current november 2014

NOVEMbEr 2014 | FrEE

EXPERTADVICE

HOW TO CrUSH IT AT KArAOKE

BEHIND BARS AbC’S

MUG CLUb

p. 17

THE ODYSSEY

OF POETrY, FICTION,

AND CHICKEN

p.21

AS AmERICAN AS PumPkIN PIE

LESSONS FrOM CULINArY HISTOrIAN

JJ JACObSON

p. 32

2 november 2014 / ecurrent.com

ecurrent.com / november 2014 3

27 theater featureHarold Pinter at the Civic Theaterby Sandor Slomovits

29 art featureIn conversation with Francoise Mouly The power of an image by Brandon Bye

31 lit featureDiane Cook’s dystopian fictionby Russ Brakefield

33 sportsU-M BasketballCan’t come soon enoughby Nick Roumel

online exclusives

current

Warhol On Vinyl

The Record Covers

By Louis W. Meldman

More than 50 designs at

Cranbrook through next March

music feature 21 How to crush it at karaoke

by Brandon Bye

film feature 25Celebrating Polish Cinema

by Nan Bauer

contents august 2014 vol. 24 / no.8contents November 2014

vol. 24 / no.11

Interview: Robyn Hitchcock will play a stripped down acoustic set at The Ark, November 19.We caught up with special guest Lera Lynn about the show.

Poetry and Fiction Contest 8

Chicken Odysseyby Nick Roumel

11

Haven't seen our social media?

Quit depriving yourself

www.Facebook.com/currentmagazine

www.twitter.com/ecurrent

Photo by Lisa Gavan

Cover Photo by Margaret Kelly


^ New Plum Market + Zingerman’s Meijer and Target have Starbucks, and now Plum Market will have Zingerman’s coffee. The new Plum Market planned for Ann Arbor’s North Side will

feature a Zingerman’s coffee bar and outdoor seating area. The grocery store will take over the old Cleary

University Washtenaw Campus location on 3601 Plymouth Road. The store will be open daily from 8am-10pm, and the coffee bar from 6am-10pm.

^ Real Baked Goods now open Real Baked Goods, located at 1232 Packard, is now open for business, serving homemade baked goods from pepperoni rolls to cookies. “We use no mixes and no frozen dough. It’s baking from scratch,” Caldwell said to MLive. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 7am until 1pm. Real Baked Goods, 1232 Packard, Ann Arbor. (734) 646-6087.

^ Literati Bookstore partners with Espresso BarEspresso Bar is relocating after partnering with Literati Bookstore. Espresso Bar will open up above Literati. Espresso Bar and Literati Bookstore will keep the same

hours--10am to 9pm Monday through Thursday; 10am to 10pm on Friday and

Saturday; and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. Literati Bookstore, 124 E. Washington, Ann Arbor. (734) 585-5567.

^ Krazy Jim’s Blimpy BurgerThe dearly missed Blimpy Burger has opened in it’s new location. Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger has resumed business on 304 S. Ashley Street, right next to another beloved dive, The Fleetwood Diner. 11am to 8pm, every day.

^ Falling Water Bookstore and Collectibles ClosingFalling Water Bookstore and Collectibles will not ring in the new year with the rest of Main Street. After nearly three decades of business, the retail store located at 213 S. Main Street will shutter on December 31st as the landlord sells the building. Closing sales align with holiday sales. Deals ensue.

^ Two Wheel Tango has closed its three bike shops after the owner learned the dealer agreement with the store’s primary vendor was ending. The bike shop had locations at 3162 Packard St. in Ann Arbor, 4765 Jackson Road in Scio Township and 6111 N. Canton Center Road in Canton.

^ Vellum’s new menuPandering to the local palate, Vellum has changed their menu to include classic American eats. The restaurant opened last year. Using masterful preparation techniques and a decidedly presentational approach, Vellum served up New American cuisine made from high quality ingredients. Now, they’ll serve Grade A sandwiches, burgers, macaroni and cheese, and baby-back ribs. Open 4pm to 10:30pm, Mon - Sat. 209 S. Main Street, Ann Arbor, (734) 274-4596.

^ Era of Middle Earth comes to a closeAnn Arbor’s quirky knick-knack shop, Middle Earth, is closing at the end of the year. Owner Cynthia Shevel moves to retire after the retail store’s 47-year run. 1209 S. University Ave. A going-out-of-business sale will run until the final close.

Adams Street Publishing Co.

What is your pen name?

Also publishers of:

Audited by

Member

© 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.

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

Co-publisher/Chief Financial OfficerMark I. Jacobs ([email protected]) johnny hildo

EditorialAssignment Editor: Brandon Bye ([email protected]) Billy Boggs

Staff Writer: Rose Carver ([email protected]) reese Conway

Calendar Editor:sCatherine Bohr ([email protected])Charlie Blintz

Marisa Rubin ([email protected])sCarlett sCrawl

Digital Media Specialist:Saul Jacobs ([email protected])saul t j

Contributing Writers:Russell Brakefield, JNick Roumel, Nan Bauer, Brandon Bye, Gina Balibrera, JJ Jacobson, Sandor Slomovits

Art/ProductionCreative Director: Margaret Kelly ([email protected])Pearl warriorProduction Manager: Brittney Koehl ([email protected])she Pens not

Senior Designer:Leah Foley ([email protected])inky Blue

Graphic Design:Chelsie Parton ([email protected]) i am shorty

AdvertisingSales Manager:Aubrey Hornsby ([email protected])audrey hortley

Sales Coordinator:Molly Davis ([email protected]) molly golightlySales RepresentativeTara A. Patterson ([email protected])redd Quil

Classifieds:Rachellyn Marsh ([email protected]) marsha mallow

AdministrationAccounting: Robin Armstrong ([email protected])Pen manshiP

Mature

Follow us on Facebook and TwiTTertwitter.com/ecurrent


Business Owner SpotlightAt the intersection of your area businessmen and businesswomen’s personal and professional lives.

A2 Yoga

CUBS' A.C. Sports Bar and Restaurant

2030 Commerce Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103(734) 216-4006a2yoga.net

What is your position on the “yoga as spiritual practice, yoga as body shaper” spectrum?Yoga is what you make it. The practice is embodied in the body, mind, emotion, and spirit. It's not a forced practice but rather an absorbed practice. If you practice to shape your body, you may find less stress is a by-product, which in turns affects your spirit in living more joyfully. This infinity loops to create optimal long-term health.

In a class full of students with different goals, how do the teachers at A2 keep everyone engaged and motivated? Each class is taught as an individual class. Therefore, each student’s experience affects the ‘energy’ of the class. For example: tone of voice, sequence of poses, use of props, speed of class, verbal vs. manual adjustments, music or no music. We encourage students to try new things, attend different classes and types of yoga based on their needs, schedules, and abilities. It allows for a diverse practice that ebbs and flows like life.

What is your go-to pose and why?My go to pose (asana) is "Tree Pose" or Vrksasana. I really enjoy the challenges of this pose and the grace once in the pose. The pose is standing on one leg with the second leg bent at an angle with the foot touching the standing leg. The arms are extended with shoulders down, above the head. The strength of the pose comes from the abdominal muscles supporting the spine, attention to balancing while reaching for the sky and dropping the shoulder blades without puffing the chest like a peacock.

Chef Robert McGeorge

1950 S. IndustrialAnn Arbor, MI 48104 (734) 665-4474coloniallanescubsac.com

If I wasn't a chef, I'd be: A DNR Officer. Guilty pleasure: Homemade chocolate cake and craft beers.

Diana ‘Dina’ Sheldon

Signature dish: Cajun Pasta. Three items that can always be found in my home refrigerator: Salsa, cheese, tortilla shells. Food I could eat everyday: Pasta.

The Shop

A HIGHER LEVEL OFQUALITY & SERVICE

(734) 961-2770513 W. CROSS STREET

YPSILANTI, MICHIGAN 48197

WWW.THESHOPYPS I .COM

feature


I have three arms.Feels good just to say it sometimes. The elephant in

the room. Not sure when I figured it out. My parents just made me feel special without ever really talking about it. I can’t remember a teacher or another adult ever bringing it up, and until now I have tried to avoid it as much as possible. I have been hesitant because I picture how it would go. Hi, my name is Dan and I have three arms. Just wanted to make it easy for you to figure out what to tease me about. That’d be fun. And wouldn’t most people just coldly say I should cut the extra one off?

In a way I feel really lucky. In my case having an extra arm has totally worked out for the best because I also was born with only one leg. My extra arm basically became my second leg. You can’t even tell them apart. Kids will ask the questions adults are too nice to ask and they always want to know what my extra arm looks like. It doesn’t have a hand or an elbow. In fact, it has a foot and a kneecap so it worked out perfectly. There was a time when I was a kid when I couldn’t even remember which one was my normal leg and which was my extra arm. My parents would send me out to the pool in just swim trunks for the world to see. It really taught me to be comfortable with who I am.

I’m not the only one who has had to overcome being different and I am sure a lot of people have similar stories to tell. I walk around downtown and it is a freak show some days. Turn any corner and there will be someone with four eyes. Pretty common nowadays and that has to make it a little easier on them. Not that they don’t feel the sting of a “hey four eyes!” every now and then. I wear contacts actually and I have glasses I will sometimes wear at home but I’m just not ready to waltz around town with them.

Being a person with three arms has made me more tolerant of other people with special features. For instance I can get on an elevator with a person with red hair. Crazy red hair, short or long, no hat, just out there in all of its crazy redness and I really don’t have an issue with it. I can have a normal conversation if one starts and then when we get to the end of the ride I take my three arms one way and they take their flaming hair another. If I see two people waiting for a bus and one weighs as much as two people and one is super skinny but they both have the same size feet, should I think one person’s feet are way too small or maybe the skinny person’s are too big? It’s not for me to judge which one is wrong.

By Dan PageTHE RUNDOWN: Three Arms

A man with three arms comes to terms with his odd condition and reminds us that we all have personal oddities—some on the outside, some on the inside.

We are pleased to announce the winners of our 11th annual contest.

Dan Page graduated from U of M in ’87 and writes for the challenge and pleasure of expressing and condensing an idea. He and his wife Mary live in Ann Arbor with their daughters Erin and Molly and their dog Sammie.

ArmsThree

Fiction WinnerPoetry

FICTIONand

2014

thewinners

Winter ApproachesThe highly structured villanelle is a nineteen-line

poetic form with two repeating rhymes and two refrains. The first and third lines of the first tercet repeat alternately until the last stanza, which includes both repeated lines. And what better content than the ever-impending, always returning winter to match the villanelle’s recurring, verging on obsessive form.

founder and editor of Third Wednesday, a literary arts journal, has been writing and publishing since winning two Hopwood Awards as a U-M student. He has published over ten books of poetry, fiction, humor, and creative nonfiction and many poetry chapbooks.

Laurence W. Thomas,


feature

“Crazy red hair, short or

long, no hat, just out there

in all of its crazy redness

and I really don’t have an

issue with it”.

I suppose I’m proud of how I have handled being different. I have never brought it up to my wife and she has never said a thing. With our kids we both know they are special. Each in their own way. It took me a long time to be ready to talk about having three arms so I will leave it up to them to decide what they want to reveal. Without giving too much away I will say I was relieved when each of them was born with a total of 20 fingers and toes. Our oldest can hear in the dark just as well as she can hear with all of the lights on. And Shorty, bless his heart, doesn’t seem to notice or even care how much taller other kids in his grade are. Scurries about like a little bug as if everything is just fine. His bike is too big for him but he’ll figure it out someday. We all do.

I’m not saying it has always been easy making the best of my situation. Every now and then if I am having a tough day I will head downtown or over to Walmart to do some people watching to get inspired. Plenty of people just like me with something different about them wandering around loud and proud. And in that group there are always a few people who look normal but I bet you all of them are hiding something. I’d like to walk over with my three arms and tell them not to worry about whatever it is that makes them odd, but in the real world everyone has to figure that out for themselves.

Three

Fiction Winner

Continued on page 10


feature

Winter ApproachesBy Laurence W. Thomas Even in springtime, winter’s chill is theremaybe recalling the recent cold and snowsince something always threatens in the air. We plant our gardens as we have done beforewelcoming the warmth that makes them growbut even in springtime, winter’s chill is there. Celebrating summer, full of cheer,makes us wish that it will never go but something always threatens in the air The ghost of winter hovers. Fall is forthe harvesting of crops to store awaybut even in autumn, winter’s chill is there. Beginning with the leaves in final flare and then the heavy clouds that bring the snow,we feel what always threatened in the air. In summer, we see the mark upon the flowerand autumn’s brightness always ends in gray.Even in springtime, winter’s chill is thereand something always threatens in the air.

Continued from page 9

FRIED CHICKEN Odyssey

By Nick Roumel

feature

ecurrent.com / november 2014 11CONTINUED ON P 12

Homer’s “Odyssey” is the epic tale of Odysseus’ 10-year journey, returning

from the Trojan War. Current’s Odyssey is now in its fourth year, restlessly seeking the best food and drink in Washtenaw County. We have covered pizza, beer, burgers, BBQ, sushi, vegetarian food, and now fried chicken.

Homer said, “The journey’s the thing.” We part ways with Homer where he wrote, “I have no interest at all in food and drink, but only in slaughter and blood and the agonized groans of mangled men.” Personally, we prefer chicken and milkshakes. Our journey took us to nine restaurants in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The results of our Odyssey may shock you. They certainly surprised us. While Seoul Street and Zingerman’s Roadhouse have excellent reputations, our Seekers found the best local chicken in Ypsilanti - in some of the most unpretentious and homey dives. The Rules We were looking for fried, bone-in chicken. We dis-qualified chain restaurants, and those which served only the ubiquitous wing. In addition to our own favorites, we talked to locals and put out the challenge on social media. We came up with nine non-chain restaurants in Washtenaw County that met the criteria.


feature

Ypsilanti,aftertherecentclosureofKorey’s,givesus“ATasteofSoul”byBiggies;Cuppy’sBestSoul-fulDeli;Family’s;theChickInn;andthevenerableHaab’s.Wemanagedtosamplefriedchickenfromallfiveinoneday.InAnn Arbor,wevisitedTheRavensClub,SeoulStreet,Zingerman’sRoadhouse,andMary’sFabulousChickenandFish.Wehitthefirstthreeinapoundingthunderstorm,withaquietvisittoMary’sthenextdaytocloseouttheOdyssey.Weonlyorderedchicken,plusafewsides.Withonlyoneexception(theChickInn’shomemademilkshakes)wefocusedonthefriedbird.Weusedascoresheetfeaturinga10-pointscaleforthefollow-ingcategories:appearance,aroma,size,crispness,moistness,andflavor.Wealsoleftroomforsubjectivecomments,andItookeveryone’s“topthree”tocloseoutthescoring.What Is FrIed ChICken anyhoW?Wholechickensaregenerallydividedintofourpieces,withskinonandboneinforfrying:thedarkmeatpiecesofthethighanddrumstick,andthewhitemeatfromthebreastandwing.Whiletherearemanyvariants,generallytherearethreesteps.First,thechickenispre-seasoned,withaspicerub,marinade,ormilk/buttermilkbathofsomekind.Second,itislightlydredgedwithaseasonedflourandaleavenerlikebakingsoda.Third,itiscookedinhotoil,whollyorpartiallysubmergedinthefat.Forrestaurantshavinga“Broaster”stylepressurecooker,thechickencooksinminuteswithacombinationoftheagitatingoilandsealed-inpressure.Welearnedthat“Broast-ed”chickenisatrademarkandisallowedtobeusedonlybyrestaurantscarryingtheirproprietarycooker.Itproduceschickenthatiscrispontheoutside,whileretainingitsownjuicesformoist,tendermeatontheinside.Who Got to Go on thIs WonderFul odyssey?WekeptitinterestingwithamixofveteranSeek-ers,andonenewcomer.

