Cafe 24/7 presents a brand new, 2-pound burger

By: Brittney Schering

Cafe 24/7, inside of FireKeepers Casino, is revealing a new menu within the next couple of weeks. An All American Burger will be on the new menu, which has a precooked weight (with fries) of a full two pounds.

The enormous All American Burger includes fried macaroni and cheese medallions, smoked bacon, fried onions, American cheese, and chipotle mayo. The burger will be a must-see in all of its elaborate eccentricity. Whether or not you will be able to finish the 2-pounder might be quite a challenge, but it will be a delectable one.

FireKeepers Casino is located at 11177 Michigan Avenue in Battle Creek. For more information, please call (269) 660-5723 or check out FireKeepersCasino.com.

“Acting for the Camera: 101” begins Oct. 30

By: Brittney Schering

UnSAFE Film Office’s Anthony E. Griffin and Rebel Pictures’ Michael McCallum will teach “Acting for the Camera: 101” at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, starting Oct. 30.

The classes will be every Saturday for four consecutive weeks, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. To enroll into “Acting for the Camera: 101,” act fast because the limit is 15 students.

Griffin and McCallum have collaborated on more than a dozen short films and three features since 2005, including Fairview St. and Handlebar.

Fairview St. is the most celebrated Michigan-made independent feature film screening on the film festival circuit today. It has been selected at 20 film festivals and won eight major awards, including the John Allen Award for Best Feature Film at the Muskegon Film Festival in 2009.

Handlebar has screened at eight film festivals and won four awards since its premier this past February at Celebration Cinemas in Lansing, consisting of a full week of sold out shows.

Griffin and McCallum’s most recent collaboration, the short film, All of the Highs, None of the Lows, premiered on Oct. 3 as part of Project Twenty1, a 21-day film competition in Philadelphia. It took home the Best Acting award.

The four-week course costs less than $50 per session, totaling out to be $195. To sign up, call (616) 222-6653 or go to http://www.grct.org/education.html.

West Michigan Symphony salutes John Williams

By: Brittney Schering

The West Michigan Symphony will perform a spirited tribute to the music of John Williams conducted by music director Scott Speck for its first of three Pops Series concerts of the 2010-11 season on Friday, Oct. 29 and Saturday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m.

Laced with the heavy effervescence for which Williams' music is known, "Salute to John Williams: The Soundtrack of our Lives" will feature a medley of selections guaranteed to pack a punch as powerful and evocative as Williams' familiar film scores.

Star Wars fans will especially take particular delight in the concert, half of which will be devoted to music from all six episodes of the blockbuster intergalactic saga.

In addition to selections from Star Wars, other program highlights will include excerpts from classics such as, Jaws, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Schindler's List, E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Superman.

All WMS concerts take place in the historic Frauenthal Center for Performing Arts in downtown Muskegon. Season tickets are on sale now, with prices ranging from $80-280 for the Full series (eight concerts), $50-175 for the Masterworks series (five classical concerts), and $30-105 for the Pops series (three concerts).

For additional season ticket packages and details, please head over to www.westmichigansymphony.org or call (231) 726-3231.

Harry Potter advance tickets on sale now

By: Brittney Schering

In the past 10 days, more than 3,300 midnight showing tickets were sold for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One. The advance tickets are now available at all Celebration! Cinema locations. They can be purchased online or at a theatre box office.

Midnight shows in the IMAX theatre at Celebration! Grand Rapids North are already sold out, but tickets can still be bought for opening day and week showings.

The movie was originally slated for a 3-D release, but Warner Brothers opted not to do 3-D at the last minute. However, it will still be shown in both digital and IMAX formats.

Shows are selling out quickly, and more auditoriums are being added to the list as the theatres fill up. For the last Twilight movie, more than 18,000 tickets were sold for the midnight shows alone. Celebration! Cinema is hoping to break the record with Harry Potter.

In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One, Harry, Ron, and Hermione set out on their perilous mission to track down and destroy the secret to Voldemort’s immortality and destruction—the Horcruxes. Without the guidance of their professors or the protection of Professor Dumbledore, the three friends must now rely on one another more than ever. Meanwhile, Dark Forces appear in their midst, threatening to tear them apart.

All show times, ticket prices, and other needed information can be viewed online at http://celebrationcinema.com.

Red Hydrant Press hosts Day of the Dead Mini Print Exhibition

By: Brittney Schering

In a non-traditional celebration of the Mexican holiday, Day of the Dead, Red Hydrant Press hosts Dead End, an exhibit of small prints created by Michigan and national artists around the theme of oil from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 29 and from 4 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 30.

Jose Guadalupe Posada, the most widely recognized Day of the Dead artist, worked as an illustrator and printmaker in Mexico City at the turn of the 20th century. His prints popularized the holiday's symbolic Calaveras, or decorated skulls.

Posada's revolutionary ideals remain at the core of today's Day of the Dead artistic celebrations.
The challenge is to connect Dia de Los Muertos imagery to our culture's dependence to oil consumption, production, trade, and environmental impact.

To increase the challenge, artists are asked to express this in a print that is no larger than five-by-seven inches. Red Hydrant's own Alynn Guerra, along with artist and Grand Valley State University professor, Bret Colley, will curate the mini exhibit.

