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Mrs. Claus Retires • The Cure for What Ales You • Holiday-Break Watchlist Mega-Million Christmas Tree Farm • Big-Win Bubblies • The New New Year’s Eve NORTHERN MICHIGAN’S WEEKLY • special double issue • dec 21 - jan 03, 2021 • Vol. 30 No. 50 & 51 Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 1

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letters Pay Attention, 1st District Just a heads up for my fellow 1st District voters. Our “representative” Jack Bergman, along with three other Michigan “representatives,” sided with the attorney general of Texas. That’s right; they wanted to nullify all of our votes and declare Trump the winner in our state, along with three other states. Sure glad he has our back. In 2022, remember the backstabbing we all got from our “representative.” Jeff Ackerman, Kingsley Engaged & Delighted I’m just catching up on last month’s Northern Express issues and found Amy Kerr Hardin’s opinion piece, “Are You A Fascist?” I had read one or two very offended letters to the editor on Hardin’s opinion piece, and they actually blamed Northern Express for offending them with Hardin’s opinion piece. Get it? Opinion? So I read with an eye trained for offense. All I saw were documented facts followed by Hardin’s exquisite humor. Northern Express is not advocating this quiz as fact. Hardin made me laugh, and I saw no offense, except if one found some of one’s beliefs in the lazy fascist category. Thank you, Northern Express, for continuing to engage and delight me. Freedom of the press. Get it? Judy Childs, Traverse City Delusional Who? In response to Wayne Patrica’s letter in the Dec. 7 issue: So you want to talk delusional? We have a president who refuses to accept that he lost the election, claiming massive voter fraud with absolutely no evidence. Not merely refusing to concede, he launches dozens of lawsuits in an attempt to overturn real election results in several states, especially targeting precincts with predominantly Black voters. Despite the fact that one after another of these suits is thrown out of court for lack of merit, he refuses to allow the actual, democratically elected president-elect to access the White House transition team, thereby putting the security of our nation at risk. While Trump’s frivolous lawsuits go on, we have had 18 attorneys general and 128 Republican representatives — including our very own “representative” Jack Bergman — attempting to disqualify Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Georgia’s results because of the way these states administer their elections. We have seventy million Americans who support a president who first claims COVID19 is a hoax, then goes on to politicize a global health emergency; who doesn’t “believe” in global warming or science; who lies every time he opens his mouth; who is a billionaire yet pays less in taxes than my brother-in-law, who lives on eight hundred dollars a month. On top of all this, I guess these Trump voters are just fine with his blatant attempt at a coup to overthrow democracy as we know it. Now, tell me again: Who do you think is deluded? Kimberlee Pearson, Traverse City Clean Water Constitution In regard to Rev. Deb Hansen of Levering [Letters, Dec. 14 issue]: Is not our water protected under the Constitution? “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all are ... endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” If this is what we hold dear, why would we need a bill/law for clean, safe water? If the latter

is true, then anyone who does not keep water clean, are they not being unconstitutional? The necessity of life is food, water, and shelter, is it not? Paul Tremonti, Traverse City Yank the Signs I am sick and tired of still seeing many Trump political signs still up. All political signs are supposed to be taken down within 10 days following the election. Your guy lost. Get over it and move on. Life will be better without him creating constant chaos. Trust me. Chloe McGehee, Beulah An Illuminating Idea As winter has finally descended upon us, we are once again menaced by the inevitable throng of brain-dead morons who absentmindedly go about maneuvering their multi-ton SUVs and trucks, sans headlights, in low visibility snowy conditions. People! Who taught you to drive? Wake up and help your fellow motorists see you coming! You might think you’re able to see where you’re going adequately enough, but what if others can’t see you? Do you want them to pull out in front of you on icy roads because they can’t distinguish your white SUV from the blinding snow coming down? Think of others’ safety too, as well as your own. If you see an oncoming vehicle flash their brights or turn their headlights off and on again in rapid succession, this usually means turn your headlights on! Don’t get mad at them simply because they want to help you to protect others on the road. After all, how would you feel if one of your loved ones accidentally pulled out in front of another vehicle that didn’t have its lights on in hazardous, low-visibility conditions. Think of the possible consequences. Not a pretty thought. If it’s dusk, or raining, or snowing, or foggy, don’t be a brain-dead moron — turn your lights on! Michael Dost, Traverse City Carbon Bill Will Pay Dividends I was pleased to see that Northern Express made room to talk about climate change solutions (Cathye Williams’s Dec. 12 opinion column, “A Year of Possibility). This year, four carbon pricing bills have been introduced with bipartisan sponsorship. Among them, the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (bill H.R. 763) has attracted the most support. It is about putting a price on polluting carbon emissions by coal, oil, and gas producers, as well as import products that are responsible for greenhouse gases. These greenhouse gases are harmful to our health and are causing rising global temperatures and the catastrophic weather changes that occur more frequently each year. The burning of fossil fuels needs to be turned around within the next few years to avoid more catastrophic changes. Putting a price on carbon emissions will encourage innovations and a move to clean energy while adding millions of jobs. Included in this legislation is a benefit to every American household — a monthly dividend paid directly out of the revenue collected from the carbon fee. Therefor, HR 763 benefits our economy, health, environment, and our nation’s energy security. A win-win for the country and the world.

So what can you do? Write/email/call your representatives: Jack Bergman, Debbie Stabenow, and Gary Peters, and ask for their support of The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, to begin reversing the effects of climate change. Berta Meserve, Lake Ann “We Are All Americans Here” Our nation is more divided now by acrimonious partisanship and the presidential transition process than I can recall in my 85 years. I am very saddened and alarmed by it. I recently read, in Christopher Flannery’s “Mystic Chords of Memory: Learning from the American Story,” a scene that took place at the Appomattox Court House when Confederate General Lee surrendered to Union General Grant. After working out the terms of surrender, Grant handed the draft to his adjutant to write out in ink. The adjutant was so nervous, he continued to make mistakes, so Grant gave the job to another officer of his staff, Ely Parker, a Seneca Indian. When Lee saw Parker was an Indian, he said, “I am glad to see one real American here.” Shaking Lee’s hand, Parker replied, “We are all Americans here.” Perhaps if we can all remember that we are all Americans, we can begin to heal the great rift that is tearing our nation apart and together address the serious problems threatening the goals of our Constitution: promote the general welfare, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, and secure the blessings of liberty.

CONTENTS features Oh, Christmas Tree......................................10

The Cure for What Ales You............................14 The Retirement of Mrs. Claus......................17 Have Yourself a Small-Screen Christmas.......20 The New New Year’s Eve..............................23 Spin It.........................................................27

columns & stuff

Top Ten.......................................................5 Spectator/Stephen Tuttle...............................6 High Notes (sponsored)..................................7 Opinion..........................................................8 Weird............................................................9 13 Questions (sponsored)............................13 Dates........................................................24 Advice.....................................................28 Crossword.................................................29 Astrology.....................................................29 Classifieds...............................................30

William Holland, Elk Rapids Deception? “And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.” (Revelation 12:9) Apparently, some of Satan’s angels write for Northern Express. Let’s start with your Nov. 23rd issue containing Amy Kerr Hardin’s opinion piece, “Are You A Fascist?” Let me now prove that all of you that agree with her are communists. Here are the 10 planks of the Communist Manifesto: 1) Abolition of private property. 2) Heavy progressive income tax. 3) Abolition of all rights of inheritance. 4) Confiscation of property of all emigrants and rebels. 5) Central bank. 6) Government control of communications and transportation. 7) Government ownership of factories and agriculture. 8) Government control of labor. 9) Corporate farms, regional planning. 10) Government control of education. Your most deceptive issue was unleashed on Dec. 7. “But ye are forgers of lies, ye are all physicians of no value.” (Job 13:4) The cover says it all, a picture of a masked nurse with a heart-wrenching tear falling from her eye, quoting “We’ve worked so hard … but we’re not going to save their lives.” The nurse that supposedly said that statement is one of the two anonymous COVID nurses that sure use your or their voices to attack Trump and the COVID naysayers. The nurse from the health department’s main job was administering vaccinations before COVID. I think job security has something to do with her opinions. The Women’s Clinic nurse said, “It is scientifically proven that masks work.” Prove it, because I’m not buying it, like all of you have been bought. Gordon Lee Dean, Benzonia Letters continues on page 6

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

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Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 3

this week’s

top ten GOODWILL GETS SURPRISE $5 MILLION

Goodwill Northern Michigan got an unexpected gift of $5 million, one of 384 organizations across the country to receive generous donations out of the blue. The donations came from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, former wife of Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos. Over four months, Scott has given away $4.2 billion. Scott said that she used a rigorous “datadriven approach to identifying organizations with strong leadership teams and results” to select which groups would receive the donations. “This gift is a great opportunity for northern Michigan, and a great responsibility for our organization,” said Dan Buron, Goodwill executive director. “Combined with the support we receive from our family of donors, we are in a position to play an enhanced regional role in fulfilling our mission to reduce food insecurity and make homelessness a rare, brief, and one-time experience.” Goodwill’s programs include Food Rescue, the Goodwill Inn, Street Outreach, Patriot Place, and Good Meals.

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Go Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland A gang of giving elves (OK, community volunteers) have transformed the lawn of The Old Art Building into an illuminating winter wonderland. Free and open to the public, the strollable show showcases more than two dozen trees decorated by community members, including a dozen local artists who each interpreted one of the “12 Days of Christmas.” Bundle up and head out to 111 S. Main St., in Leland.

Hey, watch it! On Pointe

Make up for missing your annual trek to see The Nutcracker with the inspiring six-part docuseries On Pointe on Disney+. Taking you inside the prestigious School of American Ballet, you’ll follow the world-class students, ranging from age 8 to 18, as they prepare for the New York City Ballet’s renowned annual production of George Balanchine’s "The Nutcracker" at Lincoln Center. From the producing team of Ron Howard and Brian Grazer, the show places you at center stage as you experience the cutthroat competition and sublime feats of expression from these talented artist-athletes who are stepping into the spotlight and chasing their dreams.

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Amid the ever-changing restaurant environment of 2020, the Wineguys Restaurant Group (owners of City Park Grill, Palette Bistro, and Roast & Toast in Petoskey, Michigan) last week launched a new delivery-only venture focused on Chinese-centric cuisine. (“Lu Bian” is a Mandarin Chinese word meaning curb or roadside.) One mouthwatering must-try: General Tso’s Chicken ($14.95), Executive Chef John Norman’s twist on traditional sweet and sour chicken, accompanied by vegetable fried rice and, of course, chopsticks and a fortune cookie. Like all on Lu Bian’s menu, the dish will only be available for curbside delivery at City Park Grill, 432 E. Lake St. Check out the entire menu and order at lu-bian.square.site or call (231) 347-0101.

4 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

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Traverse City’s Little Connection To The Biden Administration

Former presidential candidate and part-time Traverse City resident Pete Buttigieg has been named United States Secretary of Transportation by President-elect Biden. Buttigieg, perhaps best known as the mayor of South Bend, Indiana, exceeded expectations as a come-from-nowhere presidential candidate for the Democratic Party. Though he ultimately dropped out of the race, he became a vocal supporter of Biden’s run, and speculation about a high-level appointment for the 38-year-old has been rampant since. Not long after withdrawing, Buttigieg and his husband, Chasten Buttigieg, bought a home in Traverse City, where Chasten was raised. In an Aug. 29 interview with Northern Express, Chasten said the home won’t be their primary residence but a place to retreat to and relax: “I have family here, and Peter has fallen in love with northern Michigan. We found a lake house. It will be our vacation spot.” In reaction to the appointment, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said, “This is great news for our families, our businesses, and our nation’s economy. Every American deserves to drive to work and drop their kids at school safely, without blowing a tire or cracking a windshield. Mayor Buttigieg has shown a deep commitment to getting things done for Americans everywhere, and I know he will work around the clock to fix and protect our nation’s infrastructure.”

