June 2009
Yeo & Yeo Recieves Governor’s Service Award
Monday, June 29
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm presented the Governor's Corporate Community Leader Award to John M. Kunitzer, President and CEO of Yeo & Yeo, P.C. CPAs & Business Consultants. The Governor also awarded individuals for their exemplary volunteer service at the 2009 Governor's Service Awards ceremony held Thursday, June 19, at the Governor's Lansing residence. First Gentleman Daniel G. Mulhern hosted the event.
The Governor's Service Awards are given annually to individuals, businesses, and organizations to acknowledge their commitment to serving their communities through volunteerism. "Volunteers are the heroes of our state and help to create positive change during these challenging times when many of our fellow citizens could benefit from a helping hand," Granholm said. "The Governor's Service Awards are just one small way to say ‘thank you' to individuals who give of themselves to help make our state a better place to live, work, and grow.”
The Governor's Service Awards recipients were selected from the finalists in each of eight categories. An objective peer review panel and the board of the Michigan Community Service Commission, the organization that manages the event, selected the finalists and winners from among 120 nominations.
The Corporate Community Leader award presented to Yeo & Yeo honors businesses that demonstrate excellent corporate citizenship by giving back to their community through corporate volunteer programs, monetary contributions, in-kind gifts, and employee-driven volunteer service. “Many businesses are involved in community service projects. We are happy to be one of many companies promoting community service,” said John M Kunitzer.
The more than 200 employees housed in nine Yeo & Yeo offices throughout Michigan serve on boards and volunteer for numerous civic, arts and humanities, community, and not-for-profit organizations. Yeo & Yeo employees have contributed more than 15,000 hours of community service during business hours, and more than 13,000 hours have been contributed during employees' personal time.
Yeo & Yeo, P.C. is a certified public accounting and consulting firm that serves individuals, businesses, not-for-profit, education and government entities. Over 200 employees in nine offices throughout Michigan provide professional accounting business solutions. Other Yeo & Yeo affiliates include Yeo & Yeo Computer Consulting, LLC and Affiliated Medical Billing. Offices are located in Saginaw (headquarters), Alma, Ann Arbor, Bay City, Flint, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Marlette and Midland.
Top 10 Money Decisions for Today’s Incoming College Freshman
Monday, June 29
The National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education reported last December that college tuition and fees increased 439 percent from 1982 to 2007 while median family income rose 147 percent. The report also noted that student borrowing has almost doubled since 1998.
The most worrisome statement to come from the report? That if current trends continue, our country might be without an affordable higher education system in 25 years.
This is why it’s crucial to train incoming college freshmen in critical personal finance skills. Before you send your child off to school, make sure you cover the following lessons:
It’s never too early to plan: If you think your words won’t hold enough weight – or you need some guidance yourself – consider bringing in a financial planning professional. It’s never too early to deliver the message that how a child manages his money in college will set the stage for how well she manages it in adulthood. A planner can help a child focus on spending and debt issues in college, but it also makes sense to discuss how your student will save for a home and a car. That might force some smart spending, saving and investing decisions while she’s still in school. Once your child gets the message, consider a meeting for yourself.
Focus on credit: It’s one thing for a teenager to use their parents’ credit card while they’re still living at home. It’s quite another when they get their first taste of freedom hundreds of miles away, often without the parents’ knowledge. Parents should opt to co-sign the student’s credit card but keep it in the student’s name. That way, parents will know when financial missteps occur, which will be a strong incentive for the student to keep his credit rating clean for the next four years. Most important: Parents should do whatever it takes to make sure the child doesn’t sign up for any credit cards on campus where they’ll be bombarded with offers.
Bank smart: Students need to get some familiarity with the banking system before they head to college. Kids generally should set up a checking account on campus, but talk to them about debit options and fees, particularly for overdrafts, which are sky-high at many banks now. Also ask your child to ask the bank about direct-deposit options if you’re planning to deposit money for their tuition or agreed-to spending needs.
Work with them to set up their first emergency fund: A young person should get used to the idea of savings and reserves for unforeseen events such as emergency trips home or related expenses. Make it clear that late-night pizza is not an emergency.
Put the student in charge of maintaining her financial aid: Each year, the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Financial Aid) is due in June. State applications are due earlier. While parents need to run the financial aid process, students need to be equally aware of how their education is paid. Everyone should file the form whether or not you think your child may be eligible, and your child should be searching for scholarships at all times. By the way, legitimate scholarships never charge fees and are typically open to all applicants for consideration. It might also make sense to take your child to your tax preparer to make sure you’re taking advantage of any income tax opportunities.
Make them budget: If they’re leaving for college with a new computer, consider giving them personal finance software to track their everyday expenses and make sure the computer has a security password. (Keeping track of spending by calculator is fine, too.) Work together to determine necessary realities about everyday expenses, tuition and financial aid. Then tell your kid that when he or she comes home at Thanksgiving, you will sit down again to review those figures and make reasonable adjustments. You obviously need to trust your kids, but you might want to do this for as long as it takes them to develop solid and consistent money habits.
Schedule a holiday budget and credit check: When the triumphant freshman returns home for the holidays, schedule some R&R, home cooking and the first reading ever of their fall budget figures and their first credit reports. Since credit reports can be ordered online, parents and student should sit down with each of the child’s three credit reports from Experian, TransUnion and Equifax and review them for activity and errors. Since everyone is entitled to one free report from each of the agencies each year, go to www.annualcreditreport.com for theirs.
Help them open their first IRA: If your 18-year-old child is earning wages by working part-time at school, at home during breaks or for your own company, have them open a Roth IRA in a growth fund. Make sure they understand this is essential to their future savings so they don’t cash it in. Ask your planner about this.
Discuss identity theft. Personal financial data left on laptop computers, cell phones and other electronic devices can be readily stolen on campus or in a dorm or roommate environment. Tell your kid to keep all paper records in a safe place and introduce passwords to keep all their digital information safe.
Get them networking: Internships and jobs in their chosen field during summer breaks can give your student a head start on their career path. Encourage them to research these opportunities freshman year so they’ll be in the front of the line when it’s time to apply.
Handle mistakes carefully: Most kids will make money mistakes in college. If they overdraw a checking account or overdo it with their credit card, make the criticism constructive but firm and always come up with a corrective plan you’ll work on together.
This article is provided by Yeo & Yeo, P.C., CPAs and Business Consultants. For more information, contact Alan V. Lapczynski, CPA at Yeo & Yeo’s Ann Arbor office, 734.769.1331. Yeo & Yeo is a local member in good standing with the Financial Planning Association, producers of the article.
A To-Do List for Settling an Estate
Wednesday, June 29
The adjustment to the loss of a loved one is hard enough without the inevitable workload of settling their affairs. Even if they don’t have much in the way of assets, the process takes time – typically up to a year.
It makes sense to get advice from tax, estate and financial planning experts in the preparation of an estate plan. A financial planning professional in estate matters is a good choice to start the process.
