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Contents MAY 2018 / VOL. 55 / NO. 05
FEATURES 30 / For the love of volunteering Countless people throughout West Michigan find unique ways to use their talents, time and energy for the greater good. BY JULIE BONNER WILLIAMS
34 / Quality of life The impact of the Medical Mile extends across (and beyond) Grand Rapids. BY MYRNA ANDERSON
4 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
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contents MAY 2018 / VOL. 55 / NO. 05
departments BACK & FORTH 8 / From the Editor, contributors and letters
66 / Pints of interest: Founders goes for gold 70 / Cocktail hour: Homemade orgeat
10 / Social media, GRMag.com sneak peaks, previews and more LIFE & STYLE 12 / Noteworthy items Heritage Hill, Mother’s Day pampering and food trucks. 14 / Reading room: “The Lake Michigan Mermaid: A Tale in Poems”
58
“I let my heart loose. That set the foundation for everything that I am doing later in life.” — Mary Hunter
CAUSE & EFFECT 72 / Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis OUT & ABOUT 84 / May highlights 85 / Calendar
18
86 / Comedy & nightclub venue listings and highlights
18 / Cone Appétit’s treats for a cause
92 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights
20 / GR’s Top 5 sporting goods stores
94 / Snap shots
22 / Health & wellness: Effective communication ART & DESIGN 24 / Art gallery profile: “Culture, Commerce and Criticism” at Hope College
84
24
72
96 / After thoughts: Nancy Oliver
26 / Art gallery listings and highlights 28 / Art talk: Abraham Lincoln at State Street Park FOOD & DRINK 50 / Dining review: Butcher’s Union 52 / Restaurant listings for West Michigan 58 / Chef profile: Executive chef Mary Hunter at Cork Wine & Grille and Vintage Prime & Seafood 6 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
28
ON THE COVER: At age 19, Tara VanWagoner discovered her passion for fighting human trafficking. Now, Cone Appétit provides a portion from each sale of its homemade ice cream to aid the effort. See page 18 to read more.
Photography by Johnny Quirin
Tom, Heart Patient John, Heart Patient
You can’t beat 2,600. Spectrum Health performed over 2,600 procedures correcting heart rhythm disorders last year. Their experience won us over. At Spectrum Health, our dedicated heart team is the largest and most experienced in the region. It means unmatched expertise and knowledge for any heart-related condition, whether you need surgery or not. Doctors corrected Tom’s heart’s atrial fibrillation with ablation. And when his twin brother John experienced the same symptoms, he got a second opinion and the same treatment from the local heart team at Spectrum Health.
For a second opinion call 855.7 MY HEART spectrumhealth.org/heart © Spectrum Health
back & forth CONNECT WITH US
Healthy ‘markers’ for GR a source of pride
M
Van Andel Institute
MANY, MANY NEW and renovated buildings have energized and elevated GR in the past two decades, but one would be hard pressed to suggest any of them better express the essence of the city more than the Van Andel Institute. The desire to build a research institute, most specifically in the fight against cancer and Parkinson’s, certainly was unexpected in 1996 when plans were first announced. The philanthropy that poured forth became the city’s source of pride, and the domino effect in the creation of new medical institutions is unprecedented in Michigan. The VAI connects health care systems, colleges and universities to other research centers throughout Grand Rapids and West Michigan, and was a catalyst for the Michigan Research Corridor. GR Magazine contributing writer Myrna Anderson tells this story, not from the perspective of health care and research leaders, but by the stories of patients and students who indeed provide the mile “markers” of benefit to the physical health of this community.
The newest addition to the medical research and well-being taking place in Grand Rapids is the Michigan State University Research Center, which opened in the fall of 2017. MSU College of Human Medicine Dean Norman Beauchamp said, “If health care is to serve all peoples, we need to train physicians that represent all those who seek care. Increasing the number of physicians who come from diverse backgrounds … is an imperative.” Another “symbol” of a healthy community: this is the month the food trucks roll in full formation and farmers markets display the harvests from local fields of colorful, fresh foods and flowers. Plus, Beer City, USA, isn’t long from tapping those summer ales. This month also marks the first games of the season for Grand Rapids Football Club … the women’s team. The opening game for the team, under the United Women’s Soccer League, is May 5. The men’s team, playing minor league soccer as part of the National Premier Soccer League, plays its first home game May 4. Carole Valade Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine
This month we asked some of our contributors, “If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?”
Myrna Anderson,
Johnny Quirin,
Joseph A. Becherer,
WRITER
PHOTOGRAPHER
WRITER
“QUALITY OF LIFE,” PAGE 34
“GIVING BACK,” PAGE 30
“A VISUAL LEGACY TO AMERICAN LEADERSHIP,” PAGE 28
“It would have to be Peru. Many years ago, I read a Nancy Drew book (set) around Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines in Peru. I’ve wanted to see those places ever since.”
“I love traveling and have traveled so many places around the world and country. So, it’s hard to narrow it down to just one place, (but) Spain is probably my most favorite country to go to.”
8 GRAND RAPIDS \ MAY 2018
“Early summer is for Italy and for looking forward. Late summer is for sitting under the scraggly tree in our backyard and looking back.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Q&A:
Are comfort and saving money mutually exclusive? Absolutely not. Our tips, rebates and the DTE Insight App make it easy to stay comfortable and keep within budget. And homeowners can save up to $200 a year on heating and cooling costs by sealing air leaks and adding insulation. So get comfortable — with saving.
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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 … Lakeshore Guide The Lake Michigan shoreline offers an abundance of destinations, activities and other hot-spots you won’t want to miss.
Fowling Warehouse brings a unique sport to Grand Rapids. Visit grmag.com
On the radio
Let your senses and cares float away at Phlot Spa. Visit grmag.com
Which downtown Grand Rapids tradition are you most looking forward to this year? our social media followers respond:
7% Fifth Third River Bank Run
Find out where to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in GR.
6% Other
13% Pulaski Days
36% ArtPrize
At grmag.com
Opera GR celebrates its 50th anniversary this month.
38% Festival of the Arts
NEXT MONTH’S QUESTION:
When you hit the Michigan roads in summer in search of fun, which direction do you head?
We want to hear from you There are tons of ways to reach us. By mail: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, 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 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (BOTTOM, FAR LEFT AND FAR RIGHT); COURTESY FOWLING WAREHOUSE (TOP CENTER); CHARLSIE DEWEY (LOWER CENTER)
WHATEVER OUTDOOR ACTIVITY you’re into, Grand Rapids has a sporting goods store to suit your needs. Check out the list on page 20 and visit grmag.com for a list of our favorite area sport shops.
Join Managing Editor Sarah Tincher 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.
TM
Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com
info@grmag.com
PUBLISHER: John H. Zwarensteyn
EDITORIAL EDITOR: Carole Valade MANAGING EDITOR: Sarah Tincher COPY EDITOR: Tom Mitsos CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Myrna Anderson,
Joseph A. Becherer, Jaye Beeler, Ann Byle, Ira Craaven, Pat Evans, Elissa Hillary, Kara McNabb, Mark F. Miller, Marla R. Miller, Torrence R. O’Haire, Amy Ruis, Pasha Shipp, Julie Bonner Williams, Tricia van Zelst DESIGN PANEL: Joseph A. Becherer, John Berry,
Kevin Budelmann, Jim Caughman, Timothy Chester, Sam Cummings, Ray Kennedy, Henry Matthews, Wayne Norlin, Wayne Visbeen DESIGN & PRODUCTION NEW MEDIA, DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER:
Scott Sommerfeld ART COORDINATOR: Kelly J. Nugent DESIGNERS/PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS:
Melissa Brooks, Kristen Van Oostenbrugge, Robin Vargo CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Adam Bird, Michael Buck, Jim Gebben, Rex Larsen, Johnny Quirin
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(616) 459-4545 Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Publications, a division of Gemini Corporation. Publishing offices: 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 4594545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag. com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com. Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright © 2018 by Gemini Publications. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444.
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life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
noteworthy INTERESTING TIDBITS WE THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Follow that truck! The moment many local foodies have been waiting for has finally arrived — once again, it’s food truck season in Grand Rapids! Relax at Rosa will return to Rosa Parks Circle on May 3, featuring outdoor lunch breaks with live bands and food trucks from noon1:30 p.m. every Thursday through mid-September. Beginning May 11, Food Truck Fridays will be held at Riverside Park from 5-9 p.m. every Friday through the end of August. The Grand Rapids Food Truck Association will host its annual Roll’n Out Food Truck Fest from noon-8 p.m. May 20 at Heartside Park. Visit fb.com/grlovesfoodtrucks and fb.com/grfoodtrucks throughout the summer for updates and additional events.
THE STUNNING, HISTORIC homes lining the streets of Grand Rapids’ Heritage Hill neighborhood routinely draw the gaze of passersby. This month, the Heritage Hill Association will host its annual Heritage Hill Weekend Tour of Homes, featuring a “rare glimpse” inside a handful of these restored 19th- and early-20th-century homes and buildings — “an elegant Greek Revival, amazingly modern Queen Anne, a chateau mansion, a Craftsman beauty, a creatively converted 1900 carriage house” and more. The Heritage Hill Association formed in 1968 to protect Heritage Hill homes from a variety of urban renewal projects, which the association said would have demolished 75 percent of the neighborhood. Now celebrating its 50th anniversary, the association continues to preserve the historical community and foster a healthy, stable environment for all to enjoy. Tours will be held from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. May 19, and noon-6 p.m. May 20. Tickets cost $18 in advance or $25 the weekend of the tour; proceeds benefit the Heritage Hill Association, which supports historic preservation of the neighborhood. Free shuttle bus transportation for the tour will be provided between the featured properties. For more information, visit heritagehillweb.org.
Left and above: Karen and Scott Coy’s Heritage Hill home is included in the 2018 Weekend Tour of Homes. 12 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (TOP AND BOTTOM CENTER); COURTESY DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS INC. (BOTTOM LEFT)
An inside look at Heritage Hill
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (BOTTOM LEFT); COURTESY TREETOP ADVENTURE PARK (TOP RIGHT); BOULDER RIDGE WILD ANIMAL PARK (CENTER RIGHT); THINKSTOCK (TOP LEFT)
E
Celebrate mom — the right way!
very mom deserves to feel special every day, and that’s especially true on Mother’s Day (which is May 13 this year — don’t forget!). To find the best way to show the mom, or moms, in your life the love and appreciation they deserve, it’s important to remember the day is truly about catering specifically to her. If she wants the more “traditional” Mother’s Day experience — whether that means waking up to a beautiful bouquet of flowers, Sunday brunch with the family or a relaxing day at the spa — Grand Rapids plays host to countless options to do exactly that. But, for those whose moms might prefer a less traditional approach, have no fear: there’s something out there to suit every GR mom. Showtime: Has she been dying to see her favorite band, or does she just love the thrill of live theater? Take her to a concert, play, comedy show, film festival or another
Above: Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park Right: Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park Left: Brunch at Vander Mill
performance at any of GR’s great venues (even if it’s a little early or belated, it’s the thought that will really matter). Take a sip: Of course, breweries are abundant for beer-lovers to enjoy. But, if she would rather sip on some refreshing cider, May 13 also marks the start of Cider Week GR — the perfect excuse to take her to some of her favorite cideries (or even some new ones) for a taste (or two). Fresh air: For the outdoorsy types, try a day of ziplining at Treetop Adventure Park, rent kayaks for a lovely afternoon on a nearby lake or river, or plan a family bicycle ride through West Michigan’s many nature trails — complete with a picnic in the park. Lions and tigers and bears (oh, my!): Animal lovers might enjoy an afternoon at John Ball Zoo, Blandford Nature Center or Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park. “Take me out to the ballgame”: If sports are more her speed, the West Michigan Whitecaps and Grand Rapids Football Club are back in full swing. Plan a gameday trip with the family!
Plus, West Michigan’s countless art galleries, museums, observatories, historic sites and other organizations offer seemingly endless options for mom — from festivals to art exhibitions, 5Ks to cooking classes, and so much more. Be sure to visit our full calendar section, as well as grmag.com, for more Mother’s Day inspiration. — SARAH TINCHER
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 13
life & style PEOPLE / TRENDS / BOOKS / FASHION / FITNESS
READING ROOM
Hear from the authors Linda Nemec Foster and AnneMarie Oomen will be discussing “The Lake Michigan Mermaid” at numerous upcoming events and locations in West Michigan:
> April 24 - 7 p.m., Aquinas College, Grand Rapids (with reading, visual presentation and signing) > April 25 - 5:30 p.m., LaFontsee Galleries, Grand Rapids (with Meridith Ridl) > April 26 - 6:30 p.m., East Grand Rapids Library, East Grand Rapids > June 3 - 2 p.m., Bookbug, Kalamazoo > June 13 - 10:30 a.m., Interlochen Writers Retreat (registration required) > June 15 - 6:30 p.m., Glen Arbor Arts Center, Glen Arbor Visit lindanemecfoster.com or anne-marieoomen.com for more information. 14 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Long have there been stories of mermaids in the oceans and water people who live in the Great Lakes. But are the watery folks merely the stuff of legend or just a little bit real? For Michigan poets Linda Nemec Foster and Anne-Marie Oomen, a mermaid in Lake Michigan is decidedly real. Together, the pair created “The Lake Michigan Mermaid: A Tale in Poems,” released in March by Wayne State University Press. The story of three generations of women who live along Lake Michigan’s shore and one wild freshwater mermaid — each alone in her own way — dips readers into wild waters and fraught family dynamics through the rhythm of words and seasons and waves. Foster, author of nine collections of poetry and Grand Rapids’ first poet laureate, became the mermaid’s voice; Oomen, author of memoir, essays and poetry, wrote in the voice of the young girl, Lyk. The 27 poems move between the girl and the mermaid to reveal how each searches for a voice and to be heard. “My poetry tends to be gritty, so writing in the girl’s voice was a natural fit,” said Oomen, who lives in Empire. “Linda has a very elevated style and great use of language, so the mermaid was perfect for her.” Foster and Oomen have been on a decadelong journey with “The Lake Michigan Mermaid.” They met in Saugatuck in 2007 at a reading for “Fresh Water: Women Writing on the Great Lakes,” to which both contributed. When an audience member asked if there were stories about Great Lakes mermaids, the pair, sitting next to one another, looked at each other with raised eyebrows. “Anne-Marie called me that night on her way home and said, ‘I
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY MERIDITH RIDL (TOP); WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY PRESS (RIGHT)
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“My poetry tends to be gritty, so writing in the girl’s voice was a natural fit. Linda has a very elevated style and great use of language, so the mermaid was perfect for her.” — Anne-Marie Oomen have an idea for a project.’ She suggested a story told in poems with two voices,” said Foster, who lives in Grand Rapids. “She imagined a lonely young girl who wants a friend, who Anne-Marie thought would be a mermaid. I knew right then I wanted to be the mermaid’s voice.” The pair worked off and on for years, sending poems and ideas back and forth. When Wayne State University Press agreed in 2015 to publish the book, they narrowed the list to 27 poems, 13 in the girl’s voice, 13 in the mermaid’s voice and one poem in which they speak together. “I’ve always wished for a way to use Lake Michigan as a character in my writing. Part of my attraction to this story is that we get to talk about this girl who stares at the water, who wants to understand it,” Oomen said. “I want readers to invest in this story of how a girl comes into hard-won maturity, which is given to her by the spirit of the lake in the form of the mermaid. The story carries the reader to a consciousness of the power of the lake. “After the first couple of pages,” she added, “it won’t feel like poetry but a beautiful story, especially because of the illustrations.” “The Lake Michigan Mermaid” is illustrator Meridith Ridl’s first book project. She agreed to work on the book after reading the poems and meeting Foster and Oomen. “It was fascinating to talk with them about the tone, feel, colors. We thought about wateriness, the earthiness of the poems,” said Ridl, who lives in Saugatuck. “We wanted some ambiguity to leave it open to readers’ interpretation and wanted a combination of representations and the rhythms of the poems and the water.” “The Lake Michigan Mermaid” is available at Schuler Books, through Wayne State University Press (wsupress.wayne.edu) and online retailers. 16 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
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Treats for a
cause
Tara VanWagoner
18 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
A
lmond ’Bout That Bass, Join the Movemint, Tara-Misu — these are just a few of the colorful names Tara VanWagoner gives to her homemade ice cream flavors. But the dairy treats VanWagoner makes at Cone Appétit are so much more than sweet and creamy desserts; before she decided to dive into the ice cream business, she already had another mission in mind. “About three years ago, I had this vision of having an ice cream shop where there were families gathered and kids running around,” said VanWagoner, who lives in Grand Rapids. “But around that same time, I was still trying to figure out how I wanted to work with someone to end human trafficking and support that cause.” At age 19, VanWagoner discovered her passion for serving people enmeshed in the human trafficking trade during a mission trip to Paris, where in addition to helping local public schools, her team supported women in
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THINKSTOCK
“There’s a lot of passion in it and love, and I know it’s kind of a cliché thing to say that something’s ‘made with love,’ but there is a different kind of love, I guess, that’s going into it ...” — Tara VanWagoner the city’s red-light district. “We would often take them little goodie bags of supplies for hygiene, like shampoo and deodorant, lotion,” she said. “It was such an awesome experience but, at the same time, just really hard to walk away from them feeling like I wish I could do more. They’re still not free.” When VanWagoner decided she would partner with an organization, Exodus Cry immediately came to mind. The nonprofit, based just outside of Kansas City, Missouri, fights sexual exploitation and works to heal those who have been impacted. VanWagoner’s experience with Exodus Cry began when she saw “Nefarious: Merchant of Souls,” a documentary the organization produced about sex slavery. “I reached out to them and just felt a connection with them,” VanWagoner said. “We just have this connection and this passion that we share and have different ways that we’re going about it, but we’re still a part of the same team and trying to end modern-day slavery.” The mouth-watering flavors of Cone Appétit can be found at Martha’s Vineyard, Le Bon Macaron and Grand Central Market, and 10 percent of each purchase is donated to Exodus Cry. “There’s a lot of passion in it and love, and I know it’s kind of a cliché thing to say that something’s ‘made with love,’” she said, “but there is a different kind of love, I guess, that’s going into it with the passion for the cause and the love for the people that it’s — PASHA SHIPP helping.”
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hether it’s biking the trails, taking on a 5K, kayaking the Rogue, fishing on the Grand, playing catch in the backyard or picking up a team sport, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the beautiful, sunny spring and summer days in West Michigan. To help you get started, we pulled together a few of our favorite places to get the gear you need to get moving.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP); COURTESY THINKSTOCK (BOTTOM)
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
health & wellness BY KARA MCNABB
Effective communication is key
22 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
acknowledgment of the invitation and person: “I’m interested in you.” Verbalizing importance in accompaniment of a decline is validating, especially if declines are common. However, if this meeting is not important for you, it’s essential to communicate this truthfully, as well: “I appreciate your interest in meeting with me, however, adding something new doesn’t work for me at this time.” I love teaching advocacy/inquiry using the jo, an Aikido practice that allows for bodybased learning. (Look for more on the jo in next month’s issue.) When we learn to communicate from a place of security, we are able to step into any situation with less fear and more ease. — Kara McNabb is a naturopathic practitioner at Continuum Healing and a member of the Wellness Collective.
