February 2015, Revue Magazine by Serendipity Media

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REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

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REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside

February 2015 | Volume 27, Issue 2

SCENE:

11 Random Notes 13 Q&A with Angela Steil from Gravity 14 All Ages 16 Eclectic

SPECIAL SECTION: 19 20 24 26 28 30

13 58

The Love Issue Digital Get Down: Online dating in West Michigan Dates for Those in Love Dates for Those in Lust Dates for Those Going Solo Romantic Dining

SOUNDS:

35 Local Music: Bello Spark 36 On Tour: Jason Isbell 38 On Tour: Cherub

Angela Steil of Gravity taphouse

The history of Beer City

Style: QUeen of hearts

SIGHTS: 41 42 44 46 48 50

Visual Arts: Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan Theatre: I Love Lucy on Stage Style Notes Indie Film Comedy: Michael Kosta Lit Life: Micheala Lynn

DINING & DRINKING:

53 Restaurant Listings 56 Taste This: Eat Your Veggies/BBQ 58 Beer: Patrick Evans 70 Last Call

SCHEDULE:

63 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 t e rta i n m e n t G u i d e Editorial Publisher Brian Edwards / brian@revuewm.com Associate Publisher Molly Rizor / molly@revuewm.com Editor Joe Boomgaard Managing Editor Lindsay Patton-Carson / lindsay@revuewm.com

ov e i s i n t h e a i r! Or bitterness, depression and resentment, depending on your relationship status.

But then again, you don’t have to take Valentine’s Day seriously. There are a ton of different ways to celebrate that aren’t depressing and bitter. You know what’s a really great day? Feb. 15, when all the Valentine’s Day candy is on sale. Now THAT is something to celebrate.

Design Creative Director Kim Kibby / kim@revuewm.com Ad Design Rachel Harper, Kim Kibby

You don’t have to be traditional when it comes to your typical calendar holidays. Who made that rule anyway? Whoever did is probably dead by now. Hang out with your best friends, treat yourself to some splurges you’ve been eyeing recently or find something wacky to do with your significant other. Or be traditional. We don’t care, as long as you’re having fun. Speaking of fun, we’ve rounded up a bunch of entertaining things to do for this lovey-dovey month. And guess what? They’re not all lovey-dovey either. I mean, some are because that’s what some people are into. But then some aren’t, which is more our jam. That’s all relative, however. To me, the ultimate romantic gesture is when someone grocery shops so I don’t have to and then gives me a pizza. Different strokes for different folks, as they say. So no matter your relationship status, do what makes you happy with anyone in your life you love. Rock on.

Contributing Writers Kyle Austin Eric Mitts Kelli Belanger Allison Parker Missy Black Emma Kat Richardson Joe Boomgaard Rei Robinson Steven de Polo Josh Spanninga Alexandra Kadlec Kerri VanderHoff Nolan Krebs Anya Zentmeyer Audria Larsen Contributing Photographers Seth Thompson, Kelsey Wahowiak Listings schedule@revuewm.com Revue Minions Hillary George, Gabriella Patti, Abigale Racine, Josh Veal Sales / 616.608.6170 Kelli Belanger / kbelanger@revuewm.com Molly Rizor / molly@revuewm.com Digital Editor Jayson Bussa / jayson@revuewm.com

Lindsay Patton-Carson, Managing Editor / lindsay@revuewm.com Find us online! Website: revuewm.com Twitter: twitter.com/revuewm Facebook: facebook.com/revuewm

Advertising index Amway Hotel Corporation. 25, 47 Arcadia Ales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barfly Ventures . . . . . . . . . 17, 27 Bell’s Brewery . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 34 Brewery Vivant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Broadway Grand Rapids. . . . . . 12 Calvin College SAO . . . . . . . . . . 34 Cascade Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 City Flats Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Downtown GR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Erb Thai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Fajita Republic . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 FireKeepers Casino . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Fontana Chamber Arts . . . . . . . 31

Foot Outfitters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Founders Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . 10 Frauenthal Center. . . . . . . 29, 61 Gilda’s LaughFest. . . . . . . . . . . 49 The Gilmore Collection. . . . 48, 59 GLAMA-Great Lakes Acoustic. . 36 Grand Rapids Art Museum . . . . 40 Grand Rapids Public Library. . . 52 Grand Rapids Symphony. . . . . . 36 Grand Woods Lounge. . . . . . . . . 71 Holiday Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Hope College Great Performers. 29 The Intersection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Kalamazoo State Theatre. . . . . . 62

8 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Keil Lasik Vision Center. . . . . . . 31 Koko FitClub of GR. . . . . . . . . . . 45 Literacy Center of W. Mich. . . . . 69 Love Issue Giveaways. . . . . . . . 32 MI Irish Musical Festival. . . . . . 29 Mich. Med. Marijuana report. . . 67 Michigan Brewers Guild . . . . . . 18 Millennium Restaurants. . 29, 57 Muskegon Museum of Art . . . . . 31 New Belgium Brewing. . . . . . . . 72 New Horizons Computer. . . . . . . 45 Northwood University. . . . . . . . . 23 Old Dog Tavern. . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Palazzolo’s Gelato . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Pearl Street Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 The Pyramid Scheme. . . . . . . . . . 5

River City Improv. . . . . . . . . . . . 69 River City Saloon. . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Saugatuck Brewing Co.. . . . . . . 59 Schuler Books. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Seven Steps Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 SMG/Van Andel Arena. . . . . . . . 37 Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. . 3 SpeakEZ Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 St. Cecilia Music Center . . . . . . 12 Walldorff Brewpub & Bistro. . . . 59 West Michigan Symphony. . . . . 31 Wharton Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Woody’s Press Box. . . . . . . . . . . 51 WYCE Jammies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

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 ©2015, 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: Online dating is more popular than ever, but how does it play out in West Michigan? See story on page 19. Models: Sean and Brooke Dailey Photo: Seth Thompson

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Random Notes

Cameron Blake

Local Music ///

Michigan singer-songwriter Cameron Blake is hosting an album release show with a cause. On Feb. 18, Blake celebrates his new album, Alone on the World Stage, at Fountain Street Church. The show also helps to raise money for Safe Haven Ministries, which provides safety, shelter and services to abused women. The money from this show will go toward Safe Haven’s new initiative to help provide victims of domestic abuse with safe, affordable housing options in Kent County. Admission is $10 or $5 for students.

National Album Releases ///

R&B artist (who won a Grammy in 2009 for “American Boy”) is also a voice actor. She voices Garnet in “Steven Universe,” the first show produced by Cartoon Network Studios to be created by a woman. Represent! ... Death Grips is the kind of group that would put a penis on its album cover. The kind of group that’s a little sexually aggressive and a lot sonically aggressive. Which means WE CAN’T WAIT FOR THE POWERS THAT B ON FEB. 10!!!! ... Other notable releases: Kid Rock... lolololol j/k; The Julianna Hatfield Three releases Whatever, My Love on Feb. 17; The Church releases Further Deeper on Feb. 3.

There’s a guy named Nick Krug who constantly harasses our Facebook page because our National Album Releases section sucks and we don’t write about Tim McGraw enough. Well, Krug. This is for you:

Tim McGraw. Art ///

LaFontsee Galleries is branching out into the art of jazz music with its upcoming Underground Series. The series kicks off Sunday, Feb. 15 at 3 p.m. with Grand Rapids’ first Poet Laureate Linda Nemec Foster ac-

companied by music from composer/pianist Steve Talaga’s Nonet. The following concert in the series takes place March 22, featuring Charlie Kohlhase’s Chicago Explorers Club. Tickets to The Underground Series are $20 in advance, $10 for students with a student I.D. and $25 at the door.

Film ///

The Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition is bringing bikes to the big screen with a local twist. On Feb. 18, the coalition will present three cycling-themed films by GVSU film Continued on next page 8

♥

Art shows to get you in the mood

ove and hot, hot sex are in the air. On Feb. 13, Glitter Milk Gallery pays tribute to the art of burlesque for its NSFW Opening Show. Take a peek at art that features burlesque acts all while appreciating the various body types represented in this form of entertainment. Burlesque art will be represented in a number of formats, from greeting cards to burlesque outfits that were handmade by local performers. The fun starts at 7 p.m. at Glitter Milk Gallery (901 Alpine Ave. NW,

Grand Rapids) and there will be chocolate and wine to entice your taste buds. Don’t think that’s all the sexy sex that’s happening in the art world this month. Take a road trip to Lansing, where the Michigan Institute of Contemporary Art is presenting Burning Desires, a love and erotic-themed show that features visual art in any medium. On Feb. 8, an erotic and love-themed spoken word and poetry reading will accompany the exhibition.

NSFW Show at Glitter Milk Gallery opens Feb. 13.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

Bob Dylan is coming out with an album full of Frank Sinatra covers on Feb. 3, so be on the lookout for him to be on the cover of Rolling Stone for the 2495869306387094th time. ... Sisqo and Ricky Martin both have albums coming out on Feb. 10. Maybe I’ll download both albums on Napster and then feed my Tamagotchi, Gilbert, until he poops himself and not clean up after him. ... Imagine Dragons have another album coming out because after five years of constant airplay, people are finally getting sick of hearing “Radioactive.” Smoke + Mirrors comes out on Feb. 17. ... Aww, just in time for the loviest day of the year, Estelle releases her new album, True Romance, on Feb. 17. The

Death Grips

Random Notes

CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE TRIO

St. Cecilia Music Center PRESENTS

“McBride is justifiably the most recorded and most honored jazz bassist of his generation. With a beefy, earthy tone and often jaw-dropping technical abilities…he never disappoints.” - Jazz Times

SPECTACULAR JAZZ SERIES FEBRUARY 19, 2015

INCLUDES POST-CONCERT DESSERT RECEPTION

professor Marie Ullrich. The night will start off with the three-minute Ghost Bike, followed by the 12-minute Faster! and ending with the feature, The Alley Cat, a 65-minute film that won The Chicago Award in the 2014 Chicago International Film Festival. Tickets are $15 and money will go toward GGRBC’s Room to Ride campaign, which aims to get bike lanes on 100 miles of metro Grand Rapids streets. ... UICA hosts its annual Open Projector Night on Feb. 18. A filmmaker’s response to an ‘open mic night,’ this event highlights and celebrates local film. The evening consists of a 70-minute screening of shorts submitted by local filmmakers. Following the shorts, there is a 10-minute Q&A. Guests get to vote for their favorite short and the winner is announced at the after party. Admission is free for UICA members and $4 for the general public.

Food ///

SO Special. SO SCMC. scmc-online.org 616.459.2224

Basically all you need to know is there is an event called CHOCOLATE PARTY and it is happening at the Michigan State University Museum on Feb. 22. Buuut... if you want more information, here is what else

Important Dates Ad Reservation Deadline: Feb. 16 Editorial Deadline: Feb. 1 Delivery: March 1 you need to know: Local chefs and culinary students come together to present an array of cheesecake, truffles, tortes, fountains!!!! and other chocolatey items at the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center at MSU. The party benefits artifact care and preservation for the MSU Museum and this year’s theme is inspired by the film Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb. If you want in, tickets are $30 for the general public, $25 for MSU Museum members or $35 at the door. n Random Notes is written and compiled by Lindsay Patton-Carson. For more music, beer and entertainment news, including giveaways, “Like” us on Facebook (facebook.com/revuewm) or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/revuewm.

FEBRUARY 10-12

AT DEVOS PERFORMANCE HALL TICKETS ON SALE NOW! visit BROADWAYGRANDRAPIDS.COM or 1-800-745-3000 • TICKETMASTER.COM

12 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Grand Rapids engagement is excusively sponsored by Harvey Automotive & Thrifty of Grand Rapids.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

experience the music, mayhem and magic of tv’s most beloved program!

/// Q&A

Gravity’s Beer Guide Questions for Angela Steil, Beer Director and House Certified Cicerone at Gravity Taphouse Grille

mploying a Cicerone is kind of a new thing for restaurants. Typically they work with distributors. How did you wind up at Gravity? Very rarely have I heard of a Cicerone being inside of a restaurant and working like a wine sommelier. It is all geared toward getting to the same status that wine has, but not with the same pretension. But with the same amount of respect. Any time I saw gigs like that they barely paid anything — about $20 thousand per year — but when Gravity came along (they approached Steil) I was pitching this idea, they kind of already had it in mind and they really thought this is going to work.

What does the fairly new concept of a restaurant having an in-house Cicerone say about the overall state of craft beer right now?

How do you view your job as a Cicerone? “Cicerone” is Latin root for “Cicero” and it really means a “tour guide.” So you’re guiding people through the palate experience. It’s like a beer steward of sorts. What I love about that idea and why I want to do it so much is it’s not about selling, it’s simply about suggesting. I love talking about beer so much and I’m so enthralled with the actual styles and the history. I love working with people so much, it just seemed like the perfect gig for me. Not only can I create a brand new menu concept, but I can go and educate others. If (people want to ask questions) I’m here for that information.

(usually around 2 p.m.) I would sit down and maybe meet with some sales reps and hear about what kinds of beers they are selling and create some contacts that way. There will be a lot of setting up beer events and beer educational events. That’s my next step. Then in the evening, going on the floor and acting as a Cicerone during the peak dinner hours. Servers and bartenders will let me know if customers have requested my services. I’d go over and ask them several questions to get to a flight or specific beer that would pair well with their food or just for sitting there. What will some of the education and events you mentioned entail? Starting in 2015 there will be a large push on my end for education. We can’t just have a venue with me suggesting beers. I’m sick of just the Beer 101 classes. I want to get very specific. I want to have a glassware class just talking specifically about beer glassware. Maybe have a local glassmaker come in? And it won’t just be me talking at these events. I want other people to come in. I have a hop farmer in Wisconsin that I think would be interesting to have come in. There would be different levels of classes. From very basic all the way to advance-level classes. n Interview conducted and condensed by Nick Manes. Edited by Lindsay Patton-Carson. Photo: JMH Photography

How will a typical day look for you? We are still trying to figure that out, but generally what it seems to be is that during the first portion of my day

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

How did Gravity present to you the idea of having an in-house Cicerone as part of their strategy? Apparently they had already had this inkling or idea. All I knew is they had heard about me via a Mitten Brew article and the editor of Mitten Brew was talking about me at an event at one of their other restaurants called Cork. They invited me out to lunch and I was already being courted by several people at the time. I went to meet them and was just blown away because everything I spelled out that I wanted to accomplish as a career… they said yes.

It says that we are a very excited craft beer culture. I came to Grand Rapids very specifically to propel the quality and education spectrum of the craft beer scene here, because I knew that we were ready for it, based on being Beer City USA. Technically, are we the best in the country? No. We are in what I call the infantile or toddler phase. But we have a very enthusiastic beer culture. One of the most enthusiastic ones I’ve ever seen and that’s incredibly inspiring and how could you not want to be a part of that? I came here to help be a catalyst for that change and to make sure we are propelling the scene in a positive and education-focused direction.

/// All Ages

Compete with your family in the Michigan Winter Triathlon at Muskegon State Park

Winter Wonderland: Family Friendly Events in February

This month, get your family outside and enjoy all that West Michigan has to offer as a winter wonderland. By Steven G. de Polo

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Michigan Winter Triathlon

Muskegon State Park 462 Scenic Dr., North Muskegon Feb. 1; 10 a.m. check in; 10:30 a.m. clinics; Noon skating and luge; 3 p.m. cross-country ski race Family rate $50, 13 years and over $25, 12 and under $20 msports.org, (231) 744-9629

Try three Winter Olympic sports (luge, ice speed skating and cross country skiing) in a family friendly competition smack in the heart of Pure West Michigan. The 18th annual Michigan Winter Triathlon is geared to young and old alike who have never done at least one of these sports. There are no big awards. Just the thrill of crushing dear old dad while wearing metal blades on your feet. Every competitor will participate in 20-minute clinics to get you through the sports. Overall winners will be announced for nine age classes, male and

14 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

female. But family bragging rights are the sweetest. Necessary gear will be provided, but bring knee and elbow pads and wear your grungiest kit — going 60 miles an hour on a sled ain’t no joke. “Don’t worry,” said Mark Jastrzembski, president of Muskegon Sports Council. “You’ll finish in time to catch the Super Bowl at home.”

11th Annual Magical Ice Fest

Downtown St. Joseph Feb. 6–8 Free! magicalicefest.com, (269) 985-1111

The Magical Ice Fest kicks off Friday evening in Downtown St. Joseph with talented carvers turning frozen blocks of ice into works of art along State Street. The individual ice carving competition (5:30–7:30 p.m.) concludes with a

fire and ice display at State and Pleasant Streets at 8 p.m. On Saturday, watch pro carvers duel it out in 15-minute bouts of ice-carving chaos. The crowd is the judge for this event as these carvers go head-to-head to see who can create the best sculpture the fastest. The Ice Fest also includes the Second Annual Ice Fest Chocolate 5K Run/ Walk (9 a.m. Saturday), SNOBiz Scavenger hunt (all weekend), magical fun with magician John Dudley (Saturday), and the Waikiki Weekend at the carousel. In addition, festival goers will find a fantastic selection of unique stores, tasting rooms, eateries, museums and more.

Next, the senior-level outhouse racers take the concrete course. Hosted by the Coopersville/ Polkton Firemen’s Club, the race consists of four team members outfitted in the craziest possible costumes, pushing handmade outhouses on wheels over one very long and bumpy block ($25/ team). Other activities include the Polar Plunge Challenge, Decorated Toilet Seat Contest, live music and a euchre tournament hosted by the Coopersville VFW Hall at 2 p.m. Something for everyone.

Pigeon Creek Park Outhouse 500 & Chili Cook Off

Main Street, Coopersville Feb. 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free! coopersvillefarmmuseum.org, (616) 997-8555

Coopersville hosts a winter festival on the last Saturday of every February. “We wanted to give families something to do in the middle of the winter,” said LeeAnn Sargent, director of the Coopersville Farm Museum. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with the Eleventh Annual Chili Cook-Off at the museum, where you get 12 votes for $5. The Outhouse 5K/Fun Run/Walk starts at noon and begins and ends on Main Street. Look for hot cocoa ladled by the local Boy Scout Troop. Local celebrity Thom Eno will kick off the Outhouse 500 Races at 1 p.m. with a playing of the National Anthem on his musical saw. The Outhouse Parade introduces each team, outhouse in tow. The Little Outhouse Races are held first with participants ranging from 6-13 years old ($1 to participate).

12524 Stanton St., West Olive Free! Rentals (for two hours): Ski, $8 adults/$5 youth/$2 each additional hour; Snowshoe, $6/$3 each additional hour miottawa.org/parks/pigeoncreek.htm, (616) 738-4810

Looking for something a little more relaxing for your family? Head over to Pigeon Creek Park in the heart of Ottawa County. The 444-acre county park features a range of multi-use trails for winter skiing, snowshoeing and snowboarding. The park has more than 10 miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, plus three miles of lighted cross-country ski trails for nighttime use. The handsome Pigeon Creek Lodge offers seasonal concessions, picnic tables and grills, and modern restrooms to easily go from car to trail. Next to the lodge, there’s a lighted sledding hill. During the summer, there is also biking and equestrian trails. n

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HyperOptik 1134 Wealthy Street 6 1 6 . 3 0 1 . 1 9 1 1 www.hyper-optik.com PHOTO: ROB CONENS FRAME: CAROLINE ABRAM MODEL: LINDSAY WILLIAMS

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

/// Eclectic

Monday

1/2 off all MI craft drafts 9PM - 1AM

Tuesday

Tall Boy Tuesday $3.5 domestic tall boys

Wednesday

Karaoke and 1/2 off bottles of wine & 1/2 off appetizers 9pm - 1am

Learn how to make your own sushi at Meijer Gardens, Feb. 24.

