Grand Rapids Magazine - July 2019

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL: THROUGH THE LENS

TOP 5 SUMMER PARKS

CELEBRATING CITY LIFE

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Explore the local music scene Learn about GR’s oldest establishments Find out about the city’s newest additions Check out the Best of Grand Rapids

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Contents JULY 2019 / VOL. 56 / NO. 07

FEATURES

30/ Oldies but goodies

40/ Best of Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids’ oldest

The results of the 2018

establishments help

Grand Rapids Magazine

make the city thrive.

Best of GR Readers Poll.

BY ALLISON ARNOLD

COMPILED BY ANDREA STRAW

35/ Amplifying GR’s

42/ The List

local musicians

A guide to happenings

Gaining a following is

around greater

pivotal in being able to

Grand Rapids.

book bigger venues.

40 4 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

BY SAM EASTER

contents JULY 2019 / VOL. 56 / NO. 07

departments BACK & FORTH 8 / From the Managing Editor, contributors and letters 10 / Social media, GRMag.com sneak peeks, previews and more LIFE & STYLE 12 / Noteworthy items include Fratelli’s Kitchen & Bar, Whitewater Café and the Whitecaps’ Rocky Balburrito 14 / Reading room: GR Reads 15 / GR’s Top 5 places to take a break 19 / Health & wellness: CBD oil 20 / Hillyer leaves mark on GR’s medical community

15

ART & DESIGN 22 / Frame works: Neal’s Yard

“We’re storytellers here.

Our menu is telling food stories.”

24 / Artist profile: Paul Jendrasiak

JACQUELINE KASTELZ

26 / Art gallery listings and highlights

56

FOOD & DRINK 55 / Restaurant listings 56 / Dining review: Littlebird

93 / Calendar 96 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights

24 81

58 / Cocktail hour: Road trip, distillery style

100 / Performance venue listings and highlights 102 / Snap shots

70 / Chef profile: Jacqueline Kastelz and Anthony Tangorra of New Hotel Mertens 74 / Nosh and sip: Rosé for a summer’s day

OUT & ABOUT 92 / July highlights

104 / After thoughts: Hannah Rose Graves

26

CAUSE & EFFECT 81 / New City Neighbors

ON THE COVER: Skyline along the banks of the Grand River

Photography by iStock.com/ Denis Tangney Jr. 6 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

back & forth CONNECT WITH US

City Guide will keep you busy all summer

A

A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO, I attended my first Concerts Under the Stars performance. It was a mesmerizing experience. The series takes place within the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s planetarium and includes a visual display on the planetarium dome. It was one of the few times I really zoned out at a concert and was able to just be present without a million other thoughts trying to infiltrate my brain.

I think a lot of that had to do with the small venue setting. Rather than a more traditional venue,

people weren’t there to socialize while also listening to music; they were there for the music.

Grand Rapids has seen several small venues pop up with opportunities to truly enjoy the music, from GRAM on the Green to Music in the Stacks and Blandford Nature Center to LowellArts House Concerts. These are great opportunities for local musicians to connect with audiences eager to hear what’s new. Read about how local musicians are using these venues to make a name for themselves on p. 35.

Of course, our community also is lucky to have venues like Van Andel Arena, 20 Monroe Live and the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater, which draw big-name artists to its stages nearly every night of the year.

One person who has been front and center for these concerts is Paul Jendrasiak. Jendrasiak has been photographing national touring musicians since the ’90s. His work currently is on display at the Muskegon Museum of Art. Jendrasiak talks about how he got his start and shares some stories from his time behind the lens on p. 24.

This issue looks at some of Grand Rapids’ longest-operating establishments, a few of which have been around since the late 1800s. While it’s great to patronize the newest hot spots in town, don’t forget to make time for some old favorites this month, too.

Also enclosed is our annual City Guide. Use it year-round to help you connect with others in the community with similar interests and hobbies.

Charlsie Dewey Managing Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

Q&A: This month, we asked some of our contributors, “What is your favorite long-standing GR restaurant/bar?”

Allison Arnold

Bryan Esler

Sam Easter

WRITER

PHOTOGRAPHER

WRITER

“OLDIES BUT GOODIES” PAGE 30

“EUROPEAN VIBES” PAGE 56

“AMPLIFYING GR’S LOCAL

“Maggie’s Kitchen just celebrated its 36th anniversary and it’s one of my favorite restaurants for authentic Mexican food similar to my grandma’s cooking. It’s family-owned, friendly and casual with some of the best Mexican food in town.”

“When I moved to Grand Rapids in 2004, one of my go-to spots with my college friends was Wolfgang’s Restaurant. The at-home feel made this perfect for us college kids who missed a home-cooked meal!”

8 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

“I love having a beer at Grand Rapids Brewing Company or catching a latenight bite. The history of the building and the feel of the restaurant sets it apart from a lot of the newer breweries in town.”

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK

MUSICIANS” PAGE 35

Dr. Thomas J. Lambert D.D.S. 3300 Grand Ridge Dr NE | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 | Phone 616.364.6490

www.smilegrandrapids.com

“A highly professional team that gave us our healthy smiles and positive energy!

We recommend you visit these wonderful people to learn about their comprehensive approach to health and image!”

- Kathy and Keith Klingenberg

k n a h o T yu

FOR VOTING US GRAND RAPID’S “BEST DENTIST”

FOR 7 CONSECUTIVE YEARS!

Best of

Best of

Best of

Best of

Best of

Best of

Best of

2012-13 Readers Poll

2013-14 Readers Poll

2014-15 Readers Poll

2015-16 Readers Poll

2016-17 Readers Poll

2017-18 Readers Poll

2018-19 Readers Poll

back & forth CONNECT WITH US

Inside Grand Rapids Magazine Stay connected with Grand Rapids Magazine in print, at grmag.com and on social media.

Coming up next issue …

Ferris Coffee’s Pearl Street location is now serving beer and wine. Visit grmag.com

It’s the first day of school College students return to campus this month. For incoming freshmen, the transition to college can be daunting. We talk to area colleges about how they’re helping students succeed — and make it to graduation day.

On the radio

The Donut Conspiracy added two new locations. Find out where. Visit grmag.com

Join Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey at 9:45 a.m. Thursdays, as she presents the Weekend City Guide with Shelley Irwin on WGVU Radio FM 88.5 and 95.3.

On TV Would you rather have to eat all fruits or all veggies for the rest of your life?

Our social media followers respond:

Managing Editor Charlsie Dewey joins Shelley Irwin each month on WGVU’s Community Connection program to discuss what’s inside Grand Rapids Magazine.

NEXT MONTH’S QUESTION:

32% Veggies 68% Fruits

What back to school item were you most excited to shop for? a. Backpack b. Shoes c. Lunch box d. School supplies

We want to hear from you There are tons of ways to reach us. By mail: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Email: letters@grmag.com. Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number. Or follow us online at grmag.com or Facebook: @grmag Twitter: @grmagazine Instagram: @grmagazine on social media: 10 GRAND RAPIDS \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK (LEFT, RIGHT AND BOTTOM); FERRIS COFFEE (TOP CENTER); THE DONUT CONSPIRACY (LOWER CENTER)

Enjoy the great outdoors at one of our top 5 parks on page 15.

TM

Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com

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EDITORIAL

EDITOR: Tim Gortsema MANAGING EDITOR: Charlsie Dewey COPY EDITOR: Tom Mitsos DIGITAL EDITOR: Chris Ehrlich EDITORIAL INTERN: Allison Arnold CONTRIBUTORS: Jaye Beeler, Ann Byle, Ira Craaven, Sam Easter, Pat Evans, Kara McNabb, Mark F. Miller, Torrence R. O’Haire, Amy Ruis, Tricia van Zelst

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Best of 2018-19 Readers Poll

Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Media. Publishing offices: 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331 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 and at additional mailing offices. Copyright ©2019 by Gemini Media. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St., SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 495031444. 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 $4.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag. com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for

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life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS

noteworthy INTERESTING TIDBITS WE THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Gathering space WHITEWATER CAFÉ, a partnership between Rowster Coffee and the Embassy Suites Downtown, recently celebrated its grand opening in conjunction with the hotel. Located along the Grand River, Whitewater Café sits near the future location of the Grand Rapids Whitewater Park (and the planned return of the rapids to that portion of the river). Whitewater Café aims to serve as a community gathering space, especially for those interested in the outdoor culture surrounding the nearby Grand River.

The café features a full Rowster Coffee menu, along with baked goods by Embassy Suites and gelato from Palazzolo’s Artisan Gelato.

New Sicilian eats FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR opened at 443 Bridge St. NW, next door to the owners’ existing takeout pizzeria, Fratelli’s Pizza. After dreams of expanding, owners Vincenzo “Enzo” Cannizzo and Maria Cannizzo were presented with the opportunity

Ballpark grub

for a new restaurant when the

LOOKING FOR A TWIST on the

space next to Fratelli’s Pizza

traditional cheesesteak? The West

became available.

Michigan Whitecaps have you covered.

The menu at Fratelli’s

Winner of the Whitecaps’ 2019 Fan Food

Kitchen & Bar is a modern

Vote, the Rocky Balburrito is a deep-fried

take on Cannizzo family

cheesesteak burrito with loads of cheese,

Sicilian recipes, including a

onions and green peppers created by

wide range of appetizers and

Marc Viquez.

sandwiches, entrées, pastas

In addition to the Rocky Balburrito,

and, of course, a large list of

there are a number of other new items

delicious pizzas. The restaurant

added to the food lineup for the 2019

also has a full-service bar with

season, such as deep-fried bread pudding,

creative cocktails.

pork skin nachos, spare ribs and Takis.

— ALLISON ARNOLD

12 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

— ALLISON ARNOLD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYAN ESLER (TOP); COUTERSY FRATELLI’S KITCHEN & BAR (MIDDLE); WEST MICHIGAN WHITECAPS (RIGHT)

— ALLISON ARNOLD

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life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS

READING ROOM

Dive into summer reading

“Grocery: The Buying and Selling of Food in America” by Michael Ruhlman

IF YOU ARE LOOKING for a great book to

be Jeffrey Brown, a New York

enjoy poolside or at the beach this summer,

Times bestselling author. His

look no further than the Grand Rapids Pub-

books include graphic memoirs

lic Library’s 10 GR Reads selections. Each

for adults, all-ages humorous

summer, the downtown library selects 10

parodies, Star Wars adventures —

books as part of its annual program. You

including the popular Jedi Acad-

also can enjoy 26 events held throughout

emy series — and the Lucy and

the summer based on the books selected.

Andy Neanderthal graphic novel series. There will also be a cos-

ten Krueger-Corrado, marketing and com-

play competition, zine-making work-

munications manager at GRPL, about this

shop and a graphic novel panel discus-

year’s GR Reads program.

sion. This program is related to “The

How are the 10 GR Reads books selected each year? A team of librarians spends

Almost Sisters.” In the book, the main character is a comic book illustrator.

several months selecting the 10 books.

We are also hosting a GR Reads Pop

They look for books that are available in

Up Market on Thursday, Aug. 1, from

different formats, aren’t well known and

3 p.m.-8 p.m., inspired by Ayoola’s

have a lot of programming opportunities

fashion sense in “My Sister, the Serial

related to them. They also try to balance

Killer.” Come shop and support small

different genres, fiction and nonfiction,

local businesses that offer clothing,

and books that appeal to different types of

organic bath and beauty products,

readers. As you can imagine, discussions

delicious food, and more.

can get pretty intense!

Do you have a favorite of the 10 books

“Betty Ford: First Lady, Women’s Advocate, Survivor, Trailblazer” by Lisa McCubbin

“Roomies” by Christina Lauren

GR READS BOOKS:

Last year, we had readers suggest titles

and could you share a brief synopsis of

“The Almost Sisters” by Joshilyn Jackson

for this year’s program. The Reader’s

the book or why you loved it? I suggested

“Annihilation” by Jeff Vandermeer

Choice winner was “Annihilation.”

the book “Grocery: The Buying and Selling

“Betty Ford: First Lady, Women’s Advo-

Are there plenty of copies available at

of Food in America” by Michael Ruhlman.

cate, Survivor, Trailblazer”

the library for check out? Yes, we order

This book was a fascinating look at the his-

by Lisa McCubbin

between 30 and 40 physical copies of each

tory of the supermarket, as well as the con-

“Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug

book and multiple copies of the e-book.

tinued evolution of the industry. Ruhlman

Company that Addicted America”

Some titles, we also offer audiobooks, large

is a food writer, and he does everything

by Beth Macy

print, Books by the Stack (book club books)

from spending a day learning to bag gro-

“Endurance: My Life in Space, a Lifetime

and Spanish versions of the book. Our staff

ceries to visiting vendors and attending a

of Discovery” by Scott Kelly

monitors the circulation and holds on titles

grocer’s conference. You will never look at

“Friday Black” by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

and orders more throughout the summer

your weekly food shopping the same way.

“Grocery: The Buying and Selling of Food

Are any of the books by Michigan writ-

in America” by Michael Ruhlman

There also are events based on the

ers or have Michigan settings? One of the

“My Family and Other Animals”

books. Could you give a couple of exam-

books we selected this year is “Betty Ford:

by Gerald Durrell

ples of events taking place and the books

First Lady, Women’s Advocate, Survivor,

“My Sister, the Serial Killer”

they are related to? We are hosting a Comic

Trailblazer” by Lisa McCubbin.

by Oyinkan Braithwaite

as needed.

Geek Out on July 13. This is our version of

Visit grpl.org/grreads for more information.

a Comic-Con and our special guest will

— CHARLSIE DEWEY

14 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

“Roomies” by Christina Lauren

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

Grand Rapids Magazine spoke with Kris-

life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS

Devin Marshall enjoys a snack during Relax at Rosa at Rosa Parks Circle.

GRAND RAPIDS’ TOP 5

Parks to take a break

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA STRAW

Take a break from your workday and enjoy Michigan’s summer at one of Grand Rapids’ parks. Located in or near the city center, these parks are the perfect place to escape your day, relax and rejuvenate.

Here are our top five picks: Rosa Parks Circle is a

Take a stroll through

Sixth Street Park over-

great place to take your

Riverside Park to find

looks the Grand River

lunch break, with many

a perfect picnic spot

at 647 Monroe Ave. NW.

options for seating and

along the river. Enjoy the

With a great walking

nearby restaurants to

outdoors and a variety of

path and numerous

choose from. As the

food during Food Truck

benches and picnic

John Collins Park,

For a great view of Grand

weather warms up, be

Fridays at Riverside

tables, it’s a perfect loca-

located in East Grand

Rapids while you picnic,

sure to check out Relax

Park, which takes place

tion to grab a bite to eat

Rapids along Reeds

head to Lookout Park.

at Rosa, a free weekly

weekly beginning at 5

from a nearby restaurant

Lake, is a scenic spot for

Enjoy an evening picnic

lunchtime entertain-

p.m. now until October.

and enjoy a midday or

picnickers. Located near

and watch the sunset.

ment series featuring

2001 Monroe Ave. NE

evening break. Take

Gaslight Village, you can

801 Fairview Ave. NE

local bands and food

the Sixth Street Bridge

grab a snack to take with

trucks. 135 Monroe Cen-

across the river to Fish

you while you enjoy

ter NW

Ladder Park to catch the

the view. 650 Lakeside

fish migrating, too.

Drive SE

A couple enjoys their lunch break at Rosa Parks Circle’s weekly Relax at Rosa.

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 15

#bestofgr

Go to bit.ly/votebestofgr, it’s free!

Over 100 categories to vote on!

VOTING ENDS SEPTEMBER 6, 2019

Winners will be announced in the January 2020 issue of Grand Rapids Magazine!

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health & wellness

BY KARA MCNABB

Cannabis-based treatment CBD OIL IS THE NEW “it” essential oil — and

are treated with pesticides and fertilizers,

for good reason. Cannabis-based products

which can lead to cancer, endocrine system

are helping to treat myriad health issues,

disorders and more in humans and animals.

from epilepsy and cancer to insomnia, anxiety and everything in between.

Nearly 25,000 studies exist in the U.S.

full benefit of the plant’s medicine. And

National Library of Medicine related to can-

knowing the strain and THC-to-CBD ratio

nabinoids, which are the cannabis plant’s

is important, depending on the symptoms

key chemical compounds that positively

you’re trying to treat.

impact the body.

that cannabis, or any other plant medicine

THC and CBD, or tetrahydrocannabinol and

or pharmaceutical, is not a replacement for

cannabidiol. Our bodies also make canna-

lifestyle factors.

binoids, called anandamide and so do some

CBD won’t help you sleep if you’re staring

spice plants, like Ashanti peppers and basil.

at a screen. CBD won’t help your digestive

It’s these chemical properties that seem to

disease if you’re consuming a diet loaded

have the most potent effect on the immune

with processed foods. CBD won’t help your

system and nervous system.

anxiety if you don’t change your habits or

ance the immune system could treat chronic symptoms. Or people who have problems

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK

What’s also imperative is understanding

You’re probably familiar with two of them:

This means using CBD oil to help bal-

What’s also imperative is understanding that cannabis, or any other plant medicine or pharmaceutical, is not a replacement for lifestyle factors.

A full-spectrum product rather than an isolate also is essential to receive the

external influencers.

Sleep, whole foods, movement and emotional health are fundamental.

related to the nervous system — like depres-

If you are interested in learning more

sion, anxiety, seizures, multiple sclerosis

about CBD treatment options, The Grassy

and more — can benefit from this potent

Knoll, located at 1407 Robinson Road SE in

plant medicine.

Eastown and within Woodland Mall, carries

THC is what produces the psychoactive “high,” but CBD helps to mitigate these

a variety of CBD-infused products for people and their pets.

effects, hence the popularity of CBD oil. You

You also can contact Shelbe Ogburn, a

can find it infused in snacks, beer, coffee,

cannabis expert with Wellness Collective

pet food and more these days.

Grand Rapids, for consultation services.

When something becomes wildly pop-

— Kara McNabb is a naturopathic practi-

ular, it’s important to pay attention to the

tioner at Continuum Healing and a member

quality of the source. Many cannabis plants

of The Wellness Collective GR.

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 19

life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS

Hillyer leaves mark on GR’s medical community DR. FRANCES HILLYER practiced med-

by the Union Benevolent Association. The

As a member of the Women’s Board

icine in a time when elixirs, syrups and

UBA, with its various works including

of the UBA, she sailed to England with

pills promised to cure everything from

an orphanage, a hospital for Civil War

another member in 1886 to consult with

sore throats to cancer, ulcers to colic.

wounded and a home for indigent people,

Florence Nightingale about the creation of

Trained doctors prescribed mercury, mor-

recognized the need for trained nurses.

the nursing school. The school opened in

phine, opium, arsenic, heroin and cocaine to combat illnesses from asthma to diarrhea to toothaches.

This pioneering doctor was one of the first female physicians to have a documented practice in Grand Rapids (Frances Rutherford was the first in 1868), having arrived here from the East Coast around 1883 with her husband, the artist Henry Livingston Hillyer. They married in 1865 in Jersey City, New Jersey. Dr. Hillyer likely was born in 1846.

Hillyer, with her medical degree from Howard University, jumped right into the community, perhaps introduced around by her sister Caroline Torrey, wife of Arthur Torrey, who already lived in Grand Rapids. The sisters’ maiden name was Van Vechten, with Frances becoming a member of The National Society of the Daughters of the American RevoluVechten was an ensign during the American Revolution.

Hillyer, who had a daughter and a son, faced tragedy when her husband died just three years after their arrival in Grand Rapids. But his death didn’t stop her from continuing her medical practice and career.

One of her most lasting contributions was her role in the start of a nursing school Inset: Dr. Frances Hillyer. Right: Certificate of marriage for Henry Livingston Hillyer and Frances Van Vechten.

20 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY

tion. Her ancestor Teunis Teunisson Van

Grand Rapids in November 1886. By 1895, it was a full-fledged hospital and, in 1916, thanks to a donation by John and Minnie Blodgett, became Blodgett Memorial Hospital located at Plymouth Road and Wealthy Street.

Augusta Hillyer Brewer, Hillyer’s daughter, remained in Grand Rapids throughout her life, marrying businessman Joseph Brewer, who maintained a home in Grand Rapids and a working farm in Plainfield Township north of the Grand River.

As a member of the Women’s Board of the UBA, (Dr. Frances Hillyer) sailed to England with another member in 1886 to consult with Florence Nightingale about the creation of the nursing school.

The school opened in Grand Rapids in November 1886.

Hillyer died in October 1924 at around age 78 after what the Grand Rapids Herald called “a long period of ill health.” She was living at 444 Lyon St. NE and attended St. Mark’s Church. To honor her mother, Augusta Brewer created a trust fund of $5,000 to help graduates of the nursing school who faced financial need.

Hillyer, along with others on the hospital committee, “from the date that the school was founded and as long as they lived took the most active interest, both in the school and in the individual students in it,” according to the Alumnae Journal.

Special thanks to the Grand Rapids Public Library’s Grand Rapids History & Special Collections department housed on the fourth floor of the Main Library.

– ANN BYLE

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 21

frame works

BY MARK F. MILLER

Alley cat Envisioning the sensuous city

Even if this alley does not completely mesmerize today, it is important to know the colorful and buzzing enclave of presentday Neal’s Yard was once a dark back alley filled with dumpsters and inhabited by rats.

I was compelled to revisit this place, called Neal’s Yard, at various times of the day and night during my stay. Each time I found something new. Whether it was the bench that was whimsically integrated into the storefront at Jacob the Angel coffee shop or the Buddha statue carefully resting on the nook of a windowsill of a second-floor yoga studio, these new discoveries created visual interest within the many human-scaled layers of the place.

Human-scaled layers are perhaps what make a place special — providing intimate, comfortable and sensuous experiences to those who wander off a street grid and into an alley or hidden courtyard. We as travelers oftentimes seek these experi22 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

ences and, on some occasions, may even be inspired to dream of how these special places could be created in our hometown.

In the case of Neal’s Yard, we may envision the network of underutilized alleys in our downtown, that today are filled with overflowing dumpsters and stinking grease bins, being transformed into bright and inviting people places. Perhaps Midtown Arcade between Lyon and Pearl streets behind Bull’s Head Tavern or the alley that extends from Weston to Oakes streets behind Luna.

This alley, in particular, has great potential, especially on its south end by New Hotel Mertens, where many of the rear building walls provide a patinaed brick canvas and a mosaic of fenestration patterns. Add in years of mechanical and electrical installations that now read as a cobbled maze of pipes, ducts and downspouts, and you have the makings of a potentially special place.

The enclosure of this alley is similar to that of Neal’s Yard, with four- and fivestory buildings defining edges of space.

These buildings, with years of incremental changes to windows and doors, have residual archways, textured surfaces and fine-grained windowpanes that await the application of paint, landscaping and human-scaled interventions to bring them to life. The “ceilings” of this space, already partially defined by a lattice of infrastructure, need only another layer of carefully placed festoon lighting to fully define their upper edge.

Even if this alley does not completely mesmerize today, it is important to know the colorful and buzzing enclave of present-day Neal’s Yard was once a dark back alley filled with dumpsters and inhabited by rats. It was the rear lane for a few warehouses that supported the Covent Garden fruit and vegetable markets, and was slated to be demolished in the 1970s.

Anything is possible with a vision —

Various storefronts in Neal’s Yard, an alleyway in London’s Covent Gardens.

awakening the senses and opening up an experience through the reframing of a forgotten or underutilized space certainly is within our local grasp. Combining careful varieties of texture, color and pattern; and then layering these with landscapes, artwork, café seating and storefronts that allow businesses to open into the quaint alley space with a second front door, could indeed lead to a sensuous place right in the center of our own downtown.

— Architect and planner Mark F. Miller is managing director of planning and design at Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. He has led the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission and the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK MILLER

BATHED IN THE EARLY MORNING SUN, a layered tapestry of bright colors, verdant landscape and rich textures ever so slightly beckoned me as I strolled through Covent Garden in London’s West End last June.

Revealed only through a narrow opening in a continuous wall of storefronts on Monmouth Street, this teasing glimpse of something different was enough to compel me to turn into the passageway.

As the cranky alley began to deflect and open into a larger, yet still constrained courtyard, the colors grew bolder, foliage became more layered and myriad quirky and human-scaled details were unveiled.

Artful signs, window panes in a rainbow of colors, old patinaed bricks, crisscrossed festoon lights, a jumbled array of fenestration patterns and a landscape that seemingly grew out of the ancient walls combined to convey a mesmerizing place.

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

PAUL JENDRASIAK

24 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

It’s more than rock ‘n’ roll Paul Jendrasiak has been photographing rock stars since 1991.

A LOT OF JOURNALISTS start small — but not Paul Jendrasiak.

Now an accomplished rock concert photographer, the West Michigan native has shot everyone from Pearl Jam to Smashing Pumpkins to Snoop Dogg. But in the spring of 1990, he was a kid graduating from Ottawa Hills High School who liked guitar but didn’t really know what he wanted to do with his life. So, he called the local music magazine.

“I thought it would be kind of cool to interview rock stars. And so I called (the

editor) up, and I saw KISS was coming to town, and I said, ‘Well, yeah, I’ll get you an interview with Gene Simmons of KISS,’” Jendrasiak said. “I didn’t have any connections. I didn’t have any journalistic experience or anything like that. But I figured out who to contact and managed to get an interview a couple days later. I mean, if you’re going to dive in, I guess dive in at the deep end of the pool.”

Jendrasiak’s gig led to interviews with the likes of Jon Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Ozzy Osbourne and Sarah McLachlan. Most

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL JENDRASIAK

“I thought it would be kind of cool to interview rock stars. And so I called (the editor) up, and I saw KISS was coming to town, and I said, ‘Well, yeah, I’ll get you an interview with Gene Simmons of KISS.’”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL JENDRASIAK

From left to right: Gary Clark Jr. at 20 Monroe Live (2017); Elton John at Van Andel Arena (2018); Snoop Dogg at The Intersection (2012); Willie Nelson at The Kalamazoo State Theatre (2013); Billy Gibbons at Rock the Rapids (2013); The Flaming Lips at 20 Monroe Live (2017); Morrisey at Vinyl Solution (1992).

importantly, his interviews catapulted him into the rock photography community. From his beginnings as an upstart interviewer, he soon became an expert rock photographer with work spanning the early 1990s as well as the 2010s.

Since May 23, much of that work has been on display at the Muskegon Museum of Art, where it will remain in an exhibit titled “Lights, Camera, Rock ‘n’ Roll: The Music Photography of Paul Jendrasiak” through Sept. 1. There are images of Elton John, Flea (of the Red Hot Chili Peppers), Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, Morrissey, Willie Nelson, Kid Rock, Taylor Swift and more.

Jendrasiak lives in Grand Haven with his wife and young daughter. His career has taken him in and out of photography over the years but has put him in front of

seminal artists at what he now recognizes as critical moments in music history.

One of his favorite shows was Pearl Jam, when the band visited West Michigan just before making it big in the early 1990s. He recalled that night as a snapshot in music history, right before hair metal made way for grunge rock.

“It was (a) Pearl Jam, Smashing Pumpkins and Red Hot Chili Peppers show at State Theatre in Kalamazoo (in 1991). And nobody knew who Pearl Jam was,” Jendrasiak said. “A week later, they were all over the airwaves. … Even though I didn’t have any clue who they were, you could feel an energy. You knew that this was a band who was going to be somebody.”

In the nearly 30 years that have passed since he first came on the music scene, Jendrasiak said he has seen big changes,

from streaming music to YouTube to everpresent cell phones. But the photographs he captures still are a way to see not just a moment in time but a lasting portrait of an artist. He mentions, in particular, a photo of Chris Whitley he shot at Grand Rapids’ Club Eastbrook in 1992.

“You look at him, and you see that he’s a beautiful guy, but you also can see some of the pain there. I think with a photograph — versus seeing a video or something — you can kind of stand there and take a number of things away, form some sort of an emotional connection — where you can see the contrasts in there of maybe pain and beauty. Something is emotionally communicated in a photograph,” Jendrasiak said. “And I’m not just talking about taking a picture of a musician on stage.”

— SAM EASTER JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 25

art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

1/ Julie Quinn’s abstract art is at Forest Hills Fine Arts Center.

Local art galleries COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST

1/ FOREST HILLS FINE ARTS CENTER: Artist-in-residence program offers exhibits by local and regional artists during the school year, also exhibits by Forest Hills Public Schools students and staff. Through July 26, Julie Quinn exhibits her abstract artwork, which represents her spiritual journey through life. Her selftaught, unique technique uses clayboard that is multilayered with a variety of paint mediums. A reception is 6-7 p.m. July 11. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhfineartscenter.com.

2/ TERRYBERRY GALLERY: Local and international art. July 2-29, “Color Chords” by Joan Bonnette includes watercolor, collage and charcoal with ebony pencil artwork that features a musical theme. A reception is 5:30-7:30 p.m. July 12. Lower level, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmc-online. org/visit-terryberry-gallery.

Heartside Gallery: Folk, outsider and intuitive art by self-taught Heartside residents. 48 S. Division Ave., 235-7211 ext. 103, heartside.org.

Holland Area Arts Council: Changing exhibits of art. 150 E. Eighth St., Holland, 396-3278, hollandarts.org.

Aquinas College Gallery: Work by students, faculty and visiting artists.

Art & Music building, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 632-8900, aquinas.edu/ art/gallery.

ICCF: Inner City Christian Federation headquarters displays art in various media. 920 Cherry St. SE, 336-9333, iccf.org.

Calvin College Center Art Gallery: Student, faculty and alumni work, plus exhibits by visiting artists. Calvin College Covenant Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE, 5266271, calvin.edu/centerartgallery.

Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University: Work by students in graduate-level programs and special community projects. 17 Fountain St. NW, 451-2787, kcad.edu/galleries.

