West Michiganders are getting ready to shake off the winter chill as they head out for their spring break getaways, and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority is ready to serve a record-breaking number of spring break travelers.
The airport is expected to be 16% above its 2023 spring break travel levels, which was a record-breaking year. They are estimating 195,000 passengers from March 27 through April 8. The busiest departure day for passengers is expected to be Thursday, March 28.
“We are thrilled to welcome passengers as they travel to their spring break destinations,” said Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “With our modern facilities, enhanced amenities, and new concession and retail concepts, we hope to provide guests with an unforgettable experience during their journey through the Airport.”
Passenger Appreciation Day March 29
The Airport’s annual Passenger Appreciation Day will be on Friday, March 29. If you would like to capture live music performances and special costume characters, they will be in the terminal from 5 to 10 a.m. and 3 to 7 p.m.
Top Spring Break Destinations: Orlando, Dallas, Punta Gorda, Tampa and Fort Meyers.
It’s that time of year when many Michiganders are preparing to flock to warmer weather. Whether you’re getting ready for a trip or looking to make the most of a staycation, Woodland Mall has much to offer.
Shoppers headed someplace sunny can find trendy outfits and must-have accessories at Woodland Mall to ensure a fashionable and fun week away.
Textured swim suits and beachwear are growing in popularity. Shoppers will find several options featuring ribbed material, crochet overlays and the like. And those who want to stand out at the beach or pool will be happy to discover neon is also making a comeback. Find great selections in suits and coverups from Aerie and Dry Goods.
Aerie swimsuit wall. (Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
Stripes are also having a moment. Retailers like Abercrombie & Fitch and American Eagle are offering linen shirts and swim trunks galore featuring this popular pattern in all shades and sizes.
Travelers will be able to protect their eyes in style with the new Ray-Ban collection and more high-quality eyewear at Sunglass Hut.
Sunglass Hut. (Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
Comfortable footwear is a must while exploring a new destination. A practical sandal is a great way to go for vacation. They’re easy to dress up or down for the beach or a night out on the town. Find the perfect pair from Shoe Dept. Encore.
Spending hours at the airport is easier when you’re feeling comfy and cute. You can achieve both with a matching sweatshirt and sweatpants set from Pink.
Pink matching sweats. (Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
Pair your airport loungewear with a fashionable duffel bag. Vera Bradley offers a wide variety of bags with organization solutions like slip and zip pockets you’ll love, in addition to wheeled options that make navigating the airport and hotels a breeze.
Vera Bradley duffel bags. (Courtesy, Woodland Mall)
For staycationers looking to get out of the house, Woodland Mall has opportunities for everyone to enjoy time off from school and work.
Guests can get that beach resort feel without traveling far from home by getting pampered at Lynny Nails, NYC Barber & Salon and Massage Works.
Couples looking for a classic date night can enjoy dinner at Black Rock Bar & Grill or The Cheesecake Factory and then catch a movie at Phoenix Theatres.
As West Michigan’s premiere shopping and family destination, Woodland Mall also offers a colorful children’s play area featuring “friendly monsters” to meet, “rocks and vines” to climb and tunnels to crawl through.
And there’s always some good old-fashioned retail therapy. Guests can shop for everything from new clothes, shoes and accessories to electronics, cosmetics and home goods with Woodland’s exclusive line-up of retailers, including Apple, Dry Goods, Forever 21, H&M, The North Face, Pottery Barn, Sephora, Williams-Sonoma and Von Maur – just to name a few.
After three years of limited offerings during the COVID pandemic, family–friendly activity options are once again available at The Salvation Army Kroc Center during Spring Break 2023 from April 3–7.
Open swim, climbing wall, and gymnasium hours are extended to help parents make sure they never hear, “I’m bored!” New this year, guests can use the Kroc’s online registration system to reserve an open swim session and pay in advance to cut down on wait times when they arrive.
Day passes are only $12 per person for all ages during Spring Break week, and as always, Kroc Center members get unlimited free access to all activities. All children age 11 and under must be supervised by an adult while visiting the Kroc Center. There is also a “family room” where parents and kids looking for a break can have snacks, play games, and more.
Those who may be looking for a place to celebrate Easter can also visit Kroc Church for special events on Easter Sunday, April 9. Activities include a breakfast, Easter egg hunt, and a 10 AM worship service. There will also be a Good Friday observance on April 7. Please see the Grand Rapids Kroc Church page on Facebook for more information.
