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By Jeff Milo | Photograph by Giancarlo DiPonio

This isn’t your “down-on-the-farm” folk music. Woven Tangles’ acoustic-centric songwriting may come with the slight- twanged warbles and sepia-toned charms of rootsy Americana, but it was forged in Detroit, and it’s got a bit more grit than your typical troubadour’s strummy sing-alongs, especially after adding electric guitar and drums to the mix.

Woven, as the name suggests, are the complimentary voices of Holly Millea and Kevin Kline. Both have similarly stunning, soft- hued, dulcet-toned singing voices, and it’s almost eerie how smoothly they merge.

“Of all the things you can do musically,” said Kline, “there’s just something about harmonizing with another person that is very special.”

Understandably, these closely woven harmonies manifest a certain intimacy. “When I sing harmonies with someone,” said Millea, “I look them in the eye as I sing with them. You can probably look like you’re in love with whoever you’re on stage with and you probably are, at least during that song…”

Kline interjects, “I feel like if I do too much of that eye contact (with Holly) it can kill my game at the end of every show. No girl will talk to me after.” The couple, longtime friends

and collaborators, share a knowing laugh at this. “Of course, guys will push over me to go talk to Holly, though.”

The pair started writing songs together a few years earlier when they met inside a circle of creative friends. Woven Tangles was formed around mid-2013. Their debut album Lumber Jackson was released in December 2013 on Funky D Records.

Millea and Kline’s chemistry struck off of shared sensibilities for pastoral folk singers from the late 60’s and early 70’s. Think Paul Simon, Nick Drake, or The Beatles. In fact, these two 20-somethings are influenced by “Almost anything from the ‘Boomer generation” of music; both the unique harmonies of those songwriters, and also their profound lyrics.

For more contemporary influences, the lifelong musicians drop names like Iron & Wine, Local Natives and the British-based trio alt-J. If you’re noticing the trend, you won’t be surprised to learn that each of these groups give particular emphasis to vocal melody.

“I look at that past generation and, of course, the use of harmony stands out. But, they were also masters of analog recording, just extremely proficient at their instruments and vocal technique. There’s something romantic about that period, less distractions mostly. People and musicians seemed more engaged, politically. I think we emulate the romantic aspects of that period.”

Their name, says Millea, references “the organized chaos that drives the world as well as music. We liked the word ‘woven’ because it’s a good way to picture the purposeful harmonies and then ‘tangles’ because, well, maybe we appreciate ironic paradoxes.” She then adds, with a chuckle, “Plus, I was crocheting a lot at the time we were coming up with names.”

For Lumber Jack’s release concert, drummer Maxwell Sullivan, bassist Colin Stanley, guitarist Sarah Rez and bassist Giancarlo DiPonio joined to flesh out each song, with Millea on vocals/banjo and Kline on vocals/guitar and electric guitar.

“It’s been an awesome journey,” Kline reflects, “and we’ve been able to play a lot (of shows) and learn a lot (in the studio) and explore a lot more dynamically, with more people involved.”

“My vision, when we first started,” said Millea, “was a folk band. You hear violin and banjo on our first album.” But each player brought their own flavors, be it rock or dubstep, even.

“And it became a plethora of interesting combinations. We call it ‘Detroit Folk.’ Kinda takes the audience for a ride, with our different influences and Holly and I being unique songwriters. Certainly nothing you’d expect from a ‘folk band.’”

“The best music can’t be put into one box, anyway,” said Millea.

Woven Tangles entered the studio at the end of January to record their second album. For information on their upcoming local concerts, visit: facebook.com/woventangles.

To sample Lumber Jackson, Woven Tangles’ first album, log on to: http://woventangles.bandcamp.com

If something happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you have to look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction switch on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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By Derek Lindamood

CARA TRAUTMAN ISN’T an angel. She just played one on stage. The lead actor in Angels in America, which finished its run at the Ringwald Theater in Ferndale, Trautman admits it was a more serious role than she’s accustomed to, although drama roles are growing on her. In addition to her work at the Ringwald, she performs and teaches improv comedy at Ferndale’s Go Comedy and Planet Ant in Hamtramck. She’s also an author, just having self-published her first novel, Happy’ish. She’s finished a children’s book, and is already working on another novel. She co-founded Detroit Card Company, writing cards for all occasions while a friend illustrates, and they just had their first major sale. She does all of this while maintaining a nine-to-five job at her father’s architecture firm.

