CANCELLED - Family Nature Exploration: What's a Watershed
2023-06-11 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Did you know you live in a watershed? What is a watershed? Come learn about your local watershed and explore how your daily activities within it can impact the health of our lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater. Join Ms. Kristy as we conduct a science experiment or two to help us understand what a watershed is and how we can keep it heathy. Afterwards we will do a topic related art project with Mrs. Gordon. All materials are included. Space is limited so register early.
Class Fee: $5.00 per person.
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from The Americana Foundation. Additional support provided by Michigan Arts and Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.
This class was cancelled.

Fish Windsock (Elementary Art Class)
2023-06-14 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will create a unique fabric fish windsock while learning basic printing and painting techniques. All materials are included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
Pre-registration is required. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568208305337 or call 906-484-1333

Froggy Sculpture
2023-06-28 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will create frogs using polymer clay and fabric. First they will learn the pinch, coil and slab techniques to create frog sculptures. While these clay sculptures are baking, we will be creating a simple fabric frog. All materials are included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
Pre-registration is required to attend.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568269337887

Create a Beaded Frog (1:00 PM Class)
2023-07-07 13:00 - 14:00
THIS CLASS IS FULL. – Please consider signing up for the 2:30 – 3:30 session.
Stop in the Hessel School House on Friday, July 7 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM to create a colorful beaded frog pet to hang on your backpack or wear as a necklace. Choose from a variety of frog patterns to make your festival-ready frog. This is a great activity to kick off the area wide Frog Fest. This class is geared for children ages 6-11 years old.
Class fee: $20 per child. All materials and instruction by artist Marissa Wissner are included.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/594095554797

Create a Beaded Frog (2:30 PM Class)
2023-07-07 14:30 - 15:30
Stop in the Hessel School House on Friday, July 7 from 2:30 – 3:30 PM to create a colorful beaded frog pet to hang on your backpack or wear as a necklace. Choose from a variety of frog patterns to make your festival-ready frog. This is a great activity to kick off the area wide Frog Fest. This class is geared for children ages 6-11 years old.
Class fee: $20 per child. All materials and instruction by artist Marissa Wissner are included.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/672399443837

Paint a Lawn Frog
2023-07-08 10:00 - 13:00
Join us at the Hessel School House from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM to paint an outdoor lawn frog!
We will have large blank wood cutouts of fun frogs that you can paint and take home. Cutouts will be available while supplies last. There is not fee or registration for this event. Donations are appreciated.
This event is being held in conjunction with the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council’s FROG FEST.

Elementary Art - Sock Animal
2023-07-12 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will learn how to create an adorable sock animal using simple sewing techniques. With a sock, some thread, needles, and stuffing, students will create a unique animal brimming with character. All materials are included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568278645727

Watercolor Painting (Elementary Art)
2023-07-19 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will be using watercolor paints to create colorful works of art. They will learn watercolor techniques, color mixing, and crayon resist methods of painting. A wonderful class to inspire young artists. All materials are included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
Pre-registration is required to attend.
TO REGISTER, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568287131107

Family Nature Exploration: Macroinvertebrates (aka Water Bugs)
2023-07-23 15:00 - 17:00
Come explore the underwater world of aquatic bugs, also known as macroinvertebrates. These tiny vertebrates what are visible to the naked eye are crucial food sources for larger animals and an excellent indicator of stream health. Young naturalists will view many examples while we learn about their unique qualities. Afterwards we will do a special nature-based craft project with Mrs. Gordon. All materials are included. $5.00 per person.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/641590062147

This class is offered at a discount thanks to funding from The Americana Foundation, Michigan Arts & Culture Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Story & Craft Time with the Author
2023-07-24 13:00 - 15:00
Help us celebrate the release of the book “Who Am I?” by local author Julie Buchholtz. Children of all ages will enjoy a reading by the author followed by a Q&A session where children are free to ask Julie questions about being a writer. A craft time inspired by the book follows.
Introducing children to an author can be a formative moment. It may be the spark that lights a passion for writing in a young person that could last a lifetime! This event is fun and educational for all ages. Please register online to save your seats. Space is limited for this FREE event.
Books will be available for purchase and signing.
REGISTER ALL CHILD SEATS HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/626538482467

Clay Sculptures (Elementary Art)
2023-07-26 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will have fun creating beautiful animals and bowl sculptures out of polymer clay. They will learn the pinch, coil, and slab techniques to create their one-of-a-kind creations. All materials are included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568294162137

Build a Paddle Boat (Elementary Art)
2023-08-09 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will be building their own wooden paddle wheel boat. Once the glue and paint is dry the boat can be set in motion by winding up the paddle wheel. A fun project for your future boat builder. All materials are included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568303279407

CANCELLED - Elementary Art - Landscape Painting
2023-08-16 10:00 - 12:00
Due to lack of registrants, this class has been cancelled.
Come paint your own masterpiece! Students ages 6-11 years old will discover acrylic paints while creating a beautiful landscape scene. This class will teach young artists how to mix paints, handle brushes, and translate what they see onto the canvas. All materials and instruction included. Class is $20 per student.