It also makes sense to have an idea of how that year will go, so here’s a list what needs to be done at critical intervals of the process. But this is not just a list to help survivors. This can be a key estate-planning tool for you as well. Remember the way that you handle your estate, financial and funeral arrangements can lighten the load on family members. Tailor the following list to your own needs, and discuss it with your chosen executor while you’re in good health. And if you need to make changes, keep them informed:
Step #1 – Start rounding up key documents: An executor has to find, identify and organize a deceased person’s financial records, tax returns, and other key papers to figure out what the decedent owned or controlled. If that individual was working closely with a financial planner or investment manager, they may have all that material summarized in one place. But otherwise, the executor needs to look for bank accounts, brokerage accounts or other investments, life insurance or annuity policies, retirement plans, deeds to real estate, automobile titles and other evidence of assets with value. She will also be looking to see if the decedent had a will or trust that directs what they want done with the previous items. Also, the executor needs to track down all records of outstanding loans, mortgages or credit card bills. Make sure at least 10-20 copies of the death certificate are ordered. Note: This won’t be done in a day, even if the deceased was extremely well organized.
Step #2 – Start making key phone calls: The executor needs to inform key contacts that the person has died. Make sure they contact:
• Social Security if the deceased was receiving benefits;
• The Veterans Administration if they were a qualified veteran for burial benefits;
• Their employer, health insurer, credit unions, mortgage company and credit card companies for possible death benefits;
• Life insurance agent for possible death benefits;
• Automobile insurance agency if they owned a car;
• All creditors – mortgage companies, credit card companies, any organization that’s owed money by the deceased – needs to be notified that their customer has died. They’ll probably request a copy of the death certificate, so make sure you have enough copies.
Step #3 – Get permission to check safety deposit boxes: If there isn’t a will in an easy-to-find place or an at-home lock box, the executor may need to try and get into a bank safety deposit box, which can take a bit of time. The procedures vary from state to state, but the bank should be able to direct the executor. (NOTE: This is why it’s good to keep important papers in an at-home lock box.)
Step #4 – Getting filing the will for probate: If you find a will, the executor named in the will should be notified, and a decision should be made about whether to file the will for probate. It is usually not necessary to probate a will unless there is property in the name of the decedent that needs to be transferred, so if everything is in joint names with a surviving spouse or surviving children, there may be nothing to pass under the will. This is something for which the advice of a lawyer might be needed. If there is a trust document, the trustees or successor trustees should be notified.
Step #5 – Bring in a lawyer if necessary: The executor may or may not to choose to work with an experienced estate attorney. Generally, it can be a good idea. If there is no will and no trust, the property owned by the deceased will pass to the "intestate" heirs determined under state law, and one or more of those heirs (or some other qualified person) will need to file a petition for "letters of administration" in order to sell or transfer the decedent's property. The procedures for probating a will, or petitioning for letters of administration, vary from state to state, and may require the services of a lawyer.
Step #6 – Make sure bills get paid: The executor needs to make sure that all the deceased’s bills and other outstanding debts continue to be paid until they are disposed of. If assets are insufficient to cover these debts, the executor will have to find another way to pay them or make sure talks take place to lower the amounts.
Step #7 – Make sure taxes are paid: The executor needs to make sure there is a final tax return filed on behalf of the deceased. A federal tax return needs to be filed if the gross estate is more than $3.5 million in 2009.
Step #8 – Make sure assets are properly distributed: The executor, working with estate and tax experts, can determine after all expenses and taxes are accounted for, that all of the assets are distributed properly. Only at that time can the estate be truly closed.
This article is provided by Yeo & Yeo, P.C., CPAs and Business Consultants. For more information, contact Alan V. Lapczynski, CPA at Yeo & Yeo’s Ann Arbor office, 734.769.1331. Yeo & Yeo is a local member in good standing with the Financial Planning Association, producers of the article.
An Evening with Gladys Knight – Buy One Ticket, Get One Free
Monday, June 29
We want to make sure all our festival friends join us on that Midnight Train this Friday night, so as a special perk to all Festival Club members and our loyal supporters, fans can buy one ticket to Gladys Knight concert on July 3rd and get one ticket FREE!
To take advantage of this BOGO, simply call the Ann Arbor Summer Festival ticket office at 734.764.2538 or buy tickets online and use discount code "PIP09" to qualify for this special offer.
Here's your chance to see one of the greatest singers of our time, so c'mon, jump on that BOGO train and get your tickets today... woo woo.
Please note: Not available on premium seats; select price levels only.
Restrictions Apply: Offer expires July 3 at 5pm. Not available night of show. Selected price levels (C, D, E) only. No return or exchanges. Ticket quantities limited. Must mention the discount code: PIP09. Not available with other discounts or on previously purchased tickets. Service fees apply.Second To None celebrates 20 years in customer experience management
Friday, June 26
Today, Second To None Inc. celebrates 20 years as a leading provider of customer experience management services. On June 26, 1989, Second To None began working with restaurant operators to measure, monitor and manage customer experiences primarily through onsite mystery shopping research. The firm has since grown to offer a full suite of services to clients across the U.S. and internationally within the restaurant, retail, financial services, travel, insurance, government and hospitality sectors.
“Two decades ago, just a small percentage of companies were consciously focused on the customer experience as a competitive differentiator. In today’s business environment, it is all about the customer experience”, commented Jeff Hall, CEO and Founder. “We wake each day to help brands deliver authentic customer experiences. We are deeply grateful to our clients and associates in helping us reach this milestone.”
Second To None, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary customer experience and satisfaction measurement firm specializing in mystery shopping research, voice of the customer surveys, operational compliance audits and merchandising services. We assist Fortune 1000 brands in measuring, understanding and optimizing their brand performance across all points of customer interaction through actionable insight. For more information, visit www.second-to-none.com or call +1 734.302.8400.
AATA Announces New, Affordable Fares for Art Fair Shuttle Service
Friday, June 26
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) has announced that this year’s shuttle bus service to the Ann Arbor Art Fairs, which will be held July 15–18, will operate at new rates for its passengers.
The new fares are $1.25 each way for adults; and $.60 each way for K-12 students and AATA Fare Deal cardholders. AATA Senior and A-Ride cardholders can ride for free, as well as children ages five and younger. Full- and half-fare tickets will be sold at ticket booths at both Briarwood and Pioneer High School during shuttle hours.
AATA bus passes, Mcards, Washtenaw Community College transit passes and go!passes are not valid for the Art Fair shuttle service.
Free parking for the shuttles is available near the Sears store at Briarwood Mall, located off State Street and Eisenhower Parkway, and at Pioneer High School, on Main Street near Stadium Boulevard.
AATA Art Fair Shuttles will run every 10 to 15 minutes from 9am to 10pm, Wednesday through Friday, and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
AATA will operate two separate shuttle routes from both the Briarwood and Pioneer High parking locations:
• The Main Street Shuttle route will drop riders off in downtown Ann Arbor at the shuttle bus stop located at Main and William Streets, adjacent to the Summer Art Fair.
• The South University Shuttle route will drop passengers off at the South University and State Street shuttle bus stop located between the South
University Area Art Fair and the State Street Area Art Fair, and close to the original Street Art Fair, the University of Michigan central campus and the Michigan Union.
Art Fair shuttle buses return to both Briarwood and Pioneer High from each boarding location at the fair.
AATA’s Art Fair Link buses will operate around the perimeter of the four fairs from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday. The Link service will operate free of charge.
Brochures containing maps of the shuttle and Link routes, as well as Art Fair locations and other information will be distributed at the shuttle boarding locations and Art Fair information booths.
