20 minute read
The Post-Prison Job Market
Michigan’s Offender Success programs aims to help parolees find jobs and housing
By Ross Boissoneau
Navigating life after prison can be tough, especially when job hunting. Many formerly incarcerated people face stigmas and hiring prejudice based on their past crimes, and Vice reports that “[a]ccording to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, one in three Americans— over 100 million people—have a criminal record that impedes them from finding gainful employment after incarceration.”
That’s where the Offender Success program, an outreach project of the Michigan Department of Corrections, comes in. The program is available to individuals on parole with the goal of helping them find jobs and housing, among other things, as a means to successfully reintegrate into society.
“Typically they get very little support,” says Jessica Willis of those who have a criminal background. Willis is the chief program officer at Networks Northwest, which oversees the program in this area. “We work with employers and help to place them.”
Willis says some prospective employers believe that such individuals are not trustworthy, have no work ethic, and are not safe. “That’s a risk you take with anyone,” she says. “These individuals have a parole agent, people working with them—they have a team behind them.”
“I did 17 years in prison,” says Christian Studabaker, who has gone through the program. “When I got out, my parole agent hooked me up with the program. We worked together for two years while I was on parole.”
Closing the Gap
The Offender Success program started in 2005 under Gov. Jennifer Granholm. At that point, the recidivism rate—those returning to prison after being paroled—was almost 50 percent, and the program was designed to reduce those numbers.
Willis says when the program started, they had to work to help employers see the value in it and the positives of the population. “There’s a stigma, especially for violent crimes. Those individuals are often incredibly motivated. They want to prove they are not their crimes.”
The program addresses mental health, housing, and training. It was piloted in different areas of the state, including Traverse City, and is now offered statewide with over 300 employees. One measure of its accomplishments thus far: The recidivism rate has dropped to 23 percent. (And locally it is even lower, at 22 percent.)
Willis says the success of the program can also be measured in terms of the individual’s success in landing work and keeping it. She says 85 percent of its subjects are employed in a full-time capacity, and they boast a 52 percent retention rate. “They’re still employed one year later,” she says, which is also about the state average.
Making Changes
Another way to highlight the importance of the Offender Success initiative comes from the stories of those who have worked with the program. Chris Cook says the program gave him some of the tools he needed to be successful in life and avoid the actions that landed him in prison.
“When you come out, 99.9 percent of it is on your mentality. You can make changes or make excuses,” he says. “I wanted change. I was tired of the drug scene, making the dumb decisions. It gave me someone to talk to.”
He says the day he was released, he began filling out online applications. But he decided he could present himself better in person, so he went into a local Taco Bell and told them he had been released from prison and needed a job. “I’d said I’d never work in the fast food industry, so I fought with my ego. I said, ‘I’ll do anything,’ and worked my way up.” He subsequently found work at a sawmill, then in maintenance, and now works for Grand Traverse Construction.
Cook also credits the program with helping him find housing. And things are continuing to go well: “I met a beautiful woman, and we’re engaged and buying her parents’ place.”
Studabaker similarly lauds the program. “The people were willing to help out. We built up some rapport. I wish I could still get help,” he says, as the program only extends to the time those in it are still on parole.
While Studabaker landed a job working with an outdoor lawn care company, he’s had a more difficult time finding housing and is currently renting a room. His experience points to another challenge for those who were incarcerated. “Every place I applied [for housing] went off credit. I didn’t have good credit,” he says.
A Skilled and Talented Pipeline Offender Success services are provided based on the parole agent’s referral, which may include but are not limited to the following: temporary transitional housing, housing supplies, on-the-job training, temporary work experience, work supplies, clothing assistance, public and private transportation assistance, and health and behavioral health services.
Willis says 90 percent of those released from prison are released on parole. The program is available to all of them as long as their parole lasts, and parolees meet with one of the program’s resource specialists, who create an individualized plan for each person.
The program has become more important than ever in the last few years, not just for the individuals using it but for employers, too. The Great Resignation has seen people leaving the workforce in record numbers, and many workforce experts have highlighted the untapped potential of hiring formerly incarcerated individuals. Brian Matthews, senior vice president at Appriss Insights, a division of Equifax dedicated to growth strategy and people-based risk, says hiring those with criminal records can be a win-win.
