CANCELLED - Bangle Bracelet Weaving
2025-11-15 13:00 - 16:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Join us at Hessel School House for a creative and hands-on art class where you’ll learn to weave a beautiful bangle-style bracelet using small looms. Under the guidance of instructor Cheryl Gordon, participants will combine yarn, wire, and beads to craft their own unique wearable art. No experience necessary—just bring your creativity! Teens and Adults Welcome!
Class Fee: $30 per person.

The American Revolution Expereince Traveling Exhibit
2025-12-14 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-15 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-16 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-17 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-18 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-19 10:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
The Bawating Le Saut De Sainte Marie Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the American Battlefield Trust are excited to feature the American Revolution Experience at the Hessel School House from December 14 – 19, 2025.
The innovative pop-up exhibition includes display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology and unique artifacts and primary accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation.
The exhibit is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Admission: Free, open to the public.

For more information about the exhibit, contact:

Tammy Cruickshank
Bawating-Le Saut De Sainte Marie, DAR
bc026@centurytel.net
(906) 322-6586

American Battlefield Trust, dedicated to preserving our nation’s hallowed battlegrounds. (PRNewsfoto/American Battlefield Trust)

CANCELLED - YOUTH: Heart Nail Art
2026-01-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Heart Nail Art for Grades 5-12
Saturday, January 10, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Need an activity for a cold winter’s day? Come and learn how to make nail art! Artist Marissa Wissner will help guide you through the process of creating a unique work of art using nails and string! All materials and instruction provided, so sign up and bring a friend!

Examples of projects:

Telling the Hard Stuff: A Confessional Poetry Workshop with Ellen Lord
2026-01-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Telling the Hard Stuff: A Confessional Poetry Workshop with Ellen Lord

Saturday, January 17, 2026
1:00 -3:00 PM

Confessional poetry asks us to speak the truths we often keep hidden. In this two‑hour workshop, we’ll explore how vulnerability becomes art, how the “hard stuff” transforms into language that resonates, and how craft supports courage. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space to write the poems that demand to be written. This class includes an autographed copy of Ellen Lord’s latest book VIGIL.

Whether you write poems on the page or songs for the stage, this workshop welcomes artists who turn lived experience into works of written art. Poets and songwriters alike will find tools for shaping raw emotion into work that connects and endures.

Class Fee: $40.00. Includes a signed copy of Ellen Lord’s latest book VIGIL.

To Register: Call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:
Ellen Lord began writing as a kid, first stirred to poetry by Edgar Allen Poe’s raven and various morbid nursery rhymes. She is inspired by forays in nature, along with feasts and foibles of the human condition. She was raised in the wilds of the Upper Peninsula and often returns to her ancestral home. She is a behavioral health therapist, specializing in addiction and trauma.

Scholarship discounts are available. Call 906-484-1333 for details if finances are an impeding you from attending this workshop. A limited number of discount tickets are available for teens and low income participants.

Snowy Owl Festival
2026-02-06 08:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-07 08:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-08 08:00 - 20:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
3rd Annual Snowy Owl Festival
Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center
NOTE: Many events have sold out already. To be added to a wait list, please call 906-484-1333.
February 6 – 8, 2026
The Snowy Owl Festival is an annual celebration dedicated to the snowy owl and its winter migration to the Eastern Upper Peninsula. It brings together wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and families to learn about and appreciate the beauty of these remarkable birds. The festival features an educational lecture, guided birdwatching tours, and live owl presentations, making it a must attend event for those passionate about nature and wildlife.

