Northern Express - July 08, 2024 by Northern Express

Cherry Picking the Divine

Mr. Tuttle wishes to cherry pick his sources on the Divine’s relationship to this nation. While he is correct that the Constitution doesn’t reference God, many other documents of our nation do reference God: the Declaration of Independence, the Pledge of Allegiance, and our currency to name a few, all make reference to God. In fact, many State Constitutions reference God.

The Founding Fathers clearly understood the principles of a nation Divinely ruled as “one nation under God”—it was foundational.* John Adams said, “Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”

God gives us all free will; He will not violate His own principles, so God will let this nation do as it pleases. I pray for our nation and hope people will repent and turn back to God because in the end God will not be mocked.

Howard Turek | Kewadian

*Editor’s note: The Founding Fathers did not write the Pledge of Allegiance. It was written in 1892 by Christian socialist Baptist minister Francis Bellamy. In 1954, the phrase “under God” was added after Congress and President Eisenhower passed legislation to make the change, largely in response to the threat of secular Communism.

Don’t Build Fires

The cover photo of the Northern Express July 24-30 Camping and the Great Outdoors issue promoted one of the very “Don’ts of the Dunes” listed on page 11 of the same issue.**

An open fire on a sandy beach may conjure up cozy, intimate times on Lake Michigan with friends but, as explained on page 11, isn’t permitted [inside Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore grounds] because it’s not within a designated fire ring at a campsite and also violates Leave no Trace ethics because forever thereafter will be evidence of this fire. Think of hundreds of dirty charcoal bits spread throughout the sand. Nobody chooses to spread their blanket upon such a mess for their next picnic. When enough folks do this, even in one summer’s time, it can trash a oncepristine beach.

Please readers, don’t build fires on the beaches and discourage those around you.

Lisa Franseen | Traverse City

**Editor’s note: The cover photo referenced above was not taken at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

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

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Carnival lights, parade floats, and daily live music acts will take over Gaylord when Alpenfest returns for its 59th year, July 9-13. This time-honored celebration pays homage to the town’s Alpine theme, which means lederhosen is the outfit of choice and Bavarian eats and treats will never be more than a stone’s throw away. (There actually is a stone throwing contest, just in case you want to test that theory.) Highlights of the festival include multiple parades and concerts, the TJ Schmidt carnival, Alpenfest Idol and the Alpenfest Queens and Princess pageants, brat and pie eating contests, and so much more. We particularly like the Burning of the Böögg (pictured), when you write down your worries and woes and then let them burn away. See the full week of events at gaylordalpenfest.com/2024-schedule.

We’re all for a versatile meal in the summer, and the Laab ($12) at Samsara Southeastern Asian Cuisine in Traverse City is about to be your new go-to! This fresh and citrusy chicken salad, which staff has lovingly nicknamed “Laotian ceviche,” features a base of steamed and minced poultry, pan-fried with whole lime and mixed with ground rice powder. Next come the veggies, which rotate seasonally and often feature traditional flavors like onion, shallot, mint, and chili powder. From there, the whole thing’s garnished with romaine and cucumber and served in crisp cabbage cups, the perfect vessel for scooping bite after brimming bite straight into your mouth! Dip it, spread it, and definitely share it—just don’t forget to take your leftovers! Enjoy a plate at Samsara Southeast Asian Cuisine in Chums Corners at 4025 Chums Village Dr. in Traverse City. (231) 486-6155; @samsaratvc

Pick your theme while enjoying one of America’s favorite pastimes with the Traverse City Pit Spitters! Go Triassic at Turtle Creek Stadium with “Dinos in the Dugout” on July 9 at 7:05pm; July 10 is a double header with “Business & Baseball” at 11:05am and “Halloween Night” at 7:05pm; July 11 is “90’s Night”; and then July 14 the Pit Spitters play the Kokomo Jackrabbits at 5:05pm for “Wands & Wizards Night.” For tickets and more info, visit northwoodsleague.com/traverse-city-pit-spitters.

Hey, read It! Sunrise Nights

You heard it here first! While the book won’t be released until July 9, Northern Express got an early copy of Sunrise Nights by Brittany Cavallaro and Jeff Zentner, a stunning novel in verse set at an arts camp in Michigan. (Cavallaro is an instructor at Interlochen—you do the math!) Protagonists Jude and Florence share one whirlwind night at the end of camp…then promise to go their separate ways until they meet one year later. The characters fight and ache and love and dream, and you’ll want to linger over the poetry on every page. Cavallaro is a published poet and is known for her bestselling Charlotte Holmes series, while Zentner is a Nashville musician and songwriter who has won countless awards for his young adult novels. Catch the writers on July 13 at Brilliant Books in Traverse City for a book event and signing at 7pm.

Photo by John Pradarelli

Looking to the Stars 6

The grounds of Headlands International Dark Sky Park near Mackinaw City are open to the public 365 days a year, but they’re extra busy in the summer months with a slate of free and informative programming for all ages. This week, catch “Satellites, Starlink, and Space Junk” with physics and astronomy professor Aurelian Balanh on July 11 from 8-9pm. Learn about the impact of satellites on our planet, how they’re changing the night sky, and the future of the space race. On July 15, meteorologist Ross Ellet will break down the science of the aurora at 7pm. While catching the northern lights is never a sure thing, Ellet will help you make a plan to find them when the magnetic fields and solar flares align. See these events and more at midarkskypark.org/programs-events/headlands-events-schedule.

Parkway Progress

After a three-week break, Team Elmers and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) are back to work on the Grandview Parkway reconstruction in Traverse City. July 8 marks the start of Segment 2 of the project, which is expected to last until November. From now until Labor Day (tentatively), crews will work on the eastbound lanes of US-31 between the Front St/Grandview Parkway intersection and Division St. The lanes will be closed during construction, with one lane of US-31 traffic maintained in each direction on the westbound lanes. Around Labor Day, traffic will shift to the completed eastbound lanes. Be alert for new vehicle and pedestrian detours as you navigate downtown TC! More information can be found at traversecitymi.gov/projects/mdot-grandview-parkway-project.html.

Stuff We Love: Extra Food for Our Pets

Hoop’s Pet Food Pantry of Traverse City helps supply more than 400 pets with food each month. The pantry operates out of Square Deal Country Store (900 Woodmere Ave) from 11am-2pm the first and third Saturdays of the month, offering pet food to neighbors and their furry friends in need. The pantry just announced several big wins: Thanks to a grant from the Oleson Foundation, they will be able to purchase a trailer to help transport and distribute food. They also received funding from the Art and Mary Schmuckal Family Foundation to support pet food purchases to keep the pantry stocked. The organization is volunteer run and primarily relies on community donations to achieve their mission of “neighbors helping neighbors keep people with their pets.”

Learn more at hoopspfp.org.

American Spoon’s Peach Punch Bottoms Up

Antiques, vintage and home decor. Large Pyrex collection, depression glass, costume jewelry and furniture!

9053 Helena Rd, • Downtown Alden 231-331-5039 • graceofalden.com

It’s almost peach season in northern Michigan! While we wait for the orchard fruit to ripen, American Spoon is already way ahead of the game with their newest summer cocktail mix, Peach Punch ($21.95). Made from Lake Michigan Red Haven peaches—plus some lemon, lime, and passion fruit for a citrusy kick—a jar of this sweet nectar goes a long way. We first enjoyed it as recommended in a Peach Punch Cocktail: one part bourbon, two parts peach mix, and topped with soda. But our favorite flavor combo was to pair the American Spoon concoction with Mawby’s Green sparkling wine for a bright, slightly tart take on the classic Bellini. Find a jar at an American Spoon store in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Charlevoix, or Traverse City, or order online at spoon.com.

LET'S LOOK AT THE NUMBERS

spectator

By steven Tuttle

Some themes have now emerged from the 2024 presidential campaign, and much of it has been consistently inaccurate.

For example, Republicans tell us Joe Biden has rigged the judicial system, weaponized the government, ruined the economy, allowed crime to run rampant over American cities, and that we are no longer respected in the rest of the world. Quite a list, but, fortunately, these are mostly areas in which significant data is available. Let’s look at the numbers.

We’ll start with the judicial system and Trump’s convictions in New York criminal and civil trials. As we know, he was convicted of 34 felony counts in the criminal trial and was forced to pay a woman millions after having been found to have sexually abused her many years ago.

to the FBI, the murder rate dropped 10 percent in 2023, and there were also reductions in assault, gun crimes, and burglary, though auto thefts increased. Similar data was reported by the Council on Criminal Justice.

New York City, which some political candidates like to claim is a cesspool of dangerous crime, actually had 416 fewer murders in 2023 than in 2022, the fourth lowest number in the last three decades. Neither New York City nor New York state rank near the top of violent crime statistics, as those honors go elsewhere and pretty much ignore partisanship.

28 percent of those surveyed in 34 countries said they had “confidence” in Trump, while 43 percent expressed “confidence” in Biden.

The accusation New York prosecutor Alvin Bragg is a Democrat partisan who was out “to get” Trump is fair enough. Bragg is, in fact, a partisan who ran bragging he would prosecute Trump. But 23 regular New York citizens on the grand jury decided crimes had been committed, and the 12 person trial jury determined Trump was guilty of those crimes. The federal government, at any level, was not involved. Nor were they involved in the E. Jean Carroll sexual abuse case, a civil matter brought by Carroll and not the government.

It isn’t Biden’s fault Trump is a convicted criminal and a sex abuser.

The economy is not exactly a trainwreck or even a train delay. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), inflation is 3.27 percent, down from 4.7 percent last year and way down from 8.0 percent in 2022. The Consumer Price Index is still high. Inflation needs more downward movement but is hardly out of control.

Job growth continues to outstrip projections, and, according to the BLS, non-farm employment of 156.9 million Americans has blown past pre-pandemic numbers by more than four million jobs. Unemployment is a tick under 4 percent, not a number that especially troubles economists.

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, real gross domestic product (GDP) rose 1.4 percent in the first quarter of 2024 after a robust gain of 3.4 percent in the last quarter of 2023. GDP has grown in each quarter since the start of 2021. Additionally, personal income increased at a rate of about 6 percent annually.

All of which points to a steadily and consistently improving economy, not a disaster.

Crime is not out of control, either. According

The states with the highest violent crime rates (murder, non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, and robbery) were New Mexico, Arkansas, and Louisiana, the first controlled by Democrats and the next two by Republicans. Those with the lowest violent crime rates were New Hampshire (R), Maine (D), and Idaho (R).

Crime and crime prevention are not partisan issues.

One supposes how the rest of the world views us can be subjective but, fortunately, Pew Research Center has done significant polling on the subject. In 2020, they surveyed 36,923 respondents in 33 countries, asking if they had confidence that Donald Trump would “do the right thing.” A stunning 64 percent said they had “no confidence” Trump would do the right thing.

In similar research in 2024, 28 percent of those surveyed in 34 countries said they had “confidence” in Trump, while 43 percent expressed “confidence” in Biden. That confidence gap balloons to 40 points in Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Poland, and elsewhere. So our international reputation seems to be surviving, at least in terms of one candidate versus the other.

Nor, as some have suggested, have we suddenly become submissive to China or Russia or anybody else. If you liked the Trump tariffs, then you have to like the Biden tariffs because he left nearly all in place. And Biden’s policy of trying to arm Ukraine to the teeth doesn’t seem like being subservient to Russia, with whom they are at war.

As for “weaponizing” the government, what do the critics think the Department of Justice actually does? They are, and always have been, the government’s weapon.

There are legitimate criticisms of President Biden, but they don’t include a failed economy, rampant crime, or loss of the international respect they think Trump had. His opponents just made that up.

DEED RESTRICTIONS AND YEAR-ROUND HOUSING

Guest Opinion

by Yarrow Brown

In the peak of the summer, I keep thinking about the locals. We love our tourist economy and the fact that we have a desirable place for people to visit or relocate to. But how can we ensure there is enough housing for everyone in our region?

Housing for ALL is the new phrase I am using. It’s not just the workforce—to keep a vibrant community, we must ensure we have people here year-round to support everyone who lives here. The workforce, the volunteers, the retirees, the kids in our schools, the visitors, and more.

The town of Breckenridge, Colorado, has a “Housing Helps Program” to help locals gain access to housing. This includes a deed restriction acquisition program with the goal to incentivize current homeowners and real

shortage of housing to serve the needs of local families and employees.

Breckenridge realized this impacts the ability of businesses to recruit and retain employees and provide the products and services needed. The lack of housing also impacts the character of a community when locals are unable to live in the community where they work. By agreeing to deed restrict a property, the residents understand they are helping Breckenridge retain a variety of housing options for locals.

Breckenridge also aims to purchase units through its buy-down program and add deed restrictions. This comes at a time when long-term rental properties are being converted to seasonal or short-term rentals (STRs). We are also experiencing this in our region of Michigan. While Housing

to keep a vibrant community, we must ensure we have people here year-round to support everyone who lives here.

estate buyers to deed restrict their marketrate property to help maintain homes for the local workforce in the community.

A deed restriction is an agreement tied to the title of the property that restricts the use to year-round housing in the area or specific unit of government. The document is then recorded in the county records. The deed restriction will remain with the property in perpetuity, and future owners will be subject to the same restricted use.

In Breckenridge, there are two types of deed restriction: light deed restriction (15-19 percent of the purchase price) or a full deed restriction (20-30 percent of the purchase price). For both, the property must be occupied or long-term rented by someone working at least 30 hours per week in Summit County. (Not every community includes work requirements. And whoever is the holder of the deed restriction is obligated to monitor and enforce the terms.)

In addition to the Housing Helps Program, there is a fund called the Housing Helps Fund, which is an incentive for owners to make their homes deed restricted. Using the fund, the town will pay owners 15-30 percent of the value of their property in return for a deed restriction on homes that are currently unrestricted. The amount paid depends on the market and the request for either the light or full deed restriction. Recipients may use the funds for down payment, home repairs, special assessments, etc.

The goal of this program is to help locals stay in the community where they can live, work, play, and raise their families. Similar to northwestern Michigan, Breckenridge obtained a Housing Needs Assessment, which indicated there was a significant

North is not opposed to STRs, we encourage units of government to understand all of their housing stock—year-round, seasonal, short-term, commercial—so they can make informed decisions for their housing needs.

In Breckenridge, Vail, Cape Cod, and other tourist areas, deed restriction programs have become a way to encourage more local housing. Many of these local governments are also looking at buying property and reselling it to the interested buyer with a deed restriction in place, which would accomplish the goal of housing locals while preventing the buyer from reselling the unit as a STR. A deed restriction program is the best option to ensure the unit stays in the local pool and doesn’t convert to an STR.

We are working on a similar program in the City of Charlevoix, where the goal is to encourage more year-round residents. In Charlevoix, Housing North holds six deed restrictions for year-round housing. This program came about in 2020 when the City realized only 38 percent of their residents lived in the city year-round.. Leaders learned about the Vail Indeed program and partnered with Housing North. They have a long-term goal to have at least 50 percent of their residents living in the city year-round

In Michigan, the new housing tools require the units to be for year-round housing. But these tools are only for certain time periods (10, 15, or up to 30 years). Many think we still need assurance these will be available well into the future. However, without a funding or revenue source, it will be difficult to pay for deed restrictions in our region.

Yarrow Brown is the executive director of Housing North, a 10-county housing agency serving northwest Michigan.

Artisan Brunch

SUNDAYS | 10AM - 2PM

Join us for our delightful à la carte brunch featuring fresh seasonal favorites, including our delicious Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. artisantc.com

It's a Dirty Job

Perhaps the stresses of HOA board membership just weigh heavily on some people. An unnamed 74-year-old woman in New Palestine, Indiana, is facing charges of criminal trespass, criminal mischief and public nudity after she was caught not once, but twice, defecating in broad daylight against the side of a neighbor's home, Fox59TV reported. According to court documents, the homeowner was mowing his lawn on May 29 when he discovered a pile of human feces next to his air conditioning unit. His surveillance cameras had first caught the culprit on May 2, but after the second incident, he contacted police. The woman can clearly be seen in the video lowering her trousers and squatting to empty her bowels. She initially denied the act but admitted it once confronted with the evidence; she said she had nothing against the homeowner and simply had to go. She has stepped down from her position on the HOA board.

The Tech Revolution

At Crescent Regional Hospital near Dallas, Texas, patients are for the first time in the U.S. consulting with doctors via hologram, ABC News reported on June 26. The technology, designed by Dutch company Holoconnects, features a life-sized 3D image of the doctor in real time. Raji Kumar, the hospital's CEO, said the technology will reduce doctors' travel time between hospitals and clinics. "They can just hop into the studio to have the consult," she said. She hopes to expand the program to rural hospitals in the area.

CATERING Easy

The Continuing Crisis

Edward Kang, 20, is facing a long stretch without gaming after he allegedly assaulted a fellow online gamer on June 22, ABC News reported. Kang, who lives in New Jersey, flew from Newark to Jacksonville, Florida, on June 21, where he checked in to a hotel and purchased a hammer and flashlight at a hardware store. Late on June 22, he arrived at the victim's home in Fernandina Beach, entering the home through an unlocked door, "apparently to confront the victim," said Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper. When the victim got up from gaming to use the restroom, Kang allegedly attacked him with the hammer. The victim's stepfather heard the altercation and helped to wrestle Kang to the ground; officers said the victim sustained severe head wounds and they found "a significant amount of blood." Kang told deputies that the victim is a "bad person online." He was charged with attempted second-degree murder and armed burglary.

How Hot Is It?

It's so hot ... Abe Lincoln's legs are falling off. A 6-foot-tall wax replica of the sculpture of our 16th president inside the Lincoln Memorial is succumbing to the extreme temperatures in Washington, D.C., the Washington Post reported on June 24. The statue was placed on the campus of Garrison Elementary School in February with the idea of drawing attention to the Civil War and its aftermath. But as the heat dome settled over the capital, he started melting. "The idea was that the ambient temperature, unless it got to 140 degrees, wouldn't melt the sculpture," said artist Sandy Williams IV of Richmond, Virginia. But "even his poor legs

are starting to come unglued," said Melissa Krull, 41, who lives nearby. Lincoln's head lolled so far backward that the nonprofit that commissioned the work removed it, with plans to restore it to its perch when temps moderated.

Least Competent Criminal

Kelsey Lynn Schnetzler, 34, of Salisbury, Missouri, was charged with stealing thousands of dollars' worth of lottery tickets from her employer, Casey's General Store, KTVO-TV reported. Schnetzler's homecourt MO may have been what got her nicked: Every evening during her shift, she told police, she would put a cup over the camera in the store and unlock the safe where the tickets were stored. Her burglaries took place between October 2023 and March 2024; the 36 lottery books she stole were valued at $24,000. She cashed winning tickets in at Casey's and other locations. She was charged with felony stealing.

Pay No Attention to the Body in the Backseat

On the morning of June 22, after Margot Lewis, 32, of North Liberty, Iowa, crashed her car in Olmsted County, Minnesota, police arrived at the scene, the Des Moines Register reported. There they discovered the dead body of 35-year-old Liara Tsai of Minneapolis in the back seat. Tsai was "wrapped in a bedsheet, a blanket, a futon-style mattress and a tarp," court documents said. Police said Tsai also had a "large wound on the right side of the neck around the carotid artery." The medical examiner determined that Tsai's injuries were not related to the motor vehicle accident. Lewis was arrested for interference with a dead body; her unconditional bond was set at $1 million.

Ewwwwwwwww!

The CBC reported on June 18 that conditions at Her Majesty's Penitentiary in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, have deteriorated so drastically that inmates are literally sharing cells -- and more -with rats. Inmate Devon Fitzpatrick told an interviewer that he woke up one morning to the feeling of something moving in the crotch of his pants; when he reached down, he found a rat had given birth there. "Stuff like that happens on a regular basis," he said of the Victorian-era facility. "They climb on the tables, they climb up the pipes and the wires. They're everywhere." He said he's been bitten about 20 times. Fitzpatrick also described other dehumanizing conditions at the prison; the government has said it's working with a company to build a new prison, but no improvements have been made in the meantime.

Redneck Chronicles

At the Walmart in Eunice, Louisiana, police were called around 3:30 p.m. on June 22 about a group of women who were fighting, KADN-TV reported. They arrested Brionka Benjamin, 38, and her niece, Makatelynn Benjamin, 20, for simple battery, but Brionka got an additional charge: When the fight began, police discovered on surveillance video, she allegedly tossed her baby into a trash can near the entrance to the store so her hands would be free to slug another woman. She was charged with cruelty to juveniles; the baby was unharmed and released to relatives.

