Northern Express - September 25, 2023

letters CONTENTS feature

Northern Express is a communitycentered paper that covers local people, places, entertainment, and news. We invite letters to the editor that also address issues in northern Michigan, whether that’s local policies, changes in your community, art and education, or hot topics like housing, tourism, or the environment (just to name a few). If it touches northern Michigan, it is something we want to share! We also welcome letters “in conversation” with any stories, columns, and other letters published in Northern Express. Letters must be civil, 300 words or fewer, and submitted no more than once per month per person. Letters will be edited for clarity, and letters or portions may be omitted due to space or issues with questionable facts/citations or privacy. We do not print letters that have been sent to or published in other media. To have your letter included, please provide your full name and city of residence in northern Michigan.

Publisher: Luke Haase PO Box 4020 Traverse City, Michigan 49685 Phone: (231) 947-8787 Fax: 947-2425 email: info@northernexpress.com www.northernexpress.com

Editor: Jillian Manning

Finance Manager: Libby Shutler

Distribution Manager: Roger Racine Sales: Lisa Gillespie, Kaitlyn Nance, Michele Young, Todd Norris, Abby Walton Porter, Caroline Bloemer For ad sales in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne & Charlevoix, call (231) 838-6948

Creative Director: Kyra Cross Poehlman

Distribution: Joe Evancho, Sarah Rodery Roger Racine, Gary Twardowski Charlie Brookfield, Rachel Cara Listings Editor: Jamie Kauffold

Contributors: Ross Boissoneau, Ren Brabenec, Alexandra Dailey, Anna Faller, Stephen Tuttle

top ten

Celebrate the Harvest in Boyne City

Welcome to the season of harvest festivals! The days are getting shorter, the nights (and days) cooler, and it’s time for what remains in the fields to make its way to your shopping basket. Boyne City is getting us started with their annual event in downtown packed with fall produce, music, an arts and crafts fair, and activities for the whole family. There’s even a scarecrow contest for those who want to show off their fall farm talents! The Boyne City Farmers Market will set up shop at Water and Lake streets to show off their wares, which includes apples, carrots, broccoli, mums, pumpkins, squash, apple butter, jam, honey, and fresh apple cider. Local businesses, artists, and nonprofits will also be on hand throughout the event. The fourblock festival kicks off at 9am and runs to 3pm on Saturday, Sept. 30. Learn more at boynecityfarmersmarket.org/events.

2 tastemaker

Oaky’s Tavern’s Spicy Chicken & Cheddar Sandwich

Need a little fall warm-up? No, we’re not talking about soup—at least not yet. But the Spicy Chicken & Cheddar sandwich ($13) at Oaky’s Tavern in Grawn will certainly light a little fire in your belly. This handheld starts with juicy and crispy Southern fried chicken alongside a helping of thick-cut bacon. (It’s cooked just right too—no shattering or sad, limp bacon slices here.) The spice comes from the sriracha mayo, but is tempered with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. The hearty sandwich is almost worthy of two meals and comes with a side of Great Lakes Potato Chips, though you can swap for fries, sweet potato fries, tots, or onion rings—each just an additional $2. Our favorite way to enjoy this sandwich is on the patio right before an Interlochen show, but you’ll have to get there early to beat the crowds. Find Oaky’s Tavern at 9205 US-31 in Grawn. (231) 276-6244; oakystavern.com

Cruisin’ the Breezeway

Fall into East Jordan during the 15th Annual Autumn on the Breezeway! Choose from three different dates: Sept. 30, Oct. 7, and Oct. 14. You’ll start in Atwood at Royal Farms & Cellars from 10am-noon. Hit the corn maze, take a hayride, and enjoy pumpkins, apples, and wine. Then drive the 26-mile Breezeway from Atwood through Ellsworth and East Jordan, passing through Deer Lake to Boyne Falls. End at Boyne Mountain where they offer chairlift rides, the SkyBridge, and more. (Bonus: Catch the Fall Fest at East Jordan Tourist Park and the Jordan River Fall Raft Excursion starting at Jordan Valley Outfitters on Sept. 30.)

Hey, read It! The Graveyard Shift 4

When we meet 20-something Tinsel Munroe, she’s still patiently waiting for her big break. Though she’s managed to secure a position hosting her own radio program—a late-night horror-cinema show appropriately named The Graveyard Shift—Tinsel has yet to see prime-time airwaves, and the ungodly hours are starting to strain her relationship with boyfriend, Zack. That is, until a devoted listener is murdered in cold blood on the air. As the investigation unfolds, Tinsel finally gets her spotlight—incited by the antics of her true crime blog-writing sister, Pandora—but, even the quietest corners of suburban Melbourne are no longer safe. As the bodies start to pile up, can Tinsel (and one attractive detective) find her connection to the killer before it’s too late? From best-selling author and screenwriter Maria Lewis comes the cheeky thriller The Graveyard Shift. Perfect for your 2023 Halloween read, this book is a screamin’ good time…but be sure to keep the lights on!

Photo credit: Thomas Mann

It may not be “spooky szn” (as the kids call it) just yet, but it does seem like it might be scarecrow szn. The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is hosting a scarecrow building day for the family on Sunday, Oct. 1, from 12-4pm, and they challenge you to channel your creative side! The Botanic Garden will provide the straw, burlap, and frames, and you get to bring the clothes, accessories, and other decorations with you to create your own unique scarecrow friend. Attendees will vote on their favorite design—with a grand prize of a year-long membership to the garden—and there will be a hidden scarecrow to find on the grounds, with a special gift from the Visitor’s Center to the lucky person who finds it. The scarecrows will decorate the garden through Nov. 1, at which point they will be recycled. Family registration is $10 (plus a $2.51 fee) through Eventbrite, and cider and donuts will be available at the Pavilion for participants. Get your tickets and all the details at thebotanicgarden.org/events.

New Course for Certified Nursing Assistants

North Central Michigan College (NCMC) is introducing its first Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program this October. The program—a two-week course taught by certified nursing staff—comes as part of a new partnership between the Petoskey community college and Bay Bluffs Emmet County Medical Care Facility, a community-based, long-term care facility. Their collaboration will include several other certified and licensed healthcare programs, many of which will be offered through NCMC’s Lifelong Learning Club (ncmclifelonglearning.com). The two organizations aim to address staffing healthcare shortages in the region, specifically as the demand for long-term nursing care grows. “We are more than thrilled about the NCMC partnership,” Bay Bluffs Administrator Lisa Ashley, MSW, LNHA, said in a press release. “It is an enormous step in building workforce capacity.” Learn more and see upcoming courses at baybluffs.org/career-opportunities.

Stuff We Love: Pups on Campus

Traverse City West Senior High has brought on a very good boy as their newest staff member for the 2023-24 school year. Meet Gus, a certified therapy dog who spends his working hours in the school’s Library Media Center, doing his best to bring smiles and snuggles to students. (And to earn an A+ in all of his interactions.) West isn’t the first school to bring a canine into the fold; both TC Central and Traverse City High School have also been lucky to count therapy and comfort dogs among their ranks over the years. In addition to being general morale boosters, therapy dogs are shown to help kids and teens build confidence, reduce anxiety, improve moods, and create connections between students and teachers alike. Sounds like a win all around. Here’s hoping Gus gets lots of pets (and treats) for his hard work!

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BLOCKBUSTER AUTHOR KEN FOLLETT!!!

The grand master of gripping fiction is zooming in from the UK to join the National Writers Series in conversation with guest host Pat Livingston, news director at UpNorth Live TV 7&4. In his new book, No. 1 International Bestseller KEN FOLLETT returns to Kingsbridge with an epic tale of revolution and a cast of unforgettable characters. It brings a new perspective to the seismic shifts that shook the world in nineteenth-century Europe.

Join the livestream on Sunday, October 1 at 1:30 pm. Tickets for the “Watch Party” at the Alluvion are sold out.

Supported by Diana Milock ‘Historical Fiction’ Author Conversations

For tickets, visit NationalWritersSeries.org

bottoms up Two K’s Leelanau Radler Series

As cider season quickly descends, Two K Farms in Suttons Bay has three reasons to up your beverage game. Enter: the just-released Leelanau Radler Series. A kicked-up take on the classic Radler—which usually combines lager with juice—this trio replaces the traditional beer with an estate-grown blend of fermented apples. Topped with a squeeze of fresh fruit and herbs, the result is a gorgeously-sessionable sip (they’re only 5 percent ABV each), with a touch of balancing sweetness and a lightly effervescent finish. The collection comes in three flavors— Lemon, Grapefruit, and Watermelon—and features a slim can design, making them perfect for fall picnics, tailgates, or just heading to the porch to take in the changing leaves. (Pro tip: They also make great cocktail mixers!) Grab a four-pack ($16.99) at the Two K Farms tasting room at 3872 S W Bay Shore Dr., select area retailers, and online at twokfarms.com.

6 Scarecrow Szn

YOUR DONATION helps more than

A NON-CAMPAIGN CAMPAIGN

spectator

By steven Tuttle

You might have noticed the pregame activities for Traverse City’s TIF 97 extension campaign have already begun.

TIF 97 has been rebranded as the Moving Downtown Forward TIF, adding some pizzazz to it. And the third parking deck, touted for years as crucial, is not a parking deck anymore. It’s now the West End MixedUse Development, and it eliminates some of the originally planned parking slots to include housing and retail.

These are projects of Traverse City’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA), and they’ve hired two outside consulting firms to help “educate” city residents, and presumably voters, on the importance of downtown and the importance of tax increment financing (TIF) districts. One of

experience” their site says, “From caucus campaigns, to ballot initiatives, independent expenditures and issue advocacy campaigns, we’ve done it all at least once.” Under their Our Services section, the very first item on the list is “Campaign Strategy and Services.”

In the bio for Kristin Combs, a founder and partner at Bright Spark, the first item says, “She brings more than 20 years of experience curating and spearheading political campaigns.” The remainder of the bio lists more and more campaign-related activity.

So, the DDA has hired, with $50,000 of tax dollars, an experienced group of campaign and political professionals to conduct an effort for “educational purposes only” rather than a pure public relations organization specializing in such things. Surely Bright Spark can undertake

It is highly likely the TIF 97 extension issue will end up on a future ballot. The DDA has decided they need some help finessing that issue in their favor, since much of what they propose for the future is dependent on more TIF property tax captures.

goodwillnmi.org

the firms will also focus on "DDA general needs including branding initiatives, the Grandview Parkway reconstruction project and Park Once initiatives," per the DDA meeting minutes.

(In a TIF district, a baseline property tax is established, and that amount is paid to the city annually along with a smaller piece going to the county, Northwestern Michigan College, and the library district. As the property within the TIF district increases in value, the amount above the baseline then is “captured” by the DDA. TIF 97 was established in 1997 with the promise it would not be extended beyond its 30-year life cycle.)

We are asked to believe it is just a coincidence the education and information campaigns occur in the lead-up to a likely ballot issue to determine if TIF 97, which expires in four years, should be extended by nearly three decades. We are assured, however, this is not about a campaign supporting a TIF extension since neither the DDA nor the city itself is legally allowed to conduct such a campaign.

DDA Executive Director Jean Derenzy, as quoted in both our local daily newspaper and the September 13 issue of The Ticker, reassured us these are not campaign-related efforts. She said, “…the TIF communication support will be for educational purposes only and will not advocate for or against any potential future ballot initiative.”

All right, but it does make one wonder why they have hired a campaign consulting firm, Bright Spark Strategies out of Lansing, to conduct the TIF education campaign. Their own website, as of September 15, proudly tells the story of a political and campaign consulting operation. Under a section that claims they have “Over 60 years of combined

education and information efforts, but anyone reading their website would not assume those are their specialty.

This is not to criticize Bright Spark, whose job will be to create advocacy for TIF without mentioning a TIF renewal might be on the ballot. It’s a tricky and fine line they’ll have to follow, but since their website also lists “compliance” as one of their strengths, they won’t likely veer over that line. They might not mention the proposed TIF extension at all, but there will be thinly veiled advocacy aplenty since that will be their job. They just can’t tell us to vote yes or no on anything—or shouldn’t, since that would be a no-no.

Those of us who have worked on these kinds of campaigns understand the game: advocacy that doesn’t overtly and specifically advocate. We also understand that absent a potential ballot issue, the likelihood of outside consultants being hired—the group hired to address DDA general needs will cost $90,000—would have been low. The DDA has been around for a long time, and the suggestion that their sudden need for outside help is not related to a potential ballot issue posing an existential threat to their future is more than just a little disingenuous. It is highly likely the TIF 97 extension issue will end up on a future ballot. The DDA has decided they need some help finessing that issue in their favor, since much of what they propose for the future is dependent on more TIF property tax captures. Understandably, the DDA is putting together a noncampaign campaign team. Other TIF extension supporters unaffiliated with the city will be able to advocate more openly.

Opponents will soon join the fray, and the campaign and the non-campaign will begin in earnest.

1,000 people experiencing homelessness access shelter and housing each year

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GETTING INVOLVED IN HOUSING SOLUTIONS

opinion columnist by Yarrow Brown

Take a drive around northwest Michigan, and you’ll notice there is a lot of residential development happening. It seems overwhelming to see such growth—I get it. But I also believe if we do not engage, learn, and collaborate to address this important issue, we won’t make sensible progress, and we will see our community change in a way that won’t protect our natural resources or help the community thrive.

There is an urgent need to bolster the capacity of our rural communities, enabling them to address not only the housing crisis but also to engage in well-planned economic development that aligns with community needs. We have a lot to learn, and there is a lot of misinformation out there about zoning reform and who can help solve the housing crisis. There is not one answer or one solution. We have a huge need for housing in our region, and we need everyone to be involved.

collaborate, and connect. (I am biased, being the one putting on the summit for the fourth year now since I started at Housing North in 2020.) However, I do believe it is a great opportunity for our region to learn from others throughout the state and country and to keep the momentum going on the huge task ahead of us.

I am grateful for Networks Northwest, Sarah Lucas, and the visionaries behind the creation of this important event nine years ago. The summit has evolved, adapting to the virtual landscape, and now finding its home at downtown Traverse City’s Park Place Hotel—a fitting location to highlight the city’s ongoing developments while discussing the findings and recommendations from the 2023 Housing Needs Assessment for our region.

Some of the recommendations and potential solutions will be presented at the Housing Summit. A Zoning Atlas Pilot project—

Earlier this year, Housing North released the Housing Needs Assessment for our region. The data is daunting: It pointed out the very low vacancy rates—0.7 percent—we have for housing throughout our region. It made it very clear that while we are growing as a region, we are also aging and losing our younger workforce that contributes to our economy and our communities.

The data also showed that we have a huge imbalance between what people make and what housing price points are available. If you are a single wage earner making $60,000/year or less in our region, it is impossible to find housing that is affordable, let alone available.

A five-year housing gap analysis showed we need 8,813 rental units and 22,455 for sale units across the income spectrum. Some of these are market rate, or for those making above 120 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). That adds up to over 31,000 units. For those making 0-120 percent of the AMI, we need 24,722 total units—almost 25,000 for our 10-county region.

If we are going to make a dent in these numbers, we need to get everyone on board and use many different approaches and creative solutions and ideas. We have an opportunity to address these issues and to collaborate and work together as a region and a community with the ninth annual Northwest Michigan Housing Summit Oct. 25-27. (Visit housingnorth.org to learn more.)

