Festival of the arts 2014 program book by Festival of the Arts

February 1-28, 2014 Beat the winter blues with a month-long celebration of art, music, dance, literature and more! All events are held in Big Rapids. Admission to most events is FREE; however, some require advance registration or ticket purchase.

For more information, visit brfota.org.

For additional information, as well as updates about inclement weather postponements or cancellations, visit brfota.org. Please call (231) 592-4022 with questions about any event. Any person needing special accommodations to attend any Festival of the Arts event should call (231) 592-4000 at least 72 hours in advance of the event.

I truly believe that art is about experiencing and sharing beautiful encounters and sublime moments that inspire and lift our spirits to a joyous realm. Festival of the Arts is an enormous undertaking. It requires dedication, organization, and complete belief in all things miraculous. Our community members, town and gown alike, have shown incredible enthusiasm and support in helping make each Festival of the Arts a success. It is my hope and request that you, our dear audience, will actively seek out the individuals that make art happen in our community and join me in sharing your most sincere gratitude for the gifts that those and the FOTA board members freely share. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thank Barbara Ross for endless devotion of talent and time in supporting all things artistic, Jerena Keys for her boundless energy and organizational skills, Steve Sobers for his constant smile and community devotion (as well as chocolate), Ed Mallett for his uncompromising style and artistic creativity, or new board members Anne Hogenson and Nicholas Kuiper for their time, talent and creative voices, in either the written or visual forms. This year, as chair, I have already witnessed beautiful moments with this talented and dedicated group of people as well as with others, such as Pat Heeter, whose dedication to Artworks is indomitable. So many people within our community continue, year-long, to support art and cultural events that deserve our praise â&#x20AC;&#x201C; too many to name individually: Jennifer, Mary, Anne, Dawn, Doug, Ruth, Dave, Jeanette, Sylvia, Julie, Bonnie, Cheryl, Jack, Susan, Susanâ&#x20AC;Ś. In closing, it is also my hope that you, dear audience, are lifted in spirit by the creativity, the engagement, the inspiration, the beauty and the community that is available through the Festival of the Arts. There are beautiful and sublime moments to be found, and I believe the arts are a direct conduit. Please enjoy! Carrie Weis Chair, Festival of the Arts

Although it is still two months away, as I write this in November, the 2014 Festival of the Arts is fast-approaching. Between now and February, we’ll celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. When those celebrations are over, we’ll begin again with the Festival of the Arts. We have much to be thankful for in our community, including the volunteers, artists and sponsors who contribute their time and talents to the month-long event. Why not celebrate? As we end one year and look to start another, I would invite everyone to continue the celebration, and to participate in the 2014 Festival of the Arts. Mark Warba, Mayor, City of Big Rapids

February is the most exciting month of the year in Big Rapids when the city and Ferris State University collaborate to present a month-long Festival of the Arts. Artworks is happy to join this collaboration and to hold many events in our building at 106 N. Michigan Avenue. As you peruse this booklet, take notice of the ways groups have worked together on a wide variety of programs. Here are some examples. 

The Michigan Humanities Council partners with libraries, schools, and other organizations in the biennial Great Michigan Read, to read and discuss a book by a Michigan author. This year’s selection is Annie’s Ghosts by Steve Luxenberg. Artworks’ Novel Tea Series will participate.

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Artworks’ Foreign Film Series will screen four films in February. Free and open to the public, the films will be shown on the Ferris Campus in IRC 120.

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Stage M will present a different twist on a classic story in “Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde” in Artworks’ Intimate Theater setting.

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The Ferris State University Art Gallery will place Andy Warhol’s interactive exhibit “Silver Clouds” in the Artworks Gallery during February. An opening reception, a lecture, and youth and adult Festlabs will accompany the exhibit.

As together we offer the Big Rapids community a full month of the arts, we hope to lift your spirits, inspire your creativity, and get your bodies moving. So, get out there, sign up, join in and have a wonderful time. Alice Bandstra Artworks Board President, 2014

Festival of the Arts 2014 is made possible with major financial assistance by AFSCME ArtWorks Chemical Bank City of Big Rapids Bob and Mary Clark Downtown Business Authority Downtown Development Association Ferris State University Nisbett-Fairman Residences STAGE-M For their support, the FOTA board also would like to thank Arcom Architecture Marian Beadle Big Rapids Cash and Carry Big Rapids Furniture Big Rapids Rotary Big Rapids Towing Blue Cow Chuck & Meredy's Auto Service Country Inn and Suites Crew and Boss Eye Associates Crossroads Charter Academy Currie's BP Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home Delta Kappa Gamma Dental Health Care Associates Doug Haneline Fifth Third Bank John Garlick, DDS GFWC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Big Rapids Susan and Donald Grant Great Lakes Book and Supply Great Lakes Office Products & Business Furniture Inn at the Rustic Gate Isabella Bank

Jerena Keys Lake Osceola State Bank Lerner,Csernai & Fath Financial Group Ed and Adriana Mallett Martz & Shapley Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce Mecosta County Area CVB Miedema Tax Service Mohnke Funeral Home The Old Pioneer Store & Emporium The Pioneer Group Preferred Office Machines/Xerox Steve and Barb Ross Samuels Law Office Schuberg Agency Steve and Helen Sobers Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital Gary Trimarco Automotive Walgreen's Pharmacy Warba Law Offices, P.C. Carrie Weis Wenger Insurance

FestLabs are laboratories of creativity designed by facilitators to advance personal skills, original thinking, imagination and innovation through genre-specific programs designated for specific age groups. Some FestLabs may require advance registration. Please check the event description or visit brfota.org for a full description of genres, facilitators and venues. Youth FestLabs (ages 10-17) are offered Mondays at 5:30 p.m.  Feb. 10  Feb. 17  Feb. 24 Adult FestLabs (18 and over) are offered Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m.  Feb. 11  Feb. 18  Feb. 25 FestLab Genres include  Visual Arts  Language Arts  Music  Movement and Dance  Art History and Architecture  Nature and Wildlife  Technology and Social Media

Monroe String Quartet

Video Game Design

Welding for Artists

Film: “Conrad’s White Birch Lodge”

Patterson’s Floral Arranging Workshop Knitters Anonymous

Ferris Honors Program Art Award Ceremony

Con Brio Voce

Youth FestLabs

Adult FestLabs

Images as Propaganda during WWII

STAGE-M: Dr. Jekyll Northern Bend Eastwood El. Family & Mr. Hyde Computer Simulation Night Welding for Artists Knitters Anonymous

Trees & Shrubs for Small Spaces

BRMS Pre-Festival Concert

Knit-In for Women-Heart Scarf Project

Mountain Town Singers

Youth FestLabs

Adult FestLabs

Five-Minute Fiction Performance

Welding for Artists Patterson’s Floral Arranging Workshop Knitters Anonymous

Ferris Bands and Youth FestLabs Orchestra - Peter vs. Justin Locke the Wolf with Justin presentation Locke and Ferris Theater

Adult FestLabs

The Feminine Creative Process Presentation

Knitters Anonymous MI School Choral Fest

BRHS Pre-Festival Concert

1 Festival Opening Ceremony Silver Clouds Opening Reception Film: “Once”

Grand Rapids Symphony

Salsa Dance Night

Wee Wonders

STAGE-M: Dr. Jekyll & Mr. STAGE-M : Dr. Jekyll Hyde & Mr. Hyde

Fascinating Flamework Glass Demo

MIMA Showcase: Mark Kroos Concert

CCA Winterfest Concert

BRHS One Acts: “Rules of Comedy”

STAGE-M: Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde Crank it Up: Hardy Dam Ramblers Film: “Forgiveness of Blood”

Courtney Piercy

Hawks & Owls:

Wee Wonders

Tuesdays with Todd & BradContra Dance Night Reed: A Michigan Tribute Silk Road Acrobats

Film: “I’ve Loved You so Long” Grateful Artist Workshop

Sky Lantern Launch

Ed Mallett & the Alvin Waddles Trio

Flat River Big Band

Wee Wonders

& Swing Dance Night

Ecumenical Choir Concert

The Great Michigan

Beauty & the Beast

Read

How Does Your Garden Grow

Film: “A Separation” Justin Locke book signing Crank it Up – The Trace

Mike Shansky Concert

Michigan school band & orchestra districts

MIMA Showcase: Jon Walker Concert Band & Orchestra Districts

Festival Closing Ceremony

This contest is about producing and recording an original piece of music or a cover of your favorite band using GarageBand. Winners will be selected by popular vote and will receive a $100 cash award. Please visit brfota.org for all rules and regulations, or pick up a copy of the entry form at Artworks in downtown Big Rapids

This contest is about producing the best skateboard deck design. Design "blanks" are available upon request. Visit brfota.org for more information. Deck designs will be displayed at Artworks lower level and the winner will be selected by popular vote. Winners will receive a $100.00 cash award. Please visit brfota.org for all rules and regulations, or pick up a copy of the entry form at Artworks in downtown Big Rapids

This contest is made up of two parts: writing a good story and telling a good story. Contestants will write and submit their stories. Stories must be original works of fiction and must include references to the Big Rapids area. Judges will select the top stories for the storytelling event. Each story must be able to be read in five minutes (1000 words). Selected authors will be asked to perform their stories. Multiple people can be involved in the performance. The performance must be complete within the five minute time limit. ENTRY DEADLINE: First Round Judging: Final Round Judging:

Friday, February 7, 2014 at 4 p.m. Friday, February 14, 2014 at 5 p.m. Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at 6 p.m.

