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2 january 2014 / ecurrent.com

ecurrent.com / january 2014 3

online exclusivesExclusive features at www.ecurrent.com

Come taste the bandsLarge music festivals pres-ent a unqiue opportunity for us to discover new musical artists and expand our tastes in music—but that’s no reason to wait

until the end of January to sample the fest’s wares. From contemporary touring-and-recording artists like Ingrid Michelson and Neko Case to Michigan-based indies like The Crane Wives, Current magazine has you covered, with a playlist featuring every musician on the Folk Fest bill at ecurrent.com

Iron ReganHyperbolic but

family-friendly comedian Brian Regan will bring the funny to The StranahanTheater in Toledo on Thursday, January 9. Brandon Doriot cornered him about getting coffee with Jerry Seinfeld and other questionable acts.

fyi 6 Go get your growlers, craft beer lovers

green corner 6A (legal) grow-op in Ypsi?

The Ann Arbor Folk Fest 8Health & Wellness 15

food features 18 & 20Get your sauerkraut (pg.18)

and crepes (pg.20)

by Marisa Rubin & Laura Lubrano

contents january 2014 vol. 25 / no.1

26 theater feature Drawing the County Line with playwright David Wellsby Sandor Slomovits

28 art feature:These are totally the drones you are looking for by Louis Meldman

32 current readsAnn Arbor/Ypsi reads dabbles in striking fictionby Joseph Schafer

35 everything else

37 crossword


Daily Film Program Sponsor

VALENTINE’S DAY FREE MEMBER EVENTMichigan �eater members are invited to a free screening of FROM HERE TO ETERNITY on Tuesday, February 14 at 7:00pm. Champagne and chocolates from Schakolad Chocolate Factory will be served at a member reception from 5:30-6:30pm. �e event is FREE to all members, but you must have a ticket to be admitted. RSVP by February 8 to Sarah Madsen at smadsen@

JANUARY FILM SCHEDULEKEEPING THE SPIRIT OF SUNDANCE AND CINETOPIA ALIVE ALL YEAR ROUND

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 FREE! 2:00 PMThe UM Nam Center for Korean Studies presents Korean Cinema Now:COLD EYES1 (2013)SUNDAY, JANUARY 12 1:30 PMThe Toyota Family-Friendly Film Series presentsTHE LAND BEFORE TIME2 (1988) Free for kids 12 & under! This animated dinosaur buddy film is moving and unforgettable entertainment for the entire family. Presented by the Benard L. Maas Foundation.TUESDAY, JANUARY 14 FREE! 7:00 PMUM Center for the Education of Women presentsA CELEBRATION OF WOMEN AND FILM Short films by and about women, with a discussion by

.Registration required. For more information or to register, visit tinyurl.com/CEWCelebrates-Women-Film.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 FREE! 2:00 PMThe UM Nam Center for Korean Studies presents Korean Cinema Now:THE BERLIN FILE1 (2013)TUESDAY, JANUARY 21 7:00 PM Tugg presentsELEMENTAL (2012)All tickets $10. For tickets, visit http://wwww.tugg.com/events/6486.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22 8:00 PM Tugg presentsLINSANITY (2013)All tickets $11. For tickets, visit http://wwww.tugg.com/events/6587.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 FREE! 2:00 PMThe UM Nam Center for Korean Studies presents Korean Cinema Now:ALL ABOUT MY WIFE1 (2012)SUNDAY, JANUARY 26 7:00 PM

ANSWER THIS!2 (2010)Special fundraiser for Food Gatherers and the Michigan �eater! Brothers and Ann Arbor natives shot Answer �is! in Ann Arbor in 2009 and the �lm had its world premiere in 2010; this special screening will also include a Q&A about the Farahs’ new Discovery Channel TV project, currently �lming in Detroit.1 Visit www.ii.umich.edu/ncks/eventsprograms/�lmscreenings for more information.2 Advance tickets at ticketweb.com. Charge by phone: 866-468-3401.

SPECIAL FILM EVENTS

OPENS IN JANUARY

INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS and

GRAND PRIZE WINNER. and ETHAN COEN follow the life of a young singer ( ) as he navigates the 1961 Greenwich Village folk scene. With , , and GOODMAN. 105 minutes. Rated R.

–A.O. Scott, New York Times

CONTINUES IN JANUARY

SAVING MR. BANKSPrickly author P. L. Travers (

) and tenacious filmmaker Walt Disney () don’t see eye to eye on the movie

adaptation of Travers’ novel, Mary Poppins. With PAUL GIAMATTI, , COLIN FARRELL, and more. 125 minutes. Rated PG-13.

A NEW SERIES PRESENTED BY ZOUNDS HEARING | COMING IN FEBRUARY!

WED. JAN. 15 7PMA special screening of this fascinating film about the famed pioneer in human sexuality research starring LIAM NEESON, followed by a brief presentation from retired UM professor DR. SANDRA COLE about the Kinsey Institute and the ongoing concerns of sexual health.ADVANCE TICKETS AT TICKETWEB.COM.

KINSEY(2004)

SUNDANCE SHORTSJANUARY 28 & 29 7PM

A collection of the best shorts from the

FESTIVAL PREMIERE: INFINITELY POLAR BEAR

7:30PM

WITH SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCES! MARK

RUFFALO ZOE SALDANA)

TICKETS

ON SALE

NOW!


Adams Street Publishing Co.

Also publishers of: Audited by Member

Follow us on Facebook and TwiTTertwitter.com/annarborfamily

© 2014 by Adams Street Publishing Co., All rights reserved. 3003 Washtenaw Ave., Suite 3, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, Phone (734) 668-4044, Fax (734) 668-0555. First class subscriptions $30 a year. Distributed throughout Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and neighboring communities.

What’s your NYE Resolution?

Publisher/Editor in ChiefCollette Jacobs ([email protected]) moderation

Co-publisher/Chief Financial OfficerMark I. Jacobs ([email protected]) to slow down and spend time with family and friends.

EditorialAssignment Editor: Matt Breneman ([email protected]) drink more.

Arts & Entertainment Coordinators:Joseph Schafer ([email protected])nuclear armistace

Jan Thomas ([email protected])make more art.

Staff writer:Griffin Messer-Kruse ([email protected])my resolution is to ride an albatross over the grand canyon while hammered on grain alcohol.

Calendar Editor:Marisa Rubin ([email protected])own a diamond

Digital Media Specialist:Brandon Doriot ([email protected])1920x1080

Contributing Writers: Louis Meldman,, San Slomovits, Nan Bauer, Jeff Milo, Lucy Huber

Art/ProductionSenior Designer:Leah Foley ([email protected])save more money.

Graphic Design: Brittney Koehl ([email protected])keep being awesomeMegan Anderson ([email protected])#yolo more often. #universe #nye #resolveJameson Staneluis ([email protected]) reduce, reuse, recycle or learn something newKyle Iwanicki listen to more three 6 mafia

AdvertisingSales Manager:Aubrey Hornsby ([email protected])why try to improve perfection?

Sales Represntative:Melinda Prince ([email protected])be more active outdoors in the way of sports. not so much camping, as i feel like that’s just practice for being homeless which i never plan on being.

Sales Coordinator:Emily Gibb ([email protected]) work on my flexability. yoga b*tch!

Customer Service RepresentativeLauren McLaughlin ([email protected]) drink more h20.

AdministrationAccounting: Robin Armstrong ([email protected])to quit breaking my new year’s resolutions!

Distribution: Michele Flanagan ([email protected])try to be more outgoing.

^ RoosRoast has expanded by tearing down a wall, adding an arch, new furniture and a wrap around bar. In addition, they now serve low sugar,

whole grain pastries to accompany their signature coffee choices. 1155 Rosewood St. 734-222-9202. roosroast.com

^ After 31 years in downtown Ann Arbor, the Selo/Shevel Gallery

plans to sell the three-story building at 301 S. Main St. and close in early 2014. 734-761-6263. Seloshevelgallery.com

^ The owners of the State Theater are exploring the possibility of transforming the upstairs, two-auditorium space into either a renovated theater, a commercial office space or a residential space. It’s just an idea at this point, but, the State Theater could begin a transformation within the next few years. 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667.

www.michtheater.org/state/

The former Hollywood Video store at 1480 Washenaw, vacant the last 4 years, will now be occupied

by Nankin Hobby. The business is a children’s toy and craft store. 734-961-7575.

^ Renovatio Woodworks, a business that sells pieces made of re-purposed rustic wood, has opened above Smokehouse Fiftytwo at 125 S. Main St. in Chelsea. 734-475-0985. Facebook.com/pages/Renovatio-woodwork

^ Ginger Deli, a Vietnamese sandwich shop owned by Ann Arbor entrepreneur Te Phan, is slated to open this month on the corner of South Division and East Liberty. The takeout business will have ranging from pho (noodle soup) to classic banh mi sandwiches.


green cornerDr. Green ThumbResurrected plans abandoned by an entrepreneur will lead to a second medical marijuana growing facility in Ypsilanti. The project, located at 834 Railroad St., first came before the city planning commission in December of 2012, where is was turned down due to landscaping and parking deficiencies. The new applicant, Mo Chammout,

has been granted approval for his site plan, but

still must obtain a medical marijuana license before opening

the facility. In August, the city

approved a limit on medical

marijuana grow facilities and dispensaries that will only allow for one more grow facility to open within city limits. —GMK

fyi

Bottoms upIf you are a craft beer enthusiast, then you probably have noticed that many of A2’s bars are now selling growlers—a large, to-go jug of beer. Now on tap are several more legislative bills that will loosen brewery and brew pub restrictions, from increasing the barrel threshold for microbrewers to allowing certain businesses to obtain temporary liquor licenses before they receive final approval. The proposed bills would also prohibit bars from advertising a glass of beer as a pint unless the glass contains 16 ounces of beer but would permit small breweries, that produce fewer than 1,000 barrels a year, to self-distribute in restricted areas. So far, the bills have all passed the House, and will now go to the Senate for consideration.


fyi


feature


How do you feel about the increasingly mainstream appeal of folk music?To my ears, folk is not pop music. It doesn't feel as if it was born in a laboratory—it's more organic than that. It's good to see people responding to this Americana explosion, if you will, listening to artists who are actually playing instruments.

Is there anything in particular you're doing to get ready for the folk festival?I will be performing some songs off the new album that I am working on. I've been working with The Wood Brothers. It won't be released until after the Folk Fest, but I'll be doing some sneak peeks.

Seth Walker

What will you be doing during your down-time at the festival?I'm originally from North Carolina, so I need to bring my coat. I’ll be spending most of that time indoors! [laughs] Well, I will make it down to the 107one radio station—I hope to stop by and see those guys. I need to stop by the Arbor Brewing Company to get a pint and some nachos.

If you could sit in with any one artist playing this year at the festival, who would it be and what song would you play?It would need to be Patty Griffin, she's so soulful. There's this tune of hers, "Heavenly Day," that someone's requested me to sing at a wedding. I'd love to help her with that.

If you could curate your own festival of folk music—or any kind of music, for that matter—what artists would you include in the lineup?The Wood Brothers, of course. I think The Mavericks are a great band that encompass all kinds of genres of music. If I could shoot for the moon I'd definitely put Bob Dylan in there, Guy Clark and Nick Lowe for sure.