We are fortunate to have a local event where those who are passionate about housing or working in housing attend to learn,

created by a partnership between Housing Next, Michigan Association of Planners, and the University of Michigan—will depict key aspects of zoning codes in an online, user-friendly map. We will have a workshop on Housing Trust Funds and two workshops led by Incremental Development Alliance on proformas (the numbers behind the project) and site planning (how to choose a housing site in your community).

The summit also provides locals an opportunity to learn, share, and bring ideas back to your community to ensure there is a place for everyone to have a safe and healthy home. You can meet with local elected officials, community members, developers, community foundations, chambers of commerce, and more. You can ask questions at the Legislative Happy Hour or attend the workshop on the new programs and Statewide Housing Partnership through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA). You can learn about the Regional Housing Plan created for our area and how you can be involved in implementing the plan.

I am a firm believer in local advocacy that is positive and helps inform and engage everyone. You can also join your local housing action group or team or participate in a Regional Housing Partnership working group to inform our region’s plan. Either way, I hope you will reach out, stay connected, and keep an open mind so everyone who wants to live in northwest Michigan year-round can have a safe and healthy home.

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

There is not one answer or one solution. We have a huge need for housing in our region, and we need everyone to be involved.

Mistaken Identity

As dog-walkers passed the Seascape Cafe in Chapel St. Leonards, England, on Sept. 6, they were startled to see what they thought was a "ritual mass murder" inside, United Press International reported. Police were called to the scene, but it turns out the people lying on their backs were just taking part in a yoga meditation exercise. The class's teacher, Millie Laws, said class members had dispersed before officers arrived, and assured the community on her Facebook page that "(w)e are not part of any mad cult or crazy clubs. ... They were all participating in a beautiful deep relaxation, and it could have never run through any of our minds that it could be taken this way." Namaste.

Life Goals

Zach Swope, 32, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, had a worthy goal in mind when he set out to capture a Guinness World Record: He wanted to raise awareness for mental health issues. To that end, Regal Cinemas donated $7,777.77 to the American Federation for Suicide Prevention after Swope saw 777 films in 365 days, United Press International reported. He started in July 2022 with "Minions: Rise of Gru" and finished with "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny." Swope wisely bought a Regal Unlimited Membership for $22 per month, which allowed him to see as many films as he could. He said he generally saw up to three movies every weekday after work and a few on the weekends, but he was not allowed to take bathroom breaks or have snacks or drinks during the films. What was his favorite? "Across the Spider-Verse."

In Brezna, Montenegro, seven individuals are competing for the resort village's coveted title of "Laziest Citizen," Reuters reported -- and all they have to do is lie down. The contest, which promises a prize of $1,070, is held every year; it started in 2012 to mock a popular stereotype of Montenegrins being lazy. In 2022, a record of 117 hours was set. But after 20+ days and nearly 500 hours, seven of the 2023 lazy competitors -- down from the 21 who started -- were still at it. (Don't worry: Each person gets 10 minutes every eight hours to visit the restroom.) Last year's champion, Dubravka Aksic, 38, said they all "feel good, excellent, there are no health problems, they are pampering us, all we have to do is remain lying down." "Time goes by quickly," said Filip Knezevic, 23, who is determined to take the prize.

The Golden Age of Air Travel

A Swiss airlines flight on Sept. 9 from Zurich to Bilbao, Spain, took off without one key element in place: the passengers' luggage. Yahoo! News reported that although passengers waited for two hours in Spain for their luggage to arrive, it never did. Company spokesperson Kavin Ampalam explained: "There was a shortage of ground staff," and after waiting for more than an hour, they decided to take off anyway. The pilot apologized to passengers for the delay but failed to mention the lack of luggage on board. "We understand the situation is not favorable for the people involved, and of course we regret the inconvenience,"

Ampalam said. Or worse: "Our vacation is ruined," said passenger Carsten Redlich.

Travelers aboard a Delta flight from Ghana to New York on Sept. 8 made an unexpected 12-hour detour to remote Terceira Island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the New York Post reported, and the airline didn't have much sympathy for them. The plane experienced a "mechanical issue with a backup oxygen system," a Delta spokesperson said. Nana Asante-Smith, one of the passengers, said people on board were enclosed in a "partitioned section" because of visa regulations and "had no access to food" or water. Finally, the airport provided sandwiches, juice boxes and crackers. Flyers couldn't get any information from Delta, and one airport staffer told the group they "shouldn't start a revolution" and should be grateful that their plane didn't crash into the sea. When a replacement plane arrived, the group's luggage was not transferred to the new aircraft, and some travelers waited days for their items to be recovered.

Weird Science

Researchers with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), exploring the Gulf of Alaska in early September, stumbled upon a "golden orb" on the ocean floor that they can't identify, Yahoo! News reported. Scientists used a remotely operated vehicle to survey deepwater habitats; the object, which was about 4 inches in diameter and had a tear near its base, was perched on a rock 2 miles deep. "While we were able to collect the 'golden orb' and bring it onto the ship, we still are not able to identify it beyond the fact that it is biological in origin," NOAA said.

Repeat Offender

Reza Baluchi just can't stop getting into trouble with the U.S. Coast Guard, NPR reported. The Iranian-born man from Florida was arrested on Aug. 29 after officers tried for three days to convince him to abandon his plan: running across the Atlantic Ocean in a "hamster wheel" fitted with buoys, with his final destination being London, England -- 4,000 miles from his starting point. He tried similar stunts in 2014, 2016 and 2021, "all of which resulted in USCG intervention," said Coast Guard Special Agent Michael Perez. In a short documentary made about Baluchi by Vice, he explained his motivation: "If you drive a boat, nobody cares. Bubble, nobody did before. ... Make me crazy. They stop me every time, they save my life. I don't no need it, save my life." After the 2016 incident, the Coast Guard sank Baluchi's bubble, so he redesigned and built a new one. He faces charges of obstruction of boarding and violation of a captain of the port order.

The Criminal Mind

The North Wales Police are warning residents about a new strategy being used by burglars, Sky News reported. Criminals are leaving Christmas gnomes in people's front gardens, then watching to see if the little figurines are moved. That way, they can discern whether residents are away and the home is an easy target. "We would advise residents to be vigilant," a spokesperson for the police said. Dodgy.

THE SEASONS OF OUR LIVES

guest

opinion

by Karen Mulvahill

Poetry, literature, mythology, astrology, religion…all find metaphorical connections between the human lifespan and the seasons of nature. We are, after all, creatures of nature. Spring signifies beginnings, youth, and hope. In summer, we bloom; we discover love, vocation, and—vacation! Fall represents maturity, harvest, and conserving. Winter symbolizes endings, dormancy, and death, but also wisdom.

Summer has officially given way to fall with its spires of goldenrod, purple asters, red maples, and bronze oaks. The low sun casts a golden filter over everything. There’s also that bittersweet nostalgia for the summer past and an occasional spike of dread for the long winter to come.

School of Medicine, “When people don’t have a routine or structure to their day it can cause increased stress and anxiety, as well as overwhelming feelings, lack of concentration, and focus.”

Routine can greatly benefit your physical health. Rising and going to bed at the same times each day, eating healthy meals at specific times, and exercising regularly are all important to physical well-being. Creating and sticking to a schedule also guarantees time for your personal priorities.

time for work and play.

In Aesop’s fable of the ant and the grasshopper, the ant busily stores food for winter while the grasshopper plays his fiddle and dances instead. Though the grasshopper goes hungry, I think maybe the ant lay on his deathbed and wished he’d danced more.

I spent the summer like a grasshopper, hiking, paddle boarding, visiting wineries, and bike riding. However, fall does require more antlike behavior in preparation for winter. The bottom boards of the house’s siding show bare wood in spots where last year’s snow and ice scraped away the paint. Leaves begin to collect in colorful drifts. Outdoor furniture must be put away or covered. Is it too late to power wash the deck?

It’s the season to be both ant and grasshopper. When winter does come, you’ll be glad you made time for work and play.

In addition to the chores we complete before our long winters, we also have to prepare for the cold, sunless days. What can we do to prevent the gloomy skies from darkening our moods? We’ve all heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that typically begins in late fall. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 5 percent of U.S. adults suffer from SAD. But another 10-20 percent “may get a milder form of the winter blues.” I suspect that if this were measured by region, we in the northern climes would have a much higher number.

I think of it as a hibernation instinct. Once Daylight Saving Time ends, it’s like a switch has been turned in me. All I want to do is eat and sleep. To combat this winter lethargy, one thing we can do is establish a routine in our lives. According to Rachel Goldman, psychologist at the NYU

A schedule should not only include those things that must be done—work, childcare, doctor visits, grocery shopping, etc.—but those that are pleasurable and those that contribute to your life goals. Perhaps it’s finally learning a foreign language or how to play an instrument. Maybe reading War and Peace. Knitting an afghan for the grandchild. Listening to music. Weekly game nights with friends.

Include time to go outside every day. Even though it may soon seem like there’s no sun, it’s out there. Plus, exercise is a known mood booster. There’s nothing like a woodsy trail lined with conifers draped in thick drifts of snow to give you a sense of awe and gratitude. If you are able, go for walks or snowshoe or ski.

If you are able, consider yourself fortunate. Those in our community who are in the winter season of their lives may not be as able. Many of our elders live alone, have difficulty getting out, and are vulnerable to falls on icy walks. Try to make room in your schedule for calls or visits or to help with shopping or snow shoveling.

If you need help or want to help, most of our counties have departments whose goal is to help seniors. The Area Agency on Aging of Northern Michigan can direct people to the appropriate resources. For example, ShareCare in Leelanau County provides reassurance calls and visits and rides to medical appointments, among other services, through a network of volunteers.

So dance away in the red splendor that is autumn. But channel your inner ant to prepare for winter—for yourself and for others. If you create a routine that reflects your values and goals, winter will be a breeze.

Karen Mulvahill is a writer living in northern Michigan.

It’s the season to be both ant and grasshopper. When winter does come, you’ll be glad you made

FROM FRENZY TO FOCUS

Northern Michigan’s real estate update for fall 2023

By Kierstin Gunsberg

High-interest rates coupled with a lack of home listings have made for an interesting year in real estate. Northern Express caught up with Carly Petrucci and Heather Robinson, two born-and-raised northern Michigan realtors, to find out if the intense grab-it-before-it’s-gone housing market is still holding strong, what rising interest rates mean for sellers, and if we can expect home prices to drop anytime soon.

Here’s what we learned:

Up North Demand Continues

Though mortgage interest rates have nearly doubled since 2022, demand hasn’t waned much, says Petrucci, who serves the greater Grand Traverse area with The Shawn Schmidt Group, part of her family’s brokerage, Coldwell Banker Schmidt. As the desire to own outweighs hesitations about interest rates, first-time home buyers are continuing to put down offers on existing houses.

That’s great news for sellers. “It’s not nearly the frenzy that it was in 2021 when rates were at 3 percent,” says Petrucci. “But it’s still by and large a seller’s market.”

Robinson, who works with Charlevoix

County’s Bay North Realty and exclusively serves the Beaver Island market, agrees.

“With the tight inventory, it’s a great time to sell just because there’s not enough houses for the number of buyers.”

Just as first-time buyers aren’t letting up,

With that publicity comes some challenges. Those features and best-of lists aren’t just adding to demand—they’re also adding unrealistic expectations about what current inventory in the area can accommodate, which is, simply put, not

This is where her local expertise and years of exploring the area help her direct clients toward their best options. If they can’t afford that sprawling lakefront dream house—or there just aren’t any available—an inland home still offers the Up North experience while putting them no more than 15 minutes from the nearest water feature.

Interest Rates Matter

Even though buyers aren’t exiting the northern Michigan market, that “frenzy” Petrucci mentions has been tempered by rising mortgage interest rates and fewer housing options. Buyers seem to have toned down their willingness to spend, leading to a decline in certain buyer demographics, especially second-home buyers.

the influx of out-of-towners relocating to live an all-seasons lifestyle up north is also holding strong this year, says Robinson.

“There are buyers coming from Florida, California, and Arizona,” to embrace a slower pace in the Great Lakes.

“We’re becoming so published,” adds Petrucci. “Traverse City, northern Michigan, Leelanau—it’s all being written about constantly. We were in Wall Street Journal last month and with that comes increased attention and demand.”

much. While there are ready-to-build lots to choose from, rising material costs have slowed new construction, and buyers seem set on existing homes.

Many of those homes aren’t available in the exact spots these newcomers have their hearts set on either. Petrucci says people moving here from out of the area are “really keyed in” on specific locations that receive a lot of press, not realizing that nearby, less-published locales might line up better with their financial and lifestyle criteria.

“A lot of them have dropped out of the market,” says Petrucci. “When rates were at 3 percent, everybody wanted to buy a second home up here because it was so cheap to borrow.” Once those rates hit a fever-pitch of over 6 percent, the majority of her secondhome buyers were reduced to cash-only buyers who could avoid interest rates altogether.

Fixer-uppers are also spending more time on the market as flippers take a step back and fatigued buyers seem apt to hold out for turnkey properties—or, at the least, for rates to dip. As Robinson explains, “With

“I think what we’re going to see is prolonged conditions of more of the same until new construction catches up,” says Petrucci. “Or until interest rates dip low enough that those current homeowners with those really low mortgages are incentivized enough to actually sell and move.”

the adjustments and interest rates, buyers have really gotten a little fussier about what they’re willing to settle for when they have to pay more.”

Another demographic declining because of this year’s high interest rates is current homeowners who’ve already settled somewhere in northern Michigan. As Petrucci explains, around 60 percent of current homeowners are locked into a rate under 4 percent and are unmotivated to buy—or sell—because of it, causing something called a “lock-in effect.”

These current local homeowners are less likely to make a move across town and instead choose to sit tight on what they have because they “look at what interest rates are now, coupled with where home prices have gone, and they’re just not willing to give up their current interest rate of 3 percent or 4 percent,” says Petrucci.

Sparse Inventory is Driving Competition and Price

So, if selling means giving up a lower interest rate for a higher one—and a potentially higher monthly payment—who is selling, and what do these properties look like?

Petrucci notes that for the most part, existing inventory is limited to properties listed by people in “must-move situations” like divorces, job relocations, or urgent family situations. So, says Petrucci, buyers are faced with narrow options that “don’t necessarily equate to a certain type of house,” which is why the hottest homes are still seeing bidding wars.

Petrucci and Robinson both say waterfront homes remain in that hot seller category. They also report that downtown Traverse City, Charlevoix, Petoskey, Old Mission, and Leelanau are all locations that have buyers tripping over each other for a piece of Up North paradise whether as a primary home or as rental income property.

With fewer homes popping onto the market for first-time home buyers to pick from, competition is increasing. This year, Petrucci had buyers who came out on top during a bidding war walk away from the house after a losing bidder offered Petrucci’s clients $10,000 just to back out.

Robinson says that even across the small Beaver Island market, where many of her buyers are seeking a year-round home, a third of active home listings are pending. For her island market, last year’s average sale price of $400,000 dropped slightly to $365,000 this year, hinting that while prices aren’t plummeting to pre-pandemic numbers, they’re making a slight adjustment to account for rising rates while remaining inflated in comparison to a few years ago.

“With these higher interest rates, prices have gotten a little more realistic,” says Robinson. “They’re not the high prices that

we’ve seen before, [but] they haven’t been lowered. There’s been some adjustment downward, just to compensate for the higher interest rate.”

Both Robinson and Petrucci report that transaction times are only slightly longer than last year’s quick sales, which means the homes still aren’t sitting long.

