Revue, February 2013 by Serendipity Media

West Michigan’s Entertainment Guide for 25 years » February 2013

Always Free!

The

Love Issue

Date Ideas / Romantic Dining / Quirky Weddings / How to Get a Date

Also Inside: The Jammies Testament Don Giovanni Paula Poundstone

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What’s Inside

February 2013 | Volume 25, Issue 2

SCENE:

13 Random Notes 16 Beer: Grand Rapids Brewing Co. 18 de Polo’s Free Market 20 Eclectic Events

SPECIAL SECTION:

The Love Issue

23 The Love Issue 24 So, You’re Engaged 26 Facebook Status Fashion 28 How to Get a Date 29 Romantic Dining 30 GR Date Nights 32 Kalamazoo Date Nights 34 Lakeshore Date Nights 36 All Ages: Family Dates

SOUNDS:

39 Sink’s Spins: The Jammies 40 On Tour: Testament 42 On Tour: Candlebox

SIGHTS:

45 Visual Arts: Gaspard Gallery 46 Literary Life: Funny man Ted Fox 48 Performing Arts: Opera Grand Rapids Presents Don Giovanni 50 Missy Black’s Style Notes 52 Comedy: Paula Poundstone 54 Indie Film 55 Movie Previews

48 Don Giovanni

DINING:

40 Testament

Taste This

58 Restaurant Listings 60 Taste This

SCHEDULE:

65 Daily Event Listings and Best Bets

Letter from the Editor

W e s t M i c h i g a n ’ s E n terta i n me n t G u i de

e’re entering probably the most polarized holiday on the calendar: Valentine’s Day. If you’re in a relationship, it’s great. Dinners, flowers, chocolates, wine — it’s pamper and luxury city. If you’re single? Well, if modern cinema has taught us anything, it’s that you must be chained to the couch until that guy at the coffee shop you’ve been eyeing stands outside your apartment window and serenades you with a guitar. (Because in modern cinema, all baristas know how to play “Iris” on the guitar just in case this exact moment presents itself to them.)

Editorial Publisher Brian Edwards / brian@revuewm.com Managing Editor Lindsay Patton-Carson / lindsay@revuewm.com

For most of my life, I (stupidly) had thoughts that even though I had zero love interests in my life, one would magically pop up on Valentine’s Day because that is just what’s supposed to happen.

Contributing Writers Kyle Austin Audria Larsen Missy Black Allison Parker Jayson Bussa Emma Kat Richardson Ben Darcie Matt Simpson Siegel Steven de Polo John Sinkevics Alexandra Fluegel Josh Spanninga Joe Gasmann Anya Zentmeyer Dwayne Hoover Contributing photographers Missy Black, Ben Darcie, Steven de Polo

Well, as most of us already know, baristas don’t hang outside our windows with guitars because that’s just creepy. If you haven’t come to that realization, sorry I ruined it, but you needed to know. The key to having a great Valentine’s Day — regardless of your relationship status — is first, stop watching rom coms, then get creative and quirky. West Michigan has a crazy amount of entertainment options for anyone — whether it’s single, taken or complicated. Go out, try something new, have fun and most importantly, don’t be like me at 21 and expect some rando to show up in the middle of the night and sing your favorite Fall Out Boy song to you. Not like that happened or anything… Rock on.

Design Creative Director Kim Kibby / kim@revuewm.com Design Kim Kibby, Kristi Kortman, Kellie Zaplitny

Listings schedule@revuewm.com Revue Minions Briana Doolan Diana Nowak Lauren Longo Carly Plank Kari Norton Audrey Sochor Sales / 616.608.6170 / sales@revuewm.com Molly Rizor / molly@revuewm.com WEB EDITOR Jayson Bussa

Lindsay Patton-Carson, Managing Editor / lindsay@revuewm.com

Find us online! Website: revuewm.com Twitter: twitter.com/revuewm Facebook: facebook.com/revuewm

Advertising index Alma College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Amway: Ruth’s Chris. . . . . . . . . . 31 Amway: Supper Club. . . . . . . . . . 59 Arena District: Mardi Gras. . . . . . 51 B.O.B.’s Brewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bell’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 73 Billy’s Lounge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Brewery Vivant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Bud Light/West Side Beer. . . . . . 76 Calvin SAO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Cascade Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Celebration! Cinema. . . . . . . . . . 55 Central City Taphouse. . . . . . . . . 17 DeltaPlex Arena. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Dog Story Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Dr. Grins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Erb Thai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Experience GR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Firekeepers Casino . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Founders Brewing Company. . . . 11 The Gilmore Collection. . . . . . . . . 27 GLAMA/Cooper’s Glen Music Festival. . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 GR Art Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 GR Ballet: Peter Pan . . . . . . . . . . 37 GR Brewing Co.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 GR Public Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 GR Public Museum . . . . . . . . . . . 14 GR Symphony. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Grand Woods Lounge. . . . . . . . . . 75 GrowCo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Gun Lake Casino. . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

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Holiday Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Hope College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 The Intersection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Irish on Ionia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Kzoo Hit Factory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kzoo State Theatre. . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Kzoo Valley Community College. . 72 KB Productions: matchbox 20. . . 15 Keil Lasik. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Kissing Rock Kitchens. . . . . . . . . 63 Kitten Flower Tattoo. . . . . . . . . . . 74 LaughFest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Michigan Irish Music Festival. . . 35 Miller Auditorium. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The Orbit Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Palazzolo’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Porterhouse Productions. . . . . . . 60 The Pyramid Scheme. . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Radix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Reserve. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 River City Improv. . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 San Chez Bistro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Saugatuck Brewing Company. . . 17 Saugatuck Center for the Arts. . . 35 Schmohz Brewing Company . . . . 17 Schuler Books. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Seven Steps Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Sight Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Soaring Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 St. Cecilia Music Center . . . . . . . 50 The Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 University Musical Society. . . . . . 28 Van Andel Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Vitale’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 West Michigan Symphony. . . . . . 22 Wharton Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Revue is published monthly by Revue Holding Company. 65 Monroe Center, Ste. 5, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Office: 616.608.6170 / Fax: 616.608.6182 ©2013, Revue Holding Company. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher in accordance with our legal statement, fools.

On the cover: Our latest Love Issue gives you non-cheesy inspiration for the season of imposed romantification. See page 23.

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Random Notes

Nick Cave

On Tour /// Electronic jam band Lotus, currently touring behind its upcoming album Build, play The Intersection on Feb. 5. Known for its stunning light shows and live improvisational abilities, the group draws from influences as diverse as Phish, The Talking Heads and Kraftwerk. Tickets are $17.50 in advance and $20 the day of the show. Doors open at 8 p.m. …On the other side of the spectrum lies country sensation Dustin Lynch, appearing at The Intersection on Feb. 28 to support his recent album Cowboys and Angels. Special guests include veteran country rockers Brian Lorente and the Usual Suspects, as well as Meijer Gardens Summer Concert Series performer The Kari Lynch Band. Tickets are

$15 in advance or $18 the day of the show. Doors open at 6:30 ... Wild Belle, composed of siblings Elliot and Natalie Bergman, will serenade their audience at the Ladies Literary Club with atmospheric, hook-heavy indie rock. Keep an eye out for their debut album coming in March. Saturday Looks Good to Me will accompany the duo. Tickets are $10 for the Feb. 20 show at 8 p.m.

National CD Releases /// Master of moodiness Nick Cave releases Push the Sky Away, his 15th studio album with his band The Bad Seeds, on Feb. 19. The album’s been generating buzz since it was announced, as it’s the first album without original Bad Seeds member Mick Harvey, in addition to the NSFW album cover of Cave telling a nude lady to “GTFO.” … Critically acclaimed Harlem rapper Azealia Banks follows her breakout EP 1991 and mixtape Fantasea with Broke With Expensive Taste on Feb. 5 … Jim James of My Morning Jacket releases his solo debut Regions of Light and Sound of God on Feb. 5 ... Songstress Holly Williams, daughter of Hank Williams Jr., crafts soulful and melodic tunes with a country flair and has appeared on “Chelsea Lately” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” Her third album, The Highway, drops Feb. 5 … Rapidly ascending Portland rock trio

Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s sophomore album, II, drops on Feb. 5 … Fans of The Lumineers and Imagine Dragons will appreciate indie-pop group Various Cruelties, whose self-titled debut was released in England in April of 2012 and will be available in the U.S. on Feb. 26 …Other noteworthy releases include Beach Fossils (Feb. 19), Coheed and Cambria (Feb. 5), Frightened Rabbit (Feb. 5), Josh Groban (Feb. 5), Silverstein (Feb. 5) and Tim McGraw (Feb. 5).

Eclectic /// Break out that telescope you have hiding in the attic; it’s time to use it for more than just creeping on your neighbors. The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Chaffee Planetarium and the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association join forces to offer Astronomy as a Hobby, Steps to Better Enjoyment. Dust off those telescopes and haul them down to Schuler Books and Music’s 28th Street location for this free series of Saturday classes on Feb. 16 and March 16. Classes begin at 1 p.m. and include stargazing tips, what to look for, online resources and star charts. Impress your date with your vast knowledge on the wonders of the night sky (yes, there is more up there than just the Big Dipper) followed by a “Telescope Tune-Up Clinic,” where you

can learn to keep your equipment in working order … If you’ve got a sweet tooth and a soft heart, indulge them both at the 24th Annual MSU Chocolate Party Benefit on Feb. 24. Foodies and museum friends, or anybody that likes chocolate for that matter, can spend the afternoon tantalizing taste buds while supporting a good cause. The MSU Museum is teaming up with local vendors, area chefs and culinary students to help with the preservation and care of the museum’s wide-ranging natural science and cultural collections. Competitors at this year’s Chocolate Party will create whimsical, elaborate and, most important, deliciously edible 3-D works of art inspired by the exhibit “Adventures in Time and the Third Dimension: Through the Stereoscope.” Local businesses will also fill the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center with their chocolaty creations from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 for the general public and $25 for MSU Museum members in advance, or $35 at the door.

Comedy /// If you’re looking for a night out on the town with uncontrollable laughter as the ultimate goal, look no further than Laugh Don’t Leak. For this event, Dr. Grins offers $5 tickets for

Continued on page 14 8

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Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

Wild Belle at Ladies Lit Club

Azealia Banks

Random Notes

the Feb. 2 and 9 shows, starting at 5:30 p.m. Move fast, because the deal only lasts for the first 50 tickets sold per show. Ticket purchases for the Laugh Don’t Leak shows also helps a good cause. The Female Pelvic Medicine and Urogynecology Institute of Michigan paired up with Dr. Grins to raise awareness about bladder control issues (which can be a common problem at comedy clubs). The first 50 ticket buyers will also receive a dining coupon for 20 percent off during the night of their show. Comedians are Dan Cummins and Shaun Mauss.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Community ///

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The Creative Youth Center of Grand Rapids gives children a chance to become published authors, and believes nurturing a child’s creativity allows them to change the world. Thanks to a recent $225,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, CYC can help more at risk kids achieve change by boosting their writing and journalism skills. With these funds the CYC can increase its impact on the community by offering more programs, hiring full-time staff and leasing a new building, located at Wealthy and Eastern. Kids involved with the program won’t be the only ones benefitting. The new abode will also house a storefront and bookstore for kids.

Beer /// Grab some friends and crawl on up to Traverse City for the 4th annual Winter Microbrew & Music Festival on Feb. 2–9. Drink craft brews from your favorite local and regional makers and chow down on yummy grub, all while listening to vagabonds play opera or your favorite blues and indie musi-

Comedian Shane Mausse at “Laugh Don’t Leak,” Feb. 2 and 9 at Dr. Grins cians. Bands include Lowdown Brass Band, The Crane Wives, Funktion, The Ragbirds, Delilah Dewylde and The Lost Boys, Billy Strings and Don Julin, G-Snacks and more.

Literary /// After opening in 2007, Schuler Books in downtown Grand Rapids (40 Fountain St. NW) has decided not to renew its five-year lease. Don’t fret though, the company’s two other West Michigan locations (28th Street, Grand Rapids and Alpine Avenue NW, Walker) will remain open and they will take in the downtown employees. For all you discount shoppers, everything in the store has been marked down 25 percent. The store’s official closing will take place once it is completely cleared out — don’t miss your chance to stop in one last time. n

Random Notes is compiled by REVUE staff and minions, including Lauren Longo, Kari Norton, Lindsay Patton-Carson, Carly Plank and Audrey Sochor. For more music, art and entertainment news, “Like” us on Facebook (facebook.com/revuewm) or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/revuewm.

Important Dates Ad Space Reservation: Feb. 18 Editorial: Feb. 5 Delivery: Feb. 26

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/// Beer

by Ben Darcie | ben@revuewm.com

Brewery Spotlight

Beer News

Grand Rapids Brewing Company

Founders Brewing Company announced a $26 million expansion and adds “Rubeus” to production schedule for summer 2013.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

r a n d R a p i d s B r ewi n g C o m pany has finally found a home, back where it started: in downtown Grand Rapids. The original brewery opened in 1893 on the corner of Michigan and Ionia, and found itself defeated by Prohibition in 1920. It wasn’t resurrected until 1993, when its doors reopened on 28th street near Centerpointe Mall in the midst of West Michigan’s original microbrewery surge. It lasted eight years, went through three stages of ownership, and eventually closed its doors in late 2011. “When I heard that GRBC had been sold to [previous owners] the Shelbys, I regretted not having the opportunity to jump on it,” said Mark Sellers, who currently owns GRBC. “For years before, I had wanted to move it downtown if I ever had the chance.” After the 28th Street building was repossessed by its landlord (Centerpointe Mall), Sellers purchased the equipment, as well as the assets, seizing his chance to bring GRBC back to downtown Grand Rapids. He decided on 1 Ionia Avenue, previously occupied by MyBar and an art gallery, right down the street from his first Grand Rapids bar, HopCat. “I’d been working at HopCat since the place opened, and brewed there for the last two and a half years,” said Brewer Jake Brenner. “I transitioned over here in August, and we’ve been working nonstop since.” Also recruited to the brewing staff was Stu Crittenden, former head brewer for the 28th Street GRBC. “I originally started brewing at Michigan Brewing Company and transferred to GRBC,” Crittenden said. “I got in touch with Mark, who told me he was going to purchase the system, and we started the project of getting everything settled in here.” After months of intense internal renovation and establishing the brewery, head brewers Brenner and Crittenden began pumping out the first organic microbrew in the region in preparation for the Dec. 5 grand opening.

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New Holland Brewing Company has announced active location scouting for a new brewpub in downtown Grand Rapids. The 4th Annual Traverse City Winter Microbrew & Music Festival is Feb. 9. For more information, see porterhouseproductions.com.

Photos: Ben Darcie

“We were going absolutely non-stop, we were kegging 20 minutes before the doors opened,” Brenner said. “We knew it was going to be busy, but it was way more than an of us expected.” The response was massive. Beer lovers flooded the brewpub and devoured the entire stockpile of beer prepared for the open, driving the tap presence for GRBC’s brews down to one or two beers for the first month. “We had a line of 200 people at open that went down the street past HopCat,” Sellers said. “From the moment we opened, we were at capacity for 14 days. It was amazing.” After quickly expanding their cellar space by 30 percent in the first three weeks due to demand, GRBC has a much stronger presence on the tap list board.

The taproom is spacious with plenty of natural light, the walls are covered with old GRBC memorabilia, and both sides of the brewpub have their own stunning bar. GRBC also boasts an innovative full menu with something for everyone in your party, and you can even end your dining experience with a Dry Stout Float. “We didn’t want to mess up any of the historical elements,” Sellers said. “we wanted to bring it back to the old 1918 look, It was fun, but very challenging.” The only beer that remains from the old establishment is the classic Silver Foam American Lager, tweaked slightly for the new brewery. Other standards include John Ball Brown, Campau’s 90 Dollar Pale (named for the famous $90 purchase of downtown Grand Rapids by Louis Campau), Lucius Lyon Dry Stout, Roselyn Bliss Mango Blonde Ale, Fishladder IPA, and Brewer’s Heritage Hefeweizen. The brewery has also done two collaboration brews with local breweries Pike 51 in Hudsonville and Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids. n

Grand Rapids Brewing Company 1 Ionia Ave. SE, Grand Rapids grbrewingcompany.com, (616) 458-7000

Beer of the Month

Saugatuck Brewing Company: Neapolitan Milk Stout

his seasonal release from Saugatuck Brewing Company takes dry stout to another level. Strawberry, chocolate and vanilla additions are finished off with a healthy dose of lactose sugar, giving Neapolitan Milk Stout a very smooth, silky mouth-feel. This stout pours black with a dark brown head, an aroma full of chocolate, strawberry and soft roast. The body is light and full of dark malt flavors and roast, with a prominent strawberry and chocolate presence while the vanilla stays in the overtones. Perfect for a cold Michigan day.

S A U G AT U C K B R E W I N G C O M PA N Y P R E S E N T S

Crafts &Courses

BEER SCHOOL 101

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15TH

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH

(in advance only) ($30 for Pint Club members)

(available at door only) ($8 for Pint Club members)

6:30PM $35 TICKETS

7:00PM $10 TICKETS

SBC will be hosting a series of tasting events designed to further educate and develop the palate of you, the craft beer lover.

Go to sbrewing.com for full menu including vegetarian option!

ALL ABOUT HOPS! Feb. 28 WORLD BEER STYLES Mar. 28

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

This special evening will feature ﬁve elegant courses paired with ﬁve special SBC beers.

THE FLAVORS OF BEER WITH FOOD

Apr. 25

(admission $15 - Pint Club members $12, this event only)

2948 BLUE STAR HWY DOUGLAS, MI - (269) 857-7222 - WWW.SBREWING.COM

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Steven de polo’s

Free Market

New and exciting things happening in the businesses and nonprofits in West Michigan.

Smashburger

Freebies Bloop Frozen Yogurt (6333 Kalamazoo Ave. SE) is the latest in a tidal wave of tart and tangy goodness. Bloop offers fresh yogurt in a variety of flavors and numerous toppings (called bloopers). Every time you buy a cup of bloop yogurt, a cup of clean drinking water will be donated to someone who needs it.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Donk’s Mexican Joint (820 Michigan St.) recently opened in Grand Rapids’ bustling Michigan Street Corridor. Donk’s serves fresh, quality Tex-Med food in a convenient and friendly setting. Check out the (Almost) Famous Super Burrito. Owners Scott and Sue Drolema, of Belmont, expect to open several Donk’s in West Michigan, while also converting their Taco Boy chain into the new concept.

