Celebrating City Life
www.grmag.com
Eco-friendly Art» pg10 Fashion» pg18 Design» pg22 Business» pg35 Food» pg48 Drinks» pg68
Award-winning furniture designer Nicolai Czumaj-Bront
April 2010
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Volume 47 Number 4
April 2010 baCk to nature
With Fred Keller at the helm, Cascade Engineering has been leading the sustainability bandwagon for more than 20 years. .....................35
Blandford Nature Center’s new director is looking to blaze new trails to become a better resource for the community. ....................... 40
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FEaTurEs takinG the Green road
2 Grand rapids April 2010
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10 Volume 47 Number 4
April 2010 26 on the cover:
Photography by Michael Buck
In Every Issue Life & Style 46
Michele Oka Doner; recycled artwork on etsy. com; Kent County recycling update; car-less in Grand Rapids. ............................... 9-13
Speaking Up Etc.
By Carole Valade..................... 7 Letters
Readers’ words......................... 7 Travel
Grand Times
Harry H. Gardiner, aka The Human Fly, scaled more than 700 buildings in North America and Europe. ......... 16 Profile
Marta Swain sees clothing as one more way of connecting with nature — a philosophy she learned from her parents. ................................. 18
By Pete Daly Cuba offers a trip into history. .......................... 14 Critic’s Choice
By Mark F. Miller Clear Water Place is a model of sustainability. ..................24 Art Appreciation
By Joseph Antenucci Becherer Calder Jewelry at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. . ........26
Design
Award-winning furniture designer Nicolai Czumaj-Bront is always looking for new artistic ventures. . ............... 22
Dining Review
City Guide
By Jon C. Koeze Breweries in Northern Michigan............................... 50
Chef Cory DeMint profiled; casual dining list; Graham Parsons & The Go ’Rounds; Pearl Street Grill; Hot Shots. . .................... 45-72 Calendar of Events ............ 61
By Ira Craaven Corez Neighborhood Eatery & Bar. . .................... 46 Fresh Hops
Hot off the grill
By Julie Burch........................ 52 Grand Vine
By A. Brian Cain New York’s Finger-lickin’ wineries. . ..............................59
4 Grand Rapids April 2010
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Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964
www.grmag.com
info@grmag.com Publisher
John H. Zwarensteyn: jzwarensteyn@geminipub.com Editor
Carole Valade: cvalade@geminipub.com Managing Editor
Marty Primeau: mprimeau@geminipub.com Copy Editor
Donna Ferraro: dferraro@geminipub.com Contributing Editors
Joseph A. Becherer, A. Brian Cain, Ira Craaven, Mark F. Miller, Jon C. Koeze, Tricia van Zelst Contributing Writers
Julie Burch, Kimberly Monaghan Editorial Interns
Cristina Stavro, Alexandra Fluegel, Amy Soukup Design Panel
Celeste Adams, Joseph A. Becherer, John Berry, Kevin Budelmann, Jim Caughman, Timothy Chester, Sam Cummings, Oliver Evans, James Ludwig, Ray Kennedy, Henry Matthews, Joe McCambridge, Wayne Norlin, Wayne Visbeen
Skate Server
Design & Production Manager
Scott Sommerfeld: ssommerfeld@geminipub.com Assistant Design & Production Manager
Chris Pastotnik: cpastotnik@geminipub.com Art Coordinator
Harbour Bay Furniture Co. Stuart, FL and Holland, MI
Downtown Holland · 212 S. River Ave., Holland · (616) 395-5554 Open Mon.–Sat. 10:00–5:30
www.harbourbayfurniture.com
Kelly J. Nugent: knugent@geminipub.com Designers/Production Assistants
Melissa Brooks: mbrooks@geminipub.com Robin Vargo: rvargo@geminipub.com Contributing Photographers
Michael Buck, Jim Gebben, Jeff Hage, Jack Poeller, Johnny Quirin General Sales Manager
Randy D. Prichard: rprichard@geminipub.com Advertising Sales Consultants
Let spring lift your spirits in the vineyards.
General Inquiries: advertisingsales@grmag.com Kathie Manett: kmanett@geminipub.com John Olsa: jolsa@geminipub.com Jan Thomas: jthomas@geminipub.com Lesley Vander Wall: lvanderwall@geminipub.com Advertising Sales Assistant/Coordinator
Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com Circulation & Marketing Manager
Scott T. Miller: smiller@geminipub.com Circulation & Marketing Coordinator
Jocelyn Burkett: jburkett@geminipub.com Circulation & Marketing Assistant
Shane Chapin: schapin@geminipub.com Finance & Administration Manager
Pamela Brocato, CPA: pbrocato@geminipub.com Accounting & Credit assistant
Bev Horinga: bhoringa@geminipub.com Administrative assistant
Tina Gillman: tgillman@geminipub.com Receptionists/Clerical Assistants
General Inquiries: info@grmag.com Alyson Mabie, Linda Wilson
t
To Order Reprints
he air is sweetly scented, the breezes are warm. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a complementary tour of our winery and sip the Midwest’s most award winning wines. Request a glass or bottle of your favorite to be served with an exquisitely prepared lunch or dinner. And feel the laughter and warmth that ensues as you look out on our vineyards. Come be together soon at...
Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com (616) 459-4545 Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Publications, a division of Gemini Corporation. Publishing offices: 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 459-4545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag. com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright © 2010 by Gemini Publications. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $3.95 (by mail $6); back issue $6 (by mail $7.50), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at www.grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions. audited by
185 Mt. Tabor Rd., Buchanan, MI 49017 • 800-283-3363 • www.taborhill.com www.geminipub.com
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6 Grand Rapids April 2010
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Etcetera
Sustainable consolidation
by Carole Valade
In the decade just past, Grand Rapids rose to hold national rank as a city with the most Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certified buildings per capita, but such leadership goes beyond the rating and certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. It has become a way of life in this community, from the escalation in the number of bus riders to county recycling centers, from using green materials in Steelcase furniture to the Crystal Flash commitment to alternative energy sources and the provision of such fuels. It includes the city’s Green Grand Rapids plan being created by its residents (see Etc., February 2010) and the preservation of parkland, most impressively exemplified by Millennium Park. Consolidation of effort and energy also can be viewed as a “sustainable” practice, and it has brought meaningful progress to this area. In the medical community, consolidations are providing fewer redundancies and gains toward reining in the cost of health care. Spectrum Health has created alliances in northern Michigan, Saint Mary’s Trinity Health systems are now region wide, and Metro Health’s affiliation with University of Michigan brings specialists to the Metro campus. Consolidations have been a sometimes painful result of budgets impoverished for lack of the return of state funding. Schools have been first on the (non)receiving end, and governmental units are amputating services.
Both Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell and former Kent County Board of Commissioners Chairman Roger Morgan began the discussion of consolidations of services between cities in Kent County. Grand Rapids and Wyoming are already setting such plans in motion, including shared police and fire dispatch. Kentwood also has indicated increasing interest in shared services, and Heartwell is meeting with no fewer than five mayors to discuss new initiatives that save taxpayer dollars. These initial plans are the baby steps to fruitful change and may, hopefully, lead to a unified regional government. Morgan noted that a system established long ago by Indianapolis “would make us the 23rd largest city in the country. It gives us political clout. It puts us on the radar screen of companies seeking new markets. It makes us eligible for federal grants for transportation, homeland security, education and a dozen other areas where we are simply too small to qualify.” Heartwell, during his annual State of the City speech, said, “(Consolidation) links our interest, our talents and our resources in vibrant new combinations.” It may just be the most sustainable approach to this region’s future.
Letters We welcome letters to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name, address and phone number. Please send letters in care of: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids MI 49503, or e-mail to letters@grmag. com. Letters may be edited for reasons of clarity and space.
Laurels for the nice article and starting the piece talking about the show I created, “Sunday Night Funnies.” Hardlies for referring to me as “a seasoned comic” instead of my name Brian B. As local comic Kyle Irwin stated, “I would have thought you were more marinated than seasoned.” Brian B. (Brian Borbot)
‘Funnies’ founder unmasked I wanted to write to you regarding the article on the local comedy scene entitled “For the Love of Laughter” (February 2010).
Best of GR list About one fourth of the best of GR list was best of Corporate America. I could not believe it. Could you somehow stop dumb
people from voting. I’m not sure how reading that Starbucks, Barnes & Noble and Panera Bread are good places to go does any justice to Grand Rapids or the magazine. I am sure you just published the results, but reading things like GRAM is the best art gallery when it is not even a gallery, it’s a museum, just pisses me off and makes me not trust the rest of the list. Please publish a new list that excludes dumb voters. The current list should be called “First Thing That Comes to Mind About Grand Rapids in Several Categories.” Jordan Squires
April 2010 Grand Rapids 7
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CELEBRATING
CITY LIFE This year discover the perfect living
environment. See the city, soak in all you can and picture yourself in the next chapter of your life. Check out the culture centers and learn more about city living.
Parade of Downtown Living:
JUNE 11-13, 2010 TOUR THESE CONDOMINIUMS • BOARDWALK • THE FITZGERALD • HILLMOUNT • THE GALLERY • RIVER HOUSE AT BRIDGEWATER • 38 COMMERCE
Friday 4 pm – 8 pm Saturday 10 am – 5 pm Sunday 12 am – 3 pm
Phone: 616.459.4545 | www.grmag.com
Visit www.grmag.com for complete parade details. $10.00 PER PERSON FOR THE ENTIRE WEEKEND.
Park free. Ride the bus free to each location.
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TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SPONSOR
TICKET PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT DWELLING PLACE
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Life & Style “Soul Catchers have been created from raw materials since primitive times to catch the souls of the sick ...” — Michele Oka Doner » pg10 Photography by Johnny Quirin
Inside
» Michele Oka Doner 10
» etsy 11
» Recyling Update 12
» car-less in Gr 13
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life & style
Practicing her art Michele Oka Doner’s “Spirit and Form” exhibition at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park explores the relationship between humans and nature.
M
“My mother was a Latin teacher and very disciplined,” she said. “That speaks volumes for my need for structure. But I grew up in Miami Beach, playing in the trees and surrounded by the chaos of nature. Tarzan was a big influence. We used to pretend we were in the jungle.” Oka Doner left Florida to study at the University of Michigan, earning a bachelor’s degree in science and design, and a master’s degree in fine arts. Her first major solo museum exhibition was in 1978 at the Detroit Institute of Arts. In her artwork, from coral-reef shaped bracelets for Christofle to cast iron candelabras in her Burning Bush collection, Oka Doner explores the relationship between humans and nature. Spirit and Form, her largest exhibition to date, includes two life-size, headless sculptures, and “Terrible Chair,” fashioned from spiky twigs and thorns made of bronze with gold leaf. Tree roots inspired a massive can-
delabra, “Root System,” as well as a series of 8-foot prints. The centerpiece is “Soul Catcher,” an abandoned grain bin filled with more than 400 porcelain skulls Oka Doner completed during her residency at the famed Nymphenburg porcelain studios in Munich, Germany. The artist finds interesting shapes in nature, crafting designs in wax to be cast into bronze. “I have an intense need to feel things with my hands, like the texture in clothing and food. We all have an animal self that is not serviced by machines and flat screens.” Oka Doner pairs that instinctual female primate urge with the intelligent, contemporary, modern woman. “It’s a nice combination,” she said. “I honor my hands as much as my head.” — marty Primeau
photogrAphy by Johnny quirin
ichele Oka Doner is quick to dispel the notion that artists are “loosey-goosey.” Quite the contrary. “Art is a practice, like law or meditation,” she explained. “I don’t just practice art when the mood hits. I work at it every day.” That might explain her extraordinary success. The Florida native is internationally recognized for her figurative sculptures, prints, jewelry and public art projects — including “A Walk on the Beach,” a 2,000-square-meter black terrazzo floor embedded with bronze pieces in the Miami International Airport. In January, she traveled from her Soho studio to Grand Rapids for the opening of Spirit and Form: Michele Oka Doner and the Natural World, on exhibit through May 9 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. In the quiet hours before the opening, Oka Doner talked about her inspirations.
10 Grand rapids April 2010
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Life & Style
Turning trash into cash
T
Photography by Jim Gebben
“It’s about loving the process and the pure act of making something one-of-a-kind.” — Danny Lynn
ake away the big crowds and legwork of walking booth-to-booth at art fairs or craft shows, and you get Etsy.com — “the place to buy and sell all things handmade.” While you can browse and shop stores globally on the site, stick to the Grand Rapids region by going to “Buy” and then “Shop Local.” There you can find the online stores of Danny Lynn, Jane Kropewnicki and Sarah Roemer — just three of more than 100 artisans in the Etsy West Michigan “Street Team,” a group of artists and crafters who live in West Michigan and sell their works on Etsy. Recycling old sweaters, pop can tabs and magazines into one-of-a-kind works is just a preview of what people can do with some creative vision and skilled hands. Sarah Roemer, a mother of four, makes innovative purses, belts and bracelets with recycled Sarah Roemer sells purses she makes pop can tabs. “I’m reluctant to throw things away from pop can tabs on Etsy.com. that still have a little life left in them,” says Roemer, who developed her own construction method after seeing a picture of a pop-tab purse in a magazine. Local charities often raise money by collecting pop tabs and selling them to scrap yards, where Roemer purchases them. “I wash and prepare all the tabs, construct the purse, make the liner and sew it in,” she said. It takes her about four hours to make a small purse. Danny Lynn, a 26-year-old graphic designer in Grand Rapids, re-purposes seemingly old, useless materials into mittens, slippers and notebooks in her free time. “It’s about loving the process and the pure act of making something one-of-a-kind,” she said. Lynn recycles sweaters from garage sales, Goodwill, the Salvation Army “and even friends whose husbands have helped with the laundry. We love them for their good intentions and gladly take their shrunken sweaters.” Jane Kropewnicki also makes use of old sweaters to create eco-friendly stuffed creatures. With names like Mortimer and Lorenzo, these creatures “warm your heart and hug you back.” — Cristina Stavro
Danny Lynn re-purposes useless materials into mittens and slippers.
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Life & Style
Sometimes it’s not easy being green. Deciding whether something is pure trash or recyclable can play havoc with one’s sanity. Thankfully, Kent County’s Household Waste Guide educates residents on what, where and how to recycle just about anything. “We are gearing up because changes are coming,” said Kathy Babins, resource recovery specialist with the county’s Department of Public Works. “We plan to put in a new Web site dedicated to recycling that will probably go online this spring, making it even easier for people to get the answers they need.” This directive project adds to Kent County’s already progressive approach of keeping the community educated and informed. Through group tours, school programs, printed materials, a Facebook page and consumer feedback via a hotline (888-217-2850), the county has found alternative solutions for even the most obscure of recycling requests. From yoga mats to holiday lights, www. accesskent.com has answers for recycling, reusing, or even selling materials on eBay. The aggressive efforts also include the use of a new processing plant set to open at 977 Wealthy St. SE in Septem-
ber. “It’s a single-stream recycling, so residents won’t have to separate their materials,” said Dennis Kmiecik, director of solid waste. “Their paper can be commingled with cans and glass. It’s a lot more efficient, and a better product will come out because it depends less on people sorting their materials.” According to research by the county, single-stream processing has demonstrated a 20 percent consumer recycling interest nationwide. Additional mechanical components at the new site are expected to reduce 75 percent of the 100,000 community service hours it takes to operate the present facility on Bartlett. The county will, however, continue to rely on three resource recovery specialists to direct consumers to local collection partners such as Home Depot and West Michigan Iron and Metal and others, which intake materials not accepted through its curbside residential recycling program. “It’s our goal to make recycling cost effective and easy,” said Kmiecik. “We want to be the best in the state of Michigan.”
— Kimberly Monaghan
Photography by johnny quirin
What do I do with this?
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Life & Style
Car-less in Grand Rapids
Photography by Jim Gebben
Marcia VanderWoude sighed wistfully as she handed over a photo of her “California car,” the snazzy white Nissan 300ZX convertible she drove while living in San Diego. It was a joy, she said. But VanderWoude sold the car after retiring in 2003. “I decided I no longer needed cars,” she said. “I don’t drive to and from work, and I live in downtown Grand Rapids so I can walk to most places I want to go.” VanderWoude has become a fan of The Rapid, the city’s public transportation system. “The buses are always on time and I get to meet a variety of people.” She rides the No. 6 to visit her daughter in East Grand Rapids; the No. 1 takes her to Health Intervention Services, the nonprofit clinic where she works parttime.
“Economically, going car-less is a great decision,” said VanderWoude, who worked as a broker in the financial industry for 25 years. Now retired, she teaches a personal finance class at Grand Valley State University. She estimates the average person
spends $500 to $800 per month to own and operate a vehicle “including fuel, insurance, maintenance, etc. I have chosen to reallocate that money into other areas that suit my values and life choices: church, charity and children.” — Marty Primeau
Apparently, more people are doing the same. According to The Interurban Transit Partnership’s most recent ridership report (Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2009), The Rapid averaged 37,394 rides per weekday, up 1.6 percent from the same period the previous year. “We have seen annual ridership increases for the past several years,” said Jennifer Kalczuk, marketing director. “We ended fiscal year 2009 with 9.3 million rides.” And so far in 2010, those numbers are up 1.4 percent. April 2010 Grand Rapids 13
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Life & Style: Travel
Cuba offers a trip into history
by Pete Daly
Grand Rapidians relax next to a saltwater swimming pool at a seaside resort in a suburb of Havana. Water from the Caribbean enters the pool through narrow openings in the surrounding seawall. Above: Brightly costumed stilt walkers parade through the narrow streets of Old Havana for the tourists. Opposite page: Fresh flowers are left every day at the grave of La Milagrosa in Colon, the city’s huge central cemetery. Pilgrims come to pray for a miracle, usually seeking a cure for a sick child.
A year ago, my daughter and I volunteered to go to Havana with First-Hand Aid, a nonprofit organization in Grand Rapids that donates basic medicine and health care supplies to two pediatric hospitals. First-Hand Aid’s activities are fully licensed by both the U.S. and Cuban governments. (Our Cuban visas identified us as medical workers.) Shipping medical supplies to Cuba apparently doesn’t work very well; the only sure way to get it to the hospitals is to pack it in your luggage, fly to Havana and take it to the hospitals. I am fascinated by history, and Claire and I both like to travel off the beaten path. And who wouldn’t like a brief sojourn in the tropics during the Michigan winter? As our small group deplaned and entered the airport terminal in Havana, we passed through part of it that was seemingly undergoing renovation, with ceiling tiles removed. A
few days later, as we left Cuba, I realized the “renovation” was just another case of advanced disrepair, which one sees often in public infrastructure there. The legendary American cars from the 1950s are all over Havana, all with thick layers of hand-brushed paint and numerous patches. Many are in use as cabs; the original gasoline engines died decades ago and were replaced with diesel engines from the Eastern Block. The Soviet Union supported Cuba economically for decades after the U.S. imposed a Free World embargo in an attempt to overturn the Castro brothers’ regime in the early 1960s. When the Soviets went bankrupt in 1989, its aid to Cuba ended and the período especial began, a “special time” of intense poverty and hardship affecting virtually all 10 million Cubans. I was told that the weight of the average Cuban adult dropped about 10 pounds or so. Tourism is a thriving industry in Cuba, especially the gorgeous beach areas on the south side of the island. The people love music, family and convivial gatherings with their friends and neighbors. Our volunteer work was fascinating; the hospital visits reminded us how lucky we are in America. In the pediatric hospitals in Cuba,
photography Courtesy Pete Daly (far left); Claire Daly (top)
Where to go for spring break this year: Florida? Cancun? Cuba? OK, so Americans generally don’t have that Cuban option yet — at least not legally — but Canadians and Europeans do, and the Cuban tourism industry is booming. However, scores of West Michigan residents in the last few years have experienced fascinating and completely legal visits to Cuba, a remnant of the Cold War and one of only two hard-line Soviet-style communist nations left. (The other, of course, is North Korea.)
14 Grand Rapids April 2010
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photogrAphy CourtESy pEtE DAly
life & style: travel one of the parents is with their child every day, taking care of them when the few available nurses can’t get there. The doctors enjoyed showing us around; we could plainly see how much our simple supplies were appreciated. We had plenty of free time to explore the city of 2 million on our own, with no fear of being threatened. There are lots of police and soldiers in Havana, and the government has let it be known that anyone who molests a tourist is in big trouble. Still, it is a poor country, with a startling lack of consumer goods we take for granted. Be advised not to put your camera down on the city’s famous sea wall, the Malecón, and get distracted — the camera might disappear! Command of Spanish is a great asset, as complicated restaurant bills can inexplicably end up much larger than expected. There is far too much to see and do in Cuba than these few paragraphs can convey, but here are some glimpses: colon is a huge cemetery in the middle of Havana, but one grave in particular is visited by people from throughout Cuba who have a seriously ill child or are in need of a miracle. La Milagrosa (“the miraculous one”) was a young woman who died in childbirth more than 100 years ago. Years after her death, her widower had her grave moved and her coffin was opened, supposedly revealing that her body had not decayed, and in her arms was the baby who had died with her. The baby had supposedly been buried in a separate casket. the havana sea wall, the Malecón, stretches for 8 kilometers along the beautiful Caribbean. Little yellow Coco taxis rush by with two tourists in the back, and thousands of people go down to the wall at sunset to hang out and party. two fascinating hotels are the habana Libre and the nacional. The tall, modernistic Habana Libre was a Hilton that opened in 1958. Fidel Castro’s rebel forces commandeered it early in 1959, and he had his office for awhile on the 24th floor. It is a high-quality hotel, for Cuba, but the exterior of the upper floors appears careworn, and endlessly circling turkey vultures give it an eerie look. Our group spent a gorgeous tropical evening at the nacional on its hilltop veranda overlooking the sea, listening to live music, sipping mojitos and smoking
cigars (well, some of us). Built in 1930 in an Art Deco-like style, it was the place for VIPs to hang out before the revolution. In the bar are photos of many American celebrities who stayed there in the 1940s and 1950s. It was also a home-away-fromhome for organized crime bosses. we spent an afternoon at the copa cabana resort. The name thrilled us but the real Copa Cabana was in New York. We swam in the pools (both saltwater and freshwater), enjoyed good food and sunbathed next to the Caribbean. My daughter loves dogs and she probably took more pictures of dogs than any other subject. We joked about the “socialist dogs” seen everywhere, most of which seemed to be strays living an incredibly good life. It was comical to see throngs of tourists flowing around two dogs enjoying a brisk, intimate moment on a major street corner.
It’s not just about teeth!
Do you or your spouse snore? Snoring is not normal. It could be an indication of a serious condition called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the tongue and soft palate tissue fall back into the throat during sleep, completely blocking the airway. 80% of people who snore test positive for OSA. People with untreated OSA have increased risk for stroke, heart attack, memory loss, depression and certain kinds of cancer. Today, dentistry offers comfortable treatment options for snoring and OSA.
A journalist is struck by the absence of newspapers, magazines and billboards in Cuba, but somehow, I suspect, the people know what is going on. There is advertising of a sort, but it’s not commercial: Political propaganda is painted everywhere on walls, and that image of Che Guevara that I remember well from my college days 40 years ago is ubiquitous in communist Cuba. I’m glad we had a chance to see it before it’s gone. Pete Daly is a reporter for the Grand Rapids Business Journal.
Call our office at 616 365-5806 to schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more about treatments available for snoring and OSA.
