Northern Express - December 07, 2020

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“We’ve worked so hard ... but we’re not going to save their lives.”

H ear F rom L ocaL N urses oN tHe F roNt L iNes oF coViD NORTHERN MICHIGAN’S WEEKLY • december 07 - december 13, 2020 • Vol. 30 No. 48 Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 1

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imagine Trump not being president and that he would die to support Trump. I understand loyalty to a party, or certain political beliefs, but this Trump fascination goes well beyond that.

To be fair, I admit to admiring certain politicians, but would I die for them? I would for members of my family, or my country for the right reasons, but there is something terribly wrong when so many citizens blindly follow a single leader without question. Especially one who consistently lies and has had more members of his administration indicted than any other president. He seeks to destroy everything from international treaties to our very institutions of government and yet people follow him still. How are so many willing to throw away Democracy in the name of any one person? It is not only wrong, it is frightening!

Tom Speers, Fife Lake

How to Kill Trust in Government Put as little as possible in public notices and minutes of meetings.

Keep the public in the dark.

Make big spending decisions when no one can show up to comment.

Make changes in zoning to benefit developers at the expense of homeowners.

Allow variances for intrusion on waterways or wetlands; and ignore dissent and science.

Ignore written comments when they don’t conform to pre-determined decisions.

Grant Brownfield monies and tax breaks to developers, but not to resident taxpayers.

Use tax money for consultants; not what they were voted for.

Sanction right-wing-extremist organizations that threaten our democracy and maybe our lives.

Put profits above people’s health.

Ignore planning for a future that would utilize less public money and less fossil fuels.

Carry on as if there is no such thing as a climate crisis.

If this is what you wanted, you have succeeded.

Message Received I wonder if Lee Chatfield, our Michigan Speaker of the House, had a chance to borrow Melania Trump’s “I Don’t Care, Do You?” coat during his recent visit to the White House. Even if not, his field trip/job interview/national exposure trip’s message was loud and clear: I don’t care about COVID-19 and the devastation it is wreaking on our citizens.

I don’t care about repeatedly participating in high-risk behaviors I.e. being maskless and in large crowds.

I don’t care about democracy.

I don’t care that Joe Biden was the clear winner in Michigan.

I don’t care about the health care workers who are tired and worn out from caring for so many suffering people.

I don’t care about the example I am setting for children.

Speaker Chatfield does seem to care about cashing his paycheck provided by us taxpayers, despite actively working against our best interests. Instead of taking his fancy trip, Mr. Chatfield should have cared about standing up for our free and fair election and cared enough to work tirelessly to help stem the spread of this horrible virus.

Ann Rogers, Traverse City

Carolyn S. Matzinger, Petoskey

Blind Loyalty As we watch the last vestiges of the Trump Presidency attempt to usurp democracy in the U.S. and undermine the legitimacy of our electoral system, we have to question the commitment to Democracy in this country. Fortunately, his struggles have succeeded in a manner consistent with its evidence: There is none.

Beyond these machinations, we are left with a more difficult challenge. What of those 70 million voters who bought into the Trump message? Our Republican members of Congress have only enabled this behavior by failing to draw a line in the sand.

I was listening to call-in program on an alternative media network recently. One male Trump supporter called in, obviously in tears, and expressed that he couldn’t

Questioning Capitalism The word “socialism” is striking fear among conservatives, and they want it to be a threat to all Americans. What are they talking about? It is more of a threat to become a capitalist country. The media just keeps reporting and using the word, but there needs to be a discussion with conservatives. What are you talking about?

What do you mean? Is that too elitist?

Bob McQuilkin, Frankfort Freedom v. Stupidity Americans tend to regard the individual over the group. Pew Research found that the majority of Americans view freedom to pursue life’s goals without interference from the state is more important than

helping those who are in need. Therefore, many are refusing to make a temporary sacrifice, which benefits the group, by wearing a mask to save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to this self-centeredness of too many Americans, Republican politicians disparage public health officials who state that the wearing of masks saves thousands of lives. The adults in the room are afraid to buck the GOP stranglehold held by Trump, allowing lives to be lost by not having the courage to enact policies that increase mask-wearing. Citizens, after all, tend to follow the lead of their officials.

Half of the country is not getting public health information, reported by health care experts, regarding the necessity of wearing masks to combat COVID. They get their “news” from sources that simply parrot Republican administrations (federal and state), which takes the pressure off these politicians to act in a responsible manner.

We have all encountered those who flout the wearing of masks, daring to be asked to comply in order to protect others from this deadly virus. Their typical response is similar to a petulant child yelling “You’re not the boss of me!”

When will our frightened politicians stop acting like sheep and take measures to get masks universally worn? The restaurants, shops and schools could be safely opened; our medical professionals would not be putting their health/life on the line treating COVID-19 patients — including those “brave” non-maskers.

One’s “freedom” to not wear a mask is trumped by the freedom to not be killed by stupidity.

Jack Lee, Traverse City More Political Parties, Please Amy Kerr Hardin’s Nov. 23 opinion column, “Are You A Fascist?” provides important political education. Many folks don’t realize they are fascists, mostly due to lack of history and civics classes in high school. In our free county, it is OK to be a fascist — as long as you don’t threaten or do harm to others.

Right-wing Republican’s and Libertarians (and some Democrats) should start a party called Republican and Libertarian Fascists. Actually, I think we need a few more political parties.

From right to left, fascists, conservative Republicans, conservative Democrats, progressive Democrats, Working Families Party, Green Party, and so on.

Right-wing Republicans and Libertarians have been pushing for fascism for 40 years, and Donald Trump was the epitome of this decades long endeavor.

Read Kurt Andersen’s book “Evil Geniuses” for illumination.

Why didn’t Mitch McConnell oppose Donald Trump? Because he is a fascist. It’s the only explanation. Many otherwise wellmeaning Libertarians don’t understand that their philosophical leader, Ayn Rand, was basically a fascist. When the totalitarian Russian Bolsheviks took her family stuff away and assassinated her “dear leader,” the Czar of Russia, she was crushed. What she had advocated for was a “benevolent Continued on page 6...

CONTENTS

features An Uncertain Christmas...............................10

Nurses Speak.............................................12 Holiday Entertaining Hot List.........................17 Chef’s (Holiday) Table..................................20 TV of Comfort & Joy....................................26

columns & stuff Top Ten.......................................................5

Spectator/Stephen Tuttle...............................6 Cocktail Creations (sponsored).......................7 Opinion..........................................................8 Weird............................................................9 Advice.....................................................15 Dates........................................................23 Crossword.................................................28 Astrology.....................................................29 Classifieds...............................................30

Northern Express Weekly is published by Eyes Only Media, LLC. Publisher: Luke Haase PO Box 4020 Traverse City, Michigan 49685 Phone: (231) 947-8787 Fax: 947-2425 email: info@northernexpress.com www.northernexpress.com Executive Editor: Lynda Twardowski Wheatley Finance & Distribution Manager: Brian Crouch Sales: Kathleen Johnson, Lisa Gillespie, Kaitlyn Nance, Michele Young, Randy Sills, Todd Norris, Jill Hayes For ad sales in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Boyne & Charlevoix, call (231) 838-6948 Creative Director: Kyra Poehlman Distribution: Dave Anderson, Dave Courtad Kimberly Sills, Randy Sills, Roger Racine Matt Ritter, Gary Twardowski Listings Editor: Jamie Kauffold Reporter: Patrick Sullivan Contributors: Amy Alkon, Rob Brezsny Ross Boissoneau, Jennifer Hodges, Michael Phillips, Steve Tuttle, Anna Faller, Todd VanSickle, Janice Binkert Meg Weichman Copyright 2020, all rights reserved. Distribution: 36,000 copies at 600+ locations weekly. Northern Express Weekly is free of charge, but no person may take more than one copy of each weekly issue without written permission of Northern Express Weekly. Reproduction of all content without permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 3

this week’s

top ten CLIMB ATOP THE BIG MAC PROBED

Police want answers after discovering a daredevil climbed to the top of the Mackinac Bridge and escaped before authorities could catch up with him.

Now state police are searching for whoever it was that committed the act of “felony trespassing.”

“This is not a harmless stunt; it’s inexcusably reckless,” Mackinac Bridge Authority Executive Secretary Kim Nowack said in a press release. “This individual risked not only his own life but also the lives of those crossing the bridge beneath him and would have threatened the safety of emergency personnel and Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) staff had a rescue been needed.”

Authorities believe the thrill-seeker scaled the bridge in order to take some extreme photos, which were later posted to social media.

A press release was issued Dec. 2; officials did not say when they believe the brazen stunt occurred, though they said they are reviewing a November incident when a bridge alarm was triggered. Someone was later spotted walking away from the bridge, but he was gone before police arrived.

The incident has prompted the Michigan Department of Transportation to review its safety and security protocols for the bridge.

a small town christmas on mill lane Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and we suspect his name might be James Gudakunst, the handyman behind “A Small Town Christmas on Mill Lane,” a free holiday light show happening every night until the New Year in Pellston. You can drive the lane (1833 Mill Lane) 6:30pm–9:30pm Mondays through Saturdays — or walk it during those some hours on Sundays, when a bonfire and hot cocoa await at trail’s end. Can’t get there in person? Enjoy a virtual drive on the “Gudakunst Do-All” Facebook page.

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Hey, watch it!

saved by the bell

“I’m so excited” to report that the ultimate ’90s teen sitcom, Saved by the Bell, is back! And before you roll your eyes at yet another TV revival, reunion, reboot, or what have you, we promise you that this continuation of the beloved show not only will delight its grown fans but also happens to be one of the best new sitcoms this year. With serious comedy chops behind it (think 30 Rock writers), the new series is loving, knowing, smart, and seriously funny. Picking up in the present day, as a result of now governor of California Zack Morris’s (Mark Paul Gosselaar) latest round of budget cuts, students from an inner-city school arrive at the hallowed halls of Bayside High. There they encounter Zack’s teenage son, guidance counselor Jessie Spano (Elizabeth Berkeley), and football coach A.C. Slater (Mario Lopez). While the old guard definitely gets in their share of hilarious callbacks, the focus is on the new kids, and the show is brilliantly updated to reflect that. It’s nostalgic but also hilariously self-aware, inclusive, and modern, yet thankfully doesn’t try too hard to be “woke.” As absurd as the original might seem to us now, some things in Bayside High’s sweet universe will never change: Pranks still abound, friendship still comes first, and the kids will always remain true to their school. Streaming on Peacock.

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tastemaker Mama Lu’s Taco Tote

At Traverse City’s ever-pivoting Mama Lu’s, there are Taco Kits, and there are Taco Totes.

The $60 Taco Kit feeds five to seven folks. The Taco Tote theoretically feeds a couple or small family, but if you’ve ever eaten Mama’s tacos or drank her secret-recipe margs, you know this is a lie. Because, really, for only $20 a tote, do you really need to share with anyone else? Is it a crime to ingest, all by yourself, 10 delicious, authentic corn or flour shells (your choice) packed full of seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, tomato, jack cheese, and lime crema?

It is not. But if you feel guilty, simply wash it all down with a ($13) two-serving can of Mamu Lu’s margaritas (hint: Classic is outstanding; Mango is divine) and know that the $1 surcharge added to your check will be matched by Mamu Lu’s and distributed to staff laid off during the shutdown. Guilt officially absolved. See the full carry-out menu at www.mamalustc.com.

Limited menu also available for delivery. Current hours are 3:30pm–8:30pm Tuesday through Saturday. 149 E. Front St., (231) 943-2793

4 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

www.hullsoffrankfort.com 231-352-4642 419 Main St, Frankfort www.hullsoffrankfort.com

6

SAILING STALWART PASSES AWAY

Northern Michigan is mourning the loss of a sailing advocate, boat shop owner and one of the founders of the Little Traverse Conservancy.

Dave Irish passed away Nov. 30 at the age of 83 while at home with family in Harbor Springs.

His family arrived in Harbor Springs by boat when Irish was six years old, and, except for some time in the military, he’s been a resident ever since, raising a family there.

Irish, who served for 25 years on the board of U.S. Sailing, the sport’s national governing body, began sailing and working on boats at a young age through his family’s business.

He went on to found Irish Boat Shop in 1961; the business today has three locations and employs nearly 100 people.

Stuff we love

Doubling the Love In a year when restaurant eating ain’t exactly easy, four northern Michigan restaurants are making it very worth your while so they can make sure Santa stops at every northern Michigan kid’s home.

Until Dec. 18, Alpine Tavern and Eatery and CRAVE Pasta, Pizza and Pub in Gaylord, along with Moose and Stella’s Café and Trout Town Tavern and Eatery in Kalkaska, all operated by Kosch Properties, are selling paper trains for a $5 donation and will match the money, up to $1,000, at each location to boost Toys for Tots campaigns in northern Michigan. “Cash donations will be critical,” Toys for Tots of Northwest Michigan coordinator Maggie Kent said. “This will allow us to buy toys in bulk and drop them off directly to the agencies we serve. We are working hard to make sure all our donors and volunteers stay safe this year. The more we can reduce the handling of the toys, the safer it is for everyone.”

Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy: A Celtic Family Christmas At Home We don’t know about you, but one of our favorite things about pandemic life is the opportunity to peek inside the personal spaces of newscasters and celebrities taping their shows from homes.

This month, you’ve got an opportunity to peek internationally, with Celtic hubs-wife fiddleplaying masters Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy taking the “stage” from their home in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The pair are longtime favorites of City Opera House audiences, having played in the historic Traverse City venue in 2013, 2015, and 2018. For this 2020 virtual performance, again “hosted” by COH, the at-home duo will offer an intimate look at their music and culture, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics. (Note: They have seven children at home, so don’t expect anything scripted.) Even better: You only need to purchase one $20 ticket per household to enjoy the show, which you can watch at 7pm Saturday, Dec. 19 — or any time after, until Dec. 31. Cityoperahouse.org.

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bottoms up Esperance’s Prosecco & Pannettone Full disclosure: We once bought a panettone from a CVS. It was still delicious. But if you want to up your game substantially, consider splurging on this perfect pairing from Charlevoix’s longtime purveyor of some of the most lovely local and international food and wine available in northern Michigan. This classic panettone — a buttery, tender, golden-vanilla dome, dotted with raisins and candied fruit — hails from Abruzzo, Italy. It’s gift-wrapped and partnered with a bottle of Ruggeri Prosecco (Ruggeri, mind you, is one of the five founding fathers of Prosecco, established in 1950 in Santo Stefano), a fresh and utterly elegant wine with intense apple and light flowery aromas and a full fruity finish. Indulge in both for a special holiday dessert for two, and if by some wild chance there’s any panettone left, use it to make French toast in the morning. $75 for the pair under the “Shop” category at www.esperancewine.com.

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 5

letters Continued from page 3

dictator,” where the “smart people” rule the little people. Fascists, come out of the shadows and make your own political party. Let the debate begin.

Steve Smiley, Omena Fascist or Misinformed?

The opinion piece by Amy Kerr Hardin in the Nov. 23 issue [“Are You a Fascist?”] accurately described the traits of fascists.

