December 2013 - GRM by Grand Rapids Magazine

CELEBRATING CITY LIFE

www.grmag.com

SPECIAL INSIDE:

THE HOLIDAY SEASON:

It’s a piece of cake

2013 DESIGN HOME

6 tempting local desserts How to save on holiday décor

A NEW SPIN ON KNITTING MORE THAN A ZOO: JOHN BALL PARK

DECEMBER 2013

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WELL HOUSE OFFERS HOPE FOR THE HOMELESS TWO PLATE: CYGNUS 27

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Contents DECEMBER 2013 / VOL. 50 / NO. 12

FEATURES 32 / What’s for dessert? Tips for holiday entertaining from those who’ve been there. BY ALEXANDRA FLUEGEL

38 / Knit crafts find a new audience A younger generation of knitters and crocheters is reaping the benefits of social interaction, creative expression and stress relief. BY DANA BLINDER

42 / Living the dream Founded in 1977, Well House offers refuge and hope for the homeless.

BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON

Pap &B $31

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HOLIDAY GIFTS RECEIVE $200 OFF

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contents DECEMBER 2013 / VOL. 50 / NO. 12

departments BACK & FORTH 8 / From the Editor

8 / Letters, social media and more

54 / Restaurant listings for West Michigan 60 / Marshmallogy 62 / Chef Profile: The chefs at Noto’s Old World Italian

10 / Contributors LIFE & STYLE 12 / Noteworthy items include “Wedded to the Land,” Himalayan salt, Micro Luggage, Sweet Repute beer, craft shows.

66 / Nosh & Sip: Dessert wines 70 / HeFedSheFed: Supper club

13 / Fragrance wizard 14 / Hunt & Gather 16 / Living Local: Dreaming of a green Christmas 18 / Reading Room: Notes From Neil ART & DESIGN 20 / Artist Profile: Kathleen Mooney

The Ugly Sweater Run will have runners and walkers participating in a 5K through downtown Grand Rapids in the tackiest sweaters they can find. NEAR & FAR 74 / John Ball Park neighborhood

22 / Art Talk: Stunning landscapes at GRAM

OUT & ABOUT 78 / December highlights

23 / Art gallery listings and highlights

79 / Calendar

80 / Nightclub & comedy venue listings and highlights 86 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights 88 / Snapshots 96 / After Thoughts: Q&A with Major Marc Johnson of The Salvation Army

31 24 / Statement bracelets 26 / At Home: Add pizzazz — chandeliers and ceiling lamps 30 / Frame Works: An Italianate rebel

ON THE COVER: Executive Chef Erin Jeffers of Olive’s Restaurant in East Grand Rapids created this Devil’s Food Cake, made with peppermint frosting and candy cane brittle as a December dessert special.

31 / Justagirl: Spending less on holiday décor FOOD & DRINK 52 / Dining Review: Blue Water Grill

Photography by Michael Buck

6 grmag.com \ DECEMBER 2013

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back & forth CONNECT with us

a new year’s wish

Join Managing Editor Marty Primeau at 9:45 a.m. Thursdays as she presents City Beat with Shelley Irwin on WGVU Radio FM 88.5 and 95.3.

AMIDST THE BUSTLE of the holiday season and very warm glow of the city, it’s nice to pause with (hot) cider and consider significant aspects of the year, a year that seemed to begin and end as quickly as a lightning strike. Considering that snow continued to cover the ground until the end of April, every day of summer was glorious with the kind of “lake effect” West Michiganders appreciate. April also gave a date to historic flooding. The impact continues to ripple and already includes planning for the Grand Rapids Whitewater Project and river restoration. The city found reward in the capture of the Beer City title for the second consecutive year and can savor the promise of another award in the future: the “gold coast of cider,” as one hard cider entrepreneur termed it. It’s also been a year for building the Bus Rapid Transit “Silverline” — 33 stations linking GR, Kentwood and Wyoming with highspeed transit buses scheduled to provide service by August 2014. The domino effect of the long-awaited project will include neighborhood impacts, new sites for businesses and several other economic spurs. Ferris State University this year heralded

the completion of its restoration of the historic Federal Building that offers Kendall College of Art & Design room to grow. Grand Valley State University completed its new Mary Idema Pew Library Learning and Information Commons on the Allendale campus, while its downtown campus was enhanced with the completion of the Siedman College of Business. The new Downtown Market opened to a lot of love in a former warehouse district that now is seeing building restorations and new commercial development. The new year promises a flurry of construction projects, especially residential. The city approved proposals for 247 new apartments in the summer of 2013 and construction is underway. With the availability of a rapid transit line, dozens of new apartments, continued university expansions of the urban campuses and the Market, downtown Grand Rapids is assured to see continued growth in 2014. A New Year’s wish: to see riverfront improvements and investments. carole Valade Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

Where do you find your favorite dessert in Grand Rapids? Coconut pie at Bonefish Grill. — Pat Richter-Higley

“The Chantilly at Arnie’s or their cupcakes! Just don’t eat too much!” — Heather Crosby

THIS MONTH’S ONLINE QUESTION:

Tres Leches cake at Super Cream Mexican Bakery. – Lupita Garza-Grande

“Olive’s. Always homemade and always a changing menu, and no matter what it is, it’s delicious! I’m a cheesecake girl, but anything with chocolate or caramel will get me every time.” — Tammy Haraburda Foster

How do you stay warm in the winter? Respond at facebook.com/grmag.

illustrations courtesy downtown market (top); photography courtesy thinkstock (bottom)

LAST MONTH’S ONLINE QUESTION:

8 grand rapids \ DECEMBER 2013

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illustrations courtesy downtown market (top); photography courtesy thinkstock (bottom)

500 Grandville Ave. SW

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Grand Rapids, MI 49503

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contributors BEHIND the scenes

Serving the finest Italian & American cuisine in our family dining & banquet rooms, or enjoy the fun in Grand Rapids favorite Sports Lounge!

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1/ CHELSEA GRAINER,

2/ DANA BLINDER,

Writer

3/ JULIE BURCH ,

“FEELS LIKE HOME,” page 14

“YARN CRAFTS FIND A NEW AUDIENCE,” page 38

“MASTER CHEFS WORK TOGETHER,” page 62

Major in College? I’ve just received my Bachelor of Arts degree in English and psychology from Hope College.

The last race I ran was … A half marathon in Chicago. 13.1 miles means 13.1 months of rest afterward, right?

In my spare time …. I read everything I can get my hands on. I also write my dreams down as nonsensical short stories.

Best Christmas gift ever? Green fleece pajamas from my parents. Crazy and cozy all at once.

Favorite holiday tradition? Having the extended family get together for Christmas Eve and taking goofy pictures with Grandma.

On New Years Eve …. I’ll watch the ball drop downtown, then race the crowd to find a good set at one of the local breweries.

Writer

My working motto? Nothing’s ever perfect until deadline ... Favorite holiday dish? Mashed potatoes — dang those Irish ancestors! Wine or martini? Being a woman of excess, I say: Why not both? Pre-party with a martini, but a companionable wine is perfect with whatever meal follows.

We’re all ears … tell us what you like or dislike in this issue. Please include your name, address and daytime phone number. Send to Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or email to letters@grmag.com. Letters may be edited for reaFollow us Visit us Like us on @grmagazine sons of space and clarity. grmag.com Facebook

10 grmag.com \ DECEMBER 2013

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Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com

info@grmag.com

PUBLISHER: John H. Zwarensteyn

EDITORIAL EDITOR: Carole Valade MANAGING EDITOR: Marty Primeau COPY EDITOR: Donna Ferraro CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Joseph A. Becherer, Ira Craaven, Elissa Hillary, Mark F. Miller, Jon C. Koeze, Amy Ruis CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Julie Burch, Chris Carey, Alexandra Fluegel, Juliet and Jeremy Johnson, Daina Kraai, Tricia van Zelst EDITORIAL INTERN: Chelsea Grainer DESIGN PANEL: Joseph A. Becherer, John Berry, Kevin Budelmann, Jim Caughman, Timothy Chester, Sam Cummings, Oliver Evans, James Ludwig, Ray Kennedy, Henry Matthews, Wayne Norlin, Wayne Visbeen DESIGN & PRODUCTION NEW MEDIA, DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER:

Scott Sommerfeld

ASSISTANT DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER:

Chris Pastotnik

ART COORDINATOR: Kelly J. Nugent DESIGNERS/PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS:

Melissa Brooks, Kristen Van Oostenbrugge, Robin Vargo CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Adam Bird, Michael Buck, Jim Gebben, Johnny Quirin SALES GENERAL SALES MANAGER:

Randy D. Prichard

ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANTS:

General Inquiries: advertisingsales@grmag.com Emily Bernath, Theresa Henk, Kathie Manett, John Olsa ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT/COORDINATOR:

Karla Jeltema

CIRCULATION & MARKETING CIRCULATION & MARKETING MANAGER:

Scott T. Miller

CIRCULATION & MARKETING COORDINATOR:

Alex Fluegel

CIRCULATION & MARKETING ASSISTANT:

Shane Chapin

TO ORDER SUBSCRIPTIONS: (616) 459-4545 TO CHANGE ADDRESS: subscribe@geminipub.com

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION MANAGER:

Pamela Brocato, CPA

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Tina Gillman RECEPTIONIST/CLERICAL ASSISTANT:

General Inquiries: info@grmag.com Lorraine Brugger

TO ORDER REPRINTS: Karla Jeltema

(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 © 2013 by Gemini Publications. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $3.95 (by mail $6); back issue $6 (by mail $7.50), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

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Mediamark Research Inc. (MRI)

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

noteworthy INTERESTING TIDBITS WE THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW

TRAVELING LIGHT If you’re jetting off for a holiday getaway, consider Micro Luggage ($300), a travel case on a kickboard designed to help flyers move quickly through airports. It folds up to fit in overhead luggage compartments.

Nature’s cook top In Fennville, Joan Donaldson and her husband, John, have been farming organic blueberries for nearly 40 years. In “Wedded to the Land: Stories From a Simple Life on an Organic Fruit Farm,” Joan shares a collection of essays about everything from adopting two sons from a Colombian orphanage to mourning the death of a beloved ox. Truly inspiring prose.

brand Micro-Mobility Ltd. is distributed by Kickboard USA in Grand Rapids. See kickboardusa.com.

Impress your dinner guests by using Himalayan salt slabs and bricks for an artful presentation of hot or cold dishes. The slabs, harvested in Pakistan, can be heated to high temperatures to sear thinly sliced meats, fish, veggies and other quick-cooking foods, or chilled to serve sushi, appetizers, cold meats or desserts. Intriqued? Check out the pink salt products at Spice Merchants in Downtown Market GR.

New brew

On Dec. 2, Founders Brewing Co. will release Sweet Repute, the eighth beer in the brewery’s Backstage Series. The wheat beer spent 16 months in maple syrup bourbon barrels. “We’re excited about this one,” said Dave Engbers, brewery co-founder. “Every sample we’ve pulled from the barrels down in the caves has been incredible.”

Hoping to find some unique holiday gifts? Art and craft shows abound this month. Check out 10 Potters; 10 Weavers at Design Quest, 4181 28th St SE. Decorative and functional clay and textile art pieces (at left) include handwoven items, jewelry, ornaments, clothing, baskets and more from West Michigan Potters Guild and Woodland Weavers & Spinners Guild. It’s also the 25th year for the Holiday Artists’ Market at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. Admission to the Dec. 6-7 juried show is free and artists will be on hand to showcase a variety of handmade goods. Visit uica.org.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (CENTER); COURTESY KICKBOARD USA (TOP RIGHT); WESTBOW PRESS (TOP LEFT); DESIGN QUEST (BOTTOM); FOUNDERS BREWING CO (LOWER MIDDLE);

‘WEDDED TO THE LAND’

The innovative scooter by Swiss

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Fragrance wizard

PhotoGraPhy by michael buck

PhotoGraPhy by michael buck (ceNter); courteSy kickboarD uSa (toP riGht); WeStboW PreSS (toP leFt); DeSiGN QueSt (bottom); FouNDerS breWiNG co (loWer miDDle);

here’s nothing more frustrating than getting hooked on a fragrance only to have it discontinued. As owner of SP Fine Bath and Body, Pam Motyka has made recreating favorite scents one of her specialties. “I have more than 80 natural fragrance oils and essential oils, plus access to many more that I use to make custom blends,” she said. “The sky’s the limit. I start with a base, add ingredients, and I can recreate just about anything.” SP Fine Bath and Body started in 2006 as a soap-making experiment to help a friend and quickly morphed into a full-time endeavor for Motyka, a stay-at-home mom who was homeschooling her children. Her husband, Marty, made molds for the soap and their four kids helped, as well, making it a true family business. They opened a store called Simple Pleasures in Lowell, and Pam was soon making and selling a variety of soaps, body lotions and butters — even branching out into organic deodorant, hair products, bug spray, sunscreen and more. In 2010, the Motykas decided to close the brick-and-mortar store and sell primarily online and at craft shows. They converted a spare room in their Freeport home into a space where Pam makes, stores and sells her products. And it seems there’s always some new project in the works. “Over the years we’ve changed our recipes,” she said. When she started selling through West Michigan Cooperative five years ago, Motyka received numerous requests for bath and body products made without chemicals. “That really made me turn the corner and go green,” she said. “Not just natural — there’s a difference. I’ve even taught classes at the Grand Rapids Public Library to teach people what chemical-free really means.” After renewing her cosmetology license, Motyka said she also has plans to open a small hair salon in her home. But her favorite project is connecting customers with a special scent they thought was gone forever. “Just the other day, a woman asked if I could make jasmine vanilla lotion that was sold at Bath & Body Works.” she said. “I did some research and came up with the recipe. And the best part? I was able to make it a chemical-free product.”

Her bestselling items vary by season, she said, but, by far, the lotion bars are what she’s known for. “It’s a lotion in a solid form that helps heal dry, cracked hands and feet, and it’s great for people with eczema or psoriasis,” she said. “People love it.” — MarTY PriMeaU

“I have more than 80 natural fragrance oils and essential oils, plus access to many more that I use to make custom blends.” — Pam Motyka

December 2013 / GrmaG.com 13

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

Feels like home Enter Hunt & Gather in East Hills and you’ll likely be greeted by a loveable, tailwagging beagle. Harper, a rescue dog, welcomes customers into the store at 951 Cherry St. SE that carries new and vintage home décor and furniture. Owners Kelley and Troy Howley opened the shop a year ago, sharing the space with florist Mari Ignatoski’s Ginko Studios. Kelley got the idea to sell vintage pieces while hunting for furnishings for their Grand Rapids home. “I was able to express the design and creativity that had been bottled up for forever,” said Kelley, who scoured flea markets, Craigslist and other spots to find unique furniture and home accessories. “I came across great vintage pieces, but there were more than I could fit into our home.” In their shop, the Howleys have created what Kelley describes as a “modern vintage lifestyle,” with everything from Turkish linens to a bust of George Washington. There are woven tribal rugs along with clear Lucite desk chairs, plus a plethora of

kitschy lamps, bookends, candleholders, throw pillows, art work and more. “We just want to make you feel like you’re walking into our home,” she said. All merchandise has the couple’s stamp of personal approval. If the Howleys don’t love it enough to have in their own home, they won’t put it in the shop. Hunt & Gather also features products by local vendors, including cards by Cyclops & Toad Paper Co. and hand tools by Victor Axe & Tool. The store also carries mittens from Wear It Again Wool, handmade by Kelley’s mother from recycled sweaters. “We get first dibs, so I pick the best ones and put them in the store,” she said. Besides finding a new home for vintage furnishings, the Howleys have a passion for finding homes for animals — including Harper, whom they adopted from Lake Haven Rescue in Newaygo. With every purchase of a Sydney Hale Co. candle, they donate 10 percent of proceeds to animal shelters. The same goes for their leashes and collars.

“We work with different vendors that have similar values to us,” Kelley said. “We believe in good design, welcoming environments, sustainability and family.” For those who need help, whether choosing a unique focal piece or decorating an entire room, Kelley offers her design services, starting at $125. “I want Grand Rapids to realize that hiring a designer doesn’t have to break the bank and can actually save you money and time.” The Howleys post new finds on their Facebook page each week. Or check out the merchandise at huntandgathergr.com. — Chelsea Grainer

Photography by michael buck

Troy and Kelley Howley with Harper.

“We work with different vendors that have similar values to us. We believe in good design, welcoming environments, sustainability and family.” — Kelley Howley 14 Grmag.com \ December 2013

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Photography by michael buck

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living local

We also recycle non-fabric gift bags, wrapping paper and tissue paper we’ve been given by re-using them for gifts for family and friends.

Dreaming of a green Christmas “reDUce, reUSe, recYcLe” was drilled into me in middle school, but in the bustle of the holiday season, it sometimes may seem easier to ignore this motto. Over the past few years, my husband and I have made a concerted effort to “green” our holiday season. Here are a few tips: Invest in extra dishes and glassware We really enjoy entertaining, but we don’t like to fill the trash with plastic plates, cups and silverware. In lieu of this, we have a special shelf in our basement where we store extra dishes, glassware, silverware and cloth napkins. Purchasing these items was an upfront investment that yielded a positive return for the environment — and, with repeated use, our bank account. White dishes and clear glasses work well in all seasons. We change the décor with seasonal flowers and table linens. And often, our guests perceive our real plates as classier than paper or plastic alternatives. Purchase a live christmas tree Did you know the majority of fake Christmas trees are imported from China? Save some serious mileage (and carbon) by purchasing a locally grown tree from a family-owned farm or greenhouse. Picking out a tree is a fun family

tradition that supports a key part of Michigan’s largest industry — agriculture. When the holidays are done, your tree can be recycled into woodchips or mulch. recycle your wrappings (and make new ones) I love giving beautifully wrapped gifts, but I don’t appreciate that most wrapping paper is not recyclable. Five years ago, my sister-in-law gave me a gift in a fabric bag that she’d made. I loved it so much, I made my own. Now, gifts exchanged in our household are wrapped in brightly colored fabric bags and reused ribbons. We also recycle non-fabric gift bags, wrapping paper and tissue paper we’ve been given by re-using them for gifts for family and friends. Decorate with locally crafted items and LeD lights Most of our holiday decorations are family heirlooms or items we’ve purchased from local artisans. I recommend checking out area craft shows for unique décor with meaning. In addition, the next time you need to replace a string of holiday lights, choose LED. The holiday season brings enough extra expenditures, and there’s no need to let your energy bill be another. Have you made steps toward making your holiday season more local and sustainable? Please share them at Local First’s Facebook page. For a list of locally owned businesses that can help you along the way, check out local first.com. Happy holidays! — elissa hillarY

PhotoGraPhy courteSy thiNkStock

Elissa Hillary is executive director of Local First, a nonprofit organization supporting locally owned businesses in West Michigan.

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Photography courtesy thinkstock

READY FOR A COZY WINTER?

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

Neil’s picks for the holidays Valley of Amazement by Amy Tan – The holiday season’s big, sumptuous “take-me-away-from-itall” novel. Masterful escapism. Amsterdam: A History of the World’s Most Liberal City by Russell Shorto – A compelling biography of Europe’s most interesting, city. Night Film by Marisha Pessl – Give the gift of creepiness with Stephen King’s “Doctor Sleep” or this equally unnerving book. Or both. History Decoded by Brad Meltzer – Synopses of 10 unsolved historical mysteries; great for history buffs and conspiracy theorists. Envelopes contain removable facsimiles of documents. Fourth and Long by John U. Bacon – There has to be a Big 10 football fan on your list, right?

Notes From Neil His official title is director of community and business services at Schuler Books & Music. But to those who follow his weekly newsletter, Neil Rajala is an ardent bibliophile who writes reviews of must-read titles most people have never heard of. Notes From Neil began as a marketing experiment in 2010 when Rajala was general manager of the Schuler Books at 40 Fountain St. NW. The informal newsletter went out to about 100 or so people in the downtown area. “Response was considerably more than I was expecting,” he said. “People would walk in the store and ask, ‘Where’s Neil?’ and introduce themselves.” He was getting lots of emails from people commenting on his choices or thanking him for recommending a book. There were even some authors who got in touch. When the downtown Schuler location closed in January, his fans swiftly responded, asking Rajala to continue making his weekly picks. So the Notes From Neil newsletter continues, now going out to more than 9,200 Schuler customers and archived as a blog on the company website. “Reading has always been a huge

passion for me,” said Rajala, who moved to Grand Rapids to study at Kendall College of Art & Design. “I was reading books long before kindergarten.” He reviews books he thinks people should know about, especially the ones that don’t get much media exposure. “That may sound narrow, but it’s really the widest focus possible,” he said. “People get in the habit of reading the same authors — Stephen King, Tom Clancy and James Patterson — and they stay with those people. In the meantime, they’re missing an array of interesting books. I try to steer them off the main highway.” Rajala also is an artist who specializes in cut paper. “I create intricate paper designs, like the ones you see from Eastern Europe and Asia.” And perhaps his lesser known talent is cooking. “I have a huge collection of cookbooks,” he said, adding that he cooked professionally for awhile. “My kids tell me I’m the best cook when it looks like there’s nothing in the refrigerator.” Check out Notes From Neil on the Schuler website at schulerbooks.com. — Marty Primeau

The Drunken Botanist by Amy Stewart – A funny and fascinating compendium of man’s search for the flora that inebriates us. Drink recipes are useful for the holidays. Dear Life by Alice Munro – She was this year’s winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. She’s a true master of the short story. Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls by David Sedaris – Just for laughs, and Mr. Sedaris never fails to provide them. Beautiful Lego by Michael Doyle – A photo book that highlights how the little plastic toys can become a fine art medium in the right hands. The Snow Hunters by Paul Yoon – A novel-in-miniature in a perfect stocking-stuffer size.

Photography by XXXXXXXXXXX

Reading Room

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Award Winning Menu • Elegant Atmosphere Private Dining • Sunday Brunch

PhotoGraPhy by XXXXXXXXXXX

63 Market Avenue, S.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616.459.2500 Reserve Online Muer.com

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

Combining artistic passions

> art gallery 318 Location: 318 E. Main, Lowell Hours: Open by appointment only, workshops or open houses. Contact: (616) 890-1879; kathleenmooney.com or Facebook

athleen Mooney has been an artist since the age of 3. “I remember creating a mural behind my bedroom door with crayons,” she said with a chuckle. “I’ve never stopped making artwork.” Mooney’s creative nature inspired her to open Fire and Water Gallery in Lowell, a space that regularly featured work by up to 25 artists. But after seven years, she decided to close the gallery last December as part of a quest to simplify her life. “It has been so nice to be able to focus on my own work,” she said, “and not be managing everyone else’s.” In January, Mooney opened Art Gallery 318 just down the street from her former location. It’s a hybrid facility that provides her with a permanent solo exhibition space for her multi-layered acrylic paintings, and a workshop space — Art Academy 318 — to help others realize their artistic potential. Mooney, along with various visiting artists, teaches a series of classes in the space. Renovating the building at 318 E.