As for homes that can’t seem to sell, Petrucci sees it as a strategy issue rather than a reflection of the total market.

“Some homes do sit a bit longer if they’re not priced appropriately out of the gate, and they take a slight price cut on the purchase price.” Even then, she says, “Sometimes, people assume that selling under list price means sellers are taking these huge price cuts, but the ones that are falling under list price are typically still selling within around 95 percent of list price.”

“Prolonged Conditions” Will Perpetuate a Seller’s Market

For those buyers holding out in the hope that home prices will drop off drastically, Petrucci doesn’t think it’ll happen in the near future. As long as inventory stays low, it’s going to push up demand.

“I think what we’re going to see is prolonged conditions of more of the same until new construction catches up,” says Petrucci. “Or until interest rates dip low enough that those current homeowners with those really low mortgages are incentivized enough to actually sell and move.”

If buyers are feeling overwhelmed by the current forecast, Petrucci says there are ways to make the buying process less daunting. Most importantly, she says, before even looking at homes, find a realtor versed in writing competitive offers, which are “all about reducing contingencies and showing the seller that the deal will not fall apart once the seller accepts the offer.”

On the flip side, as winter approaches and the next round of sellers contemplates putting their home on the market in 2024, Petrucci’s advice is to create a compelling listing. “Buyers are willing to jump on and offer competitively for listings that are brought to market well, but if that work isn’t done upfront, your listing will languish on the market.”

As Robinson says, the colder months are a great time to “edit” in preparation for a spring sale. “Kind of look around and really declutter. It’s hard to look at a house when there are a lot of things distracting buyers.”

She advises focusing on curb appeal and fixing any issues that might come up during inspection. And, while she says it’s still a great time to buy, she urges homeowners to take advantage of the current seller’s market. “Don’t wait until spring! There are buyers interested in purchasing now.”

Petrucci Robinson

BUILDING PENINSULA SHORES

The history of the Old Mission development, its successful sales record, and what lies ahead

By Al Parker and Jillian Manning

After almost a decade of planning and preparation, an exclusive enclave of luxury homes is becoming reality on Old Mission Peninsula…and the houses are selling fast.

Peninsula Shores is set on a pristine stretch of East Grand Traverse Bay, and the 41 home sites offer panoramas of the water from every home, according to Kyle O’Grady of O’Grady Development Company. The family business was launched some 30 years ago by veteran builder Kevin O’Grady senior and now includes sons Kyle and Kevin.

“Things are going well,” says O’Grady, who wears many hats at the company, including both developer and Realtor. “Thirteen homes have been sold. The property is just over 80 acres, with about 65 percent open space. No matter where your home is, you have a beautiful view.”

A Rocky Start

The history of Peninsula Shores dates back to 2015 and is not without its ups and downs. Originally called 81 on East Bay, it’s located on the former Boursaw family farm about 12 miles from the base of the peninsula. The land was vacant woodland and not being actively farmed at the time the project was announced.

“The vision was clear from the beginning,” O’Grady says. “It was simply to make a community with nice open space, great views, and a good atmosphere for residents.”

But some Old Mission residents were concerned about the project’s scale and its potential environmental impact, including erosion problems and loss of woodlands. Some also felt it just didn’t fit in the rural, laid-back atmosphere of the Old Mission community.

“Public meetings were so crowded, 200 to 300 people, that they had to move them from the township hall to St. Joseph’s church,” remembers Jim Komendera, whose home borders the north side of Peninsula Shores and who was so opposed to the project that he bought a full-page ad in the Traverse City Record-Eagle to voice his concerns. “One thing we were concerned about was the clear-cutting of all the trees; hundreds were taken out.”

A group of Old Mission residents got together to oppose the project, hiring an attorney who specializes in the protection of natural resources to put forth a lawsuit. For a few years, allegations and discussions continued, until the project was approved by a narrow vote of the township board in December 2017 and construction was

allowed to move forward with conditions placed on the project regarding soil and erosion.

The O’Gradys challenged those conditions—claiming other developments weren’t subject to the same level of scrutiny—and also sued Peninsula Township for damages due to the project being held up for the better part of three years. The dispute was eventually settled in 2019, with the township paying out $81,000. Along the way, the development’s name was changed to Peninsula Shores and outward opposition diminished, though some residents say they are still not comfortable with the style and scope of the project.

O’Grady makes it clear he’s not interested in rehashing the controversy that stalled the project for several years but instead is firmly focused on what’s ahead at Peninsula Shores.

“We’ve got two more homes under contract, and … four more under construction,” he says. “We’ll have 18 done in three years.”

A Spec Strategy

Even once Peninsula Shores got the green light from the township and the lawsuits were behind them, there was another bump in the road.

“When COVID first hit, we were just about to build our first house,” recalls O’Grady. “The governor shut everything down, and we did a lot of head scratching. In May of 2020 things opened up, and we got back to it, dug our first basement, and have never looked back.”

The first house—the original model home—was completed in spring 2021, six years after the project was first announced. The model home was used throughout the season as proof of concept of the new neighborhood and sold at the end of the summer.

Each of the 41 homes will be distinctive, though the subdivision will have a cohesive overall look. But while every home has its own special touches, those touches almost always come from the developer rather than the future owners.

“We’re unique as a company,” explains O’Grady, “We construct spec houses. We pick out everything: the colors, the fixtures, all nine yards in the house.”

In a world where everything is customizable, is that strategy a deterrent to buyers who want control over the finished product? O’Grady says it’s the opposite— that their method provides a service people didn’t even know they wanted.

“[Homebuyers] don’t have to spend

their time picking lighting fixtures, picking plumbing fixtures, picking paint colors,” O’Grady tells us. “Initially it’s ‘What do you mean I can’t customize my house?’ [and turns] into ‘Oh my gosh, you guys obviously have done this before. This is actually exactly what we’re looking for.’”

A Look Inside

One recently-sold home on Waters Edge Drive is a 3,458-square-foot, four-bedroom, ranch-style home featuring three-and-a-half bathrooms and a finished lower level walkout that looks out over the bay. There’s plenty of room to park three cars, plus storage, in the attached garage. And as with every other home in Peninsula Shores, you get your own personal boat slip in the community’s private marina. It was priced at $2.35 million.

If you need a little more room, there’s a two-story, four-bedroom, four-and-a-half bath abode that comes in at 3,697 square feet. Along with its three-plus car garage, this model comes with 100 feet of direct access to East Bay, so water fun is only a few feet away at any time of the day or night. That bayside home carries a $4 million price tag.

O’Grady says each Peninsula Shores home has been designed to make the most of its unique location, with floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and spacious decks. The gourmet kitchens feature top-ofthe-line appliances, and the primary suites come with spa-like bathrooms, designer touches, and roomy walk-in closets. Spacious garages are heated with epoxied floors and floor drains.

Outside is quality landscaping with hardscape spaces and irrigation, plus a Generac generator powerful enough to serve the entire home in an emergency.

A Growing Demand

The attention to detail and high-end

finishes seem to be paying off when it comes to sales. O’Grady describes the turnaround from when a house hits the market to when it is sold as “quick.”

“Fortunately, we don’t have any lingering inventory,” he says.

The houses are usually put on the market once the drywall is up, but they’ve been sold at all different stages of the building process. No matter when they are available for a Zillow search, one thing remains constant: The homes are selling at or near their list prices.

“Prices range from $2.2 million to $4 million, depending on size and location of the lot,” explains O’Grady. “They’re all about half-acre lots.”

Each homeowner is also responsible for $3,000 annual dues and an additional $500 a year for homes that are linked to the community septic system. Dues cover common area landscaping and upkeep, seasonal dock installation and removal, snow plowing, and more.

So who is moving into the new neighborhood? We asked O’Grady who he sees as the target market for Peninsula Shores and who has purchased a home so far.

“We’ve had a great combination of people locally, of people that have never been to Traverse City before, of people that have grown up in Traverse City and moved elsewhere and want to come back,” he says. “Our youngest homeowners are in their 20s. Our oldest homeowners are probably in their mid-60s.”

What ties all those different groups together, beyond the means to buy into the community? “At the end of the day everybody wants to enjoy a view and a boat on the water,” O’Grady says. “And that just happens to be what we’re able to provide at that subdivision.”

THE GENERATIONAL IMPACT OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

The nonprofit hopes to build 40-50 homes in the next five years

By Ren Brabenec

With prices for building materials and vacant land rising and wages barely keeping up with inflation, helping residents become homeowners has never been more challenging.

“Building materials are 40 percent more expensive today than they were just a few years ago,” says Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region CEO Wendy Irvin.

But as every shift in the broader housing landscape makes homeownership more difficult, Irvin and her team innovate new solutions and draw on community support to help hardworking TC-area residents buy their homes.

“For single people, large families, millennials, the elderly, workforce individuals, and professionals of all backgrounds, we help close the widening gap between what it costs to build a home and what families have at their disposal to buy a home,” says Irvin. “We do it by tailoring mortgages to meet peoples’ needs, providing them with financial courses and budgeting resources, recruiting community members to volunteer, and raising funds from generous donors.”

A Multi-Faceted Organization

Habitat-GTR does a whole lot more than build homes. They run the ReStore home improvement store and donation center in Traverse City. They offer a veteran-specific program to assist vets with homeownership. They support the maintenance of safe and healthy housing inventory through simple roof repairs provided on a slidingscale payback program. Their services also include helping elderly residents with much-needed home repairs so they can “age in place.”

“We’re also connected to a broader community of Habitats across the country and world,” adds Irvin. “We turn to our peer organizations for new ideas and innovations, new ways to leverage our existing resources

to better serve our community.”

Whether taking on silent second mortgages for applicants or reducing costs by building townhomes and duplexes with carports instead of single-family structures with garages, Habitat-GTR’s dedicated team leverages every last drop of ingenuity.

“Even something as simple as shifting our home design process to incorporate more affordable precast concrete foundations and walls has made a big difference,” says Irvin.

But at the end of the day, Irvin says everything comes down to funding. “Resources are scarce, but we do everything possible to secure grant opportunities. We also rely on donations from community members. If local folks share our passion for helping the community, the three ways they can support our work the most is by donating, volunteering, and shopping at the ReStore.”

New Developments Underway

Speaking of leveraging existing resources to serve the community, the new Maple City Crossings development was born from a partnership with the Leelanau County Land Bank Authority. The project includes six duplex homes on a 3.9-acre parcel in the center of Maple City. Four of the duplexes have been built and are already occupied.

“What’s beautiful about these projects isn’t just that we get to help people become homeowners,” says Sallie Krepps, homeowner services manager. “I like to think of our efforts like stones cast into a lake, whose ripples reach the farthest shore. In Maple City Crossings for example, of the four homes that are already finished, one of the homeowners works for Suttons Bay schools; another works for a locally-owned restaurant; one works at a doctor’s office in TC; and another works for Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

Krepps continues, “Most of our applicants work in education, medicine, or for nonprofits. Our applicants are part of the local workforce. Once they achieve homeownership thanks to their work with

us, they’re able to focus on supporting the community.”

Also in Leelanau County is New Waves Community. Designed to use renewable energy sources to offset utility costs and preserve the environment, this development was made possible by a partnership with New Waves Church. Habitat-GTR is developing the land to include 14 homes—seven for sale and seven for rent—on a 20-acre parcel, with nine acres set aside for a nature preserve, trails, and a public open space. “We’ll break ground on this project this autumn, with the plan to have the homes closed in by winter,” says Irvin.

Last but not least for their in-theworks projects, Habitat-GTR has partnered with Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) to create 15 homeownership opportunities at the site of the new BATA’s new headquarters at the corner of LaFranier and Hammond roads. The development will establish a micro-community for residents, including an adjacent 20-acre wooded preserve, childcare, and access to regional transportation.

More Projects on the Horizon

As they look forward toward 2024 and beyond, Habitat-GTR is in the planning stages for a Kalkaska-based development of 12 homes ranging from 900 to 1,100 square feet, with plans to design townhomes to save costs and shorten the build timeline. The organization also received a generous 28acre land donation in Blair Township that, contingent on funding, will be developed into affordable homes in the next one to five years.

All in all, Habitat-GTR plans to build 4050 homes within five years.

“Everything depends on funding,” says Irvin. “We have logistics in place to move forward with all of our projects. The degree to which we’re able to fundraise and gather support from the community really does determine how quickly we’ll be able to get these much-needed homes built

and occupied.”

When asked about long-term impact, Irvin chose a local anecdote on just how powerful Habitat-GTR’s impact can be.

“After 11 years with Habitat, I’m addicted to the happy endings,” she says. “We recently heard from the son of the first family Habitat served in TC 37 years ago, Jake Thomas. He and his brother were children at the time, living in a tent with their mother. But by working with Habitat, they were able to get into a home.

“Once in a home, their mom was able to get a vehicle. Then she started driving her boys to school. Then came football practice, sleepovers, and homework sessions. Now, Jake is a full-time builder and associate pastor. His life trajectory was forever changed by that one little act of hard work and relationship-building between his mom and Habitat volunteers 37 years ago. Jake volunteers, and he’s raising his children with the same values. That’s the generational impact of Habitat’s programs.”

Learn more about Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region at habitatgtr.org.

Completed homes at Maple City Crossings.

THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

Hunt, fish, camp, or build on these rustic parcels

By Ross Boissoneau

Be brave. Take a big swing. Go big or go home.

Randy Mann has a better idea: Go big and go home. The owner and developer at Great Lakes Land Company sells estate-size parcels, perfect for those who want to build a home that provides them with some space and privacy, while remaining within hailing distance of the amenities and necessities of town.

Now, there’s nothing new about selling larger parcels, or about breaking up a piece of land into lots for homes. Mann’s approach is more far-reaching. He first purchases the large tracts of land, sometimes upwards of hundreds of acres. Then he works with engineers and other consultants to determine the best way to apportion the property, not into small lots, but into parcels of two, five, even 10 acres.

He also makes sure they boast prime building sites with access to utilities, privacy and lots of natural features. “I’m not the guy that takes down all the trees. I come from recreational land,” he says.

Yet it’s not like these tracts of lands are wilderness either. “Over time, people asked about utilities, paved roads. It morphed into something between a regular subdivision and recreational land.”

Mann was born and grew up in San Diego, a world away from northern Michigan. When an acquaintance offered him a chance to learn the real estate business, he joined up with Wildwood Land Company of Kalkaska. “He became a mentor. I’d been in radio and TV advertising and entertainment,” Mann says.

Surprise! He found he enjoyed real estate, with its diversity of needs and clientele. After

his mentor retired, he renamed the business the Great Lakes Land Company and expanded his target area to include Otsego, Antrim, Crawford, Wexford, and Grand Traverse counties.

Mann has gone back and forth between San Diego and northern Michigan since discovering the region’s appeal. For example, as he says, during the Great Recession, nobody was buying homes or land. So he spent time back in his hometown and made a living selling cars.

As things improved, he returned to this area and looked at his endeavors with a fresh eye. That led to an epiphany. While he had originally focused on recreational parcels suitable for hunting, fishing, and the like, he realized the potential of adding homesites to the equation. “I started again, worked with investors,” he says.