2024 SUM MER MUSI C LINEU P

7/1 - Hannah Rose Graves

7/2 - Earth Radio

7/3 - King Possum

7/4 - Charlie Millard Band

7/5 - Elizabeth Reed

7/6 - Distant Stars

7/12 - Moss Manor

7/13 - Mega Weedge

7/19 - Lighting Matches

7/20 - Grace Theisen

7/26 - Sprout and the Orange + Sqwerv

7/27 - Sprout and the Orange

7/28 - The Hey Makers

8/2 - Luke Winslow-King

8/3 - Luke Woltanski Band

8/9 - 1000 Watt Prophets

8/10 - Birdie Country

8/16 - Steve Leaf & Co. present: Weezer 's Blue Album

8/17 - Pocket Watch

8/23 - Tim Jones wsg StoneFolk

8/24 - Kanin Wren's " Taylor Swift Experience"

8/30 - HWT

8/31 - DaVeonce & the Funk Gang

9/1 - The Charlie Millard Band + The Go Rounds

9/6 - Fangs & Twangs

9/7 - One Ton Trolley

9/13 - Rolling Dirty

9/14 - Angela Perley

9/20 - Melophobix

9/27 - Frank An Da Beanz

7/1 - Spencer Hollenbeck

7/2 - Steve Brown

7/3 - Brian McCosky

7/5 - Keith Scott

7/6 - Real Ingredients

7/7 - Highway North

7/9 - Petko Music

7/10 - Mulebone

7/12 - Jen Sygit

7/13 - Jazz Cabbage

7/14 - Pete Fetters

7/17 - Alex Teller

7/18 - Blair Miller

7/19 - TC Knuckleheads

7/20 - Botala

7/ 21 - DJ Clark

7/25 - Porcelain Train

7/27 - Alex Teller + Ben Traverse

7/31 - Earth Radio

8/1 - Headwaters Band

8/2 - The Hay Makers

8/3 - Botala

8/4 - Keith Scott

8/8 - Spencer Hollenbeck

8/9 - The Groove Suns

8/10 - Real Ingredients

8/11 - Jen Sygit

8/15 - Blair Miller

8/16 - Jeff Socia

8/17 - Brian McCosky

8/18 - Randy Reszka

8/23 - Porcelain Train

8/24 - DJ Clark

8/25 - Gemini Moon

8/30 - Keith Scott

8/31 - Flylite Gemini

9/6 - Chris Michels

9/13 - Rebel Eves

V isit sh o r t sb re wing. co m / e vents f o r set tim es and e v en mo r e FREE sh o ws. Line up subje c t t o c hange .

21 July Events 21 July Events

FROM MANISTEE TO MACKINAW CITY

By Rachel Pasche

It’s no secret that July is a busy month Up North. From the National Cherry Festival to Elk Rapids Harbor Days, it’s wall-to-wall activities, events, and festivals. If you want to get out and about—but without 100,000 of your closest friends—we found 21 can’t-miss events happening around the North this month. Explore away!

1. SUNSET SOUND HEALING AT THE INN AT BAY HARBOR

July 8, 15, 22, 29

Let the sounds of the Lake Michigan waves and crystal singing bowls, gongs, chimes, and drums carry you off into total relaxation. These guided meditation sessions at the Inn at Bay Harbor provide a yoga mat, blanket, eye pillow, and seat pillow—all you’ll need to bring is warm and comfortable clothing. Tickets are $40/person. innatbayharbor.com/events/ sunset-sound-healing

2. NATIONAL WRITERS SERIES GUEST ERIK LARSON

July 11

The National Writers Series welcomes bestselling author Erik Larson to the lineup to discuss his newest book, The Demon of Unrest, a nonfiction that carries readers through a pivotal period in history between Lincoln’s election and the beginning of the Civil War. “His new work reads more like a novel and is impossible to put down,” Noelle Riley, marketing and communications director at NWS, says. “Attendees can expect a candid conversation between Larson and NWS co-founder Doug Stanton about why it’s important to dig deep into history to understand our current state in society.” The event takes place at City Opera House in Traverse City at 7pm. nationalwritersseries.org/ erik-larson/

3. SHAY DAYS IN HARBOR SPRINGS

July 12-13

The Harbor Springs Area Historical Society puts on its 26th annual Shay Days celebration of Ephraim Shay, famous for his patented, geared locomotive. You’ll get to see live model steam trains, historic toys and games, logging demonstrations, interactive electric train layouts, and more! Visit Shay Park and the History Museum between 10am-3pm each

day. harborspringshistory.org/ events/calendar/shay-days/shaydays-event.html

4. INTERACTIVE ALPACA TOURS

July 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27

Meet and feed the alpacas at Cotton Creek Farms in Thompsonville! Attendees will be able to give the alpacas some tasty treats and gentle pets as the owners answer questions and teach about these cute and cozy creatures. Tours run from 12:30-1:30pm and are $5 for kids, $10 for adults. Get more info at cottoncreekfarms.com.

5. MACKINAW CITY FIREWORKS

July 13, 20, 27

Didn’t get your fill of fireworks over Fourth of July? Never fear: Mackinaw City has the booms and sparkles and colors running all summer long. Shows start at dusk (around 10-10:30pm) over the Straits of Mackinac. Popular spots include Alexander Henry Park, Wawatam Park, and the trails near Fort Michilimackinac. mackinawcity.net/mackinawcity/ events/1/

6. TRAVERSE CITY WHISKEY CO.’S CHERRY WHISKEY FESTIVAL

July 13

Food trucks, live music, yard games, and all things cherry (and whiskey) await visitors at the fifth annual Traverse City Whiskey Co. Cherry Whiskey Festival. Enjoy the fun from 12-4pm, as well as the release of their nine-yearaged single barrel cherry whiskey.

Tickets are $30 online or $35 at the door. tcwhiskey.com/events-classes

7. ELK RAPIDS CRAFT SHOW

July 13

Support over 70 vendors displaying their art and wares at the Elk Rapids Craft Show. Visitors can see demonstrations, find gifts, and shop for art in the village on River Street from 10am-4pm. The show is free and open to the public. elkrapidschamber.org/artscrafts-show/

8. TOUR DE TART

July 19

Whether you’ve always intended to ride the TART Trail from Traverse City to Suttons Bay or it’s something you do regularly, participating in the Tour de TART is a great way to take advantage of this trail—plus get a picnic dinner and a ride back to Traverse City via bus (bikes will be transported as well). Janna Goethel, special events coordinator for TART, says participants will get an “exceptional meal by the VI Grill, root beer floats, local pies, local brews, wines, and ciders.” Stops along the way include cash bars for snacks and drinks, too! All proceeds from the event go toward adding more mileage and maintenance on the TART Trail network. Cyclists head out between 4-6:30pm to keep the crowds staggered, and the last bus from Suttons Bay to Traverse City departs at 9pm. Registration is $45 for adults; $25 for kids 17 and under. traversetrails.org/ event/tour-de-tart

9. BEAVER ISLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL

July 18-20

Music festivals these days bring to mind crowded stage areas, traffic issues, and pricey snacks and libations, but the Beaver Island Music Festival—at the Beaver Island Hideaway Campground— is a breath of fresh air. With campsites on the festival grounds, seated areas to enjoy the music, and a family- and pet-friendly atmosphere, this is a festival where everyone can relax and enjoy the music. Tickets start at $65 for a day pass. bimf.net

10. BOCCE TOURNAMENT, VILLAGE AT GRAND TRAVERSE COMMONS

July 20

Compete for prizes (and bragging rights) at the 16th annual Bocce tournament at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. The tournament starts at 10am and includes a picnic lunch break (players bring their own food and beverages). Registration is $80 per team; teams of four can register at tiny.cc/XVIBocce or by calling 231-941-1900 ext. 118.

11. TACO AND TEQUILA FESTIVAL

July 20

Tantalize your taste buds with some of Michigan’s best tacos and world-renowned tequila all in one place. The festival, started in 2018, comes to Traverse City’s Turtle Creek Stadium this summer with live music alongside stand-out food and drinks. Sounds like a recipe for a lovely summer night! The event runs

from 5-10pm, tickets start at $39. tacoandtequilafestmi.com/tickets

12. FRIENDS OF FISHTOWN 5K

July 20

Run through historic Fishtown during this fundraising race event held in Leland. With some small hills and descents, serious and novice runners alike can enjoy this chip-timed race. Proceeds benefit ongoing preservation efforts in Fishtown. Registration is $40; the race begins at 9am at 201 W. River St. runsignup.com/Race/MI/ Leland/Fishtown5K

13.

CADILLAC BUSHCRAFT SURVIVAL AND WILD EDIBLES CLINIC

July 19-21

Ever wanted to learn the basics of bushcraft? This three-day class, taught by woodsman Edward Shaw, gives attendees a crash course on the necessities of surviving out in the wild. Topics include navigating with a map and compass, wilderness first aid, preparing water for drinking, plants to eat and plants to avoid, matchless fire starting, and more. The cost of the class is $110. michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/ calendar/2024/07/19/mitchellstate-park-july-19-21-bushcraftsurvival-and-wild-edibles-clinic

14. NORTHPORT SUMMER ART AND CRAFT SHOW

July 20-21

Stroll around Haserot Park and peruse the fine art at the second annual Northport Summer Art and Craft show. Visitors will find sculptures, fiber art, jewelry,

paintings, photography, woodwork, and more at this free event. The show runs from 10am until 5pm both days.

15. ABRA BERENS AND WOMEN IN WINE DINNER AT WILLOWBROOK MILL

July 25

Willowbrook Mill in Northport is welcoming chef and cookbook author Abra Berens to host a Women in Wine dinner, featuring recipes from Berens’ cookbooks and wines from Kasey Wierzba, executive winemaker at Shady Lane Cellars. The five-course meal includes some of Berens’ favorite recipes, alongside award-winning whites such as the Pinot Gris, Late Harvest Riesling, and Gruner Veltliner made by Wierzba. “We will be locally sourcing as much product as we can so diners will be able to recreate these dishes at home,” says Mimi Heberlein, proprietor and general manager of Willowbrook Mills. Heberlein promises guests a one-of-a-kind experience, saying, “They’ll be entering a space that has been designed for this event only—the seating, the menu, the carefully curated pairings, the decor—everything is taken into consideration.” Tickets are $145; mynorthtickets.com/events/abra-berenswomen-in-wine-7-25-2024

16. FARM CLUB GARDEN TOUR

July 25

If you’ve ever wanted a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to be farm-totable, the Farm Club Garden Tour is where you want to be. Led by Gary Jonas or Nic Theisen (co-owners of Farm Club), the tour explores farming practices, why and how they grow the produce on the farm, and how the farm drives the menu at Farm Club. Tickets are $10/person, the tour runs from 11am-12pm. farmclubtc.com/events/farmclub-garden-tour

17. PLANT IT WILD FIELD TRIP THROUGH THE BOG

July 26

Trek through a unique wetland environment and learn about some of the native plants that grow there. Liana May leads this field trip, which starts at 10am and wraps up at 12pm. Among the plants visitors can expect to see are delicate white fringed bog orchids. The only pro tip? Bring your boots! plantitwild.net/calendar-of-events.

18. RUN THE PIER RACE SERIES

July 27

Get some exercise and support local nonprofits at the Run the Pier Race Series in Manistee. Participants can choose a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or full marathon. (The shorter two courses run down and back Manistee North Pier Lighthouse, too!) Racers can enjoy the post-race celebration at Duffy Park for live music, beer tents, and more. Registration starts at $35. runsignup. com/Race/MI/Manistee/RTP5K

SUMMER 2024

19. LATIN DANCE CLASS AT BLACK STAR FARMS

July 27

Whether you love Latin dancing or you’re totally new, spending an evening dancing in a scenic barn is hard to pass up. Professional instructors Naitvidad Kolb and Ramon Gaitan kick off the night with a 45-minute lesson, followed by 90 minutes of open dancing to work on what you’ve learned and fine-tune your moves. Tickets start at $15. mynorthtickets.com/events/latin-dancingat-black-star-farms-7-27-2024

20. TC DANCE PROJECT

July 28

Enjoy a free performance by professional dancers courtesy of the TC Dance Project. While the show begins at 3pm, the audience is welcome to arrive early to enjoy pre-show music by Jordan Hamilton and his band, as well as a free kids’ dance class. The show takes place at the Kalkaska Railroad Square Pavilion. If you can’t make it, check out the company’s full list of events (including stops in Frankfort, Charlevoix, and Traverse City) at tcdanceproject.org.

21. COMEDY MIXTAPE #12 AT THE WORKSHOP

July 28

Come for the laughs, stay for the beer. The Workshop Brewing Co. is hosting a comedy night full of improv, parody songs, original sketches, stand-up, and more. The event runs from 7-9pm, and an honor cover of $10 is suggested. traversecityworkshop. com/events

JULY 9

JULY 10

JULY 11

JULY 13

JULY 14

JULY 15

JULY 16

World Youth Symphony Orchestra

“Collage”

Lake Street Dive

Old Crow Medicine Show

Norah Jones (SOLD OUT)

Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers

Nickel Creek and Andrew Bird

Jason Mraz (SOLD OUT)

JULY 20 Detroit Symphony Orchestra

JULY 23

JULY 24

JULY 26

JULY 30

AUG. 1-4

AUG. 5

AUG. 6

A Night of Comedy with Andy Beningo

SLASH – S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival

311: Unity Tour

Clint Black

High School Musical Production Wonderful Town

Jewel and Melissa Etheridge (SOLD OUT)

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

AUG. 7 Jake Shimabukuro

/ tickets

Photo by Susan Kettering

Traverse City’s Top Five Priorities

Homelessness, a new strategic plan, EMS services, FishPass, and staffing at the top of the city’s to-do list

By Anna Faller

As Traverse City continues to grow, local government officials and the citizens they serve feel the growing pains. Challenges (like the housing shortage), opportunities (like major infrastructure improvements), and pressures (like finite space in the city limits) have all reared their heads in the past few years.

Northern Express sat down with Mayor Amy Shamroe and City Manager Liz Vogel to talk about their top five priorities for the city.

Priority No. 1: Providing Support and Permanent Housing for the Homeless

The first of these priorities, Shamroe and Vogel agree, is to provide support for those experiencing chronic homelessness.

Though the end goal is to establish permanent living solutions for that population (which ranges from seven to a staggering 100 people), the city’s most urgent order of business is to address conditions at The Pines, the swath of forest near the Grand Traverse Commons that serves as a de facto camp for the chronically unhoused.

“We’re working on that larger goal of long-term housing units, but that takes time,” Vogel says. “In the interim, we still need to address other issues. It’s all part of the continuum of care.”

To do this, the City Commission has collaborated with local nonprofits—notably the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation (GTRCF) and Rotary Charities of Traverse City—to implement a few critical facilities. Of these, a pair of solar-powered benches that double as a charging hub are a highlight, as well as a pair of portable toilets with wash stations in The Pines.

Housing is also on the docket, headlined by a $360,000 contribution to East Bay Flats. Acquired by Goodwill Industries of Northwest Michigan last year, the complex, through collaboration with the city, is slated to provide permanent housing for 17 homeless individuals by August and another 10 by January 2025.

Next steps include additional units at both Annika Place and Ruth Park complexes, as well as several other construction projects coming up the pipeline. Still, Vogel stresses that the city can’t address this growing issue alone.

“It’s been a huge team effort between the city, philanthropies, and quick response team members working together. We’ve made some excellent strides, but I think we’ll be talking about this for some time as we invest and find solutions,” she says.

Priority No. 2: Strategic Planning

The pair have also set their sights on crafting a new strategic plan, which, per Shamroe, hasn’t been addressed since the 1990s. “It’s been a long time!” she says with a laugh.

As Vogel explains, the primary goal of the document, which she estimates will go public around September, will be to present a long-term vision that reflects the priorities and concerns of local residents.

“The process is going to share a story for Traverse City,” Vogel explains. “What do we value and what are the most pressing issues?”

The process will be bookended by a pair of research and consulting firms that will collaborate to manage strategic planning, budgeting, and governance training for city leadership.

Highlights of the updated plan will

include a new budget, which Vogel hopes will more accurately reflect the priorities of local stakeholders and residents, as well as a host of public outreach, including surveys, forums, and roundtable talks. “We want a lot of voices at the table,” she says.

Ideally, the plan will also help the manager’s office communicate function with the public— an effort, which according to Shamroe, isn’t always as effective as it could be.

“Our meetings are just as much to the public as they are to the board they’re being presented to,” she says. “We have to be better about putting information out there, and having clear pathways for how to do that will come out of strategic planning.”

Avenues might include website advancements, as well as an increased social media presence for bite-sized city updates and news, though both women stress that the team is still exploring methodologies.

“I’m very excited about how this will allow the city to streamline and modernize [its services] with the excellent staff we have,” Shamroe adds.

Priority No. 3: Creation of an EMS Department

Also top of mind for Vogel is the rollout of an EMS department, the creation of which voters overwhelmingly supported via Proposal 3 on the 2023 ballot.

The change would create an EMS crew through the Traverse City Fire Department, thereby making them the city’s primary emergency medical transport service (previously facilitated by MMR Grand Traverse).

Per Vogel, the overhaul is expected to take about two years, starting from when funding is secured, which, in this instance,

is coming from a bump in Traverse City’s operating millage. “The tick-tock of that [timeframe] starts this summer, which is exciting, and I think we’re already ahead of the game,” she says.

So far, the City Commission has authorized three new EMS positions— which, as Vogel points out, is just the backbone of the originally-requested nine— as well as the purchase of two ambulances. Next steps include hashing out facility plans, which could include a temporarily-shared space, as well as talks of structural updates to meet the needs this service would require.

“Slow and steady wins the race here,” says Vogel. “We’re working towards making concerted steps along the way, so this is something the community will continue to hear and see more of as we continue to make progress.”

Goal No. 4: Fish Pass and Infrastructure

Infrastructure updates, like the notable completion of FishPass, is another biggie.

FishPass is part of a restoration project to reestablish connectivity between the Boardman/Ottaway River and Lake Michigan. Once complete, this 20-year undertaking will replace the crumbling Union Street Dam with fresh infrastructure to allow passage of wildlife, while inhibiting invasive species. The project also involves a few above-ground elements, including the construction of a community outreach and education center and a revamped city park.

“It’s going to be incredibly impressive to have here, and is a big first step towards making a difference for our ecosystems,” Shamroe notes. It also ties into other citywide revitalization projects, like updating

Shamroe

Vogel

stormwater treatment and storage, whose $2 million price tag has historically been tough to surmount.

Other infrastructural goals for city leadership include restoration of the Boardman/ Ottaway River—which, says Shamroe, is also a plus in terms of celebrating local indigenous cultures—as well as removing parking from the lower Boardman and increasing water access.

Priority No. 5: Transparency and Staffing

Of course, achieving all this becomes much harder when residents don’t understand or trust the structures and people that operate their government offices.

“There has to be some willingness to engage in community conversations, and we also need people to trust that what’s going on behind the scenes is to help them,” Shamroe says.

To this point, she highlights that the city’s elected offices are all part-time and many wear other hats in the community.

“There’s a throughline in this community that is very positive, and where [as a civil servant] you do know people. I hope [those relationships] can help people see past negative governmental rhetoric, and instead see that their friends and neighbors are the people working for and with us,” she says.

The city is also on the precipice of a significant shift in office staffing when multiple employees retire. Vogel, for instance, is a fresh addition, having assumed her role in January. Police Chief Matt Richmond and City Engineer Anne Pagano are also both new, and Shamroe tells us the city has two more positions that have yet to be filled.

Though the team is well-set to manage

this wave of change, it’ll likely come with a learning curve. Per Shamroe, this brings a few points to light: one, that there are always more moving parts to city initiatives than the public sees; and two, that community support—and maybe some grace—is critical to the success of its management.

“We live in an 8.6-square-mile space of very different opinions on different things,” concludes Vogel. “As we tackle new problems, we have to be respectful of those opinions and listen with the intent to hear...”

Staying in the Know

How can you learn more about the work and topics tackled by the city government?

Both women agree that subscribing to “The Bay Brief”—that’s the City of Traverse City’s weekly e-newsletter—is a great place to start. “It’s got the highlights of what’s going on

as far as city projects and things that’ll be on the agenda,” says Shamroe. Live broadcasts of meetings are also a reliable resource.

For those interested in a particular issue, the City Commission agenda is also public, which notifies subscribers of city meetings and sessions, and highlights the topics they cover.

Those hoping to engage in city functions can also apply for board positions, though it’s important to note that some of these are only available to residents of Traverse City.

And if you’re not quite sure where to start?

Shamroe encourages those with questions to begin with the staff at the City Clerk’s Office. “From there, they can direct you to the right people,” she says. “Nobody’s ever mad that someone has a question for us. There are a lot of ways that people can contact us, and we hope that they do!”

A new EMS department is being created by the city.