Donald Trump would very much want to be a fascist dictator, and many of his minions support his efforts.

Fortunately, Trump is so completely incompetent that he is not capable of formulating a strategy beyond a momentary soundbite and too mentally unstable to follow through with anything.

And, yes, some of his followers may indeed be fascists. This is a not uncommon failure of human character. But there cannot be that many sociopaths among us. I think a more accurate explanation is that masses of people are extremely misinformed. Social media, cable news and talk radio feed an endless stream of misinformation, and many do not stop to think whether it is true or not, as long as it is sensational and reinforces their beliefs.

Many factors contribute to the problem: overwhelming amounts of information from multiple sources, social feedback loops, lack of critical-thinking skills, and daily pressures on people’s time. It is incomprehensible that large numbers of our citizens would support the right-wing anti-democratic agenda if they had factual information and understood it.

Bill Ward, Honor Are You Delusional?

Q: Are you OK with abolishing/ defunding or “reimagining” law enforcement”?

Q: Are you OK with a society led by a biased media and journalistic reporting void of objectivity?

Q: Did you condone the rioting that occurred during the summer in the name of

Black Lives Matter, in which buildings and property were burned, looted, or defaced?

Where people were injured or threatened?

Where statues were toppled or defaced?

Q: Do you favor illegal immigration and open borders over the great needs of many of our citizens?

Q: Do you believe our government should confiscate guns from law-abiding citizens?

Q: Do you support and believe making your city a “sanctuary city” will help it prosper and make it a finer and more diverse living environment?

Q: Do you favor abolishing/defunding ICE and border patrol so foreign gangs can improve their grip in our cities, and drugs can move more freely across our borders Q: Are you OK with Google, Facebook, Amazon, etc. censoring a “point of view” because it doesn’t align with theirs?

FINAL QUESTION: Did you cast a 2020 vote for Harris and Biden, knowing all of the above? Like it or not you are a deluded voter.

Obviously, [Amy Kerr Hardin, the opinion writer of “Are You a Fascist?] is deluded, devoid of objectivity, and zombielike from a steady diet of CNN, MSNBC etc.

A wonk for American values. Just the facts!

Wayne Partica, Cadillac Mute Button On I will be glad when the press stops repeating the criminal crazy talk of our disgusting fascist current president.

It seems the press, along with pathetic reality TV, made this popular creep who brags about getting away with murder and does, with no respect for American laws democracy or decency. Further, any moral person that follows this lying criminal is a fake or hypocrite, especially those claiming to know the life of Jesus. I condemn you in his name.

So let’s give Joe a chance and never do I want to hear criticism from the hypocrites on the right who only attack cheat lie steal and get away with murder in their quest for a dictator or absolute power.

Long live democracy law and justice of America. The people have spoken.

Bradford Krull, Traverse City

DISAPPOINTING THE PROGRESSIVES spectator

by Stephen Tuttle President-elect Joe Biden is likely to disappoint the more progressive folks in the Democratic Party. Some are already complaining.

The Sanders/Warren/Ocasio Cortez wing of the party has an agenda: the Green New Deal, single-payer “Medicare for All,” reduced federal funding to local law enforcement, forgiveness of all student debt, free tuition at state universities and community colleges, free pre-K daycare — that was never fully supported by Biden or the majority of Americans. The cost for all of it, which would literally run into the tens of trillions, could only be paid for with significant tax increases on everybody from the middle class up.

The progressives, who make up a minority of the Democratic caucus but have the loudest voices, won't much like any of it. But emerging exit polling and voter interviews tell us how Biden won and down-ballot Democrats did not: Biden's platform played a limited role in the former, but some of the progressive's rhetoric a significant role in the latter.

The presidential election had very little to do with ideology and almost everything to do with Donald Trump. Enough Republicans and independents simply became exhausted

Biden, like every Democrat who has ever run for federal office, wants to close tax loopholes that benefit corporations and the wealthy. He'll be the first to succeed at that if he does.

Biden can partially appease environmentalists by signing back onto the Paris Climate Accords and making promises about carbon neutrality goals and all the rest. How we'll accomplish any of it is a little trickier. He can undo most of President Trump's executive orders relaxing clean air and clean water standards, but he’ll need congressional help passing any legislation moving us away from fossil fuels.

He openly opposed Medicare for All in both the primary and general election, proposing instead an expansion of the Affordable Care Act (aka “Obamacare”), which he helped usher through Congress during the Obama presidency. Expanding Medicaid coverage would be popular in many states and even among some Republicans. But there will not be a single-payer system any time in the near future.

The president-elect not only opposes defunding the police but also proposed a significant increase in federal funds dedicated to local law enforcement agencies. He wants part of that funding increase dedicated to anti-bias and de-escalation training.

He has endorsed a partial debt forgiveness plan for students with federally backed loans and additional scholarship money available for students; but not free tuition.

Biden, like every Democrat who has ever run for federal office, wants to close tax loopholes that benefit corporations and the wealthy. He'll be the first to succeed at that if he does. And he proposed higher income taxes for those making more than $400,000 annually, a figure too low to generate Republican support.

More than anything, Biden is a veteran of the numbers game in Congress. The zeal of any group supporting any agenda is irrelevant unless they can generate 219 votes in the U.S. House and 60 votes in the U.S. Senate.

And Biden knows that, with a thin working majority in the House and likely none in the

6 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

Senate, he'll be lucky just to nibble away at his own agenda.

by Trump's anger, negativity, and flights from reality, so they voted for Biden..

Those feelings did not translate to downballot races, as many Democrats believed they would. The blue wave they were hoping for became more like waves of the blues as they lost seats in the House and likely failed to regain the Senate. (Democrats would have to win both seats in the Georgia run-offs in January. They have a good chance of winning one of those seats but not the other.)

Republicans and Republican-leaning independents did not cross over when voting for anyone but the president. When interviewed post-election, many referenced efforts to defund the police or anything identified with “socialism” or “socialist.”

Even some Democrat candidates who ran in opposition to the entire progressive agenda were successfully branded with those labels.

The Democrat's national Senate and House campaign committees were of little help, focusing solely on defeating Trump at the expense of local economic and social issues.

Candidates who tried running campaigns that avoided piggybacking on the presidential race found their districts overwhelmed with third-party mailing and advertising that focused nowhere else.

This would be a good time for the far left to stop complaining Biden isn't far enough left, temporarily set aside their agenda and calm their rhetoric, and focus on very real shortterm issues that need immediate attention and should supersede ideology. For example, how the feds are going to distribute the COVID-19 vaccines and how the states can store and administer those vaccines. And how they’re going to help revive local small businesses, 100,000 of which have closed in communities across the country.

The president-elect will work with most anyone, including willing Republicans; he is not immune to compromise. We'll see if the same can be said for some members of his own party.

Alon O

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Nutty Twenty 2020 was, by all accounts, nuts. Could it have been worse? Well, 100 years ago Jan. 17, the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution went into effect, establishing the prohibition of alcohol in this country. Had that amendment not been repealed in 1933, our collective sanity during this pandemic might well have been lost. So as we head into 2021, we give thanks to an oftenoverlooked category of essential workers, those who converted from spirits to sanitizer to keep us safe, and then back to spirits again to soothe our nerves: our local distillers and their staff. With this cocktail, we give special thanks to our partners over at Iron Fish Distillery and encourage you to pick up a bottle of their Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Maple Syrup Barrels.

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Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake for 15 seconds. Strain into a martini glass and add three drops of Peychaud’s bitters. Garnish with a sprig of mint and celebrate: 2020 is almost behind us!

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Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 7

RETHINKING THE WORLD COME JANUARY opinion

BY Jack Segal On Dec. 14, each state’s electors will cast their vote, and on Jan. 6, 2021, Congress will name Joe Biden president of the United States. End of story. Over the next weeks, the Biden transition team will develop its first policies aimed at addressing our most urgent crises. There are many — all shaped by actions taken, and not taken, by the outgoing Trump administration.

For Traverse City area news and events, visit TraverseTicker.com

The highest priority is, of course, the COVID-19 pandemic. As of Nov. 30, over 267,000 Americans have died. By Inauguration Day, COVID-19 deaths could reach 392,000, or even go as high as 453,000 deaths if current restrictions (masks, social distancing, capacity limits) are eased. For President Biden, the question will be what action he can take to slow the spread. But more important than any debate about presidential authority is whether the American people, including the U.S. Congress, can muster the courage and empathy needed to work together to win this battle.

The transition to the Biden presidency could offer a turning point, one in which Congress and the new administration could focus on what their predecessors should have already: implementing plans to slow the spread of the virus, support our hospitals and frontline workers, distribute the vaccine without bankrupting our towns and cities, and at the same time, provide a lifeline to our workers and small businesses that are facing economic disaster. There is no “whether” in this list. We must do all these things. It’s not a political game anymore. Lives hang in the balance.

When COVID-19 hit the U.S. back in March, President Trump deflected blame for his administration’s mishandling of the crisis and instead blamed China. (Enter Trump’s “China Virus.”) Can the Biden administration use this disaster as a means to refocus our relationship with China? China, after all, has brought its epidemic under control. Without replicating its Draconian methods, can we learn from what worked there? The global pandemic is one thing we should have collaborated on from day one.

The pandemic has demonstrated that solving global problems requires diplomacy, and president-elect Biden has put U.S. policy in the hands of experienced global professionals like Tony Blinken, his Secretary of Statedesignee; Jake Sullivan, his future National Security Advisor; and foreign-service veteran Linda Thomas-Greenfield, soon to be his U.N. Ambassador. All have decades of experience and know each other and the President-elect well. Their selection clearly signals a change of course from Trump’s “America first” approach.

President Biden has said he will resume cooperation with the WHO and other global organizations that are collaborating on a global approach to the pandemic. But the pandemic is just the first among many pressing demands that the Biden team will face. Perhaps the most dangerous challenge comes from Iran, a country that feels

8 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

under an existential threat from the Trump administration’s “maximum pressure” campaign. Early in his administration, President Biden might face Iranian retaliation for the assassination of Iran’s nuclear weapons developer and that of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Commander last January. But Teheran would be wise to wait to see what Mr. Biden has in mind.

The president-elect has given some indication, saying, “I have no illusions about the challenges the regime in Iran poses to America's security interests … But there is a smart way to be tough on Iran.” Biden, it appears, will seek to rejoin our allies in the Iran nuclear deal, but he will also try to pressure Iran over its violations of that deal, its support of terrorism, and its regional adventurism. A new policy toward Iran will surely meet bipartisan resistance in Congress and outright opposition from Israel and Saudi Arabia.

While juggling the Iran dilemma, future Secretary of State Blinken will also need to reconcile the Trump administration’s pro-Israel actions with the Biden administration’s stated goals of working “to ensure that Palestinians and Israelis enjoy equal measures of freedom, security, prosperity, and democracy … as part of a two-state solution ... .”

That will be a tall order. Biden will not want to start his administration with a clash involving Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Saudi Crown Prince bin Salman.

Blinken will also need to pick up the pieces of Trump’s erratic policies and repair relationships with skeptical foreign governments. One example: Nothing was accomplished by President Trump’s photoop meetings with Kim Jong Un. North Korea is still increasing its nuclear arsenal and has begun to volley threats.

Serious talks are needed — perhaps with the assistance of Kim’s only ally, China, which shares U.S. concerns about Pyongyang’s intentions — another potential avenue for cooperation with Beijing.

Finally, our relationship with Russia. As I’ve written previously, the “New START” strategic arms control agreement is hanging by a thread. The Biden team is already working on those negotiations. But beyond that, Putin’s main goal has always been to weaken Americans’ belief in our own institutions. While it appears that his latest efforts were skillfully thwarted

by U.S. Cyber Command, Putin is keenly aware that, due to President Trump’s own rhetoric, millions of Americans today believe that the 2020 election was “rigged.” Mercifully, on Jan. 20, the Biden presidency begins, and the world will see that our elections were free and fair, and our Constitution has survived.

Jack Segal is a retired senior U.S. and NATO official. He teaches online at Northwest Michigan College and at Norwich University.

Meet the Meat Lover’s Skillet!

Creme de la Weird The Design Museum in London has included a "DIY meal kit" featuring steaks that could be grown from a diner's own human cells among the nominees in its Beazley Designs of the Year exhibit. Developers of the Ouroboros Steak envision that an individual will be able to harvest cells from their own cheek and feed them with serum derived from donated blood that has expired, Dezeen reported. After about three months, the steaks would be fully grown. "People think that eating oneself is cannibalism, which technically this is not," said Grace Knight, one of the designers.

Researcher Orkan Telhan added, "Our design is scientifically and economically feasible but also ironic in many ways," he added.

Inexplicable Officers from Utah's Department of Public Safety were helping the Division of Wildlife Resources count bighorn sheep from a helicopter on Nov. 18 when a shiny object in the desert landscape caught their eye. "Whoa, whoa, whoa, turn around, turn around," one of the biologists shouted, according to pilot Bret Hutchings. KSL reported the crew landed and found a 10- to-12-foot-high silver monolith planted in the ground and tucked into a red-rock cove. After joking about extraterrestrials, the crew decided it looked manmade and took pictures, chalking it up to "some new wave artist ... a big '2001: A Space Odyssey' fan," Hutchings mused.

Collateral Damage Police in Corvallis, Oregon, said Dylan Milota was high on marijuana when he crashed the 2019 Tesla S he was driving at more than 100 mph into a utility pole on Nov. 17, breaking the pole and spraying hundreds of small batteries through the windows of two nearby residences. One landed on a bed, starting a fire in the bedsheets, KMTR reported. A tire from the car struck the second story of a nearby apartment building so forcefully it broke water pipes inside the wall, destroying the bathroom on the other side and causing flooding in the lower level, police said. Citizens were warned not to pick up any stray batteries, which can stay hot for up to 24 hours and release toxic fumes. Milota fled on foot but was quickly apprehended and charged with various offenses.

News You Can Use College student Benjamin LaRose of Millis, Massachusetts, is recovering from third-degree burns he suffered at an outdoor party with friends this fall when someone used hand sanitizer as an accelerant in the fire pit they were gathered around, Boston25 reported. "It was rather sudden how quick it reacted," LaRose said, "very much like napalm," catching his leg and shorts on fire and requiring skin grafts to treat the burns.

LaRose's pediatrician, Dr. Lester Hartman, warned of the dangers of using hand sanitizer and then being exposed to open flames: "Alcohol is very volatile and explosive ... and people that are doing a barbecue or even lighting a cigarette or lighting a candle" need to let the alcohol evaporate first. Or, experts say, use soap and water.

Do not let moose lick your car," say the flashing electronic signs along roads in Jasper (Alberta) National Park, where park spokesman Steve Young told CNN: "(Moose are) obsessed with salt. ... They usually get

it from salt lakes in the park, but now they realized they can also get road salt that splashes onto cars." Officials say if moose become accustomed to licking cars, they'll lose their fear of vehicles, putting the animals in danger. In Jasper, where drivers often stop to get photos of the moose, officials recommend driving away if the animals start to approach.

