Events of Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Michigan Poet Laureate Dr. Melba Joyce Boyd – Author Visit. 12 PM to 2 PM.  Meet 2026 Michigan Poet Laureate Dr. Melba Joyce Boyd as she joins us for a reading of her works. About the Poet: Dr. Boyd is a recently retired distinguished professor in African American Studies at Wayne State University and is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Michigan in the Department of Afroamerican and African Studies. Her poetry, essays, and creative nonfiction have appeared in anthologies, academic journals, cultural periodicals, and newspapers in the United States and Europe. The Kresge Foundation honored her as the 2023 Kresge Eminent Artist. She has a Doctor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in English from Western Michigan University. Carnegie Library, Downtown Jackson.

National Civics Bee:  Jackson County Competition.  5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.  Calling All Young Civic Leaders in Jackson County Michigan!  The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host the National Civics Bee Michigan Statewide Finals at the White Auditorium at Spring Arbor University! This exciting nonpartisan competition gives 6th–8th graders the chance to show off their civics knowledge, share ideas to improve their communities and win cash prizes. Top finalists will earn a trip to Washington DC to compete in the National Civics Bee National Championship in Fall 2026! Why civics? We believe informed active citizens make for a strong country economy and workforce and this Bee is all about celebrating civic pride and knowledge across Michigan. White Auditorium, Spring Arbor University.  Spread the word and help Michigan’s next generation of civic leaders shine!

Jackson County Student Art Show.  Join us for the 11th Annual Jackson County Student Art Show! This inspiring showcase features artwork from over 20 schools, with students in grades K–12 displaying their incredible creativity. The show spans the entirety of the mall, so be sure to take a stroll and soak it all in. We’ll also have light entertainment and refreshments on select days, making it the perfect time to come out, explore, and support local students and their beautiful art.  During mall hours at Jackson Crossing Mall.

WITL Night Out at The Honky Tonk.  We’re teaming up with 100.7 WITL to bring you a FREE night of live country music featuring a rising Nashville artist and one of Michigan’s own. ATLUS, A true up-and-comer out of Nashville with a story to back it up. From truck driver to sharing stages with major acts, Atlus is bringing raw, real country songwriting and a sound that’s already climbing the charts. CHAD FLORES BAND,  “Michigan Country” at its finest. Southern rock energy mixed with Midwest storytelling, closing the night with a full band show that hits hard and keeps the party rolling.  No Cover! Doors at 6 PM. Music starts at 7:30 PM (Acoustic set from Atlus).  The Honky Tonk at Oak + Iron, 151 West Michigan Avenue, Downtown Jackson.