6225 West River Drive NE Belmont MI 49306-9025 Tel (616) 365-5806 www.drfirlik.com
Urszula Firlik, DDS Family Dental Care
April 2010 Grand rapids 15
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history: grand times
Moving up the hard way During hiS AlWAyS upWArD CArEEr, hArry h. gArDinEr SCAlED morE thAn 700 builDingS in north AmEriCA AnD EuropE. by gordon beLd
I
t was September 1916 when a fly crawled up the sides of two tall Monroe Avenue buildings and attracted thousands to downtown Grand Rapids. This, however, was no ordinary insect. It was Harry H. Gardiner, known as the “Human Fly.” Sponsored by The Grand Rapids Press, Gardiner scaled the 10-story Herpolsheimer Building at noon on Monday, Sept. 18, and the 12-story Grand Rapids Savings Bank on Wednesday evening. An estimated 20,000 persons saw the Monday event, and between 30,000 and 40,000 jammed the streets on Wednesday. During the following week, Gardiner climbed the walls and dome of the Capitol in Lansing, and in October, The Detroit News sponsored the Fly’s noontime ascent of the Majestic Building on Woodward Avenue. About 150,000 saw him reach the top in 37 minutes. He had begun climbing buildings in 1905, and dur-
ing the same decade as his Michigan appearances, he ascended the 22-story Flatiron Building in Manhattan. On Halloween 1918 in Vancouver, British Columbia, he attracted more people to the center of the city than had ever been there. They watched him scale the 17-story World Building, now known as the Sun Tower. On Armistice Day a week and a half later, Gardiner celebrated the Allied victory in World War I by climbing the Bank of Hamilton Building in Ontario. Partway up the structure, he reached into an open window and signed insurance papers. Because of his risky pastime, he had been unable to get insurance elsewhere. In a 1925 American Legion fundraising venture in Enid, Okla., Gardiner scaled the Enid Bank and Trust Co. while Legionnaires passed through the crowd with containers for contributions. On the other side of the town square, Paul Whiteman and his orchestra presented a concert in the Convention Hall. Daughters of the American Legion sponsored the band’s appearance to pay off debt incurred for a World War I memorial.
At Grand Rapids, he climbed the Herpolsheimer Building in 19 minutes and the bank building in 20 minutes. His ascents included scrambling up to the top of flagpoles on the roofs. “All that saved the climber from a fall into the crowd below,” The Press reported after the Herpolsheimer ascent, “was a grip of a hand on the smallest extension or a perilous foothold on almost smooth masonry. On the seventh floor, he swung back and forth in the ozone over the heads of a gasping crowd a full one hundred feet below. On the sixth, flat against the brick, he released his hold on the terra cotta molding and stood with the tips of his toes on a ledge no wider than a dollar.” A searchlight atop the Herpolsheimer Building focused on Gardiner as he climbed the bank building. “Within 20 minutes,” The Press reported, “he swung on the wide roof cornice, stretched his hard-worked muscles a moment and scampered to the lofty flagstaff.” The crowd below was said by the newspaper to be the largest that had ever assembled in Grand Rapids. It filled four blocks of the main street from Division Avenue to Campau Square, and overflowed into side streets, roofs of buildings and windows. During his always-upward career, Gardiner scaled more than 700 buildings in North America and Europe. Gordon G. Beld has written more than 200 historical features for newspapers and magazines since the 1960s.
photogrAphy CourtESy grAnD rApiDS publiC librAry ArChiVES
“All that saved the climber from a fall into the crowd below was a grip of a hand on the smallest extension or a perilous foothold on almost smooth masonry.”
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Profile: Influential Women
Committed to ecology
M Marta Swain Company: Clothing Matters Web site: www.clothingmatters.net Community Involvement: WMEAC, West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum, Local First, Green America. “And we partner with any nonprofits who are making a difference.”
arta Swain was having a blast. For two hours, the owner of Clothing Matters mingled with a group of high school girls inside her eco-fashion boutique in East Hills. The teens, preparing for a spring fashion show, tried on garments made of hemp, bamboo, soy — even recycled polyester. For Swain, 52, it was more than just an opportunity to sell some tops and skirts. It was a chance to teach kids about sustainability. And teaching is what Swain is all about. “What is the impact of buying a T-shirt?” she asked, launching into a
tirade about the carcinogens and pesticides found in conventional cotton crops. “Cotton was marketed to us as ‘the fabric of our lives,’” Swain told the students. “It was supposed to be pure and natural. Instead, it was one of the most adulterated fibers.” So a dozen years ago, Swain made it her mission to offer green alternatives. Clothing Matters sells a variety of earthfriendly fibers — including organic cotton — from more than 35 manufacturers around the world. “We even have some local and regional designers,” she said. Her criteria: All must be committed to practices that are friendly to people and the planet.
Photography by Jim Gebben
Marta Swain sees clothing as one more way of connecting with nature — a philosophy she learned from her parents. By Marty Primeau
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Profile: Influential Women “Feel this,” she said, holding out the sleeve of a fleece hoodie, allowing the girls to ooh and aah at the softness. “Isn’t it amazing? It’s made from recycled bottles.” As the teens perused the shelves and racks, Swain walked around offering suggestions and comments. “After all these years,” she said, smiling broadly, “I still get excited about what we offer.”
“Cotton was marketed to us as ‘the fabric of our lives.’ It was supposed to be pure and natural. Instead, it was one of the most adulterated fibers.” — Marta Swain But it’s not really about the fashion. Swain sees clothing as one more way of connecting with nature — a philosophy she learned from her parents, Mary and Robert Swain, who co-founded the West Michigan Environmental Action Council. “At age 10, I understood more about the relevance of ecology than most adults,” Swain said. She was the kid who started a recycled newspaper drive at Wealthy Elementary School. As a teenager, she interned at WMEAC. Her passion for the arts and love of nature led her to the Rhode Island School of Design. “Good design is so inherent in nature,” she said. By 1980, she combined her interests and founded Interplay, workshops designed as “an interactive, creative learning process that taps human potential to inform, inspire, develop and sustain lives and communities, and to improve personal, social and ecological well-being.” She taught her sustainability principles to businesses and nonprofits, traveling around the world and living in cities throughout the United States. “For 18 years, I engaged people in the observation, inquiry and interpretation of how we are all part of nature,” she said. “And I realized that people everywhere really respond well to being part of the solution.” In 1994, she was living in Minnesota when she discovered the “ugly truth about cotton.” Incensed, she remembers thinking, “Someone ought to do some-
thing. I just didn’t think that someone would be me.” Swain had no interest in fashion — or retail. But she was darned if she was going to spend one more precious dollar on apparel that was polluting the earth. Her search for alternative fibers led her to a California company that was manufacturing hemp clothing. Though industrial hemp is grown around the world because it’s durable and earth-friendly, the U.S. government outlawed it in 1936 because it comes from the same plant as marijuana. But Swain didn’t shy away from the association. She moved back to Grand Rapids in 1998 and opened Hemp Goods, a 350-square-foot clothing store in Eastown. Within a year, she was ready to expand. “We were in a great location on Lake, in a wonderful little mall that we shared with a place that made custom cabinets, and a juice bar.” But she had to move when the building was renovated to make way for a new CVS Pharmacy. “With the help of customers, we moved across the street behind Wolfgang’s,” Swain said. “Even though we had zero visibility, there was a lot of word of mouth about us. We even had customers driving from Chicago.” She also changed the store’s name to Clothing Matters, realizing that many people “didn’t discern the difference between hemp and marijuana.” Three years ago, the store moved to its current location 141 Diamond Ave. SE, across the street from Marie Catrib’s. Through the years, her inventory and her customer base have expanded. Now she’s hoping to establish a partnership “to take this business to the next level.” She’s also writing about her experiences through the years. “My first love still is education,” she said. “I want to take what I’ve learned and share it with others.” GR
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Inside » Designer Nicolai Czumaj-bront 22
» critic’s Choice 24
» Art Appreciation 26
Design Nicolai Czumaj-Bront’s Pitch Stools are made from reclaimed wood he finds in salvage yards. » pg22
Photography courtesy Laura Naughton
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Design: Profile
Nicolai Czumaj-Bront designs office furniture at Haworth Design Studio, but his Pitch Stool is a side project he created using reclaimed wood.
Perfecting imperfection
A
s an industrial designer with Haworth Design Studio, Nicolai Czumaj-Bront works in a high-precision environment, creating office furniture for companies that want a sleek, refined look and innovative design. Yet Czumaj-Bront also appreciates imperfection, which is why he took an unpolished approach when considering ideas for a side project. “I had the idea of balancing the beauty of an imperfect material with the high-process world I’ve been in for several years,” he said. Inspired by wood he found in a junkyard, CzumajBront created the Pitch Stool, a seating unit/side table whose contoured silhouette belies the array of knots and cracks that cover its surfaces. To create the stool, the young designer searches salvage yards for reclaimed wood that he arranges into appealing patterns. Then, he takes the bundle
to a model shop, where a CNC cutter uses Czumaj-Bront’s specifications to carve it into a precise, modern shape. The result is what Czumaj-Bront calls a “controlled randomness,” in which contrasting textures, colors and grain patterns form an otherwise pristine profile. The piece’s asymmetry makes it an intriguing project, especially when Czumaj-Bront anticipates the markings that hide inside each block of wood. “Much of it is guessing, since I really can’t see what the wood looks like under the surface and what beautiful imperfections will surface once it’s cut,” CzumajBront said. “I’m not quite sure what I’ll get in the end.” Czumaj-Bront hesitates to name a style that guides his work. However, dualism seems to be a theme — both in his design ethos and in the way he’s pursued his career. The thought of creating something artistic yet useful drew Czumaj-Bront to furniture
Photography by Michael Buck (main); courtesy Nicolai Czumaj-Bront (top right)
Award-winning furniture designer Nicolai Czumaj-Bront is always looking for new artistic ventures. By Tonya Schafer
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Design: Profile
Photography courtesy Laura Naughton (top); Nicolai Czumaj-Bront (bottom)
“Much of it is guessing, since I really can’t see what the wood looks like under the surface and what beautiful imperfections will surface once it’s cut.” — Nicolai Czumaj-Bront
design, which he saw as a marketable field that would offer a paycheck while providing chances for self-expression. After graduating from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign in 2002 with a degree in industrial design, he looked for jobs in his hometown Chicago. He found few opportunities for furniture designers there, so he took a job with DiMonte Group Inc., an Aurora-based industrial design and engineering company. He worked on an array of projects, from computer voting machines to travel bags, and gained experience in product design. Yet the work wasn’t his passion, and when Czumaj-Bront sat at his home computer, he found himself developing furniture designs that he posted online. A Russian Web designer saw his portfolio and suggested they start an Internet collective of designers from around the world. The collaboration eventually ended, but not before staff at Holland-based Haworth Inc. found Czumaj-Bront’s work and asked him to join the company’s design team in 2005. Since then, Czumaj-Bront has worked on several pieces for Haworth, including the NC-B Resonate, a storage unit he developed seven years ago and resurrected when he came to West Michigan. The piece’s plywood shelves form fluid lines that merge into eye-catching shapes — what Haworth’s promotional material calls “a unique vision of sculpted space.” Czumaj-Bront showed the NC-B Resonate at a competition in Chicago for young designers, and did well enough for Haworth to present the piece at NeoCon 2008, an international trade fair for the furnishings industry, where it received a Gold Award.
Czumaj-Bront also worked on Haworth’s lines of Very chairs and Planes tables, impressing coworkers with his practical yet forward-thinking approach. “He’s realistic in dealing with program constraints while keeping a fresh approach to his own work,” said Dan West, principal designer of freestanding furniture for Haworth North America. Czumaj-Bront also is the team’s “resident design blog surfer,” using social media to keep current on trends, and passing along that information to colleagues, West said. “For his age and talent, he has a huge and bright future. He’ll be someone to watch.” Already, fellow designers are keeping their eyes on him. The Pitch Stool has appeared in several design blogs, while W Hotels ordered three stools for its show unit in the W Hollywood Hotel & Residence, an eco-friendly luxury building in Los Angeles. Czumaj-Bront credits much of his success, both at Haworth and with the Pitch Stool, to self-promotion, especially his use of the Internet as a cost-effective medium for publicizing his work. “You have to put yourself out there,” Czumaj-Bront said. “It’s risky, but you never know the connections you’ll make.” Czumaj-Bront’s passion for design has likely played a role in his accomplishments, as well. He’s always on the lookout for new ventures and has several ideas in mind, including a photography project based on the Pitch Stool. When it comes to design, Czumaj-Bront notes, “It’s more of a lifestyle than a job for me.” GR April 2010 Grand Rapids 23
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Design: Critic’s Choice
Sustainability comes full circle by Mark F. Miller
Sustainability has become part of our everyday lexicon. The U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED certification system provides one of the most recognizable methodologies for commissioning sustainable buildings. But it also has resulted in costly high-tech solutions and buildings that are both unresponsive to their climate and far removed from meaningful context. These perceived shortcomings have led to the formation of more intuitive, and far less empirical, guidelines for evaluating sustainability. One such venture, the Original Green, addresses sustainability by establishing building practices based on living traditions — tried and true vernacular construction patterns represented by purposeful, well-crafted buildings that are loved because of their beauty, elegant proportions, and the past achievements they represent. Clear Water Place, 1430 Monroe Ave. NW, with its red Flemish-bond brick walls, glimmering green ceramic tile roof and stately composition, is emblematic of the living traditions manifested in durable, frugal, lovable and flexible buildings. The Mediterranean Revival Style design is both civic and utilitarian, meant to fully express the building’s importance to the community through the use of classic forms and refined architectural massing. The prominent design of the head house tower anchors the main structure and is balanced by symmetrical groupings of buildings that are embellished with graceful arches, elegant window patterns and various hip roofs. This entire ensemble is flanked by two massive cylindrical buildings that were once water tanks for the filtration process and now provide visual proof that functional architecture can indeed be beautiful. The architecture of this complex — formerly known as the Monroe Avenue Water Filtration Plant — is compelling. The rich history of the facility is a reminder of the growth and progress of Grand Rapids and an example of the impact that a structure can Clear Water Place, formerly the historic Monroe Avenue Water Filtration Plant, has been carefully restored as a mixed-use community of offices and residences.
Photography by Jack Poeller
24 Grand Rapids April 2010
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Design: critic’s choice
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have on the health and welfare of citizens. Prior to the filtration plant’s construction, the city’s robust growth had led to severe contamination of local wells and outbreaks of such water-born diseases as typhoid fever. These adverse sanitary conditions immediately improved in December 1912, when the plant became operational and the Grand Rapids water supply became a model of consistency. Considered the most modern and complete drinking water treatment plant in the United States during this period, in 1945 the facility became the first water works in the world to add fluoride to the municipal water supply. The careful restoration of this landmark, which was undertaken by the DeVries Companies, and its subsequent reuse into a mixed-use community of offices and residences, is emblematic of true sustainability. Clear Water Place never went through third-party vetting of its credentials, but the preservation of its robust steel, concrete and masonry construction — rather than tearing it down and carting it off to a landfill — defines the essence of resource stewardship. This act was made possible because of its intrinsic durability and inherent flexibility, and because Ed and Mike DeVries shared an understanding of the structure’s significance to the community. Mark F. Miller is an architect at Nederveld. The concept of the Original Green was created by architect Steve Mouzon and can be viewed at www.originalgreen.org.
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Design: Art Appreciation
Calder: Beyond the sound bites by Joseph Antenucci Becherer
Calder was one of the most prodigious artists of the 20th century. Nestled among hundreds of mobiles, stabiles, prints and drawings are thousands of functional objects, including 1,800 works of jewelry that help form his artistic legacy.
Calder Jewelry, on view at the Grand Rapids Art Museum through April 18, is a thought-provoking look at an American master we thought we knew so well. Since 1969, Grand Rapids has held a special place in its heart for Alexander “Sandy” Calder (1898-1976). The arrival and dedication of “La Grande Vitesse” in downtown Grand Rapids was the watershed moment for arts and culture in the city. Although this story is well known and much of the artist’s biography has been told, the opportunity to see a less known but engaging aspect of this iconic artist’s repertoire is rewarding. Calder was one of the most prodigious artists of the 20th century. Nestled among hundreds of mobiles, stabiles, prints and drawings are thousands of functional objects, including 1,800 works of jewelry that help form his artistic legacy. Working largely in a vocabulary of metals that he could cut, snip, pound and bend, he created works of art that could be worn. Elements of the artist’s presence abound in the cuts and contours, curvilinear and circuitous lines, textured and hammered surfaces. But perhaps the strongest presence exists in the overarching notions of whimsy, joy and visual delight the jewelry exudes. After you survey a number of the jewelry pieces, think about “La Grand Vitesse,” or about “Two Discs” at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Or think about the standing mobiles such as “Red Rudder” on GRAM’s third floor. Beyond the issue of scale and function, what commonalities and differences exist? It is important to think about the basic elements of art. Regardless of artist, a personal visual language builds on a certain vocabulary of elements. When you look, consider the line and outline, the form and shape, the planes and volumes, the materials and surfaces. Considering Calder is the subject at hand, ask yourself if movement is actual or suggested, implied or impossible. Finally, consider
A necklace made by Alexander Calder in 1940 is one of several on display at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
Photography courtesy Maria Robledo
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Design: art appreciation what kind of mood or energy these works exude, individually and collectively. In the end, you will have not just a more fulfilling experience with the objects, but a more complete portrait of the creator. This considered, it is important to remember that artists are frequently multi-faceted in their endeavors. It is easy and logical to think Calder = Sculpture. This is where he made his mark, the sound-bite we can all digest and repeat. Much more complex is to think Calder = Artist = Creator = Object, because the last three elements of this equation are more difficult to define. Like many artists, Calder worked on a variety of fronts, creating from a deep well of ingenuity and physical dexterity that proffered masterpieces in a variety of media in a variety of sizes. Rodin made ceramics, Matisse worked stained glass, Dali made furniture and Picasso — well, Picasso did everything but architecture.
This is a lot to consider when engaging with 100 or so small objects in Calder Jewelry. Yet, after 40 years, Calder still is teaching us about art and creativity in delightful and engaging terms. Contributing Editor Joseph Becherer is a professor at Aquinas College and curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
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It is important to note that many sculptors, painters and architects make jewelry. These endeavors are frequently seen as small sculptures, which is technically accurate but limiting. They are functional objects that have a life well beyond the pedestal or the plaza. True, they adorn, but they have a transformative power that graces the wearers who become works of art or creative adventurers. They are decorative — a longstanding notion in the history of art — but they also are functional and expressive, which is even more ancient.
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Consider alternatives to grass on steep slopes, shady areas or near streams and lakes. In these areas, it takes a lot of extra work (and sometimes chemicals) to maintain grass. Look for other plants, such as ground covers, better suited to soggy soil, slopes or heavy shade.
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Boasting a blow speed of up to 240 miles per hour, Black & Decker’s LeafHog 12 Amp High Performance Blower/Vacuum features variable speed controls for taking care around flower beds, a leaf collection system and a metal mulching impeller that reduces 16 bags down to one. The battery-powered Neuton CE 6.2 Mower earned Organic Gardening’s 2009 Editors’ Choice Award. Suggested for homeowners caring for yards one-third of an acre in size or less, this eco-machine was heralded for chopping down thick, damp grass, leaving fine clippings that decomposed quickly, plus a19-inch cutting width and easy-to-read gauge.
Just Push It
Propelled by global warming concerns — the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a gas-powered lawn mower operating for one hour equals the amount of pollution emitted by a car driven for about 20 miles — interest in old-fashioned push mowers is catapulting. While manual reel options are best-suited for smaller, flatter, well-maintained lawns, homeowners seeking outdoor exercise tap them for larger landscapes, too. Looking to create a putting green in your own backyard? Hudson Star Classic
Grand rapids | Home
Special advertiSing Section
Solar-Powered Service
Fueled by renewable energy — solar panels mounted on top of service trucks — Clean Air Lawn Care’s no-gas Neuton mowers, blowers and trimmers are offering homeowners across West Michigan eco-friendly lawn care services. Owned by Nathan Arnold, the franchise is appreciated, too, for being notably less noisy. He shares these tips for do-it-yourselfers: Mow your lawn to at least 3 inches in height. It allows better root growth and requires less water consumption. Mulch instead of bag: Think of it as free fertilizer, since nutrients return to the soil in clippings. Vertically edge/trim your lawn so that edges aren’t scalped. For more information, visit www.cleanair lawncare.com.
2/25/10 10:10:34 AM
Special Advertising Section
Grand Rapids | Home
Finishing touches
From wall art and lamps to pottery and mirrors, long-time Rockford resident Lynda Volkhardt knows what she likes when she sees it, and “it” is usually French Country — but modern urban décor has found a place, too, in Rockford’s most popular two-in-one shop.
While owner Lynda Volkhardt (at right) and daughter Katie Gaul Unsworth offer products including Dash & Albert rugs, Pine Cone Hill quilts, Nora Fleming serving dishes, Troll Beads, Caldrea lotions and Marie Osmond handbags, they buy whatever strikes them on merchandising ventures. “It just has to be artful, well-made, unique,” Volkhardt noted.
By Lisa M. Jensen Photography by Michael Buck
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Special Advertising Section
Right at Home and adjoining Urban Elements offer a colorful, inviting and inspiring display of contemporary and European-inspired décor for the home that radiates relaxed elegance. “I felt there was really a need for a more affordably priced home accessories store in the area when we first opened seven years ago,” said Volkhardt, who generally selects her unique trove of artwork, accent furniture and home accessories from AmericasMart in Atlanta. “French Country has always been my favorite — mixing fabrics or fitting an informal fabric on a formal chair looks upscale, but still feels very comfortable, so it never goes out of style. But I was surprised to find I was drawn to urban furnishing and décor, as well, when customers began expressing their interest in it.” Because Volkhardt doesn’t necessarily follow trends, there’s no set rule when it comes to what items make it to her shelves or exposed brick walls. So while a wide-ranging base of regular customers — who come everywhere from Grandville to Chicago — can always expect to see inventive seasonal displays and gifts ranging from wine stoppers to newly introduced Troll Beads, they’ll discover Right at Home pulses with ever-evolving finds of fancy. The same can be said for items found in Urban Elements: Contemporary lines and one-of-a-kind reclaimed finds like an artful mirror crafted from salvaged ceiling tins or decorative reclaimed copper wall panels
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Right At Home/Urban Elements
Grand Rapids | Home
GR Home Showcase:
expand a customer’s horizons even further. Shoppers seeking a fresh look for their mantel, table or any other place or space in their home immediately feel “right at home” in this store of the same name. Featuring a variety of restaurants including award-winning Red’s On the River, specialty stores, art in the park, farmer’s market and live music throughout Michigan’s warmest weeks, Rockford’s burgeoning shopping district is picturesque and friendly.
2/25/10 10:10:46 AM
Special advertiSing Section
gR home showcase:
Right At Home/Urban Elements
CoNtEmPorarY lINES anD oNE-oF-a-KIND rEClaImED FINDS eXPanD a
Grand rapids | Home
CustoMeR’s hoRiZons eVen FuRtheR.
RIGHT AT HOME/ URBAN ELEMENTS
Right at home, located on Main street in the old Lynda A. Volkhardt, Owner hessler opera house build30 North Main Street, Rockford (616) 866-7716 ing, expanded its space by www.rightathomeinrockford.com adding the storefront of Inspirations: The verbal support — compliments and feedurban elements. shoppers back — and continuing enthusiasm of our customers. It’s very appreciate the nostalgic fulfilling to us when regular customers drop in just to say they warmth of creaky wood were in need of their “Right At Home” fix. floors and exposed brick Career High Point: When a customer came in and asked if and plaster walls, as well she could move in — it was the ultimate compliment! as the thoughtfully chosen Personal High Point: After (too many) years of shopping in resort towns with fabulous little shops thinking we need a assortment of products. store like this in Rockford, finally opening one myself. But beyond this, Volkhardt’s team of employees — including daughter katie gaul unsworth — all pair their design savvy with friendly banter and relaxed collaboration.