Stuff we love

World’s Easiest Last-minute Christmas Gift: A Northern Express Subscription For your housebound high-risk pal, grandma in nursing home lockdown, or homesick best friend, we’ve got a great gift idea to keep them in touch with what’s happening in northwest Lower Michigan: a subscription to Northern Express, delivered each week to their door. The price? $110 per year — $104 of which covers postage! Interested? Order up at www.northernexpress.com/subscriptions/order/

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE NORTHERN MICHIGAN’S WEEKLY • november 23 - november 29, 2020 • Vol. 30 No. 46

McLaren Doc Brings New COVID-19 Treatment to NoMi McLaren Northern Michigan has made a big leap in the fight against COVID-19. It’s the first in the region to offer COVID-19 treatments to outpatients using two new antibody infusions, Bamlanivimab and casirivimab + imdevimab. Both are synthesized from naturally occurring antibodies found in patients recovering from COVID-19, but the difference is that the antibodies aren’t directly taken from human plasma — a method that improves safety and expands options for those who decline human blood product. (Early research has shown antibody treatments can reduce the chances of hospitalization in high-risk populations by up to 70 percent.) Big ups to Dr. Jon Sangeorzen, the infectious disease physician at McLaren Northern Michigan who was instrumental in bringing these therapies to northern Michigan. He said both show enough promise that their use can begin helping people now. “Our hope is that this treatment will shorten the course of illness, decrease need for hospitalization, and save lives,” he said. One caveat: The treatment is only approved for use in patients who are at high risk for serious complications because of their age or other conditions. It must also be used within the first days of illness, before more severe symptoms occur. For more information, and if you are a candidate, McLaren recommends talking to your primary care provider or visiting www.mclaren.org/northerncare for a list of providers near you.

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bottoms up Leelanau’s Double Bubble (& Double Gold!) Winners If you and your New Year’s Eve kiss recipient plan to toast 2021 with a bit of the bubbly, might we suggest selecting from two big-winning bottles from our own Leelanau Peninsula? Bel Lago Winery’s Auxerrois Brut 2019 and Black Star Farms’ 2018 Sparkling Riesling both won Double Gold, with 93/100 points awarded to each, at the recent American Wine Society Commercial Wine Competition. The Auxerrois ($22) — pronounced “ah-sir-waa,” please, mademoiselle — is a complex and creamy brut, aromatic and expressive in both fruit and spices, with notes of star fruit, figs, gooseberry, apple, and cloves. (One sip, and you won’t wonder that it also nabbed Best of Class kudos for Best Sparkling Wine.) Black Star’s Sparkling Riesling ($18), originally developed as a special release for wine club members, is only the second vintage the winery has made exclusively from Riesling grapes grown on the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas, and they’ve clearly nailed it. Bright and unexpectedly, delicately sweet, with notes of pear and green apples, this crisp and exceptionally dry sparkling wine, well … truly sparkles. Pick up both wines from their respective tasting rooms or order (and find local retailers) online: bellago.com, store.blackstarfarms.com

Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 5

letters Continued from page 3

A Letter to Congressman Bergman Three years ago, we met to talk about healthcare. It was a respectful and productive discussion. Afterward, I asked you to speak out against Trump’s divisive behavior, to show your concern about his assaults on the norms that our society has built. You said you wouldn’t speak publicly, but you had your “ways of dealing with this.” Since then, it’s been obvious that your way of dealing with Trump is to enlist in his war against our institutions. The Amicus brief in Texas v. Pennsylvania that you signed is perhaps one of the last nails in the coffin of our republic. You’re saying that the baseless allegations about the credibility of the election made by the Trump team are more important, have more credibility, than the 50 post-election lawsuits that have been lost, more credible than the dedicated officials, many of them Republican, that have patiently explained why the elections are secure. In effect. you’ve said you’ll unconditionally support Trump in his drive to undermine our electoral process, that you’ll support his fomenting of civil unrest, such as his call to “LIBERATE MICHIGAN!” that emboldened the men charged with conspiring to kidnap and assassinate Governor Whitmer. It’s small comfort that the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear the Texas case, because Trump, the Republican Party, and you personally, are clearly bent on pursuing this course of action to the bitter end. It’s clear that Trump will not relent. It’s clear that our country is under greater threat

THE OTHER 2020 than at any time since 1861. And it’s becoming clear that you will continue to support him, no matter what. If you’re as concerned as I am about the future of the Republic, I again ask that you not feed the flames of division any further. John DeSpelder, Traverse City We Should Be Angry When the news today lamented that more Americans have died from COVID (300,000) than died in WWII, I got angry. When healthcare workers share stories of overloaded hospitals, 20-hour workdays, losing colleagues to this deadly virus, patients clawing for breath, dying alone, I get angry. When I see schools and businesses closed, 2- to 4-hour food lines, and unemployment claims skyrocketing, I get angry. I get even angrier when I see large groups of maskless people crowded together, maskless political “leaders” flouting the advice of medical doctors, people complaining about their loss of freedom, a closed economy … on and on. Those who complain the most are the very ones responsible for the enormity of these problems. We could have had far fewer deaths. Our economy could have remained mostly open if everyone had done their part: served their nation and other Americans. I’m mad at this deadly virus, but I’m even angrier at the Americans who have made these things as bad as they are. Those who refused, and still refuse, to serve their country in a very simple way — masks and distance. Kate Dahlstrom, Traverse City

spectator by Stephen Tuttle Well, that was an interesting year. And there was more to it than a pandemic we didn't stop and a delusional soon-to-be ex-president who won't accept reality. In fact, 2020 was a pretty eventful year, good and bad, without the election or pandemic. We didn't much slow down wars. Currently, there are at least 40 such armed conflicts around the world, from South America to Chechnya and plenty of places in between. The death toll, including thousands in the still-raging drug cartel wars in Mexico, approached 100,000 again this year, mostly civilians. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), some 80 million people are now refugees, asylum-seekers, or people internally displaced due to various wars. In Syria alone,

We're still actively engaged in combat operations of one form or another in Iraq, Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan. We have 160,000 troops deployed outside the U.S. in 150 countries, ranging from a handful in South America and Africa to tens of thousands in South Korea, Japan, and Germany. We were once again the largest arms dealer on the planet, making sure nearly all the biggest conflicts were bristling with U.S.-made weaponry. We generated at least $120 billion in arms sales, and that doesn't count the recent $23–$30 billion sale of F-35 Raptors to the United Arab Emirates. It wasn't such a good year for nature, either, and climate change is the likely culprit.

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The U.S. saw more than 53,000 wildfires, mostly in the West, which burned 9.5 million acres — twice the 2019 total — and destroyed nearly 14,000 structures, with a cost somewhere between $120 and $150 billion. More tragically, 46 people lost their lives in the fires. Unusually heavy rains produced rich thickets of brush, which quickly turned to tinder during excessive heat and flash droughts. Climatologists tell us this is likely to be the new normal, along with heavy rain events, flooding in the Southeast, and perhaps, more recordbreaking hurricane seasons. Another 31 plant and animal species were declared officially extinct, though none had been seen for decades. Human encroachment and loss of habitat are the main causes of endangering plant and animal species of all sizes; for example, fully

6 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

But 2020 wasn't all bad news. The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco have agreed to recognize and begin diplomatic and trade relations with Israel in deals brokered by the U.S. They join Jordan and Egypt as Middle East countries that are willing to acknowledge the reality of Israel. The recent recognition of three relatively minor players in the region won't do much to end the endless conflicts, but any positive step is a good one. There was some good news in the plant and animal kingdoms, too.

We were once again the largest arms dealer on the planet, making sure nearly all the biggest conflicts were bristling with U.S.-made weaponry. 3 million people have sought refuge in other countries, and another 6.5 million have been displaced internally.

BRIGHT & CHEERFUL HOLIDAY GIFTS

one-third of all oak trees on the planet are now at risk due to logging and agriculture. But it isn't always human intervention causing the problem; a bacterial disease is now putting at risk 22 different species of Central American tree frogs.

Some 400 new species were discovered, mostly plants and insects we just didn't bother to previously examine. This year's list includes 22 new spiders and an especially unpleasant venomous millipede. Much more exciting was the discovery of a new species of orangutan on an island off Sumatra in Indonesia. A bit smaller than their more common cousins, they've been living in blissful isolation until now. (By “discovery,” we mean they were found by white scientists. Indigenous people have known about the new orangutan for as long as they've been in the area.) We also rediscovered the legendary New Guinea singing dogs, thought to be extinct for 50 years. They were actually located initially in 2016, but science has just gotten around to confirming genetically they are, in fact, the same animal thought to be gone. (They're called “singing” because when they howl, they sound as if they're harmonizing.) But the grand prize for discoveries has to be the most recent. A group of marine biologists, studying underwater acoustic patterns, have found what they believe to be a new species of whale. They ran into them about 300 miles off the west coast of Mexico and were able to collect both photos and DNA samples. Test results will determine if this is truly a new species or just an already known variety that has adapted a unique way of communicating. It wasn't a bad year for medicine, either. Progress was made on treatments for Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell disease. No cures, yet, but we're moving closer. Every year brings good and bad news. 2020 was tilted to the negative because of two overwhelming events. Hopefully, 2021 will put an end to both of them.

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Caregiver David Naniot of Comfort Keepers. Traverse City & Petoskey.

A Job With Unexpected Joy, With David Naniot He became a caregiver just five years ago, helping neighbors with errands, cleaning, and companionship. Joining Comfort Keepers has changed his world; it’s the best career move he’s ever made.

1 > Why this field of caregiving? It’s so rewarding and there is such a tremendous need for it. Your parents gave you the first 18 years and got you in right direction, now you can repay the favor and give them the same. Be a light when their light is going out. For me that’s poignant — I lost both of both of my parents prematurely. 2 > Tell me about a special client? ‘Bud’ — one of my oldest clients at 103. I asked him, “What’s your secret?” For one, he never watched TV. He wanted real life. Once, he was on the edge of his bed, and because his circulation was not there, I sat down next to him and put some covers on him. And he — figuring I must be cold, too — took part of the covers and put his arm around me. It was such a genuine, pure move. 3 > How do you bring joy? One of my rehabilitation clients has a spinal cord injury. He wants to walk again; I 100 percent believe he will. I work with him three times a week on his range of motion. I ask how he is, and he says, “pretty good, Bill Murray,” referencing the movie Groundhog Day, because every day feels the same. I cleared it ahead of time with his wife to have my stepdaughter meet me there with two of our Havanese puppies. It was a terrific moment. 4 > Some of your Comfort Keepers clients receive 24-hour care. With others, you’re tapping in for the family. Yes, some of our clients only ask for two hours a day. Some need cleaning and a little companionship, or personal care, or to have someone do the shopping and errands. Some I take to doctor appointments or am there as an extra set of hands. For one client, her husband has Alzheimer's setting in. When I come, her husband my main priority, and I help out while she runs errands. Sometimes she will linger, and I say, “It’s time for you to go now. I got this. Your husband is my buddy, and this is your break.”

5 > So those small windows are good for their relationship? I think that it really maintains some of the good moments, maintains the joy. 6 > Didn’t meeting the owners and staff seal the deal? There at several nurses on staff at Comfort Keepers, and training takes place at our home office in Petoskey or in TC. We learn safe lifting techniques, how to do personal care properly. They definitely give quality training in all medical aspects and can customize a client’s care plan with you. And then Care Academy — online training — which is 50 hours we take in first few months of employment to get certified. 7 > Work words to live by? I do have a battle cry! 1) Nobody falls on my shift. Falls are such a huge thing for an elderly person, if they have fallen, it can become a fear that they can over-focus on. 2) We hold onto what we’ve got and maintain as much as possible. 3) If we can recover what was lost to be called into this scenario, we will. 8 > How are you helping people with isolation? Bring puppies whenever possible. [Laughs]. Once I know clients are safe physically and mentally, I try to give them some hope or offer a listening ear. There is one gentleman, I know I’m really there to watch news and talk. A phrase struck me as a teenager — I had it on my bulletin board in the 80s: Every time an older person dies, it’s like a small library burning down. That is the truth, with all the experiences, jobs, states, neighbors, elations and setbacks I talk with them about. 9 > Are you able to get out and about in the community, too? Right now, we’ve got to do it creatively, but we might go get a coffee at Bud’s Interlochen, or just head to a different setting, like the fish hatchery between Interlochen and Honor.

