MUSKEGON, MI – The 4th Annual Winter Lecture Series is returning to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum beginning Monday, February 22, 2016.

The series began in February 2013 as a college class taught by Muskegon Community College instructors George Maniates and Kurt Troutman.  They had the vision to teach today’s students by combining classroom studies with a museum filled with WWII artifacts and introducing them to WWII veterans who lived what the students were learning.  Community members were invited to join.  They didn’t expect much of a turnout from the area, but the response has been overwhelming.  The community “students” couldn’t get enough and have been returning to the museum every year since for this exciting continuing education opportunity.

This wonderful series, which was featured last fall by an article in the New York Times, is ready to kick off the new semester on WWII, but with a little bit of a twist.  After conversations with a couple of focus groups, the lecture series will not only feature presentations on WWII, but it will also expand to cover other American military campaigns.

The USS Silversides Submarine Museum is proud to have such strong support from our local residents which allows us to continue to share our mission of honoring our military heroes through education with all generations.  We hope you will join us this year.  It will be a tremendous way to enrich your life and your mind and, we promise, no homework!  See you February 22nd.

Here’s the complete lecture schedule, listed chronologically:

Feb. 22: Horse Soldiers:  An extraordinary story of a band of US soldiers who rode to victory in Afghanistan.

Horse soldiers is the dramatic account of a small band of Special Forces soldiers who secretly entered Afghanistan following 9/11 and rode to war on horses against the Taliban.  Adventurist and author Doug Stanton is the featured speaker.

Feb. 29: Vietnam:  Wrong Place, Wrong War

From the ‘Best and the Brightest’ to the fall of Saigon this is the story of America’s most controversial war – Vietnam.  Featured speaker is Lt. Col. Ron Janowski (Ret.), US Army, Instructor Junior ROTC.

March 7: 6 Months in 1945 AND Muskegon’s Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy – Clarence Zylman

Part One:  From Yalta to Potsdam. Part Two:  Raised in Muskegon, trained on the streets of Chicago, a special trumpet player boogied his way into the hearts of our soldiers.  Featured speakers are Muskegon Community College Historians George Maniates and Kurt Troutman.

March 14: Just War Theory in the 21st Century

Using Just War Theory to evaluate the morality of America’s military involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq since 9/11. Featured speaker is Dr. Roger Durham, Professor of Political Science, Aquinas College.

March 21: How do we Memorialize War through Art?

Over the last 150 years, we have sought to honor our veterans and commemorate events of national significance through art, however, some artworks were not initially embraced by the public and controversy swirled around them.  The featured speaker is Tim Norris, Art Historian, Muskegon Community College.

March 28: Endurance – The Stories of our Korean War Veterans

Based on interviews with hundreds of Korean War veterans, the presentation Endurance offers insights from those veterans on the Korean War.  Featured speaker is Lynnita Brown, Korean War Educator Project.
April 4: Live from the Front, byline Ernie Pyle

This play celebrates the inner struggle of beloved war correspondent Ernie Pyle.
Performed by Dr. Rick Plummer, Executive Director, Mason County Historical Society.

April 11: Franklin D. Roosevelt – Paradox of Power

A lecture that traces FDR’s 12 years in office from the Great Depression in the 1930s through dealing with a two-front war in the 1940s.  Featured speaker is Gleaves Whitney, Director of Grand Valley State University’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies.

Admission to the World War II Lecture Series can be had by purchasing an annual membership through the USS Silversides Submarine Museum or paying a $7 admission fee to attend any one lecture.

For more information on the Lecture Series, visit silversidesmuseum.org or call 231-755-1230.

 Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

02/08/2016 – 02/12/16 2016 Global Awareness Festival
‎Muskegon Community College’s 17th Annual Global Awareness Festival on February 8-12 will focus on Latin America, a region located in the western hemisphere between the southern boundary of the U.S. in the north and Antarctica in the south.

Each year, the Global Awareness Festival highlights a different geographic area of the world. The College hosts a series of activities, lectures and other events to bring awareness to that region’s population, culture, cuisine and political issues. All Global Awareness Festival events are free. For more information, contact Papa N’jai at (231) 777-0693 or by e-mail at papa.njai@muskegoncc.edu

02/09/2016 – Sewing Clinic: Quilts
As part of their Black History Month Celebration, Hackley Public Library invites you to a quilt sewing clinic with local seamstress Ozetta Aaron.  She will present an introduction to quilting.  Participants should have a basic knowledge of sewing.  Class size is limited, so call 231-722-7226 to sign up or for more information. Sewing machines will be provided.

02/09/2016 – A Tale of Two Submarines
Tuesday, February 9 at 6:30pm, come to Walker Memorial Library for “USS Silversides:  A Tale of Two Submarines!”  Frank P. Marczak, Director of the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, will give a presentation about the many successes of the USS Silversides as well as the loss of the USS Flier.  In words, video, and pictures, he will tell the story of Ensign Alvin Jacobson, a Grand Haven native and one of eight men who survived the sinking of the USS Flier in 1944.  For more information, call 231-744-6080.

02/04/2016 – 02/18.16 Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale
February 4 – 18, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale! The MMA’s popular Postcard Salon returns in 2016 with the opportunity to view hundreds of small-scale artworks by artists throughout the region. The short exhibition ends with a free Postcard Salon reception and sale on February 18. The reception starts at 5:30pm with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar. Starting at 7:00pm that night, guests can buy the artworks for $30 each. The Postcard Salon is sponsored by G&L Greek Chili Dogs and WGVU Public Media.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/11/2016 – Brown Bag Film: All of Me – The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert
‎February 11 at 12:15pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Brown Bag Film, “All of Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert.”  (78 mins.) In this documentary, Winfred Rembert reflects on his life in the segregated south and how his life and art unfolded together. He works through memories and records them by tooling images on leather and then painting them with dye. The work is moving not only in emotion, but in rhythm, line, and movement. Brown Bag Films are free and sponsored by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/11/2016 – Ladies Pink Night Out!
‎Watch Us Go PINK! is your chance to embrace fun throughout Muskegon County while you support a worthy cause. For the entire month of February 2016, you’ll find packages at select Muskegon County hotels, as well as specials at local retailers and restaurants, in an effort to raise funds to support Susan G. Komen® efforts in West Michigan and specifically, Muskegon County. From 5:00 – 9:00pm each Thursday, come to The Lake House Waterfront Grille for “Ladies Pink Night Out!”  Bring your sister, mother, grandma, and lady friends and come have a night out while celebrating survivors, fighters and just having fun with your ladies! Happy Hour Food and Drink Specials will be available! Wear Pink!  Call 231-722-4461 for more information.

02/11/2016 – Girl’s Night Out: Wine and Chocolate with Chef Char Morse
‎Enjoy wine, chocolate and your best friends at Kitchen 242, Thursday, February 11 from 6:00-8:00pm! “Girl’s Night Out: Wine and Chocolate with Chef Char Morse” will be a fun night working with simple, decadent dessert recipes paired with outstanding local wines.  Learn the basics of tempering chocolate, how to make homemade caramel and see exactly what goes into making a triple chocolate truffle.  Enjoy the desserts paired with samples of wine while learning new things in the kitchen, located within the Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This is an adult’s only class with limited seating, so reserve your spot asap.

02/11/2016 – An Evening with Winfred Rembert
February 11 at 6:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “An Evening with Winfred Rembert.” Enjoy a special evening with Winfred Rembert, one of the newest artists in the collection of the Muskegon Museum of Art with Chain Gang Picking Cotton #2, and Vivian Ducat, the creator of the film, All Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert. Rembert, a dynamic artist with a true talent and passion for his work, will talk about his life and art. He will be joined by Vivian Ducat, who worked with him initially to create a short eight-minute film that ultimately became a feature-length documentary of Rembert’s family, his trials, and his artwork. Rembert and Ducat will discuss the film with the audience after the film. This event is free and is part of the MMA’s Finding Common Ground program series, made possible by the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Arts.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/12/2016 – 02/14/2016 West MI Youth Wintersportsfest
The West Michigan Youth Wintersportsfest is comprised of thirteen events from February 12-14 at various sites within the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex.  You can snowshoe, figure skate, ice speedskate, inline speedskate, luge, cross country ski, do gymnastics, competitive cheer, biathlon, hockey, bowling, archery, rifle marksmanship and more!  For more information, call Mark Jastrzembski at 231-828-4627.

