Issuu

Line 5 Time Running Out

Enbridge says it wants a Line 5 tunnel in the Mackinac Straits to protect the Great Lakes, or is it really for the profit? Governor Snyder allowed Enbridge to operate Line 5 until the tunnel was completed. Line 5 makes almost $2 million per day, so will earn Enbridge $8 billion since it proposed the tunnel in 2018 until its completion in 2031. Then Michigan must own the tunnel for 99 more years of Canadian oil, with 90 percent going to Sarnia.

Enbridge skips over the danger of building the tunnel, as though it already existed. The tunnel will repair only four of Line 5’s 645 miles. Enbridge also skips over Line 5’s other 641 miles that have leaked 35 times. The coast guard considers the 90 miles along US2 in the UP at highest risk for a spill. The tunnel bandaid is meant to keep all of Line 5 going.

Enbridge claims a tunnel will protect the Great Lakes, when it actually does the opposite. Boring an untried 20-foot diameter tunnel directly below still-operating Line 5 is a recipe for disaster. Currents in the Mackinac Straits endanger 700 miles of shoreline. Methane pockets risk explosion, like 1971’s Lake Huron tunnel disaster. But even if nothing went wrong, just building a tunnel would harm Michigan’s environment and tourist economy as traffic congestion, huge cranes and bentonite waste slurry turn our water wonderland into a six-year construction nightmare.

Enbridge should not get to decide the fate of the Great Lakes. Michigan’s last chance to end Enbridge exploitation is to stop Line 5 today. Input on the tunnel permit is open until June 30 at EGLE-Public-Comments@ Michigan.gov. Urge Governor Whitmer to protect the Great Lakes for Michigan, for the tribes, indeed, for the world.

Barbara Stamiris | Traverse City

The Miracle in Philly

A friend and I just completed a 250year celebration road trip from Yorktown to Lexington. We were in the footsteps of history in Yorktown, Williamsburg, Monticello, Saratoga, Valley Forge, West Point, Philadelphia, Boston, and Lexington. Our tour guides shared stories emphasizing the difficulties endured by our forefathers.

Taxation by the British was the spark that ignited the Revolution. The colonials were significantly out-manned and lacked resources. They were motivated first to fight for tax relief and then to win independence. Adding to their difficulties was the schism of 13 separate colonies that were independently governed.

However, a miracle occurred in Philly as the Constitution’s framers gathered and discussed slavery, finances, federal versus states’ rights, and the balance of power. Ben Franklin and George Washington were the primary miracle workers. Due to their leadership and earned respect, their emphasis on “We” versus “Me” prevailed. Another miracle is that our democracy has lasted for 250 years. It has been tested many times with a Civil War, two World Wars, and the current extreme divisions driven by the “Me” leader. Can we uphold the honor of our forefathers without a miracle? Yes, “We” can!

Gary Muller | Bellaire

What I Left Unsaid

EGLE has not yet published a recording of June 18th’s hearing on reissuing Enbridge’s NPDES discharge permit. While I appreciated getting to speak, there was much I wish I said during my three minutes beyond or instead of that.

First, I wanted to urge those opposing the tunnel to help those in favor understand all risks. For business owners, job seekers, and people needing fuel, money talks. Someone needed to put a definite price tag on damage the discharge, and other parts of the tunnel project, could cause during and after construction, and how many more jobs decommissioning Line 5 would create and save.

Second, I wish I had offered more solutions. Perhaps convenience stores could supply fuel from atmospheric CO₂ via renewable energy-powered machines; information is at aircela.com. I would also have urged people then, as I do now, to contact their state leaders and national representatives to pass bills that would improve transportation, the electric grid, and energy buildout, like the Railway Safety Act, or state House Bill 5764, which improves permitting for plug-in balcony solar panels.

Whether before or after the June 30 comment deadline, I hope this helps going forward somehow.

Emily Baker | Traverse City

One Brazen Monkey

All it takes to test the strength of an ordinance, law, or Constitution and turn the USA into what it is today is one brazen monkey and a collective citizenship turning a blind eye.

Consider plastering road right of ways with illegal signs that advertise yard sales, businesses, politics, charities, etc. Legally, the surface width of road right of ways “float” over land, beneath which is land owned by the deeded property owners. Signs by others are illegally trespassing on private property and have become a costly hazard to control.

Currently, a distillery, barber shop, and roofing company decided to place signs on my property. The audacity of the sign owners to think they can plop something on my property without my permission raises my hackles. People tell me they think I’m recommending these companies and I don’t even know them. Would the distillery owner like it if I planted a Storm Cloud Brewery sign in front of the distillery’s place of business? The signs need to be moved every time grass is mowed.

MDOT, the road commission, and public maintenance departments say the signs are the “bane” of their job, and they can’t keep up with removing them. The emboldened distillery now has its sign on a 4x4 wooden post. MDOT has confirmed that because “one monkey” got away with it, “other monkeys” are planting 4x4 posts. iPhones and GPS negates the need for signs. If owners of these signs are willing to steal from the value of your private property to avoid paying for advertising, they are probably willing to steal from you when you patronize whatever they are advertising.

Thelma Rider | Frankfort

Correction: The June 15 issue of the Express had an error in our Summer Music Guide. Music at the Harbor in Elk Rapids is not running this year.

Northern Express Weekly is published by Eyes Only Media, LLC.

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

Editor: Jillian Manning

Creative Director: Kyra Cross Poehlman Finance Manager: Libby Shutler

Sales: Lisa Gillespie, Kim Murray, Kaitlyn Nance, Abby Walton Porter, Michele Young For ad sales in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne & Charlevoix, call (231) 838-6948

Contributors: Ross Boissoneau, Art Bukowski, Molly Cox, Anna Faller, Kierstin Gunsberg, Beth Milligan, Rachel Pasche, Stephen Tuttle, Todd VanSickle

Distribution: Marc Morris, Gerald Morris, Dave Anderson, Joe Evancho, Jason Ritter, Sherri Ritter, Roger Racine, Sarah Racine, Brandy Grames, Rachel Cara, Jackson Price, Lisa Price, Peggy Bell

Listings Editor: Jamie Kauffold

Gym Related Activities! Current tenant (month to month) is utilizing the lower level (some lab space), and approx. 2/3's of the main floor. The owner is using approx. 1/3 of the main floor & shared common areas. Owner leaseback is negotiable or buyer could use the entire building if needed. Many individual offices of various sizes. Close to Munson Hospital surrounded by a variety of Medical Practices. Virtual tour Online –MLS# 1919691 - $1,499,000.

–MLS# 1919691 - $1,499,000.

top ten

Fireworks Up North

With Fourth of July just around the corner, folks will be flocking to shows across northern Michigan. True pyrotechnic fanatics will want to hunker down in Mackinaw City, where you can expect weekly Saturday night fireworks in addition to the Fourth of July celebration. Earlier in the week, catch the Leland Independence Day fireworks at Hancock Field and Shanty Creek’s America 250 fireworks display, both on July 3. For festival double headers, the National Cherry Festival will have a show from the Traverse City Boom Boom Club on July 4, followed by a festival finale on July 11, while the Manistee Forest Festival will have fireworks July 3 and 4 . On July 4 itself, you can find shows in almost every town: Cadillac (part of the Cadillac Freedom Festival), Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Gaylord, Beulah, and many more.

A Local Family Tale 2

Family secrets, chronic illness, the search for truth and forgiveness…author Kimberly Warner discusses her book Unfixed in a conversation with her uncle, acclaimed local filmmaker Rich Brauer. When Warner discovered the identity of her biological father after years of unanswered questions, she uncovered unexpected family connections and a story rooted deeper in northern Michigan. Get the full story on Wednesday, July 1, at the Old Art Building in Leland at 6pm. A wine reception will be held at 5:30pm. Free; register at lelandlibrary.org/unfixed

Hey, Read It! The Pillagers’ Guide to Arctic Pianos

When the Spahr family’s ancestors left society behind to settle the Territory of the Arctic, they were promised a life of peace and civility, which was symbolized by the family piano. Decades later, solitude is still par for the course in their glacial bubble—a stilted house on a frozen fjord, a floater plane, and a farm of aquatic animals are all part of the picture—but, civility has long been replaced by the feral skills of permawinter homesteading. That is, until young Finley Spahr nearly drowns while trying to reclaim the Napoleon, a long since sunken heirloom instrument, whose golden hammers could be the key to securing their future for generations. What follows is the adventure-studded saga of one family’s fight for survival amid both the sub-arctic elements and one another, which Kendra Langford Shaw’s debut novel, and wholly immersive technicolor.

Leave yourself room—both timing and stomach-wise—when you roll into The Good Bowl for Sunday Dim Sum. That’s because seating can be at a premium on this popular restaurant day. But once you’ve got a pencil in hand and order form in front of you, the choices are endless, and you’ll want to try plenty. No dim sum is complete without dumplings, with options here ranging from spicy pork-and-shrimp dumplings to elegant edamame dumplings in a mushroom broth. The crispy spring rolls and fluffy bao buns are both classics, while the caramelized ribs and crispy brussels sprouts offer delightful bites for both meat and veggie lovers. Finish it all off with jian dui, a popular Chinese dessert of fried sesame balls paired with vanilla ice cream. Enjoy Sunday Dim Sum from 11am-7pm at 328 East Front Street in Traverse City. goodbowleatery.com

Stuff

Love: Dunes and Dogs

Mineral Springs Park in downtown Frankfort is about to turn into an outdoor art gallery on July 4 from 10am-4pm! Part of Frankfort’s summer arts and crafts fairs, Art in the Park brings together dozens of artists just steps away from the Betsie Valley Trail and downtown Frankfort. Per their website, you’ll find an “eclectic mix of handcrafted jewelry, woodcrafts, and unique home and garden decor.” When not shopping for your new favorite work of art, enjoy other Fourth of July activities like a parade (10am on Main Street), a sandcastle-building contest (12-2pm at Frankfort Beach), and a live DJ playing near the Frankfort Pier starting at 7pm, after which there will be a firework finale for the day at dusk! Get all the details at frankfortdowntown.com/events.

Last November, Lawrence (Larry) Boyd IV, a Traverse City parking services employee, was shot and killed on the job. But his friends and family are not letting tragedy have the last word and instead are coming together for a Dunes and Dogs memorial fundraiser on Thursday, July 2, in Glen Arbor. The event will celebrate some of Larry’s favorite passions, with a bike ride, kayaking adventures, a scavenger hunt, and even a dog costume contest. Proceeds of the event will benefit the Great Lakes Humane Society and Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes. The celebration begins at 11am, with check-in for the pups at Township Park at 1pm, and goes until 4pm. The requested donation to participate in the bike ride is $30 (includes event t-shirt) and $20 for the dog walk/parade (includes custom bandana). Keep up to date on the latest by searching “Larry’s Dunes and Dogs” on Facebook for the event page.

Speaking of fireworks, this is your PSA to follow a few important safety rules. First, be extra careful with pets over the weekend, as dogs especially are prone to run away, making the Fourth one of the most dangerous times of the year for pets. Safely secure pets who are frightened by fireworks, make sure their microchips are active, and use other safety precautions like breakaway collars. Second, before making anything go boom, check your local burn permits to see if your area is experiencing drought—in which case, no fireworks. And finally, only set off fireworks on private property (not streets, sidewalks, parks, beaches, etc.) June 29 to July 5 between 11am and 11:45pm. If you do partake at home, make sure you’re well away from structures, wooded areas, your neighbors—anything that could conceivably catch fire. Or, you know, just head to one of the spots listed above to let the pros put on a show.

This summer, we’re bringing the beach party vibes—and the probiotics!—with the No Proof, All Fun mocktail at The Little Fleet in Traverse City! Built around layers of tropical flavor, this breezy bevvy combines passionfruit puree with Coco López (the quintessential cream of coconut) and a tangy undercurrent of spiced pineapple shrub, aka drinking vinegar, which the bar crafts in house from fresh pineapple, apple cider vinegar, raw sugar, and a touch of warming allspice and cinnamon. Served over ice with a splash of soda and topped with dehydrated pineapple and grated nutmeg, it’s all things creamy, bright, and refreshing—in short, a perfect NA summer sip. (Bonus: it also goes with just about all of The Little Fleet’s onsite eats!) Fun in the sun awaits at 448 E Front St. in Traverse City. thelittlefleet.com.

Art in the Park in Frankfort

Pictured, Larry with his dog.

WANNA BET?

spectator By steven Tuttle

If you’d like to make a wager on just about anything, you now have ample opportunity to do so. You can go to a local casino or just pick up your phone or computer, and risktaking is right there at your fingertips.

Gambling used to be the purview of casinos in Nevada or Atlantic City or your local, neighborhood bookie. Casino gambling required some genuine effort, as you had to actually get to the casino. Yes, those places were controlled by some unsavory folks as they developed, crooked politicians greasing the skids for even more crooked and far more dangerous gangsters. Eventually, corporate America realized there was money

In 1919, the World Series was marred by a cheating scandal involving the Chicago White Sox, some of whom were paid to play poorly. Shoeless Joe Jackson, one of the great hitters in baseball history, was caught up in the scandal and, along with several of his teammates, banned from baseball for life. (It should be noted Jackson and the seven teammates accused with him were tried but acquitted of all charges.)

In the 1950s, it was point-shaving in college basketball in which players from a dozen colleges and universities were accused or admitted to accepting bribes to manipulate basketball scores.

The National Council on Problem Gambling reports a 56 percent increase in calls for help since just 2023.

to be made, lots of it, without the chicanery and skimming associated with the industry. Soon, along came lotteries, and everybody could gamble from the convenience of some local store. In 1994, Antigua and Barbuda started the first offshore gambling casino, inviting us all to play via computer or phone. Congress did not like the “offshore” part of that and tried to rein it in, but things changed dramatically in 2010 when Nevada started online gambling for everything but sports. (They still had in-house sports books, just not online.)

Just a year later, our Department of Justice decided the Federal Wire Act of 1961 actually applied only to betting on sports and virtually all other online gambling became legal. Then, in 2018, the Supreme Court of the United States struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act saying the federal government could not force the states to enforce it. As a result, states could allow online gambling, including on sports, and 30 states now allow sports betting online.

You can bet on pretty much any aspect of any sport. Will that golfer make that putt? Will the next pitch be a strike? Who will score the most points in the second quarter? How many aces will be served in the Wimbledon final? In what round will the knockout occur? There is really no limit to what kinds of gambles you can take, and we take a lot.

The American Gaming Association says Americans bet somewhere between $22 billion and $30 billion last year, a 26 percent increase from 2024. About half of that was wagered on sports. Maybe you can see the potential problem here.

Wagering on sports has always existed. One assumes there was wagering on chariot races and gladiator fights, but until recently, it wasn’t legal unless you were at the sports book of a casino. And it has always been a potential problem.

Professional sports leagues and the NCAA became so paranoid about the potential of gambling destroying the integrity of multiple sports that betting on games in your league or conference was treated with nearly the same harsh consequence as performance enhancing drug use was. Joe Namath was once suspended from the NFL not because he engaged in gambling but because he owned a bar some shady characters frequented.

Pete Rose, the all-time leader for base hits in major league baseball, was banned for having bet on games as both a player and manager. (Rose, who died in 2024, has now been reinstated by the MLB.)

In what may be the ultimate abuse, quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who played at Indiana and Cincinnati before transferring to Texas Tech, has acknowledged placing 90,000 wagers—that’s not a typo—while a college athlete, including on his own team. (Sorsby has since withdrawn from Texas Tech.)