10 > I’m curious what life experience and jobs led you to this, and how would someone considering this field make a similar leap? If you asked me 15 years ago if I would be doing what I am doing for a career, I would not have guessed it. I worked in restaurants and at a grocery store, owned a cleaning service, was a Tae Kwon Do instructor. Having empathy is key. There are aspects to this that are very real, depending on what level of care clients need. But, pick your favorite five people — could be family members, someone from school or work — and if something happened to them that they were in dire need, could you help them for several weeks or a length of time? Maybe you’d like to make a move from your current job. Try it part time. You may really like this, and find it rewarding, unique, interesting work. Some of my favorite people I would not have met otherwise. 11 > And likewise, a part-time scenario for someone who isn’t sure that they are ready for in-home care? It might be that right now, you still do something pretty well, but how about in 10 months or in two years? We have that established relationship, and of course we can help you more. Why wait until something puts you over the edge. 12 > It’s the holidays! What are caregivers doing to make it special, especially during COVID? One of my clients had zero Christmas decorations up — they are 90 and 92 and most of their family is in Canada. I talked them into putting out maybe 10 decorations. They agreed, and said it felt a lot better. They didn’t have to carry anything downstairs. And I assured them I will put it all away, too. 13 > I think we all would love that. [Laughs]. Yes.

Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 13

The Cure for What Ales You By Amy Martin As any seasoned Michigander knows, the time has come to brace for the mountains of snow, icy roads, and gloomy grey skies that inevitably arrive with the winter season. Fortunately, there are many options for coping: perhaps winter sports like skiing or curling, or — our personal preference, because it can be enjoyed alongside said sports — sampling high-quality local winter ales. “The Oxford Companion to Beer” states that winter ales are “not technically a beer style per se,” a caveat that allows them to be interpreted as a variety of styles. Historically, winter ales have ranged from robust, dark, high-alcohol brews to light, crisp beer with spices. Sometimes these beers would even be warmed up and served hot. But in today’s modern era, we firmly believe that any beer that helps get you through the season is a winter ale. There is a Russian proverb that says, “The church is near, but the road is icy. The pub is far away, but I will walk carefully.” If you’re looking for a pub to carefully make your way to when the road is icy, look no further than the following six breweries for these winter ales, all available for carryout now.

T-Bar IPA (4.9% ABV)

Scoop Double Milk Stout (8% ABV)

Scoop is a double milk stout brewed with Dutch cocoa and aged on cocoa nibs and vanilla beans by Five Shores Brewing in Beulah. Their goal was to create a beer that was part fermented beverage and part chocolate and vanilla ice cream, and they certainly succeeded. “The fun idea around creating Scoop for this time of year, although it’s not technically ice cream season in northern Michigan, isn't it always ice cream season?” laughs Five Shores’ co-founder and brewmaster Oliver Roberts. Roberts made Scoops with a variety of malts — a bit of roasted malt and a plethora of chocolate malt. He added lactose and Dutch cocoa late in the boil, and once fermentation was complete, moved it to a tank where it aged on cocoa nibs and vanilla beans that had been split and sliced carefully to preserve as much flavor as possible. The result? A lighter-bodied, lowto-mild roasty stout with a huge dose of chocolate in every corner of the beer. Replace your usual hot cocoa with a pint of Scoop after a long bout of shoveling snow, and you can’t go wrong.

T-Bar is an IPA brewed by The Filling Station Microbrewery in Traverse City. It’s loaded with hops such as local Magnum, Chinook, and West Coast Citra; then dryhopped with Cascade, Citra, and Simcoe. The big, late hop addition in the kettle and dry hop keep the bitterness of this session IPA low, and the citrus and pine flavor contributions high. This session IPA is bright and refreshing, a perfect beverage for a day on the slopes—which makes it a perfect collaboration beer with Mt. Holiday. The Filling Station’s General Manager Todd Klepper shares about how the collaboration came about organically: “On a personal level, it’s the place where my sisters and I, as well as our head brewer Andy Largent, learned to downhill ski. It’s also the place where quite a few of our employees hang out during the winter months, including our other brewer, Tom Hodges.” He added, “On a business and community level, we share a common goal of being a welcoming and safe place for people of all ages to come and enjoy each other’s company.” In the future, Mt. Holiday plans to offer the T-Bar IPA on tap and in cans (a new dedicated can label is in the works.) The Filling Station Microbrewery, where it's on tap now, will sell both options as well, with 50 cents from every pint sold at the brewery going to support Mt. Holiday’s continued efforts to provide four seasons of outdoor recreation for the community, especially the region’s disadvantaged youth.

14 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

Superfluid Double IPA (9.1% ABV)

Superfluid is an American double IPA brewed by Short’s Brewing Company in Bellaire. It’s brewed with Sorachi Ace, Citra, and Zeus hops, which provide a resinous aroma and initial flavors of tropical fruit, with pineapple and subtle coconut following through. The malt bill is such that the beer goes down surprisingly smooth for such a high ABV beer. The creative and marketing manager at Short’s, Christa Brenner, points out that the higher alcohol content makes it great “to warm you up on cold nights” and is “definitely meant for hunkering down and riding out a blizzard.” Our recommendation: Stock up on this brew before our next big winter storm hits.

No Pressure Imperial Stout (8% ABV)

No Pressure is an imperial stout brewed by Rare Bird Brewpub in Traverse City. It's made with local coffee importer Higher Grounds Trading Company’s Bolivian Caranavi coffee, chocolate, and a touch of vanilla. The flavor profile of these coffee beans is cocoa and hazelnut, with a mellow acidity and a round, balanced body. In the beer, the coffee stands out at the front of the palate, then gently gives way to the chocolate and vanilla notes. It has a sweet backbone that helps tie all the delicious flavors together. Head brewer Tina Schuett points out that No Pressure is “the three-time winner of the Traverse City Stout Challenge” and calls it “the perfect winter beer.” This beer has become a mainstay at Rare Bird, but it really shines in the cold, icy months. With its prominent coffee notes, No Pressure pairs particularly well with unwrapping gifts on Christmas morning.

Imperial Cinnamon Hefeweizen (7.8% ABV)

Imperial Cinnamon Hefeweizen is brewed by Cheboygan Brewing Company in Cheboygan. It’s described as a “German classic with a craft-centric twist.” Higher in gravity than other hefeweizens, it’s taken to the next level with Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans and Vietnamese cinnamon. The unique spice character is wonderfully balanced by its rich malt backbone. Cheboygan’s territory sales and marketing manager Nick Beard talks about how the cinnamon plays especially well with the “banana/clove profile you get from the hefeweizen yeast we use in this brew.” He also noted that “the vanilla smooths it out and the high ABV is perfect to warm you up.” This beer is ideal for an evening unwinding in front of the fireplace after a blustery winter day. If you want to take a page out of the brewery’s playbook, coat the rim of the glass with local honey and some Sugar in the Raw to add some sweetness to each sip.

Brimley Stout (5.5% ABV)

Brimley Stout is an oatmeal stout brewed by Beards Brewery in Petoskey. This beer has a full body and smooth, silky mouthfeel. The robust, roasty flavors make this a dream come true for dark beer lovers. Justin Koziol, Beard’s head brewer shares that “it works as a dessert beer or as a pairing for hearty winter meals like braised meats and stews.” Brimley Stout is Beards’ winter seasonal release and is available in charmingly labeled cans throughout Michigan, as well as at their pub in Petoskey. Some people put out milk and cookies for Santa, but you’ll receive much better gifts if you leave this beer.

Local ingredients, gifts, and meals that bring joy.

Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 15

16 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

The Retirement of Mrs. Claus Days before turning her toy shop’s sign to “closed” for the final time, Karen Bobay looks back on nearly a half-century of making kids’ Christmas mornings. By Ross Boissoneau ’Tis the season — albeit a bittersweet one for Karen Bobay. The entrepreneur has operated the Children’s World toy store inside downtown Traverse City’s indoor shopping Arcade for nearly a half-century. This Christmas, for a change, Santa is bringing Bobay something that’s been on her wish list: retirement. “I’ve been in the toy business since February 1973,” said the 78-year-old proprietor. And while she’s more than earned the right to close up shop and take time for herself, her decades of customers and neighboring downtown shop keepers might not be quite as ready. “I’ve had lots of people coming in to thank and congratulate me,” Bobay said. BEAR NECESSITIE What started her on this decades-long career? Something about necessity being the mother of invention. “I had a son in November [1972] and couldn’t find a brown teddy bear in Traverse City.” She also remembered her own childhood, when her grandmother would treat Bobay and her six siblings to a visit to the toy department at Hudson’s department store in downtown Detroit. “We’d stop and get hot chocolate, stroll and look in the windows. That was a great day.” Thus inspired, Bobay started her own enterprise to bring the kinds of toys she had loved to the youngsters of Traverse City and beyond. In addition to teddy bears (traditional brown included, of course), that meant Legos and Lincoln Logs, wooden blocks, and porcelain

tea sets. Dolls and Brio trains. Puzzles, balls, and craft projects. Other constants on her shelves included yo-yos, marbles, Slinkys, and simple games like Pick-Up Sticks. “I hardly ever had anything with a battery. That never changed,” she said. Bobay’s son, Mike, said growing up with a mom who spent her days surrounded by board games, Lincoln Logs, balls, and dolls didn’t mean he had all the toys in the world. Instead, he played outside a lot — though he admits he favored a couple toys. “I liked Legos and the little green army men,” the 48-year-old said from his home in Oakland County. “I think I had a garbage can full of army men. I remember lining them all up in the living room.” (Which was OK — until one of them got lost in the shag carpeting, and his dad found it the hard way, he said.) CHANGE: THE ONE CONTSTANT Today, Karen Bobay still runs the shop every day, though she admitted that despite her best efforts, some things have changed. For one thing, things like jack-in-the-boxes, rubber balls, and wooden blocks have given way to video games and other electronics. “Today people like anything that makes noise or has flashing lights,” she said resignedly. Not only have kids’ desires changed, she’s witnessed the toys themselves change, morphing over the years from wood to plastic, and the packaging (looking at you, LOL Surprises) becoming more alluring than the trinket inside. Even board games have gotten thinner and less durable. Another change Bobay’s experienced firsthand: competition — lots of it. First it was big

box stores, such as Kmart and Toys R Us. Meijer, Target, and Walmart followed. Then came the online onslaught of Amazon and its ilk. “In the last 10 years, people are buying online,” she said. And, take note, shoppers: She’s long been wise to it. “They come in, ask questions, then go order [online].” Another change she’s observed is the number of toys children receive. “Kids get so many toys, they don’t know what to open first,” said Bobay. “Now it’s about how many packages, not what’s in them.” The biggest shift, of course, came this last year: The pandemic, which has militated against the kinds of familiar and familial gatherings that brought people together and really made the holiday season feel extra special for her and her customers. “We didn’t have the lighting of the Christmas tree or the fall open house,” Bobay lamented. Nevertheless, she said customers have always found their way into the little store from communities nearby and distant, whether that’s families here for the summer or visiting from Roscommon, Grayling, Harbor Springs, or beyond. And they have kept coming back, year after year. “I’m working on the third or fourth generation. It’s like a tradition,” she said. Support from locals, delighted visitors, and others who’ve returned for the personal attention — plus the hands-on toys and games she’s always stocked — is what’s kept her in touch with youngsters and kept her in business. BIG LITTLE PLANS No doubt Bobay has earned her time off

Soon-to be-retired Karen Bobay, owner of the Children’s World toy store in downtown Traverse City. Terry Beia, landlord of the Arcade shopping spot where Children’s World is located, had this to say about her longtime tenant: "Karen Bobay is a downtown retail legend and the self appointed Queen Bee of our Arcade Family. She is irreplaceable and will be sorely missed. Karen is what makes Front Street special. We have had our moments over the past 22 years, but once Karen got me trained as a landlord, it has been smooth sailing …Childrens World is a Traverse City institution and proof that bigger isn't always better.”

after 47 years of running the store seven days a week. What will she do with so much free time? Her son said he doubts she’ll slow down much. “The last thing she wants to do is sit and watch the birds and pet the cat.” Funnily enough, that’s exactly what Bobay said she’s looking forward to most. “I want to sit and enjoy watching the birds,” she said. Told that’s what his mother had said, Mike laughed. “We’ll see how well that lasts,” he responded, adding that his mom was part of a group of women who loved to get together for lunch or go to happy hour. For her part, upon reflection, Karen Bobay amended her reply. “Maybe I’ll stroll downtown and walk into other stores,” she said. Whatever her plans turn out to be, that time is only weeks away. She plans to close after the holiday season, and indeed, the stock is dwindling. “It’s never been this empty,” said Mike, almost wonderingly. For those who would like to stop in and say hello, maybe even pick up a last toy to remember, Children’s World is still open every day. And the woman behind the counter, or walking up to ask what you’re looking for, is the same one who’s been there for 47 years.

Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 17

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Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 19

Sylvie's Love

The Small Are

By Meg Weichman With all the changes to our holiday plans and traditions this year, it’s nice to look for the silver linings. And one good tiding of comfort and joy is that there has never been a better time to be an at-home movie watcher than right now. So when you need a break from all the familiar Christmas classics or just Christmas cheer in general, there's a huge slate of new release movies streaming from the comfort and safety of your home (Thanks, Santa COVID!). And while the family outings to the movie theater may not be in the cards, it doesn’t mean you can’t bring a bit of the magic of the theatrical experience home. With plenty of brand new big-screen worthy fare available on streaming platforms and VOD, you can simply stay in your PJs, turn up the sound, turn down the lights, and settle in with one of these excellent film selections. Better start perfecting your popcorn recipe now! BLOCKBUSTERS & STAR POWER After a year of ever-revolving release date cancellations and delays, some of the year’s biggest and most anticipated films are skipping the theaters and heading right into our homes for Christmas — it’s the gift of streaming! • Lasso the family together for the highly anticipated (it was initially scheduled to debut in June) superhero sequel, Wonder Woman 1984. Star Gal Gadot and director Patty Jenkins return for another round of derring-do, with our most earnest and compassionate of caped crusaders, Diana Prince, going up against a new pair of villains (played by Pedro Pascal and Kristen Wiig) amidst the reignited Cold War tensions of the Able Archer-era Regan administration. A big, beaming beacon of joy and excitement, action and romance, the film’s hopeful message, not to mention its blockbuster thrills, is exactly what we’re all craving right now. Streaming on HBO Max Dec. 25 • The latest from Pixar, the world’s gold standard for animated films, is unlike anything the studio has brought us before. The first Pixar film to feature an African

American lead, Soul is a metaphysical jazz odyssey that takes us into the innermost workings of humanity and the creation of our very souls. If that all sounds a bit existential for your cartoon viewing, it’s because this film that is so much more — poignant, innovative, gentle, cerebral, sweet, funny, beautiful, and a must-see this holiday season. Streaming on Disney+ Dec. 25 • An ambitious sci-fi epic hiding an old school Stanley Kramer-message movie, The Midnight Sky is apocalyptic drama at its finest. Directed by and starring your mom’s favorite actor, George Clooney, the film follows Augustine Lofthouse, an arctic scientist desperately trying to reach a returning NASA spaceship to alert them that Earth has become uninhabitable following cataclysmic environmental events. Also starring Kyle Chandler, Felicity Jones, and David Oyelowo, this gripping tale is both a powerful warning call and a moving story of redemption. Streaming on Netflix Dec. 23. • We may have to wait for Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story until next year, but we can enjoy another star-studded Broadway musical adaptation this Christmas with The Prom. Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, James Corden, Kerry Washington, and Andrew Rannells star in this story of down-on-theirluck Broadway performers who take their “Let’s Put on a Show” pluck to small-town Indiana to give a teen girl the prom she deserves. Charmingly corny and undeniably catchy, this goofy and sweet toe-tapper from Ryan Murphy brings the exuberant joy of live theater home. Streaming on Netflix. SERIOUS AWARDS CONTENDERS If your next favorite season after the holidays is awards season, you can spend your winter break catching up on all the prestigious Oscar bait dropping just in time for the end-ofyear qualifying deadlines. And although what will follow will no doubt be one of the strangest awards seasons in film history, there are still plenty of statuette-worthy movies to enjoy. • A passion project over 30 years in the making, Mank tells the story of acclaimed screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz, played by Oscar-winner Gary Oldham, as he works

20 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

on a little film you may have heard of before: Citizen Kane. Written and directed by the great David Fincher (Zodiac, Gone Girl, Fight Club, The Social Network), this rapturous, gorgeous, and beautifully crafted look at old Hollywood is the film lovers' event of the year. Streaming on Netflix. • The Christmas gift for cinephiles that keeps on giving, the brilliant Steve McQueen (of the Oscar-winning 12 Years a Slave), brings us a new collection of five original feature films. The Small Axe anthology series tells the stories of London's West Indian community from the late 1960s to mid-1980s, and these standalone films are among the very best of the year. The standouts include Mangrove, the gripping and powerful true story of The Mangrove Nine (and the historic trial that followed), and Lovers Rock a beautiful romance set to an intoxicating rhythm of song and dance. Streaming on Amazon Prime. • The latest experiment from director

Steven Soderbergh’s post-“retirement” career takes an awards-darling cast (Meryl Streep, Candice Bergen, Dianne Wiest, Lucas Hedges), puts them on a luxury cruise liner (a transatlantic crossing of The Queen Mary 2), and then makes a guerilla-style film while aboard (with a very small crew, including a makeup artist with ties to Leelanau). A wry exploration of female friendship, Let Them All Talk follows a trio of college friends reuniting and trading salty quips in a film that is a marvel of not only filmmaking but performance. Streaming on HBO Max. • This adaptation of August Wilson’s award-winning play Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a must-see for many reasons: The amazing Viola Davis in the title role, its incredible blues music, and its searing story of working black musicians in an industry that doesn’t respect them. But without a doubt the most compelling reason is the chance to see Chadwick Boseman’s final performance as trumpeter Levee, a part he infuses with so

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much vitality and verve it’s impossible to not expect awards nominations to follow and also impossible to not feel the pain of a talent gone far too soon. Streaming on Netflix. INDIES & FOREIGN With all the comfort food going around the table, pair it with an experience perhaps outside of your comfort zone, and explore one of these independent or foreign films. You may not be traveling, but you can travel the expanses of the cinematic world. • You don’t have to be a fan of heavy metal to appreciate this mesmerizing story of a heavy metal drummer (Riz Ahmed in a beautiful performance for the books) who is losing his hearing. Blistering and visceral in its power, Sound of Metal’s distinctive visual and aural techniques makes for an unforgettable experience for your senses. Delicately illuminating the deaf community, as well as one man’s journey of love and loss, this character study finds its greatest power in aching silence. Streaming on Amazon Prime. • A sumptuous period romance set in mid-century New York City and against an aching backdrop of jazz and music, Sylvie’s Love tells the story of a chance meeting turned years-long love affair. Tessa Thompson (Thor: Ragnarok) stars as Sylvie, who meets saxophonist Robert in her father’s record store and is ignited by feelings she doesn’t expect. A swooning old-school love story, its gorgeous design, costumes, and score are rivaled only by its deep feeling. Streaming on Amazon Prime Dec. 25. • Now a documentary about the corruption of the Romanian health care system sounds like the kind of good-for-you cinematic medicine someone could only force you to take. And while Collective is very much about that seemingly dense topic, it’s is much better served to be described as the gripping and infuriating thriller it is. Following a team of heroic journalists exposing corruption after a deadly nightclub fire, with breathtaking access and propulsive urgency the film is a riveting real-time look at a quest for truth. Available on Video On Demand. • Jack London’s most autobiographical of novels, Martin Eden, gets transported to Italy in this sweeping adaptation. An old fashioned historical epic, it follows the young, self-educated working-class Martin as he sets his sights on an upper-crust girl and his dreams of becoming a writer. But as Martin soon finds, the bourgeoise isn’t perhaps all that it’s cracked up to be, resulting in an awakening that dissolves the line between triumph and tragedy. Romantic, lush, and superbly crafted, this is a true cinematic achievement. Video On Demand through Kino Marquee.

FAMILY FLICKS Too many trips to the uncanny valley of The Polar Express? Take a break from deadeyed Tom Hanks and watch one of these new family-friendly finds. • Doing for fairy godmothers what Enchanted did for Disney princesses, family fairytale Godmothered brings these classic elder fairies into our modern world with loads of laughs. The hilarious Jillian Bell stars as Eleanor, a godmother-in-training who is dismayed to learn that her chosen profession is in danger of going extinct. She sets out to show the world just how much fairy godmothers are needed by answering a young girl’s letter. Problem is, said young girl is now all grown up and a single mom played by Isla Fisher. But you can bet this unexpected turn of events isn't going to stop Eleanor from giving her a "Happily Ever After" in this charming comedy. Streaming on Disney+. • Everyone’s favorite prehistoric family is back for a new epic animated adventure in The Croods: A New Age. This time around, as the Croods and their adorable pet sloth search for a safe place to call home, they encounter a family further along the evolutionary ladder, the Bettermans. What starts as an antagonistic meeting of the minds changes course when a new common threat emerges, forcing the families to band together and learn from each other to survive. Featuring an allvoice cast including Nicolas Cage, Emma Stone, and Ryan Reynolds, this sequel to the hit film is filled with the slapstick, imaginative, and yes, crude humor kids love. Available on Premium Video On Demand. • From the acclaimed hand-drawn animation team that brought us the Oscarnominated The Secret of Kells, comes their latest dazzling Celtic adventure, Wolfwalkers. An enchanting story of love, kindness, and empathy set against ancient Irish werewolf mythology, it’s as rich of an experience emotionally as it is visually. A heartfelt and mesmerizing watch for adults and children alike, this is far from your standard, corporate kiddie fare. Streaming on Apple TV+. • Based on an inspiring true story, Safety follows Clemson University football safety Ray McElrathbey as he meets the challenges of raising his 11-year-old brother while competing in the highpressure, high-profile world of Division 1 college football. Like The Blind Side meets Disney’s storied tradition of empowering sports dramas (think The Rookie, Miracle, Cool Runnings, etc), this is an uplifting and heartfelt film that is all too easy to root for. Streaming on Disney+.