The AATA shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible, and stroller areas are available on larger buses. For details on AATA’s stroller policy, visit www.TheRide.org or call 734.996.0400.
AATA allows service animals, but not pets, on board the shuttle buses. For those passengers who have purchased artwork, the shuttles can handle reasonably sized packages, but riders should make other arrangements for oversized purchases.
Fairgoers may choose to use local AATA bus routes to visit the Ann Arbor Art Fairs. AATA bus stops are located within one quarter mile of 90 percent of homes in Ann Arbor. For information on using local bus routes to the fairs, visit www.TheRide.org or call 734.996.0400.
Detours of AATA routes around the Art Fairs are also posted on the AATA web site.
For a map and further information on the Art Fairs, visit Ann Arbor Area Convention and Visitors Bureau - The Ann Arbor Art Fairs.
Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Resigns
Wednesday, June 24
The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that Jesse Bernstein has resigned as Chamber President and CEO.
On Monday, June 22, the Chamber Board of Directors accepted his resignation and discussed options for moving forward.
Chamber Board President Dr. Ed Pagani commented, “The Chamber is truly sorry to see Jesse leave, but we wish him the very best in his future ventures. His contribution to the organization, and the community as a whole, has been appreciated and valued.”
The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce plans to conduct a search for a new president. In the interim, the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors will ensure that all Chamber functions and member support activities continue as normal.
The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce is a 1,400-member community non-profit organization that actively facilitates, educates and advocates on behalf of its members through our services and programs. Chamber member offerings include networking opportunities and events, educational seminars, leadership development, member-to-member discounts and access to health insurance.
Ideation Rocks in Cleveland
Wednesday, June 24
The Ideation team has just returned from a successful Member Show in Cleveland at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel. It was an exciting gathering of enthusiastic and optimistic retailers and vendors. Member stores from coast-to-coast came to see and hear what's new for the 2009 fall and holiday seasons.
This year the Fall Tab, Classic Catalog and December Tab will change to a larger format. The vendor and product count is similar to last year but the page size has increased allowing more space for larger, more detailed images. There are seven inserts that can be purchased with any of these publications. In addition, members that purchase the Ideation Classic catalog have the option of receiving the Perfect Solutions holiday catalog at no cost...they pay only the postage fees. "The items in these two catalogs appeal to different audiences," Tom Ungrodt, President of Ideation said, "so it's really a very inexpensive way to reach and attract a broader group of consumers."
In addition to the classic selection of fall and holiday catalogs, Mr. Ungrodt introduced Focus, the newest addition to Ideation's successful collection of catalogs. Focus is a smaller format catalog that features fewer vendors and fewer items per page at a lower price point than the Classic catalog. "We knew that Focus would be something that many of our members needed and wanted, particularly in today's economy and the response exceeded our expectations," Ungrodt said. "There are also five vendor specific inserts featuring some of the most popular artists and products, any or all of which can be added to the Focus catalog making it a very effective marketing tool."
Other highlights at the Cleveland show included presentations on Ideation programs that have, or are currently undergoing improvements and revisions. Among them are paradeofgifts.com, an e-commerce website for Ideation members, PowerPass, a customer rewards program available to Ideation members or any retailer interested in offering their customers rewards for purchases and Print On Demand, a direct mail post card program accessible to Ideation and PowerPass members.
Since 1964, Ideation has provided catalog and marketing services nationwide to independent gift and greeting card retailers, pharmacies, florists, nurseries and any retail business with a gift department. "We are continually working to improve, build on, and add to, the products and services we offer," Mr. Ungrodt said, "and, that's why our members continue to be successful." In addition to his executive role at Ideation Mr. Ungrodt owns three gift stores in
Michigan.
To find out more go to www.ideationgifts.com or view the catalog at www.paradeofgifts.com. You can also contact Tom Ungrodt or Tim Shannon at 734.761.4360.
Michigan Theater to Premiere New Ice Age Movie in Digital 3-D
Wednesday, June 24
The Michigan Theater is pleased to present another family friendly summer film on its new state of the art 4K digital 3-D projection system. Opening Wednesday, July 1, “ICE AGE: DAWN OF THE DINOSAURS,” is the latest installment in the popular animated series capturing the antics of prehistoric creatures Manny, Ellie, Sid and Diego, voiced by Ray Romano, Queen Latifah, John Leguizamo and Denis Leary. The film is rated PG.
The Theater’s presenting partner for the entire run is the University of Michigan Exhibit Museum of Natural History.
The sub-zero heroes from the worldwide blockbusters Ice Age and Ice Age: The Meltdown are back, on an incredible adventure...for the ages. Scrat is still trying to nab the ever-elusive nut (while, maybe, finding true love); Manny and Ellie await the birth of their mini-mammoth; Sid the sloth gets into trouble when he creates his own makeshift family by hijacking some dinosaur eggs; and Diego the saber-toothed tiger wonders if he's growing too "soft" hanging out with his pals. On a mission to rescue the hapless Sid, the gang ventures into a mysterious underground world, where they have some close encounters with dinosaurs, battle flora and fauna run amuck - and meet a relentless, one-eyed, dino-hunting weasel named Buck. Rated PG. *Kids receive FREE coloring books, while supplies last.
"Every bit as exciting as any live-action pic this summer." - Variety
Special ticket prices: $12 Adult; $10 Students, Children, Seniors & U.S. Veterans;
$9.50 Members. Higher prices are the result of a mandatory 3-D fee.
Restrictions: Complimentary passes will not be accepted. Pre-paid film admission coupons will be accepted, with an additional $3.00 3-D fee to be assessed at the door. Gold Card Members will be admitted at no additional cost.
Discount days: All patrons will be admitted for $9 on Wednesdays. Michigan Theater Premium Members will be admitted at no additional cost on Thursday, July 2 and Monday, July 6. U.S. Veterans will be admitted at no additional cost during 4th of July weekend (July 3 - 5), thanks to a gift from the Merton and Regina Allen Memorial Fund.
For daily show times and a complete schedule, please visit the Theater’s website at www.michtheater.org.
About the Michigan Theater
The Michigan Theater is Ann Arbor’s historic center for fine film and performing arts. Winner of the 2006 Outstanding Historic Theatre Award, it is located in downtown Ann Arbor at 603 East Liberty Street, across the street from Borders Books and Music. REGULAR film ticket prices are $9 for adults, $7 for students, seniors and veterans and $6.50 for Michigan Theater members. The theater’s 24-hour information line is 734.668.TIME and the website is www.michtheater.org.
Michigan Theater Honors US Military Personnel with Free Admission for All Movies 4th of July Weekend
Wednesday, June 24
The Michigan Theater is pleased to once again recognize the contributions to our country by members of the U.S. military. Throughout Fourth of July Weekend—Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5—both military veterans and active personnel will be admitted FREE to all film screenings at the Michigan Theater.
The films showing Fourth of July Weekend include “ICE AGE: THE DAWN OF THE DINOSAURS,” the latest in the popular animated series capturing the antics of prehistoric creatures Manny, Ellie, Sid and Diego, voiced by Ray Romano, Queen Latifah, John Leguizamo and Denis Leary. Rated PG.