Guerra and Red Hydrant sculptor, Carlos Aceves, will also construct a traditional Day of the Dead altar where gifts of food, drink, and flowers honor loved ones who have passed away. From 4 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, children can decorate paper Calaveras. Saturday evening, Villalobos will perform live music.

The prints will remain on display through Nov. 21. For more information, head over to www.redhydrantpress.com

Public Library presents “Ghosts and Legends of Michigan’s West Coast” event

By: Brittney Schering

Grand Rapids Public Library invites everyone to come and listen to ghost story researcher and enthusiast, Amberrose Hammond, as she explores the ghosts and haunted places of West Michigan. “Ghosts and Legends of Michigan’s West Coast” will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Main Library.

West Michigan is home to some of the state’s most picturesque places and most chilling tales. Hammond exposes the mysterious and spirit-ridden world of many beloved destinations in Michigan as she skillfully weaves narratives of a world unseen by most.

From the lonely, hard-working spirit of the old Grand Theatre and the roaming band of melon-headed children prowling the Saugatuck State Park to the ghostly blue lights of the Lake Forest Cemetery staircase waiting to reveal one’s place in the afterlife, these tales are sure to give pause to anyone daring enough to experience these hauntingly beautiful spots.

Hammond, along with Tom Maat of Michigan’s Otherside, will discuss their favorite haunts, legends, and investigations into the paranormal they have conducted around Michigan. After their presentation, participants will be asked to share their own personal paranormal experiences.

Hammond has been actively researching ghost stories, folklore, and legends in Michigan since 2000. She earned a B.A. in English from Grand Valley State University in 2005. Her pursuits into paranormal studies led her to design and develop Michigan’s Otherside, a website featuring the strange and mysterious sides of the state.

“Ghosts and Legends of Michigan’s West Coast” will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 27 in the Ryerson Auditorium. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call (616) 988-5400 or visit our website at www.grpl.org.

Grand Rapids Public Library honors Dia de los Muertos

By: Brittney Schering

Grand Rapids Public Library will explore the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Oct. 28-30. Local residents have built more than 20 alters honoring the dead, which will be displayed.

Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday that honors family and friends who have passed on. Loved ones come together to build alters that celebrate the life and memory of the dead. The day is a time of celebration and joy, filled with talk and memories of those who have died.

On Thursday, Oct. 28 at 6 p.m., Magical Rain Theatreworks will present “Day of the Dead Comes Alive.” Participants will learn about Dia de los Muertos as it is celebrated in both Mexico and north of the border and the ancient tradition of honoring on each other in both life and death.

The interactive presentation mixes theatre, myths, and stories with guided discussions and creative arts activities. On Saturday, youngsters are invited to decorate sugar skulls. An additional take-home craft activity will be provided for children, too.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, please call (616) 988-5400 or visit www.grpl.org.

WMU Theatre brings one hysterical night

By: Brittney Schering

She Stoops to Conquer kicks off the University Theatre's 'Simply Classic' series with flourish, flounce, and one of the funniest evenings of theatre you have seen in awhile.

Oliver Goldsmith's hysterical parlor-room comedy runs Oct. 28 - Nov. 7 in the Williams Theater at the Gilmore Theatre Complex. Performances will be at 8 p.m. on Oct. 28-30 and Nov. 4-6, and at 2 p.m. on Nov. 7.

She Stoops to Conquer is a farcical romp that brings mistaken identity, affairs, jewels, and true love to the stage in convoluted proportions. Engaging audiences with their charming wit and ridiculous blunders, the characters portray one fateful night they will never forget.

Faculty member James Daniel directs the cast, which includes WMU students Ben Andre, Sara Bower, Eric Braman, Patrick Connaghan, Joe Dely, Jacob Hatfield, Shannon Hill, Chase Lepla, Leia McWhorter-Pusateri, Chelsea Morgan, Kenzie Ross, Mitch Voss, and Jenna Wyatt, along with stage manager, Cole Butcher.

Tickets can be purchased online, by calling (269) 387-6222 or by visiting the Box Office between 12-5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Admission is $20 for the general public, $15 for seniors and WMU faculty/staff, and $5 for students. For more information, including group discount prices, please go to www.wmutheatre.com.

88.1 WYCE presents free Hat Trick concert with Anne McCue and LeRoy Bell

By: Brittney Schering

The Hat Trick series features nationally touring artists performing to raise funds for area non-profits in free Monday night shows. Guest performers will include Anne McCue and LeRoy Bell.

Anne McCue is inspired by the golden era of folk pop music, which took place in the late sixties with such albums as Rubber Soul and Aftermath. She admires bands like The Byrds, and artists like Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. McCue plays every instrument she can get her hands on, including guitar, mandolin, cheatin' banjo, piano, harmonica, lap steel, slide banjo, bass guitar, ukelele, and shaker.

The shows will be at One Trick Pony at 136 East Fulton. A $10 donation is suggested, but it is not required. European seating is first come, first serve, so be sure to arrive early.

Call (616) 235-7669 or go to www.onetrick.biz for more information.

Second annual YNPN.GR Leadership Awards announce finalists

By: Brittney Schering

Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Greater Grand Rapids (YNPN.GR) is more than pleased to announce the finalists for its 2010 Leadership Awards.