Design Quest Gallery: Furniture store exhibits art in a gallery setting.

4181 28th St. SE, 940-9911, design quest.biz.

Fed Galleries @ Kendall College of Art and Design: Work by contemporary visiting artists, students and staff. 17 Pearl St. NW, 451-2787, kcad.edu/galleries.

Flat River Cottage: Fine art, jewelry, antiques and home décor; also, paintings by Kathleen Mooney. 317 E. Main St., Lowell, 897-8601, flatriver cottage.com.

Flat River Gallery & Framing: Artist cooperative shows work in a variety of mediums, plus gifts, framing and workshops. Through July 31, Diane Hasso Guest Artist Exhibit. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 987-6737, flatriver galleryandframing.com.

Fountain Street Church Keeler Gallery: Art exhibits in a variety of mediums by visiting artists. 24 Fountain St. NE, 459-8386, fountain street.org/art.

26 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

2/ Music is the focus of Joan Bon-

nette’s exhibit at Terryberry Gallery.

Gallery 154: Eastown gallery shows local and national multimedia art, gifts and jewelry. 1456 Lake Drive SE, 454-2154, facebook.com/ gallery154.

GRCC Collins Art Gallery: Exhibits by visiting artists, faculty and students. 143 Bostwick Ave. NE, 2343544, grcc.edu/artgallery.

GVSU Art Galleries: Student artwork and exhibits by renowned artists. Allendale campus: 1 Campus Drive, Allendale, 331-2563. Pew Grand Rapids campus: Permanent exhibit: “Mathias J. Alten: An Evolving Legacy” at George and Barbara Gordon Gallery.

DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton St., 3313638, gvsu.edu/artgallery.

Kruizenga Art Museum: Art from Hope College’s permanent collection and visiting exhibitions. 271 Columbia Ave., Holland, 395-6400, hope.edu/kam.

LaFontsee Galleries: 2D and 3D works by gallery artists, plus framing and restoration services. Also, Urban Craft Boutique with gifts, accessories and home décor. Through July 3, “Open Ended: A Continuation.”

July 20, Artist Demos. 833 Lake Drive SE, 451-9820. lafontsee.us.

Leep Art Gallery: Work by a variety of visiting artists. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St. SE, pinerest. org/leep-art-gallery.

LowellArts: Changing exhibitions of works by Michigan artists.

Through Aug. 17, “Livin’ Is Easy” by Justin Bernhardt, Lisa Mull, Kerry Rolewisz, Craig Cossey, Mariel Versluis and Olivia Timmons. 223 W. Main St., Lowell, 897-8545, lowell artsmi.org.

3/ Valentina Gregorieva’s artwork is at Guardian Gallery in Lowell.

MercuryHead Gallery: A variety of work by local artists; also gifts, photo restoration, digital printing on canvas and framing. 962 E. Fulton St., 456-6022, facebook.com/mer curyheadgallery.

Merizon Studio: Art, mirror and glass design, custom framing and limited-edition prints by Armand Merizon. 9087 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Caledonia, 485-5752, merizon studio.com.

Perception: American and European art, plus framing and appraisal services. 210 E. Fulton St., 451-2393.

Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts: Innovative, contemporary exhibits and installations. Through Aug. 18, “Breaching the Margins.” 2 W. Fulton St., 454-7000, uica.org.

Van Singel Fine Arts Center: Changing exhibits by local artists.

8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, vsfac.com/pro gramming/art-gallery.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JULIE QUINN (TOP); JOAN BONNETTE (BOTTOM LEFT); VALENTINA GREGORIEVA (BOTTOM RIGHT)

The Artist’s Studio: Studio and gallery with work by Jim Starkey and Rose Ellis; also, custom framing. 40 Monroe Center NW, 454-6650, face book.com/theartistsstudio1.

3/ FRANCISCAN LIFE PROCESS CENTER: Changing exhibits by local artists. Guardian Gallery - Grand Rapids: Through Oct. 25, pastel paintings by Kristen Thornton. 654 Davis St. NW. Guardian Gallery - Lowell: Through Oct. 28, “Capturing the Light” by Valentina Gregorieva includes sketches and paintings inspired by her extensive travel. 11650 Downes St., 897-7842, lifeprocesscenter.org.

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city IES AND NATIVES A GUIDE FOR NEWB

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GU I D E

Oldies but goodies 30 Amplifying GR’s local musicians 35 Best of Grand Rapids 40 City Guide Lists 42

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 29

Russo’s Division Avenue Store

Grand Rapids’ oldest establishments help make the city thrive.

Oldies but goodies Grand Rapids has grown significantly over the years, bringing in a number of new businesses. While we appreciate all of the new businesses that have contributed to Grand Rapids’ growing economy, there are several businesses that have been pivotal to the city’s history worth highlighting.

These businesses, organizations and venues have stood the test of time as some of Grand Rapids’ oldest and most beloved. Here’s to celebrating the people and places that have helped make this city what it is today.

30 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

RUSSO’S INTERNATIONAL MARKET Since 1905 2770 29th St. SE G.B. Russo & Sons, now Russo’s International Market, began 114 years ago as a food cart in Ramona Park. Giovanni B. Russo was only 20 years old when he wanted to start a business that could serve the needs of Italian immigrants in West Michigan. In 1908, Russo saved enough money to purchase a storefront on Division Avenue and Franklin Street SE, an area that was then referred to as “Little Italy.”

G.B. Russo’s became a staple not only within West Michigan’s Italian community, but the community as a whole, providing a unique selection of quality products

and imported goods, and exceptional customer service.

Kindness and a sense of community always have been a part of the family-owned business, which is why it has been cherished by so many, for so long. Phil Russo, one of the current owners, recalled his father Frank Russo, saying, “During the Depression, my dad carried a lot of customers on the books because they didn’t have the money. They were honest people, and when they got back to work, they paid it back.”

“On an almost daily basis, we have customers come in and share nostalgic stories of coming here as a child with their parents and grandparents,” Phil Russo said. “Russo’s International Market is a delicious, staple ingredient to family gatherings, and we thank you for your continuous patronage.”

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY RUSSO’S INTERNATIONAL MARKET

BY A L L I S O N A R N O L D

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY RUSSO’S INTERNATIONAL MARKET

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY RUSSO’S INTERNATIONAL MARKET

Top: Russo’s Divisio n Avenue store interior. Middle: Rus so’s Eastern Avenue store. Bottom : Frank Russo with a customer. Rig ht: Frank Russo using the deli slicer.

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 31

PICKWICK TAVERN

THE APARTMENT LOUNGE

GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE

Since 1934

Since 1972

Since 1925

970 Cherry St. SE

33 Sheldon Ave. NE

30 N. Division Ave.

“It hasn’t changed. It’s remained the same,” said John Rusilowski, owner of Pickwick Tavern. Walking into the no-frills Pickwick is like stepping back in time to when it opened in 1934, one year after Prohibition was repealed.

The Rusilowski family has owned the Pickwick for over 70 years with John Rusilowski purchasing it from his family’s estate in 1988. It’s hard to say why founder Raymond Taggert chose the name Pickwick. Some speculate the bar was named after Charles Dickens’ “The Pickwick Papers,” or perhaps after Pickwick Ale, which was made famous in Boston.

Originally serving only beer and wine, the Pickwick Tavern now sells liquor, but guests won’t be able to find a craft beer in sight. Rusilowski calls the tavern a “macro bar,” meaning he only sells the “beers that made the industry.” You also won’t find any food when you get hungry, other than a few bags of chips on the wall for purchase — but only with cash. Just like in 1934, the Pickwick only accepts cash, although there is an ATM on-site. The only phone at the Pickwick is a payphone, a rare oddity now.

While businesses have come and gone, the Pickwick has been stable, surviving the changes and providing a drink and conversation for guests seven days a week and 365 days per year. The simple and straightforward nature of the Pickwick sets it apart from the rest, proving that sometimes a classic is best.

Nearly 50 years ago, partners Milton Lennox and Ed Ladner founded The Apartment Lounge as a safe space for gay people to hang out and socialize — a first of its kind in Grand Rapids. It was coined as “Michigan’s best-kept secret,” as many would say they were going to The Apartment and others would think they were actually going to someone’s apartment. The Apartment Lounge originally was located at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Fulton Street, before moving in 1988 to its current location on Sheldon Avenue.

Regulars are accustomed to the “ding” that rings each time the door is opened. “Our customers over the years have naturally become family,” said Eric Zuniga, manager at The Apartment Lounge. “We’ve witnessed the heartbreak of the AIDS epidemic, the triumph of marriage equality and the continuous attacks on our trans community. It’s nice to have a space where customers are valued like family.”

For the last six years, Bob Johnson has been the owner of The Apartment Lounge, a place he believes is more than just a bar.

“His vision of the bar is to provide a safe space where no one is judged, everyone is equal and where together, we can make a difference,” Zuniga said.

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre was formed in 1925 and has emerged today as the fifthlargest community theater in the country.

Formerly known as the Civic Players, the group would produce four plays per year in the St. Cecilia auditorium.

In the 1960s, the Civic Theatre formed a partnership with Grand Rapids Public Schools, offering theater classes to youth.

The Civic Theatre moved to its current location in 1979, a space comprised of four buildings including the Wenham Building, the Hull Building, the Botsford Building and the Meijer Majestic Theatre.

Today, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre & School of Theatre Arts produces nine main stage productions per year with the assistance of over 800 volunteers and provides theater education to over 1,600 students.

“

OUR CUSTOMERS OVER THE YEARS HAVE NATURALLY BECOME FAMILY. WE’VE WITNESSED THE HEARTBREAK OF THE AIDS EPIDEMIC, THE TRIUMPH OF MARRIAGE EQUALITY AND THE CONTINUOUS ATTACKS ON OUR TRANS COMMUNITY.” ERIC ZUNIGA 32 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER Since 1883 24 Ransom Ave. NE In 1883, nine women formed St. Cecilia Society, paying tribute to the patron saint of music and with the mission of promoting the study and appreciation of music. In 1892, the St. Cecilia Society purchased its current property at 24 Ransom Ave. NE and hired Chicago architect Henry Ives Cobb to design the building, which was dedicated in 1894.

Today, St. Cecilia remains a staple for music aficionados, bringing in national talent through several annual concert series.

COTTAGE BAR Since 1927 18 LaGrave Ave. SE Much has remained the same at Cottage Bar since it opened on the corner of LaGrave Avenue and Fulton Street in 1927. Earl and Marie Coon were the founders of the Cottage Bar, originally a frequent lunch spot for nearby manufacturers and reporters from the Grand Rapids Herald, often serving up orders of hamburgers by the hundreds. Cottage Bar was the first in Grand Rapids to obtain a liquor license after Prohibition.

It has stood the test of time, surviving Prohibition and continuing its legacy in Grand Rapids as the go-to spot for delicious burgers, award-winning chili and cold beer.

There’s something special about the Cottage Bar, its original art deco mahogany bar and the fact that generations have come to enjoy it, celebrating anything from first dates to anniversaries.

“It’s the people that do it for me,” current owner Dan Verhil said. “They’re always friendly and never sad, and if they are, they aren’t for long.”

He notes his wife often says the Cottage Bar feels like an old shoe because it always feels comfortable.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre moved to its current location in 1979.

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 33

NICK FINK’S Since 1888 3965 W. River Drive NE, Comstock Park Nick Fink’s is undoubtedly known as the oldest bar in the Grand Rapids area. Established in 1888 by Nick Fink, a Prussian immigrant, the bar also has served as a post office, hotel and, supposedly, a brothel. It was passed down to Nick Fink II and Nick Fink III before being sold to The Gilmore Collection in 2008.

Not much has changed at Nick Fink’s since it first opened. Some of its longstanding features include handcarved names, the bar top, beer cooler, and black and gold velvet wallpaper. There also are many legends attached to Nick Fink’s, such as it being a favorite of Al Capone, inspiration for Ernest Hemingway’s Nick Adams Stories and even housing supernatural activity.

in 1970.

Top: Nick Fink’s bar to of pho ic tor His : Bottom Nick Fink’s bar.

GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY Since 1871 111 Library St. NE In 1871, the Grand Rapids Board of Education, the Ladies Literary Association and the YMCA decided to combine their book holdings and founded the Grand Rapids Public Library. The library moved from space to space until 1900, when it began the process of finding a permanent home.

Bedford limestone and Carrara marble adorn the 1904 Ryerson Building, the library’s current home, which was gifted

by Martin Antoine Ryerson.

Over the years, the library has undergone renovations and expansions, in addition to creating neighborhood branches.

The Grand Rapids Public Library will celebrate 150 years in 2021.

CHOO CHOO GRILL Since 1946

The Choo Choo Grill packs a powerful punch for such a small spot. Nestled on the corner of Leonard Street and Plainfield Avenue, the Choo Choo Grill has been serving legendary burgers and homemade malts since 1946. The building was built in 1927 as part of a coal company, and the nearby train station and old railroad gave inspiration to the train-themed diner.

Current owner Rick Mack bought the Choo Choo Grill 22 years ago. The cozy space and tight bar seating invite people from all walks of life to come in, talk openly and feel comfortable, all things that make the Choo Choo Grill special, according to Mack. GR 34 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THE GILMORE COLLECTION

1209 Plainfield Ave. NE

Rendering of Listening Room

RENDERING COURTESY LISTENING ROOM

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THE GILMORE COLLECTION

Gaining a following is pivotal in being able to book bigger venues for local musicians.

Amplifying GR’s local musicians

BY S A M E A S T E R

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 35

“

GENERALLY SPEAKING, BY THE TIME WE BOOK SOMEBODY, THEY HAVE TO HAVE SOME KIND OF FOLLOWING ESTABLISHED. THEY’VE GOT TO HAVE SOME KIND OF DRAW.” TAMI VANDENBERG

Jes Kramer has come a long way since her first gig at a now-shuttered West Side coffee shop. Back then, she was 17 years old and balancing her music life alongside high school, and she remembers the terror of brandishing a unique, one-woman-band style with the fresh pressure of a live crowd.

“It was really terrifying when you’ve just been playing in your basement for a long time,” she said, “and then you have to figure out how to present it live — especially as a solo artist.”

Now, more than a decade later, she’s a doit-all singer-songwriter with a melancholic mix of synthesizers and charmingly rigid beats. She’s been around long enough to watch the local music scene grow, change and find new sounds. And as Grand Rapids booms — with venues opening and closing often — that’s no small thing.

One of Kramer’s most recent shows was at Books and Mortar, a Cherry Street bookshop.

It’s a far cry from the big stages downtown, but nearly any stage is valuable real estate when you haven’t bought a tour bus, yet. And now as much as ever, it’s those small-scale opportunities that play a vital role in Grand Rapids’ musical ecosystem, helping artists

get a toehold and build an audience.

It’s useful to think of the music industry as a mountain that every artist is trying to climb at once. At the peak are the world’s most famous musicians, playing to thousands at Van Andel Arena or 20 Monroe Live before jetting off to the next neon-soaked summit in Chicago or Seattle or London. Think Justin Timberlake, Paul McCartney and Taylor Swift.

Between there and the very bottom is everybody else, including the artists like Kramer that are part of Grand Rapids’ local music scene — which, unlike superstars, lend the city its unique musical sound. The climb is as hard as ever with packed slopes and ever-changing terrain. An open mic night disappears or a low-rent venue closes its doors, but a bookstore concert puts a new sound in front of another crowd.

Kramer laments that some of the biggest changes have been the loss of the smaller haunts she used to play years ago. The Hungry Heart Cafe, where she debuted, is now gone. At the Division Avenue Arts Collective (DAAC), leaders have high hopes for the future, but the organization hasn’t had a permanent home since 2013. In past years, she said, there were many more all-ages venues.

PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTH PAGES) BY CATHY SEAVER

Jes Kramer performs at Books & Mortar bookstore.

36 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 37

PHOTOGRAPHY BY XXXXXXXXXXX

38 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

“

WEST MICHIGAN IS RIPE WITH TALENT RIGHT NOW, AND WE HAVE THE SPACE TO HIGHLIGHT (IT).”

HAYES GRIFFIN compared to Chicago or Detroit, where people can create a network and can get their music heard, where I think if I lived in Chicago or Detroit I’d feel … like, oh, nobody’s going to care,” Lytle said.

But, as Griffin points out, the city’s music scene is growing.

“West Michigan is ripe with talent right now, and we have the space to highlight (it),” he said, calling the music community a “symbiotic” group of venues — in which bigger stages help draw the interest that spills over to smaller concerts. “With the bigger venues, it’s almost like there is a

bigger emphasis on music in this town.”

One of the newest changes is coming at the sprawling construction site just south of Van Andel Arena, where Studio Park — future home to apartments, retail and a movie theater — will welcome a “listening room” venue this fall. Quinn Mathews will manage the space, which he describes as something like an old-time jazz club with servers and “bourbons and beer and wine.” It’s a more mellow experience than a crowded floor at 20 Monroe Live, which means mellower sets and a more intimate experience.

Mathews said he wants the venue to help break down the wall between the casual concertgoer — who maybe goes to one big concert once or twice a year — and people who are consistently seeing shows.

“I want them to say, ‘I go to one or two concerts a month and I go to the listening room, or I go to The Intersection,’” he said.

After all, he added, there isn’t a Grand Rap-

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BENJAMIN HOWELL (ABOVE)

“It was easier for me as a 17-year-old high school kid to book shows then than it is for a 17-year-old high school kid now,” Kramer said.

Those changes have happened as Grand Rapids has boomed with new growth making for remarkable change, especially downtown, where it’s shifting the look and feel of the city center and catapulting the greater area’s fair market rent by more than 50% since 2009.

But Kramer said she’s encouraged by the small-scale opportunities springing up for artists at places like the downtown library, where the Music in the Stacks concert series has hosted Michigan artists like Valentiger and the Bridge Street Band at the West Side Branch. It’s a similar story for the Concerts Under the Stars series at the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s planetarium. Antonio Bailey, the marketing and communications manager at Blandford Nature Center, joked that the best bands for their late-summer concert series “don’t charge an arm and a leg” — which usually means they’re local musicians.

But most of those venues, though far more modest than Van Andel Arena, still are the kinds of places that only established local bands can play. Tami VandenBerg, co-owner of The Pyramid Scheme, makes it hard to imagine a wide-eyed 17-year-old playing her first show there.

“As a midsize venue owner, we can’t book a lot of people that haven’t built up a following. We’re just too big,” she said of the 420-person space on Commerce Avenue. “Generally speaking, by the time we book somebody, they have to have some kind of following established. They’ve got to have some kind of draw.”

The breadth of Grand Rapids’ music community eludes a simple description. Hayes Griffin, the station manager at WYCE, Grand Rapids’ community radio station, said that because Grand Rapids is at the “crossroads” of Detroit and Chicago, it shares a little bit of both cities’ local sound. He pointed out the vibrant local hip-hop scene as well as the “very prominent” indie rock community.

But for most people in Grand Rapids’ musical orbit, the scene’s greatest treasure is its camaraderie. Charity Lytle is the bassist for the Bermudas, a Grand Rapids rock trio that debuted at the volunteer-run DAAC when it was one of the best ways to find an audience and a toehold in the local music scene. “(Grand Rapids) still feels small enough,

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY FIONA DICKINSON AND HER BAND/ EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS (RIGHT)

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BENJAMIN HOWELL (ABOVE)

ids music scene without people plugged into the local music.

For Lytle, one of the most encouraging developments is the return of DAAC. She said she is part of a trio of backers buying a building in the Creston neighborhood to help it reopen soon — and bring a longtime gateway to the music community back to Grand Rapids.

“The DAAC gave a spot to kids and teens who needed a place to hang out where there wouldn’t be drugs and alcohol happening — their parents felt OK with them being there,” Lytle said. “I looked at that and I said, ‘Boy, if I had this when I was in northwest Iowa, that would’ve changed my life.’ Music and art give people a way to express themselves and come together in ways that can be harder to do if you’re just out there, trying to find other kids in the mall, through parks — I don’t know how kids do it now.” GR

Top: Sleeping with Sirens performing at Intersection.

Left: Concert Under the Stars

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 39

Best of Grand Rapids C O M P I L E D BY A N D R E A S T R AW

The results of the 2018 Grand Rapids Magazine Best of GR Readers Poll highlight the community’s incredible creativity, diversity and love for all things local.

Appetizers

Brewery

Founders Brewing Co.

HopCat

Brunch

Anna's House

Bakery

Nantucket Baking Company

Burger

Stella's Lounge

Bar/Pub

Butcher Shop

Founders Brewing Co.

Sobie Meats LLC

BBQ

Madcap Coffee Company

Coffeehouse

Two Scotts Barbecue Beer & Wine Merchant

Martha's Vineyard Bloody Mary

Rockwell Republic Breakfast

Dessert

Ice Cream Parlor

ENTERTAINMENT/ EXPERIENCES

Amore Trattoria Italiana

Jersey Junction

Distillery

Twisted Rooster

Festival of the Arts

Doughnuts

Founders Brewing Co.

Outdoor/Deck Seating

Female TV Personality

Food Truck

The Mitten Brewing Co.

Long Road Distillers Marge's Donut Den What The Truck

Mac & Cheese

Pizza

Annual Festival

Rachel Ruiz, WOOD TV 8 Escape Room

Restaurant Service

HopCat

Amore Trattoria Italiana

Grand Rapids Escape Room

French Fries

Golf Course

Long Road Distillers

Spoonlickers

Froyo Shop

Salads

Egypt Valley Country Club

Cupcakes

Happy Hour

Sandwich

White Pine Trail River City Improv

Craft Cocktails

Terra

The Salted Cupcake

Rockwell Republic

Founders Brewing Co.

Date Night Restaurant

Hard Cider

Seafood

Hot Dog

Soup

Anna's House

Amore Trattoria Italiana

Vander Mill Yesterdog

Leo's

Uncle Cheetah's Soup Shop Steak

Butcher's Union Best Brewery

Fou nders Brewing Co.

Sushi

Maru Sushi & Grill Tacos

Donkey Taqueria Tater Tots

Blue Dog Tavern Vegan/Vegetarian Menu

Anna's House

Veggie Burger (Meatless)

Improv Group

Live Music Venue

20 Monroe Live

Male TV Personality

Mike Avery, FOX 17 Meteorologist

Bill Steffen, WOOD TV 8 Museum

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Open Mic

Dr. Grins Comedy Club Park

Millennium Park Performing Arts

Stella's Lounge

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Wine Bar

Place To Go Dancing

Wine List

Professional Sports Team

Reserve Wine & Food Reserve Wine & Food

40 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Hike/Bike Trail

Eve at The B.O.B.

Grand Rapids Griffins

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

FOOD/DRINK

Farmers Market

Fulton Street Farmers Market

Doggie Day Care/Pet Boarding

Whiskers Resort & Pet Spa

Doula/Midwife Services

West Michigan Midwifery Dry Cleaner

Sheldon Cleaners Hair Salon

Design 1 Salon Spa Hotel

JW Marriott Law Firm

Varnum LLP Limousine/Party Bus

Affordable Limousine & Party Bus Mani/Pedi

Design 1 Salon Spa Radio Personalities

Free Beer & Hot Wings, 97.9 WGRD

Radio Station

91.3 WCSG

Tourist Attraction

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Trivia Night

Stella's Lounge TV Station

Comic Book Store

Vault of Midnight Consignment Store

Urban Exchange Farmers Market

Fulton Street Farmers Market Florist Shop

Eastern Floral Furniture Store

Wedding Venue

Grocery Store

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

Eastown Antiques Art Gallery

LaFontsee Galleries Auto Dealership

Fox Motors Bike Shop

Village Bike & Fitness Bookstore

Home Décor Store

Rebel

Credit Union

Residential Real Estate Firm

Plastic Surgeon

Lake Michigan Credit Union

Bank

Day Spa

Mercantile Bank

Retirement Community

Design 1 Salon Spa

Caterer

Porter Hills

Dentist

AppleTree & Gilden Woods

Five Star Real Estate

Tattoo Parlor

Thomas J. Lambert, DDS

Mos Eisleys

Dermatologist

Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse

Yoga Studio

Richard J. Ashack, MD

Best Burger

Stella’s Loun

ge

Jewelry Store

DeVries Jewelers Men's Fashion

A.K. Rikk's

Record Store

Vertigo Music Shoe Store

Mieras Family Shoes Horrocks Market

Car Wash

Thrift Store

Cigar Shop

Women's Fashion

Grand River Cigar

Bradley P. Bengtson, MD

Hardware Store

Schuler Books & Music Breton Auto Wash

Coworking Spaces

Meijer

Rylee's Ace Hardware

Antiques

Auto Repair

Child Care Provider

MVP Sports Clubs

Worklab by Custer

Community Automotive Repair

Garden Center

Horrocks Market

SHOPPING

Family Friends Veterinary Hospital

Martha's Catering

Place to Work Out

Chiropractic Center

iChiro Clinics

Animal Clinic

Talsma Furniture

WOOD TV 8 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

SERVICES

Specialty Grocer

New 2 You

Lee & Birch

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 41

The List

A guide to happenings around greater Grand Rapids

BARS & CLUBS

The city’s nightlife scene includes everything from neighborhood pubs to upscale clubs.

Venues that primarily function as restaurants are found in the Dining List.

Apartment Lounge For four decades, the Apartment has been known for catering to the LGBTQ community but emphasizes all are welcome.

Features include everyday drink specials. 33 Sheldon Ave. NE, 451-0815. apartmentloungegr.com Back Forty Saloon Country music fans will enjoy live music, line dancing and an extensive selection of whiskey, scotch and bourbon. 48 W. Fulton St., 742-4040, thebackfortysaloon.com Billy’s Lounge Eastown hotspot hosts local and regional bands representing all music genres.

1437 Wealthy St. SE, 459-5757, billyslounge.com The B.O.B. See Performance Venues.

Bob’s Sports Bar Opens daily at 7 a.m. and features food, sports and reasonably priced drinks.

Specials every day, including Taco Monday and Burger Tuesday. 725 Michigan St. NE, 774-0512, bobsbar.org Buffalo Traders Lounge Handcrafted cocktails is the mission statement, but it also features internationally crafted beers in bottles and a rotating draft. The Art Deco-inspired theme will transport patrons back in time. 950 E. Fulton St., 591-3540, buffalotraderslounge.com Duke’s Classic bar serves up bar food at reasonable prices. Daily happy hour and frequent new specials. 700 Michigan St. NE, 774-9388, Facebook The Intersection See Performance Venues.

Log Cabin Cocktail Lounge Open since 1938, the Log Cabin brings in customers with a full menu, drink specials, karaoke, beer pong and live music on weekends. 2401 S. Division Ave., 2454394, logcabinbar.com Lumber Baron Bar Warm, upscale bar in the Amway Grand Plaza has a fireplace, leather chairs and a large selection of premium drinks and appetizers. 187 Monroe Ave. NW, 774-2000, amwaygrand.com/dining/lumber-baron-bar 42 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

The Meanwhile Bar Quirky bar features a brick patio in the shape of a mitten, pinball machines and a one-of-a-kind jukebox. “Ridiculous specials” every day until midnight. 1005 Wealthy St. SE, 233-1679, meanwhilebar.com Mixology Just steps inside the JW Marriott, Mixology combines a cosmopolitan vibe with perfectly poured cocktails. Live music Friday and Saturday evenings. 235 Louis Campau St. NW, 242-1448, ilovethejw/dining/mixology Mulligan’s Pub Eastown’s Irish-style pub draws college students, long-time regulars and neighborhood residents who enjoy darts, pool and live music on weekends. 1518 Wealthy St. SE, 451-0775, mulliganspubgr Pickwick Tavern Neighborhood bar serves East Hills with quality well liquors and basic happy hours. The bar thrives on friendly bartenders and old-school patrons who like to hang out. Cash only.

970 Cherry St. SE, 774-9647 The Pyramid Scheme See Performance Venues.

Quinn & Tuite’s Irish Pub Neighborhood hangout offering Irish whiskies and beers, along with Taco Thursdays, live music, open mic nights, pool and darts. 1535 Plainfield Ave. NE, 363-8380, quinnandtuites.com River Rock at the Grand River Hotel Live music Friday and Saturday and jazz brunch Sunday.

270 Ann St. NW, 363-9001, thegrandriverhotel.com Rocky’s Bar & Grill Dance floor with DJs and live music, open mic and upstairs bar area that hosts private parties. 633 Ottawa Ave. NW, 356-2346, rockysbargr.com Rumors Night Club High-energy gay bar and dance club with drag shows on Sundays. 69 S. Division Ave., 454-8720, rumorsnightclub.net SideBar Casual, comfortable handcrafted cocktail bar that also features a rotating selection of beer and wine. 80 Ottawa Ave. NW, 551-9195, sidebargr.com Steel Cat Bar Offers GR’s first frost rail bar, chilling beer (and cocktails) to a precise 32 degrees; happy hours and local music groups with a wide-range of sounds nightly. Craft cocktails and fun in the snow with Cat bulldozers. 640 Bridge St. NW, 200-4449, steelcatbar.com

Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Frequent performances by national musicians, Comedy Tuesdays, and food and drink specials on non-show nights.

