Northern Express - November 18, 2024

Art CONNECTS US ALL

A Time of the Signs

The election is over. A clear winner has been selected. Now it’s time for all the signs, flags, posters, etc. to come down! They have become roadside litter and trash. Leaving yours up means you are either pouting or gloating. Both immature behaviors and very telling. For which juvenile actions will you be known?

Tom Graham | Traverse City

Vegan Thanks

I just wanted to say how much I appreciated your piece on eating a some or all vegan diet in Michigan. The idea that our food choices can come from a place of ethical consumption seems so removed from much of the world today. As so many have questions and concerns about a (mostly) vegan diet—is it healthy? What about my friends and family? What will I lose of my culture? etc.

But what your article so beautifully shows is it’s not about what leaving animal products (mostly or entirely) off one’s plate takes away but instead how much a vegan diet gives to the individual, the animals, and the environment. Thank you for inspiring change without creating fear. Our future depends on more articles like this.

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top ten

We’re all over the whole waiting-inline-on-Black-Friday thing, right? Skip the box store rush, and, for that matter, the online ordering craze, and shop local this year. Best of all, you can cross off gifts on your list well before Turkey Day comes around. Saturday, Nov. 23, head to downtown Suttons Bay for their Friends & Family Annual Event, where participating businesses will offer sales and discounts all day long. Plus, bring a nonperishable food item with you to help stock the panty at Leelanau Christian Neighbors! See all the details at suttonsbaychamber.com. Also on Saturday, Boyne City gets cozy with their Earlier Than the Bird shopping day, where you can score major deals from 7-11am, especially if you come out wearing your pajamas! Visit boynecitymainstreet. com to learn more.

Downtown Traverse City will be lit up on Saturday, Nov. 23! Front Street closes at 3:30pm; holiday music begins at 5:30pm; tree lighting with Santa at 6pm at Cass and Front streets; and the Light Parade begins at 6:30pm and rolls down Front St. from Franklin St. west to Union St. After the parade, head to Santa’s House at City Center Plaza on the corner of State and Cass streets, which will be open until 9pm. See the full schedule at downtowntc.com/downtown-light-parade.

Most of the time when we wander into Cherry Republic, it’s the dark chocolate covered cherries that get us. Or the sour cherries. Or the imperial pretzels. Okay, suffice to say, we’re drawn to the sweets. But on a recent visit, we went spicy instead. Cherry Bob’s Cherry Bomb Hot Sauce (say that five times fast) features Fresno chili peppers for heat and—of course—cherries to cool things down. This is a versatile sauce, ready to spice up a chicken dish or add dimension to your salsa. And best of all, it’s all-natural, vegan, gluten free, and low sodium…so you can feel good about polishing off a bottle in record time. (If you can stand the heat, stay in the kitchen for their Holy Habanero hot sauce.) Grab a bottle ($14.95) in their Glen Arbor or Traverse City stores, or online at cherryrepublic.com.

It’s August 1975, and the tweenaged girls of Balsam cabin have just awoken to find a bunk empty. Sometime in the evening’s wee hours, Barbara Van Laar, the inscrutable daughter of Camp Emerson’s owners, has disappeared. As searches ensue and tensions rise, blame bounces from campers to staff to residents of the nearest town (many of whom work on the property). There’s Tracy, Barbara’s confidante; Louise and Annabel, the bunk’s counselor team; TJ, a skilled wilderness guide and camp director; and even rumors of an escaped serial killer. Meanwhile, whispers of an unnervingly similar event two decades ago have resurfaced. As it turns out, Barbara isn’t the first Van Laar child to vanish overnight. In a town where power runs thicker than the forest itself, are some secrets meant to stay buried? Getting lost in bestselling author Liz Moore’s newest novel, The God of the Woods, is a good thing—in fact, you might just find yourself!

Digging

Were you the kind of kid who watched a lot of Indiana Jones or Tomb Raider and wanted to be an archeologist when you grew up? We have the next best thing: a special archeology presentation on the King House with the Harbor Springs Area Historical Society (HSHS). The King House is one of only two log cabins remaining from a historic Odawa community in the 1850s in what is now Good Hart. Kerri Finlayson, professor of anthropology and sociology at North Central Michigan College, will discuss the archaeological excavations at the village site. According to the HSHS, Finlayson “has led archaeological excavations in Belize, Nicaragua, and northern Michigan at both prehistoric and historic sites. She and co-director, Dave Frurip, have been excavating at the King House since 2016.” Catch the presentation at the Harbor Springs History Museum at 5:30pm on Nov. 21. More details (registration required; $15) at harborspringshistory.org.

Thanks for Giving & Project Christmas

Two special fundraisers underway in northern Michigan. First up is Northwestern Michigan College’s Thanks for Giving food drive, where students collect donations of food and dollars to provide 150-200 meal boxes to those facing food security. Fifty of the meals will go to families working with partner organization Big Brothers Big Sisters, while the remaining meals will be distributed to NMC families. Give at nmc.edu/news/2024/10/ thanks-for-giving-project.html. Meanwhile, in Cadillac, Project Christmas (pictured) is in its last two weeks of registration (ends Nov. 27) for eligible families in Wexford and Missaukee counties. Project Christmas is a community supported effort to help families and individuals in financial hardship celebrate the holidays. Last year, they served nearly 2,500 people. Find details at projectchristmaswexmiss.org.

As we’ve been collecting ideas to give friends, family, and maybe ourselves this holiday season, we came across Lake District Wine Co’s Wine of the Month Subscription. Each month, the wine shop will select a new bottle of wine for you to explore, complete with a digital card describing the region and wine details. The subscription starts at $30/month for three months and then runs month-to-month thereafter if your recipient chooses to continue on their drinking journey. We recommend opting into the $10 cheese pairing add-on, in which a perfectlypaired selection from the Cheese Lady is set aside with your bottle. Pick-ups happen on “Happy Day,” the third Wednesday of every month, when subscription members can mingle and talk wine. Get all the details at lakedistrictwine.com or stop by their shop at 539 E. Eighth Street in Traverse City.

Bottoms Up

The

Little Fleet’s Harvest Moon

With the winter solstice on the horizon, we’re packing in all the autumnal flavors we can, and we’ve got one more “must” for your checklist alongside pies and apple-picking: the Harvest Moon cocktail ($13) at The Little Fleet. Inspired by Michigan’s seasonal bounty, this cozy twist on a classic daiquiri combines a base of light rum, house-infused with cinnamon and Bartlett pears, with fresh-pressed lemon juice and a touch of caramelly maple syrup. Shaken and served in a Nick & Nora glass and finished with dehydrated citrus, this cornucopia of a cocktail is fall perfection in every sip. All that’s missing is the crackling bonfire (and maybe a little flannel!). Howl at the moon with one at The Little Fleet at 448 E. Front St. in Traverse City. thelittlefleet.com.

MODERN CLASSIC APPAREL

BOLDY GO WITH BARBOUR’S WAXED COLLECTION

ELECTION REDUX

spectator By steven Tuttle

The post mortem—and for Democrats that always involves finger pointing and blame— started as the votes were still being counted. This year they were way better at finding reasons they lost than they were at finding ways to win.

Senator Bernie Sanders, who seems to get crankier by the day, says Democrats lost because they abandoned working men and women and replaced them with show business elites. Seems a bit of a stretch; candidates always want support from

state funerals in foreign countries, and check in regularly on the president’s health.

It is not a great jumping off point to become president. Eight times vice presidents have assumed the presidency upon the death of the president and once due to a presidential resignation, but since 1837, only once has a sitting vice president been elected president—George H.W. Bush in 1988.

So, unlike Biden, Harris had no national identity, and her natural constituency was

Would Biden have defeated Trump? Probably not, but it’s difficult to see how he could have done worse.

celebrities because they help generate campaign contributions, though not necessarily votes.

But the Democratic consensus seems to be there is one person to blame for all of this and that person is President Joe Biden. Biden, we are told, should have never run for a second term, letting the party openly choose someone else. Or he should have resigned to let Harris assume the presidency and run as an incumbent. Or, after a disastrous debate, he should have withdrawn immediately to create a clear field for anyone. Clearly, the argument goes, he should not have waited until he did, dropping out late and giving Kamala Harris only 103 days to tell her story.

Perhaps any or all of that is true. Perhaps. But let’s play devil’s advocate and offer an alternative theory: the problem was not Biden’s timing but that he dropped out at all. Yes, he was damaged, he looked and sounded compromised, but it’s hard to believe he would have done worse than the actual outcome.

Democrats were so anxious to dump Biden after his painfully bad debate that they gleefully circled their wagons around Vice President Kamala Harris without thinking it through. That thought process needed to be more than “let’s get rid of Joe.”

Harris, you might recall, ran in the 2020 presidential primaries. The highlight of her candidacy, ironically, was her pummeling of Joe Biden on a busing question during a candidates’ debate. Her popularity peaked at 15 percent soon thereafter before tumbling back into the low single digits. She suspended her campaign in December of 2019 citing fundraising issues. She never really established any kind of national presence.

Some might assume being vice president is an excellent national platform from which to develop that national presence, but it isn’t. Vice presidents typically are handed the worst assignments, (like working with Central American countries to try and determine why their citizens are pouring through Mexico toward our southern border), go to

mostly isolated to California. Unlike Biden, through no fault of her own, she did not spend the last half century cobbling together coalitions of organized labor/blue collar workers, women, and minorities, the demographic groups that helped him win in 2020.

Whether she had the intent to capture those groups is sort of irrelevant because she had almost no time to do so. She campaigned hard, hit the swing states repeatedly, spoke eloquently but turned down way too many interview requests and other opportunities to define herself. It began to appear as if she was playing preventative defense, trying to maintain a slim lead in the polls that was a mirage. She was unwilling to create much distance between herself and unpopular Biden policies, some of which he slid past simply because he was likable Uncle Joe. Harris wasn’t disliked, but she wasn’t really known at all.

Yes, Biden had a disastrous debate, and he appears physically compromised and a bit foggy. (The current president-elect gets a pass on his irrational rambling not ever afforded any other politician in the country.) And it’s equally true Harris had a terrific debate, but it did not translate to votes because she did not fully address or defend the administration’s anti-inflation efforts or flesh out her own immigration policy.

Would Biden have defeated Trump? Probably not, but it’s difficult to see how he could have done worse. Do we think he’d have lost all seven swing states, lost the Senate, failed to regain the House, and garnered 10 million fewer votes than he did in 2020? (And even with a Biden loss, Kamala Harris might still have a political future, which has now evaporated.)

Those who were engaged in the Machiavellian efforts to force Biden out of the race, including the celebrity op-ed writers, are oddly quiet these days. They practically dislocated their shoulders patting themselves on the back while they celebrated their coup.

So how’d that work out?

MAKING MICHIGAN SAFER AND MORE JUST WITH “SECOND LOOK”

Guest Opinion

by Scott Tompkins

Michigan’s prison system is in crisis. Our state’s prisons are overcrowded, largely with elderly, sick, frail folks. People who have worked hard to change their lives. People who could be released to their families.

As someone who has done time in prison, I can tell you that for staff and those incarcerated, things are hard enough even when there is no overcrowding crisis.

Today, I live in Grand Traverse County, working for Before, During, and After Incarceration (BDAI), an organization

on average, those in Michigan prisons serve the longest sentences in the nation.

So how would Second Look help? Second Look would allow those incarcerated for 20 years or more to petition the sentencing judge to review the person’s record while incarcerated and determine if the person should be placed before a parole board and considered for release.

Most of the folks who have served 20 years have “aged out” of crime—especially those sentenced as minors to life without parole.

Our state’s prisons are overcrowded, largely with elderly, sick, frail folks. People who have worked hard to change their lives. People who could be released to their families.

that provides services and resources for incarcerated folks and their families.

Those of us who work for BDAI see the same problems in the Grand Traverse County jails as those which exist in the state prisons. Overcrowding leads to unsafe conditions for both an overworked staff and those who are incarcerated.

Staff continue to be vocal about the abhorrent workload and lack of safety, affecting morale and retention. Advocates and those incarcerated have also raised the alarm.

We can address this problem that creates real, human consequences for all Michiganders. Folks across the state are now advocating for a pending policy in the Michigan Legislature, called Second Look, which provides a real solution to change our incarceration system for the better while saving money at the same time.

We can make things better for incarcerated people and their families, as well as prison staff and our communities. Second Look provides a safe, just, money-saving path forward. We need Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and House Speaker Joe Tate to stand firm in their commitment to making a better Michigan and get Second Look to the finish line.

Increased pay incentives to attract more staff have failed to recruit people to become corrections officers—overcrowding in Michigan prisons is that bad. Besides holding elderly folks and those who have done the hard work of changing their lives,

Nort hern Lakes CMH presents: 17th Annual

Everybody recovers from something during their lives – it’s part of the human journey!

Be inspired by artwork celebrating the resilience and healing power of northern Michigan people on display through Nov 26 at Traverse Area District Library (Woodmere) or virtually at northernlakescmh.org.

They’ve made the change from adolescents to adults who are far more risk averse. Once they leave prison, they want to stay out of prison and be with their families. Many of them are seniors who are ill and getting poor care that would be better and cheaper on the outside.

