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REVUEWM.COM | April 2013 |
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things to do for or less!
Some are so cheap … they’re FREE!
ARTS Art Hop The first Friday of every month downtown Kalamazoo boutiques, freelance designers and artists showcase and sell their pieces. The event itself is free and item prices depend on vendor. Avenue for the Arts Avenue for the Arts often hosts free events that showcase local artists and many of the live/work spaces on the South Division strip have daily open gallery hours with no admission costs. The newest Avenue event series, First Thursdays, is designed to give the community a monthly opportunity to explore these galleries, meet the artists who live and work in the spaces, and according to one of the series’ coordinators Amanda Carmer, “experience something incredible.” Initiated by two of the Avenue’s newest spaces, Gaspard Gallery and Craft House, First Thursdays will feature exhibition openings and special events all along the Avenue the first Thursday of every month. “Many of the galleries and live/ work spaces have already hopped on the bandwagon, and we’re hoping for even more participating venues as popularity of the event grows. The success of events like this are sure to transform downtown into a refined, cutting-edge commercial district and heartier neighborhood,” Carmer said. Also coming up: Art.Downtown. on April 12, a free event with 300 participating local artists and 30 destinations. Grand Rapids Art Museum If you’re in search of a night of art, music, and conversation, The Grand Rapids Art Museum (101 Monroe Center NW, Grand Rapids) offers discounted admission from 5-9 p.m. for Friday Nights at GRAM. Admission is $5 for non-members and free for members. Each night features live music, cash bar, and a rotation of guest speakers and presentations from local artists and community members. Just down the road from the GRAM is a hotbed of art by the people for the people … Graphic Design: Now in Production, through April 21, explores the art of visual communication and the ways design influences everyday life. Stephen Frykholm: Herman Miller Picnic Posters, until May 12, features the posters designed for the annual company picnic that have
now become iconic. Finally, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill, a series of paintings about the struggles of slavery and the journey to escape, will be displayed until April 14. Admission to the museum is $8. GR Tag Tour Just because Christie’s sells works of art for millions of dollars doesn’t mean you have to be a trust fund baby to get your visual fix. In fact, sometimes finding art is simply a matter of taking a stroll and taking in what surrounds you. If you’re wondering where to look, the GR Tag Tour can help you out. A mobile app designed to help discover the public art installations found in downtown, it’s the perfect tool to help you become your own docent. Visit GRTagTour.com to find your first stop on the walking tour, aptly named Art Around the Corner, grab your smart phone, and start scanning those QR codes for details on each stop and historical snippets about many locations downtown. The tour also lets you upload photos and search nearby businesses in case you get hungry along the way. Maps are available on the site as well, if QR codes aren’t your thing. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Home to both travelling exhibitions and a permanent collection of American and European art from as early as the 16th century, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (314 S. Park St.) offers days’ worth of artistic enjoyment. Admission is only $5 or $2 for
Ansel Adams at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
students with ID. Current exhibitions include “Reflections: African American Life,” “Sight and Feeling: Photographs by Ansel Adams” and “The Arts of China and Japan,” among many more. Muskegon Art Museum In addition to seasonal exhibits, the Muskegon Art Museum (296 W. Webster Ave.) offers movie screenings, lectures and storytelling events for kids. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students, and free for children. Experience the “Meditations” exhibit showcasing the oil paintings of Hughie LeeSmith, as well as a display of illustrations by nationally acclaimed Muskegon children’s author Laurie Keller. Saugatuck Center for the Arts Admission to the gallery (400 Culver St.), featuring lakeshore watercolors by James Johnson until May 4, is always free. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts Exhibitions at UICA (2 W. Fulton, Grand Rapids) include “Limitless” and “Chroma.” Running until May 12, “Limitless” features artists who have all responded to the theme of limits. “Chroma,” on display beginning May 31, explores color (or the lack of color) as the main form of expression. Admission is $5.
MUSIC Bell’s Brewing Music Bell’s Eccentric Cafe (355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo) features affordable music shows year-round. Join That 1 Guy for experimental “earthshaking future funk” on April 5 at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $10.
Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra The 16-piece Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra entertains the patrons of Founders Brewing Company (235 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) with classics and original compositions for free every first and third Sunday of the month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Order up the Brassworks BLT for $5.75 and your favorite
pint, and you’ll be amused and satiated for less than $10. Grand Rapids Symphony The Grand Rapids Symphony lets students experience orchestral performances for only $5. Just sign up at the Student Passport table the night of the show to receive a membership card. Not all shows are eligible for the student discount, but Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 on May 16 at DeVos Performance Hall (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) is included. Guitar lesson at Grand River Music Grand River offers free acoustic or electric guitar lesson in store (1533 Wealthy St.SE, Grand Rapids) or via Skype. Bass and mandolin lessons are also offered. Schedule your first class online at grandrivermusic.com or over the phone at (616) 356-6161. The Intersection Local folk titans The Crane Wives bring their killer three-part harmonies to The Intersection (133 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) on April 5. Tickets are $6 in advance and $8 on the day of show. On April 27, see the next best thing to Prince and Michael Jackson sharing a stage: “The Prince & Michael Experience,” a dance party and tribute to the two pop legends. San Francisco’s DJ Dave Paul hosts, and cover is $10. Another $10 event, Mega ‘80s, throws down on April 6 and 20. Lemonjello’s The popular Holland coffee shop (61 E. 9th St.) holds open mic nights and live music for less than $10 several times each month. Check out the schedule at lemonjellos.com.
Mulligan’s Pub No cover, cheap music and the self-proclaimed “cheapest happy hour in town” is what you get at Mulligan’s (1518 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids). If you’re not an early bird, outrageous drink specials are available until close, including $1.50 pints of PBR, $5 pitchers of Miller Lite and ever-changing $2 specials on tap. The Pyramid Scheme Several April shows at the venue (68 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) feature tickets for $10 or less. On April 12, Flashing Blue Lights celebrate its CD release along with Juxtapose and Jason Norman & the Red Lions for $6. The Besnard Lakes and Suuns perform April 19 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10. William Tyler performs April 23 at 9 p.m. Tickets are $8. Salt of the Earth Enjoy artisan breads and fresh, creative local dishes while taking in quality tunes. Salt of the Earth (114 E. Main St., Fennville) features several bands at 7 p.m. Upcoming $10 shows include slide guitarist Luke WinslowKing on April 3 and Appalachian folk duo Red Tail Ring on April 21. Reservations are recommended. Saugatuck Brewing Company See live music every Saturday night at Saugatuck Brewing (2948 Blue Star Hwy., Douglas). Grab one of their homemade sandwiches and enjoy the (free!) show. Seven Steps Up When not hosting private events or concerts, the banquet center (116 S. Jackson St., Spring Lake) also hosts Strings and Things Open Mic Night the first and third Tuesday
of every month. The music starts at 7 p.m. and is free.
FILM Celebration! Cinema If you were somehow born yesterday and don’t know yet, Celebration! Cinema Woodland (3195 28th St. SE) is probably one of the most reliable silver screens for less than $5. See end-of-run films, along with a few indie flicks peppered in at this theater. For current titles and screening times, check out celebrationcinema.com. Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Meijer Theater To be fiscally effective and socially aware all at once, visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Meijer Theater (272 Pearl St. NW) on April 9, when the West Michigan Environmental Action Council Film Series will present The Last Mountain, a documentary film investigating strip-mining and mountaintop removal. The $2 tickets also include access to a panel discussion following the film, which starts at 6:30 p.m. According to WMEAC, the film series is “a fun and accessible way to educate the West Michigan community on pressing environmental issues. The goal is to make these screenings more than just a movie, but an opportunity to engage audiences and inspire them toward sustainable actions.” Kalamazoo 10 Movies at this theater (820 Maple Hill Dr.) range from $5.25-$7.75 for the latest releases.
REVUEWM.COM | April 2013 |
Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule
Billy’s Lounge Weekly no-cover events at Billy’s (1437 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids) include BassBin Mondays, Open Mic Tuesdays, ‘90s Holla Back Thursdays and Revival ‘80s Sundays. For a $2-$5 cover, you can catch live music.
The Pyramid Scheme
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Kent Theater Thanks to charitable donations from the community, Kent Theater (8 S. Main St. NE, Cedar Springs) upgraded to a digital projector system and can continue showing recent films for just $3. Little Theatre Western Michigan University’s Little Theatre showcases movies and documentaries not necessarily found in big chain theaters. April’s features include Amour, winner of the 2012 Cannes Film Festival and 2013 Oscar for Best Foreign Film. Tickets are $5.
Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene
Meanwhile Movies For $6 ($5 for CMC members), take in a classic off the beaten path from the ‘70s, ‘80s, or ‘90s every Tuesday night at Wealthy Theatre (1130 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids). Doors open at 7:15 and movies begin at 8 p.m. If you’ve worked up a late night appetite by the end of the film, head down the street to Yesterdog for a $2-$2.50 hot dog or two (or three).