When you can identify the source of fear in communication, you know where the work begins.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THINKSTOCK
COMMUNICATION OFTEN IS a root of stress. Whether it’s feeling underpowered by an overpowering personality, feeling unable to speak your mind or having the same argument over and over, these are highly stressful situations. Often, these patterns are a result of fear: fear of being a burden, fear of what others might think, fear of being unable to express oneself clearly, fear of losing control, fear of being in control. When you can identify the source of fear in communication, you know where the work begins. One client discovered that expressing what made her unhappy and what she needed felt unsafe. Points of communication — like requesting a raise or asking a spouse to communicate a change in plans — were classified as “confrontation.” We discovered this connected to a childhood pattern of living with an alcoholic parent, where asking for what she needed might be met with explosive rage. She learned that staying quiet kept her safer. As a 40-some-year-old woman, she no longer needs to hold on to this survival pattern. This realization gave her freedom to shift her mindset around communication, and she needed new tools to work in this new mindset. One tool that was helpful for her to communicate in power with, rather than power over or power under, is called advocacy and inquiry. Through a series of negotiations, the goal is to find something that works for both people. In this negotiation, both people have a voice and are heard. It’s as simple as, “I propose …” and, “How does that sound?” Yet, it requires practice. For example, “I propose we meet for dinner next Thursday at 6 p.m. How does that sound?” The other can accept, decline and/or negotiate with such responses as, “This Thursday doesn’t work. Next Thursday at 6 p.m. works for me. How does that sound to you?” or, “Right now my schedule is full, but I’m interested in getting together. Can we reconnect next month?” In this second response, notice the
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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
Connecting the cultural dots Hope College exhibit highlights pieces of its ever-growing print collection, aims to capture history and widespread influence of printmaking.
S
Left: “Summer” by James Tissot (1878) Above: “Salute: On a Tar Roof” by Grace Hartigan (1961) 24 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
IMAGES COURTESY KRUIZENGA ART MUSEUM/HOPE COLLEGE
tories of culture, religion and social criticism unfold through the images in Kruizenga Art Museum’s growing print collection, including recent acquisitions by famous artists that span 500 years. The museum’s latest exhibit, “Culture, Commerce and Criticism,” offers a snippet of the larger collection and highlights 50 prints from the early 1500s to the early 2000s that explore the various ways prints have shaped Western culture. Printmaking has served a variety of purposes since emerging as a major art form in the 15th century by offering commentary on current events, helping artists make a living, and disseminating knowledge through early books and Bibles. The exhibition includes such notable names as Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt van Rijn, James McNeill Whistler, Salvador Dali, William Hogarth and Francisco Goya,
“Mosaic” gemstone necklaces by Scott Carey
IMAGES COURTESY KRUIZENGA ART MUSEUM/HOPE COLLEGE
“Over time, the issues have changed, but going back at least to the 18th century, artists have been using prints as a platform for making social commentary.” — Charles Mason
and gives space to female artists, including Kathe Kollwitz, Helen Frankenthaler, Barbara Kruger and Kara Walker. Some of the prints were donated to the college over the past 50 years, but the majority of the prints were purchased strategically in the last few years to create a coherent body of work, according to Charles Mason, director and Margaret Feldmann Kruizenga curator of the museum. “This is an opportunity to show the Hope College community and other West Michigan communities what we have in the way of European and American prints,” Mason said. The collection’s goal is to connect the prints to art making and history but also to demonstrate how they relate to a variety of academic disciplines, such as anthropology, communication, religion and political science. Mason wanted the exhibition to tell a story, one that captures the cultural, commercial and critical aspects of the art form, which emerged along with papermaking, book printing and metal engraving. The works, arranged chronologically, include examples of the three main printing techniques: relief, such as woodcuts; intaglio engravings and etchings; and planographic styles, such as lithography and screen printing. Prints are easy to duplicate and dis-
Left: “Confederate Rose with Androgeus Swallowtail Butterfly” by Maria Sybilia Merian (1719) Above: “Sun Raid” by Ester Hernandez (2008)
seminate, making them easier and cheaper for artists to transport and sell and buyers to afford. It’s always been a very democratic art form that reached society’s middle class, and the exhibit expresses some of those interests over the centuries, Mason said. “They became a way to comment on issues of war or class inequalities and gender issues,” he said. “Over time, the issues have changed, but going back at least to the 18th century, artists have been using prints as a platform for making social commentary.” Hope College professor Anne Heath, along with the students in her Art 361 seminar, collaborated and helped develop the content and presentation of the exhibit. They held class in the museum last fall, and the first-time collaboration gave students the opportunity to do background research and write the labels and information panels. “You get these different perspectives and opinions about the artwork,” Mason said. “I think it was pretty successful, too, and the students did a great job. Their labels are really interesting to read.” “Culture, Commerce and Criticism” will be on display through May 19 at Hope College’s Kruizenga Art Museum, located at 271 Columbia Ave. in Holland. — MARLA R. MILLER
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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES
Local art galleries
1/ Flat River Gallery features artist Gerri Treves in “One Step Closer.”
COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
1/ FLAT RIVER GALLERY & FRAMING: Colorful and exaggerated subjects fill the paintings by Gerri Treves in her “One Step Closer” exhibit. The exhibit will be on display thru May 31. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 987-6737, flatrivergalleryandframing.com. 2/ TERRYBERRY GALLERY: Local and international art. On display May 2-30, “Landscapes and Departures” by Lee Ann Frame and Dennis O’Mara includes Frame’s “Sweetly She Sings.” Artists’ reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. May 4. Lower level, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmc-online.org/visit-terryberry-gallery. 3/ LOWELLARTS: Changing exhibitions of works by Michigan artists. Thru May 26, “Mayfield and Mosaics” combines two exhibitions by two art groups: The Mayfield Fiber Arts Group and the Mosaic Artists of Michigan. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues.-Fri. and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 223 W. Main St., Lowell, 897-8545, lowellartsmi.org.
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. Thru May 11, FHPS Student Exhibit. May 25-June 22, “Beneath My Skin” by Jillian Dickson. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhfineartscen ter.com.
Aquinas College Gallery: Work by students, faculty and visiting artists. Thru May 5, B.F.A. Exhibit. Art & Music building, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 632-8900, aquinas. edu/art/gallery. Calvin College Center Art Gallery: Student, faculty and alumni work, plus exhibits by visiting artists. May 4-19, Bachelor of Arts Senior Exhibition; reception 5-9 p.m. May 19. Calvin College Covenant Fine Arts Center, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE, 526-6271, calvin.edu/centerartgallery. Cascade Art Gallery: Work by regional, national and international artists, plus multimedia art, print collection, jewelry, custom framing and gifts. 2840 Thornapple River Drive SE, 949-4056, cascadegallerygr.com. Design Quest Gallery: Furniture store exhibits art in a gallery setting. 4181 28th St. SE, 940-9911, design quest.biz.
2/ “Sweetly She Sings” by Lee Ann Frame at Terryberry Gallery. Fed Galleries @ Kendall College of Art and Design: May 1-16, Masters Thesis Exhibition and Excellence Awards Exhibition; reception 4-7 p.m. May 1. May 31-June 23, Festival of the Arts Regional Exhibition; reception 5-8 p.m. May 30. May 31-June 23, “Ignite.” Also, May 18, Wege Prize final presentation and awards. 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.
Franciscan Life Process Center: Changing exhibits by local artists. Downtown GR campus: Thru June 30, featured artist William Alexander. 654 Davis St. NW. Lowell campus: Thru June 30, “Acrylics and Abstracts” by Kathleen Mooney. 11650 Downes St. lifeprocesscenter.org. Gallery 154: Eastown gallery shows local and national multimedia art, gifts and jewelry. 1456 Lake Drive SE, 454-2154, gallery154.com. GRCC Collins Art Gallery: Exhibits by visiting artists, faculty and students. 143 Bostwick Ave. NE, 2343544, grcc.edu/artgallery. GVSU Art Gallery: Student artwork and exhibits by renowned artists. 1121 Performing Arts Center, North Campus Drive, Allendale, 3312563, gvsu.edu/artgallery. Heartside Gallery: Folk, outsider and intuitive art by self-taught Heartside residents. 48 S. Division Ave., 235-7211 ext. 103, heartside.org. ICCF: Inner City Christian Federation headquarters displays art in various media. 920 Cherry St. SE, 3369333, iccf.org.
3/ Fiber art by Karen Hoekstra at LowellArts’ “Mayfield and Mosaics” exhibit. 26 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University: Work by students in graduate-level programs and special community projects. May 1-5, Annual Student Exhibition; reception 4-7 p.m. May 1. 17 Fountain St. NW, 451-2787, kcad.edu/galleries.
Kruizenga Art Museum: Art from Hope College’s permanent collection and visiting exhibitions. Thru May 19, “Culture, Commerce & Criticism.” 271 Columbia Ave., Holland, 395-6400, hope.edu/kam. LaFontsee Galleries: 2-D and 3-D works by gallery artists, plus framing and restoration services. Grand Rapids location (includes Urban Craft Boutique with gifts, accessories and home décor): Thru May 25, “Slightly Obssessive.” 833 Lake Drive SE, 4519820. Douglas location: May 26-July 8, “Let’s Jump In;” reception 5-8 p.m. May 26. 410 W. Center St., 451-3850. lafontsee.us. Leep Art Gallery: Work by a variety of visiting artists. Thru June 29, “A View of My Artistic Journey From the Past to the Present” by Larry Blovits. Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St. SE, pinerest.org. 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. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts: Innovative contemporary exhibits and installations. Thru May 6, CAMPUS: 2018 Annual Faculty and Staff Exhibition. Thru May 13, “Look Behind Design.” Thru May 18, “Fresh Pick: Bohan Li.” Thru July 29, “Color of the Year: Pantone 18-3838 Ultra Violet.” 2 W. Fulton St., 454-7000, uica. org. Van Singel Fine Arts Center: Changing exhibits by local artists. May 2-June 10, “On the Edge” by Southwest Michigan Printmakers; reception 2-3:30 p.m. June 10. 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, vsf ac.com/programming/art-gallery. Check websites for hours of operation.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GERRI TREVES (TOP); LEE ANN FRAME (CENTER); KAREN HOEKSTRA (BOTTOM)
The Artist’s Gallery: Studio and gallery with work by Jim Starkey and Rose Ellis; also custom framing. 40 Monroe Center NW, 454-6650, facebook.com/theartists studio1.
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 27
art talk BY JOSEPH A. BECHERER
A visual legacy of American leadership
28 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
of the National Sculpture Society. In addition to his free-standing work, Weinman also created the images for several coins, including the famed Walking Liberty half dollar and the Mercury dime. Of all the American presidents, the likeness of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln are most commonly encountered. Although plaster masks made from the actual face of Washington and Lincoln provided a resource to generations of artists, Lincoln’s visual legacy also benefitted from major inventions of the 19th century. Photography was in its youth during Lincoln’s presidency, however, there are several celebrated images of the widely beloved president in existence, which have served as critical resources leading into new works of art. Specific to sculpture, especially bronze, the production of portraits was greatly enhanced as technology advanced in the later 1800s. While Weinman’s bronze was one of only a handful of public sculptures that existed in Grand Rapids prior to World War I, today, thanks to the efforts of many, the city enjoys an international reputation for such works. Weinman’s Lincoln was one of several major public projects made possible through the efforts of community leader and cultural patron Lorraine Pratt Immen (1840-1927). — Joseph A. Becherer is curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and a professor at Aquinas College.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Prior to the arrival of several portrait likenesses of Gerald Ford beginning in the late 20th century, (Adolph) Weinman’s Abraham Lincoln was the most celebrated presidential portrait in Grand Rapids.
IN THE HISTORY OF American art, there are more images representing our presidents than any other subject. This is exceedingly clear when looking specifically at sculpture, which has been a popular form of honoring and capturing the likeness of leadership across the globe for centuries. Among Grand Rapids’ earliest public sculptures is a large bust of Abraham Lincoln by Adolph A. Weinman (1870-1952). Dating to 1913, the bronze stands on an elevated base at the convergence of State and Washington streets in an intimate green space along the eastern edge of downtown Grand Rapids historically recognized as State Street Park. Prior to the arrival of several portrait likenesses of Gerald Ford beginning in the late 20th century, Weinman’s Lincoln was the most celebrated presidential portrait in Grand Rapids. He is known to have created at least two other images of Lincoln, whose likeness was a popular theme in America during the late-19th and early-20th centuries. Born in Germany, Weinman immigrated to the United States at age 14. Shortly thereafter, he studied sculpture in New York at both the renowned Cooper Union and the Art Students League. As an artist, he came to maturity during the Gilded Age, resulting in numerous commissions for portraits, memorials, reliefs and architectural sculpture. Held in high regard by his peers, he served as longtime president
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BY JULIE BONNER WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
From coaching Little League to assisting veterans, countless people throughout West Michigan find unique ways to use their talents, time and energy for the greater good.
For the love of
heir reasons are many. Their paychecks are uncashable. Their contributions touch lives in unforgettable ways. They are the people in our community who give back, hands-on. They are the ones who are present to empower and bring joy to those in need. West Michigan is home to countless volunteers who share their time and gifts with others. Among them are four superstars who stand out as key to the functioning of the organizations to which they give their time: Greg Mast, a volunteer coach for Northeastern Little League; Terry and Cathie Higgins, a husband-and-wife team who volunteer together at Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding; Pat Galloway, who gives her time at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans; and Suzan Couzens, a volunteer at Dégagé Ministries.
Suzan Couzens speaks with residents at Dégagé Ministries.
Suzan Couzens, Dégagé Ministries “Dégagé Ministries is the heart of the community,” said volunteer Suzan Couzens, who serves the homeless and underprivileged in urban Grand Rapids as a faith community nurse. “It’s a safe environment; everyone is treated with dignity and respect.” Describing herself as being in “preferment,” Couzens said she doesn’t consider herself retired, but she is doing what she prefers to do: help others. Her journey as a volunteer for Dégagé Ministries began when a pastor for Heartside Ministry spoke at her church. “I thought, ‘Wow, I wonder if I could do some of what I’m learning (faith community nursing) with homeless people?’ My heart just kept getting more and more engaged,” she said. “Faith community nursing is (asking), ‘Where are you at spiritually? Do you lack faith? Hope?’ “But we do focus on other functions of nursing,” Couzens added. “Our practice focuses on removing barriers, understanding what kinds of changes might serve them better.” Her work with Dégagé Ministries also includes organizing the weekly Foot Spa Day, a time for locals — mostly from Grand Rapids’ Heartside neighborhood — to come in to soak their feet in warm water MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 31
Greg Mast at the ballfield in Grand Rapids’ Huff Park.
enhanced with lavender and tea tree oil. She also facilitates the Heartside All-Stars, a walking program for neighborhood residents. Other times, her contribution is as simple as sitting down with people who come in for a meal and chatting with them. Whether she’s leading the way with initiatives or simply taking time to sit and talk, Couzens epitomizes what it is to be a volunteer: It’s the place where passion and compassion meet. “I would encourage people who are considering volunteering to be free to say ‘yes,’” Couzens said. “What is it that you can do? When you volunteer, you need to find something that fits your passion. Seek an opportunity that fits with you, what your gifts are.”
utes. He’s come a long way since first deciding to volunteer, something he said he went into feeling unprepared. “(When) thinking about volunteering and approaching kids, I didn’t have the first idea what I was going to do,” Mast said, “but to be blessed with kids who want to play … it’s an easy way to establish bonds that can evolve into other areas when Little League age is finished.” For Mast, volunteering for Little League is most rewarding when players seek him out as their next coach. “It becomes more rewarding the more time goes by,” Mast said. “To me, to be a successful volunteer is when people want
Greg Mast, Northeastern Little League Growing up playing Little League baseball in Byron Center, Greg Mast probably didn’t know he’d one day become a coach. But when his two sons wanted to start playing in Little League games, he stepped in to volunteer. “I thought it was a good idea to be at practices with my boys and to help,” Mast said. “Seeing there is always a need for people to help out, that’s how it started; just wanting to spend time with my kids.” Mast volunteers for about 10 weeks of practice, followed by six to eight weeks of games. The time is spent practicing three times each week during the preseason, about six hours of field time with the players. The teams he coaches play about twice a week, each game lasting about 90 min32 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Terry and Cathie Higgins assist rider Riley Mulder at the Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding.
“It becomes more rewarding the more time goes by. To me, to be a successful volunteer is when people want you to come back, they request you. I’ve been fortunate, with people saying, ‘My son would like to have you as a coach.’” — Greg Mast
“Seeing the progress the kids make from week-to-week or year-to-year, you watch a kid go from being afraid of being on a horse to riding independently and smiling and laughing the entire class; that’s the payoff.” — Cathie Higgins
you to come back, they request you. I’ve been fortunate, with people saying, ‘My son would like to have you as a coach.’”
Terry and Cathie Higgins, Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding It was the solution they’d been seeking. When Terry and Cathie Higgins were looking for a cause to volunteer for, it was Cathie’s love of horses — and history of working with them — that led the couple to the Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding in Rockford. Equest’s mission is to help persons with physical, mental and social/emotional challenges through equine-based therapy. Their clients range from children to older adults. “We went out to Equest, spent a couple hours out there and I was hooked,” said Terry, adding he knew nothing about horses at the time. “It was a learning experience for me from the get-go.” Now volunteering on Thursday evenings, the couple spends their time grooming, tacking and walking alongside horses for riders who need that assistance. While Terry has learned with time, having Cathie nearby provided plenty of experienced advice. “I grew up working with horses and
showing horses. For a long time, it was my full-time job,” Cathie said. “The farm I was working at went out of business, (then) I had a couple of kids and got out of (working with) horses.” It was hearing about Equest from a friend with a son in the program that led Cathie, with Terry by her side, back to the equine world, this time as a volunteer. That was almost eight years ago, and for four hours each Thursday, the duo still can be found contributing to the organization that won their hearts. “Seeing the progress the kids make from week-to-week or year-to-year, you watch a kid go from being afraid of being on a horse to riding independently and smiling and laughing the entire class,” Cathie said. “That’s the payoff.”
Pat Galloway, Grand Rapids Home for Veterans Since retiring from her full-time job at Butterworth Hospital, Pat Galloway, a volunteer for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans since 2011, has filled her days sharing smiles and laughter with the veterans she serves. “I love it. I get back as much as I give out,” Galloway said. “It’s just a very joyful feeling to see a smile on these guys.”
Describing her duties as “a little bit of this and a little bit of that,” Galloway accompanies residents of the Home for Veterans to the facility’s ceramics classes and woodworking area, and takes them for walks on the wooded grounds. She sometimes brings coffee and conversation to residents and will read to them. On Christmas mornings, she can be found handing out gifts. One special volunteer project she reminisces about was helping a veteran of World War II write his autobiography. “He was in the Seabees,” she recalled. “He told me about how they tied him to the rail (of the ship) when he was on duty, so he wouldn’t get washed off. He had quite a story.” The joy in volunteering comes from the relationships she forms with the people she cares for, spending time laughing with those known for their sense of humor, doing extras like bringing ice cream to a resident on his birthday, and simply smiling when remembering one veteran who started calling her his girlfriend. “It’s getting to know the guys and getting to know their life stories and getting close to them,” Galloway said. “I enjoy just hanging GR out with them.”