L to R: “Sky” Walker, Cynthia Hodges, Ken Anderson, Heather Leavitt, Nick Roumel, Thom Martin, Patti Smith. (At the Chick Inn)feature

ken anderson – By day a communications

coordinator for the AATA, Ken is the fiancé of veteran

seeker Patti Smith. This is his second Odyssey.

ken “sky” Walker– Sky was Punt to my Counterpunt when Current used to publish the Michigan Football Guide, and again after the column moved to mgoblog. A long-time social worker, Sky is also a discerning carnivore, and has joined us for all but the Vegetarian Odyssey. His dry wit and plain spoken commentary cut through many a greasy moment

1

3

heather leavItt – Heather is the owner of “Sweet Heather Anne” (www.sweetheatheranne.com), and recognized for her artistically designed cakes by such publications as Metro Detroit Bride, CBS Detroit, Edible Wow (cover story), University of Michigan LSA Alumni Magazine, and Inspire Bride Magazine. Heather also cooked at “eve” the restaurant for three years, and assisted Courtney Clark of “Cake Nouveau” with her Food Network “Cake Challenge” successes. This is her third Odyssey.

4

thom martIn – Thom is a Kansas City BBQ Society certified judge, devout foodie, and four-time winner of the Arbor Networks office chili cookoff. He still reserves a “10” score for something that you’d “shove your momma to the ground to get some.” This is his fifth Odyssey.

6

nICk roumel (author)– Your author, a food lover with

many years of restaurant, bar, and catering experience, and

long-time food writer - who happens to practice civil rights law

on the side.5

PattI smIth – “Teacher Patti” is a special education teacher. In her free time, she enjoys craft beer, blogging, and social networking. She has written a historical book of downtown Ann Arbor, which will be released in November by Arcadia publishers. She is the only veteran (besides your author) of all seven Odysseys.

7

ken anderson – By day a communications


seeker Patti Smith. This is his second Odyssey.3

CynthIa hodGes– Our “newbie,” Cynthia comes from

a long line of redneck stock, so she knows fried chicken. She

writes one of Ann Arbor’s longest running and popular blogs

(motherskitchen.blogspot.com), and she is the founder of the A2

Food Yahoo group. She can be frequently found teaching people

how to can their own food at local farmer’s markets. In real life,

she is an automotive engineer.2

CONTINUEDFROMP11


Seoul Street1771 Plymouth Rd., Suite 101Ann Arbor, (734) 719-0085

Quick bite: It’s all about the skin

Seoul Street’s Korean Fried Chicken has a lot of fans, but we found it consternating. On one hand, we are fully on board with the Korean frying method, guaranteed to make super-crispy skin, made even more delicious by the glazes – soy garlic, or hot and spicy. We also give them points for using fresh, all natural chicken. Where Seoul Street lost us was in the inat-tention to the chicken itself. The skin – which Sky called an “armor plating” - peeled too easily from the meat, which lacked discernible flavor. This could have been remedied by a strong brining or marinade. Additionally, while moist, the texture was a bit slick rather than the supple tenderness that marks an excellent fried chicken. Though Patti said she could “hear the skin crack-ling across the table,” she lamented, “It was not good enough to expand my ass for.” Sky agreed, saying “For all the hype, I wouldn’t drive out of my way for this.” Still, the crispy skin and glazes are what many people do come back for. Heather especially loved the soy-garlic flavor, and the hot-and-spicy really delivers the heat. Each would be excellent choices for the chicken wings (which we did not order). Note also that Seoul Street recommends placing an order 40 minutes before pickup. Price: 4 pieces plus a side is between $7.95 – $8.95.

Cuppy’S BeSt Soulful Deli1451 Ecorse Rd.Ypsilanti, (734)-320-2577

Quick bite: Go for the soul food Cuppy’s is known for its wide variety of made-from-scratch soul food: tilapia, catfish, shrimp, ribs, mac-n-cheese, greens, yams, sweet potato pie, and coconut cake, to name a few. Unfortunately we did not enjoy the chicken, which looked appealing but was otherwise just average, a bit dry and bland. But we’re glad we found this gem, and we will return for the rest of the menu. People rave about this place. Price: $10.99 for a 3-piece mixed fried dinner, with two sides and cornbread.

ken Anderson – By day a communications


seeker Patti Smith. This is his second Odyssey.

ken “sky” WAlker – Sky was Punt to my Counterpunt when Current used to publish the Michigan Football Guide, and again after the column moved to mgoblog. A long-time social worker, Sky is also a discerning carnivore, and has joined us for all but the Vegetarian Odyssey. His dry wit and plain spoken commentary cut through many a greasy moment

1

3

CONTINUED ON P 14


featureFamily’s Fried ChiCken510 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, (734) 485-1923

Quick bite: Don’t judge a book by its cover. Family’s straddles the prime location of Michigan Ave. and Congress, across from the police station, fire department, and courthouse. It is nothing to look at, and having just read a scathing Yelp review, we didn’t expect much. Yet we agreed with Sky (who picked up the order) that it was “surprisingly good.” Family’s was above average in every category, with a good clean aroma, nice crunch, and tender chicken. It was nicely spiced, if a bit unevenly; Thom ventured that it had been brined; I guessed that it had been pressure cooked. It was Ken’s favorite. Price: $5.99 for a four-piece order. honey.

feature

a TasTe oF soul (by Biggie’s)97 Spring St., Ypsilanti, 734-483-8360

Quick bite: no chicken! We visited this casual, take-out only soul food joint during our BBQ Odyssey. At that time, we praised the huge, meaty ribs, tender baked chicken, and huge variety of delicious side dishes. On this visit, unexpect-edly, the restaurant was out of fried chicken - except for wings. That was not an auspicious sign for a fried chicken odyssey. While the wings were crispy, there wasn’t much flavor. They also suffered due to the fryer’s noticeable need for an oil change. We will definitely give “Biggie’s” another chance due to their variety of offerings, reason-able prices, and friendly service - and look for more consistent product on future visits. In the meantime, their yummy baked chicken is a much better bet. Price: chicken is $6.99; 100 pieces mixed is $74.99 (when they have it).

CONTINUED FROM P13


Mary’s Fabulous ChiCken and Fish3220 Packard StAnn Arbor, (734) 971-5703

Quick bite: Unassuming Like Family’s, Mary’s is not much to look at either outside or in. The fry-heavy menu boasts chicken, fish, shrimp, clams, gizzards, and fries, with a few sandwiches like a popu-lar cheese-steak hoagie. The chicken was good. It had a peppery, spicy coating that adhered well to the chicken, which was plenty tender. If someone brought you Mary’s chicken, you’d eat it and be quite satisfied. Service is quick and pleasant. Price: an 6-piece mixed order was $8.39 (cash only)

Thom after a satisfying meal.

haab’s restaurant18 West MichiganYpsilanti, 734-483-8200

Quick bite: Our Chicken Odyssey RUNAWAY winner!!! Haab’s traces its roots to at least the 1870’s, and remains a timeless institution, even as the rest of Ypsilanti changes rapidly. A family restaurant that delivers personal service to its loyal regulars, as well as new visitors, Haab’s features a classic menu in the steakhouse tradition. We went for their “Chicken in a Basket,” a ½ fried chicken with shoestring fries, biscuit and honey. And oh, honey – this was our fifth chicken of the day, but I couldn’t stop eating it. It was that good, scoring highest in our Odyssey for moistness and tenderness – “juicy without being greasy,” as Ken noted. The flavor of the chicken was so good that Patti even preferred it to the skin, which was an extreme rarity (the Ann Arbor restaurants, by contrast, had excellent coating but lacked in flavor). We all vowed to return. Haab’s “Chicken in the Basket”

Price: $12.99 for a chicken, fries, and biscuit.

CONTINUED ON P 16

PHOTOGRAPHY: ROSE CARVER


feature

Zingerman’s roadhouse2501 Jackson Ave.Ann Arbor, 734-663-3663

Quick bite: Overdone

Odyssey readers know we admire Zingerman’s Roadhouse, and their commitment to local sourc-ing, excellent service, and taking care of their employees. By and large, their food is excellent. Yet as much as we loved their crispy, peppery fried skin, we have found their buttermilk fried chicken often cooked to the point of dryness. Our takeout order, on the day of a near monsoon, was no exception. Everything else is to adore. The chicken is exceptionally clean; the oil is squeaky fresh; and the spice mix is sublime, flavoring both skin and chicken. The ample breast piece was not harmed dramatically by the overcooking; but the dark pieces suffered, and the wings were nearly ined-ible. On another recent visit, a friend (who always orders Zing’s fried chicken) had to send the order back for being so overdone. Zingerman’s will always replace an unsatisfactory order without complaint - but they shouldn’t have to. Price: 2 piece dark, mashed potatoes and cole slaw, $14.50 (dine in); 8 pieces to go, served hot, $20.00 (specify “fridge to fridge” menu). Lessons Learned Washtenaw County’s best fried chicken lies to the east. Our panel made Haab’s an easy top choice; Chick Inn was a solid second, and Fam-ily’s made third place by a nose. We would also recommend Biggie’s and Cuppy’s for their exten-sive soul food options. Ann Arbor’s chicken is dominated by crispy, de-licious skin, but they’re going to have to go deeper than that to top their Ypsilanti rivals. Well-fortified by all this fried fowl, our Seekers journey on. See you at the next Odyssey.

feature

.

ChiCk inn drive in501 Holmes Rd.Ypsilanti, (734) 483-3639

Quick bite: Classic diner menu, great fried chicken, and amazing milkshakes!

The Chick Inn is a drive-in with car hops, a few picnic tables, and Motown blasting through the parking lot. Sky loved the outdoor ambience. In fact, entering the actual building is a no-no; the sign on the door gives this friendly warning: “Welcome to the Chick Inn. Please do not enter. If you would like to order, please use one of the outdoor speakers in the sitting area. Thanks a lot! J” Unfortunately, stupid people still go through the door and try to order. Like me (sheepish grin). Undeterred by my rudeness, the server was as friendly as could be, bringing our order outside, which included beautiful chicken pieces and homemade milkshakes to die for - including peanut butter, chocolate, and several options with large pieces of fresh fruit. Even the “kids’ size” are about 12 oz., and they cost only $.90! Chick Inn rated highly across the scoresheet. It looked fabulous; Heather noted the “rich orange color.” It also nearly scored solid “10’s” in crispness. The flavor was very good as well, if a tad salty. But you can’t beat the entire package - sitting outside, on a summer evening listening to some good tunes, chasing down some delicious bird with yummy milkshakes. Worth the trip. Price: $6.75 for a 4-piece order, comes with a roll and butter

CONTINUED FROM P13


Mug Club: a society of like-minded beer drinkers who assemble in an agreed-upon tavern, regularly greeted by name at that tavern by the establishment’s proprietors and staff, who serve their thirsty patrons suds in personalized mugs kept in proximity to the bar. Arbor Brewing Company Microbrewery (Corner Brewery) in Ypsilanti is home to one such club.

When I arrived at Corner Brewery, Kari Peron, General Manager, welcomed me to a table and offered me a beer. Presently, a man who I had known via email correspondence as Kevin Bradner, Mug Club Manager, appeared and introduced himself as “Monkey.”

“Originally, there were several Monkeys,” he said. He waited a beat, beamed, and then completed the thought: “The others still ex-ist.”

“Ah,” I said, but at that time Monkey had no more to say on the matter. John Ritenour, Head Brewer, joined us soon after this ex-change, and our conversation turned to the order of business.

Club BeginningsI asked first about the provenance of the Mug Club.

Is this the kind of thing that has occurred at long wooden tables in the Black Forest for hundreds of years? Is it a secret society? Are there keys, or purple cloaks, or a code of conduct?

Nah. Monkey beamed again, delighted by my ignorance. Kari, very gently, shook her head. The Mug Club was founded in 2006, in the auspicious year of the pub’s Ypsilanti groundbreaking.

An interested party gains admis-sion to the Mug Club with an intro-ductory member-ship fee of $50, paid to the bar. In return, members receive discounts on beer and are given a handcrafted mug that can be personalized with idiosyncratic specifications. “Songs are like tattoos,” Joni Mitchell once sang mournfully, and I suppose, so are mugs. Each mug takes six to eight weeks to be designed and handcrafted by area ceramists Autumn Aslakson and Ryan Forrey. There are more than 300 active Mug Club members, and their mugs dangle attractively from hooks above the main bar. Painted on one is a leggy damsel with squirrel tableau, on the next, a taciturn, dignified cat, on a third, a skunk assumes a vainglorious posture, on another, a ship sets sail on turbulent waters.

Monthly “meetings” On a designated Tuesday evening from 7—8pm, Mug

Club members attend, for free, Beer of the Month tasting

food

parties, where sneak previews of forthcoming beers are made available. Brewers give talks about the brew of the month—replete with both educational points of craft and anecdotal homages to local heroes like the Violin Monster. These events are packed, Kari, John, and Monkey concur,

and on some occasions culminate in the competitive guzzling of fine brews from a large boot.

“Strategic backwashing,” Mon-key added puckishly.

FavoritesThey told me about the beers,

their favorites. Monkey revealed that one

of the decorative signs at Ar-bor Brewing Company, Corner Brewery’s sister pub, bore his im-age for a very potent beer called “The HX0.”

Kari pointed out the flame-haired woman on the dewy label

that I had been peeling off of my bottle of Ypsi Gypsi. “The name of that beer started as my nickname,” Kari said. “That’s me.” Kari smiled, and so did I, delighted by this sweet gesture, by the camaraderie, personality, and warmth emanating from this place.

And then John told me about one of his favorite beers: Fig Jam. “Know what it stands for?” I didn’t.

