Community Calendar

Join artist Matthew Grimmer to discover the world of oil painting in this engaging 6-week course! Whether you're completely new to painting or looking to explore a new medium, this class will guide you through the fundamentals of oil painting in a fun and supportive environment. You'll first explore how to utilize the tools and materials safely, learn essential techniques, including color mixing and brushwork, as well as composition and creating depth, while working towards an academic style still-life. All levels of experience are welcome.

This 6-week course will be held from 5:30-7:30 pm on Tuesdays, November 11-December 16, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: 16 and up

COOKING WITH SHARI SMITH & TIMMI BOXEY

Healthy Food Infusions: Using Foods that Heal
Tuesday, December 16 / 6:30 - 8:30 pm / $45

Learn how to cook with anti-inflammatory, gut-friendly, and immune-supporting ingredients without sacrificing flavor. This class explores herbs, spices, and whole foods that support wellness in simple, delicious ways.

In Class We’ll Make:
Golden Turmeric Carrot Broth
Lemon Ginger Vinaigrette, Kale + Quinoa Salad
Citrus Garlic Roasted Chicken
Infused Herbal Tea Tasting

Shari Smith, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, is a celebrated chef who owned and operated Shari’s at the Willard Hilton. Timmi, Shari’s daughter, grew up surrounded by her mother’s passion for food, art, and community.

Together, they continue to serve the local area with delicious, high-quality cuisine while inspiring others through their shared love of cooking. Their classes focus not only on the joy of creating meals but also on the healing properties of food. Class size limited. Preregistration required. Ages 16+

What's included
All ingredients will be provided for recipes.

Toddlers (and parents!) are invited to join us for Wee Wednesdays! Wee Wednesdays is a bi-monthly program held from 10 to 11 am on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. During each session, wee ones will develop skills in art, reading, critical thinking, and tactile exploration. Each session will be a new project created on-site for your little ones to take home and enjoy!

The program starts at 10 am, Wednesday, December 17, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Join instructor Tanya Ehrsam for an afternoon of instructional quilting. Following the pattern “Petoskey Snowflakes”, students will learn how to cut and piece their table runner top, layer batting, backing, and finish at home by quilting. You will create a functional piece of art that can be used any time of year, depending on the color scheme. You will be provided a supply list with the yardage needed of cotton fabric so the project can be suited to your color preference.

This workshop will be held from 1-5 pm, Wednesday, December 17, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway, Mt. Pleasant, MI.

Students should bring their selected fabric, pre-cut, and their own sewing machine. If you do not have a machine, Art Reach will provide one. Students should have some prior machine sewing experience.

Recommended age: 16 and up

Please note: An active membership is not required to register. Active members receive a 15% discount on classes.

Whimsical Watercolors is a series for young artists to enjoy the charm and freedom of watercolors. Each month, students will be guided step-by-step in creating their version of fun and playful images. Classes are on the third Thursday of each month. This December session, we will explore a series of holiday-inspired themes on a small scale, perfect for cards and gift giving.

The class will be held from 5:30-7 pm on Thursday, December 18, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway, Mt. Pleasant, MI.

Recommended age: 6 and up

Please note: An active membership is not required to register. Active members receive a 15% discount on classes.

Brews & Brushes is the perfect way to unwind, get creative, and enjoy a fun evening out. This monthly acrylic painting class is led by Brenda O’Brien, who provides step-by-step instructions to help you create a beautiful 16x20 masterpiece, no matter your skill level. Bring your favorite beverage, invite a friend, and let your imagination flow! We provide all the supplies you need—just come ready to paint and leave with a finished work of art. Brews & Brushes is a great way to explore your artistic side in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

This class will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 pm Thursday, December 18, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended for adults 21+

Please note: An active membership is not required to register. Active members receive a 15% discount on classes.

Looking for something handmade for the holidays? Join instructor Kim Bigard for a seasonal experience in creating handcrafted soy jar candles and cold process soapmaking. Selecting from an assortment of seasonal, floral, or food-forward scents, participants can match their creations to their individual preferences. Students will leave with a 24oz soy candle and a 1 lb. batch of vegan cold process soap. This is perfect for a fun afternoon out with friends or family, or to create special handmade gifts for loved ones.

This workshop will be held from 11 am-1 pm, Saturday, December 20, in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: 13 and up

Note: Soapmaking utilizes lye, so long sleeves and closed-toe shoes should be worn. Gloves and eye protection will be provided.

Please note: An active membership is not required to register. Active members receive a 15% discount on classes.

Unwind with an evening of watercolor painting led by Cheryl Meyer! Bring your favorite wine, a friend, and your creativity for this relaxing Saturday workshop. Participants will learn watercolor techniques while painting a unique still-life composition. All instruction and art supplies are provided, making it the perfect opportunity to embrace your creativity.

Wine & Watercolors will be held 6-8:30 pm, Saturday, December 20 in the Idonea Hersee Classroom at Art Reach, 111 E Broadway in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended age: Adults 21+

Please note: An active membership is not required to register. Active members receive a 15% discount on classes.

Women’s Empowerment Summit
February 21, 2026 • 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Treetops Resort • Gaylord, Michigan
Tickets: $140

Show up curious, leave unstoppable. The Women’s Empowerment Summit is a full-day, in-person experience designed to spark inspiration, build confidence, and strengthen community. Hosted at the beautiful Treetops Resort, attendees will enjoy breakfast, lunch, connection with local women, and a dynamic lineup of empowering sessions.

Throughout the day, we’ll explore eight core empowerment lenses—Lifelong Learning, Emotional Intelligence, Belonging, Banking & Credit Building, Service, Safety, Advocacy, and Women’s Health—through engaging activities, interactive discussions, and guided reflection. The event begins with a heartfelt panel featuring local women leaders who share authentic stories and real-world wisdom.

Each participant will receive a beautifully designed companion workbook to continue personal growth long after the event.

If you’re seeking clarity, confidence, or a renewed sense of purpose, this summit is your invitation to learn, connect, and grow. Join us for a day of meaningful conversation, practical tools, and powerful community energy.

WORLD MIGRATORY BIRD DAY
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Three ways to mark the day...

8:30 am Join us on a Guided Bird Walk at Tawas Point
Park. We will meet at the Feeding Station near the
lighthouse.

Tawas Point in Michigan is a premier birding destination, especially in May during the spring migration when many species stop to rest and refuel along the shoreline. It is known as an Important Bird Area due to its location, making it a hot spot for viewing a variety of migrating birds, including songbirds, raptors, and shorebirds. Visitors can also find birding hotspots in the surrounding areas, such as Tuttle Marsh, Iargo Springs, and Lumberman's Monument.

11 am Join us for one or two presentations at the
Tawas Senior Center at 312 Newman St. East Tawas
• 11 am, Nick Theisen, from Huron Pines will present "Piping
Plover Recovery in 2025". Learn what is happening in
your community and how you can help with the
recovery efforts.
• 12 pm, Pam Carter, from the AuSable Valley Audubon will present "Making your Home Safe for our Feathered Neighbors"

2-4 pm Join us at Riverbank Park (301 N. Lake St. Oscoda, Michigan)
For an invasive species pull led by Russ Williams from the Conservation District. Bring gloves and clippers. ausablevalleyaudubon.orq