February Eclectic Events February is the longest shortest month either because we live in a Yeti paradise or because we are all love-hating monsters. Nonetheless, cold-hearted bastards can still have fun. Race away your angst, discover bygone and potentially deadly beauty accessories, get drunk on sake or actually find a joyful glimmer in your soul when gazing upon masterful dancers. By Audria Larsen

Thursday

$2 domestic bottles 9pm-midnight

Friday & saTurday

Live entertainment

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

sunday

Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar $4 burger basket $6 PBR pitcher

The WesTbar on The besTside 801 5th St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 (616) 456-9058 theholidaybargr.com Like us on Facebook!

16 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Shen Yun: Reviving 5,000 Years of Civilization Wharton Center, East Lansing Feb. 11–12, 7:30 p.m. $50–$120, shenyun.com, (517) 353-1982

Enjoy a whirlwind journey of history and experience authentic Chinese culture through song and dance. The Shen Yun spectacular spans 5,000 years of legends, heroic tales and compelling movement. The epic stage production features vibrant costuming, animated backdrops and dynamo dancers who are classically trained powerhouses. The live orchestra blends sounds from the East and West as you travel to the lost land of the magical Middle Kingdom.

Collector’s Corner: Hat Pins Lakeshore Museum Center, Muskegon Through March 8 Monday–Friday, 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Saturday–Sunday, noon–4 p.m. Free! lakeshoremuseum.org, (231) 722-0278

Hat pins have a far more lurid history than you might expect. While some modern folks may have never laid eyes on a hat pin, their popularity rose in the 1800s as a simple way to keep women’s hats in place.

Catch a glimpse at these relics of a bygone era at the Collector’s Corner, which is currently showcasing Martha Giacobassi’s private collection of more than 260 hat pins. Styles run the gamut from utilitarian and austere to ornate and decorative. As fashions grew, so did the hat pins with some reaching beyond a foot in length. In the 1910s, news reports began to circulate about not only injuries but outright hat pin attacks. Laws and regulations soon were put into place to limit grisly crimes. Apparently fashion can kill.

Roll Your Own Sushi

Frederik Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids Feb. 24, 6:30–9 p.m. $65, meijergardens.org, (616) 957-1580

Sushi is delicious. Sushi can also get expensive, depending on your tastes. Have you ever considered learning to roll your own? With a little know-how and the right tools, the craft is simpler than you may think. And you’re in luck because Frederik Meijer Gardens is launching a Japanese garden in June and is offering themed events, like this one, to get you in a cultural mood. A local sushi chef will guide you through the process and offer information about selecting fresh ingredients. Other highlights include pairing rolls with sake like cloudy nigori and acidic junmai.

Amazing Race on Snow

Camp Roger, Rockford Feb. 7, 9:30 a.m. $62–$70, miadventureracing.com, (616) 460-9331

Races and runs are all the rage these days. And diehard fitness hustlers still need to pound the proverbial pavement despite snowy weather. This month, Camp Roger is going to play host to the largest winter race in the U.S. Last year, the event drew an incredible 300 participants. Two-person teams have three hours to discover hidden checkpoints marked on a map, collect points and dominate challenges like the fatbike and snowshoe sections of the trail. The general public can also join in and try to keep up with the racers, too. “West Michigan has a culture for challenging outdoor sports like adventure racing and trail running that does not exist in many other areas in the nation,” said Mark VanTongeren, race director. “These races draw more people than Chicago, Indianapolis and other larger cities do to similar events. We always get a great turnout because of this. Racers are also looking forward to a new venue, Camp Roger, which gives us beautiful terrain and a warm place to hang, get a free massage and eat pizza after the race.” A back rub and junk food? Holla! n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

FiFth third Ballpark

3 p.m .– 7 p.m.

1 p.m.– 6 p.m.

F r i d a y t i c k e t s s t i l l a v a i l a bl e ! Ge t t h e m w h i l e t h e y l a s t ! An outdoor celebration of Michigan beer, featuring over 650 beers from more than 85 breweries. Dress for winter weather and let the hearty winter brews warm your soul. Snow, rain or shine. Tickets

$45 in advance. Tickets are limited – advanced purchase required. No gate sales. No refunds. Tickets are available online only at mibeer.com. Includes 15 drink tokens, each good for one 3 oz. sample. Additional tokens available for purchase inside festival. Must be 21 and over. I.D. is required. For event information and updates, visit mibeer.com or mbgmash.org. mbgmash.org

18 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Special Feature

The

Love Issue I

f you need love advice, we can’t help you there.

What we can help you with is finding some exciting, entertaining and — of course — erotic things to do for Valentine’s Day. If you’re so deep in love you run into lampposts because you

can’t take your eyes off your schmoopy. we’ve got you covered. If you’re so in lust you get kicked out of establishments because you can’t take your hands off your schmoopy, we’ve got you covered there, too. For Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

those who are single, don’t worry. You’re all taken care of with plenty of self-indulgent tips. So, what are you waiting for? Take a peek at your potential Valentine’s Day plans.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Love Issue

Digital Get down The future is now, West Michigan, and the love of your life might only be a Tinder swipe away. Or not.

S Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

itting at a table in a noisy Grand Rapids bar across from the first OkCupid match she’d ever met up with in real life, Tayler Keefer couldn’t help but ask her date one question.

“I’m not weird and you’re not weird, so why are we both looking for dates online?” However, what Tayler — and so many other skeptics of online relationships, for that matter — don’t realize, is that 11 percent of all Americans 18 years and older have some kind of online dating profile. So if having an online dating profile suggests a person is “too weird” to find dates in real life, it also means not only do 1 out of every 10 Americans fit that bill, but so do the people implicated by the 42 percent of adults in the U.S. who said they know someone else who belongs to an online dating network. As the Digital Age ushers in a whole new genre of mobile dating applications, the reality of our increasingly social-networked society is changing the conventions around how we forge most of our relationships. One of the more interesting of these is the romantic kind, and thanks to the Pew Research Institute, we’ve got the numbers to prove it.

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By Anya Zentmeyer

Changing Attitudes Can Change After conducting two nationwide surveys, the first in 2005 and the second in 2013, exploring the Internet’s impact on dating and relationships, researchers at Pew charted a 15-point increase in respondents who agreed with the statement “online dating is a good way to meet people.” The numbers came in at 59 percent in 2013, which is up from 44 percent in 2005. Conversely, while 29 percent of 2005 respondents agreed with the statement: “people who use online dating are desperate,” that number fell to 21 percent in 2013. In the time between the first and second survey, so much of our communication technology was changing so rapidly. Facebook wasn’t a publicly available website in 2005 and Twitter hadn’t even been invented yet. Apple was two years away from introducing the iPhone and people still thought MySpace was a cool thing. Somewhere on the cusp of all of that change around 2007, Wyoming residents Ariel and Ben Kirsch were lying to their friends and family about how they met. Though they technically did have their first date at the former Grand Rapids coffee house Four Friends, for the first couple of years they were together, they didn’t mention the whole eHarmony thing. “I remember when we initially started dating, Ariel said, ‘Don’t tell people we met on eHarmony,’” Ben said. “‘Tell them we met somewhere else.’”

Instead, they used their first actual face-to-face meeting at the coffee shop as the official story among friends. In fact, nearly none of their family or friends knew Ariel and Ben met on eHarmony until the day of their wedding, when the couple stood at the front of the church looking out at the rows of packed pews, and their well-meaning pastor kicked off the ceremony by letting the cat out of the bag in front of their family, friends and God. “When we were dating we were just so vague about it,” Ariel said. “Now, we’ve been together for eight years and married for almost six and a half and we have three kids and so many people tell us how perfect we are for each other so it makes me really believe that ultimately, if you found someone who is just really perfect for you, why does it matter how you got to that point? Who cares if you met online?”

Swipe It & Quit It While the Pew report shows 23 percent of online daters have met a spouse or a long-term relationship through an online dating service, it’s in the 66 percent of online daters that have gone on a date (or whatever you want to call it) where Tinder comes in to play. Tinder is the Digital Age equivalent of a piece of notebook paper that says, “Do you like me? Check yes or no.” It requires you to link your Facebook account with the mobile app, using your profile pictures and basic info as the basis for its simple proximity-based aggregation of users in your area. Tinder cycles through these users’ Facebook photos

Weird Dating Sites

Sean is in a committed relationship now with someone and although he did not meet her on Tinder, the two reconnected using the app. While he will tell you he thinks “it’s generally kind of accepted that Tinder is a nightmare,” and nobody who uses it takes it too seriously, he will admit those kind of online dating platforms are still very much a part of what it means to be young and single in 2015. “I think if you’re from the younger generation it’s less of a sad, desperate thing and more of a normal thing,” he said. “If you’re of a certain age and you’re single, you’re probably on a dating app in one form or another.”

The New Normal

Looking for a more specific type of romance? Like, really, really specific? From the peculiar to the practical, these very real dating sites are for singles that know EXACTLY what they want in a partner.

Purrsonals If you find yourself walking away from too many dates with a cat-shaped hole in your heart, then Purrsonals is the purrfect way to find your purrfect match. Cats. Clown Dating We won’t claim to be experts on the culture of clown love, but even though this unlikely singles dating network boasts the tagline, “Everybody loves a clown…Let a clown love you,” somehow we think that’s just not true. Juggling home, work AND romance is a balancing act — but that’s just the type of thing users on Clown Dating are into. Sea Captain Date Unlike real boats, relationSHIPS need more than just one captain at the wheel. Unlike every other dating site ever, Sea Captain Date can make that happen. Farmers Only Because city folk just don’t get it. Tall Friends You don’t have to be the tallest person in the room anymore. Naturist Passion Spoiler alert — it’s for nudists! Cut right through the chit-chat and find some naked people online the legal way. Singles With Food Allergies Because it turns out the only person who could ever love someone with a peanut allergy is another person with a peanut allergy?

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

If you ask its spokesperson Rosette Pambakian, Tinder is part of the regime of social networking platforms creating new ways to solve age-old issues with communication breakdown. She says mostly, by virtue of its Choose Your Own Adventure design, it’s helping break the stigma of online dating by stripping its structure of all of the things that mandate romance. “The purpose of Tinder is social discovery — for people to meet and connect with mutually interested people nearby, whether it be for friendship, dating or any reason,” she said. “Essentially, all we’re doing is facilitating an introduction between two people that want to get to know each When online dating gets awkward: other better. Beyond that, it’s entirely up to them to figure Siblings Sean and Brooke Dailey find each other online… out what they want from the connection.” Photo: Seth Thompson It may be funded by the same guys who own OkCupid and Match.com, but it strips down all of those things that and you swipe left if you’re not interested or right if you put the pressure on romance and open the floor up to new want to message them. relationships and new friendships. Pambakian said people It’s easy and it’s casual, which is in part why it’s gained even use Tinder for networking and travel. so much popularity since hitting the app stores in 2012. “This essentially reduced the stigma attached to ‘online However, because Tinder links with your Facebook, the dating’ and makes us very different from the dating apps ability to remain in relative anonymity that comes along on the market today,” she said. with most other online dating platforms is lost on this social Remember Tayler? The normal girl who met a normal network, and it’s more than likely you’ll see a whole bunch guy on OkCupid and had a normal first date? She’s got a of too-familiar faces as you’re standing at the bar swiping boyfriend named Felix now and they’ve been dating for left and right with wild abandon. almost a year. He’s another successful OkCupid match — As a current resident of the Big Apple and a former not the same one she went on her first real life OkCupid Grand Rapidian, 21-year-old Cody Jones moved to New York date with, but the one that has made her a self-described City after landing a position at Nylon magazine. Although “online dating advocate.” he says Tinder isn’t quite as crowded with people you recog“I’ve always been an advocate for it,” she said. “I mean, nize as Grand Rapids, in his experience, it’s not a guarantee not in the same way as someone is an advocate for fighting you won’t ever see someone you know on Tinder and they AIDS in Africa, but I don’t think you should be afraid to won’t see you. do it because you think it makes you weird, or will make “You would think that you would feel more anonymous you ostracized for being a person who doesn’t know how on dating apps in a big city but it’s funny how many people to interact with society and has to find dates from behind you still do end up recognizing on apps like Tinder when a computer screen. I think it’s good, with respect to dating. you’re using them,” he said. You want to find someone you care about who also cares Sometimes, the people you recognize hit a little too about you and if you can use the tools available to date close to home. around and find that right person. How is that not a good “My sister saw my profile, took a screen shot of it and thing?” n then tagged me on Facebook,” said Sean Dailey, who lives in Grand Rapids. “I think that’s kind of indicative of the small town issue with dating websites because it’s not introducing you to anybody that you don’t already know and in its worst case scenario, it’s somebody you know too well.”

Different Folks, Different Strokes

Love Issue

The apps When it comes to the dating world, not everyone’s preferences are the same. Some are looking for love, while others are looking for lust. And then there are others that are strangely specific. Here are some things you can get out of these apps.

Get Laid Simple to use and based on location, these mobile dating apps are largely appropriated for those seeking, ahem, instant gratification. Tinder With a super simple user interface, the mobile dating app Tinder links up with your Facebook account so users within certain proximity of each other can swipe left or right depending on whether or not they’re interested in you based on your profile photo and basic interests. You can only message another user within the application if you both swiped right (for yes), but after mutual interest is established and messaging is enabled, Tinder leaves it up to you to decide how to make the next move. Cost: Free Platform: Mobile

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

Grindr Before there was Tindr, there was Grindr, so all you geo-social networking fans know whom to thank next time you use the app for instant gratification. Much like Tinder, Grindr uses your location to find other users nearby and displays profile photos by proximity to wherever you are. Unlike Tinder, Grindr doesn’t link with your Facebook, and is geared primarily toward only geared toward gay, bisexual and bi-curious men. Since hitting the app store six years ago, Grindr boats 10 million downloads and more than 5 million daily users.

and multiple-choice questions, the more you answer, the better OkCupid’s algorithm works to filter in your best potential matches. Cost: Free (with premium “A-List” upgrade options) Platform: Online (with a solid mobile app available) PlentyofFish Plenty of Fish is another basic, free online dating site with the standard hobby/interest-based matching system. An old reliable, Plenty of Fish doesn’t have any kind of interesting, new matchmaking approaches to speak of, but it’s simple, has a familiar feel and allows you to use pretty much all of its features without a premium upgrade. Cost: Free (with premium upgrade options) Platform: Online (with a solid mobile app available)

Get Hitched When you’re ready to settle down, these apps will help you find other singles interested in forging a long-term, committed relationship.

Cost: Free Platform: Mobile

Match.com Essentially an online personal ad, Match.com shows you other singles in your area with similar interests/ preferences based on a questionnaire. First one on the scene way back in April1995, Match may be the grandfather of online dating sites, but recent studies show it’s still getting more action than eHarmony, OkCupid or Plenty of Fish with 45 percent of online daters choosing the website and mobile app companion to find love.

Get Dates

Cost: Membership required for full use (free to browse) Platform: Online (mobile app available with limited features)

When you want more than a one-night stand but less than a legally binding document, these apps are best for singles looking to play the field. OkCupid If algorithm-based matching is what defines eHarmony, then OkCupid is the (free) eHarmony equivalent for IAC/InterActiveCorp, which also owns Match. com and invested big bucks in helping to create Tinder. With a boatload of member-created quizzes

22 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

eHarmony Though the online dating website eHarmony cropped up after Match.com in 2000, the long-term relationship-focused dating tool was the first to introduce a kind of scientific process to online matchmaking. Or, as its former CEO Greg Waldorf was quoted as saying, “It’s not about matching people who have certain hobbies … it’s about compatibility.” Cost: Membership required for full use (free to browse)

Platform: Online (mobile app available with limited features)

The Next Big Thing A new app poised for big growth in 2015 to check out when everything else starts to feel SO 2014. Hinge Having just raised $12 million last month to hire more developers, make app improvements and expand beyond its already existing 28 markets, Hinge is already being dubbed the MySpace to Tinder’s Facebook. Though Hinge uses the same simple, Facebook-generated swipe-yes, swipe-no format made familiar by Tinder, it doesn’t use proximity to generate users for judgment, but takes some of the guesswork out by using your own Facebook network to connect you with friends of friends, or friends of your friends’ friends. Cost: Free Platform: Mobile

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Love Issue

Date Ideas for those in love

When you’re in love, you’re so blissed out you could miss work for days or leave the house without pants. You live off that mushy, gushy stuff. When you’ve got big red hearts for eyes, go big or go home (alone) with lovey-dovey stuff that makes onlookers gag. By Missy Black

Valentine’s Skate Date

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

The Ice Rink 280 Romence Rd., Portage Feb. 14, 4:30 p.m. $15 per person (due by Feb. 12) (269) 329-4522

This private skating event at The Ice Rink in Portage is a memory maker for sure. Hold hands and get close with your special one while enjoying live music and dinner on the ice. This unique evening experience starts with dinner from Grand Traverse Pie Company. The meal is presented by a server on skates for a little entertainment. Following dinner, the rink is reserved for only those registered for this event, so there’s a little privacy: perfect for ogling at one another. The rink will re-open to the public at 6 p.m. so you’ll have to endure the public after that. Skate the night away and win prizes throughout the evening. “It’s a private event that’s something different for your sweetheart,” said Recreation Program Manager Tricia Keala. “Once the full dinner is done, you’re fit with skates.” Cuddle for warmth, argue over who looks cuter in their skates and bother other people to take your photo in numerous stages of schmaltz.

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The Art of Abstract Wine Tasting

Inspiring Hands Therapeutic Massage

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park 1000 E. Beltline NE, Grand Rapids Feb. 3 & 10, 6:30-9 p.m. $65 per person meijergardens.org, (616) 808-3600

813 W. South St., Kalamazoo inspiringhandsmassage.net, (269) 870-6915

Lovers require wine. Join the charismatic wine connoisseur Allie Merrick for an entertaining and educational evening of wine paired with light, mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres, art and natural beauty at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “Wine in general lends itself to a romantic setting,” said Guest Services Manager Katie Racey. “There’s mood lighting, you get to meet others and Allie takes wine she’s picked and compares them to our different plants and sculptures using characteristics to describe the wine.” This wonderful evening of wine, food and art pairings will enhance your appreciation and encourage you to define wine in your own words. “Guests will have new and multiple perspectives on wine. Last year we compared wines to The American Horse.” Get your mind off your main squeeze long enough to call and make the required reservations.