Local nonprofit organizations nominated over 100 young nonprofit professionals who have made outstanding contributions to the nonprofit community through exemplary leadership at its organization or through volunteer involvement in the community.

The nomination process has resulted in 40 finalists for eight awards. Awards that will be given include: Young Nonprofit Professional of the Year, Advocate, DoGooder award, Edison award, Exemplary Executive, Good to Great, and Grantmaking Guru.

The awards will be presented at the YNPN.GR Leadership Awards celebration on Oct. 28 at Grand Rapids Art Museum. To order tickets, visit http://leadershipawards2010.eventbrite.com.

Awards will recognize seven local nonprofit professionals and one organization for its contributions to the sector. For more information, please visit www.ynpngr.org.

Tickets on sale for Tulip Time Festival 2011

By: Brittney Schering

Tulip Time Festival 2011 Entertainment line-up is packed with concerts, music, variety shows, festival events, Dutch dancing, and much more. Tickets went on sale yesterday at 10 a.m. for this must-see event.

The ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s will be well covered musically as the festival welcomes The Contours, Marvelettes, and Diamonds into Holland on May 12. B.J. Thomas and Gary Puckett, along with Union Gap, will perform on May 13.

Returning local show favorites include the Evergreen Chorale, Holland Chorale, Holland Civic Theatre, Tulip Time Salute, Wooden Shoe-Be-Doo, Barbershop, and the Dutch Heritage Show.

Tickets went on sale today, Oct. 21 at 10 a.m. They can be purchased at the Tulip Time Festival office at 238 S. River Ave. in Holland, by calling (800) 822-2770, or online at www.tuliptime.com.

For more information on the line-up for a complete list of the concerts and details, please head over to www.tuliptime.com.

Thriller! Chiller! Film Festival presents Grand Rapids filmmaker

By: Brittney Schering

Scott Baisden, a Michigan filmmaker who operates out of Grand Rapids, is pleased to announce the world premiere of his short film, Devil at the Door. It was chosen to play at the Thriller! Chiller! Film Festival on Sunday, Oct. 24 at noon.

Devil at the Door centers around Howard “Duke” Ellington, a lonely man with a terrible secret. He believes he has captured Satan himself and has imprisoned him in an upstairs room until he decides what to do next.

Baisden’s short film is part of a larger project, Abstract Alley, which is homage to The Twilight Zone-era of television storytelling. Themes and tropes include alien invasion, divine intervention, xenophobia, altered perceptions, and monsters.

Debate in Lansing is focused on the Michigan film tax incentive. In Grand Rapids, filmmakers such as Baisden have always made do without financial breaks, making art out of their own pockets. Devil at the Door was shot for less than 100 dollars and edited on a laptop without any post-production facilities. It was real guerilla, shoot-from-the-hip filmmaking.

For more information, please check out www.thrillerchiller.com.

Grand Raggidy Roller Girls’ season starts this weekend

By: Brittney Schering

Grand Raggidy Roller Girls (GRRG) invite everyone to join in as they greet the fall season with a long-awaited double-header on Saturday, Oct. 23.

Up first will be the G-Rap Attack! versus the Killamazoo Killa Krew. The Attack’s prowess expanded over summer travels, and it is now ready to show its hometown crowd some new tricks. With the fearless captions, an ever-growing team, and an insatiable thirst for a win, the Attack is bound to do some “killing” of its own.

For the second bout of the evening, the Grand Raggidy All Stars welcome Connecticut Roller Girls to West Michigan for their first-ever match up. The All Stars are geared up for a tough fight against the Stepford Sabotage. Determined to keep the momentum for their win against KDD last month, the All Stars are ready to show whose house it is.

Doors open at 5 p.m., and the action starts at 6. Arrive early to assure you will get a good seat. Tickets are available online, at the door, or from your favorite GRRGer. The event will be held at Rivertown Sports, 2605 Sanford Ave SW in Grandville. For more information, please head over to grandraggidyrollergirls.com.

Umphrey’s McGee to perform in Kalamazoo

By: Brittney Schering

Midwest favorites and Chicago natives, Umphrey’s McGee, will be at the State Theatre in Kalamazoo on Thursday, Oct. 22.

In addition to showing up on the lineup of several of the country’s top summer festivals this past season, it continues to be a pioneer in creating unique, interactive experiences for its large and continuously expanding legion of loyal fans.

The band’s new S2 events (pre-show events in various markets along the tour where fans can conduct the band) promise to pop up at least four times along the fall tour (first stop, Memphis!) and always over-the-top Halloween and New Year’s shows.

Tickets for the show are only $22.50 in advance. They will also be available at the door for $25. To purchase your tickets ahead of time, call 269-345-6500 or visiting www.kazoostate.com. All ages are welcome.

Revue caught up with the band over the summer. Read our interview here.

Grand Rapids Ballet Company presents, "Who Cares?"

By: Brittney Schering

Grand Rapids Ballet Company is proud to present Who Cares?, a classic favorite that portrays a broadly American exuberance. The program is not only the season-opener, but also the blockbuster George Balanchine/George Gershwin collaboration's first time in Grand Rapids.

The evening will open with Raymonda's glorious Pas de Dix in grand tutus and tiaras. For this magnificent program, special guest stars have been invited from Japan, Cuba, and Seattle to perform.