Donk’s Mexican Joint Photo: Steven de Polo

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cooking school at an appliance store? Yes, because Bekins is more than an appliance store. With stores in Grand Haven and Grand Rapids, this high-end electronics integrator offers high-end entertainment and kitchen gear that must be seen and used to be believed. Helping customers master the art of cooking and get more out of their fancy kitchen appliances through informative cooking classes makes sense. Led by Bekins Corporate Chef Tom Reinhart, the Bekins Cooking School has quickly become West Michigan’s premier recreational cooking school. The classes offer practical cooking advice that can be applied in your home kitchen using techniques applicable to any skill level. of yoga. “During practice, it’s just you, When not being yogatastic, Poppa Chef Tom offers classes in the Grand your mat and your breath,” she said. Steve is known to chomp on a burger or Haven showroom (735 Washington two. Smashburger (6333 Kalamazoo “You can let go of everything else and Ave.), while Sue Chef is the resident Ave. SE, Suite 450) in Kentwood is the really feel your body and give yourself chef instructor for the Grand Rapids second of a possible seven franchises of a chance to renew.” showroom (6275 28th St. SE). You this Denver-based fast casual restaurant may recognize Sue from her weekly chain brought to West Michigan by Vida Yoga (4365 Canal Ave. SW, PBS cooking show, “Get Fresh with Jim Carmody and Kent Ward of JK&T Grandville) intends to serve yoga fans in Sue Chef,” or her cookbook of the Wings. They are also responsible for loGrandville and the Westside of Grand same title. Look for classes like the cal editions of Buffalo Wild Wings and Tender Foodie and Vegan Cuisine for Rapids. A native of Jenison, owner Jen Newk’s Cafe. Back to Smashburger. The Wittlinger does not subscribe to one the omnivore. particular style of yoga. Her instructors curious Miss Carolita and our demure daughters recently visited this “better specialize in a range of practices, from Two new yoga studios have opened in burger” restaurant. When the chef yells, Holy Yoga to Power Vinyasa, and they Grand Rapids to help you cope with “Smash Up!” your mouth will start are dedicated encouraging practitioners your holiday hot messiness. Yoga of all levels. Students include athletes, watering. The handcrafted burgers are HEAT (820 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite smashed, seared and seasoned to order 104) opened downtown, targeting empty nesters, bodybuilders, spiriusing fresh, premium beef. They have tual leaders, young moms, retirees and professionals and students. Anyone is numerous gourmet offerings, like a cheerleaders. Vida Yoga’s newest class welcome at Yoga HEAT, but the studio’s is bodyGROOVE, which is an energetic Michigan Olive Burger, along with a list mission is in its full name: Yoga Helps of high-quality toppings. This reporter dance class that lifts the spirit and the Every Athlete Thrive. Located close to was impressed by the BBQ, Bacon and heart rate. Unlike most group fitness the running/bike path along the river, Cheddar Burger. Miss Carolita had the classes, the movement is interpretive Yoga HEAT offers Power Vinyasa in a and incorporates the entire room. All-American, of course. Miss Qiqi room heated from 80 to 85 degrees, as inhaled the child-sized burger, while “BodyGROOVE fits in perfectly with well as a weekly yin class to help keep Miss Lulu had an un-garnished grilled joints healthy. Owner Elizabeth Sanders Vida’s mission of offering opportunities chicken sandwich. She doesn’t front. to be playful and feel good,” Jen said. was born and raised on the northeast Don’t forget the handspun Haagenside of Grand Rapids and she has comDazs shakes, my pets. n pleted nine marathons with the help

Photo: Steven de Polo

Yoga HEAT Courtesy Photo

CRIMSON KING

BLONDIE

UNIQUE HANDCRAFTED, SMALL BATCH BEERS

Chef-Brewer Collaboration Ale # 2 BOB ESB Peanut Butter Stout / Robert the Barrel Imperial Stout Michigan Barley Wine Bourbon Barrel Aged Beer Wit Rabbit / Cherry Rabbit / Spooky Action 2.5 IPA Try all of our craft beers on tap!

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

STANDARDS ON TAP Blondie / Crimson King / Full On IPA FEBRUARY’S SEASONAL BEERS:

FULL ON IPA

SPACEBOY STOUT

WIT RABBIT

DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS, MI 616.356.2000 - THEBOB.COM HOPSUN REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

/// Eclectic

Dixon’s Violin

his year, the longest shortest month is likely to fly by with plenty of happenings to stave off winter SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) attacks, keep the romance kindled, taunt hypothermia for charity and send you on a mystical journey. Sound good? By Audria Larsen

Saburba Dinner at Sietsema Orchards: Feast for Aphrodite

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Sietsema Orchards, Ada / Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m. $55 a person / sietsemaorchards.com, (616) 676-5584

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Feast for Aphrodite is the lover’s edition of the Farm to Table dinner series at Sietsema Orchards, in conjunction with Saburba restaurant. You can skip the crowds this Valentine’s holiday and celebrate a day early in an intimate environment while enjoying delectable local foods that will put you in the mood. “Everything will be sourced locally as much as possible,” said Owner Andy Sietsema. This includes items from the orchard like fresh and hard cider. The decadent seven-course dinner begins with oysters, avocado and crab salad, stuffed fig and pomegranate seeds with local honey. The meal then shifts to foie gras with almonds and Michigan cherries, bone marrow with maple syrup and blis caviar. The final courses are sweeter, with bananas foster, Brazilian brigadeiro and chocolate and chile truffle. Dinner is served under candlelight paired with the glow of the kitchen. “It makes for a very cool atmosphere,” said Sietsema, who also features globe lights, a warm fire and heat lamps outside to keep people cozy on the patio, although the main courses are all served indoors. In addition to the ambiance, you can get to know your cook. “It’s like having a personal chef at your disposal,” he said, noting that Chef Peter Davidson will introduce

the menu and interact with guests throughout the evening. The event is only available to 40 guests, so make sure to get your tickets quickly.

Dixon’s Violin: Transformational Journeys via Digital Violin Kalamazoo Valley Museum / Feb. 15, 7 p.m. $5 / kvm.kvcc.edu, (800) 772-3370

Detroit native Dixon will take you on a “transformational journey via digital violin” at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum this month. Classically trained from the age of 10, Dixon worked as a symphony violinist before delving into digital techniques and developing his one-man show. The music is created live during every performance as he pairs technology with the traditional that is at once enchanting and found inspirational by many. Dixon has played everywhere from yoga studios and cultural events to national festivals and events like Burning Man. He recently gave a talk at TEDxDetroit and launched a new album in December. He considers himself a Digital Violin Shaman with a “life mission to inspire people.”

Grand Rapids Polar Plunge 2013 East Grand Rapids Middle School

Feb. 23, 11 a.m. / $10 and up firstgiving.com/polarplunge This month, brave folks will participate in one of 27 Polar Plunges happening throughout the year. The day kicks off with the parade of costumes, which showcases plungers’ zany outfits prior to the costume contest. The plunge itself begins at 1 p.m. as plungers demonstrate derring-do and leap into icy water in order to raise money for Special Olympics Michigan. Following the big dip, participants and spectators alike can warm up at the post plunge party, featuring hot food and beverages. To learn how to sponsor a plunger or simply donate, follow the link above. Organized by Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), the plunges provide funds for almost 20,000 athletes who participate in the Special Olympics.

Arena District Mardi Gras Celebration Downtown Grand Rapids / Feb. 12, 6 p.m. Free! arenadistrictgr.com

On Fat Tuesday, downtown eateries, breweries and pubs open their doors as part of a unified Mardi Gras celebration put on by the Arena District, a non-profit geared toward providing cultural events. The area is set to buzz with street performers, Zydeco-inspired bands and more than 30 wandering musicians with ukuleles, washboards, trumpets and accordions to entertain the masses while beads fly. Bar hopping is encouraged and a prize is given to the best decorated venue. Admission is free throughout the 12 participating business including Stella’s Lounge, Grand Rapids Brewing Co., The B.O.B., HopCat and Rockwell-Republic. Mardi Gras specials begin Friday, Feb. 8,,and continue through Tuesday, Feb. 12. n

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Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Special Feature

Date Ideas

The

Romantic Dining

Love Issue

Quirky Weddings

How to Get a Date

ove is in the air. The Duke and perfect-coiffed Duchess of Cambridge are expecting and you can stop feeling bad for Jennifer Aniston because she is fin-uhl-ly happy.

So, what’s this mean for you? Nothing, really. You aren’t part of the Royal Family, nor have you ever demanded one million dollars per episode of your much-loved sitcom. Since you can’t afford a private, 13-course meal at a five-star restaurant, where do you go? Luckily, there are plenty of affordable and unique places in West Michigan that fit your dating style. Read on for more on dates, fashion for every relationship status and some ways (WARNING: Not all good) to get a date. REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Love Issue

So, You’re Engaged The ring’s on and shown off. Where do you go from there? Here are some ideas for a unique wedding experience. By Lindsay Patton-Carson

Top: Hit the beach with My Barefoot Wedding. Photo: Bryan Paul Right: Custom Dresses by Vue Design Above: Get your name in lights at Wealthy Theatre. Photo: Jon Clay 24 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

For the low-maintenance couple ‘Wham, bam, thank you ma’am’ is how this couple likes to get things done. For those in favor of no-frills nuptials, head to the local county clerk to make things official, then get on with the rest of your lives. In West Michigan, there’s the Kent County Clerk (300 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids), Ottawa County Clerk (414 Washington Ave., Grand Haven), Kalamazoo County Clerk (201 West Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo) and the Muskegon County Clerk (141 East Apple Ave., Muskegon). You’ve got your location, now you need to bring the goods in order to apply. First, moolah. It’s $20 for residents, $30 for non-residents. Second, you need to bring your I.D. to prove your age and address and social security numbers. Third, your birth certificate. In three days, the license is ready. (You know, so the courts don’t have to deal with that 55-marriage business Britney pulled.)

For the thespians Turn your wedding into the production of the year with some help from Wealthy Theatre. Display your names on the marquee because it’s your day and you get to be the stars. Bring stage props and set the scene for West Michigan’s most talked-about production: Your wedding. Wealthy Theatre makes it easy to book your big day with its online reservation. “Weddings are usually fun for us because people who choose Wealthy Theatre have thought out the theatre … Usually, it’s more than needing the space, they want this space,” said Erin Wilson, theatre director. “People also really enjoy having their new name on the marquee.” First, you have to be a Community Media Center member. Not already? No biggie. A membership is $36 a year and it not only gets you a Tony Award-worthy wedding, but CMC perks throughout the year. Next, build your wedding. The price is based on how simple or extravagant you want your day to be, with sound and lighting included in your package. You can also opt for an in-house DVD recording of the spectacle, which costs between $150 and $200.

Get it all done in one stop

oDiv (40 Monroe Center NW, Grand Rapids) makes it easy for any couple looking to get things done fast and the way they want. The space features four businesses that have customized services to make your wedding unique to your personality. Start out at 6.25 Paper Studio, where the bride and groom (or bride and bride or groom and groom) work with Owner Abbey Fowler to create custom invitations, place cards, seating charts, thank you cards, save the dates and more. Whatever you can imagine, Fowler can help bring to life. If dress hunting has you burnt out, maybe it’s best to have a hand in creating your own. Shannon Gales, who owns Vue Designs helps brides “create a gown that’s unique to them based on their desires of the day,” she said. Brides have options to work directly with Gales to create a custom dress or pick from the more affordable mix-and-match options available in the

boutique. Schedule your appointment by visiting vuedesign.net. Get the goodies at RitaGirl’s, which creates specialty cakes and sweet treats. Cakes come in classic white, chocolate and yellow, as well as more daring flavors such as red velvet, lemon, brown butter, cinnamon vanilla bean and apple spice. Mix it up even more with fillings that include coconut crème, chocolate ganache, raspberry, café latte, blueberry lavender, peanut butter, lemon cream, salted caramel and key lime cream. Put the finishing touches on your wedding with bokay by Eastern Floral. “We do what we can within our means to get the bride and groom the flowers and design they want,” said Manager Cherie Jaworowicz, who works in conjunction with Eastern Floral to give the couple as many options as possible. This includes utilizing unique and different containers for arrangements, as well as pieces that include different kinds of plants in various sizes. Jawaorowicz goes all out because as she says, “It’s a one-time thing; there’s no do-over.”

For lake lovers With an outdoor wedding, you take a risk on the undependable West Michigan weather. But if it all plays out, the reward is far greater. Let the people at My Barefoot Wedding stress over the ceremony details while you keep an eye on the weather report. The company provides the photographer, officiant, decorations and has a list of beaches along the West Michigan shoreline for you to choose from. The company is currently booking for 2013 weddings and slots are filling up fast. Visit them at mybarefootwedding.com. Not the beach type? Sail the high seas (or Lake Michigan) on the Port City Princess (560 Mart St., Muskegon). This unique experience has one to three-hour cruise options for a minimum of 100 people. Price is determined on amount of guests and addons, where you can pick from a sit-down dinner or buffet, wedding cake, champagne, cocktails, a DJ that plays music of your choice, décor, bartenders and wait staff, set up and clean up. To find out more, visit portcityprincesscruises. com/wedding.

bokay by Eastern Floral

6.25 Paper Studio

Photo: Robert Michael Images

Photo: Abby Fowler

For the ballers Batter up and incorporate America’s pastime into your wedding with Fifth Third Ballpark. Exchange vows on home plate, then party at Pepsi Stadium Club, which looks out over the baseball field. Show your allegiance to the West Michigan Whitecaps and book the reception during one of the team’s 70 home games. Make your guests share what you love most as they watch the game inside the club with one of

six flat screen televisions and the in-game radio broadcast, or on the venue’s patio. Just because it’s a wedding, doesn’t mean you must be demure. Let your fandom fly and belt, scream and tough talk with the rest of ‘em. Pepsi Stadium Club rental includes 200 game tickets, with food and beverage at an additional cost. The venue is also available for booking on non-game days. For more information, contact Corporate Event Sales Manager Alanna Klomp at (616) 7844131. n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Love Issue

Off the Cuff

The Gatsby Night Club

Found

RELATIONSHIP STATUS ROUNDUP By Missy Bl ack

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

In a Relationship Still enjoying the “newness” of a partnership, this type is practicing their happily ever after by smiling, holding hands and jumping and freezing in mid-air like you see in the movies. More swooning will be had with a trip to UICA’s Quirkshop: Down & Dirty Date Night. Go Ghost-style on Feb. 14 as couples can bring their own wine and work together to create a bowl on the potters’ wheel. This low key, creative date calls for a look that’s less dressy, prepared for messy. Lover’s Lane in Wyoming has the goods you’re looking for to show off afterwards. “We have a black and white with red trimmed corset,” said Manager Melissa Miller. Featuring a garter and ruffles around the waist and chest area, this little number takes what started out as an arts and crafts night and turns it into a more adult session.

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Engaged The engaged girl has one mission: for you to be aware of her engagement and to follow that up with profound, syrupy congratulations. Donning the darling bracelets that spell out L-O-V-E in gold script at Found in Holland gets the point across pretty quickly, especially when you go to shake hands. Our lucky gal is all warm fuzzies and should be wearing her bracelet while out someplace obvious (to show off that ring). A big night is had with Opera Grand Rapids and Don Giovanni Feb. 8 and 9. Get dressed up and lose yourself in beautiful arias, mischief and romance with the tale of the unrepentant seducer Don Juan. This sexually charged masterpiece keeps the home fires burning.

Married Comfy and cozy in his relationship, the married man might not even remember that he needs to woo the wifey. Valentine’s Day comes along and it’s a splash of much-needed amoré. If he’s got to take part in all this show of emotion, it’s going to be with chocolate, possibly flowers and a bite to eat — but on his terms. Two Beards Deli in Grand Rapids is a place where a man can feel secure in his, well, manhood, as he orders The Chuck Norris roast beef sandwich for a quick Valentine’s Day lunch date. All gussied up for the occasion, the taken man sports a casual mason jar t-shirt from Off the Cuff in MoDiv, also in Grand Rapids. “Michigan and mason jars go hand in hand,” said Owner Len Ables. While in the store our married man begrudgingly snatches up some cufflinks and bowties for more glamorous occasions — lest this date doesn’t make the cut.

Love makes the world go ‘round. One look at Facebook, and you see where that love is going and how it’s mutating. Take a look at the following classifications and find out where you land for ideas on what to wear and where to go to celebrate that big thing called love. Single The single girl is advertising. She’s all smiles, hair flips and dramatic stares from across the room. On Valentine’s Day expect her to step up her game for a little romance. For the Love of Shoes is a store in Saugatuck that should put a little sexy in her step. Find something with height in a great color to get noticed then heel it on over for some big-city energy at The Gatsby Night Club in Kalamazoo. Sexy, stylish and sophisticated, this hot spot opens at 9 p.m. and has lots of singles, according to Media Manager Ryan Winfield. “The guys are going to be dressed up and it will be the best-looking crowd.” Snag a VIP area perch with bottle service and when the time is right, put those heels to work on the dance floor.

It’s Complicated Yes, indeedy. The broad that has the guts to put that out there keeps it real and knows her love life is somewhat of a wreck. This status’ cryptic arrangement is Vague-booking at its finest. Lacking confidence in love, they find it in fashion with the Park Avenue Chic Blazer from Sydney’s Boutique in Grand Rapids. The red blazer features gold studs on the shoulders and pockets for a dose of strong style. “This bold, over-the-top piece is a step up from your everyday,” said Kristian Grant, owner of Sydney’s Boutique. Very alter ego, the jacket exudes confidence and luxuriousness, harnessing that red for a great visual. Worn with some skinny jeans, this getnoticed ensemble hypnotizes those attending the post parade Mardi Gras bash at Dunes Resort in Douglas Feb. 12. n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Love Issue

How to Get a Date for Valentine’s Day (And Maybe Other Days, Too) By Joe Gasmann

You’ve spent the holidays (and possibly other days) alone, stinky and sad. No biggie; it’s a new year! Wipe the dried mayonnaise out of your scraggly beard, kick off your sweatpants and kick on your swagger.

Be a New You

There are four types of men in this world: In-shape guys, rich guys and interesting guys. Who do you want to be? In-shape guys have little to no trouble getting dates. If you happen to have turned your sadness into weight-loss motivation, you may actually be able to pull this off. Rich guys get to drive fancy cars and wear tuxedos. And interesting guys can wear slim jeans and talk about books that TV shows are based on. Since you’re in “Man Limbo” you can choose to pretend you’re any of them.

What Now?

Girls are almost everywhere and most don’t know the old you.

Because of that, finding a girl is the easiest part. Like shopping? Malls, grocery stores and flea markets all have girls at them. Was interesting guy your choice? Libraries, Black Keys concerts and farm-owned restaurants — say it with me — “ALL HAVE GIRLS AT THEM!” Feel free to find them at other places as well.

Asking Her Out

Be forewarned, this is the hardest part of the process. It’s basically a coin toss between rejection and success. I believe an honest, straightforward approach works best. For example, maybe say something along the lines of, “My job gave me this gift certificate for Golden Corral. I couldn’t possibly drink all of that chocolate alone. Care to join me, m’lady?”

You now have the tools. Take them and be fruitful. What you do is your own to work out. I recommend taking her to one or all of our amazing advertisers. Just remember: never sell yourself short and never think you’re too good for anybody, because you’re not. n P.S. I realize this article is heavily slanted toward our male demo. For that, I apologize. Girls, you shouldn’t need my help, you’re a girl. But I, nevertheless, will give you the only advice I can. Keep being a girl and always don’t not be a girl*. We are your slaves. *Statement to be ignored if transgendered / Transsexual / bi-gendered / non-gendered / asexual / etc. / etc.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

SURPRISE YOUR VALENTINE WITH THE GIFT OF SIGHT!

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Michael L. Keil, D.O., FAOCO 2500 E. Beltline SE, Suite C Grand Rapids, MI info@keillasik.com (616) 365-5775

Gilly’s Tavern: Pork Tenderloin

Dining with Your Darling By Lauren Longo and Carly Plank

Bravo! Restaurant and Cafe Enjoy Bravo!’s comforting, roaring fireplace with your love and sip wine or handcrafted beer in a warm and inviting ambiance. This eatery has a flair for hearty classics such as chicken marsala, Lake Superior Whitefish and vast selections of Italian entrees (including gluten free pasta options). Call ahead for reservations. / 5402 Portage Rd., Portage; bravokalamazoo.com, (269) 344-7700

Circle Theatre’s Sweet and Bubbly This annual event features a wealth of options to satiate your palate, including champagne and chocolate tastings to accompany a plated dinner. Your conversation will not fall victim to any of the dreaded awkward pauses, as live entertainment is provided by the Circle Performers. Reservations are required, and the price ranges from $75 per person to $400 for a table of eight. / Centennial Country Club, 3361 Charlevoix Dr. SE, Grand Rapids; circletheatre.org, (616) 456-6656

Grand Rapids; grandwoodslounge.com, (616) 451-4300

Houlihan’s Restaurant and Bar After indulging in any of three select steak dinners, receive a complimentary lobster tail or shrimp dish with the special Valentine’s menu. An evening of wine, microbrews, fresh bread, artisan cheeses, prime steak and seafood choices will please both sexes on Valentine’s Day. Reservations are recommended. / 1968 Breton Rd. SE, Grand Rapids; houlihans.com, (616) 957-1683

Reserve Enjoy Executive Chef Matthew Millar’s Valentine’s Day menu and take advantage of a complementary glass of Mawby’s Sex accompanying the menu. The offer extends Feb. 13-16, so busy couples can partake in a romantic night of their choosing. Reservations are recommended. / 201 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids; reservegr. com, (616) 855-WINE

Gilly’s ups the ante this Valentine’s Day with a comprehensive menu including special appetizer selections from ravioli to rangoons. Mouthwatering entrees range from the vegetarian cheese-stuffed portabella to grilled duck, steak and seafood. Finish off the feast with a classic strawberry shortcake or the more exotic berry almond parfait. Call for reservations. / 20 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids; thebob.com, (616) 356-2000

Grand Woods Lounge Cozy up next to one of Grand Woods’ fireplaces and enjoy a Valentine’s dinner for two. The special runs Feb. 14-16 and is $44.95 per couple. Call for menu details. / 77 Grandville Ave. SW,

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

Gilly’s Tavern at the B.O.B.