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Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 21

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The New New Year’s Eve 6 ways to say a safe sayonara to 2020

By Ross Boissoneau “Should auld acquaintance be forgot?” Well, in the case of 2020, absolutely. Can’t get it in the rearview mirror fast enough. But with the threat of COVID-19 around every corner, how to ring in the new year safely? There are some options. THOMSONVILLE You like parades? You like skiing? You like fire? Hey, who doesn’t? So, here’s a deal for you. At Crystal Mountain, the Family Glow Light & Torchlight Parades begin at the top of Cheers to Lou at 10pm. Participants must be 18+ to carry a torch; younger skiers will carry a glow light. Everyone with a valid season pass or lift ticket is welcome to participate. For safe dining and partying options, kick off 2021 year with a full-fledged albeit intimate party in your room. New Year's Eve party packs ($15) include four each of top hats, tiaras, noisemakers, “Happy New Year” eyeglasses, and a “Happy New Year” banner. Staying home? You can get a New Year's Eve To-Go for Two, a box of outstanding eats (shrimp cocktail, artisan meats, and cheeses, cranberry-basil goat cheese crostini), smoked whitefish dip, beef tenderloin, a garden of grilled veggies, and chocolate-dipped strawberries, too) so you can celebrate in the comfort of your own home. Cost is $95 per box, with an order deadline of noon on Wednesday, Dec. 30 and pick up at the time you select on New Year’s Eve. BELLAIRE Fire(works) on the mountain; run boys run. At Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire, you can check out two fireworks shows: The first is over Schuss Mountain after the slopes close at 9pm, and the other over Summit Mountain, following the close of the alpine tubing park at 10. BOYNE CITY & HARBOR SPRINGS While Boyne Mountain and Boyne Highlands have canceled their traditional torchlight parades and fireworks, both resorts are offering holiday activities where guests can

appropriately be spaced apart, both indoors and out. Treats and snacks are all individually wrapped and served to guests by gloved staff members. Indoor rooms are cleaned and sanitized between each use. Facemasks are required by all attendees and team members. For specifics, go to www.boynemountain.com and www.boynehighlands.com. TRAVERSE CITY With apologies to Fleetwood Mac, you can go your own way at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. The resort’s New Year’s Eve Your Way Package includes one night’s accommodations, a bottle of bubbly, party favors, a $100 Resort credit, plus special savings at Spa Grand Traverse and the Gallery of Shops. Or if you prefer to celebrate from own home, the New Year’s Eve Dinner to Go is a four-person spread featuring a chef’s charcuterie, herbpepper-crusted bistro steak with horseradish cream, assorted chocolate truffles, and more. No prep time, just pick it up, warm it up, and bid the year a not-so-fond farewell. As the resort says, “This meal is the perfect way to say goodbye to 2020.” And good riddance. Everybody’s downtown Traverse City

favorite is taking on a new life this year. The Cherry T-Ball Drop has, like so many other events in this year of the pandemic, gone virtual. But don’t despair — there are advantages. As it says on the website, “This year, party in your pajamas and watch the Cherry T-Ball Drop live on Facebook.” The event, brought to you by the good folks at the National Cherry Festival, always collects donations to a local charity that’s focused on food insecurity, and this year is no exception. Food Rescue collects fresh healthy food and distributes it to local food pantries. To donate, head to www.cherrytballdrop.org or go directly to www.goodwillnwmi.org.

per couple), highlighted by pomegranate quinoa salad, whitefish crab cake and beef tournedos and lemon ricotta cake. For the complete mouthwatering description, go to www.blackstarfarms.com/new-years-evedining. Pickup is Dec. 31 from 2pm to 4 pm. Or you can opt to stay at the inn and choose from room service — or a table for two in a private dining space. With plenty of room to roam and to spread out, including the banquet room, dining room, fireside room, library, and lounge, distancing won’t be a problem. Black Star conveniently is offering wine pairing suggestions with each course, so any add-ons are the choice of guests.

LEELANAU And you can still make it a party with a bottle (or two) of the event’s signature wine, Mawby Ball Drop Bubbly. It is available at local retailers and at www.mawby.wine, or you can head out to Mawby HQ at 4519 Elm Valley Rd., in Suttons Bay. Then head home to watch the giant TC cherry descend to ring in the new (and hopefully better) year. Black Star Farms of Suttons Bay is offering a romantic four-course dinner for two ($150

GAYLORD Treetops Resort in Gaylord is also hosting a slimmed-down set of festivities. Dinner options, music, comedy, and fireworks are all possibilities, though this year, there will, of course, be limited availability. See www.Treetops.com. And if you want to run 2020 into the ground, kick off 2021 with the New Year’s Resolution Run 5K in Ludington. There are both in-person and virtual options. Go to DowntownLudington.org/runludington.

Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 23

dec 19

saturday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: For a $25 donation, hear an interview with retired high school psychics teacher & local artist David Kirby. David shares his inspiration & creative process behind the Solar System Model. All donations will be matched at 100% by Real Estate One Charitable Foundation. Runs through Dec. artsforallnmi.org

---------------------SANTA’S VILLAGE ADVENTURE: 2-6pm, The Village at GT Commons, on the piazza, in front of Left Foot Charley, TC. Reserve your private time slot to take a carriage ride through the Village Campus, a socially distanced visit with Santa, & a walk through the 1885 Steam Tunnels. Cost is $200; reservations are for members of the same household, up to 8 people. Ages 3 & under are free. $25 of the ticket price will be donated to a local food pantry. Find ‘Santa’s Village Adventure’ on Facebook.

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BENZIE COUNTY DEMOCRATS MONTHLY MEETING: Held via Zoom. Meetings on third Saturday of the month, with 9:30am coffee klatch, 10am community announcements, followed by featured speaker. Free. benziedemocrats.com

---------------------CASTLE FARMS HOLIDAY DISPLAY: 10am4pm, Castle Farms, Charlevoix. Featuring over 50 trees, dozens of inflatables, numerous decorative scenes, & over 100 years of history. Hand sanitizing stations are spread throughout, masks are required on site, & the display offers plenty of space to social distance. Held Tuesdays through Saturdays through Dec. 24. $10; free for ages 2 & under. castlefarms.com/ events/holiday-display

---------------------WARD AND EIS GALLERY SUPPORTS WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER: Ward and Eis Gallery in downtown Petoskey continues a tradition of giving back to the community by donating 20% of purchases on Sat., Dec. 12 & 19, to Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan. The benefit is known as “Gifts Twice Given” because part of the proceeds of gifts purchased on these two Saturdays also supports life-saving & life-changing services for adult & child survivors of abuse & assault. 231-347-2750.

---------------------MODEL RAILROAD ZOOM MEETING: 10am1pm. National Model Railroad Association North Central Region Division 2 Monthly Zoom Meeting. Includes a presentation on model railroading & a show & tell. For login & password contact: superintendent.nmra.ncr.div2@gmail. com Free.

---------------------PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: This local pianist has prepared a recording of his talent in the form of three vignettes: Tradition. Home. Goodwill. Enjoy at your leisure throughout the holiday season. Free. tadl.org/christmasmusic

---------------------FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION: 10:30am-1pm, Otsego County Food Pantry, United Way Building, rear, Gaylord. A drive thru distribution.

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NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED UP NORTH: 11am. Purchase a virtual ticket on Anywhere Seat to stream directly to your home devices. You can stream the performance for $25 for the whole family. crookedtreeartscenter.anywhereseat.com/channel.php

---------------------THE GREAT PETOSKEY TAKE OUT TAKE 2: Stay safe & support local restaurants with take-out menus with special pricing. Featuring lunch, dinner &/or family meals. Dec. 1623. petoskeychamber.com/events/details/thegreat-petoskey-take-out-take-2-23548?calend arMonth=2020-12-01

---------------------A CELTIC FAMILY CHRISTMAS AT HOME: 7pm. Natalie MacMaster, together with hus-

band Donnell Leahy & their seven children, will celebrate Christmas virtually this year, playing music for you, dancing, singing, baking, talking about Christmas memories past, & more. $20. cityoperahouse.org/natalie_macmaster_donnell_leahy_%20Family_Christmas_%20celtic%20_music_buy_tickets

dec 20

dec/jan

19-03

sunday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

send your dates to: events@traverseticker.com

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------THE GREAT PETOSKEY TAKE OUT TAKE 2: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 21

monday

GREAT CONJUNCTION OF JUPITER AND SATURN: 4:30pm, online event. Hosted by Headlands International Dark Sky Park. facebook.com/ events/1045456519152402

---------------------ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------THE GREAT PETOSKEY TAKE OUT TAKE 2: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 22

Help support Arts for All Northern Michigan during their winter fundraiser: Traverse the Universe. For a $25 donation, to help provide access and inclusive opportunities for children and adults with and without disabilities to experience and grow through the arts, hear an interview with retired high school psychics teacher and local artist David Kirby. David shares his inspiration and creative process behind the Solar System Model. All donations will be matched at 100% by Real Estate One Charitable Foundation. Runs through Dec. artsforallnmi.org PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

tuesday

THE HISTORY & FOLKLORE OF SANTA CLAUS (ZOOM): 6:30PM. WHERE, EXACTLY, DID Santa Claus come from, & why does his popularity remain so high in modern American popular culture? This illustrated lecture has details on the journey Bishop Nicholas made to become the current-day Santa Claus. Registration required. Once registered you will receive further info on how to join the event. Free. tadl.org/event/the-historyand-folklore-of-santa-claus-zoom

---------------------ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------CASTLE FARMS HOLIDAY DISPLAY: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------THE GREAT PETOSKEY TAKE OUT TAKE 2: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------THE SALVATION ARMY TC CHRISTMAS DINNER COMMUNITY MEAL: Served TO-GO from 11am-2pm from food trucks in the parking lot at The Salvation Army Community Center, 1239 Barlow St., TC. centralusa.salvationarmy.org/traversecity/news/rescue-christmas/

dec 24

thursday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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CASTLE FARMS HOLIDAY DISPLAY: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19) NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------THE GREAT PETOSKEY TAKE OUT TAKE 2: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 23

wednesday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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CASTLE FARMS HOLIDAY DISPLAY: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

24 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19) NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 25

friday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 26

saturday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 27

sunday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 28

monday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

MooseandStellas.com — TroutTownTavern.com

Kalkaska

dec 29

tuesday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 30

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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dec 31

thursday

FAMILY GLOW LIGHT & TORCHLIGHT PARADES: Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. The parades begin at the top of Cheers to Lou at 10pm. Registration is required at the Snowsports Desk (at Mountain Adventure Zone). Participants must be ages 18+ to carry a torch. Ages 6-17 will carry a glow light. 9:15-9:40pm: Buck chairlift will be accessible for parade participants. Everyone with a valid season pass or lift ticket is welcome to participate. Guests staying at Crystal Mountain & Four Seasons Club members can enjoy fireworks over the mountain at 10:30pm. crystalmountain.com/ event/new-years-eve-celebration

---------------------VIRTUAL TC NEW YEAR’S EVE CHERRYT BALL DROP: Party in your pajamas & watch the CherryT Ball Drop live on Facebook. You can purchase Ball Drop Bubbly from Mawby in Leelanau, online at Mawby.Wine, or at a local retailer. Also consider donating to Food Rescue. cherrytballdrop.org

---------------------COUNTDOWN TO NOON!: Held via Zoom. Presented by Great Lakes Children’s Museum. Enjoy crafts, games, & the ball drop. Only one ticket per family needed. Info: greatlakeskids. org/events/countdown2020/

---------------------ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------PEER SUPPORT VIRTUAL NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY: 6-10pm. Presented by Disability Network. Enjoy some of the most popular events from this year of Digital Peer Support programs. disabilitynetwork.org/events

---------------------PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

jan 01

friday

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

jan 02

Great Food is Always a Great Gift Buy a

$50 gift card

saturday

PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

for them!

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NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED UP NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

wednesday

NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

3RD ANNUAL NORTHERN MICHIGAN FROZEN RABBIT 5K RUN/WALK: Staggered start beginning at 9am & ending by 1pm. Starts & ends at the Norte Wheelhouse at the GT Civic Center, TC. $5 before Dec. 15; $10 before Dec. 31. $5 off for families with three or more racers. 12 & under race for free. Proceeds benefit Norte youth programs. elgruponorte.org/rabbit

jan 03

sunday

NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED UP NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

ongoing

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

---------------------DISABILITY NETWORK WOMEN’S GROUP, SHARING HERSTORY: ZOOM MEETINGS: MONDAYS, DEC. 7-28, 11AM-noon. For women with disabilities living in an unprecedented time of social distancing & sheltering in place. disabilitynetwork.org/events

---------------------NORTE’S RUN SABADOS: GT Civic Center, TC. A weekly walk or run held on Saturdays. Meet outside the Wheelhouse at 10am, & then split up & hit the track.

---------------------WEEKLY ZOOM STORY HOUR: Wednesdays, 11am, with Miss Ann. Presented by Interlochen Public Library. Meeting ID 876 3279 3456. Pass Code 364283.