02/12/2016 – Alley Door Club
The Alley Door has a new twist for its 11th year; “Sip, Savor & Shimmy!” tasting events!  Each Alley Door show is paired up with a local Brewery, Winery or Mill, so come out and enjoy a great night in downtown Muskegon!  February 12, it’s live music from the West Side Soul Surfers! The brewery this week is Pigeon Hill. Tickets are $7 in advance or at the door.  A cash bar available with valid I.D. required.   Tables may be reserved for $55.00 for a 4-top (includes 4 admission tickets) / $80.00 for an 8-top (includes 8 admission tickets).  Limit of 2 4-tops and 2 8-tops reserved for each performance, sold on a first come basis.  For more information, visit frauenthal.org.

02/12/2016 – 02/13/16 Bling Thing
Friday, February 12 from 5:00-8:00pm and Saturday, 10:00am-2:00pm, come to the Century Club for the “Bling Thing”, a fundraising event for Friends of Hackley Public Library.  This 4^th annual sale will offer jewelry, purses, scarves, hats, belts, clothing, sparkly home decor items and things with “bling.” Friday is the Early Sale Party with wine, chocolate and first dibs on the goodies with an entry fee of $10. Saturday, entry is free, and the Creative Fringe will be offering a variety of DIY jewelry projects during the Saturday sale. You will be able to make bracelets, necklaces or earrings using a variety of glass beads and metal charms.  No experience is necessary because they will do all the finishing for you!  Prices start at just $6.99.  Bigby Coffee will provide free coffee and hot chocolate!

02/13/2016 – PEAK Training Academy Camp
PEAK Training Academy is excited to bring Leea Murphy and Kendall Fletcher to Muskegon on February 13 for a Co-Ed U 11- U13 clinic in the morning and a Girls High School clinic in the afternoon at the L.C. Walker Arena.  Leea Murphy played at a forward and helped the University of North Carolina to a 2003 National Title and Kendall Fletcher another Tar Heel and currently a center back with the Seattle Reign will bring their experience to Muskegon for this 1 day camp.

The clinic will be held at the LC Walker Area and that night the Muskegon Risers will play their second indoor match. Online registration is available at http://www.trainatpeak.com/. Questions call Jeff Lohman, PEAK Training Academy at (231) 327-7954 or e-mail at jeff.peakacademy@gmail.com

02/13/2016 – Beginners Baking for Kids: Mini Cheesecakes With Chef Char
‎Saturday, February 13 from 9:00am-11:00am, it’s Beginning Baking for Kids – Mini Cheesecakes with Chef Char at Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market!  This class will focus on how to construct and bake a successful cheesecake with emphasis on variety and creativity in flavors, including a New York style cheesecake with fruit topping, a triple chocolate cheesecake, a pecan turtle cheesecake and a pumpkin marble cheesecake.  You will make a full size cheesecake in class to share and enjoy during class.  Then you come up with your own unique combinations of flavors and garnish for mini cheesecakes to take home to share with your family.  The cost is $25 for ages 7-13. Register soon, class size is limited to 20.

02/13/2016 – Walk for Warmth
February 13 from 9:00am-11:00am, come to the Lakes Mall for the “Walk for Warmth!”  100% of all proceeds benefit our friends and neighbors in Muskegon and Oceana Counties who are facing heating emergencies and utility shut-off. Walk for Warmth funds Emergency Utility Assistance through MOCAP, a Community Action Agency. Funds are used throughout the year, but many people associate utility emergencies with the cold winter months.

The event is non-competitive and includes entertainment along the walk course, is family friendly, and includes free gifts.  Registration will be Saturday, February 13 from 8:30am – 9:00am the day of the walk. Registration forms will be available on-site as well as being available on the MOCAP Facebook page. For more information please contact Todd Rasmussen or Jamie Wasilchenko at 231-725-9499.

02/13/2016 – Art on Canvas
‎Saturday, February 13 at 10:00am, come to the Walker Memorial Library for “Art on Canvas!”  Join local artist Lori McElrath-Eslick for a fun and relaxing time painting together!  Create your very own work of art to give to someone as a gift or hang on your wall!  All ability levels welcome.  Class size is limited and registration is required.  Please call the library at 231-744-6080 to register.

02/13/2016 – Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday
‎February 13 from 11:00am – 3:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a “Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday!”  See how tiny artworks pack a punch in the Postcard Salon and the MMA’s permanent collection during this free family fun day.

10:00 am & 1:00 pm
Film: The Borrowers (75 mins.) – A miniature family takes up residency in the walls of a house to save it from demolition.

11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Make & Take – Make your own mini masterpiece.

11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Guided Tours – Explore the works in the Postcard Salon with an MMA docent.

For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/14/2016 – Howl n Blues
‎Howl n Blues is a winter concert, blues party series held the second Sunday of each month through April 2016 at Watermark 920. The Watermark 920 features seating for over 250, large and small tables, side sofas, a huge dance floor, stage and stage lighting, craft and domestic beer, wine, a full bar and excellent food. Doors open at 1:00pm with music from 2:00 to 5:00pm.  The cost is $15 and includes two raffle tickets. Proceeds benefit the Pound Buddies Animal Shelter and Adoption Center. February 14 it’s Bryan Fischer. 

Ongoing Events:

Pennants on Display
Pennants from the collection of Peggy Tully are now on display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Her collection showcases pennants collected in the late 1940s and early 1950s from all over the United States and Canada. Starting with the collector’s hometown of Marshall, Michigan all the way to the Grand Canyon and beyond. This collection will be on display through the end of February 2016.  The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00pm.  For more information, call 231-722-0278 or visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

The Holocaust: A Ripple in Time
‎When you have survived one of the greatest tragedies imaginable, where do you go from there? Walk through an exhibit that explains life before, during and after the Holocaust. Cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. The exhibit will run through February 22, 2016. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards
‎The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to explore the exhibit “Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards.”  Imagine a land where corn grows to the size of tree trunks; where the lakes are so cold the trout have fur coats; where deer have become the hunters and men are their prey. These assorted oddities come vividly to life in this exhibit at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Tall tales are humorous stories of exaggeration that often involve ludicrous or absurd imagery.  The exhibit features over 80 tall tale postcards demonstrating this unique form of popular humor.  The exhibit is on loan from the Michigan State University Museum. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague.
The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to view the exhibit, “A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague.” Artifacts and photographs tell the story of the early days of Montague and Whitehall when the cities got their start during the lumbering industry.  Lumber mills attracted workers who needed housing, food, and supplies so stores and hotels were built. Businesses like tanneries and shingle mills which made use of the excess bark and wood from lumbering also moved into the community.  Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free.  For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org

Marsh Field: 1916 – 2016
The history of Marcs Field is explored in a small display at the Lakeshore Museum Center.  Photographs and text recount 100 years of baseball played at this Muskegon park. Marsh Field has hosted everything from community events to Major League affiliate baseball teams. Baseball Hall of Fame Players, like Satchel Paige, have played there as well as hometown heroes like Earl Morrall. Learn more about the history of Marsh Field now through June of 2016. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration
‎Through March 19, 2016, the 88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration is open.  The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. Online entry is available through the callforentry.org (CaFÉ) website. Search keyword “Muskegon” to find the show. Free CaFÉ registration is required for entry. The 88th Regional will run from May 12 through August 3, 2016. The deadline for entry is March 19, 2016. Hand delivery days for accepted artwork will be April 21, 22, and 23.

Reading by Any Means Necessary
You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the “Reading…by any means necessary” program, every Monday through Saturday from 2:00-5:30pm.  The museum is located at 7 E. Center St. in Muskegon Heights.  Call 231-739-9500 for more information.