While Mann had no interest in building homes himself, he saw that including property improvements for buyers who wanted to someday build a home would

improve the parcel’s sellability. “I found a niche in estate-size parcels,” Mann says. That led to ensuring that buyers had access to amenities such as electricity, natural gas, and high speed internet. He also makes sure buyers aren’t pressured into building specific designs or sizes, nor is there a mandate to build immediately. “It’s a piece of property with infrastructure and minimal restrictions,” he says. If someone wants to camp on their property and enjoy the area for a couple years before deciding to

Three lots on the Paradise Ranch parcel near Kingsley.

build, he has no objection.

While the pandemic sent many people to the area to escape the crowded conditions of locked-down urban areas, Mann says there are a significant number who want even more freedom. They’re the kind of buyers he’s looking for, wherever they’re from. “I’m selling to people from all over the country. Seattle, Ohio, Indiana, Maryland, Texas, Phoenix,” he says.

He credits improvements at Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport with helping

pave the way, along with the accolades the region continues to receive as a Best Place to Retire or Most Beautiful Place in America.

“The airlines have increased the volume and size of planes. The secret’s out,” says Mann. Must be. He’s sold out of all but five of the 17 developments he has listed online. Take Paradise Ranch Estates as an example. A mile north of Kingsley and 15 minutes from Cherry Capital Airport and Costco (don’t forget about the importance of the airport), it offers two- to five-acre sites. As

he says, that’s plenty of space to build, grow, or escape.

Plus there’s the added appeal of building on your own schedule. The property allows camping for up to 180 days per year. So, as he says, “Bring your RV or fifth wheel and soak up the summer vibes while building your dream home.”

He’s also bullish on Dockery Hills near Kalkaska. Mann says the rolling hills, hardwoods, and easy access to nearby lakes provide great appeal to those who love the

outdoors. At the same time, it’s just a short drive to Traverse City. “It took me 25 years to buy. It’s by thousands of acres of state land, [and] you look into the Pere Marquette National Forest,” he says.

Now 33 years into a career he never envisioned, Mann’s mantra might be best encapsulated by a phrase from his website: “Great Lakes Land Co. has been transforming raw land into premium, readyto-build property in Northern Michigan for adventurous homeowners since 1990.”

It’s been two short years since I joined forces with Coldwell Banker Commercial Schmidt Realtors. I want to thank this amazing company, and their late founder Ken Schmidt along with his son Mike Schmidt, for providing me with this exceptional opportunity. Their support and the global reach of the Coldwell Banker brand has allowed me to grow exponentially as a real estate professional. If you’re considering a commercial real estate purchase or sale I want to help you. Contact me today and let’s make it happen.

| Traverse City, MI 49686

“We had a great experience with Scott. He was very professional and responded promptly to all our questions and concerns. The closing on the property went smooth and not with any issues. Well done by all involved.” -Bill Hemming

New property owners enjoying the camper life at Dockery Hills.

Your Guide to Up North Pride Week

(And other LGBTQ+ events around the North)

By Jillian Manning

Up North Pride, a Traverse City-based nonprofit “collective of 2SLGBTQIA+ humans [and] allies looking to build a more inclusive and welcoming northern Michigan,” has made September their new go-to month for their annual Pride Week events. Here’s what’s on the schedule for the coming weeks in TC, plus other community events around the area:

PRIDE ON THE PATIO

Sunday, Sept. 24, 12-4pm | MiddleCoast Brewing Company | Free MiddleCoast Brewing will host “a day of solidarity” at their downtown TC brewery with a live DJ, dance floor, themed drinks, and fun for all ages. middlecoastbrewingco.com

COFFEE HOUR WITH STRAITS PRIDE

Monday, Sept. 25, 5:30-7:30pm | Boxwood Coffeeshop & Cafe | Free Straits Pride, which represents Mackinac Island, Saint Ignace, Mackinaw City, Cheboygan, Les Cheneaux, and the surrounding areas, hosts a coffee hour get together twice a month for LGBTQ+ community members and allies. Look forward to light refreshments, activities (like a book club!), and good conversation at Mission Point Resort’s coffee joint. straitspride.org

DANCE THE RAINBOW

Tuesday, Sept. 26, 5:30-7pm | The Alluvion | $25

Head to The Alluvion at the Commongrounds building on Eighth Street for a performance that combines the visual and performing arts. Billed as “part TED Talk, part catwalk, part improv jam,” this one-ofa-kind event features the works of visual artist Winnie van der Rijn and painter and dancer/choreographer Peter Sparling. thealluvion.org

PRIDE RIDE & SIGN MAKING PARTY

Wednesday, Sept. 27, 6-9pm | F&M Park | Free

Join the Up North Pride team at F&M park with your bike gear on Wednesday! The ride departs promptly at 6pm. Sign making for the weekend’s march will take place at The Little Fleet following the ride, and of course food trucks will be on hand with tasty treats for sale! upnorthpride.com

PRIDE POOLSIDE

Thursday, Sept. 28, 6-9pm | The Delamar Traverse City | $35

This event has sold out in years past, so don’t miss out! The threehour pool party (at the Delamar’s heated outdoor pool) is for ages 18+ and features snacks, a cash bar, and tunes from 2BaysDJs. Limited cabana purchases are available with seating and perks for groups of eight. upnorthpride.com

COMEDY NIGHT

Friday, Sept. 29, 8-9:30pm | City Opera House | $20

Catch Kristin Key, Erin Foley, and Daniel Webb on the stage of the City Opera House for a night of music and comedy. All three have appeared on popular shows and networks like NBC, Comedy Central, and more. (Parental discretion is advised.) upnorthpride.com

VISIBILITY RALLY & MARCH

Saturday, Sept. 30, 4-6pm | F&M Park | Free

This is the biggest—and dare we say best?—Pride march in Michigan! The rally starts with keynote speakers and this year's grand marshall, RuPaul Drag Race’s Miss Congeniality, Nina West. The march starts at F&M Park and ends at the Open Space, and attendees are encouraged to wear their pride and bring their signs! upnorthpride.com

DRAG NIGHT & SILENT DISCO

Saturday, Sept. 30, 6-11:59pm | The Open Space | Free

Later on Saturday, directly following the Visibility March, Up North Pride will put on a show! National, regional, and local drag artists will perform at the Open Space, including Nina West and Jackie Cox. After the drag show, a silent disco—aka the type where everyone wears headphones to quietly rock the night away—will conclude the big day of celebration. upnorthpride.com

BIG GAY BRUNCH

Sunday, Oct. 1, 11am-2pm | The Open Space | Free

The last official Up North Pride event on the calendar is the Big Gay Brunch, also held at the Open Space. Yummy brunch food and drink will be available for purchase; local nonprofits will be sharing their stories at booths in the park; and family-friendly activities and live music will make the morning fun for all ages. upnorthpride.com

NORTHPORT PRIDE’S TEA DANCE 3.0, FEATURING MARCIAX3

Sunday, Oct. 1, 2-6pm | Willowbrook Mill | $30

But wait, there’s more! Head north for the afternoon to Northport for Northport Pride’s Tea Dance 3.0, featuring MarciaX3 from season 15 of RuPaul’s Drag Race. The event is cohosted by the Michael Chetcuti Foundation, which produces events that promote visibility, awareness, and inclusion for the LGBTQ community, and will have music by DJ Jace. mynorthtickets.com

Photos by Lil Jes Photography and Allen Kent Photography

Love Thy Neighbor

By Anna Faller

Local homeowner and architectural designer Sam LaSusa isn’t a “tall fence” person. “I want to engage with the community,” he says with a laugh. “I want to meet my neighbors!”

A born-and-bred Traverse City local and graduate of St. Francis High School, LaSusa moved away in the mid-2010s in pursuit of higher education before eventually purchasing the Cass and Fourteenth Street space he now calls home.

That lot, however, sits at the corner of a high-traffic intersection, making the sixfoot wooden fence around the perimeter a necessary evil.

A conventional fence, though, this is not. Instead, it’s become a collaborative art piece—and further, an open invitation— to reflect on what we can do to make our community a more loving place to live. “It’s a little surreal when I drive up and I think, ‘We did that,’” LaSusa says. “It’s changing [the community] dialogue and perspective. That’s what I wanted to accomplish with it.”

Painting a Rainbow

The concept for the fence, he says, was born months ago when he noticed his Pride décor disappearing.

The thefts first began last year, when several Pride flags were stripped from his fence. LaSusa didn’t think much of it then, but when the problem resurfaced this summer, he decided to one-up the thieves by covering the fence in even more rainbow gear.

Shortly thereafter, he returned home one night to find that his display had again been destroyed. That moment, he says, is what inspired him to pursue a more permanent— and eye-catching—fix: “Immediately, I thought: I have to paint [the fence],” he says, “and I have to paint it rainbow.”

The final design, which took days to complete, involved painting each fencepost a different color and uniting them with six giant hearts, which range in hue from red to

purple. At the center of the installation, the door to the yard is emblazoned with baby blue, pink, and white stripes to represent the transgender flag.

“I wanted it to symbolize the LGTBQ+ community wrapping their arms around trans people specifically,” LaSusa says, noting that trans rights—especially in the current climate—are continuously targeted.

LaSusa, though, didn’t stop at the artwork. He also wanted the mural to send a message, and eventually settled on “Love Thy Neighbor” to be spelled out on the fence in block script. “It just kept resonating in my head and seemed like the most poignant message to counteract the hate that was obviously exemplified by someone stealing the flags,” he explains. Perhaps ironically, it also originates from the Bible’s Book of Leviticus. And, he adds, who could argue with such a message?

The Power of Art

But LaSusa hit a roadblock when it came to actually painting the words. Enter: Visual artist and veteran writer of letters, Heather Spooner.

The owner of Ampersand Lettering Lab, a local mural and signage studio, Spooner is known as the brains—and paintbrush— behind the famous wings on The Coin Slot building, which can be found at the corner of Front and Boardman, among other projects around town.

Like LaSusa, Spooner is also a member of the LGTBQ+ community, and when a mutual friend connected the two, she knew right away that she wanted to help. “This project was very close to Sam’s heart. You don’t have to know someone or be connected to step up and show support for things like this,” she says.

As soon as the last coat of rainbow paint dried, Spooner and her wife quickly set up shop. From there, they worked for hours into the night, painting only by the glow of clip-on lamps. The next afternoon, the mural was finished.

“Art is so powerful, and it’s projects like this that really knit a community together,” Spooner says. “It was beautiful to be a part of it.”

Starting the Conversation

Both LaSusa and Spooner agree, however, that community hinges on inclusion.

LaSusa says that though the region has made leaps in terms of LGBTQ+ visibility since the early-2000s—such as Pride flags on neighborhood lawns and Up North Pride’s jam-packed events—there’s still a long way to go. He points to how recent spikes in anti-queer backlash (notably, the Studio 8 controversy, as well as a vandalism attempt on the fence in September) have continued to perpetuate hate in a way that’s not only disheartening, but also dangerous.

It’s exactly this othering attitude that the fence’s message aims to dismantle. “I wanted to show the kids like me who grew up in Traverse City feeling isolated that they do belong, and that there are people in our community who care and support them,” LaSusa explains.

“I also hope the fence is a visible reminder that the queer community exists here,” adds Spooner. “There is a place for everyone, including newcomers and visitors, and I’d love for people to see it and breathe a sigh of relief knowing they’re safe here.”

LaSusa tells Northern Express that the local response has been overwhelmingly positive. Since the fence’s completion, for instance, his neighbor has undertaken a mural of her own (using LaSusa’s donated supplies), which, when finished, will look like a quilt “to symbolize wrapping the community in love,” he says.

Other local efforts include a budding neighborhood association for residents near the Fourteenth Street district that emphasizes mutual respect and support, though it’s still in its beginning stages. Some of LaSusa’s stolen flags have even found their way back home after a neighbor discovered them discarded near the Boardman Lake.

Moving forward, LaSusa has plans to donate his remaining fence space—a 150foot swath along Cass—to showcase the work of Indigenous artists and other local creators of color. “The idea would be to provide a platform for those artists to showcase how they perceive their past, present, and future in Traverse City,” he notes.

Along with that effort, the intersecting medians (e.g., the little strip of earth between the sidewalk and curb) are slated to be redeveloped as native species and pollinator gardens. “Hopefully people will see it as an example and want to do it too,” he adds. “We just have to start the conversation.”

A stolen flag, a painted fence, and a message to the community

Artist Heather Spooner works on the lettering for the fence.

saturday

BALLOONS OVER BAY

HARBOR: Sept. 22-24. Hot air balloon flights, Night Glows, family fun, artisan market & more. Schedule of events can be found online. Free. bayharbor.com/event-detail/balloonsover-bay-harbor-7/?glm_event_from=202309-22

PEACE RANCH WILDERNESS 5K/10K

RUN: The run starts at Peace Ranch, TC & winds through the hard-pack sand roads of the Pere Marquette Forest. Family fun activities such as cornhole, sack races, & roadapple toss will be available during & after the run, including photo opportunities with the horses. The event serves as a fundraiser to help those in need benefit from the mental health services at Peace Ranch. Registration & swag pick-up begins at 7:30am & the run begins at 9am. $40/adult. peaceranchtc.com

38TH ANNUAL LEELANAU HARVEST

TOUR: 8am, Herman Park, Suttons Bay. Presented by the Cherry Capital Cycling Club, this scenic bike tour features 20, 40, 64 & 100 mile routes. All the routes start by riding on the scenic Leelanau Trail, free from motorized traffic. Following the tour, cyclists will enjoy a lunch at Herman Park. $65; $35 for ages 12 & under. cherrycapitalcyclingclub.org/LHT#registration

BETSIE VALLEY TRAIL RUN: 13.1, 10K, 5K & 1 MILE: 8am, Webber Sports Complex (ballfield), Thompsonville. All courses are out & back on the Betsie Valley Trail. northmittenevents.com/events

21ST ANNUAL C.S. LEWIS FESTIVAL: 8:30am-3pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. Today features Saturday Seminar: “Writing and Friendship with C.S. Lewis.” Discussions with Dr. Jerry Root, Don W. King, & Wayne Martindale. Continental breakfast & lunch provided. $50 full day; $30 half day; $20 student fee. cslewisfestival. org/2023-saturday-registration

DETROIT RED WINGS TRAINING CAMP:

PRACTICE: 8:30am, Centre Ice Arena, TC. $20, $30. centreice.org/drwtickets

FALL STREAM MONITORING: 9am-1pm, Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. Volunteers of all ages can join the staff of Grass River Natural area to collect data for the biannual stream monitoring program. Teams will be collecting macroinvertebrates (creek “bugs”) at three sites & then will return to the Grass River Center to sort through their critter samples. Please bring hip waders if you have them. grassriver.org

THE MOMITT ENDURANCE FESTIVAL: 9am-6pm, The Village at GT Commons, The Piazza, TC. North Peak Beer Garden, Left Foot Charley Wine Garden, food trucks, & running & biking events. Sept. 22: The Dirty Des at Dusk Run: 7pm. Line up with Boston marathon champion & 2 time Olympian, Des Linden. Runners & spectators can also sign up for the VIP tunnel experience under the historic State Hospital. Sept. 23: The MoMITT Rodeo Ride: 9am. An American gravel-road epic, this race is for cyclists & riders of all stripes. Sign up for either the Black course (100 miles), or the Blue course (55 miles). momittendurance.com

ANNUAL JEWELRY, GEM, FOSSIL, ROCK & MINERAL SHOW: 10am-5pm, Cherryland VFW Post 2780, TC. Sponsored by the Grand Traverse Area Rock & Mineral Club. Featuring a special area for young rock hounds, lapidary creations, jewelry, gems,

minerals, & more. $2 donation; 12 & under, free. tcrockhounds.com

ART FAIR: 10am-4pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Presented by the Friends of PCL. 231-223-7700.