The art of wooing means putting your main squeeze at ease. Rejuvenate and relax together with a couples massage. Physical touch is one of the five love languages, so start talking with a visit to Inspiring Hands Therapeutic Massage. It offers a Duet Hot Cocoa Stone Massage that’s “Valentine’s Day inspired and more of an upgrade,” said Crystal Schippers, owner and licensed massage therapist. Imagine therapeutic hands-on techniques along with specialty aromatherapy oil and a cooling eye treatment enhancement. Indulge in a silky cocoa comfort massage balm followed by a deeply relaxing hot stone massage. Take your companion for a day experience to soothe the body and let it set the tone for a great day together. It’s the ultimate stress reliever that’s warm-fuzzies guaranteed. n

The Cakabakery 1436 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids thecakabakery.com, (616) 319-1611 Is your beloved a sugar freak? Whisk your true love off to The Cakabakery and present them with some sweet treats that are “one hundred percent homemade and fresh—which is rare these days,” said Owner Jason Kakabaker. Rare just like your love! Pick from cupcakes, cookies and cakes or share a large cake-a-long, a cake baked in a jar, that’s perfect for two. Go all out and have something custom made for you and your loved one (just remember to order out at least a week). Love is most certainly in the air here, as the shop has hosted a number of weddings inside and in their courtyard. Sweethearts will appreciate the tiny tables for sitting super close and nuzzling or saddling up to the bar to enjoy sweets, coffee and other drinks as a nice dessert spot after a meal. P.S. Restaurant Terra GR is just a lover’s stroll away.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Love Issue

Date Ideas for those in lust

If your heart isn’t the only thing throbbing for your lover, explore these lust-worthy rendezvous perfect for the hands-on couple who can’t get enough of each other. Intertwine your limbs, swing those glued-together hips and even discover scintillating new activities behind closed doors. By Audria Larsen Partner Yoga

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

The Studio Yoga, Kentwood Feb. 14, 3:30 p.m. $45 per couple thestudioyoga.com, (616) 209-8395 On St. Valentine’s Day proper, The Studio Yoga is offering a 90-minute partner yoga workshop where you can creatively connect with your squeeze and learn to guide each other into supported poses. “The intent is to have fun and try something enjoyable and relaxing with someone you care about,” said Jared Lazaro, co-owner. Although the concept can be intimidating, especially for those new to the art form, this partner yoga class is geared toward teaching you and your partner how to help each other achieve a feel-good stretch without the strain. But, for the adventurous, “there may be one or two challenge poses in there,” Lazaro said. Think balancing or strength movements that are slightly more acrobatic, but still accessible to newbies. Get your bend and flex on because you never know what other applications your new skill will be used for. (Wink. Nudge.) Plus, complimentary wine and goodies like chocolate are offered following the event.

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The Henderson Castle

Sugar House Blues

100 Monroe St., Kalamazoo Township hendersoncastle.com, (269) 344-1827

AA Creative Corridor 1133 S. Washington Ave., Lansing sugarhouseblues.com

Give in to your lust with a getaway at The Henderson Castle, which boasts a three diamond AAA rating. Or simply enjoy the Valentine’s Day dinner special offered on Feb. 13 and 14. This palatial estate, established in 1895, offers the usual luxuries to be found at a bed and breakfast, but with the added sex appeal of an old -world environment. Themed suites like the King’s Tower, the Queen’s Tower, the French Room, the Italian Room and even the Tibetan Room will allow you to live out your fantasies in a lush setting. Enjoy rollicking assignations fit for a king or queen — because we all know about the debauched royal lifestyles of yore. And when you are not mussing up the bed sheets, you can explore the private garden where fresh herbs and veggies are grown for the world-class restaurant. While you’re giving in to your whims, indulge in partner massage, manicures and pedicures, and even relax in the rooftop hot tub. Or make eyes at your loved one in public the Henderson Winery. Dinner is $110 for a couple and overnight rates range from $200-$275.

Make like Elvis and work those hips into a sensual frenzy at Sugar House Blues, a social dance community dedicated to the art of blues dancing. This style of close-partner dancing, that can also be done solo, has greatly influenced jazz dancing like swing and even contemporary hip hop. Forget about the mournful stereotype of the blues, as the genre is filled will vim and vigor and includes plenty of racy tunes, fit for a spicy night out with your lover. Not a dancer? Fear not, as traditional blues dancing is described as patternless (so you can’t mess up!). Sugar House Blues meets on the first and third Fridays of each month and offers a free beginner lesson from 8-9 p.m. Afterward, you can get down to the passionate sounds of the blues with a DJ’d open dance that runs until midnight. This month, events are held on Feb. 6 and 20, 8 p.m. until midnight. Admission is $5. n

Shibari Session $35 for an hour hislovelylittleangel@yahoo.com Passionate couples will enjoy a private Shibari (erotic rope bondage) session with Holland-based pros, Angel L’Amoure and Lord Thomas. Shibari, which simply means “to tie” in Japanese, goes beyond the ho-hum neck tie and bed post realm of naughtiness and dwells in a multifaceted world of erotic art that can be what you make it. “Rope is a perfect medium. It’s very versatile,” L’Amoure said. Well connected in the West Michigan rope community, L’Amoure and Thomas not only offer sessions in their studio space along with the option of in-home visits, but can connect farther flung folks to local practitioners. “One of the things we like to say is bondage at its best is safe, sensual and seductive.” For first timers, a casual consultation is booked in a public place like your favorite watering hole, where you will discuss what type of experience you are interested in and learn more about what to expect. “We don’t do this for a huge a profit,” L’Amoure said. “We do this to spread the love of rope and promote safety. There shouldn’t be taboo on it. It’s fun interacting with a partner.” Email to book.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Love Issue

Date Ideas for those going solo

Valentine’s Day is just a sad reminder of what you already know. You’re single, solo, alone, unattached. Basically a lone ranger in a sea of lovey dovey. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Sure, businesses are ready for the influx of couples wanting to outdo each other in the romance category. And then there are some places that give you the perfect opportunity to flaunt your solo status. By Lindsay Patton-Carson

Louie’s Trophy House 629 Walbridge St., Kalamazoo louieskzoo.com, (269) 385-9359

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

If you’re looking to avoid romance altogether, opt for a night out with your fellow single pals at the bar. Treat this day of love as any other night where it’s about booze and buddies. Louie’s Trophy House offers that rough-around-theedges appeal that will keep schmoopy and muffin away as they try to recreate The Notebook. If you love live music, Koffin Kats, Murder Party and The Sailor Kicks perform on Feb. 13. Specials that night include $4 Grey Goose and Wild Turkey. Go before 5 p.m. on Saturday and get $1 off all Michigan beers.

the company of a person versus sitting home alone.” Plus, you get the bonus of a breakfast buffet, which runs from 2-4 a.m. on Saturdays. Oh, well look at that. Valentine’s Day is a Saturday.

Club 616 info@club-616.com, (616) 490-1598 There are plenty of West Michigan couples looking for an adventurous single at Club 616. The club is the best place to meet up with swingers, if that’s your jam. Make this a Valentine’s Day to remember and be the object of affection for someone without the hassle of wining and dining them. On Feb. 7, there’s a 616 Naughty Valentine’s event, where you can forget your relationship status and mingle with others interested in exploring their sexuality.

Lady Godiva’s, Erica’s Erotic Treat Yo Self Anywhere Accessories, Studs $However-Much-Is-In-Your-Bank234 Market St. SW, Grand Rapids (616) 458-0300

Lady Godivas, Erica’s Erotic Accessories and Studs (all housed in the same building) offers all of Valentine’s Day pleasures without the commitment. According to General Manager Michelle Blair, Valentine’s Day is the one of the biggest days of the year for Erica’s Erotic Accessories, which sells adult novelty items. Blair also mentions the benefit of singles coming into Lady Godiva’s and Studs. “[It’s] entertainment they otherwise wouldn’t have,” Blair said about those going stag on V-Day. “You get

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Account OR, you can take all that money you would spend on a date and spend it on yourself. Get a massage, buy yourself some gourmet chocolates, get a new wardrobe. In case you need some ideas to get your SplurgeFest 2015 going, we have some: Spa! Harbor Health and Massage, Holland harborhealthandmassage.com Get a number of therapy treatments from relaxation and therapeutic mas-

sages to hot stone treatments, steam therapy and acupuncture. Books! Schuler Books, Grand Rapids schulerbooks.com Vault of Midnight, Grand Rapids vaultofmidnight.com The Bookman, Grand Haven bookmangrandhaven.com No matter what you’re into, there’s a book store for you. If comics and pop culture are what you’re looking for, Vault of Midnight is your Mecca. Schuler and The Bookman are two local shops that offer both new and used titles. Sift through the used sections and chances are you’ll find a recent best seller you’ve been eying at a reduced price. Art! Water Street Gallery, Douglas waterstreetgallery.com Gallery Uptown, Grand Haven galleryuptown.net If you’re a collector of all the fine things in life, add another one to your growing goods. Stop by Water Street Gallery in Douglas for a mix of artists from and outside of West Michigan that work in diverse mediums. The gallery is open Friday through Saturday, but personal appointments can be made during closed hours. Head up the lakeshore to Gallery Uptown, the oldest artist-owned gallery in Michigan. Support local West Michigan artists with a number of pieces available. n

Potterday: Harry Potter and the HalfBlood Prince Alamo Drafthouse, Kalamazoo Feb. 14, 2 p.m., $5 drafthouse.com/kalamazoo, (269) 532-7990 Spend Valentine’s Day afternoon with a few dozen Potterheads at Alamo Drafthouse. The Kalamazoo location is continuing its Potterday series, with Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince showing on Feb. 14. Grab a pint of Butterbeer (OK, Alamo only sells regular beer, but we can pretend) and enjoy HP surrounded by kindred spirits. When you’re in a room filled with HP fans and spending two hours with Harry, Ron and Hermione, there is really no way you could feel alone.

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Love Issue

Romantic Dining By Lindsay Patton-Carson

If your date’s a total mush-head but you’re not, you might be in trouble. But as the saying goes, you can fake it until you make it and that’s where we’re here to help. If you are clueless in the romance department, expectations might already be low. Wow your date by taking them to one of these romantic dining locales.

Schedule | Dining | sights | Sounds Scene

ast year, OpenTable did a diner’s choice list of the 100 most romantic restaurants in America. Michigan had only one restaurant make it in and lucky for us, it’s just a little drive away. The English Inn, Restaurant and Pub was originally a 10,000-square-foot house built for Irving Jacob Reuter, who was the general manager and president of Oldsmobile Corporation. Named “Medovue” by Reuter and his wife, Janet, the couple took residence in the house from 1928 until 1936. It was owned by the Roman Catholic Church for a while until everyone realized there was MONEY TO BE MADE! In 1989, the property was renovated into The English Inn, which is now full of romance and antiquated charm, if you’re into that. Even if you’re not, chances are you’ll be into the food. The menu offers seasonal specials and the classics, which feature a lot of lobster options, so you know it’s classy. “[The restaurant has] a really beautiful setting with mahogany-paneled walls, wood-burning fireplaces,” said Erik Nelson, managing partner at The English Inn. “It’s a real fine dining experience. It’s a rich and inviting atmosphere.” If you’re looking to step up your romance game, book a night at the inn under the Ultimate Michigan Getaway. The package includes a champagne dinner, breakfast and, of course, a luxurious room for you to, ahem, you know...

30 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

You can also bundle up and go peruse one of The English Inn’s 16 acres. “We have walking trails, we have a pergola that is straight out of the Great Gatsby,” Nelson said. “It’s down along the Grand River. It’s a beautiful setting.” The Piper (2225 South Shore Dr., Macatawa) has big, picture windows that overlook Macatawa Lake for added ambiance to your meal. “Water, to most people, just has a charm,” said Pat Eldean, owner and general manager of The Piper. “People go to the beach to see the sun set and the sun rise.” The restaurant ups the romance in February by placing light-up hearts up and down the main deck. These hearts take up the place where boats dock in the summer months. As for the food, Eldean has trusted Executive Chef Keaton Stearns to come up with savory dishes for the past 19 years. “He does an awesome job making a plate of food look appealing, as well as having a great balance of flavors,” Eldean said. Options include wood-oven pizzas, char-grilled duck, pork lollipop chop, butternut lasagna and The Piper’s most famous dish, almond-fried walleye. If you can’t pick a dish, Eldean encourages visitors to do what she does. “I go for the most unusual thing on the menu, something I wouldn’t cook at home.” Going with the H20 theme, Reds on the River (8 E. Bridge St., Rockford) is nicely placed on the banks of the Rogue River. While you may not want to sit out

Oh La La: The English Inn was named one of the most romantic restaurants in America in a 2014 OpenTable poll. Photo: Bret Maxwell on the patio and bask in the river’s beauty in February, the restaurant offers cozy fireplaces so you can take in the views from the warm indoors. There are a number of menu items ranging from filet mignon and Alaskan sockeye salmon to beet salad, carbonara and more. Get an intimate dining experience at Amore Trattoria Italiana (5080 Alpine Ave. NW, Grand Rapids), where you and your date can taste multiple courses while Chef Jenna guides you through them. If you want to indulge in some libations with your meal, a wine flight can be added on. The flight includes an explanation of each type by the house Italian wine expert.

Speaking of wine, if the reds and the whites are your idea of romance, try out a wine bar in West Michigan. The Wine Loft in Kalamazoo and Reserve in Grand Rapids offer romantic ambiance with opportunities to indulge. Both restaurants offer extensive wine lists and food pairings. You don’t need to be a wine snob to enjoy these joints, either. The people at each respective restaurant are knowledgeable in wine and in pairings so you don’t have to be. With these options, you’re sure to wow that special someone in your life. And if you don’t, well, we don’t have a return policy. Sorry. n

SurpriSe your valentine with the gift of Sight!

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

Kris Bowers Trio Dinner and a Show Friday, February 20, 6:30 PM Cityscape at the City Centre Downtown Kalamazoo

Soundscape. Improvised. Jazz. IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

fontanamusic.org | 269.382.7774

360 W Western Ave, 2nd Floor Muskegon, MI 49440 For tickets and program: westmichigansymphony.org facebook.com/AtTheBlock 231.726.3231

$20 Borghi & Teager, contemporary duo Sat, Feb 21, 7:30 pm Doors and bar open at 6:30 pm

A recording and live performance duo focusing on improvised ambient or, â&#x20AC;&#x153;jambientâ&#x20AC;? music. The duo combines guitars, winds and electronics to make each performance a unique experience.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

A fast-rising star of the jazz world, Kris Bowers delights with his fresh and vibrant take on music of all styles. Join us for an evening of fine dining and lively entertainment.

Win Free Stuff! If there is one thing we love around here, it’s free stuff. We’re not talking the prizes you get at the dentist for zero cavities. We’re talking about good free stuff, like a $50 gift card for a private shopping experience. Good free stuff like a classy night out. Good free stuff like a big-ass 170-oz. tub of gelato to share (or not, the choice is up to you). THIS is the stuff we love. Treat your significant other, treat your brother, your mother, your best friend or just TREAT YO SELF. All you have to do to is vistit revuewm.com/promotions each week to see which goodies we are giving away and register for your favorites.

Two branded stainless steel coffee travel mugs

Private “date night” shopping experience with drinks and one on one service. Incl. $50 gift card

thecakabakery.com

denym.com

$25 to a BarFly Restaurant (GRBC, HopCat, McFadden’s or Stella’s)

Free registration to Couples: Cooking w/ Beer

EcoTrek Whole Food Bars: 4 boxes dark choc raspberry bars

downtowngr.org

downtownmarketgr.com/classes

ecotrekbars.com

One $20 gift certificate

2 tickets to “Art+Chocolate: Seeing Red” / Saturday, February 14

2 general admission tickets and 2 planetarium tickets (2 packages available)

erbthaigr.com

artmuseumgr.org

grpm.org

Carriage ride from Common Gentry downtowngr.org

revuewm.com/promotions

6 tickets to Mega ‘80s on Valentine’s Day with a table reservation

One 172 oz. tub gelato

sectionlive.com

4gelato.com

Mondays

Happy Hour all day $3 craft beers $1.50 retro beers $3 off pizzas

Tuesdays

$2 wells $5 pulled pork

Wednesdays

ladies’ nigHt - till 6pM 1/2 off ladies’ drinks late boys’ nigHt 10-2aM

Dinner voucher for two (excludes alcohol)

One $50 gift card (for concerts or bar)

saltoftheearthfennville.com

pindropconcerts.com

Thursdays

$1.50 retro beers $5 nacHos 10pM-close free live Music

Fridays

buMp and wasH... take a well sHot cHase witH a retro beer

saTurdays

Valentine’s Day gift basket

$50 voucher towards food & beverage

sissyssweetshoppe.com

terragr.com

bloody Mary bar & bruncH:10-2pM $3 captain Morgan $5 glass of wine

Contest Details 2 tickets to any upcoming show thru June 2015 westmichigansymphony.org/the-block

Beginning February 1, visit revuewm.com/promotions to enter for that week’s prizes. Check back weekly through February for more chances to win. One entry per person, per week.

402 e kalaMazoo ave kalaMazoo, Mi 49007 (269) 381-5677 olddogtavern.coM

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

sundays

bloody Mary bar & bruncH:10-2pM $3 wells 5pM-close

GREAT BEER DESERVES GREAT MUSIC.

FEB

HOME FREE

with uKnight Mens Cappela | Covenant Fine Arts Center | 8pm | $20

UPCOMING EVENTS

PHOX

with special guest | Covenant Fine Arts Center | 8pm | $15

MAR

TRIP LEE

with special guest | Covenant Fine Arts Center | 8pm | $15

MAR

SON LUX

with CARE | Ladies Literary Club | 8pm | $15

Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

FESTIVAL

FAITH

MUSIC

MAR

WILL BUTLER CFAC | 8:30pm | $20

MARCH 26-28

MAR

LECRAE

Van Noord Arena | 9pm | $30

Visit bellsbeer.com for show times and event details.

FEB 5

Chicago Afro Beat Project wsg Medicinal Groove • Free Pleasant Drive wsg Big Sherb, Earphorik • $6 FEB 6 Super Happy Funtime Burlesque • $10 FEB 7 Kalamazoo Academy of Rock • 1pm, $5 FEB 8 Square Dance Kalamazoo • $5 FEB 9 Dragon Wagon • Free FEB 12 The Crane Wives wsg Henhouse Prowlers • $10 FEB 13 Digital Tape Machine & Turbo Suit* FEB 14 $13 advance, $15 day of FEB 15 Kalamazoo Men’s Choir • 4:30pm, $5 Homebrew Demo • 6pm, Free FEB 18 FEB 19 Fresh Hops wsg That Freak Quincy • Free Scythian* • $13 advance, $15 day of FEB 20 FEB 21 Young Heavy Souls Showcase • Free Sidewalk Chalk wsg The Mainstays • Free FEB 26 House of Boogie – All Vinyl Funk/Soul • Free FEB 27 FEB 28 Global Roots Music Festival • 11am, $5, $15/family FEB 28 Flypaper wsg Roostand* • $6 advance, $8 day of Buckwheat Zydeco* • $18 advance, $20 day of MAR 6 MAR 13 The Soil & the Sun wsg Flint Eastwood • $10 MAR 14 Pete Rock/Slum Village • $22 advance, $25 day of MAR 27 Jimkata • $10 APR 18 Charlie Hunter Trio* • $13 advance, $15 day of SUNDAYS Trivia every Sunday • 5-8pm (excludes FEB 15) *pre-sale tickets available at bellsbeer.com, frontgatetickets.com and Bell’s General Store.

