Celebrate West Michigan!

The work of renowned artist Dale Chihuly will be the subject of a large-scale outdoor exhibition at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Monumental glass sculptures will be sited in 15 locations as diverse as the English Perennial Garden, Woodland Shade Garden, Children’s Garden, and Sculpture Park as well as several wetland areas and the great lawn fronting the landmark Tropical Conservatory. Chihuly designed the exhibition specifically to respond to the horticultural focus and natural conditions of each of the respective sites. Chihuly at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park: A New Eden celebrates the efforts of one the world’s foremost artists across the campus of one of the nation’s most unique cultural organizations. In addition to the exhibition, two permanent installations are on display: Gilded Champagne Gardens Chandelier in Meijer Gardens’ Atrium and the newly installed Lena’s Garden suspended from the ceiling of the Café.

$4.00 admission with free parking.  Rain or Shine. Every second Sunday from May through October, except  in September.

Vicksburg Farmers Market features a variety of fruit and vegetables with flower flats, hanging baskets, honey, and other tempting goodies.

$60 per person
Sunday evenings have just become a bit more exciting with samplings of local beer from Right Brain Brewery and Crusted Creations during your evening sail.

As one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes, the Manitou is a replica of an 1800s “coasting” cargo schooner. A traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, Manitou measures 114 feet in length with more than 3000 square feet of sail.

Through the generosity of Fred and Lena Meijer, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture
Park has assembled one of the world’s foremost collections of Modern and Contemporary sculpture. In honor of the Meijer legacy and in celebration of the namesake institution’s 15th anniversary, contemporary sculptors represented in the permanent collection will be displaying new work in this unique gallery exhibition. From Louise Bourgeois and Deborah Butterfield, to Mark di Suvero and Antony Gormley, to Claes Oldenburg and Tom Otterness, many artists have developed a special affinity for Meijer Gardens and the Meijers themselves. This exhibition individually examines the present endeavors of numerous iconic masters from across the contemporary scene and collectively commemorates the breadth and depth of the permanent collection developed with the support of Fred and Lena Meijer.

Abbott's Magic Company puts on a magic show at 1 pm every Saturday through Labor Day Weekend.

The best of our local farmers have to offer all you want in one place! From fruits and vegetables to baked goods & preserves, Fresh cut flowers and more. Come take a look, we’re sure you’ll find something you’ll love. Join us at the Pentwater Farmer’s Market on Mondays and/or Thursdays from 10 am to 2 pm June through September on the Village Green in Downtown Pentwater.

FSAM is West Michigan's only weekly arts and crafts market. Come down for fine art, good food, and great fun.

The Grand Rapids Children's Museum presents the premiere of a hands-on traveling exhibit based on the Curious George books and the new Curious George television series now on PBS Kids. Get up close with the most curious little monkey, Curious George, and follow his lead, engaging in math, science and engineering activities modeled after his own adventures.

Event: SUNDAYS- Live Music on the Porch!
Start Time: Sunday, June 20 at 1:30pm
End Time: Sunday, September 26 at 4:30pm
Where: Douglas Valley Tasting House
Description: It's that time of year again! Sunday June 20th we will start live music on the porch EVERY Sunday rain or shine! 1:30 - 4:30pm join us for wine tasting, a picnic and some great family fun!

Have kids? Pick up a ring of I Spy alphabet activity cards and let your little ones hunt for interesting and exotic artifacts in the Museum’s Collecting: A-Z exhibits. Free with paid general admission.

Free Carousel Rides, Discounted Adult Admission and Themed Daily Activities:

• Story Time Mondays
• Treasure Tuesdays
• Weird Wednesdays
• Behind the Scenes Thursdays
• Old-Fashioned Fridays
• Silly Game Saturdays

Our outstanding cast will take you through Johnny Cash's remarkable life, singing 38 of the musical legend's most memorable songs.

Art work displayed in Scidmore Park on Michigan Ave. in Three Rivers.

Between now and October 31st, the Petting Farm is FREE.  Lewis Farm Market & Petting Farm is open from 9 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday and 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday.  Come in and enjoy the animals, including: Alpacas (Oliver is the cutest!), donkey (see the new baby that was born on the farm in July), miniture ponies, wallabee, lambs, Jeffery the camel (he loves everybody!), goats, rabbits (the new babies should be out of their nest by the end of August), Zoe the Zebra, peacocks (if you're really lucky & very quiet you might get to see the new hatchlings!), Zebu (miniature cows) and of course, the cat. 

A seminal exhibition of paintings by El Paso, Texas-based artist Annabel Livermore, who spent her formative years in West Michigan. Comprised of 20 works whose visionary subjects arise from the artist’s “embellished memories” of the western region of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and the reverence she feels for the places and people surrounding Pickerel Lake, located between the cities of Fremont and Newaygo. Annabel Livermore is the alter ego of artist Jim Magee. Annabel, conceived as a retired librarian from Newaygo County who took up painting later in life.

What a scene - everything's green!

Join us for Celtic Summer 2010 at McGuire's Resort! Friday, August 27th - Monday, September 6th You KNOW we're quite proud of our Irish roots, so we've taken it upon ourselves to host 10 days of celebratin' - Irish-style! We're countin' on this inaugural celebration to grow into an annual "trad" here in Cadillac. We've planned plenty of activities and we're offerin' enough incentives to make your attendance a must!