760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook Twisted Bull Saloon Country bar with live music Friday and Saturday, mechanical bull, karaoke, dancing, pool, pong, darts and keno. Menu includes burgers and chicken. 3230 Eastern Ave. SE, 245-0531, twistedbull.net

BREWERIES Atwater Brewery, 201 Michigan St. NW (The Rowe), 649-3020, atwaterbeer.com Big Boiler Brewing, 318 E. Main St. Lowell, (616) 987-3155, bigboilerbrewing.com The B.O.B.’s Brewery, 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebobsbrewery.thebob.com Brass Ring Brewing, 2404 Eastern Ave. SE, 460-1587, brassringbrewing.com Brewery Vivant, 925 Cherry St. SE, 719-1604, breweryvivant.com Broad Leaf, 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, broadleafbeer.com Cedar Springs Brewing Co., 95 N. Main, Cedar Springs, 696-2337, csbrew.com Cellar Brewing Co., 133 E. Division St., Sparta, 383-1234, cellarbrewingco.com City Built Brewing Co., 820 Monroe Ave. NW, 805-5755, citybuiltbrewing.com Cranker’s Restaurant & Brewery, 454 68th St. SW, Cutlerville, 827-1919, crankersbrewery.com Creston Brewery, 1504 Plainfield Ave. NE, 805-4523 crestonbrewery.com East West Brewing Company, 1400 Lake Dr. SE, 288-5250, eastwestbrewingcompany.com E.B. Coffee and Pub, 8980 N. Rogers Court, Caledonia, 891-7700, ebcoffeepub.com Elk Brewing Co., 700 Wealthy St. SE, 238-5227, and 400 Dodge St. Comstock Park, (616) 214-8172 elkbrewing.com Founders Brewing Co., 235 Grandville Ave. SW, 776-1195, foundersbrewing.com Grand Rapids Brewing Co., 1 Ionia Ave. SW, 458-7000, grbrewingcompany.com Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery, 452 Ada Dr. SE, Ada, 920-7398, gravelbottom.com

Greyline Brewing Co., 1727 Alpine Ave. NW, greylinebrewing.com Harmony Brewing Co., 1551 Lake Dr. SE, 233-0063, harmonybeer.com Harmony Hall, 401 Stocking Ave. NW, 233-9186, harmonybeer.com/harmony-hall Jaden James Brewery, 4665 Broadmoor Ave. SE, 656-4665, jadenjamesbrewery.com Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria & Brewery, 428 Bridge St. NW, 419-4676, jollypumpkin.com Kitzingen Brewery, 1760 44th St. SW, 805-5077, kitzingen-brewery.com The Knickerbocker, 417 Bridge St. NW, 345-5642, newhollandbrew.com/theknickerbocker New Union Brewery, 400 W. Main St. Lowell, (616) 319-7171, newunionbrewery.com The Mitten Brewing Co., 527 Leonard St. NW, 608-5612, mittenbrewing.com Osgood Brewing, 4051 Chicago Dr. SW, Grandville, 432-3881, osgoodbrewing.com Perrin Brewing Co., 5910 Comstock Park Dr. NW, Comstock Park, 551-1957, perrinbrewing.com Pike 51 Brewery, 3768 Chicago Dr., Hudsonville, 662-4589, pike51.com Railtown Brewing Co., 3595 68th St. SE, Dutton, 881-2364, railtownbrewing.com Rockford Brewing Co., 12 E. Bridge St., Rockford, 951-4677, rockfordbrewing.com Schmohz Brewing Co., 2600 Patterson Ave. SE, 949-0860, schmohz.com Speciation Artisan Ales, 3721 Laramie Dr. NE, Comstock Park, speciationartisanales.com Thornapple Brewing Co., 6262 28th St. SE, 288-6907, thornapplebrewing.com Trail Point Brewing Co., 6035 Lake Michigan Dr., Allendale, 895-2739, trailpointbrewing.com TwoGuys Brewing, 2356 Porter St. SW, Wyoming, (616) 552-9690, Facebook Vander Mill Grand Rapids, 505 Ball Ave. NE, 259-8828, vandermill.com White Flame Brewing Co., 5234 36th Ave., Hudsonville, 209-5098, whiteflamebrewing.com

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

LAKESHORE BREWERIES Big Hart Brewing Co., 4086 W. Polk Rd., Hart, (231) 301-8226, bighartbrewing.com Big Lake Brewing Co., 13 W. Seventh St., Holland, (616) 796-8888, biglakebrewing.com Fetch Brewing Co., 100 W. Colby St., Whitehall, (231) 292-1048, fetchbrewing.com Grand Armory Brewing Co., 17 S. 2nd St., Grand Haven, (616) 414-7822, grandarmorybrewing.com New Holland Brewing Co. Pub on 8th, 66 E. Eighth St., Holland, (616) 355-6422, newhollandbrew.com/pub-on-8th Odd Side Ales, 41 Washington Ave., Suite 160, Grand Haven, (616) 935-7326, oddsideales.com Old Boys’ Brewhouse, 971 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake, (616) 850-9950, oldboysbrewhouse.com

Ah-Nab-Awen Park

Our Brewing Co., 76 E. Eighth St., Holland, (616) 994-8417, ourbrewingcompany.com Pigeon Hill Brewing Co., 500 W. Western Ave., Suite 1, Muskegon, (231) 375-5184, pigeonhillbrew.com Saugatuck Brewing Co., 2948 Blue Star Hwy., Douglas, (269) 857-7222, saugatuckbrewing.com Tripelroot, 146 E. Main Ave., Zeeland, (616) 953-0050, tripelroot.com Unruly Brewing Co., 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon, (231) 288-1068, unrulybrewing.com

CIDERIES (HARD CIDER) Farmhaus Cider Co., 5025 Stanton Ave., Hudsonville, 920-1867, farmhauscider.com Ridge Cider Co., 351 W. 136th St., Grant, (231) 674-2040, ridgecider.com Robinette’s Apple Haus, 3142 Four Mile Rd. NE, 361-5567, robinettes.com The Peoples Cider Co., 539 Leonard St. NW, 322-7805, thepeoplescider.com Vander Mill Ciders, 505 Ball Ave. NE, 2598828; 14921 Cleveland St., Spring Lake, (616) 8424337, vandermill.com Virtue Cider, 2170 62nd St., Fennville, (269) 722-3232, virtuecider.com

DISTILLERIES Bier Distillery, 5295 W. River Dr., NE, Suite 100, 888-9746, bierdistillery.com Coppercraft Distillery, 184 120th Ave., Holland and 340 Water St. Saugatuck, (616) 796-8274, coppercraftdistillery.com Gray Skies Distillery, 700 Ottawa Ave. NW, 893-3305, grayskiesdistillery.com Long Road Distillers, 537 Leonard St. NW, 228-4924 longroaddistillers.com

GRAND RAPIDS CITY PARKS

Grand Rapids enjoys 74-city operated parks. That’s more than 1,600 acres of land for public enjoyment.

These parks offer amenities from baseball diamonds and playgrounds to picnic areas and swimming pools.

Find out more: (616) 4563696, grcity.us/parks Aberdeen Elementary Amenities: baseball, basketball, picnicking, playground, soccer. 928 Aberdeen St. NE Aberdeen Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, playground, picnicking, restrooms, soccer, tennis, water playground. Eastern Avenue at Evelyn Street NE Ah-Nab-Awen Park Amenities: picnicking, restrooms. 220 Front Ave. NW Alexander Park Amenities: picnicking, playground. 614 Alexander St. SE Alger Middle School Amenities: baseball, biking, hiking, track, picnicking, playground, restrooms, soccer, tennis, water playground. 921 Alger St. SE Aman Park Amenities: cross-country skiing, hiking, natural area, picnicking. 0-1859 Lake Michigan Dr. NW Baja Park: Amenities: none. 45 John Ball Park Dr. NW. Baldwin Park: Amenities: none. 600 E. Fulton St. Ball Perkins Park Park Amenities: community garden, natural area, surface path. South Terrace Lane and Perkins Avenue NE JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 43

Belknap Park Amenities: baseball, restrooms, sledding hill, tennis. 30 Coldbrook St. NE Bike Park Amenities: mountain biking, natural area. 570 Kirtland St. SW Briggs Park Amenities: basketball, playground, picnicking, restrooms, swimming pool, tennis.

350 Knapp St. NE Burton Woods Amenities: biking, hiking, natural area. 2259 Everest Ave. SE Butterworth Park Amenities: biking, hiking.

397 Garfield Ave. SW Calder Plaza Amenities: picnicking.

300 Monroe Ave. NW Cambridge Park Amenities: baseball, picnicking, soccer. 1444 Gladstone Dr. SE Camelot Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground. 2230 Rowland Ave. SE Campau Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground, restrooms, water playground. 50 Antoine St. SW Canal Park Amenities: biking, hiking, picnicking, playground, restrooms. 941 Monroe Ave. NW along the Grand River Caulfield Park Amenities: playground.

1121 Caulfield Ave. SW Cherry Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground, restrooms, tennis, water playground.

725 Cherry St. SE Cheseboro Park Amenities: playground.

951 Merrit St. SE Clemente Park Amenities: picnicking, restrooms, skate park, soccer. 546 Rumsey St. SW Coit Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, picnicking, playground, sledding hill. 700 Coit Ave. NE Crescent Park Amenities: picnicking.

301 Bostwick Ave. NE Dickinson Buffer Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground. 1635 Willard Ave. SE Douglas Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground. 640 Douglas St. NW Eastern Park Amenities: basketball, biking, hiking, picnicking, playground. 820 Eastern Ave. NE Fish Ladder Park: Amenities: Fish Ladder sculpture, fishing, fish watching, picnicking, riverfront walkway, restrooms. 506 Front Ave. NW Foster Park Amenities: sculptures. 350 State St. SE Fourth Street Woods Park Amenities: natural area. 1341 Fourth St. NW Fuller Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground, restrooms, tennis, water playground.

300 Fuller Ave. NE Garfield Park Amenities: basketball, disc golf, picnicking, playground, restrooms, tennis, volleyball. 2111 Madison Ave. SE Gerald Ford Academic Center Amenities: baseball, basketball, fitness center, playground, tennis, water playground. 851 Madison Ave. SE Harrison Park School Amenities: baseball, basketball, playground, restrooms, tennis.

1440 Davis Ave. NW

44 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Heartside Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground, water playground.

301 Ionia Ave. SE Heritage Hill Park Amenities: none.

501 Paris Ave. SE Highland Park Amenities: disc golf, picnicking, playground, restrooms, soccer, water playground.

700 College Ave. NE Hillcrest Park Amenities: baseball, dog park, soccer. 1415 Lyon St. NE Hosken Park Amenities: none. 1000 Lake Dr. SE Huff Park Amenities: baseball, biking, crosscountry skiing, hiking, natural area, picnicking, playground, restrooms. 2399 Ball Ave. NE Joe Taylor Park Amenities: playground, picnicking, restrooms, water playground.

1030 Bemis St. SE John Ball Park Amenities: picnicking, playground, tennis courts. 1300 W. Fulton St. Ken-O-Sha/Plaster Creek Trail Amenities: basketball, natural area, biking, hiking, picnicking, playground. 1353 Van Auken SE Kensington Park Amenities: picnicking, soccer. 896 Hall St. SW Lexington Park Amenities: none.

90 Lexington Ave. NW Lincoln Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground, water playground. 1120 Bridge St. NW Lookout Park Amenities: picnicking, scenic overlook. 801 Fairview Ave. NE Lyon Square Amenities: none. 296 Lyon St. NW MacKay-Jaycee’s Park Amenities: baseball, picnicking, restrooms, soccer, tennis.

2531 Kalamazoo Ave. SE Madison Square Park Amenities: none.

1400 Madison Ave. SE Martin Luther King Jr. Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, fitness center, picnicking, playground, restrooms, swimming pool, tennis.

900 Fuller Ave. SE Mary Waters Park Amenities: basketball, picnicking, playground, restrooms, water playground, sledding hill. 1042 Lafayette Ave. NE Midtown Green Amenities: none.

735 Fountain St. NE Monument Park Amenities: none. 1 Fulton St. NE Mooney Park Amenities: picnicking, playground.

314 Logan St. SE Mulick Park Amenities: baseball, picnicking, playground, restrooms, sledding hill, tennis, water playground. 1761 Rosewood Ave. SE Nagold Park Amenities: none. 945 Nagold St. NW North Park School Amenities: baseball, basketball, playground, restrooms, soccer, tennis.

3375 Cheney Ave. NE Oakdale Gardens Amenities: basketball, community garden, picnicking, playground.

902 Evergreen St. SE Oakes Street Park Amenities: none.

67 Ionia Ave SW

Ottawa Hills School Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, playground, restrooms, soccer, tennis. 2055 Rosewood SE Oxford Place Amenities: natural area.

2051 Eastcastle Dr. SE Paris Park Amenities: none. 942 N. Ottillia St. SE Pekich Park Amenities: none. 2 Cherry St. SW Plaster Creek Family Park Amenities: baseball, picnicking, playground, restrooms, bike trail.

2512 Buchanan Ave. SW Pleasant Park Amenities: playground, sledding hill. 400 Pleasant St. SE Provin Trails Park Amenities: cross-country skiing, hiking, biking, natural area, restrooms.

Four Mile Road and Bird Avenue NE Rasberry Field Amenities: baseball.

1010 Sheldon Ave. SE Reservoir Park Amenities: artwork, picnicking.

900 Fairview Ave. NE Richmond Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, natural area, picnicking, playground, restrooms, sledding hill, swimming pool, tennis. 1101 Richmond St. NW Riverside Park Amenities: baseball, biking, disc golf, hiking, picnicking, playground, restrooms, soccer. 2001 Monroe Ave. NE Riverview Park Amenities: none. 676 Front St. NW Riverwalk Trails Amenities: biking, hiking.

Fulton to Interurban Bridge Roosevelt Park Amenities: picnicking, playground, restrooms, soccer, water playground. 739 Van Raalte Dr. SW Rosa Parks Circle Amenities: amphitheater, ice rink, picnicking, restrooms. 155 Monroe Center NW Seymour Park Amenities: none. 942 Ottillia St. SE Sixth Street Bridge Park Amenities: biking, hiking, picnicking, restrooms. 647 Monroe Ave. NW along the Grand River Southeast Academic Amenities: playground.

1250 Sigsbee St. SE Stocking School Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, playground. 863 Seventh St. NW Sullivan (Valley) Field Amenities: baseball, restrooms. 700 Valley Ave. NW Sundial Park Amenities: none. 120 College Ave. SE Sweet Street Amenities: picnicking, playground.

475 Sweet St. NE Veterans Memorial Park Amenities: historic monuments. 101 E. Fulton St. NE Westown Commons Park Amenities: basketball, playground, skatepark. 752 Watson St. SW Wilcox Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, picnicking, playground, restrooms, soccer, tennis, water playground. 100 Youell Ave. SE

KENT COUNTY PARKS

The Kent County parks system includes 42 parks, green spaces and trails encompassing more than 7,000 acres. The parks are open 7 a.m. to sunset, but restrooms are closed Nov. 1-April 30. Beer and wine are allowed during Memorial Day weekend and June 15-Oct. 31. (616) 6327275, kentcountyparks.org 12 Mile Conservation Area Access to Fred Meijer White Pine State Trail. Amenities: biking, fishing. 4400 12 Mile Rd. NE, Rockford Brewer Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, cricket pitch, disc golf, hiking, open shelter house, picnicking, playground, restrooms, soccer, tennis, volleyball. 399 84th St. SW, Byron Center Caledonia Lakeside Park View of Lake Emmons. Amenities: baseball, fishing, hiking, open and enclosed shelter house, picnicking, playground, restrooms. 370 Lake St. SE, Caledonia Chief Hazy Cloud Park Amenities: fishing, picnicking, restrooms, water trail access point.

150 Pettis Ave. NE, Ada Coldwater River Park Amenities: fishing, picnicking, restrooms, water trail access point.

9901 Morse Lake Ave. SE, Alto Cooper Creek Park Adjacent to Spencer Forest. Amenities: equestrian trails, fishing, nature trails. 13807 17 Mile Rd. NE, Gowen Creekside Park Amenities: baseball, exercise stations, hiking, open shelter house, picnicking, playgrounds, restrooms, trailhead for the Fred Meijer M-6 Trail. 1035 68th St. SE, Dutton Douglas Walker Park Kent Trails access point.

Amenities: baseball, biking, hiking, picnicking, playground, restrooms, shelter house, soccer, softball. 1195 84th St., Byron Center Dutton Shadyside Park Amenities: baseball, open shelter house, picnicking, playground, restrooms, tennis. 7343 Hammond Ave. SE, Dutton Dwight Lydell Park Amenities: baseball, fishing, hiking, open shelter house, picnicking, playground, paved trails, restrooms. 4040 Leland Ave. NW, Comstock Park Fallasburg Park Covered bridge across Flat River. Amenities: baseball, disc golf, fishing, hiking, open and enclosed shelter houses, picnicking, playground, restrooms, water trail access point.

1124 Fallasburg Rd., Lowell Fisk Knob Highest point in the county. Amenities: picnicking. 17533 Algoma Ave. NE, Cedar Springs Gordon Park Trailhead to Fred Meijer White Pine State Trail. Amenities: biking, hiking, picnicking, playground, restrooms. 17150 Northland Dr. NE, Sand Lake

Johnson Park Grand River boat access. Amenities: baseball, biking, disc golf, exercise stations, fishing, hiking, open and enclosed shelter houses, picnicking, playground, restrooms, water trail access point. 2600 Wilson Ave. SW, Walker Kent Trails 15-mile, nonmotorized, paved trail from Millennium Park to Byron Center. Four main trailheads: Johnson Park, Millennium Park, Douglas Walker Park and Byron Center at 84th Street.

Amenities: biking, cross-country skiing, hiking.

Knapp Valley Forest Park Amenities: hiking.

4255 Knapp Valley Rd. NE, Grand Rapids Township Lamoreaux (Donald J.) Park Amenities: baseball, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, nature trails, picnicking. 4585 Coit Ave. NE, Grand Rapids Lamoreaux Memorial Park Amenities: biking, hiking. 3500 West River Dr. NE, Comstock Park Lepard Preserve: Amenities: cross-country skiing, hiking, nature trails. 6030 76th St. SE, Caledonia Long Lake Park Amenities: beach house, fishing, open and enclosed shelter houses, nonmotorized boating, picnicking, playground, restrooms, swimming. 13747 Krauskopf Rd. NE, Sparta Luton Park Amenities: bird watching, crosscountry skiing, hiking, mountain biking, restrooms, snow shoeing, trail running. 5950 10 Mile Rd. NE, Rockford M-6 Trail Connects Thornapple Trail to Kent Trails.

Amenities: biking, cross-country skiing, hiking.

Millennium Park 1,400-acre urban park in Grand Rapids, Grandville, Walker and Wyoming.

Includes 6-acre beach and splash pad. Amenities: basketball, beach house, biking, boat rental, crosscountry skiing, fishing, hiking, open shelter house, picnicking, playground, restrooms, swimming, volleyball. 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker Myers Lake Park Amenities: beach house, fishing, open shelter house, picnicking, playground, restrooms, swimming. 7350 Hessler Dr. NE, Rockford Palmer Park Amenities: baseball, biking, crosscountry skiing, fishing, hiking, nature trails, open shelter houses, picnicking, playground, restrooms. 1275 52nd St. SW, Wyoming. Also includes 18-hole public Kaufman Golf Course, 4807 Clyde Park Ave. SW Paris Park Amenities: biking, cross-country skiing, hiking, nature trails. 3213 60th St. SE, Kentwood Pickerel Lake Park (Frederik Meijer Nature Preserve) Bird watching along boardwalk and trail system. Amenities: cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, nature trails, restrooms. 6001 Ramsdell Rd. NE, Cannonsburg Pioneer Trail (Fred Meijer): Links Musketawa Trail and Fred Meijer White Pine State Trail.

Amenities: biking, cross-country skiing, hiking.

Provin Trails Park Amenities: crosscountry skiing, hiking, nature trails, restrooms.

2900 4 Mile Rd. NE Rogue River Park Trailhead for Fred Meijer White Pine State Trail. Amenities: baseball, biking, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, nature trails, open shelter house, picnicking, playground, restrooms, tennis. 6300 Belshire Ave., Belmont

Ruehs Park Borders Thornapple River. Amenities: fishing, picnicking, playground, restrooms, water trail access point. 7602 68th St. SE, Alaska Seidman Park Amenities: biking, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, nature trails, restrooms.

8155 Conservation Rd. NE, Ada Spencer Forest Adjacent to Cooper Creek Park.

Amenities: equestrian trails. 13807 17 Mile Rd., Gowen Thornapple Trail (The Paul Henry) 42-mile trail under construction from Grand Rapids to Vermontville. Amenities: biking, cross-county skiing, hiking.

Townsend Park Amenities: baseball, biking, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, nature trails, open and enclosed shelter houses, picnicking, playground, restrooms. 8280 6 Mile Rd. NE, Cannonsburg Wabasis Lake Park Amenities: baseball, basketball, beach house, campground, fishing, hiking, nature trails, open and enclosed shelter houses, picnicking, playground, restrooms, swimming, volleyball. 11220 Springhill Dr., Greenville Wahlfield Park Amenities: cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking, nature trails, open shelter house, picnicking, playground, restrooms.

6811 Alpine Ave. NW, Alpine Township White Pine Park Amenities: hiking.

13590 Lincoln Lake Ave. NE, Gowen

DANCE COMPANIES Creative Arts Repertoire Ensemble Nonprofit organization founded in 1992 nurtures dancers age 4 through adult by providing performance opportunities, knowledge of technical staging and a positive experience. CARE hosts performances at East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center that introduce families to ballet with condensed versions of classic ballets. 2661 29th St. SE, Suite I, 464-3682. careballet.org Dance In The Annex Formed in 2009, this modern dance collective performs at local and statewide arts events. DITA also hosts master classes with guest artists and creates live dancefilm productions. danceintheannex.com Grand Rapids Ballet Michigan’s only professional ballet company performs in DeVos Performance Hall and in its 300-seat Peter Martin Wege Theatre.

Performances range from classic to contemporary. The company’s state-of-the-art facility, the Meijer-Royce Center for Dance, houses a school for ballet training and a Summer Intensive Program. The school’s Junior Company presents multiple performances annually.

Outreach to community schools is accomplished with the Dance Immersion and Escape to the Ballet programs. 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW, 454-4771. grballet.com Michigan Ballet Academy Formed in 2011, the nonprofit offers ballet training that can prepare students for professional careers, as well as two fulllength performances each year. The academy also offers classes for children beginning at age 3. 1595 Galbraith Ave. SE, 710-1666. michiganballet.org JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 45

West Michigan Youth Ballet Founded in 2007, this nonprofit gives dancers ages 6-18 the chance to work with professional choreographers and perform in full-length ballets. It offers one or two performances per year and a three-day summer intensive program for ages 8-18. 6086 E. Fulton St., Ada, 682-4853. wmyb.org

DANCE SOCIETIES Grand Rapids Original Swing Society Holds weekly family-friendly lessons/dances in swing dancing at various locations, including downtown outdoor spaces during warm weather, as well as frequent dance events throughout the year. grandrapidsoriginalswingsociety.com Grand River Folk Arts Society Hosts monthly dances and instruction events in contra dancing. sites.google.com/site/grfolkarts

FAIRS & FESTIVALS July National Cherry Festival June 29-July 6, Traverse City. cherryfestival.org Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival July 3-7, W.K. Kellogg Airport, Battle Creek. bcballoons.com Traverse City Film Festival July 3-Aug. 4, Traverse City. traversecityfilmfest.org

Lakeshore Art Festival July 5-6, Downtown Muskegon. lakeshoreartfestival.org Riverwalk Festival July 11-13, Lowell. riverwalkfestival.org Ionia Free Fair July 11-20, Ionia Fairgrounds. ioniafreefair.com Sparta Town & Country Days July 17-20, Sparta. spartachamber.com National Baby Food Festival July 17-20, Fremont. babyfoodfestival.com Grand Rapids Balloon Festival July 18, Wilcox Park. grandrapidsballoonfestival.com Muskegon Bike Time July 18-21, Muskegon. muskegonbiketime.com Muskegon County Fair July 22-27, Muskegon County Fairgrounds, Muskegon. muskegonfair grounds.com Ottawa County Fair July 22-27, Ottawa County Fairgrounds, Holland. ottawacountyfair.com Byron Days Festival July 25-28, Byron Center. byrondaysfestival.com Coast Guard Festival July 26-Aug. 4, Grand Haven. coastguardfest.org

August Kent County Youth Fair Aug. 5-10, Kent County Fairgrounds, Lowell. kcyf.org Unity Christian Music Festival Aug. 7-10, Heritage Landing, Muskegon. unitymusicfestival.com Cowpie Music Festival Aug. 8-10, Shagbark Farm, Caledonia. cowpiemusicfestival.com

Aerial view of ArtPrize

National Blueberry Festival Aug. 8-11, South Haven. blueberryfestival.com Coopersville Car Show & Summerfest Aug. 9-10, Downtown Coopersville. coopersvillecarshow.com Michigan Fiber Festival Aug. 14-18, Allegan County Fairgrounds. michiganfiberfestival.info Danish Festival Aug. 15-18, Greenville. danishfestival.org Yassou! Greek Cultural Festival Aug. 16-18, Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Grand Rapids. grgreekfest.com GRandJazzFest Aug. 17-18, Rosa Parks Circle. grandjazzfest.org Shoreline Jazz Festival Aug. 22-25, Muskegon. shorelinejazzfestival.com 28th Street Metro Cruise Aug. 23-24, Grand Rapids. 28thstreetmetrocruise.com Polish Festival Aug. 23-25, Rosa Parks Circle. polishheritagesociety.com Burning Foot Beer Festival Aug. 24, Muskegon. burningfoot.beer Michigan State Fair Aug. 29-Sept. 2, Novi. michiganstatefairllc.com

September Allegan County Fair Sept. 6-14, Allegan. allegancountyfair.com Michigan Irish Music Festival Sept. 12-15, Heritage Landing, Muskegon. michiganirish.org Grand Haven Salmon Fest Sept. 13-14, Grand Haven. ghsalmonfest.com Fallasburg Arts Festival Sept. 14-15, Fallasburg Park, north of Lowell. lowellartsmi.org Tulipanes Latino Art & Film Festival Sept. 19-22, Holland. laup.org Oktoberfest Grand Rapids Sept. 27-28, John Ball Park, Grand Rapids. oktoberfestgr.com Rockford Harvest Festival Sept. 27-29, Rockford. rockfordmichamber.com Eastown Street Fair (Date TBD), Lake Drive at Wealthy Street, Grand Rapids. eastown.org

Red Flannel Festival Oct. 4-5, Cedar Springs. redflannelfestival.org Pulaski Days Oct. 4-6, downtown Grand Rapids. pulaskidays.org

November/December Christmas Through Lowell Nov. 15-17, Lowell. discoverlowell.org International Wine, Beer & Food Festival Nov. 21-23, Grand Rapids. showspan.com/grw Dutch Winterfest Nov.-Jan., Holland. holland.org Ethnic Heritage Festival (Date TBD), Grand Rapids Public Museum. grmuseum.org

46 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

October

January 2020 Grand Haven Winterfest (Date TBD), Grand Haven. winterfestmi.org Muskegon Snowfest (Date TBD), Muskegon. visitmuskegon.org/events/snowfest

February 2020 Outhouse 500 (Date TBD), Coopersville. coopersvillefarmmuseum.org Winter Beer Festival Feb. 21-22, Fifth Third Ballpark, Grand Rapids. michiganbrewersguild.org

March 2020 Chilly, Blues & Brews (East) (Date TBD), Grand Rapids. thebob.com LaughFest (Date TBD), Grand Rapids. laughfestgr.org Maple Sugar Time (Date TBD), DeGraaf Nature Center, Holland. degraaf.org Sugarbush Festival (Date TBD), Blandford Nature Center, Grand Rapids. blandfordnaturecenter.org

April 2020 Grub and Brew Fest (Date TBD), Grand Haven. grandhavenchamber.org/grub-brew-fest

May 2020 Fiesta! (Date TBD), Civic Center, Holland. laup.org Great Lakes Kite Festival (Date TBD), Grand Haven State Park. mackite.com Tulip Time Festival (Date TBD), Holland. tuliptime.com

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

June 2020 Berlin Fair (Date TBD), Marne. berlinfair.org Eastown Bizarre Bazaar (Date TBD), Lake Drive at Wealthy. eastowngr.com Feast of the Strawberry Moon (Date TBD), Harbor Island, Grand Haven. visitgrandhaven.com Festival of the Arts (Date TBD), Grand Rapids. festivalgr.org Founders Fest (Date TBD), Grandville Avenue, Grand Rapids. foundersbrewing.com Grand Haven Art Festival (Date TBD), Grand Haven. grandhavenchamber.org Grand Rapids Pride Festival (Date TBD), Grand Rapids. grpride.org JuneGrass Bluegrass Festival (Date TBD), Kent County Fairgrounds, Lowell. wmbma.org Local First Street Party (Date TBD), Grand Rapids. localfirst.com Reeds Lake Art Festival (Date TBD), East Grand Rapids. eastgr.org Spring Lake Heritage Fest (Date TBD), Spring Lake. slheritagefestival.com West Michigan Chalk Art Festival (Date TBD), Byron Center. wmcaf.com

FARMERS MARKETS

Buying local and eating healthy, fresh foods is made easier by the many farmers markets in the area.

For more information on community farmers markets and markets on farms throughout West Michigan, visit westmichiganfarmmarkets.org.

