27 minute read
Driving the Green Book
Author Alvin Hall shares his cross-country journey exploring the past, present, and future
“And I thought, where did all of those people come from?”
Hall also knew that—like his own family—many Black transplants to northern cities likely had loved ones in the South. “A lot of people had land and houses,” he says.
“So, I [also] wanted to look at all the places people who migrated to Detroit would [return home] to.”
Together with field producer Oluwakemi (Kemi) Aladesuyi, Hall handpicked a handful of cities that would become the “road map” to Driving the Green Book . All in all, the journey saw Hall and his team through 11 hubs of migration travel, from Detroit to New Orleans, all in the interest of creating a network of people to share their Green Book stories. “[These] are lived experiences,” Hall notes, not cutand-dry news clips or textbook excerpts.
“I hoped the voices of the people we interviewed would remain and resonate with people.”
The results, simply put, were humbling. Among his highest moments, Hall lists the wisdom of Frank Figgers (Mississippi), whose purposeful and practiced cadence mirrored that of his great uncles, as well as a joyous encounter with Senator Hank Sanders. The first African American legislator in Alabama since
Reconstruction, Sanders was inspired at a young age by Thurgood Marshall to become a lawyer and went on to graduate from Harvard Law School.
“Talking about the strengths his parents gave him and his siblings, and how he never lost the fight for Civil Rights, stays with me all the time,” Hall says.
Alternatively, the “trickiest” bits were the uninterrupted stretches of road, where imagining the difficulties Black people might have encountered on a similar drive during segregation felt especially sobering.
To put the concept in perspective, Hall points to a young Hezekiah Jackson—an Alabama pastor, now in his sixties—and the trauma his family experienced at the hands of white suburban police. (We won’t share spoilers from the book, but it’s a hairraising scene).
The Future
Those kinds of incidents, Hall reminds us, still exist for Black Americans. He recounts an overtly-racist experience that his producer, Aladesuyi, endured at a rest stop on their road trip. “She was in line to buy something, and the white person behind the counter looked at her and turned away,” he says. “I think those moments brought about silent reflection in all of us.”
As harrowing as some of the narratives he shares are, Hall hopes that Driving the Green Book leaves his readers with a sense of grace. To illustrate this, he and his producers offer a shared memory of a roadside chain called Stuckey’s. “All of us talked about the pecan rolls at Stuckey’s and how we always wanted to taste them, but our parents would say no.” It was only later on that each discovered segregation kept them from going in.
“Everybody laughed at that,” Hall says. “And in that laughter [was a sense] of humor and not being trapped by the past. That was the grace, and I think that’s the key to many of these stories.”
About the Event: This National Writers Series event takes place at 7pm on Thursday, February 23, at the City Opera House and virtually. In-person tickets range from $15.50-$25.50 (not including taxes and fees) and can be purchased through the City Opera House. Live-streamed tickets ($14), as well as sale-priced copies of Driving the Green Book ($24), are available through the NWS website. The guest host for the event will be award-winning broadcast journalist and WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn. To reserve tickets or for more information, visit nationalwritersseries.org.
231-334-2758
6675 W. Western Ave., Glen Arbor
LET’S TALK! GIVE SERBIN A CALL!
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Two nice lots, 4.88 acres in Glen Forest Neighborhood. Close to Empire, Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes Paved, private common road $79,000
MLS #1902217 www.Serbinrealestate.com saturday
47TH ANNUAL NORTH AMERICAN VASA: 8am, Timber Ridge Resort, TC. Today includes the 6K High School Freestyle Race (for ages 19 & under), Short’s Grand Fat 35K, Short’s-N-Fat 17K, Junior Vasa (various distances), & Adaptive Skier Race. vasa.org/race-info-new
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2023 GRASS RIVER SHIVER: 10am, Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. A 5K/10K snowshoe race fundraiser. This is a time raced, but the course will be up for the weekend if runners need or want to run it at a later time. Register online & get a shirt for $40, or preregister for the race only & no shirt for $25, or register day of at race for $30. grassriver.org
BASIC MARLINSPIKE: TURKS HEAD
KNOTS, A MAKE & TAKE WORKSHOP: 10am-1pm, Maritime Heritage Alliance, TC. Free; suggested $10 donation for materials. maritimeheritagealliance.org/events-andprograms
BELLAIRE’S COCOA CRAWL KIDS
CRAFT: Bellaire Public Library. Kids are welcome to stop by from 10am-noon to create personal buttons using their imaginations & BPL’s button maker. Free. bellairelibrary.org
BEULAH WINTERFEST: Downtown Beulah. Includes a Cookie Sale at Beulah Trailhead, No Fee Snowmobile Poker Run, Frozen Turkey Bowling, Chili Cookoff at Beulah Village Park, horse drawn wagon rides, Snowball Target Competition, Frozen Fish Toss, Winterfest Parade, Outhouse Sprint, Fireworks on Crystal Lake, & more. clcba. org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/CLCBA_ Winterfest_Rack-Card_2023-1.pdf
FREE FAMILY DROP-IN ART: 10am-noon, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Cornwell Gallery, TC. Stop by for a fun, free art activity for all ages. crookedtree.org/class/ctac-traversecity/free-drop-family-art-february
HARBOR SPRINGS ICE FEST: Downtown Harbor Springs, Feb. 10-11. This event kicks off with trivia night at Stafford’s Pier Restaurant, Fri. at 6pm. This year’s fest will feature over 30 ice sculptures throughout Downtown Harbor Springs, along with the Dueling Chainsaws. There will be an interactive ice park in Zorn Park, with large interactive sculptures, ice carving demonstrations, & ice games. Also enjoy horse-drawn hayrides & more. downtownharborsprings.com/ice-fest ----------------------
MORNING TEA AT THE MUSEUM: 10am, Harbor Springs History Museum. This event includes hot tea, decadent desserts, pastries & a short presentation with curator Beth Wemigwase on the origin of Valentine’s Day cards. Tickets are $15 per person & seats are limited. harborspringshistory.org/events/ ?action=evrplusegister&event_id=81
OPEN STUDIO: 10am-1pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Visual Arts Room, Petoskey. Drop-in free arts & crafts for the whole family. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/openstudio-february-11
SUPER SATURDAY: 10am-2pm, Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency, TC. Free tax filing, free lunch, & win prizes. facebook.com/nmcaa