This Austin-based singer-songwriter has been mixing honky-tonk blues and New Orleans soul since 1997.

Friday, January 31I R O N A N D W I N EN E K O C A S EJ U S T I N T O W N E S E A R L EW I L L I E N I L EP E A R L A N D T H E B E A R DT H A O A N D T H E G E T D O W N S T AY D O W NT H E A P P L E S E E D C O L L E C T I V E S E T H W A L K E R , M C

Saturday, February 1P A T T Y G R I F F I NI N G R I D M I C H A E L S O NJ E F F D A N I E L SB I G S A N D Y A N D H I S F L Y - R I T E B O Y SJ O H N N Y S W I MP I G P E N T H E A T R E C O .T H E C R A N E W I V E SS E T H W A L K E R , M C

6:30pm each night. $35-47.50 (one night) $60-85 (both nights). Hill Auditorium, 825 N University Ave. 734-761-1818. theark.org/ann_arbor_folk_festival.html

The 37th Ann Arbor Folk Festival.


feature

What does "folk" music mean to you? Folk music to me feels familiar and nostalgic but does not get old.

Why, do you think, Ann Arbor has become the base of this beloved, annual festival?I've had the pleasure of playing Ann Arbor once, I am really looking forward to the second time at the Folk Festival. I remember it as one of the most enjoyable, connected shows we've ever played, with an incredibly kind and present audience. That is the best thing a performer can hope for.

Is there anything particular or special you're doing to prepare for your festival performance?I'm going to dust off my chops and we're going to rehearse our older more folksy songs and... I'm going to listen to the Louvin Brothers and the Carter Family.

What's the best concert you've seen this year?Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings at the San Fransisco Symphony Hall because they are incredible musicians and entertainers and Sharon Jones is a marvel. I would never want to perform before or after her.

How are you going to spend your time when you're not onstage at the Festival?Catching other sets and trying to get Neko Case to hang out with me.

Folk music is evolving in many directions, these days—blending with pop music, country, metal and mainstream electronic—where do you see the genre growing in the coming decade?I think people with respect for the tradition (of which there are many) will embrace the new directions with grace and discretion and preserve and protect the heart and bones of folk music forever.

Thao Nguyen

F r o m T H e G e T D o W n S T A y D o W n

I r e m e m b e r I T A S o n e o F T H e

m o S T e n j o y A b l e , c o n n e c T e D S H o W S

W e ' v e e v e r p l A y e D

Nguyen released her first record

as guitarist, singer and

songwriter with San Fransisco's

psychedelic rock collective The

Get Down Stay Down in 2005.


What does "folk" music mean to you? To me, folk music is the true music of the masses. It has deep roots and a tangible connection to the past. There is a sense of carrying the torch in the folk community, of maintaining and re-imagining, evolving while keeping sight of where we've been. I think historically folk music has taken on the struggles of the lower classes, fostering a strong community. Folk music is about more than just the music. But purely in relation to the music, I think the presence of acoustic instruments is often considered a defining characteristic of folk music.

How do you feel about the increasingly mainstream appeal of folk music?I think it's promising. The current state of the music industry is in some ways an open door, and a lot of musicians are taking advantage of the opportunity. There are so many dedicated and talented musicians that have been drowned out by pop-culture. It's such a shame that more people know The Jonas Brothers than know The Punch Brothers. But I think that trend is changing, even if just a bit.

Why has Ann Arbor become the base of this beloved, annual festival?I think Ann Arbor is the base of the festival because there are people here to support it. Ann Arbor has an amazing community of arts supporters, people who want to enrich their own lives and the lives of those around them and are willing, quite frankly, to put their money where their mouth is.

Do have any influences or roots here in Ann Arbor, or in Michigan? Innumerable. I'm sure each one of us could go off at length about our Michigan and Ann Arbor heroes. [Folk duo] Seth Bernard & May Erlewine lead the way for musicians everywhere. [They] help us keep focused on what is really

Thao Nguyen

The Appleseed

BrAnDon SMitH ( v i o l i n / M A n D o l i n / v o c A l S )

Ann Arbor's own gypsy folk-plus-ragtime crusaders The Appleseed Collective began performing in 2010. They will release their new album, Young Love, this winter.

important. Josh Davis and the gents of Steppin' In It are songwriting/shredding monsters. Breathe Owl Breathe reminds us to stay light and play with it.

Folk music is evolving in many directions, these days—blending with pop music, country, metal and mainstream electronic—where do you see the genre growing in the coming decade?Who knows! I'm very interested in pushing the limitations of what can be done with acoustic instruments—there are a couple bands out there bravely exploring this territory. Punch Brothers' cover of Radiohead's “Kid A” is a good example.

C o l l ect i v e


feature

What does "folk" music mean to you? Does it have a definition or defining characteristics?Styles: To me now, in current 21st century speak, the term "folk" is probably trademarked by Billboard magazine and used to easily catalog music for our iTunes playlists for easy tracking. Other than that, I believe at one point it had something to do with acoustic guitars, songs, about everyday things and general hardships by common people or "folk."Mackenzie: The term "folk" music is just as nebulous as the term "pop" music. The sonic variety is so different within the genre that I think the term "folk" has mostly just come to signify a type of music that makes you really connect with your feelings, whether you want to or not.

Why, do you think, Ann Arbor has become the base of this beloved, annual festival?Mackenzie: Michigan (and Ann Arbor specifically) is home to some very passionate people. Passionate about sports, passionate about the arts, passionate about beer, passionate about music. It seems that anything people get into here, they get into all the way, and a community forms to experience joy together through that common cause. It's a great way to live.

What's the best concert you've seen this year and why?Styles: Jocelyn and I saw Frightened Rabbit at Webster Hall and that was phenomenal. Those guys have been around for years and I'm glad they're getting some recognition. Their banter was great. Their performance was tighter than a baby's wallet. The stage set up was awesome with great lighting, which I am beginning to appreciate more and more in a live performance.

Pearl & the Beard.

Jeremy StyleS ( g u i t A r A n D v o c A l S )

Jocelyn mAckenzie, ( p e r c u S S i o n , k A z o o A n D v o c A l S )

New York City’s own pop-folk trio Pearl and the Beard released their debut EP in 2009. Their three-part harmonies recall the golden age of pop-rock music.

How are you going to spend your time when you're not onstage at the Festival?Styles: I'm super pumped to see Neko Case. Also it will be nice to see Thao. We played with her a few years back in New York and it's always great to reconnect with people. Mostly just enjoying the music.

if you could sit in with any one artist playing this year at the festival, who would it be and what song would you play? Why?Mackenzie: Emily (Hope Price, cello and vocals) has been dreaming up a cover version of Iron and Wine's "Evening on the Ground" for ages. If we could sit in on that song, or any song, with them, that'd be incredible.

Jocelyn Mackenzie (L) Emily Hope Price (C) and Jeremy Styles (R)

Photo by Kate Daigneault


featureJohnnyswim

How do you feel about the increasing mainstream appeal of folk music?What's exciting about it is that it shows people are hungry for music that is a little more "real" than what they've been fed generally with recent "pop" music.

Is there anything particular or special you're doing to prepare for your festival performance?We are massive fans of all the folks playing so we've been geeking out listening to the music of all the other artists playing the festival.

How are you going to spend your time when you're not onstage at the Festival?I'm sure we'll spend our time completely fanning out over all the other artists performing! We'll either be side stage or trying to find seats in the front to get the best vantage point!

What are your past experiences with the Ann Arbor Folk Festival?This will be our very first experience and the anticipation is killing us. Our expectations are

through the roof and everything we've heard about the festival, the performers and attendees has added to both our excitement and nerves!

If you could sit in with any one artist playing this year at the festival what would it be, and what song would you play?Patty Griffin's “Moses.” This is one of the songs that made me want to write songs.

Folk music is evolving in many directions, these days—blending with pop music, country, metal and mainstream electronic—where do you see the genre growing in the coming decade?I see it infecting other genres with its sense of earnestness, honesty and heart. I think music will be better as a whole in the next decade, and that its growth will be pointed back to the influence of folk music.

AmAndA SudAno ( v o c A l S , m u l t I - I n S t r u m e n t A l I S t )

Sudano and now-husband Abner

Ramirez founded Johnnyswim in

Nashville in 2005. The daughter of Diana Ross,

Sudano’s crystalline voice comes with a

pedigree.

Amanda sudano (L) & Abner Ramirez (R).


What does "folk" music mean to you? To me, "folk" music means colloquial music, honest music written from raw emotion, conceived naturally and performed organically. Music that is representative of a moment of human life. Music that is written from the heart-home of a person living a journey. It's the age old tradition of open-hearted expression.

Why do you think Ann Arbor has become the base of this beloved, annual festival?In my experience, Ann Arbor is an incredible, eclectic place of vibrant Michigan culture. We've had the pleasure of meeting so many friends in Ann Arbor who are doing so many truly inspiring things with music and the artistic community. It's a great place for experiencing art. As both a listener and a performer, I'm continually blown away by the city's incredible acoustic spaces and listening rooms as well.

Do you have any influences or roots here in Ann Arbor, or in Michigan?We have influences that come from everywhere, but our roots are here in Michigan, and that's something we are very proud of every day! What a truly real-world-incredible home we have!

If you could sit in with any one artist playing this year at the festival who would it be, and what song would you play?I would sit in with Iron & Wine on the song "Singers and the Endless Song." Sam Beam's albums have been, and continue to be, an enormous inspiration to me and

my bandmates. The performance from the rhythm section on the new record, especially on that tune, is absolutely mind-blowing. I'd love to be a part of that groove while it's happening live.

Folk music is evolving in many directions, these days—blending with pop music, country, metal and mainstream electronic—where do you see the genre growing toward in the coming decade?Musical styles have blended so wildly that music is becoming increasingly hard to define with genre descriptors. I think that allows for a really adventurous environment where artists are free to stand out. My favorite bands are those that you have to experience for yourself to understand, you can't draw a solid bead on what they sound like until you hear them.

The Crane Wives

DAn RIckAbus ( D R u M s / p e R c u s s I o n /

v o c A l s / c o - p R o D u c e R / t h I R D s o n g W R I t e R )

This Grand Rapids quintet has been

mixing emotional folk with pop music since 2010. In 2012, Paste

Magazine called them one of “12 Michigan Bands You Should

Listen to Now.”

(L-R) Dan Rickabus, Emilee Petersmark, Ben Zito, Kate Pillsbury, Tom Gunnels


featureHealth Wellness+

Lawrence Desjarlais General

and Cosmetic Dermatology In my specialty, the one health tip that I can offer to help someone change their life is:

regular skin exams and sun protection.

“ “

Dr. Lawrence Desjarlais, MD, FAAD

Everybody has broken a New Year’s resolution in the past. But this is the year to become the “you” that you can be. Sure, you can’t sport a six pack

of abs after one week but there are quick changes you can make to become healthy for 2014. Those highlighted in this guide will make you happy, fit and ready to take on anything this year throws at

you.

“My dermatology practice brings a unique blend of medical and aesthetic skincare; Treating patients of all ages with

diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to skin, hair, and nails. I take pride in the ability to help my patients look, feel and become a healthier individual.” says Dr. Desjarlais.