A rendering of the FishPass site.

Beach Read

10 Beautiful Beaches… and How to Keep Them That Way

By Drew VanDrie

Close the laptop, stuff the tote with towels and SPF, and pack a cooler with something cold to drink—it’s time for a beach day.

From inland lake retreats to the coastal sands of the Great Lakes, Michigan has countless beaches worthy of exploration and even more deserving of conservation to keep them pristine for years to come. Local environmental nonprofits shared their top 10 beaches with us, including the aspects that make them idyllic, the issues they face, and tips for visitors to preserve these special places.

Benzie County

Lake Michigan makes up the entirety of Benzie County’s western edge, making it a beach lover’s paradise. We asked John Ransom, conservation specialist for the Benzie County Conservation District, for a few recs and need-to-knows for this region.

1. Elberta Beach

A beloved beach backed by a towering bluff, Elberta Beach is renowned for its expansive shoreline, offering seclusion for those willing to make tracks farther down the sands. Located just beyond the village for which it is named, the beach runs south from the pier, spanning for nearly a half-mile of unspoiled Lake Michigan frontage.

Ransom highlights the “stunning overlook before you head down the dune to the beach,” and that “the beach itself has lots of room to spread out.” Besides the panoramic views and broad beachfront, Elberta also faces a southwest direction, “making it one of the best body surfing beaches in the area,” according to Ransom.

Sensitive as it is scenic, Elberta beach faces some ecological challenges, mainly invasive species. Baby’s breath is of particular concern, as it can outcompete native flora. However, Ransom notes that “the Invasive Species Network has been hosting volunteer events to remove baby’s breath along the beach for years and have done a great job restoring the critical dune habitat at Elberta Beach.”

Readers should also be aware that updates to Elberta Beach are currently underway and the road down is closed to vehicular traffic. Per the Village of Elberta website, “Foot traffic is allowed at your own risk.”

2. Crystal Lake

Benzie is also home to several sizable inland lakes, including Crystal Lake. “Crystal Lake is the ninth largest lake in the state,” says Ransom, “and like its name, it’s crystal clear with water clarity often measured at over 40 feet!”

Boasting public access right in downtown Beulah, this inland gem is a great option for warmer water, lower wave exposure, and close proximity to amenities, making it an optimal family-friendly consideration.

“The beach is just steps away from a number of excellent lunch stops including East Shore Market, L’Chayim Delicatessen, and Five Shores Brewing,” Ransom adds.

But Ransom also warns of two potential (and common) issues for beachgoers— swimmer’s itch and E. coli. For the itch, Ransom recommends avoiding swimming during the peak heat of the day when there is an onshore breeze, (when the cercaria parasite which carries the infection are at their most abundant), and to towel off immediately after swimming. To combat the parasite, the Crystal Lake Watershed has worked to relocate the common merganser, the avian host for swimmer’s itch.

E. coli closures often follow a heavy rain, which washes waste from the streets and

stormwater system into Crystal Lake and nearby Cold Creek. The Village of Beulah is working on adding infiltration to the stormwater system to runoff, but for the time being it is recommended to pause a beach day after a deluge.

3. Point Betsie Lighthouse Beach

Located about 5 miles north of Frankfort, the Point Betsie Lighthouse and surrounding natural area make it a charming and unique choice for a waterside trip. Replete with dunes along the lakeshore, this ecologically diverse area provides “critical habitat for rare species, including Pitcher’s thistle” and a “potential nesting site for piping plovers” according to The Nature Conservancy’s website.

Guests and beachgoers are advised to remain off the dunes to prevent erosion and damage to fragile plants, and hikers should stick to the beach and shoreline.

Situated nearby is the iconic Point Betsie lighthouse, originally built in 1858. Open to tours mid-May through mid-October, the lighthouse is also available for overnight stay with a reservation for those wishing to live out their lighthouse keeper ambitions!

In addition to the natural splendor and storied structures, Ransom highlights that Point Betsie is a sought-after locale for local kite-boarders and is a great place to watch some action in the surf on a windy day. And one last reminder: “Make sure you stay for the sunset!”

Grand Traverse County

A trip to the beach doesn’t have to be an all day affair—Traverse City and the surrounding area is ideal for the beachgoer seeking a brief beach escape along with other activities in town. Providing some insight into these beaches is Sarah U’Ren, program director at the Watershed Center Grand Traverse Bay.

4. West End / Volleyball Beach

Mix in some sunny (and sandy) recreation to your beach day by making the short jaunt to the volleyball courts by West End Beach. Aptly referred to as Volleyball Beach, this section of West End is popular for its maintained beach volleyball courts, proximity to town, and frontage along West Bay.

While its nearness to downtown Traverse City precludes any expectation of solitude, the accessibility and established courts make for an upbeat, urban beach experience. On the flipside, the largest issue facing urban beachscapes like this can be E. coli outbreaks, often caused by runoff from storm drains entering the waterways typically after a heavy rain.

Fortunately, the Watershed Center monitors numerous beaches and coordinates with several health departments to keep beachgoers apprised of any closures or advisories.

“Usually the problems that we see at beaches that have high E. coli are typically the beaches that are located next to a storm drain,” says U’Ren. She notes that Volleyball Beach in particular usually tests low for E. coli but advises beachgoers to check out the Michigan BeachGuard System (egle.state. mi.us/beach) for any advisories or closures.

5. Traverse City State Park Beach

Much like West End, the Traverse City State Park Beach is not exactly a secluded oasis, but its amenities and location along the crystal waters of East Bay make it a worthy destination.

Complete with restrooms, a small play structure, and picnic area, the State Park Beach is optimal for a family-friendly afternoon. Across the road from the Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park and

Antrim Creek Natural Area

accessible by pedestrian bridge, the beach is an added benefit to visitors residing at the campground.

While also close to an urban setting, U’Ren adds that like Volleyball Beach, the State Park also typically tests low for E. coli exposure. Beachgoers can do their part to help minimize the potential for pathogen exposure; linked to bacteria contained within the intestines of warm blooded animals, E. coli is transmitted through fecal matter, so proper hygiene and disposal can keep beaches clean for everyone.

“If you bring your pet to the beach, make sure you pick up their waste,” says U'Ren. “Throw all your trash away, and take frequent restroom breaks [for young children], and don’t bury diapers on the beach.”

6. Sunset Beach

Easy to overlook even though it’s tucked just off of Grand View Parkway, Sunset Beach is a picturesque little pocket park with lovely frontage on West Bay.

Sunset is a terrific option for a quick dip after work, a good rinse after a strenuous bike ride, or a spontaneous pop-in to catch the sun sinking beneath the horizon as its namesake suggests. Boasting soft, sandy shores and a picnic area canopied by trees, Sunset is ideal for a packed lunch or a casual beachy afternoon without the extended drive to the big lake. Beachgoers can drop by the neighboring Delamar hotel for a cocktail at their lakeshore restaurant, Artisan.

U’Ren reminds sun seekers not to feed the ducks and seagulls they may encounter. “We encourage people to be good beachgoers,” she says. “Don’t feed the waterfowl at the beach. If you feed them at the beach, they’re going to go to the bathroom on the beach, and their waste has lots of bacteria and harmful pathogens.”

Leelanau County

7. Empire Beach

A crowning feature of the village of Empire, Empire Beach is a beautiful asset for residents and visitors alike. Located just west of downtown, the beach offers ample Lake Michigan frontage, along with a playground, designated fire rings, vault toilets, grilling equipment, and even a towering lighthouse.

When we asked U’Ren how beachgoers can help preserve locations like Empire Beach, her first points were to respect the land and waters, as well as to follow Leave No Trace rules. But there was one other piece of advice she wanted to share: “Support your local [watershed] entity when they need funding.” Dedicated to cleaning, monitoring, and maintaining area beaches, organizations like The Watershed Center rely on public support to keep their programs running.

Emmet County

Next, we head to the northern edge of the region for three more idyllic beach selections. Heather Huffsutler, executive director of the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council, shares helpful tips and lakeside recreation recommendations.

8. Sturgeon Bay

Located within the broader Wilderness State Park, Sturgeon Bay is scenic as it is expansive. Spanning nearly three miles of Lake Michigan frontage, the beach boasts a sandy coastline backed by an ecologically diverse (and picturesque) dunescape. Because the land belongs to the State Park, Huffsutler highlights that beachgoers can walk for long distances without concerns of encountering private property. This seclusion allows visitors to enjoy their visit in solitude and “find your own space, listen to birdsong,” says Huffsutler, adding that the “sunsets there are amazing!”

Of course, hikers and beach walkers should always stick to established trails and the beachfront. “Wilderness State Park protects dune and swale habitat,” says Huffsutler. “It’s a really unique ecosystem that we have here in northern Michigan,” and that habitat is home to endangered species like Pitcher’s thistle. “Especially when they’re (Pitcher’s thistle) young, they’re particularly sensitive to being stepped on,” so watch your step and don’t blaze your own trail up the dunes.

Antrim County

10. Antrim Creek Natural Area

Like Sturgeon Bay, the Fisherman’s Island shoreline is part of State Park, meaning miles of unspoiled and uninterrupted lakeshore access. Complete with a day-use area, Fisherman’s Island State Park also offers 80 rustic campsites interspersed throughout the entire park, with several tucked within the dunes along the lake.

It’s also a great place for rock picking. “The beach is a mixture of limestone, cobble shoreline,” says Huffsutler, “so rock hunters love this shore line for finding rocks and fossils.”

Because the beach is so close to Charlevoix and there is the potential for setting up a shoreside bivouac, Huffsutler reminds day visitors and overnighters alike to be mindful of their impact. “Here we have campsites right along the beach and Lake Michigan,” she says, noting that proximity can cause “erosion from traffic from those campsites and overall human impact.”

Huffsutler’s last beach of note is Antrim Creek Natural Area. Preserved from development in 1994, this 156-acre parcel is owned and managed by Antrim County and offers a diverse mix of hardwoods, wetlands, meadows, and of course, unrivaled beach access. Situated at the mouth of the creek where it empties into Lake Michigan, the beach is perfect for exploration, skipping stones, or cooling off after a brief hike through the property.

Much like several other mentioned beaches, invasive species (and its suppression) are front of mind at Antrim Creek. “The woodland of the natural area is challenged by invasive species,” says Huffsutler. “There’s buckthorn and Asian honeysuckle.”

Huffsutler explains that these invasive shrubs can affect the water quality, which in turn affects Lake Michigan. Hikers are encouraged to utilize boot brushes and clean gear before traveling to different locations to discourage the spread of invasive flora, insects, and more. So get out there, find your beach, and leave only footprints behind this summer!

9. Fisherman’s Island

Invasive baby's breath

Invasive spotted knapweed

Elberta Beach

PSYMON SPINERICH RUTH

accessible by pedestrian bridge, the beach is an added benefit to visitors residing at the campground.

METAL BUBBLE TRIOVALEBOL

6. Sunset Beach

Easy to overlook even though it’s tucked just off of Grand View Parkway, Sunset Beach is a picturesque little pocket park with lovely frontage on West Bay.

Leelanau County

7. Empire Beach

While there, explore some hometown staples like Joe’s Friendly Tavern or indulge in an ice cream cone from Tiffany’s Cafe. And for those looking to truly ride the wave, surfboard rentals and lessons are available with nearby Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak. When we asked U’Ren how beachgoers can help preserve locations like Empire Beach, her first points were to respect the land and waters, as well as to follow Leave No Trace rules. But there was one other piece of advice she wanted to share: “Support your local [watershed] entity when they need funding.” Dedicated to cleaning, monitoring, and maintaining area beaches, organizations like The Watershed Center rely on public support to keep their programs running.

Emmet County

8. Sturgeon Bay

9. Fisherman’s Island

10. Antrim Creek Natural Area

It’s also a great place for rock picking. “The beach is a mixture of limestone, cobble shoreline,” says Huffsutler, “so rock hunters love this shore line for finding rocks and fossils.”

Antrim County

Invasive baby's breath

Invasive spotted knapweed

Elberta Beach

LARSON

Erik Larson, bestselling author of The Devil in the White City, brings to life the pivotal five months between the election of Abraham Lincoln and the start of the Civil War—a simmering crisis that finally tore a deeply divided nation in two. He’ll talk with bestselling author Doug Stanton about his new book, The Demon of Unrest.

Event Underwriters: Wayne & Terry Lobdell • Literary Sponsor: Bay Books Entertainment Sponsors: Stephen & Raenette Palmer

THURSDAY, JULY 11 • 7PM

In-person at City Opera House + Livestreamed Doors open at 6PM with live

35 Spots to Grab an Ice Cream Cone

Get your hot-day sugar fix at these stands, shops, and creameries

By Brighid Driscoll

While it’s good all year round, ice cream in the summer (as the kids say) just hits different.

Yes, it’s a cold treat to quell hot weather, but even beyond temperature, ice cream seems to taste better after a busy day outside. Whether you’re a sucker for sundaes or a softie for soft serve, Northern Express knows of an ice cream place near you. (And keep in mind, this is by no means an exhaustive list—just the tip of the ice-cream-berg in the 13 counties we cover!)

Antrim County

1. DAIRY DELITE & GRILL: 11 N Williams St, Mancelona

2. ICE CREAM PEDDLERS: 141 River St, Elk Rapids

Charlevoix County

6. Charlevoix Dairy Grille: 1111 Bridge St, Charlevoix, MI

7. Sweet Tooth: 4108 M-75, Walloon Lake, MI

Benzie County

3. JOMO’S ICE CREAM: 11539 Honor Hwy, Honor

4. THE DAIRY MAID: 1028 Forest Ave, Frankfort

5. HILL TOP COFFEE & ICE CREAM: 7117 South St, Benzonia

It’s not heaven, it’s Hill Top! This local gem’s hype is real: Hill Top makes their own ice cream, serves freshly ground Higher Grounds coffee, and turns out fresh donuts daily. If they bottled the smell of the shop…that would sell out, too. Their ice cream is made from Michigan cows in small batches, with a 16 percent butter/fat content. The high fat content is what makes their ice cream particularly dreamy, with a rich flavor and smooth aftertaste that lingers more than its lower fat counterparts. They also make their own old fashioned soda. Pro tip: Try a root beer float and get the best of both worlds.

Cheboygan County

8. THE DEPOT ICE CREAM CAFE: 13062 Depot St, Wolverine

9. SCOOPS CHEBOYGAN: 106 S Main St, Cheboygan

It’s a rare place that has a menu as diverse as Scoops. Where else can you get tacos, lasagna, various casseroles, and way more alongside a variety of ice cream flavors? Scoops is a onestop shop for your tastebuds, and they’re not afraid to be different. They’re playful with new flavors like Black Licorice, Unicorn Magic Cake, or Dinosaur's Egg, but they also provide the classics that we all know and love. It’s the perfect place to go with the family, as there truly is something for everyone.

Crawford County

10. WIMPY’S: 6415 W M-72 Hwy, Grayling

11. DAIRY QUEEN: 305 S James St, Grayling

Emmet County

12. DAIRY ZONE PETOSKEY: 2264 M-119, Petoskey

13. YUMMIES: 220 E Main St, Harbor Springs

14. KILWINS: 316 Howard St, Petoskey (plus other locations) Kilwins has established a cherished presence in northern Michigan, renowned for its delectable ice cream and fudge. (Plus, they have locations in Petoskey, Charlevoix, Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Traverse City, Frankfort, Mackinaw City, and Cheboygan!) Their ice cream offers a rich and creamy texture loved by both locals and tourists. Popular flavors include Toasted Coconut, Salted Caramel, and Traverse City Cherry. Beyond ice cream, Kilwins is celebrated for its hand-paddled fudge and other sweets. The welcoming, old-fashioned ambiance of their shops, combined with the aroma of freshly made waffle cones, makes every visit a memorable experience.

15. SNICKERDOODLZ FROZEN

YOGURT: 2170 Anderson Rd, Petoskey

19. BUCHAN'S WEST BAY: 13000 S W Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City

Frozen yogurt gets a bad rap with kids who look at the sweet treat as an imposter of the ice cream they covet. But we’d be so bold to say that your littles won’t mind the difference at Snikerdoodlz…it’s that good. The combinations are limitless, with 12 yogurt flavors and over 50 toppings. The price of each creation is based on weight. Head in to cool down and unleash your taste buds creativity with a cup that’s all you.

Grand Traverse County

16. KETTLEWELL’S ICE CREAM: 8840 M-72, Williamsburg

17. LITTLE RED’S ICE CREAM: 5862 US-31 #8601, Grawn

18. BARDON’S WONDER FREEZE: 1100 E Front St, Traverse City

A nostalgic ice cream stand that has delighted locals and visitors for decades, Bardon’s is a favorite for classic soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, and milkshakes. The stand offers a charming, retro vibe located conveniently on East Front Street. This summer, the shop got a new paint job and a new fence, with rumors of a new sign coming soon (though it will be hard to replace the glowing antique topper that has graced the roof for decades!).

You’ll be able to find Buchan's homemade ice cream at several locations this summer— and to steal their line, it’s buchan good. There are two Traverse City locations—West Bay at the address above and Blueberry Hill located at the historic farm on Wilson Road—and both spots have a variety of flavors made from high-quality ingredients, like their famous lavender ice cream. West Bay offers a quick midday or post-dinner treat just beyond the confines of downtown TC, while Blueberry Hill provides a rustic setting where visitors can enjoy their ice cream while exploring the seasonal U-Pick of the farm’s blueberries, apples, and peaches. You’ll also be able to get Buchan’s at their new Scoops 22 food truck outside of Suttons Bay.

20. DAIRY LODGE: 405 N Division St, Traverse City

On any given summer evening, you’ll see groups of people surrounding Dairy Lodge. Like moths to a flame, you can’t keep folks away from this traditional ice cream stand. It’s a solid option for soft serve treats, and can be enjoyed at the picnic tables on the premises or after taking a stroll across the street to the beach. Their iconic sign is a woman dressed in a Santa outfit steering an ice cream cone towards the sky. Where she goes, we’ll never know, but we do know that she keeps the Lodge well stocked in ice cream delights.

21. MOOMERS HOMEMADE ICE CREAM: 7263 N Long Lake Rd, Traverse City

The smell of the farm only adds to the experience at Moomers.

Located on Traverse City’s west side, the rural setting is home to the cows who provide dairy for this nationally beloved ice cream. (The creamery regularly makes Best Ice Cream lists all over the country!) There are over 160 flavors to choose from, including their wellknown Cherries Moobilee and Cow Tracks. The farmto-cone experience, picturesque setting, and unique flavors make it a must-visit destination for ice cream enthusiasts.

Emmet County

12. DAIRY ZONE PETOSKEY: 2264 M-119, Petoskey

13. YUMMIES: 220 E Main St, Harbor Springs

14. KILWINS: 316 Howard St, Petoskey (plus other locations)

CHERRIES

Kilwins has established a cherished presence in northern Michigan, renowned for its delectable ice cream and fudge. (Plus, they have locations in Petoskey, Charlevoix, Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Traverse City, Frankfort, Mackinaw City, and Cheboygan!) Their ice cream offers a rich and creamy texture loved by both locals and tourists. Popular flavors include Toasted Coconut, Salted Caramel, and Traverse City Cherry. Beyond ice cream, Kilwins is celebrated for its hand-paddled fudge and other sweets. The welcoming, old-fashioned ambiance of their shops, combined with the aroma of freshly made waffle cones, makes every visit a memorable experience.

SUMMER IS HERE! HEFEWEIZEN IS ON!

15. SNICKERDOODLZ FROZEN YOGURT: 2170 Anderson Rd, Petoskey

(231) 252-3552

439 E Eighth St. Traverse City

19. BUCHAN'S WEST BAY: 13000 S W Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City

20. DAIRY LODGE: 405 N Division St, Traverse City

Grand Traverse County

16. KETTLEWELL’S ICE CREAM: 8840 M-72, Williamsburg

17. LITTLE RED’S ICE CREAM: 5862 US-31 #8601, Grawn

18. BARDON’S WONDER FREEZE: 1100 E Front St, Traverse City

21. MOOMERS HOMEMADE ICE CREAM: 7263 N Long Lake Rd, Traverse City

The smell of the farm only adds to the experience at Moomers. Located on Traverse City’s west side, the rural setting is home to the cows who provide dairy for this nationally beloved ice cream. (The creamery regularly makes Best Ice Cream lists all over the country!) There are over 160 flavors to choose from, including their wellknown Cherries Moobilee and Cow Tracks. The farmto-cone experience, picturesque setting, and unique flavors make it a must-visit destination for ice cream enthusiasts.

