|
|
Judy Chicago and Contemporary Art
Thursday, April 1, 2010, 7:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Suzanne Eberle, Professor of Art History at Kendall College of Art and Design will introduce participants to the fascinating art of Judy Chicago, whose monumental work “The Dinner Party” remains one of the most important examples of early contemporary art. In addition to exploring the subjects and processes of Chicago’s work, you will also see how her ideas reflect late 20th century art practices such as historical referencing, collaborative production and feminist theory. Free and open to the public.
An Evening with Judy Chicago
Monday, April 5, 2010, 7:00 pm
Celebration Cinema North
Artist Judy Chicago will discuss her long career and show highlights of her work from different projects, series and periods, culminating in a discussion about her most recent work in glass. Sponsored by the West Michigan Women’s Studies Council. Free and open to the public.
Junior History Detectives
Thursday, April 8, 2010, 1:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Kids ages 9-12 can help solve some of history’s mysteries. First, Gina Bivens with the Public Museum will present “Look, Listen, Touch, Smell: Using Your Senses to become a History Detective.” Then Kevin Finney, Director of the Great Lakes Lifeways Institute will discuss “Bark Houses and Cattail Mats: Adventures in Building Native American Shelters.” Both are hands on experiences. Registration is required for this free event. Sign up at www.grpl.org/register or call 988-5400.
Teen Advisory Group
Saturday, April 10, 2010, 2:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
These monthly meetings gives teens the opportunity to give input on developing library programs and services. Teens will get volunteer hours for participating and free food at the meetings.
Family Flix: The Tale of Despereaux
Sunday, April 11, 2010, 2:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Families can come and watch the blockbuster film “The Tale of Despereaux” on the big screen. Bring your pillow and favorite stuffed animal and enjoy the movie. Pop and popcorn provided. Free and open to the public.
New Poetry from Three Local Poets: Patricia Clarke, Linda Nemec Foster and Robert Vander Molen
Tuesday, April 13, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Three local poets share their recent work in an evening just for poetry lovers. Free and open to the public.
Google Essentials
Wednesday, April 14, 2010, 2:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers and the Internet, students will be introduced to some of the tools and applications offered by Google. Attention will be given to gmail, google calendars, google docs, google maps and more! Free and open to the public.
Farmers and Artist Market
Saturday, April 17, 2010, 10:00 am
West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW (in parking lot)
Kick off our Earth Week celebration by visiting our market. Over 20 local farmers and artists will transform the parking lot into a bustling market. Farmers will be selling a variety of local and often free-range and chemical-free goods like maple syrup, honey, cheese, potatoes, greenhouse greens, and meat. Local artists will be selling handmade items like pottery, clothes, jewelry, soap, purses, crafts and more. Free and open to the public.
Earth Week Movies
Saturday, April 17, 2010, 11:00 am and 1:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Join us for two critically acclaimed films that explore various aspects of our environment. At 11:00 am, “Food, Inc.” and at 1:00 pm “The Cove.” Free and open to the public.
Introduction to Slide Presentations
Saturday, April 17, 2010, 2:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Designed for those who already have a working knowledge of computers, students in this class will learn how to create slide show presentations that can be used for business or personal use. Students will learn how to create slide shows in programs like PowerPoint complete with text, graphics, pictures and animation. Free and open to the public.
Bike Safety and Basic Repair
Monday, April 19, 2010, 6:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Daniel Koert, creator of the Wednesday Evening Rides and owner of the Commute Bike Shop, will demonstrate how to be safe while riding our bikes around Grand Rapids and how to save money by doing our own basic bike repair. Free and open to the public.
Teen Book Discussion Group
Tuesday, April 20, 2010, 4:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Teens ages 11-18 can come and discuss books they love. Come prepared to talk about the selected book and pick up a copy of next month’s book to read. This month we will be discussion “The Tomorrow Code” by Brian Falkner. Free and open to the public.
Scientists are the New Rockstars
Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
What happens when creative tinkering goes collective? Scott Beibin has his eye on today’s garage scientists, and the rise of maker culture within the DIY movement. As it gets easier and cheaper to prototype new things, a new generation of tinkerers and experimenters are creating new things that are beneficial to all – as art, design, sustainable technologies. Hear more about Scott’s experiments in ars technica (the art of technology) during this live multimedia spectacle exploring the fuzzy and quirky lines between hard science, social science, and metaphysics with hands-on examples of environmentally sustainable art and technologies. Free and open to the public.