San Chez Bistro Bring your special someone to San Chez’s Dinner in the Dark, where staff blindfolds guests and serves a secret menu with alcoholic pairings. The secrecy will excite your senses and awaken your tastebuds for a flavorful experience. Dinner is $65 per person, starts at 7 p.m. and you must be 21 or older. Call ahead for reservations. / 38 Fulton St.W, Grand Rapids; sanchezbistro.com, (616) 774-8272 n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Love Issue

Date Nights Grand Rapids

By Lindsay Patton Carson Rock Date If your current dates are becoming a little uninspired, consider taking your sweetheart to see The Pink Floyd Experience at The Orbit Room (2525 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, Grand Rapids) for a heady dose of creativity. While nothing compares to the real deal, still expect to be dazzled with the same theatrical, visual and musical combination the gods of psychedelic rock themselves began nearly 50 (Really? 50!?) years ago. Before you stimulate your senses, stop by Vertigo Music (129 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids) and sift through the seemingly endless crates of vinyl.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

History Buff Date Turn into two of cinema’s greatest lovers when you visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition (Feb. 9-July 7). Promise your Jack that you’ll “never let go” while you browse more than 150 artifacts and room recreations from the tragic 1912 ship. After, head over to Cottage Bar, Grand Rapids’ oldest operating bar and restaurant. Flippin’ burgers since 1927, this restaurant got attention in 2010 when its Cottage Burger made USA Today’s top burgers list. Finish your date with a pint at Grand Rapids Brewing Company. Opened in 1893, GRBC served up its famous Silver Foam until Prohibition shut down the brewery. It reopened on 28th Street in 1993, closed in 2011 and opened back up again in 2012 under new owner Barfly Ventures, along with a new location, menu and beer recipes, including a new twist on Silver Foam.

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Classy Date Take a break from the plebian lifestyle and add some class to your life, if only for one night. On Feb. 22 and 23, get gussied up for Grand Rapids Symphony Presents An American in Paris at DeVos Performance Hall (303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids). This classical series gives attendees a worldly experience with pieces such as Gershwin’s “An American in Paris,” Respighi’s “Fountains of Rome,” John Adams’ “City Noir” and more. Tickets start at $18 for the 8 p.m. show. Afterwards, step next door to Reserve (201 Monroe Ave., Grand Rapids) and choose from dozens of wine by the glass or bottle to sip on.

Mushy Date You’re in love and you want everyone to know it. While your affections may be annoying, they certainly are not a crime. Go forth with your lovey-dovey selves and create an experience only you two mush-heads would enjoy. Treat your relationship like a Channing Tatum movie and splurge on the Romance Plus Package at Amway Grand Hotel. The package offers overnight accommodations, a bottle of wine, a $50 food voucher, truffles, use of the Plaza fitness center (to work on those Tatum pecs), valet and a 1 p.m. checkout so you can spend your morning doing, you know, romance movie things. Rates start at $209.

Anti Mush Date Love is how you describe your feelings for pizza, not another person. And when it comes to dates, the simpler and sloppier the better. Glitz, glamour and mush is too much work, so take that person you often hang out with to Yesterdog (1505 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids) and get messy. Making a good impression is overrated and Yesterdog knows this. Dig into a Killerdog and don’t worry about the onions that fall onto your shirt or the chili dripping down your chin. From there, head to The Meanwhile (1005 Wealthy St., Grand Rapids) where you can sit in a dark corner and down some Michigan beer or get competitive with pinball.

Young Again Date We all remember the carefree feeling from time spent on a trampoline. Sky Zone (3640 29th St., Kentwood) takes that feeling and multiplies it by at least a billion. This indoor trampoline park is your childhood on speed with seemingly endless trampolines on the floor and even the walls so you can literally bounce off the walls. Prices range $9-$20 for 30-120 minutes of jump time. Better yet? You can reserve your time and buy tickets online at skyzonesports.com/ grandrapids. So get in the mood to rediscover that young-love feeling with a little childhood throwback.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Love Issue

Date Nights Kalamazoo

By Jayson Bussa

First Date Eclectic Date

Funny Date Two legendary comedians will grace Kalamazoo only a week apart. Paula Poundstone returns to the Kalamazoo State Theatre (404 South Burdick) on Feb. 8. The witty Poundstone totes a hilarious brand of observational comedy that has been making bellies jiggle for decades. Kathleen Madigan will then take stage at Miller Auditorium (2200 Auditorium Dr.) on Feb. 15. This comedy veteran has been perfecting her craft for 22 years and was named Funniest Female Stand-Up Comic at the 2006 American Comedy Awards.

Sporty Date

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Nothing says love like watching a Canadian goon punch some guy’s teeth out. This Shakespearian fantasy can be shared by you and your significant other at a Kalamazoo Wings game, held at Wings Stadium (3600 Vanrick Dr.). On Valentine’s Day, the ice will be pink, but not from blood. The Wings are dying the ice pink for the Valentine’s Day Pink Ice game, ya dingus.

Cheap Date Outdoor skating rinks are a romantic staple during the winter and to get out and pretend like Michigan’s bone-chilling weather is not miserable won’t break the bank, either. Portage’s Millennium Park (280 Romence Rd.) offers a discounted $3 skating fee and $2 rental fee on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Rink hours vary by day and are listed on the park’s website. On Valentine’s Day, the park will hold a Valentine’s Skate Date between 6 and 8 p.m. at $10 per person.

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There is no law that says you can’t learn something on a date. Stroll through the annals of aviation history at a real hidden gem: the Air Zoo (6151 Portage Rd., Portage). The museum features a number of interactive displays, such as full-motion flight simulators and other rides. General admission to Air Zoo is $10.

Young Again Date If you can’t have fun spending a day bowling, riding go-karts and playing laser tag, then reexamine your life. Airway Lanes & Fun Center (5626 Portage Rd., Portage) has all that and more. From mini golf, bumper cars and arcade, to the aforementioned attractions, Airway has everything you need to get in touch with your inner child. When it’s time to act your age, Airway also has a lounge you can kick back in with some adult beverages and adult-er conversations.

Grease those first-date wheels with some beer at Kalamazoo Beer Exchange (211 East Water St.). The Beer Exchange combines a laundry list of delicious Michigan microbrews with a wide selection of food. Beers are sold per the rules of the New York Stock Exchange — the more in-demand a beer is for that night, the higher the price will be, and vice versa. Scoring a premium brew on the cheap takes some scheming. Periodically, the market will “crash,” causing the price of every beer to plummet and the double-fisting to commence.

Mushy Date When it comes to fine dining in the Zoo, it doesn’t get much better than Zazio’s Italian Restaurant, located in the Radisson Plaza Hotel and Suites. We’re talking high-class wining and dining. The most coveted seats in the restaurant are at the chef’s table, which offers a five-course dinner and wine pairings along with interactions with the chef. These spots go quick, so call … like … right now.

Anti Mush Date If the phrase “Hey baby, let’s go pound some PBR and listen to punk music” is your idea of a picku p l i n e, L o u i e’s Trophy House and Grill (440 East North St.) is the perfect date destination. Kalamazoo has bid farewell to its share of bars and venues over the years, but Louie’s continues to be a gathering place for just about every crowd.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Love Issue

Date Nights Lakeshore

By Audria Larsen

SNOWBOUND DATE

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

If you’re an outdoorsy couple, you can heat things on up on the cool slopes at Mulligan’s Hollow (600 Mulligan’s Dr., Grand Haven). Enjoy six slopes of varying difficulty over seven acres of land and an ice rink to boot. When you’ve had enough action, you can gaze longingly at each other over cups of hot cocoa. Check out the Banners, Bowls and Brews event on Feb. 16. Although silent auctions don’t necessarily conjure sexy and romantic thoughts, this one will have flowing beer and free soup provided by local restaurants and chefs.

Sweaty Date Whoever first said “the ties that bind” may have been a hot yoga devotee. Just think, you and your main squeeze, side by side at the new Funky Buddha Yoga Hothouse Holland (12330 James St. Holland), both wrapped into perfect pretzels holding something like the “bound bird of paradise pose.” You can exchange blissful (or strained) glances at each as you realize how limber and strong you will both be, which bodes well for other, ahem, evening activities in the near future. Want to become that couple? Funky Buddha offers a $39 special to newbies that will get you an unlimited month of yoga.

Pampered Date Nothing says love like mud masks and rubdowns. At Bella Vita Spa + Suites (119 Butler St., Saugatuck) your better half doesn’t have to be metro or a diva to enjoy an overnight stay in their luxury suites. Book a deal like the Suite Retreat Package and you’ll receive a $50 voucher toward spa services along with a complimentary bottle of wine. Don’t want to stay overnight? Try a 75-minute couple’s massage.

SAPPY/THESPIAN DATE Impress your theater-minded guy or gal with tickets to Crimes of the Heart at the Muskegon Civic Theater (425 W Western Ave., Muskegon). Described as “warm-hearted, irreverent and imaginative,” the play follows the Magrath sisters as they journey from the past to the future. The play kicks off on Valentine’s Day and runs through March.

KITSCHY DATE Get wholesome and revel in Holland’s heritage at Nelis’ Dutch Village (12350 James St., Holland). “It’s family owned and operated and you get that small-town feel,” said Luke Curtis, park manager. Explore the large shops, featuring a wide array of Delftware – pretty blue and white pottery, plates and tiles like your grandma has, originating in the Netherlands. You can even order personalized Delft items like anniversary plates and marriage tiles. Take a gander at the skilled artisans, hand-carving candles in the shop. For a memorable V-day, treat yourself and your date to matching, customized, hand-decorated wooden shoes.

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LIBATION LOVER’S DATE Let’s face it; a special occasion needs a toast. Start classy at Butch’s (44 East Eighth St., Holland) and enjoy a robust entrée to share and let the knowledgeable staff guide you to a proper beverage selection. Once the formalities are out of the way, stroll over to New Holland Brewing Company (66 East Eighth St., Holland). Try the Black Tulip Belgian Tripel, which has been described as “mysterious, alluring and seductive, yet tantalizingly elusive.” If all the artisanal libations aren’t enough, round out the night at Parrot’s Lounge (234 South River Ave., Holland).

SCIENCE NERD/ STARSTRUCK DATE On Feb. 16, enjoy a dramatic date night while learning about Supernovas and Black Holes at the Winter Astronomy Program and Sky Viewing at the Nature Education Center (8115 West Olive Rd., West Olive). The event focuses on how stars die in a fiery explosion of the supernova and what it takes to become a black hole. The event is free and telescopes are provided. Although you will want to bring lawn chairs and maybe a thermos filled with something stiff to share.

REAL TO REEL: THE INVISIBLE WAR FEBRUARY 7 | 7:00 PM

$5 MEMBERS / $7 NON-MEMBERS

An investigative documentary on one of America’s best kept secrets: the epidemic of sexual assault in the US military and what can be done to bring about much-needed change. Sponsored by Clark Hill Entertainment Industry Team

INTRIGUING CONVERSATION: A CULINARY ROAD TRIP FEBRUARY 21 | 7:00 PM FREE ADMISSION

West Michigan author Jaye Beeler and photographer Dianne Carroll Burdick share their experiences traveling the state creating a “Pure Michigan” themed cookbook. Sponsored by Bill Underdown/Hungry Village Tours, Shoreline Realtors

$10 (STUDENTS & KIDS FREE) Enjoy an intimate performance of original jazz compositions and standards in our beautiful lobby. Sponsored by Rex Hempy and Alan McPhail

AN INTIMATE EVENING: JANIS IAN MARCH 9, 2013 | 8:00 PM

$35 IN ADVANCE $37 DAY OF THE SHOW

The iconic singer, songwriter and storyteller Janis Ian returns to the SCA for a one-nightonly intimate and stunning performance. This show will sell out, purchase your tickets today! Sponsored by: Hilliard Lyons of Holland, Travis & Sandra Randolph/Symbiote + Good Goods

TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION 269.857.2399 OR WWW.SC4A.ORG REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

HEMPY KEYBOARD PERFORMANCE: ELLEN ROWE FEBRUARY 17 | 2:00 PM

Love Issue

LITTLE LOVES The art of wooing is sometimes lost on adults. The children, the littles, can be much more appreciative, attentive and worthy of our time. Take your darling out for a date somewhere sure to elicit long conversations or snack on sweets. Go someplace with your child where you leave with glittery creations and where you can run around and get some fresh air. Take back the time that slips from your grasp everyday and love your child up with time reserved just for them, just for fun, just because. By Missy Black

TITANIC: THE ARTIFACT EXHIBITION

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Grand Rapids Public Museum 272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids Feb. 9 through July 7 $17-$12/adults, $12-$10/children ages 3-18, free admission/children under 3 grmuseum.org, (616) 456-3977 The Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition takes a look at more than 150 artifacts conserved from the ship’s debris field and features a poignant look at this iconic ship and its passengers. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is the perfect place to visit the exhibition and have conversations with your child on ship construction, life more than 100 years ago and the emotional connection. “Titanic, the topic, is very appealing,” said Kate Moore, director of marketing and public relations. “It was the unsinkable ship.” From preserved perfume bottles found at the bottom of the ocean (that still hold scent) to an iceberg wall (that is cold to the touch), this exhibition has great sensory cues. The best part might be the boarding pass ticket. “All of the boarding passes are gender specific and sort of guides you with information on that specific person. There is a memorial wall to see if your passenger perished or lived.” Guests may visit first-class room re-creations and see the differences between first class and third class accommodations.

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CHOCOLATE TASTING WITH PATRICIA’S CHOCOLATE Art of the Table 606 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids Feb. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Free artofthetable.com, (616) 301-1885 Patricia’s Chocolate descends upon Art of the Table for some sweet sampling right before the Valentine’s holiday. Taste the good life with the opportunity to pick up gifts for loved ones. “The nice thing about the chocolates are that they are pretty and they taste amazing. They’re all natural, fresh—with real ingredients,” says Amy Ruis, owner of Art of the Table. Chocolatier extraordinaire Patricia tells the story of her chocolates and adds in a meet-and-greet. If you’re looking for ideas, Ruis nudges you in the right direction. “I’ve eaten every single thing she makes. My favorite flavor is lemon

Patricia’s Chocolate

Titanic artifacts: Grand Rapids Public Museum

cardamom.” This event is the perfect way to kick-start the holiday and show them a little about the fine art of chocolate and how to enjoy life, one delightful nibble at a time.

“The fresh air and movement is the best part.” This healthy activity follows one big loop around the park with refreshments at the end. Tutus are optional but highly encouraged and a limited number will be available for sale for $5 on the day of the event.

TUTU RUN Spring Valley Park 2600 Mount Olivet Rd., Kalamazoo Feb. 2, 2 p.m. $10/suggested donation (give $25 or more and receive a Tutu Run t-shirt) girlsontherunkazoo.org, (269) 491-2663 Get out your tutus so you can run 2.2 miles on Feb. 2 at Spring Valley Park in Kalamazoo. Open to all ages and benefiting Greater Kalamazoo Girls on the Run, this run/walk features prizes for best overall tutu, biggest tutu, best male/ female/kid/couples tutu and fastest tutu. “Kids will like the silliness of it,” said Carrie Hybels, coordinator of 5K and special events. “It’s good to see mom and dad being silly. We’ve got lots of males already committed.” Encourage your child to prepare for the run, join them in the run, cheer them on and celebrate after. A running/ walking date is just the thing to make you feel good inside and out—and the tutu part adds a little pretty to the whole thing.

HEART TO HEART CRAFT PARTY Kent District Library/Englehardt-Lowell Branch, 200 N. Monroe St., Lowell Feb. 14, 10:30 a.m., Free kdl.org, (616) 784-2007 A good, old-fashioned craft party to make Valentine’s Day cards is just what Cupid ordered. The Kent District Library’s Englehardt Branch in Lowell offers card making. Also included are handmade picture frames and collages, as well as a snack. “We take plain sugar cookies and decorate them with red and white frosting and sprinkles,” says Lynda Austin, with KDL Youth Services. Kids will love the snack and the “goopier and messier the cookie is, the better.” Celebrate Valentine’s Day by spending time with your child, one on one where crafts and sugar collide — and not in your house! This event also happens at various other KDL branches. n

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/// Sink’s Spins on Music

by John Sinkevics

CD RELEASES Willamena

Lost in the Shadows The Fauxgrass Quartet, playing at The Jammies on Feb. 22 at The Intersection

ON THE MUSICAL RADAR

Three words of advice: Get there early. “It’s already a pretty packed event, but I would anticipate it being standing-room-only on a Friday night,” said Intersection General Manager Scott Hammontree, who describes the Jammies as one of the nightclub’s favorite events. “It should be the best one ever in terms of attendance.” It will also serve as a showcase for potential future bookings. “We love to see the local community come out and support local artists,” said Hammontree, who describes the Jammies as “a real energetic night with a room full of great people. Gives us an opportunity to take a listen to some acts that might not normally play the room, and in turn, we can try to bring some of them back on other shows.” Not only will Friday’s energy mean folks will be “more inclined to hang around until the end,” says Murphy, but it could give extra oomph to planned after-parties. It shapes up as a very late night indeed, so maybe packing pajamas isn’t such a bad idea after all. n

Singer-songwriter Karisa Wilson has been nominated this year for her latest effort, Stronger. PHOTO: BRIAN KELLY

Thirsty Perch Blues Band City Lights EP

This is Grand Rapids blues, pure and simple. Driven by Andy Ogrodzinski’s killer guitar licks and Chuck Luscombe’s soulful harp work, the Thirsty Perch outfit returns to pay tribute to its hometown’s “City Lights,” not to mention covering the usual tried-and-true blues themes. The unassuming songs just provide an open canvas for the band – Ogrodzinski, Luscombe, Chris Collins, George Ferguson and Chris Carr – to shine and muscle up instrumentally in this EP produced by Michael Crittenden and recorded at Mackinaw Harvest Music.

Music critic and entertainment writer John Sinkevics comments on the local and national music scene at localspins.com (Spins on Music), spotlighting artists at 10 a.m. Wednesdays on Local Spins Live at News Talk 1340 AM.

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Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

raditions aside, I won’t wear my jammies to The Jammies. Despite the punny practice embraced by fun-loving volunteer programmers at community radio station WYCE-FM (88.1), the world truly is better off not seeing me in my sleepwear at the annual awards show celebrating West Michigan’s vibrant music scene. But while my jammies will miss the 14th annual bash at The Intersection on Feb. 22, I won’t: It remains the single most important – and likely most musically entertaining — evening of the year, with dozens of live performances on two stages and hundreds of musicians. “It’s a total who’s who. Everyone is there,” said Karisa Wilson, Grand Rapids singer-songwriter, Jammies’ 2008 album of the year winner who’s nominated again for her latest, Stronger. And she’d attend, regardless. “I go every year. I have a good time.” That upbeat vibe never changes. But with WYCE celebrating its 25th anniversary as the region’s most eclectic radio station, one big change rocks the Jammies in 2013: For the first time, the February awards show will be held on a Friday night, rather than Tuesday. “Traditionalists who object to change of any kind have already expressed their dismay, which I take as affirmation of the move being a good idea,” said WYCE Station Manager Kevin Murphy, noting this year’s Jammies will take place the night before the popular Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival at Fifth Third Ballpark. “Since Bell’s (Brewery) is once again our main sponsor for the show, they are going to incorporate the Jammies into their official Beerfest plans for the weekend.” More important, Murphy says, the switch to Friday should “encourage more people to stay” for the entire show because they won’t worry about getting up early for work the next day. And with stellar acts such as The Crane Wives, The Go Rounds and The Fauxgrass Quartet scheduled to perform, and with more than 130 local recordings up for album of the year honors, it promises to be a night of live music folks will long remember. (Doors open at 5 p.m.; get updated information online at wyce.org.)