Join us from August 27th to September 6th for Irish Happy hour on Guiness and Smithwick's, Lodging and Golf Packages, 1st Annual Irish Golf Scramble (8/27 - 8/30), LIVEMusic, Irish Market, Anniversary menu with Irish Stew, Irish Ribs, Steaks, Sandwiches and More! You know how much fun St. Paddy's day is. And you've probably hoisted a pint or two at a Half-Way to St Paddy's celebration. So what's one more Irish-themed celebration? It's a grand time and it's coming up soon at McGuire's Resort!

Rest easy with the Celtic Summer 2010 Package for Two, Ten or more! We don't want to put a limit on your celebratin' - but we want you safe above everything. So plan on making a stay out of it! Enjoy lodging in a Standard or King Room, dinner for two from our Anniversary Menu, Blackthorn Irish Band Concert tickets and entry into the Inaugural Irish Golf Outing - all for $161 plus tax! Add a Friday or Sunday night lodging for only $61 per night plus tax and receive a $25 hotel gift card from Expedia. You can also add 18 holes of golf with cart for only $19.49 on Friday or Sunday.

Inaugural Irish Golf Outing and concert tickets for Blackthorn! Our Inaugural Irish Golf Scramble is August 27 - 30 and is open to the first 20 teams only! Call 1-866-330-7184 ext. 610 to register. Registration fee is $79, which includes two Blackthorn Irish Band Concert Tickets (more on the band below). Registration deadline is August 15.

An Irish market not to miss! There just has to be a little Molly or Mike on your gift-giving list. Maybe an upcoming nuptial for which you'd like to purchase a unique gift ... On August 27, 28 and 29 you can take care of your gift giving with an Irish lilt when you shop for Irish novelties, collectables, baked goods and more at O'Brien's Irish Cottage. If you'd like to be a vendor for just $25, give us a call.

Don't miss Blackthorn in concert. Trad ... with a rockin' beat! Plan to join us Saturday, August 28 at Curly's Sports Pub for Blackthorn. Tickets are just $20 to see and hear Detroit's most popular Irish rock band as they grace the stage at McGuire's for Celtic Summer 2010. This is a concert you do not want to miss! What makes Blackthorn unique is their variety of tunes, tempos and textures. Each member of the four-man band plays multiple instruments, including wooden flute, accordion, tin whistle, five string banjo and more. Plus they sing great four-part harmony.

Just take St. Paddy's Day ... and multiply by 10! If THAT doesn't conjure up a celebration in your mind, you must be Scottish! See you at McGuire's Resort for 10 days of celebratin' Irish-style as we present Celtic Summer 2010!

Mike McGuire, GM McGuire's Resort PS: Remember always to drink responsibly. We want you back for Celtic Summer 2011!

Enjoy this film at the Riviera Theatre. Showtimes vary.

Enjoy this film at Riviera Theatre. Showtimes vary.

Starting in September and running through October, Lewis Farm Market will be donating $1 to the American Cancer Society for each wrist band sold when customers print & bring in our coupon (available on our website, as well as www.star108.com and www.107mus.com).  Other ACS fundraisers are planned, including our "Hope for Tomorrow" quilt & the "Ribbon of Hope" tree.

Arts & Crafts show, Lions Blub Bingo, VFW Chicken BBQ, Lumberjack & Chainsaw Carving Competitions, kids games, parade

The Trapeze is back!  By far one of the most exciting annual events sponsored by Solace Spa.  Each year many sessions sell out so make your plans today.

Trapeze-Experience lessons turn the flying trapeze into an inspirational metaphor for life in a fun and supportive environment. Whether you are 6 or 96, this once-in-a-lifetime experience will transform you and your relationship with life. Sign up for your two-hour workshop for only $75!  Space is limited.

Or upgrade to our spa package for $267 per person* which includes one night lodging in the Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa, breakfast the following morning, two-hour exhilarating Trapeze-Experience workshop, and your choice of one 50-minute spa treatment from our spectacular menu.
(Booking Code: TRAP)

"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by each experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face ... you must do the thing you think you cannot do." -Eleanor Roosevelt

For reservations and information please contact Solace Spa at 231-549-7946. 
For overnight lodging package please contact 800-GO-BOYNE (462-6963).

Session Dates and Times:
Thursday, 9/2:  6pm
Friday, 9/3:  3pm and 6pm
Saturday, 9/4:  10am, 3pm, and 6pm
Sunday, 9/5:  10am, 3pm, and 6pm       
Monday, 9/6:  10am, 3pm       

Trapeze Demonstration Show:
Come see our Trapeze professionals show you some of their skills on the flying trapeze.  They will soar through the air with the greatest of ease without the use of safety lines. You can see them execute a variety of tricks while swinging 30ft in the air.  As they catch each other and return back to the platform you will be amazed at the aerial acrobatics performed right in front of your eyes.  This 10 minute demonstration show is complimentary for all ages. 