Pandora’s Locks: How the St. Lawrence Seaway and Ocean Freighters Ruined the Great Lakes
Thursday, April 22, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Michigan Notable Books author Jeff Alexander will discuss his theory of how opening the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959 and allowing ocean freighters into the Great Lakes, accidentally unleashed an environmental disaster that will cause more damage than the Exxon Valdez oil spill. The Seaway was built to link Great Lakes shipping ports to ports around the world. The intent was to increase international commerce in the region. The Seaway did achieve that but there would be a high price to pay. Alexander will explain how foreign species that ocean freighters carry into the lakes in ballast water tanks are wreaking havoc on the Great Lakes, how this could have been prevented and why it wasn’t. Free and open to the public.
Green Clean
Saturday, April 24, 2010, 2:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Are you interested in making the switch to green cleaning in your home but are overwhelmed by the prices and variety of products out there? Do you wonder if green cleaning actually works? Green Earth Cleaning owners Becky VanDyke and Cassandra Hagedorn will demonstrate how easy, economical, and effective it is to make and use your own green cleaning products. Free and open to the public.
GRPL Anime Club
Monday, April 26, 2010, 6:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing one Japanese Animation, or “anime” film each time we meet, along with enjoying refreshments. This month we will be screening Ponyo by Miyazaki. For ages 11-18.
Trendy T-shirt Makeovers
Times and locations vary
Teens in grades 6-12 can make an old t-shirt into a fabulous new design. Free and open to the public.
Saturday, April 3
2:00 pm Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Monday, April 5
5:30 pm Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
Tuesday, April 6
5:30 pm Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Saturday, April 10
2:00 pm West Leonard Branch 0 1017 Leonard NW
Spring Break Fun with Geodes
Times and locations vary
Do you know what geodes are and how they are formed? Great Lakes Geoscience will answer the mysteries of geodes and give you many opportunities to explore what is inside. For kids ages 12 and under. Free and open to the public.
Tuesday, April 6
10:30 am Main Library – 111 Library St NE
2:00 pm West Side Branch – 713 Bridge NW
Wednesday, April 7
10:30 am Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
2:00 pm Van Belkum Branch – 1563 Plainfield NE
Thursday, April 8
10:30 am West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW
3:00 pm Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Friday, April 9
10:30 am Ottawa Hills Branch – 1150 Giddings SE
3:00 pm Madison Square Branch – 1201 Madison SE
Teen Cuisine
Times and locations vary
Author and chef Kathleen Hanna will help teens ages 13-18 create tasty, healthy meals and snacks. This program is limited to 9 teens per location. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Saturday, April 17
11:30 am West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW
3:00 pm Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
Recycled Journals
Times and locations vary
This workshop will turn old books into treasure. Join local crafter Gerald “Butch” Cash as he helps you transform an old beat up book into a useful notebook, journal, or sketchbook. Bring a book of your own, or choose from one of ours. Free and open to the public.
Monday, April 19
4:00 pm Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
Saturday, April 24
12:30 pm Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Rain Barrel Construction Party
Times and locations vary
The West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), will have everything you need to assemble your very own rain barrel. Rain barrels collect stormwater that is not soak into the ground. When stormwater runs through our community, it becomes dirty and polluted. It washed animal waste, garbage, fertilizers, chemicals, gas and oil from cars into our storm sewers. This pollution then flows into our streams, rivers and lakes. The rain barrels are free to Grand Rapids residents only. Registration is required – sign up at www.grpl.org/register.
Tuesday, April 20
6:30 pm Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Saturday, April 24
1:00 pm Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Container Gardening
Times and locations vary
Container gardening makes gardening possible for anyone who has access to a bit of sunshine. Members of the Heartside Gardeners will help you create a container garden—great for those without yards! Participants will leave with a bucket of Snap Peas or Potato seedlings. Free and open to the public.
Wednesday, April 21
4:00 pm Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
Saturday, April 24
10:30 am Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun!