Solar Superstorms
‎A fury is building on the surface of the sun, with high-velocity jets, a fiery tsunami wave that reaches 100,000 kilometers high, and rising loops of electrified gas. What’s driving these strange phenomena? How will they affect planet Earth? Find the answers as we venture into the seething interior of our star with “Solar Superstorms,” which takes viewers into dramatic flares, violent solar tornadoes, and the largest eruptions in the solar system: coronal mass ejections. This NEW 30-minute program at Muskegon Community College (room 135, 221 S. Quarterline Rd, Muskegon) will be at 7:00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 12 – March 31 (except: closed Mar 1 & 3 for spring break), and will be followed by a brief constellation demonstration projected on the planetarium dome. As always, the show is free, and no reservations are needed. Doors open for seating at 6:45pm. For more information, or to schedule a private show for groups of 15-44, please call (231) 777-0289 or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

COMMON GROUND: African American Art
‎December 10, 2015 through March 20, 2016, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “COMMON GROUND: African American Art from the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art”!  Common Ground is collaboration between three Michigan art museums showcasing the best of each institution’s renowned collections of African American artwork combined in one exhibition, including some of the most important African American artists from the nineteenth century to present day. Common Ground is divided into five thematic areas that will give a broad overview of the history of African American art, showing its diversity as well as its commonality. The exhibition includes more than 60 top-rated works in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and works on paper. Common Ground is underwritten by DTE Foundation with additional support from Fifth Third Bank and the Nancy A. Waters and Mark Waters Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. MLive/Muskegon Chronicle is the Common Ground media sponsor.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

I, TOO, AM AMERICA: The Art of Bryan Collier
‎January 18-April 17, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “I, too, am America:  The Art of Bryan Collier.”  This exhibition features 15 large scale original artworks created by Bryan Collier for his picture book, I, Too, Am America, which illustrates the seminal poem, I, Too by Langston Hughes. Collier graduated from the Pratt Institute and was a former Program Director at the Harlem Horizon Institute. His accolades include the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award, Caldecott Medal, and Jane Addam’s Children’s Book Award. He was also a nominee for an NAACP image award for Outstanding Children’s Literary Work. Underwritten by the Folkert Family Foundation.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition
‎All adult/college area writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on one of 10 artworks selected from the permanent collection and the Common Ground exhibition. Cash prizes, Muskegon Museum of Art memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets. Guidelines, images of selected works, and entry forms are available at the MMA gift store or may be downloaded from the MMA website at muskegonartmuseum.org. Entries must arrive at the MMA by March 24. Award winners will read their poems and be recognized at a ceremony on April 21. Questions? Call the MMA Education Department at 231-720-2587 or email: cmott@mpsk12.net.

After School Movie Madness!
Kids are invited to Walker Public Library at 3:15pm every Thursday (except for when there is a half-day or no school) for “After School Movie Madness!”  Age appropriate movies are shown and popcorn is provided while supplies last!  Call 231-744-6080 or visit the library to find out what movie is playing each week!

Art & a Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the MMA
Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!”  Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Take a break and enjoy the art with a glass of wine or a great craft brew. General admission is free Thursday evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Taco Saturday at Mona Lake Boating Club
‎The public is invited to the Mona Lake Boating Club every Saturday September 5 – May 28 from 11:30am-2:00pm for their famous homemade tacos, taco salads and nachos!  Call 231-798-4011 for more information.

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

02/01/2016 – Hackley Handycrafts: Valentine Book Art

‎Come to Hackley Public Library Monday, February 1 at 6:00pm for Hackley Handycrafts: Valentine Book Art! Using a discarded book, Nancy Hartman will take you through the steps to make a truly unique work of Valentine art.  For more information, call 231-722-7276.

02/02/2016 – Victory in Praise and Church of the Living God Choirs

‎February 2 at 6:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library for the Victory in Praise and Church of the Living God Choirs as they celebrate Black History Month. These two great choirs return for one awesome concert. Brandon Davis and the Victory in Praise Choir is a community choir in the Muskegon/West Michigan Area. They are comprised of Christians from various denominations. The Church of the Living God Choir is well known as a wonderful church choir in the greater Muskegon area. Brandon introduces the pieces with a bit of history. Brought to you through the generous bequest of Bess Commodore. For more information, call 231-722-7276.

02/02/2016 – White Lake Classical Series

‎Tuesday, February 2 at 7:00pm, you’re invited to the Book Nook & Java Shop for the White Lake Classical Series featuring Steve Thielman & Friends, featuring Sondra Cross, clarinet; Michelle Vallier, violin; Bryan Uecker, piano; Becky Parks, violin!  The cover is $5.  If you like, get their at 6:15 to enjoy a wonderful dinner of garlic and peppercorn encrusted pork tenderloin with a strawberry green pepper sauce; creamy polenta; sauteed kale and shallots; glass of house wine and chocolate ganache topped olive oil cake with roasted grapes for only $17.  RSVP to The Book Nook & Java Shop by calling (231) 894-5333.

02/02/2016 – Pianist, Dr. Solee Lee-Clark

‎Tuesday February 2 at 6:30pm, you’re invited to Walker Memorial Library for beautiful piano music!  From Carnegie hall to Walker Community  Center, Dr. Solee Lee-Clark will present a classical recital on their restored grand piano.  Dr. Clark, organist and accompanist at First Congregational Church and staff accompanist for Hope College, played at Carnegie Hall in 2014.  For more information, call 231-744-6080.

02/04/2016 – 02/07/16 Rebel Road Winter Burnout

‎February 4-7, it’s the Rebel Road Winter Burnout to benefit the Muskegon Child Abuse Council!  Come help them keep the fire burning on Rebel Road (Western Ave.) with all of your favorite food, beverages, vendors, live bands and burning barrels!

Thursday:

Cards Against Humanity – Racquets Downtown Grill, 7:00pm, $20 per team

Friday:

Full Service Open Air Bar with burning barrels – 6:00pm-11:00pm

Band – Pop Fiction, 7:00pm-11:00pm

Disk Golf – 6:00pm

Saturday:

Full Service Open Air Bar with burning barrels – 10:00am-11:00pm

Band – Whoopee Cat, 8:00pm-11:00pm

Corn Hole – 10:00am

Chili Cook-Off – $0.50 per sample, 11:30am-2:00pm, 3rd Floor of the Hilt Building, vendors, games for the whole family, auction

Disk Golf – 6:00pm

Sunday:

Motorcycle Swap Meet – 10:00am-5:00pm, L.C. Walker Arena

02/04/2016 – 02/18/16 Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale

‎February 4 – 18, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale! The MMA’s popular Postcard Salon returns in 2016 with the opportunity to view hundreds of small-scale artworks by artists throughout the region. The short exhibition ends with a free Postcard Salon reception and sale on February 18. The reception starts at 5:30pm with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar. Starting at 7:00pm that night, guests can buy the artworks for $30 each. The Postcard Salon is sponsored by G&L Greek Chili Dogs and WGVU Public Media.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/04/2016 – Happy Hour Painting

‎Thursday, February 4 from 6:00-8:00pm, enjoy Happy Hour Painting with Instructor Marlan Cotner at the Muskegon Museum of Art!  The cost is $30 or $25 for members, and includes materials and your first beverage.  This class is for ages 21 & up and is for all skill levels.  Join them for another round of painting and spirits focusing on The Kiss, the famous painting by Gustav Klimt. This golden painting embraces the viewer and the subjects. Pre-registration is required by calling 231-720-2571 by January 28.

02/04/2016 – Live Music: Third Coast

‎Thursday, February 4 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from Third Coast.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

02/05/2016 – 02/06/16 Michigan Anglers Association ‘Ed Subler’ Fishing Derby

‎Friday and Saturday, February 5-6, come to the Lakeside Eagles for the Michigan Anglers Association “Ed Subler” Fishing Derby!  Friday’s event is their opening social time with a fish & chicken fry and fun raffles. Saturday’s derby begins at 10:00am with weigh-in time before 3:00pm.  Tickets are available at local bait stores and the Lakeside Eagles.  The cost is $2 and includes a raffle for prizes after 3:00pm.

02/05/2016 – 02/06/16 Polar Plunge & Pre-Registration Party

‎The Muskegon Polar Plunge takes place at Fricano’s on February 6, 2016. Registration starts at 12:00pm. The Plunge will start at 2:00pm, with the awards and After Splash Bash at 4:00pm. There is free admission to the After Splash Bash for plungers. There will be a $10 fee for guests which includes pizza. If you would like to avoid the registration lines on Plunge Day, there will be a Pre-Registration Party on Friday, February 5 at Fricano’s to come in and get registered and turn in your donations. You can come any time from 4:00 – 8:00pm.  For more information, visit https://www.firstgiving.com/polarplunge/Muskegon16.