In general, it costs $34,000 to $48,000 per year to keep folks in Michigan prisons. Add to that about $8,000 per person, per year for medical care and multiply that by the 5,000 people serving life without parole, and it’s clear that continuing to keep our prisons overcrowded is simply unsustainable.

We can safely change that. For all the reasons cited above, we need leaders of the Michigan House and Senate, Joe Tate and Winnie Brinks, respectively, to help make Michigan prisons safer and less crowded for prison staff and those incarcerated.

For those of us on the outside, it would save a lot of money and reunite mostly elderly incarcerated with their families. That makes for better neighborhoods and communities, a win for all of us.

Scott Tompkins is the board president for Before, During and After Incarceration. He has lived experience of the criminal justice system, having spent eighteen months in local jails and Michigan’s State prison system. Scott’s days are now filled with personally redemptive activities and doing work in the community to lessen other’s hardships and re-entry issues. Scott is also on the Board of Life After IncarcerationTransition and ReEntry in Ypsilanti and volunteers with ACLU of Michigan working on bail reform issues.

Wrong Place, Wrong Time

Early on Nov. 4, a British tourist made an alarming entrance at an internet cafe near his hotel in Pattaya, Thailand, Metro News reported. First, staff at the Freelancer Hotel heard groans and banging coming from his room -- which wasn't necessarily unusual in the red-light district. But then the 51-yearold man fell from a balcony and through the ceiling of the adjacent cafe, with just his naked legs showing to about 20 patrons below. As onlookers called for help, they realized the nude man was covered in excrement; he was taken to a hospital to sober up and address his minor injuries. Police checking out his hotel room found feces smeared on the floor: "We have some ideas about what he was doing in the room to make it so dirty but there was nothing illegal," officials said. "He will have to speak with the hotel to negotiate the bill."

It's Come to This

We all know that Amazon has EVERYTHING, which apparently now includes ready-to-assemble homes, the Mirror reported on Nov. 5. Content creator Nathan Graham ordered the compact home, which showed up in the signature smileyarrow box. He spent about $39,000, which included a bathroom, kitchen, windows and furniture. The metal home just needed to be unfolded and snapped into place to be livable. "This thing is so easy to build," Graham said. But another customer was less impressed -at only 5-feet-8, he said he could touch the ceilings. "I'm actually going to Airbnb it," he said. Just to short people?

Awwwww!

Perhaps it was wedding day jitters for father of the bride Neil Crossley, 60, People magazine reported on Nov. 5. As Crossley sped down the aisle in Yorkshire, England, and arrived at the altar, he realized something was missing: his daughter, the bride. "It was just pure miscommunication between my dad and the staff," Amy Totty, the bride, said. A staff member followed him down the aisle and guided him back to his daughter as the congregation and family had a good laugh. "It was a special moment none of us will forget," Totty said.

Bright Idea

Even the Trevi Fountain needs occasional repairs and upkeep, but what about all those coins tourists toss in to ensure a return trip to Rome? Someone had the bright idea to build a temporary pool to receive the coins, CNN reported on Nov. 5, but its position behind a tall fence covered in plastic is problematic -- many hopeful tossers simply miss. The fountain nets about $1.6 million a year, which is donated to a Catholic charity called Caritas. Italians aren't loving the temporary pool, either. One called it "The saddest thing I've seen in Italy in as long as I can remember." Work is expected to be complete in September 2025.

The Passing Parade

A resort in the Philippines has unveiled its new 15-room hotel, which businessman Ricardo Cano Gwapo Tan said he wanted to have a "wow factor that can really leave a footprint of admiration to the public," United Press International reported on Nov. 5. The building is shaped like a rooster -- in fact,

it's the world's largest building in the shape of a chicken, according to Guinness World Records, at 114 feet, 7 inches tall. Tan said the rooster's shape is a tribute to the local culture. "It looks calm and commanding, imposing and strong, which reflects the attitude of our people," he said.

Irony

William Hoesch, 71, filed a lawsuit on Oct. 24 against Columbia River (Oregon) Fire & Rescue, the New York Post reported. Hoesch alleges that in October 2022, as he rode his bike through Rainier, an ambulance slammed into him, breaking his nose and destroying his bike, then billed him nearly $2,000 for the ride to the hospital. The driver, who was moving at less than 10 mph, heard a thump and then rushed the biker to the hospital. Hoesch also incurred about $100,000 in medical expenses and suffers from permanent injuries such as "decreased range of motion" and "reduced grip." He is seeking almost $1 million for pain and suffering, along with coverage of his medical bills.

Ewwwww!

In October in Sydney, Australia, beachgoers were confronted with mysterious black balls that had washed up on the beaches, CNN reported. Authorities closed the beaches and assumed the balls were unrefined oil from a spill. Now, scientists at the University of New South Wales have discovered what exactly the balls are -- and it's not pretty. The orbs are mini "fatbergs" -- human feces, methamphetamine, human hair, fatty acids and food waste, among other gross ingredients. "They smell worse than anything you've ever smelt," said lead investigator Jon Beves. The EPA guesses that the bergs came from "a source that releases mixed waste," but "testing has not been able to confirm their exact origin." Bleh.

Recent Alarming Headline

Phi-le Dinh Nguyen, 46, was arrested on Oct. 23 after a violent attack on his Katy, Texas, neighbor, KHOU-TV reported. Jackie Gray said her surveillance camera picked up Nguyen pouring gasoline on the outside of her house and setting it on fire. "I came out, I confront him about it, he admitted it and then after he thinks my home was going to burn down ... he tried to come back, you know, with a sword to attack me," Gray said. Nguyen also allegedly threatened a Harris County deputy with the sword before he was tased. Other neighbors said they've had runins with Nguyen too. He was charged with arson and aggravated assault and held on $200,000 bond.

Latest Religious Message

Devotees at the Shri Banke Bihari Mandir temple in Uttar Pradesh rushed to collect water dripping from an elephant-shaped spout on the wall on Nov. 3, believing it to be Charan Amrit, or holy water from the feet of Lord Krishna. Alas, News18 reported, it was merely condensation from an air conditioning system in the temple. Some people caught the water in their hands or placed it on their heads. Even when confronted with the truth, devotees merely smiled and continued collecting the water.

Discover Northern Michigan’s Emerging Artists

Three painters to watch

By Hanna Lee-Kleb and Jillian Manning

Northern Michigan is known for its natural beauty—rolling dunes, expansive lakes, and towering forests. The region also nurtures a creative spirit that runs as deep as its landscapes. This artistic essence is captured at Higher Art Gallery, owned by Shanny Brooke, a dedicated painter and advocate for local talent.

For Brooke, art was an unexpected calling. “I’ve been painting for about 12 years, and I’m entirely self-taught,” Brooke shares. Initially drawn to figures and narratives, her journey has led her to explore deeper themes centered around women and symbolic imagery.

Despite the challenges of balancing her time between running Higher Art Gallery and her personal creative pursuits, Brooke finds ways to keep her artistic spirit alive.

“I often bring a canvas and paints to the gallery so I can work between visitors,” she explains. “It’s not ideal, but as a working artist, I don’t have the luxury of waiting for free days to paint.”

Brooke’s chosen medium, oil and cold wax, provides her with the layering and texture she loves. The addition of cold wax, an emulsified beeswax mixed with oil, gives her paintings a distinctive depth and dimensionality.

“It allows me to layer and scrape, revealing what’s underneath, which creates

a quality that people often find hard to pinpoint,” she says.

This medium has become part of Brooke’s unique voice—a voice she also uses to uplift emerging artists in the community. We asked Brooke to highlight several upand-coming artists Up North that local art lovers should have on their radar.

April South Olson

April South Olson works with encaustic—a technique involving molten, pigmented beeswax—bringing a unique, tactile element to her work. The medium is ancient, first used by the Greeks and Egyptians, yet Olson’s approach is fresh and modern.

“The texture of the beeswax fascinated me,” Olson says. “I remember as a kid blowing out candles and dipping my fingers in the melted wax. Encaustic offers that same tactile quality, but with endless creative possibilities.”

Olson’s pieces often explore themes inspired by northern Michigan’s landscapes. “When I started painting with encaustic, I lived close to Lake Michigan, and my work was filled with big, cloud-filled skies and low horizon lines,” she says.

Since moving to a wooded area, her attention has shifted to the trees, particularly the vibrant colors of fall. “Nature has always been a metaphor for life’s adventures, and as my surroundings change, so does my palette,” she adds.

April

South Olson, "Onto Spring"

Her journey into art was a gradual realization rather than a dramatic pivot. Olson had always loved art but initially considered more practical careers.

“In college, I realized that painting was my true passion,” she says. Since then, her encaustic pieces have gained traction, earning her spots in several galleries across Michigan.

“My work is like a journal, capturing moments when nature’s beauty leaves me in awe,” Olson says. “I find peace and sanctuary here, and I think that resonates in my paintings.”

Looking forward, Olson is focused on refining her technique, incorporating more sophisticated color palettes and intricate knife work.

Melonie Steffes

Melonie Steffes calls her art a “lifelong endeavor,” whether she’s painting in oils or watercolors or writing a song.

“I’m a really visual person, so I like expressing my thoughts and feelings … through visual art and music,” she says.

The natural world and the scenes of northern Michigan play a big part in Steffes’ work, but she points out that she almost always includes a “fantastical element” that sets her apart from the typical painter.

“I'm inspired by magical ideas that go hand in hand with the natural world. A lot of fun times, the writing and the visual stuff play off of each other. I’ll think of a phrase or a line that is a metaphor, but then I might see it literally and think, ‘That should be a painting.’”

Steffes’ inspiration may be fantastic, but her technique is more realistic, and she prefers to work with oils for their textural aspect. For example, she tells us of a recently completed painting that came about through a failed meditation session. When she couldn’t get her mind to quiet, she got an image in her head where “I was eating my own brain with chopsticks, and it totally made me laugh.” She then worked to translate that image into a tangible piece.

“I want to evoke something,” she stresses. “I don’t want someone to look at [a piece] and just kind of be like, ‘Oh, that’s nice.’ … The feelings might not always be comfortable, and I’m okay with that. I want people to be moved in some way. And I want them to provoke maybe a little deeper level of thought.”

That deeper level may mean reading into a piece in a whole new way.

“There’s a story there, and I leave this story up to the viewer that they should fill in and choose their own adventure,” Steffes says. “I want them to feel something—and maybe be a little transported.”

Mara Manning

Like Steffes, art has always been part of Mara Manning’s* language.

“I come from a family of theater people, artists, etc., and my mom was an art teacher,” she tells us. “[Art] has been my path always.”

Manning says she’s long held a love for oil painting, and she’s found her medium in oil and cold wax on wood panels. (The panels are custom made for her from clear Russian birch.)

“I really like the physicality of it and the fact that you can create actual texture on the surface of the panel,” she says. “I’m drawn to the fact that my body’s kind of involved in the painting process.”

When she starts a new piece, Manning doesn’t sit down with an exact plan but lets the process guide her. Eventually, as she builds up layers on the panel, she says she starts to “look for clues” to pull forward and “get some control over the surface.” Landscapes and cityscapes make up a lot of her work, but she says the starting point of inspiration is often Lake Michigan.

“I have a studio that looks right at Lake Michigan. … There’s a great big pine out there, and the lake is there, and the wind, and it’s different every day.”

Her pieces often have an abstract feel, with patterns repeating throughout the work to create a cohesive, multidimensional feel. Manning calls this an “overall rhythm,” which is part of the experience she wants to bring to the people who interact with her art.

“I hope that they’re finding their own journey in the work, not necessarily having to see what I specifically was after,” she explains. “[My paintings] are open ended. All the answers aren’t necessary. It’s not a realistic picture of a place, a thing, and so there’s a lot of room for personal wandering through it.”

See more from each of these artists at higherartgallery.com, aprilsoutholson.com, meloniesteffes.com, maramanningstudio.com.

*Editor’s Note: No relation to the writer.

The Challenges and Opportunities of the NoMi Art Scene

While there’s plenty of natural beauty to inspire artists, operating in northern Michigan presents its own set of challenges.

“In a larger city, there’s more competition and exposure, but here, we’re a smaller, seasonal community,” Brooke says. “It can be hard to find spaces for art that doesn’t conform to regional styles.”

Many galleries in the area showcase landscapes, often featuring iconic places like Sleeping Bear Dunes. Brooke aims to broaden this representation, allowing for diverse artistic voices that go beyond familiar scenery.

One of Brooke’s recent initiatives is a small works exhibit featuring original pieces under $75. “This is our way of making art accessible and encouraging people to consider original art as holiday gifts,” Brooke notes, explaining that the gallery’s annual show draws over 65 artists each year.

Brooke adds that she has exciting plans for the gallery, hinting at future collaborations with other local art spaces. “There’s a lot on the horizon, and I can’t wait to see how we can foster more collaboration and growth,” she shares.

Mara Manning, "Corn Hill Beach Cabins"

Mara Manning, "Coastal View"

Mara Manning, "Color Snap Shots"

Melonie Steffes, "In Bloom"

Melonie Steffes, "Exhaling Hornets"

Melonie Steffes, "Ward"

By Abby McKiernan

KEEPING TRADITIONS ALIVE

Fiber artist Kristina Nichols talks creations and connections

Weaving is an art that has bridged ancient techniques with modern innovations, offering a creative journey that reaches across cultures, history, and technology.