“Not only does it build a new talent pool of workers to help address the nation’s ongoing labor shortage head-on, but it also gives a second chance to those in need,” he told CNBC Make It, the website for NBC’s financial and business cable channel. “This movement provides a great opportunity to strengthen businesses and improve inclusiveness in the workplace.” saturday
That same article also points to the dearth of effort those in hiring positions typically make in reaching out to a segment that could provide a much-needed boost for companies looking to bolster their employee population. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, only five percent of managers and three percent of HR professionals actively recruit candidates with criminal records for open roles.
“This is a skilled and talented pipeline that can do the job and keep the job. They have support,” Willis concludes.
TC TRAIL RUNNING FESTIVAL: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, TC. The 100K & 100K Relay, 50K, 75K, 25K & 10K will be held today. tctrailrunningfestival. com/event-info
64TH ANNUAL MESICK MUSHROOM
FESTIVAL: May 12-14. Includes a flea market, car show, mud bogg, co-ed softball, parade & more. mesick-mushroomfest.org
NORTH MITTEN HALF MARATHON, 10K & 5K: Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. A combination of paved roads, dirt roads & trails. Half marathon: 8am; 10K: 8:30am; 5K: 9am; 1 Mile Fun Run: 11am. Prices range from $15$93. crystalmountain.com/event/north-mitten
29TH SUE DEYOUNG/JUDY EDGER MEMORIAL BREAST CANCER 5K WALK & RUN: 9am, East Park Pavilion, Downtown Charlevoix. $30. screenmaster.net/walkruncure/shop/home
MARKET AT THE PAVILION: 9am-noon, Veterans Park Pavilion, Boyne City. Includes live music with Rhett & John Duo from 10amnoon. boynecityfarmersmarket.org
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HICKORY MEADOWS VOLUNTEER
WORKBEE: 9am-noon, Hickory Meadows Natural Area; meet at Randolph St. Trailhead, TC. Help the Grand Traverse Conservation District staff plant native seedlings & pull invasive garlic mustard, in partnership with the Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network. Register. natureiscalling.org/events
MADE IN CHEBOYGAN CRAFT SHOW: 9am-5pm, Washington Park, Cheboygan. Featuring a large assortment of crafters selling jewelry, home decor, pottery, clothing, toys, kitchen essentials, custom printed shirts & mugs, & more. For vendor info, email: madeincheboygan@gmail.com. facebook.com/madeincheboygan
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SPRING ART MARKET: 9:30am-4pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Celebrate spring & moms with fun museum programming & over 20 Michigan artists selling their work indoors in a range of media from painting, printmaking, mixed media & ceramics to glass, metal, fiber, wood & jewelry. Parking is free in the DMC lot & throughout NMC’s campus. Free. shop.dennosmuseum.org/2023-springart-market
BABY’S BREATH WORKBEE AT ELBERTA BEACH: 10am-noon, Elberta Beach. Join ISN & the GT Regional Land Conservancy to remove invasive baby’s breath. Please bring work gloves. Long pants & close-toed shoes are recommended because there is poison ivy around the beach. Meet at the Elberta Beach parking lot. Free. habitatmatters.org/ babys-breath-workbees.html
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CREATE HANDMADE BOOKS USING
GELLI PRINTING: 10am-noon, Interlochen Public Library. Instructor Pam Yee will demonstrate how to create colorful pages with this popular method of printmaking. Info: 231276-6767. Free.
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FREE DROP-IN FAMILY ART: 10am-noon, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Cornwell Gallery, TC. Fun art activity inspired by exhibit in the gallery. crookedtree.org/class/ctac-traversecity/free-drop-family-art-may
MOTHER’S DAY CRAFT EVENT: Bellaire Public Library. Stop in between 10am - noon to create a planting pot out of folded news- paper & plant seeds. Free. bellairelibrary.org
WALK & TALK THROUGH SWIMMING & THE BIRDS ARE WATCHING: 11am, Glen Arbor Arts Center. Glen Arbor Arts Center Gallery Manager Sarah Bearup-Neal leads a conversational walking tour of the SWIMMING and The Birds Are Watching exhibits. BearupNeal talks about how the exhibiting artists interpreted the SWIMMING exhibition’s theme, both literally & symbolically; tools & materials used; as well as other insights into their creative process. The Birds Are Watching is a selection of mixed-media paintings by Benzie County artist Jessica Kovan. Jessica uses birds as a meditation on climate change. Free. glenarborart.org/events-page/events-all
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IRISH IMMIGRANTS IN MICHIGAN: A HISTORY IN STORIES: 11:30am, Cadillac Wexford Public Library. Pat Commins of Dublin, Ireland & Elizabeth Rice of Michigan have compiled true stories of Irish immigrants who came to Michigan in the 19th century. cadillaclibrary.org
BARTER FAIR: Noon, Grow Benzie, Benzonia. Enjoy an afternoon of swapping, trading & upcycling. Meet the person whose trash is your treasure & make a trade. The only rule: Money won’t get you anything. Free. growbenzie.org/events/2023/5/13/barter-fair -
ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION: 1-4pm, Petoskey Winter Sports Park. Celebrate spring & the city’s designation as a Tree City. Kids’ arts & crafts, scavenger hunt, speakers, tree climbing demonstration & more.
