http://events.grnow.com/events/ en-us Copyright 2004-2012 Refresh Web Development LLC http://www.HeliosCalendar.com http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=rss Upcoming Event Information From The GRNow Event Calendar http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=161970 John Ball Zoo Society Announces Largest Contribution in Zoo's History Today the John Ball Zoological Society, the non-profit fundraising partner of the Zoo, announced that Bea Idema and the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation are donating a $5,000,000 capital gift for the expansion of John Ball Zoo.  The Idema gift is the largest single donation in the Zoo's history.  Mrs. Idema's vision and generosity will make it possible for the Zoo to expand and develop the summit of the hill on which the Zoo is located.  The funding will provide for a funicular and all the required facilities and infrastructure needed for opening up the hill top area for visitors.  Construction is expected to start late summer 2011 with the funicular opening early summer 2012. The Project-THE IDEMA FOREST REALM The project begins to the right of the Zoo entrance with the FUNICULAR. What is a funicular?  A funicular is essentially a tram on a track designed to take steep inclines.  Traditionally funiculars or inclines have been driven by cables; the Zoo's funicular will be powered with motors on the tram cars. This system is more environmentally friendly and requires a much narrower pathway. Visitors will gather at the funicular platform and enter the tram to begin their journey on a long curved railway that winds towards Fulton Street then curves up and behind the children's zoo area to one of the highest points in Grand Rapids. There are three cars planned for the funicular.  The 900' long ride up the hill is expected to take approximately 4 minutes. The cars are designed with one bench seat at the rear. In order to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs the rest of the car will be open and passengers will stand during the ride.  The car's wrap around windows provide riders a stunning view of downtown as they make their way into the IDEMA FOREST REALM. As the ride begins, passengers are at ground level; however, as they curve up the hill the track will rise to 15' off the ground. What a delight for children and adults alike to experience this sure-to-be icon for our city. Only a handful of funicular systems exist in the United States and the IDEMA FUNICULAR will be the first of its kind in Michigan. Once at the top, riders debark at a second platform station and proceed to the public scenic overlook. An expansive deck will be constructed to give visitors great views of the Grand Rapids skyline and the Zoo. A "tree house" for special zoo events and rentals at the hilltop will also be constructed. BISSELL, Inc. has pledged the lead gift to make the tree house possible.   Long time supporters of the Zoo, BISSELL, Inc. most recently contributed the lead gift for the Lions of Lake Manyara project which opened in 2008. Inside the tree house, zoo visitors might take part in a special event, participate in an educational program, or even rent the facility to celebrate a family or corporate event. This multi-use space will be unique in its hilltop location. The tree house and funicular stations are being designed by Progressive AE and Outdoor Inclined Elevators, Inc. will provide design  of the funicular system. Leaving the public overlook, visitors will walk through the forest along a natural trail. In the future, the entire hilltop will hold permanent animal exhibits. In the early stages of the expansion, the trail will allow the visitor to explore a part of the Zoo never before opened to the public. Not only do these projects assist the Zoo in growing as an education, conservation, and recreation facility  but they are important to the local economy. The projects will provide work for approximately 20 trade contractors and 30 material suppliers.  In addition, multiple people at each of these organizations will provide labor throughout the duration of these projects. The Zoo currently provides approximately $28 million in economic impact to the community annually.  With the addition of new attractions, that number will increase along with the onetime economic impact of the construction. The John Ball Zoo has enjoyed great attendance averaging 420,000 visitors annually over the last few years. It was recently named the 4th most attended cultural facility in Michigan by Crain's Detroit Business. The County of Kent and their non-profit partner, the John Ball Zoological Society, are  working together to provide future funding and governance options to allow the Zoo to continue to grow and thrive.  The Zoological Society is currently raising funds for additional new exhibits and renovations. With Mrs. Idema and the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation leading the way, the Zoo will be able to take one of the most significant steps forward in its history.  These projects will open up a whole new area for future development and nearly double the size of the current Zoo. Mrs. Idema and the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation have long been generous donors to the community. Their quiet generosity has helped many organizations for many years.  The Zoo Society Board is thrilled to have received such a tremendous gift that creates such wonderful possibilities for the future. #  #  #(June 1, 2012 is an estimated date) Funicular/tram station: Tree House: Map of Funicular: http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=161970 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195736 Please join the graduating Calvin students on Friday May 18, 5-9pm for a closing reception of the BA exhibition and BFA exhibition: Ground-Up. (Refreshments will be served).Center Art Gallery (3201 Burton Street, Calvin College Covenant Fine Arts Center) BA Students:Kerry Aarnoutse, Elizabeth Arnoult, Josh Breden, Erika Faasen, Matt Faber, Kathy Feasel, Mark Heidmann, Patrick Hekman, Daniel Kang, Libby Mantel, Lisa Minnesma, Yohan Na, Jiyea Oh, Jack Organ, Elizabeth Steiner and  Samantha Wade. BFA Students:Jenny Swim and Andrew Szobody (106) Gallery (106 Division Avenue) BFA Students:Sheila Morken and Bjorn Sparrman Pictured above are the Senior BFA Students: Sheila Morken, Jennifer Swim, Andrew Szobody + Bjorn Sparrman. Facebook: Bachelor of Arts Exhibition // Ground-Up Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195736 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=185891 Multi-platinum rock band RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS arrive back in Grand Rapids with their I'M WITH YOU WORLD TOUR.The band - Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Chad Smith and new guitarist Josh Klinghoffer -  are touring in support of their current album "Im With You," whch has received a GRAMMY nomination for "Rock Album of the Year." In addition, the band will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in April.Tickets: $38 & $58 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=185891 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=191047 We all remember or know that one person that proclaimed "I am the beer pong, flip cup, quarters...ever!" Well here is your chance to put your money where your mouth is.  Grand Rapids Sport and Social Club is proud to present the first ever Bar Olympics. Bar Olympics will challenge participants in three separate events: Flip Cup, Water Pong, and Quarters.Teams of four will face off against each other to determine the top eight teams. Once the top eight are determined, they will compete in bracket-style, single elimination tournament until one winner is determined. Cash prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third.Participants and Spectators will receive drink and food specials from Crush, including: $4.75 Miller Lite Pitchers, $3 well drinks, and $5 BOB Burger and chips. Participants will also receive a complementary GRSSC Official "Water" Cup. Door prizes will also be up for grabs.Space is limited to 40 teams so sign up fast! http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=191047 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192699 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park announces its 10th Outdoor Summer Concert Series with an eclectic 25-show lineup, the largest to date. The 1,900-seat amphitheater is one of the most unique and intimate venues in Michigan. 2012 Outdoor Summer Concert Series LineupThe B-52s, June 1 at 7 p.m., $43 presale  |  $ 46 member  |  $48 publicMelissa Etheridge, June 8 at 7 p.m., $75 presale | $78 member | $80 publicJimmy Cliff, June 13 at 7 p.m., $40 presale  |  $43 member  |  $45 publicForeigner, June 14 at 7 p.m., $62 presale | $65 member | $67 publicSteve Miller Band, June 17 at 7 p.m., $77 presale | $80 member | $82 publicAl Green, June 18 at 7 p.m., $68 presale | $71 member | $73 publicGov't Mule, June 28 at 7 p.m., $32 presale  |  $35 member  |  $37 publicEmmylou Harris, June 29 at 7 p.m., $48 presale  |  $51 member  |  $53 publicRufus Wainwright, July 1 at 7 p.m., $40 presale  |  $43 member  |  $45 publicHuey Lewis & The News, July 2 at 7 p.m., $70 presale  |  $73 member  |  $75 publicBrandi Carlile, July 8 at 7 p.m., $40 presale  |  $43 member  |  $45 publicFiona Apple, July 9 at 7 p.m., $54 presale  |  $57 member  |  $59 publicCreedence Clearwater Revisited, July 11 at 7 p.m., $46 presale  |  $49 member  |  $51 publicAmerican Legacies: Preservation Hall Jazz Band & Del McCoury Band, July 12 at 7 p.m., $37 presale  |  $40 member  |  $42 publicAndrew Bird, July 15 at 7 p.m., $35 presale  |  $38 member  |  $40 publicO.A.R., July 22 at 6:30 p.m., $40 presale  |  $43 member  |  $45 publicLyle Lovett & His Large Band, July 25 at 7 p.m., $61 presale  |  $64 member  |  $66 publicThe Head and The Heart, August 2 at 7 p.m., $29 presale  |  $32 member  |  $34 publicGavin DeGraw & Colbie Caillat, August 3 at 6:30 p.m., $52 presale  |  $55 member  |  $57 publick.d. lang and The Siss Boom Bang, August 8 at 7 p.m., $55 presale  |  $58 member  |  $60 publicGrace Potter & The Nocturnals, August 16 at 7 p.m., $35 presale  |  $38 member  |  $40 publicBonnie Raitt wsg Mavis Staples, August 17 at 6:30 p.m., $71 presale | $74 member | $76 publicDarius Rucker, August 22 at 7 p.m., $60 presale | $63 member | $65 publicFive For Fighting with the Twilight Symphony Orchestra, August 23 at 7 p.m. , $43 presale  |  $46 member  |  $48 publicWynton Marsalis, August 29 at 7 p.m., $48 presale  |  $51 member  |  $53 public Tickets go on sale to the public May 12. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192699 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190418 Who: The Pyramid Scheme + You!What: T-Rex Fest. The Pyramid Scheme's first annual outdoor summer music and beer festival.When: Saturday, June 16th, 3-10pm. 21+Where: 68 Commerce SW. Downtown Grand Rapids. We shutting the bar and moving the party outside, closing off the streets surrounding The Pyramid Scheme. Capacity is 3k+T-Rex Fest will be The Pyramid Scheme's first outdoor summer festival! Dominating downtown Grand Rapids this event promises to be a party of T-Rex sized proportions. In addition to an incredible lineup of musical acts there will be local food and art vendors and of course, plenty to drink. So if your 21+, come join us as we celebrate mind-blowing music, awesome art, feast-worthy food, and summer in Grand Rapids! http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190418 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=191096 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park proudly announces four acts of the 2012 Outdoor Summer Concert Series. The full lineup will be announced in mid-April.Members of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will be able to purchase tickets during an exclusive members-only presale, April 28 through May 11. During the pre-sale, members also receive a $5 discount per ticket. To join or renew before April 28, visit MeijerGardens.org/Membership.Tickets will go on sale to the general public on May 12. More information on prices and purchasing locations will be available following the release of the full lineup in mid-April.The 2012 Outdoor Summer Concert Series is sponsored by Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids and Meijer. Media sponsors are MLive Media Group and Classic Rock 97 LAV.The B-52sJune 1, 2012Rooted in New Wave and 1960's Rock & Roll, The B-52s have created their own "guys vs. gals" vocal trademark style, highlighted in their hit, "Love Shack." Formed in 1976, The B-52s continue to present themselves as a positive, enthusiastic, slightly oddball party band, who tell tales that glorify wild youth and celebrate romance.Steve Miller BandJune 17, 2012Producing number one hits like "The Joker," "Fly Like an Eagle" and "Rock'n Me," the Steve Miller Band is considered a classic rock legend. Since forming in California in 1968, the band has released more than 18 studio albums, three live albums, seven compilation albums and numerous singles.Grace Potter and the NocturnalsAugust 16, 2012A rock band with six albums under its belt, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals are like a modern-day version of Tina Turner fronting the Rolling Stones. Their latest album "The Lion, The Beast, The Beat" is scheduled to be released this spring. The Vermont-based band has a new five-piece configuration of keyboardist Grace Potter, lead guitarist Scott Tournet and drummer Matt Bur, joined by bassist Catherine Popper and rhythm guitarist Benny Yurco.Wynton MarsalisAugust 29, 2012Wynton Marsalis is an internationally acclaimed musician, composer and educator. He is the world's first jazz artist to perform and compose across the full jazz spectrum. In 1983, Marsalis became the first artist ever to win Grammy Awards for both jazz and classical records and repeated the distinction again the following year. Today he is the only artist ever to win Grammy Awards over five consecutive years (1983-87); nine in total. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=191096 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131563 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131563 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=181763 5K & 10K Reeds Lake Run. Call for more information. 616.949.1750 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=181763 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131518 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131518 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190843 A storied name in the city's brewing history will return to downtown by late summer when Grand Rapids Brewing Company (GRBC) opens next door to the Van Andel Arena.BarFly Ventures, owned by Mark and Michele Sellers, today announced the brewpub will be the ground floor anchor tenant inside the historic Hawkins and Gunn Company buildings, 1 and 7 Ionia Ave. SW.BarFly owns some of downtown's best-known bars, including HopCat, Stella's Lounge, The Viceroy and McFadden's. "Grand Rapids Brewing Co. will be a casual, family gathering place creating approximately 60 new jobs in the heart of our city," Mark Sellers said. "This will be a great spot to grab dinner and some homemade beer before and after events at the arena. We envision it becoming a popular spot for watching a game with friends and family members."The brewpub will be open seven days for lunch and dinner, employing 60 people in a variety of jobs ranging from managers and brewmasters to servers and bartenders.The new GRBC will offer a unique food menu, 8-10 of its own house-made beers, and soft drinks. A selection of liquor, wine, and hard cider will also be available.The original GRBC, once located at the corner of Michigan Street and Ottawa Avenue, closed on April 26, 1918 due to the Prohibition Act. It was once a dominant player in the regional beer market thanks to the popularity of its famous Silver Foam beer. BarFly plans to pay homage to the original Grand Rapids Brewing Co. with a new formulation of Silver Foam.BarFly purchased the assets of a second incarnation of GRBC after it closed last year on 28th Street. Much of the new GRBC's brewing equipment will come from that location. Members of the 28th Street GRBC Mug Club at the time it closed also will be given a free year's membership in the new GRBC Mug Club.BarFly plans to invest more than $1.5 million to renovate and combine what are currently separate store fronts in the Hawkins and Gunn buildings into a 10,000-square-foot space capable of seating up to 450 customers. An event space in the lower level will be able to accommodate parties of up to 100 people.The western side of the building facing Van Andel Arena and a historic brick-paved alley will bring excitement and visual appeal by opening up what had been loading dock doors. BarFly plans to install a deck for open-air seating and, during summer months, will open the three large garage doors facing VanAndel Arena."This location is the corner of 'Main and Main' of the city's entertainment district, and I couldn't be more excited about locating GRBC here" Mark Sellers said. "We are excited to create another unique, locally owned anchor to what we think is becoming one of the most interesting entertainment districts in the Midwest."GRBC will occupy most of the ground floors of both buildings. It will be an integral part of the $7.5 million 616 Lofts on Ionia mixed-use project announced last week. That project will put 26 market-rate apartments on the upper three floors of the buildings and offices on the second floor. *Sep 15, 2012 is an estimated date* http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190843 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131515 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131515 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131561 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131561 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131581 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131581 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131536 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131536 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131583 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131583 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131537 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131537 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131584 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131584 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131519 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131519 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=184486 The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has awarded the City of Grand Rapids a $1 million grant to support the redevelopment of an underutilized downtown property into a year-round, indoor-outdoor public market. The grant, funded by the voter-approved Clean Michigan Initiative Brownfield program, will pay to clean up contaminated soils and remove existing dilapidated buildings on the site in the city's Heartside neighborhood. "We deeply appreciate the state's investment in the project and our community," saidCity of Grand Rapids Economic Development Director Kara Wood. "The urban market project will support West Michigan's growing local food movement, create opportunities for entrepreneurship, help stimulate hundreds of new jobs for area residents and serve as a catalyst for additional downtown redevelopment." "This funding is a significant boost to the project and will allow our private fundraising effort to focus exclusively on building the market rather than cleaning up the site," said Jon Nunn, executive director of Grand Action, a not-for-profit organization of civic leaders focused on advancing urban revitalization projects in Grand Rapids. "We are extremely grateful for this contribution." Grand Action in March 2010 announced the findings and recommendations of a feasibility study which determined a permanent public market could help catalyze urban revitalization, generate jobs and new economic activity and expand access to fresh foods in downtown Grand Rapids. The study recommended a mixed-use development concept combining facilities for food production and retailing, farmer produce distribution, tastings, a seasonal outdoor farmers' market, as well as food and health education. The former Sonneveldt site at the intersection of Ionia Avenue and Wealthy Street, which is owned by the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority, was identified as the preferred site based on, among other factors, its high visibility, potential to stimulate new investment and convenient accessibility by car, foot and transit.The total estimated project development cost is $28 million. The MDEQ grant of $1 million, the maximum amount available to a single project, is based on the proposed project's ability to achieve such agency goals as the remediation of environmental contamination, leveraging of private investment and promotion of urban redevelopment. The funds enable the clean-up and building removal work to begin this winter on the proposed urban market site.The MDEQ grant comes in addition to approximately $4.7 million in support committed by the Michigan Economic Growth Authority in November 2011. Grand Action continues to work closely with community partners to identify and pursue additional financing opportunities and develop a proposed construction timeline. If the project raises the necessary funding on a timely basis, the project partners anticipate opening the market for the 2013 season.