Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show

It may be the shortest month, but February starts big when Michigan’s largest RV show rolls into DeVos Place. With a dozen dealers showing off over 100 RV lines, the Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show is the place to see everything from ultra-light RVs to luxurious motor homes. And, there’s nowhere better to shop all the latest camping equipment and RV accessories, or to explore hundreds of the best campgrounds and travel destinations – all under one roof!



“We’ve got more dealers, RVs, equipment and destinations than ever before,” says Show Producer Mike Wilbraham. “Much as we hate to do it, we’ve actually had to turn some exhibitors away this year because space is sold out.”



Wilbraham also says that for the first time, the show will include a full-service Secretary of State branch office. “If you buy an RV at the show, you can get it registered right there,” he says. “If you want to buy a Michigan Recreation Passport that will get you into state parks and recreation areas, you can get it here. Anything the Secretary of State offers will be available at the show.”



Plus, the show features free expert seminars on Full-Time and Extended RVing with Howard and Linda Payne, virtual RV tours of the US and Canada by award-winning cinematographer John Holod, and a fantastic vintage RV display by local collector Ken Faber.



Discount weekday adult admission coupons are available online at GrandRapidsRVShow.com and at participating Wendy's Restaurants. Admission is $8 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-14, and free for children ages 5 and under.


Dates & Times

-Thursday, February 2: 3 pm - 9:30pm

-Friday, February 3: Noon - 9:30pm

-Saturday, February 4: 10 am - 9:00pm

-Sunday, February 5: 11 am - 6pm

Friday, January 6, 2012

Simple as 1-2-3: Golf Show Headliner’s Tempo Tips for 2012

Although winter has set in, die hard golfers never stop thinking about their games. In fact, the off-season is often the ideal time for many to set new goals and even start some practice drills ahead of the upcoming golf season. That’s why the headliners for the 24th West Michigan Golf Show are offering some helpful tips ahead of their appearance on February 10-12 at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids. Today’s tips are courtesy of headliner John Novosel Jr., a past presenter for the PGA of Sweden, the PGA of Holland, and the World Golf Fitness Summit.
Representing Tour Tempo, the innovative teaching and technology company that stresses the scientifically proven importance of a consistent swing tempo, Novosel offers three basic tempo tips:


Tip #1: Use the 3:1 ratio on full swings

“In their full swing, Tour-level professionals’ tempos have three parts backswing to one part downswing,” says Novosel. “In other words, if the backswing takes .75 seconds, then the downswing should take .25 seconds. This is the 3:1 time ratio of backswing to downswing.” According to Novosel, most amateurs’ tempos are in the 4:1 category or worse.

Novosel adds: “An ideal way to check your tempo is by taking video of your swing. When viewed later in the editing mode, the video will show how many ‘frames’ it takes you on the backswing and then how many on the follow through. This comparison is your ratio.”



Tip #2: Use the 2:1 ratio for short game shots


“In our research,” says Novosel, “we discovered that short game shots use a 2:1 ratio of backswing to downswing. This includes half wedges, bunker shots, chip shots, and putting. So when golfers are not making full swings, they shouldn’t try to create too much speed by using a 3:1 ratio. These shots are about precision and the 2:1 ratio gives you that precision.”


Tip #3: Practice your tempo


Novosel says most golfers don’t practice tempo and when they do, they don’t work on the correct things. “Set aside time to work on just tempo,” says Novosel. “An easy way to do it correctly is to use (yes, a shameless plug) Tour Tempo. Tour Tempo’s three audio tones tell you when to start your swing, when to change directions at the top and, when you should be at impact. It’s simple and it works.” Novosel adds: “The bonus here is that once you learn the tones, you have a hard time forgetting them.”


Based outside Kansas City, KS, Novosel will traveling to Grand Rapids and provide free clinics on the Fidelity Seminar Stage at the Golf Show. He’ll be joined by Sea Island’s (GA.) Mike Shannon, a renowned putting guru and PGA teaching professional recently ranked by Golf Digest as #40 in its listing of “America’s 50 Best Teachers.”


Held continuously since 1989, the West Michigan Golf Show will attract thousands of Michigan golfers to hundreds of exhibits and will feature clinics, putting contests, junior golf instruction, swing analyzers and a “one stop” golf shopping opportunity with countless “golf show specials.” Sponsors include Treetops Resort, Fidelity Investments, Golf Association of Michigan, Boyne Resorts, Michigan PGA, Swan Lake Resort and Srixon. Several charities will benefit from their involvement with the show including Patriot Golf Day.


Produced by ShowSpan Inc., the West Michigan Golf Show’s hours are 4:00 pm-9:00 pm, Friday; 10:00 am-7:00 pm, Saturday; and 10:00 am-5:00 pm, Sunday. Tickets are $9 for adults, $4 for children ages 6-14, and children 5 and under are free. Tickets will be available at the door as well as online at www.westmichigangolfshow.com

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Million Dollar Quartet's Performance will Feature Special Appearance by Original Drummer, W.S. “Fluke” Holland

The national tour of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, playing DeVos Performance Hall as part of the Broadway Grand Rapids Fifth Third Bank Series, will feature a special appearance during the Wednesday, January 18th 7:30PM performance by original drummer W.S. “Fluke” Holland. The performance will also feature a post-show talk back for audience members.