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BLESSING OF THE BLOSSOMS: St. Joseph Catholic Church, TC. 1pm: Ceremony. 1:30pm: Reception; free slice of Sara Lee pie. 2pm: Requested Blessing of Orchards & Vineyards.
MICHIGAN BREWERS GUILD’S 2ND ANNUAL SPRING BEER FESTIVAL: 1-6pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. An outdoor celebration of Michigan beer. Featuring hundreds of local beers from many of Michigan’s breweries. Food available for purchase. Must be 21. Tickets: $50 + service fees in advance; $60 day of, if available. mibeer.com/Events/spring-beer-festival
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MOTHER-DAUGHTER AFTER HOURS
PARTY: 5:30-8pm, Interlochen Public Library. Enjoy food, games & fun. Diverse activities will encourage problem-solving, skill-building, & relaxation to help you & your girl(s) have fun & connect. Registration encouraged: 231-276-6767. Free.
“STEEL MAGNOLIAS”: 7pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Theater, Petoskey. Presented by Little Traverse Civic Theater. $20 adults; $10 students 18 & under. app.arts-people. com/index.php?actions=4&p=3
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AN EVENING WITH ABRA BERENS & FRIENDS: 7pm, Old Art Building, Leland. A fundraiser for the Leland Township Library. Renowned chef & cookbook author Abra Berens will introduce her newest book, “Pulp: A Practical Guide to Cooking with Fruit,” & engage in a conversation with local fruit growers Gene Garthe, Nikki Rothwell & Pete Laing, all of whom are featured in the book. $100; $150 for VIP tickets. lelandlibrary.org
“SOMETHING ROTTEN”: 7:30pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. In the 1590s, brothers Nick & Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” $28 adults; $15 youth under 18, plus fees. oldtownplayhouse.com/performances/mainstage/something-rotten.html
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ARIEL STRING QUARTET: 7:30pm, Cheboygan Opera House. Formed when they were just teenagers in Israel, the Ariel Quartet has been playing together for more than twenty years. Currently the Quartet serves as the Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. Their program includes works by Beethoven & Schubert. $30; $25 veterans; free for students. ci.ovationtix.com/36618/production/1151534
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CANTICUM NOVUM: 7:30pm, Church in the Hills, Bellaire. NMC’s a capella chorus under the direction of Jeff Cobb will perform the program, “Music of Love and Loss,” including the music of Brahms, Rutter & more. $15 suggested donation.
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COMEDY W/ NICK LEYDORF: 7:30-9pm, Traverse City Comedy Club, TC. This comedian/lawyer has been described as “funny, adorable, and non-threatening.” $25-$30. mynorthtickets.com/events/comedy-wnickleydorf-5-12-2023
MESICK MUSHROOM FESTIVAL 5K GLOW RUN: 7:30pm, Northern Exposures Campground, Mesick. This run will start at the covered picnic area, located just north of the parking area. You will run alongside the Manistee River & proceed onto the trail. The trail is winding & hilly with several roots. Your final part of the run is along the Manistee River on a paved campground road. $15$40. mesick-mushroomfest.org/Run.html
TRAVERSE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAAN EVENING WITH BOB JAMES: 7:30pm, City Opera House, TC. A concert honoring jazz legend Bob James playing his most beloved tunes with the Traverse Symphony Jazz Orchestra. $25.50 - $61.50. traversesymphony.org/concert/bob-james/?mc_ cid=9e8d71241b&mc_eid=36a666ea46 ----------------------
APRIL WINE & THE LEGENDARY LITA FORD: SOLD OUT: 8-10:30pm, Little River Casino Resort, Manistee. lrcr.com/eventcalendar/concerts/april-wine-and-the-legendary-lita-ford
Sunday
64TH ANNUAL MESICK MUSHROOM FESTIVAL: (See Sat., May 13)
BIRDWATCHING: 8am, Michigan Legacy Art Park, Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. Join Michigan Legacy Art Park’s Executive Director & birding guide Angie Quinn on a birdwatching hike through the Art Park. Bring binoculars if able. Meet at the trailhead. $5 entry fee per adult; ages 17 & under, free. crystalmountain.com/event/birdwatching-may ----------------------
MADE IN CHEBOYGAN CRAFT SHOW: (See Sat., May 13, except today’s times are 10am-3pm.)