For 16 years, Kalamazoo’s Willamena has weathered the highs and considerable lows of the music business while churning out undeniably infectious rock. Now, it might finally capitalize on some of that breakout buzz. Tales of love’s power and shortcomings abound on this 10-track CD the four-piece band recorded in different studios around the country over seven years, getting a boost from noted Nashville producer Kevin Beamish (REO Speedwagon, Kenny Chesney, Henry Rollins) on a couple of songs, including the opening track, “When Love Rescued Me,” released to radio in midJanuary. They also tapped the talents of New Jersey producer John Seymour (U2, Dave Matthews). All that sweat equity and attention to detail paid off. Guitarist-singer Chad Hendrickson said, “We wanted to make sure this record branded Willamena for who we are and have always been: A rock ‘n’ roll band with pop influences.” Mission accomplished.

/// ON TOUR

by Dwayne Hoover

The Old Testament When the Bay Area thrash band founded, it was originally called Legacy, but the group ran into some issues when they discovered a jazz band already had the name trademarked. So they switched to Testament and called their first studio album The Legacy.

The New Testament Photo: Dean Karr

Introduction to the New TESTAMENT

Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

“Native Blood,” the album’s second single, and a nod to Billy’s ou can’t have a discussion about Native American heritage, did stand out. In fact, the music video thrash metal without bringing up Testament. for the song won Best Music Video at the 2012 American Indian The band helped define the genre in the San Francisco Film Festival. Bay Area during the early 1980s, a scene widely rec“That was pretty awesome,” Billy said of shooting the video. “I ognized as one of the birthplaces of this faster, more had the video idea in my head and wanted to bring the native aggressive take on heavy metal. culture in it. Dancers, fire, the whole thing. We shot it up on the Now the band is riding the success of its latest reservation on our property. The community really joined in; the studio recording, Dark Roots of Earth, the tenth album in its 30-year tribal council, police department, neighbors. I even history. But this album, while true to the classic met family members I never met before. The guys in Testament feel and sound, was written with more Testament wsg Overkill, the band really got to experience the energy. You felt of an inward approach, with less of a focus on what Flotsam and Jetsam, 4ARM this raw power and energy. It was pretty incredible.” others want to hear and more on what the guys were The Intersection, Grand Rapids Now the band is out on its first headlining feeling at the time. Feb. 21, 6 p.m. tour since the new album’s release, with support “This one really is one of those records that $25 advance, $28 day of show from a solid thrash metal cast consisting of Overkill, All ages when we were writing the songs we didn’t really sectionlive.com, (616) 451-8232 Flotsam and Jetsam and 4ARM. need to think about it,” said Frontman Chuck “People are really interested in this kind of packBilly. “We’d just say, ‘This feels good, let’s go with it.’ age, so we’re going to go out and slay it.” But it turns out our gut feeling was actually right.” Since Testament’s last three tours saw the band members playIndeed it was, as Dark Roots found its way to No. 12 on the ing a lot of their earlier material, they’re looking to switch it up a Billboard 200, was among Amazon’s 2012 Editor Picks, and was bit this time around. also voted iTunes’ U.S. Metal Album of the Year 2012. “There’s a whole new generation of fans out there who are “It came together pretty quick,” Billy said of the album. “There’s interested in our new stuff,” Billy said. “We’re going to focus on always those songs like ‘Native Blood’ that were written really fast. more of our modern stuff, which is cool because our new stuff You know those are the ones that are really good, when they’re there kicks ass.” n that fast. Those are the ones that always stand out.”

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The current iteration of Testament features four of the members from the band’s seminal days in the late 1980s and early 1990s, including Chuck Billy (vocals), Eric Peterson (guitar), Greg Christian (bass) and Alex Skolnick (guitar). However, Testament rivals perhaps even Spinal Tap for the number of drummers who’ve been in the band. Over Testament’s three decades, the band played with more than a dozen drummers, including metal masters Paul Bostaph, John Tempesta, Dave Lombardo and Gene Hoglan — who’s currently on tour with them.

Metal Health Chuck Billy didn’t get cancer — cancer got Chuck Billy. In 2001, the Testament vocalist was diagnosed with germ cell seminoma, a rare form of testicular cancer. Only Chuck Billy’s balls were too much for some punk-ass cancer, and the disease instead attacked his lungs and heart. He could have probably done without the heart, but he needed his lungs to spew out some killer metal. So he kicked that cancer’s ass, made a full recovery and was back to metal by 2003.

Top Testament “Alone in the Dark,” “Trial by Fire,” “The Ballad,” “Souls of Black,” “Electric Crown,” “Hail Mary,” “True Believer” — Joe Boomgaard

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/// on tour

Candlebox No Longer ‘Far Behind’ | by Nick Manes

Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

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egendary journalist Hunter S. Thompson once said, “San Francisco in the late ‘60s was a very special time and place ... there were sparks in any direction.” This could also be said of Seattle in the early 1990s. Bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden and Alice in Chains made a name for themselves that still rings out. Despite being the “red-headed stepchild of the [Seattle grunge] scene,” as Lead Singer Kevin Martin puts it, Candlebox did a lot to progress that era of music, and continues to this day. “We have just kind of grown musically. We have become better songwriters,” Martin said. “We became talented musicians rather than young kids with no concept of what we’re doing with our lives.” Despite the band members’ growth as artists and their contribution to a fabled time of music history, Martin is Candlebox The Orbit Room, Grand Rapids still hesitant to lump Candlebox in with many of the most Feb. 7, 7 p.m. famous Seattle grunge acts. $20 advance, $25 day of show “We are quite a bit younger in age than [those bands]. 16+ I was 19 when I started the band with [drummer Scott orbitroom.com, (616) 942-1328 Mercado] ...There were so many bands that were good. You could go out four or five times a week and see a great show, which to me was like being in New York City in the ’70s,” Martin says of the Seattle scene. Having released its self-titled first record — which includes the classic hit “Far Behind” — in 1993, this year marks Candlebox’s 20th anniversary. In April of 2012, the band released its fifth studio record, Love Stories & Other Musings. While touring extensively on their new record, Candlebox is also playing the debut album in its entirety at all stops. One of those stops will be The Orbit Room in Grand Rapids on Feb. 7. Martin said the band will be playing some songs it hasn’t played live in more than a decade. “We haven’t done that since 1993,” Martin said about playing the band’s debut. “1994 was the last time we played that album from top to bottom.” Despite having achieved international success in their own right, Martin still has pangs for the grunge days of Seattle in 1992. “I would love to tour with Soundgarden. It would be pretty cool to see Candlebox and Soundgarden mix.” n

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Visual Art

by Alexandra Fluegel

Other Arts Events Live Coverage

UICA, Grand Rapids Feb. 16, 6-11 p.m. Call for admission price uica.org, (616) 454-7000 More than 50 local artists break out of their attics, basements and back-alley studios to produce new works at one of the UICA’s most popular events. Live Coverage allows attendees to catch a glimpse of the creative process and bid on pieces in live and silent auctions. It will be the first year the event is held in the organization’s new space, making this a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Sight and Feeling: Photographs by Ansel Adams

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Through May 19 $5, Free for members kiarts.org, (269) 349-7775 Work from one of America’s most celebrated photographers is on display at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. Known best for his black-and-white nature photographs of the American West, Adams’ work is instantly recognizable. The exhibition from the KIA collection suggests how his intuitive and emotional response to the landscape resulted in powerful and enduring photographs.

Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic

Surprised to learn that the American Museum of Magic is located in Marshall, Mich.? Get a glimpse of some of the institution’s treasures, including more than thirty stunning graphic visuals and objects related to legends such as Thurston, Houdini, and Michigan’s own Harry Blackstone, Sr. The exhibition will also include a Chamber Music Series performance by some of GVSU’s student performance groups on February 18 from 8-9pm.

Gaspard Gallery: New Kids on the Block

ve n u e f o r th e Arts n ewb i e Gas pard Galle ry has definitely hit the ground running. The artist-run gallery, which held its first exhibit during the 2012 ArtPrize competition, has been host to some stunning photography exhibits that exude a sophistication seldom seen in galleries just starting out. This month, bodies of work from local talents Leah Schreiber and Laura Hobson focus on abstraction in multiple mediums using deconstructed and re-purposed subjects. Large scale drawings and naturally dyed textile work will be highlighted in selected works. “We are really excited,” said Chris Cox, one of the gallery’s coordinators. Laura Hobson and “Coming off of two photography exhibiLeah Schreiber tions, it feels really good to present some Opening Reception different mediums.” Gaspard Gallery Schreiber and Hobson were selected 235 S. Division Ave., Apt. 111 for a number of reasons, Cox said. Feb. 7, 7–11 p.m. Free! “Both artists are working within gaspardgallery.com their given mediums in ways that make you think about the works in a different way than you would normally view a drawing or textile piece,” he said. “The works have the ability to transcend association to the medium and allow the viewer to see with fresh eyes.” He added that this is the type of work he and the gallery’s two other coordinators, Jacob Bullard and Ben Biondo, are searching for when they plan shows. “These are works that have longevity, they are beautiful and interesting when you look at them, but they then force the viewer to stay longer and dig into the works.” Overall, the gallery aims to showcase work that is challenging and steers away from art that is purely for decorative sake. “We are looking

for work that while visually interesting and engaging, is also grounded in a conceptual framework,” said Cox. The name Gaspard means “treasure keeper” in Persian and was something Bullard — a poet — came up with. “We believe that artwork is something to be treasured, and the gallery is, in a sense, a treasure keeper,” Cox said. “We have seen gallery spaces that have work from the floor to the ceiling and found it to be a bit distracting. We want the gallery to be a place where nearly all distractions can be removed and the viewer can devote honest attention to the work. Giving work more breathing room and not crowding the space allows the viewer to comfortably view each piece and give the attention it deserves.” Bullard, Biondo and Cox are recent college graduates and say the goal of the gallery is to provide a space for art viewers, contemporary artists and art collectors alike. Cox said Grand Rapids can often be overlooked when it comes to buying contemporary art with collectors opting for Chicago or New York, but with more galleries offering stronger exhibitions, those tides can begin to change. “Artwork is at many times beautiful and entertaining, but Gaspard exists for more than just beauty and entertainment. Gaspard exists to actually have serious conversations about art and culture, and we hope the gallery can start some new conversations in Grand Rapids.” n

Scene | Sounds | Sights Diing | Schedule

GVSU Art Gallery 1121 Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus Jan. 14–March 20 Free! gvsu.edu/artgallery, (616) 331-2563

Above: A work by Leah Schreiber. Below: A Laura Hobson painting.

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by Kyle Austin

Lit Life

Ted Fox Is Laughing at Us All

ed Fox is a wiseass, but if it weren’t as a platform for their humor, the challenge is to remain for life’s little ironies, he never would have funny with fewer words and stiffer competition. Along with his Twitter account (@AuthorTedFox), thought to make a living as one. After graduating with a degree in economics from Notre he counts a website (tedfoxisawesome.com) and a few Dame, he was lucky enough to land his blogs among the tools he uses to convey his highly relatable brand of humor. He is currently at dream job at ESPN, only to find it nothing work on a book, tentatively titled 33: Jesus, short of nightmarish. Belushi, Farley, and Me, which pokes fun at “It was a classic case of, ‘If you like the propensity of humans to reassess their sausage, don’t visit the sausage factory,’” priorities as they near middle age. For Fox, Fox said. that meant compiling a list of the 33 things In need of a fresh start, he took a writing (all awesome, of course) he must do before job in the public relations department of he dies. his alma mater and realized that it wasn’t “It’s almost like this Eat, Pray, Love kind too late to rediscover his passion for funny of thing,” he said. “But I’m a humor writer, business. Countless hours of spare time, Meet Humorist and unlike Eat, Pray, Love-lady, I actually an agent and an unpublished book later, a Ted Fox like my life, so I don’t want to throw it all humor writer was born. Barnes and Noble, away.” You Know Who’s Awesome? Not You is a Holland Offline, Fox uses public appearances as collection of savagely witty tweets that exFeb. 2, 1 p.m. an opportunity to further connect with his plore humanity in all its idiosyncratic glory. tedfoxisawesome.com, audience. At the three events he’s been a The concept arose from a series of posts on (616) 994-6015 part of so far, he’s relished the opportunity Fox’s blog, each one probing the ridiculousto meet and connect with people who reness of a different social paradigm, which caught the eye of an agent who thought a collection of ally get what his writing is all about. At the heart of his them could work well in book format. She shifted Fox’s comedic approach lies the kind of self-examination that online focus to Twitter and helped him build a substan- each of us needs in order to stave off self-destruction. “It’s being able to laugh at ourselves, to relieve that tial following and enough material to entice publishers. Fox claims he wouldn’t have reached anyone without stress and pressure,” he said. “That’s where humor really social media. With more comedians using the medium has value.” n

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

Other Literary Events Hope Visiting Writers Series: Shane Book and Mat Johnson

Knickerbocker Theatre, Downtown Holland Feb. 7, 6:30 p.m. hope.edu, (616) 395-7403

Poet Shane Book and novelist Mat Johnson share their work, experiences and insights at a free author talk. Book is a graduate of the renowned Iowa Writers’ Workshop and his poetry has earned significant critical acclaim. Johnson has published three novels, a non-fiction novella and two comic books. Together they will bring audience members an enlivening and enlightening evening, the standard for the Hope Writers’ Series. A free jazz concert, beginning at 6:30, will precede the presentation.

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A Lacks Family Presentation by David Lacks

Fetzer Center Auditorium, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo Feb. 11, 4:30 p.m. wmich.edu, (269) 387-1000

When Rebecca Skloot published her nonfiction book, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, in 2010, few people knew anything about Henrietta Lacks besides the contributions her cells had made to science. It wasn’t until the book became one of the year’s best-selling titles that the story of Henrietta Lacks, the person, came to the forefront. David “Sonny” Lacks, Henrietta’s son, worked closely with other members of the Lacks family and Ms. Skloot to ensure the book’s accuracy and effectiveness, and in the years following, he has traveled the speaking circuit to help readers connect with the story of Henrietta’s life in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Grand Valley Writers Series: Patricia Clark and Chris Haven

Cook-DeWitt Auditorium, Grand Valley State University, Allendale Feb. 12, 4 p.m. gvsu.edu, (616) 331-5000

GVSU welcomes two of its own to the stage in the second event of the current Grand Valley Writers Series. Former Grand Rapids Poet Laureate Patricia Clark and Chris Haven are both accomplished writers and members of GVSU’s English faculty. With a plethora of writing, editing and teaching experience between them, they will share their work and speak about the challenges of maintaining the balance between professional and creative pursuits.

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by Allison Parker

On Stage Don Giovanni, Feb. 8-9, DeVos Performance Hall.

Other Performing Arts Events Caroline, or Change

WMU Theatre, Kalamazoo Feb. 1–3 and 8–10; show times at 2, 7 and 8 p.m. / $5–$20 wmich.edu/theatre, (269) 387-6222 Amidst the turmoil of the Civil Rights Movement, mistreated black maid Caroline fights for dignity and respect. Realistic and fantastic elements combine as the stalwart single mother develops a special relationship with the needy child of her Jewish employer. As the friends surmount humiliation and heartache, their journey often provides flashes of inspiration and hope. But even changing times are ultimately unable to free Caroline from racial inequality, and eventually she must sacrifice her own pride to support those she loves. Sensational Motown and blues numbers bring this Tony-nominated musical to a tragic crescendo.

Opera Grand Rapids Delivers Sensational Musical Treat

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

“Mozart is one of the most famous composers who ever lived, n e o f o p e ra’s b i g g e st bad b oys and his operas, in my opinion, are some of his best works. He liked seduces the stage in Opera Grand Rapids’ production opera and did lots of work with different types of music for different of Mozart’s masterpiece, Don Giovanni. Black humor types of characters. [Giovanni’s servant] Leporello’s musical style is and sexual energy blend in this dark tale of a flagrant womanizer who stands defiant even in the face of hell. a lot simpler and a lot slower to make him seem like a bumbling guy, while Don Giovanni’s is a more lyrical, higher type of composition Edgy and fast-paced, the show appeals to opera ... Even if you don’t know what type of person buffs and newcomers alike. a character is, you can tell through the music.” “Even people who do not know much about While the characters are complex and rich, opera could enjoy the show because it moves Don Giovanni the nature of the performance — as well as a pretty quickly and is something that really DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids stellar cast — promise plenty of opportunities for Feb. 8–9, 7:30 p.m. appeals to a younger audience,” Production $21–98; students/seniors 50 percent off these diverse characters to shine their brightest. Manager Claire Root Benson said. operagr.com, (616) 451-2741 “This is a traditional ensemble piece. Some Although current and relevant, the show operas have a very large chorus and just a few preserves the opera’s historical authenticity by stars, but this is heavy on the lead and light on offering a classical telling. the chorus. It’s a very cool cast and we are excited about them. “We are really doing a pretty traditional presentation,” Root There is a lot of comic relief such as the relationship between Don Benson said. “It’s set in Seville in the seventeenth century, and the production will be for all intents and purposes set there … Giovanni and Leporello, which I always tell people are like Lefou and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast … I think the singers will pull which I think is the really smart way to do it for the characters off that relationship really well.” n because it is important who is upper and who is lower class, and that doesn’t always translate so well into modern times.” The show’s most enduring appeal for Root Benson, however, is the wonder of Mozart’s music and the rich, humorous characters it develops.

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Hair

Miller Auditorium, Kalamazoo Feb. 26–27, 7:30 p.m. / $25–$55 millerauditorium.com, (269) 387-2300 Political protest and sexual revolution take center stage in the gritty rock musical, Hair. Often considered one of the most controversial Broadway musicals, the show is unafraid of using profanity, drugs and nudity to explore sensitive issues of naturalism and freedom. The story centers on the lives and loves of an exuberant, bohemian hippie tribe fighting against Vietnam conscription. As the tribe struggles to find peace in the midst of chaos, musical favorites “Aquarius,” “Let the Sun Shine In” and “Good Morning, Starshine” bring irresistible excitement and energy.

Monty Python’s SPAMALOT

Wharton Center, East Lansing Feb. 1, 8 p.m. / $28–$63 whartoncenter.com, (517) 432-2000 Outrageous silliness and clever slapstick abound in this smash rip-off of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table takes the stage as never before alongside Vegas showgirls and killer rabbits. Jabs at Broadway, homophobia, divas and more accompany Arthur as he sets out on a delightfully ridiculous quest for the Holy Grail. Don Quixote, the Knights Who Say Ni and God are just a few of the colorful characters Arthur and the gang meet along the way.

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Missy Black’s

STYLe NOTeS

Spring fashion shows with a nod toward origami don’t come along every day. Hit that and the new soap deli store and consider your life charmed.

ruise your closet for a LBD and something red because two themed parties hit Grand Rapids, and clothing is key. On Feb. 7, Cygnus 27 (187 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) hosts the 2nd Annual Red Party. The event partners with Valentine Vodka out of Detroit for a night of specialty cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and dancing in a sea of red. “It’s a fun, high-spirited night. We encourage people to wear their best red or Valentine-inspired outfits,” Andrew Bowen, Associate Director of Food and Beverage at Amway Hotel Corporation said. Also this month, the JW Marriott (235 Louis Campau Promenade NW, Grand Rapids) hosts the Little Black Dress Party for those that are in love or looking for love. General Manager George Aquino’s mid-winter recipe for rejuvenation involves a, “little black dress, drinking and dancing” among sharp-dressed partygoers in cocktail attire. Just a little bit of style for those long winter nights.

Grand Rapids has a soap deli and if you ask owner Russ Crawford, his first business idea was a cheese shop. Working as an intelligence contractor for the U.S. military, Crawford stumbled upon some soap-related information in Afghanistan and his cheese shop dream turned into a soap store. Pause and let that sink in. The Soap Deli (1600 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids) offers organic, handcrafted soaps for the discerning — oh, and they’re out there. Here’s the concept: visit the store’s deli wall and glass front deli case for an introduction to the more than 60 varieties of soap in natural, organic or goat’s milk selections. It’s cut to order right there for the size you desire. Other accoutrements include bath bombs and loofah soaps. The store wants to feed your skin naturally with sweet selections of crème brulee, mint chocolate, lavender choices and, for the guys, a burnt orange patchouli.

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

Urban Exchange (926 Fulton St. E, Grand Rapids), the fetching urban consignment boutique in Grand Rapids will be offering a Consigner Appreciation promotion in February with consigners receiving exclusive discounts. The shop will be accepting spring goods starting Feb. 1. Ever drop off your clothing? You earn 40 percent from consigned goods and are put onto an e-mail list to be the first to hear about privileged information others wait their whole lives for. I tease, but February might be the month to become a regular.

