National Poetry Month Readings at the Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library
2025-04-16 17:30 - 19:00 UTC | MI
(ISHPEMING, MI) – Launched by the Academy of American Poets in April 1996, National Poetry Month is a special occasion that celebrates poets and poetry! We are excited to bring this celebration to the Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library by hosting two poetry readings on back-to-back evenings.
The first poetry reading will be on Wednesday, April 16th at 5:30pm, and it will feature local poets, Troy Graham and U.P. Poet Laureate, Beverly Matherne. This poetry performance will open with Troy Graham reading newly released poems followed by ’23-’24 U.P. Poet Laureate, Beverly Matherne’s performance of original poetry. Beverly Matherne is the author of seven bilingual books of poetry in French and English. Her latest, from Harvard Square Press, Love Potions, Teas, Incantations, is a collection inspired by paintings. She is currently completing a collection of haiku, a tribute to the Upper Peninsula. Troy Graham is a Marquette area singer-songwriter, performer and poet. He has self-published several books independently and in collective poetry groups. He has instructed dozens of interactive writing workshops for youth in schools, libraries and colleges.
The second event is on Thursday, April 17th at 5:30pm, and it will feature local poet, Kathleen M. Heideman and her new collection, The Caving Grounds. “Through poetry and historic research, ‘The Caving Grounds’ excavates the rubble of Negaunee, a small town in Upper Michigan hollowed by a century of mining. The extraction of hematite caused underground collapses and sinkholes; undermined neighborhoods were deemed unstable; homes, churches and even cemeteries were moved, and dangerous areas fenced. Thankfully, a guide will emerge: Rusty.”

MSHS Jazz Band Concert
2025-04-16 18:30 - 20:00 | MI
MSHS Jazz Band Concert
Wednesday, April 16, 2025. 6:30 p.m. -8:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Community Room. The public is invited to enjoy an evening of wonderful music performed by the Marquette Senior High School Jazz Band, led by MSHS Director Emily Morgan-Booth. Overflow seating will be located in the Shiras Room. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of this program, call 906-226-4321, email Amanda at apierce@pwpl.info, and visit www.pwpl.info.

UP Pesticide Applicator Training and Exams in Escanaba
2025-04-17 08:00 - 16:00 | MI
MSU Extension and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) will offer Pesticide Applicator Training and Exams in the Upper Peninsula at Bay College in Escanaba on April 17th, 2025 8:00am – 4:00pm ET. This event was rescheduled from the original date of April 3rd due to weather. The program includes a core manual review (RUP credits), lunch and MDARD exams (Training participation required for exam takers). Core exams (private and commercial) will be offered by MDARD, while Commercial Category exams will be available onsite through Bay College Testing Services. Four MDARD pesticide applicator recertification credits are available to those attending the Core Manual review. Details are available in the attached press release and flier. Please promote widely!

NMU Celebration of Student Scholarship
2025-04-17 09:00 - 17:00 | MI
Northern Michigan University will host its 29th annual Celebration of Student Scholarship on Thursday, April 17, beginning with an opening ceremony at 9 a.m. and continuing throughout the day in Jamrich Hall. This year’s event will feature a broader range of presentation formats beyond the traditional research posters and 10-minute oral presentations. Students were also invited to submit projects in the form of film and video, readings, roundtables, performances, publications, artistic displays and more.
The Celebration of Student Scholarship recognizes the scholarly and creative work of both undergraduate and graduate students, offering a platform to share their projects with the NMU and Marquette communities.
The event aims to make academic work more accessible to the public while honoring the dedication and accomplishments of NMU students and their faculty mentors. Find more information on the Celebration of Student Scholarship here.

Hancock - Puppy Parade
2025-04-17 17:00 - 19:30 | Hancock, MI
2025 Puppy Parade is April 17
Copper Shores Victim Support is asking the community to save the date for the fifth annual Puppy Parade. The event is Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The Puppy Parade will be held in downtown Hancock, starting at Quincy Green.

Held annually during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Puppy Parade is a community awareness event and solidarity walk for survivors of sexual assault. Attendees will have to opportunity to gather on Quincy Lawn with their furry friends before the walk and speak to Copper Shores Victim Advocates, as well as several local agencies that provide services and support to survivors of sexual assault. The event provides a safe environment for victims to seek support, for community members to gather resources and for families to practice hard conversations about sexual assault prevention with professionals nearby.