For Kristina Nichols, Interlochen artisan and founder of Just a Little Warped, weaving is a way to connect with this deep-rooted history while crafting pieces that merge functionality with beauty. Nichols reveals how the craft has the power to nurture personal connections, inspire community, and remind us of the joy of creating something thread by thread.

The Evolution of Weaving

Weaving holds a profound cultural significance that has carried through generations and across continents. Nearly every civilization has had its own distinct tradition—from the tapestries of medieval Europe to the rich, colorful textiles of the Andes and the intricate silk weaving of ancient China.

In many cultures, weaving is considered sacred, symbolizing creativity, resilience, and a connection to one’s heritage. Today, weaving has experienced a revival in the contemporary craft world, as artists and hobbyists alike rediscover its meditative qualities and the satisfaction of making

something by hand.

(In exploring the world of fiber arts, we uncovered its unexpected impact on the digital age—like inspiring the development of binary code through the Jacquard loom. Check out the next page to learn more!)

Nichols’ path into weaving was as surprising as it was transformative. Although she learned to knit and embroider with her grandmother, she wasn’t initially focused on weaving. As a high school student at Interlochen Center for the Arts, Nichols was initially focused on dance. However, her curiosity led her to a fiber arts class that would forever change her creative journey.

“I didn’t expect much, but the moment I started weaving, I was hooked,” Nichols recalls, describing it as a deeply meditative process that felt both grounding and freeing.

Today, Nichols balances her role as Vice Provost of Education Operations at Interlochen with her passion for weaving at home, where she works on three looms, including one as large as a queen bed. Her creations range from towels to intricate tapestries, all crafted with meticulous care and offered at select craft shows and events across Michigan.

A Craft of Precision and Patience

For Nichols, weaving isn’t just about the final product—it’s also about the carefully orchestrated process. Each piece

begins with selecting a weave structure and choosing colors for the warp and weft, the two thread sets that form the fabric. “There are hundreds of weave structures to choose from,” Nichols explains, highlighting the endless creative possibilities.

Setting up the loom is no quick task. It involves threading hundreds of warp threads onto the loom, passing each thread through both the reed and heddles before tying everything onto the back beam.

“You thread the loom, through the reed and heddles, and finally tie it all together,” she says. “Then, you’re ready to start weaving.”

The weaving itself comes more easily. “Weaving is so meditative; you really get into a flow,” Nichols says. This mindful process brings her joy and satisfaction, especially as she creates her favorite item—towels. “They’re beautiful, simple, and practical,” she says with a laugh, describing them as “total workhorses” in any home.

For Nichols, weaving is a way to reconnect with the tactile joys of handcrafting. In a world increasingly dominated by technology, the process offers a slower, more intentional form of expression.

“There’s something special about making something from scratch,” she says. “It makes you feel more human. At the end, you have something you can touch, hug, and hold. That’s what makes it so meaningful.”

Small-Scale Creations

Nichols’ shop, Just a Little Warped, is exclusively an online store, but her unique pieces can also be purchased in person at the various craft shows she attends. This year, she’ll show her work at the prestigious Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show from Nov. 14-17 and locally at Crooked Tree Arts Center’s November Merry Marketplace on Saturday, Nov. 23.

“I’m so passionate about people making things by hand, doing it thoughtfully, and supporting small-scale creators,” she says. “I have a petting zoo, and nothing bites! Please come in and touch and feel everything I’ve created.”

Nichols believes that weaving is not only an art to be appreciated but a skill that everyone can embrace. She encourages those interested in fiber arts not to be intimidated by its intricacies.

“Anyone can be great at weaving—you just never know who’s going to fall in love with it,” she says.

As weaving continues to shape new innovations, from digital designs to sustainable textiles, Nichols hopes it remains grounded in the values of handcrafting, resilience, and connection.

“The world needs both artists and art appreciators,” she reflects. “Together, we can keep these beautiful traditions alive.”

Where Art Meets Technology

Weaving may seem like a purely artisanal practice, but its structured nature has been pivotal in developing modern technology.

One of the most fascinating examples is the Jacquard loom, invented in 1804. This loom introduced punched cards to automate complex textile patterns, which inspired computer pioneers like Charles Babbage to use similar methods in early computational devices. The loom’s binary-like system of controlling thread patterns laid foundational principles for digital programming, proving how ancient craftsmanship can echo into the future and influence how we interact with technology today.

Weaving’s contribution to technology doesn’t end there. The same principles have shaped developments in robotics and materials science, where weaving’s structural techniques provide insights for creating durable and flexible materials in fields like aerospace and engineering.

The intricate patterns woven in textiles have even inspired algorithms for modern-day digital design and animation, demonstrating how this ancient craft has seeded advancements across multiple disciplines.

Inside the Mind of a Metalsmith

How nature, Michigan stones, and other local artists inspire Traverse City jewelry-maker Lucy Lowe

By Ellen Miller

Metalsmith Lucy Lowe takes inspiration from the natural beauty surrounding us, so it seems appropriate that the leaves are brilliantly colored when we drive out to her studio near Moomers on the west side of town.

Inside, light streams in from a window; a few select pinecones and rocks adorn the ledge. Around the edges of the converted pole barn, Lowe points out her desk, shelves filled with jewelry pieces and raw materials, and a sink with a foot pedal that she later uses to rinse stones she plans to use in her work.

Natural Transformation

It has taken more than a decade for Lowe to get to this place—literally and figuratively. Lowe began her journey to metalsmithing with a local art jeweler in Grand Forks, North Dakota, when she was inspired enough by what she saw that she asked if they needed seasonal help.

“I was both hooked and terrified,” she reflects.

Her journey has had its twists and turns of the intentional and organic variety; for example, at one point she took a welding class—but not one for jewelry! The class was designed as a refresher from marine welders, but she found it really fun.

As she learned, Lowe found comfort and stability in the concreteness of metalsmithing. As she explains, there are objective elements in each piece, like whether the seam is sautered properly or the stone stays in.

“You could see improvement and know you were improving, and it was something I could witness the progression of. You know when you get better—at a different skill, you don’t always notice it.”

After a move to Milwaukee, she enrolled as a student at a local school’s jewelry and metals department. Apprenticeships, including working at a family jewelry store,

came next. Eventually Lowe began crafting her own pieces, and in 2016 relocated to Traverse City and started branching out.

Elemental Work

Today, Lowe’s pieces include a wide range of jewelry from earrings to rings and necklaces. Her favorite, though, are rings.

“Rings are for the wearer,” she explains. “When I’m wearing a ring, I see it more, and I tend to interact with it more.”

Lowe primarily fabricates with sheet and wire. She works sequentially, building as she goes, describing this process as “building tiny structures.”

“There’s an exciting element to my process: any time I add something new, something old could fall,” she says. “I love to challenge myself. I love watching a piece come to life and the transformation that happens. That’s the whole thing I do here.”

When designing a piece, Lowe is highly influenced by her surroundings. In that

way, her style has evolved over the years. For example, in Milwaukee her design was largely inspired by architecture.

“There has always been an organic or abstract element to it, but my work felt more edgy in the city,” she says. Now in Traverse City, her work reflects nature. “Being near the lake has definitely influenced my work,” she adds. “Not literally in terms of a curve, but there is more movement in my work and it is influenced by how things come together in nature. It feels elemental.”

Many of Lowe’s pieces include lake stones or fossils; she is particularly drawn to lesser celebrated stones, like the Charlevoix stone, a type of fossilized coral. Lowe sources her own materials, collecting stones—“only as many as I will use”—and also purchases materials. (She loves to go to the gem show in Traverse City, usually held in September.)

No matter which elements she’s working with, Lowe is constantly trying to get to the

Photos courtesy of Lucy Lowe and Meg Simpson

essence of what she is creating, stripping back her materials to create something that feels effortless. There’s also an experimental element to her work as she often plays with proportions and materials.

Part of a Story

Working in the studio is usually a solo endeavor, but Lowe loves the relationships she has built through her craft.

she mentions it). Instagram has also helped her connect with other local artisans, as has attending select local markets.

Jewelry in Suttons Bay. “My work loves to be there,” Lowe says about her connection with the shop.

“I feel really lucky that often I don’t start with a vision for where I want to go with a piece. Following the babbling brook of life and seeing what feels right as it comes up has been a blessing. I think that’s what has allowed me to still have passion for what I do,” she says.

Most of Lowe’s pieces are one of a kind. Though Lowe does document her work in case she wants to replicate a piece, she rarely does.

“The relationships are one of the biggest things I’ve gained,” she tells us. “There are so many people up here, an incredibly generous group of people, and there’s enough space for all of us.”

When Lowe was new in town, a shop owner in Suttons Bay told her she needed to connect with Dana Fear, in Cedar, who makes kinetic jewelry. They met, and are now good friends. Lowe wears one of Fear’s rings (she demonstrates the movement element when

Lowe has a website and an Instagram, but unlike many artists who sell directly to consumers online, she prefers the experience of selling through galleries. “I like knowing the way something fits, the way something feels on my body,” she explains. “I want people to know how it feels,” and that experience is hard to replicate digitally.

While she participates in the occasional market, she primarily sells her work through a partnership with Gold and Jaye

And once a piece has been purchased, Lowe loves to see how it takes on a new life and a new meaning.

“I know I made it, but once it becomes the person’s who wears it, it’s totally theirs. It becomes part of their story that they are using to illustrate their own experience and their own life.”

Learn more at lucylowejewelry.square.site. You can find her jewelry at Gold and Jaye Jewelry in Suttons Bay.

The Magical World of Holiday Art Markets

By Ross Boissoneau

With Halloween in the rearview, it’s officially the holiday season, and stores have already been stocking their shelves with holiday décor and plenty of toys, clothes, electronics, and more.

It’s not just the retailers that are showcasing gift possibilities. The church bazaars, arts centers, and merry maker marketplaces across the region host jewelers, painters, crafters, and artisans of all sorts. Many of these holiday markets are one-dayonly affairs, while others last for weeks.

Shop and Sip

Some markets are small, with a handful of vendors taking over the local town hall. Then there’s the sprawling Traverse City Shop and Sip (Nov. 23), which features over 100 merchants in Governors’ Hall at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Owner and coordinator Belinda Belanger says the event attracts shoppers and artisans from across the area, downstate, the U.P., even out-of-state.

“We really focus on the event,” says Belanger. “It’s not just walk through, shop, then leave. We have live music, bars, food.” Shop and Sip is a ticketed event: $5 for general admission and $15 for VIP tickets. The latter allows shopping for an hour before the event is open to everyone, providing first choice on handmade items and happy hour drink specials. Some vendors will also offer special discounts.

Metalsmith and jeweler Alaina Clarke

11 markets and shows to put on your calendar

makes the trip up to the Traverse City Shop and Sip from Ferndale. She says she makes about 80 percent of her income from shows such as this, which dovetails with her love of meeting new friends and greeting old ones during the holidays.

“I get to tell the customers the story of each piece. When they wear it, they get to create their own story,” she says.

Belanger says creating such a show takes a lot of planning. That involves making the layout work by keeping vendors with similar products separated and putting together those that want to be close to one another (“I have three from Kalamazoo who want to all be together,” she says), keeping track of who’s coming and who’s not, and creating a great experience for shoppers. “It’s a big puzzle,” Belanger says.

And a puzzle that both vendors and shoppers enjoy. “I have people come from Grand Rapids, the east side of the state, even out of state. Some make it a girls’ weekend and stay at the Resort and go shopping,” says Belanger.

Extended Markets

The Crooked Tree Arts Centers offer artists exposure for an extended time. The Holiday Bazaar exhibit in Petoskey runs Nov. 15 - Dec. 19, while its Traverse City counterpart, Merry Marketplace, takes place Nov. 9 - Dec. 14. Both include special events: Holiday Swirl at CTAC-Petoskey on Dec. 5 runs 5:30-7pm and features food, drinks and live music. Tickets are $35, $30 for members. CTAC-Traverse City features Pop Up Art Market events Nov. 23 and Dec.

7, highlighting 13 artists at each event, along with local students.

Alissa Seelmann-Rutkofske, gallery coordinator at Crooked Tree Arts Center in Petoskey, says events such as these provide a significant slice of the year’s profits for the vendors.

“Artist markets provide a targeted platform for independent artists to have their work seen by a larger audience than they might reach on their own. Visibility is so critical to the success of artists—the more people who become aware of an artist’s work, the better,” she says.

Sales vary by vendor and shopper interests, though overall Seelmann-Rutkofsk says the month-long event represents about 60 percent of the gallery’s sales.

These events also allow for vendors and buyers to connect on a personal level.

“They provide a chance for the artist to showcase and sell their handmade goods while receiving immediate feedback on their work,” says Kristi Wodek, vice president of Crooked Tree Arts Center in Traverse City. “Engaging in these markets also helps artists build relationships with buyers, often leading to repeat sales and word-of-mouth promotion.”

Kim Stern, who sells a variety of inscribed ceramic coasters as NorthCoastern, says she gets more personal responses at such markets than through her website and Etsy. She will be at numerous markets throughout the holiday season. “You get more exposure at markets. I enjoy the in-person shoppers. You make new friends, see people you

haven’t seen in a while,” she says.