Changing the conversation about popular culture.

www.calvin.edu/sao

34 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

616.526.6282

355 E. Kalamazoo Ave. • Kalamazoo, MI • 269-382-2332 Must be 21 for concerts. • For questions, email entertainment@bellsbeer.com. Thank you for supporting live music at Bell’s Eccentric Café.

FEB

/// local music MUSIC NEWS Elliot Brood (Toronto), Crow Moses (Chicago) and Grand Rapids’ rock and roll darlings Valentiger play at The Pyramid Scheme on Feb. 5. The show falls on the end of a string of Michigan dates for Valentiger, so expect a show as tight and magnificent as ever. Grand Rapids retro-rock takes over The Pyramid Scheme on Feb. 12 with Jesse Ray & The Carolina Catfish, Fathom 19 and JOE.

Bello Spark

PHOTO: Craig Finlay

Bello Spark Boasts Fresh Tunes, Expanded Lineup for Album No. 2 | by Nolan Krebs

The duo began writing songs as Bello Spark, and with the help of some wieldy musician friends, they pieced together their self-titled debut album in 2013. Boasting a solid blend of acoustic rhythm, atmospheric touches and three-part harmonies, the album won Best Album by a New Artist/Listener’s Choice at the 2013 WYCE Jammies. From there, the same drive that brought Jordan back to music propelled the group to play shows in 10 states and get two additional singles onto airwaves across the country. The group also picked up additional talents along the way, including singer-songwriter Cole Hansen, of the band Drawing Monsters. “(Hansen) has a jaw-dropping voice and writes some beautiful songs,” Jordan said. “We hit it off great with her and she started singing harmonies with us. In early 2014, we met a very talented, creative and energetic drummer, Jay Kolk, who we are also very excited to have in the band.”

Additionally, Zachary Guy, also of Simien the Whale, and Steve Sullivan, of Bless You Boys, have been trading bass duties for Bello Spark. The group will play as a trio Feb. 11 at SpeakEZ as the Local Spins Featured Artist, and has begun working on its second record. Working with Mackinaw Harvest Music Group and with Peterson handling production, the group has finished up demos and begun tracking with the full lineup, and are expecting a March release date. For more information on Bello Spark and to follow news about upcoming shows and releases, check out bellospark.com. n

Bello Spark

SpeakEZ Lounge, Grand Rapids Feb. 11, 8 p.m. speakezlounge.com, (616) 458-2689

The Crane Wives play at Bell’s on Feb. 13 with Chicago bluegrass ensemble Henhouse Prowlers. The Kalamazoo Male Chorus also play at Bell’s on Feb. 15 for a “A Bell-entine Affair: Love is (still) in the air.” If you’re looking for something to do on Valentine’s Day, bring along a loved one for some wholesome, old-fashioned tunes. The Reptilian (Kalamazoo), Solids (Montreal), Annabel (Kent, Ohio) Everyone & Their Cups (Kalamazoo) and Boring People (Kalamazoo), are bringing an eclectic mix of shoegaze and classic emo tunes to Louie’s Trophy House and Grill on Feb. 20.

Cooper’s Glen 2015, The Great Lakes Acoustic Music Festival, takes place Feb. 20-21 at Radisson Plaza Hotel in downtown Kalamazoo. Performances from Grammy Award-winner Tim O’Brien, Special Consensus, Anne Hills and more, plus workshops Saturday from noon to 5:30 p.m. Grand Haven musician Dave Palmer will perform with different guest musicians at the Grand Haven Community Center on Feb. 28. Check it out to see a whole bunch of West Michigan musicians come together for an open jam of sorts.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

r a n d R a p i d s n at i v e Rob Jordan isn’t n ew b lo o d in the music scene ‘round these parts. He’s been writing and performing tunes in one capacity or another for more than a decade. In 2007, however, after almost eight years of steady gigging, Jordan’s band at the time called it quits and he packed up for Chicago. He took up full-time work away from music and didn’t write a note for three years. But something brought him back to it in 2011 and he couldn’t quite shake it. “I started finding music again and started writing like crazy,” Jordan said. It was at that time that he reconnected with Tory Peterson, a member of GR pop outfit Simien the Whale and a good friend he had met in 2003 through various bands. “Realizing that the distance could be beaten, demos and riffs turned to songs, soon we were energized, and began recording sessions in Tory’s home studio,” Jordan said.

The 16th annual WYCE Jammies award show will take over The Intersection on Feb. 13 and features 20 of West Michigan’s best artists on two stages. The event boasts performances from The Verve Pipe, Mustard Plug, The Accidentals, Alexis, The Concussions, Dante Cope, Ghost Heart, Maraj, May Erlewine, The Muteflutes, Vox Vidorra and more.

/// ON TOUR

Jason Isbell Shares Roots of Emotional New Album | by Eric Mitts

D PHOTO: Michael Wilson

e s p ite its d e e p an d dark subject matter, Jason Isbell’s latest album is a celebration of second chances. Completely clean for the first time in his career – that includes six hard-drinking years with alt-country rockers Drive-By Truckers, and another six with his backing band The 400 Unit – the Alabamaborn Isbell headed to Nashville. There he recorded Southeastern, his fourth solo effort, which he released in 2013 to widespread acclaim. “A lot of the songs have had connections with folks,” Isbell said about the emotional, and oftentimes personal, songs on the album. “‘Elephant’ I think especially comes to mind because a lot of people have had to deal with illness and death and relationships in that way.”

Returning to the road, he has since shared more of his struggle for sobriety as he’s toured the country and confronted his demons all over again. “I kind of put myself in the place I was in when I wrote the songs every night,” Isbell said. “The hard part sometimes is just not being too emotionally affected by the things that I’m singing. Sometimes it’s really hard not to get choked up onstage.” In addition to being a triumph of spirit, Southeastern holds a special place in Isbell’s heart because he finished recording it just two days before marrying his new wife, singer/songwriter/violinist Amanda Shires. “I just wish I had her in the studio more,” Isbell said about Shires, who appears with him on Southeastern’s road lament, “Travelling Alone.” “She was working on planning the wedding, so she didn’t get to come in there every day, but it was really important for me to document that

particular period in my life just because a lot of really good things were happening.” Although he doesn’t plan on premiering any new songs on this tour, Isbell said he has finished about 13 songs for his next album, which he plans to record in Nashville in March for a release sometime this summer. In the meantime, Shires, who acts as both his editor and his muse, will be listening carefully. “She just has good taste,” Isbell said. “If something I write in a song doesn’t work, she’ll be the first, and sometimes the only person, to call me out on it.” n

Jason Isbell wsg Damien Jurado Kalamazoo State Theatre, Kalamazoo Feb. 13; 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show $35 reserved seating, $29.50 student seating kazoostate.com, (269) 345-6500

Halo | Mass Effect | Final Fantasy | God of War

Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Nestlé Gerber SymphonicBoom

36 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Series Sponsor:

Sat., February 7 | 8 pm DeVos Performance Hall

Immerse yourself in your favorite video games.

This concert explores the thematic stages of a hero’s journey through music from beloved franchises like Halo, Final Fantasy, Mass Effect and much more. Dramatic gameplay footage is perfectly synced with live orchestra and chorus for an unforgettable concert experience!

| CALL Day 616.454.9451 x 4

EvE 616.885.1241 |

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REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Music. deFined. February 7 - $35

Glen PhilliPs of

Toad The WeT SprockeT

February 8 - $22

Charlie Mars

glen PhilliPs

February 14 - $22

Mouths of BaBes

February 20 - $18

JD eiCher + Charlie oxforD March 7 - $18 Mouths oF babes

Ken Yates + Brian Dunne March 21 - $22

hillarY reYnolDs BanD March 28 - $18

ruth & Max BlooMquist BanD hillary reynolds band

Schedule | Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

darlingside

March 31 - $22

DarlinGsiDe + tall heiGhts

check webSite for Seating optionS. bar avaiLabLe. MaJor credit cardS accepted. 21+

For a Full schedule, visit tall heights

Seven StepS up Live MuSic & event venue: 116 S JackSon St. Spring Lake, Mi 49456 pindropconcertS.coM (231) 557-7687

38 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

PindroPconcerts.coM.

/// On Tour

PHOTO: Ford Fairchild

Cherub Infuses Modern Pop with Old-School Work Ethic | by Carly Plank

hen Jason Huber and According to Huber, all of the best bands J o r dan K e lley m et, are self-made. they never doubted their abilities “If a shortcut [to success] is found, you will to make music a full-time career. fall as quickly as you rise, but we have slowly The two were attending Middle built a grassroots following similar to how it was Tennessee State University’s recording industry before [the] Internet existed as a promotional program when they formed Cherub in 2010. tool.” Sounding like Daft Punk on muscle relaxants, Huber and Kelley have stood by their the two have made a living on stretched-out taking-it-to-the-streets philosophy to set them electro-pop jams. Cherub’s apart from the one-hit wonmusic, simultaneously careless ders and wunderkinds on the like a lazy Sunday and wound “We never predicted charts today. The duo is on tight like a Saturday night, that ‘Doses’ would be tour more than they are at found a niche with the spread or in the studio, which the song that everyone home of its YouTube hit “Doses and is why the latest Cherub EP shared. With all the Mimosas” in early 2014. consists of songs conceived “We never predicted that drug references, it’s during previous recording ‘Doses’ would be the song sessions. that everyone shared. Mainly been crazy hearing “Leftovers is all the music because of the lyrical con- it on alternative and that we made during the tent,” Huber said. “With all recording sessions of Year of mainstream radio.” the drug references, it’s been the Caprese,” Huber said. “So crazy hearing it on alternative the idea was to get it out there and mainstream radio.” before we started working on new material for But drug references aren’t the group’s go- the next album.” to. Often, Cherub’s music puts a psychedelic In the meantime, Cherub has been tourspin on breakups, coping mechanisms and the ing with no end in sight, and enjoying every duality of life’s choices. second. n In addition to the five million plays on YouTube, signing to Columbia Records further pushed the duo’s chances at success. Rather Cherub wsg Mystery Skulls and Forte than stifling creativity, signing with a major Bowie label allowed Kelley and Huber to take root in The Intersection, Grand Rapids their hometown of Nashville and continue to Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. produce music how they always had: By writing $15 in advance, $17 day of show collaboratively and editing their material with sectionlive.com, (616) 451-8232 ProTools in a friend’s studio.

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining | Schedule

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

40 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

VISUAL ART

by Kerri VanderHoff

Other Art Events 19th Annual Garage Sale Art Fair

Kalamazoo Expo Center & Fairgrounds Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. $2 garagesaleartfair.com If you like art fairs and you love a good bargain, this is the show for you. 125 art fair artists will be selling their overstocks, seconds, leftover supplies and things they’re just tired of, for bargain prices. Find deals in painting, photography, jewelry, clothing, ceramics, glass and more. Remember, think garage sale and bring your cash!

Kimono“Flowers”; Yuzen style dyeing by Moriguchi Kak (1909-2008), 1983, silk, The Museum of Modern Art, Shiga, Japan

China: The Life of the Civilian

GVSU Blue Wall Gallery, Pew Campus Through April 25, 2015 gvsu.edu/artgallery, (616) 331-2563 Life in the sprawling city of Kunming, in southwest China, reminded Grand Valley State University student photographer, Megan Lendman, of the vitality of Chicago or New York City. Megan’s images of her monthlong study trip to Kunming capture both the exotic and the familiar; while exploring the remarkable similarities and differences of our two cultures.

Between a Spot and Not So Familiar Place

Aquinas College Arts Center Gallery Through Feb. 13, 2015 aquinas.edu/art/gallery, (616) 632-8900

Becoming Familiar through the Splendors of Shiga

isters share a unique bond. From childhood through adult years, the relationship develops as we come to a deeper appreciation of both our similarities and our differences. We can learn a lot from each other, and at times help broaden each other’s perspectives, especially when in the context of that trusted familial environment. Sister state relationships share a unique bond as well, one that also grows and deepens over time. Michigan and Shiga Prefecture joined together in 1968 to form a sister state relationship, and according to the Sister State Program, it is the oldest and most comprehensive partnership between the United States and Japan. Within the sister state relationship there are 17 official sister cities and friendship cities, including the one between Grand Rapids and Omihachiman, a city within Shiga Prefecture. These longstanding relationships have been important in the participation of crosscultural activities such as student and teacher exchanges, cultural events and economic development initiatives. With the 2015 opening of the new Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden at

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, the extraordinary relationship between Michigan and Shiga is sure to reach new levels. Timed to lead up to and coincide with the opening of the Japanese Garden is an exhibition of more than 60 iconic works of art displayed in the sculpture galleries. The exhibition, Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan, is on view through Aug. 16. “When we began (our) earliest discussion about building a Japanese Garden, we of course spoke with our local Omihachiman leaders,” said Joseph Becherer, chief curator and vice president for collections and exhibitions. “When a Frederik Meijer Garden & Sculpture Park delegation visited Japan three and a half years ago, Shiga was a part of that itinerary and the notion of the exhibition was born. (It’s) an opportunity to celebrate Japan through the richness of the vast cultural splendor in Shiga.” The exhibition provides the opportunity to learn more about our Japanese sister state, which in turn will deepen our appreciation for the themes and ideas visitors will encounter in the Japanese Garden when it opens later this year. “Because the Japanese Garden is really a work of art, there are a myriad of connections to the exhibition,” Becherer said. “Foremost,

perhaps is the reverence for nature evidenced in so many works in the exhibition; another is the emphasis on design and seeking beauty in everyday life.” Nearly all of the works on display have never been seen outside of Japan, and numerous important national and regional items are on loan for the first time. The display will feature hand-painted scrolls and screen paintings, centuries-old Buddhist statuary and devotional objects, ancient and contemporary kimonos, tea ceremony objects and famed Shigaraki and Shiga-area pottery. The exhibition will unfold in three successive parts, encouraging return visits to fully explore the layers of meaning represented in objects spanning the 17th century through present day. The Winter theme runs through March 22; the Spring theme is on view March 28 through June 4; the Summer and Fall theme begins June 10 and remains on view through Aug. 16. n

Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Through Aug. 16, 2015 meijergardens.org, (616) 957-1580

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Diing | Schedule

Philadelphia-based artist and Aquinas alumnus Patrick Maguire is featured in a solo show called Between a Spot and Not So Familiar Place. Maguire is Michigan native who completed his MFA at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art. His work has been published in New American Paintings and has recently exhibited at Space 1026 in Philadelphia. Maguire’s show consists of paintings and installations that wander through the gravity of one’s presence, the known and unknown. His works celebrate a harmony woven between skewed architectural frameworks and fusing visions.

Konan Ware, bowl with clouds and cranes, Edo 19th century, Porcelain with overglaze red and gold, blue underglaze, Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park, The Museum of Contemporary Ceramic Art, Shiga, Japan

By Allison Parker

Theatre

Other Performing Arts Events Opera Grand Rapids presents Noah’s Flood

Fountain Street Church, Grand Rapids Feb. 13-15, show times at 3 & 7:30 p.m. $12.25-$27.50, students: $5 operagr.org, (616) 451-2741 Local artists, students and professionals will join Opera Grand Rapids in retelling the famous tale of Noah’s Ark. The production’s high point is a spectacular animal parade during which the audience is invited to sing along. An additional musical treat comes later on, when an assortment of atypical instruments create the sounds of the savage storm.

Grand Rapids Ballet presents Swan Lake

Peter Martin Wege Theatre, Grand Rapids Feb. 6-8, 13-15; show times at 2 & 7:30 p.m. $40 grballet.com, (616) 454-4771 When Prince Siegfried goes swan hunting, he is astonished to see one of his would-be prey transform into a beautiful young woman. The maiden is actually the Swan Queen Odette, cursed to remain a swan until a prince makes her a vow of everlasting love. Prince Siegfried attempts to break with spell, but an evil sorcerer tricks him into declaring his adoration to the wrong woman. This tragic love story from Tchaikovsky remains one of ballet’s finest.

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

STOMP

Miller Auditorium, Kalamazoo Feb. 27, 8 p.m. $35-$50 millerauditorium.com, (269) 387-2300 An innovative troupe that blends dance, theatre and percussion, STOMP uses a variety of everyday objects to create terrific rhythms. In one of the group’s most famous numbers, performers play a dance-like basketball game in which the bouncing balls provide mesmerizing beats. Other unlikely instruments in the production include matchboxes, brooms, garbage cans and more.

42 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Euriamis Losada (Ricky Ricardo) and Thea Brooks (Lucy Ricardo) in the national tour of I LOVE LUCY® LIVE ON STAGE

Photo: Justin Namon

A Lucy Valentine

u d i e n c e s f o r I Love Lucy Live on Stage expect to enter an auditorium and watch. What they actually do is enter a time machine and join. Presenting Lucy for the first time live and in color, this special production whisks audiences back to the ‘50s, where they become the studio audience for the filming of two “I Love Lucy” episodes. TV lovers enter nostalgia heaven as a host introduces them to the technological novelty that is television. The vintage vibe continues even between acts, with “I Love Lucy” sponsors, The Crystaltone Singers, performing old-school advertising jingles. There’s even a period game show for audiences to try their luck at as well. At the heart of the show are staged versions of two actual “I Love Lucy” episodes — “The Benefit” and “Lucy Has Her Eyes Examined.” Both episodes share a common theme of Lucy trying to get into showbiz and both are chock-full of farcical Lucy she-

nanigans. The first episode features our feisty heroine sabotaging one of Ricky’s speeches, while the second reveals her staggering around nearly blind. When selecting these particular adventures, the production’s creators sifted through all 179 “I Love Lucy” episodes to find ones that would be feasible and fresh. The presence of musical numbers and all four lead characters was also a must. As far as adapting these episodes for the stage, the production’s cast and crew continually make careful adjustments to proportion artifice with verisimilitude. “Translating a TV show for theatre purposes is always a challenge for the director and the cast,” said Thea Brooks, who plays Lucy. “We all have to work to find a level of truth that exists in a sort of heightened state. .... We’re gonna be projecting the lines and the emotions and the choreography up to a higher level than we would otherwise if it was just being filmed — so just you know, kicking it up a notch but then keeping it

truthful at the same time — that balancing act.” An additional hurdle for the onstage production comes from diehards of the TV series who view the new version with suspicion and anxiety. I Love Lucy Live on Stage responds to these fears by claiming only to celebrate its source material, not replace it. “I think some people, if they are giant ‘Lucy’ fans, they’re a little afraid to see what’s being done with it, but we call it a valentine to the ‘I Love Lucy ‘show, what we are doing, and I think that’s true. It’s a tribute — we aren’t imitating anybody. It’s just in honor of the show,” Brooks said. n

Broadway Grand Rapids presents I Love Lucy Live on Stage DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids Feb. 10-12, 7:30 p.m., $25-$60 broadwaygrandrapids.com, (616) 235-6285

Described by The New York Times as “a breath of fresh air,” Aspen Santa Fe Ballet has a high-octane, cutting-edge, entertaining style that’s been earning them fans wherever they go. With rugged athleticism and liquid grace, the ensemble’s top-flight dancers performs a soaring program for all audiences.

Since its hit run on Broadway decades ago, Mummenschanz has been enchanting all ages with its amazing world of creatures, situations and shapes, creating a universe and telling “stories” where the only sound is audience laughter.

“Witty madness...dazzling and delightful.”