Gambling has been an issue for lots of non-athletes, too. The National Council on Problem Gambling reports a 56 percent increase in calls for help since just 2023. And according to The Guardian, participation in Gamblers Anonymous meetings has increased tenfold this decade.

Debt.org says the average male with a gambling addiction or problem owes between $55,000 and $90,000 in losses, and the average female owes about $15,000. About 20 percent of compulsive gamblers file for bankruptcy, but nearly all report they have taken cash advances from their credit card or even taken money from their retirement accounts or a child’s college fund

The next gambling scandal could be in sports or politics—it’s just a keystroke away. You can bet on it.

GUEST OPINION

by Cathye Williams

Food truck season is upon us. Glorious glorious summer food. From Manistee to Marquette and plenty of places in between, we are dining alfresco, and washing it down with local offerings of beer, wine, soda, and cider. Whether they honed their skills at culinary school or their grandma’s kitchen, our Michigan street chefs bring a lot to the picnic table.

I’m thankful for a country where so many foodways have found a home, and thankful for the neighbors who brought them. Some recipes travel with intrepid newcomers seeking adventure, while others arrive tossed in with the hastily gathered belongings of people leaving their homes to flee hardship and strife.

However they come here, their journey goes into the food they prepare. It’s a longing for home that translates into care for the ingredients and for the person who

Those of us lucky to have access to all that, not to mention local honey, eggs, and meat, are blessed. Our food can come in colors right from the field, not always dull from a store long after it was picked. To also have someone willing to slice, saute, roast, or wrap it for us is just gravy.

Sadly, between these food oases there can be miles of food deserts, with no grocers, let alone farm markets. If there is any food, it’s likely to be a fast food restaurant or a convenience store. The lack of access to nutritious food is linked to many factors, not least of which is industrial scale farming that concentrates control over our food system in the hands of powerful agribusinesses.

These are behemoth corporations that operate on immense tracts of land. Their “farming” methods strip the soil of all that would support healthy growth, and

When you have a choice, choose the colorful food, grown by a farmer who’s not too far away, whose work builds the soil that feeds the food that feeds you.

will eat it. That longing may fade or it may not, but I believe the care never does. It’s traveled from Cuba and Lebanon, Poland and Korea, Ethiopia and Mexico, to feed people well.

While I enjoy food in any setting, there’s an immediacy to street food that sets it apart. Maybe it’s the tight space that intensifies things. It forces the cook to choose ingredients wisely, arrange them just so, and use simple steps, all to get the flavors to your mouth at their peak and in the nick of time to keep the line moving. Food truck lovers are often on the go, grabbing a bite on their way to or from something else. But you can slow down and be social around the truck too, with strangers sharing tables, tastes, and stories.

Like the diversity of the people, their knowledge, and skills, Michigan street food culture also reflects the diversity of the agriculture around it. Menus are scrawled on a chalkboard for a reason. While vendors may have a signature dish or two, they’re also ready to change things up, depending on what made it to market that day. They use what’s fresh at hand while they can.

It might start with spring ramps and mushrooms. Then come young peas and crunchy radishes. Next it’s all the asparagus you can eat until about now, followed by the parade of berries—a new one every month. Of course at the same time there’s greens and beans and carrots and squash and corn and you name it, until October rolls in with apples and pumpkins.

then add petroleum based and chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides to grow too much of one commodity in too small an area.

Its goal is maximum production and profit. Our dependence on these methods for so much of our food supply is making us sick. Our food lacks the nourishment our body needs and is filled with additives we don’t need that contribute to diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic diseases

Good food depends on diversity in the soil and the plants and creatures living in and on it. Getting there from where we are is a big problem to solve. It’s going to take a movement and many smart people to do it.

But we don’t have to wait for the big stuff to do better for each other on the way. When you have a choice, choose the colorful food, grown by a farmer who’s not too far away, whose work builds the soil that feeds the food that feeds you. Support and promote programs that give others the chance to do this, such as Double Up Food Bucks, and Northwest Michigan Food Rescue.

When you eat out, try food from a truck that someone has put their journey and their history into. Then build a community with people who value this too, one picnic table conversation at a time.

Cathye Williams is a local climate activist. She writes from the northern corner of Manistee County.

Your Tax Dollars at Work

A recently released video from the Pasadena Police Department shows one officer shooting another during what Police Chief Gene Harris categorized as "unsafe and out-of-policy horseplay." On June 15, the Los Angeles Times reported that during the incident, which occurred on Sept. 7, 2025, a police cruiser entered a department parking garage, where two uniformed officers were standing near a police SUV. In a move described as "inappropriate," one of the standing officers drew his handgun and pointed it at the cruiser before putting it away and smiling with his fellow officer. In response, the driver drew his own weapon, which discharged and hit the first officer in the shoulder. That officer has since recovered from his injuries, and the one who discharged his weapon is no longer with the department. The incident sparked an internal investigation, and the video was kept under wraps to protect the integrity of the investigation. It was released only after new evidence came to light that led to additional officers being put on leave. "This type of unprofessional behavior is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated," Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo said. "The police chief assures me the incident has been thoroughly investigated and appropriate discipline taken, and I support the chief's decisions." [LA Times, 6/15/26]

Artsy Fartsy

A pop-up museum in Paris is taking an unusual approach, The Seattle Times reported on June 16. Rather than offering visitors visually pleasing paintings or sculptures, the Pont Neuf Cavern aims to stimulate guests' sense of smell. French street artist JR -- the French Banksy -- is behind the new installation on the Pont Neuf Bridge, Paris' oldest bridge, completed in 1607. As visitors enter the artificial cavern, they're met with the smell of petrichor, carefully crafted by olfactory expert Sarah Bouasse. "Usually I cross here without looking up once," said 67-year-old retiree Michel Dupre. "Today I felt the stones under my feet. And smelled them too. It makes you walk like a child again." The smells progress as visitors make their way through the tunnel, and a soundscape by Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk and digital art by JR round out the experience. The exhibition will close June 28. Until then, admission is free, and visitors can enter any time of day or night. [Seattle Times, 6/16/26]

Barbie’s Dreamhouse

One Scottish woman's home has become a local attraction after she decorated it to look like Barbie's Dreamhouse, the Mirror reported on June 9. Nicole Watt, 27, of Carluke, Scotland, says she was inspired by the Barbie fans in her life: her three young daughters. Watt says she spent six months and 5,000 pounds on the transformation, which included a Barbiethemed mannequin, palm tree, dressing table, surfboard, pink disco ball, flamingos and beach toys. She had some help, though: "The girls' papa and gran made the house, the surfboards, pantries, lampposts and palm trees -- everything Barbie requires," Watt said. The display was constructed as part of a local community celebration day, and she plans to take it down as soon as

the scaffolding needed for the dismantling arrives, though her children would prefer otherwise. "They don't want it to go down," Watt said. "They think they can invite their friends over and stay there." Locals have been largely supportive of the display, with some even driving by to take photos, and the home has gone viral on social media. "This has been a lovely effort for her girls and the neighborhood," one commenter said. "Surely she doesn't have to take it down yet. It's so bright and cheerful." [The Mirror, 6/9/26]

I Just Play One on TV

Derek Schaufus, 30, of Palm Bay, Florida, was arrested on June 8 for obstruction by a disguised person and practicing law without a license, WKMG News 6 reported on June 11. Back in April, officers in Brevard County pulled over a woman during a traffic stop and discovered a controlled substance in her car. The woman called a friend of a friend, who claimed he was a lawyer. Enter Schaufus, who appeared on the scene in a suit and tie, claiming to be certified to practice law in both Georgia and Florida, and attempting to negotiate a deal for his "client." He could not, however, produce his credentials when officers pressed him. Further investigation revealed that Schaufus was, in fact, not a lawyer, and he was placed under arrest. [WKMG News 6, 6/11/26]

Banana Chip Bandit

Annette Nichols, 59, of Vero Beach, Florida, was arrested following a crime spree that lasted weeks, The Smoking Gun reported on June 9. Her charge? Stealing $300 worth of banana chips from two different Publix supermarkets. "It should be important to note that due to this ongoing theft of banana chips, [the Publix deli manager] has limited the amount of banana chip stock he puts on the shelf," the arrest affidavit said. Nichols allegedly stole 13 bags of chips altogether by simply not scanning them when she used the supermarkets' self-checkout stations to pay for her other groceries. Nichols was convicted in 2024 for retail theft from a nearby Walmart. After her most recent arrest, she was released from jail after paying the $150 bond on the misdemeanor charge. [The Smoking Gun, 6/9/26]

Kayaking Under the Influence

A 63-year-old man from Canada's Northwest Territories has been charged with impaired operation of a vessel and refusal to provide a breath sample after being caught trying to kayak while drunk. In what the RCMP call a "bizarre incident," the man allegedly stole a kayak and used a snow shovel to paddle around Lake Marion, the CBC reported on June 12. The kayak's owner alerted police about the missing vessel, and when police arrived, they found the man in the water, evidently too intoxicated to make it to shore himself. They rescued him from the water, then promptly arrested him. "On the water, the risks are higher; conditions can change quickly, there's limited equipment, and response times are often longer, which makes these incidents especially dangerous for both those involved and for emergency responders," RCMP Cpl. Kevin Kim said. [CBC News, 6/12/26]

10 w ays to s pend y our Fourt H o F July w eekend in n ort H ern Mi CH igan

By Molly Cox

Do you like to spend Independence Day going to a traditional, small-town parade during the day and a fireworks display in the evening? Or perhaps you prefer something more low-key, like a 5k and relaxing morning perusing local produce at the farmers market? We compiled 10 events happening across northern Michigan to suit any preference.

1. Crystal Mountain’s s tar s pangled Celebrations

July 2-July 5

Prices vary

All Ages

Thompsonville

Crystal Mountain is pulling out all the stops for Fourth of July weekend. In addition to a slew of daily family activities, you can catch fireworks on July 2; a family golf scramble, sidewalk sales, a bike and golf cart parade, and a BBQ on July 3; and a fun run 5k on July 4. crystalmountain.com/events-activities/events/ event-calendar/star-spangled-celebrations

2. aM eri C a 250 Ho M etown b lo C k party

July 3, 5p M -8p M

Free

All Ages

Downtown Petoskey

Kick off the weekend at this community celebration featuring a picnic, live entertainment, and games for the whole family. Look forward to summer treats like ice cream, watermelon, and smores, as well as live performances from The Charlie Millard band and stunt performer Clark Lewis. petoskeyfourth.org/schedule/america-250block-party

3. Fort Mi CH ili M a C kina C Fire at n ig H t

July 3, 9pM

Free with ticket

All Ages

Head to Colonial Michilimackinac for a bright sight—weapons from the fort lighting up the night! Rifle firing will start at dusk, and cannon firing will be after dark. Tickets to the fort are $17.50 ages 13 and up; $10.50 ages 5-12; 4 and under free. mackinacparks.com/event/michilimackinacfire-at-night-4/2026-07-03/

4. Central lake ViCtory4Veterans 5k

July 4, 9a M

$35-$45

All Ages

Downtown Central Lake

This road race is an out-and-back course. All proceeds support the Central Lake Veterans Center AmVets, Post 6986. Packet pickup and same day registration will be at the downtown pavilion 7:30-8:30am the morning of the race. Early registration closes July 3 at 8am, and it’s $45 to register on race day (cash only).

centrallakevictory4veterans5k.itsyourrace. com/event.aspx?id=15159

5. b oyne City Far M ers Market

July 4, 8a M -12p M

Free

All Ages

Stock up on picnic and grilling provisions at the Boyne City Farmers Market in Old City Park. Some of northern Michigan’s most talented farmers, bakers, entrepreneurs, and artists create a market unlike any other in the region. Live music brightens up the morning, starting at 10am.

boynecityfarmersmarket.org/event/outdoorfarmers-market-at-old-city-park

6. g reat l akes p iping p lo V er tour daily, 10-11:30a M

$60

All Ages

Experience Michigan’s only Great Lakes Piping Plover Tour in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Led by an expert naturalist guide and former park ranger, this guided wildlife walking experience offers respectful viewing of a federally protected endangered species. $10 from your tour aids Great Lakes Piping Plover conservation sleepingbeartourco.com/plover

7. 90t H a nnual Manistee n ational Forest Festi Val

July 1-5

Free

All Ages

Manistee’s Forest Festival spans five days and includes a festival marketplace, midway carnival, Independence Day parade, lumberjack show, sandcastle story time, fireworks over Lake Michigan, and more. manisteeforestfestival.com/manisteenational-forest-festival-event-schedulemanistee-michigan

8. Jo H annesburg 4t H o F July Fireworks and parade

July 4

Free

All Ages

Johannesburg, located just a short drive east of Gaylord, boasts a dazzling fireworks display and annual parade. The parade will

be at 3pm and fireworks will begin at 10pm (dusk) in downtown.

gaylordmichigan.net/event/johannesburg4th-of-july-fireworks-and-parade

9. world’s l argest C H erry p ie e ating Contest

July 4, 1-4p M

Free

All Ages

Charlevoix

Celebrate 50 years since Charlevoix set a world record for the largest cherry pie with an event featuring the original chef and other participants from the record breaking that day! Along with the pie eating contest, the event will feature a best-in-pie judging, music, historical photos, and more. visitcharlevoix.com/events/cherry-pieanniversary

10. Vineyard Vibes at aurora Cellars

July 5, 6-9:30pM

Free

All Ages

Unwind on Sunday with a familyfriendly evening at Aurora Cellars winery. One Hot Robot, a 13-year Grand Traverse favorite known for genre-blurring dancerock and high-energy parties, will provide the entertainment. Aurora wine and cider by the glass, non-alcoholic drinks, mini charcuterie boards, and ice cream treats will be available for purchase. leelanauchamber.com/events/vineyard-vibesmusic-event-at-aurora-cellars

100 ye A rs of cherries

A look b A ck At some of the biggest moments in c herry f estivA l history

By Todd VanSickle

The National Cherry Festival has been around four times longer than the average lifespan of a Montmorency cherry tree.

This year, the annual eight-day Traverse City event will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Over the years, the celebration has treated festivalgoers to air shows, a world record, a slew of musical performers, and presidential visits, to name a few highlights.

“We have an amazing history timeline on our website, which is what I revert to often, to show me what we did and where we come from,” says Cherry Festival Executive Director Kat Paye. “Because, obviously, I am not 100 years old myself, and I was not here for the first ones.”

(To be fair, Paye has been with the festival for a long time. She first started with the National Cherry Festival when she was eight years old as a volunteer. She eventually became a board member and was hired on as staff in 2012 and then became the executive director in 2016.)

Paye says the National Cherry Festival’s historic timeline starts with a debate over when the Festival officially started—1925 or 1926? Since the 75th anniversary was celebrated 25 years ago, organizers deemed this year as the 100th.

“I'm not going to change timelines,” says Paye. “That was before my time. We are honoring tradition with this, because previous historical markers were made and happened that we’ve continued on.”

The Early Years

The first National Cherry Queen was Gertrude Brown crowned in 1925, while the Blessing of the Blossoms Festival

officially started on May 25, 1925, but dates back as early as 1909.

“The Blessing of the Blossoms still happens to this day out on Old Mission Peninsula, usually in May, and it’s usually at Chateau Chantal,” Paye says. “They actually do bring in the blossoms and bless them to have a fruitful harvest. We still attend and it is a beautiful celebration of where the heritage started.”