02/05/2016 – Black History Community Choir Concert

‎Friday, February 5 from 6:00-7:30pm, come to Collegiate Hall at MCC for “Celebrating Black History through Song, Poetry and the Spoken Word: Community Choir Concert.”  Students and community members, accompanied by Robert Moore and Greenbrook, will share the struggles and successes of African Americans through song, poetry/spoken word and dance.  For more information, call 231-777-0582.

02/05/2016 – Honoring Our Heroes featuring The Accidentals

‎Come to the Watermark 920, Friday, February 5 at 6:00pm for the “Honoring Our Heroes” event featuring live music from The Accidentals with special Guest Muskegon’s Christopher C. Cordle. This event will be free with donations being accepted at the door for the 501(c)3 charity organization, Finish The Mission, a veteran relief fund. Along with the concert, there will be silent auctions and 50/50 raffles to raise money for our area veterans in need.  For more information, call 231-865-3332.

02/05/2016 – First Friday Fan Fun-Raiser

‎The first Friday of the month, The Book Nook and Java Shop features a celebrity bartender and encourages their fans to show up and raise money. Tips and 20% of all proceeds will benefit the charity of their choice. Friday, February 5 at 7:00pm, the celebrity bartender will be Whitehall Mayor, Ed Whalen!  This Month’s Charity is the White Lake Community Fund of the Community Foundation of Muskegon County.  Enjoy live music from Serita Crowley & Jon Hayes, winners of the WYCE Jammie Award, and Three Time Eclipse Award-Winning Singer Serita Crowley, also known as “Black Rose” is a Funk, Rock, Blues, Neo-Soul Songstress Extraordinaire from West Michigan.  Dinner will have a Mardi Gras Theme, featuring Chicken Creole over Rice, Homemade Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce, Mai Tai Margaritas, Rum & Cokes, Hurricanes, Cafe Royale Lattes and New Holland “Dirty Bastards” Craft Beer. Laissez les bon temps rollez! For more information, call 231-894-5333.

02/05/2016 – Lumberjacks Hockey Home Game!

‎After finishing second in the chase for the USHL’s top prize – the Clark Cup, the Lumberjacks are back this season to win it and tonight they will go against the Bloomington Thunder. They will back to back games both Friday & Saturday with the Thunder this week. The puck drops at 7:15pm both nights.  Friday is $1 beer and hotdog night.  Saturday is Beard Night! Be there to support our hockey. GO JACKS! LC Walker Arena is located at 955 Fourth Street, downtown Muskegon.

02/05/2016 – West Michigan Symphony Presents: Viva Italia!

‎The West Michigan Symphony invites you to the Frauenthal Theater Friday, February 5 at 7:30pm to take a mid-winter Italian vacation with WMS! Nearly every piece Gioacchino Rossini wrote was full of humor and warmth, and none more so than The Italian Girl in Algiers. Next, in what is regarded as one of the greatest violin concertos of all time, Philippe Quint performs Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor. Finally, inspired by his travels to Italy, Felix Mendelssohn described his joyful and extroverted Italian Symphony as “the jolliest piece I have ever done.”  Call Rita at 231-726-3231 x223 for tickets and more information.

02/06/2016 – Dine and Glide

‎The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex and Smash Wine Bar & Bistro have partnered to provide this year’s Dine and Glide. February 6th for a progressive dinner and XC skiing. Each ticket includes your meal, 1 drink ticket, trail pass and rental equipment. You’ll enjoy a 5 course meal and beverages as you ski from course to course on the lighted trails at the Sports Complex. This is perfect for a romantic date night or fun evening out with friends. Menu
1st course The starter- white chocolate macadamia brownie bits 2nd course Easing in- hot beer cheddar soup served in an fresh baked bread bowl. 3rd course Hit em’ hard- Cajun sausage & shrimp jambalaya served over white rice 4th course Will I make it- 1/2 lb. Thai Asian chicken wings 5th course Finish line- Wine, Fireball or Blue Tahitian snow cones

02/06/2016 – Hearty Bread Bowls and Soups with Chef Char Morse

‎Saturday, February 6 from 9:00am-11:00am, come to the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for the adult cooking class “Have Your Bowl and Eat It Too: Hearty Bread Bowls and Soups with Chef Char Morse!”  Learn the basics to homemade stocks and broths as the foundation to several soup possibilities.  Demo and discuss: Tips for making clear stocks, understand difference between stock, broth and bisque. You will be making hearty bread bowls to go along with two soups made in class.  Your recipes packet will include however: Homemade Chicken Noodle with Vegetables, Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil, Vegetable Bean, Classic French Onion and Curried Butternut.  The cost is $38 and you can register at www.eventbrite.com. 

02/06/2016 – Black History Month Trivia Contest

‎So you think you know your Black History? Form a group with your friends (up to 4 per team, 6 teams total) and pit your knowledge against other teams. Call Hackley Public Library at 231-722-7276 to register your team by February 5. On February 6, at 2:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library to see the contest, hosted by a surprise celebrity. Teams will be asked questions on Black History. They’ll have prizes for First, Second, and Third place teams, as well as some consolation prizes. Cheer on your friends and family! Brought to you through the generous bequest of Bess Commodore. www.hackleylibrary.org

02/06/2016 – Pop Star Party: A Family Dance Party Fundraiser

‎The Muskegon Lakeshore Figure Skating Club presents “Pop Star Party: A Family Dance Party!”  This fundraiser features Digital Joes Mobile Entertainment, games, food, a costume contest and photo booth.  It’s all happening Saturday, February 6 from 5:00-8:00pm at the Elks Lodge in Grand Haven.  Tickets are available at the door. For more information, email sk8mlfsc@gmail.com.

02/06/2016 – West Michigan Lake Hawks Home Game

‎The West Michigan Lake Hawks ABA basketball team will play a home game against the Team NetWork at Reeths Puffer High School Saturday, February 6 at 6:00pm.  For more information, visit lakehawksbasketball.com.

02/06/2016 – Dance the Night Away

‎Door prize drawings for advanced ticket purchases. B.Y.O.B. – appetizers and water provided $12.00 per person. Dress to Impress or Classy Casual Complimentary dance lessons – ballroom, swing and line dancing. Proceeds to benefit Greater Muskegon Women’s Club Scholarship Fund.

02/06/2016 – Live Music: Knick Knacks

‎Saturday, February 6 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from the Knick Knacks.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

02/06/2016 – Lumberjacks Hockey Home Game!

‎After finishing second in the chase for the USHL’s top prize – the Clark Cup, the Lumberjacks are back this season to win it and tonight they will go against the Bloomington Thunder. They will back to back games both Friday & Saturday with the Thunder this week. The puck drops at 7:15pm. Be there to support our hockey. GO JACKS! LC Walker Arena is located at 955 Fourth Street, downtown Muskegon.

02/06/2016 – Concert @The Block: Philippe Quint, violin

‎Award-winning American violinist Philippe Quint is a multifaceted artist whose wide range of interests has led to several Grammy nominations for his albums and performances with major orchestras throughout the world. Quint studied at Moscow’s Special Music School for the Gifted and made his orchestral debut at the age of nine. After moving to the United States, he earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from The Juilliard School. Philippe Quint plays unaccompanied in a solo performance at this mid-winter concert at The Block.

Call Rita at 231.726.3231 x223 for tickets and more information. Doors and bar open at 6:30, concert begins at 7:30 PM.

02/07/2016 – Michgian Winter Triathlon

Come to the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex Sunday, February 7 beginning at 10:00am for the Michigan Winter Triathlon! This is your opportunity to try out three exciting Winter Olympic sports (luge, ice speedskating and cross country skiing) in a family-friendly competition smack in the heart of “Pure West Michigan.” The event is geared toward those the have never done at least one of these sports. There are no big awards. There is no pressure to win. You’ll simply have fun doing a sport you would not normally think about trying. Learn everything you need to know to get through this competition in continuous 20 minute clinics at each venue.

ENTRY FEE: $20 Ages 12 and under

$25 Ages 13 and over

$50 Family rate (mom/dad and children living in the same house)

10:00-11:30am: Check in and registration in the lodge. YOU MUST HAVE PROOF OF HEALTH CARE INSURANCE!!!