Kalkaska County

22. DE VOR DAIRY FARM & CREAMERY: 5436 Tyler Rd SE, Kalkaska

23. CONE CORRAL: 8145 Rapid City Rd NW, Rapid City

Leelanau County

24 BLUE MOON ICE CREAM SHOP: 9032 S Kasson St, Cedar

25. DAM CANDY STORE: 197 River St, Leland

Missaukee County

29. TASTY TREAT: 120 Main St, Lake City

30. BRINKS FAMILY CREAMERY: 3560 E Mulder Rd, McBain

Otsego County

31. MOONEY’S ICE CREAM PARLOR: 601 S Otsego Ave, Gaylord

32. DRIFT ICE CREAM SHOP: 125 N Otsego Ave, Gaylord

26. DALZELL DAIRY: 403 N St Joseph St, Suttons Bay New in Suttons Bay this summer, Dalzell Dairy is located in the old Buchan's Scoops 22 location. The Dalzell family has roots in Northport, and in a heartfelt tribute to the family’s 75year legacy as milkmen, Haley Fox (née Dalzell) and her husband Jake opened their own shop this spring. Dalzell Dairy offers a variety of ice cream from Moomers and Guernsey Farms Dairy, plus soft-serve, vegan options, milkshakes, and malts.

Manistee County

27. Arcadia Ice House: 17073 Northwood Hwy, Arcadia

28. Sweet Vibes: 4825 Main St, Onekama

33. ALPINE CHOCOLAT HAUS: 208 W Main St, Gaylord

We don’t all have the time or cash to head to Switzerland, so when looking to escape to the Alps, where better than Gaylord? You won’t find snow capped mountains here in the summer, but you will find Alpine Chocolat Haus. Delight yourself in the wide variety of the house-made chocolate confections that use only the finest, real butter. Favorites like chocolate covered apples and strawberries line the shelves, as well as more elusive treats like chocolate dipped potato chips. Ashby’s ice cream is available, and guests appreciate that there are some harder to find flavors being scooped at Alpine.

Wexford County

34. CONE LICKERS: 114 M-55, Cadillac

PIZZARAMA: 385 W Wexford Ave #9534, Buckley

Three Natural Beauty Brands Up North

Get to know the products at Bloom Wildcraft, Bee Joyful, and Little Beauty Kitchen

By Emily Batdorf

The explosion of beauty and skincare products appearing in stores, ads, and all over social media can make deciding what to buy feel like a full-time job. And with all the new products constantly coming onto the market, it can be overwhelming to choose items that are safe and natural, but effective too.

Lucky for us, three NoMi beauty brands—Bloom Wildcraft, Bee Joyful, and Little Beauty Kitchen—are making our choices a little easier, whether you’re looking for a new go-to cleanser for these long, hot days or you want to pick up a local gift for summer visitors. Not only do these businesses create customer-approved, effective beauty formulas, but they also source many of their natural ingredients right here in northern Michigan.

BLOOM WILDCRAFT

Take a look out your window, and what do you notice? You may see grasses, flowers, and shrubs, but Madelyn Walters of Bloom Wildcraft sees ideal ingredients for her product line.

After meeting her partner, who teaches foraging in the northern Michigan area, Walters quickly learned about wild edible plants. It wasn’t long after that she was experimenting with other uses for her woodland findings. “We would forage for ourselves and our family. And then I kind of started getting curious about not only what we could eat, but what we could use as medicine.”

Foraging—the art and science of finding, identifying, and harvesting wild plants— provides Walters with many of her key ingredients, like elderflower, spearmint, peppermint, and chaga.

Bloom Wildcraft began in 2018 with two herbal tea flavors. Later, with a daughter on the way, Walters started playing around with herbs and other local ingredients to make diaper cream, belly balm, and more. This experimentation quickly turned into her initial line of skincare.

Bloom Wildcraft now sells salves, body butter, facial and massage oils, serums, and more. And while selling these products face-to-face at local farmers markets (in addition to on her online store) brings Walters joy, she is grateful that her business gives her an excuse to get outside in beautiful places.

“I love that I’m able to use local ingredients. I love that it gets me outside foraging for those local ingredients.”

Walters also appreciates her customers and the interest they have in what she does. “They just have this curiosity about it,” she says. “I’m really glad I can educate people in this area because so many of the herbs I use are common… I like that I can help people to identify those [herbs] and learn more.”

Must-have recommendations: Golden Hour Bronzing Shimmer Oil, Whipped Tallow Body Butter, Unwind Herb Infused Massage Oil Where to shop: Online at bloomwildcraft.com, Kingsley Farmers Market, and East Bay Corners Farmers Market

BEE JOYFUL

Area locals may recognize Bee Joyful products from the shelves of Oryana or a booth at the Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market, but the business’s beginnings actually took root downstate.

“It started with me as a teenager,” says Bethany Bower, who runs Bee Joyful with husband Austin. “My dad is a beekeeper in southern Michigan, and I had lots of fun experimenting with all the beeswax and honey.” When she came up with a crowdpleasing lip balm and soap, Bethany knew she was on to something special.

After marrying Austin—who’s always been a fan of her beeswax creations— Bethany continued creating and selling her products. Now, with a family of her own, much of Bethany’s inspiration comes from her role as mother: “My family’s my guinea pigs,” she jokes.

Bee Joyful’s product line now includes deodorants, body balms, laundry soap, and face cream in addition to Bethany’s initial soaps and lip balms. Everything is created with sensitive skin in mind and doesn’t include any chemicals or preservatives. Ingredients are also local when possible: In addition to sourcing beeswax and honey from area beekeepers, Austin and Bethany like to use local lavender, lemon balm, mint, and other herbs.

What started as an experiment has grown into a passion for Bethany: “I almost feel like a mad scientist sometimes…. It’s kind of fun, just the creativity of it, and then, when something works, it’s like ‘Wow, this is so cool!’”

Must-have recommendations: Bee Well Herbal Salve, plus any of the beeswax deodorants

Where to shop: Online at beejoyful.com, Oryana, Edson Farms Natural Foods, Oleson’s, Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market on Saturdays, Glen Arbor Farmers Market on Tuesdays, and Northport Farmers Market on Fridays. And while it’s not open yet, keep your eye out for Bee Joyful’s new retail storefront opening later this summer on M-72 two miles west of downtown Traverse City.

LITTLE BEAUTY KITCHEN

In 2014, Kelly Kehl decided to go to school for herbal medicine—but she didn’t stop there. In subsequent years, she trained to become a certified health coach, licensed esthetician, and skincare coach—not to mention she’s the owner of Little Beauty Kitchen, her Northport-based skincare business. Kehl spends her days educating, inspiring, and offering healing herbal products to customers wanting to improve the health and feel of their skin.

Kehl makes natural herbal products and remedies, which she uses when performing holistic facials or other skincare services. “I formulate and create herbal products using whole plants,” she explains. “The products that I make are mostly topical remedies, and they range from everyday face oils to face toners, masks, and exfoliants. I even do tea blends.”

If you’re suffering from headaches, eczema, psoriasis, or any number of other maladies, Kehl’s products and services are worth checking out. “They’re really safe and gentle for all,” she says.

Like many other local makers, Kehl takes advantage of her surroundings in northern Michigan, growing and gathering ingredients when possible with the help of “other local friends, gardeners, and farmers.” When it comes to materials she can’t grow or gather, Kelly outsources her ingredients—and takes the process very seriously: “I make sure they come from a sustainable, organic, ethical place.”

Today, Kehl has just as much passion for her business as she did when it began a decade ago. Specifically, she loves making the beauty industry—which isn’t always welcoming—less overwhelming for her clients and customers.

“My business revolves around being a guide for people through the beauty industry, which is incredibly intimidating and maybe daunting to some. I like being that mentor that makes it more simplified and comforting … by offering these holistic and gentle facial services—but also skincare products that can be used throughout the whole household, no matter what age or stage of life you’re in.”

Must-have product recommendations: Balance Cleansing Oil, Reset Face and Décolleté Mist, Sun Everyday Face Oil

Where to shop: Online at littlebeautykitchen.com, Little Beauty Kitchen storefront inside Barb’s Bakery at 112 Mill Street in Northport, Farm Club, and The Refillery

“Jonesin” Crosswords

ACROSS

"That Sounds Rough" --y'know,

1. Lingerie buy, for short

5. MDX and RDX maker

10. Chest muscles, briefly

14. ___ Mills (bygone photography business)

15. Kidney-related

16. "Magnum P.I." setting

17. A "Sesame Street" monster's butt?

19. Cherry part

20. "... ___ the fields we go"

21. "Bill ___ Saves the World"

22. Samplers of sorts

24. Bagel cheese

26. Writer Fleming

27. U.K. city with a lot of bridge discards?

34. Actress Lively

37. Went too far, like a sentence

38. Teensy

39. Puerto Rican pop star Fonsi

40. He preceded Liz and Rishi

41. "Me as well"

42. Tool for rowing

43. Eldest Stark daughter on "Game of Thrones"

44. Watch covertly

45. Prescription taken while in restraints?

48. "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" announcer Wilson

49. In a bawdy way

53. With 60-Across, possibility with shoddy "Survivor" merchandise?

57. "Wahoo!" in Oaxaca

58. Singer Corinne Bailey ___

59. Not achromatic

60. See 53-Across

63. Ski resort near Park City

64. Actor Michael, subject of dueling impersonations in "The Trip"

65. Tennis tournament type

66. Dishevel, as hair

67. Not acquired, in some poems

68. "I, Claudius" emperor

DOWN

1. Hot mugful

2. Skin lotion ingredient sources

3. Language where "How's it going?" is "Kei te pehea koe?"

4. Do a comic book job

5. Words before "kidding" or "serious"

6. Forfeit

7. Burmese leader of the 1950s

8. Whitewater ride

9. ___ Romeo (Italian car)

10. Mail-related

11. Corroded

12. "Believe" Grammy winner

13. Added amounts

18. Fireplace nook

23. Roadside marker

25. Puts in the form of a question

28. Fern leaf

29. Iran's official language

30. Early supercomputer

31. Votes of opposition

32. Fish in a Pixar pic

33. Cookbook author Paula

34. Allied nations

35. Pacific island party

36. Groups of planes, collectively

40. Mid-2010s term of endearment

41. Blow out, as a volcano

43. Broadcast TV censor's concern, once

44. Villainous look

46. Acting family of three generations

47. "Yeah, right!"

50. Arrange loosely

51. Bronny James, as of a recent draft pick

52. Like some two-choice questions

53. "Careless Whisper" duo

54. "Shoresy" streamer, stateside

55. Tuskegee or Spelman, for short

56. Actor Morton who played King George in "Hamilton" (and whose son played "Young Sheldon")

57. "That's ___ concern to you!"

61. Newton's tree?

62. Long time

WEDNESDAYS:

THURSDAYS:

Interlochen’s Crown Jewel

How

northern Michigan’s preeminent arts school helped forge a pop star

By Craig Manning

In the spring of 1992, an Alaskan teenager named Juel Kilcher walked across the stage at Kresge Auditorium and graduated from Interlochen Arts Academy. Four years later, she had a top-five album on the Billboard 200. On Monday, August 5, Kilcher—now known better by her mononymous stage name, Jewel—will take the stage at Kresge once more, this time for a sold-out, coheadlining show with Melissa Etheridge.

When you put it that way, Jewel’s rise to fame and success seems like it must have been easy. In the time that many people take to get a college degree, she morphed from high-schooler to pop star, with a massive hit album, an opening slot on a Bob Dylan tour, and a few songs up her sleeve that you have almost certainly heard. In the telling of her own story, though, Kilcher is insistent that while some of it was luck, none of it was easy.

The Road to Interlochen

“I grew up in Alaska, and I moved out when I was 15,” Kilcher tells Northern Express “To support myself and pay rent, I got a couple jobs, one of which was cleaning buildings.”

One of those buildings happened to house a dance studio, and that dance studio happened to be hosting a two-week workshop taught by a renowned instructor from out-of-state. “I asked him, if I cleaned his studio for free, would he let me attend his two-week workshop, which he did.”

The bargain proved a fateful one. While Kilcher didn’t impress the teacher with her graceful steps—“I was a terrible dancer,” she says, laughing—she did impress with her voice.

“He found that I was a good singer, and he told me that he was a teacher at a school called Interlochen Arts Academy, and he

felt like I should apply for a scholarship,” she says. “He helped me get the paperwork done, and I got a $5,000 scholarship.”

Even with a scholarship, Kilcher needed to come up with another $10,000 to cover the actual tuition cost at Interlochen, a task she says “seemed impossible” to her at the time. But a group of six local women caught wind of her story and took her under their wing, helping her schedule a fundraiser and go around to businesses seeking donation items that she could auction off.

It worked: While Kilcher had no original songs yet—“It was all Cole Porter covers,” she says of her fundraiser setlist—her hometown still came out to support her, and she ended up raising enough money to book her spot at Interlochen.

She still didn’t have enough money for the full trip from Homer, Alaska, to Interlochen, Michigan. So, rather than flying to Traverse City, she flew to Detroit and then hitchhiked the 270 miles north. When she finally arrived at her new boarding school to begin her junior year of high school, she was greeted by an immediate culture shock.

“I remember walking onto campus, and all the other kids were staring and pointing at me,” she says. “I got to my dorm building and the woman there tells me, ‘You have to go to the dean’s office.’ So I did, and he tells me, ‘Give me the knife.’ Because I had a really large skinning knife on my belt—which everybody does in Alaska! And I’d wanted to keep it with me, especially because I knew I’d be hitchhiking.”

An Arts Omnivore

Another element of culture shock: Kilcher hadn’t realized her tuition payment wouldn’t cover things like food and books. With no cash in her pocket, she asked the dean to point her toward opportunities to make money on campus.

“One of the things I did—and it didn’t pay a ton of money—was I started modeling for the sculpture class,” she says. “And I was so enamored with the classes that I started asking the teacher all these questions from the podium. After a few classes, the instructor was like, ‘You need to get off the podium and you need to take sculpture.’”

Kilcher had come to Interlochen as a classical voice major, but she was so fascinated by all the opportunities around her—and so certain she wouldn’t be able to afford a second year at the expensive fine arts boarding school—that she didn’t just take sculpture, but became the first double-major/ double-minor student in Interlochen history.

“I took on a double major in voice and visual art, and then I ended up minoring in dance and acting,” she says. “The dean called me to his office again and he said, ‘You are doing too much. You cannot do all of this.’ But I told him: ‘This might be my only chance to have this type of education. Please don’t make me stop.’”

The dean relented, though it turned out Kilcher needn’t have worried about her Interlochen fairytale coming to an end after a single year. She ultimately received a full scholarship to come back as a senior.

A Star Is Born

Even with scholarships, Kilcher’s relative poverty meant she had a decidedly different high school experience than her classmates. For instance, when Kilcher’s friends would fly home for school breaks, she’d hatch alternate plans for those weeks when she wasn’t allowed to stay on campus but couldn’t afford to go home.

“We had a two-week spring break, and I decided that I would spend it hitchhiking across the country and going to Mexico,” Kilcher says. Her strategy? Raise money for

Greyhound and Amtrak tickets by busking on city streets and scraping together enough tips to make it to the next city. Armed with an acoustic guitar and the four chords a classmate had taught her how to play, she embarked upon her odyssey.

“It was still too hard for me to learn other people’s songs at that point,” she says. “But since I’d been writing poetry my whole life, and singing my whole life—and since I’d grown up bar singing with my dad, and he’d taught me how to improvise so we could make up lyrics about people who weren’t listening to us—I figured I could just improvise lyrics about people as they walked by on the street. By doing that, I was able to earn my way across the country. And by the time I came back to Interlochen at the end of two weeks, I had my first original song.”

That song was “Who Will Save Your Soul,” the opening track and first single from Pieces of You, the debut album Kilcher released in February 1995 under the stage name Jewel. That album would eventually go on to sell more than 12 million copies in the United States alone, making Jewel a household name. Before she could get to that point, though, she had to graduate high school—and go through perhaps the hardest part of her entire story.

The Crucible

“After graduation, I went to Boulder to live with a roommate that I had met Interlochen, and after that, I went to San Diego, where my mom was sick,” Kilcher says. “For years, I didn’t have any jobs related to music. I was just working as a hostess at a restaurant and then answering phones at a computer warehouse. One of my bosses propositioned me, and when I wouldn’t have sex with him, he refused to give me my paycheck. Then I started living in my car

because I couldn’t pay my rent, and I became homeless for a year.”

Then, her challenges doubled. “I had really bad panic attacks and agoraphobia. My car that I was living in got stolen. I almost died of a kidney infection in an emergency room parking lot, because they wouldn’t see me because I didn’t have insurance. Eventually, I realized I was going to die if I didn’t change my life.”

Kilcher did two things to make that change. The first was to develop behavioral health tools that she says helped her navigate her panic attacks and get back to a more positive, empowered mindset. The second was to start making music again.

“I found a coffee shop in San Diego that was going out of business, and I said, ‘Can you keep your doors open for one month and give me a shot? And if I bring people in, I want to keep the door money,’” Kilcher says. “The owner agreed, and I started singing every Thursday night, doing these five-hour shows of original material. And four people became 12, became 20, became 50. And then all of a sudden, record label folks were coming in.”

The buzz around Jewel and her confessional singer-songwriter songs was such that the still-homeless teenager ended up the subject of a major label bidding war. One offer even included a million-dollar signing bonus—the kind of money that could have changed Kilcher’s life overnight.

She turned it down.

“I went to the library and read a book about the music business, and it taught me how recording contracts are structured,” Kilcher says. “I learned that this ‘bonus’ was not just a gift; it was an advance that I would have to recoup in album sales. I did the math and realized how many albums I would have to sell to pay that back, and it was astronomical. So, I turned down the bonus, and instead I took the biggest backend any artist had been awarded up to that point, and I bought my art some freedom to fail. And that ended up being a good choice, because my album did fail for quite a while.”

Pieces of You came out on Atlantic Records in 1995 and failed to chart or generate much attention at all for its first year. But a tour stint opening for Bob Dylan and some slow-burn radio attention for “Who Will Save Your Soul” eventually gave the album a second life.

A 1997 re-release turned Pieces of You into one of the preeminent blockbuster albums of the 1990s, despite its bare, mostly unproduced voice-and-acoustic-guitar arrangements. “Who Will Save Your Soul”

peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100; the follow-up single, “You Were Meant for Me,” made it all the way to No. 2.

Homecoming

Kilcher will bring those songs and a career’s worth of others to the stage at Kresge on August 5, marking only her second return to Interlochen since she graduated and her first in almost 20 years. She’s excited to come back to a place that ignited so much of her artistic passion—and that once felt like home.

“I have fond memories of sneaking into Kresge at dusk, and sitting cross-legged on the stage, just singing and refining ‘Who Will Save Your Soul,’” she says.

“Interlochen is just such a special place. I’ll never forget how the dean kept finding ways to make things work for me, or how the teachers just helped me learn to level up there. Even though I didn’t have much of a dream at the time that I could do this professionally, just being around the kids that were so dedicated, it was all so inspiring. I’m really looking forward to coming back.”

Six Defining Songs

At this point, Jewel’s career spans 13 albums and nearly 30 years. Where should you start if you only know the singer-songwriter’s two most famous songs? Here are six tracks to get you started.

“Foolish Games,” from Pieces of You (1995)

The third hit from Jewel’s debut album, “Foolish Games” has a big, dramatic chorus that gets even extra oomph in a poppier version re-recorded for the soundtrack of 1997’s Batman & Robin.

“Standing Still,” from This Way (2001)

Jewel made a pivot to country music on the 2008 album Perfectly Clear, but she had already hinted at that direction on this big, yearning hit single from 2001. Jewel wrote the song about her experience in the music business, and about how the touring lifestyle “can really cause your emotional life to stand still.”

“2 Become 1,” from 0304 (2003)

The purest pop album in the Jewel discography is 0304, which spawned the mall-pop smash “Intuition.” Where that song was a clear departure from Jewel’s folk roots, “2 Become 1” pulls off more of a balancing act, dressing up Jewel’s trademark scenesetting songwriting with shimmering pop production.

“Till It Feels Like Cheating,” from Perfectly Clear (2008)

Speaking of the country pivot, this track shows off just how well-suited Jewel’s voice is to Nashville twang. She penned the song with legendary country songwriter Liz Rose, a master best known for her work on Taylor Swift songs like “Tim McGraw,” “You Belong with Me,” and “All Too Well.”

“Love Used to Be,” from Picking Up the Pieces (2015)

Picking Up the Pieces was hailed upon its release for returning Jewel to the sparse acoustic folk sound of her debut, with the title even gesturing back to Pieces of You. Sure enough, “Love Used to Be,” the album’s meditative opening track, puts the spotlight back on the things that made Jewel famous in the first place: the voice and the poetry.