The Puppy Parade culminates in a walk through downtown Hancock with everyone’s four-legged friends. The “parade” serves as a public display of support for survivors of sexual assault within the community, while also bringing attention to the importance of sexual assault prevention here in the Copper Country.
More details about the Puppy Parade will be released as the event draws nearer, including event registration for attending dogs.

To stay up-to-date with Puppy Parade news, subscribe to Copper Shores’ free monthly newsletter at coppershores.org/newsletter.

NMU Presents "Jesus Christ Superstar"
2025-04-17 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-04-18 19:30 - 21:30 | MI
Northern Michigan University Theatre and Dance will present its adaptation of the iconic rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar,” the first musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice produced for the professional stage more than 50 years ago. Show dates are Thursday-Saturday, April 10-12 and 17-19 in Forest Roberts Theatre.
The story of the last week of Jesus’ life is told entirely through song. While based loosely on historical accounts from the Bible, co-directors Paul Truckey and Keli Crawford-Truckey say the themes addressed through depictions of the characters’ personal relationships and struggles are timeless, and relevant to diverse audiences.
“Obviously the rock-and-roll music is awesome, and presents the Passion of the Christ in more of a modern context, but the play really strikes a chord because it focuses on the humanness of Jesus–the temptations he faced, for example–not his divinity,” said Paul. “Some people called it blasphemy when it first came out. But they changed their minds when they saw the show because they could connect with the human part of who this person was, as well as others. [Pontius] Pilate is typically thought of as this evil character, but there’s more than meets the eye. He gets swayed by the crowds turning on Jesus and his own fears, but he actually has a very tender moment when he goes down to Jesus and says, ‘Look, just talk to me.’”
“People immediately associate the name Judas with traitor, but the play sympathizes a bit more with his struggle,” Keli added. “He’s constantly weighing and battling his conscience over what he thinks is right. That’s a daily human trial. Many in the crowd are the same way. They’re incredibly devout, then they’re incredibly fickle and turn on Jesus. Internal turmoil and relationship issues are things we all deal with as part of the human experience.”
Rather than the standard setting of Jerusalem, Northern’s production takes place in a “desolate, dry desert wasteland that was once Las Vegas,” Keli’s home city. She was inspired by the similarities she discovered in the song lyrics and storyline.
“I think it’s boring when it’s kept the way it’s always been done with Mary wearing Birkenstocks and a sundress in the desert,” she said. “I started thinking of the Mojave Desert near Vegas. And then I listened to the lyrics closely, and there’s a lot of rolling of the dice, risk-taking and gambling terms. [The high priests] Caiaphas and Annas kind of reminded me of the people in the little bubble in the ceiling at casinos, monitoring all the tables below to make sure no one’s cheating and they’re profiting. There are parallels everywhere. So it’s a different approach to this production, but it’s fun.”
Cast members include Marquette native and Forest Roberts Theatre veteran John Thomson as Judas, Asa Naigus as Jesus and Hannah Johnson as Mary Magdalene.
“I think people are going to be stunned by the amount of talent in this production,” Paul said. “The cast has been wonderful to work with. They’ve been really innovative and collaborative, helping us to create special moments on stage. It demonstrates the reality of the whole new level we’re operating at now, with the BFA in musical theater program. It’s a real pleasure to be part of it.”
Please note that “Jesus Christ Superstar” is meant for mature audiences. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, April 10-12 and 17-19, with a 1 p.m. “pay as you may” Theatre for All sensory friendly matinee on April 12, and an additional 1 p.m. matinee on April 19. Tickets are $25 for the general public; $22 for NMU employees, seniors and military; $15 for youth; and $5 for NMU students. They can be purchased at https://nmu.universitytickets.com/.

