Northern Express - January 19, 2026

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HISTORIES & MYSTERIES

NORTHERN MICHIGAN’S WEEKLY • january 19 - january 25, 2026 • Vol. 36 No.03

Dry January doesn’t have to be so dry.

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letters Greetings from the Civil War, aka The Twin Cities I grew up in Traverse City and attended the local Catholic school. Traverse City was a beautiful place to be raised—quiet, orderly, wrapped in water and tradition. We did not have much diversity back then; most people looked alike, worshiped alike, spoke alike.

Nine years ago, I moved to the Twin Cities.

What I found here reshaped me. Diversity wasn’t theoretical—it was my neighbor, my coworkers, my bus driver, my favorite restaurant owner. Different languages hummed through grocery stores. Different cultures shared recipes, music, and stories. Minnesota has its own natural beauty—10,000 lakes, parks tucked right into the city, trails that heal you after a hard day. I feel safe here. Or at least, I used to.

Recently, that sense of safety has cracked.

We have watched a massive federal enforcement presence descend on our communities. What I’ve seen has shaken me: people with brown and Black skin harassed in public spaces, removed from their homes and vehicles, detained without clear explanation. A handful of “alleged” violent offenders are cited, while thousands live in fear. A woman is dead. A man has been shot. By the time you read this, there may be more.

What hurts my ears the most is the quiet that follows the chaos. Coworkers staying home. Friends canceling plans. The bus still runs, but the driver’s eyes are wary. Restaurants are closed, and children are staying home from school. There are flyers showing how to treat pepper spray or tear gas exposure.

This is not safety. “We the people” are under attack. Minnesota is not an outlier—it is a preview.

If you think this cannot reach Traverse City, you are fooling yourself.

I do not identify as Republican or Democrat. I identify as a humanitarian. The one thing that gives me hope is November. Voting is not abstract. It is how we speak when words fail. Show up. Stand up.

And please—stand with Minnesota as we endure this history-making moment.

Jenny Elmblad | Twin Cities Dangerous Words Greg Holmes’s guest opinion, “Sticks, Stones, and Dangerous Words,” reads less like a serious critique of free-speech principles and more like an argument for abandoning them—an argument that should not have been published without far more rigorous editorial scrutiny.

The essay treats the childhood maxim “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” as if it were a crude denial of emotional harm. It never was. The phrase emerged as a civic lesson: that speech, unlike violence, must be tolerated in a free society, even when it offends, insults, or wounds pride.

American constitutional law rests on that same premise. The First Amendment does not protect speech because it is gentle; it protects speech precisely because it is often unsettling or offensive.

Once subjective emotional injury becomes the measure of permissible expression, no speech is safe and no dissent survives.

Mr. Holmes repeatedly blurs this distinction by implying that words themselves are a form of violence, or at least close enough to justify treating them as such. Feelings, however deeply felt, are not facts—and they cannot be allowed to function as vetoes over speech.

History is instructive. It was not “mere words” that killed the journalists at Charlie Hebdo. It was the belief that offense authorizes punishment.

Societies that adopt that logic do not become more compassionate; they become more coercive.

Editors are free to publish opinions. But they also bear responsibility for recognizing when an argument, however fashionable, undermines the very freedoms that allow it to be printed in the first place.

Lawrence R. LaSusa | Traverse City

CONTENTS features

Eloise Corvo...............................................9 Seven Stops for History Buffs.................10 Voices Carry Forward..............................12 A Tale of Two Historic Buildings...............14

columns & stuff

Top Ten.................................................4 Spectator/Stephen Tuttle.........................6 Guest Opinion/Mulvahill..........................7 Weird..................................................8 Dates................................................16 Crossword.........................................20 Astrology..........................................20 Nitelife................................................21 Classifieds..........................................22

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 Finance Manager: Libby Shutler Distribution Manager: Roger Racine 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 Creative Director: Kyra Cross Poehlman Cover photo: Elk Rapids Cinema circa 1950s 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 Contributors: Ross Boissoneau, Anna Faller, Ellen Miller, Rachel Pasche, Stephen Tuttle

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Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 3

this week’s

top ten Slushy Outdoor Fun

There and Back Again

We’re going on an adventure! And there will be trolls, goblins, and giant spiders! But also good friends and better tales to tell. This January, the shy but intrepid hobbit Bilbo Baggins ends up on an epic journey with a group of dwarves to try to reclaim a stolen treasure from the mighty dragon Smaug right here in Traverse City. Old Town Playhouse’s Young Company presents The Hobbit Jan. 16-17 and 22-24 at 7pm, or Jan. 17-18 and 24 at 2pm. Tickets: $15-$22. oldtownplayhouse.com/youth-learning/performances/ the-hobbit.html

4 Hey, read It!

The Women of Wild Hill

Photo by Grand Traverse Bike Tours

Ready to get a little sloshy—we mean slushy? Local wineries and winter-weather hotspots are leaning into the season with a mix of winter fun and craft beverages.

On Saturday, Jan. 24, the Cross County Ski Headquarters in Roscommon hosts their Bavarian Ski Festival from 12-6pm, complete with a costume contest and German beer. Then, on Sunday, Jan. 25, head to Rove Winery just outside Traverse City from 1-4pm for their annual Sip & Sled, a family-friendly event with cocoa for the kiddos and fire pits for all. And snowshoers will have their pick of the litter with Snowshoe the Vines on Leelanau Peninsula (Jan 24; $79 includes the tour, rentals, and lunch; grandtraversebiketours.com) and Snowshoe Wine & Brew on Old Mission Peninsula (Jan. 25; $15 for the tour plus deals at stops like Jolly Pumpkin and Brys Estate; tcbrewbus.com/events).

If witchy sisters Brigid and Phoebe had their way, they’d never see each other again. Now a worldfamous actress and movie producer, Brigid Laguerre has shamelessly steered into the lucrative side of her death premonition gift; meanwhile, sunny Phoebe, a healer, has settled on a farm in Texas, crafting potent tonics and secret salves. They’re each too stubborn to address the hurt of their mother’s suicide years earlier, and silence feels like the only option. They might have achieved it, too, if their estranged pseudo-stepfather, media mogul Calum Geddes, hadn’t died. Turns out, his demise marks the actualization of an ancient prophecy wherein they, joined by Phoebe’s daughter Sibyl, have been tasked with righting mankind’s growing scourge.

But first, they must convene at the abandoned home of their ancestors: Wild Hill. Acclaimed author Kirsten Miller (The Change, Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books) is cursing more than just the patriarchy in her newest feminist fantasy novel, The Women of Wild Hill.

2 tastemaker

Sweet & Savory Pie Company’s Butter Chicken Curry Pot Pie

When you walk into Alanson’s Sweet & Savory Pie Company, be prepared to walk out with a stack of pastry boxes as high as your head. It was hard to choose just one to feature, but given the season, we went for the comfort food (with a twist!) of the Butter Chicken Curry Pot Pie ($15.95). Take all the cozy, filling warmth of a traditional chicken pot pie, and then level it up with the melt-in-yourmouth flavors of the classic Indian dish.

We’re talking garam masala, a touch of heat from peppers and cumin, and just the right amount of garlic. Not spicy, just…savory! (It appears the shop is aptly named.) Now, of course, do we recommend you at least get a slice of something sweet while you’re there—perhaps the Peach Raspberry to remind you of warmer days. Find them at 4577 Oden Road in Alanson or online at sspiecompany.com.

4 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

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Stuff We Love: Pathfinder’s Celebration of MLK Day

6 Eating Well This Winter

What’s a hibernating mammal to do except eat and sleep this time of year? We’ll leave the latter up to you, but for the former, winter is a spectacular time to experience the NoMi culinary scene. On Jan. 21 at 6pm, Iron Fish Distillery partners with The Cook’s House in Traverse City for a “field to bottle, plate to palate” five-course dinner. ($146 per person; cookshousetc.com/events.) In Charlevoix, Grey Gables will shake off the snow on Jan. 22 at 6pm for a Winter Wine Pairing Dinner. Wine expert Antonie Roudaut will be on hand to talk all things vino, and a menu of French fine dining awaits. ($85+tax and tip; visitcharlevoix.com/events/grey-gables-winter-wine-pairing-dinner.) And if you want to do some cooking of your own, Chateau Chantal offers a cooking class on Jan. 24 that’s all about handmade pasta and sauces. ($160 per person; chateauchantal.com/public-events.)

A Classical Connection

For 10 years, the Pathfinder School in Traverse City has been honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. not by taking the day off but with an MLK Day of Service. This year, students across all grade levels will spend Monday, Jan. 19, giving back to their communities in big and small ways. The presentation about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Early Childhood group will help collect AthePathfinder civil rights movement, and the Civil Rights Act. food and pack lunches for Lunches for Love, while kindergarteners will visit residents at Orchard Creek Nursing Home. First graders will help out in the baby pantry at Leelanau Christian Neighbors; second and third graders will volunteer with Project Feed the Kids; and fourth graders will host a food drive at Oleson’s Food Markets. Meanwhile, the fifth graders will participate in preparing, serving, and dining with residents at Munson Manor. Last but not least, the middle schoolers will choose between sharing their time at a local soup kitchen, Cherryland Humane Society, or Food Rescue of Northwest Michigan.

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Ever wish you had a dedicated concert buddy? Interlochen Public Radio has the solution with the launch of their Concertino Club, described as “a new initiative designed to bring together people who love classical music but don’t always have someone to attend concerts with.” The idea was inspired by community members who had lost their spouses and other built-in concert-going friends. Concertino Club offers a pre-show reception for folks to mingle before a classical concert. The club will debut on Jan. 30 at the City Opera House when the Invoke Quartet performs, with tickets (including the pre-show) going for $40 per person. The tickets are in a block, so you can sit next to a new friend for the show! IPR intends to continue the club with events “in the works” for April and July. Learn more and buy tickets at interlochenpublicradio.org.

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It’s all about elevated hospitality for Traverse-based mobile bar company Supreme Bar Service, and they’ve reached the beverage peak in their Maple Sea Salt Iced Espresso Martini. Inspired by the richly roasted and herbal notes of a Turkish brew (a nod to their upcoming coffee menu expansion), this winter cocktail features caramelly bourbon spiked with local maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt shaken with organic espresso and coffee liqueur. Served on the rocks and topped with a creamy layer of cardamom cold foam, it’s a robust and decadent treat grounded by a touch of floral spice. Get in touch with Supreme Bar Service at supremebarservice@gmail.com, and find them at their next pop-up at Darling Botanical (144 Hall St., Traverse City) on Jan. 24 from 3-6pm.

Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 5

ECONOMIC DELUSIONS

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By Stephen Tuttle According to our president, the United States was “dead” and the rest of the world “had no respect for us” and we had “no leadership.”

That was sort of the tip of a Trumpian iceberg of relentless negativity regarding the country and our last president.

He claimed he inherited the “highest inflation ever” with “everybody looking for a job.” Thank goodness our knight in gold-plated armor came to our rescue and now, according to him, we are “the hottest country in the world.” Uh-huh (maybe not so much in Venezuela, Colombia, Mexico, Cuba, Greenland, Iran, or Syria, all of which he’s either invaded, bombed, or threatened to invade or bomb).

We all surely recall we were told one of the many benefits of tariffs would be foreign companies would have to pay the U.S. Treasury a lot of money, and to avoid tariffs they would build factories here, boosting our manufacturing economy and creating jobs. If only at least some of that was true.