Times and locations vary
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Thursday, April 1
4:00 pm Ottawa Hills Branch – 1150 Giddings SE
5:00 pm West Side Branch – 713 Bridge NW
Thursday, April 8
5:00 pm Madison Square Branch – 1201 Madison SE
Book and Media Swap
April 17-24, 2010
All library locations
Kids and teens can come to any GRPL location to swap books, DVDs, video games, and CDs. Bring what you don’t want or need and take something new home.
All library events are free and open to the public.
Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant DVD Release Party
Monday, March 1, 2010, 6:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Teens ages 11-18 can come watch “Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant” on the big screen. Popcorn and pop provided. Free and open to the public.
Legacy Landmarks: Walking with Women Who Left their Mark on Grand Rapids
Saturday, March 6, 2010, 10:00 am
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Marcella Beck of the Grand Rapids Public Library’s local history department will introduce a new self-guided walking tour of downtown sites significant in Grand Rapids women’s history. Learn about some of the women featured in the tour, and then take a guided walking tour.
Dr. Seuss is on the Loose!
Kids 10 and under will love this whimsical celebration of everyone’s favorite author. There will be stories, crafts and other fun activities. Free and open to the public.
Saturday, March 6
10:30 am Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
1:30 pm West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW
Word Processing II & Spreadsheets
Wednesday, March 10, 2010, 10:00 am
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Designed for those already familiar with the basics of word processing, this class covers more advanced formatting topics such as headers and footers, columns, tables, along with a basic overview of spreadsheets. Free and open to the public.
Base Ten: Giving Voice to Women and Science
Wednesday, March 10, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Base Ten, the first novel in the Women Writing Science Series published by The Feminist Press and the National Science Foundation, combines author Maryann Lesert’s love of the night sky with in-depth research into the challenges faced by women of science. Lesert will discuss how her central characters, jillians and Kera, and several real-life women of science bring women’s way of knowing into the study of the universe, often shaking up and challenging traditions along the way. Free and open to the public.
GRPL Anime Club
Monday, March 15, 2010, 6:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing one Japanese Animation, or “anime” film each time we meet, along with enjoying refreshments. This month we will be screening Outlaw Star, Cowboy Bebop, and Trigun. For ages 11-18.
Sisters, Schoolgirls and Sleuths: The Secrets of Girl Detectives
Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
As a child did you have a secret desire to drive a blue roadster and explore haunted mansions? Did the words “mystery” and “clue” give you’re a tingle of excitement? Then you were probably a girls mystery series fan. You were not alone. Girl mystery series books have been widely read and remain extremely popular today. Using examples from her extensive collection of Nancy Drew, Dana Girls, Judy Bolton and Trixie Belden books, Patricia Bravender will talk about classic girl mystery series published during the golden age—1930s-1960s. Today, series books for girls are not scorned by studied. Scholarly sleuths are uncovering the mystery of why we found them so compelling and the secret of how they may have influenced generations of American girls. Free and open to the public.
Teen Screens: The Twilight Saga – New Moon
Saturday, March 20, 2010, 2:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Are you Team Edward or Team Jacob? Teens are invited to attend a screening of the blockbuster movie The Twilight Saga: New Moon. Bring a friend or your favorite sparkly vampire or hunky werewolf and see New Moon on the big screen. Pop and popcorn provided. Free and open to the public.
Teen Cuisine
Locations vary
Author and chef Kathleen Hanna will help teens ages 13-18 create tasty, healthy meals and snacks. This program is limited to 9 teens per location. Registration is required at www.grpl.org/register.
Saturday, March 20
11:30 am Main Library – 111 Library St NE
3:00 pm Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Sojourner Truth in Michigan
Wednesday, March 24, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Already a recognized speaker on the antislavery, civil rights and woman’s rights circuits, Sojourner Truth (1797-1886) relocated to Michigan in 1857. Augmenting her reputation as a “doer of the Word” in Michigan during the Civil War, Reconstruction and its aftermath, Sojourner Truth was hailed in her own time as a “national landmark.” She dedicated her life to “making the world better” and so captured the American imagination that her true-to-life deeds often compete with myth. Cornell university professor Margaret Washington will highlight Sojourner Truth’s life and activities as one of Michigan’s most famous citizens. Free and open to the public.