In 1926, the one-day National Cherry Festival officially started. By 1968, the Festival grew to an eight-day celebration that it is today.

The Air Show Tradition

In 1978, the Cherry Festival officially hosted its first big air show by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. However, festivalgoers’ love affair for the skies started much earlier.

“We’ve recently looked at all of our history and learned that there were some planes that were flying far earlier than 1978,” says Paye.

In 1931, high winds from a severe thunderstorm blew the Goodyear blimp Puritan into its mooring mast during the Cherry Festival. No one was reported hurt.

A highlight of the 1948 Festival was a U.S. Army anti-aircraft searchlight demonstration at night. The massive 800-million candlepower beam lit up the sky over Grand Traverse Bay, locking onto an airplane flying 20,000 feet overhead as amazed spectators watched the pilot attempt daring evasive maneuvers.

It was also reported that festivalgoers cheered on an exciting Coast Guard rescue demonstration in the bay. Two guardsmen in a rubber raft signaled their

location using flares and dye markers before being swiftly rescued by a Coast Guard floatplane in a dramatic display that captivated the crowd, Paye tells us.

The Cherry Record

In 1987, Traverse City set a Guinness World Record for the largest cherry pie baked for 35,000 festivalgoers. The pie weighed 28,350 pounds and was 17 feet, 6 inches in diameter.

The TC pie bested a pie baked in Charlevoix, which held the record since 1976. Traverse City held the record until 1990 until a larger pie was baked in Oliver, British Columbia.

Today, the massive Traverse City pie tin is on display outside the Sara Lee Bakery on Cass Street.

The Presidents

The Cherry Festival has had two presidential visits during its history. In 1930, Cherry Queen Signe Holmer flew to Washington, DC, to meet President Herbert Hoover and present him an eighty-pound cherry pie and extend an invitation to the Cherry Festival. He later would attend the opening ceremony.

In 1975, President Gerald Ford served as the Grand Marshal for The Cherry Royale Parade, which broke the all-time record with 180 entries and was attended by more than 300,000 people.

“President Biden was here, but did not attend the festival,” says Paye. “But he was here during the festival, which made travel questionable. All day we were like are we shutting down, or are we not? We were working with Secret Service for many days trying to determine if they were coming or if they were not.”

The Darker Years

It hasn’t always been smooth sailing for the annual celebration of cherries. In 1942-47, there were no cherry celebrations due to World War II.

“I think a lot of it had to do with the idea that it was not really a time for that kind of celebration,” Paye says. “Part of it is just that there were needs elsewhere.”

In 2020, the Cherry Festival was scaled back and readjusted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The celebration consisted mostly of virtual activities and social distancing events, like the porch parade and Festival in a Box.

“We did a great job of trying to keep the spirit of family, free, fun events alive, while we couldn’t be all together,” Paye says. “We still continued as if those years counted towards the 100, because in 1942 to 47 they counted those years.”

Favorite Memories

Garrett Boursaw handles logistics for the National Cherry Festival. His involvement with the event dates back more than 30 years. Looking back on the event, he says it is the little things that stick out the most in his memories.

“It’s a lot of small, little memories that you just look back and kind of smile and laugh,” he says. “Funny stuff that’s happened that just puts a smile on my face.”

In 1995, Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band performed at the Cherry Festival, but Boursaw remembers being 12 years old as the Old Mission Elementary Prince in the Cherry Festival Parade.

“I remember when I was the prince, we had a huge storm,” says the sixth-

generation Old Mission Peninsula native. “Going down the parade route when the kids’ parade was during the day—it was like 100 degrees.”

Another memory Boursaw recalls is the record-breaking longest cherry ice cream sundae served at the Open Space in 2001. The 320-feet ice cream treat was gone in 20 minutes. The following year it was extended to 500 feet long.

“We served it all through the Open Space,” he says. “It was massive.”

Boursaw says the Cherry Festival has been more than just a job for him, but a

true way to make lasting connections in the community.

“I look at my social circles and I can link them all back to either two things: my college or the National Cherry Festival organization,” he says. “It’s been the people and friendships that make it easy to keep coming back. It takes a lot of work and it takes a lot of effort to make sure that stuff runs smoothly and guests are having a great time. My roles are not really seen or have a direct impact on the public, but I guess I’m part of making history and people’s memories.”

The 100-Year Timeline

1925: First National Cherry Queen Gertrude Brown

1925: The first blessing of the blossoms

1926: National Cherry Festival officially founded

1929: The Festival grew from 1 to 2 days

1932: The City Commission of Traverse City proclaimed that only cherry desserts could be eaten during the festival. Anyone caught with strawberry shortcake or lemon meringue pie was subject to a $100 fine or 30 days in jail.

1942-47: No Cherry Festivals due to World War II

1947: Traverse City celebrates centennial

1962: The special Parade of Marching Bands starts, later becoming the Cherryland Band Classic

1964: Cherry Festival expands to a five-day celebration. The week of July 6 is proclaimed as “National Cherry Festival Week.”

1968: The festival grows from 5 to 8 days

1970: Kchi Wiikwedong Anishinaabek Pow Wow starts as a parade

1975: President Gerald Ford is Grand Marshal for The Cherry Royale Parade

1977: The ambassador program grows from 50 to 550 by 1979. Today there are more than 2,000 ambassadors.

1978: Thunderbirds first visit

1980: First recipient of the Industry Person of the year award goes to Charles Kesner of Suttons Bay for his work as the director of the MSU Northwest Michigan Horticultural Research Station.

1987: Traverse City sets world record by baking world’s largest cherry pie

1988: U.S. Navy Blue Angels first visit

1989: Pin Program starts “Go for the Gold”

1990s: The National Cherry Festival Bayside Beach Volleyball Tournament begins

2004: The American Amateur Sports Organization International World Cup Beach Volleyball Competition is held

2014: Mascot official debut: Super Cherry

2020: Virtual events held only due to the pandemic

2021: Condensed Cherry Festival, no air show.

2026: First drone show

Cherry Festiva L

Cherry Lover’s e dition

FOODIE FUN AT THE FESTIVAL

By Rachel Pasche

The National Cherry Festival can be a foodie paradise—assuming you enjoy cherries, of course. Traverse City’s famous fruit is the star of the show and takes center stage for the entire week, featuring in pies, contests, tours, markets, jams, salsas, pancakes, and more.

This year, Edmondson Farms, located on Old Mission Peninsula, is hosting a booth at the Cherry Farm Market, where they’ll be selling some of the early sweet cherry crop. Hallstedt Homestead Cherries, based in Northport, will also participate, showcasing its new cherry vinegar and other products. Many of the cherries for this year’s festival are grown on Old Mission Peninsula or on the Leelanau Peninsula, though the cherries used in the baked goods are often imported, since those cherry varieties used in cooking aren’t in season yet.

We spoke with some other local farms, including Gallagher’s Farm and King Orchards, to learn more about the cherry crop. So far, the farmers say it looks like it’ll be a good year for sweet cherries (the outlook for tarts is a bit less rosy). Barring any wild weather, there will be U-Pick opportunities available at farms that have cherries ready, including Edmondson Orchards, King Orchards, Hallstedt Homestead Cherries, Morrison Farms, and more.

When you’re ready to nosh on more cherry goodies, we’ve rounded up a schedule of the best food-based festival events below.

JUL y 4

Sara Hardy Farmers Market, 7:30am–12pm

There’s more than just cherries at the Sara Hardy Farmers Market! This weekly market takes place at the Old Town Parking Deck during the Cherry Festival. Shoppers can find local produce (including any cherries that are ripe and ready), baked goods, honey, soaps, and more.

Very Cherry Flying Pancake Breakfast, 8–11am

Need breakfast plans on the Fourth of July? The Very Cherry Flying Pancake Breakfast includes cherry-inspired pancakes, sausages, coffee, and juice, plus a special appearance by the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Fly Baby. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for kids.

Cherry Farm Market, 10am–10pm

Looking for more cherry-themed goods? Check out the Cherry Farm Market, which includes sweet cherries from Edmondson Farms along with other cherry goods, like desserts, jams, salsas, juices, trail mixes, and more.

Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

Grab something to sip on while you’re attending the Festival at the Beer Tent, where you’ll find a variety of local and domestic beers, a selection of wine, and specialty cocktails with a cherry-themed twist.

Adult Cherry Pit-Spitting Contest, 6–7pm

The pit-spitting contest is a fun way to get in the spirit of the festival and enjoy some friendly competition. The record is over 95 feet! See if you can beat it and claim the trophy. This event takes place in the Open Space and is free to participate in and spectate.

JUL y 5

Cherry Farm Market, 10am–10pm

Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

A Cherry Royal Picnic, 4:30–6:30pm

Grab a sandwich or some snacks from the vendors at the Open Space (and some cherries from the Farm Market!) and bring the kids to enjoy activities with Cherry royalty, including a sing-along, cherry trivia, a dance lesson, and a book reading. The picnic takes place at F&M Park at Railroad and Washington Streets.

JUL y 6

Cherry Farm Market, 10am–10pm

Orchard Tours, 10am–1pm

Get a hands-on tour of cherry farming with tours of a 137-acre research farm in the heart of cherry country, operated by the Michigan State University Extension. The tours include educational exhibits, samples of cherry products, a 4-H petting zoo, and other 4-H kid activities. Shuttles depart from the BATA Hall St. Transfer Station at 9:30am and 10:30am and leave from the MSU orchard at 10am, 11am, and noon.

Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

Kids Cherry Pie Eating Contest, 1–3pm

If your kids love cherry pie, this is the event for them! Any children between 4 and 12 are welcome to participate in this pie-eating contest and try to clean their plates. The contest begins with the youngest participants going first. This event is held at F&M Park; please arrive 15 minutes early to register.

Bubble Gum Blow Contest, 2pm

Calling all bubble-blowing masters 12 and under: it’s time to put your skills to the test! The Bubble Gum Blow gives kids a chance to compete and blow the biggest bubble. Registration for this event takes place at Kids Club, starts at 1:45pm, and ends at 2:15pm.

Adult Cherry Pie Eating Contest, 5–6pm

Step up on stage and show the festival what you’ve got at the adult cherry pie eating contest! This free event is open to any adults who wish to participate; just know you’ll be up on the Lays Cherry Blast Stage in the Open Space Park. Registration is free and opens 30 minutes prior to the event at the stage.

Adult Cherry Pit Spitting Contest, 6–7pm

JUL y 7

• Cherry Farm Market, 10am–10pm

• Orchard Tours, 10am–1pm

• Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

• Kids Cherry Pie Eating Contest, 1–3pm

JUL y 8

• Sara Hardy Farmer’s Market, 7:30am–12pm

• Orchard Tours, 10am–1pm

• Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

• Cherry Farm Market, 12–10pm

• Bubble Gum Blow, 2pm

• Adult Cherry Pie Eating Contest, 5–6pm

• Adult Cherry Pit-Spitting Contest, 6-7pm

JUL y 9

Cherry Farm Market, 10am–10pm

Grand Traverse Pie Make & Bake, 10am–4pm Come to Clinch Park to learn how to make a cherry pie, then bring your crusted creation home with you! Open to kids 12 and under. This is a free event, but a $5 donation is optional to support the Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center. Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

Kids Cherry Pie Eating Contest, 1–3pm

JUL y 10

• Cherry Farm Market, 10am–10pm

• Orchard Tours, 10am–1pm

• Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

• Kids Cherry Pie Eating Contest, 1–3pm

• Bubble Gum Blow, 2pm

• Adult Cherry Pie Eating Contest, 5–6pm

• Adult Cherry Pit-Spitting Contest, 6–7pm

JUL y 11

• Sara Hardy Farmers Market, 7:30am–12pm

• Cherry Farm Market, 10am–10pm

• Beer Tent, 12–10:30pm

Long Live the Cherry Queen

By Kierstin Gunsberg

Celebrating a century of royalty

From the sun drenched sidewalks and the blocks of parade-goers that line them, life as the National Cherry Festival’s (NCF) Cherry Queen looks pretty sweet. And it is. But despite what it might seem from the Community Royale sidelines, being queen involves much more than waving from a cherry-red convertible while the crowd goes wild.

Each year since 1925 (except during pauses for the Great Depression and World War II), and starting with Gertrude Brown, Traverse City has crowned one young woman its official Cherry Queen, handing over a title that comes with a sash, a crown, and a full year of responsibilities.

But this is no beauty pageant. As an ambassador for the NCF, the queen spends the next 52 weeks making countrywide parade rounds, promoting our cherry industry, and visiting

Ains L ee h ewitt • 2025-2026

“If I could, I would go on about just how amazing my mother is,” says reigning queen Ainslee Hewitt. “Because to me, her little girl, she is my world.”

Maybe that’s why the phrase like mother, like daughter rings especially true for Ainslee and her mom Mitzie, who was crowned NCF Queen back in 1991.

Now, as Ainslee prepares to hand off her own glittering crown and join the ranks of Queen Alumni, she’s reflecting on the advice her mother shared about slowing down and appreciating the whirlwind year—something she took to heart amidst a jam-packed calendar of meet and greets with kiddos at Kingsley Library’s Fancy Nancy Tea Party, baking cherry pies for Munson patients, and keeping up her everyday responsibilities as an NCAA Division III collegiate golfer and student.

“Every event you attend is your first and last as queen,” says Ainslee. “I wish I could stop the clock… Being able to be present and soak in the joys of the moment was a huge lesson.”

Becoming Cherry Queen isn’t the only way Ainslee is following in her mother’s footsteps. As her reign winds down, she’s also exploring a career in rural healthcare, inspired by Mitzie (known to her patients as Dr. Hewitt). Ainslee’s especially interested in addressing the gaps in access that have made many areas across northern Michigan official healthcare deserts.

“I learned from serving as the National Cherry Queen the power of advocating,” says Ainslee. “And rural healthcare is a place that needs it.”

students all over the state to encourage them “to chase their dreams and make an impact,” explains Angela Sayler, the full-time volunteer director of the NCF Queen Program.

A queen alum herself (2009-2010), Sayler and her team of 10 (called The Queen Committee) stay busy keeping the queen busy—arranging her public appearances, recruiting future candidates, and securing the iconic cherry-print wardrobe that sets the Queen’s Court apart.

This spring, 14 candidates competed for a spot on that court, plus the $10,000 scholarship awarded to the Cherry Queen. As finalists Lillian Gray, Magdalen Kleinrichert, Aubrey Manchester, and Georgia Walker close out the festival on Friday, July 10, one of them will immediately take over for 2025 winner Ainslee Hewitt.

Until then, get to know these past and present queens as they give a behind-thescenes peek at what it means to be a member of NoMi’s royal family.

Cindy P L evA (now P L evA- w eber) • 1987-1988

1987 winner Cindy Pleva says there’s two major hurdles every queen candidate faces. The first is finding the courage to run. The second is quelling the self-doubt that follows.

“And that goes for all of us,” she says. “Every challenge we face at any age.”

Had Cindy listened to that persistent little voice, she never would’ve received one of her most treasured keepsakes, a personal note from then-Vice President George H.W. Bush, which he sent to thank her for hand-delivering a northern Michigan cherry pie to him. “My visit was life-changing, especially coming from a girl from one of the smallest cities in the country,” she says.

The world might also be missing out on a bit of cherry innovation inspired by her reign. Cindy’s father Ray, owner of Cedar’s long-loved Pleva’s Meats, began exploring how tart cherries could be used in meat processing to create a healthier food product, coming up with new recipes, like Cherry Pecan Sausage, along the way.

