Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visitmuskegon.org

The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
Monday, February 12 @ 6:00 pm

Monday evenings at 6:00pm, January 29 – April 2, come to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, located at 1346 Bluff St. for The Vietnam War by Ken Burns! Each episode will be followed by a discussion. Admission is free with the purchase of museum admission. Members are free. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Planetarium Show: Faster than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm

January 16 – March 29 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, come to Carr-Fles Planetarium for “Faster than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight!” The impulse to strike out into the unknown, to see what’s over the horizon is as old as humanity. Today, a whole new horizon beckons. Scientists now believe that our galaxy is filled with solar systems, including up to 9 billion Sun-like stars with planets similar to Earth. Astronomers are racing to find habitable worlds, including any that might exist in the neighborhood of our Sun. But if we find one, how will we ever get there? How long will it take? What rocket designs might one day conquer the voids of space? Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight will dazzle audiences with virtual rides aboard spacecraft of the future. This is a 35-minute presentation. (The campus will be closed March 6 and March 8 for College Spring Break) For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Postcard Salon
February 1 – February 15

Don’t miss the “Postcard Salon” exhibition happening February 1 – 15 at the Muskegon Museum of Art! Over 1,400 cards from artists from West Michigan and beyond were on display last year, offering a huge range of materials and subject matter to enjoy. Now in its 12th year, the Postcard Salon reflects the Muskegon Museum of Art’s commitment to Michigan artists, a chance for people of all ages and skill levels to share their work with the public.

The exhibition is free to enter and all submitted cards are installed, making the show a true community endeavor. The exhibition is also a great opportunity to support the area arts community by purchasing an original work of art. Join them this year for the first ever juror awards, singling out four remarkable cards.

Beginning at 7:00pm on Thursday, February 15, all of the postcards on display in the Wiener Gallery will be for sale at $30 apiece. Don’t miss this opportunity to own an original artwork by your favorite regional artists. Buyers will be able to take the works directly from the walls and pay for them at several locations throughout the museum. Muskegon Museum of Art members will be given a five-minute head start beginning promptly at 6:55pm. The sale ends at 8:00pm, so don’t miss out! Memberships can be obtained in the Museum Gift Store, or in the gallery on the 15th. For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Movies @ the Library: Hidden Figures
Tuesday, February 13 at 5:30pm

Come to Hackley Public Library for the film “Hidden Figures” (127 mins. PG) as they celebrate Black History Month! This film portrays the true story of how NASA found untapped talent in a group of African-American female mathematicians that served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in U.S. history.“Movies @ the Library” happens first Tuesday of the month. Bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Brought to the community through a generous bequest from Bess Commodore. WUVS 103.7 “The Community Station” the Beat is the media sponsor.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Hockey Home Game
Wednesday, February 14 @ 7:00 pm       

Spend Wednesday February 14 (Valentine’s Day) at Lumberjacks home game. The puck drops at 7:15pm as the Jacks take on the Bloomington Thunder at the L.C. Walker Arena. Purchase tickets by calling 231-724-5225. GO JACKS!

Dining in the Dark
Wednesday, February 14 6:00pm – 9:00pm,

Come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for “Dining in the Dark,” an event that will heighten four of your five senses. Enjoy a fun, out-of-your comfort-zone experience while dining in a whole new way. Enjoy a delicious meal by Chef Jack Page, designed to stimulate the palate and challenge your sense of smell and taste. Of course, all of this will happen while eating completely in the dark! Wearing older clothing is encouraged. There is limited seating and this event will sell out! A cash bar will be available with Happy Hour from 6:00pm – 7:00pm. Dinner begins at 7:00pm. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. Please indicate any restrictions by emailing ann.meisch@shorelinecity.com. Tickets are $50 and available through www.eventbrite.com. For more information, call (231) 722-3251.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Free Thursday Evening Tours
Thursdays @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Every Thursday from 4:00pm – 8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a free tour guided by MMA docents, compliments of Meijer! Call 231-720-2570.

Learn to Luge Weekend
Friday – Sunday @ 6:00 pm

Every Friday – Sunday at 6:00pm (weather permitting), you can learn to luge at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, offering one of only four publicly accessible luge tracks in the United States! Although shorter in overall length than the Olympic tracks in New York and Salt Lake City, the Muskegon Luge track provides an Olympic thrill with the safety of the participant in mind. The track was designed by three-time Olympian Frank Masley and consists of six curves and two starting areas. For more information, call 1-877-TRY-LUGE or visit the website below to make reservations.

