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=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=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=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=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=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=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 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=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=189608 The BISSELL Pet Foundation is hosting the BEST DOG-GONE Party in Town, benefiting our local animal welfare organizations here in West Michigan! So grab your friends and bring your pooch to enjoy tasty "yappetizers", music, silent auction, and mingling with other animal lovers and their four-legged friends! http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189608 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=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=189064 We are proud to announce the initial lineup for Electric Forest 2012. To name a few, this years lineup features The String Cheese Incident (3 performances), Bassnectar, STS9 (2 performances), Thievery Corporation, Girl Talk, Santigold, Steve Aoki, Ghostland Observatory, Richie Hawtin, Major Lazer, Big Gigantic, The Travelin' McCourys featuring Keller Williams and many more. Electric Forest also introduces Curated Events with ESL Music, Dim Mak, Check Yo Ponytail and Paxahau. Tickets are on sale now. To view the lineup click HERE!June 28-July 1, 2012 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189064 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189065 We are proud to announce the initial lineup for Electric Forest 2012. To name a few, this years lineup features The String Cheese Incident (3 performances), Bassnectar, STS9 (2 performances), Thievery Corporation, Girl Talk, Santigold, Steve Aoki, Ghostland Observatory, Richie Hawtin, Major Lazer, Big Gigantic, The Travelin' McCourys featuring Keller Williams and many more. Electric Forest also introduces Curated Events with ESL Music, Dim Mak, Check Yo Ponytail and Paxahau. Tickets are on sale now. To view the lineup click HERE!June 28-July 1, 2012 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189065 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189066 We are proud to announce the initial lineup for Electric Forest 2012. To name a few, this years lineup features The String Cheese Incident (3 performances), Bassnectar, STS9 (2 performances), Thievery Corporation, Girl Talk, Santigold, Steve Aoki, Ghostland Observatory, Richie Hawtin, Major Lazer, Big Gigantic, The Travelin' McCourys featuring Keller Williams and many more. Electric Forest also introduces Curated Events with ESL Music, Dim Mak, Check Yo Ponytail and Paxahau. Tickets are on sale now. To view the lineup click HERE!June 28-July 1, 2012 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189066 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189067 We are proud to announce the initial lineup for Electric Forest 2012. To name a few, this years lineup features The String Cheese Incident (3 performances), Bassnectar, STS9 (2 performances), Thievery Corporation, Girl Talk, Santigold, Steve Aoki, Ghostland Observatory, Richie Hawtin, Major Lazer, Big Gigantic, The Travelin' McCourys featuring Keller Williams and many more. Electric Forest also introduces Curated Events with ESL Music, Dim Mak, Check Yo Ponytail and Paxahau. Tickets are on sale now. To view the lineup click HERE!June 28-July 1, 2012 http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189067 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189044 Every September local retail stores in Grand Rapids come together under one common cause, supporting local businesses. FNO GR is a one night shopping event, so go shopping on the night of September 9th to show your support of local stores and the brands they carry.Stores city wide will be open late for you to enjoy yourself in their shops and show what you love about them. Trolleys will be out to help you navigate all the shopping districts Grands Rapids has to offer. http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189044 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190047 Battle at the BurgWest Michigan's Premier Mountain Bike Race and Outdoor Expo September 7 and 8, 2012Cannonsburg Ski Area, Belmont, MIwww.battleattheburg.comIt is our goal to create a first class event that is well run and competitive for the expert racer as well as one that is enjoyable and challenging for the enthusiast. Were are proud to put on an event that will be a great time all around!Battle at the Burg is a Mountain Bike festival featuring:A great xc mountain bike raceKids raceFood, drinks and prizesGreat Battle at the Burg logo merch for saleAwards CeremonyOutdoor ExpoFundraising dinner and auctionAnd much more!Hosted by Cannonsburg Ski area on their fun and challenging mountain bike trails, this is an event the is sure to be a great success.For more information, contact us at info@battleattheburg.com or visit us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Battleattheburg  http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=190047 D\, d M Y http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189047 Oktoberfest West Michigan is a German Heritage Festival of food, beverage and music celebrating the unique culture of Bavarian Germany. Locally produced German foods and Imported German Beers pair with the best German bands available. Styled after Old World festivals, this event takes place at John Ball Park in Grand Rapids on September 28 & 29, 2012. Free Admission and free parking, with children's activities, and food and music for all ages. Come eat, play and dance! Oktoberfest will feature the BOUNCER'S AND MORE children's play area. Five fantastic bounce play features are open from 5 - 10:00 PM Friday and Noon to 10:00PM Saturday. Reasonable wristband prices for all day fun! Kids love it! Squeeze Box brings the best in accordion band music from Ohio, played with a contemporary spin. Always a crowd favorite and sure to get your polka on! For more info and schedules, check out www.squeezebox.com For more information please go to www.oktoberfestwestmichigan.comor Like us on Facebook : Oktoberfest West Michigan http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189047 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=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=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=189470 The new 8.5 acre, $22 million dollar Japanese Garden addition designed by Hoichi Kurisu will open in 2015 at the Gardens. It will be located in the current 'Woods and Wetlands' area adjacent to the Children's Garden and Michigan's Farm Garden. The new space will include multiple works of sculpture, the first of which is an untitled polished granite work by Amish Kapoor, perhaps best known for 'Cloud Gate' (or 'The Bean') in downtown Chicago. A working Japanese tea house will also be built. The Japanese Garden has been part of Meijer Gardens' Master Plan for ten years and was Fred Meijer's final gift both to the Gardens, and his wife Lena.  Kurisu will move from Japan to Grand Rapids for two years while he oversees the project.*May 1, 2015 is an estimated date* http://events.grnow.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=189470 D\, d M Y