TICKETS GO ON SALE NOVEMBER 7, 2025

Friday, February 6, 2026

Early Bird Snowy Owl Birdwatching Tour (Carpool)
Friday, February 6 • 1:00 – 4:00 PM

Kick off the Snowy Owl Festival with an exclusive early-bird bird-watching adventure! Join us for an afternoon carpool tour through prime winter habitat as we search for snowy owls and other seasonal raptors. This guided outing offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy quiet winter landscapes, learn from experienced birders, and spot these majestic Arctic visitors before the festival’s keynote presentation and evening celebration.
To reduce traffic on winter roads and minimize disturbance to wildlife, space is limited by vehicle count. Carpooling is highly encouraged, and advance registration is required to secure your spot. Dress warmly, bring binoculars or a spotting scope if you have them, and get ready for an unforgettable start to the festival weekend! $40 per person.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

Insights on Owl Research with
Friends of Whitefish Point
5:00 – 7:00 PM
Join Chris Neri and Nova Mackentley, renowned wildlife photographers and field biologists, for an engaging presentation. With nearly 20 years of experience banding migrating owls, they will share captivating stories and valuable insights into the trends of snowy owls in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. You won’t want to miss this opening night presentation!
$10.00 per person. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

Saturday, February 7, 2026
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour – 2 sessions available!
8:00 AM – Noon
OR
1:00 – 5:00 PM

Join us for a guided birding adventure through the stunning winter landscapes of Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula! This special tour by bus offers a rare opportunity to search for the iconic Snowy Owl along with a variety of other winter-loving species that call this region home.
Led by avid birder and wildlife photographer Joe Kwasniewski, participants will travel by bus to several prime birding hotspots. Joe will share expert insights into winter bird behavior, habitat, and identification—while helping you spot and photograph these majestic Arctic visitors and their feathered neighbors.
With a small group size of only 24 participants, this immersive experience ensures personal attention, fantastic viewing opportunities, and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere for both beginners and seasoned birders.
Bundle up, bring your binoculars and camera, and get ready for a magical winter birding outing you won’t soon forget!
Tour Includes: Transportation by school bus, guided instruction, and unforgettable winter wildlife experiences.
Secure your spot for just $40 per person. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

LIVE Owl Presentation – 2 presentations available!
10:00 – 11:30 AM OR 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Are you ready to soar into a world of wonder? We’re thrilled to invite you to a captivating Live Owl Presentation hosted by Wildlife Recovery Association! This is a fantastic opportunity for all ages to meet live owls up close and learn about these fascinating birds and their vital role in our ecosystem. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious child, or simply looking for a unique weekend activity, this event promises to be educational and fun! Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this chance to experience the magic of owls firsthand. $10.00 per person.

Due to popularity last year, this presentation is offered twice on Saturday – 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

NEW EVENT!
Paint n’ Sip: Snowy Owl
Saturday, February 7 • 5:00-7:00 pm
Come and take part in the Snowy Owl Festival’s Paint n’ Sip! Transform your black canvas into the majestic snowy owl with white paint and simple techniques! Karen Mazzoline will provide the materials and instruction, so bring a friend and come paint with us!

Class Fee: $40.00 per person, all materials included.

To register, call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

Photo by Sue Bakkila
NEW EVENT!
Solar Lantern Lit Hike through the Derby Preserve
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
1308 West Club Road, Cedarville, MI 49719

Sponsored by Woods & Waters and Little Traverse Conservancy

Step into the quiet magic of winter with a self-paced, solar-lit hike through the 1.5 mile serene trails of the William B. Derby Preserve. As part of the Snowy Owl Festival, this nighttime walk invites you to experience the preserve in a way few ever do—beneath the gentle glow of solar lights, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the winter woods.
While spotting a snowy owl is unlikely, the evening may bring the hoots and calls of other local owl species echoing through the trees. Move at your own pace, take in the crisp air, and enjoy the unique beauty of Cedarville’s natural landscape after dark.
Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil winter adventure. Dress warmly, bring a flashlight if you wish, and prepare for a memorable night on the trail.
No registration required—just join us and enjoy the glow!

Sunday, February 8, 2026
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join us for an exhilarating Snowy Owl and Winter Birdwatching Tour, where you’ll embark on a guided adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastern Upper Peninsula! Under the expert guidance of avid birdwatcher and wildlife photographer Joe Kwasniewski, you will carpool to various prime birding locations, to view the elusive snowy owl and other enchanting winter birds that inhabit this beautiful region. Experience the thrill of spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat as you learn about their behaviors and habitats from Joe, who will share his wealth of knowledge and passion for birdwatching. This tour is limited to minimize roadside traffic and provide an intimate and personal experience, allowing for plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photographs. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with nature and fellow bird enthusiasts! Secure your spot for just $40 per person and get ready for an unforgettable morning of winter birdwatching. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

Visiting the area?
Check out the Les Cheneaux Area Chamber of Commerce website for lodging and dining information.
https://lescheneaux.net/lodging

Be sure to check out these Night Owl Specials at local restaurants and bars
in the Les Cheneaux area while enjoying the Snowy Owl Festival!

