Renata and Tom Knific Are Terrific! You Think Successful Investors Don’T Have Lucky Numbers?

$4 • January 2011 www.encorekalamazoo.com

Renata and Tom Knific Are Terrific! You think successful investors don’t have lucky numbers?

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(269) 387-2300 2 (800) 228-9858 2 (269) www. 387-2300MILLERAUDITORIUM (800) 228-9858.com www.MILLERAUDITORIUM.com FROM THE PUBLISHER Art. Such a simple word, but, oh, so complex. Countless Not one to give up easily, I continued, driven to find the area residents will quickly tell you that we have a great definition on which I might hang my hat. Even more disconcerting arts community — and how could one disagree. We have a were the quotes I found on the next entry I reviewed. The late community supported Arts Council, and William Rubin from the Museum of Modern Art in New York said, entertaining Art Hops that draw downtown “There is no single definition of art.” And art historian Thomas crowds early each month. We also have McEvilley followed with “more or less anything can be designated numerous organizations presenting dance, as art.” If people of this stature in the art world can’t nail down a music, theater, visual arts, and even art definition, then I decided that perhaps I was searching for an answer 2010-112010-11 SEASON films — just to name a few. that I didn’t really need. I have always agreed that we are blessed What I do know, however, is that I am not an artist — no matter with excellent arts — never giving a thought to how one wants to define art or artists. I am now also convinced that Rick Briscoe whether I knew exactly what was meant by “arts I will find neither a concise nor conclusive definition of art. Yet, I community.” I just know that there is a lot of art in this community, recognize that I can enjoy art in its many forms, even without being and there are many artists creating it for the rest of us to enjoy, or not. able to define it, and even if I don’t have any special level of expertise. It is the “not” that moved me to seek more clarity. A So, if your artistic inclination is like mine, don’t shy away from controversy arose recently over the public display of a painting the arts just because others may seem to have more knowledge or outside a private art gallery and I wasn’t sure how I felt about it. I expertise in this area. You will know whether you enjoy something, needed to ponder a deeper understanding of just what art is. regardless of what any expert may say. Certain things you see or Because a dictionary definition seemed inadequate, I began hear may disturb you — as the painting mentioned above troubles searching the Internet for a more thorough meaning of art. some — but at least you will be judging for yourself and participating Typical of Internet research, I was soon inundated with much in what is clearly a great arts community. more information than I could possibly digest — 63,000,000 results. Undaunted, I opened a page attributed to Sweet Briar College only to find two statements jumping off the page at me — “Art has not always been what we think it is today” and Rick Briscoe “Art lacks a satisfactory definition.” Publisher

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CONTENTS MAGAZINE

Publisher 8 richard J. Briscoe For TOM and Editor RENATA Penny Briscoe kNIFIC, Assistant to the Publisher music is a ronald Dundon way of life. Copy Editor Cherri Glowe Volume Issue 38 5 • January 2011 Poetry Editor theresa Coty O’Neil ick Briscoe ick

Contributing Writers r Kaye Bennett Penny Briscoe Photo: Bill Krasean Larry Massie SPECIALS theresa Coty O’Neil 18 robert M. Weir SCOTT ALdRICH 5 FROM THE PUBLISHER Contributing Poets extracts the beauty Gerhard Fürst of chemistry. 10 TRIVIA PURZOOT Cullen O’Neil 22 MAkING MUSIC Designer Brakeman Reknowned Cellist Has Local Roots

Encore magazine is pub- Photo: Bill Krasean 23 LOCAL CONNECTIONS lished nine times yearly, Enjoying Downtown September through May. Copyright 2011, Encore Pub- Living lishing Group, Inc. All rights 24 reserved. Editorial, circula- Massie’s Michigan 30 EVENTS OF NOTE tion and advertising corre- focuses on spondence should be sent CAdILLAC. to 350 S. Burdick, Suite 214, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. tele- POETRY phone: (269) 383-4433. Fax number: (269) 383-9767. E- 17 Ode to My Cello mail: Publisher@Encoreka- lamazoo.com. the staff at 29 Misty Mornings Encore welcomes written comment from readers, 32 and articles and poems for Gifted artist submission with no obliga- AL HARRIS tion to print or return them. to learn more about us or leaves a legacy to comment, you may visit of education. www.encorekalamazoo.com. Encore subscription rates: on Dundon on one year $27.00, two years r

$53.00, three years $78.00. Photo: Current single issue and newsstand $4.00, $10.00 by mail. Back issues $6.00, 40 $12.00 by mail. Advertising rates on request. Closing Make SPAIN your date for space is 28 days next travel destination. prior to publication date. Fi- nal date for print-ready copy is 21 days prior to publication obert M. Weir date. r Photo:

Cover photos by Rick Briscoe

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8 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 www.encorekalamazoo.com 9 Knifics

Renata’s Story

WHEN RENATA Artman was born in Poland in 1955, Stalin had just died, and, as Renata puts it, “The Iron Cur- tain was heavy.” Her family, indeed the whole country, had escaped from the frying pan of World War II into the fire of commu- nism. Renata’s father, Jerzy, had fought with the resistance at age 16 and, after the failed Warsaw uprising in 1944, had

The Knifics attended the Schlern Music Festival in the Italian Alps as a family a year ago July. Renata has taught and performed there many times, and in 2009 son John (third from left) was a student there.

fled with his family to the Krakow area. had to be accepted at a music school After the war, he returned to Warsaw, and keep up with rigorous studies (all walking most of the 180 miles. students attended school six days a Antonina, Renata’s mother, was 13 week), as well as passing performance years old when she was taken to a Nazi exams every semester. If you didn’t labor camp in Germany. She spent a pass, Renata remembers, you couldn’t year in the camp before being freed by continue musical studies. the American forces at the end of the Although she didn’t start studying war. She, too, returned to Warsaw. violin until she was 8, Renata’s musical Jerzy and Antonina both attended training had started even earlier, with Warsaw Polytechnic, where they met, classes in music theory and solfeggio and both became electrical engineers. scale exercises. (Note: American music Renata’s mother worked with the students usually don’t study theory earliest computers, while her father until they reach college.) developed telephone communication It was Jerzy Artman who started systems. Renata’s journey away from Poland. In Renata, meanwhile, a huge Having taught himself English, Jerzy musical talent was starting to become was sent to Britain to train workers The men in the Knific family are pictured in apparent. To become a musician in in the new phone systems. When he Balzano, Italy. Renata was teaching at the Schlern Music Festival at the time. Communist-controlled Poland, a child returned, he brought brochures for schools in London, including the Royal College of Music. Renata, aged 17, had never owned a passport: Poland was a closed country and most people were not allowed to travel outside its borders. She consid- In what movie did ered her father’s dream of sending her this horse appear to London to study to be “a joke.” But she looked into the possibili- and where is it ty — however thin — that she could make now located? the trip. “I was told that I could possibly do it if I could get permission from every (Answer on page 46) organization related to education and the Communist government,” she recalls.

10 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011

Knifics

She decided to try. For almost a in Northern Ireland, a violent place year, she waited for signatures from one for a young lady on her own in 1975. office and then another. “Sometimes She remembers security concerns they signed just to get rid of me.” were so high that, when she flew, she Finally, the last remaining permis- was not allowed to carry her violin sion needed to come from the Polish case and had to hold her violin in her musical conservatory. “I thought that lap. She passed through numerous would break it. The person in charge checkpoints on her way to the record- was not nice,” Renata says. But fortune ing studio each day. smiled and the not-nice man left for a When Renata was 21, she was week, to be replaced by a friend of Re- invited to audition with the English nata’s. The final signature in place, she Chamber Orchestra in London, one of was soon ready to leave for England. the world’s top orchestral groups. With She arrived in London with just them, Renata toured extensively for the $20 from her father and a “not-so- next four years. During those years, great” violin. The first thing she need- says Renata, she was on the road eight In Warsaw, Poland, during the Cold War, ed was a place to stay. During World Renata Artman (Knific) stands as an months out of 12, with very few free War II, Renata’s great-grandmother had innocent child in front of government days. “I lived out of a suitcase.” soldiers holding Kalashnikovs. The photo saved the life of a young Jewish man offers an interesting contrast. Renata was having incredible who had ended up in London. Renata experiences with the English Cham- sought him out, and he gave her a place Windsor Castle: While performing ber Orchestra. (Simon Rattle became to stay and work. During the first years, there with the English Chamber Or- such a friend that he would later come she also worked as an au pair and sold chestra, she was wandering through the to Renata’s student apartment in his newspapers. “I had to make it on my castle in search of a phone. She got lost limousine to take her to lunch.) But she own,” she says. “It was tough.” and ended up in the private quarters, says, “I was still so young.” She felt she Just 24 months after leaving Po- where two of the Royal Family’s dogs needed to study more. “No matter how land, Renata Artman found herself hav- growled at her. “I’ve never moved so fast good the group was ... I felt I needed to ing tea with the Queen Mother, having in my life,” she says. “I thought they’d invest more in myself.” been invited to an honorific reception eat me.” Renata frequently performed A legendary musician agreed with with fellow Royal College music stu- for and met the Royal Family; Prince her. “Isaac Stern was playing with us, dents. “I had to learn to curtsey,” says Charles was the patron of the ensemble. and he noticed I was the youngest in the Renata. She also recalls another time at By age 20, Renata was freelancing group. He asked me who I studied with.