I first saw Cara perform with long-time friend Lauren Bickers as Dubalicious at the Ringwald during an improv comedy festival over the summer. What separated their troupe from the others is the fact that Dubaclicious only had two members, while the other troupes each had six. “With only two people, there’s no time to stop and think—you just have to act”, Cara said. “You don’t have a moment to second guess yourself, or stop to think if something is funny or not. You’re totally in the moment.”

Cara first started her improv career at Second City in Detroit in 2000, where she first met improv partner Lauren, and they acted as understudies for the main ensemble. They also worked at the Improv Inferno in Ann Arbor, and have been performing at Go Comedy in Ferndale since it opened in 2008.

I asked Cara what percentage of the improv characters we see on stage are completely made up on the spot, and how many have shown up in previous shows, practices, or are based on charismatic people she’s met in real life.

“None, never, they’re all made up. Sometimes I’ll choose an emotion for a scene. This is what I’m teaching right now. I’m going to be angry in this scene, I don’t know what’s going to happen, but let’s see where this goes. If (you try to plan) something, it doesn’t usually work. All good humor is organic. Being in the moment is key.”

IF YOU’RE INTERESTED in trying your hand at improv comedy acting, you can take six to eight weeks of classes along with other beginners. “They have a great training center and we have a lot of students. We get engineers, moms, all kinds of different people. The majority are not actors, or even plan on acting. Even if they’re nervous, it feeds into their performance and it’s really enjoyable to watch. It’s a great, creative, and supportive environment. I learn from watching them and becoming part of the beginning process again.”

Cara’s recently released a book, Happy’ish, which is a new medium for her. Citing her literary influences as Jhumpa Lahiri, Barbara Kingsolver, Alexander McCall Smith, Elizabeth Gilbert, and Dave Eggers, she describes the plot of her first book as “A funny story about an awkwardly cool woman trying to find happiness and maybe even love in Ferndale, Michigan”, and it is only partially based on her. She brings her improv attitude to writing as well. “I develop these characters and see what happens. A fairly normal, grounded woman, surrounded by weirdos, just living. That’s the whole happy’ish thing. She doesn’t have it all together.” She’s already finished a children’s book, and she’s currently working on her second novel, which is set in Frankenmuth.

If you are interested in learning more about Cara, reading her book, or asking her questions about for her improv classes, she can be contacted at: caratrautman@wordpress.com

Happy’ish is available at Amazon. com

If some happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states coupled to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most vital aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile disfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this curing passes into breast milk.

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Story and photos by Jeff Lilly

Patrick Dengate is Michigan born and raised, but he’s chosen the entire world for his palette.

“I’m inspired by nature, and influenced by my travels.” Dengate says, on a sunny morning the day after the big snowstorm. We’re standing in the gallery attached to Level One Bank on Woodward, looking over a collection of the Ferndale-based artist’s recent work, rendered in a style heavily influenced by cubism, awash with stunning, fetching color combinations.

I stand before one painting, my eyes tracking this way and that over a collection of slashing lines, orderly circles and wedges, in shades of silver and blue. My eye wanders up to the top, and I suddenly recognize the sweep of a knight’s helmet. Now the rest of the picture comes together. A gauntlet here, greaves there. I look to the tag, find that this one was born close to home, in the armor collection from the DIA.

Moving along the other paintings, we take a trip around the world. A series from Costa Rica swims in the vibrant colors of that land; white houses with red roofs near a tranquil bay, the hard geometry of the houses dancing with the round shapes of trees. A pair of scarlet macaws emerge whole from a shattered cubist mirror of jungle colors. In the next section, there are the more subdued earthy hues of the southwestern U.S. deserts, one of Dengate’s favorite subjects. The largest canvas is a stunning study of Notre Dame Cathedral at night. Boats, petroglyphs, lily pads, fossils at a museum, all have their turn. One of my favorites is a study of New York Harbor; the lines of a ship emerge from the geometric noise as gray blocks of skyscrapers and swooping lines of suspension bridge cables soar overhead. These are works made for study, for contemplation, not just pretty things to hang on your wall.

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“I’ve been drawing since I was a little kid.” Dengate recalls. “Obsessively, in fact. When I was in kindergarten, they sometimes had to take away my crayons and pencils so I’d pay attention.” He continued with his obsession, until one day, in a college physics class, while he sat drawing on his paper, “I decided that was it. I was going to study art.” He transferred to Wayne State and got a BFA in fine arts. We talk a bit about influences. Besides inspiration from artists of the early 20th Century, especially Lyonel Feininger and Franz

Marc, “My most influential mentors at Wayne State were Douglas Semivan, James Nawara, and Stanley Rosenthal.”