Ada Farmers Market The Community Church, 7239 Thornapple River Dr.; Tues., 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., mid-June to late Oct. adafarmersmarket.com Byron Center Farmers Market Tanger Outlets, 350 84th St. SW; Sat., 9 a.m.-2 p.m., late May to Oct. facebook.com/byroncenterfarmersmarket Byron Center: Metro Health Farmers Market Metro Health Village, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming; Thursday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May to early Oct. metrohealth.net/livehealthy/ farm-market Fulton Street Farmers Market 1147 E. Fulton St.; Wed., Fri. and Sat., 8 a.m.-2 p.m., May to Oct., and Sat. 10-1, Jan. to April. Summer Nights at the Market, Tues., 5-8 p.m., July 9-Aug. 27, and Artisan Market Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m., June to late Sept. fultonstreetmarket.org Grandville Farmers Market Parking lot north of Grandville Library, 4055 Maple St. SW; Tues., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., June to Oct. cityofgrandville.com GVSU Farmers Market 1 Campus Dr., Allendale, Parking Lot G; Wednesday, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m., June to mid-Oct. gvsu.edu/farmersmarket Kentwood Farmers Market Kentwood Branch Library, 4950 Breton Rd. SE; Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., June to Oct. kentwood.us/farmers_market.php Rockford Farmers Market Downtown Rockford, South Squires St. parking lot off Main St.; Sat., 8 a.m.-1 p.m., May to Oct. rockfordmichamber.com/ event/farm-market Southeast Area Farmers Market Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 900 Fuller Ave. SE or LINC Lot, 1167 Madison SE; See website for specific dates & location; Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m., mid-July to mid-Nov. oktjustice.org/farmers-market Terra Square Farmers Market 3380 Chicago Dr., Hudonsville; Wed. and the last Sat. of the month, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., June to Sept. terrasquare. com/farmers-market

LAKESHORE MARKETS Grand Haven Farmers Market Chinook Pier, Harbor Drive at First Street; Sat., 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (beginning May), and Wed., June to Oct. grandhavenchamber.org/farmers-markets

Holland Farmers Market 150 W. Eighth St. Holland; Wed. and Sat., 8 a.m.-3 p.m., May to Dec. Monday Night Market, 5-8 p.m., June to Aug. hollandfarmersmarket.com Montague Farmers Market 283 Church St.; Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., June to Oct., and Wednesday July to Sept. cityofmontague.org Muskegon Farmers Market 242 W. Western Ave.; Tue., Thu. and Sat., 8 a.m.-2 p.m., May to Nov., and Winter Market, Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. to April. muskegonfarmersmarket.com Saugatuck Center for the Arts Farmers Market 400 Culver St.; Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., late May to late Sept. sc4a.org/farmers-market Spring Lake Farm & Garden Market Harvest Bible Chapel parking lot, Church St.; Thurs., 9 a.m-2 p.m., June to mid-Oct. grandhavenchamber.org/farmers-market

HIGHER EDUCATION Aquinas College Rooted in the Catholic Dominican tradition, Aquinas offers a liberal arts curriculum with a global perspective. It emphasizes career preparation focused on leadership and service to others. 1700 E. Fulton St., 632-8900. aquinas.edu Calvin College Since 1876, Calvin’s liberal arts approach has been designed to prepare students with a calling to be God’s agents in the world.

It is an educational institution of the Christian Reformed Church and one of the largest Christian colleges in the country. 3201 Burton St. SE, 526-6000. calvin.edu Central Michigan University Established in 1892 with its main campus in Mount Pleasant, CMU is one of the nation’s 100 largest public universities offering online classes, center-based classes and a combination of the two at more than 50 locations throughout North America. 1633 East Beltline Ave. NE, 361-4160. cmich.edu Cornerstone University Established in 1941, Cornerstone is a “Christ-centered university with a passion for global influence through the transforming power of the gospel.” 1001 East Beltline Ave. NE, 949-5300. cornerstone.edu Davenport University Davenport specializes in business, technology and health professions, serving approximately 7,000 students through its campus in Caledonia Township, plus other locations in Michigan and online. W.A. Lettinga campus, 6191 Kraft Ave. SE, 698-7111. davenport.edu Ferris State University With its main campus in Big Rapids, FSU Grand Rapids offers a mix of traditional and nontraditional campus features and dozens of programs. 151 Fountain St. NE, 451-4777. ferris.edu/grandrapids Grace Christian University Grace Christian University’s aim is “graduating godly individuals prepared to serve Christ in church and society” with more than 20 programs from business administration to biblical studies. 1011 Aldon St. SW, Wyoming, 538-2330. gracechristian.edu JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 47

Grand Rapids Community College Founded in 1914, GRCC offers coursework in more than 100 fields, including certificate programs and associate degrees. Noncredit instructional opportunities are available. GRCC offers workforce training in its Michigan Technical Education Centers (M-TECs).

143 Bostwick Ave. NE, 234-4000. grcc.edu Grand Valley State University This fouryear public university provides a liberal arts education and offers more than 120 areas of study between its suburban Allendale campus and campuses in Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon and Traverse City. Among others, the downtown Grand Rapids’ facilities include the Cook DeVos Center for Health Sciences, which houses the Kirkhof College of Nursing and College of Health Professions, and the William Seidman Center, which houses the Seidman College of Business.

1 Campus Drive, Allendale, 331-5000. gvsu.edu Kendall College of Art & Design of Ferris State University Kendall prepares students for leadership in visual arts, design, art history and art education. Its innovative, collaborative education fosters intellectual growth and individual creativity, and promotes ethical and civic responsibilities of artists and designers. 17 Fountain St. NW, 451-2787. kcad.edu Kuyper College This Christian college focuses on training students for ministry and service in a number of fields. A Christian Reformed worldview is integrated into its academic curriculum. 3333 East Beltline Ave. NE, 222-3000. kuyper.edu MSU College of Human Medicine The Secchia Center, headquarters for the College of Human Medicine, opened in 2010 in downtown Grand Rapids, allowing for an expansion of MSU’s medical school. 15 Michigan St. NE, Suite 450, 233-1678. humanmedicine.msu.edu Northwood University With the main campus in Midland, this private business school has 22 locations throughout the United States. 515 Michigan St. NE, Suite 100, 363-2600. northwood.edu Spring Arbor University This four-year, evangelical Christian university, whose main campus is in Spring Arbor, offers associate, undergrad and graduate degrees at more than a dozen regional sites. The school is affiliated with the Free Methodist Church of North America. 2620 Horizon Drive SE, Suite 200, 974-0671. arbor.edu Western Michigan University Two of WMU’s eight regional locations are in Grand Rapids, offering graduate-level courses, with night and weekend classes, and day classes during the summer. 200 Ionia Ave. SW, 771-4100; 2333 East Beltline Ave. SE, 771-9470. wmich.edu/grandrapids Western Michigan University Cooley Law School WMU Cooley prepares students for the legal profession through a practical and integrated program. Its flexible scheduling lets students attend full or part time during the day, evening or weekend. Video conferencing allows faculty to teach at the Grand Rapids, Lansing and Auburn Hills campuses simultaneously. 111 Commerce Ave. SW, 301-6800. cooley.edu 48 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

MUSIC ENSEMBLES Bach Chorale of Grand Rapids Formed by Dr. Martin Werner to perform at the inaugural Grand Rapids Bach Festival in 1997, this group performs music by a variety of composers in the spring and fall. bachchoralegrandrapids.org Calvin Community Symphony Founded in 1994 by former members of Calvin’s student ensembles, the Calvin Community Symphony allows adult musicians to continue to perform within the community. The orchestra’s membership is open to both Calvin alumni and community musicians. It performs a fall and spring concert. calvin. edu/academics/departments-programs/music/ ensembles/community-symphony Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids Along with its regular concert season, the group works to raise social awareness with organizations such as Heartside Ministries, Children’s Assessment Center, Senior Neighbors, Silent Observer and the Butterworth Foundation. chamberchoirgr.org Embellish Founded in 1995, this community, professional-level handbell ensemble performs throughout the year. Ringlets is its outreach program for children. embellishhandbells.com Grand Rapids & District Pipe Band Formed in 1968 to maintain and promote the music and history of the Great Highland Bagpipes and Highland-style drumming, the group performs in parades and festivals. grandrapidspipeband.com Grand Rapids Choir of Men & Boys Now in its 30th year, the Grand Rapids Choir of Men & Boys is one of only 10 choirs in the entire country that sings in the tradition of the English Cathedral choirs of men and boys, patterned after King’s College Choir, Cambridge. With an active year-round schedule, the choir performs 12 to 14 concerts each year, often with famous British guest conductors.

The choir is an audition choir, and concerts are always offered free to the public. grcmb.org Grand Rapids Sweet Adelines Chorus The chorus consists of more than 60 women singing four-part barbershop harmonies with flair. The group performs at annual shows, competitions and community events. grsa.net Grand Rapids Symphonic Band Formed in 1978, the adult concert band performs several times annually. It often collaborates with students, including sponsoring a Youth Soloist Competition, and features the 17-piece Grand River Big Band. grsymphonicband.org Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra Big band ensemble plays jazz classics and original compositions. It performs at Founders Brewing Co. the first Sunday of each month. grjo.com Grand Rapids Symphony Established in 1930, GRS’s concert series vary widely with something for every age: Classical, Pops, SymphonicBoom, Great Eras, Coffee Classics, Picnic Pops, Lollipops and Family concerts for kids, and more.

GRS also runs the Youth Symphony and Classical Orchestra for younger musicians. grsymphony.org

Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus This group, established in 1996, is dedicated to singing music that celebrates and honors the diversity of women’s lives across many cultures. It performs two major concerts annually and participates in a variety of community events. grwc.org Great Lakes Chorus Established in 1947, this award-winning ensemble also includes several barbershop quartets. It performs concerts throughout the year with a repertoire that includes barbershop, gospel, patriotic, doo-wop, seasonal and swing. greatlakeschorus.org Kent Philharmonic Orchestra Formed in 1975, KPO consists of volunteer classical musicians who perform several concerts a year and operate through Grand Rapids Community College. kentphilgr.org Metropolitan Choir of Praise A Christian chorus of approximately 40 members, this group has been singing sacred music since 1963. The choir performs about a half-dozen concerts annually. metropolitanchoir.org Opera Grand Rapids was founded in 1967 and is the state’s longest-running professional opera production company. For its productions, Opera Grand Rapids engages a cast of internationally acclaimed artists, directors and other professionals, in addition to the regional Grand Rapids Symphony and Opera Grand Rapids Chorus. Its mission is to foster and fulfill demand for high-quality live opera in West Michigan.

Schubert Male Chorus Composed of men 18 and older, this group performs a wide variety of music, including folk, patriotic, spirituals, show tunes, classical, contemporary, love songs, sea chanteys and Christmas/seasonal selections. The Good Libations “quartet of five” sings a cappella hits from the ’50s and ’60s. schubertmalechorus.org St. Cecilia Music Center School of Music The School of Music offers educational and performance opportunities for youth and adults in an ensemble setting. Adult programs include Grand Band and Grand String Orchestra, and youth programs starting with our beginning orchestra (Sinfonia) through advanced (Philharmonic), as well as Jazz Combo, Concert Band and Jazz Band. scmc-online.org/school-of-music Triumph Music Academy Music school offering lessons in everything from cello to ear training to hip-hop lyricism. Events take place throughout the year offering students a chance to play as part of an ensemble and for an audience. triumphmusicacademy.com West Michigan Gay Men’s Chorus Nonprofit organization founded in 2008. It is composed of both gay and straight men and women that perform throughout the West Michigan area to advocate the development of a positive relationship between the citizens of West Michigan and the gay cultural community. wmgaymenschorus.org

West Michigan New Horizons Music Ensembles Founded in 1999, this organization offers approximately 100 adults a chance to play music in a number of ensembles, including symphonic, concert, Dixieland, German and percussion.

There are several performances each year, as well as outreach programs for schools and retirement homes. westmichigannewhorizons.org

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GRAND RAPIDS

SOCIAL CLUBS Alliance Francaise de Grand Rapids Activities of this French language club include conversation groups, book club and French classes, along with events such as a Bastille Day celebration and Mardi Gras Fete. afgrandrapids.org Club Italia Those who love Italian language and culture meet at 7 p.m. the second Monday of each month at Schuler Books & Music on 28th Street SE. Sponsored in part by the Sister Cities International group. grsistercities.org Economic Club of Grand Rapids A professional organization of executives and community leaders, this group is dedicated to the city’s economic health and growth. It hosts semimonthly luncheons September-May and evening discussions.

Past speakers have included Henry Kissinger, Alan Greenspan, Condoleezza Rice, Bill Clinton, Bono and Tom Brokaw. econclub.net Edelweiss Club of Grand Rapids German American social club celebrates German culture and organizes the annual Oktoberfest celebration, as well as other activities. edelweissclubgr.com Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association Members meet monthly and participate in educational activities, comet watches and featured speakers. GRAAA opens its James C. Veen Observatory to the public one Saturday per month April-October. graaa.org Grand Rapids Area Professionals for Excellence GRAPE is a small-business networking group that hosts speakers at varying locations and networking opportunities with business owners and leaders. grapegr.org Grand Rapids Audubon Club GRAC holds monthly meetings Sept.-May for nature lovers with guest speakers (open to public). It also organizes birding field trips. graud.org Grand Rapids Young Professionals GRYP provides young professionals 21-40 with the opportunity to network, professionally and socially.

It offers company tours, panel events, luncheon speakers and volunteer opportunities. gryp.org Green Drinks Grand Rapids Every month, those who work in the environmental field meet informally to network and socialize — part of West Michigan Environmental Action Council. wmeac.org/green-drinks Junior League of Grand Rapids This women’s organization is centered on volunteering, developing the potential of women and improving communities. Membership includes monthly meetings and social events. juniorleaguegr.com

Mothers of Preschoolers International group of moms holds monthly meetings and forms playgroups and other family-friendly events. mops.org Newcomers Club of Greater Grand Rapids This social club gathers for a general meeting once per month September-May for social time and a program. It also offers a slew of activities year-round, including dinner club, happy hour, euchre, golf, book clubs and more. It also provides volunteer opportunities and makes a monetary contribution to partner charities. newcomersclubofgreatergrandrapids.com Polish Heritage Society This group helps Polish Americans celebrate their ancestry by hosting special festivals and events. It also encourages education and awareness of Polish history. polishheritagesociety.com Tasters Guild A wine and food appreciation society for everyone from novice to connoisseur, offering a variety of educational and social activities. Members enjoy tours, cruises, tastings and dinners while promoting responsible consumption. tastersguild.com West Michigan Blues Society Provides an opportunity for blues fans to meet and enjoy the fellowship of other blues lovers while promoting and preserving the history of blues music. Blues in the Schools presentations bring blues appreciation and history to local elementary schools. wmbs.org West Michigan Jazz Society WMJS promotes jazz events, such as the Monday Night Jazz Series at The Guest House September-May, weekly Jazz in the Park summer concerts at Millennium Park Meadows in Walker and the New Vintage Jazz Series at New Vintage Place. Since 2000, WMJS has honored outstanding local musicians with the Musician of the Year award. wmichjazz.org Women’s City Club of Grand Rapids Activities include educational and cultural programs, fashion shows, concerts, bus trips, health and lifestyle programs, book reviews and travelogue classes. wccgr.org Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Grand Rapids Provides emerging nonprofit leaders with opportunities for professional development, education and networking with events such as monthly Conversation Starter meetings and annual Leadership Awards. ynpngr.org

PROFESSIONAL SPORTS Grand Rapids Drive NBA G League basketball team affiliated with the NBA’s Detroit Pistons played its inaugural season in 2014-15. The season runs from November to April. Home games are played at The DeltaPlex Arena, 2500 Turner Ave. NW, Walker. grandrapids.gleague.nba.com Grand Rapids Football Club Men: Minorleague soccer team in the National Premier Soccer League played its first season in 2015. The season runs from May to July. Home games are played at Houseman Field, 901 Fountain St. NE. Women: Pro-am

Grand Rapids Griffins downtown opener at Van Andel Arena.

soccer team in the United Women’s Soccer league played its first season in 2016. The season runs from May to July. Home games are played at Grandville High School, 4700 Canal Ave. SW. grandrapidsfc.com Grand Rapids Griffins American Hockey League team, primary affiliate of the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings and 2013 and 2017 Calder Cup champions, begins its season in October and ends in April. Games are played at Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. griffinshockey.com West Michigan Whitecaps Minor-league baseball team affiliated with the Detroit Tigers is a member of the Midwest League. The season runs April through early September. Games are played at Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. whitecapsbaseball.com

SPORTING EVENTS Amway River Bank Run More than 18,000 people participate in this May event, the largest 25K road race in the country. It also includes a 5K and 10K run, 5K walk, junior events, and a handcycle and wheelchair races. Downtown Grand Rapids. amwayriverbankrun.com The Color Run Dubbed the “Happiest 5K on the Planet,” this noncompetitive event in July allows participants to walk, run, jog or skip to the finish line as they are showered in colored powder.

Gazelle Girl An annual all women’s event offering a 5K, 10K and half-marathon. It is held in April in downtown Grand Rapids. runsignup.com/race/mi/ grandrapids/gazellegirl Grand Rapids Triathlon USA Triathlon-sanctioned sprint, Olympic and half-distance triathlons, aquabike (swimming and biking) and relay events are held annually in June on a scenic course in Ada and Cascade townships. grandrapidstri.com JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 49

Gus Macker Basketball Tournament What began on a driveway in Lowell has spawned 3-on-3 basketball tournaments nationwide for players age 7-50+. The entire tour runs March to September; West Michigan locations in 2019 include Grand Rapids, Ludington, Sparta, Otsego, Belding, Hastings and Greenville. macker.com Meijer LPGA Classic Watch the best women golfers in the world compete in an LPGA-sanctioned tournament at Blythefield Country Club in Belmont.

This four-day event takes place in June and benefits Meijer’s Simply Give program, which helps food pantries keep their supply stocked.

Meijer State Games of Michigan The Olympic-style games are the signature event of the West Michigan Sports Commission and attract thousands of Michigan amateur athletes of all ages and abilities. The Summer Games are held in June, while the Winter Games are in February. stategamesofmichigan.com Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon The certified 26.2-mile course takes runners on a tour of downtown Grand Rapids and through Millennium Park’s trails; half-marathon and relay events also are available. The 15th annual event takes place Oct. 20, 2019, and begins and ends at David D. Hunting YMCA. grandrapidsmarathon.com

Grand Rapids Dirt Dawgs

Michigan Golden Gloves Association Amateur boxing league has events in March and April at The DeltaPlex Arena, 2500 Turner Ave., Walker. michigangoldengloves.com MSU Gran Fondo, which means “big ride,” is a rolling party that offers four route options for cyclists of any skill level: 80-mile, 40-mile, 25-mile or the Family Ride (10-12 miles). The June ride is a timed, noncompetitive event. Individuals or teams ride along scenic routes from downtown Grand Rapids to Lake Michigan and enjoy gourmet food stops along the way.

Riders will return to the Finish Line Festival with music, craft brews and a grand feast. msugranfondo.com National 24-Hour Challenge The nation’s largest on-road, 24-hour, personal best bicycle endurance race takes place annually on Father’s Day weekend at Thornapple Kellogg Middle School in Middleville. n24hc.org Rhoades McKee Reeds Lake Triathlon/ Duathlon The Olympic distance includes a 1,500meter swim, 40K bike ride and 10K run, while the sprint distance includes a 750-meter swim, 20K bike ride and 5K run. There also are duathlon (biking and running) and aquabike (swimming and biking) options at the Sept. 7, 2019, event. John Collins Park, 650 Lakeside Drive, East Grand Rapids. reedslaketriathlon.com

Grand Raggidy Roller Derby The all-women roller derby league, formed in 2006, is a member of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association. Games are scheduled year-round. Home games are played at MSA Woodland or Griff’s Georgetown. grandraggidy.com Grand Rapids Dirt Dawgs Nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching kids 2-16 trail stewardship and healthy living through mountain biking.

Practices run June through August with a race to cap the end of the season. grdirtdawgs.com Grand Rapids Rifle and Pistol Club This league-based shooting club offers activities October through April for people of all skill levels in an indoor, 50-foot firing range. 1331 Nagel Ave. SW, Wyoming. grrpc.net Grand Rapids Rowing Association GRRA offers outdoor adult recreational and masters competitive rowing from April to October. Junior Rowing programs are open to middle and high school students. Boathouse: 291 N. Park St. NW. grrowing.org Grand Rapids Rugby Football Club For more than 35 years, the Division I Gazelles have excelled in the Midwest Region and boast an impressive national record. Saturday games are scheduled in spring and fall. Home field is Highland Park, 600 College Ave. NE. grandrapidsrugby.com Grand Rapids Running Club This group organizes a summer race series and training runs for the Amway River Bank Run and Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon. Membership isn’t necessary, but members receive discounts on race fees and merchandise at area running stores. grandrapidsrunningclub.org 50 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

SPORTS CLUBS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Grand Rapids Sport & Social Club Coed adult leagues that emphasize meeting new people while staying active. Group offers year-round sports both outdoor and indoor and after parties for drink specials. grssc.com Grand Rapids Yacht Club Established in 1931, GRYC offers sailing lessons, competitive racing and summer regattas on Reeds Lake. Yearly dues and fees are required to be a part of this consortium of sailors, who sail between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 740 Lakeside Drive SE, East Grand Rapids. grandrapidsyachtclub.org Greater Grand Rapids Figure Skating Club Founded in 1972 and part of the U.S. Figure Skating association, the club brings the joy of ice skating to people of all ages and abilities. Events include the Grand Rapids Open and an annual spring ice show. Patterson Ice Center, 2550 Patterson Ave. SE. ggrfsc.org Greater Grand Rapids Ski Club Members downhill and cross-country ski in the winter, but also enjoy year-round get-togethers the first Friday of the month (open to the public), as well as golfing, biking, sailing, kayaking and camping. ggrsc.org Meadowview Polo Club Members, who must be part of the U.S. Polo Association and pay grounds fees, can learn how to play from professional polo player and horse trainer Les Johnson.

Tournaments are played June to September.

Meadowview Farm, 9914 Vergennes St. SE, Lowell. meadowview-farm.com Mountain Minnies An outdoor adventure program for girls ages 3 to 5 offered in the winter at Cannonsburg Ski Hill. The hour-long sessions include activities such as sledding, practicing balance on Spooner Balance Boards, riding up the magic carpet, going on adventure hikes and more.

Cannonsburg Ski Hill, 6800 Cannonsburg Rd., Belmont. cannonsburg.com November Project Offers free social, outdoor workouts to increase human connection, improve mental and physical health among both adults and youth, teach the public about fitness and health, improve communities throughout the world, and bring people of all different backgrounds, ages, cultures, communities, and fitness levels together.

The Grand Rapids chapter meets year-round (in all weather) on Wednesdays at 6:14 a.m. at the corner of Lyon and Bostwick streets. november-project. com/grand-rapids Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club Organized in 1970, this club holds monthly meetings, annual gatherings, a race team, summer training events, education programs, invitationals, plus year-round weekly and summer daily rides. Meetings are held at Rapid Central Station, 250 Grandville Ave. SE. rapidwheelmen.com RunGR A training group for runners of all abilities, RunGR offers year-round access to coaching, training and structured workouts. RunGR sponsors the Lake Michigan Credit Union Bridge Run, this year Sept. 15, supporting local organizations committed to healthy lifestyles. rungr.com

Wednesday Night Hills & Stairs A group of runners of all ability levels that meets every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Founders Brewing Co. to run hills & stairs in downtown Grand Rapids.

After completing the night’s course, the group joins inside Founders for socializing. See the club’s Facebook page for details.

West Michigan Trail Runners A trail running club focused on getting people outdoors.

Members run trails throughout the area. westmich igantrailrunners.org Westside Stride A community fun run/walk club that meets at the corner of Summer and Bridge streets, weather permitting, at 6 p.m. every Tuesday. The 5K course allows for running or walking at your own pace. After the exercise the group meets at a variety of West Side restuarants/pubs to enjoy beverage/food specials and fellowship. See the group’s Facebook page for details.

THEATER Actors’ Theatre Founded in 1980, this nonprofit community theater company features at least five contemporary productions annually showcasing local actors. Performs at Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. actorstheatregrandrapids.org Aquinas College Theatre The academic theater program at Aquinas College performs classical and contemporary productions at Aquinas Performing Arts Center, 1700 E. Fulton St. aquinas. edu/theatre Broadway Grand Rapids This communitybased nonprofit brings professional Broadway plays and musicals to Grand Rapids. Performs at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. broadwaygrandrapids.com Calvin Theatre Company Calvin College theater majors and other students perform a range of challenging plays. Performs three to four shows every year at Calvin’s Gezon Auditorium, 3201 Burton St. SE. calvin.edu/academics/departmentsprograms/calvin-theatre-company Circle Theatre Circle began presenting quality musicals, dramas and comedies in 1953. Its season runs May through September and includes three musicals and two plays. Magic Circle productions are for younger audiences. Performs at Aquinas PAC, 1703 Robinson Road SE. circletheatre.org Dog Story Theater An all-volunteer venue that provides a space for performers, directors, writers, dancers, comedians, poets, filmmakers and musicians to showcase their work. Though it does not produce its own shows, the theater hosts several regular production companies, including Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company, The University Wits, Theater 616 and No Outlet Improv. 7 Jefferson Ave. SE. dogstorytheater.com

Ebony Road Players A theater company with a mission to inspire, educate and engage the community with high-quality theater productions focused on the Black experience. Founded in 2014, Ebony Road Players produces an annual Loving Day Celebration as well as plays by renowned Black playwrights and community-based works. Rotating venues. 1213 Kalamazoo Ave. SE. ebonyroad.org Grand Rapids Civic Theatre Established in 1925, the Civic is one of the largest community theaters in the country. Its School of Theatre Arts provides education for all ages via workshops, classes, a teen traveling troupe and a high school summer stock troupe. Performs in the 750-seat Meijer Majestic Theatre, 30 N. Division Ave. grct.org Grand Valley State University The GVSU theatre program, now a part of the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, includes three productions annually, plus a Shakespeare Festival in the fall. Bard To Go allows its ensemble to bring Shakespeare’s works to high schools and also travels regionally and internationally. Performs at Louis Armstrong Theatre, Allendale campus. gvsu.edu/theatre GRCC Players Grand Rapids Community College students act, design costumes, create scenery, control sound and arrange lighting as part of their theater studies. Faculty members direct fall and winter main-stage productions; students direct an evening of one acts in the winter. Performs at Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. grcc.edu/ theater/grccplayers Heritage Theatre Group Focused on “classic plays and plays with classic themes,” this volunteerrun community theater group presents works from every era. Performs at Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. heritagetheatregr.org Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids Founded in 1992, the group’s mission is to offer theater productions with Jewish themes and questions that resonate with a universal audience. Its season includes three productions. Performs at Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. jtgr.org Master Arts Theatre Christian theater group is dedicated to performing productions that are “wholesome, enlightening and enriching.” It presents plays September to June, plus summer youth productions. Performs at 75 77th St. SW. masterarts.org West Michigan Savoyards This group is dedicated to bringing the works of Gilbert and Sullivan to West Michigan audiences, performing one work per year in the spring. Performs at Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. westmichigansavoyards.org

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 51

GRAND RAPIDS

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Special Advertising Section

BUSINESS SHOWCASE

Mosaic Wealth Management LLC

Ted Vogt and Carol A. Dehen have worked together for 32 years and bring more than 60-plus years of experience as managing directors of Mosaic Wealth Management LLC. When it comes to managing a client’s finances and planning for their future, experience certainly matters — and so do a number of other important factors.

Mosaic Wealth Management offers access to a full range of investment products and services via LPL Financial, the nation’s leading provider of truly independent investment services. They work with clients toward pursuing their goals with the highest degrees of integrity, trust, and service — and, of course, experience.

“We have navigated and guided clients through all types of markets and helped them build wealth, buy vacation homes and businesses, send kids and grandkids to college, generously give to charity, and retire comfortably,” Dehen says.

Located in Ada, Mosaic Wealth Management is in small-town USA, but with a picture window to the financial world. They pride themselves on being a company founded on “Midwest Values

With a Global Perspective.”

“We study what’s going on in the world, what’s happening with the economy, global politics, international markets, etc., in order to make informed investment decisions,” says Vogt, also the company’s CIO. “But we also take the time to know each of our clients personally and provide them with outstanding service. When they call our office, one of three people will always answer the phone — there is no touchtone system, no one is sent to voicemail. We are responsive when clients need something or just want to talk through any concerns they may have.”

“Our mission is to learn about our clients’ visions and collaborate with them to meet their objectives,” Dehen says. “Planning is important, but equally important is helping clients stay the course during difficult markets.”

A current focus at Mosaic Wealth Management has been on “ESG” portfolios — investing in principled companies that seek to improve the planet and society in ways such as treating employees fairly, being mindful of the environment, focusing

on clean energy, and avoiding organizations with ties to weapons, tobacco, fossil fuel exploration, and other controversial businesses.

“We are finding these companies are being rewarded for their efforts, and an ESG portfolio can provide competitive returns and give clients the satisfaction of knowing they are investing to make a difference,” Dehen says.

All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. No strategy assures success or protects against loss Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. 

Mosaic Wealth Management LLC 4764 Fulton St. East, Ste. 201 Ada, MI 49301 616-949-0900 mosaicwealthmanagement.com email address: carol.dehen@lpl.com email address: ted.vogt@lpl.com

Special Advertising Section

BUSINESS SHOWCASE

Drew Cooper & Anding

Left to Right: Partner, Thomas V. Hubbard; Associate, LaRissa D. Hollingsworth; Founder and Partner, John E. Anding; Founder and Partner, Stephen R. Drew; Partner, Amanda P. Narvaes; Partner, Adam C. Sturdivant; Founder and Partner, Ann M. Cooper (not pictured).

Stephen R. Drew, a founding partner of Drew Cooper & Anding of Grand Rapids, says helping those traumatized by abuse, harassment, serious injury, or employment termination is the greatest reward he receives from his profession of trial lawyer.

Another is being one of the lead attorneys in one of the nation’s largest — and most disturbing — cases in the last decade. Drew represents Rachael Denhollander and 122 survivors in the civil litigation against Larry Nassar and the entities that enabled him. Nassar is the former Michigan State University sports medicine doctor and USA Gymnastics Women’s Olympic team physician who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting young female athletes.