“Spring Break has always been one of the most popular times of year at the Kroc,” said Major Carol Huffman, Senior Kroc Officer. “Our entire Kroc Krew is excited for the opportunity to welcome in families again for a week of fun close to home.”
Once Spring Break wraps up, the Kroc Center will be excited to also launch some new building renovations in April to better serve members, including the addition of new second-floor locker rooms, plus changes to the lobby to improve safety, traffic flows, and energy efficiency.
Visit GrKrocCenter.org or call 616-588-7200 for more information on open recreation hours and other details.
Just in time for Spring Break — and those staycationers looking to get out of the house but staying close to home — Woodland Mall will be open for more hours and offering special events for everyone to safely enjoy time off from school and work.
Starting Monday, April 5, the mall will be returning to pre-pandemic operating hours, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m., according to an announcement from the mall. And several events are planned including a Small Business Expo and Pokémon Go opportunities.
“For those families who still aren’t comfortable traveling, Woodland Mall is the perfect spring break destination,” Cecily McCabe, Woodland Mall marketing director, said in supplied material. “From shopping to games and other creative opportunities, we are eager to help families enjoy a safe and fun staycation experience.”
Woodland Mall will host a Small Business Expo in its Von Maur wing on Saturday, April 10, from 11 a.m.–7 p.m., where business owners will set up booths to showcase their products and engage with the community. Guests will in turn have the opportunity to learn more about these small businesses and support them.
With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time to build your own skateboard. Vans and Zumiez have all the gear needed to build a customized board.
Pokémon fans will also be able to collect free stickers and trading cards from GameStop throughout the week. As an added bonus, the mall has two Pokéstops for those playing Pokémon Go.
Families looking for fun can visit the Funshop Arcade located in the Macy’s wing and exploring the games and toys at Toysmark and Barnes & Noble.
And, of course, guests can also “get that beach resort feel without traveling far from home” by getting pampered at Lynny Nails, Tricho Salon or Massage Works.
“Choosing to spend spring break at the mall also benefits the retailers and restaurants and their employees who are still trying to recover from the pandemic,” McCabe said. “Visiting the mall is a great way to give our local economy a boost.”
Even after spring break, guests will continue to see new developments at the mall.
Backstage by Macy’s will celebrate its grand opening as a stand-alone business on the department store’s recently renovated second floor on Saturday, April 17. The shop offers men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, accessories and more at affordable prices. Offering prizes, gift cards and other exciting deals on opening day, shoppers won’t want to miss out on even greater savings.
Part of the spring break fun at the Grand Rapids Public Museum will be the food truck ART:Caribean Fusion Cuisine.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) has announced its spring break plans which will include live science shows, intriguing exhibits and planetarium shows, as well as festive food experience featuring a food truck from ART: Caribbean Fusion Cuisine along with an assortment of beverages and beer from City Built Brewing Company.
“For families enjoying a staycation for Spring Break or for those visiting Grand Rapids, the Museum offers a family fun-filled experience with exciting exhibits, science shows and more to keep kids learning while having fun,” said Kate Kocienski, the GRPM’s Vice President of Marketing & PR. “Our offerings cater to visitors of all ages and we’re eager to welcome everyone to the Museum to enjoy engaging activities in a low-risk environment.”
Explore larger-than-life sculptures made with more than 2 million LEGO® bricks in Sean Kenney’s Wild Connections Made with LEGO® Bricks to learn about animal endangerment, the balance of ecosystems, and mankind’s relationship with nature. This exhibition, produced by Imagine Exhibitions, depicts important topics that artist Sean Kenney holds dear, from protecting an animals’ habitat, to planting a garden, or using a bike instead of a car. Wild Connections further shows that just as LEGO® pieces interconnect, everything in nature is interconnected in a delicate balance. The narratives, along with the intricate displays, also explore the importance of conservation, the balance of ecosystems, predator/prey relationships, as well as the relationships between humankind and the natural world. This exhibition is open for a limited time. Tickets to Wild Connections must be purchased with general admission to the Museum.
“Bee” in “Sean Kenney’s Wild Connections Made with LEGOs” at the Grand Rapids Public Museum through May 2. (Supplied)
Additionally with general admission, analyze fossils from the last Ice Age in the Under the Arctic exhibit to learn about permafrost, as well as the people and the animals that live in this area, experience historic Grand Rapids made with LEGO® bricks and journey through three floors of core exhibits, with visitors favorites, West Michigan Habitats and the Streets of Old Grand Rapids. Advance ticket purchase required; early ticket purchase is recommended, as tickets will sell out given capacity limits. Visit grpm.org to purchase tickets.
