Creative Coast Podcast: Episode 5 | Spreading The Word

The couple who became the beating heart of northern Michigan’s budding literary community. This episode features writer and National Writers Series (NWS) Co-Founder Doug Stanton and NWS Co-Founder and Executive Director, Anne Stanton.

1st Place – Pandemic Percussion

by Athena Gillespie, 06/30/2020, Traverse City, MI

High School 9-12 Category


As I lay in bed, the natural light from my window slowly dwindling, I hear them. A cacophony of drums, maracas, pots, pans, and more. I glance at the clock. 8:00 PM on the dot. I wasn’t expecting a tradition that started in March to last all the way to May, but it was something I had adjusted to and learned to appreciate. Every night, my neighbors stood on their porches and banged on drums, etc. for one full minute. No less, and (usually) no more . . .

King of Beaver Island

It is possible to make the argument that James Strang is the most interesting person who ever lived in northern Lower Michigan.

Author Next Door: Jenn Gregory

Jenn Gregory Writes to Inspire Graduates During the Pandemic by Erin Evans On the night of March 31, one month after Michigan schools shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic, Jenn Gregory could not sleep. Worry for those who were graduating this year—including her daughter—were keeping her up. Around midnight, Gregory got up and looked […]

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