“They are strong women who have been violated, most when they were children,” Drew says. “Although most of them have strong family support, it’s been very hard on them and their families. It has been a pleasure and an honor to represent them.

Seeing their incredible strength gives

me strength.” Drew has not only made a difference in his clients’ lives, but he’s also proud to have helped raise awareness and change the landscape to prevent similar situations from ever happening again.

“I take pride in feeling that this case is making a difference in how colleges and other entities implement measures so that sexual abuse of this scope and magnitude never happens again,” he says.

“Being involved in this case has reinforced our belief that good, aggressive litigation can make a change and a difference in the lives of our clients and in our communities. A child’s life is much more important than prestige or profits.”

Drew Cooper & Anding’s mission to serve its clients and its community has been the cornerstone and driving force of the firm since its inception in 1991. “We currently have seven lawyers, which is very manageable as a boutique litigation firm,” Drew says. “We feel honored and rewarded in helping our clients, both individuals and

companies, deal with troubling situations.

We are a very diverse firm and we bring a great deal of varied real-life perspectives to the table in assisting our clients.”

Amanda Narvaes, a litigator with the firm in the areas of complex commercial litigation, lender liability, copyright litigation, and consumer protection, joined DCA in 2011. She says the slogan “Just Results” is not only about getting results for their clients, but justice as well. “‘Just Results’ comes from the combination of ‘justice’ and ‘results,’” she says. “We want people to understand that we look out for the little guy as far as justice goes.” 

Drew Cooper & Anding Just Results® since 1991 Aldrich Place, Suite 200 80 Ottawa Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-454-8300 dca-lawyers.com

food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

dining listings A GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS IN GRAND RAPIDS AND BEYOND

The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors.

harissa hot chicken sandwich and vegan Rueben, as well as entrées including ramen bowls and Korean short ribs. Full bar. Patio and rooftop deck. Open daily. 720 Michigan St NE, 825-3001. friesiangr.com. L, D. $

DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS

Gilly’s Smokehouse — Twelve rotating craft beers from The B.O.B’s Brewery paired with smokehouse fare, including smoked beef brisket, Amish chicken, pork butt and more. Closed Sun-Mon. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/gillys restaurant. D ¢-$

Restaurants are included 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 (page 78).

Angel’s Thai Café — Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthaicafe.com. L, D ¢-$

The Chop House — Aged prime beef, seafood, pork and lamb chops, chicken and more.

Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. D $$

Bangkok Taste Cuisine — Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com.

L, D ¢-$

City Built Brewing Co. – Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon. 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrewing.com. L, D $

Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. L (Sun-Fri), D ¢-$

Cinco De Mayo — Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayo1.com. L, D $

Bistro Bella Vita — Big-city casual; fresh French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily. 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. L, D $-$$

Citysen Lounge — Soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and small-plate creations. Beer and wine; happy hour 4-7 pm. Open daily.

CityFlatsHotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, 6081725. cityflatshotel.com/location/grand-rapids.

B, L, D ¢-$

Bobarino’s at The B.O.B. — Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ bobarinospizza. L, D ¢-$ Brick & Porter — Appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickand portergr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$ Bull’s Head Tavern — Large selection of appetizers, soups and salads. Entrées include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullsheadtavern.com.

L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Charley’s Crab — Fresh seafood in a fine dining atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Glutenfree menu. Beer and extensive wine list. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com/charleys-crab. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

Cottage Bar — Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. L, D ¢ FDivani — European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées.

Full bar. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. divanigr.com. D $-$$

Ginza Sushi & Ramen Bar — Wide selection of authentic Japanese cuisine, sushi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi dinners, appetizers, soups and salad. Open daily. Catering available. 1015 Michigan St NE, 272-4116. ginzasushiramen.com.

L, D $ GP Sports — Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6495. amwaygrand. com/dining/gp-sports. L, D $ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. — Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-to-table menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. L (SatSun), D ¢-$ Grand Rapids Garage Bar and Grill — “All-American grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 4540321. garagebargr.com. L, D ¢

Flanagan’s — Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. L, D ¢

Grand Woods Lounge — Eclectic menu with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious full bar. Year-round alfresco dining with fireplace. Open daily. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. grandwoodslounge.com.

L, D ¢-$

Founders Brewing Co. — Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches.

Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com.

L, D ¢

Heritage Hill Pizza — Offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. No alcohol. Open daily with a few tables for dining in. 340 State St SE, 7424773. grandrapidspizza.net. L, D ¢-$

Friesian Gastro Pub – A cozy neighborhood eatery offering comfort food items with an eclectic twist. Menu items include handhelds like the

The Heritage — GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu Continued on page 60 JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 55

dining review

BY IRA CRAAVEN

European vibes 95 Monroe Center NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Phone: (616) 419-4168 thelittlebirdgr.com

nitely the twice-cooked sweet potatoes. The

tucked along Monroe Center in the former

melding of flavors created a satisfying dish

Van Hoecks Shoes. It is the second venture

that wasn’t overly sweet but did hit our sweet

by restaurateurs and couple Joel Wabeke

tooth. This dish consisted of smoked bacon,

and Sarah Wepman; the pair also owns That

miso caramel, lime leaf, fried kale and pea-

Early Bird in Eastown.

nut; however, my dining companion is vege-

Littlebird opened in November 2017 and

tarian, so we had ours sans bacon.

Dining ratings:

has quickly become a staple for breakfast,

For our main courses, I tried the day’s mar-

Food: *** Service: *** Beverages: *** Atmosphere: **** Price: $-$$

lunch and dinner. It’s easy to understand

ket catch, which was green garlic poached

why; the restaurant offers an inviting and

cod ($20), while my friend had a vegetar-

cozy atmosphere with a European feel. It has

ian version of the lamb meatballs ($22).

a commanding bar that runs almost the full

The restaurant easily accommodated her

length of the dining room and is reminiscent

dietary needs by substituting fried tofu for

of midcentury dining cars. Its small tables

the meatballs. The rest of the dish includ-

with bench seating and four-legged,

ed eggplant, curried lentils, feta, cucumber

Must try: Twice cooked sweet potatoes

wooden-backed chairs complete

Not so much: Latke and smoked salmon platter

the European café vibe.

Top: Olives Middle: Laura Palmer Below: Green garlic poached cod

bok choy, wild mushrooms, snow peas, lime,

evening and found an eclectic

fried coriander seeds and saffron yogurt, had

menu that is a bit hard to catego-

a unique flavor that was hard to pinpoint. I

rize. It seems to be Asian-inspired,

liked the veggie forwardness of the dish but

using ingredients like miso caramel, soy glaze, cumin yogurt, curried For drinks, we tried the Mother of Dragons ($10), which is a

**** *** ** *

Exceptional Above Average Satisfactory Poor

¢ $ $$

Inexpensive (under $10) Moderate ($10-$20) Expensive (Over $20)

(Prices based on average entrée.)

found it dulled the taste of the cod a bit.

We ended our evening with polenta almond cake ($8), made with citrus curd, almond and preserved balaton cherry. This also carried a bitter flavor from the citrus.

mix of mezcal, St. Germain, rhu-

While we left Littlebird full and pleased

barb, ginger and rose soda water,

with our dinner, the one complaint we had

and the Laura Palmer ($10), con-

was the service. Our server didn’t seem very

sisting of blanco tequila, bénédic-

engaged. She neglected to discuss our menu

tine, lemon marmalade, honey,

options with us after learning that my friend

iced tea. Mother of Dragons is an

is vegetarian, delivered our cheese plate

interesting drink with strong bit-

without going over any of the items on the

terness. It is not a drink you can

board and disappeared before the night was

chug but is easy to sip. The Laura

over. We ended the night with a different

Palmer was particularly refreshing

server who we flagged down when it was

and a great summer cocktail.

time to order dessert after a substantial wait.

My dining companion and I started our

Our second server, however, was exception-

meal with the olives ($6), cheese plate ($14)

al. He was very attentive and earlier in the

and the twice-cooked sweet potatoes ($8).

night he shared the cheese board items with

We were pleased with all three of these

us after we asked.

selections, but the standout dish was defi56 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

The poached cod, which included baby

I visited Littlebird on a Friday

lentils and more.

Guide to ratings:

salad and yogurt.

On a second visit, my group of four

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYAN ESLER

Littlebird

LITTLEBIRD IS A QUAINT RESTAURANT

endured a one-hour wait to be seated on a busy Saturday morning. I must admit, it’s the first time I’ve had breakfast at the bar, but it was worth the wait.

We started off with a mimosa ($8), regular coffee ($3.50), Hong cha black tea ($2.75) and a chocolate soda ($3.50). The sweet mimosa paired well with the rest of the meal, the coffee was rich and well-bodied, and the tea was exquisite. The soda, on the other hand, was a swing and miss.

For entrées, we tried the Full English ($15), latke and smoked salmon platter ($14), French toast ($11) and the Eggs in Purgatory ($14).

The Full English, perfect for diners who want a little bit of everything, featured an egg cooked to order, sautéed mushrooms, baked beans, blistered tomato, breakfast potatoes, breakfast sausage patty, bacon and a toasted English muffin. The amount seemed daunting at first glance, but with some help from my friends, we polished off this smorgasbord of breakfast foods.

The smoked salmon platter was more salmon than smoked, but the presentation was outstanding with a pickled onion/ cucumber/chive nest adding color to the plate’s featured fish and crisped potato pancakes. One companion mentioned the latkes could be used as a “bun” for a breakfast sandwich with eggs, meat and cheese between, and the light yet crunchy texture of the cakes reinforced the validity of that sug-

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRYAN ESLER

gestion. A house-made English muffin ($2)

Top left: Polenta almond cake Top right: Twice cooked sweet potatoes Above: Eggs in Purgatory Right: Littlebird’s bar and dining areas

with apple butter nicely complemented the salmon, latkes and scrambled eggs.

could only enjoy one piece of toast.

The French toast was a bit too sweet for

Lastly, the Eggs in Purgatory, a North Afri-

our liking, especially considering the sweet-

can-influenced dish of sunny-side eggs on

ened citrus cream cheese. The dish also was

top of tomato and eggplant curry, lentil, feta,

served with sour cherries and pecans. A salty

lamb merguez sausage, parsley, mint and

meat might help balance the sweetness, but

cucumber, was delightful and delicious — an

unfortunately, the sugar explosion meant we

item perfect for a chilly morning.

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 57

cocktail hour

BY TORRENCE R. O’HAIRE

Road trip, distillery style Let the experts be experts So what if you “only like whiskey” — if you go to a distillery that specializes in, say, rum — try the rum.

Your hosts are committing to their expertise in the products they’re showing you, so put your opinions aside and let your hosts host. Ask them what they’re best at or which project they’re most passionate about and give it a try!

Try the weird thing, too

First off, recognize that the vast majority of these places are self-supported passion projects from inspired locals.

Therefore, don’t expect the milliondollar digs like that place you visited in Bourbon Country ...

THE INDUSTRY OF MICRO-DISTILLING is in a heyday; just about every small town in West Michigan and beyond has a “tasting room” of local spirits or a tiny artisanal producer of some small-batch something or other just begging for you to turn off the interstate.

As summer travel plans get you itching to hit the road, here are a few tips and tricks to help you explore our local distillers and find some new treasures to bring back to your home bar.

Small batch = small business First off, recognize that the vast majority of these places are self-supported passion projects from inspired locals. Therefore, don’t expect the milliondollar digs like that place you visited in Bourbon Country — know that you’re supporting small local businesses that are excited for your visit. So no, they might not have dozens of different things to try, and they might not have your “favorite type of spirit,” but relax and enjoy the ride, and support your local community.

Let the spirits speak When I’m choosing between stops, especially if I only have one place to visit, I’ll often skip the shinier, fancier one with all the bells and whistles and go to the simpler location. I figure they’re spending their money on improving their products rather than on buying the inflatable bounce house and world’s largest paper-mache apple.

58 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Behave It’s a tough job, working in liquor. If you know a distillery stop (or three) might be on the map, pack snacks and water, choose a strict designated driver and don’t over imbibe — it’s immensely rude to show up at an artisan’s showroom to see their hard work in action and have to be carried out because you don’t know when to spit. You’ll always get extra care and attention from your host when you’re polite, well-behaved and respectful. Just make sure your hosts are excited for you to return, not excited for you to get out.

Take something home with you and get advice!

I have friends who love to distillery travel and always buy that bottle of one-of-a-kind weird stuff and now have a cupboard full of barely emptied bottles of strange liqueurs from around the world. Sure, they make fun memorabilia, but they also take up a lot of room. You should absolutely buy a bottle to take with you, but ask the host how to use it when you get home — there’s no point stocking liquor just for decoration’s sake! Get some cocktail recipes and tips from the crafters themselves and show off your travel treasures.

— Torrence R. O’Haire, of The Starving Artist, is a chef, entrepreneur and restaurant consultant specializing in wine, spirits and cocktails. He also founded the Grand Rapids Cocktail Guild.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK

Distillery vats

You can distill literally anything with sugar in it.

You can infuse basically everything else. So, as you travel around exploring artisanal booze shacks, why wouldn’t you give the local specialty a try? I’ve had Indiana persimmon eau de vie (delicious), Michigan pawpaw schnapps (okay), Louisiana crawfish whiskey (nightmarish), and the worst thing that’s happened to me is that it was a fun memory of the trip.

OPENING

NOVEMBER 2019

IVERTOWN IDGE

An active senior living community

SURROUNDED BY NATURE • NURTURED BY NEIGHBORS Redstone Homes, in collaboration with Franciscan Advisory Services, Inc. has created a premier senior living community nestled in the heart of the Rivertown Park neighborhood, conveniently located in Wyoming, just west of Grand Rapids. We combined exquisite living spaces with the natural beauty of the outdoors.

It’s the ideal retirement setting!

From the resort-style services and amenities, to the tastefully appointed one- and two-bedroom apartments, we paid attention to all the details. Rivertown Ridge was developed with the latest research in mind, creating spaces that nurture a sense of community while maintaining your independence.

INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY SUPPORT See for yourself why families rave about Rivertown Park! visit www.rivertownridge.com SALES OFFICE 3488 Copper River Ave SW Wyoming, MI 49418 Managed by Franciscan Advisory Services, Inc.

NOW TAKING RESERVATIONS Call 616-805-3989 to setup an appointment.

food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage.

L, D $-$$ Hong Kong Express — Szechuan and Cantonese.

All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. L, D ¢-$ Jamaican Dave’s — Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 530 S Division Ave, 458-7875.

Facebook. L, D ¢ J.D. Reardon’s — Restaurant and lounge at The Boardwalk offers American, southwest, Thai and more. Banquet facilities. Outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardons.com. L, D ¢-$ J. Gardella’s Tavern — Massive full bar and gargantuan menu includes hearty appetizers, salads, burgers, entrées. Three floors of seating.

Closed Sun. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellastavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢

FLeo’s — Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm Mon-Fri. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant.com. L (MonFri), D $-$$

Osteria Rossa – Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from executive chef/owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Closed Sun. 16 Monroe Center NE, 988-9350. osteriarossa.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$

Linear — Riverfront eatery featuring seasonal menu with fresh modern American fare and outdoor-seating options; plus, a display of rotating works by local artists. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1001 Monroe Ave NW, 200-4343. linearrestaurant. com. L, D ¢-$

Palace of India — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu including vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$

- Littlebird — Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and pastries. Full bar. Open daily.

95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr. com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢ Lucky Luciano’s — Fifty gourmet pizza options, whole or by the slice. Takeout, delivery available.

Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 15 Ionia Ave SW, Suite 140, 356-4600. luckylucianos.com. L, D ¢-$ Luna Taqueria y Cocina — Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. L, D ¢-$ Marcona on Lyon — “Modern” Mediterranean cuisine, including appetizers, grilled skewers, falafel and more, as well as vegetarian- and veganfriendly options. Full bar. Closed Mon. 623 Lyon St NE, 828-1228. marconaonlyon.com. L, D $-$$ MeXo — Features tequila/mezcal bar and a modern touch on classic pre-Hispanic foods of Mexico. Full bar. Open daily. 118 E Fulton St, 828-4123. mexogr.com. B (Sun), L, D $

Leo’s

Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant — Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm WedSat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 7769000. mojospianobar.com. D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$

Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available.

No alcohol. Open daily. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 7762590. parsleymg.com. L, D ¢-$ FReserve — Wine bar offers extensive by-theglass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. L (MonFri), D $-$$ Roam by San Chez Bistro — The San Chez Bistro team introduces global street food, including cuisine from China, Morocco, Spain, France, Poland, U.K., Indonesia and more. Full bar. Closed Sun. 250 Monroe Ave NW, 288-9129. roambysanchez. com. B, L, D $ Rockwell Republic — Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily.

45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic. com. D $-$$ Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 7766426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ruths-chrissteak-house. L, D $$ San Chez Bistro — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchez bistro.com. B, L, D $-$$

Judson’s at The B.O.B. — Award-winning steakhouse offers steaks, seafood and chops. Notable wine list. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 3562000. thebob.com/judsonssteakhouse. D $$

MudPenny — Coffee bar with all-day breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and salads. Catering available. Closed Sun. 570 Grandville Ave SW, 2595353. mudpenny.com. B, L, D ¢

FSix.One.Six — Features new French cuisine in a cosmopolitan setting. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw.com/dining/six.one.six. B, L, D $-$$

Juju Bird — Chicken-centered restaurant featuring comfort foods like buttermilk fried chicken, as well as sandwiches and “birdie cones.” Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 2588115. downtownmarketgr.com. L, D $

New Hotel Mertens — French-inspired, upscale dining on restored historic site of original, early-20th-century-era New Hotel Mertens.

Seafood, pasta, entrées and small plates. Local wine options. Open daily. 35 Oakes St SW, 5511713. newhotelmertens.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), B (Mon-Fri), L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

Slows Bar-B-Q — Detroit-based restaurant offers extensive menu, including barbecue, sandwiches and sides. Michigan and national craft beers on tap. Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 454-1588. slowsbarbq.com. L, D ¢-$

The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck — Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar.

Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/thekitchen-by-wolfgang-puck. L, D $-$$ 60 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom — Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front patio. Full bar.

Closed Mon. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick. biz. L, D ¢-$

Social Kitchen & Bar — Refined comfort food, sandwiches, pizzas, extensive cocktail menu.

Vintage décor, patio. Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 724-4464. socialkitchenandbar.com/grand-rapids.html. Brunch (SatSun), L, D $-$$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Continued from page 55

SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and gluten-free.

Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. L, D $ Stella’s Lounge — Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ Tavern On The Square — Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Featuring the Cartwright & Stinson Collections

Wheelhouse Kitchen and Cocktails — Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW, 226-3319. wheelhousegrandrapids.com. L, D $-$$

Kendall Lighting Center 810 Scriber, NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

616-459-8866 | KendallLightingCenter.com

Z’s Bar & Restaurant — Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available. Open daily. 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar. com. L, D ¢-$ Zoko 822 — Basque-inspired cuisine, featuring Northern Spanish and Southern French small plates, served family style; plus, “grab-and-go” lunch serviced through the Bodega 822. Full bar boasting over 45 selections of gin. Open daily.

822 Ottawa Ave NW, 828-1118. zoko822.com.

Brunch (Sun), L (Mon-Sat), D $-$$

WEST SIDE Ando Asian Kitchen & Bar — Asian fusion eatery featuring small plates, bentos, rice bowls, raw bar, noodles, soup, salad and more. Wide selection of wine, plus local, domestic and international beer.

Full bar. 415 Bridge St NW, 608-0789. andoasian kitchen.com. L, D $

Showroom Hours | Mon - Wed; Fri 8:30-6 | Thursday 8:30-8 Saturday 10a-2p | Closed Sunday

Modern Furniture & Design Services

Blue Dog Tavern — West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers.

Open daily. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. L, D ¢ Broadway Bar & Grill — Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations, especially at Christmas. Outdoor grilling during summer.

Hours change seasonally. 740 Broadway Ave SW, 454-0565. Facebook. L, D ¢ OButcher’s Union — Meat-and-whiskey-centric gastro-pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available.

438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. butchersuniongr. com. Brunch (Sun), L, D $ El Granjero — Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. Facebook. B, L, D ¢

1428 Plainfield Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505 616.459.4167 www.stonesthrowliving.com JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 61

TAKE YOUR OUTDOOR COOKING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

El Sombrero — Offers “the original” wet burrito. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurant mi.com. L, D ¢ Fratelli’s Kitchen & Bar — Italian cuisine based on family recipes from Sicily with a “modern twist.” Full service bar. Open daily. 443 Bridge St NW, Suite 2. 389-4963. fratellisgr.com. L, D $ Harmony Hall — West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves pizza, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Open daily. 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. harmonybeer.com/ harmony-hall. L, D ¢-$ The Holiday Bar — Established in 1905, menu features appetizers and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden in warm months. Open daily. 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com. L, D ¢ Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria & Brewery — Dexter-based brewery offers salads and sandwiches in addition to pizza. Kids menu available. Open daily. 428 Bridge St NW, 419-4676. jollypumpkin.com. L, D $

This one is for the backyard heroes; the BBQ kings of the block. You don’t just grill, you’ve mastered wood-fired cooking altogether-- and you’re hungry for more. Take your craft to the next level with the Traeger Ironwood. From WiFIRE technology for grilling on the go, to Smoke Science for a major flavor upgrade, you’ll never look back.

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Rylee’s 1234 MICHIGAN ST. NE GRAND RAPIDS, MI 616.451.0724 1205 Fulton St. WEST GRAND RAPIDS, MI 616.233.4711 4300 Remembrance Rd. NW WALKER, MI 616.453.7741

Long Road Distillers — Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of house-made snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroaddistillers.com.

Brunch (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$ Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseballthemed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com. L, D ¢-$

Rockford 643 Northland Dr. ROCKFORD, MI 616.866-9155

Rely on Us

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD HELPFUL PLACE

FREE ASSEMBLY & DELIVERY for ACE REWARDS MEMBERS Details in-store 62 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

The Knickerbocker – New Holland Brewing — Craft brewery featuring a variety of locally sourced shared plates, sandwiches, soups, pizzas, barbecue and more. Open daily. 417 Bridge St NW, 345-5642. newhollandbrew.com/knicker bocker. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$

Monarchs’ Club — Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft.

Open daily. 646 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9799. monarchsclubcornerbar.com. L, D ¢ One Bourbon — Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies. Closed Sun-Mon. 608 Bridge St NW, 608-5766. onebourbongr.com. D ¢-$ O’Toole’s Public House — Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. L, D ¢-$

#GRsummerPROJECT You are invited!

Grand Rapids students to showcase musical talents at The B.O.B. Students will also share updates on their progress towards solving community issues.

Pearl Street Grill — Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/pearl-streetgrill. B, L, D $ Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant — Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go.

Delivery and catering. Open daily. 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr.com. L (MonFri), D ¢-$ FThe Sovengard — Midwest meets Scandinavian spirit, with a focus on seasonal and local sourcing. Restaurant and outdoor beer garden in a historic West Side building. Open daily. 443 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard.com. D $ Two Scotts Barbecue — Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available.

Closed Sun. 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. L ¢-$ Westside Social — “Reimagined” Americanstyle tavern with locally sourced, house-made appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées.

Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 4535877. westside.social. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$

UPTOWN Bombay Cuisine — Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India. Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available. 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. eastownbombaycuisine.com.

L, D $

- What -

Top Team Project and Top Music Talent will each win $1049.00.

- When -

- Why -

#GRSummerProject is an initiative created to provide funding, resources and mentors to Grand Rapids area students to help them implement changes they want to see in the community.

Facebook grsummerproject.org.

Friday July 20, 2019 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Deadline to submit your music or sign up is 7/13.

Grsummerproject.org

- Where H.O.M.E. at The B.O.B. (First Floor) 20 Monroe Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

- Who West Michigan community members

Create ...

Brewery Vivant — Beer and food in tradition of French and Belgian country dishes. Housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Brick Road Pizza — Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (gluten-free crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Brown Butter Creperie & Café — Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. 1436 Wealthy St SE, 288-5038. brownbuttercrepes.com. B, L, D (Wed-Sat) ¢ Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/ vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chez olga.com. L, D ¢-$ The Commons — 1970s-themed restaurant with “retro comfort food.” Full bar, including craft beer

An Impression

SINCE 1968 . . .

Registered Landscape Architects 4353 Three Mile Road N.E. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 616-363-6400 www.kappeslandscapes.com

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 63

food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

and ’70s-inspired cocktails. Takeout available.

Closed Mon. 547 Cherry St SE, 458-2704. L, D $ Curry Kitchen — Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. currykitchen gr.com. L, D $ Danzón Cubano — Authentic Cuban fare, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as locally made and Cuban sodas. Full bar; happy hour specials Mon-Thu. Open daily. 1 Carlton Ave SE, 988-9788. danzoncubano.com. L, D $ FDonkey Taqueria — Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr.com. B (SatSun), L, D ¢-$ East West Brewing Co. — Traditional Americanstyle beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. 1400 Lake Dr SE, 288-5250. eastwestbrewingcompany.com. L (Fri-Sat), D ¢-$ Eklectico Greek Kouzina — Scratch-made traditional Greek entrées, gyros, desserts and more.

Catering and take-out available. Closed Sun. 2401 Eastern Ave SE, 591-2132. eklecticogreekkouzina. com. D ¢ Electric Cheetah — Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Open daily.

1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electriccheetah. com. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Elk Brewing Co. — Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. 700 Wealthy St SE, 2385227. elkbrewing.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢ Erb Thai — Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily.

950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. L, D ¢ FForty Acres Soul Kitchen — “Authentically American” southern comfort food, featuring po’boys, grits, gumbo and more. To-go catering available.

Closed Mon. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 481-6971. forty acresgr.com. L, D $ Gojo Ethiopian Cuisine & Deli — Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopiancuisine. com. L, D $ The Green Well Gastro Pub — Menu features comfort fare with a flair, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local breweries. Open daily.

924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. thegreenwell.com.

L, D $-$$ 64 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

FGrove — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course offerings. Vegan menu available. Full bar. Open daily. 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. L, D $$ Hancock — Nashville hot chicken restaurant with sandwiches, fried chicken, an assortment of Southern picnic sides, salads and desserts. Also serves breakfast. Open daily. 1157 Wealthy St. SE, 805-4232. hancockgr.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Harmony Brewing Co. — Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Open daily. 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. L, D $ Jonny B’z — Beef, turkey and veggie hot dogs available, as well as burgers, sandwiches, wings, ribs and kids menu. Full bar. Closed Sun. 701 Wealthy St SE, 551-1108. jonnybz.com. L, D $ Kelvin & Co. — Urban barbecue restaurant offering meats smoked fresh daily, handcrafted sides and vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Menu items include brisket, chicken and pork sandwiches; meat, including sausage and wings.

Open daily. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 833-535-8467. kelvinandcompany.com. L, D. ¢

oyster bar and rotating specials. Carry-out available. Closed Sun. 1146 Wealthy St SE, 288-5646. wikiwikipokeshop.com. L, D ¢-$ The Winchester — Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. B (Sat-Sun), L, D ¢-$ Yesterdog — Specializes in the “good old-fashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. 1505 Wealthy St SE, 3360746. yesterdog.com. L, D ¢ Zivio — Modern European tavern and grill serving Bosnian cuisine melded with Turkish, Greek and other Central European countries cooking traditions. Salads, wraps, gyros, dinner entrées. Full bar. Open daily. Catering available. 724 Wealthy St SE, 608-3534. ziviogr.com. L, D $$

EAST GRAND RAPIDS Big Bob’s Pizza — Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza. com. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$

Little Africa Ethiopian Cuisine — Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only.

Closed Sun and Mon. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169.

Facebook. L, D ¢

Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen — Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. 2213 Wealthy St SE, 805-5231. carolinalck.com. D $

Maru Sushi & Grill — Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items.

Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. L, D $-$$

Derby Station — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. Open daily. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derbystation. com. L, D $

Matchbox Diner & Drinks — Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts. Carry-out available. Open daily. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner.com. B, L, D $

José Babushka’s — Starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas.com. L, D $

The Pub at Paddock — “Happy hour all the time” with elevated pub fare. Full bar. Closed Mondays.

1033 Lake Dr SE, 356-2627. thegilmorecollection. com/pubatpaddock. D ¢-$ FTerra — Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing.

Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch (Sat-Sun), L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Wealthy Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup; pizza available after 4 pm. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Wikiwiki Poke Shop — Fast-casual seafood restaurant featuring customizable poke bowls, plus

Olive’s — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. L, D ¢-$ Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine — Large selection of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Serves beer and wine. Takeout and catering available.

Closed Sun-Mon. 2228 Wealthy St SE, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. L (Tue-Fri), D ¢-$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/roses. L, D $

ADA/CASCADE/LOWELL Ada Pour House — Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a twist on comfort food. Salads, sand-

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Aryana Restaurant & Bar — Comfortable dining room in Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1775. hiaryana.com. B, L, D $-$$ Big Boiler Brewing — Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open daily. 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboilerbrewing. com. D $ The Blue Moose Sports Pub — Farm-to-table sports bar features a food menu made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. 6240 28th St SE, 734-6333. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Cascade Roadhouse — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar.

Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 259-7439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. L, D ¢-$ Cork Wine & Grille — Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille.com.

L, D $-$$ Dan’s Diner — Formerly Pal’s Diner. Retro-style diner with both classic and upscale breakfast and lunch options; breakfast served all day. Beer, wine and vodka. Closed Mon. 6503 28th St SE, 719-0304. dansdinergr.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Emonae Korean BBQ — Korean delicacies and tabletop grills allow patrons to grill meats and veggies to their liking. Soups, chicken, beef, pork, vegetarian, seafood. No alcohol. Delivery available. Closed Mon. 6246 28th St SE, 649-3984. emonaekoreanbbq.com. L, D $-$$ The Euro Bistro — European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas.

Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. L (MonFri), D $-$$ Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turn-ofcentury building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollection. com/flatriver. L, D $-$$ Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi. com. L, D ¢-$$ 66 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

La Laguna — Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu. No alcohol.

Open daily. 6250 28th St SE, 805-8821. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Main Street BBQ — Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering. Takeout/delivery at 1539 Plainfield Ave NE. Full bar. Open daily. 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell. com. L, D ¢-$

Thornapple Brewing Co. — Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert.

Brunch on Sun. 6262 28th St SE, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. L (Sat), D $ Trailhead Café — Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. 1200 East Paris Ave SE, 284-3664. trailheadcafegr.com. B, L ¢

Zeytin

Marco New American Bistro — French country casual offers small, medium and large plates for dinner fare; salads, sandwiches and mains for lunch.

Full bar. Takeout menu. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. L, D $-$$ Mynt Fusion Bistro — Thai, Korean and Chinese.

Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion. com. L, D ¢-$ Noco Provisions — Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. L, D $ Nonna’s: The Trattoria — Fresh, European-style pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch.

Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch Tues-Sat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna.com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$ Noto’s Old World Italian Dining — Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare.

Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosold world.com. D $-$$ Osaka Steakhouse & Japanese Restaurant — Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. 4977 28th St SE, 419-4628. Facebook. L, D $ Sapporo Ramen & Noodle Bar — Fresh, traditional Japanese “soul food” with an innovative twist. GF options available. No alcohol. Takeout available. Closed Mon. 5570 28th St SE, Cascade, 608-6657. sappororamenbar.com. L, D ¢-$ Schnitz Ada Grill — Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzadagrill.com. L, D ¢-$$ Shepards Grill & Tavern — Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Vintage Prime & Seafood — Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. vintageatcork.com. D $$ Zeytin — Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.

Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. 7437 River St, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkish restaurant.com. L, D $

NORTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS 7 Monks Taphouse — Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads. Open daily. 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/grand-rapids. L, D ¢-$ Birch Lodge — Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. 732 Michigan St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. L, D ¢ Blue Water Grill — Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails.

Open daily. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/bluewater. L, D $-$$ Bud & Stanley’s — Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more.

Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol.

Open daily. 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. L, D ¢-$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

wiches and entrées, including fish and steak.

Craft beers and wine. Closed Sun. 6749 E Fulton St, Ada, 920-7941. pourhouseusa.com. L, D $-$$

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Charlie’s Bar & Grille — Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also, Mexican fare and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charliesbarandgrille. com. L, D ¢-$ Cheer’s Good Time Saloon — Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment.

Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids. com. B, L, D ¢ Cheshire Grill — Sandwiches, soups, salads, creative burgers. Open daily for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. No alcohol. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 635-2713. cheshiregrill.com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$ Creston Brewery — More than a dozen housebrewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. 1504 Plainfield Ave NE, 805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. L, D ¢-$ Erb Thai Xpress — Thai fare for takeout only.

No alcohol. Closed Sun. 820 Michigan St NE, 454-0444. erbthaigr.com/erbthai_xpress.html. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Flo’s Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Bar — Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 7851001. flossportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$ Fred’s Italian Restaurant — Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredsitalian.net. L, D ¢-$ Fuji Yama Asian Bistro — Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabistro.com. L, D ¢-$

and ice cream bar. Outdoor seating. No alcohol.

Open daily. 3123 Leonard St NE, 805-5599. gussoriginal.com. B, L, D ¢

with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447-7750. eatatreds.com.

L, D $-$$

Jaku Sushi — Japanese and Korean fare, including a large selection of sushi; plus, bento, bibimbap, hibachi, katsu, udon and more. Open daily.

2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 649-0407. jakusushi. com. L, D $

Rezervoir Lounge — Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. L (TueSun), D ¢-$

Kitchen 67 — Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes Brann’s sizzling steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more. Full bar with craft beers. Open daily. 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3778. kitchen67.com. L, D ¢-$

Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texas-style barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riogrand steakhouse.com. L, D $-$$

La Huasteca — Homemade recipes, veg-etarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. L, D ¢ Lai Thai Kitchen — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen.net. L, D ¢-$

Sheshco Grill — Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol.

Open daily. 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.net. L, D $

Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen — Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily. 2869 Knapp St NE, 608-6912. licarispizzakitchen.com. L, D $

Thai Chef — Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. L, D $

Lucy’s Café — Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-your-own breakfast plates. Open daily. 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149. lucys cafegr.com. B, L $-$$

Vander Mill — Seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients. Starters, salads, entrées and large plates served family style. Hard ciders on tap. Open daily. 505 Ball Ave NE, 259-8828. vandermill.com. L, D (Mon-Sat) $-$$

Mill Creek Tavern — Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7843806. millcreektaverngr.com. L, D ¢-$

NORTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS

Ming Ten — All-you-can-eat Japanese/Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily. 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant. com. L, D ¢-$

Golden Wok — Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar.

Open daily. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com.

L, D ¢-$

Nick Fink’s — Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails.

Closed Sun and Mon. 3965 West River Dr NE, 7849886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. D $

Gravity Taphouse Grille — Menu items pair with craft beer suggestions. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. 3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. L, D ¢-$

Poke Toki — Build-your-own bowls featuring a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese and Korean cuisine. Catering available. Closed Sun. 5150 Northland Dr NE, 729-4414. poketoki.com. L, D $

Graydon’s Crossing — Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscrossing.com. L, D $

Palio — Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour.

Open daily. 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. palio grandrapids.com. L, D $-$$

Gus’s Original — Appetizers, salads and soups, stone-oven pizzas, gourmet sandwiches; coffees

The Score — Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescorerestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$

Reds At Thousand Oaks — Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées.

Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio

FAmore Trattoria Italiana — Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports.

Italian wines and liqueurs. House-made desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com.

D (Tue-Sat) $ China Chef — Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Open daily. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. L, D ¢-$ China City — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. L, D ¢-$ DeHop’s Brewing Co. and Café — Specialty and build-your-own burgers, “authentic Mexican” tacos, salads and sharable appetizers. Closed SunMon. 363 Cummings Ave NW, Walker, 805-3363. dehops.com. D $ Empire Chinese Buffet II — All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empire chinesebuffet2.com. L, D ¢-$ Continued on page 72 JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 69

chef profile

BY JAYE BEELER

Food and a history lesson New Hotel Mertens’ Anthony Tangorra and Jacqueline Kastelz offer pre-French Revolution cuisine inside historic building.

70 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Kastelz easily relays the pre-French Revolution history behind the bite-sized cakes called canelés. “The nuns from a monastery in Bordeaux created these little cakes with egg yolks, a byproduct of their winemaking process that used egg whites to clarify the wines. Canelés are traditionally baked in copper molds, coated with beeswax, (which) gives you this wonderful crust — the inside is almost pudding-like.

It’s a very temperamental cake and 90% of bakers in the United States use plastic molds, but we go the traditional route to get that beautiful crust.”

“Freshness matters to us.

Technique and tradition are very important here.”

ANTHONY TANGORRA

Kastelz said she finds it “thrilling to go back to the roots” of these classic French dishes and “explore these traditions that developed hundreds of years ago.”

From the moment you step through the vestibule, the smell of boeuf bourguignon envelopes you. Served with fingerling potatoes, pearl onions, buttered mushrooms and baby carrots, the boeuf bourguignon “is braised all day for absolutely falling apart tenderness,” Kastelz said.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID SPARKS

Above: New Hotel Mertens dining room.

Bottom: Chef Jacqueline Kastelz prepares green beans before plating the final dish (top).

Located in a historic 1914 building, New Hotel Mertens creates a romantic allure with its preserved fleur-de-lis tiled floor, gorgeous windows, architectural secrets and patina of faded wallpaper — altogether a bygone luxury that feels lush and lovely like the perfect cashmere.

“We walked into this beautiful space — it felt Titanic era in its grandness — with respect for the building, the menu, the history,” said owner Anthony Tangorra, who grew up in New York, where his foodie family lingered around family meals in French fashion.

In 2014, when Tangorra claimed the shuttered New Hotel Mertens, he delved into the history of the hotel — researching extensively at the Grand Rapids Public Library and Grand Rapids Historical Society, which also conducted a seminar for the culinary team.

“We strive to tell the story of the founders of this historic hotel. We even went so far as to reproduce the original cocktail menu of New Hotel Mertens — down to the signature drinks and fonts. So yeah, the passion comes naturally around here,” Tangorra said.

“We’re storytellers here. Our menu is telling food stories,” said Jacqueline Kastelz, the restaurant’s young chef who helms a kitchen staff of 12.

JACQUELINE KASTELZ & ANTHONY TANGORRA Title: Chef and owner

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID SPARKS

Location: 35 Oakes St. SW

The tournedos Rossini with a 5-ounce filet mignon topped with seared foie gras and black truffle and port sauce delivers decadence. “The sauce tastes like velvet,” Kastelz said. “It’s an all-day reduction. We reduce down a full stock pot of beef stock to make this particular sauce.”

You will love the steak frites — an insanely delicious deal for $25: USDA prime sirloin (butchered in-house) with maître d’hôtel butter that’s whirled together with parsley, lemon juice, salt and pepper. And the hand-cut frites are impeccably crispy, salty and feathery.

There’s also Grade-A foie gras on housemade pain au lait toast and Michigan cherry compote; saffron-scented bouillabaisse crowded with shrimp, clams, mussels, scallops, fingerling potatoes and leeks; and a quiche Lorraine, tart and smoky with grilled bacon lardons.

“You can indulge here,” said Kastelz, who began her career as a chef at Louis Benton Steakhouse and is a 2013 graduate of Grand Rapids Community College’s Secchia Institute of Culinary Education School and Calvin Christian High School.

New Hotel Mertens recently added a patisserie with outdoor seating, flower bouquets and display windows filled with sugar sprinkled pastries.

Kastelz oversees all the baking — think pastel-hued squidgy macaroons, orange brioche cakes, olive bread, crusty baguettes and buttery croissants stuffed with jamon and Gruyere — using a Rational SelfCookingCenter, a high-tech wonder oven.

“I’m the only Rational-certified chef in the area and only one of 25 in the U.S.,” Kastelz said. Tangorra introduced the hightech oven to his Grand Rapids bakeshop because he often used them when he designed airport lounge kitchens.

“It’s unmatched in its precision,” he said.

New Hotel Mertens also opened Haute Rooftop Lounge last fall, outfitted with white distressed French cane furniture, sparkly lights and jute rugs. Anchoring the

New Hotel Mertens Bircher Muesli A chilled breakfast dish commonly served early in the day in Europe. (makes 4 servings)

Above: New Hotel Mertens bar area.

rooftop’s drawing room is a lavishly gilded French provincial antique sofa (procured from Miami). Open at 4 p.m. daily, the lounge menu serves charcuterie, seafood, pâté and signature cocktails.

Tangorra summed up the mission of New Hotel Mertens, “Freshness matters to us. Technique and tradition are very important here.”

New Hotel Mertens is open at 6 a.m.

Monday through Friday and offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and delivery. GR

4 whole Granny Smith apples, washed and dried 4 cups rolled oats ½ cup chopped dried apricots ½ cup honey 1 cup apple juice 3 cups vanilla yogurt 1 cup crème fraîche 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract) Preparation: Shred apples using the fine side of a box grater until apples are thin ribbons; set aside.

Combine dry ingredients — rolled oats and chopped dried apricots — into a bowl and mix together. Combine all remaining ingredients — honey, apple juice, vanilla yogurt, crème fraîche and vanilla bean paste — and hand mix all together until thoroughly blended. Fold in apples, cover and chill overnight before serving chilled the following day.

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 71

food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Continued from page 69

Franco’s Pizza — Italian entrées, stromboli, pizza and subs. Takeout available. No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. D ¢-$ Fricano’s Pizza Restaurant — Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar. Closed Sun. 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanos pizza.com. D ¢-$ Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — Pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsupremebuffet.letseat.at. L, D ¢ Home Team Grill — Sports-themed eatery with a selection of local, domestic and international beers. Open daily. 4322 Remembrance Rd, 5513457. hometeamgrill.wordpress.com. L, D ¢-$ Hunan Chinese Restaurant — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. L, D ¢-$ The Landing — Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/the-landing-restaurant.

B, L, D $ Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 791-6660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. L, D ¢-$ Perrin Brewing Co. — Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 551-1957. perrin brewing.com. L, D ¢ Stan Diego Baja Taco Kitchen — Baja Californiainspired menu, featuring a-la-carte taco menu, chorizos, tamales, handcrafted margaritas and kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. 355 Wilson Ave NW, 591-9806. standiegogr.com. L, D ¢-$ Swan Inn Restaurant — Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Three Happiness Restaurant — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com.

L, D ¢-$ Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalker roadhouse.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $ 72 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

SOUTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS/ KENTWOOD 7 Mares — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$ Al-Bos Eurocafe-Bakery — Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos.com. L, D ¢-$ Asian Palace — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. No alcohol.

Closed Mon. 141 28th St SE, 534-7770. Facebook.

L, D ¢-$ Beltline Bar — Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service.

Open daily. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar. com. L, D $ Brass Ring Brewing — Small-batch, style-specific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood.

2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. L, D $ Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. L, D ¢-$ Cantina Mexican Grill — Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drive-thru window.

Outdoor patio. Open daily. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexicangrill.biz. L (SunThu), D $ Daddy Pete’s BBQ — Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. L, D ¢-$ East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily.

6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. L, D ¢-$

Florentine Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Lounge — Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza. com. L, D ¢-$ Ganders — Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews.

Open daily. 4747 28th St SE (inside DoubleTree Hotel), 957-1111. facebook.com/gandersgr.

B, L, D ¢-$$ Golden Gate — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. L, D ¢ Gursha Ethiopian Restaurant — Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol.

Open daily. 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009.

Facebook. L, D $ Hall Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner. Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com.

B, L, D ¢-$ India Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol.

Open daily. 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. L, D ¢-$ La Taqueria San Jose — Authentic Mexican fare in a casual, takeout setting. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1338 S Division Ave, 284-2297. Facebook. L, D ¢ Last Chance Tavern and Grill — Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelastchancetavern. com. L, D ¢ Le Kabob — Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carryout available. No alcohol. Open daily. 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. L, D ¢-$

El Arriero Mexican Grill — Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections. Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas. Open daily. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexicangrill.com.

L, D ¢-$

Mi Tierra — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drivethru. No alcohol. Open daily. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D ¢

El Globo Restaurant — Authentic Mexican fare; weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 2019 S Division Ave, 734-6869. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Mikado Sushi — Sushi and sashimi à la carte.

Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine.

Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com/main. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$

FireRock Grille — Guests can cook signature dishes on 500-degree lava stone. Offers soups, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily. 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. L D $

Nu-Thai Bistro — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries. No alcohol.

Open daily. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthai bistro.com. L, D ¢-$ Continued on page 76

T H E H O M E O F Q U A L I T Y, S T Y L E & P E R S O N A L S E R V I C E

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BY AMY RUIS

Rosé for a summer’s day

Making rosé When rosé is made, the “pink” comes from maceration. This means a grape will be “juiced” then left in contact with the skin of the grapes for a period of time.

The longer (hours or days versus weeks or months for reds) they’re on the skins, the more intensely pink it becomes. A different method, “saignée,” is when red wine is “bled off” while it’s still a really dark pink.

Pairing suggestions Pinot noir gives bright acidity and undertones of watermelon and delicately ripe strawberries. Hailing from Germany, France, New Zealand or Oregon, pair it with a cheese plate featuring fresh goat cheese and tangy fruits.

Syrah is typically a rich and intense wine. It’s full of fruit (but not sweet), contains more tannins and big, bold cherry fruits. It pairs well with richer foods like herby pork shoulder and weighty Italian dishes with their tendency toward adapting rich, round flavors.

Mourvedre/grenache/cinsault is most often blended to make Provence (France) rosé. A few decades ago, Provencal wines were not faring well. A massive turnaround was due to rosé production. These are generally made in volume, versatile to palates, occasions and generally (but not always) inexpensive.

They’re minerally and fresh with herby aromas like lavender or rosemary. Because of their versatility and ease, they make a great brunch option.

74 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Grenache – When vinified “pink” in the Tavel region, it’s big and bold with huge structure and intense summer berry flavor wrapped in some tannins. It is best paired with a charcuterie board surrounded by fatty meats and French cheeses.

Tempranillo – Spanish rosé, often from Rioja, is midrange on the pink spectrum and has great balance between wild berry fruits and savory herbaceousness. Green herbal notes and wisps of wild raspberry say yes to summer paella or a grill session with barbecue chicken.

Cabernet Sauvignon – If you know anything about cabernet, it always wants to be king. So it requests juicing exclusively by the saignée method; it is regal ruby red and makes you question if you’re drinking a red! With more acidity and bright cherry notes, fewer tannins than red, pair with foods you’d normally pair cab with — lamb and beef.

— Amy Ruis, owner of Art of the Table and Aperitivo, is a wine enthusiast who is working on her Level II Sommelier certification.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY iSTOCK

By 2017, options (for rosés) were becoming more available as well as palatable (both in flavor and in price).

WHILE THERE ARE SEVERAL KINDS of wine I enjoy in the summer, it’s been fun to discover that rosé hits the spot for many meals and moments. It took me a minute to decide I enjoy it, but now I drink it all four seasons as it has become almost commonplace. In 2017, when I wrote my first rosé article for this magazine, I honed in on the fact that in 2006, options were few and far between — and they were relatively expensive.

By 2017, options were becoming more available as well as palatable — both in flavor and in price.

Fast forward to 2019, and we’ve gained a plethora of options — from ultra-cheap to the nuanced, more expensive options. It seems every store sells rosé these days, and you’ve got to know what you’re in for.

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Continued from page 72

The Old Goat — Creative cuisine from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. B (Mon-Fri), L, D ¢-$ Pal’s Indian Cuisine — Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily.

2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsindiancuisine. com. L, D $ Pho Anh Trang — Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. L, D ¢-$ Pho Soc Trang — Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. L, D ¢-$ Pietro’s Italian Restaurant — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 4523228. pietrosgr.com. L, D $

Village Inn Pizza & Sports Grille — Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet.

Full bar. Open daily. 2215 44th St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. L, D ¢-$ Wei Wei Palace — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. L, D $ Yummy Wok — Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

SOUTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS 84th Street Pub & Grille — American fare from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu.

Daily specials. Open daily. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Blue Ginger Asian Kitchen — Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. L, D ¢-$

Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban. com. L, D $-$$

Far-East Chinese Restaurant — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carry-out and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Shiraz Grille — Authentic Persian cuisine: firegrilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar.

Closed Mon. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shiraz grille.com. L (Fri-Sun), D $-$$

Frankie V’s Pizzeria & Sports Bar — Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Full bar. Open daily. 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. L, D ¢-$

Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni.net.

L, D ¢-$$

Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. L, D $

Taquería El Rincón Mexicano — Wide variety of Mexican breakfast, small plates, dinner dishes and soups, including several vegetarian options.

No alcohol. Closed Mon. 2055 28th St, 246-7000.

Facebook. B, L, D ¢ Thai Express — Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Thai Fusion — Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. L, D ¢-$ Tokyo Grill & Sushi — Tatami rooms, sushi bars.

Hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrillsushi.com.

L, D ¢-$ 76 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Kitzingen Brewery — German-style appetizers and entrées, plus kids menu and some American classics. Selection of wine and locally made German craft beer. Closed Sun-Mon. 1760 44th St SW, 805-5077. kitzingen-brewery.com.

L, D ¢-$ Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu.

Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1742 28th St SW, 2612280. lindomexicogr.com. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Main Street Pub — Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Full bar. Open daily. 1730 28th St SW, 532-2510. mainstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Mi Casa Restaurante — Fresh, authentic Dominican appetizers, dishes and seafood, plus weekly specials, in Dominican-themed, family-

friendly atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed MonTues. 334 Burton St SW, 350-9123. micasagr. com. L, D ¢-$ Monelli’s Italian Grill & Sports Bar — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com.

L, D ¢-$ Noble — Breakfast favorites along with vegan and gluten-free options, handhelds, burgers and small bites. Open daily. 1851 44th St SW, Wyoming, 530-8750. eatnoble.com. B, L $ Pete’s Grill & Tavern — Casual bar and grill with tavern burgers, Detroit style pizza, sandwiches and entrees. Open daily. 2588 84th St SW, Byron Center, 878-9582. petesgrillandtavern.com. L, D $ Tamales Mary — Tamale-centered Mexican restaurant featuring 15 types of tamales, plus other Mexican dishes and daily buffet specials. No alcohol. Open daily. 1253 Burton St SW, 288-5007. tamalesmarygr.com. L, D ¢ Woody’s Press Box — Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-2400. spectrumlanes.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D $

GRANDVILLE/HUDSONVILLE/ GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP Bangkok Taste — Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 674 Baldwin St, 667-8901. bangkoktaste.com.

L, D ¢-$ The Dungeon — Mexican food and American favorites. Specialty burgers. Full bar with Michigan craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com.

L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ El Burrito Loco — More than 70 Mexican selections, plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily. 4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 530-9470. elburrito loco4.com. L, D ¢-$ GrandVilla — Steaks, all-you-can-eat fish, specialty burgers, daily specials, salad bar. Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com.

L, D ¢-$ Hudsonville Grille — Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hudsonvillegrille. com. B, L, D ¢-$ Osgood Brewing Co. — Craft brewery serves shareables, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, pasta

and salads. Kids menu. Open daily. 4051 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 432-3881. osgoodbrewing.com.

L, D ¢-$ Pike 51 Brewing Co./Hudsonville Winery — Craft brewery and winery under one roof. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily.

3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudson villewinery.com. L, D ¢-$ Rainbow Grill — Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan. com. B, L, D ¢-$ Rush Creek Bistro — Diverse menu in club-like surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. L, D $ Sonder Eatery – Focused on fresh foods including greens, sandwiches and shareables. Items include deviled eggs, chicken and waffles, sloppy Joes and more. Full bar. Daily specials and weekend brunch. Closed Mondays. 3380 Chicago Dr in Hudsonville, 616-202-6379. sondereatery.com.

B, L $ White Flame Brewing Co. — Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open daily. 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com.

L, D ¢-$

ROCKFORD AREA Bostwick Lake Inn — Menu includes steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Large deck. Full bar. Open daily. 8521 Belding Rd, 874-7290. thegilmore collection.com/bostwick. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Boulder Creek Restaurant — Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com/res taurant. L, D ¢-$ Cedar Springs Brewing Co. — German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. L, D $ Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven.com. L, D $-$$ Honey Creek Inn — Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com. L, D ¢-$

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3250 28th St SE, Grand Rapids • 616.942.5112

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 77

food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Hot Box BBQ — Smoked brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, brisket and more. Closed Sun. 110 Courtland St, Rockford, 951-7160. Facebook. L, D $ Marinades Pizza Bistro — Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer.

Catering. Open daily. 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro.com. L, D ¢ Ramona’s Table — Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, burgers, small plates, homemade desserts.

Farm-to-table specials. Michigan beers, wine.

Kids menu. Open daily. 17 Squires St Square NE, 951-7100. ramonastable.com. L, D ¢-$ Rockford Brewing Co. — Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Handcrafted brews on tap. Open daily. 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrewing. com. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Timbers Inn — Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar. Open daily. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn. net. L (Wed-Sun), D ¢-$

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Anna’s House — Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and exceptional desserts; dinner menu, too. No alcohol. Open daily. 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672-6627. annashouseus. com. B, L $ Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant — Breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. Menu includes extensive gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options.

No alcohol. Open daily. 722 Leonard St NW, 4543098; 2650 East Beltline Ave SE (Centerpointe Mall), 956-7901; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurant. com. B, L, D $ Bagel Beanery — Bagel and coffee cafè offering healthy whole grain and sugary sweet bagels, breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Magnum coffee. No alcohol. Open daily. Catering available.

455 Michigan St NE, 235-7500; 2845 Breton Rd SE, 245-4220; 5316 Clyde Park Ave SW, 2499500. bagelbeanery.com. B, L, D ¢ Big E’s Sports Grill — Sports lounge serving pizza, classic American appetizers and other entrées.

Full bar includes a variety of Michigan-made beer and cider. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. 2321 East Beltline Ave SE, 608-8825. 710 Monroe Ave NW, 512-5716. biges sportsgrill.com. L, D ¢-$ Brann’s Steakhouse & Sports Grille — Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S 78 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 2857800. branns.com. L, D $ First Wok — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. 2301 44th St SE, 2810681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstwokgr.com. L, D $ Grand Coney — Classic diner offering custom hot dogs, traditional breakfast items and comfort foods. No alcohol. Open daily. Downtown location open 24 hours. 809 Michigan St NE, 7765580; 5121 28th St, 930-3596; 6101 Lake Michigan Dr, Allendale, 895-9999. thegrandconey. com. B, L, D ¢ Herb & Fire Pizzeria — Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-yourown pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria.com. L, D $ HopCat — Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature crack fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 4514677; 84 W. Eighth St in Holland, 965-9780; 2183 East Beltline Ave NE. hopcatgr.com. L, D ¢-$

Ave SW, 452-1266; 455 Burton St SW, 248-9099; 1024 Bridge St NW, 475-8000; Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW. tacosgr.com. L, D ¢-$ The Omelette Shoppe — Fourteen signature omelettes, selection of quiches and baked goods. No alcohol. Open daily. 545 Michigan St NE, 7265800; 1880 Breton Rd SE, 726-7300. omelette shoppe.com. B, L ¢ Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. 122 Monroe Center NW, 773-1687; 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1100; 19 N Main St, Rockford, 866-0666. uccellos.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Pizzeria — Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes.

Full bar. 6650 E Fulton St, 676-5401, vitales ada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 6622244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales.com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$

Peppino’s Pizzeria and Sports Grille — Italian/ American menu. Full bar. Open daily. 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. L, D ¢-$$ Pita House — Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepita house.net. L, D ¢ Real Food Café — Fresh, locally sourced traditional favorites, scrambles and made-fromscratch baked goods; plus, soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. Cash only. Closed Mon. 2419 Eastern Ave SE, 241-4080; 3514 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-1808. Facebook. B, L ¢ Red Geranium — Breakfast and lunch favorites, omelettes, pancakes and burgers. No alcohol.

Open daily. 6670 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9800; 5751 Byron Center Ave SW, 532-8888. redgeranium cafe.com. B, L ¢ Sundance Bar & Grill — Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sundancegrill.com. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) $ Tacos El Caporal — Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, 261-2711. B, L, D ¢ Tacos El Cuñado — Fajitas, tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare. No alcohol. Locations are individually owend and operated. 1342 Grandville

Dining Guide Legend Grand Rapids Magazine has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers.

B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner ¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)* $ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée.

- — Reviewed in this issue — Chef Profile in this issue ➧ — New listing O — GRM’s 2018 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2018 Dining Award Winner Additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email cdewey@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

STAY AND PLAY New hotel packages released to enhance your experience at CityFlatsHotel 866 609 CITY

C I T Y F L AT S H O T E L . C O M

cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN

New City Neighbors serves up job opportunities through its CSA farm and bakery.

Empowering youth, feeding the neighborhood

BY ANN BYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN COMMUNITY SUPPORTED agriculture.

Afterschool programs. Community garden.

Outdoor café. These disparate outreach programs don’t seem like they’d all fit in one organization, but New City Neighbors combines them in one place and with one vision: to create “a city of peace and prosperity.”

Located in the middle of a northeast side neighborhood on the grounds of Fourth Church, New City Neighbors reaches deep into the community by offering work opportunities for teens, afterschool and summer programming for grades 1-5, a middle school bakery program and shares in its CSA farm. In July and August, the New City Café is open each Thursday serving soups, salads and pizza. The first day of business is July 4.

Nearly every foot of the 6 acres of Fourth Church that isn’t a building or parking lot is plowed and used for planting. A small greenhouse and several high tunnels dot the property with a small section dedicated to a community garden for neighbors eager to grow their own flowers, fruits and vegetables.

“We grow food for a 33-week season for over 250 families through our CSA farm share program,” said Lance Kraai, farm director for New City Neighbors.

“We grow over 40 different types of fruits and vegetables on 3 acres.”

Name it and they grow it, except for melons and corn (which take up too much space): gooseberries, Brussels sprouts, carrots, beans, beets, garlic, onions, strawberries, tomatoes, squash, blueberries. Kraai estimated over 30,000 pounds of harvest every year.

Right: Mercy Bradley helps her mom Megan pack fresh produce at the community supported agriculture pickup. Inset: Turnips grown at New City Farm.

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 81

cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN

Part of that harvest goes to creating the soups, salads and pizza toppings served at New City Café each July and August. The café is open the same day that CSA shares are picked up, making it a busy place each Thursday from noon-6:30 p.m.

“Our primary goal, and what we always come back to, is how we can get students involved, empower them and help them see what they’re capable of. We also want to be a place where neighbors can meet, as well as increase access to fresh produce.”

KELLY HAGMEYER

“It’s designed so everyone attached to this community can be involved,” said Kelly Hagmeyer, interim executive director.

New City Neighbors is really about the kids, though. Eric Schalk, who was the leader of youth activities for Fourth Church a dozen years ago, wanted to reach the kids who lived in the neighborhood. Schalk is now pastor of Fourth, and New City Neighbors has grown exponentially and intertwined all the programs since it began in 2007.

New City Bakery teaches middle school students how to work hard, have fun and develop job skills such as showing up on time and multitasking. It also supplies New City Café with all baked goods, including scones, cookies and muffins.

New City Café sells the baked goods and sources its produce from New City Farm. The café serves food to those who come to pick up their CSA share grown on the farm. All these outreach programs are staffed in part by high school students.

“Our goal is to not only provide kids with job skills but with community, as well,” said Danah Montgomery, high school and intern director for New City Neighbors.

“We demand high quality, and they deliver that. We give them space to fail but also recognize their potential.”