Saturday, 9/4:  1pm
Sunday, 9/5:  1pm

Every Thursday and Friday enjoy the German cuisine. Traditional orginal recipes featuring:

• Swiss Steak
• Mettwurst
• Brats
• Sauerbraten
• Pork Schnitzel
• Red Cabbage
• Sauer Kraut
• German Potato Salad
• German Fries
• Salad Bar
• Bread Pudding

Only $9.95 Lunch and 10.95 Dinner

The event features traditional Greek foods, pastries and drinks, along with Greek and American entertainment featuring a Greek dance troupe and belly dancers. Children’s activities include games and carnival attractions.

This 16th annual event brings exhibitors from around the country to Harbert with untrained, visionary and folk art. The show, at the Judith Racht Gallery, begins Friday with a preview party from 6 - 9 pm and continues Saturday and Sunday (11am - 5 pm).

We will have a fun filled Labor Day Weekend.  Family games & activities, crafts, train rides, tie-dye, bike decorating and parade, movies & popcorn.

Enjoy a weekend of spiritual fun at Bair Lake Bible Camp.

Enjoy the summer along the riverfront every Friday with music, food and fun! Free picnic buffet with two drink purchases. Featuring The Big Al & John Brown Show.

Every Friday & Saturday night enjoy local live bands play in the Lounge. Food and Drink specials every night. One of the few Live Band locations in Grand Rapids.

3rd Annual Highland Dance Competition, Primary - Premier

When these two bad boys of rock get together, you can bet it will be a night to remember.

Join in the celebration and support area talented artists and artisans, while enjoying the wines of Hickory Creek in nearby Baroda.

Goldenrod, asters and more are expected to be in bloom when Michigan Audubon holds a Wildflower Walk at the Otis Farm Bird Sanctuary on Saturday, September 4 at 10:00 a.m. Volunteer naturalist Greg Nelson will lead participants on a 2-hour walk through Otis Sanctuary while he points out the many different species of wildflowers that grow on the Sanctuary property.

Registration for the walk is required and can be done by calling the Michigan Audubon office before Friday, September 3 at 517-886-9144. After 5:00 p.m. on the 3rd, registration can be done by calling the sanctuary at 269-948-5777. The program fee is $2 per person; Michigan Audubon members and children under the age of 12 can participate for free. The program will be cancelled in the event of rain.

Participants are requested to meet at the red barn on the sanctuary property. Recommended attire is long pants, good walking shoes, and a hat. Sunscreen and bug repellent is also recommended. Participants should bring a camera with them and a field guide if available.

Otis Farm Bird Sanctuary is located at 3560 Havens Road, approximately seven miles southwest of Hastings.

This flea market runs from 4 - 9 pm!  Free Parking, $4.00 admission per person.

A Boston Marathon qualifying event. Thanks to all the runners who made the first Beaver Island Marathon a great success -- with your suggestions, we are working and planning to make next year even better!

Annual sale of shade and sun tolerant plants, water plants and garden gift items at great prices.

Hosted by Kendall College of Art & Design’s Drawing Club, Vitamin D, teens can bring in their in-progress pieces for the Curiouser & Curiouser Art Contest and Vitamin D members will help them develop their ideas and artwork. Registration is limited to 15. Sign up online.

Join us at the Double JJ Resort Saturday nights all summer for our Summer Series Rodeo! The rodeo takes place at 8 pm, with enough ridin’, ropin’, and wranglin’ to please any cowboy or city slicker. Join us at the Back Forty before the rodeo at 5:30 for a tasty Pig Roast with all the fixins’. Buy a combo ticket, and enjoy a hayride from the Back Forty over to the Rodeo Arena.
Prices:
Combo Ticket: $14 Kids 12 & under, $20 Adults
Rodeo Only: $7 Kids 12 & under, $10 Adults
Pig Roast Only: $10 Kids 12 & under, $14 Adults

Covert Operations with Chester Brown & Barefoot Fred brings a mix of Rock N Roll to the Riviera Theatre.

Castle Farms is proud to host the annual Royal Craft Show in beautiful Charlevoix, Michigan on Labor Day Weekend. The grounds and buildings of Castle Farms will be the host to one of Michigan's most prestigious craft shows where thousands of visitors will attend this event. This craft show will feature only the finest arts and crafts that can be found and will be held in one of the most affluent areas in the state.

The Royal Craft Show hours are Saturday, 10am – 5pm, and Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm. Free parking with a $3.00 per person admission fee. Children under 12 are admitted free. Food is available at a nominal charge. Pets are not allowed.

Over 100 exhibits of original and unique arts and crafts along the Lake Huron waterfront.  Musicians, dancers, and jugglers add to the festivities.  Concessions available as well!

South Haven's scenic Stanley Johnston Park hosts over 250 exhibitors of fine arts and crafts. Interspersed are food booths with gourmet selections and other more casual fare.

Klines Resort hosts a Gospel Concert in the clubhouse

Informal fun singing audience's choice of favorite traditional hymns. See progress on restoration of The Original Old Rugged Cross Church. Free will offering to support restoration. Church is just east of the big M-51 curve in Pokagon, MI. Doors open at 5 pm for informal tours, singing begins at 6 pm.