The winner of each category will receive a $100 cash prize and recognition from the Big Rapids Festival of Arts. Please visit brfota.org for all rules and regulations, or pick up a copy of the entry form at Artworks in downtown Big Rapids.

Saturday, February 1, through Friday, February 28 Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. -5:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Opening reception for exhibit: Saturday, Feb. 1 at 6:30 p.m. (This is a time correction from the printed version of this program.) Artworks 106 N. Michigan Ave. Andy Warhol’s “Silver Clouds,” presented by Ferris State University Art Gallery and Artworks of Big Rapids, is an interactive exhibit that combines light, air, movement and audience participation to create a playful and engaging environment. This exhibit invites the audience to become one with the art -- to walk through, sit and observe, lie on the floor and let the art float through space above you as you reflect and take respite from the stress of daily life. The floating glittering "clouds" are meant to represent space, time, the evening sky and all that is joyful, playful and peaceful. Warhol (1928–87), among the most notable and controversial of 20th century artists, worked in many media, including painting, sculpture, filmmaking and publishing. He is best known for his images of consumer culture icons such as Campbell’s soup cans and pop icons including Marilyn Monroe. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://artworksinbigrapids.org/wp/

Saturday, February 1 6 p.m. (This is a time correction from the printed version of this program.) Big Rapids City Hall 226 N. Michigan Ave. Join us in celebrating the opening of FOTA 2014! Opening Ceremony events will include remarks by the FOTA Board. We also will unveil the next sculpture installation, created by local artists Julie McDonough and Scott Brazeau. It is titled "Kohaku," a symbol of love and friendship as well as the concept of pure will. McDonough and Brazeau will be present during the unveiling to discuss their concept and process as well as how their sculpture is an enchanting representation of the Big Rapids community. The evening will continue with a “Culture Quest.” Enjoy an evening on the town in search of culture! A Culture Quest passport will be available to anyone interested in visiting local businesses hosting artists’ exhibitions. Each hosting business will stamp your passport, to be turned in at Artworks no later than 5 p.m. on February 21, to be entered into a drawing. Only full passports are eligible. One award winner will be announced at the closing ceremony on Feb. 28, 2014. Begin or end this quest at Artworks to view Andy Warhol’s “Silver Clouds” and enjoy hors d’oeuvres and beverages provided by Pere Marquette Catering. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.artprize.org/julie-mcdonough http://www.custommade.com/by/juliemcdonough/ https://www.artprize.org/scott-brazeau https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pere-Marquette-Catering/210023832362445

Saturday, February 1 7 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center, Room 120 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. “Once” is an award-winning 2007 Irish musical drama written and directed by John Carney. Set in Dublin, the film stars Glen Hansard as an Irish busker and Markéta Irglová as an immigrant street vendor. Hansard and Irglová composed and performed all of the original songs in the film. The film won the 2007 Independent Spirit Award for Best Foreign Film. Hansard and Irglová's song “Falling Slowly” won the 2007 Academy Award for Best Original Song, and the film’s soundtrack and “Falling Slowly” also received Grammy Award nominations. The stage adaptation won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Direction of a Musical and Best Actor in a Musical. The film is rated R. The Fabulous Foreign Film Festival continues on Saturdays, Feb. 8, 15 and 22. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Sunday, February 2 4 p.m. First United Methodist Church 304 Elm St. Festival of the Arts 2014 presents a concert of string quartet music presented by members of the Grand Rapids Symphony. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Monday, February 3 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center, Room 120 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. Students in the Digital Animation and Game Design Program at Ferris State University have created multiple video games as part of their study. Using state-of-the-art animation software, complex computer programming and multiple gaming engines, these highly talented students have made their game concept a reality. To help exhibit these new games, faculty and staff in the School of Digital Media collaborated to refurbish arcade cabinets with new technology and graphics. Nick Pattison and Andrew Smith will present an overview of the gamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; development and will provide a demonstration of how they work. After the event, these games will be on display throughout Big Rapids. Go online to brfota.org after Monday, Feb. 3 for a listing of locations. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/statewide/programs/bachelors/digitalanimation.htm

Tuesday, February 4 6 p.m. This event is the first session of a three-session series: Tuesday, Feb. 11, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18, 6 p.m. Swan Building, Room 116 Ferris State University 915 Campus Dr. This introductory welding course is geared toward artists and hobbyists. Ferris State University associate professor David Murray, from the Welding Engineering Technology program, will present this three-week course demonstrating various welding and cutting processes. A great opportunity for those with little or no welding experience, this minicourse will feature such processes as oxyacetylene, gas metal arc and resistance welding, as well as plasma arc cutting. Participants will learn proper techniques and have the opportunity to make their own simple metal sculptures. Class size is limited to 20 participants, so email or call early to reserve your spot. All supplies for the course are donated by the Ferris Welding program. Proper safety gear is required for all participants. You may bring your own, borrow a friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or purchase it at the first session for $25. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Carrie Weis at weisc@ferris.edu or (231) 591-2536. Please do not register if you cannot attend all three sessions For 2014, this workshop is open only to new participants. We appreciate the loyal support for this popular workshop but ask that previous participants allow others the opportunity to take part.

http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/colleges/technolo/design-mfg/welding/homepage.htm

Tuesday, February 4 7 p.m. A repeat of this event is offered on Tuesday, Feb. 18.

Patterson’s Flowers 216 Maple St. Local florist Bob Patterson’s floral arranging workshops have become a favorite offering of the Festival of the Arts. This year, Patterson will offer two workshops that focus on tropical flowers. Participants will learn the basic principles of floral arranging and design using fresh tropical flowers. Patterson’s Flowers,established in 1952 by Donald Patterson, proudly serves the West Central Michigan area with locations in Reed City, Big Rapids and Cadillac. The first and second generations of the Patterson family, and a caring professional staff of more than 52 employees, are committed to offering the finest floral arrangements and gifts. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. There is a $20 fee for this event, payable at the door. Registration is required. To register, contact Patterson's Flowers at (231) 796-8683. A repeat of this event is offered on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m.

http://www.pattersonflowers.com/

Tuesday, February 4 7 p.m. This is the first session of a four-session series: Tuesday, Feb 11 Tuesday, Feb 18 Tuesday, Feb 25 United Church, parlor 120 S. State St. Knitters Anonymous, in four sessions for knitters of all skill levels, invites participants to gather up and bring along their latest projects to knit with other local knitters. Each session will focus on a different aspect of knitting for discussion and sharing. Knitting teachers from Newaygo and Ludington yarn shops will be present to answer questions and demonstrate techniques. Refreshments will be provided. Feb. 4: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cast on and bind off.â&#x20AC;? Bring a favorite technique along to share or be ready to learn new skills. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Participants should bring knitting needles, yarn and an ongoing project.

Wednesday, February 5 7 p.m. (This is a time correction from the printed version of this program.) Interdisciplinary Resource Center, Room 120 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. This 56-minute documentary tells the story of a White Birch Lodge, opened in Elkhart, Mich. In 1958 by Cliff Conrad and operated today by his son, Rick, and grandson, Michael. The lodge is one of a dwindling number of American Plan resorts across the country. The film follows the history, challenges and successes of the family-owned resort, and its operation through the nine-week summer season, as well as daily activities of staff and guests. Families who have visited for four generations discuss why they come back each year. The documentary is a story of, for and about families. A question-and-answer session will follow the screening. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.whitebirchlodge.org/

Wednesday, February 5 7 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center Atrium Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. The seventh annual Ferris State University Honors Art Show will feature work by Honors program students from multiple disciplines. Awards include “Judge’s Favorite” and “View and Text,” a prize chosen by patrons of the event via real-time online voting. With more entries every year, this event has become a popular tradition and an outstanding display of students’ talent. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. http://www.ferris.edu/honors/

Thursday, February 6 7 p.m. The Gate 706 Perry Ave. International guitar champion Mark Kroos plays two guitar necks at the same time with an innovative tapping technique that involves both hands fretting the strings. Originally from Lansing, Mich., but currently based in the Southeast, Kroos has been touring most nights for the past three years, and his live performances burst with energy. Kroos won Guitar Player Magazine's 2011 International Competition and has since shared the stage with guitarists such as Phil Keaggy, Mike Stern and Lee Ritenour. Kroos has released two full-length instrumental guitar albums and a DVD of music videos and live studio performances. His â&#x20AC;&#x153;dueling banjosâ&#x20AC;? video recently received more than one-half million views on YouTube. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and up. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. This event provided in partnership with the Ferris State University Music Industry Management student organization. A $3.00 admission fee is charged at the door.

http://thegatesite.com/ http://www.markkroos.com/ http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/colleges/artsands/musicwebsite/music-industrymanagement.htm