Pottery maker Clay Maas will be part of the Pop Up show at Crooked Tree Traverse City. He says the marketplace is one of a few places he sells his work. He only does a couple shows each year, relying on income from his ceramics education studio ClaySpace TC, which offers classes, private lessons, and workshops for both children and adults.

“I get to sell and show,” Maas says. “What makes this enjoyable is it’s well done. The people in the show are exceptional at what they do.” Given the duration of the CTAC markets, the artists are able to change and replenish the work they have on display throughout the time it is open.

The various handmade articles vary from show to show. “This year, we have a lot of ceramics and jewelry represented, which are always popular gift items, but we also have things like lamps, winter knits, craft kits, bath and body products,” says Seelmann-Rutkofske.

But wait, there’s more: You may find books by local authors, clothing and textiles, dolls, signs, even tasty treats. Andria Bufka of Red Gate Farm will be selling her pies, pastries, and jams at the Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace Nov. 29 and 30 at the Glen Arbor Town Hall.

While she sells her baked goods along with produce from her garden at her roadside stand in the summer, she says the holiday market provides an outlet at a time when that business is not as steady. It also provides an opportunity to enjoy the season. “I’ve got a lot of cute holiday décor. I make it festive,” she says.

A Holiday Market Sampler

While we don’t have room to feature all the holiday markets, and some such as the Dennos Museum’s Holiday Artist Market and Long Lake Elementary School Craft Show have passed, here is a sampling. Keep an eye on the Northern Express calendar for a more complete list.

Crooked Tree Merry Marketplace

Nov. 9 - Dec. 14, Tuesday-Friday 11am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. 322 Sixth Street, Traverse City. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traverse-city/merrymarketplace-2024

Crooked Tree Holiday Bazaar (and Holiday Swirl)

Nov. 15-Dec. 19, Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm. 461 E. Mitchell St., Petoskey. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey/holiday-swirl-2024

Charlevoix Circle mARkeT

Nov. 15 - Dec. 28, 11am-4pm daily, 109 Clinton Street, Charlevoix. More than 30 local artists, crafters and makers. charlevoixcircle.org/circle-market

Jordan River Arts Council Holiday Market

Nov. 17 - Dec. 21, 12:30-4:30pm daily. Shop early Nov. 16, with gifts, refreshments, and beverages, admittance via monetary donation. Jordan River Arts Council, 301 Main St., East Jordan. jordanriverarts.com/2024-events/holiday-market

Traverse City Shop and Sip

Nov. 23, 2-7pm. (VIP 1-2pm), Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. traversecityshopandsip.com

Brother Dan’s Handmade Holiday Craft Show

Nov. 23, 9am-4pm, Emmet County Fairgrounds, 1129 Charlevoix Avenue, Petoskey. Numerous local vendors featuring handmade items. Admission ($2 or a non-perishable food item) and concession sales benefit Brother Dan’s Food Pantry. tinyurl.com/3knfkwhc

Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace

Nov. 29, 6:30-8pm, Nov. 30, 10am-4pm. Glen Arbor Town Hall. Dozens of artisans and crafters. glenarbortownship.com/glen-arbor-holiday-marketplace

Empire Artisan Marketplace

Nov. 30, 10am-4pm, Empire Town Hall. Artisans and crafters plus book sale and vintage jewelry across the street at the Glen Lake Library. visitglenarbor.com/event/ empire-artisan-marketplace-24

The Christmas Shop Vendor & Craft Show

Dec. 1, 10am-4pm, Ellison Place, Gaylord. Over 100 unique vendors and crafters, plus sip & shop mimosa bar. gaylordmichigan.net/event/christmas-shoppingextravaganza-the-ellison-place

Sip & Shop, Boyne City

Dec. 6, 5-8pm at the pavilion downtown. Food trucks, vendors with wine or cocktails, arts and crafts night, and decorating the pavilion. Part of the Boyne City Farmers Market. boynecitymainstreet.com/event/sip-shop-holiday-bazaar-2/ Holiday Craft Show and Bazaar

Dec. 8, 9am-3pm, Manistee. Part of the annual Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend. Crafts and gifts from local artisans at Wagoner Senior Center, 260 St. Mary’s Parkway. manisteesleighbellparade.com/event-schedule

WEDNESDAYS: D.A.T.E. NIGHT

Free Dessert or Appetizer w/purchase of Two Entrees (Begins 11/29)

THURSDAYS: PASTA NIGHT!

2 pasta dinners & a bottle of wine for $62

open at 5:00pm!

WEDNESDAYS:

THURSDAYS: PASTA NIGHT!

Meet the Artists: Twisted Fish Gallery

Seven creators share their work

By Geri Dietze

After 24 years, Elk Rapids’ Twisted Fish Gallery remains a magnet for collectors and art aficionados thanks to its cohort of mostly regional fine artists producing exceptional paintings, sculpture, mosaics, ceramics, jewelry, furniture, and more, in a range of styles and price points.

Twisted Fish was the dream of retired Chicagoans Robert and Charlotte Streit, who purchased the historical two-acre site in 2000. These enthusiastic collectors assembled a cohort of 50-plus fine artists; some have been with the gallery for years, some since its beginning, but there are

always newer additions in the lineup as well.

“We welcome a few select artists each season,” explains daughter and current manager Liz Streit, mostly those “offering a medium or expression not currently found [here.]”

Streit says her parents “did not set out to exclusively represent Michigan artists,” but they “realized [all the] talent just outside their door” and “decided to work with the best of the best in the region.” (Streit’s family “is filled with artists, singers, writers, and performers.” Her mother was a noted soprano, and her accountant father “put down his calculator and [took up] painting” at age 80.)

The namesake Twisted Fish was created by Illinois sculptor and filmmaker, Daniel Johnson. It spent time at Chicago’s Navy Pier as part of a national sculptural exhibit before the Streits purchased it and had Johnson reconstruct it on site.

The Main Gallery is in the red farmhouse, where interior spaces allow for viewing pieces as one would see them in one’s own home. The adjacent Cottage Gallery, circa 1850s, and said to be one of the first farms in Elk Rapids, displays more art, with space for exhibits and workshops. Its full working kitchen makes it suitable for events. “We are cooking up some fun,” says Streit.

Twisted Fish is known for its largescale canvases, and its “Take & Try” option allows collectors to bring a work to the home or office for a day or two to see how it works in the space. Consultations, delivery, and help with installation are available.

Meanwhile, the four-season sculpture garden offers beautiful plantings and over 60 sculptures in sizes small and large, made of steel, bronze, glass, concrete, ceramic, or found objects. Representations are figurative to abstract, serious to whimsical, and all are for sale.

Now, let’s meet some of those artists. (And note: There are dozens more whose work graces the walls, floors, and

Charles Murphy: Renaissance Man Murphy transitions easily from one genre and style to another. Oils, watercolors, and acrylics; realism and impressionism; local landscapes and illustrations; large abstract oils and postage stamp-size miniatures. Look for the precision of a Wyeth and gorgeous clouds in homage to Eric Sloan, “America’s greatest cloud artist.” Murphy’s comprehensive understanding makes him a particularly effective teacher, both here and worldwide. “Process is a big thing with me,” he says. (His Twisted Fish workshops are a must.)

Lindy Bishop: Art Life Bishop is a “contemporary expressionist” responding to the “sensibility of a movement exploring…rural…subject matter, and [its] humanity.” She captures light and energy through rich color and broad, assertive brush strokes. Influences include Wayne Thiebaud and David Hockney for “their unusual color choices” and “very fresh styles,” and the Canadian Group of Seven for their depictions of nature. But her biggest influence was from teacher, LarsBirger Sponberg, Swedish-born Chicagoan who developed his Midwestern regionalist style while a student at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. (Sponberg was a longtime exhibitor at Charlevoix’s highly respected Waterfront Art Fair.)

Michelle Sider: From Darkness to Light Fine arts and clinical psychology come together in these stunning glass “paintings,” as an expression of the world—the dark and the light, the fragments “put back together in a beautiful way.” Sider’s work is meant to “push the limits between detailed realism and abstract designs,” using a variety of glass and techniques. There’s Italian smalti, for example, opaque molten glass hand cut by Italian artisans, and Japanese Kintsugi, or “join with gold,” the traditional repair of broken pottery with gold, thereby increasing its beauty. In a break from tradition, Sider begins each project with a fully realized painting of the subject. “[I’ve] never come across another mosaic artist who uses the method.”

Doug Melvin: One Man’s Junk is Another Man’s Treasure

Before joining Twisted Fish, Melvin influenced a generation of students in the art department of Petoskey’s North Central Michigan College. But it was his son who introduced the abstract painter to the possibilities in “found object” sculpture as they cleaned debris from their Boyne City

farm. One of his latest is the horse Defiance: Spirit of Ukraine II, standing resolute, at eight feet tall, with palpable strength. His mare and offspring, on the other hand, gently evokes the bond of motherhood. Melvin’s imposing bull sculpture elicited a different reaction when it occupied Boyne City’s waterfront park: The anatomically correct creature was discovered wearing underpants, thanks to some local wag. (Melvin thought it “hilarious.”) Today it resides on a Traverse area farmstead, as nature intended, sans-culotte.

Kimberly Bazemore: Design + Nature

“[I] was never exposed to so much beauty…until I moved to northern Michigan,” Kim Bazemore says. That was 1988, when she left Atlanta for Glen Arbor’s Becky Thatcher Design. The move sparked her own career as a self-taught metalsmith. “I found some beach glass and made some jewelry, and the idea was born,” she says. “I love the colors, [and] the… glass/metal [contrast].” Other materials include old coins, beach stones, Leland Blue and Petoskey stones, driftwood, and felted wool from local alpaca and llama. Most of her work is in sterling silver, some in brass. Beyond jewelry, look for interesting ornaments and objet d’art. A welding studio is in the works, allowing a return to bigger pieces.

Anne Crouter: To the Moon, Alice! (Seriously.)

A prodigious child talent, Crouter drew subject matter from the family farm before branching out through world travels. A master of nontraditional watercolor technique—more pigment, less water—and acrylic, her reputation is vast, and now five of her exquisitely executed works will be included in the Lunar Codex, a moonbased archive of over 30,000 works of art from creators in 157 countries using NanoFiche technology. The archive will last for hundreds of thousands of years, allowing future moon travelers access to our culture using a magnifying glass. Heady company, indeed. Learn more at lunarcodex.com/story.

Dick Davis: The Peace & Love Business Model

Dick Davis began with a Marquette leather shop and gallery in the early 1970s, “but no one had any money,” says wife Marti. Prospects improved upon opening North Country Ways on Union St. in Traverse City, but serious careers took them to Chicago before retiring here full time. Davis’ unorthodox style—homemade tools, for example—came from being an apprentice

“smalls,” functional and decorative items including leather bracelets, forged vases,

responding to the “sensibility of a movement exploring…rural…subject matter, and [its]

Defiance: , standing resolute, at eight feet tall, with palpable strength. His mare and offspring, on the other hand, gently evokes the bond of motherhood. Melvin’s imposing bull sculpture elicited a different reaction when it occupied Boyne City’s waterfront park: The anatomically correct creature was discovered wearing underpants, thanks to some local wag. (Melvin thought it “hilarious.”) Today it resides on a Traverse area farmstead, as

Dec. 12-14 • 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 14 & 15 • 2 p.m.

Corson Auditorium

“[I] was never exposed to so much beauty…until I moved to northern Michigan,” Kim Bazemore says. That was 1988, when she left Atlanta for Glen Arbor’s Becky Thatcher Design. The move sparked her own career as a self-taught metalsmith. “I found some beach glass and made some jewelry, and the idea was born,” glass/metal [contrast].” Other materials include old coins, beach stones, Leland Blue and Petoskey stones, driftwood, and felted wool from local alpaca and llama. Most of her work is in sterling silver, some in brass. Beyond jewelry, look for interesting ornaments and objet d’art. A welding studio is in the works, allowing a

A prodigious child talent, Crouter drew subject matter from the family farm before branching out through world travels. A master of nontraditional watercolor technique—more pigment, less water—and acrylic, her reputation is vast, and now five of her exquisitely executed works will be based archive of over 30,000 works of art from creators in 157 countries using technology. The archive will last for hundreds of thousands of years, allowing future moon travelers access to our culture using a magnifying glass. Heady company, indeed. Learn more at

Dick Davis began with a Marquette leather shop and gallery in the early 1970s, “but no one had any money,” says wife Marti. Prospects improved upon opening North Country Ways on Union St. in Traverse City, but serious careers took them to Chicago before retiring here full time. Davis’ unorthodox style—homemade tools, for example—came from being an apprentice

to Traverse City blacksmith Dan Nickels and a session at the New England School of Metalwork. He creates distinctive furniture with trademark curving metal detail— inspired by working with the challenging sycamore—and both members of the Davis family produce their hugely popular line of

Art Year-Round

“smalls,” functional and decorative items including leather bracelets, forged vases, knives, small sculptures, and yard art.