DINING 8th Street Grille With 28 taps of craft beer, 8th Street Grille (20 W 8th St., Holland) would be enticing even without the penny-saving specials, like the pot roast and mashed potatoes for $7.95 on Saturdays or the pulled-pork barbecue sandwich and fries for $6.95 on Wednesdays. Crooked Goose Happy hour at the Crooked Goose (355 Wilson Ave. NW, Walker) is Monday-Friday from 3-6 p.m. and includes $2 drafts, $2 wells and half-off appetizers. Central City Tap House Central City’s (359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo) menu features sandwiches and burgers for less than $10. All Michigan beers are half-off on Saturday from noon-4 p.m. The Corner Bar The Corner Bar (31 N. Main St., Rockford) has its “World Famous” chili dog basket for $6.99, which features chili dogs, fries and coleslaw. Dogs With Style Average price of hotdog at Dogs with Style (410 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo) is $2.50. El Sombrero The self-proclaimed “originator of the wet burrito,” El Sombrero (527 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids) does not mess around when
it comes to its burrito sauce. If you’re in the mood for Mexican, the entire El Sombrero menu is less than $10. Free Cooking Classes Learn how to make Italian classics with free cooking classes at Amore Trattoria Italiana (5080 Alpine Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) on the second Saturday of most months. Harmony Brewing Company Open just more than a year, Harmony Brewing Company (1551 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids) is quickly becoming known for their brews and even more so for their homemade, entirely fresh pizzas. Try a wood-fired cheese or pepperoni pizza for just $5-6 on Tuesdays, or $3 pints all day on Mondays. Meatless Monday Vegan Cooking Demo A free cooking demo hosted by Kolene Allen and Jon Dunn from vegangr.com takes place at Uptown Kitchen (423 Norwood Ave. SE, Grand Rapids). The demonstration focuses on substitutions for dairy and meat products in common recipes. If interested, register for the April 22 event at grpl.org/event/ meatless-monday. Menna’s Joint If you’ve never tried, or even heard of, a dub, you’re missing out. Similar to a grilled wrap, a dub is loaded with meats, cheeses, veggies, sauces, whatever you like, you name it. Even if you’re in the mood for breakfast, Menna’s Joint (3501 Stadium Dr., Kalamazoo and 10897 48th Ave, Suite B100, Allendale)
has you covered with its variety of breakfast dubs to choose from. The best part is that the entire menu is less than $10, and they deliver if you are in reasonable distance. The Pita House Split a Mediterranean influenced specialty platter with a friend or loved one at The Pita House (1450 Wealthy SE, 3730 28th St., 4533 Ivanrest SW, Grand Rapids). Prices range from $7.99-$13.49. Rose’s Express Sandwich meals at Rose’s (2224 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids) are less than $10, and include kettle chips. Saugatuck Brewing Company Great specials are here (2948 Blue Star Hwy., Douglas) every weekday for less than $10. Our personal favorites include the Reubens for $6.95 on Wednesdays and half-pound burgers for $7.25 on Thursdays. Smashburger A burger joint with a penchant for regional flavors, all Smashburger (4315 W. Main St. in Kalamazoo, 6333 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Suite 450 in Kentwood, 25 Michigan St. and 2650 E. Beltline SE in Grand Rapids) menu options are less than $10. Choose from classic favorites such as the Michigan olive burger or the cherry, barbecue, bacon and cheddar burger featuring cherry barbecue sauce made from Michigan cherries. All burgers are “smashed fresh” and made to order. The restaurant also offers veggie burgers, a variety of salads and a-createyour-own-burger option. The Union Cabaret and Grille This grille (125 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo) offers a variety of appetizers, drinks and desserts for less than $10, not to mention daily food and drink specials, including $5 Burger Tuesdays. Show your college I.D. to get 15 percent off your bill. The Union also features free live music every Tuesday through Saturday. Yesterdog If you’re new to Grand Rapids or were somehow stuck under an enormous rock for the past several decades, you probably missed that Yesterdog (1505 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids) has deliciously messy dogs for about $2 each. Forget napkins, they can’t save you from these beasts.