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12 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 He said I should come to America.” Another major com- Stern told Renata, “You must come and ponent, he says, was plain play for me.” In Barcelona, she did that, “dumb luck.” As an 8-year- and Stern “ ... was encouraging, insist- old Beatles fan, he wanted ing I do something for myself.” The to play the guitar, so he famous violinist urged Renata to make started taking lessons and the move. happened upon a teacher, Finances were still a consider- Jim Leihenseder, whom ation, so she ended up at the Cleveland Tom says was “an artist” Institute of Music (CIM), which offered and who became a life-long a good scholarship. friend. In September 1980, Renata Artman Early on, Tom longed moved to Cleveland and again she had to play classical music, to survive financially, but by now she no but he wanted to perform longer had to au pair or sell newspapers. in ensembles, so classical Instead she started teaching at the CIM, guitar was not an option. filling in for music professors who were So while he was in middle on tour, an experience that modified her school, he started taking career goals. She discovered an interest bass lessons. By seventh in teaching and playing chamber music, grade, he was playing with which helped shape her future. About wedding and polka bands. Tom and Renata Knific pose on the Great Wall of China. They have been in Beijing numerous times as musicians in-residence at that same time, she met a fellow musi- Tom developed a love Central Conservatory and China Conservatory and will go again cian who would also shape that future. of jazz through his gui- in May. Several talented students have come to Kalamazoo to tar and of classical music study as a result of these trips. Tom’s Story through the bass. It was That was not that easy in the 1970s, obvious that music would become when the concept of crossover was still AS A BOY GROWING UP in Cleveland, the driving force in his life. In 10th in its infancy. “The inklings (for cross- Tom Knific says he was surrounded by grade, listening to Beethoven’s Seventh over) just barely existed,” remembers creativity. His father, Rudy, played bass and Symphony, Tom began to plan for an or- Tom. had both classical and jazz training, and chestral career. His dream was to study After high school, Tom decided to his oldest brother played drums. Both were classical bass, but to do so in a great stay in his hometown and study at the influential in Tom’s musical leanings. jazz environment. CIM. He was already working in the

www.encorekalamazoo.com 13 Knifics

best groups in the music scene and get- ting to know famous musicians — Jim Brickman became one of his best friends and later would attend Tom and Renata’s wedding. Although, as Tom says, “Nobody at the Cleveland Institute did jazz,” he was satisfying that urge by playing guitar and bass in clubs four or five nights a week, while he studied classical bass during the days. He says he developed two separate sets of friends: his classical-leaning friends at the CIM, and his friends at the Togo Suite Jazz Club on Fair Hill Street, where “I was the only white guy.” But Tom continued to want to com- bine his two worlds into one career. “I dreamed I could do it all.” The classical world sent Tom, the summer after his sophomore year at CIM, to Italy, to perform at the Spo- leto Festival, where he would meet his future teacher, Franco Petracchi. Com- Tom Knific makes a comic gesture to play the edible bass sitting atop his birthday cake. The cake was ing home after that trip, he stopped in created by Chef Eric Gillish and served at a 50th birthday for Tom at the Union, where as the music contractor he books over 120 events each year. The cake was 100 percent edible; the bass on top was Washington, D.C., to hear big bands at solid chocolate cake with white-chocolate strings. Wolftrap. The bass player in the Tommy Dorsey band, where Tom had friends, of course, and Tom did ask her. “She been able to phone Renata, finally had just quit, so Tom was pulled up said yes. Fortunately,” Tom says. received a telegram from her, inform- onto the stage to fill in. He enjoyed the Playing the Bottesini took a lot ing him that she’d accepted a job at gig so much that he decided to take of time. It was “kind of like dating,” Interlochen and would be moving to a hiatus from school and spend the they both remember. They became Michigan. That caused further panic in autumn traveling with the band. “I felt friends (“To this day, we’re the greatest the would-be suitor, as he still hadn’t so naughty,” says Tom. “People from friends,” says Renata). Then another of been able to tell Renata how he felt. the Cleveland Institute of Music did not Tom’s study trips to Italy ramped up the When it was time for Renata to quit school to travel with the Dorsey relationship. return from Santa Fe, she called Tom’s band.” By this time, Renata was in New father to ask if he could pick her up at But he only played hooky for one Mexico, performing with the Santa Fe the Cleveland airport. He agreed, but semester and then was back in class. Opera Orchestra. Studying in Sienna neglected to tell her that he was already The second time he went to Italy, it with Petracchi, Tom said he suddenly planning to go to the airport, since Tom changed his life even more. realized what was important to him, would be arriving from Italy within and he began to fear that, if he didn’t minutes of her flight from New Mexico. Their Story propose to Renata, he might lose her. Likewise, he didn’t tell Tom that Renata Communication from Italy in the was coming in that day. THE NExT SUMMER, Tom again early 1980s was not easy. Tom spent All parties involved were surprised, went to Italy. This time, studying with weeks standing in lines, waiting for a and Tom proposed on the spot. Petracchi, he learned a concerto for public phone to free up, only to miss Newly engaged, Renata left for bass and violin by Bottesini. When he Renata because she was out. Part of Interlochen and her first full-time got back to school, he needed a violin- what she was out doing, Tom would teaching job. Focusing her time on her ist to perform it with him, and friends learn in later months, was applying for a students was a new experience. She’d advised him: “Ask the new girl.” job at Interlochen Center for the Arts. been accustomed to practicing as much “The new girl” was Renata Artman, Tom, frustrated because he hadn’t as 10 hours a day. It was also her first

14 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 ing across Michigan. Renata, of course, had plenty to keep her busy. In addition to completely restoring the home they’d bought in the Hillanbrook neighborhood, caring for John, performing as a soloist, starting the Merling Trio, and doing her full-time WMU job, she also served as concertmaster for the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra and had a dozen private violin students. Eventually Tom was able to transi- tion full-time to Kalamazoo. A second son, Gene, was born in 1992, and the family moved to a bigger house, right next door. Students and friends moved Having been surrounded by music throughout their childhoods, Gene and John Knific are both their belongings over a ramp they built accomplished pianists. Here they sit at the keyboard of the Schimmel grand piano that is a prominent between the houses, with one music feature in the Knific living room. student playing the spinet in transit. experience not living in a city; until tour with the Interlochen String Quartet Soon the new home would be, like the Interlochen, Cleveland had been the and baby John. first one had been, hosting jazz greats smallest place she’d ever lived. “It was The night they returned from that from around the world. so quiet I couldn’t fall asleep.” tour, they got a call from Western Mich- When her children were small, A year after Renata started teaching igan University, inviting them to the Renata combined the demands of moth- at Interlochen, she and Tom Knific were finals for two job openings in the music erhood with the life of a professional married. The wedding, says Tom, was department, even though they had not musician. She says she did a lot of her wonderful, full of music and friends. applied for the jobs. It was very rare that musical work in the boys’ toy room. “It’s They chose a church where mentor and two openings, tailor made for a violinist an interesting life you lead when you friend Karel Paukert played the organ. and jazz/classical bassist, would come are a mom and a professional person.” Friends sat on the bride’s side of the up at the same time. “I can’t think of Sons John and Gene grew up in church, since Renata had no family who anyone else with that kind of luck,” said those two houses, attending Portage could make it to the United States; she Tom. schools and Kalamazoo Area Math and borrowed a wedding dress and cooked Exhausted from travel, new parent- Science Center. the food herself for the reception. hood and lack of sleep, Renata and Tom John, 23, graduated from Case Fate made it possible for the newly- agreed to come for the auditions, even weds to find work in the same place. In- though they both knew they would be terlochen had no resident bass teacher grueling. and simultaneously wanted to develop They drove three cars from Inter- a jazz program. They asked Tom if lochen to Kalamazoo: In one was Tom, he’d like to audition. And, even though with his jazz bass, his classical bass and teaching was not, according to Tom, “on his guitar. In another, Renata had the my trajectory” and Renata had already baby and her violin. In the third was the said she wouldn’t mind moving back babysitter. When the entourage pulled to Cleveland, Tom did audition and got into the Radisson, the valet asked them the job at Interlochen. The couple both what band they were with. taught at Interlochen for four years, Both Renata and Tom got the jobs. building a home and having their first They moved to Kalamazoo, though Tom baby, John, while there. would stay at Interlochen part-time an The family dog, Josephine, a Weimaraner, peers They didn’t let family life slow them extra year to shepherd the new jazz pro- out of the sunroof of a family car. Because she down. “Nobody told us we shouldn’t gram and festival that he’d created and has made a habit of enjoying the wind in her face in this way, the Knifics decided it would tour with a three-month-old,” Renata to find a replacement for himself. He make a perfect Christmas card: hence the red said, recalling a northern California spent large chunks of the year commut- bow on the hood.

www.encorekalamazoo.com 15 Knifics

Western Reserve University last year. He passed up acceptance into Case’s medical school to concentrate on CitizenGroove.com, a company he founded with two friends. His company makes software for digitalizing musical auditions. In October 2010, as chief executive officer of CitizenGroove.com, John was named one of the Top 25 Entrepreneurs Under 25 by Bloomberg BusinessWeek. This is all in addition to the musician-artist skills that enabled

John to study piano at the Amsterdam Son John (right) and his two business partners, Marc Plotkin (center) and Eric Neuman (left), gleefully Conservatory, play in the Tom Knific take a stroll together after just having learned John was named one of the Top 25 Entrepreneurs Under Quartet, create a documentary about a 25 by Bloomberg Business Week. world bass convention his father orga- neateles Festival in New York when the was ever held in.” Tom negotiated with nized, and design the covers for all of boys were quite young. John and Gene the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek Interna- his parents’ CDs. “were batting fallen apples with … tional airport to delay runway construc- Gene, 18, was named for jazz guitar oversized bats into the lake with their tion, since construction would have great and family friend Gene Berton- new friend, [concert pianist] Awadagin “wreaked havoc” with the number of cini, who says of the youngest Knific, Pratt. A decade later, John shared that flights and size of planes the musicians “Us Genes gotta stick together!” Gene Awadagin’s name had come up on one needed. Not only was the convention graduated from Portage Northern in of the SAT tests he had just taken.” a musical success, but Tom received a 2010, earned three DownBeat Music Tom Knific says, “One of my great- hometown hero award from the Con- awards, and now attends the University est pleasures beyond performing with vention and Visitors Bureau for bringing of Miami, in Florida. Having decided my sons … is writing with them.” John it here. by middle school that he wanted to be and Tom have co-composed two works, Tom and Renata Knific say they a musician (he plays piano, bass and and Gene, according to his father, had never planned to stay in Kalama- drums), Gene dual enrolled at Western “writes tons.” A theme Gene wrote zoo, back when they came here in the when he was in tenth grade and had when he was “12 or 13,” which Tom ’80s. “We saw it as a stepping stone.” amassed 44 college credit hours by the adapted, was published and recorded at Then they realized that, “If we moved, time he graduated from high school. the Paris Opera House, while Gene was our kids would lose out.” They saw the The Knific sons grew up perform- still in middle school. advantages the Kalamazoo community ing, and having parents who are world- The Knifics both spend a lot of time offered for their sons. While Renata says renowned musicians put them into on the road; each is away from home on she still misses big cities, she adds, “The some unique situations. Tom recalls tour about 70 to 80 nights every year. place doesn’t make you. You make the performing with Renata at the Ska- They have also found many opportuni- place you live in.” ties to tour together: In the past several Tom says they both appreciate the Renata and Tom Knific found each other in Cleveland and were married a short time later. years, they have performed together in opportunity for touring and perform- Beijing, the Czech Republic, Paris and ing that Western allows them. “Now all London. When their boys were younger, of our friends want jobs like ours. This Tom and Renata attempted to alternate would not have happened 20 years ago. their tours for the children’s sake, but Today touring artists are moving away now that the boys have both moved on, from the big cities.” they look forward to more collabora- For more information about Tom tions. Knific, visit www.tomknific.com. For But the Knifics also bring their more information about Renata Art- work home. In 2005, Tom organized the man Knific and about the Merling Trio, 2005 International Society of Bassists which she founded 22 years ago with convention, with Kalamazoo hosting cellist Bruce Uchimura and pianist a thousand bassists from 28 countries. Susan Wiersma Uchimura, visit www. “It was the smallest city our convention merlingtrio.com.