“F**k, I’m Good, Just Ask Me,” John said.“Ah, so Fig Jam is your nickname? Perhaps this is

what you prefer to be called?” Nah. The table roared, Monkey the loudest. Fig de-

murred. “Yes, I created the beer, but, no, not because it was my nickname.” John, as he preferred to be addressed, extolled the robust Autumnal flavors of the Fig Jam brew: figs, malt, and raisin. “It’s a confident brew,” he told me, made for, “A confident dude.” Wherever that man is, I hope he’s reading.

The Monkey, The Gypsi, and The FigBehind the scenes at Corner Brewery’s mug clubby Gina Balibrera


food3 monday

Cocktail Class - Year Round Gin7:30-9pm. $45. The Last Word, 301 W. Huron St. 734-276-3215. thelastwordbar.comWe know Gin and Tonics are great for summer, now it’s time to explore more options for every season.

4 tuesdayGrizzly Peak Brewer’s Night6-9pm. Grizzly Peak Brewing Co., 120 W. Washington St. 734-741-7325. annarborbeer.com Meet the brewer, get a brewery tour and enjoy beer specials.

Fall Cleansing and Healthy Holidays with Raw Foods7-8:30pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Teahouse, 114 S. Main St. 734-994-4589. peoplesfood.coop FreeLearn how to detoxify naturally and get inspiration for healthy holiday foods. Register on website.

5 wednesdayHoliday Wine Show6:30-8:30pm. $50/person (+tax and tip). Paesano Restaurant and Wine Bar, 3411 Washtenaw Ave. 734-971-0484. paesanosannarbor.comThis event features over 25 different Italian wines from local wine distributors. Various stations will be set up for the tastings, as well as, an appe-tizer and dessert buffet. Wines you enjoy can be purchased that evening. Call to reserve your spot.

6 thursday45 North and J. Trees Winemakers Dinner6:30-9pm. $75. Evans Street Station, 110 S. Evans St, Tecumseh. 517-424-5555. evansstreetstation.comTwo of the favorite Michigan winemakers will come to Evans Street for a wonderful evening filled with bubbly and even some wines not yet avail-able to the public. The whole evening will include hors d’oeuvre, 5 courses and 7 wines.

Gourmet Magazine: A Retrospective Before the Food Network and Epicurious, there was Gourmet Magazine, curator of sophisticated dining ideas, hosting trends, and the lowdown on culinary tourism. Now, five years after the magazine’s end, one issue from each of its 69 years of publication (1941-2009) is on display on the seventh floor of the Hatcher Graduate Library—through Dec. 1. And on November 18, from 4 to 6pm, Jan Longone, adjunct curator of culinary history at U-M Library, will discuss the exhibit The Life and Death of Gourmet—The Magazine of Good Living. Allow time to view the exhibit before the lecture. Hatcher Graduate Library 913 S. University Avenue, Ann Arbor, room 100, (734) 764-0400—BB

Whiskey SeasonAs the warm weather recedes, so does the

idea of washing down a long day with an ice cold beer or tropical mixer. Cue bourbon: that cold-weather spirit that keeps you feeling toasty on those hoary November nights.

Enhance your appreciation of bourbon and increase your knowledge of Kentucky whiskey products at The Filson Bourbon Academy. This six-hour course is supported by the Kentucky Distillers Association and The Ravens Club. Filson Bourbon historian Mike Veach, a member of the Bourbon Hall of Fame and author of Kentucky Bourbon History: An American Heritage leads the event. The Academy is limited to 50 students. $125 for the day-long

session and box lunch. Reservations required. (502) 635-5083. filsonhistorical.org. Saturday, November 15, The Ravens Club, 202 S. Main Street, Ann Arbor. (734) 214-0400.

The Bourbon Basics Cocktail Class at Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter teaches participants how to make

three classic bourbon cocktails: the Mint Julep, the Old Fashioned and the Boulevardier. Did you know bourbon was deemed America’s National Liquor by Congress in 1964? Attendees will also learn about the distillery process and what makes bourbon unique from other types of whiskey. $60. Monday, November 10, from 7pm to 9:30pm, 8540 Island Lake Rd. Dexter, 734-619-8100.—MF

Vino Italino - Wine Tasting at Paesano

Paesano Restaurant and Wine Bar invites you to taste a variety of Italian Vino in their annual Holiday Wine Show. Stroll around to the stations of local wine distributors, and sample over 25 different wines. There will also be an assortment of appetizers and a dessert bar to accompany the sweets, florals, tannins, and all the other tasting notes of the wines. $50. Wednesday, November 5th, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. 3411 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, 734-971-0484. --RC

Courtesy of U

niversity of Michigan Library

cont. on page 20


What moistens the lip and what brightens the eye?What calls back the past, like the rich pumpkin pie?John Greenleaf Whittier, “The Pumpkin”By JJ Jacobson

We say “as American as apple pie” but, really, if you want an American pie you need to look to the pumpkin. Apple pie, or at least pie with apples, was eaten in England when “American” meant roughly “somewhere in that newfound territory over there by the West Indies.” Pumpkin pie, we arrived at on our own.

The first genuinely American cookbook, Amelia Simmons's American Cookery of 1796, includes “Pompkin” amongst its pudding recipes and recommends baking it in a crust with milk, eggs, molasses and spice. Sound familiar?

November’s recipe is drawn from a mid-19th century volume titled (in part) Cook and Confectioner: The Complete Cook :

Plain and Practical Directions for Cooking and Housekeeping, with Upwards of Seven Hundred Receipts. Mid-19th century recipes look somewhat odd to the modern cook: there’s no list of precisely measured ingredients, and while the author gives the reader instructions of a sort, they strike us a somewhat vague.

This is because cookbook authors a century and a half ago took for granted that if you were reading a recipe, you already had some, and likely a very good, idea how to cook.

Here is the recipe from the book:“Pumpkin and Squash Pie.—process is pursued in

America, and the editor can testify to the immense superiority of the Yankee method. In England, the pumpkin is grown for show rather than for use; nevertheless, when properly dressed, it is a very delicious vegetable, and a universal favourite with our New England neighbours.

The following is the American method of making a pumpkin pie: Take out the seeds, and pare the pumpkin or squash; but in taking out the seeds do not scrape the inside of the pumpkin; the part nearest the seed is the sweetest; then stew the pumpkin and strain it through a sieve or colander. To a quart of milk for a family pie, three eggs are sufficient. Stir in the stewed pumpkin with your milk and beaten-up

eggs till it is as thick as you can stir round rapidly and easily. If the pie is wanted richer make it thinner, and add another egg or two; but even one egg to a quart of milk makes " very decent pies." Sweeten with molasses or sugar; add two tea-spoonfuls of salt, two table-spoonfuls of sifted cinnamon, and one of powdered ginger; but allspice may be used, or any other spice that may be preferred. The peel of a lemon grated in gives it a pleasant flavour. The more eggs, says our American authority, the better the pie. Some put one egg to a gill of milk. Bake about an hour in deep plates, or shallow dishes, without an upper crust, in a warm oven.”

9” pie crust (if you’re buying a frozen crust in an

aluminum pan get a deep dish one)

1 1/2 c pureed pumpkin

1/2 c heavy cream

2 large eggs

1/4 t salt

1/2 c sugar

3T molasses (I use a mild molasses. If you prefer

blackstrap, more power to you)

2t cinnamon (I like Vietnamese cassia, but any cinnamon

or cassia will work)

1t powdered ginger

1/2 t nutmeg

1/4 t allspice

Pumpkin Pie Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 425°

Whisk all ingredients (except the crust!) together

until uniform. Pour into crust and bake at 425°

for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350° and

bake another 30 to 40 minutes until the filling sets

around the edges. A knife inserted 1” from the

edge should come out moist but clean. Shield the

crust with aluminum foil or a pie shield if it begins

to get too brown.

Let cool to room temperature before cutting.

Directions

food

Author Bio: JJ Jacobson is Outreach Librarian and Curator, American Culinary History Collection, at the Special Collections Library of the University of Michigan Library, where she works with the Janice Bluestein Longone Culinary Archive.

Cou

rtes

y of

Cle

men

ts L

ibra

ry

There is another method of making this pie, which, we know from experience, produces an excellent dish: “Take out the seeds, and grate the pumpkin till you come to the outside skin. Sweeten the pulp; add a little ground allspice, lemon peel, and lemon juice; in short, flavour it to your taste. Bake without an upper crust.”

After comparing this recipe and several others (it’s the rare 19th or early 20th c American cookbook that doesn’t include a recipe for pumpkin pie), here is my translation into modern terms. It’s flavor is definitely bolder and spicier than most modern pumpkin pies.


food8 saturday

Kitchen Knife Skills with Matt Banks10am-12pm. Downtown Home and Garden, 210 S. Ashley St. 734-662-8122. downtownhomeandgarden.com Take a class to improve your chopping, slicing and dicing!

12 wednesdayKnife Skills with Kieron Hales5:30-8:30pm. $75. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 7 34-761-7255. bakewithzing.com Become a wizard in the kitchen by practicing your knife skills with an experienced chef, Kieron Hales,from Zingerman’s Cornman Farms.

13 thursdayEveryone Loves Cupcakes5:30-9:30pm. $100. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.comDo some baking and decorat-ing to create your very own cute cupcakes! Learn to make vanilla buttermilk batter and fluffy Swiss buttercream.

Beer Tasting: Belgians7-9pm. $30/advanced; $35/door. Ann Arbor Brewpub, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. annarborbrewing.comThis month we are focusing on Belgian style beers. There will be two dozen or so of the best examples of this style. Tickets include beer samples, appetizer buffet, a program for tasting notes and a door prize drawing.

15 saturdayBaking Madeleine Cookies with Brigitte10am-1pm. Downtown Home and Garden, 210 S. Ashley St. 734-662-8122. downtownhomeandgarden.com FreeLearn to make the oh so tasty Madeleine cookie.

16 sundayHoliday WineFest5-8pm. $45. Evans Street Station, 110 S. Evans St, Tecumseh. 810-237-7333. evansstreetstation.comThis annual wine tasting benefit for the Tecumseh Carnegie will introduce you to over 60 wines from around the world and a wide array of hors d’oeurves.

17 mondayCocktail Class - Better with Bubbles7:30-9pm. $45. The Last Word, 301 W. Huron St. 734-276-3215. thelastwordbar.com Learn to make cocktails with champagne just in time for Thanksgiving.

19 wednesdayBasic Cake Decorating5:30-9:30pm. $100. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.comThe outside is the first part of a cake people notice. Learn to split cakes, fill, crumb coat and ice them. Learn different piping tips to make shells, rosettes, roses , vines, leaves and text.

21 fridayBring on the Brioche1-5pm. $125. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.comLearn to make the national bread of Belgium. Learn the traditional round tete shape, chocolate filled brioche rolls, savory brioche roll filled with sausage, and a sweet loaf.

26 wednesdayRelease Party: Terminator6-7pm. $10. Ann Arbor Brewpub, 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. annarborbrewing.com Join the annual tradition of tap-ping Ann Arbor Brewing Com-pany’s Terminator Dopplebock and celebrate partnerships to combat hunger and homeless-ness in Washtenaw County.

27 thurssdayThanksgiving Feast11am-5pm. Evans Street Station, 110 S. Evans St, Tecumseh. 517-424-5555. evansstreetstation.com You are invited to a scrump-tious buffet featuring traditional Thanksgiving favorites plus some special touches. Check out the website for the full menu.

29 saturdayWe Dig Doughnuts8am-12pm. $125. Zingerman’s Bakehouse, 3711 Plaza Dr. 734-761-7255. bakewithzing.comLearn to make delicious dough-nuts in your own home!

OngOingMondaysBrews and Board games5-11pm. Chelsea Alehouse Brewery, 420 N. Main St #100, Chelsea. 734-475-2337. chelseaalehouse.comCome out and learn a new game or bring your own to play. Also enjoy some brews!

TuesdaysTake Away TuesdaysAnn Arbor Brewing Co., 114 E. Washington St. 734-213-1393. arborbrewing.comEnjoy $5 off growler fills when you spend $5. Also take advan-tage of the happy hour deals.

WednesdaysWine night WednesdaysEvans Street Station, 110 S. Evans St, Tecumseh. 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. 517-424-5555. evansstreetstation.comEnjoy half bottles of wine from the Evans Street List. If unable to finish the bottle, no problem!, it can be corked and sent home with you. Nov 5, 2014 - Dec 17, 2014

Wednesday Wine TastingsPaesano’s Restaurant, 3411 Washtenaw Ave. 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. $25 + gratuity. 734-971-0484. paesanosannarbor.com This fun and informal event allows you to taste 5 up and coming Italian wines while the staff provides tasty appetizers. 21+.

Wednesdays and ThursdaysCheap Beer night8pm. Circus, 210 S. First St. 734-913-8890. circusannarbor.comJoin in for cheap beer and Karaoke every Wednesday and Thursday! 18+.

SaturdaysLocal Blues and Brews8-11:45pm. $5. Guy Hollerins, 3600 Plymouth Rd. 734-769-4323. hian-narbor.comJoin in every Saturday for a different performer and drink specials at the Local Blues and Brews. The performer for each week can be found on the website.

Football Saturday Beer BattleSava’s, 216 S. State St. 734-623-2233. annarborbeer.comParticipants in this day will be given two beers and a ballot to chose their favorite. Every week two different beers will be chosen to correspond with the football matchup. Through November 29.

cont. from page 18

ie

ecurrent.com/food


Expert Advice: How to crush it at karaoke With KJ Peter Hawkins By Brandon Bye

Do you love karaoke and feel the desire to hone your craft? Maybe you’ve been thinking of giving it a try but you doubt your talents. Either way, seasoned karaoke-man Peter Hawkins—80s music aficionado, KJ with Stoo’s Ka-raoke, and believer that people of all singing abilities can serve up a stellar performance—is here to help.

Support your fellow singersSome singers are amazing. Some singers are not. All

are welcome and encouraged. It’s about the love of the music, people. So spread the love and clap for every-one, from the girl who just nailed “Love On Top” to the guy that was so nervous he whispered his way through “Semi-Charmed Life.” You don’t have to highly rate the performance, you don’t even have to like the song, but please show respect for the courage to perform.

Branch out The greatest joy I see is when singers find them-

selves in a new song. Everyone has their go-tos, but I love hearing people say, “never tried this one before” or “wish me luck!” Who wants to be a one-hit wonder anyway!

Have a repertoireCertain songs are always going to be picked: “Wan-

nabe,” “Baby Got Back,” “Don’t Stop Believing.” When someone beats you to your first choice, having a few songs in your back pocket comes in handy.

Mic checkMicrophones are a vitally important part of your

performance. A good distance to hold your mic ranges be-

tween two and eight inches from your mouth. Your voice is the reason you’re up there, so let them hear you. If you feel you need more volume, ask your KJ. We want you to sound your best.