Trio of Outdoor Industry Business Innovators to Give Public Talk at NMU
2025-04-18 10:00 - 12:00 | MI
Northern Michigan University’s master’s degree program in Administration of Outdoor Recreation and Nature-Based Tourism has invited three related business-oriented innovators to campus for a public presentation: keynote speaker Bob Jacquart, owner of Stormy Kromer and Copper Peak; Joe Thiel from Innovate Marquette; and Phil Britton from the Outdoor Recreation Innovation Action Network (ORIAN). The free event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, April 18, in Northern Center Peninsula II.
Jacquart will talk about positive leadership in the industry in a challenging financial environment. Thiel will talk about future impacts of electrification and mobility on the outdoor recreation industry. Britton will speak about ORIAN, a project to bring outdoor recreation product development and manufacturing to the central Upper Peninsula to diversify its economy.
Each year, the students in NMU’s online master’s degree program come to campus for a three-day seminar. They end the seminar with a public event and invite speakers to participate.
The Administration of Outdoor Recreation and Nature-Based Tourism (AORNBT) program is for a wide range of people who would like to work at an administrative level in the field of recreation, outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism. It is built for flexibility, delivered entirely online with two seminar sessions on campus. Learn more here.

NMU Presents 'Jesus Christ Superstar'
2025-04-19 19:30 - 21:30 | MI

Cyber Clinic: Artificial Intelligence
2025-04-21 18:00 - 19:00 | MI
Cyber Clinic: Artificial Intelligence
Monday April 21, 2025. 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Shiras Room. In partnership with the Upper Peninsula Cybersecurity Institute. Staying safe online and recognizing scams in today’s ever changing cyber world is difficult. Peter White Public Library is working in partnership with the UPCI to bring the Marquette community authoritative and up-to-date information about computer and internet safety in our new program series “Cyber Clinic”. Cyber Clinic: Artificial Intelligence will give attendees the opportunity to learn about the basics of AI and how to navigate an online world where AI is increasingly prevalent. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of AI! Questions may be submitted ahead of time by emailing upcyber@nmu.edu. No admission charge. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4319 or visit www.pwpl.info.

Great Lakes Poetry Festival Kick-Off: The Women of Harvard Square Press
2025-04-21 18:30 - 20:00 | MI
Great Lakes Poetry Festival Kick-Off: The Women of Harvard Square Press Monday, April 21, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Community Room. Adults, Seniors, Teens. PWPL launches the Great Lakes Poetry Festival with this reading celebrating the women of Harvard Square Press. Enjoy the poetic voices of Beverly Matherne, Claudia Drosen, Randi Clemens, Lynn Domina, Helen Haskell Remien, and Kathleen M. Heideman, among others. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference at NMU
2025-04-22 08:00 - 16:30 | MI
Northern Michigan University will host the 2025 Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, at the Northern Center. The event will showcase developing trends in cannabis education and research, featuring insights from industry leaders and experts at the forefront of the evolving sector. The schedule includes speakers, an NMU alumni panel discussion, a networking lunch and student oral presentations/research posters.
The conference aims to foster progress in cannabis education and scholarship through open dialogue, the exchange of information and ideas, and the celebration of student and faculty achievements.
Presentations include: “Deciphering the Complex Phytochemistry of Cannabis: From Plant to Extracts,” by Iain W. H. Oswald, director of Research and Development at Abstrax Tech; “The Socioeconomic Benefits of Cannabis Opt-in Within a Municipality,” by the City of Detroit’s Office of Cannabis Affairs; “The Present and Future of Cannabis Regulations in Michigan, featuring Brian Hanna, executive director of Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency; and “Social Equity in Motion: From Policy to Profits,” by Jess Jackson, director of social equity in Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management and a member of the Board of Directors for the Redemption Foundation.
An NMU alumni panel will feature five confirmed speakers: Ishani Sharma, a cannabis research student; Morgan Naumann, retail director and cultivation supervisor at Boreal Cannabis; Christopher Aguilar, team lead at Higher Love Cannabis Co. and owner of Transparent Farms; Sam Frishman, assistant head grower at High Society; and Samuel Hummel, propagation/small veg team member at Higher Love Cannabis Co.
The community is invited to a post-conference presentation titled “The Science of Scent: Exploring Cannabis’s Complex Aromatic Influences” by cannabis research scientist Twinke Paryani, who will be a guest speaker in Professor Alex Wilson’s medicinal plant chemistry seminar. The talk is scheduled from 5-5:50 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, in The Science Building 2904.
NMU’s Medicinal Plant Chemistry program, launched in fall 2017, was the first four-year undergraduate degree of its kind. The program is designed to prepare students for success in the emerging industries related to medicinal plant production, analysis, and distribution.
Find more information on the Great Lakes Cannabis Collaboration Conference here.