Musical Lineup includes:

Douglas James Band (Country/Rock)
Lady Sunshine & the X Band (Blues)
Half Pint Jones (Funk/Jaxx/Rock)
Spur of the Moment (Jazz/Funk)
The Stimsonics with Art DeMulder (Rock N Roll)
Childrens games from 3-5pm
Food Vendors

Sunday night funnies feature many of West Michigan's best stand up comedians. Hosted by Brian B. Laughs begin at 8:30 pm. Enjoy The Great Music of Stagelight Entertainment and The Best Sinners in West MI.(6 - 8 pm) and music following Comedy.

Pancake Breakfast at Klines Resort.

Join thousands of walkers and make the five-mile trek across the Mighty Mackinac Bridge!  This annual event occurs only on Labor Day, the only day of the year pedestrians are allowed on the bridge.  Walkers begin in St. Ignace at the north end of the Bridge and walk south.  The walk is one-way, and bus transportation is available to return you to St. Ignace until 2:30 pm.

The walk begins at 7am.  You must begin walking by 11am.  No one will be permitted to start after 11am.

(Photo used courtesy of Mackinac Bridge Authority)

Tues. - Thurs., Sept. 7 - 9 at 7:30 pm (Ticket prices $32-$62)
Fri., Sept. 10 at 8 pm (Ticket prices $37-$67)
Sat., Sept. 11 at 2 pm & 8 pm (Ticket prices $37-$67)
Sun., Sept. 12 at 1 pm (Ticket prices $37-$67)
Sun., Sept. 12 at 6:30 pm (Ticket prices $32-$62)

Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices.

Enjoy bird watching and good coffee? Join a Birds and Beans walk at the MSU Kellogg Bird Sanctuary. These walks, designed for adults, will focus on seasonal birds visiting Wintergreen Lake and the surrounding wetlands and forests.

Upcoming Birds and Beans programs are Wednesday, Sept. 8 and Oct. 13. Attend the walks each month to learn new birds, sample amazing coffee and have interesting discussions. Birders of all skill levels are welcome. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair!

Following each walk, one of the four Birds and Beans© coffee roasts will be available to sample. Birds and Beans© is Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center certified coffee, meaning it’s “bird friendly.” Rather than being grown on cleared lands, this shade-grown coffee provides and protects habitat for many migratory birds, such as warblers, vireos and orioles. Birds and Beans© coffee is also USDA certified organic and is available for purchase at the Bird Sanctuary.

Sanctuary members may attend the Birds and Beans monthly walks for free. Cost for non-members is Sanctuary general admission, $4 for adults and $2 for senior citizens.

Pioneer-spirited guests will enjoy this annual event featuring one of mid-Michigan's largest parades, a championship rodeo, flea market, more than 250 arts and crafts exhibits, an old-fashioned saloon and more!

Motorcycle charitable event.

Hundreds of  collectors from across the country exhibit thier old flywheel engines and tractors at this show which is one of the largest in the state.  Flea market, equipment parades, tractor pulls, nightly entertainment and working displays are just a few of the events that are held during the four days of this family-friendly event. Admission is $6 per person. Children under 12 free with adult. Please - no dogs.

Flywheel Engines & Tractors!
Steam Traction Engines!
Outdoor Flea Market!
Entertainment!
Daily Parades!
Crafts!
Kids’ Activities!
Consignment Auction!
Delicious Steamed Corn!
Wo oden Nickel Gift Shop
South Haven Tractor Cruise!
John Dudley Magic Show!
Old Towne Display Area!
Valve Cover Races!
Demonstrations!
Bingo!
Blacksmith!
Tractor Pulls!
& much more!

Set-up for exhibitors & vendors starts Tuesday, Sept. 7.
Exhibitors camp free with their display.

Rustic camping available: $10 per night plus daily admission.
ADMISSION:
$6.00 for 12 and over.
THURSDAY IS SENIOR
CITIZENS' DAY:
$3.00 for those 62 and over.

This folksy musical will have you tapping your toes and clapping your hands to your favorite gospel songs.

Admission: $5.00 in Adv, $7.00 at the door

In celebration of the completion of the Crowne Plaza’s renovations, the public is invited to tour the hotel and visit with local businesses with their products and services on display. The Crowne has invited representatives from the Chamber to be on hand at this event following a ribbon cutting ceremony at 3:30pm. Visit the hotel anytime during the week of September 5-11 and enter your name to win prizes!

The Friends of the Felt Estate are proud to announce the ROCK THE FELT outdoor concert event taking place September 10-12, 2010. The ROCK THE FELT concert weekend will be located in Shore Acres Township Park - adjacent to the Felt Mansion and the Saugatuck Dunes State Park.

The first concert event on Friday, September 10 at 7pm features The Guess Who with special guest Flashback. On Saturday, September 11 the concert begins at 1pm and includes a number of national and local artists with headliner Pop Evil. Sunday, September 12 begins at 1pm and will host a variety of family friendly entertainment. More bands will be announced at a later date.


Packaged Ticket to include Fri/Sat: $35 General Admission / $60 VIP*

Friday Only: $20 General Admission / $35 VIP*

Saturday Only: $20 General Admission / $35 VIP*

Sunday Only: $10

*VIP includes access to VIP area next to stage, seating, exclusive VIP bar and restrooms.