Foreign-based companies exporting to the U.S. don’t actually pay the tariffs at all. So if ABC Novelties exports a million tariffed ping-pong balls to Conglomerate Sports in the U.S., the American company pays

Every president makes economic promises that aren’t kept.

There is data, and plenty of it, or what are now popularly called receipts—evidence that what someone is saying doesn’t add up.

Let’s start with that “record high” inflation.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Minnesota has been keeping detailed tracking information on inflation since 1913. The highest annual rate ever recorded was 17.8 percent in 1917, and it peaked again at 13.5 percent in 1980, though there are some records of spikes as high as 34 percent during the Civil War. (During the Great Depression, deflation was the problem as supplies far outweighed demand.)

There was never anything vaguely close to record highs during Biden’s term. Supply chain miscues and energy costs plus exorbitant government bail-out spending raised inflation to an unacceptable 9.1 percent, and it remained high for too long.

But in January of 2025, when Trump was again inaugurated, inflation was 3.0 percent, and it is now 2.74 percent.

Then there’s unemployment. In January of 2025, when Donald Trump was sworn in, U.S. unemployment according to our Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics was 4.0 percent of the available, job-seeking population. It is now 4.4 percent, and was as high as 4.6 percent just last month.

The administration would like us to believe this is even a good thing because they have eliminated and continue to eliminate government jobs. Except the latest Labor Department numbers include actual job losses in the private sector including manufacturing, construction, and some services. Manufacturing job losses are especially troubling since we were promised a rebound in that sector.

6 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

2020, during the Trump Administration, unemployment hit 14.7 percent. The highest ever recorded was 24.9 percent in 1933 during the Great Depression.

As an interesting aside, the COVID pandemic skewed the unemployment numbers in both administrations. During Biden’s tenure, it reached 6.2 percent, but there is an irony here—in April of

the tariff at the port of entry. American companies have been absorbing as much tariff cost as possible, but smaller companies have little choice but to pass the increased costs to consumers. According to research on the impact of tariffs on consumers by Harvard social scientists and reported by the Tax Foundation, tariffs have increased consumer goods almost 5 percent and projections are for that to increase.

The Yale Budget Lab estimates tariffs will raise nearly $100 billion in 2025, but only about half will be absorbed by the importing companies and the rest will be passed on to consumers.

The left-leaning Center for American Progress reports small businesses spent about $500,000 on new tariffs in 2025 and expect to spend more this year. (The Small Business Administration generously defines “small business” as one with fewer than 500 employees.)

It’s troubling that the promise of a manufacturing boom tariffs were supposed to create has not come to fruition. There is some factory construction underway, but more than 100,000 manufacturing jobs were lost last year. In June, August, and October last year, we actually lost jobs overall, rare declines in employment and the first since the pandemic eased according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

You might also recall we were going to end that trade deficit since, according to the president, all those countries have been taking advantage of us and our “weak leaders” for decades. While the trade deficit was shrinking toward the end of 2025, it is still projected to be nearly eight percent higher than it was in 2024.

Every president makes economic promises that aren’t kept. But Trump’s outlandish claims of how bad it was when he took over and how great it is now are well beyond his usual hyperbolic nonsense and have drifted into delusion.

HOW’S YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION HOLDING UP? Student Guest Opinion

by Karen Mulvahill New Year’s resolutions are broken so quickly that Jan. 9 has been dubbed Quitters’ Day and Jan. 17 Ditch New Year’s Resolution Day. No wonder, since most of our resolutions involve denying ourselves things that give us pleasure, such as eating, drinking, and lying on the sofa.

In the post-holiday-season gray days of January, all I want to do is curl up under a blanket, sleep, and eat. A pleasant accompaniment to my hibernation is a book.

I propose supplanting one of your already shattered resolutions with a new one: Read more books. (When I refer to “reading” a book, I am including printed books, e-books, and audio books.)

Exposure to books improves our language proficiency, both understanding and communicating. This skill is essential to success in all walks of life. Problem-solving and analytical skills are also sharpened by reading. Consider the famous “locked-room mysteries,” in which someone is murdered, but the crime took place in a room to which no one had access. (See Edgar Allan Poe’s The Murders in the Rue Morgue for what’s considered the original story of this type.)

Only a patient and determined logic can unravel such a mystery.

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It has been said that we learn from history.

But what if we don’t read history? Or we

I propose supplanting one of your already shattered resolutions with a new one: Read more books.

Far from being a promise of self-denial, reading is a promise of self-enrichment. As such, it renders your couch-time guilt-free.

According to the latest data from the National Endowment for the Arts, less than half of American adults read even a single book a year (other than for work or school).

And the fiction-reading rate fell to its lowest in history, with only 38 percent of American adults reading one fiction book. (I just fell off my couch!)

Let me start with fiction, my favorite genre.

The American Psychiatric Association reports, “Our ability to infer and understand others’ thoughts and feelings, known as theory of mind (ToM), has important consequences across the life span, supporting empathy, prosocial behavior, and coordination in groups.”

Studies have shown that fiction readers have a better-developed theory of mind. By putting ourselves in the shoes of a variety of characters in books, we have greater understanding and empathy for people who may be different than we are. Could the decline in reading contribute to the current climate of misunderstanding and even hatred for others?

For a more self-centered view of the benefits of reading, there’s this: reading might actually help you live longer. Some studies have shown reduced mortality rates for readers. Perhaps because readers have learned more survival skills. Or their greater empathy has reduced the number of enemies who want to kill them.

Reading can be a cure for loneliness. The writer William Nicholson wrote, “We read to know we’re not alone.” Many of us can gain comfort from knowing that others have experienced the same difficulties as we have.

And it’s inspiring to learn how they overcame or came to terms with life’s challenges. Further, one can join a community of readers through book clubs. And you might find yourself invited to more dinner parties as you become a more knowledgeable and interesting guest.

read a sound-bite on a social media site and accept it as truth? When reading about historical subjects, one must be certain of the credibility of the writers.

Does the writer hold a degree in that particular subject, or have they spent years reporting on it? Do other credible sources recommend this book?

In researching my own historical novel, I read many books about WWII and never found a major discrepancy in the facts reported by historians and journalists who were acknowledged experts in their fields. Read a thousand sound-bites on social media, and you are likely to find just as many different versions of reality.

If you have children, encourage them to read and read aloud to them. The benefits include increased vocabulary, comprehension, emotional growth, creativity, concentration, memory, empathy, critical thinking, and more. Who would knowingly deny their child these advantages?

For non-book-readers, consider a 2026 goal of one book a quarter. At an average book length of 300 pages, that’s less than four pages a day.

For those who are already readers, consider increasing the number of books you read or branch out into different genres.

If you’d like a little topical guidance, I suggest putting yourself in the shoes of an immigrant in the novel American Dirt

by Jeanine Cummins, or the memoir Undocumented, by Dan-el Padilla Peralta.

In the learning from history category, read Fascism by Madeleine Albright.

For reading to children, or just to yourself, dip into the wonderful story by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince. Prop up your pillows, grab your blanket (and pets), and settle in for the guilt-free pleasure of reading.

Karen Mulvahill is a writer living in northern Michigan. Her new book, The Lost Woman, is now available.

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Compelling Explanation A Marion, Louisiana, resident called police in November to report a trespassing incident on her property, WKRC-TV reported on Jan. 8. When deputies arrived at the home, Elizabeth Sutton, 41, was swimming nude in the resident's pond. At first, Sutton refused to exit the pond, telling officers she was "trying to be a mermaid."

When she finally complied, medics evaluated her (because of the cold weather) and tried to lead her indoors. At that point, Sutton charged at a deputy, causing them to use their Taser. She kicked and punched the deputy before being subdued and taken to a hospital.

A warrant was issued for her arrest, and on Jan. 6, she surrendered and was charged with several crimes. [WKRC, 1/8/2026] The Tech Revolution Everything's up to date in Heber City, Utah, where the police department has been trying out an AI program that writes up reports based on body camera footage, Fox13-TV reported on Jan. 4. "I'm saving myself about six to eight hours weekly now," said Sgt. Rick Keel. But one report went a little sideways: The AI said an officer had shape-shifted into a frog. "The body cam software and the AI report writing software picked up on the movie that was playing in the background, which happened to be 'The Princess and the Frog,'" Keel said.

"That's when we learned the importance of correcting these AI-generated reports."

So much for all that saved time. [Fox13, 1/4/2026] Many hospitals single out the baby born closest to midnight as the new year turns over, as did Lifebridge Health's Carroll Hospital in Westminster, Maryland.

WMAR-TV reported that Hudson Oakley Winkler was the star this year, born just after midnight on Jan. 1. Hudson's parents didn't have any problem agreeing on a name for their new son; "Hudson's name was generated and selected using ChatGPT!" the hospital announced. Hudson's parents work in the county's police department and public school system. [WMAR, 1/4/2026]

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The Litigious Society In the new year's oddest legal twist, the National Rifle Association is suing the NRA Foundation, its own charitable arm, for trademark infringement and unfair competition. NBC News reported that on Jan. 5, the NRA alleged that the foundation passed "itself off to donors and the public as the NRA or an authorized NRA affiliate" and "misappropriat(ed) the many millions of dollars that NRA supporters contributed."

The lawsuit reveals ongoing internal turmoil within the NRA and its foundation. [NBC News, 1/5/2026] Buried Treasure About 500 miles north of Perth, Australia, local Quoin Sellenger got a tip last week from a friend who was diving in the crystal-clear Indian Ocean: There was a safe in the seabed.

So, ABC News reported, Sellenger and his daughter headed up to the site. They lifted the heavy box onto the back of their Jet Ski and took it back to land, where he posted a photo on Facebook in search of the owner.

Sellenger then recruited his friend Brad to help break into the safe, which was emitting

a strong smell. "I was hoping there was like a big gold bar in there, I guess," Sellenger said.

But alas, the only treasure was an expired and pungent package of beef jerky. "It's a very wellknown reef in Shark Bay, and someone has put it there with the intention of it being found, I believe," Sellenger said. He has handed over the safe to the Western Australia police. [ABC News, 1/6/2026] Need a Job? Smithsonian magazine reported on Jan. 7 that the British Museum has a job opening: dedicated treasure hunter. In 2023, the museum revealed that 1,500 of its Greek and Roman artifacts had been stolen, were missing or had been damaged. The items include gems, glass and jewelry dating back to between the 15th and 19th centuries B.C. "We want to get as much staffing as we can to try and push ahead," said Thomas Harrison, head of the museum's Greek and Roman collections. About 600 pieces have been recovered already after being listed on eBay or coming up for auction. No information on the qualifications for such a position, although owning a fedora and whip couldn't hurt. [Smithsonian, 1/7/2026] Bright Idea A Chinese shopping center has solved its problem of people smoking in the restrooms, Oddity Central reported on Dec. 31. The Shuibei International Center posted signs reading, "Smoking makes the glass transparent."

And sure enough, when smoke is detected, the special doors become see-through. "Resist the urge to smoke, unless you want to become internet famous!" reads another sign. When the glass clears, a loud announcement rings out: "This is a public place where smoking is prohibited. For your own health and the health of others, please do not smoke here." One social media commenter posted, "Smoking in men's restrooms in China is practically ubiquitous.