Thursday, February 6 7:30 p.m. G. Mennen Williams Auditorium Ferris State University 820 Campus Dr. The Festival of the Arts welcomes back The Grand Rapids Symphony Established in 1930, the Grand Rapids Symphony has received national recognition for high quality concerts and educational programs. Led by Music Director David Lockington and Associate Conductor John Varineau, the orchestra presents ten concert series with performances designed to capture the imagination of young children and adults alike, featuring a wide range of music and performance styles. The Grand Rapids Symphony presents more than 400 performances each year, touching the lives of some 170,000. Nearly half of those who benefit are students, senior citizens and people with disabilities reached through extensive education and community service programs. The Symphonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Affiliated Organizations include the Grand Rapids Bach Festival, Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, Grand Rapids Youth Symphony and Classical Orchestra, and Grand Rapids Symphony Youth Choruses. The Symphony also provides the orchestra for Opera Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Ballet Company. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://grsymphony.org/

February 6-9 Thursday, Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9 at 2:30 p.m. Artworks, lower level 106 N. Michigan Ave. STAGE-M presents the play "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." Written during the golden age of horror tales, this popular story investigates the complex relationship between good and evil as aspects of both self and society. For mature audiences. This event is not appropriate for children. Ticket prices are $8 for adults, $4 for students. Seats are limited. Tickets are available in advance by calling (231) 592-TIXX.

http://stage-m.org/

Friday, February 7 6:30-10 p.m. Holiday Inn and Conference 1005 Perry Ave. Learn a little rhythm and style with Salsa Dance Night.This event will include 30 minutes of basic instruction on beginner-level Salsa steps. Music and open dance will begin immediately following the lesson. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and up. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Friday, February 7 7:30 p.m. Big Rapids High School, Auditorium 21175 15 Mile Rd. The audience will be given a side-splitting lesson in what’s funny and what’s not funny in this one-act play. In order to prove that the Rules of Comedy work, they are hilariously inserted into one of the most popular tragedies of all time: William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” “The Rules of Comedy” is a physical comedy blow-out with an interesting twist that showcases the cast's ability to handle tragic drama, as well. Playing by the rules has never been so much fun. Presented by the Big Rapids High School Theatrical Arts Department. This event is appropriate for ages 7 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. For more information, contact Big Rapids High School at (231) 796-7651.

Saturday, February 8 10-11 a.m. This is the first session of a three-session series: Saturday, Feb 15 Saturday, Feb 22 Salvation Army 325 Linden St. This three-week workshop series led by Adriana Mallett is designed specifically for young children ages three to five and their parents or guardians. Not only will the children experience a multitude of opportunities to try out their creative impulses with a bit of guidance and control, but parents or guardians can also gain a bit of understanding and direction in encouraging the artistic side of their young ones. Participants should plan to attend all three weeks and bring a smock to each meeting. This event is intended for children aged three to five years who are accompanied by at least one adult. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Adriana Mallett (231) 7960712 or eamallett@gmail.com

Saturday, February 8 1- 5 p.m. Crossroads Charter Academy, Auditorium 215 N. State St. Crossroads Charter Academy Bands will host a Winter Fest Band Concert which allows its middle school and high school bands to perform their Pre-District Festival music. Each band will perform a concert march, a selection from the state list and a selection of choice. At the conclusion of each performance, Don Sherman, retired band director from Evart, will coach each band and offer suggestions to improve their District performances in late February to early March. Bands scheduled to perform include the CCA Middle School and High School bands, as well as Baldwin school bands. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. For more information, contact CCA at (231) 796-6589.

Saturday, February 8 1-4 p.m. Big Rapids Public Safety Building 435 N. Michigan Ave. Kris Miller and son Dan Wall will demonstrate the ancient flamework technique originally called â&#x20AC;&#x153;lampwork,â&#x20AC;? in which glass beads were made over small oil or paraffin lamps. Today, gas torches are used to melt glass around steel mandrels to create beads. Artist-made flamework glass beads are one-of-a-kind, wearable works of art. Miller and Wall have created glass beads for many and teach the hot glass bead class at Artworks in Big Rapids. Miller is an artist and volunteer at Artworks, and her glass bead jewelry and accessory creations are available there, as well. This event is appropriate for all ages.

Saturday, February 8 7 p.m. Crankerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brewery 213 S. State St. The Hardy Dam Ramblers perform old-time fiddle tunes and a collection of acoustic folk instrumentals that span centuries. The band includes Garrison Lewis (fiddle, mandolin and harmonica), Erik White (guitar and mandolin), Al Thayer (banjo and guitar) and Tom Southerland (guitar). These accomplished and diverse musicians will dig up the roots of American music and deliver it in a traditional front porch, Saturday night-fashion. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIoBp62T6vI www.youtube.com/watch?v=_q5IR_DXWWw www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIS9QKKCdDE http://www.crankersbrewery.com/

Saturday, February 8 7 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center, Room 120 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Forgiveness of Bloodâ&#x20AC;? is a 2011 film co-written and directed by Joshua Marston about an Albanian family torn apart by murder. The Fabulous Foreign Film Festival continues Feb. 15 and 22. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Sunday, February 9 4 p.m. Big Rapids High School, Auditorium 21175 15 Mile Rd. Con Brio Voce Chamber Brass, now in its sixth year, is a community ensemble of 28 to 30 performers, including a blend of local community talent, West Michigan area music educators and talented high school and college instrumentalists. CBV performs musically diverse programs that are audience- and performer-friendly, and include everything from Bach to Broadway. The group is under the baton of their founder, conductor, and artistic director, Kent Boulton. Retired Sergeant Major Woodrow English is principal trumpet, national bugler and soloist for the U.S. Army Band's "Pershing's Own" and for the prestigious U.S. Army Brass Quintet. He served for 34 years performing for audiences around the world in venues ranging from presidential inaugurations to mall gatherings for heads of state. English has been the principal cornet for the popular Brass Band of Battle Creek since its formation and is sought after as a soloist and clinician across the country and abroad. He has performed locally with the Washington Chamber Symphony, Classical Brass, Washington Opera and The National Symphony Orchestra as well as countless other chamber ensembles. A native of Coldwater, Mich., English attended high school at the Interlochen Arts Academy before graduating from Eastern Michigan University This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-uXrh36kfI

Monday, February 10 6-8 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center, Room 120 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. Created by students in Ferris State University’s Digital Animation and Game Design program, “Northern Bend” is a multi-screen computer simulation of a 1900s-era Lake Michigan steamer ship. Visitors are invited to interact with the exhibit and meet its creators. The simulation features a captain steering the ship down a Michigan river to the city of Northern Bend. The ship cruises past lakeshore businesses of the era, revealing life at the turn of the 20th century, and navigates through a busy harbor, avoiding other ships and obstacles. Careful navigation determines whether the ship clears the fog or collides with another vessel and sinks, becoming one of the 1,500 documented Great Lakes shipwrecks. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Monday, February 10 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for adults on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Artworks 106 N. Michigan Ave. Like any other skill, creativity must be practiced and actively worked in order to build strength. In this FestLab, facilitator Carrie Weis of Ferris’ Rankin Art Gallery will discuss what creativity is and how it can be applied to everything in people’s lives. Participants will practice techniques that are proven to flex their creative “muscles.”. Participants will be provided with new critical thinking skills and activities to practice which will flex their creative muscles! Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Monday, February 10 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab for adults is available on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Swan Building, Room 212 Ferris State University 925 Campus Dr. This hands-on workshop provides an introduction to the free 3D modeling program Sketchup as it applies to architecture, interior design, furniture design, landscape/garden design, design of games and virtual environments, wood working, jewelry making, ceramics, glass artistry, 3D printing, sculpture, and other threedimensional art forms. The workshop will provide participants with the necessary skills to conceive spaces and objects in 3D, visualizing them in an intuitive and quick manner. It is intended for those with little or no experience in three-dimensional drawing, but who wish to create 3D environments and their own digital models. Facilitator Paul Long will teach participants to get the most from SketchUp as they digitally model objects accurately and efficiently. We will learn by doing, creating a simple model from start to finish. At the end of the course, participants will have the confidence and ability to create original digital models on their own. While this workshop is intended for people with no prior SketchUp experience, registered participants should be comfortable working on a Windows based PC computer (children with adult accompaniment is necessary). Personal computers will not be required for participation. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Artworks at (231) 591-2420.