Awesome!

Josua Hutagalung, 33, was working outside his home in Sumatra in August when he got a surprise delivery: A meteorite crashed through his roof and landed outside. "When I lifted it, the stone was still warm, and I brought it into the house," the coffin-maker told local media. United Press International reported the 4.5-pound meteorite was a rare variety, valued by experts at almost $1.9 million, which attracted American expert Jared Collins, who paid more than $1 million for the rock. "I have also always wanted a daughter," Hutagalung said, "and I hope this is a sign that I will be lucky enough now to have one." He also plans to donate some of the funds to his local church's new building project.

Compelling Explanations French police in Lannion, Brittany, became suspicious when they spotted a man lurking near a parked car at a time when France's COVID-19 lockdown rules required him to be at home on Nov. 20. Upon questioning, the 39-year-old unnamed man produced the legally required "attestation," including his full name, the time he left home and his written-in reason for being out: to "smash a guy's face in." Local police chief Daniel Kerdraon said, "He was trying to fulfill the letter of the law, in his own way," The Guardian reported, "but we told him his reason for going out was not valid." He was fined not only for violating the curfew but also for being drunk in public.

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Bright Idea Matthew Piercey, 44, has been indicted on 31 federal felony counts related to a suspected Ponzi scheme, but when FBI agents tried to arrest him in Redding, California, on Nov. 16, he took off, authorities said. NBC News reported agents followed him to Lake Shasta, where Piercey pulled a $1,200 Yamaha 350LI Seascooter out of his vehicle, then disappeared into the frigid water, spending about 25 minutes "out of sight underwater where law enforcement could only see bubbles," Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hales wrote in court papers. The agents waited him out and arrested him when he resurfaced. Piercey faces up to 20 year in prison if convicted.

The Way the World Works Evidence of election rigging in New Zealand's Bird of the Year competition has set organizers all atwitter, NPR reported.

Officials at Forest & Bird, a conservation organization, noticed that more than 1,500 votes in the annual event had come from one email address on Nov. 9, all in favor of the spotted kiwi. "That is an amazing bird," spokeswoman Laura Keown said, "but ... these votes had to be disallowed, and they've been taken out of the competition."

The disqualification cleared the way for the competition's eventual winner: the kakapo, or moss chicken, a rare nocturnal bird and the world's only flightless parrot.

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 9

By Patrick Sullivan Like small businesses everywhere, shop owners in downtown Petoskey want to see just as many customers this year as they do any other year. They’d just prefer if they didn’t all come at once.

“If they could come in shifts that would be so wonderful,” said Becky Goodman, downtown director for the City of Petoskey.

“That’s what’s hard for the retailers — they love crowds, and now they have to monitor that, and it’s tricky. I have faith that this will be a good season.”

That’s why Petoskey’s downtown district, like that of Traverse City and other small towns, has been busy coming up with strategies to lure holiday shoppers while at the same time discouraging crowds in an attempt to keep people safe. As small businesses deal with the challenges of COVID-19 and a stressed-out workforce, it’s more important than ever to convince consumers to spend holiday dollars locally rather than at big online companies.

AN UNCERTAIN CHRISTMAS Local businesses struggle to adapt amid a COVID-19 surge during the holiday season.

Downtown Traverse City

10 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

EVERYBODY COME, JUST NOT AT ONCE Petoskey’s annual open house, Santa parade, and the ladies shopping night have all been canceled this year, Goodman said.

But for local businesses, the stress wrought by the impact of the novel coronavirus is more complicated than just worry about losing customers to big online stores this holiday season. Now, 10 months into the pandemic, social distancing, and constant mask-wearing are tiresome, she said.

“We had a great summer, and we had a really good, strong fall, but I think that the merchants are people who love to greet their customers, and they love talking to their customers,” Goodman said. “It’s getting a little wearing.”

Still, Goodman said, the city is doing what it can to get people to come downtown and shop, whether in person or via the internet.

“We’re doing what we can to get people to come down safely,” she said.

They’ve set up late shopping hours for Thursday nights and created a contest in which visitors to Petoskey’s downtown can download QR codes to enter a drawing.

There was a “secret tree lighting” event on YouTube, and the city’s website includes a holiday catalog to help people shop downtown online.

“We’ve done this for six or seven years now, but I think it’s more important than ever to get this out this year,” Goodman said.

The city also has quietly established a “social district,” meaning that it is legal to walk around outside within the downtown boundaries with an alcoholic drink.

One establishment in Petoskey already had a license to sell to-go drinks as of late November, and Goodman said that two to four others will soon be able to serve to-go drinks, too.

“When everyone has their permit, I think you’re going to see a lot of activity with it,” she said. “It’s great to be able to walk around and look in the windows.”

In line with recommended health protocols, Goodman said Petoskey officials don’t want to encourage crowds to congregate, so they have not erected outdoor tents or warming houses. People will be motivated to keep moving in order to keep warm while they imbibe.

“Every [downtown] sidewalk is in the [social] district, and it is clearly marked, so you can walk around and enjoy your drink and enjoy yourself,” Goodman said.

“I just think that the overall shopping experience in general, people want that, and you just can’t beat what we are offering in downtown Petoskey.”

The local businesses that are most at risk amid the pandemic are the restaurants because, after a summer of lowered guest capacity, the most recent state orders forced them to cease all dine-in service. Goodman said that since this is a time of year when people typically eat out and spend money at restaurants, she hopes residents and visitors should make a point to do the same — only with carry out.

“If we don’t support [our local restaurants] now,” she said, “they may not be here when we’re ready to go back to them.”

“THINGS HAVE TO GET BETTER” Officials in Traverse City want to strike the same balance: getting as many people downtown as possible but spreading them out over time, rather than drawing big crowds during a single day, weekend, or evening.

Therefore, the popular December shopping staples like Men’s Night and Ladies Night have been canceled this year.

“We’re doing a lot in our office to make sure people are still coming downtown and feel safe in doing so,” said Nick Viox, downtown experience coordinator for Traverse City’s Downtown Development Authority.

He said he’s not worried about local businesses’ ability to survive the pandemic amid the holiday season; rather, he said, he hopes people just realize how important it is to support local businesses right now.

“I think what I would like to stress is that we should be supporting our local businesses when we eat out, when we are buying things for the holidays,” Viox said. “We are going to these great places that have really been the backbone of our downtown and the heartbeat for our community for a long time.”

There are still some events scheduled for downtown that are designed to bring in people at a more staggered pace. For instance, a strolling light parade is scheduled for the evening of Dec. 12. Nonprofit agencies will set up light displays throughout the downtown region that people can explore.

There will also be a weekend of holiday storefront window displays.

“We’re getting creative with it, and we’re making sure that people aren’t gathering at certain times,” he said. “We’re really hoping that our community pulls through on this one.”

Many downtown businesses are helping the effort by offering unique online sales through their websites, Viox said.

There’s also a fundraiser on the DDA’s website featuring 20 gift baskets that will be available for bids. The money raised will go to a fund to help downtown businesses through the winter.

Viox said he is more concerned about the months following Christmas than he is about the holiday season itself.

“We believe that the first quarter of 2021 may be a difficult time,” he said. “Usually that’s a time of year when a lot of our businesses see the biggest dip, so they are already expecting that.”

Shanny Brooke, owner of Higher Art, an art gallery that recently moved from a space on Traverse City’s Union Street to a more visible and larger location on Front Street, said she is worried about what will happen to downtown businesses this winter.

With restaurants closed to dine-in business, she said the downtown streets sometimes feel deserted.

“We’re all connected, and that one big component right now is completely shut down, so it hurts everyone,” she said.

Brooke said she held several events in her gallery over the summer that brought in customers, but she wouldn’t risk holding an event now due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in the region. On the other hand, since she moved, she believes her

Shoppers inside Burritt's Fresh Markets wine department, in Traverse City.

store can safely accommodate eight to 10 customers at a time rather than six, the limit at her old location. It’s just a matter of getting them in the store.

“I honestly don’t feel great about the next two months. I definitely think people are trying to go out of their way to shop local and be supportive of their local businesses,” she said. “But there are people who are my regulars who I have not seen since February. I one hundred percent completely understand.

They just aren’t going anywhere.”

Brooke runs an unusual business for downtown in that she’s able to operate her gallery alone, so she doesn’t have to pay employees. Still, she said she anticipates dipping into savings to get through this winter.

“It’s scary, and when I took this leap of faith and moved into this new space, I did it with my eyes wide open, knowing it was a crazy time to do it,” Brooke said. “At same time, things have to get better.”

HIGHER COSTS, FEWER CUSTOMERS Julie Hearne, owner of Millie and Pepper creperie and general store in Traverse City, has insight to the struggles of both retail and food service business amid the pandemic.

She is worried about both sides of her business. She is afraid that all of the Christmas inventory she purchased will have to be discounted after the holiday, and she said that she reluctantly signed up for Door Dash to help boost crepe sales, even though that app takes a significant cut of the revenue.

One of the challenges Hearne said she faces is that there just hasn’t been much foot traffic on Union Street lately. Earlier, she said she thought it would be a great holiday season because it seemed like so many new people had moved to Traverse City. Then the pandemic came raging back, and people started to stay away.

“I’ve had so many people come in and

say, ‘I just moved from Chicago,’ or ‘I just moved from New York,’ or, ‘I just moved from Florida, and we love it here and we're going to stay,’” she said. “But with the pandemic, no one’s going out. … I really don’t know how this holiday season is going to go. We might have a lot of things on sale after Christmas.”

Hearne, though, isn’t upset that she could no longer let customers eat crepes in her store because of the state’s emergency order. She said she supports the order.

“All of that said, I totally get the shutdown.

I think it’s a must to be safe,” Hearne said. “I have a mother I don’t want to see get sick.”

Flooring, a flooring installation company.

She said both of her businesses have been lucky, in a way, because she hasn’t been affected by the pandemic as much as some other business owners. Pet stores were deemed essential businesses at the beginning of the pandemic, so they were able to stay open. And her flooring business has been booming since people have been spending so much time at home and are undertaking renovation projects.

Hyland said that as a local business owner, she understands how important it is to support local businesses, especially now as the pandemic draws on.

“If people would want to continue to have local stores, we need to continue to support them,” she said. “That’s really important for the restaurants. People need to continue to get carryout and buy local or we won’t have these businesses.”

She said she felt she had no choice but to sign up with an app like Door Dash, which, after an introductory 30 days, takes 30 percent of each order’s sales. She said she wouldn’t have done it but for the pandemic forcing so much of her business curbside. She has her own online ordering system, but she realized that she needed something more.

“The people that work for me can’t be that excited about it, because when you tip on the app, you’re not tipping the people that work here; you’re tipping the driver, who deserves a tip,” she said.

Kathy Hyland owns two businesses in Traverse City: Pets Naturally, a retail pet store on South Airport Road, and Bay View

“If people would want to continue to have local stores, we need to continue to support them,” she said. “That’s really important for the restaurants. People need to continue to get carryout and buy local or we won’t have these businesses.”

TIS THE SEASON FOR … FIGHTING BACK In Petoskey, Jennifer Shorter has done all she could to make sure people feel comfortable to come into one of her three downtown gift shops this holiday season, Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts, the Katydid, and JW Shorter & Son Mercantile.

Shorter has seen to it that her businesses offer local shopping online and free local delivery. They offer curbside pickup for

people who don’t want to go into stores.

She said she takes COVID precautions seriously and that most customers appreciate that, though she said she’s still getting used to limiting the number of customers allowed in the store at one time.

“I don’t enjoy having someone at the front door telling people that they can’t come in and that they have to wait, and to have to pay them to do that,” she said. “But we’ve made it work.”

Shorter said she hopes the pandemic isn’t too devastating for downtown Petoskey and other local businesses. She doesn’t want to see them go away.

“I’m worried about what businesses won’t be here a year from now or six months from now, and I’m making sure personally to support those businesses that I want to see make it,” Shorter said.

Heading into the winter season should be an extremely busy time for Don Marszalec, owner of Bahnhof Sport in Petoskey.

So far, things are going pretty well, especially given the uncertainties surrounding what it’s going to be like to go downhill skiing this winter. Will skiers stay home if they are forced to take warming breaks in their car rather than in front of a fire in the ski lodge? Marszalec isn’t sure.

“That’s to be determined, and it could go either way,” he said. “We’re hoping for the best. If anybody can figure this out and make sure it's enjoyable, it’s the Nubs Nobs and the Boynes.”

He expects that this season, he’ll sell more cross-country ski gear than usual, because that’s a sport people can do on their own or in small groups, and the activity itself keeps skiers warm.

“My solution is, buy more gear. But that’s not everybody’s solution,” Marszalec said.

“It’s a one-year thing, and you have to fight your way through it.”

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 11

NURSES

SPEAK

Four local nurses share what it's like at work and at home as they fight to save us from COVID-19 — and ourselves.

By Todd VanSickle Ask any nurse right now; there’s a good chance he or she has a story about crying in the bathroom while at work.

Although nurses have always had to deal with stress on the job, the COVID-19 pandemic has only made things worse as a second wave pushes northern Michigan hospitals to capacity, leaving nurses to care for more patients infected with a highly politicized but deadly virus.

Prior to the pandemic, nurses experienced workplace stress at a higher rate than most other professions, according to the American Holistic Nurses' Association. The pandemic, however, has greatly exacerbated stressors, including physical demands, management issues, lack of resources, and difficulty balancing home and work responsibilities.

Additionally, nurses are at a higher risk of being exposed to the virus, all the while confronting conspiracy theorists and naysayers as the number of COVID patients and related deaths continue to grow at alarming rates.

Northern Express recently spoke to four nurses who deal with the effects of COVID-19 — at work, in public, and at home — on a daily basis.

Nurse Robin Walicki, BSN, RN District 10 Health Department Nurse Robin Walicki has been the clinical supervisor for District 10 Health Department’s Family Health Division for

about a year: “Right before COVID came along,” she said, with an uneasy chuckle. “It has really shifted what we do.”

Walicki’s workload has more than doubled since the pandemic. She normally handles communicable diseases and immunizations.

Nowadays, the nurse said COVID has been the focus of her job.

In the spring, the District 10 Health Department was approving testing by various providers and sending numbers to Lansing. Walicki said making sure correct data and numbers are accurately reported to the state is a big part of her job.

“If someone was in the emergency room or physician's office, the provider had to fill out a four-page form. It was created by the CDC, and we basically had to make sure that the testing was appropriate,” Walicki said.

COVID-19 is tracked through the Michigan disease surveillance systems where communicable disease positive results are recorded.

“We were working around the clock — and then very quickly it really ramped up here, and we had a new role to play,” Walicki said. “A lot of what we do is been notifying people to stay home, interviewing them, and doing case investigations for contact tracing.

As the numbers have increased steadily throughout the year, we've had more and more work to do in that role.”

She said it’s disheartening when she looks at the data and interviews and sees that people are not staying at home, especially when they’re sick, or not wearing masks.

12 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

“We're seeing the outcome, because our [number of] cases are so much higher, and we're starting to see more deaths,” Walicki said.