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“Whether customers are looking for a gift, want to replace something on their mantel or have a design problem to solve,” unsworth said, “we all take the time to understand their needs and offer ideas.” Clients seeking more than seasoned suggestions can tap the talents of Right at home’s professional interior designer, Cheryl sayfie. Cheryl is also available to make house calls, whether it’s for full-fledged design or just to accessorize. “We’re always more than willing to show shoppers how to freshen their table or mantel by re-dressing our own in the store with different accessories,” Volkhardt shared. “our approach is friendly and informal. “as long as we’ve helped our customers enjoy their home more, we’re happy.”
2/25/10 10:10:52 AM
By Robin Luymes Photography by Michael Buck
Taking the green road With Fred Keller at the helm, Cascade Engineering has been leading the sustainability bandwagon for more than 20 years.
F
red Keller was preaching sustainability long before anyone coined the term. As founder and CEO of Cascade Engineering, he and his crew have been leading the way for environmental stewardship, from the earthfriendly products the company manufactures to the processes guiding daily operations. It all starts with Cascade’s statement of purpose: “To have a positive impact on our society, the environment and to be financially successful.” Or, as Keller puts it: “First, we find something good to do, and then we find a way to make it good business.” Back in the ’80s, Cascade was focused on being a good vendor to its main clients, including automotive companies. “We used to think of quality, cost and delivery,” Keller said. “It was all about becoming an ‘excellent manufacturer.’ From an environ-
mental standpoint, we were just looking to comply with regulations at the lowest cost possible. “In the last 20 years, however, there has been tremendous growth in our understanding that our environment is us, and we need to be involved in making sure that not only our local but also our stratospheric environment is safe.” Sustainability permeates everything the company makes, including trash containers, wind turbines, solar panels, water filtration systems and automotive acoustical barriers. The company even is partnering with others to launch an environmentally friendly lunchbox. A mother in Seattle figured out she spent $190 per year on disposable paper and plastic lunch bags and containers. She designed a reusable lunchbox with a snap-
Fred Keller
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Cascade CEO Fred Keller discusses the merits of an environmentally friendly lunchbox with staff members Samia Brown, Christina Keller and Jo-Anne Perkins.
on lid and compartments to keep various parts of a lunch separate. Then she contacted Keller and asked Cascade to produce it. “For us, we’re thinking of innovation and sustainability in everything we do,” Keller said. “It doesn’t define a particular product or market. The realization is that going after sustainable markets is the most survivable strategy.” Sustainability goes beyond products. Cascade’s Welfareto-Career program trains and provides jobs for individuals who were on welfare programs. Cascade was instrumental in developing the county-wide Re-entry Employment Resource Center, which helps individuals who were incarcerated get work experience that will help them find permanent employment. Cascade’s facilities, including its LEED Platinum-certified headquarters, are eco-
friendly. Internal efforts by employee “recycle warriors,” along with investigative “dumpster dives” to determine waste that could have been recycled, have resulted in dramatic decreases in the amount of waste leaving Cascade’s premises. “Our landfill costs dropped from $268,000 in 2002 to just $8,000 last year,” said Christina Keller, a project manager and Fred’s daughter. Keller teaches sustainability as a visiting lecturer at Cornell University’s Johnson School of Management. Through Cascade’s Quest Sustainable Solutions business unit, the company is teaching other businesses about sustainability. And, given Christina’s passion for sustainability and her leadership role at the company, it appears her dad has done a good job teaching her, too. While the future of Cas-
cade remains uncharted, with a foundation based on sustainability and innovation, it would appear that future is bright. Check out some of Cascade’s diverse line of earthfriendly products.
Smart trash containers Cascade Engineering’s ICON Series of trash containers have revolutionized how trash is handled. Technology can be imbedded in the containers to inform the decision-making of municipalities and trash haulers. “We went from serial numbers to bar codes to RFID tags,” said Jo-Anne Perkins, general manager of Cascade Cart Solutions. “Our customers insisted that we add intelligence to the carts,” she said. “The RFID tags can inform municipalities how much trash and recyclables are picked up at the curb of each house” along a route. In some com-
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“In the last 20 years, however, there has been tremendous growth in our understanding that our environment is us, and we need to be involved in making sure that not only our local but also our stratospheric environment is safe.” — Fred Keller
munities, this has led to a payas-you-go system based on weight, which creates added incentives for residents to recycle and compost. “Recyclables make up half the trash, and organics add another 30 percent. When you remove e-waste too, you’re at less than 20 percent” of what used to be trash, said Keller. He noted that recyclable materials are increasing in value as more manufacturers find more uses for them. In fact, “we will see more mining of landfills” for the valuable materials that have been disposed of in years past. In addition to trash carts, Cascade Cart Solutions also makes the ubiquitous blue recycling bins and WasteMate trash containers used in parks, malls and arenas. Most include high levels of recycled content and are 100 percent recyclable. Typically, recycled content is sandwiched between virgin plastic, resulting in a durable product that maintains the aesthetic look desired. In fact, when a cart has run its course, Cascade Engineering will take it back to be recycled and used in new carts.
Water for the world Christina Keller is excited about the company’s new HydrAid BioSand Water Filter, launched in partnership with Dick DeVos’ Wind-
quest Group. Cascade, which already was manufacturing the lightweight filter, obtained the intellectual property rights from Spring Lake-based International Aid early this year. Not only will the new HydrAid program accelerate the distribution of the filter, addressing the global safe water crisis, it also will strive to cultivate sustainable entrepreneurship in the developing world. Too often,
Fred Keller and his daughter, Christina, examine Cascade’s new HydrAid BioSand Water Filter, designed to address the global safe water crisis. The Rain Stone, left, is a rain harvesting collection barrel with a modern design.
she said, when products like the HydrAid are sent to areas where they are needed, no local resource exists when problems arise or new parts are needed. “This micro-business model helps put a person on the scene who can help ensure quality control, proper instal-
lation and use,” she said. The technology is “similar to that used by filtration plants for municipalities.” Initially, the program will be rolled out in Honduras and the Dominican Republic, although units also are being sent to Haiti, where the need is urgent. To get the units into Haiti and ensure proper installation and operation, Cascade is working with nonprofits Pure Water for the April 2010 Grand Rapids 37
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World and Thirsting to Serve, as well as Amway (which is providing 1,000 “safe water containers” that use a chlorination and dechlorination process that allows filtered water to be used immediately), Dow and other organizations. “This is not just relief,” said Christina. “It’s providing 10 years of water.” And water has never been more important. “The new most-valued product has gone from gasoline to water,” said Fred Keller. Getting clean water where it is needed most is a humanitarian effort but, for the long-term, creating a business model is necessary. “It reduces
abandonment of products. And paying for products ensures you have the right product and ensures longevity in that marketplace.”
Renewable energy The Swift Wind Turbine manufactured and marketed by Cascade Renewable Energy brings the power of wind energy to the homes and businesses of customers with “a good wind regime,” said Brown. If you don’t know whether the breezes in your backyard are sufficient, just visit www.chooserenewables. com, submit your address, and CRE will
It’s all about ...venturing outside of the box.
let you know whether you’re a good candidate for wind or solar renewable energy. CRE sells solar energy panels, too. “Our e-commerce site educates the public about conservation and efficiency,” said Samia Brown, Cascade’s director of marketing. “It’s about understanding energy, conserving it, and then making your own.” The site also offers energysaving light bulbs, eco-gadgets, waterefficiency products and more. “We want to be a leader in distributed renewable energy,” said Brown. If a home or business address has potential for wind power, CRE will rent you an anemometer to gauge readings before making a wind turbine purchase. Brown stressed that CRE doesn’t want to sell an energy solution to a customer where it won’t be effective. In a good wind regime, a Swift Wind Turbine will provide up to 20 percent of a home’s energy usage. Keller is excited about the potential for solar, too. An installation for Louis Padnos Iron & Metal Co. will be the “largest solar program in West Michigan to date,” he said.
Cars of the future
Mary Doezema Raku Mask Artist
Expand your views. See the possibilities.
The automotive industry continues to be important for Cascade. A development in recent years has been the “light-weighting” of cars to help meet fuel efficiency standards. An example, said Christina, are lightweight hybrid acoustical barriers that eliminate eight pounds of weight from a vehicle. Traditional acoustical technologies for front of dash sound treatment are either quite sound-resistant but heavy, or lightweight but noisy. Finding a way to use recycled plastic to reduce the noise and save weight increases the value of the car, and saves gas. While eight pounds may not sound like a lot, it’s only one component among many other light-weighting initiatives. Each pound of mass removed from the vehicle conserves about 3.25 gallons of gas over the course of a year. “This helps make our customers more sustainable,” said Christina, “and it helps them meet their numbers.” GR Robin Luymes is a freelance writer based in Grand Rapids.
966 Cherry St. | Grand Rapids, MI Phone (616) 451-8817 yourstrulygalleria@sbcglobal.net
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Award Winning
9 Locations Throughout West Michigan!
in Cascade
Open to the
Public
www.PaneraBread.com
Mon to Sat 11-11 | Sun 10-8
www.watermarkcc.com • 616.949.0570
2008 Winner
Award of Excellence
-Wine Spectator
Amazing Steaks
& Fresh Seafood
Lunch 11:30 - 4 M-F Dinner 5 - 10 Mon.-Thurs. 5 - 11 Fri.-Sat.
Reservations Suggested
Downtown Grand Rapids Monroe Center & Ionia
www.LouisBenton.com • 616.454.7455
2009-2010
VOTED BEST PIZZA 6 YEARS IN A ROW! PIZZA AND A WHOLE LOT MORE!
400 Ada Dr. SE (in the thornapple village)
676-5400
www.vitalesada.com
Raise a glass to friendship
T
here is a place where you and your friends can laugh and sip wines from the most award-winning winery in the Midwest. Stop by any of our tasting rooms where we offer free tastings and special prices on our vintages daily. Saugatuck Tasting Room:
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Tabor Hill Wine Port Downtown, 214 Butler St.
(269) 857-4859
185 Mt. Tabor Rd. • Buchanan, MI 49107 800-283-3363 • www.taborhill.com April 2010 Grand rapids 39
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Back to nature Blandford nature Center’s new director is looking to blaze new trails to become a better resource for the community.
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By Alexandra Fluegel Photography by johnny quirin
T Opposite page: David Rankin, Rachael DeWit and Mark Rankin gather around a bonfire in the wigwam on the grounds of Blandford Nature Center.
he landscape of Blandford Nature Center hasn’t changed much in its 53-year history. The 143 acres of dense woods and farmland are still filled with ponds, streams and wildflowers, and the resident wildlife still roam freely on the grounds. Yet in the past few years, the organization has undergone major changes and now welcomes a new role as an independent nonprofit. Describing Blandford as a “jewel of Grand Rapids,” new director Annoesjka Steinman plans to find new revenue sources and enhance community awareness that Blandford is now a charitable organization. “We are in charge of our destiny now,” she said. “We can blaze new trails to become a better resource for the community and fill a niche as the ultimate place for outdoor educational fun.” When Mary Jane Dockeray founded
Blandford in 1968, she knew what a great resource it could be. As a child, she played on the land, then known as Collins’ Woods. Later, as a nature lecturer for the Grand Rapids Public Museum, she took students there on field trips. She still serves as a project coordinator and lecturer. Located two blocks north of bustling Leonard Street on the city’s northwest side, Blandford’s unique urban location makes its wealth of resources easily accessible to the community. The nature center began with 10 acres donated to the city of Grand Rapids by Victor Blandford. Additional grants and private donations funded the eventual acquisition of another 133 acres that make up the center that is home to miles of walking trails, a wildlife rescue and community gardens. Blandford School, a sixth-grade program of Grand Rapids Public Schools, offers students the unique educational experience of using the outdoors as a classroom. April 2010 Grand Rapids 41
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Annoesjka Steinman, executive director of Blandford Nature Center, walks along the wooded trails with Mary Jane Dockeray, who founded the center in 1968. Dockeray still volunteers at Blandford.
“Drawing of the Sun” by artist Brian Goblik, a 2009 ArtPrize entry, is displayed outside the Blandford Visitor Center.
GRPS began operating Blandford in 2004 when the nature center became too costly for the city to run. When the schools faced a budget crisis and the center was threatened with closing, the administrative board decided on a merger. In 2007, Blandford merged with Mixed Greens, a local nonprofit organization that helped plant and facilitate gardens in local schools. Since then, Blandford has undergone changes in leadership. The founder of Mixed Greens, Lisa Rose Starner, served as director of Blandford/Mixed Greens for about a year. Bert Bleke, Blandford’s administrative board president and retired GRPS superintendent, served as acting director until September 2009, when Steinman was chosen as the new executive director. “The board was impressed with Annoesjka’s experience at forming a vision for a nonprofit organization, and then working effectively in a community to make that vision a reality,” Bleke said. Steinman’s first step as director was to relegate Mixed Greens to an educational program within Blandford. The students now use plots of land there for their gardens, which Steinman said is more sustainable because there is staff to tend the gardens when school is not in session.
The change also brought more visibility to the Blandford name. In February, the board approved a new strategic plan aimed at making Blandford a more prominent feature of the Grand Rapids landscape. “We want to get people out here to see what we’re doing and why we’re doing it,” Dockeray said. “We want people to know we’re alive and well, and that they are a part of what goes on here.” And there’s plenty going on. Blandford’s Community Garden has always drawn in families from around the area looking to spend quality time tending a garden. This year Blandford has doubled the amount of plots available for rent with the aim of drawing in other members from the community. Dockeray called the gardens a great resource for apartment- and condominium-dwellers who don’t have the space to plant their own gardens. Another top priority is Blandford Farm. Steinman wants to expand the area of the half-acre farm and introduce new crops to create a unique community asset. In the past, Blandford Farm served as an educational tool for area students to learn about where food comes from. Steinman sees it as an opportunity to create a small, community-supported agriculture that could employ inner-city youth in the summer and provide food to local food banks. “We’re evaluating it, and we’re cur-
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rently working with Aquinas College students to come up with a business plan. We see a lot of potential with the sustainability around food as a focus of where Blandford intends to go,” Steinman said. Blandford is also launching a new logo and a new membership structure, but it is the new events that they hope will draw the most attention. Currently, Blandford hosts three main festivals: Fall Harvest, Homestead Holidays and Sugarbush, the annual maple syrup-making festival. Adding new events would attract a wider range of visitors and allow people to become familiar with what Blandford has to offer. “We’re looking for people who have an interest in the outdoors and all the things we do out here to come and be part of us,” said Dockeray. As a nonprofit, volunteers are essential to the sustainability of the organization. They help maintain the grounds and buildings, and lend a hand during events and programs. They also serve as Blandford’s public voice, said
Steinman, which makes recruiting new volunteers another area of focus. Blandford, which is still undergoing financial difficulties, needs more volunteers to spread the word about the center’s nonprofit status. “We are looking to diversify our revenue sources among program fees, memberships, sponsorships, underwriting, grants, gifts and retail sales,” said Steinman. Currently, the program fees Blandford charges schools that use its educational resources offset one fifth of its operating costs. The rest of the costs are funded by grants and private donations. Dockeray said the community always has supported Blandford “and it needs to continue to do so.” The switch to a nonprofit has been a good one, said Steinman. “This allows us to fulfill our mission of changing lives through fun and engaging learning experiences in the natural world.” GR Alexandra Fluegel is a Gemini intern and a student at Grand Valley State University.
Upper right: Blacksmith Frank Phillips gives a demonstration in the blacksmith shop, one of Blandford’s Heritage Buildings. Lower right: Angela Haan, a sixth grader at C.A. Frost Elementary School, taps a maple tree for its syrup. Middle: Students from C.A. Frost Elementary School wait as caretaker Mark Rankin hands out drills for maple tree tapping.
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The best that Italy has to offer in the heart of Grand Rapids...
Open to the public
AWARD WINNING
LUNCH Mon - Fri 11:30-4:00 PM
Globally Influenced American Cuisine
DINNER Mon - Thurs 4:00-10:00 PM Fri 4:00-11:00 PM Sat 5:00-11:00 PM
122 MONROE CENTER, ST NW DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS 616-235-9339 www.trecugini.com
4100 Thousand Oaks One mile East of E. Beltline on 5 Mile Rd. 616-447-7750 www.thousandoaksgolf.com
Now is the time for change Business luncheons, intimate dinners, appetizers and cocktails. Or, our award winning Sunday brunch. Charley’s Crab is dedicated to ensuring your visit is excellent.
Real Food | Real Fresh | Real Fast Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner
Mon - Thurs 11:30 - 10 and Fri 11:30 - 11 Sat 4:30 - 11 (no lunch) Sun Brunch 10 - 3, Dinner 4:30 - 9
310 Pearl St. NW | Grand Rapids 63 Market St., Downtown Grand Rapids 616.459.2500 www.muer.com
616-235-1342 complimentary parking
Wi n e r y & Ta s t i n g R o o m
• Winery Direct Discounts • Retail Sales • Tours Available, call for more information • Free Wine Tasting at the Winery or at our Tasting room in downtown Saugatuck.
The Lake Effect Everyone Loves.
6130 - 122nd Ave. Fennville, MI 49408 I-196 exit 34, follow the “winery” signs. Open year around, check our website for hours. 800-432-6265 • winery@fennvalley.com www.fennvalley.com
advertise your restaurant
Here ContaCt Karla at (616) 459-4545 for more information.
44 Grand rapids April 2010
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City Guide At Corez almost every dish includes a creative take on ingredients. » pg46 Photography by Michael buck
Inside » Dining Review 46
» Chef profile 48
» Fresh Hops 50
» Making Tracks 64
» Clubs ‘n’ pubs 68
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City guide: Dining Review
A friendly neighborhood eatery THInK FRIEnDLy BaR WITH a modern, artsy atmosphere and innovative cuisine. That’s Corez, which bills itself as a “neighborhood eatery and bar.” The East Hills destination combines big city cool and friendly intimacy with an eclectic menu that has offerings to please most palettes, from conservative to daring. Practically everything on the menu includes a creative take on ingredients — even the oblong-shaped pizzas. There is a daily selection of such nibbles as olives, nuts and bread, cheese plates and charcuterie selections, plus a variety of small and “not so small” plates, as well as desserts. Some dishes are artfully presented, while others are more simply presented but with hearty, rustic appeal in unusually shaped white dinnerware. Arriving at 6 p.m. on a Friday, the afterwork crowd was winding down in the bar area. There was a wide array of dining customers, from young families to those leaning toward full maturity. By 7:30, the place really began to fill up with the dating crowd, creating a lively vibe. We wanted to take it slow and enjoy a pleasant bottle of wine and a variety of dishes. Our server suggested we try one of the handcrafted cocktails while considering our dinner choices and the sizable wine/cocktail menu. The O.M.G. ($9) from the menu’s 19 listed featured cocktails was a happy mixture of jalapeno/cilantroinfused tequila with Grand Marnier and housemade sour. It was a bold margarita with a kick of heat and herb. We also tried a selection from the 12 classic cocktails: the Dark and Stormy ($9), combining Gosling’s dark rum, lime, ginger, ginger syrup, bitters and soda, with a delightful gingery bite. Equally appealing is the wine selection. Wines by the glass are broken into categories such as “aromatic charmers” or “throwdown reds” with descriptions of each wine. For those who want to sample several, Corez offers twoounce glasses as well as a six-ounce pour. After making some decisions for our starters, and with our server’s assurance that we could cap the bottle to go if need be, we ordered a bottle of Chateau des Tourtes 2008 Cotes du
photogrAphy by MichAel buck
by irA crAAVen
46 Grand rapids April 2010
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City guide: Dining Review
photogrAphy by MichAel buck
the east hills destination combines big city cool and friendly intimacy with an eclectic menu that has offerings to please most palettes, from conservative to daring.
Blaye Blanc ($26), an affordable white Bordeaux that blends Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. It was billed “zappy acid, gorgeous white peach, kiwi and minced chive nuances,” and was clean and tartly fruity. It was especially nice with the cheese and pistachio-stuffed dates ($8) that our server said is a popular small plate selection. Warm, creamy cheese and pistachios burst with flavor tucked inside five grilled dates that are lined up atop a long slice of crisply grilled bread, adding a bit of crunch to the multi-flavored treat. Adding to the taste profile was a puddle of spicysweet aioli. A chiffonade of greens decorated the plate. We also ordered the braised short ribs ($10) from the same menu section. The melt-in-yourmouth ribs were arranged on a generous bed of creamy, rich polenta with the tiniest touch of crunch, and topped with a sweet-savory fig and onion relish and a sprinkling of greens. This is a great place to order multiple dishes to share. From the list of four sandwiches — American Bison Burger ($10.50), spicy pork ($8), crispy whitefish ($9) and daily feature ($8) — we chose the crispy whitefish. The soft bak-
ery bun was toasted sandwich-side and held two thick pieces of fillet which were, indeed, perfectly crispy yet juicy on the inside, topped with house-made tartar sauce and a tangy red cabbage slaw. For an additional $2, one can add fries or greens or both (add an egg “and make it sloppy” for $1). We chose the greens, a generous pile of lightly dressed red romaine. The greens were nice and fresh but we asked for salt and pepper to add a little zing to the rather bland dressing. A nice surprise, we were brought wells of coarse Franciscan sea salt and fresh-cracked peppercorns. The tables are sans salt and pepper containers, because, quite frankly, the dishes need no extras. Our final dinner selection was from the six listed “not so small plates”: the ricotta gnocchi with pork ragout ($9 for the half order, $17 for whole). Rich and creamy, the little ricottastuffed dumplings were topped with fall-apart pork and gravy sauce along with chunks of fresh butternut squash, all sprinkled with fresh sage. The sweet and savory flavors and tender pork translated to comfort in a bowl. It’s another dish that warrants a return visit. The six desserts (mostly $7) all sounded tempting, from the bread pudding and pumpkin panna cotta to the maple tart and seasonal fruit crisp. We chose the warm chocolate cake ($7) — two small soufflé-style cakes leaned against each other on a puddle of chocolate sauce, a generous sprinkling of brandied cherries and a scoop of cherry-chocolate ice cream, all drizzled with warm chocolate sauce. All in all, a delightful dining experience.
dIners aWarded
96
poInts
coreZ neIghborhood eatery & bar 919 cherry st. se grand rapids 855-2310 www.corezwinebar.com
gr
ira’s rating system Food: selection, variety, product quality, taste, preparation, innovation and consistency. service: hospitable, knowledgeable and prompt. value: pricing, number of à la carte items, consistency. Beverages: selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Ambiance: general atmosphere; overall cleanliness. (grand rapids Magazine editors, American culinary Federation greater grand rapids chapter, grcc’s secchia institute for culinary education instructors and beverage distributors all contributed to these established guidelines.)