After graduation, Dengate spent fifteen years specializing in woodcuts, until pain and stiffness in his arm and hand forced him to try “something less strenuous.” He switched to painting, working in a realistic style for several years before moving into cubism.

“The earliest cubists had a specific, formulaic way of working.” Dengate says. “I don’t. For me, this style is about freeing myself with color, dealing with form and composition in a less traditional way.”

So what’s next? Dengate smiles wryly. “Sometimes, I want to quit art and become a boat builder.” He actually has built a couple of boats, he says, as well as finding time to make music, playing the banjo and guitar. He admits that he doesn’t have any big plans, but is at a point in his life where he is reassessing where he’s at, while continuing to explore and see where the moment takes him. He’s pleased with his most recent series, where he uses motifs from related artifacts as references and interprets them into “collages” on canvas. He shows me one in the current exhibition that’s composed of designs from Polynesian art he photographed at the Field Museum in Chicago. He’s got a work on the easel at home that will feature medieval European objects and motifs.

“We’re all making things… knitting, baking, art.” Dengate says. “It’s what it means to be human.” Patrick Dengate is very happy to be making his art, and sharing it with an audience. Just don’t anyone dare try to take his crayons away.

Patrick Dengate’s works will be on display at the gallery in Level One Bank from now until February 22. Level One Bank is located at 22635 Woodward Avenue. The Gallery is open during bank hours, Monday thru Thursday 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

Visit the artist’s website at www.patrickdengate.com

If some happened with our heartiness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you should look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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Story by Davis Wesley | Photos courtesy of FIP

As Ferndale Independent Percussion (FIP) stomps into its second season, the world of competitive drumming is taking serious note. In their inaugural 2013 season, FIP won silver medals at MCGC State Championships in the Independent “A” Class, a feat not easily achieved in the world of competitive music. Now in their second year, they have breathed some new life into Ferndale High’s music ensemble and will likely roll their beats to a gold medal at the MCGC State Championships in the near future.

Currently their new competitive winter percussion program aims to educate students from ages 13-20 in the percussive arts. They are eagerly seeking out students whose schools do not already have a winter program, and strive to offer quality instruction at an affordable price. The Ferndale Independent Percussion director, Daniel Chunn, spoke to Ferndale Friends about the semantics of the program, its future, and the students involved with this now award-winning drumline.

Ferndale Friends: How was the FIP formed?

Daniel Chunn: Ferndale Independent Percussion began in November of 2013. I went to Ferndale High School and graduated in 2007. At the time, I had marched two seasons of winter drumline at Ferndale High School, and when that group disbanded I joined Farmington United Percussion Ensemble for two years. After that, I joined the Marine Corps and came back four years later to find that there were no more afford- able options in the area for students from Ferndale to pursue. The three closest groups cost between $700 and $1,200 to march with.

The activity was getting more expensive and, as a result, very few Ferndale stud- ents were able to seek this type of comp- etitive drumming outside of marching band.

I spoke to a few of my friends in the drumming community to see if they would

be interested, and after getting a positive vibe, I started to lay the logistical ground work to put it together. The hardest thing with Ferndale Independent Percussion is that we are an independent organization. We do not get funding from any of the school districts we have students from, and we must raise our own money through fundraisers, membership fees, and donations. We do get a considerable amount of support from Ferndale Public Schools, and Ferndale Schools Fine Arts Boosters, in terms of practice facilities and logistical support.

FF: How has FIP changed the musical landscape at Ferndale High?

DC: Ferndale Public Schools has an amazing music program. Our ensemble is unique because it is open to anyone under the age of 22 and over 13. We current- ly have students from 18 different schools. Some drive from as far as Williamston (just outside of Lansing) and Port Huron, and as close as Hazel Park, Berkley, and Chippewa Valley.

FF: What are future plans for FIP in the world of competitive percussion?

DC: Last year we were met with early success. Our goal was to simply have fun and to provide the same type of atmosphere myself and my staff feel in love with. Winning second place at the State Championship Finals greatly exceeded our expectations, and as a result, we hope to build on that success. We will be competing in WGI (Winter Guard International), which is the national circuit. We will attend the WGI World Championships in Dayton, Ohio in early April, and hope to make the finals our first year out, which is rare, considering the amount of competition.