Monday, February 10 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab for adults is available on Tuesday, Feb. 11 . Heart & Sole Yoga 212 Maple St. Nia is a sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts. It empowers people of all ages and sizes by connecting the body, mind emotions, and spirit. This hour-long aerobic movement class is done barefoot and is set to music. Every class offers a unique combination of moves that correspond with the main areas of the body: base, core, and upper extremities. Nia classes balance form with freedom, encouraging people to personalize the movements making choices for pleasure and comfort. Beginners and athletes alike can adapt Nia to meet their needs by choosing their own intensity levels. Step into your own joyful journey with Nia, and positively shape the way you feel, look, think and live. Done barefoot to diverse and inspiring music, Nia is a transformational movement practice that teaches you to be more joyful, expressive, and alive in your body. Nia is practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and be comfortable dancing barefoot. This class is for youth ages 10-18. Participants must be registered and have consent forms signed by a parent or legal guardian. To register, contact facilitator Lisa Sandin at (231) 592-5289.

http://heartandsoleyoga.com/

Monday, February 10 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for adults on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Arts and Sciences Commons, Card Wildlife Education Center Ferris State University 820 Campus Dr. In 2009, a group of faculty and students from Ferris State University placed a webcam near where osprey had nested on top of a light pole located in the Swan Building parking lot. Over the last five years, the struggles of this pair of breeding osprey have been transmitted worldwide. What have we learned about the osprey? What have they taught us about ourselves? Join Ferris professor Paul Klatt in this FestLab to discuss the answers to these questions and examine the use of other similar cameras to reveal other interesting insights into animal worlds previously uncharted. For ages 7 to 17. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://osprey.ferris.edu/index.html

Monday, February 10 5:30 p.m. Big Rapids City Hall 226 N. Michigan Ave. Professional storyteller Eileen DeLorenzo leads this storytelling workshop for children, helping them explore the power spoken word has in creating images, sharing laughter and imparting important messages. Participants will strengthen speaking and listening skills, develop awareness of the power of verbal and non-verbal communication, broaden awareness and appreciation of multicultural similarities and differences, learn performance skills and create images with language through the art of storytelling. As part of FOTA 2014, DeLorenzo will also provide presentations to local elementary school classes. To learn more about DeLorenzo, visit her blog at classroomstoryteller.blogspot.com or her website at classroomstoryteller.com Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Artworks at (231) 796-2420.

www.classroomstoryteller.com classroomstoryteller.blogspot.com www.lanes.org/hire-a-storyteller-guide

Tuesday, February 11 5 p.m. Eastwood Early Childhood Community Center 410 N. Third St. Join family and friends for a “Create Your Plate” dinner and discover the arts through the eyes of a child. Michigan Child ID will be provided by Masonic Lodge 171, and child vision screening offered by the Big Rapids Lions Club. Children's artwork will be on display, along with “make-it-and-take-it” opportunities. Each classroom will offer a unique experience, with a wide variety of activities throughout the entire building. Participants can also learn more about:  Community Play Group - Early On/ Great Start Home Visits  Early Childhood Special Education Preschool - MOISD  Great Start Collaborative and Parent Coalition  Mecosta Osceola Career Center Preschool  Mid-Michigan Community Action Agency - Early Head Start  North East Michigan Community Service Agency (NEMCSA) Head Start Join the fun with family and friends! This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Tuesday, February 11 6 p.m. Big Rapids Public Safety Building 435 N. Michigan (This location has been changed from the printed program.) The Big Rapids Poetry Group will host a poetry workshop that allows participants to comment on poems in workshop with facilitator Foster Neill. Poems from previous workshops will be read. Participants should bring a pen or pencil and paper. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older.

http://fosterneill.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, February 11 6 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for youth on Monday, Feb. 10. Artworks 106 N. Michigan Ave. Like any other skill, creativity must be practiced and actively worked in order to build strength. In this FestLab, facilitator Carrie Weis of Ferris’ Rankin Art Gallery will discuss what creativity is and how it can be applied to everything in people’s lives. Participants will practice techniques that are proven to flex their creative “muscles.”. Participants will be provided with new critical thinking skills and activities to practice which will flex their creative muscles! This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Tuesday, February 11 6 p.m. A version of this FestLab for youth is available on Monday, Feb. 10 . Swan Building, Room 212 Ferris State University 925 Campus Dr. This hands-on workshop provides an introduction to the free 3D modeling program Sketchup as it applies to architecture, interior design, furniture design, landscape/garden design, design of games and virtual environments, wood working, jewelry making, ceramics, glass artistry, 3D printing, sculpture, and other threedimensional art forms. The workshop will provide participants with the necessary skills to conceive spaces and objects in 3D, visualizing them in an intuitive and quick manner. It is intended for those with little or no experience in three-dimensional drawing, but who wish to create 3D environments and their own digital models. Facilitator Paul Long will teach participants to get the most from SketchUp as they digitally model objects accurately and efficiently. We will learn by doing, creating a simple model from start to finish. At the end of the course, participants will have the confidence and ability to create original digital models on their own. While this workshop is intended for people with no prior SketchUp experience, registered participants should be comfortable working on a Windows based PC computer (children with adult accompaniment is necessary). Personal computers will not be required for participation. This event is intended for adults 18 and older. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Artworks at (231) 591-2420.

Tuesday, February 11 6 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for youth on Monday, Feb. 10. Arts and Sciences Commons, Card Wildlife Education Center Ferris State University 820 Campus Dr. In 2009, a group of faculty and students from Ferris State University placed a webcam near where osprey had nested on top of a light pole located in the Swan Building parking lot. Over the last five years, the struggles of this pair of breeding osprey have been transmitted worldwide. What have we learned about the osprey? What have they taught us about ourselves? Join Ferris professor Paul Klatt in this FestLab to discuss the answers to these questions and examine the use of other similar cameras to reveal other interesting insights into animal worlds previously uncharted. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://osprey.ferris.edu/index.html

Tuesday, February 11 6 p.m. A version of this FestLab for youth is available on Monday, Feb. 10. Heart & Sole Yoga 212 Maple St. Nia is a sensory-based movement practice that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts. It empowers people of all ages and sizes by connecting the body, mind emotions, and spirit. This hour-long aerobic movement class is done barefoot and is set to music. Every class offers a unique combination of moves that correspond with the main areas of the body: base, core, and upper extremities. Nia classes balance form with freedom, encouraging people to personalize the movements making choices for pleasure and comfort. Beginners and athletes alike can adapt Nia to meet their needs by choosing their own intensity levels. Step into your own joyful journey with Nia, and positively shape the way you feel, look, think and live. Done barefoot to diverse and inspiring music, Nia is a transformational movement practice that teaches you to be more joyful, expressive, and alive in your body. Nia is practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and be comfortable dancing barefoot. This class is appropriate for ages 18 and older. To register, contact facilitator Lisa Sandin at (231) 592-5289. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://heartandsoleyoga.com/

Tuesday, February 11 7 p.m. Big Rapids High School, Auditorium 21175 15 Mile Rd. The Big Rapids Middle School seventh and eighth Grade Bands will perform a concert in their preparation for the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s District I Festival. There is no charge for admission to the concerts, though donations will be welcome at our Pre-festival concert. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. For more information, contact Big Rapids Middle School at (231) 796-9965.

Tuesday, February 11 7 p.m. This is event is part of a four-session series: Tuesday, Feb 4 Tuesday, Feb 18 Tuesday, Feb 25 United Church, parlor 120 S. State St. Knitters Anonymous, in four sessions for knitters of all skill levels, invites participants to gather up and bring along their latest projects to knit with other local knitters. Each session will focus on a different aspect of knitting for discussion and sharing. Knitting teachers from Newaygo and Ludington yarn shops will be present to answer questions and demonstrate techniques. Refreshments will be provided. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Participants should bring knitting needles, yarn and an ongoing project.

Wednesday, February 12 7 p.m. Big Rapids City Hall 226 N. Michigan Ave. Cartoons and comic books reached an apex in popularity during the period of the second World War, outselling more serious entertainment magazines of the day such as Life, Time and Look. The value of cartoons as entertainment, artistic and educational vehicles, and how they were used in propaganda will be discussed using comic illustrations taken from the 1940s and beyond. Presenter Dr. Pasquale Di Raddo has published poetry on various chemical themes and an article on the use of comics for the teaching of chemistry laboratory safety. He is the recipient of Ferris State University's 2006 Distinguished Teacher Award. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and up. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Wednesday, February 12 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The Pioneer Group 115 N. Michigan Ave. Participants are asked to bring knitting needles, red yarn and a scarf pattern to join this “knit-in.” Completed red scarves will be donated to the Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit at Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Wednesday, February 12 1 p.m. Mecosta Osceola Career Center, Miller Wing 15830 190th Ave. Renowned garden designer and author Janet Macunovich presents a one-hour program on trees and shrubs for small spaces. According to Macunovich, "There can never be too many plants, but there is frequently too little garden." This event is for the gardener with limited space who understands the importance of trees and shrubs and wants a variety in his or her landscape. Both deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs will be discussed. The Big Rapids Garden Club, the Michigan Garden Club Inc. and the National Garden Club Inc. emphasize the importance of trees in all settings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; forests, rural and urban areas, and home landscapes. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact TLMKozak53@gmail.com.