I think this is a great idea." [Oddity Central, 12/31/2025] Wait, What?

Folks in Camden, New Jersey, head to Donkey's Place for their famous cheesesteaks, but it's another of their icons that has the restaurant in the news. NJ.com reported on Jan. 7 that someone pilfered their walrus baculum -- that'd be a penis bone -- and owner Rob Lucas Jr. wants it back. Lucas said it's a conversation piece and he often lets people guess what it is. Here's how it went down: "The bartender handed it out for them (customers) to figure out what it was," Lucas said. "She went to the back to do something else and then one dude stole it. We got his picture, but I don't think he's from around town." Lucas said he doesn't want to press charges. "We just want the thing back." [NJ.com, 1/7/2026] Fish Story Popular Japanese sushi chain Sushizanmai made news on Jan. 5 when its parent company paid $3.24 million for a single bluefin tuna, Reuters reported. It was the highest price ever paid at the Toyosu fish market in Tokyo. "I thought that (the winning bid) would come in a little bit lower," said Kiyoshi Kimura, the company's CEO, who is also known as the Tuna King. The 536-pound fish was transported to the chain's headquarters, then sliced up and distributed to its restaurants.

[Reuters, 1/5/2026]

A Mystery Set Just a Stone’s Throw Away Inside the fictional world of Eloise Corvo

By Rachel Pasche Meet one of Traverse City’s sort-of-secret authors, Grace Edinger. You may recognize her pen name, Eloise Corvo, from her first (but not last!) published novel, Off the Beaten Path, a cozy mystery set in a fictional town that closely resembles northern Michigan.

The book was one of the best-selling books at local bookstores this summer.

When Edinger moved to Traverse City in 2020, she found solace and peace in a newly developed writing practice. “Writing is a wonderful hobby you can do alone, anywhere, at any time. I participated in a challenge that year to write a first draft of a book during the month of November, and that first book [a fantasy novel] was really where my passion for writing began,” Edinger says.

Her husband gifted her a set of mysteries for Christmas that year, and she latched onto the genre. “I started reading more analytically, having written a book, and decided it was something I could do. I also realized this area is the perfect setting for a mystery novel.”

Empire and Elk Rapids Inspiration Edinger grew up in suburban metro Detroit and spent summers at a family cabin in Elk Rapids. She’s always harbored a dream of moving to northern Michigan. When the opportunity arose, she and her husband made the move and haven’t looked back.

“I started writing again that winter, this time with the intention of writing a cozy mystery set in the area. The more I explored the region, the more the ideas flowed for me and the setting sort of materialized in my mind. The whole thing came together so

quickly, I think I spent six weeks on the first draft and sold it a year later to a publisher.”

Here’s the official synopsis for Off the Beaten Path: Stone’s Throw State Park Ranger Maudy Lorso spends her days playing cards and sipping drinks with her millennial gal pals, hiking steep sand dunes with her scruffy dog, Martin Short, and trying to ignore the pain of a recent, devastating breakup.

After building a quiet life in the Lake Michigan coastal village of Stone’s Throw, Maudy’s emotional safety net is turned inside out when her boss informs her of looming budget cuts that threaten to permanently close the park—and eliminate her job. Determined to prove the park’s value, Maudy throws herself into organizing a successful campground opening weekend, just one week away.

But when the body of a missing tourist is discovered in the park, her hope of saving Stone’s Throw State Park quickly begins to fade. In order to save her dream job and maintain her quirky, quiet life, Maudy jumps in to solve the murder of the dead man.

Stone’s Throw, the fictional town in which the book is set, is most similar to Empire, Edinger says, and there are a few Easter eggs in there for anyone familiar with the area. For example, the coffee shop in Stone’s Throw is called Java Jones, and that was what the coffee shop was called in Elk Rapids when Edinger would spend summers there as a girl. The park is obviously an homage to Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the seasonal tourism associated with it closely reflects the similar situation in northern Michigan.

Launch Party Success For Edinger, the most surreal moment of the entire experience was the book launch party and seeing so many people she didn’t know show up to support her and express their excitement.

“I didn’t know more than half the people there, and that was really amazing to me to see my book in their hands, to discuss the story with them, and to sign their books.

Seeing their enthusiasm about my story was really special. It really drove home that I was part of this community that I had tried so hard to cultivate; it was such a warm and fuzzy moment.”

One of the attendees of the launch party was a previous supervisor of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, who approached Edinger to express their appreciation for the setting and how well the park was described in Off the Beaten Path.

“The book has been received really well by most people,” Edinger says. “I think part of that is because I put so much time and care into the setting, and people really resonate with seeing this special and unique area reflected in a book.”

The plan, Edinger says, is to make a Stone’s Throw trilogy. She’s already begun work on the second book, titled Tunnel Vision, which is set to take place about a month after Off the Beaten Path. Readers can expect lots of spooky, autumnal, Halloween vibes from the sequel.

“These books are really a love letter to this region. It’s born out of finding my place up here and admiring the resilience of the people who choose to live up here. That’s what the messages really are; it should be

fun escapist literature for people who love this area and setting,” Edinger says.

What’s Up Next As for other works, Edinger would love to one day publish a horror novel, something old school and scary in all the right ways, she says.

“I’ve written four books at this point, and I feel like I learn a lot and gain tons of experience with each go around. Horror books were my first love, and it would be so cool to one day have a horror novel of my own published.”

We’re guessing she has the chops: In addition to books, Edinger writes custom games, including murder mysteries, mystery party games (think “Mafia” but more tailored and unique!), and smallgroup mystery boxed games. Each game is custom-made for your group based on group size, skill level, and other preferences.

The next installment of the Stone’s Throw Mysteries is expected to be released later this year. Fans of Eloise Corvo’s work can find her books in most local indie bookstores in the area, including Horizon Books in Traverse City.

“I’ve always been a huge fan and supporter of small indie bookstores, and seeing my name on the shelves has been such a dream come true. I get excited every time I see my book on a shelf in a store,” Edinger says.

For more information on Eloise Corvo and her books, short stories, and custom games, visit eloisecorvo.com.

Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 9

Seven Stops for History Buffs Explore local culture in Leelanau & Benzie counties

By Ellen Miller When you’re not in the mood for bundling up and going outside, winter is a great time to learn about local history. We headed to Benzie and Leelanau counties to find the museums, galleries, and other hotspots that tell the tales of days gone by.

Point Betsie Lighthouse

Benzie Area Historical Museum

BENZIE >> STOP #1: << Benzie Area Historical Society & Museum 6941 Traverse Ave, Benzonia With more than 37,000 artifacts, the Benzie Area Historical Museum tells the history of Benzie County since 1869. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum offers several special exhibitions per year and a lecture series. Open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 11am4pm or by appointment. benziemuseum.org >> STOP #2: << Oliver Art Center 132 Coast Guard Rd., Frankfort The Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts in Frankfort is open TuesdaySaturday 10am-4pm and Sunday noon-4pm.

Admission to the gallery is always free! In 2011 the organization moved to its current location at the United States Coast Guard Station in Frankfort, offering a unique opportunity to glimpse art and history sideby-side. oliverartcenterfrankfort.org Honorable Mention: Elberta Labor Heritage Center Founded in 2021 to preserve Elberta’s history and heritage, this organization is in the process of establishing its permanent home. In 2025, the Elberta Labor Heritage Center & WUWU Community Radio conducted a fundraiser to purchase the property currently occupied by the Elberta Mercantile. In the meantime, interested community members can engage through its ongoing oral history project. elbertalaborheritagecenter.org

Old Art Building

LEELANAU >> STOP #3: << Philip A. Hart Visitor Center 9922 W Front St, Empire The gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the visitor center in Empire is THE spot to learn about the park, along with the natural and human history of the area. Grab your park pass there, chat with rangers, and then go explore the dunes!

Winter hours are daily 9am-4pm. nps.gov/ slbe/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm >> STOP #4: << Old Art Building, part of the Leelanau Community Cultural Center 111 S Main St, Leland True to its name, the Old Art Building in Leland is over 100 years old! Now a community gathering place that promotes cultural enrichment, anyone can tap into their creative side through art classes or explore ongoing art and history exhibits.

The Old Art Building is also home to the Fishtown Writers’ Circle, which meets monthly. oldartbuilding.com >> STOP #5: << Leelanau Historical Society Museum, also part of the Leelanau Community Cultural Center 203 E Cedar St, Leland Visitors to the Leelanau Historical Society Museum can learn about Leelanau County life and maritime history through collections and archives containing more than 20,000 items.

10 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

Winter hours are Wednesday-Friday 11am4pm (call ahead in inclement weather). Don’t miss the upcoming storytelling event Meet Me at the Loaf: A Celebration of Sugar Loaf in Stories, Jan. 29, at 6:30pm at Solon Township Hall in Cedar. This ticketed event ($20) celebrates the legacy of Sugar Loaf Mountain. leelanauhistory.org >> STOP #6: << Grand Traverse Lighthouse 15500 N Lighthouse Point Rd, Northport Located inside Leelanau State Park, the restored keeper’s dwelling and lighthouse are open seasonally for visitors to learn about life as a lighthouse keeper during the 1920s and 1930s. While the museum is closed in the winter, visitors can still view the exterior of the lighthouse while walking around the park, plus explore the area via snowshoe hikes. The parks service has also offered a winter virtual lecture series on Zoom; check back for 2026 dates. grandtraverselighthouse.com >> STOP #7: << Omena Historical Society & Museum 5045 N West Bay Shore Dr, Omena While this museum, perhaps best known for its non-human mayoral race, is only open seasonally, it offers several virtual exhibitions to explore on cold winter days!

Though the official re-opening day is June 19, 2026, the museum hosts Community Coffee Hour every Thursday at 10am and Men’s Coffee Hour at 8:30am on Friday mornings. omenahistoricalsociety.org

CHECK BACK IN SPRING These local spots are closed for the winter, so be sure to circle back in the spring when they reopen!

Empire Area Museum: This hyper-local museum features a small store and two large floors of exhibits. Typically opens in June.

Maritime Museum: Learn about the early days of life on Lake Michigan at the Sleeping Bear Point U.S. Life-Saving Service Station in Glen Arbor. Typically opens around Memorial Day. Point Betsie Lighthouse: At this Frankfort lighthouse, you can visit the original 1858 keeper’s residence, plus climb the lighthouse’s stairs. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, rent the keeper’s quarters! Typically opens mid-May. Port Oneida Heritage Center: Explore the Charles and Hattie Olsen Farmhouse and barn located within Sleeping Bear Dunes to learn about some of the earliest pioneers in northern Michigan. Typically opens in June.

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Photos courtesy of Building Bridges with Music

Voices Carry Forward Building Bridges with Music’s MLK Day 2026

By Anna Faller Longtime musician and founder of Traverse City nonprofit Building Bridges with Music (BBwM) Jeff Haas was only nine or 10 years old when he first heard Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. attribute the root of human action to love or fear.

Haas believes love is always the right choice, so BBwM has made a mission of cultivating connection, both through community programming, which aims to unite participants through shared creative experiences, as well as events like annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on Jan. 19.

The gathering will take place from 10am8pm at the Commongrounds Cooperative in Traverse City with a day of activities for all ages designed to highlight Dr. King’s teachings through spoken word.