Get a Clue with Nancy Drew
Thursday, March 25, 2010, 5:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Nancy Drew has been on the case since the 1930s. How has she changed through the years? Is Carolyn Keene really the author of the books? Solves these mysteries and test your knowledge of Nancy Drew with games, activities and a craft. A screening of the film “Nancy Drew” will take place at 6:30 pm. For ages 8 and up. Free and open to the public.
Teen Advisory Group
Saturday, March 13, 2010, 2:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
These monthly meetings gives teens the opportunity to give input on developing library programs and services. Teens will get volunteer hours for participating and free food at the meetings.
Go Fish!
Saturday, March 27, 2010, 2:00 pm
Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Find out how to get hooked on fishing during this fun and interactive family friendly program. Discover what fish you might catch in Michigan’s lakes, rivers and streams and how the Department of Natural Resources raises millions of fish every year to provide fishing opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Participants in this program will take part in a variety of hands-on activities and learn how easy, fun and economical it is to get outside and get fishing! Free and open to the public.
Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun!
Times and locations vary
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Thursday, March 4
4:00 pm Ottawa Hills Branch – 1150 Giddings SE
West Side Branch – 713 Bridge NW
Thursday, March 11
5:00 pm Madison Square Branch – 1201 Madison SE
Saturday, March 20
2:30 pm Van Belkum Branch – 1563 Plainfield NE
This program for kids in grades K-5 is sure to get them moving. Inertia…gravity…force…need we say more? Children will love experimenting with stunt planes, machines, even electricity. (Classes will not meet the week of April 5 due to EGR schools’ Spring Break)
Session A Location: Lakeside Art Room @ Lakeside School
Session B Location: Wealthy Art Room @ Wealthy School
Session C Location: Breton Downs Art Room @ Breton Downs
CODE DAYS DATES TIME RESIDENT NON-RES.
44421-A Mondays 3/22 – 5/3 3:35P-4:35P $99 $109
44421-B Wednesdays 3/17 – 4/28 3:35P-4:35P $99 $109
44421-C Tuesdays 3/23 – 5/4 3:35P-4:35P $99 $109
Register by calling 616-949-1750 or go online at EGR Parks & Rec
Kent Career Technical Center is an excellent resource for Juniors and Seniors in Kent County – whether they are bound for a 4 year university, community college, trade school or the open job market. With 6 different course pathways and over 30 courses, there is sure to be something to round out your student’s education while providing him or her with a skill that can be used immediately and/or will fatten up that all important admissions portfolio.
Courses fall into one of the following pathways:
- Arts and Communication
- Business, Management, Marketing & Technology
- Engineering, Manufacturing & Industrial Technology
- Health Sciences
- Human Services
- Natural Resources & Agriscience
For a complete listing of the courses available, you can download a PDF file of the entire set of offerings at KCTC.
Kent Career Tech Center Open House
March 4, 2010
6:30-8:00 pm
At the open house, you and your student can:
- Learn how to earn FREE College & High School Credit
- Jump start his or her career.
- Explore KCTC programs and meet the instructors.
- Enroll in one of over 30 programs including health care, aviation, engineering, culinary and more.
Admission is free and there’s no registration, so tell your friends and go see what the program has for your family.
Kent Career Technical Center
Kent ISD
1655 East Beltline, North of Leonard
Grand Rapids, MI
The following classes from Head to Heart Learning already began on January 29th, but if you’re interested in these (or similar classes for the future), I highly recommend you contact Rebecca Kirk at 616-550-0371 ASAP for additional information.
Amy, a GRLE subscriber, writes: “Our family has know Rebecca now for over 4 years and feel like she is family. My children love the days they spend with her….We have had a very small group for the last two years and thought it might be fun to re-open the opportunity for others to join in the fun.”
BIOLOGY
Addressing the Michigan High School Standards of Cells, Genetics, and Evolution, students will explore the marvels of life on our incredible blue planet from the macrocosm of “Spaceship Earth” with all of her impeccable life support systems, to the marvelous microcosm within each living cell. We’ll examine diversity and unity; homeostasis and adaptability; matter and energy; past and future. Some of the marvels we’ll peek at include organic chemistry, DNA replication, natural selection, and implications of GMO’s. Students will demonstrate understanding of concepts through art, drama, presentation, and career exploration.