http://www.gardenatoz.com/about-us/janet-macunovich/

Thursday, February 13 5:30 p.m. Business Building, Room 111 Ferris State University 119 South St. Every Tuesday of 2012, from sunrise to sunset, the father-and-son team of Todd and Brad Reed photographed a Michigan location. Each week, they produced a 7-10 minute movie that consisted of the stunning still photographs they captured, along with HD video footage from the actual shoot. Now, they have taken all 1,014 still images and produced a 400-page hardcover book that weighs eight pounds. Each image in the book has a caption and the metadata describing how it was shot. Glued to the inside of the back cover are two DVD sleeves that hold the movies, slide show and interviews from the entire "Tuesdays" project. The book and DVD set costs $95 and is a must-have for any fan of fine art and the great state of Michigan. For the presentation, the Reeds will present a slide show with 120 of the best images from "Tuesdays with Todd and Brad Reed: A Michigan Tribute," as well as one of the best "Tuesday" movies. A question-and-answer period will follow. The Reeds are eager to share their "trade secrets" and vast knowledge of photography, marketing, design, self-publishing and gallery ownership. For more information, visit ToddandBradReed.com. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

https://www.facebook.com/toddandbradreed http://toddandbradreed.wordpress.com/

Thursday, February 13 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church 304 Elm St. An Evening of Song with Courtney Gilson-Piercey and Friends will feature music from a variety of genres including opera, art song, chamber music, musical theater and jazz. Her accompanist is Sheryl Lott. Gilson-Piercey has performed with such companies as Opera XXI, EuroOperetta Showcase, West Side Opera, and Hudson Opera Theatre in New York City. She has also been a featured performer in productions at The Crane School of Music, Berklee School of Music, Boston University and Arizona State University and is a founding member of ArtSong Rising; a consortium of musicians in Phoenix, Ariz., dedicated to the preservation of the Art Song recital. Currently, Gilson-Piercey is Chancel Choir director at Reed City United Methodist Church and offers vocal instruction in Big Rapids. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://courtneypiercey.moonfruit.com/

Friday, February 14 7-10 p.m. Holiday Inn and Conference Center 1005 Perry Ave. (This is a location change from the printed version of the program.) Old-Time Contra Dance is an opportunity for folks of all ages to learn how to participate in a community dance. All the dances will be taught and slowly walked through by a professional dance caller and instructor before to the start of the dance. The tempo will start out slow and increase as dancers become accustomed to the the flow of this ageless and ancient form of community dance, still going strong in the 21st century. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Show schedule: http://www.hawksandowls.com/Performances.htm Social media: https://www.facebook.com/riverfiddler Email sign-up: http://www.reverbnation.com/#!/brucelinghawksandowls

Friday, February 14 6:30 p.m. The Gate 706 Perry Ave. February 14, 2013, marked the largest global action in history to end violence against women and girls. V-Day's â&#x20AC;&#x153;One Billion Risingâ&#x20AC;? campaign leveraged the strength of its activist network to mobilize over a billion people nationwide, inspiring women and men in 207 countries to come together and rise against violence. February 14, 2014, will see continuation of this effort to raise awareness of violence against women and girls with a rally and sky lanterns launch. All members of the community are invited to join this effort against domestic violence and sexual assault. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://thegatesite.com/

Friday, February 14 7 p.m. G. Mennen Williams Auditorium Ferris State University 820 Campus Dr. China’s Silk Road Acrobats, founded in 2004, provide high quality, authentic cultural entertainment. Their choreography is a fusion of traditional acrobatics and modern dance to music that strikes a balance of hardness and softness, excitment and calmness, and strength and weakness, emulating the Yin Yang concept of traditional Chinese culture. The show is action-packed and intended to keep audiences of all ages at the edge of their seats. Vignettes may include: Hoop Diving, Plate Spinning, Candelabra Contortion, Happy Chef, Hula Hoop Contortion, Straw Hat Juggling, Handkerchief Spinning, Pole Diving This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Presented in partnership with Ferris State University Arts and Lectures. General admission tickets may be purchased at the door and are $7, $5 for students and senior citizens. Tickets also may be ordered online via the “Ticket Box Office” link at ferris.edu/arts.

http://www.class-act.com/acts/chineseacrobats/

Saturday, February 15 1-3:30 p.m. Artworks 106 N. Michigan Ave. Art isn't just for "artists". Art is powerful and the arts can change lives. Discover your inner artist and the magic that can be found in each and every day. Elizabeth Abeel, batik artist and art instructor will explore the power of creativity. Abeel has developed a tool designed to help you discover your inner artist and enhance your view of the world. Come learn the philosophy behind this concept and get a hands on start developing your creativity in the workshop. No prior art experience is needed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just bring a curious mind! You will leave with a kit and all the inspiration you need to continue your journey. Abeel is an award winning Batik artist who has widely exhibited her work over the past 40 years. She has also taught drawing classes for the last 20 years, specializing in teaching those who never thought they could learn to draw. Along with the various art classes she teaches she has conducted numerous workshops on creativity. Last fall she was a keynote speaker at the Michigan Art Education Associations annual conference in Traverse City, Mich. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and up. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Registration and purchase of an art kit for $15 are required for this event. To register, contact Artworks (231) 796-2420. Registration limited to 30 participants.

http://www.artworksinbigrapids.com/ http://www.thegratefulartist.com/

Saturday, February 15 7 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center, Room 120 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. “I’ve Loved You So Long” is a 2008 French film rated PG-13. It follows the story of a former doctor after her release from prison See our other film festival offerings on Saturdays, February 8, 15 and 22. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Sunday, February 16 4 p.m. First United Methodist Church 304 Elm St. The MountainTown Singers, a men's chorus, will present musical selections in the a cappella style. The group is a performing and competing chorus, having earned the honor to represent the Michigan District of the Barbershop Harmony Society at international competitions in Nashville, Anaheim, Philadelphia, Kansas City and Toronto. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.mountaintownsingers.org/

Monday, February 17 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for adults Tuesday, Feb. 18. Bishop Hall, Room 223 Ferris State University 1349 Cramer Dr. With the current revolution in which digital cameras are integrated into many popular devices, people around the world are able to capture video with a click for an initial purchase of only a few hundred dollars. However, with the ease of access also comes the need for quality control. Emmy Award winner and Ferris State University Television and Digital Media Production assistant professor Nick Kuiper will discuss the steps to create a solid story to support the often stunning visuals commercial digital cameras now allow everyone to capture. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Monday, February 17 5:30 p.m. Artworks 106 N. Michigan Ave. In this workshop, participants will learn how a potter creates a mug on the potterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wheel. Following a step-by-step demonstration of clay throwing, participants will be invited to "get muddyâ&#x20AC;? making handles and applying underglazes to a small mug, provided. Mugs will then be fired and may be picked up two weeks after the event. This event is appropriate for ages 10 through 17. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Artworks (231) 796-2040.

Monday, February 17 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for adults on Tuesday, Feb. 18. Big Rapids Public Safety Building 435 N. Michigan (This location has been changed from the printed program.) Foster Neill, a local poet and editor of The Michigan Poet, a print and Web publication, will lead participants in a variety of fun poetic prompts and multi-person writing exercises. Participants will have the option of displaying their work at Artworks for the duration of the 2014 Festival of the Arts. Neill's poems have appeared in numerous literary journals. Participants should bring a paper and pen or pencil. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Foster Neill at (231) 5806657.

http://fosterneill.blogspot.com/

Monday, February 17 5:30 p.m. Quinn’s Music 210 S. Michigan Ave. Quinn’s main instructor Randy Holt will provide an introductory session for acoustic guitar and ukulele. Holt has played and studied music for 20 years and has taught music for 12 years. The guitar session will end with playing opportunities and demonstrations. Parents are invited to sit in on these sessions, but parental supervision is not required. If you have an instrument you’d like to bring, Quinn’s will inspect and tune your instrument for free the week prior to the lab. Registration is required for this event and limited to 15 seats. To register, contact Quinn’s music at (231) 796-5651.

http://www.quinnsmusic.com/

Monday, February 17 5:30 p.m. Artworks, lower level classroom 106 N. Michigan Ave. This FestLab takes the participant through a very brief history and methods of abstract art, concentrating on modern abstraction. Participants will explore post-painterly modern abstraction, including styles ranging from the pour-and-spatter techniques of Jackson Pollock, to the staining, scraping and abrading of modern acrylic artists. Through the study of contemporary abstract artists, facilitator Carrie Weis will teach participants to experiment with techniques that create a better understanding of abstract art and the tools needed to develop their own work. We will also spend time with Andy Warhol’s “Silver Clouds” for inspiration! Registration is required for this event and limited to 15 persons. To register, contact Artworks (231) 796-2040. Parental supervision is required for children younger than 13.

Tuesday, February 18 6 p.m. Artworks 106 N. Michigan Ave. In this workshop, participants will be supplied with damp, wheel-thrown clay objects such as vases or jugs. Following a demonstration of some of the creative options, participants will be able to alter and decorate their pieces. Using clay and underglazes, students in this workshop will learn techniques used by clay artists. Creations will then be dried and fired, and may be picked up two weeks after the event. An Artworks member and local pottery instructor, Berke creates functional pottery with distinctive touches from the natural world. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Artworks (231) 796-2040.