Opening on Friday, July 3, CHERI paints a picture of the romance between young Chéri (Rupert Friend) and retired courtesan Léa (Michelle Pfeiffer). Stephen Frears, the Oscar-nominated director of The Queen and High Fidelity, continues to demonstrate his genre-defying talent with this adaptation of the Colette novel, set in Paris in the years before World War I. Screenwriter Christopher Hampton previously collaborated with the director on Dangerous Liaisons. Rated R.
Finally, Steve McQueen stars as a hard-driving, tough-as-nails San Francisco cop stars in the 1968 classic BULLITT. The edge-of-the seat thriller's most memorable scene is the celebrated car chase, in which McQueen, an expert automobile and motorcycle racer, does his own stunt driving - at speeds up to 115 miles an hour! Rated PG.
Veterans and servicemen and servicewomen are also eligible for a discounted ticket price of $7 for regular Michigan Theater-sponsored movies all year round. This program is made possible by a generous grant from the Merton & Regina Allen Memorial Fund. The primary purpose of the fund, established through the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, is “to support programming, events and special initiatives for United Sates Armed Forces veterans, with preference to disabled veterans and those who served in action, at the Michigan Theater (a Code Section 501(c)(3) organization).”
For daily show times and a complete schedule, please visit the Theater’s website at www.michtheater.org.
About the Michigan Theater
The Michigan Theater is Ann Arbor’s historic center for fine film and performing arts. Winner of the 2006 Outstanding Historic Theatre Award, it is located in downtown Ann Arbor at 603 East Liberty Street, across the street from Borders Books and Music. REGULAR film ticket prices are $9 for adults, $7for students, seniors and veterans and $6.50 for Michigan Theater members. The theater’s 24-hour information line is 734.668.TIME and the website is www.michtheater.org.
Catalog Sales Dates Extended
Wednesday, June 24
Ideation, the premier gift catalog and marketing company in the U.S., has extended the sale of its collection of fall and holiday gift catalogs. Members have an opportunity to sign up and purchase the October and December Tabs, the new Focus holiday catalog and any inserts for those publications. Deadline for those contracts is Friday, July 17, 2009.
"We know it's difficult for some to make this decision so we're providing more time for our members", company President Tom Ungrodt said. Confident that the economy is beginning to shift upward, Mr. Ungrodt understands the importance of marketing and knows the difference that catalogs make for successful holiday sales.
Printing of the October Tab begins in September with production on all other catalogs following immediately thereafter.
For more information contact Tom Ungrodt or Tim Shannon at 734.761.4360.Ann Arbor DDA Helps Downtown Go Green and Save Green
Friday, June 19
In support of the City’s Green Energy Challenge and the Ann Arbor DDA’s goal to encourage a more sustainable downtown, the DDA announces that it will once again be accepting applications for its Downtown Energy Saving Grant Program. This is the second year the DDA will be providing these grants. Applications are available on the DDA website www.a2dda.org and are due September 30, 2009.
Phase I of the program provides a free energy audit for buildings or businesses within the DDA District measuring less than 41,000 square feet (for larger buildings the DDA will provide up to $5,000 towards the cost of an energy audit.) The audits, conducted by a qualified contractor, will outline a tailored list of recommended energy-saving measures and renewable energy opportunities.
Phase II of the program is the installation of improvements called out in the energy audit. These may include insulation and air-sealing, new heating and cooling equipment, energy-efficient windows, etc. In this program phase, project costs will be shared equally by the business/building owner and the DDA, up to $20,000 each.
The DDA anticipates that the Energy Saving Grant program will help building and business owners find ways to save overhead costs and reduce their carbon footprint through energy efficiency and use of renewable energy, thus making downtown more financially and environmentally sustainable.
This program is the latest in a number of DDA initiatives to promote sustainability as an essential component of downtown development. The DDA plays a significant role in alternative transportation programs by providing 90% of the cost for the go!pass (free bus passes for 6,000 downtown employees), bike hoops and lockers, commuter rail research, Zipcar sponsorship, and the getDowntown Program. Additionally, the DDA provided the funds for the installation of a solar-electric demonstration project at the Farmers Market, the cost for the downtown LED street lights, and downtown sidewalk recycling containers. Last year 47 downtown business and building owners applied for and received energy saving grants from the A2 DDA.
For applications and more information on the DDA’s Energy Saving Grant Program visit the DDA’s website. If your business is located outside the downtown and you are interested in pursuing an energy audit of your own, call the City’s Energy Office for more information at 734.794.6430 x43711.
AATA notified to vacate Arborland
Monday, June 18
After 30 years of providing transit service at Arborland, the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) has received notification terminating the agreement which provided for a bus stop and transfer location in the shopping center, effective July 1.
Over the past year, AATA has worked with Finsilver Friedman Management Corporation of Farmington Hills to successfully resolve the only issue that has been raised, that of bus riders parking close to store entrances. AATA agreed to post signs designating commuter parking areas and to provide on-site staff to monitor the area at critical times.
According to AATA Interim Executive Director Dawn Gabay, about 150 commuters park at Arborland and use AATA bus service to travel to work each day and more than 1,000 riders use the location each weekday.
“AATA has been committed to working with Arborland ownership to find the best solution to this problem,” Gabay said. “The Arborland site is a pivotal transfer location for three bus routes. It provides a safe and convenient off-street location for our passengers to use our system, as well as access to the shopping center for its customers and employees.”
AATA was hopeful that an agreement could be reached that would have been mutually beneficial to the businesses at Arborland, to our riders and to AATA,” Gabay said.
In the short term, AATA plans to locate bus stops near the intersection of Washtenaw Avenue and Pittsfield Boulevard, where there are traffic signals and crosswalks. AATA sees this approach as the best available option for now.
“We contacted the City of Ann Arbor and the Michigan Department of Transportation about development of bus pullouts along the south side of Washtenaw Avenue between Pittsfield and Yost Boulevard, but moving to that site will take approximately a year to plan, obtain permits and construct.”
“Our ultimate concern is providing a safe and convenient bus stop and transfer location for our riders in the highly congested area along Washtenaw Avenue,” Gabay said.
Questions or concerns about this development may be directed to aatainfo@theride.org or 734.794.1880.
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority was chartered in 1969 by the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as a special-purpose unit of government. AATA is supported through local, state and federal funds, and farebox revenues. AATA operates 27 public transit routes, paratransit services, and carpool-vanpool matching and other transportation services to facilitate mobility throughout the urbanized areas of Washtenaw County.
The AAPSEF Announces Scholarship Awards to Students in the Ann Arbor Public Schools
Thursday, June 18
Ann Arbor Public Schools Education Foundation announces scholarships to ten deserving students from Huron, Pioneer and Community High Schools and Haisley Elementary School. The scholarships were awarded to ambitious students who demonstrate outstanding academics and character.
The recipients of the awards are Milan Griffes, Briana Baker, Cailey Miller, Faith Taylor, Shinyoung Chung, Sang Min Lee, Colleen Macke, Sean Mustapha Bonem, Maggie Szemak and Charlotte Grenier.
The Rick Burgess Memorial Music Scholarship Award was presented to Milan Griffes, Huron and Community High School junior.