“My belief is that music, arts, and culture help us understand our own capacity to love,” Haas says. “We’re just trying to do our part to enrich our community…”

About Building Bridges with Music Building Bridges with Music, which turns 30 in 2026, was born through the Detroit music scene of the mid-1990s.

At the time, Haas, an active composer, had received a commission that he and his jazz quintet didn’t have adequate space to produce. Detroit Public Schools, however, did, which the group was able to utilize in exchange for answering students’ questions during rehearsal.

“All of their questions were, ‘How did you meet?’ and ‘Do you like the same kinds of music?’” he says. “That really planted the seeds in my mind for the potential this program had in terms of creating understanding and connection between people.”

By the end of 1996, the program had traveled north to Traverse City eventually reaching schools as far as Antrim, Benzie, and even Marquette. Haas says BBwM has worked with every school in the Traverse City Area Public Schools district at least six times, and as of the 2025-26 school year, facilitates workshops for all 17 elementary schools.

12 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

Haas, however, is careful to note that Bridges isn’t a music program.

Instead, he says, the nonprofit uses music and creative arts to engage students in conversations surrounding the importance of humanistic values, like open-mindedness and respect. Its initiatives include workshops, which combine music and storytelling to spark discussion in larger groups of thirdthrough-fifth graders; Sisters in Jazz, a mentorship program for women and nonbinary youth helmed by jazz artists Marion Hayden and Laurie Sears; and more recently, poetry workshops, the latter of which form the framework for this year’s MLK celebration theme, Voices Carry Forward.

Community and Connection Though BBwM has sponsored an annual event celebrating MLK for more than two decades, the 2026 celebration will be the first that also celebrates poetry.

The inspiration comes, in part, from Haas’s boyhood memories of experiencing Dr. King’s speeches and the power of a human rights

defense that separated religion from politics.

“It was a very important part of our country’s history to focus on civil and human rights across the aisle without politics in mind,” he says. “This theme is our way of saying let’s focus on the teachings of Dr. King, but also hear from voices of future generations about what those teachings mean and what they inspire in young people.”

It’s also an opportunity to feature the work of BBwM’s poetry students. Developed to provide safe spaces for area students to express themselves, the nonprofit’s poetry workshops connect award-winning poets and resident artists Peace Bell and Joel Fluent Greene with local secondary students for lessons in creating and sharing poetry.

As BBwM Director of Operations and Programming Madelynn Brady highlights, those efforts also facilitated a recent collaborative poetry and art project through TCAPS, “Connected Voices, Collective Voices,” which included student compositions on MLK-centric topics, like compassion, empathy, and peace.

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Even littles can start learning about Dr. King's work with a special story time at Commongrounds.

A Call to Commitment As for the rest of the day? Festivities kick off at 10am at Commongrounds with a special MLK edition of Miriam Pico’s Mindful and Musical class, wherein pre-K kiddos and other youngsters can explore music and movement through Dr. King’s messaging. The following hour marks the start of an all-day collaborative art project, headlined by hands-on activities like realtime writing and a giant magnet board, with local art teacher Laura Adams at the helm.

From noon to 2pm, onsite dining venue Riverside is serving a free-to-thepublic community lunch, complete with student volunteers. Meanwhile, a trio of Haas’s longtime collaborators—Joe Wilson (trombone), Kevin LaRose (tuba and bass), and Jimmy Oleson (keyboards)—will be playing traditional spirituals and “funky rock-jazz.” “[The idea] is that the air is filled with love and spirituality inspired by Dr. King,” Haas explains.

In the afternoon, poetry takes center stage with a two-hour block dedicated to performances from Greene, Bell, and a cohort of Northport students who’ve been working since September on poems surrounding the progression of modern society. The day concludes with a rhythmic bang in a free (but ticketed) event featuring Detroit Poet Laureate Jessica Care Moore and guitarist Kenny Watson at The Alluvion.

“It’s a way to bring in some of the music surrounding the time of the Civil Rights Movement and everything that encompasses who MLK was as a figure,” Moore says. “[Creating] art is a way of finding your tribe and finding your peace. It’s what connects us and what has to keep us moving forward.”

Knowing how to move forward, though,

can feel uncertain without a clear call to action to follow.

“In past years [of MLK events], people have walked up to me and said, ‘That was really engaging and heartwarming, but what now?’” Haas says.

This year, though, the message is clear: “we’re asking for commitment” to enrich the lives of others through daily acts of kindness (which could be as small as a genuine smile, helping with groceries, holding the door, etc.). “It’s a daily commitment to small acts of kindness that add up to real change in our community,” Haas adds.

“Humanity is something we have in common, and it’s something that Dr. King stood for,” Brady concludes. “Talking about his message of love over fear gives us hope for a future where we’re all unified.”

Find the Commongrounds Cooperative at 414 E. Eighth St. in Traverse City. For more information, visit buildingbridgeswithmusic.org.

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To accompany this year’s event, 86 of those poems, each paired with another student’s visual rendering, will adorn the walls of the Commongrounds building, alongside a massive quilt installation comprising hundreds of TCAPS art students’ creations.

“We were going for this emotion to be evoked with a lot of students coming together to create a large message of community, connection, and interwoven passion,” Brady says. “It’s going to be a sight to see.”

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More for MLK Day

MLK Day festivities are also on the 2026 docket for Northern Michigan E3, a local nonprofit and anti-racism taskforce whose mission surrounds promoting equity and diversity in northern Michigan.

Join them in practice of the three E’s—education, engagement, and elevation—as they relate to the life and teachings of MLK for their annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Walk and Celebration on Jan. 17. The march kicks off at 1:30pm at Rotary Square (that’s the corner of Union and State streets), before continuing on to The Alluvion. The day’s itinerary also includes a fireside conversation with retired government attorney (and Northern Express opinion contributor) Isiah Smith, Jr., and a subsequent social hour at Bushell’s Kitchen and Cocktails.

All event proceeds go towards the support of other E3 programs, including the I Have a Dream Scholarship Fund. For more information or to join the event, visit northernmichigane3.com.

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Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 13

A Tale of Two Historic Buildings 2025 was a rocky year for HERTH and the Elk Rapids Cinema.

What comes next in 2026?

By Ross Boissoneau For one iconic building in Elk Rapids, a 2025 controversy has largely subsided.

But for another it continues, as ownership transitions for both the town hall and the Elk Rapids Cinema resulted in fraught relations in the Antrim County village and township.

After a heated bidding war, the Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall—HERTH for short— is now owned by the Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall Association (HERTHA). (There is still a mortgage on the building, which led one member of the township board to predict that in a year it would be owned by the bank.)

Across town, the Elk Rapids Cinema is now in the hands of the Chalfonte Foundation. What is still to be determined is the tax-exempt status of the property, including the home behind the theater also owned by the foundation.

High-Bidding for HERTH The history of Elk Rapids Town Hall dates to its construction in 1883. In the years since, it has not only housed government offices but has also been a roller rink, high school gym, museum, site for stage plays, and more. It has survived multiple suggestions of demolition, and in 1972 it was listed on Michigan Register of Historic Sites.

Five years later, it was added to the National Register of Historic Sites.

HERTHA was formed in 2009 and had been leasing the space from the township since 2012. Last year, the Elk Rapids Township Board decided to sell the property, citing the costs of insurance and maintenance. Trustee Richard Hults said

the hall needed over $250,000 in immediate repair costs.

The township listed the property for sale at $700,000, though it had been appraised at $525,000. Realtor Dan Stiebel presented four offers he had received for the property, though by the time the Board met in August to consider them, there were only two: HERTHA’s bid of $625,000 (increased from its original offer of $525,000, with an escalation clause up to $604,000) and that of Alivia and Sam Barnsley, who offered $700,000.

The Barnsleys’ plan was to use the building as a residence as well as to host community events. However, using it as a residence would have required rezoning the property to allow residential use, which the village refused to do, prompting the township to consider pursuing litigation against the village.

The township board eventually voted 3-2 to sell to HERTHA for $625,000. Trustee Hults was one of two votes against the sale, and said at the time, “I would say we’ll be sitting here a year from today and Alden Bank [HERTHA’s mortgage lender] will own the building.”

Rob Ford says that statement hasn’t been forgotten. “I think [for] a lot of people in town that didn’t go unnoticed,” says Ford, who serves as HERTHA’s de facto historian.

Ford, who also co-founded the Elk Rapids Players, says the one constant in all the performances that have taken place at HERTH, including those by music groups, former local theater group Parallel 45, performers from Old Town Playhouse, and the Elk Rapids Players, has been the character of the hall itself.

14 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

“The building is the star of the show,” he says, citing its acoustics, sightlines, and grandeur.

Ford says the community largely rallied around HERTHA in its efforts to purchase the property, including appealing to the village’s planning commission and council to not approve rezoning the property. “The public outcry was ‘No,’ and the village denied it [the request].”

HERTH in 2026 William Cron, who serves as the events director, says the organization is now focused on the next chapter of the town hall’s life. The building is still rented for weddings, showers, parties, meetings, and other community gatherings. “We have several rentals booked for 2026 already,” says Cron.

The Elk Rapids Players Theater Company continues to use the hall as home base for its theater productions. The organization is planning two shows for this year, a summer youth theater camp, and the continuation of its monthly community trivia nights.

HERTHA is also continuing efforts to repair and maintain the 142-year-old building, including work on the roof, windows, brick exterior, and electrical system. Fortunately, the entire roof doesn’t need to be replaced.

“We need some shingles and gutters.

We don’t need a whole roof,” says Karen Morris, the president of HERTHA. “We’re still working on the windows. They’re so expensive,” she says, as they want to maintain the building’s historic aspect, which can require custom work.

She says she and the board are gratified

at the way the bulk of the community came together. So at least for now the drama at the town hall will be confined to the stage.

Theater & Taxes Across the village, the constants of death and taxes have led the Elk Rapids theater’s owner, the nonprofit Chalfonte Foundation, to appeal the township’s recent decision to not grant its properties tax-exempt status.

The theater was opened in 1940, and in 1973 Joe Yuchasz purchased it. When he died in 2023, it was put up for sale, and it was purchased later that year by the Chalfonte Foundation.

Per reporting from our sister publication The Ticker last summer, “While it’s common practice in Michigan for nonprofit-owned theaters to have tax exemptions—local examples include the Traverse City State Theatre, the Bay Theatre in Suttons Bay, and the Garden Theater in Frankfort—Elk Rapids Township denied the Chalfonte Foundation’s application for an exemption in a February 13, 2024, email to the foundation.”

Aaron Timlin, the CEO and president of the Chalfonte Foundation, says the organization is currently in the appeals process with Elk Rapids Township.

“The case was dismissed on a procedural issue related to timing, and we are now working through the next steps,” he says.

“We remain confident that the property qualifies for exemption based on its nonprofit, educational, and cultural use.”

The Ticker also reported that Elk Rapids Village Manager John Matthews was part of a competing effort to buy the Elk Rapids Cinema in 2023. The foundation claims

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Matthews was involved in a decision to deny tax exempt status to the theater, citing correspondence obtained through a FOIA request between Matthews and Township Assessor Karleen Sempert. Timlin calls that a clear conflict of interest. The two discussed the short-term rental of the Chalfonte House, with Matthews inferring that rentals of the home meant the foundation was operating as a for-profit.

“After discussion with the Village Administrator [Matthews] and others, it has been determined that the Cinema is not being used solely for charitable purposes,” wrote Sempert in the email. “Therefore, the exemption is not being granted.”