Making a tough situation worse: She receives a lot of angry phone calls from people claiming that COVID-19 is a hoax or telling her “It's not a big deal,” or “It's just the flu.”

“For the most part, though, I would say, I have seen a lot of people really cooperate and really take it seriously — more than what I thought,” Walicki said. “But there is a very vocal group out there that doesn't believe in what we're doing, and that can be very frustrating.”

Some of those people include Walicki’s own family. Her parents live nearby, and she worries that they will fall ill with the virus, but her daughter and husband have different views.

“I live right in the middle of the spectrum of opinions,” Walicki said. “My husband does the complete opposite of my parents, and I have to strike the balance in my own house in order to get along with my spouse.

Sometimes my husband and my 25-year-old daughter say what I’m doing isn't making a difference, and to let people live their life.”

Many nights when the nurse comes home from work, she takes a minute to grab something to eat — usually a frozen dinner — then starts up her computer and is back working again.

“It really does impact your family life, because it's all you talk about, and your family really doesn't want to hear about it

24/7,” Walicki said. “I've had a lot of issues with my husband being upset. We had some interventions, like getting off my phone or computer. I am trying to do better, but it's a challenge.”

The stress can sometimes be too much, she said, and she has hit her breaking point several times, usually at work.

“I had some meltdowns at work in the middle of the summer,” Walicki said. “I had a week where I was pretty delicate. Each day I was crying at work for a couple of hours — and partly because I feel bad for our team and how much stress they’re under. We keep pivoting and adjusting, adding to our team, training new team members. It really wears you out.”

The last time Walicki cried at work was a couple of months ago when her manager came into her office and witnessed all of her devices ringing and pinging. That was right around the time when area schools began seeing a rise in positive COVID cases.

“I just couldn’t take it anymore, and I cried, like, the whole day,” Walicki said.

Despite the challenges and struggles she faces at home and at the health department, she has found a silver lining in such critical work: It’s creating closer relationships with the community and various organizations.

“We're trying really hard at the local health department,” Walicki said. “Even though sometimes it's quiet from us out there in the social media world, we are putting in countless hours and weekends — everything we can do to keep people safe.”

Intensive Care RNs McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital, Petoskey As of mid-November, McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey had at least 26 COVID patients.

Two registered nurses, who care for COVID patients in the hospital’s intensive care unit, agreed to speak with the Northern Express anonymously.

COVID has made their job more stressful, which is partly attributed to being asked to do more with less.

“It's a lot more stressful,” Nurse 1 said. “It was stressful anyway, but now it's more scary than it was before. We are spread really thin.”

During a time when staffing is short and the stakes are higher, nurses are required to take extra precautions and wear more personal protective equipment.

“Everything we do takes longer, requires more precision, more mental and emotional thoughts. And we're doing it with fewer people and fewer resources,” Nurse 2 said.

“It's much higher acuity. As far as the patients, we have to not only take care of them, but we also have to protect ourselves, the community, and our colleagues. It's very mentally taxing.”

The nurses say it is a process just to enter the isolated COVID area, which is behind three zippered walls and requires clinicians are in full PPE. Getting resources or staff, like a respiratory therapist or physician into the unit can be challenging. However, the nurses are often the ones on the front lines dealing with the patients.

“It is not as easy to care for these people, who are a lot sicker than a lot of other patients in the hospital, even in the ICU,” Nurse 1 said.

“You have to think through everything and plan ahead, and if you're in an emergency situation — sometimes that's hard to do.”

The stress of seeing people sick and dying has always been an emotional part of the nurses’ job, but now it is significantly more intense, Nurse 1 said.

“Watching families suffer and patients dying alone is hard,” Nurse 1 said. “And knowing that we've worked so hard to provide the best care we can, but we're not going to save their lives.”

Because the nurses put their lives on the line and witness the deadly effects of COVID-19 each day, they say they’re frustrated when they hear how misinformed patients are and how politicized the virus has become.

“I need to insulate myself from it, because when I see it or hear it, it takes me to a very dark place,” Nurse 2 said. “It makes me angry, but it also makes me feel so defeated because I don't know how we can make it any more clear. I don't know how these people tie their

shoes in the morning if they can't see that this is real.”

Nurse 1 has taken care of COVID patients who didn’t believe the virus was real; many have died. She thinks more people would think differently if they were a nurse or simply contracted the virus.

“It's easy to deny something that you aren't up to your neck in every time you go to work,” Nurse 1 said.

The frustration with the naysayers goes beyond the hospital unite. The nurses are in disbelief when they see so many people not wearing masks or not wearing them properly in public. To make things worse, they have been scowled at and even harassed for wearing a mask.

“My children have been treated bad because they're the only ones in the gas station wearing a mask,” Nurse 1 said. “To me, it's maddening.”

Over the course of the pandemic, the attitudes towards nurses have changed, according to the RNs. “It's not the same as it was back in the springtime, where you were a hero,” Nurse

nursing degrees, and we are devoted. This is a really hard time to be a nurse.”

The nurses said they can’t take all the credit in the fight against the pandemic.

They said McLaren is doing the best that it can do, and their coworkers play an equally important role in combating COVID-19.

“The support among the healthcare providers and the nurses is phenomenal,” Nurse 2 said. “We have come together.

We were already a great team, but this has strengthened our bonds. We aren’t the frontlines of this fight; we are last line of defense. The frontlines are the ones out there that should be wearing a mask, social distancing, and washing their hands.”

Triage Nurse Miguel Shuff Grand Traverse Women's Clinic Schuff has worked at the Grand Traverse women’s clinic for about eight years. Her husband, David, is a registered nurse and currently working at Munson Healthcare’s COVID unit.

In mid-November, Shuff, who normally works five days a week, took a couple of days

“Sometimes my husband and my 25-year-old daughter say what I’m doing isn't making a difference, and to let people live their life.”

1 said. “Now, you get dirty looks if you have your scrubs on in public, whether they're clean or you just got out of work. I feel like we're treated more poorly. It is not the same as it was nine months ago. You're not a ‘healthcare hero.’”

Recently, Nurse 2 found herself caring for a COVID patient who might have contracted the virus from President Donald Trump’s Nov. 2 campaign rally in Traverse City.

“I had to go in and care for this person, and it was very difficult to separate my true feelings,” she said. “I mean, he set himself up. And now I'm going to put myself at risk because he was careless.”

Both nurses said they support Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s attempts to fight the pandemic and think President Trump could have done more, instead of politicizing the virus.

“I think, politically speaking, Donald Trump is disgusting, and the way he's handled this has been disgraceful,” Nurse 1 said. “And I do believe it has cost lives. … We do not have a Biden/Harris tattoo, but we do have

off for the first time since April. The main reason was to spend time with her kids, who are struggling with the pandemic both socially and academically.

She has three kids ranging from elementary school to college age. Her daughter in middle school has been having a hard time with online school.

“She hasn’t been very successful with it,” Shuff said. “With me and my husband working, that has been challenging.”

She admits that her job isn’t as stressful as her husband’s, but she still finds the level of stress has been elevated in her workplace.

Her office has limited the number of patients that come in to see the doctors, and Shuff is responsible for determining if patients should come in for an appointment or schedule something online.

Overall, she said the clinic’s patients have mostly complied without objection to the safety guidelines and wear a mask when coming into the office.

“Up into the recent uptick in cases, I felt safer at work than I did out in public,” Shuff said. “Because that is where you see people

showing their feelings about wearing a mask. At work, we adhere to the regulations.

It is scientifically proven that masks work.”

Occasionally, she does get calls from patients complaining that they can’t bring someone to their appointment for support. The Women’s Clinic cares for a number of patients, many during and directly after pregnancy.

Despite feeling safer at work, she still has concerns that she could contract the virus — possibly through her own family, including her college-bound daughter.

“They are finding that people her age are transmitting it more,” Shuff said. “And David working on the COVID unit poses its own challenges as far as being comfortable with close contact, where that has never been an issue. We are definitely not used to that.”

Her husband reassures her that he feels safe at work and wears all the proper PPE. “I have never have been there before or seen it, so it is hard for a spouse to accept that,” Shuff said.

She thinks that her kids are held to a different standard because both of their parents are nurses and could potentially be at a high risk of being exposed to the virus.

“It is like they have to be even a little more distant,” Shuff said. “There is this underlying stress and guilt if I was to asymptomatically spread it. I worry about it.”

In the past, the married nurse couple rarely talked about work at home.

“Before COVID, it was possible to not bring the stress of work home,” Schuff said.

“But now that David works in the COVID unit, he has been talking about it more. I think it’s his way of venting.”

Shuff and her family have also noticed how her husband’s demeanor has changed after working long hours at the hospital.

“We talked about it as a family,” Shuff said. “David has this habit lately, after a couple of 12-hour shifts, to come home and look for an argument within the family. We all talked about it. I can recognize that he is stressed out.”

The family hasn’t decided on the best way to deal with the added stress but is exploring some options. Her daughter’s pediatrician recommended counseling for her, but due to COVID-19, the family is finding that most mental health professionals are either not taking any new clients or offering counseling over the phone or online only.

“We weren’t comfortable — and she wasn’t either — establishing that kind of patient-doctor relationship over the phone,” Shuff said. “It is our first time as a family looking for some extra support, and we can’t get it right now. That is why I was at a point that I had to take a day off work and support my kids.”

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 13

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: I broke up with my boyfriend because he didn't prioritize our relationship and wouldn't commit. He now wants to get back together and has been sending me cards and letters for weeks. Is it foolish to give him another shot?

— Red Flag?

A

: A man who’s all, “Forget the Tinder randos! I need you!” is a man whose sexual freedom means less to him than being with you. It’s basically like a lion knocking on the door of the zoo: “Got a cage for me?”

Still, it’s natural you’re giving his pleas to get back together the side-eye: “Hmmph.

So...I wasn’t good enough for you before, but I’m suddenly good enough for you now?!”

However, his unwillingness to commit may have had little to do with you.

There’s this myth that you just need to find “the right person” and then you and Senor Perfecto ride off into the sunset together to Happily Ever After. In fact, clinical psychologist Judith Sills explains that you need to find not just the right person, but the right person at the right time: when both you and he are ready to commit. “Readiness” doesn’t strike lightning bolt-style; it develops.

It’s a psychological shift that acts as a “catalyst for commitment”: for the intimacy, vulnerability, and responsibility for another person that commitment entails.

Evolutionary psychologists David Buss and David Schmitt observe that having sex can ultimately cost women vastly more than it costs men: nine months of pregnancy plus a squalling kid to feed versus a teaspoon of sperm plus a wave goodbye. So, for men, “a short-term sexual strategy” — casual sex with a variety of women — has “reproductive benefits,” allowing them to leave more descendants carrying their genes (in contrast with a “long-term sexual strategy,” commitment). However, which strategy is optimal for an individual man or woman is context-dependent. Contexts that motivate a man to commit include wanting a family, a meaningful partnership, and/or a “highly desirable woman” who can afford to put her foot down: “Relationship or bust, Bob.” Chances are the “foot” scenario is behind your previously blase Bob’s transformation (probably along with how we don’t always realize what we have until we’ve lost it). Tell him something soon — either that you’ll hear him out or that it’s over. If it’s the latter, knowing now will allow him to go out with dignity -- before he scrapes bottom on chick

BY Amy Alkon flick lines to poach for his letters and decides begging for love can be genderfluid: “I’m also just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.”

All Night Yawn

Q

: I’m a 32-year-old woman with a pattern of getting into relationships and then not wanting to have sex. I’m really into sex when the relationship’s new. But about a year in, I stop wanting to have sex, even when the emotional part of the relationship is good. Why does this happen, and is it preventable?

— Dismayed

A

: Over time, everything gets old. Even men and women who are into the freakiest sex eventually look over at their partner all, “Ugh. Not another night of the same old-same old in the sex dungeon.”

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Where men and women tend to differ is in their motivation for having sex once they’re in a relationship. There’s an assumption that, in relationships, women’s sexual desire will work just like men’s -- that is, rise up out of nowhere (like teenage boys’ inappropriate erections).

Sexual medicine specialist Rosemary Basson, M.D., finds that this “spontaneous hunger” to have sex is a thing for women in the initial dating stage and for some women in relationships, especially if they and their partner are apart for a few weeks.

But many women in long-term romantic partnerships stop having the physical craving to get it on — the urge for sexual “release.”

However, they might still be motivated to have sex for other reasons, like to feel close to their partner. Unfortunately, like you, they and their partners often assume their sexual desire is dead and gone. But Basson explains that a woman’s desire is probably arousable,meaning triggerable. (It just needs waking up.)

In practical terms, if a woman who wants to want sex starts making out with her partner, she’s likely to get turned on. This becomes the springboard to her feeling that physical urge to have sex. However...this assumes she was seriously attracted to him to begin with and didn’t just succumb to advice to be “open-minded” about a great guy she found sexually meh. Initially, excitement over what’s new (new guy!) is often mistaken for the excitement of finding somebody hot.

However, if actual attraction wasn’t there at the start, there’ll be nothing to revive once the early sexual disbelief — “How do you even do that? Are you double-jointed? In Cirque du Soleil?” — erodes into “Cirque du So Tired Of This.”

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Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 15

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16 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

SERVICES

Holiday Entertaining Hot List Special touches for an unforgettable meal

By Lynda Wheatley Whether you’re sending dinner to someone you love, hosting an intimate with your immediate, or supping alone, you should celebrate the occasion with as much gusto as you’ve done in years past. Gone is the hustle and bustle, the many obligations to go to and fro. This season, we’re all about staying in, scaling down, and seizing the moment for exactly what it is: an opportunity to forgo those long-established grand family traditions — just this once — for an itty-bitty but unforgettable evening with your nearest dearest. Here, some small but special touches to make it magical.

UNCHAINED MELODY

There’s a reason giant hams and turkeys are the hallmark of holiday meals: One feeds many, many guests.

But with a smaller guest list, you can afford to top your table with something far more fun than a giant hunk of meat. These Robin Reed Christmas Crackers aren’t edible, but they do contain a paper crown (OK, a folded tissue party hat), a good old British riddle, a wrap of printed Christmas carols, and a set of musical horns so you and your merry band of guests can make some beautiful music (or at least fun memories) round the table. $19.95 for a set of eight 12-inch English crackers. We found them through Cutler’s in Petoskey: buy them at cutlersonline.com.

BEG, BORROW — IT’S A STEAL

Were you aware that a wedding is not required for hosting an elegantly designed dinner table? Turns out, you don’t need a lot of money, your own dishware, or even any design skills. You can simply dial up the experts at 307 Events in Traverse City and choose one of their curated design packages or lean heavily on their skills (and immense dinnerware inventory) to create one of your own. Pricing starts at $85 for a 6-person table, which includes place settings and a centerpiece, plus — Christmas miracle! — they do the dishes and laundry. Email sales@307events.com or visit www.307events.com.