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City guide: Chef profile
He’s electric in the kitchen Just A yeAr AFter opening the electric cheetAh, eXecutiVe cheF cory deMint hAs opened A second eAtery on weAlthy street. by JulIe burch
chef cory deMint’s
electric cheetah reuben slaw half a head of red cabbage, chopped 2 chopped organic carrots ¾ cup garlic aioli or heavy mayonnaise 3 tablespoon raw sugar 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper 2 teaspoons lemon juice salt and pepper to taste
a career in advertising, DeMint couldn’t avoid the fact that he loved food. Nor that what he really understood was the restaurant industry. By his count, he had worked in over 35 restaurants, from chains to five-star places. “That many jobs opened my eyes to things that work in Grand Rapids and what doesn’t work,” he said. “Some of the best chefs don’t necessarily go to school for it. It’s about using your mouth. We don’t use specific recipes here. I encourage all the cooks to taste and to go for it.” As an East Hills resident, DeMint witnessed the re-emergence of the surrounding areas and felt he was in the right place at the right time to start his own restaurant. Together with the construction expertise of his brother Todd, they put the juice to The Electric Cheetah — and the villagers rejoiced. “We think of Wealthy Street as being a place of talents and people who take risks,” he said. “Our menu reflects a collection of tastes of the residents of the neighborhood.” DeMint and his sweetheart, Jana Potoka, have an infant son, Ira, and share their space with three dachshunds. How did you get started cooking? In my office, I have a picture my Mom gave me of my grandma basting a turkey, and I was on a stepstool peeking at what she was doing. To this day, I just seem to have a heightened sense of smell that I think affects the way I taste things. I’m always looking for that texture-temperature-flavor combination I’ve never had before. When I was a kid, I went to a really small school and the lunch ladies actually made their own food. One of them made turkey tetrazzini, and I went home and started working with my Mom to recreate it at home. What is it you like about cooking? It matches my personality. It depends on my mood and my menu is moody. That’s what I like about food. If I don’t like the taste of it, I can change it. I would compare it to playing an instrument. In cooking, I get to choose the instruments I play by the
quality of the ingredients that I put into it. I’ve got a goal I want to achieve with food: I know this is what I want it to taste like and I have to use my own instincts to get to that taste. The reward is you get to eat something delicious. How would you describe the menu at The Electric Cheetah? We change the menu every two months trying to use what’s best and fresh and in season. I don’t have a set of rules that I follow or a certain style. It’s certainly a fusion and very comfortable food, like the meat loaf sandwich. Ours is made with all local meat. We use a blend of mushrooms, shallots, garlic and rosemary that we roast separately, and a combination of Creswick Farms beef, pork and lamb to make our meatloaf. We grill it to order and it ends up on the sandwich with smoked provolone cheese and fresh tomatoes when we can get them, with roasted tomato sauce, sautéed Brussels sprouts and haystack onions. So while it’s a meatloaf sandwich, it’s got some culinary weight. We have around 20 craft root beers and expect our liquor license any day now. We have over 20 vegetarian items, some vegan options and can meet gluten-free requirements.
“My menu is moody. that’s what i like about food. if i don’t like the taste of it, i can change it.” — cory deMint Where do you get your inspiration for the menu changes? Everywhere. For inspiration, I’ll go and look at food and associate a taste with a picture. Then I’ll get all these flavors that start to happen in my mouth that I try to duplicate on the plate. Do you have a business or kitchen philosophy that guides you? The one thing that was with me from day one is
photogrAphy by MichAel buck
S
ome people are born to cook. It seems Cory DeMint, owner and executive chef of The Electric Cheetah, is one of them. Already he has opened a second eatery — The Electric Eel, a noodle-centric take-out and catering spot — just down the street at 1133 Wealthy St. SE. Both locations offer a from-scratch menu using ingredients sourced from local farmers to the fullest extent possible. Even though he expected to use his business and marketing degree from Grand Valley State University to pursue
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Photography by Michael Buck
City Guide: Chef Profile
that I’m going to serve a quality product using as many local ingredients as I can. I’m going to keep my prices reasonable and not sacrifice cooking technique to bring those flavors to the table. It would make sense for us to get frozen, bagged sweet potato fries. It would save oil and time and cost less money; however, the difference in flavor between a frozen, predone sweet potato and the fresh Michigan sweet potatoes cut by hand, cooked in fresh oil and seasoned with simple sea salt and the fresh rosemary we grow in our front window boxes — it just doesn’t compare at all. What are you most likely to cook at home? Generally the home cooking that I do is for a family party, and I find myself cooking my mother’s classic recipes for dinner parties — like Mom’s Swedish meatballs. I have incredible memories of going to my Aunt Arlene and Uncle Fred’s house on the lake where my aunt had a galley-style kitchen, and she would make these great Swedish meatballs. What five ingredients do you always keep stocked at home? Organic milk, Pastureland butter, which is an organic sweet butter from Minnesota, ice cream, some sort of kettle chips and definitely olive oil. What would you like our readers
to know about The Electric Cheetah? When you come here, you are going to get something you can’t get anywhere else, period. The corned beef is made for us; the burger is grass-fed free-range beef; the pork is roasted and seasoned by us. Everything is made from scratch. Do you have any advice for the home cook? Throw away the recipes and rely on your own tastes. Experiment. The only way you’re going to become a better cook is if you stop following recipes and just follow your tastes. Has a signature dish emerged from the menu at The Electric Cheetah? I guess maybe it’s our Reuben. It’s one of the most popular sandwiches on the menu and people tell me all the time it’s the best Reuben they’ve ever had. Tell us about the recipe you’re sharing here. It’s for the spicy-dill slaw on our Reuben. To make a Reuben, you’ve got to start with a high-quality corned beef product. Ours is free-range grass-fed beef that we roast in-house and slice paper thin, with melted Swiss cheese and caramelized onion to give it sweetness. And we make a spicy-dill red-cabbage slaw, which gives it a little heat and an earthy taste from the dill, all grilled on pumpernickel bread, which is made by Schnitz Bakery. GR April 2010 Grand Rapids 49
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City guide: fresh hops
Northern Michigan breweries
LOOKInG aT a MaP of breweries published in the Michigan Beer Guide, available in many local microbreweries and craft beer stores, there are 77 commercial breweries in Michigan. Sixteen are in what I define as Northern Michigan, an imaginary boundary that begins with Cadillac and goes north to the Keweenaw Peninsula in the UP. Northern Michigan beer is hard to find in Grand Rapids, but I did find some at Siciliano’s Market, 2840 Lake Michigan Drive NW. The Keweenaw Brewing Co. is located in the college town of Houghton in the UP. The first surprise is that the beer is packaged in cans — unheard of in the craft brewery world. Keweenaw’s Lift Bridge Brown Ale had a rich malty flavor with a mild finish, while its Widowmaker Black Ale was quite black and malty but finished light on the tongue. Both poured with a foamy head but seemed a little flat once they settled down. I think the aluminum can negatively affected the flavor of the beer. I would like to try these at the brewery, without the can. Traverse City is arguably the capital of Northern Michigan, and it is here that you will find the greatest concentration of microbreweries. north Peak Brewery is a brewpub and res-
taurant in downtown TC. Its Siren Amber Ale is reddish gold in color and pours with a lively, effervescent head. The flavor is expertly balanced with a sharp caramel flavor on the tongue and a dry hop finish. This was a good one. Although not technically in Traverse City, Leelanau Brewery is close enough to be considered as such. Its Whaleback White Ale was expensive at $10.99 for a pint. A closer look revealed that this beer is not made in Northern Michigan but produced through contract with Jolly Pumpkin brewery in Dexter, near Ann Arbor. Jolly Pumpkin recently opened a microbrewery on Old Mission Point just outside Traverse City, so I guess it’s all good. Brewed in the style of a traditional European bière blanche (white beer), Whaleback is light and flavorful with complex flavors of traditional ingredients and spices. I tasted the coriander and oak flavorings immediately, but others, such as lemongrass and basil, kept sneaking into the profile. It was very good and well worth the money. Finally, there is Shorts Brewery, based in Bellaire. With microbrewery operations in the city center and full-scale brewery production in nearby Elk Rapids, Shorts makes some of the best beer north of Grand Rapids. I picked up three of its production beers but highly recommend a visit because there are beers there that you will never see on the shelf. Shorts’ Huma Lupa Licious IPA is extremely hopped and flavorful. If you love IPA, this beer will not disappoint. The Bellaire Brown Ale has a drinkable full flavor that leaves your mouth clean but refreshed. Shorts Brewery has an established reputation for creativity. While I am somewhat open to new processes and ingredients, I tend to appreciate traditional recipes. Über Goober Oatmeal Stout is a seasonal offering with a unique flavor — peanuts. I really liked this beer. The heavy dark malty flavors were wonderfully offset by the peanuts and hops. Even if you don’t like fruit in your beer (peanuts are a fruit), I think that a blind tasting would find you grabbing at words to define the mysterious flavor. Contributing Editor Jon C. Koeze is cable television administrator for the city of Grand Rapids. He has made and tasted beer since 1980.
photogrAphy by JAck poeller
by Jon c. koeZe
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Classic Cuisine Lavish Luxury
Prices start at
149
$
inspired by the works of
Paul GauGuin
L o c at e d i n t h e d o w n t o w n c o u r t ya r d b y M a r r i o t t 616.242.6000
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City guide
grand rapids magazine has compiled this list of selected area restaurants as a service to our readers. the recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors. restaurants are included in the guide by virtue of overall quality. we have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing.
Casual Dining 8th street grIll — This haven obliges with entrées ranging from catfish valdosta to ribs, along with sandwiches, salads, burgers and pasta. Closed sun. 20 w 8th st, holland, (616) 392-5888. www.8thstreetgrille.com. h, l, D, 3, v, MC, ae $ 84 east Food & spIrIts — neat restoration lends atmosphere to this place specializing in unique pasta dishes and thin-crust pizzas. house specialty is baked spaghetti pie. Closed sun. 84 e 8th st, holland, (616) 396-8484. www. 84eastpasta.com h, l, D, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds ¢-$ anna’s house — family dining offers great breakfast fare. open daily for breakfast and lunch. 3874 plainfield ave ne, 361-8500. h, b, l ¢ applebee’s neIghborhood grIll & bar — “america’s favorite neighbor” offers casual dining and a full-service bar. 3851 alpine ave ne, 784-6199; 1375 28th st sw, 261-2588; 4955 28th st se, 977-1900; 3250 grand Ridge Dr ne, 364-9492; 4488 potomac ave sw, 534-8173; 4475 lake Michigan Dr nw, 453-3623; 1685 Marketplace Dr se, gaines Twp, 698-9342. www. applebees.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae ¢-$ arnIe’s bakery & restaurant — gR favorite for sandwiches, baked goods and desserts; dinner menu and good breakfasts. open daily. 3561 28th st, 956-7901; 777 54th st sw, 532-5662; 34 squires st, Rockford, 866-4306. www.arniesres taurants.com h, b, l, D, 3, v, MC, ae $ bar louIe — urban-cool décor at woodland shopping Center. Menu offers a variety of signature sandwiches, appetizers, deluxe burgers and hearty entrées. More than 20 domestic, imported and microbrew beers, along with a nice by-theglass or bottle wine selection and specialty cocktails. outdoor seating. 3191 28th st se, 885-9050. www.barlouieamerica.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ bd’s MongolIan barbeQue — Concoct stirfry sensations by choosing from a variety of veggies, meats, spices, oils and sauces, then stand back and watch the chef do the work. Convivial atmosphere. open 11 am daily. 2619 28th st se, 957-7500. www.gomongo.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $
and appetizer specials 4-7 pm. Closed sun. 151 ottawa ave nw, 451-8000. www.bite.thegilmore collection.com. h, b, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$$
Hot off the Grill
blue plate — upscale décor and a menu that covers all tastes. The popular pasta station (create your own from fresh ingredients) is available at lunch, with breakfast offered daily. in the lounge, light fare and appetizers. open daily. 11 Monroe ave nw, 242-6000, ext 6646. www.mar riott.com h, b, l, D, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds $
CORy DEMInT opened The Electric Eel in the former Rib Crib building at 1133 Wealthy St. SE serving Asian-inspired noodle dishes with local ingredients. As the weather warms up, ice creams, gelatos and frushi will be available at the takeout window. (electriccheetah.com and Electric Eel on Facebook) The new Little Mexico Café, 401 Stocking Ave. NW arose from its ashes in mid-February following the September 2008 fire that shut it down. (littlemexicocafe.com) Café Stella, hidden away in the Riverview Center at 678 Front Ave. NW, Suite 115, is where local celebrity chef Tommy Fitzgerald offers affordable breakfast fare, soups, salads and sandwiches weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (tommyfitzgeraldgroup.com) For an authentic taste of Cuba, check out Cuba’s Kitchen at 530 S. Division Ave. Chef/owner Ida Duque offers traditional Cuban dishes such as ropa vieja, a shredded beef specialty, along with daily specials.
Fblue Water grIll — 2009 gRM Dining award of excellence winner. Tableside views of versluis lake from this frank lloyd wright-inspired eatery. enjoy grilled appetizers and live music on the outdoor patio with fireplace and full-service bar. wood-burning rotisserie and wood-fired pizza oven allow for inspired dishes from fresh seafood to beef. nice wine selection and The bob’s microbrews. 5180 northland Dr ne, 363-5900. www.thebluewatergrill.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ boatWerks WaterFront restaurant — vintage motorboat ambiance overlooking lake Macatawa with a spacious outdoor patio and two menus: casual dining in the main dining room, bar and patio, and another room for fine dining. upscale comfort food at its best. 216 van Raalte ave, holland, (616) 396-0600. www.boatwerks restaurant.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds, DC $-$$ bobarIno’s — all-american grill on the second floor of The bob, offering a wide variety of menu items from wood-fired pizza, burgers and sandwiches to pasta and more up-scale entrées, with The bob’s microbrews on tap in the full-service bar. live entertainment in Cisco’s island lounge. Closed sun. 20 Monroe ave nw, 356-2000. www. thebob.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $ boston’s — “The gourmet pizza” restaurant and sports bar offers 26 specialty pizzas, pasta dishes, barbecued ribs and more in a contemporary setting. outside deck has Tvs and live music. separate sports bar features Tvs, pool tables, dartboards and video sports games. 2024 Celebration ave ne, 363-4948. www.bostons gourmet.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$$ bostWIck lake Inn — Roomy, cottage-style eatery offers regionally influenced cuisine in casual surroundings. among the favorites are fresh seafood, pasta, steaks and ribs. open Tue-sat, also Mon between Memorial Day and labor Day. 8521 belding Rd ne, Cannon Township, 8747290. www.bostwicklakeinn.com. h, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds, Rsvp $ boulder creek restaurant — The restaurant at boulder Creek golf Club serves up an affordable selection of appetizers, sandwiches and salads as well as fowl, seafood and beef for dinner. enjoy golf-course views from inside or on the deck. 5750 brewer ave ne, belmont, (616) 363-1330, ext 2. www.bouldercreekgolfclub.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$
benthaM’s rIVerFront restaurant — american selections served in casually elegant surroundings that feature rich fabrics, warm woods and tiered river-view seating. open daily from breakfast through dinner in the west Tower of the amway grand plaza, 774-2000. www. amwaygrand.com. h, b, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds $
brandyWIne — pleasant café atmosphere serving exceptional breakfasts, innovative lunches with many vegetarian choices and salads, and dinner selections ranging from Mexican to beef wellington and pastas. 1345 lake Dr se, 7748641; 2844 east beltline ave ne, 363-1723. h, b, l, D, 3, v, MC ¢-$
bIte — Deli side of ottawa Tavern features eight soups daily, big wraps, fresh salads and buildyour-own burgers. weekday happy hour drink
bud & stanley’s — Tiffany-style lamps and cherry-wood pillars mingle with moose and elk head trophies. Mirrored bar and Tv sets galore.
inexpensive Mexican and italian dishes, burgers, lots of starters, salads and sandwiches. Main entrées range from homemade pasties to the one-pound Texas cut sirloin. Takeout available. open daily. 1701 4 Mile Rd ne, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae ¢-$ bull’s head taVern — a dozen appetizers from brie to crab cakes, pot stickers and bruschetta. lunch menu showcases salads, soups, build-your-own burgers and sandwiches. Dinners include warm bread and chef-selected sides. banquette and table seating downstairs, comfy booths and tables in the more intimate upstairs. 188 Monroe ave nw, 454-3580. www. thebullsheadtavern.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $ cascade roadhouse — Relaxed, casual atmosphere with an expansive menu from fish and chips and gourmet burgers to delightful finedining appetizers and entrées from a skilled kitchen. good bar, wine list. Closed sun. 6817 Cascade Rd se (at old 28th st), 949-1540. h, l, D, C, v, ae $-$$ cascade’s sports grIll — not your average sports bar from a food perspective: calamari, crab cakes, pot stickers, stuffed ’shrooms, great sandwiches, chicken, steak and more. sizable bar with 10 brew taps and an extensive martini menu. pool tables, dartboards, Tvs and other amusements. live DJ sat night. Cascade Centre, 6240 28th st se, 974-3338. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $ charlIe’s bar & grIlle — well-rounded menu
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City Guide features dinners ranging from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also Mexican fare, chicken, shrimp and smelt baskets, many sandwiches, soups, salads, appetizers and daily specials, all in pleasant surroundings with full-service bar. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ CHEERS — Popular neighborhood spot with something for everyone: munchies, salads, southof-the-border favo rites, fish, steaks, burgers, breakfast fare, omelets and more, served daily in an inviting log-cabin environment. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢ CHEQUERS — Creative cuisine with a British flair ranges from beef tips Sherwood to Welsh rarebit, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and imported beer served in an English pub atmosphere. Open daily in summer. 220 Culver St, Saugatuck, (269) 8571868. www.chequersofsaugatuck.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE $
room and retro diner areas offer nice selection of appetizers, house-made soups, salads and grilled sandwiches. Extensive “Fresh-Mex” dinner selections, along with seafood, chicken, steak, ribs and pasta dishes. Live music and superb martinis in the Theatre Bar. Open daily (until 1 pm for brunch on Sun). 24 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 844-5055. www.harborrestaurants. com/deelite/. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ DERBY STATION — English pub with excellent Indian food (with a British influence) delivering sophisticated layers of flavors. Full bar features a
mighty array of specialty beers. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. www.derbystation.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $ DUGAN’S PUB & GRILLE — The Elks at the Highlands now has a separately operated dining venue under the experienced guidance of Executive Chef Joseph George, who makes this opento-the-public eatery worth a visit with a totally revamped menu that will pleasantly surprise. Adjacent Glendevon offers full-service banquet facilities. 2715 Leonard St NW, 453-2453. www. dugansgr.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
CHERIE INN — Warm-toned café is the relaxed setting for upscale breakfasts and innovative specials, served until 3 pm. Closed Mon. 969 Cherry St SE, 458-0588. B, L, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ CHILI’S — Upbeat atmosphere with varied American menu featuring signature baby back ribs, fresh fajitas, the “awesome blossom” and big-mouth burgers. The lounge provides great margaritas and a place to watch a game. Nightly food and drink specials. Three locations: 770 54th St SW, 261-9733; 4580 28th St SE, 949-5892; 2135 East Beltline NE, 361-1972. www.chilis.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $
WWW.TOGC.NET
CITYVU BISTRO — Casual and hip top-floor restaurant in Holland’s eco-friendly City Flats Hotel specializes in creative flatbreads and smallplates with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Smoke-free, with outdoor veranda access. 61 E 7th St, Holland, (616) 796-2114. cityflatshotel. com/eatdrink.html. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ COREZ NEIGHBORHOOD EATERY & BAR — Opens at 5 pm Mon-Sat, offering an ever-changing eclectic menu. Practically every item includes a creative take on ingredients. Extensive wine list, top-shelf spirits, crafted beers and specialty cocktails, with small and “not so small” dishes. 919 Cherry St SE, 855-2310. www.corezwinebar. com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ CORNUCOPIA — A little of everything: bakery, sandwich spot, pizzeria, take-home specialties, lunch buckets, fresh-ground coffees and more; one-of-a-kind wine selection. Open daily. In the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s west tower on Pearl St, 776-6428. www.amwaygrand.com. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE ¢-$ COUSIN’S TASTY CHICKEN — A 25-year local alternative to the chains with some of the tastiest fried chicken and side dishes around. Also serving seafood and other fried fare. Closed Sun. In the strip-mall at 1209 Leonard St NE, 456-5244. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ CULVER’S — Frozen custard made fresh daily and signature ButterBurgers are the stars here. Selection of specialty burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads, along with daily features and dinner plates of fried chicken, cod or shrimp. Kids menu. Open daily. 6300 28th St SE, 464-1190; 245 54th St SW, 530-8680; 7393 Cottonwood Dr, Jenison, 457-3209; 2510 East Beltline SE, 940-1600. www. culvers.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ DEE-LITE BAR & GRILL — Contemporary dining
Dining Special Occasions Cocktails
“
The dining room is elegant, yet cozy, comfortable enough for an afternoon burger yet classy enough to celebrate an anniversary.
”