In addition to an outstanding musical lineup, ROCK THE FELT is an eco-friendly event focusing on local businesses participation and minimal environmental impact. Local restaurants will provide a variety of food and local beverage distributors will provide adult beverages. I


Proceeds will benefit the Friends of the Felt Estate and be used to continue the restoration of this historic site. The Felt Estate is beautifully situated ten miles south of Holland (Michigan) and six miles north of Saugatuck, the Felt Estate was once the luxurious summer home and hobby of self-made millionaire and inventor Dorr E. Felt. The mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Michigan State Register of Historic Sites, retains the architectural beauty of a bygone era and offers a glimpse into the wealth and lifestyle of the Roaring 20s.

Onsite parking is available for $10 per car. ROCK THE FELT strongly encourages carpooling.

Facebook and Twitter keyword “RockTheFelt”.

Annual event that brings Street Rods to Kalamazoo from across the Nation. New this year, the event is now open to 1980 and earlier manufactured vehicles. Admission is $14, $5 for children ages 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. Hours: Friday & Saturday 8:30 am - 5 pm, Sunday 8:30 am - 2 pm.

A weekend of yoga, meditation, massage and life-coaching discussions which will awaken your spirit and your creativity and introduce you to a natural foods lifestyle. Relax and revitalize in an environment of fun and friendship as you ply the sparkling waters of Northern Michigan.

As one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes, the Manitou is a replica of an 1800s “coasting” cargo schooner. A traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, Manitou measures 114 feet in length with more than 3000 square feet of sail.

Cost $735 per person.

2010 Public Observation Nights
September 11 & 25...................... 8 pm - 10:30 pm
October 9 & 30 ............................ 7:30 pm - 10 pm

Starting times vary with the sunset and viewing takes place only when the sky is clear. If conditions are questionable, call 616.897.7065 or visit graaa.org.

Admission: $3 Adults, $2 Kids 17 & under

Harvest festivals are known throughout the world as a time to celebrate the main harvests of the region. At Lemon Creek, September yield’s an abundance of raspberries, pumpkins, apples and grapes. In celebration of this remarkable season, the Lemon family invites you to share in the merriment, with fine wine, live music and a classic British Car Show. Fun for the whole family, the Austin Healey Club of Northern Indiana will be showcasing their classic car show with an array of MG’s, Triumph’s Jaguars and Austin Healey’s. Festival events will include live music performed by returning rock-a-billy band, The Bel-Airs. Wine tasting will be included with the admission charge, along with a Lemon Creek wine glass. Hayrides will run periodically through the vineyards and a moonbounce will be available for the kids. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase amazing food provided by Outdoor Kitchen, including grilled food and the Harvest Festival’s famous corn on the cob. Lemon Creek Winery is located in the heart of South West Michigan’s wine country. Directions and more information about the wineries history, wine listings and specials along with future events may be found on the website. Harvest Festival Entrance $7.00 (Ages 20 and under free!) Includes Admission, Wine Glass and Tasting Tickets.

Come join the International Plastic Modelers Society during its 12th Annual Air Zoo Model Contest on Saturday, Sept. 11!

 Enjoy this comedy show at the Riviera Theatre.

Admission $6.00

Highlights: 200+ quilts on exhibit, 15 Vendors & demonstrations, Quilt Raffle, Country Store, Member Challenge and Food Court

Each year on the weekend after Labor Day, Marshall opens its doors to thousands of visitors. The visitors come to see 8 homes, 7 museums, 1 church and 1 business on the tour.

Admission $6.00
Enjoy over 200 quilts on exhibit, 15 vendors and demonstrations, quilt raffle, country store, member challenge and food court.

Those who have ever found themselves at Binder Park Zoo wondering what the animals eat, where they sleep or even what the savanna in Wild Africa looks like first thing in the morning are in luck. Inquisitive guests can take part in programs that not only answer these questions but also allow them first hand experience.

The Breakfast for the Animals program takes participants behind the scenes in the morning, before the zoo has opened. Small groups are taken to an area and given the opportunity to feed an animal. Breakfast for the Animals programs are scheduled for September 12 and October 3.

Pre-registration is required and space is limited so those interested in taking part will want to reserve their place soon.

Join us as we celebrate Grandparents at Lewis Farm Market on Sunday Sep 1th from noon to 4 pm.  Lots of details still in the works, but for starters, we've booked county music by Ashley Youngstrom (Free Music!) and we're giving away a ride of the Apple Express to each grandparent (with grandchild's ticket purchase).  Send in your favorite Grandparent story (1/2 sheet size limit) in these categories: Humor, Military, Serious or Love.

Antique tractors from west Michigan will putt in and out during Grandparents Day at Lewis Farm Market & Petting Farm. Come early for the best opportunity to see the most as they stop by on their travels.  Grandparents Day is from noon to 4 pm, but we're open from 9 am to 6 pm. 

This graphic first-person account of a little-remembered event in U.S. history tells the story of young soldier Godfrey Anderson’s experiences during the ill-fated 1918 military expedition against the Bolsheviks in the frozen reaches of northern Russia. As a member of the American “Polar Bears” medical corps, Anderson describes traveling by ship and train, setting up field hospitals in the vast Siberian wilderness, enduring many hardships, rubbing shoulders with Russian villagers, barely escaping from the Bolsheviks in a harrowing nighttime retreat by sleigh, and much more. His transparent narrative, laced with ironic humor, has an irresistible, wide-eyed quality to it. Historian Gordon Olson will set the geopolitical stage for Anderson’s war memoir, and recount Anderson’s story and the writing of his book. Free and open to the public.