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Playing it safe and not seeing Grandma for the holidays this year? You can still make it as special as ever. Simply bake up one of her famous casseroles so she doesn’t have to, then tote it on over in a 9-by-13-inch aluminum cake pan you can customize, and she can keep. (Bonus: She’ll never lose a pan to a potluck party again.) Choose from black, red, navy, copper, or robin’s egg blue, and the staff at The Robin’s Nest — the new home to handmade, refurbished, and up-cycled goods in Kingsley — will guide you through dozens of design options to help you personalize it perfectly. $45 plus shipping; local pickup is free. Call (231) 8832002 or DM "RobinsNestMI" via Facebook to order.

The best thing to happen to the Christmas table since Uncle Frank finally quit asking why you’re not married yet, these Social Distance Zappers give any close talker in your crew 4.5 volts of good reason to back the heck up. $9.99 each.

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WARM, FUZZY, MERRY & BRIGHT

So maybe you’re swearing off all human contact and eating your holiday meal over the sink. We fully support this decision — if you stand equally firm atop on one of these bright and beautiful woven 2-by-3-foot area rugs we found at Onekama’s MacBeth & Co., a veritable treasure trove of knick-knacks, home decor, tableware, and toys no smalltown gift-shopper should miss. $30. Open weekends until Christmas.

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Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 17

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Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 19

CHEFS’ (HOLIDAY) TABLE

By Janice Binkert

One might imagine that professional chefs go all out for holiday meals at home with family, preparing all manner of elaborate festive fare, plated and garnished exquisitely.

That’s not always the case, most say, but when they do cook on these occasions, what is more important to them than getting fancy is sourcing as many ingredients as possible locally — just as they do when they cook in their respective restaurants. And looking back on fond memories of holidays past, the four highly talented chefs featured here admitted that sometimes at those gatherings, instead of being in the kitchen, they've often just sat back and enjoyed their family’s’ traditional holiday specialties — be they simple or sophisticated — prepared by their parents, aunts, uncles or grandmas!

GRAMMA K’S MAPLE WALNUT MERINGUE CAKE

(Servings vary) From Jennifer Blakeslee, co-owner/chef with Eric Patterson of The Cooks’ House in Traverse City “My Gramma Kilbourn would be thrilled that I am sharing this recipe. She was an amazing woman and a wonderful cook, always cooking up a storm. She added delight to our holidays and to every other family gathering with her personality and culinary treats. Gramma K lived to be 100 years old.

We found this old magazine picture in with her recipe cards after she passed away — that’s what this cake looked like when she made it.

My cousin Cassy, who lives in Colorado, and I have been reminiscing about her even more with the holidays coming up, and this special recipe is always part of the conversation. It’s a bit of a project to make but totally worth it!”

ROSA MARINA SALAD

(Servings vary) From Stephanie Wiitala, co-owner/chef with partner Jonathan Dayton of S2S Sugar 2 Salt in Traverse City “As long as I can remember, there has always been a big beautiful bowl of Rosa Marina salad at our Christmas dinner table. My mom got the recipe from my Aunt Marilee, and she has a 40-year-old typewritten recipe card signed by her to prove it. You can make it ahead the day before, which is convenient around the holidays. When I grew up and had my own home, my mom passed this recipe on to me, and I have played with it over the years, substituting fresh, seasonal local fruits. As a professional chef, I love to use recipes as an inspiration and make them my own by changing things up. However, with this recipe, I admit that the original way my mom has always made it is still my favorite. I guess that’s what makes it so special.”

Ingredients 8 ounces orzo pasta, (similar to a pasta called Rosa Marina) 2 eggs, ¾ cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons flour 1 teaspoon fruit juice from canned fruit (or apple juice if using other fruit) 11-ounce can mandarin oranges, well drained 1 16-ounce can chunk pineapple, well drained (my mom says to drain it overnight if possible). You can substitute other fruits like apples, pears, blueberries, or peaches if you like — about 24 ounces total of fruit (approximately 2 cups) 1 16-ounce carton of Cool Whip (I never buy this, so I use 1½ cups of heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks, with ¼ cup sugar added at the end.)

Procedure Boil orzo pasta about 8–10 minutes or until al dente. Drain completely and set aside.

Mix eggs, sugar, salt, flour, and fruit juice in a small saucepan. Cook on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring with a whisk the whole time until thickened and the consistency of pudding (don’t walk away while making this). Remove from heat and set aside until cooled.

Mix the cooked orzo into the cooled pudding, put into a large sealed container, and chill overnight in the refrigerator if making the day before, or for at least 2–3 hours.

Remove chilled orzo/pudding mix from refrigerator and fold in drained mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and Cool Whip (or whipped cream). Put back into the refrigerator to chill for another hour before serving. Choose a pretty clear glass bowl to serve and enjoy!

20 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

Ingredients 1¾ cups walnut pieces ¾ cups maple syrup, divided (we prefer any of the maple syrups from BLiS Gourmet) 4 large egg whites at room temperature, to ensure proper whipping (source the eggs locally if possible) ½ cup sugar ¾ cups light brown sugar, packed 2½ cups whipping cream (we think the cream from Hilhof Dairy is the best in the area) 1 teaspoon vanilla Bourbon or whiskey to taste (we really like the whiskeys from Iron Fish, Ethanology, or Mammoth distilleries here in northern Michigan) Procedure Toss walnut pieces with ¼ cup maple syrup and spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in a 350-degree oven until browned; this will take 10-15 minutes. Remove from oven, cool down, and chop finely with a knife. Turn the oven down to 275 degrees.

In a large bowl or in a stand mixer, whip the egg whites until foamy. Once they are foamy, start to pour the sugars into egg whites while whipping on medium-high speed. Once the sugars have all been added, continue to whip until stiff peaks form. (You have just made meringue - congratulations!) Set aside.

Draw three 9-inch circles on a piece of parchment paper. Put the parchment paper onto a sheet pan. Fill a pastry bag with a plain tip with some of the meringue. Starting about ½ inch inside of the first circle, pipe a nice fat spiral around the circle until you reach the middle.

Continue to do this until all three circles have spirals in them. If you don’t have a pastry bag, just spread the meringue using a spatula.

Put the sheet pan into the oven and bake for one hour. Depending on your oven, the meringue may get a little brown; don’t panic, it will be fine. Let the baked meringue rest on a wire rack on the counter until completely cool, and I mean completely cool. If they are even a little warm, the whipped cream you will be placing on top of them in the next step will melt and make a big mess.

Whip the cream until just a wee bit past medium peaks, and then fold in the remaining ½ cup of the maple syrup, the vanilla, and all but about ⅓ cup of the finely chopped walnuts (the reserved ⅓ cup walnuts will be sprinkled on top of the cake when finished).

Place a circle of meringue on a plate. Sprinkle some whiskey on the meringue and spoon ⅓ of the whipped cream on top. Spread the cream up to about ½ inch from the edge. Place the next meringue on top, press gently to help seal it, and top with more whiskey and whipped cream. Repeat for the last layer. Once the last bit of whipped cream has been added to the top of the cake, gently smooth it out with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved walnuts on top.

Put the cake into the refrigerator for at least one hour or ideally, overnight. The reason for this is the meringue will need to soften to make it easier to slice.

UNCLE GREG’S EGG BAKE

HERB ROASTED PRIME RIB

(Serves about 6) From Adam McMarlin, owner/chef of Wren in Suttons Bay Most of the foods our family makes and serves during the holidays are different every year, but the one thing that always appears on the table on Christmas morning is this dish from my wife’s uncle Greg. I had never heard of “egg bake” before I moved here, so when my wife said we were going to her parents for that, I didn’t really know what to expect. In the end, I made sure we left with the recipe. (I’m a big fan of casseroles in general.) Uncle Greg is jovially enthusiastic about food, so he and I have gotten on really well ever since I first met my wife’s family. He’s always really interested in what we’re doing at the restaurant, and he makes the best pickles I’ve ever had!

Ingredients 5–6 English muffins 1 pound breakfast sausage (Uncle Greg uses commercially made sausage that comes in a plastic tube, but if you have a butcher shop that makes its own sausage (like Maxbauer or Burritt’s in Traverse City), feel free to get it there — mild or hot Italian sausage works well, too.

1 red bell pepper, diced 1 medium onion, diced 8 ounces shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese (You can use commercially produced cheddar or buy your favorite from your local cheese monger, like The Cheese Lady in Traverse City) 10 eggs ½ cup milk salt and pepper to taste Procedure Spray or butter a 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Roughly tear up English muffins and line bottom of baking dish with them.

Sauté sausage until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as you go. When fully cooked, drain sausage (reserve fat) and allow to cool. When cool, spread a layer of sausage over the English muffins.

Dice and sauté the bell pepper and onion in some of the reserved fat. Drain, allow to cool, and then layer over the sausage. Layer the shredded cheese over the veggies.

Whisk the eggs well with milk and season with salt and pepper. Pour eggs carefully over the mixture in the baking dish. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight.

Take the baking dish out in the morning and sit at room temperature for 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake, covered, for 50 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes.

PRO CUISINE TO GO

While you’ll be on your own preparing these chefs’ family recipes at home, you can have some of them cook for you when you order take-away from their restaurants!

S2S SUGAR 2 SALT S2S/2GO call-ahead take-away and curbside program, pickup 9am–2pm, Friday through Sunday.

(231) 492-4616, sugar2salt.com (check website for weekly updates on menus and times).

(Serves 4) From Chef Guillaume Hazaël-Massieux, chef/owner of Restaurant La Bécasse in Burdickville “I grew up in Guadeloupe, and my parents really enjoyed good food. At the holidays, being French, we would always have champagne, which pairs well with almost everything.

Christmas Eve dinner started with appetizers like oysters on the half shell, smoked or cured salmon with crème fraîche and blinis, and a foie gras terrine. The main course was traditionally a standing prime rib roast accompanied by al dente green beans in garlic and butter, and always served with a gratin Dauphinois (which is now also on our restaurant menu). The next course was a green salad and a cheese assortment, and dessert was the classic French yule log. We ate the leftovers on Christmas Day! I have continued those holiday traditions with my family here in the USA.” Ingredients 4-pound standing prime rib, bone-in salt and pepper, to taste ½ pound butter, at room temperature 2 tablespoons chopped garlic 1tablespoon chopped fresh thyme 1 tablespoon crushed coriander seeds 1 tablespoon chopped parsley Procedure Remove prime rib from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Mix butter, garlic, thyme, coriander and parsley together. Season the meat, then coat with the herb butter.

Place meat on a rack in a roasting pan, bone side down, and roast on the middle rack of the oven, basting with herb butter every 5-10 minutes, for approximately 45 minutes, or until cooked to your taste – medium rare is recommended (about 125-130 degrees on an instantread meat thermometer). Then, leaving the meat on the same oven rack, turn on the broiler and broil for 10-15 minutes to crisp the outside of the prime rib and caramelize the meat.

Remove meat from oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before carving. Serve with gratin Dauphinois.

THE COOKS’ HOUSE Check Facebook for the latest take-away menu and order before 6:00pm the day before you want to pick up. Pickup time is 4pm–6pm. Happy hour to go for two people is also available. (231) 946-8700, cookshousetc.com WREN Wren is not currently doing take-away, but rather using the opportunity during this slower time of year to make some improvements to the restaurant that will further enhance the dining experience for future

guests. Watch their website and Facebook page for possible changes and updates ahead. (231) 271-1175, wrensuttonsbay.com La Bécasse Open Wednesday through Saturday for takeaway pickup from 4:00pm –7:00pm (last order must be placed by 6 6pm). Regular menu (where you’ll find that famous gratin Dauphinois), take-andbake menu, and happy hour to go. (231) 334-3944, restaurantlabecasse.com

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 21

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dec 05

saturday

HYBRID VIRTUAL FARMLAND 5K & FREE FOR ALL BIKE: 1045 Rasho Rd., TC. Challenge yourself on the original course anytime from Dec. 4-6 & still get your finisher medal & event souvenir. A classic, European style turf grass course awaits you with optional knee high barriers including straw bales, fallen logs, wood fence & stone fence. Traverse over grass or snow & ice, wooded dirt trails, & farmland running terrain.

Register by Dec. 3. runsignup.com/farmland5k

----------------------

NORTHERN MICHIGAN 22ND ANNUAL TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE: Pick up your order on Dec. 12 from 10am-2pm curbside at 1003 South Maple St., TC, the home of Trinity Lutheran Church and School. Ticket orders are underway at MyNorthTickets.com. Pay by credit card online, or order in person at the Trinity Lutheran Church Office & pay by cash or check. Offering 28 festive cookies in a variety pack.

---------------------CANNED FOOD & TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE: 10am-2pm, Pinecrest Village parking lot, Mackinaw City. Presented by Pinecrest Village & Emmet County EMS. Please donate new, unwrapped toys that are around the $10 or above price range. Books are also needed.

---------------------FRISKE’S COUNTRY CHRISTMAS: 11am3pm, Friske Farm Market, Ellsworth. Meet Santa, feed his reindeer, enjoy hot cider, hot chocolate, donuts & more. friske.com

---------------------CHRISTMAS JOURNEY: 5:30pm, New Hope Community Church, Williamsburg. Dec 4-6 & 11-13. The Christmas Journey is a 45 minute outdoor walking tour through fire lit woods encountering costumed actors, live animals & a story from the Bible. Free. newhope.cc

---------------------REGISTRATION FOR BATTLE OF THE BOOKS: 6pm, Nov. 30 - Dec. 6. Open to fourth & fifth graders residing or attending school within the boundaries of Grand Traverse County, the Traverse City Area Public Schools school district, Elk Rapids School District, Forest Area Schools Community Schools school district, Leelanau County, & Benzie County. A book-based quiz competition. Kids read stories together & then compete for the Championship VIP Prize. Teams also have a chance to win prizes for sportsmanship, team spirit, most creative team name, & more. Event will take place on March 6, 2021. battleofthebooksgt.com/registration

dec 06

sunday

HYBRID VIRTUAL FARMLAND 5K & FREE FOR ALL BIKE: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

--------------

NORTHERN MICHIGAN 22ND ANNUAL TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

---------------------CHRISTMAS JOURNEY: (See Sat., Dec. 5) ---------------------REGISTRATION FOR BATTLE OF THE BOOKS: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

dec 07 dec 08

monday

NORTHERN MICHIGAN 22ND ANNUAL TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

tuesday

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TC: Santa will be in an antique fire engine, touring the Boardman, Oak Park &

Traverse Heights neighborhoods today from 3-5pm. Visit web site to see his route. https:// www.downtowntc.com/downtown-light-parade

december

----------------------

NORTHERN MICHIGAN 22ND ANNUAL TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

05-13

---------------------29TH ANNUAL BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS: VIRTUAL EVENT: 8:30-10am. Presented by the Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce. $10. facebook.com/ events/361912345093405

dec 09

send your dates to: events@traverseticker.com

wednesday

GAYLORD STATE OF THE COMMUNITY 2020: 8-9am.