Visit Twisted Fish Gallery at 10443 S. Bay Shore Dr., Elk Rapids. (231) 264-0123; twistedfishgallery.com

The gallery stays busy throughout the year. Check out “PAIRINGS,” a scaleddown show usually featuring a painter and a sculptor; also look for demonstrations, art workshops, meet-the-artist events, and collabs between artist and chef or writer. In the summer, enjoy the “Music Under the Pines” summer concert series (BYO lawn chairs and a picnic). Art Beat is the biannual gallery tour with Elk Rapids galleries. Twisted Fish also hosts Crooked Tree’s Paint Grand Traverse Plein Air Painters. On- and off-site collaborations include Higher Art gallery in TC; Elk Rapids Art & Connection; and Mari Vineyards among others. The gallery also sponsors the Traverse City Philharmonic’s “Home for the Holidays” concert on Dec. 22, held at Interlochen’s Corson Auditorium.

by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Choreography by Joseph Morrissey Music performed by Arts Academy Orchestra

NOVEMBER

Saturday

TOY TOWN TOY TROT

5K: 9am, starts behind Toy Town, Cadillac. Toy Town partners with the Salvation Army of Cadillac for this event that will raise money for Toys for Tots of Wexford & Missaukee counties. $30-$35. toytowncadillac.com/events

HEALTH & WELLNESS: BE HEALTHY, BE ACTIVE FAMILY COOKING CLASS: 10-11am, Interlochen Public Library. Learn a few techniques, & then participants can cook the whole recipe from start to finish. This free class includes supplemental materials for living your best life. Class size is limited to 6 families per class. Registration required: 231-276-6767. ----------------------

KAIR FESTIVAL OF TREES: 10am-7pm, Northland Foods Plaza, Kalkaska. Nov. 8-16. Proceeds donated to KAIR’s Food Pantry. Find ‘Kalkaska Festival of Trees’ on Facebook. Free admission.

NATURE DRAWING & JOURNALING: 10am, Glen Lake Community Library, Empire. Explore the craft of nature observation with artist, educator & environmentalist Penny Krebiehl. The session will begin with a recorded lecture from the recent Wild Wonder Conference: Creative Ways to Begin a Page by Mattais Lanas. The group will then venture out to the Pyramid Point trailhead for hiking & sketching. Bring your notepad, pens/pencils, binoculars, water bottle, etc., & dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Free. glenlakelibrary.net/events

TC WEST SENIOR HIGH ART & CRAFT SHOW: 10am-3pm, TC West Senior High. Numerous vendors selling goods in paper, knit, woodwork, jewelry, food, & much more. Free admission.

DEER WIDOWS WEEKEND: 11am-3pm, The Village at GT Commons, TC. Events include a two-day indoor craft & vendor show in Kirkbride Hall. The first 250 through the doors each day will receive a logo bag, free tunnel tour & a $5 mimosa coupon. thevillagetc.com/deer-widows-weekend-3-2-2-2

PETOSKEY’S FALL RESTAURANT WEEK: Nov. 8-17. Participating restaurants in & around Petoskey will be setting their own menus & deals. For a list of participating restaurants, visit web site. petoskeychamber. com/petoskey-restaurant-week

TC BEER WEEK: Nov. 8-16. Check out the TC brew scene by taking a self-guided tour of local breweries & restaurants. Track your tour in the passport by checking in to the places you go & you’ll be eligible to win prizes. For more info visit web site. traversecity.com/tcbw/beer-week-ale-trail

ANNUAL SMALL WORKS HOLIDAY

SHOW: Noon-3pm, Higher Art Gallery, TC. An Open House will be held to kick off the Annual Small Works show. This year it includes over 200 post card size original works of art by over 65 artists plus the popular art trees which are adorned with hundreds of handmade ornaments & small works of art. The show runs through the holiday season. Free. higherartgallery.com

ENCANTO SCREENING - COLLECTIVE SELF CINEMA SERIES: 1pm, Dennos Museum Center, Milliken Auditorium, NMC, TC. Rated PG. A Colombian teenage girl has to face the frustration of being the only member of her family without magical powers. Enjoy the movie & take home guided mental health resources. For a deeper experience, sign up with Care-O-Van for guided sessions with professionals after the film. $0 - $5. events. humanitix.com/collective-self-cinema

Sharing a background in traditional Irish and Scottish music, violinist Maura Shawn Scanlin and guitarist Conor Hearn unite to form Rakish. Heading to The Cheboygan Opera House, Sat., Nov. 23 at 7pm, this duo plays a concert to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Michigan Chapter. Maura is a two-time U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion and a winner of the Glenfiddich Competition. Conor is native to the Irish music communities of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD, and lives in Boston where he plays guitar for various traditional music acts and bands. Tickets: $10-$40. theoperahouse.org

BARN DANCE: 2-4pm, Old Car Museum, 5774 Supply Rd., TC. Barn dancing has a caller & band, yet is simpler than square dancing. Refreshments provided. Register. Free. traverseindivisible.org/events

LADIES’ NIGHT OUT: 4:30-7:30pm, Harbor Springs. Get your passport at any open business to make purchases & get passports initialed. Make a wish list for your loved ones. Turn in your passport at the end of the evening & join in for the postevening celebration at the Pier Restaurant; doors open at 7pm; raffle drawing at 8pm. Register. harborspringschamber.com/ events/details/ladies-night-out-2024

SUPERIOR ICE SHOWDOWN: TRAVERSE CITY TAKEOVER: 6:07pm, Centre ICE Arena, TC. Ferris State Hockey will face Lake Superior State in a Central Collegiate Hockey Association battle, marking the first time college hockey has been played in Traverse City. $20-$30 + fees. centreice.org

LITTLE TRAVERSE CIVIC THEATRE PRESENTS STEPHEN KING’S “MISERY”: 7pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Petoskey. This intense show will be a rollercoaster of emotions & a perfect end to spooky season. $20. app.arts-people.com/ index.php?ticketing=ltct

NORTHERN MICHIGAN CHORALE PRESENTS: “THROUGH THE YEARS IN SONG”: 7pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. Tickets at the door, from a Chorale member, or by calling: 231-4392610. $15 adults, $12 seniors & students, free for 10 & under. --------------------

PAXTON-SPANGLER BAND: 7pm, The Bay Theatre, Suttons Bay. Detroit jazz vet-

erans John Tbone Paxton & RJ Spangler bring their 5 piece band & perform music from Louis Jordan to Duke Ellington & on to New Orleans. $20. thebaytheatre.com - -

SEUSSICAL: 7pm, TC Central High School. TC Central Music Department presents their fall musical. Written by Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty, Seussical is a wacky musical that tells a story of friendship, loyalty, & love. It runs from Nov. 15-24. The auditorium parking lot is closed. Allow extra time to walk from alternative parking lots. See web site for more info. $20-$25 per ticket. TCAPS.booktix.com

“INTO THE WOODS”: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Corson Auditorium. Classic Brothers Grimm stories collide in James Lapine & Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning musical. Directed by Justin Lee Miller & performed by the Arts Academy Theatre Division as a 1980s-inspired adventure. $19-$38. interlochen.org

“SISTER ACT”: 7:30pm, The Cheboygan Opera House. Presented by the Northland Players. This is a musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film. $10-$20. theoperahouse.org

KEN LUDWIG’S “LEND ME A SOPRANO”: 7:30pm, Old Town Playhouse, TC. Slamming doors, mistaken identity, a shirtless man & a little opera singing! It’s 1934, & Lucille Wiley, manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is ready to welcome world-class soprano Elena Firenzi. Elena arrives late, & it remains to be seen whether the mousy assistant Jo can save the day. *Contains adult situations & language. Adults: $33; youth under 18: $20. oldtownplayhouse.com/performances/ mainstage/lend-me-a-soprano.html

THE INSIDERS: TOM PETTY WILDFLOWERS: 7:30pm, City Opera House, TC. The premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience. Featuring six veteran musicians & decades of combined stage & touring experience. $20-$35. cityoperahouse.org/node/598

AUSTRALIA’S THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER: 8-9:30pm, Little River Casino Resort, Manistee. “Golden tans, smile for miles, & chiseled bodies.” $25-$45. lrcr. com/event/thunder-down-under-0

Sunday

DEER WIDOWS WEEKEND: (See Sat., Nov. 16, except today’s time is from 10am-2pm.)

PETOSKEY’S FALL RESTAURANT WEEK: (See Sat., Nov. 16)

HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE: 1pm, The Garden Theater, Frankfort. Free. gardentheater.org/harry-potterfilm-series

“INTO THE WOODS”: (See Sat., Nov. 16, except today’s time is 2pm.)

BAD TREATIES & BROKEN PROMISES: 2pm, Brilliant Books, TC. TC author Robert Downes will offer a slide talk on the Native Americans of Michigan & the fight for their homeland. Downes is the author of “Raw Deal - The Indians of the Midwest and the Theft of Native Lands.” He will discuss the six major treaties forced on Michigan’s Indians & the historic events leading up to their struggle. Free. robertdownes.com

KEN LUDWIG’S “LEND ME A SOPRANO”: (See Sat., Nov. 16, except today’s time is 2pm.)

SEUSSICAL: (See Sat., Nov. 16, except today’s time is 2pm.)

NORTHERN MICHIGAN CHORALE PRESENTS: “THROUGH THE YEARS IN SONG”: (See Sat., Nov. 16, except today’s time is 3pm.)

INAUGURAL CONCERT OF THE BENZONIA AREA COMMUNITY EMERGENCY FUND: 4-6pm, Mills Community House, upper level, Benzonia. Mary Sue Wilkinson, Patrick Niemisto, & Chris Skellenger of WSN will perform a free community concert. Throughout the performance a bucket will be passed to collect free will offerings & donations. millscommhouse.org/benzoniaarea-community-emergency-fund.html ----------------------

LAS MIGAS: SPANISH FLAMENCO: 7pm, The Cheboygan Opera House. Enjoy Latin Grammy-winning Spanish flamenco group Las Migas. $10-$40. ci.ovationtix. com/36618/production/1214930?performa nceId=11530427

monday

TWO SPIRIT HISTORY & COMMUNITY: Noon1:30pm, NCMC Library, Petoskey. With artist & advocate Becca Lynn. This gathering is designed to foster a safe & supportive environment for Two Spirit individuals, LGBTQ+ community members, & allies. RSVP. ncmich.libcal. com/event/13377930

AAUW SPEAKER MEETING: KAREN

SEGAL: 6pm, Dennos Museum Center, Janis Room, NMC, TC. Karen has had a 20-year career with the U.S. Dept. of State, first as an intelligence analyst of Soviet Af-

fairs & then as a diplomat in Russia where she & her husband Jack opened the first U.S. diplomatic mission in Central Russia. She also served in Geneva at the Strategic Arms Reduction Negotiations. She is an author, has worked locally with IAF, & coordinates the Afghan Migrant Ministry Project. She will explore her work as a female in a male dominated arena, its challenges, & its rewards. Free. traversecityarea-mi.aauw.net

GRIEF GROUP: 6-7pm, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, library, TC. Meets the third Mon. of each month. Anyone who is grieving any kind of loss is welcome to attend. Meetings are led by ELCA Synodically Authorized Minister Peggy Burns. 231-3926913. Free. bethlehemtc.org/griefgroup

tuesday

CWIB LUNCHEON: 11:30am-1pm, Odawa Hotel, Petoskey. A panel discussion with Women Leaders of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, in celebration & recognition of Native American Heritage Month. Featuring Tribal Chairperson Regina Gasco as well as Winnay Wemigwase of the Tribal Historic Preservation Office & Billi Jo Head, the new Department of Commerce director. $35-$45. petoskeychamber.com/events/details/cwib-luncheon-november-19-2024-32971

INTERNATIONAL LECTURE SERIES: 1pm. Watch via Zoom at NCMC, Library Conference Center, Petoskey. “Hezbollah: Resistance, Politics or Proxy?” Presented by NCMC’s Global Studies Program & The International Committee. Featuring Javier Guirado-Alonso, Ph.D. ncmclifelonglearning.com/event-5933025

TECH TUESDAY: MEDIA & INFO LITERACY: 2pm, Leland Township Public Library. Learn to navigate online information, evaluate sources, & understand media influence. This hands-on session covers fact-checking, identifying misinformation, & using digital tools responsibly. Free. lelandlibrary.org

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PWR! MOVES: MICHIGAN PARKINSON FOUNDATION EXERCISE CLASS: 4pm, Traverse Area District Library, Thirlby Room, TC. An hour long exercise class based on the PWR! moves for people with or suspected Parkinson’s Disease & their caregivers. The class will be run by a PWR! certified physical therapist. Free.

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TCNEWTECH PITCH COMPETITION: 4:30-7:30pm, City Opera House, TC. Featuring women entrepreneurs. Explore new ideas & connections while supporting & celebrating female founders. Reserve your spot. Free. eventbrite.com/e/ tcnewtech-pitch-competition-tickets1022846159397?aff=oddtdtcreator

HOLIDAY FOOD PREPARATION: 6pm, Glen Lake Community Library, Empire. Join Kara Lynch of the MSU Extension Food Safety Team & learn how to make jams, salsa & other delicacies in your own kitchen. Call 231.326.5361 in advance to register. glenlakelibrary.net

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NOVELEMBER: 6-8pm, Kingsley Branch Library. Every Tues. in Nov., write your novel! There will be guest speakers, weekly writing prompts, & refreshments. Bring your notebook or laptop. For ages 15+. Find ‘Novelember Write-in’ on Facebook. Free.