Fr. James Meyer, aka “Jimeyer,” started the Chalfonte Foundation in 2000 in Detroit, focusing on supporting the wellbeing of children and ending childhood poverty.

The foundation supports organizations and programs like the Contemporary Art Institue of Detroit, Cass Café, and the coming-soon Detroit Broadcasting Company, among other efforts in Detroit. It also owns Camp Chalfonte at The Ryan Giannini Park near Torch Lake, Shepherdswork Farm & School in Clare County, and Chalfonte House in Elk Rapids.

Timlin, whose parents were longtime friends of the priest, is a graduate of the Kennedy Center’s arts management program and has held memberships and offices in several public and private organizations, including the Ferndale Arts & Culture Commission and the Forum for Contemporary Art at the Detroit Institute of Arts. After Meyer died, Timlin moved his family from Detroit to Elk Rapids. He lives in one of the three living spaces in the Chalfonte House in lieu of taking a salary from the foundation.

Elk Rapids Cinema (and More) in 2026 “We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing,” says Timlin as he looks forward to the New Year. “It’s just a little more challenging with $12,000-$14,000 in property taxes.

Uncapping the taxes threw us for a loop. It’s not just current but retroactive to Jimeyer’s

death” in February 2021.

While working through the tax dispute, Timlin anticipates an exciting year ahead across three vectors. “Chalfonte owns and operates the cinema, Village Radio, and The Platform,” he explains.

Village Radio is a nonprofit radio station that broadcasts on 99.7 FM and streams worldwide, serving as a hotspot for arts, culture, education, and storytelling. Timlin says its streaming capability will expand its reach well beyond northern Michigan.

The Platform performance venue has featured shows by the likes of FrenchAlgerian jazz guitarist Pierre Bensusan and is set to host Scotland’s Tannahill Weavers March 26.

“We’re also in the process of finalizing dates for our 2026 concert series on The Platform and beginning development of a live radio variety show; something inspired by the spirit of programs like ‘The Jack Benny Show’ and ‘A Prairie Home Companion’, blending music, storytelling, and community voices,” Timlin says.

The cinema is continuing to showcase both first-run and classic movies as well as special films, such as the documentary All Too Clear: Beneath the Surface of the Great Lakes, which showed Jan. 14 showing, followed by a discussion regarding Great Lakes ecology and the issues explored in the film.

The theater has also received a grant from the Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for $17,896.20 to support the restoration of the theater’s marquee and other exterior lighting enhancements.

The grant will help fund a comprehensive restoration of the 1940 art deco marquee, including the return of neon lighting, upgraded illumination for the glass block tower, and a new digital display mimicking traditional 1940s letterboard styling.

The façade improvement project is budgeted at approximately $55,000. In addition to the DDA award, the Chalfonte Foundation has secured a $10,000 matching contribution from the Jimeyer Trust and is launching a $27,000 community capital campaign to complete the project.

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Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 15

jan 17

motherhood. There will be prizes for the top Saturday 3 places, with the grand prize being a Breville COMMUNITY CANVAS: Barista Express! mundosroastingco.com/

Featuring The Downtown TC Community Mural Reveal. Explore downtown TC through art & culture during this free, self-guided creative crawl happening all day. Follow a map of public art & merchant activations at your own pace, & enjoy CTAC’s Winter Exhibits Opening Reception (3-5pm). downtowntc. com/community-canvas - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - FROZEN FOOT RACE: Eastern Elementary School, TC. Includes a 5 Mile Frozen Foot Race (9:30am) & 1 Mile Fun Run (9am). $5-$30. TC Track Club members run for free. runsignup.com/Race/ Register/?raceId=13155 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - BOOK HANDOUT & BATTLE OF THE BOOKS KICKOFF: 10am-4pm, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Assigned times.

The Battle of the Books Tournament will be held on April 11 at TC West Senior High. battleofthebooksgt.org/important-dates - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - FAT & FLURRIOUS 2026: 10am, Avalanche Mountain Preserve, Boyne City. 10th Annual Fat Bike Race. You will race from downtown Boyne City up to Avalanche bike trails.

You’ll do 1-3 laps before crossing the finish line & returning to town for the afterparty at Stigg’s Brewery. Each lap is around 7 miles, & the course consists of single track mixed with two track. $70. runsignup.com/race/mi/ boynecity/fatflurrious - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - 16TH ANNUAL WINTER TRAILS DAY: 10:30am, Timber Ridge Resort, TC. Join for a fun, family-friendly day of winter trail activities. TART Trails is teaming up with the Record Eagle, Vasa Ski Club, Brick Wheels, NMMBA, Suttons Bay Bikes and Timber Ridge Resort to offer free trail access & free fat tire bike, cross country ski & snowshoe demos. traversetrails.org/event/wintertrailsday - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - SIPS & SOUPS!: Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. Held noon-5pm, Jan. 16-18. For $40, attendees will receive a 2 oz. pour of selected wine paired with 3 oz. of soup from each of the participating wineries. Also, each ticket comes with $10 in “Cork Cash,” redeemable at participating wineries. Reservations are highly recommended. Purchase your ticket based upon your Starting Location. If you are local, you can purchase a SUNDAY ONLY ticket for $30, which includes $5 cork cash.eventbrite.com/e/sips-soups-tickets-1684303871219?aff=oddtdtcreator - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - “THE HOBBIT”: 2pm & 7pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. A shy hobbit, Bilbo Baggins is unexpectedly thrust into an epic adventure with a group of dwarves. See what happens to them in their quest to reclaim a stolen treasure from the fearsome dragon Smaug. $15$22. oldtownplayhouse.com/youth-learning/ performances/the-hobbit.html - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - DARK & STORMCLOUDY FILM SERIES: 4pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort. This series pairs award-winning films with small batch dark beers, handcrafted specifically for each movie selection by Stormcloud Brewing.

Featuring “My Old Ass” & M.O.A. Bierre De Garde. Tickets are $10; includes a $5 coupon for Stormcloud Brewing. gardentheater.org/ comingsoon - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - LUCHA LECHE LATTE ART COMPETITION: 5-8pm, Mundos 305, downtown TC. Art? Coffee? Both! Whether you’re a professional barista or just an at-home coffee lover… try your hand at the Lucha Leche Latte Art Competition! Your $10 entry fee benefits Single MOMM, a ministry that addresses & provides help for the core issues of single

news/lucha-leche-latte-art-competition - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - CANDLELIGHT: TRIBUTE TO QUEEN AND MORE: BOTH SHOWS SOLD OUT!: 6:30pm & 8:45pm, The Village at GT Commons, Kirkbride Hall, TC. Enjoy a live, multisensory musical experience. Discover the music of Queen & more under the gentle glow of candlelight. Performers include the String Quartet - Listeso. feverup.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - BACKSTAGE PASS: 7:30pm, TC Philharmonic Center, TC. An hour of music with the FULL TC Philharmonic orchestra, behindthe-scenes stories, & straight talk from Maestro Kevin Rhodes. $10. tcphil.org/concerts - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - THE LITTLE PRINCE AND THE MAN FROM MARS: 7:30pm, The MATCH, 1728 S. Garfield Ave. at the Cherryland Center, TC. The newest remix from Mashup follows a group of Castaways who are riding out the end of the world in an abandoned strip mall. To pass the time they tell stories about the Little Prince and the Man From Mars, two spectacular alien beings who crashed to Earth & experienced the best & worst of humanity. $28 GA, $38 VIP, $22 students & seniors. mashuprockandrollmusical.com/upcoming-shows-tickets - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - THE FRIARS WINTERPALOOZA: 8pm, City Opera House, TC. Enjoy The Friars, the a capella subset of the University of Michigan Men’s Glee Club. For more than 60 years, The Friars have been entertaining audiences with questionable choreography, bad dad jokes & boy-band hits. $10-$20. cityoperahouse.org/node/533 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - NORTHERN MICHIGAN E3: DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. FREEDOM WALK & CELEBRATION: The march begins at Rotary Square, downtown TC at 1:30pm & continues to The Alluvion. The celebration runs from 2-3pm. Enjoy a fireside conversation with speaker Isiah Smith. Proceeds benefit E3 programs such as the “I Have A Dream Scholarship Fund.” Socialization afterwards from 3-3:30pm at Bushell’s Kitchen & Cocktails Restaurant. thealluvion.org/tickets/dr-martinluther-king-jr-freedom-walk-and-celebration

jan 18

Sunday HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHI-

GAN!: Noon, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Celebrate Michigan’s 189th birthday. Join for a slice of cake & make a birthday card. TADL will gather all the cards made & send them to Governor Whitmer to show how much love we have here for our beautiful state. Free. tadl.org/HappyBirthdayMI - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - SIPS & SOUPS!: (See Sat., Jan. 17) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - DWELLING: A CONVERSATION ABOUT LIVING WELL: 1pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center.

How can we live better, & dwell more thoroughly in our homes? Two northern Michigan interior designers explore that question.

This conversation takes place as part of the GAAC’s INteriors exhibition. It is facilitated

by GAAC Gallery Manager Sarah BearupNeal. Free. glenarborart.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - “THE HOBBIT”: (See Sat., Jan. 17, except today’s only 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.

16 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

january

17-25

send your dates to: events@traverseticker.com

Have a blast honoring the people, stories and traditions that have shaped The Highlands at Harbor Springs over generations at their Anniversary Weekend, Jan. 23-25! Stop by the Winter Market featuring local makers and small businesses, don your classic ski gear and participate in the Vintage Ski Race, sample goodies from Short’s Brewing Co., take in the fireworks, and more! highlandsharborsprings.com/events/anniversary-weekend

This month is: Postcards-Little Pieces of History, Artistry, and Humanity. Free. tadl.org/ event/traverse-area-historical-society-27844 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - AMERICAN FIREWORKS!: 3-5pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Rhapsody in Blue headlines this celebration of 250 years of independence alongside masterpieces by America’s greatest composers. Includes Bernstein’s West Side Story Dances, Copland’s Buckaroo Holiday, & the Michigan Premiere of Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue. $27-$65. tcphil.org/concerts

jan 19

monday DR. MARTIN LUTHER

KING JR. DAY 2026: VOICES CARRY FORWARD: Free events all day at The Alluvion and the Commongrounds Building, TC. Art & music all day from Jimmy Olson, Joe Wilson, & Kevin LaRose in both locations. 10-11am: “Mindful & Musical with Miriam Pico” in The Alluvion on floor two. 11am-2pm: Community Artmaking with Laura Adams. Hands-on art projects in The Hive, 2nd floor lobby of Commongrounds.

Noon-2pm: A shared meal offered to nurture connection, conversation & community. Food located on the first floor of Commongrounds.

2-4pm: Youth Poetry Slam: “Where We Were, Where We Are, Where We’re Going.” In The Alluvion on floor two. Presented by nationally acclaimed Detroit spoken word poets-inresidence, Joel Fluent Greene & Peace Bell & their student cohort from Northport Public School. 6-8pm: Free ticketed show at The Alluvion with Poet Laureate, Jessica Care Moore. thealluvion.org/tickets/voices-carryforward-2026-mlk-day-events

MLK DAY OF SERVICE PROJECT: 10:30am-noon, Suttons Bay Bingham District Library. Celebrate MLK Day of Service with Suttons Bay Bingham District Library, Cardz for Kidz, & A Million Thanks. Join volunteers of all ages in making cards & writing letters.