–The New York Times

ASPEN SANTA FE BALLET

Wednesday, March 25 at 7:30pm Variety Series Sponsor

Thursday, April 16 at 7:30pm Media Sponsor

Media Sponsor

Generously sponsored by Foresight Group.

The greatest jazz vocalist to emerge in years. This stunning young singer gets inside each tune, the way an actress inhabits a role. Hear the future of jazz, now.

Ira Glass, host of NPR’s This American Life, joins up with two extraordinary dancers for a lively, funny, “talky” evening of stories and dance about love, loss, and being a performer. Don’t miss out – this show brought down the house at Carnegie Hall!

“Ms. McLorin Salvant has it all. If anyone can extend the lineage of the Big Three – Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Ella Fitzgerald – it is her.”

“Equal parts heart and humor.” –Washington Post

–The New York Times

THREE ACTS, TWO DANCERS, ONE RADIO HOST: IRA GLASS, MONICA BILL BARNES & ANNA BASS

Wednesday, April 29 at 7:30pm

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Style Notes

by Missy Black

QUEEN OF HEARTS A royal round up of what’s red hot…

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

Our Queen of Hearts is in control in the crimson Diana dress ($44) that’s easy to jazz up, tone down and wear a multitude of ways in comfy, jersey material. “Red is a power color for women and is associated with love and passion,” said Kristi Kettler, owner of Sparrow Boutique in Muskegon that’s recently moved into a larger space. This very flattering frock can be prettied up with a long, swinging necklace or paired with “flats, pumps or booties.” Kettler loves it with a blazer or jacket. Throw on dainty heart studs ($12) to put the signal out.

*Off with your head! I think not with the Kate Spade knit hat with grosgrain bow. $98, Studio K Clothing Company in Holland

44 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

*CAT Footwear’s Megs boot is comfortable and confident with a red plaid grunge vibe. $110, catfootwear.com

*This lipstick Red Tank with silver studs is a sultry layering piece. $42.50, Gina’s Boutique in Grand Rapids.

*I’m swooning over this lovingly hand printed, organic cotton heart tea towel. $18, artgoodies.etsy.com and artgoodiesonline.com

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indie film

By Josh Spanninga

OK, West Michigan. Again we find ourselves nearing the tail-end of winter, but not quite yet at the cusp of spring. Yes, we are stuck smack dab in that awkward liminal state commonly referred to as February. Don’t fret, though. Whether you find yourself alone on Valentine’s Day or are trying to shake off the feeling of an ominous Groundhog’s Day fortune, West Michigan film will always be there to help console you. Check out some of these local screenings to help ward off the end-of-winter blues.

Satellite Records Teams Up with Alamo Drafthouse to Present Records Collecting Dust

et’s face it. For die-hard music fans, collecting vinyl isn’t just a hobby — it’s a way of life. No one understands this obsession better than the folks at Satellite Records in Kalamazoo, the same folks who have teamed up with Alamo Drafthouse Kalamazoo to screen the documentary Records Collecting Dust on Feb. 20. This brand new documentary is custom made for the subculture-savvy music nerd, featuring interviews with alternative music icons such as Jello Biafra, Mike Watt and metal-god Matt Pike, amongst a whole slew of other musicians and record label owners. Audiences get a peek inside the prodigious record collects of these icons, including anecdotes about how collecting vinyl influenced their own music careers. The one-time-only screening starts at 7 p.m. at Alamo Drafthouse Kalamazoo, with a full beer and food menu available for the event. For more information, visit drafthouse.com/kalamazoo. n

Still shot from Watermark, showing at UICA. Photo: Edward Burtynsky

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

WMEAC Closes Out 2014-2015 Film Series with Watermark

or a lot of people, movies are a good way to escape reality for a bit and immerse oneself in an entertainment-filled cocoon of euphoric film bliss. For documentary addicts, however, film serves a role as the perfect vehicle for educational enlightenment and a means to broaden one’s worldview. Josh Leffingwell, communications director at the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), definitely sees the value in the latter category, and has teamed up with local theaters and businesses to bring about the WMEAC Film Series. “One of the ways that a lot of people get environmental education is just through watching documentaries,” Leffingwell said. “It’s how a lot of people get introduced to these topics, and we knew that there were a number of documentaries out there that pertained to issues that specifically affect West Michigan.” It was because of this fact that WMEAC first implemented the annual series roughly six years ago. Since its inception,

46 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

WMEAC has shown numerous documentaries pertaining to environmental issues relevant to West Michigan and surrounding communities, with topics ranging from the removal of dams to fracking. In addition to the film, WMEAC brings in guest speakers to discuss topics explored in each documentary and to give audiences ideas for ways in which they can take action in their communities. Within the past couple of years, the series has been picking up steam, attracting wider audiences and boosting ticket sales. “Last year we had shown the movie Trashed at Celebration! Cinema, and we sold out one of the entire theaters, so it just continues to grow year in and year out,” Leffingwell said. To end their 2014-2015 season, WMEAC will be partnering with the UICA to screen the documentary Watermark on Feb. 3. In the documentary, filmmakers travel across continents to see how people in various communities use water in their day-to-day lives. World-renowned photographers incorporate

ultra high-definition filming equipment to produce a visually stunning account of the global impact of water consumption. “It’s shot by a world-renowned photographer and the imagery is incredible,” Leffingwell said of the film’s cinematography. And considering West Michigan’s abundance of fresh water, it’s easy to see why event organizers chose a film with this subject matter to close out the season. “In West Michigan we use water differently than other people, specifically when we’re dealing with the Great Lakes,” Leffingwell said. “Since we have a river that runs right through the Great Lakes and through our city, we have to realize all the various ways that people are using that water and what huge value the Great Lakes have not just for West Michigan, but for the entire world.” Watermark will start at 6 p.m. at the UICA, with a discussion following the film, all for a $5 suggested donation. And if you find yourself hankering for more environmental documentaries after the event, don’t worry – WMEAC has already started planning their 2015-2016 film series, and is always receptive of audience feedback. “We’re always taking recommendations if people have seen a great film,” Leffingwell said. “This is a great chance to see it not just on Netflix or on your TV, but to come out to an actual theater, support a nonprofit and get a bunch of people energized about a topic.” n

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

by Anya Zentmeyer

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

UGGOS NEED NOT READ ON Michael Kosta’s sophomore stand-up album brings more edge to observational wit

IAN BA

FebruaryG5G-7

MICHAaErLyK12OS-T14A Febru

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

FebrRuIS PORT ary 1 ER 9-21

IN M A J N E 8 OWeEbNruBary 26-2 F

FUNNIEST PERSON IN GR

Wednesday Nights

48 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

e f o re we g et starte d, let’s g et o n e th i n g strai g ht: Michael Kosta’s new stand-up album, in his own words, “was written for, and designed to be enjoyed by, very attractive people,” and so by extension, this column was, too. Just kidding. In his latest release, Comedy for Attractive People, Kosta says on the track, “You’re Ugly,” “…if you’re sitting here right now and you’re going ‘I don’t really know if I like this guy,’ you’re an ugly piece of s**t, OK? It wasn’t written for you.” Though Kosta’s new album still features the usual brand of selfaggrandizing humor his fans are accustomed to, age and experience color many of the punchlines in the jokes featured. “I’m not an angry comic by any means, but there’s definitely a little bit more angst in this album than what I’ve done in the past,” Kosta said. “It was just so exciting to be in such a fun, creative profession and now that I’ve been doing it a little bit longer, it’s not that it isn’t fun and exciting, but I’m a little bit more weathered, a little bit more experienced and have a little bit more awareness about Michael Kosta the industry, and I think a lot of that Dr. Grins, Grand Rapids Feb. 12-14, show times at observation and experience comes out in 5:30, 8, 9 and 10:30 p.m. my jokes.” $5-$15 An Ann Arbor native, Kosta spent thebob.com, (616) 356-2000 his college years at University of Illinois, where he won four Big Ten championships for tennis and majored in public speaking. He spent two years as the host of Fox Sports Detroit’s CCHA All Access, for which he won the Michigan Emmy Award he’s pictured holding on the cover of his freshman comedy album, Champion (2009). He began doing comedy full-time in 2006 and since then has landed his own Comedy Central Presents special, performed at the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal and appeared on “Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “Conan” and “Chelsea Lately.” “If you look at the beginning of my comedy, it was pretty much a single guy on stage trying to get laid,” Kosta said. “Now I’m 35, a lot of my fans “When it’s 63 [degrees] are married with kids, all of my friends are married. in Michigan people are Everyone is kind of evolving, and myself and my comedy are included in that.” celebrating like it’s New He said his home state is still one of his favorite Year’s Eve. Rooftop bars places to perform with the best audience for jokes like the one titled “Michigan Mentality.” In it, are opening, buckets Kosta jokes, “when it’s 63 in Michigan people are of Corona for sale. … celebrating like it’s New Year’s Eve. Rooftop bars Three days later, we’re are opening, buckets of Corona for sale. …Three days later, we’re shoveling snow off of the tops of shoveling snow off of our cars.” the tops of our cars.” “I’m from Michigan, obviously, so when I do those jokes in Grand Rapids it’s always fun because

these are people that completely understand and relate to me,” Kosta said. “I was just in Atlanta and I do jokes about Michigan and they like them, but people like them a lot more in Michigan.” Kosta most recently took the Grand Rapids stage during LaughFest 2012 and when he performs at Dr. Grins Comedy Club at the B.O.B. this month, said audiences can expect a little bit of old stuff and a lot of new stuff, ranging in subject matter that includes “everything from relationships and sex to how stupid my parents are,” he said. “They’re getting dumber every day ... and the scary part is they care less,” he said about his parents. “They used to care that they were dumb and now they’re dumb and they don’t give a s**t.” n

OW! N E L A S N O S (search LaughFest) TICKEViT sit ticketmaster.com Plenty of fun for all ages in the

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REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

by Kyle Austin

LIT LIFE

Other Literary Events Taste of Soul Sunday

Grand Rapids Public Library – Main Branch Feb. 15, 1-4:30 p.m. grpl.org, (616) 988-5400 Returning for the tenth straight year, Taste of Soul Sunday is the Grand Rapids Public Library’s celebration of African American history and culture. Come hang out and explore a wide variety of art, music, literature, history and food at this event, free and open to the public.

Grand Valley Writers Series - Jamaal May and Tarfia Faizullah

University Club – GVSU Pew Campus Feb. 16, 6-8:45 p.m. gvsu.edu, (616) 331-5000

Schedule | Dining | Sights Sounds | Scene

February brings a duo of accomplished young Michigan poets to the GVSU stage: Detroit’s Jamaal May won the American Library Association’s Notable Book Award for his most recent collection, Hum, while Tarfia Faizullah took home a prestigious Pushcart Prize for her 2014 release, Seam. Together, they direct the Organic Weapon Arts Chapbook Press & Video Series.

Barnes and Noble Monthly Book Group

Barnes and Noble – Kalamazoo Feb. 4, 7 p.m. barnesandnoble.com, (269) 324-1433

Join other bookworms in this monthly group discussion series. February’s selection is Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See, a New York Times best-seller about a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France.

50 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Love at First Page: Local Romance Author’s Debut is One Wild Ride

h e ruth le ss explo its o f a mach ete wielding maniac and the seesaw passions of star-crossed lovers may seem light-years apart to many fiction lovers, but Micheala Lynn believes otherwise. Since her days as a graduate student, the West Michigan-based author has transitioned seamlessly from an aspiring horror writer with a serious Stephen King addiction into one of the brightest emerging talents in the lesbian romance genre. “People laugh when I say this, but there’s not that much difference between horror and romance,” Lynn said. “It’s all about the tension . . . that’s what drives a good story.” Micheala Lynn There’s plenty of tension Schuler Books and Music, Grand to be found in Lynn’s debut Rapids Feb. 26, 7 p.m. novel, Jagged Little Scar, which has schulerbooks.com, (616) 942-2561 earned her consideration for Best Contemporary Lesbian Romance from both the Golden Crown Literary Society and the Lambda Literary Awards. The story follows the sudden collision of two wounded women: Jodi Price, a prolific musician struggling to come to terms with a tragic accident that marred her vocal chords, and Sam Werstler, a computer geek who has become withdrawn in the wake of a toxic relationship. The story begins with the pair’s first meeting, as Sam’s friends drag her out to see Jodi’s band perform. Despite the accident, Jodi still plays guitar, and Sam is instantly transfixed by her reservedyet-dynamic stage presence. Needless to say, sparks fly and the two women are quickly entangled, setting off on a turbulent journey in search of happiness together. Lynn seems largely interested in the unique chemistry that propels the trajectory of all relationships, literary or otherwise. “They say that opposites attract, and that might be sort of true, but I think that our experiences in life can compliment each other while also adding a lot of tension to things,” she said.

Micheala Lynn will be appearing at Schuler Books and Music on Feb. 26.

Lynn’s characters tend to be odd parings for just that reason, and their development showcases life’s capacity to transform us. Her forthcoming second book, for instance, matches a forensic anthropologist with a kindergarten teacher, while in her third novel, currently in progress, a former athlete confined to a wheelchair faces new difficulties in trying to have a relationship. More than the tropes and formulas that people often reduce romance fiction to, Lynn explores how our individual experience shapes the way we connect intimately with others. “We all have these moments where we can look back and say, there was life before this, and then there was life after this,” she said. As far as validating her genre, Lynn isn’t out to do that, nor does she have any agenda to push in writing about LGBT relationships. “I’ve grown up in West Michigan – a fairly conservative area – and the interesting thing that comes up a lot of times is that for me and a lot of people in the LGBT community, it’s just the way things are, we don’t think about it that much,” she said. “A lot of times, it’s the conservative straight community that thinks about it a lot more than we do.” Instead, Jagged Little Scar is Lynn drawing plainly from her own experience. And that’s a powerful statement all on its own. “At the heart of it, it’s just a good love story,” she said. “Most people just want to find that one person, and wherever that can be found, that should be a good thing.” n

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10 TH ANNUA

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PERFORMANCES Karisa Wilson IMANI Singers of Grand Rapids Serita’s Black Rose 61Syx Teknique

LEARN & DISCUSS PRESENTATIONS Whatever Happened to Idlewild? Growing Up in Auburn Hills The Auburn Hills Neighborhood: Race and Grand Rapids from Past to Present Storyteller John Steven Crowley Exploring African American Quilts

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

EAT FREE FOOD SAMPLES LINC Up Soul Food Cafe Southern Fish Fry TaDOW! BBQ

THIS EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 111 LIBRARY STREET NE 616.988.5400 WWW.GRPL.ORG/TASTEOFSOUL This event is sponsored by the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation. Consider a gift today: 616.988.5399 or www.grplfoundation.org.

52 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Restaurant listings arranged by region

Grand Rapids 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. Bar Divani 15 Ionia Ave. SW. 616-774-WINE. ECLECTIC. Bar Divani offers a sophisticated environment, with the chefs use local ingredients in their creations. Taste the homegrown flavor in the Prosciutto Flatbread, the Linguine Alfredo or the Plum Salmon. By pairing with Dancing Goats Creamery, Otto’s Chicken, S&S Lamb, Ingraberg Farms, Mrs. Dog’s and Madcap, Bar Divani serves extraordinary tastes. But, what would a night out be without a few drinks? The bar serves more than 300 types of liquor, 300 wines and 50 beers to compliment each handcrafted meal. » SERVING: Dinner after 4 p.m. OPEN ON: Everyday but Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Local Cuisine.

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. Casual attire. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days, closes at 2 p.m. GO THERE FOR: Lunch buffet.

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.

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 $7.95. » 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 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. Brewery Vivant 925 Cherry St. SE. 616-719-1604 BREWPUB. Housed in a former funeral chapel, Brewery Vivant crafts Belgianstyle ales with a focus on barrel aging. The brewpub also brings Belgian tradition when it comes to food, featuring French and Belgian-style meals to pair perfectly with the beer. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Burger

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. Chapbook Café 2660 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-942-0595. CAFE. Take a break from browsing the shelves at Schuler Books with a homemade selection of soups, sandwiches and quiches. Soups are prepared in-house daily and served with fresh baked bread to accompany a small-but-elegant sandwich menu. Try a quiche or traditional Italian Panini grilled on fresh ciabatta bread, or for a quick bite, grab a bagel or scone from the dessert case. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days GO THERE FOR: Homemade soups and sandwiches CitySen Lounge 83 Monroe Center St. NW. 616-608-1720 AMERICAN. CitySen Lounge, located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, is a bar with a big-city feel, offering exciting options for lunch, dinner and breakfast on the weekends. The focus is on fresh ingredients and a full bar with local brews, wine and creative cocktails. » SERVING: Weekend Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: Daily happy hour 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. The Cottage Bar 18 Lagrave Ave. SE. 616-454-9088 AMERICAN. The Cottage Bar is the oldest operating restaurant and bar in downtown Grand Rapids. Come in for the Cottage Burger, smothered with green olives, bacon, lettuce, tomato, hickory mayonnaise and Swiss and American cheeses. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays GO THERE FOR: The Cottage Burger.

Cygnus 27 Cornucopia 187 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-776-6425 ECLECTIC. Enjoy 187 skyline Monroeas Ave. 616-774-2000 DELI. A refreshing the youNW. dine atop the Glass Tower. Indulge option for on-the-go, or casual, fare. deli in a variety of globally infusedlighter dishes at Enjoy this AAA options such asrestaurant. homemadeCasual soups,attire; salads, Four-Diamond no Panini jacket sandwiches and freshly brewed gourmet»coffee. required. Private dining also available. SERVING: SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 days.FOR: GO Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE THERE FOR: Sandwiches. 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: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Peanut Curry Noodles.

Fajita Republic Cantina 2183 E. Beltline Ave. 616-272-3047 MEXICAN. A fresh twist on Mexican-inspired cuisine, Fajita Republic uses farm-fresh vegetables, never-frozen meats and limesqueezed margaritas. Fajita entrees are flamed table-side and the owners promise there are no microwaves used at Fajita Republic, ensuring that all meals are made fresh. Additionally, there are 101 tequila varieties, as well as Mexican craft beers, wine and specialty drinks. SERVING Lunch Dinner. OPEN: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fajitas, Tequila

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.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

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

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.

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 an expanded list, be on the lookout for new and improved dining changes on our revamped website, revuewm. com. The listings are not intended to be reviews of West Michigan restaurants, although we will inject some opinions into the listings based on staff experiences and personal preferences. To submit or to correct information in a dining listing, e-mail editor@revuewm.com.

Dining Gilly’s 20 Monroe NW. 616-356-2000 SEAFOOD. Gilly’s may not be the biggest name on the seafood block, but it takes 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. Catch the big game on one of 30 televisions, including a big screen for optimal game viewing. This colorful and casual restaurant not only caters to sports fans, but also features top-notch burgers, pizzas and specialty drinks. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Score Big 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.

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.

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

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.

Green Restaurant 2289 E Beltline Ave. NE Ste. 8, Grand Rapids. 616-4478294 ORGANIC. The first of its kind, at least in this area, Green Restaurant uses nothing but all-natural and organic ingredients. This includes everything from fruit, vegetables, meat and cheese to juice, ice cream and more. It’s a restaurant where almost anyone with a unique diet could find

54 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

something to eat within their specifications. SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Monday GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches, soups, burgers, smoothies/juice blends.