Family Nature Exploration: Time For Turtles
2023-08-20 15:00 - 17:00
Ubiquitous and slow-moving, turtles are among Michigan’s most easy-to-study animals. This family exploration time introduces young naturalists to the biology of turtles in a fun and exciting way – through a combination of hands-on science and art. $5.00 per person. Pre-register online.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/641601727037
This class is offered at a discount thanks to funding from The Americana Foundation, Michigan Arts & Culture Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Pastel Sunset (Elementary Art)
2023-08-23 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will use pastels to create a colorful sunset. Using an easy stencil technique to create a mountain background with beautiful rays of color as the sun goes down. All materials and instruction included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568387802217

Printing Magic (Elementary Art Class)
2023-08-30 10:00 - 12:00
Students ages 6-11 years old will learn a variety of printing techniques. They will create a simple relief fish and leaves print. They will also be printing with celery, apples, and potatoes to create one-of-a-kind works of art as they discover the magic of printing.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568392546407

CANCELLED - Elementary Art Class - String Painting and Pastels
2023-09-09 10:00 - 12:00
Elementary students ages 6-11 are invited to join us for a captivating artistic experience as we explore the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights through string painting and pastels.
Discover the unique technique of string painting, where vibrant colors are blended and intertwined to create stunning visual effects. Learn how to use pastels to capture the ethereal glow and magical hues of the Northern Lights.
Class fee is $20 per child and includes all materials and instruction.

CANCELLED - Family Nature Exploration - We're Nuts About Seed
2023-09-23 10:00 - 12:00
Dive into the magical world of seeds during this interactive family event and learn why seeds are so important through hands on activities. We will take a close look at seeds, do a seed scavenger hunt and create works of art with seeds. It will be a fun time for all ages. $5.00 per person.

This event is offered at a discount thanks to support from The Americana Foundation.

CANCELLED - Let's Paint with Acrylics
2023-10-07 10:00 - 12:00
Children ages 6-11 years old are welcome to join us for a fun-filled morning of creativity at our Elementary Art – Let’s Paint with Acrylics class! Whether your child is an aspiring artist or just loves art and learning, this event is perfect for them. During this class, kids will have the opportunity to explore their artistic talents and learn the basics of acrylic painting. Cheryl Gordon will guide them through various techniques and help them create their own masterpiece to take home. They’ll also have the chance to meet other young artists and make new friends who share their passion for art.
$20 per student. Includes instruction and all materials.

CANCELLED - Let's Have a Bat Chat - Family Nature Exploration
2023-10-21 10:00 - 12:00
Let’s Have a Bat Chat – Family Nature Exploration
Join us for an exciting and educational adventure during our Family Nature Exploration event – “Let’s Have a Bat Chat”. Get ready to delve into the fascinating world of bats and discover their incredible abilities.
Come explore the hidden lives of bats through an engaging presentation and interactive activities. Learn about their unique behaviors, the importance of their role in the ecosystem, and the various species that inhabit our surroundings. We will shed some light on their remarkable adaptations, such as echolocation, and gain a deeper understanding of their significance in maintaining a balanced environment.
Pre-registration is required. Class fee is $5.00 per person.
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from The Americana Foundation.

Elementary Art - Polymer Clay Animal Sculptures
2023-11-04 10:00 - 12:00
Come join us for a fun-filled day of creativity and imagination at our Elementary Art class on Saturday November 4th from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Hessel School House. Children ages 6-11 years old are inited to unleash their inner artist and learn the art of sculpting adorable animal figures using polymer clay.
During this event, you will be guided by Cheryl Gordon who will teach the various techniques to create fun and colorful animal sculptures. From cute puppies to graceful birds, the possibilities are endless!
Space is limited, so make sure to secure your spot in advance. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!
$20 per child. Register online or call 906-484-1333.

Elves Day Out
2023-12-09 09:00 - 14:00
Elves Day Out ~ A Holiday Gift Making Workshop JUST FOR KIDS!
Saturday, December 9
Choose Your Time ~ 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM or 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Only 12 seats available per session! Register early to save your seat!
Children ages 7 and up will have an opportunity to create handmade gifts for up to 4 people. Our holiday elves (aka Volunteers) will help your child transform their holiday gift giving list into magical handmade creations! Children will work along side our elves at four different workbench stations as they make their handmade treasures, which will be wrapped and ready for gift giving, not to be opened before December 25th! Before the event, children are highly encouraged to make a list of up to four people they would like to make a gift for and some of their favorite things. This will help our volunteers determine which crafts would be suitable for your child to make for each person. Workshop Fee: $10.00 per child. Pre-registration is required. To register your child, call 906-484-1333 or register online.
While your little elves are busy making Christmas gifts, you can take this time finish up some holiday shopping or simply relax!