Duff Goldman will appear at DeVos Performance Hall to share stories about his rise to fame and his hit show. Following his presentation, Goldman and his team will unveil Hospice of Michigan’s 30th birthday cake. Cake baked by Charm City Cakes will also be served to those in attendance at a reception, following Goldman’s presentation.

As early as 1892, Grand Rapids high schools have taken to the gridiron to battle in the game of football. Over the next few decades a tradition would be born—a tradition of autumn weekends at places such as South Field, Island Park, and Houseman Field, where teams like the Union Red Hawks, Catholic Central Cougars and others fought over the honor of being crowned champions. Star players including Gerald Ford, Terry Barr and George Andrie rallied the crowds. Drawn from the collection of the Grand Rapids Public Library, this exhibit explores the story of high school football in Grand Rapids. Free and open to the public.

Galleries in Three Oaks open their doors to share a variety of artist's creations. Artists open their studios to the public; the sidewalks become a stage for musicians and street performers.

Fri., Sept. 17: 5 pm – 9 pm
Sat., Sept. 18: 10 am – 4 pm

Ultimate bridal fashion shows, latest in bridal gowns & tuxedos, trend-setting floral design, honeymoon travel ideas, unique photography, health & beauty, sumptuous catering, reception halls, music & DJs, cookware & home ideas, finance options and limousine & transportation.

The Old Town BluesFest is a two-day FREE music festival that brings local, regional, and national acts to an audience of roughly 15,000 people from across Michigan and nearby states. BluesFest's music truly is living music, history in the making. Located in Lansing's historic Old Town and offering galleries, boutiques and vendors of ethnic food, arts and crafts.

Displays, demonstrations, games, silent auction, prizes and eight dealers in minerals, fossils and equipement.

Bicycle enthusiasts will enjoy this event.  For more details and reservations, go online or call.

This festival features three days of nonstop Irish music and Feis, an Irish dance competition.  More than 900 dancers ranging in age 4 to 50 are expected.  The festival also offers children's music and Irish Heritage sessions.  Irish vendors and a food and beverage tent add to the fun. 

Explore the great wine regions of the world with sommelier and restaurant proprietor Amanda Danielson. Each evening aboard Manitou we will discuss the winemaking histories and taste the varietals of different countries. Dinners will feature paired wines chosen by Amanda as a perfect complement to our meals.

As one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes, the Manitou is a replica of an 1800s “coasting” cargo schooner. A traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, Manitou measures 114 feet in length with more than 3000 square feet of sail.

Cost $685 per person.

On September 30, 1967 the first Festival of the Forks was celebrated and the tradition continues.  The Festival of the Forks is an annual reunion of current and former residents of the greater Albion area in celebration of the creativity and diversity of its people. The Festival's goals are to strengthen and promote unity, to offer fun activities for children, families and individuals, and to foster economic growth.

 The Punknecks perform acoustic punk-country music FREE at the Riviera Theatre 

The Coopersville Farm Museum will be filled with anything and everything to do with Fiber Arts. The Fiber Arts Festival is held during the annual exhibit of "Quilts & Their Stories" where there are more than 130 quilts on display. See demonstrations of many various fiber arts which may include any of the following: paper making, paper dolls, quilting, embroidery, felting, weaving, knitting, crocheting, fabric cards, twilling, tatting, scrapbooking, farbic collages, and more! Handcrafted items will also be available for purchase.

Area hospitals will be at Lewis Farm Market & Petting Farm during "Cancer Free Day" to increase awareness about breast cancer.  Memorial Medical Center will be here form 10 - 2 pm. They're doing two presentations:  11am on breast health "Signs & Symptoms" and at 1pm "Digital verse Analog Mammography".  Lakeshore Hospital of Shelby will bring an artificial breast with lumps (to aid in identifying benign verses cancerous tumors), a view box with images of breast cancer and brochures. Both will offer one-on-one discussions.  The event is free. 

"Cancer Free Day" because we're all working for the day when cancer doesn't exist.  Join us on Saturday Sep 18th.  Cancer survivors & patients receive a free arm band for access to all fall activities & the corn maze (excludes fruit flinger & cannons), today Sep 18th only, when you print & bring the coupon from our website or from www.star108.com or www.107mus.com. 

Country Musician Ashley Youngstrom will perform from 2pm to 4 pm. 

A portion of the proceeds from select bakery items goes to the American Cancer Society (ACS).  Make a $1 donation ACS & pin a pink bow on our "Ribbon of Hope" tree.

Buy sell or trade a variety of reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and other exotic pets. Admission: Adults $4, Children $2, Children under 6 free, Family Max - $15. Event held in Room A.

Offered in morning session from 9:30-11:30 am or afternoon session from 1-3 pm.

Brownies will experience a fun-filled introduction to space and have the opportunity to complete all of their requirements for their badges. They'll explore the history of space travel with a tour of the Michigan Space Science Center, create an astronaut suit and make an individual lunar space station constellation viewer!

Limited to the first 200 Brownies.