The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium’s spring break shows will take place four times a day and include: Incoming!, Under Starlit Skies, Escher’s Universe, One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure and The Queen Light Show From Mercury to Mars. Planetarium shows are $4 with general admission to the Museum, $2 for Museum members, and $5 for planetarium only. Visit grpm.org/Planetarium for a complete list of showtimes and descriptions.
Visitors are required to reserve advance tickets at grpm.org for quick, easy access into the Museum during Spring Break. Kent County residents receive reduced admission to the GRPM, thanks to the passing of a Kent County millage in 2016, including free general admission for Kent County children 17 and under! Kent County adults and seniors receive reduced pricing as well as free parking.
While not the thousands of people it would normal host during Spring Break, the Salvation Army Kroc Center will be offering limited activities for the annual vacation time for families.
With the COVID-19 pandemic preventing many families from traveling during Spring Break, Kroc Center officials decided to step in and offer opportunities for families to get out of the house and have fun safely.
Families and groups are encouraged to sign up for a group session. (supplied)
“Spring Break is normally our busiest week of the year, but last year we were closed entirely as COVID was just starting to spread,” said Captain Bill Brutto, senior Kroc officer. “This year, we really want to give families a chance to take part in their favorite Kroc Center activities, while making sure safety is still the top priority.”
Each day, April 5–9, Kroc Center recreation areas will be available for exclusive private experiences between 12:30 and 2:30pm, when the rest of the building is closed to members for cleaning. Families are encouraged to gather with friends and relatives they feel comfortable creating a “pod” with to take advantage of the group activities.
The available activities include:
The Aquatics Center, including giant waterslide, lazy river, and more, with lifeguard supervision.
$350 for up to 35 total guests
The Gymnasium (two courts available), including several options for sports equipment, plus an attendant.
$125 for up to 15 total guests
The Worship and Performing Arts Center, including bounce houses and other games, plus an attendant.
$100 for up to 15 total guests
All guests will be expected to follow health and safety guidelines put in place by the State of Michigan’s epidemic orders while at the Kroc Center. This includes temperature checks and health screenings upon entry, along with requirements on face coverings during all activities (except swimming).
“While we would love to be able to offer the full Spring Break experience, it’s not possible with the capacity limitations we still have from the state,” Brutto said. “We felt this would be the next best way to give families opportunities to enjoy the Kroc in a way that helps them feel safe and comfortable.”
The Spring Break travel season was a popular one at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) as March passenger numbers helped record the busiest month in Airport history. March numbers increased 14.42-percent compared to March 2018, and GFIA is up 10-percent overall this year.
March 2019 beat out March 2018 for the record of busiest month in Airport history with 341,534 passengers in 2019 versus 298,487 passengers in 2018. In addition, first quarter 2019 marks the busiest first quarter ever with 871,710 passengers served from January 1 through March 31.
The Ford Airport has seen passenger increases in 68 of the last 75 months and 18 straight.
“We had another fantastic Spring Break period, and West Michigan passengers are proving that they love utilizing their local, affordable, easy airport,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our airline partners continue to add larger aircraft, more frequency in flights, and more nonstop destinations. We have a lot of exciting things on tap for 2019, and it’s encouraging to see us off to such a great start.”
The Airport is underway on Phase Two of its Gateway Transformation Project which includes updates to the baggage claim area, airline ticket counters, flooring and lighting; along with new restrooms and concessions. Updates on construction at the airport can be found here:https://www.grr.org/construction.php
As passenger numbers continue to grow at GFIA, those traveling are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight. Updated security screening information, tips on what to pack/not pack, and more information to make security screening smoother are available atwww.tsa.gov.
The growth is expected to continue further into 2019 with more air service coming to the Ford Airport. Airline partner Allegiant has announced three new nonstop destinations in 2019 as well as the addition of a maintenance base. Nonstop service to Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) began on April 5. Nonstop service to Nashville (BNA), and Savannah-Hilton Head (SAV) will begin in June.
From Kentwood’s Spring Break Club to the butterflies at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, there are plenty of things for area residents to do during next week’s spring break.
Below, I pulled together just some of the possibilities that could keep you and your family busier than if you had headed out.