Tuesday, February 18 6 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for youth on Monday, Feb. 17. Big Rapids City Hall 226 N. Michigan Ave. Foster Neill, a local poet and editor of The Michigan Poet, will lead participants in a variety of fun poetic prompts and multi-person writing exercises. Participants will have the option of displaying their work at Artworks for the duration of the 2014 Festival of the Arts. Neill's poems have appeared in numerous literary journals. Participants should bring a paper and pen or pencil. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Foster Neill at (231) 5806657.

http://fosterneill.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, February 18 6 p.m. Artworks 106 N. Michigan Ave. This FestLab is a two-hour slow jam session in which musicians of all skill levels are invited to join fellow musicians and play their favorite tunes. Bruce Ling. of music group Hawks & Owls. will facilitate the session, and each participant may take a turn choosing the next tune. This is a great opportunity for those who don't regularly play music with others to get out and share their favorite songs. This event is appropriate for adults ages 18 and older. Parental supervision is required for children younger than 13.

http://www.hawksandowls.com/

Tuesday, February 18 6 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center, Room 156 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. (The title and presenter for this FestLab have changed from the printed version of the program.) We have access to an ever-increasing variety of video game experiences. The video game business is booming, and individual games have quarter-million-dollar budgets and hundreds of people working on them. You might think it takes too many years of specialized training to become a game developer, but this is simply untrue. Ferris State University instructor Nick Pattison will teach you how to use free tools to begin creating your own video games. Whether you want to start a fantastic new hobby, break into the game industry someday, or simply learn a bit more about how games are made, this workshop is for you!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyvfY1R0YJI

Tuesday, February 18 6 p.m. Artworks, lower level classroom 106 N. Michigan Ave. This FestLab takes the participant through a very brief history and methods of abstract art, concentrating on modern abstraction. Participants will explore post-painterly modern abstraction, including styles ranging from the pour-and-spatter techniques of Jackson Pollock, to the staining, scraping and abrading of modern acrylic artists. Through the study of contemporary abstract artists, we will experiment with techniques that will give the student a better understanding of abstract art and the tools needed to develop their own work. We will also spend time with Andy Warhol’s “Silver Clouds” for inspiration! Registration is required for this event and limited to 15 persons. To register, contact Artworks (231) 796-2040. This event is appropriate for adults ages 18 and older. Parental supervision is required for children younger than 13.

Tuesday, February 18 7 p.m. Pattersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flowers 216 Maple Street Local florist Bob Patterson's floral arranging workshops have become a favorite offering of the Festival of the Arts. This year, Bob offers two workshops both focusing on tropical flowers. Participants will learn basic principles of floral arranging and design using fresh tropical flowers. Patterson's Flowers was established in 1952 by Donald Patterson and proudly serves the West Central Michigan area with locations in Reed City, Big Rapids, and Cadillac. The first and second generation Patterson family and a caring professional staff of over 52 employees are committed to offering the finest floral arrangements and gifts. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. There is a $20 fee for this event, payable at the door. Registration is required. To register, contact Patterson's Flowers at (231) 796-8683.

http://www.pattersonflowers.com/

Tuesday, February 18 7 p.m. This is the third session of a four-session series: Tuesday, Feb 4 Tuesday, Feb 11 Tuesday, Feb 25 United Church, parlor 120 S. State St. Knitters Anonymous, in four sessions for knitters of all skill levels, invites participants to gather up and bring along their latest projects to knit with other local knitters. Each session will focus on a different aspect of knitting for discussion and sharing. Knitting teachers from Newaygo and Ludington yarn shops will be present to answer questions and demonstrate techniques. Refreshments will be provided. Feb. 18: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Knitting with colors.â&#x20AC;? Carrying colors behind your work or up the sides, learn the ins and outs and ups and downs of multi-color work. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Participants should bring knitting needles, yarn and an ongoing project.

Wednesday, February 19 7 p.m. St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church 323 S. State St. (This location has been changed from the printed program.) Performance and Final Round of judging for the Festival of the Arts Five-Minute Fiction contest. This contest is made up of two parts: writing a good story and telling a good story. Tonightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performers have been selected as first round finalists and now must present their work of fiction to an audience. Each story must be performed in five minutes or less. The audience will vote for one winner in each of three categories. Come enjoy original stories and performances focusing on the Big Rapids region and vote for your favorite! Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Thursday, February 20 3 p.m. Artworks, lower level 106 N. Michigan Ave. The Great Michigan Read is a program of the Michigan Humanities Council. The 2013-14 Great Michigan Read title has been chosen: Annie's Ghosts, written by Washington Post Associate Editor and Detroit native Steve Luxenberg. Annie's Ghosts is part memoir, part detective story, and part history. As the author tries to understand his mom's reasons for hiding her sister's existence, he takes readers on a journey into his mother's world of the 1930s and '40s, where he explores how a poor, immigrant family manages life with a child who has special needs. Annie's Ghosts is a story about family secrets, personal journeys, genealogy, mental disability and illness, poverty, and immigration. It is a story of re-framing one's selfunderstanding once a family secret is revealed, providing insight into how our identities are shaped by learning something shockingly new about our family history. Annieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ghosts will be the February book discussed at the Novel Tea Series held in the Art Works lower level. Please read the book in advance and then come join the discussion. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://michiganhumanities.org/programs/tgmr/ http://steveluxenberg.com/content/book.asp?id=story

Thursday, February 20 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church 304 Elm St. Big Rapids musician Edward Mallett joins with Detroit jazz piano legend Alvin Waddles and his trio, with bassist Marion Hayden and drummer David Taylor. The concert program will feature the music of French jazz pianist and composer Claude Bolling, noted for his many “crossover” collaborations with classical musicians. Bolling’s Toot Suite, composed in 1981 for trumpet virtuoso Maurice Andre, will be performed in its entirety, with Mallett performing on a variety of instruments, including euphonium, baritone horn, alto horn, double-bell euphonium and piccolo tuba. The ensemble will also perform selected movements from Bolling’s Cello Suite and Flute Suites. Alvin Waddles and his trio have performed several times in Big Rapids in recent years as part of Mallett’s annual Tuba Bach Chamber Music Festival, quickly becoming audience favorites. Alvin’s mastery of the keyboard and larger-than-life personality are always a treat to behold. All three members of the trio are accomplished classical musicians in addition to their status as three of the finest jazz musicians in the Detroit area and beyond, making them an ideal ensemble for Claude Bolling’s music, which often has them alternating between classical and various jazz stylings. Edward Mallett grew up in Big Rapids, and following twenty years away for schooling, teaching and performing, returned to his home town in 2002. In addition to founding the Tuba Bach festival, he performs regularly throughout Michigan and the U.S., composes and arranges for several ensembles, is involved in literacy programs for elementary students throughout the state, and has served on the Festival of the Arts board since its resurgence seven years ago. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.tubabach.org/abouttubabach.html https://www.facebook.com/alvin.waddles http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AswazefOAQk

Friday, February 21 and Saturday, February 22 7 p.m. Big Rapids High School, Auditorium 21175 15 Mile Rd. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Be our guestâ&#x20AC;? and step into the enchanted world of Disney's Beauty and the Beast Junior, the Broadway Junior version of the Disney classic. Featuring songs from the Academy Award-winning animated feature, this stage version includes music by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr. Menken and Tim Rice. You will be transported to the heart of a quaint French town, where Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young woman, yearns for something more than her provincial life. When her father Maurice becomes lost in the woods on the way to present his latest invention at a local fair, he seeks shelter in an old castle but is soon taken captive by the master of the house, a horrible Beast. Belle surrenders her freedom to save his life and, by taming the Beast, teaches him the meaning of love. This one-act performance is open to the public. Tickets are $2 for students and $4 for adults. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Please contact BRMS at (231) 796-9965 for more information.

Friday, February 21 7 p.m. Crossroads Charter Academy, Auditorium 215 N. State St. Second grade students from Crossroads Charter Academy will perform a musical about how well all need sun and rain in our lives to grow properly, and they give advice for getting rid of the "weeds" that slow us down. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Please contact CCA at (231) 796-6589 for more information.

Friday, February 21 7 p.m. Fraternal Order of Eagles Club 2535 18631 16 Mile Rd. An annual tradition of the Festival of the Arts, the Flat River Big Band returns to Big Rapids for yet another fun-filled evening of Big Band music and swing dancing, hosted at the Eagles Lodge in Big Rapids. An exciting treat for dancers, as well as those who prefer to sit and listen, the Flat River Big Band's swing era sound includes well-known selections from the famous jazz bands of Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman and the Dorsey brothers, as well as contemporary selections from the modern swing repertoire. Fronted by trumpeter Jeff Ayers and announcer Bob Gould, the Greenville, Michigan band regularly appears at music festivals and private engagements throughout western and central Michigan. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://kjhudson.wix.com/flat-river-big-band http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bih5T3-4vag http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5ftxBASgrk