Group singing While it’s a challenge, with a little pre-planning the performance can be amazing. And for first-

timers, the comfort of a group is a good way to start your karaoke career. Most shows will only have two microphones. There are a few ways to share the stage. 1) Find a lead singer, then back him up with harmonies and

dance steps. 2) Huddle together with the mic out in front of the group. 3) Pass the mic around

so everyone gets a shot at being the frontman. Just be sure to have fun with each other and share the

stage.

Dancing on stage Pace yourself! Don’t go so crazy that you are out of

breath and puffing your way through an uptempo song! Dancing and showing the crowd that you are enjoying yourself is contagious, and soon you can get the whole place dancing with you.

Catch Peter Hawkins on Tuesdays at Good Time Charley’s, Wednesdays at the Tower Inn in Ypsilanti, Thursdays at Arena Sports Bar, Fridays and Saturdays at Circus Bar.

stooskaraoke.com

Just a small town girllivin’ in a lonely world

she took the midnight traingoin’ anywhere

music

music


1 saturdayThe Big Squeeze: An Accordion Festival - Hill AuditoriumThe Accordion Virtuosi of Russia features an orchestra of accordions of all sizes. Popular Russian classical arrange-ments will be performed. 8pm. $10-$48.

Darrin James Band Record Release - Wolverine Brewing CompanyCelebrate the new release of local singer-songwriter and guitarist. The new afro-funk single is available on iTunes. 8pm-12am.

The Verve Pipe - The ArkFormed in East Lansing, this group is distinguished by their creative arrangements, lyrics and layered vocals. 7:30 pm. $25.

2 sundayOpening of Ann Arbor Concert Band’s 36th Season - Michigan TheaterA non-profit community based ensemble of over 70 members, performing 4 concerts per year. 2pm. $10/adults; $5/seniors and students; Free/under 12.

3 mondayLuke Winslow King - The ArkMichigan-born singer-songwrit-er performs a mixture of blues, rock and classical impression-ism. 8pm. $15.

4 tuesdayKevin Drew (of Broken So-cial Scene) - The Blind PigHear one of the founding mem-bers of this Canadian indie rock band. Ages 18+. 9pm. $18/advance, $20/day of.

5 wednesdayThe Ark’s Open Stage The stage at The Ark is open for anyone who wants to share their musical talent! If you are

not interested in performing no problem, just come and enjoy undiscovered musical talents. 8pm. $3.

6 thursdayNessa - Gifts of Art GalleryWith Celtic roots, folk and world fusion this Detroit area ensemble is classically trained with three degrees in flute performance. Kelly McDermott leads the ensemble with music that reflects her passion for rediscovering and rearranging Celtic and European folk songs and classical themes. Noon-1-pm. Free

Apollo’s Fire and Apollo’s Singers Monteverdi’s Vespers of 1610 - St. Francis AssisiMonteverdi forged a vivid new music style bridging the gap between Renaissance and Baroque music styles. Apollo’s fire includes seven vocalists, the chamber choir Apollo’s Singers, and an orchestra of period instruments. 7:30pm.

7 fridayJay Stilestra Trio - Crazy Wisdom BookstoreEnjoy original songs of the heart and human experiences in Americana acoustic-style melodies. 8:30-10:30pm. Free

Jonathan Edwards - Green Wood Coffee HouseA performer for four decades his shows will range from songs of passion to insight and humor. 8pm. $20.

Ann Arbor Soul Club - The Blind PigEnjoy a night of Northern soul and funk music. Ages 18+. 9:30pm. $5, $8/under age 21.

8 saturdayGov’t Mule - Michigan TheaterWarren Hayes and Matt Abts, both from the Allman Brothers, started the side project Gov’t Mule. Influences from the Allman Brothers are prevalent in the music along with a psychedelic blues twist. 8pm. $30-$45 plus fees.

9 sundayQuatuor Ébéne - Rackham AuditoriumThis French group will begin the evening with Mozart and Mendelssohn before veering off onto an unpredictable path of their own arrangements. 4pm. $24-$48.

10 mondayDon Flemons - The ArkFrom old-time blues and coun-try to African American folk music, he plays the bones and the quills. Don Flemons is hit-ting the road solo with his new album “American Songster.” 8pm. $15.

12 wednesdayKate Voegele - Blind PigA young woman who has performed with people such as John Mayer, Counting Crows and Willie Nelson, she will blow you away with her musical talent. 18 plus event. 8pm. $12/advanced; $15/day of show.

13 thursdayThe Living Stones - Blind PigThis group began playing together in 2006 as a youth group band in Birmingham, MI. In 2010 they released their first EP “You and I.” They have continued to play in worship groups and at festivals includ-ing The Big Ticket Festival. With musical influences such as Relient K and Switchfoot they are sure to play a great show! 8pm. $5/under 21, $8.

UM Doctoral Strings Stu-dents - Gifts of Art GalleryThis concert will feature both solo and chamber strings music by students in the Ph.D program at the School of Music, Theatre and Dance. Noon-1pm. Free

14 fridayThe Whiskey Charmers - Crazy Wisdom BookstoreAn Americana Roots duo with songs of love, heartbreak, open road, and whiskey! Enjoy their music tonight and await their new album to be released later

this year. 8:30-10:30pm. Free

15 saturdayBob James - Hill AuditoriumMichigan native, jazz pianist and the most sampled artist in hip-hop history graces the stage. 8pm. $10-$54.

Indian Tabla Music with John Churchville - Crazy Wisdom BookstoreCome out and hear traditional Indian classical music that dates back to over 2000 years ago as well as some fusion and folk styles. 8:30-10:30pm. Free

Tchaikovsky and friends - Michigan TheaterThe Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra performs songs by Rossini, Schumann and Tchaik-ovsky. 8pm. $15-$62.

Quintron and Miss Pussycat - The Blind PigEnjoy some rhythmic tunes and rocking dance music. Ages 18+. $10/advance, $12/day of.

19 wednesdayJake Shimabukuro - Hill AuditoriumThe ukulele wizard has redefined the under-the-radar instrument. His quick fingers and unique style have been compared to Jimi Hendrix and Miles Davis, and he has played for the Queen of England. 7:30pm. $16-$60.

20 thursdayUM String Preparatory Academy - Gifts of Art GalleryThe String Preparatory is a part of the UM School of Music, Theatre and Dance, which provides the highest quality of training to musicians in el-ementary through high school. Tonight the students will hold a recital to showcase their talents. Noon-1pm. Free

21 fridayMark Jewett - Crazy Wisdom Bookstore This night will be filled with music classified as “Music Without Boundaries.” Mark

cont. on page 24


Brother Ali comes homeNovember 11 /Blind PigAnn Arbor venue veteran Brother Ali brings his “Home

Away From Home” tour to A2, with guests BAMBU and DJ Last Word. Ali hails from Wisconsin, but grew up in Michigan. Over the last decade, he has estab-lished himself as an underground hip-hop household name, frequenting the Blind Pig over the course of his career. Ali’s activist agenda—he was arrested dur-ing the Occupy protests in 2012—and high-energy, purpose-driven performances come to life in small hometown venues. $16 adv., $18 at door. November 11. 9pm. 208 S. 1st St, Ann Arbor.—MRF

See the Symphony November 15 / Hill AuditoriumAs part of their 20th anniversary celebration tour, the San Francisco Symphony joins the University of Michigan Chorus for a concert in A2. The seven-city tour stops in some of the Sym-phony’s favorite venues, those significant to the Symphony’s 20-year ca-reer, such as New York’s Carnegie Hall and Ann Arbor’s Hill Auditorium. The Symphony’s Grammy award-winning Chorus Director, Ragnar Bohlin, was once a visiting professor at the University of Michi-gan. The Symphony will be under the direction of Michael Tilson Thomas (pictured), with a special violin performance from Gil Shaham. The setlist in-cludes Mephisto Waltz No. 1, Violin Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, and Daphnis et Chloé. November 14, 8 pm. General admission: $20. Reserved seating: $27. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave, Ann Arbor. --MRF

Mike “Funnyman and Musicman” DoughtyNovember 19 / The ArkWearing his many hats as a singer/songwriter, guitarist, poet, and author, Mike Doughty brings an interactive experience to his audiences with his “Question Jar Show.” The acoustic show invites attendees to drop questions in a jar to be read aloud and answered by Doughty throughout the performance. Doughty founded the band Soul Cough-ing in the 90s and since has released five albums, multiple EPs, and cover albums. 2014 has been a packed year for Doughty in particular, releasing two albums, titled “Stellar Motel” and a live album titled, “Live At Ken’s House.” $25. 8 pm. November, 19. The Ark, 316 S Main St, Ann Arbor. (734) 761-1451. theark.org. --MRF

Photo by Deborah Lopez

music

Photo by Bill Swerbenski


musichas put his thoughts and emo-tions into songs in a way that is original. Come check it out! 8:30-10:30pm. Free

Andrew Calhoun - Green Wood Coffee HouseThe American singer-songwrit-er since the age of twelve will take the stage and perform a multitude of his own songs as well as Scottish songs that he has translated from dialect and poems. 8pm. $15.

22 saturdaySarah Swanson Band - Crazy Wisdom BookstoreInfluenced by her parents 70’s music collection with an edgy alternative sound of today. In school she played in cover bands to make a living and now has been able to fulfill her dreams of song writing and

performing her own songs with a great band! 8:30-10:30pm. Free

The Ben Daniels Band - The ArkThis summer Ben Daniels was performing with his father, actor Jeff Daniels. Now enjoy Ben Daniels as an independent voice. The Ben Daniels Band has a sound that spans blues, hip hop, reggae and jazz. 8pm. $20.

25 tuesdayCold Tone Harvest/The Understorey - The ArkThis evening enjoy music from The Understorey’s Jess Mc-Cumons taking inspiration from Aretha Franklin, Alison Krauss, Brandi Carlile and Janis Joplin. She performs with her husband Matt McCumons creating

music ranging from folk, rock, gospel, blues and more. Bring a nonperishable item for admit-tance. 8pm. Free

OnGOinGFirst and Third SundaysCeltic Jam Session - Chelsea Alehouse BreweryStop by and Enjoy Celtic music or, if you play, feel free to jump in. 2-4pm.

cont. from page 22

More events online at

ecurrent.com


film

mator Zbigniew Rybczynski, whose Oscar winning short, Tango, begins with a static shot of a room that slowly fills with looped film of different people who enter the space, oblivious of all others. Kids play, a mom changes a dia-per, a couple makes love, and a man falls off a table and yells in pain. Made in 1980, long before any type of digital technology and without using blue screen, the film contin-ues to startle with its extraordinary technical prowess and cheeky silent commentary on modern life. (A local aside: Rybczynski hit it off so well with the volunteer chauffeur who picked him up from the Detroit airport that he mar-ried her.)

Legacy of Polish FilmThroughout history, Polish filmmakers have called the

political landscape as they’ve seen it, even when their films could not be shown in their own country. This Festival showcases a number of artists who, despite crushing obstacles, continue to contribute deep films full of wit. Podgorska recalls Agnieszka Holland fielding the question, “Why do you keep making mov-ies about the war?” with the an-swer, “Why do some directors keep making the same romantic

comedy?” Statements and substance are what matters. “We’re not geared for profit,” says Podgorska. “We simply believe in the importance of getting these great films out there. We’d love to have as big of an audience as we can get so we can keep making the festival better.”

In a recent NPR interview, Scorsese referred to “a strong tragic sense in Polish cinema…in balance with very, very strong strains of a spiritual resilience and also a dark comedy." The Ann Arbor Polish Film Festival pro-vides a unique opportunity to dive into this vibrant artistic tradition.

November 7-9. 603 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor(734) 668-8463. Organized by the Polish Cultural Fund of Ann Arbor in cooperation with the Polish-American

Congress Ann Arbor Chapter, the University of Michigan's Polish Club, and the University of Michigan.

Details—including showings at the Michigan Theater and a reception at Amadeus Restaurant—are available at

annarborpolonia.org/filmfestival

In the foreground: a battered, wooden, upside-down Christ sways back and forth in a ruined church. In the background: a young couple commiserates before, if you look closely, an emaciated white horse said to represent post-war Russian-occupied Poland.

The brief clip from Andrzej Wajda’s masterpiece Ash-es and Diamonds kicks off the preview of a retrospective of Polish film sponsored by Martin Scorsese and playing at the Michigan Theater on Monday nights through Decem-ber. The director of Raging Bull says that Polish movies taught him “not just how films are made but why.”

But Polish movies are hardly a mothball fleet; the country continues to produce some of the most power-ful and iconoclastic films in contemporary cinema. Since 1994, the Ann Arbor Polish Film Festival has been giving locals and visitors a unique chance to see some of the na-tion’s best and bravest.

A2 Festival History“Polish movies show relentless seeking of the truth,”

says Festival President Danuta Podgorska, “There’s a streak of non-conformity and also a unique sense of hu-mor. You don’t have that obstruction of glam-our that you find in so many Hollywood mov-ies.” She has been with the festival since 2005. What began as a show-case for four full-length features has expanded to include shorts, ani-mation, and documentaries. “We offer the documentaries for free,” says Podgorska. “They deal with the issues that people are facing right now. You might see several on the same subject; what’s exciting is that all the points of view will be unique.” And she’s thrilled that the Festival has re-cently added a jury-awarded prize, named for the late doc-umentarian Ewa Pieta. “Even to get a small cash award and to have been chosen as the top film in an American Film Festival can be huge to a struggling filmmaker.”

Pieta, who died of cancer at age 38, is a particularly inspired choice. As a special Festival guest in 2005, she presented her film Like a Butterfly. It tells of a child born quadriplegic who, after years unable to communicate, learned to communicate by blinking. The story may ring a bell with Cinetopia attendees; after seeing it, Polish direc-tor Maciej Pieprzyca created a feature version, Life Feels Good.

Other special guests have included the director Ag-nieszka Holland (“Europa, Europa”) and legendary ani-

film

Iron Curtain Butterfly Celebrating emerging Polish cinemaBy Nan Bauer

Ashes and Diamonds

Rybczynski’s Tango

Pieta’s Like a Butterfly


Othello3pm. $10. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. dia.org Directed by Orson Welles, this screen adaptation of the Shakespeare play Othello won the grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

16 sundayCentral Asia Film Series4pm. University of Michigan, Rackham Amphitheatre. Free Angel on the Right (Farishtai kitfi rost). Djamshed Usmonov, director. In Tajik with English subtitles (90 min., 2002).