Healthy skin is beautiful skin. It supports that inner confidence that you wear every day. Doctor Desjarlais says he finds it

very rewarding to follow his patients and help them through their journeys. One of his most rewarding cases “was helping a young lady with a scar she suffered from a dog bite on her

face. With the latest laser technology we were able to markedly improve the appearance of the scar and increase her self-

esteem at a very critical age for her.”

2350 Washtenaw Suite #3Ann Arbor MI 48104

drdesjarlais.com 734-619-6047 +

Continued on pg. 16


featureTherapeutic Massage by Body Conscious

People’s Food co-op

Everyone needs a place that they can relax and regenerate. The owner, Grace Adams said “We’re trained in dealing with underlying problems and getting rid of pain as well as promoting relaxation.” Grace was drawn into the field because she herself suffers from chronic pain and she wanted to have a better understanding about it. Stress plays a big role in a lot of disease, illness and pain. Finding ways to really focus on yourself and your own wellbeing is important and makes a huge difference. A massage does more than just relax you though. Grace says she has “a patient who has chronic headaches and TMJ dysfunction that caused constant jaw pain and discomfort. With regular treatment we have been able to reduce her

pain significantly and she has much fewer headaches than before.”

Do you know where your food comes from? It’s tricky these days. There is an increased awareness about food, health and sustainability, more than ever before. These are all fundamental to the co-op’s mission. Kevin Sharp, the Marketing and Member Services Manager says, “A fundamental difference between the People’s Food Co-op and other grocery stores is cooperative ownership…the co-op is open to the general public as well. Everyone is encouraged to shop and benefit from what the co-op

has to offer.”

With a lot of medical treatments people might feel better later. People leave our studio and

instantly feel better.

“ “

It’s a fundamentally different way of doing business that puts more control over their food supply into people’s

“ “

2454 E Stadium Blvd Suite BAnn Arbor, Michigan 48104

734-929-5930bodyconsciousmassagetherapy.com+

Grace Adams NCTM, Owner

216 N. Fourth Ave.Ann Arbor, MI 48104

peoplesfood.coop 734-994-9174 +

Kevin Sharp, Marketing

Continued from pg. 15


feature

A2 Yoga

Once considered a fad left over from the hippy-60’s, yoga is now considered to help create healthier lifestyles. At A2 Yoga the diversity and the quality of classes offered not only attests to the quality of the teachers, but to students of all levels. They live the essence of an article written by business Guru, Ari Weinzweig, Striving for Third Place. “First place is home, second place is work or school, and third place is that place in the community that you fit in, a place you feel welcomed.” It’s also been a mission of the owner, Diana Hough to give back to the community, “each quarter a non-profit organization is chosen to be sponsored by A2 Yoga’s Program: Change into Dollar$ - Makes more Sens¢. In this way, we offer the classes

and 100% of the donations go to charity.”

Create healthy habits everyday (H2E). If it’s a habit, it will make you happy. Happiness is contagious!

2030 COMMERCE BLVDANN ARBOR, MI 48103

A2Yoga.com 734-216-4006 +Diana Hough, MS, L.E., CHE

““


A trip to DeutschlandGerman history in Ann Arborby: Marisa Rubin

food

Spätzle, Knödel and Essen Roulades, might sound like spells cast by Harry Potter, but the only magic being served up at Metzger’s is authentic German cuisine. Since 1928, the German restaurant has been temptng the palate of Tree City residents with rustic southern German cuisine, such as the world famous “Frankfurter” of Frankfurt, Germany and Spätzle (tiny dumplings) which are the southern version of northern Knödel (potato dumplings). Bavarian influence is evident throughout the menu. Southern Germanic foods are not complex, yet they are robust with flavor and heartiness. For four generations, the Metzger family has kept the tradition alive, complete with European ambiance and loyal customers.

The menu includes many classic entrees as well as some new fan favorites. The classics include Wiener Schnitzel (a breaded pork cutlet), a variety of wursts and roulades (a hand cut round of beef, rolled and stuffed with bacon, onion, pickles and spices). The house specialty, Sauerbraten, is a delicious roast beef marinated in a sour cream wine sauce. The fan favorites include the Käsespätzle (cheese Spätzle), which is an appetizer serving of warm dumplings served over sauerkraut, smothered with onions and melted Swiss cheese. Another favorite is the delicious Bavarian red cabbage, dished-out alongside an entree. The menu also includes side dishes like German potato salad, spätzen (German noodles), sauerkraut and potato pancakes. Metzger's also takes pride in their selection of genuine German beer as well as a wine list complete with regional items and the famously aromatic German wine, Gewürztraminer .

Metzger's serves soul-satisfying family recipes from an authentic German kitchen, complete with European flavor and inspiring meals. The decor is filled with German memorabilia that takes you straight to Deutschland. More than just a local eatery, Metzger’s is a trip to Germany.

Monday-Wednesday, 11am-9pm; Thursday-Saturday, 11am-10pm; Sunday, 11am-8pm. Metzger's, 305 N. Zeeb Rd.

734-668-8987. metzgers.net

Photos by

Marisa Rubin

ecurrent.com / january 2014 19cont. on page 20

ongoing

Saturdays Ann Arbor Farmers Market 8am-3pm. 315 Detroit St.

734-794-6255. a2gov.org Take a stroll on down to Ker-rytown to enjoy the fantastic market. This incredible open-air market has been an A2 institu-tion for over 90 years.

Saline Indoor Farmers Market 9am-noon. Liberty School, 7265 Saline Ann Arbor Rd. 734-429-3518. cityofsaline.org Shop an abundance of fall pro-duce, delicious baked goods, eggs, local cheese, and much more.

Sunday Grange Sunday Brunch 10am-3pm. Grange Kitchen & Bar, 118 W. Liberty St. 734-995-2107. grangekitchenandbar.com Relax on Sunday and enjoy this eclectic brunch menu featuring local farm produce.

1 friday 2014 NHL Winter Classic3-9pm. Grange Kitchen & Bar, 118 W. Liberty St. 734-995-2107. grangekitchenandbar.com Watch the Detroit Red Wings as they host the Toronto Maple Leafs on the field at Michigan Stadium. Then join Grange for dinner, snacks and drinks.

4 saturday American Legion Steak Fry 5pm. $10. American Legion D.W. Cassard #208, 133 44th St., Kentwood. 734-309-8881. The first Saturday of every

month come and enjoy superb steak, baked potato, salad, garlic bread, mushrooms and onions.

5 sunday

Fondant Foundamentals 1-5pm. $100. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3723 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.com In this class you will learn to make hand-made fondant along with the techniques to shape it. Attendees will decorate a 6 inch cake to take home.

7 tuesday

Jackhammer Release Party 6-7pm. $10. Corner Brewery, 720 Norris St., Ypsilanti. 734-480-2739. arborbrewing.com Join Corner Brewery for the annual release of Jackhammer Old Ale. This event includes snacks, samples of this year’s batch and a discussion with one of the brewers.

Raw Foods: Learn the Many Benefits of a Raw Vegan Diet 7-8:30pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room, 114 S. Main St. 734-994-4589. peoplesfood.coop Free Ellen Livingston will talk about how to rid yourself of bother-some symptoms and how to take charge of your health with a raw food diet.

8 wednesday

Cinn-ful Cinnamon Rolls 5:30-9:30pm. $125. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3723 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.com Learn the basic techniques of creating sweet dough and form hand-shaped cinnamon rolls to take home.

Baking with BeerAdd a new twist to baking—beer! Join Zingerman’s Bakehouse on Thursday, January 23, and learn how to make delicious beer bread, beer scones and beer crackers that will be your go-to party food. This fun, easy technique will definitely impress your friends. Leave the class with fantastic recipes and skills you can use to recreate these items at home. Registration required. 5:30-9:30pm. $100. Zingerman’s Deli, 422 Detroit St. 734-663-3354. zingermansdeli.com—MLR


food

Often thought of as just dessert or breakfast food, crepes aren’t expected to be the foundation of a restaurant, but that’s exactly what downtown Ann Arbor’s What Crepe? is doing – and it works.

The idea behind What Crepe? was conceived when owner Paul Jenkins Jr. fell in love with crepes while visiting Toronto, inspiring him to bring a crepe-only restaurant to Michigan. The Royal Oak and Birmingham locations came first, and their success led to the Ann Arbor location, which opened in 2013.

The restaurant’s atmosphere is both cozy and elegant with reclaimed wood paneling alongside chandeliers and French décor touches. A television over the bar playing a black and white movie (instead of the omnipresent sports programming) adds to the vintage-chic ambiance.

Choose from several different savory and sweet crepes on the menu, or build your own. The list of ingredients includes items like artichoke hearts, chorizo and brie cheese for savory crepes, as well as caramelized apples, peanut butter, and various fruit sorbets for the sweeter version.

What Crepe? is also friendly to vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diners. Any of the crepes can be made with vegan or gluten-free batter, and there are enough vegan and vegetarian filling options to satisfy those with even the strictest dietary restrictions.

“That’s the great part about our menu,” said Nicole Myint, General Manager/Manager of Marketing and Events, “there’s something for everyone.”

Although its name implies otherwise, What Crepe? serves more than just crepes. The menu features soups and salads, as well as What Crepe? Crispies (crispy chip-like crepe pieces) served with one of their many dips as an appetizer.

No matter what you decide on, “everything is homemade and cooked to order,” Myint explained. That extra effort definitely shows.

I decided on The Standby Crepe. It arrived at the table wrapped like a burrito and stuffed full of baby spinach along with grilled asparagus, grape tomatoes, avocado and melted Swiss cheese. It was tasty, fresh and filling.

My companion ordered some of the Spicy Chicken Truffle (spicy chicken, spinach, Swiss cheese and a truffle “zip” sauce), which I sampled. It was hearty and had a pleasant – but not overpowering – kick. It’s no surprise it’s one of the most popular menu items.

As satisfying as the entrée crepes were, the dessert crepes were the true stars. The Nutty Monkey—with bananas, candied pecans, Nutella and powdered sugar, all topped with a baseball-sized scoop of vanilla ice cream and whipped cream was deliciously decadent and big enough to split.

What Crepe? is also heavily involved in the local community and often sponsoring community events and programs. The focus on the local community also plays out in the bar menu. The only location with a full bar, Ann Arbor’s What Crepe? features several specialty cocktails with local liquors, as well as local beer and wine.

What Crepe? provides an intimate, unique dining experience with menu options that ensure you’ll always have something new to try.

Serving up a bit of France in Ann ArborBy Laura Lubrano

What Crepe?241 E. Liberty St. 734-369-3207whatcrepe.comMonday, closed;

Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-9pm;

Friday, 11am-11pm;

Saturday, 8am-11pm;

Sunday, 8am-4pm


food9 thursday

Gluten Free: The New Frontier1-5pm. $125. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.com After countless customer requests, BAKE! is exploring the area of gluten free baking! Create a muffin, a flat bread, a quick bread, and a brownie using grains and flours with no gluten.

11 saturday

Date Night: Chinese Takeout 6:30-10pm. $150/pair. Ann Arbor Cooks, 5060 Jackson Rd. 734-975-2500. annarborcooks.com Bring your special someone and have some fun in the kitch-en cooking up this Chinese takeout menu. Bring a bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal.