Kyohei Giovanni Yoshida, Bronze medalist in the USA International Ballet Competition dances the award-winning contemporary piece, Compulsion, along with the classical solo from Le Corsaire. Karel Cruz and Lindsi Dec of Pacific Northwest Ballet perform the spellbinding, luminous Sense of Doubt by Paul Gibson.

Who Cares? will grant the DeVos Performance Hall with is presence on Oct. 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m., and on Oct. 24 at 2 p.m. Tickets run $20-45 and are available at the Ballet box office or through Ticketmaster. Visit www.grballet.com or call (616) 454-4771 for more information.

Afro-Zep to grace West Michigan dance floors again

By: Brittney Schering

Afro-Zep is heading back to West Michigan for another performance at Bell's Eccentric Cafe. After its first-ever Michigan show there last spring led to a packed dance floor, they have to return. The crowd was the biggest that the club staff has yet to see on a Thursday night.

Chicago's top rock, jazz, and world musicians have collided for a truly unique hybrid known as Afro-Zep. The collective of Chicago musicians will play a set of all Led Zeppelin tunes re-done in the intertwined style of Afrobeat and Afropop.

With vocalist Wilson on guitar, Marshall Greenhouse on drums, and lead-vocalist Ryan Behling on bass, Afro-Zep was recently selected for the Chicago Reader's 'Best of Chicago 2010' list. This cover band has gained recognition from some of the most well-respected music publications.

It will be at Bell's Eccentric Cafe on Friday, Oct. 22 and Founders Brewery on Saturday, Oct. 23. Admission is only $5 at Bell's, and again at Founders. Both shows are scheduled to begin at 9:30 p.m. Dave Hamilton of 56 Hope Road will also be performing at both shows. Come on out for a unique and talented twist on old-time favorites.

For more information, please check out http://bellsbeer.com or www.foundersbrewing.com.

BODIES REVEALED tickets on sale Oct. 20

By: Brittney Schering

Grand Rapids Public Museum is pleased to announce that individual tickets for the highly anticipated BODIES REVEALED exhibition go on sale Wednesday, Oct. 20.

Viewed by millions worldwide, the exhibition features real, whole and partial body specimens that have been meticulously dissected and preserved following their documented donation to science. Through this respectful display, visitors will have a unique opportunity to get an up-close look inside the skeletal, muscular, respiratory, circulatory, and other anatomical systems, as well as learn how lifestyle choices directly affect our health as a whole.

A non-member adult ticket is $15, with reduced prices for members, seniors, and children. Tickets will be available at www.grmuseum.org, by phone at (616) 456-3977, or at the Museum’s front desk at 272 Pearl Street NW. BODIES REVEALED will be open through May 1, 2011 in the Museum’s Lacks Gallery.

Local health care providers, including medical doctors, anatomy professors and the like, will be present during the exhibit’s busiest viewing hours to interact with guests and further enhance their learning process.

The Museum plans an extensive array of programming, including a health sciences career fair, a lecture series, and public programs. The programs, appropriate for all ages, will extend the learning experience beyond the exhibit hall.

The Museum’s ultimate goal in bringing this phenomenal exhibition to Grand Rapids is to foster education in the health sciences and inspire the next generation of health care workers who will be crucial to the support of the region’s burgeoning health sciences corridor.

For more information, please call (616) 456-3977 or visit www.grmuseum.org.

Ozzy to kick off his North American tour Nov. 12

By: Brittney Schering

Rock legend and reality television star, Ozzy Osbourne, will make a stop in Grand Rapids on Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. to perform at Van Andel Arena after kicking off his fall North American arena tour Nov. 12 in Victoria, B.C.

Tickets go on sale Saturday, Oct. 23 at 10 a.m. Purchase them online at ticketmaster.com, or at any Ticketmaster outlet, Van Andel Arena, and DeVos Place box office, or call 1-800-745-3000. Ticket prices are $29.50, $45, $65, and $85 depending on seating.

Halford, featuring the legendary Judas Priest front man, Rob Halford, will also perform. Osbourne recently completed a run of overseas festival appearances and headlined overseas performances including his first ever concert in Israel: a Sept. 28 Ozzefest show.

Later this week, Ozzy will perform in Japan before he returns to the U.S. to headline the Voodoo Experience festival on Halloween weekend in New Orleans. For more information on Ozzy or his upcoming performance in Grand Rapids, please go to http://www.vanandelarena.com/Events.aspx?eg=2337.

Splendid Threads, Secret Messages: The Language of Japanese Kimonos

By: Brittney Schering

The Muskegon Museum of Art has opened a new exhibition, Splendid Threads, Secret Messages: The Language of Japanese Kimonos. The exhibition will run through Jan. 23, 2011. It provides an introduction to the world of Japanese kimonos. Symbolic messages are hidden in their exquisite decorations and traditions from the past still dictate how they are worn today.

While Westerners readily recognize this garment and its country of origin, our knowledge generally stops there. Closer examination can provoke many questions, such as: Do all those birds, flowers, and fans really mean something? Why are some sleeves so very long?

Hidden in the design details are messages of love, honor, longevity, faithfulness, and more. Kimonos, while similar in style, can reveal social status, age, the season of the year, and other aspects of daily life through pattern, color, and fabric.