Pat Galloway (right) shares a laugh with resident Pete Peterson at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 33
34 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
BY MYRNA ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
THE MEDICAL MILE’S IMPACT EXTENDS ACROSS (AND BEYOND) GRAND RAPIDS.
Quality of life eople often remark about the Medical Mile in Grand Rapids, but it is more than a stretch of cement on Michigan Street. In fact, its connectors include the entirety of the city’s medical facilities, colleges and universities, as well as resources across the state. “Mile” markers are the people of the Grand Rapids region (and beyond) who benefit from its research, recruitment of specialists and quality of care. With inauspicious roots in 1996, Grand Rapids entrepreneur Jay Van Andel and his wife Betty, whose largess already had given Grand Rapids a hotel and an arena, had the vision for what would become the Van Andel Institute, a world-class cancer and education research center. Two years later, the Van Andels helped break ground for the new institute at the corner of Michigan Street and Bostwick Avenue. In 2000, the first phase of the VAI opened: a 160,000-square-foot facility with cascading skylights that would become home for the institute’s first researchers. That same year, Grand Rapids Community College opened the Calkins Science Center at 226 Bostwick Ave. NE. In 2003, Grand Valley State University opened the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences at
P
“Eighty percent of our (most recent) graduates are staying in West Michigan, and most of them right here in Grand Rapids. They’re staying here and raising their families, creating this vital place we call home.” — Thomas Haas 301 Michigan St. NE. In 2004, Spectrum Health launched the Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center at 100 Michigan St. NE. In 2009, came VAI’s Phase II, comprising 240,000 square feet of additional research space. In 2010, Michigan State University opened its Secchia Center College of Human Medicine at 15 Michigan St. NE. In 2011, Spectrum Health opened the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital at 100 Michigan St. NE. Ferris State University opened its Grand Rapids pharmacy college location tucked next to the MSU medical school in 2012. And in 2017, MSU opened its Grand Rapids Research Center at 400 Monroe Ave. NW. Together, these facilities lining the steep Michigan Street corridor formed what Rich DeVos would call the “Medical
Mile,” a medical, health and research enterprise backed by a potent combination of state and nonprofit funding and local philanthropy. These institutions — along with numerous others beyond the Mile, such as the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Mercy Health Saint Mary’s Hospital, Ferris State University and Metro Health/ University of Michigan — are raising the bar in Grand Rapids, each training students; fostering research; pioneering therapies, treatments and medical technologies; and offering members of the greater community a quality and breadth of care they once had to travel long distances to find. “Fortunately, the city has always been a place where entrepreneurs made their mark, where philanthropy was a way of life and where innovation was a value beyond measure,” wrote VAI President Dave Van Andel about the Medical Mile in a recent article for the Grand Rapids Business Journal, a sister publication. “It was those qualities that led to a new force in the region, one focused on health sciences and education.”
Collaborating Dylan Dues grew up in Lowell loving science, and he nurtured that love in his
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 35
Top: Heather DeJonge with high school student Lucas Sherman Below & page 34: Dylan Dues
Institutions along the Medical Mile are not only collaborating, they are improving access to health care education for all students.
36 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
high school biology class, taught by Heather DeJonge. Later, at Central Michigan University, Dues turned his scientific focus to the brain. “I’ve always been fascinated by the way the human brain works, just on a molecular level,” Dues said. “I started learning about molecular biology, how neurons and cells communicate with each other and their relevance to human disease.” After graduating in 2013, Dues did three years of Parkinson’s research in the lab of Dr. Jeremy Van Raamsdonk at the Van Andel Research Institute. After his research stint, Dues enrolled in the M.D./Ph.D. program at MSU’s College of Human Medicine. The program is a collaboration between MSU and VAI that prepares medical students for both practice and research. “My goal is to become a research physician, where part of the time I’m seeing patients in the hospital and part of the time I’ll be doing research — the best of both worlds, hopefully,” he said. While Dues was working at VAI, he also served as a research mentor to DeJonge. She was studying at the institute through a program called Partners in Science, which trained high school teachers to do realworld research and bring it back to the classroom. “He was really patient with me because some of the equipment and the processes were unfamiliar,” DeJonge said of her former student. After her VAI research stint, DeJonge returned to her Lowell classroom, bringing with her an incubator, tabletop microscopes and a batch of C. elegans research worms (“They have similar genes
to the human genome,” she explained.) donated by VAI staff. DeJonge is passing along the research techniques she learned at VAI to her high school students, four of whom now are pursuing research degrees at Michigan colleges. Collaboration between institutions is a hallmark of educational programs along the Medical Mile. On the fifth floor of the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, GVSU students — graduate and undergraduate — and professionals from local industry collaborate on medical devices via the applied Medical Device Institute, or aMDI. Dr. Brent Nowack, a Jackson native with an extensive background in medical devices and robotics, founded aMDI in 2016. Nowack and his students form multidisciplinary teams from the health care professions, communications and other fields to serve the particular needs of their clients. “I tell my students, ‘You will do this in industry,’” Nowack said. “They love it!” The team at aMDI has engineered everything from an app that limits the amount of time children spend in front of computer and TV screens to a cannula, a device that aids the pumping of blood into the aortic arch. This year, the aMDI team helped local medical device company Encoris develop the S2T Surgical Smart Trainer, a simulator for training surgeons to perform spinal surgery. The device earned Encoris a 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year nomination from Ernst and Young, and the aMDI team recently landed $1.3 million in funding to develop advanced 3-D medical devices.
“We’re supporting the GVSU mission and vision,” Nowack said, “but we’re serving the community.” Institutions along the Medical Mile are not only collaborating, they are improving access to health care education for all students.
Improving access Bridgett Gray, a student in GRCC’s Associate Degree nursing program, dreamed of being a nurse, but to attend nursing school, she had to cut back on her work schedule: “I had no idea how I would pay for this entire degree,” she said. Last year, Gray became one of the first recipients of a scholarship from the GRCC Health Care Professionals Education Scholarship Fund, an award co-established with Spectrum Health to help students with financial needs study in one of GRCC’s health care programs. “Receiving the letter stating
I was a recipient provided me confirmation that I was where I was meant to be,” Gray said. “This scholarship gave me hope that my dream of becoming a nurse will be realized.” The MSU College of Human Medicine also is providing equal access to medical education to students from a range of Michigan colleges and universities (GVSU among them) through its Early Assurance Program. The program gives preference to aspiring medical students who are the first in their families to attend college, who attended low-income high schools and who qualify for need-based financial aid. Students accepted into the program must agree to work in Michigan for a specified period, serving underserved populations. “If health care is to serve all peoples, we need to train physicians that represent all those who seek care,” MSU College of Human Medicine Dean Norman Beauchamp said. “Increasing the number of physicians who come from diverse backgrounds … is an imperative.”
Enriching the community
Dr. Norman Beauchamp, dean of the MSU College of Human Medicine
GVSU President Thomas Haas is grateful to see so many of the university’s graduates working along the Medical Mile. “Of the 25,000 total students we have, almost half are studying some kind of health or health care curriculum,” Haas said. “If you’re at Spectrum or Saint Mary’s or Metro, you’re going to be engaging with a Grand Valley graduate.” GVSU grads are working in local health care because — as the Medical Mile took form — GVSU officials tailored programming to meet its needs. “We’re providing talent that is so relevant to the success of our partners,” Haas said. In fact, the student demand for the university’s health care programs is so
Dr. Brent Nowack with student Noah Keefer
intense, that this month, GVSU will open the 84,000-square-foot Raleigh J. Finkelstein Hall at 500 Lafayette Ave. NE and, in 2021, a 168,000-square-foot, unnamed facility — both devoted to health care education. GVSU’s strong alumni presence on the Medical Mile is healthy for the community, Haas said. “Eighty percent of our (most recent) graduates are staying in West Michigan, and most of them right here in Grand Rapids,” he said. “They’re staying here and raising their families, creating this vital place we call home.” Spectrum CEO Richard Breon explained, “(The Mile) is a vital part of the economic engine of the community.” Breon, whose tenure at Spectrum coincided with the development of the Mile, oversaw the establishment of the Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center, the LemmenHolton Cancer Pavilion and the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. He will retire at the end of this year. “When I look back, the buildings are one thing,” Breon said, “but it’s really what’s going on inside them.”
Prioritizing care For the patients and their families who seek medical care, it’s all about the quality of care. Trent Ahlefeld, 10, has what is known as a severely complex heart along with pulmonary hypertension; his family has lived all over the U.S. seeking treatment for him. Now, the pediatric cardiology team at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital is working to tailor a treatment for Trent. Recently, the hospital created a model of his heart, using a 3-D printer. “For so long, we have been on hold with Trent’s health,” said Ahlefeld’s mother Meghan Thompson, “and now, we have proactive doctors, the possibility of options and overall amazing people who care about Trent as a child and not just a sick heart.” Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital is a significant boon to a city of Grand Rapids’ size, said Dr. Robert Connors, a pediatric surgeon at the hospital, and its many specialized treatment programs are another. (Of the approximately 4,500 hospitals in the country, only 200 are children’s hospitals, Connors said.) The hospital benefits not only the families who come to Grand Rapids for treatment, but also those families who already live here and can stay in their hometown for treatment when their child is ill. “When I came here (in 1990), a lot of children were leaving this area for specialty care … and they often had to go a long way,” Connors said. “Now, that’s rare.” At Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, located a little south of the Medical Mile at 235 Wealthy St. SE, quality of MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 37
“When I came here (in 1990), a lot of children were leaving this area for specialty care … and they often had to go a long way. Now, that’s rare.” — Dr. Robert Connors
Top right: Jynel Rodgers and her daughters, Sophia, Arlee and Beatrix. Bottom left: Starr Sutton, a pediatric physical therapy assistant at Mary Free Bed, helps 8-year-old Arlee Rodgers regain strength.
care has long been the focus. Not long ago, Arlee Rodgers, an 8-year-old with spastic cerebral palsy diplegia, took advantage of Mary Free Bed’s therapeutic services after undergoing selective dorsal rhizotomy, a surgical procedure to reduce the spasticity in her limbs. At first, Arlee was “floppy like a noodle,” said her mom Jynel, but as she worked with her physical therapist, Starr Sutton, walking and dancing and standing for progressively longer periods, she started to gain strength. On Valentine’s Day, Arlee stood for a long time, working on her valentines. After her release from the hospital, she walked more freely, dressed herself and even celebrated at a pool party. “The extraordinary thing is that she can do ordinary things,” Jynel Rodgers said. “Mary Free Bed took care of my whole child. They didn’t just give her physical or occupational therapy. They made sure she was happy.”
GR and beyond Under the leadership of CEO and President Kent Riddle, Mary Free Bed (which boasts more than 110 specialized medical and sports rehabilitation programs) expanded its network of partnerships with hospitals and care centers in all but two Michigan counties. “We have helped and are helping to expand community access to a rare breed of doctors, physiatrists and to rehabilitative specialists, like orthotists and prosthetists, in communities where rehabilitative options may have been limited,” Mary Free Bed Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael Jakubowski said. “Geography shouldn’t determine the kind of rehabilitation someone gets,” Riddle added. At the Van Andel Institute, Peter Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc. and VAI chief medical officer, is thinking even bigger. Jones is a pioneer in epigenetics, the science of how genes are regulated. He said he wants to share VAI’s expertise in that field and its innovative research in both cancer and Parkinson’s disease further afield. Jones added he envisions the Medical Mile as a campus and VAI as a hub — a place for researchers from around the world. “We can bring people here to Grand Rapids to strategize the future,” he said. GR
38 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
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is an enthusiastic champion for Metro
seeking specialized state-of-the-art
ate care patients have come to expect
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treatments,” he said.
from Metro Health physicians. As the
of Michigan.
Metro Health recognizes patients
health landscape continues to change,
“It is allowing the health system
want to be in control of their own
Hahn’s ability to adapt and lead en-
to build and grow specialties and sub-
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alternatives.
healthcare in West Michigan.
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dining review BY IRA CRAAVEN
A meat lover’s dream SINCE OPENING IN the former home of Monte’s last year, Butcher’s Union seamlessly has nestled into Grand Rapids’ vibrant, ever-growing West Side. It was named Best New Restaurant in 2017 as part of the Grand Rapids Magazine’s 38th annual Dining Awards. This trendy establishment is known for two things: meat and whiskey, featuring more than 100 kinds of whiskies and spirits and a menu that changes almost every day, including fresh cuts of the day from Zeeland-based Michigan Craft Beef. During one Thursday evening visit with a friend, we were surprised to find the restaurant bursting with energy and packed to the brim. It is especially so during the warm months when both decks become crowd-pleasers. We opted to dine at the restaurant’s secondary bar, so we could skip the wait.
To start out, we ordered sangria from the happy hour menu ($11.75, serves 4) and the peppercorn slab bacon appetizer ($7.50) to share. The sangria was just what we were looking for — fruity, refreshing and perfectly balanced. Very thick-cut and glazed with Michigan maple syrup, the bacon — at first bite described as “awesome” — certainly did not disappoint. The sweet syrup followed by the rich flavor of the pork made for a perfect combination. Moving on to our entrées, we ordered the New York strip ($29) and the Icelandic cod ($18.75). The 14-ounce New York strip was juicy 50 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Butcher’s cut dish, featuring 8-ounce bavette from Michigan Craft Beef with poached turnips, pickled radishes and arugula.
The 14-ounce New York strip was juicy and flavorful without needing any help, but a coating of melted black garlic butter added a notably unique, but welcomed, sweet-and-tangy flavor profile.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Executive chef Alexis Rocha
and flavorful without needing any help, but a coating of melted black garlic butter added a notably unique, but welcomed, sweet-andtangy flavor profile. The cod, served breaded and fried, was a bit too salty for our taste. Though, the accompanying buttermilk potato sauce was excellent. We managed to save room for dessert because we just couldn’t resist the bourbon apple crisp ($9). Soft, yet still crisp, bourbonbraised apples; paper-thin slices of tart, fresh apples; plus, rich toffee caramel and almond streusel, topped with vanilla ice cream and served in a small cast-iron skillet — what more could you want in a dessert? (Yes, it tasted as good as it sounds.) On another visit, we decided to try two variations of mules, the Moscow Mule ($7) and the Kentucky Mule ($7). The Moscow Mule was refreshing and delicious, featuring a perfect blend of Tito’s vodka, fresh lime juice and ginger beer. The Kentucky Mule featured vanilla-
infused bourbon, fresh lemon juice and maple cinnamon syrup — a nice, refreshing twist on a classic drink. For an appetizer, we opted to try the roasted pork belly ($10.75), featuring kimchi, pineapple butter, cucumber-pineapple relish and micro radish greens. The pork was delightfully tender, melting in the mouth with every bite. However, we weren’t fond of the cold vegetables coupled with the hot pork. Moving on to dinner, we ordered the charred flank steak ($18.50) and the cut of the day from Michigan Craft Beef, which was a bavette ($22). The charred flank steak was topped with red wine reduction, crispy onion flakes and served with potato gratin and garlic green beans. Just like the pork appetizer, the juicy, tender steak melted in our mouths. The reduction sauce was an added tangy bonus, but the meat certainly could stand on its own. The perfectly cooked bavette was served with porcini rub, butter poached turnips, pickled radish, wilted greens and a savory tallow butter sauce. The bavette was similar to the flank steak, but the different sides made it feel like a completely new dish. The old-fashioned cheesecake ($7) caught our eye as we perused the menu, so we made sure to save room for this dessert, and we were glad we did. My friend noted this was the best cheesecake she had in years. The orange caramel topping and ginger snap crust complemented the rich flavor. The bourbon-soaked cherries on top were a unique twist. GR
Butcher’s Union
Address: 438 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 551-1323 Website: butchersuniongr.com
Dining ratings: Food: **** Service: *** Beverages: **** Atmosphere: **** Price: $-$$
Must try: New York strip Not so much: Icelandic cod
Guide to ratings: **** *** ** *
Exceptional Above Average Satisfactory Poor
¢ $ $$
Inexpensive (under $10) Moderate ($10-$20) Expensive (Over $20)
(Prices based on average entrée.)
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 51
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
dining listings A GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS IN GRAND RAPIDS AND BEYOND
The recommendations and reviews in the listings are the opinions of the editors. Restaurants are included by virtue of overall quality. We have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing (page 69).
DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS 1 Bun Restaurant — Build-your-own hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie dogs and sloppy Joe’s — all served on hot dog buns. Closed Sun. 2140 S Division Ave, 279-2943. Facebook. L, D ¢ Angel’s Thai Café — Extensive Thai fare. Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthai cafe.com. L, D ¢-$ 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 ¢-$ Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. L (not Sat), 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. bistrobella vita.com. L, D $-$$ Bobarino’s at The B.O.B. — Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Full-service bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ bobarinospizza. L, D ¢-$ Brick & Porter — Appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. 47 Monroe Center NW, 226-6928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat, Sun), L, D ¢-$ Bull’s Head Tavern — Large selection of appetizers, soups and salads. Entrées include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed 52 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Sun. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. the bullsheadtavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$
Charley’s Crab — Fresh seafood in a fine dining atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Gluten-free menu. Beer and extensive wine list. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com/charleyscrab. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ City Built Brewing Co. – Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer. Plus, Puerto Ricaninspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon-Tue. 820 Monroe Ave NW, 805-5755. citybuiltbrew $ ing.com. L, D The Chop House — Aged prime beef, seafood, pork and lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 4516131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. D $$
774-9463. divanigr.com. D
$-$$
Flanagan’s — Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. L, D ¢ Founders Brewing Co. — Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches. Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing. com. L, D ¢ Gilly’s at The B.O.B. — Handcrafted microbrews paired with seasonal fare. Tavern, small plates, seafood and more. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ gillysrestaurant. D $-$$ 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-spo rts. L, 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 $
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. grbrewing company.com. L (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$
– Lounge — Soups, salads, sandwichCitysen es, 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-rap ids. B, L, D ¢-$
Grand Rapids Garage Bar and Grill — “AllAmerican grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. L, D ¢
Cottage Bar — Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis, burgers, full bar and more. Closed Sun. 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. 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. grandwoods lounge.com. L, D ¢-$
Cygnus 27 — Stunning view from 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza. Menu features Mediterranean and Latin influences. Full bar. Sun brunch 10:30-2. Closed Mon. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6425. amwaygrand.com/din ing/cygnus-27. D (Tue-Sat) $$ Divani — European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW,
G.R.P.D. — Grand Rapids Pizza & Delivery offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. No alcohol. Open daily, with a few tables for dining in. 340 State St SE, 742-4773. grand rapidspizza.net. L, D ¢-$ The Heritage — GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan. Menu changes weekly. Wine and
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ryleesace.com MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 53
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, $-$$ 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 ¢-$ 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, 451-4677. hopcatgr.com. 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, 4598824. jgardellastavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), 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, 356-2000. thebob.com/judsons steakhouse. D $$ The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck — Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Private dining areas. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/din L, ing/the-kitchen-by-wolfgang-puck. D $-$$ )Leo’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. leosrest aurant.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Littlebird — Café-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch breakfast and lunch, including a full coffee menu, house-made sodas and egg creams, and the same array of pastries available at That Early Bird Café. Full bar. Open daily. 95 Monroe Center NW, 419-4168. thelittlebirdgr.com. B, L ¢ Lucky Luciano’s — Fifty gourmet pizza options, whole or by the slice. Takeout, delivery available. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 15 Ionia Ave SW, Suite 140, 356-4600. lucky lucianos.com. L, D ¢-$ 54 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Luna Taqueria y Cocina — Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. L, D ¢-$
can steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ ruths-chris-steak-house. L, D $$
Mazzo — From the owners of Uccello’s, housed in the former site of Tre Cugini. Modern Italian eatery featuring seafood, sandwiches, pasta and pizza; plus, full bar and happy hour Mon-Thu. Sun open for special events only. 122 Monroe Center NW, 7731687. mazzogr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$
)San Chez Bistro — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. B, L, D $-$$
Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant — Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar. com. D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$ 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. Brunch served Sat-Sun. Open daily. 35 Oakes St SW, 551-1713. newho telmertens.com. B (Mon-Fri), L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom — Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front patio. Full bar. Closed Mon. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. L, D ¢-$ Osteria Rossa – Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from executive chef/owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Closed Sun. 16 Monroe Center NE, 988-9350. osteriaro ssa.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Palace of India — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestau rant.com. L, D ¢-$ Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. L, D ¢-$ )Reserve — Wine bar offers extensive bythe-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr. com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Rockwell Republic — Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. 45 S Division Ave, 5513563. rockwellsrepublic.com. D $-$$ Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — Classic Ameri-
Six.One.Six — Innovative cuisine sources local ingredients in a cosmopolitan setting. Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking the Grand River. Open daily. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilove thejw.com/dining/six.one.six. B, L, D $-$$ 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. slows barbq.com. 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. social kitchenandbar.com/grand-rapids.html. B (Sat-Sun brunch), L, D $-$$ SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and glutenfree. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. L, D $ Stella’s Lounge — Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellasgr.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ Tavern On The Square — Tapas-style fare, plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Wheelhouse Kitchen and Cocktails — Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW, 226-3319. wheelhousegrand rapids.com. L, D $-$$ Zoko 822 — Basque-inspired cuisine featuring northern Spanish and southern French small plates; plus an extensive gin collection, craft beer and cocktails. Brunch served Sun. Open daily. 822 Ottawa Ave NW, 5415410. zoko822.com. L, D ¢-$ Z’s Bar & Restaurant — Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available.