Main St. took several months of hard work, “but I knew it was going to be beautiful. Only an artist could see the potential this place had.” The results are impressively serene and combine Mooney’s passions. “My two main loves truly are making my own work and teaching others how to make theirs,” she said. “So many people want to create art and think they can’t. I gently separate them from what is holding them back and move them on.” The academy offers classes in everything from such basics as how to handle a paint brush to mono-printing and quilting. “I really want to get people to think outside the box,” Mooney said. “The more experimental the better.” Mooney is an active member of the International Society of Experimental Artists, and her artistic education has been sporadic and varied. “I use precious resources of time and money to study what I need when I need it.” Her artistic pursuits have taken her all over the globe. “I have been to France to study and

Photography by michael buck

Kathleen Mooney opened Art Gallery 318 to exhibit her work, and Art Academy 318 as a space to teach others.

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Deck the halls!

“So many people want to create art and think they can’t. I gently separate them from what is holding them back and move them on.” — Kathleen Mooney

make Neolithic pottery. There have been many trips to London and Bath in the United Kingdom to study historic clothing and textiles. I spent a week studying Richard Diebenkorn’s ‘Ocean Park’ series at the Orange County Museum in California,” she said. Besides providing a permanent showroom for her work, Mooney said the multi-

functional facility also has space to meet with clients and designers. “The gallery helps me plan the layout of shows and is a great place to photograph my work for exhibitions and my books,” she said. Visit Mooney’s website to view her paintings and to see a full list of work— EMMA HIGGINS shops and events.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Upcoming events: Mooney hosts regular open houses during which the public can drop by, see her work and take a look at the space. The next open house is scheduled for 1-5 p.m. Dec. 14. Festive art in Lowell: Lowell Arts! King Gallery, 149 S. Hudson, annually hosts Sleigh Bells and Holly, a holiday artists market with more than 40 people exhibiting and selling their arts and crafts, including glasswork, pottery, paintings, photography and more. The market runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays until Dec. 21. lowellartsmi.org.

* open by appointment Dec 26-Jan 1* Tu-Fr 10-5 Sat 12-4 616-459-5075 820 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids shop@metalartstudioinc.com DECEMBER 2013 / GRMAG.COM 21

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art talk

Joseph A. Becherer is curator of sculpture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and a professor at Aquinas College.

> Durand is frequently seen as a Romantic. Notice how the swirling clouds, dramatic light and shadows enhance the mood of the work beyond merely describing a place.

> Notice the figures. They may seem incidental, but they are evidence of a long tradition in landscape painting that required some evidence of a human story to legitimize the work.

> Allow yourself to visually journey through the work. Slowly let your eyes and attention move from foreground to middle ground to background.

Stunning landscapes at GRAM For most oF the last two centuries, images of the landscape have proved to be the most sought-after genre of painting. At times these images represent the pure majesty and mystery of a given place, but they also represent a search for a new Eden in the face of growing industrialism in Europe and America. For some, landscape paintings spoke of exploration and adventure, while for others they could be contemplative opportunities, even spiritually uplifting experiences. This season the landscape holds particular meaning in Grand Rapids both through the collections and an extraordinary exhibition at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. “View in the Valley of Oberhastle, Switzerland” by the American master Asher B. Durand (1796-1886) is among the most stunning works in the museum’s collection. As a central figure within 19th century America’s most prominent art movement, the Hudson River School, he was drawn to the epic beauty of the natural world and translated it to his canvases. Though connected to New York, he also traveled widely. Two aesthetic elements play starring roles in Durand’s description of place: space and light. In “View in the Valley,” he clearly describes the foreground through the tree and

hillside, then takes us through the valley to visually scale the epic mountain. Notice how the skies open on either side and seemingly into infinity. His sense of space is clear and composed. Carefully follow the light from left to right. It is consistent, as are the shadows, and holds the vast spaces and endless details together. Space and light masterfully unify what could otherwise be an overwhelming and confusing vision. Many would be surprised to know that throughout most of the history of art in the west, the landscape was not thought of as an independent art form, nor later, an important genre. During the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century, the landscape surged to prominence, and only in the mid-19th century did it rise in the ranks to surpass still life and portrait painting to rival narrative (historical, biblical, mythological) subjects. Durand’s “View in the Valley of Oberhastle, Switzerland” helps us appreciate GRAM’s holdings in both 19th century art and landscape imagery in general. It also ties in with a major temporary exhibition of landscape painting from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Enjoy. — JOSEPH A. BECHERER

PhOTOGRAPhy COuRTESy GRAND RAPIDS ART muSEum

things to consiDer: > At the time “View in the Valley of Oberhastle, Switzerland” was painted, most artists made sketches, then painted in their studios in order to mix their paints. Readymade paint in a tube was still a generation away.

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

106 Gallery and Studio: Calvin College-run gallery in Heartside features student and local artists’ work. Thru Dec. 20: Art Education Exhibition. 106 S. Division Ave., calvin.edu/centerartgallery/studio. Art Gallery 318: Fine art by Kathleen Mooney. 318 E. Main St., Lowell, 890-1879, facebook.com/ ArtGallery318FineArt. Avenue for the Arts: First Fridays: Dec. 6, galleries, shops and restaurants on South Division open their doors from 6-10 p.m. to feature art, handmade goods and drink specials. Each venue will feature new events and sales. For a list of participating venues, visit avenueforthearts.com or on Facebook. Betsy Ratzsch Pottery: Ceramics, artwork and gifts from American artisans. 584 Ada Drive, 682-0266, betsyr pottery.com.

PhOTOGRAPhy COuRTESy VALENTINA GRIGORIEVA (TOP RIGhT); DR. STEVEN L. SmITh (CENTER); FLAT RIVER GALLERy (bOTTOm)

PhOTOGRAPhy COuRTESy GRAND RAPIDS ART muSEum

Cascade Art Gallery: Multi-media art, print collection, glass, sculpture, jewelry, custom framing, gifts. Thru Dec. 28: Annual Holiday Show. 2840 Thornapple River Drive SE, 949-4056, cascadegall ery.blogspot.com.

and more. 4181 28th St. SE, 940-0131, design quest.biz. Forest Hills Fine Art Center: Thru Dec. 13, 10th Anniversary Retrospective Exhibit showing works of 55 West Michigan artists (and available to purchase). 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhﬁneartscenter.com. Gallery 154: Local and national multi-media art, gifts, jewelry. 1456 Lake Drive SE, 454-2154, gall ery154.com. Gaspard Gallery: Artist-operated contemporary gallery. 235 S. Division Ave., 401-7533, gasp ardgallery.com. Grand Rapids Art Museum: See Museums & Attractions. Heartside Gallery: Folk, outsider and intuitive art by self-taught Heartside residents. 48 S. Division Ave., 235-7211, ext. 103, heartside. org. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: See Museums & Attractions.

Kendall College of Art and Design: Four galleries display Center Art Gallery: Calwork by students, staff and vin College’s on-campus galvisiting artists. Galleries are lery features student, faculty in the Fountain Street Buildand alumni work and that of ing and at the Fed Galleries, 17 secular and religious artists Pearl St. NW. See kcad.edu/ of note. Thru Dec. 17: Gallery 2/ “Haiti’s Children: Hope Amidst galleries. 1, Exquisite History 3: The Vithe Rubble” is on display through sionary Workbook. Gallery 2 , LowellArts! King Gallery: Dec. 13 at GVSU in Allendale. A Prodigal Story for the MarCommunity gallery with seven ketplace: The Remondini and rotating exhibits throughout year. Thru Dec. 21: 18th-Century Print Culture. 1795 Knollcrest Circle Sleigh Bells & Holly. 149 S. Hudson, Lowell, 897SE, Covenant Fine Arts Center, 526-6271, calvin. 8545, lowellartsmi.org. edu/centerartgallery. MercuryHead Gallery: Work by local artists Con Artist Crew: Art collective and gallery. plus gifts and framing. 962 E. Fulton St., 456-6022, 1111 Godfrey SW, North Building, No. 198, conartist Facebook. crew.com. Muskegon Museum of Art: See Museums & Craft House: Collaborative art and discussion Attractions. space. 40 S. Division Ave., crafthousegr.com and Facebook. Nice Gallery: Artist-run gallery features contemporary artwork. 1111 Godfrey Ave. SW, No. 4C, Design Gallery at Design Quest: Furniture 284-1771, thenicegallery.com. store houses gallery with changing exhibitions of art and design. Thru Jan. 12: Ten Potters, Ten Perception Gallery: Fine art gallery also offers Weavers. West Michigan Potters Guild and Woodhome décor, art restoration and appraisal servicland Weavers & Spinners Guild exhibit decorative es. 210 E. Fulton St., 451-2393. and functional clay art and textile arts including Richard App Gallery: Fine art from local and hand-woven items, jewelry, ornaments, baskets U.S. artists. 910 Cherry St. SE, 458-4226, therich ardappgallery.tumblr.com. Sanctuary Folk Art: Salon-style gallery displays and sells local folk art. 140 S. Division Ave., 454-0401, Facebook. UICA: Innovative exhibits and installations change regularly. Holiday Artists’ Market, noon-9 p.m. Dec. 6-7; vendors ﬁll the ﬂoors with handmade goods. 2 W. Fulton St., 459-7000, uica.org. Check websites for hours of operation.

3/ An exhibit of paintings by Lynn Anderson runs through January at Flat River Gallery in Lowell.

1/ “Sunny Afternoon” by abstract artist Valentina Grigorieva at Terryberry Gallery.

Local art galleries COMPILED BY ALEXANDRA FLUEGEL

1/ terryberry gallery: Celebrate the work of abstract artist Valentina Grigorieva Dec. 3-Jan. 31 (opening reception 5:30-8 p.m. Dec. 6). Grigorieva’s paintings reflect her broad interests in subject matter. Lower level of St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmc-online.org/build ing/terryberry-gallery. 2/ gVsU: Haiti’s Children: Hope Amidst the Rubble is an exhibit of photos by Dr. Steven L. Smith of the Grand Valley School of Social Work, who spent a 2012 sabbatical working in Haiti and documenting conditions following the January 2010 earthquake. Through Dec. 13 in the Lake Ontario Hall, 1 Campus Drive in Allendale. 331-7366. 3/ Flat riVer gallery: Join artist Lynn Anderson for a reception Dec. 19 from 6-8 p.m. Anderson strives to make “feel good” art that is joyful and uplifting, often painting gardens, organic shapes and fruit. Runs thru January. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 987-6737, flatrivergalleryandframing.com.

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

“We’ve got a lot of fun jewelry with flashy stones that can be worn during the work day and with jeans. It’s fun to mix it up and go outside your comfort zone.” — Prudence Kauffman

Cuffs from Blacklamb include, from left, a Lele Sadoughi bracelet featuring Czech crystals and genuine stones in 14 karat gold; Blacklamb Wavy Cuff with pave crystals set in cut-out wave pattern on a gold vermeil adjustable cuff; and Blacklamb Agate Cuff with a purple agate set in hammered gold vermeil. Visit blacklamb. co or on Facebook.

Arm candy By Marty Primeau Photography by Michael Buck

When it comes to making a statement with accessories, bigger is definitely better. Hot items include chunky, oversized necklaces, and flashy, dangling earrings. And then there’s arm candy — those oh-so-dramatic cuffs and bracelets. “We noticed the trend really building last summer,” said Prudence Kauffman, owner of Dear Prudence boutiques in MoDiv and Gaslight Village. “Jewelry has been getting super chunky and really colorful.” Cuffs and bracelets are easy to wear and add an edge to any outfit, she said. And don’t think rhinestones and other glittery baubles are meant only for evening or holiday. “We’ve got a lot of fun jewelry with flashy stones that can be worn during the work day and with jeans. It’s fun to mix it up and go outside your comfort zone.”

At Blacklamb, owner Ryann Lambay has created her own line of jewelry, and her motto is “the bolder, the better.” Pieces in her “luxe” collection often mix large stones such as druzy agate, or onyx with gold or silver. “Ryann is very inspired by India,” said Marissa Boswell, who manages the store at 949 Cherry St. SE. “She travels there a few times a year to pick out stones and materials. She likes to use big, bright stones mixed with lots of gold.” Boswell said initially the craze “was stacking a lot of small bracelets. But that got to be difficult, so women are buying one big statement piece for the wrist.” Also in demand are unique pieces, the retailers say. “Women don’t want to wear something that everyone has,” Kauffman said. “They’re looking for unusual, one-of-aGR kind jewelry.”

Prudence Kauffman at Dear Prudence boutiques carries a line of leather cuffs made from vintage belts and jewelry. Each bracelet is unique. Above, dangling cluster bracelets come in a variety of colors. See dearprudence.com. 24 Grmag.com \ December 2013

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CRAFT-REVIVAL

Holidays at Meijer Gardens. Naturally. Behold the beauty of nature this holiday season with an enchanting visit to Meijer Gardens. Discover more than 42 holiday traditions from cultures around the world. Everyone young and young-at-heart will delight in the Railway Garden, a unique horticultural display featuring 30 West Michigan landmarks recreated in natural materials, model trains and railways.

This exhibition is made possible by 39 sponsors including The Meijer Foundation

Railway Garden is made possible by Warner Norcross & Judd LLP

Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

CHRISTMAS AND HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD

NOV 26, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JAN 5, 2014 December 2013 / GRmAG.COm 25

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Nelson Bubble Lamps are a mid-century classic designed by George Nelson in 1947 and part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Interior designer Rock Kauffman chose the Nelson Saucer Pendant Lamp for the dining area of this Rockford home built by New Urban Home Builders. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It illustrates the direction that design is going,â&#x20AC;? Kauffman said.

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

Add some pizzazz Accessorize your home with a variety of chandeliers and ceiling lamps.

By Marty Primeau

nterior designer Donna Cohen calls lighting fixtures “the jewelry of the home.” Just as a sparkly accessory

Photography courtesy New Urban Home Builders

can transform a woman’s outfit, a unique chandelier can give a room personality. “It’s the thing you notice when you enter a space,” Cohen said. “You can take an old home and make a huge impact just by changing the lighting.” As chandeliers and other decorative lighting fixtures have surged in popularity with homeowners of all ages and incomes, designers say many of the old rules have gone by the wayside. “Chandeliers definitely are being used in less precious ways,” said interior designer Kathryn Chaplow. “They’re not just for the dining room anymore. We’re putting them in bedrooms, powder rooms, in a mudroom entry and over the kitchen island.”

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

And while the definition of chandelier (a French term for candleholder) refers to “a decorative hanging light with branches for several light bulbs or candles,” the term seems to have broadened to include a variety of styles, shapes, sizes, finishes and colors. “Chandeliers are more popular than ever,” said Kim Needham, owner of Bluedoor Antiques. “We’re seeing a lot of young people in their 20s and 30s buying traditional chandeliers that we’ve had painted in colors like red or ocean blue. Color takes the chandelier to a whole new level.” Homeowners also are mixing styles, the designers say. “Contemporary fixtures marry very well in traditional spaces, especially if they are artistic and not too trendy,” Chaplow said. “A hardwired light fixture should last you several years, so look for something forward in design. The rest of the room can catch up.” And don’t worry about having matching fixtures throughout the home, Cohen said. “You don’t have to be committed to brushed nickel in every room. You can mix textures as

Interior designer Donna Cohen used numerous chandeliers and ceiling lamps throughout this East Grand Rapids house built by J. Peterson Homes. In the mud room, above, is a red glossy sheen of colored parchment and polished nickel with a generously sized drum shade. In the lower level game room is a hand-finished, wrought-iron chandelier. Opposite page, Cohen went with a chandelier featuring a cluster of pear-shaped leaded glass drops on a polished nickel frame in the dining area while the living room has a square tube, six-armed chandelier with a parchment paper shade. Opposite page, far right. This unique French crystal chandelier is one of many spectacular vintage lighting fixtures at Bluedoor Antiques, 946 E. Fulton St.

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photography by michael buck (pages 28-29)

“You can mix textures as long as you make sure everything has the same feel.” — Donna Cohen long as you make sure everything has the same feel.” Needham agreed. “A lot of people don’t want matchy-matchy,” she said. “It’s fun to mix it up. People want a chandelier that makes a statement — something you won’t find in every home.” Like a chandelier made from repurposed materials. “It’s fun using an object that wasn’t intended to be a light fixture,” Chaplow said. “It adds a sense of whimsy.” But she warned about going too far. “Editing is essential when choosing any home accessory,” she said. “You want to have the right proportions. And keep in mind that a little goes a long way. One strong statement is better than lots and lots. You don’t want to get gimmicky.” GR December 2013 / Grmag.com 29

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Architect Mark F. Miller is an urban designer at Nederveld, and has led the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission and the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

things to consiDer: Like many of the Romantic-era styles, the Italianate style was made popular by the published pattern books of architect Andrew Jackson Downing in the 1840s and ’50s.

The McCabe-Marlowe House originally had a cupola topping its roof. It was removed around 1900. Other Italianate buildings in Grand Rapids include:

> The Morris Manor, 434 Cherry St. SE, built in 1858 and still sporting a square-shaped cupola.

> The Cherry Hill Market, 721 Cherry St. SE.

> The Flat Iron building, northwest corner of Monroe Center and Ottawa Avenue.

An Italianate rebel heritage hill’s McCabe-Marlowe House, 74 Lafayette Ave. NE, is an excellent local example of the Italianate style developed in the 1830s. The house was constructed in 1865 by Grand Rapids businessman, postmaster and public servant James Gallup. Italianate is one of the styles in the Romantic or Picturesque architectural movement that was prevalent from about 1820 to 1880, and was essentially a rebellion against the preceding Colonial era’s strict adherence to the classical form. Motivated by trends that evoked expressive freedom and stylistic choices, the “revival” styles of the Romantic period drew design inspiration from historic European architecture. These Romantic styles spread throughout the United States because of their popularity in pattern books and national magazines. Italianate, originally called “Italianate Villa,” was modeled after the rambling informal farmhouses (villas) of the Italian countryside. The style was marked by the

irregular forms, square towers and elaborate decorative cornices that were the identifying features of the medieval farmhouses that inspired it. As the style evolved, it became known simply as Italianate. During this evolution, the massing and architectural form simplified to square or rectangular shaped plans, and often the anchoring tower was replaced by a square cupola. The decorative cornice, however, remained as an essential element, accentuating deep overhangs and low-sloped hipped roofs.

While sometimes decorative, cupolas often were functional: “Lanterns” are cupolas that admit light into the building, while a “belvedere” is a cupola that provides scenic views or serves as a lookout. Other identifiable features of the style include tall narrow windows that accentuate the vertical form of the main structure, arched or curved window tops (frequently with elaborate crowns), and a building that is almost always two or three stories. Most Italianate homes also have columned porticoes or porches, sometimes extending across the full width of the front façade. The McCabe-Marlowe House was named for Marie Bell McCabe and her niece Wilma McCabe Marlowe, who owned it from 1945 to 1979. Both McCabe and Marlowe were longtime professors at Grand Rapids Junior College and sold it to the college’s foundation in 1980. Today, the Grand Rapids Community College Foundation owns and operates the nearly 150-year-old structure as a hospitality house. It has been designated a Michigan Historical Marker and proudly stands as a reminder of our city’s rich heritage. — MARK F. MILLER

PhOTOGRAPhy by JIm GEbbEN

frame works

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DOLLAR STORE JUstagirlblog.com

Ornament alternatives Chris Carey has suggestions for how to spend less on holiday décor.

PAPER

Since the holiday season puts a strain on most budgets, it seems natural to try to save money when it comes to holiday décor. As homeowners try to be more creative with their decorating and their budgets, I am offering some alternatives to the typical ornament. Christmas trees no longer have to be decorated with traditional glass balls. Hopefully, these suggestions will ease your pocketbook this season. Use paper: I think many people would be surprised at how much can be done with paper. It may take a little ingenuity (and patience!), but paper could very well be the least expensive alternative when decorating the tree. Cut it into shapes, splatter it with glitter, and you’ve got yourself a beautiful ornament for very little expense. think nature: Luckily, we live in a region that provides us with plenty of resources for decorating the tree naturally. It can be as simple as a pinecone tied with ribbon or some dried oranges threaded with string. Go on a nature walk and see what you can pick up to decorate. Don’t be afraid of some paint or glitter if needed. Dollar store finds: Yes, the Dollar Store. It is what I consider my little treasure trove for the holidays. You can literally buy a tube of ornaments for a dollar, which leaves you plenty of leftover cash to embellish them if needed. The stores do a good job of staying up with color trends and keeping classic colors stocked, so it’s a no-brainer. Shop around and see what you find. Thinking outside the box is the most effective way to save money. Alternative decorations may require you to invest a little more time, but it also allows for more personalization and pride when reflecting on your holiday décor. Challenge yourself to be creative, and your pocketbook will thank you! — Chris Carey is a Rockford wife, mom, teacher and avid do-it-yourselfer who shares her home projects and decorating tips at justagirlblog.com. (Above & below)

PhOTOGRAPhy COuRTESy ChRIS CAREy

PhOTOGRAPhy by JIm GEbbEN

NATURE

Thinking outside the box is the most effective way to save money. Alternative decorations may require you to invest a little more time, but it also allows for more personalization and pride when reﬂecting on your holiday décor.

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By Alexandra Fluegel Photography by Michael Buck

What’s for dessert? We searched the city for interesting dishes to end a meal or add a little sweet joy to the day.

bandon all diets ye who enter here. ’Tis the season to be jolly and there’s no need in pretending there’s any joy in complete restraint. Between work parties and family get-togethers, there should be ample opportunity to partake in a bit more than Santa’s milk and cookies. As the saying goes, go big or go home, and we’re indulging in the celebration of delectable treats and offering you sugar, spice and everything nice, from bakeries to local bloggers. Here’s some goodies to help satisfy any craving during the holiday season. Just try not to drool all over the pages.

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Warning: decadence ahead We told you to abandon your diet at the door, and here’s an Eggnog Cheesecake to show you why. Olive’s Restaurant in East Grand Rapids is known for its beautiful and mouth-watering desserts. Each month, Pastry Chef Erin Jeffers comes up with new dishes that not only delight the palate but are a sight to see. “We really aim to create a composed dish,” she said. By using plating techniques and the perfect garnishes, Jeffers and her staff make the kinds of things that are just asking to be on Instagram. Jeffers said the Eggnog Cheesecake is a fun twist on a holiday classic. To create it, she whips up a cinnamon-graham cracker crust and then layers eggnog custard and cranberry jam on top. The treat is then covered with a butter bourbon sauce that will have you leaving no crumb behind. “We love changing the desserts each month because it’s fun to capture the essence of each month and season,” she said. “And our guests never get bored.” Or leave hungry, for that matter.