The Taylor Calhoun Outstanding Cheerleading Scholarship was awarded to positive and enthusiastic Huron High School student, Briana Baker. The award is in memory of scholar-athlete Taylor Calhoun, reflecting her concerns for others and what she would have wanted for all students at Huron.
Cailey Miller of Pioneer High School was awarded the Kacee Cronk Scholarship, an award given to a senior women who displays dedication in both academics and athletics.
The Jill Donnellan Award was given to Faith Taylor of Community High School.
The Lisa Ann Gallagher Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Shinyoung Chung, 2009 graduate of Huron High School, who plans to attend the University of Michigan in the fall.
Pioneer High School’s Sang Min Lee was awarded the Robert E. Lewis Award for being a scholar, student leader and athlete. Robert E. Lewis was part of the 1956 graduating class, who drowned in the Pacific Ocean in effort to save another soldier in 1961.
The Evy Eugene Marvellis Student Leadership Award was presented to Colleen Macke. Macke graduated from Pioneer High School this spring and plans to attend the University of Michigan in the fall.
Sean Mustapha Bonem and Maggie Szemak were both awarded the Peter Stamos Memorial Scholarship, in memory of Peter Stamos, a dedicated Physical Education teacher at Haisley School.
The Alex Tons Scholarship was awarded to Charlotte Grenier, who graduated from Pioneer High School this spring.
For additional information on 2009 Scholarship Awards, contact Wendy Correll.
About AAPSEF
AAPSEF is committed to helping all Ann Arbor Public Schools students achieve their highest potential by providing community support for innovative and excellent educational opportunities within the Ann Arbor Public Schools.
Independence Day Transit Schedule Announced
Thursday, June 18
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority will not operate regular fixed-route bus service, A-Ride paratransit, or senior taxi services on Saturday, July 4, 2009 in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Regular bus, paratransit and senior taxi services will resume on Sunday, July 5.
AATA administrative offices at 2700 South Industrial Highway will be open on Friday, July 3 and Monday, July 6. The Blake and Ypsilanti Transit Centers will also be closed on July 4 and reopen for regular business hours on July 6.
Passengers may take advantage of AATA’s Holiday Ride shared-ride taxi service on July 4 for $5 a person. Seniors and persons with disabilities with an AATA identification card may ride for $2.50.
The Holiday Ride taxi service operates only within the city limits of Ann Arbor. To schedule a Holiday Ride trip, call 734.528.5432.
Bus route, schedule and detour information is available at 734.996.0400 or on AATA’s website.
AATA board appoints Michael Ford pending contract acceptance
Thursday, June 18
A vote to appoint CEO candidate Michael Ford was passed unanimously by the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (AATA) board of directors at its meeting last night.
The action supports the appointment of Ford as AATA’s chief executive officer effective July 6 or as soon thereafter as mutually agreed upon, subject to Ford’s acceptance of a final written contract offered by AATA.
The motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote of the five attending board members. Jesse Bernstein and Paul Ajegba were absent from the meeting.
The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority was chartered in 1969 by the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, as a special-purpose unit of government. AATA is supported through local, state and federal funds, and farebox revenues. AATA operates 27 public transit routes, paratransit services, and carpool-vanpool matching and other transportation services to facilitate mobility throughout the urbanized areas of Washtenaw County.
Innovative Family Law Center Opens in Brighton
Monday, June 15
The family law firm of Nichols, Sacks, Slank, Sendelbach & Buiteweg, P.C. announces the opening of its new Family Mediation & Collaborative Practice Center in Livingston County. The Center, at 720 West Grand River in downtown Brighton, will focus on affordable, out-of-court family law options. Eileen J. Slank, a partner in the firm, explains: “Mediation and collaborative practice are important new trends in family law. Many people across the U.S., from celebrities to people of modest means, are seeking a more private way to resolve their differences while protecting their families. Our firm is committed to leading the way in introducing these innovative approaches in Livingston County.”
The Family Mediation & Collaborative Practice Center will be headed by Livingston County-based attorneys Jamie O’Brien and Denise Couling. The Center will also offer access to the full range of firm’s traditional family law services.
Nichols, Sacks, Slank, Sendelbach & Buiteweg, P.C., with offices in Ann Arbor and Brighton, focuses on family law, mediation and estate planning. The firm’s website is www.nsssb.com and the site for the new Family Mediation & Collaborative Practice Center is www.FamilyMediationCollaborativePractice.com.
Saline-based HSA to Build “Aging in Place” Addition for Home in Webster Township
Thursday, June 11
Homeowner Services of America, Inc. has been selected to design and build an “aging in place” addition for a home in Webster Township, MI.
Saline-based HSA, as one of its remodeling specialties, modifies homes for safe, comfortable living by senior citizens and physically challenged people.
David Rhoads, HSA’s founder, owner, and president, is recognized as a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) by the National Association of Home Builders. NAHB created the CAPS certification in collaboration with the American Association of Retired People.
The Webster Township project is the latest of several “aging in place” remodels that HSA now has in progress or has recently completed for clients. It is also HSA’s second major remodeling project for the Webster Township homeowner; the firm completed another addition to the same home in 2004.
How “Aging in Place” Works
Rhoads defines “aging in place” as “living in your home safely, independently, and comfortably regardless of your age or physical ability.” He adds, “Most current homes are not well designed for aging occupants. In an ‘aging in place’ remodel, we adapt an existing home so people of advancing age can remain there and not have to move to assisted living facilities.”
What does a typical “aging in place” remodel entail? Per Rhoads, “We especially look at how the residents can get safely and securely in and out of the house, then move around the house freely. We also explore changes to the kitchen for easier meal preparation and eating. Another key consideration is the bathroom – the number one place for accidents in the home, regardless of the residents’ ages.”
Details on how HSA modifies homes for “aging in place” can be found at online.
About HSA
Since 1985, HSA has successfully completed over 600 remodeling projects for homeowners in the Saline and Ann Arbor areas, and throughout Southeast Michigan. The company specializes in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and additions, as well as “Aging in Place” projects.
Ann Arbor DDA to roll out innovative parking system downtown
Wednesday, June 10
The Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is using everything under the sun to make parking downtown more convenient … including sunlight.
The new eco-friendly parking system – christened e-park – will roll out June 15th and feature solar powered stations. The system will let you pay for parking from any parking station, or, even easier, by cell phone by dialing 1.888.450.park (7275).
Over The next few years, parking meters will be replaced with multispace e-park stations. This rollout begins with 25 conveniently located stations placed in the Main and State Street areas.
“Imagine you’re shopping downtown and you want to pay to park, says Susan Pollay, DDA Executive Director, “You won’t have to check the cushions for loose change. You’ll be able to pay at any station using a credit card or simply dial a number and pay by phone.”
Ann Arbor is on the vanguard of American cities replacing conventional coin-operated meters with systems featuring new technology. Charleston, South Carolina, New York City and San Francisco have introduced similar systems over the past few years.
“We chose a system that is very user friendly”, adds Pollay. “Simply enter your parking space system, the amount of time you need, and pay for it. It’s that easy.”
The e-park stations – which also take coins – accept debit or credit cards and generate a receipt complete with date, time, and location of parking.
About the Ann Arbor DDA
Since 1982, the Ann Arbor DDA has been a catalyst for the revitalization and renewal of downtown Ann Arbor. Funded by parking revenues and taxes generated by new building construction, the DDA operates all public parking system downtown including on-street meters.