Join online to hear from local leaders on various topics impacting the area. $10. gaylordmi.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/ register/4548

----------------------

NORTHERN MICHIGAN 22ND ANNUAL TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

---------------------DRIVE-THROUGH FLU SHOTS: 5-8pm, Mesick Bus Garage. For ages 6 months+.

---------------------HEMINGWAY IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN: ONLINE PRESENTATION: 7-8pm. A look at the influence northern Michigan had on both Ernest Hemingway’s personal life & literature through commentary & rare family photos provided by Christopher Struble, president of The Michigan Hemingway Society. Presented by NCMC Lifelong Learning Club. Register. Free. ncmclifelonglearning.com/event-4035346/Registration

dec 10

thursday

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TC: Santa will be in an antique fire engine, touring the base of Old Mission Peninsula & Civic Center & beyond neighborhoods today from 3-5pm. Visit web site to see his route. https:// www.downtowntc.com/downtown-light-parade

----------------------

NORTHERN MICHIGAN 22ND ANNUAL TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

---------------------STORIES @ HOME: 11am. Featuring “Bear Snores On” by Karma Wilson, followed by a craft. Log on to web site to see the supply list & to participate. greatlakeskids.org/offerings

---------------------GET CRAFTY @ HOME: 1pm. Wrap it Up! Kids can make gorgeous homemade wrapping paper. Log on to web site to see supply list & participate. greatlakeskids.org/offerings

---------------------VIRTUAL OTSEGO COUNTY HOLIDAY FAN FORUM: 6:30pm. Held via Zoom. Presented

by Families Against Narcotics. A family/support forum for those affected by addiction. familiesagainstnarcotics.org/otsego

dec 11

friday

NORTHERN MICHIGAN 22ND ANNUAL TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTMAS COOKIE SALE: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

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FIRST STEPS SCIENCE: 11am. Evergreen Investigation: Bring in some branches for the holidays. Evergreens make great decorations… use your nose, eyes & fingers to find out some “treeriffic” science. Log on to the web site to see supply list & participate. greatlakeskids.org/offerings

---------------------CHRISTMAS JOURNEY: (See Sat., Dec. 5) ---------------------LIGHTING UP INTERLOCHEN: 5:30pm-7pm, Tom’s Food Market, Interlochen. Santa Claus

HollyPOP has been reimagined… Now a Festival of Lights. Over two dozen trees were added to the front lawn of the Old Art Building, Leland and half were selected to represent a “12 Days of Christmas” display. Each tree was given a color, designated by the ornaments and the individual artists were assigned a tree and a line from the “12 Days of Christmas.” They were free to interpret/express their theme as they wished. You can see this display through Jan. 1, 2021. oldartbuilding.com/events/holly-pop

will light a new 20-foot mega pixel tree featuring synchronized light & sound that can be enjoyed over FM radio. Santa will then be whisked away to Interlochen Public Library. Children’s treats will be distributed via drive-thru service. interlochenpubliclibrary.org

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OTP YOUNG COMPANY HOLIDAY CABARET: 7pm. The OTP Young Company’s Broadway Showstoppers will feature songs from the season in a musical revue.

Streams on Facebook Live. facebook.com/ events/364676364819748

dec 12

saturday

CHRISTMAS MAGIC IN BEULAH: 9am-6pm, Downtown Beulah. Featuring a parade, cookies, Santa, kids activities & more. Stores will be open late for holiday shopping. Parade begins at 5:15pm. clcba.org/event/christmas-magic

---------------------DRIVE THROUGH SANTA VISITS & CHRISTMAS BRUNCH TO-GO: 9am-noon, The Inn at Black Star Farms, Suttons Bay. From the safety of open car windows, children can share their wish lists with Santa, who will be seated on his front porch wearing a face shield. While secret lists are being shared with Santa, guests can pop their trunk for Santa’s elves to load brunch into the car to enjoy safely at home. $75 serves 4 people. blackstarfarms.com/brunch_santa

---------------------“GIFTS TWICE GIVEN”: Ward and Eis Gallery in downtown Petoskey continues a tradition of giving back to the community by donating 20% of purchases on Sat., Dec. 12 & 19, to Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan.

The benefit is known as “Gifts Twice Given” be-

cause part of the proceeds of gifts purchased on these two Saturdays also supports life-saving & life-changing services for adult & child survivors of abuse & assault. 231-347-2750.

---------------------LEAP CONVERGENCE: 10am. Join LEAP (Local Education & Action Partnerships), a studentorganized online convergence via Zoom. The Vision of the LEAP Convergence is to Cocreate a Community Culture of Joy, Celebrating & Fostering Local Diversity, Resilience, & Regeneration.

Free. facebook.com/LEAPConvergence2020

---------------------DOWNTOWN STROLLING LIGHT PARADE: 5-9pm, Downtown TC. Twelve non-profit organizations will be scattered throughout downtown TC, each displaying their own rendition of the popular holiday song “Twelve Days of Christmas.” Vote for your favorite entry on-site & online. Proceeds will benefit the Downtown Relief Fund & participating non-profits. Each vote will cost $1 with the option of a larger donation. The winning entry will be the Honorary Grand Marshall of the 2021 Downtown Traverse City Light Parade. downtowntc.com/ downtown-light-parade

---------------------CHRISTMAS JOURNEY: (See Sat., Dec. 5) ----------------------

LIVESTREAM: INTERLOCHEN ARTS ACADEMY DANCE COMPANY’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’: 7:30pm. Join the Interlochen Arts Academy Ballet Company as they bring the story of Clara & her enchanted Nutcracker to life, with mesmerizing visual effects, stunning costumes, & charming characters who will amuse children & grown-ups. “The Nutcracker” will be livestreamed via multi-camera webcast at live.interlochen.org & on Facebook. Free. tickets.interlochen.org/events/arts-academydance-company-presents-nutcracker/december-12-2020-730pm

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 23

BECAUSE YOU DESERVE A BURRITO

december

05-13

dec 13

sunday

VIRTUAL SUGAR PLUM FAIRY TEA: 1-3pm. Enjoy a festive virtual experience with principal performers of the Crooked Tree Arts Center School of Ballet’s “The Nutcracker.” Each reservation includes a custom Sugar Plum Fairy Tea kit created by the CTAC School of Ballet dancers & a personal link to the virtual tea. Kits will include a Nutcracker photo book, china teacup, tea, pink lemonade, treats, & decorated pointe shoes made by the dancers. Kits may be picked up at CTAC Dec. 7-12 at the front desk during business hours. $40-$75. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskeyctac-online/virtual-sugar-plum-fairy-tea

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TRAVERSE CITY

231-929-3200 • 4952 Skyview Ct.

CHARLEVOIX

231-237-0955 • 106 E. Garfield Ave.

LAURA INGALLS WILDER’S CHRISTMAS MEMORIES (ZOOM): 2pm. Join Laura as she reminisces about her childhood Christmases & looks forward to making memories with her new family, husband Almanzo & daughter Rose. Registration is required. Once you register you will receive further instructions. Free. tadl.org/event/ laura-ingalls-wilders-christmas-memories-zoom

---------------------CHRISTMAS JOURNEY: (See Sat., Dec. 5)

helping hands

DONATE TO MITTEN & HAT TREES: At local banks/credit union in East Jordan from Nov. 30 - Dec. 11. All donations go to Care & Share Food Pantry for distribution during this holiday season. Other items that are welcomed: socks, slippers, scarves, earmuffs, etc.

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www.schulzortho.com

FRIENDS MITTEN TREE: Interlochen Public Library. Please drop off your mitten donations in the box provided by the main doors of IPL. The donations go to local schools. interlochenpubliclibrary.org

---------------------KOSCH RESTAURANTS MATCH DONATIONS: Four northern Michigan restaurants will match donations made by their diners to Toys for Tots. Alpine Tavern and Eatery, CRAVE Pasta, Pizza and Pub in Gaylord, along with Moose and Stella’s Café and Trout Town Tavern and Eatery in Kalkaska are selling Toys for Tots trains for a $5 donation & will match that donation up to $1,000 at each location. The restaurants will also accept toy donations. Runs through Dec. 18.

---------------------PET ASSISTANCE: If you need assistance with meeting your pet’s needs, Hoop’s Pet Food Pantry can help. They will be at the Square Deal Country Store on Woodmere Ave., TC every Weds., 2:30-5:30pm & Sat., 12-3pm, offering pet supplies donated by your friends, neighbors & community businesses. If you’d like to make a donation, food & supplies can be dropped at the store during business hours. facebook.com/Squaredealcs

FIELDS CHELSEA WATERPROOF

ongoing

BUDDY IN WINDOW DECORATING CONTEST: This year’s theme is Buddy from the movie “Elf.” Harbor Springs: Decorate your windows, storefronts, yards, & city. Prizes for first, second & third place in five categories: Retail Gifts, Retail Clothing, Restaurants, Service, & Residential. Fill out entry form & email to: info@harborspringschamber.com. Entry deadline has been extended to Dec. 17. files. constantcontact.com/3655fd4c201/266416012462-453c-bced-52daf4202cd2.pdf

---------------------LIGHT UP THE NIGHT: Bellaire, Dec. 1-29. Both businesses & residents: Spread holiday cheer through your lighting displays. bellairechamber. org/event/light-up-the-night-soup-cook-off-2

---------------------144 E FRONT STREET

MO-TH 10-6

TRAVERSE CITY, MI 49684

FR-SA 10-8

plamondons.com

SU 1-5

24 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

SANTA WILL REPLY TO NORTH POLE EXPRESS MAIL: From now until Dec. 17, drop your letter to Santa at the dedicated mailbox located at the Lyric Theater, Harbor Springs.

Kids, remember to include your name & address so that Santa will know exactly where to send his reply.

CALL FOR ENTRIES FOR 10TH ANNUAL YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL: Regional high school students are invited to submit an original one-act play. Finalists are paired with national theater mentors, win $100 & see their play performed on the City Opera House stage. Deadline is Dec. 11. cityoperahouse.org/ypf-entry-deadline

---------------------DISABILITY NETWORK MEN’S GROUP: Zoom meetings: Mondays, Dec. 7-28, 1011am. This group is for men in the community seeking support, an opportunity to learn new skills & a chance to connect with other men with disabilities. Visit web site for registration details. disabilitynetwork.org/events

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DISABILITY NETWORK WOMEN’S GROUP, SHARING HERSTORY: Zoom meetings: Mondays, Dec. 7-28, 11am-noon. For women with disabilities living in an unprecedented time of social distancing & sheltering in place. disabilitynetwork.org/events NORTE’S RUN SABADOS: GT Civic Center, TC. A weekly walk or run held on Saturdays.

Meet outside the Wheelhouse at 10am, & then split up & hit the track.

WEEKLY ZOOM STORY HOUR: Wednesdays, 11am, with Miss Ann. Presented by Interlochen Public Library. Meeting ID 876 3279 3456.

Pass Code 364283.

---------------------BELLAIRE WINTER FARMERS MARKET: Held on Fridays from 10am-2pm. Located at both Bee Well & Terrain in downtown Bellaire.

---------------------BOYNE CITY INDOOR FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays, 9am-noon through May 15. City Hall Lobby, Boyne City. petoskeyarea.com/eventdetail/boyne-city-indoor-farmers-market-1

---------------------INDOOR FARMERS MARKET: The Village at GT Commons, The Mercato, TC. Saturdays through April, 10am-2pm. thevillagetc.com/ indoor-farmers-market-7-2-2-2-2-2

art

THE COVID 19 WREATH COLLECTION: Dec. 5 - Feb. 21. Presented by Art Rapids.

Bring an old or new wreath to the Walk of Art Park, Elk Rapids & attach it to the fence on S. Bayshore Dr. Give some festive bling to a “Pandemic” fence that goes on & on. Take a photo & tag on Instagram or Facebook: #artrapids.

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HOLLYPOP REIMAGINED: A FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Old Art Building, Leland. Over two dozen trees were added to the front lawn & half were selected to represent a “12 Days of Christmas” display. Each tree was given a color, designated by the ornaments & the individual artists were assigned a tree & a line from the “12 Days of Christmas.” They were free to interpret/express their theme as they wished. Runs through Jan. 1, 2021. oldartbuilding.com/events/holly-pop

---------------------HOLIDAY ART MARKET SHOW & SALE: Gaylord Area Council for the Arts, Gaylord.

Jewelry, photography, pottery & much more. Inperson or online. Runs through Dec. 23. Hours: Weds. - Fri., 1-4pm; Sat., 12-2pm. gaylordarts. org/events--exhibits.html

---------------------“THE LAMPLIGHTER”: Downtown Manistee, next to Christmas tree. This sculpture created by artists Tyler & Ashley Voorhees was constructed with dozens of antiquated tools & manmade artifacts in a grand gesture to this humble worker of the past. You are invited to pedal the stationary bikes surrounding the sculpture to generate light. “The Lamplighter” symbolizes a collective connection to spread that light. The exhibition will run from Dec. 4 - Jan. 4. Presented by Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts.

---------------------JRAC GIFT MARKET: Jordan River Arts Council, East Jordan, Nov. 21 - Dec. 19. Open daily, 1-4pm.

---------------------“JUST GREAT ART”: Presented by Plein Air Painters of Northwest Michigan. An online ex-

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hibit & sale of over 50 works by regional artists.

20% of the proceeds benefit City Opera House.

Runs through Jan. crookedtree.smugmug.com/ Traverse-City/Exhibitions-TC/Just-Great-ART/ Just-Great-ART/i-fNDV67s

---------------------VIRTUAL GLEN ARBOR HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE: Shop artisans online this year, Nov. 7 - Dec. 18. facebook.com/glenarborholidaymarketplace

---------------------NORTHPORT ARTS ASSOCIATION HOLIDAY ARTS MARKET - ONLINE: Runs through Dec. 13. northportartsassociation.org

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“DON’T MISS THE BOAT”: Harbor Springs History Museum. Presented by the Harbor Springs Area Historical Society. This exhibit highlights the historic ferries of Little Traverse Bay & features original watercolors & giclees by local artist William Talmadge Hall. Runs through the summer of 2021. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11am-3pm. harborspringshistory.org/history-museum-exhibits

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OPEN CALL FOR “THOSE WHO TEACH”: Deadline to apply is 1/15/21. Exhibit featuring the artwork of Michigan’s Visual Art Educators. higherartgallery.com/calls-for-art

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------------------------------------------CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF THE ARTS, CHARLEVOIX - FREE “MAKE & TAKE” CRAFT KITS: Through Dec. 31, while supplies last, drop by & pick up a free ornament craft kit to take home & enjoy.