CREATIVITY Q+A LIVE WITH BLACKSMITH SCOTT LANKTON: 1pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center. Leelanau County artist/blacksmith Scott Lankton talks about his practice with Sarah Bearup-Neal, GAAC gallery manager. Lankton was hooked on hot steel the first time he worked with it. He went on to find a vocation in the forge, pounding metal into domestic objects. Lankton also found that this old art + craft form can be put to use in the pursuit of peace, & be a way of raising awareness about gun violence. Free. glenarborart.org/events/ creativity-qa-live-with-blacksmith-scott-lankton
“SOMETHING ROTTEN”: (See Sat., May 13, except today’s time is 2pm.)
“STEEL MAGNOLIAS”: (See Sat., May 13, except today’s time is 2pm.) ----------------------
HONORING OUR HEROES & HEROINES: AN AFTERNOON OF SYMPHONIC MUSIC BY ENCORE WINDS: 3pm, First Congregational Church, TC. An afternoon of powerful symphonic music chosen to honor our national heroes & our personal heroines: our mothers. $10/person; students free. encorewinds.org
TRAVERSE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA monday
- AN EVENING WITH BOB JAMES: (See Sat., May 13, except today’s time is 3pm.)
PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES IN ART: 9:3010:15am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, TC. Drop in for hands-on fun for preschoolers & their grown-ups. Early registration encouraged. $5. crookedtree.org/class/ctac-traverse-city/preschool-adventures-art-may-15
KID’S CRAFT LAB: FAIRY STICKS: 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Decorate your own special stick to put in your backyard to attract the fairies. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org
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MSU FOOD PRESERVATION WORKSHOP: 1pm, Grow Benzie, Benzonia. Kara Lynch, food safety educator with Michigan State University, will provide a basic food preservation workshop to learn the how-to’s of food preservation safety, canning, & connect registered individuals to additional preservation resources. Registration is limited to 20 attendees. Free-will donation. growbenzie.org/events/2023/5/15/ msu-food-preservation-workshop
DDA MEET & GREET: 5:30-7pm, Terrain Restaurant, Downtown Bellaire. Meet the current board members of the Village of Bellaire Downtown Development Authority. 231313-1517. Free.
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BAD AXE FREE SCREENING: 6pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Winner of the 2022 Critics’ Choice Documentary Award for Best First Doc Feature & the TCFF Audience Award for Best Feature Film, BAD AXE captures a closely-knit Asian American family living in rural Michigan during the pandemic as they fight to keep their local restaurant & American dream alive. Before the film, enjoy light refreshments in the Dennos Sculpture Court. Then, head to Milliken Auditorium for brief remarks with the film to follow. Register. simpletix.com/e/badaxe-free-screening-tickets-129809 ----------------------
SEAN GASKELL: 7pm, Glen Lake Library, Empire. Sean will perform traditional songs on the kora, a 21 stringed West African harp. He has studied under the tutelage of traditional kora masters in Brikama, Gambia over multiple extended visits. glenlakelibrary.net ----------------------
MONDAY NIGHT MOVIE: 7:30pm, Bay View Association, Voorhies Hall, Petoskey. bayviewassociation.org/events/mondaynight-movie tuesday
PRESCHOOL STORY
TIME: 10:30am, Suttons Bay-Bingham District Library. Stories, songs, & active fun. Free. sbbdl.org ----------------------
STORYTIME ADVENTURES: 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Featuring “If You Were My Baby” by Frank Hodgkins. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org
SKEGEMOG RAPTOR CENTER: 6pm, Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall, Elk Rapids. See a bird of prey up close. Hear stories about what makes these beautiful birds so unique, & learn about how you can help protect local wildlife. Event is hosted by the Elk Rapids Rotary Club. Free.