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

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

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

art

TOYOTA DREAM CAR USA ART CONTEST: Runs through Jan. Presented by Great Lakes Children’s Museum, Ann Arbor Hands-On, CauseConnect, & Toyota USA. This contest is designed to inspire creativity in youth, ages 4-15, & help them imagine the future of mobility. A total of nine U.S. winners will be announced during March 2021. These winners will receive cash prizes, ready-to-frame digital scans of their drawings, & award certificates. Also, their artwork will be submitted to Japan for consideration in the World Contest, along with the nine top entries from nearly 90 countries. For rules & details, visit www.greatlakeskids.org/toyotadreamcarusa or www.ToyotaDreamCarUSA.com.

---------------------THE COVID 19 WREATH COLLECTION: Dec. 5 - Feb. 21. Presented by Art Rapids. Bring an old or new wreath to the Walk of Art Park, Elk Rapids & attach it to the fence on S. Bayshore Dr. Give some festive bling to a “Pandemic” fence that goes on & on. Take a photo & tag on Instagram or Facebook: #artrapids.

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Get a

$10 gift card

Wave goodbye to 2020 and hop into 2021 at the 3rd Annual Northern Michigan Frozen Rabbit 5K Run/Walk. Held on New Year’s Day, starting and ending at the Norte Wheelhouse at GT Civic Center, TC, a staggered start begins at 9am and ends by 1pm. Register before Dec. 31 for $10. $5 off for families with three or more racers and free for 12 and under. Proceeds benefit Norte youth programs. elgruponorte.org/rabbit

for you!

HOLLYPOP REIMAGINED: A FESTIVAL OF Traverse-City/Exhibitions-TC/Just-Great-ART/ LIGHTS: Old Art Building, Leland. Over two Just-Great-ART/i-fNDV67s dozen trees were added to the front lawn & half Gaylord — AlpineTavernAndEatery.com — THE CraveGaylord.com “DON’T MISS BOAT”: Harbor Springs Hiswere selected to represent a “12 Days of Christtory Museum. Presented by the Harbor Springs mas” display. Each tree was given a color, desArea Historical Society. This exhibit highlights ignated by the ornaments & the individual artists the historic ferries of Little Traverse Bay & feawere assigned a tree & a line from the “12 Days tures original watercolors & giclees by local artist of Christmas.” They were free to interpret/express William Talmadge Hall. Runs through the sumtheir theme as they wished. Runs through Jan. 1, mer of 2021. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11am-3pm. har2021. oldartbuilding.com/events/holly-pop borspringshistory.org/history-museum-exhibits HOLIDAY ART MARKET SHOW & SALE:Schedule your FREE site assessment for OPEN CALL FOR “THOSE WHO TEACH”: Gaylord Area Council for the Arts, Gaylord. solar energy at your home, farm or business Deadline to apply is 1/15/21. Exhibit featuring Jewelry, photography, pottery & much more. Inthe artwork of Michigan’s Visual Art Educators. person or online. Runs through Dec. 23. Hours: higherartgallery.com/calls-for-art Weds. - Fri., 1-4pm; Sat., 12-2pm. gaylordarts. org/events--exhibits.html CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF THE ARTS, “THE LAMPLIGHTER”: Downtown Manistee, CHARLEVOIX next to Christmas tree. This sculpture created - FREE “MAKE & TAKE” CRAFT KITS: by artists Tyler & Ashley Voorhees was conThrough Dec. 31, while supplies last, drop by structed with dozens of antiquated tools & man& pick up a free ornament craft kit to take home made artifacts in a grand gesture to this humble & enjoy. worker of the past. You are invited to pedal the - ALL MEDIA OPEN CALL TO MICHIGAN stationary bikes surrounding the sculpture to ARTISTS: Submit to: re | ART: reject, reflect, generate light. “The Lamplighter” symbolizes a refine, remark, a juried fine arts exhibit. Artists collective connection to spread that light. The are invited to comment visually on the many exhibition will run from Dec. 4 - Jan. 4. Presentshifts taking place in our current experience, as ed by Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts. change opens a path to rethink, revisit, reunite, recharge, reevaluate, redefine, etc. Juror will GAAC OUTDOOR GALLERY: CALL FOR award cash prizes. Deadline for entry is Jan. ENTRIES: The Glen Arbor Arts Center is ac10 at noon. charlevoixcircle.org/juried-exhibit cepting submissions for its 2021 Outdoor GalCHARLEVOIX CIRCLE MARKET: lery. The exhibition space is the south & west Charlevoix Circle of Arts hosts its annual Circle exterior walls of the GAAC’s building at 6031 mARkeT, Nov. 19 - Jan. 2, featuring over 40 loS. Lake St., Glen Arbor. Original work by a cal artists’ & makers’ handmade items, original single artist will be selected by a jury, & exhibart & locally produced specialty treats. Open: ited from May 2021 to April 2022. Deadline for Mon.-Fri., 11am-4pm; Sat., 11am-3pm; *Wed. submissions is February 25, 2021. Open to all & Thurs. mornings from 10-11am are reserved media, the selected work will be eye-catching, for vulnerable patrons. CharlevoixCircle.org compelling, colorful & communicate the spirit of DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC: the Glen Arbor Arts Center with fresh original- DENNOS MUSEUM MINI HOLIDAY ARTIST ity. The selected exhibitor’s original work will be MARKET: Shop online, Dec. 1-23. Featuring enlarged & reproduced on five, separate, 5 foot the work of over 20 Michigan artists. Please x 5 foot square outdoor panels for one year. A visit the museum website for up to date hours $500 prize will be awarded to the selected artof operation. shop.dennosmuseum.org ist. Submissions are online only. To apply visit - MATHIAS J. ALTEN: AN AMERICAN ARTGlenArborArt.org & click on ARTIST/Calls For IST AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY: The Entry. glenarborart.org/exhibits/current-exhibits German-born American Impressionist Mathias “KIDS ON COMMUNITY”: Youth artists Joseph Alten, often referred to as the Dean were invited to submit artwork in response to of Michigan painters, is regarded as one of the theme of “Community.” Fun, thoughtful the most celebrated regionalist artists to have & creative interpretations by Michigan youth worked in the United States. Runs through Jan. (grades 3 - 12) are included in this online im31. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibiage gallery. Runs Dec. 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021. tions/index.html crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey-ctac-on- MICHIGAN MODERN: AN ARCHITECline/kids-community-online-exhibit TURAL LEGACY: This exhibit celebrates Michigan’s modern architectural design hisJRAC GIFT MARKET: Jordan River Arts tory from 1928-2012. It is comprised of over Council, East Jordan, Nov. 21 - Dec. 19. Open 50 photographs by James Haefner primarily for daily, 1-4pm. the State Historic Preservation Office as part of their Michigan Modern Project, & featured “JUST GREAT ART”: Presented by Plein Air in the book by State Historic Preservation OfPainters of Northwest Michigan. An online exficer Brian Conway, titled “Michigan Modern: An hibit & sale of over 50 works by regional artists. Architectural Legacy.” Runs through Jan. 31. 20% of the City Opera House. 203 S.proceeds Cedar benefit - Kalkaska dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/ Runs through Jan. crookedtree.smugmug.com/ index.html

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888-90-SOLAR

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Flavor

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Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 25

dec 29

tuesday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

dec 30

---------------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

jan 02

saturday

PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED UP NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

wednesday

ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

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PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

- - - - - - - -ANNUAL -------------NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

After Christmas

thursday SALE - ONE DAY ONLY! dec 10am - 5:30pm 31 40% OFF STOREWIDE

FAMILY GLOW LIGHT & TORCHLIGHT PARADES: Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville. The parades begin *excludes Magnolia Pearl Blends* at the topand of Ambre Cheers to Lou at 10pm. Registration is required at the Snowsports Desk (at Mountain Adventure Zone). Participants must be ages 18+ to carry a torch. Ages 6-17 will carry a glow light. 9:15-9:40pm: Buck chairlift will be accessible for downtown Suttons Bay parade participants. Everyone with a valid season pass or lift ticket is welcome to participate. Guests staying at Crystal Mountain & Four Seasons Club members can enjoy fireworks over the mountain at 10:30pm. crystalmountain.com/ event/new-years-eve-celebration

231-271-5462

jan 03

sunday

NUTCRACKER 2020: REIMAGINED UP NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

DISABILITY NETWORK MEN’S GROUP: Zoom meetings: Mondays, Dec. 7-28, 1011am. This group is for men in the community seeking support, an opportunity to learn new 231-237-0955 • 106 E. Garfield Ave. skills & a chance to connect with other men with disabilities. Visit web site for registration details. disabilitynetwork.org/events

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

DISABILITY NETWORK WOMEN’S GROUP, SHARING HERSTORY: ZOOM MEETINGS: MONDAYS, DEC. 7-28, 11AM-noon. For women with disabilities living in an unprecedented time of social distancing & sheltering in place. disabilitynetwork.org/events

HOLIDAY ART MARKET SHOW & SALE: Gaylord Area Council for the Arts, Gaylord. Jewelry, photography, pottery & much more. Inperson or online. Runs through Dec. 23. Hours: Weds. - Fri., 1-4pm; Sat., 12-2pm. gaylordarts. org/events--exhibits.html

TRAVERSE CITY ongoing 231-929-3200 • 4952 Skyview Ct. CHARLEVOIX

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---------------------NORTE’S RUN SABADOS: GT Civic Center, TC. A weekly walk or run held on Saturdays. Meet outside the Wheelhouse at 10am, & then split up & hit the track.

www.schulzortho.com

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ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN FOR 2021/22 SCHOOL - - - - - - - - - - - - -YEAR ---------

---------------------ARTS FOR ALL WINTER FUNDRAISER: TRAVERSE THE UNIVERSE: (See Sat., Dec. 19)

WEEKLY ZOOM STORY HOUR: Wednesdays, 11am, with Miss Ann. Presented by Interlochen Public Library. Meeting ID 876 3279 3456. Pass Code 364283. BELLAIRE WINTER FARMERS MARKET: Held on Fridays from 10am-2pm. Located at both Bee Well & Terrain in downtown Bellaire.

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

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

art

TOYOTA DREAM CAR USA ART CONTEST: Runs through Jan. Presented by Great Lakes Children’s Museum, Ann Arbor Hands-On, CauseConnect, & Toyota USA. This contest PIANIST PETER BERGEN PRESENTS: is designed to inspire creativity in youth, ages THREE VIGNETTES FOR CHRISTMAS: 4-15, & help 10 themmiles imagine from the future of mobility. Tuition (See Sat., Dec. 19)free, public school located A total of nine U.S. winners will be announced downtown City during March 2021. These winners will receive NUTCRACKER 2020: Traverse REIMAGINED UP cash prizes, ready-to-frame digital scans of their NORTH: (See Sat., Dec. 19) PreK-6th grade drawings, & award certificates. Also,FOR their artwork CALL US A will be submitted to Japan for consideration in the Small Class Sizes World Contest, alongTOUR with the TODAY! nine top entries Expansive Outdoor Learning Campus from nearly 90 countries. For rules & details, visit 231-252-0225 www.greatlakeskids.org/toyotadreamcarusa or 3RD ANNUAL NORTHERN Upgraded Technology www.ToyotaDreamCarUSA.com. MICHIGAN FROZEN RABBIT 5K RUN/WALK: Staggered16 BATA Bus stop on Route THE COVID 19 WREATH COLLECTION: start beginning at 9am & endDec. 5 - Feb. 21. Presented by Art Rapids. ing by 1pm. Starts & ends at Bring an old or new wreath to the Walk of Art the Norte Wheelhouse at the Park, Elk Rapids & attach it to the fence on S. GT Civic Center, TC. $5 before Dec. 15; $10 beBayshore Dr. Give some festive bling to a “Panfore Dec. 31. $5 off for families with three or more demic” fence that goes on & on. Take a photo & racers. 12 & under race for free. Proceeds benefit tag on Instagram or Facebook: #artrapids. Norte youth programs. elgruponorte.org/rabbit