All supplies & cards will be provided. Letters will be distributed by A Million Thanks, a nonprofit that distributes millions of handwritten messages to veterans & service members that strengthen morale. sbbdl.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - MLK DAY OF SERVICE FREE COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCH: 11am-1pm, Otsego County United Way Building, Gaylord. gaylordchamber.com/events/details/mlk-day-ofservice-free-community-soup-lunch-13291 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - KEEPING THE DREAM ALIVE: 3-6:45pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Families: Stop in after school to make a peace dove in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Receive one free book per family. peninsulacommunitylibrary.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY PERFORMANCE: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Join Interlochen Arts Academy students & faculty for a multidisciplinary performance celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Free; no tickets required. interlochen.org/events/dr-martin-lutherking-jr-day-performance-2026-01-19

jan 20

tuesday GENERAL MEETING OF

THE OTSEGO COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY: 5:307pm, Otsego County Library.

--------------------NEW MOON PARTY: 6-8pm, Blessed Be

Tea and Apothecary, TC. Join the Conscious Community Coven for a New Moon Party designed for connection, reflection, & community. Free. blessedbetea.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - MONTHLY MOVIE CLUB: “FARGO”: 7:30pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort.

Bring your best Minnesotan accent & have a swell time, you betcha! Free. gardentheater. org/comingsoon

jan 21

wednesday DROP-IN TECH HELP:

12:30-4:30pm, Alden District Library. If you need help setting up your new phone or tablet, troubleshooting problems with your current devices, or navigating the internet, drop by the library for 30 minutes of free help from staff member Jeff Morton. 231-331-4318.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - WOMEN IN TECH MEETUP: 5pm, Earthen Ales, TC. Meets each month to build community & support amongst women working in, or interested in, the tech industry & tech-related roles. Free. eventbrite.com/e/ women-in-tech-meetup-traverse-city-tickets851116912597?aff=ebdssbdestsearch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - BELLAIRE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: 5:30-7pm, Fireside Lounge, Bellaire. Networking, food, drinks & door prizes. $3 Chamber Members; $5 non-members; free for Spotlight Members.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - HERE:SAY PRESENTS: UNDER PRESSURE: 7pm, The Alluvion, TC. An evening of true, first-person stories about times in the storytellers’ lives that they were under stress & feeling the heat. $15 at door. heresaystorytelling.com/storytelling-events?view=calen dar&month=01-2026

jan 22

thursday COFFEE @ TEN, PETOS-

KEY: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Petoskey. Sailing on Ice: The Art of Photographing Iceboat Races and an Invitation! Gretchen Dorian will talk about the dynamic sport of iceboat racing, & share her work photographing iceboats & races all over the world. Free. crookedtree.app.neoncrm.com/ np/clients/crookedtree/event.jsp?event=23436 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - FAMILY PLAYGROUP: 10:30am, Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. Families with children ages 0-5 are invited to join in this nature-based playgroup on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, & connection with other families, all in the beauty of the outdoors. Free. grassriver.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - MI MOVIE MANIA - SOMEWHERE IN TIME: 6:30pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Join for a series of movies set &/or filmed in the Great Lakes State! Featuring “Somewhere in Time” (PG) - an iconic film & love story set on Mackinac Island. Snacks provided. Free. peninsulacommunitylibrary.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - “THE HOBBIT”: (See Sat., Jan. 17, except tonight’s only performance is at 7pm.)

jan 23

friday LUNCHEON

LECTURE: MONARCH BUTTERFLIES: 11:30am, NCMC, Library Conference Center, Petoskey. Hear from Laurie

& Jeff Dykehouse, who have tagged more than 2,000 migrating monarch butterflies at the Straits of Mackinac for the past six years using numbered tags provided by the Monarch Watch organization. Register. $15. ncmclifelonglearning.com/event-6464522 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - THE HIGHLANDS ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND: Jan. 23-25, The Highlands at Harbor Springs. Give a nod to the earlier days that have shaped The Highlands at Harbor Springs over generations. Tonight includes the Welcome Reception in the Main Lodge Lobby from 5-8pm. For more info visit: highlandsharborsprings.com/events/anniversary-weekend - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - HBA OF NW MI MANISTEE HOME EXPO 2026: Noon-8pm, Little River Casino Resort, Manistee. The Refresh.Rebuild.Reunite Expo brings homeowners, builders & suppliers together under one roof. Explore exhibits, get expert advice, & find solutions for every project, from updates & repairs to dream builds. eventhub.net/events/HBA-of-NW-MIManistee-Home-Expo-2026_6990 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - FAMILY FUN WITH PUPPETS!: 3:305:30pm, Suttons Bay Bingham District Library. No pre-registration needed. Hands-on active fun with crafts & activities. Make your own puppet. Free. sbbdl.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - 2026 WINTER OPENING RECEPTION: 6-8pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. An opening reception for the Dennos Museum Center’s Winter 2026 Exhibitions will be held.

Each guest will receive one drink ticket upon arrival. RSVP. Free for members; price of admission for guests. simpletix.com/e/2026winter-opening-reception-tickets-247334?utm_ source=cision&utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=dmc-winter-2026 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - TALES OF CLUB MANITOU/CLUB PONYTAIL & THE PURPLE GANG BY TAYLOR DUEWEKE: 6-8pm, Pond Hill Farm, Harbor Springs. Local historian & documentarian Taylor Dueweke brings to life the many forgotten & buried stories about this historic Harbor Springs club. It began as an infamous nightclub/casino run by The Purple Gang during Prohibition. Free. pondhill.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - LATERN-LIT EVENING: 6:30pm, Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. Enjoy a self-guided lantern-lit hike, or an evening ski or snowshoe on GRNA’s trails & boardwalks if there is snow. There will be a campfire at the Center pavilion & the heated building will be open & staffed. Bring a flashlight or headlamp. $5/ person. grassriver.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - “THE HOBBIT”: (See Thurs., Jan. 22) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - KEVIN RHODES PLAYS IT FORWARD: 7-8:30pm, TC Philharmonic Center, TC. A new recital series created to support the TC Phil & its programs. Enjoy music you love from Maestro Rhodes at the piano while knowing that 100% of ticket proceeds support TC Phil’s operating expenses. $100. tcphil.org/concerts

jan 24

saturday BIGFOOT SNOWSHOE

RACE: 9am, Timber Ridge Resort, TC. Featuring 1 Mile, 5K & 10K races. There will be plenty of logs to jump & branches to duck. Gather pre-race in the Timber Ridge Nordic Center. Stay after the race to warm up around a fire with a bowl of chili. Register. $20-$39. runsnow.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - THE HIGHLANDS ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND: Jan. 23-25, The Highlands at Harbor

LAUREL PREMO VOCAL OPENING A SERIES OF WORKSHOPS AT

FORTIFYING CONFIDENCE FOR BODIES AND VOICES THAT HAVE SO OFTEN BEEN QUIETED BY SOCIETY. ree therapeutic singing workshops for women and non-binary folks aimed at unearthing and strengthening one’s authentic voice, fortifying conndence in communication, and supporting slow growth towards more powerful local singing traditions that can build community and nourish those in circle. e workshop series will be focused and inclusive work, starting with very core human sound production and breathwork, and is welcoming to all experience levels. Free will donations accepted.

Held on three consecutive Sundays from 2 to 3 pm: Feb 1 • Feb 8 • Feb 15 • at the Alluvion is container is a trans and queer safe space. Visit the website for more information and to register: WWW.THEALLUVION.ORG/TICKETS/VOCAL-OPENING-WORKSHOPS-WITH-LAUREL-PREMO-1

$10

Celebrate the deep musical legacy of Detroit with this special lm screening Saturday, February 7 Doors at 6:30 • Film at 7 Post-screening Q-and-A with the lm's writer and co-producer Mark Stryker

Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 17

IMAGINE THE

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18 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

Springs. Give a nod to the earlier days that have shaped The Highlands at Harbor Springs over generations. Today includes a Winter Market in the Main Lodge Backyard from 11am-6pm. food, drinks & tastings from Short’s Brewing Co.; A Vintage Ski Race on the hill from 1-3pm; & fireworks on the hill at 9:15pm to wrap up the night. For more info visit: highlandsharborsprings.com/events/ anniversary-weekend - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - HBA OF NW MI MANISTEE HOME EXPO 2026: (See Fri., Jan. 23, except today’s time is 9am-6pm.)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - ONE-DAY MEDIA SALE: 10am-4pm, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Presented by the Friends of the Traverse Area District Library. Featuring a $5 fill-a-bag sale of media items, including DVDs, CDs, audiobooks & more. tadl.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - WORK OF ART: 10:30am-12:30pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Teens & adults are invited to think summer with a paint by number canvas. All materials provided.

RSVP to attend. Free. peninsulacommunitylibrary.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - WINTERFEST: 11am-2pm, GT County Civic Center, TC. An afternoon of outdoor fun & games provided by GT County Parks & Recreation, GT Conservation District, GT County Health Dept., GT County Sheriff, Norte Youth Cycling, Traverse Area District Library, Aloft Disc Golf, & North Sky Raptor Sanctuary. Includes the snowball slingshot (weather permitting) & the bookmobile. Free. gtcountymi. gov/2744/Parks-Recreation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - “THE HOBBIT”: (See Sat., Jan. 17) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - TEA TIME & ARTIST TALK: 3:30pm, Art on Union Gallery, TC. Adam VanHouten will present “Capturing the Fleeting Moment; Joys & Challenges of Plein Air Painting.”

Free. artonunion.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - IPR PRESENTS A SPECIAL SCREENING OF “DID YOU GUYS EAT?” ¿YA COMIERON?: 4pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort.

Learn about Mid-Michigan’s diverse agricultural landscape. Screening followed by Q&A with Director Stephany Slaughter. Free. gardentheater.org/comingsoon - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - TORCHLIGHT SNOWSHOE WITH BEARCUB OUTFITTERS: 5-8pm, Camp Daggett, Petoskey. Explore Camp Daggett’s scenic trails by torchlight.