12 sunday

Ann Arbor Restaurant Week Ann Arbor Area Experience cuisine that de-lights your palate and defines the art of dining in Ann Arbor. Now is your chance to discover new restaurants and enjoy favorites at a discounted price. Make reservations early at par-ticipating restaurants. Tables fill

fast during this gastronomically great event. Through January 17. 14 tuesdayYoga and Wine 6:30pm. $25. Sandhill Crane Vineyards, 4724 Walz Rd., Jackson. 517-764-0679. sandhillcranevineyards.com Relax with a yoga session taught by Amy Reamer fol-lowed by a glass of wine, and a chocolate and cheese plate. Bring your own yoga mat, if you need to borrow a mat, mention so when making res-ervation. Also on January 28. 21 tuesdaySatisfying Winter Soups 6:30-9:30pm. $75. Ann Arbor Cooks, 5060 Jackson Rd. 734-645-1030. annarborcooks.com Learn to cook up delicious soup recipes from around the globe. Each soup will be paired with a bonus recipe for a soup or salad accompaniment. Bring your own carryout containers.

Herbal Wisdom: The Liver - Herbs That Nourish and Support This Critical Organ 7-8:30pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room, 110 S. Main St. 734-994-4589. peoplesfood.coop Free By the end of this talk, you

will have greater appreciation for the hundreds of functions of the liver, the importance of keeping it healthy, how to sup-port great liver functioning, and the many myths and misunder-standings associated with liver cleansing.

23 thursdayBaking with Beer5:30-9:30pm. $100. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.com In this class BAKE! will instruct you how to make a beer bread, scone and crackers that are sure to become your favorites to make at home. You’ll want to throw a party to impress your friends right away.

29 wednesdayThai One On!6:30-9:30pm. $75. Ann Arbor Cooks, 5060 Jackson Rd. 734-975-2500. annarborcooks.com Thai food is a great way to awaken your senses in the dead of winter. So come cook up some tasty fun!

31 friday

Who You Calling A Cream Puff?9am-1pm. $100. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.com Learn how to make cream puff shells, and basic techniques of creating these sweet and savory pastries. You’ll make your own dough and pipe eclairs, and cream puffs. The cream to fill these products will be provided for you. You’ll go home with your sweet tooth satisfied and the knowledge to make these treats at home.

Serving up a bit of France in Ann ArborBy Laura Lubrano

ecurrent.com/Food

music


3 fridayAcoustic, Folk & EthnicKim Gnagey and Karlye Walker - Silvio’s Organic PizzaKim Gnagey is a local singer-songwriter, whose pop-style songs encompass a variety of musical flavors. Karlye Walker’s pop-style vocals are smooth, yet fiercely impres-sive. 7pm. Free.

4 saturdayJAzz, BluEs & R&B The Pete Siers Trio - Downtown Library Multi-Purpose RoomPercussionist Pete Siers, clarinetist Dave Bennett and pianist Tad Weed pay tribute to Gene Krupa, the famous drum-mer and bandleader. 8pm. $5.

5 sunday

clAssicAl, spiRituAlBill Bolcom & Joan Mor-ris - Kerrytown Concert HouseThe internationally renowned husband-and-wife duo of composer-pianist William Bolcom and mezzo-soprano Joan Morris perform Bolcom’s cabaret songs plus a program drawing on their vast repe-toire of classics and obscure gems spanning the history of American popular song. 4pm. $15 - 50. 8 wednesday

Rock, pop & hip-hopAeris - The Blind PigAeris is a popcore band from Oakland County—picture Attack Attack but without breakdowns. Their sound is a mixture of catchy melodies and more aggressive hardcore music. 9:30pm. $5. 9 thursday

Rock, pop & hip-hopThe Vonneguts- The Blind PigThe Vonneguts are a straight forward rock band from Detroit that plays guitar driven grooves with no gimmicks. 9:30pm. $5.

Brother Sun - The Ark Pat Wictor, Greg Greenway, and Joe Jencks have formed a dynamic new male trio. Their harmonies, as much as their lyrics sound warm as a camp-fire, stirring as a gospel church and rousing as a call to arms. 8pm. $20.

10 friday

Acoustic, Folk & Ethnic Kinderconcert - Downtown Library Multi-Purpose RoomLearn about the charming cello from Eric Amidon; about the pi-ano from Kathryn Goodson, and listen, dance and hear a story with Gari Stein. Performances at 9:30am and 10:30am. Free.

Tim Prosser and Steve Rich - Silvio’s Organic PizzaTim Prosser (the mandolin maniac) and Steve Rich bring listeners a cornucopia of acous-tic folk, pop, and originals with voice, guitar, and mandolin. Plus a surprise special guest every time. 7pm. Free. Rock, pop & hip-hopMountain Heart - The ArkThis band can go from high-speed harmonic turns to straight ahead ballads with soul and feel like no others. They have appeared on the revered stage of Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry nearly 130 times in their 16+ year career, to standing ovations and roaring applause. 8pm. $30.

11 saturday

Rock, pop & hip-hopPocket Vinyl Plus Jim Cherewick and the Wicker ChairsThis unique live show consists of an energetic one-man-piano-band coupled with a live painter who creates a work of art on stage and is auctioned off at the end of the show. 8pm. $10 or free with Yellow Card.

Acoustic, Folk & EthnicJill Jack Birthday Bash - The Ark Jill Jack’s magical connection to her audience is the result of her generous artistry. By

Mountain HeartFriday, January 10 / The ArkWhat do you get when you combine bluegrass, southern rock, delta blues and country? The answer is Mountain Heart, a genre shape-shifting rock band, known for their raucous live show. Formed in 1998, their sound has been described as “acoustic overdrive” and “folk rock on steroids,” but they aren’t afraid to delve into lengthy passages of jazzy improvisation as well. Their signature tunes have a little something for everybody with an appreciation for Ameri-can music. 7:30pm. $30. The Ark, 316 S. Main. 734-761-1451. theark.org—GMK

music

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music

cont. on page 24

combining her gifts as a con-ceptual visionary with a warm gathering of musical influences, Jill touches that secret heart of ours with her melodies and lyrics. 8pm. $25.

12 sunday

Rock, PoP & HiP-HoPDr. Ralph Stanley & His Clinch Mountain Boys - The ArkRalph Stanley’s voice is not of this century—nor of the last one, for that matter. Its stark ur-gency is rooted in a time when a short life of trouble was the common lot, when storytelling songs and laments had the grandeur of tragedy. 7:30pm. $45/$70.

classical, sPiRitualKimiko Ishizaka - Kerrytown Concert HouseA brilliant pianist of Japanese heritage born in Germany, Kimiko Ishizaka believes that music should be accessible to everybody, especially the works of the great masters such as Johann Sebastian Bach. 4pm. $5-$25.

15 wednesdayRock, PoP & HiP-HoPThe Whigs - Blind Pig American garage rockers The Whigs are a southern rock power trio that has toured with Kings of Leon, The Black Keys and Drive-By Truckers. See note above. 9:30pm. $12.

Jazz, Blues & R&B Colin Stetson - Arthur Miller Theatre Ann Arbor-born saxophonist Co-lin Stetson is a touring member of Arcade Fire, Bell Orchestre and Bon Iver—and an impres-sive solo artist in his own right. In addition to saxophone, he plays clarinet, bass clarinet, french horn, flute, and cornet. Encore performance on 1/16. 7pm. $20-$45.

16 thursday

classical, sPiRitualLiz Pearse - Kerrytown Concert House Soprano Liz Pearse finds joy in variety, reflected in perfor-

mances spanning from medi-eval chamber works to world premieres of operatic and solo literature. 8pm. $5 - $25.

acoustic, Folk & etHnicMikaela Davis - The ArkMikaela Davis is a harpist/sing-er-songwriter from Rochester, New York. Her musicianship became clear at age eight when she began to study the harp with Grace Wong, prin-cipal harpist of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. 8pm. $12.50.

17 friday

acoustic, Folk & etHnic Dixon’s Violin - Yellow Barn The world’s premier digital violinist, Dixon’s life mission is to inspire people! And he has done so across North America, captivating audiences from inti-mate shows to crowds of thou-sands, including Burning Man, two TED talks/performances, plus radio and TV. 7:30pm. $10 or free with Yellow Card.

Jazz, Blues & R&B Kronos Quartet - Power CenterFor 40 years, the Kronos Quartet has pursued a singular artistic vision, combining a spirit of fearless exploration with an ongoing commitment to re-imagining the string quar-tet experience. 8pm.

18 saturday

Rock, PoP & HiP-HoPJustin Roberts - The ArkJustin and his band, the Not Ready for Naptime Players, dish out intelligent and whimsi-cally rocking music for kids and their parents. Roberts started out in the Minneapolis indie rock band Pimentos for Gus, which inspired a devoted but small following. 1pm. $12.50 19 sundayJazz, Blues & R&BThe Whammies - Kerrytown Concert House The Whammies (named after a Steve Lacy tune) bring together musicians from three cities,

The WhigsWednesday, January 15 / The Blind PigFormed in 2002, The Whigs, a garage rock power trio in the vein of The Black Keys and Kings of Leon, never stray far from their rock and roll prototype, though many of their songs do feature a horn section and pseudo-soul vo-cals. Their live performances as a trio boast a massive sound that is greater than the sum of its parts. Expect amps cranked to 11 and lots of distorted guitar—earplugs not included. 9pm. 18+. $10 advance / $12 doors. The Blind Pig, 208 S. 1st St. 734-996-8555. blindpigmusic.com —GMKP

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united by an interest in creating adventurous improvisational forms. 7:30pm. $5 - $30. 20 fridayacoustic, Folk &etHnicBiakuye Percussion Group - Downtown Multi-Purpose Library AADL presents a special concert event on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, featuring the acclaimed percussion group Bi-akuye with a concert grounded in American innovation and African traditions. 1pm. Free.

23 thursday

acoustic, Folk & etHnicJames Hill - The Ark With the release of “Man With a Love Song,” James, recog-nized as one of the world’s foremost ukulele players, stands poised and ready to take his place in the ranks of today’s best young songwrit-ers. 8pm. $20.

Rock, PoP & HiP-HoPBlueline Brass Band - The Blind PigLed by sax-man T.J. Wolfgram and trombonist Chris Plaskota, BlueLine plays all groove-able music—from pop to funk and even hip-hop. 9:30pm. $10. 24 friday

Rock, PoP & HiP-HoPMichael Joseph - Silvio’s Organic Pizza A rocker at heart, Michael does covers with an acoustic, some-times jazzy, twist. Everything from Badfinger to Cowboy Junkies to Smashing Pumpkins, with a few originals in between. 7pm. Free.

26 sunday

Rock, PoP & HiP-HoPThe Revelers - The Ark A Louisiana counterpart to Los Lobos, with musicianship and style. 7:30pm. $15.

Folk the Police - The Blind PigAn all-night allstar jam featuring The Ragbirds & Macpodz Col-loboration alongside Black Jake & The Carnies, Joshua Davis, The Ben Daniels Band and much more. 9:30pm.

classical, sPiRitualDenis Matsuev - Hill Auditorium Siberian pianist Denis Matsuev, winner of the 1998 International Tchaikovsky Competition and a relatively recent UMS discovery, has wowed UMS audiences as featured soloist with the Mariin-sky Orchestra in October 2010 and in a powerful solo recital in January 2012. 4pm. $20-$44.