Local students have fun during the Kentwood Spring Break Club which is offers April 1-5. (Supplied)
In Kentwood
The City of Kentwood will be offering its Spring Break Club April 1 – 5. The club will featured a week full of fun with gym games, arts and crafts, nature walks, gardening and much more. Students can participate the whole week or just for certain days. Registration is required, so make sure to visit the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, or call 616-656-5270.
“We are going to have kids six- to 12-years-olds here,” said Spencer McKellar, recreation program coordinator for the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department. We will do a number of different programs, active games in the gym. Maybe some nature walks if the weather cooperates, working in our kitchen and a number of other things.”
In Wyoming
Depending on weather, many of the area parks will be open. Wyoming’s Pinery Park is the only park in the city where the restrooms are open year around. The park features a paved walking trail, a playground and recently updated fitness equipment.
The Annual Gem and Mineral Show will take place at Rogers Place April 4 – 7. (WKTV)
The Indian Mounds Rock & Mineral Club will be hosting its annual show April 4-6 at Rogers Plaza, 972 28th St. SW. The show is free and features a number of demonstrations, exhibits, rock and mineral identification and vendors. The event is from 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m .Thursday and Friday and 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday.
Head to Camp
Get close to the animals at the John Ball Zoo which will be hosting its spring break day camps April 1-4. Slumber near the chimpanzees at the zoo’s spring break overnight on April 5. Registration is required for both events, so call 616-336-4300.
Blandford Nature Center‘s spring break camps are currently sold out but there is the Kitchen Dyeing Class April 6. This workshop will cover safety/clean up procedures and how to prepare materials for dyeing. Each participant will leave with enough dyed fiber samples to fill in a small dye journal. The program is for 13 and older with cost being $40/members and $45/non-members. Registration is required, so visit blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Dinosaurs and TOYS! will be the theme of the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s spring break activities. (Supplied)
Dinosaurs, oh my!!
The Grand Rapids Public Museum will have extended hours to 7 p.m. April 1 – 7. Activities will be dinosaur- and toy-inspired, celebrating the museum’s current exhibits “TOYS!” and “Expedition: Dinosaur.” Participates will be able to make their own dinosaur, sock monkey, headbands, dinosaur fossils and more. Join the GRPM on Saturday, March 30 and Saturday, April 6 for a special dinosaur science in the Saturday Curiosity Labs. Play over-sized games including Chess and Connect Four.
Spring break activities are included with general admission/ For more, visit grpm.org.
“A Decade at the Center: Recent gifts and Acquisitions” is at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. (Supplied)
It’s Free
Or head over to the Grand Rapids Art Museum, which, for spring break, is free for all youth ages 17 and under. Admission includes free entry to the museum’s current exhibitions which include “A Decade at the Center: Recent Gifts and Acquisitions” and “A Legacy of Love: Selections from the Mable Perkins Collection.” The museum also has extended its drop-in studio hours for the week. The drop-in studio will be from 1 to 4 p.m. March 30, April 2 and 6. For more information, visit artmuseumgr.org.
Blue Colombia butterfly, (Supplied)
Butterfly Effect
When the butterflies take over the Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, you know its spring. The Fred & Dorothy Pitcher Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition will be open with Gardens hosting extended hours during spring break. Outdoor children’s activities will be taking place at the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden such as a giant butterfly puzzle, butterfly-themed puppet show, the butterfly maze and story time. Activities vary daily, so check the Information center for what is happening or visit meijergardens.org.
Movie Night
The popular Flick’s Family Film Fest runs through April 11. Films are free to children 12 and under and $5 for anyone 13 and older. For the week of spring break, the Fest will feature Warner’s “Smallfoot” and the 2019 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” Check with local theaters for showtimes.
A Monster and Peas
The Grand Rapids Ballet will present another kid-friendly ballet for the entire family by bringing to life the beloved children’s book “The Monster Who Ate My Peas.” The performances features the apprentices and trainees of the Grand Rapids Ballet and choreographed by the Grand Rapids Ballet School Junior Company Director Attila Mosolygo. Showtimes are 11 a.m. April 1-5. Tickets are $7 and available through grballet.com.
Booking It
The Kent District Library is always a source for spring break fun and KDL has the week “booked” with activities for all ages. Author and puppeteer Kevin Kammeraad along with Wimee and friends will be presenting a show on wordplay, puppet, music and movement. Kammeraad and company stop at the KDL Wyoming branch April 5. Other KDL programs include an Escape Room, Coding Camp for Kids, Family Movie, and a Disney Movie Marathon. For a complete list of spring break activities, visit kdl.org.