16 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 A Sampling of Knific Success Ode to My Cello By Cullen O’Neil Renata Artman Knific Hollow, intricate, • Professor of Music and Chair of Strings at your glossy surface Western Michigan University. is marred only at the shoulders, • Joined English Chamber Orchestra at age 21, roughened by the case working with the greatest names in classical before your varnish dried. music; made several dozen recordings. Your back is a brown, swirling milky way, • Founder and violinist of the Merling Trio; divided by the line recorded six CDs. where two polished • 2007 recipient of the WMU College of Fine Arts poplar pieces meet. Your front wears Outstanding Service Award. a striped shirt — • Former students perform in orchestras throughout so precise the world. is the grain of the Italian spruce. • Founding member of OPUS 21 Your shape, outlined • 2003: released crossover recording with jazz by never-meeting lines of purfling, greats Gene Bertoncini, Sir Roland Hanna, John is rudely interrupted Abercrombie, Jamey Haddad and Billy Hart. by the jutting fingerboard, a raven’s tail of ebony. • 2004: Critical acclaim for her recording of Marga Your scroll is an artful Richter’s “Variation & Interludes on Themes from carving; a fern, Monteverdi to Bach.” not yet unfurled. Your strings, • 2008: CD of works by William Bolcom selected as delicate silver moonbeams, CD of the Month by BBC Music Magazine. shine down from rosewood pegs • Guest artist at numerous national and international where they wind, fine vines on polished branches. festivals. Your bridge, • Attracts top violin students from around the world to arched, white, unpolished, study at WMU. is flecked with brown like chicken feed scattered Tom Knific in the middle of winter. Your tailpiece, • Professor of Double Bass and Director of Jazz Studies shiny, black, at Western Michigan University. is pierced by four equally dark fine-tuners • Has performed with great jazz and classical artists, which protrude like stiff, dried berries. including Gene Bertoncini, Billy Hart, Randy On your very bottom, Brecker, Dave Brubeck, Fred Hersch and more. where curved maple strips meet, • Has recorded with Pepe Romero, Andre Watts, sprouts a stout golden cylinder with a golden screw, Philippe Entremont and Merling Trio. set to unlock the endpin, • Soloist and principal bassist with orchestras, a silver weapon. chamber orchestras, festivals around the world. This miniature spear slides out of your depths with ease, • Founding member, bassist and composer for OPUS 21. and buries itself • Has composed more than two dozen works. in the lush carpet, as I play you, • Students perform in orchestras on three continents. your tones ever-beautiful, • Leader of the Western Jazz Quartet (group has rich or lilting, appeared on five continents and received rave a flowing river, reviews for its five CDs of original music). or a trickling stream.

• More than two dozen recordings, including four solo Cullen O’Neil is an eighth grade home-schooled student and a member of the CDs. Kalamazoo Junior Symphony. She wrote this ode as an assignment for her ATYP (Academically Talented Youth Program) English class, which is taught • Past president of the International Society of Bassists. by Becky Cooper. Her cello was generously awarded through the Education for the Arts Irving S. Gilmore Equipment Scholarship Program.

www.encorekalamazoo.com 17 Photo: Bill Krasean

There has always been an art to Scott Aldrich’s science. And now there’s a science to his art. The 59-year-old retired Upjohn-Pharma- The Art of Science cia-Pfizer scientist has turned his skills By Bill Krasean as a specialist in detecting contaminants in pharmaceutical products into photo- Aldrich said his interest in microscopy and crystal chemistry began when he was graphs of incredibly beautiful crystals in assigned to work in Quality Control at The Upjohn Co. in the 1970s. He had started a spectrum of rich colors. with the pharmaceutical company in 1971 with a part-time summer job and before he By coupling a microscope and digi- had earned a bachelor’s degree in biology at Western Michigan University. tal camera, Aldrich turns benzoic acid, “I worked at night and they kept me on,” he said. “Six months after I started, they tar camphor, vitamin B and a myriad of asked me to work full time.” other compounds into works of art that He continued his education while working and earned his degree in 1976. “Work- he prints and sells both over the Internet ing at Upjohn was a good reality check,” he said. “It allowed me to see if I really liked through www.crossedpolars.com and my field of study.” local art shows. Not only did he like the field, the folks at Upjohn liked him. Over time he was “I’m happiest sitting at a micro- promoted to a position supervising other scientists, despite the fact that he had only scope and making images,” said Aldrich, the bachelor’s degree. who retired in 2006 and lives in rural “Administration got over the fact that I didn’t have an advanced degree,” he said. Richland. “I made prints before I retired “I’m not a brainiac, but I’m very tenacious and a hard worker. It probably didn’t hurt but not for commercial purposes — until that my job was in a specialized niche, applying problem solving in all areas of the about six months after I retired.” company. My daily challenges allowed me to learn the fundamentals, how to un-

18 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 “Melting Wave Fuchsia” is Scott Aldrich’s microscopical image of Methylparaben — organic molecules used as antifungal agents and as preservatives in pharmaceutical products. Crossed polarized light was used to capture these splendid colors.

material, creating the brilliant colors. Here’s how Aldrich explains it: “When viewed between polarizing filters, crossed from 30 to 90 degrees, we see colors produced by interference of light waves after passing through the substance in different vectors and thus different speeds, yielding striking contrast and effects. “Ever see gas on a mud puddle in bright sunlight? That’s it!” Aldrich uses a simplified example of a one-ton pile of bricks. You can view the bricks as a disorganized pile or stack them neatly to form a cube, he said. It’s the same ton of bricks. It has the same chemical identity. Nothing has changed except the appearance that results from the stacking order. Or you can stack the bricks into a rectangular pile. Again, nothing has changed except the appearance. You can even slide layers of bricks into different positions — say, for example, a rhombus. It’s still one ton of bricks. But the different physical arrangement — stacking order — affects the light or any other “Both organic and inorganic substances electromagnetic radiation as it passes through the solid, and therefore the light can yield beautiful colors and structures.” as it travels along each physical axis. — Scott Aldrich If we were to use x-rays to probe the stacking order, they would reflect off the derstand the physics and chemistry and biology and apply these first principles in a stacking planes of the bricks and reveal broader sense.” the stacking order, or crystal symmetry. And that expands to all aspects of life. “You need a broader understanding of many things such as politics and economics as you walk through the world. You need to he color of the material that get along with people when you should and speak up when you see that something is Aldrich views in his microscopes wrong.” Tdepends on both the material’s Aldrich retired as a legacy scientist from Pharmaceutical Sciences when Pfizer thickness and the degree of refractive closed that division in Kalamazoo in 2005, after many years in research and develop- index difference. The “white” light we ment and product launch support. Since retirement he has become the principal con- see with our eyes is made of a rainbow sultant for Ultramikro LLC (www.ultramikro.com), a quality-control contract company of colors, each color having its own and the Internet vehicle through which he sells the microcrystalline artwork through wavelength. Colors in Aldrich’s samples Crossed Polars (www.crossedpolars.com). are made visible when wavelengths are The details of his work are highly technical. In essence, he examines a compound slowed to different speeds as they move through a microscope either as it is or after he heats it to the melting point and then through the material and are separated allows it to “freeze” at room temperature. into component colors upon exit. He then uses polarizing filters to change the nature of the light passing though the Most solid materials have the

www.encorekalamazoo.com 19 Alrdrich Photo: Bill Krasean three-dimensional configuration that we call a crystal. Even your hair. And some materials that are not solid can still form liquid crystals, although they will have their stacking order in only two dimen- sions (soap bubbles, for example). “Both organic and inorganic substances can yield beautiful colors and structures when viewed in this manner,” he said. Aldrich makes his prints with HP Vivera inks and paper or with an Epson Ultra-Chrome K3 2400 printer on Epson photo-grade paper. He does all this magic in a small room in his home, where he and his wife Mary have lived since 1977. Scott Aldrich poses in front of a display of his photographic art. The two have known each other the quality of the material,” he said. of the lot and the material, and launched since they were in kindergarten at St. “And because I did quality analysis for a an edit of the supplier. Mary’s school in Kalamazoo and married living, I had to sort out all types of mate- How does anyone recognize moth in January 1971. rial. Our job was to put a glop of material wing scales? Mary worked as an x-ray technician on a slide and drill into it to see what the “Our team had to be interested at Borgess Medical Center and at West- heck it was.” in everything. We were curious and side Family Medical Center until she was Over the years, he examined a wide inquisitive,” he said. hired part-time at The Upjohn Co. range of materials and had insights In his role as contaminant detective In 1981 she was brought on full- that allowed him and his team to find he sometimes uncovered impurities that time in quality control. “Sound famil- answers quickly and accurately about a occasionally halted a particular proj- iar?” Scott asked. wide range of contaminants. He likened ect. On one occasion he was called to a Mary retired from Pfizer Environ- other research teams using only one conference about a particular research mental Health & Safety in 2009. technique to the storied Hindi blind men project, and as he entered the room, he The couple has no children but their examining an elephant, each feeling and heard someone whisper, “It’s the Angel 10-acre property does provide Aldrich understanding a part of the animal but of Death,” a friendly sobriquet that stuck. with a place to raise Chinese white not seeing the elephant in its entirety. “If we found a contaminant, it was and African geese. “Their wings aren’t “After all the experience I had, I could our goal to get rid of it,” he said. “My at- clipped, but they don’t fly away,” Aldrich see a wider range of parts,” he said. “And titude then and now is that if you have a said. “They know a good thing when when I saw something once, I could problem, we have a problem. Let’s fix it. they see it.” remember it.” “In the pursuit of that goal, there Foxes and coyotes are thought to He cites one example early in his were days in the lab when I would be have made a meal of some of the geese, career when he was asked to examine examining a material under the micro- and the population of the big birds has a sample of an ointment product that scope and say, ‘Wow, look at this.’ That declined over the years. “If I had to do it had tiny black specks. The people who was a real bonus to my job. Late in my all over again, I wouldn’t raise geese,” he brought the sample assumed the tiny Pfizer career someone said, ‘That’s cool. said. “But I’ve got a big, soft heart and I specks were bits of metal, not a concern You should sell it.’” couldn’t hurt them. Mary just shakes her to them unless there were too many of Aldrich barely sits still now that head. She calls it Scotty’s Folly.” them. Aldrich popped the sample on a he is retired. Not only does he do the Aldrich said he has always had an slide and examined it in his microscope. artwork, but he occasionally travels as artistic side. For many years he expressed “After a brief look I told them I had good part of his contract work in training oth- his art through cut-glass projects. news and bad news,” he said. “The good ers to use microscopy. He loves to teach, “I studied material science and con- news was the little black specks weren’t and his goal is to help his clients learn ducted crystallography at work, using bits of metal. The bad news was that the the tricks of his trade so they can do the primarily microscopy to determine the specks were moth wing scales,” an unde- work themselves. nature of compounds and to determine sirable contaminant that caused rejection He also volunteers his time at

20 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 Capturing just the right image is as challenging under a microscope as in any other type of photography.

Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes, and he shares his skills as a Tuesday Toolman for the Senior Services RSVP program. “I really enjoy both of them,” he said. It’s the microscope, however, that has the most potent pull. “This kind of artwork is not unique to me,” he said. “I didn’t invent it. But there aren’t a whole lot of us who are doing the artwork. We’re a select group.” Ever the consummate scientist, he sees his artwork in his own unique way: “People look at my images and see a pretty picture,” he said. “I see way more into it.” Photo: Bill Krasean

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www.encorekalamazoo.com 21 Reknowned Cellist Has Local Roots By Theresa Coty O-Neil

WhEN ANNE FrANCIS takes the stage in February to solo with Competition and was a member of the cello section with the KSO the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra, it won’t be for the while still in high school. At age 13, Anne began studying with first time. Anne, a cellist with the renowned Fry Street Quartet, Western Michigan University professor and Merling Trio member returns as a KJSO alum who nearly 20 years ago twice won the Bruce Uchimura. organization’s annual Concerto Competition. An interesting twist in regards to the concert: Anne will be Back then, she was playing with her peers, some of whom playing the very same piece, David Popper’s “Hungarian Rhap- she had known since she started cello sody,” that she first studied with Bruce 23 years ago and has not at age 4 under the gifted tutelage of played since. “I pulled out the music and there’s his handwriting Suzuki instructor Grace Field. This all over my part,” she said. time she returns as a seasoned profes- Following graduation in 1993 from Portage Northern High sional musician who is less nervous, School, Anne attended the Cleveland Institute of Music and the very excited, and deeply appreciative Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. Winner of the Darius of her musical roots. Milhaud Performance Prize and the Fischoff National Chamber “I have lived many places since Music Competition, Anne has performed in many venues, includ- I’ve left Kalamazoo, and I am more and ing Carnegie Hall in New York. An advocate of public radio, Anne more struck by what a wonderful com- also can be heard frequently on air as one of the NPR Cellos. munity it is,” said Anne, who currently Her advice to young musicians is short and sweet: Practice Anne Francis teaches at Utah State University and consistently and enjoy it. performs and teaches around the country in prestigious venues with “Great cellists are not just born. The raw materials you start the Fry Street Quartet. “As an adult, I realize how fortunate I was to with actually matter very little in the long run. It’s the people who grow up with an organization like the KJSO, which is exceptional for work hard and put their nose to the grindstone that succeed,” she the level of quality and the commitment that the orchestra demands said. “When I was in high school and looking toward studying of its students, especially for the size of the community. music, I started to take it too seriously. I forgot to enjoy it. But “It made such a difference in my life and what I chose to do enjoyment is really the only reason that anyone should choose a professionally,” she said. “Great music-making often comes down life in music, whether professional or not.” to really great connections.” The KJSO concert will take place at 4 p.m. Sunday, February Anne’s Kalamazoo cello career was illustrious, both in terms 20th at Chenery Auditorium. Tickets are available at the door. Ad- of connections and accomplishments. At age 10, she made her ditional concert music will feature pieces by Bartok, Brahms, Liszt international debut with the Inaugural World Cello Congress. and Kodaly. The KJSO also plans a special announcement. More She twice won the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Concerto information is available on the KJSO Web site at www.kjso.org.

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22 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 The Browns Love It Downtown By Penny Briscoe thrEE yEArS AGO Ric and Linda Brown moved into their upscale, third-floor apartment in Peregrine Tower in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo. They traded a rural view along the 16th fairway of The Moors golf course for a cityscape that overlooks the Kalamazoo Mall, and have no regrets. The Browns were seeking a simpler lifestyle, having been homeowners for most of their married lives. Their family was grown, and they were tired of the upkeep — so they took the leap. They sold their house and moved into a rental just a couple of blocks from Miller Canfield where Ric practices law. “It’s extremely convenient; I drive my car so little now that I can’t believe it,” says Ric, whose happy musings about his experience living downtown are shared by Linda. “I like the proximity to the restaurants, theater, and The Brown’s kitchen features maple cabinets that correspond with the entertainment,” Ric continues with Linda nodding in maple hardwood floors throughout their apartment at Peregrine Tower. agreement next to him in their well-lit living room with ample natural lighting from large windows on two sides. Ric believes the trend of renting may continue as an appealing alternative to owning a home, at least until the economy improves. Linda notes that while they may be some of the oldest tenants, they enjoy the company of a wide variety of neighbors, including a couple from Australia, who are employed just outside of Kalamazoo, and a tenant with a three-month-old infant. “Some work in downtown, and some commute to jobs elsewhere,” says Linda. “Some are married and some are single.” Ric acknowledges that their lifestyle might not be as comfortable with young children in the household. However, both he and Linda enjoy entertaining their grandchildren in the heart of downtown. They attend events by walking—to the museum, Linda and Ric Brown (Continued on page 46)

www.encorekalamazoo.com 23 Fortunes were made in CadillaC, by lumbermen who ereCted pretentious mansions as symbols oF their suCCesses.

FTER WHITE KNUCKLING the “gateway to true up- S-curves of Grand Rapids in the north Michigan,” 1990s and then barreling north and it continues on the U.S. 131 expressway, with to evolve through the appearances of the first roadside changing times. Lumberman George A. Mitchell founded the community he called Clam Lake in 1871. It birch trees, motorists sense they have And the story of its was later renamed Cadillac, and Mitchell reached the north country. Nevertheless, historic development is worth the served as the first mayor. it’s a pretty boring drive until you reach telling. the outskirts of Cadillac and the end of By the 1830s shanty boys had begun was designated as the first county seat. the expressway. lumbering the vast stands of white pine Political maneuvering, however, Despite the heavy traffic funneled that covered the Saginaw, Muskegon, resulted in Sherman being bypassed by through the downtown, it was always a and Grand River valleys. The continuing the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad welcome diversion to cruise through that quest for “green gold” also spurred the that reached the Cadillac area, instead, in old city with its many mercantile attrac- first inroads into Wexford County. 1872. George Mitchell, affiliated with rail- tions; and on a good day, you could time Following the Civil War, entre- road interests, had acquired large tracts the dozen traffic lights just right and preneurs began building a number of of pine lands and a town site between Big never come to a complete stop. railroad lines north into the interior, and Little Clam Lake (now Lake Mitchell But by 2001 that had all changed as motivated, in part, by the large tracts of and Lake Cadillac), which originally also the long-awaited expressway extension land awarded by the government as bo- took Clam Lake as its name. Mitchell saw had bypassed Cadillac to M-55, although nuses, and also to supply transportation the possibility of a lucrative lumber-mill motorists still needed to turn west and to the remaining stands of white pine site by utilizing the lakes to float logs traverse part of the city to continue inaccessible by streams. to the mills. He established a mill, and north. Two years later, for most tourists After construction of a road linking soon Clam Lake emerged as a rip-roaring Cadillac had become little more than a Newaygo with Traverse City in 1863, lumber town with numerous taverns and direction sign as the expressway did not Wexford County’s pioneer era began. But brothels to meet the needs of the lumber- reconnect with old 131 until just south as late as 1870, the entire county’s popu- jacks engaged in harvesting the surround- of Manton. Now, that community, too, lation numbered but 650 souls clustered ing timber. is bypassed. predominantly in the northwest portion Other lumbering operations also But Cadillac remains a vibrant of the county. The village of Sherman established saw mills in the town

24 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 The first business establishment in the area was the Clam Lake House, which opened in 1871.

Mitchell had platted. They included O.L. Harris, George Mitchell’s nephews Austin and William Mitchell, known as the Mitchell Brothers, Delos F. Diggins, F.J. Cobb and W.W. Cummer. Cobb and Mitchell and the Cummer-Diggins Com- pany, in particular, grew to become two of the state’s largest lumbering firms. Despite set-backs common to other Cadillac and incorporated as a city. Civic major trade area and legal center. lumber towns, including a fire that de- improvements followed the next year Harvesting pine continued as the stroyed much of the business district in with the first waterworks, a system of dominant economic activity during the 1873, Clam Lake grew lustily during the hollowed wooden pipes. In the summer remainder of the 19th century. However, 1870s. The Grand Rapids and Indiana of 1880, the city’s first telephone was some diversification did occur. Ephraim Railroad not only provided the transpor- installed. A period of rivalry with other Shay, a local lumberman, for example, tation system vital to that growth, but it Wexford County communities during patented in 1881 a specialized locomo- also stimulated settlement of the area by which the county seat was relocated tive. Shay locomotives manufactured in promoting its extensive land holdings. from Sherman to Manton ensued. Then Cadillac and Ohio proved ideal for the In addition, a large number of Swedish in 1882, a mob of drunken “Cadillac- primitive logging railroads because all immigrants who had found employment ers” stormed Manton and kidnapped wheels were powered. in building the railroad later took up the county records. Cadillac emerged as The Toledo, Ann Arbor and North residence in the region. the de facto county seat, thus ensuring Michigan Railroad reached Cadillac In 1877, Clam Lake was renamed its ongoing development as the county’s in 1887 to offer more competitive

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transportation rates. Soon the harvest- Thomas Meglioranza, baritone ing of ice on local lakes became a big Reiko Uchida, piano business. Stored in huge ice houses, and with Abhijit Sengupta, viola insulated with saw dust, the product Saturday, January 22, 2 011 · 8:00 PM was transported to southern Michigan Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU population centers in the summertime. During the winter of 1889–1890, 174,000 Vijay Iyer Trio tons of ice were harvested and stored in Friday, February 11, 2 011 · 8:00 PM the Cadillac vicinity. Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU Fortunes were made by Cadillac il Giardino Armonico lumbermen, and several erected preten- Friday, February 25, 2 011 · 8:00 PM tious mansions as symbols of their suc- Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU cess. During the period 1890-1910, W.W. Mitchell, George H. Mitchell, Delos Dig- TICKETS $35 Zone I, $28 Zone II gins, F.J. Cobb and W.W. Cummer built Under 25 & Students with ID: $5 at the door elaborate Queen Anne and Romanesque [SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY] dwellings, many of which still dot Cadil- lac streets. In addition to conspicuous fontanachamberarts.org consumption, Cadillac lumbermen also 269/382-7774 exerted a positive influence on the com- FOLLOW US munity by donating money and land for With support from NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS and MICHIGAN COUNCIL FOR ARTS AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS civic and cultural improvements. George Mitchell had given land to church congregations and the site of Maple Hill Cemetery in the 1870s. W.W. Cummer built an opera house for the community in the 1890s. He and his business part- 25 YEARS OF CREATIVITY ner, Delos Diggins, also donated land for IN EVERY GLASS. a park. In 1908, the city’s first hospital, Mercy Hospital, was erected through a gift of Delos Diggins and his wife. By the 1890s the vast stands of