Great Lakes Poetry Festival Headline Poet: Kimberly Blaeser Reading
2025-04-22 18:30 - 19:30 | MI
Great Lakes Poetry Festival Headline Poet: Kimberly Blaeser Reading
Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Peter White Public Library Community Room. Teens, Adults, Seniors. Acclaimed poet Kimberly Blaeser, former Wisconsin Poet Laureate and author of six poetry collections, reads from her reads from her work. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

NMU Career Day
2025-04-23 09:00 - 13:00 | MI
Northern Michigan University will host Career Day for about 1,000 students from more than 20 high schools across the Upper Peninsula on Wednesday, April 23. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northern Center. Students will have an opportunity to chat about career and educational opportunities with representatives of 45 participating employers and many of NMU’s academic departments.
Almost half of the students will spend extra time on campus taking tours of Northern through the Campus Visit Office. Career Day is a partnership between NMU (the offices of Student Success, Career Services and Admissions) and UP Michigan Works.

Great Lakes Poetry Festival Dinner & a Movie: Paterson
2025-04-23 18:00 - 20:00 | MI
Great Lakes Poetry Festival Dinner & a Movie: Paterson
Wednesday, April 23, 2025. 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Community Room. Adults, Teens, Seniors. As part of the Great Lakes Poetry Festival, PWPL invites you to bring your dinner, sit at a table, and enjoy a screening of director Jim Jarmusch’s acclaimed, Palm Dog-winning film Paterson, starring Adam Driver as a bus driver/poet from Paterson, New Jersey. Rated R. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

The Marquette Regional History Center presents: A Community Under the Stars: 60 Years of Shiras Planetarium
2025-04-23 18:30 - 20:00 | MI
The Marquette Regional History Center presents:
A Community Under the Stars: 60 Years of Shiras Planetarium
Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.

Join us as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Shiras Planetarium here in Marquette with a special panel discussion featuring past and present directors. We will explore the evolution of this iconic facility, from its founding in 1965 to its upcoming transformation in 2025. Discover how the planetarium has inspired generations through education and innovation, and hear stories of its impact on the community. Featured panelists include past and current planetarium directors: Scott Stobbelaar, Chris Standerford, Becky LaBrecque, and current technical director, Jacob Phillips. Bring your questions and memories as we reflect on six decades of reaching for the stars. Former planetarium equipment will be on display this evening, and here at the MRHC from mid-April through mid-May. $5 suggested donation. For more info visit marquettehistory.org or call 906.226.3571.

UP Michigan Works! Marquette Career Launchpad
2025-04-24 16:00 - 18:00 | MI
MARQUETTE, Mich— UP Michigan Works! is excited to announce the Marquette Career Launchpad Event, taking place on April 24th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at our Marquette MI Works Office, located at 1498 O’Dovero Dr. This event is designed to present career path options to high school seniors who are considering a gap year or have decided not to pursue college. We aim to connect these students with employment opportunities that require a GED or high school diploma and offer a clear career pathway for their future.
Event Highlights:

Job Fair: Students will have the opportunity to speak directly with employers who are willing to hire individuals straight out of high school.

Union Representation & Apprenticeships: Information on union representation and apprenticeship options will be available.

VR Headsets: Try out various occupations through virtual reality experiences.

Career Path Discussions: Experts will be on hand to discuss career opportunities and review resumes.

Presentation by UP Michigan Works!: Learn about our services and how we support career seekers.

Networking & Refreshments: Enjoy time for networking and refreshments.

We are inviting high school seniors from every high school in Marquette County to attend. Those who register in advance will be eligible for door prizes. To sign up, please visit our website or contact us directly.
Contact Information:

Phone: 906-228-3075

Website: https://upmichiganworks.org/events/career-launchpad/

Join us for an informative and engaging event that will help launch your career!