The Holiday Bar 801 5th St. NW. (616) 456-9058 AMERICAN. Tucked smack dab in the “Heart of the Westside, The Holiday Bar boasts a classic 40-foot Horseshoe bar, along with cheap eats and drinks, both served until 2 a.m., with specials happening daily. The Holiday Bar has a full menu that features pub fare like chicken strips, pierogis, battered homestyle mushrooms and more. It’s a great place to watch the game, listen to music or just hang out with friends. » SERVING Lunch Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Cheap eats and drinks. Harmony Brewing Company 1551 Lake Dr. SE (616) 233-0063 BREWPUB. Harmony features 12 craft-brewed beers in addition to signature root beer for the kiddos. Named one of the top-five brewpub menus in West Michigan by yours truly, Harmony’s ultimate deal is a take-out combo that features one of its 10” gourmet wood-fired pizzas and a growler of beer for $20, as well as a $5 cheese and $6 pepperoni pizza deal every Tuesday. 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.

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. Marie Catrib’s 1001 Lake Dr. 616-454-4020 ECLECTIC. The East Hills eatery makes everything 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.

Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday GO THERE FOR: Wine and food pairings, charcuterie, happy hour. Rinaldi Pizza and Sub Shop 966 E. Fulton St. 616-458-3737 ITALIAN. The tiny pizza shop at the corner of Fulton and Diamond is publisher Brian Edwards’ favorite spot to stop for a large slice after a late night at the office. “It’s got the four C’s of pizza going for it: chewy, cheesy, crusty and cheap — with a perfect balance of sauce and cheese,” Edwards says. Fold it over, New York-style, he recommends. » SERVING: Lunch, Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

One Trick Pony 136 E. Fulton. 616-235-7669 AMERICAN. Connected to The Cottage Bar, One Trick Pony offers an eclectic American menu that ranges from salads, fish, pizza, homemade soups and more. Pair the food with live music, which OTP features weekly. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Eclectic pizzas.

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.

Pearl Street Grille 310 Pearl St NW. 616-235-1342 AMERICAN. Dine in a relaxing environment where kids eat free and the chef uses local vendors and suppliers. Conveniently located in downtown Grand Rapids, Pearl Street Grill offers nightly happy hour specials that include signature cocktails and Michigan beer, as well as a $10 burger and beer special, $5 pizzas and more. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Late night specials.

Rush Creek Bistro 624 Port Sheldon St. SW, Grandville 616-457-1100 AMERICAN. Rush Creek Bistro prides itself on having something for everyone. Although the atmosphere is casual, Rush Creek offers a variety of quality options that won’t leave you unsatisfied. From pizza to steak, you’ll find what you’re looking for at a fair price. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The wet burrito.

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.

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 2% 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.

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 (weekends) Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days; 11 a.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. weekends. GO THERE FOR: Crepes. Reds on the River 8 E Bridge St #100, Rockford. 616-863-8181 AMERICAN. Relaxed ambiance, great food and a view of the river equate to an enjoyable time out. With quality food and fresh ingredients you’re sure to find a meal that tickles your fancy. Staff is trained to help you should you encounter unfamiliar territory. » SERVING: Lunch, Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days GO THERE FOR: Red’s Steak Burger Reserve Wine & Food 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: Lunch,

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. 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. The Score 5301 Northland Dr. NE. 616-301-0600 SPORTS BAR. The Score is the perfect combination for beer and sports lovers. More than 70 TVs carry all major sports packages and there are 128 beers on tap, the most on tap in the state. During the summer months, enjoy live entertainment seven days a week, outdoor dining (complete with real palm trees) and volleyball tournaments. The menu ranges from burgers to pizzas and wings tossed in one of The Score’s 16 sauces. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner .OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Lots of beer options.

SchulerBooks&Music 32 years as your local, independent bookstore! February Events

Made in Germany • Tradition seit 1774

SchulerBooks&Music 32 years as your local, independent bookstore! 7

6pm

4pm

Heritage Theatre Group performance showcase

Valentine’s Day is not just for lovers - though you and your sweetheart are more than welcome! The Heritage Theatre Showcase will feature alumni performing sonnets and songs, monologues and quips.

Opera Talk with Opera Grand Rapids’ Maestro Robert Lyall

February Events

Join Opera Grand Rapids’ Maestro Robert Lyall in the casual comfort of the Schuler Studio for a reception and in-depth look at Noah’s Flood, a charming, interactive celebration of youth, community and opera.

Author talk and booksigning with Patrick 24 7 Heritage Theatre Group performance showcase

for his new book, Grand Rapids Beer: 7pm Evans An Intoxicating History of -River Brewing. Day is not just for lovers thoughCity you and your sweetheart 6pm Valentine’s

1411 Robinson Road Grand Rapids, MI (616) 451-4732 Repairs Available

Learn about operations, history and moreShowcase with veteran are more thanlocal welcome! The Heritage Theatre will hophead feature Patrickperforming Evans and sonnets enjoy theand richsongs, heritage of Grand Rapids beer. alumni monologues and quips.

Author talk and booksigning with Michaela Lynn,

for herTalk newwith LGBT romance set in Grand Opera Grandnovel Rapids’ 7pm Opera

Rapids, Michigan, Jagged Little Scar. Robert Lyall 4pm Maestro Micheala Lynn plays out a love story you won’t forget! Will the raw

Stay True

Join Opera Grand Maestro Robert Lyall the casual comfort of scars of two girls’Rapids’ past destroy their chance at ainfuture? the Schuler Studio for a reception and in-depth look at Noah’s Flood, a interactive celebration of youth, community and opera. Let charming, SchulerBooks

Help you build the Author talk and booksigning with Patrick 24 Evans for hisbook perfect bouquet new book, Grand Beer: 7pm An Intoxicating History of RiverRapids City Brewing.

Learn about local operations, history and more with veteran hophead Patrick Evans and enjoy the rich heritage of Grand Rapids beer.

Author talk and booksigning with Michaela Lynn, 7pm for her new LGBT romance novel set in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Jagged Little Scar. Micheala Lynn plays out a love story you won’t forget! Will the raw scars of two girls’ past destroy their chance at a future?

SchulerBooks.com

2660 28th Street SE • (616) 942-2561 Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Speak EZ Lounge 600 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-458-3125 ECLECTIC. While this lounge may be modeled after the year 1933, its food is not. Speak EZ Lounge offers a variety of food for all to enjoy whether you’re omnivore, vegan or gluten free. Come in for a bite of Rustic Sage Risotto that goes perfectly with one of the lounges signature drinks. » SERVING: Breakfast

For a complete list of events visit www.SchulerBooks.com. Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: The diverse menu 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 and other classic beers out of a mason jar? » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Vegetarian and vegan bar food. Terra GR 1429 Lake Dr. 616-301-0998 AMERICAN. Terra boasts fresh, healthy ingredients in all of its menu items. The restaurant doesn’t feature one menu, either. It offers a Saturday and Sunday brunch menu, as well as menus for lunch,

dinner, dessert, beverages, wine, happy hour and kids. The food is inspired by the seasons and ingredients come straight from one of Michigan’s many farms. » SERVING: Brunch Lunch Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh foods with ingredients from regional growers. Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill 760 Butterworth St. SW. 616-272-3910 AMERICANA. You might walk into Tip Top for the cheap happy hour specials or one of the many rockabilly acts. But get comfortable with one of the venue’s signature menu items. Get classic with a sandwich or burger, but we recommend immersing yourself fully in GR’s west side and ordering Tip Top’s Polish Plate. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Dinner, drinks and a show.

Find us online! Revue on Facebook: facebook.com/ REVUEWM On Twitter: @RevueWM

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

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.

All events are subject to change.

taste this

by Alexandra Kadlec

Eat Your Veggies:

Where You Least Expect Them Don’t let the hot pink hue of the Beet Margarita at Terra GR (1429 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids) fool you into thinking this is a gals-only cocktail. With an unbeatable flavor and some serious kick, this drink — made with sauza blanco tequila, cointreau, pickled beet juice and hand-pressed lemon and lime juice — appeals to all tastes. You can also make it a little or a lot spicier with Terra’s house-infused jalapeno tequila. (Just a splash is enough to note the difference.) If you prefer something herbal and refreshing, the Basil and Cuke Smash at Food Dance (401 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo) is for you. It’s a delicious combo of New Holland Brewery’s Knickerbocker Gin, cocchi, yellow chartreuse, lemon juice, muddled cucumber and fresh basil. Rockwell Republic (45 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids) serves up an intriguing Cucumber Mojito made with melon vodka, fresh cucumber essence and lime.

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

Furniture City Creamery (958 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids) switches up its sweets menu daily, so check out their Facebook page before heading to the store. Or maybe you prefer to be surprised and gratified by the tantalizing flavors you’ll encounter. For ice cream enthusiasts, they’ve got the classics (Mint Chocolate Chip), the seasonally festive (Egg Nog) and the more adventuresome (Mojito) covered. And then there are flavors you’ve probably never encountered, like the exotic Avocado Lime. You can also enjoy this rich, creamy and satisfying ingredient (technically a fruit) in the Vegan Avocado Toasted Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Beet Margarita at Terra GR

ou may be an adult, but you’re never too old to take Mom’s advice, especially when it comes to eating right. Getting your daily quota of greens (and reds, yellows, oranges and beyond) doesn’t have to feel like a chore. In fact, we’ve found some tasty loopholes for you. Make the prospect of eating your veggies a whole lot more exciting with these unconventional drinks and desserts.

56 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

The perfect ending to a plate of seafood at Sushiya (242 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo)? Your choice of Red Bean or Ginger ice cream. Don’t worry, the former is still sweet and satisfying. And the ginger root has numerous health benefits—reducing nausea and inflammation and strengthening immunity, to name just a few—so you can consider this dessert a proactive approach to maintaining your health. Hey, a superfood chockfull of Vitamin A can’t be discounted — even when it’s consumed in the form of a moist, chewy, frosted indulgence. Save room for the Carrot Cake, stuffed with pecans and covered in warm cream cheese frosting, at City Vu Bistro (61 East 7th St., Holland). And as long as we’re cheating, we’re going to also recommend the Morning Glory muffin

8 Rotating Taps. One Month. TWO Locations.

Shortest Month. Short’s Beer. Sun. Feb. 1st - Sat. Feb. 28th

Try the beers. Get excited. This is happening. New beers every week.

You’ll have to wait just a bit longer for Slow’s Bar-B-Q, which is slated to come to the Downtown Market (435 Ionia Ave. SW) this spring — signaling the market’s first restaurant, and Slow’s first location outside of Detroit. Established in 2005, Slow’s has been keeping its customers happy and stuffed by giving them plenty of gourmet options, from sandwiches to sauces to sides. In addition to a la carte barbeque offerings like beef brisket, pulled pork, smoked garlic pork sausage and more, they also serve Southern classics like Creole-style jambalaya and blackened catfish. The way to go here is by starting slow and sharing a lot. Appetizers like chili cheese fries and BBQ wings will tempt, but save room for Slow’s mouthwatering sides, from fluffy Zingerman’s cornbread to coleslaw and sweet potato mash. Slow’s promises to be a place you can linger awhile, sampling delectable dishes and complementing each dish with a brew from their extensive tap list featuring numerous Michigan craft beers. While comfort food is not typically thought of as special-diet sensitive, gluten-free folk need not worry — Slow’s even has a menu just for you. Price range: $3-$28.

(269) 492.0100 CCTapHouse.com 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall downtown KALAMAZOO

(269) 492.3500 TapHousePortage.com 3251 w. Centre ave. PORTAGE

t ee

omfort food lovers, great news — Grand Rapids’ thriving culinary scene continues to expand with the addition of two new barbeque restaurants this year. Two Scotts, run by Scott Hartmann and Scott Luecht, set up shop on the west side (536 Leonard St. NW). With an emphasis on simple and local, and years of perfecting a “Michigan” style of barbecue behind them, the two Scotts focus on doing a few things very well. The menu features a variety of meats, sourced from Sobie Meats in Walker, Mich., which are smoked, brined and seasoned on-site. You can choose from pulled pork, pulled chicken, sliced brisket and burnt ends, sausages and St. Louisstyle spareribs, served in sandwiches or a la carte. Traditional sides like cornbread and potato salad are offered alongside more unique comfort food fare like pimiento mac and cheese. Although the two Scotts advocate a “dry” barbecue approach, customers have the option of five sauces to complement their meats — three staples (South Carolina Mustard, House and Hot/ Spicy) and two that will be changed out frequently. No alcohol here, but in the spirit of keeping things local, you can wash your hearty meal down with Schmohz Root Beer (or order a classic root beer float for dessert). Prices range: $2-$14.

New Barbecue Joints in Town

Cen

Two Scotts

PHOTO: Bryan Esler

SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH SHORT’S TAKEOVER MONTH re str AG

GRAND OPENING

You can also add some kick to your cocktail at Rockwell|Republic (45 S Division Ave. SE, Grand Rapids). Try the Firecracker, a specialty drink made with house-infused jalapeno tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, muddled strawberries and jalapeno. Or sweeten this chili pepper’s sass at Moo-ville Creamery (5875 South M-66, Nashville). They’ve got a vanilla ice cream filled with the hot stuff!

And lastly, perhaps the most unusual and intriguing treat we came across in the veggie dessert category — the Black Bean Fudge Popsicles made in-house at Nourish Organic Market & Deli (634 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids). The all-organic ingredient list promises a sweet enough taste; get ready for a creamy blend of coconut milk, raw coconut sugar, Michigan black beans, ground vanilla beans and cocoa powder. n

50% OFF ONE

FEB 16 - 20

ENTREE WITH THIS AD 11- 1 PM

820 MICHIGAN ST. NE GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 | 616-454-0444 | WWW.ERBTHAI.COM Limit 1 coupon per customer. Does not apply to seafood options. Cannot be combined with any other discount or offer. Void if copied or where prohibited. Only valid at Erb Thai Xpress.

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

LIMITED TIME OFFER

at Wealthy Street Bakery (610 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids), made with carrots, raisins and nuts — and slightly healthier sans frosting.

/// Beer

by Joe Boomgaard, Revue Beer Czar

Author details Beer City’s long history of craft brewing Author Patrick Evans at The Mitten Brewing Company

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

h i le m o st p e o p le li k e ly as s o c iate t h e t i tl e o f “ B e e r C i t y ” to present-day Grand Rapids, it turns out the city has quite a long history with craft brewing. That was one of the main takeaways author Patrick Evans had in researching his new book, Grand Rapids Beer: An Intoxicating History of River City Brewing, which was published Jan. 26 by The History Press. “We consider ourselves to be Beer City now, but back then it really, really was,” said Evans, an East Grand Rapids native who splits his time as a reporter for the Grand Rapids Business Journal and at The Mitten Brewing Company, where he’s the director of content and a sales representative. “I think (craft beer is) proving more and more that it’s a viable economy currently, but it was back then.” As an example, he points to the original iteration of Grand Rapids Brewing Co., which formed in 1892 with the merger of six local breweries and at its peak brewed about 250,000 barrels of beer, mostly traditional German styles. Compare that to Founders Brewing Company, which brewed a little more than 200,000 barrels in 2014. “Grand Rapids Brewing Company was bigger than Founders is, which is incredible,” Evans said. “Everybody thinks Founders is a giant thing — and it is — but to know that we had something in the history of Grand Rapids that was bigger than that is incredible.” Just as interesting, he said, were the two dozen or so sizable breweries that “came and went” throughout the city’s history, particularly in the period prior to 1920 and the Prohibition Era. “Most of them were doing 5,000-plus barrels a year. At The Mitten, we did 600 barrels last year,” he said. “It’s amazing the size of these operations when the city wasn’t as big. It’s crazy.” Evans also drew a parallel between one of the city’s first brewers, Christoph Kusterer, and brewing magnate Adolphus Busch. Both men were keen businessmen who invested heavily in ancillary industries that ultimately helped grow their companies. However, Kusterer died in his 50s in a freak ferry accident on Lake Michigan, leaving Evans wondering what he could have achieved had he lived longer. Kusterer’s sons took over the business that eventually became Grand Rapids Brewing.

58 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

“You read in the histories and they all speak of him at a very high level. He was one of the most prominent business dudes in Grand Rapids,” he said. “Who knows, maybe there could have been an Anheuser-Busch here.” In Grand Rapids Beer, Evans details the history of brewing and breweries from the mid-1800s through the present day in the tri-cities area including Grand Rapids, Holland and Muskegon. The publishing company approached Evans to write the book in December 2013. While he had a good handle on the present-day brewing scene in Grand Rapids having covered the industry as a reporter and observing its growth firsthand, he found himself conducting historical research at the Grand Rapids Public “We consider Library and the Grand Rapids Public Museum ourselves to over an eight-month period. be Beer City Luckily, much of the groundwork had been now, but back laid with the museum’s “Thank You, BEER!” exhibition that debuted in 2012, he said. then it really, “(The exhibition) showed everybody that really was.” there was a bit of a brewing history here. But digging through it, it’s incredible the history we had,” Evans said. Moreover, it’s a history that continues to evolve, as Evans found out after he sent the book to the publisher in August. Between the time the text was approved and when the book was released in January, for example, Founders Brewing Co. announced it sold a 30-percent stake of the company to a Spanish firm, Mahou San Miguel, to help support its aggressive expansion plans to reach 600,000 barrels of production within a few years. “What’s funny is the current stuff is basically out-of-date because the industry is growing so fast,” he said. With his first book under his belt, Evans said he hopes to continue working on publishing projects. He’s currently working on a project with former Michigan State University football player and classmate TJ Duckett. “(The Grand Rapids Beer book) was a fun project to work on,” Evans said. “It … made me fall further in love with Grand Rapids, and beer is a large reason why I love Grand Rapids in the first place.” n

Grand Rapids Beer: An Intoxicating History of River City Brewing Publisher: The History Press, American

Palate Series (Jan. 26, 2015) Cost: $19.99, on sale at Schuler Books,

Barnes & Noble and online retailers Author Patrick Evans will give a talk and sign copies of Grand Rapids Beer starting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 24 at Schuler Books, 2660 28th St. SE, in Grand Rapids. See schulerbooks.com for more details.

FRI. 2/20 Bourbon Barrel Aged Peanut Butter Porter

ap On T

Now

The B.O.B. / 20 Monroe Ave NW / Downtown GR 616.356.2000 / www.thebobsbrewery.com / #BOBsBrewery

10 AWARD WINNING CRAFT BREWS ON TAP Bottles, growlers and kegs available! 105 EAST STATE ST. • (269) 945-4400 • WALLDORFFBREWPUB.COM

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

LIMITED RELEASE

Dining 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 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.

Lakeshore 8th Street Grille 20 W. 8th St., Holland. 616-392-5888 AMERICAN. This eclectic grille offers a mix of draft and bottled craft beers and a variety of pub classics and new, American beerinspired dishes. Happy hour includes half-off appetizers and $1 off drafts. » SERVING: Lunch, Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: 28 taps of craft beer. 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.