The selection of more than a dozen garments covers a range of traditional clothing from children's wear to bridal robes and men's attire to resort apparel. Today kimonos are worn primarily for festivals and celebrations, but they remain icons of Japanese culture.

Splendid Threads was organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art with the assistance of guest curator Patricia Wade. The exhibition is sponsored by the Van Kampen Foundation and Blue Lake Public Radio. Please head over to www.muskegonartmuseum.org for more information and related programs in the area.

Experience Grand Rapids' paranormal happenings firsthand

By: Brittney Schering

Cityscape Adventures announce the launch of its Paranormal Investigation Tours, guided tours into Grand Rapids' most haunted sites. During the tours, attendees will learn how to use authentic ghost-hunting equipment and test their abilities to sense the paranormal activity throughout the city.

Be sure to stay close to your paranormal tour guide as it leads you into the darkest places in Grand Rapids. Listen to stories of bone-chilling personal encounters with the ghosts inside each of the locations you will investigate.

Experience the paranormal investigation tour on a Friday from now until Sept. 30, 2011. Admission is $26 online or $32 at the door. The tours meet at Rosa Parks Circle at 8 p.m. and revisit some of the oldest haunts whose spirits still roam the streets of Grand Rapids.

Eyewitness accounts of physical phenomena and disturbances have been reported and observed at several locations. Guests should consider this before participating in a tour. Each person brave enough to come along is at will and responsible for his/her own safety and well-being.

The tours are virtually ghost-hunting. They are not for the faint of heart. Facts and circumstances regarding ongoing paranormal activity are too graphic and inappropriate for young children. For more information, check out www.cityscapeadventures.com.

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents: Our Town

By: Brittney Schering

As compelling today as it was when first performed in 1938, Our Town is an American classic that celebrates the beauty of life as it is played out against a simplistic backdrop of daily rituals.

Often called the greatest American play ever written, the story is small town, Grover's Corners, told in three acts: "Daily Life," "Love and Marriage," and "Death and Eternity." The timelessness of Our Town provides the audience with a deeply moving, universal glimpse into the concerns of all humankind.

The event will be held at 30 N. Division Ave. in Grand Rapids on Friday, Oct. 15 through Saturday, Oct. 30. Performances are Wednesday through Saturday evenings, with matinee shows on Sundays. Tickets range from $4 to $25.

The cast consists of: Dave Benson, Jerry Borths, Sherryl Despres, Matt Dixon, Frances Gentile, Chelsea Herrema, Alec Juarez, Teri Kuhlman, Joe LaChapelle, Jon March, Hannah Melton, Larry Melton, Todd Osbeck, Karan Petkus, Michael Phelps, Mike Roberts, Kitty Slasinski, Alex Steinbrenner, Elly Stevens, and Paul Tierney.

For more information, please head over to http://www.grct.org/currentseason.html.

Largest outdoor haunted spectacular hits West Michigan

By: Brittney Schering

Featured on Fox 17 as one of the newest haunted attractions to hit West Michigan, Festival of Fear is "the largest outdoor haunted spectacular." It features zip lines, haunted hay rides, fresh apple cider, food, beverages, and much more.

Located at Sparta Rodeo Grounds, 2380 13 Mile Road in Sparta, this event insures a fun time for the whole family. Tickets for the event range from $15 (general admission) to $33 (a combo. fast pass). Special rates apply for groups of 10 or more.

The event is open Wednesday to Friday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. It is open on Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. During the week of the 26th, Festival of Fear is open on Tuesday, as well.

Donations will be distributed to local charities every week. While they are suggested and appreciated, but they are not required. For more information, please head over to www.festivaloffear.net.

Dan Henderson’s art to be displayed during October

By: Brittney Schering

The Washington Square Art Gallery is pleased to announce that it will feature Dan Henderson’s photography during the month of October.

Dan Henderson’s flirtation with photography began as a child using a Kodak Instamatic, as he became the “official” photographer of family vacations. Later he experienced the thrill and alchemy of the high school’s dark room as he watched his first print appear from the developer, and experimented in that “dark chamber” to produce unusual images.

Henderson works in black and white film today. He develops all of his own art in a dark room. He uses the classic photographic process to better express his vision.

The Gallery is located at 453 Washington Ave. in Holland. The hours are Wednesday-Thursday, 12-7 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 12-9 p.m. For more information, please visit http://www.washingtonsquareartgallery.com/ or call (616) 396-0230.

WYCE's Fall Fund Drive returns Oct. 15

By: Brittney Schering

It is said that "Listener-Sponsored" is WYCE's first name. Your chance to help the truly eclectic "volunteer-powered" music radio in West Michigan is coming soon.

For one week only, Friday, Oct. 15 to Friday, Oct. 22, WYCE's Fall Fund Drive is a celebration of local talent, friends, fans, and volunteers who make up the community that keeps the station on the radio.

WYCE is an independent, community radio sation serving the communities in West Michigan with its on-air FM programming at 88.1 Mhz, and reaching out to the world through online streaming on the Internet. Find out more, or listen to WYCE, at www.grcmc.org/radio.

Bryan Adams tickets go on sale next Friday

By: Brittney Schering

Bryan Adams is bringing his highly successful solo-acoustic concert tour to Grand Rapids with a special, intimate concert at DeVos Performance Hall on Dec. 6. Tickets for this must-see event go on sale next Friday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m.