10:30am: Clinics held for beginners at the three venues. 20 minute continuous sessions. For safety reasons, it is mandatory that everyone attend a luge clinic. You do not have to attend the ski or skate clinics unless you want extra training.

Noon-2:30pm: Begin the skating and luge competitions. Do whichever one you want first then go to the other event when done. It is up to you to manage your time so you can participate in both the luge and speedskating competitions before the start of the ski race. The ski race goes off at 3:00pm sharp whether you are finished or not at the other two venues!!!

3:00pm – Cross country ski race begins (mass start)

4:00pm – Awards presented

For more information, call Mark Jastrzembski at 231-828-4627.

02/07/2016 – Motorcycle Swap Meet

Paragons Promotion in conjunction with the Rebel Road Winter Burn Out present the 1st Annual Muskegon Motorcycle Swap Meet. Sunday, February 7 from 10:00am-4:00pm, come to the L.C. Walker Arena to buy, sell or trade bikes, parts, leather and more, all to benefit the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon! Food and beverages will be available. For more information, call 1-800-800-6034.

Ongoing Events:

Pennants on Display

‎Pennants from the collection of Peggy Tully are now on display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Her collection showcases pennants collected in the late 1940s and early 1950s from all over the United States and Canada. Starting with the collector’s hometown of Marshall, Michigan all the way to the Grand Canyon and beyond. This collection will be on display through the end of February 2016.  The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00pm.  For more information, call 231-722-0278 or visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

The Holocaust: A Ripple in Time

‎When you have survived one of the greatest tragedies imaginable, where do you go from there? Walk through an exhibit that explains life before, during and after the Holocaust. Cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. The exhibit will run through February 22, 2016. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards

‎The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to explore the exhibit “Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards.”  Imagine a land where corn grows to the size of tree trunks; where the lakes are so cold the trout have fur coats; where deer have become the hunters and men are their prey. These assorted oddities come vividly to life in this exhibit at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Tall tales are humorous stories of exaggeration that often involve ludicrous or absurd imagery.  The exhibit features over 80 tall tale postcards demonstrating this unique form of popular humor.  The exhibit is on loan from the Michigan State University Museum. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague .

‎The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to view the exhibit, “A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague.” Artifacts and photographs tell the story of the early days of Montague and Whitehall when the cities got their start during the lumbering industry.  Lumber mills attracted workers who needed housing, food, and supplies so stores and hotels were built. Businesses like tanneries and shingle mills which made use of the excess bark and wood from lumbering also moved into the community.  Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free.  For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org  

Marsh Field: 1916 – 2016

‎The history of Marsh Field is explored in a small display at the Lakeshore Museum Center.  Photographs and text recount 100 years of baseball played at this Muskegon park. Marsh Field has hosted everything from community events to Major League affiliate baseball teams. Baseball Hall of Fame Players, like Satchel Paige, have played there as well as hometown heroes like Earl Morrall. Learn more about the history of Marsh Field now through June of 2016. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration

‎Through March 19, 2016, the 88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration is open.  The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. Online entry is available through the callforentry.org (CaFÉ) website. Search keyword “Muskegon” to find the show. Free CaFÉ registration is required for entry. The 88th Regional will run from May 12 through August 3, 2016. The deadline for entry is March 19, 2016. Hand delivery days for accepted artwork will be April 21, 22, and 23.

Reading by Any Means Necessary

‎You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the “Reading…by any means necessary” program, every Monday through Saturday from 2:00-5:30pm.  The museum is located at 7 E. Center St. in Muskegon Heights.  Call 231-739-9500 for more information.

Solar Superstorms

‎A fury is building on the surface of the sun, with high-velocity jets, a fiery tsunami wave that reaches 100,000 kilometers high, and rising loops of electrified gas. What’s driving these strange phenomena? How will they affect planet Earth? Find the answers as we venture into the seething interior of our star. “Solar Superstorms” is a major new production that takes viewers into dramatic flares, violent solar tornadoes, and the largest eruptions in the solar system: coronal mass ejections. The program features one of the most intensive efforts ever made to visualize the inner workings of the sun, including a series of groundbreaking computer visualizations. This NEW 30-minute program will be at 7:00 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, January 12 – March 31 (except: closed Mar 1 & 3 for spring break), and will be followed by a brief constellation demonstration projected on the planetarium dome. As always, the show is free, and no reservations are needed. Doors open for seating at 6:45. For more information, or to schedule a private show for groups of 15-44, please call (231) 777-0289 or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

COMMON GROUND: African American Art

‎December 10, 2015 through March 20, 2016, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “COMMON GROUND: African American Art from the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art”!  Common Ground is a collaboration between three Michigan art museums showcasing the best of each institution’s renowned collections of African American artwork combined in one exhibition, including some of the most important African American artists from the nineteenth century to present day. Common Ground is divided into five thematic areas that will give a broad overview of the history of African American art, showing its diversity as well as its commonality. The exhibition includes more than 60 top-rated works in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and works on paper. Common Ground is underwritten by DTE Foundation with additional support from Fifth Third Bank and the Nancy A. Waters and Mark Waters Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. MLive/Muskegon Chronicle is the Common Ground media sponsor.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org. 

I, TOO, AM AMERICA: The Art of Bryan Collier

‎January 18-April 17, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “I, too, am America:  The Art of Bryan Collier.”  This exhibition features 15 large scale original artworks created by Bryan Collier for his picture book, I, Too, Am America, which illustrates the seminal poem, I, Too by Langston Hughes. Collier graduated from the Pratt Institute and was a former Program Director at the Harlem Horizon Institute. His accolades include the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award, Caldecott Medal, and Jane Addam’s Children’s Book Award. He was also a nominee for an NAACP image award for Outstanding Children’s Literary Work. Underwritten by the Folkert Family Foundation.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition

‎All adult/college area writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on one of 10 artworks selected from the permanent collection and the Common Ground exhibition. Cash prizes, Muskegon Museum of Art memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets. Guidelines, images of selected works, and entry forms are available at the MMA gift store or may be downloaded from the MMA website at muskegonartmuseum.org. Entries must arrive at the MMA by March 24. Award winners will read their poems and be recognized at a ceremony on April 21. Questions? Call the MMA Education Department at 231-720-2587 or email: cmott@mpsk12.net.

After School Movie Madness!

‎Kids are invited to Walker Public Library at 3:15pm every Thursday (except for when there is a half-day or no school) for “After School Movie Madness!”  Age appropriate movies are shown and popcorn is provided while supplies last!  Call 231-744-6080 or visit the library to find out what movie is playing each week!

Art & a Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the MMA

‎Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!”  Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Take a break and enjoy the art with a glass of wine or a great craft brew. General admission is free Thursday evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Muskegon Civic Theatre Saturday Classes

‎The Muskegon Civic Theatre offers wonderful enrichment classes for kids every Saturday from January 2-February 6.  There are three different levels based on your child’s age:  

Kreative Kids and Characters
Grades 2–3
Saturdays 10:00-11:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

Characters Create
Grades 4–6
Saturdays 10:00-11:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

Exploring Characters
Grades 7–12
Saturdays 9:00-10:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

They accept cash, check or credit card for tuition payment.  Bring or mail your registration and payment to:

Muskegon Civic Theatre
425 W. Western Avenue, Suite 401
Muskegon, MI 49440

For more information, call  (231) 722-3852.   

Taco Saturday at Mona Lake Boating Club

‎The public is invited to the Mona Lake Boating Club every Saturday September 5 – May 28 from 11:30am-2:00pm for their famous homemade tacos, taco salads and nachos!  Call 231-798-4011 for more information.

February is no time to hibernate when there is so much to do in downtown Muskegon! For its part, the Muskegon Museum of Art continues its Finding Common Ground program series this month with exhibitions of art by African American artists, films, and guest speakers. The MMA’s Art Talk poetry competition, now in its fourth season, features works from Common Ground: African American Art and the MMA’s collection as subjects for poetry entries. The Postcard Salon, a treat for artists and art lovers, also returns this year. This non-competitive show will be open February 4 – 18 and ends with a reception and sale of hundreds of small-scale original artworks for only $30 each! Artists will be interested to know that Regional Exhibition artwork entry has gone to a digital process and is now open. Entries are due March 19 and the MMA staff will hold a “Regional 911” workshop for artists who would like help with the new entry process.