Schedule Dining Sights | Sounds | Scene

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. CityVu Bistro 61 E 7th Street, Holland. 616-796-2114 AMERICAN. A distinctive rooftop dining experience in downtown Holland with fresh gourmet flatbreads and an array of seasonal entrees are in. The contemporary-yet-casual atmosphere, full bar and unique menus make it the ideal spot for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days GO THERE FOR: flatbreads 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

60 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

days. GO THERE FOR: Gorgonzola Pork Chop, Greek Salad with Grandma Gigi’s Dressing (Edwards). 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 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. 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. 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. Phil’s Bar & Grille 215 Butler St., Saugatuck. 269-857-1555 AMERICAN. This cozy (some would say “small”) bar and grille in downtown Saugatuck is one of those unassuming spots you might easily overlook, though locals in Saugatuck will tell you about their love affair with Phil’s. Eclectic menu is all over the place, but in a good way, and the staff is super-friendly. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Portabella Mushroom Fries. Piper Restaurant 2225 South Shore Drive, Holland. 616-335-5866 AMERICAN. Upscale-but-casual spot located on Lake Macatawa, offering great views from virtually every table. Menu includes tastefully prepared items like Almond Crusted Walleye and Grilled Pork Loin, as well as wood-fired pizzas. Reservations are welcomed. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Almond Crusted Walleye. 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.

Beer Briefs n Two returning events, Cool Brews. Hot Eats. and Grand Rapids Beer Week 2015, will kick off a long list of beer-related events for February. Experience Grand Rapids’ Cool Brews. Hot Eats. returns from Feb. 16-28. The events take place at more than 50 local restaurants and breweries and feature craft beer-food pairings, including using local beer as an ingredient in the dishes. Meanwhile, Grand Rapids Beer Week runs simultaneously and will showcase the latest beers and innovations from the city’s growing list of craft breweries. n If you haven’t yet reserved your tickets for the Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival, you’re in luck. Tickets are still available for the new Friday session that runs from 3-7 p.m. Feb. 27 at Fifth Third Ballpark. Saturday’s event sold out. Cost is $45 for a ticket, which includes 15 tokens. Visit mibeer.com to buy tickets. The festival will feature more than 800 craft beers from more than 90 Michigan breweries, as well as local music, ice sculpture and carving demonstrations, fire pits and food. n Those lucky enough to score tickets for the Saturday session of the Winter Beer Festival may want to ease into an afternoon of drinking Michigan craft beer by attending the Brewer’s Big Breakfast at Brewery Vivant. It’s being described as an “epic beer breakfast to fill the tank” and runs from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Feb. 28 at the pub, located at 925 Cherry Street SE in Grand Rapids. Don’t miss beermosas and bacon. For more information, visit breweryvivant.com.

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. 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.

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. »

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 23 years as one of the region’s best dining experiences, including a 3-star rating in the 2010 Forbes Travel Guide. The Tuscaninspired 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. Food Dance is committed to building a thriving and sustainable local food system, supporting artisans who practice craft food processes. It’s about the connection with people and places the food comes from. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, private dining space, catering and delivery, while an on-site market offers humanely raised meats, artisan cheeses, fresh bread and pastries. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 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. Old Dog Tavern 402 East Kalamazoo Avenue, Kalamazoo. 269-381-5677 AMERICAN. The food at Old Dog Tavern is just about as eclectic as the live entertainment the establishment offers all week long. Of course, there are the trusted and true burgers and pizzas, but Old Dog also offers U.P.-approved pastys, an open face sandwich, curried pumpkin hummus and a brownie sundae inspired by Atwater Brewing’s Vanilla Java Porter. The menu has so much on it that it might even bring some harmony between picky and adventurous eaters. » SERVING: Brunch Lunch Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The eclectic menu options.

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. Martell’s 3501 Greenleaf Blvd., Kalamazoo. 269-375-2105 AMERICAN. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood that overlooks Willow Lake, Martell’s offers casual ambiance and an expansive menu with steaks, prime rib and other comfort food entrées like Italian style meatloaf and pork shank. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days (Sundaysdinner only) GO THERE FOR: Quiet casual ambiance. 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

To submit or to correct information in a dining listing, e-mail editor@ revuewm.com.

Only $139 per night + $20 dining gift card Fridays and Saturdays from now until April 18th Offer only applicable at CityFlatsHotel - Holland Some blackout dates apply—visit cityflatshotel.com for more info!

61 East 7th Street / Downtown Holland / 616.796.2100 / cityflatshotel.com

Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: 7 days a week.

Scene | Sounds | Sights Dining Schedule

Note Worthy Dining.

Downtown Grand Rapids Inside Holiday Inn 310 Pearl St. NW (616) 235-1342 pearlstreetgrill.com REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

March 6

March 19

drive-by truckers

tabsamantha benoit fish, mike Zito, with

wsG out of favor boys

March 15

Gordon liGhtfoot

Coming Soon! Saturday, Feb. 7 The Big E

Friday, Feb. 13

Gregg Allman

Thursday, March 19

Drive-By Truckers

Jason Isbell wsg Damien Jurado

Saturday, March 28

Saturday, Feb. 14

11am Pre-Judge & 6pm Final

1964 The Tribute

Friday, March 6

Tab Benoit, Samantha Fish, Mike Zito, wsg Out of Favor Boys

Saturday, March 14

The Rock Show & Poisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Crue

Sunday, March 15 Gordon Lightfoot

62 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Tuesday, March 17

Kalamazoo Body Building Championship

Thursday, April 9 Straight No Chaser

Saturday, April 11

Primus & The Chocolate Factory

Thursday, April 23

Neutral Milk Hotel wsg: Circulatory System

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

sunday

2.01

Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GR Civic Theatre The Mousetrap GR Public Museum Real Pirates Kalamazoo Civic Theatre The Who’s Tommy KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Kirby Grill Rich Burkholder Mangiamo! Live Accordion MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes

Muskegon Museum of Art Branching Out, The Essential Elijah Pierce, Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern 7th Son Blues Jam UICA Buying Friends, Looking Forward, Oscar Shorts 15 York Arena The University Theatre presents The Whale

monday

2.02

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Big Screen Classics: Groundhog Day Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan

GR Public Museum Real Pirates GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington Knickerbocker Theatre Winter Film Series MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes O’Toole’s Open Mic Night Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work San Chez Bistro Wild Game Dinner

tuesday

2.03

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Potterday: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire

Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan, The Art of Abstract Wine Tasting GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GRPL - West Leonard One Crazy Family Feud: 1968 Revisited GR Public Museum Real Pirates GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda KIA ARTbreak : Second Sight/ Insight II with curator Elaine Seaman, How to Return?, Redefining the Multiple, Second Sight/Insight II, Wired and Wrapped Kent District Library: Kentwood (Richard L. Root) branch Beer Sampling with the Great American Brew Trail’s Amy Sherman Knickerbocker Theatre Winter Film Series LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Branching Out, The Essential Elijah Pierce, Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night With Branden Mann The Park Theatre Open Mic Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work Rocky’s Open Mic with Sam Kenny

Shakespeare’s Lower Level Country Line Dancing by Effortless Dance UICA Buying Friends, Looking Forward, Oscar Shorts 15 Wealthy Theatre Meanwhile Movie: Groundhog Day

wednesday

2.04

Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeltaPlex Arena GR Drive vs. Idaho Stampede Foundry Hall Song Swap Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Knickerbocker Theatre Winter Film Series LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance

MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Branching Out, The Essential Elijah Pierce, Japanese Warriors Old Dog Tavern Ladies Night Dance Party Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman UICA Buying Friends, Looking Forward, Oscar Shorts 15

thursday

2.05

Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Chicago Afrobeat Project feat. Medicinal Groove Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Czar’s 505 Steve Iott and Robert Jenkins DeVos Place Michigan International Auto Show Dr. Grins Ian Bagg Founders Brewing Co. The Main Squeeze Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Library Reading the Great Lakes GR Public Museum Real Pirates

Best Bet: Local When you think about it, 16 really isn’t that sweet. Sure, you

PHOTO: Katy Batdorff

Dante Cope at The Jammies REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

WYCE Presents can drive, but there is all this pressure to fit in, mom and dad won’t The Jammies 16 let you borrow the car and that guy from art class asked someone else The Intersection, to the winter dance. Just us? OK. Well, back to the point we’re trying Grand Rapids to make. Being 16 is tough. But if you’ve been celebrating the local Feb. 13, 5:30–11 p.m. music scene via awesome concert/awards show for the past 16 years, Free! grcmc.org/ that’s another story. The WYCE Jammies celebrates its 16th year on radio, (616) 742-9923 Feb. 13 and our local music scene is better for it. Throughout the five-and-a-half-hour night, there will be performances, awards and pajamas. Yeah, you heard right. Those things you sleep in. This isn’t the Oscars, you know. The Jammies takes local music seriously, not life. Speaking of local musicians, there will be performances from more than 20 acts on two stages. That’s a lot of music. Performers include The Verve Pipe, Mustard Plug, Ghost Heart, Valentiger, The Muteflutes and more. And if five and a half hours of celebrating isn’t enough, Seth Bernard is hosting an after party starting at 11:30 p.m. and featuring Lindsay Lou and the Flatbellys, Mark Lavengood and more. Those who attend in their PJs or donate $10 to WYCE will get a free album from WYCE’s collection. Reported by Lindsay Patton-Carson

Schedule GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection Led Zeppelin 2 KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Knickerbocker Theatre Winter Film Series LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance Mangiamo! Wine School MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Branching Out, The Essential

Elijah Pierce, Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Jason Singer The Pyramid Scheme Elliott Brood Crow Moses Valentiger Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rockford Brewing Company Andy Frisinger Rocky’s Kindstone and The Bad Influences Shakespeare’s Lower Level Comedy Open Mic Hosted by MC Bob Spectrum Theater Actors’ Theatre Presents Water By The Spoonful Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Reverend Raven and the Chain Smokin’ Alter Boys

UICA Buying Friends, Looking Forward, Oscar Shorts 15, Watermark

friday

2.06

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Boogie Nights Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Pleasant Drive feat. Big Sherb and Earphorik Billy’s Hot Sauce Express Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian

Best Bet: Indie

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Phox So, what exactly is “Phox,” anyway? A new Phox workout craze? A Hunger Games character? One of Covenant Fine Arts Center, the forgotten Palin children? No — in this case, the Calvin College, Grand Phox in question is one of the most buzzed-about Rapids indie pop bands of the new year. Hailing from Feb. 21, 8 p.m. ultra-hip Madison, Wisconsin, Phox released its $15, calvin.edu/sao, (616) 526-6282 eponymous debut album mid-2014, to massive critical acclaim. While often listed under the shopworn alternative-folk label, Phox has already set itself apart from the competition, in no small part by winning prestigious slots on the SXSW and Lollapalooza lineups. And let’s not forget opening gigs for The Lumineers and Blitzen Trapper: a definite stamped seal of approval from the indie elite. After Saturday’s Calvin College show, it’s unlikely anyone in the house will be uncomfortable with shouting “Phox Rocks!” Or, you know, “Rox,” if you really want to get down and dirty with it. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

64 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Czar’s 505 Bob Marley’s Birthday Bash DeVos Place Michigan International Auto Show Dog Story Theater Theatre 616(Southside) Downtown St. Joseph 11th Annual Magical Ice Fest Dr. Grins Ian Bagg Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Flanagan’s Irish Pub Luke D Duo Foundry Hall Tunebugs Frauenthal Theatre West Michigan Symphony presents Words and Music Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan Exhibit Gallery Uptown Winter Art Festival Opening Reception Grand Haven State Park Grand Haven State Park - 2015 Run for the Stadium GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery ‘Veracity Distortion Reduction: Recent Works by Ed Wong-Ligda’ Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection Heavyweights 2015; Sturgill Simpson wsg Anderson East Kalamazoo Civic Theatre The Who’s Tommy KIA Art Hop: Second Sight/Insight II: Poets respond to the Collection, Redefining the Multiple, How to Return?, Wired and Wrapped Knickerbocker Theatre Winter Film Series Little River Casino Resort Tesla Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU GVSU Opera Theatre presents Company LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Miller Auditorium Ballroom with a Twist The Music Factory Monument 6 Top Shelf Whiskey Muskegon Museum of Art Branching Out, The Essential Elijah Pierce, Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern The Real Fantastics The Park Theatre Mika’s Lunch Annual Fling Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet presents Swan Lake

Pietro’s Italian Restaurant Of Sound Mind and Dead Body The Pyramid Scheme Ago Ro Spit SuperDre Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman River City Saloon Litt Up The Riviera Theatre Super Happy Funtime Burlesque Rockford Brewing Company The Moonrays Rocky’s Control: With DJ Colin Clive Shakespeare’s Lower Level Local H, Kurt Loder and The MTV News Spectrum Theater Actors’ Theatre Presents Water By The Spoonful Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Murder Party, The Lippies, Bong Mountain & North Park University Theatre The University Theatre presents The Whale UICA Buying Friends, Looking Forward, Oscar Shorts 15 Whiskey River Saloon Daddy’z Breakdown

saturday

2.07

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Potterday: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Billy’s Bob Marley’s Birthday Bash Bobarino’s Dueling Pianos with Dennie Middleton and Friends Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light The Conscious Collective The Conscious Collective Consignment One Year Anniversary Event Czar’s 505 Jared Knox DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents ‘rePLAY: Symphony of Heroes’ DeVos Place Michigan International Auto Show Dog Story Theater Theatre 616(Southside) Downtown St. Joseph 11th Annual Magical Ice Fest Dr. Grins Ian Bagg Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike First Baptist Church All Ears Theatre Presents The Cowfoot Stand Down Flanagan’s Irish Pub Jake Stevens Duo Founders Brewing Co. Founders Firkin Freezeout

Frederik Meijer Gardens Silly Ceramics, Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates, Ethnic Heritage Festival GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection GreenSky Bluegrass Kalamazoo Civic Theatre The Who’s Tommy Kalamazoo State Theatre The Big E KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Knickerbocker Theatre Winter Film Series The Livery Third Coast Kings Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU GVSU Opera Theatre presents Company LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance Mangia Mangia Tad Robinson & Jim Alfredson MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Miller Auditorium Frozen SingAlong Movie The Music Factory Winter Frost Music Festival feat. The Moxies Muskegon Museum of Art Branching Out, The Essential Elijah Pierce, Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern BenJammin & Analisa, Duffield Caron Project, Two Hand Touch The Park Theatre Fleetwood Mix Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet presents Swan Lake The Pyramid Scheme Aesop Rock, Rob Sonic, Homeboy Sandman River City Saloon Litt Up Rocky’s The Love Hate, I’d of Christ and American Zombie Inquisition Saugatuck Brewing Big Boss Blues Trio Schuler Books 28th Street Heritage Theatre Group Performance Showcase Seven Steps Up Glen Philips (of Toad the Wet Sprocket) SpeakEZ Lounge 3rd Anniversary Party with Common Shiner Spectrum Theater Actors’ Theatre Presents Water By The Spoonful University Theatre The University Theatre presents The Whale UICA Buying Friends, Looking Forward, Oscar Shorts 15 Wings Stadium Wine Not? Winter Wine Festival

sunday

2.08

monday

2.09

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Lolita Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Super Happy Funtime Burlesque Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light

tuesday

2.10

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Potterday: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents ‘I Love Lucy’ Live on Stage Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda KIA ARTbreak Film: Kehinde Wiley An Economy of Grace, How to Return?, Redefining the Multiple, Second Sight/Insight II, Wired and Wrapped LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night With Branden Mann Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rocky’s Open Mic with Sam Kenny Shakespeare’s Lower Level Country Line Dancing UICA Buying Friends, Oscar Shorts 15

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Action Pack: Moulin Rouge Sing-Along Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents ‘I Love Lucy’ Live on Stage Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan Gipper’s Bar & Restaraunt Party Sing Along With Bimini Lite GR Public Library Music in the Stacks: Vox Vidorra, The New Black: Ethnicity in the Arts GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance Mangiamo! Wine Down Wednesday MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Seth Bernard, Gregory Stovetop Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman UICA Buying Friends, Oscar Shorts 15

Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeVos Performance Hall Broadway GR Presents ‘I Love Lucy’ Live on Stage Dr. Grins Michael Kosta Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Founders Brewing Co. Forest & The Evergreens, Mo Lowda & The Humble Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood Opening, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection Railroad Earth wsg Crow Moses KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Special Presentation : George N’Namdi on Community and Collecting, Wired and Wrapped Knickerbocker Theatre Great Performance Series: Broadway’s Next Hit Musical LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance Mangiamo! Wine School Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Thunderwude The Pyramid Scheme Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish Fathom 19 Joe Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rockford Brewing Company Hazy Past Shakespeare’s Lower Level Bike Tuff, The Penske File, The Short Life, Freight Bandits UICA Buying Friends, Oscar Shorts 15

thursday

friday

Van Andel Arena Luke Byran, Randy Houser, Dustin Lynch Wealthy Theatre Meanwhile Movie: Say Anything

wednesday

2.11

2.12

Alamo Drafthouse Boogie Nights Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian

2.13

Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Bell’s Eccentric Cafe The Crane Wives wsg Henhouse Prowlers, Book Signing: John Mallett author

Nickelback

Best Bet: Why? Look, we here at Revue like to think we know our West Michigan readership pretty damn well at this point. Is anyone out there actually wetting their pants at the prospect of seeing Nickelback live? Yeah, didn’t think so. Fortunately, if you happen to be attending this concert (either through coercion by your uncool cousin or out of some misaligned “I think I liked that one song?” curiosity), Revue has devised Nickelback wsg The Pretty Reckless a drinking game on your behalf, to help fend off Van Andel Arena, boredom and repetitive Grand Rapids Feb. 24, 8 p.m., $25, power chords. It goes like $40, $60, $80 this: any time you see a vanandelarena.com, guy in the crowd who (616) 742-6600 looks like Henry Rollins after a Ho Ho bender, take a drink. When the atmosphere around you begins to resemble a NASCAR party, take a drink. Baby sips for every pair of rhinestone jeans you see. Sniff (we at least want to get you out of here alive) for every Ed Hardy clothing item your eyes make contact with. Whenever the band plays two or more songs back to back that seem virtually indistinguishable from each other, waterfall until the band switches to a ballad. Trust us, you’ll be hammered before Chad Kroeger even has a chance to namecheck Avril Lavigne. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

of ‘Malt: A Practical Guide from Field to Brewhouse’ Bethlehem Lutheran Church February MAJIC Concert Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Bobarino’s Dueling Pianos with Dennie Middleton and Friends Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Crescendo Academy of Music Crescendo Fiddlers: Fiddle Club

Czar’s 505 Drive Dog Story Theater Gem Theatrics Dr. Grins Michael Kosta Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Flanagan’s Travis Atkinson Foundry Hall Tunebugs Fountain Street Church Opera GR Presents: Noah’s Flood Frauenthal Theatre West Side Soul Surfers

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Lolita Aquinas College Art and Music Center Patrick Maguire Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Kalamazoo Academy of Rock DeVos Place Michigan International Auto Show Downtown St. Joseph 11th Annual Magical Ice Fest Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Fountain Street Church Jazz with a Heart Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GRAM GRAM Sunday Classical Concert Series, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GR Public Museum Real Pirates KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Louis Armstrong Theatre - GVSU GVSU Opera Theatre presents Company Mangiamo! Live Accordion Miller Auditorium Peter vs. The Wolf Muskegon Museum of Art Branching Out, The Essential Elijah Pierce, Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Gator Boys Blue Band, Old Time Jam Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet presents Swan Lake Salt of the Earth Moxieville and Delilah DeWylde Schuler Books 28th Street Opera Talk with Opera GR’ Maestro Robert Lyall Seven Steps Up Charlie Mars Shakespeare’s Lower Level KVBA Blues Fundraiser University Theatre The Whale UICA Buying Friends, Looking Forward, Oscar Shorts 15

Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington Mangiamo! Music In The Lounge MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rocky’s Free Bingo With Prizes

Schedule Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington, Museum After Dark The Intersection WYCE Jammies XVI KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Knickerbocker Theatre Great Performance Series: Broadway’s Next Hit Musical The Livery Miss Tess & The Talkbacks

LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Double-Strung, Hired Hands The Park Theatre Occidental Gypsy Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet presents Swan Lake The Pyramid Scheme The City Is Mine 2: R&B Edition Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman River City Saloon Funkle Jesse Rockford Brewing Company Watching For Foxes

Rocky’s Control: With DJ Colin Clive, The Moonrays Shakespeare’s Lower Level Hung Up Pro Con Pro UICA Buying Friends, Oscar Shorts 15, Portraits by James LaCroix The Union Cabaret & Grille Big Boss Blues Wealthy Theatre Pop Scholars: Improv Comedy

saturday

2.14

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Big Screen Classics: Breakfast at Tiffany’s; Potterday: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Digital Tape Machine & Turbo Suit

Best Bet: Rock Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

If you’re in a band and planning to wear the label “experimental” as part of your genre specifications, you’d better be prepared to bring the goods. And god help you if the goods aren’t as kooky, out-there and mind-blowing as possible. Fortunately, the New York-based outfit Swans (a brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Michael Gira) certainly needs no help on any of these establishment-jostling fronts. Also described as “no wave” — it’s just like new wave but with way less fluorescent in your music videos — Swans first swam up from the disco backlash of early-’80s NYC. After a lengthy hiatus Swans wsg Xylouris White in 1997, the band regrouped in 2010 with a fresh The Pyramid Scheme, Grand Rapids lineup and a renewed electronic snarl, fitting for Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. the new millennium. Head over to The Pyramid $25 in advance, $28 day of, 18+ Scheme and check out these bad-ass birds; we pyramidschemebar.com, (616) hope they won’t be singing their swan song for 272-3758 years to come. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

66 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

Billy’s Danger Damsels Presents A Danger Damsels Valentine’s Day Cabaret Bobarino’s Dueling Pianos with Dennie Middleton and Friends Cannonsburg Ski Area Cardboard Bobsled Derby Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Czar’s 505 Jester DeVos Performance Hall Shen Yun DeVos Place West MI Golf Show Dog Story Theater Gem Theatrics Dr. Grins Michael Kosta Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike FireKeepers Casino Hotel Josh Turner Founders Brewing Co. Lindsay Lou & The Flatbellys, Miss Tess & The Talkbacks Fountain Street Church Opera GR Presents: Noah’s Flood Frauenthal Theatre Second City Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan, What Makes a National Treasure? GRAM Art + Chocolate Tour: Seeing Red, David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GR Public Museum Real Pirates Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection Mega 80’s with DJ Jason Veeder KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped LowellArts! ArtPrize: Second Glance Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Miller Auditorium Gold Company: From Brazil with Love The Music Factory Bruce’s Birthday Smash feat. Elisium Veilside Silvertung Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern BenJammin & Analisa, Branden Mann & The Reprimand The Green Gallows Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet presents Swan Lake Pietro’s Italian Restaurant Of Sound Mind and Dead Body The Pyramid Scheme The O’Gravylake Birthday Variety Show River City Saloon Hey Marco Rocky’s Live Music: Valentine’s Dance Party with Gentlemen At Large Picasso Raptor and DJ Robby Nast

San Chez Bistro Dinner In The Dark: When Not Seeing Is Believing Saugatuck Brewing Valentine’s Evening with the Josh Quinlan Trio Seven Steps Up Mouths of Babes UICA Buying Friends, Oscar Shorts 15, Portraits by James LaCroix

sunday

2.15

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Big Screen Classics: Gone With the Wind Bell’s Eccentric Cafe The Kalamazoo Male Chorus Brewery Vivant Beer and Dessert Pairing Dog Story Theater Gem Theatrics Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Fountain Street Church Opera GR Presents: Noah’s Flood Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga GRAM GRAM Sunday Classical Concert Series, David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GR Public Library Taste of Soul Sunday - 10th Anniversary GR Public Museum Real Pirates The Intersection Badfish – A Tribute To Sublime KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped LaFontsee Galleries Underground Concert Series Mangiamo! Live Accordion Muskegon Museum of Art Japanese Warriors, Illustrations of Amy Young The Park Theatre Terrapin Flyer Peter Martin Wege Theatre GR Ballet presents Swan Lake Salt of the Earth Luke Winslow King UICA Buying Friends, Oscar Shorts 15, Portraits by James LaCroix

monday

2.16

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Big Screen Classics: Breakfast at Tiffany’s Aquinas College Equality Bake Sale Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian

Bobarino’s Monday Night Jazz Series: Tom Hagen Trio with Rick Reuther Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington Mangiamo! Music In The Lounge MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes O’Toole’s Open Mic Night The Pyramid Scheme Luke Winslow-King, Chris Bathgate, Molly Sullivan Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rocky’s Free Bingo With Prizes San Chez Bistro Kids Cook

tuesday

2.17

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Potterday: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Dog Story Theater Bogus Downtown Battle Creek Pub & Grub Crawl Downtown Market Foodie Film Series: Food Chains Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan, Roll Your Own Sushi GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda KIA ARTBreak: Josef Albers’ Homage to the Square: The Science and Art of Color, How to Return?, Redefining the Multiple, Second Sight/Insight II, Wired and Wrapped MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night With Branden Mann

Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rocky’s Open Mic with Sam Kenny Wealthy Theatre Meanwhile Movie: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

wednesday

2.18

thursday

2.19

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Girlie Night: Pretty Woman Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeVos Center GR Boat Show Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike

friday

2.20

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Scythian Billy’s Soul Syndicate Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Bobarino’s Dueling Pianos with Dennie Middleton and Friends Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Cityscape Kris Bowers Trio Dinner and a Show Covenant Fine Arts Center Home Free uKnighted Calvin College Women’s Chorale DeVos Center GR Boat Show DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents ‘New World Symphony’

Dog Story Theater Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Foundry Hall Tunebugs Frauenthal Theatre Muskegon Civic Theatre presents Other Desert Cities Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan, Roll Your Own Sushi GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection Cherub; Kevin Devine and Into It. Over It. KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped LowellArts! West Michigan Regional Art Competition Art Drop-Off Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Moxeyville The Tip Top Ramblers Papa Pete’s Spence The Pyramid Scheme Flint Eastwood, John Cyrus, Maraj Hi-Ker Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman River City Saloon Decades Rockford Brewing Company Channing and Quinn Rocky’s Control: With DJ Colin Clive Seven Steps Up JD Eicher, Charlie Oxford Shakespeare’s Lower Level Arpetrio Genome Great Jam Band Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Laura Rain and the Caesars VFW Flat River Post LowellArts! Players - Cookin’ With Gus

Live Glass Blowing Competitions

regivers

First ever Michigan ca

‘mystic cup’

Patient Solutions 420

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeVos Center GR Boat Show Dog Story Theater Bogus Foundry Hall Song Swap Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan Gipper’s Bar & Restaraunt Party Sing Along With Bimini Lite GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wrapped and Wired Mangiamo! Wine Down Wednesday MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Ladies Night Dance Party Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman UICA Open Projector Night, Portraits by James LaCroix, Wealthy Theatre The Alley Cat

Founders Brewing Co. Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wrapped and Wired LowellArts! West Michigan Regional Art Competition Art Drop-Off Mangiamo! Wine School Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Nashon Holloway The Pyramid Scheme Mike Mains & The Branches, American Wifi, Lights and Caves Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rockford Brewing Company The Large Number 1’s Rocky’s Dumpster Nate and Philip Waugh & Friends Shakespeare’s Lower Level Comedy Open Mic Hosted by MC Bob St. Cecilia Music Center Christian McBride Trio UICA Portraits by James LaCroix, Oscar Shorts 15

saturday

2.21

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema The Breakfast Club: 30th Anniversary Screening; Potterday: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I Billy’s Hip Pocket

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Schedule Dining | Sights | Sounds | Scene

Schedule Bobarino’s Dueling Pianos with Dennie Middleton and Friends Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Covenant Fine Arts Center PHOX Czar’s 505 Top Secret DeVos Place GR Boat Show DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents ‘New World Symphony’ Dog Story Theater Alea Iacta Est, Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Fenn Valley Girls Afternoon Out First Baptist Church All Ears Theatre Presents The Adventures Of Zorro Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Muskegon Civic Theatre presents Other Desert Cities Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection Paper Diamond KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped The Livery Blindspt LowellArts! West Michigan Regional Art Competition Art Drop-Off Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern BenJammin & Analisa Papa Pete’s One Love The Pyramid Scheme Dads Runaway Brother, The Cardboard Swords River City Saloon Decades Rocky’s New World Samurai, Sam Kenny, Joel Knoll and David Martin Saugatuck Brewing The Shaneberger Duo Shakespeare’s Lower Level Crazy ‘80s Party feat. Hairmania Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Somebody’s Darling UICA Almost There, Oscar Shorts 15, Portraits by James LaCroix VFW Flat River Post LowellArts! Players - Cookin’ With Gus Warren Center Blue Water Ramblers

sunday

2.22

DeVos Place GR Boat Show DeVos Performance Hall Disney Junior Live on Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure Dog Story Theater Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Farmers Alley Theatre Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Frauenthal Center Muskegon Civic Theatre presents Other Desert Cities Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky, Sunday Classical Concert Series The Intersection Motionless In White wsg For Today New Years Day and Ice Nine Kills KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Mangiamo! Live Accordion Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young UICA Portraits by James LaCroix, Oscar Shorts 15 VFW Flat River Post LowellArts! Players - Cookin’ With Gus Water Street Gallery Winter Break Gallery Stroll / Outside the Box ‘Little Boxes’ Exhibit

monday

2.23

Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington Mangiamo! Music In The Lounge MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes The Pyramid Scheme Swans, Xylouris, White O’Toole’s Open Mic Night Old Dog Tavern GLAMA Jam Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rocky’s Free Bingo With Prizes

68 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

tuesday

2.24

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Potterday: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I The B.O.B Network After Work GR at Home Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Dog Story Theater [exit Mrs Behn] or The Leo Play Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Public Museum Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda The Intersection Big Head Todd and the Monsters KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Open Mic Night With Branden Mann Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rocky’s Open Mic with Sam Kenny Schuler Books 28th Street Author Talk and Booksigning with Patrick Evans UICA Portraits by James LaCroix, Oscar Shorts 15 Van Andel Arena Nickelback, The Pretty Reckless Wealthy Theatre Meanwhile Movie: Napoleon Dynamite

wednesday

2.25

The B.O.B Gabrial James Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Dog Story Theater [exit Mrs Behn] or The Leo Play Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan

Gipper’s Bar & Restaraunt Party Sing Along With Bimini Lite GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington JW Marriott 2015 West Michigan Go Red For Women® Luncheon KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Loosemore Auditorium Fourth Annual Women & Environment Symposium MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman UICA Portraits by James LaCroix, Oscar Shorts 15

thursday

2.26

Aquinas College Melancholy Play Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Sidewalk Chalk Blue Dog Tavern Dennie Middleton Piano Bar Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light Dr. Grins Owen Benjamin Frauenthal Center Muskegon Civic Theatre presents Other Desert Cities Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GRAM Workshop: Create for a Cause GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped LowellArts! West Michigan Regional Art Competition Mangiamo! Wine School

Paper Diamond at The Intersection Feb.21 Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern Abigail Stauffer, Nobody’s Darlin’ The Pyramid Scheme Cosmonaut, Evergreen Shade, Crooked Heart Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman Rocky’s Joe Rodriguez, Dead Eye Zack, Cole Hansen and Joel Curtis Schuler Books 28th Street Author Talk and Booksigning with Michaela Lynn Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Dirty Bourbon River Show UICA Portraits by James LaCroix, Oscar Shorts 15 Van Andel Arena Disney On Ice: Passport To Adventure

friday

2.27

Aquinas College Melancholy Play Blue Water Gallery GVSU China: The Life of the Civilian Bobarino’s at the B.O.B. Dueling Pianos with Dennie Middleton and Friends Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeVos Place WMWA Valentine’s Bridal Show Dog Story Theater Stark Turn Playwriting Competition Dr. Grins Owen Benjamin Fifth Third Ballpark 10th Annual Winter Beer Festival Foundry Hall Tunebugs Frauenthal Center Alley Door Club presents Big Daddy Fox; Muskegon Civic Theatre presents Other Desert Cities

Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Civic Theatre South Pacific GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky GVSU Art Gallery Veracity Distortion Reduction: Visual Explorations by Ed Wong-Ligda Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection The Contortionist, The Floozies KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped Little River Casino Resort Jim Belushi & The Board Of Comedy LowellArts! West Michigan Regional Art Competition Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes Miller Auditorium Stomp Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young Old Dog Tavern OMG Nashon Holloway Papa Pete’s Citizun The Pyramid Scheme Super Happy Funtime Burlesque Red Wall Gallery The Evolving System Group Portfolio and Recent Printmaking Work by Bill Hosterman River City Saloon OTC Rockford Brewing Company Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish Rocky’s Control, The Moonrays Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill Angela Perley & The Howlin’ Moons wsg Briar Rabbit UICA Metalhead (Malmhaus), Portraits by James LaCroix Van Andel Arena Disney On Ice: Passport To Adventure VFW Flat River Post LowellArts! Players - Cookin’ With Gus

Wealthy Theatre Grands Rule premiere

saturday

2.28

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Potterday: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II Aquinas College Melancholy Play Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Flypaper wsg Roostand Bobarino’s Dueling Pianos with Dennie Middleton and Friends Brewery Vivant Brewery Vivant Brewer’s Big Breakfast Butch’s South of the Equator Wine Tasting Center Art Gallery Calvin College Between the Shadow and the Light DeVos Performance Hall GR Symphony Presents ‘Symphony with Soul’ featuring Vanessa Williams Dog Story Theater Stark Turn Playwriting Competition Dr. Grins Owen Benjamin

Fifth Third Ballpark 10th Annual Winter Beer Festival Frauenthal Theatre Muskegon Civic Theatre presents Other Desert Cities Frederik Meijer Gardens Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan GR Civic Theatre South Pacific GR Public Museum Real Pirates GRAM David Greenwood, GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014, Edward Burtynsky Holland Museum A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington The Intersection Mega 80’s with DJ Jason Veeder KIA How to Return?, Second Sight/ Insight II, Redefining the Multiple, Wired and Wrapped LowellArts! West Michigan Regional Art Competition Master Arts Theatre Honk! MercuryHead Gallery George Peebles Landscapes The Music Factory Prodical Child Records Mardi Gras Bash Muskegon Museum of Art Illustrations of Amy Young

Old Dog Tavern BenJammin & Analisa Papa Pete’s Desmond Jones The Pyramid Scheme Vault of Midnight Presents: Super Heroes Unite! River City Saloon OTC Rockford Brewing The Muteflutes Rocky’s The Remnants Chalk Fight and The Distorted Waltz Shakespeare’s Lower Level Crazy ‘80s Party with Starfarm Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill The JetBeats & The Truckstop Cobras UICA Metalhead (Malmhaus), Portraits by James LaCroix Van Andel Arena Disney On Ice: Passport To Adventure VFW Flat River Post LowellArts! Players - Cookin’ With Gus Wealthy Theatre Fly Fishing Film Tour n

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

SKAT E P R I C E S :

FEATURED IN THIS YEAR’S

$2 18+ $1 18 and under EVENT IS FREE Break out your neon jackets and hair scrunchies. We’ll have 80’s themed ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle with AB spinning the tunes, free hot chocolate, and a costume contest with Downtown prizes for the best dressed.

ladies literary club

Jan 31 Feb 7 Feb 21 Mar 7 Mar 14 all shows 7:33 PM rivercityiMProv.coM

To register for a tutor orientation, call (616) 459-5151 or visit literacycenterwm.org

25+ Ice Sculptures One 3,000 lb Masterpiece

visit downtowngr.org for more information

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

Scene | Sounds | Sights | Dining Schedule

Learn more on Feb. 3 or 12

Last Call by Rei Robinson

The Dry Agent

of hurriedly poured glass-fillings, but a celebration of the fare that is taste and time and alcohol.

The Underground, Rockford I command these words to paper with hand atremble. Found am I, perched ad precarium aboard a barstool in a veritable Elysian Field of fine quaff. For certainly, no concoction of the wrangled Terra could formulate such fine a philter as that which I now quaff: The Dry Agent.

While heaving a wide battery of cocktails, the standout for me is the aforementioned Dry Agent. With a leading, yet graciously not overpowering taste of ginger, phantom hints of molasses candy, it seems to pose the query: Is it possible for something to be so flowingly thin as a swift river while thickly coating the palate like a whisper syrup? Also, it tastes like a miracle?

For you see, dear recipient of my imbibed travelogue, I have discovered the heavens themselves in The Underground.

I posit: Yes.

A small hall in the wall, Rockford’s The Underground is as aptly named as its cocktails are crafted. Distilling their own spirits and hand-crafting every drink with the grandest care, the corridor in which I find myself is perhaps the greatest little secret of this ‘burb. This is not a mill-runnery

70 | REVUEWM.COM | February 2015

It made me almost sad to drink because I knew it wouldn’t last forever. Every sip a sip closer to the end. Memento mori. But also, Memorate vivere!

I believe it was Thomas Carlyle who wrote, “The work an unknown good man has done goes underground, secretly making the ground green and people pleasantly drunk with fine spirits.” But then again, I have been drinking.

ALL YOU HAVE SOUGHT IS HIDDEN BUT NOT IMPERCEIVABLE, SIMPLY GAZE INTO THE UNDERGROUND, FOR THERE LIES THE CONSTITUTION OF YOUR SOLACE. 1 oz of The Underground’s Artesian Whiskey Muddled Ginger Rosemary Liqueur Shake these elements and mist them with a touch of dry vermouth. Then, while there’s still time, garnish with three raspberries. For good luck.

Photo: Kelsey Wahowiak

3 Course Dinner!

Valentines Day!

P. (616) 451.4300 www.GrandWoodsLounge.com 77 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

BOGO TS THURSDAYS E K C U B Y D O WO

w w w . g r a n d w o o d s l o u

DJ MATT B THROW BACK 90’S

FR I DAY N I G HT LIVE Feb 6th - AVON BOMB Feb 13th - JAKE STEVENS Feb 20th - FUNKLE JESSE Feb 27th - BRENA

Happy Hour in the woods

$4 - Woodstinis and Wine $3 - Wells and Drafts Mon – Fri 2pm – 6pm

SATURDAYS

DJ DANIMAL LADIES NIGHT!

REVUEWM.COM | February 2015 |

SlowRide SESSION IPA

Sit Back and Session in Style.

Padded with citrus aromas and a bevy of hops, this could be the most comfortable ride you can have with a sessionable IPA. Experience life in slow-mo at newbelgium.com

#GoSlowMo

SLOW RIDE SESSION IPA IS BREWED BY NEW BELGIUM BREWING FORT COLLINS, CO