21 fridayThe Lodger7:30-9pm. $8/adult; $6/senior; $5/college student; $4/youth; Free/under 5. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. dia.org The Little bang Theory performs for this newly restored Alfred Hitchcock silent film. Based on the crimes of Jack the Ripper this film introduces the theme, prominent in many Hitchcock films, of an innocent man hunted down by a self-righteous society.

22 saturdayThe Lavender Hill Mob3pm. $10.Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. dia.orgIn this comedy a thieving duo sets out to steal a load of gold and melt it down in order to smuggle it out of the country in the shape of miniature Eiffel Towers.

25 tuesdaySpirited Away7pm. $10/adult, $8/students, seniors & kids. State Theater, 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.org/stateThis Japanese animated story follows a young girl, as she and her family are trapped inside a strange fantasy world. She must find the courage to return her family to the outside world. Film is 125 minutes long and in Japanese with subtitles.

30 sundayMy Neighbor Totoro1:30pm. $10/general admission; Free/under 12. State Theater, 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.org This animated children’s story follows two young girls who find a new home in a mystical forest. Through magical crea-tures this film helps the young have great adventures, but also to understand the hardships in life.

1 saturdayThe Phenomenon of Bruno Groening1-7pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.netA film documenting a healer from the 1950s known world-wide. Viewers of the film often experience a power or current through the body while watch-ing, as well as a disappearance of pain, handicaps and other forms of suffering. Donations welcome. The Manxman3pm. $10. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit. 734-833-7900. dia.orgDirected by Alfred Hitchcock, this rarely seen silent feature follows two long time friends who fall in love with the same woman.

3 mondayAshes and Diamonds7pm. $10. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8397. michtheater.org A part of Martin Scorsese Presents: Masterpieces of Polish Cinema. The film is set on the last day of World War II in a small Polish town where a soldier has been ordered to assassinate an incoming com-missar.

5 wednesdayGrave of the Fireflies7pm. $10/general admission. State Theater, 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.org As bombs fall upon Japan two young girls are born in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The girls must fend for themselves, as the city lacks resources, in the aftermath of the fires.

Big Screen Anime The Michigan Theater showcases twelve films from Studio Ghibli. Favorites include Howl’s Moving Castle (Howl the wizard transforms young Sophie into an old woman), Ponyo (a goldfish princess escapes the sea to become human), and Grave of the Fireflies (young siblings strive to survive WWII Japan). Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation studio known for feature films and has also produced commercials, television films, and other short films. October 11 - December 10. Most shows start at 7pm, visit website for times. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8397. michtheater.org —MRF

The American Ambassadors to Japan6:30pm. Forsythe Middle School Auditorium, 1655 Newport Rd. 734-994-1985. A documentary produced by local independent film maker Tim Nagae. Ann Arbor Public Schools send 12 middle school and high school students to Hikone, Japan every two years to home-stay at Japanese na-tives homes, travel, and learn. The students learn the language and about the culture for 6 months prior to departing. This film follows the 2012 trip.

6 thursdayVlogzilla: The Art of the Vlog7pm. $10. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. dia.orgThis movie explores questions of why people vlog (video-log) and if it can be an art form. Film maker Zeke Anders will discuss his highly regarded American Seoul vlog series about growing up in Dearborn, Michigan and the diversity of this form of expression from around the world.

Martin at the Movies: Oscar Preview and a Toronto Film Festival Wrap-up7:30-8:30pm. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeMartin Bandyke, Ann Arbor 107one, discusses the hits and misses of this year at the To-ronto International Film Festival and which are receiving an early Oscar buzz.

8 saturdayThe Ladykillers3pm. $10. Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-7900. dia.org A cohort of thieves, posing as musicians, to silence their land lady who has knowledge of the next heist.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang1:30pm. $10/general admission; Free/under 12. State Theater, 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.orgDick Van Dyke stars in this film as a failed inventor who lives in a huge house with his two children. They save enough money to buy a junker car which transforms into a magical machine.

10 mondayThe Hourglass Sanatorium7pm. $10/general admission. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org A reflection on the nature of time and the irreversibility of the inevitable death. A young man travels through a long line of hallucinatory encounters on the grounds of the hospice where his father is dying. Called an adult Alice in Wonderland by England’s The Quiet magazine.

13 thursdayPrecious Knowledge6-8:30pm. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org FreeA political documentary about the banning of the Mexican American Studies Program in Tucson. The film follows four students and their teachers in the program and the progres-sion on the legislation as it is put into place in the school. The film will be followed by a discus-sion led by the UM Community Scholars Program.

15 saturdaySong Writing for Film and TV2-4pm. Pittsfield Library, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. 734-327-8301. aadl.org FreeLearn tips and tricks for creating music for film and TV from An-gela Predhomme, who has had music featured in The Voice, What Not to Wear and more.

film


ecurrent.com


This is the first play you will be directing for Civic. Talk about standing on stage versus sitting in the director’s chair.

As a director you’re responsible for all of it. You make all the decisions about what the audience will see on stage. One of your roles is to find what’s in the text and bring it to life; creating an atmosphere where the actors and ev-eryone involved are able to bring that to life. Now act-ing, that’s the scary side. You’ve got to actually take those words and make them real. Not just the words but what’s going on between the words, making that real. What do you try to do, as a director, to help your actors do that?

Every step of the way you’re trying to create an atmo-sphere where they can go where they need to go to get to those emotions and to bring them out. Every actor has their own way of going about things, their own process, how to get from A to B and finally to C, and you need to be able to recognize those things. The actors are going to be the ones that are going to be responsible for moving you, the audience. How true they are to their emotions and what they portray, what they bring to the moment, that is what is going to move you when you watch.

$22. November 21-23, Friday and Saturday 8pm; Saturday and Sunday 2pm, A2CT Studio Theater, 322 W.

Ann Street, Ann Arbor, (734) 971-0605, a2ct.org.

Ann Arbor’s Civic Theatre presents Harold Pinter’s Old Times, running November 21st through the 23rd. Pinter, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2005, is widely regarded as one of the leading playwrights of the 20th century. Yet, as Thomas Stack, who’ll be directing the play at the Civic’s Studio Theater says, “We don’t get to see Pinter in town that much. I think it’s great that Civic chose to do this play.”

Stack has a degree in theater and film from the Uni-versity of Michigan and has worked in film, television and theater in Los Angeles and Michigan. He’s been a mem-ber of the Civic for three years and has acted and worked in production on several plays there. We asked him to tell us about Old Times.Stack: It’s a psychological drama. A married couple re-unites with the wife’s friend from 20 years ago. Through the course of the evening secrets are revealed that jeopar-dize the relationships of all three characters. Current: Pinter said, “What goes on in my plays is realistic, but what I’m doing is not realism.” Would you talk about that?

We lie to tell truths. By creating fiction, we can create real moments and real emotions, and represent what we look for in life; the pain that we endure, the joy that we feel… I think Pinter does this extremely well.

Good Old Times At the Civic TheaterBy Sandor Slomovits

Left to right: Amy Bogetto-Weinraub, Glen Bugala, and Lori O'Dell

Photos by Lisa Gavan

visit annarbortortilla.com to see where you can find our products

GLUTEN FREE • NON-GMO • NO PRESERVATIVES • CREATED LOCALLY

Thank you to all of our loyal customers!

Director Thomas Stack

theater


theater1 saturday

‘Tick Tick...Boom’Auditions1pm. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre, 322 W. Ann St. 734-971-0605. a2ct.org From the author of Rent comes this musical on the courage it takes to follow your dreams. Those interested in auditioning should attend one of the scheduled audition times, November 1, 1pm, November 2, 4pm, and be available for callbacks on November 3, 7pm.

2 sundayLast Showing: Twelfth Night2pm. $11-$22. Arthur Miller Theatre at Walgreens Drama Center, 1226 Murfin Ave. 734-971-2228. a2ct.orgTwelfth Night is a veritable “feast of fools” in love. In Shakespeare’s delightful comedy, there are few lengths to which the characters will not go in order to pursue their pas-sions. Cross-dressing, mistaken identity, and slight-of-hand propel the various lovers into far-flung situations that only the original master of comedy can set right.

7 fridaySwing Dance Party8pm. $5/$4 students with ID/$1 off members. The Phoenix Center, 220 S. Main St. 734-417-9857. aactmad.orgDances include the Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Charleston, Blues and the Balboa. Free be-ginner lessons will be held from 8-9pm with the open dance to follow.

8 saturdayScandinavian Dance5pm. $5/$3 students. Pittsfield Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 908-721-2599. Dancing to both recorded and live music from Sweden and Norway. No partner is necessary and flat hard soled shoes are recom-mended. Lessons will be held from 5-6pm, followed by the open dance.

9 sundayDancing Pros Live3pm. $39-$59. The Whiting, 1241 E. Kearsley St., Flint. 734-237-7333. thewhiting.com Some of the world’s best danc-ers will be battling on stage in

hopes of winning the audi-ence over and being voted the winner.

Wild Swan Theater’s Birthday Party1pm. $15; $50/four pack. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org The Wild Swan Theater is celebrating 35 years! Enjoy talented musicians, performers, and storytellers. Also, there will be cake!

13 thursdayOpening Night: Dead Man Walking7:30pm. $10-$28. Power Center, 121 Fletcher St. 734-647-3327. music.umich.edu A story of a nun and her experience as a spiritual advisor for an inmate on death row. Show times include No-vember 14 and 15 at 8pm and November 16 at 2pm.

16 sundayVanya and Sonia and Masha and Mike6pm. $7. Elgood Theater, 1220 E. Kearsley St., Flint. 810-237-7333. thewhiting.com Playwright Christopher Durang molds four completely different characters and odd conflicts into a Tony Award winning play.

20 thursdayOpening Night: Caroline, or Change7:30pm. $28/general admission; $10/student ID. Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin Ave. 734-764-2538. music.umich.edu Set in a lazy town in Louisiana this play follows the life of a

divorced African Ameri-can woman, Caroline, working as a maid for a family. When Caroline is put in a sticky situation she needs to decide how to handle it. Show times are November 21 and 22 at 8pm and November 23 at 2pm.Opening Night: Seussical7pm. $15 adults/ $10 children and stu-dents. Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, 911 N. University Ave. 734-222-4006. youngpeoplestheater.com One of the most performed musicals in America, it follows the many characters that star in Dr. Seuss books including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz and more! Other show times include November 21 and 22 at 7pm, November 22 at 1pm and November 23 at 2pm. 21 fridayOpening Night: Old TimesAnn Arbor Civic Theatre, 322 W. Ann St.. 8:00 pm. $12. 734-971-0605. a2ct.org Love. Hate. Betrayal. No one writes it better than Pinter! This character-driven drama explores the complex relationships between a husband, a wife, and the wife’s old friend during the course of one intense, jealousy-fueled evening. Other show times include November 22 at 2pm and 8pm and November 23 at 2pm.

Wanda Sykes8pm. $29.50-$59.50. The Whiting, 1241 E. Kearsley St., Flint. 810-237-7333. thewhiting.com Wanda Sykes has been called “one of the funniest stand-up comics” by her peers and ranks among Entertainment Weekly’s 25 Funniest People in America!

The Mountain comes to townAnnapurna, a Sharr White play showing at The Purple Rose Theater throughout the month, showcases the dilemma of forgetting significant moments in life and love. The show was selected as a finalist for the Steinberg/ATCA New Play Award after its 2011 debut in San Francisco. White’s plays have been featured around the country and internationally. $18-$37. Wednes-days through Sundays. Matinee shows at 2 pm and 3 pm on Wednesdays and weekends, 7pm on Thursdays, and 8 pm Fridays and Saturdays through December 20. The Purple Rose Theater, 137 Park St., Chelsea, MI, 48118, (734) 433-7782, thepurplerosethreater.org —MRF

Photo by Sean Carter PhotographyRichard McWilliams & Michelle Mountain as Ulysses and Emma

She has also been seen in many TV shows and movies. Don’t miss out on this hilarious event!

Opening Night: Upper School Play7:30pm. $10 students; $12 adults. Greenhills School, 850 Greenhills Dr. , Ann Arbor. 734-205-4098. greenhillss-chool.org “Moon Over Buffalo” is the story of two fading stars in 1950’s New York. On the brink of a split they see a last chance at stardom, but everything that can go wrong will. Other show times include November 22 at 7:30pm and November 23 at 2pm.

ONgOiNgWednesdays- SundaysAnnapurna$6-$12. The Purple Rose Theatre, 137 Park St., Chelsea. 734-433-7673. purplerosetheatre.org This heartfelt and remarkable comedy shares the story of the dilemma and unpredictable mo-ments of love. Contains partial nudity and adult language and themes. Show times vary and can be found on the website. Running Wednesdays through Sundays through December 20.

SundaysComedy Open Mic Night8pm. $5 donation. The Mix Studio Theater, 8 N. Washington St., Ypsilanti. ChiliChallis.com Chili Challis’ UNclub comedy open mic night for up and com-ing comics with Emcee Mark Sweetman. Through December 28.

Be a part of the guide thatshows the readers the hippest presents, from the eco-friendly to the quirky.

holidayholidayGiftGuideGiftGuide


The Power of an ImageIn conversation with Francoise MoulyBy Brandon Bye

art

Francoise Mouly has been the art editor of The New Yorker since 1993, re-sponsible for over 1,000 covers including the 9/11 black-on-black cover and the con-troversial Obama fist-bump cover. She is also the editorial director of Toon Books, publisher of kids’ books by comic-strip artists. Mouly, featured in this month’s U-M Penny Stamps Distinguished Speak-er Series, took some time to talk with us about The New Yorker, narrative art, and her latest Toon Books release: Hansel and Gretel, retold by author Neil Gaiman and illustrator Lorenzo Mattotti. How does humor play into selecting a New Yorker cover?

It’s essential. The New Yorker was started as a humor magazine in 1925, and even when they began adding more seri-ous reporting, it kept the cartoons, it kept the Shouts and Murmurs, and it kept the poetry, fiction, and cover art. So it’s not a fashion magazine, not a news magazine, not a literary magazine. And I think that is what keeps it alive in the 21st century. Right, it offers different pointsof view, sometimes provocative points of view, from different contributors.

Yes, whether it’s Saul Steinberg or John Updike or up-and-coming fiction writers and poets, you can’t think of hu-mor as something other than individual point of view—there’s no such thing as corporate humor, for example. That, it-self, is a joke... What people come to The New Yorker for is the point of view of its contributors. Whether it’s the art or the edit,the points of view tend to stay relevant, too. Old New Yorker issues are kept around some-times years after the pub date.

Yes, it doesn’t become obsolete when next week’s issue comes out. And the art is a really important component there. It’s an image making a comment about something timely or timeless. The art-ists depict narratives about our lives and how we live that you can look at and get a detailed sense of the times, what makes people laugh, their attitudes and preju-dices. They actually highlight the subtext of how we live. For example, there’s a series of covers that capture the chang-ing attitudes about gay marriage. In 1993 we had a cover with two men standing on top of a wedding cake, which at the time was a shocking image. And we received a lot or kickback at the time, saying “how dare you put that topic on the cover of the magazine.” It provokes debate. And the topic evolves from shocking to accep-tance.