Thursdays, 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Public Tours
Drop in for docent-led exhibition tours. MMA admission: $8 adult, $5 adult student with I.D., free for ages 3-17 and for MMA Members.

EXHIBITION through MARCH 20
Common Ground: African American Art From the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art
Common Ground celebrates the mutual dedication of the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art to collect works by African American artists. Sixty paintings, sculpture, and works on paper, dating from the 19th century to the present, chronicle a cultural journey of nearly 200 years. The exhibition is organized into five themes: Gaining Access, New Self-Awareness, Political and Social Expressions, Examining Identities, and Towards Abstraction. These themes provide a broad overview of the history of African American art, from the talent and determination of the earliest artists who overcame daunting social challenges to internationally acclaimed work by leading contemporary artists.
The Muskegon presentation of Common Ground incorporates additional examples of African American art from the MMA’s own collection, further demonstrating home pride in the MMA’s treasures and our contribution to the cultural legacy of the City of Muskegon and West Michigan as a whole. Common Ground is underwritten by DTE Foundation and co-sponsored by Fifth Third and the Nancy A. Waters and Mark Waters Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Additional support is provided by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs with the National Endowment for the Arts.

Through March 24
Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition
All adult/college area writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on one of 10 artworks selected from the permanent collection and the Common Ground exhibition. Cash prizes, MMA memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets. Guidelines, images of selected works, and entry forms are available at the MMA gift store or may be downloaded from the MMA website at www.muskegonartmuseum.org. Entries must arrive at the MMA by March 24. Award winners will read their poems and be recognized at a ceremony on April 21. Questions? Call the MMA Education Department at 231.720.2587 or email: cmott@mpsk12.net.

EXHIBITION through April 17
I, Too, Am America: The Art of Bryan Collier
Each year, during the span between winter and spring, the MMA presents the work of an renowned book illustrator. This year’s exhibition features 15 original large scale illustrations created by Bryan Collier for his picture book, I, Too, Am America, illustrating the seminal poem by Langston Hughes. The exhibition will appeal to visitors of every age and offers opportunities to celebrate African American History Month in February and March Reading Month. Underwritten by the Folkert Family Foundation.

February 4 – 18, 2016
Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale
The MMA’s popular Postcard Salon returns in 2016 with the opportunity to view hundreds of small-scale artworks by artists throughout the region, starting February 4. The short exhibition ends with a free Postcard Salon reception and sale on February 18. The reception starts at 5:30 pm with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar. Starting at 7:00 pm that night, guests can buy the artworks for $30 each. The Postcard Salon is sponsored by G&L Greek Chili Dogs and WGVU Public Media.

Thursday, February 4, 6:00-8:00 pm
Happy Hour Painting
Instructor: Marlan Cotner
$30/$25 member (includes materials and your first beverage)
Ages: 21 & up/ All skill levels
Join us for another round of painting and spirits this time we will focus on The Kiss, the famous painting by Gustav Klimt. This golden painting embraces the viewer and the subjects. Pre-registration is required. Call 231.720.2571 to register.

February 11, 12:15 pm
Brown Bag Film
All of Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert
(78 mins.) In this documentary Winfred Rembert reflects on his life in the segregated south and how his life and art unfolded together. He works through memories and records them by tooling images on leather and then painting them with dye. The work is moving not only in emotion, but in rhythm, line, and movement. Brown Bag Films are free and sponsored by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.

February 11, 6:00 pm
An Evening with Winfred Rembert
Enjoy a special evening with Winfred Rembert, one of the newest artists in the collection of the Muskegon Museum of Art with Chain Gang Picking Cotton #2, and Vivian Ducat, the creator of the film, All Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert. Rembert, a dynamic artist with a true talent and passion for his work, will talk about his life and art. He will be joined by Vivian Ducat, who worked with him initially to create a short eight-minute film that ultimately became a feature-length documentary of Rembert’s family, his trials, and his artwork. Rembert and Ducat will discuss the film with the audience after the film. This event is free and is part of the MMA’s Finding Common Ground program series, made possible by the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Arts.

February 13, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday
See how tiny artworks pack a punch in the Postcard Salon and the MMA’s permanent collection during this free family fun day.
10:00 am & 1:00 pm
Film: The Borrowers
(75 mins.) A miniature family takes up residency in the walls of a house to save it from demolition.
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Make & Take
Make your own mini masterpiece.
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Guided Tours
Explore the works in the Postcard Salon with an MMA docent.

Through March 19, 2016
88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration
The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. Online entry is open through March 19, 2016 and is available through the www.callforentry.org (CaFÉ) website. Search keyword “Muskegon” to find the show. Free CaFÉ registration is required for entry. The 88th Regional will run from May 12 through August 3, 2016. The deadline for entry is March 19, 2016. Hand delivery days for accepted artwork will be April 21, 22, and 23.

Saturday, February 20, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Regional 911 – Assisted Artist Entry
The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. During this workshop, MMA staff and volunteers will help artists photograph and submit their artwork entries, leading artists through the entire entry process to completion. Normal entry fees will apply: $35 for up to two works, $20 for MMA members. The workshop is free. Artists are required to bring:
• The artwork they wish to enter
• Credit or Debit card (for online payment of entry) Cash or check can be accepted
• USB Drive – For artists wanting to keep their images *MMA will have USB drives for sale
• Valid email address (required for registration and notification)
Artwork will not be kept at the MMA. Artists must take their artwork home at the close of their registration. Artists will be notified of the jury results via email.

February 25, 12:15 pm
Brown Bag Film
Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace
(60 mins.) Known for his vibrant reinterpretations of classical portraits featuring African-American men, New York-based painter Kehinde Wiley turned the practice of portraiture on its head and, in the process, took the art world by storm. This film follows the artist as he takes on a new project to create a series of classical portraits of African-American women—something he had never before done. Brown Bag Films are free and sponsored by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.

February 25, 7:00 pm
Curator’s Insight: Common Ground
Tracee Glab, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, Flint Institute of Arts will give a presentation that focuses on the artists featured in the MMA’s Common Ground: African American Art exhibition. This event is free and is part of the MMA’s Finding Common Ground program series, made possible by the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Arts.
February 13, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday
Free Family Fun Day
See how tiny artworks pack a punch and create a mini masterpiece during this free family fun day at the MMA. Admission and activities are free and are underwritten by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.
10:00 am & 1:00 pm
Film: The Borrowers
(75 mins.) A miniature family takes up residency in the walls of a house to save it from demolition.
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Make & Take
Make your own mini masterpiece.
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Guided Tours
Tour Postcard Salon with an MMA docent.

The Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts
proudly presents the 11th Season of
“The Alley Door Club”
with a new twist:
“Sip, Savor & Shimmy!”
  Tasting Events with local
                Breweries, Wineries & Mills             

THE FRAUENTHAL CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS is excited to announce a new twist on an old favorite!  The Alley Door Club has enjoyed great success for 10 seasons but now it’s time to add something new!  We are celebrating our 11th Season by adding “Sip, Savor & Shimmy!” tasting events to each night of the 2016 Alley Door Club!  A local brewery, winery or mill has been paired with each band to give you a new social experience and an opportunity to “Sip, Savor and Shimmy!” the night away!

We’ve got our favorite bands returning as well as adding in some new requests.  This season promises to be the best year yet!

Doors open at 6 pm for Happy Hour ($1 off all drinks), the bands play from 7 – 10 pm.

The Alley Door Club is located on the 3rd floor of the Hilt Building in the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts.  Please enter through the Hilt Building doors, tickets may be purchased at the Box Office.

Tickets $7 in advance or at the door, cash bar available, valid I.D. required.   For more information, call 727-8001 or visit www.frauenthal.org.  Tables may be reserved, $55.00 for a 4-top (includes 4 admission tickets) / $80.00 for an 8-top (includes 8 admission tickets).  Limit of 2 4-tops and 2 8-tops reserved for each performance – sold on a first come basis.