The Rainbow Rendezvous
2025-04-24 18:00 - 21:00 | MI
UP Rainbow Pride (UPRP) is excited about hosting two events in April aimed at building community and offering
a safe, affirming, and social space for the LGBTQIA+ community in Marquette County and beyond. The aim of
these events is to create an all-ages space where LGBTQIA community members and allies can celebrate
fellowship and fabulousness.
On Thursday, April 24th, UPRP welcomes the public to The Rainbow Rendezvous at the Up North Lodge in Gwinn.
The event will run from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. and will feature live music by the Make Believe Spurs. A full cash bar will be
available and attendees can order from UP North Lodge’s menu during the event. All ages are welcome. It is the
organization’s first event in Forsyth Township and UPRP anticipates an excellent turnout.
The Up North Lodge is located at 215 Co. Rd 557 in Gwinn.

Great Lakes Poetry Festival Keynote Poet: Jeff Kass Reading
2025-04-24 18:30 - 19:30 | MI
Great Lakes Poetry Festival Keynote Poet: Jeff Kass Reading
Thursday, April 24, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Peter White Public Library Community Room. Adults, Seniors, Teens. GLPF Keynote Poet Jeff Kass, author of the Michigan Notable Book Teacher/Pizza Guy, reads from his recently released collection True Believer, poems that delve into the origins of the Marvel superheroes. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl..info, or visit pwpl.info.

Marquette - NMU Free Cybersecurity Summer Camp for Kids
2025-04-25 00:00 - 2025-05-16 23:59 | MI
NMU Free Cybersecurity Summer Camp Seeks Applicants
Students entering grades 9-11 in the fall are invited to apply for a free, weeklong residential Cybersecurity Summer Camp hosted by the Upper Peninsula Cybersecurity Institute at Northern Michigan University, with support from the Central U.P. MiSTEM Network and Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center. The camp will take place July 13-18 at NMU. It is designed to introduce students to the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity through a blend of virtual and in-person experiences. The application deadline is May 16.
The program begins with a virtual component in June 2025, consisting of approximately four hours of synchronous learning and six to eight hours of asynchronous activities. On Sunday, July 13, accepted students will arrive on NMU’s campus in Marquette to begin the in-person portion of the camp, where they will stay in a university residence hall.
All instruction and hands-on learning will take place in NMU’s Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center. Campers will explore core concepts in cybersecurity, including ethical hacking, introductory programming, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, and career pathways in the cybersecurity field. Instruction will be led by experienced educators in an immersive, hands-on format.
In addition to academic sessions, campers will participate in organized recreational activities during the evenings to build camaraderie and enhance the overall experience. After the in-person portion concludes, participants will engage in a final round of virtual activities to reinforce their learning.
There is no cost to attend the camp for accepted applicants. For more information or to apply, click here.

MSMarquette - NMU Seaborg Center Summer of STEM for Kids
2025-04-25 00:00 - 2025-06-10 23:59 | MI
NMU Seaborg Center Offers Kids ‘Summer of STEM’
Northern Michigan University’s Glenn T. Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center will host a series of summer programs for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. These programs are designed to foster curiosity, creativity and career exploration through immersive, hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Summer College for Kids, open to students in grades K–8, provides engaging educational opportunities. Grades K–6 will explore topics such as LEGO robotics, coding fundamentals and other STEM-related subjects through hands-on, minds-on classes. Grades 7–8 will participate in career-focused STEM exploration, including visits to local businesses and industry partners.
Sessions will run June 23–27 and July 7–11, with morning classes held from 9 a.m. to noon and optional afternoon classes from 1-4 p.m. An optional supervised Lunch Bunch session is available from noon to 1 p.m., where students can bring their own lunch. The cost is $75 per class, and an extra $10 for optional lunch supervision.
Camp Infinity, running July 21–25, is a full-day technology camp for girls in grades 5–8. The program introduces participants to computer and internet technologies through engaging, instructor-led activities. The camp runs 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and includes a light breakfast and lunch. The cost is $125 for the week.
For details on how to register for any of the programs, visit nmu.edu/seaborg or contact the Glenn T. Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center at 906-227-2002.

Great Lakes Poetry Festival: Cindy Hunter Morgan Writing Workshop
2025-04-25 10:00 - 12:00 | MI
Great Lakes Poetry Festival: Cindy Hunter Morgan Writing Workshop
Friday, April 25, 2025. 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Shiras Room. Adults, Seniors. In this workshop, Cindy Hunter Morgan, author of the Michigan Notable Book Harborless, guides participants through writing prompts to generate new work. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info to register.

