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These are the results of the Kalamazoo Gazette’s third annual Readers’ Choice Awards where our readers select the best of the best of Southwest Michigan.
A record number of votes were submitted this year through print and online ballots. More than 2,400 people cast more than 7,000 votes in the five main categories — Arts & Entertainment, Dining, Shopping, Services and Sports & Leisure. More than 1,300 people participated in 2008 and more than 1,500 people in 2009.
Thank you for voting and be sure to fill out a ballot next year.
• See results from 2008 and 2009.
Here are this year's Arts & Entertainment results:
Nearly four years ago this national chain brought the movies back downtown. It was the first multi-screen theater of its size in the city, and with its digital projection, massive sound and stadium seating, people in town have no need to drive out of town. For the third year in a row, readers have chosen the Rave as their favorite place for a flick. The Rave also keeps a connection with the community; in addition to the Hollywood heavy-hitters, they have shown locally-produced films such as "Kalamazoo, River: U.S." and "Shaken Daddy Syndrome," or independents such as "Like Dandelion Dust," based on Battle Creek-raised author Karen Kingsbury's novel.
Contact: 180 Portage St., 269-381-5732,
First Runner-Up
Kalamazoo 10
The multiplex has seating and digital sound, plus live theater-only broadcasts — from live opera at the Metropolitan to the bad-movie-mocking of the "Mystery Science Theater 3000."
Contact: 820 Maple Hill Drive, 269-345-7469, gqti.com
Second Runner-Up
Celebration! Crossroads
Fifteen screens with a wide choice of flicks, digital projection, and high-backed seats.
Contact: 6600 Ring Road, Portage, 269-325-7469, celebrationcinema.com
Honorable Mention
Little Theater, corner of Oakland Drive and Oliver Street, WMU campus, wmich.edu/littletheatre
WMU's auditorium brings in the biggies, such as Bob Dylan and "Wicked." A guy with a guitar or a huge musical can feel at home there, thanks to its large stage, three tiers of seats and a modern sound system.
Miller, the third-largest theater in Michigan, has hosted the big shows since 1968, for over 7.5 million people. It also has been a stage for the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, Kalamazoo Concert Band and other area groups. Designed with acoustics in mind, Miller has kept up with technology, like with the new Yamaha Active Field Control System, to make sure its 3,500 seats all get the best sound.
Contact: WMU campus, 269-387-2300,
First Runner-Up
State Theatre
Rock, blues, comedy, and the occasional hip-hop act all have vintage surroundings at the State. The theatre's authentic 1920s vaudeville/silent film house look accentuates any performance with old-time class.
Contact: 404 S. Burdick St., 269-345-6500, kazoostate.com
Second Runner-Up
The Strutt
What used to be small back-room shows at the coffeehouse/bar have grown to be big shows with national acts from the alternative music scene that pack the main room.
Contact: 773 W. Michigan Ave., 269-492-7200, thestrutt.com
Honorable Mention
The Union Cabaret & Grille, 125 S. Kalamazoo Mall, 269-384-6756
In past Readers' Choices, they always seem to win or place in the dance category. What better way to bump into someone than to bump bodies on the dance floor?
The Bull caters to country, college and urban crowds with country, pop, R&B and other sounds to get people moving on a state-of-the-art dance floor. Also bringing people in are the Steak Pit's beef-based menu -- you can get the "Steak Salad," but there is also a "No Bull Salad" for you vegetarians -- games, and the famous mechanical bull, "El Fuego."
Contact: 183 S. Edwards St., 269-978-8451,
First Runner-Up
Monaco Bay Piano Bar & Grill
If you can get weepy to a singalong of "Don't Stop Believin'" led by one of Monaco Bay's pianists, then you'll likely meet others who feel the same at the Entertainment District's piano bar.
Contact: 300 E. Michigan Ave., 269-384-6044, monacobay.biz
Second Runner-Up
Bell's Eccentric Café
Bell's critically acclaimed brews draw in the crowd and accentuate the party atmosphere. The music -- folk, rock, country and more -- is a bonus.
Contact: 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 269-382-2332, bellsbeer.com
Honorable Mention
Art Hops, downtown Kalamazoo, first Friday of every month
View full sizeIn this file photo, Christian Doling, 12, watches his six-year-old sister, Cheylyn Doling, both of Battle Creek fly a flight simulator at the Air Zoo.Readers have chosen this Zoo's birds for three years in a row. It’s got over 50 aircraft, from the once top-secret S4-71 Blackbird, to the star of "Top Gun" the F-14 Tomcat, and on back to the old restored birds of World War II.