ART IN THE BARN: 10am-2pm, Stone’s Throw Studio, 4872 N. Long Lake Dr., TC. A pop up show & sale featuring local painters: Lori Feldpausch, Lauren Everett Finn, Margie Guyot, Jessica Kovan, Wendy McWhorter, Mark Mehaffey, & Pam Spicer.

COLORS BY THE LAKE: 10am-5pm, Village Green Park, Walloon Lake. Featuring ceramics, CBD products, accessories/clothing, digital art, drawing, fiber, jewelry & much more. daniellesblueribbonevents.com

IPR’S KIDS COMMUTE LIVE! WSG SIX MILE STRINGS: 10am, Dennos Museum Center, Sculpture Court, NMC, TC. Classical IPR host Kate Botello will lead this rhythmthemed matinee featuring Six Mile Strings. Pre-concert activities will feature a Percussion Petting Zoo in the Dutmers Theatre, a rhythm themed art activity in the Discovery Gallery, & a guided experience with the Sound Wall. A to-go snack will be available for attendees following the performance. Free. simpletix.com/e/iprs-kids-commutelive-with-special-guest-tickets-138609

NATIONAL ALPACA FARM DAY: 10am5pm, Rainbow Valley Family Farms, TC. Attendees will get an opportunity to pet, feed, & take photos with the alpacas. They will learn about these inquisitive, unique animals & the luxury fiber they produce. Free. rainbowvalleyfamilyfarms.com

NEIGHBORHOOD CLEANUP EVENT WITH ISEA: 10am-noon, Oryana/TART Trails lot, TC. Inland Seas Education Association will be leading this cleanup in partnership with the Great Lakes Educators of Aquatic & Marine Sciences. Remove refuse before it reaches the beach. Registration is encouraged. Park in the Oryana/TART Trails lot for a brief orientation. The group will gather again at noon to tally the total weight of collected items & to dispose of the waste. 231-271-3077, ext. 106. Free. forms.gle/sWYjx7jUiqYEhFo48

TRANSFORMATION ON THE TRAIL: 10am-2pm, Hull Park, Boardman Lake Trail, TC. Help clean up the trail &/or connect with local organizations & explore the healing power of expressive arts. Visit scbf.org/ support-us to volunteer.

IDENTIFY & EXPLORE WILD PLANTS: 10:30am, Whiting Park, Boyne City. Join herbalist Sierra LaRose of Bear Earth Herbals for a walk in the park to identify & explore wild plants & their edible & medicinal values. Meet at the green building. Call 231-5827040 to reserve your spot.

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NCMC ATHLETICS HOST 2023 TIMBERWOLVES ATHLETIC RALLY: 11:30am-1pm, outside the NCMC Student & Community Resource Center, Petoskey. Music by Tim’s DJ Service, cookout fare, two bounce houses, face painting, yard games, raffle prizes, & a meet-and-greet with Timberwolf student-athletes. The first 50 attendees will also receive free entry into the Timberwolves’ 1pm volleyball game vs. Delta College. Free. ncmich.edu

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K-9 COUNTRY CARNIVAL: 2-5pm, Great Lakes Humane Society, TC. Cake walk, kissing booth, fortune reading, hayrides, & plenty of dogs ready for adoption. Proceeds benefit the Great Lakes Humane Society.

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CADILLAC’S CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL: 3pm, Cadillac Commons. Live music by

Show your PRIDE with so many events to choose from, Sept. 27 – Oct. 1 during Up North Pride Week in TC. The Visibility Rally & March will be held Sat., Sept. 30 beginning at 4pm at F&M Park with keynote speakers and Grand Marshall, RuPaul Drag Race’s Miss Congeniality, Nina West. The March will follow the kickoff speeches. Other events include Drag Night & Silent Disco, Pride Ride & Sign Making Party, Pride Pool Party, Comedy Night, and Big Gay Brunch. For more info visit upnorthpride.com

Adam Joynt, Crosscut Kings, & The Gasoline Gypsies, cornhole tournament, & 23 brewers, including Short’s Brewing, Grand Traverse Distillery, The Mitten Brewing Co., Cheboygan Brewing Co., & many more. GA: $30 online pre-sale; $35 at door. Includes 5 5 oz. pours. VIP tickets: $65 online pre-sale; $75 at door. Includes GA + geek t-shirt, & 10 additional tasting tickets. Designated driver tickets: $10 at gate. cadillaccraftbeerfest.com

HARBOR SPRINGS FESTIVAL OF THE BOOK: SOLD OUT: Sept. 21-24. Includes movies, a luncheon, book & bag readings, presentations & much more. hsfotb. org/2023-schedule

“WOMEN COMPOSERS NIGHT” CONCERT: 7pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. A Celebration of Musical Inspiration, Diversity, and Innovation. Renowned violinist Karisa Chiu, a rising star in the classical music world, will be performing Amanda Rontgen-Maier’s “Violin Concerto in D Minor.” Prior to the concert, the audience is invited to join GLCO conductor Maestro Libor Ondras for an optional pre-concert talk at 6pm. In addition, tickets include a postconcert reception. $35-$65. glcorchestra.org ----------------------

MARK FARNER’S AMERICAN BAND: 8pm, Odawa Casino, Ovation Hall, Petoskey. Legendary all-American frontman & guitarist Mark Farner was the engine that pulled the original Grand Funk Railroad to the top of the charts. He’s a platinum recording artist 30 times over. At age 70, hear his same intensity in hits like “We’re an American Band” & “Some Kind of Wonderful.” $30, $40. odawacasino.com/entertainment

s unday

BALLOONS OVER BAY

HARBOR: (See Sat., Sept. 23)

BLUE RIBBON RUN - 5K RUN/WALK: 10am, Right Brain Brewery, TC. Held in memory of Curt Barrons. Pre-

sented by Byte Productions. Benefits the local chapter of Us TOO, a prostate cancer education & support group. The course takes you around the Boardman Lake loop. Register: events.bytepro.net/blue-ribbon-run. $30/ person. blueribbonrun.com

COLORS BY THE LAKE: (See Sat., Sept. 23)

ANNUAL JEWELRY, GEM, FOSSIL, ROCK & MINERAL SHOW: (See Sat., Sept. 23, except today’s hours are 11am-4pm.)

COLLIDER PHYSICS MULTIVERSE FROM THE TEVATRON TO THE LHC & BEYOND: 11:15am-4pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Explore the state of particle physics through a planetarium show about dark matter followed by a presentation by Professor Harrison Prosper on the knowledge we have gained at the particle energy frontier. Free. simpletix.com/e/collider-physics-multiverse-from-the-tevat-tickets-139687

DETROIT RED WINGS TRAINING CAMP: RED & WHITE GAME: Noon, Centre Ice Arena, TC. $25. centreice.org/drwtickets

WATERFIRE FEATHERED ARTIST SERIES - SAMANTHA HALL: Noon-5pm, WaterFire Vineyards, Tasting Room, Kewadin. Samantha Hall is a freelance illustrator specializing in colored pencil drawings. She is interested in nature’s beauty & simplicity. Free. waterfirewine.com/event-details-registration/waterfire-featured-artist-series-samantha-hall

“IN TRANSLATION”: THEATER AS MIRROR? A DISCUSSION: 1pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center. Featuring a northern Michigan director, & the artistic director of a small, nonprofit theater company. Terri Heffron & Lesley Tye will be in conversation with GAAC Gallery Manager Sarah Bearup-Neal about their experience translating the contemporary world through theater. Free. glenarborart.org/ events/exhibit-in-translation

HARBOR SPRINGS FESTIVAL OF THE BOOK: SOLD OUT: (See Sat., Sept. 23)

LilJes Photography

monday

DETROIT RED WINGS

TRAINING CAMP: PRACTICE: 8:30am, Centre Ice Arena, TC. $10. centreice. org/drwtickets

DROP-IN PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES IN ART: 9:30-10:15am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, TC. Young artists can engage in themed activities while exploring various art methods. Early registration is encouraged to save your spot. $5. crookedtree.org/class/ctac-traversecity/preschool-adventures-art-september-25

KID’S CRAFT LAB: SHAVING CREAM

LEAVES: 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Swirl some watercolor paint into a pan of shaving cream. Enjoy the colors & patterns that appear on the leaves you print. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org

ANNUAL FRIENDS OF BELLAIRE LIBRARY MEETING: 3pm, Bellaire Public Library. Free. bellairelibrary.org

tuesday

STORYTIME ADVEN-

TURES: 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Featuring “If You Give a Moose a Muffin” by Laura Numeroff. Sign up when you reserve your attendance at the Museum. greatlakeskids.org

CONNECTING WOMEN IN BUSINESS

SEPTEMBER LUNCHEON: 11:30am, NCMC, Library Conference Center, Petoskey. Jasmine Kruskie, co-owner of Social Guru 4 You, brings a message for women: “Discover the Power Within: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs & Showing Up For YOU.” $35 CWIB members; $40 all others. petoskeychamber.com

GAYLORD AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESENTS “FOOD FOR THOUGHT”: 11:30am-1pm, BJ’s Catering & Event Center, Gaylord. “How to Navigate the Current Economic Climate” with Michael Nunneley, associate regional director/certified business consultant, with the Michigan SBDC. Enjoy lunch, networking, & professionally engaging concepts. Pre-registration required. $20 members; $25 non-members. gaylordchamber.com/food-for-thought

WTP MEETING: 1pm, Up North Arts Community Arts Center, Cadillac. WTP (Write to Publish) welcomes new writers to the writer’s group meetings. E-mail Peggy at: hoard@ netonecom.net for more info.

TECH TUESDAY: 3pm, Glen Lake Community Library, Empire. Enjoy a presentation on how to use Overdrive & the Libby App. Bring your mobile device with login info & your questions. Open to anyone wanting to learn how to download eBooks & audiobooks using your library card. Free. glenlakelibrary.net

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REMOTE WORKERS MEETUP: 5pm, Alpine Tavern & Eatery, Gaylord. There will be brief introductions before social hour. Everyone will cover their own food/beverage bill. meetup.com/nmiremote

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DANCE THE RAINBOW: 5:30pm, The Alluvion, TC. Inspired by the work of visual artist Winnie van der Rijn, & in collaboration with painter & award-winning dancer/choreographer, Peter Sparling. Assisted by five professional dancers from NW Michigan, Sparling conducts a lecture-demonstration that re-

moves van der Rijn’s wearable art from the wall & replaces it with Sparling’s rainbowcolored vestments, banners & murals. Part TED Talk, part catwalk, part improv jam, the performance features dancers Katie Dorn & Leslie Williams, Finley VanPatten, Ben Cheney & Yali Rivlin. Double bass player Paul Erhard provides musical commentary. $25. thealluvion.org/tickets/alluvion-visualarts-presents-dance

LWVGTA CANDIDATE FORUM: Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Join the League of Women Voters of the Grand Traverse Area at a candidates forum for Traverse City may or & commissioner. The mayoral candidates are first on the agenda from 5:30-5:55pm, followed by the commissioner candidates from 6-7:30pm. Free. lwvgta.org

“HOCKNEY: SEEING BEAUTY”: Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Kick off Up North Pride Week with a personal look inside the life & creative mind of one of the 20th century’s greatest British artists: David Hockney. The film looks back at his forma tive years in the British pop art scene & his experiences as a gay man. Register in ad vance. Free. simpletix.com/e/hockney-see ing-beauty-free-screening-tickets-138608

GREAT READS MICHIGAN AUTHOR AN

GELINE BOULLEY: 6pm, Antrim Senior, Inc. Community Center, Bellaire. Ms. Boul ley is the author of “Firekeeper’s Daughter” & “Warrior Girl Unearthed.” Register. Free. areaseniorsinc.org

wednesday

HIKE AT UPPER MANISTEE HEADWATERS PRESERVE: 10am. Enjoy an early look at the proposed Excelsior Perch Lake addition to Upper Manistee Headwaters: The Milock Family Nature Preserve. Come prepared with hiking gear & water. The address is approxi mately: 3004 Darke Rd., Kalkaska. Turn right onto the driveway directly across from Myers Rd. & drive about a mile to the end of drive where you’ll gather for the hike. Register. Free. gtrlc.org/recreation-events/events

NORTHERN MICHIGAN ENERGY ROUND

TABLE: 10am, Biére de Mac Brew Works, Mackinaw City. Join the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance to discuss solutions to energy costs. Free. eventbrite.com/e/north ern-michigan-energy-roundtable-tickets692416555557?aff=oddtdtcreator

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP: 1:30pm, Leelanau Township Library, Northport. Dis cuss “The Loon Feather” by Iola Fuller. Please read the book ahead of time; copies available at the Library. Free. leelanautown shiplibrary.org/book-discussion-group-1

NORTHERN MICHIGAN ENERGY ROUND

TABLE: 2pm, The Back Lot, Charlevoix. Join the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance to discuss solutions to energy costs. Free.

FARMER PERSPECTIVES ON CARBON

SMART AGRICULTURE: 5pm, The Al luvion, TC. Crosshatch Center for Art and Ecology invites you to join them to continue learning & discussing community & individu al climate change adaptation strategies re lated to agricultural activities. Register. Free. thealluvion.org/tickets/farmer-perspectiveson-carbon-smart-agriculture

PETOSKEY BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: 5-7pm, Stafford’s Perry Hotel, Petoskey. This is a back to school, tailgating-themed

Business After Hours. Come dressed in your favorite football team, national, collegiate, or high school swag. Bring your business cards. $10 chamber members; $15 not-yet members. petoskeychamber.com

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UP NORTH PRIDE WEEK: PRIDE RIDE & SIGN MAKING PARTY: 6-9pm, TC. Meet at F&M Park in your bike gear & pride gear for a spirited ride through downtown led by Norte & ending at The Little Fleet for the annual sign making party. You will be making a sign for the Pride Visibility March on Sat. Free. upnorthpride.com/event/2023/9/27/prideride-amp-sign-making-party

mar’s heated outdoor pool. Enjoy dancing, prancing, splashing & music by 2BaysDJs. Tickets include snacks. Must be 18+. $35. upnorthpride.com/event/2023/9/28/pride-poolside

“JUNIE B. JONES THE MUSICAL JR.”: 7pm, Elenbaas Performing Arts Center, McBain High School. Presented by Cadillac Footliters. An adaptation of four of Barbara Park’s best-selling books. On Junie’s first day of first grade, many changes are in store! Tickets: $12 in advance at Brinks Art & Frame, & Horizon Books, both in downtown Cadillac; $14 in advance online; or $15 at door. cadillacfootliters.com

PAUL SULLIVAN & CRISPIN CAMPBELL

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PETOSKEY FILM SERIES: 7pm, Carnegie Building, Petoskey. Featuring “Seconds.” Free.

sept

thursday

NMCAA’S LAUNDRY PROJECT: 8:30-11:30am, Eastfield Laundry, TC. Free laundry service for those in need. Call 947-3780 for questions.

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WHAT IS COMPOST? WHY SHOULD I COMPOST? HOW DO I COMPOST? MISTAKES & TROUBLESHOOTING: 9-11am, Leelanau County Government Center, lower level, Suttons Bay. Featuring Kate Thornhill, founder & caretaker of Leo Creek Preserve. RSVP: planning@leelanau.gov. Free.