Geared to high school and mature middle school students, classes meet on Fridays from 9:30 – 12:30 beginning on January 15, 2010. Class fee is $18 per class. Classes are located at 255 Briarwood Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, near Aquinas College. (Discounts are available for multiple students per family.)
LITERATURE CIRCLES
Exploring literature as an Art of Expression, students will use drawing, drama, discussion and journals to deepen understanding and appreciation for a variety of literary genres*. In addition to discussing each work as story, we will also examine such skills as word choice, structure, and voice as tools which the writer utilizes to create mood, pace, vivid word pictures, etc. (Additional literary vocabulary will also be explored and utilized.) Our goal is to expand our knowledge of the literary palette in order to recognize and appreciate the Art of Literature.
One circle will be tailored to high school aged students: this circle will meet on Fridays from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. Another circle will address the interests of middle school aged students and will meet on Fridays from 3:00 – 5:00. Both classes will begin on January 15, 2010. Class fee is $12 per class. Classes are located at 255 Briarwood Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, near Aquinas College. (Discounts are available for multiple students per family.)
Michigan’s Abolitionist Army
Tuesday, February 9, 2020, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
From the beginning of the 19th century, Michigan became a transit point for fugitives escaping from slavery. A veritable network of safe houses, sanctuaries, vigilance communities and traveling escorts developed throughout the state and gradually grew into a powerful Underground Railroad and Abolitionist Army. This Michigan network was so successful that their resistance was often cited in Congress as the debate raged for passing a new Fugitive Slave law. Professor Veta Smith Tucker will introduce the audience to the people and places involved in Michigan’s stand against slavery. Free and open to the public.
Teen Book Discussion Group
Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 4:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Teens ages 11-18 can come and discuss books they love. Come prepared to talk about the selected book and pick up a copy of next month’s book to read. This month we will be discussion “Stargirl” by Jerry Spinelli. Free and open to the public.
I + We = Us: Preserving and Sharing African American History
Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
For over 30 years, Mary Edmond’s personal mission has been to contribute to the awareness and understanding of African American history as an integral part of American history. This presentation is a result of her research and work to uncover African American history in the state of Michigan and right here in Grand Rapids. She will also share the results of her latest effort to research her own family genealogy. Free and open to the public.
ACT Prep Workshop
Saturday, February 20, 2010, 9:00 am
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
A good score on the ACT can help you get into the college of your choice. Professional academic coach Wendy Marty will show you techniques and tips to raise your ACT score. The workshop includes content review, reading comprehension techniques, testing tactics and specific ACT strategies. Each participant will take home a copy of Barron’s ACT 2009-2010.This is a free program limited to the first 50 high school juniors and seniors who register. Must be a resident of the City of Grand Rapids and have a Grand Rapids Public Library card to participate. Call 988-5400 to sign up.
Taste of Soul Sunday
Sunday, February 21, 2010, 1:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Join us as we celebrate African American history and culture at the fifth annual Taste of Soul Sunday. Sample African American art, music, literature, history and food. Free and open to the public. Call 616-988-5400 or visit www.grpl.org for more information.
GRPL Anime Club
Monday, February 22, 2010, 6:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing one Japanese Animation, or “anime” film each time we meet, along with enjoying refreshments. This month we will be screening Fruits Basket, Clover and Honey, and Boys Over Flowers. For ages 11-18.
Creative Ways to Preserve Your Family History
Tuesday, February 23, 2010, 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Learn a variety of tips and techniques useful for preserving and sharing family photos, stories, and memories. We will explore options that are both simple and involved, low- and high- tech. If this is something you’ve always wanted to do but struggled with, you will leave with some new ideas for approaching your project. Free and open to the public.
Family Flix: Astro Boy
Saturday, February 27, 2010, 2:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Families can come and watch the blockbuster film “Astro Boy” on the big screen. Bring your pillow and favorite stuffed animal and enjoy the movie. Free and open to the public.