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www.encorekalamazoo.com 27 Massie

its product from the thousands of old white-pine stumps that dotted the cut- over land. Beginning in 1905 the Mitchell- Diggins Iron Company used locally produced charcoal to smelt iron ore transported from Manistique. In its heyday, 125 tons of pig iron a day were produced at its blast furnace. By 1907 Cadillac’s 30 factories geared primarily to forest products employed 1,660 people. That year local promoters established the Northern Dis- trict Fair Association at the city’s north side to highlight the region’s agricultural products. Potatoes had first become a major crop followed by grain, livestock and limited fruit cultivation. Much of Wexford County’s soil, however, proved too sandy for prolonged agricultural use. The 1920s witnessed the demise of

the hardwood products industry as most of the local lumber vanished before the crosscut saw. Mitchell Brothers com- pleted their last cut in 1920, and Cobb and Mitchell followed suite six years Endless Summer later. Other entrepreneurs attempted industrial diversification during this pe- The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra and riod. The Acme Motor Truck Company Jeans n’ Classics Beach Boys Tribute manufactured trucks and buses from Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 8 p.m. 1915 to 1932. After the Williams Broth- ers Company folded, the Falk Company Miller Auditorium utilized its plant to manufacture potato flour. It served as a major outlet for local Following the successful “Queen” concert last season, potato growers until it was destroyed by Jeans ‘n Classics returns to pay homage to this amazing era fire in 1947. Other attempts to utilize Ca- with “Good Vibrations,” “Help Me Rhonda,” “In My Room,” dillac’s empty factories and unemployed and so much more. labor force during the 1920s included the Cadillac Malleable Iron Company, estab- TICKETS: Contact any Rotarian or lished in 1922, and the Kysor Company, a manufacturer of automotive heaters call the KSO (269) 349-7759 that moved from Allegan to Cadillac and mention “Rotary” in 1927. Cadillac’s already faltering economy suffered continuing decline during the bleak days of the Great Depression. There were some bright spots, however. The B.F. Goodrich Company took over The KSO and area Rotary Clubs are proud to be joining the old Acme Motor Truck plant in 1937 and began manufacturing molded rubber Contact any Rotarian or visit www.Rotary.org. products for the automobile industry. together to raise money in the �ight to End Polio Now. It expanded dramatically during World

28 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 Misty Mornings

Nature concealed by a secretive shroud, searched and penetrated by the day’s first sun rays with delicate probing. The veil, a fine fabric woven from miniscule droplets of moisture, vaporizes, vanishes, revealing what had been hidden. Shapes mysteriously silhouetted take on their real appearance. A wondrous sight! In spring, summer, and fall, Cummer crates helped bring prosperity to Cadillac beginning in 1905. blankets of fine dew drops gently coat and cover War II to produce vital war material. The federal census of 1980 documented grasses, bushes, and trees, An idea conceived by the Cadillac that Cadillac’s population had increased and can be seen Chamber of Commerce in 1936 proved over the proceeding decade, thereby like crystal clear a major boon to the area’s economy fol- reversing a steady decline since 1950. strings of pearls, lowing World War II. The Caberfae Ski Some 10,000 residents continue to call suspended from Area, initially developed through Civil Cadillac home. the fascinating architecture Conservation Corps assistance, opened Cadillac has turned from harvest- of spider webs. in 1937. Run as a nonprofit community ing trees to letting them stand and In winter time, project on national forest land, Caber- promoting its outdoor splendor, calling when nature slumbers, fae’s ski runs lured increasing numbers itself “city on the lakes, surrounded misty mornings of recreationists who buoyed the by forests, united by rivers, connected become the miracle of frost, local economy. with trails.” In addition to the moun- encapsulating and encasing The post-World War II period wit- tain biking, hunting, fishing, hiking, everything in sight, nessed renewed industrial development cross-country skiing, etc., available in looking like crusts spurred by the creation of the Cadillac the nearby Huron-Manistee National of brilliantly white sugar, Industrial Fund in 1953. The fund at- Forest, no less than nine golf courses icing indeed, tracted new manufacturers such as the encircle the city. sparkling and spectacular. Cadillac Mold & Rubber Company in But when the expressway shunted Wonders to behold. 1961 and Northwood Manufacturing traffic around Cadillac, many a local Company in 1963. By 1967 other diversi- merchant wore a worried look as busi- By Gerhard A. Fürst fied manufacturers had joined older ness plummeted. One pit stop popular firms such as Kysor and St. Johns Table with hunters, a combination service sta- Company to create a booming economic tion and liquor store where you could fill climate. Industrial employment had your gas tank and buy high-octane booze increased 50 percent over the proceeding in one fluid transaction, nearly closed. Gerhard A. Fürst retired from social two years to lower the unemployment As late as 2005, a Chamber of Com- studies and German teaching in the rate to 6.1 percent. merce promotional brochure ignored Kalamazoo Public School District Inception of the Cadillac Industrial the expressway bypass and continued to after 37 years. He was recognized Park in the 1970s brought additional feature maps that still brought U.S. 131 three times by the Kalamazoo business expansion. The decade of the right through the heart of the city. How- Education Foundation with 1980s witnessed further diversified in- ever, many a local resident now wears a “Excellence in Education” awards. His dustrial development, increased tourism smile and has been heard to mutter, “It is poems previously have been published and resort trade and the reestablishment so much easier to cross the street within both English and German. of the importance of forestry products out all those damn downstate tourists such as Christmas trees and pulp wood. clogging the roads.”

www.encorekalamazoo.com 29 Chamber, Jazz, Orchestra Performing Arts & Bands Visual Arts

Plays Fontana Chamber Arts — Fontana presents Thomas Meglioranza, baritone and WMU Richmond Center for “So Far from God” — See the world Reiko Uchida, piano, performing Mahler’s Visual Arts (RCVA) premier of this gripping drama from WMU song cycle, “Rückert-Lieder” and the songs 387-2455 faculty member James Daniel. Jan. 27–29, by Schumann that inspired it. Jan. 22, 8 Feb. 3–5, 8 p.m., Feb. 6, 2 p.m. York Arena p.m. Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU. More Than Skin Deep: Portraits as Theatre, WMU. 387-6222. 382-7774. Socio-Political Commentary — Philadel- “Leading Ladies” — When two Shake- Horn Day — This free concert features phia artist Susan Moore is featured in this spearian actors try to pass as the English Bernhard Scully, Lin Foulk, the Western exhibition. Opens Jan. 13 with a panel dis- nephews of a dying matron only to find Horn Choir and a Mass Horn Choir. Jan. cussion with Susan Moore, Ray DiCapua that the nephews are really nieces, hilarity 29, 6:30 p.m. Dalton Center Recital Hall, and Nancy Froehlich at 5:30 p.m. ensues. Jan. 28, 29, Feb. 4, 5, 11 & 12, 8 W MU. 387-4667. p.m., Feb. 3, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 6, 2 p.m. Civic Radu Lupu in Concert — The Gilmore Auditorium, 329 S. Park St. 343-1313. Keyboard Festival presents Romanian-born Kalamazoo Institute of Arts pianist Radu Lupu in a solo recital playing 349-7775 Musicals & Opera a program of Schumann and Schubert. Jan. 31, 8 p.m. Chenery Auditorium, 714 S. Ukiyo-e Redux: Contemporary Japanese “Ain’t Misbehavin’” — The music of Fats Westnedge Ave. 342-1166. Prints — An exhibition of color wood- Waller comes to life in this electrifying Jazz Concerts — The WMU University block prints of the 20th century. Through musical. Jan. 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 & 29, 8 p.m., Jazz Orchestra and University Jazz Lab April 24. Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m., Jan. 23 & 30, 2 p.m. Band will perform a free concert. Feb. Familiar Surroundings — An exhibition Parrish Theatre, 429 S. Park St. 343-1313. 2, 8:15 p.m. Dalton Center Recital Hall, of works by American originals that devel- W MU. 387-4667. oped personal styles rooted in their local Dance DRUMline Live — Show-style marching environment. Included are works by John bands bring their explosive energy and Marin, Martin Lewis, and Reginald Marsh. Birds sing after athleticism to the stage with musicians Through April 10. Russian National Bal- a storm; why and dancers who will thrill you with their The Wyeths: America’s Artists — An let Theatre — Under talents. Feb. 4, 8 p.m. Miller Auditorium, exhibition of works by three generations of shouldn’t people the direction of Elena WMU. 387-2300. artists in the Wyeth family — N.C. Wyeth, feel as free Radchenko these talented Andrew Wyeth, Andrew’s sisters, Henriette to delight in dancers will perform a Wyeth Hurd and Carolyn Wyeth, and An- whatever sunlight short piece, “Chopiniana” Vocal drew’s son Jamie Wyeth. Opens Jan. 15. remains to them? and the classic, “Romeo ARTbreak — Enjoy informal free lectures & Juliet.” Jan. 23, 3 p.m. Bullock Series — A series of concerts Rose Kennedy and presentations on art-related topics. The Miller Auditorium, WMU. performed by guests of the WMU School Wyeths: A Father and His Family, Jan. 18; 387-2300. of Music. Bach to Broadway, a voice faculty showcase featuring music from Bach to Andrew Wyeth Self-Portrait: Snow Hill, Jan. 25; All Rendered Truth: Folk Art in the Symphony Bellini to Broadway. Jan. 30, 3 p.m. Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU. 387-2300. American South, Feb. 1. Bring a lunch to these 12:15 p.m. sessions. “Verdi Requiem” — The KSO welcomes Miscellaneous special guests the WMU Grand Chorus and Miscellaneous opera star Angela Brown to perform this iconic composition. Jan. 15, 8 p.m. Miller Last Comic Standing Live Tour — From Midtown Gallery — Noir — A Black and Auditorium, WMU. 349-7759. the small screen to the big stage, see the White Show is the theme of this exhibition “Endless Summer” — The KSO Pops hilarious finalists from the television show with artists Mark Finazzo, Paul Mar- series continues with Jeans ‘n Classics, a perform live. Jan. 22, 8 p.m. Miller quart, John P. Morris, Randy Walker, Greg Beach Boys tribute band, joining the KSO Auditorium, WMU. 387-2300. Waskowsky and Jill Taylor Waskowsky. for an evening of classic music. Jan. 29, 356 S. Kalamazoo Mall. 372-0134. 8 p.m. Miller Audit., WMU. 384-97759.