New City Neighbors employs about 20 young people a year, six in the afterschool program and 12 to 14 on the farm and in the café. They come from different racial and socioeconomic backgrounds, and are equally divided between male and female. Pay is $10.50 an hour.

82 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

Without them, New City Neighbors can’t do what it does. The students gain culinary and team-building experience, help with tutoring and social media, and learn communication and marketing skills.

“We could not provide the quality programs we do without them; we would not survive,” Montgomery said.

Joel Schramm, former kitchen director, puts them to work making all the soups and salads, taking orders and firing up the pizza oven.

“We use what’s ripe on the farm that week to make the soups,” he said. “It’s great for kids to see the circle from planting to harvest to eating. And the quality of the soups is gourmet.

Below: Northview student Max Gage works in the “tunnels” planting. Bottom: Kyle VanEerden, community supported agriculture manager, chats with workers at New City Farm.

Above: Kelly Hagmeyer, interim executive director for New City Neighbors, at New City Farm.

Left: College intern Jamie Kuiper transplants lettuce at New City Farm.

New City Neighbors offers year-round programming for grades 1-5, with 30 children coming primarily from Kent Hills Elementary. Two vans are used to pick up the children after school and return them home; in the summer, children can be picked up and dropped off, as well.

High school students come mainly from Wellspring Prep and City High and the surrounding neighborhoods.

The nonprofit also is working with Berean Baptist Church on the northeast side to pilot a new afterschool site for students from Palmer Elementary School. It should be up to full strength this fall.

“We’ve had a lot of expansion in the last 12 years; we’ve been going slowly

and never had a program off campus,” Schramm said. “But Berean Baptist really wanted this program; so many kids were hanging out at the Van Belkum Library.”

Of the roughly $350,000-a-year budget for New City Neighbors, 20% to 25% is used to pay student workers. The rest goes toward employee salaries (five full time, several part time), the farm operation, and ingredients for the bakery and café. About 25% of income comes from the CSA farm and 5% from the café; the remaining 75% of the budget comes from grants and contributions. New City Neighbors has received grants from the Amway, Wege, Van Den Bosch and CDV5 foundations, as well as through the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its work on intercropping.

Intercropping is pairing different vegetables together in the same bed to maximize space and yield. Kraai, for example, plants lettuce between broccoli plants; the lettuce is harvested after 30 days while the broccoli is still small. Once the lettuce is harvested, the broccoli plants take the whole space and are ready for harvest in another month.

“This is the most square-foot-productive farm I’ve ever seen,” Schramm said. “We will grow as much on these 3 acres as a lot of farmers grow on 10. Space has forced us to be very creative and productive.”

For Kraai, it’s about providing meaningful work for young people. “I hope they learn the feeling of pride when they accomplish something on their own or as a team. I also hope they learn how to work with others in a diverse setting, and they learn important job skills such as taking initiative, problem-solving and customer service.”

For New City Neighbors, its mission is all about faith and helping students and the neighborhood.

“Our primary goal, and what we always come back to, is how we can get students involved, empower them and help them see what they’re capable of,” Hagmeyer said. “We also want to be a place where neighbors can meet, as well as increase access to fresh produce.”

Visit newcityneighbors.org for more information on the many New City Neighbors programs, how to donate and its Amazon wish list. GR JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 83

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You don’t have to go too far or even take more than a long weekend to make your excursion feel special. Between the Upper and Lower Peninsula of Michigan, there are endless places to visit and numerous ways to experience sandy beaches, historical sites, annual festivals or just enjoy the peacefulness of nature.

Whether your ideal getaway is a comfortable retreat with friends, family or colleagues in a luxury hotel with lake-view dining, or walking along the beach at dusk or learning about the rich and courageous history of those who travel the Great Lakes, there is a Michigan destination for you.

Whatever you’re in the mood for and whatever direction you choose, you’ll find excitement, entertainment and have some great memories to cherish when you plan a getaway in your home state. Don’t let summer disappear without sharing a weekend or two with the friends and family you enjoy.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GREAT LAKES SHIPWRECK MUSEUM

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he Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at the Whitefish Point Light Station in Paradise is one of Michigan’s most visited attractions, welcoming over 75,000 visitors each season (May 1 to Oct. 31). Located in an area known as Lake Superior’s “Shipwreck Coast” or “The Graveyard of Lake Superior” this region is the final resting place for more than 200 shipwrecks as part of the Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve. The museum features shipwreck artifacts (including the bell of the famous steamer Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank and took the lives of all 29 crewmembers on Nov. 10, 1975), artwork, shipwreck models and a series of maritime history programs during the season. Admission includes the restored 1861 Lightkeeper’s Quarters, the 1923 Lifeboat Station Surfboat House and the Whitefish Point Light Tower, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The museum also operates a seasonal bed-and-breakfast for those wishing to

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enhance their experience at this historic site. For more information, visit shipwreckmuseum.com.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

STAY AND PLAY IN MICHIGAN ’S TRUE NORTH

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hether you’re crossing the bridge to escape the city bustle or staying close to home this summer, you’ll find all your heart desires right in St. Ignace.

Explore the area’s rich and significant history as you discover landmarks, sites and museums showcasing the area’s French and Aboriginal roots. Soak in the sun on its sandy beaches and breezy boardwalk, or dine and unwind on one of the many outdoor, waterfront patios.

Day trips abound, from Woodland Dunes picnics to Soo Locks ship sightings, northern Paradise waterfalls to Huron Heritage villages and shops.

And if you’re dreaming of delicious fudge and bicycle-friendly streets, St. Ignace is the preferred port for a scenic boat ferry to Mackinac Island.

Year-round events draw in car enthusiasts, festivalgoers, art lovers, nature buffs and bridge walkers alike. Enjoy activities and entertainment every night of the week,

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all summer long — all in St. Ignace.

Visit St. Ignace — where small-town charm meets big-time fun.

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Mackinaw CITY

MACKINAW CITY

2019 Events in Mackinaw City

! s k r o w e Fir

July 4. . . . . . . . . . Waterfront Events & Fireworks July 20 . . . . . . . . 6th Annual Mustang Stampede Aug. 1 - 4. . . . . . . Rendezvous in Mackinaw Aug. 2 - 3 . . . . . . Mackinaw Historical Festival Aug. 2 - 3 . . . . . . Brews & Blues Aug. 9 - 11 . . . . . . Ironworkers Festival Aug. 24 - 25 . . . . Mackinaw City Arts & Crafts Show Aug. 24 . . . . . . . . 30th Annual Corvette Show Sept. 2. . . . . . . . . 62nd Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk Sept. 6 . . . . . . . . . 12th Annual Antique Tractor Parade Sept. 7 . . . . . . . . . Mackinaw Beer & Wine Festival Sept. 14 . . . . . . . . 23rd Annual Truck Parade of Lights Sept. 20 - 21 . . . . Trek the Mac

Every Friday Night at Dusk Over Lake Huron

Beginning Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.

15 Minute Ferry Ride to Mackinac Island Sandy Beaches • Lakeview Rooms Romantic Getaways • Beach Sunsets Walk to: Ferry Lines • Attractions Restaurants • Shopping • Night Life MUSIC IN MACKINAW

every Tuesday & Saturday evening at Conkling Heritage Park, July 4th – August 27th

NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT & LASER LIGHT SHOW at Mackinaw Crossings

Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau • 800-666-0160 • mackinawcity.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MACKINAW CITY MICHIGAN ’S FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION!

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rom the breath taking Mackinac Bridge to the one-of-a-kind Mackinac Island the Mackinaw Area boasts attractions and tours that cannot be experienced anywhere else.

After experiencing Mackinaw, you will understand why we’ve been named Michigan’s Favorite Vacation Destination.

Mackinaw City offers an abundance of things to do from exploring history to reenactments at Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, to flying high above the trees on the zip line at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, or above the waters while you parasail.

Browse through over 100 unique shops on Central Ave. and Mackinaw Crossings taking in the beautiful flowers and Victorian streetlamps along the way while savoring some delicious Mackinaw Fudge.

There is something for everyone no matter what your palette desires.

In the evenings stroll along the shore line take in the breathtaking sunsets or visit the Headlands International Dark Sky Park where celestial wonders beyond most can only imagine awaits you. With deep dark skies overhead, the vast expanse of Lake Michigan to the west, The Headlands is a unique gem in Michigan! There is never a shortage of things to do in beautiful Mackinaw City.

More than ever we are dedicated to creating the perfect Mackinaw City adventure that matches your interests, schedule and budget. The Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau is here to provide the personal attention that you deserve.

Visit our website at www.mackinawcity. com or call 1-800-666-0160 for more information or to receive a free 2019 Vacation Guide.

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BOOK YOUR TEAM RETREAT   

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 -  6/11/19 7:11 PM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HILLSDALE COLLEGE /THE ROCKWELL LAKE LODGE

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ockwell Lake Lodge, located on Hillsdale College’s G.H. Gordon Biological Station in Luther, Mich., is an upscale conference and retreat center where rustic ambiance, picturesque scenery, and first-class amenities are all supported by a professional and dedicated staff; together, they help make for a unique, relaxing, and unforgettable experience. The 16,000-square-foot lodge features 10 custom-furnished guest suites, a Great Room, intimate conference spaces, and the Lakeview Dining Room that is ideal for weddings, banquets, meetings, family reunions, and other events. It’s the perfect spot for groups between 20 and 80 people or individual guests alike. And the reviews are in! Guests have described The

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Rockwell Lake Lodge as “absolutely gorgeous,” “a hidden gem,” “elegant,” “classy,” and “an amazing place tucked away in the Michigan woods.”

The Lodge is located on 672 acres of rolling hills and natural forest, offering 12 miles of manicured hiking trails. The beautifully scenic and private Rockwell Lake nestles near the center of campus and provides undisturbed shoreline and wonderful fishing opportunities. It’s breathtaking during a winter’s snowstorm, a warm summer’s night, and every day in between. It is truly a hidden treasure, located just 90 minutes north of downtown Grand Rapids and 30 minutes south of Cadillac, in a gated community that provides both privacy and security.

Inside, guests can relax by the cozy stone fireplace, enjoy the high-end food service available in the Lodge’s on-site restaurant, or sip a glass of wine while enjoying conversation! Outside, the beautiful Rockwell Lake offers Jon boats, kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and wonderful fishing opportunities! Guests are also encouraged to explore the natural world surrounding the lodge with more than 10 miles of hiking and walking trails. Bike through the countryside, search for fossils, enjoy s’mores by the fire pit, play some volleyball, swim, fish, or just dream by the water’s edge as the sun goes down in the evenings. Professional events, weddings, or personal retreats — all are welcome at this Michigan treasure!

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

july events

A FEW GREAT THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH!

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SPECIAL EVENTS JULY 11-13 MUSKEGON’S 150TH CELEBRATION: Muskegon celebrates its anniversary with a three-day concert series; performers include Bret Michaels, Gretchen Wilson, Kansas, Warrant and Freddie Jackson. Begins 4 p.m. Thu. Heritage Landing, 1050 Seventh St., Muskegon. $50/three-day pass. celebrate150.com.

Don’t forget to mark your calendar!

92 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

THROUGH AUG. 28 KICKIN’ IT AT CALDER: Grand

Rapids Food Truck Association hosts food trucks every Tues. and Wed. 11 a.m.-1:45 p.m. at Calder Plaza. face book.com/grfoodtrucks.

See Special Events

JULY 11-20 - IONIA FREE FAIR: Midway, circus, antique village,

music concerts, parades, 4-H, monster truck throwdown. Ionia County Fairgrounds. ioniafreefair.com.

See Special Events

SPECIAL EVENTS JULY 6 GRAND RAPIDS FIREWORKS: Downtown fireworks at 10:30 p.m. with live music, activities, games, vendors and food beginning at 5 p.m. Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. experiencegr.com.

JULY 12 - HEART: Rock band performs Love Alive tour; also Sheryl Crow and Lucie Silvas. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena. vanandelarena.com.

See Music

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EXPERIENCE GR (TOP); CTY OF MUSKEGON (LEFT); SMG GR (OPPOSITE PAGE)

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To list your event send calendar information to Grand Rapids Magazine, c/o

Calendar Editor, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 331, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, email caleditor@ geminipub.com, fax (616) 459-4800. High-resolution photos welcomed. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue by the first of the month.

SPECIAL EVENTS Through Aug. 18 – Summer of Brunch Food Truck Rally: Food trucks at the Fulton Street Artisans Market every Sunday. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

1145 E. Fulton St. facebook.com/grfoodtrucks.

p.m. in Community Church parking lot, 7239 Thornapple River Drive SE. Fireworks at dusk at Ada Christian School, 6206 Ada Drive SE. adamichigan.org.

Through Aug. 28 – Dancing on the Grand: Live music and dancing every Wed. 7-9 p.m.

Waterfront Stadium, 101 North Harbor, Grand Haven. facebook.com/dancingonthegrand.

July 4 – Cascade Township Parade and Celebration: Parade at 10 a.m. from Cascade/ Burton to 28th St./Thornhills. Games, carnival rides and music following parade at 2865 Thornhills Ave. SE. cascadetwp.com.

Through Aug. 28 – Kickin’ It at Calder: Grand Rapids Food Truck Association hosts food trucks every Tues. and Wed. 11 a.m.-1:45 p.m. at Calder Plaza. 300 Monroe Ave. NW. facebook. com/grfoodtrucks.

Through Aug. 29 – Holland Street Performers: Musicians, acrobats, face painters, balloon artists, jugglers, magicians perform along Eighth Street in Holland. 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Thu. Free. downtownholland.com.

Through Sept. 19 – Relax at Rosa: Outdoor lunchbreaks with live bands and food trucks.

Noon-1:30 p.m. every Thu. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. downtowngr.org.

Through Sept. 29 – Fulton Street Artisans Market: Weekly market with local handmade art. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sun. 1145 E. Fulton St. grartmarket.com.

STAGE & FILM JULY 13 #IMOMSOHARD: Comedy duo Jen Smedley and Kristin Hensley perform Mom’s Night Out: Round 2. 7 p.m.

DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $37-$47. devosperformance hall.com.

JULY 13 - ROCKFORD KIDS TRIATHLON: Run, bike and swim;

lengths based on age up to 17. 9 a.m.

Rockford High School, 4100 Kroes St. NE. $20. rocktri.com.

See Sports

Through Oct. 4 – Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park: Grand Rapids Food Truck Association hosts food trucks every Fri. 5-9 p.m. 2001 Monroe Ave. NE. facebook.com/ grfoodtrucks.

July 4 – Ada Parade and Fireworks: Pancake breakfast 7-9:30 a.m. at Fire Station 1, 6990 E. Fulton St. Parade at 10 a.m. along Thornapple River Drive to Headley Street to Bronson Street to River Street. Classic car show 11 a.m.-3

JULY 16 - GAME NIGHT: GR Public Museum hosts an evening of games in conjunction with its “TOYS!” exhibit. grpm.org.

See Special Events

JULY 16 - DIANA ROSS:

July 4 – East Grand Rapids Celebration and Fireworks: Parade starts at noon at the intersection of Sherman and Wealthy streets, heading east on Wealthy Street, to Lakeside Drive ending at Reeds Lake Boulevard. Kids activities, water ski show, music and food throughout the day at John Collins Park, 650 Lakeside Drive SE. Fireworks at dusk over Reeds Lake. eastgr.org.

July 4 – Grand Haven Parade and Fireworks: Parade begins 10:30 a.m. at Ferrysburg City Hall, followed by music, food, games at William Ferry Park, 110 Pine St., Spring Lake.

Fireworks at Waterfront Stadium at dusk. visit grandhaven.com.

July 4 – Grandville Parade and Fireworks: Events include pancake breakfast, parade (11 a.m.), craft show, carnival, food vendors, kids zone, live music, fireworks at dusk. Grandville Middle School, 3535 Wilson Ave. SW. cityof grandville.com.

July 4 – Holland Celebration and Fireworks: Celebration Freedom begins at 4 p.m. with kids games, vendors, martial arts demos and live music at Kollen Park, 240 Kollen Park Drive.

Fireworks begin at 10:25 p.m. holland.org.

July 4 – Kentwood Celebration and Fireworks: Morning events include pancake breakfast

Performs Diamond Diana 75th Birthday: A Year of Celebration tour.

7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. devosperformancehall.com.

See Music

JULY 26-AUG. 4 - “ALL SHOOK UP”: GR Civic Theatre

presents a musical comedy loosely based on Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” and “Midsummer Night’s Dream” with songs by Elvis. grct.org.

See Stage & Film

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 93

out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

(7-9:30 a.m.), 5K run (8:30 a.m.) and parade (9:30 a.m.). Carnival (10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.) and evening celebration (4-10 p.m.) with food trucks, beer tent, live music and fireworks at Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton SE. kentwood. us/july4.

July 4 – Saugatuck Parade, Waterfront Festival and Fireworks: Parade begins at 2 p.m. along Butler street in downtown Saugatuck.

Waterfront Festival with music, food trucks, kids activities, entertainment and celebrity dunk tank from noon-9 p.m. at Coghlin Park, 64 Griffith St. Fireworks at dusk over Lake Kalamazoo. saugatuck.com.

July 4 – White Lake Parade and Fireworks: Parade from Whitehall City Hall to downtown Montague begins 10 a.m. Fireworks at dusk over White Lake. whitelake.org.

July 4-6 – Muskegon Rockstock: Tenth annual music concert with food, vendors and fireworks. Gates open 5 p.m. Heritage Landing, 1050 Seventh St., Muskegon. $10/day, $25/3 days. muskegonrockstock.com.

July 5 – First Friday Gallery Hop: Participating galleries, shops and eateries stay open 6-9 p.m., presented by Avenue for the Arts. South Division Avenue between Fulton and Cherry streets. avenueforthearts.com.

July 5-6 – Lakeshore Art Festival: 300 juried art exhibitors, plus food, street performers and kids activities. Downtown Muskegon. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. lakeshoreartfestival.org.

July 6 – Front Row for the Fireworks: Grand Rapids Public Museum celebration includes scavenger hunt, carousel rides, planetarium shows, organ concerts, cash bar and food, plus a front-row seat for the fireworks. 6:30-10 p.m. 272 Pearl St. NW. $15 adults, $10 members. grpm.org.

July 11, 18, 25 – Maranda’s Park Parties: WOTV4’s Maranda hosts free family parties with activities, games, entertainment, food, prizes. July 11, Kollen Park, Holland. July 18, Carson/Rizor Athletic Field, Battle Creek. July 25, Garfield Park, Grand Rapids. Noon-2 p.m.; free lunch for kids 18 and under starting at 11:30 a.m. wotv4women.com.

July 13, 20 – Great Train Robbery: Coopersville & Marne Railway’s train excursion includes horseback-riding desperados whose antics are stopped by sheriff’s deputies. 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. 311 Danforth St., Coopersville. $21.75 adults, $20.75 seniors, $19.75 kids 2-12. coopersville andmarne.org.

July 11-13 – Lowell Riverwalk Festival: Concerts, parade, arts and crafts, cruise-in, kayak and canoe races, fireworks. 6-9 p.m.

Thu., 5-9 p.m. Fri., 8 a.m.-8:15 p.m. Sat., fireworks 10:15 p.m. Sat. Downtown Lowell and along Riverwalk. riverwalkfestival.org.

July 13, 27 – Veen Observatory Public Viewing Nights: Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association hosts viewing nights for the public.

9:30 p.m.-midnight. Subject to weather; call 897-7065 for updates. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. SE, Lowell. $3 adults, $2 kids 5-17, kids under 5 free. graaa.org.

July 11-13 – Muskegon’s 150th Celebration: Muskegon celebrates its anniversary with threeday concert series; performers include Bret Michaels, Gretchen Wilson, Kansas, Warrant and Freddie Jackson. Begins 4 p.m. Thu. Heritage Landing, 1050 Seventh St., Muskegon. $50/three-day pass. celebrate150.com.

July 11-20 – Ionia Free Fair: Midway, circus, antique village, music concerts, parades, 4-H, monster truck throwdown. Ionia County Fairgrounds, 317 S. Dexter St., Ionia. ioniafree fair.com.

July 11-Aug. 29 – Happenings on Harvey: Themed community nights with shopping, kids activities and food every Thu. 6-8 p.m.

Harvey Street, downtown Hudsonville. Free. hudsonvillechamber.com.

July 12-13 – Show & Shine Car Show & Cruise: Car cruise at 6 p.m. Fri. along Main Street in downtown Zeeland. Car show 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Sat. zeelandfestivals.com.

July 13 – Art on Center: Galleries along Center Street in downtown Douglas feature artist receptions and live music. 6-8 p.m. Free. saugatuck.com/event/art-on-center.

July 6 – Grand Rapids Fireworks: Downtown fireworks at 10:30 p.m. with live music, activities, games, vendors and food beginning at 5 p.m. Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. experiencegr.com.

July 13 – Eastern & Alger PopUp Market: Alger Heights hosts monthly market with local artisans and vintage dealers. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Eastern Ave. and Alger St. SE. facebook.com/eastern algerpopupmarket.

July 6 – Waterfront Invitational Art Fair: Saugatuck Douglas Art Club hosts annual art fair. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Waterfront at Cook Park, corner of Butler and Culver streets, Saugatuck. saugatuckdouglasartclub.org.

July 13 – Gains Summer Festival: Fourth annual event with sports tournaments, city scavenger hunt, live music, expo, battle talks, food, world record attempt for largest water balloon fight. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Calder Plaza, 300 Monroe Ave. NW. bit.ly/GainsSummerFest2019.

July 8-29 – Zeelmania: Weekly street fair 6-8 p.m. every Mon. on Main Street between Elm and Church streets in downtown Zeeland. zee landfestivals.com.

July 9-Aug. 27 – Summer Night Market: Hosted

by Fulton Street Farmers Market every Tue. 5-8 p.m. 1145 E. Fulton St. fultonstreetmarket.org.

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July 13 – Macatawa Water Festival: Free water activities (kayaking, fishing) and educational experiences to highlight restoring and preserving lake and watershed. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Windmill Island Gardens, 1 Lincoln Ave., Holland. out doordiscovery.org/education/communityevents/macatawa-water-festival.

July 16 – Game Night: Grand Rapids Public Museum hosts an evening of games in conjunction with its “TOYS!” exhibit. 6-10 p.m. 272 Pearl St. NW. $15 adults, $10 members. grpm.org.

July 17-20 – Sparta Town & Country Days: Parade, games, food, music, fireworks, pig roast, carnival, 5K run. spartafair.com.

July 18 – Fire/Rescue Pig Out: Fundraiser for Zeeland Fire Rescue Community Education Programs includes BBQ, live music, kids activities. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Lawrence Park, 100 W. Lawrence Ave., Zeeland. ci.zeeland.mi.us.

July 18 – Picnic in the Park: Free family event with hot air balloon walk, live music, food. 4-9 p.m. Wilcox Park, 100 Youell Ave. SE. grandrapids balloonfestival.com July 18-21 – Muskegon Bike Time: Thirteenth annual celebration of motorcycles and bikers with stunt shows, food, music concerts. 4800 S. Harvey St. muskegonbiketime.com.

July 19-21 – Rock the Coast Powerboat Weekend: Begins 2 p.m. Fri. Grand Haven Municipal Marina, 101 N. Harbor Drive. vis itgrandhaven.com/event/rock-coast-power boat-weekend.

July 20-Jan. 2020 – GRCM’s “Amazing Dinosaurs!”: Grand Rapids Children’s Museum opens traveling exhibit with hands-on displays and touchable dinosaur fossils. 11 Sheldon Ave. grcm.org.

July 20 – Daylily Show: One-day flower show featuring many varieties and sizes of daylilies.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Frederik Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. Free with admission. meijergardens.org.

July 20 – Wayland Main Street Celebration: Summer celebration street fair with art market, music, food, dancing, singing and kids activities. Noon-10 p.m. Main Street, Wayland. downtownwayland.com/event/main-streetcelebration.

July 22 – Coopersville Concert/Ice-Cream Social: Community Alley Cats Jazz Band concert and icecream social. 7-8:30 p.m. Veteran’s Park, 254 W. Randall St., Coopersville. coopersville.com.

July 22-27 – Muskegon County Youth Fair: Amusement rides, tractor and pony pulls, 5K run/walk, horse show, Supercross. 6621 Heights Ravenna Road, Fruitport. muskegon fairgrounds.com.

July 22-27 – Ottawa County Fair: Motor sports, rodeo, mobile zoo, midway, kids activities. Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 1286 Ottawa Beach Road, Holland. ottawacountyfair.com.

July 25 – Bowl-a-Rama: Franciscan Life Process Center fundraiser. 5:30-9 p.m.

Northfield Lanes, 2222 Plainfield Ave. NE. lifeprocesscenter.org.

July 25 – Rock, Roar and Pour: John Ball Zoo hosts live music, craft beer and animal encounters. 21+ only. 6-9 p.m. 1300 W. Fulton St. $25. jbzoo.org.

July 25-28 – Byron Days Festival: Annual celebration includes entertainment, rides and inflatables, arts & crafts, 5K run/walk, car show, fireworks. Bicentennial Park, 8085 Byron Center Ave., Byron Center. byrondaysfestival.com.

July 26-27 – Venetian Festival: Family-friendly games, concerts, dinghy poker run, lighted boat parade, fireworks. Begins 5 p.m. Fri. Coghlin Park, 64 Griffith St., Saugatuck. saugatuck venetianfest.org.

July 26-Aug. 4 – Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival: National festival honors the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard with parades, music, carnival, picnic, kids activities, car show/cruise, ship tours and fireworks. coast guardfest.org.

July 27 – Made in MI Pop-Up Marketplace: Downtown Market hosts monthly outdoor market with artisan gifts, local treats and goodies. 9 a.m.4 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. madeinmipopup.com.

July 27 – Village Square Art and Fine Crafts Fair: Arts, crafts and handmade items. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Village Square, corner of Butler and Main streets, Saugatuck. saugatuckdouglasartclub.org.

July 28 – Allegan Antiques Market: Monthly market features 400 exhibitors inside and outside, rain or shine. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive. $4. alleganantiques.com.

July 31 – Hudsonville Community Games: Carnival, petting zoo, school supply giveaway, family services expo, food. 5-8 p.m.

Hudsonville Fairgrounds, 5235 Park Ave. Free. hudsonvillecommunitygames.com.

SPORTS July – Grand Rapids Football Club, Men’s Team: Minor league soccer team is part of National Premier Soccer League. Home games: July 13 vs. Michigan Stars FC at Houseman Field, 901 Fountain St. NE. July 24 vs BIH GR at Grandville High School, 4700 Canal Ave, SW. $10 adults, $5 kids 4-14. grandrapidsfc.com.

July – West Michigan Whitecaps: Professional minor league baseball team is a member of the Midwest League and Class-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. Home games: Through July 1 vs.

Lake County Captains. July 4-5 vs. South Bend Cubs. July 10-12 vs. Quad Cities River Bandits.

July 13-15 vs. Kane County Cougars. July 24-26 vs. Lansing Lugnuts. July 27-29 vs. Great Lakes Loons. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. $9-$17. whitecaps baseball.com.

July 4 – Reeds Lake Trail Blazer: Ninth annual 5K walk/run around Reeds Lake; benefits East Grand Rapids Community Foundation. 8:30 a.m. East Grand Rapids Community Center, 750 Lakeside Drive SE. $30 adults, $15 kids 11-17, $10 kids 10 and younger. reedslaketrail blazer.com.

July 12-13 – Grand Haven Beach Vault: Vault competition. Grand Haven State Park/Beach, 1223 S. Harbor Drive. grandhavenbeachvault.com.

July 13 – Dirty Burg: Switchback Endurance 5K, 10K, 25K and 50K races include the ski hill. 6 a.m. Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Road, Belmont. $20-$80. switchbackendurance. com/dirty-burg-50k.

July 13 – Rockford Kids Triathlon: Run, bike and swim; lengths based on age up to 17. 9 a.m.

Rockford High School, 4100 Kroes St. NE. $20. rocktri.com.

July 13-14 – West Michigan Beach Volleyball: Tournaments for men’s/women’s double (Sat.) and coed (Sun.). Begins 9:30 a.m. Sat., 10 a.m.

Sun. Grand Haven State Park/Beach, 1223 S. Harbor Drive. wmbeachvolleyball.com.

July 14 – Grand Haven Triathlon & Duathlon: Sprint and Olympic distance triathlons and duathlons, plus relays. 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. TriCities Family YMCA, 1 Y Drive, Grand Haven. $75-$180. grandhaventri.com.

July 15 – Golf for Kids’ Sake: D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s 23rd annual fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters. 9:30 a.m. Blythefield Country Club, 5801 Northland Drive. $400. dabsj.org.

July 15 – Mel Trotter Ministries Golf Event: Mel Trotter Ministries’ 23rd annual fundraiser benefits women’s and children’s programs. 8 a.m.

and 2 p.m. Railside Golf Club, 2500 76th St. SW, Byron Center. $250. meltrotter.org/events/golf.

July 18 – Metro Way 5K/10K: Metro Health race includes kids races, benefits community outreach programs. 6:30 p.m.; free kids races at 6 p.m. Metro Health, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming. $25 and up. metrohealth.net/5k.

July 20 – Holland Hundred Bicycle Tour: Macatawa Cycling Club hosts annual scenic ride to benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and other charities. 18-, 36-, 67- and 100-mile routes. 7 a.m. Herman Miller Greenhouse, 10201 Adams St., Holland. $15-$35. holland100.com.

July 20 – Lake Michigan RTS 10K: Road, trail and sand race along Lake Michigan shoreline benefits Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. 8:30 a.m. 4686 66th St., Holland. $45. lakemichiganrts.com.