Saturday, February 22 1 p.m. Great Lakes Book and Supply 840 Clark St. Join author Justin Locke, also featured in performance his family concert “Peter vs. The Wolf” as part of the 2014 Festival of the Arts, for a book signing and pick up one of his humorous musings: “Real Men Don’t Rehearse” is the funniest book you'll ever read about orchestras and classical music! This is what it's really like to play in a professional orchestra. Unlike the usual high-minded approach, this is a laughout-loud look at the culture of the certifiably insane people who play notes for a living. Makes the perfect gift for that music lover on your list! “The Principles of Applied Stupidity” are simple but effective "street smart" methods for transcending the limitations of "classroom conditioning" and scholarly learning. These are essential real-world tools and techniques for any manager, either of a company or of your own life. It will show you how to go around gatekeepers, "unfreeze" corporate cultural status quo, be a far more effective negotiator, and inspire your co-workers to maximum effort, all the while making everyone you meet love you because you make them all feel so deliciously superior! “Get in Touch with Your Inner Rich Kid.” If you grew up in a "scarcity environment," you may have developed survival skills that now may actually be preventing you from becoming the rich kid you deserve to be. This book examines the fundamental concepts of "poor kid thinking." It explains how you can overcome the trauma of scarcity and unmet desire, and get in touch with your "inner rich kid." There are lots of books about money management, but most of them are just about arithmetic. This book is about the emotional energy that is expressed with money (and the emotional energy that is suppressed by the lack of it). This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.justinlocke.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMXaknT7Fw0#t=16 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgDLmKr3OzA http://greatlakesbook.indiebound.com/

Saturday, February 22 4 p.m. First United Methodist Church 304 Elm St. Several choirs from around the area, including from Reed City United Methodist Church, St. Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lutheran Church, Third Avenue United Methodist Church, Trinity Fellowship Evangelical Free Church, United Church of Big Rapids and First United Methodist Church of Big Rapids, join forces for the second annual Ecumenical Choir Festival. Each of the participating church choirs will perform individual numbers, and all singers will combine for anthems directed by guest conductor Jane Wright. Jane Wright is the Director of Worship and Fine Arts at Westwood United Methodist Church in Kalamazoo. She holds a Master of Choral Conducting degree from Michigan State University, has been conducting since 1973. She also founded the Lansing Area Ministry of Bells, which promotes the art of hand bell ringing through local festivals and workshops. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Saturday, February 22 7 p.m. Interdisciplinary Resource Center Room 120 Ferris State University 1301 S. State St. “A Separation” follows Nader, Simin and their 11-year-old daughter, Termeh, in Tehran. Simin wants to leave the country, as she does not want Termeh to grow up under the prevailing conditions. Nader is concerned for his elderly father, who lives with the family and suffers from Alzheimer's disease. When Nader decides to stay in Iran, Simin files for divorce. “A Separation” won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2012, becoming the first Iranian film to win the award See our other film festival offerings on Saturdays, February 8, 15 and 22. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Saturday, February 22 7 p.m. Crankerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brewery 213 S. State St. The Trace classic acoustic rock music concert, featuring three part harmonies and songs by Crosby, Stills and Nash, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, etc. This event is appropriate for ages 7 and up. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://thetrace.us/THE_TRACE/WELCOME.html http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-ff4KMfrB8

Sunday, February 23 4 p.m. G. Mennen Williams Auditorium Ferris State University 820 Campus Dr. This clever sequel to Peter and the Wolf shares its delightful music, and is a wonderful musical treat for kids of all ages. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peter vs. The Wolfâ&#x20AC;? has been performed by orchestras all over the world, in such prestigious venues as the Theatro Municipal of Rio de Janeiro, the State Theater of Nuremberg and the Berlin Konzerthaus. Peter vs. The Wolf begins with the sounds of a prison break, with a police radio announcing that the Wolf has just escaped from the zoo. To elude the police pursuit, the Wolf runs into a concert hall, and he pleads his case with the audience. He tells the audience he never ate the duck, claims that he was "framed," and then begins to tell the story of what happened at his trial. He eventually turns himself in, only to discover that he has been pardoned by the governor. But before the show ends, the truth of the matter is revealed to the audience -- in no uncertain terms! The Big Rapids production features the musical forces of Ferris State University's West Central Concert Band, Symphony Band and West Central Chamber Orchestra. This theatrical adaptation features students from Ferris State University's Alpha Psi Omega student theatre honors fraternity. This event is free and appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.justinlocke.com/index.html http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExeHm6CFBIc http://www.ferris.edu/HTMLS/colleges/artsands/musicwebsite/homepage.htm

Monday, February 24 5:30 p.m. Big Rapids Public Safety Building 435 N. Michigan Ave. Participants will use their personal smartphones to learn about the citizen science opportunities and techniques existing to become engaged with scientists, photographers, and journalists around the nation and globally. We will focus on the concept of phenology, and learn its meaning and use to awaken participants to the drastic ecological change occurring around Big Rapids, Mecosta County, and across the Great Lakes, and how it fits into the science and media roles. This workshop will work with you hands on technology to see the potential you have to become change agents and relevant to the natural resource management occurring in Michigan. The landscape ecology of trees, their diseases and invasive insect pests rapidly destroying our yards, streetscapes, and natural forest areas will be highlighted as individual projects to be conducted by interested participants during the growing season as it unfolds. Dr. Scott M. Herron is a professor of biology at Ferris State, a visiting professor of Ethnobotany at University of Michigan Biological Station, and a field botanist with extensive photography experience in multiple formats. He is actively involved in education, research, and outreach across many communities in Michigan and will bring his ecological perspectives to Big Rapids to engage participants with the technology they have, and the opportunities yet to be realized with citizen science across the age spectrum. This event is appropriate for ages 7 to 17. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Please bring your personal technology.

Monday, February 24 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for adults Tuesday, Feb. 25. Arts and Sciences Commons, Card Wildlife Education Center Ferris State University 820 Campus Dr. In this drawing FestLab, Rankin Art Gallery director Carrie Weis will focus on the techniques used to draw features such as fur, nose, eyes, horns, antlers, claws and paws. Participants will reference specimens in the Card Wildlife Education Center to get â&#x20AC;&#x153;up close and personalâ&#x20AC;? with these features. Students will learn the basic concepts of biological classification as it relates to observing and recording (illustrating) characteristics that identify a species. Bring sketchbook and pencils. Registration is required and limited to 20 persons for this event. To register, contact Artworks at (231) 591-2420.

Monday, February 24 5:30 p.m. St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal Church 323 S. State St. Bonnie Jacoby, volunteer and co-chair of the award-winning Picture Lady program, will give an overview of the program and present a sampling of the 80-plus prints. Both students and adults are encouraged to participate in the discussion highlighting Van Gogh, Picasso and some of your other favorites. We may even discover what the hair meant to the Hare. Parents are encouraged to join their children for this FestLab.

Monday, February 24 5:30 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for adults on Tuesday, Feb. 25. Big Rapids City Hall 226 N. Michigan Ave. Foster Neill, a local poet and editor of The Michigan Poet, will lead participants in a variety of fun poetic prompts and multi-person writing exercises. Participants will have the option of displaying their work at Artworks for the duration of the 2014 Festival of the Arts. Neill's poems have appeared in numerous literary journals. Participants should bring a paper and pen or pencil. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Foster Neill at (231) 5806657.

http://fosterneill.blogspot.com/

Monday, February 24 5:30 p.m. Quinn’s Music 210 S. Michigan Ave. Quinn’s main instructor Randy Holt will provide an introductory session for electric guitar and bass. Randy has played and studied music for 20 years and has taught music for 12 years. He will provide basic information needed for the beginner, as well as demonstrations of different styles and techniques. Parents are invited to sit in on these sessions, but parental supervision is not required. If you have an instrument you’d like to bring, Quinn’s will inspect and tune your instrument for free the week prior to the lab. Registration is required for this event and limited to 15 seats. To register, contact Quinn’s music at (231) 796-5651.

http://www.quinnsmusic.com/

Monday, February 24 7 p.m. Holiday Inn and Conference Center, Auditorium 1005 Perry Ave. Justin Locke, featured in performance his family concert â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peter vs. The Wolfâ&#x20AC;? as part of the 2014 Festival of the Arts, provides a keynote presentation about defining the purpose and goals of arts education, laying out a broader vision of its role in society as well as its pragmatic application to business. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.justinlocke.com/index.html

Tuesday, February 25 12:30 p.m. Big Rapids High School, Auditorium 21175 15 Mile Rd. The Big Rapids High School Choirs will host District I MSVMA Choral Festival. Several Big Rapids Choirs will participate, as well as choirs from McBain, Cadillac, Ludington, Baldwin, and Shelby. Admission is free. The BRHS Choirs are directed by Katie McInnis and accompanied by Mary Zook. Currently, there are over 80 students involved in the BRHS Choir program. BRHS Choristers study vocal technique, sight-reading, keyboarding, and music theory. Singers in the BRHS choirs perform music of many styles, historical periods, cultures and languages. BRHS students consistently excel in district and State sponsored vocal events. Throughout the school year, BRHS choir students present a full schedule of formal concerts including fall, winter, solo & ensemble, festival, and spring concerts. Recently the BRHS Choirs were thrilled to participate in a Tuba Bach concert, featuring Rod Dixon, Alreda Burke, Alvin Waddles and the Rackham Symphony Choir. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. For more information, contact BRHS at (231) 796-7651.