- ALL MEDIA OPEN CALL TO MICHIGAN ARTISTS: Submit to: re | ART: reject, reflect, refine, remark, a juried fine arts exhibit. Artists are invited to comment visually on the many shifts taking place in our current experience, as change opens a path to rethink, revisit, reunite, recharge, reevaluate, redefine, etc. Juror will award cash prizes. Deadline for entry is Jan. 10 at noon. charlevoixcircle.org/juried-exhibit CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE MARKET: Charlevoix Circle of Arts hosts its annual Circle mARkeT, Nov. 19 - Jan. 2, featuring over 40 local artists’ & makers’ handmade items, original art & locally produced specialty treats. Open: Mon.-Fri., 11am-4pm; Sat., 11am-3pm; *Wed. & Thurs. mornings from 10-11am are reserved for vulnerable patrons. CharlevoixCircle.org

German-born American Impressionist Mathias Joseph Alten, often referred to as the Dean of Michigan painters, is regarded as one of the most celebrated regionalist artists to have worked in the United States. Runs through Jan. 31. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/index.html - MICHIGAN MODERN: AN ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY: This exhibit celebrates Michigan’s modern architectural design history from 1928-2012. It is comprised of over 50 photographs by James Haefner primarily for the State Historic Preservation Office as part of their Michigan Modern Project, & featured in the book by State Historic Preservation Officer Brian Conway, titled “Michigan Modern: An Architectural Legacy.” Runs through Jan. 31. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/ index.html

OPEN DAILY FOR HOLIDAY SHOPPING!

Stop in or call to schedule private in-person or FaceTime shopping

Gift Certificates and Curbside Pickup Available

---------------------GLEN ARBOR ARTS CENTER, GLEN ARBOR: - GAAC OUTDOOR GALLERY: CALL FOR ENTRIES: The Glen Arbor Arts Center is accepting submissions for its 2021 Outdoor Gallery. The exhibition space is the south & west exterior walls of the GAAC’s building at 6031 S. Lake St., Glen Arbor. Original work by a single artist will be selected by a jury, & exhibited from May 2021 to April 2022. Deadline for submissions is February 25, 2021. Open to all media, the selected work will be eye-catching, compelling, colorful & communicate the spirit of the Glen Arbor Arts Center with fresh originality. The selected exhibitor’s original work will be enlarged & reproduced on five, separate, 5 foot x 5 foot square outdoor panels for one year. A $500 prize will be awarded to the selected artist. Submissions are on-line only. To apply visit GlenArborArt.org & click on ARTIST/Calls For Entry. glenarborart.org/exhibits/ current-exhibits - SMALL WORKS HOLIDAY EXHIBITION: An exhibition of original art – painting, photography, fiber, mixed media, jewelry & more. Featuring art work 12” x 12” & smaller, all priced at $150 or less. Runs Nov. 13 - Dec. 17. The GAAC is open daily, 11am – 2pm. glenarborart.org

130 E. Front St, TC • 231-421-8868.

126 E Front St, TC • 231.932.0510

Give a gift of Silver!

Gift Certificates too.

Open Daily thru Jan. 1 • Fri & Sat all Winter!

112 North Main Street • Leland, MI 49654 • (231) 256-7747 • follow us: facebook.com/tampicolelandmi

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CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, PETOSKEY: - THE COLLECTIVE IMPULSE: NEW WORK

BY RUTH BARDENSTEIN, JEAN BUESCHER BARTLETT & SUSAN MORAN: Runs through Dec. 18, Gilbert Gallery. These three artists met in Ann Arbor &, over time, have nurtured both personal & creative connections.

They regularly share & critique one another’s work & together visit gallery & museum exhibitions. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/ collective-impulse-new-work-ruth-bardensteinjean-buescher-bartlett-and-susan “KIDS ON COMMUNITY”: Youth artists were invited to submit artwork in response to the theme of “Community.” Fun, thoughtful & creative interpretations by Michigan youth (grades 3 - 12) are included in this online image gallery. Runs Dec. 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey-ctac-online/kids-community-online-exhibit - CALL & RESPONSE: Held in Bonfield Gallery. This exhibit recognizes the many ways works of art can spark conversation, action & aid in the processing of ideas, feelings, experiences & events. Original work in a variety of media will be on display. Runs through Dec. 18. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-online-ctacpetoskey/call-and-response

---------------------DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC: - DENNOS MUSEUM MINI HOLIDAY ARTIST MARKET: Shop online, Dec. 1-23. Featuring the work of over 20 Michigan artists. Dennos Museum is temporarily closed to the public until Dec. 9 alongside NMC. Please visit the museum website for up to date hours of operation. shop.dennosmuseum.org - MATHIAS J. ALTEN: AN AMERICAN ARTIST AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY: The

Deadline for Dates information is Tuesday for the following week.

From Our Store to Your Door STAY SAFE. SHARE JOY. SHOP LOCAL.

Free gift wrapping • Free curbside pickup or in-town delivery Free shipping on gift cards and orders over $75 www.sanctuarytc.com 231.932.0775 In The Village at Grand Traverse Commons Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 25

Chateau Christmas

The Christmas Setup

In A Timeless Christmas

Christmas On The Square

TV of Comfort & Joy The December 2020 best of Hallmark, Lifetime, Hulu, and more

By Meg Weichman In a year when our holiday celebrations will look a little different, it’s extra comforting to turn to some of our most beloved traditions.

And one thing that remains a treasured constant is the onslaught of Christmas movies that flood our televisions the moment the Thanksgiving dishes are cleared.

You can not only sit in your pajamas in the safety and comfort of your home while you enjoy 90+ new holiday movies this year (it really is a Christmas miracle that quarantine didn’t affect production schedules) but also step into a world untouched by the effects of COVID-19.

It’s a place where tree lightings, Christmas concerts, and gatherings continue without any masks or social distancing measures. Where two strangers with differing perspectives on the holidays can open their hearts and find unexpected romance. Where old flames can reconnect and fall in love, where big-city career women can slow down and enjoy a slower pace of life, where attractive young men may or may not be Santa, and where actresses you might remember from the ’90s find new career relevance under the mistletoe.

As cheesy, predictable, and unrealistic as

2020’s slate of holiday flicks might be, they all abide by a sincere belief that the true meaning of the Christmas season doesn’t come from the parties, toys, or treats, but something more, something a pandemic can never change. And it’s that earnest message that makes these films resonate all the more.

Here, our picks for the new must-see holiday movies — helpfully arranged by trope — to get you through this most un-traditional season.

MUSIC-MAKING MERRIMENT Carols go hand in hand with Christmas cheer. But this year, in addition to some starstudded full-on musical extravaganzas, several films feature an emphasis on classical music musicians.

• Spend Christmas in Vienna with a driven classical cellist who unexpectedly finds herself nannying for a handsome widowed American diplomat at Christmastime. As she teaches the kids music and grows closer to their father, she reignites her passion for the cello and uncovers the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Hallmark.

• It’s a Chateau Christmas when a world-famous, exceptionally driven classical pianist returns to celebrate the holidays in a

26 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

charming small town with her family. There she is convinced to help with the hotel’s annual Christmas concert by her handsome old flame (a classical cellist). As they work together to put on the show feelings reignite while they show each other the true meaning of Christmas. Now playing on Hallmark.

• In addition to helping gift us a COVID-19 vaccine, Dolly Parton gives us Christmas on the Square, a new holiday musical with 14 new songs penned by the icon herself.

Christine Baranski, Treat Williams, Jenifer Lewis, and Parton all star in this heartfelt Christmas Carol and It’s a Wonderful Life mashup about the true meaning of Christmas.

Now Streaming on Netflix.

ROYAL RESOLUTIONS Royalty-related plots remain a rich realm for heightening Christmas fantasy.

• Featuring two major Broadway stars, including a 2020 Tony winner, One Royal Holiday follows a woman on the way home to her charming small town who offers a stranded mother and her handsome son a place to stay during a blizzard, only to find out they are the Royal Family of Galwick! As she introduces them to an old-fashioned American Christmas,

she just might find romance with the persnickety prince and show him the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Hallmark.

• In this sequel, Vanessa Hudgens reprises her dual roles as the princess of Belgravia and her American look-a-like for The Princess Switch: Switched Again. This time around, not only are they switching places, but Hudgens also adds a villainous third role who is in desperate need of being shown the true meaning of Christmas. Now Streaming on Netflix.

• In one of multiple films this year where carousels play a prominent part, A Christmas Carousel features a driven antique restorationist who is hired by the Royal Family of Ancadia to repair a carousel. There she must work closely with the handsome prince to not only complete the project but also realize the true meaning of Christmas. Premieres December 19 on Hallmark.

MILITARY MIRACLES While thanking and supporting our troops has always been an important part of the holiday TV movie season, this year, in addition to films set within the armed forces, an incredible amount of your standard Christmas romances also feature military-related subplots.

C e l e b r at e the Season with M AW B Y

The Christmas Chronicles 2

• Based on the Department of Defense’s longest-running humanitarian mission, Operation Christmas Drop follows a driven congressional aide assigned to write an investigative report on a Guam Air Force, only to be charmed by a handsome captain who sets out to change her mind about the importance of the facility and show her the true meaning of Christmas. Now Streaming on Netflix.

• In USS Christmas, a driven reporter embarks on a Christmastime “Tiger Cruise” where she not only meets a handsome naval officer but also stumbles upon a mystery deep in the ship’s archives that could reveal the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries • The Christmas Doctor stars Holly Robinson Peete as a no-nonsense traveling doctor assigned to a charming small-town clinic over Christmas. There she not only meets a handsome single dad but also begins to finally feel at home as she reflects back on her time serving in Afghanistan and discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

A DECEMBER OF DIVERSITY Not only are there more and more films featuring African American leads (especially from slow-to-diversify Hallmark), we are also seeing a broader representation of races and religions (A Sugar & Spice Holiday, Lifetime Dec.13, is the first holiday movie centered on an Asian American family; and Hanukkah steps into the spotlight with Love, Lights, Hanukkah, starring Ben Savage and Marilu Henner on Hallmark Dec. 12). But this year’s major breakthrough in holiday movie representation comes from the LGBTQ community, and we love to see it!

• The first Hallmark movie to feature a LGBTQ storyline, The Christmas House breaks ground with its story of a handsome couple, home in their charming small town for Christmas, anxiously awaiting news as to whether the adoption of their first child will go through. Starring Sharon Lawrence and Treat Williams, the film also focuses on a family coming together for what might be their last holiday at home, remembering the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Hallmark.

• Lifetime’s first ever LGBTQ holiday movie, The Christmas Setup, puts a gay romance at the center of the plot. The iconic Fran Drescher plays matchmaker to her driven lawyer son who has returned home to their charming small town for the holidays. She sets him up with his handsome secret crush from high school, and as they enjoy the holiday festivities together they just might find love and the true meaning of Christmas. Premieres Dec. 12 on Lifetime.

• The prestige offering in this year’s holiday movie lineup comes from director Clea Duvall and tells the story of a woman who plans to propose to her girlfriend at her family’s annual Christmas soiree only to discover that her girlfriend has yet to come out to her conservative family. Starring Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Aubrey Plaza, Alison Brie, Victor Garber, Mary Steenburgen, and Dan Levy, Happiest Season is a star-studded reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.

Now Playing on Hulu.

SMALL BUSINESSES IN JEOPARDY In perhaps the only sign of timeliness in these year’s films is the all-too-relatable struggles of small business and community assets in danger of closing.

A great reminder to BUY LOCAL this season!

• Hallmark icon Alicia Witt stars in Christmas Tree Lane, playing the owner of an old family-run music store who rallies her fellow merchants to save the downtown shopping district from evil developers. But when it’s revealed the handsome man she’s been falling for works for said developer, the two of them will have to work together to find the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

• A Hallmark movie that’s also written by its stars, Christmas by Starlight follows a driven lawyer who returns to her charming small town in order to save her family’s restaurant from an evil developer. Enter the developer’s handsome son, who agrees to help her cause in return for a favor, a favor that leads to love and uncovering the true meaning of Christmas.

Now Playing on Hallmark.

• Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey features showstopping choreography, songs

by John Legend, incredible design, and a star-studded cast (Forest Whitaker, KeeganMichael Key, Anika Noni Rose, and more) to tell the story of a once-joyful toymaker who is on the brink of losing his shop, Jangles and Things. But an unexpected visit from the adorable granddaughter he’s never met might just be the ticket to not only saving the shop, but also remembering the true meaning of Christmas. Now Streaming on Netflix.

JOYFUL JOURNALISTS Something must’ve been in the water back in 2018-2019, resulting in this year’s movies featuring a heavy presence of journalists, bloggers, podcasters, writers, TV producers, etc.

(We’ve counted no less than 15!) all in search of compelling Christmas stories where said search will also lead to love!

• In Dear Christmas, Melissa Joan Hart plays a driven podcaster who specializes in sharing true stories of holiday love. But when

this so called love expert finds comes home to visit family in her charming small town for Christmas, she may find a story of her own as sparks fly with a firefighter (Jason Priestly) who shows her the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Lifetime.

• Good Morning Christmas! features two professional rivals, one a jolly journalist, the other a handsome grinch of a broadcaster, who co-host a hit morning TV show and find themselves reporting on location in a charming small town the week before Christmas. And as they jockey for stories, the spirit of the season may reveal new sides to each other as they experience the true meaning of Christmas.

Now Playing on Hallmark.

• After finding a lost charm bracelet, a driven jewelry designer teams up with an investigative reporter in A Little Christmas Charm. Their mission? Find the owner and return the bracelet by Christmas Eve, all while making time for romance and the true meaning of Christmas. Premieres Dec. 6 on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

MAGICAL MEMORIES What’s Christmas without some (literal) magic? Stories of magical happenstance including time travel, angels, and Santa himself, are always crowdpleasers.

• In A Timeless Christmas, a driven academic working in her charming small town’s historic museum is surprised when the mansion’s handsome former owner travels from 1903 to 2020 and joins her on a holiday tour. It then falls on her to not only teach him all about the 21st Century, but also the true meaning of Christmas. Now Playing on Hallmark.

• Tamra Mowry stars as a driven astrophysicist who returns to her charming small town for the holidays in Christmas Comes Twice. After taking a spin on a carousel at the annual Christmas carnival, she finds herself transported back five years in time.

With a chance to change the course of her life, a course that may involve finding love with her handsome “frenemy” and discovering the true meaning of Christmas. Premieres Dec. 13 on Hallmark.

• The made-for-TV Christmas movie event of the season is this sequel from Chris Columbus (director of an ultimate Christmas classic, Home Alone), The Christmas Chronicles 2. Kurt Russell returns as Santa Claus in this exciting family adventure, and this time he's joined by Mrs. Claus — played by none other than Russell's real-life longtime partner Goldie Hawn. Together they will teach a naughty elf and runaway teen the true meaning of Christmas. Now Streaming on Netflix.

Purchase a magnum and receive a free stopper

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 27

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28 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

FARM SOLAR EXPERTS

HARVEST THE ENERGY OF THE SUN

“Jonesin” Crosswords "You're Getting Sleepy" --but a bit longer. by Matt Jones

ACROSS 1 Raccoon relative 6 BTS or Blackpink genre 10 Lawn mower's spot 14 "It's just ___ those things" 15 Edison's middle name 16 Jekyll's alter ego 17 Make yourself sleepy, in a way 19 "1917," for one 20 Writer Vonnegut 21 Thicke of "Growing Pains" 22 ___ Domingo (capital of the Dominican Republic) 23 Seed for flavoring soft drinks 25 Gp. with a Brussels HQ 26 "Whose ___ was this?"