*July 1, 2013 is an estimated date* http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=184486 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193489 (June 21th - Oct. 11th. Every Thursday) Rosa Parks CircleFree outdoor dancing. 6:00pm-8:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193489 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190416 Grand Rapids, Michigan. C. D. Barnes Associates, Inc. announces we have been awarded the construction of the Houlihan's Restaurant at Breton Village Mall. This single-story, slab-on-grade, 5,335 SF restaurant will feature indoor and outdoor eating areas. C.D. Barnes Associates is thrilled to bring this Kansas-based restaurant to West Michigan. Though the shell for the building already exists, C.D. Barnes Associates will complete the build-out of the restaurant's interior. Houlihan's is a modern restaurant with an open kitchen design and prominent bar. Houlihan's is scheduled for completion in early June of this year. *June 1, 2012 is an estimated date* http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190416 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=181276 Exhibition features 'Detroit Disassembled: Photographs by Andrew Moore'June 1-August 26, 2012 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=181276 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=169955 Press release:Zoo Society Announces Campaign for Tigers, Bears, and MoreThe John Ball Zoological Society announced today they will be bringing Tigers back to Grand Rapids with the help of a generous community. The fund drive is Phase II of the Zoo Society's Restore the Roar Capital Campaign. The projects include the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation Funicular and Forest Realm, the Bissell Tree House (announced earlier this year), new Amur Tiger Exhibit, new Grizzly Bear Exhibit, Visitor Welcome Center, and a Central Services/Commissary facility.This major zoo expansion and renovation breaks ground this summer with expected completion of the funicular, tree house ,welcome center, and central services facility in 2012, completion of Grizzly Exhibit in 2013, and completion of Tiger Exhibit in 2014.The campaign began in 2010 with the largest contribution in the history of the Zoo of $5 million from Bea Idema and the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation. The Zoo Society is pleased to announce as of today the campaign has received $10,250,000 in pledges and contributions. Other generous donors who have provided lead gifts include:Bill and Marilyn CrawfordWege FoundationMeijer FoundationFrey FoundationBISSELL Inc. in honor of their employeesAllen and Helen HuntingLouis and Helen Padnos Foundation in honor of their employeesAnd others A spokesperson for the Wege Foundation said of the expansion, "Peter M. Wege and The Wege Foundation Trustees support this expansion because they know introducing children to wildlife teaches future generations to be good stewards of the planet." Today's announcement kicks off a community-wide effort to raise $1,750,000 to complete the expansion/renovation projects. The Zoo's last tiger was moved to another zoo in 2009. The decision was made not to bring tigers back to the Zoo until a larger more natural exhibit could be built for them. The new AMUR TIGER EXHIBIT will anchor the west end of the hilltop expansion with the Idema Funicular and Bissell Tree House anchoring the east end. The tigers will have a green habitat nestled into a natural bowl in the hillside. The GRIZZLY BEAR EXHIBIT will be a total renovation of the grizzly bear/dall sheep exhibits.Those exhibits were built in the 1960's and remain in the heart of the Zoo. Now, however, the two older exhibits will be totally demolished and one bold and beautiful grizzly exhibit constructed. The GRIZZLY EXHIBIT will double the space for the Zoo's two rescued grizzlies and give visitors a feeling for the grizzlies' lair.The Welcome Center will add restrooms and other amenities for the Zoo's guests. A new gift shop at the entry will help create additional earned revenue to support Zoo programs and services. The entire front plaza will be expanded.If you would like to contribute please visit the Zoo Society's website at www.johnballzoosociety.org and click DONATE or contact the Zoo Society Development Dept. at 616-336-3036. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=169955 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131564 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131564 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131538 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131538 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131562 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131562 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=178090 ROGER WATERS MAKES HIS TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO NORTH AMERICA IN 2012 WITH HIS EXTRAORDINARY AURAL AND VISUAL MASTERPIECE:  "THE WALL"Grand Rapids, MI. – Roger Waters, the co-founder and principal songwriter of the archetypal progressive band Pink Floyd, has announced the return of the historic production of "The Wall" to North America in 2012. His aural and visual masterpiece of alienation and transformation will be performed in-its-entirety featuring a full band and state-of-the-art production. "The Wall" live has played more than 120 shows around the world for more than 1.6 million fans making it one of the most successful tours of 2010 and 2011.Making a 36 show trek throughout North America, "The Wall" will be playing Van Andel Arena on June 6, 2012. Prices are $57.50, $77.50, $101.50 and $201.50 and tickets will go on sale November 14 at 10am. The tour also includes stadium stops in San Francisco at AT&T Park on May 11th, Chicago's Wrigley Field on June 8th and 23rd and Philadelphia at the Citizens Bank Park on July 14th.Waters' first reinvented his iconic stage production of "The Wall" in 2010 utilizing modern day technological advances and special effects which have been embraced by audiences around the globe with countless sold out performances and multiple-night stands including a record-breaking 9 sold out shows at the River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina. "The Wall" remains one of the most influential albums in the history of recorded music with a profound effect on pop culture, resonating with multiple generations of music fans.Prior to 2010, "The Wall" show was simply too large to contemplate a tour, but new arenas and advances in touring technology have solved that dilemma. Waters has updated the look and feel of the show to ensure it matches the astonishing theatrical extravaganza that The Wall's live incarnation became so legendary for - thus allowing yet another generation to be inspired by the grandeur of the breathtaking visual and aural spectacle.  The 1980 original production of the "The Wall" had been performed live-in-its-entirety just 29 times during Pink Floyd's 1980 tour in support of the album and once in Berlin in celebration of the fall of the Berlin wall.The Associated Press described opening night in 2010 with, "Roger Waters tore down the house Wednesday night in Toronto…He walked out to thunderous applause beginning with the first track of the seminal concept album, 'In the Flesh', and the adulation never stopped." While during the New York stop, the New York Post declared, "When Roger Waters finished building "The Wall" in its entirety, at Madison Square Garden, it was just another brick on what was the best arena concert I've ever been to. Period."In addition to Roger Waters (lead vocals, bass), "The Wall" live touring ensemble includes: Snowy White (Guitar), Dave Kilminster (Guitar), GE Smith (Guitar & Bass), Jon Carin (Keyboards), Harry Waters (Hammond Organ), Graham Broad (Drums), Robbie Wyckoff (Vocals), Jon Joyce, Pat Lennon, Mark Lennon and Kipp Lennon (Backing Vocals).For complete ticket and tour information, please visit RogerWaters.com, Ticketmaster.com and LiveNation.com. Video news release, live press shots, EPK and interview material available to download at:  Rogerwatersmedia.comUsername: TheWallLivePassword: AnotherBrick2010  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=178090 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136721 Doors open at 9:00pmEntertainment start at 9:00pm$2 Cover  -  21+ http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136721 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131580 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131580 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131516 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131516 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131539 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131539 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190223 Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) announced today a partnership agreement with the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York that extends through 2014, strengthening the relationship between the two organizations and offering the community of West Michigan access to one of the world's great collections of contemporary American art.  The three-year exhibition schedule includes: Robert Rauschenberg: Synapsis ShuffleCurrently on loan from the Whitney to complement the current Robert Rauschenberg exhibition, officially opens March 3 and remains on view through May 20, 2012. Real/SurrealOctober 19, 2012 – January 13, 2013This exhibition is a close look at the interconnection between two of the strongest currents in twentieth-century American art. The exhibition includes eighty paintings, drawings, photographs, and prints made in the years before, during, and immediately after the Second World War by such artists as Paul Cadmus, Federico Castellón, Ralston Crawford, Mabel Dwight,Jared French, Louis Guglielmi, Edward Hopper, Man Ray, Kay Sage, George Tooker, Grant Wood, and Andrew Wyeth. Organized by Whitney curator Carter Foster. Legacy: The Emily Fisher Landau CollectionJanuary 31 – April 27, 2014The world-class Landau Collection, one of the most important gifts of contemporary art to the Whitney, traces many of the ideas that artists have explored since the late 1960s, with depth in Pop Art, Minimalism, conceptualism, and political and social dialogue.  A wide range of media is represented, including painting, sculpture, photography, drawing, and mixed media. Featured artists include: Richard Artschwager, John Baldessari, Nan Goldin, Felix Gonzales-Torres, Jenny Holzer, Jasper Johns, Glenn Ligon, Agnes Martin, Ed Ruscha, Cy Twombly, Andy Warhol and David Wojnarowicz. For more information on each exhibition, see below. GRAM Honorary Life Trustee, Pamella DeVos, who also serves as a Trustee on the board of the Whitney Museum of American Art, together with GRAM Director and CEO Dana Friis-Hansen and Whitney's Alice Pratt Brown Director Adam D. Weinberg met several months ago and began a discussion that started with the Robert Rauschenberg loan and quickly developed into a longer term arrangement. "It is an honor to collaborate with the Whitney Museum of American Art, and bring to West Michigan an array of masterpieces of American art from the early twentieth century through the beginning of the twenty-first," said Friis-Hansen. "The exhibitions will inspire discovery, enjoyment, and learning about art, creative thinking, and culture." Adam D. Weinberg, the Alice Pratt Brown Director of the Whitney Museum of American Art, stated: "We are delighted to be collaborating with the Grand Rapids Art Museum, a truly vibrant cultural center in West Michigan, on the presentation of three exhibitions which debuted at the Whitney:Synapsis Shuffle, Real/Surreal, and Legacy: The Emily Fisher Landau Collection. It's a great pleasure to share these shows with audiences of art lovers outside of New York. We are immensely grateful to Pamella DeVos and the Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation for their extraordinary generosity…and for their enduring support of the Whitney." Information about Robert Rauschenberg: Synapsis ShuffleMarch 3 – May 20, 2012Robert Rauschenberg: Synapsis Shuffle has been exhibited in only two other cities in the world-New York and Paris-before arriving in Grand Rapids. This exhibition consists of 52 large-scale panels, and is a monumental participatory work that incorporates chance and performance, hallmarks of Rauschenberg's art. Each of the 52 panels is a collage of images taken from photographs the artist took during his global travels. The title of the work and the number of paintings refer to a deck of cards, a clever signal of the work's installation method: each time the panels of Synapsis Shuffle are presented, they are meant to be "shuffled" by event participants, in displays of no more than seven and no fewer than three. GRAM will organize a Grand Rapids event and "deal out a hand" to the event participants, where the panels will be shuffled into a unique exhibition. The event will be filmed and available for viewing after the event. The Synapsis Shuffle exhibition will continue through May 20, 2012. Throughout the course of the exhibitions, guests can enhance their experience by attending diverse weekly programming focusing on Rauschenberg. From lectures, films, drop-in Docent-led tours, gallery talks, and a special Merce Cunningham-inspired dance performance, there are a variety of ways to engage with Rauschenberg's works and learn more about this innovative American artist. Robert Rauschenberg: Synpasis Shuffle. This exhibition was organized by the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York. The Grand Rapids presentation has been made possible by Presenting Sponsor Daniel & Pamella DeVos Foundation. Information about future exhibitions (excerpts from Whitney press releases) Real/SurrealThe permeable boundary between the real and the imagined is the subject of Real/Surreal. A close look at the interconnection between two of the strongest currents in twentieth-century American art, the exhibition includes eighty paintings, drawings, photographs, and prints made in the years before, during, and immediately after the Second World War by such artists as Paul Cadmus, Federico Castellón, Ralston Crawford, Mabel Dwight, Jared French, Louis Guglielmi, Edward Hopper, Man Ray, Kay Sage, George Tooker, Grant Wood, andAndrew Wyeth. Whitney curator Carter Foster organized the exhibition. An international movement in art and literature, Surrealism originated in Europe in the 1920s. Its practitioners tapped the subconscious mind to create fantastic, non-rational worlds. While some explored abstraction and used the subconscious to directly influence the formal structure of their work, others developed imagery with strong roots in traditional painting. This vein of Surrealism flourished most famously in the work of Salvador Dalí and René Magritte, and influenced a host of artists in the United States. As the movement spread internationally and some of the major figures moved to thiscountry in the upheavals of the War, its ideas became more diffuse and permeated both art and popular culture. This exhibition, the second in a series of shows reexamining the Museum's collection chronologically from its earliest days to the present, focuses on the tension and overlap between realism and Surrealism. Although the term "realism" has many facets, a basic connection to the observable world underlies all of them; the subversion of reality through the imagination and the subconscious lies at the heart of Surrealism. Surrealism was a liberating force which allowed for all manner of fantastic, unreal imagery, but it also greatly influenced how artists perceived and represented reality. Those who absorbed its ideas learned to invest objects and spaces with symbolic power, making them representative of psychic states, moods, and subconscious impulses. They favored narrative ambiguity over explicitness, intentionally allowing viewers to project their own subjectivity onto the work, so that the viewer'simagination, and the artist's, could intertwine. Yet there are convergences in these different and even oppositional approaches to experience, and they encourage new ways of looking at the art of the twenties, thirties, and forties in America. For example, Edward Hopper, the artist most closely identified with the Whitney, is a painter whose own subjectivity and imagination are integral to his work. Many artists who developed imagery based on new and very specific, concrete conditions of industrial America were essentially interested in artificial worlds and presented these as distillations of reality. Eventotally abstract painters such as Yves Tanguy depended on techniquesdeveloped from traditional realist art to render other worlds. By willfully distorting such techniques, Helen Lundeberg and Mabel Dwight could quietly undercut our sense of stability, while showing us recognizable and even mundane objects and settings. Most of the artists on view were academically trained and had a fullcommand of traditional painting and drawing techniques. Those directly connected to European Surrealism or strongly influenced by it used these techniques to subvert and alter the observable world. Harder to categorize are those whose work