Community-Driven Scavenger Hunt Introduces Midland’s Newest Residents to Downtown
The community is invited to welcome Midland’s newest residents as Northwood University students head downtown Aug. 22 for this year’s Go MAD March. This community-driven scavenger hunt introduces next-generation entrepreneurs to the small businesses that help Midland’s downtown district thrive.
“From tech tools at the Northwood Idea Center to handcrafted goods and culinary creativity, students will explore firsthand how local entrepreneurs are making a difference — and how they, too, can become part of that impact,” explained Patrick McElgunn, director of the Northwood University Idea Center in downtown Midland. “As such, the Go MAD March is a very fitting way to welcome the newest class at America’s Free Enterprise University.”
A phrase coined by the late Northwood Football Coach Pat Riepma, Go MAD encourages students to “Go Make A Difference.” The Go MAD March is held at the start of each Northwood academic year to help familiarize Midland’s newest residents with the downtown area.
Set to take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 22, this year’s event will feature a scavenger hunt through the heart of downtown Midland, spanning businesses on Gordon, Ashman, McDonald, Rodd, Townsend, Conkright, Main, and Ann streets.
“Northwood University is proud to call Midland home, and the Go MAD March helps our newest Timberwolves feel at home, too,” stated Dean of Student Affairs Andy Cripe. “But the Go MAD March is about more than orientation — it’s a hands-on introduction to the entrepreneurial spirit of Midland — a spirit that mirrors the free-market values we champion at Northwood.”
Students will visit several local businesses to collect stamps in a Go MAD March passport that will be used in a raffle for prizes during a welcome address by Midland Mayor Maureen Donker at 7:45 p.m. on the lawn behind The H Hotel.
Among the featured Go MAD March destinations is the Northwood Idea Center, which will hand out a limited-edition Northwood University 3D-printed keychain.
“We also will be giving tours to highlight this space and the equipment that is available here, including our 3D printer, podcast studio, laser engraver, and photography studio,” McElgunn added.
Other stops on this year’s Go MAD March include Matchbox Tattoo, Joyful Tantrum, Serendipity Road, Bookmarks, Ace Hardware & Sports, FILL, Sassy & Chic Boutique, Proper Taco, Coyer Candle Co., Pizza Sam’s, Molasses Smokehouse & Bar, Peel ‘n Pare, Heather ‘n Holly, Craft Juice Company, Little Forks Outfitters, Aviator Cookie Company, Crepes Et Amis, Iron Dame, Modern Explorers, Brinstar, Bella Papilio, Health Nut, Gratzi Midland, Pizza Baker, and Café Zinc, ONe18 and Oxygen, located inside The H Hotel — mid-Michigan’s only AAA 4-Diamond hotel.
“This is a substantial increase in local business participation from prior years, and we are grateful to our local entrepreneurs, the City of Midland, Midland Business Alliance, and other entities who are helping welcome new and returning Timberwolves,” Cripe noted.
Virtual Tour Features Go MAD March Interactive Map
Northwood University created a virtual tour featuring this interactive map for those who want to follow along with this year’s Go MAD March. To start the tour, click on the “Tours” tab and select the “GO MAD March” option in the menu.
Signs Available for Residents to Welcome Students to Midland
Members of the community who would like to request a complimentary yard sign welcoming students to Midland can do so using this online form. Requested signs will be available at the Church Family Administration Building reception desk between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Aug. 5-22 (or while supplies last). Signs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