Cheap flicks at Wealthy Theatre
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Harmony Brewing Company
XO Asian Cuisine XO (58 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids) has half-off sushi rolls (excludes sushi entrees and chef special rolls) on Tuesday. Prices range $2-$7.50 per order. Frozen Yogurt Warmer weather is just around the corner. Cool off with endless frozen yogurt flavor and topping combinations. New shops spring up, many locally owned and operated, with ever-changing flavors. The best part? You pick how much you pay. Just make sure to go easy on the hot fudge and skittles, and this treat is definitely less than $10. Businesses include The Pump House (2090 Celebration Dr. NE, Grand Rapids), Spoonlickers (1971 East Beltline NE and 1551 Wealthy in Grand Rapids; 400 Ada Dr. SE in Ada), Bloop (6333 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Gaines Township) and Sweet Yo’s (2180 Wealthy SE and 134 Monroe Center NW, Grand Rapids).
LIBATIONS Bell’s Brewery Tours Free tours of one of the oldest craft beer brewers in the U.S. (335 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo) are offered every Saturday and Sunday at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 p.m. with a 12:30 p.m. time also offered on Saturdays. Big Brew Day Bell’s Eccentric Cafe (335 E. Kalamazoo Ave.) hosts Big Brew Day to celebrate homebrewing on May 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature live demonstrations and is free to attend.
The Grotto at Capones Restaurant by day, bar by night (2636 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo). Get your fair share of Chicago deep dish or traditional pizza and enjoy any of the 24 different beers on tap while doing it. There is never a cover charge and all drink specials go until 1 a.m. Mojo’s Piano Dueling Bar and Restaurant Mojo’s (180 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids), features live piano shows
Rich Dad Date, Poor Dad Date
/ by Joe Gasmann
Budget: Free
Budget: $10
Live near Morley, Mich. or willing to drive? You and your date curious about the thrilling world of Battletech (The Board Game of Armored Combat!!!)? You’re in luck! Aaron from Craigslist is looking for other adventurous scamps to join him for an evening of heavy metal mayhem. He has everything you need to play, says it’s cool to bring a date, and swears he’s not dangerous. So, search “Battletech Players” in the Activity Partners section of Craigslist and have the time of your lives!
Even with a bottle of drugstore cough medicine ringing up at just more than $5, you’re well under your budget of $10 and well on your way to a killer time! After splitting the sweet nectar (60/40), you can spend a few hours playing “Bad Journalist.” The goal of “Bad Journalist” is to ask a random person if Traders Joe’s and Whole Foods are coming to town, then regurgitate the lies on your blog. The rest of the money can be spent on a cab ride. Use the backseat time to get to second base.
Budget: $5 This is pretty much the same as the free date, but you can now afford to stop at Meijer for some gamer food. For $3.50, you can grab a 40-count bag of Totino’s Pizza Rolls. It’s good to stay hydrated whilst gaming, and specially marked bags offer a free two-liter of Sundrop or Sunkist (my personal favorite “Sun” beverage). Spend the rest of your cash on a bulk candy dessert. Be sure to eat as much as you can, straight out of the bins, before filling your bag.
Wednesday-Saturday. Cover is $3 after 9 p.m. and drink specials include $1-$3 drinks on Wednesday and half-off martinis, $3 calls, $4 bombs and Red Bull vodkas on Thursdays. Montes Get in free with your college ID every Tuesday night for College Night Power Hour at Montes (438 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids). Drink specials included $2 you-call-its from 9-10 p.m. and 11 p.m.midnight and $1 you-call-its from 10-11 p.m. Old Dog Tavern Old Dog Tavern (402 W Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo) has the three Ps — popcorn, ping pong and pool — for free. Happy hour is Monday-Friday from 4-6 p.m. with $2.50 drafts and $1.50 domestic bottles. Live music performances are featured Friday and Saturday nights.
Budget: $20 Now we’re talking! First stop: The Bottle House. Located on the corner of Division and Melville, this back-alley bottle shop sells many things, but its bargain-basement pricing on fine wines is what sets it apart from other stores. For a very reasonable $3.69 a bottle (“the big ones” according to the shop-keep) MD 20/20 is the perfect candied drink to kick-start your date’s heart. Score! The Bottle House’s Google review notes that it’s also a “great place to get Doritos,” so this could also be your meal destination.
Rockwell/Republic Rockwell/Republic (45 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids) has $5 happy hour with sushi rolls and share plates Monday- Friday from 3-6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon-5 p.m. Weekends include the $5 Bloody Mary bar. Late night specials (9 p.m.-midnight) include half-off signature cocktails on Tuesday, half-off cocktails and shots on Wednesday and half-off signature martinis on Thursday. Pitchers of sangria are $10 Wednesday starting at 4 p.m. Olde Peninsula Brewpub and Restaurant For $10, take a tour of this Kalamazoo brewery (200 E. Michigan Ave.) and taste every beer on tap. Reserve your tour by calling (269) 343-2739. Happy hour specials from 3-6 p.m. and from 10-close include $3 specialty pints, 22 oz. select liquor drinks for $4.22, and $1 off dips, onion rings and hummus appetizers.