Q. What separates FIP drummers from other drummers not in the program?

A. Our students rehearse long hours, and are held to a much higher standard than a lot of other groups in “A” class. Personal responsibility is urged on a regular basis. Not only are they pushed to succeed in their personal goals, but reminded that there are 36 other members counting on them as well. They are constantly encouraged to take ownership of their show, because they are the ones performing it, and must be proud of their product.

Check out Ferndale Independent Percussion on Facebook: www.facebook.com/FerndaleIndPerc

If some happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a preparation. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states coupled to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What humanity talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you have to look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile disfunction can be the symptom a strong heartiness problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction switch on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a state called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this curing passes into breast milk.

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The Ringwald Theater, located just south of Nine Mile on the East side of Woodward next to Dino’s, is a live entertainment theater that opened its doors in 2007. The theater naturally aims not only to entertain audiences, but to challenge. The Ringwald goes further by proclaiming to “blur the lines between race, income, religion, and sexuality,” while providing a creative environment for local artists and aspiring actors—and recently, also providing a venue for artists all around the U.S.

The Ringwald recently anchored The Detroit Improv Festival from August 3-10, providing a place for performance artists from both near and far to showcase their skills. Individuals and improv groups from a number of cities around the U.S. performed, as groups arrived from Chicago, St. Louis, Toronto, L.A., Vancouver, NY and a host of other areas. I attended a show at the Ringwald during this festival and, while all the troops had their unique styles, I was most impressed by Ferndale’s own Dubalicious. This act was particularly impressive because instead of the usual six performers—there were only two. The female duo kept the ball in the air throughout their entire 35-minute skit without a break, showcasing their combined experience by personifying dozens of hilarious and awkward characters in everyday situations, while brilliantly playing off each other and expanding the boundaries of improv comedy.

At the end of September, I stopped by The Ringwald to take in “Angels in America Part II.” It proved to be more of an experience than a play, compounded by the fact that I had not attended Part I. Leaving no cultural taboo or sociopolitical stone unturned, the characters dramatically exemplified, personified, and blasted away at every dogma, conventional viewpoint and ideology under the sun. The play was full of complex characters, all ceaselessly struggling to find meaning and purpose, while reflecting on their own situation and it’s relation to a society they cannot concretely explain.

The play began with an intense and provoking speech from “the oldest living Bolshevik” in 1985, during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, who asked questions such as “What is progress?” and, further, “Is it worth it?” Mentioning market incentives and the McDonalds hamburgers begotten by these markets, the age-old Marxist question remains: Isn’t there something more? And can we, as a people, reach it? The Bolshevik concludes, “If the snake sheds his skin before a new skin is ready, naked he will be in the world, prey to the forces of chaos. Have you, my little serpents, a new skin?

The play centers around characters with HIV/AIDS during the highpoint of the crisis during the mid-1980’s, and closet homosexuality. The characters’

relationships with one another are complexly and dialectically intertwined, while one AIDS victim is dying, another is being visited by a multi-phallic, hermaphrodite-equipped angel, and another- a Conservative Homosexual Mormon Lawyer- is leaving his wife for a man, which is sending his wife into an emotional spiral leading to breakdown.

Regarding the idea(s) that provided the backbone of the play, theater Director Joe Bailey said, “An idea was born here that never really took hold and/or flushed itself out. America is like a melting pot that never melted.” Throughout the play, characters took as many cracks at every aspect and fringe of our culture and country as was humanly possible during the three-and-a-half-hour drama – libertarians, social democrats, communists, conservatives, Mormons and other religions, blacks, whites, homosexuals, Reagan — all were challenged as each individual character struggled with his and her own issues in relation to the narrative of the American Idea. Memorable one-liners were sown throughout the entirety of the play, as the African American character memorably proclaimed, “The cracker that wrote the national anthem wrote the note to ‘Free’ so high that nobody could ever reach it – that was deliberate.” Other noteworthy lines aimed at our present societal currents hit home: “Lawyers are the high priests of America. Hire a lawyer, sue someone – it’s good for your soul.” “Angels in America” is full of insight into the past and present-day, and showcases a cognitive dissonance within each character that may be inherent and ingrained into our adolescent and still-developing culture. The same character, confined to a hospital bed and dying, proclaimed “America has no use for the sick. America is no place for the infirm,” while also making affirming statements, such as “What you love will take you places you never dreamed you’d go,” while carrying a noble love of justice, saying “I save my hate for what counts,” conjuring hope and harnessing the modern-traditional American Spirit of “making it.”