has certain qualities in common with Surrealism but who tinkered subtly with reality rather than dramatically changing it to expressive ends. Like the Surrealists, their strategies make the familiar unfamiliar, unsettling, or uncanny, and often involve manipulating the tools of representational art. Some, for example, distort spatial perspective by compressing or exaggerating it. They may crop or fragment what they depict, create strangejuxtapositions of objects, or unusual shifts in scale; they may distill or accentuate normal qualities in their surroundings-light, shadow, materials, textures-so that these appear abnormal or weird. Sigmund Freud, whose theories were seminal for Surrealism, described how the uncanny happens when "the distinction between imagination and reality is effaced," a fitting description of much of the work in this exhibition. This exhibition was organized by the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York. Legacy: The Emily Fisher Landau CollectionLegacy: The EmilyFisher Landau Collection is an exhibition of a selection of works from the historic gift of art pledged to the Museum in May 2010 bylongtime trustee Emily Fisher Landau. Co-curated by Donna De Salvo, the Whitney's Chief Curator and Deputy Director for Programs, and David Kiehl, the Museum's curator of prints and special collections. "Legacy: The Emily Fisher Landau Collection is the culmination of a single collector's enduring commitment to contemporary artists and to sharing a love of art," said Adam D. Weinberg, the Whitney's Alice Pratt Brown Director. "The gift goes beyond showcasing the best of American art to demonstrate a sense of adventure and a willingness to challenge conventional taste and fashion." Emily Fisher Landau's gift to the Whitney comprises 419 works by nearly one hundred key figures in American art. It is one of the most important gifts the institution has ever received. De Salvo noted, "We are privileged to be the recipient of this exceptional gift, a testament to Mrs. Landau's enterprising vision and longtime support of artists, often from the start of their careers. It's a great honor to present a selection of these works to the public." Emily Fisher Landau began collecting art in the late 1960s and since the early 1980s she has focused on building an important collection of contemporary American art. Legacy traces many of the ideas that have preoccupied artists in the United States since the late 1960s. Questions about the relevance of painting in the aftermath of Minimalism, debates about representation, "culture wars," and a revived interest in personal narratives are driving forces in the Emily Fisher Landau collection. Legacy allows these questions, as well as the question of what it means to collect contemporary art, to unfold in the galleries. One section of Legacy focuses on Minimalism, broadly defined, with seminal works by artists such as Carl Andre and Agnes Martin as well as works by John McLaughlin, Rodney Graham, Joseph Kosuth, Martin Puryear, and Al Taylor. Another section of the exhibition signals a return by artists to representational and other subjects generally associated with painting by artists such as John Baldessari, Barbara Kruger, Mark Tansey, Peter Cain, and Susan Rothenberg, as well as paintings by Willem de Kooning and Cy Twombly. Legacy highlights Landau's support of a younger group of artists who engaged in the political and social dialogue that came to the forefront in the vibrant downtown New York scene in the 1980s, a period when Landau began inearnest exploring downtown galleries and artists' studios. Important works by Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Robert Mapplethorpe, Peter Hujar, Nan Goldin, Keith Haring, David Wojnarowicz, and Lorna Simpson deal with AIDS, issues of politics and gender, and race. Legacy also shows the long-standing commitment Landau made to severalartists. Here, Richard Artschwager and Ed Ruscha are each represented by works spanning their entire careers. Also, a number of works by Jasper Johns, including a painting from the Catenary series and a selection from the gift's complete set of the artist's screenprints made between 1968 and 1982, provide an in-depth look at Johns's career and mastery of this printing process. Others include: -- Works by Carl Andre, including seminal typewriter drawings and poems of the early1960s and the large-scale sculpture 28 Lead Rectangle (1968);-- Works by Richard Artschwager, including his monumental painting City of Man(1981), which spans almost fifteen feet;-- Works by John Baldessari, including What This Painting Aims to Do (1967), a prime example of his important early text paintings;-- Photographs by Peter Hujar from the 1970s and 80s, including iconic portraits of Andy Warhol, Diana Vreeland, Divine, Lola Pashalinski, Susan Sontag, and David Wojnarowicz;-- Works by Jasper Johns, including the first of the artist's important Catenary paintings to enter the museum's comprehensive holdings of his work;-- A noteworthy 1987 painting by Willem de Kooning, Untitled, is the latest de Kooning canvas in the Whitney's collection;--Works by Agnes Martin, including important drawings from the 1960s and an early painting This Rain (c. 1960).-- Major works by Glenn Ligon, who addresses race and gender through text;-- Works by EdRuscha, ranging in date from 1965 to 2002, among them two important canvases, Give Him Anything and He'll Sign It (1965), one of his wry bird paintings, and Lion in Oil (2002), from the artist's recent series of mountain paintings. In addition to the works mentioned above, the exhibition will include significant paintings by Susan Rothenberg and Andy Warhol, and two stone benches by Jenny Holzer. Emily Fisher Landau became a trustee of the Whitney in 1990. At the Whitney, she has served as co-chair of the Contemporary Committee; a member of the Library Fellows; a member of the Chairman's Council; and has participated on several other Museum committees. In 1995, she generously established an endowment to support the Biennial, the Whitney's signature contemporary exhibition. That same year, the fourth floor galleries at the Whitney were named in her honor. In recognition of her many years of generosity, she was honored at the Whitney's 2006 annual fall Gala. Her daughter, Candia Fisher, has served on the Whitney's Print Committee (1996-2000) and Photography Committee (since 2007), continuing the family's tradition of generous support for the Whitney Museum. Emily Fisher Landau has shared her time and generosity beyond the walls of the Whitney. In 1991, the Fisher Landau Center for Art was established in Long Island City, housed in a former parachute harness factory. The Center, designed by Max Gordon in association with Bill Katz, is devoted to art education and the exhibition and study of the Fisher Landau collection of contemporary art and stages regular exhibitions drawn from its important holdings. She has served as a trustee of SITE Santa Fe and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, both in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and has also served on acquisition committees at the Museum of Modern Art, New York, for several decades. In 1999, she established the Fisher Landau Center for the Treatment of Learning Disabilities at Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Yeshiva University and has supported a program at Columbia University Teachers College and New York University that has helped New York City private-school students with learning disabilities. She was made a Chevalier, Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, by the government of France in 1986, received the Haym Solomon Award from the Anti-Defamation League in 2006, and was honored with the2008 CITYarts Making a Difference through the Arts Award. CatalogueLegacy: The Emily Fisher Landau Collection, edited by Dana Miller, showcases some of the best art made in the United States during the past five decades. Included are essays by Donna De Salvo and Joseph Giovannini. The book is published by the Whitney Museum of American Art, in association with Yale University Press, and contains entries on each of the artists whose works are included in the Landau gift, as well as a full-color checklist. This exhibition was organized by the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York. About the Grand Rapids Art Museum The mission of the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) is: to inspire discovery, enjoyment, and learning about art; to serve as a welcoming and inclusive cultural resource; to collect, conserve, and interpret works of art of the finest quality. Established in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, the new Art Museum is internationally known for its distinguished design and LEED Gold certified status. Established in 1910 as the Grand Rapids Art Association, GRAM has grown to include more than 5,000 works of art, including American and European 19th and 20th century painting and sculpture and more than 3,500 works on paper. Embracing the city's legacy as a leading center of design and manufacturing, GRAM has a growing collection in the area of design and modern craft. About the WhitneyThe Whitney Museum of American Art is the world's leading museum of twentieth-century and contemporary art of the United States. Focusing particularly on works by living artists, the Whitney is celebrated for presenting important exhibitions and for its renowned collection, which comprises over 19,000 works by more than 2,900 artists. With a history of exhibiting the most promising and influential artists and provoking intensedebate, the Whitney Biennial, the Museum's signature exhibition, has become the most important survey of the state of contemporary art in the United States. In addition to its landmark exhibitions, the Museum is known internationally for events and educational programs of exceptional significance and as a center for research, scholarship, and conservation. Founded by sculptor and arts patron Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney in 1930, the Whitney was first housed on West 8th Street in Greenwich Village. The Museum relocated in 1954 to West 54th Street and, in 1966, inaugurated its present home, designed by Marcel Breuer, at 945 Madison Avenue on the Upper East Side. While its vibrant program of exhibitions and events continues uptown, the Whitney is moving forward with a new building project, designed by Renzo Piano, in downtown Manhattan. Located at the corner of Gansevoort and Washington Streets in the Meatpacking District, at the southern entrance to the High Line, the new building, which has generated immense momentum and support, will enable the Whitney to vastly increase the size and scope of its exhibition and programming space. Ground was broken on the new building in May 2011, and it is projected to open to the public in 2015. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190223 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193829 Description: Opening August of 2012 (fingers crossed), Saburba will be a take-out restaurant featuring Chef-driven, Michigan inspired foods. In addition to foods prepared as you wait, we will also offer grab-and-go foods as well as boxed lunch options and catering for smaller affairs. Doughnut & coffee service every Saturday! *August 1, 2012 is an estimated date*  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193829 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=191487 Rock 'n Roll doesn't get any bigger than this! KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE... On the same stage... On the same night. This spectacle of spectacles announced today, KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE are uniting to launch THE TOUR of 2012. The summer's biggest, baddest rock tour will level 40+ cities nationwide starting July 20th. The Live Nation promoted tour will go on sale beginning Friday, March 23rd at Ticketmaster.com and LiveNation.com. Both bands will have fan club pre-sales beginning Wednesday, March 21st at 10am. Citi® cardmembers will also have access to presale tickets beginning Wedneday, March 21st at 2pm local time through Citi's Private Pass® Program. For complete presale details visit www.citiprivatepass.com. With combined album sales of almost 200 million, KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE are more than just iconic; they remain today as the dominant powerhouses of rock music tallying 30+ chart-topping hits, countless sold out tours and awards and accolades from around the world. Known for their elaborate and spectacular stage shows, each band plans to give fans the ultimate summer concert experience with the most impressive lighting and sound production ever and their signature over-the-top pyrotechnics. This is the first time KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE will share a stage since 1982. KISS consists of Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer. MÖTLEY CRÜE consists of Vince Neil, Mick Mars, Nikki Sixx and Tommy Lee.These veterans of the music business are still at the height of their popularity. KISS is the juggernaut of them all, with 3,000 licensed merchandise products, including the KISS golf course in Las Vegas and a new album. KISS has broken box office records set by The Beatles and Elvis. MÖTLEY CRÜE is the first rock band in history to have just completed an epic sold-out Las Vegas residency at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The band is best known for continuing to reinvent not only their live show (with mind blowing elements such as Tommy Lee's 360 drum roller coaster) and music (brand new song due out this spring), but remain on the cutting edge via social media interaction. MÖTLEY CRÜE's New York Times bestselling book The Dirt is currently being adapted into a major motion picture. Last month, the band was featured in one of the highest rated Super Bowl ads of all time for the KIA Optima. For tickets & VIP packages, including opportunities to meet KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE, please visit www.KISSonline.com or www.Motley.com http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=191487 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131535 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131535 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131628 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131628 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193049 Aaron Russman, a filmmaker from Grand Rapids is casting for his upcoming feature film. It is a modern adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's The Tell Tale Heart, a psychological thriller/horror film. The film is scheduled to be shot June 9th to 17th in and around the Grand Rapids & Lansing areas.Available Roles:Main Antagonist: A Caucasian male in his late 60′s/70′s to play the main antagonist, a wealthy recluse, in my mind tall and thin, very creepy. A Mr. Scrooge type for instance.Bank Employee: A young woman in her 20′s, able to play a supporting role as a friendly bank employee.Bank Manager: A middle-aged male who can portray a bank manager, in this case, a sniveling, petty little man.2 Police Detectives: Males in their 30′s/40′s who can convincingly portray police detectives.Compensation:These are paid roles, some shot in only a day/night, others will be a two day/night shoot, possibly three. How to Apply: If you are interested in applying, please email your resume and headshot to Aaron at: ahrussman@yahoo.com http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193049 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193315 You may have missed out on the day-long Michigan Lean Startup Conference, but join the after party fun for a cocktail and a bite to eat. Meet with the speakers from the conference and connect with the Michigan startup community. All are welcome. Hosted by Start Garden. Cash bar, food provided. Join us:RSVP http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193315 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=177991 Rivertown Bike Week will now take place July 9-14, 2013-------------------------------Press release:GRAND RAPIDS, MI - 10/24/11 - A convention for all types of motorcycle riders will be held next summer at the DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan.A gathering of bikers similar to Bikes On The Bricks in Flint and Muskegon Bike Time in Muskegon, Rivertown Bike Week will be held from Tuesday, July 10, 2012 through Sunday, July 15, 2012, to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project and the United Special Sportsmen Alliance.The Wounded Warrior Project is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that specializes in assisting wounded Iraqi and Afghani war veterans. The United Special Sportsman Alliance (USSA) is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit dream-wish-granting organization that specializes in sending critically ill and disabled youth on the outdoor adventure of their dreams.After eighteen months of wrangling with the City of Grand Rapids over the location of the event, founder and co-chairman Mark Mensch is excited to have finally located a venue, and to be moving forward. "For years I have had this dream to hold an event for all bikers in Grand Rapids, and thanks to Joel Langlois at the DeltaPlex, I  can finally see my dream come true," Mark said. "We will have something for everyone in the show. It will include attractions for Harley-Davidson riders, as well as bikers that ride metric cruisers."To encourage attendance, there will be no cost for admission, and as a result, the event is projected to easily attract a minimum of forty thousand people from the United States and Canada to the Grand Rapids area during the six day event.Consisting of displays by hundreds of vendors such as national motorcycle manufacturers, local motorcycle dealers and national motorcycle parts manufacturers, Rivertown Bike Week will also have ride-in motorcycle shows, stunt team shows, music, and food vendors. "Taxidermy artists will display their work, and motorcycle industry experts will hold public seminars," co-chariman and owner of DC Customs, Dave Van Suilichem said. "Our intention is to produce a happy, feel-good type of event that will not only be enjoyable to attend, but realistically capture the true nature and spirit of bikers.""For anyone that is concerned or scared of bikers, there is no need to worry. Rivertown Bike Week will be just the opposite of what you see in television shows like Sons of Anarchy and Gangland," Mark added.To encourage crowds to explore, stay, eat and play in the downtown area of Grand Rapids, Rivertown Bike Week will have a satellite location, hosted by a downtown nightclub, that will open at 8pm daily. A battle of the bands will be held at downtown Grand Rapids venues during the month of June, and the winners of the battle of the bands contest will provide the majority of the musical entertainment during Rivertown Bike Week. Based on similar events, Rivertown Bike Week attendees are conservatively expected to spend more than ten million dollars in the Grand Rapids area during the event.For more information, please go to http://www.deltaplex.com & http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org & http://www.childswish.com. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=177991 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131582 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131582 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131646 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131646 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189005 Arts in Ada, 2012 is scheduled for Saturday, May 19, 2012, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Join us under the oaks on Bronson St. for art, music, and dance. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189005 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195740 New time 5/20 Sunday 12-5Hey last year we stared in the GR Lip Dub that got 4,000,000 views now we are asked to dance in another flash mob. This one is a giant TV commercial. You won't be using you swing skills per say more of your dance moves in general. Saturday is the Choreography the dance and Sunday is the event. WHERE:401 Hall St. SWSuite. 484Grand Rapids, MI 49503WHEN:The Actual Dance is SundaySunday, May 20th 12-5Questions:Message Rob Blissor Call 6166174842 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195740 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=160814 Press release:Grand Rapids, Mich., March 10, 2011 - USA Table Tennis officials announced that the US Open will return to Grand Rapids, MI in 2012 as well as 2014. North America's largest table tennis tournament will take place at DeVos Place on July 3-8, 2012 and attract both domestic and international athletes. Michael D. Cavanaugh, CEO of USA Table Tennis stated, "The Board of Directors recently moved to accept staging our 2012 and 2014 U.S. Open in Grand Rapids, MI. This is a direct result of the wonderful experience we enjoyed in staging our 2010 U.S. Open in Grand Rapids. The local organizing committee, led by a USA Table Tennis favorite son, Dell Sweeris, enjoyed extraordinary support from the professionals at DeVos Place, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Experience Grand Rapids CVB and the West Michigan Sports Commission."  "We felt we were welcomed guests and made to feel a part of the community and family. It is this exact combination of known local organizing committee members who are partners with event professionals that makes our return visit so attractive to USA Table Tennis athletes, coaches, officials and staff" Cavanaugh stated.  Hosted by the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC), the 2010 US Open had 702 registered athletes that was an increase in attendance from the previous year in Las Vegas, NV. The WMSC calculates that the 2010 event brought an estimated $600,000+ in direct spending to the West Michigan area.  Mike Guswiler, Executive Director of the West Michigan Sports Commission stated, "On behalf of the West Michigan Sports Commission, our partners, and the local organizing committee; we are very pleased that USATT showed confidence in Grand Rapids and West Michigan to host both 2012 and 2014 based on our success of the 2010 U.S. Open." "The local media, community, and ‘ping-pong' enthusiasts of all ages came out in abundance to witness highly competitive table tennis and we hope to grow on that into the 2012 and 2014 events. The over 700 athletes and their families that traveled here in 2010, had nothing but positive remarks for the beauty and hospitality of our community. We look forward to welcoming them back" Guswiler stated. The local organizing committee was led by the WMSC and USA Table Tennis Foundation president and Hall of Fame inductee - Dell Sweeris and wife, Connie. Other committee members include Experience Grand Rapids CVB, DeVos Place, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and the City of Grand Rapids. Dell and Connie Sweeris expressed their excitement for the 2012/2014 U.S. Open. "It's an honor to bring the U.S Open back to West Michigan. 2012 is an Olympic year; we plan to capitalize on that to make the U.S. Open even bigger and better than 2010. In efforts to make 2012 a larger event, we are planning to work with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) to secure a date on their event calendar. If the 2012 U.S. Open becomes protected, it ensures no conflict of schedule with other major Table Tennis events. This was a problem in 2010, when our event was the same date as the Japan Open. We are also considering expanding the divisions, by adding a team division similar to the Olympics. The 2012 Open can serve as a training event for athletes to sharpen skills in preparation for the Olympics games." The US Open is the largest table tennis competition in North America and features hundreds of top rated domestic and international athletes. Participants compete in 60 event divisions on 90 tables. Since 1996, the US Open has been held in Anaheim, CA; Charlotte, NC; Chicago, IL; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Houston, TX; Las Vegas, NV, Grand Rapids, MI and will be held in Milwaukee, WI later this year. For more information, please contact Eric Engelbarts, West Michigan Sports Commission, at 616-233-3563 or by email at eengelbarts@westmisports.com  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=160814 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136717 Doors open at 9:00pmEntertainment start at 9:00pm$2 Cover  -  21+ http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136717 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131626 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131626 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136730 Doors open at 9:00pmEntertainment start at 9:00pm$2 Cover  -  21+ http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136730 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=176663 From the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation would like to thank you for your support of the of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation mission and our Finest at Wine & Roses event. It is our hope that all of our donors know that we are spending their money wisely and effectively - with that being said, I'm sorry to announce that, due to unforeseen circumstances, this year's Finest event has been re-scheduled for October 2012. We will not be holding our event on Thursday December 1st.  We will however deliver an exceptional Finest event in 2012 that we, our donors, honorees, and sponsors will be proud of.Thank you for your understanding and for so generously supporting the mission of the Foundation and helping to bring us that much closer to a cure. Please contact the Greater Michigan West Chapter office at 616-956-6850 if you have any further questions. The Finest Wine Tastings, Food Samplings & Finest Honorees...WM FinestAt the 8th Annual Wine & Roses, The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will be honoring West Michigan Finest Young Professionals, who show exemplary leadership, are active in their community, and have excelled in their profession or business. This is a black tie optional event. If you or someone you know would like to be Nominated as a candidate please call theCFF office at (616) 956-6850. *10/01/12 is a tentative date http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=176663 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193038 97.9 WGRD and the Free Beer & Hot Wings Show are proud to present Wingstock 2012, June 16, at Fifth Third Ballpark in Comstock Park, MI. Headlining the event are alt rock favorites Our Lady Peace, with support from West Michigan's own Pop Evil and Wayland, Dokken and more to be announced."This is the third annual Wingstock and our listeners know it's the first outdoor concert in Grand Rapids every year," said WGRD Program Director Jerry "JT" Tarrants. "While last year's bill was great with Seether, Hinder and Sick Puppies, we wanted to return to a diverse festival lineup for 2012."General admission seats are $25 and field tickets are $30 in advance, with a $5 increase for both tickets day of show. Subscribers to GRD's Freeloaders e-database will receive an e-mail that includes a password to purchase pre-sale tickets starting Thursday, April 26, at 10am EST through midnight of that day. All tickets will be priced at $25 during the pre-sale. Tickets to the general public will go on sale on Friday, April 27, at 10am EST, at the Fifth Third Ballpark box office, WGRD.com and by phone at 1-800-227-7946.Gates will open at 4pm rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges will be given. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193038 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192961  Van Halen has added 18 concerts to its highly successful 2012 North American tour. The newly added dates include a stop at Van Andel Arena on Thursday, July 26 at 7:30PM.  Ky-mani Marley is the opening act for all added concerts.Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 5th at 10 AM at ticketmaster.com, Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place box offices, Ticketmaster outlets or charge: 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are $29.50, $49.50, $75, $95 and $125.Van Halen recently premiered the video for She's The Woman, the second single from A Different Kind Of Truth, the band's first original studio album with singer David Lee Roth since the iconic, multi-platinum 1984.  Shot during its on-going live tour, the video presents a greatest hits of the band's concert moments.Fans and music critics alike have praised the group's recent shows: "Van Halen is still one of the most limber bands in hard rock, with a higher center of gravity than most." – New York TimesFormed in Los Angeles in 1974, Van Halen changed the rock and roll landscape forever with the release of their self-titled, 1978 debut album. Displaying unparalleled stage presence, musicianship, and songwriting abilities, the band has sold more than 75 million albums sold worldwide and created a record of achievement that is hard to top.  Van Halen joins an elite short list of two-time Diamond Award (10 million sales) honorees for their albums Van Halen and 1984. The band was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in March of 2007.Opening act, Ky-mani Marley, son of legendary Bob Marley, has gained world-wide recognition and praise for his musical style, which transcends cultural and creative boundaries incorporating world music, hip hop, blues, rock, and reggae into one melodic entity. Since 1999, Marley has released four studio albums and an autobiography, a GRAMMY nomination, and in 2009 started the charitable Love Over All Foundation (LOAF), which caters to empowering and educating youth.  Ky-mani Marley is currently putting the finishing touches on his new album, Evolution of a Revolution.  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192961 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189484  Grand Rapids-based CWD Real Estate Investment today announced plans to bring Cabela's Incorporated, one of the world's largest sporting goods retailers, to the firm's 43-acre mixed-use development in Grandville, Mich. The new 88,000-square-foot store is expected to open in spring 2013 and add approximately 200 full and part time jobs to the local economy.  As an anchor of CWD's 386,000-square-foot development project, Cabela's will be located at the southeast corner of 44th Street and Ivanrest, formerly home to X-Rite Inc. headquarters. Construction is scheduled to begin in summer 2012. Represented by Earl Clements of Colliers International in West Michigan, it will be the Sydney, Neb.-based specialty retailer's second store in Michigan, joining the Dundee location. "We are thrilled to welcome Cabela's to our community. Securing Cabela's as our second anchor will have a significant impact on our leasing efforts for the balance of the shopping center, which has already received strong interest from retailers," said Scott Wierda, managing partner of CWD, a full service boutique investment, brokerage and property management firm. "It also further solidifies the Grandville trade area as a dominant regional retail corridor and is the perfect location for the renowned outdoor recreation brand." According to Cabela's, the store will be built in its trademark style with an exterior of log construction, stonework, wood siding and metal roofing. A large glass storefront will showcase an interior inspired by outdoor living, including conservation-themed wildlife exhibits and trophy animal mounts displayed on a mountain with a built in aquarium. The store will offer a wide range of outdoor products as well as Cabela's in-store pickup service. "Because of the many great customers we have in the greater Grand Rapids area, we have been interested in building a store there for years," said Cabela's CEO Tommy Millner. "Michiganders are dedicated outdoorspeople, who live the Cabela's lifestyle and so many of them are loyal customers through our catalogs, website and Dundee store, we wanted to reward them with a Cabela's store of their own." The store will also feature a boat shop, gun library, bargain cave and fudge shop. "The City of Grandville takes great pride in providing a high quality retail opportunity to businesses and consumers in West Michigan, and we are very excited to add Cabela's to our long list of tremendous retailers," said Grandville Mayor James Buck. Buck added: "Congratulations to CWD Real Estate Investment for putting together a super project and a unique retail environment. Cabela's will be a great addition to the firm's development and will enhance Grandville's outstanding reputation as a West Michigan retail center." CWD launched its re-development of the former X-Rite space in 2009, and started construction last fall. The multi-phase project will feature retail, restaurant, office and recreational space. CWD will open phase one in October 2012. *March 21, 2013 is an estimated date*  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189484 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193509 From Facebook: Friends and customers, today is a sad day for the Kopper Top. After many long and hard decision making days for Marc and Don, they have decided to close the Kopper Top. For 42 years the Kopper Top has been an institution on the West side and this decision comes with great sorrow and heartbreak. We will stay open for the next 30 days so you can all come and enjoy your favorite meals at least one more time. Thank you for all of your support over the years. we are grateful to all of you. To help all of our other small business brothers and restaurants and bars in GR we will say --- PLEASE SUPPORT LOCAL - Tony Kisscorni's status *May 28, 2012 is an estimated date* http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193509 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193901  Overnight At Your Museum August 10-11Our Summer of Science culminates August 10 with Overnight At Your Museum. This immersive sleepover event is open to all – campers and non-campers, and is sure to be the talked-about event of your child's summer! Spend the evening at the Museum! Dance with mummies. Be part of a knight's battle, make potions and play Quidditch with wizards.Call 616.456.3977 to register or visit www.grmuseum.org/camp2012.  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193901 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131517 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131517 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189006 GR's largest annual outdoor event celebrates its 43rd year of honoring the arts in West Michigan. Dozens of food and artist booths stretch from Calder Plaza to Rosa Parks Circle and local musicians and dancers perform on six indoor and outdoor stages. The completely free community festival is supported by the efforts of more than 20,000 volunteers.June 1, 2 & 3, 2012 Festival Map (PDF)  List of Food Booths: Kinney Grange #754 (American)Popcorn, Caramel Corn, Cheddar Gold PopcornBethesda Baptist Church19 flavors shaved iceRenaissance Church of God in ChristWatermelon slicesHoly Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (Greek)Souvlaki (marinated pork sandwich), Baklava (filo dough dessert), Loukoumades (Greek honey donut holes)United Church of Wayland (Australian)Pavlova (meringue shell, whipped topping, strawberries, blueberries, kiwi), Green spiders (mint float)Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ (American)Foot Long Hot Dogs with Chili, Cheese, and Onion, Giant Dill Pickle, Assorted Chips, Lemon Chills, Rocket PopsBosnian Cultural Center (Bosnian)Burek (meat pie), Cheese Pie, Bosnian Kebab (lamb & beef, cucumber sauce, lettuce, tomato), Shish Kebab (chicken breast, green pepper, mushroom, onion), Crepes (Nutella or jelly topping) covered in powdered sugarLINC Revitalization Communities, IncRibs, Rib Tips, CatfishSt. George's Antiochian Orthodox Church (Lebanese)Kafta, Shawarma SandwichGreat Wisdom Meditation Center (Vegetarian)Stir Fried Noodles with Vegetables, Vegetarian Spring RollsImmaculate Heart of MaryPepperoni pizza puffsGeorgetown United Methodist Church (Dutch)Waffle Cone and a Variety of 6 Ice Cream FlavorsIslamic Cultural Center (ICC) Behar (Bosnian)Cevap (meat sausage), Burek (meat, cheese, or spinach pie), BaklavaChinese Association of Western Michigan (Oriental)Chicken (Nuggets), Fried Rice, Crab Cheese, Egg RollCommunity of ChristWalking TacoLegends Performing Arts Association (American)Battered/deepfried Corndogs, pickles, Oreos, Frozen lemonadeItalian American Club of West Michigan (Italian)Italian Sausage Sandwich, Italian IcesIslamic Mosque & Religious Institute (Middle Eastern/Mediterranean)Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Falafel Sandwich, Grilled Pizza (cheese only and cheese w/ halal pepperoni)Journey of Faith – West Michigan (Breakfast/Dessert)Homemade Grilled Cinnamon Rolls (with cream cheese icing), Cinnamon Ice Cream (with honey, pecans, whipped cream), Brewed Tea (hot and cold), Coffee (regular, decaf, and hazelnut w/ or w/o cinnamon ice cream on top),Wallin Congregational Church (American)Ground Beef BBQ, Pickle on a Stick, Dove Bars, Novelty Ice Cream on a StickThis Is Fellowship Ministries (Barbeque)Ribs, Rib tips, Turkey legs, Sandwiches (pulled pork and beef), Baked beans, Potato salad, ChipsOur Lady of LaVang (Vietnamese)Boneless Chicken on Skewer, Chicken Egg RollKenowa Hills Band Boosters (American Seafood)Shrimp on a Skewer, Garlic Bread, Fresh Squeezed LemonadeSteepletown Neighborhood Services (Polish)Kielbasa on a bun, Pierogis, Kapusta Dog (w/ Sauerkraut)Northview Athletic Boosters (American/Dessert)Elephant Ears with Cinnamon, Apple, or Cherry ToppingTeam Hendy Youth Wrestling Club - (American)Hot Pretzels, Dipping SaucesBosnian American Association of Women BeharPita w/beef and potato, Bosnian sandwich specialty (w/mushrooms, onions, tomato, sour cream), Pita cake with apples and dessert pita cakes w/milk and eggsInternational Society for Krishna Consciousness (East Indian)Blueberry and Strawberry Halava (semolina, butter, blueberries or strawberries, vanilla), Nimbupani (ice water, fresh lemon, ginger, rosewater)Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School BoostersCorndogs, Fries with Chili/Cheese/SaltsBuddhist Association of Michigan/ Tam Quang Temple (Vegetarian)Vegetarian Fried Rice, Vegetarian Egg Rolls, Cream Cheese Wontons     http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189006 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131560 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131560 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192967 Broadway Grand Rapids (BGR) announces its 2012-13 season line-up of shows highlighted by fancy footwork and inspiring stories.  