Crash, the river rascal, is ready for his favorite team to return to Fifth Third Park. Whitecaps season opener is April 6. (Supplied)
Play Ball!
Have a third through sixth grader looking to improve their throwing arm? Grand Valley State University will be hosting its Little Throws clinic April 1 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Registration is required. Contact Coach Denard at denards@gvsu.edu for more information.
Speaking of baseball, the Detroit Tigers opener is April 4 against the Kansas City Royals and our own beloved Whitecaps’ opening day is April 6. The Whitecaps will face off against the South Bend Cubs. For the full schedule, visit the Whitecaps website.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is coming off a 2018 year which saw a record 3.2 million passengers, and the Airport expects to see the high volume trend continue through its busiest time of the year – Spring Break.
Due to additional passenger volume beginning this month and continuing through April, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects longer security lines and urges passengers to arrive at the Airport at least two hours prior to departure time.
In order to expedite the security screening process, passengers should carefully consider the contents of their checked luggage and carry-on bags. The TSA recommends wearing shoes that are easy to remove, having identification and boarding passes ready to present at security checkpoints, removing all items from pockets, avoiding bedazzled and jeweled clothing, limiting heavy jewelry, and ending all cell phone conversations prior to screening. In addition, removing heavy food items such as cheese and fudge, along with granular and powdered items like sugar, from your carry-on bag, will also greatly speed up security screening.
“With a record-setting 2018 and over three million passengers served last year, we are busier than ever and that means it is crucial for our travelers to arrive early because our passenger numbers continue to grow,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “Our TSA screening will be staffed with more officers to accommodate the extra traffic, but passengers can do their part by simply arriving early to allow adequate time for screening and some fun as well.”
Passengers traveling through GFIA on select Spring Break travel dates will be treated to the annual Passenger Appreciation Days, compliments of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board. This bon-voyage celebration will take place from Thursday, March 28th through Saturday, March 30th each day from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the Airport’s Grand Hall Meet & Greet area. Passenger Appreciation Days events include free refreshments, food, giveaways, prize drawings, contests, and more!
“We are excited to bring back our Passenger Appreciation Days – a tradition at the Ford Airport for 17 years,” said GFIA Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. “This is one way we can thank our community for supporting our airport, and our passengers will have some fun before heading out on their vacations.”
For passengers wanting to partake in the Passenger Appreciation Days festivities, the Airport encourages them to allow even more travel time.
The TSA also encourages passengers to utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one- quart zip-top bag.
Additional 3-1-1 Information:
Deodorant: Stick deodorant is not limited to 3.4 ounces or less, but gel or spray deodorant is.
Suntan & Sun Block Lotion: Lotions fall under the 3-1-1 procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
Makeup: Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
Beverages: Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.
Questions about TSA procedures and upcoming travel can be addressed to the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673 or @AskTSA or Twitter.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is preparing for its busiest time of year with helpful travel reminders, and a bit of fun mixed in.
Due to additional passenger volume beginning this month and continuing through April, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects longer security lines and urges passengers to arrive at the Airport at least two hours prior to departure time.
In order to expedite the security screening process, passengers should carefully consider the contents of their checked luggage and carry-on bags. The TSA recommends wearing shoes that are easy to remove, having identification and boarding passes ready to present at security checkpoints, removing all items from pockets, avoiding bedazzled and jeweled clothing, limiting heavy jewelry, and ending all cell phone conversations prior to screening. In addition, removing heavy food items such as cheese and fudge, along with granular and powdered items like sugar, from your carry-on bag, will also greatly speed up security screening.
“We are looking forward to another Spring Break season, which is our busiest time of the year. Because of that, it is important for those traveling – especially if you haven’t flown recently – to review TSA’s website,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “Our TSA staff does a wonderful job, and the more prepared travelers are, the smoother the screening experience will be for everyone.”
Passengers traveling through GFIA on select Spring Break travel dates will be treated to the annual Passenger Appreciation Days, compliments of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board. This bon-voyage celebration will take place from Thursday, March 29th through Saturday, March 31st each day from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the Airport’s Grand Hall Meet & Greet area. Passenger Appreciation Days events include free refreshments, food, giveaways, prize drawings, contests, and more!