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

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GAAC OUTDOOR GALLERY: CALL FOR ENTRIES: The Glen Arbor Arts Center is accepting submissions for its 2021 Outdoor Gallery. The exhibition space is the south & west exterior walls of the GAAC’s building at 6031 S. Lake St., Glen Arbor. Original work by a single artist will be selected by a jury, & exhibited from May 2021 to April 2022. Deadline for submissions is February 25, 2021. Open to all media, the selected work will be eye-catching, compelling, colorful & communicate the spirit of the Glen Arbor Arts Center with fresh originality. The selected exhibitor’s original work will be enlarged & reproduced on five, separate, 5 foot x 5 foot square outdoor panels for one year. A $500 prize will be awarded to the selected artist. Submissions are online only. To apply visit GlenArborArt.org & click on ARTIST/Calls For Entry. glenarborart.org/exhibits/current-exhibits

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“KIDS ON COMMUNITY”: Youth artists were invited to submit artwork in response to the theme of “Community.” Fun, thoughtful & creative interpretations by Michigan youth (grades 3 - 12) are included in this online image gallery. Runs Dec. 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021. crookedtree.org/event/ctac-petoskey-ctac-online/kids-community-online-exhibit

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

---------------------“JUST GREAT ART”: Presented by Plein Air Painters of Northwest Michigan. An online exhibit & sale of over 50 works by regional artists. 20% of the proceeds benefit City Opera House. Runs through Jan. crookedtree.smugmug.com/

Traverse-City/Exhibitions-TC/Just-Great-ART/ Just-Great-ART/i-fNDV67s

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

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

---------------------CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE OF THE ARTS, CHARLEVOIX - FREE “MAKE & TAKE” CRAFT KITS: Through Dec. 31, while supplies last, drop by & pick up a free ornament craft kit to take home & enjoy. - ALL MEDIA OPEN CALL TO MICHIGAN ARTISTS: Submit to: re | ART: reject, reflect, refine, remark, a juried fine arts exhibit. Artists are invited to comment visually on the many shifts taking place in our current experience, as change opens a path to rethink, revisit, reunite, recharge, reevaluate, redefine, etc. Juror will award cash prizes. Deadline for entry is Jan. 10 at noon. charlevoixcircle.org/juried-exhibit CHARLEVOIX CIRCLE MARKET: Charlevoix Circle of Arts hosts its annual Circle mARkeT, Nov. 19 - Jan. 2, featuring over 40 local artists’ & makers’ handmade items, original art & locally produced specialty treats. Open: Mon.-Fri., 11am-4pm; Sat., 11am-3pm; *Wed. & Thurs. mornings from 10-11am are reserved for vulnerable patrons. CharlevoixCircle.org

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DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER, NMC, TC: - DENNOS MUSEUM MINI HOLIDAY ARTIST MARKET: Shop online, Dec. 1-23. Featuring the work of over 20 Michigan artists. Please visit the museum website for up to date hours of operation. shop.dennosmuseum.org - MATHIAS J. ALTEN: AN AMERICAN ARTIST AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY: The German-born American Impressionist Mathias Joseph Alten, often referred to as the Dean of Michigan painters, is regarded as one of the most celebrated regionalist artists to have worked in the United States. Runs through Jan. 31. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/index.html - MICHIGAN MODERN: AN ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY: This exhibit celebrates Michigan’s modern architectural design history from 1928-2012. It is comprised of over 50 photographs by James Haefner primarily for the State Historic Preservation Office as part of their Michigan Modern Project, & featured in the book by State Historic Preservation Officer Brian Conway, titled “Michigan Modern: An Architectural Legacy.” Runs through Jan. 31. dennosmuseum.org/art/upcoming-exhibitions/ index.html

SPIN IT The best 2020 holiday soundtracks to back your season

By Ross Boissoneau Ahhh, Christmas. Time to put on Perry Como, Julie Andrews, George Winston, Mannheim Steamroller. Get things rocking with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra or the Waitresses’ New Wave “Christmas Wrapping.” Slip back in time to Wham’s “Last Christmas” ! or Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” (again and again and again … ) HOMEGROWN TUNES Point is, there are hundreds, maybe thousands of holiday albums from years past. So instead, let’s look for something new. Like Traverse City musician Peter Bergin’s Three Vignettes for Christmas, a series of improvisations of holiday favorites built around the themes of tradition, home and goodwill. Bergin said the album came out of the livestream events he had been doing throughout the pandemic. He would improvise from the grand piano in his living room on various themes — ’50s music or TV themes, for example — and approached these medleys of holiday music the same way. “What you hear on the CD couldn’t be repeated. That’s how I did the livestreams,” he said. “In the spirit of 2020, it was a true homegrown project,” he added; he and his wife, Carol, did the photography, artwork, even the mixing. The CD can be ordered from his website, www.BerginMusic.com.

Variations follows last year’s Christmas Portraits, and it’s another grab-bag of holiday favorites, with piano and synth stylings. Wakeman wisely refrains from indulging his occasional penchant for overplaying here, and the result is a delightful set of keyboardbased music. These are certainly worthwhile additions to his discography. FOR PEANUTS FANS Is it a Charlie Brown Christmas again for you? It is for David Benoit, the successor to Vince Guaraldi as the musical maestro for the Peanuts gang specials. It’s A David Benoit Christmas includes all your favorites from the animated shows, both originals by Guaraldi and Benoit and traditional tunes like “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” JAUNTY CHRISTMAS VIBES There’s more out there than keyboards though, right? Sure. How about some Christmas Vibes? That’s the title of the new disc from vibraphonist Warren Wolf. “Do You Hear What I Hear?” is offset by the jaunty “O Christmas Tree” and “Winter Wonderland.” Most surprising (and enjoyable) is “Dance of the Sugarplum Fairies.” Great fun.

MELLOW CHRISTMAS He’s not the only pianist serving up some holiday music. Jim Brickman, whose catalog includes some 60 albums, offers another in his series of Soothe albums. Soothe Christmas is indeed a gentle reflection of the holiday. Favorites such as “Angels We Have Heard on High” and “Mary Did You Know” feature Brickman’s gentle piano, enhanced but never overwhelmed by ambient strings and synthesizers.

SOUTHERN STYLE Want some twang with your holiday eggnog? Janie Fricke’s Country Cowgirl Christmas (bonus points for alliteration) offers some standard holiday fare, from “Winter Wonderland” and “Let It Snow” to “Once in Royal David’s City.” Fricke’s warbly voice matches the dobro and steel guitar perfectly. Whether that’s a good thing or not depends on your appreciation for the style. Fricke’s not the only country crooner celebrating the season. A Holly Dolly Christmas, by Dolly Parton (who else?), opens with the almost-title track, including her spoken explanation for why she recorded it. Miley Cyrus joins in on “Christmas Is,” while superstar Michael Bublé duets on “Cuddle Up, Cozy Down Christmas.” A winner.

SYNTH STYLINGS Rick Wakeman — yes, the caped crusader himself — has released his second holiday collection in as many years. Christmas

CHRISTMAS RENAISSANCE (FROM A FORMER ROCKER) Ex-Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore has gone the acoustic/Renaissance

route since leaving the hard rock band he cofounded nearly 30 years ago. He’s teamed with his wife, Candice Night (vocals and woodwinds), for several Blackmore’s Night recordings and tours, including this year’s EP Here We Come A-Caroling. With recorders, tambourine, organ, and Blackmore’s guitars, the four traditional tunes receive a pretty traditional treatment, though “Silent Night” slyly ends with Blackmore’s short quote from “Jingle Bells.” ARTIST POTPOURRIS David Garfield’s Holidays Outside the Box features members of — deep breath — Chicago, Pablo Cruise, Santana, Tower of Power, Shadowfax, Average White Band, Brian Auger’s Oblivion Express, Yellowjackets, War, Jimmy Buffet’s Coral Reefer Band, Santana, Tom Petty’s Heartbreakers, and The Rippingtons. Whew! This digital release features the jazz keyboard veteran in a number of settings, all evoking the holiday spirit. There’s an island-themed “12 Days of Christmas” that would make Peter Tosh proud, a relaxed yet bouncy “O Holy Night,” and the gentle closing duet between Garfield and veteran jazz saxophonist Ernie Watts (a member of Doc Severinsen’s Tonight Show band) on “Heavenly Peace.” Helping the keyboardist out are vocalists singing in five languages, all making for a fun and festive holiday session. One of the most interesting recurring albums is from the organization Rock By The Sea. Based in Tallahassee, it has sponsored several events to raise money for causes ranging from literacy to the local humane society. It has also produced 11 CDs of holiday music by a potpourri of artists, with this year’s benefiting pediatric cancer. A Rock By The Sea Christmas: Volume 11 includes traditional songs (In the Bleak Midwinter, O Holy Night) and alternative favorites (“Christmas Wrapping,” “This Time of Year”). As is typical of such efforts, there’s not much flow, as a Celtic instrumental may be followed by a rock vocal and then a folk/ country style tune. Individually tracks are striking, and remember, it’s for the kids.

Bass virtuoso Brian Bromberg has done it all — pop, acoustic jazz, funk, fusion — you name it, he’s played it. So it’s no surprise he’s embraced the holiday aesthetic, particularly during the pandemic with live performances canceled. Pushed by his fiancée and her girlfriend to make a holiday album, he started with “Let It Snow,” and he had so much fun it led to the album. Celebrate Me Home: The Holiday Sessions features guests like vocalist Maysa, sax players Everette Harp and Gary Meek, percussionist Alex Acuna and longtime musical companion, Joe Taylor, on drums, who recorded their parts in their home studios. “Deck the Halls” is given a zesty big band treatment and a mashup of “Jingle Bells” and “Dreidel Dreidel Dreidel” goes calypso, complete with steel drums. Highly recommended. FROHE WEIHNACHTEN VON DEUTCHLAND Austrian singer Simone Kopmajer makes the holidays swing as well. No mean feat, when considering she also enlists accordion and dulcimer along with singing in German. She even makes “Es Wird Scho Glei Dumpa” attractive to American ears, which have no idea what she’s singing. A CAPELLA WONDERS Course, if you want to experience the Christmas magic of the human voice, there’s nothing better than the a capella sounds of Straight No Chaser. Social Christmasing is another winning outing for the nine singers who make up the group, which started as a college outfit at Indiana University. The group’s stirring harmonies reach out from the speakers on “Silver Bells, “The First Noel,” “Happy Holidays” and five original holiday tunes. Did someone say a capella? Let’s go back a year to one we missed. Christmas All The Way by the international vocal sextet Accent is not totally sans instruments, as is SNC. In fact, the group enlists Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band and a few other high-end instrumentalists such as trumpeter Arturo Sandoval. But the focus is squarely on the human voice, from “A Holly Jolly Christmas” to “Let It Snow,” “Petit Papa Noel” and “Jul, Jul, Stralande Jul.”

Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 27

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Drop Dud, Gorgeous

: I typically avoid conflict to keep from having ugly conversations. I’m in an unhappy relationship, and it’s clearly not fixable. I always rely on the other person to end a relationship, even when it’s making me really miserable. Why do I do this, and how do I change? — Stuck Girl

: Note that fighter planes have an “ejection seat” and not a “go down in a flaming wreck” seat.

Fighter plane seat design is a helpful model for relationships that have run their course. Facts don’t change because you refuse to acknowledge their existence. Your approach — which I’ll call “nonfrontational” — is particularly counterproductive. Clinical psychologist Randy Paterson calls this a “passive” style of responding to conflict, driven by a goal of avoiding conflict “at all costs.” In fact, what you end up avoiding is not conflict but temporary emotional turbulence — the queasyfraidyanxiousness — that would come with taking steps to resolve it. So, by avoiding conflict, you end up having much more conflict for a much longer stretch of time! But say you braved up this afternoon and told your boyfriend it’s over. It would feel miserable in the moment, and that misery would have plenty of company as you did all those fun breakup things like sawing the couch in half. But then you’d be out — instead of neck-deep in still miserable for another three months, or as long as it takes for your boyfriend to notice he’s had enough. Healthy assertiveness starts with telling yourself that you have a right to try to get your needs met. Feeling worthy might take some emotional renovation. If so, do get on that, either on your own or with a therapist. However, there’s a secret to asserting yourself, even as a person who’s long avoided it. You don’t have to feel worthy or even comfortable in order to do it. Admit that it’ll feel scary, totally foreign, and generally like a big pile of suck to assert yourself — and then do it anyway.