30 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 Art Hop — View the works of local artists. STEPPING BACK Local venues/galleries in downtown Kala- WITH THE ARTS mazoo. Jan. 7, 5 p.m. 342-5059. Ambition is hindered by setbacks, but true greatness overcomes them. In Django Literary Events Reinhardt we find a prime example. At 12, Reinhardt was given his first instru- ment, a homemade banjo/guitar. He was Kalamazoo Public Library a natural talent, and within a few years 553-7809 he was performing on French recordings. But in 1928, at age 18, Django, still living Orpheum Bell in Concert — Hear lul- the gypsy lifestyle of his childhood, was labies, stomps, ballads, gypsy suites, caught in a fire that consumed the caravan and waltzes on a variety of old, acoustic in which he lived. His right leg, which fingering system so that his solos were instruments. Jan. 12, 7 p.m., Central he almost lost, eventually healed.But his all played with only two fingers. But he Library. badly burned left hand, used to finger persevered with his career, even touring in Classics Revisited Book Group — Dis- the strings of his guitar, was irreparable. America with Duke Ellington and oth- cuss “The Adventures of Huckleberry The ring finger and pinky were unable ers — and gained major recognition for his Finn” by Mark Twain. Jan. 20, 7 p.m., to extend, so Django had to create a new amazing talents. Central Library. Teen Filmmaker Festival — Seeking teen-produced and directed films. Many prizes! Learn more/entry form online, www.kpl.gov/teens/filmmakerfest. Films Museums Nature due Jan. 22, 5 p.m., Teen Desk, Central Library. Kalamazoo Valley Museum Audubon Society of Kalamazoo Portage District Library 373-7990 345-9211 329-4544 Identity and the American Landscape: Pileated Woodpecker — John Baumgartner Book Discussion — Discuss “Treasure The Photography of Wing Young Huie — will speak on the topic. Jan. 24, 7:30 p.m. Island” with illustrations by N.C. Wyeth, A retrospective of the artist’s 30-year career People’s Church, 1758 N. 10th St. held in conjunction with the Wyeth including projects that document the exhibit at the Kalamazoo Institute of Art. changing cultural landscape of his home Kalamazoo Nature Center Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Minnesota. Through Jan. 16. 381-1574 Reading and Book Signing — Author Michigan Eats: Regional Culture Kurt Cobb will read from his novel, “Pre- Through Food — Michigan Foodways Eating Locally — A discussion of local lude,” which provides a startling reinter- describes the diverse food traditions found farms, markets, and co-ops in our area as pretation of events surrounding energy around the state with interpretive panels, well as tips for finding sources of local food and the environment. Cosponsored with objects and sound clips. Opens Jan. 22. year-round. Jan. 11, 6–7:30 p.m. Fair Food Matters Jan. 19, 6:30–8 p.m. Music at the Museum — Great music the Deep Sleepers — Join naturalist Katy Reading and Book Signing — Author Bo way it should be — eclectic and performed (Bonjour) Avery to discover who spends Parfet set as his goal to climb the highest live in a fine acoustic listening room. the snowy months sleeping soundly, then mountain on every continent. His book, Deadwood, finger pickin’ bluegrass mu- meet some of KNC’s cold blooded critters “Die Trying,” tells that story; he will dis- sic, Jan. 14, 7:30 p.m.; Celtic Jam Special up close. Jan. 23, 2–3 p.m. cuss it and sign copies. Jan. 23, 1 p.m. Event, Jan. 21, 7:30 p.m. Eat Like You Work in a Health Food Planetarium Programs — The DigiStar Store — Staff from the People’s Food planetarium presents various programs. Co-op and the Natural Health Center will “Seasons of Light,” daily at 3 p.m.; “Mys- Please send notification of activities to: Encore “Events of Note” provide new ideas and a better under- tery of the Missing Moon,” weekdays, 11 350 South Burdick St., Suite 214 standing of how to make great tasting, a.m., Sat., 1 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m.; “Starry Mes- Phone: 383-4433 • Fax: 383-9767 healthy meals. Pre-registration required. senger,” Sat., 2 p.m. E-mail: [email protected] Jan. 24, 6 p.m.

www.encorekalamazoo.com 31 Photos:ron Dundon Al Harris works on a new creation.

L HARRIS HAS TWO GREAT GIFTS —creat- learned to cut, draw, color, paint, sculpt and weave ing art and teaching children. For the last 34 in Harris’ art room. Even more, that room has been a years, while he’s been teaching elementary place where students have been encouraged to try, to art in the Kalamazoo Public Schools, 31 of them spent have fun, to become confident, and, in Harris’ words, at Northeastern Elementary, he’s been able to devote “to have pep in their step when they go out the door.” only summer vacations to creating the portraits in Today Harris and his wife, Paralee, a retired pastels that have garnered so much attention at area school counselor and administrator, have three grown art shows. At the end of this school year, Harris will children and one grandchild. But Al Harris’ journey to retire, freeing up more time for his art, but leaving a Northeastern Elementary started a long time ago. huge hole at the school. Harris was born in Detroit 56 years ago, and his Two generations of Northeastern children have talent showed up early. As a first-grader, he did such

32 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 An Al Harris original. on Dundon on r Photo:

a good job drawing comic-strip characters (Popeye “I didn’t have nearly as much talent as these kids do.” was one of his favorites), that his teacher suggested to After graduating from Mumford High School in Harris’ mother that she enroll him in art classes. That 1971, Harris came to Western Michigan University to suggestion started Harris on the road that would lead study art. He majored in graphics but knew from the to his career. beginning that he wanted to teach, and, specifically, For eight years, young Harris took art classes to teach elementary art. “I had better rapport with the at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). His subject of little ones,” he says. choice in those days continued to be superheroes, Harris spent his rookie teaching years splitting because he loved to draw the muscles and proportions his days among a number of Kalamazoo and other area of powerful characters like the Incredible Hulk and elementary schools. Then, in 1980, he found himself at Superman. Talented as he obviously was back then, Northeastern on Gertrude Street off East Main, and he Harris, today, says as he glances around his classroom, knew he’d found where he wanted to stay.

www.encorekalamazoo.com 33 harris

Northeastern’s 327 students come from Kalamazoo Township and the City of Kalamazoo. The demographics tell the story: About 84 per cent of the students are eligible for full- or reduced-cost lunches, and 64 per cent are minorities, compared to 33 percent across Michigan schools. “I like Northeastern, and I wouldn’t want to be any place else,” Harris says. The socio-economic and family issues at the school are different from some of the other schools in town, he continues, but by teaching there, he feels he has had “a bit of an effect on society.” One way he’s had that effect, his former students, their families and Har- on Dundon on ris’ colleagues agree, is by instilling a r pride and confidence in his students that Photo: Art is displayed throughout Al Harris’s classroom. goes far beyond the colorful walls (and ceiling) of his art room. week with him. In addition, Harris takes When Harris comes to her classroom, Harris says that the art period his show on the road, visiting all the oth- she is free to leave, but she doesn’t. “I is “the only class where children can er Northeastern classrooms to talk about want to watch him and see how he keeps express themselves and not have to score art and artists and to teach students what their attention,” she explains. on a test. No matter who they are, where he calls “the language of art.” Patton says she always has student they live or what neighborhood they’re interns spend time in the art room so from, (the art teacher) can make them econd-grade teacher Kathy Patton they can observe how smoothly Harris feel good about life, about themselves is the only other teacher who has runs his classes. His years have taught and about their families.” Sbeen at Northeastern longer than him a number of tricks that ensure such Harris teaches kindergarten through Al Harris. Patton says that her students smoothness, Harris says. fifth grade, and each class in the school always look forward to their art periods, One of the favorites around North- spends one 50-minute art period each asking her all week, “Is it art today?” eastern is his use of puppets. To reiterate

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34 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 a message, Harris pulls out Sesame Street Muppet Ernie, and stands behind the bulletin board, disguising his deep voice to sound like the puppet. Patton says that some of the tinier students are never too sure that Mr. Harris and Ernie are truly one in the same. “Ernie” then comments on the children’s work or the day’s lesson. Another incentive that Harris has been using for, by his estimate, 25 years or so, is the “art-o-gram.” Each day, Har- ris receives dozens of pictures that his students have drawn at home and have spontaneously submitted to him. Harris chooses six or eight of these drawings each month, basing his choice on class- on Dundon on room behavior (but being careful to in- r clude everyone at some point during the Photo: Even the ceiling is used to display student art in the classroom. year). He mounts the winning drawings on poster board and presents the student the latter group’s brains turn on as dren to explore and to enjoy themselves. artist with tickets that can be redeemed soon as Harris hands them scrap paper. He tells a child who doesn’t want to try: for small treats from Harris’ art-o-gram Both groups — as well as those children “All I want to see is you having fun. You box. “It works like a charm,” Harris says, who are just good at following direc- don’t have to sweat this.” He considers in helping him maintain order in the tions — get praise and encouragement in art to be about movement, “as physical as classroom. Harris’ classroom. a sport.” Through the years, Harris has Harris says that young children are He says he’s careful to recognize all learned much about how children cre- always creative but that by fourth or fifth the children in his classroom, not just ate art. “Some can draw well and copy grade, many start using the eraser more, the budding artists. He holds up the what they see. Others creatively think self-consciously analyzing themselves works that show obvious talent, so the on their feet.” Those in the first group and second-guessing their own ideas. It’s class can appreciate it. “I’ll also hold up are more like draftsmen, he says, while his job, he believes, to encourage chil- the student’s work who is just following

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directions well, or if they’re just doing a good job coloring or painting,” he says. One of Harris’ biggest learning curves, in his three decades of teaching, was, he says, figuring out how to work with the youngest group, the kindergartners. He shakes his head: “Kindergarten teachers should get paid more than anybody else.” The challenge, even for a master of the classroom like Harris, is the short attention span and the fact that the little ones need to be taught the most basic of classroom skills, like listening and raising their hands. Of all the grade levels, Harris has found that kindergarten requires the most planning and preparing. “You have to be up in front of In 2009 Al Harris’s art was on display at the Art Center of Battle Creek. their faces, talking constantly. There’s no relaxing.” money teaching kindergarten,” Harris sons at the DIA influenced him so pro- But kindergartners are also enter- warns. foundly, Harris helps parents take their tained easily, so Harris’ alter-ego, Ernie When Harris finds a child with a children’s potential as seriously as his the puppet, makes frequent appearances budding talent or interest in art, he goes own mother took his. He recommends with that age group. “You’ll earn your the extra mile. Because his own art les- parents of these students explore local Art Education at Its Best Al Harris has high praise for the Kalama- highlight for the students, says Harris, is and ceramics, plus parent-child work- zoo Public Schools’ art department, which the fact that works chosen for the Bron- shops. Classes during the school year are includes 14 elementary art teachers and son show are matted and framed and taught on Saturdays, and summer classes 29 for all grade levels. He says the teach- that Bronson traditionally buys several of and camps are also offered. Scholarships ers from the different schools meet fre- the pieces to display on the walls of the are available for all classes. quently and share ideas, and he believes Children’s Hospital at Bronson. Western Michigan University’s all the students benefit from that. The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts art education program offers Saturday Each year art teachers in the Kalama- has been exhibiting children’s art for Morning Art (SMArt) for children aged zoo Public Schools, like Al Harris, display more than 80 years, and its current 7 to 18 years. SMArt classes meet on their students’ art publicly in two major program, “Young Artists of Kalamazoo WMU’s campus and explore a wide range exhibits: Bronson Methodist Hospital and County,” began about 25 years ago. Each of creative approaches, mediums and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. year between 50 and 60 public, private, techniques. At the end of the eight-week Since 2002 an annual exhibit has parochial and charter schools through- program, student art work is exhibited in brought children’s art to the hallways out Kalamazoo County submit art from the Frostic School of Art Galleries. of Bronson Methodist Hospital. The students in kindergarten through eighth To learn more about the SMArt Bronson show is a collaborative effort grade. Student art, both two- and three- program, visit www.wmich.edu/art/ between Kalamazoo Public Schools, dimensional, is displayed in two galler- academics/arteducation/smart. For more the Kalamazoo Arts Council and the ies on the KIA’s main floor, attracting information on KIA art classes and Bronson Health Foundation. All Kala- thousands of visitors each year. The 2011 scholarships for those classes, visit www. mazoo art teachers are invited to display Young Artists show will be held April 30 kiarts.org. For other art opportunities in up to three pieces of art created by their through May 15. the Kalamazoo area for children, contact students, and the show is up from March The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo until the end of the school year. A offers group lessons in drawing, painting at www.kazooart.org.