DROP-IN PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES IN ART: (See Mon., Sept. 25) ----------------------

COFFEE @ 10, PETOSKEY: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Gilbert Gallery, Petoskey. Exhibition Walkthrough: CTAC Visual Arts Director Liz Erlewine will introduce the fall exhibit, “Art + Place + Community: 10 Years with Good Hart Artist Residency.” Free. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/ coffee-10-exhibition-walkthrough

KID’S CRAFT LAB: SHAVING CREAM LEAVES: (See Mon., Sept. 25, except today’s times are 10:30am, 1pm & 3:30pm.)

GRAND TRAVERSE AREA GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY - SEPTEMBER MEETING: 1-3pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Grand Traverse County Clerk Bonnie Scheele will review county records available through her office for genealogists. Second guest speaker Vicki Stol will introduce the “Stories Behind the Stars” project to capture stories of WWII veterans who died during the war years. Free. gtags.org

THE ART OF: RON GIANOLA: 2-4pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Join exhibiting artist Ron Gianola for a lively & inspiring conversation about the evolution of his art. $0-$10. simpletix.com/e/ the-art-of-ron-gianola-tickets-139689?utm_ source=cision&utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=dmc-fall-2023-exhibits-programs ----------------------

“SMALL STEPS FOR BIG CHANGE - THRIVING PETOSKEY”: 4-5:30pm, Country Club of Boyne, Harbor Springs. This two-part dicussion panel will be held over two days: Sept. 28 & Oct. 5. For all area employers & employees. Today will feature Jenna Lindenberg, human resources manager at Drost Landscaping; Brian Bates, owner of Bear Creek Organic Farm; & Bob Struthers, general manager at The Grain Train Natural Food Co-op in Petoskey as they discuss the topic of employees & community. $25 for each session, or $40 for both. petoskeychamber.com/events/details/smallsteps-for-big-change-thriving-petoskey-29971

UP NORTH PRIDE WEEK: PRIDE POOL PARTY: 6-9pm, Delamar, TC. Held at Dela-

DUO: 7pm, The Music House Museum, Williamsburg. Cellist Crispin Campbell (teacher at Interlochen Cello & recently Visitor Professor of Cello at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami) & Grammy-winning pianist Paul Sullivan (whose 18 CDs have sold over 300,000 copies) bring their program that will be a journey from jazz standards & Latin grooves to original blues & world music. $25. musichouse.org

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THREE ONE ACT PLAYS: 7:30pm, Glen Lake Church, Glen Arbor. Presented by the Glen Arbor Players. Featuring “Trifles” by Susan Glaspell, “Out At Sea” by Slawomir Mrozek, & “The Dark Lady of the Sonnets” by George Bernard Shaw. Free.

sept

friday

MORE TO EXPLORE: PUZ-

ZLE TIME: 9:30am, noon & 2:30pm, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, TC. Play with puzzles! Great for the mind & small motor skills. greatlakeskids.org ----------------------

NORTHERN MI HIV SUMMIT: 10am, The Village at GT Commons, Kirkbride Hall, TC. Presented by Munson Healthcare’s Thomas Judd Care Center. National experts provide up-to-date info on HIV & related topics. Free lunch & education credits. Virtual option also available. Details for remote attendees will be provided closer to the event. Free; must register. tinyurl.com/4skxpju6

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STORYTIME: 10:30am, Leland Township Library, Leland. Stories & more for young people aged 0-6 & their caregivers. Free. lelandlibrary.org/programs-events

SELF CARE MASSAGE WORKSHOP: 11am, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Featuring Brian Truskowski. Bring your yoga mat, questions & be prepared to move & have fun. Free. tadl.org/massage

LUNCHEON LECTURE: MONARCH BUTTERFLIES: 11:30am-1pm, NCMC, Library Conference Center, Petoskey. Lauri Juday maintains a pollinator garden in Emmet County that is a certified way station for butterflies, bees & various species of birds. She tags monarchs to document their travels. Lauri will share her passion & offer ways others in the community can pitch in to help. $15; includes a buffet lunch. ncmclifelonglearning.com/event-5392125

DANCE: FALL SHOWCASE: 2pm & 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Presented by the Interlochen Arts Academy Dance Division. Enjoy a wide variety of classical & contemporary dance works including ballet excerpts, modern masterpieces, & student & faculty-choreographed works. $17 adult; $14 child through college. interlochen. org/events/dance-fall-showcase-2023-09-29

4-6pm, Shift Health Center, TC. Meet & engage with various professionals in areas such as medical & healthcare services, holistic healing & alternative therapies, nutrition & dietetics, fitness & exercise, & mindfulness & mental wellness. Free.

EAST JORDAN FALL FESTIVAL: 5-11pm, East Jordan Tourist Park. Tonight includes hay rides, bounce houses, yard games, food trucks, Gordon the Magician, live music by Yankee Station Band, & more. Find ‘East Jordan Fall Fest’ on Facebook.

WITCHES NIGHT OUT: 5-9pm, Downtown Petoskey. A night of trick-or-treating for adults. Enjoy a Halloween-themed shopping night with games, spooky foods & drinks, & prizes. Featuring several downtown Petoskey stores. grandpashorters.com/ event/Petoskey-witches-night-out

“JUNIE B. JONES THE MUSICAL JR.”: (See Thurs., Sept. 28)

JOSHUA DAVIS SOLO PERFORMANCE: 7-9pm, The Alluvion, TC. Enjoy Delta blues, punk rock, old soul, & traditional music from all over the globe. $35 advance; $40 door. thealluvion.org/tickets/alluvion-presentsjoshua-davis-solo

OLD TOWN PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS RIP-

CORD: 7:30pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. A sunny room on an upper floor is prime real estate in the Bristol Place Senior Living Facility, so when the cantankerous Abby is forced to share her quarters with new-arrival Marilyn, she has no choice but to get rid of the infuriatingly chipper woman by any means necessary. Adults: $33. oldtownplayhouse. com/performances/mainstage/ripcord.html

PAUL SULLIVAN & CRISPIN CAMPBELL

DUO: 7:30pm, Ramsdell Theatre, Manistee. Cellist Crispin Campbell (teacher at Interlochen Cello & recently Visitor Professor of Cello at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami) & Grammy-winning pianist Paul Sullivan (whose 18 CDs have sold over 300,000 copies) bring their program that will be a journey from jazz standards & Latin grooves to original blues & world music. $10-$50. ramsdelltheatre.org

THREE ONE ACT PLAYS: (See Thurs., Sept. 28)

UP NORTH PRIDE WEEK: COMEDY NIGHT: 8-9:30pm, City Opera House, TC.

Featuring Kristin Key, a musical comedian best known for her performances on NBC’s “Bring the Funny,” “Last Comic Standing,” & more; & national touring LGBTQ+ comedians Erin Foley & Daniel Webb. $20. upnorthpride. com/event/2023/9/29/comedy-night

saturday

EAST JORDAN FALL FESTIVAL: 8am-11pm, East Jordan Tourist Park. Today includes the Co-Ed Softball Tournament, Cornhole Tournament, Northern Michigan Ax Throwing/Ballistic Swing, pumpkin & gord painting, live music by Charlie Hipps Witthoeft, Lilak Brothers, & Derailed, trick-or-treating & much more. Find ‘East Jordan Fall Fest’ on Facebook.

BOYNE CITY HARVEST FESTIVAL: 9am3pm, Downtown Boyne City. Featuring a farmers market, food, drinks, kids activities, hand crafted artwork & more on Water & Lake streets in downtown Boyne City. Free. boynecitymainstreet.com

DISCOVERING CAREERS IN MARINE

TECHNOLOGY: 9am, Discovery Pier, TC.

Presented by Discovery Center & Pier and NMC’s Marine Technology Department. This 2.5-hour, boat-based program will explore what it takes to be a marine technician & introduce participants to remotely operated vehicles through hands-on experience. Register. Free. discoverygreatlakes.org/discovering-careers

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

TRAVERSE CITY TRAILS FESTIVAL: 9am, Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, TC. Choose from the Full Pint (28 miles, $50), Half Pint (15 miles, $50), Non-Competitive 15 Mile Tour ($50), or Norte Youth Cycling - Balance Bike Race (free). Presented by Stone Hound Brewing. The Full Pint & Half Pint begin at 9am; Non-Competitive at 9:30am; & Balance Bike Race at noon. bikesignup.com/Race/MI/ TraverseCity/TraverseCityTrailsFestival

15TH ANNUAL AUTUMN ON THE BREEZEWAY: Start in Atwood at Royal Farms & Cellars from 10am-noon. Hit the corn maze, a hayride, enjoy pumpkins, apples, wine & more. Then cruise the Breezeway at your leisure from Atwood, through Ellsworth & East Jordan, passing through Deer Lake & ending in Boyne Falls. Take in this 26-mile scenic route & visit attractions & businesses along the way. End at Boyne Mountain where they offer chairlift rides, the SkyBridge & much more. For more info call 231-536-7351.

FALL HIKE AT GREENWOOD FOUNDATION: 10am, Cheboygan County. Greenwood staff will take you around Lake Holy Smoke where you will keep your eyes & ears open for migratory birds, wild turkeys, & elk. Directions will be sent after you register. Free. landtrust.org/events

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GREAT LAKES CHILDREN’S MUSEUM’S FALL SAFETY DAY: 10am-1pm. Gather outside the Great Lakes Children’s Museum for a day of safety & fun. The hands-on activities will include learning about fire hoses & fire safety with the Elmwood Fire Department, getting an up-close look at a Leelanau Co. Sheriff’s squad car & discovering the science behind how downed electrical wires cause fires with Cherryland Electric. Free. greatlakeskids.org/ come-one-come-all-be-safe-this-fall

RAINBOW STORYTIME: 10am, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. This free community event is rooted in celebrating love for self, others & being who you are. It features music, a read aloud, & an art project. Held in partnership with Wild & Wonder TC and Up North Pride. dennosmuseum.org/events/ community-programs.html

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ELK RAPIDS FALL FESTIVAL: 11am-3pm, downtown Elk Rapids. Music, dancing, kids’ activities, food, vendors, corn hole, & a football toss. Vote for your favorite scarecrow. Free. facebook.com/events/32112210258 45565/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_ history%22%3A[]%7D

EAST JORDAN LIONS SPONSOR FREE VISION SCREENINGS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN: Noon-3pm, Tourist Park, East Jordan. Held at the East Jordan Fall Festival at the Kids Sight Trailer. For ages six months to seven years.

GENO’S ANNUAL CAR SHOW & FRIENDS OF THE BVDL FLEA MARKET & ARTS/ CRAFTS SHOW: Geno’s Sports Bar & Grill, Thompsonville. Car Show: Noon-4pm. Top

10 Participant Judged Trophies & People’s Choice Trophy. Please call Geno at 231-3782554 by Sept. 29 to confirm entry. Live entertainment by Duke and the Studebakers. Flea Market & Arts/Crafts Show: Noon-5pm. 231378-2716. betsievalleydistrictlibrary.org/newsevents/genos-annual-car-show-and-friendsof-the-bvdl-flea-market-and-arts-crafts-show

POP UP & POP ON: Northport Arts Association, Village Arts Building, Northport. Featuring artwork from members of the Northport Arts Association, music & wine. Pops Up: Sept. 30, noon-4pm. Pops On: Oct. 1 & Oct. 3-7, noon-4pm. Free. northportartsassociation.org/events-exhibits

BOOK SIGNING: 1pm, Happy Owl Bookstore, Manistee. Author Bob Van Dellen will present & sign his new book, “Reflections on Literature: Exploring Meanings and Messages; Volume I: The Modern Novel from the Roaring Twenties to the Mythic West.” Free.

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BOOK SIGNING WITH PEGGY CRETEN: 1pm, Horizon Books, TC. Featuring Peggy’s newest title in the Peggy Perch series: “Opal Otter Chooses Courage.” Free. horizonbooks.com

finger-style guitarist Rollie Tussing performs classic & country blues, songs from the 20’s, & more. $9-$18. mynorthtickets.com/events/ rollie-tussing-house-concert-9-30-2023

BLISSFEST PRESENTS: MIKO MARKS: 7:30pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Theater, Petoskey. Enjoy Marks’ unique style & powerful vocals that blend the best of country, soul, & Americana. $25-$30. showclix.com/ event/miko-marks----------------------

OLD TOWN PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS RIPCORD: (See Fri., Sept. 29)

PAUL SULLIVAN & CRISPIN CAMPBELL DUO: 7:30pm, The Cheboygan Opera House. Cellist Crispin Campbell (teacher at Interlochen Cello & recently Visitor Professor of Cello at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami) & Grammy-winning pianist Paul Sullivan (whose 18 CDs have sold over 300,000 copies) bring their program that will be a journey from jazz standards & Latin grooves to original blues & world music. $15-$30. theoperahouse.org

THREE ONE ACT PLAYS: (See Thurs., Sept. 28)

TAKE3: 7pm, trio Take3 ground created (Yanni’s cello & node/505 ongoing

HAUNTED Resort, days, penbluffs.com

THE FATHER FOOD food donations Tom’s donorbox.org/2023-fall-food-drive ----------------------

THE ALIVE 9-11am, ell Street, discuss poetessandstranger.com

GREAT VERSATIONS

SLINGING PIES SINCE 1981!

CREATIVITY Q+A LIVE WITH FIBER ARTIST MEG STALEY: 1pm, Glen Arbor Arts Center. Meg will talk about her practice with Sarah Bearup-Neal, GAAC gallery manager. She hand builds women’s clothing, & uses clothing as an expressive tool. Free. glenarborart.org/events/creativity-qa-live-with-fiber-artist-meg-staley

CELEBRATE SOUTH PIER LIGHTHOUSE

TURNING 75: 2-4pm, Michigan Beach Park, Charlevoix. Featuring live entertainment from Pat Ryan, lighthouse keeper interpreter Carl Jahn, children’s activities, historical info, play the original foghorn ‘Ferdinand’ & more. Free. ----------------------

UP NORTH PRIDE WEEK: VISIBILITY RALLY & MARCH: 4-6pm, F&M Park, TC. The Rally will start at 4pm with keynote speakers & this year’s Grand Marshall, RuPaul Drag Race’s Miss Congeniality: Nina West. The March will follow the kickoff speeches. Free. upnorthpride.com/event/2023/9/30/visibilityrally-amp-march

PINK SING: 6-10pm, Midnight Acres, Bellaire. Presented by Antrim County High Tea for Breast Cancer Prevention. Tickets include specialty cocktails, beer, wine, light meal, dessert, door prizes & karaoke. $35. antrimcountyhighteaforbreastcancerprevention. org/highteaevents

oct 01 PIZZA 231-941-5740

UP NORTH PRIDE WEEK: DRAG NIGHT & SILENT DISCO: 6pm, The Open Space, TC. Support the national, regional, & local drag artists including RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants: Nina West & Jackie Cox. Drag Night will be hosted by local Drag King Ben Eaton. Free. upnorthpride.com/event/2023/9/30/ drag-night-amp-silent-disco ----------------------

ELK RAPIDS CONCERT: 6:30pm, Historic Town Hall, Elk Rapids. Featuring Jim Hawley. Donation. facebook.com/downtownelkrapids

“JUNIE B. JONES THE MUSICAL JR.”: (See Thurs., Sept. 28)

JOSHUA DAVIS W/ FULL BAND: 7-9:30pm, The Alluvion, TC. Enjoy Davis with his oneof-a-kind songs, stories & selections from his catalog of music, along with his band. $35 advance; $40 door. thealluvion.org/tickets/alluvion-presents-joshua-davis-w-full-band-night-2

ROLLIE TUSSING HOUSE CONCERT: 7-9pm, 4320 E 46 Rd., Cadillac. Presented by Gopherwood Concerts. Award winning

sunday

MADE IN CHEBOYGAN

CRAFT SHOW: (See Sat., Sept. 30, except today’s time is 10am-3pm.)