Lori B. Schmeltzer | www.tcdivorcelawyer.com Divorce and Family Law 231-642-5225 Call Today for a Free Consultation

28 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly

You might also apply this to other areas of your life, from friendships to work. When a situation you’re in becomes irreparably toxic and awful, there’s a reasonable thing to do, and it isn’t staying in it and having the cat join you once a week in a small private funeral for your enthusiasm.”

BY Amy Alkon

Drop Fate Club

: I’m a woman in my early 30s. I grew up on a steady diet of romance novels, and I keep longing for the true “soul mate” love from my fictional world. No guy ever seems right, so I never feel that yearning, intense desire, and connectivity I’ve been searching for. I feel more of those emotions reading romance novels than I ever did with any boyfriend. Do you believe each person has a “true love”? Am I too much of a romantic? — Lonely Dreamer

: So, going by the romance novel standard, you’re just looking for that handsome, rapey, billionaire sociopath who follows you around like a puppy. Unfortunately, a belief in “soul mates” is about as realistic. Each of us supposedly has our one and only perfect romantic match. Naturally, this person is conveniently located and culturally in lockstep and is never, say, a nomadic desert goatherd who thinks his life will finally be perfect if only he turns you into wife number eight. A person who believes in soul mates has a “destiny theory” of love, explains social psychologist C. Raymond Knee. They think two people are either fated to be together or they’re not; whether a relationship is good or bad is beyond their control. They can be quick to give the boot to “less-thanperfect candidates” and to see any conflict as a sign a relationship should be abandoned as “just another distraction in the search for perfection.” (I think he left out the word “endless.”) Back here in reality, all humans are fallible, and being two different people (who are not dead) often means wanting conflicting things. People who understand this have a “growth” or “workit-out” theory of love. They believe a happy, satisfying relationship doesn’t just happen. It takes work. It’s something two people create through what Knee describes as a paired process of “conquering obstacles and growing closer.” Probably the best anyone can do in seeking a partner is figure out their personal must-haves (physically, emotionally, ethically, and any other essential “ly”s) and then find somebody with enough of them to make it worth working to build something together. Realistically, maybe your soulmate is that Mr. Wonderful who finds you beautiful while you’re drooling into your pillow -- who you can sometimes hear from the next room chewing like something that eats hay out of a bucket. (All you need is not love but a pillow to smother him with and the wisdom to instead use it to stifle your screams.)

lOGY

DEC 21 - JAN 03 BY ROB BREZSNY

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The birds known as red knots breed every year in the Arctic regions. Then they fly south—way south—down to the southern edge of South America, more than 9,000 miles away. A few months later they make the return trip to the far north. In 1995, ornithologists managed to put a monitoring band on one red knot's leg, making it possible to periodically get a read on his adventures over the subsequent years. The bird's nickname is Moonbird, because he has traveled so many miles in the course of his life that it's equivalent to a jaunt to the moon. He's known as "the toughest four ounces on the planet." I nominate him to be your magical creature in 2021. I suspect you will have stamina, hardiness, persistence, and determination like his..

ScORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Until 1893,

Hawaii was a sovereign nation. In January of that year, a group of wealthy foreigners, mostly Americans, overthrew the existing government with the help of the US military. They established a fake temporary "republic" that excluded native Hawaiians from positions of power. Their goal, which was to be annexed by the United States, was fulfilled in July 1898. I propose that you use this sad series of events as a motivational story in 2021. Make it your goal to resist all efforts to be colonized and occupied. Commit yourself passionately to preserving your sovereignty and independence. Be a tower of power that can't be owned.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) In 2021, you may be smarter than you have ever been. Not necessarily wiser, too, although I have reason to hope that you will leverage your smartness to also deepen your wisdom. But as I was saying, your intelligence could very well soar beyond its previous heights. Your ability to speak articulately, stir up original thoughts, and solve knotty riddles should be at a peak. Is there any potential downside to this outbreak of brilliance? Only one that I can imagine: It's possible that your brain will be working with such dominant efficiency that it will drown out messages from your heart. And that would be a shame. In order to do what I referred to earlier— leverage your smartness to deepen your wisdom—you'll need to be receptive to your heart's messages

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Ark Encounter

is a fundamentalist Christian theme park in Kentucky. Its main attraction is a giant replica of Noah's Ark. Constructed mostly from spruce and pine trees, it's one of the world's largest wooden structures. Even though I don't believe that there was in fact such a boat in ancient times, I do admire how its builder, Ken Ham, has been so fiercely devoted to making his fantasies real. I encourage you to cultivate an equally zealous commitment to manifesting your own visions and dreams in 2021.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): From 1961

until 1989, a concrete barrier divided the city of Berlin. Communist East Berlin lay on the east side of the Berlin Wall, and capitalist West Berlin on the west. It was an iconic symbol of the Cold War between the US and Soviet Union. More than 100,000 people tried to escape from east to west, but just 5,000 succeeded. The standoff ended in 1989, during the peaceful revolutions that swept through Eastern Europe. In subsequent months, the Berlin Wall was slowly demolished. Today, tiny fragments of the wall are marketed as medicines for asthma, headaches, narcolepsy, and ulcers. Now I will propose that in 2021, you adopt the demolished Berlin Wall as your metaphor of power. May it inspire you to be gleeful and forceful as you dismantle psychological obstacles and impediments.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): The year 2021 AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): An Aquarian

park ranger named Roy Sullivan was struck by lightning seven times in the course of his 71 years on the planet. (That's a world record.) None of the electrostatic surges killed him, although they did leave a few burns. After studying your astrological potentials for 2021, I've concluded that you may be the recipient, on a regular basis, of a much more pleasurable and rewarding kind of lightning strike: the metaphorical kind. I advise you to prepare yourself to be alert for more epiphanies than usual: exciting insights, inspiring revelations, and useful ideas.

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): Coral reefs are

in danger all over the world. These "rainforests of the sea" are being decimated by ocean acidification, toxic runoff from rivers, rising temperatures, and careless tourists. Why should we care? Because they're beautiful! And also because they're hotbeds of biodiversity, providing homes for 25 percent of all marine species. They also furnish protection for shorelines from erosion and storm damage, and are prime spots to harvest seafood. So I'm pleased people are finding ways to help reefs survive and recover. For example, a group in Thailand is having success using superglue to re-attach broken-off pieces to the main reefs. I hope this vignette inspires you to engage in metaphorically similar restorative and rejuvenating activities, Pisces. In 2021, you will have an enhanced power to heal.

will contain 525,600 minutes. But I suspect you might enjoy the subjective sensation of having far more than 525,600 minutes at your disposal. That's because I think you'll be living a fuller life than usual, with greater intensity and more focus. It may sometimes seem to you as if you are drawing greater riches out of the daily rhythm—accomplishing more, seeing further, diving down deeper to capitalize on the privilege of being here on planet earth. Be grateful for this blessing—which is also a big responsibility!

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Our lives are filled with

puzzles and enigmas and riddles. We all harbor aspects of ourselves that we don't understand. I hope that in 2021, you will be on a mission to learn more about these parts of yourself. One of your superpowers will be a capacity to uncover secrets and solve mysteries. Bonus: I suspect you'll be able to make exceptional progress in getting to the root of confusing quandaries that have undermined you—and then fixing the problems so they no longer undermine you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): When actor Gene

Wilder was eight years old, his mother began to have heart-related health issues. The doctor that treated her suggested he could help her out if he would try to make her laugh. From then on, Wilder cultivated an ability to tell jokes and got interested in becoming an actor. Ultimately he appeared in 22 films and was nominated for two Oscars and two Golden Globe Awards. I foresee a comparable development in your life in 2021: A challenging situation will inspire you in ways that generate a major blessing.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Your capacity

for pioneering feats and impressive accomplishments will be at a peak in 2021. So you could become the best human ever at balancing a ladder on your chin or typing with your nose or running long-distance while holding an egg on a spoon with your mouth. But I'd prefer it if you channeled your triumphal energy into more useful innovations and victories. How about making dramatic strides in fulfilling your most important goal? Or ascending to an unprecedented new level of inspiring people with your passionate idealism? Or setting a record for most illusions shed?

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): When actor Gene

“Jonesin” Crosswords "J'Accuse!" --they're in there. by Matt Jones

ACROSS 1 Sluggish 5 Arm gesture done by kids graduating elementary school 8 Hosts in one's apartment (remember that?) 13 The A in A.D. 14 Public radio host Glass 15 Early online newsgroup system 17 "The Caine Mutiny" novelist 18 ___ squared (circle formula) 19 Act as a go-between 20 Bygone laptop company's fiscal year division? 23 "Bleh!" 25 "As Seen on TV" knife brand 26 Dinnerware collections 27 "Batman Forever" actor Kilmer 28 "Messenger" material 29 Talent for detail, maybe 32 "Call Me Maybe" singer Carly ___ Jepsen 33 General ballpark 35 It may be educated 37 "How does a company reserve a symbol to trade?" and "How does it differ from NYSE?" 44 Photographer Diane 45 Button alternative 46 Greek M's 49 Long-running forensic drama with an upcoming reboot 50 Mineral spring 53 Airport posting 54 Catchall abbrs. 56 Largest moon of Saturn 58 Particle accelerator particle 59 "Me shooting 40% at the foul line is just God's way to say nobody's perfect," for instance? 63 Playwright Beckett 64 Suffix for Gator or Power 65 Idaho neighbor 68 Midway through a migraine, e.g. 69 "In the Heights" Tony winner ___-Manuel Miranda 70 Adult ___ (Cartoon Network offshoot) 71 Leg bone (connected to the arm bone?) 72 China's Sun ___-sen 73 Male cats

DOWN 1 Ocelot foot 2 See 4-Down 3 Sonic the Hedgehog's echidna friend 4 With 2-Down, interviewee for John Lennon retrospectives 5 ___ Dots (cryogenic ice cream brand) 6 "thank u, next" singer Grande 7 Hires competitor 8 Platform for the "Animaniacs" reboot 9 Bhutan's continent 10 Retailer that filed for bankruptcy in 2018 11 No divider, they 12 Spanish currency pre-euro 16 Briefly stated 21 Ball club VIP 22 Leicester lineup 23 "Kindergarten Cop" director Reitman 24 Model/actor Delevingne 30 "For real?" response 31 ME zone, in winter 34 Holly Hunter, in "The Piano" 35 Astronaut Grissom 36 "Pretty sneaky, ___" (Connect Four ad line) 38 Storyline progression 39 Many Super Bowl MVPs 40 Capital at over 9,000 feet 41 Like 50/50 odds 42 Alphabet where X is "X-ray" 43 Bridge section 46 Argentine soccer superstar Lionel 47 1960s United Nations secretary general 48 Dish prepared with garlic butter and white wine 50 Google gaming service as of 2019 51 Inventor's concern 52 "Allergic to Water" singer DiFranco 55 Fledgling pigeon 57 Rome home 60 Royally named liner, briefly 61 Arm bone (connected to the leg bone?) 62 Force to leave 66 Objective 67 Letters on British battleships

Northern Express Weekly • december 21/28, 2020 • 29

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• JU n e 11 Northern Express Weekly • oct 19, W EE K LY • 17 IG A N ’S2020 ER N M IC H

EatE VisitriEs ed

N OR TH

, 20 18

Mike Annelin

Enthusiastic & Experienced

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

L SA

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

L SA

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

L SA

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

0.72 acres, corner of Carver & Hastings Zoned industrial, empty lot $850,000 MLS#1882613

ING

D EN

DIN

N PE

L SA

DIN

N PE

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

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

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

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

DIN

N PE

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

Northern Express Weekly â€˘ december 21/28, 2020 â€˘ 31

32 • december 21/28, 2020 • Northern Express Weekly