The series includes BLUE MAN GROUP, FLASHDANCE, ANYTHING GOES, and BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSCIAL. In addition, there will be a special bonus show, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, between Christmas and New Years which makes for a perfect family outing during the holiday season. The engagement of CATS that was scheduled for June of the 2011-12 season has been rescheduled until October and will be a special event for the 2012-13 season.With the price of Broadway tickets soaring, the cost of bringing Broadway to Grand Rapids audiences is NOT taking off.  Affordable excellence is our mantra.  In a challenging economic environment we have adjusted our strategy to meet customer requests to "keep the season affordable" by offering a four-show season package. The four-show season package is a savings of up to 30% individual prices with packages starting as low as $113.00. FOUR-SHOW SUBSCRIPTION SERIESBLUE MAN GROUPSeptember 25-30, 2012Experience the Phenomenon. BLUE MAN GROUP is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music, and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. The New York Times heralds the show as "One of the most delightful performance pieces ever staged." E! Entertainment News exclaims, "BLUE MAN GROUP is what every live performance aspires to be." The Baltimore Sun raves, "Blue Man Group packs a wallop. It's a big, loud, funny, silly, visually arresting production!"Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that BLUE MAN GROUP is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, BLUE MAN GROUP is perfect for people of all ages, languages, and cultures. BLUE MAN GROUP is now on the road for its first U.S. theatrical tour. This unique experience is a form of entertainment like nothing else; guaranteed to be an outing you will never forget. FLASHDANCEJanuary 22-27, 2013Launching both a Broadway production and US National tour, FLASHDANCE tells the inspiring and unforgettable story of Alex Owens, a working-class girl from Pittsburgh with a dream of becoming a professional dancer.  She works by day as a steel mill welder, and a bar dancer at night while aspiring to be accepted at a prestigious ballet academy.  When Alex catches the eye of her boss Nick Hurley, their romance shows her the meaning of love and drives ambition to pursue her dream. The original Paramount Pictures film was a worldwide smash hit that became a pop culture phenomenon, grossing over $150 million and featuring a Grammy Award-winning soundtrack.  FLASHDANCE- THE MUSICAL features a score including the hit songs from the movie, all of which became Top Ten hits on the radio around the world including the Academy Award-winning title song "Flashdance - What a Feeling," "Maniac," "Gloria," "Manhunt," "I Love Rock & Roll."  In addition to these hits, 16 brand new original songs have been written for the stage by Robbie Roth and Robert Clay. ANYTHING GOESMay 14-19, 2013ALL ABOARD for this saucy and splendid production of Roundabout Theatre Company's ANYTHING GOES, winner of three 2011 Tony® Awards including Best Musical Revival and Choreography! One of the greatest musicals in theater history, Cole Porter's first class musical comedy is sailing to Grand Rapids while it continues a triumphant run on Broadway, where The New York Times calls it "MUSICAL-COMEDY JOY" and USA Today hails it as "GLORIOUS and EXHUBERANT!"When the S.S. American heads out to sea, etiquette and convention get tossed out the portholes as two unlikely pairs set off on the course to true love… proving that sometimes destiny needs a little help from a crew of singing sailors, an exotic disguise and some good old-fashioned blackmail. Peppering this timeless classic are some of musical theater's most memorable standards, including "I Get a Kick Out of You," "You're the Top," and of course, "Anything Goes."    Don't miss what the AP exclaims as, "So DELIGHTFUL, So DELICIOUS, So DE-LOVELY!" BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICALJune 11-16, 2013GRAND RAPIDS IS ABOUT TO BE ELECTRIFIED BY BROADWAY'S "BEST MUSICAL OF THE DECADE!"  Time MagazineThrilling audiences worldwide and winning TEN 2009 Tony® Awards including Best Musical, "THE BEST SHOW YOU WILL EVER SEE," (New York Post) is now coming to DeVos Performance Hall.  BILLY ELLIOT the MUSICAL is a joyous celebration of one boy's journey to make his dreams come true. Ben Brantley of The New York Times calls BILLY ELLIOT the MUSICAL "THE MOST INSPIRING SHOW I'VE SEEN IN YEARS" Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent that inspires his family and his whole community and changes his life forever.Based on the international smash-hit film, BILLY ELLIOT the MUSICAL is brought to life by a phenomenal cast and the Tony® Award-winning creative team – director Stephen Daldry,  choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee hall – along with music legend Elton John, who has written what the New York Post calls "HIS BEST SCORE YET!"   A big musical with an even bigger heart, BILLY ELLIOT the MUSICAL will enchant the dreamer in all of us!  SPECIAL EVENTS (Available to Season Ticket Holders before the General Public) CATSOctober 18-21, 2012CATS is the longest running, most popular, North American Touring Production in history!  There's no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theatre than with the magic, the mystery, the memory of CATS. What began as a musical about cats, after Andrew Lloyd Webber picked up a book of poems in an airport bookshop, has become one of the longest running shows in Broadway's history. Winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, CATS features 20 of Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless melodies, including the hit song "Memory." BEAUTY AND THE BEASTDecember 26-30, 2012Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, the smash hit Broadway musical, is coming to Grand Rapids! Based on the Academy® Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including "Be Our Guest" and the beloved title song. Experience the romance and enchantment of Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST at DeVos Performance Hall. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW Broadway Grand Rapids offers a Four-Show Subscription package that offers up to 30% off individual ticket prices, discounts on Special Events and advance ticket purchasing before the general public for all presentations.  We offer easy payment plans, free lost-ticket replacement, no-fee ticket exchanges, personalized service, exclusive privileges, and the same reserved seats for each show. The Subscription Series package price ranges from $113 to $319, depending on seating section and performance day and time. The 2012-2013 Subscription Series may be renewed or purchased from Broadway Grand Rapids by calling 616-235-6285 in person at 122 Lyon Street NW in downtown Grand Rapids, by mail using the order form which can be downloaded from the website or on the new ONLINE ordering system at www.broadwaygrandrapids.com . BGR office hours are 9 to 5 Monday through Thursday, and 9 to 4 on Fridays. The subscription renewal deadline is Friday, May 29th, 2012.To receive exclusive pre-sale offers and discounts on upcoming shows sign up for the BGR Eclub at www.BroadwayGrandRapids.com/Eclub.  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192967 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194133 Press Release: Rockford Construction today announced plans to invest up to $4.7 million to relocate its headquarters to downtown Grand Rapids contingent on receiving support from city and state brownfield programs.. Reflecting Rockford's commitment to sustainability, the headquarters would be an adaptive reuse of what is now a vacant, contaminated factory at 601 First Street NW south of I-196 and a few blocks west of U.S. 131. The project will result in more than 160 jobs being moved into the city of Grand Rapids. Rockford acquired the First Street property in 2011 with the goal of continuing to play a role in the resurgence of downtown and the West Side Neighborhood. Rockford's current headquarters on Glenwood Hills Parkway in Cascade Township has been sold to Lake Michigan Credit Union. Rockford is preparing to move into temporary leased space while it assesses options for its permanent headquarters location. "Rockford and its partners were catalysts in redeveloping downtown and helping to make it a vibrant place to live, work and play," said Mike VanGessel, CEO and chairman of Rockford Construction. "Our ability to contemplate an investment of this magnitude hinges on successfully negotiating a deal with the city and state to help remove environmental hazards and other impediment to redevelopment that exist at this site. It is our desire to provide a first-class business environment for our employees, contractor partners and clients." The city's Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will consider a request for a tax reimbursement of up to $1.1 million. The incentive would help offset some costs related to demolition, a comprehensive environmental assessment, removal of contaminated soil, lead-based paint and asbestos abatement and infrastructure improvements. As with other brownfield tax increment financing (TIF) plans, Rockford would receive a partial refund of the new property taxes generated as a result of its investment in the property. If the city brownfield authority approves Rockford's plan, it will be sent to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for further consideration. If approved by the state, Rockford could break ground on the First Street property by late summer. "Projects like this were what the brownfield program was created to encourage," said Kara Wood, economic development director for the city of Grand Rapids. "By partnering with companies like Rockford to clean up contaminated sites like this one, we can revitalize underutilized properties and bring high-quality jobs into our neighborhoods."  *Groundbreaking date of 8/31/2012 is an estimate* http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194133 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190209 Experience Grand Rapids announced the official results of Restaurant Week Grand Rapids 2011 that took place in November 2011. The announcement was made during Experience Grand Rapids' Annual Celebration where four leading Grand Rapids chefs prepared a four-course lunch for guests in attendance. Experience Grand Rapids President Doug Small was pleased to announce that Restaurant Week Grand Rapids 2011 met their goal of raising over $20,000 to add to the Student Scholarship Fund at Secchia Institute for Culinary Education established in 2010 by participating restaurants in the event. Seventy-one participating restaurants donated one dollar from each restaurant week meal sold in 2011 which added up to $20,393 in total raised and a "big" check for the Secchia Institute. Small also gave considerable credit to the sponsors of Restaurant Week Grand Rapids and singled out the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority who were major underwriters in 2011 giving $25,000 to support the event.  Small said, "We love that we are able to help a worthy Grand Rapids institution that focuses on food with Restaurant Week funding. The Secchia Institute for Culinary Education is one of the top twenty most acclaimed culinary schools in the country and the students who attend the school receive a wonderful education with many of them deciding to stay in the community to work in the restaurant industry. This helps us all in growing Grand Rapids' reputation as a wonderful culinary city. The DDA and all of the Sponsors can be proud that their support flows back into helping the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education."  The Secchia Institute Student Scholarship fund from Restaurant Week now stands at almost $40,000. In addition to $20,393 dollars raised in 2011, $19,128 was raised and donated to the school in 2010 from the participating restaurants of Restaurant Week Grand Rapids. The fund has raised $39,521 over the two-year timeframe. Most of the money is used for building an endowment fund with some of the money each year used to help worthy students with their culinary class expenses. Small also announced future plans for Restaurant Week by saying, "We are excited to announce new news about Restaurant Week Grand Rapids for 2012. We will hold the event in August this year – from Wednesday, August 15 through Saturday, August 25 in order to reach a new and growing foodie audience. August's Restaurant Week Grand Rapids 2012 will be a 1-for-$25 event. It is being designed to provide a late summer upscale experience featuring restaurants that want to showcase their creativity in producing a 3-course menu utilizing fresh produce and foods from Michigan as well as other unique foods that can be acquired from suppliers. Experience Grand Rapids feels that the August timeframe will bring more people into downtown Grand Rapids and the outlying communities to take advantage of the nice weather and also give restaurants more opportunity to create menus using "fresh from the farm" foods that many Grand Rapids fine dining restaurants love to source. Small also hinted at a second Restaurant Week event to be held in Winter 2013 that would be "unique and different" and give food lovers another reason to dine out during the winter months at places that they have yet to try. More news about the winter event will be released by early Summer 2012. Additional InformationArea restaurants will be contacted to participate in the 2012 event in March 2012. Restaurants will be required to pay a small registration fee to participate as well as donate $1 from each $25 3-course Restaurant Week Grand Rapids meal purchased to add to the student scholarship fund at Secchia Institute for Culinary Education of Grand Rapids Community College. 2011 RWGR Highlights 71 restaurants participated – 37 within the downtown DDA District and 34 from throughout Kent County – this number is up from 57 restaurants that participated in 2010;There were 25,860 diners who ordered off the Restaurant Week menus in 2011 vs. 19,128 in 2010 accounting for 35% growth in the event;$20,393 was raised for the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education student fund. One dollar from each Restaurant Week meal sold was donated by all 71 of the participating restaurants to the Secchia Institute Fund;The audience for Restaurant Week in year two grew to approximately 40,000 diners versus 30,000 in year one;There was a 32% increase in online use of the RestaurantWeekGR.com website in year two than in year one;A new mobile site was built to accommodate the increased use of cell phones, iPads, and other mobile devices – at least 10% of online viewers used mobile devices;$1.25 million dollars in estimated restaurant sales were a direct result of the Restaurant Week Grand Rapids promotion; http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190209 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192518  Community leaders and festival organizers today officially announced a major new music festival coming to West Michigan this summer: GRandJazzFest comes to Grand Rapids' Rosa Parks Circle on Saturday, Aug. 18, for an entire day and evening of free performances featuring major jazz artists who are Michigan-based."We've got Blues on the Mall. We've got Festival of the Arts and Celebration on the Grand. We've got ArtPrize and LaughFest. … I'm proud to announce that we now have GRandJazzFest!" Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell said at a press conference to announce the event.The festival is being organized by Grand Rapids resident Audrey Sundstrom and a group of jazz aficionados, including the West Michigan Jazz Society, who are bringing the daylong festival to the region."For years, my husband Greg and I and our friends have gone to jazz festivals in other parts of the state – great festivals. There's just one thing wrong with them: they're not here! So, we're excited to bring a major jazz festival to West Michigan," Sundstrom said. She is the wife of City of Grand Rapids Manager Greg Sundstrom.The festival is being financed by generous sponsors and a number of in-kind contributors so it can be free to the public. "GRandJazzFest is pleased today to announce our presenting sponsor – DTE Energy Foundation," Audrey Sundstrom said. "DTE is an organization that is hugely present in and committed to our community. We are so thankful for their gracious and generous support!"DTE Energy Foundation representative Roger Royer noted that Grand Rapids recently was acknowledged by Forbes magazine as the best city in the United States in which to raise a family."Grand Rapids was recognized nationally as a GREAT place to raise a family, and praise goes to Mayor Heartwell and his team for that. And we at DTE thought that, as the excitement and heat of the summer builds, adding some cool jazz to the equation would contribute to making Grand Rapids a great place to be. The festival fits great with our mission of being involved in the fabric of the communities we serve, and GRandJazzFest is a fantastic thing for the entire West Michigan community," Royer said.West Michigan Jazz Society is the non-profit fiduciary entity for GRandJazzFest, and the festival itself is not-for-profit. The jazz society organizes numerous jazz events, including winter jazz gumbos and summer concerts."We hope this new event will become a permanent event on the Grand Rapids arts and festivals calendar," West Michigan Jazz Society President Craig Benjamin said. "The WMJS Board is proud to be associated with GRandJazzFest, and we look forward to a long and successful collaboration in support of America's own original art form."Jazz is being played in more and more venues throughout West Michigan. Greg Gilmore who owns Gilmore Collection recently turned Ottawa Tavern into a jazz club. Gilmore Collection provided free pulled-pork sandwiches and sweet-potato chips at the press conference to announce the jazz festival. Three of six acts announcedGRandJazzFest announced that renowned guitarist Tim Bowman will headline the Aug. 18 event."Tim is from the Big D, Detroit, and is an extraordinary contemporary jazz guitarist who headlined the 2007 Guitars and Saxes Tour alongside Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum and Jeff Golub," Sundstrom said.Bowman was named Billboard's 2009 Top 10 Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year and, at the Dubai International Jazz Festival, was named Best Guitarist of 2010.Another major performer announced as part of the GRandJazzFest lineup is Phil Denny, a saxophonist from Lansing. Denny was a featured performer at the 2012 Dubai International Jazz Festival.A third performing group on Aug. 18 will be Grand Rapids' very own Walt Gutowski & The Bridge Street Band. Gutowski and his band played at the press conference, giving attendees a taste of the jazz fest to come. The three additional acts will be announced in the coming months."All six of our performing groups are Michigan-local. In this first year of our festival, the Michigan connection – supporting Michigan artists – is very important to us," Sundstrom said. Support for local businesses"It's also important to us to support Michigan businesses, which is why we chose to have the festival in downtown GR, very walkable to many restaurants, bars, shops and museums that can be enjoyed the day of the festival," Sundstrom said.The Downtown Development Authority in March awarded GRandJazzFest a $10,000 grant because of the festival's commitment to supporting downtown merchants.More information on GRandJazzFest – including the schedule and sponsorship/volunteer opportunities – can be found at www.grandjazzfest.org, and at the festival's Facebook and Twitter sites – www.facebook.com/grandjazzfest and www.twitter.com/grandjazzfest.    