27 monday

classical, sPiRitualA Window To Medieval Music w/ Benjamin Bagby - Downtown Library Multi-Purpose RoomVocalist, harper and scholar Ben-jamin Bagby, ensemble leader of Sequentia, an international group of singers and instrumentalists of medieval music, will discuss the life and music of Saint Hildegard von Bingen, a unique mystical voice from 12th-century Germany. 7pm. Free.

music


Mozart Birthday BashSaturday, January 25 / Michigan TheaterWho doesn’t love a bit of the ol’ Wolfgang? The Ann Arbor Symphony will cel-ebrate master Mozart’s birthday with a semi-staged performance of one of his classics, Cosi Fan Tutte. Loosely translated as “The School for Lovers,” this hu-morous opera employs comedy, with a plot full of Italian fiance-swapping. The performance’s raucous, libertine dramedy celebrates Mozart at his best. 8pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. $12-60. 734-994-4801. a2so.com—JS

30 thursdayJazz, BLues & R&BFred Hersch Trio - Lydia Mendelssohn TheatreProclaimed by Vanity Fair as “the most arrestingly innova-tive pianist in jazz over the last decade,” Fred Hersch balances his internationally recognized instrumental and improvisa-tional skills with significant achievements as a composer, bandleader, and theatrical con-ceptualist. 7:30pm. Free.

31 januaryacoustic, FoLk & ethnicAnn Arbor Folk Festival - Hill AuditoriumFor in-depth coverage and in-terviews with Folk Fest artists, visit pg. 8 - 14.

cont. from page 23


I am Jack’s smirking revenge This 90’s cult classic by Oscar-winning director David Fincher [Se7en, House of Cards] introduced a generation of young men to the joys of bare-knuckle boxing, nihilism, and the process of making soap. Yes, Fight Club, based off the Chuck Palahniuk novel, is a gritty psychological drama set apart by its black humor, witty dialog and unprecedented sense of gritty style. The film stars Edward Norton as an unnamed narrator drawn into the world of underground boxing by the char-ismatic Tyler Durden, played by Brad Pitt. Helena Bonham Carter, Jared Leto and Meat Loaf also join Fincher’s cast of whimsical goons and junkies. No self-respecting film buff can go without seeing this hyper-quotable masterpiece. Saturday, January 11, Midnight. $7. 233 South State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.org—JS

11 saturdayCold Eyes2pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.org Free. Ha Yoon-ju becomes the new-est member to a unit within the Korean Police Forces Special Crime Department that special-izes in surveillance activities on high profile criminals. She teams up with Hwang Sang-Jun, the veteran leader of the unit, and tries to track down James who is the cold-hearted leader of an armed criminal organization.

14 tuesdayCEW Celebration of Women and Film7pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.org Free. The evening will include a free program of short films by and about women. Oscar-winning director, Cynthia Wade will be on hand to discuss the films, especially her documentary, Mondays at Racine. The event is free, but registration is requested.

15 wednesdayKinsey7pm. $8-10. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.orgWritten and directed by Oscar-winner Bill Condon, Kinsey examines sex researcher Alfred Kinsey. Following the film screening, Sandra Cole, Ph.D.,will give a brief presenta-tion on a wide variety of topics relating to the Kinsey Institute and the ongoing cultural con-cerns of sexual health.

18 saturdayThe Berlin File2pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.org Free. Ung Jin-soo, a South Korean in-telligence agent, comes across an unidentifiable operative, while surveilling a North Korean weapons deal in Berlin. The mystery figure is a North Korean secret agent, Pyo Jong-seong, whose information cannot be found on any intelligence database.

21 tuesdayElemental7:30pm. $10. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.org Elemental tells the story of three individuals united by their deep connection with nature - driven to confront some of

the most pressing ecological challenges of our time. The film follows Rajendra Singh, an Indian government of-ficial gone rogue, on a 40-day pilgrimage down the once pristine Ganges river, now pol-luted and dying.

23 thursdaySundance Film Festival Award Winner: American Promise6:30pm. Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free.American Promise is an intimate and provocative account, recorded over 12 years, of the experiences of two middle-class African-American boys who entered a very prestigious and historically white private school on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

26 sundayAnswer This!7pm. Donations accepted. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.orgA special fundraising screening with proceeds to benefit Food Gatherers and the Michigan Theater. Brothers and Ann Arbor natives Chris and Mike Farah shot Answer This! in Ann Arbor in 2009 and the film had its world premiere in 2010.

28 tuesdaySundance Shorts7pm. $15. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.orgTo round out the Sundance ex-perience the Michigan Theater will screen Sundance Shorts, a collection of the best shorts from the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.com. Also screen-ing Wednesday, January 29.

30 thursdaySFFUSA 2014: Infinitely Polar Bear7:30pm. $19.45. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.orgA manic-depressive mess of a father who tries to win back his wife by attempting to take full responsibility of their two young, spirited daughters, who don’t make the overwhelming task any easier. As in previous years, cast and crew members from the film will attend the event and answer audience questions after the screening.

film

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theater

How did you know of her work?Alissa auditioned for Brill. At the time, I was thinking

quite a bit about County Line, and I had a pretty specific voice in mind for the main character. When I heard Alissa read, all my ideas about County Line really crystallized around her. After Sarah Leahy was cast as Brill, I got in touch with Alissa and told her I was writing something with her in mind.

Can you talk about who/what you drew on for these rich characters and their interactions?

I don’t have kids and I was never a teenage girl; so it’s not a relationship I’ve experienced. I know I don’t tend to think in terms of gender differences when I’m writing, but rather about commonalities. I think there’s a lot more overlap between people than there is distance, so that may be part of it.

Lois has not had it easy even before theplay begins, and endures a great deal inthe course of the play...

I find that the stories that resonate most with me are ones in which people ultimately come together, rather than wind up isolated. While Lois spends the bulk of the play being failed by the institutions designed to protect her, she survives because of her relationship with Darius that leads to her connection with her uncle. The characters who don’t fare as well are isolated, without that overall connection.

David Wells’ new play, County Line will run at the Performance Network from January 16 (Thursday) to Feb-ruary 16 (Sunday). The play has already received national recognition. It has earned an Edgerton Foundation New American Play Award, and is one of six plays selected for the upcoming National New Play Network Showcase. Last year, Performance Network staged another Wells play, Brill.

The description of County Line calls it acoming-of-age story. Brill was, in a sense, also a coming-of-age story.

Wells: You’re right, there are elements of that in both plays. The thing is, though, I wasn’t thinking in those terms for either play, though. It seems that most stories with a protagonist in his/her formative years could get the ‘coming of age’ label. Both plays are similar in that they feature a young woman going through life-affecting situations.Phil Powers had the lead role in Brill and he’ll also be in County Line. Did you have him in mind as you were writing the play?

I had not been picturing Phil while writing County Line, but I was picturing Alissa Nordmoe, who plays Lois, the young woman telling the story. Alissa has this great authenticity and honesty, which is something I was really shooting for in the character of Lois.

Theater of maturityCounty Line offers a real coming-of-age storyby Sandor Slomovits

Artistic Director, David Wolber. He directed David Wells' "Brill" last season and worked with County Line's set designer and costume designer on the critically acclaimed Dead Man's Shoes.


theater

Daddy issues A young girl—a child born from the union between a Vietnamese woman and an American GI—searches high and low for her father. So begins the story of Lanford Wilson’s Redwood Curtain. When she finds a homeless veteran living in the redwood forests of Northern California, her obsession and his reclusiveness collide. Wilson is a Pulitzer Prize-win-ning playwright, and Redwood Curtain is a shining example of sharp wit, taking a scalpel to the harsh realities of life in America for our veterans. Opens Thursday, January 16 through March 15, 8pm. $27-42. The Purple Rose Theatre, 137 Park St. Chel-sea. 734-433-7673. purplerosetheatre.org—JS

2 thursdayBill Bushart8pm. $6-$12. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 314 E. Liberty St. 734-996-9080. aacomedyclub.comBill Bushart is one of the top acts in the Detroit area; A Michi-gan native, Bill has traveled the Midwest comedy circuit for the past five years. His repertoire of one-liners and high-energy stage shenanigans are one-of-a-kind. Runs through Saturday, January 4

5 sundayAuditions for RecklessA2CT Rehearsal Studio, 322 W. Ann St. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org Ann Arbor Civic Theatre will be holding auditions for the comedy Reckless. Anyone auditioning only needs to show up for one audition, but should be available for call backs. Call to schedule an audition. Audi-tions held through Wednesday, January 8.

7 tuesdayBullet Catch8pm. $40. Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin Ave. 734-763-3333. ums.org/performancesA stunt so dangerous that Hou-dini refused even to attempt it, the magic trick known as the Bullet Catch has claimed the lives of at least 12 illusionists, assistants, and spectators since its conception in 1613. Writer and performer Rob Drummond explores the history of the Bul-let Catch. Runs through Sunday, January 12

9 thursdayMarc Ryan8pm. $9-$14. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 314 E. Liberty St. 734-996-9080. aacomedyclub.comComedian Marc Ryan’s live stand up show incorporates his unique take on the world communicated through hilarious personal observations. Runs through Saturday, January 11. Additional Friday and Satur-day shows will be starting at 10:30pm.

16 thursdayKira Soltanovich8pm. $10-$15. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 314 E. Liberty St. 734-996-9080. aacomedyclub.comBorn in the former Soviet Union, and raised by immigrant parents in San Francisco, Kira Soltanovich has plenty to laugh about. Whether it’s stand-up comedy, sketch, hidden camera or improv, Kira keeps nightclub and television audiences laugh-ing. Runs through Saturday, January 18. Friday and Saturday later showings will be at 10:30pm.

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23 thursdayPeter Berman8pm. $9-$14. Ann Arbor Com-edy Showcase, 314 E. Liberty St. 734-996-9080. aacomedy-club.com Peter Berman wanted to be a stand up comic since a very young age; He started his comedy career at open mic nights at the Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase. Eventually he was opening shows for Tim Allen, Paul Reiser, and Jerry Seinfeld. Runs through Saturday, January 25. Additional Friday and Satur-day skits will begin at 10:30pm

24 fridayIrrational7pm. $7. Eastern Michigan Univer-sity Quirk Theatre, 124 Quirk Hall, Ypsilanti. 734-487-1220. emich.edu/emutheatreThe world premiere of a true ancient Greek mathematician love-and-death musical. Also runs Saturday, January 25.

30 thursdayNext to Normal8pm. Thurs. $19, F-Su. $25, $22 seniors, $13 students. Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin Ave. 734-971-2228. a2ct.orgThis Pulizer Prize and Tony-winning rock musical explores the lives of a suburban family as it copes with crisis and mental illness. Runs through Sunday, February 2.

Events updated

daily!


art

The Ann Arbor Art Center, founded in 1909, is one of Michigan’s oldest visual arts organizations, and, maybe, its most vibrant. It hosts monthly art exhibitions for the public, teaches studio art and art appreciation courses, organizes youth art camps throughout the year, runs an outstanding Gallery Shop promoting regional artists, and puts on special events—parties, really—such as Artini, Paint the Town and the Ann Arbor Art and Brew. Opening on Friday, January 3 and running through Sunday, February 16 is perhaps the edgiest, most politically charged show in the Art Center’s history: “DRONES.” Yes, those drones, the ones that are blowing up bad guys and—oops—sometimes an innocent bystander by mistake. They’re also ideal for surveillance at home and abroad to an extent that would have given George Orwell cold sweats. And there’s so much more to learn and think about drones, which is the purpose of this exciting, must-see exhibition.