Alternative transportation programs that support the downtown are also funded by the DDA including the go!pass, the Link, bike lockers and the getDowntown program.
While promoting economic revitalization and encouraging historic preservation, the DDA has participated in more than 100 projects, with approximately $60 million reinvested in downtown.
150 South Fifth Avenue, Suite 301 Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Marilyn Monroe Melts Michigan Theater Screen in Summer Classics Series
Wednesday, June 10
Fourteen classic films make up this year’s Summer Classics Series roster at the Michigan Theater. The 1955 summer romance The Seven Year Itch, starring Marilyn Monroe, kicks off the series on June 14 and 16.
Every film in the summer-long series will be shown twice – on Sunday afternoons at 1:30 pm and again the following Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm (with the exception of Psycho, shown on Labor Day only), so there’s no need to fret that you’ll miss one.
Among the highlights is Pandora’s Box, a 1929 silent film, on July 12 and 14. Organist Steven Ball will create the live musical soundtrack on the vintage Barton Theatre Organ.
The complete series follows on a separate page.
The series is presented by Bud Light with support from the Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs and The Ann Arbor News.
Please visit the Michigan Theater web site for more information and a complete schedule with show times: http://michtheater.org/summer_classics.php
Admission is $9.00, $7.00 for students, seniors and US veterans, $6.50 for Michigan Theater members. The Labor Day screening of Psycho only is FREE for students. All shows take place at the historic Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty Street, across from Borders Books and Music in downtown Ann Arbor
About the Michigan Theater
The Michigan Theater is Ann Arbor’s historic center for fine film and performing arts. Winner of the 2006 Outstanding Historic Theatre Award from the League of Historic American Theatres, it is located in downtown Ann Arbor at 603 East Liberty Street, across the street from Borders Books and Music. Please visit the theater’s website or call the 24-hour information line at 734.668.TIME.
Our daily film program is sponsored by Borders. This year’s media sponsors are WEMU 89.1 FM and 107one FM.
2009 Summer Classic Film Series
Tuesday, June 16:The Seven-Year Itch
Sunday, June 21: Breakfast at Tiffany’s 1961 Audrey Hepburn
Tuesday, June 23: Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Sunday, June 28: Mr. Smith Goes To Washington 1939 James Stewart
Tuesday, June 30: Mr. Smith Goes To Washington
Sunday, July 5: Bullitt 1968 Steve McQueen
Tuesday, July 7: Bullitt
Sunay, July 12: Pandora’s Box 1929 Silent with Live
Tuesday, July 14: Pandora’s Box Organ Accompaniment
Sunday, Juy 19: The Cocoanuts 1929 Marx Brothers
Tuesday, July 21: The Cocoanuts
Sunday, July 26: 400 Blows 1959 Truffaut's Classic
Tuesday, July 28: 400 Blows
Sunday, August 2: The Searchers 1956 John Wayne
Tuesday, August 4: The Searchers
Sunday, August 9: The Godfather 1972 The First and Best
Tuesday, August 11: The Godfather
Sunday, August 16: A Hard Day's Night 1964 The Beatles
Tuesday, August 18: A Hard Day's Night
Tuesday, August 23: The Black Stallion 1979 Mickey Rooney
Sunday, August 25: The Black Stallion
Sunday, August 30: Woodstock 1970 40th Anniversary
Tuesday, September 1: Woodstock
Sunday, September 6: Citizen Kane 1941 Joseph Cotten
Monday, September 7: Psycho 1960 Anthony Perkins
Tuesday, September 8: Citizen Kane
DesignHub Creates Ad and Brochure for Survey Sciences Group
Tuesday, June 9
DesignHub, Inc., a Saline-based creative services and marketing firm, has created an ad and a brochure for the SSG i3 survey system from Survey Sciences Group, LLC of Ann Arbor, MI.
SSG i3 is a Web-based platform enabling social scientists to affordably conduct survey research of their own design and implementation. The system includes Web survey hosting on a shared server, dedicated server, or multiple servers. SSG i3 package options include survey set-up, training, consultation, and maintenance. Users may add Survey Sciences Group’s services in research design, study implementation, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
DesignHub’s services to Survey Sciences Group included creative concepts, writing, design, and production of the SSG i3 ad and brochure.
Survey Sciences Group developed customized, evidence-based survey research solutions. Social scientists from educational institutions, government agencies, and research organizations reply on the company’s expertise, tools, and technology to meet wide-ranging survey research needs.
More information is available from Survey Sciences Group, LLC, 220 East Huron Street, Suite 440, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Phone: 734.213.4600. Toll-free: 800.774.0142. Email: info@surveysciences.com.
DesignHub works with clients on Web site design and development, brand development, logo designs, brochures, newsletters, annual reports, advertising, direct mail, public relations, packaging and signage designs, trade show displays and marketing strategies and plans.
Principals of DesignHub include: Karen Ragland, business manager and account executive; Ted Chesky, creative director and graphic designer; and Chris Kochmanski, marketing strategist, copywriter, and account executive. The firm was founded in 1999.
In addition to Survey Sciences Group, DesignHub’s clients include A&H Lawn Service, Advanced Photonix Inc., Aluminum Supply Company, Berry & Associates, Berry Moorman PC, Carr Engineering, Center for Automotive Research (CAR), Center for Information Management (CIM), Chelsea and Bridgewater Lumber, Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea Milling Co., Chizek Custom Builders, Chrysler LLC, Corporate F.A.C.T.S., Crain’s Detroit Business, Daniels and Zermack Associates, Daycroft Montessori School, Dexter Research, Dimensional Engineering, Electrocon International, Evangelical Homes of Michigan, The First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, Hardwood Solutions, Homeowner Services of America (HSA), INSTALL Michigan, JPRA Architects, Lamaze Family Center of Ann Arbor, Marshall Sales Inc., McMullen Company, Metropolitan Building Services, Motawi Tileworks, OptiMetrics Inc., Packaging and Shipping Specialists (P.A.S.S.), Peters Building Co., Phoenix Contractors, Pitney Bowes MapInfo, Pointwise Real Estate Group, Power Wellness, Program for Automotive Labor and Education (PALE), Rand Construction, Saline District Library, Saline Parks and Recreation Department, Samson Senior Properties, The Shipman Company, SignGraphix, Sircon Corporation, Sun Engineering, Tisch Investment Advisory, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and Vinylife Hose Co.
Further information is available from DesignHub, Inc., 600 West Michigan Avenue, Saline, MI 48176. Phone: 734.944.8705. Email: chris@design-hub.com.
Ann Arbor Public Schools FY09/10 Proposed Budget
Tuesday, June 9
The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce has conducted a review of the Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) FY09/10 proposed budget. The Chamber commends the district’s efforts in preparing a budget that enables it to continue to provide quality education that our community expects.
We believe that AAPS is a critical community asset, contributing substantially to the Ann Arbor area’s high quality of life. This, in turn, draws talent to the area, which is of obvious and significant benefit to the business community.