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grab and go let’s face it, with all the running around during the holiday season, sometimes whipping up a homemade dish isn’t in the cards. luckily, there are plenty of local bakeries whose dessert cases are brimming with wonderful confections waiting to go to a good home. nantucket Baking co. is like the Santa’s workshop of treats. All day long, bakers can be seen bustling behind the counter preparing pies, cookies, cakes and other goodies. one great grab-andgo treat are the bakery’s French macarons. Pastry chef nicole curtis describes the delicate French confectionaries as “heaven on earth.” to create, she sandwiches butter cream between light, crunchy almond cookies, adding flavors including maple, pumpkin, pistachio, lavender and cinnamon. curtis said the macarons tend to sell out fast, so if you’re looking for a large amount, it’s a good idea to order in advance.

unique chocolate experience chocoholics have a new place to go when cravings hit. local epicurean, the downtown pasta and gourmet oasis at 111 S. division St., has added a chocolate lounge serving desserts, including handmade organic truffles, chocolate tiramisu, chocolate-dipped strawberries and a chocolate sandwich that tastes like a chocolately hazelnut s’more. drooling yet? especially unique are the hand-rolled truffles. A dozen copper pots are filled with

melted chocolate of varying cocoa percentages. customers choose their chocolate and then a filling, ranging from macerated cherries that have been soaked in brandy, to fresh, edible flowers or herbs such as purple opal basil — even black lava salt. not sure what to choose? A barista will offer suggestions and then hand roll the chocolate around a filling and serve it on an antique silver spoon — a luscious bite of chocolate decadence. epicurean’s chocolate lounge also will have organic coffee and teas, plus a drink for two called cha co lot, hot chocolate with

a dash of chile, served in an antique silver coffeepot. next March, co-owners Steve Bowyer and ryan raredon will open the local, a casual restaurant featuring italian and Mediterranean specialties.

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Crazy awesome Grove — Grand Rapids Magazine’s reigning Restaurant of the Year — not only has earned a reputation with confection appreciators in West Michigan, but also was described by New York Magazine as “one of the most impressively locavore-leaning pastry programs” it found during its quest for “crazy-awesome” desserts. That’s exactly the restaurant’s intent, said pastry chef Erin Keener. “I try and have a local focus — that’s what we’re all about. The thing about using local ingredients is that they shine on their own.” She said she often incorporates fresh Michigan fruit into the restaurant’s ever-shifting dessert inventory, but it’s a dish she came up with in the dead of winter that has guests flocking in to fight over the last bite. “It was more of a ‘what can we do when we don’t have fresh fruit that will still be satisfying and complex?’” Keener said of Grove’s Salted Dark Caramel Fudge. It’s hard to go wrong when you combine chocolate, bourbon and peanut praline, and this “last course” has become a stable on the restaurant’s menu, which normally changes depending on what local farmers have to offer. To create the dish, Keener begins with two pieces of salted dark chocolate fudge and a layer of carmelized brioche. She then drizzles crème fraiche, or “tangy sour cream,” and adds a bourbon sauce and peanut praline on top “for extra oomph.” “It’s really rich and interesting because there are so many layers of flavors,” Keener said. “People who love chocolate love it, and even the ‘chocolate haters’ have an affinity.”

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Dietary restrictions

Naughty or nice OK, so all desserts don’t have to land you on the “naughty list” — take it from local healthy-food blogger Liz Della Croce. Her site, The Lemon Bowl, is a “guide to simple, seasonal recipes that just so happen to be good for you.” Della Croce suggests a few modifications that can be used in any recipe to make it a bit more waistline-friendly, but no less delicious. Instead of using white, all-purpose flour, she recommends using whole

wheat pastry flour. “It’s a great alternative for baked goods,” she said. “It maintains some of the minerals, fiber and protein that you get from wheat, but you don’t lose any flavor.” She also suggests replacing butter with coconut oil — which is also good for anyone wanting to create a vegan dish. “That’s a great tip because it’s an exact replacement. Whatever amount the recipe calls for, you still use it — just switch the ingredient.”

Hermit Bars from The Lemon Bowl They may look like a typical cookie bar, but these soft and chewy treats, made with ginger, molasses and raisins, pack a punch of flavor. And you don’t have to feel bad for eating more than one. Each bar is only 105 calories and three grams of fat! Della Croce said everyone who tries these “goes nuts over them,” so if you bring them to a holiday party, be sure to snag one (or four) before they’re gone. Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 2 cups brown sugar – packed 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened 2/3 cup dark molasses 2 large eggs 2 cups raisins

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a cookie sheet and set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, nutmeg, salt and cloves. With mixer on medium, beat together brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add in molasses, then egg, and mix until combined. Reduce speed to low and slowly add in the dry ingredients until just combined. Use a spoon to stir in raisins. Scrape edges of bowl with a plastic spatula. Flour hands, then carefully press dough into even layer on the floured cookie sheet. Bake 17-19 minutes, depending on oven. Remove when toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before slicing into bars. Make 64 bars. Note: this recipe can also be found on The LemonBowl.com

If there’s one thing Matthew Russell, owner of Wednesday Evening Cookies, has shown, it’s that vegan desserts can be created equal. His goodies fly off of shelves and out of pastry cases at places all over town, including Sparrows Coffee, Tea and Newsstand; Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge; and Bartertown Diner. His Cranberry Orange Spice Tarts are a local fan favorite and are vegan and gluten-free. To make the crust, Russell combines gluten-free flour mix (he uses a mix of white and brown rice flours and tapioca flour) with raw sugar, flaxseed meal, cinnamon, salt and soy milk. He then mixes in Earth Balance Natural Buttery Spread and apple cider vinegar and kneads the crust until uniform, then places it in the freezer while he makes the filling. The filling is a tasty mix of cranberries, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and julienned orange rind — perfect for the holidays. Tarts are great for people looking for something less decadent, Russell said. “They’re simple, yet savory.”

Matthew Russell’s Cranberry Orange Spice Tarts To make the crust: 2 cups gluten-free flour mix (I use a mix of white and brown rice flours and tapioca flour) 1/4 cup raw sugar 2 tablespoons flax seed meal 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup soy milk 1/2 cup Earth Balance Spread 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar Mix and knead until uniform, then place in freezer while you make filling. To make the filling: 2 cups cranberries 3 cups water 3/4 cup raw sugar 1/4 cup julienned orange rind/zest 1 tablespoon cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon cloves 1/4 teaspoon ginger Boil for 15 minutes and add 3 tablespoons agar agar flakes. Boil for another 5 minutes and remove from heat to cool. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove crust from freezer, separate into balls just a little larger than golf ball size. In a greased muffin tin, or tart pans if you have them, press dough against sides, forming uniform edges. Fill tarts about 3/4 full. Bake 25-30 minutes until filling starts to bubble and crust turns golden brown.

Have a favorite dessert in town? Want to show off one of your own tried and true family recipes? Snap a picture of your favorite holiday goodies and tag them #GRDesserts on Instagram and Twitter.

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BY DANA BLINDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Yarn

CRAFTS FIND A NEW AUDIENCE

A younger generation of knitters and crocheters is reaping the benefits of social interaction, creative expression and stress relief.

During ArtPrize 2013, Kalamazoo student Annie Eckrich created a knitted room inside Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. Opposite page: Elyse Marie Welcher, a founding member of the Division Fibers Socials, organized a yarn bombing along South Division Avenue during ArtPrize.

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L HERE ARE A FEW LOCAL FIBER ART STORES AND CLUBS TO CHECK OUT: DIVISION FIBERS SOCIALS take place 6-9 p.m. Mondays at Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge, 100 Commerce St. SE, with monthly socials 6-9 p.m. the first Friday of the month at Parliament the Boutique, 120 S. Division Ave. For more info, see Collective Wings on Facebook. CLEVER EWE, 596 Ada Drive SE, cleverewe.com A GRAND SKEIN, 2431 Eastern Ave. SE, agrandskein.com THREADBENDER, 2767 44th St., Wyoming, threadbenderinc.com FRIENDS OF WOOL, 442 Washington Ave., Holland, friendsofwool.com

AST SUMMER, a group of young crafters spent hours planning a mass act of graffiti. The colorful work displayed along South Division Avenue during ArtPrize took months of planning, recruiting and teaching. The result was a yarn bombing — a nondestructive form of street art intended to spark positive conversation about public spaces. The culprit behind it was Division Fibers, a local collection of artists specializing in knitting and crocheting. “We hosted socials starting in July to teach people to knit and crochet for free, providing supplies, tools, lessons and space at my shop,” said Elyse Marie Welcher, owner of Parliament the Boutique and a founding member of Division Fibers. Members got together to knit or crochet pieces to wrap around light poles, parking meters, bike racks and trees. The intent was less about warming chilly lampposts and more about the expression of a younger generation reviving an old-fashioned craft. Social knitting clubs like Division Fibers Socials have popped up around the city allowing folks to learn and to turn their hobby into an expense-free social activity. Meanwhile, more established yarn stores are seeing an influx of younger clientele. Lynn McKeown, an education project

Amy Hosmer and Elyse Welcher knit and talk at Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge.

manager at Grand Rapids Community Media Center, has relished the social opportunities of working with yarn. “I knew how to crochet when I was younger, but I recently picked it back up while going to the Division Fibers Social meetings with my partner, Amber,” says McKeown. “I like this group because everyone is very open minded and friendly and willing to help show each other different styles and techniques.” The gatherings provide new friendships as well as insight into new trends and projects. “Beginning knitters tend to start with scarves, but I also see younger crocheters make little dolls, as well,” said McKeown. “I haven’t figured that one out yet, but I’m excited to attempt it at some point.” Knitting is a natural stress reliever and an easy way for young people to assert their individuality, says Annie Eckrich, a Kalamazoo student whose ArtPrize exhibit was a fully knitted room, complete with yarn walls and a knitted couch and lamp tucked into a small space at Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. “Knitting is kitschy and fun,” she said. “It doesn’t require as much stuff as apparel sewing and offers a nice way to move away from materialism — being able to make things for yourself and gifts for others.” Though the craft is experiencing a revival,

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A TRIP TO THE FARME R S M A R K E T often leads young knitters are blazing new trails, moving beyond knitting sweaters, baby blankets and afghans. “I’ve seen a few knitted wedding dresses, but, by and large, younger people tend to knit accessories like shawls, hats, scarves and cowls,” said Eckrich. “There are lots of popular patterns for fingerless gloves, too.” Not only are those projects more manageable, they provide this new generation of knitters the instant gratification they’re often looking for. “Younger people definitely do not knit apparel items to the same extent our mothers and grandmothers did,” she said. “The idea of devoting a long time to knit a full sweater seems like an insurmountable task. There are so many 1930’s knitting patterns for dresses that feel quite hard to follow now.” Juliane Anderson, who opened Threadbenders in Wyoming 29 years ago, says her younger customers tend to find inspiration and instruction on the Internet. “They see things on YouTube,” she said. “There’s a constant influx of information about knitting techniques and what’s new and fresh.” They come into her store to feel the yarns and see what the products look like — “that’s something you can’t get online.” Popular projects range from scarves to sculptural pieces not meant to be functional, Anderson said. One of her staffers followed

a pattern to make a knitted uterus — “just for the fun of doing the shaping techniques.” Dancers work on knitted leg warmers and young moms make soakers — wool diaper covers. “Today’s generation is more environmentally conscious so they are looking for organic yarns and fibers that are natural instead of synthetic. And they tend to come into the store with more knowledge of what’s out there,” she said. Knitters of all ages meet twice a week in the barn behind Sally Meeker’s Clever Ewe shop in Ada. “Knitting is very relaxing,” she said. Physicians often recommend knitting to all patients — not just females, Meeker said. “Joining a social knitting club provides a friendly and safe environment. We have a real sense of camaraderie here.” More than just a social hour, knitting clubs provide an incentive to keep crafting. Meeker said she’s seen group members push each other through projects. “A lot of gals consider it an incentive in getting projects finished,” she said. “People will ask, ‘Whatever happened to that sweater you were working on last week?’. They also get a lot of good ideas from each other on new or continuing projects.” GR

to creative recipes, but one Grand Rapids woman says the array of colorful fruits and veggies inspired her to knit wool baby caps. Jacqueline Tylzynski designs and knits a variety of cute hats and functional felted bowls that resemble everything from apples to rutabagas. Find her at mymarketstall on Etsy.com or at the Fulton Street Farmers Market on Fridays.

“Knitting is kitschy and fun. It doesn’t require as much stuff as apparel sewing and offers a nice way to move away from materialism — being able to make things for yourself and gifts for others.” — ANNIE ECKRICH

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By Terri Finch Hamilton Photography by Johnny Quirin

Founded in 1977, Well House offers refuge and hope for the homeless.

Living the dream

parrows twitter in a patch of ivy in Candice Hager’s backyard on Cass Avenue SE, and the “country girl,” as she calls herself, smiles. “There are birds here and trees and crickets,” says Hager, 41, sitting at a picnic table with her partner, Herman Bonner, on a crisp autumn day. Not so long ago, Hager was sleeping on a mat on the floor at Dégagé Ministries. Bonner, 60, was living at Mel Trotter Mission. Now they’re tenants at Well House, a cluster of houses that offer refuge for people who used to be homeless. Hager and Bonner hold hands as they talk about having their own room with a key, a mini-fridge, access to a TV, a washer and dryer, fresh garden tomatoes. And about hope. “It’s hard for me to get an apartment,” Bonner says. He pauses, then explains. “I spent some time incarcerated. Nobody wants to give you a chance after that. Here, they don’t judge you by your past.” Hager spent time in the substance abuse recovery program at Mel Trotter before living at Dégagé. Her income is disability payments because of an injuryplagued knee. She happily tells of Well House’s library full of books — “I’m an avid reader” — games of bingo, gatherings to can salsa and make applesauce. “When the cucumbers were ready in the garden,” she says, “everybody made pickles.

Herman “Lee” Bonner and Candice Hager sit outside one of the houses in the Well House neighborhood.

“This isn’t a permanent solution. Someday we’d like our own place. But it’s a step up from where we were. We’re so grateful for this place. They support us and encourage us.” — Candice Hager

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Reggie Miller, a former Well House resident, volunteered to grill chicken for the Well House Harvest Festival in September. Maintenance supervisor Aaron Rewa, a Well House employee, works on refurbishing a house. Below, Larry Barnes and Mario Horsley, residents of Well House, work in the Well House garden.

“Our number one goal is improving peoples’ health. We want to keep people from dying on the street. It’s so traumatic not to have a place to live. The pure stress of it is so harmful to your health.” — Tami VandenBerg

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“This isn’t a permanent solution,” Hager says. “Someday we’d like our own place. But it’s a step up from where we were. We’re so grateful for this place. They support us and encourage us.” And as long as they pay the $350 per month rent for a two-person room ($250 for singles) and treat the tenants and property with respect, they can stay as long as they like. Inside, in her office painted with cheerful orange walls, executive director Tami VandenBerg tells how Well House is different than other housing programs in town. “There are all kinds of fantastic organizations out there doing great work, so we’re very, very strategic in filling gaps,” she says. It’s pretty simple: The more barriers you have to finding housing, the better shot you have at a room at Well House. “A typical property manager says, ‘Who is the best applicant?’ We look at people who are consistently left out of housing opportunities.” Good luck finding housing if you have a felony on your record, VandenBerg says. But Well House will take you. The only exceptions are criminal sexual conduct and arson. “Other programs say, ‘Get all your things in order and then you can have housing — work on your addiction, get a job,’ VandenBerg says. “Meanwhile, you’re carrying everything you own in a backpack, you’re getting beat up, people are stealing your stuff. And you’re supposed to try to stop doing the one thing that makes you feel better? “We really overcomplicate homelessness,” she says. “People need an affordable place to live.” “This whole model really makes sense,” says Roberta King, board chair of Well House. “If you provide somebody with stable housing, an anchor and a rock in life, then they can take care of their other problems.” King tells of a Well House press conference last May announcing a new grant from the Kellogg Foundation. After the formal presentation, a sort of magic happened, she recalls. “The residents started engaging with all the reporters there,” King says. “They said, ‘Let me show you my room.’ ‘Let me tell you my story.’ They were proud. They had something to show. Six months before, they had nothing to show.” The three houses on Cass Avenue that make up Well House are currently at capacity with 15 tenants. There’s a waiting list of about 100 people. Two more houses

are being refurbished, and VandenBerg has funding to buy two more. It’s called Well House for a reason. “Our number one goal is improving peoples’ health,” VandenBerg says. “We want to keep people from dying on the street. It’s so traumatic not to have a place to live. The pure stress of it is so harmful to your health. “Suddenly, they can sit down and lock

“This whole model really makes sense. If you provide somebody with stable housing, an anchor and a rock in life, then they can take care of their other problems.” — Roberta King their door. They have their stuff. They have our staff, who ask, ‘What do you need? A counselor? A job?’” Some work 10 hours a week in the Well House garden or fixing up the next Well House houses, earning $10 an hour. Well House has a long and quirky history at the corner of Cass and Pleasant, housing 5,000 people over the years. Founder Marian Clements bought the 1879-era home at 600 Cass Ave. in 1977 and opened it to others in need of comfort and protection. Clements lived without electricity, repairing her home with recycled materials and heating it with a wood furnace. She showered in her greenhouse, composted, kept goats for milk and cheese and maintained a big garden. By 1991, the Well House community expanded with the purchase of a second house, and in 1992, the city of Grand Rapids donated a third house to the cause. Clements received national recognition for her mission in 1994. But two years later, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, which she fought for a year before dying. Friends and other activists stepped in until VandenBerg took the helm of the struggling nonprofit last year. “It was because of Marian that I wanted

to see if I could save this place,” VandenBerg says. “Marian left an incredible legacy. She had her own struggles. She had some mental health issues. She didn’t ft in. But she saw everybody as equals.” That’s the Well House philosophy, she says. “It’s a place where everybody feels valued,” VandenBerg says. “People care if you’re alive or dead.” As she talks, the kitchen table is laden with donated artisan bread from Nourish Organic Market. Piles of eggplant, lettuce, radishes and parsley were just picked from the gardens. An activity coordinator plans movie nights, bingo, barbecues, food-canning classes and ice cream socials. “At the end of the day, we just want to feel good,” VandenBerg says. “People who are homeless have been beaten down. We build them up.” VandenBerg, 38, is a Calvin College graduate well known in town for owning The Meanwhile and The Pyramid Scheme bars with her brother, Jeff VandenBerg. She has the tenacity of a business owner and the toughness of a former roller derby queen. She has tattoos and some of the most enviable hair in town. But her background is in helping people. She’s worked with people struggling with mental illness, including a stint as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer. She worked for the Salvation Army Homeless Assistance Program and was involved in Kent County’s Coalition to End Homelessness. VandenBerg spent three years on the board of Well House before taking over as executive director. Within five months, she had raised more than $330,000 for the organization — enough to not only keep it open, but also to purchase four additional houses. The other day, she was talking to her father about Well House. If the place is so great, he asked her, what motivates people to move on? She smiles. “That’s the great thing. They don’t have to.” GR

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Atmosphere rules at Blue Water

Appetizers include Blu Bar Egg Rolls made with blackened steak and blue cheese and a roasted red pepper dipping sauce.

There is nothing like a body of water to draw a crowd, even if it’s a gravel pit turned man-made lake. Blue Water Grill, one of The Gilmore Collection’s popular eateries, offers a view of Versluis Lake that draws summer crowds to the outdoor decks and bars. In the winter months, guests can enjoy the scenery through large glass walls while dining in the cozy atmosphere enhanced by glass-enclosed fireplaces. We’re always glad to find a restaurant open on a Sunday evening, particularly after weekend travels. Blue Water even accommodates with a Sunday early evening “happy hour,” a real rarity. On one such Sunday evening, a few friends gathered to catch up over an evening meal. The restaurant’s menu includes an eclectic mix of Italian, Mediterranean and classic American dishes, including a wide variety of wood-fired pizzas. We began with the baked crab dip ($9.50) appetizer (though we love, love that whitefish dip), made with a blend of cheeses and roasted red peppers (a theme here) and served with crudités and crackers. The restaurant not

only offers several gluten-free selections, wait staff also offered to bring corn chips instead of crackers for our gluten-free guest. The taste was pleasing with adequate amounts of crab and peppers. The carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and pea pods were fresh but seemed to have lost some of their crunch. Blue Water is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, and in October offered a special menu of 10 house-picked selections for $10 each. We selected from the anniversary menu. Salads are a la carte and two of us ordered what could be considered dinner salads rather than side salads. One guest devoured every crumble of the Superfood Salad ($11) with beautiful spinach leaves topped with red onions, bleu cheese, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, pepitas, sunflower seeds and cranberries, well tossed with an onion vinaigrette. Another ordered the Caesar salad ($7). The fresh romaine was so heavily doused with grated Romano, the server was summoned to replace it. What had been well-paced service became more rushed as the restaurant slowly filled,

Photography by Michael Buck

In the winter months, guests can enjoy the scenery through large glass walls while dining in the cozy atmosphere enhanced by glass-enclosed fireplaces.

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dining review Blue Water Grill Address: 5180 Northland Drive Phone: 363-5900 Website: thegilmorecollection. com/bluewater

PhotograPhy by Michael buck

Dining ratings: and our entrees were served moments after the salads. The mahi was dry, most likely due to it having been frozen; the grill marks were barely noticeable. The peach mango served alongside was thereby welcome, but it was flavored more by cinnamon and raisins than peaches. Our guest who ordered the eight-ounce prime rib was quite pleased with the entire meal. Her medium-rare prime was served exactly as ordered, in a flavorful au jus with horseradish sauce at the side. She also was a fan of the mashed garlic potatoes and pleased with the vegetable side of broccoli and cauliflower. Another of our group ordered the lobster club sandwich, but was disappointed that it was prepared much the same as the crab appetizer and included few lumps of lobster. It was served on fresh ciabatta bread with lettuce, bacon and tomato. He selected sweet potato fries as the side accompaniment and was pleased with that choice. On a second visit we tried the Butternut Squash Ravioli, another $10 anniversary special. This was also a disappointment. The pasta was thick and the filling tasted more like pumpkin pie than savory squash. It might have been saved by the topping — a mix of kale, leeks, fennel sausage and sweet onion — but it was bitter and the sausage had little taste. Blue Water enjoys the talents of a pastry

chef who rotates among the Gilmore properties. For dessert, we shared a wonderful homemade cheesecake ($6) served atop a raspberry gelée, with blackberries and raspberries alongside. Chocolate torte ($6) was equally impressive, served atop the same sauce and with the berries. With these we selected glasses of Gilmore’s private label “Father’s Selection” merlot ($6) and the St. Michele cabernet ($8). Both were satisfying to the individuals who made the order, but the St. Michele was given extra points for its nose and flavor. Our third companion ordered a Spanish coffee ($7), the perfect aperitif to accompany the cheesecake. He considered it an expert mix of rum, Kahlua and coffee with a crystallized rim of sugar and cinnamon. The manager paid us a surprise visit, agreeing with our assessment of the mahi. He reimbursed the price of the entrée and offered further to purchase a drink. — irA CrAAVen

Category: New American Food: ** Service: *** Beverages: ** Atmosphere: **** Price: $$ > must try: Enjoy the fun atmosphere and live music. > not so much: Food quality tends to be inconsistent.

guide to ratings: **** *** ** *

Exceptional Above Average Satisfactory Poor

¢ $ $$

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

(Prices based on average entrée.)