Drones may be a technology just as disruptive as were the train, steamship, automobile and computer. Their flight can be controlled remotely or pre-programmed with global positioning like the Amazon Books drones featured recently on “60 Minutes.” Same day delivery! There are Micro Air Vehicles that are bird or even insect size that can work in “swarms.” So-called hummingbird drones are the size of quarters and predator drones are 68 feet long. Drones can monitor pipelines and water levels, map archeological digs, pollution and forest fires. They can track wildlife and poachers, search for fugitives or people who are lost, and drop supplies. Someday, no doubt, we’ll see them in the Big House giving us up close and personal gridiron shots of our Wolverine Victors Valiant.

The swarm“DRONES” is a multimedia spectacle featuring 41 local,

regional, national and international artists who explore the phenomenon of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from 41 unique perspectives. The show includes “Drone Shadows 004” by British artist, James Bridle, which appeared recently at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., just a few blocks away from the White House. It is an eerie, life-size, crime-scene-like white outline of a reaper drone.

Also in the show is a selection from Adam Har-vey’s Stealth Wear, a drone-proof cloth-ing line. It’s made of lightweight, flex-ible metalized fabric to reflect heat and conceal the wearer’s thermal signature, and lined in silk to add to the flowy effect. Stealth Wear is a real collection, including a burka, a hijab and a hoodie. How real is it? The garments cost from $500 to $600 each.

Drones for thought“DRONES” is brought to us by the Gallery Project, now

in its eighth year, a flourishing contemporary art collective run by artist volunteers. The show is curated by Rocco De-Pietro and Gloria Pritschet, Gallery Project founders and contributors to the exhibit. The Art Center is the second stop for “DRONES” which was a smash hit when it ap-peared in Detroit’s Eastern Market last year.

Perhaps my personal favorite of the show is by Adam Shiverdecker, a potter and currently professor at the Uni-versity of Toledo and Resident Artist at Greenwich House Pottery in New York City. He has his Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of South Carolina and has ex-hibited as far afield as China and Australia. Although he ap-preciates the sleekness, power and materiality of machines of war, Adam is a dyed in the wool pacifist and envisions a world in which all military arsenals are pushed into the sea. For this exhibition he has taken the form of a predator drone and denatured its surface with irregular amounts of clay, thus allowing for an arbitrary but inevitable process of decay. It works for me, even as we are being ushered into an unpredictable and as yet unfathomable era of the drones.

“DRONES” will be on display at The Ann Arbor Art Center from Friday, January 3 through Sunday,

February 16. 117 W Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org Free.

art

Learning to love the droneThe visuals of the vicious droneby Louis Meldman

Deteriorating drone by Adam Shiverdecker

Unknown Site No. 11 by Viktor Witkowsk


art

ongoing Dennis Turner exhibiTion Chelsea Center for the Arts, 400 Congdon St., Chelsea. 734-531-6565. dancingdoggallery.biz Free. View concepts and drawings for Dennis Turner’s new book Before Once Upon a Time. Dennis’s art reflects an inner world populated by people and creatures you don’t normally see walking down Main Street, USA. Runs through Saturday, January 25.

6 mondayTable of ConTenTs Clay Gallery, 335 S. Main St. 734-662-7927. claygallery.org Free. Clay Gallery is hosting an exhibition of dinnerware by artists from Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana juried by

Dr.Margaret Carney, founder of the Dinnerware Museum. See Art Note on pg. 30.

10 friday Drones: opening reCepTion 7pm. Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org Free. See feature on Pg.29 for more details. Opens Friday, January 3 and runs through Sunday, February 16

!6 + 16 opening reCepTion 7pm. WSG Gallery, 306 S. Main St.734-761-2287. wsg-art.com Free. This exhibit features the art of the WSG members and the work of 16 other artists chosen to partner with them. Ex-hibit opens Tuesday, January 7 through Saturday, February 15. cont. on page 30

11 saturdayaffeCTing The auDienCe: anThony DisCenza, aurélien fromenT, anD Dora garCía 3pm. UMMA, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free. The three works selected for Affecting the Audience: Antho-ny Discenza, Aurelien Froment, and Dora Garcia emphasize the construction of images and effects as an experience in the cultural domain. Runs through Thursday, April 17.

12 sundayin ConversaTion: reConsTruCTing fragmenTs 3pm. UMMA, Irving Stenn, Jr. Family Gallery, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free. Enjoy an exploration of the Islamic world through a unique selection of artifacts on loan from the Kelsey Museum of Archeology. Courtney Lesoon, Masters student in Middle Eastern and North African Studies at UM, will lead an investigation of how historical narratives can be reconstructed by considering earthenware, glass, lustreware, and metal-work.

16 thursdayrafael lozano- hemmer 5pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.org Free. Mexican-Canadian media artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer creates interactive installations that are at the intersection of architecture and performance art. Using technologies such as robotics, computerized surveil-lance and telematic networks his light and shadow works are antimonuments for alien agency.

17 fridayTable of ConTenTs opening reCepTion 6pm. Clay Gallery, 335 S. Main St. 734-662-7927. claygallery.org Free. See note on pg. 29. Runs through Saturday, February 15

all is Well: mixeD meDia Works of sue finley Opening 7-10pm. Dancing Dog Gallery 302 E. Liberty. 734-531-6565 dancingdoggallery.com Free The opening reception for Sue Finley, a locally and nationally recognized photographer and mixed media artist. Exhibit runs through Saturday, February 22.

Dennis Turner


art

18 saturdayJohn Schwarz: new work Opening 5-8pm. River Gallery, 120 S. Main St., Chelsea. 734-433-0826. chelsearivergallery.com Free. For more info, see pg. 31.

25 saturday

DoriS Duke’S Shangri La: architecture, LanD-Scape, anD iSLamic art 3pm. UMMA Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free. This is the first exhibition to present Duke’s five-acre Hono-lulu estate and its collections to audiences throughout the continental United States. The exhibition illustrates Duke’s

fascination with Islamic art, her extensive travels in Muslim countries. Runs through Sun-day, May 4. 26 sundayencounterS with iSLamic art Lecture by um profeSSor chriStiane gruber 3pm. UMMA Helmut Stern Auditorium, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free. Dr. Christiane Gruber will introduce audiences to looking at Islamic art with particular attention to cycles of revival and innovation, as seen in the UMMA exhibition of Doris Duke’s Shangri La: Architec-ture, Landscape, and Islamic Art.

cont. from page 29

Serving it up with StyleIn conjunction with ann arbor’s restaurant week, the clay gallery has organized an exhibition of artist-made dinnerware to whet your appetite. Place settings from thirteen ceramic artists were chosen to be included in the regional ceramic competition, table of con-tents, juried by Dr. margaret carney, ceramic historian and founding director of Ann Arbor’s new Dinnerware Museum at 500 N. Main Street. As Carney says in her juror’s statement, “Dinner-ware is ubiquitous. It provides a window on our material culture, norms and attitudes towards food and dining.” The show will run from Mon-day, January 6 through Saturday, February 15: an artist reception will be held on Friday, January 17, 6-8pm. Clay Gallery, 335 S. Main St. 734-662-7927. claygallery.org Free—Jt

Calla Lillies (for Frida)


art

John Schwarz makes big sculptures. Among those familiar with his work, there’s a running joke: If it’s not heavy, John didn’t make it.

“Everything I make is heavy,” he said with a laugh.Schwarz, 54, has sculpted space men, exotic deep-sea fish

and even flying dragons—winged creations reminiscent of Leonardo Da Vinci’s flying machines. The materi-als he’s used have ranged from golf clubs and old skis to glass bottles and a snow blower. All of which he gathered from ga-rage sales, recycling centers or by walking down the street.

“I’m always looking. I’m always collecting things,” he said.

His latest exhibition—on display at the River Gallery in Chelsea—fea-tures a series of robots built from assembled parts, over 90 percent of which is recyclable.

Though his pieces can have a random, chaotic feel, he applies the same discipline and technique he learned studying ceramics in art school, first at Eastern Michigan University and later, for his Master of Fine Art degree, at the University of Michigan. For Schwarz, as-sembling objects is often no different than a paint-er deciding which color to select from his pallete.

“You have to think it through. Folks assume you can just put anything together, and you really can’t,” he said.

A real iron manHis passion for machines began at a young age. With a

NASA engineer for a father, it was instinctual for him to bolt together incompatible items, learning what looked good and what didn’t—a practice that serves him well to this day. As an avid science fiction fan who found refuge in making art, the seeds for his current mechanical work were planted long ago.

Still, for most of his artistic career, he kept art and machines separate. He stuck with clay, the medium he studied in school. That is, until his wife Patti co-created the River Gallery in 2000 to showcase her husband’s work. Shortly after the gallery opened, Patti turned to John with an unusual request. “We’re going to need some funky stuff,” he remem-bers her telling him. His response was ca- s u a l . “Well, I can make funky stuff out of any-thing,” he recalls saying.

He began bolting and welding objects together, employing skills honed from years of sculpting experience, creating structures befitting a scene from the Star Wars films or the Star Trek television series, both of which he loved as a kid.

From there, pieces began to sell. Soon, he was responsing to requests for his pieces from places as far away as Florida and South Korea. Schwarz did not stop. “I thought, ‘Oh my gosh. I need to keep making these things,’ ” he said.

One piece of his wound up in the Ripley’s Believe or not International Museum. His piece “Reluctant Hero,” which depicts a robot morphing into a fly-ing super hero, found a local home in the University

of Michigan Ross School of Business, where the piece has taken on a bit of mythic significance for business students: They touch the sculpture before final exams for good luck.

Switching mediaHad he not switched mediums, he might never have seen this type of notoriety.

“I never would have done this with clay. There’s a potter under every rock between here and San Diego,” he said, adding that though others do similar work with found objects, he distin-guishes himself by incorporating clay, maintaining his roots even while con-

structing metallic, futuristic designs.“There are a lot of artists who as-

semble robots with cans and vacuum cleaners,” he said. “The thing that I do

differently is I use clay in a lot of mine. I’ll use clay fins for a dinosaur or a fish sculpture.”

Schwarz says one of the hardest obstacles to over-come is the eventual distance between him and the

work. After all that time spent scavenging, collecting, assembling, reassembling and deciding, say, which pair

of car headlights make the best eyes for a giant-squid sculpture, it can be difficult to let go.

“You have this sense of loss,” he said. “Most of [my sculp-tures] I’ll never see again. It’s a weird detachment that you

go through with art.”“New Work” on display Saturday, January

18 through Saturday March 1. Opening Reception

Saturday January 18, 5–8 pm. River Gallery, 120 S Main St., Chelsea.

734-433-0826. chelsearivergallery.com

We have liftoffThe metallic brain-children of John Schwarzby Jacob Axelrad


Each year, Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads launches a two-month literary awareness campaign, spearheaded by a single book. Normally, the program features a work of nonfiction—not so this year. 2014’s selection is Between Shades of Gray, the debut novel by Michigan native Ruta Sepetys, exploring her Lithuanian heritage. The novel became an international bestseller in 2011, and racked up awards including being named a New York Times Notable Book, a Carnegie Medal Nominee and the winner of the Golden Kite Award. Current exchanged words with Sepetys about the origin of her story—and herself.