NMU Hosts First 'Water is Life' Festival
2025-04-25 10:00 - 21:00 | MI
Northern Michigan University’s Center for Native American Studies will host Marquette’s first “Water is Life Festival” on Friday, April 25. The event will bring together Indigenous teachers, local and regional musicians, performance artists, visual and material artists, and grassroots environmental advocates from throughout the Upper Peninsula. Admission to all activities is free.
The festival includes a full day of activities outlined below. It will culminate with evening water-themed performances from 6-9 p.m. in NMU’s Hedgcock Atrium by the Sister Tour, Marquette Fringe, and Supaman.
10 a.m. to noon: From Dome to Dead River guided cultural trail walk with the City of Marquette’s Arts and Culture Office (meet at the east side of the Superior Dome)
Noon to 1:15 p.m.: Water protectors will participate in a panel discussion to share their experiences and discuss the importance of celebrating and protecting waterways and ecosystems in Jamrich 1320
1-4 p.m.: Earth Week tabling event in Jamrich Hall. Learn about community partners with opportunities to join water protector networks and learn about water.
5-9 p.m.: Hedgcock Art Explorations, featuring canoe painting, a student art exposition and interactive art
“Water is Life” is also known as “Mni Wiconi” in Lakhotiyapi or “Nibi Biimaadezewin” in Anishinaabemowin. This simple biological fact has become a powerful organizing framework for Indigenous-led cultural celebrations and activism around connections with water.
The NMU Center for Native American Studies received support for the inaugural festival celebrating this resource from the Department of Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences; the School of Art & Design; Biology Department; the Hiawatha Music Co-op and several others. Learn more here.

NMU Theatre and Dance to Present Alumni Awards
2025-04-25 18:00 - 21:00 | MI
Northern Michigan University’s Theatre and Dance program will host its Alumni Awards from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at Forest Roberts Theatre. The event will honor exceptional achievements in theatre, dance and entertainment arts.
The weekend’s festivities will begin Friday, April 25, with a welcome reception at 6 p.m. in the Forest Roberts Theatre lobby, followed by the Theatre and Dance Senior Showcase performance at 7:30 p.m. and a post-show reception at 8:30 p.m., also in the lobby.
“This event promises to be a remarkable gathering of NMU Theatre and Dance alumni, NMU community members, theatre patrons and donors, all coming together to honor the contributions and accomplishments of our outstanding alumni,” said Bill Digneit, NMU Theatre and Dance producer and department head.
The Circle of Champions distinction is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the success and legacy of NMU’s Theatre and Dance program. This year’s honorees are Steve Young and Tricia Kinley, both retired and residing in Lansing.
Young is the chair of the NMU Board of Trustees and a former owner and executive at the Lansing-based lobbying firm Governmental Consultant Services, Inc. He spent more than 40 years in state government affairs in Lansing.
Kinley spent 25 years in state government affairs, serving with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and former Gov. Rick Snyder. She recently completed a term on the Mackinac Bridge Authority. Both Young and Kinley are avid supporters of the performing arts and frequently attend live entertainment events.
The Outstanding Alumni–Hall of Fame Award recognizes those who have built sustained and impactful careers in the entertainment arts. This year’s recipients are 1989 graduate Kevin Mayfield and 1962 alumnus Dr. Gregory Kunesh, who recently passed away in February.
Mayfield is an AV project/site manager and sustaining technician with a career serving theme park attractions, museums and retail establishments. He worked at Universal Orlando for 24 years before joining Electrosonic.
Kunesh was the founder of the University of Oklahoma’s musical theater program and a retired director. During his tenure at OU, he served as a faculty member in the School of Drama, director of the School of Drama, and director of the A. Max Weitzenhoffer School of Musical Theatre. He retired in 2005 as chairman and professor emeritus, but returned in 2009 to serve as interim director until July 2011.
The Outstanding Young Alumni award honors individuals 40 years of age and under who have achieved notable success in professional or educational theatre, dance, or arts-related industries. This year’s recipients are Kristen Priest and Courtney Anderson Kelly (Brown), both from the Class of 2014.
Priest is a theatre professional and educator passionate about storytelling, mentorship and community arts. After earning her bachelor’s degree in theatre and entertainment arts from NMU, she completed an MFA in television, film and theatre production at California State University, Los Angeles. Priest has worked with organizations including the Ford Amphitheatre, Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles Opera, FX Network and CryptTV. She currently teaches advanced English and drama at Saranac High School in Michigan, where she directs three productions annually.
Anderson Kelly (Brown) is a freelance costume designer and wardrobe technician based in Michigan. She earned her MFA in theater with a focus on costume design and technology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. As an undergraduate at NMU, she was active as a production stage manager and in the costume shop and wardrobe crew. She currently serves as an adjunct instructor and resident costume designer at Saginaw Valley State University.
The Rising Stars Award celebrates alumni within 10 years of graduation who have achieved significant early success in the entertainment arts. This year’s inaugural honorees are Audree Stephens, class of 2020, and Caitlin Palomaki, class of 2023.
Stephens is a screenwriter, musician, director, producer and actress. She graduated with a B.S. in theater and a minor in dance. Since then, she has acted professionally in theater and film, started a successful indie rock band called Iridescence, written and directed three short films and music videos, and signed an 18-month option contract for her thesis script, But I’m a Virgin.
Palomaki earned her bachelor’s degree in music education and worked closely with NMU’s theater program as an actor, music director and pit conductor. Now in her third year of teaching at Ishpeming Public Schools, she leads the middle and high school choirs and serves as drama club adviser. Under her direction, the school’s theater program has flourished, with more than a quarter of the student body participating. Palomaki was recently named the district’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.
For more information on this event, please contact Digneit via email at wdigneit@nmu.edu or 906-360-0751.

