February 2026 Events

Grades 5-12 Acrylic Paint Pouring Saturday, February 21st from 10 am - noon 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.

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!

Saturday, February 28, 2026 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Join us for a special afternoon with author Julie Buchholtz as she reads from her second book and shares the story behind its creation. Through gentle, lyrical storytelling, Mama sings to her child of mino-bimaadiziwin—living in harmony with nature—and of following the teachings of the Seven Grandfathers. As mother and child journey through life together, they walk in the footsteps of the mothers and grandmothers who came before them, honoring tradition, love, and connection across generations. Following the reading, Julie will be available for a book signing, and copies of the book will be available for purchase. This event is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required for planning purposes. Come enjoy a meaningful, family-friendly hour of storytelling, reflection, and community with this heartfelt celebration of heritage and wisdom. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Aanii. Boozhoo. Hello. Ishpiming Migizi Kwe Nidizhinikaaz I am Julie Buchholtz or High Flying Eagle Woman. Gnoozhekaaning Nindonjibaa I come from the Place of the Pike. Migizi Nidoodehm I am Eagle clan. I am fortunate to live along the shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I feel the most grounded when I am immersed in nature, especially when I stand on the earth where my ancestors walked before me. I am a proud member of the Bay Mills Tribe of Chippewa Indians. My inaugural book, Who Am I, was published by Sleeping Bear Press/Cherry Lake Publishing and selected as a 2021 Own Voices/Own Stories Winner. Who Am I took me on a journey of self discovery, a coming home of sorts to my native roots. It is about connection to one another and to Mother Earth. Little brown-skinned girl asks her mama a question that we often ask ourselves, “Who am I?” Mama pulls her girl close and explains how she is connected to Mother Earth including the plants, the organisms, and the animals that inhabit Mother Earth. In the end, the little brown-skinned girl understands her significance and that she isn’t so little after all. My second book, Mama’s Song serves as a prequel to Who Am I and led me further down the path of embracing my native heritage. It tells the story of the birth of the little brown-skinned baby. Mama has never felt such love before and thanks the Creator for such a gift. Mama’s Song is all about mama’s wish for her daughter to live the “good life” or mino bimaadiziwin. Readers are introduced to the Seven Grandfather Teachings of Wisdom, Love, Respect, Courage, Honesty, Humility, and Truth.

On February 28th, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of stained glass and create a one-of-a-kind heart design. Join artist Connie Thompson at the historic Hessel School House for a hands-on stained glass workshop where you’ll learn the art of crafting a stunning heart-shaped masterpiece. Whether you’re picking up a glass cutter for the first time or you're an experienced artisan, this workshop is designed for all skill levels. You’ll be guided through each step of the process—cutting, shaping, and assembling your glass pieces to bring your design to life. By the end of the session, you'll walk away with a gorgeous stained glass heart that’s perfect to keep for yourself or give as a heartfelt gift. With a small class size of just 6 students, you'll enjoy personalized instruction and plenty of one-on-one time with Connie, ensuring you feel confident and inspired throughout the workshop. All materials are provided, so just bring your creativity and enthusiasm!