W.S. “Fluke” Holland was the real life drummer during the famed 1956 “Million Dollar Quartet” recording session with Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins. W.S.’s musical career began in 1954 at Sun Records when he played drums for Carl Perkins band, including such hits as Blue Suede Shoes. After considering leaving the music business in 1960, W.S. received a call from Johnny Cash which then led to a long career as drummer in Cash’s Tennessee Three band. W.S. spent almost 40 years playing with Johnny Cash and played on most of his recordings including Folsom Prison Blues and Walk the Line among many others.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET will make its Grand Rapids premiere January 17-22, 2012 at DeVos Performance Hall as part of the Fifth Third Bank Broadway Grand Rapids Series. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketmaster.com.

On December 4, 1956, an auspicious twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley together. The place was Sun Records’ storefront studio in Memphis. The man who made it happen was Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” who discovered them all. The four young musicians united for the only time in their careers for an impromptu recording that has come to be known as one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll jam sessions of all time.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET brings that legendary night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations featuring an eclectic score of rock, gospel , R&B and country hits including; “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Matchbox,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “ Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Hound Dog,” and more.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is affordably priced from $27.50 and will perform 8 shows at DeVos Performance Hall from January 17-22, 2012. The performance schedule is Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30pm, Friday at 8:00pm, Saturday at 2:00pm & 8:00pm, and Sunday at 1:00pm & 6:30pm. Tickets are available at the DeVos Performance Hall box office, all Ticketmaster locations, www.Ticketmaster.com or via phone at 1-800-745-3000. Group discounts are available by calling 616-719-8050 or e-mail groups@bwaygr.org.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Jeffrey Zaslow Set to Appear at Winter Bridal Show

The Annual Winter Bridal Show of West Michigan is Jan. 20-21 at DeVos Place on Monroe Avenue in downtown Grand Rapids. All under one roof, a variety of exhibits will be on hand.

-Bridal Gowns and Tuxedos
-Linen & Chair Covers
-Candy / Dessert Buffets
-Reception Halls / Facilities
-Photography / Videography
-Floral Design / Decorators
-Catering
-Bridal Gift Registry
-Tanning & Spa
-Cooking Class /Newlywed
-DJ's and Live Music
-Cookware/ Kitchenware
-Photobooth
-Wedding Invitations/ Favors
-Limousine, Party Bus and Trolley
-Home Improvement & Décor
-Weight Loss & Healthcare
-Register to Win CASH and Prizes


Attendees will be engaged with a guest appearance by Jeffrey Zaslow, best selling Author. Meet, Greet and Book Signings, presenting "The Magic Room," a story about the love we wish for our daughters, featuring a Michigan Bridal Shop, managed by a fourth generation of daughters. Jeffrey Zaslow is the bestselling author of "The Girls From Ames", coauthor of "The Last Lecture" and "Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope", memoir of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.

Highlighting three Runway Fashion Shows, Becker's Bridal will showcase unique and fashion forward designs by Maggie Sottero, Allure Bridals and Enzoani; also presenting truly couture gowns by Vintage Rose, designed in England and exclusive to Michigan to Becker's. Runway fashion shows are Friday at 7 pm and Saturday at noon and 2 pm.

A WOW display dessert table will be featured, in a unique classy and modern fashion. Candy and Dessert Tables are the newest hip thing at weddings!

Premiering at this event will be Donna Sawyer Culinary Cooking Classes. Basics with a WOW! Donna's vision for teaching young couples cooking basics will come to life; offering basic cooking classes for newlyweds and adding a new twist to bridal showers.

While attending the Bridal Show, brides and their wedding party may participate in a contest with an opportunity to win Cash Prizes ..."Brides Just Want to Have Fun" photo shoot. Your vote will be counted! Seasons of Love will also be showcased and a featured area.

Saving time and money is often a priority for the engaged couple, and the area's leading bridal businesses will be there offering day-of-show specials. Plan on placing your deposit and confirming your dream wedding as calendars fill up quickly. "We encourage engaged couples to print a checklist off at www.GRBrides.com and bring them to the show. And don't forget the Groom's List!" says Denise Kolesar, President of Kohler Expos. Both the bridal show and the website are loaded with user-friendly information. Your careful planning can make it timeless, romantic and magical, so your wedding day will be an event to remember.

The bridal show will be open to the public from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21. Admission is $6 at the door. Discount coupons are available online by visiting website www.kohlerexpo.com.

Convenient underground parking is available for a minimal charge at the Michigan Street or Lyon Street entrance to DeVos Place. More information is available on the website at www.kohlerexpo.com.