Marquette - NMU Theatre and Dance Senior Showcase
2025-04-25 19:30 | MI
Northern Michigan University Theatre and Dance will highlight and celebrate the talents of the department’s graduating students with its inaugural Senior Showcase at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 25. A second performance will be held on Mackinac Island for industry professionals from New York and major regional theaters on Tuesday, May 20.
“Showcases are shorter than full shows, owing to the busy schedules of the agents, casting directors and artistic directors who attend, so this will feature short scenes and songs in a variety-show format, just over an hour in length,” said Director Jimmy Ludwig. “It’s fairly standard for BFA programs to put together a performance showcase to facilitate the graduating students’ transition from educational theater to the profession. Our faculty has deep ties to the Industry, so we’re very excited to capitalize on that and begin the showcase tradition at Northern as our first full class of BFA actors and musical theater majors prepares to graduate.”
While showcase presentations are quite common, most universities either have students travel to New York—often at their own expense—or invite industry professionals to campus. Producer and Department Head Bill Digneit wanted Northern to adopt a unique approach to the event, so he came up with the idea of hosting it on Mackinac Island. A generous gift from NMU Board Chair Steve Young and his wife, Tricia Kinley, made it possible for the department to provide significant support to students for this experience, helping to ease the financial burden as they prepare to launch their professional careers.
“Our students represent multiple disciplines—musical theater, acting and dance—which means we want to engage industry professionals from across major markets like Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Atlanta and regional theaters,” said Artistic Director and Assistant Department Head Jill Grundstrom. “We also wanted to create a space where our students could have meaningful, dedicated time with these guests—taking workshops, asking questions and building connections. Mackinac Island offers the perfect setting for this. It’s a beautiful, peaceful destination where industry professionals are happy to escape the hustle and bustle while connecting with the next generation of talent.”
For this inaugural year, NMU Theatre and Dance faculty compiled a comprehensive list of personal industry connections from across the country. They specifically considered the graduating students’ strengths when selecting guests to invite. The hope is to have about five confirmed attendees. A few contacts who are unable to attend in person will be watching a video capture of the performance instead, Grundstrom said.
“This initiative helps elevate the visibility of our students, our program, and NMU as a whole within the industry,” she added. “It’s a significant step in building a national brand for the performing arts at NMU. We keep reminding the seniors, “You’re the first—the pioneers. This is a big deal! Twenty years from now, when we look back through the archives, your class will always be the one that started it all. Our goal is to establish lasting connections and pipelines that benefit not only our graduating students, but also those earlier in the program, giving them opportunities to start networking and exploring professional paths from the start.”
The 12 graduating students who will be featured in the Senior Showcase are Michael Ahlstrom, Gianna Daprai, John Fuller, Lia Hielkema, Emma Houston, Maisie James, Rhiannyn McCauley, DaShawn Mitchell, Maya Moreau, Amaraé Robinson, Wyatt Schmitt and John Thomson.