Ray’s foray into cherry innovation and advocacy for the fruit not only brought more dishes to the picnic table, but helped bring better school-lunch options to cafeterias across the country, with his patented blend of spices (and of course, cherry) used as an all-natural, nutritiously dense binding ingredient in burgers provided to students through the school lunch program, an accomplishment that landed him and Cindy guest spots on Oprah.

Thirty years after winning the title, Cindy returned to the festival as Assistant Director of the Queen Program, which has gone through more than a few changes over the years. Back then, Cindy recalls herself and over two dozen other candidates camped out in NMC dorms during Selection Weekend as they all took turns in interviews. And while it was a fun way to make friends, organizers have streamlined the weekend, only asking out-of-towners to spend the night away from home and filling the time between interviews with visits from agriculture experts and breakout sessions to hone their leadership development.

“We have tried to make the first phase of the process full of opportunities for growth so everyone walks away with tools they can use in the future,” Cindy says.

Erin Sullivan • 1999-2000

Sometimes life literally rains on your parade.

Erin Sullivan jokes that her legacy may be being “the queen who had her parades rained on several times throughout the year.” But she wasn’t about to let a little weather dampen her spirits.

After serving on the Queen’s Court once already, Erin arrived at the 1999 coronation surrounded by friends and family, hopeful but also fully prepared to celebrate someone else’s victory again.

This time, it was her turn. Erin was whisked off to a new festival nearly every weekend for the rest of that summer, and once spring arrived, she was back to it until passing the title on to Jennifer Brakel in 2000.

In the frigid months between festival seasons, she met with agricultural leaders and communities to promote the cherry industry. And while these days the anti-inflammatory benefits of cherries are just as well known as all the ways they can be diced into salsa or blended into a milkshake, those benefits were more abstract then. So part of Erin’s run as queen was to dissect and distill academic research papers on the benefits of cherries, then spread the word about our little stone fruit’s status as a superfood to the masses.

“Sometimes experiences seem peripheral,” to our future endeavors, she says of that meticulous if not tedious work. But, years later Erin, who now holds a Ph.D in Biological Psychology, credits that part of her queen duties (plus the public speaking skills she gained doing it) with her current career as a tenured professor out on the West Coast.

Courtn E y Fountain (now Hanl E y) • 2005-2006

Courtney Fountain’s first thought following a speech she’d prepared for judges during the 2005 deliberation process was, “I blew it in there.” Having sprinkled in what she considered a pretty clever joke about how George Washington probably would’ve thought twice about chopping down that cherry tree had he only understood the health benefits of the fruit it bore, Courtney was met with crickets.

Turns out, “they were just remaining a neutral panel.” And, as evidenced by her win, she hadn’t “bombed” her speech after all.

If becoming Cherry Queen is a practice in living in the moment, being on the Queen’s Court is a crash course in thick skin and, especially, extroversion.

“A lot of time together is an understatement,” she laughs. From the things most festival-goers don’t see, like nervous breaths before stepping in front of a panel to the front-and-center event appearances that make the week of Cherry Fest so fun, Courtney says she and the other finalists did “everything” together in the days leading up to coronation, including forging lifelong friendships.

After her year in reign, Courtney moved across the country to teach at an Egyptian museum before heading back to NoMi to start her career at TCAPS, choices that took a level of certitude she says came directly from her year as queen which saw her participating in Super Bowl XL events and even having dinner with the Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin. “I went out into the world with more confidence and a willingness to try new things,” Courtney says.

Kal E y S CH ro E d E r (now P E t E r SE n)

• 2006-2007

One of Kaley Schroeder’s most cherished memories of her reigning year was knowing that both of her grandmothers, Elsie and Rose, who she calls incredible women full of “love, grit, and grace” were there watching from the audience as she was crowned the 2006 queen. “My family truly rallied around me with love and support,” Kaley says.

But Kaley didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming Cherry Queen. “Actually I love to share this story,” she says. “Because my journey was a bit atypical.”

It started around 2004 on a softball field in Mason County’s Scottville where Kaley, then a high school senior, was encouraged by her coach to run for her hometown’s Harvest Festival Queen. That opportunity, explained her coach, could lead to support running for Traverse City’s Cherry Queen.

So, Kaley went for it, both Harvest Festival Queen, which she was crowned in 2004, and Cherry Queen, two years later—but not before doing a full studyup first. “I wanted to know as much as possible about the cherry industry and all aspects of the business so I was well equipped to represent it,” she says.

An “outlier” compared to the majority of candidates hailing from areas closer to TC, Kaley felt the push to represent the greater agricultural community. “I took that responsibility to heart.”

Now a healthcare leader, Kaley wants anyone thinking about running for queen to take the leap. “It was genuinely formative for me, supporting my growth in so many ways,” she says, calling the people who make up the cherry industry some of “the most incredible” people she’s ever served with. “They call it a cherry family for a reason,” says Kaley. “And even when distances and time separate, that connection very much lives on.”

Queen Kaley Schroeder after pinning a cherry on Rose Festival Grand Marshall George Lucas.

Schroeder with Governor Jennifer Granholm.

Erin Sullivan • 1999-2000

Sometimes life literally rains on your parade.

Erin Sullivan jokes that her legacy may be being “the queen who had her parades rained on several times throughout the year.” But she wasn’t about to let a little weather dampen her spirits.

After serving on the Queen’s Court once already, Erin arrived at the 1999 coronation surrounded by friends and family, hopeful but also fully prepared to celebrate someone else’s victory again.

SCAN FOR INFO

Kal E y S CH ro E d E r (now P E t E r SE n)

• 2006-2007

Courtn E y Fountain (now Hanl E y) • 2005-2006

Turns out, “they were just remaining a neutral panel.” And, as evidenced by her win, she hadn’t “bombed” her speech after all.

If becoming Cherry Queen is a practice in living in the moment, being on the Queen’s Court is a crash course in thick skin and, especially, extroversion.

But Kaley didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming Cherry Queen. “Actually I love to share this story,” she says. “Because my journey was a bit atypical.”

Queen Kaley Schroeder after pinning a cherry on Rose Festival Grand Marshall George Lucas.

Schroeder with Governor Jennifer Granholm.

SUMMER AT THE MUSEUM

The Dennos rolls out new exhibits (and a new look)

By Beth Milligan

It’s a big year for the Dennos Museum Center in Traverse City. In addition to celebrating its 35th anniversary—as well as the 75th anniversary of parent institution Northwestern Michigan College—the arts and cultural center will unveil a new look and four new exhibits this summer. Northern Express spoke with Dennos Executive Director & Chief Curator Craig Hadley about what museum visitors can expect.

Americans | June 19-Sept. 6, 2026

Coming to the Dennos as a traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street and the National Museum of the American Indian, Americans arrived at an auspicious time as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.

Curated by Paul Chaat Smith (Comanche), Americans “highlights the ways in which American Indians have been part of the nation’s identity since before the country began and offers a new way of understanding a few familiar events,” according to the Dennos. That includes thoughtprovoking revelations on Thanksgiving, Pocahontas, the Trail of Tears, and the Battle of Little Bighorn.

The exhibit “invites visitors to explore this complicated history and to share local stories about Native American history and culture,” the Dennos states. While American Indians are about one percent of the U.S. population, their images—on commercial products, sports jerseys, in classic Westerns, and in TV episodes ranging from South Park to Seinfeld—are prolific. Americans will explore “how Indians have been embedded in unexpected ways in the history, popular culture, and identity of the United States,” according to the Dennos.

Hadley says the Dennos will serve as the “launching point” for the traveling exhibition in Michigan, which will make six other stops in Iron Mountain, Fowlerville, Stevensville, Big Rapids, Port Sanilac, and Hamtramck. Given the “strong presence” of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians and Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians in northern Michigan, Hadley says the exhibit was a natural fit to “highlight Indigenous history” during America’s Semiquincentennial.

“It provides an opportunity to not only celebrate American history but place it in the wider framework of what has happened over the past 250 years,” he says. “It’s being able to talk about American Indian history and contemporary American Indians…as well as the context of some of the struggles and past historical wrongs.”

In a fraught political climate that shadows even the country’s anniversary festivities, Hadley says the Smithsonian partnership offers an opportunity to be “celebratory” but also bring “critical lenses to unpacking some of the real challenges and difficult moments in American history.”

“The Smithsonian is armed to present that discourse, and that’s work the Dennos

has always done,” he says. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to reflect but also provide that educational moment.”

In an interview with The Sun Magazine, curator Smith said of the exhibit: “Americans is only partly an exhibit about Indians; it’s also about what each visitor brings to it. It’s about how all our lives are inextricably entangled in American history.”

The exhibit is an example of the “rich array of resources” the Dennos has been able to access since becoming a Smithsonian affiliate in 2021. The partnership allows the museum to borrow artifacts, artworks, and other items that would otherwise be “tough for many communities to access” in northern Michigan, Hadley says.

Next up for the Dennos is pursuing its accreditation through the American Alliance of Museums, which only about five percent of museums achieve in the U.S., according to Hadley.

Caroline Monnet: This Old House Is All We Have | June 19Sept. 6, 2026

In a thematic connection to Americans, Caroline Monnet— an interdisciplinary artist of Anishinaabe and French descent—will mount This Old House Is All We Have at the Dennos this summer.

The exhibit includes both a “photographic group portrait of eight Indigenous women and a child gathered within an enchanted forest” and a “series of sculptural works” balancing organic and industrial elements, according to the Dennos.

Hadley says Monnet uses contemporary materials, like household and construction items, and “infuses them with traditional geometric designs and patterns. She’s really interested in this conversation between, what does it mean to think about a contemporary home in light of history and her ancestors’ land, which was ceded or occupied. There’s a tension in these structures that look like they’re woven or traditionally built but are built with contemporary materials, like plastic.”

The exhibit prompted the Dennos to post an unusual call for volunteer gallery guards due to the fragile nature of a key centerpiece, a floor-to-ceiling structure that “occupies almost the entire center of the exhibit,” says Hadley.

“You can walk through it, and it’s beautiful, but it’s really delicate. It’s seductive in the aesthetic sense, so you really want to get close to it. Knowing that summer is peak tourism season, with lots of kids and young families, we want to make sure they stay safe and the artwork doesn’t get damaged.”

Xavi Bou: Echoes of Flight | June 19-Sept. 6, 2026

Xavi Bou’s Echoes of Flight “invites visitors to reconsider how we see the natural world,” according to the Dennos. Hadley says the artist is “interested in documenting movement and flight,” tracing the way the flight paths of birds “evolve and create organic shapes.”

Visitors will see a variety of installations depicting Bou’s unique photography, as well as a slow-motion film in the museum’s Dutmers Theater explaining how Bou captured his material. Museum staff “came across his work a number of years ago, and everybody had the same reaction: This is incredible,” Hadley says.

Reflections on Community: 75 Years of Student Voices | July 2026-Jan. 3, 2027

NMC students have been crucial to shaping the institution’s identity since the college’s inception in 1951. This exhibition “explores that legacy through their eyes—from student publications, campus memories, and firsthand accounts,” according to the Dennos. “Discover how NMC students documented their own history, tracing evolving passions, concerns, and daily experiences while navigating campus life, local events, and the larger world around them.”

The “student-centered” exhibit is designed as a tie-in with NMC’s 75th anniversary year, Hadley says.

MEET THE NEW DENNOS

The Dennos isn’t just getting new exhibits this summer. It’s getting a whole new brand.

Staff have been working since 2020 on a complete brand refresh, encompassing everything from a new logo to revised signage to an updated paint scheme. Ann Arbor firm Phire Group helped lead the process. Hadley said the previous Dennos look, developed in 2008, felt “dated and traditional” and no longer reflective of the museum’s modern direction. It also wasn’t harmonious with NMC’s brand, says Hadley.

“When NMC received grant funding to refresh its brand, that was an opportunity for us to align the Dennos refresh with the college’s,” he says. “There was never a concerted effort before to address how the two brands spoke to each other.”

Some of NMC’s refreshed colors are now included in the Dennos palette. Hadley says the new museum logo “feels more modern, fresh, and inviting,” adding it’s also easier to use from a “utility standpoint” in print and digital reproductions.

The new brand will be officially unveiled at the museum’s July 2 Summer Reception & Launch Party at 7pm (doors at 6:45pm), where the new summer exhibits will also be celebrated. Members are admitted for free; non-member admission is $10 and includes a drink ticket and passed appetizers. Attendees, who are encouraged to RSVP online at DennosMuseum.org, can snag merch featuring the new logo and check out revamped museum elements.

More updates, including an overhauled website and new banners along Front Street, will soon follow. “Over the next year, folks will see the rest of this rollout take shape,” says Hadley.

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MEET OLD MISSION’S JIM TRUCK

This veteran turned horse trainer turned painter shares the story of his 81 years

By Art Bukowski

College football player. Vietnam chopper pilot. Master-class horse trainer. World traveler. Banker. Painter. Author.

Jim Truck has jammed quite a bit into his 81 years. And his story isn’t done yet.

“My mom was 96. Basically went to sleep one night and didn’t get up. She was healthy well into her nineties,” he says. “So I plan to go ahead and try to get to 100, and during that time I plan to write more books and paint more paintings. I don’t plan on slowing down.”

Truck lives on Old Mission Peninsula and sat down with Northern Express to share snippets of his eventful life.

Young Lessons

Born into a farming family in Nebraska, Truck grew up in southern California after his family moved there in search of a better life. It was a pretty sweet deal, he recalls. The family never had a lot, but they certainly had enough.

“I grew up in the sixties, which was the premier time to grow up in America, and I grew up in the right place,” he says. “I can remember surfing in January on a 25-foot wave while I looked up at the snow on the San Gabriel mountains.”

Truck played college football at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) before enlisting in the U.S. Army and eventually doing two tours in Vietnam, with time at a base in Europe in between.

In Vietnam he flew helicopter gunships, earning three bronze stars and 37 air medals, he says. It was a grim situation, with “so much death.” He’s come to realize now that it was a war that shouldn’t have been fought, he says, though through his own role he learned many valuable lessons.

“From that time I gained the realization

of how important life is, and how narrow that little band of life is. I’ve had a guy right next to me with his guts hanging out. Seen a guy in a bunker with a hole this big in his shoulder,” he says. “I had bullets go right by me, had one hit my helmet, had one go between my legs. But I never got hit. Just one of those things.”

In between his tours in Vietnam he was stationed in Germany, where he met and married his wife Chris (they remain married to this day, 57 years later). They traveled all around Europe in a Jaguar, visiting as many art museums as they could (more on that below).

Truck was stationed at Fort Knox after returning stateside, where he promptly got in harm’s way via an encounter with a drunk fellow serviceman.

“After spending years in Vietnam and dodging all those bullets, I was literally back three weeks and I lost my spleen in a headon collision,” he says. “They had to shock me back to life.”

A Horse Man

It was at Fort Gordon, Georgia, when Truck first took up a serious interest in horse riding and training. He started hanging out with a family who had practiced the hunterjumper discipline for generations, and he found he had quite the knack for it.

One thing led to another, and he was roped into leading the 1st Calvary Division’s Horse Calvary Detachment, an equestrian military unit of the Army. Not unlike the Navy’s Blue Angels, it travels around the country for public relations and recruiting reasons.

“I had 20 horses, four mules, and three great big trucks. An old wagon and all of that kind of stuff,” Truck says. “We made every small town parade [you could imagine].”