LITTLE WAVES: 10:30am at Petoskey District Library, & 1pm at Charlevoix Public Library. “Musical Adventures”: Aimed at children 4-10 years of age & their families, this program features a multimedia story- book time with Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra (GLCO) percussionist & program director Tim Mocny, an opportunity to hear one or more GLCO musicians demonstrate & explain how their instruments work, & fun music-related activities for kids. Free. glcorchestra.org/education/little-waves
VALENTINE CELEBRATION WITH THE CHERRY QUEEN: 11am, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Enjoy a visit with the Traverse City National Cherry Festival Queen, Olivia Coolman, in celebration of Valentine’s Day. There will be Valentine-themed children’s stories, a meet ‘n greet with Queen Olivia, & crafts (including decorating your own heart-shaped cookie, while supplies last). Free. tadl.org/events
WALK + TALK THE EXHIBITIONS: 11am, Glen Arbor Arts Center. A guided walk-and-talk through Glen Arbor Arts Center’s “Telling Stories” & “A Feral Housewife” exhibitions. Sarah Bearup-Neal, GAAC gallery manager, leads a conversational tour of these exhibits about visual storytelling. Free. glenarborart.org
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WINTERLOCHEN: Interlochen Center for the Arts. Families can enjoy this annual winter festival, including a free, kid-friendly ballet matinee of “Cinderella.” There will be s’mores, sledding, acting workshops, art crafts & the popular Kids Conduct. The festivities end with a parade to Corson Auditorium for the performance. Activities run 11am1:30pm. Free. interlochen.org/winterlochen
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JUNIOR VASA SKI RACE: Noon, Timber Ridge Resort, TC. Nordic ski racers age 14 & under are invited to race the Junior VASA Ski Race. The race is free but you must register online. vasa.org
WINTERFEST: 12-3pm, Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. A family event with outdoor & indoor activities: snowshoeing & x-country skiing demos at no cost (weather permitting), crafts, games, & s’mores & hot chocolate. Free; donations welcome. grassriver.org
HOW TO CATCH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN: 1pm, Leland Township Library, Leland. Join Melissa Kaelin, author of “Below the 45th Parallel: Chasing the Aurora in the Great Lakes Region,” for a program on how to catch the illusive Northern Lights in Michigan. Free. lelandlibrary.org/programs-events
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SNOWSHOEING & S’MORES: 2-4pm, Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, Mackinaw City. Meet Park Naturalist Kyle Bagnall in the parking lot, where you’ll begin your hike. Along a two-mile track, search for signs of wildlife & more. After the walk, stop at the Forest Clearing to enjoy s’mores over a campfire. Donation. mackinacparks.com/ event/snowshoeing-smores-at-historic-millcreek-discovery-park-2/2023-02-11
FABULOUS HORNDOGS SWEETHEART
DANCE: SOLD OUT: 4-7pm, Old Art Building, Leland. Presented by Five Loaves & Two Fish. The Fabulous Horndogs will be playing the music & proceeds benefit efforts to feed the local homeless population. $20. mynorthtickets.com/events/fabulous-horndogs-sweetheart-dance-2-11-2023
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CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF ARTS EVENT AT BEARDS BREWERY: 6-8pm, Beards Brewery, Petoskey. Live artist demos with Charlevoix oil painter Jan Coltman & pastel artist Mike Coltman. Gift shop pop-up of local artist items, free “Take & Make” art kits, prize drawing giveaway & more. Free. charlevoixcircle.org/events
“THE GREEN BOOK: A GUIDE TO FREEDOM” DOCUMENTARY: 7-8:30pm, Rams-
February
Lyricist and composer Crys Matthews brings her thoughtful, realistic and emotional songs with her to northern Michigan. Finding inspiration in her surroundings, Matthews reminds us why music soothes the soul. Enjoy a blend of Americana, folk, jazz, blues, bluegrass and funk at the Ramsdell Theatre in Manistee on Thurs., Feb. 16 from 7-9pm during a free Journey of Discovery event to honor the contributions of African Americans in Rural Michigan; and on Fri., Feb. 17 at 7:30pm at the Crooked Tree Arts Center Theater, Petoskey, presented by Blissfest. $20 Blissfest members; $25 GA. showclix.com/ event/blissfest-presents-crys-matthews dell Theatre, Manistee. This Journey of Discovery event is being held to honor the contributions of African Americans in Rural Michigan. Free; donations welcome. ramsdelltheatre.org
BAYSIDE TRAVELLERS CONTRA
DANCE: Kason Township Hall, Maple City. Family friendly contra dance. Basic skills workshop at 7pm with contra dance from 7:30-10:30pm. Live music by Jigs & Reels & dances called by Pat Reeser. No partner or experience necessary. Masks required. Dance is donation only. dancetc.com
GOPHERWOOD CONCERTS PRESENTS
ABIGAIL STAUFFER: 7-9pm, Cadillac Elks Lodge. This folk singer uses acoustic, pop, & neo-soul music to showcase her confidence & vulnerability, creating a balance of pain, hope, & joy. $7-$15. mynorthtickets.com/ events/abigail-stauffer-2-11-2023
“CINDERELLA”: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Witness the classic fairy tale come to life in a ballet adaptation. Presented by Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division. $22 adults; $17 kids & students. interlochen.org/concerts-and-events/ signature-series?search=cinderella ----------------------
“THE LARAMIE PROJECT”: 7:30pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. In 1998 Matthew Shepard, an openly gay college student, was brutally beaten & left to die on the plains outside Laramie, Wyoming. This play is based on 200+ interviews with the people of the town, & explores the depths to which humanity can sink & the heights of compassion we are capable of. $28 adults; $15 youth under 18, plus fees. oldtownplayhouse.com/calendar
THE TSO PRESENTS ANDREW SORDS: 7:30pm, Historic Barns Park, The Cathedral Barn, TC. Andrew makes his TSO debut on violin with this solo concert accompanied by Maestro Kevin Rhodes on piano. Students & 1st time attendees, call the Box Office for 50% off your tickets: 231-947-7120, x5. $45.50. traversesymphony.org/concert/andrew-sords feb sunday
47TH ANNUAL NORTH AMERICAN VASA: 10am, Timber Ridge Resort, TC. Today includes the 27K Cambium Analytica Classic Ski Race, 6K High School Classic Ski Race (for ages 19 & under), Michigan Cup Challenge Awards and crowning of KING and QUEEN VASA!, Vasa FUN 6K Tour (classic or freestyle) & Vasasaurus Stomp Snowshoe Race 6K. vasa.org/race-info-new
“CINDERELLA”: SOLD OUT: 2pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Witness the classic fairy tale come to life in a ballet adaptation. Presented by Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division. $22 adults; $17 kids & students. interlochen.org/events/ cinderella-2023-02-12 feb monday
“THE LARAMIE PROJECT”: (See Sat., Feb. 11, except today’s time is 2pm.)