NMU Theatre and Dance Presents Senior Showcase
2025-04-25 19:30 - 21:30 | MI

Downtown Marquette Farmers Market Membership Sale & Special Preview Market Event
2025-04-26 09:00 - 13:00 | MI
The Downtown Marquette Farmers Market is excited to announce a one-day Membership Sale & Preview Market happening Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Marquette Commons. This special event invites the community to kick off the market season early with a taste of what’s to come—and a chance to support local food, art, and small businesses.
Be the First to Shop the 2025 Season
The Preview Market will feature a small selection of returning and new vendors offering early-season goods—from fresh-baked treats and small-batch goods to handcrafted items. It’s a sneak peek at the flavors and creativity the full season will bring.
Market Memberships Sale!
While shopping, consider becoming a 2025 Market Member by donating $100 (cash or check) or $105 (card). Members help sustain our market and receive exclusive benefits all season long, including:

Early access: Shop 15 minutes before the opening bell
Discounts on market merchandise
The opportunity to ring the opening bell
Special members-only activities throughout the season

Only 100 memberships are available for the 2025 season, and this year’s limited-edition pin celebrates the Year of the Blueberry! As a member, you’re not just getting perks, you are investing in a strong local food system and a vibrant community.

Arnold - UP Pink Power 17-Mile Walk Fundraiser
2025-04-26 10:00 | Gary’s Knotty Pine, 47236 County Road 426, Arnold, Michigan, 49819
17-Mile Walk from Knotty Pine to Up North Lodge to Benefit UP Pink Power
On Saturday, April 26th, 2025, join us for a 17-mile walk from the Knotty Pine to the Up North Lodge to support UP Pink Power, a dedicated organization focused on helping residents of the Upper Michigan with catastrophic events in their life.
Participants will embark on a 17-mile walk that will include over 25 pit stops and a lunch at the half way point, united in the cause of raising awareness and funds for UP Pink Power. All proceeds from the walk will go directly to UP Pink Power’s assistance for local families in need during treatment or tragedy.
Registration for the event will be held on Friday, April 25th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Up North Lodge and Knotty Pine, and the morning of the walk from 8:00 – 9:15 AM at the Knotty Pine. Participants who raise at least $100 will receive a walk t-shirt. There are bonus prizes for those who raise more.
The walk will start at Knotty Pine at 10:00 AM, with participants making their way to the Up North Lodge Event Center for a celebratory finish that will include a DJ, spaghetti dinner and cash bar. Refreshments and snacks will be available along the route, ensuring walkers stay energized and hydrated.
“This walk represents so much more than just a physical challenge—it’s an opportunity for the Upper Peninsula community to come together and show our support for those affected by tragedy,” said Erin Sorensen, a Board Member of UP Pink Power. “Every step taken, every dollar raised, brings us closer to
ensuring that no Yoopers face their challenges alone.”
See the UP Pink Power website for additional information, morning of the walk bus transportation information, and walk pledge forms.
Event Details:
 Date: Saturday, April 26th, 2025
 Start Time: 10:00 AM
 Start Location: Knotty Pine
 End Location: Up North Lodge
 All proceeds benefit UP Pink Power.

Houghton - Spring Bazaar
2025-04-26 12:00 - 15:00 | Saints Peter and Paul Lutheran Church, 1010 Madeleine Street, Houghton, Michigan, 49931
Dorcas Society of SS Peter & Paul Lutheran, 1010 Madeleine, Houghton, is holding its Spring Bazaar on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from noon-3:00 pm. Funds raised go toward missions, both near and far.

Great Lakes Poetry Festival: 2024 International 3-Day Chapbook Contest Reading & Award Ceremony
2025-04-26 13:00 - 15:00 | MI
Great Lakes Poetry Festival: 2024 International 3-Day Chapbook Contest Reading & Award Ceremony
Saturday, April 26, 2025. 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Peter White Public Library Community Room. Enjoy readings by the three winners of the 2024 3-Day International Chapbook Competition that was judged by award-winning poet Diane Glancy. No admission charge. For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.