4100 Thousand Oaks Dr.
One mile East off E. Beltline on 5-mile road
Grand Rapids, MI
(616) 447-7750 April 2010 Grand Rapids 53
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City Guide ELECTRIC CHEETAH — Eclectic menu changes weekly with an emphasis on locally grown fare put together flavorfully at affordable prices. Sandwiches, soups, salads, entrees, house-made desserts and unique Sunday brunch in modern, urbane surroundings. Liquor license pending. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. www.electriccheet ah.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ EVERYDAY PEOPLE CAFE — Excellent service and a changing menu of American bistro fare from appetizers through dessert. Impressive wine list with appropriate food pairings served in a pleasing, comfortable atmosphere. Closed Wed; no longer serving breakfast or lunch. 11 Center St, Douglas, (269) 857-4240. www.everydaypeople cafe.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ THE FALCON’S NEST — Grand Haven Golf Club restaurant features a creative lunch menu with a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, barbecue ribs, appetizers, chili and salads. Open 11 am-7 pm. 17000 Lincoln Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 8424040. www.grandhavengolfclub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FALL CREEK — Appetizers, gourmet pizzas, spectacular salads, specialty pastas, stellar sandwiches, house-made desserts, and entrées such as maple bourbon chicken, duck, steaks, seafood, pork chops, and more. Closed Sun-Mon. 201 Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-0100. www. fallcreekdining.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ FAMOUS DAVE’S — Legendary pit barbecue: ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage, ham and more, all hickory smoked onsite daily. St. Louis-style spareribs stand up to award-winning claims, but don’t miss the Texas beef brisket. 4505 Canal SW, Grandville, 301-7711; 1501 East Beltline Ave NE near Knapp’s Corner, 301-8300. www. famousdaves.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ FLAT RIVER GRILL — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building along the river in downtown Lowell. Al fresco dining on patio. Menu ranges from American comfort food to unique specials. Wood-fired pizzas, great desserts. Full bar with extensive list of wine by the glass and The BOB’s House of Brews beers on tap. Superb brunch. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. www.thegilmorecoll ection.com/flatrivergrill.html. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ FLEETWOOD DINER — A retro feast for the eyes. Extensive diner-style American menu with Greek influences, including saganaki (flaming cheese). Famous for signature “Hippie Hash.” Open 6:30 am for breakfast (8 am-4 pm Sun), serving dinner until 8 pm Mon-Thu, 9 pm Fri-Sat. Smoke-free, but smokers can be accommodated on the outdoor patio. 2222 44th St SE, 281-2300. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ FOREST HILLS INN — A neighborhood favorite with casual dining featuring a broad menu, excellent pizza. Closed Sun. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 949-4771. H, B, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE $ GAIA CAFÉ — Excellent and innovative, totally vegetarian fare served in a cozy atmosphere. Closed Mon. 209 Diamond Ave SE, 454-6233. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢ GARDEN ROOM CAFÉ — Cheery spot in Grand Central Plaza offers great breakfasts, super sandwiches, and home-made meals like Mojo-glazed pork chops, pot roast and pan-fried white fish. Open daily. 2055 28th St SE, 452-8544. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$
THE GATHERING PLACE — Cozy setting and country décor complement an imaginative menu. Terrific homemade soups, dessert selections. Open daily for breakfast and lunch. 6886 Cascade Rd SE, 949-3188. H, B, L, V, MC, AE, DS $ GRAND WOODS LOUNGE — Year-round al-fresco dining in a courtyard complete with fireplace. Eclectic menu selections mixed with upscale takes on comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables and spacious bar. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. www.grandwoodslounge.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ FGREAT LAKES SHIPPING CO. — 2009 GRM Dining Award of Excellence winner. Consistent kitchen does everything well. Beef done the way you ask, fine seafood and fowl. Spirited service in comfortable dockside motif. Patio open in summer. 2455 Burton St SE, 949-9440. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ GREEN WELL GASTRO PUB — Top-notch daily menu features comfort fare with a tasty flare, emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients. Full bar features more than 20 rotating draught beers, many from local and regional microbreweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. www.thegreenwell.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ GRILLE 29 — In the Holiday Inn Select on Lake Eastbrook, this restaurant offers a varied menu, from breakfast (6 am) through salads, soup, specialty paninis, wraps, pasta, pizza and entrées of steak, seafood, ribs, chicken and more. Adjacent full-service bar. Open daily. 3063 Lake Eastbrook SE, 285-7600. www.holidayinn.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC $ GRILL ONE ELEVEN — Rockford’s upscale eatery includes impressive granite-topped full-service bar and lounge on the lower level. American-witha-twist menu offers such entrées as seafoodstuffed grouper and prosciutto-wrapped filet. Brunch buffet 10 am-2 pm Sun; otherwise opens at 11 am. 111 Courtland Dr, 863-3111. www.gril loneeleven.com. H, B (Sun), L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ THE GRILLE AT WATERMARK — Relaxing atmosphere overlooking golf course. Innovative menu. Open for lunch and dinner Mon through Sat, and Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Banquet facilities for large gatherings. Reservations accepted. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. www.watermarkcc. com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE $-$$ HOLLY’S BACK DOOR BAR & GRILL — Fullservice menu and good selection of munchies at the bar in the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Opens 5 pm; closed Sun & Mon. 255 28th St SW, 2411417. www.hojogr.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ HONEY CREEK INN — Daily specials are the highlight, mixed with standard fare that’s given rave reviews by patrons. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. www. honeycreekinn.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC ¢-$ HUDSONVILLE GRILLE — The former Village Seafood serving steaks, chops, chicken, soups, salads, sandwiches, Mexican favorites and breakfast, yet still offers fish specialties like handdipped, beer-battered cod, garlic tilapia, buttercrumb scrod or Sicilian cod. Full bar service. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Suite F, Hudsonville, 662-9670. www.hudsonvillegrille.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, DS ¢-$
JD REARDON’S — Restaurant and lounge in The Boardwalk building offers American, Southwest, Thai and more, with a nice selection of nibbles, soups, sandwiches, dinner-size salads, steaks and other appealing entrées. Banquet facilities; outdoor seating with fountain views. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. www.jdreardons.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $-$$ KIRBY GRILL — The casual side of the Kirby House offers more than an average grill, such as baked Cajun catfish and homemade pasta primavera, along with fries and hamburgers. Familyfriendly dining upstairs. 2 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-3299. www.thegilmorecollec tion.com/kirbygrillroom.html. L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ KOPPER TOP — Real raw copper tops the bar and tables lend a Louisiana pub feeling to this staple with a long-standing tradition of seasonal decorations. Entrées with homemade taste and surprising selections from an eager kitchen. No lunch Sat, closed Sun. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 459-2001. L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE ¢ THE LANDING — Nautical décor, overlooks Grand River. Menu features seafood and American cuisine. Lounge with dancing. 270 Ann St NW (Radisson Riverfront Hotel at US 131), 363-7748. www.radisson.com/hotels/migrapno/dinings. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DC, DS $ LANNINGS’ RESTAURANT — The longstanding Westside eatery is now in the former Scalawags location in the Cascade Centre, still serving up their favorite family recipes and perfect fried chicken dinners. Reasonably priced menu includes sandwiches, fried shrimp, perch, flounder and beer-battered cod, with sides like housemade chips, hush puppies and beer-battered fries. All-you-can-eat salad bar ($5.99 standalone or $1.99 with dinner); take-out, catering and banquet facility. Pleasant window-fronted dining space is bright and fresh with knotty pine-logged walls. Open 11 am-7 pm Mon-Thu, 11 am-8 pm Fri. 6246 28th St SE, 575-7000. www.lanningscater ing.com. H, L, D, V, MC ¢ LITTLE AFRICA CUISINE — This humble storefront café with dining area offers vegetarian dishes only. Hearty vegetable stews, sauces and fixings are served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other Ethiopian specialties. Open daily. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. H, L, D ¢ MAIN STREET PUB — Casual, fun restaurant and sports bar offers large-screen TVs, with dining areas separated from the smoking-allowed bar. Variety of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, desserts and nice entrée selections, including steaks, chicken, pasta and grilled meatloaf. Open 11 am daily, with breakfast 8 am Sun. 11240 University Parkway, Allendale, 8951234. www.mainstpub.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ MALARKY’S — In the former Uno Chicago Grill locations, still featuring Chicago-style deep-dish and regular pizza, steaks, chicken, seafood, pastas, burgers, sandwiches, Mexican selections, salads, appetizers, desserts and more, with plenty of seating and full-service bar. 1515 Eastport Dr, Gaines Township, 871-6660; 3210 Deposit Dr NE, 808-2956. www.malarkyswm.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ MARIE CATRIB’S — Eclectic eatery in bright surroundings in East Hills Center. Everything made from scratch. Marie offers “care-free food”
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City Guide that includes some Middle-Eastern-leaning fare. On-site bakery; seasonal specialties. Breakfast 7 am Mon-Fri, 8 am Sat, with lunch/dinner starting at 11 am weekdays, noon on Sat. 1001 Lake Dr SE, 454-4020. www.mariecatribs.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS, DC ¢-$ MARINADES PIZZA BISTRO — Specialty woodfired pizzas, ethnic salads, sandwiches, appetizers, dips, soups, desserts and coffee. Three locations, antique/garden atmosphere at the bistro near GVSU. Open daily. 2844 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-0200; 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 8633300; 450 Baldwin, Jenison, 457-7400. www. marinadespizzabistro.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE, DS ¢ MAX & ERMA’S — All-American favorites are on the menu of this upbeat eatery, ranging from Laredo steak, fresh Atlantic salmon and specialty burgers to grilled chicken and Philly steak sandwiches. All-you-can-eat sundae bar. 3940 Rivertown Parkway, 406-1600. www.maxander mas.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$
fast, lunch, dinner and desserts, affordably priced in large, clean surroundings. Walk through the line to place your order. Great olive burgers and milkshakes. 2101 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-6291; 5181 Northland Dr NE, 363-3888; 2300 28th St SW, 538-4439; 1750 44th St SE, 455-8604; 950 44th St SW, 538-0363; 5835 Balsam Ave, Hudsonville, 662-5088. www.mrburger.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC ¢ NOEL — It’s Christmas year-round at this restaurant located in the former church and parsonage in Jamestown. Family-style dinners. Lighter fare
on lunch menu. Gift shop on the lower level. Hours vary by season. 2371 Riley St, Jamestown, 8966427 www.noelrestaurant.com. H, L, D, 3, V, MC, RSVP ¢-$$ NOODLES AND CO. — American, Italian and Asian spins on pasta, along with salads, soups, and other nibbles. Add shrimp, beef or chicken to punch up the pasta dishes that are otherwise basically vegetarian-friendly offerings. Open daily. 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 361-2600; 5070 28th St SE, 954-5800. www.noodles.com. H, L, D, V, MC, AE ¢
pile
MEADOWS RESTAURANT — GVSU’s professional and student-staffed restaurant features a patio and dining room overlooking golf course. Full-service menu and bar offers everything from burgers to NY strip steak. Seasonal hours; closed Sun. 1 W Campus Dr, Allendale, 895-1000. www. gvsu.edu/meadows/. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DS, RSVP $-$$ THE MELTING POT — Fondue dining in upscalecasual surroundings. Four-course menu offers four fondue cooking styles and a variety of entrées from filet mignon, lobster and duck to blackened chicken, shrimp and seafood. Dessert fondues too. Nice wine list. 2090 Celebration Dr NE, 365-0055. www.meltingpot.com. H, D, C, V, MC, AE $-$$ MIA & GRACE — In downtown Muskegon, offers a farm-to-table concept that focuses on breakfast and lunch, with locally grown, top-quality products creatively composed and served in an upscale and artsy space. Watch for dinner offerings completely made from Michigan products during growing season. 1133 Third St, Muskegon, (231) 725-9500. www.miaandgrace.com. H, B, L, V, MC, AE $
smile
MIDDLE VILLA INN — Weekly prime rib specials, salad bar, comfortable, casual, newly renovated atmosphere, occasional live bands; in Grand Rapids call 891-1287 for restaurant information. Open daily. 4611 N Middleville Rd, Middleville, (269) 795-3640. www.middle-villa-inn.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, DS $ MILL CREEK TAVERN — Comstock Park’s casual, cozy eatery with dark wood, high ceilings and black-and-white photo art offers a nice menu with appetizers, from-scratch daily soups, sandwiches, wraps, burgers and wet burritos, as well as full dinner options. Full bar with separate, recently expanded dining room. 3874 West River Dr, 784-3806. H, L, D, C, V, MC, DS ¢-$ MOE’S CONEY & GRILL — In the former Wyoming Grill location, featuring Coney Island-style hotdogs and an extensive menu that includes giant Philly-style cheese-steak sandwiches, rib-tips, a variety of baskets, burgers, chicken wraps and wings, and full-out entrees of chicken, pork chops and steak, as well as a wide-ranging breakfast menu. Open daily (closes 2 pm Sun). 3603 S Division Ave, 514-1650. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢-$ MR. BURGER — Longtime favorite serving break-
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City Guide O’CHARLEY’S — Big menu with everything from soups, salads and famous burgers to filet mignon; weekend evenings feature prime rib. Open daily, with Sun brunch 10:30 am-3 pm. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. www.ocharleys.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$
Everyone’s Dancing. You’re Invited!
OLD CHICAGO — Specializes in pizza and pasta, but also offers a variety of signature starters, soups and salads, stromboli, calzones, specialty sandwiches and burgers, and “classic” meals such as shrimp, steak, chicken and fish, as well as decadent desserts. Full-service bar stocks 110 brews. A great spot to catch your favorite sporting events on many screens. 3333 28th St SE, 940-1111. www.oldchicago.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS, DC $-$$ OLD COUNTRY BUFFET — Popular family spot features daily themes: Tue is Italian; Wed Asian; Fri seafood; Sat ribs; Sun turkey and trimmings. Patrons find “just like home” meals including carved meats, salad, soups, fresh baked goods. Breakfast begins 8:30 am Fri-Sun. 1038 28th St SW, Wyoming, 530-1983. www.oldcountrybuffet. com. H, B (Fri-Sun), L, D, 3, V, MC, DS $ OLIVES — In the heart of East Grand Rapids’ Gaslight Village with a seasonally inspired menu. Full-bar service and comfortable surroundings set the scene for fusion American cuisine that emphasizes locally grown produce and hormonefree, organic meats, creative fare and classic comfort foods. Recent expansion provides additional second-floor seating and al fresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. www. eatatolives.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ OMELETTE SHOPPE & BAKERY — A plethora of omelets, along with baked-fresh daily pecan rolls, cinnamon pastries and more. Now with a second location at 545 Michigan St NE, 726-5800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 726-7300. www.bretonvillage.net/ omletteshoppe.html. H, B, L, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$
Call now!
What you do on the dance floor is Our Business!
3089 29th St. SE Grand Rapids, Michigan
940-9894 4485 Plainfield NE Grand Rapids, Michigan
363-7632 www.arthurmurraygr.com
ONE TRICK PONY — Cottage Bar’s upscale counterpart sports an innovative American menu with samplings of vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines, plus creative lunch and dinner chef specials. Congenially casual surroundings inside or dine alfresco on their street-front patio. Offers live entertainment on occasion. Closed Sun. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. www.onetrick.biz. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE ¢-$ OTTAWA TAVERN — Full-service, full-menu sister restaurant shares space with downtown’s Bite. Sports venue with weekday Happy Hour bar specials from 4-7 pm. Closed Sun. 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 451-8000. www.thegilmorecollection. com/ottawatavern.html. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$$ PAL’S DINER — A real diner with homemade food. Breakfast, lunch and dinner all day, served in fun surroundings accented with lots of pink. Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, 942-7257. www. palsdiner.com. H, B, L, D, V, MC, DS ¢ PEARL STREET GRILL — Bright, airy restaurant in the downtown Holiday Inn. Opens early for breakfast, sandwiches and salads for lunch, steaks, pasta, chicken and fish for dinner. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-7611. www.dayshotel grandrapids.com. H, B, L, D, C, V, MC, AE $ PIER HEAD GRILL AND TAVERN — Familyfriendly, nautical atmosphere with a nice selection of steaks, seafood, fish, chicken, and tasty nibbles like jalapeno bottle caps and asiago-stuffed ravioli bites. Popular choices include burgers, prime
rib sandwich, pineapple barbecue chicken salad, sizzler steak and beer-battered cod. Bloody Mary Bar on Sun. Open daily in Cascade Centre, 6246 28th St SE, 974-9010. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ PILAR’S CAFÉ — In Creston Heights with eye-popping diner appeal, serving traditional American breakfast all day, along with soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, vegetarian options and desserts, with a nice selection of fresh-made, authentic Mexican fare. Open daily. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 365-6669. H, B, L, D ¢ RAINBOW GRILL — Longtime favorite, offering breakfasts, homemade soup, chili, steak sandwiches, daily luncheon specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed Sun. 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. H, B, L, D, 3, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ REAL FOOD CAFÉ — Serving top-notch breakfast and lunch, with everything made fresh from scratch by chef owners in cheery locale in Alger Heights and second location on the northeast side. Closed Mon. 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 2414080; 5430 Northland Dr NE, 361-1808. H, B, L ¢ RED JET CAFÉ — Gilmore Collection restaurant in the former library in Creston Heights offers a coffee bar along with breakfast, omelets, crepes, soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, specialty pizzas and more in casual, upbeat surroundings at affordable prices. 1431 Plainfield Ave NE, 7195500. www.thegilmorecollection.com/redballjet cafe.html. H, B, L, D (Tue-Sat), V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ RED GERANIUM CAFE — Popular breakfast/ lunch spot is known for its specialty omelets, homemade soups, breads and desserts. Two locations, both a stone’s throw from M-6: 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave. 532-8888. H, B, L, D ¢ RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS — Fun eatery with 22 burger options on the menu, along with interesting entrées, towering onion rings, mounds of steak fries and sinful desserts, all in mass quantities. Open daily. 3722 Potomac Circle SW (across from RiverTown Crossings), 257-3962; Woodland Mall, 957-1430. www.redrobin.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS ¢-$ RITZ KONEY BAR & GRILLE — Hot dogs, gourmet sandwiches, burgers, wraps and salads plus chicken fingers, nachos, wings and fries. Full bar with limited wine list. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 451-3701. ritzkoneybarandgrille.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC ¢-$ ROCKWELL’S KITCHEN & TAP — The more casual kid sister adjacent to Republic in the heart of downtown. Classic American pub features comfort foods with a twist in casual surroundings with upper-floor outdoor balcony seating. 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. www.rockwellsgrandrap ids.com. H, L, D, C, V, MC, AE, DS $-$$ ROSEBUD — Sandwiches and pizza for lunch, a variety of steaks, ribs, pasta and more pizza for dinner. Live music Thu-Sat. Open daily. 100 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, (616) 846-7788. www.rosebudgrill.com. H, L, D, C, 3, V, MC, AE, DC, DS ¢-$ FROSE’S — 2009 GRM Dining Award of Excellence winner. Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake features a variety of sandwiches, salads, pastas, pizzas, entrées and desserts; now with expanded, three-season porch seating. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. Also, “great food for the taking”at Rose’s Express, 2224 Wealthy St SE, 458-4646.
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City guide www.thegilmorecollection.com/rosesrestaurant. html. h, b (weekends), l, D, C, 3, v, MC, ae, Ds$
4875 28th st se, 956-5398. www.smokeybones. com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$
rosIe’s dIner — The original 1946 paramount diner made famous by paper towel commercials continues the tradition of classic homemade diner fare. open daily. half mile east of us 131. 4500 14 Mile Rd, Rockford, 866-3663. www.ros iesdiner.com. h, b, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$
sundance grIll — breakfast-and-lunch spot also offers a dinner menu in the California/ southwestern tradition, with a selection of steaks, salmon, salads and pasta, along with a margarita bar. Two locations: 5755 28th st se (esplanade plaza), 956-5644; 40 pearl st nw (breakfast and lunch every day, dinner Tue-sat), 776-1616. www.sundancegrill.com. h, b, l, D, C, 3, v, MC, ae, Ds $
ruby tuesday — name it, they have it: appetizers, soups, salads, pasta, steaks, chicken, ribs, fajitas, burgers, desserts, kids menu, all served in a comfortable, upbeat setting. open daily. 3684 28th st se, 285-7917. www.rubytuesday.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds ¢-$
sWan Inn restaurant — home-cooked
meals such as pot roast or salisbury steak, with daily specials and an extensive menu that ranges from burgers and sandwiches to steaks, seafood, chicken and more. also known for its gargantuan breakfasts. Cygnet lounge offers cocktails and a lighter appetizer menu as well as full dinner menu. smoke-free dining room with smoking allowed in the lounge. 5182 alpine ave nw (on M-37), 7841245. www.swaninnmotel.com. h, b, l, C, D, v, MC, Ds ¢ taVern on kraFt — upscale, casual dining with bar/game room separated from non-smok-
russ’ restaurants — fast service, inexpensive food. Closed sun. 3966 plainfield ave ne, 381-7545; 2750 28th st se, 949-8631; 2340 28th st sw, 538-3410; 531 alpine ave nw, 784-2230; 6444 s Division ave, 281-2790; 4440 Chicago Dr, grandville, 531-1146. www.russrestaurants.com. b, l, D, 3 ¢ salt oF the earth — in fennville’s former Journeyman Café location with a from-scratch menu that emphasizes locally sourced products. Menu includes wood-fired pizzas and an impressive array of affordably priced entrees. Dinners only, full bar. Closed sun. 114 e. Main st, fennville, (269) 561-7258. www.saltoftheearthfennville. com. h, D, C, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds ¢-$$ saM’s JoInt — award-winning ribs and unique décor of antiques and memorabilia. extensive menu includes Mexican selections. 2412 briggs Rd, gun lake, (269) 795-3965; 7449 68th st, Dutton, 698-1833; 107 e Main st, Caledonia, 8911128; 19 n Main st, Rockford, 866-3324; 6618 old grand haven Rd, norton shores, (231) 7987155; 15520 48th ave, Coopersville, 837-8558; 1665 viewpond se, kentwood, 455-2111. banquet facilities at some locations. h, l, D, C, 3, v, MC $ sandI’s FaMIly restaurant — home-cooked meals, family-friendly dining in casual surroundings. Daily specials; all-you-can-eat ocean perch on fri. senior discount Mon-Tue. Closed sun. 6597 s Division ave, 281-3160. h, b, l, D, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$ sandMann’s — soul food sundays include beef pot roast, mackerel patties, chitterlings, blackeyed peas and more. “Tummy ticklers” include peach cobbler and sweet potato pie. limited outdoor eating. Carryout and catering. Closed Mon. 1200 wealthy st se, 459-0900. www.sand manns.com. h, l, D, 3 ¢-$ schnItZ’s ada grIll — Deli by day, casual fine dining by night, complete with full bar. nice selection of appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, pasta and more. Cozy atmosphere upstairs from ada village bike shop. 597 ada Dr, ada, 682-4660. www.schnitzdeli. com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$$ the score — Restaurant and sports bar with a wide-ranging menu that includes pizza, ribs, hand-cut steaks, seafood, chicken and comfort dishes like meatloaf in a lively atmosphere in the former northeast-side pietro’s location. 5301 northland Dr ne, 301-0600. www.thescore-res taurant.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$ sMokey bones — slow, hickory-smoked barbecue with full menu and bar serving award-winning barbecue baby back ribs, st. louis-style ribs, hand-pulled pork, smoked beef brisket, combo platters, sandwiches, salads, fish, chicken and steaks. Try the bag of hot donuts for dessert.
Norman Christopher Director, Sustainable Community Development Initiative
Shaping a
future.
• Founding partner of the Community Sustainability Partnership in Grand Rapids • Recipient of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Excellence in Green Building Curriculum Recognition Award • Home to the Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center (MAREC) • Recipient of the 2008 National Sustainability Innovator Award from the Sustainable Endowments Institute • Only Michigan school in the 2009 Kaplan Guide of “cutting-edge green” colleges and universities • Named one of Corp! Magazine’s 2010 Michigan’s Going Green honorees
Grand Valley is leading the way in sustainability education with our Sustainable Community Development Initiative. The program provides West Michigan with the knowledge and skills necessary to balance the triple bottom line of economic, social, and environmental sustainability. With 200 courses related to sustainability issues, an innovative minor in environmental studies, Michigan’s first Green Chemistry certificate program, and our liberal studies education focus, we’re shaping a more sustainable future for the entire region. gvsu.edu/sustainability | 616.331.7366
www.gvsu.edu
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City guide ing dining room. Menu includes everything from filet mignon and prime rib to sandwiches and appetizers. Martinis and well-rounded wine list. Deck parties, weekend entertainment and frequent diners program. 2929 kraft ave se, 3011008. www.tavernonkraft.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$$ tgI FrIday’s — american menu with ethnic accents; décor is a riot of sights. 50 Monroe ave nw (downtown), 742-8443; 3345 28th st se (woodland Mall), 957-3911; 3700 Rivertown parkway, 257-8801; 3179 alpine ave nw, 7844600. www.tgifridays.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds $ thornapple daIly grIll — a gilmore Collection restaurant with a diverse menu includes an extensive list of inventive appetizers, salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, poultry, chops and pasta along with specialty martinis, wine and micro-brewed beers. Closed sun. 445 ada Dr, ada, 676-1233. www.thegilmorecollec tion.com/thornappledailygrill.html. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, DC, Rsvp $-$$ tIMbers Inn — Menu ranges from appetizers, gourmet salads, sandwiches and charbroiled burgers to wild game offerings and lumberjack meat ’n’ potatoes fare. open daily. sun omelet bar til 2 pm. 6555 belding Rd ne, 874-5553. www. timbersinn.net. h, l, D, C, 3, v, MC, ae ¢-$ VIctory club — ada’s “sports dining destination” with spacious dining room and lounge areas,
fireplaces, Tvs and sports-centric décor. eclectic american menu offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers, pasta dishes, out-ofthe-norm pizzas, some Mexican fare and entrées that range from steaks and chops to seafood and comfort food, plus desserts and Michigan wines. 396 pettis ave se, 425-7050. www.victoryclub ada.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds $-$$ VIllage Inn pIZZa parlor — longtime local favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, soups, salads, Mexican and more, with karaoke nights Thu-sat. full bar with several beers on tap. open daily; weekday lunch buffet. 2215 44th st se, kentwood, 281-1444; 934 washington st, holland, (616) 392-1818; 2345 apple ave, Muskegon, (231) 777-2609. www.villageinnrestaurants.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae ¢-$ WalldorFF breWpub & bIstro — Delightful menu full of surprises and an onsite microbrewery. soups, salads, sandwiches, barbecue specialties, small plates, steaks, pork and lamb chops, duck, pastas and wood-fired pizzas. 105 e state st, hastings, (269) 945-4400. www.wall dorffbrewpub.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$ West coast grIlle — at the Doubletree hotel in holland, with daily breakfast buffet, and eclectic mix of hearty american fare at lunch and dinner, from quesadillas and burgers to prime rib, steaks, barbecue half-ribs, chicken and seafood selections, in bright, colorful surroundings. open daily. 650 e 24th st (just off us 31), holland, (616) 396-0709. www.holland.doubletree.com. h, b, l,
D, C, 3, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds
$
WIld dog grIlle — upscale casual fare in Douglas with interesting appetizers, salads, sandwiches, stone-baked pizzas and top-notch entrees that marry a complexity of flavors. Desserts made in-house. Closed Mon in winter. 24 Center st, Douglas, (269) 857-2519. thewilddoggrille.com. h, l (fri-sun), D, C, v, MC, ae, DC, Ds $-$$ WInchester — new american tavern in reclaimed century-old space with beautiful architectural accents. affordably priced, locally sourced menu aimed at reinventing bar food: unique salads, soups and signature sandwiches like the Cuban Reuben, chimichurri chicken sandwich and slow-cooked barbecue pork sandwich. other creative offerings: green chili-rubbed mahi-mahi fish tacos, beef cheek gnocchi, pork carnitas and comfort food specialties. adjacent shuffleboard court-patio. 648 wealthy st se, 451-4969. www.winchestergr.com. h, l, D, C, v, MC, ae, Ds ¢-$ WInter Inn — seafood, steaks and prime rib along with specialty dishes such as sautéed shrimp, seafood au gratin and pan-fried walleye in a historic inn. Convivial bar. banquet facilities. 100 n lafayette st, greenville, (616) 754-7108. www.thewinterinn.com. h, l, D, C, 3, v, MC, ae, DC $ WolFgang’s — great breakfast spot. Menu includes omelets, salads and sandwiches. private meeting rooms available. open 6:30 am-2:30 pm daily. 1530 wealthy st se, 454-5776. www.mat twolfgang.com. h, b, l, 3 ¢ Woody’s press boX — pulled pork with pizzazz in a casually classy restaurant complex that includes two bars, a patio and bowling. Menu offers sandwiches and shrimp as well as standard barbecue fare. open daily, breakfast and lunch only sun. 5656 Clyde park ave sw, 5302400. www.spectrumlanes.com. h, b, l, D, C, 3, v, MC $
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dining guide legend grand rapIds MagaZIne has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers.
h — handicapped accessible b — serves breakfast l — serves lunch d — serves dinner c — cocktails ✓ — checks accepted V — Visa Mc — Mastercard Ae — American express dc — diner’s club ds — discover card rsVp — reservations preferred ¢ — inexpensive (under $8)* $ — Moderate ($8-$15)* $$ — expensive (over $15)* *prices based on average check for one person. ✍ — reviewed in this issue ➧ — new listing ✎ — listing update ✯ — grM’s 2009 restaurant of the year F — grM’s 2009 Award of excellence — chef profile in this issue addItIons, correctIons and/or changes must
be submitted for the editors’ consideration by calling grand rapids Magazine, 459-4545, or write: the dining guide, grand rapids Magazine, 549 ottawa Ave. nw, grand rapids, Ml 49503.
58 Grand rapids April 2010
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City Guide: Grand Vine
New York’s Finger-lickin’ wineries
Photography courtesy istockphoto.com/Chiyacat
by A. Brian Cain
Once you catch a glimpse of any of New York’s Finger Lakes, it’s nearly impossible to look away. Lakes Seneca and Cayuga — about 30 miles long and a few miles across — look more like gigantic rivers. Waterfalls are everywhere, with the most spectacular toward the southern end of Lake Cayuga, in and around Ithaca and the Cornell University campus. Keuka Lake, which is shaped like a “Y,” is home to some of the region’s most famous wineries. Dr. Constantine Frank’s Vinifera Cellars, operated by a third generation, makes some of the finest and most age-worthy Chardonnays and Rieslings of the Finger Lakes. The sparkling wines are exceptional, as well. Just a few miles down the road, Bully Hill Winery, founded by the late Walter Taylor, specializes in hybrid wines of every style and color. Although many of the Bully Hill wines are
quite good, the highlight of the winery is the art museum of Taylor’s work and the restaurant situated on a deck overlooking the lake. On Seneca Lake’s northern end just beyond the town of Geneva, Belhurst Winery and Castle serves good food and offers luxury accommodations. The handmade Rieslings and Chardonnays, produced to reflect local terroir that honors European winemaking styles, are some of the best white wines of the region. The wines possess remarkable class. About a dozen miles farther down Seneca Lake, the sprawling Glenora Wine Cellars, part of a complex that includes an inn and Veraisons restaurant, produces some of the best red wines in the Finger Lakes area. The whites are good too, but meaty, full-textured reds with black fruit essence and rich tannin such as the Glenora Syrah are had to come by. The CaberApril 2010 Grand Rapids 59
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City Guide: Grand Vine
net Sauvignon also is remarkably fat and fleshy, with sweet oak, cherry and chocolate nuances. The Merlot epitomizes the best attributes of the Finger Lakes, with its long, chewy finish and mélange of red fruits and tea-like earthiness. Directly across the lake at Chateau Lafayette Reneau and Inn — in what owner Dick Reno refers to as New York’s “banana belt”— the red wines are also exceptional. Reno’s Rieslings have won double gold medals from Tasters Guild, but, in my opinion, his reds are the best reason to visit this winery. Reno boasts that his red wines are as good as or better than the finest French Bordeaux, and one evening he opened several bottles of both for us to prove his point. Just a few hundred yards beyond Chateau Lafayette Reneau is the Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards. Although the ambiance is touristy and embraces a party atmosphere, the winemaking team takes Riesling very seriously. We have been visiting the Finger Lakes every year since 1982, and the Hazlitt Rieslings always show a fruit purity and transparency that allows the special white peach and floral flavors of the region to captivate one’s interest while eluding one’s comprehension. It would take a month to visit all of the wineries of the Finger Lakes. Or, be in Watkins Glen on July 18 or 19 when the Finger Lakes Wine Festival is set up at Watkins Glen International Race Course. Hundreds of wineries offer a full tasting room experience with take-out wine sales. Live entertainment and local food vendors are located in a shaded picnic area. While in Watkins Glen, be sure to visit its limestone gorge and falling waters. Contributing editor A. Brian Cain is a certified wine educator and freelance wine writer.
Photography courtesy istockphoto.com/pawtraitd
Live the GrandExperience
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City Guide CALenDAr oF eVenTS
Film explores the ‘eating local’ movement
Fulton Street Farmers Market
Grand Rapids Magazine
is pleased to provide this extensive list of area events. commonly requested venue and ticket outlet information is at the end of this listing.
Special events Apr-May - MARCH FOR BABIES: The March of Dimes fundraiser features local walks: Apr 17 Holland; Apr 24 Grand Rapids (Caledonia); May 1 Kalamazoo and Muskegon. Registration and start times vary; go to www.marchforbabies.org or www.marchofdimes.com/Michigan. Apr 15-17 - FESTIVAL OF FAITH AND WRITING: Calvin College’s biennial gathering of readers and writers to discuss, celebrate and explore how faith is represented in literature and how it plays out in the world today. More info: 526-6770 or www.calvin.edu/festival. Apr 16-17 - CHILLY BLUES: Grand Haven’s annual Chili Cook-Off and Blues Festival includes entertainment Fri and Sat at the Kirby House, Theatre Bar, The Grand, The Dee-Lite and other downtown venues. Chili registration and preparation begins 10 am Sat at Snug Harbor; contest begins at noon. 1-6 pm live music, 3 pm judging. www. haborrestaurants.com.
photogrAphy by michAel buck
Apr 16-18 - COTTAGE & LAKEFRONT LIVING SHOW: For everyone who wants to buy, build or enjoy a cottage or lakefront home, featuring designers, furnishings, lakefront builders and realtors, boats and docks, vacation home services and financing. 3-9 pm Fri, 10 am-9 pm Sat, 11 am-5 pm Sun. DeVos Place. $9 adults, $4 ages 6-14 (at door). www.grhomeshow.com. Apr 17 - EARTH DAY CELEBRATION: Free admission to Kalamazoo Nature Center’s exhibits and grounds; learn about programs and summer camps. 9 am-5 pm. 700 N Westnedge, Kalamazoo, (269) 381-1574, www.naturecenter.org. Apr 17 - EARTH DAY FAIR: Conservation groups, businesses and community organizations highlight environmentally sustainable practices and products, plus music, food and games. Mulligan’s Hollow, Grand Haven. 1:30-4 pm. www.wetlandwatch.org.
Apr 17 - EVERYTHING SALE: Yard sale items, baked goods, crafts, and small business services and supplies. 9 am-3 pm. Home School Building, 5625 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming. $1 adults, 12 and under free. Apr 17 - PARTY FOR THE PLANET: Celebrate Earth Day at John Ball Zoo and learn ways to save the world’s resources. Plus music, talks, animal demonstrations, giveaways. 10 am-3 pm. 1300 W Fulton St, 336-4300, www.johnballzoosociety. org. Free with admission: $3.50 adults, $3 kids 3-13, kids 2 and under free. Apr 17 - WEST MICHIGAN SPA AND WELLNESS EXPO: Exhibitors (vitamins, anti-age products, home décor, kitchenware, specialty foods), classes, lectures, demos and gifts. 10 am-5 pm. Trillium Banquet Center, 17246 Van Wagoner, Spring Lake. $4. Apr 18 - EARTH WEEK FESTIVAL: Learn about Howard Christensen Nature Center programs and summer camps, enjoy exhibits in Interpretive Center, hike the trails. Pancake breakfast or lunch ($5/$3.50). 9 am-3 pm. 16160 Red Pine Dr, Kent City. www.kentconservation.org/hcnc. Apr 20 - STORY SPINNERS: Join in the retelling of folk tales and original stories. All ages. 7 pm. Terraces of Maple Creek, 2000 32nd St. www. storyspinners.net. Free. Apr 21-23 - USED BOOK SALE: Browse hundreds of books and puzzles. 9 am-4 pm Wed and Thu, 9 am-2 pm Fri. Women’s City Club, 254 E Fulton St. Apr 23 - SECOND BEST SALE: 2,000 gently used items such as clothing, household items, toys, furniture, computers, appliances. 9 am-4:30 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc.org. Free.
“Eating in Place,” written and produced in West Michigan, is a documentary exploring the past and future of the local food movement in the Grand Rapids area. Presented by the Grand Rapids Area Council for the Humanities in partnership with Calvin College, the hour-long film tells the stories of farmers, entrepreneurs and activists. The documentary will premiere at 7 p.m. April 23 at Calvin College’s Prince Center. A discussion with area experts will follow. Check www.eatinginplace.net or contact Kelly Gest at (616) 774-1776. half price Sat. 9 am-6 pm Fri, 9 am-noon Sat. Thornapple Covenant Church, 6595 Cascade Rd SE. Free. Apr 24 - CLASSIC TOY COLLECTIBLES SHOW: More than 150 dealers and toy collectors. 9 am-3 pm. Home School Building Auditorium, 5625 Burlingame Ave SW. $3 adults, 12 and under free. Apr 24 - MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER: American Cancer Society’s 5K walk supports the progress being made to fight the disease. 8 am registration, 9 am walk. Rosa Parks Circle. www.cancer.org/stridesonline. Apr 24 - QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY CELBRATION: Join Nelis’ Dutch Village as it celebrates the Dutch queen’s birthday and season opening of the theme park with games and activities. 10 am-6 pm. Nelis’ Dutch Village, Holland. Admission, including park attractions, rides, presentations and movies: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $6 children 4-15. (800) 2857177, www.dutchvillage.com. Apr 24-25 - GROOVEWALK: Walk or take the GrooveXpress to visit 11 bands in different locations in downtown Holland. Drink specials at each venue. 9 pm-1 am. www.groovewalk.com for locations. $8 in advance or $10 at door. Apr 24-25 - WEST MICHIGAN PET EXPO: More than 60 exhibitors, entertainment, seminars for pet owners. Plus adoption center from various local shelters. 10 am-7 pm Sat, 11 am-5 pm Sun. DeltaPlex Arena. $6 adults, $4 children 6-12, children 5 and under free. Apr 25 - ALLEGAN ANTIQUE MARKET: 400 exhibitors rain or shine the last Sun of each month thru Sep. 8 am-4 pm. Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Dr, Allegan. 735-3333.
Apr 23-24 - EARTH AND SKY DAYS: The Public Museum celebrates Earth Day and International Astronomy Day with demonstrations, activities, telescopic viewing posts and a live sky show in the planetarium. 10 am-3 pm. Free with admission (see Museums & Attractions).
Apr 25 - WALK FOR AUTISM AWARENESS: Autism Support of Kent County’s 2.5K walk includes activities for all ages, live music and free Community Resource Fair. Noon-4 pm, walk begins at 1 pm. Kuyper College, 3333 East Beltline Ave. 752-8577, www.autismsupportofkentcounty. org.
Apr 23-24 - MOPS CONSIGNMENT SALE: Mothers of Preschoolers Grand Rapids sale includes children’s clothing, toys, furniture, room décor items, and maternity clothes. Items are
Apr 26 - A PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE: Dinner auction to benefit the Hugh Michael Beahan Foundation, which supports St Andrew’s School. 6 pm. Catholic Central HS Gym, 319 Sheldon SE. April 2010 Grand rapids 61
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City Guide Tickets and info: 451-8463, ext 205. Apr 28 - DESSERTS UNCORKED: Savor local chefs’ creations using Girl Scout Cookies and sample wines. Supports Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore. 6-8 pm. Kent Country Club, 1600 College Ave NE. $40, $75 couple (www.grmists. org). Apr 28 - LOCAL FIRST CONFERENCE: Second annual conference on designing sustainable communities through business. 8 am-5 pm. Aquinas College. Tickets TBD (www.localfirst.com). Apr 29 - MEL TROTTER MINISTRIES BANQUET: Fundraiser supports the homeless and people in rehab programs and includes performance by Christian singer Josh Wilson. 6 pm punch bowl, 6:30 pm doors open. Frederik Meijer Gardens. For info and tickets: 454-8249, ext 223. Apr 29 - THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME: Benefit for Liz’s House and Bridge Street Place. Strolling cocktail party highlights fashions from Daniel’s and showcases furniture from Klingman’s Home Furnishings. 5:30-7:30 pm. Klingman’s, 1001 28th St SW, Wyoming. $50 (RSVP by Apr 23: 616-8550401). Apr 30-May 1 - FIESTA!: Latin American United for Progress annual celebration with a fiesta queen and king contest, lowrider car show, Latino entertainment, carnival, various exhibitors and lots of food. Civic Center, 150 W 8th St, Holland.
Music
Apr - AQUINAS COLLEGE CONCERTS: 7:30 pm Apr 8 Spring Jazz Night. 7:30 pm Apr 14 New Dimensions Percussion Plus Concert. 3 pm Apr 18 Spring Music Department Concert. All concerts free at Kretschmer Recital Hall, Aquinas PAC. More info: 632-2413. Apr - CALVIN COLLEGE CONCERTS: 8 pm Apr 17 Oratorio Society with Calvin Orchestra, Orchard Hill Reformed Church ($20 adults, $10 students). 3 pm Apr 18 Alumni Orchestra, Calvin CRC (free). 7:30 pm Apr 18 Capella, Basilica of St Adalbert (free). 8 pm Apr 24 Artist Series: Ivan Moshchuk, piano, Calvin Chapel ($20 adults, $10 children). 4 pm Apr 25 Gospel Choir, GR Christian High School, DeVos Center for Arts & Worship (free). 7:30 pm Apr 26 Campus Choir and Cornerstone University Choirs, Calvin Chapel (free). 7:30 pm Apr 29 Artist Series: Kevin Cole, piano, Calvin Chapel ($20 adults, $10 children). 8 pm Apr 30 Women’s Chorale Concert, Basilica of St Adalbert (free). www.calvin.edu/academic/music/calendar. Apr - CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY CONCERTS: 3 pm Apr 10 Symphonic Winds Spring Concert, St Cecilia. 7:30 pm Apr 10 Choral Concert, St Cecilia. 6 pm Apr 18 Chorale Concert, Ada Christian Reformed Church. 7:30 pm Apr 28 CCM Spring Concert, Corum Student Lounge. 7:30 pm Apr 29 Spring Chamber Concert, Corum Student Lounge. All events free. www.cornerstone.edu/ academics/fine_arts/events. Apr - FENIAN’S IRISH PUB: Traditional Irish music 7 pm every Wed. Also: 8 pm Apr 8 Lunasa ($35); 7 pm Apr 16 Sean Nos Irish Singing Session; 2 pm Apr 24 Fiddle Jam. 19683 Main St, Conklin, www. feniansirishpub.com. Apr - FRIDAY NIGHTS AT GRAM: Immerse yourself in the arts every Fri at Grand Rapids Art Museum. 5-6:45 pm live jazz and modern music (Apr 23 Bistro and Ballroom. Apr 30 Ritsu Katsumata, electric violinist); 7-7:45 pm Art Forum; 7:45-8:30 pm jazz encore. Dinner buffet
($12), small plate menu ($6) and cash bar until 8 pm in cafe. $5 nonmembers, members free. Apr - GRCC CONCERTS: 7:30 pm Apr 16 Musical Moods 62, St Cecilia ($12 adults, $8 students and seniors). 6 pm Apr 18 Grand River Winds, St Cecilia (free). 7:30 pm Apr 23 Student Composer’s Concert, GRCC Music Center Recital Hall, (free). www.grcc.edu/musiccalendar. Apr - GRFAS ACOUSTIC SATURDAY NIGHTS: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts singers and songwriters at 8 pm. Apr 17 L’Esprit Creole. Apr 24 Fundraiser with Conklin Ceili Band. Wealthy St Theater, 1130 Wealthy St SE. $12 adults, $10 students and seniors, $9 members, $3 children (at door). www.grfolkarts.org. Apr - THE INTERSECTION: Large nightclub offers local and national music. Apr 1 Frankie Ballard. Apr 5 Twiztid. Apr 6 Smile Empty Soul + Soil. Apr 7 Pretty Lights. Apr 8 Pnuma Trio. Apr 10 Mega 80s. Apr 11 The Fall of Troy. Apr 23 Mega 80s. Apr 28 The Nadas. See Web site for concert updates. Ticket prices vary (Beat Goes On, Purple East, Vertigo Music, Intersection box office or Ticketmaster). 133 Grandville Ave SW. www.sec tionlive.com. Apr - LEMONJELLO’S: Fair trade coffeehouse offers live music at 8 pm. Apr 7 Open Mic (free). Apr 9 Jake Ousley, Mark Wagner, Jeremy Hoekstra and Ken Stead ($3). Apr 17 Dan Steinhart fundraiser show (tickets TBD). Apr 23 Philip & Trixie, Stationary Travelers, and Call Me Anadarko ($3). See Web site for updates. 61 E 9th St, Holland. www.lemonjellos.com. Apr - MIGHTY WURLITZER CONCERTS: Organ concerts every weekend (7-9 pm Fri and 2-4 pm Sat) at the Public Museum. Apr 9-10 features guest musician Jonas Nordwall. Members: $8 adults, $4 children. Nonmembers: $10 adults, $5 children (456-3977, www.grmuseum.org or at front desk). Apr - MUSIC AT MID-DAY: Free concerts 12:1512:45 pm. Apr 6 Kim Hall, piano. Apr 13 Peter Stoltzfus Berton, organ. Apr 20 Mike Bennett, clarinet. Apr 27 David Schout, organ. Park Congregational Church, 10 E Park Place NE. www. parkchurchgr.org. Apr - ONE TRICK PONY CONCERTS: Restaurant offers free live music at 8 pm. Apr 3 Mary Rademacher. See Web site for updates. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St SE. www.onetrick.biz. Apr 1, 15 - WGVU JAZZ NIGHT AT Z’S: Local and regional jazz. 8 pm. Z’s Grille and Bar, 168 Louis Campau, www.wgvu.org. Apr 5, 19 - HAT TRICK SERIES: WYCE 88.1 presents concerts at 7 pm that raise money for a local nonprofit. Apr 5 Deadstring Brothers, blues, rock country and soul. Apr 19 Hoots & Hellmouth. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St. Free; donations accepted. www.wyce.org.
FARM MUSEUM: Bring your guitar, fiddle or other non-electric instrument. Singers and listeners welcome. 6-9 pm, doors open 4 pm. Free with admission. See Museums & Attractions. Apr 8 - BRAD MEHLDAU TRIO: St Cecilia Music Center presents this concert as part of its Jazz Series. 7:30 pm. Royce Auditorium. $30-$35, $10 students (459-2224, www.scmc-online.org). Apr 9 - BYRON STRIPLING QUARTET: Muskegon Community Concert Association presents trumpet virtuoso and his quartet with timeless jazz classics and fresh originals. 7:30 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. Tickets TBD (Frauenthal box office or Star Tickets). Apr 9 - MAJIC CONCERT SERIES: Musical Arts for Justice in the Community hosts Steve Talaga’s Premier Composition about Heartside. Also, artworks by Erick Pichardo. 7 pm. Bethlehem Church, 250 Commerce Ave SW. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit Grand Rapids Coalition to End Homelessness. www.grmajic.org. Apr 9, 23 - ALLEY DOOR CLUB: Jazz, blues and folk music in downtown Muskegon every 2nd and 4th Fri. Apr 9 Root Doctor, blues. Apr 23 The Left Paul Trio, blues. 7-10 pm (doors open 6 pm). Frauenthal Theatre, Muskegon. $6 at door or in advance (231-727-8001). Apr 11 - SACRED SOUNDS OF ST MARK’S: GVSU’s Varsity Men perform music from musical theater and opera to masterpieces from the Renaissance to the 20th century. 5 pm. St Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division Ave, www. stmarksgr.org. Free. Apr 15 - BARBRA & FRANK, THE CONCERT THAT NEVER WAS: A tribute to Streisand and Sinatra with Las Vegas Streisand impersonator Sharon Owens and Sinatra tribute artist Sebastian Anzaldo. 7:30 pm. Van Singel Fine Arts Center. $39.50 adults, $22.50 students (8786800, www.vsfac.com). Apr 16-17 - “HEAR THE NOW”: In celebration of Associate Conductor John Varineau’s 25th anniversary, GR Symphony performs Berlioz’s “Roman Carnival,” among others. 8 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (GR Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). www. grsymphony.org. Apr 16-17 - WATER MUSIC: EXPERIENCE THE LAKE EFFECT: West Michigan Symphony presents a tribute to water with Mendelssohn’s “Hebrides Overture” and Handel’s “Water Music.” 8 pm. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $16-$38, $14-$36 seniors (Frauenthal box office or Star Tickets). Apr 17 - AMY GRANT: Contemporary Christian singer with mainstream hits like “Baby Baby,” “That’s What Love Is For” and “I Will Remember You.” 7:30 pm. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. $42$48 (FAC box office or Ticketmaster).
Apr 6 - CELTIC WOMAN: The group’s Songs from the Heart tour includes Irish classics, contemporary covers and original compositions. 7:30 pm. Van Andel Arena. $42.50 and $69.50 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).
Apr 17 - GAITHER HOMECOMING TOUR: Contemporary gospel concert featuring legendary performers and rising stars. 6 pm. Van Andel Arena. $32-$42 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).
Apr 6 - KRONOS QUARTET: Hope College’s Great Performance Series presents this string quartet. 7:30 pm. Dimnent Memorial Chapel, Hope College. $17 adults, $12 seniors, $6 students and children 18 and under (box office or 616-3957890).
Apr 17 - JAZZ VESPERS: Live jazz from Ray Kamalay Trio. 6 pm. First United Methodist Church, 227 E Fulton St. www.grandrapidsfumc. org. Free.
Apr 6, 20 - JAM NIGHT AT COOPERSVILLE
Apr 17-May 8 - GILMORE KEYBOARD FESTIVAL: Two weeks of keyboard performances across West Michigan, along with lectures, master class-
62 Grand Rapids April 2010
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City Guide
Celebrating 10 Years of Excellence!
es and films. Artists include international stars, jazz greats, contemporary musicians and up-andcoming artists. See Web site for schedule and ticket info: www.gilmorekeyboardfestival.org. Apr 18 - EMBELLISH BARKER SERIES: Embellish Handbell Ensemble presents a concert. 4 pm. Central Reformed Church, 10 College Ave NE. http://embellish.ws. Apr 19 - VOCALART SINGERS: Adult volunteer chamber chorus presents English Delights featuring music from George Fredrick Handel and John Rutter. Guest ensemble Ars Voce and tenor soloist Mark Wells sing “From the Bavarian Highlands.” 4 pm. Location TBD. $10 adults, $8 students, $24 family (516-5935 or www.vocalart singers.org). Apr 22-24 - GILMORE YOUNG ARTIST: GR Symphony’s Rising Stars concerts showcase new talent in a more intimate setting; featuring 2009 pianist playing Brahms and Haydn. 7:30 pm Thu, 8 pm Fri and Sat. DeWitt Auditorium, Zeeland High School. $26 (GR Symphony box office or Ticketmaster). www.grsymphony.org. Apr 23 - BRAHMS AND HAYDN: GR Symphony performs a one-hour concert, including “Variations on a Theme of Haydn” and “Symphony No. 80.” Free coffee and pastries. 10 am. Royce Auditorium, St Cecilia. Ticket prices TBD. www. grsymphony.org. Apr 23 - CARRIE UNDERWOOD: Grammywinning country singer/songwriter performs in concert with special guests Craig Morgan and Sons of Sylvia. 7:30 pm. Van Andel Arena. $35$55 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).