THE TSO PRESENTS ANDREW SORDS: (See Sat., Feb. 11, except today’s time is 3pm.)
2023 BENZIE CHAMBER SUMMIT: “THE STATE OF BENZIE”: 9am-1pm, The Mills Community House, Benzonia. Featuring Benzie County Administrator Katie Zeits, Benzie County EDC & BRA Art Jeannot, Benzonia Township Supervisor Jason Barnhard, & many others. $5 advance; $10 door. business.benzie.org/ events/details/benzie-chamber-summit-16452
PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES IN ART: 9:3010:15am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Visual Arts Classroom, TC. Drop in for hands-on fun for preschoolers & their grown-ups. Early registration encouraged. $5. crookedtree. org/class/ctac-traverse-city/preschool-adventures-art-february-13-0
KID’S CRAFT LAB: LOVE BUG GARLAND: 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. String up a little love for Valentine’s Day. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org
BE HEALTHY, BE ACTIVE COOKING WORKSHOP: 3:30-5pm, Interlochen Public Library. Chef Susanne will show a few techniques, & then you can cook the whole recipe from start to finish. Limited to 10 people. Registration required: 231-276-6767.
BICYCLE REPAIR CLINICS: 5pm, McLain Cycle & Fitness, 750 E. Eighth St., TC. Topics change every week. Free. mclaincycle.com
G.T. HUMANISTS MEETING: DEPOLARIZING POLITICAL DISCUSSIONS: 6pm, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Join the Grand Traverse Humanists for a presentation by Mike Radke, PhD from the organization Braver Angels, for a program called “Depolarizing Political Discussions: How to Get Liberals and Conservatives in the Same Room for a Civil Conversation.” Free. gthumanists.org tuesday
GET TO KNOW YOUR CHAMBER BREAKFAST:
8-9:30am, Stafford’s Perry Hotel, Reycraft Room, Petoskey. Designed for new, existing & potential members to learn about the chamber & its programming & how to utilize the chamber to help your business or organization. Reservation required. Free. petoskeychamber. com/events/details/get-to-know-your-chamber-breakfast-feb-14-2023-28764 ----------------------
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME: 10:30am, Suttons Bay Bingham District Library, lower level Community Meeting Room. Preschoolers of all ages are invited to join for stories, songs & active fun. Free. sbbdl.org
STORYTIME ADVENTURES: 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Featuring “Who Will Be My Valentine This Year?” by Jerry Pallotta. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org
PARKINSON’S NETWORK NORTH SUPPORT GROUP: 1pm, The Presbyterian Church of TC, 701 Westminster Rd. Mary Ellen Brown presents “Safe, Smart Travel with Parkinson’s,” What’s New?, & Care Partner time. Info: 947-7389. Free. pnntc.org
TECHNOLOGY TUESDAY: 4pm, Glen Lake Library, Empire. Seniors needing assistance with personal technology are invited to drop by for this session, coordinated by Share Care of Leelanau. Volunteers will be on hand to help with a variety of common tech tasks: accessing the Web, downloading smartphone apps, working with Microsoft Word, accessing electronic books, & much more. Bring your device. Free. glenlakelibrary.net
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“LOVE LETTERS BY A.R. GURNEY”: 6-8pm, Creative Pursuit, Gaylord. A funny & emotional portrait about the powerful connection of love across a 50 year time frame. Charcuterie hors d’oeuvres & wine will be served. Members: $30 single; $50 couple. Non-members: $35 single; $55 couple. gaylordarts.org wednesday
“DISRUPT & DISMANTLE: DISPLACEMENT IN THE MERMAID CITY”: 1pm & 2:30pm, Dennos Museum
Center, Dutmers Theater, NMC, TC. Soledad O’Brien investigates a city redevelopment plan in Norfolk, VA, that would tear down public housing & displace low-income residents in an effort to “revitalize” the area. Limit of 30 people per screening. Free; online registration required. simpletix.com/e/disrupt-dismantledisplacement-in-the-merm-tickets-119450
OPEN STUDIO CREATIVE HOUR & ANIMATION CLASS: 3:30pm, Arts for All of Northern Michigan, 1485 Barlow St., TC. Bring your sketchbook, painting supplies, or artworkin-progress for a chance to share, & enjoy a boost of inspiration from other creative individuals. OR make a short stop-motion animation video with Diane. Limited easels & other art tools will be available. For all ages & abilities. Free. artsforallnmi.org/event/open-studiocreative-hour-animation-with-diane-3
CHILLIN’ WITH THE CHAMBER: 4-6pm, Harbor Springs Area Chamber office, 118 E. Main St., Harbor Springs. Find out about the True North Golf Club & what’s happening in the area while having a beverage & some appetizers. Free.