July 20 – Team Orphans Cookie 5K Run and Walk: Fundraiser for adoption services at local agencies. 8 a.m. Robinette’s Apple Haus, 3142 4 Mile Road NE. $20, $60 family. teamorphans. com/5k.

July 21 – Tri del Sol: Sprint and Olympic distances for triathlon, duathlon, aquabike and relay, plus Super Spring and kids triathlon. 7 a.m. Camp Manitou-Lin, 1095 N. Briggs Road, Middleville. $80-$140. tridelsol.com.

July 22 – Chamber Open Golf Outing: 18-hole golfing event. 9 a.m. shotgun start. Watermark Country Club, 5500 Cascade Road SE. $200. grandrapids.org.

July 27 – Coast Guard Run: Tri-Cities Family YMCA holds 5K and 10K runs, 1-mile family fun run/walk and tot trot. 7:30 a.m. 1 Y Drive, Grand Haven. $7-$35. tcfymca.org.

July 27 – Color Run: 5K race where runners are showered with colored powder; also after party. 9 a.m. Calder Plaza, 300 Monroe Ave. NW. $24.99$49.99. thecolorrun.com/locations/grand-rapids.

July 27 – SpartanNash YMCA 5K: Run/walk and kids fun run. 8:30 a.m. 2445 84th St. SW, Byron Center. $25, $5 kids. runsignup.com/ race/mi/byroncenter/raceforspartanstores.

July 27 – Summer Stroll for Epilepsy: Fundraiser for Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan with music, raffle and pre-race activities. 8:30 a.m. Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. $15-$25. epilepsymichigan.org/stroll.

STAGE & FILM Through July 14 – “In the Heights”: Mason Street Warehouse presents Lin Manuel Continued on page 98

JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 95

out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

1/ The sculpture park at Frederik Meijer Gardens.

Museums & attractions COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST

2/ DOWNTOWN MARKET: The Market Hall is home to more than 20 local vendors selling produce, cheese, wine, coffee, flowers, beverages, clothing, fish, spices, baked goods and ice cream, plus two full-service restaurants and a variety of dining options. Upstairs are greenhouses, a demonstration kitchen for cooking classes and rentable incubator kitchens. Outdoors between May and August, the Made in Michigan Pop-Up Marketplace offers artisan gifts, local treats and Michigan-made goodies. Antiques on Ionia, held in May and September, features vendors with antiques and collectibles. 435 Ionia Ave. SW, 805-5308, downtownmarketgr.com.

3/ TREERUNNER ADVENTURE PARK: The self-guided high-wire forest adventure has more than 70 obstacles with ziplines, Tarzan swings, rope bridges and swinging logs, plus a Junior Park for kids 4-7. 2121 Celebration Drive NE, 2263993, treerunnergrandrapids.com.

2/ Cooking classes at Downtown Market.

Blandford Nature Center: Situated on 143 acres of woods, fields, ponds and streams, Blandford provides programs that connect people to nature and encourage sustainable practices. The grounds include restored heritage buildings, a farm, a Wildlife Education Center and miles of wildlife trails. The new Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center opened in April 2017. The annual Sugarbush Festival in March celebrates all things maple. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 735-6240, blandfordnaturecenter.org.

Calder Plaza/“La Grande Vitesse”: Alexander Calder’s 43-foot-high bright red stabile was designed in 1969 for the downtown site that is the location for various festivals and events throughout the year. 300 Monroe Ave. NW. grandrapidsmi. gov/directory/places/parks/calder-plaza.

Fish Ladder Sculpture: Created by artist Joseph Kinnebrew in 1974, the fish ladder helps fish as they head upriver to spawn and provides viewing platforms for watching the action. The fish are most active in the spring and late summer. West bank of Grand River, 560 Front Ave. NW, south of Sixth Street.

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3/ TreeRunner Adventure Park has ziplines and high-wire obstacles.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum: After extensive renovations in 2016, the 54,000-squarefoot facility sits in a downtown park on the bank of the Grand River. Permanent exhibits highlight President and Mrs. Ford’s lives. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits and special programs. Gerald and Betty Ford’s burial site also is on the grounds. 303 Pearl St. NW, 254-0400, fordlibrarymuseum.gov.

and regional exhibitions, is the first newly built art museum to receive LEED Gold certification. Special lectures and art workshops coincide with temporary exhibits and Drop-In Family Saturdays has special programming for families. GRAM on the Green offers live music in the summer and Sunday Classical Concert Series runs in the fall and winter.

101 Monroe Center NW, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org.

Grand Rapids Art Museum: Since 1911, GRAM has grown to include more than 5,000 works of art. The 125,000-square-foot facility, which hosts national

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: GRCM celebrates childhood and the joy of learning with hands-on permanent and traveling exhibits es-

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DEAN VAN DIS (TOP); GRAND RAPIDS DOWNTOWN MARKET (LEFT); TREERUNNER ADVENTURE PARK (RIGHT)

1/ FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: The 158-acre botanical gardens and sculpture park features a 30-acre sculpture park, an 8-acre Japanese garden, nature trails and boardwalks, plus indoor sculpture galleries and a tropical conservatory.

Children enjoy the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden and Michigan’s Farm Garden. Special exhibits include Butterflies are Blooming (March/April) and Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World. A 1,900-seat outdoor amphitheater hosts national headliner concerts in the summer.

1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijergardens.org.

READY TO MAKE MEMORIES?

pecially for kids 2-10. Activities include Bubbles!, Little GR, Just Fort Fun, Wee Discover and Aunt Daisy’s Farm. 11 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org.

Grand Rapids Public Museum: Permanent exhibits include Streets of Old Grand Rapids; Newcomers: The People of This Place; West Michigan Habitats; Grand Fish, Grand River; and Be Curious. There also is a restored 1928 Spillman carousel, the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium and Mighty Wurlitzer organ concerts. In addition to its extensive permanent collection, the museum hosts national touring exhibits and special events. 272 Pearl St. NW, 929-1700, grpm.org.

Heritage Hill Historic District: The national historic neighborhood includes more than 1,300 houses in 60 architectural styles dating from 1843.

Annual home tours are in May and garden tours are in June. A self-guided walking tour brochure is available on the website. 126 College Ave. SE, 4598950, heritagehillweb.org.

John Ball Zoo: The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals with exhibits that include Tigers of the Realm, Treasure of the Tropics, Living Shores Aquarium and Red’s Hobby Farm (petting zoo). A funicular travels 900 feet up to the Idema Forest Realm with a nature trail, play area and an overlook of the city. In summer, visitors can enjoy a zip line and ropes course, ride camels or feed birds in the budgie aviary. A gift shop has eco-friendly and fair-trade items. 1300 W. Fulton St., 336-4300, jbzoo.org.

Meyer May House: Restored Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house includes original furnishings. The home is open for free guided tours 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Tue. and Thu.; 1-4 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour before close). 450 Madison Ave. SE, 2464821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com.

Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium: Inside Grand Rapids Public Museum, the planetarium offers comfortable auditorium seating for daily shows that rotate throughout the year. The technology uses Digistar projection and surround sound. 272 Pearl St. NW, 929-1700, grpm.org/planetarium.

Rosa Parks Circle/“Ecliptic”: Maya Lin designed “Ecliptic” for this open space in the heart of downtown to embody Grand Rapids’ ties to water. The 13,000-square-foot installation includes an amphitheater for concerts and an ice-skating rink for winter months. Fiber-optic points embedded in the rink represent the constellations of the night sky over Grand Rapids on Jan. 1, 2000. 135 Monroe Center NW.

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

Continued from page 95

Miranda’s musical about a vibrant community.

8 p.m. Tue.-Sat., 7 p.m. July 4, 2 p.m. July 7 and 14. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $38-$54. mason streetwarehouse.org.

Through July 29 – “Truth: The Testimonial of Sojourner Truth”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the story of a woman during the Civil War as she journeys from slave to freed woman to abolitionist, preacher and suffragette. 7:30 p.m. Howard Recital Hall, 221 Columbia Ave., Holland. $30 adults, $27 seniors, $15 kids under 18. hope.edu/hsrt.

Through Aug. 7 – “Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are In a Play’”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents a musical based on the children’s book by Mo Willems about two friends’ adventures. 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $15. hope. edu/hsrt.

Through Aug. 8 – “West Side Story”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the classic love story set in the gang-ridden streets of New York City. 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $35-$40 adults, $28-$32 seniors, $15 kids under 18. hope.edu/hsrt.

July – Dr. Grins Comedy Club: Nationally acclaimed comedians perform Thu.-Sat. July 11-13, Stewart Huff. July 18-20, Drew Lynch. July 25-27, Erin Jackson. 8 p.m. Thu.; 8 and 10:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat. $5-$15. The B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, thebob.com/drgrinscomedy.

July 6-Aug. 9 – “The Old Man and the Old Moon”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the tale of a man who must abandon his duties of lighting the moon to search for his missing wife. 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $35-$40 adults, $28-$32 seniors, $15 kids under 18. hope.edu/hsrt.

July 11-20 – “James and the Giant Peach”: Holland Civic Theatre’s youth production about a young boy’s adventures. 7 p.m. Thu.Fri., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sat. 50 W. Ninth St., Holland. hollandcivictheatre.org.

July 11-27 – “Hands on a Hardbody”: Circle Theatre presents a musical about 10 people trying to win a new truck. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat., 5 p.m. Sun. Aquinas College PAC, 1703 Robinson Road SE. $26-$30. circletheatre.org.

July 12, 26 – Movies in the Park (East Grand Rapids): Free family-friendly movie at dusk.

July 12, “Mary Poppins Returns.” July 26, “Grease.” John Collins Park, 650 Lakeside Drive SE. eastgr.org.

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July 12, 26 – Movies on Monroe: Free outdoor films. July 12, “Matilda” and “Crazy Rich Asians.” July 26, “Hotel Transylvania” and “A Quiet Place.” 7:30 p.m. 555 Monroe Ave. NW. downtowngr.org.

July 12-30 – “Cinderella”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre’s Emerging Artist Initiative for high school students presents a musical version of the classic fairytale. 10:30 a.m., 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $10. hope.edu/hsrt.

July 13 – #IMOMSOHARD: Comedy duo Jen Smedley and Kristin Hensley perform Mom’s Night Out: Round 2. 7 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $37-$47. devos performancehall.com.

July 19-27 – “Stuart Little”: Master Arts Theatre Youth Summer Stock presents the story of a mild-mannered mouse trying to survive in a human world. 7:30 p.m. Thu.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. July 23 and 25. 75 77th St. SW. $7. masterarts.org.

July 19-Aug. 6 – “Shakespeare in Love”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the story of young Will Shakespeare suffering from writer’s block and a young admirer who will stop at nothing to appear in his next play. 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $26-$30 adults, $22-$27 seniors, $15 kids under 18. hope.edu/hsrt.

July 25 – Dude Perfect: Pound it Noggin Tour: Sports entertainment group and YouTube stars. 7 p.m. DeltaPlex, 2500 Turner Ave. NW. $25-$55. premierproductions.com.

July 26-Aug. 3 – “Going Going Gone”: LowellArts Players present a story about four sports journalists in the press box at a major Los Angeles baseball game. 223 W. Main St., Lowell. lowellartsmi.org.

July 26-Aug. 4 – “All Shook Up”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents a musical comedy loosely based on Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” and “Midsummer Night’s Dream” with songs by Elvis. 7:30 p.m. Fri., 2 p.m. Sat. 30 N. Division Ave. $12-$20. grct.org.

July 26-Aug. 10 – “Unnecessary Farce”: Mason Street Warehouse presents a story about an embezzling mayor, his female accountant and two undercover cops. 8 p.m. Tue.-Sat., 7 p.m. Sun. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $38-$54. masonstreetwarehouse.org.

July 27-Aug. 3 – “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s youth production about a young girl’s adventures when she follows a rabbit down his hole.

7:30 p.m. Wed and Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $12-$20. grct.org.

MUSIC Through July 22 – East Grand Rapids Summer Concerts: Free family-friendly music 7 p.m. every Mon. July 8, August. July 15, Chandler Reed & The Sticky Keys. July 22, John Lavengood. John Collins Park, 650 Lakeside Drive SE. eastgr.org.

Through July 25 – Thursdays at the Felt: Free concerts 7 p.m. every Thu. July 11, Brena. July 18, Teddy Petty & the Refugees. July 25, Great Scott! Carriage House Stage, Felt Estate, 6597 138th St., Holland. feltmansion.org.

Through Aug. 8 – Celadon Summer Concert Series: Free family-friendly concerts. July 11, Bucket O’ Maybes. July 18, Sunday Morning Moonshine. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Celadon Outdoor Amphitheater, 2050 Celadon Drive NE. face book.com/celadonconcerts.

Through Aug. 8 – Kentwood Summer Concert Series: Free Thu. night concerts; also food trucks. July 18, Hannah Rose and the GravesTones. July 25, The Crane Wives. 7-8:30 p.m. On the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Road SE. kentwood.us.

Through Aug. 12 – Jazz at Millennium Park Meadows: West Michigan Jazz Society hosts free jazz concerts 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Mon. July 1, Kat Jones and Company. July 8, Starry Night Octet. July 15, Evidence. July 22, Mary Rademacher-Reed. July 29, Gustavo Cortinas.

Grant Pavilion, Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave., Walker. wmichjazz.org.

Through Aug. 13 – Rogue River Blues: Rockford’s Tue. evening concerts showcase jazz, blues and folk. 7-9 p.m. Garden Club Park along Rogue River. Free. rockfordmichamber.com.

Through Aug. 16 – Holland Summer Concerts: Live music 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Fri. Kollen Park, 240 Kollen Park Drive. Free. downtown holland.com.

Through Aug. 18 – Cook Carillon Concert Series: Concerts every Sun. at 8 p.m. July 7, Bernard Winsemius. July 14, Gijsbert Kok. July 21, Tim Sleep. July 28, Laura Ellis. GVSU Allendale Campus. gvsu.edu/music.

Through Aug. 21 – Saugatuck Music in the Park: Free family-friendly music in Saugatuck 7-9 p.m. every Wed. Wicks Park Gazebo, Water Street. saugatuck.com.

Through Aug. 22 – Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts: Free concerts 7 p.m. every Thu. July 4, River City Jazz Ensemble with Rick Reuther. July 11, The Insiders: Tom Petty Tribute Band. July 18, The JetBeats. July 25, Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish. Riverwalk Plaza along Flat River, downtown Lowell. lowellartsmi.org.

Through Aug. 29 – Music at the Point: Spring Lake Heritage Festival hosts free concerts every Thu. 7-8:30 p.m. Mill Point Park, 612 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake. slheritage festival.com.

Through Sept. 18 – Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts: National acts perform in outdoor amphitheater. July 11, Three Dog Night. July 15, Amos Lee. July 18, Andrew Bird. July 21, The Gipsy Kings. July 25, The Mavericks and Los Lobos. July 26, An Evening with Lyle Lovett and his Large Band. July 28, The Temptations and The Righteous Brothers. July 31, Dawes and Margo Price. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. meijergardens.org.

July 2-30 – Soundz of Summer Concert Series: Free concerts 6:30 p.m. every Tue. Lawrence Park, 100 W. Lawrence Ave., Zeeland. ci.zeeland.mi.us.

July 2-Aug. 27 – Tuesday Evening Music Club: Local and regional musicians perform every Tues. at Meijer Gardens outdoor amphitheater.

7 p.m. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. Free with admission. meijergardens.org.

July 3, 17, 31 – Tim Froncek & Friends, Summer Jazz Series: The Block hosts jazz drummer and other musicians for three-concert series.

7:30 p.m. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $10. theblockwestmichigan.org.

July 3-31 – Beckering Family Carillon Concert Series: Concerts every Wed. at noon. July 3, Helen Hofmeister. July 10, Bernard Winsemius.

July 17, Gijsbert Kok. July 24, Tim Sleep. July 31, Alex Johnson. Lacks International Plaza at Richard M. DeVos Center, GVSU Pew Campus, 401 W. Fulton St. gvsu.edu/music.

July 8, 22, 29 – Summer in the Studio: Saugatuck Center for the Arts concerts. July 8, The Hummingbirds. July 22, Claire Wellin.

July 29, Marya Grandy. 8 p.m. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $15. sc4a.org.

July 10, 17 – Music at the Pavilion: GrandvilleJenison Chamber hosts Wed. concerts with food vendors and kids activities. July 10, Don Middlebrook & the Pearl Divers. July 17, Jaded.

6-8 p.m. Wedgewood Park, 3301 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville. bit.ly/MusicPavilion.

July 11 – Walker Standale Summer Concert Series: Free family-friendly entertainment.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Walker Community Park, 700 Cummings Ave. NW. walker.city.

July 11, 18 – Cutlerville Sounds of Summer: Free concerts Thu. at 7 p.m. July 11, The Fast Hands Band. July 18, The Journeymen. Cutler Park, 6701 Cutler Park Drive, Byron Center. facebook.com/soundsofsummercutlerville.

July 11-Aug. 2 – Picnic Pops: Grand Rapids Symphony presents family-friendly concerts with picnics permitted. July 11-12, Classical Fireworks: Salute to America. July 18-19, Classical Mystery Tour: 50 Years of The Beatles’ White Album. July 25-26, Motown: Greatest Hits of Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Four Tops and more. 7:30 p.m. Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Road NE, Belmont. $5-$20. grsymphony.org.

July 11-Aug. 16 – Chamber Music Festival of Saugatuck: Music by area musicians every Thu. and Fri. night. July 11-12, A Mighty Handful.

July 18-19, Jazz Meets Classics. July 25-26, Sister Act. 7:30 p.m. Saugatuck Women’s Club, 303 Butler St. $20 adults, $5 students, $100 season. saugatuckmusic.org.

July 12 – Heart: Rock band performs Love Alive tour; also Sheryl Crow and Lucie Silvas. 7 p.m.

Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $29-$195. vanandelarena.com.

July 13, 20 – Circle Theatre Summer Concert Series: July 13, Run the World: 80 Years of Girl Groups. July 20, 21st Century Broadway: Modern Musicals. 7 p.m. Aquinas College PAC, 1703 Robinson Road SE. $18. circlet heatre.org.

July 16 – Diana Ross: Singer performs Diamond Diana 75th Birthday: A Year of Celebration tour.

7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $67-$147. devosperformancehall.com.

July 17-18 – Well-Strung: Saugatuck Center for the Arts hosts male quartet fusing classical and pop. 8 p.m. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $45. sc4a.org.

July 19 – Beers at the Bridge: Fifth annual free summer concert series. 6-9 p.m. Ada Covered Bridge/Leonard Field, 7490 Thornapple River Drive SE. adamichigan.org.

July 23 – Jeff Lynne’s ELO: Rock band. 8 p.m.

Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $49-$149. vanandelarena.com.

July 23-Aug. 13 – Jenison Music in the Park: Free concerts 6-8 p.m. Tues. July 23, The Bourbon Legends. July 30, Iron Town.

Rosewood Park, 1899 Rosewood St., Jenison. grandjen.com.

July 24 – Concerts in Rogers Park: Free familyfriendly concerts 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wed. July 24, Bari Lee Band. Rogers Park, 152 N. State St., Sparta. spartachamber.com/sparta-park-concerts.

July 25-26 – The Piano Cottage Rocks!: Family-friendly rock-and-roll concert featuring musicians age 8-16. 7:30 p.m. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. thepianocottage.com.

July 26 – “Weird Al” Yankovic: Rock comedy parody artist performs Strings Attached tour. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $89-$250. devosperformancehall.com.

LECTURES & WORKSHOPS July – Downtown Market Cooking Classes: July 13, French Tart Workshop. July 20, Takeand-Bake Alternative Crust Pizza Workshop.

July 26, DIY Thai. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. down townmarketgr.com.

July – FLPC Art Workshops: July 8-14, “Exploring Your Painting Skills in Open Air” 1 (July 8-10) and 2 (July 12-14) by Marc Hanson.

July 17-20, “Watercolor Secrets Revealed” by Tom Lynch. July 18-20, “Adding the You Factor to Painting 2” by Donna Zagotta. July 31-Aug. 3, “Watercolor Workshop” by Helga Flower.

Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. lifeprocesscenter.org.

July – Grand Rapids Public Libraries: Adults: Fly Me to the Moon, GR Reads Photowalk, Amazing UFO Cases, book clubs, computer/ technology instruction. Kids: Make Space for Honeybees, Comic Geek Out, Comedy Magic with Cameron Zvara, ScribbleMonster, Summer Reading Challenge, story times. grpl.org.

July – Kent District Libraries: Adults: Apple Users Group, book sales, book discussions, computer/technology instruction. Kids: Ruff Readers, Touch a Truck, KDL Lab Experience, Pokémon Club, story times. kdl.org.

July – Summer Swing Dancing: 7-9:30 p.m. every Tue. in downtown Grand Rapids. First 30 minutes is instruction. July 2 and 16, Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. July 9, 23 and 30, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. grandrapidsoriginalswingsociety.com.

July 16 – Men’s Summer Retreat: Franciscan Life Process Center hosts one-day retreat for men with presentations, quiet reflection time, Confession, Mass and lunch. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. $60. lifeprocess center.org.

July 26 – Contra Dance: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts instruction and dancing. 7 p.m.

701 Fifth St. NW. $10 adults, $8 members, $5 students and seniors. sites.google.com/site/ grfolkarts.

Through Aug. 1 – Balletmore Summer Dance Season: Diverse class options include ballet, lyrical and pointe technique for all ages of kids to adults and include beginner and seasoned dancers. 4:30-8:30 p.m. Tue. and Thu. 2335 Burton St. SE. $375. balletmore.com.

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

1/ GR Ballet performs at Peter Martin Wege Theatre.

Performance venues COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST

1/ PETER MARTIN WEGE THEATRE: The 300-seat intimate space was built to accommodate performances by Grand Rapids Ballet, whose facility it adjoins, but also is available for other performances and corporate functions.

341 Ellsworth Ave. SW, 454-4771, grballet.com/peter-martin-wege-theatre.

2/ 20 MONROE LIVE: Opened in 2017, the 2,600-seat venue hosts music concerts, comedians, entertainers and special events. The venue has general admission main-floor access with a seated balcony and mezzanine.

11 Ottawa Ave. NW, (844) 678-5483, 20monroelive.com.

3/ FOREST HILLS FINE ARTS CENTER: Owned and operated by Forest Hills Public Schools, the 1,200-seat auditorium is part of a 62,000-squarefoot facility. In addition to hosting concerts, theater performances and lectures, art exhibits are held in the lobby. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8966, fhfineartscenter.com.

The B.O.B.: The Big Old Building houses restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, including 20 Monroe Live, nightclub Eve, H.O.M.E. (House of Music & Entertainment) and Dr. Grins Comedy Club. 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com.

DeltaPlex Arena & Conference Center: This venue hosts concerts, sports, expos and trade shows, plus special events, such as weddings and graduations, in the 20,000-square-foot arena and additional halls/ballroom. 2500 Turner Ave. NW, 364-9000, deltaplex.com.

DeVos Performance Hall: This 2,500-seat auditorium in downtown Grand Rapids hosts concerts and special events and is home to performances by Grand Rapids Symphony, Opera Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids

2/ Concerts at 20 Monroe Live

Ballet and Broadway Grand Rapids.

303 Monroe Ave. NW, 742-6500, devosperformancehall.com.

local, regional and national music concerts and entertainers. 133 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-8232, sectionlive.com.

Dog Story Theater: Black box theater provides a space for all types of entertainment: plays, music concerts, films and Comedy Outlet Mondays. 7 Jefferson Ave. SE, 425-9234, dogstory theater.com.

The Pyramid Scheme: This neighborhood pub and music venue in the downtown Heartside District has a capacity of more than 400 and hosts local and national bands.

68 Commerce Ave. SW, pyramid schemebar.com.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Amphitheater: The outdoor venue accommodates 1,900 in a terraced-lawn setting and hosts local and national concerts during the summer.

1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijergardens.org.

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre: Seating 750 people, the theater hosts nine mainstage productions each season. The building also includes the School of Theatre Arts with 1,600 students annually. 30 N. Division Ave., 222-6650, grct.org.

The Intersection: This nightclub venue with 1,500-person capacity in the downtown Heartside District hosts

Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Arts and Worship: The auditorium seats 1,200 and hosts performances

by Grand Rapids Christian Schools and others in the community. 2300 Plymouth Ave. SE, 574-5600, dcaw.org.

Spectrum Theater: This space hosts performances by GRCC Players, Actors’ Theatre, Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids and Heritage Theatre Group. The auditorium seats up to 255 and the building includes classrooms, rehearsal spaces and a recording studio. 160 Fountain St. NE, 234-3946, grcc.edu/theater/ spectrumtheatercalendar.

St. Cecilia Music Center: Established in 1883, the center hosts national performers in its 630-seat Royce Auditorium. It also presents Acoustic CafĂŠ Folk, Jazz, and Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Series concerts and an annual Great Artist Gala.

The center also is home to Terryberry Gallery. 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 4592224, scmc-online.org.

UICA: Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts includes a state-of-the-art, 200-seat theater used for showing independent movies and documentaries, as well as concerts, performance artists, receptions and gallery talks. 2 W. Fulton St., 454-7000, uica.org.

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Van Andel Arena: The 12,000-capacity arena hosts national musical acts of all genres and sporting events that include Grand Rapids Griffins hockey games, ice skating, wrestling, bull riding and monster truck shows.

130 W. Fulton St., 742-6600, vanandel arena.com.

3/ Local and touring shows perform at the Forest Hills Fine Arts Center.

Van Singel Fine Arts Center: The Byron Center High School facility hosts concerts and touring productions in its nearly 800-seat theater.

8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, vsfac.com.

Wealthy Theatre: Owned and operated by Community Media Center, the main Peter Wege Auditorium seats 400. It also includes a Koning Micro-Cinema space, a community meeting room and Front Studio. 1130 Wealthy St. SE, 459-4788, grcmc. org/theatre.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAMION VAN SLYKE (TOP); 20 MONROE LIVE (LEFT); JOHN BISCHOFF (RIGHT)

Aquinas College Performing Arts Center: Aquinas College, Circle Theatre and Catholic Secondary schools share this 400-seat theater, which sits on a wooded site. 1703 Robinson Road SE, 456-6656, aquinas.edu/theatre.

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All proceeds benefit the programs and outreach of Kent District Library.

out & about SOCIETY / FACES / PLACES

Dr. Herman Sullivan and Kelli Smith

Margaret Idema and Bob Zylstra

Sara Dart and Fatima Bawah

Paige Cornetet champagne skirt girl

Tammy Squire, Diane Griffin, Matt Jones and Cherie Jansen

CAPTURING THE ACTION AROUND TOWN:

snapshots LOCAL BOUTIQUES took to the catwalk April 12 for Runway on the Rapids, an event raising money for multiple sclerosis programs at Mercy Health Hauenstein Neurosciences and hosted by Saint Mary’s Foundation.

The West Michigan Environmental Action Council hosted its annual Blue Tie Ball on April 18 in honor of Earth Day. The gala raises funds for WMEAC’s water education and protection programs.

Circle Theatre held its season kickoff April 19. The Saturday Night Fever-themed fundraiser benefits the theater group’s mission to “enrich, entertain and educate.”

Lizzie Mathias and Rachel Kieras

102 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK AND JOHNNY QUIRIN

Bill Wood, Aaron Ferguson and Daniel Schootenberg

Hilary and Daniel Morrison

Ericka Popovich and Dan Coy

Wanda Yancy and Dionne Holmes

Jess and Dawn Reed

Jordan Carson and Eric Holter

Angela Brown, Monica Schafer, Rachael Rohde, Amy L. Charles and Jennifer Pascua

Marcus Chapman and Kaeleb Gogswell

Leslie Sanford, Nikki Hoort and Jockyn Broyles

Evelyn Plas, Marvin Plas, David VandenBerg and Ellen VandenBerg JULY 2019 / GRMAG.COM 103

after thoughts

Q:a

HANNAH ROSE GRAVES started singing before she spoke her first word. Not a surprise, given that her grandfather played acoustic guitar, harmonica and a kick drum all at the same time, as well as the accordion.

Today, Graves performs regularly around West Michigan with her band, the GravesTones. She also is in an electronic/ pop/R&B group called Alone Together with producer/DJ TyBeat. The pair plans to drop a series of music videos this year along with an EP. This summer, you can catch Graves with her band at several venues, including the Rogue River Blues Series in downtown Rockford, Taste of Grand Rapids Festival, Kentwood Concert Series, Relax at Rosa and the Cowpie Music Festival.

I read that you released “Glitter and Dirt” on March 20, tell me about that song. “Glitter and Dirt” is the summary of my life. I sing about traveling when I was 18, leaving home to find myself and my sound. It is about doubting yourself and rising above the darkness to be the best version of you.

You also did your first ever music video to go along with the song. What prompted you to make a music video?

Who did you work with and what can you share about the video's direction? I am extremely happy with the music video for “Glitter and Dirt.” Tom Gunnels did an incredible job directing, filming and editing. We wanted it to be glamorous and eye-catching, with the lights and projectors but still feel like people are in the room with us.

Which is why we threw a party with our friends in the room dancing.

In this current market, videos are the best form of promotion.

What are your favorite Grand Rapids venues to perform at and what do you like about these venues? Frederik Meijer Gardens and Amphitheater, Founders, SpeakEZ Lounge, Tip Top Deluxe, Pyramid Scheme. They are all intimate venues. Music lovers attend. They treat my band and I like kings and queens. They help cultivate this wonderful music community.

104 GRMAG.COM \ JULY 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Hannah Rose Graves embraces musical background.

GO HIGH Cozy SPEED Up and OR SLOWLY SAVOR When you’re in a pre y great place, the pace is what you make it.

It’s where you can pour out your energy, or sit back for a second pour. And where every speed---or lack thereof--- is another reminder you’re in a pre y great place.

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