The true nature of fine Italian cuisine in the heart of Grand Rapids. “Ethnic Dining Awards of Excellence 2007, 2008 & 2009 Grand Rapids Magazine “Dining Awards”
122 Monroe Center St., NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-235-9339
Apr 25 - METROPOLITAN CHOIR OF PRAISE: Spring Concert with guests Jubilee, a ladies quartet. 7:30 pm. Calvin Christian Reformed Church, 700 Ethel SE. Freewill offering. www.metropolitan choir.org.
WROUGHT IRON GARDEN AND HOME ART
Apr 30 - WYCLIFFE GORDON: Cool jazz and trombone. 7:30 pm. Van Singel Fine Arts Center. $16.59 adults, $11.50 students (878-6800, www. vsfac.com).
Arbors
un
Apr - ARTPRIZE VENUE/ARTIST REGISTRATION: Open art competition is matching artists and venues for the competition that takes place Sep 22-Oct 10. Thru Apr 15, venue registration; Apr 19-May 27 artist registration. More info: www. artprize.org. Thru Apr 23 - CALL TO KINETIC ARTISTS: Holland Area Arts Council is accepting works for its Kinetic Art Competition. The art should operate by hand, gravity, wind, water, sun, small motor or other creative power source. Exhibition runs Jun 3-Sep 3. Submission forms available at HAAC, 150 E 8th St, Holland, or www.hollandarts. org.
Apr - AQUINAS COLLEGE GALLERY: Apr 11-May
Bikes
ess
Obelisk Fence Trellis Wall Decos Window Boxes
2nd
Nature Garden Art
AND ACCENTS
Visit us at the Tulip Time Festival Art & Craft Show Holland MAY 1-2
Apr 16 - ART.DOWNTOWN: Division Avenue Arts Cooperative features live entertainment and artwork at participating Heartside galleries. 6 pm-1 am. Free. Apr 24 - SPRING ARTS AND CRAFT SALE: Rogue River Artists Association presents fine art, photography, wood carvings, jewelry and ceramics. 10 am-4 pm. Rockford United Methodist Church, 159 Maple St, Rockford. Free.
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Potted plants by Eastern Floral Flower arrangement Sterk.Brenda@gmail.com
2nd
Nature Garden Art
AND ACCENTS
www.2ndnaturegardenart.com | Alto, Michigan | 616-550-8652
46th Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show MSU, E. Lansing MAY 22-23
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City Guide: Making Tracks
Singing about balance Graham Parsons & The Go ’Rounds is a collection of friends with similar tastes making music for all the right reasons. By Juliet Bennett Rylah
T
he “super group” is a well-known music staple from The Traveling Wilburys to Monsters of Folk. And why not? When people excel at music on their own, they tend to excel at it together. With Graham Parsons & The Go ’Rounds, it was inevitable. Between sharing a home and working at the same venue — The Strutt in Kalamazoo — the members had more than enough time
Members of Kalamazoo’s super group include, from left, Adam Danis, Grant Littler, Tod Kloosterman, Andy Catlin, and songwriter Graham Parsons.
to familiarize themselves with each other’s musical styles. Songwriter Graham Parsons (also in The Squeaky Clean Cretins) fronts the band, while other members are borrowed from such bands as Toro & The National Guard and Max Dandy Slax. “It’s a great collection of friends with similar tastes,” Parsons said. “We’re all making music for the right reasons, and we’re all into developing a song as opposed to standing out.” Songs range from “really quiet folks songs” to “absolutely chaotic rock” and everything in between, with a feel that Parsons describes as “vaguely retro.” In the early stages of the band, Parsons’ songs, along with pieces by keyboardist Andy Catlin and guitarist Grant Littler, were polished up by the full band. Now, Parsons said, “We’re at the edge of a waterfall where we’re writing as a band.” The band also includes drummer Adam Danis and bassist Tod Kloosterman. Parsons said the band likes to write about balance.
Graham Parsons & The Go ’Rounds
“I know that’s pretty vague, but it’s something we really believe in,” he said. “It’s kind of a guide in life — not using a word like moderation, but balance. You can pull whatever you want out of that. Life, death, time … all those topics get touched upon, but really, we feel it comes down to balance.” Parsons got his start as a songwriter early on. He started singing at 14 and learned to play the guitar a year later so he could begin penning his own songs. Playing in bands and in smoky bar gigs near his home in the Keweenaw Peninsula, Parsons has spent considerable time on stage. His voice, dark in timber and expressive in nature, fits well with his dynamic songwriting and verbose lyricism. You can find Kalamazoo’s super group online at myspace.com/gpandthegorounds, or Parsons’ solo work at myspace.com/grahamaparsons and grahama parsons.com. GR
Photography by Jim Gebben
Category: Folk, soul, rock ‘n roll History: Formed in 2009; 3-Song EP “The Go ’Rounds Triple A Side,” 2010 Geography: Kalamazoo Parity: Wilco, Buffalo Springfield Curiosity: myspace.com/gpandthegorounds
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City Guide 9 Bachelor of Fine Arts Show. Reception 2-4 pm Apr 11. Aquinas Art & Music Center (enter off Fulton St), 632-2408, www.aquinas.edu/art/gall ery.html. Apr - CALVIN CENTER ART GALLERY: Thru Apr 24, The Unguarded Moment, photography by Steve McCurry; book signing 6:30-8 pm Apr 16. Apr 30-May 8 Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition; reception 6-8 pm Apr 30. Spoelhof Center, 3201 Burton St SE, 526-6271, www.calvin.edu/center artgallery. Apr - COOPERSVILLE FARM MUSEUM: Thru Apr 24, Simple Blessings (oil on canvas) by Linda Powers. 375 Main St, Coopersville, 997-8555, www.coopersvillefarmmuseum.org. Apr - DESIGN QUEST GALLERY: Thru May 2, Furniture Design Competition. 4181 28th St SE, 940-0131, www.d2d2d2.com. Apr - FIRE AND WATER GALLERY: Featured potter and watercolor artist Janet Krueger. Plus work from two dozen area artists, gifts, jewelry, sculpture and photography. 219 W Main St, Lowell, 890-1879, www.fire-and-water-art.com. Apr - FOREST HILLS FAC: Apr 16-May 14 Forest Hills Public Schools Student Art Exhibit. Artist reception 6 pm Apr 20. 600 Forest Hill Ave SE, 493-8965, www.fhfineartscenter.com. Apr - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Thru May 9, Spirit and Form: Michele Oka Doner and the Natural World. Apr 30-Sep 30 Dale Chiluly: A New Eden, includes glass chandeliers, towers up to 30 feet high, floating spheres, reeds rising from the earth, the sun, the moon, and a rowboat full of glass. Permanent exhibits include more than 100 world-class sculptures indoors and in the 30-acre park. See Museums & Attractions. Apr - GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Thru Apr 18, Calder Jewelry, 100 necklaces, rings, bracelets, and brooches created by Alexander Calder from the 1930s-1960s. Thru Sep 25, Selections from the Museum Photography Collection, photographs from Ansel Adams, Edward Steichen, Walker Evans, Yousef Karsh and Gordon Parks. Permanent collection spans Renaissance to Modern with particular strength in European and American 19th- and 20th-century painting and sculpture, plus more than 3,500 prints, drawings and photographs. 10 am-5 pm Tue, Wed, Thu and Sat; 10 am-9 pm Fri; noon-5 pm Sun; closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors/students with ID, $5 children 6-17, 5 and under free. 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, www.artmuseumgr.org.
Illustration courtesy istockphoto.com/Ian Andrew
Photography by Jim Gebben
Apr - GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS: Thru May 10, Robert Stone, photography. One Trick Pony, 136 E Fulton St SE. www.gvami.com. Apr - HOLLAND AREA ARTS COUNCIL: Thru April 26, Year of the Tiger. Thru Apr 24, Area High School Juried Exhibit. 150 E 8th St, Holland, (616) 396-3278, www.hollandarts.org. Apr - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Thru May 16, Bevrijding (Liberation): Images from the Dutch Resistance, linocut prints created after WWII detailing aspects of the resistance from the perspective of rural country dwellers. Apr 7-Aug 29 Smile, images representing Holland’s diverse cultural past, present and future. Dutch Galleries exhibit 17th- to 20thcentury Dutch paintings and cultural objects. See Museums & Attractions.
ing 65 Chinese woodblock prints. Thru May 23, Fear and Folly: The Visionary Prints of Francesco Goya and Federico Castellon. 10 am-5 pm TueSat, noon-5 pm Sun, closed Mon. $8 adults; $6 students, seniors; $4 members. 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, www.kiarts.org. Apr - KENDALL GALLERY: Jan Dean and Cathi Isza, MFA thesis exhibitions. Kendall College of Art and Design, 17 Fountain St NW, 451-2787, www.kcad.edu. Apr - LEEP ART GALLERY: Thru Apr 6, Mostly Michigan by Karen VanDam Michmerhuizen, featuring Michigan’s coastline. Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, 300 68th St SE, 2224530. Apr - LOWELL AREA ARTS COUNCIL: Thru Apr 10, 24th Annual West Michigan Regional Competition. More than 20 artists display fine arts and gifts, including pottery, paintings, beadwork, photography, textiles, sculptures and stained glass. 149 S Hudson St, Lowell, 897-8545, www. lowellartscouncil.org.
Apr - RIVERTOWN ARTISTS GUILD: Thru Apr 30, Mary E Carter at Walker Library, 4293 Remembrance Rd; Meredyth Parish at EGR Library, 746 Lakeside Dr; and Jan Upp at the GR Realtors’ Association, 660 Kenmoor Ave SE. Apr - SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Thru Apr 26, Artfully Adorned: The Japanese Kimono. 400 Culver St, Saugatuck. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Fri, (269) 857-2399, www.sc4a.org. Free. Apr - TERRYBERRY GALLERY: Apr 3-31, featured artist James Johnson. Artist reception 6:30-9 pm Apr 9. Lower floor, St Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave NE, www.scmsonline.org. Apr - UICA: Apr 2-Jul 31 dis.place.ment, international juried exhibition. Apr 2-Aug 6 Christopher Gauthier and Nicola Vruwink. Apr 2-May 28 Margarida Correia, Casey McGuire and Wendy Kawabata. Opening reception 6-9 pm Apr 2. Urban Institute for Contemporary Art, 41 Sheldon Blvd SE, 454-7000, www.uica.org.
Stage
Apr - MERCURYHEAD GALLERY: Thru April 30, Impressions of Spring: landscapes by Armand Merizon, Al Cianfarani and George Peebles. Also showing works by Gloria Allen, Bob Bauer and Eric Kuhl. 962 E Fulton St, 456-6022.
Apr - DR GRINS COMEDY CLUB: Stand-up comedians from all over the world perform Thu at 9 pm, Fri and Sat at 8 pm and 10:30 pm. The BOB, 20 Monroe Ave NW. $5 Thu, $10 Fri and Sat (3562000, www.thebob.com).
Apr - MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART: Thru May 2, Mirror, Mirror: Art Inspired by Fairy Tales; 1-3 pm every Thu, free open tours of this exhibit. Thru Apr 18, Inspired: The Corky Tuttle Glass Legacy. Thru Apr 10, Edward Curtis: Selections from the North American Indian. Thru Apr 11, 28th Annual Muskegon Area Student Art Exhibition. Hours: noon-4:30 pm Sun; closed Mon and Tue; 10 am-4:30 pm Wed, Fri and Sat; 10 am-8 pm Thu. $5 adults (Thu free); members, students, kids under 17 free. 296 W Webster Ave, Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, www.muskegonartmuseum.org.
Thru Apr 4 - “THE COLOR PURPLE”: Broadway Grand Rapids presents the musical based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker. 7:30 pm Mar 30-31, 2 pm and 7:30 pm Apr 1, 8 pm Apr 2, 2 pm and 8 pm Apr 3, 2 pm Apr 4. DeVos Performance Hall. $35-$65 (DeVos, Van Andel and Broadway Grand Rapids box offices or Ticketmaster).
Apr - OPEN CONCEPT GALLERY: Apr 12-16 SMart Multimedia Art Festival. 50 Louis St NW. www. openconceptgallery.org.
Thru Apr 10 - “BROADWAY OUR WAY”: Dinner theater with a journey through some of Broadway’s classics. 6:30 pm cocktails, 7 pm dinner. The BOB, 20 Monroe Ave NW. $35 (356-2000, www. thebob.com). Apr 2-11 - “RHINOCEROS”: Grand Valley Opera
00 GR’s inaugural Undy 50 ? Here’s your chance. Ever get the urge to run in your skivvies
ing out boxer shorts to participants in Organizers of the Undy 5000 will be hand un/walk. fun-r the 5K race, which also includes a 1-mile ness of colorectal cancer,” said Staaware raise to is event “The purpose of the cie Mishler of the Colon Cancer Alliance. be held April 24 and will start at East The inaugural West Michigan run/walk will Grand Rapids Middle School. will be our third year. Last year we “It really gets attention,” Mishler said. “This year we’re in 17.” This . cities had more than 4,000 participants in five on registration and donating. ation inform more for Visit www.undy5000gr.org
Apr - KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS: Thru Apr 18, Woodcuts in Modern China, 1937-2008: Toward a Universal Pictorial Language, includApril 2010 Grand Rapids 65
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City Guide Theatre presents Eugene Ionesco’s absurdist drama that explores the unprecedented scale of political brutality in our times. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Apr 11. Louis Armstrong Theatre, GVSU Allendale Campus. $14 adults, $12 faculty, alumni and staff, $6 students (331-2300). www.gvsu.edu/theatre.
ArtPrize 2010 is under way
Apr 3 - “COME SEE JESUS: A NIGHT OF THE ARTS”: Song, art, dance and dramatic presentations presented by Fresh Hope Ministries. 2 pm and 7 pm. Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. $10 matinee, $12 evening (www.comeseejesus.com).
Thousands of artists worldwide have been invited to participate in ArtPrize 2010 with $449,000 in prizes. Artist registration opens at noon April 19. To be considered, artists must register their work at artprize.org/artist-apply. Venue registration began in March and wraps up April 15. ArtPrize is an open competition with no formal jury, curator or judge. The public is asked to vote and decide the winners using mobile devices and the Web. See Art
Apr 8-11 - “ANY OTHER NAME”: Aquinas College Theatre presents George Brandt’s tale. 8 pm, 2 pm Sun. Aquinas PAC. $10 adults, $8 staff, $4 students (456-6656). Apr 10, 24 - RIVER CITY IMPROV: Calvin College alumni improv team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. 7:33 pm (doors open 6:30 pm). Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd SE. $8 (at door or Calvin’s box office). www. rivercityimprov.com. Apr 15-24 - “BACKBORN”: Calvin Theatre Company presents an existential comedy set after WWII that explores imprisonment and how relationships give hope. 8 pm. Lab Theater, Spoelhoef College Center. $9 Thu, $10 Fri and Sat, $5 students (Calvin box office, 526-6282). Apr 15-25 - “AN AMERICAN DAUGHTER”: Jewish Theatre presents the story of a successful woman nominated to be U.S. Surgeon General. 8 pm, 3 pm Sun. Spectrum Theater, 143 Bostwick Ave NE. $18 adults, $15 seniors, $5 students (234-3946). www.actorstheatregrandrapids.com. Apr 15-25 - “INTO THE WOODS”: Re-imagined characters in this musically fractured fairytale teach about responsibility. Cornerstone University theater department. 7:30 pm; 2:30 pm Apr 25. Matthews Auditorium, GR Theological Seminary, Cornerstone University, 3000 Leonard St NE. $12 adults, $10 students and seniors (254-1663). Apr 15-May 8 - “THE BUTLER DID IT”: Comedy parodies English mystery plays but with an American flair. 8 pm, 2 pm Sun. Holland Civic Theatre. Tickets TBD (616-396-2021, www.holland civictheatre.org). Apr 16-23 - “PLAY ON!”: Lowell’s Thebes Players present the hilarious story of a theater group trying to put on a play despite maddening interference from the author. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Apr 18. Cherry Creek Elementary 12675 Foreman, Lowell. $8 in advance (897-8545, www.lowell artscouncil.org), $10 at door. Apr 18 - DAVID SEDARIS: Best-selling author, humorist and NPR contributor. 7 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $32.50-$52.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). Apr 22-May 8 - “JOYFUL NOISE”: Based on the true story of the politics and passion that nearly prevented Handel’s “The Messiah” from being performed. 7:30 pm, 2 pm Sun. Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St SW. $15 adults, $13 seniors and students (455-1001, www.masterarts.org). Apr 23 - RON WHITE: Comedian from the Blue Collar Comedy show brings his Behavioral Problems Tour to town. 7:30 pm. DeVos
Performance Hall. $44.75 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). Apr 23-May 1 - “ALMOST MAINE”: Central Park Players present a midwinter’s night dream in the mythical town of Almost, Maine. 8 pm, 2 pm Sat. Grand Haven Community Center, 421 Columbus St, Grand Haven. $14 adults, $11 seniors and students (971-1329). www.centralparkplayers.org. Apr 24 - NAGATA SHACHU JAPANESE DRUMMING ENSEMBLE: Thundering, athletic drumming on vast array of Japanese taiko, gongs, bells, wooden clappers, shakers and bamboo flutes, plus beautiful costumes and dance. 8 pm. Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver St, Saugatuck. $35 (269-857-2399, www.sc4a.org). Apr 28 - SMUCKER’S STARS ON ICE: Champion skaters Evan Lysacek, Tanish Belbin and Benjamin Agosto, Sasha Cohen, Todd Eldredge and Michael Weiss. 7 pm. Van Andel Arena. $27.50-$132.50 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). Apr 29 - “KIMBERLY SCHMIDT MUSIC & DANCE SERIES”: Grand Rapids Ballet Company features live music and dance to benefit the Kimberly Schmidt Music Fund. Wege Theatre. 7 pm. Tickets TBD (GRBC box office or Ticketmaster). wwww. grballet.com. Apr 29 - WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY: TV favorites Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Chip Esten and Jeff Davis perform improv comedy and song lyrics. 7:30 pm. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. $32-$38. www.fhfineartscenter.com. Apr 29-May 2 - “THE SOUND OF MUSIC”: Muskegon Civic Theatre presents the story of Maria, a governess caring for the seven children of a widowed naval captain. 7:30 pm, 3 pm Sun. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $14-$20 (Frauenthal box office or Star Tickets). www.musk egoncivictheatre.org. Apr 30-May 1 - “PORGY & BESS”: Opera Grand Rapids presents Gershwin’s jazz-infused tale of pure-hearted Porgy as he fights to save his love from the clutches of a drug-dealing pimp. 7:30 pm. DeVos Performance Hall. $20-$94 (Opera and DeVos box offices or Ticketmaster). www. operagr.com.
Film
Apr - KNICKERBOCKER SPRING FILM SERIES: Mar 29-Apr 3 “Amreeka,” drama about a sin-
gle mother and son who move from Ramallah, Palestine, to Illinois. Apr 13-17 “An Education,” a young girl and her relationship with a much older man. 7:30 pm. Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E Eighth St, Holland. $6 adults, $5 students and senior citizens. Apr - SUNDAYS AT GRAM: Grand Rapids Art Museum shows films at 2 pm in the Cook Auditorium. Apr 4 “Ansel Adams.” Apr 11 “Henri Cartier-Bresson: The Impassioned Eye.” Apr 25 “Bernice Abbott: A View of the 20th Century.” Free with admission. Apr 6 - UICA: Urban Institute for Contemporary Art shows independent, foreign and documentary films. “The Horse Boy” is about a Texas couple who travel around the world to seek treatments for their autistic son. 7 pm. Free. 454-7000, www. uica.org.
Museums & Attractions Apr - AIR ZOO: More than 50 rare aircraft, plus exhibits and educational activities, including fullmotion flight simulators, 4-D Missions Theater, Magic Planet, Space Ball, Zero G, indoor amusement park rides and Michigan Space Science Center. Special exhibit thru Jun 30, The Spirit of Flight: The History of Aviation Through Art. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, noon-5 pm Sun. 6151 Portage Road, Portage, (269) 382-6555, www.airzoo.org. Admission price varies by height of participant and activities (see Web site). Apr - BINDER PARK ZOO: Opens for season Apr 22. Animals are exhibited in a natural, lush forest setting, including the 50-acre Wild Africa exhibit. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am-6 pm Sat, 11 am-6 pm Sun. 7400 Division Drive, Battle Creek. $11.95 adults, $10.95 seniors, $9.95 ages 2-10. www. binderparkzoo.org. Apr - BLANDFORD NATURE CENTER: 143 acres of diverse ecosystems, trails, natural history exhibits and animals. Interpretive Center open 9 am-5 pm Mon-Fri. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, 735-6240, www.blandford naturecenter.org. Free. Apr - CAPPON & SETTLERS HOUSE MUSEUMS: Restored Cappon House is the Italianate Victorian home of Holland’s first mayor. Tiny Settlers House recalls a life of hardships faced by early settlers. 1-5 pm Fri-Sat. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, children 5 and under free, members free. Cappon House, 228 W 9th St, Holland. Settlers House,
Illustration Courtesy Pomegranate Studios
Apr 8 - SOMETHING TAKES PLACE: Multi-media show second Thu of month is open to poets, sculptors, photographers, animators, break dancers, painters, folk singers, garage bands, etc. Register at www.somethingtakesplace.com. 7 pm. Park Theatre, 248 S River Ave, Holland. $2 at door.
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City Guide
Apr - COOPERSVILLE & MARNE RAILWAY: Restored 1920’s-era railway. Thru Apr 3, 90-minute Bunny Train ride stars the Easter Bunny, Wacky Duck, Lucky Lamb and a story-telling princess; 11 am and 2 pm Sat, 1 pm and 3 pm Sun; $14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors 60 and over, $11.50 kids 2-12, under 2 free. Regular Sat excursion rides begin Apr 10 at 11 am and 1 pm; $10.50 adults, $9.50 seniors 60 and over, $7.50 ages 2-12, under 2 free. 311 Danforth St, Coopersville, 9977000 (for advance tickets), www.coopersvilleand marne.org. Apr - DEGRAAF NATURE CENTER: 18-acre preserve includes Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch (images of earth and the universe) and more than 240 plant species. See Web site for activities. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 9 am-5 pm Tue-Fri, 10 am-5 pm Sat, closed Sun, Mon and holidays. 600 Graafschap Rd, Holland, (616) 355-1057, www.degraaf.org. Free. Apr - FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Thru Apr 30, Butterflies Are Blooming features hundreds of butterflies and moths from tropical regions flying freely in the conservatory. Outdoor exhibits include Children’s Garden, Michigan’s Farm Garden, 30-acre sculpture park, boardwalk nature trail, tram tours, themed gardens. Indoors has sculpture galleries, tropical conservatory, carnivorous plant house, Victorian garden, café and gift shops. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 9 am-9 pm Tue, noon-5 pm Sun. $12 adults, $9 seniors and students with IDs, $6 ages 5-13, $4 ages 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, 9571580, www.meijergardens.org.