SNOWSHOE UNDER THE STARS: 5-7:30pm, The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, TC. Join experts from the Grand Traverse Conservation District to learn the art & science of snowshoeing while enjoying a guided candlelight tour of the trees, shrubs, & foliage that is in the Garden during the winter months. Snowshoes are provided or bring your own. For ages 6+. $15-$19. eventbrite.com/e/snowshoe-under-the-stars-tickets-524697232547
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PEBBLE PUPS: 5:30pm, Traverse City VFW Multipurpose Room, 3400 Veterans Dr., TC. The Grand Traverse Area Rock and Mineral Club of Traverse City sponsors the Pebble Pups & Earth Science Scholars for this 45 minute session. The Pebble Pups explore the wonders of rock, mineral, & fossil collecting in Michigan. The purpose is to train Pebble Pups (grade school) & Earth Science Scholars (teens) to become skilled rockhounds while learning about Earth science. They meet the third Weds. of each month during the academic school year (Sept. - May). Free. tcrockhounds.com thursday
COFFEE @ 10, PETOS-
KEY: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Gilbert Gallery, Petoskey. Join local Michigan artist Robert Scudder. Robert is an oil artist whose minimalist works can be found in the Guild Member Salon Show. Free. crookedtree.org/event/ctacpetoskey/coffee-10-robert-scudder
LAKE LEADERS SUMMIT: 10am-noon, Antrim Conservation District, Bellaire. Meets quarterly to bring together community members who care about the health of the Elk River Chain of Lakes. antrimcd.com/events.html
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KID’S CRAFT LAB: CONSTELLATION PAINTING; URSA MAJOR: 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. In February, Black History Month, we remember how enslaved people escaping to the north used the Big Dipper & the North Star to find their way. Working with watercolor paint & salt, you will create a Big Dipper Bear. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org ----------------------
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS FORUM:
INDIA: ASIA’S NEW SUPERPOWER: 11:30am, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. In-person event with
7pm, Harbor Springs History Museum. A presentation by Craig Wilson. The fur trade powered the economy of the Great Lakes for nearly two centuries, & voyageurs were the engine that drove the fur trade. 231-526-9771.
HISTORY HOUNDS ON THE BIG SCREEN: 6:30pm, Bellaire Public Library. Join for the presentation “From Aladdin to Sears: A His tory of America’s Kit Houses.” Free. bellaire
MacInnis used research-based strategies for all three as a utility company communications manager &, more recently, as a local elected official. Register. $15; includes a buffet lunch. ncmclifelonglearning.com/event-5084247
TAI CHI: Noon, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Join dren’s Museum, TC. Build & stack with various types of blocks. Come into the Great Lakes Room anytime during the session. greatlakeskids.org
COFFEE @ 10, TC: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Carnegie West Gallery, TC. Tra- rental fee during the program or bring your own. $5/person. grassriver.org
“THE LARAMIE PROJECT”: (See Sat., Feb. 11)
BLISSFEST PRESENTS: CRYS MAT-
THEWS: 7:30pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Theater, Petoskey. Lyricist & composer Crys
KID’S CRAFT LAB: LOVE BUG GARLAND: 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. String up a little love for Valentine’s Day. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org
Center, Dutmers Theater, NMC, TC. Sole ad O’Brien investigates a city redevelopment lic housing & displace low-income residents in an effort to “revitalize” the area. Limit of 30 people per screening. Free; online registration
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DRINK SPECIALS
AVAILABLEORDERS 231-252-4157
BE HEALTHY, BE ACTIVE COOKING WORKSHOP: 3:30-5pm, Interlochen Public Library. Chef Susanne will show a few techniques, & then you can cook the whole recipe from start to finish. Limited to 10 people. Registration required: 231-276-6767.
$2 well drinks, $2 domestic drafts, $2.50 domestic bottles, $5 Hornitos margarita
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SUNDAY - $6 Ketel One Bloody Mary & $4 Mimosas
BICYCLE REPAIR CLINICS: 5pm, McLain Cycle & Fitness, 750 E. Eighth St., TC. Topics change every week. Free. mclaincycle.com
DAILY FOOD SPECIALS (3-6pm): Mon- $1 chips and salsa
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Tues- $1 enchiladas Thurs - $5 fried veggies
G.T. HUMANISTS MEETING: DEPOLARIZING POLITICAL DISCUSSIONS: 6pm, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Join the Grand Traverse Humanists for a presentation by Mike Radke, PhD from the organization als and Conservatives in the Same Room for
3:30pm, Arts for All of orthern Michigan, 1485 Barlow St., TC. Bring in-progress for a chance to share, & enjoy a
OFF-SEASON
Brahma Chellaney, Professor Emeritus of Strategic Studies, Centre for Policy Research (connecting from New Delhi), & Claudio Lilienfeld, former Acting Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South & Central Asia (on stage). 11am reception with light appetizers provided by Taste of India. $15 in-person ticket; $10 livestream suggested donation; free to current students & educators. tciaf.com/event-feb-16-2023 verse Area Camera Club members & award winners Marilyn Hoogstraten, Dale Devries & Carol Grelick will discuss their work. Free. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traverse-city/ coffee-10-traverse-area-camera-club
INDOOR SIDEWALK SALES: Downtown Charlevoix, Feb. 17-20. Enjoy bargains & more on a variety of merchandise at participating stores.