“Our Spring Break travelers who return year after year know how much fun you can have prior to your vacation with our Passenger Appreciation Days,” said Gill. “This is one of the ways we are thanking our community for supporting our airport, and our passengers will have some fun before heading out on their trips.”
For passengers wanting to partake in the Passenger Appreciation Days festivities, the Airport encourages them to allow even more travel time. GFIA is coming off a 2017 year which saw a record 2.8 million passengers, and high volumes continue into 2018.
The TSA also encourages passengers to utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in containers with a 3.4 ounce maximum capacity, and place them in a clear, plastic one- quart zip-top bag.
Additional 3-1-1 Information:
• Deodorant: Stick deodorant is not limited to 3.4 ounces or less, but gel or spray deodorant is.
• Suntan & Sun Block Lotion: Lotions fall under the 3-1-1 procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
• Makeup: Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
• Beverages: Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 ounces or less bottles in yourcarry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
• Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.
Questions about TSA procedures and upcoming travel can be addressed to the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673 or @AskTSA on Twitter.
Spend this Spring Break at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) to enjoy intriguing exhibits, planetarium shows and hands-on activities. Visitors can explore the Earth’s most amazing creatures at current traveling exhibits, Whales: Giants of the Deep and Creatures of Light! Experience the Chaffee Planetarium’s newest additions, Escher’s Universe and Eclipses and Phases of the Moon, with additional show times daily.
This year, the GRPM invites families to enjoy special Spring Break activities planned from March 31 to April 9 and have even more time for fun and learning. Visitors are able to come eye to eye with whales in Whales: Giants of the Deep, and discover the wonder of bioluminescence in Creatures of light until 8 p.m. April 3 – 7 with the Museum’s special extended hours.
Whales: Giants of the Deep is a fully immersive exhibit bringing visitors up close to these mysterious creatures.Also, during spring break, current and new members will be able to visit Whales FREE of charge.
Recently opened, Creatures of Light gives visitors a unique experience of moving through diverse environments of creatures that use bioluminescence to glow. Explore and interact with familiar organisms such as fireflies to the unfamiliar of deep sea fish that use this phenomenon to attract a mate, lure prey or protect themselves. This exhibit is free with admission.
“Whales: Giants of the Deep” will be free to current and new members.
Visitors will enjoy free hands-on activities in the Museum’s main floor Galleria, including watercolor printmaking, making your own origami whales and playing BIG games. Activities will take place Monday, April 3, through – Saturday, April 8, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 2:30 – 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 2 and 9.
Visit the Chaffee Planetarium for the Museum’s newest shows. During Spring Break, the Museum offers additional show times for the most popular shows.
Newly opened, Eclipses and Phases of the Moon takes a trip through space, allowing viewers to discover how Solar and Lunar eclipses happen and the mythology surrounding them. Visitors will be able to experience the wonder of these eclipses in the Chaffee Planetarium and given the knowledge on how to safely see the astronomical event of a lifetime! The new planetarium show, Escher’s Universe, shows the viewer a peek into the mind and world of artist, astronomer, and mathematician, M.C. Escher. This show features the mathematically inspired graphic arts of Escher through an art documentary. It explores Escher’s marvel of shapes, 3D reconstructions, dual worlds and unreal buildings to revealing Escher’s continuous search for knowledge.
Planetarium shows are $4 with general admission, $5 for planetarium only tickets and free to Museum members. For more information on Spring Break activities including planetarium shows and for tickets visit grpm.org.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is preparing for its busiest time of year with helpful travel reminders, and a bit of fun mixed in.
Due to additional passenger volume beginning this month and continuing through April, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. GFIA is also under construction for the Gateway Transformation Project, which affects areas of passenger screening and the terminal Grand Hall. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects longer security lines.
In order to expedite the security screening process, passengers should carefully consider the contents of their checked luggage and carry-on bags. The TSA recommends wearing shoes that are easy to remove, having identification and boarding passes ready to present at security checkpoints, removing all items from pockets, avoiding bedazzled and jeweled clothing, limiting heavy jewelry, and ending all cell phone conversations prior to screening. In addition, removing heavy food items such as cheese and fudge, along with granular and powdered items like sugar, from your carry-on bag, will also greatly speed up security screening.
“We are looking forward to another Spring Break season, which is our busiest time of the year. Because of that, it is important for those traveling – especially if you haven’t flown recently – to review TSA’s website,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “Our TSA staff does a wonderful job, and the more prepared travelers are, the smoother the screening experience will be for everyone.”