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Fashion and paper collide at Kendall College of Art and Design’s 1001 Sheets: Bodies of Art Soap Deli’s offerings. 2013 Spring Fashion Show. Held at The Goei Center (818 Butterworth St. SW, Grand Rapids) on March 1 at 8 p.m., this show features student designers from all different departments at Kendall collaborating for a show comprised completely of paper. We’re talking artist-grade paper, watercolor paper, children’s graph paper, even industrial paper (meat-packing paper). “Pretty much anything that falls under the category of paper that stays within the color palette so people don’t lose sight that it is paper [is fair game],” said Katie Wright, president of the Bodies of Art Fashion Alliance. The origami-inspired show puts focus on paper’s abilities and the many ways it can be folded and cut. “Contemporary, minimal and geometric,” is how Wright describes this fine arts fashion show. In conjunction with the show Kendall colle g e o f a r t a n d D e s i g n ’ s will be a gallery displaying the works of photographer Claire Lea. Lea’s high-fashion photo shoot Bodies of Art Presents inspired the Bodies of Art theme. Visit kcad.edu for more information. 1 0 0 1 S h e e ts , A s p r i n g f a s h i o n s h o w friday, 3-1-13 Goei Center 7:00PM Entry, 8:00PM Showtime Complementary Valet Parking

Including: Works and Photography by Claire Lea

1001 Sheets, a fashion show at Kendall College of Art & Design.

i heart ipanema (115 West Lovell St., Kalamazoo) has your back when it comes to getting your Valentine’s Day look set. The fashion and record store is offering a LOVE Yourself Ladies’ Night event on Feb. 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. Wardrobe stylists are at the ready, as well as a makeup artist/hair stylists from Folio Salon to give you pointers on what’s hot. KZOO Bra Ladies will be doing bra fittings as another fun prep for Valentine’s that night. Dream come true? Believe it or not, but a massage therapist will pamper guests so you can shop after a massage — all blissed out and relaxed. “Ladies can take some time for themselves, feel good about themselves and love themselves,” says Owner Nicole Angelo. What you get: wine, snacks, swag bags and the chance to prep and primp for the most romantic night of the year all while listening to fabulous music. Check out the store’s Facebook page or ring them up at (269) 382-4423 to RSVP. Make it a girl’s night out and party at the store while perfecting your Valentine va va voom. n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

by Josh Spanninga

Comedy At The B.O.B. Grand Rapids, MI 616.356.2000 www.thebob.com

DAN CUMMINS Jan. 31 - Feb. 2

SHANE MAUSS February 7 - 9

JUSTON MCKINNEY

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

February 14 - 16

KEVIN POLLAK

February 21 - 23

TOM SIMMONS Feb. 28 - Mar. 2

THEGILMORECOLLECTION.COM

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Paula Poundstone Readies Herself for Smooth Comedic Sailing

aula Poundstone makes being funny se e m e ffortless. Whether she’s providing commentary as a panelist on NPR’s new quiz show, “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me!,” performing stand-up or simply having a casual conversation, she nonchalantly drops jokes left and right like it’s second nature. Poundstone began her comedy career in 1979 performing at the Ding Ho Comedy Club, a venue that helped jumpstart the careers of Bobcat Goldthwait, Denis Leary and others. After a while Poundstone, wanted to branch out. “I took a Greyhound bus around the country to see what other clubs were like and I ended up in San Francisco for a few years, before I came down here to stupid Southern California.” Poundstone has been performing comedy non-stop since then, often in her signature outfit of a suit and tie, an ensemble somewhat inspired by Lucille Ball and Diane Keaton in Woody Allen’s Annie Hall. Paula Poundstone “I can’t believe men have comKalamazoo State Theatre plained about it all these years, because Feb 8, 8 p.m. the truth is, it’s just so easy,” she said $24.50-$35 about her sexually ambiguous wardrobe. kazoostate.com, (269) Aside from stand-up, Poundstone 345-6500 worked on multiple projects, from writing her book, There’s Nothing in This Book That I Meant to Say, to guest spots on “Cybill,” various TV comedy specials and spots on Letterman and Jay Leno. In 1999, Poundtsone provided the voice for the character Paula Small on the animated show “Home Movies,” a job she says she took on because, “It’s easy ... I’m really drawn to the easy stuff.” She also isn’t opposed to trying her hand at feature films. “Bridesmaids just was so damn funny, and I’m like ‘Oh my god, do I wish I could be working on something like that,’ and maybe I will be later. It will probably be in an older woman role by the time I get off and on to it.” Poundstone has also been known to talk politics, appearing as a political commentator on “The Tonight Show,” though she readily admits she’s no expert.

“I am not a political analyst or historian. I really feel that I am a citizen sort of desperately hanging on, like most of us, trying to understand as much as I can in order to cast a halfway decent vote.” “I am not a political analyst or historian,” she said. “I really feel that I am a citizen sort of desperately hanging on, like most of us, trying to understand as much as I can in order to cast a halfway decent vote.” Currently, Poundstone can be heard on the weekly NPR news quiz “Wait! Wait! Don’t Tell Me!” as a panelist. “It’s a really great fit between me and them, because in so many job settings do people ask me not to say stuff, and in this job they go, ‘Say whatever you want, just jump in, just whatever!’ And that was the mandate from the very start.” On Feb. 8, fans will be able to hear Poundstone’s side-splitting stand-up, about a third of which she tries to improvise to make it “A one-night-only kind-of a thing.” And audience members better be prepared to interact. “My favorite part of the night is talking to the audience. I do the time honored ‘Where are you from? What do you do for a living?’ and in this way, little biographies of audience members emerge and I kind of use that to set my sails.” n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

by Anya Zentmeyer

FILM

February Film It’s February, West Michigan. The Season of Perpetual Holiday Gatherings is over, and all you party princes and princesses can climb back into your ivory towers and take a little time to finally shake off that holiday hangover. They say nothing takes your mind off of all those resolutions you forgot you made like turning down the lights and popping in a good indie flick. As rapper Snoop Dogg (formerly known as Snoop Lion, formerly known as Snoop Dogg) once said: “It don’t get no realer than this, dog.”

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

IN THE WORKS

Local production company Bearfruit Films just wrapped up filming in Grand Rapids for its upcoming faith-based action/drama film, Rumors of Wars. The first half of the film was shot at Cornerstone University with plans to wrap up the second half of filming in Mississippi. Rumors of Wars follows a post-apocalyptic “new world soldier” through his discovery of a diary with research recorded by an aspiring college journalist. The diary reveals disturbing truths about the setting’s global turmoil, and ultimately prompts our protagonist to go off on his own journey and make sense of his newfound faith. The film was written and directed by Paul Tomborello, who founded Bearfruit Films along with the film’s executive producer James Simmons. Co-producer Sean Stephens said Tomborello has always been a fan of the post-apocalyptic film genre. “I think his idea for Rumors of Wars came from his fandom for this theme, as well as a strong desire to bring a redemptive theme to the movie-going public,” said Sean Stephens, who is co-producing the film alongside Patrick Werksma and Simmons. Stephens said the film appeals to at least two subsets of audiences — the ones who either enjoy the post-apocalyptic genre, and those who like “redemptive” films. Rumors of Wars aligns with the production company’s overall goal, which Mariea Luisa Macavei, who does social media and marketing for Bearfruit, says is to “bridge

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the gap between the faith-based and secular communities.” “We don’t want to be in-your-face preachy,” Macavei said. “We want to entertain and inspire our audience with films that are both creative and unpredictable with integrity in presentation.” He said the team is aiming for a limited theatrical release of Rumors of Wars this summer. Check out Bearfruit Films on Facebook, or visit the website at bearfruitfilms.com.

ON THE TOWN

(L-R): Mac Powell, Paul Tomborello and Brad Stine on the Rumor of Wars set.

Rumors of Wars in production.

Grand Rapids’ Urban Institute of Contem- the Thriller! Chiller! International Genre Film Festival’s kicks off its eighth season porary Arts gives film lovers a chance to get with Dead of Winter, a program hosted by familiar with Oscar-nominated short films T!C! on Feb. 1 at Wealthy Theatre in Grand before the titles take to the red carpet with Rapids. its 2013 Oscar Shorts series. This is the third year T!C! has announced “This series is very popular and we’re the opening of its submissions phase of the excited to have a full three weeks to run it festival through the Dead of Winter event, prior to Oscar Night — people love to see these films before the awards ceremony,” which marketing and public relations manager Shirley Clemens said also functions as a said Ryan Dittmer, film program manager “fun, off-season event for local fans.” at UICA. This year, T!C! organizers will reach The programming begins Feb. 1, with a into their archives to pull out the Best of week dedicated to Live Action, Documentary and Animation short film nominees, Fest Short Programs for 2013, and will also show trailers for some genre films by local respectively. Michigan producers with 2013 release dates. Visit uica.org for updates and more Clemens said the remainder of the proinformation. gram will feature two 90-minute international genre short films programs beginning at 7 Halloween has come and gone, but p.m. and 9 p.m. respectively with an intermisWest Michigan filmgoers can still get their sion between the two blocks. fix of spooks and scares this month when

PHOTOS: SPRUCE DERDEN

At Dead of Winter, T!C! faithfuls can purchase all-access festival passes for the 2013 film festival in advance for $25 – a 37 percent discount from the regular $40 you’ll spend next October. The event itself costs $6 per person, $5 if you’re a Grand Rapids Community Media Center or West Michigan Film and Video Alliance member. Keeping in line with tradition, Clemens said all proceeds of the event go to the Wealthy Theatre’s Sustainable Centennial Campaign. “It’s a double-your-money event for the fans, because one entry fee gets you into both programs to see a total of approximately 1520 short films and it’s also a benefit for the Wealthy Theatre,” she said. Check out more festival details online at facebook.com/thrillerchiller or visiting thrillerchiller.com. n

Warm Bodies, opening Feb. 1.

Movie///pREVIEWS by Diana Nowak

Opening FEB. 1

Warm Bodies Up-and-coming director Jonathan Levine (50/50) tells an unlikely love story that takes place after a mysterious plague has wiped out most of Earth’s population. Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, R (Nicholas Hoult) and Julie (Teresa Palmer) are determined to find a way to be together. The only problem? One of them is living and the other is a member of the living dead.

Beautiful Creatures

Opening FEB. 14

A Good Day to Die Hard John McClane (Bruce Willis) is back in another action-packed installment of the beloved Die Hard franchise, almost 25 years after its creation. This time, McClane finds himself fighting on foreign soil after traveling to Russia in the hopes of bringing his

Escape from Planet Earth 3-D

An all-star cast ( Jessica Alba, James Gandolfini, Brendan Fraser) lend their voices to this computer-animated family comedy from The Weinstein Company (Hoodwinked). When an out-of-this-world astronaut named Scorch Supernova hastily responds to an SOS call from a strange planet, he finds himself standing outside of the most bizarre structure he has ever seen: A 7-11 convenience store. It is here that top-secret members of Area 51 try to capture Scorch, sending his home planet into a state of emergency.

Opening FEB. 22

Scene | Sounds | Sights Diing | Schedule

Ethan (Alden Ehrenreich) is tired of living in dead-end town, Gatlin. It isn’t until Lena (Alice Englert) and the Duchannes family come to town that this sleepy, southern community finally wakes up. Ancient secrets buried long ago begin to resurface as Ethan falls deeper and deeper in love with Lena. Their budding romance is suddenly threatened when they learn that Lena must make a life-altering decision by her quickly approaching sixteenth birthday.

son, Jack (Jai Courtney) back to the states. When they discover a nuclear weapons heist in Moscow, Jack and John join forces to thwart what seems like an imminent world war, proving that any day is a good day for this father-son team to save humanity.

Dark Skies

The producers of Paranormal Activity and Insidious have teamed up again to bring audiences a thriller about an unsuspecting family suffering from supernatural occurrences. Lacey and Daniel Barret (Keri Russell, Josh Hamilton) feel hopeless after disturbing, unexplainable events in their suburban home threaten their son’s safety. It isn’t until they naively take matters into their own hands that they discover that they’re in deeper than they had previously imagined. n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

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Dining Restaurant listings arranged by region

Angel’s Thai Café 136 Monroe Center NW. 616-454-9801 THAI. This downtown restaurant makes your order fresh, fast, and hot. You can order your entree with your choice of meat and spice level, or create your own. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Thai Steak and Yum Talay.

BarterTown Diner 6 Jefferson St. SE. 616-233-3219 VEGAN. This workerowned-and-operated restaurant offers a variety of tasty healthy dishes fresh and hand-picked right from local family farms. Want a certain recipe or cooking lessons? Events and programs are BarterTown’s way of getting the community involved. So don’t be surprised if one day there’s Greek and Mediterranean cuisine and the next it’s all about pizza. SERVING: Breakfast (Saturday & Sunday), Lunch, Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Locally based vegan meals.

Bentham’s Riverfront Restaurant 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-774-2000 AMERICAN. Enjoy great breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert options while looking out at the Grand River. Bentham’s now offers a lunch buffet with choices of salads, breads, soups and roast beef and poultry carved to order — not to mention stir-fry stations with fresh vegetables, meats or seafood and unique sauces. Casual attire. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days, closes at 2 p.m. GO THERE FOR: Lunch buffet.

Big O Café 80 Ottawa NW. 616-451-1887 ITALIAN. The downtown (and downstairs) restaurant has a reliable menu featuring pizza, pasta, and sandwiches that are Italian and Cuban influenced. A great spot for lunch or a quick glass of wine and plate of pasta before a downtown event. SERVING: Lunch

openings and closings, editorial space, budgets, deadlines, acts of God, congressional hearings and, of course, visits and meals at restaurants throughout the region. The listings are not intended to be reviews of West Michigan restaurants, although we will inject some opinions into the listings based on experiences or the personal preferences of staff. Our intention is to expand and sharpen the content every month to make it the region’s most user-friendly and accurate dining guide. To submit or correct information

Cuisine is a hot spot for those who like to add a little flavor to their lives. With a lunch buffet served every weekday, this restaurant provides its eaters with an array of traditional Indian cuisine. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Naan, Butter Chicken.

The Bistro 11 Monroe Avenue NW (at Courtyard Marriott). 616-242-6000 AMERICAN. Serving American food bistro-style, whether it’s grab-and-go or guests dining in for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Bistro offers fresh seasonal options, serves Starbucks beverages and has a full-service bar. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches.

Bistro Bella Vita 44 Grandville Ave. SW. 616-222-4600 ITALIAN. One of Grand Rapids’ best dining experiences, featuring Mediterraneaninspired country cuisine, a swanky yet comfortable downtown atmopshere and personable service. BBV’s culinary team creates authentic, housemade recipes made with locally grown produce, fresh seafood and rotisserie roasted meats. Specialty gluten-free menu, and can prepare custom dishes for lactose intolerant, vegetarian, and vegan diets. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Mediterranean Country Cuisine and Martinis.

Blue Water Grill 5180 Northland Dr. 616-363-5900 SEAFOOD. One of Grand Rapids’ most inspired restaurants in terms of overall ambiance, with Frank Lloyd Wright-style architecture, a stunningly massive fireplace, and some of the best water views in West Michigan. The food is similarly inspired, drawing from Italian, Mediterranean and classic American influences. All the traditional favorites are accounted for with a wide variety of wood-fired pizzas, seafood, steaks, chops, salads, and sandwiches. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Grass Fed Beef.

Bobarino’s 20 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-356-2000 ITALIAN. A melting pot of food, live entertainment and fun. Live music Tuesday through Saturday, including rock, jazz, retro, country, rockabilly and more. Large game room with video games, billiards and shuffleboard. Menu includes vast array of wood-fired pizzas, plus burgers, entrées and classic appetizers. Lunch buffet with pizza, pasta, and salad for $6.45. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Wood-fired pizzas.

Bombay Cuisine 1420 Lake Dr. SE 616-456-7055 INDIAN. Offering savory and subtly spiced dishes from northern India, Bombay

Brandywine 1345 Lake Dr./2844 East Beltline NE 616-774-8641/616363-1723 AMERICAN. Both locations do brisk business at breakfast, especially on Sundays, but also offer a solid lunch and dinner menu featuring sandwiches, pasta, Mexican favorites and the legendary beehive potatoes. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Breakfast.

Bulls Head Tavern 188 Monroe NW. 616-454-3580 AMERICAN. Downtown eatery is a great spot for business lunch or casual pre-show dinner, with a wide-ranging menu that includes salads, burgers, pasta, seafood and steaks. Specialties include the ostrich burger, sashimi tuna and smoked Gouda chicken pasta. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: The Ostrich Burger.

Charley’s Crab 63 Market SW. 616-459-2500 SEAFOOD. A staple on the finedining scene in Grand Rapids. Fresh seafood, a world-class Sunday brunch and a comfortable, upscale atmosphere for drinks and dining. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Sunday brunch buffet.

Cherie Inn 969 Cherry SE. 616-458-0588 BREAKFAST. The East Hills restaurant is one of the area’s most-loved breakfast and lunch spots. A neighborhood staple for more than 60 years, the eatery offers a cozy, café-style setting complete with French flags, weathered brick walls, pressed tin ceiling, and intimate tables. Breakfast is the true star, with a variety of regular dishes like eggs Florentine and blueberry pancakes, as well as specials like red-flannel hash and almond joy pancakes. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: T W Th F Sa Sn. GO THERE FOR: Eggs Florentine.

The Corner Bar 31 N. Main St. 616-866-9866 AMERICAN. The downtown Rockford tavern serves a solid menu of burgers, burritos, salads and sandwiches, but it is best known for hot dogs — serving almost 1,000 per day. Its hot-dog-eating challenge has been conquered by more than a few, but it raises the question: Why would you want to consume Corner Bar dogs in a hurry rather than savor each bite? SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Hot dogs.

Cornucopia 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-774-2000 DELI. A refreshing option for on-the-go, or casual, lighter fare. Enjoy deli options such as homemade soups, salads, Panini sandwiches and freshly brewed gourmet coffee. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches.

Cygnus 27 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-776-6425 ECLECTIC. Enjoy the skyline as you dine atop the Glass Tower. Indulge in a variety of globally infused dishes at this AAA Four-Diamond restaurant. Casual attire; no jacket required. Private dining also available. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Seasonal Sunday Brunch.

Erb Thai 950 Wealthy St. SE #1A. (616) 356-2573 THAI. Food rooted in traditional Thai cuisine, but also made to accommodate health conscious and special diets. Not too strong, not too weak, like harmony and melody. Marketing representative Molly Rizor was a Thai virgin when she went and is now glad Erb Thai was her first experience. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays. GO THERE FOR: Peanut Curry Noodles.

Founders Brewing Company 235 Grandville SW. 616-776-1195 BREWPUB. A beer-lover’s paradise with a national reputation for flavorful, awardwinning beers. Likewise, the brewpub’s menu consists mainly of flavorful handcrafted deli sandwiches that can stand up and complement the beers (or vice versa). SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Award-winning beer, handcrafted sandwiches.

Garden Court Lounge 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-774-2000 LOUNGE. An excellent choice for a quick drink with friends or when you desire relaxing with your favorite drink. The Garden Court Lounge offers a fine array of beer, wine, cocktails and liqueurs. SERVING: Drinks OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Specialty cocktails.

Gilly’s 20 Monroe NW. 616-356-2000 SEAFOOD. Gilly’s may not be the biggest name on the seafood block, but it takes

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

Big Bob’s Pizza 661 Croswell Dr. 616-233-0123 ITALIAN. Located in Gaslight Village in East Grand Rapids (across from Jersey Junction), Big Bob’s is a cozy restaurant that serves up specialty pizzas, pastas, burritos, sandwiches and salads. Sit out on the deck and enjoy Happy Hour from 4-6 p.m. and 9p.m.-close seven days a week. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza and beer (is there a better combination?).

restaurants. Our magazine listings will constantly change and grow in scope based on

in a dining listing, please send an e-mail to editor@revuewm.com.

Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Dead Head Vegetarian Pizza, Cuban dinners on Friday nights.

Grand Rapids

REVUE’S dining listings are compiled by staff and minions. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of restaurants in the region; for our full list, visit revuewm.com/

Dining second place to no one in regards to quality, freshness and inspiration. A vast array of exotic fish is line-caught, flown in and prepared fresh daily. Every facet of Gilly’s speaks to impeccable attention to detail. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Fresh seafood at a great price.