One can fly into combat over Axis territory in the World War II 4-D Missions Theatre, or pilot a modern fighter in a full-motion flight simulator. Or leave the Earth in the 3-D Space Shuttle ride, train in the Space Walk or go on a mission to Mars.
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays
Contact: 6151 Portage Road, Portage; 269-382-6555,
First Runner-Up
Bell's Eccentric Café
Bell's beers are sold in more and more states, and is expanding its Comstock facility to meet demand. It might be that just as folks in Battle Creek take out-of-towners to Kellogg's, locals take them to where the brewing all started downtown, and where the beer and music flow.
Contact: 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 269-382-2332, bellsbeer.com
Second Runner-Up
SkyDeck
They're now closed for the season, but for its first summer Reedy Corp.'s (owner of Monaco Bay and The Wild Bull) SkyDeck offered a view of Kalamazoo from the Rosenbaum Building's roof six floors up (atop Monaco Bay).
Contact: 269-384-6044, skydeck.biz
Honorable Mention
Downtown Kalamazoo, www.kalamazoocity.org
The grandparents can see evidence of the Greatest Generation's work, parents can see the kids learning a thing or two and the kids can blast off on the rides.
This is their second year in the Readers' Choice top spot for families. It's not hard to see that the Zoo has displays, multi-media educational exhibits and rides that should appeal to all generations. Adding to the incentive is the free general admission and unlimited ride-all-day pass for $12.95.
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays.
Contact: 6151 Portage Road, Portage; 269-382-6555,
First Runner-Up
Binder Park Zoo
Parents and kids can feed giraffes from a perch at giraffe-eye-level, see big cats like cheetah and snow leopards and monkey with the primates. In June the zoo saw the birth of little Flynn and Sorrel, red panda cubs.
Contact: 7400 Division Drive, Battle Creek; 269-949-1351, binderparkzoo.org
Second Runner-Up
Lake Michigan/South Haven
We sometimes take it for granted, but the envy of many other states is just a short drive away. Beautiful beaches, beautiful lake, plus the other attractions that tourist destinations like South Haven offer.
Contact: Just head West.
Honorable Mention
Downtown Kalamazoo, www.kalamazoocity.org
If you find yourself in need of some serious body movin’ you may want to find your way to Wild Bull. As the home of one of Kalamazoo’s largest dance floors, Wild Bull prides itself on throwing a party every time they open their doors.
Hours: 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday; Closed Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Contact: 139 S. Edwards St.; 269-978-8451,
FIRST RUNNER UP
The 411 Club/Metro
As “Kalamazoo's new home for blues, zydeco, jazz and other Americana music,” The 411 and Metro nightclub promises a high-energy, swinging night out on the town. With live music every weekend this joint goes a long way to helping you shake those work-a-day blues and party down.
Contact: 411 N. Westnedge Ave.; 269-276-9240,
SECOND RUNNER UP
District Square
This "13,000-square-foot addition to the Entertainment District" hosts live music three nights a week in a softly lit outdoor urban setting.
Contact: 139 S. Edwards St.; 269-978-8451, www.districtsquare.biz
HONORABLE MENTION
Wayside West, 3406 Stadium Drive; 269-375-1930, waysidewest.com
For a second straight year Kalamazoo Gazette readers have proclaimed the State Theatre as the top spot in town to see live music. Having entertained audiences since its beginnings as a movie palace in 1927, this stately theater (no pun intended) should know a thing or two about treating patrons to a night out. “Were thrilled to be the winner two years in a row and we’re thankful the people of Kalamazoo have kept us alive year after year,” box office manager Sarah Bauman said.
Contact: 404 S. Burdick St.; 269-345-6500,
First Runner-Up
The Strutt
The Strutt continues to climb the ranks as a top Kalamazoo live music hot spot, and it’s easy to see why. With music to be found seven days a week from up and coming local acts to national headliners.