Ybar Thursday nights have $3 you-call-its and martini specials at Ybar (2804 W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo).
HOOKAH Blaze Hookah Lounge Blaze (2728 W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo) has more than 30 flavors to choose from and also serves food, coffee and smoothies. Attend one of its open mic poetry nights and read something you’ve written or just hang out with friends and soak up the atmosphere. Eastown Hookah Lounge Eastown Hookah Lounge (1522 Wealthy St. SE) is open until 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and offers a $10 hookah that can
REVUEWM.COM | April 2013 |
Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule
Cheap Pint Night at Founders Brewing Company Pints are half off every Monday after 7 p.m. at Founders (235 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) Class 1 pints are $2.50, Class 2 are $3.50
Cheap Dates
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WERQ Hip Hop Dance Class One of the hottest new fitness classes in the U.S. is taking place at a gym near you. Dance to pop, rock and hip hop music taught by certified professionals, all while getting your workout on. Studio Dance (2925 28th St. SE, Kentwood) has classes every Wednesday from 7:45-8:30 p.m. Knapp Street Church (4025 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids) has them every Tuesday from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Snap Fitness (2056 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, Grand Rapids) offers them every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. For more locations and times check out werqfitness.com.
< 10 $
serve up to three people, as well as open mic poetry. Grand Valley Hookah Lounge Flavors are less than $10 at GV Hookah Lounge (10745 48th Ave., Allendale). Every Wednesday and Saturday at 9 p.m. marks karaoke night. Laugh with friends and show off your inner rock star.
FITNESS Ada Bike Shop Group Rides Until the snow melts, bring your own bike and trainer to 597 Ada Dr. SE for free indoor spin classes every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Both locations (Ada Drive and 1311 Fulton St. SE.) host a free group ride during the week when the weather allows.
Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene
Bike Trails For some free fun and exercise, check out the many bike trails in West Michigan. For a longer ride, the White Pine Trail offers more than 93 fully paved miles of scenery through swamps, forests and towns. If 93 miles is about 90 miles too long for you, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry. There are plenty of places to pull over for a hot dog or some ice cream along the way. Other great routes include Reeds Lake Trail, Millennium Park Trails and Musketawa Trail. Free Yoga at Lululemon Located in East Grand Rapids (2213 Wealthy St. SE), this retailer offers a free Serenity Saturday hatha-vinyasa yoga class each week at noon with an instructor from a local yoga studio. The Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse Community Yoga Class Drop-in rates for this Sunday power vinyasa yoga class are only $5 at the Eastown location (1331 Lake Dr. SE). The class is offered from 7:30-8:30 p.m. and from 9-10 p.m. Be sure to arrive early to secure a space for your mat.
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Zumba Fitness Classes Take advantage of shaking your hips at a $6 Zumba class offered at Dog Story Theater (7 Jefferson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids) every Tuesday from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
The Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse Grand Rapids Running Club Races Grand Rapids Running Club offers several events each month for only $4 ($2 for members). Two- and four-mile prediction runs take place on April 6 at John Ball Park at 8:30 a.m. (registration at 8 a.m.). Group Runs at Striders Striders in Eastown (1551 Wealthy St. SE) offers three-to-six-mile group runs for free at 6 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday, while the Grandville (4045 Chicago Dr. SW) location hosts a group run at 6 p.m. each Tuesday. Ice Skating at Wings Stadium General admission is $5 per person, skate rental is $3 at Wings (3600 Vanrick Dr., Kalamazoo). Open skate hours are 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; Sunday 2-3:45 p.m.
NATURE Blandford Nature Center Your free admission to Blanford (1715 Hillburn Ave. SW, Grand Rapids) includes access to 143 acres of forest and wildlife, plus the wildlife education center, in addition to four miles of maintained trails. Rosy Mound Natural Area This preserved natural dune system features scenic views of Lake Michigan year round and more than 1,000 feet of stairs and paths along the dunes near Grand Haven, as well as educational signs about wildlife within the ecosystem. Climb to the top of the dune
Rock Climbing The Grand Valley State University Climbing Center (1 Campus Dr., Allendale) is free with a valid GVSU student I.D. but is also open to the public and costs $10 for a day pass. The Salvation Army Kroc Center Get a day pass for $7 and enjoy access to the aquatic center and pool/hot tub, two court gymnasium, cardio fitness machines, strength training machines, free weights, indoor track, climbing wall and game room (2500 S. Division Ave. SW, Grand Rapids).
