followed by Pond Hill Farm on Sat. from 5-8pm.
Emmet & Cheboygan
BC LANES, BOYNE CITY 8: 4/11 – Timberline 4/18 – Yankee Station
BOYNE CITY TAPROOM 4/16 -- Adam & The Cabana Boys, 7 CAFE SANTÉ, BOYNE CITY 4/13 – The Shifties, 6-9
MUSKRAT DISTILLING, BOYNE CITY 8-11: 4/15 -- Karaoke Night 4/18 -- Seasonal Road
SHORT'S PUB, BELLAIRE 6-8: 4/15 -- Open Mic Night 4/16 -- Trivia
Leelanau & Benzie
BEL LAGO VINEYARD, WINERY & CIDERY, CEDAR
4/11 -- Bryan Poirier, 5-7
BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU
TASTING ROOM:
4/17 -- Bryan Poirier, 5:30-8
CEDAR TAVERN
4/11 -- Backwoods, 8-11
FIVE SHORES BREWING, BEULAH
6-8:
4/13 -- Monday Music Trivia
4/16 -- Trivia Thursdays
FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARD, CEDAR
4/16 -- Billy & The Kid, 3-6
IRON FISH DISTILLERY, THOMPSONVILLE
5:30-7:30: 4/11 – Luke Woltanski 4/17 – Brian Curran 4/18 – Alex Teller
LAKE ANN BREWING CO.
4/11 -- Fifth Gear Band, 7-10 4/15 -- Open Mic Night Hosted by Johnathon North, 6:30-9:30 4/16 -- Trivia Night w/ Host Tom Kaspar, 7-9
ODAWA CASINO RESORT, PETOSKEY VICTORIES, 9: 4/10-11 -- DJ Hotkeys 4/17 -- DJ T-Bone 4/18 -- Derailed
POND HILL FARM, HARBOR SPRINGS 5-8: 4/11 -- Pete Kehoe
4/18 -- Ty Parkin & The Old Souls
THE BEAU, CHEBOYGAN 7: 4/11 -- Gina & Jordan 4/17 -- Musicians Playground 4/18 -- John Piatek
THE WIGWAM, INDIAN RIVER 4/16 -- Dominic Fortuna, 7:309:30 4/17 -- Karaoke, 8-11
Manistee, Wexford & Missaukee
NORTHERN NATURAL CIDER HOUSE & WINERY, KALEVA 7: 4/11 -- Lynn Callihan 4/17 -- Chief Jam-Open Mic
ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY, GAYLORD 4/17 -- Mike Ridley, 6-9
Hosted by Cheryl Wolfram 4/18 -- Luke Woltanski
THE GREENHOUSE - WILLOW/ PRIMOS, CADILLAC
4/11 -- Silent Disco Dance Party, 8
Otsego, Crawford & Central
SNOWBELT BREWING CO., GAYLORD 4/11 -- Seth Bernard & Jordan Hamilton, 6-9 4/16 – Trivia Night
NORTHERN EXPRESS
CLASSIFIEDS
BRITTEN IS HIRING! Join Britten, a World Class Event Fabrication company. We’re hiring hands-on team members and will train the right people. Opportunities include print fabrication, foam sculpting, painting, welding, carpentry, and more! If you’re ready to jump in, apply at our careers page! https:// britteninc.com/careers
EXPERIENCED BARISTA Able to work in a fast paced environment & maintain quality drinks to the best customers in TC! Become part of our team, room to advance - shift lead, management opportunities. Coffeeandlotus@ gmail.com
PEACE RANCH CARETAKER FULL-TIME, LIVE-IN POSITION Seeking Ranch manager to oversee day-to-day facility operations & maintenance. Supportive of the non-profit mission & programming. Animal husbandry, valid DL, housing provided. http://www. peaceranchtc.com
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
VILLA’s LANDSCAPING & IRRIGATION & LAWN-CARE: Lawn care, Landscaping & Irrigation $45+/hr Call 231-499-6899 for FREE ESTIMATE!
SEWING, ALTERATIONS, MENDING & REPAIRS. Maple City, Maralene Roush 231228-6248
VETERAN
LUNCH AND LEARN
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 Suites” Turnkey Homes & Motel. Travelers/Construction crews 231633-5464
FRIDAY, MAY 8 11:30AM-1PM THURSDAY, JULY 16 11:30AM-1PM THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 11:30AM-1PM
Veterans and surviving spouses, come enjoy a lunch buffet on us while learning about the benefits that are available to you! Call 231-995-6070 to register.
Experience privacy, comfort, and convenience in this impeccably maintained ranch home, nestled on 10 serene, wooded acres just 20 minutes from downtown Traverse City. With 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, this inviting residence offers over 2,700 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space—ideal for hosting guests, working from home, and creating your own personal space with the finished bonus area. A cozy gas fireplace warms the spacious living area, while the fully finished lower level expands your options for relaxation and recreation. Step outside onto the new composite deck to enjoy the peaceful surrounding forest and frequent wildlife sightings. Car enthusiasts, hobbyists, and outdoor adventurers will appreciate the oversized garage and the additional pole barn featuring a 960 sq ft workshop. The landscaped yard, underground sprinklers, and generator connection add convenience and peace of mind. Nature lovers will enjoy direct access to nearby hiking and biking trails, with state land just a short walk away. Long Lake, Green Lake, Duck Lake, and Cedar Lake are all close by, offering endless opportunities for recreation. Only five minutes from Westwoods Elementary School. 793 West Long Lake Road | $695,000