The Ringwald put on a show that was intelligently chaotic, full of fire (and some nudity), in-your-face and one of a kind. Love it or reject it – the experience will be unforgettable. The actresses and actors hit every line flawlessly, the stage set was professionally-crafted and easily transformed to new backdrops after each scene. If you’d like to see some live entertainment that will provide intellectual stimulation akin to drinking water from a fire hose, head to The Ringwald.

For more information, please visit: www.theringwald.com/current

If slightly happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you should look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong heartiness problem such as soul trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a state called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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Ferndale Friends: With Improv Comedy and The Ringwald, both at the center of the recent Detroit Improv Festival, it seems live comedy and entertainment is gaining in popularity—and fast. What is it about the current generation that’s driving the success and resurgence of live entertainment, and how does live entertainment tie into the popular culture we see around us: DIY, bicycling to work, the re-development of urban areas, making creative and better use of smaller spaces, etc. Is there a connection?

Joe Bailey: I think people are always looking for different types of things to do. We are fortunate to be in a city of folks that really embrace this philosophy. With the numerous street fairs and alternative stores and restaurants in the area, I think it’s a good and natural fit for us to be where we are. When Go Comedy opened about a year after we did, it was nice to have another performance space in Ferndale and we quickly became great friends and colleagues with those folks and treasure our relationship with them.

Jamie Warrow: I cannot speak to just comedy performance, (and especially I cannot address improv as a medium – because it is a whole other animal), but as for live theater like what we do at the Ringwald, I believe that live performance is an immediate challenge to the audience spiritually, intellectually and emotionally. It forces them to participate on multiple human levels, to be present in the moment and pay attention. Thus, I think the immediacy of live performance is becoming more attractive/popular because the current generation wants to be involved, is more “hand on” and wants to see the nuts and bolts of art.

FF: On your website, it states the goal of your venue is to challenge and entertain, and that the Ringwald “blurs the lines between race, income, religion, and sexuality.” Just what is it about audience members that you want to challenge specifically, and could you give an example and/or provide more explanation of what you mean by “blurring the lines…”

Bailey: For me personally, I like to offer different takes on things. Whether it’s the type of show we do, or if we have a guy in a dress, or do a show reverse-gender, I like for people to potentially see something that they’ve never seen before or think in a way they’ve not done.

Warrow: I believe that presenting diverse views broadens human understanding and empathy. It’s important to view the human experience from a perspective that is not necessarily an instinctive one.

FF: In comparison to other live entertainment venues: Mark Ridley (Royal Oak), Go Comedy (Ferndale), Planet Ant (Hamtramck), what is the defining characteristic that distinguishes The Ringwald from the other theaters and makes it a unique place to take in live entertainment?

Bailey: Every theater has it’s niche and what they’re known for. I suppose over the years, we’ve primarily come to be known as “the gay theater.” It’s an easy identifier, but not wholly accurate. I like that we take risks and challenge ourselves to do shows that don’t necessarily make sense for us to do – whether due to size of the show or subject matter – and then we work really hard to make sure it’s the best product that we can make it.

Warrow: We are not the gay theater. We are Unpredictable theater. Eclectic, smart and funny, fearless, and dangerous.

If slightly happened with our heartiness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states coupled to erectile malfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What folk talk about “viagra stories“? The most essential aspect you should look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction switch on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this treatment passes into breast milk.

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y Andrea Grimaldi | Photos by Garnette Archer and Chris Allen

Jo’s Gallery has been a Detroit art scene staple for three decades. Founder Jo Griffin was an avid art collector who filled her home with art. After selling a few personal pieces, she decided to open a shop in Trappers Alley. The shop specialized in African American contemporary art and featured custom framing. After the casino took over the original location, Jo’s Gallery found its permanent home off Livernois Avenue.

Jo passed away three years ago, leaving the gallery to her daughter Garnette Archer. Garnette wanted to continue Jo’s legacy and kept the gallery open. Today, Jo’s features a lot of modern and abstract art along with art in different forms; unique handmade jewelry, home décor, and gifts are also featured in the gallery.

The gallery also offers customized framing by Chris Allen. Customized framing is an art in itself. In addition to paintings or prints, Chris has framed dresses, jerseys, guitar strings, and model trains for clients. His unique talent will give any art or memorabilia the star treatment on your wall.