INDIGENOUS MOVIE TUESDAY: 6:30pm, NCMC Library, Petoskey. Featuring “Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World.” Snacks & drinks provided. Bring your own seat - lawn chair, blanket, etc.

A TREK ACROSS MICHIGAN’S UP: 7pm, Boardman River Nature Center, TC. Join NCTA Grand Traverse Chapter’s monthly meeting to hear about Dewey Painter’s 2021 NCT trek across Michigan’s UP. Free. meetup.com/grand-traverse-chapter-northcountry-trail-association/events/304525478

QUEER TALES BOOK CLUB: 7pm, Traverse Area District Library, Nelson Room, TC. Chat about books that are by &/or about LGBTQIA+ people. Reading is not required, & everyone is welcome. Held the third Tues. of the month. This month’s book is “The Yards Between Us” by R.K. Russell, available through TADL, MeLCat, Libby, & Hoopla. Free. tadl.org/event/queer-talesbook-club-12124

wednesday

CHILLIN’ WITH THE CHAMBER: 4-6pm, Harbor Springs Area Chamber office, 118 E. Main St., Harbor Springs. Find out about the sponsor’s business & what’s happening around town. Free.

DEATH CLUB MONTHLY MEET-UP:

6-7:30pm, GT Commons, Building 50, Suite 212, TC. Join this informal meet-up for open, candid discussions about grief, the afterlife, & even some dark humor. It’s about creating a safe environment to explore these oftentaboo topics. Free. earthlyafter.com

PNN SUPPORT GROUP: 6:30pm, Foster Family-Munson Healthcare Community Center, TC. The Parkinson’s Network North Evening Support Group will meet. All persons with Parkinson’s & their care partners are invited to join to explore ways to live well with PD. Kaitlin Malaski, Mindset Physical Therapy, & John Zimmerman will facilitate the group. More info: www.pnntc. org or pnntcmi@gmail.com. Free. ParkinsonsNetworkNorth.org

LOST GIRL BY KIMBERLY BELFLOWER: 7:30pm, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Harvey Theatre. Find out what happened to Wendy Darling after the events of Peter Pan. Presented by director Christine Marie Brown & the Arts Academy Theatre Division, enjoy a coming-of-age tale about heartbreak, lasting loss, & healing from your first love. Free. interlochen.org

TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE LUMINARY WALK: 5:30-7pm, Leelanau T.A.R.T. Trail, between Farm Club & Fouch Road trailhead. The half-mile pathway will be lined with glowing luminary bags featuring the names of those being honored. Remember & honor all trans, gender diverse, intersex, & non-binary people who’ve lost their lives during the past year due to anti-transgender violence. upnorthpride.com

thursday

“THE [M] FACTORSHREDDING THE SILENCE ON MENOPAUSE”: 5pm, RegenCen, 3529 Front St., TC. This documentary film confronts the neglected crisis of menopause; challenges societal & medical shortcoming; & advocates for a revolutionary approach to women’s health in America. Following the screening, a Q&A session will feature Dr. Gustav Lo, a renowned expert in regenerative medicine & founder of RegenCen. Dr. Lo will delve into the film’s insights & discuss the latest advancements in menopause medicine. Text 231-347-7395 to RSVP. regencen.com/events

POETS’ NIGHT OUT: 5pm, Espresso Bay, downtown TC. Live poetry reading held the third Thurs. of the month. TADL will be there to sign you up for a library card, have a selection of poetry books available for checkout. 932-8502. Free. tadl.org/event/poets-nightout-espresso-bay-17302

FREE PLAY: FREE OPEN-STUDIO FOR ADULTS: 5:30-7:30pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Petoskey. Playful explorations of art materials & ideas in a relaxed, supportive, & social environment. Register. crookedtree.org/events/petoskey

CANDLELIGHT: FEATURING VIVALDI’S FOUR SEASONS & MORE: Kirkbride Hall at GT Commons, TC. Enjoy this live, multisensory musical experience under the gentle glow of candlelight with the Listeso String Quartet. Held at 6:15pm & 8:30pm. $35-$51.50. feverup.com/m/196400

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NWS: HARNESSING YOUR INNER VOICE: City Opera House, TC. Bestselling author Ethan Kross reveals how to harness the positive power of your constant inner voice in his national bestselling book, “Chatter.” Kross is a psychologist & the director of University of Michigan’s Emotion and Self Control laboratory. He’ll also talk about his upcoming book, “Shift,” that focuses on how to manage your emotions. Guest host is Dana Black. Doors open at 6pm with live music, a cash bar, & cookies. The event begins at 7pm & includes a 15-minute Q & A & author signing. $10-$27. cityoperahouse.org/node/615

LOST GIRL BY KIMBERLY BELFLOWER: (See Weds., Nov. 20)

nov

22

friday

LUNCHEON LECTURE:

“OUR ELECTED LEADERS”: 11:30am, NCMC, Library Conference Center, Petoskey. Meet the Emmet County clerk, treasurer, sheriff & maybe a few others who were elected (or re-elected) on Nov. 5. Register. $15; includes a buffet lunch. ncmclifelonglearning. com/event-5772586

CANDLELIGHT: TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT: Kirkbride Hall at GT Commons, TC. Enjoy a live, multi-sensory musical experience featuring the music of Taylor Swift with the Listeso String Quartet, under the gentle glow of candlelight. Held at 6:15pm & 8:30pm. $35-$55. feverup.com/m/196399 ----------------------

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL”: 7pm, Cadillac Community Auditorium, Cadillac High School. Presented by the Cadillac Footliters. $12-$15. cadillacfootliters.com/tickets DANCING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS WITH ELF: 7pm, Great Lakes Center for the Arts, Bay Harbor. Presented by the Great Lakes Dance Academy. This recital brings to life the heartwarming story of Buddy, a human raised among elves at the North Pole, who embarks on a journey to New York City to discover his true identity. $23-$33. greatlakescfa.org/events/detail/ dancing-through-the-holidays-with-elf

SEUSSICAL: (See Sat., Nov. 16)

SWITCHBACK - A CELTIC CHRISTMAS CONCERT: 7-9pm, Old Art Building, Leland. This show will feature musicians Brian FitzGerald & Martin McCormack performing Christmas standards, Irish melodies, & a few originals. Voted the top duo for Irish music in Europe & North America by the Irish Music Association, Switchback has shared the stage with luminaries such as the Chieftains, Leon Russell, & the Moody Blues. $30 adults; $15 12 & under. oldartbuilding.com/ events/switchback-a-celtic-christmas

saturday

EARLIER THAN THE BIRD: 7-11am, Downtown Boyne City. Special offers for those shopping in their pajamas.

SWINGBONE CONCERT: 7pm, AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center, Grayling. Enjoy a fresh spin on jazz standards & blues grooves. This group covers ‘40’s big band swing & bebop-inspired jazz classics, drawing from the great American songbook. $30. artisanvillage. org/events.

BROTHER DAN’S HANDMADE HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW: 9am-4pm, Emmet County Fairgrounds, Petoskey. Local vendors offer handmade items for sale. Admission is $2 or a non-perishable food item. Benefits Brother Dan’s Food Pantry.

MANCELONA COMMUNITY CRAFT SHOW: 9am-3pm, Mancelona Elementary. Proceeds from the event will benefit Pathway Community Church’s youth camp programs. Free admission.

TORCH AREA ARTISANS GUILD ART & CRAFT FAIR: 9am-3pm, Helena Township Community Center, Alden. Arts & crafts for sale by local artisans. A quilt made by TAAG members will be raffled off. There will also be a bake sale & lunch will be available, as well as periodic door prizes. No entry charge. facebook.com/TorchAreaArtisansGuild

BEADING WORKSHOP: 10am, Glen Lake Community Library, Empire. Join jeweler Holly Lang for this session on making your own jewelry. Learn various beading methods & create a bracelet to take home with you. All materials will be provided. glenlakelibrary.net ----------------------

MERRY MARKETPLACE 2024 - ARTIST POP-UP: 10am-3pm, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Cornwell Gallery, TC. A juried selection of artists featured in the Carnegie Galleries. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-traverse-city/merry-marketplace-2024-artistpop-nov-23

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SATURDAY BOOK SHOWDOWN: 1010:30am, Petoskey District Library, Children’s Program Room. A new twist on storytime! A battle of two books. Two books will be read & only kids can decide who wins. For ages 3-7. petoskey.librarycalendar. com/event/saturday-book-showdown-1005

DANCING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS WITH ELF: (See Fri., Nov. 22, except today’s times are 1pm & 7pm.)

LORI FELDPAUSCH ART DEMO: 1-3pm, Twisted Fish Gallery, Cottage Gallery, Elk Rapids. TC oil painter Lori Feldpausch will develop her canvas & demonstrate how to paint a candle light scene - where to bring in more light, how to soften the scene. She welcomes your questions. Free. twistedfishgallery.com/ event/lori-feldpausch-to-paint-at-twisted-fish

TRAVERSE CITY CIVIL AIR PATROL OPEN HOUSE: 1-4pm, Legacy Aviation Learning Center, 2640 Aero Park Drive, TC. Try hands-on flight simulators & drones, aerospace activities for students of all ages. Free admission.

KEN LUDWIG’S “LEND ME A SOPRANO”: (See Sat., Nov. 16, except today’s times are 2pm & 7:30pm.)

MAKE A GIFT, JR: 2-4pm, Interlochen Public Library. Craft supplies & volunteers will be available for kiddos & adults to make a few gifts this holiday season. There will

Kate Bush meets Liz Phair for indie pop & spectacular vocals

in her world debut as a bandleader, featuring David Marchione Bass • Zach Feinstein Drums Blaize Oswald Guitar • Ted Kocher Hammond B3 Saturday November 30 7:30 pm • $15

ongoing

15% off entire purchase ($10 minimum)

*Discount is prior to tax. Excludes gift baskets. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. One coupon per customer. May not be combined with any other sales or discounts. Cannot be used towards the frequent buyer’s card. For use online and in store.

Code: TAGG23 Expires: 11-23-2024

STROLLING LIGHTS FESTIVAL: Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District, Glen Arbor. To sponsor a tree the cost is $150 with a minimum of $100 per sponsored tree going to the Nicholas Wiesen Bentzien Musicianship Fund. Pre-lit trees will be placed on the grounds of the Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District by Nov. 18. Groups & families can choose a theme & must provide all decorations (tree, lights & stands will be provided). The sponsoring families/ groups may then decorate their tree Nov. 18-27. It is the hope then that all trees will be fully decorated & available for strolling by from Nov. 29, all through the New Year. The Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District is open 7 days a week (closed Thanksgiving Day & Christmas Day). crystalriveroutfitters. com/strolling-lights-festival

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP/CLASS: East Bay Branch Library, TC. Held on Thursdays (except holidays) through mid-Dec. from 1-3pm. 922-2085. Free. tadl.org/event/understanding-your-grief-17583

INDOOR FARMERS MARKET: The Village at GT Commons, The Mercato corridor, TC. Saturday mornings, 10am-2pm. thevillagetc.com

art

ANNUAL SMALL WORKS SHOW: Higher

Art Gallery, TC. Featuring over 200 small, original works of art made by over 65 artists. Runs Nov. 16 - Jan. 4. An open house will be held on Sat., Nov. 16 from noon- 3pm. higherartgallery.com/exhibitcalendar

“JUST GREAT ART”: Runs through Dec. 20 at City Opera House, TC. This art exhibit features work by local plein air artists Sue Bowerman, Kurt Bullock, Jeanette Dyer, Lori Feldpausch, Rita Harrington, Ruth Kitchen, Dorothy Mudget, Joyce Petrokovitz & Marilyn Rebant. It’s open Mon. through Fri. from 10am-2pm during normal box office hours & evening events. cityoperahouse.org

FREE OPEN STUDIO TUESDAYS: Noon4pm, Boyne Arts Center, Boyne City. Bring your paints, fiber arts, written arts, sculpting, jewelry, cards, drawing, or other portable mediums. Create & share.

CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER, PETOSKEY:

- OPEN STUDIO, PETOSKEY : Saturdays, 10am-1pm in the Visual Arts Room. Free drop-in art studio for the whole family. New projects are offered weekly. crookedtree.org

- “GHOST STORIES”: Runs through Dec. 7 in Atrium Gallery. This exhibit invites the viewer to consider the nature of a memory, storytelling, & its relationship to the human experience. Featuring Ronna Alexander, Nik Burkhart, Nancy Adams Nash, Egan Franks Holzhausen, TJ Schwartz, & Ann Willey. An opening reception will be held on Fri., Nov. 15 from 4-5:30pm. crookedtree. org/event/ctac-petoskey/ghost-stories

DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC: - “A BEAUTIFUL MESS: WEAVERS & KNOTTERS OF THE VANGUARD”: The eleven artists in this exhibition transform rope, yarn, clay, wire, & extension cords into wall hangings & sculptures that range from minimal & hyper-organized to expansive, organic installations. Runs through Jan. 5. Open Tues. through Sun., 11am4pm. Closed on major holidays. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/ index.html

- “KATRINA BELLO: SKY INTO STONE”: A solo exhibition by Katrina Bello featuring

charcoal & soft pastel drawings created around the time of her Tusen Takk residency in 2023. Runs through Jan. 5. Open Tues. through Sun., 11am-4pm. Closed on major holidays. dennosmuseum.org/art/ upcoming-exhibitions/index.html

- A STYLE ALL OUR OWN: CANADIAN WOODLAND ARTISTS: Runs through May 25. In the early 1960s, young Indigenous artists from the Great Lakes region created a unique style of painting known as the Woodland School of Art. Early members of this prolific art community included Norval Morrisseau, Carl Ray, Roy Thomas, Sam Ash, Jackson Beardy, & Daphne Odjig. Perhaps the best-known of the group is Norval Morrisseau, who is often referred to as the Father of the Woodland School. Open Tues. through Sun., 11am4pm. Closed on major holidays. dennosmuseum.org/art/now -on-view/canadianwoodland-artists.html

- CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE CERAMICS FROM THE HORVITZ COLLECTION: Runs through Sept. 28, 2025. An array of works by contemporary Japanese ceramic artists, this is a sampler of the great diversity of styles, forms, glazes, & ages. These artworks are drawn from the curated collection of Carol & Jeffrey Horvitz, some of the leading collectors of Japanese contemporary outside of Japan. Open Tues. through Sun., 11am-4pm. Closed on major holidays. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/index.html

GLEN ARBOR ARTS CENTER: - OUTDOOR GALLERY EXHIBIT: MARGO BURIAN + ORDINARY MAGIC: Leelanau County artist Margo Burian’s collages have been chosen for display in the Glen Arbor Arts Center’s 2024-25 Outdoor Gallery exhibition, an annual, invitational exhibit. Burian’s collages are rooted in the idea of Ordinary Magic, or delight. They were reproduced on five, 5-foot-square, weather-resistant aluminum panels created by Image 360 of TC. Runs through April 20, 2025. Check web site for hours. glenaborart.org

- SMALL WORKS HOLIDAY EXHIBITION: The 2024 Small Works Holiday Exhibition is an annual showcase of 2D + 3D work that offers small, original art at affordable prices; $150 or less. It runs through Dec. 19 & features more than 100 works of art. glenaborart.org

- WILD THINGS: Held in the Lobby Gallery. This exhibit is an homage to the natural world, & the creatures in it, as expressed in the collages by Benzie County artist Claudia Keglovitz. It runs through Dec. 19. Almost every aspect & element of Claudia’s compositions are created from recycled, reused, & found materials. See web site for hours. glenarborart.org/exhibits

OLIVER ART CENTER, FRANKFORT: - “RESONANCE AND RHYTHM” : This exhibit runs through Nov. 30. It highlights the work of four Michigan artists & focuses on the interplay of the abstract & organic as showcased in the whimsical & sculptural wood furniture of John DeHoog & the mixed media abstract paintings of Christy DeHoog Johnson. Michelle Krievins-Newman’s layered, color field paintings create a rhythmic balance against the geometries & patterns explored by Joan Richmond in her interpretive landscape paintings. The Oliver Art Center is open Tues-Sat. from 10am-4pm & Sun. from noon-4pm. oliverart.org

- WINTER MARKET: Runs through Dec. 22. Featuring the handmade work of more than 30 local & regional artists & craftspeople. Gift items include ornaments, jewelry, ceramics, cards, wearable art, prints, paintings & photography. Oliver Art Center is open Tues. - Sat. from 10am-4pm & Sun. from noon-4pm. It is closed on Mondays & on Nov. 28-29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. oliverart.org

Conclave

by JOSEPH BEYER

While there aren’t many Lutheran or Presbyterian thrillers out there in the multiplexes, audiences can always count on the world of Catholicism to return to the big screen. Vatican City alone is so cinematic and intriguing there are over 40 films set there, according to Wikipedia. So while an adult drama that plays out against discussions of theology and bureaucracy may not seem intriguing, the new film Conclave will surprise you—if you are among those many people fascinated by patriarchal papal politics.

That’s because Conclave is a thinking person’s picture, with lots of hushed dialogue and intense energy expressed only through facial expressions and innuendo that you will be forced to interpret. And the realistic tension at the heart of this dramatic film—who will become the next pope after the mysterious death of a predecessor—holds its own until the end, leaving you to almost believe it could have unfolded this way.

The conclave is an ancient ritual dating back to 1276. It dictates any new pope must be elected by a gathering of the College of the Cardinals in Rome, and that each cardinal must arrive to vote in person under extreme secrecy. Over a hundred cardinals from around the world debate behind closed doors the Sistine Chapel under the watchful eye of Michelangelo’s famous paintings.

Believers gather outside. If no pope is elected by a majority, the ballots are burned and the smoke from the chimney is black. If a new pope is chosen, the ballots are burned and the smoke is white: announcing a new reign and leader of the church.

It is a tradition already ripe with drama, so when the film introduces an inner power struggle to the narrative, along with suspicions and shifting loyalties from all sides, the result is a chess game of potential outcomes.

Directed by Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front) from a screenplay by Peter Straughan, Conclave is based on the novel of the same name from author Robert Harris.

Conclave’s European pedigree is clear, as Berger unfolds the story piece by piece and character by character, weaving the mystery together and keeping the tension building until the film’s very unusual end.

At the center of this struggle is Cardinal Lawrence, played with restraint and conviction by the especially talented British actor Ralph Fiennes. In his hands, Cardinal Lawrence becomes the keeper of the conscience of the church while trying to lead the conclave to its conclusion. The only thing standing in his way is a volatile fight for the papacy and lingering questions about the previous pope’s death.

The rivalry between potential popes is heated and full of dogmatic divisions, and it pits multiple cardinals against each other in a fight for control of the church. In one ideological corner is the modern liberal Cardinal Bellini, played by Stanley Tucci, who reminds us with his performance why audiences should see him in more films.

Aligned against him are Cardinals Tremblay and Tedesco, played by actors John Lithgow and Sergio Castellitto, respectively. They are hardliners filled with ambition, and each proactively seeks the spiritual throne. Once voting begins, a previously unknown Cardinal Benitez (played with a quiet edge by Mexican actor Carlos Diehz) emerges as a contender who could ruin all the best laid plans…and the stage is fully set.

For most of Conclave you will likely feel intrigued and sometimes riveted. As the story is untangled in the final act, you may wish for less religious repartee and possibly some more plot. But in the end, the film delivers on fascinating themes you won’t see many other movies taking on, and for that and more, it’s a worthy experientia.

Rated PG, primarily for the chain smoking displayed by some cardinals, and running 120 minutes, Conclave is currently in theaters and expected soon to stream on Peacock and Apple.

Grand Traverse & Kalkaska

ENCORE 201, TC

11/15-16 & 11/22-23 -- DJ Ricky T, 9

IDENTITY BREWING CO., TC

11/19 -- TC Celtic, 6-9

11/21 -- Beyond Trivia, 7-9

KILKENNY'S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE, TC

11/15-16 -- Scarkazm, 9:30 Mon -- Team Trivia, 7-9 Tue -- The Will Harris Trio, 8 Wed -- The Pocket, 8 Thu -- DJ Leo, 9:30 11/22-23 -- Life Theory, 9:30

KINGSLEY LOCAL BREWING

11/19 – Open Mic Night, 6-8 1/21 – Trivia Night, 6:30-9

LEFT FOOT CHARLEY, TC BARREL ROOM:

11/18 -- Open Mic w/ Rob Coonrod, 6-9

TASTING ROOM:

11/22 -- Rebekah Jon, 5-7

LIL BO, TC Tues. – Trivia, 8-10 Sun. – Karaoke, 8

MIDDLECOAST BREWING CO., TC

11/22 -- David Lawston, 6-9

NORTH BAR, TC 7-10:

11/16 – Nick Vasquez

11/20 – Jesse Jefferson

11/21 – Drew Hale

11/23 – Jazz Cabbage

OLD MISSION DISTILLING, TC

SEVEN HILLS, PENINI: 11/16 – Gemini Moon, 6:30

11/20 – Jimmy Olson, 6 11/22 – Chris Smith, 6 11/23 – Jesse Jefferson, 6

SORELLINA'S, TC SLATE RESTAURANT: Thurs. -- Tom Kaufmann on Piano, 5-8 Fri. & Sat. – Tom Kaufmann on Piano, 6-9

THE ALLUVION, TC 11/18 -- Big Fun - Funky Fun Mondays, 6-8:30 11/21 -- The Jeff Haas Quintet feat. Marion Hayden, Anthony Stanco, & Tariq Gardner, w/ Lisa Flahive, 6-8

11/22 -- Compton & Newberry wsg The North Carolines, 7:309:30

11/23 -- Molly w/ Full Band & Special Guest Amber Hasan, 7:30-10

11/24 -- The Alluvion Big Band, 3-5

THE HAYLOFT INN, TC

7:30-11: 11/15-16 -- Grand Crew 11/22-23 -- TC Knuckleheads

THE LITTLE FLEET, TC 11/16 -- DJ Nights w/ DJ Ras Marco D Vibe & Flow, 8 11/20 -- Endless Summer w/ DJ Dusty Staircase, 3-11

Antrim & Charlevoix

THE PARLOR, TC

8-11:

11/16 -- Jim Hawley

11/19 -- Jesse Jefferson

11/20 -- Tai Drury

11/21 -- Jimmy Olson

11/22 -- Luke Woltanski & John Piatek

11/23 -- Mal & Mike

THE PUB, TC

11/16 -- Jazz Cabbage, 9

11/18 -- Karaoke Monday, 8-11

11/20 -- Zeke Clemons, 7-10

11/21 -- David Márton, 7-10

11/22 -- Rhett & John, 8-11

11/23 -- Luke Woltanski & John Piatek, 8-11

THE WORKSHOP BREWING CO., TC

11/17 -- Laughs on Tap: The Comedy Variety Open Mic, 7 11/19 -- Open Mic w/ Zak Bunce, 6:30

11/21 -- DJ Trivia, 7 11/23 -- Aaron Dye, 8 11/24 -- Full Tilt Comedy Mixtape #18, 7

TURTLE CREEK CASINO & HOTEL, WILLIAMSBURG

11/16 – Knee Deep, 8-12

11/22 – DJ Mr. Markis, 9-1

11/23 – Brett Mitchell & The Mitchfits, 9-1

UNION STREET STATION, TC

11/15-16 -- The Lucas Paul Band, 10

11/21 -- DJ 1Wave, 9

11/22 -- The Time Bombs Happy Hour Show, 6; Peril, 10 11/23 -- The G-Snacks, 10

nitelife

edited by

jamie kauffold

Send Nitelife to: events@traverseticker.com

TC’s The True Falsettos share their vintage swing at Little Traverse Inn, Maple City, Fri., Nov. 22 from 6-9pm.

Manistee, Wexford & Missaukee

LITTLE RIVER CASINO RESORT, MANISTEE 11/16 – Thunder From Down Under, 8-9:30 11/23 – Family Tradition, 9-1

NORTHERN NATURAL CIDER HOUSE & WINERY, KALEVA 6: 11/16 -- Stanley & Quiggle 11/23 -- Jakob Abraham

Leelanau & Benzie

THE GREENHOUSE - WILLOW/PRIMOS, CADILLAC 11/20 -- Trivia & Music Bingo Night w/ Shawny-D, 6-9 11/21 -- Kids Karaoke, 6-7; Adults Karaoke, 7-10 11/23 -- The Rupple Brothers, 7

BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM

7:

11/21 -- Adam & The Cabana Boys

11/22 -- Patrick Ryan & Josh Raber

BRIDGE STREET TAPROOM, CHARLEVOIX

11/19 -- Patrick Ryan, 7

CELLAR 152, ELK RAPIDS

11/22 -- Blair Miller, 6-8

CELLAR 1914, CENTRAL LAKE

11/16 -- Joe Domanick, 4-7

ETHANOLOGY, ELK RAPIDS

11/16 -- Winter Market w/ John Piatek Duo, 7-10

JAX NORTHSIDE, CHARLEVOIX

11/20 -- Trivia Night, 7

MAMMOTH DISTILLING, BELLAIRE

11/20 -- DJ Trivia, 7-9

SHORT'S PUB, BELLAIRE 11/21 -- Trivia Hosted by DJ Trivia, 6:30

SHORT'S PULL BARN, ELK RAPIDS

11/21 -- Grass River Natural Area Trivia, 6-8

Otsego, Crawford & Central

ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY, GAYLORD 6-9:

11/16 -- Nelson Olstrom 11/22 – Mike Ridley 11/23 -- Zie

BIG BUCK BREWERY, GAYLORD 6: 11/16 -- Pete Kehoe 11/22 -- Nelson Olstrom

C.R.A.V.E., GAYLORD 11/22 -- Lou Thumser, 6

BLACK STAR FARMS, SUTTONS BAY BISTRO POLARIS, 6-8: 11/16 -- Highway North 11/23 -- Zack Meyers

BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS, LAKE LEELANAU TASTING ROOM: 11/16 -- Lipstick & Dipstick, aka DOLCE, 2:30-5

CICCONE VINEYARD & WINERY, SUTTONS BAY 11/17 -- Nick Veine, 2-4:30

FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARD, CEDAR 11/21 -- Rob Coonrod, 4