Contact: 773 W. Michigan Ave.; 269-492-7200,
Second Runner-Up
The Union
Known by many as the spot to get acquainted with the Kalamazoo jazz scene, The Union is the longtime haunt of WMU music students and faculty. A mellow atmosphere and good drinks set the mood at this trendy downtown joint
Contact: 125 S. Kalamazoo Mall; 269-384-6756,
www.millenniumrestaurants.com/union.php
Honorable Mention
District Square, 139 S. Edwards St; 269-978-8451,
Touting itself as a “departure from the Midwest,” The Union offers high-end American cuisine in a relaxed and romantically-lit setting. Bring your new flame, and take in some of the area’s most accomplished jazz musicians while dining from Chef Eric Gillish’s custom menu. General Manager Brian Hill believes “the diversity of what is offered, from great martinis to excellent food to quality service,” is what makes The Union such a wonderful place to bring a first date.
Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 11 a.m.-Midnight Thursday; noon-2 a.m. Friday-Saturday; closed Sunday
Contact: 125 S. Kalamazoo Mall; 269-384-6756,
www.millenniumrestaurants.com/union.php
First Runner-Up
Monaco Bay
Kalamazoo’s only dueling piano bar is a fun and lively spot to spend a romantic, yet casual evening. Dinner, drinks and dancing are always on tap at this popular downtown nightclub.
Contact: 300 E. Michigan Ave.; 269-384-6044,
Second Runner-Up
SkyDeck
Located on the roof of the Rosenbaum Building, SkyDeck affords patrons the best 360 degree views that downtown Kalamazoo has to offer. Opened in 2010 this rooftop haunt is a prime location to cap a romantic night out or to watch the sunset over the hills.
Contact: 300 E. Michigan Ave.; 269-384-6044,
Honorable Mention
Fandango, 247 S Kalamazoo Mall; 269-226-9800, www.fandangotapasbistro.com
Since 2007, this pop/rock trio has made sure many know them.
The appeal of WKJ is basic, singer/keyboardist Chris Janowiak said: "It's real life material, not false opinions or far out ideas. I think the lyrics and stories behind our songs are ideas and concepts that people can grab onto."
Also in the band is Isaac Hansen (bass) and Hayes Greer (drums). The three came out of WMU music program with eclectic tastes. "We play the kind of music we like. It's sort of a mix between pop and rock with a little bit of funk and jazz influence," Janowiak said.
Janowiak is also the drumline instructor for the Mattawan High School marching band, and the choir director for the town's middle school -- the students may have helped WKJ reach the top of this category, he admitted. But they also have a connection to fans old enough to see them in local bars.
Contact:
First Runner-Up
DJ Creole
Need to dance from Saturday night into Sunday? DJ Creole will help with an arsenal of pop, rock, R&B, hip-hop, country -- whatever is needed to move the crowd at the Wild Bull, Saturdays at 11:30 p.m.
Contact: 183 S. Edwards St.; 269-978-8451, wildbull.biz
Second Runner-Up
Shelagh Brown
Kalamazoo's contemporary country artist has performed from the State Theatre to Harbor Fest. She has made trips down to Nashville, Tenn., where she's worked with Marc-Alan Barnette and Frankie Ballard — who knows, one of these days she might have to stay in Music City.
Contact: shelaghbrown.org
Honorable Mention
Small Town Son, www.smalltownson.com
Art is partly about viewing, but the KIA has long had the doing part covered as well.
Their gallery always has something of historical/cultural import to be seen. Georgia O'Keefe paintings to Ansel Adams photos have arrived in touring exhibits. Permanent displays include the amazing Chihuly glass sculptures and the art of the KIA's new Joy Light Gallery of Asian Arts.
But art at the KIA isn't just passive viewing. The KIA offers learning opportunities with lectures, films, live music and family programs. They sponsor and select the entries to the KIA Art Fair, and hold the annual Holiday Art Sale. And thanks to the Kirk Newman Art School, the KIA offers more than 300 classes a year in all mediums, from photography to fiber.
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays
Contact: 314 S. Park St.; 269-349-7775,
First Runner-Up
Midtown Gallery
Kalamazoo photographer and educator Terry Nihart opened Midtown in July, 2009. The former store-front now displays prints, paintings, photos, jewelry and works of other mediums by artists local and national.
Contact: 356 South Kalamazoo Mall; 269-372-0134, midtownkalamazoo.com
Second Runner-Up
Richmond Center for Visual Arts, WMU
The ultra-modern $13 million building looks like a work of art itself. It opened in 2007 on campus, and its 44,000 square feet became home to exhibits in its three gallery spaces.