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Open daily. 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar.com. L, 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. andoasiankitchen. com. L, D $ 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 ¢ )Butcher’s Union — Meat-and-whiskeycentric gastro-pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available. Brunch served on Sundays. 438 Bridge St NW, 551-1323. Facebook. L, D $
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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 ¢ El Sombrero — Offers “the original” wet burrito, dry ones, too. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. L, D ¢ Harmony Hall — West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves sausages, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Open daily. 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. har monybeer.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. the holidaybargr.com. L, D ¢ 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. newholland brew.com/knickerbocker. Brunch (Sun), L, D ¢-$ Long Road Distillers — Craft, small-batch distillery featuring variety of house-made snacks, sandwiches and entrées. Open daily. 537 Leonard St NW, 228-4924. longroad distillers.com. B (Sat-Sun brunch), D ¢-$
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MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 55
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. 636 Bridge St NW, 4588583. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing. com. 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, 2339799. tappyhourgr.com/monarchs-club. L, D ¢ One Bourbon — Trendy, two-level restaurant serving creative shareable plates, burgers, hot sandwiches and entrées. Full bar features more than 120 whiskies, plus other spirits, beer and wine. 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 ¢-$ 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-street-grill. 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. salvatores gr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ )The 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. Open 11 am-3 pm Mon-Sat. Closed Sun. 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. L ¢-$ Westside Social — “Reimagined” American-style tavern with locally sourced, housemade appetizers, burgers, seafood and other entrées. Full bar. Happy hour specials available Mon-Fri. Open daily. 2802 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 453-5877. westside.social. L (Tues-Sun), D ¢-$ 56 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
UPTOWN Big Willy’s Italian Beef — Authentic Chicago cuisine, featuring Italian sausage, Polish dogs and Chicago dogs, as well as Italian ice drinks. Open daily. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 2885824, bigwillysitalianbeef.com. L, D ¢ Bombay Cuisine — Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India. Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available. 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. eastownbombaycui sine.com. L, D $ )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. brewery vivant.com. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$
Brick Road Pizza — Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (gluten-free crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpiz za.com. L, D ¢-$ Brown Butter Creperie & Café — Locally sourced, made-from-scratch sweet and savory crepes and liege waffles. 1436 Wealthy St SE, 288-5038. brownbuttercrepes.com. B, L, D (Wed-Sat) ¢ Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 2334141. chezolga.com. L, D ¢-$ Curry Kitchen — Authentic Indian cuisine. Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 2421300. currykitchengr.com. L, D $ Donkey Taqueria — Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar. Open daily. 665 Wealthy St SE. don keygr.com. B (Sat and Sun), L, D ¢-$ East West Brewing Co. — Traditional American-style beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. 1400 Lake Dr SE, 288-5250. eastwest brewingcompany.com. L (Fri-Sat), D ¢-$ Electric Cheetah — Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Sun brunch. Open daily. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 4514779. electriccheetah.com. L, D ¢-$ Elk Brewing Co. — Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. elkbrewing.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢
Erb Thai — Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily. 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. L, D ¢ Georgina’s — Authentic Asian and Latin taqueria with appetizers, tacos, tamales, noodle bowls and more. No alcohol. Open daily. 724 Wealthy St SE, 454-1860. facebook.com/ georginasgr. L, D $-$$ 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. gojo ethiopiancuisine.com. L, D $ 2Grove — 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. D $$ Harmony Brewing Co. — Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Open daily. 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. L, D $ Jonny B’z — Beef, turkey and veggie hot dogs available, as well as burgers, sandwiches, wings, ribs and kids menu. Full bar. Closed Sun. 701 Wealthy St SE, 551-1108. jonnybz. com. L, D $
Little Africa Ethiopian Cuisine — Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. L, D ¢ Marie Catrib’s — Middle Eastern sandwiches, soups, salads. Deli, bakery, Turkish coffee, kids menu. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1001 Lake Dr SE, 454-4020. mariecat ribs.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D (Mon-Fri) ¢-$ Maru Sushi & Grill — Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant.com. L, D $-$$ 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 $ )Terra — 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 $-$$ Continued on page 60
EAT, DRINK, GATHER, AND RELAX
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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Executive chef Mary Hunter brings soulful flair to two RedWater Restaurant Group establishments.
Two-for-one deal
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58 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
MARY HUNTER Title: Executive chef Location: 5500 Cascade Road SE
caught up with her Mackinac Island colleagues in Panama City Beach, Florida, where they cooked through the winter at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort. Hunter returned to Mission Point Resort for two more seasons, building up sophistication and confidence in her cooking, plating and presentation. “I let my heart loose,” Hunter said. “That set the foundation for everything that I am doing later in life.” In 2008, the Grand Rapids Art Museum hired the rising star for her unmistakably artful cooking. She adored everything about the art scene, but the fast-paced kitchen life has a way of dampening enthusiasm. “I tried my hardest, but I was drained,” she recalled. So, she scaled back, looking for the right fit, cooking, bartending and cake decorating all over town. Then, thankfully, all of Hunter’s
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
ith just a hint of flirt, Mary Hunter, executive chef at both Cork Wine & Grille and Vintage Prime & Seafood located at Watermark Country Club, seeks to connect with patrons over a cozy indulgence that’s familiar but just unfamiliar enough to make you wonder how did she create that Lilly Pulitzer pinkand-green pizza (spoiler: it’s beet-pecan pesto with shaved Brussels). Her novel rendition of apple-kale-spinach salad — with dried blueberries and rum butterscotch vinaigrette — turns the classic childhood apples-and-caramel combination into a new grown-up expectation. Her salmon superfood entrée — a cylinder jam-packed with ancient grains, chia seeds, kale, dried berries and sunflower seeds, and stacked with pan-seared salmon fillet — defies the stereotype nutritional, healthy foods can taste so voguish chic. Delicious and soulful equally “Every single person describes Hunter and her glittering in my kitchen has a culinary creativity at the two RedWavoice and I listen to ter Restaurant Group establishments. ideas and dreams. It’s a prelude to her menu, inspired I’m determined to by superfood ingredients recognized play to our strengths.” for health and healing, by the pattern and geometry in architecture, and — Mary Hunter by the tantalizing notion of crafting meals with a story to tell. When Hunter stepped foot in Vintage, a 38-seat posh steakhouse, pans clattered, flames leapt, and all the compelling joy and craziness of chef life consumed her. For years, Hunter juggled simultaneous kitchen shifts at multiple restaurants, working “ridiculous” hours for low pay. “This perfectly wonderful room put a fire inside me,” said Hunter, referring to Vintage. “Everything felt brand new.” Since she was an itty-bitty girl, cooking, eating and art were inextricably linked in her childhood by her chef mother and graphic artist father. While at East Kentwood High School, Hunter enrolled in the culinary arts program at Kent Career Tech Center. Her mother was less than enthused, telling the youngster, “‘Cheffing will break your heart, your soul, your body and bank account,’” Hunter recalled. “She was right about everything.” After graduating from East Kentwood in 2002, Hunter — only 17 years old — scooted up to Mackinac Island to work the peak season at Mission Point Resort’s fine dining restaurant, since renamed Epicurean. “It’s a whole different operation up there because you’re thrown in with a lot of European chefs with daunting expectations,” Hunter said. “I was very fluid with it and could keep the pans rolling and do 20 things at once.” Shortly before Labor Day, Hunter returned to attend Grand Rapids Community College; but, soon, the money ran out and she
hard work paid off when she landed at Cork and Vintage. Now, she’s shimmering with ideas and adding an emotional layer, intending to woo you. “They turned me from a line cook to an executive chef,” Hunter said. “They took a risk on me.” Hunter reaches for wonderful ingredients with a luminous beginning. She knows exactly what’s on the plate, how much it cost, its backstory. Her rainbow trout from Indian Brook Trout Farm comes right out of the largest freshwater aquifer in Michigan, which is 51 degrees year-round, so the fish is market ready all year. Hunter and her team butcher and portion whole beef loins from Byron Center Meats; braise, blacken or barbecue (free-range and antibioticfree) Amish chicken; and are gleeful when the bimonthly delivery from Detroit brings Marcona almonds, arborio rice, black rice and specialty pastas — pricey, but worth it. “Every single person in my kitchen has a voice and I listen to ideas and dreams,” Hunter said. “I’m determined to play to our strengths.”
When she’s not scheduled in the kitchen, she surrounds herself with a huge stack of cookbooks — preferably tapas and the grand dames of cooking and food writing — and peruses Pinterest and Food52, a crowd-sourced food community. “If you’re not checking Pinterest, and the trendy stuff on the internet, for inspiration, then it’s a missed opportunity,” Hunter said. But when she’s truly not working, it’s off to Chicago. Hunter is a connoisseur of the city’s culinary scene. She roams on foot, admiring the Chicago architecture and dining at her three favorites, which are Michelin-starred Longman & Eagle, a Logan Square restaurantboutique inn; Half Acre Breer Co., where they brew purposefully rough, American micro beers and hip, rustic food; and the Chicago French Market, literally located inside of the Ogilvie train station. “I walk so much in Chicago that I come home with shin splints,” Hunter said. “I’m looking for inspiration.” — JAYE BEELER
Barley salad (serves 4)
Barley 1 cup pearled barley 3 cups water ¼ teaspoon salt Bring the barley, water and salt to a boil. Cover pot and reduce to a low simmer, check after 25 minutes to ensure barley is cooked and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork, spread out on a pan and cool in the refrigerator.
Roasted Vegetables 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cubed 2 cups assorted mushrooms, cleaned 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite size ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Heat oven to 400 degrees. Cube butternut squash, clean mushrooms and cut cauliflower. Toss all in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast vegetables in a 400-degree oven until browned. Set aside to cool.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Vinaigrette ½ cup rice wine vinegar
4 tablespoons yellow curry powder
½ cup white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
/8 cup minced fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
3 cups vegetable or grapeseed oil
Combine both vinegars, fresh herbs, salt, pepper and curry powder in blender or food processer. While blending, slowly drizzle in oil to emulsify.
For plating 2 cups baby spinach
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
¼ cup sunflower seeds
¼ cup Michigan honey
To assemble the salad, toss barley, roasted vegetables and spinach in a bowl with the vinaigrette. Plate this salad on plates or bowls, top with grated parmesan, sunflower seeds and drizzled honey. MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 59
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Continued from page 56 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 oyster bar and rotating specials. Carry-out available. Closed Sun. 1146 Wealthy St SE, 288-5646. wikiwikipoke shop.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 and Sun), L, D ¢-$ Yesterdog — Specializes in the “good oldfashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. 1505 Wealthy St SE, 336-0746. yesterdog.com. L, D ¢
Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection. com/roses. L, D $
available. Closed Sun and Mon. 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. L, D ¢-$
SOUTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS/ KENTWOOD
East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. L, D ¢-$
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. Familyowned and -operated. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 141 28th St SE, 534-7770. Facebook. 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 (Hilton GR Airport), 957-0100. doubletree grandrapids.com/ganders-restaurant. 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 ¢
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 ¢-$
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. bigessports grill.com. L, D ¢-$
Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen — Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar. Open daily. 2213 Wealthy St, 805-5231. caroli nalck.com. 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. elarri eromexicangrill.com. 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. hall streetbakery.com. B, L, D ¢-$
Derby Station — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. Open daily. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 3013236. derbystation.com. L, D $
Beltline Bar — Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. 16 28th St SE, 2450494. beltlinebar.com. L, D $
India Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. 3760 S Division Ave, 2431219. indiatowngrr.com. L, D ¢-$
José Babushka’s — Old local favorite is back after 20 years. Menu includes starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabush kas.com. L, D $
Brass Ring Brewing — Small-batch, stylespecific brewery in the Alger Heights neighborhood. 2404 Eastern Ave SE, 460-1587. brassringbrewing.com. L, D $
Jade Garden — Chinese cuisine with some American dishes. Children’s menu, large selection of tropical cocktails. Open daily. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 455-8888. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar. Takeout available. Open daily. 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cbanatresamigos.com. 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. thelast chancetavern.com. L, D ¢
Cantina Mexican Grill — Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drivethru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantina mexicangrill.biz. L (Sun-Thu), D $
Le Kabob — Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily. 3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. L, D ¢-$
EAST GRAND RAPIDS
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 (TueFri), D ¢-$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch. 60 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
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 $
China Yi Wang — Chinese dishes including spicy Hunan. No alcohol. Open daily. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. Facebook. L, D ¢-$
Mandarin — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine. Cocktails. Lunch menu. Open daily. 2460 28th St SE, 530-3300. mandaringrand rapids.com. L, D ¢-$
Daddy Pete’s BBQ — Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats, plus desserts and sides. No alcohol. Catering
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. mik adogr.com/main. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$
Mi Tierra — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D ¢ Nu-Thai Bistro — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries and noodle dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. L, D ¢-$ The Old Goat — Creative cuisine in Alger Heights from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads, kids menu, full bar. Outdoor patio. Open daily. 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. B (Mon-Fri), L, D ¢-$
Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily. No alcohol. 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 2469966. 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, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. L, D $ Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine, including sushi. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban.com. L, D $-$$
Pal’s Indian Cuisine — Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol. Open daily. 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsin diancuisine.com. L, D $
Shiraz Grille — Authentic Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar. Closed Mon. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 9497447. shirazgrille.com. L (Fri-Sun), D $-$$
Pho Anh Trang — Vietnamese, Chinese,
Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine,
Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni. net. L, D ¢-$$
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 ¢ Thai Express — Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiex pressgr.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. tokyo grillsushi.com. L, D ¢-$
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w w w. n ative s te mce ll.com MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 61
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
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 ¢-$ Bangkok View — Authentic Thai cuisine. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1233 28th St SW, 5318070. bangkokviewthairestaurant.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. blueginger kitchen.com. L, D ¢-$ ChinaTown — Asian restaurant and Japanese steakhouse with tabletop-style meals available. Full bar. Open daily. 69 28th St SW, 452-3025. L, D ¢-$ Far-East Chinese Restaurant — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carryout and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. L, 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 ¢-$ Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily. 627 28th St SW, 531-2800. L, D $
Mon. 1760 44th St SW, 805-5077. kitzingenbrewery.com. L, D ¢-$
3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charlies barandgrille.com. L, D ¢-$
Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1742 28th St SW, 261-2280. lindomexicogr.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 ¢
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. Kids eat free Sun-Wed. Full bar. Open daily. 1730 28th St SW, 532-2510. mainstpub.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, 5309700. monellis.com. L, D ¢-$ 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 ¢ 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. spec trumlanes.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D $
NORTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS 7 Monks Taphouse — Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads, pesto pasta and Korean nachos. 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 $-$$
Holly’s Back Door Bar & Grill — Full menu and good selection of munchies at Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Full bar. Closed SunMon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. B, 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 ¢-$
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-
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.
62 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
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 house-brewed 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, 785-1001. 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. freds italian.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. fujiyamabis ¢-$ tro.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. goldenwok grandrapids.com. L, 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 ¢-$ 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. graydonscross ing.com. L, D $ Green Restaurant — Sandwiches, salads, burgers, seafood and much more. Serves
beer, wine and cocktails. Closed Mon. 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-8294. greenrestau rantgrandrapids.com. L, D (Tue-Sat) $
Gus’s Original — Appetizers, salads and soups, stone-oven pizzas, gourmet sandwiches; coffees and ice cream bar. Outdoor seating. No alcohol. Open daily. 3123 Leonard St NE, 805-5599. gussoriginal.com. B, 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, 6490407. jakusushi.com. L, 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, 2723778. kitchen67.com. L, D ¢-$ La Huasteca — Homemade recipes, vegetarian 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 ¢-$ 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 $ 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. lucyscafegr.com. B, L $-$$ 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, 784-3806. millcreektavern gr.com. L, D ¢-$ 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), 3653989. mingtenrestaurant.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, 784-9886. thegilmorecollec tion.com/nickfinks. D $ Noodle Monkey — Ramen-based eatery in renovated Rak Thai Bistro space includes some Rak Thai favorites, also noodle dish-
In The of GR Start your summer off right C I T Y F L AT S H O T E L . C O M
DOWNTOWN GR
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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Vander Mill
es and pho. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. Facebook. L (Mon-Fri), 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. paliograndrapids.com. L, D $-$$ Reds At Thousand Oaks — Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck. Open daily. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 4477750. eatatreds.com. L, D $-$$ 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 (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$ Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar. Open daily. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 3646266. riograndsteakhouse.com. L, D $-$$ The Score — Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. the score-restaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Sheshco Grill — Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill. net. L, D $ Thai Chef — Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. L, D $ Twisted Rooster — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar features local beers/wines. Open daily. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. twisted-rooster.com. L, D ¢-$$ 64 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. L, D ¢-$
NORTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS
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 $
Amore Trattoria Italiana — Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. Housemade desserts. Banquet facility. Closed Mon. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5344. amoretrat toriaitaliana.com. D (Tue-Sat) $
Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 791-6660. mrgyros drivethru.com. L, D ¢-$
Balinski’s — Polish-American soups, appetizers, burgers, sandwiches and entrées, including pierogis, golabki and kielbasa; plus, traditional American options and Polish desserts. Closed Mon. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 288-5440. balinskis.com. L, D ¢-$ 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 ¢-$ Empire Chinese Buffet II — All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol. Open daily. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. L, D ¢-$ Erb Thai Café — Thai fare for dining in/taking out. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 4160 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 724-4102. erbthaigr.com. L, D ¢ 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, 7855800. fricanospizza.com. D ¢-$ Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — PanAsian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsu premebuffet.letseat.at. L, D ¢ Home Team Grill — Sports-themed eatery with a selection of local, domestic and international beers. Open daily. 4322 Remembrance Rd, 551-3457. hometeamgrill.word press.com. L, D ¢-$ Hunan Chinese Restaurant — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. 1263
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. perrinbrewing.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 ¢-$ Tillman’s — Chicago-style chophouse in former warehouse district. Known for steaks but something for every taste. Full bar. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. tillmans restaurant.com. L, D $-$$ Three Happiness Restaurant — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. threehappinessgr.com. L, D ¢-$ Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 7919922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $
ADA/CASCADE/LOWELL Ada Pour House — Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a twist on comfort food. Salads, sandwiches and entrées, including fish and steak. Craft beers and wine. Open daily. 6749 E Fulton St, Ada, 920-7941, adapour house.com. B (Sun brunch only), L, D $-$$ 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 $-$$ Big Boiler Brewing — Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer and cider. Plus, new American cuisine, including burgers, fish, sandwiches and kids menu. Open
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
Vander Mill — Seasonal menu with many locally sourced ingredients. Starters, salads, entrées and large plates served family style. Hard ciders on tap. Open daily. 505 Ball Ave NE, 259-8828. vandermill.com. L, D (MonSat) $-$$
daily. 318 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3155. bigboil erbrewing.com. D $
The Blue Moose Sports Pub — Farm-totable 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 $-$$ The Euro Bistro — European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, woodfired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar. Closed Sun. 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. euro bistrogr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century 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, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. L, D $-$$ Holland & Fitz Delicatessen — Deli sandwiches with in-house baked bread featuring corned beef hash and pork shoulder. Breakfast and kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 7277 Thornapple River Dr SE, Suite B, 9207090. hollandandfitzdelicatessen.com. B, L, D $
)Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$$ 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. CaterMAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 65
pints of interest BY PAT EVANS
An exciting prospect in beer is the growing segment of craft Pilsners, specifically all the Pilsners making their way out of brewhouses.