http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192518 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131625 Happy Hour from 3:00pm - 9:00pmCover starts at 8:30pmEntertainment starts at 9:30pm http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=131625 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192041 The Fresh Beat Band, Nickelodeon's popular preschool music group and stars of the hit TV series of the same name, are adding a second leg (50 cities, 70 performances) to their current sold-out nationwide concert tour and will play DeVos Performance Hall on Sunday, October 14 at 5:30pm. More than 200,000 fans will have seen the live show by the end of the first run making it one of this year's most successful music tours.  Tickets and Fresh Beat Band VIP packages will be available at www.freshbeatbandlive.com, the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com, or charge at 800-745-3000 beginning Friday, April 13 at 10am for $29.50 and $39.50.  Nickelodeon and Ticketmaster will offer pre-sale tickets and VIP packages beginning Thursday, April 5, at 10am local time in each city.  Citi® card members will also have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Thursday, April 5, at 10am through Citi's Private Pass Program at www.CitiPrivatePass.com."The Fresh Beat Band Live in Concert tour has ignited a fan frenzy and we're thrilled that so many kids and parents want to come see the Fresh Beats perform live," said Paula Kaplan, Executive Vice President, Talent Strategy and West Coast Operations, Nickelodeon Group. "The additional tour dates will give more kids across the country an opportunity see their favorite rock stars – Kiki, Marina, Twist and Shout."  The Fresh Beat Band Live in Concert Tour Presented By Nickelodeon features Kiki (Yvette Gonzalez-Nacer), Shout (Thomas Hobson), Marina (Tara Perry) and Twist (Jon Beavers) performing The Fresh Beat Band hits from seasons one, two and three of the Nickelodeon live-action music series that teaches preschoolers about music appreciation.  Songs performed include "Here We Go, "A Friend Like You, "Bananas," and "Just Like A Rockstar," among others.  The first-ever The Fresh Beat Band soundtrack – The Fresh Beat Band: Music From The Hit TV Show -- is currently available on iTunes and in stores everywhere.Nickelodeon will premiere a new episode of The Fresh Beat Band, "Keeping It Green," on Earth Day, Friday, April 20, at 1:30 p.m. (ET/PT).  The Fresh Beat Band debuted in 2009 and is now in its third season on Nickelodeon. The Fresh Beat Band centers on four best friends – Kiki, Shout, Marina and Twist – in a band who love to sing and dance.  In each episode, preschoolers sing and dance along as they help The Fresh Beat Band solve everyday challenges. Preschoolers learn the fundamentals of music such as melody, rhythm, tempo and performance styles and the importance of friendship, working together, and respecting each other's differences.  Ne-Yo, Justin Bieber and Jason Mraz have all hung out with the Fresh Beats and additional celebrity guests will appear throughout season three.  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192041 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=176963 April 12, 2012 update:Venue registration for ArtPrize 2012 closed at 5:00 p.m. today. Nearly 200 venues went online and used ArtPrize.org to create a profile for their space and begin the process of creating their own exhibition for the fourth annual event.  Complete metrics are included below.To participate in ArtPrize, a venue must secure a relationship with at least one artist during Connections period, April 23 through June 14, 2012.Artist Registration opens April 23.  ArtPrize 2012 takes place Sept. 19-Oct. 7, 2012.ArtPrize Venue Metrics include:Total Venues: 192New Venues: ~34Exhibition Centers: 7Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture ParkGerald R. Ford Presidential MuseumGrand Rapids Art MuseumGrand Rapids Public MuseumKendall College of Art and DesignSt. Cecilia Music CenterUrban Institute of Contemporary ArtShowcase Venues: 3Cathedral SquareSiTE:LAB @ 54 JeffersonWomen's City ClubVenues by Neighborhood:Central City - 77Heartside - 49Hillside - 28Westside - 22Monroe North/Belknap - 13 -------------------------------Details to be announced---------------Dec 20, 2011: NEW STUDY SHOWS $15.4 MILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT DURING ARTPRIZE 2011More than 320,000 people attended the 19-day international art competitionGRAND RAPIDS, Mich., December 20, 2011 - A new economic impact study released today by Experience Grand Rapids and conducted by East Lansing-based Anderson Economic Group, LLC (AEG) reveals the 2011 ArtPrize event added $15.4 million to the local economy, attracted more than 320,000 visitors and created more than 200 new jobs during its 19 days."For the past three years, we have seen first-hand the remarkable transformation of our city thanks in large part to this incredible social experiment, and it was time we understood and quantified its impact," said Doug Small, president of Experience Grand Rapids. "The new study validates much of what we've known since ArtPrize launched: it has a clear and positive impact on Grand Rapids."The report, "The Economic Impact of ArtPrize 2011," was conducted during and immediately following this year's event to capture current year data. Key findings in the study include:1. ArtPrize generated more than 320,000 attendee days, drawing people from across the county and around the world into the Grand Rapids area.2. ArtPrize generated more than $10.1 million in net new spending by attendees plus an additional $1.9 million in local expenditures related to event operations.3. The total net new economic impact from ArtPrize 2011 is estimated to have been $15.4 million. This generated 204 jobs and more than $4.6 million in new earnings for local households.4. ArtPrize also provides intangible benefits to Greater Grand Rapids by increasing awareness of the region, enriching the creative culture and increasing social capital."The economic impact of ArtPrize is considerable, especially for an event that is still in its infancy," said Scott Watkins, a senior consultant with AEG. "By drawing people downtown and not charging an admission, our study shows locals and visitors alike spend money at area businesses that might not otherwise attract them as customers."The study provides a comprehensive assessment of event attendance, visitor spending, local spending by the ArtPrize organization, and the economic impacts that accrue beyond the initial expenditures of visitors and the host organization. It also accounts for economic substitution. The analysis illustrates the new economic activity attributable to ArtPrize and does not double count spending in the area that would have otherwise occurred if the event was not held."While the report shows the economic benefits to our region, ArtPrize has a much broader value. For nearly three weeks, it places Grand Rapids in the national and international spotlight showcasing all that we have to offer," added Small. "The event has helped to capture the attention of national meeting planners to consider Grand Rapids for a future convention."In 2009, ArtPrize charged onto the Grand Rapids scene using a distinct decentralized format and renowned public vote. In subsequent years it added juried awards to explore the tension between the professional and populist in an epic conversation about art."Communities thrive when individuals are given the flexibility and encouragement to be creative and a population is provided with the freedom to voice their opinion," concluded Catherine Creamer, executive director of ArtPrize. "The Anderson study shows that small experiments like ArtPrize can have significant impact, and we are pleased that Grand Rapids is thriving as a result."Anderson Economic Group has broad experience analyzing the economic impacts for a variety of events, including Major League Baseball games, the Olympic Games and Ryder Cup as well as for numerous other regional and statewide initiatives and institutions in the private and public sector.In addition to Experience Grand Rapids, The Right Place, Inc. and WKK Fund of the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, contributed to funding the study.The full report is available online at http://www.experiencegr.com/media/current-news-releases/. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=176963 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189807 Here's the lineup (show details & individual ticket prices to be announced):September 7-22: Dixie Swim Club, comedyOctober 19-28: Flat Stanley, children's musicalNovember 16-December 16: A Christmas Carol, musicalJan 18-Feb 3: The Heart is a Lonely Hunter, playMarch 1-24: Fiddler on the Roof, musical April 19-28: Anne of Green Gables, family musicalMay 31-June 16: Legally Blonde The Musical, musical July 26-Aug 4: Changing Minds, children's musicalJuly 26-Aug 4: 12 Dancing Princesses, children's play http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189807 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190001 Rob Zombie & Megadethwsg. Lacuna CoilFriday, May 18Doors 6pmAll Ages Welcome!**TICKETS ON SALE MARCH 2ND AT 10AM**Tickets will be on sale Friday, March 2nd at 10am at the DeltaPlex Box Office, DeltaPlex.com & Etix.com! http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190001 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=183401 Enjoy a day at the beach as the sky is filled with colorful kites of all types and sizes. World-famous stunt kite fliers perform to music on the center flying field while kites larger than a school bus hover near the pier. Bring a windbreaker and a beach chair and plan to spend day. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=183401 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193448 Blues music on Wednesday evenings, June 6-August 8.  Ottawa Ave. will be shut down to make room for bike parking and a huge outdoor drinking/party area. The nights will feature live bands, DJ's and tons of giveaways http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193448 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=180816 Millennium Park will be the start and finish of an epic four hours of adventure racing on May 19. One of the largest urban parks in the nation won't be massive enough for this race though. You'll be heading in every direction of the compass, facing these challenges: Canoe Lake Leota looking for flags hidden on island, shore and peninsula. Marriage counselors standing by (and a free paddling clinic before the race if there's enough interest).Bike through gorgeous marshes and urban streets, on as much rough stuff as we can find but plenty of wicked fast pavement too.Conquer Amazing Race challenges, the 'œsignatureâ' of the race, that will test your body and mind -- but not too mental. This is supposed to be fun after all.Maneuver through beautiful forest and city with a compass. Intimidated? We'll help you master the compass in ten minutes at one of our clinics.Hunt for 30-50 flags hidden throughout the race course. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=180816 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195621 Auditions for Actors and ActressesGabe Melinn, writer, producer, and director is gearing up to produce a short film, "The End". We are looking for cast members for the film. Filming will take place over a few Saturdays in July 2012 at various locations in and around Grand Rapids, MI. Plot:The short film is based on the world's water being in short supply and one man's crazy idea that everybody in the United States will be coming to Michigan makes him take up arms to defend his home and water supply. Audition details:Friday, June 8th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm WKTV studios (Upstairs)5261 Clyde Park Avenue SouthwestWyoming, MI Available Roles:Casey: (Female ages 25 – 40) Attractive, at least shoulder length hairKyle: (Male age's 25 – 40) Scruffy longer hair on top – possible beard or mustacheBill: (Male age's 25 – 40) Clean cut possible beard or mustacheLiz: (Female age's 13 – 16) Long hair MUST be able to cry on the spot.Stacey: (Female ages 18 – 25) Attractive must be able to actRyan: (Male age's 18 – 25) Short hair clean cutDick: (Male age's 25 – 40) Can be overweight short hair retail mgrBrad: (Male ages 50 – 60) Can be overweight must have southern accent.Jon: (Male age's 25 – 40) Should be clean cut possible mustacheExtras: (Males ages 18 – 40)Compensation: These are not paid roles. Lunch will be provided. How to Apply: If you are interested in applying, please e-mail your resume and head shot to: gmelinn@gmail.com NOTE: Even if you do not have a resume and you are looking for a start send an e-mail with head shot. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195621 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=139020 Traditional Irish music gathering (session). Alternates weekly between McFadden's Pub and The Tavern on The Square. Any musicians who play Irish music are welcome to bring an instrument and everyone else is invited to listen. Drink specials at both venues. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=139020 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195873  The Heritage Hill Association presents its 43rd annual Heritage Hill Weekend Tour of Homes. Seven private homes, 5 historic buildings, and an array of architecture, colors, decorating styles, and great urban gardens await you. The Heritage Hill neighborhood dates from 1843 and its 1,300 homes represents Michigan's finest collection of 19th and 20th century American architecture. Advance tickets for Tour are $15.00 and are available at the Heritage Hill Association office. Write to the Heritage Hill Association, 126 College SE; Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or go to http://www.heritagehillweb.org for online sales. Tickets on the weekend of Tour are $18.00. Call 616-459-8950 with any questions or for more information.   http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195873 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189749 ABOUT THIS PROJECTA Second Chance at Life...for me, a lifelong dream now has the momentum to see it come to life. My goal, to build a life size Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. Along with the potential to break two world records (largest paper mache clay sculpture and largest handmade skeleton) this massive project will also encompass a tattooed mural, painted directly on the skeleton to tell the story of inspiration this project follows.After many years working within the corporate landscape, the nightmare most hope to never hear became a reality for me. Corporate downsizing and economic instability meant that the normal way of life, the American Dream, would come to a halt. It is in a moment of stress that overwhelming obstacles were surmounted and a new direction in life was established. And in this idea, the birth of this project.A story of overcoming the hardships of life, gaining the support and clarity to move through them, and the momentum to carry one's self into a brighter future.This video a proof of concept to support the goal of erecting a full size T-rex to be displayed at Art Prize in Grand Rapids, Michigan in late 2012. Much funding is still required to finish out the project and we have faith that through this platform we can attain the means necessary to bring this dinosaur back to life.If you feel compelled, your donation can mean a world of difference in inspiring one man as works to inspire many.The remaining components of this project that need funding include:  Fabrication Adhesives, Steel Frame Materials and Fabrication, Resin Coating and Marine Epoxy for Waterproofing, Paint, Concrete and Rock for the Base,  Space Rental, Insurance, and Transportation and Set Up Costs.Your support will help cover costs of these materials to complete this project. Support here: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/53747705/a-second-chance-at-lifethe-t-rex-project?ref=live http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189749 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192930 MAY 18 / 9pm-2amLight up with us for one night only!Soundtrack by DJs Matt B & DanimalGuests are highly encouraged to wear "glow" attire (glow-in-the-dark clothing, paint, make-up, glow sticks, etc)$10 cover / 21+ only http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=192930 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=160817 Press release:Grand Rapids, Mich., March 10, 2011 - USA Table Tennis officials announced that the US Open will return to Grand Rapids, MI in 2012 as well as 2014. North America's largest table tennis tournament will take place at DeVos Place on July 3-8, 2012 and attract both domestic and international athletes. Michael D. Cavanaugh, CEO of USA Table Tennis stated, "The Board of Directors recently moved to accept staging our 2012 and 2014 U.S. Open in Grand Rapids, MI. This is a direct result of the wonderful experience we enjoyed in staging our 2010 U.S. Open in Grand Rapids. The local organizing committee, led by a USA Table Tennis favorite son, Dell Sweeris, enjoyed extraordinary support from the professionals at DeVos Place, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Experience Grand Rapids CVB and the West Michigan Sports Commission."  "We felt we were welcomed guests and made to feel a part of the community and family. It is this exact combination of known local organizing committee members who are partners with event professionals that makes our return visit so attractive to USA Table Tennis athletes, coaches, officials and staff" Cavanaugh stated.  Hosted by the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC), the 2010 US Open had 702 registered athletes that was an increase in attendance from the previous year in Las Vegas, NV. The WMSC calculates that the 2010 event brought an estimated $600,000+ in direct spending to the West Michigan area.  Mike Guswiler, Executive Director of the West Michigan Sports Commission stated, "On behalf of the West Michigan Sports Commission, our partners, and the local organizing committee; we are very pleased that USATT showed confidence in Grand Rapids and West Michigan to host both 2012 and 2014 based on our success of the 2010 U.S. Open." "The local media, community, and ‘ping-pong' enthusiasts of all ages came out in abundance to witness highly competitive table tennis and we hope to grow on that into the 2012 and 2014 events. The over 700 athletes and their families that traveled here in 2010, had nothing but positive remarks for the beauty and hospitality of our community. We look forward to welcoming them back" Guswiler stated. The local organizing committee was led by the WMSC and USA Table Tennis Foundation president and Hall of Fame inductee - Dell Sweeris and wife, Connie. Other committee members include Experience Grand Rapids CVB, DeVos Place, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and the City of Grand Rapids. Dell and Connie Sweeris expressed their excitement for the 2012/2014 U.S. Open. "It's an honor to bring the U.S Open back to West Michigan. 