2016 Schedule:
Friday, Jan. 8 ~ The Vincent Hayes Project (blues, funk, soul) & Fetch Brewery
Friday, Jan. 22 ~ Big Daddy Fox & Friends (r&b, rockin’ blues) & Lemon Creek Winery
Friday, Feb. 12 ~ Westside Soul Surfers (stunning range of tastes, genres & eras) & Pigeon Hill Brewery                  
Friday, Feb. 26 ~ Brena (rock) & Odd Side Ales
Friday, Mar. 11 ~ The Crane Wives (homegrown indi-folk that defies musical stereotypes) & Vander Mill Cider
Friday, Mar. 25 ~ Jaded 8 (classic rock, modern rock, 80’s, even chick songs) & Dutch Girls Brewery
Friday, Apr. 8 ~ House Rockers (r&b, funk, soul) & Michigan Wines
Friday, Apr. 22 ~ Yard Sale Underwear (the self proclaimed king of polyester pop & soul) & Unruly Brewery

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

01/11/2016 – 01/26/16 January Series

‎The Calvin College January Series is streamed live in the Beardsley Theater and is free to the public. Lectures are January 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25 and 26 from 12:30pm – 1:30pm. For more information on the speakers please visit calvin.edu/january-series/speakers/.

01/11/2016 – WWII Book Discussion: Sophie’s Choice

‎The Silversides Museum is sponsoring a film and book discussion group on the topic of the Holocaust. The film will be shown at the Museum, the book discussion will take place at Hackley Public Library Monday, January 11 at 6:00pm. This month the book is Sophie’s Choice by William Stryron and the Movie is “Sophie’s Choice” which will be shown at 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm at the Silversides Museum on Wednesday, January 13. www.silversidesmuseum.org

01/12/2016 – Las Vegas Travel Guide

‎Thinking of going to Las Vegas? Before you do, come to Hackley Public Library Monday, January 12 at 6:00pm and hear from Lou Gifford on what to see and do.  For more information, call 231-722-7276.

01/14/2016 – Brown Bag Film: The Quilts of Gee’s Bend

‎Thursday, January 14 at 12:15pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Brown Bag Film, “The Quilts of Gee’s Bend.’  (28 mins.) This remarkable group of women that make up Gee’s Bend pushed the ordinary quilt to new boundaries. Learn about the history behind their quilts and how these stunning and vibrant quilts were discovered. An etching and aquatint by Mary Lee Bendolph, inspired by African American quilts, is part of the Common Ground exhibition.

The MMA’s Winter Brown Bag Films highlight the lives and work of renowned African American artists as part of the MMA’s Finding Common Ground program series. Film admission is free. You may bring your lunch. Free coffee and cookies will be served. Brown Bag films are shown on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at 12:15pm. The auditorium doors open at noon. (Please note: Paid admission is required to enter the galleries.) Films are underwritten by MMA Education Partner: Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.  For more information, visit www.muskegonartmuseum.org.

01/14/2016 – Digital Regional Entry Workshop

‎Thursday, January 14 from 6:00–7:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Digital Regional Entry Workshop.  MMA Associate Curator, Art Martin, will walk you through their new Regional Exhibition digital entry process, including how to prepare digital images of your artwork. Admission is free.  Visit muskegonartmuseum.org for more information.

01/15/2016 – Advancing an Urban Agenda

‎Unity is the theme of the day January 15, and local mayors and city managers will join the public to discuss issues facing Muskegon County communities.  The public roundtable discussion “Advancing an Urban Agenda” will follow the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Day Breakfast, tickets for which are sold out. The breakfast will be at Muskegon Community College, while the roundtable discussion will be across the street at Baker College’s Student Center, 1903 Marquette Ave., beginning at 10:00am.

The public is encouraged to join the conversation as the community leaders tackle three crucial issues: public safety, healthy neighborhoods and economic development that creates family-sustaining jobs.  The roundtable discussion is described as an “interactive, problem-solving, future-action oriented session.”

01/15/2016 – West Michigan Symphony Presents: Luck of the Irish

‎Enjoy a little luck of the Irish with international recording artist and former lead singer of Cherish the Ladies, Cathie Ryan, as she warms up West Michigan with heartfelt lyrics, beloved ballads and traditional tunes of the Emerald Isle. An inaugural member of the Michigan Irish American Hall of Fame, Cathie Ryan along with her band will provide a spirit-lifting evening of Irish music with guest conductor Andrew Koehler and the West Michigan Symphony orchestra.

Single Ticket Prices: $22-$52 Student tickets: $10

Call Rita at 231-726-3231 x223 for tickets and more information.

01/16/2016 – 01/17/16 White River Steelheaders Annual Perch Festival

‎The White River Steelheaders Annual Perch Festival is returning to Montague January 16-17 at the Montague VFW. The 32nd annual event is scheduled to have a chili cookoff on Saturday, as well as two days to catch the largest fish in Muskegon, Oceana, Mason and Newaygo counties.

The festival kicks off at noon January 16 with weigh-in times scheduled during the day between noon and 4:00pm, and also on January 17 between 10:00am and 2:00pm.  For more information on the event or to find out how to get involved, contact Clint Pollock at 231-893-0210.

01/16/2016 – 9th Annual Hot Rod Harley-Davidson Chili Cook-Off

‎The 9^thAnnual Hot Rod Harley-Davidson Chili Cook-Off is happening Saturday, January 16 from 12:00pm – 2:00pm.  Join the Coastline Deli, Hennessy’s Pub, Third Street Grill & Texas Roadhouse as they compete for the title of Chili Champion!  Get free samples and vote for your favorite (while supplies last). Donations will be accepted on behalf of the Pioneer Resources “Pioneer Trails Camp”.

Also, enjoy sizzling hot deals all day. Pick a pepper and get 15% to 25% off all officially licensed products. Discount will be drawn at time of purchase and applies to regular priced items. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Excludes motorcycles, labor, after-market parts, previous purchases and select special orders. For more information, call 231-722-0000.

01/16/2016 – Polish Palooza!

‎January 16 from 6:00-10:00pm, come to the Polish Falcons Club for Polish Palooza!  This fundraiser for the first annual Muskegon Polish Festival will feature live music from Box On, authentic Polish food and a cash bar. All proceeds go toward the start up costs for Muskegon Polish Festival, happening Labor Day Weekend 2016. For more information, visit muskegonpolishfest.com or check them out on Facebook.

01/18/2016 – Baker College of Muskegon to Honor Martin Luther King Jr.

‎Baker College service projects on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Monday, January 18, 8:00am-5:00pm at the Student Center include:

• Coloring lunch bags to be used for take-home meals by children served by the not-for-profit Kids’ Food Basket, which focuses on childhood hunger.
• Painting peace poles to donate to Pathfinders of Muskegon Heights to sell as a fundraiser. Pathfinders is an education, life skills and violence prevention program for children and teens.

• collecting canned food for the Baker College Residence Life Food Pantry, which assists students in need.

• A donation truck from Goodwill will be on site with bins located throughout campus for clothing and household items in good condition.

For more information about Baker College activities for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, contact Kathy Jacobson in the admissions office at kathy.jacobson@baker.edu or 231-777-5200.

01/18/2016 – Martin Luther King FREE COMMUNITY DAY

‎Monday, January 18 from 11:00am-7:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for Martin Luther King FREE COMMUNITY DAY!  The MMA will open its doors for free on this community day that will include free admission, children’s art activities, guided exhibition tours, and films that will be shown throughout the day. Three exhibitions of artwork by African American artists will be open to view at the MMA on January 18: Common Ground: African American Art from the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and the Muskegon Museum of Art, The Public Life of Richard Hunt: 21st Century Projects, and I, Too, Am America: The Art of Bryan Collier.

FREE BUS RIDES

To help people get to the Muskegon Museum of Art, the Muskegon Area Transit System (MATS) will provide free round-trip bus passes to the MMA on January 18. The special bus passes are available at the following Muskegon locations:
Muskegon Museum of Art (296 W. Webster Ave.)
Hackley Public Library (316 W. Webster Ave.)
Muskegon Heights Public Library (2808 Sanford St.)
Mona Shores Public Library (705 Seminole Rd.)
Hackley Community Care Center (2700 Baker St.)
MATS Administration Office and Louis A. McMurray Conference Center (2624 Sixth St.)
The Beat 103.7 radio station (1877 Peck St.)
Muskegon County Clerk’s Office (990 Terrace St., 1st floor)
Selected area businesses
Many area churches

Riders may present their passes at the Muskegon Museum of Art on January 18 to receive the free return ride to their home bus stop. The free bus pass program is underwritten by Muskegon County Clerk Nancy A. Waters and Attorney James. L. Waters, Fifth Third Bank, and the Muskegon Museum of Art. This community day is underwritten by Meijer.  Visit muskegonartmuseum.org for more information.