Then, after finally getting out of active

service for good, he moved back near Fort Knox, built a barn and began to train, breed, and ride horses. He eventually became a riding instructor and coached many students to national awards, and became an American Horse Show Association judge, traveling around the country for shows.

“They’re an absolutely amazing animal,” he says of horses. “And they tell us about our history. When you talk about the history of America, the horse is such an integral part of it. They’re just magnificent animals.”

Then came about 30 years of banking (a friend offered him a job, starting this long career), during which he rose to the president and CEO of two banks in Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas. Along the way, he received a master’s degree from the University of Houston.

“The neat thing about banking, especially at community banks, is you get to meet people and you get to see and facilitate change,” Truck says. “You see good, you see bad, you see lots of shysters, but you can actually lend to good people and see them grow…and it made you feel really good because you’d call on ’em and they’d say, ‘If you hadn’t of lent me that money, I never could have done this.’”

Fun fact: Truck was one of the original lenders of the now very large Buc-ee’s chain of general stores, working with founder Arch Aplin.

Making Time for Art

While living in Texas, Truck made a friend from a little place called Traverse City. In a story that’s played out thousands of times over the years, the Trucks came here with that friend and fell in love with the place.

After visiting a few times, they bought a place on Old Mission Peninsula, where they moved full time in 2010 when Truck retired.

“We had looked at every state, and there isn’t any other place I’d rather be than right here,” Truck says.

Now, he spends most of his time painting and writing. The urge to paint started way back when he toured art museums in Europe, and he now finally has plenty of time to commit to this craft. His home is adorned with dozens of his own paintings, which also hang in the homes of friends and acquaintances.

“I saw a photo of my sister-in-law’s two daughters together, and I painted it. When I gave it to her, she cried,” he says. “She said ‘I put this in a special place, so if there’s a fire, I can grab it on the way out.’ What better feedback can you get?”

Painting, Truck says, is a great way to keep the mind fresh. “Every time I paint, I learn,” he says. “A new technique, some new thing, and it stimulates me.”

He’s written and self-published several books as well, mostly historical fiction, and the inspiration comes from everywhere.

“We were driving home from [a medical appointment] at the University of Michigan, and I saw this little granite boulder. And somebody had painted on it: ‘God is Love,’” he says. “And I’m thinking: I can write a book about that. I wrote a 350-page book about the girl who painted that rock.”

Where all of this creative output comes from is anyone’s guess.

“My dad was not artistic. My mom was not, either. Nobody in my family’s artistic,” he says. “I guess it’s just one of those genes I picked up along the line.”

Through all those travels, jobs, dangers, and adventures, one thing remains true for Truck.

“I’ve seen enough of the world to know that I was very lucky to have been born in America. What a deal. It’s the absolute best thing anyone can have happen to them.”

TRAVERSE CITY’S ONE AND ONLY RAW BAR

Umbo opens in May, gets settled in June, and plans to expand to dinner in July

By Ross Boissoneau

It’s been described as the buzziest restaurant in town. The owners are working hard to make sure it is busy as well as buzzy.

Not that it will take a lot of people to fill up the premises at Umbo. After all, the oyster bar/seafood restaurant only seats 25. Just the right size, according to Sarah Welch, who owns and runs the restaurant with her husband, chef Cameron Rolka.

They wanted to create their niche restaurant in a fashion so they weren’t over-extended, but could still be profitable. “What’s the smallest we can be and make enough money?” Welch says the duo asked themselves.

Armed with accolades and experience downstate and a desire to become part of the food scene in one of their favorite places to visit, the twosome scouted around for a location. “A year and a half ago we started to look at buildings. It helped that our downstate seafood person was expanding up here,” says Welch.

They ultimately landed on a small twostory building on East Front Street that had been home to Pure Essence Salon, which they were able to purchase. They then set about remodeling it to serve as their restaurant and home.

The First Month

Umbo debuted in May, featuring a menu like nothing else locally, heavy on oysters and tinned fish.

Welch and Rolka wanted to create something they had expertise in and didn’t see in the area. “We were always surprised there wasn’t a raw bar [in Traverse City],”

says Welch.

So just what the heck is an umbo anyway? It is the oldest, most prominent, raised part of a bivalve’s shell, located near the hinge. According to Welch, it’s also the story of the restaurant.

“It’s the place the oyster starts to grow from,” she says. They typically grow from a tiny piece of calcium, often from the shell of another oyster. “It’s the starting point of an oyster. This is our starting point, built on previous experience.”

Both Rolka and Welch boast impeccable credentials. Rolka has worked in a wide array of establishments, from 3-Michelin star Martin Berasategui in Spain to eateries in Detroit, leading to the high-end seafood and cocktail restaurant Mink in Corktown. Mink is a 17-seat restaurant featuring a seasonally influenced and constantly rotating selection of oysters, a seafood-based tasting menu, caviar service, and a wide selection of curated tinned seafoods.

Welch co-founded Mink and was a co-founder at Marrow, which was voted a semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant in the country by the James Beard Foundation and named one of the top new restaurants by Eater. She’s been nominated four times for James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef in the Great Lakes category, and is now running the front of the house while Rolka oversees the kitchen. Despite its diminutive size, Umbo currently employs nine people besides Rolka and Welch.

The Menu

Of course, oysters are the star of the show at Umbo. “At any point we have between eight and 14 varieties,” Welch says. “They’re

high in protein, great for you.” Welch and Rolka’s enthusiasm goes beyond simply enjoying eating them.

“Millions and millions and millions are being farmed. They’re in the water three or four years before market. They’re ecologically positive. They’re a filter feeder, clean[ing] the environment,” Welch says.

She compares them to wine, noting that the specific environment in which they grow impacts their taste. For wine, it is the terroir; for oysters, it’s the merroir that affects their quality. “We think of it a lot like wine and

encourage people to think about it like wine,” Welch says.

She adds that seafood isn’t the only thing on the menu at Umbo. “It’s not just an oyster bar. We have steak on the menu, roasted veggies.”

Surf & Turf Tartare features big eye tuna and Moraine Park Farm beef. Roasted Shishito peppers are served in preserved lemon aioli, and there’s the Bok Choy a la Plancha (aka cooked at high temps on a metal plate). And there’s tinned fish. Welch explains

that many specialty seafoods are only in season for a short while and/or don’t ship well. So the best way to preserve them for those in distant locales to enjoy is to harvest them at the peak of flavor and can them.

But these are not like the sardines or smoked oysters available on grocers’ shelves. There’s Tinned Mackerel from France, Regalis Cockles in Brine from Spain, and Island Creek Littleneck Clams from Cape Charles, Virginia, all served with toasted house-made bread, seasoned saltines, pickles, oyster cream cheese, and hard-boiled egg.

So among all the interesting items on the

menu, what does Welch say is the best? She says it depends on how adventurous a spirit the customer has, but she’s particularly fond of the Conservas de Cambados Angulas. Which are—wait for it—tiny baby eels in olive oil. “They’re like a vermicelli noodle, simply prepared. They’re a delicacy.”

Various ice creams, strawberry shortcake, and beverages round out the menu.

The Drinks

While waiting for the restaurant’s liquor license to be approved, Welch and Rolka opted to open for lunch only. That allowed

them and their staff to get the ball rolling without overstressing themselves. With the license in hand, the plan is to open for dinner service in July.

“We are catering Electric Forest,” Welch says, referring to the electronic and jam band music festival in Rothbury the last weekend in June. “We don’t want to leave the kids here alone to run the show.”

She and Rolka worked with Charlevoix winery and cidery Folklor to craft wines specifically to accent the flavors of their menu. “We made two wines at Folklor. We pair a Pinot Blanc with the oysters. We want to create

conversations around oysters,” says Welch. That’s part of the reasoning for the seating arrangement in the restaurant as well. Rather than crowd tables together in the small space, the restaurant’s interior features only bar seating. That engenders conversation among the patrons as well as with the staff. Despite her own years in the kitchen, Welch says she enjoys her role out front. “I’m the inbetween. I keep the space welcoming,” she says. “We created an environment we love.”

Find Umbo at 430 E. Front St. in Traverse City. (231) 944-2797; eatumbo.com

Saturday

TAKE A KID FISHING DAY:

8am, Mineral Springs Park, Frankfort. Donated fishing rods will be distributed to kids who are fishing. Kids can also register to win prizes, & enjoy a free pizza party. Free. frankfortmich.com/calendar.php

YOUNG EAGLES FLIGHTS - FREE AIRPLANE RIDES FOR KIDS: 8:30am-noon, William Bolton Airport, Empire. Kids ages 8–17 have an opportunity to fly free of charge in a general aviation airplane. Register. eaa234.org/youth

22ND ANNUAL LITTLE TRAVERSE CROP HUNGER WALK: 9am, Bay View Grounds, Evelyn Hall, Petoskey. Take steps & raise funds together to provide meals for those in the community who need them - & support programs that create greater food security in communities all around the world. events. crophungerwalk.org/chw/event/petoskey

INDIAN RIVER YOUNG EAGLES FREE FLIGHTS: 9:30am-12:30pm, Campbell-Pratt Airport, Indian River. For kids ages 8-17. Please register online. eaachapters.org

14TH ANNUAL ART IN THE GARDEN FESTIVAL: 10am-4pm, Demonstration Gardens, Gaylord. Live music, beautiful gardens, food, local artists, educational workshops & more. Hosted by the Otsego Conservation District.

27TH ANNUAL CHARLEVOIX SUMMER ART SHOW: 10am-5pm, East Park, downtown Charlevoix.

BREW-TO-BREW TRAIL DAY: 10am, Betsie Valley Trail. This event is self-directed, so you can ride the entire 20-mile loop that connects breweries, or take a walk on the trail, or just enjoy your beers. Fee includes a free tech-style event t-shirt & vouchers for two beers — one at Stormcloud Brewery & one at Five Shores Brewery. Pick up your vouchers at either the trailhead building in Beulah or at Stormcloud in Frankfort the day of the event from 10am-2pm. Benzie Bus will provide complimentary shuttle service. $50 donation/registration fee; increases June 25. betsievalleytrail.org/brew-to-brew

EAST JORDAN FREEDOM FESTIVAL: June 24-27. Today includes a carnival from noon-10pm; kid’s events in Memorial Park from 10am-2pm; Grand Parade at 4pm, lining up at East Jordan Family Health Center; Grand Festival Raffle drawing at 7:15pm at Memorial Park; & fireworks at dusk, with the best viewing at Memorial Park, The Marina Docks, The Old Boat Launch & Bridge Area. eastjordanfreedomfestival.org/events

ELK RAPIDS ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW: 10am-4pm, River St., downtown Elk Rapids. Handmade treasures, artwork, & creations from talented artisans & makers. elkrapidschamber.org/arts-crafts-show-2

FRIENDS OF THE CHARLEVOIX PUBLIC LIBRARY ANNUAL BOOK SALE: 10am5pm, Charlevoix Public Library. On Sunday ONLY: Fill a bag of $1 items for $5.

GAYLORD DOWNTOWN SUMMER ART

SHOW: 10am-5pm, downtown Gaylord. Stroll through streets filled with artwork from talented local & regional artists, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography & more. There will also be live music & food vendors.

MACKINAW PREMIER ARTS & CRAFTS

SHOW: 10am, Conkling Heritage Park, Mackinaw City.

SUMMER ADVENTURE SHOW: 10am5pm, Holiday RV Park Campground, TC. Explore the latest in outdoor adventure & summer fun. RVs, boats, golf carts, food trucks. Free admission.

JUNE EARLY CHILDHOOD EVENT: 11am, Elk Rapids Public Library. Families with children ages birth to 5 are invited to a free family concert with singer/songwriter Miriam Pico & interactive storyteller Jen Strauss. Hosted by the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay in partnership with Northwest Education Services. Free. northwested.org/o/ecs/ article/2962787

AMATEUR RADIO FIELD DAY 1: Noon4pm, Raven Hill Discovery Center, East Jordan. An annual event where thousands of licensed amateur radio operators across the United States & Canada set up temporary radio stations & operate under portable or emergency-style conditions. Learn how radio communication works in emergency & off-grid situations, talk with knowledgeable volunteers about ham radio, equipment, & licensing, & more. Free. secure.qgiv.com/for/ravenhilldiscoverycenter/event/amateurradiofieldday

SPINNING DEMO WITH CATHERINE BARBER: Noon-2pm, Raven Hill Discovery Center, East Jordan. Learn the traditional craft of spinning fiber into yarn in this engaging demonstration. Free. secure.qgiv.com/for/ravenhilldiscoverycenter/event/spinningdemo

FRESH COAST FRENZY - ROLLER DERBY TOURNAMENT: 2pm, GT County Civic Center, TC. An action-packed roller derby event featuring four teams playing six games over two days. $15/day; $25/two days. tcrollerderby.com/events-2-1/fresh-coastfrenzy-njcmy-4kalg

It’s not every day Quincy Jones labels you the baddest vocal cats on the planet! TAKE 6 hits the stage at Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor, Sun., July 5 at 7pm. These Grammy, Dove and Soul Train award winners share their impressive mix of gospel, jazz, R&B and pop. Tickets start at $55. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/take-6

WHERE SUMMER & SPORT MEET IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN: 2pm, Flintfields Horse Park, Williamsburg. This four-star event brings international riders to TC for an afternoon of competition, hospitality, & one of northern Michigan’s signature summer traditions. Tickets available online or at the gate. $15 & up. traversecityhorseshows.com/visit

LET’S GO FLY A KITE: 3-5pm, Lake Michigan Turnaround, Frankfort. Enjoy this free kite-flying extravaganza. Kites provided!

CHICKEN BBQ: 4:30-6:30pm, Old Mission Peninsula United Methodist Church, TC. Grilled chicken & all the fixings, plus homemade desserts & beverage. Eat in or takeout available. 231-223-4393. Freewill donation gratefully accepted. oldmissionpeninsulaumc.org

PAINT GRAND TRAVERSE: 6pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, TC. Fresh Paint Party.

See all of the artwork created throughout the week during Paint Grand Traverse. Purchase if you’d like. Tickets start at $75. crookedtree. org/events-and-exhibitions/events/paintgrand-traverse/fresh-paint-party-tickets.html

SUMMIT CITY COUNTRY DANCE: 6pm, Summit City Grange Hall, Kingsley. Learn to square dance with live country music. All levels of dance invited. 231-577-8076. Donation. facebook.com/SummitCityGrange

THE SERIES AT LAVENDER HILL FARM: 6pm, Lavender Hill Farm, Boyne City. Featuring International Barbershop Quartet Champions Lemon Squeezy. Opening for them will be jazz-leaning guitarist & vocalist Owen James. Tickets start at $18. lavenderhillfarm.com/series-lineup

AN EVENING WITH ANN PATCHETT: SOLD OUT: 7pm, Great Lakes Center for the

Arts, Bay Harbor. #1 New York Times bestselling author Ann Patchett will celebrate her newest novel, “Whistler.” Join waitlist on web site. $50; includes copy of book. greatlakescfa.org/ events/detail/an-evening-with-ann-patchett

MANITOU WINDS: 7pm, Oliver Art Center, Frankfort. Exploring uncharted genres & highlighting new or obscure composers, Manitou Winds invents repertoire through their own arrangements & compositions, resulting in unique music. $10. tickettailor.com/ events/oliverart/2201068

OUT ENSEMBLE: 7pm, The Music House Museum, Williamsburg. This dynamic wind quintet celebrates LGBTQ+ composers & performers. They shine a light on diverse voices & new works - including music by Avi Randall & Rj Dion. $25-$30. musichouse.org/musichouse-event/live-at-the-music-house-museum-out-ensemble-saturday-june-27-at-700-pm

SATURDAYS IN THE PARK: ERENA TERAKUBO QUARTET: 7pm, GT County Civic Center, Amphitheater, TC. Enjoy this internationally acclaimed sax & flute virtuosity. Free; donations welcome. scullytour.com

VILLAGE VOICES: THE EXUBERANCE OF BEING ALIVE: 7:30pm, Northport Performing Arts Center. A celebration of human hearts, human minds, & human voices. Tickets run from free to $15. northportperformingarts.org/ village-voices-the-exuberance-of-being-alive

QUEER ADULT PROM: 8pm, Hotel Indigo, ballroom, TC. $25. zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/queer-adult-prom

Sunday

FORMULA 1 FREE WATCH PARTIES: AUSTRIA: 9am, The Bay Community Theatre, Suttons Bay. Experience the thrilling races on the big screen. With new changes, including Formula 1 games. Doors open an hour before the start of each race. Free. thebaytheatre.org/home-page

27TH ANNUAL CHARLEVOIX SUMMER ART SHOW: 10am-3pm, East Park, downtown Charlevoix.