Visit the website to download a registration form.

Members of the Shelby High School band and others will play their high school fight song during the Annual Pie Eating Contest & Maze Race to encourage their team to eat faster and run quicker.  Come join the fun!  This event is FREE!

The Hermitage welcomes you to join them for Peace Day Observance

Spend a beautiful fall afternoon walking from the north pier to the south pier for this fund raising event.

The Old Rugged Cross Foundation presents an Old Fashioned Revival Meeting to celebrate how the 1913 debut of the hymn, The Old Rugged Cross, might have been conducted. Includes dedication of Church. Everyone welcome to this meaningful and uplifting event at The Old Rugged Cross Church in Pokagon, MI.

A fundraiser for the Al-Van Humane Society. 18 holes of golf with cart at HawksHead, range balls, prizes, Continental Breakfast, dinner buffet and awards ceremony.

Registration fee:$90.00
Dinner Buffet Only: $20.00
Child:$10.00

Our Annual Pie Eating Contest & Maze Race "pits" one area school basketball team against another for bragging rights on who ate the most the fastest and which school ran the maze quicker.

Join us for a day of fun! The contest is expected to start around 2 pm.

We're located on M-20 just 1/4 mile east of US-31 (exit 140).

Enjoy harness racing, midway, food vendors, and a week of family entertainment.

The GRPL Anime Club will be showing one Japanese Animation, or “anime” film each time we meet, along with enjoying refreshments. This month we will be showing His and Her Circumstances and Full Metal Panic: Fumoffu. For ages 11-18.

Travel & Adventure Cinema-"Southern Europe"

Tweens ages 11-14 can come and discuss the book of the month. This month we will be reading The Capture, the first book in the Guardians of Ga’Hoole series by Kathryn Lasky. Pizza and pop provided. Free and open to the public.

This evening is a chance to share healthy lifestyle habits with your children.  According to the American Medical Association, stress is a factor in more than 75 percent of illnesses today.  Start your youth out on the right foot to a long and joyous life.  Our beautiful salon is always open to guests of all ages.  This evening our exclusive spa, typically reserved for guests ages 16 and up will be opened to any guest age 6 or older (accompanied with their guardian).

A Spa Pass for Family Night is $5 per person (discounted from $25)
Spa Member Families are complimentary.

Evening spa pass includes a 30-minute family style yoga class at 7 p.m., a locker, robe, and access to the relaxation lounges, whirlpool, steam room and cedar sauna, indoor / outdoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

(Please bring bathing suit on family night for use of wet facilities, please call in advance to reserve space in yoga class)

Youth Spa and Salon Mini Treatments on Family Night:
15 minutes, $10 each
Massage (please wear loose fit clothing)
Facial
Hand Treatment
Foot Treatment
Hair Styling

A spa service charge of 18% will be added to all services.  Please contact Solace Spa at 231-549-7946 to make your appointment reservations and/or to reserve your space in the Family Night Yoga class.

Come celebrate the start of ArtPrize! Come to the library, register to vote, and mingle with the three artists who created the work on view on the grounds of the library. Light refreshments will be served. Free and open to the public.

The Public Museum is one of seven exhibition centers for ArtPrize 2010. We are looking for volunteers to help during this exciting, community-wide event. If interested, call Joyce at 929-1753.

Artwork inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass will be on display at the Main Library. Created by teens ages 13-18, anyone with a library card can vote for their favorite. The winner will be announced on October 9.

The ITA NAIA Midwest Singles and Doubles Tennis Championships
Male and Female Winners are the Midwest Representatives to the National Small College Championships. Approx 15-20 Colleges will be sending Men and Womens Players (approximately 300 Players)

This is the Regional Championships for all NAIA Schools in the Midwest. Men's and Women's singles and doubles champions will represent all midwest NAIA Schools in the National Small College Championships

Presented by Great Scrapbook Events. Shop a huge selection of scrapbook, stamping and papercraft products. Admission: $5, children are free. Hours: Friday 9 am - 6 pm, Saturday 10 am - 6 pm.

The U.S. Army’s Spirit of America is coming to Grand Rapids for the first time ever to pay tribute to the sacrifices and triumphs of the American Soldier. Grand Rapids will have the opportunity to celebrate the spirit, strength and history of our nation with more than 300 Soldiers from the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.

Watch as Soldiers bring history to life with this year’s Spirit of America performance. Told by today’s Soldiers, Spirit of America captures the true stories of those who have answered the call to duty for our nation.

Join White Lake for the annual Fall Fest, located in the North Mears Parking lot. Activities include food and beverage tents, live music, local food vendors, hayrides, bench press competition, and more.  Arts & Crafts Fair (Saturday only).

This FREE, live-action, patriotic show is like no other as it tells the history of America through the eyes of the American Soldier. While the show is FREE, tickets are needed and can be obtained early by contacting Van Andel Arena.

Fri., Sept. 24th at 10:30 am & 7:30 pm
Sat., Sept. 25th at 2 pm & 7:30 pm

During the show, Soldiers in period uniforms reenact key moments in the U.S. Army and American history. The reenactments include battle scenes with short periods of simulated gunfire, and performances by the Army’s elite ceremonial units.