2012 is an Olympic year; we plan to capitalize on that to make the U.S. Open even bigger and better than 2010. In efforts to make 2012 a larger event, we are planning to work with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) to secure a date on their event calendar. If the 2012 U.S. Open becomes protected, it ensures no conflict of schedule with other major Table Tennis events. This was a problem in 2010, when our event was the same date as the Japan Open. We are also considering expanding the divisions, by adding a team division similar to the Olympics. The 2012 Open can serve as a training event for athletes to sharpen skills in preparation for the Olympics games." The US Open is the largest table tennis competition in North America and features hundreds of top rated domestic and international athletes. Participants compete in 60 event divisions on 90 tables. Since 1996, the US Open has been held in Anaheim, CA; Charlotte, NC; Chicago, IL; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Houston, TX; Las Vegas, NV, Grand Rapids, MI and will be held in Milwaukee, WI later this year. For more information, please contact Eric Engelbarts, West Michigan Sports Commission, at 616-233-3563 or by email at eengelbarts@westmisports.com  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=160817 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190680 One of the biggest country stars in the world, Trace Adkins, has announced the schedule for his upcoming Songs & Stories Tour.  Adkins brings his highly anticipated tour to DeVos Performance Hall on Wednesday, July 18th at 7:30pm. Tickets are $35.00, $49.50 and $69.50 and go on sale this Friday, March 9th at 10:00am.  Tickets can be purchased at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster outlets and charge by phone: 800-745-3000. Adkins found inspiration for the Songs & Stories Tour after he released his 10th studio album, Proud To Be Here, last summer with a CMT Invitation-only special. The special featured new hits "Just Fishin" and "Million Dollar View," a Q&A session and the most-loved songs from Adkins' twenty-year career. The taping was so fun for Trace and his guests that he began laying plans for a tour. "The point of this tour is to get together and share meaningful songs, stories and some laughs 'around the campfire' – it's the Country music tradition." Fans can share their own stories, questions and the songs that have inspired or shaped their lives on the Songs & Stories page at www.traceadkins.com. From humble beginnings as a small-town Louisiana roughneck, to a Country superstar with a twenty-year career of hits to his recent roles as outspoken author and actor, Adkins' life parallels the songs he sings. His albums showcase a range of earnest tributes and party anthems with humor and depth – the Songs & Stories Tour promises to offer the same. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190680 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194009 Superstar Carrie Underwood announced this morning during her appearance on Good Morning America to promote her new album, Blown Away, that she will launch a headline North American arena tour this fall. "The Blown Away Tour" will also include an international run of shows this summer sponsored by Olay, including her first-ever United Kingdom concert taking place at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London on June 21, which sold-out in 90 minutes. Underwood will be in Grand Rapids at Van Andel Arena on November 15th. Special guest Hunter Hayes will open. Ticket information for the Grand Rapids date will be announced later. Stay tuned to vanandelarena.com for more information. "I can't wait to get back out on the road and perform new music from my new album for my fans," says Carrie.  "We have a lot of exciting things planned!" Carrie is donating $1 from each ticket sold on the North American leg of "The Blown Away Tour" to support Red Cross disaster relief.  Every year, the American Red Cross prepares for and responds to nearly 70,000 disasters across the United States.  This donation will help the Red Cross provide shelter, food, and emotional support for those in need after a disaster.  Proceeds from her Canadian concerts will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross. Carrie's two previous headline tours, 2008's "Carnival Ride Tour" and 2010's "Play On Tour," performed for a combined total of nearly 250 shows with 2.2 million fans in attendance, and she wrapped both years as the top-ranked female country touring artist. Since releasing Some Hearts in 2005, Underwood has sold more than 14 million albums with Some Hearts, 2007's Carnival Ride, and 2009's Play On.  She's amassed 14 No. 1 singles, six of which she co-wrote, and became the first country artist in history and the only American Idol winner ever to achieve 10 No. 1 singles from their first two albums.  Underwood currently leads the nominations for the upcoming CMT Music Awards with five. She is a five-time Grammy winner, a two-time Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year, a three-time Country Music Association and ACM Female Vocalist winner, and a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry. Hunter Hayes, the multi-talented writer, musician, producer, and performer, is the only country artist to play every instrument, write/co-write every song, and co-produce his critically acclaimed self-titled debut album.  As the 2012 ACM New Artist of the Year nominee, Hunter has been touring and performing live for decades, most recently selling out venues across the US and Canada on his MOST WANTED headline tour. The Louisiana native has shared the stage with Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Trace Adkins, Brad Paisley, and Hank Williams, Jr. to name a few. His current Top 40 hit "Wanted" is quickly climbing the radio charts and holds the unprecedented #1 slot for three weeks in a row on GAC's Top 20 Countdown.  For more information on Hunter Hayes, please visit www.HunterHayes.com. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194009 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195030 Sleigh Bells at The Intersection July 10th. *All Ages* Tickets on sale Friday at 10am.Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of show http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195030 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195875 With special guest Greg BatesTicket price: $20-$39.50Doors at noon, show at 8 p.m. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195875 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193296 Celebrate the madness of our award winning IPA and our Fifteen year anniversary!June 16thStreet Party: 12pm to 10pm(Located on College Ave. between 8th and 9th Street)Pure Michigan Cookout: 12pm to 4pmDetails to come!LIVE MUSIC:Delilah DeWylde & The Lost Boys-4pmDelilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys got its start in 2005. Just like rockabilly originators Johnny Cash, Bill Haley and Carl Perkins, this Michigan trio cut its teeth on steel-guitar driven country in the style popularized by Hank Williams, Ernest Tubb and Webb Pierce. But the draw of the big beat was irresistible, and over time the band's approach has become sharper and tighter. Not self-consciously retro, Delilah and the Lost Boys remain committed to hand-crafted American music that stands at the crossroads of creativity and craftsmanship, liberally drawing from honky tonk country, rockabilly and surf music. Delilah and the Lost Boys come out on stage looking and sounding like a step back in time. Dressed to the nines in the tradition of pre-color television, the band thrills audiences across the Midwest with its spirited performances.Steppin' In It-6pmRare indeed when a collection of songs creates an entire world. Yet that's exactly what transpires with Steppin' In It's "Simple Tunes for Troubled Times." Sonically painting with a pleasant array of old time country swing and blues, this Lansing, Michigan, quartet brilliantly updates a resurging American musical genre. Led by composer/guitarist Joshua Davis, traditional roots music is celebrated here by plaintive vocals and sweet harmonies, plus musicianship that is positively staggering. The number of instruments manned by Davis, upright bassist Dominic John Suchyta, steel guitarist Joe Wilson and the harmonica-playing Andy Wilson includes trombone, trumpet, Cajun accordion, dobro, slide guitar, Cajun fiddle, clawhammer banjo.HEADLINER:The Dynamites feat. Charles Walker-8pmSoul music is here to stay, and it's still evolving. The Dynamites Featuring CharlesWalker are living proof. Lead singer Charles Walker doesn't imitate, emulate or try toresuscitate a bygone nostalgic era. He is soul, the real deal, still carrying the flamingtorch of funk and soul lit back in the late 60's at the Apollo Theater where he opened upfor icons like James Brown and Wilson Pickett.Just as Ry Cooder thrust the nearly-forgotten Cuban heroes of son and bolero intointernational fame on the album Buena Vista Social Club , so have The Dynamitesproven that national treasures of soul and funk like Charles Walker still walk amongst us.What's more, the fresh songwriting approach of Bill Elder , a.k.a. Leo Black , continuesto push the deep funk envelope, propelling Walker to sound equally at home singing ascorching hot, up-tempo rocker as he does on a heart wrenching 60's-style soul ballad.The Dynamites aren't alone. The burgeoning wave of the deep funk and soul movementis turning heads. A 2008 article in USA Today included The Dynamites in the short listof "acts that are wowing live audiences coast to coast with fresh songs and slammingperformances." The article also got it right in asserting the relevancy and freshness ofthe deep funk movement: "These critically lauded acts aren't cover bands, payinghomage to old heroes. They're creating their own legacies in a genre that the industryseemingly shelved long ago."Laith Al-Saadi-11pmLaith Al-Saadi has been a staple of the Detroit music scene for most of his adult life. Born and raised in Ann Arbor, MI, this talented 30 year old began singing at age 4 and began playing guitar at 13. At 15 years old Al- Saadi formed his first blues band, "Blue Vinyl". By the time he was 18 years old they had opened for Blues greats like Buddy Guy, Luther Allison, Son Seals, and Taj Mahal and toured the Netherlands. After graduating from High School, Al-Saadi attended the University of Michigan where he recieved a degree in Jazz Guitar and Bass. In 2006, Al-Saadi was crowned "King of the Blues" for the Northern Region of the United States by Guitar Center. This makes him one of the top 4 Blues guitarists in the Country.Exciting entertainment provided throughout the day by The Daredevil Circus!The Daredevil Circus is proud to be bringing circus life and education to the city of Grand Rapids!! Through circus, they "hope to inspire and promote diversity, fitness, and for families to share in something real!"Beer, Spirits Cheese SmackdownBeer Captain Joel Armato vs. Spirits Captain Rich BlairCocktail DemonstrationJoin us as we celebrate IPA's from a World Gone MAD! http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193296 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194387 For one night only, Mitch will share his experiences operating an orphanage in Port-au-Prince, Haiti after the devastating earthquake of 2010.In an intimate setting, Mitch will tell stories, take questions and share never-before-seen footage. The evening will also feature a special photographic presentation on Haiti by Brian Kelly.June 20, 2012 at 7 p.m.Dessert following the programThis is a fundraising event and donations will be encouraged.Tickets are $50 per person and all proceeds go to help the Have Faith Haiti Mission in Port-au-Prince. To purchase tickets, call The Wealthy Theatre Box Office, 616-459-4788 ext 131 or visit wealthytheatre.org. Space is limited for this unique event! http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194387 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194920 Jazz pioneer Dr. John is joined by gospel's legendary The Blind Boys of Alabama for a majestic show that explores the connections between blues, jazz and gospel. Under Dr. John's musical direction, "Spirituals to Funk" represents the first-ever touring partnership between the two icons of American music.Based on the legendary Carnegie Hall 'Spirituals to Swing' concerts produced by John Hammond in the 1930s, the Rock & Roll Hall of famer and 5-time Grammy Award winners take the DeVos Performance Hall stage on Tuesday, October 23rd. Tickets are $39.50 and $49.50 and go on sale Friday, May 11 at noon. Tickets can be purchased at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 800-745-3000. Dr. John and the Blind Boys will perform together as they build on a legacy that started with Dr. John's appearance on the Blind Boys' Grammy® Award-winning CD "Down in New Orleans ," and continues with the Blind Boys' appearance on Dr. John's CD celebrating Louis Armstrong's 100th birthday.For over four decades, Mac Rebennack adopted the persona of Dr. John to establish his unique blend of voodoo mysticism, funk, rhythm & blues, psychedelic rock and homegrown Creole roots. Several of his many career highlights include the masterful album Sun, Moon and Herbs in 1971 which included cameos from Eric Clapton and Mick Jagger and 1973's In The Right Place, which contained the chart hits "Right Place Wrong Time" and "Such A Night." Dr. John garnered Grammy award wins in 1989, 1992, 1996 and 2000.  The Blind Boys of Alabama have attained the highest levels of achievement in a career that spans over 70 years. Longevity and major awards aside, The Blind Boys have earned praise for their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material by acclaimed songwriters such as Curtis Mayfield, Ben Harper, Eric Clapton, Prince and Tom Waits. Their performances have been experienced by millions on The Tonight Show, Late Night with David Letterman, the Grammy® Awards telecast, 60 Minutes, and on their own holiday PBS Special. The Blind Boys' live shows are roof- raising musical events that appeal to audiences of all cultures, as evidenced by an international itinerary that has taken them to virtually every continent.    http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=194920 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189007 GR's largest annual outdoor event celebrates its 43rd year of honoring the arts in West Michigan. Dozens of food and artist booths stretch from Calder Plaza to Rosa Parks Circle and local musicians and dancers perform on six indoor and outdoor stages. The completely free community festival is supported by the efforts of more than 20,000 volunteers.June 1, 2 & 3, 2012 Festival Map (PDF)  List of Food Booths: Kinney Grange #754 (American)Popcorn, Caramel Corn, Cheddar Gold PopcornBethesda Baptist Church19 flavors shaved iceRenaissance Church of God in ChristWatermelon slicesHoly Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (Greek)Souvlaki (marinated pork sandwich), Baklava (filo dough dessert), Loukoumades (Greek honey donut holes)United Church of Wayland (Australian)Pavlova (meringue shell, whipped topping, strawberries, blueberries, kiwi), Green spiders (mint float)Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ (American)Foot Long Hot Dogs with Chili, Cheese, and Onion, Giant Dill Pickle, Assorted Chips, Lemon Chills, Rocket PopsBosnian Cultural Center (Bosnian)Burek (meat pie), Cheese Pie, Bosnian Kebab (lamb & beef, cucumber sauce, lettuce, tomato), Shish Kebab (chicken breast, green pepper, mushroom, onion), Crepes (Nutella or jelly topping) covered in powdered sugarLINC Revitalization Communities, IncRibs, Rib Tips, CatfishSt. George's Antiochian Orthodox Church (Lebanese)Kafta, Shawarma SandwichGreat Wisdom Meditation Center (Vegetarian)Stir Fried Noodles with Vegetables, Vegetarian Spring RollsImmaculate Heart of MaryPepperoni pizza puffsGeorgetown United Methodist Church (Dutch)Waffle Cone and a Variety of 6 Ice Cream FlavorsIslamic Cultural Center (ICC) Behar (Bosnian)Cevap (meat sausage), Burek (meat, cheese, or spinach pie), BaklavaChinese Association of Western Michigan (Oriental)Chicken (Nuggets), Fried Rice, Crab Cheese, Egg RollCommunity of ChristWalking TacoLegends Performing Arts Association (American)Battered/deepfried Corndogs, pickles, Oreos, Frozen lemonadeItalian American Club of West Michigan (Italian)Italian Sausage Sandwich, Italian IcesIslamic Mosque & Religious Institute (Middle Eastern/Mediterranean)Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Falafel Sandwich, Grilled Pizza (cheese only and cheese w/ halal pepperoni)Journey of Faith – West Michigan (Breakfast/Dessert)Homemade Grilled Cinnamon Rolls (with cream cheese icing), Cinnamon Ice Cream (with honey, pecans, whipped cream), Brewed Tea (hot and cold), Coffee (regular, decaf, and hazelnut w/ or w/o cinnamon ice cream on top),Wallin Congregational Church (American)Ground Beef BBQ, Pickle on a Stick, Dove Bars, Novelty Ice Cream on a StickThis Is Fellowship Ministries (Barbeque)Ribs, Rib tips, Turkey legs, Sandwiches (pulled pork and beef), Baked beans, Potato salad, ChipsOur Lady of LaVang (Vietnamese)Boneless Chicken on Skewer, Chicken Egg RollKenowa Hills Band Boosters (American Seafood)Shrimp on a Skewer, Garlic Bread, Fresh Squeezed LemonadeSteepletown Neighborhood Services (Polish)Kielbasa on a bun, Pierogis, Kapusta Dog (w/ Sauerkraut)Northview Athletic Boosters (American/Dessert)Elephant Ears with Cinnamon, Apple, or Cherry ToppingTeam Hendy Youth Wrestling Club - (American)Hot Pretzels, Dipping SaucesBosnian American Association of Women BeharPita w/beef and potato, Bosnian sandwich specialty (w/mushrooms, onions, tomato, sour cream), Pita cake with apples and dessert pita cakes w/milk and eggsInternational Society for Krishna Consciousness (East Indian)Blueberry and Strawberry Halava (semolina, butter, blueberries or strawberries, vanilla), Nimbupani (ice water, fresh lemon, ginger, rosewater)Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School BoostersCorndogs, Fries with Chili/Cheese/SaltsBuddhist Association of Michigan/ Tam Quang Temple (Vegetarian)Vegetarian Fried Rice, Vegetarian Egg Rolls, Cream Cheese Wontons     http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189007 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195888  Erhardt Construction is celebrating its 50th Anniversary by recognizing and supporting the work of people and organizations that are serving others in our community.Together with our project partners, Erhardt is giving away a construction project and prizes totaling $50,000 to area non-profit organizations through our Building Our Community contest.Instead of celebrating our own achievements, Erhardt Construction invites you to join us in honoring the organizations doing truly great work in our community. Why We Are Doing ItEverything we do is to serve our clients, our community, and our employees. We do it by turning visions into reality through the built environment.Our hope is to reach non-profit organizations that have a vision for a project or facility improvement that will help them accomplish their mission, but they may not have