Teen Advisory Group
Saturday, February 27, 2010, 2:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
These monthly meetings gives teens the opportunity to give input on developing library programs and services. Teens will get volunteer hours for participating and free food at the meetings.
Word Processing II & Spreadsheets
Saturday, February 20, 2010, 2:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Designed for those already familiar with the basics of word processing, this class covers more advanced formatting topics such as headers and footers, columns, tables, along with a basic overview of spreadsheets. Free and open to the public.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
Times and locations vary
Kids ages 9-14 can come the popular book series Percy Jackson & the Olympians by Rick Riordan. Adventures, games and treats suitable for Gods. Free and open to the public.
Saturday, February 13
10:30 am Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
Thursday, February 18
6:30 pm Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Saturday, February 20
11:00 am Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
The Life and Times of Harriet Tubman
Times and locations vary
Miz Rosie will engage the audience in an energized, dramatic, and interactive storytelling experience as she brings the life and times of Harriet Tubman to life.
Saturday, February 20
10:30 am Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
1:00 pm West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW
3:00 pm Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Guys Read
Times and locations vary
Guys Read is a web-based nonprofit literacy initiative that is designed to raise public awareness of the problem of boy’s literacy and to offer boys reading they will enjoy. Guys ages 10 and under will enjoy this program filled with stories, games and a visit from the Grand Rapids Griffins Mascott Griff. Free and open to the public.
Tuesday, February 9
6:30 pm Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Saturday, February 20
2:30 pm Van Belkum Branch – 1563 Plainfield NE
Saturday, February 27
2:00 pm West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW
Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun!
Times and locations vary
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Thursday, February 4
4:00 pm Ottawa Hills Branch – 1150 Giddings SE
West Side Branch – 713 Bridge NW
Thursday, February 11
5:00 pm Madison Square Branch – 1201 Madison SE
Saturday, February 20
2:30 pm Van Belkum Branch – 1563 Plainfield NE
A Whale of a Tall Tale Writing Contest
January 1 – February 28, 2010
All Library Locations
Kids – want to tell a “whopper” of a story? Write a story about an ordinary event in your life, or a fictional event, and then stretch that story into a “whopper” of a tall tale. Three winners will receive a $10 gift card to Pooh’s Corner Bookstore and will be featured on our website. To enter, submit your original story at www.grpl.org/kids. Limited to kids ages 5-12. Limit one story per author. Entries should be no longer than 500 words.
Creating a Legacy: The Women of Grand Rapids
January 11 – August 31, 2010
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
This exhibit challenges that myth that women had little impact on public life in the city. This exhibit is not intended to showcase the most influential or outstanding women in Grand Rapids history, rather these individuals represent many time periods and areas of endeavor in which women have helped give our community its distinctive way of life. Meet Dr. Pearl Kendrik and Grace Eldering who created headlines across the nation when they developed the vaccine against whooping cough. Read about Elizabeth Eaglesfield, the first women to practice law in Grand Rapids. (She later obtained a captain’s license and ran a Great Lakes shipping company with her son!) Consider the accomplishments of Evangeline Lamberts, the first woman elected to the Grand Rapids City Commission in 1961. These and many others created a living legacy for the City of Grand Rapids. Free and open to the public.
All events are free of charge.
Also, see the Community Calendar for listing of things to see and do in the GR Metro area.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs DVD Release Party
Tuesday, January 5, 2010, 5:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Families can come and watch the blockbuster film “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” on the big screen. Bring your pillow and favorite studded animal and enjoy the movie. Free and open to the public.
History Detectives: Following Clues to Michigan’s Past
Saturday, January 16, 2010, 1:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Historic preservationist Rebecca Smith-Hoffman and education historian Laurie Catherine Perkins will join GRPL staff member Jennifer Morrison in teaching participants how to discover more about Michigan’s history. Topics will include “The Peck Building: Searching for the Story of a Landmark,” “Adventure, Romance and Mystery: Cookbooks at Mid-Twentieth Century,” and “Talking Tombstones: Exploring the Mysteries of Oakhill Cemetery.” Registration is required. Visit www.grpl.org/register or call 988-5400 to sign up. Free and open to the public.
Teen Advisory Group
Saturday, January 16, 2010, 2:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
These monthly meetings gives teens the opportunity to give input on developing GRPL library programs and services. Teens will get volunteer hours for participating and free food at the meetings.