Were you born in the mitten? Where did you attend school?

Yes, I was born and raised in Michigan. I attended Harrison High School in Farmington Hills and graduated from Hillsdale College. I am very proud to be from Michigan!

Can you outline a particular moment, or spark of insight behind Between Shades of Gray?

Growing up with the name ‘Ruta Sepetys’ always raised questions. People constantly asked about the origin of my name, so discussion of my Lithuanian roots has been a strong part of my identity since childhood. In 2005, while visiting family members in Lithuania, I was told that some of my grandfather’s family had been deported to Siberia during Stalin’s reign. At that time, I was not aware of the Baltic deportations. I began to research the topic and was shocked when I discovered how many Lithuanians, Latvians, and Estonians had suffered, yet somehow the history was still fairly unknown. I became inspired to share this part of history.

What was the most difficult part of writing the novel?

The interviews with the survivors were the most difficult, who would share experiences and information that they had kept as secrets for half a century. I sat down

with people who had been sentenced to death, brutality, and torture, yet somehow managed to

survive. It was extremely emotional when they finally shared their stories.

The cleansing of the Baltic people was not discussed in America until the 90’s. Why?

After the war, the Baltic countries remained Soviet occupied for fifty years. People weren’t able to speak about what they had experienced. If they did, they risked arrest or recrimination by the Soviets. The Baltic countries regained their independence in the early 1990’s and fifty years of silence had taken its toll. Many survivors have written incredible memoirs and accounts of their time in exile, but very few are written in English. I hope that the real stories will soon be translated into additional languages to allow a wider audience to read them.

Did you imagine that your first novel would win prestigious awards and go on to be an international bestseller?

Never! I can’t express how grateful I am. I wanted to share the story of a hidden piece of history and I thought the audience would be very limited. Teachers, librarians and booksellers have put the book into the hands of many readers who would never choose to read historical fiction.

Between Shades of Gray is only the second work of fiction to win Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads in twelve years—why do you think that is, and what makes a good work of fic-tion?

I’m so honored that Between Shades of Gray was chosen. Perhaps non-fiction is a popular choice because it often speaks to human experience rather than trend? In terms of Between Shades of Gray, I tell people that I wrote the book, but history wrote the story. This story belongs to the Baltics and those who experienced Stalin’s terror. In terms of what makes good fiction, I enjoy stories that raise questions but don’t necessarily give all of the answers. I appreciate fiction that inspires me to research a topic and discover further information on my own.

Between Shades of Gray, liveMichigan’s Ruta Sepetys, and her literary successby Joseph Schafer

Each year, Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads desig-nates a book for the local literary community to gather around and discuss during Janu-ary and February. At the opening event, the program welcomes Ruta Sepetys, author of Between Shades of Gray. Sepetys will be on hand for signings and to discuss to her award-winning international bestseller. Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Reads will also schedule further discussions throughout January and February. Tuesday, January 21, 7pm. Towns-ley Auditorium, Washtenaw Community College, 4800 E. Huron River .734-973-3300. Aaypsireads.org Free.—JS

current reads


wednesday 8An Evening of Poetry and Written Word7-9pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. cwpoetrycircle.tumblr.com Free. Poetry workshop. All writers welcome to share and discuss their poetry or short fiction. Hosted by Joe Kelty, Ed Morin, and Dave Jibson (blogmaster). Bring six copies of your work.

thursday 9Author Event: Harry Dolan7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Free. Local author, Harry Dolan will be at Ni-cola’s Books for a reading and signing of his new mystery, The Last Dead Girl.

monday 13Laurie Halse7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Free. Bestselling young adult author, Laurie Halse Anderson will be at Nicola’s Books for a discussion and signing of her new book, The Impossible Knife of Memory, in which a young girl and her father deal with his PTSD after he returns from Iraq. Halse Anderson is also the author of the National Book Award finalists, Speak and Chains.

thursday 16Kevin Roberts 7-8:30pm. Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room, 343 S. 5th Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free. Kevin Roberts will discuss his book, Mov-ers, Dreamers, and Risk Takers: Unlocking the Power of ADHD, as well as recent ADHD research. This event will include a book sale and signing.

saturday 18Writing Workshop: The Fundamentals of Plot2pm. Pittsfield Branch: Program Room, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. Free. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free. Local science fiction writer Margaret Yang will discuss how to structure a novel or shorter work, how to see the big picture story arc, how to start and end a story in the right place, and how to avoid com-mon writing traps like infodumps and other dull spots. Participants will make a five-sentence outline providing a blueprint for a story.

wednesday 22An Evening of Poetry and Written Word: Featured Reader: M. L. Liebler7-9pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. cwpoetrycircle.tumblr.com Free. M. L. Liebler, author of 13 books includ-ing the award winning Wide Awake in Someone Else’s Dream, will read. All writers welcome to read their own or other favorite poetry or short fiction afterward at open mic.

sunday 264pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Free. The Ann Arbor Storyteller’s Guild meets the fourth Sunday of every month to share stories. Tellers and listeners welcome.

monday 27Author Event: Malcolm Gladwell7pm. $15-$150. Michigan Theater, 603 East Liberty St. 734-668-8643. michtheater.com Nicola’s Books presents an evening with NYT bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell at the Michigan Theater. The bestselling author of The Tipping Point and Outliers will be discussing his latest book, David and Goliath.

thursday 30Author Event: James Mitchell Discusses His New Book: The Walrus and the Elephants: John Lennon’s Years of Revolution7-8:30pm. Downtown Library: Multi-Purpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free. Join author and journalist James Mitchell to celebrate the release of The Walrus and the Elephants: John Lennon’s Years of Revolution. A reading and discussion will be followed by an audience Q&A and book sale and signing.

LocaL Reads


get healthy

The ancient art of yoga was developed to achieve physical, mental and spiritual harmony. But a typical American man may say something about “silly poses” and chanting “Ohm.” A2 Yoga challenges those misconceptions. The local yoga studio offers over 40 different classes each week, including a men's yoga—humorously called “bro-ga,” a class designed just for men.

Dina Hough, co-owner and instructor at A2 Yoga, says the Yoga-MAN class helps dispel prominent stereotypes associated with yoga and gives guys a chance to actually try it. “The primary benefit is to create a healthy environment for men to learn about how to adjust their bodies without social stereotypes or physical contradictions,” she says. Dina explains that the poses and movements in the class cater to the male body, which has a unique anatomical structure and center of gravity.

The class is a challenging workout that requires firm balance and strong muscles. Though it leaves many practitioners exhausted afterwards, it also helps clear their mind of daily stresses and clutter.

Dina says the class is part of the studio’s commitment to variety and acceptance. “It honors the history of yoga and the diversity of desires students have for different styles of classes and teachers,” she says.

Variety and purpose A2 Yoga employs 20 teachers who

work in almost every aspect of yoga, including classes focused on women only, athletes, cardiac health, beginners, pre-natal and prana vinyasa (an advanced form). “We understand that many individuals want to take care of themselves physically but don’t know

where to start may not be able to afford it,” Dina says.

Many of the classes are also free as part of the studio’s Community Commitment program, which supports local non-profit organizations.

The idea started with the A2 Yoga’s founder, Ana Hough (Dina’s sister), who opened the studio 10 years ago as Downtown Yoga. The original space was in the second floor of The Mail Shoppe, their mother’s small business. With the help of their parents, the sisters moved the studio to its current location, a former furniture factory on Commerce Boulevard.

“It’s truly a family-run business,” Dina says. During those formative years both she and her sister received a lot of support from the Ann Arbor community while they were training for their yoga teacher certifications. “[My sister and I] have both lived moments of great struggle financially. Not only were there services in the community that helped us to not give up but I was, thankfully, encouraged to use them,” Dina says. “I knew one day I would be able to give back.”

Through the studio’s Community Commitment classes, practitioners can donate to A2 Yoga, and each business quarter the studio gives 100 percent of those donations directly to a local non-profit. Dina says that charity is also an overlooked but important branch of yoga, and she hopes that the community will gain much from A2 Yoga’s classes and charity. “By giving back, we are supporting the community that supports us.”Classes at A2 Yoga last 60 to 90 minutes;

prices and start times vary. Sign up online or call for more information.

2030 Commerce Blvd. 734-216-4006. a2yoga.net

Your home stretchBro-ga and more at A2 yogaRuss Axon

Photos by Marisa Rubin

14 tuesday Frankly Speaking about Multiple Myeloma 6-8pm. University of Michigan Cancer Center, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr. 734-975-2500. mcancer.org Free This workshop will cover the latest treatments for multiple myeloma. In addition to discussing the most recent discoveries, learn about side-effects and side-effect man-agement. Please RSVP for this event.

17 friday Aerial Fabric Workshop Series 7-9pm. $70. The Aviary, 4720 S. State St. 734-726-0353. a2aviary.com This two-part workshop will focus on precision and technique to help you become more graceful and add more personal expression to your work. Learn how to work with gravity with spinal propul-sion, momentum, and economic movement. Bring a water bottle. Participants should have at least one year of serious study. Also on Friday January 18.

25 saturday Twerkshop 6-7:30pm. $20. The Aviary, 4720 S. State St. 734-726-0353. a2aviary.com Twerking is all over the internet and has made its way into the clubs, and party scenes. Learn basic twerk moves as well as more advanced ones. Each move will be broken down and then put together into a mini routine. Booty shorts or leggings are recommended, and don’t forget to bring a water bottle. Reservations can be made online.

28 tuesday Addiction and Suicide Prevention 7:30-9pm. St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center, 5305 Elliott Dr., Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725. dawnfarm.org Free This program will raise awareness of the signs of suicidal thinking and describe ways to offer support and obtain help for those contemplat-ing suicide. Part of the Dawn Farm Education Series.

health events


Professional relief Michigan lawmakers are considering enhancing a student loan repayment program for doctors and dentists to keep more primary care providers in the state. Senate Bills 648 and 649 would give graduates of various dental and health care schools in Michigan more money to pay back their student loans if they agree to practice in the state's underserved areas. The bills’ supporters believe the program addresses both the shortage of health care professionals in Michigan as well as sky-rocketing student debt. This year alone, the state has increased the program's budget from $1 million to nearly $2.5 million. -GMK

Draw something Comic Artist Jay Fosgitt is the creator of popular comic books such as “Bodie Troll” and online graphic novels like “Dead Duck”. On Sunday, January 5 he will host a Comic Artists Forum in the 4th Floor Meeting Room of the Downtown Library. This is a forum for comic enthusiasts and cartoonists—from beginners to professionals. Fosgitt, who has contributed illustrations to Dreamworks’ Animation Magazine and the forthcoming Seasme Street comic book, will assist the class in learning better techniques for drawing and story creation. Don’t forget your drawing tools and be prepared to learn—even advanced illustrators can take away knowledge from this special event. 1pm. Free. Intended for adults and teens (grade 6 and up). 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org—GMK

get healthy everything else

1 wednesday

Poker Tournament 5pm. $10-$500. Heidelberg Poker Room, 215 N Main. St. 734-834-2237. 1800letsplay.net. Texas hold ‘em and blackjack for players of all levels. With tournaments, free dinners each night, and other nightly spe-cials. Net proceeds donated to a different charity each week. Also on January 3 & 4.