GP Sports 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-776-6495 SPORTS BAR. Three large screens, more than 30 HD flat screens, pool tables, video games, outdoor patio seating, pizza, signature burgers and more. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays. GO THERE FOR: Score Big Burgers.

G.R.P.D. (Grand Rapids Pizza and Delivery) 340 State St. SE. 616-454-9204 ITALIAN. The current GR location opened in 2004 as the first established pizzeria in the Heritage Hill district. A common meeting spot for local folks, business professionals and college students, a place where one could gather for a quick meal or a reflective lunch. It offers both hand-tossed pizza and Chicago-style stuffed pizza, as well as pasta, sandwiches, salads, and wings. Online ordering, too. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

Grand Rapids Brewing Company 1 Ionia Ave SW. 616-458-7000 BREWPUB. Good for the environment and your palate, GRBC is Michigan’s first certified organic brewery and features a menu stocked with locally grown ingredients. With a diverse selection of beers on tap inspired by historical Grand Rapids figures and a hearty array of burgers, melts and hand-cranked sausages, this place represents the best of the Grand Rapids Brewing Company’s 120-year legacy. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Organic beer and locally sourced food.

Grand Woods Lounge 77 Grandville Ave SW. 616-451-4300 AMERICAN. The restaurant’s interior exudes a warm, casual ambiance reminiscent of the great eateries of the Pacific Northwest; the outdoor porch features two outdoor bars and a fireplace. Menu stocked with affordable appetizers great for sharing, plus salads, sandwiches, and entrées. Lots of domestics and microbrews, plus an array of martinis including the “Woodstini,” a tasty mix of Stoli Orange Vodka, mandarin oranges and raspberries. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Cocktails.

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Baked local goat cheese, Michigan maple whiskey chicken over risotto. The Holiday Bar 801 5th St. NW, Grand Rapids. 616-456-9058 AMERICAN. For 107 years, The Holiday Bar has been serving its loyal customers great beer and food, with 12 specialty beers of tap and its homemade “Porter” Pulled Pork sandwiches. Fully stocked with pool tables and nine HD flat screens, this dive is the perfect spot for cheap beer and good times.. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Cheap beer.

Harmony Brewing Company 1551 Lake Dr. SE (616) 233-0063 BREWPUB. The newest addition to the Grand Rapids brewpub scene features five craft-brewed beers in addition to signature root beer for the kiddos. Harmony’s real specialty, however, is a take-out combo that features one of its gourmet wood-fire pizzas and a growler of beer. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza and brews.

HopCat 25 Ionia SW. 616-451-4677 TAVERN. Rated the 3rd best beer bar on the planet by Beer Advcoate, HopCat’s spin on its food is thus: “It’s the food your Mom would feed you, if your Mom loved beer.” That’s specifically true for HopCat’s beerbar cheese, cheese ale soup and porter braised beef, but mom would also love the Hippie wrap (it’s vegetarian), the crack fries (not real crack), and Killer Mac and Cheese. Because what mom doesn’t like mac and cheese? SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Widest variety of beers, crack fries.

J Bar 20 Monroe NW. 616-356-2000 STEAKS. Grass-fed beef selections and an ample variety of seafood, chops and house specialties. Extensive wine cellar and tastefully upscale ambiance that’s comfortable rather than stuffy. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Choice-cut prime rib, 10-oz. Filet, 14-oz. Top Sirloin.

JD Reardon’s Bar & Grill 940 Monroe Ave NW. (616) 454-8590 AMERICAN. Neighborhood pub offers 15 Michigan beers on tap and more bottled, along with a full menu of handmade appetizers, pizzas, salads, sandwiches and 16 half-pound burgers. Nightly drink specials and karaoke on Tuesday night. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Burgers.

Graydon’s Crossing 1223 Plainfield NE. 616-726-8260 TAVERN. An authentic take on the English Pub, with a huge selection of beers on tap and a menu that includes classic English dishes like Fish & Chips, Shepherd’s Pie and Irish Stew, as well as Indian specialties like Tandoori Chicken and Tikka Masala. A great casual atmosphere for drinking and dining. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Beer and authentic pub food.

Lumber Baron Bar 187 Monroe Ave. NW. (616) 774-2000 LOUNGE. Settle into the warmth and charm of this historic bar — complete with a fireplace, leather club chairs and a large selection of premium drinks and appetizers. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays and Mondays GO THERE FOR: Scotch or Brandy after a Symphony concert.

The Green Well 924 Cherry SE. 616-808-3566 Eclectic. REVUE’s “Free Market” columnist Steven de Polo writes, “Green Well is the best restaurant in GR.” The East Hills gastro-pub serves up an ever-changing menu featuring local ingredients, and a wide array of local craft brews and wines. The green refers also to the LEED© certified building and management’s commitment to a small carbon footprint. SERVING: Lunch

Maggie’s Kitchen 636 Bridge St. NW. 616-458-8583 MEXICAN. The storefront restaurant on GR’s west side has quietly built a reputation as one of the best places in town for authentic Mexican food, especially its tacos and breakfast items like huevos a la Mexicana (scrambled eggs with onions and jalapenos). SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: T W Th F Sa Sn. GO THERE FOR: Tex-Mex.

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Marie Catrib’s 1001 Lake Dr. 616-454-4020 ECLECTIC. The East Hills eatery has one of the most hard-to-categorize menus in West Michigan, but this line from its website begins to do it justice: “a twist of Lebanese, a hint of Yooper and yen for unique pastries.” Everything is made from scratch with local ingredients, and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Get there early for lunch, as there is almost always a wait. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Salads, soups and sandwiches.

Mixology 235 Louis St. NW. 616-242-1448 LOUNGE. Casual, upscale service and atmosphere allows guests to relax and enjoy the city views. This type of service allows guests to complete business tasks while still enjoying the accessibility to great food and libations. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Specialty cocktails.

O’Toole’s 448 Bridge St. 616-742-6095 PUB. This West side pub is equipped with delicious and outrageously topped burgers, as well as an extensive beer selection, and arguably, the best happy hour specials in town. If food is not your passion, this is a prime place to kick off your Sunday Funday with its $3 Absolut Bloody Mary bar. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Gourmet burgers, Absolut Bloody Mary bar.

Olive’s Restaurant 2162 Wealthy St. SE. 616-451-8611 ECLECTIC. Gaslight Village mainstay for Easties looking to have a cocktail and casual dinner. The menu is surprisingly broad, with innovative starters (e.g., Napoli fritters, Paella cakes) and diverse entrées like Southern meatloaf, braised short ribs and mobu tofu. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: A broad selection.

The Pita House 1450 Wealthy SE, 3730 28th Street, 4533 Ivanrest SW (Grandville). 616-454-1171 MEDITERRANEAN. Gyros so big you can club someone with them, the smoothest hummus in town and other Mediterranean fare, including kibbe, kafta and falafel. Additional locations on 28th Street and Kalamazoo SE. Sandwiches are made to order with fresh vegetables and ingredients. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh pita wraps.

Reds on The River 8 E. Bridge St. 616-863-8181 AMERICAN. This highly acclaimed restaurant in the Rockford area promises no processed foods. Red’s sports a cylindrical fireplace and is known for its incredible views and outdoor dining. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays. GO THERE FOR: Steak and Wine.

Reserve 201 Monroe Ave. NW (616) 855-9463 ECLECTIC. With 102 wines available by the glass and more than 300 by the bottle, paired with an ever-changing food menu influenced by West Michigan grown foods, Reserve promises diners a unique experience. Cocktails and craft beers add depth to the primarily wine-centered menu. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday GO THERE FOR: Wine and food pairings, charcuterie.

Rockwell-Republic 45 S. Division Ave. 616-551-3563 ECLECTIC. Menu offerings range from sushi to burgers and everything in between. The cocktail menu runs the gamut from classics like the Manhattan to more modern variations and the beer and wine menus are nothing to sneeze at either. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Specialty cocktails, broad menu, lively atmosphere.

Rose’s On Reeds Lake 550 Lakeside Dr. SE. 616-458-1122 ECLECTIC. The East Grand Rapids landmark is one of those places that has a different feel in each season. In the summertime, it’s a great spot to hang on the decks and have cocktails and light appetizers; when the snow is falling, it’s a warm and cozy spot for a hearty meal and big glass of wine. The menu draws from a multitude of influences including Mediterranean, Italian, and Casual American. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Root Chips.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 187 Monroe Avenue NW. 616-776-6426 STEAKHOUSE. Serving only the best steaks, Ruth’s Chris hand-selects its steaks from the top two percent of the country’s beef, which is then broiled to perfection at 1800 degrees. Enjoy the freshest seafood, classic sides and homemade desserts that satisfy any craving. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays. GO THERE FOR: Steak.

Radix Tavern 1420 Lake Dr. SE 616-458-5583 SOUTHERN. Radix Tavern provides its diners with delicious Southern-styled food made from traditional Michigan ingredients. Using local, seasonal and sustainable products whenever possible, Radix Tavern is sure to delight its visitors with home-styled cooking, selection of beers and wines and vegetarian and vegan options. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays GO THERE FOR: Michigan beers on tap.

San Chez a Tapas Bistro 38 West Fulton St. 616-774-8272 ECLECTIC. Using available local products, San Chez a Tapas Bistro is a social setting where people can remember the one rule of kindergarten: sharing. Featuring small, delicious dishes, San Chez a Tapas Bistro can satiate your desire for variety. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Tapas.

Red Jet Cafe 1431 Plainfield Ave. NE. 616-719-5500 ECLECTIC. The funky restaurant in Creston’s old library is the kind of place you’d find in Chicago’s hip neighborhoods, offering non-sequitur menu items that somehow seem to work. Seriously, how many other places in town can you find that serve high-end organic coffees, crepes, wood-fired pizzas and artisan baked goods. Is it a bistro? Is it a coffeehouse? Does it matter? SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Crepes.

San Chez Cafe 38 West Fulton St. 616-774-8272 ECLECTIC. This comfy venue allows customers to “walk on sunshine” with its windowed-out structure. A hidden secret for breakfast in downtown Grand Rapids, San Chez Cafe promises a great start to any day. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches.

a premier dining rewards program

SUPPER CLUB

PULL UP A CHAIR AND JOIN US . We are pleased to introduce our exclusive Supper Club program, providing guests with extraordinary rewards every time they dine. Memberships may be purchased at any of the participating Amway Grand Plaza, JW Marriott, and Downtown Courtyard by Marriott restaurant locations, online at amwaygrand.com/sc, or by calling 616.776.6980.

• Buy one dinner entrée at six.one.six or Cygnus 27 and receive one complimentary dinner entrée • 20% off entire guest check at Lumber Baron Bar, Garden Court Lounge, GP Sports, or Cornucopia located inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel or The Bistro located in the Downtown Courtyard by Marriott • Earn a $20 gift card from the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel for each new Supper Club member that you refer • And so much more!

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Taste This

by Matt Simpson Siegel

On Our Restaurant Radar:

Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen

hances are you already know last year was chaotic for couple Gianni and Lisa Licari, having been featured on the Food Network’s “3 Days to Open with Bobby Flay.” The couple opened the only authentic Sicilian restaurant in Grand Rapids last April with Flay’s help, whose greatest accomplishment was convincing Gianni’s mother to share several of her secret recipes. Nearly a year later and the Licari’s kitchen has settled into Licari’s Sicilian a north side pizza staple. Pizza Kitchen Everything is fresh and prepped 2896 Knapp St. Ste. same day; there are no frozen pre-made B, Grand Rapids ingredients here. Standout antipastas inlicarispizzakitchen. clude the Cozze Al Pomodoro, mussels com, (616) 608-6912 bathed in white wine, tomato and herbs, and Arancini, crispy rice balls filled with meat and mozzarella with hints of saffron and basil. Numerous pizzas offer rare toppings and combinations not often thought of in today’s fast chain market, such as prosciutto, salami, artichoke and goat cheese. I suggest indulging in either the Sfinciuni or Schiacciata upon your first visit. The Sfinciuni is a true Sicilian pizza with a thick crust littered with aged mozzarella cheese and covered in a rustic, sweet tomato sauce; you cannot add toppings to it, nor would you want to. The Schiacciata is stuffed pizza, having a thin crust covering toppings, and is available in four variants. The Bobby is a standout with goat cheese and garlic sautéed mushrooms laced with truffle oil. The Montelepre, named after the Licari family hometown in Sicily, has an herb olive oil sauce and ricotta cheese, crammed with onion, ham and mushroom.

The Bobby: A Sicilian-style stuffed pizza with goat cheese, garlic sautéed mushrooms and white truffle oil. Photo: Kim Kibby Although a small selection, the pastas have robust and savory flavors. A family heirloom recipe, the Pasta A’ La Chef is a short, twisted strand of corkscrew pasta called gemelli (meaning ‘twins’ in Italian) in a tomato cream sauce with ham, peas and carrots. The Linguini con Salsiccia e Ricotta is a creamy ricotta and tomato sauce served over linguini with a semi-spicy homemade sausage. All house pastas and pizzas are available gluten free. For those who can’t have enough, the entire menu is available for catering.

Foodie Events:

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

Love, Wine & Chocolate

60 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

Join fellow connoisseurs of decadent chocolates and fine wines at Love, Wine & Chocolate, with proceeds benefiting the Center for Women in Transition, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that works to end domestic and sexual violence against women. Located in the Grand Ballroom at the Grand Haven Spring Lake Waterfront Holiday Inn, Love, Wine & Chocolate will feature hors d’oeuvres from Jack’s Waterfront Bistro + Bar and wine tastings from local wine vendors, as well as live entertainment and a silent auction. Holiday Inn, Spring Lake / Feb. 9, 6–9 p.m. / higrandhaven.com/love-wine-and-chocolate, (616) 846-1000 x 630

8th Annual Taste of Soul Sunday

Celebrate African American history and culture at the 8th Annual Taste of Soul Sunday at Grand Rapids Public Library. Enjoy various works of art, speakers and discussions on literature and history, the music of local singer-songwriter Karisa Wilson, jazz artist Eva René Fisher, and the fabulously filling food of Jamaican Dave’s, Chez Olga and Southern Fish Fry. Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch / Feb. 17, 1–4 p.m. / Free! / grpl.org/tasteofsoul, (616) 988-5400

Cheap Eats: All You Can Eat Pancakes at The Red Geranium Cafe Shake off the cold and gorge yourself on all-you-can-eat fresh buttermilk pancakes at The Red Geranium Café. With two locations, you can binge at both throughout the week to hide your syrup addiction. For a mere $4.99, gluttony is certainly affordable. 6670 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, (616) 656-9800 and 5751 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, (616) 532-8888; redgeraniumcafe. com

Feeling Frisky? So are we. How about a complimentary glass of Mawby’s Sex* for all the lovers out there? Come in and enjoy our special Valentine’s Day menu with featured wines from February 13 through 16. Make your reservation today and let’s get cozy! 201 Monroe Avenue nW doWntoWn grAnd rApids reservegr.coM

616 855 Wine

Free glass of Mawby’s Sex with any medium or large plate purchased between February 13–16. A 18% gratuity will be added to check prior to discount.

Vitale’s of Hudsonville 5779 Balsam Dr. Hudsonville, MI 49426-1102 (616) 662-2244 Vitale’s of Grand Rapids vitaleshudsonville.com 834 Leonard St. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Vitale’s of Comstock Park (616) 458-8368 Vitale’s of Zeeland theoriginalvitales.com 59 West Washington Ave. 3868 West River Dr. Comstock Park, MI 49321 Zeeland, MI 49464 (616) 772-5900 (616) 784-6044 vitalessportsbar.com vitaleszeeland.com Vitale’s of Ada 400 Ada Dr. Suite A Ada, MI 49503 (616) 676-5403 vitalesada.com

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

Locally owned, serving West Michigan our homemade recipes and fresh ingredients for over 40 years.

Dining

Six.One.Six. 235 Louis St. NW. 616-242-1448 ECLECTIC. Marketinspired menus, sweeping views and progressive rhythms combine to create a memorable dining experience. The dishes tempt taste buds and is the perfect spot for foodies. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days GO THERE FOR: Variety and being seen.

Stella’s Lounge 53 Commerce Ave. 616-356-2700 TAVERN. The Chicagostyle whiskey bar has more than 200 varieties of distilled spirits, old-school video games, a superexcellent jukebox stocked with rock and punk classics, and a menu filled with vegetarian and vegan bar food — and stuffed burgers. Did we mention you can sip cans of PBR, Blatz and other classic beers, as well as sangria, out of a mason jar? REVUE’s British ex-pat David Smith calls Stella’s his favorite bar in the world. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Vegetarian and vegan bar food.

The Score 5301 Northland Dr. NE. 616-301-0600 SPORTS BAR. Multifaceted restaurant and sports bar has a lot to offer, including expansive menu with discount options, happy hour specials, countless big screen and projection TVs broadcasting big games and pay-per-view UFC matches, outdoor beach volleyball and live music in the summertime … the list goes on. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Sports Bar Atmosphere.

Tavern on the Square 100 Ionia Ave. SW. 616-456-7673 ECLECTIC. The re-fashioned former Irish pub still has that neighborhood feel, and offers up a unique menu with salads, antipasto, appetizers, a pub burger, and an array of unique “Yankee Tapas” like Fish Tacos, Loaded Carnival Fries and the ultimate West Side tapas: Pierogies. A hodgepodge to be sure, but fun. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: PBJ Tuna.

Vitale’s Restaurants Various Grand Rapids locations. vitalespizza.com ITALIAN. The Vitale family has served West Michigan for more than 40 years. Each of the five locations in the Greater Grand Rapids area offer traditional Italian family recipes and award-winning pizza, but provide their own unique dining experience. Whether you go there to watch the big game, enjoy a brew or dine on authentic Italian dishes, these locations have something for everyone. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days GO THERE FOR: Pizza and Italian dishes.

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

The Winchester 648 Wealthy St. SE. 616-451-4969 ECLECTIC. Upscale Wealthy Street bar and restaurant feels like it was plucked from Chicago’s Bucktown or Logan Square neighborhoods. A comfortable spot to drink or dine, with an always evolving menu featuring shared plates, salads and inventive sandwiches. The Cuban Reuben, originally created as something of a joke, remains a (very tasty) staple item. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: DIY Bloody Mary Bar Special, Yucca Fries.

Wolfgang’s Restaurant 1530 Wealthy St. SE. 616-454-5776 BREAKFAST. The bustling Eastown breakfast spot is home to some of the

62 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

Lakeshore

what it is — a chop house and grill. Atmosphere is warm with Tuscan tones, atmospheric lighting, classically cool music and leather booths. The menu focuses on steaks and chops and makes no apologies. The steaks are prime USDA choice, the seafood selection immaculate, and the wine and beverage list is top shelf. Relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Nightlife.

84 East 84 East 8th St., Holland. 616-396-8484 ITALIAN. While we categorize it as “Italian,” that’s a bit limiting for this downtown Holland spot, which specializes in creating inventive pasta dishes. Housed in an old industrial building, 84 East is a favorite splurge spot among REVUE’s Hope College minions. 84 East also serves up designer pizzas and a few non-pasta house specialties like Pork Marsala and Mahi Mahi. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sunday GO THERE FOR: Baked Spaghetti Pie, Tuxedo Chicken Pasta.

Mia & Grace 1133 3rd St., Muskegon. 231-725-9500 AMERICAN. Calls itself a bakery and bistro, but that’s too limiting to describe the creativity of Mia & Grace’s menu. The farm-to-table eatery in downtown Muskegon is casual and comfortable and serves lots of one-of-a-kind items like the Pork Belly Reuben or the Duck PB&J (duck confit, carmelized onions, cashew-peanut butter, green pepper jelly, anadama bread). SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Salads, Soups, Creme Brulee.

Bil-Mar Restaurant 1223 S. Harbor St., Holland. 616-842-5920 AMERICAN. A destination restaurant for locals and tourists for more than 60 years. Dazzling sunsets and an All-American menu featuring fresh seafood and hand-cut steaks. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Lake perch, lobster strudel, prime rib.

New Holland Brewing Company 66 E. 8th St., Holland. 616-355-6422 BREWPUB. One of West MI’s premier microbreweries serves up better than average pub grub, including the Tarheel barbecue Pulled Pork, Grilled Portobello and The Treehugger, which is billed as “a vegetarian sandwich utopia.” SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Mad Hatter IPA, Dragon’s Milk.