Scarecrow making 101, Bring clothing for your new friend. Arts & Crafts, Movie & Popcorn, Train Rides, Site decorating, costume party,and  trick or treating of course.

Join us as we once again welcome renowned folk singer Lee Murdock aboard for four days of Great Lakes music, history, and lore.

As one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes, the Manitou is a replica of an 1800s “coasting” cargo schooner. A traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, Manitou measures 114 feet in length with more than 3000 square feet of sail.

Cost $685 per person.

Wicked Ranch, Rothbury’s newest and biggest haunted house attraction, will be creaking open its doors on September 24th! Wicked Ranch will be taking horror to a new level, offering scare-seekers the chance to experience Nightmare at the Bunkhouse, Town of Terror, and a mile-long hayride through the Wicked Woods.

The faint of heart are encouraged to enjoy the many alternative seasonal offerings at the Double JJ Resort to avoid being “scared to death,” such as the Yee-Haw for Fall festival taking place in the Back Forty from late September through early November.

Park2Park 1/2 Marathon is a fast, flat course following the shore of Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan. The Park2Park 5K run/walk is a woodsy route including a paved trail in Winstrom Park.

In 2009, Epps hosted the BET Hip Hop Awards, and also released his first comedy rap album called “Funny Bidness: Da Album.” The album features Snoop Dogg, Kid Rock and Slim Thug, to name a few. That year also marked the release of his comedy DVD “Funny Bidness.” Epps also starred opposite Mos Def and Donald Faison in the dark comedy, “Next Day Air,” from Summit Entertainment. He also made a hilarious cameo in the 2009 mega-hit “The Hangover.”

Take a guided walk of the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary grounds with knowledgeable volunteer interpreters and staff members. Guided walks are offered the fourth Saturday of each month – September 25 and October 23. Walks begin at 10 am and end at 11:30 am.

Guided walks will begin at the Sanctuary’s auditorium with a 15-minute introduction to the Sanctuary’s history and its connection to W.K. Kellogg and MSU’s Kellogg Biological Station. The walk will continue outside along the Sanctuary’s main path, which is stroller and handicap accessible, down to Wintergreen Lake. The mile-long walk will focus on the various birds found at the Sanctuary­ both residential and wild birds. Come dressed appropriately for the weather.

Sanctuary members may attend the tours for free. Cost for non-members is Sanctuary general admission, $4 for adults, $2 for senior citizens, and $1 for children (ages 2-12 years).

2010 Public Observation Nights
September  25............................. 8 pm - 10:30 pm
October 9 & 30 ............................ 7:30 pm - 10 pm

Starting times vary with the sunset and viewing takes place only when the sky is clear. If conditions are questionable, call 616.897.7065 or visit graaa.org.

Admission: $3 Adults, $2 Kids 17 & under

Runners and walkers of all ages and racing abilities join in a fun filled race at the beautiful 500 acre club just five miles from New Buffalo. You will run or walk through three different sporting clay courses where you will have the luxury of viewing ravine woodlands, wild flower patches, hay fields, enticing ponds and much more. All participants receive a Pheasant Trot t-shirt and 50% off a round of sporting clays. Prizes awarded for first and second place runners, in three categories.

She entertained you during our Annual Corn Roast and is making another appearance at the Farm before there's frost on the pumpkins.  Come join the fun from 2:30 - 4:30 today - whether you want to sing on stage or just sit back and enjoy the entertainment!

Come join us for this 30-minute presentation and learn all about space flights! Kids will even get a chance to build comets!

The Festival’s appealing combination of fine arts, traditional craft demonstrations, musical entertainment, hands-on art activities for kids (including pumpkin painting!) and great food, all in a historical park setting, make it a unique “arts event” and one of many favorite festivals in the state of Michigan. Artist applications are due by April 1.

This festivals appealing combinations of fine arts, traditional craft demonstrations, musical entertainment, hands-on art activities for kids (including pumpkin painting!) and great food, all in a historical park setting, make it a unique "arts event" and one of many favorite festivals in the state of Michigan. This festival serves 15 non-profits, churches and school groups as fundraisers for their organizations - all from the greater Lowell Community.

This recreational one-day 15, 25, 37, 50, 62, 75 or 100 mile bicycle tour takes bikers past the orchards, forests and wine country in and around Harbor Country. Presented by the Three Oaks Spokes Bicycle Club and the Three Oaks Bicycle History Museum.

Teens are invited to attend a screening of the blockbuster movie Iron Man 2. Bring a friend and see Iron Man 2 on the big screen. Pop and popcorn provided. Free and open to the public.

The GR Symphony will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of DeVos Performance Hall with V3, an exclusive symphonic experience honoring the vision for the arts in Grand Rapids.

Sponsored by the Caregiver Resource Network and the library, the Fall Caregiver Resource Information Series provides talks for caregivers on various topics. This month, Mike Faber from the Older Learner Center at Grand Rapids Community College will discuss Stress Management for Family Caregivers. Free and open to the public.

Celebrate the Harvest in downtown Fremont with a Parade, Antique tractor show, taste of Fremont event, Kid's celebration, pumpkin Roll and a BBQ competition and a beverage tent.

Great opportunity to meet other scrapbookers, relax, pamper yourself and enjoy great food!     

More details will follow.