FRESH COAST FRENZY - ROLLER DERBY TOURNAMENT: (See Sat., June 27, except today starts at 10am.)

GAYLORD DOWNTOWN SUMMER ART SHOW: (See Sat., June 27)

LOG CABIN DAY ON OLD MISSION PENINSULA: 10am-4pm, Lighthouse Park, Old Mission Peninsula, TC. Celebrate the 250th birthday of the U.S.A. with a tour of the Hessler Log Cabin & Mission Point Lighthouse. Live demonstrators will reenact traditional crafts such as spinning, rug making, weaving, chair caning, quilting, & blacksmithing. Participate in interactive children’s games. ice cream for children under age 12. Free. omphistoricalsociety.org

MACKINAW PREMIER ARTS & CRAFTS

SHOW: (See Sat., June 27)

PAINT GRAND TRAVERSE: 10am-3pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, TC. Day After Sale. crookedtree.org/events-and-exhibitions/events/ paint-grand-traverse/pgt-event-schedule.html

SUMMER ADVENTURE SHOW: (See Sat., June 27, except today’s hours are 10am-4pm.)

HORSE NORTH RESCUE OPEN HOUSE: 11am-3pm, Horse North Rescue, Interlochen. See Hark, the famous Breyer horses, & all of the horses. Silent in person & online

auction, kids games, food truck. Free. horsenorthrescue.org/events

LOG CABIN DAY - DOUGHERTY MISSION HOUSE: 11am, Dougherty Mission House, TC. Discover the oldest house in the regionthe 1842 Dougherty Mission House museum. Enjoy a free tour of the house, outbuildings & demonstration garden. Free. doughertyoldmissionhouse.com

LOG CABIN DAY - SLEEPING BEAR: 11am-2pm. The cabin is set at the end of a two-mile track in the Platte River area of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Featuring the Boekeloo Cabin, one of six log cabins on the mainland in the Park at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Stuart Boekeloo, a descendant, will share history & stories of his family’s time at the cabin. phsb. org/events-calendar/log-cabin-day-2025

FRIENDS OF THE CHARLEVOIX PUBLIC LIBRARY ANNUAL BOOK SALE: (See Sat., June 27, except today’s time is noon-5pm.)

FIRST ANNUAL BLESSING OF THE DOUGHERTY LEGACY AMERICAN CHESTNUT BLOSSOMS EVENT: 1pm, Dougherty Mission House Museum, TC. See the pollination process of these unusual trees at 1:30pm, conditions permitting. Free. doughertyoldmissionhouse.com

NATIONAL LOG CABIN DAY - HERITAGE VILLAGE: 1-3pm, Heritage Village, Mackinaw City. Featuring special educational activities & guided tours. Free.

AMATEUR RADIO FIELD DAY 2: (See Sat., June 27, under AMATEUR RADIO FIELD DAY 1, except today’s time is 2-4pm.)

SALINE FIDDLERS PHILHARMONIC: 2pm, Castle Farms, Charlevoix. This high-energy indoor concert features talented young performers blending folk, bluegrass, Celtic music, jazz, western swing, vocals, & Appalachian step dancing into a show for all ages. $0-$22. castlefarms.com/events/saline-fiddlers-philharmonic

BAY VIEW VESPER CONCERT: 8pm, John M. Hall Auditorium, Bay View. From Broadway to Carnegie Hall. One of the most well-attended in the series, feast your eyes & ears on the sights & sounds of New York City! $20-$23.50. bayviewassociation.org/events/assembly-worship2026-3/?occurrence=2026-06-28

monday

PRIMARY CANDIDATES FORUM: 5:30-8:30pm, NCMC, Athletic/Student Center, Petoskey. A candidate forum meet & greet for those running in the Aug. 4 primary election will be held. Candidates for the 107th State House race, 37th StateSenate race, U.S. Senate & U.S. Congressional 1st District have been invited to participate in the event.

YANKEE STATION CONCERT: 7pm, Swift Field, Bay View, Petoskey.

MONDAY NIGHT MOVIE: “GLORY”: 7:30pm, Bay View, Voorhies Hall, Petoskey. Free; donations appreciated. bayviewassociation.org

tuesday

THINKING CREATIVELY: 2-4pm, Peninsula Community Library, TC. Adults paint a watercolor card suitable for framing with Becky Dykjune 30 june 28 june 29

XAVI BOU ARTIST TALK: 4pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Join exhibiting artist Xavi Bou for a 45 minute presentation on his artistic practice. Bou’s work explores the representation of animal movement through the technique of digital chronophotography, a practice situated at the intersection of art & science. $0-$10. simpletix.com/e/xavi-bouartist-talk-tickets-270823

LIVE ON THE BIDWELL PLAZA: TICKET TO RIDE ELECTRIC: 5:30-7pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Bidwell Plaza, Petoskey. Enjoy this northern Michigan-based Beatles tribute band. Free. crookedtree.org/eventsand-exhibitions/events/?page=1&location=p etoskey#class-list

Free. crookedtree.org/events-and-exhibitions/ events/?page=1&location=petoskey#class-list

FLIP THE SWITCH WITH DEB ALLEN: 4pm, City Opera House, TC. Meet the author, Deborah Allen, as she discusses the inspiration for her book/journal “Flipping the B.I.T.CH. Switch.” A percentage of book sale proceeds go to support Zonta’s efforts to address the ratification of the United States equal rights amendment, as well as global efforts to end domestic violence against women. $35. cityoperahouse.org/ events/flip-the-switch-with-deb-allen

INPUT SESSION & MONTHLY POTLUCK BBQ: 5pm, The Friendship Community Center, Suttons Bay. Share your input on expanding existing & future programming. Free. thecentersb.com

NIGHT OF THE ARTS: 5:30-8pm, downtown Harbor Springs & surrounding area. Fine art, jewelry, antiques, live music, floral design, & culinary items. harborspringschamber. com/events/details/2026-night-of-the-arts18766?calendarMonth=2026-06-01

LOCAL AUTHOR TALK WITH GENE KELLY: 6pm, Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Community Room, TC. Long-time Lake Leelanau resident, Army Veteran, & author Gene Kelly’s works reflect on community, his Irish heritage & the American experience. He will share his newest work, Three American Men, with TADL patrons. Free. tadl.org/GeneKelly

ALMOST HEAVEN: JOHN DENVER’S AMERICA: 7pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. A musical tribute & intimate celebration of John Denver’s life & career... from growing up in a military family to his rise on the 1960s folk scene & superstardom in the 1970s & beyond. His timeless hits include “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High,” & “Annie’s Song.” Starting at $55. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/almost-heaven

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KENOSHA KINGFISH: BARKS & DAWGS NIGHT: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. northwoodsleague. com/traverse-city-pit-spitters/2026-schedule

A.J. CROCE PRESENTS “CROCE PLAYS CROCE” TOUR: SOLD OUT: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Acclaimed singer-songwriter, piano virtuoso, & multi-instrumentalist A.J. Croce brings his “Croce Plays Croce Tour” for an evening that bridges generations through timeless music & powerful storytelling. It includes his father, Jim’s classics like “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” & “Time in a Bottle,” as well as AJ’s own acclaimed originals. interlochen.org/events/ajcroce-presents-croce-plays-croce-2026-06-30

MONTHLY MOVIE CLUB: “THE BIRDCAGE”: 7:30pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort. Free. gardentheater.org/comingsoon

SETH BERNARD & FRANK YOUNGMAN: 7:30pm, The Rhubarbary, 3550 Five Mile Creek Rd., Harbor Springs. These folk musicians have been longtime pillars of the Michigan Music community. Please bring a folding chair. $20 donation requested. dalescottmusic.com

july 01

wednesday

SENIORS ON THE T.A.R.T.: LEELANAU TRAIL: Hive Coffee Co., Suttons Bay. Explore the TART Trails & local coffee spots. All activity levels welcome. 10am start; 11am coffee social.

CONCERTS IN THE PARK: AMANDA JANE: Noon, Pennsylvania Park, Petoskey.

EVENINGS ON RIVER STREET: SALUTE TO STARS & STRIPES - AMERICA TURNS 250!: 6pm, River St., downtown Elk Rapids. Celebrate the Semiquincentennial with your neighbors at this Red, White, & Blue Bash featuring J. Hobbs, who brings the best of vintage rock & roll to life. Free event. elkrapidschamber.org/chamber-nights-on-river-street

KIMBERLY WARNER & RICH BAUER: 6pm, Old Art Building, Leland. Family secrets, chronic illness, the search for truth & forgiveness… author Kimberly Warner tells about her book “Unfixed” in a conversation with her uncle, acclaimed Michigan filmmaker Rich Brauer. A wine reception will be held at 5:30pm. When Warner discovered the identity of her biological father after years of unanswered questions, she uncovered unexpected family connections & a story rooted deeper in northern Michigan. Free; register. lelandlibrary.org/unfixed

ALMOST HEAVEN: JOHN DENVER’S AMERICA: (See Tues., June 30)

ELLSWORTH CONCERTS ON THE SQUARE: 7-9pm, Community Square, downtown Ellsworth. Free.

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KENOSHA KINGFISH: AMERICA’S 250TH CELEBRATION: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. Tonight includes fireworks. northwoodsleague.com/ traverse-city-pit-spitters/2026-schedule

july 02

thursday

COFFEE @ TEN, PETOSKEY: 10am, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Gilbert Gallery, Petoskey. IN MOTION: Making Art Dance - Select Local Artists Panel. Connie Landis, Lesley Pritchard, Jennifer Shorter; & moderator: Jennifer Cantley will have a conversation about translating movement into visual form. Free. crookedtree.org/events-and-exhibitions/event s/?page=1&location=petoskey#class-list

DENNOS BIRTHDAY COMMUNITY DAY: 11am-4pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Join in celebrating Dennos’ birthday with a free day at the museum. There will be giveaways on the hour in celebration of 35 years of The Dennos. simpletix.com/e/dennosbirthday-community-day-tickets-275784

DINOSAURS & THEIR DESCENDANTS: 11am, Glen Lake Community Library, Empire. This program features live reptiles that are today’s descendants of the great lizards of the prehistoric age, & bones & artifacts of the time period. Free. glenlakelibrary.net

LARRY’S DUNES & DOGS 2026: Glen Arbor. Held in memory of Lawrence Boyd IV. The bike ride starts at 11am; dog parade & costume contest at 1pm; & silent auc-

tion from 10am-4pm. There will also be a dog walk, evening group kayak adventure & more. Proceeds benefit Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes & Great Lakes Humane Society. $20 - $50. facebook.com/share/1HKi7Hub6X

ALMOST HEAVEN: JOHN DENVER’S AMERICA: (See Tues., June 30, except today’s time is 2pm.)

LELAND LIBRARY SUMMINARS: 4pm, Leland Twp. Public Library, Munnecke Community Room. “Arc of Fire: Understanding the Connected Wars in Today’s Middle East.” Historian Christina Michelmore traces the unfolding conflict in the Middle East over the past two & a half years, examining how each development shaped the next. Presented in partnership with the NMC International Affairs Forum. Reception held at 3:30pm. 231-256-9152.

SONS OF NORWAY PICNIC: 5:30pm, North Park, Suttons Bay. Potluck picnic followed by Norwegian lawn game Kubb. All are welcome. Questions: 231-642-15280. Free.

CENTRAL LAKE COMMUNITY PADDLE: 6pm, Thurston Park, Central Lake. Grab your paddleboard, kayak, or canoe & join Paddle Antrim for a slow paddle out of Central Lake. Must also bring a pfd. Must complete waiver. Free. ejchamber.org/event/central-lake-community-paddle-3

FIREWORKS & FUN: 6-11pm, Crystal Mountain, Slopeside, Lodge Deck, Thompsonville. Celebrate America’s 250th birthday by enjoying complimentary lawn games & more. Admission for this event is free, but you will need to purchase tickets to enjoy the food, drinks, & glow gear. crystalmountain.com/events-activities/ events/event-calendar/fireworks-fun

CONCERTS ON THE LAWN: NMC CONCERT BAND: 7pm, GT Pavilions, TC. Free. gtpavilions.org/news-events/2026-concertson-the-lawn

SUMMER RECEPTION + LAUNCH PARTY: 7pm, Dennos Museum Center, NMC, TC. Celebrate the summer exhibitions & get a first look at the updated brand. Doors will open at 6:45pm. Members get free admission & double discounts in the Museum Store the night of the event. $0-$10. simpletix.com/e/summer-reception-launch-party-tickets-270832

SUMMER SOUNDS: ELIZABETH LANDRY TRIO: 7pm, Michigan Legacy Art Park, Thompsonville. Elizabeth brings her sweet, smoky melodies, & storytelling lyrics. Joining her are Caul Bluhm & steel guitarist Joe Wilson. $15-$20. michlegacyartpark.org/events/ summer-sounds

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KALAMAZOO GROWLERS: AMERICA’S 20TH CELEBRATION: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. Includes fireworks. northwoodsleague. com/traverse-city-pit-spitters/2026-schedule

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

“A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM”: 8pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Upton-Morley Pavilion. Interlochen Shakespeare Festival. Enjoy this outdoor production directed by Bill Church. $41. interlochen.org/events/midsummer-nights-dream-2026-07-02

STRAIGHT NO CHASER: BEACH BASH: 8-10:30pm, Bay View Association, John M. Hall Auditorium, Petoskey. With a massive fanbase & a long list of accomplishments including 2 RIAA Gold Certified albums, over 1.5 million concert tickets sold, plus more, Straight No Chaser brings a sound of nine

unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense... & with a sense of humor. $45-$65. onthestage.tickets/ show/bay-view-association/6983bd5904635 e1054d045c5

july 03

friday

WEINER DOG RACES:

Jean Jardine Park, Harbor Springs. Registration at 10am; races at 11am. Puppy, adult & senior divisions. Free.

CONCERTS IN THE PARK: CHRIS KOURY: Noon, Pennsylvania Park, Petoskey. Free. crookedtree.org/events-and-exhibitions/even ts/?page=1&location=petoskey#class-list

SOLO ART SHOW OPENING RECEPTION: 4pm, Art on Union Gallery, TC. Celebrate the debut of Wendy Michelle Davis’ exhibition. Free. artonunion.com

FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC IN THE PARK: UNDERLEAF DUO: 6:30-8:30pm, Marina Park, Harbor Springs.