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

dining listings

A guide to restaurants in Grand Rapids and beyond

Cygnus 27 — Stylized décor reflects a celestial theme that matches the views from the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza. Seasonally driven menu encourages sharing. Open Tue-Sat eves; Sun brunch Labor Day to Mother’s Day. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 7766425. amwaygrand.com. D $$ Electric Cheetah — Eclectic menu changes weekly with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations in urban setting. Unique Sunday brunch. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electriccheetah.com. L, D ¢-$ Gilly’s At The B.O.B. — Hand-crafted microbrews are paired with seasonal, cutting-edge fare. Tavern small plates, oysters, seafood and more. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. $-$$ thebob.com. L (Sat), D

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 73).

New American Upscale, contemporary cooking including ethnic twists on familiar standbys. Bar Divani — Wine flights, large array of spirits; classy surroundings. European-inspired food with plates meant for sharing, flatbreads, sushi and a variety of entrées. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 774-9463. bardivani.com. L, D $-$$ Bistro Bella Vita — Big-city casual; fresh French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. 44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobellavita.com. L, D $-$$ Bistro Chloe Élan — Diverse menu features American cuisine with French, Asian and southwestern influences, as well as soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Sat dinner only; closed Sun. 445 Ada Dr, Ada, 432-3345. chloeelan.com. L, D $-$$

-Blue Water Grill — Wood-burning rotisserie and wood-fired pizza oven allow for inspired dishes from fresh seafood to beef. Nice wine selection and The B.O.B.’s microbrews. Lakeside views, outdoor patio with fireplace, full-service bar. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection.com/ bluewater.php. L, D $-$$

Brewery Vivant — House-made beer and food in the style of traditional French and Belgian country dishes. The East Hills pub/ brewery is housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes are made with ingredients sourced from local farmers and purveyors. Open daily. 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. L, D $-$$ _ Citysen Lounge — Limited but tantalizing selection of soup, salads, sandwiches and sharable small-plate creations. Happy Hour daily 4-7 pm. CityFlats Hotel, 83 Monroe Center, (866) 609-CITY. cityflatshotel.com. L, D ¢-$

Green Well Gastro Pub — Daily menu features comfort fare with a flare, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draught beers, many from area microbreweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. thegreenwell.com. L, D $-$$ Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily at 11 am. 111 Courtland Dr, Rockford, 8633300. grilloneeleven.com and Facebook. L, D $-$$ OGrove — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course meals with a tilt toward sustainable seafood. Closed Mon. 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant. com. D $$ The Heritage — GRCC culinary arts students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan fare at a reasonable cost. Menu changes weekly. Wine available with dinner. Open Tue-Fri during academic year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 2343700. grcc.edu/heritage. L, D $-$$ Marco New American Bistro — Frenchcountry-casual offers creative dinner fare and pizza with a more casual lunch menu.

Photography by Michael Buck

The kitchen crew at Reserve Wine & Food designs culinary options to match the extensive by-the-glass wine selections.

Graydon’s Crossing — English gastro pub serves Indian food with a British influence. Full bar features impressive array of specialty beers. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. $ graydonscrossing.com. L, D

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S:7.125”

a steak that’s served

S:9.875”

sizzling

gift is the perfect

Photography by Michael Buck

Grand Rapids | 616.776.6426 | Inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel | ruthschris.com

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

Full bar. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. L, D $-$$

McKay’s Downtown — Chef Michael McKay Santo uses Michigan-produced ingredients. Micro, small and large plates include rabbit, lamb, duck, fish, Bubbles & Squeak and ratatouille, along with pub grub. Downstairs bar (Prohibition) has speakeasy atmosphere. Across from Van Andel Arena. 25 Ottawa Ave. NW, 419-4493. michaelmckays. $-$$ com and Facebook. L, D Olives — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. L, D ¢-$ One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom — Eclectic menu with samplings of vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front patio. Occasional live music. Closed Sun. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. L, D ¢-$ FReserve — Wine bar with extensive bythe-glass selections and culinary options to match. Opens 11:30 Mon-Fri, 4 pm Sat, closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. $-$$ reservegr.com. L, D

Rockwell Republic — Diverse menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients from sushi to creative comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. 45 S Division Ave, 6086465 or 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. L, D $-$$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with a varied menu and a three-season porch. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. Takeout at Rose’s Express, 2224 Wealthy St SE, 458-4646. thegilmorecollection.com/roses. php. B (weekends), L, D $

vegan and gluten-free options. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrees (available after 4). Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakEZlounge.com. L, D $

with golf-course views from inside or on the deck. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, (616) 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolfclub.com. L, D ¢-$

Tavern On The Square — Tapas-style fare plus house specialties. Patio seating. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. tavernonthesq.com. ¢-$ L, D

Brandywine — Café atmosphere, with extensive breakfasts, lunches with vegetarian choices, dinner selections from Mexican to beef Wellington. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641; 2844 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-1723. brandy winegr.com. B, L, D ¢-$

FTerra GR — Eastown eatery (formerly Trillium Haven) features foods from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers and wines from small wineries around the world. 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. B (brunch Sat and Sun), L, D $-$$

Winchester — Locally sourced menu aims to reinvent bar food in reclaimed centuryold space with shuffleboard court-patio. 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com. L, D ¢-$

Classic American Restaurants and diners serving traditional dishes popular across the country. Acorn Grille At Thousand Oaks — Blend of traditional and innovative cuisine, artfully presented in handsome dining room with golf course views. Open daily in season. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr, 447-7750. thousandoaks golf.com. L, D $$ Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant — Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and desserts; dinner menu too. No alcohol. Open daily. 3561 28th St, 956-7901; 710 Leonard St NW, 4543098; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurants. com. B, L, D $

Brann’s Sizzling Steaks And Sports Grille — Famous sizzler steaks with grill items and salads, baskets, Mexican entrées and bar munchies. See website for eight locations in Greater Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, Portage and Caledonia. branns.com. L, D $ Bull’s Head Tavern — A dozen appetizers from brie to pot stickers. Dinners include warm bread and chef-selected sides. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. thebullshead $ tavern.com. L, D Cascade Roadhouse — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE (at Old 28th St), 949-1540. Facebook. L, D $-$$ Charley’s Crab — Fresh seafood from a menu that changes nightly. Located on the Grand River. Early menu (4:30-6 pm daily), Sun brunch. GR Steamer Bar has its own menu. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer. com. L, D, C $-$$ The Chop House — In the tradition of the best American chophouses with aged prime beef and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrand rapids.com. D $$

Aryana Restaurant & Bar — Comfortable dining room in the Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and fine dining selections from an extensive seasonal menu. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1770. hiarya $-$$ na.com. B, L, D

Dugan’s Pub & Grille — Casual dining with steaks, seafood, pasta and more at The Elks at the Highlands Golf Club. Adjacent Glendevon offers banquet facilities. 2715 Leonard St NW, 453-2454. dugansgr.com. L, D $-$$

Schnitz Ada Grill — Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. 597 Ada Dr, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzdeli.com. L, D ¢-$$

Bonefish Grill — Casual, white-linen dining. Seafood selections augmented by innovative sauces and toppings; also chicken, beef and pasta dishes. 1100 East Paris Ave SE, 949-7861. bonefishgrill.com. D $-$$

Fall Creek — Appetizers, gourmet pizzas and creative entrées. Closed Sun-Mon. 201 Jefferson St, Hastings, (269) 945-0100. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Six.One.Six — Innovative cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients in a cosmopolitan setting. Mixology lounge features unique cocktails. Al fresco dining on the Jdek overlooking the Grand River. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1500. ilove616.com. B, L, D $-$$

Bostwick Lake Inn — Gilmore restaurant offers steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Open daily for dinner, lunch on weekends. 8521 Belding Road, Rockford, 8747290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. php. L (weekends), D $-$$

SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual and friendly pub setting with eclectic menu that includes

Boulder Creek Restaurant — Boulder Creek Golf Club restaurant serves a varied menu

San Chez, A Tapas Bistro — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style appetizers, side dishes and entrées. Extensive wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. L, D $-$$

FireRock Grille — Country club dining plus option to cook your own filet, shrimp or ahi tuna on a 500-degree stone. Open daily. Sun brunch 10 am-2 pm. Stonewater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. fire rockgrille.com. L, D $ Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building on the river. Al fresco dining on patio. Menu ranges from comfort food to wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus

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December 2013 / Grmag.com 57

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Shop East Fulton

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Atmosphere rules at Blue Water

Appetizers include Blu Bar Egg Rolls made with blackened steak and blue cheese and a roasted red pepper dipping sauce.

There is nothing like a body of water to draw a crowd, even if it’s a man-made lake. Blue Water Grill, one of The Gilmore Collection’s popular eateries, offers a view of Versluis Lake that draws summer crowds to the outdoor decks and bars. In the winter months, guests can enjoy the scenery through large glass walls while dining in the cozy atmosphere enhanced by glass-enclosed fireplaces. We’re always glad to find a restaurant open on a Sunday evening, particularly after weekend travels. Blue Water even accommodates with a Sunday early evening “happy hour,” a real rarity. On one such Sunday evening, a few friends gathered to catch up over an evening meal. The restaurant’s menu includes an eclectic mix of Italian, Mediterranean and classic American dishes, including a wide variety of wood-fired pizzas. We began with the baked crab dip ($9.50) appetizer (though we love, love that whitefish dip), made with a blend of cheeses and roasted red peppers (a theme here) and served with crudités and crackers. The restaurant not only offers several gluten-free selections, wait

staff also offered to bring corn chips instead of crackers for our gluten-free guest. The taste was pleasing with adequate amounts of crab and peppers. The carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and pea pods were fresh but seemed to have lost some of their crunch. Blue Water is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, and in October offered a special menu of 10 house-picked selections for $10 each. We selected from the anniversary menu. Salads are a la carte and two of us ordered what could be considered dinner salads rather than side salads. One guest devoured every crumble of the Superfood Salad ($11) with beautiful spinach leaves topped with red onions, bleu cheese, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, pepitas, sunflower seeds and cranberries, well tossed with an onion vinaigrette. Another ordered the Caesar salad ($7). The fresh romaine was so heavily doused with grated Romano, the server was summoned to replace it. What had been well-paced service became more rushed as the restaurant slowly filled, and our entrees were served moments after

Photography by Michael Buck

In the winter months, guests can enjoy the scenery through large glass walls while dining in the cozy atmosphere enhanced by glass-enclosed fireplaces.

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dining review Blue Water Grill Address: 5180 Northland Drive Phone: 363-5900 Website: thegilmorecollection. com/bluewater

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Dining ratings: the salads. The mahi was dry, most likely due to it having been frozen; the grill marks were barely noticeable. The peach mango served alongside was thereby welcome, but it was flavored more by cinnamon and raisins than peaches. Our guest who ordered the eight-ounce prime rib was quite pleased with the entire meal. Her medium-rare prime was served exactly as ordered, in a flavorful au jus with horseradish sauce at the side. She also was a fan of the mashed garlic potatoes and pleased with the vegetable side of broccoli and cauliflower. Another of our group ordered the lobster club sandwich, but was disappointed that it was prepared much the same as the crab appetizer and included few lumps of lobster. It was served on fresh ciabatta bread with lettuce, bacon and tomato. He selected sweet potato fries as the side accompaniment and was pleased with that choice. On a second visit we tried the Butternut Squash Ravioli, another $10 anniversary special. This was also a disappointment. The pasta was thick and the filling tasted more like pumpkin pie than savory squash. It might have been saved by the topping — a mix of kale, leeks, fennel sausage and sweet onion — but it was bitter and the sausage had little taste. Blue Water enjoys the talents of a pastry

Category: New American Food: ** Service: *** Beverages: ** Atmosphere: **** Price: $$ > Must try: Enjoy the fun atmosphere and live music. > Not so much: Food quality tends to be inconsistent.

Guide to ratings: **** *** ** *

Exceptional Above Average Satisfactory Poor

¢ $ $$

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

(Prices based on average entrée.)

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Judson’s At The B.O.B. — Award-winning steak house offers steaks, seafood and chops. Casual atmosphere and award-winning wine list. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave $$ NW, 356-2000. thebob.com. D Kitchen 67 — Fast-casual restaurant with high-tech design serving Brann’s sizzling steaks and burgers, small plates, pasta, fish, chicken, sandwiches, salads and more. Michigan wines and craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily. 1977 East Beltline Ave. NE. kitch en67.com and Facebook. L, D ¢-$ The Landing — Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. Menu features allAmerican favorites and monthly specials. Music and dancing in the lounge. 270 Ann St NW (in Riverfront Hotel Grand Rapids at US $ 131), 363-7748. ontherivergr.com. B, L, D FLeo’s — Combines fine dining (fresh seafood is the specialty) and casual comfort. Street level in parking ramp at Ottawa and Louis. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454$-$$ 6700. leosrestaurant.com. L, D

Louis Benton Steakhouse — Premium Buckhead beef, wet- and dry-aged steaks and more. Closed Sun. Free valet parking at Ionia entrance. 35 Ionia Ave NW, 454-7455. louisbenton.com. L, D $-$$ Meadows Restaurant — GVSU’s professional and student-staffed restaurant; patio and dining room overlook golf course. Full menu offers everything from burgers to NY strip steak. Seasonal hours (during golf season). 1 W Campus Dr, Allendale. gvsu.edu/ meadows. L, D $-$$ Middle Villa Inn — Weekly prime rib specials, salad bar, casual atmosphere, occasional live bands. Banquet rooms available. Closed Mon and Wed. 4611 N Middleville Rd (M-37), Middleville, (269) 795-3640. mid dle-villa-inn.com. L, D $ Pal’s Diner — A real diner offering breakfast, lunch and dinner options all day. Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, 942-7257. palsdiner. com. B, L, D ¢

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Pearl Street Grill — Bright, airy restaurant in downtown Holiday Inn. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. Facebook. B, L, D $ Rainbow Grill — Breakfasts, homemade soup, chili, steak sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Ramona’s Table — EGR deli with madefrom-scratch soups, sandwiches, salads,

baked items and meals. Takeout and catering. Closed Sun. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 459¢-$ 8500. ramonastable.com. B, L, D

Red Jet Café — Gilmore restaurant in the former Creston Heights library. Coffee bar and menu ranging from omelets to specialty pizzas. Full bar; opens 8 am. 1431 Plainfield Ave NE, 719-5500. thegilmorecollection.com/ redjet.php. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) ¢-$

5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninn motel.com. B, L, D ¢-$

Terrace Grille At Bay Pointe Inn — Casual creative dining, martini bar and lakeside terrace. Seasonal menu emphasizes fresh, regional fare. Holiday brunches. 11456 Marsh Rd, Shelbyville, (269) 672-5202. baypointe inn.com. L, D $-$$

Reds On The River — Located on the Rogue River, Reds combines casual sophistication with Tuscan sensibilities. Closed Sun. 8 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8181. reds-live.com. L, D $-$$

Tillman’s — Chicago-style chophouse that’s been “hidden” in a warehouse district for more than 25 years. Known for steaks but something for every taste. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. tillmansrestaur $-$$ ant.com. L, D

Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266; 1820 44th St SW, 534-0704. riograndsteakhouse.com. L, $-$$ D

Timbers Inn — Menu ranges from appetizers to wild game offerings and meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Sunday omelet bar til 2 pm. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874¢-$ 5553. timbersinn.net. L, D

Rush Creek Bistro — Diverse menu in clublike surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. $ rushcreekbistro.com. L, D

Twisted Rooster — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar featuring 18 beers on tap, local beers/wines. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. twisted-rooster.com. L, D ¢-$$

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — The classic American steakhouse now in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel’s fully renovated former 1913 Room. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 774-2000. amwaygrand.com. L, D $$

Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare in a casual but handsome setting. Lunch served weekdays, dinner Mon-Sat; closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalker roadhouse.com. L, D $

Saburba — Specializes in take-out. Everchanging, diverse menu of entrees, sandwiches, soups, baked goods and coffee. Doughnuts served Sat. mornings. Catering service. Closed Sun. 7277 Thornapple River Dr, Ada, 682-5290. saburba.com and Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$ Sam’s Joint — Award-winning ribs and unique décor of antiques and memorabilia. Extensive menu includes Mexican selections; full bar. Half a dozen locations, plus a couple of banquet facilities. sams-joint.com. L, D $ Spinnaker — Menu features seafood and landlubber entrées. Sunday brunch. 4747 28th St SE (Hilton Grand Rapids Airport), 957-1111. hiltongrandrapids.com. B, L, D $-$$ Sundance Bar & Grill — Known for its Southwestern-infused American cuisine and margarita bar. 5755 28th St SE (Esplanade Plaza), 956-5644 (breakfast and lunch only on Sun); Waters Building, 141 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616. sundancegrill.com. B, L, D $ Swan Inn Restaurant — Home-cooked meals such as pot roast, Salisbury steak and meatloaf. Huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles, dinner menu.

Vegetarian Bartertown Diner — Vegetarian/vegan/raw offerings in worker-owned and -operated diner. Promotes use of fresh, local ingredients. Open daily (hours change seasonally, check website). 6 Jefferson Ave SE, 233-3219. bartertowngr.com. L, D $ Gaia Café — Totally vegetarian fare served in a cozy atmosphere. Closed Mon. No alcohol. 209 Diamond Ave SE, 454-6233. B, L ¢

Pubs & Taverns 84th Street Pub and Grille — American fare from pizzas to steaks in laidback setting, full-service bar. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr, Byron Center, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Bar Louie — Urban décor at Woodland Mall, with sandwiches, appetizers, burgers and hearty entrées. More than 20 beers, along with a nice wine selection and specialty cocktails. Outdoor seating. 3191 28th St SE, 885-9050. barlouieamerica.com. L, D $-$$ Bobarino’s At The B.O.B. — Grill on 2nd floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from December 2013 / Grmag.com 61

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

Noto’s executive chef Darrin Wilbur and pastry chefs Bill Metzger and Mary Ballone present the complete package to diners.

Master chefs work together

t Noto’s Old World Italian Restaurant, it’s all about teamwork. With 16 years in the Noto’s kitchen to his credit, Executive Chef Darrin Wilbur and his culinary crew join pastry chefs Bill Metzger and Mary Ballone to present the whole package to diners. All three are alumni of the culinary program at Grand Rapids Community College. Ballone, who has nearly eight years of service at Noto’s after 10 years of bakery experience and a stint at the now defunct Noel in Jamestown, is planning to retire to spend time with her 10 grandchildren. Metzger joined the team a year ago to work alongside Ballone, ensuring consistency. While she concentrates on baking breads and preparing pizza dough, flatbreads and crostini, Metzger concentrates on pastries and desserts. Before coming to Noto’s, he

Noto’s Old World Flourless Chocolate Cake Yield: 7 4-oz. ramekins Time: 1 hour

8 oz. bittersweet chocolate 2 oz. unsweetened chocolate 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (1¼ stick) 1¼ cup granulated sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch 3 whole eggs 4 egg yolks Preheat oven to 350 F.

Melt together chocolates and butter over a double boiler or in a microwave at 50 percent power. Whisk the sugar and cornstarch together, then slowly whisk in the eggs and egg yolks. Stir in the chocolate and butter mixture. Portion among the ramekins and bake in a water bath at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes (turn halfway through baking).

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Butter and dust with sugar the baking dishes, or line with parchment paper.

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> DArrin Wilbur, mAry bAllone AnD bill meTZger Titles: Executive Chef and Pastry Chefs

Noto’s Executive Chef Darrin Wilbur, right, joins pastry chefs Bill Metzger and Mary Ballone.

PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin

Location: Noto’s Old World Italian Dining, 6600 Old 28th St. SE

spent 15 years at Cascade Hills Country Club. At the end of the pastry chef morning shift, Wilbur takes charge of the kitchen, overseeing dinners and directing the busy banquet schedule. Together the three chefs have cooked for such celebrity chefs as Bobby Flay and the executive chef of the White House, along with politicians and out-of-staters who make pilgrimages to dine in Noto’s Wine Cellar. Wine Spectator magazine has recognized Noto’s with awards of excellence, a nod to its extensive Italian wine collection. Noto’s Wine Cellar offers a prix-fixe, chef-created dining experience in the intimate, cavern-like environs of an Old World wine cellar. Reservations are required because Wilbur shops for ingredients on the day of the dinner. He researches the history of each dish and enjoys sharing its provenance when it is presented to diners. In the kitchen, everything is made from scratch, right down to the stocks used for classic, slow-cooked entrées and the almond paste and lemon curd in desserts. All three top chefs admit that pleasing Ma

(Mary) Noto is a top priority since their most celebrated dishes are based on her recipes. “She comes in and taste-tests things to make sure they measure up,” Wilbur said. “When you see her walking down the hallway, it’s like the corporate boss is coming in to check out operations.” Among Noto’s signature dishes are the veal and Italian sausage cannelloni, hazelnut-encrusted walleye with Frangelico cream sauce, and eggplant Parmesan. “When that eggplant comes out of the oven, there’s nothing like it,” Wilbur said. “It tastes really great with fresh sourdough bread,” Ballone added. From a dessert standpoint, the tiramisu and the handmade cannoli rank among the most popular. The three chefs say the local food movement and farm-to-table trend established over the last few years have had a big impact on the industry. “Our local farmers are much smarter now,” said Metzger. “They start indoors earlier and continue later on into the fall by going back into the greenhouses and extending

the length of time an item is available. They are using hydroponics, so our lettuce is still coming fresh from the farm long after what would be considered harvest season.” The kitchen also is getting more special dietary requests. “From gluten and sodium sensitivities to nuts and oils and sweetener and sugar responsibilities, you have to be careful,” Wilbur said. “We now use more honey and maple syrup to impart that sweetness we all love.” Metzger agreed. “Allergies have really changed things the most. There is a big push for non-gluten choices. We have to find alternatives for it without going into processed, chemical-laden foods.” Both Ballone and Metzger said they enjoy the scientific aspect and precision of the baking arts. It’s not unusual to find Metzger walking around the kitchen with three timers around his neck. “Every dinner roll has to look the same and be the same size,” Ballone said. “Every dessert has to be just so and consistent with every visit. Guests expect precision.” — Julie BurCH December 2013 / grMag.coM 63

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. New lunch menu offers custom-made deli sandwiches, salads, burgers and a pizza buffet ($6.50). Full-service bar. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thegilmorecollection.com/ bobarinos.php. L, D ¢-$

B.O.B.’s Brewery At The B.O.B. — Microbrews ranging from unique to standard with a variety of small plates that go beyond standard pub fare. Open Thu (Mug Club)-Sat. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ ¢-$ bobsbrewery. html. D Bud & Stanley’s — Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Takeout available. 1701 4 Mile Rd NE, ¢-$ 361-9782. budandstanleys.com. L, D Cascade Sports Grill — Varied menu and sizable bar with 10 brew taps and extensive martini menu. Cascade Centre, 6240 28th St SE, 974-3338. Facebook. L, D $ Charlie’s Bar & Grill — Well-rounded menu features dinners ranging from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also Mexican fare, sandwiches and more. Full-service bar. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. Face¢-$ book. L, D Cheers Good Time Saloon — Popular neighborhood spot with large menu offering something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. B, L, D ¢ Corner Bar — Rockford’s spot famous for brews and chili dogs, but with extensive menu. 31 N Main St, Rockford, 866-9866. rockfordcornerbar.com. L, D ¢ Cottage Bar — Longtime favorite since 1927. Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chili and more. Closed Sun. 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. L, D ¢ Crooked Goose — Meritage Hospitality Group restaurant offers full menu of “oldschool tavern favorites.” Open daily. 355 Wilson Ave NW, Walker, 791-2362. crooked goose.com. L, D ¢-$ Derby Station — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derby station.com. L, D $ Flanagan’s — Popular downtown Irish pub. Imported beers, 20 on tap. Entrees with an Irish influence. Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr. com. L, D ¢ Founders Brewing Co. — Sip microbrew samples in the spacious taproom, serpentine bar and stage for live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches.