You mentioned narrative art.Can you talk a little bit about the difference between how im-ages and words are used convey stories?

Images have a power, whether they be comics or single images on the cover of The New Yorker, they have a power that runs parallel to what words can do. They have to be read and deciphered and there’s an interaction with the reader. For example, we ran a cover of a woman who was getting ready for her wedding and her belly shows she is in the late stage of pregnancy. I received a letter from a woman who said, “how dare you put this on the cover of my New Yorker. I have a young teenage girl and I would never want her to see this image.” And if I could have written back , I would have said, “Madame, if this is such an impor-tant issue for you, that your daughter re-mains a virgin until she’s married, why don’t you put the magazine on the coffee table and have a conversation about it.” It’s a point of departure. The cover is not telling you that you have to be preg-nant to get married or that you should be pregnant before marriage. There is no didactic propaganda in the image, it’s a representation of something people have to contend with. It’s a starting point for discussion. Beyond your role at The New Yorker, you also publish comics and children’s books. What are you currently working on?

We [Toon Graphics] have an illus-trated book coming out on the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel, written by Neil Gaiman and illustrated by Lorenzo Mat-totti. For me it’s a rediscovery of the power of words and images put together. You know what’s going to happen in the story, but the way the words and images work together creates a new experience.Hansel and Gretel, that’s apretty dark and old story.

When I asked Neil if he’d be willing to write it, he said he’d been waiting all his life someone to ask him to write Hansel and Gretel, because when he was a kid he heard the story on the radio and he was chilled to his bones. It was the first time he realized that we humans are made of meat that could be eaten. He wrote us a really beautiful version, extremely vivid and all about hunger and the smells and tastes and physical senses of these chil-dren lost in the forest.

November 20, 5:10pm, Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty Street, Ann Arbor, MI,

48104, (734) 668-8463, Free.

Photo by Sarah Shatz


1 saturdayAnn Arbor StAmp Show10am-5pm. Morris Lawrence Building, 4800 E. Huron Dr. 734-761-5859. Free annarborstampclub.org28 dealers from eight different states, youth area, exhibits and more! Also on November 2 from 10am-4pm.

2 sundaySilk ScArf Dyeing11am-1:30pm. $40, $10 studio fee. Two Twelve Arts Center, 216 W. Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-994-2787. twotwelvearts.org Learn ways to manipulate fabric in order to achieve dif-ferent patterns with dyes. Two scarves will be dyed during class.

give the wheel A whirl1-3pm. $25, $10 studio fee. Two Twelve Arts Center, 216 W. Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-994-2787. twotwelvearts.orgThis class will provide a quick introduction to preparing and centering clay on the pottery wheel. You will make a glazed and a fired piece. Space is limited so register early!

4 tuesdaycrAzy polymer clAy cAneS9:30-11:30am. $25. Two Twelve Arts Center, 216 W. Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-994-2787. twotwelvearts.orgLearn to create ornaments, a simple dish or coasters by rolling up multiple colors of polymer clay and slicing into pieces.

5 wednesdayDreAmScApeS6:30-8:30pm. $30. Two Twelve Arts Center, 216 W. Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-994-2787. twotwelvearts.org Create landscapes that would only be seen in a dream. Stu-dents will create visual depth similar to surrealism. Materials are provided, but students can also bring their own for a more personal touch.

new fiber 2014 reception4-7pm. Eastern Michigan University, University Gallery, 900 Oakwood St., Ypsilanti. fiberartsnetwork.org FreeA national juried exhibition of contemporary fiber art. Works done in many styles and rooted in traditional approaches.

6 thursdaynovember gAllery exhibit opening reception5-7pm. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Avenue. 734-769-2999. kerrytownconcerthouse.com FreeThis exhibit includes the work of Alice Frank. Her works are composed of mixed media and mixed water media. The show will be on Monday-Friday 9:30am-5pm through Decem-ber 1.

9 sundayengAging with Art1-2pm. University of Michigan Museum of Art, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu FreeUMMA docents will tour through the galleries with a planned theme and approach to specific objects. Individu-ally planned by the docent to express his or her ideas and interests.

14 fridaylAnDScApe Art Show opening reception7-9pm. Two Twelve Arts Center, 216 W. Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-944-2787. twotwelvearts.org FreeA collection of landscape pieces created in or inspired by the Landscape Series classes. The works feature a variety of styles and mediums. The show will be on display November 1-25.

15 saturdayholiDAy Art fAirSaturday, 10am-6pm & Sunday, 11am-5pm. $5/person, free/kids un-der 12. Eastern Michigan University Convocation Center, 799 N. Hewitt Rd., Ypsilanti. theguild.org/fairs/holiday-art-fairPresented by The Guild of Art-ists & Artisans, the fair features unique gifts and over 100 jury-selected artists. Holiday entertainment and kids’ art activities also available.

17 mondayAnn Arbor women ArtiStS progrAm7-8pm. AAWA Headquarters, 4844 Jackson Rd. Suite 100, Ann Arbor. 734-662-6671. annarborwomenartists.org FreeSue Holdaway-Heys is a professional quilt artist from Ann Arbor, whose work has been shown extensively, both locally and nationally. She has received awards from the American Quilt Society Show, The Ella Sharpe Museum and the Ann Arbor Art Center, among many others. Her work is in numerous public and private collections and one of her dolls is in the White House collection.

19 wednesdaynovember Art therApy workShop11am-1pm & 4-6pm. Cancer Center Level 1 Rm 1139, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr. 734-615-4012. mcancer.org Free Free to cancer patients and their guests. Make Holiday greeting cards using the technique of printmaking. Bring sample drawings or pictures that can be used for the card design. No prior experience re-quired. Registration is required.

ongoingMondaysAcrylic/oil pAintingTwo Twelve Arts Center, 216 W. Michigan Ave., Saline. 9-11:30am or 6:30-9pm. $72, $15 studio fee. 734-994-2787. twotwelvearts.orgExperiment with the basics of using oil and acrylic paints and medium. Learn to mix colors, under paint, setting up a com-position and basic color theory. November 3-24.

DailyeqilibriumMalletts Creek Library, 3090 E. Eisenhower Parkway. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeThis exhibition explores the artist’s, Cathy Barry, interest in land, space, and cosmos from all different view points. Using techniques such as splattering, sanding, scraping and layering she presents beautiful images. On view through December 11 during library hours. Library is closed on November 27.

youriSt StuDio group Show: cerAmicS8am-8pm.Gifts of Art Gallery, 1500 E. Medical Dr. 734-936-4000. med.umich.edu/goa FreeThis show represents a collec-tion of works from students, teachers and members whose pieces were all made at the Ann Arbor studio. Working with clay is therapeutic for many and the artists are thrilled to be exhibiting their work.

geneSiSUniversity of Michigan Residential Art Gallery, 701 E. University. 734-763-0032. events.umich.edu FreeAward winning artist Dan Hernandez’s technical, iconic video game inspired paintings translated to Renaissance style. Through November 26.

92nD AnnuAl All meDiA exhibitionAnn Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org FreeSubmissions are accepted in any media and the juried com-petition is open to all artists. Come out to see the types of work submitted and the win-ners. The Art Center is open 10am-7pm Monday-Thursday, 10am-8pm Friday, 10am-6pm Saturday, 12-5pm Sunday.

purSuit of hAppineSS, continueD Tuesday and Wednesday, noon-6-pm/ Thursday, noon-9pm/Friday & Saturday, noon-10pm/Sunday, noon-5pm. WSG Gallery, 306 S. Main St., 734-761-2287. wsg-art.com Free Adrienne Kaplan’s series of large paintings inspired by the Declaration of Independence on display. Contemporary ap-proach to impressionist style and themes. through Novem-ber 29.

WeekdaysreAching for the light8am-9pm. Rackham Graduate School, 915 E. Washington St. 734-764-4400. rackham.umich.edu FreeAll invitational, all media 2D fine art exhibition with over 40 artists and 52 artworks from the Rackham Graduate School. Through December 15.

glassblowing classLearn the basic techniques of glassblowing and use this ancient artform to transform creative ideas into crafts. the baron glassworks furnace Studio and gallery in Ypsilanti will host a furnace glassblowing class taught by master glassblower, Annette Baron. Baron’s art can be seen around the greater Ann Arbor community, including Succulent, a piece on permanent display in the Chelsea Community Hospital atrium. Take home your own hand-crafted glass art to display. November 22, noon-3pm. $79. Baron Glassworks, 838 Railroad St., Ypsilanti.—MF

more events online at

ecurrent.com

art


the pieces of a world. We just need the right ones. […] Basically, if you’re world building you must set the rules for the world early and with command so the reader never hesitates or pauses […] You get their trust by being in control of the story the whole time, and by handling strangeness and difference with grace, expertise, and confidence. Some stories seem to be asking for us to read them more directly as metaphors or parables. I’m thinking about the story “Someone Else’s Baby” in particular, which even uses the word fable at one point.

I love fables and fairy tales. They are basic narratives. The characters are often archetypes. They stand in for humanity. For you, in some cases. They strip away every distraction, including the distraction of reality. They let your mind play and through play you discover new things, most often about basic human nature. Fables, fairy tales, parables are a foundation for the more involved world building of later novels and stories. But all this writing is doing the same basic work. If you stripped all the detail and the extraneous characters out of some chunky family saga, what would you be left with? I like to think it would look a little like a fable but would still be able to offer its small gem of instruction; some kind of revelation, some lesson of life.

November 5, 7pm, Literati Bookstore,

124 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor, (734) 585-5567,

literatibookstore.com

NPR personality Ira Glass calls Diane Cook’s new collection of stories “dispatches from the end of the world.” While the ten stories in Man V. Nature cover ground tonally and in terms of subject matter, many inhabit that often mined end-times trope. What makes Diane Cook’s new collection interesting, and so often moving, is not the wasteland that her characters troll through but in the characters themselves, written with refreshing empathy and skill, equal parts humor and severity. What was the impetus for writingthese stories, many of which deal with strange and terrifying situations or settings?

For the book, a common fascination was with the natural world and our deep, ancient though seemingly tenuous connection to a more primal self: the urges, instincts, fears, actions. I started to imagine people having to deal with situations not mitigated by civilization. Inviting a kind of wildness in. One thing I like about the stories is how impossible they feel even while aspects of the worlds, featuring urban and suburban settings, feel familiar. I want a reader to think, Hey, I recognize this world but the rules are strange…” and then to begin to question whether what they’re seeing is actually all that strange. Maybe that’s when the stories can seem a little terrifying?There is a great deal of humanity in these stories, despite the motivations of the char-acters being largely driven by survival. What do you see as the relationship between sur-vival instinct and the desire for companion-ship in the book?

That thread of survival running through the book is both in conflict and in concert with the need for others. I think most of the characters are desperately trying to connect with one another. But sometimes they can’t. They can’t or won’t change in a way that could help them or another. Maybe because this other desperate impulse to self-protect kicks in. Which is a kind of survival mechanism, though not always useful and certainly often at odds with the rest of the world. I’m interested in the way you build the strange and unfamiliar worlds of these sto-ries with some degree of nonchalance. Do you think about narrative delay or restraint as an important aspect of your writing?

The nonchalance is a way of saying, It’s no big deal, don’t worry about it, just come on. We don’t need all

The book or the movie? Nicholas Rombes’s debut novel, The Absolution of Roberto Acestes Laing, brings readers to a world where cinema and reality are intertwined. The story follows Roberto Acestes Laing, a highly regarded filmmaker, whose work is mysteriously burned by an old librarian. Laing agrees to tell the story of his forgotten career to a journalist, but only through a cinematic lens. Rombes teaches at the University of Detroit Mercy, and his writing has appeared in The Believer, Filmmaker Magazine and the Los Angeles Review of Books. November 12, 7pm. Free. Literati Bookstore, 124 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, (734) 585-5567. literatibookstore.com—MRF

A Book of RevelationsDiane Cook’s Dystopian FictionBy Russ Brakefield

Photo by Katherine Rondina

literature


3 MondayLocal Author Leslie Stainton7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com FreeA reading and discussion of her new book about the history of the Fulton Theater in Pennsylva-nia built over 250 years ago. Poetry at Literati7pm. Literati Bookstore, 124 E. Washington St. 734-585-5567. literatibookstore.com FreeAnne-Marie Oomen, Teresa Scollon and Ellen Stone will fill the evening with readings from their own poems, memoirs, essays and more.

5 WednesdaySweater Weather Benefit: Fall Fundraiser Dinner6pm. $100/dinner; $200/dinner and reception. Eight & Sand, 3901 Christopher St., Hamtramck. 734-761-3463. sweaterweather.brownpapertickets.com Benefit dinner with special guest, Dave Eggers. The cuisine will be provided by Detroit chef Brad Greenhill of Righteous Rojo/Katoi, cocktails from Two James Spirit and a meet and greet with Eggers, scheduled for 6pm. Dinner starts at 7pm. Proceeds benefit 826michigan’s In-School Residencies in Detroit. Purchase tickets online.

Fiction at Literati7pm. Literati Bookstore, 124 E. Washington St. 734-585-5567. literatibookstore.com FreeDiane Cook will read her debut story collection titled Man V. Nature. Her stories are bold, hilarious and sometimes crude, often surprising the reader with the stories end.

6 ThursdayMeet Internationally Bestselling Author John Connolly7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com FreeDublin based author comes for a meet and greet and to talk about his new book The Wolf in Winter: A Charlie Parker Thriller.

Emerging Writers Workshop7-8:45pm. Traverwood Library, 3333 Traverwood Dr. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeLearn the tips, tricks and strate-gies for making a place in your schedule to finish your writings. 9 SundayDuncan Hines: How A Traveling Salesman Became The Most Trusted Name in Food3-5pm. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeAuthor Louis Hatchett explores the story of Duncan Hines, a traveling salesman during the 1920s and 1930s. During his travels he discovered restau-rants and shared his recom-

current readsmendations in his best-selling compilation book, Adventures in Good Eating.

11 TuesdayLove and Treasure7-8:30pm. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeAuthor Ayelet Waldman discusses her new novel. This book tells a tale of the true history of the Hungarian Gold Train during WWII. This event is a part of the 2014 Jewish Book Festival and will include a signing and sale of the book.

12 WednesdayPoetry Workshop 7-9pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net FreeAll writers are welcome to share and discuss their poetry and short fiction pieces. Reg-istration for new participants begins at 6:45pm.

13 ThursdayMeet AuthorMonica McFawn7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com FreeFlannery O’Connor Award winning short story author talks about her short story collection Bright Shards of Someplace Else.

