Join us as we break away from the everyday! Monday, July 31st our Pre-Conference Activities will inspire your creativity, expand your understanding or perhaps bring out your adventurous side. Be sure to add one of our conference Immersion Experiences when registering! There are limited spots so don't delay! But the fun doesn't end there! Join us on Tuesday evening, August 1st, at Bell's Eccentric Café for a memorable evening networking and fun!
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Colors & Cocktails at Hilton Garden Inn Monday, July 31, 2023 | 2:30 - 5:00PM
Enjoy a fun and creative afternoon with Colors and Cocktails, the Mobile Art Party!! Paint any glassware of your choosing while enjoying snacks and beverages at the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Kalamazoo (HGI). Choose between a flower vase, stemless wine glass, beer stein and more to paint your masterpiece! Receive step by step instruction from owner Lauren and her talented team of art instructors. Follow one of their examples or bring in a picture of your own choosing and Lauren and her team will help you bring your vision to life; you will leave with something you’re happy with. Learn techniques, terminology and spark the creativity in Colors and Cocktails! |
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Guitar Factory & MicroBrewery TourMonday, July 31, 2023 | 1:45 - 5:30PM Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes personalized tour of historic Heritage Guitars; the former original site of Gibson Guitars. For decades, Heritage Guitars has been crafting the finest American-made guitars built on the foundations of tradition, craftsmanship and authenticity. It is this very ethos and dedication to keeping the spirit of guitar-building alive that has been consistent since the very first day we opened. During the spring of 1985, several Kalamazoo guitar luthiers, passionate about the tradition of handcrafting beautiful high quality electric guitars, purchased space at the iconic 225 Parsons Street factory along with its original guitar-making equipment. After this experience, head down to Brewery Outre's Taproom for flights and a behind the curtain look with Ted Linabury, Founder and Head Brewer at one of Kalamazoo’s newest and most unique microbreweries. NOTE: Registrants will be divided into two groups.
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Rock Climbing & Juicy LeafMonday, July 31, 2023 | 3 - 6:30PM For those into wellness and a little adventure, this is your opportunity to enjoy a little of both! Climb Kalamazoo offers a unique climbing experience for all ability levels. The location has 10,500 sq. feet of space, which include a dedicated bouldering cave. Professionals will be available during your visit to provide guidance and support. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy freshly pressed juices from Juicy Leaf! This local business offers a variety flavors with a mix of fruits and veggies – all with your health in mind! You will certainly end this experience feeling energized and refreshed! If you’re having so much fun that you think you can’t stop, you are able to stay until the end of the day! |
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An Evening in the Sky!Monday, July 31, 2023 | 6:30PM - 9:30PM Join colleagues for an unforgettable evening at the AirZoo in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where excitement takes flight and delights are served! Savor tantalizing fare and cocktails as you wander through the captivating exhibits, immersing yourself in the rich history of aviation and aerospace. With more than 100 rare and unique air and spacecraft, hands-on science stations, interactive exhibits and flight-based rides, this Smithsonian-affiliated museum has something for everyone. From the awe-inspiring aircraft displays to the interactive flight experiences, the AirZoo offers an exceptional blend of entertainment and education. Unleash your curiosity, indulge in culinary delights, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the skies at the AirZoo! |
Location3101 E. Milham Rd. |
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Dinner & Fun @ Bell’s Eccentric CaféTuesday, August 1, 2023 | 6:15PM - 8:30PM Join us at Bell’s Eccentric Café for a memorable evening of networking, fun, and the acoustic talents of Larry Lowis while enjoying great food and craft beer! Bell’s Brewery is the oldest existing craft brewery east of Colorado creating unique and inspired craft beer since 1985. To create an immersive experience around their brewing, they opened an onsite pub, the Eccentric Café, in June of 1993. You’ll see several notable beers on tap like Oberon and Two Hearted Ale, the #1 IPA in North America, but you’ll also be able to try from plenty of unique varietals and experimental ales that are only available at Bell’s Eccentric Café. Today, the establishment has grown to include Bell’s Back Room for private parties and functions, and an outdoor Beer Garden which provides a state-of-the-art music venue with live music and performances year-round. With its unique charm, cozy ambiance, and exceptional service, we hope you’ll join us for a memorable Kalamazoo experience at Bell’s Eccentric Café! |
Location355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. |
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