CLIMATE CHANGE: 6:30pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Chris Edwards, retired meteorologist, will talk about climate change as of 2023. His program will be a verifiable fact-based look at the scientific state of the issues & impacts involved in climate change, localized in many ways to Michigan. Free. tadl.org/climatechange ----------------------
CHEBOYGAN HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR: 7pm, Cheboygan Opera House. Enjoy the Spring Concert of the Cheboygan Area High School Choir, under the direction of Kevin Wells. Free. theoperahouse.org
GRAND TRAVERSE HIKING CLUB MAY
MEETING: 7pm, Boardman River Nature Center, parking lot, TC. Enjoy a hike on the trails around the Boardman River Nature Center. You will head north on the trails for about an hour, & then head back. It will be about a 3-4 mile round trip. natureiscalling. org/boardman-river-nature-center ----------------------
QUEER TALES BOOK CLUB: AFTERPAR-
TIES: 7pm, Traverse Area District Library, Nelson Room, TC. Chat about books that are by &/or about LGBTQ+ people. Reading is not required. This month’s book is “Afterparties” by Anthony Veasna So. Free. tadl. org/event/queertales-may2023 wednesday
CONNECTING WITH CHANGEMAKERS: 8:3010:30am, Traverse Area District Library, TC. Network with other nonprofit, business, & community leaders, & create relationships with those who share your passion for making a positive impact in the community. Featuring Sakura Takano, CEO of Rotary Charities, & Michelle Howard, director of the Traverse Area District Library. RSVP. eventbrite. com/e/connecting-with-changemakers-tickets580707440587?utm_campaign=66e47cfa7fEMAIL_CAMPAIGN_5_03_23_ COPY_01&utm_term=0_9290401f3e-66e47cfa7f-251252261&utm_source=Resources+fo
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SPRING WILDFLOWERS AT PETE’S
WOODS: 10am, Arcadia Dunes, Pete’s Woods. Join leader Paula Dreeszen, GTRLC steward for a field trip to Arcadia Dunes at Pete’s Woods to look for spring wildflowers. Register. Free. gtrlc.org/recreation-events/events
STONE SOUP: 3-6pm, Leelanau Montessori Public School, Lake Leelanau. Slurp soup, warm up by a bonfire, join in the games & wander the grounds while listening to student storytellers & live music by local band Us Up Here. 231-994-2074. $10; 12 & under, free.
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CHILLIN’ WITH THE HARBOR SPRINGS CHAMBER OFFICE - ON THE ROAD: 4-6pm, Colonial Inn, Wequetonsing. High Five Spirits will provide specialty cocktails & Beth Wemigwase from the Harbor Springs Area Historical Society will talk about historical Inns in the area. Free. harborspringschamber.com/events/details/chillin-with-thechamber-office-2023-colonial-inn-12124
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RIDE OF SILENCE: 5pm, TC. Presented by the Cherry Capital Cycling Club to inform motorists, police & city officials that cyclists have a legal right to public roadways. Ride also honors those who have been killed or injured. 3.2 mile ride. Starts & ends at The Little Fleet. Registration, 5-6pm, with cyclists setting out single-file after a brief talk. cherrycapitalcyclingclub.org
PETOSKEY REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: 5:30-7:30pm, Trovato at Hidden River Casting Club, Brutus. Enjoy networking, appetizers, prizes & more. Bring your business cards. $10 Chamber members; $15 not-yet members. petoskeychamber.com ----------------------
MICHIGAN AUTHOR JEFF VANDE ZAN-
DE: “AN INCOMPLETE HISTORY OF DYSTOPIAN LITERATURE”: 6:30pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. This Delta College professor & award-winning author offers a brief presentation on some of the history of the dystopian genre in literature, followed by a reading from his book, Rules of Order. Free. tadl.org/dystopian
CLIMATE CHANGE 2023 SIMPLE SERIOUS SOLVABLE: 7pm, Leelanau Township Library, Northport. Retired meteorologist, Chris Edwards, will talk about climate change as of 2023, simple, serious & solvable. His program will be a verifiable fact-based look at the scientific state of the issues & impacts involved in climate change, localized in many ways to Michigan. We will explore a range of ideas to address the significant challenges we face, including what each of us can do. Free. leelanautownshiplibrary.org/news-events/lib-cal/climatechange-as-of-2023-simple-serious-solvable
COMEDY AT THE CASTLE: 7-8:30pm, Castle Farms, Charlevoix. Featuring Cam Rowe, a reality TV personality, stand-up comedian, & failed basketball star from Southfield, MI; & Dustin Cole, who has worked with Saturday Night legends Chris Kattan & Victoria Jackson, 80’s movie icon Bobcat Goldthwait, & is a regular & fan favorite on the Darren McCarty Slapstick Comedy Tour! Recommended for ages 18+. Includes light appetizers before & during the show, & 1918 Cellars wine available for purchase. $45. castlefarms.com/ events/comedy-at-the-castle
HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSE: FROM THE BIG BANG TO RECENT HISTORY W/ NOMAC: 7:30pm, Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Mackinaw City. Trace the history of the universe from the big bang through the formation of the first atoms, to stars & the first galaxies. Then on to the galaxy, the Milky Way, the formation of the solar system & finally the earth. Free. midarkskypark.org/programs-events
Thur Sday
KID’S CRAFT LAB: FAIRY STICKS: (See Mon., May 15) --------------
SCORE WORKSHOP: FINANCING WITH BANKS: Noon, Traverse Area District Library, TC. You will learn some ins & outs to make obtaining a business loan easier to understand. Michael Caruso, senior vice president, commercial banking officer at Nicolet National Bank, will be the presenter. Register. Free. score.org/traversecity/event/financing-banks
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63RD ANNUAL NATIONAL MOREL MUSHROOM FESTIVAL: Boyne City, May 18-21. Today includes the Schmidt Amusements Carnival from 3-10pm & Music & Karaoke Party from 5-9pm, both in Veterans Park. bcmorelfestival.com/schedule-of-events.html
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EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS COMMUNITY EXPO: 3:30-5:30pm, Otsego Resort, Gaylord. Community businesses, nonprofits, emergency responders, & government agencies will be on hand to offer vital information to help individuals & families prepare for future disasters & emergencies.
CLIMATE CHANGE AS OF 2023: SIMPLE, SERIOUS, SOLVABLE: 4pm, Bellaire Public Library. A fact-based look at the scientific state of the issues & impacts involved in climate change, localized in many ways to Michigan.
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FLYING CLOVERS’ HOMING PIGEONS: 4:30pm, Petoskey District Library. Learn from Mike Netzky & the 4-Hers about how pigeons love to fly. The program will take place at the library’s outdoor labyrinth with the pigeons’ loft set up along Waukazoo Ave. Free. petoskeylibrary.org/en/index.aspx
ANTRIM ART GATHER: 6-8pm, Short’s Brew Pub, Bellaire. Held with Two Hoots
Studio. You are welcome to bring your own painting in progress & supplies.
DIET CULTURE DROPOUT CLUB: 6-7:30pm, Higher Grounds Coffee, GT Commons, TC. Join for community building, laughter, venting & zero diet talk! Enjoy a safe space for people in all bodies to connect as you actively deconstruct & unlearn the pervasive messages of diet culture. Free. headandhearttc.com/ events-1/2023/4/12/diet-culture-drop-out-club
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“STEEL MAGNOLIAS”: (See Sat., May 13)
“SOMETHING ROTTEN”: (See Sat., May 13)
Friday
MORE TO EXPLORE: 9:30am, noon & 2:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Children will experiment with blowing soap bubbles. greatlakeskids.org
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63RD ANNUAL NATIONAL MOREL MUSHROOM FESTIVAL: Boyne City, May 18-21. Today includes an Arts & Crafts Show & food trucks from noon-6pm, free Morel Seminar at 3:30pm, Morelfest Wine & Dine, The Tropic Brothers Live, & more. bcmorelfestival.com/ schedule-of-events.html
LUNCHTIME TAI CHI AT THE LIBRARY: Noon, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Enjoy an introduction to Tai Chi, a systematic & gentle form of exercise & stretching. Free. tadl.org/events ----------------------
A CELEBRATION OF WOMEN IN FIBER
ART: 5-8pm, Tinker Studio, TC. Join Tinker Studio for their first Artist Reception of the 2023 Summer Season as they celebrate several talented local fiber artists. Enjoy an artist demonstration by macrame’ & macraweave artist, Lisa Pucelik, while you mingle with fellow artists & art appreciators. Seasonal sips & nibbles will be offered. Free. facebook.com/ events/601026115253825?acontext=%7B% 22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22m echanism%22%3A%22calendar_tab_event %22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookma rk_calendar%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_typ
33RD ZOO-DE-MACK: The Highlands at Harbor Springs. Registration will be held tonight from 6-11pm in the Lobby below Zoo Barr. A Kick-Off Party will be held in the Zoo Bar at 8pm. zoo-de-mack.com ----------------------
“STEEL MAGNOLIAS”: (See Sat., May 13)
BAND AID: 7-9pm, NCMC, Gymnasium, Petoskey. Enjoy jazz & steel drum favorites performed by the award winning Petoskey Band Program. Band students grades 6-12 will perform. There will be a silent auction & concessions. This is a fundraising event to support Petoskey Bands. Tickets available at entrance. $10 per person; $30 family of four.