Contact: WMU campus; 269-387-2436, wmich.edu/art
Honorable Mention
Exquisite Corpse Gallery, 326 W. Kalamazoo Ave., Park Trades Center, exquisitecorpsegallery.com
The recession has caused some local theaters to suffer, even close. But Farmers Alley, which opened just as the economic mess began in fall of 2008, has been doing great. This is its second year they got in the top spot of this category — most likely because it’s filling seats and getting known around the region, said Adam Weiner, Farmers Alley executive director.
When it began, Weiner kept hearing the question, "What makes you different from any other theater company in town? We have so many." The staff works at being a year-round professional theater where everyone gets paid, he said. Also, it bring pros, such as Scott Burkell, Joe Aiello and Barbara Marineau to the stage, as well as local talent from Kalamazoo's active theater scene.
Contact: 221 Farmers Alley; 269-343-2727,
First Runner-Up
The Civic Theatre
This community theater has spent the past 81 years bringing the nation's big shows to life. Volunteers stage dramas, musicals, comedies and family shows from September to May, "Annie" to "Our Town."
Contact: 329 S. Park St.; 269- 343-1313, kazoocivic.com
Second Runner-Up
Gold Company
A WMU tradition, the student jazz vocal group, under the direction of Stephen Zegree, has toured the world, sung on stage for the likes of Bobby McFerrin and Rosmery Clooney, and won awards.
Contact: wmugoldcompany.com
Honorable Mention
Kinetic Affect, www.kineticaffect.com
In the constantly-changing media environment, where it seems that more people are plugged into their iPods than a radio, a station's got to fight for your ears.
Last year WMU's student-run station, WIDR-FM (89.1), hit the top spot of this category. Now WKFR has moved up from its 2009 second runner-up position. Ken Evans, WKFR program director, said it's because they simply "put out a product that our listeners want to hear."
WKFR serves the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek area but reaches as far north as Wyoming and as far south as Sturgis. It has its roots in "Keener 14," the area's 1960s Top 40 AM station, and since 1981 have kept the format of top pop hits on the FM. "Obviously, heritage plays a role," Evans said. "Kalamazoo is fortunate to have had stations that are solid and have been on for a long time. A lot of the stations in our area are community oriented, and we're one of those."
Contact: 269-978-1033,
First Runner-Up
WMUK-FM (102.1)
The WMU public radio station was the first to broadcast in FM here way back in 1951. Thanks to listener support, it's still going strong with programming that includes classical, jazz, folk, and local and National Public Radio news.
Contact: 269-387-5715, wmuk.org
Second Runner-Up
WRKR-FM (107.7)
Since its tower sprang up in Portage in 1988, WRKR has been "The Rocker." They began with classic rock that evolved to a mix of the past and present mainstream rock.
Contact: wrkr.com
Honorable Mention
WKZO-AM (590), 269-345-7121, wkzo.com
Take a bunch of rib experts from around the country competing for awards for best ribs, and add a few big-name bands, and you've got Kalamazoo's favorite way to spend an August weekend.
The fest brought big ribs, and big acts, such as the Spinners and Mitch Ryder last year, and the Verve Pipe and Eddie Money this year, to the Arcadia Creek Festival Place. The latest Ribfest made it "a very good year, I think it was a record year for us," said Deb Russell, of Community Advocates, which receives proceeds from the fest. "Great food, great entertainment, and I would like to say, great cause," Russell said. Money raised goes to improve the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities. Helping out are as many as 600 volunteers. "And we have fantastic volunteers," she said.
Contact:
First Runner-Up
Taste of Kalamazoo
The combination of food and music strikes a chord in Kalamazoo. On the fourth weekend in July, Arcadia Creek Festival Place is the site of many area restaurants serving up many dishes of the world, from barbecue to baba ghanoush. They also bring in acts, such as The Romantics, The Tubes and Matt Giraud.
Contact: tasteofkalamazoo.com
Second Runner-Up
Block Parties at the Entertainment District
The Reedy Corp.'s Wild Bull, Monaco Bay, SkyDeck and the new District Square take over the 300 block of East Michigan Avenue. Local and regional bands, DJs and the venues' combined food and drink fuel beginning-of-summer and end-of-summer parties.
Contact: downtownblockparty.com
Honorable Mention
Irish Fest, kalamazooirish.org