Passengers traveling through GFIA on select Spring Break travel dates will be treated to the annual Passenger Appreciation Days, compliments of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board. This bon-voyage celebration will take place from Thursday, Macy 30 – April 1 from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the Airport’s Grand Hall Meet & Greet area. Passenger Appreciation Days events include free refreshments, food, giveaways, prize drawings, contests, and more.
“Our Spring Break travelers who return year after year know how much fun you can have prior to your vacation with our Passenger Appreciation Days,” said Gill. “This is one of the ways we are thanking our community for supporting our airport, and our passengers will have some fun before heading out on their trips.”
For passengers wanting to partake in the Passenger Appreciation Days festivities, the Airport encourages them to allow even more travel time.
The TSA also encourages passengers to utilize the 3-1-1 rule with liquids, gels and aerosols. Put all liquids in 3.4 ounce containers and place them in a clear, plastic one-quart zip-top bag.
Suntan & Sun Block Lotion: Lotions fall under the 3-1-1 procedures mentioned above. As well as the aerosol spray lotions. Sunblock sticks do not fall under this rule.
Makeup: Any liquid makeup cosmetics such as eyeliner, nail polish, liquid foundation, etc. should be placed in the baggie. That goes for perfume as well. Powder makeup is fine.
Beverages: Wine, liquor, beer, and all of your other favorite beverages are permitted in your checked baggage. You can also bring beverages packaged in 3.4 oz. or less bottles in your carry-on bags in the 3-1-1 baggie.
Sporting Goods: Golf clubs, tennis rackets, baseball bats (including the mini slugger bats), cricket bats, lacrosse sticks, bows and arrows, hockey sticks, scuba knives, spear guns, etc. are all prohibited from being carried onto the plane. However, you can have them checked as luggage.
Questions about TSA procedures and upcoming travel can be addressed to the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673 or @AskTSA on Twitter.
Spring break is nearly here and you know what that means — a lot of extra time for kids to get antsy, especially if you plan on staying home. No worries! The Downtown Market has the perfect recipe for keeping kids ages 7-11 engaged — take a trip around the world without leaving Grand Rapids!
KIDS SPRING BREAK GLOBETROTTERS
Doing a staycation this spring break? The Downtown Market can help! Spring break classes will take kids around the globe as they make foods such as Jamaican jerk chicken skewers, Asian egg rolls, Norwegian elk sliders and Madagascan marshmallows on the braai. For kids ages 7-11.
Tues., April 4, 10 am-12:30 pm — $50/child
Wed., April 5, 10 am-12:30 pm — $50/child
Thu., April 6, 10 am-12:30 pm — $50/child
KIDS SPRING BREAK ROADTRIPPERS
For the young domestic traveler, you’ll visit a few delicious U.S. destinations that are sure to expand kids’ culinary knowledge. Kids will cook up tasty Memphis barbecue, Chicago-style hot dogs and southwest veggie quesadillas. Not to be forgotten, the Floria orange sorbet will have your kids asking, “Are we there yet?” For kids ages 7-11.
Tues., April 4, 2:30-5 pm — $50/child
Wed., April 5, 2:30-5 pm — $50/child
Thu., April 6, 2:30-5 pm — $50/child
Click here for the complete April 2017 culinary calendar.
Robots rule – at least for Spring Break 2016 as several area organizations have programs around robots and science.
Leading off the robot mania is Kent District Library’s Wyoming Branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW, with the KDL LAB Maker Break April 4 – 7 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. According to the KDL’s press materials “If robots and smashing and rebuilding things is your kid’s idea of a great time, then do we have the event for you!”
The Grand Rapids Community College Manufacturing Trailer will be at the branch Monday through Thursday with a 3D printer, virtual welder and more to explore. Also on Monday, there will be 11 different STEAM-based activities including Snap Circuits, LittleBits Electronics, Robot Rumble as well as demonstrations from local robotics groups.
Thursday, Spanish-speaking staff from Grandville Avenue Arts and Humanities will be on hand as Maker Break week wraps up.
The Grand Rapids Public Library also focuses on robots and programming with its spring break program Teen [Tech]Knowledgy Spring Workshop from 2 – 4 p.m. April 4 at the Grand Rapids Main Library, 111 Library St. NE. Participants will be able to create and program a robot using the Lego Mindstorm Education EV3 base set and software. This program is for grades 7 – 12. For more information, visit grpl.org.