Covered (heated) porch. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. L, D ¢

Frankie V’s Pizzeria & Sports Bar — Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta entrées, plus burgers and Mexican. Weekday lunch buffet. Tap your own 100-ounce beer tower. 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. L, D ¢-$ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. — Serving 10 organic brews plus hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-to-table menu includes sharable plates, house-made sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees. Open daily. 1 Ionia Ave. SW, 459-7000. grbrewingcompany.com. L (Sat.-Sun. only), D ¢-$ GP Sports — Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, along with salads and sandwiches. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 774-2000. amwaygrand. com. L, D $ Grand Woods Lounge — Year-round alfresco dining complete with fireplace. Eclectic menu selections mix with upscale comfort foods. Live entertainment, pool tables, spacious bar. 77 Grandville Ave SW, 451-4300. $-$$ grandwoodslounge.com. L, D Harmony Brewing Co. — Eastown’s latest addition to the craft-brewing scene offers custom brews with a full bar, wine selections and menu of wood-fired pizzas. 1551 Lake Drive SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. L, D $ Holly’s Back Door Bar & Grill — Full menu and good selection of munchies at the bar in Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Closed Sun & Mon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. hojogr.com. B, L, D $ HopCat — Crafted brews with close to 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare from meatloaf to mussels. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677. hopcatgr. com. L (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$

tavern.com. L, D

Main Street Pub — Large-screen TVs and varied menu of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Open 11 am daily; breakfast 8 am Sun. 11240 University Parkway, Allendale, 895-1234. mainstpub.com. B ¢-$ (Sun), L, D McFadden’s Restaurant & Saloon — New York-style Irish menu includes “recreated” pub fare, contemporary and regionally inspired dishes. Transforms into nightclub late at night. Open daily. 58 Ionia Ave SW, 4549105. mcfaddensgrandrapids.com. L, D $ Mill Creek Tavern — Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, from-scratch soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. 3874 West River Dr, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr.com. L, D ¢-$ The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com, Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Mojo’s — Lively dueling piano bar and restaurant open for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat, plus late night “munchy menu.” RSVP for dinner early, show starts at 8 pm Wed-Thu, 7 pm Fri-Sat. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com. D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$ Nick Finks — Mexican fare in historic tavern, part of The Gilmore Collection. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Occasional live music, open mic nights. 3965 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-9886. thegilmore collection.com/nickfinks.php. L, 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 ¢-$

Hub’s Inn — Sandwiches, burgers, Mexican food and thin-crust pizzas. Closed Sun. 1645 Leonard St NW, 453-3571. hubsinn.com. L, D ¢

Peppino’s Ristorante Pizzeria and Sports Lounge — Sicilian-style steak and chicken, burgers, etc. Separate sports bar. 5053 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Allendale, 895-1615. Family-friendly Peppino’s Sports Lounge in downtown GR, 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444. ¢-$$ peppinospizza.com. L, D

JD Reardon’s — Restaurant and lounge in The Boardwalk offers American, Southwest, Thai and more. Banquet facilities; outdoor seating. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardons.com. B, L, D $-$$

Pub 43 — Caters to all, but is especially popular with gay crowd. Menu ranges from burgers to upscale items. Jukebox, occasional live entertainment. Open daily at 3 pm. 43 S Division Ave, 458-2205. Facebook. D ¢-$

J. Gardella’s Tavern — Massive bar is matched by gargantuan menu ranging from homemade chips to build-your-own burger. Three floors of seating. Open Sun for arena events. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellas

Rezervoir Lounge — Former Sazerac Lounge has full menu of appetizers, sandwiches and entrees, some with a Cajun flavor. Open Tue.-Sun. for lunch and dinner (opens 4 p.m. Mon) 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rez

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Shop East Fulton

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nosh & sip

Amy Ruis has traveled many of the wine countries and has passed the first step in becoming a Master Sommelier. She owns Art of the Table, a specialty food, beverage and tabletop store and co-owns Aperitivo wine, cheese and charcuterie.

We’Ve ArriVeD in that festive season when it seems anything goes. Most of us tend to indulge in a little more food and drink than we normally do — all in the name of holiday cheer. So let’s give a nod to dessert wines that can be sipped and enjoyed at the end of a holiday meal or when the big party is over. No matter what dessert wine you choose this season, a little indulgence won’t hurt. Pair, sip and savor. Sauternes or Beaumes de Venise — This delight from France usually reminds me of dried apricots and pears drizzled in honey. Relatively thick, but not cloying, these pair well with blue cheeses, salty, washed rind cheeses from France like Epoisses, or with something creamy like a tiramisu. These wines even pair

No matter what dessert wine you choose this season, a little indulgence won’t hurt. Pair, sip and savor.

Chocolates courtesy Grocer’s Daughter

nicely with a biscotti-type cookie and gelato. late harvest riesling — Dry, off-dry and sweet, these are all especially cheese-friendly wines. If you’re serving cheese as a dessert course, look for German Rieslings with Spatlese, Auslese or Beerenauslese on the label. The longer the word, the sweeter the wine! “Late harvest” also indicates the Riesling will be on the sweeter side. Pair with creamy, chalky goat cheeses or something oozy like a Camembert or Muenster — or, my favorite, some intense aged Swiss cheese like Hubaner or Hoch Ybrig. Sweeter style bubbles — Demi-Sec Champagnes or Italian Moscato d’Asti are fun sparkling wines to start or end a meal. Pair with Parmigiano-Reggiano, soft goat cheeses, or triplecreme cheese. Sherry — A less popular but very important dessert wine that comes in varying options of sweetness and intensity. Amontillado is dark and rich, while Oloroso is dry and nutty. Cream sherry is sweeter in style with Pedro Ximénez ringing in as very sweet because of its molasses-like character. All kinds of sherry pair well with cheese. No matter the style, their nutty flavor brings out the best in salty, dry cheeses like Mahon or Manchego — and by all means have some figs with it! Maybe even some Jeni’s goat cheese ice cream with figs. Port — This wine delivers those rich, sweet, dark berries reminiscent of dried fruits with hints of caramelized nuts. You can pair Port with some blue cheeses. If you want to intensify the flavors, add candied or raw nuts. Or — AMy ruiS chocolate.

PhotograPhy by Johnny Quirin

Relaxation in a glass

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

facility. Closed Mon. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park. 785-5344. amoretrattoria italiana.com. L (not Sat), D $

ing fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. fredspizza.com. L, D ¢-$

Angela’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria — Italian dinners, pizza, stromboli, subs and desserts. Lunch buffet, full-service bar. Delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 240 E Division, Sparta, (616) 887-1913. angel aspizzaandrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$

Fricano’s Pizza Restaurant — Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Also, pasta dinners with a sauce that has made its way to the retail market. Closed Sun. 5808 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, 785-5800. fricanospizza. com. D ¢-$

Big Bob’s Pizza — A neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village with wine and beer on tap, available to go. 661 Croswell SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. L, D $

Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza — Downtown pizzeria with more than 50 varieties of gourmet pizza, whole or by the slice. Beer on tap or by the bottle. Delivery available. Open daily. 15 Ionia Ave. SW, Suite 140, 356-4600. georgios gourmetpizza.com. L, D ¢-$

Bella Pizzeria — Italian dishes, sandwiches and specialty pizzas. Open daily. 3519 S. Division Ave, 452-2810. L, D ¢-$ Brick Road Pizza — Specializing in gourmet, traditional and vegan pizzas. Glutenfree crusts available on request. Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 1017 Wealthy St SE, ¢-$ 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com. L, D Chicago 7 Pizzeria — Family-owned pizzeria offers Chicago-style pies, specialty pizzas, hot dogs, burgers. 6246 28th St SE, 538¢-$ 7777. chicago7pizzeria.com. L, D Euro Bistro — European bistro fare plus wood-fired pizzas. 11 am-10 pm Mon-Fri. 4-10 pm Sat, closed Sun. 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Florentine Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Spacious location features Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thincrust pizzas. Big-screen TVs, pool tables, darts, video games, foosball. 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. L, D ¢-$

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Florentine Ristorante — Italian and American cuisine. Pizza and pasta served in the lounge until midnight; full-menu dinner 4-10 pm. Closed Sun. 3245 28th St SW, 5345419. florentineingrandville.com. L, D $ Flo’s Pizzeria Ristorante Sports Bar — Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian entrees and even Mexican entrees. Multiple big screen TVs; take-out available. Open daily. 1259 Post Drive, Belmont, 785-1001. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Franco’s Pizzeria — Spaghetti, manicotti, lasagna, stromboli plus pizza and subs with fresh ingredients. Limited seating, takeout available (delivery offered). No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. francospizzagr.com. L, D ¢-$ Fred’s Pizza And Italian Restaurant — Long-time favorite offers Italian fare, includ-

G.R.P.D. — Grand Rapids Pizza & Delivery offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas. No alcohol. Open daily, with a handful of tables for dining in. 340 State St, 742-4773. grandrapidspizza.net. L, D ¢-$ Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen — Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrees, calzones and desserts. Open daily. 2896 Knapp St NE. 608-6912. licarispizza $ kitchen.com. L, D Mangiamo — Historic mansion houses family-friendly Italian eatery. Italian fare plus steaks and seafood. Extensive wine list, evening entertainment. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 742-0600. thegilmorecollection.com/mangi amo.php. D $-$$ Marinade’s Pizza Bistro — Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. No alcohol. Catering. 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 8633300. marinadespizzabistro.com. L, D ¢ Monelli’s Italian Grill And Sports Bar — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-friendly dining room with fireplace. 5675 Byron Center Ave, Wyoming, 530-9700. monellis.com. L, D ¢-$ Noto’s Old World Italian Dining — Elegant décor and extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features light fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. D $-$$ Pietro’s Italian Ristorante — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 4523228. rcfc.com/pietros. L, D $ Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant — Sicilian and southern Italian fare using family recipes. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Weekday lunch buffet. All menu items, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Closed Sun. 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-

4280. salvatoresgr.com. L, D

¢-$

Seasonal Grille — Hastings’ Italian-themed eatery features fresh, locally sourced, creative fare in handsome surroundings. Full bar, craft cocktails, nice wine list. Open daily. 152 W State St, Hastings, (269) 948-9222. seasonalgrille.com. L, D $ Trattoria di’ Stagione — Chef Dan Chudik prepares Italian dishes from pasta to seafood utilizing locally sourced ingredients. Lunch will be offered in near future. Closed Sun. 1420 Lake Drive SE, 458-5583. trattoriadistag ione.com. D $ Tre Cugini — Innovative Italian menu, impressive wine list, fresh daily pastas and risotto specialties. Outdoor seating in mild weather. Closed Sun. 122 Monroe Center, $-$$ 235-9339. trecugini.com. L, D Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Kitchen stays open until 1:30 am for dine-in, 1 am for take-out. Open daily. 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, 891-1100; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, 249-9344. uccellos.com. L, ¢-$ D Vitale’s — Serving traditional regional dishes from family recipes since 1966. 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368 (Vitale’s Sports Lounge next door, 458-2090), takeout 458-3766. theoriginalvitales.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Of Ada — Multi-regional, upscale dishes made from scratch. Also pizza, subs and burgers. Family-friendly; microbrews to martinis in separate sports pub. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 676-5400. vitalesada.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Pizzeria — Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from original family recipes. 3868 West River Dr, Comstock Park, 784-6044; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, (no alcohol); 5380 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 530-8500. vitales.us. L, D ¢-$

Asian Including Thai and Indian fare. Akasaka Sushi — Sushi plus Korean and Japanese offerings in low-key atmosphere in Cascade Centre. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 6252 28th St SE, 977-0444. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Akita Buffet — Across from RiverTown Crossings Mall, with sushi bar, hibachi grill and Chinese buffet with set price for lunch and dinner. Serves alcohol. 3540 Rivertown Point Ct SW, 257-7777. L, D ¢-$ Angel’s Thai Café — Extensive Thai fare; December 2013 / Grmag.com 67

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menu includes a your-choice stir-fry option. Vegetarian-friendly. No alcohol. Open daily. 136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthai cafe.com. L, D ¢-$

SW, Wyoming, 531-2800. L, D

Golden Dragon — Chinese, Mandarin and Japanese cuisines with Japanese steakhouse. Full bar. 3629 Plainfield Ave NE, 363$ 1318. goldendragongr.com. L, D

Asian Palace — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each cuisine. Family owned and operated. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 825 28th St SW, 534-7770. L, ¢-$ D

Golden Gate Restaurant — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, egg rolls, sweet-and-sour dishes, with some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. L, D ¢

Bangkok Taste — Thai fare with lunch buffet. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550; 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 3565550. bangkoktaste.com. L, D ¢-$

Golden Wok — Knapp’s Corner eatery offers lunch and dinner options, including Hunanspiced dishes. Full bar. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-8880. goldenwokgrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$

Bangkok View — Thai food and Chinese fare. Lunch buffet. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1233 28th St SW, 531-8070. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Grand Lakes — A wide selection of Chinese dishes and specialties, along with daily lunch combination plates. No alcohol. Next to Breton Village D&W. Pick-up and take-out only. 1810 Breton Rd SE, 954-2500. grand lakesgrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$

Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch specials. No alcohol. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijing kitchengr.com. L, D ¢-$ Blue Ginger Asian Kitchen — Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrees, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. 5751 Byron Center Ave (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen.com. L, D ¢-$ Bombay Cuisine — Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from Northern India. Full bar. Lunch buffet Mon.-Fri. and Sun. Takeout available. 1420 Lake Dr. SE, 456-7055. bombaycuisinegr.com. L, D $ China Chef — Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ China City — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1140 Monroe ¢-$ Ave NW, 451-3688. L, D China Gourmet Buffet — Daily lunch and dinner buffets with more than 100 items. Dinner buffet served all day weekends; discount for seniors and children 10 and under. No alcohol. 2030 28th St SW, 252-1379. L, D ¢-$ Chinatown Restaurant And Japanese Steak House — Chinese and Japanese cuisine with tabletop, Benihana-style meals available. Lunch and dinner buffets. Full bar. 69 28th St SW, 452-3025. chinatowngrand rapids.com. L, D ¢-$ China Yi Wang — Chinese dishes including spicy Hunan dishes. No alcohol. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. L, D ¢-$ East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol.

Maru Sushi & Grill

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

Empire Chinese Buffet — All-you-can-eat Chinese buffet served all day. Special seafood buffet Sat-Sun. Delivery available. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirebuffet.net. ¢-$ L, D Erb Thai — Traditional Thai fare, will accommodate special diets: vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. 950 Wealthy St SE, Suite 1A, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. L, D ¢ Far-East Restaurant — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carryout and catering available. No alcohol. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. L, D $ First Wok — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Dine-in and take-out. Full bar. Three locations: 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088. firstwokgr.com. L, D $ Fuji Yama Asian Bistro — Hibachi grill tables with chef preparations, or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. letseat.at/fujiyama. L, D ¢-$

Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — PanAsian cuisine from sushi to buffet, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American dishes. No alcohol. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Ridge Shopping Center), 785-8200. letseat.at/hibachigrillsupremebuffet. L, D ¢ Hong Kong Express — Szechuan and Cantonese for dine-in or carry-out. All-you-caneat lunch buffet. No alcohol. 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. B, L, D ¢-$ Hunan — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. 1740 44th St SW, 530-3377. hunangr. com; 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunan grc.com. L, D $ India Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan in a humble atmosphere. No alcohol. Closed Tue. 3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr.com. L, D ¢-$ Jade Garden — Chinese cuisine with some American dishes. Children’s menu, large selection of tropical cocktails. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 455-8888. L, D ¢-$ Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi selections, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquet space. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$

Fortune Chef — Chinese and American fare. Opens 6 am weekdays, 8 am weekends with breakfast served all day. No alcohol. 9353 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1388. ¢-$ fortunechefcaledonia.com. B, L, D

Lai Thai Kitchen — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. Facebook, laithai kitchen.com. L, D ¢-$

Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin cuisine complemented by a Vietnamese menu. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 627 28th St

Little Bangkok — Extensive menu of Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine.

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Closed Sun. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 8083153. littlebangkokgr.com. L, D ¢-$

mandarin — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine; buffets at lunch, dinner and all day on weekends. Cocktails. Open daily. 2460 28th St SE, 530-3300. mandaringrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ maru sushi & grill — Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurestaurant. com. L, D $-$$ mikado sushi — Sushi and sashimi à la carte. Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com. L, D ¢-$ ming Ten — All-you-can-eat buffet: Japanese, Chinese, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), (616) 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ mynt Fusion bistro — Asian fare that includes Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries: blue, peanut or yellow. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 987-9307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$

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34141 GR Magazine December Greg Ad.indd 1

10/17/13 3:14 PM

ning ye — Family-owned Chinese restaurant also serves Korean fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun during winter. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888. ningye.info. L, D $ nu-Thai bistro — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, curries and noodle dishes; seafood and duck specialty plates. No alcohol. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro. com. L, D ¢-$ osaka steakhouse — Japanese cuisine, including steak, seafood, sushi. Same owners as XO Asian Cuisine. Open daily. 4977 28th St. SE, 419-4628. Facebook. L, D $ Palace of india — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11 am-3 pm. No alcohol. 526 Stocking Ave NW, 913-9000. palace ofindiarestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$

Enjoy the Show at The Hibachi Table or gather in the Bistro for the freshest and creative Sushi selections or Chinese and Thai cuisine. Mon-Thurs: 11am- 3pm, 4pm-10pm Fri & Sat: 11am-3pm, 4pm-11pm Sun: 12noon-9pm

P.F. chang’s china bistro — Upscale chain known for modern Chinese dishes from Mongolian beef to chicken lettuce wraps. Cocktails, beer and wine. Order online for takeout. The Village at Knapp’s Crossing, 2065 East Beltline Ave, 447-2060. pfcha ngs.com. L, D $ Pho soc Trang — Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. L, D ¢-$

1501 East Beltline, NE | 616-719-1859 www.fujiyamabistro.com

rak Thai bistro — Thai-fusion fare with Chinese and Japanese influences. No alcoDecember 2013 / grMag.coM 69

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

He fed: “There is much to like about this dinner but the pasta bolognese tops it all. It’s not something I would ordinarily order because it can often be too rich or greasy. This version, however, hits everything just right. The pappardelle is homemade, cooked with some tooth left and kissed with sea salt. The sauce is pork, veal, celery and onion, steeped in a soulful red wine base. There’s a spice that lifts the darker, heavier aspects — cinnamon? Chef Nick invites us into the kitchen to watch him prepare the courses. A large saucepan half-filled with the remainder of bolognese slowly simmers. I ask about the cinnamon and he smiles. ‘Yeah, I always use

hefedshefed.com

cinnamon in my bolognese.’”

Supper club bravura

— Jeremy

She fed:

Juliet and Jeremy Johnson get an invitation to a private home for a multi-course Italian dinner prepared by a local chef.

“I’m a bit of a tiramisu purist, rarely finding one I like. In my

ternut squash with pancetta

experience, most places serve

announced he was starting a

and sage, and grilled artichoke

supper club, we knew we had

hearts with golden raisins and

are crispy on the outside while

loaded with chocolate layered

to join in the fun. An invita-

pine nuts. The primi course is

creamy and comforting on the

between mushy ladyfingers.

tion-only dinner prepared by a

two handmade pastas: pap-

inside. Brussels sprouts with

So when Chef Nick announces

club member in a room over-

pardalle with a meaty bolog-

blobs of tangy goat cheese,

tiramisu for dessert, I think,

looking a beautiful backyard:

nese, and gnocchi with a rich

toasted slivered almonds

‘meh.’ I am thrilled when he

What’s not to love?

and creamy mushroom sauce.

and pickled red onions are a

proves me wrong. The lady-

Our evening is spent

Our table quickly learns the

fabulous change of pace from

fingers are delicately crisp,

enjoying an incredibly deli-

nice thing about family-style

roasted sprouts.

having been moistened but not

cious multi-course Italian-

dining is that you can have

themed meal. Dinner is served

seconds! Chicken cacciatore and

family-style, and while we

an overly sugary version that’s

We end with desserts: tira-

saturated with espresso. The

misu and handmade cannoli

marscapone cream is slightly

accompanied by coffee. Eyes

sweet, but not tooth-achingly

begin as 15 strangers sitting

Florentine-style T-bone com-

are rolling in the back of heads,

so. And there’s a light dusting

in the living room of a private

prise the secondi course. The

tummies are being patted and

of cocoa powder between the

home at two long tables, we

braised chicken is smothered

wine glasses refilled for the

layers instead of a mountain

end the evening as friends and

in a hearty tomato ragout,

final time. We say our good-

of chocolate shavings. Don’t

comrades with at least one

while the grilled steaks are

byes and vow to return to the

get me wrong, sugary choco-

thing in common — a love of

fragrant with herbs. Both

club’s next adventure. It’s been

late desserts can be divine,

food and wine.

meats are incredible, but the

a tasty and convivial evening.