Safe & Easy to Learn:

Safety is the number one priority when teaching new sliders or conducting races with seasoned sliders. All participants must be at least 8 years old at the time of their session. Participants are outfitted with elbow pads, a helmet and a well-maintained luge sled. An instructor carefully goes over each part of the sled with a beginning slider and teaches easy to learn methods of steering the sled. Over three decades, the program has instructed thousands of sliders from age 8 to 80 to safely and successfully luge. While luge is referred to the fastest sport on ice, this track is designed for the novice slider at slower speeds than an Olympic track, where sliders can reach speeds of 90+ mph. The top speeds at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex track are approximately 30 mph on a “good ice” day although to most new sliders it still feels like 90 mph!

Get Some Physical Activity in the Winter:

The sleds weigh between 25-40 lbs. and are transported up a flight of stairs to the top of the luge track by human power…you! Small children will most likely need adult help to get their sled back up the hill. If you have heart troubles or health issues that may be complicated by climbing stairs or participating in adrenaline pumping outdoor thrill sports, this activity may not be recommended.

What to Expect:

The size of each session is limited, so participants can expect to get 3-6 runs depending on weather conditions and efficiency of the group and personal pace. The first 20 minutes of the session you will receive instruction from an experienced luge coach about safety and equipment. During free sliding time, coaches will be positioned along the track to give you instruction throughout the session. The last 15 minutes of each session is set aside for participant certificates and a medals ceremony.

A Raisin in the Sun
Friday, February 16- March 3 @ 7:00 pm – March 3 @ 7:00 pm

Come to the Beardsley Theater for “A Raisin in the Sun,” presented by the Muskegon Civic Theatre! Set on Chicago’s South Side, the plot revolves around the divergent dreams and conflicts within three generations of the Younger family: son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, his sister Beneatha, his son Travis, and matriarch Lena. When her deceased husband’s insurance money comes through, Mama Lena dreams of moving to a new home in a better neighborhood in Chicago. Walter Lee, a chauffeur, has other plans: buying a liquor store and being his own man. Beneatha dreams of medical school. The tensions and prejudice they face form this seminal American drama. The Younger family’s heroic struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration. For more information, call 231-727-8001.

Dancing with the Local Stars 2018
Friday, February 16- Saturday 17 & Feb 22-24

Muskegon’s highly popular charity event, Dancing with the Local Stars, is back for its 10th star-studded year and accepting applications from local food pantries and food programs.The event, produced by the Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce, benefits food pantries and food programs in Muskegon, upper Ottawa and lower Oceana counties. The first nine events enabled WDCC to donate more than $755,000 to those food-giving organizations thanks to generous community members and business leaders. Traditionally, Dancing with the Local Stars pairs local dignitaries, business leaders and people of interest with local dance professionals in four performances. However, this year’s event will feature more than 60 returning cast members in nine dance teams with 11 professional dancers in six performances happening February 16-17 and February 22-24, at the Holiday Inn & Conference Center Downtown Muskegon. To apply for funds from the event, food pantries and food programs should download the WDCC Donation Request Form found under the “Quick Links” on the home page at www.womensdivision.org. Completed applications must be submitted by January 15, 2018 to Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce, Ways & Means Committee, P.O. Box 1665, Muskegon, MI 49443. WDCC will inform donation recipients in April after the event.

Wine Away the Winter Blues
Friday, February 16 @ 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Come to SE4SONS and “Wine Away the Winter Blues,” featuring the Rick Hicks Band. Tickets are $20 per person and include four hours of live music, five 2 oz. pours and light appetizers. Se4sons is located in the Muskegon Country Club, 2801 Lakeshore Dr. This is open to the public. Join them for dinner before, during or after at SE4SONS Gastropub. Be sure to make your reservations early by calling 231-759-3405.

Free Fishing Weekend
Saturday, February 17 – February 18

Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekends: An annual tradition. Two days twice a year, families and friends can enjoy one of Michigan’s premiere outdoor activities, Michigan Fishing, for FREE!

All fishing license fees will be waived for two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes’ waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations will still apply. For many, the annual Free Fishing Weekend has become a tradition – a time to get together and have some fishing fun. While some may find time to reflect while fishing, there are no limits to variations on a great theme!