The show will provide a rare opportunity for fans to see Adams as they have not seen him before: solo-acoustic. With this special performance, you will see that Adams' status as one of the greatest songwriters of our time has been more than solidified.

Adams has sold more than 65 million records, toured six continents and achieved number-one status in more than 40 countries around the world. His well-known hits include, "Cuts Like a Knife," "Summer of '69," "Kids Wanna Rock," "Can't Stop This Thing We've Started," "(Everything I do) I do it for you," "Open Road," and the most recent, "Thought I'd Seen Everything."

Tickets for this acoustic show can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, DeVos Place, Van Andel Arena box offices, and Ticketmaster outlets. Prices range form $37.50 to $77.50. For more information, head over to bryanadams.com.

DeVos Performance Hall is managed by SMG. Since 1977, SMG has provided management services to more than 220 public assembly facilities worldwide, including arenas, stadiums, theatres, performing arts centers, equestrian facilities, science centers, and a variety of other venues. For more information on what SMG has to offer, check out www.smgworld.com.

Flyleaf and Story of the Year perform at Orbit Room this weekend

By Toni Swider

Story of the Year opened for Flyleaf and the band members impressed the crowd with their acrobatics and charisma. They made the crowd feel like a part of the show. They have come into their own over the years and don’t seem to be slowing down. SOTY can still bring the party and the fans are ready to rage.

Although there was a lot of people at the Orbit Room to see Story of the Year more people came out of the woodwork when Flyleaf took the stage. When the banner dropped the crowd went wild, chanting “Flyleaf.”

Entering after an intriguing light show, Flyleaf wasted no time getting the crowd enthralled in its lyrics. Hands to the sky and eyes closed, fans were taking every word Lacey Mosley would sing straight to their hearts. Her voice is so unique and beautiful. It can be soothing one second and tear the walls down the next with a scream that sends shivers down your spine. Never once did a voice crack or loss the beat.

Mosley knows how to perform and encapsulate the entire crowd while doing it. Flyleaf didn’t disappoint and never lost their energy. The songs touched everyone’s souls; they were heartfelt and performed to perfection. It was another great performance and an exciting night at the Orbit Room.

Griffin explores 'Events of October' murder-suicide

By: Brittney Schering

The 1999 murder-suicide of Maggie Wardle and Neenef Odah on Kalamazoo College's campus will be thoroughly explored by author Gail Griffin. "The Events of October: Murder-Suicide on a Small Campus" will be held in the Ryerson Auditorium of the Grand Rapids Public Library on Oct. 13 at 7 p.m.

In her new book, The Events of October, author and Kalamazoo College professor, Gail Griffin, attempts to answer the lingering question, "How could this happen to two seemingly normal students on such a close-knit campus?"

Griffin will discuss the relationship between Maggie and Neenef-- a bright, athletic, local girl and the quiet Iraqi-American computer student. She will examine the tension that built between them, leading to the breakup. She will also use the story to explore larger issues of intimate partner violence, gun accessibility, depression, and suicide.

On a Sunday night during Homecoming weekend, Neenef Odah lured his ex-girlfriend Maggie Wardle to his dorm room at Kalamazoo College and killed her at close range with a shot gun before he killed himself. In the wake of this tragedy, the small, idyllic liberal arts college's community struggled to characterize the incident. It was titled, "the events of October," in a campus memo.

Griffin's sources include college documents, official police reports, Neenef's suicide note, and an instant message record. For more information, call (616) 988-5400 or visit www.grpl.org.

Cirque du Soleil to present Dralion in GR

By: Brittney Schering

Cirque du Soleil is pleased to announce that its newest arena show, Dralion, will be at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids from Jan. 12-16. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, Oct. 12 at www.cirquedusoleil.com/dralion or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Purchase yours as soon as you can; this anticipated event is expected to sell out.

Cirque Club members can buy advance discounted tickets can be purchased online through Oct. 11. Membership is free, and benefits include access to advance tickets, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes information. To join, go to www.cirqueclub.com.

Thrilling more than eight million people worldwide since the show premiered in 1999, Dralion is the fusion of ancient Chinese circus traditions and the avant-garde style of Cirque du Soleil.

The name Dralion (pronounced “Dra-lee-on”) is drawn from its two main symbols: the dragon, representing the East, and the lion, representing the West. The name derives much of its inspiration from Eastern philosophy with its perpetual quest for harmony between humankind and nature.

The international cast features 52 world-class acrobats, gymnasts, musicians, singers, and comedic characters. For more information, check out www.cirquedusoleil.com.

Grand Rapids Symphony - Fox Motors Pop Series: Rockapella goes Retro this weekend

By: Brittney Schering

Groove to the music of the '60s and '70s this weekend with the Grand Rapids Symphony vocal quintet's completely original take on pop at DeVos Performance Hall. Concert times are Friday, Oct. 8 and Saturday, Oct. 9 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 10 at 3 p.m.

Its infectious energy, showmanship, and musical harmony, mixed with hits like Here Comes the Sun, Rock the Boat, and The Beat Goes On, creates an unforgettable must-see show.