“No More Tears,” from Freewheelin’ Woman (2022)

Jewel’s newest album, Freewheelin’ Woman, was largely inspired by the music recorded at Alabama’s legendary Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where artists like Aretha Franklin, the Staple Singers, and Joe Cocker made records famous for their swampy, soulful R&B sound. That sound is all over “No More Tears,” a rousing gospel-tinged duet with Darius Rucker — another recent Kresge Auditorium headliner!

Jewel spent her junior and senior years of high school at Interlochen, where some of the early songs of her first album were written.

Jewel's Interlochen yearbook photo from 1991.

Joshua Leonard and Jewel, theater arts students at Interlochen, from the 1991 yearbook.

10 Souvenir Shop Finds

Skip the T-shirt and opt for a memorable memento at Nifty Things

By Hannah Cumler

When summer arrives in northern Michigan, you can count on a few things: the sun and beach, road construction, and tourists. Welcoming visitors is part of our Up North identity, and really, it’s a vital part of our economy. Perhaps the most dependent are our souvenir shops that line downtowns and stock their shelves for the post-Memorial Day rush.

One such shop that has stood the test of time is Nifty Things, with stores in Traverse City, Elk Rapids, and Alden. The brand has found success among local downtowns offering an eclectic mix of goods for the summer traveler and souvenirs for the loved ones back home.

Curating a store like Nifty Things is no small feat. The hunt to find products for every type of traveler is

1. Foterra Jewelry

Forever remember your favorite northern Michigan views with a special souvenir that turns your photographs into jewelry. Foterra Jewelry has been featured in Nifty Things for over a year, but Hundley says this is the first year they’ve featured local photos in the jewelry. From a Lake Michigan sunset to a stunning view of Grand Traverse Bay, there are several different pictures featured on necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more. Foterra Jewelry is based out of Washington and ranges in price based on jewelry selection.

2. Mend on the Move Jewelry

As the jewelry buyer, Hundley had a few unique lines to feature, including Mend on the Move jewelry. “It has a huge backstory and that is why I bought into it,” she tells us.

Hundley says the jewelry line, based out of Detroit, is made by abuse survivors. According to the company’s website, each piece is hand-crafted out of old auto parts and car seat leather, not only supporting women on their journey to get on their feet, but also helping

a job that can be both challenging and rewarding. But after 18 years on the job, Nifty Things general manager and buyer, Kathy Trilla, knows a thing or two about what tourists want.

“We always say, if you can’t find something here, you need to find new friends and family,” Trilla jokes.

Nifty Things started in 2006 in Alden by Doug and Martee Hickman, who moved North from downstate. After the success of their first store, Trilla says, “We started slowly expanding to Elk Rapids, and then here [Traverse City], and then we opened in Suttons Bay, which we closed during the pandemic.”

Working alongside Trilla is Victoria Hundley, a senior manager and jewelry buyer. “People love the store,” Hundley says. “Some customers come in the store and say, ‘This is my first stop’ when they come up here, or ‘You’re

combat auto waste that would normally end up in a landfill.

“They [Mend on the Move] are allowing us to be exclusive here—there’s one other place in Traverse, in The Commons, that also has a couple of pieces,” says Hundley. “This is going to be exclusive to downtown.”

3. Cellar Door Bath Co. Bar Soap

Another Michigan business to keep your eye on this summer is Cellar Door Bath Co. out of Canton, Michigan. The company produces several different bath products including bar soap. The soap is plant-based, crueltyfree, and doesn’t have synthetic fragrances. And best of all, the company’s Michigan soap collection has versions inspired by the best of northern Michigan summers: Beach Glass, Leelanau Sunset, Mackinac Island Lilac, Michigan Dunes, and others. Each bar retails for $8.99.

4. Devonian Coast

If you’d like to support other Michigan makers, consider a Devonian Coast candle, made nearby in Yuba. Hundley explains all the candles are poured with gel and are quite the sight once lit. “They look like little sunsets or sunrises when you light them because they’re clear. The light goes all the way through.” Hundley says the smaller candle lasts up to 10 hours, while

the larger ones last up to 60 hours. Nifty Things offers several candle options and sizes, prices range from $15.99 - $34.99.

5. DunMor Metal Art

For another local artist, check out DunMor Metal out of Waterford Township, Michigan. You’ll find unique metal offerings like Great Lakes’ wall art and compasses, ornaments, and more. According to their website, all DunMor items are handmade from raw materials.

6.

Kedzie Bags

For travelers on the go, Hundley says the Kedzie bag is a must-have. “We brought these in over two years ago now,” she says. “The straps are all interchangeable, and [with] a lot of them, you have the ability to go with a lot of options. You can go crossbody; you can go backpack.” Hundley adds that the bags are very popular and offer a way for customers to mix and match to choose their own bag/strap combination. The Kedzie bags start at $19.99.

Speaking of bags, straps, and travel storage, Hundley says the Save the Girls Clip & Go Straps

always on our list when we come Up North.’”

As for this year, Trilla suspects the summer might be a little different than years past. “This year it’s an interesting year with construction. We’ve seen a little bit of a slowdown with that, and inflation, and it’s an election year,” she explains. “Election years are always questionable; people hold on to their money to see what’s going to happen.”

For those who are still in the market for a northern Michigan keepsake, we’ve asked Nifty Things to share some of their favorite picks for souvenir shopping. But don’t expect your typical graphic tee or kitschy magnet— this roundup includes unique, out-of-the-box, and locally made souvenirs that will blow your usual “wish you were here” coffee mug out of the water.

are essential…and they also contribute to a great cause.

“Back in the day when we first started getting cell phones, a lot of women took their phone in their bra,” says Hundley, “For the owner of this company [Save the Girls], it caused her breast cancer. So she created this.”

The strap is meant to attach to just your phone and also has a little wallet on it. According to the Save the Girls website, 10 percent of all profits go to breast cancer research. Clip & Go Straps retail at $29.99.

8. Poor Boy’s Home Decor Map out your next northern Michigan escape with this Great Lakes artwork. Crafted from wood, the three-panel map is one of Poor Boy’s Decor’s most popular offerings. Poor Boy’s is based out of Saginaw but sells its artwork across the state.

“This artwork is really cool,” says Hundley, “We have three panels here in both sizes of Grand Traverse Bay. We also have three panels of Michigan…we really do well with those.”

9. Dune Jewelry

This jewelry line, started by Holly Daniels-Christensen in Massachusetts, incorporates sand and other elements from your favorite northern Michigan spots

into beautiful jewelry. Nifty Things offers Dune Jewelry with sand from Sleeping Bear Dunes, Mackinac Island, and other local escapes. However, Hundley says the store can do custom pieces, as well.

“She [Daniels-Christensen] has over 5,000 different sands and elements in her bank that you can pull from if you don’t have sand yourself, or you can bring in sand yourself,” Hundley says.

For something more sentimental, Hundley tells us, “They will also do ashes, I’ve done a couple clients with ashes, and a lot of times we’ll add maybe a power stone with it,” she explains. “Or flower petals, or something representative of them.”

10. Custom Engraving

For customers who are truly looking for something oneof-a-kind, Nifty Things offers customized engraving at its Elk Rapids store.

“We have an engraver in Elk Rapids, so you can make them yourself” on the shop’s own designs, says Hundley. Items available for engraving include signs, coasters, mugs, cutting boards, glassware, etc. Prices vary depending on the item and design.

For more information on Nifty Things, visit their website at niftythingsonline.com or stop in at one of their retail locations.

Save The Girls Clip & Go Straps

saturday

NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL: TC. Today includes the Meijer Festival of Races, Pickleball Tournament, Ultimate Air Dogs, DTE Energy Foundation Cherry Royale Parade, The Accidentals & Joshua Davis, Festival Finale Fireworks & much more. cherryfestival. org/events

GREATEST FOURTH IN THE NORTH: Lake City. Today includes a Pancake Breakfast, Kids Parade, Volleyball Tournament, Foam Party, A2 Magic Show, Pie Eating Contest, Animal Magic, live music with Delilah DeWylde & Seth Bernard, fireworks & much more. missaukeechamber.com/ wp-content/uploads/G4itN-2024-Scheduleof-Events.pdf

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MANISTEE NATIONAL FOREST FESTIVAL: Today includes the Manistee Firecracker 5K Run/Walk & 1K Fun Run, Manistee Arts & Crafts Show, The Little Big Shots Talent Show, 28th Annual Little River Band Powwow, Summer Sun Sets w/ i.am. james., & much more. manisteeforestfestival.com/manistee-national-forest-festivalevent-schedule-manistee-michigan

CADILLAC FREEDOM FESTIVAL 5K: 8:30am, Commons - City Park, Cadillac. This fun 5K follows Lake St. & benefits the Victim Services Unit. $15 for under 17 & $25 for all others. cadillacfreedomfestival. com/5KRace

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PETOSKEY ANTIQUES SHOW: 9am5pm, Emmet County Fairgrounds, Petoskey. Featuring 120 dealers from nine states. facebook.com/petoskeyantiguesshow

LOON DAYS: 10am-5pm, Village Green Park, Walloon Lake.

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MADE IN CHEBOYGAN CRAFT SHOW: 10am-6pm, Washington Park, downtown Cheboygan. Featuring more than 30 crafters & artists. facebook.com/madeincheboygan

OPEN STUDIO, PETOSKEY: 10am-1pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Visual Arts Room, Petoskey. Drop-in free arts & crafts for the whole family. New projects are offered each week. crookedtree.org/event/ ctac-petoskey/open-studio-july-6 ----------------------

SPANISH LANGUAGE CONVERSATION MEET-UP: 10:30am, Traverse Area District Library, Thirlby Room, TC. Join every first Saturday to practice your Spanish language skills in a casual conversation group. All levels are welcome. Free. tadl. org/event/spanish-language-conversationmeet-11687 ----------------------

GENESEE VALLEY CONCERT BAND: 7-9pm, Gaylord Pavilion, Gaylord. Featuring a wide variety of music including patriotic numbers to celebrate the 4th of July. ----------------------

“THE COMEDY OF ERRORS,” INTERLOCHEN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: 8pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Upton-Morley Pavilion. Celebrate William Shakespeare’s imagination with a contemporary twist. Reserve your seat for a classic production with slapstick comedy, clever puns, & witty wordplay. $41. interlochen. org/events/comedy-errors-interlochenshakespeare-festival-2024-06-28

JO DEE MESSINA: 8pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. Kicking off her career with “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” Jo Dee Messina then posted nine No. 1 hits & sixteen Top 40 songs & was honored by the ACM Awards, CMA Awards,

& GRAMMY Awards. She became the first female in country music history to celebrate three consecutive multi-week, chart-topping songs. Tickets starting at $87. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/jo-dee-messina ----------------------

MIDWEST COMEDY CLUB: 8pm, Burnt Marshmallow Brewing & Rudbeckia Winery, Petoskey. Stand-up + music + improv. Special guests include Austin Robertson & Becky Thompson. Robertson is the cofounder of Midwest Comedy Tour, a writer for Blaze TV’s “Normal World,” & 2018’s 2nd place finalist in the “Funniest Person in Ohio” competition. Thompson, co-founder of Midwest Comedy Tour, was a finalist in the Funniest Person in Ohio Competition & has been published in The Belladonna, a satirical comedy journal. $10. localwineevents.com/view/event/midwest-comedy-tour---live-on-the-bmb-stage/874032

MUSIC IN MACKINAW SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Mackinaw City. Featuring Live Fire126th Army Band. ----------------------

REVISITING CREEDENCE: 8pm, Bay View, John Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. Dan McGuinness & Kurt Griffey toured the world performing with original Creedence Clearwater Revival members & Rock & Roll Hall of Famers in Creedence Clearwater Revisited for ten years. Now they’ve been passed the torch continuing & celebrate CCR’s musical legacy, live in concert as Revisiting Creedence. $35-$65. bayviewassociation. org/pop-concerts

sunday

BLUEBERRY PANCAKE BREAKFAST: 8am-noon, Rainbow of Hope Farm, Kingsley. Donation: $10 adults, $7 children; free for preschool age. rainbowofhopefarm.weebly.com

MANISTEE NATIONAL FOREST FESTIVAL: Today includes MAPS Traditional Pancake Breakfast, Manistee Arts & Crafts Show, Scottville Clown Band Concert, Manistee Saints Baseball, 28th Annual Little River Band Powwow, & much more. manisteeforestfestival.com/manistee-nationalforest-festival-event-schedule-manisteemichigan

LOON DAYS: (See Sat., June 6)

PETOSKEY ANTIQUES SHOW: 10am4pm, Emmet County Fairgrounds, Petoskey. Featuring 120 dealers from nine states. facebook.com/petoskeyantiguesshow ----------------------

MADE IN CHEBOYGAN CRAFT SHOW: 11am-5pm, Washington Park, downtown Cheboygan. Featuring more than 30 crafters & artists. facebook.com/madeincheboygan

BOOKS TO MOVIES: 1pm, Traverse Area District Library, Thirlby Room, TC. Watch a movie based on a book or real life. Once in a while one may be shown just for the fun of it that is not based on anything but pure enjoyment. First come, first served - up to 20 adults. The movie this month is “Arthur The King.” Free. tadl.org/event/books-movies-8740

FUN-FILLED GRAND PRIX AT TRAVERSE CITY HORSE SHOWS: 2pm, Flintfields Horse Park, Williamsburg. $75,000 Meijer CSI2* Grand Prix. Join Traverse City Horse Shows for a showcase of equestrian talent. Also enjoy food vendors & live music by The Huggy Bear Duo. Gates open at 8am; Grand Prix activity begins at noon.

100% of ticket revenue will be donated to A Kid Again-Michigan. From $15. eventbrite.com/e/75000-meijer-2-grand-prixtickets-884147778807?aff=odcleoeventsincollection

SUNDAY MUSIC IN THE PARK: 4-6pm, Marina Park, Harbor Springs. Featuring the Rivertown Jazz Band. Bring your own seating. Free.

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WORLD YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: RAY CHEN PERFORMS TCHAIKOVSKY’S VIOLIN CONCERTO: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Music Director, Orchestre National de France Music Director, & World Youth Symphony Orchestra Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Cristian Măcelaru takes the podium as the World Youth Symphony Orchestra welcomes Queen Elisabeth Competition-winning violinist Ray Chen. $28, $21. interlochen.org/events/world-youthsymphony-orchestra-ray-chen-performstchaikovskys-violin-concerto-2024-07-07

VESPER CONCERT: CARIBBEAN

CRUISE: 8pm, Bay View, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. Enjoy a spicy taste of music from Cuba, Haiti, & the Caribbean. Member: $18.50; non-member: $23.50; under 18: free. onthestage.tickets/bayview-association

monday

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: 10am, Bay View Association, Voorhies Hall, Petoskey. Professor Ada Ferrer presents a series of lectures exploring 500 years of relations between Cuba & the United States. A Cuban American herself, Professor Ferrer’s personal account of Cuban history focuses on the experiences of the island’s inhabitants, not just the centuries of geopolitics that have shaped their fate. Free. bayviewassociation.org/americanexperience

MOVIE MONDAYS: 3-5pm, Bellaire Public Library. Family friendly movie - popcorn included! PG or under. Free. bellairelibrary.org

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: (See above listing, except today’s time is 4-5pm at Bay View Association under the Large Tent, Petoskey.)

G.T. HUMANISTS MEETING: SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE: 6pm, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Join the Grand Traverse Humanists for a presentation by attorney Eleanor Lynn on the separation of church & state. Lynn will give an expert legal analysis of Supreme Court decisions issued over the past forty years dealing with freedom of religion. Free. gthumanists.org

JAMMIN’ MONDAYS ON BETSIE BAY: 7-9:15pm, Waterfront Park Amphitheater, Elberta. Featuring the Anthony Stanco Quintet. This music will transport you back to the Golden Era of Swing, Bop, Blues & Jazz.

MACKINAW AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY 2024 LECTURE SERIES: 7pm, Mackinaw Area Public Library, Mackinaw City. Learn the history of Mackinac Island State Park Commission with presenter Dennis Cawthorne.

MONDAY NIGHT MOVIE: 7:30pm, Bay View Association, Voorhies Hall, Petoskey. “Cuba and the Cameraman” (Documentary). 2017, 113 mins. Free. bayviewassociation.org/monday-night-movies

tuesday

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: (See first listing under Mon., July 8)

KID’S CRAFT LAB: FAIRY WANDS: 10:30am, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. greatlakeskids.org/get-crafty-at-home

Four-time Grammy Award-winner Sarah Jarosz will headline the 42nd Annual Blissfest on Friday evening. She’ll share her seventh full-length album, “Polariod Lovers” at 3695 Division Rd. in Harbor Springs. Along with 10 performance areas and 80+ acts, Blissfest offers a silent disco, drum kiva, open mic, buskers, workshops, Folkscool, kids and teen activities, disc golf, crafts and food vendors, healing arts, and much more. Running July 12-14, you can camp for the whole weekend. For tickets, a lineup and more info visit blissfest.org.

GAYLORD ALPENFEST: Today includes the Alpenfest Honors Luncheon & Awards Presentation, Senior Bingo, Art Tent Painting with Nature, Opening Ceremonies, Alpenfest Idol Preliminary Round, Art Tent Lampion Making, live music by Nameless, Burning of the Böögg & much more. gaylordalpenfest.com/2024-schedule

FREE OPEN STUDIO TUESDAYS: Noon4pm, Boyne Arts Center, Boyne City. Bring your paints, fiber arts, written arts, sculpting, jewelry, cards, drawing, or other portable mediums. Create & share.

TEEN SMOOTHIE PARTY: 3pm, Petoskey District Library, Makerspace. Featuring a variety of ingredients to choose for your smoothie. For ages 12-18. Free. calendar. petoskeylibrary.org/default/Detail/2024-0709-1500-Smoothie-Party

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: (See third listing under Mon., July 8)

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. ROYAL OAK LEPRECHAUNS: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague.com/traversecity-pit-spitters/schedule

MUSIC IN MACKINAW: STRAITS AREA CONCERT BAND: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Mackinaw City.

wednesday

GAYLORD ALPENFEST: Today includes the Alpenfest Attire Contest, Alpenfest Walking Parade, Die Groeste Kaffe Pause, Potato Sack Races, Stilt Walking Contest, Pizza Eating Contest, Rosco

the Clown & Tommy Tropic, Goldfish Eating Contest, live music by Frohliche Musiker Blasorchester Band, Satisfaction, the International Rolling Stones Tribute Show & much more. gaylordalpenfest.com/2024schedule

NMWC/HSACC ART SHOW: 9am-4pm, Nub’s Nob, Harbor Springs. Presented by Harbor Springs Area Chamber of Commerce & Northern Michigan Women’s Club. Featuring about 100 indoor & outdoor booths, live music by Pete Kehoe, a menu from the Slightly Gourmet Café & more. Suggested $5 admission donation.

GUIDED WALKING HISTORY TOURS

OF TRAVERSE CITY: 10am, Perry Hannah Plaza, corner of 6th & Union, TC. This informative tour is about two miles long & takes a little more than two hours. Groups of four or more can schedule tours at other times. Free; gratuities appreciated. walktchistory.com

DRUMMUNITY! RHYTHMIC FUN FOR EVERYONE WITH LORI FITHIAN: 10:30am, Interlochen Public Library. Lori will bring her collection of hand drums & percussion toys. 231-276-6767. Free.

NATURE IN THE PARK: 10:30am, Old City Park, Boyne City. River Explorers: Learn about the beneficial critters that live in rivers. Come prepared to roll up your sleeves & get your feet wet. Free. charlevoixcounty.org/conservation_district/backyard_nature_programs.php ----------------------

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. ROYAL OAK LEPRECHAUNS: 11:05am & 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague. com/traverse-city-pit-spitters/schedule

CHARLOTTE ROSS LEE CONCERTS

IN THE PARK: Noon, Pennsylvania Park, Gazebo, downtown Petoskey. Featuring John Richard Paul. Bring a lunch & lawn chair or picnic blanket. Free. crookedtree. org/event/ctac-petoskey/charlotte-ross-leeconcerts-park-2024

DART FOR ART: PREVIEW NIGHT: SOLD OUT: 6-9pm, Downtown Bay Harbor. Featuring strolling heavy appetizers, drinks, live music, & silent auction as guests mix & mingle with artists to preview the Dart for Art (Crooked Tree Arts Center’s premier summer fundraiser) gallery. This year’s featured artist is Neil W. Ahrens. crookedtree. org/dart2024

BOYNE AREA CHAMBER PAVILION SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: 6:30pm, Veteran’s Park Pavilion, Boyne City. Featuring Bill McAllister. Free.