UP NORTH PRIDE WEEK:

BIG GAY BRUNCH: 11am-2pm, Open Space Park, TC. Admission is free to this brunch & picnic, with local food & beverages available to purchase. There will also be family-friendly activities & live music. upnorthpride.com/ event/2023/10/1/big-gay-brunch

POP UP & POP ON: (See Sat., Sept. 30) ----------------------

ANNUAL BUILD A SCARECROW FAMILY FUN DAY & CONTEST: 1-4pm, Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, TC. Scarecrow frames, burlap & straw will be provided. Bring your own scarecrow attire & decorations. Botanic Garden visitors will be invited to vote for their favorite scarecrow, & the winner will receive a one-year membership to the garden. Reserve your spot. 935-4077.

INDIGENOUS ART AND CULTURE: Jordan River Arts Council, East Jordan. The opening reception for this exhibit is held today from 1-4pm. It will feature drum voices of Greensky, hoop dance from Wren Zhawenim Gotts, & Hadassa GreenSky will sing traditional songs. Experience a taste of Indigenous foods from the Great Lakes region. Free. jordanriverarts.com

NWS: KEN FOLLETT’S NEW NOVEL: 1:303pm, The Alluvion, TC. Follett’s new novel, “The Armor of Light,” completes his eight-volume series that chronicles the last thousand years of Western civilization. Guest host is Pat Livingston, news director at Up North Live News, 7 & 4 News, & 29 & 8. $54, $44. thealluvion.org/tickets/national-writers-series-presents-ken-folletts-new-novel-the-armor-of-light

“JUNIE B. JONES THE MUSICAL JR.”: (See Thurs., Sept. 28, except today’s time is 2pm.)

OLD TOWN PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS RIPCORD: (See Fri., Sept. 29, except today’s time is 2pm.)

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CELEBRATE 50 YEARS WITH CTAC, PETOSKEY: 5-6:30pm, Crooked Arts Center, Petoskey. Enjoy family-friendly activities, live music, interactive demonstrations, a scavenger hunt, giveaways & more. Free. crookedtree.org/openhouse

AFFAIRS: Thirlby series are timely society. in order: China tics in at a Crossroads, discussions professionals. all 8 weeks are left be held 20 through tered, Decisions decisions

PRESCHOOL 10:30am, brary, schoolers stories, BLOOMS Tuesdays, Natural on the identify Natural the birds river.org

farmers

BELLAIRE 8am-noon, Bellaire.

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BOYNE KET: through Shop at over music will feature Sept. Todd boynecityfarmersmarket.org

---------------------CADILLAC Fri., 9am-3pm. Featuring activities, smarket.org

performs the 20’s, mynorthtickets.com/events/

MARKS: Theater, powcountry, showclix.com/

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PRESENTS RIP-

CAMPBELL House. Interlochen at the of MiSullivan copies) journey from blues theoperahouse.org

---------------------Thurs., CHEBOYGAN

Sat., today’s time

--------------

WEEK: Space brunch & available family-friendly upnorthpride.com/ 30)

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Bring decorations. Bovote for will regarden.

Jordan opentoday from Greensky, & Hasongs. Exfrom the jordanriverarts.com

1:30novel, eight-volthousand host is North Live thealluvion.org/tickets/national-writers-series-presents-ken-folletts-new-novel-the-armor-of-light

JR.”: time is

PRESENTS RIPtoday’s

---------------------CTAC, Cenactividemonstrations, Free.

TAKE3: WHERE ROCK MEETS BACH: 7pm, City Opera House, TC. Genre-defying trio Take3 infuses their classical music background with rock-star charisma. TAKE3 was created by violinist/vocalist Lindsay Deutsch (Yanni’s featured violin soloist), alongside cello & piano. $10-$30. cityoperahouse.org/ node/505

ongoing

HAUNTED BLUFFS: Alpen Bluffs Outdoor Resort, Gaylord. Held on Fridays & Saturdays, 8pm-midnight, Sept. 29 - Oct. 28. alpenbluffs.com

THE FATHER FRED FOUNDATION FALL FOOD DRIVE: Accepting non-perishable food donations & cash or online donations at Tom’s & Oleson’s stores, TC through Oct. 1. donorbox.org/2023-fall-food-drive

THE ALIVE POETS SOCIETY: Saturdays, 9-11am, Poetess and Stranger, 445 E. Mitchell Street, Unit A, downtown Petoskey. Read, discuss & write poetry together. Ages 17+. poetessandstranger.com

GREAT DECISIONS: COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS ABOUT CURRENT WORLD

AFFAIRS: Traverse Area District Library, Thirlby Room, TC. Join for an eight week series to discuss current affairs topics that are timely & important talking points for our society. Discussion Topics for 2023 are, in order: Energy Geopolitics, War Crimes, China and the US, Economic Warfare, Politics in Latin America, Global Famine, Iran at a Crossroads, & Climate Migration. The discussions will be led by local education professionals. You are expected to attend all 8 weeks of discussion, or as many as are left in the series. The discussions will be held every Weds. from 1-3pm on Sept. 20 through Nov. 8. Once you have registered, please obtain a copy of the Great Decisions Briefing book. tadl.org/greatdecisions

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PRESCHOOL STORY TIME!: Tuesdays, 10:30am, Suttons Bay-Bingham District Library, lower-level Community Room. Preschoolers of all ages are invited to join for stories, songs & active fun. sbbdl.org

BLOOMS & BIRDS: WILDFLOWER WALK: Tuesdays, 10am through Sept., Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire. Go for a relaxing stroll on the trails with GRNA docents to find & identify the unique wildflowers at Grass River Natural Area. Along the way look & listen for the birds who call Grass River home. grassriver.org

farmers markets

BELLAIRE FARMERS MARKET: Fridays, 8am-noon, ASI Community Center & Park, Bellaire.

BOYNE CITY OUTDOOR FARMERS MAR-

KET: Wednesdays & Saturdays, 8am-noon through Oct. 14. Veterans Park, Boyne City. Shop local produce, artwork & artisan foods at over 50 vendors. There will also be live music & kids activities. The Sept. 23 market will feature live music by Ben Traverse. The Sept. 30 market will feature live music by Todd Aldrich. boynecityfarmersmarket.orgboynecityfarmersmarket.org

CADILLAC FARMERS MARKET: Tues. & Fri., 9am-3pm. 117 W. Cass St., Cadillac. Featuring 60 vendors, food trucks, children’s activities, live music & more. cadillacfarmersmarket.org

DOWNTOWN PETOSKEY FARMERS MARKET: Fridays, 8:30am-1pm through Sept. 29.

Howard St., between Mitchell & Michigan streets, Petoskey.

ELK RAPIDS FARMERS MARKET: Next to Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, on US 31 by the swan. Every Fri. through Oct. 6, 8am-noon. Local growers & producers from all around northwestern Michigan. elkrapidschamber.org/farmers-market

HARBOR SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays, 9am-1pm through Oct. 14. Corner of State & Main streets, Harbor Springs.

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OLD TOWN EMMET FARM MARKET: Sat., 9am-2pm through Oct. 7 at Friendship Senior Center parking lot, Petoskey. Local homemade & homegrown products. Special events throughout the season include donation based cookouts, food trucks on site, & more. Follow the Facebook page for the schedule: @oldtownemmetfarmmarket.

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SARA HARDY DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET: Sat., 7:30am-noon; & Weds., 8am-noon. Parking lot “B” at southwest corner of Cass & Grandview Parkway, TC. dda. downtowntc.com/farmers-market

THE VILLAGE AT GT COMMONS OUTDOOR FARMERS MARKET: The Village at GT Commons, The Piazza, TC, Mondays from 1-5pm. Farm fresh eggs, fruits & veggies, meats, honey, maple syrup, & more. facebook.com/events/643530983769466/64 3530997102798/?active_tab=about

art

“SAFE HARBOR”: Higher Art Gallery, TC. This annual fundraiser exhibit benefits the TC emergency shelter for people facing homelessness. Runs through Oct. 7. higherartgallery.com/exhibitcalendar

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CAROLYN DAMSTRA’S POP UP GAL

LERY: Sept. 19-25, Art Shanty, Fishtown, Leland. Featuring Damstra’s latest original paintings of the Leelanau area & Michigan nature subjects. facebook.com/events/1349 778005939655?ref=newsfeed

ON NATURE: CORLETT/DEANS/SAXON

ART EXHIBITION: Sept. 16-30, The Rams dell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee. Experience three artists, three friends, whose work explores the nature of the figure & the landscape in monotype & painting. ramsdell theatre.org/art

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BARBARA REICH EXHIBIT: Bonobo Win ery, TC. Original artwork by plein air/studio artist Barbara Reich, featuring “Paintings from Around the Peninsulas.” Runs through Nov. 28. barbarareich.com

JRAC MEMBER SHOW 2023: Jordan River Arts Council, East Jordan. This exhibit show cases the work of many Jordan River Arts Council members. Runs through Sept. 23. Check web site for days & hours. jordanriv erarts.com

ALAN MACIAG EXHIBIT AT MARI VINE

YARDS, TC: Plein Air painter Alan Maciag exhibits gorgeous Michigan landscapes. Runs through Sept. twistedfishgallery.com/ event/alan-maciag-exhibit-at-mari-vine yards-with-twisted-fish

CHARLES CULVER PUBLIC ART EXHI

BITION: On display throughout downtown Bellaire through Oct. Each piece of art will display a QR code to access an audio pre sentation providing history & background of the particular piece. bellairelibrary.org

231-334-2758

FANTASTIC FARMHOUSE ON 10 ACRES

6800 S. Townline Road, Cedar

Enjoy rolling countryside views and stunning fall colors from your expansive wrap-around front porch. Spacious 3 bed/3.5 bath home, 2736 total square feet, with a main-level master suite. The upstairs second bedroom has its own balcony! Enjoy a cozy wood-burning stove, walk-out basement, and newer stainless steel kitchen appliances. $675,000. MLS # 1915780

Anne Rollo - Gil/Betsy Webb - Rob Serbin - Ron Raymond - Nick Vanden Belt

BONOBO WINERY, PATIO, TC

9/29 -- Emily Burns, 6-8

BRADY'S BAR, TC

9/23 -- Timothy Michael Thayer, 6:30-9:30

COMMON GOOD BAKERY, TC

9/30 -- Blair Miller, 6

CUT & RUN, TC

9/29 -- Blair Miller, 7:30

ENCORE 201, TC

9/23 -- The KnockAuffs, 7-10; Vintage Vinyl DJ Robbie Rob Greco, 10

9/29 -- Drew Hale, 8-10; DJ Ricky

T, 10

9/30 -- The Drew Hale Band, 8-10; Vintage Vinyl DJ Robbie Rob Greco, 10

HOTEL INDIGO, TC Wed -- Trivia Night, 7-8:30

JACOB’S FARM, TC

6-8:30:

9/29 – The Bootstrap Boys

KILKENNY'S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE, TC

9:30:

9/23 -- Bad Jam

9/29-30 -- Scarkazm

KINGSLEY LOCAL BREWING

9/25 -- Trivia, 6-8

9/26 -- Open Mic, 6-8

9/28 -- Sam Sings Sinatra, 7-9

LEFT FOOT CHARLEY, TC

10/1 – Harvest Festivus w/ Ben

Traverse & Co., 1:30-3:30

BARREL ROOM:

9/25 – Open Mic w/ Rob Coonrod, 6-9

TASTING ROOM:

9/29 – Mountain Gloom & Mountain

Glory, 5-7

LIL BO, TC

Tues. – Trivia, 8-10

Weds. – Open Mic Night w/ Aldrich,

9-11

Sun. – Karaoke, 8

MAMMOTH DISTILLING, TC

9/23 – Andrew Lutes, 7-10

9/28 – Chris Smith, 7:30-10:30

9/29 – Matt Mansfield, 7-10

MARI VINEYARDS, TC 4-6:

9/26 -- Jim Hawley

9/28 -- Ben Richey

MIDDLECOAST BREWING CO., TC PATIO:

9/29 -- Kyle Brown, 6-9

NORTH BAR, TC

7-10:

9/23 – Mal & Mike

9/27 – Jesse Jefferson

9/28 – Drew Hale

9/29 – Levi Britton

OLD MISSION DISTILLING, TC

9/24 -- Swingbone North, 5-8

ROVE ESTATE VINEYARD & WINERY, TC

9/29 – Chris Smith, 5:30-8:30

SORELLINA'S, TC

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

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

THE ALLUVION, TC

9/25 -- Big Fun - Funky Fun Mon, 6-8

9/28 -- Thursday Night Jazz, 6-8:30

9/29 -- Joshua Davis Solo, 7-9

9/30 -- Joshua Davis w/ Full Band,

7-9:30

THE COIN SLOT, TC

9/27 – BYOVinyl, 8

THE LITTLE FLEET, TC 8-11:

9/23 – DJ Nights: Autumnal Equinox

w/ DJ Dusty Staircase

9/30 – DJ Nights: Cover or Original w/ DJ Renn

Antrim & Charlevoix

BARREL BACK RESTAURANT, WAL-

LOON LAKE

9/28 -- Peter Allen Jensen, 6

CASTLE FARMS, CHARLEVOIX

1918 CELLARS:

9/27 -- Peter Allen Jensen, 6

CELLAR 1914, CENTRAL LAKE

9/23 -- End of Summer Bash w/ Jesse Ray & The Carolina Catfish, 5-8

ETHANOLOGY, ELK RAPIDS

OUTDOORS:

9/23 -- The Pocket, 8-11

FIRESIDE LOUNGE, BELLAIRE

9/30 -- Rick Woods, 7-10

LOST CELLARS, CHARLEVOIX

9/30 -- Harvest Party w/ David Cisco, 3-7

PROVISIONS WINE LOUNGE, BOYNE CITY

9/30 – Peter Allen Jensen, 6-8

THE PARLOR, TC 8-11:

9/23 -- Rolling Dirty

9/26 – Jesse Jefferson

9/27 – Wink Solo

9/28 – Jimmy Olson

9/29 – Larz Cabot

9/30 – Slim Pickins

THE PUB, TC 8-11:

9/23 – Larz Cabot

9/27 – Tyler Roy

9/28 – Steve Clark

9/29 – The Fridays

9/30 – East Bay Drive w/ SkyeLea Martin

THE WORKSHOP BREWING CO., TC

9/23 -- StoneFolk, 8

9/24 -- TiltThink Improv Presents: Comedy Mixtape #6, 7-9

9/26 -- Open Mic, 7-9

9/27 -- Jazz Show & Jam, 6-8:30

9/28 -- Trivia Night, 7-8

9/29 -- SkyeLea, 8-10

THIRSTY FISH SPORTS GRILLE, TC PATIO, 6:30-9:30:

-- J Hawkins Band

– Matt Mansfield

– Style Guides

-- Protea

TRAVERSE CITY WHISKEY CO.