Jo’s Gallery puts an emphasis on local artists. Jewelry maker Lanette Gibson has many pieces in the gallery. Contemporary urban artist Eric Pasha will be featured in the gallery in the coming weeks, displaying his one-of-a-kind fine art pieces. His unique works range from abstract to portraiture and his style captures the social feeling of a big city.

In addition to artist spotlights, Jo’s Gallery runs a number of exciting specials. Every Tuesday they have a Blow Out Sale where everything, including framing, gifts, and prints, are hugely marked down. They have business card raffles for artwork. With new gorgeous art on display and a variety of gifts, Jo’s Gallery is a great place to visit while holiday shopping.

Jo’s Gallery is located at 19376 Livernois in Detroit, about half a mile south of 8 Mile near the corner of Outer Drive. Phone (313) 864-1401 for more information, or find Jo’s Gallery on Facebook.

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a preparation. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual malfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a status called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this treatment passes into breast milk.

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by Jeff Milo

No more clichés, no more cynicism. Rock’s not dead. Never was. The Beggars are here to save the day. Rock’s redeemers, Steven Tuthill, Jim Faulkner, Pookie Grech and Chris Krez, each understand that rock n’ roll can be more than just music, it can be something to live for…

And don’t you dare doubt their powers. Attendees of Beggars concerts are often quickly converted by their charms: a combination of the wild and the raucous with the wholesome and the nostalgic; it’s head-banging, fist-pumping, guitar-shredding, ballad-belting music, but it’s done with this charismatic grin and studded with a classy (if half-crazed) showmanship that conjures the most glorious of rock’s glory days.

Last month, the Ferndale quartet released their second full-length record, a self-titled album produced by a powerhouse team, Eddie Spaghetti (of Arizona garage rock legends The Supersuckers,) Andy Patalan (guitarist of Detroit-bred alt-rock group Sponge) and local producer Tony Maisano.

The album is their most definitive work to date, with the versatile Faulkner’s driving backbeats, the dynamics of Krez’s cascading riffs, and Grech’s subtle coiling bass licks. It’s a rock that has a lot of heart and gets a floor shaking, rattles windows and brings bodies to move, dance or jump, spurred on by Tuthill’s trilling baritone lead vocal.

“Genuine rock and roll,” Tuthill calls it; “…the Good-Time Rock.”

That means drums that get you moving, blurring guitars bellowing those electric growls and bass that sweetens with a soulful crest. Tuthill, meanwhile, a former football player and wrestler, is keen to throw his whole body into his performance and that’s key to the infectious energy of the Beggars, assuming a larger-than-life presence on stage, ready to back flip off of turnbuckles, if they could. When rock n’ roll can seem heroic, like its participants, the performers on the stage evidently appreciate that certain kind of caution-to- the-wind sacredness that rock deserves. That’s when you know you’re at a Beggars show.

“We’re normal guys, most of the time,” Tuthill says, as he digs a Frisbee out of the bed of his truck. “But, when you get on that stage,” he stops to set his coffee down at the foot of an oak tree, “then it’s no time to be normal. At that point it’s like…” he tosses the Frisbee over to me, “…like you’re from a different planet, ya’ know?”

He nods, his long curled hair blown back by the late autumn breeze. “Not a better planet! Just…a different planet. It is a lot of fun.”

Tuthill meets me on the last beautiful day of the season, strolling through Geary Park in Ferndale on a weekday morning. “I couldn’t find my football,” he admits. “That’s like a low point, for me. I have to use my Frisbee…”

The Beggars have been a Ferndale band for a long time now. Tuthill’s second show with the band was performed at Club Bart’s (where John D now operates.) “I always love bringing up Club Bart’s cuz I have such fond memories of that bar, so many great shows, particularly with Duende.”

Indeed, Tuthill, and the entire Beggars alumni go way back… The band was started in the early 00’s by Jonny Wilkins, Jim Hansard, Joe Senac, Jon Epstein and Keith Thompson. That’s right, the current line-up of the Beggars technically has no original members. To his credit, though, Tuthill, the longest-serving Beggar, joined the band ten years ago. The album’s liner notes give respectful shout-outs to all former members, including Johnny Miller, Jim Hansard, Jeremy Cybulski and Rod “Pool Party” Jones.