In light of current and foreseeable future financial constraints, we urge the district to continue to focus on its core mission of education, scrutinizing all other activities and functions, particularly those occurring outside of the classroom. We also urge the district to exercise caution with regard to certain budget assumptions. Of particular concern are enrollment projection and union contract negotiation forecasts. In terms of future union contract negotiations, we urge the district to ensure that union health care and retirement benefit costs are consistent with those of the private sector.
Several policy opportunities necessary to continued provision of quality education are as follows:
• We urge AAPS to continue to focus on its core mission of education by further exploring opportunities to outsource non-core functions, such as custodial and transportation, and by continuing to work collaboratively with other area school districts, the Washtenaw Intermediate School District and area colleges and universities. AAPS is to be commended for recent collaborative purchasing within the areas of technology, bus and bus parts.
• In order to reduce transportation costs and potentially increase communitywide levels of service, we urge AAPS to continue to work cooperatively with the Ann Arbor Transit Authority and University of Michigan transportation systems, exploring collaborative opportunities as they pertain to such things as shared maintenance and bussing routes.
• We recognize that many AAPS expenses are mandated or fixed by state law and that AAPS is thus unable to effect certain desired internal reforms absent state-level legislative change. Of particular note in this regard are reforms to and cost improvements on employee/retiree benefits. We continue to urge AAPS to actively engage the Ann Arbor area business community to aid in effecting such change, thus removing statutory impediments to reform and cost reduction.
For additional information, please contact Kyle Mazurek, v.p. of government affairs, at 734.214.0101.
The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce is a 1,400-member community non-profit organization that actively facilitates, educates, and advocates on behalf of its members through our services and programs. Chamber member offerings include numerous networking opportunities and events, educational seminars, leadership development, member-to-member discounts and access to health insurance.
Arbor Hospice Foundation Welcomes Two Ann Arbor residents
Monday, June 1
The Arbor Hospice Foundation Board of Directors recently elected two Ann Arbor residents and one Farmington Hills resident to its Advisory Board.
Randy Harbour, a Farmington Hills attorney, is a longtime supporter of Arbor Hospice and several other charitable organizations. Harbour currently serves on the Board of Directors for the March of Dimes’ Ann Arbor division.
Like Harbour, Howard Cooper of Ann Arbor comes to The Arbor Hospice Foundation with experience in charitable support. He has been an active volunteer with United Way of Washtenaw County and other philanthropic efforts. He also serves as a board member for Ann Arbor State Bank. Cooper owns Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen and Honda dealerships under the umbrella of Howard Cooper Imports.
Charles Borgsdorf, also of Ann Arbor, joins The Arbor Hospice Foundation as an active member of the Ann Arbor community. He was introduced to Arbor Hospice through fellow board members and families of former patients of the agency. Borgsdorf is the former Assistant Dean of the University of Michigan Law School and is on the board of Legal Services of South Central Michigan, the University Musical Society, Dawn Farm, The Kerrytown Concert House and chairs the Advisory Board of the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.
About Arbor Hospice and The Arbor Hospice Foundation
For 25 years Arbor Hospice has been committed to providing quality, compassionate care for those experiencing the end-of-life journey. Arbor Hospice, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, is integrated into the community with the help of its experienced staff and caring volunteers through its certified hospice services, residential hospice facility, grief support services and community education programs. Arbor Hospice serves Ann Arbor and communities in Washtenaw and Western Wayne Counties and Downriver with branches in Ann Arbor, Northville and Trenton. The Arbor Hospice Foundation provides philanthropic support for programs and services provided to more than 7,000 individuals including patients, their families and community members served by Arbor Hospice. For more information, visit www.arborhospice.org or call 1.888.992.2273.
Arbor Hospice Board of Directors Announces New Chair
Monday, June 1
The Arbor Hospice Board of Directors recently elected two board members to leadership positions and welcomed two new members.
Patricia A. Warner, of Ann Arbor, was elected chair of the board of directors. She has served as a board member since 2003.
Warner is currently Associate Hospital Director for the University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers and the Chief Administrative Officer for C.S. Mott Children’s and Women’s Hospital. She is past president of the Society for Ambulatory Care Professionals and served on the board of the Special Wish Foundation. She was also elected to the Board of Governors of the University of Michigan, School of Public Health and to the Health Administration Section Council of the APHA.
Jacqueline Pulte Silhanek, also of Ann Arbor, was elected vice chair of The Arbor Hospice Board of Directors. Prior to her election, Silhanek served as a board member for one year. She is Vice President of North American Sales for Herman Miller Healthcare.
Two new community leaders have also joined the advisory board. Carol Barker, a Canton resident, is a health care consultant specializing in the professionalization of evidence-based clinical practice. Kathrin Kudner, a local attorney and Ann Arbor resident, is formerly a member of The Arbor Hospice Foundation Board of Directors. She has been legal counsel for Arbor Hospice since 1998.
About Arbor Hospice and The Arbor Hospice Foundation
For 25 years Arbor Hospice has been committed to providing quality, compassionate care for those experiencing the end-of-life journey. Arbor Hospice, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, is integrated into the community with the help of its experienced staff and caring volunteers through its certified hospice services, residential hospice facility, grief support services and community education programs. Arbor Hospice serves Ann Arbor and communities in Washtenaw and Western Wayne Counties and Downriver with branches in Ann Arbor, Northville and Trenton. The Arbor Hospice Foundation provides philanthropic support for programs and services provided to more than 7,000 individuals including patients, their families and community members served by Arbor Hospice. For more information, visit www.arborhospice.org or call 1.888.992.2273.
UMMA July 2009: New and Continuing Exhibitions, Art Workshops and Art Fair Music!
Monday, June 1
Exhibitions
UMMA Projects: Lisa Anne Auerbach
July 11 through October 11, 2009
Often combining wry humor with a biting critique of the complacency and routine of modern life, Lisa Anne Auerbach’s subversive brand of post-punk, DIY aesthetics mixes art and politics in a manner both highly personal and thoroughly embedded in contemporary culture. Recent projects have addressed topics ranging from the current Iraq war to the politics of bicycling in a city of freeways. In her slogan-adorned sweater sets, each outfit becomes a wearable canvas, literally weaving together the personal and the political, the aesthetic and the everyday. Auerbach’s installation at UMMA will transform the Museum’s most highly visible space—the Irving Stenn Jr. Family Project Gallery—into a showcase for her politically charged, socially engaged knitwear. Appropriating strategies of presentation and display from the high-end clothing market, this unconventional installation will encourage viewers to ask questions about how we experience different types of cultural spaces, how we perceive the relationship between one type of luxury good (fashion) and another (art), and how both political and aesthetic discourses are framed in contemporary society.
This project is made possible in part by the W. Hawkins Ferry Fund and UMMA’s New Visions Venture Fund.