01/18/2016 – Lumberjacks MLK Day Lunchtime Hockey!

‎The Lumberjacks celebrate Muskegon, honor Martin Luther King Junior and play “Lunch-time Hockey” Monday, January 4! The Muskegon Lumberjacks have partnered with the City of Muskegon, the Chamber of Commerce and Muskegon Heights to create a must-attend event that celebrates the ongoing revitalization of Muskegon, while also honoring the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King.

This unique 12:15pm game (doors open at 11:15pm) provides a great opportunity for local businesses to come together and cheer on one another, the City of Muskegon and the Muskegon Lumberjacks.

“With many Muskegon County school-age children as well as State and Federal Employees enjoying the MLK Holi-day, we have a special-priced Watch Us Go $12 Ticket available. The ticket includes a great seat, a hot-dog and soda voucher, and also a $2 donation to support the “Watch Muskegon Campaign”. “We are pulling out all the stops to make Monday, January 18th a special day in Muskegon,” shared Lumberjack’s President, Rob Murphy.

Additionally, local businesses are encouraged to provide value added coupons and special offers to be included in a special “Watch Us Go” goodie bag that will be given to all guests in attendance.

The Lumberjacks will sport special “Watch Us Go” patches on their jerseys and special guests including Fox Sports Detroit analyst (and former Detroit Red Wing), Darren Eliot, as well as members of the West Michigan LakeHawks will be in attendance to meet and greet fans pre-and post-game.

For more information, or to get involved, please contact the Muskegon Lumberjacks President of Business Opera-tions, Rob Murphy at rmurphy@muskegonlumberjacks.com or 231-724-5225 x 235, or Sales and Marketing Coordi-nator Cara Mendelson at cmendelson@muskegonlumberjacks.com or 231-724-5225 x 224.

Ongoing Events:

Pennants on Display

‎Pennants from the collection of Peggy Tully are now on display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Her collection showcases pennants collected in the late 1940s and early 1950s from all over the United States and Canada. Starting with the collector’s hometown of Marshall, Michigan all the way to the Grand Canyon and beyond. This collection will be on display through the end of February 2016.  The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00pm.  For more information, call 231-722-0278 or visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

The Holocaust: A Ripple in Time

‎When you have survived one of the greatest tragedies imaginable, where do you go from there? Walk through an exhibit that explains life before, during and after the Holocaust. Cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. The exhibit will run through February 22, 2016. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards

‎The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to explore the exhibit “Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards.”  Imagine a land where corn grows to the size of tree trunks; where the lakes are so cold the trout have fur coats; where deer have become the hunters and men are their prey. These assorted oddities come vividly to life in this exhibit at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Tall tales are humorous stories of exaggeration that often involve ludicrous or absurd imagery.  The exhibit features over 80 tall tale postcards demonstrating this unique form of popular humor.  The exhibit is on loan from the Michigan State University Museum. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague .

‎The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to view the exhibit, “A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague.” Artifacts and photographs tell the story of the early days of Montague and Whitehall when the cities got their start during the lumbering industry.  Lumber mills attracted workers who needed housing, food, and supplies so stores and hotels were built. Businesses like tanneries and shingle mills which made use of the excess bark and wood from lumbering also moved into the community.  Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free.  For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org

Reading by Any Means Necessary

‎You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the “Reading…by any means necessary” program, every Monday through Saturday from 2:00-5:30pm.  The museum is located at 7 E. Center St. in Muskegon Heights.  Call 231-739-9500 for more information.

Solar Superstorms

‎A fury is building on the surface of the sun, with high-velocity jets, a fiery tsunami wave that reaches 100,000 kilometers high, and rising loops of electrified gas. What’s driving these strange phenomena? How will they affect planet Earth? Find the answers as we venture into the seething interior of our star. “Solar Superstorms” is a major new production that takes viewers into dramatic flares, violent solar tornadoes, and the largest eruptions in the solar system: coronal mass ejections. The program features one of the most intensive efforts ever made to visualize the inner workings of the sun, including a series of groundbreaking computer visualizations. This NEW 30-minute program will be at 7:00 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, January 12 – March 31 (except: closed Mar 1 & 3 for spring break), and will be followed by a brief constellation demonstration projected on the planetarium dome. As always, the show is free, and no reservations are needed. Doors open for seating at 6:45. For more information, or to schedule a private show for groups of 15-44, please call (231) 777-0289 or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

The Public Life of Richard Hunt: 21st Century Projects

‎November 5, 2015 through January 24, 2016, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “The Public Life of Richard Hunt: 21st Century Projects”!  Sculptor Richard Hunt is nationally known for his bent, shaped, and welded steel or bronze sculptures of fluid and vibrant organic forms. Hunt is one of the most prolific artists working in public art today and created Muskegon, Together Rising, the monumental stainless steel sculpture at the center of the Patricia B. Johnson (traffic) Circle in downtown Muskegon. Because of Muskegon’s relationship with Hunt, and in honor of his 80th birthday this year, the MMA present the exhibition, The Public Life of Richard Hunt: 21st Century Projects, organized by the Krasl Art Center, Saint Joseph, Michigan. Muskegon, Together Rising will be a key component of the exhibition, its history and development represented by two stainless steel models from the MMA collection, and a group of preliminary drawings and installation photographs. Visitors will discover how large scale public works develop and the many subtle changes that come about during the creative and collaborative process before a final project is realized. The Public Life of Richard Hunt is underwritten by PNC. Media sponsor is Blue Lake Public Radio. For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

COMMON GROUND: African American Art

‎December 10, 2015 through March 20, 2016, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “COMMON GROUND: African American Art from the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art”!  Common Ground is a collaboration between three Michigan art museums showcasing the best of each institution’s renowned collections of African American artwork combined in one exhibition, including some of the most important African American artists from the nineteenth century to present day. Common Ground is divided into five thematic areas that will give a broad overview of the history of African American art, showing its diversity as well as its commonality. The exhibition includes more than 60 top-rated works in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and works on paper. Common Ground is underwritten by DTE Foundation with additional support from Fifth Third Bank and the Nancy A. Waters and Mark Waters Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. MLive/Muskegon Chronicle is the Common Ground media sponsor.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

After School Movie Madness!

‎Kids are invited to Walker Public Library at 3:15pm every Thursday (except for when there is a half-day or no school) for “After School Movie Madness!”  Age appropriate movies are shown and popcorn is provided while supplies last!  Call 231-744-6080 or visit the library to find out what movie is playing each week!

Muskegon Civic Theatre Saturday Classes

‎The Muskegon Civic Theatre offers wonderful enrichment classes for kids every Saturday from January 2-February 6.  There are three different levels based on your child’s age:

Kreative Kids and Characters
Grades 2–3
Saturdays 10:00-11:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

Characters Create
Grades 4–6
Saturdays 10:00-11:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

Exploring Characters
Grades 7–12
Saturdays 9:00-10:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

They accept cash, check or credit card for tuition payment.  Bring or mail your registration and payment to:

Muskegon Civic Theatre
425 W. Western Avenue, Suite 401
Muskegon, MI 49440

For more information, call  (231) 722-3852.

Taco Saturday at Mona Lake Boating Club

‎The public is invited to the Mona Lake Boating Club every Saturday September 5 – May 28 from 11:30am-2:00pm for their famous homemade tacos, taco salads and nachos!  Call 231-798-4011 for more information.

I, TOO, AM AMERICA: The Art of Bryan Collier

‎January 18-April 17, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “I, too, am America:  The Art of Bryan Collier.”  This exhibition features 15 large scale original artworks created by Bryan Collier for his picture book, I, Too, Am America, which illustrates the seminal poem, I, Too by Langston Hughes. Collier graduated from the Pratt Institute and was a former Program Director at the Harlem Horizon Institute. His accolades include the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award, Caldecott Medal, and Jane Addam’s Children’s Book Award. He was also a nominee for an NAACP image award for Outstanding Children’s Literary Work. Underwritten by the Folkert Family Foundation.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.