36 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 places that give children’s art lessons, spoiled having Mr. Harris as our art and he typically helps about 25 children teacher,” Josh says. “You could always a year get scholarships for lessons at tell that what you were doing mattered to the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (KIA). him. It didn’t matter how much natu- Northeastern principal Sue Chartier ral inclination you had for art. He took points out that, in addition to helping a personal interest in bringing art to children get scholarships, Harris even children and going as far as they would drives them if they have no other way to like to go.” get to the classes. “A number of students Josh says he also learned about art wouldn’t have these opportunities in the history and great artists from Harris. community without Al Harris,” she says. He says that some of his fellow art stu- Barb Scott in the Kirk Newman Art dents today don’t learn until their college School at the KIA is equally impressed art history classes some of the things by Harris: “Every fall and winter term he that he learned from Al Harris delivers scholarship applications here, at Northeastern. and he makes sure they’re perfect. He The fact that Harris is himself an writes letters of recommendation and accomplished artist is not lost on his attaches the student’s artwork for each students, including Josh Higginbotham. child. He delivers everything on time “He was my first personal art hero, and then calls and finds out who the the first great artist I got to interact with winners are, so he can announce it over and learn from,” says Josh. “It’s not just Al Harris and Katherine Johnson, a former student the loudspeaker at school.” the instruction he provided and the model, pose with the portrait he created of her. care he’s shown for us young artists, nother method of encouragement that Harris doesn’t men- Ation but which was revealed by Denise Higginbotham, mother of one of his former students, is that he also shows up at the homes of many of his students, providing drawing paper and pencils if he senses the family can’t afford them. Higginbotham’s son Josh, 26, was in Your stickers should Harris’ art classes 20 years ago. Harris LOOK BETTER says that, when Josh was in fourth or than theirs. fifth grade, he began to notice the boy’s talent and creativity. He mentioned it to Josh’s mother, who was working at Northeastern at the time. Higginbotham remembers that Harris told her of Josh: “He’s really got something special here.” Harris started sending challenging assignments home, which he knew would stretch her son. Soon Josh began Visit taking private drawing lessons, and, to- PortagePrinting.com day, Josh, who graduated from Kalama- to SEE HOW. Call zoo Central High School in 2002, is a student at WMU’s Gwen Frostic School 323-9333 of Art. & ask how. Josh gives a great deal of credit for 1116 West Centre Avenue • Portage, MI 49024 that fact to his elementary art teacher. “Those of us at Northeastern were

www.encorekalamazoo.com 37 harris

but he is also a profoundly talented phy: “My personality, emotions, skills he chooses. Harris describes himself as human being.” and knowledge all come into play during “an inwardly emotional person,” and he Harris acknowledges that the fact the process of creating the work. By en- says he tries to let those emotions escape that he is an artist has an effect in the larging the face, it allows me to explore via his art work. classroom. Some of his pastels are on the medium to a greater extent. The use In 2003, when Harris’ work was display at Northeastern, and he often of pastels, in a painterly-like style, helps on display at the Dogwood Fine Arts chooses students from his classes, or me to create a more realistic image, thus Festival headquarters in Dowagiac, their family members, as subjects for his communicating thoughts and emotions the South Bend Tribune described his portraits. All art teachers should going on inside me through my subject. I work as “luminescent,” and the children put their work in front of the kids,” like art with emotion.” whose faces Harris captured in pastels as Harris says, “so they can see you’re a Harris strives to show the emotions “pensive, joyful, teasing, hopeful.” David real artist.” he’s feeling in the light and shadows, the Baker, director of the Lyons Gallery of Harris’ medium reflects his philoso- placement of the model, and the colors Southwest Michigan College, comment- ed in the same article: “Most of all, I’m impressed by the humanity of the pieces. These aren’t just African-American kids; they’re our kids.” Harris’ pieces have been exhibited throughout the Midwest. He hopes to expand to more distant shows after he retires. He admits to sometimes feeling envious of fellow artists, most of whom exhibit their work in shows about every two years. Because his teaching keeps him so busy, Harris can usually partici- pate in one-man shows only about every five years. Harris has won many awards for his pastels, but his broader contributions to society have also been recognized. In 2009 Al Harris was presented with the International Liberator Award at the annual Juneteenth celebration, hosted at WMU by Ujima Enterprises, a local nonprofit educational organization. The award recognizes educators who meet the community vision of traditional An Al Harris original. African values. His students, Harris says, have helped his art to grow. Through the Optimum Health children he teaches, he says he “gets a true glimpse of the good and bad things Chiropractic Center happening in their homes.” But no matter how favorable the re- 0VSBJNJTUPFEVDBUFBOENPUJWBUFZPV PVS views of his art, the classroom keeps him QBUJFOUT UPUBLFBOBDUJWFBOESFTQPOTJCMFSPMF humble. “Wiping noses and tying shoes JOSFTUPSJOHBOENBJOUBJOJOHZPVSPXOIFBMUI keeps me grounded,” he reflects. BTXFMMBTUIFQFPQMFJOZPVSMJGF One of the most valuable contributions that Al Harris has made to the Northeastern community is undoubt- Call for an appointment today! 269.344.4057 Dr. Craig Stull edly consistency. Patton says she can’t 0BLMBOE%SJWF 1PSUBHFtPQUJNVNIFBMUIDIJSPQSBDUJDFDFOUFSDPN remember the last time Harris wasn’t

38 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 Capucine Sofa

Al’s home studio is filled with clippings about his students, as well as student artwork. Harbour Bay Furniture Co. Stuart, FL and Holland, MI the art teacher and points out that, since they are the longest-serving teach- Downtown Holland · 212 S. River Ave., Holland · (616) 395-5554 ers at Northeastern, no one else on the Open Mon.–Sat. 10:00–5:30 www.harbourbayfurniture.com Encoread-12-10-v2.qxd:Encore 11/8/10 10:59 AM Page 1 staff has ever known another art teacher there. Harris estimates that he taught the parents of about 10 percent of his current students, and he says that he’s had 90 percent of this year’s fifth-graders every Facing a year since they were in kindergarten. The benefits of such continuity are serious illness enormous, as is the fact that, as Patton F also points out, Harris is a strong, male, is never easy. role model for the children, many of whom come from single-parent homes. We understand. “Doing art and teaching,” Al Harris says, “are two totally different things.” Talk to us. Then, looking around his classroom, he adds: “I love being in this room more (269)345-0273 than art.”

The Harris family includes Al, Kim, Paralee, Kia and Alfred III.

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www.encorekalamazoo.com 39 This government building and Malaga’s deep-water port are among the parts of the city that can be seen while ascending the steep incline to Castle Gibralfaro.

F SET PROPERLY, A SINGLE SAIL can pull a ship o’er the newer part of the city with its avenues and casinos, while others seas, but untended sails will set a vessel adrift. In Spain, directed me to quaint Old Malaga. Internet and credit card disconnects could have made me I chose the latter and happened upon Carlos V, a hotel feel like a castaway, but two shoreside people came to the rescue. named after a ruler of the Holy Roman Empire and the Spanish One was Karim, a stranger in Malaga, and the other was Josep, a Empire in the 1500s. Nested in the middle of a block, the estab- long-time friend in Barcelona. lishment was a five-story structure with clean, comfortable, cozy While sailing tall ship Royal Clipper across the Atlantic (see rooms at very reasonable rates. Encore, December 2010), I was electronically out of touch for Not able to get online with my laptop there, I went in search 16 days, so upon disembarking in Malaga, I wanted to contact of a “biblioteca” (library). Instead, at a “locaturio” (Internet café), friends and author clients for whom I was editing book manu- Karim, a 24-year-old computer student from Morocco, found and scripts. fixed the problem in my Internet settings. But, first, I needed lodging. Not having a reservation, I asked For the next five days, I mixed business with pleasure, work- people on the streets for recommendations: Some suggested the ing at Carlos V and taking long walks in this warm, charming

40 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 Alcazaba was built by the Arabs from the eighth to 11th centuries; its name means a walled fortification within a city, which aptly describes this structure of brick and stone on the lower part of Malaga’s tallest hill. Gibral- faro, a castle erected by the Phoenicians in the 14th century, occupies the upper part of the same hill.

ur trek up, via Ostone incline, took us more than two hours. As we climbed, we experienced ever- changing vistas of Renaissance- designed government buildings, a tree-lined boule- vard, and a flower- patterned traffic circle. Near the top, we gazed upon the harbor to the south, the Roman Catholic Catedral de Malaga and surrounding buildings to the west, and a bull- ring amid the city’s modern hotels to the east. At the apex, we Mediterranean community. Whether strolling alone or with Karim, who had offered visited a museum, to relate Arabian influence on Andalusian history, I found the narrow streets and wide roamed through gardens that included plazas to be alive with people of all ages, day and night. cacti and orange trees, and explored Located on the Mediterranean, Malaga is Spain’s sixth most-populous city. It was parapets that featured brick-patterned founded by Phoenicians 2,700 years ago and has seen domain by Carthaginians, Ro- walkways and turrets with arrow loops mans, Arabs, and Spaniards. through which we could see a valley, Romano Teatro, a Roman theater built in the first through third centuries, was homes, and hills inland to the north. buried for nearly two millennia and then rediscovered in 1951. With excavation still We descended on a serpentine path underway, public access was not allowed. toward a long, linear park populated with Looking through a chain-link fence there, we saw about 60 people, perhaps stu- kiosks. The vendors there served food, dents, seated in the upper rows of the semicircular balcony. They appeared minuscule beverages, and wares from distant lands: in comparison to the theater’s stage and orchestra in the foreground and the adjacent Egypt, Argentina, Peru, Brazil, Cuba, edifices of Gibralfaro and Alcazaba that towered behind. Galicia, Alamannia, and others.