Bearcub will be on site to provide snowshoes & help with sizing, or you’re welcome to bring your own. After your walk, warm up in the lodge with hot cocoa, cookies, & a chance to win raffle prizes. Free. campdaggett.org/events/torchlight-snowshoe-with-bearcub-outfitters - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - TRILLIUM GROOVE: 7pm, The Music House Museum, Williamsburg. This allgirl trio from northern Michigan met while studying audio engineering through NMC’s audio technology program. They include Ruby Bardenhagen (piano), Keagan Kalbfleisch (percussion), & SkyeLea Martin (guitar, ukulele). $25-$30. mynorthtickets. com/events/the-music-house-museum-ishappy-to-welcome-back-trillium-groovein-concert-on-january-24-2026-at700pm-1-24-2026 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - THE ALLUVION WORLD MUSIC SERIES PRESENTS: HAMILTON DE HOLANDA TRIO: 7:30pm, The Alluvion, TC. This trio from Brazil plays a hip blend of Brazillian funk-jazz-fusion music with a unique groove. $30 advance; $35 door. thealluvion.org

jan 25

sunday THE HIGHLANDS ANNI-

VERSARY WEEKEND: Jan. 23-25, The Highlands at Harbor Springs. Give a nod to the earlier days that have shaped The Highlands at Harbor Springs over generations. For more info visit: highlandsharborsprings.com/events/anniversary-weekend - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - PRESENTER’S SERIES: TONY MANFREDONIA: 2:30-4:30pm, Mt. Carmel Centre, Gaylord. Presented by the Gaylord Area Council for the Arts. Singer, songwriter & composer Tony Manfredonia has composed music for major pop culture phenomenons such as Minecraft & The Outer Worlds 2, & his work has been performed by renowned orchestras. $10 member; $15 non-member; $30 family (up to 4). gaylordarts.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/gaylordarts/event.jsp?event=2878&

ongoing WOW ON WEDNESDAYS: Petoskey Dis-

trict 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/wow-wednesday-8636 NAMI-GT SUPPORT GROUPS – MON.: Free, peer-led mental health support groups: NAMI Family Support (Mondays at 6pm; online & in-person - see web site for Zoom link), HBA, 3040 Sunset Ln., TC, & NAMI Connection Group (Mondays at 6pm, online - see web site for Zoom link). namigt.org/calendar/ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - NAMI-GT SUPPORT GROUPS – WEDS. AT NOON: Free, peer-led mental health support groups: NAMI Family Support and NAMI Connection Group. Both held Wednesdays at noon at Christ Church, 430 Fair St., TC. namigt.org/ support-and-education/support-groups/ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - NAMI-GT SUPPORT GROUPS – WEDS. AT 5PM: Free, peer-led mental health support: NAMI Connection Group. Held Wednesdays, 5pm online (see web site for Zoom Link) & in person at Child & Family Services, 3785 Veterans Dr., TC. namigt.org/calendar/ 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

art SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION: Charlevoix

Circle of Arts. This annual regional high school exhibition celebrates the creativity, skill, & fresh perspectives of emerging young artists. It will be on display from Jan. 23 through Feb. 21, featuring work by 11th & 12th grade students from area high schools. The exhibit opens with a public reception on Jan. 23 from 5-7pm. See web site for hours. charlevoixcircle.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - -CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, PETOSKEY: - ON ICE: Held in Gilbert Gallery through Feb. 28. Includes plein air icescape paintings by Margie Guyot, winter landscape paintings by Kevin Barton, photographs by Susan Tusa, documentary works exploring the communities & culture of ice fishing by Amy Sacka, photographs exploring ice as an aesthetic & environmental subject, drone shots by Ray Gaynor, & much more. See web site for hours. crookedtree.org/eventsand-exhibitions/exhibits/on-ice.html

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- AT HOME: Held in Bonfield Gallery through Feb. 28. Featuring quilts by Erick Wolfmeyer, Heidi Parkes, & the Little Traverse Bay Quilters Guild, ceramics by Madeline Kaczmarczyk, pastels by Heidi Marshall, & works by other artists. See web site for hours. crookedtree.org/events-and-exhibitions/exhibits/at-home.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 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, TC: - 2026 ARTIST GUILD MEMBER SALON SHOW: Held in Carnegie Galleries through Feb. 21. This exhibition showcases the work of 118 Guild Members, representing Greater Northern Michigan & beyond. An opening reception will be held on Jan. 17 from 3-5pm. See web site for hours. crookedtree.org/eventsand-exhibitions/exhibits/guild-member.html - BETWEEN US - WINTER 2026 EXHIBITION: Held in Cornwell Gallery. This exhibit explores connection, distance, & everything that exists in the in-between. It invites artists to reflect on how we reach for one another & ourselves across emotional, physical, & imagined spaces. Runs through Feb. 21. Visit website for hours. crookedtree.org/events-and-exhibitions/ exhibits/between-us.html - GUILD POP-UP EXHIBIT: LINDA GARDINER: Held in Libragallery. Runs through Jan. Linda is drawn to the stories found in fabric— the threads, textures, & marks inspired by nature, layered with paint, stencils, & time. Her work brings these elements together to create pieces that are both expressive & functional, blending beauty with everyday use. See web site for hours. crookedtree.org/events-andexhibitions/exhibits/guild-popup-exhibit-lindagardiner.html - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC: - NEW PERSPECTIVES: RECENT AQUISITIONS FROM THE DENNOS PERMANENT ART COLLECTION: Held in McFarlane Gallery, Jan. 23 - 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 Jan. 23 - May 31. 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 - TWELVE-BY-TWELVE: Runs Jan. 23 April 1. Created by students & faculty at Interlochen Arts Academy, every participant had to create something that would fit within an imaginary twelve-inch cube. They self-imposed this limit to discover what ideas those boundaries might produce. See web site for hours. dennosmuseum.org - DOUG CANNELL: “SELECTIONS FROM BACKSTORIES”: An introduction to Doug Cannell’s works that merge sculpture, installation, & storytelling into layered experiences. Cannell creates objects that resist easy definition. Runs through April 3. 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: - INTERIORS EXHIBITION: An exploration of inner spaces, both real & imagined, spaces of the home & of the mind. Runs through March 12. See web site for hours. glenarborart.org - SMALL ACCOMPLISHMENTS BY HARVEY GORDON: Enjoy this exhibition of acrylic paintings held in the Lobby Gallery through April 23. See web site for hours. glenarborart.org - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - OLIVER ART CENTER, FRANKFORT: - SPECTRUM EXHIBIT: Interactive exhibition showcasing artwork that makes it immediately evident that color is the major characteristic of the piece. Wide variety of work by regional artists. Runs through Feb. 6. See web site for hours. oliverart.org - ANDREW JAGNIECKI: WILD IMPRESSIONS: Featuring woodcut, intaglio & linocut prints. Runs through Feb. 13. See web site for hours. oliverart.org

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Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 19

lOGY

JAN 19 - JAN 25

BY ROB BREZSNY

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You are a spy from the future.

Thank you for your service! I love to see your boldness as you smuggle innovative ideas into a present that may or may not be ready for them.

Your feelings of alienation are sometimes uncomfortable, but they are crucial to the treasure you offer us. You see patterns others miss because you refuse to be hypnotized by consensus reality. Keep up the excellent work, please.

May you honor your need to tinker with impossibilities and imagine alternatives to what everyone else imagines is inevitable. You are proof that we don’t have to accept inherited structures as inevitable.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Admiring writers

often say that the Balinese people have no traditional word for “art.” Making things beautiful is woven into everyday life, as if everything should be done as beautifully as possible. I aspire to carry out this approach myself: infusing ordinary actions with the same care I'd bring to writing a story or song. Washing dishes, answering emails, and walking to the store: All are eligible for beauty treatment.

I highly recommend this practice to you in the coming weeks, Leo. It’s true that you’re renowned for your dramatic gestures, but I believe you also have an underutilized talent for teasing out glory from mundane situations. Please do that a lot in the coming weeks. For starters, make your grocery list a poem.

VIRGO

“Jonesin” Crosswords "Family Matters"-the family as a unit. by Matt Jones

ACROSS 1. "Jeopardy!" creator Griffin 5. A-list notable 10. Cellar, in apt. ads 14. Summer camp setting 15. Grande's costar in 2024 and 2025 films 16. "Fine by me" 17. Dow Jones Industrial Average, e.g.

19. 2007 NBA MVP Nowitzki 20. ___ contendere (no contest plea) 21. Half of the green Trivial Pursuit category 23. Hot green paste 26. Forever ___ day 27. Dramatic division 28. Puts under a spell 32. Ballpark figure?

35. Rage ___ (2025's Oxford Word of the Year) 37. Suffix dropped from 22-Down's full name 38. Add up to 40. Ghana's capital 42. "Family" found in the four long theme answers 43. "America" singer in "West Side Story" 44. "Oliver Twist" burglar Bill 45. Short opening letter?

47. Distant lead-in 48. "Bali ___" ("South Pacific" tune) 49. Turntable part 52. Coffee dispenser 53. First-time gamer 55. They run the show 57. Dryer by the sink 60. "The Grapes of Wrath" itinerant 61. Follow 62. Japanese cat figurine with one paw raised 67. "That's pretty cool" 68. Solo 69. Dually packaged candy bar 70. Ultrafast fliers, once 71. Really enjoy 72. Provocative

DOWN 1. Portland Timbers' org.

2. Get takeout, perhaps 3. "Citizen Kane" film studio 4. D&D villain, or a "Stranger Things" antagonist 5. Top 6. Puzzle cube creator Rubik 7. Top 8. Nights before 9. Freight train unit 10. Foreshadowed 11. Boat brand designed for a certain water activity 12. "Double Dare" host Summers 13. Little kid 18. Japanese beef city 22. Pic-based social media site, for short 23. Illinois-Indiana border river 24. Small tree that's a source of gum arabic 25. Long, thin bug that camouflages well with leaves 29. "Little Miss Sunshine" Oscar winner Alan 30. L.L. Bean's home state 31. "___ vincit amor": Virgil 33. Past adolescence 34. Jimmy Carter's Georgia hometown 36. Three, in Italian 39. Lowest roll on a D20 41. John Jacob on the Titanic 46. Fan of Capt. Kirk and crew, as some (including Leonard Nimoy) prefer 50. Late-2000s first family 51. Year of Super Bowl XXXVI 54. "For sure!"

56. The part after the decimal point, sometimes 57. Puts on 58. Nile wading bird 59. Fundraising event 60. Prefix meaning "wine" 63. 11th mo.

64. Flock mother 65. Cereal with a puffed ball shape 66. Acne-treating brand

20 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Some American Indigenous cultures have "potlatch" ceremonies. These are elaborate gift-giving rituals where hosts gain prestige by generously and freely bestowing their riches on others.

Circulating wealth, instead of hoarding it, is honored and celebrated. Is that economically irrational? Only if you believe that the point of resources is individual accumulation rather than community vitality. Potlatch operates on a different logic: The purpose of having stuff is to make having stuff

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): ): Sufi poet Rumi

wrote about a "treasure in ruins.” He meant that what we’re searching for may be hidden in places where we would rather not look. Your life isn’t in ruins, Libra, but I suspect you may have been exploring exciting locations while shunning mundane ones that actually hold your answers. What do you think? Is that possible? Just for fun, investigate the neglected, ignored, and boring places. Try out the hypothesis that a golden discovery awaits you in some unfinished business or a situation you feel an aversion to.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Your capacity for intensity is your superpower. I love it, I celebrate it, and I hope to keep nurturing it in you for as long as we’re both here. But not everything deserves the full force of your passionate engagement. Some things are meant to be touched lightly, held loosely, and released easily. The question isn't whether to feel deeply—that's who you authentically are—but whether to act on every deep feeling as if it were sacred revelation. Some emotions are weather patterns passing through, not permanent truths requiring upheaval.

These are especially key understandings for you to act on during the coming days.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): As I

have promised you a million times, I will NEVER exaggerate. And though you may wonder if the statements I’m about to make are excessive and overblown, I assure you they are not. The fact is, dear Sagittarius, that everything you have always wanted to enhance and upgrade about togetherness is now possible to accomplish, and will continue to be for months to come. If you dare to dismantle your outmoded beliefs about love and deep friendship—every comforting myth, every conditioned response, every inherited instinct—you will discover new dimensions of intimacy that could inspire you forever.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In

Renaissance painting, chiaroscuro refers to the use of strong contrasts between light and dark. It’s a technique that enhances the sense of depth. I believe your life may be in an intense chiaroscuro phase. As your joys grow bright, your doubts appear darker. As your understanding deepens, your

perplexity mounts. Is this a problem? I prefer to understand it as an opportunity. For best results, study it closely. Maybe your anxiety is showing you what you care about. Perhaps your sadness is a sign of your growing emotional power. So find a way to benefit from the contrasts, dear Capricorn. Let shadows teach you how to fully appreciate the illumination.