And then there is The Robot Zoo at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, the basis for the Museum’s Spring Break programs. The Museum’s Galleria will be filled with hands-on crafts and activities that are free with general admission. Create your own robotic creature to take home and play with oversized games. Activities will take place in the Museum’s Galleria Monday, April 4 through – Saturday, April 10, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Robot Zoo will be open extended hours until 8 p.m. all during Spring Break and the Chaffee Planetarium features the new original show Starlight Safari and Breaking News from Outer Space and the return of Dark Side: The Light Show. For more information, visit grpm.org.
Not to be left out on the robots theme, the Second Annual FIRST Robotics Competition returns to the East Kentwood High School, 6230 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Friday and Saturday, April 1 and 2. This high-tech sporting event will produce excitement and energy for participants and spectators alike, as teams compete for honors and recognition that reward design excellence, sportsmanship, teamwork and more.
The 41st Annual Gem and Mineral Show will take place at Rogers Place April 7 – 9. (Courtesy of Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Also taking place and in the realm of the world of science is the 41st Annual Gem & Mineral Show, which this year returns to Rogers Plaza, 972 28th St. SW. The event is from 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. April 7 and 8 and from 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, April 9, and features an array of mineral specimens, crystals, fossils, beads, and more. Demonstrations will be taking place along with rock and mineral identification, displays and exhibits and children’s activities. For more information, visit www.indianmoundsrockclub.com
The City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department will host a Spring Break Fun Club April 4 – 8 at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. Hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Activities include sports, games, arts and crafts, gym and outdoor fun. Cost is $25 per day or $85 per week. Contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 656-5270 to register.
Some other spring break activities:
The Grand Rapids Art Museum opens “Maurice Sendak: Where the Wild Things Are” on April 9. (Courtesy of Grand Rapids Art Museum)
The Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center NW, opens on April 9. The six-week exhibition, which closes May 22, features original drawings, prints and posters by the children’s book author in celebration of book’s 50th anniversary. For more information, visit artmuseumgr.org.
Craig’s Crusisers, 5730 Clyde Park SW, hosts unlimited fun every Wednesday with $25 wristbands from 4 – 9 p.m. For more information, visit craigscruisers.com
John Ball Park Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton St., will be having a Zoobilee during spring break, April 4 – 8. Activities include special animal feeding times, an opportunity to meet the animal keepers and learn more about the animals at the zoo. For specific activities and days, visit jbzoo.org.
John Ball Zoo also offers Spring Break Day Camps for kindergarten through 5th grade. April 4 and 5 is Just Zoo It! and April 6 and 7 is Who Dung It? There is also the Spring Break overnight, Starlight Safari, April 8 to April 9, for students in third through sixth grades. Visit the website to register.
The Salvation Army KROC Center, 2500 S. Division Ave., will be offering special activities and entertainment such as extended open swim hours and sports tournaments April 4 – 8. Sponsored by the National Heritage Academies, the Spring Break activities are free for members. Non-members can purchase a day pass which is $5.50 for ages 11 and younger and $7.50 for ages 12 and up. Visit grkroccenter.org for more information.
The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave. NW, will have all kinds of Spring Break activities from April 2 – 10. There will be interactive dance, magic shows, and storyteller Kevin Kammeraad. For a complete list of events, visit grcm.org.
Shows:
“Alvin & the Chipmunks: Road Chip” runs April 1 – 7 as Flick’s Family Film Fest. (Photo courtesy of Flick’s Family Film Fest)
Flick’s Family Film Fest is currently running at all Celebration! Cinemas, including Celebration! South Cinema, 1506 Eastport Dr. SE (across from the East Kentwood High School). Alvin & the Chipmunks: Road Chip runs April 1 – 7 and Kung Fu Panda 3 is April 8 – 14. Movies are free for children ages 12 and under and $5 for ages 13 and older.
The Grand Rapids Ballet brings back its popular Spring Break for Kids program April 5 – 7. With two performances each day of a half-hour, family-friendly ballet with the fun starting at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. each day. Tickets for these shows do sell out, so if possible purchase early. For more information, visit grballet.com.
For those comic book lovers, Marvel Universe Live! comes to Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. Spidy, Hulk and even Thor will battle those dastardly villains tonight at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 11:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets start at $27.50. Visit vanandelarena.com for more information.