We begin with antipasti, a

two contorni (veggie sides)

Follow @hefedshefed on

variety of breads served with

are a real revelation. Grilled

Twitter to #readthefeed and

two toppings: roasted but-

roasted-garlic polenta squares

follow our adventures!

but tiramisu is a disciplined, restrained dessert.” — Juliet

Photography by Johnny Quirin

When Chef Nick Natale

70 Grmag.com \ December 2013

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Annual Fall Sale and Food Drive SHOP • DONATE • SAVE

hol. 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. rakthai bistro.com. L, D ¢-$

Red Sun Buffet — All-you-can-eat international buffet: sushi, Chinese, American, Italian and Japanese selections. No alcohol. 4176 28th St SE, 940-9999. redsungrandrap ¢-$ ids.com. L, D Seoul Garden — Chinese and Korean cuisine with full bar. Banquet and catering facilities also available. Closed Sun. 3321 28th St SE, 956-1522. L, D $-$$ Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine; food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. 3005 East Beltline SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban. $-$$ com. L, D Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine, plus fusion fare. Private groups can eat in traditional Japanese tatami room. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. ¢-$$ Facebook. L, D Thai Express — Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr. com. L, D ¢ Thai Fusion — Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu for $5.99. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE (near 29th St), 301-8883. thaifusiongr.com. L, D ¢-$ Three Happiness Restaurant — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare, with daily lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. 3330 Alpine Ave NW, Target Plaza, 785-3888. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Bring in 4 Food Items & receive 20% off

regular priced items KENDALLLIGHTINGCENTER.COM GRAND RAPIDS | 616-459-8866 Mon-Wed; Fri 8:30-6 | Thurs 8:30-8 Saturday 10-2 | CLOSED Sunday

After the storm, a rainbow.

Tokyo Grill & Sushi — Japanese tatami rooms, sushi bars. Menu includes hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, plus Japanese and American beer and wine. Closed Sun. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrill sushi.com. L, D ¢-$

Photography by Johnny Quirin

Tokyo Roadhouse — Japanese (sushi) and Chinese menus, lunch specials. Order online for pickup, delivery (until 8 p.m.) or express dine-in. No alcohol. Opens daily at 11 a.m. 4095 Plainfield Ave. NE, 365-3719. tokyoroad house.com. L, D ¢-$

We’ll watch your back during the storm.

Wei Wei Palace — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. 4242 S Division Ave, 7241818. weiweipalace.com. L, D $ Wonton Express — No-frills ambience serving authentic Chinese fare from spicy Hunan and Kung-Po dishes. No alcohol. 6719 S Division Ave, 281-8816. L, D ¢-$

616.459.1171 | www.lawweathers.com

FXO Asian Cuisine — Thai, Chinese and December 2013 / Grmag.com 71

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food & drink Restaurants / PEOPLE / reviews

Vietnamese cuisine with full service bar. Vegetarian options and lunch specials MonSat. Free valet parking with $30 purchase. Will deliver. 58 Monroe Center, 235-6969. xoasiancuisine.com. L, D $-$$

Yummy Wok — Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. 4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean Le Kabob — Huge appetizer selection, soups, salads and sandwiches, large choice of Mediterranean entrees and combos. Kids menu. No alcohol. Open daily. 2923 28th St SE, 272¢-$ 4135. lekabob.com. L, D Marie Catrib’s — Middle-Eastern fare with on-site bakery, seasonal specialties and Turkish coffee. Vegetarian options. Breakfast 7 am Mon-Fri, 8 am Sat. Lunch/dinner starts 11 am weekdays, noon Sat. Closed Sun. No alcohol. 1001 Lake Dr SE, 454-4020. mariecatribs.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Mediterranean Grills — Gyros, kabobs, falafel, shwarma, hummus, kafta. All meats are halal, in accordance with Islamic requirements. Closed Sun. No alcohol. Cascade Center, 6250 28th St SE, 949-9696. L, $ D Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offering Mediterranean specialties with drivethrough, delivery and catering available. Open daily. 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 791-6660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. L, D ¢-$ Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine — Lebanese cuisine, from grape leaf appetizer and tabbouleh to shish kebob, falafel and baklava. Takeout and catering. Features Lebanese beer and wine. Closed Sun-Mon. 2228 Wealthy St SE in EGR, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. L, D ¢-$ Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, lunch and dinner combos of chicken, beef, seafood and vegetarian entrees, kabobs. No alcohol. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. L, D ¢-$ Pita House — Gyros and other Middle East specialties. No alcohol. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029; 4533 Ivanrest Ave SW, 261-4302; 134 Monroe Center NW, 233-4875. thepitahouse.net. L, D ¢ Raad’s Mediterranean Grill — East Hills eatery features all the Mediterranean favorites made fresh, including many Lebanese family recipes. Meat, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. 962 Cherry St. SE, 454-7223. Facebook. L, D $-$$

Sheshco Grill — Lebanese cuisine including appetizers, salads and soups; entrees such as shish kabob, lamb shanks, quail and sautéed meats, plus vegetarian and seafood options. No alcohol. 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill. com. L, D $ FShiraz Grille — Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, khoreshts, vegetarian options. Full bar, wine list, martinis. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgrille.com. L (Sun), D $ Zeytin — Turkish-American cuisine with extensive beer and wine lists. Takeout available. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-2222. zeytin $ turkishrestaurant.com. L, D

African Little Africa Cuisine — Humble storefront café offers hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other Ethiopian specialties. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Open daily. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. L, D ¢ Gojo Ethiopian Cuisine & Deli — Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew-like) dishes served with injerra flatbread. Carry-out. No alcohol. Tue-Fri lunch buffet, dinner 5-8 pm; Sat buffet 4-8 pm; closed Sun and Mon. 421 Norwood SE, 4593383. gojoethiopiancuisine.com. L, D $

Mexican/Latin American/ Caribbean 7 Mares — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfasts. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 3018555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$ Beltline Bar — Americanized Tex-Mex menu; wet burritos are the claim to fame. Full bar. The Big Enchilada curbside service: call in your order and have it delivered to your car. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltline bar.com. L, D $ Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare with full bar, take-out service, vegetarian selection. Spacious with fireplaces and Mexican décor. 1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. L, D ¢-$ Café San Juan — Puerto Rican, Mexican and Cuban. No alcohol. 3549 Burlingame Ave SW, 530-2293. B, L, D ¢-$

Ave SE, 949-9120. L, D

Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Lunch specials. No alcohol. Open until 2 am Fri-Sat, closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233-4141. chezolga.com. L, D ¢ Cinco De Mayo — Mexican eatery offers the usual fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. 123 Courtland St, Rockford, 866-3438; $ 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2404. L, D Donk’s Mexican Joint — Tex-Mex selections including wet and dry burritos. Kids menu, drive-thru available. 820 Michigan St. NE, 419-3554. donksjoint.com. L, D ¢ Downtown Trini’s — Sparta destination offers traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun and Mon. 148 E Division Ave, Sparta, 887-2500. downtowntrinis.com. L, D ¢-$ El Arriero — Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, with à la carte selections for smaller appetites. Mexican and domestic beers, Margaritas. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. L, D ¢-$ El Barrio Mexican Grill — Tasty and creative twists on otherwise-traditional Mexican. Full bar. 545 Michigan St NE, 301-0010. elbar riomexicangrill.com. L, D ¢-$ El Burrito Loco — More than 70 authentic Mexican selections. Complimentary chips and salsa. Full bar. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-0415; 4499 Ivanrest SW, 530-9470; 4174 Alpine Ave NW, 785-4102. elburritolocores aurant.com. L, D ¢-$ FEl Granjero — Mexican fare, from steak and shrimp dishes to à la carte selections and menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. ¢ elgranjerogr.com. B, L, D El Sombrero — Offers the wet burrito, and dry ones too. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. el sombrerorestaurantmi.com. L, D ¢ Grand Villa Dungeon — Mexican food is the specialty. Full bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 534-8435. villadungeon.com. L, D $ Jamaican Dave’s — Jerked, fricasseed or curried chicken; curry goat, oxtail, beef and chicken patties; jerked wings; salt fish and “escoveitched” fish; tofu-with-veggies. Limited seating; takeout is best bet. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 458-7875. jamaicandaves.com. L, D ¢

Cancun Restaurant — Neighborhood eatery specializes in Mexican seafood dishes but offers a full range of fare. 1518 Grandville Ave SW, 248-2824. L, D ¢-$

Las Cazuelas — Open for breakfast at 10 am. Genuine Hispanic flavors. 411 Wilson Ave NW, Walker, 726-6600. B, L, D ¢

Cantina — Extensive menu of Mexican specialties with full-service bar. 2770 East Paris

La Huasteca — Homemade recipes. All items can be accommodated for vegetarians.

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Mostly take-out with a small dining room. No alcohol. Open daily. 1811 Plainfield Ave. NE, 447-7733. Facebook. L, D ¢

La Taqueria San Jose — Authentic Mexican fare, including tacos stuffed with such options as goat, chicken, pork and cactus in a very casual, take-out setting. 1338 S Division Ave, 284-2297. L, D ¢ Lindo Mexico Restaurant — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Happy hour 2-6 pm. Kids menu. 1292 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2280. lindomexicorestaurant.com. L, ¢-$ D Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. ¢ 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. B, L, D Michoacan — Mexican fare plus seafood, chicken and steak dishes. No alcohol. Open at 9 am. 334 Burton St SW, 452-0018. B, L, D ¢-$ Mi Tierra Restaurant — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive through. No alcohol. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D ¢ Taco Bob’s — Fresh-Mex offerings, taco salads and the “funny taco,” a hard-shell wrapped in a soft shell. No alcohol. Open 11 am-2 pm, Mon-Fri. 250 Monroe Ave NW, ¢ 458-1533. tacobobs.com. L Tacos El Caporal — Two locations serving Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2711. B, L, D ¢

We’ll help you give the gifts she loves! Juliska · Vietri · Simon Pearce · Michael Aram Kate Spade · Hearts & Ivy · Lafco · Spartina

Dining Guide Legend Grand Rapids Magazine has created these symbols to area restaurant amenities as a service to our readers. B — Serves breakfast L — Serves lunch D — Serves dinner ¢ — Inexpensive (under $10)* $ — Moderate ($10-$20)* $$ — Expensive (Over $20)* * Prices based on average entrée. - — Reviewed in this issue — Chef Profile in this issue ➧ — New listing O — GRM’s 2012 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2012 Dining Award Winner Additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email mprimeau@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

2 21 3 W E A LT H Y S T R E E T S E • G A SL IGH T V I L L AGE • E A S T GR A N D R A PI D S M A S O N JO N E SHOM E .C OM • 616 .45 8 . 61 16

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near & far IN OUR BACK YARD / EXPLORING MICHIGAN

By Marla R. Miller | Photography by Johnny Quirin

The John Ball Park neighborhood has a history of being predominantly Polish, but today “it’s everybody.”

Front-porch friendly

hawn Melton has witnessed some unusual sights living near John Ball Park, which keeps it an interesting, lively place to live. He has watched people drive by with a mattress balanced on the roof of a car, holding it down with their hands. It’s just one example of how residents wing it — jokingly called “west-siding it,” said

Melton, who grew up in Cascade. He and his wife, Sara, fell in love with the John Ball Park neighborhood after volunteering with The Other Way Ministries years ago. “We looked all over the city and we connected with people over here,” he said. “You set down roots really quickly.” Whether up the hill or down in the val-

ley, Grand Rapids’ John Ball Park neighborhood — bounded by Bridge Street on the north, Lane Avenue on the east, O’Brien Street on the south and Covell Avenue on the west — remains one of character, history, diversity and resolve. Its mix of urban grit and cosmopolitan appeal makes it a unique place to call home, despite a geographic divide, socioeconomic differences

Jacob Schneider takes part in the Pulaski Days celebration, held annually on the first Saturday in October to honor General Casimir Pulaski, a Polish nobleman and hero of the American Revolution.

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“Our street is a street of front porches. We live underneath the brim of the hill, so the sun goes behind the hill and we have dusk for four hours. Our street is very tight-knit. We generally have a pretty lively street life. We like to have backyard barbeques with the neighbors.” — Peter Carlberg and changing demographics. A variety of immigrant groups settled in the area to work in the gypsum mines in the late 1800s, and later for jobs with the railroad, lumber industry and at local furniture factories. It’s always been common to hear more than one language spoken on the street, although the languages may have changed over from Polish and Italian to Spanish and English. Longtime residents describe it as a working-class neighborhood where you can visit the local butcher, barber or market and be called by name, greeting friends and neighbors along the way. “It’s a very diverse place,” said Peter Carlberg, president of the John Ball Park Neighborhood Association. “I like that melting pot. The area south of Fulton was heavily settled by Polish. It was quite mixed north of Fulton, with Christian Reformed, a lot of German, Italians, Irish and plenty of other European groups. The

John Ball Zoo Home to the city’s first and largest park, John Ball Park is the neighborhood’s central landmark. John Ball, an early pioneer who helped settle the Grand River Valley, deeded the land to the city in the late 1800s. It originally featured formal gardens and manmade water features. Today, the pastoral style includes expansive green space with fountains and water elements intended to calm the mind and serve as an escape from city life. The park includes more than 100 acres with many attractions, including John Ball Zoological Garden, a band shell, picnic pavilion, hiking trails, playground and sports fields. “It is an asset to this area,” said Andy McIntyre, zoo director. “There’s a lot of tradition, and we want to honor that.” The zoo has more than 1,100 animals, plus a Funicular tram and a zipline. Tigers will debut next summer in the Idema Forest Realm. The zoo will open Dec. 7 for its Christmas with the Animals event and will reopen March 1, 2014, for the season. Visit johnballzoosociety. org.

John Ball Zoological Garden is situated on the ravines and bluffs along the west edge of John Ball Park. December 2013 / Grmag.com 75

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near & far IN OUR BACK YARD / EXPLORING MICHIGAN

Grand Rapids’ John Ball Park neighborhood ... remains one of character, history, diversity and resolve. Its mix of urban grit and cosmopolitan appeal makes it a unique place to call home, despite a geographic divide, socioeconomic differences and changing demographics.

Sara and Shawn Melton play soccer with their sons Canaan and Isaac in John Ball Park.

west side is the least segregated part of the city.” Today, Hispanic immigrants and transient college students live on porch-lined streets alongside young professionals, families with children and longtime homeowners. On some blocks, Polish widows still live in the only home they have ever known. The neighborhood features a mixture of architectural styles — Craftsman, American Bungalow and Victorian, among others. Many houses date to the early 1900s, especially down in the valley and in the blocks beyond the park. The park itself has been the community anchor for more than 100 years. Houses from the ’50s and ’60s are scattered among the older homes. Many were built after an area of Walker Township was annexed to the city in 1959, said Ed Kettle, who lives up the hill near the neighborhood’s western border of Covell Avenue. “It’s just got enormous history,” he said of the neighborhood. “It’s always been the working class side of the city. It’s a little gritty; it has a little bit of an attitude. It still has a great community feel — it’s just a different kind of community.”

Interstate 196 and the large bluffs behind the park and zoo somewhat split the neighborhood by home styles and income levels, said Kettle. Old-timers jokingly refer to the area up the hill as “Polish Hollywood” and the area down in the valley as “Kielbasa Valley,” said Carlberg, a businessman and photographer who has lived on the west side since 1978 and on Richards Avenue for 20 years. “Our street is a street of front porches,” he said. “We live underneath the brim of the hill, so the sun goes behind the hill and we have dusk for four hours. Our street is very tight-knit. We generally have a pretty lively street life. We like to have backyard barbeques with the neighbors.” Even though many second- and thirdgeneration Polish descendants have moved to the suburbs, they still return every year to celebrate their culture. Pulaski Day takes place the first Saturday in October and includes a parade down Fulton and traditional food and festivities to honor General Casimir Pulaski, a Polish nobleman and hero of the American Revolution. “It’s unlike any ethnic group in Grand Rapids,” said Eddie Sypniewski, a longtime west-sider who has been involved with Pulaski Days for more than 30 years. Kettle said neighborhood churches “defined the west side in a lot of ways. All the halls and aid societies were there to help the residents who couldn’t speak English.” Established in the late 1800s on Park Street, Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church is a neighborhood landmark. It was founded by a loyal base of Polish parishioners and operates one of the few Catholic elementary schools — Sacred Heart Academy — still open in Grand Rapids. Beyond growing up good Catholics, residents can be counted on to watch out for their neighbors and pay attention to what’s going on.

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A walkable neighborhood Residents of John Ball Park characterize the area as safe, walkable and spirited. “When we were growing up, I was all over the place,” said Donna Lamancusa, co-owner of Nawara Brothers Home Store, which her father and his brothers opened on West Fulton Street in 1948. “You could ride your bike all over the place. You grew up street smart. My Dad taught us right.” She attributes the family’s business success to those ethics — even in an era of big box stores and suburbia shopping. The store includes a small hardware section, appliances, and home bedding and décor. “It’s still an old-time hardware store. People say, ‘Don’t change it.’”

Above: Bartender Kevin McKenney talks with customers at Putt Putt’s Bar, where the motto is, “You’re only a stranger once.” At right: Tom Lamancusa, grandson of the original owner of Nawara Brothers Home Store, helps west-siders Thelma and John Brackney shop for appliances.

“Police tell us it has one of the lowest crime rates but one of the highest rates of calls per service,” Carlberg said. “We don’t get a lot of crime because someone will report it.” Jon O’Connor lived in the John Ball Park neighborhood during college and bought a house on Leyden Avenue in 2005. He has since moved to another west-side neighborhood, but still owns two houses on Leyden about two blocks from the park. “Having been involved in the neighborhood, I like the spirit of the west side,” he said. Home values took a hit during the recession and investors scooped up foreclosed properties to renovate into multiunit rentals, but demand has picked up and home prices have rebounded some-

what, O’Connor said. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown, its affordability and walkability make it popular with young people, he said. A real estate appraiser and Grand Rapids Public Schools board member, he also has been active in the area-specific plan that guides future growth and development from Grand Valley State University’s downtown campus to the zoo area. It’s an area that mixes residential with pockets of industry and business districts, especially along West Fulton Street, where longtime businesses include Ball Park Floral, Putt Putt’s Bar, Nawara Brothers Home Store and Ted’s Service Center. The neighborhood’s southern border also encompasses the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. plant on Butterworth Street.

Putt Putt’s Bar is one of the neighborhood’s oldest watering holes, and the current owners, Charlie and Pat Fischer, have operated it for 26 years. The Fischers grew up in the area and made the business a family affair, with their eight children working there during their college years. “We try to keep it neighborhood friendly and family friendly,” Charlie Fischer said. “This place’s motto is, ‘You’re only a stranger once.’” The college students bring in a younger crowd, but it’s good for the neighborhood, he said. “It’s not a problem. It’s a great thing to have down here,” he said. “It’s been a predominantly Polish neighborhood, but now it’s everybody. We embrace that.” GR

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

Special events and music Dec. 31 Swingin’ New Year’s Eve and Hot-FM New Year’s Eve Celebration: Head downtown to say farewell to 2013. GR Symphony will be joined by vocalists and dancers to offer tunes from the heyday of swing to the musical stylings of Linda Ronstadt and Michael Bublé at DeVos Performance Hall. Then ring in 2014 at the 6th annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop presented by Cumulus Media. Listen to local and national acts and watch the ball drop over Rosa Parks Circle at midnight.

december events Sports Dec. 1 Ugly Sweater Run: This unique holiday event will have runners and walkers participating in a 5K through downtown Grand Rapids wearing the tackiest sweaters they can find. It’s all for a good cause with donations going to Toys for Tots. Awards will be given for best real and fake mustaches, best beard, and worst and best sweater. theuglysweaterrun.com. Special events Dec. 7 Home for the Holidays Adoption Sale: Help the Humane Society of West Michigan find forever homes for shelter animals at this event featuring special adoption prices (and lots of cute, four-legged friends!). hswestmi.org.

Don’t forget to mark your calendar!

Dec. 5 - Diego Garcia: ArgentineAmerican singer will perform with special guest Diane Coffee, presented by Calvin College and WYCE. See Music

Dec. 3-5 GRAMStudio

Workshop: Learn The Art of Landscape Painting at Grand Rapids Art Museum. artmuseumgr. org, click on Learning. See Lectures & Workshops Dec. 13-22 - “The Nutcracker”: GR Ballet Company presents

the timeless holiday classic with music performed by GR Symphony. grballet. com. See Stage

Dec. 15 - The Whoville 5K: Third annual holiday run includes a 5K run/walk and kids fun run at Riverside Park.

Photography courtesy The Ugly Sweater Run (top); thinkstock (right & bottom)

A few Great things to do this month!

whoville5k.com. See Sports

Dec. 27 - Night at Your Museum: Inspired by the movie, guests tour all three floors of the Public Museum as exhibit characters come to life. Dinner buffet, souvenir

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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, e-mail 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 15th of the month.

Special eVeNtS thru Dec. 14 - holiday kerstmarkt: Openair European Christmas Market with gifts and Dutch treats. See website for hours. 150 W. Eighth St., Holland. kerstmarkt.wordpre ss.com/about.

Dec. 6 - egr tree lighting: Annual celebration includes Santa visits and photos, live reindeer, bonfire and carriage rides. 6:30 p.m. Regatta Plaza, East Grand Rapids. east gr.org.

thru Dec. 21 - Sleigh bells and holly: LowellArts presents juried market of fine arts and holiday gifts from more than 30 artists. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tue.-Sat. 149 S. Hudson St., Lowell. lowellartsmi.org.

Dec. 6 - gram tree lighting: Grand Rapids Art Museum celebrates the season with its annual tree lighting (see below for ice rink opening). 5:30 p.m. 101 Monroe Center, downtown GR.

thru Jan. 4 - Nite lites: Drive-thru Christmas light show has two miles of animated displays, plus Santa’s House (photos with Santa) and Santa sleigh ride. Open nightly 6-10 p.m. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE. $12/car. facebook.com/Nite LitesShow.

Dec. 6-7 - uica holiday artists market: One-of-a-kind works by regional artists, plus snacks, drinks and children’s workshop. 5-9 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat. UICA, 2 W. Fulton St. uica.org.

Dec. 5 - meijer gardens holiday gala: Includes access to Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World exhibit, horsedrawn carriage rides, dancing, strolling dinner and roaming holiday entertainment. 7 p.m. Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. $150 (975-3168 or meijergardens.org). PHOTOGRAPHy by JOHnny quiRin

PHOTOGRAPHy cOuRTEsy THE uGly sWEATER Run (TOP); THinksTOck (RiGHT & bOTTOm)

Dec. 3 - parade of lights: Santa arrives in downtown Holland escorted by bands, floats and people decked in holiday lights. 6:30 p.m. Begins at Eighth St. and Columbia Ave. and ends at Holiday Kerstmarkt. downtown holland.com.