access to funding. We want to make that project a reality through our Building Our Community contest. How it WorksNon-profit organizations can register to be eligible to win a donated construction or renovation project worth up to $45,000.For all participating non-profits, we need to know how the construction project will enhance the organization's mission and help to better serve the needs in the community.Once registration closes, the public will be able to vote for their favorite and most deserving non-profit organization and share the project and contest with their friends through social media and other outlets. PrizesWinning non-profit organizations of the Building Our Community contest will receive: Grand Prize: $45,000 toward a construction or renovation projectFirst Runner Up: $2,000 cash donationSecond Runner Up: $1,500 cash donationThird Runner Up: $1,000 cash donationFourth Runner Up: $1,000 cash donationThe Grand Prize will be valued at a maximum of $45,000, but shall not exceed the value of the winning project as submitted on the application and determined by Erhardt. Key DatesMay 16: Contest Registration OpensThe contest opens for non-profit organizations to submit their construction project through the registration page of the website. The public may also register to vote at this time. June 11: Non-profit Registration ClosesNon-profit organizations have until 11:59 p.m. EST to submit their registration form through the contest website. The public may continue to register to vote in the contest until the contest ends. June 18: Round I Voting BeginsBeginning at 12:00 a.m. EST, everyone registered to vote in the contest will receive one vote per day to use on the non-profit of their choice. Vote tallies will be visible in real time until the final week of voting. July 9-13: Round I Voting Results are Blind to the PublicTo keep the Round I winners a secret, the vote totals from the final week of voting will not be displayed to the public. July 16: Round I Winners AnnouncedThe top 5 organizations from Round I will be announced to the public. July 23: Round II Voting BeginsBeginning at 12:00 a.m. EST, the public will be able to vote for the Round II finalist organizations competing for the grand prize donated construction project. August 13-17: Round II Voting Results are Blind to the PublicJust like in Round I, the final week of voting in Round II will be blind to the public. This ensures that the final results will be a surprise. August 23: Contest Winners AnnouncedThe grand prize winner and the four runners up will be announced to the public. Click here to register http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195888 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189013 This event has quickly become one of the highlights of summer in Grand Rapids. This is your chance to party in the middle of the street!Come celebrate the best in West Michigan's music, food, and beer.This year's Street Party is shaping up to be the best one yet. We think it's our coolest line-up of bands and most diverse and delicious assortment of food yet. The Street Party is our chance to take a night to celebrate what we are all about. It reminds us why developing our local economy is so important. It's all about our people, our music, and our favorite food and drinks. Come party with us, and enjoy the rewards of all the hard work West Michigan does to keep its soul strong!The party starts at 4pm on June 9th. As always, getting in is FREE! But make sure to bring your purchasing power to get your hands on the best beverages and festival food West Michigan has to offer.Here's who you'll be listening to:• Fauxgrass Quartet• Larry McCray• Afro Zuma• Grupo Aye• The Hard Lessons• La Famiglia (with surprise special guests!)• Surprise Special Guest DJHere's who will be feeding you and quenching your thirst:• Founders Brewing• St. Julian• GRPD• What the Truck• The Silver Spork• San Chez• HopCat• Little Pearl Cupcake• Marge's Donut Den• Sandmann's• Chez Olga• Egg Roll Queens  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189013 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193802 SiTE:LAB has announced that its next project will take place at Blandford Nature Center on June 15 and 16, 2012. The event will feature site-specific projects created by local artists and art students. These pieces will be installed throughout Blandford's 143 acres of forest, meadows and wetlands. Site:Lab is a non-profit that organizes temporary art exhibitions, each in a different location. By moving from venue to venue, each project takes on a unique identity, dictated by the structure and history of its site. While these events have typically taken place in vacant buildings, including the Harris building, the former Junior Achievement building and the old Grand Rapids Public Museum, the Blandford project will be Site:Lab's second venture into this outdoor venue. "We are extremely excited by the unique opportunity presented by Blandford," commented Paul Amenta, Site:Lab's founder and curator. "Not only will artists be able to respond to the wide variety of terrain found at Blandord, but they will also be able to incorporate natural materials found there."Annoesjka Steinman, executive director of Blandford, shares Amenta's excitement about the opportunities presented by this event. "We are excited to see how artists respond to the resources available at Blandford. We think that it will help the public see Blandford in an entirely new way." The outdoor setting will not only present artists with unique opportunities, it will also allow Site:Lab to engage its audience in new ways. One portion of the exhibition will be viewed from a horse drawn wagon. Live music and meals for purchase will also be available. And the Saturday hours will allow for more family-focused activities.Hours: Friday, June 15, 5pm- 11pmSaturday, June 16, 12pm-5pm  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=193802 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99137  Every Wednesday at 7PM, a Traditional Irish Music Session is held at The Fenian's Irish Pub. Irish musicians and general public welcome to an authentic Irish experience. No cover charge. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99137 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189111 The Orbit Room welcomes Slash featuring Miles Kennedy and the Conspirators. This show is Thursday May 17th. Ages 16+ welcome. Tickets go onsale Friday at 10am. $32.50 in advance. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189111 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=186600 BARRY MANILOWJune 14thVan Andel ArenaTickets go on-sale 10 AM This Saturday (Jan 28) at livenation.com, the venue box office and ticketmaster.Tickets start as low as $29.99, $49.99, 69.99, 89.99 and a limited amount at 109.99! http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=186600 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189014 The quirky Eastown event helps kick off summer with a wide variety of hand-made arts and crafts created by local artists, live music and a chance to sample the best of the neighborhood restaurants. Free admission; runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189014 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99128  Every Wednesday at 7PM, a Traditional Irish Music Session is held at The Fenian's Irish Pub. Irish musicians and general public welcome to an authentic Irish experience. No cover charge. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99128 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99132  Every Wednesday at 7PM, a Traditional Irish Music Session is held at The Fenian's Irish Pub. Irish musicians and general public welcome to an authentic Irish experience. No cover charge. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99132 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195365 The Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation, and the Downtown Alliance announce a Friday night filled with fun, free activities at Rosa Parks Circle and GRAM this July and August in downtown Grand Rapids. The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) brings back the popular outdoor summer series, GRAM on the Green, for a fourth season beginning July 6, 2012. Collaborations continue with Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation, as well as the Downtown Alliance. GRAM on the Green features special activities with games and sketching on Wege Plaza, live music and a cash bar on the Allen and Helen Hunting Terrace, and art Conversations. Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation and the Downtown Alliance will offer a Werq dance fitness class (similar to Zumba) and Ballroom Dancing in Rosa Parks Circle. All activities outdoors are free of charge. Admission to galleries and special events inside the Museum is offered at the reduced Friday Night rate of $5.00 after 5pm. Members and children 5 and under are always free. GRAM on the Green will begin at 5:00pm every Friday, July 6 through August 17. From 5:00 to 9:00 pm, sketching and games, including giant versions of Jenga and chess, will be available on the Wege Plaza. Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation and theDowntown Alliance offer free classes and activities before and after the live music. The Werq dance fitness class is offered from 5:30 to 6:15 pm, and ballroom dancing with available instructor will be from 8:30 to 10:00 pm, both in Rosa Parks Circle. Guests can enjoy live music on the Museum Terrace from 6:15 to 8:30pm, with a short break at 7:00pm. An eclectic variety of bands are offered from week to week. During a break in the music at 7:00pm, guests can enjoy Friday Night Conversations with a theme that complements the summer exhibition at GRAM, Cities in Transition. The Conversation location varies. Cash bar is open until 8:30 pm, and galleries are open until 9:00 pm. GRAM ON THE GREENJuly 6 - August 17, 2012Outdoor activities are free of charge. See schedule below. Grand Rapids Art Museum galleries are open until 9:00pm every Friday night. Admission to galleries is only $5.00 after 5:00pm. Admission is free for members and children 5 and under. FREE OUTDOOR SKETCHING AND GAMES ON WEGE PLAZA5:00 - 9:00pmEasels and sketching materials will be available on the Peter M. Wege Plaza, situated between the Museum entrance and Maya Lin Ecliptic at Rosa Parks Circle. Giant Jenga and chess sets will also be available, along with other normal-sized board games. FREE LIVE MUSIC FROM THE MUSEUM TERRACE6:15 to 8:30 PM, with a short break at 7pmJuly 06 An Dro (celtic/world beat)July 13 Fauxgrass Quartet (progressive bluegrass)July 20 Randy Marsh (organ trio, jazz)July 27  Ritsu Katsumata (postmodern gypsy)Aug 03  Creolization (roots-pop with a zydeco twist)Aug 10  Dan Richardson – Chosen (gospel)Aug 17 Fainting Generals (alternative pop-rock) PARKS & RECREATION/DOWNTOWN ALLIANCE FREE ACTIVITIES IN ROSA PARKS CIRCLE5:30 TO 6:15 PM & 8:30 TO 10:00 PMGrand Rapids Parks and Recreation and the Downtown Alliance host Werq dance fitness class and ballroom dancing. 5:30 - 6:15pmWerq dance fitness class in Rosa Parks Circle 8:30 - 10pmBallroom dancing in Rosa Parks Circle FRIDAY NIGHT CONVERSATIONS7:00pm (during a break in the music) Summer Conversation theme: Urban Explorations: Images, Words, Music, and MovementThe location of each Conversation varies. Schedule below: July 6 Drop-in Discussion: Cycling in GRJuly 13 Urban Photo Walk with Dianne Carroll BurdickJuly 20 Downtown Dance PerformanceJuly 27 Drop-in Discussion: DanceAug 3 Drop-in Discussion: FilmAug10 Urban Photo Walk with Terry JohnstonAug17 Drop-in Discussion: Writing http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195365 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=161638 RAMONA QUIMBYJuly 27 - Aug 5 • Children's PlayTickets: $8 - $14Ramona reminds us how the ordinary things in life are really extraordinary!The exasperating but lovable third-grader, sometimes known as Ramona the pest, meets the challenges of life head on. Laugh and cheer as this classic heroine jumps from the pages of Beverly Cleary's books to the Civic stage.Dramatized by Len Jenkin. Based on the books by Beverly Cleary. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=161638 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136716 Doors open at 9:00pmEntertainment start at 9:00pm$2 Cover  -  21+ http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=136716 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99141  Every Wednesday at 7PM, a Traditional Irish Music Session is held at The Fenian's Irish Pub. Irish musicians and general public welcome to an authentic Irish experience. No cover charge. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=99141 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195856 ***CALLING ALL FASHION DESIGNERS***Spotlight616 and ArtPrize have joined forces to create a competition that is custom designed just for you!ArtPrize Fashion Force Challenge is a DESIGNER driven competition that puts a spotlight on the most promising designers in the burgeoning Grand Rapids fashion community.ArtPrize is looking for one talented designer to be the official 2012 Fashion Force Ambassador. This person is a fashion designer by day and an ArtPrize superhero by night! The winner of the competition will go on to Style Battle in September to represent ArtPrize as an official Fashion Force showcase team member. The chosen designer will be given a $500 stipend to create garments for Style Battle and they will also have the opportunity for a limited edition merchandise line/collection to be featured in the ArtPrize Retail Store.12 designers will be selected to compete in ArtPrize Fashion Force Challenge. Each chosen designer will be given a $100 ArtPrize Store merchandise credit. Designers will have one month to create one original design which incorporates/utilizes ArtPrize merchandise in a unique way. Designers will be allowed to rework the chosen merchandise materials in any way that enhances the aesthetic concept of the original design and completes the designer's vision. (e.g. merchandise may be deconstructed or altered to integrate into the newly designed garment).All design competitors will debut their original creations on the runway in front of a live audience and a panel of ArtPrize appointed judges on July 25, 2012 at The Establishment.In addition, designers will be required to complete one last assignment on the night of the challenge. Design competitors will be given one additional key piece of ArtPrize merchandise from the new 2012 collection. The merchandise choice will be at the discretion of the Jury and it will not be revealed until just before the start of the competition. All competitors will receive the same merchandise. Design competitors will have 15 minutes to morph this piece into a new creation in front of the live audience.Want more details? Interested designers can find additional information and an application on the Spotlight616 website: http://spotlight616.com/apffc http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=195856 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=139012 Traditional Irish music gathering (session). Alternates weekly between McFadden's Pub and The Tavern on The Square. Any musicians who play Irish music are welcome to bring an instrument and everyone else is invited to listen. Drink specials at both venues. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=139012 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189008 GR's largest annual outdoor event celebrates its 43rd year of honoring the arts in West Michigan. Dozens of food and artist booths stretch from Calder Plaza to Rosa Parks Circle and local musicians and dancers perform on six indoor and outdoor stages. The completely free community festival is supported by the efforts of more than 20,000 volunteers.June 1, 2 & 3, 2012 Festival Map (PDF)  List of Food Booths: Kinney Grange #754 (American)Popcorn, Caramel Corn, Cheddar Gold PopcornBethesda Baptist Church19 flavors shaved iceRenaissance Church of God in ChristWatermelon slicesHoly Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (Greek)Souvlaki (marinated pork sandwich), Baklava (filo dough dessert), Loukoumades (Greek honey donut holes)United Church of Wayland (Australian)Pavlova (meringue shell, whipped topping, strawberries, blueberries, kiwi), Green spiders (mint float)Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ (American)Foot Long Hot Dogs with Chili, Cheese, and Onion, Giant Dill Pickle, Assorted Chips, Lemon Chills, Rocket PopsBosnian Cultural Center (Bosnian)Burek (meat pie), Cheese Pie, Bosnian Kebab (lamb & beef, cucumber sauce, lettuce, tomato), Shish Kebab (chicken breast, green pepper, mushroom, onion), Crepes (Nutella or jelly topping) covered in powdered sugarLINC Revitalization Communities, IncRibs, Rib Tips, CatfishSt. George's Antiochian Orthodox Church (Lebanese)Kafta, Shawarma SandwichGreat Wisdom Meditation Center (Vegetarian)Stir Fried Noodles with Vegetables, Vegetarian Spring RollsImmaculate Heart of MaryPepperoni pizza puffsGeorgetown United Methodist Church (Dutch)Waffle Cone and a Variety of 6 Ice Cream FlavorsIslamic Cultural Center (ICC) Behar (Bosnian)Cevap (meat sausage), Burek (meat, cheese, or spinach pie), BaklavaChinese Association of Western Michigan (Oriental)Chicken (Nuggets), Fried Rice, Crab Cheese, Egg RollCommunity of ChristWalking TacoLegends Performing Arts Association (American)Battered/deepfried Corndogs, pickles, Oreos, Frozen lemonadeItalian American Club of West Michigan (Italian)Italian Sausage Sandwich, Italian IcesIslamic Mosque & Religious Institute (Middle Eastern/Mediterranean)Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Falafel Sandwich, Grilled Pizza (cheese only and cheese w/ halal pepperoni)Journey of Faith – West Michigan (Breakfast/Dessert)Homemade Grilled Cinnamon Rolls (with cream cheese icing), Cinnamon Ice Cream (with honey, pecans, whipped cream), Brewed Tea (hot and cold), Coffee (regular, decaf, and hazelnut w/ or w/o cinnamon ice cream on top),Wallin Congregational Church (American)Ground Beef BBQ, Pickle on a Stick, Dove Bars, Novelty Ice Cream on a StickThis Is Fellowship Ministries (Barbeque)Ribs, Rib tips, Turkey legs, Sandwiches (pulled pork and beef), Baked beans, Potato salad, ChipsOur Lady of LaVang (Vietnamese)Boneless Chicken on Skewer, Chicken Egg RollKenowa Hills Band Boosters (American Seafood)Shrimp on a Skewer, Garlic Bread, Fresh Squeezed LemonadeSteepletown Neighborhood Services (Polish)Kielbasa on a bun, Pierogis, Kapusta Dog (w/ Sauerkraut)Northview Athletic Boosters (American/Dessert)Elephant Ears with Cinnamon, Apple, or Cherry ToppingTeam Hendy Youth Wrestling Club - (American)Hot Pretzels, Dipping SaucesBosnian American Association of Women BeharPita w/beef and potato, Bosnian sandwich specialty (w/mushrooms, onions, tomato, sour cream), Pita cake with apples and dessert pita cakes w/milk and eggsInternational Society for Krishna Consciousness (East Indian)Blueberry and Strawberry Halava (semolina, butter, blueberries or strawberries, vanilla), Nimbupani (ice water, fresh lemon, ginger, rosewater)Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School BoostersCorndogs, Fries with Chili/Cheese/SaltsBuddhist Association of Michigan/ Tam Quang Temple (Vegetarian)Vegetarian Fried Rice, Vegetarian Egg Rolls, Cream Cheese Wontons     http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189008 D\, d M Y