GRPL Anime Club
Monday, January 18, 2010, 6:30 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
The GRPL Anime Club will be showing one Japanese Animation, or “anime” film each time we meet, along with enjoying refreshments. This month’s screening will be “Evangelion 1.01 You Are (Not) Alone.” For ages 11-18.
Teen Book Discussion Group
Tuesday, January 19, 2010, 4:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Teens ages 11-18 can come and discuss books they love. Come prepared to talk about the selected book and pick up a copy of next month’s book to read. This month we will be discussion “Life as We Know It” by Susan Beth Pfeffer. Free and open to the public.
Game Design Workshop
Saturday, January 23, 2010, 1:30 pm
Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
Students will have the opportunity to discover the fundamentals of game design from ‘what makes a game fun’ to the discovery of game art. Taught by Ferris State university students and staff from their Digital Animation and Game Design Programs, students will explore 3d modeling, digital imaging, and 3d game engine applications. Students are expected to have a solid familiarity with a Windows PC computer environment. For ages 13-18. Limited to 10 students. Registration is required – sign up at www.grpl.org/register.
Global Warming: Changing Course
Wednesdays, January 6 through February 3 at 7:00 pm
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
Sharon Rydzewski, a member of the Northwest Earth Institute, will facilitate a five-week course for people interested in global warming and personal change. The program will explore the history and science of global warming, personal values and habits as they relate to climate change and personal actions to curb the effects of global warming. Participants are encouraged to read the book “Global Warming: Changing Course” before attending the sessions.
Branch Out and Enjoy the Fun!
A drop in event for families with children ages 5-12, each month select GRPL branches will have a variety of activities and surprises, including book-based celebrations and crafts, Wii gaming, and visits from community organizations.
Thursday, January 7
4:00 pm Ottawa Hills Branch – 1150 Giddings SE
4:00 pm West Side Branch – 713 Bridge NW
Thursday, January 14
5:00 pm Madison Square Branch – 1201 Madison SE
Saturday, January 16
2:30 pm Van Belkum Branch – 1563 Plainfield NE
Winter Storytimes
January 11 – March 6, 2010
Let the little ones join in with stories, songs and play activities while the older kids pick out their weekly books.
Tuesdays
11:00 am – Babytime (ages 0-18 months)
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
1:30 pm Storytime (ages 3 and up)
West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW
Wednesdays
10:30 am Storytime (ages 3 and up)
Madison Square Branch – 1201 Madison SE
10:30 am Babytime (ages 0-18 months)
Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
10:30 am Babytime (ages 0-18 months)
Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
11:00 am Storytime (ages 3 and up)
West Side Branch – 713 Bridge NW
11:00 am Toddlertime (ages 18 months – 3 years)
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
11:00 am Babytime (ages 0-18 months)
West Leonard Branch – 1017 Leonard NW
6:45 pm Storytime (ages 3 and up)
Ottawa Hills Branch – 1150 Giddings SE
Thursdays
10:30 am Storytime (ages 3 and up)
Seymour Branch – 2350 Eastern SE
10:30 am Storytime (ages 3 and up)
Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Fridays
10:30 am Storytime (ages 3 and up)
Van Belkum Branch – 1563 Plainfield NE
Saturdays
11:00 am Family Storytimes
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
A Whale of a Tall Tale Writing Contest
January 1 – February 28, 2010
All Library Locations
Kids – want to tell a “whopper” of a story? Write a story about an ordinary event in your life, or a fictional event, and then stretch that story into a “whopper” of a tall tale. Three winners will receive a $10 gift card to Pooh’s Corner Bookstore and will be featured on the GRPL website. To enter, submit your original story at www.grpl.org/kids. Limited to kids ages 5-12. Limit one story per author. Entries should be no longer than 500 words.