Blandford Nature Center
for a marvelous view of the lake, or traverse the trail system through the forest to the beach below. W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary Paved trails running alongside Wintergreen Lake offer visitors views of native waterfowl and continue on through gamebird areas and bird of prey enclosures. Picnic areas at W.K. Kellogg (12685 E C Ave., Hickory Corners) provide a natural setting for dining with friends and loved ones. Adult admission is $4
SPORTS West Michigan White Caps April 4 marks the season opener against the Dayton Dragons at Fifth Third Ballpark (4500 West River Dr. NE, Comstock Park). Lawn seats are only $6 for the 6:30 p.m. game. The game falls on college night, so enjoy two hot dogs, a beer, a soda or a pretzel for just $2 and if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a college ID reserved seats are only $5.
MUSEUMS Air Zoo Offering year-round fun, the Air Zoo (6151 Portage Rd., Portage) has more than 50 rare and historic aircrafts as well as exhibits and educational activities. It also has a 3-D theater and flight-inspired amusement park type rides. General admission is $10.
Cheap Threads
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park It’s that time of year: the butterflies are blooming (until April 30 anyway). There’s more going on at the Gardens (1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids) than hatching chrysalises, like the Bernar Venet sculpture exhibit now through October, the Hanneke Beaumont exhibit until April 28, and the carnivorous plant house now through forever. That’s right, plants that eat things with their teeth (kind of). All for $9 with a student ID. Gerald R. Ford Museum This home-grown museum (303 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids) offers many permanent exhibits, including a slice of the Berlin Wall, a tribute to Betty Ford and an Oval Office replica, as well as occasional traveling exhibits. Visit the permanent 1976 Bicentennial exhibit for a trip back to the world of disco, punk and pet rocks, as well as Ford ‘76 campaign items. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for students with ID.
LBD Exchange
Photo: S. Niedzwiecki
DEAL:
Prevent a fashion faux pas for $15 with the Minimergency Kit for Her. Fix anything with 17 beauty and personal care essentials that fit into a palm-sized pouch. The women’s kit is a darling little deal with backups such as a mending kit, double-sided tape, stain remover, deodorant towelettes, earring backs and more. “I’m never organized enough to do that on my own. Buy it and toss in your purse,” says Jenny VanVeen, owner of Frances Jaye in Holland. Guys get one too for $13.
STEAL:
FOR REAL?!:
The “LBD” in LBD Exchange in Rockford stands for “little black dress,” and the store always has a selection on hand. You get a boutique experience sans high prices with superior service. Customers appreciate that “girlfriend to help them out,” said Assistant Store Manager Lisa Abbott. Believe it or not, the store has a wedding dress “worn to a wedding as a guest, never by a bride.” The traditional-style dress with gorgeous beadwork, lace and spaghetti straps retailed for $1,000 but is a bargain at $399.99. —Missy Black
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum One word: bubbles. Among other fun exhibits (like the Imagination Playground and the Open Wide pretend dentist’s office) children can hop inside a giant bubble of their own making. Admission is $7.50 for anyone over one year at the museum (11 Sheldon Ave. NE, Grand Rapids). Between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. every Thursday is family night, with admission lowered to just $1.50. Grand Rapids Public Museum Troll the streets of Grand Rapids circa 1890 or explore the natural habitats of Michigan at the Public Museum (272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids). Admission is $8, and don’t forget to take a ride on the carousel for an extra dollar before you leave. Holland Museum Explore Holland’s Dutch heritage as well as local maritime history and an illustrated timeline of the development of the City of Holland at this museum (31 W. 10th St.). Admission is $7 ($4 for students).
Muskegon Community College Planetarium Free showings of “Stars: The Powerhouses of the Universe” on April 1-11 and “Oasis in Space” April 16-25. Show times at the planetarium (221 S Quarterline Rd., Muskegon Township) are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. (MCC campus, room 135) Tri-Cities Historical Museum The Grand Haven Museum (200 Washington Ave.) highlights the communities of Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg. Admission is free and current exhibits include Ice Age Imperials, Fur Trading, and Michigan Logging. USS Silversides Submarine Museum Exhibits highlight USS Silversides, World War II, the Pearl Harbor attack, submarines, the Cold War, marine technology and Great Lakes shipping. The museum (1346 Bluff St., Muskegon) is currently showing a documentary about US involvement and submarine service during WWII. Admission is $6.