66 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
FOLLOWING YEARS OF astronomical growth, craft beer is entering a trying time. The industry has decelerated over the past two years as it has settled into the market, finding its place among those who love it and those who are set in their ways or are wary of trying the other side of more flavorful beer. Our own Founders Brewing Co. has been able to shake the stalemate, growing 34 percent in 2017 and finding massive success with its All Day IPA, a brand itself that grew 37 percent and makes up 54 percent of the 15- and 18-pack can market in the U.S. But even so, the market for new IPA drinkers is fairly saturated, at least for now. Although, Founders could be set to strike gold again. An exciting prospect in beer is the growing segment of craft Pilsners, specifically all the Pilsners making their way out of brewhouses. The crisp, clean and versatile beer is great any time of the year and the most refreshing of brews. While I wholeheartedly favor the Pilsner trend and believe Pilsners to be, perhaps, the most important beer of the industry moving forward, a new movement is afoot. Founders and California’s Firestone Walker Brewing Co. recently have debuted light, easy-
to-drink beers simply dubbed “lagers” in cans. Both breweries are large, influential and already have made major impacts with easy-to-drink beers — Founders with All Day and Firestone Walker with 805, a light blonde ale taking over the West Coast. Now, they’re building on these successes in the light beer realm, with cans of Founders’ Solid Gold and Firestone’s Firestone Lager hitting the shelves earlier this year. Solid Gold was a staple in the Founders taproom as a light ale, but it has been reformulated to take shape as a mass-market lager, similar to those still dominating the beer market despite the hype of craft. Made with corn to lighten the body and a touch of hops, the 4.4 percent ABV beer still is more flavorful than the massproduced lagers everyone knows. With Founders’ size, reputation and marketing prowess already on display with All Day IPA across the globe, it shouldn’t be a surprise if (and when) Solid Gold takes off and is seen next to Bud and Miller products. It also should be noted Founders already is the No. 1 craft brewery in can sales. Solid Gold might sully Founders’ reputation for some of the most diehard craft fans — if they weren’t already turned off by Mahou San Miguel’s investment in 2015 — but it’s the industry’s best shot at continuing to grow and take share from national top-sellers like Bud, Miller and Coors, even as the big-name breweries continue to try to encroach on the craft market. And who can truly discredit the brewery that gives us such masterful beers as Breakfast Stout, KBS, Dirty Bastard and so many more? Simple lagers were once a staple for early craft beers, but at the time, the industry needed to standout with more flavorful beers. Now, it appears the time is right, and these classic brews could be yet another boon for one of the city’s favorite economic engines. — Pat Evans wrote the book “Grand Rapids Beer.” He also writes nationally on beer and spirits.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Founders goes for gold
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
ing. Full bar. Open daily. 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. L, D ¢-$
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 $-$$ Mynt Fusion Bistro — Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$ Ning Ye — Family-owned restaurant serves Chinese and Korean fare. No alcohol. Open daily. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888. ningye.info. L, D $ Noco Provisions — Laid-back, regionally inspired comfort cuisine. Outdoor seating on the patio. Full bar. Open daily. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 747-0300. nocogr.com. L, D $ )Nonna’s: The Trattoria — Fresh, Europeanstyle pastries, salads, soups and entrées made from scratch. Breakfast and lunch served seven days a week. Pizza available during lunch Tues-Sat. Brunch specials available Sat-Sun. 584 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 920-7028. eatwithnonna. com. B, L, D (Tues-Sat) ¢-$
ROCKFORD, MICHIGAN • 866.462.LIFT • SHORE-MATE.COM
)Noto’s Old World Italian Dining — Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. D $-$$ 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. sappororam enbar.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 ¢-$$ Shepards Grill & Tavern — Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Thornapple Brewing Co. — Brewpub features a wide selection of original beer, cider, wine and spirits brewed in seven-barrel brewing system. Plus, artisan pizza, appetizers and dessert. Closed Sun. 6262 28th St SE, 288-6907. thornapplebrewing.com. L (Sat), D $ MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 67
food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS
Trailhead Café — Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. 1200 East Paris Ave SE, 284-3664. trailheadcafegr.com. B, L ¢ Vintage Prime & Seafood — Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. vintageatcork.com. D $$ Zeytin — Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-2222. zeytin turkishrestaurant.com. L, D $
GRANDVILLE/HUDSONVILLE/ GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP Bangkok Taste — Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 674 Baldwin St, 667-8901. bang koktaste.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. elburritoloco4.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. villadun geon.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. hud sonvillegrille.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. osgood brewing.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. hudsonvillewinery.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. rainbow grillmichigan.com. B, L, D ¢-$ 68 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Rush Creek Bistro — Diverse menu in clublike 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 $
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 ¢-$
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 ¢-$
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 $
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, 8747290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. L (weekends), D $-$$ Boulder Creek Restaurant — Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolf club.com/restaurant. L, D ¢-$ Cedar Springs Brewing Co. — German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. L, D $ Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven. com. L, D $-$$ 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 ¢-$ 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. ramonas table.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. Brunch served 11 am-4 pm Sunday. Hand-crafted brews on tap. Open daily. 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrew ing.com. L, D ¢-$
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant — Breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and sandwiches. Menu includes extensive gluten-free, dairyfree and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 722 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 2650 East Beltline Ave SE (Centerpointe Mall), 956-7901; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arni esrestaurant.com. B, 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 Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. L, D $ First Wok — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstwokgr. 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, Grand Rapids, 808-3566; 8 E Bridge St NE, Rockford, 884-4100. thegreenwell.com. L, D $-$$ Herb & Fire Pizzeria — Fast-casual atmosphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria. com. L, D $ Peppino’s Pizzeria and Sports Grille — Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza. com. L, D ¢-$$ Pita House — Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. L, D ¢ Real Food Café — Fresh, locally sourced
Step into Spring traditional favorites, scrambles and madefrom-scratch 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 ¢
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. sun dancegrill.com. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) $ Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 9542002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 249-9344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520. 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, 7845011. vitalessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$
Since 1968 ... 4353 Three Mile Road N.E. | Grand Rapids | 616-363-6400 | kappeslandscapes.com
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 2 — GRM’s 2017 Restaurant of the Year ) — GRM’s 2017 Dining Award Winner Additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email stincher@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 69
cocktail hour BY TORRENCE R. O’HAIRE
The elegance of homemade orgeat WHEN I THINK OF A FLAVOR inspired by my own mother, I always think of the perfumed clarity of almond — not almonds themselves, per se, but that unique perfume of benzaldehyde that’s found explicitly in bitter cherries, peach pits, almond extract and, correlatively, my mom’s nearly famous sugar cookies. She’d make these for almost every holiday, cut into simple, seasonally appropriate shapes and iced with almond-laced buttercream — never too sweet and usually colored the palest pink (regardless of the holiday). That blossompink almond is a quintessential taste memory of mine, and it will always remind me of my mom. As I put together a “Mother’s Day” article, inspired by these memories of almond, I’m immediately drawn to use one of my favorite old-school cocktail ingredients, orgeat (pronounced or-zhah or or-zhat). Orgeat is an almond syrup but, unlike amaretto or crème d’amande/noyaux, is nonalcoholic, and always is made from raw almonds, so it contains a bit of fat and protein, enriching the texture of the cocktail. Many orgeat recipes involve an extended process of making almond milk, then enriching it with sugar and adjusting the flavor with a bit of orange flower water. This is a great technique and produces a lovely product; but, to be honest, for regular home usage, I’ve had excellent results using premade, store-bought almond milk as a base (that said, if you have the time/ interest, make your own — it’s delicious and recipes are easy to find online). Once you have your orgeat made, you can use it as the sweetener in all sorts of cocktails,
A true, vintage recipe, this is one of my absolute favorite cocktail-hour choices — austere, dry and “grown-up,” but still deliciously fragrant. 2 ½ ounces cognac ½ ounce orgeat 1 dash Angostura bitters Lemon twist, for garnish Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled mixing glass. Stir until well-chilled and combined, and strain into a chilled Nick and Nora glass, garnishing with a lemon twist. Tres chic. 70 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
The Japanese Cocktail
The Valentine A recipe of my own, inspired by mom’s cookies (without being too sweet). 1 ½ ounces aged rum 1 ounce heavy cream 1 ounce orgeat ½ ounce bourbon ¼ ounce fresh lemon juice 1 egg white 1 drop pure vanilla extract Soda water, to top Freshly grated nutmeg, to garnish
Orgeat is an almond syrup but, unlike amaretto or crème d’amande/noyaux, is nonalcoholic, and always is made from raw almonds.
Combine all ingredients in an empty shaker and shake very well for 20 seconds. Open shaker and fill with ice. Close shaker and shake a second time very hard for 10 seconds. Strain into a tall Collins glass and slowly top with soda water (be careful — it will foam like mad). Garnish with fresh nutmeg. Happy Mother’s Day!
Homemade orgeat The shortcut way… 1 cup unflavored, unsweetened almond milk (the best quality you can find, and make sure it’s not loaded with extra ingredients) ¾ cup granulated sugar ½ teaspoon orange flower water ½ teaspoon pure almond extract Pinch salt
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
Combine all ingredients in a lidded glass jar and shake until the sugar is dissolved. Tada! It’s orgeat! Note: Store your final product in the refrigerator; it will stay fresh for about a week.
but it’s best shown off in a drink with a fairly simple profile to let the creamy, floral almond notes shine; or, it could be used in something particularly complicated to integrate the flavors into something more complex. Thus, you’ll find it in both classic sour drinks, like a mai tai, and old-fashioned-style cocktails, like my personal favorite, the Japanese Cocktail, as well as some of the more complicated, 10-ingredient Tiki drinks that have seen a popular resurgence. The one warning I’ll give is not to substitute real orgeat for anything. I’ve seen people trying to make a Japanese Cocktail with amaretto, which is essentially as subtle as brushing your teeth with a golf club. Orgeat’s value is in its subtlety and delicacy, much like a shortbread cookie with a not-too-sweet buttercream message that says, “Love, Mom.” — 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. MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 71
cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN
Left and opposite page: Liz Buist with her children, who both have cystic fibrosis.
BY ANN BYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN
‘Love in action’ Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis lends a helping hand to West Michigan families battling cystic fibrosis.
C
ystic fibrosis is not just a lung disease. That’s what Liz Buist, a mother of two children who have cystic fibrosis, would like people to know about the disease. “It’s a cellular disease that affects the lungs, digestive system, reproductive system and other systems, and it can affect you mentally,” she said. “It’s a whole-body disease.” It’s also a time-consuming disease, she said, for those who must undergo treatments and therapies, and for those who care for them. She spends hours each day caring for her children with the disease. “People with CF look normal, but they work really hard every day to function like you and I do — to eat, to digest food, to breathe,” Buist said. “It’s also an invisible disease.” Cystic fibrosis isn’t invisible, however, to the nonprofit Friends & Families of Cystic 72 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Fibrosis, a local group that provides help and hope for those living with CF and their families. Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis also is behind the popular Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes event, which took place March 3 at the JW Marriott. The event, in its 21st year, was the brainchild of Michelle Ripley, office manager at CPA firm Prangley Marks and co-founder/
director of FFCF. She doesn’t have a child with cystic fibrosis, but that hasn’t stopped her from embracing the CF community, or it from embracing her. The journey to FFCF began with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, a national organization that raises funds for cystic fibrosis research. Ripley was asked if she and Prangley Marks employees would walk in the organization’s annual Great Strides fundraiser. She organized a walk team that year and then began to get more involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Soon, Ripley suggested the Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes event, which would offer something glitzy and glamorous for the younger crowd who wanted a way to give back. The first event, held in 1997, raised $5,000. The second year, it raised $9,000; the third, $18,000. The group that planned
It’s a cellular disease that affects the lungs, digestive system, reproductive system and other systems, and it can affect you mentally. It’s a whole-body disease. — Liz Buist
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 73
cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN
My mission is to raise awareness. Cystic fibrosis is a silent disease that is a monster of a disease on the inside. Raising money is so important, but raising awareness is what’s most important to me. — Michelle Ripley
Above: Guests mingle around the auction tables at FFCF’s Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes event, held March 3 at the JW Marriott. Right: FFCF director Michelle Ripley speaks at the Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes event.
the event did so outside the foundation, gifting the proceeds back to the foundation, which then sent the money on to the national organization to fund CF research. Before long, Ripley began thinking about ways to keep the proceeds local to benefit families in West Michigan. FFCF became an official nonprofit in 2002, continuing each year to gift some of its fundraising proceeds to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and another local CF charity, Hunt for a Cure, which raises money for CF research at Michigan State University. In 2017, the 20th anniversary of Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes, FFCF raised $110,000. This year, the bid event raised $124,770. Much of that goes directly to families who need help in their battle with cystic
fibrosis, which has no cure. When Ripley started, life expectancy for a CF patient was 21 years; now, thanks to advancements in treatments and medications, life expectancy is into the early 40s. For the first time ever, the number of adults living with cystic fibrosis is higher than that of children. More than 30,000 people have CF in the United States (more than half are over 18), with about 70,000 worldwide, according to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Approximately 1,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, with most diagnosed by age 2. Ripley and her nearly 40 volunteers — there is no paid staff for the nonprofit — work through cystic fibrosis care centers affiliated with Spectrum Health to connect with fami-
Want to get involved? May is National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, with several events planned for those interested in donating or participating. Other Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis events: May 12 - Camouflage Ball. See huntforacure.com for information on this and other events. May 19 - Great Strides fundraising walk at Millennium Park. See fightcf.cff.org for details on the walk and other events. July 28 - Bump for Breath beach volleyball tournament at The Score. Sept. 15 - Cheers to Michigan: Big Hole & Brews at Arrowhead Golf Course. Visit friendsandfamiliesofcf.org for more information. 74 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
lies to provide help as needed. Sometimes FFCF helps pay utility bills; other times it pays for medications or supplements not covered by insurance; sometimes it’s a blender or scale. Bethany Doneth is a medical social worker at the Adult Cystic Fibrosis Care Center on Lake Drive, through which FFCF provides assistance. “I email FFCF with a list of the things we need, they get the items and bring them to us, and we give them away,” Doneth said. “We keep gas and gift cards on hand, baby bottle sterilizers that CF patients use to sterilize their nebulizer cups, and blenders. Whatever the patient needs, we help them.” FFCF helped one family fix its well; it has provided heating pads, gym memberships and calcium supplements. The care center has approximately 175 patients from all over West Michigan — from the Indiana border to the Mackinac Bridge — and the Upper
Peninsula. The only other care centers are on the east side of the state. “I ask people about their needs and say, ‘If there is a financial barrier, I can help with that,’” Doneth said. “I have a safety net that I can use to help provide for the CF population. Friends & Families is always there to help.” For children who are hospitalized — each hospitalization for a CF patient typically lasts at least two weeks — FFCF provides a care package tailored to each child’s needs. At the beginning of the stay, FFCF sends a wish list form to the family/patient that includes questions about favorite colors, crafts, toys, clothing, video games, movies, books, music and electronics. About a week into the child’s stay, an FFCF volunteer or the social worker appears with a care package typically worth between $500 and $700. They deliver 15 to 20 care packages a year. Jessica Bustraan, a medical social worker in the Pediatric Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine Clinic at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, links CF families with Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis and sees children’s delight in opening a care package full of new things to do. “The care package from FFCF totally makes the stay for the kids,” Bustraan said. “The one-week mark is tough because the kids want to go home. Having FFCF bring all those gifts is amazing, and the kids can make it through their stay.” For Ripley, it’s all about helping children and adults improve their quality of life as they face cystic fibrosis. “My mission is to raise awareness. Cystic fibrosis is a silent disease that is a monster of a disease on the inside,” Ripley said. “Raising money is so important, but raising awareness is what’s most important to me.” Buist and her family have been recipients of FFCF’s generosity. Her daughter Kennedy received a care package while hospitalized; they’ve received gift cards at Christmas and FFCF sponsored Buist to attend a CF conference. “Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis is love in action,” Buist said. “They never ask for anything in return, never second guess you and are always there to help. It’s a relief to know that if something happens, they will GR be there to support us.”
Sophia’s story Sophia Cerniglia was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at age 6, the only one of her siblings with the genetic disease. She kept it to herself until age 17, when she read a letter to her entire high school describing the disease and how it affected her life. Cerniglia has been living life on her own terms ever since. She recently got her own apartment, speaks about CF at events and started her own nonprofit foundation in 2016. The Breathing Becomes Effortless Foundation (bbefoundation.com) helps adult CFers, as she calls them, around the world. “My story has gotten more interesting,” said Cerniglia, 27. “Doctors weren’t kidding when they said the disease progresses as you get older.”
I can honestly say I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for FFCF. Before I ever received anything tangible, though, I received a family. — Sophia Cerniglia
She spends 2-3 hours every morning and night doing her treatments and exercises as part of her regimen, and does other treatments as needed. While shopping after the first of the year, Cerniglia walked into a store from the cold and had a coughing fit. A female shopper lit into her, saying Cerniglia had coughed on her and yelling at her for leaving home with such a cough. “I used to say things like, they should research cystic fibrosis to find out about it, but I just stopped,” she said. Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis has helped Cerniglia get started in college, buy a car, purchase things for her apartment and pay for a gym membership. “I can honestly say I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for FFCF,” she said. “Before I ever received anything tangible, though, I received a family.”
MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 75
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WHERE WILL MICHIGAN’S ROADS LEAD YOU THIS SUMMER? Are you headed to the lakeshore to dig your feet in the sand? Or, will you explore the culture of our Capital City? Are you planning to paddle one of the 11,000 inland lakes or 36,000 miles of rivers, or settle in at a winery tasting room for a sip of something refreshing? No matter where you go or what you want to do, Michigan leads the Midwest in summer fun…hands down! BY D I A N NA S TA M P F L E R
Mackinaw City The Mackinaw City area (mackinawcity. com) for centuries has been welcoming visitors drawn to the natural freshwaters of the Straits of Mackinac, the rich woodlands and natural resources, the ongoing history and genuine Northern Michigan hospitality. Start your summer season at the longest-running, free Memorial Day historical program in the United States. The Memorial Pageant Weekend features more than 400 costumed reenactors bringing to life the 1783 battle between the French, British and Native Americans which helped shape the history not only of this region but of the entire state of Michigan, the Midwest and America. Performances are held throughout the weekend,
May 26-28, at Colonial Michilimackinac. The state’s most iconic structure, the five-mile Mackinac Bridge, is also one of its most photographed according to Instagram. Learn more about this modern marvel, built in 1957, at the Mackinaw Bridge Museum located above Mama Mia’s Pizza. Then, stop over and tour the historic Icebreaker Mackinaw docked near Conkling Park. The Straits area is also home to more than a dozen historic lighthouses — including several open for tours like Old Mackinac Point and McGulpin Point. Shepler’s Ferry Service (sheplersferry.com) offers a variety of excursions which take visitors past the off-shore lights in northern Lake Michigan, Lake Huron
and up the St. Mary’s River. Celebrate National Trails Day (Saturday, June 2) by exploring the miles of hiking, biking and other non-motorized trails in this region. Wilderness State Park offers 12 miles of designated foot trails, although parts of the shoreline are closed in the spring and early summer when the endangered Piping Plover is nesting. Historic Mill Creek features 1.5 miles of trails, including a one-of-a-kind loop that is totally handicap accessible. Hiking routes can also be found at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park and along a 42-mile section of the North Country Trail, which stretches between Mackinaw City and Petoskey. MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 77
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Traverse City Area The Traverse City area (traversecity. com) boasts 105 miles of freshwater coastline along the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, creating a unique microclimate that aids in the growth of a variety of agricultural crops — including grapes. More than 30 wineries are found in an area defined as the Traverse Wine Coast (traversewine coast.com), comprising two of Michigan’s five federally-recognized viticultural regions. Late spring and early summer brings the new wine releases in the tasting rooms and new buds on the vines, both cause for celebration. TC Uncorked (traversecityuncorked.com) is a month-long party full of tasting tours, winemaker dinners, lodging packages and more to coincide with Michigan Wine Month. Souvenir wine bags include two commemorative wine glasses, coupons to downtown shops and eateries and more. Special events also planned for May include: Spring Sip & Savor, May 5-6 on the Lee-
lanau Peninsula. The perfect time to welcome spring with a group of friends while noshing on delicious small bites paired with the vintner’s choice of wine. This Kentucky Derby-inspired event makes for fantastic photo ops as you dress up with your most fashionable “hattitude” and the chance to win prizes in the Sip ‘O De Mayo hat contest. For details, visit lpwines.com. Morels in May, May 12 at Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay. Learn how to find the elusive morel mushrooms on a guided “hunt” throughout the trails surrounding the winery. Then, head back to the Inn for a cocktail reception and intimate morel-themed dinner. Space is limited and reservations are required (blackstarfarms.com). Blossom Day, May 19 with Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula. This annual event pays homage to the cherry blossoms and the new wine releases. Barrel and reserve wines are also showcased, along with mouth-watering bites and wine pairings. For tickets, visit wineriesof oldmission.com.
Ludington Area Situated midway along the Lake Michigan shoreline, the harbor town of Ludington (pureludington.com) is rich with maritime heritage, natural resources and cultural charm. And, with 28 miles of sugar sand beaches, it’s also a premier location for viewing stunning sunsets. The 5,300-acre Ludington State Park is home to Big Sable Point Lighthouse — one of more than 120 historic beacons in the Great Lakes State. Tour this 112-foottall, circa 1867 light and climb 120 steps to the top of the tower for unparalleled 360-degree views, open seven days a week, May 8 through November 4. Visitors to the park can also settle in at one of the 347 campsites or explore more than 18 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as taking part in swimming, hunting, boating and wildlife viewing. The Waterfront Sculpture Park features a growing collection of original bronze sculptures focused on lumbering, farming, fishing and other areas of the city’s history. Downtown Ludington boasts boutique 78 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
shops, galleries and a children’s museum. Stroll the small-town streets then grab a bite to eat at one of the unique eateries, craft breweries, taprooms or ice cream parlors. Check out acoustic music during Live in the Plaza on Thursday nights from June through September or Movies in the Park at dusk at Rotary Park, on Thursdays in August. Fridays are also hot in Ludington with the afternoon Farmer’s Market, Friday Night Live and First Friday Art Walks.
If you’re in the area on Saturday, June 9 stop in for the “Love Ludington Weekend” with activities including the Lakestride Half Marathon 10k and 5k, Pirates of the Caribbean Shoreline Cruise aboard the historic SS Badger — Lake Michigan Carferry and an attempt to once again break a Guinness World Record for the most sand angels at one time (last year, Ludington set a record of 1,387 shattering the previous record of 352 set in England in 2015).
MOMENTS OF PEACE & HARMONY. The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a fourseasons attraction that is fun for all ages. Discover waterfalls, bridges, and sculptures as you tour the eight-acre garden and take in the beauty of the arched bridge and Japanese teahouse. Climb the viewing ďŹ ll for an unparalleled view over the water. Find your moments of enjoyment at Meijer Gardens.
MEIJERGARDENS.ORG
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1-888-957-1580
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Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
Lansing Area WHAT MAKES A VISIT TO Michigan’s capital so special? For starters, downtown Lansing (lansing.org) is so walkable with five great attractions within a five-block radius. Take in a Lansing Lugnuts baseball game, discover classic and antique cars at the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum and uncover family fun at Impression 5 Science Center. Fall under the spell of the historic State Capitol and stroll through four floors of history at the Michigan History Center. Experience diverse dining, unique shopping opportunities, an eclectic collection of artisan beer, wine and spirits and world-class museums throughout the region and you’ve made some memories to last a lifetime. With over 60 festivals celebrating everything from craft beer and live music to arts, theater and film, you’ll find the perfect weekend to visit. Greater Lansing is just a short road trip away. Consider the heart of Michigan for your next weekend getaway.
The Boulevard Inn & Bistro Overlooking a tree-lined bluff park with a view of Lake Michigan, The Boulevard Inn & Bistro (theboulevardinn.com) is the area’s only all-suite, full-service hotel and restaurant. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you’ll enjoy the Inn’s closeness to a vibrant downtown, championship golf courses and lake resort recreation. Each spacious suite caters to your comfort and offers in-room BeyondTVTM which allows you to sign into your favorite apps, play games, watch TV and more. Make your stay more enjoyable by choosing from special packages filled with romantic memories, sweet confections or nearby sightseeing. Bistro on the Boulevard is a culinary delight from sunrise to nightfall, where chefs wed traditional French-style cooking with adventurous flavors to please every palate. The Wine Spectator has deemed the Bistro’s wine list as one of the best in the world. The only thing that will eclipse their handcrafted dishes are the stunning sunsets on the lake’s horizon. 80 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Since 1995, Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park (meijergardens.org) has been one of the top cultural destinations in the Midwest, centering around horticulture and sculpture. Each year, more than 750,000 visitors stroll the grounds and interior exhibit spaces of this 158-acre campus to view eye-popping art from around the world. This summer’s featured display, Masayuki Koorida: Beyond Existence, runs May 25 through August 19. Koorida’s partiallycarved and polished boulder, Existence, is a permanent installation in The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, which opened in 2015. Designed exclusively for the Gardens, this expanded exhibit will feature highly-geometric pieces in a variety of materials, along with exquisite, large-scale drawings. This will be among Koorida’s first exhibitions in the United States.
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Petoskey Area It’s going to be an exciting summer in the Petoskey area (petoskeyarea.com) with the long-anticipated July opening of the Great Lakes Center for the Arts in Bay Harbor. This state-ofthe-art venue will feature worldclass performances in a variety of genres, located along the shore of Little Traverse Bay. Savor the flavors of the region at one of the nearly dozen wineries that make up the Tip of the Mitt, the newest of five federallyrecognized viticultural regions in the state of Michigan. Here, award-winning wines are served in unique tasting room locations spread throughout the rural landscape. Those seeking outdoor adventure will enjoy the awardwinning Headlands International Dark Sky Park—the ideal
backdrop for viewing the stars, Northern Lights and other celestial happenings. This 600-acre forested site between Harbor Springs and Mackinaw City also offers marked nature trails for hikers and bicyclists. Several other bike trails can be found nearby including the Little Traverse Wheelway and the Boyne City-Charlevoix Trail — a multipurpose six-plus-mile route that travels along scenic countrysides, farmlands and pastures. A 46-mile section of the 7-state North Country Trail also passes through the area, from Kipp Road in Petoskey through Harbor Springs and north to Mackinaw City. The 38-mile Inland Waterway is Michigan’s longest chain of rivers and lakes, beginning at Crooked Lake and travel-
ing through Crooked River, Burt Lake, Indian River, Mullett Lake, Cheboygan River and out to Lake Huron on Michigan’s east coast. Of course, one cannot visit the Petoskey area without exploring the history of Pulitzer and Nobel Prize winning author Ernest Hemingway, who spent his childhood summers vacationing
with his family at nearby Walloon Lake. A self-guided walking tour takes visitors past downtown locales where Ernest frequented, while a new statue in Pennsylvania Park provides a great photo op for daytrippers and those visiting for one of the many festivals, conferences and celebrations of his life held each year.
UPSCALE DOWNTIME Enjoy French-inspired, locally sourced cuisine in our Bistro. Then stay for a restful night in our all-suite hotel overlooking Lake Michigan.
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521 Lake Boulevard St. Joseph, MI 49085 (269) 983-6600 theboulevardinn.com
[the mighty mac]
Five Miles of Awesome
Best When Viewed From Fireworks Every Friday Night Memorial Day Weekend - Labor Day Weekend
Mackinaw City Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau 800-666-0160 â&#x20AC;˘ mackinawcity.com
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
Free (except for parking). 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Grand Haven State Park (beach), 1001 S. Harbor Drive. mackite.com.
may events
A FEW GREAT THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH!
SPECIAL EVENTS May 5 FULTON STREET FARMERS MARKET: Opening day of summer season with vendors selling locally grown fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, plants, homemade arts and crafts. Hours: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Tue., Wed., Fri. and Sat. 1147 E. Fulton St. fultonstreetmarket.org. May 19-20 GREAT LAKES KITE FESTIVAL: Thirtieth annual festival with stunt kite fliers, giant kites, vendors and family activities.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar! 84 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
MAY 4 - STARS ON ICE: Performances by
MAY 5-13 - TULIP TIME FESTIVAL: Hol-
award-winning figure skaters, including Nathan Chen, Ashley Wagner, Maia and Alex Shibutani, Karen Chen, Jason Brown, Meryl Davis and Charlie White. vanandelarena. com. See Stage & Film
land’s 89th annual celebration with thousands of tulips, fireworks, parades, Klompen dancers, outdoor concerts, music, arts and crafts, children’s events. tuliptime.com. See Special Events
SPORTS May 5, 13 & 20 GRAND RAPIDS FOOTBALL CLUB, WOMEN’S TEAM: United Women’s Soccer League. Home games: May 5 vs. Midwest United U19. May 13 vs. Lansing United. May 20 vs. Detroit Sun. Grandville High School, 4700 Canal Ave. SW. $8 adults, $5 kids 4-14. grandrapidsfc.com.
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP LEFT); GRAND RAPIDS FOOTBALL CLUB (RIGHT); EMILY GILSON (BOTTOM LEFT); THINKSTOCK (B0TTOM RIGHT)
May 28 GRAND HAVEN MEMORIAL DAY PARADE: U.S. Coast Guard color guard leads parade down Washington Avenue from Sixth Street to Harbor Drive and into Waterfront Stadium for ceremony and music by Grand Haven High School Band. 9:30 a.m. visitgrandhaven.com.
MAY 11-13 - “STAR WARS AND MORE: THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS”: Grand Rapids Symphony performs music from “Jurassic Park,” “Jaws,” “Indiana Jones” and “Star Wars.” grsymphony.org. See Music
To list your event send calendar information to Grand Rapids Magazine, c/o Calendar Editor, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, 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 10th of the month.
SPECIAL EVENTS May 2 - Collections & Cocktails: Grand Rapids Public Museum fundraiser with tour of its transportation collection, including the Herpolsheimer train, automobiles and planes; also, cocktails and dinner. 6-10 p.m. 272 Pearl St. NW. $100. grpm.org.
May 5 - Fulton Street Farmers Market: Opening day of summer season with vendors selling locally grown fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, plants, homemade arts and crafts. Hours: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Tue., Wed., Fri. and Sat. 1147 E. Fulton St. fultonstreetmarket.org.
May 2-5 - Family History Conference: National Genealogical Society’s annual conference with experts, networking and workshops to explore family genealogy. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $285 four days, $125 single day. ngsgenealogy.org.
May 5 - Hats and Horses: Pioneer Resources fundraiser with Kentucky Derby-themed party and music by Westside Soul Surfers. 5 p.m. The Lake House, 730 Terrace Point Drive, Muskegon. $55. pioneerresources.org/event/ hats-and-horses.
May 3 - Eclipse Awards: Seventh annual awards show for West Michigan’s film, video and online content. 7 p.m. McKay Tower Ballroom, 146 Monroe Center NW. the eclipseaward.com.
May 5 - Horsin’ Around at the Derby: Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding fundraiser with live viewing of the Kentucky derby, plus auctions, food. 4-9 p.m. 3777 Rector Ave., Rockford. $100. equestderby.com.
May 3-Sept. 13 - 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.
May 5 - Party for the Planet: Celebrate Earth Day at John Ball Zoo and learn about saving the world’s resources and protecting wildlife; includes educational activities and face painting. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1300 W. Fulton St. $12.50 adults, $10 seniors and kids 2-13. jbzoo.org.
May 4 - First Friday Gallery Hop: Participating galleries, shops and eateries stay open 6-9 p.m., presented by Avenue for the Arts. South Division between Fulton and Cherry streets. avenueforthearts.com/first-fridaygallery-hops. May 4-5 - LAUP Fiesta!: Latin Americans United for Progress celebration includes entertainment, carnival, car show, exhibitors and food. The Shops at Westshore, 12331 James St., Holland. laupholland.org. May 5 - Art on Center: Galleries along Center Street in downtown Douglas feature artist receptions and live music. 6-8 p.m. Free. sauga tuck.com/event/art-on-center. May 5 - Chocolate Stroll: Sixth annual downtown Rockford event with merchants offering sweet treats. Noon-6 p.m. rockford michamber.com. MAY 12 - “MOANA”: Balletmore presents the story of a village princess from Motunui who is chosen to journey across the ocean and save her people from destruction. balletmore.com. See Stage & Film
MAY 25 JUNE 9
May 5 - Salute! A Night in Italy: GR Art Museum hosts annual black-tie fundraiser with cocktails, dinner and entertainment. 6 p.m. 101 Monroe Center NW. $250. artmuse umgr.org/gala. May 5 - Under the Sea: West Michigan Symphony’s annual fundraiser includes dinner and silent auction. 6 p.m. Muskegon Country Club, 2801 Lakeshore Drive. $160. westmichigansymphony.org. May 5 - Women’s Expo & Craft Show: Byron Center’s sixth annual show has more than 70 vendors, plus concessions, raffles and prizes. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 2120 76th St. SW. Free. byronrec. org. May 5-13 - Tulip Time Festival: Holland’s
MAY 15 - OFF THE WALL: UICA spring fundraiser
MAY 19 - PINTS FOR PITS: Pet Tales Rescue fund-
includes contemporary performances by musicians, actors, dancers and poets; original artwork; appetizers and cash bar. uica.org/events/offthewall. See Special Events
raiser and community awareness event with games, music, door prizes, raffle, food, craft beer; dogs welcome. Noon4 p.m. bit.ly/pintsforpits. See Special Events
To purchase tickets or for complete event information
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MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 85
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
Comedy & nightclub venues COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
1/ POP SCHOLARS: Four-person comedy team performs improv show at 8 p.m. May 4. Tickets are $12. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE, 549-4788 ext. 130, popscholars.com. 2/ TIP TOP DELUXE BAR & GRILL: Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys perform a western swing/rockabilly concert at 7 p.m. May 14. 21+ only. Tickets are $15-$20 at ticketweb.com. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook.
20 Monroe Live: 2,500-seat venue hosts live music, entertainment and special events. 11 Ottawa Ave. NW, (844) 678-5483, 20monroelive.com. Back Forty Saloon: Line dancing and live country bands Fri. and Sat., DJs Thu. 48 W. Fulton St., 742-4040, thebackfortysaloon.com. Billy’s Lounge: Eastown bar and music venue hosts live music with emphasis on blues. 1437 Wealthy St. SE, 459-5757, billyslounge.com. The B.O.B.: The Big Old Building houses multiple entertainment options: live music Fri. and Sat. at Bobarino’s; DJs and dance floor at Eve on Fri. and Sat.; live music at House of Music and Entertainment (H.O.M.E.); stand-up comedy at Dr. Grins. 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob. com. Dr. Grins Comedy Club: Nation-
1/ Comedy team Pop Scholars
ally acclaimed comedians perform Thu.-Sat. May 3-5, Ms. Pat. May 10-12, Steve Iott. May 17-19, Big Jay Oakerson. May 24-26, Brian Aldridge. The B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 3562000, thebob.com/drgrinscomedy.
2/ Big Sandy
One Trick Pony: Grill and taproom hosts live music 8-11 p.m. Thu. and Sat. Reservations accepted. 136 E. Fulton St., 235-7669, onetrick.biz.
Grand Rapids Brewing Co.: Restaurant/taproom features live music Fri.-Sun. 1 Ionia Ave. SW, 458-7000, grbrewingcompany.com.
The Orbit Room: Regional and national music acts, occasional standup comedy. Open floor, seated balcony. 2525 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 942-1328, orbitroom.com.
The Intersection: Four-bar concert venue hosts nationally known bands. 133 Grandville Ave. SW, 4518232, sectionlive.com. J. Gardellas Tavern: Dance club Fri. and Sat. nights on third floor with DJs. 11 Ionia Ave. SW, 459-8824, jgardellastavern.com. Mixology: Lobby lounge overlooking downtown GR and Grand River has live music Fri. and Sat. nights and live jazz brunch on Sun. JW Marriott,
Mulligan’s Pub: Bar and music venue in Eastown. 1518 Wealthy St. SE, 451-0775, facebook.com/mulliga nspubgr.
The Pyramid Scheme: Heartside pub and live music venue. 68 Commerce Ave. SW, pyramidschemebar. com. 235 Louis St. NW, 242-1500, ilovethe jw.com/dining/mixology. Mojo’s: DJs and dance floor on second level Wed., Fri. and Sat., with dueling pianos show on main floor Wed.-Sat. nights. 180 Monroe Ave. NW, 776-9000, mojospianobar.com.