Special Exhibit – Creating a Legacy: The Women of Grand Rapids
January 11 – August 31, 2010
Main Library – 111 Library St NE
This exhibit challenges that myth that women had little impact on public life in the city. This exhibit is not intended to showcase the most influential or outstanding women in Grand Rapids history, rather these individuals represent many time periods and areas of endeavor in which women have helped give our community its distinctive way of life. Meet Dr. Pearl Kendrik and Grace Eldering who created headlines across the nation when they developed the vaccine against whooping cough. Read about Elizabeth Eaglesfield, the first women to practice law in Grand Rapids. (She later obtained a captain’s license and ran a Great Lakes shipping company with her son!) Consider the accomplishments of Evangeline Lamberts, the first woman elected to the Grand Rapids City Commission in 1961. These and many others created a living legacy for the City of Grand Rapids.
Afraid you and the kids are going to go batty now that the temperatures are starting to drop? Yeah, me too.
You can view the East Grand Rapids Winter 2009 Parks and Recreation Brochure and then click here to register online. If you don’t already have a username and password, just call the Parks and Recreation Department at 949-1750 to set one up. You must have your username and password registered before you’ll be able to register online. And, no. You don’t have to be an EGR resident to sign up for classes.
Think Parks & Rec is just basketball and basket-weaving? Try again. Check out some of these cool options!
Lacrosse
Teen Contemporary Dance (think: “So You Think You Can Dance”)
Youth Yoga
Suzuki Violin
Mandarin Chinese
LEGO Vehicles Engineering
ACT Preparation Workshop
Guitar
Comic Illustration
Swim Lessons
Diving
Fly Tying Basics
And many, many more.
YouthFit is a Physical Education program for homeschoolers held fall through Spring at East Hills Athletic Club (1640 East Paris Ave SE in Grand Rapids). Students can begin mid-session, if space available.
During the two semesters, games, sports and physical fitness activities are taught and played. The emphasis is on exercise and encouraging participants to involve themselves in daily fitness activities. Classes run two hours.
There are two group levels: Junior Youthfit (ages 4-5) and Youthfit (ages 6-16). You can pick between one of the two weekly sessions – Tuesdays and Fridays – or sign your child up for both. The current session will run 11 weeks, September 22 – December 11, with no classes Tuesday, November 24 or Friday, November 26.
Fee: $75 per session
Length: 2 hours
Tuesdays: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm for Youthfit/1:45pm – 3:45 pm for Junior Youthfit
Fridays: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm for Youthfit/1:45pm – 3:45 pm for Junior Youthfit
Please contact Youthfit coordinator Patty Tracy-Thewes (616-224-5444, x 229) for more details.
Homeschool: Carnivorous Plants
Tuesday, September 15 (Ages 5-12)
10 am-12 pm
FEE: $20 members, $27 non-members
Explore carnivorous plant habitat to learn how these meat-eating plants capture and digest their prey. Examine plants under microscopes, then create a carnivorous plant work of art to take home. Admission to Meijer Gardens included -great for homeschool exploration! Register at www.meijergardens.org/education.
Oil Painting for Kids
Saturday, September 26 (Ages 10-14)
9:30 am-12 pm
FEE: $25 members, $32 non-members
Explore oil painting techniques, from creating texture to adding detail. Create the illusion of a three-dimensional still life on a flat surface and take home a ready-to-frame painting on canvas panel. Register at www.meijergardens.org/education.
Fantastic Apple Turnovers
Saturday, November 21 (Ages 6-10 + Adult)
10 am-12 pm
FEE: $35 member pairs, $42 non-member pairs
Use an old-fashioned apple peeler, combine cinnamon, butter and sugar, then roll out the dough. Sampling is a must! Block-stamp a table runner to enhance a holiday table. Register at www.meijergardens.org/education.
Let’s Get Cooking: Super Cinnamon Rolls
Saturday, December 12 (Ages 6-10 + Adult)
10-11:30 am OR 1-2:30 pm
FEE: $30 member pairs, $37 non-member pairs
Work in pairs at our farmhouse to whip up a batch of cinnamon rolls using an easy “no fail” recipe and simple ingredients. Sampling is a must! Register at www.meijergardens.org/education.
Kids’ Studio Exploration
Tuesday, December 29 (Ages 5-10)
10 am-12 pm OR 1-3 pm
FEE: $20 members, $27 non-members
Move from station to station to model clay creations, paint with unusual artist’s tools and assemble a creative found object sculpture. Register at www.meijergardens.org/education.
|
|