David Lockington, music director of Grand Rapids Symphony, is the conductor of Rockapella goes Retro. Tickets are only $23.50 for this fabulous performance. For further details, head over to http://grsymphony.org/concerts/pops-series/rockapella-goes-retro.

Third Floor Event happens tonight

By: Brittney Schering

Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro is having its Third Floor Event tonight at 9 p.m. at 105 E. State Street in Hastings.

Tony LaJoye presents the event, which is a celebration of local music and art, in the ballroom of the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro.

Musicians to be featured tonight include Tony LaJoye Trio and Stevie Soul. Tony LaJoye Trio brings a combination of acoustic, jazz, and R&B. It has been performing since the age of 12. His style of guitar-looping creates a full-band sound with rich layers and a fresh, rhythmic style. Stevie Soul is better known as Detroit's hottest R&B/soul recording artist. He now teaches children of all ages in an outreach program called, "Music and Movement."

Artists Scott Adams, Donovan Cater, Brian Sheehy, and Michael Hoskins, as well as several area vendors, will also be at the Third Floor Event. Ages 18 and up are welcome to attend and enjoy this event.

Admission is only $5, and more information can be found at www.walldorffbrewpub.com.

Boutique distillery to open in Grand Rapids

By: Brittney Schering

Artesian Distillers, a manufacturer of specialty spirits and private label products, is scheduled to open its first location in Grand Rapids in late October, called Beverage Solution Technologies.

Leslie Iglesias and Amir Haririan, owners, are in the final stages of preparation to open the doors for business. The distillery will manufacture private label spirits for domestic and global clients.

Along with private label bottling, Beverge Solution Technologies will produce a signature line of vodka, whiskey, and rum. Its line of Antidote and RMD, pronounced "remedy," will be available in some markets and selected fine establishments in Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin by the holidays.

The new business, located in the 955 Ken-O-Sha Industrial Park Dr. S.E., is a welcome addition to the Grand Rapids community. The facility is licensed to sell its products to the general public as well as offering a tasting room. The plant will hire 20+ employees with anticipated growth in the near future.

Griffins to host third annual “Pups and Pucks” dog walk-a-thon

By: Brittney Schering

Grand Rapids Griffins will host its third annual “Pups and Pucks” fall walk-a-thon next Monday, Oct. 11. Beene Garter L.L.P. presents this event by Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary in Lake Odessa.

Griffins’ players, coaches, and front-office staff will walk rescued dogs for pledges made by fans through firstgiving.org/grg. Animal lovers are encouraged to attend (with or without a dog to walk), to collect their own pledges, and to enjoy a variety of activities that begin at 4:30 p.m.

Activities include:

• Live Music by Lew Russ – From 4:30-8:30 p.m.;

• BBQ – Provided by Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill between 4:30-8 p.m.;

• Hay Rides – Enjoy a hay ride around Mackenzie’s property from 5-8 p.m.;

• Puppy Pumpkin Decorating – Create a puppy face using paint, pumpkins and other fun materials;

• K-9 Costume Contest – Best-dressed dog wins a prize;

• Pet Experts and Vendors – A variety of animal professionals and pet vendors will be available to share information about their services and answer questions about your pet needs;

• Silent Auction – Features items ranging from team-signed Griffins jerseys, spa packages and Bissell vacuums, to celebrity-signed merchandise and local restaurant gift certificates;

• Caricature Artists – Get a caricature painted of you and your furry friend;

• Microchipping – From 5-7:30 p.m., have your dog microchipped for $20 with the “Home Again” anti-migration chip;

• Bake sale – Snack on a delicious treat or get one to take home;

• Petting Zoo – Fans are welcome to enjoy a petting zoo presented by Farm Animals on the Go!

Fans wishing to participate in the walk-a-thon are encouraged to collect pledges for the event. Those who are unable to collect, or simply want to attend, can do so by paying a $10 entry fee. Children age three and under are free.

Dogs must be registered along with proof of health-care and vaccinations. Early registration begins at 4:30 p.m., or fans can download registration forms at www.mackenzies.info/events/walkathon.php.

The event raised $15,000 during each of is first two years in support of Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary, the Midwest’s largest no-kill sanctuary that is dedicated to providing a “home along the way” for dogs in need.

DeVos Place to host Grand Rapids Young Professionals event

By: Brittney Schering

Join in on "A New Conversation" Wednesday, Oct. 13 for the Grand Rapids Young Professionals' second annual community conversation as they present: VOTE! Be the Change You Want to See.

This year's event features Lauri Parks, Grand Rapids City Clerk. She is scheduled to speak about the issues facing us in upcoming elections.

A panel discussion between young professional representatives from the Democratic, Green, Libertarian, and Republican parties will follow, engaging conversation on the current political climate and issues impacting our community.

Participants may tweet #ANCVOTE to have questions answered via Twitter throughout the panel discussion. DeVos Place Convention Center will host the event from 5:30 - 8 p.m.

The public can register to attend at http://anewconversation.eventbrite.com. It is free of charge, however, online registration is required no later than Oct. 8.

"A New Conversation" began as a collaborative effort in 2009. For further information, contact Amanda Rogalski at (616) 540-9231 or aarogalski@gmail.com.