Blue House Bistro 220 W. 8th Street, Holland. 616-355-1994 AMERICAN. Chef-owned boutique bistro located in downtown Holland, with an extensive menu featuring small plates, sandwiches, soups, salads, pizza, desserts, dine-in, take-out, delivery catering, beer and wine to-go. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: Tu–Sun. GO THERE FOR: Seafood gumbo, Saturday and Sunday brunch.

Salt of the Earth 114 East Main St., Fennville. 269-561-7258 AMERICAN. Salt of the Earth is a farm-to-table-inspired restaurant, bar, and bakery located in the heart of SW Michigan farm country in Fennville. Focuses on fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients whenever possible. Also serves up live music on weekends. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: House made rustic cuisine.

heartiest breakfast dishes and funniest menu descriptions. Courteous staff never fails to offer a cup of coffee to go after we’ve finished breakfast. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Breakfast all day.

CityVu Bistro 61 East 7th Street, Holland. 616-796-2114 AMERICAN. Located atop CityFlats Hotel in downtown Holland, CityVu Bistro offers unique breakfast creations, an array of flatbread dinners, and small plates. Full bar with extensive wine list and great views of Holland. Hours of operation change with the seasons. SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Flatbreads.

Saugatuck Brewing Company 2948 Blue Star Highway. 269-857-7222 BREWPUB. Enjoy a traditional Irish-style pub that features quality beer, wine, food and service. Try one of 12 unique brews that are served in the pub and bottled and distributed throughout the Midwest. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Beer in a family friendly pub environment.

Everyday People Cafe 11 Center St., Douglas. 269-857-4240 AMERICAN. REVUE Publisher Brian Edwards calls Everyday People Café his favorite restaurant along the lakeshore. The atmosphere is casual and upbeat, the staff knows its stuff about wine and food, and the seasonal menu is filled with meticulously prepared, eclectic comfort food like Butternut Squash Risotto, Braised Lamb Shank and Ahi Tuna. A great wine list and tremendous desserts. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Gorgonzola Pork Chop, Greek Salad with Grandma Gigi’s Dressing (Edwards).

Vitale’s of Zeeland 59 W. Washington St. (616) 772-5900 ITALIAN. This family owned restaurant specializes in Italian dining, but also has a full menu including Mexican and American specialties. Family friendly atmosphere with newly remodeled dining, and an expanded sports bar with big screen TVs. Happy hour specials, live music every Saturday and has been voted Best Pizza seven years in a row by the Grand Rapids Press. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

Fricano’s Pizza Tavern 1400 Fulton Ave., Grand Haven. 616-842-8640 ITALIAN. Claims to be the first pizzeria in Michigan, but customers care less about its longevity than the amazingly crispy thin crust and simple ingredients atop its much-lauded pies. Four other locations around West MI, including Comstock Park, Muskegon, Holland and Kalamazoo. SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

Kirby House 2 Washington, Grand Haven. 616-846-3299 AMERICAN. The Grill Room doesn’t pretend to be anything other than

SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Handcrafted ales and barbecue. Bell’s Eccentric Cafe 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. 269-382-2332 BREWPUB. Eccentric Café’s regular menu of appetizers, sandwiches, sides and salads — plus the daily soups and specials — exists for a simple and important purpose: to complement the Kalamazoo microbrewery’s award-winning beers. Eat up while you drink up. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Beer.

Bravo! 5402 Portage Rd., Kalamazoo 269-344-7700 ITALIAN. Much-lauded restaurant has earned its stripes over past 23 years as one of the region’s best dining experiences, including a 3-star rating in the 2010 Forbes Travel Guide (formerly the Mobil Travel Guide). The Tuscan-inspired cuisine is spectacular, the atmosphere comfortable and intimate, and the service first-rate. Also brews its own beer in small batches for pairings with menu offerings. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. (Closed Sat. lunch) GO THERE FOR: A great dining experience.

Fieldstone Grille 3970 W. Centre St., Portage. 269-321-8480 AMERICAN. Lodge-retreat atmosphere overlooking the Moors Golf Club natural wetlands. The “field-to-plate” menu features burgers, pizzas, steaks and some eclectic items like quail. Try the FSG chips, a combination of potato, beet and sweet potato chips. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Blue Burger, Almond Crusted Walleye, FSG Chips.

Food Dance 401 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo. 269-382-1888 AMERICAN. An eclectic American menu that reflects ownership’s fixation on “finding honest-to-goodness fruits, vegetables, meat and eggs that come from the farm, not the factory.” Lots of unique choices, for breakfast (gingerbread pancakes), lunch (crab cake sandwich) and dinner (beer roasted chicken). SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh Local Foods.

Old Burdicks Bar & Grill 100 W. Michigan Ave. (269) 226-3192 AMERICAN. Old Burdick’s Bar & Grill features tasty sandwiches, burgers, salads and entrees, as well as a great selection of cocktails, wines and beers. SERVING: Lunch Dinner. OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Old Burdick Burger.

Olde Peninsula 200 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo 269-343-2739 BREWPUB. Downtown brewpub serves up the expected (e.g., steaks, ribs), the authentic (e.g., London Broil) and some pleasant surprises (e.g., extensive vegetarian offerings, Italian food). Offers a range of beers brewed on the premises and served on tap, plus a full bar. Check out the seasonal porters on tap right now, including the Vanilla Porter (5.5% ABV) and Stout Chocula (5.25% ABV). SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Beer-B-Que Ribs, London Broil.

Kalamazoo/Battle Creek Arcadia Brewing Co. 103 Michigan Ave., Battle Creek. 269-963-9520 BREWPUB. You’ll find some of the usual suspects on the Battle Creek brewpub’s menu, including wood-fired pizzas and some of the best barbecue in the region. But you’ll also find some delightful surprises — Osso Bucco in a brewpub?! — on the menu, courtesy of award-winning Chef Sean Kelly.

Union Cabaret & Grille 125 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo. 269-384-6756 AMERICAN. A partnership with Western Michigan University, Union features eclectic food and cocktails, plus live jazz music performed by WMU faculty and students. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Portabella Fries, Bloody Maries with infused vodkas. n

HAPPY HOUR

Kissing Rock Kitchens EAT FRESH, EAT LOCAL -- BE HEALTHY

MONDAY - THURSDAY 4PM - 7PM

*with food purchase

HAPPY HOUR 4-6 P.M. • GREAT MI TAP SELECTION • FULL BAR & WINE LIST OPEN FOR DINNER MONDAY - SATURDAY 1420 LAKE DR. SE, EASTOWN • (616) 458-5583 • RADIXTAVERN.COM

HAPPY HOUR

COOKING WITH YOUR VALENTINE Feb. 9 @ Kissing Rock Kitchens - 6pm / $50 Valentine’s Dinner of Roasted Red Pepper Bisque, Pear and Pomegranate Salad, Pecan Crusted Chicken with Frangelico Cream Sauce, and Rum Truffles and Whoopee Pies. COOKING VALENTINE COO CO O K KIN ING W WITH IT YO ITH YOUR UR VAL VA ALENT ALENT ENTINE INE NE Rock Kitchens Feb. 14 @ Kissing Kiss ssing ssing i Roc in Ro ck Kit ck Kitche che ch hens ns - 6pm / $50 Mozzarella Arancini Tomato-Leek Moz Mo M o zar a ellllla stuf arell sstuffed tuf uffed uffed d Ar Aranc ancini anc ini in n an and dT o tooma to Lee Lee k Timbales T Tim im mballess as a antipasti, antipa ant ipa paastitit, Minted Mint n ed nt e Green Gre Gre een n Risotto, Rissott otto, tto, o Osso Ossso Bucco with Gremolata, Fresh Tuscan Buc B cco w wit ith G ith rem em mol ola ata ta, a, Fr a F esh sh Tu T Tusca usca scan n Round Roun u d Loaf Loaf af af dessert. and an a nd Zabaglione Za abag baaglio b on nee for or de desse ssse s rt. rtt

Chef Tina Marie

DINNER BURGUNDY DI DIN D INNE NER ER E R IN N BU B URGU RG NDY RG RGU Y Kissing Rock Kitchens Feb. 20 @ K Kiss isssing ng Ro R ock Kit Kitche che ch ens - 5:30pm / $50 French baguettes. Fre re enc nch ch nch ccheeses hees eee es e and an fr fresh esh s ba sh bague gu tte gue es. s Gougères Gougèr Gou gè e gè ess and Olives, Frisèe Salad with Goatt Chee Cheese O Oli ve ves es, Fris F r èe ris èe and Ap Apple ple e Sa alad dw wi th Go Goa C hee e se ee Medallions, Beef Bourguignonne, Boiled Potatoes Me Med edall allllion al ons, on ns, s B Bee ef Bour B ourgui our gui uigno uigno gnonne nne, Boil nn nne B oi ed oil ed Pot Po otato atoes e with Parsley. time) w wit ith P Pars ars a rsley le eyy. e y. ((extended e tend ext end ded d cla class sss tim me) For more information on all classes offered each month, or to register, visit our website at www.kissingrockkitchens.com or call (616) 987-9597 -- Carpe Culina!

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

1/2 OFF ALL WINE 1/2 OFF ALL MARTINIS 1/2 OFF ALL BEER 1/2 OFF ALL COCKTAILS

HAPPY HOUR

Chef Tina Marie demonstrates techniques and shares culinary tips all while teaching how to prepare fresh, seasonal produce from our local markets. Take part in these upcoming classes!

64 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

The Schedule Get Scheduled! E-mail your info to schedule@revuewm.com or add your events into our calendar at revuewm.com.

Friday

2.01

Tip Top Deluxe Nikki Hill with Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys UICA 2013 Oscar Shorts, Utopia/ Dystopia Exhibition

Saturday

2.02

The 411 Club The Whores of Babylon The B.O.B. The Turnips Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Whitey Morgan & The 78’s Billy’s Lounge Bob Marley Birthday Bash Tour 2013 Blackhawk Bar and Grill It’s About Tyme Calvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the Shrew Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Three-Piece Band

Miler Auditorium Les Miserables Mulligan’s Pub Bail Bondsman and Nobody’s Favorite Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Duffield Caron Project Papa Pete’s Desmond Jones Performing Arts Center, GVSU Allendale Campus Grand Valley Opera Theatre presents ‘The Threepenny Opera’ Pyramid Scheme The Bergamot Rockford High School Rogue River Artists “Love Affair with Art” Shakespeare’s Lower Level, Kzoo First Annual Marleymas St. Cecilia Music Center Music of the Night: A Benefit Jazz Concert for The Reed Family Music Scholarship UICA Utopia/Dystopia West Side Inn Forget the Times

Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Hope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: An Exhibition in Printmaking Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams Kirby House Rich Burkholder LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon Live Celtic Music Miler Auditorium Les Miserables Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition Performing Arts Center, GVSU Allendale Campus Guest Artist Series: Sharon Leventhal, violin, and Paulina Zamora, piano Saugatuck Center for the Arts Sky Hempy Keyboard Series: Mark Valenti Schuler Books (28th St) Opera Talk with Maestro Robert Lyall UICA Utopia/Dystopia

sunday

2.03

monday

Billy’s Lounge Revival 80s Night with DJ Hustlah Founders Brewing GR Jazz Orchestra Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GR Civic Theatre The Heart is a Lonely Hunter GRAM Classical Concert Series, Graphic Design: In Production

2.04

Billy’s Lounge BassBin Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic

Best Bet: Indie If you ask bluegrass galvanizing brothers Scott and Seth Avett, folksy, roots rock straight from down home in the delta ain’t dead. If anything, it’s just been resting, biding its time for the appropriate mixture of honky tonk and punk savior to rise up and breathe new vapor into it. Enter the aforementioned Avetts, a fraternal duo heading up the eponymous three-piece responsible for injecting the too-frequently missing banjo twang into our modern indie melodic consciousness. Accompanied by Bob Crawford on stand-up bass, The Avett Brothers are poised to sweep their individual, North Carolinian-saturated brand of delta blues rock to West Michigan’s own Delta, for a night sure to leave you The Avett Brothers with the taste of rich whiskey and stout The DeltaPlex Arena, tobacco in your mouth, with or without Grand Rapids any actual imbibing. Make certain those Feb. 10, 7 p.m. old stiff line-dancing boots are still in peak $27.50, $37.50, $47.50 condition – knowing these folks, you just deltaplex.com, (616) might end up moshing in them, too. 364-9000 Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

The Avett Brothers REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Brown Bird Billy’s Lounge Rick Chyme, Nixon Calvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the Shrew Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Three-Piece Band Czar’s 505 Jamaica Me Crazy DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents Hough Plays Liszt The DAAC Momcat, Rooster Illusion, Ghosts of Guyana Dog Story Theater I Went Looking for the Meaning of Life and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt Downtown Muskegon Snowfest Dr. Grins Dan Cummins Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont Gallery Uptown, Grand Haven Winter Art Festival GR Civic Theatre The Heart is a Lonely Hunter GRAM Friday Nights at GRAM, Graphic Design: In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic GRCC Spectrum Theater A Steady Rain Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Hope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: An Exhibition in Printmaking Kzoo Civic Theatre Sherlock Holmes: the Final Adventure Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams Kzoo State Theater Ana Popovic wsg Thirsty Perch Band Kellogg Arena Daughtry and Three Doors Down Knickerbocker Theater Hitchcock

LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Malarky’s Tony Reynolds Miler Auditorium Les Miserables Mocha-N-Music Dale Evenhouse Mulligan’s Pub Lo Mobb Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Ben Daniels Band The Orbit Room Umphrey’s McGee Performing Arts Center, GVSU Allendale Campus Grand Valley Opera Theatre presents ‘The Threepenny Opera’ Pyramid Scheme Frontier Ruckus Release Show Riviera Theatre HarmonyFest Chili and Homebrew Beer Cookoff Fundraiser, Vagabond Opera Schuler Books (28th St) Nik Thomasma Shakespeare’s Lower Level, Kzoo Salsa Friday featuring DJ Tropicz

DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents Hough Plays Liszt The DAAC Arson Our Savior, Of Virtue, The After Effect Dog Story Theater 24 Hour Theater Downtown Battle Creek Festivus 2013 Dr. Grins Dan Cummins Founders Brewing The Pinstripes with Green Room Rockers, Eric Kehoe Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont; Animal Adventures: Surviving in the Wild GR Civic Theatre The Heart is a Lonely Hunter GRAM Graphic Design: In Production GVSU Grand River Room Last Laker Standing Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Hope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: An Exhibition in Printmaking The Intersection Mega 80s Kzoo Civic Theatre Sherlock Holmes: the Final Adventure Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams Knickerbocker Theater Hitchcock L.C. Walker Arena, Muskegon Ice Skating at L.C. Walker Arena Ladies Literary Club River City Improv LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Lemonjello’s The Skies Revolt, Adversary, and All Wave Malarky’s Jake Stevens

Schedule Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Hope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: An Exhibition in Printmaking LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition Old Dog Tavern The Elixer Fixer Bartending Class The Station Beginner Ballet for Adults UICA Utopia/Dystopia Exhibition

tuesday

2.05

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Georgia Dimnent Chapel Hope College Jazz Concert Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design: In Production GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic

Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Hope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: An Exhibition in Printmaking Kzoo Institute of Arts Artbreak: The Gift: Al LaVergne’s Nigerian Project, Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Madcap Coffee Cozy Cruise Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night Pyramid Scheme Action Item The Station Belly Dance Class UICA Utopia/Dystopia

wednesday

2.06

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line Dancing Bar Divani Wine Social Billy’s Lounge Nate Holley Cook-DeWitt Center, GVSU Allendale Campus Arts at Noon Series: Grand Valley Winds Curragh Irish Pub Jake Stevens Foundry Hall Song Swap

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Hope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: An Exhibition in Printmaking Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Lemonjello’s Open Mic Night The Livery Team Trivia Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition, Art History Talk Papa Pete’s Deadbeats UICA Utopia/Dystopia Exhibition

thursday

2.07

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Eric

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Stray Birds Billy’s Lounge Soul Glo Calvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the Shrew Cygnus 27 RED Vodka Party Dr. Grins Shane Mauss Founders Brewing Gallo with special guests Cabildo Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production GR Public Library - Main Reading the Great Lakes GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic The Hideout Brewing Company Team Trivia Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Hope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: An Exhibition in Printmaking Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams Kirby House Rich Burkholder Knickerbocker Theater Visiting Writers Series: Shane Bookyo and Mat Johnson LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition

Best Bet: Beer

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Grand Rapids has reached a point where we can start deporting non-microwbrew lovers. We’ve already been crowned Beer City USA,

Amore Trattoria: Dessert course for “Cool Brews. Hot Eats.” featuring Founders breakfast stout with a hand made chocolate truffle rolled in toffee

66 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

for crying out loud, and this town (hell, this state) is not stopping when it comes to microbrew production. Experience Grand Rapids recognizes this with its firstever Cool Brews. Hot Eats event. Centered around the sold-out Eighth Annual Winter Beer Festival Cool Brews. Hot Eats and the Second Annual Downtown Grand Rapids Grand Rapids Beer Week Feb. 18–March 2 (Feb. 18–23), Experience Menu prices vary GR teams up with more experiencegr.com than 38 area restaurants to create beer-centered menus. These menus include everything from beer pairings to food that has beer as a primary ingredient. Get to know the brews you already love in a more intimate way or take this unique opportunity to try new ones. Reported by Lindsay Patton-Carson

Master Arts Theatre Forever Plaid Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom Acoustic Stew with Josh Rose The Orbit Room Candlebox Papa Pete’s Latin Salsa Pyramid Scheme Passalacqua Saugatuck Center for the Arts Real to Reel Cinema Series: The Invisible War Schuler Books (Alpine) Richard and Kathy Verlander Book Signing Shakespeare’s Lower Level, Kzoo Comedy Open Mic Night St. Cecilia Music Center SCMC Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Series Concert: Grand Statements UICA Utopia/Dystopia Exhibition Williams Theatre, WMU Communicating Doors

friday

2.08

The 411 Club The Mike Hard Show Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line Dancing Bethlehem Lutheran Church MAJIC Concert Series - Minsoo Sohn Calvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the Shrew Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Live Country Music DeVos Performance Hall Opera GR Presents Don Giovanni Dog Story Theater The Importance of Being Earnest Downtown St. Joe Magical Ice Festival Dr. Grins Shane Mauss Farmers Alley Theatre, Kzoo The Whipping Man Forest Hills Fine Arts Center Los Lobos Four Winds Casino Rick Springfield Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Friday Nights at GRAM, Graphic Design - In Production GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Civic Theatre Sherlock Holmes: the Final Adventure Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams

Kzoo State Theater Paula Poundstone LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition The Livery The Joshua Davis Band Malarky’s Kevin Murphy Master Arts Theatre Forever Plaid Mexicains Sans Frontieres Orpheum Bell, Lac La Belle Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard Salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition New Holland Brewing Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys Old Dog Tavern Hired Hands, Ziggy and the Bitches The Orbit Room Big Gigantic Pyramid Scheme Talib Kweli wsg Mama Sol, A.B.! Schuler Books (28th St) Briar Rabbit UICA Utopia/Dystopia, Beware of Mr. Baker Van Singel Fine Arts Center 3 RedNeck Tenors Williams Theatre, WMU Communicating Doors

saturday

2.09

The 411 Club Joe Wang and the Test Pilots Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Greensky Bluegrass Blackhawk Bar and Grill Mardi Gras Party Calvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the Shrew Calvin College, Bytwerk Theater Indie Game: The Movie Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Live Country Music Cannonsburg Ski & Ride Area GR (Sub)Urban Adventure Race - Winter Edition DeVos Performance Hall Opera GR Presents Don Giovanni Dog Story Theater The Importance of Being Earnest Downtown St. Joe Magical Ice Festival Dr. Grins Shane Mauss First Baptist Church of Kzoo All Ears Theatre and Arts Council of Greater Kzoo present Sleeping Beauty Founders Brewing The Mother Hips and Magic Box Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Mozart and Friends presented by the West Michigan Symphony

RU TH & MA X BL OO MQ UI ST BA ND FEBRUARY 9

PAT M C G E E

Suzanne Vega

W SG LI Z LO NG LE Y

FEBRUARY 23

Best Bet: Folk Suzanne Vega wsg Gerry Leonard Kzoo Valley Community College Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. / $20 bookstore.kvcc.edu, (269) 488-4476