16 SundayI See You Made an Effort:Compliments, Indignities, and Survival Stories from the Edge of 50 7-9pm. LIVE, 102 S. 1st St. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeActress/comedienne/writer Annabelle Gurwitch discusses her hilarious collection of essays about hitting the half century mark and everything that comes along with it. 17 MondayHarry Dolan Book Signing7pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com FreeLocal author will read and sign his mystery novel The Last Dead Girl.

Robin Silbergleid Reading7pm. Literati Bookstore, 124 E. Washington St. 734-585-5567. literatibookstore.com An associate professor of English at MSU where she directs the creative writing program. She is the author of books and poems. Her essays and scholarship can be found in journals and anthologies online and in print. 18 TuesdayBook Signing and Talk7pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net FreeLisa Viger, author of Afford-able, Easy Raw: How to Go Raw on $10 a Day, discusses the benefits of a raw food diet and easy ways to transition to the diet affordably.

LocaL ReadS


ecurrent.com

19 WednesdayHistoric Ann Arbor: An Architectural Guide12-1pm. $2/ $1 members. Kempf House Museum, 312 S. Division St.. 734-994-4898. kempfhousemuseum.org Authors Patrick McCauley and Susan Wineberg will review their recent book which covers the city’s early to modern architec-ture using photos.

24 MondayKatherine Freese Book Signing7:00 pm. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com FreeProfessor of Physics at UM will be discussing her book, Cosmic Cocktail: Three Parts of Dark Matter. This story discusses one of the biggest unknowns in science, what is the universe made of?

OngOing SundaysNaNoWriMo Write in2-5pm. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeWorking on your novel for Na-tional Novel Writing Month. Come to this open writing session where you can brainstorm with other writers or just work solo. Through November 23.

Last Tuesday of the MonthAfrican American Authors Book Group7pm. Ypsilanti District Library- Whittaker , 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org FreeJoining a book group is a great way to meet new people and experience the fun of discuss-ing a book together. Explore the works of great African American authors in a group setting. This month’s book is A Different Kind of Christmas by Alex Hailey.

Second and Fourth Monday of the Month Mystery Lovers Book Group2:00 pm. Ypsilanti District Library- Whittaker: Conference Room 1C , 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org FreeJoin other amateur sleuths once a month to discuss mystery novels. This month’s books are November 10 Laura and Novem-ber 24 The Usual Suspects.


sports

But it’s undeniable that John Beilein has succeeded by any measure. He consistently beats ranked opponents, in-cluding long time nemesis Michigan State – beating them six of the last nine contests - MSU had won the previ-ous 18 of 21. He also does well in the postseason, with a gaudy 16-9 record in the NCAA tournament. And he not only recruits top prospects, but develops them - with stars such as Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway, Nik Stauskas, Glenn Robinson Jr., and Mitch McGary in the NBA. Re-markably, these were all five of his starters from the 2013 NCAA championship game.

The downside of such excellent player development is that Beilein has to scramble to replace those who leave early for the pros. The 2014-2015 season will be no ex-ception, but already there is great buzz about promising recruits. Especially keep an eye on freshmen Muhammad Ali Abdur-Rahkman, Kameron Chatman, Ricky Doyle, and Aubrey Dawkins, not to mention inspirational story Austin Hatch - who perseveres despite two separate air-plane accidents that tragically saw five family members perish. These young men will join returning regulars Caris LeVert, Derrick Walton, Zak Irvin, Spike Albrecht, and a potentially surprising Mark Donnal (a redshirt freshman last year).

They will be in good hands with John Beilein, a man who leads. He has been recognized as “Coach of the Year” five times, with five different schools, at various competi-tive levels. He has unscrupulous integrity, even refraining from talking to his own son at a basketball camp because it might run afoul of the NCAA’s Byzantine regulations. He is unfailingly gracious and patient, as loyal to his own players as he would be to his own son, always deferring praise to the young men he serves.

Perhaps most importantly in this dark time of Michi-gan sports, Coach Beilein has always been an honest and straight shooter with the media, his team, and his ad-ministration. After an unforgettable and horrific football season, Michigan supporters sorely need relief as well. Fortunately we can count on Coach John Beilein to give them something to get excited about.

This article is written at a moment of crisis. Hun-dreds appeared on the U-M Diag, still in September, and marched to President Mark Schlissel’s house to call for the resignation of Athletic Director David Brandon. Thou-sands more signed petitions, wrote social media posts, and otherwise expressed their outrage at the arrogance, miscommunication, and incompetence that is the shame of this athletic administration. Whether Brandon survives the wreck is undetermined, but it’s going to be my bet that he somehow survives as you read this article 30 days hence.

One shining beacon in this darkness has been U-M basketball coach John Beilein. The man has done just two things since he’s been here: win, and lead with integrity. Can it really be his eighth season already? All he’s done is win two Big Ten titles and lead the team to the NCAA tournament in five of the last six years, including the championship game in 2013. Of-ten he does this with a crew of players that overachieves the sum of its parts, defying pre-season predictions in the process.

It’s also hard to believe that not long before Beilein was hired by Dave Brandon’s predecessor, the basket-ball program was in perhaps even worse disarray than football is now. In 1999 four players were called before a federal grand jury and revealed troubling financial ties with booster Ed Martin. This eventually led to draconian NCAA punishments—vacating of team honors and indi-vidual awards, and the loss of scholarships.

The team didn’t do so well either, with an assortment of borderline players that often found themselves in legal trouble. Former Duke basketball star Tommy Amaker came in to clean up the program, still suffering from the weight of the sanctions, and performed admirably, without a whiff of scandal. While Amaker won more than he lost, he never achieved the same level of success as Beilein. His termination was controversial, with defenders point-ing out that he won in spite of the shadow of the NCAA sanctions that still loomed over the program.

U-M BASKETBALL Can’t come soon enoughBy Nick Roumel

Mic

hael

Bar

era

/ com

mon

s.w

ikim

edia

.org


May the physics be with youInvestigate Newton’s laws of motion with hands-on activities and experiments during ScienceFest: Motion Madness. Learn about inertia and how to defy gravity with hovercrafts and rocket balloons. Through demonstrations, you will discover the relationship between objects and forces, and what makes things move. At 1pm and 3pm, Professor Ray’s Everyday Science lab will teach about luminosity, by transforming electricity into light with interactive demonstrations. Saturday, November 22. 10am. $12/adults and children, free/ages 2 and under. $5 after 5pm on Thursday only. The Ann Arbor Hands On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-944-5493. aahom.org —MLR

everything elseOngOingTuesdaysKnitting Plus6-8:30pm YDL-Michigan Ave, 229 W. Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org FreeJoin in for an evening of knitting. All are welcome. Bring your own supplies and instructions will be provided during the first hour of the class. Through November. No session will be held on November 11.

FridaysCommunity HU Chant6:30pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net FreeSinging HU, an ancient name for God, is a great way to tune into the spiritual cur-rents and initiate profound spiritual experiences. Popular in many cultures, the singing of HU is an undirected prayer to harmonize consciousness and open the heart. Through December.

SaturdaysPalmistry Readings3-6pm. $1.50 per minute . Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net What do the lines of your hand reveal about your life? Vijayalaxmi Shinde can reveal the hidden truths. First and third Saturdays of every month.

DW

IGH

T BU

RD

ETTE


everything elseimpact, both positively and negatively, on media outlets and how marketers and media can find a win-win scenario. 6 thursday”The Sensory Regime of the Museum: Early His-tory and Breaking Devel-opments”7-8pm. UM Museum of Art (audito-rium), 525 South State St. 734-936-6678. ummsp.rackham.umich.edu FreeThis presentation will explore museums as places that privilege the sense of sight as opposed to experiences from centuries past, where visitors were allowed and encouraged to physically interact with ob-jects. Contemporary attempts by museums to return to multi-sensory visitor engage-ment will be presented.

Penny W. Stamps Speaker Series: Inta Ruka5pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Lib-erty St. stamps.umich.edu/stamps For more than two decades, Latvian photographer Inta Ruka has photographed the people to provide an undis-guised view on the current state of flux in Latvia since its integration into the European Union.

Smarty Pants Trivia Smackdown8-10pm. Chelsea Alehouse Brewery, 420 N. Main St #100, Chelsea. 734-475-2337. chelseaalehouse.com FreeBring your group of friends or join in with another team and show off your smarts. It’s free to play and the top two teams win prizes. Also join in on November 18.

7 fridayFun Friday Night5-8pm. Museum on Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.eduJoin for a little bit of every-thing this evening! Free children’s story time at 6pm, children must be accompanied by an adult. Birds: Their Lives and Lunches demo at 6:30pm. Free dinosaur tour at 7pm, limit of 15 people. Planetarium shows at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30pm, each are 30 minutes and cost $3.

How to Use a Telescope with the University Low-brow Astronomers7-9pm. $5. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Have a telescope at home but uncertain how to use it? Want to get a telescope but unsure what kind to purchase? Join LSNC and the University

Lowbrow Astronomers as we take a look at how to use telescopes and learn about how to determine the tele-scope that fits you and your sky-watching hobbies best! Registration is required. SASHA Farm Benefit Ban-quet for the Animals6-10pm. $100 per person. The Meeting House, 499 South Main St., Plymouth. 734-428-9617. sashafarm.orgEnjoy stories about the animals, bid on items up for auction, music and more. Help us raise money for the over 200 rescued animals that live at SASHA Farm. Vegan dinner served at 7:00pm. Purchase tickets online by November 3. 8 saturdayPenny W. Stamps Speaker Series: Harrell Fletcher1pm. Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. stamps.umich.edu/stamps FreeHarrell Fletcher has worked collaboratively and individu-ally on a variety of socially engaged, interdisciplinary projects for over fifteen years. A hallmark of his work is the transformation of everyday experiences and objects of community residents into curated exhibitions.

Wine Women and Shopping10am-6pm. Downtown Chelsea, 118 S. Main St., Chelsea. facebook.com/winewomenandshopping A fun filled day to share with moms, sisters and friends. Boutiques have done every-thing possible to make sure the day is enjoyed to the max.

Cold Winter Bicycling Talk1-2pm. YDL- Michigan Ave, 229 West Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti. 734-487-9058. bikeypsi.org FreeLearn how to dress for cold weather riding, what precau-tions to take, what equipment your bicycle should have, hints for riding at night and what special maintenance proce-dures are needed. Sponsored by the City of Ypsilanti Non-

Motorized Advisory Commit-tee and Bike Ypsi.

9 sundayThe Women’s Internation-al League for Peace and Freedom Meeting4pm. Hathaway’s Hideaway, 310 S. Ashley St. 734-761-7967. WILPF will be holding a meet-ing today. Join in and receive a brief history of WILPF, travel to The Hague Women’s Power to Stop War movement and establish local women’s peace network.

Beyond Coincidence2-3:15pm. $10. Crazy Wisdom Book-store and Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.netEverything happens for a reason, learn to recognize the subtle signs that relate to healing, growth and expres-sion.

Bird Hills Nature Area Stewardship Workday1-4pm. Bird Hills Nature Area, Bird Rd. 734-794-6627. a2gov.org/NAPHelp reserve some of the floristic quality by collecting native plant seeds in the area. Learn to identify native plants in the seed-bearing stage of their growth cycle. Meet at the Bird Road entrance. 11 tuesdayArlington Michigan Display11am-5:30pm. Veterans Park, Jackson Avenue at Maple Road. 734-487-9058. vfp93.org FreeVeterans Day memorial display of one cross for every Michigan soldier lost in the Iraq and Afghan wars (226 crosses). The purpose of this display is to honor those who have fallen, to provide a place to grieve, and to educate the public about the costs of war, as well as the needs of those returning from conflicts Peace ceremony at 11am.

Democratic Party Meeting2-3pm. Ann Arbor Community Cen-ter, 625 N. Main St. 734-662-3128. annarbor-communitycenter.org Ann Arbor Democrats con-vene to discuss political issues. Second Saturday of each month. SundaysExtrasolar Planets - Discovering New Worlds2:30pm. $5. Museum on Natural His-tory, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.eduAn exploration into new worlds beyond our solar system and the possibility that they are habitable and the chances that there may be intelligent life. With the Kepler and planet finder missions a success, detecting alien life may no longer be science fic-tion. Through November.

2 sundayThe Top Ten Hostas10am-2pm. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu FreeA long time member of the American Hosta Society gives a presentations on the top-ten hostas, hosta introductions, companion trees and wood-landers. Bring a lunch or dish to pass with utensils.

27th Annual Teddy Bear Show10am-3pm. $6/adults; $2/children. Weber’s Inn, 3050 Jackson Rd. bright-star-promotions.comTeddy bear artists from around the world will be showing and selling their unique teddy bears. Also bring any vintage toys and teddy bears along as there will be appraisals on site. All Soul’s/Day of the Dead6-8:30pm. $5 suggested donation. Friends Meetinghouse Fellowship, 1420 Hill St. 734-395-9660. A gathering to remember and honor those who have passed on through music, food and ceremony. Bring a dish to pass if possible. Open to all. RSVP requested but not required.

5 wednesdayThe Natives are Restless: Are Media and Market-ers Friends, Enemies or Frienemies? - Eric Cedo11:45am-1pm. $5. Conor O’Neill’s, 318 S. Main St. 734-272-4698. la2m.org While traditional media outlets struggle to produce relevant news with fewer recourses and retain audience share, marketers have an increased interest in native advertising, content marketing and custom content.n this discussion marketers will gain a better understanding of the dynam-ics of native advertising, its

CONTINUED ON P.36


everything elseRegulations and Honeybee Health6:30-8:30pm. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu FreeLearn about the regulations for honeybees and current issues with honeybee health, specifically the honeybees in Michigan. Open to anyone interested in bees.

Witches’ Night Out7-9pm. $3.25. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.netJoin in for some tea and networking. Meet others with a like mind and enjoy some Witch Brew tea.

12 wednesdayHistory of Arab Americans in Michigan12-1pm. $2; $1 members. Kempf House Museum, 312 S. Division St. 734-994-4898. kempfhousemuseum.org Researcher at the Arab Na-tional Museum offers general picture of the national Arab American Community with an emphasis on Michigan.

Saving Publishers, Elevat-ing Brands11:45am-1pm. $5. Conor O’Neill’s, 318 S. Main St. 734-272-4698. la2m.orgEveryone is jumping on the Sponsored Social bandwagon looking for an opportunity to sell blog posts, tweets, Insta-gram photos and more. Learn about the history of the space tips for cashing in on spon-sored content for publishers and creators alike. 13 thursdayPenny W. Stamps Speaker Series: Anab Jain, Superflux5pm. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Lib-erty. stamps.umich.edu/stamps FreeAnab Jain is a designer, filmmaker and founder of the London-and-India-based design studio Superflux, which she runs in partnership with Jon Ardern. An additional

presentation will be held at the Museum of Contemporary Art on November 14 at 6pm.