Celebration! Cinema launches new website

By: Brittney Schering

At 8:36 p.m. EST, Celebration! Cinema revealed the brand new celebrationcinema.com. The new website mirrors the look and feel of the actual theatre itself.

Development continues as Celebration! Cinema creates new methods and tools for communicating with moviegoers and those who seek a dynamic entertainment experience.

The new website is pink to represent “The Pink Bucket Project.” This October, all Celebration! Cinema theatres and Cinema Carousel aim to tell the story of a promise: the promise to imagine a world without breast cancer and the promise to make that world a reality.

During this month, every time you purchase a bucket of popcorn, a pink Celebration! Cinema gift card, or any pink menu item, a portion of your purchase will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

For further information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, please check out http://ww5.komen.org.

Local flavor; local sweat: 3-day open studio event

By: Brittney Schering

Destination 1111 is a three-day open studio event happening this weekend, Oct. 1-3. It is the original alternative art event in Grand Rapids. Come out and see the work of more than 100 artists from the Midwest coming together for three magical days.

Painting, photography, sculpture, printmaking, performance, film, collage, poetry, and textiles can be expected at Destination: 1111.

Lazy Genius, Ribbons of Song, Palicity, 4 Lincolns, La Mala Vista Social Club, Valentiger, Alexis, Ohalis, Wazobia, Juliet Bennet Rylah and many more will be featured at the event.

Times to check out Destination: 1111 are: Friday, 6-11 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., and Sunday, 12-6 p.m. For further information, please check out www.destination1111.blogspot.com.

Pulaski Days 2010 happens this weekend

By: Brittney Schering

Come out and enjoy three days of Polish hospitality, food, music, and activities at 14 halls and clubs around Grand Rapids this weekend for Pulaski Days 2010.

All participating halls will have Polish dinners with kielbasa, golumbki, pierogi, kapusta, potatoes, and hot dogs. Most dinners are around $7. Each will also provide live music, polka, and beverages. Bar hours, menu, and cover charges vary by location.

The Pulaski Days parade is scheduled for tomorrow, Oct. 2 at 11 a.m. It will take place on West Fulton, starting at Seward and ending at John Ball Park Zoo. Parade trophies will follow at Kosciuszko Hall.

Participating Halls:

Diamond Hall - 435 Diamond NE
Little Hall - 823 Michigan NE
Northeast Post 459 - 658 Michigan NE
Eastern Ave Hall - 506 Eastern Ave NE
Sons & Daughters - 1057 Hamilton NW
Vytautus - 1300 Hamilton NW
St. George's Hall - 1513 Quarry NW
K of C Hall - 1140 Muskegon NW
Sixth Street Hall - 649 Sixth St NW
Fifth Street Hall - 701 Fifth St NW
Jackson Street Hall - 921 Jackson NW
Lexicon Club - 209 Lexington NW
Polish Falcons - 957 West Fulton
Laddies Hall - 58 Lane SW
Koscuiszko Hall - 935 Park SW

Live Music Highlights:

7 p.m. - 12 a.m. - The Kielbasa Kings Polka Band @ Sons & Daughters
1 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Grand River Polka Band @ Eastern Ave Hall
2:30 - 7:30 p.m. - The Diddle Styx @ Kosciuszko Hall

The shuttle will be available Friday, 7 p.m. to midnight, and Saturday, 3 p.m. to midnight. For more information, please head over to www.pulaskidays.org.

Cottage burger is named 'best in Michigan' by USA Today

By: Brittney Schering

Despite the lip-smacking virtues of specialty burgers like Traverse city cherry, Alaskan salmon, and Tijuana guacamole, it is the Cottage burger, nestled in a rye bun and dripping with American and Swiss cheese, chopped olives, lettuce, tomato, and handcrafted smoky mayonnaise, that USA Today officially named, "the best burger in Michigan."

The Cottage Bar and Restaurant, home of the Cottage burger, is the oldest operating bar and restaurant in Downtown Grand Rapids. It is known for the casual charm and down-to-earth atmosphere and famous for having the city's best burgers.

The Cottage burger was recommended by Jaye Beeler, a food writer with Arbutuspress.com. Hours that you can come in and try one for yourself are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

For more information and a full menu of mouthwatering meals, please head over to www.cottagebar.biz.

Sheila Landis Trio comes to GR next Friday

By: Brittney Schering

The Majic concert series presents the Sheila Landis Trio on Friday, Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church on Commerce Ave. in Grand Rapids.

Detroit's own jazz vocalist Sheila Landis will perform her original compositions and contemporary selections with her jazz trio featuring guitarist Rick Matle and world beat percussionist, Dennis Sheridan.

Landis uses her extraordinarily flexible voice and an uncanny ability to use it to scat, sing ballads, and create Latin rhythms. She sings jazz, rock, bebop, and Latin with absolute equanimity. Her multifaceted musical elasticity allows her to take part in any jazz scenario with ease and excellence. Her work continues to exude vitality, excitement, diversity, and originality.

As a vocalist since 1973, her current schedule has her performing at Michigan's most prestigious festivals, concert venues, and nightclubs. She draws her inspiration from classic jazz vocalists Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan and Billie Holiday as well as modern artists such as Joni Mitchell, The Beatles, and Antonio Carlos Jobim.

Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, please head over to www.grmajic.org or www.wideopenwest.com/~slandis.