8:00PM

What a retro month This February is. Between

the reemergence of matchbox twenty and now songstress Suzanne Vega’s upcoming performance at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, we’re stumbling blindly through a foggy bliss of never-ending nostalgia. This kind of repetitiousness usually only occurs on the second of February, but hey, who’s going to sneer at a whole month of pitch-perfect musical remembrances? Certainly not the aforementioned Vega, a prolific folk-rock revolutionary who has been churning out politically charged and self-aware hits since 1987’s mega single, “Luka.” Armed with nothing but a guitar and lush set of pipes, Vega is often credited as taking the reins in the late ‘80s folk revival movement, joining contemporaries like The Indigo Girls and Tracy Chapman to inject some lady power into the then-hair-metal dominated rock scene. Accompanied by modern folkster Gerry Leonard, this show is sure to leave fans of Vega’s, both new and established, swooning for more. Great job, shortest month; keep repeating yourself. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

Miller Auditorium Gold Company 35th Anniversary Mulligan’s Pub MOTO Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition The Muze Rescued from Rehab Papa Pete’s Latin Salsa Pyramid Scheme The Soil and The Sun Sara Hardy Parking Lot Traverse City Winter Microbrew & Music Festival Seven Steps Up Ruth & Max Bloomquist Band Shakespeare’s Lower Level, Kzoo Double Shot of Rockin’ Soul Blues Tip Top Deluxe The Hangdog Hearts, Black Cat Bone, Uncle Don, Lou Shields & Zack Godi UICA Utopia/Dystopia

SEVEN STEPS UP: 116 S Jackson Street, Spring Lake, MI 49456 (616) 678-3618 - www.pindropconcerts.com

Van Andel Arena Journey with Pat Benatar, Neil Giraldo, and Loverboy Wellspring Theater Fontana JAZZ: Rudresh Mahanthappa Quartet West Side Inn Crackjaw

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, GRAM Behind the Scenes GR Public Library - Main Poetry Slam GR Public Museum Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition The Livery Leo Nocentelli & Marcus Robinson Malarky’s Gabiral James Master Arts Theatre Forever Plaid

8:00PM

sunday

2.10

Billy’s Lounge Revival ‘80s Dance Night DeltaPlex Arena The Avett Brothers Dog Story Theater The Importance of Being Earnest, Bard-To-Go Downtown St. Joe Magical Ice Festival Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Schedule Hanneke Beaumont, Lecture: Art and the Psyche GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Classical Concert Series Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon Live Celtic Music Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hungarian Film Old Dog Tavern Double Strung Salt of the Earth Fingerstyle Blues UICA Utopia/Dystopia, The Blue Kite Van Andel Arena Jeff Dunham: Disorderly Conduct Tour

monday

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

2.11

Bekins Cooking School, Grand Haven Cooking Class: Valentine’s Day Dinner Billy’s Lounge BassBin Dog Story Theater Want Want Lovely Play Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition Old Dog Tavern The Elixer Fixer Bartending Class, Old Dog Comedy Show Pyramid Scheme Speck Mountain wsg Tiger Waves

tuesday

2.12

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Georgia Arena District, GR Mardi Gras Celebration Cook-DeWitt Center, Allendale Campus GVSU Writers Series: Faculty Readings by Patricia Clark and Chris Haven

Dog Story Theater Want Want Lovely Play Downtown Saugatuck Mardi Gras Parade Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design: In Production GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak : The Highwaymen Florida’s Outsider Artists, Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night Pyramid Scheme Erin McKeown The Station Belly Dance Class UICA The Powerbroker: Whitney Young’s Fight for Civil Rights

wednesday

2.13

Alaskan Pipeline Line Dancing Bar Divani Wine Social Calvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center Artist Series: The King’s Singers DeVos Place 68th Annual GR Boat Show The DAAC Three Cents Short, Kastanza, The Cardboard Swords & Fulton Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design: In Production GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Art League Lecture by Dr. Matthew Welch, ARTbreak : The Highwaymen Florida’s Outsider Artists, Photographs by Ansel Adams Kellogg Arena Shinedown, Three Days Grace, P.O.D. LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition The Livery Team Trivia Miller Auditorium, Kzoo Matchbox Twenty wsg Phillip Phillips

68 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Alison Wonderland with David Llyod and Steven Lee Pesch Salt of the Earth Valentine Love Fest Schuler Books (Alpine) Songwriter’s Alliance

thursday

2.14

Alaskan Pipeline Karaoke with Eric Bell’s Eccentric Cafe The Rachael Davis Band Calvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center Upright Citizens Brigade Dr. Grins Juston McKinney Family Fare: Spartan Culinary Classroom Romantic Dinner for Two: Hands-on Cooking Class with Wine Tasting Founders Brewing The Pimps of Joytime Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design: In Production GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic The Hideout Brewing Company Team Trivia Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Up Close: A Different Gaze: Artists Crossing the Color Line, Photographs by Ansel Adams Kzoo Valley Community College Kathleen McGookey Kirby House Rich Burkholder LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Master Arts Theatre Forever Plaid Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition, Native American Film Lecture Old Dog Tavern Singing Valentine Pinup Girls Papa Pete’s Latin Salsa Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet Company Program 3 Pyramid Scheme Sun Tzu Cadre, Phillies Blunt wsg The Wisemen

Sportsman’s Bar and Grille The Melon Show UICA Down and Dirty Date Night

friday

2.15

411 Club Paul Collins’ Beat, Nobody’s Favorite, and Boss Mustangs Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line Dancing Allendale Civic Theater Mama Won’t Fly

Billy’s Lounge Rocket 8 Blackhawk Bar and Grill Journey Tribute Band Calvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center SAO Film: Lincoln Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Pop and Soul Cover Band Chamber Bar Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys Dog Story Theater Stark Turn Players Present 10 Minute Plays Dr. Grins Juston McKinney Four Winds Casino Cracker

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Friday Nights at GRAM, Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered The Intersection Mega 80s Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams

matchbox twenty

Best Bet: Rock It’s 3 a.m., you must be lonely. You wanna push matchbox twenty stuff around. You know what you need? No, not that wsg Phillip Phillips ninth shot of whiskey from the bottom of a steel-stained Miller Auditorium, flask. Why don’t you shelve the booze and help yourself Kalamazoo to some matchbox twenty tickets instead? Yes, that’s right: Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. the same matchbox twenty (don’t let the very grown-up $38–$78 spelling of the number 20 fool you) that put out hit after millerauditorium.com, hit while you were still in braces. Think of all the eighth (269) 387-2300 grade dance memories set to flood back! (Well, maybe not the part when you peed your pants after your crush kinda smiled at you.) Even better, joining Rob and the rest of the matchbox lads onstage is none other than Phillip Phillips, “American Idol” veteran and everybody’s new favorite “Home” boy. (See what we did there? Hilarious.) Get ready to rock out with your, well, reasonably priced low-sugar cocktails out. In fact, maybe you better smuggle in that flask, just in case. Nothing enhances ‘90s adult contemporary quite like reminiscing about spiking the punch bowl. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson For a chance to win tickets to see matchbox twenty, visit our contest page at revuewm.com.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Schedule Kzoo State Theater Eddie Shaw and John Primer Kzoo Valley Museum Dixon’s Violin Knickerbocker Theater VIDA Guitar Quartet LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Malarky’s Jake Stevens Miller Auditorium Kathleen Madigan Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition The New Vic Theatre, Kzoo Same Time, Next Year Old Dog Tavern Fauxgrass Music Radisson Plaza, Kzoo Cooper’s Glen Music Festival

Riviera Theatre Nora Jane Struthers & the Party Line Saugatuck Brewing Company “Crafts and Courses” Beer/Food Pairing Schuler Books (28th St) Genna and Jesse

saturday

2.16

The 411 Club Comedy Showcase Allendale Civic Theater Mama Won’t Fly The B.O.B. Brian Randall Band Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Potato Moon Billy’s Lounge Damon Fowler

Blackhawk Bar and Grill Montage Band Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Pop and Soul Cover Band DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents Symphony with Soul The DAAC Three Cents Short, Kastanza, The Cardboard Swords, and Fulton Dog Story Theater Stark Turn Players Present 10 Minute Plays Dr. Grins Juston McKinney Founders Brewing Elephant Revival with Birds of Chicago Frederik Meijer Gardens Gallery Walk/Poetry Class: A Poet’s Perspective, Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont

Los Lobos

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Best Bet: Eclectic

Fricano’s, Muskegon Muskegon Polar Plunge GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill Grand River Room, GVSU Last Laker Standing Finals Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered The Intersection Van Halentine’s Day with Panama Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams Kingman Museum, Battle Creek Science Experiment Saturday Ladies Literary Club River City Improv LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Little River Casino Clint Black Malarky’s Jake Stevens Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Odd Side Ales Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys Old Dog Tavern Duffield Caron Project, Chuck Whiting and his Rowdy Friends Papa Pete’s Latin Salsa Park Theater Ekoostik Hookah Radisson Plaza, Kzoo Cooper’s Glen Music Festival Rivertown Sports Roller Derby Shakespeare’s Lower Level, Kzoo Crazy 80s Party Spring Lake Central Park Rotary Snow Jam St. Cecilia Music Center - Royce Auditorium CARE Ballet - Sleeping Beauty Tip Top Deluxe The Paul Collins Beat and The Boss Mustangs UICA Live Coverage 2013 Van Andel Arena Luke Bryan: The Dirt Road Diaries Tour Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

Confession: for about 20 minutes, I really thought I

Los Lobos was assigned to write about Los Lonely Boys. Not only have I Forest Hills Fine Arts betrayed my age, but also insulted the creativity and longevity Center, Grand Rapids of Los Lobos. Indeed, Los Lobos were responsible for one of Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m. the biggest hits of my early childhood, “La Bamba,” and much $32, $34, $38 to my surprise have continued to keep a pop cultural toe in the fhfineartscenter. Tex-Mex, folk, country and R&B worlds. It seems appropriate, com, (616) 493-8966 then, that a band whose name translates to “the wolves” would sport such a diverse and eclectic musical diet, delivered with the wild ferocity of a pack not ready to turn in its forest running shoes just yet. Join these remarkable melodic animals in Grand Rapids’ own Forest Hills Fine Arts Center for an evening sure to encompass more riveting rock than one singular ‘80s hit. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

70 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

sunday

2.17

Allendale Civic Theater Mama Won’t Fly Dog Story Theater Stark Turn Players Present 10 Minute Plays Founders Brewing GR Jazz Orchestra Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont

GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Classical Concert Series, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GR Public Library - Main Tase of Soul Sunday Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams Kirby House Rich Burkholder LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition Louis Armstrong Theatre, Allendale Campus GVSU Choral Concert McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon Live Celtic Music Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Double Strung Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet Company Program 3 Pyramid Scheme The Last Vampyre On Earth Premiere Salt of the Earth Live Folk Music Saugatuck Center for the Arts Sky Hempy Keyboard Series: Ellen Rowe Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

monday

2.18

Calvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center Pop Culture Series: Kevin Schut Dog Story Theater No Outlet Improv Presents Audience Interactive Improv Comedy Downtown GR GR Beer Week, Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Quinn and Tuite’s The Kreelers The Station Beginner Ballet for Adults Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

tuesday

2.19

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Georgia Dog Story Theater No Outlet Improv Presents Audience Interactive Improv Comedy Downtown GR GR Beer Week, Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont, Experience Beer GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak : The Eloquent Light with David Curl, Photographs by Ansel Adams Knickerbocker Theater Great Performance Series: LA Theatre Works Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night Pyramid Scheme Outasight, The Ready Set The Station Belly Dance Class UICA Intro Pottery Class, Open Projector Night The Upstairs Lounge, Battle Creek Best of the West- Wine Tasting Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

wednesday

2.20

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line Dancing Bar Divani Wine Social Downtown GR GR Beer Week, Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Valley Community College Suzanne Vega and Gerry Leonard Kzoo Institute of Arts Ansel Adams

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Schedule Knickerbocker Theater Pride and Prejudice Ladies Literary Club Wild Belle The Livery Team Trivia Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Steven Lee Pesch Teazers Bar and Grille Karaoke UICA Intro Jewelry Design Class Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

thursday

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

2.21

72 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Eric Dr. Grins Kevin Pollak Downtown GR GR Beer Week, Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Founders Brewing Oreo Jones Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GR Public Library - Main Civil Rights Book Talk, City Within a City GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem Hideout Brewing Team Trivia Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Intersection Testament wsg Overkill, Flotsam and Jetsam Kzoo Institute of Arts Gallery Talk: Get the Picture: By the Sea, Up Close: A Different Gaze: Artists Crossing the Color Line, Photographs by Ansel Adams Kirby House Rich Burkholder Mulligan’s Pub Fine Fine Titans Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Discussion One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom Acoustic Stew with MI Mark and Aardvark Conspiracy Papa Pete’s Latin Salsa Pyramid Scheme Inflatable Best Friend Shakespeare’s Lower Level Comedy Open Mic Night Sportsman’s Bar and Grille The Melon Show St. Cecilia Music Center Local Spins Live II with The Crane Wives and Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys

Tip Top Deluxe Deadstring Brothers, Nathan Kalish & the Wildfire and Dutch Henry Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

friday

2.22

The 411 Club Out of Favor Boys Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line Dancing Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Head for the Hills Billy’s Brewer’s Guild Party feat. The Veloras, Cavepeople, and DJ Dr. Joel Blackhawk Bar Combat Corduroy Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Live Rock DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents An American in Paris Dog Story Theater Working for a Living: Two One Act Plays Downtown GR GR Beer Week, Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Dr. Grins Kevin Pollak Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont, Perspectives Grand Haven Restaurant Week GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Friday Nights at GRAM, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Intersection WYCE Jammie Awards Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries James Karsina Exhibit Louis Armstrong Theatre, GVSU Allendale Campus The Shape of Things Miller Auditorium Experience the Beatles with Rain Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Captain Ivory wsg Branden Mann Papa Pete’s Deadbeats Pyramid Scheme Super Happy Funtime Burlesque Love Show Schuler Books (28th St) Patricia Clark Book Signing Shakespeare’s Lower Level Jahman Brahman feat. That Freak Quincy

Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

saturday

2.23

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Cosby Sweater wsg DJ Bosco Billy’s Lounge Serena Ehrhardt Blackhawk Bar and Grill Bob Marley Birthday Bash Cancun Connection Bar and Grill Live Rock City Flats Hotel, Holland Cook in Style: Interactive Dinner DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents An American in Paris Dog Story Theater Working for a Living: Two One Act Plays Downtown GR GR Beer Week, Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Dr. Grins Kevin Pollak East GR Middle School GR Polar Plunge 2013 Fifth Third Ball Park 8th Annual Beer Winter Festival Founders Brewing Dragon Wagon Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Murder Mystery Dinner “A Date With Death” Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GR Kroc Center Dash Down Division Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Kzoo Institute of Arts Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries James Karsina Lemonjello’s Good Luck Varsity, Fine Fine Titans, 1876, Narco Debut, and Red Legs Louis Armstrong Theatre, GVSU Allendale Campus The Shape of Things Mulligan’s Pub The Hex Bombs Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition The Muze Tetrad Old Dog Tavern Duffield Caron Project The Orbit Room The Pink Floyd Experience Papa Pete’s Latin Salsa Park Theater The Werks Pyramid Scheme Haunted Leather, Heavier Than Air Flying Machines, Paucity

Seven Steps Up Pat McGee wsg Liz Longley Shag Bark Hickory Farms Seed Swap Shakespeare’s Lower Level, Kzoo Designer Drugs featuring Muzzy, Slim Tim, Popshit Tip Top Deluxe ChupaCobras,The JetBeats Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter West Side Inn The Rain in Yuma

sunday

2.24

monday

2.25

Downtown GR Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont

Best Bet: Comedy For a comedian who can boast the ringing endorsement of Lewis Black (he once called her “the funniest woman in America”), not to mention a 20-year-plus career as an outstanding stand-up, Kathleen Madigan has spent much of her time not in the direct glare of the popular spotlight, but Kathleen Madigan rather beneath the fringes Miller Auditorium, of comedy greatness. She worked her way Kalamazoo through the ranks of the Feb. 15, 8 p.m. / $32.50 comedy club underbelly, millerauditorium.com, flexing hilarious muscles (269) 387-2300 on stage, television and beyond. However, with a recent Showtime special, Gone Madigan, played nearly ‘round the clock, and a devoted fan base of loyal laughers following her developing career with the eagerness of any good Dead Head, it’s probably safe to assume that Madigan’s comedy legend status is on the precipice of being locked down and secured. Come check out this incredible wordsmith as she drops her hilarious knowledge on the Miller Auditorium at Western Michigan University. Even if you’ve already seen her perform, you’ll most likely go mad-again (har har) with laughter. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks LaFontsee Galleries James Karsina Exhibit Lemonjello’s The Fever Haze, Natively Foreign, Elliot Street Lunatic, Cain Marko, and Along The Shore Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

The 411 Club Sunday Blues Series Dog Story Theater Working for a Living: Two One Act Plays Downtown GR Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Classical Concert Series, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries James Karsina The Livery Irish Music Session Louis Armstrong Theatre, GVSU Allendale Campus The Shape of Things Meijer Theater Van Andel Museum Center The Tony’s Mulligan’s Pub Ozenza and Antique Scream Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Open Mic, Crossroads Blues Band Salt of the Earth Live Arabic Inspired Music Tip Top Deluxe Eilen Jewell wsg Chuck Whiting and His Rowdy Friends UICA Die Architekten Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

Kathleen Madigan

Old Dog Tavern Great Lakes Acoustic Music Association The Station Beginner Ballet for Adults Van Andel Arena Maroon 5 with Neon Trees and Owl City Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter Wichers Auditorium Erich Peterson french horn recital

REVUEWM.COM | February 2013 |

Schedule tuesday

2.26

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Georgia Calvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center Lake Effect Saxophone Quartet Downtown GR Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries James Karsina Miller Audtorium Hair Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night Schuler Books (28th St) Aric Davis Book Signing St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Cantate Chamber Ensemble and Varsity 8 The Station Belly Dance Class UICA Intro Pottery Class Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

wednesday

2.27 Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line Dancing Bar Divani Wine Social

1501 Lake Dr., Grand Rapids, MI

•Exquisite Body Jewelry for• Exquisite Taste •14k Gold, Titanium, Niobium• •Large Gauge Jewelry in• Stone, Glass, and Wood

74 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2013

Cook-DeWitt Center, GVSU Allendale Campus Arts at Noon Series: Ensemble Caprice - Salsa Baroque Curragh, Holland Nate Holly Downtown GR Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries James Karsina The Livery Team Trivia Miller Audtorium Hair Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition Old Dog Tavern Alison Wonderland with David Llyod, Steven Lee Pesch Pyramid Scheme Jimkata, Arpetrio UICA Intro Jewelry Design Class Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter

Thursday

2.28

Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Eric Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Zach Deputy DeVos Place 34th Annual West Michigan Home and Garden Show Downtown GR Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Dr. Grins Bret Ernst Founders Brewing Roster McCabe

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont GRAM Graphic Design - In Production, Jon McDonald: Slavery’s Chill GVSU Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of Magic The Hideout Brewing Company Team Trivia Holland Museum Lost Holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Remembered The Intersection Dustin Lynch wsg Brian Lorente and the Usual Suspects, The Kari Lynch Band Kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by Ansel Adams LaFontsee Galleries James Karsina Exhibit Muskegon Civic Theater Crimes of the Heart Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, Hughie Lee-Smith Exhibition One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom Acoustic Stew with 13th Hour Papa Pete’s Latin Salsa Pyramid Scheme Retro D’Luxe Saugatuck Brewing Beer School 101 Schuler Books (28th St) Jennifer Rush Book Signing Shakespeare’s Lower Level, Kzoo Jim Kata featuring Kyckstands Sportsman’s Bar and Grille The Melon Show Van Andel Arena Disney on Ice Presents 100 Years of Magic Water Street Gallery Splash, Spin, Splatter n

For more events and info, check out our calendar at revueWm.com.

LADIES LITERARY CLUB 61 SHELDON BLVD SE

FEBRUARY 2 FEBRUARY 16 MARCH 2 MARCH 16 ALL SHOWS 7:33 PM RIVERCITYIMPROV.COM