Thank you to our event sponsors:

Solar Lantern Lit Hike through the Derby Preserve
2026-02-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Derby Preserve, Cedarville, mi, 1308 West Club Road, Cedarville, MI, 49719, United States
Solar Lantern Lit Hike through the Derby Preserve
Saturday, February 7, 2025
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM1308 West Club Road, Cedarville, MI 49719
Step into the quiet magic of winter with a self-paced, solar-lit hike through the 1.5 mile serene trails of the William B. Derby Preserve. As part of the Snowy Owl Festival, this nighttime walk invites you to experience the preserve in a way few ever do—beneath the gentle glow of solar lights, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the winter woods.

While spotting a snowy owl is unlikely, the evening may bring the hoots and calls of other local owl species echoing through the trees. Move at your own pace, take in the crisp air, and enjoy the unique beauty of Cedarville’s natural landscape after dark.

Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil winter adventure. Dress warmly, bring a flashlight if you wish, and prepare for a memorable night on the trail.

No registration required—just join us and enjoy the glow!

Sponsored by Woods & Waters and Little Traverse Conservancy

CANCELLED - Acrylic Paint Pouring
2026-02-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Acrylic Paint Pouring
Saturday, February 21, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Want to learn a cool painting technique? Spend the morning with artist Karen Mazzoline learning the art of paint pouring! Using a special kind of acrylic paint, create beautiful abstract works by manipulating the paint on canvas!
Class Fee: $25.00, includes all materials.
Youth Ages: 5th – 12th grades
Due to lack of registrations, this class has been cancelled.

Wire Wrapping
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Wire Wrapping
Saturday, February 21, 2026
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Learn the Art of wire wrapping at Hessel School House! Using natural elements, discover how to use various wrapping techniques with wire! Artist Marissa Wissner will guide you through the wrapping process!

To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=25898&action=ticket&action_ticket=47117

CANCELLED - YOUTH: Drawing Faces
2026-03-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
March 7 • 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
If you ever wondered how to draw realistic faces, we have a class for you! Learn the process of portrait drawing using simple techniques. Artist Karen Mazzoline will provide guided instruction and many drawing mediums for you to choose from!
Class Fee: $25.00 per person
Ages 5th – 12th Grade
To register, call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

CANCELLED - Fabric Flowers
2026-03-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
March 7 • 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Bring the beauty of flowers into your home with fabric! Artist Marissa Wissner will guide you through the process of creating your own fabric flowers! Using colorful fabric, thread, and embellishments, learn how to choose and cut patterns, sew stitching techniques, and apply materials to your work. Everything for this class will be provided, so bring your enthusiasm for learning and creating! Enjoy your afternoon experience even more by bringing a friend!
Class Fee: $40/person
To register, call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

CANCELLED - Jam Session
2026-03-17 14:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
🎶 Jam Sessions at Hessel School House! 🎶
We’re excited to announce a brand-new monthly event at the Hessel School House — and you’re invited!
Starting this month we’ll be hosting Jam Sessions once a month, offering an easygoing afternoon of live music-making in a welcoming, historic setting.
🎸 Bring your favorite instrument
🎤 Sing along
🎼 Play your heart out
👂 Or simply sit back and enjoy the music
Musicians of all levels are welcome — whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years. Not a musician? No problem! Come soak in the sounds and spend a relaxing afternoon with friends and neighbors.
📅 Upcoming Dates:
• March 17, 2026 – CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
• April 14, 2026
• May 19, 2026
All sessions are held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM.
Mark your calendar, invite a friend, and join us for music, community, and good vibes. We can’t wait to see you there!
For additional information, call Tricia Little —(906) 203-7844

Irish Puzzle Palooza
2026-03-21 13:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Saturday, March 21 • 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Irish-Themed Puzzle Palooza Party
A Fundraiser for Hessel School House

Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test at our Irish-Themed Puzzle Palooza Party! Gather your team of four or join others for an afternoon of friendly competition and fun. See who can assemble a jigsaw puzzle the fastest while enjoying light refreshments and beverages.