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GET
To Know Your
tel, Reycraft Room, Petoskey. Designed for new, existing & potential members to learn about the chamber & its programming & how to utilize the chamber to help your business or organization.
Call - 231-942-8127 HOSTED tons Bay Bingham District Library, lower level Community Meeting Room. Preschoolers of all ages are invited to join for stories, songs & active fun. Free. sbbdl.org ----------------------
STORYTIME ADVENTURES: 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Featuring “Who Will Be My Valentine This Year?” by Jerry Pallotta. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org ----------------------
PARKINSON’S NETWORK NORTH SUP-
PORT GROUP: 1pm, The Presbyterian Church of TC, 701 Westminster Rd. Mary Ellen Brown presents “Safe, Smart Travel with Parkinson’s,” What’s New?, & Care Partner time. Info: 947-7389. Free. pnntc.org
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TECHNOLOGY TUESDAY: 4pm, Glen Lake Library, Empire. Seniors needing assistance with personal technology are invited to drop by for this session, coordinated by Share Care of Leelanau. Volunteers will be on hand to help with a variety of common tech tasks: accessing the Web, downloading smartphone apps, working with Microsoft Word, accessing electronic books, & much more. Bring your device. Free. glenlakelibrary.net
“LOVE LETTERS BY A.R. GURNEY”: 6-8pm, Creative Pursuit, Gaylord. A funny & emotional portrait about the powerful connection of love across a 50 year time frame. Charcuterie hors d’oeuvres & wine will be served. Members: $30 single; $50 couple. Non-members: $35 single; $55 couple. gaylordarts.org wednesday
“DISRUPT & DISMANTLE: DISPLACEMENT IN THE MERMAID CITY”: 1pm & 2:30pm, Dennos Museum
SPECIALS!
READER CHEF, JR COOKING CLASS: 4-5pm, Interlochen Public Library. For ages 10-14. Learn a new recipe & be able to cook the meal from start to finish. Limited to 10 kids per class. Must register: 231-276-6767.
---------------------- tion video with Diane. Limited easels & other
TUES: DATE NIGHT
Buy one entree, get one 1/2 off (Not available 2/14)
4-6pm, Harbor Springs Area Chamber office, 118 E. Main St., Harbor Springs. Find out about the True North Golf Club & what’s happening in the area while having a beverage & some
WED: (Feb into March) 'Fins or Feathers' Featuring fresh fish/duck dishes...carried through the rest of the week & 15% off bottles of wine
SNOWSHOE UNDER THE STARS:
FEBRUARY SWIRL: 5:30-7pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Galleries, Petoskey. Enjoy appetizers from Petoskey Cheese, a selection of wines from Great Lakes Wine & Spirits, & live music from Lara Fullford. Tour the current art exhibitions: “Guild Members Salon Show” & “Kaleidoscope: Recent Work by Lindsey Claire Newman.” $25 members; $30 not yet members. crookedtree.org/event/ ctac-petoskey/february-swirl
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PRESIDENTS’ DAY WEEKEND SALE
EVENT: Downtown TC, Feb. 17-19. Enjoy sales at participating businesses. downtowntc. com/presidents-day-weekend-sale-event
STORYTIME: 10:30am, Leland Township Library, Leland. Stories & more for kids aged 0-6 & their caregivers. Free. lelandlibrary. org/programs-events
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TO-GO in the Dine Alps Dine Alps Visiting SLOVENIA Jan. 13-19 AUSTRIA Jan. 20-26 SWITZERLAND Jan. 27-Feb. 2 GERMANY Feb. 3-9 ITALY Feb. 10-16 FRANCE Feb. 17-23
THURS: PASTA SPECIAL 2 pasta dinners & a bottle of wine $59
* Sorry specials not available for take-out * Some restrictions may apply
5-7:30pm, The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, TC. Join experts from the Grand Traverse Conservation District to learn the ing a guided candlelight tour of the trees, ing the winter months. Snowshoes are provided or bring your own. For ages 6+.
Open Tues - Sat @ 5:30 4566 W. MacFarlane Rd 'Burdickville' trattoria-funistrada.com reservations 231-334-3900
5:30pm, Traverse City VFW Multipurpose Room, 3400 Veterans Dr., TC. The Grand Traverse Area Rock and Mineral Club of Traverse City sponsors the Pebble Pups & Earth Science Scholars for this 45 minute session. The Pebble Pups explore the wonders of rock, mineral, & fossil collecting in Michigan. The purpose is to train Pebble Pups (grade school) & Earth Science Scholars (teens) to become skilled rockhounds while learning about Earth science. They meet the third Weds. of each month during the academic school year (Sept. - May). Free. tcrockhounds.com thursday
COFFEE @ 10, PETOSKEY: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Gilbert Gallery, Petoskey. Join local Michigan artist Robert Scudder. Robert is an oil artist whose minimalist works can be found in the Guild Member Salon Show. Free. crookedtree.org/event/ctacpetoskey/coffee-10-robert-scudder
LAKE LEADERS SUMMIT: 10am-noon, Antrim Conservation District, Bellaire. Meets quarterly to bring together community members who care about the health of the Elk River Chain of Lakes. antrimcd.com/events.html
KID’S CRAFT LAB: CONSTELLATION PAINTING; URSA MAJOR: 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. In February, Black History Month, we remember how enslaved people escaping to the north used the Big Dipper & the North Star to find their way. Working with watercolor paint & salt, you will create a Big Dipper Bear. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS FORUM:
INDIA: ASIA’S NEW SUPERPOWER: 11:30am, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. In-person event with
VOYAGEURS OF THE FUR TRADE: 5:307pm, Harbor Springs History Museum. A presentation by Craig Wilson. The fur trade powered the economy of the Great Lakes for nearly two centuries, & voyageurs were the engine that drove the fur trade. 231-526-9771. ----------------------
HISTORY HOUNDS ON THE BIG SCREEN: 6:30pm, Bellaire Public Library. Join for the presentation “From Aladdin to Sears: A History of America’s Kit Houses.” Free. bellairelibrary.org
CRYS MATTHEWS: LIVE IN CONCERT: 7-9pm, Ramsdell Theatre, Manistee. This Journey of Discovery event is being held to honor the contributions of African Americans in Rural Michigan. Free; donations welcome. ramsdelltheatre.org
“CINDERELLA”: 7:30pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. The classic fairy tale comes to life through an enchanting ballet adaptation performed by Interlochen Arts Academy dance students. $25 adult; $10 youth. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/ interlochen-ballet-cinderella friday FREE VALENTINE’S
EVENT: For ages 60+. Enjoy dinner & a performance by Elvis Tribute artist Jake Slater. Held at Friendship Center of Harbor Springs. Music begins at 4pm; dinner at 5pm. Seating is limited & reservations required: 231-526-6061.
WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND: Downtown Petoskey, Feb. 17-20. Featuring ice carving demonstrations in the Park, Downtown shopping & restaurant specials, creative activities for children, a scavenger hunt through the Downtown shops, a Downtown Dollars shopping contest, & Winter Carnival events held at the Winter Sports Park - Bump Jumping & the Cardboard Sled Race. petoskeydowntown.com/events/winter-wonderland
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MORE TO EXPLORE: LOTS-A-BLOCKS: 9:30am, noon & 2:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Build & stack with various types of blocks. Come into the Great Lakes Room anytime during the session. greatlakeskids.org
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COFFEE @ 10, TC: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Carnegie West Gallery, TC. Tra-
LUNCHEON LECTURE: “WHAT DID YOU SAY?”: 11:30am, NCMC, Library Conference Center, Petoskey. The Three Mile Island nuclear plant accident in 1979, the Y2K controversy in 1999 &, more recently, the coronavirus pandemic presented major challenges for leaders trying to talk to the public about something strange & complex. Charlie MacInnis used research-based strategies for all three as a utility company communications manager &, more recently, as a local elected official. Register. $15; includes a buffet lunch. ncmclifelonglearning.com/event-5084247 ----------------------
TAI CHI: Noon, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Join for an introduction to Tai Chi, a systematic & gentle form of exercise & stretching that is good for all ages. Free. tadl.org/events
WINTER TRAILS DAY: 2-6pm, Palmer Woods Forest Reserve, Maple City. Join the staff of the Leelanau Conservancy along with Docents, Board & LC Collective members for a day of winter fun. Skis, snowshoes, & warm winter gear are recommended. 2pm: Ski the Price Valley Trail. 2:30pm: Docent Guided Snowshoe. 4pm: Fireside Chat. 4:30pm: Staffled Snowshoe. Dusk: Lantern-lit Snowshoeing. leelanauconservancy.org/winter-trails-day
42ND ANNUAL SNO-BLAST WINTER FESTIVAL: East Jordan, Feb. 17-19. Tonight includes the ORV Safari Ride. Leaves the East Jordan Trailblazers Clubhouse at 6pm. ejchamber.org/wp-content/ uploads/2023/02/2023-Schedule-of-EventsBrochure.pdf
CHEBOYGAN NORTHLAND PLAYERS
DINNER THEATER: Eagles Hall, Cheboygan. Featuring the comedy “The Second Time Around” by Henry Denker, presented under license with Concord Theatrical. Dinner at 6:30pm; show at 7pm. Reservations are required. Call 231-627-4051. $27. nlplayers.org/winter-dinner-theater
LANTERN-LIT SKI & SNOWSHOE: 6:30pm, Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. Enjoy a self-guided evening ski on groomed ski trails, or snowshoe the boardwalk to the river. There will be a campfire at the Center’s pavilion & the heated building will be open. Participate any time during the 2-hour, selfguided, “open-house” style ski or snowshoe. Bring a flashlight or headlamp. Skis & snowshoes for all ages are available for rent at the Grass River Center for an additional $5 rental fee during the program or bring your own. $5/person. grassriver.org
“THE LARAMIE PROJECT”: (See Sat., Feb. 11)
BLISSFEST PRESENTS: CRYS MATTHEWS: 7:30pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Theater, Petoskey. Lyricist & composer Crys
Matthews finds inspiration in her surroundings. Her songs are thoughtful, realistic & emotional. $20 Blissfest members; $25 GA. showclix. com/event/blissfest-presents-crys-matthews ----------------------
COMEDY W/ JERRY DONOVAN: 7:459:15pm, Traverse City Comedy Club, TC. Jerry is known for his quick wit & uncanny observations. He has worked with such notables as Kurt Russell, Jason Segal, & many others. $25-$30. mynorthtickets.com/events/ comedy-wjerry-donovan-2-17-2023
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JOHN PRINE TRIBUTE: 8pm, City Opera House, TC. Tickets start at $20. cityoperahouse.org/node/484
Saturday
INTER-LOCH-NESS
3-COUNTY ICE FISHING
DERBY: 6am, Long Lake Grocery, TC. Pre-register at Long Lake Grocery, TC & then fish in any body of water in Grand Traverse, Leelanau or Benzie counties. All legal types of fishing are allowed including fishing from a boat in Lake Michigan. There will be five divisions - lake trout, pike, perch, walleye and bluegill. You may enter as many divisions as you like. Fish can be weighed in at the Long Lake Grocery during store hours throughout the tournament. For more info on the official rules, call 946-4249. Awards ceremony on Sun., Feb. 19 at 3pm at Long Lake Grocery. $20 registration fee per division.