Pierogis and Dumplings with Chef Char
Saturday, February 17 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

You’re invited to Kitchen 242 for the culinary class, “Pierogis and Dumplings with Chef Char!” In this class, you’ll work with two similar types of dough to make a classic American comfort food and a traditional Polish treat. Pierogis will be constructed and stuffed with an assortment of fillings before cooked or prepared for your freezer. Fluffy dumplings will also be prepared to make a hearty kettle of chicken and dumplings to try in class or take home. Sign up for classes at Eventbrite.com or call 231-769-2202 for more information. The cost is $40.

Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery Special
Saturday, February 17 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Bring your sweetie to the Back Alley Comedy Club, 1531 W. Sherman Blvd. (in Sherman Bowling Center) for the Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery Special! Your evening begins with a delicious dinner catered by Ryke’s, then it’s Clue style goodness that happens right in front of your table. The moment you walk through the door you will be immersed in a thrilling murder mystery experience, mingling with crazy characters and shady suspects in a game of murder you get to play! As the night continues you will get to interrogate the suspects, gather the clues, and work with your team to help their mystery experts crack the case before the killer gets away! Tickets are $40 when at Sherman Bowling Center or $42 when purchased online. Pre-Show drinks and mingling begin at 7:00pm with dinner at 7:30pm. The show will begin at 8:00pm. For more information, call (231) 755-1258 or visit the website below.

Indoor Farmers’ Market
Saturday @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

The Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to come inside their warm barn and shop this winter! They’re open every Saturday from 9:00am – 2:00pm, November – April. They will be closed Saturday, December 30. For more information, call (231) 722-3251.

Spring Film Fest
Sunday, February 18 @ 2:00 pm

Every Sunday at 2:00pm, February 11 – March 25, come to the Harbor Theater, 1937 Lakeshore Dr. in Lakeside for the Spring Film Fest to benefit Muskegon’s historic military vessels! Tickets are only $6. For more information, call (231) 375-5228. Today you will view “African Queen

Winners and Winds
Sunday, February 18 @ 4:00 pm    

Come to the Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave. for “Winners and Winds,” presented by the West Michigan Concert Winds! The Winds will honor senior solo scholarship recipients, as well as share the stage with two area high school band members and their conductor. Tickets are $12 for adults and students. Children under 18 are free with a ticketed adult. For more information, call 231-727-8001.

Authentic African Cuisine with Chef Damon
Sunday, February 18 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm      

February is African Heritage Month! Sunday, February 18 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market, 242 W. Western Ave. will celebrate by exploring the many essences of authentic African Cuisine and prepare a four course meal that you will sit and enjoy at the end of class. This four course meal will utilize local, seasonal market ingredients. The cost is $50. For more information, call (231) 769-2202. The Menu: •Callaloo •Shrimp Piri Piri, •Lamb Curry & Yellow Rice •Banana Fritters & Pure Honey

The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
Monday, February 19 @ 6:00 pm

Come to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, 1346 Bluff St. for The Vietnam War by Ken Burns! This film will be followed by a discussion. Admission is free with the purchase of museum admission. Members are free. For more information, call 231-755-1230

The Ebony Road Players: The Meeting
Monday, February 19 @ 7:00 pm   

The Norton Shores Library, 705 Seminole Rd., hosts The Ebony Road Players as they perform excerpts from the play “The Meeting.” This is a fascinating and eloquent play by Jeff Stetson that depicts the supposed meeting of two of the most important men of modern times: Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther. Differing in their philosophies, but alike in their mutual respect, the two men debate their varying approaches to the same grave social problems, both prepared to die for their beliefs but neither aware of how soon their assassins’ bullets await them. No registration or tickets required.

This production is designed to tie in with “X: A Novel,” the 2017-2018 Great Michigan Read title. The Great Michigan Read is intended for young adults to senior citizens, with broad goals of making literature more accessible and appealing while also encouraging residents to learn more about our state and individual identities. Copies of “X: A Novel” are available at the Library to check out now while supplies last.

This program, funded by the Friends of the Norton Shores Library and the Almeda Boulton Memorial Fund of the Community Foundation of Muskegon County, is free and open to the public with no registration required.   For additional information, contact Alison Purgiel, lead librarian, at 231-780-8844 or apurgiel@madl.org .

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