Tuesday, February 25 6 p.m. Artworks, lower level 106 N. Michigan Ave. In this guitar flatpicking FestLab, led by facilitator Bruce Ling of the band Hawks& Owls, a common fiddle tune, one that would be played in a jam session, will be taught. This is an "all levels" class. Handouts will be provided and are written in tablature, an easy to read form of music which will be taught at the event. Please bring your own musical instrument and equipment. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.hawksandowls.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7rlUwFmyQc

Tuesday, February 25 6 p.m. Arts and Sciences Commons, Card Wildlife Education Center Ferris State University 820 Campus Dr. This is a drawing FestLab focusing on the techniques used to draw features such as fur, nose, eyes, horns, antlers, claws and paws. Participants will reference specimens in the Card Wildlife Education Center to get â&#x20AC;&#x153;up close and personalâ&#x20AC;? with these features. Students will learn the basic concepts of biological classification as it relates to observing and recording (illustrating) characteristics that identify a species. Bring sketchbook and pencils. Registration is required and limited to 20 persons for this event. To register, contact Artworks at (231) 591-2420. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Tuesday, February 25 6 p.m. Artworks, lower level classroom 106 N. Michigan Ave. Marlies Manning, of Manning Design Landscape Architecture, will host this interactive Lab that explores the similarities between the principles of designing a flower bed and creating a piece of abstract art. Whether you are a visual artist or a gardening guru you will learn how these principles cross over from one genre to another. You will have the option of creating art or creating a flower bed design during the lab. All materials will be provided. Registration is required to attend this event, which is limited to 12 seats. To register, contact Artworks at (231) 796-2420. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.manningdesignla.com/

Tuesday, February 25 6 p.m. Big Rapids City Hall 226 N. Michigan Ave. Foster Neill, a local poet and editor of The Michigan Poet, will lead participants in a variety of fun poetic prompts and multi-person writing exercises. Participants will have the option of displaying their work at Artworks for the duration of the 2014 Festival of the Arts. Neill's poems have appeared in numerous literary journals. Participants should bring a paper and pen or pencil. Registration is required for this event. To register, contact Foster Neill at (231) 5806657. This event is restricted to persons 18 and older.

http://fosterneill.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, February 25 6 p.m. United Church, dining hall 120 S. State St. Take a stroll with Professor Rachel Foulk through the lush gardens of ancient Rome and Pompeii. This illustrated lecture will explore the gardens planted during the time of Julius Caesar and the Roman emperors, and unearth the gardens of the past by looking at archaeological remains, as well as works of Roman art and literature. Paintings and mosaics preserve images of carefully pruned trees, thick shrubberies, trailing ivies, blossoming flowers, and lively birds. These sources as well as writing from the era will allow participants to experience the art of gardening like an ancient Roman. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and up. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Tuesday, February 25 6 p.m. A version of this FestLab is offered for youth Monday, Feb. 24. Big Rapids Public Safety Building 435 N. Michigan Ave. Participants will use their personal smartphones to learn about the citizen science opportunities and techniques existing to become engaged with scientists, photographers, and journalists around the nation and globally. We will focus on the concept of phenology, and learn its meaning and use to awaken participants to the drastic ecological change occurring around Big Rapids, Mecosta County, and across the Great Lakes, and how it fits into the science and media roles. This workshop will work with you hands on technology to see the potential you have to become change agents and relevant to the natural resource management occurring in Michigan. The landscape ecology of trees, their diseases and invasive insect pests rapidly destroying our yards, streetscapes, and natural forest areas will be highlighted as individual projects to be conducted by interested participants during the growing season as it unfolds. Dr. Scott M. Herron is a professor of biology at Ferris State, a visiting professor of Ethnobotany at University of Michigan Biological Station, and a field botanist with extensive photography experience in multiple formats. He is actively involved in education, research, and outreach across many communities in Michigan and will bring his ecological perspectives to Big Rapids to engage participants with the technology they have, and the opportunities yet to be realized with citizen science across the age spectrum. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Please bring personal technology.

Tuesday, February 25 7 p.m. This is the fourth session of a four-session series: Tuesday, Feb 4 Tuesday, Feb 11 Tuesday, Feb 18 United Church, parlor 120 S. State St. Knitters Anonymous, in four sessions for knitters of all skill levels, invites participants to gather up and bring along their latest projects to knit with other local knitters. Each session will focus on a different aspect of knitting for discussion and sharing. Knitting teachers from Newaygo and Ludington yarn shops will be present to answer questions and demonstrate techniques. Refreshments will be provided. Feb 25: â&#x20AC;&#x153;UFO Night.â&#x20AC;? Feb 25: UFO Night. Bring along that project that you are stuck on or have been meaning to finish since forever.. This event is appropriate for ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. Participants should bring knitting needles, yarn and an ongoing project.

Wednesday, February 26 7 p.m. The Blue Cow. 119N. Michigan Ave. Join four of Big Rapidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most creative women for a panel discussion on the creative process. Panelists include Director of Voca Lyrica Ginny Kerwin, popular local actress RoseAnne Shansky, author and Ferris State University professor Betty Stolarek, and local artist Kym Nickolas. This event is hosted by Lynne Scheible, partner in FireStarter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Center for Creative Leadership. For more information about FireStarter, visit firestartercenter.com. This event is appropriate for adults ages 18 and older. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

http://www.firestartercenter.com/lynne-resume.php

Wednesday, February 26 7 p.m. Big Rapids High School, Auditorium 21175 15 Mile Rd. The Big Rapids High School instrumental music program maintains two high school core education performing ensembles - the Wind Symphony and the Concert Band - in which 95 students are enrolled. From this membership, several other peripheral ensembles are formed: Marching Band (a volunteer group), Jazz Ensemble and the Chamber Winds consisting of anywhere from 10-15 various woodwind, brass, and percussion ensembles. In addition, Big Rapids Middle School has three bands grouped by grade level (6, 7, and, 8) enrolling approximately 175 students under the direction of Mr. Allman Todd. The Big Rapids High School Wind Symphony is comprised of students in grades 9 through 12 whose membership is determined by audition. About 10% of these students study instrumental music privately. The Wind Symphony has earned consistent first division ratings at Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association sponsored district and State festivals for over 40 years. The Wind Symphony has been honored to perform at the Michigan Music Conference (formerly the Midwestern Music Conference in Ann Arbor) six times which is unprecedented for a school of this size. The Percussion Ensemble performed for the prestigious Michigan Youth Arts Festival in 2010 on the campus of Western Michigan University and many of the brass and woodwind ensembles have also been honored with MYAF performances over the last few decades. Open to the Public. Admission is free and donations are accepted. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13.

Thursday, February 27 and Friday, February 28 1-4 p.m. Big Rapids High School, Auditorium 21175 15 Mile Rd. Big Rapids High School will once again host the MSBOA District I Band and Orchestra Festival. The first event is at 1 p.m. each day and will feature high school and middle school bands and orchestras from the local area. Open to the Public. Admission is free. For more information, contact Big Rapids High School at (231) 796-7651. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. For more information, contact BRHS at (231) 796-7651.

Thursday, February 27 7 p.m. The Gate 706 Perry Ave. Jon Walker is an independent artist residing in Chicago, Illinois. He was in a number of bands before venturing on the independent road. His most notable venture was with Panic! At The Disco as the bassist. He was touring with the band for about 3 years, and in 2009 he and his fellow bandmate left Panic! to form a new band, The Young Veins. In the winter after "Take a Vacation" came out, Walker demoed a few songs and put together his first EP "Home Recordings". He and his wife sold most of their belongings, packed up and took their dog and two cats to Costa Rica to live for six months. They returned to Chicago, and Walker made another EP. He is currently working on a fulllength album. This event is appropriate for ages 13 and up. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. This event provided in partnership with the Ferris State University Music Industry Management student organization. A $3.00 admission fee is charged at the door.

http://jonwalkermusic.com/ http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/colleges/artsands/musicwebsite/music-industrymanagement.htm http://www.ferris.edu/business/programs/music-industry/independent-showcase http://thegatesite.com/

Thursday, February 27 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church 304 Elm St. A live musical theater performance featuring a variety of singers, actors and musicians performing to the piano accompaniment of Michael Shansky. This event is appropriate for all ages.

Friday, February 28 6:30 p.m. Crossroads Charter Academy, Auditorium 215 N. State St. Join us in celebrating the closing of FOTA 2014! Closing Ceremony events will include presenting awards to our competition finalists and to the recipient of our Culture Quest drawing. Tiyi Schippers of GopherWoods will provide closing remarks and an introduction for the incredible young artists performing for our closing ceremony, including The Accidentals, who will provide an hour concert of their songs. Chocolates provided by Fabinelliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chocolates. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parental supervision required for children younger than 13. About The Accidentals

High schoolers Katie Larson and Savannah Buist are creating quite a name for themselves among music lovers of all genres. Buist, a cellist, and Savannah, a violinist, auditioned for and snagged a coveted spot in the singer-songwriter major at Interlochen Center for the Arts Academy and have written and recorded two albums, played on seven others, scored three films, and landed song placements in several independent films, commercials, documentaries and music compilations. The Accidentals have opened for major national acts and played over 500 live shows â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all while maintaining an average 3.9 GPA. http://www.youtube.com/moreaccidentals http://www.moreaccidentals.com/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67VWfM0OZMM