Tickets: $30 per person (includes entry and assorted snacks)

Sign up with a team of four, or we’ll happily pair you with fellow puzzle enthusiasts. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. This event is usually sold out! Prizes for the top three teams!

Join us for a great time, a chance to win prizes, and to support a wonderful cause. Don’t miss out—Registration closes on March 18!

To Register: Call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

Book Reading & Signing: A Good Animal with Sara Maurer
2026-03-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Book Reading & Signing: A Good Animal with Sara Maurer
Join us for an intimate afternoon with debut novelist Sara Maurer as she reads from and signs copies of her acclaimed first novel, A Good Animal. Set against the emotional landscape of the rural Midwest, the novel explores the complicated bonds between people, place, and the choices that define us—tender, unflinching, and deeply human.
Sara Maurer lives with her family in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Albion College and her master’s from Eastern Michigan University, and she honed her craft through Stanford’s Continuing Studies Novel Writing Certificate program. Her short fiction has appeared in Dunes Review, Hominum Journal, and The Twin Bill. A Good Animal marks her powerful debut as a novelist.
The afternoon will include a reading, a brief conversation about the writing process and the journey to publication, audience Q&A, and a book signing. Whether you’re a longtime reader of literary fiction or discovering Sara’s work for the first time, this event offers a thoughtful and engaging look at a remarkable new voice.
Books will be available for purchase at the event.
This event is FREE and open to the public. Pre-registration is appreciated for planning purposes. To save your seat, call 906-484-1333 or register online.

Jam Session
2026-04-14 14:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
🎶 Jam Sessions at Hessel School House! 🎶
Jam Sessions offer an easygoing afternoon of live music-making in a welcoming, historic setting.
🎸 Bring your favorite instrument
🎤 Sing along
🎼 Play your heart out
👂 Or simply sit back and enjoy the music
Musicians of all levels are welcome — whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years. Not a musician? No problem! Come soak in the sounds and spend a relaxing afternoon with friends and neighbors.
📅 Upcoming Dates:
• April 14, 2026
• May 19, 2026
All sessions are held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM.
Mark your calendar, invite a friend, and join us for music, community, and good vibes. We can’t wait to see you there!
For additional information, call Tricia Little —(906) 203-7844

CANCELLED: YOUTH: Keychain & Ribbon Tassel Making
2026-04-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Keychain and Ribbon Tassel Making
Saturday, April 18, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Youth Grades 5th – 12th
Want to dress up your bags, purses, and backpacks? Come and learn how to create your very own keychain and ribbon tassel! Artist Karen Mazzoline will guide you through the process of designing and constructing your own bag accessory! Choose from a variety of materials such as beads, ribbon, and twine to take home some bag bling! All materials will be provided so bring a friend and enjoy a morning of creating together!
Class Fee: $20.00

CANCELLED: Spring Watercolor Resist Painting
2026-04-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Spring Resist Watercolor Painting
April 18, 2026
1:00 – 3:00 PM
Spend an afternoon with artist Karen Mazzoline as we explore the resist technique in watercolor! Choose from a variety of spring themes and color schemes to create a beautiful work of watercolor art! All materials will be provided! No experience is necessary and exploration is encouraged!
Adult & Teen Class
Class Fee: $40.00

Mommy & Me: Ocean Theme Art Party
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
MOMMY AND ME OCEAN THEME ART PARTY (adult/child/teen)
Saturday, May 9th
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Come to Hessel School House with the special person in your life to create together! With the ocean as our theme, choose colors and materials to make keychains, bracelets, and painted seashells! Join artists Karen Mazzoline and Marissa Wissner as they teach you the art of designing jewelry and art! All materials, light snacks, and fun will be provided! Enjoy a morning making memories! NOTE: Ticket price is for Mom and one child (any age).
$40 per couple (Mother and child of any age).
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=29738