SLEDDING & S’MORES: Noon-3pm, Kiwanis Park, Harbor Springs. Free sledding, food, hot cocoa, & s’mores. Rides uphill from fire department. 231-526-2104.
42ND ANNUAL SNO-BLAST WINTER
FESTIVAL: East Jordan, Feb. 17-19. Today includes the Classic & Antique Snowmobile Show, Blessing of the Sleds & ORV’s, Chili Cook-Off, ORV & Snowmobile Obstacle Course, Radar Runs, Scavenger Hunt, Comedy/Variety Theater Show, Party at the Foundry Bar & Grill, & more. ejchamber.org/ wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2023-Schedule-of-Events-Brochure.pdf
FROSTY 5K: 9am, under the pavilion, 170 South Court Ave., Downtown Gaylord. $35 before Feb. 12; then price increases. runsignup.com/Race/MI/Gaylord/ AlpenFrostFrosty5K?aflt_token=vkmwDmw eQ4iCYn8otSOOnKQ3vCO8buOw
PETOSKEY CHILI TRAIL: 2-4pm, downtown Petoskey. Visit each participating store for chili samples & fun. petoskeyarea.com
WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND: (See Fri., Feb. 17)
INDOOR SIDEWALK SALES: (See Fri., Feb. 17)
KIDS CODING CLUB: 10am, Bellaire Public Library. Kids ages 5-18 are welcome to join for coding games, building robots, & creating 3D objects using a 3D printer. Free, but registration required: 231-533-8814. bellairelibrary.org
OPEN STUDIO: 10am-1pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Visual Arts Room, Petoskey. Drop-in free arts & crafts for the whole family. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/openstudio-february-18 ----------------------
PRESIDENTS’ DAY WEEKEND SALE
EVENT: (See Fri., Feb. 17)
“THE BEST YETI FEST THIS SIDE OF THE HIMALAYAS”: 10:30am-5:30pm, Suttons Bay. Featuring a Chili Cook-off, Interactive Scavenger Hunt, free screening of “Happy Feet” at the Bay Theatre at 2:30pm, Yeti Exploration & activities for children at the Suttons Bay Library, Yeti Cup Hockey Tournament at Ice Rink Park, face painting & hot chocolate at LIFT Teen Center, live music, & an Award Ceremony at Yeti Central at 5pm. suttonsbayarea.com/yetifest ----------------------
TEDDY KNAPE FEST: Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. Hit the slopes for raffles & giveaways. Held slopeside from 11am-4:30pm near the Crystal Clipper, with raffles at 3pm. Raffle items include a paddle board, new skis, goggles, helmets, ski luggage plus endless amounts of ski gear & swag. The Teddy Knape Fest benefits adaptive winter sports which allows special needs participants the ability to ski. crystalmountain.com/event/teddy-knape ----------------------
6TH ANNUAL WALLOON LAKE WINTERFEST: 12-4pm, Walloon Lake. Takes place indoors at The Talcott, Barrel Back Restaurant & Tommy’s Walloon. There will be complimentary snowshoe & cross-country ski rentals available at Tommy’s to explore local hiking trails. Enjoy the free Hot Chocolate Bar provided by Walloon Lake Inn. There will be giveaway prizes & drawings at businesses, & live ice carving in the Village Green Park from the Ice Brigades. The Petoskey Snowmobile Club will be holding their 5th Annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride beginning at the Petoskey Snowmobile Clubhouse. Free. eventbrite.com/e/6th-annual-walloon-lake-winterfest-tickets-510948830707?aff=erelexpmlt
WINTERFEST: 12-3pm, Boonedocks, Glen Arbor. Featuring a Perch Fishing Contest, followed by a Chili Cook-Off. $10. visitglenarbor.com/events/category/community-events
FEBRUARY FROLIC: 1-3pm, Whiting Park, Boyne City. This is part of Whiting Park’s Centennial Celebration. There will be snowshoeing (8+); snowshoes provided by Little Traverse Conservancy, story walk & animal homes discussion (ages 2-7+), a fire pit & hot chocolate. Free.
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WINTER HIKE: 1-3pm, Green Point Dunes, Frankfort. Join volunteer Sally Manke for this winter hike. The ridge trail offers great views of Lake Michigan & Lower Herring Lake. Bring winter gear, water, a snack & snowshoes. This a moderately strenuous event. Register. Free. gtrlc.org/recreation-events/events
DR. ANNA-LISA COX LECTURE: 2pm, Ramsdell Theatre, Manistee. “With Liberty and Justice for All: The Black Pioneers Who Upheld the Values of the American Revolution in Frontier Michigan and Manistee.” This Journey of Discovery event is being held to honor the contributions of African Americans in rural Michigan. Free; donations welcome. ramsdelltheatre.org
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INAUGURAL TRAVERSE CITY BOURBON FEST: Visions Weddings & Banquets, 12935 S West Bay Shore Dr., TC. Featuring 100+ whiskeys – most of them Bourbon. Two 3-hour sessions will be held at 4pm & 8pm where participants can sample whiskeys as well as beer & wine. There will also be food trucks, live music, vendors & more. Proceeds benefit Friends of the River. $10$100. traversecitybourbonfest.com
CHEBOYGAN NORTHLAND PLAYERS
DINNER THEATER: (See Fri., Feb. 17)
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MIRIAM PICO & DAVID CHOWN: 7pm, The Music House Museum, Williamsburg. Miriam is a local legend who has been honored with many awards. She is also the founder & owner of Little Bird School of Song. David is known locally & nationally for his piano playing. He is a performer & educator with degrees in Piano Technology & Jazz Studies. $25. musichouse.org/upcoming-events
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“THE LARAMIE PROJECT”: (See Sat., Feb. 11)
COMEDY W/ JERRY DONOVAN: 7:309pm, Traverse City Comedy Club, TC. Jerry is known for his quick wit & uncanny observations. He has worked with such notables as Kurt Russell, Jason Segal, & many others. $25-$30. mynorthtickets.com/events/ comedy-wjerry-donovan-2-17-2023
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SNOW BALL GALA FUNDRAISER: 8-11pm, The Dockside Inn, Cadillac. This is a formal dance (however all attire is welcome) with music, heavy appetizers, & a cash bar. You can spin the wheel & there will be raffle ticket prizes. All proceeds benefit Healing Private Wounds (who provides free counseling, group therapy, & programs). Please contact Healing Private Wounds to purchase tickets; or if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, email Jessica: hpwjessica@gmail. com. $25 per ticket.