BOOK TALK WITH MOLLY MOODY: 7pm, Suttons Bay-Bingham District Library. Molly will share her father’s book, “A Father’s Arms.” The year was 1945, in the closing months of World War II, not long before Maynard, a captain in a U.S. Army Tank Destroyer battalion, would enter Adolf Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest hideaway. There would be other brushes with death before Maynard returned home to his wife & daughter, born while he was away. He would also write in his war diary, completed 53 years after the end of WWII, to help his children understand what happened to America & to him in the journey from Pearl Harbor to Victory in Europe. Now, 78 years after the war’s conclusion & nearly two years since Maynard’s death in TC at the age of 101, Maynard’s oldest daughter, Mollie Moody, has led the charge of getting her father’s diary published. 100% of the proceeds

from his book will go to the VFW of Michigan. Please note that the library will close at 6pm & reopen at 6:45pm for this event. Free. sbbdl.org ----------------------

ELLSWORTH CONCERTS ON THE SQUARE: 7pm, Ellsworth Community Square. Featuring Cyndel Thompson. ----------------------

JAZZ, JOKES & JESUS: 7pm, The Presbyterian Church of TC, 701 Westminster Rd. Benefit for local charities. Enjoy music by the Back Room Gang, jokes, inspiration & refreshments. Charity recipients: Big Brothers Big Sisters; Before, During and After Incarceration; & Generations Ahead. Free. tcpresby.org/j-j-j

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LAKE STREET DIVE: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. This quintet brings their energetic live show with a blend of jazz, rock, soul & pop. They recorded the Emmy Award-nominated theme song for Netflix’s “Somebody Feed Phil,” & earned a top-ten spot on the Billboard 200 with “Free Yourself Up.” Enjoy favorites such as “Good Kisser” & “Making Do.” $42$82. interlochen.org/events/lake-streetdive-2024-07-10

CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT: 8pm, Bay View, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. Wild Card Wednesday: Adventures Under the Big Top. $18.50 non-members; free for members & under 18. onthestage.tickets/ bay-view-association

july 11

thursday

KIDS CAN COOK! COOKING CLASS: 10am, Interlochen Public Library. For ages 5-12. The youngest

participants play with sensory food activities; the older children can participate in a food cutting & prep station using special knives, & then they take the fresh vegetables & fruits & assemble a fun snack or treat. Registration required: 231-2766767. Free.

GET CRAFTY: 10:15am, Petoskey District Library, Children’s Program Room. Alexis of Fox & Hound in Petoskey will help you get crafty. For ages 3+. First come, first serve due to limited supplies. Free. calendar. petoskeylibrary.org/default/Detail/2024-0711-1015-Get-Crafty-with-Fox-amp-Hound

GAYLORD ALPENFEST: Today includes Mommy & Me Yoga, Alpenstrasse, Ethnic Alley, & T.J. Schmidt Amusements, Jump Rope Competition, Ladies Ankle Competition, Instrument Making, Men’s Knee Competition, La Promenade Des Biscuits, Decorate Your Bike, Bike & Trike Parade, Stone Throw Contest, selections from Gaylord Community Productions’ summer musical, “Matilda,” Mega 80s & much more. gaylordalpenfest.com/2024-schedule

SUMMER READING ADVENTURE W/ STEVENS PUPPET THEATRE: 10:30am, North Park Pavilion, Suttons Bay. Handcarved puppets in action! For all preschool, elementary & middle-school students. Free. sbbdl.org

ADVENTURE UNDERWATER MERMAID STORY HOUR: 1pm, Richardi Park Beach, Bellaire. Presented by Bellaire Public Library. Gather at the beachfront with a mermaid for a special story hour.

MEET THE AUTHOR: 1-3pm, McLean & Eakin Booksellers, Petoskey. Featuring Chad V. Broughman, author of “The Fall of Bellwether.” Free. mcleanandeakin.com

DART FOR ART: MAIN EVENT: SOLD OUT: 6-10pm, Downtown Bay Harbor. Crooked Tree Arts Center’s premier summer fundraiser. Enjoy dining, auction items, & artwork in the Dart Gallery. Also includes “darting”; when your name is called, you run & grab a piece of artwork off the wall to take home. crookedtree.org/dart2024

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YOGA @ TADL: 6pm, Traverse Area District Library, front lawn, TC. Provided by Embody the Bee NPO, AKA EmbodyTC. Free. tadl.org/event/yoga-tadl-14940

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BETSIE BAY FURNITURE SUMMER SOUND SERIES: THE CHARLIE MILLARD BAND: 6:30pm, Betsie Bay Furniture, Frankfort. Beer, wine & cocktails will be available for purchase. All tickets sales will go to FLOW. $30 per person. tinyurl. com/58hj8n85

HARBOR SPRINGS STREET MUSIQUE: TOUR DE BLISS: 6:30-8:30pm, Downtown Harbor Springs. Featuring Nicholas James Thomasma, Nathan & Jessie, Great Lakes Brass, Daniel Bracken, & Tommy Tropic.

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SHELF-AWARE READERS: WELLNESS BOOK GROUP: 6:30pm, Traverse Area District Library, Thirlby Room, TC. Join quarterly to discuss nonfiction books concerning mental & physical wellness. Facilitators for the discussions will be professional mental health providers courtesy of Head and Heart Therapeutic Services & Open Space Counseling. This month’s book is “Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting, or Self-Involved Parents” by Lindsay Gibson. Free. tadl.org/event/shelf-awarereaders-wellness-book-group-8897

“THE CONGREGATIONAL SUMMER ASSEMBLY THEN & NOW: 123 YEARS & COUNTING”: 7pm, The Mills Community House, Benzonia. Presented by Jane Coo-

per. What has changed at the Congrega tional Summer Assembly after 123 years? Recommended donation: $5. benziemu seum.org

CONCERTS ON THE LAWN: ions, on the lawn, TC. Featuring Miriam Pic and Friends. Concessions will be available for purchase from 5:30-7pm. The concert runs from 7-8pm. Free. gtpavilions.org/ news-events/2024-concerts-on-the-lawn

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LIVE ON THE LAKE SUMMER CON CERT SERIES: Charlevoix. Featuring The Hazel James Band bringing a diverse musical repertoire spanning decades & genres. Enjoy folk, rock & more.

MUSIC IN THE AIR SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: 7pm, Old Art Building, lawn, Le land. Featuring Mulebone, made up of multi-instrumentalist John Ragusa & roots music specialist Hugh Pool. Enjoy their tra ditional blues. Bring lawn chairs or blankets & a picnic dinner. Free.

NWS PRESENTS: AN EVENING WITH ERIK LARSON:

TC. The #1 New York Times bestselling au thor of “The Splendid and the Vile” presents his book, “Demon of Unrest,” an account of the chaotic months between Lincoln’s election & the Confederacy’s shelling of Sumter. Guest host is #1 New York Times bestselling author Doug Stanton. $10-$57. cityoperahouse.org/node/589 ----------------------

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. ROYAL OAK LEP RECHAUNS: dium, TC. northwoodsleague.com/traversecity-pit-spitters/schedule

JORDAN VALLEY COMMUNITY BAND: 7:30pm, Memorial Park Bandshell, East Jordan. ----------------------

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW:

Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. Discovered by the legendary Doc Watson, Old Crow Medicine Show are two-time Grammy Award winners who have been inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, recorded eight albums, and are known for songs such as “Down Home Girl,” “Tell It To Me,” & “Wagon Wheel.” International Bluegrass Music Award-winning guitarist & songwriter Molly Tuttle & her band Golden Highway join them to celebrate their Gram my-nominated eighth album, “Jubilee.” $38-$76. interlochen.org/events/old-crowmedicine-show-2024-07-11

SATELLITES, STARLINK, & SPACE

JUNK: 8pm, Headlands Event Center, Mackinaw City. Join Aurelian Balan, pro fessor of physics & astronomy at Delta College, for a presentation exploring the satellite boom, its impact on our planet, & the challenges & advances it presents. em metcounty.org/event/satellites-starlink-andspace-junk-w-aurelian-balan/?instance_ id=10180

july 12

disco, drum kiva, open mic, buskers, work shops, Folkscool, kids & teen activities, disc golf, crafts & food vendors, healing arts, & much more. Performers include The Wood Brothers, Sarah Jarosz, Donna the Buffalo, John Craigie, Alisa Amador, Bee Taylor, May Erlewine, Desmond Jones, The All American Funk Parade, John D. Lamb, Kirby, Robin Lee Berry, & many more. blissfestfestival.org

and more from Taqueria Mosquada in Nobo Mrkt

from Buchan’s at the NEW Creamery, open Wed to Sat from 11 am to 7 pm

from morning to night, for co ee, breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks

Far out visuals, live music + DJs spinning vinyl. Boogie down or chill with friends. Jul 20 with Dawn Campbell and the Bohemians, DJ Clark A er Dark and Super Nuclear • 9 to 11 pm • $15 Returning Aug 2, 16, 24 + 30

from SamRose Entertainment Jul 25 with ﬁve Michigan headliners, and Aug 22 with Steve Sabo, Tonya Murray, and Mike Geeter A er Dark with Tilt Think. Wild and weird and a li le raunchy. Jul 18 and Aug 15 from 9 to 11 pm

Super chill funky hang out with drinks. Come as you are, pay what you can.

Jul 8 with Funky Uncle Jul 15 with Big Fun 6 to 8:30 pm

GAYLORD ALPENFEST: Today includes a Pancake & Sausage Breakfast, Pet Parade, Alpenfest Idol Finals, Line Dancing Class, Bird House Building, Alpenfest Queens & Alpenfest Princess Pageant, live music by Family Tradition Band & much more. gaylordalpenfest.com/2024-schedule ----------------------

SHAY DAYS: 10am-3pm, Shay Park & Harbor Springs History Museum. Celebrating inventor & Harbor Springs resident Ephraim Shay who was famous for his patented, geared locomotive. Enjoy live model steam trains, historic toys & games with a reenactor from Hartwick Pines State Park, children’s crafts, games & STEM activities, logging demonstrations, interactive electric train layouts & more. harborspringschamber.com/events/details/shay-days15105?calendarMonth=2024-07-01

KID’S CRAFT LAB: FAIRY WANDS: (See Tues., June 9)

CHARLOTTE ROSS LEE CONCERTS

IN THE PARK: Noon, Pennsylvania Park, Gazebo, downtown Petoskey. Featuring the Boondoogle Cats. Free. crookedtree. org/event/ctac-petoskey/charlotte-ross-leeconcerts-park-2024

HIKE & HOPS: Noon-5:30pm, Elizabeth B. Hoffmann Nature Preserve, Charlevoix. Enjoy a hike at a Charlevoix County preserve followed by beer & pizza at Bier’s Inwood Brewery. The hilly trail traverses through a mix of orchards, woods, & farm fields, & along Inwood Creek. landtrust.org/eventstemplate/hike-and-hops

LATE NIGHT FRIDAY + RON GETZ FRONT PORCH CONCERT: 5-8pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center. Hometown favorite Ron Getz, guitarist & composer, will perform on the GAAC’s Front Porch stage from 5-7pm. In the GAAC’s Main Gallery is Members Create. This annual exhibition showcases the talents of current GAAC members, including painting, mixed media, sculpture, clay & more. Native Plants, an exhibition of painted & chain stitched canvases by Dana Falconberry, is on view in the Lobby Gallery. Free. glenarborart.org/events-page/events-all

OTP YOUNG COMPANY PRESENTS “RAINBOW FISH”: 6pm, Grand Traverse Mall, TC. Performed by the Theatre Explorers one-week campers. $21 adults; $12 for under 18. oldtownplayhouse.com/youngcompany/performances/rainbow-fish.html

EAST JORDAN MUSIC IN THE PARK: 7pm, Memorial Park Bandshell, East Jor-

dan. Featuring Two Beats.

KODAK QUARTET: 7pm, Oliver Art Center, Frankfort. This award-winning string ensemble will perform in collaboration with Interlochen Public Radio’s Sound Garden Project. Kodak Quartet is highly regarded for their work with contemporary composers & for presenting traditional music with a contemporary flair. A limited number of free tickets are available. Must be reserved in advance. Free. oliverart.org ----------------------

SUMMER SOUNDS CONCERT: YOUNGMAN & OLDMEN: 7pm, Michigan Legacy Art Park, Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. Frank Youngman & Mark Schrock (aka Oldmen) bring Americana folk tunes, vintage jazz, old country music & singalongs. They’ll be joined by Jive At Five bandmate Tom T. Ball on bass. $15 online. crystalmountain. com/event/summer-sounds-july

TC SACRED DRUMMING CIRCLE: 7pm, Silver Lake Recreation Area, TC. No drum necessary, but feel free to bring an acoustic item of your own making. Earth Blessing will start each event. Dress for outside. Children must stay with adults. 231-383-0803. Free. groups.google.com/g/tc-sacred-drum-circle THE GENTLEMEN OF MOTOWN FEATURING THE TEMPTATIONS & THE FOUR TOPS: 7:30pm, City Opera House, TC. Hits include “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Get Ready,” & many more. $44-$64. cityoperahouse.org/node/602

MUSIC IN MACKINAW: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Mackinaw City. Enjoy folk, Celtic, & bluegrass with the Inland String Band.

MUSICAL: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF: 8pm, Bay View, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. General Reserved - Member: $32.50; General Reserved - Non-Member: $34.50; Under 18: Free. onthestage.tickets/ bay-view-association

COUNTRY CONCERT SERIES: NEON UNION, FOLLOWED BY DJ: 9pm, Odawa Casino Resort, Victories, Petoskey. $10. odawacasino.com/entertainment

july 13

saturday

GAYLORD ALPENFEST:

Today includes the Alpenfest Run, Alpenfest Grand Parade, live music by Grand Traverse Pipe and

Drum, Petoskey Steel Drum Band Concert, Walking Tacos, RepliKaty-The Katy Perry Experience & much more. gaylordalpenfest. com/2024-schedule

SWEATY YETI RUN - 5K & MEMORY MILE RUN: East Jordan High School, Boswell Stadium. 5K: 8am; Make a Memory Mile: 9am. sweatyyetirun.com/race-day ----------------------

42ND ANNUAL BLISSFEST: (See Fri., July 12) ----------------------

LOOP THE LAKE: 9am, Hull Park, TC. Celebrate the Boardman Lake Loop Trail! A 4-mile trail race around Boardman Lake. $40 + $3.40 SignUp fee. runsignup.com/Race/ Events/MI/TraverseCity/LoopTheLake

SUMMER CRAFT SHOW: 9am-4pm, Emmet County Fairgrounds, Petoskey. Featuring jewelry, home goods, food & more. $2 or nonperishable food item. emmetcounty.org/parksrecreation/parks-rec-news/parks-schedule

55TH ANNUAL CHARLEVOIX ART & CRAFT SHOW: 10am-6pm, East Park & Bridge St., downtown Charlevoix. Includes a mix of fine arts & hobby crafts. Featuring acrylic & oil paintings, sculpture, handblown glass beadwork, pottery, baskets, furniture, clothing & accessories, hand-woven rugs, quilted works & much more. business. charlevoix.org/events/details/55th-annualcharlevoix-art-craft-show-14730

ELK RAPIDS ARTS & CRAFT SHOW: 10am-4pm, River St., downtown Elk Rapids. More than 70 artisans & crafters displaying & selling their works. Pet friendly, family friendly. Free. elkrapidschamber.org/ arts-crafts-show

FREE DROP-IN FAMILY ART: 10am-noon, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Cornwell Gallery, TC. crookedtree.org/class/ctac-traversecity/free-drop-family-art-july

FRIENDS OF THE LELAND TOWNSHIP LIBRARY USED BOOK SALE: 10am2pm, Leland Township Library, Munnecke Room, Leland. lelandlibrary.org

OPEN STUDIO, PETOSKEY: (See Sat., July 6)

SHAY DAYS: (See Fri., July 12)

SOUTH ARM CLASSIC CAR SHOW: 10am, East Jordan Memorial Park. BOYNE THUNDER POKER RUN: 10:15am, Boyne City. A powerboat poker run for parade laps; heads to Elk Rapids for

the first card stop; Northport is the second stop for cards; participants then head to lunch in Charlevoix & return to the run after 1:30pm; onto Bay Harbor where the boats head into the harbor at the end of the dock for their cards; Horton Bay is the final stop; poker hands are turned in back in Boyne City. boynethunder.com

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IKEBANA POP-UP EXHIBIT: 11am-4pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. TC’s Ikebana International chapter will present original floral arrangements in the sculpture court & galleries for visitors to enjoy. Join for a weekend of botanical creation & artistic inspiration. dennosmuseum.org

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FIFTH ANNUAL CHERRY WHISKEY FEST: Noon-4pm, The Stillhouse - Traverse City Whiskey Co., TC. Tickets include Barrel Proof Cherry Whiskey samples + cocktails, raffle for VIP Experience, live music, yard games, specialty Glencairn glass, food trucks & more. $30 online; $35 door. tcwhiskey.com/events-classes

BENZIE COMMUNITY CHORUS PRESENTS SOUNDS OF SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: “FEELING GOOD”: 7pm, Mills Community House, Auditorium, Benzonia. Enjoy a light hearted evening of song. 231651-0311. $20. benziechorus.org

CHAMBERFEST: “MUSIC OF THE NIGHT” WITH EVREN OZEL: 7:30pm, Cheboygan Opera House. “Music of the Night” features works for piano by Beethoven (the “Moonlight” Sonata), Debussy, Bartok, Schumann, & Gaspard de la nuit by Ravel. $30; $25 Veterans; free for students. theoperahouse.org/tickets ----------------------

NORAH JONES: SOLD OUT: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. Sweeping the 2003 Grammy Awards with her moody debut album “Come Away With Me,” Jones has sold more than 52 million albums since then, & shares her latest album, “Visions,” with jazz-infused pop hits such as “Don’t Know Why” & “Sunrise.” interlochen.org/events/norahjones-2024-07-13

MUSIC IN MACKINAW: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Mackinaw City. Featuring Full Throttle (Doo Wop Harmonies).

MUSICAL: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF: (See Fri., July 12) ----------------------

AIR MARGARITAVILLE: 9pm, Little River Casino Resort, Manistee. Enjoy this Jimmy Buffet Tribute. For ages 18+. Free. lrcr.com/

event/air-margaritaville-jimmy-buffet-tribute STAR PARTY: 9-11pm, Dune Climb parking lot, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire. Rangers will provide info on preserving dark skies, & GTAS will have telescopes set up for visitors to enjoy. Please park in the row furthest from the dunes with your headlights facing M-109. You only need to purchase the park entrance pass or have an annual pass displayed in your vehicle. 231-326-4700, ext. 5005.

sunday

42ND ANNUAL BLISSFEST: (See Fri., July 12)

55TH ANNUAL CHARLEVOIX ART & CRAFT SHOW: (See Sat., July 13, except today’s time is 10am-4pm)

IKEBANA POP-UP EXHIBIT: (See Sat., July 13)

SECOND SUNDAY ART PROJECT: IKEBANA FLOWER ARRANGING: Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. 1pm: Ikebana Flower Arranging for Littles. 2pm: Ikebana Flower Arranging for Ages 9-16. $0-$10. simpletix.com/e/second-sunday-art-project-ikebana-flower-a-tickets-169644?utm_ source=cision&utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=dmc-summer-2024

TOP EQUESTRIAN ATHLETES COMPETING: 2pm, Flintfields Horse Park, Williamsburg. $120,000 B&D Builders CSI3* Grand Prix. Join Traverse City Horse Shows for a showcase of equestrian talent. There will also be food vendors, live music by Jen Sygit & more. Gates open at 8am; Grand Prix activity begins at noon. TCHS donates 100% of general admission ticket revenue each week. This week’s non-profit partner is Books from Birth/Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. From $14. eventbrite. com/e/120000-bd-builders-3-grand-prixtickets-884163495817?aff=odcleoeventsincollection

EUCHRE TOURNAMENT: 3pm, Summit City Grange, 9345 Church St., Kingsley. 1st, 2nd, & 3rd prizes. 231-577-8076. $3.

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KOKOMO JACKRABBITS: 5:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague.com/traverse-citypit-spitters/schedule

BENZIE COMMUNITY CHORUS PRESENTS SOUNDS OF SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: “FEELING GOOD”: (See Sat., July 13)

BRUCE HORNSBY & THE NOISEMAKERS - SPIRIT TRAIL: 25TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR: SOLD OUT: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in Dec. 1986 with “The Way It Is,” Hornsby remains in-demand, having sold 11 million albums & worked with artists such as Bob Dylan, Chaka Khan & The Grateful Dead. interlochen.org/events/bruce-hornsby-noisemakers-spirit-trail-25th-anniversary-tour-2024-07-14

WORLD YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: CHRISTIAN REIF CONDUCTS DEBUSSY’S ‘LA MER’: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. $28, $21. interlochen.org/events/world-youthsymphony-orchestra-christian-reif-conducts-debussys-la-mer-2024-07-14

VESPER CONCERT: HUMORESQUE: 8pm, Bay View, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. Laugh with an evening of light classics, pops, & parodies. Member: $18.50; Non-Member: $23.50; Under 18: Free. onthestage.tickets/bay-view-association

ongoing

EVENING ON RIVER STREET: Wednesdays, 6-9pm through July 31, River St., downtown Elk Rapids. A summer tradition! Local food, kids activities, & live music. elkrapidschamber.org/evening-on-river-street

MINERAL SPRINGS CONCERTS IN THE PARK: Mineral Springs Park, Frankfort. Held on Fridays through Aug. 16 + Aug. 30 at 7pm.