Jam Session
2026-05-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
🎶 Jam Sessions at Hessel School House! 🎶
Enjoy an easygoing afternoon of live music-making in a welcoming, historic setting.
🎸 Bring your favorite instrument
🎤 Sing along
🎼 Play your heart out
👂 Or simply sit back and enjoy the music
Musicians of all levels are welcome — whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years. Not a musician? No problem! Come soak in the sounds and spend a relaxing afternoon with friends and neighbors.
May 19, 2026
2:00 – 4:00 PM
at Hessel School House
Mark your calendar, invite a friend, and join us for music, community, and good vibes. We can’t wait to see you there!
For additional information, call Tricia Little —(906) 203-7844

Aldo Leopold Festival
2026-05-27 - 2026-05-31 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Aldo Leopold Festival
May 27-31, 2026
Les Cheneaux welcomes you to celebrate the legacy of Aldo Leopold — one of America’s most influential naturalists — during our festival, May 27-31, 2026. Activities include paddling excursions, orchid and wildflower tours, birding trips, presentations, and many other nature-based activities. Experience the woods and water that formed Leopold’s early impressions of the natural world as we honor the mark he made on conservation and the environment.
OVER 60 tours, workshops, and lectures to enjoy during the 5-day festival! For a complete list of events, tickets, and more information, visit the festival website at https://aldoleopoldfestival.org/

Jam Session
2026-06-09 14:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Jam Sessions at Hessel School House!
Jam Sessions offer an easygoing afternoon of live music-making in a welcoming, historic setting.

Bring your favorite instrument
Sing along
Play your heart out
Or simply sit back and enjoy the music

Musicians of all levels are welcome — whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years. Not a musician? No problem! Come soak in the sounds and spend a relaxing afternoon with friends and neighbors.
All sessions are held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM.
For additional information, call Tricia Little —(906) 203-7844

Hessel School House Historic Tour
2026-06-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Did you know that the Hessel School House originally served as a school? Founded in 1938, the building housed students from kindergarten through fifth grade. We invite you to join us as we share stories about our alumni, teachers, and community, as well as the various roles the building has served over the years. We will also be serving the legendary Hilda Johnson peanut butter cookies.
While there is no charge to attend, donations are appreciated. Pre-registration is highly encouraged to help with planning of the tours.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at
This tour is offered weekly during the summer.

3rd Annual Writer Symposium
2026-06-13 09:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
3rd Annual Upper Peninsula Writer’s Symposium
Join fellow writers for the 3rd Annual Upper Peninsula Writer’s Symposium on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM EDT in Hessel, Michigan. This inspiring day of creativity, craft, and community features a keynote address by renowned author Karen Dionne, along with your choice of three breakout sessions designed to help writers strengthen their voice, expand their storytelling skills, and gain practical tools for the writing life.
Participants will enjoy interactive workshops on topics such as narrative possibility, poetry, writing style, image and tone, book cover design, and place-based storytelling. The ticket includes the keynote address, three breakout sessions, a catered lunch, and refreshments. Attendees are encouraged to select one session from each breakout block in advance to reserve their preferred workshops.
Whether you write fiction, memoir, poetry, or nonfiction, this symposium offers a welcoming space to learn, connect, and leave with renewed creative energy.
$75 per person. Includes keynote address, 3 of 6 breakout sessions, lunch, and snacks throughout the day to ensure you can focus and stay energized during this highly informative day for writers of all skill levels.
TO REGISTER: Call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=30530