9/23 & 9/30 -- Ben Richey, 6-8

TURTLE CREEK CASINO, WILLIAMSBURG MID-LEVEL, 5-9:

– Dominic Fortuna

UNION STREET STATION, TC

--

SHORT'S BREW PUB, BELLAIRE BEER GARDEN, 7-9:30:

9/29 -- StoneFolk 9/30 -- Red Elvises

STIGG'S BREWERY, BOYNE CITY

9/23 -- Nelson Olstrom, 6-9

THE EARL, CHARLEVOIX ROOFTOP HI BAR, 7-10:

9/27 – Dave Cisco

9/29 – Shawn Butzin

10/1 – Sean Bielby

BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU TASTING ROOM LAWN:

CICCONE VINEYARD & WINERY, SUT-

ETHANOLOGY, ELK RAPIDS

LAKE ANN BREWING CO.

CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN, THOMPSONVILLE LEVEL4 LOUNGE:

DICK'S POUR HOUSE, LAKE LEELANAU

IRON

Otsego, Crawford & Central

Emmet & Cheboygan

OVATION HALL:

9/23 -- Mark Farner's American Band, 8 VICTORIES: 9/29 -- Detour, 9

POND HILL FARM, HARBOR SPRINGS

9/24 -- Kirby Snively, 4-6

THE BEAU, CHEBOYGAN 9/23 -- Live Music (‘Beau Appetit’), 8-11

-- Musicians Playground 'Open Mic', 6-8

-- Tai Drury, 8-11

-- Chris Neuman, 8-11

BY ROB BREZSNY

CLASSIFIEDS lOGY

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If you have ever contemplated launching a career as a spy, the coming months will be a favorable time to do so. Likewise if you have considered getting trained as a detective, investigative journalist, scientific researcher, or private eye. Your affinity for getting to the bottom of the truth will be at a peak, and so will your discerning curiosity. You will be able to dig up secrets no one else has discovered. You will have an extraordinary knack for homing in on the heart of every matter. Start now to make maximum use of your superpowers!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): "The soul moves in circles," psychologist James Hillman told us. "Hence our lives are not moving straight ahead; instead, hovering, wavering, returning, renewing, repeating." In recent months, Virgo, your soul's destiny has been intensely characterized by swerves and swoops. And I believe the rollicking motion will continue for many months. Is that bad or good? Mostly good—especially if you welcome its poetry and beauty. The more you learn to love the spiral dance, the more delightful the dance will be.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Have you been sensing a phantom itch that’s impossible to scratch? Are you feeling less like your real self lately and more like an AI version of yourself? Has your heart been experiencing a prickly tickle? If so, I advise you not to worry. These phenomena have a different meaning from the implications you may fear. I suspect they are signs you will soon undertake the equivalent of what snakes do: molting their skins to make way for a fresh layer. This is a good thing! Afterward, you will feel fresh and new.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): According to legend, fifth-century Pope Leo I convinced the conquering army of Attila the Hun to refrain from launching a full-scale invasion of Italy. There may have been other reasons in addition to Leo's persuasiveness. For example, some evidence suggests Attila's troops were superstitious because a previous marauder died soon after attacking Rome. But historians agree that Pope Leo was a potent leader whose words carried great authority. You, Sagittarius, won't need to be quite as fervently compelling as the ancient Pope in the coming weeks. But you will have an enhanced ability to influence and entice people. I hope you use your powers for good!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Singersongwriter Joan Baez has the longevity and endurance typical of many Capricorns. Her last album in 2018 was released 59 years after her career began. An article in The New Yorker describes her style as “elegant and fierce, defiant and maternal.” It also noted that though she is mostly retired from music, she is “making poignant and unpredictable art,” creating weird, hilarious line drawings with her nondominant hand. I propose we make Baez your inspirational role model. May she inspire you to be elegant and fierce, bold and compassionate, as you deepen and refine your excellence in the work you’ve been tenaciously plying for a long time. For extra credit, add some unexpected new flair to your game.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian author and activist Mary Frances Berry has won numerous awards for her service on behalf of racial justice. One accomplishment: She was instrumental in raising global awareness of South Africa's apartheid system, helping to end its gross injustice. "The time when you need to do something," she writes, "is when no one else is willing to do it, when people are saying it can’t be done." You are now in a phase when that motto will serve you well, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): I invite you to spend quality time gazing into the darkness. I mean that literally and figuratively. Get started by turning off the lights at night and staring, with your eyes open, into the space in front of you. After a while, you may see flashes of light. While these might be your optical nerves trying to fill in the blanks, they could also be bright spirit messages arriving from out of the void. Something similar could happen on a metaphorical level, too. As you explore parts of your psyche and your life that are opaque and unknown, you will be visited by luminous revelations.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Author Diane Ackerman says it's inevitable that each of us sometimes "looks clumsy or gets dirty or asks stupid questions or reveals our ignorance or says the wrong thing.” Knowing how often I do those things, I'm extremely tolerant of everyone I meet. I’m compassionate, not judgmental, when I see people who "try too hard, are awkward, care for one another too deeply, or are too open to experience." I myself commit such acts, so I’d be foolish to criticize them in others. During the coming weeks, Aries, you will generate good fortune for yourself if you suspend all disparagement. Yes, be accepting, tolerant, and forgiving—but go even further. Be downright welcoming and amiable. Love the human comedy exactly as it is.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Taurus comedian Kevin James confesses, "I discovered I scream the same way whether I’m about to be devoured by a great white shark or if a piece of seaweed touches my foot." Many of us could make a similar admission. The good news, Taurus, is that your anxieties in the coming weeks will be the "piece of seaweed" variety, not the great white shark. Go ahead and scream if you need to—hey, we all need to unleash a boisterous yelp or howl now and then—but then relax.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Here are famous people with whom I have had personal connections: actor Marisa Tomei, rockstar Courtney Love, filmmaker Miranda July, playwright David Mamet, actor William Macy, philosopher Robert Anton Wilson, rockstar Paul Kantor, rock impresario Bill Graham, and author Clare Cavanagh. What? You never heard of Clare Cavanagh? She is the brilliant and renowned translator of Nobel Prize Laureate poet Wisława Szymborska and the authorized biographer of Nobel Prize Laureate author Czesław Miłosz. As much as I appreciate the other celebrities I named, I am most enamored of Cavanagh’s work. As a Gemini, she expresses your sign’s highest potential: the ability to wield beautiful language to communicate soulful truths. I suggest you make her your inspirational role model for now. It’s time to dazzle and persuade and entertain and beguile with your words.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): cheer you on when you identify what you want. I exult when you devise smart plans to seek what you want, and I celebrate when you go off in high spirits to obtain and enjoy what you want. I am gleeful when you aggressively create the life you envision for yourself, and I do everything in my power to help you manifest it. But now and then, like now, I share Cancerian author Franz Kafka's perspective. He said this: "You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait. Do not even wait, be quite still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked. It has no choice. It will roll in ecstasy at your feet."

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Let’s talk about changing your mind. In some quarters, that's seen as weak, even embarrassing. But I regard it as a noble necessity, and I recommend you consider it in the near future. Here are four guiding thoughts. 1. "Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." — George Bernard Shaw. 2. "Only the strongest people have the pluck to change their minds, and say so, if they see they have been wrong in their ideas." —Enid Blyton. 3. "Sometimes, being true to yourself means changing your mind. Self changes, and you follow." —Vera Nazarian. 4. "The willingness to change one’s mind in the light of new evidence is a sign of rationality, not weakness." Stuart Sutherland.

ACROSS

1. The work of groan adults?

5. "Futurama" co-creator Groening

9. Actor B.D. of "Law & Order: SVU"

13. "Need ___?" (possible truck service tagline)

14. Push rudely

16. Food Network initialism

17. Bumble and Hinge, e.g.

19. "___ la vie!"

20. "Princess of Power" of Saturday mornings

21. Stereotypical event for fraternities in movies

23. Substack offering, maybe

25. Northwest Mexican state

26. Abbr. in a military address

28. Castle protectors

32. "Dang it!"

33. Fruit suitable for making pies (rather than, say, a Red Delicious)

36. Type of bar with mai tais

37. Finland-based communications company

38. French silk city

42. Ripping to shreds

45. On the ocean

47. Braying equines

48. "Go, team!"

49. Putin predecessor Medvedev

51. Slide on something slippery

53. Apparel for striking poses?

57. Come after

60. ___-Lenape (Delaware tribe)

61. Small spaces between areas, or what's represented in the long entries

63. The Weeknd, a.k.a. ___ Tesfaye

64. California berry farm founder

65. Yale students

66. Washington, D.C., baseball team, familiarly

67. Art sch. study

68. "Divorce Capital of the World," once

DOWN

1. Launching platforms

2. "Spiral Jetty" state

3. Small laptop

4. Soft serve machine option

5. Food additive initials

6. At the drop of ___

7. ___ Chico ("Agua Mineral" brand)

8. "Young Sheldon" rating

9. Ad tagline for the frustrated and confused

10. Put one ___ (fool)

11. ___ account (term for a bank's holding at a different bank)

12. "Now I understand"

15. Those things, in Spanish

18. Actress Watts

22. Table game

24. "Haters ___ hate"

26. Several scenes, sometimes

27. Luau dish

29. Ancient Greek gathering spot

30. Chips brand with a "Blue Heat" flavor

31. "Press Your Luck" turns

34. Attachments for a seaside hobby, perhaps

35. Volume count

39. Rummage event

40. Singer Rita

41. Furthest degree

43. Wild West Wyatt

44. Lopsided

45. One-celled protozoan

46. Official seal

49. "Blowin' in the Wind" singer

50. American, in England

52. Actress Stevens of '60s TV

54. Mom's mom, in some places

55. Sci-fi movie with a "Legacy" sequel

56. Mlle., in Monterrey

58. ___ arms

59. Old U.S. gas brand

62. Mel of baseball

"Do You Mind?" if you were on the London Underground. by Matt Jones

NORTHERN EXPRESS

CLASSIFIEDS

OTHER: SEWING, ALTERATIONS, MENDING & Repairs. Maple City, Maralene Roush 231228-6248

YACHT ROCK BAND: musicians needed. Lead singer/keyboardist in search of the smoothest backing band in Northern Michigan. Influences include, but not limited to; Hall & Oates, The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins, Steve Winwood, and Huey Lewis and The News. Email Chuck at chanew@gmail.com.

COTTAGE FOR RENT: Traverse City 1BR Cottage; Fully Furnished; Includes All Utilities; New Appliances; W/D; A/C; Cable; Very Nice; Quiet Setting; No Pets; $1,700 per month; (231) 631-7512.

PUNTA GORDA, FLORIDA RENTAL - BURNT STORE MARINA: Burnt Store Marina offers a waterfront restaurant, pickleball, golf courses, pool and fitness center. The full-Service marina has 525 deep-water boat slips. Boat rentals available or bring yours. The address is 3181 Matecumbe Key Rd, #12 Punta Gorda, FL 33955. Pictures available on Zillow. Contact our Realtor Sanjeev 941-286-8120. 'sramachandran@thomasryan'

THE PENINSULA MARKET STAFF NEEDS YOU!.............: Cashiers(must be over 18yrs) Prep and Pizza Cooks, Stockers w/projects,... NO Late Nights! Positions are P/T or F/T for the right individual(s) with open availability. In a nutshell, if your reliable, enthusiastic and love making others day better, Bring in your resume or do a quick application! We're located at: 14111 Center Road, Traverse City, Mi 49686

PAID PART-TIME WORK TRAINING FOR SENIORS 55+: For Seniors Age 55 and Over: Employment Specialist Trainee, Cashier, Stocking, Clerical Support. Applicants must be age 55 and over, unemployed, seeking work and meet program eligibility. Positions available in Traverse, Benzie, Manistee and surrounding counties. To find out if you qualify contact the AARP Foundation SCSEP office, 231-252-4544.

MAH JONGG CLASSES - BASIC AND STRATEGIES: Mah Jongg Classes with Barbara: Basic 4 Thursdays Oct 19-11/9; Strategies 4 Wednesdays 10/18-11/8, 1-4 PM. MiddleCoast Brewing Co. $45, preregister. 231-383-0803, ellives@aye.net

PRESBYTERIANCHURCH OF TC REQUEST

FOR PROPOSAL 2024: The Presbyterian Church of Traverse City is seeking local organizations in ministry to submit proposals by 11/1/2023 to receive grant monies.Our goal is to address critical needs in our community. Link for the non-profits: https://forms.gle/ yXRhJ1zdzFFkHT6Q7

NORTH HOPE CRISIS: NEW LOCATION

NOW OPEN! Help Those Experiencing a Mental Health Crisis by joining our direct care team. Sign on Bonus $1,000 - Starting pay $17 - Full Benefits start first day - Paid training provided – No experience needed. All shifts available. Contact Dana @ 616-260-7266 or dgrummet@hopenetwork.org

APARTMENT - CENTRAL NEIGHBORHOOD

- TRAVERSE CITY 2 bedroom, 1 bath - 900 sq ft. $1300/month. Heat included. Nice place, nice neighborhood, close to downtown. Newly updated: new floor, new refrigerator, new shower. Unfurnished. On-site parking. On-site laundry. Private storage shed on site. Call: Fish Properties, LLC. 231.946.0400 (M-F 8 am - 5 pm).

BATA IS HIRING - HR COORDINATOR BATA is hiring a Human Resources Coordinator and Drivers for immediate employment. Qualified HR candidates will possess strong communication and organizational skills and attention to detail is critical. BATA offers pay corresponding with prior experience and excellent benefits and a pension. Call 231-941-2324 or visit www.bata. net/batajobs.

BEAUTY IS THERAPY AT THE HISTORIC COMMONS

You and many of your friends have long been intrigued with the stories of the historic Traverse City State Hospital. Join the Friends of the Historic Commons as we celebrate this history through an afternoon of free informative sessions, including the option of a guided tour of Dr. Munson's original arboretum with Matthew Ross, Director of The Botanic Garden http:// friendsofhistoriccommons.org

Enthusiastic & Experienced

231-499-4249 | 231-929-7900

NEW LISTING

1560 Strasbourg, Traverse City • $725,000 • MLS# 1915977

Built in 2022, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home in desirable Verndale Estates. Natural light in the open kitchen, living room and dining room. Large walk-in pantry, built-in lockers, main floor laundry room and 3-car garage. Main floor primary bedroom with private bath and walk in closet. Upper level has 3 bedrooms, a Jack and Jill bathroom, large family room AND bonus area, plus an elevated view of East Bay in the distance! Enjoy the outdoors from the covered front porch or back deck.

Michael D. Harrison

231-633-2549

231-929-7900

Lot #25 Arrowhead Circle, Williamsburg

$75,000 • MLS# 1915996

A Golfers Dream! One of the best locations on The Bear golf course, designed by legendary golfer, Jack Nicklaus. Private setting with views over holes 10 & 11, in Arrowhead Estates. Walking distance of GT Resort activities: golf, restaurants & lounges, spa, pools, hot tubs, health club and more. Area of upscale homes. Take advantage of this opportunity to build your new dream home on the Bear golf course.

WEST SIDE LIVING!! Positioned in the popular Tyler Hills neighborhood, just minutes from downtown Traverse City, this ranch-style home, with main floor living, offers an open concept floor plan, three bedrooms, two baths, spacious living room, main floor laundry, two covered porches and a partially finished walk-out lower level. The spacious lower level includes a fourth bedroom, 3/4 bath and a family room perfect for entertaining family and friends.

2257 Tyler Hills Drive, Traverse City • $465,000 • MLS# 1915942