LITERARY Argos Book Shop Peruse the stacks for used books less than $10 at Argos (1405 Robinson Rd. SE, Grand Rapids), including hundreds of fiction and nonfiction titles. Book Bug Browse Book Bug (3019 Oakland Dr., Kalamazoo), a cozy independent bookstore, and see what deals you can find on a wide variety of bestsellers and indie releases, as well as music and movies. Redux Books Another Eastown used book store, Redux (1349 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids) specializes in hard-to-find and out-of-print books. Story Cafe The recently opened Story Cafe (444 Leonard St. NW, Grand Rapids) features baked goods from Holland’s deBoer Bakery and chocolate from Confections with Conviction in Kalamazoo. In addition to excellent sweet treats, soups, sandwiches and espresso, the
REVUEWM.COM | April 2013 |
Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule
You can always find jeans under $20 at 360° in Kalamazoo. The store also has an impressive collection of bags from status brands such as Coach, Kate Spade and Burberry from $40 up to $100. The steal of the moment is an adorable and appropriate for spring, J.Crew khaki trench coat for $26.95. Here, the beauty of shopping consignment means, “You can spend the same amount at the mall but you get three times the stuff,” Owner Amy Baird said.
Gilmore Car Museum One of the top five car museums in the U.S., Gilmore Car Museum (6865 Hickory Rd., Hickory Corners) houses 300 cars and motorcycles from the 1890s to the 1960s. $10 admission for adults, $9 for AAA members and groups.
John Ball Zoo Now through May 10, admission at John Ball Zoo (1300 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids) is only $5. Between May 11 and Sept. 15 entry is $8.50.
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e h T ap e e h C su Is
Free Family Fun Greenathon Earth Day Festival
The following events require zero dollars. So keep that wallet right in your jeans or purse. OK, you might incur some parking fees at the library or drop cash for popcorn at the movies, but for the most part, our free April event round up provides a group of activities sans cover charge. It feels good to say you took the kids out, had fun and still have as much moolah as when you left the house. It feels good to be free — with your children, your emotions and your time. This month’s lesson is in: zilch! By Missy Black
SPEED PAINTER MARTINA HAAN
Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene
Herrick District Library 300 South River Ave., Holland April 2, 2-5 p.m. Free! herrickdl.org, (616) 355-3100 Spring Break programming is here with a visit from speed painter Martina Haan. Her theme is Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar. “We try to be cutting edge,” said Youth Services Manager Molly Rios. “We have to keep it fresh with kids. We have to be the public place where everybody wants to go. We have to be relevant.” At no cost and for those small ones interested in art, this event featuring a beloved author’s work is all about transformation and children “won’t know what to expect until they see the finished
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product.” This live painting demonstration is a huge something for nothing (and speedy too). Also slated for the spring break slump is a Pete the Cat character visit on April 4 at 10 a.m.
being green can be useful and fun for all ages. The City of Portage Youth Advisory Committee, appointed by the city council of Portage, sponsors the event. The committee is made up of youths serving a one-year term, representing the voices of youths in the community and exposing them to local government.
GREENATHON EARTH DAY FESTIVAL Celery Flats 7335 Garden Lane, Portage April 27, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free! portagemi.gov, (269) 329-4512
Just bring your enthusiasm for being green as your ticket of admission to the Greenathon Earth Day Festival at Celery Flats. The event includes live music, games, activities and exhibits for children that provides education about environmental ideas to use at home and opportunities to volunteer for “green” causes. Kids are able to meet other individuals who are committed to a clean environment and all of this costs a big, whopping nothing. “Younger children really love getting their free tree,” says Sujay Dewan, chairperson of the Portage Youth Advisory Committee. “This event allows the youth to grasp the concepts of being green in the community.” Another big hit with the kids is Portage mascot, Mr. Crispy, a large animated piece of celery that entertains. A little education goes a long way and this celebration shows how
at the West Side Branch, April 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Madison Square Branch and another timeslot for April 5 is at 10:30 a.m. at the Ottawa Hills Branch. For kids 12 and under.