IRON FISH DISTILLERY, THOMPSONVILLE

RAY'S BBQ, BREWS & BLUES, GRAYLING 11/17 -- Pete Fetters, 4-7

SNOWBELT BREWING CO., GAYLORD 11/22 -- Todd Aldrich, 6-9

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS, PETOSKEY 2-6: 11/16 -- Chris Calleja 11/23 -- Michelle Chenard

CITY PARK GRILL, PETOSKEY 11/19 -- Trivia Night, 7-9 11/22 -- Annex Karaoke, 9:30

GYPSY DISTILLERY & EVENTS CENTER, PETOSKEY 11/21 -- Reality TV Trivia, 7-9

11/16 -- Brian Curran, 5:307:30

11/17 -- Blair Miller, 3:30-5:30 11/22 -- The Feral Cats, 5:307:30

11/23 -- Chris Smith, 5:30-7:30 11/24 -- Keith Scott, 3:30-5:30

LAKE ANN BREWING CO. 11/16 -- The Jameson Brothers, 6:30-9:30 11/21 -- Trivia Night, 7-9 11/22 -- A-Z Music, 6:30-9:30 11/23 -- Billy & The Kid, 6:309:30

LITTLE TRAVERSE INN, MAPLE CITY 11/22 – The True Falsettos, 6-9

SHADY LANE CELLARS, SUTTONS BAY

Emmet & Cheboygan

MAMMOTH DISTILLING, BAY HARBOR 11/21 -- Trivia Night, 7-9

NOGGIN ROOM PUB, PETOSKEY

11/16 -- Raimie Lynn, 7-10

11/20 -- Singo Bingo, 6:30

11/22 -- Sydni K, 7-10 11/23 -- Brian McCosky, 7-10

ODAWA CASINO RESORT, PETOSKEY VICTORIES, 9: 11/16 -- DJ T-Bone

11/22 -- Friday Night Live w/ Sean Miller, 4-7

ST. AMBROSE CELLARS, BEULAH

11/16 -- Whitney Boecker, 5-8 11/21 -- Open Mic Night, 6-9 11/22 -- Blake Elliott, 5-8 11/23 -- The Whiskey Charmers, 5-8

SWEET’S BAR & GRILL, HONOR Mon. – Music Bingo, 7 Fri. – Music Bingo, 8; Karaoke, 10 Sat. – Karaoke, 8

UPRIVER PIZZA, BENZONIA 11/20 -- Andrew Littlefield, 6:30

11/22 -- Family Tradition Band THE BEAU, CHEBOYGAN 8: 11/16 -- Silverfox Supernova 11/21 -- Musicians Playground Open Mic 11/23 -- Lee Fayssoux

THE WIGWAM, INDIAN RIVER 11/21 -- Dominic Fortuna, 7:30-9:30

lOGY

BY ROB BREZSNY

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The Greek term pharmakon has a complicated set of meanings: scapegoat, poison, remedy, and recipe. According to my astrological analysis, all of these could soon be operative in your life. One surprise is that a metaphoric “poison” you are exposed to may ultimately serve as a remedy. Another curiosity is that a scapegoat may reveal a potent recipe for redemptive transformation. A further possibility: You will discover a new recipe for a very fine remedy. I’m not certain exactly how the whole story will unfold, but I’m betting the net effect will be a lot of healing.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): As an American, I'm jealous of how many festivals the Japanese people celebrate. By some estimates, there are over 100,000 events every year—an average of 274 per day! They may feature music, theater, dancing, entertainment, karaoke, sumo matches, games, delicious food, colorful costumes, spiritual observances, and parades of floats and shrines. If you are a Japanese Leo, you're in luck. The astrological indicators suggest that in the coming months, you should take extra advantage of your culture’s revels, parties, and social merriment. If you're not in Japan, do your best to fulfill your cosmic mandate to frolic and carouse. Start as soon as possible!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The Flintstones was an animated TV comedy show broadcast in the US from 1960 to 1966. It was colossally silly and wildly popular. It portrayed cavemen and cavewomen living suburban lives in the Stone Age with dinosaurs as pets and cars made of wood and rocks. The chirpy theme song for the show was stolen from a piano sonata written by the classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven. In the coming weeks, Virgo, I invite you to steadily carry out the opposite of that conversion. Transform what’s daft or preposterous into what’s elegant and meaningful. Change superficial approaches into righteous devotions. Move away from trifling diversions and toward passionate magnificence.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Even if you’re not a professional writer, I invite you to compose three lyrical messages in the coming days. One will be a psalm of appreciation for a person who enchants your imagination and inspires you to be your best self. Another will be a hymn of praise that you address to yourself—a gorgeous, expansive boast or an outpouring of gratitude for the marvel and mystery of you. The third salutation will be an address to a higher power, whether that’s God, Goddess, Nature, your Guardian Angel, Higher Self, or Life itself. If you can find it in your brave, wild heart to sing or chant these exaltations, you will place yourself in close alignment with cosmic rhythms. (PS: In general, now is a fantastic time to identify what you love and express your feelings for what you love.)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The Museum of Broken Relationships is in Zagreb, Croatia. It collects castaway objects left behind after intimate relationships have collapsed. Among its treasures are love letters, wedding rings, jars of bitter tears, stuffed animals, feather-filled quilts, and matching sweaters. Inspired by this sad spectacle, I invite you to create a very different shrine in your home: one that’s dedicated to wonderful memories from times of successful togetherness. Making this ritual gesture of hope and positivity will prepare you well for the potential relationship growth available for you in the coming months.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): It's the Soul Retrieval phase of your long-term cycle, Capricorn. Have there been people, either alive or dead, who wounded or pirated parts of your treasured essence? Have you experienced painful events that weakened your connection to your inner riches? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to undertake meditations in which you carry out repair and restoration. You will summon curative agents whenever you reclaim lost and missing fragments of your soul. Be aggressive in seeking helpers who can synergize your own efforts.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The Wistaria Vine in Sierra Madre, California is the world's biggest blooming plant. Spread over an acre, it weighs 250 tons and teems with over 1.5 million blossoms. propose we regard it as your inspirational symbol for the coming months. Why? expect you will be more abundantly creative and generative than maybe ever before. Your vitality will overflow. Your vigor will be delightfully lavish and profound. Homework: Start planning how you will wield and manage all that lushness.

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): Piscean playwright and songwriter Robert Lopez is the only person to have won all four of the following awards more than once: Oscars, Tonys, Emmys, and Grammys. He was also the youngest person to have won all four. propose we make him your inspirational role model in the coming weeks and months. According to my astrological analysis, you are primed to ascend to new levels of accomplishment in your chosen field—and to be acknowledged for your success. Think big! Then think even bigger.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Award-winning Aries filmmaker Quentin Tarantino was born and raised in the US. But he has said, "I don't make movies for America. I make movies for planet Earth." applaud his expansive perspective and recommend you cultivate your own version of it in the coming weeks. You will generate good fortune for yourself as you enlarge your audience, your range of influences, and your sphere of activity. It will be an excellent time to transcend previous notions of who you are and what your life’s assignments are. The frontiers are calling you to open your mind wider than ever as you leap to the next higher octave of your destiny.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): "Earth knows no desolation. She smells regeneration in the moist breath of decay." Author George Meredith said that, and now I'm conveying it to you. Why? Because you’re entering a phase when you will have maximum power to ensure that decay leads to regeneration. My advice: Instead of trying to repress your awareness of what's decomposing, tune into it energetically. The sooner you embrace the challenging but interesting work to be done, the faster and more effective the redemption will be. Here’s your battle cry: Turn rot into splendor!

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Mercury will be your slippery but sticky companion in the coming weeks, Gemini. Whether or not you believe he is a literal god who abides in the spiritual realm, I trust you will acknowledge that he is a vivid archetype. He symbolizes forces that facilitate communication and promote connection. Since he is constantly traveling and conversing, he also represents boundary-crossing and thresholds. I encourage you to summon his assistance whenever you want to lubricate links and foster combinations. He can help you unify disparate influences and strengthen your network of allies.

CANCER (June 21-July 22):Utility poles and telephones poles may seem to be indestructible towers, but they have a limited life span. A prime factor in their gradual demise is woodpeckers. The birds drill holes that over time weaken the wood. Their handiwork allows moisture to seep in, causing rot, and creates access points for small animals to burrow in and cause further disintegration. bring this to your attention because I want to encourage you to launch a woodpecker-like campaign against any seemingly impregnable structures that oppress and restrict you. It might take a while to undermine their power to interfere with your life, but now is an excellent time to begin.

“Jonesin”

Crosswords

"The Follow-Up" --there's a replacement. by Matt Jones

ACROSS

1. Swedish automaker

5. Long-lasting style

9. Fighting words

14. Experienced

15. WWII opponent

16. Specialized market

17. British elevator that flat-out doesn't work?

19. Does a vet's job

20. Greek vowel

21. "___ be here soon"

22. Move briskly

23. Movie star known for silly and bumbling characters?

27. Rubber squeakers, e.g.

30. A in German class

31. Floating out there

32. California's La ___ Tar Pits

33. Med. insurance option

36. "This event totally reminds me of a traveling carnival"?

41. Musical aptitude

42. "___ Calm and Carry On"

43. Cuba libre garnish

44. Served as

45. 2015 Emily Blunt crime film

48. Two focuses of a Grateful Dead-themed vegan restaurant?

52. Company found at many airports

53. "South Pacific" Tony winner Pinza

54. Rubber duckie's home

57. ___ Sark (scotch brand)

59. Group that reports on a single Greek island?

61. "Ignore that last comment"

62. "What's Hecuba to him, ___ to Hecuba": Hamlet

63. "Because of the Times" group Kings of ___

64. Cares for

65. General ___ chicken

66. Office furniture

DOWN

1. Out of trouble

2. Touch upon

3. "Dark Angel" actress Jessica

4. Arthur of "The Golden Girls"

5. Minuscule

6. Napoleon and Peron, for example

7. Rummage (through)

8. Ariz. setting all year long

9. Contacts

10. Go quietly (around)

11. Snowman accessory

12. "Stop kidding around!"

13. Avian homes

18. Napoleon Dynamite's uncle

23. Trading card figure

24. Soft ball substance

25. "Mon ___!" (French cry)

26. ___ empty stomach

27. Go out with

28. Accident-preventing org.

29. Equipment

32. Fast jazz subgenre

33. "Aquarius" musical

34. Rogers once married to Tom Cruise

35. Cookie that partnered with Coca-Cola

37. Furniture retailer with a blue and yellow logo

38. Recognized

39. Get out the message?

40. TV chef Bobby

44. Broken beyond belief

45. Defiant challenge

46. Van Gogh bloomers

47. Nile snapper, for short

48. Implied

49. Egg cell

50. Feel at home

51. Razzes

54. Swing support

55. Unusual crafts

56. Top or bottom bed

58. QB's gains

59. "This is ___ normal"

60. Long familiar

NORTHERN EXPRESS CLASSIFIEDS

COTTAGE FOR RENT: TC 1BR Cottage, Fully Furnished, All Utilities, A/C, W/D, Cable TV, Enclosed Porch, Parking, Very Nice, Quiet, Month-to-Month to Year, No Pets, $1,500 per month. (231) 631-7512.

HANDY HELPERS FOR HIRE & JACKSOF-MULTIPLE-TRADES: Gutter CleaningGardening-Leaf Mulching-Auto Detailing & much more! 231.454.9022

BEGINNER FRIENDLY SEWING CLASSES AT INTERQUILTEN: Sign up now for Dec 14 gift making classes geared for beginner and novice sewists at InterQuilten. Ages 8 to adult. More info at www.interquilten.com or call 231-922-6766.

SEWING, ALTERATIONS, MENDING & REPAIRS. Maple City, Maralene Roush 231228-6248

HOUSE CLEANING-ERRANDS-ELDER ASSISTANCE/OVERNIGHTS: house or cottage cleaning. Kids/Elder Family EVENING Sitting. CALL 231.454.9022

PAID PT WORK TRAINING FOR SENIORS

AGE 55+: Are you ready to work? Paid Part-Time Positions Are Waiting to Be Filled. Receptionist, Cashier, Retail and Customer Service, Custodial, Sorting and Stocking. Applicants must be age 55 and over, unemployed, seeking work and meet program eligibility. Call the AARP Foundation SCSEP Program to find out if you qualify, 231-252-4544.

COMPUTER PROBLEMS?: I can fix your computer, tablet, tv and phone. I'll show you how to use it. If it can't be fixed I can help you replace it with the right device for you. I'll come to your home or office. Call Janes Downer, Advent Tech. Your high tech handyman. 231-492-2087

ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT International mini golf design/build firm with fun and expanding office environment seeking support staff with solid experience in accounts receivable, familiarity with progress billing, cost accounting, as primary duties, but may also include additional accounting support as needed. Qualified candidate must be detail oriented and possess strong Quickbook and Office 365 skills. Compensation commensurate with work experience, skill set and education/ degree. Benefits include health insurance, holiday pay, vacation/pto, retirement. cherie@adventureandfun.com

$3,500 per month | 520 S Union

$349,000 | 630 Webster Street Prime

$2,000,000 | 5168-5200 US 31 N Large,

| 12755 S Marina Village

$1,200,000 | 124 N Division Great location on the SE corner of Division with high visibility