Keynote Session presented by Karen Dionne
Karen Dionne is the USA Today and internationally bestselling author of the acclaimed psychological suspense novel The Marsh King’s Daughter, a gripping thriller that became a major motion picture starring Daisy Ridley and Ben Mendelsohn. Her novels have been translated into more than 25 languages and have earned numerous honors, including the Barry Award for Best Novel and recognition as one of the best books of the year by Library Journal and other national publications.
A longtime advocate for writers, Dionne is also the cofounder of the influential online writing community Backspace and has served on the board of directors for International Thriller Writers. Drawing from her own publishing journey—from aspiring writer to internationally recognized novelist—she inspires writers to persevere, trust the creative process, and continue pursuing their stories with dedication and resilience.
Dionne lives in Michigan, where the wilderness landscapes surrounding her home continue to shape the atmosphere and emotional depth of her fiction.
Choose Three Breakout Sessions
SESSION 1: 10:10 – 11:00 AM (Choose one of these two session)
The Infinite Possibilities of Narrative
Presenter: Joseph D. Haske
This session will include a writing exercise and a philosophical discussion that addresses potential writing strategies. From the inception of a project to the revisionary stages, an author must remain open to every opportunity for improvement. This workshop/discussion will enable writers to consider multiple approaches to plot, subplot, character development, and many other aspects of narrative conception.

Finding Your Voice Through Poetry
Presenter: Ellen Lord
In this interactive workshop, poet Ellen Lord will guide participants through the creative process of writing poetry inspired by themes from Vigil. Attendees will explore imagery, emotion, rhythm, and personal storytelling while learning practical techniques for crafting meaningful poems. In a time when many seek connection, reflection, and healing, poetry offers a powerful way to process experiences and express authentic thoughts and feelings. Whether you are new to poetry or already writing, this session will encourage you to discover and strengthen your unique voice.
___________________
SESSION 2: 11:10 – 12:00 PM (Choose one of these two session)
Break Through the Familiar: New Approaches to Image, Tone, and Subject Matter
Presenter: Daniel Mendoza
Learn how to move beyond clichés and your own predictable writing patterns. Through generative exercises and guided shifts in perspective, workshop participants will explore how to disrupt their common writing habits and approach their poetry with greater flexibility and surprise. Ideal for poets looking for tools to keep their writing dynamic and engaging.

Success Signals for Writers: Know Your Writing-Style Color and Make It Help You Write Better
Presenter: Jule Covert
An interactive presentation to identify your writing and communication style so you can make your time at the keyboard more productive.

Do you get frustrated when can’t write as easily as you’d like?
Does something hold you back, that you can’t put your finger on?
Come learn what your Writing-Style Color is.

When you can identify your style then you can learn how to make it work to your advantage, minimize its weaknesses, and incorporate wearing a different color hat to get you out of the jam jar, resuscitate your muse, and get your writing back on track.
Take the quiz in advance at hjwords.com/resources then come learn about your writing-style color. The Success Signals for Writers quiz will also be available at the symposium.
___________________________
SESSION 3: 12:50 PM – 2:00 PM (Choose one of these two session)
Designing Book Covers That Work: Understanding Your Genre and Avoiding Common Mistakes
Presenter: Daniel Mendoza
Create book cover ideas that communicate with readers and stand out in a crowded marketplace. This workshop will explore common, but fixable design issues. It will also consider the visual language of different genres, helping authors make insightful decisions when designing their book covers. Discover how to balance originality with clarity to ensure your cover connects to your target audience.

Place-Based Writing: Using Landscape and Memory to Shape Story
Presenter: Helen Raica-Klotz
This breakout session explores how landscape, memory, and lived experience can deepen and shape compelling storytelling. Participants will learn techniques for using setting as more than background—transforming place into a living part of narrative and character development. Through guided prompts and discussion, writers will discover how personal memories, sensory details, and emotional connections to place can inspire authentic and powerful writing. Whether crafting fiction, memoir, or poetry, this session will help writers create stories grounded in atmosphere, meaning, and a strong sense of place.

CANCELLED - UPCYCLE: Turn Old T-Shirts Into Summer Decor
2026-06-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Tuesday, June 16 • 10 am-12pm
Don’t know what to do with all those extra t-shirts in your closet? Bring your shirts and join artist Marissa Wissner as she teaches braiding and tying techniques to give new life! Create wreathes, baskets, and wall décor from your tired tees! Marissa will provide all the materials and bling to help you create a unique design!
Class Fee: $40.00
This class was cancelled due to a lack of registrations.