DOWNTOWN GAYLORD SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: SETH BERNARD & JORDAN HAMILTON: 7-9pm, Claude Shannon Park, Gaylord. Free.

NORTHPORT’S MUSIC IN THE PARK: THE FABULOUS HORN DOGS: 7pm, Kent Holton Pavilion. Free but donations appreciated. NorthportPerformingArts.org

TC PIT SPITTERS VS. KALAMAZOO GROWLERS: AMERICA’S 20TH CELEBRATION: 7:05pm, Turtle Creek Stadium, TC. Includes fireworks. northwoodsleague. com/traverse-city-pit-spitters/2026-schedule

“A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM”: (See Thurs., July 2)

MUSIC IN MACKINAW: HIPPS & PARKIN: 8pm, Conkling Heritage Park, Mackinaw City. Enjoy Americana, folk & country.

LELAND FIREWORKS: 9-11pm, Hancock Field, Leland.

MICHILIMACKINAC FIRE AT NIGHT: 9pm, Colonial Michilimackinac, Mackinaw City. Rifle firing will start at dusk; cannon firing will be after dark. Free. mackinacparks.com/event/ michilimackinac-fire-at-night-4/2026-07-03

july 04

saturday

100TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL: TC, July 4-11. Today includes the Very Cherry Flying Pancake Breakfast, Zumba By The Bay, Balance Bike Race, Bayside Beach Volleyball Tournament - 2 Person Mens & 2 Person Womens, Opening Ceremonies, Hole-inOne, Air Show, David Lee Roth, 4th of July Fireworks, & much more. cherryfestival.org

JULY 4 IN HARBOR SPRINGS: 8am: Paul Revere 5K & 10 Mile Run. The 10 mile begins near the Zoll Street Dog Beach. The 5K begins downtown in front of the Public Marina. 9am-4pm: 4th of July Art Show at Zorn Park. 1pm: 4th of July Parade starting at City Hall. 7:30-9:30pm: Pre-Fireworks Concert featuring Jelly Roll Blues Band. Fireworks at dusk - approx. 10:30pm. Post-Fireworks Movie at 11pm at The Lyric Theatre.

4TH OF JULY 5K FUN RUN: 9am, Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. The course be-

gins at Kinlochen & follows Crystal Mountain Drive to the Aspen trail, then over to the Trailside Neighborhood & back down Mountain Center Road to Kinlochen. $15-$20. crystalmountain.com/events-activities/events/ event-calendar/fourth-of-july-5k-fun-run

CENTRAL LAKE VICTORY4VETERANS

5K: 9am, downtown Central Lake. This road race is an out-and-back course. All proceeds support the Central Lake Veterans Center AmVets Post 6986. $35, registration closes July 3 at 8am; $45 race day - cash only. centrallakevictory4veterans5k.itsyourrace.com

NORTHPORT RUN FOR CANCER FUNDS: 9am, Northport Visitors Center. Featuring a 2 mile walk or 5K chip-timed race. Benefits the Leelanau County Cancer Foundation. $35/person. runsignup.com/Race/MI/ Northport/GeorgeAndersonMemorialNorthportRunforFunds

ART IN THE PARK: 10am-4pm, Mineral Springs Park, along the Betsie Valley Trl., Frankfort. This showcase of paintings, sculptures, photography & fine crafts features more than 50 artists. Free admission. frankfort-elberta.com

FRANKFORT’S FOURTH OF JULY: Decorated bike contest at Coastline Cycles at 9:30am. Parade at 10am, Main St., downtown Frankfort. Sand Castle Contest at Frankfort Beach from noon-2pm. Fireworks held at dusk (approx. 10:30pm) at Frankfort Public Beach

INDEPENDENCE DAY IN MACKINAW CITY: Strawberry social & bounce houses at Mackinaw City Municipal Marina Lawn; Straits Area Concert Band at 9pm at Conkling Heritage Park; fireworks over harbor at dusk. mackinawchamber.com/events/category/mackinaw-city-event

THE BEST OF THE FOURTH: Noon, GT County Civic Center, Amphitheater, TC. Enjoy a rousing & free concert by Encore Symphonic Winds, presented by TC Philharmonic. Includes patriotic favorites, American classics, & more. tcphil.org/events/the-bestof-the-fourth-2

SATURDAYS IN THE PARK: THE SCHLEPPINBOP KIDS: 7pm, GT County Civic Center, Amphitheater, TC. New-gen soul, blues, jazz, & funk with high-octane energy. Free; donations welcome. scullytour.com

sunday

100TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL: TC, July 4-11. Today includes the Classic Car Show, Bayside Beach Volleyball Co-Ed Tournament, Cherry Open Bowling Tournament, Cherry Farm Market, Beer Tent, Air Show, A Cherry Royal Picnic, Bow Wow & Soulja Boy, Family Sand Sculpture Contest, & much more. cherryfestival.org/events

FORMULA 1 FREE WATCH PARTIES: GREAT BRITAIN: 10am, The Bay Community Theatre, Suttons Bay. Experience the thrilling races on the big screen. With new changes, including Formula 1 games. Doors open an hour before the start of each race. Free. thebaytheatre.org/formula-1-watch-parties

A NORTHERN MICHIGAN SUMMER TRADITION RETURNS: 2pm, Flintfields Horse Park, Williamsburg. This event brings international riders to TC for an afternoon of outdoor competition, hospitality, & summer events during one of the region’s most anticipated seasonal traditions. Tickets available online or at the gate. $15 & up. traversecityhorseshows.com/visit

SUNDAY MUSIC IN THE PARK: SUNSHINE STRING BAND: 4-6pm, Marina Park, Harbor Springs.

TAKE 6: 7pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. Heralded by Quincy Jones as the baddest vocal cats on the planet, Take 6 includes Claude McKnight, Mark Kibble, Joel Kibble, Dave Thomas, Alvin Chea & Khristian Dentley. Starting at $55. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/take-6

CHAMBERFEST 2026: CHENG² DUO: 7:30pm, The Cheboygan Opera House. JUNO-nominated siblings cellist Bryan Cheng & pianist Silvie Cheng bring their own arrangement of the suite Pictures at an Exhibition by Mussorgsky, plus more! $25-$30. ci.ovationtix.com/36618/production/1270566 ?performanceId=11788375

CRISTIAN MĂCELARU CONDUCTS SIBELIUS: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Kresge Auditorium. The World Youth Symphony Orchestra will take the stage under the baton of acclaimed conductor Cristian Măcelaru. The program opens with “Continental Express” by Sam Wu, & continues with Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2. $21-$28. interlochen.org/events/cristianmacelaru-conducts-sibelius-2026-07-05 july 05

FUEL YOUR FRIDAY

Cars & Caffeine at Hagerty

Summer Fridays 7–9am

Come for the coffee, stay for the cars

JUNE 29 - JULY 05

BY ROB BREZSNY

CANCER (June 21-July 22): There are phases when the cosmic energies and I urge you to put others first—even tend to their pain before you tend to your own. But this isn’t one of those times. Right now, sacrificing yourself for the sake of others would obstruct the flow of righteous grace into your life. So then what is the most soul-honoring path available? Here’s what I think: Summon your inventive brilliance and use it to imagine generous ways to care for yourself. Shower yourself with gifts, treats, and blessings that delight you. Take the loving care you so deftly pour into other people and lavish it wholeheartedly on yourself.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Architects designing spaces for collective use try to balance two human needs: to see expansively and also have safe places to retreat. Too much exposure creates anxiety; too much enclosure brings claustrophobia. The ideal is to provide both shelter and spaciousness. Let’s use this theme as a metaphor for your life during the coming months. You'll be wise to create an equilibrium between engagement and privacy, between vastness and protection. Make it easy for yourself to observe the larger scene and also withdraw when needed.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Self-proclaimed “skeptics” love to sneer at astrologers, as if pondering what lies ahead were a violation of scientific purity. And yet economists, sports analysts, trend watchers, and political commentators churn out shaky predictions every day. Honestly, those professionals of probability often create more confusion than those of us who read the heavens. Take weather forecasters, for instance: From Europe to Japan, their models routinely miss sudden floods and twisters and trigger more than a few false alarms. But do the debunkers brand them as charlatans? Of course not. Forgive the outburst, but I’m building to a key foresight: Every forecast, projection, or vision that crosses your path over the next month will miss the mark—except for this one. So free yourself of their meddling.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Ethnobotanists describe how certain Indigenous traditions work with “teacher plants.” These are flora that offer not only physical benefits but spiritual instruction. They include psychoactive substances, but also ordinary plants approached with extraordinary attention. In the spirit of reinventing your education, Scorpio, I invite you to expand your understanding of who and what your teachers are. What ordinary elements of your daily life might offer wisdom if you engage them with deep respect? What situations at the edges of your awareness could bring lessons that enrich your perspectives? Now is an excellent time to seek new apprenticeships.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Western science and Western religions may disagree about how the universe began, but both place its birth in the distant past. Tantra and other spiritual paths, by contrast, propose that the universe is born afresh in every instant through the sacred, erotic interplay of God and Goddess. When humans approach love-making as an experimental sacrament, these traditions suggest, we can tune in to the union of those primordial forces and, in a sense, take part in the continual creation of existence. So, are you ready for a bit of world-making erotic play? The current astrological indicators say yes, you are.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A common obstacle to healthy intimacy is the belief that a beloved ally should automatically know what you need, without you saying a word. I used to suffer from this delusion myself and worked hard to dissolve it. I no longer unconsciously assume that my companions are so attuned to me that they can always intuit my desires. But I know this bad idea feels romantic to many people, even though it can sabotage even the most promising bond. In the weeks ahead, Capricorn, I invite you to starve this fantasy. Your intimate world is ripe for a fresh infusion of lucid, straightforward honesty.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your next few weeks will be sponsored by CoffeeBeer, the paradoxical elixir that both pumps up your energy and decompresses your defenses. You will be an exemplary role model for this

innovative product because you will epitomize what occurs when a sensitive soul gets excited and mellows out at the same time. I also expect you will soon be exploring intriguing opportunities that become available to you because of your supercharged calm. Fortunately, you don’t need to drink actual coffee and beer together to make this happen. The cosmic forces will be conspiring to help you.

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): Finish this sentence, Pisces: “The one thing that really keeps me from being myself is _______.” Is it someone’s opinion, an old story about who you are, a fear of loss, a habit of overpleasing, a secret shame, or a belief that you’re “too much” or “not enough”? Whatever first pops into your mind is probably closest to the truth. Here’s your next step: Loosen the grip of this stressor by even just 20 percent. bet your real self will feel relaxed enough to bloom more fully.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Archaeologists studying ancient wells have discovered that some weren't finished in a single effort. Communities might dig to the current water table, use the well for years, then probe further down when water levels dropped or needs increased. This is a useful metaphor for you, Aries. As of yet, you don't have the ability or tools to reach the deepest layers you aspire to reach. My counsel is to go as far as you can now and gather what you find there. Later, when you're readier, you will build on what has come before.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The doom-and-gloom wing of astrology is exhausting. The superstition that Mercury retrograde causes scrambled messages and dire mix - ups is dull and misguided. The planet’s apparent backward motion, which is happening right now, shows up about three times every year like clockwork. It's perfectly normal! In my view, Mercury retrograde isn’t threatening unless you obsess on the idea that it is, in which case, yes, your payment might go astray, and a friend may misunderstand you. But if cultivating relaxed clarity is more fun and productive for you than coping with fearful tension, treat the time between now and July 23 as a rich opportunity to refine, deepen, and upgrade how you communicate.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You Gemini readers have decreed that I must halt all musings about maddening, riddle-drenched ambiguity. You’ve delivered the message to me that you’re tired of wrestling with enigmas wrapped in paradoxes. Straightforward, plainspoken factualness is what you want. Well, OK. (Please remember that don’t make this stuff up; I simply channel cosmic omens.) Maybe I’ll start obeying your orders next time. But first, I will advise you: 1. Unexpected gifts are coming from people and situations in transition. 2. Tough but friendly interventions will nudge you toward healthy course corrections. 3. Mysterious assistance is on its way.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Most fields of human endeavor work like this: A few people are truly brilliant, a handful are actively harmful, and the majority fall somewhere between “not great” and “pretty good.” That’s true whether you’re talking about engineers, doctors, poets, or astrologers. So it’s inadvisable to assume a physician is wise about your well-being just because they’ve logged 15 years on the job, or to trust your life direction to the first astrologer whose promotion catches your eye. In the coming weeks, dear Leo, discernment like this matters even more than usual. Let your natural hopefulness be balanced by sharp, thoughtful judgment. Don’t just challenge obvious authority. Put every so-called fact, spin, assumption, and official line under your own clear-eyed review.

“Jonesin” Crosswords

"Paste Test"--twice the sticking power. by Matt Jones

ACROSS

1. One on the floor?

6. Woolly mom

9. Overpriced

13. "In ___" (Nirvana album)

14. Situated over 15. Mughal Empire's capital, once 16. Wand-waving result

17. Prawn breath freshener?

19. Clone of a corn salsa bit?

21. Rapper ___ Yachty

22. Lee who cameoed in Marvel movies

23. Claire of "The Crown"

24. Went over, as a time limit

26. Take in 27. Limit

30. The whole thing 31. Flowery keepsake

32. Pick up and go

33. Beefsteak photo as a desktop backdrop?

38. Tied 39. Grab hold of

Part of REM 41. "Law & Order" pros

Roll layer 43. Fatigued

47. TV chef Fieri

48. Satisfy

49. "Ben-___" (Best Picture at the 1960 Oscars)

50. Where Grover and The Count can check out books?

53. Southern Hemisphere species marketed as Chilean sea bass

55. "Well, golly!"

56. Theater sign

57. "La Bamba" actor Morales

58. "Freaks and ___" (NBC one-season wonder)

59. "Holy ___!"

60. "The Phoenician Scheme" director Anderson

61. Upper house of France's Parliament

DOWN

1. Microblogging site

2. Firenze's locale

3. Titles on state records

4. "All By Myself" singer Carmen

5. Winter ice melter

6. Hawke of "The Lowdown"

7. Tattered

8. Blunder of all blunders

9. Grumpy companion

10. Rapper Azalea

11. "Minions: The Rise of ___"

12. Smithfield product

14. Words after "have" or "take"

18. Beside the point

20. Army group?

25. Prepare for action

26. Wriggling critter

27. Capital served by one end of the ÿresund Bridge

28. Mass ___ (MIT's addr.)

29. As directed by

31. Experiment site

32. Cutting-in question

33. Poet Hughes

34. Eggs, in science

35. Not many

36. Passage

37. Irish fuel sources

42. Door word

43. "Slumdog Millionaire" setting

44. Outdoor gear retailer

45. "I've found it!"