RUN, WALK OR BIKE: Wednesdays, 6pm through Aug. 28, Northland Brewing Co., Indian River. Held on a crushed limestone, flat trail. All paces & ages welcomed. 810444-0247.

PAWS TO READ: Wednesdays, noon2pm through Aug. 7, Petoskey District Library. Featuring Lady AnnaBella, a certified therapy dog. Practice reading aloud with a furry friend. Reserve your 15-minute session. calendly.com/pdlyouth/paws-toread?month=2024-06

CRAFTS WITH KRISTY: Mondays, 10:30am-noon through July 29 at Interlochen Public Library. Kids will learn & practice different craft skills. Geared for ages 5-12, but all are welcome. 231-276-6767.

OUTDOOR STORY TIME: Held outside the Suttons Bay-Bingham District Library, overlooking the beach on Tuesdays through Aug. 13 at 10:30am. Please bring a blanket for your family to sit on. These story times are geared toward pre-k to second graders & their caregivers, but fun for all who attend. Rain site is the library’s lower level Community Room. sbbdl.org

HISTORIC 1842 DOUGHERTY OLD MISSION HOUSE TOURS: Dougherty Old Mission House, TC. This house was built by Rev. Peter Dougherty, Chief Agosa, the Odawa and Chippewa who lived along East Bay. Visit the summer kitchen, carriage shed & icehouse with a zinc refrigerator. Learn about the Old Mission Peninsula Agricultural Heritage where the fruit industry began. Discover its ties to the Old Mission Lighthouse. Open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 11am until 4pm. doughertyoldmissionhouse.com

STROLL THE STREETS: Lake & Main streets, downtown Boyne City. Enjoy live music, entertainment, children’s activities, & much more Friday evenings from 6-9pm through Labor Day. boynecitymainstreet. com/event/stroll-the-streets/2024-06-07

BALANCE BIKE CLUB MEET-UPS: Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30am through Aug. 28 at Norte Clubhouse, GT County Civic Center, TC. For first time riders who are ages 2-5 in TC. Drop-in. No need to bring your bike. There are plenty to borrow. norteyouthcycling.org/calendar/traversecity-slow-roll

farmers markets

CASTLE FARMERS MARKET: Birch Lake, Castle Farms, Charlevoix. Held every Tues. from 8am-1pm through Oct. 15. Celebrating craftsmanship, emphasizing the artistry of handmade goods & locally sourced produce. castlefarms.com/events/farmers-market

DOWNTOWN PETOSKEY FARMERS MARKET: Howard St., between E. Mitchell St. & Michigan St., Downtown Petoskey. Held every Fri. through Sept. 27 from 8:30am-1pm. Featuring seasonal locally grown produce, locally raised meats, caught fish, fresh cut flowers, plants, foraged mushrooms, from-scratch baked goods, sauces & more. There will also be live entertainment.

EAST BAY CORNERS FARMERS MARKET: Thursdays, 3-7pm through Oct. 31, 1965 N 3 Mile Rd., TC. Featuring fresh & locally grown produce & goods. Find ‘East Bay Corners Farmers Market’ on Facebook. ----------------------

EAST JORDAN GARDEN CLUB’S FARMERS MARKET: Held each Thurs. from 10am-2pm at the East Jordan Tourist Park. Fresh veggies, fruits, baked goods, handmade items, fresh cut flowers & more. ----------------------

ELK RAPIDS FARMERS MARKET: Next to the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, on US 31 by the swan. Local growers & producers from all around northwestern Michigan. Shop every Friday morning through Oct. 4, 8am-noon. elkrapidschamber.org/farmers-market

EMPIRE FARMERS MARKET: 10234 Front St., Empire. Held on Saturdays, 9am1pm through Aug. 31. leelanaufarmersmarkets.com/empire

GLEN ARBOR FARMERS MARKET: 6394 W. Western Ave., Glen Arbor. Held every Tues., 9am-1pm through Sept. 10. leelanaufarmersmarkets.com/glen-arbor

HARBOR SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays, 9am-1pm through Oct. 19. Corner of Main & State streets, Harbor Springs.

HONOR FARMERS ARTIST & MAKERS MARKET: Maley Park on US31, across from Honor Plaza. Held every Tues., 9am2pm through Sept. 3. Featuring 24 vendors & fun community events. Find ‘Honor Farmers Artist & Makers Market’ on Facebook.

INTERLOCHEN FARMERS MARKET: Sundays, 9am-2pm through Oct.; Thursdays, 2-7pm through Aug. 2112 Joe Maddy Parkway, Interlochen. Featuring 60+ vendors. Includes local produce, baked goods, arts & crafts, & more. facebook.com/InterlochenFarmersMarket

LELAND FARMERS MARKET: Immanuel Lutheran Church Parking Lot, Leland. Held every Thurs., 9am-1pm through Sept. 5. leelanaufarmersmarkets.com/leland

MACKINAW CITY FARMER’S MARKET: Held every Mon. through Sept. 30 at 9am at Conkling Heritage Park, parking lot. ----------------------

NORTHPORT FARMERS MARKET: 105 S. Bay St., Northport. Held every Fri., 9am1pm through Sept. 20. leelanaufarmersmarkets.com/northport

OUTDOOR FARMERS MINI MARKET: Mondays, 1-5pm through Aug. 26. The Village at GT Commons, The Piazza, under Pavilion, TC. The market will grow as the flowers, fruits & veggies grow & become available. thevillagetc.com

SARA HARDY DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET: Runs every Weds. through Oct. from 8am-noon; & every Sat. through Oct. from 7:30am-noon. Held in parking lot “B” at the southwest corner of Cass St. & Grandview Parkway in Downtown TC.

SUTTONS BAY FARMERS MARKET:

Saint Joseph St., at north end of village. Held on Saturdays through Oct. 19 from 9am-1pm. Farmers market selling local produce, flowers, baked goods, artisan products. leelanaufarmersmarkets.com/ suttons-bay

BOYNE THUNDER JULY EXHIBIT: “ALL THINGS WATERCRAFT”: Boyne Arts Center, Boyne City. This exhibit will showcase artists of different mediums’ artwork inspired by Boyne Thunder. The goal is to have as many renditions as possible of travel on the

• New modern-style home on over 3 acres

• Beautiful view of serene countryside

• Perfect for horses with access to trails!

$1,200,000

water. This can include kayaks, sailboats, jet skis, canoes, & anything in-between. boynearts.org

NORTHERN VIEWS: Higher Art Gallery, TC. Edward Duff Solo Exhibit. This exhibit runs through Aug. 3, with an Opening Reception on July 20 from 6-8pm. Northern Views is born out of the artist’s love for the natural beauty found in the surroundings of northern Michigan. This body of work is comprised of 9 new oil paintings. higherartgallery.com

SUMMER’S PALETTE MAGIC THURSDAY ARTIST ANNUAL SHOW & RECEPTION: City Opera House, TC. Runs through Aug. Featuring over 100 original paintings. A portion of all sales benefits the City Opera House. Join the opening reception on July 16 from 5-7pm for a “Picnic of ART” featuring $100 cash paintings by all artists plus other cash specials. Featured artists are Sue Bowerman, Lori Feldpausch, Rita Harrington, Ruth Kitchen, Dorothy Mudget, Marilyn Rebant, Dorothy Ruble, Stephanie Schlatter, Laura Swire, & Adam VanHouten. cityoperahouse.org

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FANTASY TEEN ART: Mondays, 2-3:30pm through Aug. 26 at Petoskey District Library, Classroom. Join local young adult artist Ronan Baumhardt to create fantasy based art. The library will provide art supplies. All skill levels welcome. For ages 10-18. calendar.petoskeylibrary.org/default/Detail/202406-10-1400-Fantasy-Teen-Art

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SUMMER SALON: Charlevoix Circle of Arts. The fifth annual salon-style art sale showcasing regionally inspired work from more than 40 local & area fine artists. Runs through Aug. 31. The Summer Salon Open House will be held on Fri., July 12 from 5-7pm, along with the Paint Out Event (July 11-12) & Wet Paint Sale & Reception. charlevoixcircle.org

UNIQUE ART OF ANTRIM COUNTY OUTDOOR ART EXHIBIT: Downtown Bellaire. Featuring 12 local artists’ works on display. After the exhibit the artwork will be auctioned off, & these funds will help fund future public art exhibitions in Downtown Bellaire. Runs through Oct. 31. bellaireart. wixsite.com/bellaireart

CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, PETOSKEY:

- AURAS OF TRAVEL: PAINTINGS BY DOROTHY MCGRATH GROSSMAN: Runs through July 27 in Atrium Gallery. Dorothy’s work immerses the viewer in the tranquility of rolling hills & expansive skies. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/ auras-travel-paintings-dorothy-mcgrathgrossman

- MICHIGAN: AN AMERICAN PORTRAIT: Runs through Aug. 31 in Gilbert Gallery. This exhibit re-envisions the PBS documentary film of the same name as a dynamic art & culture exhibition. Open Tues. through Sat. from 10am-5pm. crookedtree.org/event/ ctac-petoskey/michigan-american-portrait - HORIZONS: LANDSCAPES & FIGURES BY ROBERT & SUSAN PERRISH: Held in Bonfield Gallery through Aug. Works by Michigan-based painters Robert & Susan Perrish. Open Tues. through Sat. from 10am-5pm. crookedtree.org/event/ctacpetoskey/horizons-landscapes-and-figuresrobert-and-susan-perrish

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CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, TC:

- CLAY IN SPACE: Held in Cornwell Gallery, July 12 - Aug. 23. A juried exhibition of contemporary clay & ceramic artwork. An opening reception will be held on July 12 from 5-7pm. Check web site for CTAC’s hours. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traversecity/clay-space-ctac-tc

- NEW VISTAS: EMERGING NORTHERN MICHIGAN PAINTERS & PRINTMAKERS: Runs July 12 - Aug. 23 in Carnegie East Gallery. A curated exhibition by Rufus Snoddy & Glenn Wolff. Featuring a collection of artworks made by emerging young artists in the greater Grand Traverse area. An opening reception will be held on July 12 from 5-7pm. Check web site for CTAC hours. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traversecity/new-vistas-emerging-northern-michigan-painters-and-printmakers-tc

- PAINT GRAND TRAVERSE 2024 - EXTENDED EXHIBIT: Runs through Aug. 23 in Carnegie Rotunda. Experience the beauty & diversity of the Grand Traverse region through the eyes of 31 talented artists from across the country. This showcase features a collection of plein air artworks created during the 2024 week-long plein air event, Paint Grand Traverse. An opening reception will be held on July 12 from 5-7pm. Check web site for CTAC hours. crookedtree.org/ event/ctac-traverse-city/paint-grand-traverse-2024-extended-exhibition

DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC: - HARD EDGES, VIBRANT COLORS: OP ART FROM THE PERMANENT COLLECTION: Runs through Sept. 1. A subfield within the growing genre of Geometric Abstraction, Op Art often explores the interplay between geometry, tonal variations, & sharp, defined bands of color, all of which rely upon the viewer’s perceptions. “Hard Edges, Vibrant Colors” offers over a dozen works from the Dennos Museum Center’s permanent art collection. Check web site for hours. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcomingexhibitions/index.html

- LOUISE JONES: “10,000 FLOWERS”: Runs through Sept. 1. This exhibit showcases new works by Jones drawing inspiration

from still life & landscape traditions such as Trompe-l’œil (the illusion of three dimensional space), Vanitas (themes of mortality), scientific botanical illustration, & cityscapes. Best known for her floral murals, her new works on canvas mark a departure, delving further into our relationships with the natural world, seasons, & death. Also on display is Jones’ “50 State Flowers” project, in which the flowers representing each US state are painted in crisp detail on individual miniature wood panels, which was created for an upcoming exhibition at the University of Michigan Museum of Art. See web site for hours. dennosmuseum.org/art/now-onview/index.html

- MICHIGAN WATER COLOR SOCIETY 77TH ANNUAL EXHIBIT: Runs through Sept. 1. This year’s exhibit was juried by award-winning artist, instructor & juror Stan Kurth. Michigan Water Color Society received 193 submissions from 105 different artists, with 55 being chosen for inclusion. The 30 pieces chosen by the juror to receive awards will later become a Travel Show to be on display at different locations across the state. Check web site for hours. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/index.html

- SOLO E TUTTI: A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY: Runs through Sept. 1. Inspired by the musical phrases “Solo e Tutti,” which translates to “alone” & “everyone,” this collection of works offers a new take on the concept of community, reflecting the diversity of backgrounds that make up the students at Interlochen Arts Academy. Open Tues. through Sun., 11am-4pm. Closed on major holidays. dennosmuseum. org/art/now-on-view/solo-e-tutti.html?utm_ source=cision&utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=dmc-summer-2024

GLEN ARBOR ARTS CENTER:

- “MEMBERS CREATE” RETURNS: Featuring the work of 41 current GAAC members, in an array of work: 2D + 3D media including: clay, collage, fiber, mixed media, painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, & more. Runs through Aug. 8. glenarborart.org/exhibits/current-exhibits

- NATIVE PLANTS: PAINTED + STITCHED CANVASES BY DANA FALCONBERRY: Held in the Lobby Gallery through Aug. 29. Falconberry, a musician, printmaker, painter & more, has been creating textile works that combine hand-painted imagery with machine chain stitch embroidery. She uses this hybrid method of creation to continue her exploration & interpretation of native plants local to northern Michigan. Gallery hours are Mon. through Fri., 9am-3pm; & Sat. & Sun., noon-4pm. glenarborart.org/eventspage/events-all

- OUTDOOR GALLERY EXHIBIT: MARGO BURIAN + ORDINARY MAGIC: Leelanau County artist Margo Burian’s collages

have been chosen for display in the Glen Arbor Arts Center’s 2024-25 Outdoor Gallery exhibition, an annual, invitational exhibit. Burian’s collages are rooted in the idea of Ordinary Magic, or delight. They were reproduced on five, 5-foot-square, weatherresistant aluminum panels created by Image 360 of TC. Runs through April 20, 2025. Check web site for hours. glenaborart.org

OLIVER ART CENTER, FRANKFORT:

- FINDING THE LIGHT: PHOTOGRAPHY & GLASS: Runs through Aug. 2. An invitational exhibit combining fine art photography with luminous art glass. Michigan artists will be featured as you explore the interplay of light & shadow & how they affect both mediums in different ways. oliverart.org

- OAC ANNUAL SUMMER MEMBER SHOW: A wide variety of artistic styles, media & techniques will be showcased, highlighting the talents of Oliver Art Center members. An artist talk will take place on Fri., July 25 from 4-6pm. The exhibit runs through July 26. Open M-F, 10am-4pm & Sun., noon-4pm. oliverart.org

Deadline for Dates information is Tuesday for the following week.

Grand Traverse & Kalkaska

ALEXANDRA INN, TC

BLUSH, ROOFTOP TERRACE:

Mon -- John Piatek, 6-8

BONOBO WINERY, TC

7/12 -- Kevin Reeves, 6-8

CHATEAU CHANTAL, TC EAST PATIO:

7/12 -- Matt Gabriel, 5-8

WEST PATIO: Thu -- Jazz at Sunset w/ Jeff Haas

Trio & Laurie Sears, 7

COMMON GOOD RESTAURANT, TC

7/6 -- Billy & The Kid

7/12 -- Hugh Pool

7/13 -- Rebekah Jon

ENCORE 201, TC

7/4-6 & 7/12-13 -- DJ Ricky T

7/11 -- DJ JR

FANTASY’S, TC DJ

FRESH COAST BEER WORKS, TC

7/12 -- Mike Moran, 7-10

GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT AND SPA, ACME MAIN LOBBY BAR, 7-10: 7/12 -- Ben Richey

7/13 -- Blair Miller

IDENTITY BREWING CO., TC PATIO:

7/12 -- John Paul Duo, 6-9

JACOB'S FARM, TC

6-9:

7/6 – Luke Woltanski

7/7 – Charlie Arnett

7/10 – Nick Veine

7/11 – Porcupine Crossing

7/12 – King of Mars

7/13 – Lighting Matches

7/14 – Doc Probes

KILKENNY'S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE, TC Mon -- Team Trivia, 7-9

Tue -- The Will Harris Trio, 8 Wed -- The Pocket, 8 Thu -- DJ Leo, 9:30

KINGSLEY LOCAL BREWING

7/9 – Open Mic Night, 6-7

7/11 – Trivia Night, 7-9

7/13 – Ruby John, 7-9

LEFT FOOT CHARLEY, TC BARREL ROOM:

7/8 – Open Mic w/ Rob Coonrod, 6-9

TASTING ROOM: 5-7:

7/6 – Ben Traverse

7/13 – Highway North

LIL BO, TC Tues. – Trivia, 8-10 Sun. – Karaoke, 8

MIDDLECOAST BREWING CO., TC

7/6 -- Brett Mitchell Band, 8-11

7/11 -- Les Dalgliesh, 6-9

7/12 -- Jesse Jefferson, 6-9

7/13 -- ZUZ, 8-11

NORTH BAR, TC

7/6 – Chris Sterr, 1-4; David Cisco, 5-8

7/7 – John Piatek, 1-4; Amanda Igra, 5-8

7/10 – Jesse Jefferson, 5-8

7/11 – Jim Hawley, 7-10

7/12 – Drew Hale, 1-4; Kevin Paul, 5-8

7/13 – Mal & Mike, 1-4; Jimmy Olson, 5-8

7/14 – SkyeLea, 1-4; Luke Woltanski & John Piatek, 5-8

OLD MISSION DISTILLING, TC SEVEN HILLS:

7/6 -- One Hot Robot, 6

7/7 -- Jesse Jefferson, 6

7/10 -- Jimmy Olson, 6:30

7/11 -- Jacob McLeod, 6

7/12 -- Rhythm Theory, 6

7/13 -- DJ Ras Marco D, 6

7/14 -- Blair Miller, 5-8

SORELLINA'S, TC SLATE RESTAURANT:

Thurs. -- Tom Kaufmann on Piano, 5-8

Fri. & Sat. – Tom Kaufmann on Piano, 6-9

STONE HOUND BREWING CO., WILLIAMSBURG

7:30: 7/11 -- Blake Elliott

7/13 -- Allie Kessel

TC COUNTRY CLUB

7/12 -- Jim Hawley, 6-9

THE ALLUVION, TC

7/8 -- Funky Uncle - Funky Fun Mondays, 6-8:30

7/10 -- The Pocket, 7:30-10

7/11 -- HeyMan, 7:30-9

THE LITTLE FLEET, TC PATIO:

7/12 – Fern Whale, 6-10

THE PARLOR, TC

7/6 – Kevin Paul, 6-9; Larz Cabot, 9-12

7/9 – Jesse Jefferson, 8-11

7/10 – Wink Solo, 8-11

7/11 – Jimmy Olson, 8-11

7/12 – Jeff Linsell, 6-9

7/13 – Blue Footed Booby, 8-11

THE PUB, TC

7/6 – Rolling Dirty Duo, 5-8; Empire Highway, 9-12

7/7 – Kevin Paul, 1-4; Rob Coonrod, 5-8

7/10 – Zeke Clemons, 8-11

7/11 – David Marton, 8-11

7/12 – Chris Sterr, 5-8; Larz Cabot, 9-12

7/13 – Amanda Igra, 5-8

7/14 – Nick Vasquez, 1-4; Rob Coonrod, 5-8

THE WORKSHOP BREWING CO.,

TC 7/9 -- Open Mic, 7-9

7/12 -- Levi Britton, 8

7/13 -- Boardman River Band, 8 7/14 -- Comedy Open Mic, 7-10

THIRSTY FISH SPORTS GRILLE,

TC PATIO, 6:30-9:30: 7/6 – Matt Mansfield

7/11 – TSP

7/12 – Tower of Bauer

7/13 -- Truetones

TOWNLINE CIDERWORKS, WILLIAMSBURG

6-8:

7/6 -- Kyle Skarshaug

7/12 -- Rob Coonrod

7/13 -- Big Rand

TRAVERSE CITY WHISKEY CO.