“Awesome dudes all across the board,” says Tuthill with his characteristically easygoing exuberance. “And everyone still gets along great. All classy dudes, from start to finish Everybody’s still a family, it’s good. And that’s rare (for bands).” I can see a glint of contented nostalgia in his eyes as he pauses, “Man,” he says, “it’s been nuts, all of the great venues we’ve played at through the years. The Majestic, The Magic Stick, The Magic Bag…aWoodwardDreamCruisePartybackin2002, aHomecomingDanceorona Pontoon boat, or the Pig & Whiskey and DIY…”

“We plan to rock from here to eternity,” Tuthill assures us.

The Beggars perform on New Year’s Eve at The Loving Touch with Broadzilla and White Shag. Doors 8pm – more info at: http://beggarsrock.com/ / http://thelovingtouchferndale.com/

If something happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men talk about “viagra stories“? The most essential aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual malfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a state called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this treatment passes into breast milk.

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If you’ve noticed the wonderful photographs gracing the pages of Ferndale Friends, one of the persons you can thank is Ed Abeska.

He and his wife Joyce were united by a passion for photography, and four years ago decided to turn their hobby into a business by starting Fluid Photography. Ed had always been interested in drawing and art and used photography as a creative outlet while studying Engineering in college.

He was naturally drawn to portraiture and figure studies. Joyce was a lifelong point-and-shoot, memory-capturing kind of person.

“I was always the one with the camera out on vacations,” she explained. While she didn’t have any formal training or tutoring, Ed admired her natural ability to capture unique and artistic views without fancy equipment and post-shoot editing.

While vacationing around the state of Michigan they began gathering hundreds of photographs of iconic Michigan views; sunsets on the Great Lakes, lighthouses on piers, gorgeous gardens and forests. After returning home they decided to share the beauty that many Michiganders may overlook. They have been selling a variety of prints at art festivals as well as on their online shop at fluidphoto.zenfolio.com.

In addition to Michigan’s gorgeous landscapes, Ed and Joyce also specialize in wedding photography. As a team they are able to capture a variety of shots to ensure each wedding album is as unique as each wedding day is. Ed captures classic portraits and group shots while keeping a gainful eye on scenery and candid opportunities. Joyce has the eye for little details that will keep every little memory of the special day sharp for years to come.

Fluid Photography has also worked a variety of events other than weddings,including auto shows, car races and fashion shoots.

Portrait opportunities other than weddings are also a big focus for Fluid Photography. Senior photos and family portraits can be done on site at their studio (located at 9 Mile and Hilton) or at a location of the model’s choosing. Break away from the typical yearly family portrait and try a session at a favorite park or in your home. FP offers full print services as well as high-resolution digital files, according to customer preference.

Ed and Joyce are also currently looking for a candidate to take part in an entire pregnancy-capturing portfolio. The project will entail monthly portraits showing pregnancy progress ending with a newborn photo shoot. The candidate will receive a free coffee table book of the images as compensation, a beautiful memento for your child and family. If interested, contact the team at info@fluidfoto.com.

If you’re looking for a unique gift for a significant other or for yourself, or if you’re a model interested in nude shots, Joyce and Ed are also talented boudoir photographers. Models are able to select between the two photographers as well as their own desired location for a more comfortable session. Fluid Nudes has produced many sexy boudoir shots and fine art black and white nudes.

The Abeskas are big fans of the simplicity and artistry of photography. They try to avoid post-shoot editing at all costs, letting the camera do all of the work. Whether you are looking for Michigan scenery to adorn your walls or want to capture your wedding or loved ones, make Fluid Photography your first stop. Visit their website at www.fluidfoto.com. Besides their online store, Ed and Joyce’s photographs can be viewed and purchased at the Gallery of Royal Oak starting in October.

If slightly happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a preparation. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states coupled to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men talk about “viagra stories“? The most essential aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a status called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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Zander Melidis wonders aloud whether it’s just cooler to seem like you don’t care.

Melidis performs as Zander Michigan; he tends bar over at Dino’s Lounge and cut his teeth (and turned local ears) by performing at a handful of its open mic nights. He’s confused as to why more local singer/songwriters, artists, performers, you name it, aren’t as prepared nor as presentable toward the level he aspires to, complete with striped bowtie, straw basher hat, blazer, coat and vintage saddle shoes along with an E.P. of songs that he’d already recorded before anyone knew who he was or had seen him play.

If Melidis doesn’t care about something, actually, it’s whatever sarcastic remark any chucklehead at a sports bar might throw his way when this stylized singer casually saddles up on a Sunday night just to hang out. That’s how he’s going to look, regardless; because ever since he started performing as Zander Michigan, one year ago next month, now he can no longer leave his house in Clawson without dressing to the nines (or at least up to the sevens).
But then, Melidis is pretty much over feeling stressed about anything, least of all music, since he just graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Michigan, which boasts one of the highest-ranked programs in the world.