Dec. 5 - uptown holiday Shop hop: Stores in East Hills, Eastown and on E. Fulton and Wealthy streets offer shopping deals, with free trolley between neighborhoods. 4-9 p.m. facebook.com/uptowngr. Dec. 6 - coopersville Nighttime christmas parade: Floats travel along Main St. Facepainting, rides on the Coopersville & Marne Railway shuttle and Santa visits. 7 p.m. flashlight and honorary security guard badge included. grmuseum.org. See Special Events

thru JaN. 4 - Nite liteS: Drivethru Christmas light show has two miles of animated displays,

photos with Santa and a Santa sleigh ride. Fifth Third Ballpark. facebook. com/NiteLitesShow. See Special Events

Dec. 6-15 - Santa’s Shoppe: Visit Santa at Home & Co. in downtown Holland for photos and candy canes. 190 S. River Ave. Times vary: see myhomeandcompany.com. Free. Dec. 6-march - ice Skating at rosa parks circle: Outdoor ice skating in downtown GR. Hours and info: facebook.com/pages/RosaParks-Circle-Ice-Rink/107365369383484. Dec. 6, 10, 14, 17 - bob cratchit Dinners: Women’s City Club hosts a seven-course holiday dinner with entertainment by high school choirs. 6 p.m. social hour, 7 p.m. dinner. 254 E. Fulton St. $37 (reservations required: 459-3321). Dec. 7 - breakfast with Santa/christmas for the animals: Join Santa at the zoo for pancakes, eggs and sausage 8:30-10 a.m. (Reservations required: 336-4326.) Then, join zookeepers from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. as they demonstrate importance of animal enrichment. Admission is free with donated item (see website for list). John Ball Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton St., 336-4300, johnballzoosociety. org.

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Required by PS Form 3526)

1. Title of publication: Grand Rapids Magazine 2. Publication number: 0997-340 3. Date of filing: September 30, 2013 4. Issue frequency: Monthly 5. Number of issues published annually: 12 6. Annual subscription price: $24.00 7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 549 Ottawa Ave. N.W., Ste. 201, Grand Rapids, MI 495031444. Contact: Scott Miller. Telephone: (616) 459-4545. 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of Publisher: Same as #7 9. Publisher: John H. Zwarensteyn, 549 Ottawa Ave. N.W., Ste. 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Editor: Carole Valade. Managing Editor: Marty Primeau. All addresses same as above. 10. Owner: Gemini Corporation; John H. Zwarensteyn, both addresses same as #7. 11. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities: none. 12. Tax status (for completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at special rates): Has not changed during the preceding 12 months. 13. Publication title: Grand Rapids Magazine 14. Issue date for circulation below: October 2013 15. Extent and nature of circulation: Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months/actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: a) Total number of copies (net press run): 15,417/15,000. b1) Paid/requested outside-county mail subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541: 1,442/1,434. b2) Paid in-county subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541: 5,006/5,147. b3) Paid distribution outside the mail including sales through dealers, carriers, street vendors, counter sales and other non-USPS paid distribution: 3,232/3,335. b4) Paid distribution by other classes of mail through USPS: 0/0. c) Total paid distribution: 9,680/9,916. Free distribution by mail: d1) Outside-county: 109/0. d2) In-county: 504/0. d3) 0/0. d4) Free distribution outside the mail: 3,966/3,945. e) Total free distribution: 4,579/3,945. f) Total distribution: 14,259/13,861. g) Copies not distributed: 1,158/1,139. h) Total: 15,417/15,000. i) Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 67.89%/71.54%. 16. Publication Statement of Ownership publication required. Will be printed in the December 2013 issue of this publication. 17. I certify that the statements made above are correct and complete (signed): Scott Miller, Circulation & Marketing Manager, 9/30/13.

December 2013 / GRmAG.cOm 79

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

Dec. 6

1/ Grand Rapids’ own The Verve Pipe with lead singer Brian Vander Ark performs at The Intersection.

comedy & nightclub venues COMPILED BY ALEXANDRA FLUEGEL

the stage Dec. 5 at Founders Brewing Co.

1/ the iNterSectioN: Dec. 6: Grand Rapids’ own Verve Pipe

performs. The band’s single “The Freshman” hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts and skyrocketed them to national acclaim. Show begins at 7 p.m., all ages welcome. $15 general admission. Tickets at Purple East, Shakedown, Vertigo Music and box office. 133 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-8232, sectionlive.com. 2/ fouNDerS breWiNg co.: Rubblebucket, a Brooklyn-based, seven-piece band, performs Dec. 5. The band’s raucous shows include rich instrumentals, plenty of hip-shaking and handmade giant robot puppets. Show begins at 9:30 p.m.; 21 and older only. Free. 235 Grandville Ave. SW, 776-2182, foundersbrewing.com.

Billy’s Lounge: Eastown bar and music venue hosts live music with emphasis on blues. 1437 Wealthy St. SE, 459-5757, billyslounge.com.

ally acclaimed stand-up comedians perform 9 p.m. Thu., 8 and 10:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat. The B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com.

The B.O.B: The Big Old Building houses several entertainment options: Crush Thu.-Sun. (Crush Is Country, live country music every Fri.); live music at Bobarino’s Tue.Sat.; Eve (Fri. and Sat.); stand-up comedy at Dr. Grins (see below). 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob. com.

J. Gardellas: Dance Club Fri. and Sat. nights on third floor feature DJ Kermit. 11 Ionia Ave. SW, 459-8824, jgardellastavern.com.

Diversions: Nightclub offers video bar, dance floor, karaoke, special events. 10 Fountain St. NW, 451-3800, diversionsnightclub.com. Dr. Grins Comedy Club: Nation-

Grand Woods Lounge: Restaurant/bar with dance floor, DJs Thu.Sat. 77 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-4300, grandwoodslounge.com. Monte’s Lounge: Drink specials and dancing every Fri. and Sat. 438 Bridge St. NW, 774-5969, monteslou nge.com. Mulligan’s Pub: Bar and music venue in Eastown. No cover charge.

1518 Wealthy St. SE, 451-0775, mullig ans-pub.com.

Calvin box office, 526-6282, or at door.

The Orbit Room: Club venue hosts regional and national music acts, occasional stand-up comedy. Multiple bars. Open floor, seated balcony. 2525 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 942-1328, orbitroom.com.

Rocky’s Bar & Grill: Dancing every Fri. featuring DJs and live acts. 633 Ottawa Ave. NW, 356-2346, rockysbarngrill.com.

The Pyramid Scheme: Heartside pub and live music venue. Tickets: fusionshows.com, Vertigo Music and Pyramid Scheme front bar. 68 Commerce Ave. SW, 272-3758, pyramid schemebar.com. River City Improv: Comedy team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. Calvin College Gezon Auditorium, 3201 Burton St. SE. Tickets at rivercityimprov.com or

Stella’s Whisky Lounge: Retro Dance Party with DJ Todd Ernst every Sat. 53 Commerce Ave. SW, 7424444, stellasgr.com. Sunday Night Funnies: Midwest comics perform 8:30 p.m. Sun. Riverfront Hotel’s Landing Lounge, 270 Ann St. NW, Facebook. Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill: Live acts, including comedy (2nd and 4th Tue.) and music. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook.

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Dec. 7 - chicago chic fashion Show: Felt Mansion hosts fashion show of designs from The Cindy Hogg Collection from the 1920s to present, then designer gowns and classic wear from Chicago designer Borris Powell. Includes lunch and meet-and-greet. Noon. 6597 138th St., Holland. $49 (335-8982 or feltmansion.org). Dec. 7 - children’s Nutcracker tea: The Sugar Plum Fairy and Nutcracker perform a mini-ballet while guests enjoy tea time luncheon. Also includes story time, photo op and etiquette lesson. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Alpen Rose, 4 E. Eighth St., Holland. $35 per person. Reservations: 355-1130 or etissentials.com. Dec. 7 - home for the holidays adoption Sale: Humane Society of West Michigan features special adoption prices. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 3077 Wilson NW. hswestmi.org. Dec. 7 - Jingle bell parade: Grand Haven’s nighttime parade features lighted floats and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Parade route thru downtown ends at Central Park for tree lighting. 6 p.m. Dec. 7 - lowell christmas festivities and parade: Daytime activities include arts and crafts show, Rudolph’s workshop, Santa visits and pancake supper. 5:45 p.m. lighting of tree, 6 p.m. parade. discoverlowell.org.

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Dec. 7 - muskegon holidays in lakeside: Visits from Santa, carriage rides, carolers, community bake sale and merchant sales. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. lakesidedistrict.com. Dec. 7 - rockford Santa parade: 70th annual parade in downtown Rockford. 11 a.m.

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Dec. 7 - rogue river artisans holiday Show: More than 120 artisans sell sculpture, pottery, jewelry, photography and more. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Lowell High School, 11700 Vergennes Road. lowellholidayartshow.com. $1. Dec. 7 - West catholic holiday arts and crafts: 180 booths of handmade crafts. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. West Catholic High School, 1801 Bristol Ave. NW. $1 Dec. 7 - West michigan Winter horsefest: Horse-related products and services, education features and guests. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. DeltaPlex. westmichiganwinterhorsefest.com. $5. Dec. 7 - Wyoming-kentwood Santa parade: Bands, mascots, floats and Santa. 10 a.m. S. Division at 34th St., south to Brann’s. Dec. 9-14 - feel the Zeel of giving: Downtown Zeeland hosts holiday events 5:30-8 p.m., including carriage rides, reindeer, pictures with Santa and more. feelthezeel.com.

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

Dec. 11-21 - Santa on the Lowell Showboat: Visit with Santa and tour the decorated showboat, with hot cocoa and cookies. 5:30-7 p.m. Dec. 11 and Dec. 18; 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 14 and Dec. 21. Riverwalk Plaza along Flat River, Lowell. discoverlowell.org. Dec. 13 - A Nite of Christmas Cheer: Visits with Santa, hot cocoa and cookies, free photos, horse and carriage rides, holiday music, reindeer, ice sculpture carving, roasted chestnuts and hot dogs. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Riverwalk Plaza, downtown Lowell. $1 suggested donation. discoverlowell.org.

you can believe in majic If you want to get to the soul of a community, listen to its music. That’s why Bethlehem Lutheran Church created the Musical Arts for Justice in the Community concert series six years ago. “Music and community have been key to Bethlehem Church’s mission,” said music director Sheryl Iott. “We’re always looking for ways to create a sense of community. Supporting local artists coming together for concerts has been a great way to do that.” The church, 250 Commerce Ave., also uses the seven monthly concerts to give back to its Heartside neighborhood. It funds the concerts so any donations at the events are filtered into community programs. “About 80 percent of the money we raise goes directly to the Heart of West Michigan United Way, which supports the Heartside neighborhood,” Iott said. “The other 20 percent goes to the Hill Music Together group, which provides local early-childhood music classes.” The concerts, featuring a variety of genres, are performed in the church’s sanctuary, followed by a meet-the-artists reception. “The sanctuary is really beautiful,” Iott said. “It’s bright, open and has great acoustics.” MAJIC concerts, which feature a wide range of musical styles, take place on the second Friday of the month at 7:30. The Dec. 13 concert is by The Hildegard Singers made up of Linn Maxwell, Barbara McCargar, Diane Penning and Lisa Walhout, all of whom have had outstanding solo careers. See bethlehemchurchgr.org/ majic-2 or on Facebook. — Dana Blinder

Dec. 13 - Up on the Rooftops Tour: Tour upper floors of homes and businesses in the historic buildings of downtown Holland decorated for the holiday season, followed by appetizers and drinks at Fifth Third Bank. 6-9:30 p.m. $20 in advance (44 W. Ninth St.). upon therooftops.com. Dec. 14 - Winterfest: Felt Mansion hosts free family fun day with Santa visits, horse-drawn carriage rides, lunch and tours. Noon-2 p.m. 6597 138th St., Holland. feltmansion.org. Dec. 15 - Clara’s Nutcracker Party: Brunch, photos with Clara and other characters, and a reading of “The Nutcracker” prior to GR Ballet’s 2 p.m. performance. University Club, Fifth Third Bank, 111 Lyon St. NW. $65 (ballet box office or Ticketmaster). grballet.com. Dec. 17 - Brookside Living Nativity: 18th annual telling of the Christmas story with actors, animals and music. 7, 7:30 and 8 p.m. Brookside CRC, 3600 Kalamazoo Ave. SE. Free. brooksidecrc.org. Dec. 27 - Night at Your Museum: Inspired by the movie, guests tour all three floors of the museum as exhibit characters come to life. Dinner buffet, souvenir flashlight and honorary security guard badge included. 6-9 p.m. GR Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. $20 (456-3977 or grmuseum.org). Dec. 28 - Winter Wonderland Party: Gymco hosts a party with an indoor snowball fight, costumed instructors, games, crafts, snacks and activities for kids 3 and up. Pre-registration recommended. 6-9 p.m. 2306 Camelot Ridge Court SE. $25. gymco.com. Dec. 31 - Hot-FM New Year’s Eve Celebration: 6th annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop presented by Cumulus Media, featuring local and national acts (TBA). Monroe between Pearl and Campau in downtown GR. Midnight ball drop over Rosa Parks Circle. Free. 1053hotfm.com. Dec. 31 - Irish New Year’s Eve Party: Fenian’s Irish Pub hosts a celebration with live

traditional Irish music. 21 or older. 7 p.m. 19683 Main St., Conklin, feniansirishpub. com. Free.

Dec. 31 - New Year’s Early Eve: Grand Rapids Children’s Museum hosts a party 6-8 p.m. with live DJ, snacks and drinks, kids activities and crystal ball countdown at 7:30 with confetti and balloons. $12, $10 members (2354726). grcm.org.

Sports Dec. - Grand Rapids Griffins: American Hockey League team, primary affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings, plays home games: Dec. 6-7 vs. Rochester Americans. Dec. 11 vs. Chicago Wolves. Dec. 13-14 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. Dec. 20 vs. Rockford IceHogs. Dec. 30-31 vs. Toronto Marlies. Times vary. Van Andel Arena. $14-$32 (Van Andel box office, Meijer or Star Tickets). griffinshockey.com. Dec. 1 - Ugly Sweater Run: Holiday 5K in downtown GR; ugly sweater attire encouraged. Donations to Toys for Tots. 11 a.m. Calder Plaza, 250 Monroe. $39. theuglysweaterrun. com. Dec. 6-8 - Gymnastics on the Grand Invitational: More than 2,000 young gymnasts compete; hosted by Grand Rapids Gymnastics. DeVos Place. $12 adults, $8 seniors and kids 7-17; weekend pass $20/$12. gymnastics onthegrand.com. Dec. 15 - The Whoville 5K: Third annual holiday run includes 5K run/walk and kids fun run. 10 a.m. Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave. NW. $35 5K, $10 kids run. whoville5k.com.

Stage & Film Thru Dec. 14 - “It’s a Wonderful Life”: Master Arts Theatre presents the holiday favorite. 7:30 p.m. Thu.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. 75 77th St. SW. $16 adults, $14 seniors and students (455-1001 or masterarts.org). Thru Dec. 14 - “The Only Christmas Pageant in Town”: When a snowstorm prevents a Hollywood theater troupe from performing, local church members step in. 7 p.m. Holland Civic Theater, 50 W. 9th St., Holland. $8. holl andcivictheatre.org. Thru Dec. 15 - “The Sound of Music”: GR Civic Theatre presents the story of a young woman who brings music to Captain Von Trapp and his children at the dawn of WWII. 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $18$35 (222-6650 or grct.org). Dec. 5 - Real to Reel Series: Saugatuck Center for the Arts presents the film “I Am Divine.”

photography Courtesy Jason Reiffer

The Hildegard Singers

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Dec. 7 - Pop Scholars: Improv comedy team. 8 p.m. Wealthy Theater, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $7. popscholars.com.

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Dec. 8 - “The Nutcracker”: Balletmore presents a condensed version for younger kids. 2 p.m. Northview H.S. Auditorium, 4451 Hunsberger Ave. NE. $10 adults, $5 kids 10 and under. balletmore.com. Dec. 12-21 - “Venus in Fur”: Actors’ Theatre presents the story of a seductive actress auditioning for a play. 8 p.m. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $24-$26 adults, $20-$22 students (234-3946 or atgr.org). Dec. 13-21 - “The Promise”: Turning Pointe School of Dance presents a ballet telling the Christmas story with scripture and music. 7 p.m. Fri., 2 and 7 p.m. Sat. Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. 8th St., Holland. $17 adults, $13 students (Hope College ticket office, 395-7890); $19/$15 (at door). turningpointedance.org.

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Dec. 13-22 - “The Nutcracker”: GR Ballet Company presents the timeless holiday classic with music performed by GR Symphony. 7:30 p.m. Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $20-$54 (ballet box office or Ticketmaster). grballet.com. Dec. 26-29 - “Cirque Dreams Holidaze”: Broadway Grand Rapids presents international acrobats performing a celebration of the holiday season. See website for times. DeVos Performance Hall. $32-$72 (DeVos Place, Van Andel and BGR box offices or Ticketmaster). broadwaygrandrapids.com.

Music

photography Courtesy Jason Reiffer

Dec. 1 - “An American Experience”: Vocal Music Workshop presents a concert. 7 p.m. Meijer Theater, GR Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. Free-will offering. vocalmusicwork shop.org. Dec. 2 - Double A’Peal Concert: Aquinas Valenti Handbell Ensemble and Campana Handbell Ensemble perform. 7:30 p.m. Kretschmer Recital Hall, Aquinas College. Free. Dec. 3 - ’Tis the Season to Embellish: Embellish Handbell Ensemble holiday concert. 7:30 p.m. Mayflower Congregational Church, 2345 Robinson Road SE. $10 adults in advance (915-0134 or tickets@embellishhand bells.com), $12 at door, kids free with adult. embellishhandbells.com. Dec. 5 - Diego Garcia: Argentine-American singer with special guest Diane Coffee, presented by Calvin College and WYCE. 8 p.m. December 2013 / Grmag.com 83

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Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd. SE. $10 adults, $5 students. calvin.edu/sao/calendar.

Dec. 5-8 - Nestle Gerber Holiday Pops: GR Symphony and Symphony Chorus present beloved favorites, holiday sing-along, a visit from Santa and Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” finale. 7:30 p.m. Thu., 8 p.m. Fri., 3 and 8 p.m. Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. DeVos Performance Hall. $18-$90 (GRS and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org.

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Dec. 6-7 - Handel’s “Messiah”: Calvin Oratorio Society performs Handel’s “Messiah” with the Calvin Orchestra. 8 p.m. Calvin FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE. $20-$30 (526-6282 or calvin.edu/boxoffice).

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Dec. 6-7 - Kent Philharmonia Orchestra Children’s Concert: “The Nutcracker,” in collaboration with the Flat River Dance Company. 7:30 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $8 adults, $4 seniors and students. scmc-online.org. Dec. 6-8 - Hark Up Christmas: “Soul’d Out” contemporary Christmas show with vocal groups, dance teams, instrumental ensembles, solos. 7:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. DeVos Center for Arts and Worship, 2300 Plymouth Ave. SE. $16 adults, $9 students (harkup.com or dcaw.org), $19/$10 (at door). Dec. 7-8 - GR Women’s Chorus: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7, Winter Concert, Trinity United Methodist Church, 1100 Lake Drive SE (donations accepted). 7 p.m. Dec. 8, Power of Music, Fountain St. Church, 24 Fountain St. NE (free). grwc.org. Dec. 8 - A Service of Lessons and Carols: Aquinas College Chorus, Women’s Chorus, Chamber Choir and Valenti Handbell Ensemble. 5 p.m. St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, 1429 Wilcox Park Drive SE. Free. Dec. 8 - Sacred Sounds of St. Mark’s: Advent Lessons and Carols by St. Mark’s Choir. 5 p.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal, 134 N. Division Ave. stmarksgr.org. Free. Dec. 8 - Service of Lessons and Carols: Calvin College Women’s Chorale and Campus Choir lead services of songs, hymns and readings. 3 and 6 p.m. LaGrave Ave. Christian Reformed Church, 107 LaGrave Ave. SE. Freewill offering. Dec. 8, 15 - Metropolitan Choir of Praise: Holiday concerts. 7 p.m. Meijer Gardens, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. metropolitanchoir.org. Dec. 9 - “A Very English Christmas”: GVSU presents holiday music from the British Isles. 8 p.m. Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE. gvsu.edu/fallarts. Free.

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Dec. 10 - Candlelight Cathedral Concert: GR Symphony string players and area youth choirs present sacred choral music. 7:30 p.m. Cathedral of St. Andrew, 301 Sheldon Blvd. SE. $26 (Symphony box office or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org. Dec. 10 - Monday Night Jazz: West Michigan Jazz Society presents its holiday party with music by John Shea Quartet. 6:30-10 p.m. City Flats Ballroom, 77 Monroe Center St. NW. Tickets $30-$40: wmichjazz.org. Dec. 13 - MAJIC Concert Series: Musical Arts for Justice in the Community hosts the Hildegard Singers, a women’s vocal group performing Renaissance songs. 7:30 p.m. Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave. SW. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit the Heartside neighborhood and Hill Music Together. Dec. 13-14 - “Swingin’ Holiday Celebration”: West Michigan Symphony presents holiday concert with Broadway stars Teri Dale Hansen and Nat Chandler. 7:30 p.m. Frauenthal Theater, Muskegon. $20-$50, $10 students (231-726-3231 or westmichigansym phony.com).

ern H.S. Auditorium, 2200 Pettis Ave., Ada. Free. fhacb.org.

Dec. 15 - Messiah Sing-A-Long: Holiday concert by Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids. 7 p.m. Aquinas College, Kretschmer Recital Hall. $5. chamberchoirgr.org. Dec. 15 - SCMC Holiday Concert: St. Cecilia Music Center presents a free concert by its Grand Band and Grand String Orchestra. 3 p.m. 24 Ransom Ave. NE. scmc-online.org. Dec. 15 - The Block Concert: West Michigan Symphony presents a concert by Teri Dale Hansen, soprano. 3 p.m. The Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $26 and up. (231726-3231 or westmichigansymphony.com). Dec. 15 - “The Lost Christmas Eve”: TransSiberian Orchestra presents a rock opera. 3 and 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena. $33-$73 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). Dec. 16 - “Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute”: Live renditions of Beatles’ songs. 7:30 p.m. Forest Hills FAC, 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE. $24$40 (box office, 493-8966 or Ticketmaster). fhfineartscenter.com.

Dec. 13-20 - Christmas Lessons & Carols: Grand Rapids Men & Boys Choir. 7 p.m. Dec. 13-14 and Dec. 20: Cathedral of St. Andrew, 301 Sheldon Blvd. SE. Dec. 15: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1006 Third St., Grand Haven. grcmb.com.

Dec. 17-19 - “Cirque de Noel”: GR Symphony’s SymphonicBoom concert combines seasonal music with Cirque performances. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $32 and up (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org.

Dec. 14 - Holland Symphony Orchestra: “Songs of the Season” includes light classics, carols and holiday pops. 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. Dimnent Chapel, Hope College, Holland. $19 adults and seniors, $5 students (796-6780, hollandsymphony.org).

Dec. 20-21 - Mighty Wurlitzer Concerts: Public Museum’s theater organ concerts feature Dave Wickerham. 7-9 p.m. Fri., 2-4 p.m. Sat. 272 Pearl St. NW. $10 adults, $5 children 3-17, $8/$4 members (ticket counter or 4563977).

Dec. 14 - Swingin’ Sleigh Ride: Calvin College Wind Ensemble presents a multimedia concert for kids. 3 p.m. Calvin FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE. $5, $25 family (526-6282 or calvin.edu/boxoffice).