Friends with Pens7-8:30pm. YDL- Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org FreeBring your writing projects and join in for discussions in a sup-portive group setting.

15 saturdayBarton Nature Area Stew-ardship Workday9am-noon. Barton Nature Area, Barton Dam Parking lot. 734-794-6627. a2gov.org/NAP Learn about native plants and help collect native plant seeds in the area. Learn to identify na-tive plants in the seed-bearing stage. Meet at the Barton Dam parking lot.

Recycling Plant (MRF) Open House: America Recycles Day10am-noon. Ann Arbor’s Material Recovery Facility, 339 E. Liberty St. 734-663-9474. ecocenter.org/educa-tion/mrf-open-house. FreeCelebrate America Recycles Day by making bird feeders from recycled soda bottles. Please bring an empty soda bottle. Although this is an all-ages event, visitors under 6 are not permitted on the floor when the plant is in operation. Groups of 5+ must pre-register.

Fall Fashion Review11am-4pm. Downtown Home and Gar-den, 210 S. Ashley St. 734-662-8122. downtownhomeandgarden.com FreeRepresentatives from Carhartt, Filson, Stormy Kromer and Broner Hats will be showing off their new Fall 2014 items. Also stop by for a taste of Mark’s Famous Fleetwood Chili.

The Awesome Air Plants2-4pm. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu FreeA presentation on the largest and most evolved bromeliad family, Tillandsias (air plants). Learn how they survive without roots and in extreme conditions from the desert to the cloud forest.

roadtrip

Get down to MotownThrough November 16 /Fisher TheaterExperience Broadway and the magic of Motown in the Motor City itself. In the early 60s, Berry Gordy established Motown Records, which eventually boasted signees such as Marvin Gaye, Temptations, Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, and Diana Ross. With an unrivaled lineup of artists, producers, and songwriters, Gordy propelled Motown Records to the top of the entertainment industry. “Motown The Musi-cal” showcases “the sound of young America” and highlights Gordy and the talents of Motown. The musical runs Tuesday-Saturday at 8pm; Sundays at 7:30pm; weekend matinees at 2pm. Ends November 16. Tickets range from $66-$259. Fisher Theater, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit. 313-872-1000. —MRF

19 wednesdayMeteorology and Birding7:30-9pm. Matthaei Botanical Gar-dens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu FreeDiscuss how to use weather data for the best success in birding.

Science Café: Science, Fear and Public Health Policy: Ebola5:30-7:30pm. Conor O’Neill’s Traditional Irish Pub, 318 S. Main St. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.eduExplore the science, fear, and realities of the Ebola epidemic and what efforts are being put into play to help. Hors d’oeuvres will be served at 5:30pm and program to follow.

20 thursday“Beyond the Senses: The Magical, the Mystical, and the Numinous in Museums”7-8pm. UM Museum of Art (audito-rium), 525 South State St. 734-936-6678. ummsp.rackham.umich.edu FreeThis presentation will explore the experiences of museum visitors beyond the traditional five senses and focus on the spiritual or emotional encoun-ters one may have in the presence of a museum object; a state of mind beyond the senses.

22 saturdayAmaryllis Potting Day with Tom Kraft10am-1pm. Downtown Home and Garden, 210 S. Ashley St. 734-662-8122. downtownhomeandgarden.com FreeSit in on this event for tips and tricks to potting Amaryllis, stories and fun.

28 fridaySwing Dance Party8pm. $5/general admission, $4/stu-dents with ID, $1 off for members. The Phoenix Center, 220 S. Main St. 734-417-9857. aactmad.orgDances include the Lin-dy Hop, East Coast Swing, Charleston, Blues and the Balboa. Free beginner lessons will be held from 8-9pm with the open dance to follow.

29 saturdayThe Cowboy Astronomer3:30-4:15pm. Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu Learn about both stars, plan-ets and other objects in our night sky, as well as, objects beyond out solar system.

CONTINUED FROM P.36


2 sundayMastering Meditation3-5pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net FreeAn introductory meditation class with topics including concentration, relaxation, breathing, meditation on the heart, role of music and mantras and meditation in daily life.

3 mondayHerb Study Group7-9pm. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu FreeAll are invited to these meet-ings about herb use and history. Also gain recipes, herbal samples, refresh-ments and more.

6 thursdayReduce Stress and Anxiety and Remove Creative Blocks with Hypnotherapy6:45-8:45pm. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tearoom, 114. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net FreeAn introduction to how hypnotherapy works and how it can be used to reduce stress, anxiety and remove creative blocks.

10 mondayKeep Calm and Kegel On7-8:30pm. Downtown Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeExperts will discuss new research and treatments for Pelvic Floor Disorder, a problem as women get older that is considered “normal.” The disorder often keeps women from social activities and exercise out of fear of embarrassment.

13 thursdayMoving Through Moods with Improv7-8:30pm. $20. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tearoom, 114 S. Main St.734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net It can be tough to switch moods when stuck in

slumps of sadness, anger and fear. Improv comedy exercises will be used to help create a path through these moods.

16 sundayGrief Matters for the Holidays2-4pm. Malletts Creek Library, 3090 E. Eisenhower Parkway. 734-327-4555. aadl.org FreeFor people grieving the holidays can be an especially rough time. Join in for this workshop to learn helpful tips for coping with the upcoming holidays.

18 tuesdayThe Doctor’s Opinion on Alcoholism7:30-9pm. St. Joseph Mercy Hospi-tal Education Center Auditor, 5305 Elliott Drive, Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725. dawnfarm.org FreeThe Education Series is designed to help people with alcoholism or other drug ad-dictions to achieve, maintain and strengthen their recov-ery; assist family members and friends to understand and support recovery in people they care about.

OngOing MondaysBlood pressure check10:30-11:30am. Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave., Ann Arbor. 734-794-6250. a2gov.org FreeDo you know your numbers? A member of Interim Health Care will be at the Center to take your blood pressure. Free service offered to all seniors the third Monday of every month.

Candlelight Yoga7:45-8:45 pm. $10. Peachy Fitness, 2385 S. Huron Pkwy., Ann Arbor. 734-681-0477. peachyfitness.comA luminous Yin Yoga ses-sion. Great for relaxation, meditation and getting ready for a deep peaceful sleep. Through December 20.

Turkey TrotNovember 8 /Hudson Mills MetroparkBetween the cold weather and comfort food, the holi-days are one of the hardest times of the year to stay fit. But for those wanting to enjoy a “guilt free” Thanks-giving feast, starting with the ninth annual Turkey Trot might help. On November 8 at Dexter‘s Hudson Mills Metropark, the trot will kick off with a 5K race at 9am, followed by a 10K race at 10 am. For younger trotters, a one-mile kids fun run begins at 11 am, and for expe-rienced Iron Turkey trotters, participants will begin the 5K at 9 am and continue in the 10K. $30 for 5k and 10k; $15 for kid’s mile. Hudson Mills Metropark, 8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter. a2turkeytrot.com—MRF

DailyMHealthy’s Fall Exercise and Relaxation Classes Ann Arbor. 734-647-7888. hr.umich.edu/mhealthy/programs/activity/classes/MHealthy offers more than 120 classes ranging from step on aerobics and body sculpting to Pilates, spinning, yoga, Zumba, and everything in between! Visit the website to pick the best class for you.


ecurrent.com

health

2030 COMMERCE BLVDANN ARBOR, MI 48103734.216.4006A2YOGA.NET

AS SEEN ON

*45+ WEEKLY CLASSES OF YOGA & NIA FOR ALL LEVELS*5 weekly FREE donation based classes 100% of donations support local non-profits

NEW STUDENTS: RECEIVE7 DAY TRIAL PASS FOR $15!

Living the Light Within!

health events

Photo courtesy of C

hampions for C

harity

GETLIFTEDwww.ECURRENT.comwww.ECURRENT.comwww.ECURRENT.com


crosswordORANGE IS THE NEW BLACKAcross1. Machu Picchu native5. Chevy full-sized sedan11. Big name in cosmetics14. Chicken’s home15. May baby, usually16. First Steely Dan album to win a Grammy17. Aquarium denizen with blue and yellow stripes19. 1.5 miles on the Chicagoland Speed-way, e.g.20. Playfully innocent21. Here, in Hérault22. Straight24. Place to get a shot26. “We R Who We R” singer27. Yellow-colored Easter treat28. Cartoonist Feiffer30. “Frozen” character who sings “Let It Go”33. Twelve months in Madrid35. Pot component37. Gulf of Naples resort island40. Lt.’s underling41. Woodwind instruments with 24 keys42. Group of Apaches?44. ___-Caps (movie treat)45. Court sentence?46. Reality star Jenni Farley’s stage name48. Sharpen, as a knife52. “Free ___” (common protest sign)54. Towing fee56. Keister58. Some dashes59. “___ Sequitur” (comic strip)60. Clearasil rival61. You can’t compare them65. Page of Google, e.g.66. Really despicable67. “Night” writer Wiesel68. “I’ll tell you anything”69. Letterman trademark70. Exchanges rings, say

Down1. Polar formation2. “That’s it!”3. “You understand what I’m saying?”4. Chest-beating creature5. Stephen King classic6. California beachfront city7. Buf-___ (facial sponge)8. Shapiro of NPR9. Most luxurious10. Camel droppings?11. Guy who’s high when singing12. Not quite closed13. Guitarist’s prop18. Jeans flaw or feature23. College football game played in Florida25. Classic frozen dessert26. Game played in convenience stores29. ___-ovo vegetarian31. Word for a miss32. Appliances taken out of windows around now, briefly34. Clean sheet score in soccer36. Big, big stretch of time

37. Souvenir shop purchase38. Feel under the weather39. Better than not bad but not great40. Salamander in witches’ brew43. Por ___ (for example, in Spanish)44. Pawnee director of parks and recreation Ron47. Breathe with difficulty49. Online login

50. Psychology 101 topic51. Language class lesson53. Humblebrag, really55. 2014 FIBA World Cup winners56. Meatless burger brand57. Big and clumsy types62. Energy63. CrossFitter’s back muscle64. Recently out fo

r cro

ssw

ord

a

nsw

ers

, g

o t

o

ecu

rren

t.com

©2014By Brendan Em

mett Q

uigley (www.brendanemmettquigley.com

)1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16

17 18 19

20 21 22 23

24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31 32

33 34 35 36

37 38 39 40 41

42 43 44

45 46 47 48 49 50 51

52 53 54 55

56 57 58 59

60 61 62 63 64

65 66 67

68 69 70


classifieds

------------------------------------- ServiceS

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

MaSSage: Walk-in appointments available. Free parking. Make some time for yourself! Come in stressed leave refreshed. RelaxStation. 734-623-1951 -------------------------------------eve & Mother earthS organization’s mission is to recycle. Join us in the celebration! Erase carbon footprints. Visit eveandme.org -------------------------------------

PaYMeNtPayment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders, and credit cards (MasterCard, Ameri-can Express, or Visa) Sorry, no refunds. Misprint results in credit toward next ad.

Free cLaSSiFieD aDSOne (1) free 20-word classified ad per issue. Free ads include noncommercial concerns, free services, products being sold for less than $150.Line classifieds$20 for 20 words or less. 40¢ per each additional word.Box classifieds$25 per column inch. One column = 1.4519"Photos can be placed in box or line ads for an additional $5 per photo.

DeaDLiNeSAd copy must be received at NooN on the 15th of the month prior to publication.

coNtact iNForMatioNMail: Current Classifieds. 1120 Adams Street, Toledo, Ohio 43604.Phone: 419-244-9859. Fax: 419-244-9871. Email to: [email protected]

heLP WaNteD-------------------------------------We’re LookiNg For a FreeLaNce Writer aND a FreeLaNce PhotograPher. Paid gigs for Current & Ann Arbor Family magazines. E-mail us at [email protected] MaSSage theraPiSt: Currently hiring therapists to work at RelaxStation in downtown Ann Arbor. Free parking, flexible hours, great team! 734-623-1951------------------------------------- give hoPe. BecoMe a FoSter PareNt. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272. -----------------------------------

eDUcatioN-------------------------------------high SchooL DiPLoMa FroM hoMe. 6 - 8 weeks. ACCREDITED. Get a Diploma. Get a Job! No computer needed. Free brochure 1-800-264-8330 Benjamin Franklin HS www.diplomafromhome.com ------------------------------------- are YoUr chiLDreN iNtereSteD iN aStroNoMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO: www.youngastronomer.org------------------------------------

eveNtS------------------------------------

StargaziNg Peach Mountain Observatory Ann Arbor October 18 & 25 Directions: http://www.umich.edu/~lowbrows/calendar/regular.html Observatory Opens at Sunset, Free admission and parking-------------------------------------

For SaLe------------------------------------- taNtric Six hoW to have FaNtaStic Six $1.99 e-book at Amazon.com by Bartholomew Bronson

to se

ll yo

ur st

uff t

oday

call

RACH

ELLY

N

at 41

9.244

.9859

Ann Arbor’sNewest Pet-centric

Newsletter!

Enjoy interesting articles about pets, trivia, comics, a monthly poll and more!

[email protected]

Subscribe to this free monthly newsletter at:

pet-n-play.com/newsletter-1

221 E Washington St Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Blue NileThe

Experience the elegance of a traditional Ethiopian feast

734-998-4746www.bluenilemi.com

Authentic EthiopianCuisineVegetarian & Vegan Options AvailableCatering Menus & Facilities Available

•

•

•

Call today to make your Valentine’s Day reservation.

Reader’s Choice Winner for over 10 years!

Discount for meal only, beverages not included.One coupon per person. Exp. 11/30/14

Excludes all national holidays, including Thanksgiving

,,

SHOP AND DONATE TODAY!

SUPPORT AAPS and its students! Participate in a GREEN community effort to fund student enrichment at Ann Arbor Public Schools since 1993.

25% OffStudent Discount

Every SaturdayWith Valid ID

All School LevelsFrom “K” through College

SHOP: Mon-Fri 9am-7pm | Sat 9am-6pm | Sunday 11am-5pmDONATE: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm | Sat 10am-5pm | Sunday 12pm-4pmFIND US: 2280 S. Industrial Hwy | 734.996.9155 | a2ptothriftshop.org

www.a2ptothriftshop.org

Outfit your kids this school yearFor less $$$

...And Support AAPS!

NEW INVENTORY

BIG IN-SHOPSPECIALS

We have lots of

to move! Look for

e a c h w e e k !

votedBest Thrift

Store!

votedBest Thrift

Store!

current november 2014

Documents

open real baked goods

literati bookstore partners

zingermans coffee bar

homemade baked goods

new location

espresso barespresso

new year

krazy jims blimpy burgerthe