FREE SPRING MOVIES: PARANORMAN SPRING BREAK FUN: GEODES
Grand Rapids Public Library Van Belkum Branch, Grand Rapids 1563 Plainfield NE April 5, 2 p.m. Free! grpl.org, (616) 988-5410 Rough and tumble boys get permission to break something at the Grand Rapids Public Library. Join geologist Steve Tchozeski of Great Lakes GeoScience to learn about the mysteries of geodes. “Geodes are fascinating,” said Communications Manager Kristen Krueger-Corrado. “They look like a rock and you crack them open and there are beautiful crystals inside.” Participants will select a geode, break it open, explore inside and take it home with them. “You learn how they’re formed and how to find a geode when you’re on a walk.” This hands-on activity is a fun way to educate children about environmental science. Dates are also available April 2 at 2 p.m.
Grand Haven 9 17220 Hayes Street, Grand Haven April 20 & 21, 9 & 10 a.m. Free! gqti.com, (616) 844-7469
Pop in a movie and you can get some peace and quiet. Parents, am I right, or am I right? Round up your brood and take them to the Grand Haven 9 so the littles can catch a good show (while you secretly pin on Pinterest or sort through e-mails on your phone). This free movie service is provided “To get families to come in that might not be able to afford a movie,” said Manager Dusten VanZyll. “We want families to come in and enjoy a good adventure.” ParaNorman is an adorable, animated zombie comedy that even parents can appreciate. Other movie features include Hotel Transylvania on April 6 and 7, Pirates! Band of Misfits on April 13 and 14 and The Lorax on April 27 and 28. Tickets are first come, first serve so get them while you can because everyone loves movie time. n
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cafe holds a free creative writing group on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. and “Storytelling and Singing” Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
ECLECTIC Japanese Tea Ceremony On April 2 at noon, ARTbreak at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (314 S. Park St.) features sculptor and ceramicist Paul Flickinger, who worked in Japan and studied traditional customs. Flickinger will discuss the Japanese Tea Ceremony, including the ceremonial preparation involved and the presentation of “matcha” green tea. Admission to ARTbreak weekly events are free and includes coffee. Tulip Time Festival From May 4-11, experience all things Dutch in downtown Holland with one of the largest flower festivals in the United States. Watch traditional Dutch dances or wander through the arts and crafts fair or carnival. Perrigo Volksparade (May 8), Johnson Controls Kinderparade (May 9) and The GMB Muziekparade 2013 (May 11) parades will also take place as part of the festival, all starting at 2 p.m. and tickets are $5 for bleacher seats. Other events for $10 or less include Move to the Muziek at Park Theatre on May 5 at 2 p.m. and May 11 at 10 a.m. and Rock Camp Final Concert at Park Theatre on May 10 at 6 p.m.
Dr. Grins This month, every show at Dr. Grin’s is $10 (and only $5 for Thursday night shows). Comedians include Mo Mandel on April 4-6, who can regularly be seen on “Chelsea Lately” and his own half-hour special on Comedy Central. Josh Blue, winner of Last Comic Standing and known for using laughter to break down stereotypes, performs April 25-27. Other performers include Roy Wood Jr and Keith Alberstadt, who have appeared on David Letterman and Craig Ferguson’s talk shows. River City Improv River City Improv can be found at the Ladies Literary Club (61 Sheldon Blvd. SE, Grand Rapids) on April 6 and 20 at 7:33 p.m. for $10. Come prepared to contribute to the show, as their acts often require audience participation and mix improv comedy with skits, games and dance to create an entertainment experience that changes every time you see it. Shakespeare’s Pub Every Thursday at 9 p.m., Shakespeare’s Pub (241 E. Kalamazoo Ave. #100, Kalamazoo) hosts a free Open Mic Night featuring Southwest Michigan’s best amateur comedians.
COMEDY
Dog Story Theater The All-Star Comedy’s Great Lakes Tour stops at Dog Story Theater (7 Jefferson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids) on April 8 with shows at 7 and 9 p.m. for $10. The event features Josh Lawson, Zoltan Kaszas, Bijan Mostafavi and Michigan’s own Brandon Young, a graduate of Central Michigan University.
Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule
Czar’s 505 The first Thursday of every month at Czar’s 505 (505 Pleasant St., St. Joseph) is comedy night with a $5 cover. This month features comedians Michael Lais and Andy Beningo, followed by live music at the open mic night after the show.
Sunday Night Funnies The Sunday Night Funnies at Riverfront Hotel’s Landing Lounge (270 Ann St. NW, Grand Rapids) is a live, stand-up comedy show that features comedians from around the nation ready to hone their craft. Shows take place every Sunday at 8:30 p.m. and admission is free. For those who can’t get enough laughs, additional shows on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. in the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel (310 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids) can satisfy their hunger for humor. n
REVUEWM.COM | April 2013 |
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