46. Least rainy

47. California art museum, with "the"

48. Flat-topped hills

50. Homeland

51. ___ en place (professional kitchen setup)

52. 1950s South Korean president Syngman

53. President pro ___

54. Palindromic brand of kitchenware

BOOK YOUR TEE TIME

18-HOLE, PAR 72, ALL LEVELS

SUMMER MENU

MON 11-9 • TUE–FRI 11-10 SAT 9-10 • SUN 9-9

LIVE MUSIC

EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY

HIKE, BIKE, RUN ON 8+ MILES OF TRAILS

9 BEAN ROWS, SUTTONS BAY

6/29 – Billy & The Kid, 1-3

AMORITAS VINEYARDS, LAKE

LEELANAU

7/2 – Garrison Wilson, 5-7

BEL LAGO VINEYARD, WINERY & CIDERY, CEDAR

6/30 -- Chris Smith, 5-7

7/3 -- Bryan Poirier, 3:30

7/4 -- Luke Woltanski, 2

7/5 -- Dominic Fortuna, 3:30

BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU

TASTING ROOM:

7/1 – Luke Woltanski & John Piatek, 5:30-8

7/5 – Jim Hawley & His Band, 4-6:30

CELLAR 1914, CENTRAL LAKE

7/5 – Derailed, 4-7

CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN, THOMPSONVILLE

LEVEL4 LOUNGE, 8:30-10:30:

7/1 – Brady Corcoran

7/3 – Jakob Abraham

7/4 – Loren Kranz

7/5 – Chris Smith

THE YURT, 6-9:

7/1 – Jesse Jefferson

DUNE BIRD WINERY, NORTHPORT

7/2 -- Billy & The Kid, 3

7/3 -- The BayTrippers, 5

7/5 -- Dennis Palmer, 3

FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARD, CE-

DAR

4-7:

6/29 -- Samba D

7/2 -- Larz Cabot

Leelanau & Benzie

GILCHRIST FARM WINERY, SUTTONS BAY

7/1 -- Billy & The Kid, 3-6

HOP LOT BREWING, SUTTONS BAY 5-8:

6/29 -- Billy & The Kid

7/1 -- Zak Bunce & Denny Richards

7/2 -- Drew Hale

7/3 -- Uncle Z

IRON FISH DISTILLERY, THOMPSONVILLE

7/2 -- Angela Caro & John Pomeroy, 5:30-7:30

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

7/4 -- Jakob & The Winks, 3-6

7/5 -- Matt Gabriel, 5:30-7:30

LAKE ANN BREWING CO.

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

7/1 -- The Erly, 6:30-9:30

7/2 -- Snacks & Five, 7-10

7/3 -- Wink Solo, 3-6; Full Cord, 7-10

7/5 -- Mike Moran, 2-5; Full Cord, 6:30-9:30

LITTLE TRAVERSE INN, MAPLE CITY

7/3 – The True Falsettos, 6-9

BEER GARDEN:

7/5 – The Wild Sullys, 4-7

RIVER CLUB, GLEN ARBOR

6/29 -- Go North, 6-9

6/30 -- Split Decision, 6-9

7/1 -- Jim Hawley, 6-9

7/2 -- The Fridays, 6-9

7/3 -- Jason Locke, 6-9

7/4 -- Luke Duo, 6-9

7/5 -- The Groove Suns, 2-5; Empire Highway, 6-9

SHADY LANE CELLARS, SUTTONS BAY

7/3 -- Friday Night Live w/ Jeff Socia, 4-7

SOUL SQUEEZE CELLARS, LAKE LEELANAU

7/1 -- Mountain Gloom & Mountain Glort, 4-7

7/3 -- Brian Vander Ark, 4-7

7/5 -- Rebekah Jon, 3-6

ST. AMBROSE CELLARS, BEULAH

6/27 -- Troy Graham, 1-4; Ethan Bott, 5-8

6/28 -- Jabo Bihlman, 3-6

6/29 -- Kurt Hofmeister & Addisyn, 5-8

6/30 -- Luke Woltanski, 5-8

7/1 -- A to Z, 5-8

7/2 -- Kyle Brown, 5-8

7/3 -- Touch of Grey, 5-8

7/4 -- Kevin & Darrin, 1-4

7/5 -- Agnes Su, 3-4:30; Jabo Bihlman, 4:30-6

STORMCLOUD BREWING CO., FRANKFORT

PARKVIEW TAPROOM:

7/2 – Luke Woltanski, 6-8

SUTTONS BAY CIDERS

7/2 -- Thursday DJ Trivia, 6:30-8

7/5 -- Jonathan North & Rock Hat, 5:30-8

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

7/2 -- Bryan Poirier

7/3 – Laura Thurston

7/4 – Billy & The Kid

THREE TREES VINEYARD, SUTTONS BAY

7/5 -- Rob Coonrod, 3; Dixon's Violin, 4

TWO K FARMS CIDERY & WINERY, SUTTONS BAY

7/5 – The Nightcrawlers, 1-3

Manistee, Wexford & Missaukee

nitelife

ALEXANDRA INN, TC

BLUSH: ROOFTOP TERRACE: Mon -- Fridays Music (John & Madeline Piatek), 5-7

CHATEAU GRAND TRAVERSE WINERY, TC 5-8:

7/2 -- Zinnia Dungjen

7/3 -- Luke Woltanski

ENCORE 201, TC 9:

6/26-27 & 7/3-4 -- DJ Ricky T

JACOB'S FARM, TC 6-9:

6/28 -- Ethan Bott

7/3 -- Silverstiles

KILKENNY'S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE, TC 9:30:

6/26-27 – Jay Hawkins Band Mon. -- DJ Trivia, 7-9

Tues. -- The Will Harris Trio, 8-12

Weds. -- The Pocket Band, 8-12

Thurs. -- DJ Leo, 9:30-1:30

7/3 – The Ampersands

7/4 – DJ Leo

KINGSLEY LOCAL BREWING

6/30 -- Open Mic Night w/ Kevin & Sierra LaRose, 6-9

LEFT FOOT CHARLEY, TC BARREL ROOM:

6/29 – Open Mic w/ Rob Coonrod, 6-9

PATIO:

6/28 – Summer Sundays w/ DJ Ras Marco, noon-3

TASTING ROOM: 7/3 – ppm, 5-7

LIL BO'S, TC THE YARD, 7-10:30: 7/1 -- Dollar Shavey Club

7/2 -- TC Knuckleheads, 7-10:30

MIDDLECOAST, TC

7/1 – Trivia Night, 7-9

Thurs. – Open Mic w/ Joe Domanick, 7-9

7/3 – Jesse Jefferson, 6-9

MT. HOLIDAY, TC BEER GARDEN, 6-9: 7/2 – Matt Mansfield

7/3 – Scott Baker

NORTH BAR, TC

6/27 -- Jeff Linsell, 6-10

7/1 -- Loren Kranz, 7-10

7/2 -- Beans & Cheese, 7-10

OLD MISSION DISTILLING, TC SEVEN HILLS:

6/27 -- Erik Burke & Mark Daisy,

6:30-9:30

6/28 -- Chris Smith, 7-9:30

7/1-2 -- Jimmy Olson, 7-9

7/3 -- Prima, 6:30-9:30

7/5 -- Joe Domanick, 7-9

STONE HOUND BREWING CO., WILLIAMSBURG

6/27 -- Reese Keelor, 6:30-8:30

7/3 -- Empire Highway, 6:30-9:30

TC WHISKEY CO. - THE STILLHOUSE

6/27 -- Luke Woltanski, 8 7/3 -- DJ Ras Marco D, 8 7/4 -- The Groove Suns, 6

THE ALLUVION, TC 6/29 -- Big Fun + DJ Ras Marco, 7-10

THE HAYLOFT INN, TC 6/26-27 – Off Duty, 7:30-11 7/3-4 – East Bay Blue, 7:30-11 Tue -- West Bay Shufflers, 7-9 Thurs. – Open Mic Night

THE LITTLE FLEET, TC 6-10: 6/26-27 – The Daylites 7/3 – The Marsupials 7/4 – Brother Wolf

THE PARLOR, TC

6/27 -- Highway North, 9 7/1 -- Rob Coonrod, 8-11 7/2 -- Jimmy Olson, 8-11

THE PUB, TC 6/27 -- Craig & The Jolly Ranchers, 7-10; DJ Producer AJ, 10

6/28 -- David Marton, 5-8 6/29 -- Karaoke, 8-11 7/1 -- Zeke Clemons, 8-11 7/3 -- DJ Vai, 10

7/4 -- DJ Producer AJ, 10

THE WORKSHOP BREWING CO., TC 6/28 – Full Tilt Comedy – Comedy Mixtape, 7-9

6/29 – USS Comedy Open Mic, 8-9:30

6/30 – Open Mic w/ Zak Bunce, 6:30

7/1 – Jazz Jam w/ Ron Getz, 6-9

7/2 – DJ Trivia, 7-9

7/4 – Michael Root, 8-11

THIRSTY FISH SPORTS GRILLE, PATIO, TC 6/27 -- Blinker Fluid, 6:30-9:30 7/3 -- YESIMJOHN - DJ, 7-10

TOWNLINE CIDERWORKS, WILLIAMSBURG

6/27 -- Blair Miller, 6 7/3 – The Hay Makers, 6-8 7/5 – LaRose Duo, 3-5

TURTLE CREEK CASINO, WILLIAMSBURG WATERFALL, 8: 6/27 – Vertical Limit

BLU DOT FARM & VINEYARD, CHARLEVOIX

6/27 – Jessica Dominic, 4-7

6/28 – Jelly Roll Blues Band, 5-8

7/4 – Bill Oeming, 4-7

BOYNE CITY TAPROOM

6/27 – Adam & the Cabana Boys, 7

BOYNE RIVER INN, BOYNE CITY

7/2 – Nelson Olstrom, 7

ETHANOLOGY DISTILLATION, ELK RAPIDS

8-11:

6/27 – Harmolodics

7/3 – Tweed Tones

Antrim & Charlevoix

MUSKRAT DISTILLING, BOYNE CITY

6/24 -- Karaoke Night, 9

6/26 -- Sean Bielby, 6-9

7/1 – Karaoke Night, 9 7/3 – Timberline, 6

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

6/27 -- Jelly Roll Blues Band

7/3 -- Knee Deep 7/4 – Chirp

7/5 -- The Lavender Lions

THE DAM SHOP, ELK RAPIDS MARINA PATIO: 6/27 -- Brett Mitchell, 6-9

7/3 -- The Erly, 6-9

7/4 -- Silver Creek Revival, 6-9

7/5 -- Drew Hale, 5-8

TOONIE'S, BELLAIRE 6/27 -- Karaoke, 8

TORCH LAKE CAFE, CENTRAL LAKE

Thu -- Nick Vasquez, 6 Fri. & Sat. -- Leanna Collins & Ivan Greilick, 7

Otsego, Crawford & Central

ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY, GAYLORD

6/27 -- Matt Orlandi, 1-4; Brian Curran, 5-8

7/3 – Zeke, 1-4

7/4 – Lou Thumser, 1-4; David Lawston, 5-8

VANDERBILT VINES WINERY & TASTING ROOM

6/27 -- Nelson Olstrom, 3 7/4 – Big Dog Blues, 4-7

BEARDS BREWERY, PETOSKEY ROOT CELLAR:

6/27 & 7/3 -- Karaoke, 9-12

7/1 – Lavender Lions, 3:30-6:30

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS, PETOSKEY

6/27 – Michelle Chenard, 2-6

7/3 – Chris Calleja, 4-7:30

7/5 – Chris Calleja, 1:30-5

BRANDY'S HARBORTOWN, BAY HARBOR

PATIO:

6/27 – Derek Boik, 12:30

6/28 & 7/5 – Nick Visconti, 12:30

6/29 – Elisabeth Christe, 6

6/30 – Lee Fayssoux, 6

7/1 – Will Springsteen, 6

7/2 – Chris Calleja, 6

7/3 – Derek Boik, 6

7/4 – Ean Greer, 12:30

CITY PARK GRILL, PETOSKEY

7/3 – Annex Karaoke, 9:30

Emmet & Cheboygan

DOUGLAS LAKE BAR & STEAKHOUSE, PELLSTON

7/5 – Nelson Olstrom, 6

INN AT BAY HARBOR CABANA BAR: 6/28 – David Lawston, 5-8

INN BETWEEN, INDIAN RIVER

7/2 – Mike Ridley, 5-8

NOGGIN ROOM PUB, PETOSKEY

7-10:

6/27 -- Eric Jaqua

7/2 -- Lee Fayssoux

7/3 -- Holly Keller

7/4 -- Rob Yates Underleaf Duo

NORTHERN LIGHTS RECREATION, HARBOR SPRINGS

7/2 -- Trivia, 6:30

7/3 – Bill Oeming, 5:30-8:30

7/5 – Ty Parkin & The Old Souls, 6:30

ODAWA CASINO RESORT, PETOSKEY

VICTORIES, 9: 6/27 – DJ T-Bone

7/2 -- Classic Seger

7/4 – DJ Hotkeys

PIER RESTAURANT, HARBOR SPRINGS

7/1 – Mike Ridley, 5-8

POND HILL FARM, HARBOR SPRINGS

6/27 -- The Fox & The Fiddle, 5-8

6/28 -- Larz Cabot, 3-6

6/29 -- The Ampersands, 5:30

6/30 -- 1000 Watt Prophets, 5

7/1 -- Yankee Station, 5

7/2 -- Full Cord Bluegrass, 5

7/3 -- The Outfit, 5

7/5 -- Mike Snell, 3

NORTHERN EXPRESS CLASSIFIEDS

LOVE THE SUMMER HERE? STAY FOR A CAREER! Why just visit paradise when you can live and work here year-round? Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) in Traverse City seeks passionate individuals for full-time and part-time roles. Turn your vacation into a vocation and build a meaningful career in the place you love. NMC.edu/jobs NMC is an EOE Employer NMC.Edu/Non-Discrimination

AUTHOR BRYAN GRULEY SIGNS NEW NOVEL RIVER DEEP Acclaimed author Bryan Gruley signs and discusses his new Michigan novel, RIVER DEEP: Tues July 7, 1-3 pm, Horizon Books, 243 E Front Street, Traverse City; Wed July 8, 6 pm, Bellaire Public Library, 111 S Bridge, Bellaire; Thu July 9, McLean & Eakin Booksellers, 307 E Lake Street, Petoskey; Fri July 10, 3-5 pm, Dockside Books, 204 Bridge Street, Charlevoix

MONTESSORI PRIMARY GUIDE Seeking a Primary Guide at our main campus. We are a well-established top-tier Montessori school supporting students from 3 months to 14 years old. See link for job description. https://www. traversechildrenshouse.org/employment.asp

GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT AND SPAACCOUNTING RESORT CONTROLLER Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is seeking to fill the position of Resort Controller. For a full job description and to apply, please visit our website today!

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

SUMMER SERIES PRENATAL YOGA $15

DROP IN:: Tuesdays 6/16-8/4, 5:30pm,10781 E Cherry Bend Rd newmoonyogastudio. com/classes2

BUYING OLD WOODEN DUCK and FISH SPEARING DECOYS: BUYING OLD WOODEN DUCK and FISH SPEARING DECOYS, call, text 248 877-0210

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? I WILL COME TO YOU!: I can fix your digital issues. Phone, TV, tablet, computer set up. AND show you how to use them! Call James Downer, Advent

Tech. Your high tech handyman. 231-4922087

FREE WEEKLY ORIGINAL HOT YOGA COMMUNITY CLASS: EVERY WED. @ 7:30PM - 845 S. GARFIELD AVE ORIGINALHOTYOGATC.COM 231-392-4798

NIGHTLY, WEEKLY, MONTHLY STAYS NEAR TC!: “The Suites” Turnkey Homes & Motel. Travelers/Construction crews 231633-5464

CARPET INSTALLERS NEEDED: Bodamer Brothers Flooring is looking for 1 full-time carpet installation person or team. Paying $10 yard + extras. Paid once a week. Insured and experienced only. 231-941-8446 Dan