“SOMETHING ROTTEN”: (See Sat., May 13)
FRESHWATER CONCERTS PRESENTS
MARTIN SEXTON: 8pm, Freshwater Art Gallery & Concert Venue, Boyne City. Enjoy this singer-songwriter who is “the real thing.” Tickets: 231-582-2588. $55. facebook.com/
FRESHWATERARTGALLERY saturday
33RD ZOO-DE-MACK: A weekend of huge parties with great bands, a super scenic bicycle ride, views of the Mackinac Bridge, parties on Mackinac Island & more. Today’s schedule includes: Registration in the lobby below The Zoo Bar at The Highlands at Harbor Springs from 7:30-10:30am; the bicycle ride starting between 7:30-10:30am at The Highlands in the Ski Area Parking Lot; lunch at Legs Inn, Cross Village between 10:30am-2pm; Post Ride Party - noon-5pm at The Crossings, Mackinaw City. Tonight there will be parties on Mackinac Island. https://zoo-de-mack.com/
63RD ANNUAL NATIONAL MOREL
MUSHROOM FESTIVAL: Boyne City, May 18-21. Today includes a Community Breakfast, the 63rd Annual National Competitive Morel Mushroom Hunt, Painting in the Park with Dan, Taste of Morels, Great Morel Giveaway, 63rd Motherload Bash w/ The Family Tradition Band, & more. bcmorelfestival. com/schedule-of-events.html
ALPEN-CAR SHOW: 8am-3pm, Otsego County Sportsplex, Gaylord. A fundraiser for Alpenfest. Awards, food trucks, music & fun.
FREE PANCAKES FOR TORNADO SURVIVORS: 8am, Otsego County Fire Department, Gaylord. Survivors of the 05.20.2022 tornado are invited to an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. otsegofoundation.org/long-termrecovery-group
FREE WRITING WORKSHOP WITH AUTHOR HEATHER SHUMAKER: 9-10:30am, Interlochen Public Library. Learn more about the world of children’s books, from writing to publishing. 231-276-6767.