www.encorekalamazoo.com 41 Weir

A colorful sign extended a “welcome” in seven languages, displayed the flags of many nations, and marked this park as “Festival Intercultural.” Karim explained that Malaga is a candidate in the Euro- pean Capital of Culture competition. Karim and I purchased dinner, sat on a bench under palm trees, and discussed history, religion, and philosophy as small night creatures chorused about us. Resur- recting Spanish words I had learned long Traveling with Karim to this ancient theater, a group of ago in college, we began to speak in two people visiting provide a sense of scale to illustrate the theater’s vastness, with Alcazaba on the left and the languages. We parted close to midnight, walls of Gibralfaro Castle towering above. but I wasn’t tired and therefore roamed the streets some more. Picasso and Catedral de Malaga. The At Marques de Larios, a pedestrian museum features drawings of nudes, mall, people strolled on a long red carpet minotaurs, and bacchanalia, and the rolled out for a film festival that had end- magnificent stone cathedral, built in the ed the day before, a Sunday. Their path Renaissance style between 1528 and 1782, was lit by ornate street lamps and lined stands nearly 300 feet tall and contains 15 with life-size placards of classic films. chapels and 24 altars. Closer to my hotel, several eating On my fifth and final day in Malaga, establishments were open and serving Karim took me to his mosque. It was a holy patrons both inside and outside in this day, and the inner chamber was nearly full balmy clime, and street washers with a and reserved for Muslims. Because this zeal- high-pressure water hose attached to a ous youth had already attempted to convert municipal truck went about their daily me to his faith, he was disappointed that I nocturnal chore. could not worship next to him. Neverthe- Malaga’s streets are made of con- less, he removed his shoes and went inside trasting shades of marble, stone, and tile while a greeter who spoke impeccable Eng- in artistic patterns of squares, diamonds, lish directed me to a courtyard within the circles, and chevrons. How might they mosque, adjacent to the inner chamber. have influenced Pablo Picasso who was This area had a marble floor lined by New Year... born in Malaga in 1881 and lived there intricately carved Arabian arches and pale until he was 19? sandstone walls adorned with messages Old Problem... On subsequent days, I toured Museo from the Koran. With deference to the

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Traveling with Karim to this ancient theater, a group of people visiting provide a sense of scale to illustrate the custom of Islam, I removed my shoes. theater’s vastness, with Alcazaba on the left and the walls of Gibralfaro Castle towering above. More men arrived, dressed in long Quiet, Comfortable, Affordable “jellabiya,” business suits, and athletic shirts that sported the names of Ameri- Choice Reservations can teams. Kneeling and prostrating Aged Steaks Appreciated on mats, they numbered two or three 375-3650 hundred and prayed loudly while I, not Fresh Fish understanding the words, sat in a corner Dinner from Slow Roasted 5:00pm daily alcove, closed my eyes, and absorbed the Prime Rib rhythm of their chant. RESTAURANT & TAVERN Visit our website at www.greatlakesshippingco.com ne of the prearranged parts Conveniently located at 4525 West KL Ave, east of Drake Road of my trip was to attend the Owedding of my friends Josep and Chus in Barcelona. I took a bus from Old Malaga to the train station where I boarded a high-speed train, part of Look And Feel Your Best. the Spanish National Railway Network “We strive to provide a superior care experience by creating (RENFE), that left on time, traveled at a pleasant personal setting for the nest surgical procedures.” 200 km/h, arrived on time, and provided Body Contouring Breast Surgery complimentary ear plugs, eye shades, Liposuction, Abdominoplasty Augmentation, Reduction, Reconstruction and bottled water for overnight travel. Facial Surgery Facelift, Eyelid Lift, Reconstructive Procedures The next morning, Josep met me at the Brow Lift, Rhinoplasty Burns and Burn Scars, station and escorted me to his home. Skin Rejuvenation Facial Trauma In Barcelona, I discovered that my Fraxel re:store® Fractional Laser credit card companies had blocked my Resurfacing, and Hair Removal cards even though I had previously noti- IPL Treatment of Skin Pigment Abnormalities; fied them I would be traveling in Europe. Small Blood Vessels and Hair Removal; Using Josep’s landline, I called the States Laser and Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion, Skin Medica Products, Latisse and had the cards reactivated, which enabled me to make reservations for later, unplanned parts of my trip. “Now you know the difference between a tourist and a traveler,” Josep said. “A tourist goes with a plan; a trav- 575 W. Crosstown Parkway – Kalamazoo eler has only a destination from which 1IPOF r5PMM'SFF he might not return.” Steven M. Nitsch, M.D. Josep, an entrepreneur whose www.myparkwayplasticsurgery.com company provides turnkey computer Skin care specialist, Julie Powell, brings systems for large businesses, and Chus, 21 years of expertise to our practice. a teacher, live on the fifth, and top, floor

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4341 S. Westnedge Ave., Suite 1205 chatting outside and numerous pedestri- Kalamazoo MI 49008 Left to right - Jill Flipse, CPA, CFE ans patronizing small, close-quartered (269) 343-9700 Ralph Meyer, CPA - Mindy Allwardt, CPA establishments: an auto repair shop with a single garage door, “locaturios” (Internet cafés), clothing and shoe stores, flower retailers, and eateries. “It’s a working-man’s neighborhood,” Josep stated, pointing out a corner bar where, on two evenings, we joined local patrons to cheer Barcelona in national soccer championship games. HeHeilmans While Josep and Chus prepared for NUTS & CONFECTIONS’ their wedding, I walked the site of the 1992 Summer Olympics, a multi-hectare kind of nutty, but in a good way! campus with numerous fields and facili- ties where youth practiced soccer and 1804 South Westnedge Ave • 269-383-1188 • www.nuts2you.com adults played cricket. The promenade outside the Olympic stadium contains wide terraces, curv- 4 3/4" x 2 1/4" ing stone stairways, and water fountains drenched in golden lamplight. There, at sunset, the wind seemed to whisper of physical prowess imbued by the world’s finest athletes of nearly two decades ago. On other days, I visited Antoni Gau- di’s unfinished cathedral, walked through Poble Espanyol, an outdoor architectural :,7+5,&+$5'3,(7 museum of full-size buildings from every region in Spain, and traveled by com- :((.'$<6²DP muter train to Montserrat, a mountain The multi-tiereda terra cotta courtyard outside Barcelona’s Olympic stadium is alive with gold-lit fountains, plantings,8167 HeilmansEncoreAd2Fn and people enjoying the hilltop view. To9.12.07 the left is a communications tower and a [email protected]

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44 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 To reduce its geological footprint, this auto dealership in Barcelona has its showroom on the first two floors of an apartment building. monastery outside Barcelona. at city hall in a matrimonial chapel that Throughout the city, people was as ornate as any church. demonstrated their love of parks and At the reception, Josep’s father, efficient use of space. A car dealership on two of Chus’ uncles, and I engaged in a main thoroughfare, for example, had a challenging conversation in Catalan, minimized its geological footprint by Spanish, French, and English. None of showcasing its vehicles on the first two us knew more than one language well, floors of a seven-story building while the so when one spoke, others translated upper levels were apartment homes with what few words they could. As we gained balconies adorned by bicycles, plants, understanding, our laughter and claps on laundry, and sun shades. the back became idioms in the universal Josep and Chus’ wedding took place language of fellowship and celebration.

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www.encorekalamazoo.com 45 Local Connections INDEx TO ADVERTISERS (Continued from page 31) Bell’s Brewery ...... 26 6JG.QPI the library, Bronson Park, the playground. Borgess Health ...... 11 With their friends they enjoy festivals, Bravo! ...... 5 restaurants, theaters, and the monthly Bronson Healthcare Group ...... 3 Art Hops. “It’s fun to see so many people Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo . . . . 12 having such a good time,” says Linda. Cornerstone Office Systems ...... 42 About safety, Linda says it is not an CTS Communications, Inc ...... 22 issue. She believes people should use Data Constructs ...... 6 care wherever they live, and mentions Dave’s Glass Service...... 23 that especially in the evenings they are a DeMent & Marquardt, PLC...... 25 little more cautious. “We do like having Flipse, Meyer, Allwardt ...... 44 inside parking, but that is as much for the Linda Brown gestures toward cabinets along a wall in the sitting room. She loves this room Fontana Chamber Arts ...... 26 weather and convenience as anything.” because the large windows overlooking the Ric and Linda’s apartment was Kalamazoo Mall let in so much light. Gilmore Enterprises ...... 21 designed by architect Arnie Bunkley, and warm, gas fireplace. They chose to use the Great Lakes Shipping Co...... 43 Linda added the furnishings, most of two extra rooms as a study and additional Greenleaf Trust ...... 2 which came from their previous home, sitting room to add more personal space. Harbour Bay Furniture ...... 39 including two Frank Lloyd Wright tables Their master bedroom is spacious and Heilman’s ...... 44 that belonged to Ric’s parents. The floors bright, due to large windows, and it Heritage Community ...... 27 throughout are maple, and most interior features a roomy master bath. Two outdoor Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan . . . . . 39 walls do not rise to the ceiling, which balconies allow Linda to plant flowers in Jansen Valk Thompson & Reahm ...... 27 provides for openness and light. The walls the warm months of the year. Jeff K. Ross Financial ...... 43 also feature angles instead of squared-off “I am surprised there are not more Kalamazoo/BC Airport ...... 47 corners, and the open kitchen with maple units available downtown,” says Ric, who Kalamazoo Foot Surgery ...... 13 cabinets is an attractive focal point to the expects that eventually more developers KNI/Southwest Michigan Imaging ...... 48 main living area that includes a dining area will step up to increase rental living Kal. Symphony Orchestra Polio Concert. . . . 28 CPF5JQTVQHKV and furniture clustered around a prominent, space, which seems to fill up quickly. Mangia Mangia ...... 45 Midtown Gallery ...... 28 Midwest Communications ...... 44 Miller Auditorium...... 4 You don’t have to go out of your way Around the World Miller Davis ...... 45 Optimum Health Chiropractic Center . . . . . 38 to go out of town. As you make your The Park Club ...... 34 Answer! (question on page 10) Parkway Plastic Surgery ...... 43 winter travel plans, consider the safe, The movie “Troy,” Paw Paw ...... 42 simple, convenient option of the released in 2004, featured Portage Printing...... 37 5CHG this Trojan horse, which, Scholten Kitchen & Bath ...... 5 Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International according to the original Sharp Smile Center ...... 35 storyline in Homer’s YMCA ...... 28 “Iliad,” was a devious Airport. Save gas, parking fees 5KORNG gift that allowed Greek warriors to win the and time and enjoy shorter Trojan War. This horse %QPXGPKGPV stands in Canakkale, We’d love to share your drives, shorter walks and Turkey, near the site poetry with Kalamazoo-area obert Weir of the original city of r readers. Please submit shorter lines.

Troy, on the bank of the Photo: a short personal profile to Dardanelles. Canakkale sits on both sides of this waterway that connects the Black Sea accompany it. with the Aegean Sea, placing part of it in Asia and part in Europe. Canakkale was an Encore Magazine Ottoman fortress known for its pottery, and the name means “pot fortress.” c/o Poetry Editor 350 S. Burdick St., Suite 316 Encore contributor Robert Weir recently returned from a four-month journey to seven Kalamazoo, MI 49007 [email protected] nations, traveling by air, train, and ship. A related article appears in this issue of Encore.

46 ENCORE • JANUARY 2011 6JG.QPI

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