5 sundayComic Artists Forum with Jay Fosgitt 1-3pm. Downtown Library: 4th Floor Meeting Room, 343 S. 5th Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Jay Fosgitt, creator of the graphic novel Dead Duck and a previously contributing artist to Dreamworks’ Animation Magazine, will discuss his com-ics, inspirations and common themes. See above for more info.


crosswordeverything else 11 saturdayNew Year’s Workshop for Mindful Parents 2-4pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net Chuck Barbieri, Mindful Parent-ing Coach for the past 10 years, will present a work-shop that will explore how to become a more mindful parent from the inside out. Examining obstacles and opportunities to become more mindfully present with children. Identify specific new year’s resolutions to help you become the parent you want to be! Register by e-mailing [email protected] or phone 734-686-2834 by January 8.

12 sunday

DIY Spa 2-3pm. Pittsfield Branch: Program Room, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free Learn how to make relaxing homemade spa items that will impress your friends. This event is intended for adults and teens. 14 tuesday

The Cross St. Chronicles Variety Show & Open Mic 7-9pm. Ugly Mug Cafe & Roastery, 317 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-484-4684. uglymugypsi.com Free The second Tuesday of every

month, enjoy an evening of spoken word, music and an all-around variety show. This month’s show features Julie Babcock, Andrew Sigworth, Luis Anderson, Jess Salisbury and Craig Combs. Open mic signup at 7pm. If interested in performing, contact Craig at [email protected].

16 thursdayNetworking for Small Businesses 6-8pm. Cleary University, 3750 Cleary Dr., Howell. 734-929-9091. annarborscore.com Free This workshop will be perfect for small business owners who are looking for tips on networking. Use social media to network while reducing marketing costs. Lecture and Gallery Opening: 4,000 Years for Choice: Changing Culture, Creating History, and Honoring Stories of Reproductive Freedom 4pm. 2239 Lane Hall, 204 S. State St. This lecture expands upon the age-old practices of abor-tion and contraception as a means to reclaim reproductive freedom. 17 fridayDinner and a Movie with Out Loud 8-10pm. $15, advance/ $18, at door/ $12, for students/seniors/ free, for

unemployed people and children under 4. Towsley Auditorium Morris Lawrence Building, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. 734-265-0740. olconline.org Let Out Loud take you on a musical date night! It will be an evening full of deliciously entertaining music performed by Washtenaw County’s origi-nal mixed LGBT chorus. Ballroom Dance Party Group lesson at 7pm, followed by open dancing at 8pm. Entire evening, $15/ open dancing, $10. Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse Dr. 734-644-1485. aactmad.org Spend an evening dancing the Tango, the Cha Cha, Rumba and more! Become a ball-room expert after learning the Foxtrot. If your birthday is in December or January, open dancing is free. Refreshments are potluck, so bring your favorites to share.

18 saturday 27th Annual Antique Show 9am-4pm. Liberty School, 7265 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 734-944-0713. salinehistory.org Free Juried show and sale of American furniture, folk art, postcards, quilts, tableware, kitchenware, pottery, linens, books, jewelry, and more! Over 40 dealers will be pres-ent. Concessions available.

road trip— Detroit & ToledoThe Fillimore Detroit / Saturday, January 11Jamey Johnson One of Nashville's best-kept Country secrets, Jamey Johnson has written songs for Trace Adkins, George Strait and others, though he keeps his best tracks—rollicking anthems like "The Dollar" and "Rebelicious" for himself. He's earned Grammy nomina-tions for his blend of mainstream rock and outlaw country in the vein of Willie Nelson. Saturday, January 11, 7:30pm. $25-35. The Fillimore Detroit, 2115 Woodward Ave. Detroit. 313-961-5451, thefillmoredetroit.com

Bar 145 / Sunday, January 12Bar Wars Live entertainment will be provided at this befit for Paws and Whiskers Shelter of To-ledo—come for the charity, but stay for the excellent burgers (veggie and carnivorous) and fine bourbon. To sweeten the pot, Cur-rent magazine staff will guest bartend. Put bottoms up with us. Sunday, January 12, 7-11pm. $5, free with unopened pet item. 5305 Monroe St., Toledo. 419-593-0073. bar145toledo.com

Toledo Repertoire Theater / Friday, January 17Noises OffThis play-within-a-play chronicles one mot-ley true of actors on tour, while romance and incompetence cause their on-stage performances to implode. With its innova-tive rotating set, ping-ponging narrative and ridiculous ensemble cast, Noises off might be the most hilarious of all Neil Simon's work.Friday, January 17, $20 adults, $18 seniors, $10 students, $5 children. 8pm F-Sa, 2:30pm Su. Runs through Sunday, January 26. The Toledo Repertoire Theatre, 16 10th St., Toledo. 419-243-9277. toledorep.org

The Detroit Institute of Arts / Wednesday, January 22African Artthe Detroit Institute of Arts boasts an impressive collection of African art from across the continent. Volunteer educa-tors will lead tours through the museum's collection, including a chance to see the special exhibition Balance of Power: A Throne for an African Prince.Wednesday, January 22, 4:30pm. The Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave. Detroit. 313-833-7900. dia.org

22 wednesdayThe War on Poverty: A Retrospective 4pm. Hatcher Graduate Library Gal-lery: Room 100, 973 S. University Ave. 734-764-0400. lib.mich.edu Free Martin Luther King’s final book, Where do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community articu-lated a critique of the War on Poverty and related programs. Pointing to the inadequacy of funding and the lack of coordination among federal programs aimed at eradicating poverty, he argued for guaran-teed income for all Americans. On this 50th anniversary of the War on Poverty, we revisit this program and its impact in the context of King’s argument. 25 saturday

HAM Radio Course 9am-3:30pm. $10. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org Join Dan Romanchik of the am-ateur radio station WA2HOM, for this class during which at-tendees will take the examina-tion to receive their technician license. A free study guide is available online at kb6nu.com/tech-manual. Class fee is used to fund improvements at WA2HOM. For registration or information, contact Dan by e-mail at [email protected]. Fourth Saturday Contra and Square Dance: AACTMAD 7pm. $10/ $9, members/$5, students. Concourse Hall, 4531 Concourse Dr. 734-786-8380. aactmad.org Enjoy an evening of contras and squares with music by The Rhythm Billies and calling by Reuven AnafShalom, Ed Vincent, and Marlin Whitaker.

28 tuesday

Learn iMovie with CTN 7-9pm. Downtown Library: Training Center, 343 S. 5th Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free The staff from Community Television Network will teach the basic techniques needed to make high-quality videos. Bring some of your own footage. Intended for Grade 5 - adults. 30 thursdayProfessional Develop-ment Workshop - How Do We Know the Climate is Changing? 9am-3pm. $11. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org Join Susan Kohler of NASA, as she discusses the alarming climate change detected by the use of NASA satellite technol-ogy. Learn about the NASA Climate Time Machine: re-searching air, temperature and sea ice. Attendees will design a satellite using Engineering Design protocols. Registration required.


crosswordJust toss itAcross1. Mated, as horses5. “Beat it”10. Chain with active cultures14. Rock that cannot, in fact, be contained in a lamp15. Like most parental tastes, to children16. Joey Lawrence catchphrase on “Blos-som”17. Place to bake18. Senator Sam who investigated Water-gate19. The I of I.M. Pei20. Where a “Gilligan’s Island” hottie moved after striking it rich?23. “That’s me”24. Having a high BMI26. Gloves worn mostly in spring, summer, and fall29. Heavyweight org. generally assumed to be corrupt32. Havens34. “Children of her type contrive the pur-est philosophies” Nabokov girl35. Herding sheep?38. Ready, as fruit40. Instrument with keys and a bench41. Talk Like a Pirate Day phrase42. What Gaia and Athena use to alert other drivers?45. Child46. Nick who played John Connor in “Terminator 3”47. Buddhist school48. ___ br˚lÈe50. Copperhead, e.g.52. South Korea’s fourth-largest company53. Drag, and a hint to this puzzle’s theme60. Start to wake62. Cry at the county fair63. Ice-T’s wife64. Small iPod option65. Grammy-winning Renaissance man Steve66. Uptight, as it were67. Doesn’t share68. Body images?69. Fall faller

Down1. Oprah’s Life Lift, e.g.2. Sitarist Shankar3. Settled up4. “Fudge”5. Word before donor or bank6. 2006 Pixar hit7. Say you can make it to the party, say8. Continent with about twenty cities larger than New York9. ___ Park, California (site of Facebook’s headquarters)10. Once bitten, ___11. “Q: How does Moses make tea? A: Hebrews it,” e.g.12. Halloween word13. “Yes”21. Right on the map?22. Certain quatrain pattern25. Omnipotent one, in Hebrew26. Colorful Mexican cocktails, in slang27. Dolts28. Evading a question, as it were29. Rachel of “The Constant Gardener”30. Tycho who taught Johannes Kepler

31. Great works, collectively33. “Humble” living space36. Some printers37. Word incorrectly paired with “either”39. Star and director of the biopic “Pollock”43. Nevada city whose Shoshoni name means “pile of rocks”44. CBS drama spun off from “JAG”49. Big name in mobility scooters51. U.K. university where Daniel Libe-

skind trained52. Alan who lost to Obama in 200454. Do really well, as it were55. Explorer on Nickelodeon56. Depend (on)57. Actress Skye of “Say Anything ...”58. Org. with a self-serving category called “student athletes”59. Eisenhower course sport60. “Unbelievable,” in online slang61. Telenovela family member

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Interview by Jordan Killam

Lisa ReyerseGraphic Designer, Toledo Museum of Art

Lisa may look like the girl next door, but her wardrobe suggests otherwise. She’s bubbly and fun to chat with, but also very decisive and serious about her preferences in fashion and style. She works by day to create the brand identity for one of the country’s foremost art institutions, and her clothes indicate that she also has a very strong brand of her own. Lisa’s spatial intelligence helps her pair unexpected garments together. She mixes eras and materials that transport her back to specific points in her own life history. When you see Lisa, odds are, she can tell you a specific story about everything she’s wearing! You are a graphic designer by trade. Does this influence the way you put outfits together?I think my profession has trained my eye to find a simple connection. Whether it it’s color, texture, pattern, etc. I think it also trained me to always carry or wear one thing that really pops. Mixing intensities is something that I like to carry throughout my work and my wardrobe. What is the most daring ensemble you’ve ever worn to work?I try not to get too inspired with my wardrobe when I’m in the office. I think just wearing high-waisted pants throw my coworkers off. Where do you typically shop for original items?I tend to travel a lot and I make it a goal on my travels to try to find at least one signature item while I’m out and about. Recently, I took a spontaneous trip to Vermont via NYC. On the way back, random travel mishaps led me to a town called Cold Spring. There, I found the most amazing vintage shop and scored an amazing alligator clutch. What fashion crime do you often find yourself committing?My most consistent fashion crime has to do with socks. I think socks are an underestimated accessory. I like to wear patterned socks with cute wedges or wooden clogs. Some people can’t handle it. I say, “Why not?! It’s frickin’ cold out!”

By Jordan Killam

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