Francisco Goya: Los Caprichos
June 6 through August 30, 2009
The Museum of Art recently added to its collections a complete first edition (80 etchings) of Francisco Goya y Lucientes’s (1746–1828) famous set of prints Los Caprichos, which offers cutting social commentary on religion, prostitution, and the professional class. Although a number of the nightmarish and idiosyncratic images from the Caprichos may be familiar to visitors, it is rare to experience a complete set and even more exceptional to view a first edition in pristine condition, recently gifted to the Museum by the late Kurt Delbanco in honor of Nicholas Delbanco. This exhibition presents some of Goya’s most iconic—and disturbing—imagery with a delicacy and beauty that is rarely encountered
Untitled (History Painting): Painting and Public Life in the 21st Century
May 23 through September 20, 2009
The use and translation of photographic imagery is perhaps the most significant development in painting of the past half century. At the same time, photographic media have long since taken over the representation of real-world events, both contemporary and historical. Untitled (History Painting): Painting and Public Life in the 21st Century investigates painting’s continuing viability as a means of addressing historical events and how they are represented in a culture dominated by photographic and digital media. The artists in the exhibition are united both by their use of photographic (or cinematic) source material drawn from the public sphere and by their engagement with questions of historical representation and collective memory. Devoted exclusively to work produced since the year 2000, the exhibition makes no attempt to be comprehensive. Instead, the exhibition charts one constellation of positions at the intersection of painting, photography, and the public imagination. Rather than simply illustrating the impact of photography or current events on contemporary painting, these positions represent an active, critical engagement with some of the most pressing issues facing artists and viewers today.
This exhibition is made possible in part by the University of Michigan Office of the Provost.
Treasures Rediscovered: Chinese Stone Sculptures from the Sackler Collections at Columbia University
May 23 through August 16, 2009
This exhibition features 22 important sculptures that now for the first time can be ascribed to specific Buddhist sites such as Xiangtanshan, Longmen, and Tianlonghshan. The sculptures—steles, full figures, and heads of divinities, as well as funerary objects—provide a comprehensive view of how art manifests ritual practice and reveals, through iconography, the transmission and transformation of cultures from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) through the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). The exhibition will explore both indigenous and imported trends during the period. Emphasis will be placed on works from the sixth century CE, a time of great intellectual ferment and artistic creation, when change and innovation occurred in political and Buddhist centers in China.
This exhibition and tour are organized by the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Art Gallery, Columbia University.
Major support for the exhibition and the accompanying catalogue came from the AMS Foundation for the Arts, Sciences, and Humanities, the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Foundation, and an anonymous donor. Contributions were also received from Giuseppe Eskenazi, London; Dorothy Tapper Goldman; James J. Lally; Dr. David and Mrs. Elvi Menke; and Howard and Mary Ann Rogers. The Ann Arbor presentation is made possible in part by the University of Michigan Office of the Provost and Center for Chinese Studies.
Events
Hands-on art making
UMMA will be a site for regular opportunities to make art! On Thursday evenings this summer from 6:30 to 9 pm take a workshop with the Ann Arbor Art Center at the new UMMA. Courses are one or two sessions long and designed for anyone over the age of 16 who would like to create. Register on line at www.annarborartcenter.org.
Art Workshop: Batik Fantastic
Thursday, July 2, 6:30 pm, Multipurpose Room
Explore the Museum’s Asian collections for ideas and patterns and then create a beautiful silk scarf or fabric square using the Southeast Asian technique of batik.
$25/$23 for UMMA and AAAC members; materials fee $8
Art Workshop: Seeing Beyond the Snapshot
Thursday, July 9, 6:30 pm, Multipurpose Room
The instructor will lead a gallery discussion of photographic and other two- dimensional images in the UMMA collection as participants learn the secrets to successful composition and other formal elements of photography. In the second part of the class, participants return to the classroom and share their own prints or digital images for critique and discussion.
$25/$23 for UMMA and AAAC members
Art Workshop: Al Fresco
Thursday, July 16, 6:30 pm
Thursday, July 23, 6:30 pm
UMMA Galleries and the Law Quad
Visit the galleries and see some inspirational works painted en plein air (outdoors). Then, head across the street to the idyllic Law Quad to capture the dappled twilight on the beautiful greenery of ivy, trees, and the carved stone architecture. Please bring watercolors, pastels or colored pencils, and a pad of paper.
$25/$23 for UMMA and AAAC members
Art Workshop: Flower Drum Song—Chinese-inspired rice paper shades
Thursday, July 30, 6:30 pm, Multipurpose Room
Images of peonies, lotuses, birds, and cherry blossoms can be found throughout the Asian galleries. Students will sketch their inspirations before returning to the classroom to paint them in watercolor on a large paper lantern. All materials included.
$25/$23 for UMMA and AAAC members
Dean & Britta: 13 Most Beautiful...Songs from Andy Warhol’s “Screen Tests”
Thursday, July 2, 8 pm
Power Center for the Performing Arts
Ann Arbor Summer Festival, in partnership with UMMA, presents indie-pop darlings Dean Wareham and Britta Phillips, former members of Luna, who bring their dream pop sensibility to Andy Warhol’s Screen Tests, rarely seen silent film portraits of fixtures of the 1960s New York art scene, including many celebrities such as Lou Reed, Nico, Edie Sedgwick, Dennis Hopper, and more. Step back and forward in time and rediscover Warhol’s masterworks in this multimedia performance featuring large-scale video projections and live music by Dean & Britta and their band. Tickets: $30, $25, $20, available by calling 734.764.2538 or online at www.annarborsummerfestival.org
Francisco Goya: Los Caprichos
Sunday, July 12, 3 pm
Works on Paper Gallery
Senior Curator of Western Art Carole McNamara will explore some of the themes presented in UMMA’s pristine set of etchings by Francisco Goya, Los Caprichos, including scathing critiques of contemporary Spanish mores, the aristocracy, and the Catholic church, as well as the visual approaches that Goya employed to communicate those criticisms.
Art Fair Afternoons
July 15–18, 1–3 pm
Museum Porch
Art Fair visitors will once again be able to cool off in the galleries and Museum Store at UMMA and enjoy a variety of musical interludes every afternoon. Plan your day to take a break in the shade of the Museum lawn and enjoy Ann Arbor’s talented musicians until you are ready to hit the streets again. Daily performances on the porch each day from 1 to 3 pm, featuring the Raisin Pickers on Wednesday, 7/15, the Royal Garden Trio on Thursday, 7/16, Annie and Rod Capps with Jason Dennie on Friday, 7/17, and Christine and Jon on Saturday, 7/18.
Treasures Rediscovered: Chinese Stone Sculpture
Thursday, July 23, 5 pm
Alfred Taubman Gallery II
UMMA's Research Curator of Asian Art Natsu Oyobe will introduce this exhibition, which presents 22 Chinese stone sculptures from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) through the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). The group of steles, full figures and heads of Buddhist icons, and funerary objects, provides a comprehensive and insightful view of how art manifests ritual practice and how iconography reflects cultural transmission and transformation in China.
Guided Tours
The New UMMA
Sunday, July 5, 2 pm
Saturday, July 11, 2 pm
Sunday, July 12, 2 pm
Saturday, July 18, 2 pm
Sunday, July 19, 2 pm
Saturday, July 25, 2 pm
Sunday, July 26, 2 pm
525 South State Street, Ann Arbor, 48109-1354
Galleries open Tue, Wed, Sat, 10 am to 5 pm; Thu, Fri, 10 am to 10 pm; Sun, noon to 5 pm; Building open seven days a week, 8 am to midnight.
* Special Art Fair Hours July 15-18: Wed 10 am to 9 pm; Thu, Fri 10 am to 10 pm; Sat 10 am to 6 pm.
Closed July 4, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Admission is free.
Information: 734.763.UMMA; www.umma.umich.edu