Friday, December 9, 2011

Lower Prices and Added Talent Highlight Changes To Fred Hammond Gospel Performance

Local artists Greg Peacock Featuring The LifeMusic Crew, “Sunday’s Best” contestant Chase Stancle and dancer Laassah Taylor are all jumping on the Fred Hammond line-up for his performance at DeVos Performance Hall on December 30 at 7PM. But patrons won’t have to pay more to see an upgraded lineup.

To top it off, patrons can now gain admittance for lower prices than initially announced. Ticket prices are now $25 and $40. Tickets will go up $5 on the day of show. Groups of 10 or more receive $3 off $40 tickets and $2 off $25 tickets per ticket. Tickets can be purchased at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place box offices, Ticketmaster outlets including D&W stores and select Family Fare locations, ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 800-745-3000.

For three amazing decades, singer/songwriter/producer/musician Fred Hammond has been a Gospel music arbiter, consistently pushing the genre into to new melodic territory. The Detroit native ascended from bass-playing sideman for The Winans; to founding member of the trendsetting sextet Commissioned; to creating the further renowned ensemble Radical for Christ, to becoming a highly influential solo artist and producer in his own right.

From traditional gospel to funk, acoustic rock and even a cappella pieces, Fred Hammond’s new 15-song set pulls from a sprawling musical palette to mold his musical messages—something the Community Inclusion Group was looking forward to when collaborating with Marvin Sapp Ministries to bring Hammond over.

Convention/Arena Authority Operations Committee member and CAA Community Inclusion Group Chairperson, Darius Quinn states that the “group's number one priority this year is to increase the number of top level events and attractions for communities of color to enjoy within our facilities (Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place Convention Center and the DeVos Performance Hall). Working in conjunction with Marvin Sapp Ministries, helps us to get closer to meeting this goal by bringing to Grand Rapids one of the all time greatest gospel singers in Fred Hammond."

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

The Professional Men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., Iota Pi Chapter, will be having for the first time in Downtown Grand Rapids, a NEW YEAR EXTRAVAGANZA!!!!!!!....at DeVos Place 12/31/11.


Come join us as we celebrate “A New Year and New You” and bring in the New Year with the Men of Omega Psi Phi. We are doing it like it’s never been done before…..with Ballroom Lessons to whomever purchases a ticket and would want to learn Traditional or Urban Ballroom, Chicago Step, Modern Hustles, or Bop between the hours of 7PM to 9PM with special guests “Dance By Design”. At 9:00PM please come and enjoy Smoove and Sultry sounds played by WYGR’s very own DJ Z.

We want to give you the entire experience, so while dancing into the New Year, if you get a little hungry, please go and help yourself to the All-You-Can-Eat Buffets and Dessert Bars that will be available to EVERYONE!


To thank you all for coming out and helping us bring in the New Year, we will supply you and your special someone with a Complimentary Glass of Champagne to Toast in the New Year at 12:00AM!!!! But wait, it’s not over yet because DJ Z will continue to make sure that the party does not stop just because 2012 is here. He’s going to kick it up a notch and take us all HIGHER up until the clock strikes 2:00AM.

This will be the FIRST in Grand Rapids on this scale and you won’t want to miss it! So come out and get involved with the fun and we will be expecting to see your smiling face in 2012!!!!!

We also want to help you capture your time spent with us while we bring in the New Year with Professional Photographers and A Videographer that will be on-site for your convenience. So come in your best dress or suit or outfit and let us make it memorable for you!


Tickets are available at the DeVos Place box office, Tickemaster outlets, ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Million Dollar Quartet Coming to DeVos Performance Hall in January

The national tour of Million Dollar Quartet, the international smash hit musical inspired by the true story of four rock 'n' roll icons will make its Grand Rapids premiere January 17-22, 2012 at DeVos Performance Hall as part of the Fifth Third Bank Broadway Grand Rapids Series. Tickets are now on sale at ticketmaster.com

On December 4, 1956, an auspicious twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley together. The place was Sun Records' storefront studio in Memphis. The man who made it happen was Sam Phillips, the man who discovered them all. The four young musicians united for the only time in their careers for an impromptu recording that has come to be known as one of the greatest rock 'n' roll jam sessions of all time.

Million Dollar Quartet brings that legendary night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations featuring an eclectic score of rock, gospel, R&B and country hits.

The New York Times praises Million Dollar Quartet by saying, "A hit parade of favorites, providing the audience with blast after blast of sweet nostalgia." Echoing accolades come from the Associated Press as they describe the production as "Musical Fireworks! Million Dollar Quartet gets the cheering audience to its feet!"

It won a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical and received a Tony Award nomination for Best Musical and Best Book of a Musical. The show received an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical, a Drama Desk nomination for Outstanding Musical Revue and three Drama League nominations including Distinguished Production of a Musical and Distinguished Performance.

Million Dollar Quartet is affordably priced from $27.50 and will perform 8 shows at DeVos Performance Hall from January 17-22, 2012. The performance schedule is Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 PM, Friday at 8:00 PM, Saturday at 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM, and Sunday at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM. Tickets are available at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, all Ticketmaster locations, ticketmaster.com or via phone at 1-800-745-3000.