3/ Rock band Perpetual Groove
River City Improv: Comedy improv team performs at 7:33 p.m. May 12. $12 adults, $5 students and kids. Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd. SE, rivercityimprov.com. River Rock at The Grand River Hotel: Live music Fri. and Sat. and jazz brunch Sun. 270 Ann St. NW, 363-9001, thegrandriverhotel.com. Rocky’s Bar & Grill: Dancing every Fri., featuring DJs and live acts. 633 Ottawa Ave. NW, 356-2346, face book.com/rockysbarandgrill. Rumors Nightclub: Gay bar and dance club. 69 S. Division Ave., 4548720, rumorsnightclub.net. Stella’s Lounge: Drink features and live DJs every Fri. and Sat. 53 Commerce Ave. SW, 742-4444, stellas gr.com.
86 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY KELLY POWERS (TOP); LACE PHOTOGRAPHY (CENTER); PERPETUAL GROOVE (BOTTOM)
3/ FOUNDERS BREWING CO.: Large taproom features live music Thu. and Sat., plus Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra on the first Sunday of each month. On May 9, rock band Perpetual Groove performs at 8:30 p.m. General admission tickets are $5. 21+ only. 235 Grandville Ave. SW, 776-2182, foundersbrewing.com.
89th annual heritage celebration with thousands of tulips, fireworks, parades, Klompen dancers, outdoor concerts, music and variety shows, arts and crafts fair, children’s events. Also see Sports and Music. tuliptime.com.
May 7 - Healing Hearts Breakfast: Fundraiser for Ele’s Place, a grieving center for children and teens. 7:30-9 a.m. Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. elesplace.org. May 8 - Feast for Kids: Kids’ Food Basket fundraiser where chefs and students from American Culinary Federation Greater Grand Rapids Chefs Association prepare fourcourse meal. Also silent auction. 5-9 p.m. Noto’s Old World Italian Dining, 6600 28th St. SE. kidsfoodbasket.org/events/feast-forkids. May 9 - Great Gardens Party: Meijer Gardens’ annual fundraiser includes raffle, wine garden, live and silent auctions. 6-9 p.m. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. $100. meijergardens. org. May 10 - Spellebration: Literacy Center of West Michigan celebration includes presentation of Champion of Literacy Award. 5:30-9 p.m. Masonic Center Ballroom, 233 E. Fulton St. $110. literacycenterwm.org/spelle bration. May 11 - Wish Ball West Michigan: Makea-Wish signature black-tie fundraiser. 6 p.m. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $150. michigan.wish.org. May 12-13 - Artz and Gardenz: Second annual tour of six studios and Lavender Farm. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saugatuck/Douglas, Holland and Hamilton. artzandgardenz.com. May 12, 26 - Native Michigan Plant Sales: Kent Conservation District’s annual wildflower sale for gardeners and landscapers. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 3260 Eagle Park Drive NE. kent conservation.org. May 13 - Vintage Street Market: Opening day of 60-vendor monthly market at Downtown Market, featuring furniture, clothes, accessories, kitchen goods, home décor and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. vintagestreet marketgr.com. May 15 - Off the Wall: UICA spring fundraiser includes contemporary performances by musicians, actors, dancers and poets; original artwork; appetizers and cash bar. 6-9 p.m. $50, $35 members. 2 Fulton St. West. uica. org/events/offthewall. May 16 - Red Shoe Brew: Second annual outdoor beer festival with tastings from local breweries, live music, yard games and food; benefits Ronald McDonald House of Western
Michigan. 21 and older. 5-8 p.m. 1323 Cedar St. NE. $35, $75 VIP. rmhwesternmichigan. org/attend-an-event/red-shoe-brew.
May 16, 19 - Holland Farmers Market/Chef Series: Opening day of 75-vendor farmers market is May 16. Hours: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Wed. and Sat. Chef Series, demonstrating how to make market-fresh meals, is 10 a.m. every Sat. 150 W. Eighth St. hollandfarmersmarket. com. May 17 - Mayfest: Charity benefit for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services with guest speaker, auction and cash bar. 6-9 p.m. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 E. Fulton St. $40$50. deafhhs.org. May 17 - Reds, Whites & Brews: Indian Trails Camp fundraiser with music, wine and microbrew tasting, hors d’oeuvres, live auction. 6-10 p.m. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave. SW. $50. bit.ly/r-w-brews. May 18 - Hop’n Wild to Help a Child: Annual hopping relay benefits Kiwanis; includes food, raffles, music, activities. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Along Chicago Drive, Grandville. $100/fourperson team. cityofgrandville.com.
Drive, Hudsonville. $15 adults, $5 under 21. bit.ly/pintsforpits.
May 19-20 - Great Lakes Kite Festival: Thirtieth annual festival with stunt kite fliers, giant kites, vendors and family activities. Free (except for parking). 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Grand Haven State Park (beach), 1001 S. Harbor Drive. mackite.com. May 19-20 - Heritage Hill Home Tour: Annual tour of eight private homes and two historic buildings in Grand Rapids’ historic district. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., noon-6 p.m. Sun. $18-$25. heritagehillweb.org. May 20 - Roll’n Out Food Truck Fest: Grand Rapids Food Truck Association hosts about 30 food trucks. Noon-8 p.m. Heartside Park, 301 Ionia Ave. SW. facebook.com/grfood trucks. May 23-28 - Fruitport Old-Fashioned Days: Carnival, fireworks, 5K run, community marketplace, entertainment, parade and Ox Roast. visitmuskegon.org. May 24 - A Grand Night for Singing: Holland Chorale fundraiser. 6 p.m. Baker Lofts, 217 E. 24th St., Holland. hollandchorale.org.
May 18 - A Night with the Opera: Opera Grand Rapids 50th anniversary celebration with dinner and entertainment by Forte. 6 p.m. Van Andel Institute, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE. $250. operagr.org/night-with-the-opera.
May 25-26 - Grand Haven Ribfest: Ribs, live entertainment, craft beers. Grand Haven VFW, 20 N. First St., Grand Haven. Free admission; ribs available for purchase. facebook.com/ grandhavenvfw.
May 18 - The Vibe: Third annual Kentwood Parks and Rec gala includes cocktails, dinner, entertainment, dancing, silent/live auctions. 6-10 p.m. Stonewater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Caledonia. $100. kentwoodvibe.com.
May 25-June 9 - Spring Parade of Homes: Home Builders Association of Greater Grand Rapids presents its showcase of home construction, design and interiors. 1-9 p.m. Fri.Sat. and May 28, 5-9 p.m. Wed. mygrhome. com.
May 18-19 - Farmgirl Flea Market: More than 150 vendors offer handmade, vintage, retro, antique and farm finds. 4-8 p.m. Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. Hudsonville Fairgrounds, 5235 Park Ave. $15 two-day pass, $5 Sat., kids 12 and under free. paintedfarmgirl.com/ farmgirl-flea.
May 26 - Zeeland Spring Peddlers’ Market: Vintage furniture, flowers, gifts, apparel, accessories, homemade treats, live music. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Church Street between Main and Central avenues, downtown Zeeland. feelthe zeel.com.
May 18-19 - Tight Lines for Troops: Charity fishing tournament for Michigan veterans helps disabled vets. Lake Michigan, Manistee. tightlinesfortroops.com. May 19 - Barley, BBQ & Beats: Hospice of Michigan presents third annual celebration of whiskey, BBQ and live entertainment. 21 and older. 5-9 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $45. hom.org. May 19 - Pints for Pits: Pet Tales Rescue fundraiser and community awareness event with games, music, door prizes, raffle, food, craft beer; dogs welcome. Noon-4 p.m. Grand Rapids Harley Davidson, 2977 Corporate
May 27 - 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. May 28 - Grand Haven Memorial Day Parade: U.S. Coast Guard color guard leads parade down Washington Avenue from Sixth Street to Harbor Drive and into Waterfront Stadium for ceremony and music by Grand Haven High School Band. 9:30 a.m. visit grandhaven.com. May 28 - Holland Memorial Day Parade: Travels from Eighth Street and River Avenue to Columbia Avenue, south to 16th Street and MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 87
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
east to Pilgrim Home Cemetery for ceremony. 9:30 a.m. holland.org/events/memorial-dayparade.
May 5 - Tulip Time Run: 5K, 10K, 15K, virtual run and Kids 1K Fun Run. 8 a.m. Kollen Park, 10th Street and VanRaalte Avenue, Holland. $15-$60. tuliptime.com/events/run.
May 28 - Rockford Memorial Day Parade: Parade thru downtown Rockford includes floats, music and more. 9 a.m. Begins at Community Cabin, 220 N. Monroe St. rockford michamber.com.
May 6 - Access Walk for Good Food: Access of West Michigan annual fundraiser. 1:30 p.m. Park Church, 10 East Park Place NE. accessof westmichigan.org.
May 28 - Saugatuck and Douglas Memorial Day Parades: 9 a.m. downtown Saugatuck; 10 a.m. downtown Douglas. saugatuck.com.
May 6 - Walk to Cure Arthritis: 5K and onemile courses. 1 p.m. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW., Walker. arthritiswalk.org.
May 28 - Walker Memorial Day Parade: Noon. Lake Michigan Drive NW between Lincoln Lawns and St. Clair. walker.city.
May 12 - Fifth Third River Bank Run: 5K/ 10K/25K road race in downtown GR; also 25K handcycle and wheelchair racing divisions, 5K walk. 7 a.m. Corner of Monroe Avenue and Lyon Street. 53riverbankrun.com.
May 28 - Zeeland Memorial Day Parade: 9 a.m. Begins at Main and Centennial streets, heading west to State Street, south to Central Street and east to Maple Street. cityofzeeland. com.
SPORTS May - Grand Rapids Football Club, Men’s Team: Minor-league soccer team is part of National Premier Soccer League. Home games: May 4 vs. Livonia City FC. May 19 vs. Muskegon Risers. May 27 vs. Milwaukee Torrent. Houseman Field, 901 Fountain St. NE. $10 adults, $5 kids 4-14. grandrapidsfc. com. May - Grand Rapids Football Club, Women’s Team: United Women’s Soccer League. Home games: May 5 vs. Midwest United U19. May 13 vs. Lansing United. May 20 vs. Detroit Sun. Grandville High School, 4700 Canal Ave. SW. $8 adults, $5 kids 4-14. grandrapidsfc.com. May - 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: May 7-9 vs. Clinton LumberKings. May 10-12 vs. Burlington Bees. May 18-20 vs. Lake County Captains. May 21-24 vs. Fort Wayne TinCaps. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. $8-$16. whitecapsbaseball.com. May 5 - ASK Walk and Resource Fair: Autism Support of Kent County hosts second annual walk, kids activities, food and resource fair. Noon-3 p.m. John Ball Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton St. $25. autismsupportofkentcoun ty.org. May 5 - Nana’s Run: 5K walk/run supports ALS Association Michigan Chapter and ALS Clinic at Mercy Health. 10:05 a.m. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. $30-$35. nanasrun.com. 88 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
May 18-19 - Relay for Life: 12- and 24-hour endurance walking fundraiser for American Cancer Society research and programs. Noon. North Rockford Middle School, 397 E. Division St. NE. relayforlife.org. May 19 - ForeShore Adventure Race: Muskegon Rescue Mission’s fourth annual 5K race with 20 obstacles, plus kids zone with activities. 8:30 a.m. Pere Marquette Beach, 3510 Channel Drive, Muskegon. $40. foreshore.org. May 19 - Kent County Girls on the Run 5K: Run supports girls in grades 3-5. 8:45 a.m. Calder Plaza, 250 Monroe Ave. NW. kcgotr. org. May 19 - Walk MS: 5K fundraising walk benefits National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Michigan Chapter. 10 a.m. Aquinas College Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center, 1580 E. Fulton St. Free. nationalmssociety.org. May 20 - Karner Blue Butterfly 5K: Michigan Nature Association 5K run/walk and kids 1-mile fun run. 1:30 p.m. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker. $25. michigan nature.org. May 26 - Kick Off to Summer Run: Tri-Cities Family YMCA holds 5K run/walk, 1-mile family fun run/walk, and Tot Trot obstacle course for kids 3-6. 8:30 a.m. 1 Y Drive, Grand Haven. $30-$35 5K, $13-$15 1-mile, free Tot Trot. tcfymca.org/events-announcements/kickoff-to-summer-run. May 28 - Wild West 50K: Old Farts Running Club race and three-person relay. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Fallasburg Park, 1124 Fallasburg Road, Lowell. $50. oldfartsrunningclub.mysite.com.
STAGE & FILM Thru May 3 - Jewish Film Festival: Twentieth annual fest with Jewish-themed movies, plus reception, speakers, entertainment.
7:30 p.m. Celebration Cinema North, 2121 Celebration Drive NE. $6. jewishgrandrapids. org.
Thru May 5 - “The Orphan Train”: Master Arts Theatre presents the story of nine orphans on a train traveling to Midwestern towns in search of homes. 7:30 p.m. Thu.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. 75 77th St. SW. $17 adults, $15 seniors and students. masterarts.org. Thru May 5 - “Rumors”: LowellArts presents a spring dinner theater about a dinner party where one host has attempted to commit suicide and the other never shows up, while the guests deal with mistaken identities, coverups and deceptions. 6:30 p.m. dinner, 7:30 p.m. show. Larkin’s Other Place, 315 W. Main St. $16-$20 show, $13 dinner. lowellartsmi. org. May 3-6 - “Spamalot”: Muskegon Civic Theatre presents Monty Python’s tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they search for the Holy Grail. 7:30 p.m. Thu.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $24 adults, $22 seniors and students. muskegoncivictheatre. org. May 3-19 - “Into the Woods”: Circle Theatre combines storybook characters into a modern classic where wishes are granted but the results are disastrous. 7:30 p.m.; 5 p.m. May 13. Aquinas College PAC, 1703 Robinson Road SE. $26-$30. circletheatre.org. May 4 - Stars on Ice: Performances by award-winning figure skaters, including Nathan Chen, Ashley Wagner, Maia and Alex Shibutani, Karen Chen, Jason Brown, Meryl Davis and Charlie White. 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $27.50-$82.50. vanan delarena.com. May 4-5 - “The Marriage of Figaro”: Opera Grand Rapids presents a farcical tale with music by Mozart. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $25$89 adults, $5 students. operagr.org. May 4-12 - “The Happy Prince & Other Wilde Tales”: Grand Rapids Ballet weaves three of Oscar Wilde’s children’s stories into a family-friendly ballet. 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW. $49. grballet.com. May 5-19 - “Calendar Girls”: Holland Civic Theatre tells the story of a group of older women who pose nude for a fundraising calendar. Tulip Time performances: 7 p.m. Tues.-Sat. and 2 p.m. Sun. May 5-12 ($23). Also, 7:30 p.m. May 17-19 ($20 adults, $18 seniors, $10 students). 50 W. Ninth St., Holland. hollandcivictheatre.org.
May 12 - HIS All School Showcase: Presented by Hearts in Step Dance Ensemble. 1 and 4:30 p.m. DeVos Center for Arts and Worship, 2300 Plymouth SE. $11. heartsin stepdance.org.
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May 12 - “Moana”: Balletmore presents the story of a village princess from Motunui who is chosen to journey across the ocean and save her people from destruction. Noon. Northview Performing Arts Center, 4451 Hunsberger Ave. NE. $12, $10 seniors, kids under 3 free. balletmore.com. May 16 - Open Projector Night: UICA hosts short film screenings followed by Q&A with filmmakers. Audience can vote for favorite. 8 p.m. 2 W. Fulton St. $8, $4 members. uica.org. May 17-26 - “The Flick”: Actors’ Theatre presents the story of three underpaid movie ushers at a rundown movie palace in Massachusetts. 8 p.m. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $28 adults, $22 seniors and students. actorstheatregrandrapids.org.
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May 18 - Real to Reel: Saugatuck Center for the Arts presents the film “The Untold Tales of Armistead Maupin.” 7 p.m. 400 Culver St. $7, $5 members and students. sc4a.org. May 19 - Spring Showcase: Dance performances by Hearts in Motion students. Noon and 3:30 p.m. DeVos Center for Arts and Worship, 2300 Plymouth Ave. SE. Free. hearts inmotiondance.com. May 20 - Steve Martin and Martin Short: Comedians/actors present “An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life.” 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $95-$350. devosperformancehall.com. May 31-June 16 - “A Few Good Men”: Circle Theatre presents a story about the trial of two Marines accused of killing a fellow Marine at Guantanamo Bay. 7:30 p.m.; 5 p.m. June 10. Aquinas College PAC, 1703 Robinson Road SE. $26-$30. circletheatre.org.
MUSIC May 4 - Embellish Spring Concert: Handbell concert. 7:30 p.m. Basilica of St. Adalbert, 654 Davis Ave. NW. $12. embellishhandbells. com/wordpress. May 4 - Trixy Tang: Rock band. 8 p.m. Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland. $5-$10. parktheatreholland.org. May 4, 19 - The Block Concerts: May 4, Violist Arturo Ziraldo. May 19, Classical chamber musicians Vadim Gluzman and Angela Yoffe. 7:30 p.m. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $20 and up, $10 students. theblockwestmichigan.org.
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MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 89
out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
May 5 - Ringing Out with Fred Gramann: Embellish handbell performance. 2:30 p.m. St. James Hall, 733 Bridge St. NW. embellish handbells.com/wordpress. May 5 - Schubert Male Chorus: Spring concert. 7:30 p.m. East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center, 2211 Lake Drive SE. $18. schubert malechorus.org. May 5, 19, 20 - LowellArts House Concerts: 7 p.m. May 5, Lexi Reign/The Ryne Experience. 7 p.m. May 19, Seth Bernard. 2 p.m. May 20, Family Concert with The Porters. 223 W. Main St., Lowell. $12. lowellartsmi.org. May 6 - GRYS Concert and Classical Orchestra: GR Youth Symphony spring concert with Skip Gates Concert Competition winners. 3 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. grys.org.
May 15 - Halestorm and In This Moment: Hard rock/metal concert. 6:30 p.m. DeltaPlex, 2500 Turner Ave. NW. $37.50. deltaplex.com. May 17 - Acoustic Café Folk Series: With Rhiannon Giddens. 7:30 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $40-$45. scmc-online.org. May 18 - Masterpieces: West Michigan Symphony performs music by Brahms, Tchaikovsky and WMS composer-in-residence Austin Wintory. 7:30 p.m. Frauenthal Theater, 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $25-$57, $10 students. westmichigansym phony.org. May 18-19 - “Beethoven’s Ninth”: Grand Rapids Symphony concert. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18$90. grsymphony.org.
May 7, 14 - Circle Theatre Summer Concert Series: May 7, Bringing Sexy Back: Pop/Rock Male Icons. May 14, Silver Screen: Academy Award-Winning Songs. 7 p.m. 1607 Robinson Road SE. $18. circletheatre.org.
May 18-19 - Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys: Spring concert with guest director Dr. Richard Webster. 7 p.m. Cathedral of St. Andrew, 301 Sheldon Blvd. SE. Free-will offering. grcmb.com.
May 8 - Oh Wonder: Pop duo with guest Astronomy. 8 p.m. Hoogenboom, Calvin College, 3195 Knight Way SE. $25. calvin.edu.