TOM WILSON: 8pm, Freshwater Art Gallery & Concert Venue, Boyne City. Tom has played Freshwater twice before; once as the front man for Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, & once as Lee Harvey Osmond. He is also a writer & wrote his best-selling memoir “Beautiful Scars,” a painter & more. 231-582-2588. $40. facebook.com/FRESHWATERARTGALLERY sunday
INTER-LOCH-NESS
3-COUNTY ICE FISHING
DERBY: (See Sat., Feb. 18)
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42ND ANNUAL SNOBLAST WINTER FESTI-
VAL: East Jordan, Feb. 17-19. Today includes the East Jordan Trailblazers Sno-Lovers Breakfast, Scavenger Hunt & more. ejchamber.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2023Schedule-of-Events-Brochure.pdf
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WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND: (See Fri., Feb. 17)
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INDOOR SIDEWALK SALES: (See Fri., Feb. 17)
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PRESIDENTS’ DAY WEEKEND SALE
EVENT: (See Fri., Feb. 17)
SLOW, EASY HIKE: 1pm, Swanson Preserve, Cedar. Look closely at vegetation along the route, thinking about winter aesthetics, & talking about the importance of protecting watershed. Waterproof boots are a must. Snowshoes or yak tracks might be necessary if conditions warrant. Led by Docents Karin Jacobson, Sharon Oriel & Karl Hausler. leelanauconservancy.org/events/ slow-easy-hike-at-swanson-preserve
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THE HISTORY OF HELENA TOWNSHIP
CEMETERY: 2pm, Helena Township Community Center, Alden. Paul DeLange, president of Helena Township Historical Society, will discuss the origins of the cemetery, burial grounds, gravesites, graveyards & other facts. 231-331-4318.
“REMEMBERING PATSY CLINE”: 3pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. A tribute to the legendary Patsy Cline, featuring Judy Harrison & the band ReBooted. $15-$28 plus fees. tickets.oldtownplayhouse.com/TheatreManager/1/tmEvent/tmEvent436.html
GREAT LAKES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
SUNDAY SERIES: 4pm, First Presbyterian Church of Petoskey. Featuring the Achille Trio with Lynne Aspnes, harp; Libor Ondras, viola; & Abigail Walsh, flute. Includes Debussy’s Sonata for Flute, Viola, and Harp. Free. glcorchestra.org/sunday-series ----------------------
“THE AUDACITY TO LOVE”: A SOUL STIRRING SOUND EXPERIENCE: 6pm, City Opera House, TC. Featuring Seth Bernard, acoustic guitar & vocals; Crystal WoodwardTurner, vocals; David Chown, piano; & Karine Pierson, strings. $25, $30. cityoperahouse.org/ node/494
Ongoing
GREAT DECISIONS DISCUSSION
GROUP: Tuesdays through March, 1:30pm, Leelanau Township Library, Northport. 2023 Great Decisions with the Foreign Policy Association. Pick up a briefing book at the library & join for a deep dive into foreign affairs. leelanautownshiplibrary.org/newsevents/lib-cal/great-decisions-in-library-2
SNOWSHOES, VINES & WINES: 12-4pm, Black Star Farms, Suttons Bay. On Saturdays through the winter, explore easy to moderate trails & then warm up on the heated Terrace Patio & Hearth & Vine Café with wine & snacks. Onsite snowshoe rentals are available from noon - 4pm. Additional date includes Feb. 19, 2023. blackstarfarms.com/ snowshoes-vines-wines
RANGER-LED SNOWSHOE HIKES: Saturdays through March at 1pm, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Philip A. Hart Visitor Center, Empire. Rangers will first provide an introduction & basic snowshoeing instructions, & then everyone will travel by car to the trailhead or area of the National Lakeshore pre-selected for that day. Once there, the ranger will help participants learn about the park’s features & winter’s effect on them by exploring & discovering clues on site. Plan to be outside for about two hours. nps.gov/planyourvisit/ event-details.htm?id=3E7D5940-991FBB2C-DDC71C23B7DB9C99
VINE TO WINE SNOWSHOE TOUR: Saturdays, noon-4pm. Enjoy a snowshoe adventure through the vineyards & orchards to three wineries. The private vineyard trail connects Suttons Bay Ciders, Ciccone Vineyards, & Big Little Wines. This guided tour starts at Big Little Wines, Suttons Bay. The tour includes your snowshoe & pole rental, a catered warm lunch of chili & soups overlooking the bay, & a wine purchase pick up service. grandtraversebiketours.com/vineto-wine-snowshoe-tour.html
BABYTIME WITH MISS MICHELE: Tuesdays, 9:30am through Feb. Traverse Area District Library, TC. An interactive story time introducing early literacy to the youngest patrons. Geared toward families with children ages 0-12 months. tadl.org/events ----------------------
STEM MONDAY AT THE LIBRARY: Mondays, 4-5pm through Feb., Traverse Area District Library, Youth Services Story Room, TC. Learn about STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) concepts with hands-on STEM experiments to create a layered ex-