PISCES

(Feb 19-March 20): Your unconscious mind is extra communicative, dear Pisces. Hooray! Take advantage! Pay attention to weird images in dreams and songs that linger in your head. Be alert for seemingly random thoughts as they surface.

Bypassing logic, your deep psyche is trying to show you ripe secrets and provocative hints. Your duty is to be receptive. So keep a journal or recording device by your bed. Notice which memories rise up out of nowhere. Be grateful for striking coincidences. These are invitations to tune in to meaningful feelings and truths you’ve been missing.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Master astrologer

Steven Forrest understands you Aries people well. He says that the riskiest strategy you can pursue is to constantly seek safety. It’s crucial for you to always be on the lookout for adventure. One of your chief assignments is to cultivate courage—especially the kind of brave boldness that arises as you explore unknown territory. To rouse the magic that really matters, you must face your fears regularly. The coming months will be an ideal time for you to dive in and celebrate this approach to life.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You are an

ambassador from the material world to the realm of spirit—and vice versa. One of your prime assignments is the opposite of what the transcendence-obsessed gurus preach.

You're here to prove that the flesh is holy, pleasure is a form of prayer, and the senses are portals to the divine.

When you revel in earthy delights, when you luxuriate in rich textures and tastes and scents, you're not being "attached" or “unspiritual.” You're enacting a radical sacred stance. Being exuberantly immersed in the material world isn’t a mistake to overcome but a blessing to savor. May you redouble your subversive work of treating your body as a cathedral and sensual enjoyments as sacraments.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Everything that’s

meant for you is trying to find its way to you.

Here's the problem: It can’t deliver the goods if you’re in constant motion. The boons trying to reach you are circling, waiting for a stable landing spot. If you keep up the restless roaming, life might have to slow you down, even stop you, so you’ll be still enough to embody receptivity. Don’t wait for that. Pause now. Set aside whatever’s feeding your restlessness and tune into the quiet signal of your own center. The moment you do, bounties will start arriving.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Artist Louise

Bourgeois said, "I am what I do with my hands." I will adapt this declaration for your use, Cancerian: You are what you do with your feelings. You are the structures, sanctuaries, and nourishment you create from the raw material of your sensitivity. It’s one of your superpowers! I understand that some people mistake emotional depth for passive vulnerability. They assume that feeling everything means doing nothing. But you prove that bias wrong. You are potentially a master builder. You can convert the flood waters of emotion into resources that hold, protect, and feed. I hope you will do this lavishly in the coming weeks.

Grand Traverse & Kalkaska GRAND TRAVERSE & KALKASKA ENCORE 201, TC 1/16-17 & 1/23-24 -- DJ Ricky T, 9 IDENTITY BREWING CO., TC 1/19 -- Vinyl Night w/ DJ E-Knuf, 5-8 1/20 -- TC Celtic, 6-8 1/22 -- Beyond Trivia!, 7-8:30 KILKENNY'S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE, TC 9:30: 1/17 -- Protea 1/23 -- Peril 1/24 -- Twilight Tunes Dueling Pianos KINGSLEY LOCAL BREWING 1/17 – 90s Night – Music & Trivia w/ Andy McQuillen, 6-8 1/20 – Open Mic Night, 6-9 1/22 – Trivia Night w/ Marcus Anderson, 6:30-8:30 LEFT FOOT CHARLEY, TC BARREL ROOM: 1/17 -- Jeff McNiven & KayLee Byrtus - Live Album Recording with KayLee, 5-8 1/19 -- Open Mic w/ Rob Coonrod, 6-9

MARI VINEYARDS, TC 4-6: 1/17 -- John Piatek 1/23 -- Christina Teresa 1/24 -- Rhett & John

THE HAYLOFT INN, TC 7:30-11: 1/16-17 -- Vertigo 1/23 -- Split Decision 1/24 -- Empire Highway

NOCTURNAL BLOOM, TC Thu -- Thurs. Night Trivia, 6

THE LITTLE FLEET, TC 7-10: 1/17 -- Sosohifi wsg Andrew Dost 1/24 -- Sosohifi wsg Pete Farmer

NORTH BAR, TC 1/22 -- Drew Hale, 7-9 1/23 -- Christina Teresa, 7-10 OLD MISSION DISTILLING, TC SEVEN HILLS: 1/17 -- Mitchell McKolay, 6 1/23 -- The Fridays, 7 1/24 -- Reminisce: Jim & Dave, 7 RARE BIRD BREWPUB, TC 1/20 -- Tues. Trivia Night, 7-9 TC WHISKEY CO. 1/17 -- Joe Terzano, 6-8 THE ALLUVION, TC 1/22 -- The Jeff Haas Trio feat. Laurie Sears + Lisa Flahive, 6-8:30 1/24 -- The Alluvion World Music Series Presents: Hamilton De Holanda Trio, 7-9:30 1/25 -- The Alluvion Big Band, 2:305

THE PARLOR, TC 1/17 -- Loren Kranz, 9 1/18 & 1/25 -- Music Bingo w/ Samantha Dallas & Trevor VanAssche, 7-9 1/20 -- Jesse Jefferson, 8-11 1/21 -- Rob Coonrod, 8-11 1/22 -- John Richard Paul, 8-11 1/23 -- Reese Keelor, 9 THE PUB, TC 1/17 -- Drew Hale, 8-11 1/19 -- Karaoke Mon., 8 1/22 -- Music Bingo, 7:30-10:30 1/23 -- Clint Weaner, 8-11 1/24 -- Loren Kranz, 8-11 THE WORKSHOP BREWING CO., TC 1/17 -- Hot Flat Pop, 7-10 1/18 -- Victory Lap - Full Tilt Comedy Show, 6

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BOYNE RIVER INN, BOYNE CITY 1/22 -- Nelson Olstrom, 7 CAFE SANTÉ, BOYNE CITY 1/17 – Lavender Lions Duo, 7-10

ETHANOLOGY DISTILLATION, ELK RAPIDS 1/25 -- Vinyl Record Crate Dig Hosted by DJ Franck & DJ Yakob, 1-5 FIRESIDE LOUNGE, BELLAIRE 1/23 -- Nick Vasquez, 6:30-9:30

MUSKRAT DISTILLING, BOYNE CITY 1/21 -- Karaoke Night, 8-11 SHORT'S PUB, BELLAIRE 1/22 -- Trivia Hosted by DJ Trivia, 6-8 TOONIE'S, BELLAIRE 1/17 & 1/24 -- DJ/Karaoke, 8

1/23 -- Luke Woltanski 1/24 -- Nick Veine

THE GREENHOUSE - WILLOW/ PRIMOS, CADILLAC 1/17 -- The Ritual Suns, 7

Otsego, Crawford & Central ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY, GAYLORD 1/23 -- Zie, 6-9

BIG BUCK BREWERY, GAYLORD 1/23 -- Mike Ridley, 6-9

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS, PETOSKEY 2-6: 1/17 -- Chris Calleja 1/24 -- Michelle Chenard

1/19 -- Quiz Runners Trivia, 6-8 1/21 -- Singo Bingo: Best of Country, 6:30 1/23 -- Paul Bedour, 7-10 1/24 -- Brian Thomas, 7-10

POND HILL FARM, HARBOR SPRINGS 5-8: 1/17 -- RPM Band 1/24 -- Jeff & Rob Duo

BRANDY'S HARBORTOWN, BAY HARBOR 5-8: 1/17 – Sean Bielby 1/23 – Ricky Hill 1/24 – Chris Calleja

NORTHERN LIGHTS RECREATION, HARBOR SPRINGS 1/22 -- Trivia Night, 6:30-8:30 1/23 -- Nelson Olstrom, 6-9

THE BEAU, CHEBOYGAN 7: 1/17 -- Mark Bowen 1/23 -- Musician's Playground 1/24 -- M to the B

CITY PARK GRILL, PETOSKEY 1/20 -- Trivia Night, 7-9 1/23 -- Annex Karaoke, 9:30 INN BETWEEN, INDIAN RIVER 1/22 -- Mike Ridley, 4-7 NOGGIN ROOM PUB, PETOSKEY 1/17 -- Mike Ridley, 7-10

NUB'S NOB, HARBOR SPRINGS NUB'S PUB: 1/24 -- Mike Ridley, 3-6 ODAWA CASINO RESORT, PETOSKEY VICTORIES, 9: 1/17 -- DJ Hotkeys 1/23 -- DJ Big Ton 1/24 -- DJ T-Bone

THE HIGHLANDS AT HARBOR SPRINGS SLOPESIDE LOUNGE, 6-9: 1/17 -- Chris Koury 1/18 -- Michelle Chenard 1/24 -- Pete Kehoe ZOO BAR: 1/17 -- Yankee Station, 4-8 1/23 -- Seasonal Road, 6-9

BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU TASTING ROOM: 1/23 -- Bryan Poirier, 5:30-8 CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN, THOMPSONVILLE SLOPESIDE TENT, NEAR CRYSTAL CLIPPER CHAIRLIFT, 3-5: 1/17 -- Johnny P 1/18 -- Carl Pawluk 1/24 -- Fred Drachus VISTA LOUNGE: 1/17 -- Carl Pawluk, 2-5; Johnny P Band, 8-11 1/18 -- Mike Struwin, 2-5 1/19 -- The Bear, 2-5 1/23 -- Sydni K, 2-5; Life Theory, 8-11 1/24 -- Nick Vasquez, 2-5; Life Theory, 8-11 1/25 -- Chris Smith, 2-5

FIVE SHORES BREWING, BEULAH 6-8: 1/19 -- Mon. Music Trivia 1/21 -- Open Mic w/ Nathon Lane 1/22 -- Trivia Thurs.

IRON FISH DISTILLERY, THOMPSONVILLE 1/17 -- Angela Caro & John Pomeroy, 5:30-7:30 1/22 -- Thus. Night Trivia, 6-7:30 1/24 -- Rebekah Jon, 5:30-7:30 LAKE ANN BREWING CO. 1/17 -- Mike Moran, 6:30-9:30 1/21 -- Open Mic Night, 6:309:30 1/22 -- Trivia Night, 7-9 1/23 -- The Dune Brothers, 6:309:30 1/24 -- Luke Woltanski & John Piatek, 6:30-9:30

LITTLE TRAVERSE INN, MAPLE CITY 1/23 -- Billy & The Kid, 6-9 NORTHERN LATITUDES DISTILLERY, LAKE LEELANAU 1/23 -- Chris Smith, 4:45-6:45 ST. AMBROSE CELLARS, BEULAH 1/17 -- Bill Frary, 5-8 1/22 -- Open Mic Night, 6-9 1/23 -- Andy Six, 5-8 1/24 -- Jakob Abraham, 5-8 STORMCLOUD BREWING CO., FRANKFORT 1/24 -- Serita's Black Rose, 7-9

SNOWBELT BREWING CO., GAYLORD 1/22 – Trivia Night, 7

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Come as you are, pay what you can

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Northern Express Weekly • january 19, 2026 • 21

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24 • january 19, 2026 • Northern Express Weekly