Dec. 22 - Edelweiss Christmas Concert: Presented by Grand Rapids Edelweiss Club choir. 3:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 423 First St. NW. edelweissclubgr.com. Free.

Dec. 14-15 - Acoustic Saturday Nights: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts acoustic concerts. Dec. 14, Gemini. Dec. 15, The Bard: Jim Spalink with Fred Wilson. 8 p.m. Wealthy St. Theater, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $12 adults, $10 seniors and students, $9 members, $3 children (at door). grfolkarts.org. Dec. 15 - Christmas with the Poppas and Mommas: Schubert Male Chorus presents holiday concert. 7:30 p.m. EGR High School PAC, 2211 Lake Drive SE. $18 (752-7470 or schubertmalechorus.org). Dec. 15 - Holiday Concert: Forest Hills Adult Community Band. 2:30 p.m. Forest Hills East-

Dec. 22 - Service of Lessons and Carols: First United Methodist Church celebrates the season with choirs, handbells and dancers. 10 a.m. 227 E. Fulton St. grandrapidsfumc.org. Free. Dec. 31 - New Year’s Eve Organ Concert: Part of Central Reformed Church’s Barker Series. 8 p.m. 10 College NE. Free-will offering. Dec. 31 - Swingin’ New Year’s Eve: Tunes from the heyday of swing to the musical stylings of Linda Rondstadt and Michael Bublé, presented by GR Symphony with vocalists and dancers. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $18 and up (Symphony and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org.

Lectures & Workshops Dec. - GR Public Libraries: Programs include Ask-a-Lawyer Series, Reading the Great Lakes, Early Childhood Essentials, small business classes, author visits, computer classes, reading clubs. Kids activities include Celebrate the Holidays with Mrs. Claus; literacy classes for babies, toddlers and kids; Young Dancers; and Creative Movement. Complete schedule at Main Library, 111 Library St. NE or grpl.org. Dec. - Kent District Libraries: Programs include Craft Away the Winter Blues, book discussions, Early Childhood Essentials, career transition workshops. Kids programs include story times, Polar Express Party, Gingerbread Lane and The Reindeer are Coming. See kdl. org. Dec. 2 - Grandmother Power Lunch Series: GR Public Museum presents “World AIDS Issues” with human rights activist Jackson Kaguri. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 272 Pearl St. NW. $25, $20 members; includes lunch. grmuse um.org. Dec. 2 - GGR Chapter Mothers and More: Get to Know Bigtent. 7-9 p.m. St. Thomas Catholic Church, 1448 Grace Drive. grmothers andmore.org. Free. Dec. 2 - GR Public Museum World AIDS Day Lecture: “Can We Sustain Granny Power?” with human rights activist Jackson Kaguri. 7 p.m. Meijer Theater, GR Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. Tickets TBD. grmuse um.org. Dec. 3-5 - GRAMStudio Workshop: The Art of Landscape Painting. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center. $110, $90 members. Registration required: artmus eumgr.org, click on Learning. Dec. 5, 6, 12 - Downtown Market Classes: Dec. 5, Wintertime Comforts ($65). Dec. 6, Middle Eastern Cuisine ($65). Dec. 12, BiteSize Holiday Entertaining ($65). 6-8 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. Registration: downtownmark etgr.com/classes-events. Dec. 6, 13 - Grand River Folk Arts Society: Dance instruction. 7 p.m. Dec. 6, First Friday Contra Dance, 5th Street Hall, 701 5th St. NW ($9 adults, $7 members, $5 students/ seniors). 7 p.m. Dec. 13, Second Friday International Folk Dance, Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE ($5). 7 p.m. grfolkarts.org. Dec. 28 - GR Audubon Club: Kent County Christmas Bird Count for birders of all skill levels. More info: Ranger Steve at 696-1753 or glsga.org/grac.

December 2013 / Grmag.com 85

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

museums & attractions COMPILED BY DONNA FERRARO AND TRICIA VAN ZELST

2/ kalamaZoo iNStitute of artS: Special exhibitions: Thru Jan. 26, Boo! Images of the Macabre. Thru Feb. 2, Mountains and Waters: Landscape Paintings from China. Dec. 14-Feb. 9, Fantastic Rumpus: 50 Years of Children’s Book Illustration. Dec. 21-Feb. 23, Impressions: Selections from Stewart & Stewart. Closed Mon. $5 adults, $2 students with ID, kids 12 and under free. 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, kiarts.org.

Blandford Nature Center: Trails, nature exhibits, heritage buildings, farm on 143 acres. Interpretive Center open weekdays; trails open daily dawn to dusk. Special event: 2-3:30 p.m. Dec. 14, Pioneer Holidays: crafts, snow games and cookie decorating ($6, $5 members). For workshops, see website. $3. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 735-6240, blandford naturecenter.org. Coopersville & Marne Railway: Restored 1920s-era railway. Special event: Thru Dec. 22, Santa Train rides include Santa, merry elves and reading “The Polar Express.” See website for times. $15.50 adults, $14.50 seniors, $13.50 kids 2-12, under 2 free. 311 Danforth St., Coopersville, 9977000, coopersvilleandmarne.org. Coopersville Farm Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Dec. 12, Animals on the Farm Photo and Art Contest. Thru Jan. 5, Community Christmas Trees. Special events: Christmas Fair with Mrs. Claus 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 14. Acoustic Jam Nights 6-9 p.m. first and third Tue. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 28 is Kids Day. Permanent exhibitions: Tractors, quilts, eclipse windmill, kids area. Open Tue., Thu. and Sat. $4 adults, $2 age 4-18, kids 3 and under free. 375 Main St., Coopersville, 997-8555, coopers villefarmmuseum.org. DeGraaf Nature Center: 18-acre preserve with Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch. Special event: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 14, Homestead Holiday, crafts include cornhusk dolls, candles, ornaments, pioneer toys (see web for fees). Closed Sun., Mon., holidays. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 600 Graafschap Road, Holland, (616) 355-1057, cityofholland.com/degraafnaturecenter. Free. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum: Special exhibition: Thru May 7, Growing Up Grand, a look at Ford’s formative years. Special events: 1-5 p.m. Dec. 8, Open House includes visits from Santa, Mrs. Claus and reindeer, holiday music and storytelling. Permanent exhibitions: The 1970s, Watergate, Oval Office, New Mood at the White House. Open daily. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 college students, $3 age 6-18, kids 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St. NW, 254-0400, fordlibrarymuseum.gov.

Starting Dec. 14

2/ Illustrations from “Jeremy Draws a Monster” by Peter McCarty are part of KIA’s Fantastic Rumpus, an exhibit of children’s book illustrations.

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: Special events/activities: See New Year’s Early Eve in Special Events. Thru Dec. 28, GiftWorks: Make It, Take It, Give It. Thru June 2014, Kidstruction Zone. Permanent activities: Busy, Busy Bees; Bubbles!; Mom and Pop Store; Giant Lite Brite and more. Toddler Tuesdays, 3 and under (10 a.m.-noon). Family Nights 5-8 p.m. Thu., $1.50. Closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors, kids under 1 free. 22 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org. Grand Rapids Art Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Jan. 5, Michigan Artist Series: Joey Ruiter, Objects in Motion. Thru Jan. 12, Masterpieces of American Landscape Painting 1820-1950,

PHOTOGRAPHy cOuRTEsy kAlAmAZOO insTiTuTE Of ARTs (bOTTOm); mEiJER GARDEns & sculPTuRE PARk (TOP)

1/ freDerik meiJer garDeNS & Sculpture park: Special events: Thru Jan. 5, Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World includes decorated trees, strolling carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, Sing-Along Trolley, Railway Garden, Santa Visits, Roof-Top Reindeer and Original Dickens 1/ The Meijer Gardens Railway Garden train runs on a 500-foot Carolers (see website for track past more than 30 iconic Grand Rapids buildings. times). Special exhibitions: Thru Jan. 5, Shattered: Contemporary Sculpture in Glass. permanent attractions: World-class sculptures indoors and in 30-acre park; tropical conservatory, café/restaurant, gift shop. Open daily. $12 adults, $9 seniors and students, $6 age 5-13, $4 age 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijergardens.org.

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and America Near and Far: Photography from the Collection, 1870-1930. Permanent exhibitions: 19th and 20th century art; design and modern craft; prints, drawings, photographs. Special events: See Dec. 6 Tree Lighting in Special Events. Friday Nights at GRAM: Music, gallery talks, cash bar, dinner options 5-9 p.m. $5 adults, members free. Drop-in Family Saturdays: Art-making activities for kids and families, kid-friendly tours, 1-4 p.m. Sunday Classical Concert Series: Live performances 2-3 p.m. Closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors/ students, $5 age 6-17, kids 5 and under free. 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org.

PHOTOGRAPHy cOuRTEsy kAlAmAZOO insTiTuTE Of ARTs (bOTTOm); mEiJER GARDEns & sculPTuRE PARk (TOP)

Happy Holidays! We invite you to celebrate the Holiday Season with us. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine inspired by Executive Chef Michele Godina.

Meyer May House: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house restored by Steelcase includes original furnishings. Guided tours 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue. and Thu., 1-5 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour prior to closing). 450 Madison Ave. SE, 246-4821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com. Free. Muskegon Museum of Art: Special exhibitions: Thru Jan. 19, Jason Quigno: Harmony in Stone. Thru Feb. 23, Pauline Palmer, Impressionist: Chicago’s Painter Lady. Dec. 12-Feb. 9, The Woodcarving of Lamidi Fakeye. Permanent exhibitions: Paintings, prints, sculpture and glass. Closed Mon. and Tue. $7 adults (Thu. free), $5 students, kids under 17 free. 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, muskegonartmuseum.org. Tri-Cities Historical Museum: Two buildings house exhibits of Northwest Ottawa County. Closed Mon. 200 Washington Ave. and 1 N. Harbor, Grand Haven, (616) 842-0700, tri-citiesmuseum. org. Free.

Award Winning

Authentic Italian

Cuisine

www.trecugini.com 122 Monroe Center St. NW (616) 235-9339 December 2013 / GRmAG.cOm 87

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out & about Society / faces / places

Regan Adolfo and Marjorie Steele

Lori Slager and Mary Reagan Shapton Megan McAfee, James Peacock and Whitney Bunch

People mingling at The Captain’s Affair

Alex Gezon and Silvia Welch

snap shots

Capturing the action

around town:

The Creative Youth Center hosted its first ever pop-up fundraising dinner — The Captain’s Affair — on Oct. 17, hosted by Reagan Marketing + Design with treats by Chef Tommy Fitzgerald. Guests were instructed to wear “black-on-black-on-black” for an evening of macabre festivities. Attendees at the 7th annual Wine, Women & Chocolate event Oct. 10 at Thousand Oaks Golf Club celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Women’s Resource Center with area wines, local chocolates and hors d’oeuvres. On Oct. 16, Gov. Rick Snyder spoke to the Grand Rapids Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty class of 2013 at the Goei Center.

Caroline Clark, Qiqi Clark, Steven DePolo and Lourdie Clark

Dave, Sandi, Jennifer and Derek Aten

Photography by michael buck (top); johnny quirin (bottom)

Danielle Marsiglia, Shawn and Averil Crowley and Michael Marsiglia

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Arlene Chettleburgh and Vernis Schad

Shanna Shillington and Wendy Story

Janice Hilliard, Misti Stanton and Shannon Gardner

Lining up to sample Michigan wines at the Wine, Women and Chocolate event

Julie Brill, Whitney Ross, Sarah Kreshak, Amanda Tollas, Amanda Barbour and Lisa Walbeck Brian and Megan Miller Governer Snyder and Maria Erazo

Photography by michael buck (top); johnny quirin (bottom)

Katie Krolewicz and Marie Getz

December 2013 / Grmag.com 89

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Dec. 7 - Pop Scholars: Improv comedy team. 8 p.m. Wealthy Theater, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $7. popscholars.com.

Best of 2011-12 Readers Poll

Dr. Mike Crete

Voted Best Dentist

Dr. Crete’s patient before treatment.

3514 Rivertown Point CT, SW, Grandville, MI

616-534-0135 | www.rivertowndental.com

Music

photography Courtesy Jason Reiffer

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Special Advertising Section

are continually seeking out ways to improve patient outcomes, giving them the opportunity to live healthier, more productive lives,” said Dr. Lynn Hedeman, practicing neurosurgeon and founding partner of Great Lakes Neurosurgical Associates, PC. “New procedures and technologies are one of the many ways in which we continue to provide leading neurosurgical care to our patients and their primary care providers.” As such, these surgeons have authored numerous treatises and medical articles and can also be listed as medical procedure/device inventors. In fact, all of the surgeons on the GLNA team are on the teaching faculty at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. They participate in clinical trials for breakthrough technologies and are sought out as presenting neurosurgical speakers worldwide. Their guiding principles are simple: Make the best decisions concerning

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the welfare of each patient on an individual level, and to provide outstanding medical care delivered with compassion. They also believe in maintaining professional independence and are strong supporters of community involvement. They often volunteer for medical outreach missions around the world. “We are greatly humbled and thankful for our successes,” Dr. Hedeman said in summation. “I love what we do; we change lives.” Accepting new patients (including patients with previous surgeries), appointments are available by requesting a referral to Great Lakes Neurosurgical Associates through your primary health care physician or provider. They also have expanded outpatient clinics at several Grand Rapids locations with insurance specialists available to answer any questions. For more information, visit www.greatlakesneuro.com.

Above: Left to right, Bryan E. Figueroa, MD; John E. Stevenson, MD; Stanley O. Skarli, MD; John F. Keller, MD; John S. Winestone, MD; Lynn S. Hedeman, MD; and Lawrence T. Foody, MD, PhD Photo by: Emily Griffith Below: Physician assistant, Joanna Polizzi of Great Lakes Neurosurgical Associates, P.C. Photo by: Emily Griffith Left: Dr. Lynn Hedeman, neurosurgeon and founding partner of Great Lakes Neurosurgical Associates, P.C. Photo by: Emily Griffith

10/25/13 9:52 AM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SHOWCASE HOLLAND HOME

CORPORATE OFFICES: 2100 RAYBROOK STREET, SE, SUITE 300 616.235.5000

WWW.HOLLANDHOME.ORG

The Experts for Aging Adults

BY J. STAPLETON BURCH

THE AGING OF AMERICA is a fact. Every day, 8,000 Americans celebrate their 60th birthday. It is a reality ffor or which Holland Home has long been preparing. Well aahead head of the curve on healthcare reform, they have been strategically evolving their lively retirement campuses into communities that promote a healthy, robust lifestyle for seniors. They have also grown their broad array of care options to include daily living services designed to facilitate independence and meet the needs of an aging population.

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Ranked among the top non-profit continuing care retirement communities in the nation, Holland Home has been enhancing the lives of Grand Rapids’ seniors for over 120 years. Today, their three vibrant retirement communities not only offer beautiful, burden-free accommodations, but also include an ever-changing program of daily activities, social and educational outings, and life-enriching events. “Within our communities we have created centers for healthy aging and whole-person wellness by focusing on four specific factors proven to lead to successful aging,” noted Christopher Nicely, executive vice president of marketing for Holland Home. He explained those factors with the acronym, SIPS, which translates to Social, Intellectual, Physical and Spiritual health. Developed from medically based research and established at Holland Home through Masterpiece Living®, residents can chart a course of personal growth from over 100 options and activities concentrated in each of these areas. To keep things fresh, new programs and events are introduced monthly. “Today, people want to live a life of wellness and physical fitness,” Nicely noted. “The research proves that if we focus on those four criteria – and we nurture them – we can achieve that goal.” Holland Home has already experi-

10/25/13 9:53 AM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

enced positive SIPS-based results. “We conducted baseline research four years ago when we first introduced the programs and have since seen astounding differences among our residents,” Nicely continued. “We have created an overall culture of community. The result is less time spent in hospitals, a decrease in risk factors that lead to decline, a lessened chance to succumb to age-associated illnesses and an increase in overall personal well being.” The expert staff and gerontology specialists at Holland Home thoroughly understand the challenges inherent with the aging process. They are well equipped to provide

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exceptional support at each of its various stages with a full range of healthcare and services, from independent living to assisted living, to skilled nursing care and beyond. Their Trillium Woods campus in Byron Center is exclusively purposed to provide compassionate Faith Hospice® care should it be required. No matter what the future holds, their LifeCare agreement guarantees a continuum of lifelong care, while their benevolent fund ensures residents have a home for life, even in the face of dwindling resources. A far cry from the “old folks home” of yore, Holland Home has evolved into a perfect combination of exciting possibilities and freedom from worry that allows older adults to really enjoy life. Many are surprised to discover the cost of living within its retirement communities are comparable or even less expensive than before since home maintenance issues are a thing of the past. “The funds from selling your home is your buy-in,” Nicely noted. “So when you do the math, it’s actually very economical. Today’s retirees come here for an active, sociable, worry-free lifestyle that allows them to age better, with the added security of continuing care for life within our top ranked facilities. Many of our residents consider it a gift to their adult children.”

Above left: Masterpiece Living supports the four pillars of successful aging-the intellectual, physical, social and spiritual. Photo by: Brian Kelly Above right: Exercise is a key component of successful aging. Photo by: Brian Kelly Left: Masterpiece Living offers many opportunities for learning and growing. Photo by: Brian Kelly Facing Page: Christopher Nicely, executive vice president of marketing. Photo by: Michael Buck

10/25/13 9:54 AM

Happy Holidays! We invite you to celebrate the Holiday Season with us. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine inspired by Executive Chef Michele Godina.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS (BOTTOM); MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK (TOP)

Grand Rapids Public Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Dec. 31, Be Curious, A Glimpse at New GRPM Collections, an assortment of items donated by the community. Thru Feb. 2, Grandmother Power: A Global Phenomenon. Thru April 27, Dinosaurs Unearthed, an exhibition of animatronic dinosaurs and fossils that explores the discovery of feathered dinosaurs and their connection to modern day birds. Special events: See Dec. 27 Night at Your Museum in Special Events. Permanent exhibitions: Streets of Old Grand Rapids, Anishinabek and Newcomers: People of This Place, Collecting A-Z, Furniture City, 1928 carousel ($1). $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 age 3-17. Van Andel Museum Center, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grmuseum.org. Holland Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Dec. 30, From Craft to Industry: The Boat Builders of Holland, and Harnessing the Wind. Special events: Dec. 6, Sinterklaas visit. Dec. 12, Holiday Open House. Dec. 14-15, Cappon House Victorian Christmas Tea. Permanent exhibitions: Dutch Galleries of 17th- to 20th-century paintings; cultural attractions from the “old country”; local history. Closed Tue. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, kids 5 and under free. Cappon House: 228 W. 9th St.; Settlers House: 190 W. 9th St.; Main building: 31 W. 10th St., (616) 796-3329, hollandmuseum.org. Meyer May House: Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house restored by Steelcase includes original furnishings. Guided tours 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue. and Thu., 1-5 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour prior to closing). 450 Madison Ave. SE, 246-4821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com. Free. Muskegon Museum of Art: Special exhibitions: Thru Jan. 19, Jason Quigno: Harmony in Stone. Thru Feb. 23, Pauline Palmer, Impressionist: Chicago’s Painter Lady. Dec. 12-Feb. 9, The Woodcarving of Lamidi Fakeye. Permanent exhibitions: Paintings, prints, sculpture and glass. Closed Mon. and Tue. $7 adults (Thu. free), $5 students, kids under 17 free. 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, muskegonartmuseum.org. Tri-Cities Historical Museum: Two buildings house exhibits of Northwest Ottawa County. Closed Mon. 200 Washington Ave. and 1 N. Harbor, Grand Haven, (616) 842-0700, tri-citiesmuseum. org. Free.

Award Winning

Authentic Italian

www.trecugini.com

Cuisine

122 Monroe Center St. NW (616) 235-9339

applause

catering + events

Let Applause cater for any occasion. Home Parties, Holidays, Graduations, Weddings, Memorials, Picnics, Luncheons, Cocktail Parties, Dinners, for both intimate and large groups.

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Join our following on Facebook!

DECEMBER 2013 / GRMAG.COM 87

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Special Advertising Section

Left: Expert jewelry repair and heirloom restoration are just as important to the artisans of Metal Art Studio as their custom-crafted pieces. “If it’s special to you, it’s special to us,” noted store co-owner Carol Wagen. “We’ll treat it with the same care and attention we give our custom pieces, it doesn’t matter where or when it was purchased, or whether it’s fine jewelry, silver, or even costume. We just want you to be able to enjoy wearing it again.” And because every aspect of the jewelry-making and repair processes are done onsite, your pieces are always safe and swiftly returned. Even if you have been told otherwise, thanks to the latest in laser-welding equipment, the experts at Metal Art Studio may be able to fix those precious pieces or family heirlooms deemed too fragile to repair with a traditional jewelers torch. Photo by: Michael Buck Facing Page, Left: Brilliant gemstone rings by Grand Rapids jeweler Scott Carey add a splash of holiday color. Apple Green Tourmaline in green gold with green & white diamonds, Tanzanite in yellow gold with diamonds Facing Page, Right: Hug her finger with stacking rings by Scott Carey. Mix and match, and scatter in some gemstones like this sparkly orange citrine and Mexican Fire Opal.

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10/30/13 2:46 PM

after thoughts

Q:a

His parents were soldiers in The Salvation Army. Now Major Marc S. Johnson heads up the Kroc Center in Grand Rapids.

Want to help? Look for The Salvation Army red kettles in many area businesses or donate at onlineredkettle.org.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

s senior officer for The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center since 2010, Major Marc is responsible for oversight of the 105,000-square-foot facility in southeast Grand Rapids. And just like the jolly guy in the red suit, Johnson wants to fill stockings for kids and families. His role in the Army’s annual Red Kettle Drive is to oversee a portion of West Michigan to make sure the overall donation goal of $1.75 million is met through the efforts of bell ringers. When he’s not at the Kroc Center, Major Marc enjoys spending time outdoors with wife, Karen, and their three children.. WHAT TALENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO POSSESS? I would like to be able to be a great motivational speaker. WHAT IS YOUR WORST HABIT? Perfectionism — i.e., suffering from the “paralysis of analysis.” WHAT DO YOU DO TO UNWIND? I like to spend time with my wife doing anything outdoors (camping, fishing, walking, etc.). NO ONE KNOWS THAT … I want to sky dive or take a long ride in a hot air balloon. PROUDEST CAREER MOMENT? When I am able to meet human needs at the point of those needs — especially when the person is in crisis. THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? “Toxic Charity” by Robert D. Lupton GUESTS AT YOUR FANTASY DINNER PARTY? Jesus Christ, the Apostle Paul, and William and Catherine Booth (the co-founders of The Salvation Army).

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10/22/13 8:49 AM

Your Personal Jeweler 1144 East Paris, Grand Rapids

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10/22/13 8:49 AM