May 19 - Embellish Allendale Concert: Embellish handbell ensemble teams up with local musicians. Ceglarek Fine Arts Center, 10760 68th Ave., Allendale. embellishhand bells.com/wordpress.
Recipe for a Great Book, Beginner Floral Design Workshop, Adulting 101, book clubs, computer/technology instruction. Kids: Mind Meets Music, Mindstorm Saturdays, Teen Council, Evening Explorers. grpl.org.
May - Kent District Libraries: Adults: Michigan Notable Book Tour with Henrick Meijer, DIY Painted Mugs, The Victorian Lady, Home and Garden Wellness, Essential Oils 101, A Matter of Balance, spring book sales, book discussions, computer/technology instruction. Kids: KDL Lab Experience, Pokémon Club, Teen Zone, Rhyme Time Music and Movement, author visits, story times. kdl.org. May - Summer Swing Dancing: 7-9:30 p.m. every Tue. in downtown Grand Rapids. First half-hour is instruction. May 1 and 15, Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center NW. May 8, 22 and 29, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. grandrapidsoriginalswingsociety. com. May 2 - Kent Conservation District Workshop: “How to Create a Quality Wildlife Habitat.” Registration required. 7 p.m. 3260 Eagle Park Drive NE. Free. kentconservation. org.
May 19 - GRWC Spring Concert: Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus. 8 p.m. East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center, 2211 Lake Drive SE. Free; donations accepted. grwc.org.
May 8 - Mental Health Lunch and Learn Series: Ronald McDonald House of Western Michigan hosts “Building Resiliency” by Dr. Sandy Dettman, Kent County Medical Society. Noon. 1323 Cedar St. NE. Free; lunch provided. bit.ly/challengingstigma.
May 10 - Joshua Davis: Tulip Time presents rock musician. 8 p.m. Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland. $25. tuliptime.com.
May 20 - FHACB Spring Concert: Forest Hills Adult Community Band. 2:30 p.m. Forest Hills Eastern High School, 2200 Pettis Ave. NE, Ada. Free. fhacb.org.
May 11 - The Beach Boys: Tulip Time presents rock musicians known for “Good Vibrations,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “Help Me, Rhonda” and “Surfin’ U.S.A.” 7 p.m. Central Wesleyan Auditorium, 446 W. 40th St., Holland. $65-$75. tuliptime.com.
May 9 - FLPC Cooking Class: “Chocolate Torte Burgundy.” 6:30-8:30 p.m. Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. $25. lifeprocesscenter.org.
May 20 - Grand Rapids Symphonic Band Concert: “From Russia with Love.” 3 p.m. Grandville High School Auditorium, 4700 Canal Ave. SW. $10 adults, $7 seniors, $5 students, $25 family. grsymphonicband.org.
May 9 - Local First Workshop: “Affording Retention: Building Healthier Teams.” 8:30-11 a.m. Str!ve, 161 Ottawa Ave. NW., Suite 173. $25, $20 members. localfirst.com.
May 11 - Brantley Gilbert: Country musician performs The Ones That Like Me tour; also Aaron Lewis and Josh Phillips. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $32.25-$60.25. vanandelarena.com.
May 30 - Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts: National acts perform in outdoor amphitheater. Tedeschi Trucks Band with Charlie Parr. 5:45 p.m. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. meijer gardens.org.
May 11-13 - “Star Wars and More: The Music of John Williams”: Grand Rapids Symphony performs music from “Jurassic Park,” “Jaws,” “Indiana Jones” and “Star Wars.” 8 p.m. Fri.Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $18-$90. grsymphony.org.
LECTURES & WORKSHOPS
May 8 - Tony Bennett: Grammy-winning musician known for “Steppin’ Out With My Baby” and “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $75-$150. devosperforma ncehall.com.
May 12 - Jake Kershaw: Tulip Time presents blues/rock singer. 8 p.m. Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland. $15. tulip time.com. 90 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
May - FLPC Art Workshops: May 16-19, “Painting Spring Landscapes in Oil or Pastel” by Aaron Schuerr. May 17-19, “Painting with a Bold Brush” by Matt Linz. Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. lifeprocesscenter.org. May - Grand Rapids Public Libraries: Adults: An Evening with Wade Rouse: A
May 11 - Conservation Café: Science is Beautiful: The Nature Conservancy hosts lecture with Restoration Ecologist Chris May. Noon. Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. Free. bit.ly/naturelecture. May 12 - Italian Cooking Class: Chef Jenna hosts monthly class. 2-3 p.m. Amore Trattoria Italiana, 5080 Alpine Ave. NW, Comstock Park. 2-3 p.m. Free. amoretrattoriaitaliana. com. May 15 - Ford Museum Program: Reading and book signing of “Ambition, Pragmatism, and Party: A Political Biography of Gerald R. Ford” by Scott Kaufman. 7 p.m. Gerald R. Ford Museum, 303 Pearl St. NW. fordlibrarymus eum.gov.
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$ May 15 - GVSU Workshop: “Strengthening Your Talent Pipeline Through Volunteer Management.” 9 a.m.-noon. Johnson Center for Philanthropy, 201 Front Ave. SW, Suite 200. $60. johnsoncenter.org. May 15 - Nourishing Ways of West Michigan: “Mouth-Breathing: Why It’s So Much More Than Just Unattractive!” by Dixie DeFouw. 7 p.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N. Division Ave. nourishingways.org.
THERE’S DINNER. AND THEN THERE’S DINING.
May 16-June 27 - AutoDesk Revit for Designers and Architects: Kendall College of Art and Design course on architecture software. 6-9 p.m. Wed. 17 Pearl St. NW. $249. kcad.edu/cs. May 16-June 27 - Expressionist Woodcuts: Kendall College of Art and Design course on woodcutting. 6-9 p.m. Wed. 17 Pearl St. NW. $349, includes supplies. kcad.edu/cs. May 17 - Dyslexia Seminar: Information from New Chapter Learning. 6:30 p.m. 4120 Chicago Drive, Grandville. Free; register at 534-1385. newchapterlearning.net. May 18 - Lunch N’ Learn: Masterpieces: West Michigan Symphony brown bag lunch, music and conversation with music director Scott Speck. Noon-1 p.m. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. Free. theblockwest michigan.org.
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May 15-June 26 - Personal Branding for Artists and Designers: Kendall College of Art and Design course on how to create and maintain a personal brand. 6-9 p.m. Tues. 17 Pearl St. NW. $249. kcad.edu/cs. May 16 - Beautiful Bugs: Ada Township Parks nature program for preschoolers and parents includes nature hunt and craft. 10 a.m.-noon. Ada Park Learning Center, 1180 Buttrick Ave. SE. $5. adatownshipmi.com.
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May 19 - Eastern Floral Design Class: “Perfectly Pastel.” 10 a.m. 2836 Broadmoor Ave. SE. $40. easternfloral.com/designclass/2018. May 19 - No Code Website Portfolio for Artists and Photographers: Kendall College of Art and Design one-day workshop for setting up an online portfolio. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 17 Pearl St. NW. $149. kcad.edu/cs. May 19 - Step-by-Step Landscape: Kendall College of Art and Design painting workshop. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 17 Fountain St. NW. $99, includes supplies. kcad.edu/cs. May 21 - Grand Rapids Audubon Club: Annual meeting with guest speaker Marie Perkins. Roselle Park, 1010 Grand River Drive NE, Ada. Free. graud.org.
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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO
Museums & attractions COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST
Adventure Park.
1/ TREETOP ADVENTURE PARK: Opening for the season May 4, the park is a self-guided high-wire forest adventure with ziplines, Tarzan swings, rope bridges and swinging logs. Visits include training on the park’s safety gear and how to navigate the manmade courses above ground. The park is open Fri.-Sun. until June 10 and then will be open daily for the summer months. Admission for three hours is $39 adults and $35 kids 13 and under. 2121 Celebration Drive NE, 226-3993, treetopadventuregrandrapids.com.
2/ NELIS’ DUTCH VILLAGE: Dutch history and culture abound at this theme park with rides, petting zoo, wooden shoe carving, Delftware-making demonstrations, costumed employees, shops and restaurants. Special events: May 5-13, Tulip Time features more than 25,000 tulips and longer admission hours. Open daily. $12 adults, $11 seniors, $10 kids 3-15. 12350 James St., Holland, 396-1475, dutchvillage.com. 3/ GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Special exhibitions: Opening May 19, “Anila Quayyum Agha: Intersections” is an immersive installation centered on a suspended cube. A lightbulb in the cube projects the patterns laser cut into the sides of the cube and casts them onto the room’s walls, ceiling and floor. The exhibition will be open through Aug. 26. Also, thru June 3, “From Wilderness to Resource: A Story in Pictures.” Thru June 10, “Tony Mendoza: Cats and Dogs.” May 19-Aug. 26, “Mirror Variations: The Art of Monir Shahroudy Farmanfarmaian.” Special events: May 19, Story Time Tour: Abstract Air Adventure. May 22, Lunch & Learn: Geometry in Art. See Salute! A Night in Italy in Special Events. Dropin Family Saturdays: Art activities, kid-friendly tours, 1-4 p.m. Closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors/students, $5 kids 6-17, kids 5 and under free; free admission Tue. and 5-9 p.m. Thu. 101 Monroe Center NW, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org.
Blandford Nature Center: Special events: May 5, Hike with a Naturalist. May 8, MWF West Michigan Mineral Study Group. May 12, Kombucha Workshop. May 19, Discovering Blandford’s Farm Animals and Meet the Blandford Animals. May 26, Blandford’s Wildlife. Permanent attractions: 143 acres of trails, heritage buildings, farm. Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center open Mon.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. $3. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 7356240, blandfordnaturecenter.org. Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park: Eighty-acre park with reptile house, primate facility, bird aviary, prairie dog exhibit, kangaroos, giraffes, zebras, antelope, wildebeest, bison, cattle, ostrich and emus. Plus, safari rides and opportunities to feed giraffes, deer, rabbits and budgies. Open daily. $14 ages 12 and up, $12 seniors, $10 kids 3-11, kids under 2 free. 8313 Pratt Lake Ave. SE, Alto, 868-6711, boulder ridgewap.com. Coopersville & Marne Railway: Restored 1920s-era railway with EnterTRAINment Excursions at 11 a.m. Wed. and 1:30 p.m. Sat. ($13.75 adults, $12.75 seniors, $11.75 kids 2-12). Special event: May 28, Veterans Memorial Troop Train at 11 a.m. ($11.75, vets free). 311 Danforth St., Coopersville, 997-7000, coopersvilleandmarne.org. Coopersville Farm Museum: Special events: May 1 and 15, Acoustic Jam Night. May 5, Craft and Vendor Show. May 26, Kids, Crafts & Critters. Permanent attractions: Tractors and other farming equipment; also Eclipse windmill. Open Tue., Thu., Sat. $4 adults, $2 kids 4-12, kids 3 and under free. 375 Main St., Coopersville, 997-8555, coopersville farmmuseum.org. DeGraaf Nature Center: Special events: May 4, Wading in a Frog Pond. May 5, Michigan’s Amphibians. May 12, Birding the Allegan State Game Area. May 19-26, Annual Wildflower, Tree and Shrub Sale. Permanent attractions: Eighteen-acre preserve with Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch. Knee-High Naturalist classes for kids 3-5. Center open Tue.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. Free. 600 Graafschap Road, Holland, 3551057, cityofholland.com/degraafnaturecenter. Downtown Market: Special events: See Vintage Street Market in Special Events. 435 Ionia Ave. SW, 805-5308, downtownmarketgr.com. Felt Mansion & Gardens: Summer home of millionaire inventor Dorr E. Felt features 1920s architecture. Self-guided tours 1-5 p.m. May 7-10 and May 27-30. $15 adults, $12 seniors and students, kids 12 and under free. 6597 138th St., Holland, 335-3050, feltmansion.org.
2/ Celebrate all things Dutch at Nelis’ Dutch Village. 92 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: Special events: May 12, Just for Moms. May 12-13, Michigan All State Bonsai Show. See Great Gardens Party in Special Events and Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts in Music. Special exhibitions: May 25-Aug. 19, “Masayuki Koorida: Beyond Existence.” Permanent attractions: Modern and contemporary sculpture collection, Japanese garden, tropical conservatory, children’s garden, nature trails and boardwalk, café, gift shop. Open daily. $14.50 adults, $11 seniors and students, $7 kids 5-13, $4 kids 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijer gardens.org.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY TREETOP ADVENTURE PARK (TOP); NELIS’ DUTCH VILLAGE (BOTTOM)
1/ Family fun at Treetop
3/ Art installation by Anila Quayyum Agha is at GRAM. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Jan. 6, “In Step with Betty Ford: A Celebration of Her Centennial.” Special events: May 2, Big Band Night with Northview High School Jazz Band. See Ford Museum Program in Lectures & Workshops. Permanent exhibitions: Highlights from Mr. Ford and Mrs. Ford’s lives, plus featured online exhibits. Also, DeVos Learning Center. Open daily. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $6 college students, $4 ages 6-18, kids 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St. NW, 254-0400, fordlibrarymuseum.gov. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: Permanent activities: Little GR, Bubbles!, Wee Discover, musical instruments and more. Toddler Time 10 a.m.-noon Tues. Family Night 5-8 p.m. Thu. ($1.75). Closed Mon. $8.50, $7.50 seniors, kids under 1 free. 11 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ANILA QUAYYUM AGHA
Grand Rapids Public Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru May 20, “Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids.” May 19-Sept. 2, “Zoo in You: Microbes.” Special events: May 5, Curiosity Lab. May 17, Beer Explorers: Beer, Bread & Fermentation. See Collections & Cocktails in Special Events. Science Tuesdays feature themed activities and interactive displays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Open daily. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 kids 3-17. 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm.org. Holland Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Sept. 1, “Atmosphere of Distinction.” Permanent exhibitions: Local history and Dutch galleries, featuring artwork from the Netherlands from the 1600s-1900s. Open Wed.-Sun. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, kids 5 and under free. 31 W. 10th St., 796-3329, hollandmuseum.org. Also, Cappon House: 228 W. Ninth St. Settlers House: 190 W. Ninth St. John Ball Zoo: Special events: May 18, Endangered Species Day. May 18, Kid’s Night Out: Frog Frenzy. May 23, World Turtle Day. May 30, World Otter Day. See Party for the Planet in Special Events. Open daily. $12.50 adults, $10 seniors and kids 2-12. 1300 W. Fulton St., 336-4300, jbzoo.org. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: Special exhibi-
tions: Thru May 6, “Young Artists of Kalamazoo County.” Thru May 13, “My Hero: Contemporary Art & Superhero Action.” Thru July 15, “Passion on Paper: Masterly Prints from the KIA Collection.” Thru Aug. 12, “Vibrant Bounty: Chinese Folk Art from the Shaanxi Region.” May 18-June 10, High School Area Show. May 26-Sept. 2, West Michigan Area Show. Closed Mon. $5 adults, $2 students with ID; members and kids 12 and under free. 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, kiarts.org. Meyer May House: Restored Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house includes original furnishings. Open for guided tours 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Tue. and Thu.; 1-4 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour before close). Free. 450 Madison Ave. SE, 246-4821, meyermay house.steelcase.com. Muskegon Museum of Art: Special exhibitions: Thru May 20, “Thunder Boy Jr.: Illustrations by Yuyi Morales.” Thru June 10, “The Poetry of Metal: David Barnhill and David Huang.” May 17Aug. 12, “Up Close and Personal: The Ultra-Realistic Sculpture of Marc Sijan,” “American Icon: The Art of the Motorcycle” and “Whiskey Ridge: The Summer of ’51.” May 24-Sept. 9, “The 150th Anniversary of Edward Curtis: 150 Masterpieces from ‘The North American Indian.’” Special events: May 12, Metal Super Saturday with David Huang. Thru July 6, 90th Michigan Regional Exhibition Call for Entries (exhibit dates: Aug. 30-Nov. 7). Closed Mon. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 college students, kids 16 and under free. 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 7202570, muskegonartmuseum.org. Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium: Shows, which use Digistar production and surround sound, include “Subatomic,” “Under Starlit Skies,” “Dynamic Earth,” “Star Lore” and “One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure.” $5/show, $4 with admission to the museum. Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm.org/planetarium. Veen Observatory: Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association hosts public viewing nights 9:30 p.m.-midnight May 5 and 19 (weather permitting). Call 897-7065 for updates. $3 adults, $2 kids 6-17, under 5 free. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. SE, Lowell, graaa.org. MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 93
out & about SOCIETY / FACES / PLACES
Regan Tubbs and Laura Silvis
Meghan Eames and Jacklyn Sikkema
Valery and Aaron Young
Krystle Long and Nicholas Koliboski Kori and Rodger Thompson
Poonam Kumar and Manej Mulki
CAPTURING THE ACTION AROUND TOWN:
snap shots
Martha Kuyten, Paul Kuiper, Louise Kreun, Dave and Jan Harris, Tom Wheeler and Sandi Gowin 94 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
Todd Chance and Andrea Shaner
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
ADULTS GATHERED AT the JW Marriott’s International Ballroom on March 9 for a pajama party to benefit LaughFest and Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. Dozens took the plunge in a swimming pool outside Van Andel Arena on Feb. 24 for the Grand Rapids Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Michigan. More than 1,000 guests gathered at The B.O.B. on Jan. 29 for Catholic Charities West Michigan’s annual fundraiser, Soup’s On for All. The event raises more than $100,000 annually for the food and pantry programs of God’s Kitchen.
Joel Bradshaw, Garry Boyd and Darlene Priest Sam Weima and Garret Kooi
Blair and Jon Butler
Philip Keibler and Kay Judson
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (BOTTOM); JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP)
Ken Bailey
Michelle McCormick and Donna Goryl
Deb Campbell and Tracy Breihof
Timeco and Cle Bolden MAY 2018 / GRMAG.COM 95
after thoughts
Q:a The Salvation Army’s Nancy Oliver plays a critical role in helping those in need in Kent County.
96 GRMAG.COM \ MAY 2018
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK
F
or Nancy Oliver, helping others in need is more than just a job or a hobby — it’s a way of life. Oliver, a Grand Rapids native and veteran in the human services field, became the executive director of social services for The Salvation Army of Kent County at the start of 2018. Oliver has more than two decades of experience working in social services, which includes child welfare, prisoner re-entry, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, and mental health, among others; and is passionate about social justice. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Michigan State University and master’s in administration and organizational development from Spring Arbor University. While Oliver has an impressive résumé stacked with such noteworthy achievements, her evident perseverance, dedication and humility truly define her. Oliver, who “never attended high school,” had to overcome numerous obstacles along the way, even living on MSU’s campus with all five of her children while she pursued her undergraduate degree. “The success of my children is my most notable award, reward, recognition and achievement,” she said. WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? My faith in God, my family and issues of inequity and injustice. FAVORITE WAY TO UNWIND? I love to go to the BEACH! LAST BOOK YOU READ? “Braving the Wilderness” by Brené Brown BEST WAY TO ENJOY SPRING IN GR? There are many museums, attractions and parks to enjoy. I think one of the best attractions is the Frederik Meijer Gardens. The butterflies and flowers are absolutely beautiful.
mountains Cozy of sand
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It’s where everything just comes together. Where you’ll find as many delicacies as adventures. And where you’re absolutely sure that you’re in a pre y great place.
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