Illustration Courtesy Pomegranate Studios
Apr - GERALD R. FORD MUSEUM: Thru Jun 13, America and the Cold War explores America’s struggle against the Soviet Union from 19461991. Permanent exhibits include The 1970s, An Overview; a video history of the Watergate scandal; a replica of the White House Oval Office; and New Mood at the White House, a holographic presentation. 9 am-5 pm daily. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $3 youth, 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St NW, 254-0400, www.fordlibrarymuseum.gov. Apr - HOLLAND MUSEUM: Cultural attractions from the “old country” and exhibits that explore local history: Lake Michigan maritime, shipwrecks and resorts; agriculture and manufacturing; religious foundation of the Holland Kolonie. I Spy Adventure and activities in Mark’s Room for children. 10 am-5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, children 5 and under free, members free. 31 W 10th St, Holland, (888) 2009123, www.hollandmuseum.org. Apr - JOHN BALL ZOO: See Spring Break Zoobilee in Kidstuff and Party for the Planet in Special Events. More than 1,300 animals, including ringtailed lemurs, Lions of Lake Manyara, penguins, Komodo dragon, Mokomboso Valley chimps, Spider Monkey Island, Living Shores Aquarium. 10 am-4 pm daily. $3.50 adults and seniors over 62, $3 kids 3-13, kids 2 and under free. 1300 W Fulton St, 336-4300, www.johnballzoosociety.org.
Apr - KALAMAZOO NATURE CENTER: 1,100 acres of forests, prairies and wetlands. See Web site for scheduled activities and camps. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 1-5 pm Sun. $6 adults, $5 seniors 55 and over, $4 children 4-13, children under 4 free. 700 N Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, (269) 381-1574, www.naturecenter.org. Apr - KALAMAZOO VALLEY MUSEUM: Permanent exhibits include a simulated mission to space via the Challenger Learning Center, a 2,300-year-old mummy and Science in Motion. See Web site for planetarium show schedule ($3) and scheduled
The best of clothing and furniture fashions
Apr - COOPERSVILLE FARM MUSEUM: Thru April, Dolls of Our Lives exhibit. Spring petting zoo 10 am-2 pm every Sat ($2, members and children under 3 free). Regular exhibits include tractors from 1930 to present, 100-year-old barns, interactive kids area. 10 am-4 pm Tue-Sat. $4 adults, $3 seniors, $2 children 3-18, under 3 free. 375 Main St, Coopersville, 997-8555, www.coopers villefarmmuseum.org.
There’s No Place Like Home
190 W 9th St, Holland, (616) 392-6740.
activities. 9 am-5 pm Mon-Sat, 1-5 pm Sun. 230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, (800) 772-3370, www. kalamazoomuseum.org. Free. Apr - LAKESHORE MUSEUM CENTER: 11 am-2:30 pm Apr 10, Native American Super Saturday celebrates history and culture. Thru Dec 31, You Should See This, more than 30 eclectic items from the museum’s collection chosen by community members and staff. Permanent exhibits include Michigan Through the Depths of Time; Body Works: It’s All Up to You; Habitats and Food Webs; Science Center; and Voices of Muskegon.
Psst…
…There’s No Place Like Home A benefit for Liz’s House and Bridge Street Place
Please join us for an event that celebrates the spirit of women and renewal. There’s No Place Like Home, a strolling cocktail party, highlighting the latest clothing fashions from Daniel’s and showcasing the elegant furniture of Klingman’s Home Furnishings. Proceeds from There’s No Place Like Home will benefit two very special Dwelling Place housing communities: Liz’s House and Bridge Street Place. Thursday, April 29, 2010 5:30pm – 7:30pm Klingman’s Home Furnishings 1001 28th Street SW, Wyoming, MI 49509 Tickets: $50 Please RSVP by Friday, April 23, 2010 To purchase tickets, please contact Evie Campbell at 616-855-0401.
Sponsors
Special thanks to: Model Katie Postma Photographer Jeff Dykehouse Clothing by Daniel’s Furniture by Klingman’s Home Furnishings
101 Sheldon Blvd. SE, Suite 2 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 454-0928
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City Guide: Clubs ’n’ Pubs
Green transformation The Pearl Street Grill focuses on grown-in-Michigan food and drink, served in newly renovated, contemporary surroundings. By Erin Price
bottled domestic $3.50.
Photography by Johnny Quirin
D
oes “green” have a flavor? It does, at least for those ful. It features only Michigan beers on tap, including selections relaxing at the Pearl Street Grill in the newly renovated from Founders and New Holland Brewery, and the majority of its wines are also Michigan-made, including some delectable downtown Holiday Inn. In 2008, what was then the Days Hotel began renova- Traverse City wines. There’s a good chance you won’t have to wait for a seat in the tions to update the hotel and restaurant using an earth-friendly focus. In the remodel, carpet, wall coverings and anything that restaurant, as it seems this place has gone mostly undiscovered could be recycled was — and all-green materials took their place. by the downtown crowd. But those who do will find everything For its efforts, what is now the Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Down- from gourmet pizzas to blackened tilapia. “I call it ‘creative classic comfort town has earned a Green Lodging cuisine,’” said Bernadette Benkert, Michigan Steward certification from food and beverage director. Unique the Michigan Department of Labor to downtown, the Grill offers free and Economic Growth. Pearl Street Grill parking and an “express restaurant” The small but inviting bar in the Location: 310 Pearl St. NW where carry-out items can be easily Pearl Street Grill seems to be the Hours: 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; ordered and picked up to take home place for a diverse clientele that one 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat.; 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. or to the office. might expect at a hotel: businessmen, Contact: (616) 235-1342 Pearl Street Grill continues to couples staying for a few nights, etc. make changes to help the environDécor is contemporary and fun. Features: Happy Hour 4-7 p.m. weekdays with $.50 off all drinks and half-off ment. There is a flat-screen TV adjacent to food specials. Full-service restaurant “Every month we have a ‘green the bar for those who like something serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. initiative,’” Benkert said. to watch and the lighting is soft and Drink Prices: Well drinks $3.50; “They are just simple things but welcoming. house wines $5.50/glass; beers on they can make a huge impact,” she The drinks are well-poured and tap $4.75/pint, $6.25/22-oz. glass, said. the bartenders are friendly and helpGR 68 Grand Rapids April 2010
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City Guide 9:30 am-4:30 pm Mon-Fri, noon-4 pm Sat-Sun. 430 W Clay, Muskegon, (231) 722-0278, www. muskegonmuseum.org. Free. Apr - LOWELL AREA HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhibits about Lowell history, a Victorian parlor, dining room and porch. 1-4 pm Tue, Sat and Sun, 1-8 pm Thu. $3 adults, $1.50 children 5-17, under 5 free, families $10 maximum. 325 W Main St, 897-7688, www.lowellmuseum.org. Apr - MEYER MAY HOUSE: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house, meticulously restored by Steelcase in 1986-87, features original furnishings and reproductions of arts and crafts-style items. Open for guided tours 10 am-2 pm Tue and Thu, 1-5 pm Sun (last tour begins one hour prior to closing). 450 Madison Ave SE, 246-4821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com. Free. Apr - PUBLIC MUSEUM: Thru May 31, Big, BIG BUGS! displays a mega-magnified praying mantis, stick insect, caterpillar, locust and more, plus a Bug House, bug life cycles, anatomy and adaptations and bug “jobs” ($2). 5-9 pm Apr 1-9 evening ticket package includes admission to museum and Bugs exhibit, dinner, carousel rides and a planetarium show for $10, $5 members. Thru Nov 20, Amway: 50 Years of Helping People Live Better Lives, the story of Rich DeVos and Jay Van Andel and the company they created. Also see Earth and Sky Day in Special Events. Permanent exhibits include: Streets of Old Grand Rapids; Newcomers, The People of This Place; Anishinabek, The People of This Place; Collecting A-Z; and a working 1928 carousel ($1). 9 am-5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat, 9 am-8 pm Tue, noon-5 pm Sun. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 children 3-17. Van Andel Museum Center, 272 Pearl St NW, 456-3977, www.grmuseum.org. Apr - ROGER B. CHAFFEE PLANETARIUM: Stateof-the-art, 3-D, Digistar-powered shows. 8:3010:30 pm Apr 19 and 20 Spring Moon Gaze (free). 1 pm Sat and Sun Discover Your Universe; 2 pm daily and 7 and 8 pm Tue Crickets and Constellations; and 3 pm Sat and Sun Under Starlit Skies. All are museum admission plus $3 (3 pm show free with admission). Laser Light Shows thru May 29: 9 pm Sat “Dark Side of the Moon” and 10 pm Sat “The Wall”; museum admission plus $7. Van Andel Museum Center (see Public Museum). Apr - TRI-CITIES HISTORICAL MUSEUM: Exhibits include a train depot display, Michigan Logging and Early Pioneers. 9:30 am-5 pm Tue-Fri, 12:305 pm Sat and Sun, closed Mon. 200 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, 842-0700, www.tri-citiesmus eum.org. Free. Apr - VEEN OBSERVATORY: Astronomical observatory owned and operated by Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association. Public viewing nights begin in Apr, weather permitting; call 897-7065 for updates. $3 adults, $2 kids 5-17, children under 5 free. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave SE, Lowell, www.graaa.org. Apr - VOIGT HOUSE VICTORIAN MUSEUM: 1895 home of the Carl Voigt family features three floors of original furnishings and personal possessions. 11 am-3 pm Tue, 1-3 pm every second and fourth Sun. $3 adults, $2 seniors and children 6-17. 115 College Ave SE, 456-4600, www.grmuseum.org.
Lectures & Workshops Apr - GRAND RIVER FOLK ARTS SOCIETY: Dance instruction events. 7:30 pm Apr 2, First Friday Dance with Celery City Sodbusters and Danika
Murray, 5th St Hall, $8 adults, $7 students/ seniors, $6 members. 7 pm Apr 9, International Folk Dance, Wealthy Theatre Annex, 1110 Wealthy St SE, $5 at door. 7:30 pm Apr 23, Fourth Friday Contra Dance, 5th St Hall, $6 at door. www.grfolk arts.org. Apr - GRAND VALLEY ARTISTS: 7:30 pm Apr 1 Artist Critique Night. 7:30 pm Apr 8 Program Night. Free and open to public. GVA Gallery, 1120 Monroe Ave NW, www.gvami.com. Apr - GR PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Adult computer classes include Basic Internet and Google Essentials. Also this month: Money Smart Mondays, Scientists are the New Rockstars, Green Clean, Rain Barrel Construction Party and Container Gardening. Thru Aug 31, Creating a Legacy: The Women of Grand Rapids exhibit. Pick up a schedule at GRPL Main Library, 111 Library St NE, or visit www.grpl.org. Free. Apr - GR TANGO: Beginner and intermediate dance lessons 8-9:30 pm every Thu, followed by free practice from 9:30-10:30 pm. $12 drop-in. Richard App Gallery, 910 Cherry St, www.grtango. org. Apr - KENT DISTRICT LIBRARIES: Programs include book discussions, writers groups, career workshops and Early Childhood Essentials. See Kidstuff for children’s activities. www.kdl.org. Apr - TRENDZ CLASSES: Architectural Surfaces Studio and School offers DIY and professionallevel classes; see Web site for schedule. 9818 Cherry Valley Ave, Caledonia, 588-3227, www. eco-trendz.com. Apr - WRITERS STUDIO: Constructive criticism and inspiration for those with a passion for writing. Every Wed 6:30-9:30 pm. UICA. Free. Apr 1 - GRCC DIVERSITY LECTURE SERIES: “With Justice for All” by Morris Dees, civil rights activist, attorney and author. 7 pm. Fountain St Church, 24 Fountain St NE. www.grcc.edu/ lecture. Free. Apr 7 - AQUINAS CONTEMPORARY WRITERS SERIES: George Brandt, playwright for “Any Other Name.” (See Stage.) 8 pm. Aquinas PAC. Free. Apr 7 - GVSU AUTHOR VISIT: “Three Cups of Tea” author Greg Mortenson. 7 pm. GVSU Fieldhouse, Allendale Campus. Free. Apr 10 - DANCEgr: One-hour dance lesson followed by social dance that includes East and West Coast swing, salsa, tango, waltz, cha cha, rumba, foxtrot and more. 7-8 pm lesson, 8-11 pm dance. Women’s City Club, 254 E Fulton St, www. dancegr.com. $10 lesson, $11 dance, $16 both. Apr 14 - BREASTFEEDING CLASS: Breastfeeding basics followed by practical pumping information from a board-certified consultant. Registration required. 5:30-8 pm. Baby Beloved, 555 Midtowne St NE, Ste 100, 977-5683, www.babybelovedinc. com. $35. Apr 15 - MEIJER GARDENS LECTURE: “Planting Villages: How Gardens Make Good Neighbors” by Roger Swain, host of “The Victory Garden” on PBS and science editor of Horticulture Magazine. 7 pm. Frederik Meijer Gardens. $12 adults, members free; register at 975-3144 or skilroy@meijer gardens.org. Apr 17, 24 - SECRETS FOR SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE: How to grow your relationship in preparation for marriage. 8:30 am-12:30 pm. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St SE, Cutlerville.
$100/couple (455-5279). www.pinerest.org. Apr 18 - GRAM LECTURE: “Places of Grace: American Landscape Photography.” 2 pm. Grand Rapids Art Museum. Free with admission. Apr 19 - DYSLEXIA SEMINAR: New Chapter Learning offers info on the thinking style, learning differences and gifts of visual thinkers. 6 pm. Wyoming Library, 3350 Michael Ave SW. Registration: 534-1385. www.newchapterlearn ing.net. Free. Apr 20 - NOURISHING WAYS OF WEST MICHIGAN: “The Way to a Healthier, Happy Child is Through the Tummy: Learn How Probiotics and Real Food Nutrition Heal the Gut,” by Sue McCreadie and holistic health counselor Angelle Batten. 7-8:30 pm. St Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N Division Ave, www.nourishingways.org. Free. Apr 20 - WEGE SPEAKER SERIES: Wege Foundation and Aquinas College present “Without Blue There is No Green,” by Sylvia Earle, founder and CEO of the Deep Research Foundation, marine scientist and explorer in residence at the National Geographic Society. 4 pm. Aquinas PAC, 1703 Robinson Rd SE, 456-6656, www.aquinas. edu. Free. Apr 21 - PUBLIC MUSEUM LECTURE: “27 Seconds That Changed the American Space Program” by Bryan Kwapil, 2010 Roger B Chaffee scholarship speaker. 8 pm. Meijer Theater, Public Museum. Free. Apr 22 - LEGISLATIVE NIGHT: Great Start Parent Coalition invites parents to talk to state legislators about the importance of early childhood. 6-8:30 pm. Hill Child Development Center, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave. Dinner and child care provided (register at 632-1007). www. firststepskent.org. Apr 26 - GR AUDUBON CLUB: “Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program” by Carolyn Weng and Ric Pedlar, Muskegon County Nature Club. 6:30 pm social hour, 7:30 pm presentation. Location TBD. www.glsga.org/grac. Free.
Sports Apr - GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS: American Hockey League team, primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings, wraps up the season with two home games: Apr 7 vs Rochester Americans. Apr 9 vs Lake Erie Monsters. 7 pm. Van Andel Arena, 130 W Fulton St. $5-$30 (Van Andel Arena box office, Meijer or Star Tickets). www.griffins hockey.com. Apr - WEST MICHIGAN WHITECAPS: Professional minor league baseball team, member of the 14-team Midwest League and Class A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, kicks off the season: Home games: Apr 7 Exhibition Game vs GVSU. Apr 11-13 vs Fort Wayne. Apr 17-19 vs Great Lakes. Apr 23-25 vs South Bend. Apr 27-29 vs Lansing. Game times vary. Fifth Third Ballpark, Comstock Park. $5-$13 (800-CAPS-WIN, www.whitecapsbaseball.com). Apr - WRESTLING CAMP: Register for Michigan Xtreme’s Take Top wrestling camp on May 29, open to all age groups. See www.michiganx treme.com for application form, more information. Apr 10 - TOWN CRIER RACE: 5K and 10K run around historic Saugatuck, plus a kids fun run. More info: (269) 857-1626. April 2010 Grand Rapids 69
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Shop Around Fine Wines, Beers and Specialty foods
City Guide Apr 17 - WEST MICHIGAN THUNDERHAWKS: Professional indoor football league competes against Green Bay Blizzard. 7 pm. DeltaPlex. $8-$19. www.westmichiganthunderhawks.com. Apr 24 - CALVIN 5K SPRING CLASSIC: Area chapters of the Calvin Alumni Association host a run/walk and family fun run. Entry fees go toward student scholarships. 9 am race. Spoelhoef Fieldhouse Complex, Calvin College. $25 before Apr 22, $30 on Apr 22 or after, $18 students. 5266142, www.calvin.edu/classic.
Distinctive collections
~ jewelry ~ home decor ~ fashion 2869 Knapp St. NE; Suite A Grand Rapids, MI 49525 Phone (616) 719-2518 www.crushedgrapegr.com
226 S. Hancock St. Pentwater, MI Phone (231) 869-5008 marilynsstyle@yahoo.com
Taste the Difference!
www.oldworldolivepress.com
Get Inspired Come see our special selection of French Country painted furniture.
Kidstuff For Kidstuff activities, see the April issue of Grand Rapids Family Magazine.
Calendar legend
Stop by our beautiful tasting room to sample from over 50 award-winning Oils and Balsamic Vinegars from around the world.
65 E. Bridge Street, Rockford | 616.884.0107
Apr 25 - YMCA INDOOR TRIATHLON: 15 minutes each of swimming in the pool, riding on stationary bikes and running on the indoor track. 8 am. David D Hunting YMCA, 475 Lake Michigan Dr NW. $45, $35 members (supports Strong Kids Campaign). Register: 855-9622.
Tea Time!
63 Courtland, Downtown Rockford
(Look for the yellow awning with poka dots)
(616) 866-8783
COMMONLY REQUESTED VENUE AND TICKET OUTLET INFORMATION FOLLOWS.
VENUES Aquinas Performing Arts Center, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 456-6656 The DeltaPlex Entertainment & Expo Center, 2500 Turner Ave. NW, 364-9000, www.deltaplex.com DeVos Place (DeVos Performance Hall), 303 Monroe Ave. NW, 742-6600, www.devosplace.org Forest Hills Fine Arts Center, 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8966, www.fhfineartscenter.com Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon, (231) 722-9750, www.frauenthal.info Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580 (main), 975-3147 (class registration line), www.meijergardens.org Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, www.artmuseumgr.org Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, 30 N. Division Ave., 222-6650, www.grct.org Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, www.grmuseum.org St. Cecilia Music Center, (Royce Auditorium, Dexter Ballroom), 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, www.scmsonline.org Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE, 234-3946 Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA), 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE, 454-7000 (film hotline 454-3994), www.uica.org Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St., 742-6600, www.vanandelarena.com Van Singel Fine Arts Center, 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, www.vsfac.com
TICKET OUTLETS
Grand Rapids Symphony office, 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, 454-9451, www.grsymphony.org Star Tickets, (800) 585-3737, www.startickets.com Ticketmaster, 456-3333, www.ticketmaster.com
list your event 28 N. Main Street in Rockford (across from The Corner Bar) 616-866-7716 www.rightathomeinrockford.com
calendar items must be submitted two months prior to the magazine issue date. please send submissions for the June calendar no later than April 15. e-mail caleditor@geminipub.com, fax (616) 4594800 or mail to grand rapids magazine, 549 ottawa Ave. nw, suite 201, grand rapids, mi 49503.
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City Guide: Hot Shots
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Soups On for charity; LBD kickoff
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Dozens of soups and hundreds of artsy bowls were the highlight of the 12th annual Soups On For All fundraiser Jan. 25 at The BOB. Nearly 1,200 guests attended the event, which raised about $112,000 for God’s Kitchen, an outreach program for children and families sponsored by Catholic Charities West Michigan. Attendees received handpainted bowls and sampled soups, breads, 1. John and Ginny Baysore and desserts while enjoying local bands and 2. Deborah Nykamp, David performers. Most foods were donated by Boomstra, Mary Haarman local restaurants, businesses and bakeries. and Rick Nykamp Black attire was de rigueur at the Little 3. Harrison and Madeline Black Dress party Feb. 13 at the JW MarMcIlhargey riott. The fete kicked off Culture & Cocktails, 4. Coco Bossardet, Rachael a new organization for GR’s young crowd. Ruiz and Brian Campbell Members will receive a ticket package to 5. Branden Keck and Ceara see performances by some of the city’s top Thompson arts groups. Following each performance 6. Stephen Nylen and or exhibit, a post party will be held at area Jessica Gustin restaurants and clubs. For information, visit 7. Andrea Hartsuff, Renee www.cultureandcocktails.com. Switzer, Jodi Wiersma and Jai Yung 7
Photography by Johnny Quirin
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Indulge in chocolate; Grand Cul event
1. Jennifer Moss and Pat Smith 2. Jessica Young, Samantha Schenk, Trista Geier, Vickie and Emily Jung and Jessica Materson 3. Jennifer and Katie Britten 4. Izabella Grace, Jeff and Sarah Anne Vandermeulen 5. Crowds at the Grand Culinary event
From homemade brownies to hand-dipped truffles, chocolate was the star at Indulge in a Cause, a fundraising event sponsored by the Grand Valley State University Women’s Center. More than 250 guests sampled chocolate goodies prepared by local bakeries and catering companies. Proceeds will help fund the center’s programs and services. Leo and Amy Beil of Leo’s accepted the Grand Rapids Magazine 2009 “Restaurant of the Year” award Feb. 17 at the 6. Darin Jamison, Andrew 30th annual Grand Culinary Affair. Students in the Grand Bowen, Alia Compton, Rapids CommuniKatie Dietrich, Kesone Vong ty College Secchia and Jordyn Shapiro 5 Institute for Culi7. Janet Korn and Sally nary Education Zarafonitis used only Michigan products to prepare dishes for the event’s Taste of Michigan theme. The Greater Grand Rapids Chefs Association presented awards to its members. Award for Chef of the Year and the Grimod de la Reyniere Award for Meritorious Service was given to the family of the late Eric Reynolds.
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2009 RestauRant of the YeaR Grand Rapids Magazine
Thank You Grand Rapids for Six Wonderful Years!
We’d like to express a sincere thank you to our loyal guests and the food critics alike who have continued to choose Leo’s as their favorite spot for casually elegant, everyday dining. Without you, we couldn’t be celebrating six wonderful years of award-winning service to the Greater Grand Rapids community.
“Best Seafood Restaurant” Grand Rapids Magazine 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 “Readers Poll”
Leo’s gift certificates available online at leosrestaurant.com
60 Ottawa NW | Downtown Grand Rapids | 616.454.6700 Lunch Monday-Friday 11:30-4:30 pm Dinner Monday-Thursday 4:30-10:00 pm Friday & Saturday 4:30-11:00 pm Closed Sunday
“Best Business Lunch” Grand Rapids Press 2008 “Tops in Grand Rapids Awards”
“Restaurant of the Year” Grand Rapids Magazine 2006, 2007 & 2009 “Dining Awards”
Join us for happy hour from 4-6 pm Monday–Friday and enjoy $2 draught beers and $5 martinis. GRM_04.10_Sec01_covers.indd 2
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The New! Cuban Chicken Panini Lean, smoked ham paired with all-natural, antibiotic-free chicken. A flavorful combination of spice and depth with our zesty chipotle mayo & savory sun-dried tomato ale mustard. Topped off with sweet and spicy pickle chips and grilled together with swiss cheese on freshly baked focaccia.
Perfectly paired with one of our award winning soups, like the Low-Fat Vegetarian Black Bean. panerabread.com GRM_04.10_Sec01_covers.indd 3
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