Elementary Art - Sock Snowman Sculpture
2024-01-06 10:00 - 12:00
Elementary Art Class – Sock Snowman Sculpture
Join us for a fun-filled Elementary Art Class where kids ages 6 and up will create adorable Sock Snowman Sculptures.
During this hands-on workshop, Cheryl Gordon will guide the children through the process of creating their own unique snowman sculptures using socks and various craft materials. They will learn how to stuff, shape, and decorate their snowmen, resulting in delightful winter decorations to cherish year round. We provide all the necessary materials.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity for your child to learn and have a blast! Limited spots are available, so be sure to reserve your child’s place now.
Class Fee: $20 per child
Class Size: Min. 4 students/ Max. 10 students
Register by calling 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE

Nature Soup - An all sensory nature experience for children
2024-01-27 13:00 - 15:00
Nature Soup is a captivating and immersive nature experience designed specifically for children 1st – 5th grade. This 2-hour experience will be held on Saturday, January 27 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Hessel School House. This event combines hands-on activities and sensory exploration to ignite student’s curiosity about the natural world. Starting with the creation of a plaster tracks from rubber molds. We then engage their sense of touch and observation using animal pelts. Then we delve into the fascinating world of wildlife ‘imprinting’ by exploring various scents and learning how animals rely on their sense of smell. With Nature Soup, children can dive deep into the wonders of nature, fostering a love and appreciation for the environment around them.
This class will be taught by Maureen Stine, owner and educator of Naturology. To learn more about this organization, visit https://natureology.me.
Appropriate Ages: 1st – 5th grade students
Class Size: min. 4 / max. 16
Class Fee: $15 per student
REGISTER ONLINE or call 906-484-1333 to register and pay by phone.

Snowy Owl Month at Hessel School House
2024-02-02 09:00 - 23:30, 2024-02-03 00:00 - 23:30, 2024-02-04 00:00 - 17:00
Come experience the magic of snowy owls during the month of February
Kick-off Weekend – February 2-4, 2024

Why are we celebrating Snowy Owls (and other winter birds)?
Every year, the National Audubon Society, an organization with the goal of protecting birds and their habitats, takes a survey and bird count of every major region in the state. Over the years, the count found that more snowy owls come to Rudyard and the surrounding area of the Eastern Upper Peninsula more than any other place in the state, and more than most other places throughout the country. Now that’s reason to celebrate!
What is the Snowy Owl Festival?
The Snowy Owl Festival is a month-long celebration that provides a unique opportunity for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and the local community to come together and witness the awe-inspiring presence of these magnificent birds. The kick-off weekend, February 2 – 4, 2024 will be filled with various activities and events organized to educate and engage participants. From guided birdwatching tours led by experienced owl watchers, to educational workshops and LIVE owl presentations, attendees have the chance to learn more about the snowy owl’s habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. Additionally, the celebration showcases the artistic side of snowy owls through art classes for all ages that will showcase the unique beauty and cultural significance of these creatures.
Complete information about each event and registration details can be found below. All events require pre-registration and payment online or by calling 906-484-1333.

Financial support for this event and its many educational opportunities is made possible by the follow organizations.
THANK YOU for your support!

CANCELLED - Snowy Owl Painting (Elementary Art)
2024-02-10 10:00 - 12:00
Come join us for a fun-filled morning of painting a snowy owl. Whether your child is an aspiring artist or just loves art and learning, this event is perfect for them. During this event, children ages 6 – 11 years old will have the opportunity to explore their artistic talents and learn the basics of acrylic painting. Cheryl Gordon will guide them through various techniques and help them create their own masterpiece to take home.
$20 per student includes instruction and all materials. Space is limited, pre-registration is required.
Due to illness, this class has been cancelled.

CANCELLED - Create a Beaded Owl
2024-02-17 13:00 - 15:00
Bring a friend to create your very own beaded owl! Our instructor, Marissa Wissner, will guide you in the process of choosing colors and beading them into a beautiful owl that you can proudly display on your backpack, use as a key chain, or gift to a friend! All materials are provided and no experience is necessary! This class is for youth ages 7 & up. Pre-registration is required to attend. Class fee is $20 per student.

CANCELLED - Whoooo Knew? Family Nature Exploration
2024-02-24 10:00 - 12:00
Whooo knew owls were so fascinating? We did! Come learn about owls during this science based, hands-on interactive, educational experience. Examine an owl’s wings and feathers up close to understand how these large birds can soar almost silently through the air. Dig into an owl pellet for a “hands-on” study on what an owl eats. Experience owl vision with by making your own pair of owl eyes. The class concludes with an owl art project to take home. This family friendly event is $5.00 per person. Space is limited and typically sells out, so register early to avoid disappointment.
Due to a lack of participants, this class has been cancelled.