SPRING STEWARDSHIP DAY: 9am, Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. Trail grooming, garden weeding, window shining & more. Please bring a pair of gloves. Register: stewardship@grassriver.org. grassriver.org
SWEETWATER EVENING GARDEN CLUB
PLANT SALE & GARDEN CRAFTS: 9am1pm, Bayside Park, Acme. Shop for perennial flowers, herbs, ferns, veggie plants, & garden crafts. 938-9611. Free. ----------------------
TVC5K - RUN THE RUNWAY: 9am, Cherry Capital Airport, TC. Benefits the Wings of Mercy West Michigan & The Grand Traverse YMCA. $38. runsignup.com/Race/MI/TraverseCity/TVC5K?aflt_token=vkmwDmweQ 4iCYn8otSOOnKQ3vCO8buOw
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2023 TRAVERSE CITY STROLL FOR EPILEPSY™: 10am, Clinch Park, TC. In-person & virtual adult participants (ages 12+): $25. In-person & virtual child participants (ages 2 -11): $15. In-person & virtual infant participants (ages 1 & under): free. epilepsymichigan.org/stroll
ANNUAL NATIVE PLANT SALE: 10am-noon, Boardman River Nature Center, TC. Over 70 species of Michigan native flowers, ferns, & grasses. natureiscalling.org/native-plant-sale
GREAT LAKES CHILDREN’S MUSEUM’S WATER SAFETY DAY: Great Lakes Children’s Museum, outside, TC. See a real Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter up close, learn about different types of lifejackets & how to wear them, run sinking boat drills, learn about swim safety & CPR with the Red Cross, & much more. Free; does not Include Museum admission. greatlakeskids.org/join-us-for-water-safety-day
OTSEGO COUNTY FAIR MCLA LAMB
SHOW: 10am, Otsego County Fairgrounds, Gaylord. otsegocountyfair.com/2023-mclalamb-show ----------------------
CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW: 10am-3pm, The Village at GT Commons, Historic Front Lawn, TC. This is a free event & great for all ages. thevillagetc.com
PETOSKEY SPRING ART & CRAFT
SHOW: 10am-5pm, Emmet County Fairgrounds, Petoskey. festivalnet.com/90294/ Petoskey-Michigan/Craft-Shows/PetoskeySpring-Art-Craft-Show
SPRING BIRDING: 10am-noon, Greenwood Foundation - Windswept Entrance, Wolverine. Must pre-register. Free. landtrust.org/events
SPANISH MEETUP: 10:30am, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Practice Spanish. RSVP: lstarsoneck47@gmail.com.
GAYLORD COLOR FOR A CURE
5K: 11am. Starts & ends at the Pavilion on Court, Gaylord. $35 + $3.10 signup fee. runsignup.com/Race/MI/Gaylord/ GaylordColoredForACure?aflt_token=vkmwD mweQ4iCYn8otSOOnKQ3vCO8buOw
TSO AT THE LIBRARY: SUZUKI STUDENT
PERFORMANCE: 1pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Enjoy a performance by Suzuki students. Families welcome & encouraged. Free. tadl.org/events
FREE COMMUNITY MOVIE NIGHT: 6:30pm, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, TC. Featuring “Sing.” Feel free to wear your PJs. bethlehemtc.org/community-movie-night
“STEEL MAGNOLIAS”: (See Sat., May 13)
“SOMETHING ROTTEN”: (See Sat., May 13) sunday
PETOSKEY SPRING ART & CRAFT SHOW: (See Sat., May 20)
10TH ANNUAL SPRING
PUMPKIN PEDAL: 11:30am-2pm, Old Mission Peninsula. Starts at 11:30am. Choose from the 40-mile full Peninsula ride, the 20-mile Lighthouse ride, or the 7.5-mile family friendly ride. Free; suggested $10 donation. traversetrails.org/event/spring-pumpkin-pedal/?mc_ cid=d87e0459fb&mc_eid=df24b9efb4
63RD ANNUAL NATIONAL MOREL MUSHROOM FESTIVAL: Boyne City, May 18-21. Today includes Paint & Sip with Duncan Studios, Arts & Crafts Show, & more. bcmorelfestival.com/schedule-of-events.html
“SOMETHING ROTTEN”: (See Sat., May 13, except today’s time is 2pm.)
BARN RED MOVIE AT THE BAY THEATRE: 4pm, The Bay Theatre, Suttons Bay. Michigan Made filmmaker Richard Brauer’s story of a farmer who protects his cherished farm from developers through land conservation. $15 per person or $10 per member. thebaytheatre.com/special-events
JORDAN VALLEY COMMUNITY BAND’S SPRING CONCERT: 4pm, East Jordan Middle/High School, Community Auditorium. Music from the 60’s is the theme. ----------------------
THE GREAT LAKES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRESENTS THE HUMMEL TRIO W/ MAESTRO LIBOR ONDRAS: 4pm, First Presbyterian Church of Harbor Springs. The Hummel Trio is an ensemble-in-residence at Grand Rapids Community College department of music. Free. glcorchestra.org
FACULTY & GUEST ARTIST RECITAL: 7pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Music Center 1010. With Ara Sarkissian, Mike Ouzounian, & Evelyn Elsing. Free. interlochen.org/events/ faculty-and-guest-artist-recital-ara-sarkissianmike-ouzounian-and-evelyn-els-2023-05-21
Presents
by Joseph Beyer