“Stress? You can’t even use that word for that program,” said Melidis. “But now, with (music), this is something I’ve always dreamed of doing, so I know how to handle that.” He can remember the moment he knew he wanted to pursue music: he was six years old, listening to the Beatles for the first time. It wasn’t long before Melidis, barely through the first grade, dreamt up starting a band with his cousins, to be just like the Beatles. “We could do this,” he remembers thinking to himself at that young age.

We ask if he’s ever gotten nervous. Like, when he went in for a live session on Essential Music with Ann Delisi on WDET, or when he performed River Days in Detroit and Ann Arbor’s Summer Festival in one weekend?

“No, I don’t get nervous. I get anxious. It’s a different kind of nervousness, more like: where am I going to go next?”

And that’s Melidis in a nutshell. He’s self-assured without any ego. Happy to perform but humble as hell. He exudes an inviting vibe, even if his singing voice mimics that raspy warble of Bob Dylan – an acquired taste for some, maybe, but his guitar playing can lasso a listener inward with its rivulet of riffs churning along under the occasional gusty fuzz from his harmonica. Yes, that harmonica’s strapped around his neck, just like the Highway 61 Revisited-era Dylan and yes, that’s intentional, if just incorrigible.

“In my junior year of college, someone told me: you gotta’ listen to this guy…”

Bob Dylan?

“Yeah! I mean, I must have heard of him, somewhere, but never listened to him at all. I sat down, listened, and…WOW! This edgy, raspy voice and I’d been wanting to do more solo stuff. So, hey, why couldn’t I maybe be Bob Dylan’s grandson, or something? I picked up the folk patterns, started strumming and wrote some weird, indecipherable lyrics down and got to a twang in my voice and said: Hey, this works. No, wait, this actually really fits!”
He wrote more than ten songs in just two months, eventually recording four of them onto a CD so that he could have something ready for his first show. “Yeah, I think I did it kinda’ backwards, compared to what most musicians might do, they might play live a lot and get people to know their songs first before they record. But I had it ready to go.”

“I was ready to hit the ground running.”Flashy business cards, CDs, bow-tie and basher hat, he was ready.

It’s one thing to dream, as Melidis did – be it about The Beatles or Bob Dylan; it’s another thing to experiment and find your voice and find your style – be it with an early screamo/metal band in which he played drums or a brief trip down lanes derivative of Coldplay or The Strokes; it’s another thing to establish a work ethic.
“That’s part of the game. You have to be starving, you have to be hungry, you have to chase it.” And he did. He started working here in Ferndale a year ago; Dino’s catchphrase, actually,also fits Zander Michigan’s live presentation and style of music: “Upscale But Not Uptight.” Or, as Melidis’ friend once praised him: He “keeps it G’edup from the feet-up.” Ever since, his work ethic instilled him in a diligence – to chase open mic nights, set up modest coffee shop gigs, and eventually grab ears at WDET or for River Days or for as far west as Ann Arbor. Slow, but steady.

“And it comes down to a sense of entitlement,” Melidis said.

“That’s a key word in any conversation regarding any field. If you feel you’re God’s gift to the Earth and you’re so talented and sexy? Whatever. Get over yourself.”

We tell him that the popular perception, or stigma, of singers and bands is that they’re inherently flakey, aloof and too cool to care, when it comes to work ethic. “And I think that’s the biggest load of crap,” Melidis says, signature sun glasses shading his eyes from the summer sun as he flashes a characteristically affable and toothy smile. “It’s so important! Like, what if I see Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr or Flint Eastwood or a guy from The Beggars out at the grocery store. Here’s my card! Here! I would love to play with you or maybe you could come out and hear my songs.”

Even if they don’t like his songs – they’re going to remember him, if just by his dynamic wardrobe. “People have stopped me on the street just to ask for a photo of my shoes.”

Zander Michigan (i.e. Melidis) will be getting his newest songs ready to record this month and hopefully return to the studio this Autumn. What’s next? “…just keep playing.”

Listen to songs and follow up on upcoming shows by Zander Michigan:soundcloud.com/zander-michigan – facebook.com/zandermichigan/info

Full length album, titled “Zander The Great,” will be released in late October with a release party to follow in late November/early December. For more information and to hear Zander’s music: www.zandermichigan.com

If some happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states coupled to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile malfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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