6-8:

7/6 & 7/13 – Ben Richey

7/12 -- Craig Jolly

TURTLE CREEK CASINO, WILLIAMSBURG

7/12 – DJ Mr. Markis, 9-1

UNION STREET STATION, TC 7/6 -- Soul Patch, 9:30

7/11 -- Ladies Night DJ 1Wave Dance Party, 10

7/12 -- DJ Prim, 10 7/13 -- Snacks & Five, 10 7/14 -- Red Elvises, 8

Manistee, Wexford & Missaukee

LITTLE RIVER CASINO RESORT, MANISTEE

7/13 – Air Margaritaville, 9-1

NORTHERN NATURAL CIDER HOUSE & WINERY, KALEVA 7/6 -- Full Cord, 7 7/12 -- Hannah Rose Graves Band, 7 7/14 -- Billy & The Kid, 4

ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY, GAYLORD

7/12 -- Mike Ridley, 6-9

C.R.A.V.E., GAYLORD

6-9:

7/6 -- Randy Reszka

7/10 -- Terry Coveyou

7/13 -- Jason Deam

THE GREENHOUSE - WILLOW/ PRIMOS, CADILLAC 7/6 – The Hey! Makers, 7-10

Otsego, Crawford & Central

PADDLE HARD YARD, GRAYLING

7/6 – Third Degree, 7-9

7/12 – Tim & Dani Folk Duo, 7-9

7/13 – Blake Elliott & Aaron Dye, 7-10

RAY'S BBQ, BREWS & BLUES, GRAYLING

4-7:

7/7 – Brian Curran 7/14 – Derek Boik

SOJOURN LAKESIDE RESORT, GAYLORD

7/10 -- Dig A Pony: A Beatles Tribute, 7

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BEARDS BREWERY, PETOSKEY 7/12 – Vinyl Suite: Sunset Patio Sessions feat. DJ Yakob

BIERE DE MAC BREW WORKS, MACKINAW CITY BACKYARD, 7-10: 7/6 -- Kirby 7/12 -- Curtis Grooters 7/13 -- Ty Parkin

BOB'S PLACE, ALANSON 7/10 -- Mike Ridley, 6-9

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS, PETOSKEY PATIO, 2-6:

7/6 & 7/12 -- Chris Calleja 7/13 -- Michelle Chenard

BURNT MARSHMALLOW BREWSTILLERY, PETOSKEY

7/6 – Terry Coveyou, 5:30-7:30; The Midwest Comedy Tour, 8 7/12 -- Lee Fayssoux, 5:30-7:30 7/13 – Peter Allen Jensen, 5:307:30; "Toppermost" Beatles Tribute Concert, 6

CITY PARK GRILL, PETOSKEY 7/12-13 -- Huckleberry Groove, 9

DOUGLAS LAKE STEAKHOUSE, PELLSTON

7/7 -- Nelson Olstrom, 6-9

GYPSY DISTILLERY, PETOSKEY 7/6 -- Ty Parkin, 11am-1pm; Beachsmoke, 4-6

7/13 -- Ty Parkin, noon-2

HIGH FIVE SPIRITS, PETOSKEY TASTING ROOM: Wed -- Trivia Night with MyClueIs Trivia, 8 7/12 -- DJ Parker Marshall, 9

LEGS INN, CROSS VILLAGE 7/12 -- Kirby, 5-8

NOGGIN ROOM PUB, PETOSKEY PATIO, 7:30-10:30: 7/6 – Michelle Chenard

7/10 – Hanna Von B

7/11 – Doug & Marcie Slater

7/12 – Beach Billies

7/13 – Lee Fayssoux

NOMAD., BAY HARBOR

7/7 & 7/14 -- DJ Parker Marshall, 4:30-10:30

NORTHLAND BREWING CO., INDIAN RIVER BACKYARD:

7/6 – Charlie Millard Band, 7-10

7/7 – Groove Yard Vinyl Session w/ DJ Franck, 5-8

7/11 – The Iconics, 6:30-8:30

7/12 – Lara Fullford, 7-10

7/13 – Dawson Rogers, 7-10

ODAWA CASINO RESORT, PETOSKEY VICTORIES, 9: 7/6 -- Battle of the Bands - Final Event 7/12 -- Country Concert Series:

Neon Union, followed by DJ POND HILL FARM, HARBOR SPRINGS

7/6 -- Michigan Mafia String Band, 5-8

7/7 -- Rhett & John, 3-6

Wed -- Open Mic Night Hosted by Kirby Snively, 5-8; sign up at 4:30 7/11 -- Pete "Big Dog" Fetters, 5-8 7/12 -- Delilah DeWylde, 5-8

7/13 -- M-119 Band, 5-8

7/14 -- Jackie Pappas, 3-6

QUEENSHEAD PUB, CHEBOYGAN

7/6 -- Mike Ridley, 6-9

THE BEAU, CHEBOYGAN

7/6 -- The Dirty Rain Revelers

7/11 -- Musicians Playground ‘Open Mic’ 7/12 -- Cold Leather Seats

THE HIGHLANDS AT HARBOR SPRINGS SLOPESIDE PATIO: 7/10 & 7/13 -- Nelson Olstrom, 6

THE STATION @ 310, INDIAN RIVER

7/11 -- Mike Ridley, 2-5

WALLOON LAKE WINERY, PETOSKEY

7/11 -- Strings Attached, 6-8

Emmet & Cheboygan

Detroit’s bluegrass and folk duo J&O Junction plays Lake Ann Brewing Co. on Sat., July 13 from 3-6pm and Iron Fish Distillery, Thompsonville on Sun., July 14 from 5-7pm.

nitelife

Antrim & Charlevoix

BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM

7/6, 7/11 & 7/13 -- Adam & The Cabana Boys, 7-10

BOYNE MOUNTAIN RESORT, BOYNE FALLS

BEACH HOUSE:

7/12 -- Nelson Olstrom, noon-3

CAFE SANTÉ, BOYNE CITY

7-10:

7/6 & 7/13 – Pete Kehoe

7/12 – Sean Bielby

ETHANOLOGY, ELK RAPIDS

7-10:

7/6 -- The Bootstrap Boys

7/13 -- Nathan Walton & The Remedy

FIRESIDE LOUNGE, BELLAIRE

7/6 -- Andy Grefe, 6:30-9:30

7/7 -- DJ Bingo, 6-8

7/9 -- The Marshall Morlock Band, 7-10

45 NORTH VINEYARD & WINERY, LAKE LEELANAU

7/11 -- Sam & Bill, 4-6

BEL LAGO VINEYARD, WINERY & CIDERY, CEDAR

7/6 -- Larz Cabot, 3:30-5:30

7/7 -- Jim Hawley, 3:30-5:30

7/9 -- John Piatek, 5:30-7:30

7/12 -- Dominic Fortuna, 5:30-7:30

7/13 -- Zeke Clemons, 3:30-5:30

7/14 -- Nick Veine, 3:30-5:30

BLACK STAR FARMS, SUTTONS BAY

LAWN, 6-8:

7/6 -- Bob Roberts

7/13 -- Yankin Covers

BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU

TASTING ROOM LAWN:

7/7 -- Pinter Whitnick, 4-6:30

7/10 -- Dominic Fortuna, 6-8

7/14 -- Larry Perkins, 4-6:30

BROOMSTACK KITCHEN & TAPHOUSE, MAPLE CITY PATIO, 5:30-8:30:

7/9 -- Lars Cabot

7/10 -- Miriam Pico & Patrick Niemisto

7/11 -- Elizabeth Landry

CICCONE VINEYARD & WINERY, SUTTONS BAY

7/7 -- Jeff Socia, 2-4:30

7/11 -- Mark Daisy, 5-7:30

7/13 -- Nick Veine, 2-4:30

7/14 -- Luke Woltanski, 2-4:30

CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN, THOMPSONVILLE

KINLOCHEN PLAZA, 6-8:

7/6 – Izzy Wallace

7/10 -- Nick Vasquez

7/13 -- Dominic Fortuna

LEVEL4 LOUNGE, 8:30-10:30:

7/6 – Sean Kelly

7/7 – Drew Hale

7/10 -- Jim Hawley

7/11 -- Meg Gunia

7/12 -- Dave Barth

7/13 -- Christopher Winkelmann

7/14 -- Bill Frary

HOTEL EARL, CHARLEVOIX

7/6 -- Jesse Jefferson, 7:30-10:30

7/7 & 7/14 -- Zeke Clemons, 6:309:30

7/12 – Jeff Socia, 7:30-10:30

JORDAN INN, EAST JORDAN

7-9:

7/7 -- Loophole

7/13 -- Backroads Band

PEARL'S NEW ORLEANS KITCHEN, ELK RAPIDS

7/11 -- Craig Jolly, 6-9

SHORT'S BREW PUB, BELLAIRE BEER GARDEN:

7/6 -- Distant Stars, 7-9:30

7/12 -- Braxton Hicks & The Contractions, 6:30-7:30; Moss Manor, 7:30-10

7/13 -- Mega Weedge, 7-9:30

Leelanau & Benzie

WILD TOMATO, PATIO, 6-8:

7/6 – Rhett DuCouer

7/7 – Christopher Winkelmann

7/12 -- Tim Krause

7/13 -- Nick Vasquez

7/14 -- Sydni K

FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARD, CEDAR

7/7 -- Looking Forward: Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Tribute, 5-8

7/8 -- Pinter Whitnick, 4-7

7/11 -- North Coast Trio, 4-7

FURNACE STREET DISTILLERY, ELBERTA PATIO, 6-8:

7/6 – Jason Locke

7/7 – Keith Scott

7/11 – Aaron Dye

7/12 – Jerome Forde

7/13 -- Truck Driver Bingo

7/14 – Elizabeth Landry

HOP LOT BREWING CO., SUTTONS BAY

5-8:

7/8 -- Jameson Brothers

7/10 -- Jack Pine

7/12 -- The Dune Brothers

7/13 -- Chris Smith

IRON FISH DISTILLERY, THOMPSONVILLE

7/7 – The Fridays, 5-7

7/8 – Jesse Jefferson, 6-8

7/12 – Brian Curran, 6-8

7/13 – Frank & Cora, 6:30-8:30

7/14 – J&O Junction, 5-7

LAKE ANN BREWING CO.

7/6 -- Daydrinker's Series w/ Jim Crockett Band, 3-6; Chloe KimesNight 2, 7-10

7/9 -- New Third Coast, 6:30-9:30

7/10 -- Andre Villoch, 6:30-9:30

7/11 -- Drew Hale, 6:30-9:30

7/12 -- Happy Hour w/ Billy & The Kid, 3-6; Full Cord, 7-10

7/13 -- Daydrinker's Series w/ J&O Junction, 3-6; Snacks & Five, 7-10

NORTH COUNTRY KITCHEN & BAR, SUTTONS BAY PATIO:

Sun -- Jazz Brunch w/ Ron Getz & Ted Alan, 11am-2pm

SHORT'S PULL BARN, ELK RAPIDS

7/6 -- The Real Ingredients, 6:309:30

7/7 -- Highway North, 6:30-9:30

7/9 -- Petko, 6:30-9:30

7/10 -- Mulebone, 6:30-9:30

7/12 -- Jen Sygit, 6:30-9:30

7/13 -- Jazz Cabbage, 6:30-9:30 7/14 -- Pete Fetters, 4-7

SPARE KEY WINERY, CHARLEVOIX

7/11 -- Randy Reszka, 3-6

STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN, BOYNE CITY

7/6 – Crosscut Kings, 6:30

TOONIES RESTAURANT & BAR, BELLAIRE Sat -- Karaoke, 9-1

RIVER CLUB, GLEN ARBOR

7/6 -- Luke Woltanski the Dangerous Music Man, 2-5; Trillium Groove, 6-9

7/9 -- Jim Hawley, 5-8

7/11 – Rob Coonrod, 5-8

7/12 – Rebekah Jon, 5-8

7/13 – Larry Perkins, 2-5; Blake Kimmel Duo, 6-9

ST. AMBROSE CELLARS, BEULAH

7/6 – Zach Watson, 1-4; Steve Pichan, 5-8

7/7 – Jabo Bihlman, 3-6

7/9 – Luke Woltanski, 5-8

7/10 – Bill Frary, 5-8

7/11 – Wink, 5-8

7/13 – Jen Sygit, 1-4; Troy Graham, 5-8

7/14 – Jesse Jefferson, 3-6

SHADY LANE CELLARS, SUTTONS BAY

7/12 -- Friday Night Live w/ Highway North, 4-7

STORMCLOUD BREWING CO., FRANKFORT

6-8:

7/7 -- Ella Shreiner

7/11 -- The Luke Woltanski Duo

SUTTONS BAY CIDERS

7/7 -- Billy & The Kid w/ Drew Howard, 5:30-7

7/11 -- Trivia, 6:30-8

7/14 -- Steve & Barb, 5:30-8

THE CABBAGE SHED, ELBERTA

7/6 -- Todd & TJ, 6-9

7/9 -- Todd Aldrich, 6-9

7/10 -- Vinyl Vednesday w/ DJ TJ, 5-8

7/11 -- Open Mic Night, 7-9

7/12 -- Jake Frysinger, 5-8

7/13 -- Mulebone, 6-9

THE HOMESTEAD RESORT, GLEN ARBOR WHISKERS, 6-9:

7/6 – Jerome Ford

7/12 – Zack Watson

7/13 – Laura Thurston

lOGY

JULY 08 - JULY 14

BY ROB BREZSNY

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): As you charge into the upcoming period of self-reinvention, don’t abandon and forget about your past completely. Some of your old emotional baggage might prove useful and soulful. A few of your challenging memories may serve as robust motivators. On the other hand, it will be healthy to leave behind as much oppressive baggage and as many burdensome memories as possible. You are launching the next chapter of your life story! Travel as lightly as you can.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Some astrologers assert that Virgos are modest, humble, and reluctant to shine. But a Virgo New Yorker named Ashrita Furman provides contrary evidence. His main activity in life is to break records. He holds the Guinness world record for having broken the most Guinness world records. His first came in 1979, when he did 27,000 jumping jacks. Since then, he has set hundreds of records, including the fastest time running on stilts, the longest time juggling objects underwater, and the most times jumping rope on a pogo stick. I propose to make him your spirit creature for the coming weeks. What acts of bold self-expression are you ready to make, Virgo? What records are you primed to break?

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Libran author Diane Ackerman says, "We can’t enchant the world, which makes its own magic; but we can enchant ourselves by paying deep attention."

I’m telling you this, dear Libra, because you now have exceptional power to pay deep attention and behold far more than usual of the world’s magic. It's the Season of Enchantment for you. invite you to be daring and imaginative as you probe for the delightful amazements that are often hidden just below the surface of things. Imagine you have the superpower of X-ray vision.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If I’m reading the astrological omens correctly, you are in the midst of major expansion. You are reaching further, opening wider, and dreaming bigger. You are exploring frontiers, entertaining novel possibilities, and daring to transcend your limitations and expectations. And am cheering you on as you grow beyond your previous boundaries. One bit of advice: Some people in your life may find it challenging to follow you freely into your new territory. They may be afraid you’re leaving them behind, or they may not be able to adjust as fast as you wish. I suggest you give them some slack. Allow them to take the time they need to get accustomed to your growth.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Sagittarian actor Jeff Bridges has wise words for you to heed: “If you wait to get all the information you think you need before you act, you’ll never act because there’s an infinite amount of information out there.” I think this advice is especially apropos for you right now. Why? Because you will thrive on making strong, crisp decisions and undertaking strong, crisp actions. The time for pondering possibilities must give way to implementing possibilities.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): ): People may be attracted to you in the coming weeks because they unconsciously or not-sounconsciously want to be influenced, stirred up, and even changed by your presence. They hope you will be the catalyst or medicine they need. Or maybe they want you to provide them with help they haven’t been able to give themselves or get anywhere else. Please be aware that this may not always be a smooth and simple exchange. Some folks might be demanding. Others may absorb and integrate your effects in ways that are different from your intentions. But I still think it’s worthwhile for you to offer your best efforts. You could be a force for healing and benevolence.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Sometimes when gifts arrive in our lives, they are not recognized as gifts. We may even mistake them for obstacles. In a worst-case scenario, we reject and refuse them. I am keen on helping you avoid this behavior in the coming weeks, Aquarius. In the oracle you’re now reading, I hope to convince you to expand your definition of what gifts look like. I will also ask you to widen the range of where you search for gifts and

to enlarge your expectations of what blessings you deserve. Now please meditate on the following riddles: 1. a shadow that reveals the hidden light; 2. a twist that heals; 3. a secret that no longer wants to be secret; 4. a shy ally who will reward your encouragement; 5. a boon that’s barely buried and just needs you to scrape away the deceptive surface.

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): Lake Baikal in Russia is the world’s deepest, oldest, and largest lake by volume. It contains over 22 percent of the fresh surface water on the planet. I propose we make this natural marvel your prime symbol for the next 11 months. At your best, you, too, will be deep, fresh, and enduring. And like Lake Baikal, you will be exceptionally clear. (Its underwater visibility reaches 120 feet.) PS: Thousands of plant and animal species thrive in this vital hub. I expect you will also be a source of richly diverse life, dear Pisces.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): I trust that your intuition has been guiding you to slow down and disappear from the frenzied, agitated bustle that everyone seems addicted to. I hope you have afforded yourself the luxury and privilege of exulting in the thrill of doing absolutely nothing. Have you been taking long breaks to gaze lovingly up at the sky and listen to music that moves you to tears? Have you been studying the children and animals in your life to learn more about how to thrive on non-goal-oriented fun? Have you given your imagination permission to fantasize with abandon about wild possibilities? Homework: Name three more ways to fuel your self-renewal.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Actor Carrie Fisher put a strong priority on being both amusing and amused. For her, almost everything that happened was tolerable, even welcome, as long as it was entertaining. She said, “If my life wasn’t funny, it would just be true, and that’s unacceptable.” I recommend you experiment with those principles, Taurus. Be resourceful as you make your life as humorously interesting as possible. If you do, life will conspire to assist you in being extra amused and amusing.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Even though you and were both born under the sign of Cancer the Crab, I have a taboo against advising you to be like me. I love my life, but I’m not so naïve or arrogant as to think that what has worked for me will also work for you. Now, however, will make a temporary exception to my policy. Amazingly, the astrological omens suggest you will flourish in the coming weeks by being at least somewhat like me. Therefore, I invite you to experiment with being kind and sensitive, but also cheerfully irreverent and tenderly wild. Be on the lookout for marvels and miracles, but treasure critical thinking and rational analysis. Don't take things too personally or too seriously, and regard the whole world as a holy gift. Be gratefully and humbly in awe as you tune into how beautiful and wonderful you are.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Over 3,700 years ago, a craftsperson living in what’s now Israel fashioned a comb from an elephant’s tusk. It was a luxury item with two sides, one used to smooth hair tangles and the other to remove lice. On the handle of the ivory tool is an inscription: “May this tusk root out the lice of the hair and the beard." This is the oldest known sentence ever written in Canaanite, a language that created the world’s first alphabet. In some ways, then, this comb is a precious object. It is unspeakably ancient evidence of a major human innovation. In another way, it’s mundane and prosaic. I’m nominating the comb to be a symbol for your story in the coming weeks: a blend of monumental and ordinary. Drama may emerge from the routine. Breakthroughs may happen in the midst of everyday matters!

NORTHERN EXPRESS CLASSIFIEDS

CHARMING ELK RAPIDS HOME FOR SALE: See Zillow listing for 111 Chippewa St, Elk Rapids or joencolleen@comcast.net

COMPUTER PROBLEMS?: I can fix your computer, tablet, phone or tv and show how to use it. If it's time to replace I'll help you find the best device for your needs. I can come to your home or office. Call James Downer at Advent Tech, your hi-tech handyman. 231-492-2087

Grand Traverse Pipes & Drums 50th Anniversary: Join us as we celebrate 50 years of history in this Open To The Public event at Silver Spruce Brewing in Traverse City this July 20th from 4-7pm. Details on our Facebook page.

IS YOUR BOAT OPERATING SMOOTHLY?: Home Harbor Marine-Mobile Maintenance & Repair:231-313-7391 homeharbormarine.com

SEWING, ALTERATIONS, MENDING & REPAIRS. Maple City, Maralene Roush 231228-6248

NORTHWESTERN MICHIGAN COLLEGE IS HIRING NMC is hiring part-time, Adjunct Faculty Instructors. Openings include Culinary Arts & Baking at our Great Lakes Culinary Institute as well as Plumbing & HVAC Instructors in our technical division. Professional Experience Required. Apply today at nmc.edu/jobs (NMC is EOE www. nmc.edu/non-discrimination)