27 "Well done" 30 Got angry 33 Concave cooker 34 Title said by Zazu in "The Lion King" 35 Tall prez, for short 36 Clothing item that I suppose could make you sleepy (if it's really comfy) 40 Poseidon's realm 41 Soften up 43 Acne medication brand 44 Tank covering 46 Synthpop duo that released an album of ABBA covers 48 Transport 50 Senatorial stretch 51 Snarky, but less fun 54 Lagoon locale 56 "Star Trek: TNG" counselor Deanna 57 Egyptian fertility goddess with a cow's head 59 Rice-A-___ 60 Chemical in turkey that makes many people sleepy 62 ZZ Top, e.g.

63 Pueblo dwellers 64 "Once Upon a Time in the West" director Sergio 65 Email app folder 66 "Let's Roll" blues singer James 67 "Melrose Place" actor Rob

DOWN 1 Scar 2 Actress Aimee of "La Dolce Vita" 3 Brain surgeon's prefix 4 "Be honest" 5 Back, on a boat 6 Liqueur used in a Black Russian 7 Feature of some khakis 8 Major kitchen appliance 9 Soft food for babies 10 Sword holders 11 Demonstration where you might hear the line "You're getting sleepy ..."

12 Fix 13 Style from about 100 years ago 18 "Aladdin ___" (David Bowie album) 22 Give in to gravity 24 Tacks on to a friends list 25 "Swoosh" company 27 Go off in the kitchen?

28 Cookie with a jokey November tweet showing itself in mashed potatoes 29 Warm, in a way 30 Prominence 31 Service with an "Eats" offshoot 32 Supplement that can help make you sleepy 33 Method 37 Early bird's prize 38 Application file suffix 39 George's sitar teacher 42 "The Hollow Men" poet 45 "Follow me for more ___" (snarky meme of late) 47 Website necessity 48 Nearsightedness 49 "Get Down ___" (Kool & the Gang song) 51 Burial vault 52 "It's worth ___!"

53 "Big Little Lies" author Moriarty 54 Sunday newspaper section 55 Ripped (off) 56 Relaxed pace 58 1990s game console, initially 60 Chance ___ Rapper 61 Cheer for Cristiano Ronaldo

lOGY

DEC 07 - DEC 13

BY ROB BREZSNY

BAGELS HAND-CRAFTED O N LY A T Y O U R N E I G H B O R H O O D B I G A P P L E B A G E L S ®

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) I'm envisioning a scene in which you're sitting on a chair at a kitchen table. At the center of the table is a white vase holding 18 long-stemmed red roses.

The rest of the table's surface is filled with piles of money, which you have just unloaded from five mysterious suitcases you found at your front door. All of that cash is yours, having been given to you no-stringsattached by an anonymous donor. You're in joyful shock as you contemplate the implications of this miraculous gift. Your imagination floods with fantasies about how different your life can become. Now, Sagittarius, I invite you to dream up at least three further wonderfully positive fantasies involving good financial luck.

That's the medicine you need right now.

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ScORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Mistletoe is a

parasite that grows on trees, weakening them.

On the other hand, it has been a sacred plant in European tradition. People once thought it conferred magical protection. It was called "all-heal" and regarded as a medicine that could cure numerous illnesses. Even today, it's used in Europe as a remedy for colon cancer. And of course mistletoe is also an icon meant to encourage kissing. After studying your astrological potentials, I'm proposing that mistletoe serve as one of your symbolic power objects in the coming months. Why? Because I suspect that you will regularly deal with potencies and energies that could potentially be either problematic or regenerative. You'll have to be alert to ensure that they express primarily as healing agents.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Boisterous Capricorn novelist Patricia Highsmith (1921–1995) once made the following New Year's Eve Toast: "To all the devils, lusts, passions, greeds, envies, loves, hates, strange desires, enemies ghostly and real, the army of memories, with which I do battle—may they never give me peace." Right now I suspect you may be tempted to make a similar toast. As crazy-making as your current challenges are, they are entertaining and growthinducing. You may even have become a bit addicted to them.

But in the interests of your long-term sanity, I will ask you to cut back on your "enjoyment" of all this uproar. Please consider a retreat into an intense self-nurturing phase.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): AIn the

French city of Strasbourg, there's a wine cellar built in the year 1395. Among its treasures is a barrel filled with 450 liters of wine that was originally produced in 1472. According to legend, this ancient beverage has been tasted on just three occasions. The last time was to celebrate the French army's liberation of Strasbourg from German occupation in 1944. If I had the power, I would propose serving it to you Aquarians in honor of your tribe's heroic efforts to survive— and even thrive—during the ordeals of 2020. I'm predicting that life in 2021 will have more grace and progress because of how you have dealt with this year's challenges.

WIFI

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): What's the cause

of the rumbling at the core of your soul? How do we explain the smoke and steam that are rising from the lower depths? From what I can discern, the fire down below and the water down below are interacting to produce an almost supernatural state of volatile yet numinous grace. This is a good thing! You may soon begin having visions of eerie loveliness and earth-shaking peace. The clarity that will eventually emerge may at first seem dark, but if you maintain your poise it will bloom like a thousand moons.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Author and

student Raquel Isabelle de Alderete writes wittily about her paradoxical desires and contradictory qualities. In accordance with current astrological omens, I encourage you to ruminate about your own. For inspiration, read her testimony: "I want to be untouchably beautiful but I also don’t want to care about how I look. I want to be at the top of my class but I also just want to do as best as I can without driving myself to the edge. I want to be a mystery that’s open to everybody.

A romantic that never falls in love. Both the bird and the cat."

CANCER (June 21-July 22): What would it take for you to muster just a bit more courage so as to change what needs to be changed?

How could you summon the extra excitement and willpower necessary to finally make progress on a dilemma that has stumped you? I'm happy to inform you that cosmic rhythms will soon be shifting in such a way as to make these breakthroughs more possible. For best results, shed any tendencies you might have to feel sorry for yourself or to believe you're powerless.

Old Mission Peninsula

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Novelist Tom Robbins

says you have the power to change how you perceive the world. You can change reality—and how reality responds to you—by the way you look at it and interpret it. This counsel is especially useful for you right now, Leo. You have an unparalleled opportunity to reconfigure the way you apprehend things, and thereby transform the world you live in. So I suggest you set your intention. Vow that for the next two weeks, every experience will bring you a fresh invitation to find out something you didn't know before.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): India's Prime

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20) There are too

many authorities, experts, know-it-alls, and arrogant ideologues trying to tell us all what to do and how to do it. Fortunately, the cosmic rhythms are now aligned in such a way as to help you free yourself from those despots and bullies. Here's more good news: Cosmic rhythms are also aligned to free you from the nagging voice in your own head that harass you with fearful fantasies and threaten you with punishment if you aren't perfect.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): According to Taoist

scholar Chad Hansen, "Western philosophers have endlessly analyzed and dissected a cluster of terms thought to be central to our thinking," such as truth, beauty, reason, knowledge, belief, mind, and goodness. But he reports that they've never turned their attention to a central concept of Chinese philosophy: the Tao, which might be defined as the natural, unpredictable flow of life's ever-changing rhythms. I think that you Aries people, more than any other sign of the zodiac, have the greatest potential to cultivate an intuitive sense of how to align yourselves vigorously with the Tao. And you're in prime time to do just that.

Minister Narendra Modi was re-elected in 2019.

During his campaign, the Virgo-born politician arranged to be photographed while wearing the saffron robes of a Hindu priest and meditating in an austere Himalayan cave. Why did he do it? To appeal to religious voters. But later it was revealed that the "cave" was in a cozy retreat center that provides regular meals, electricity, phone service, and attentive attendants. It will be crucial for you to shun this type of fakery in 2021, Virgo. Your success will depend on you being as authentic, genuine, and honest as you can possibly be. Now is an excellent time to set your intention and start getting yourself in that pure frame of mind.

Charming 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home on 0.49-acre with views of Grand Traverse Bay and shared water access along a beautiful wooded %ath.

15653 Upper Birch Dr, Traverse City $575,000

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): When author Ernest

Hemingway was working on the manuscript for his novel A Farewell to Arms, he asked his colleague F. Scott Fitzgerald to offer critique.

Fitzgerald obliged with a ten-page analysis that advised a different ending, among other suggestions.

Hemingway wasn't pleased. "Kiss my ass," he wrote back to Fitzgerald. I suggest a different approach for you, Libra. In my view, now is a good time to solicit feedback and mirroring from trusted allies. What do they think and how do they feel about the current state of your life and work? If they do respond, take at least some of it to heart.

Tim Schaub | Broker/Owner

Joe & Greta Campo | Licensed Agents

231.883.3545 | Tim@SchaubTeam.com

231.360.0004 | Joe@SchaubTeam.com

203 N Main St | Leland, MI 49654

MLS#1881349

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 29

NORTHERN EXPRESS

CLAS SIFIE DS

OTHER

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES: Interior & Exterior Painting Services Deck Power washing/Staining 231-499-6844 ________________________________________________ PLUMBER NEEDED: Looking for a reliable full-time plumber.

Experienced preferred but will train the right person. Hard working, with a positive attitude for this well established plumbing business. Great opportunity for someone to further there career in the plumbing trade. Higgins Lake area, contact, Jeff, 989-821-9227, please leave a message. ________________________________________________ LANDSCAPE / HARDSCAPE CREW LEADERS: Larsen's Landscaping is looking for experienced crew leaders.

Competitive pay and benefits included. Please email us at larsenslandscaping@hotmail.com for more info. ________________________________________________ CASH BACK ON SOUTHWEST FLORIDA HOMES: Thinking of buying a home in Bonita Springs, Estero, Ft. Myers or Naples? Get cash back with us. Bev LaLonde, Broker, Gulf Lifestyle Properties. Licensed in MI and FL. 239-234-0044

MEDICARE AND OBAMACARE HELP: I am a local PH, BCBSM cert agent and am ready and willing to help! 616218-4600 ________________________________________________ BATTLE OF THE BOOKS! LOVE TO READ? Join Battle of the Books—each team reads books and competes in front of judges to show what you know. It's all free! Go to www. battleofthebooksgt.com to learn more. ________________________________________________

Multi-Office CPA Firm Seeking Experienced Certified Public Accountant in Traverse City Our full-service CPA firm has been operating in southeast Michigan for 25 years and expanded to northern Michigan in 2011. Due to growth we require a seasoned CPA. The ideal candidate for this full-time position will have a minimum of five years’ experience in tax and accounting. Qualifications & Experience: Knowledgeable in financial reporting requirements; Advanced MS Excel Skills; Skilled in QuickBooks Enterprise, desktop and online; Excellent attention to detail; Strong interpersonal skills.

Benefits available. tspease@atscpas.com ________________________________________________ HOMESCHOOLING HELP: Former teacher and nanny available for homeschooling help and childcare in TC. (231) 632-9930

northernexpress.com/classifieds Easy. Accessible. All Online.

Mike Cummings Broker Owner/Realtor ®

TCarea.com

SRS - Sellers Representative Specialist SFR, RSPS, Webmaster US Army Veteran Lic. Residential Builder

Mike Cummings

Director of Social Media Buyers Agent

SRS - Sellers Representative Specialist SFR, RSPS, Webmaster US Army Veteran Lic. Residential Builder

Broker Owner/Realtor®

Dee@TCarea.com

Mike@TCarea.com (231)

Deanne Savinsky

570-1111

(231)

570-0050

Broker Owner/Realtor ®

TCarea.com

Broker Owner/Realtor®

Director of Social Media Buyers Agent

Dee@TCarea.com

Mike@TCarea.com (231)

Deanne Savinsky

570-1111

(231)

570-0050

Property Values are STILL Increasing.

Property Values are STILL Increasing.

Good deals are hard to find, but we are not!

Good deals are hard to find, but we are not!

Home inventory levels are low, tons of buyers are looking and despite an unusual 2020, Real Estate remains strong!

Home inventory levels are low, tons of buyers are looking and despite an unusual 2020, Real Estate remains strong!

If you are thinking about selling your home or property, now is the time to act!

Or if you are a potential buyer needing a dedicated Buyer’s Agent to assist you during these challenging market conditions, contact the experienced and creative local team that CAN help and WILL listen to you.

If you are thinking about selling your home or property, now is the time to act!

Or if you are a potential buyer needing a dedicated Buyer’s Agent to assist you during these challenging market conditions, contact the experienced and creative local team that CAN help and WILL listen to you.

Quality Contemporary!

3 Bd/2 full bath, 1,572 sq ft Full Walk-out and Barn 15 Acres - partly wooded $399,999 - 25 Mins South TC

Manton Area –18.5 Ac Rolling and very wooded with frontage on paved county road. 5 tax ID #’s sold as package. $54,000

Fife Lk Area 2,200 Sq Ft 4 bd/3 bath with 5.5 Ac & Garage Fully Remodeled! $160,200

TCarea.com

, LLC

™

Offices: 620 Second St, Suite B, Traverse City, MI 49684 & Cherry Ave, Rapid City

Diligent - Honest - Informed - Full-time - Powerful Marketing

30 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

Quality Contemporary!

3 Bd/2 full bath, 1,572 sq ft Full Walk-out and Barn 15 Acres - partly wooded $399,999 - 25 Mins South TC

Manton Area –18.5 Ac Rolling and very wooded with frontage on paved county road. 5 tax ID #’s sold as package. $54,000

Fife Lk Area 2,200 Sq Ft 4 bd/3 bath with 5.5 Ac & Garage Fully Remodeled! $160,200

TCarea.com

, LLC

™

Offices: 620 Second St, Suite B, Traverse City, MI 49684 & Cherry Ave, Rapid City

Diligent - Honest - Informed - Full-time - Powerful Marketing

Mike Annelin

Enthusiastic & Experienced

Call Mike 231-499-4249 or 231-929-7900 E

L SA

200 inspiring feet of frontage on East Bay 4 bed, 2.5 bed ranch on 1.05 acres $2,000,000 MLS# 1880314

ING

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LE

SA

Beautiful 3 bed, 2.5 bath ranch on Old Mission Elegant home, lovely countryside setting $425,00 MLS# 1881538

Gorgeous 4 bed, 2.5 bath in Port of Old Mission High quality finishes throughout, wooded setting $525,000 MLS# 1881334

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7 Modern Live/Work Units near Boardman Lake Very unique investment opportunity $1,100,000 MLS#1854942

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Lovely, remodeled 3 bed, 3 bath home On secluded and wooded Arbutus Ridge $350,000 MLS# 1882112

5 bed/3.5 bath, recent modern updates Beautifully wooded 1.5 acres $325,000 MLS#1876787

0.84 acre lot for a new build, near Kingsley Partially wooded with countryside views $30,000 MLS# 1882064

0.75 acre lot for a new build, near Kingsley Open lot, nice countryside views $30,0000 MLS# 1882065

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0.41 acre wooded lot for new build In desirable Slabtown - great location $150,000 1320 Wayne Street

Northern Express Weekly • dec 07, 2020 • 31

32 • dec 07, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly