April 2015 - GRM

CELEBRATING CITY LIFE

www.grmag.com

It’s okay to look How art enables Robert Andy Coombs

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Contents APRIL 2015 / VOL. 52 / NO. 04

FEATURES 40 / Outdoor oases When the weather turns warm, it’s time to entertain in the backyard. Locals share ideas for successful parties.

BY MARTY PRIMEAU

46 / GR’s bicycling community Whether they’re commuting to work, competing in races, riding long-distance or biking for fun with family and friends, local cyclists can find support at every turn.

BY MARLA MILLER

40 6 GRMAG.COM \ APRIL 2015

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contents APRIL 2015 / VOL. 52 / NO. 04

departments BACK & FORTH 12 / From the Editor

38 / Art Talk: First (Park) Congregational Church tapestry

12 / Letters, social media and more

FOOD & DRINK 52 / Chef Profile: Jeremy and Jamie Paquin of whistle punk

14 / Contributors LIFE & STYLE 18 / Noteworthy items include Coffeeboxx, The WE Effort, The Awareness Concert, Doorganics and “Brewed Awakenings.”

54 / Restaurant listings for West Michigan 58 / Dining Review: Honey Creek Inn 66 / Grabbin’ a Bite: Pour House in Ada

52

“The best ingredients are right here in West Michigan, and we are sourcing as much as we possibly can locally.”

— Jeremy Paquin

70 / Nosh & Sip: Antipasto pairings 72 / Pints of Interest: Session beers NEAR & FAR 78 / Millbrook neighborhood OUT & ABOUT 82 / April highlights

24

83 / Calendar

20 / Local Laughs: So long West Michigan

84 / Nightclub & comedy venue listings and highlights

22 / Cooking for strangers 23 / Reading Room: “The Art of Memory”

86 / Liner Notes: Tommee Profitt

34 82

24 / Get your thrift on(line)

92 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights

26 / Big Girl Blog

94 / Snapshots

28 / Fable gets ‘Cast Away’

96 / After Thoughts: Jason Swan of Organicycle

ART & DESIGN 30 / Artist Profile: Robert Andy Coombs

78

33 / Art gallery listings and highlights 34 / Style Seekers: Entertaining by the yard 36 / Frame Works: A splash of color 37 / Franciscan Life Process Center

ON THE COVER: Robert Andy Coombs explores the subject of disabilities in the workplace with his latest work, which is being shown as part of Grand Rapids’ inaugural DisArt Festival.

Photography by Johnny Quirin

8 GRMAG.COM \ APRIL 2015

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T r 1 t w

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The tradition of preparing students for successful, rewarding careers has set Ferris State University apart since 1884. Graduates leave with the knowledge and know-how to make an immediate impact on their futures – and start writing their own success stories, right away.

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back & forth CONNECT WITH US

Designing the future, threading the past

I

IT’S IN THE DNA HERE and you sense it when you see the “floating” bathroom sinks at Donkey T aqueria, the cobalt blue and tile brightness at Bistro Bella Vita where graphics are so pronounced that guests immediately think about art, or the streetscape surrounding 616 Development and Osteria Rossa on Monroe Center: It’s all about design, and Grand Rapids could well earn the distinction of Design City USA. While Detroit made and remakes its design reputation based on automotive products, West Michigan’s legacy reaches back to Baker Furniture, Berkey & Gay, and the office furniture giants changing the face of new millennium offices. It’s as rich at Rockford’s Wolverine World Wide shoemaking as it is at Design Pack whose innovation is universally celebrated: T he Grand Rapids company created a single, accessible and re-usable package to house dozens of different sized iPhone accessories for AT&T. Design matters.

All the more reason to be a part of Design Week April 6-11, which “celebrates the diverse range of design capabilities in the area and builds connections between designers and the region’s cultural, educational and business communities,” according to organizers.

T hose organizers include American Insti-

tute for Graphic Arts West Michigan, American Institute of Architects, International Interior Design Association, Industrial Designers of America, Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, Interaction Design Association (IxDA) and Design West Michigan.

That’s a full house of collaborators.

T his is the second year for the event, although the first was a “test run.” The group has lined up renowned speakers, workshops and tours “to celebrate the diverse range of design capabilities in the area and build connections” with the community.

Sara Klele, AIGA West Michigan Design Week chair, noted in her “save the date” press release: “I believe it shows how important design is to the community.” The full story is at the Design Week website: wmdesignweek.com.

In this issue Grand Rapids Magazine features plenty of design ideas. See Noteworthy in the Life & Style section for one particular item: Jim Doan, a former design manager at Whirlpool, has created a “crush-proof, dust-proof, spill-proof, rust-proof, water-resistant and impact-resistant” coffeepot especially designed for active people in active environments — he calls it Coffeeboxx.

T here are plenty of Pinterest worthy pins in every issue, and plenty to celebrate during Design Week.

Carole Valade Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE’S FEED

We love seeing the city through your eyes, so much so we’re letting local #Michigrammers take over our Instagram feed!

Interested in seeing your photos on our feed?

Simply tag them with #grmag to be featured!

And you never know, we may ask you to do our next Instagram Takeover.

In our first Takeover, Nicole Lewis (@ lewislaneco) showed us her Grand Rapids and filled our grid with gorgeous images from around the city.

We’re listening … see something you like or didn’t like? T here’s tons of ways to reach us. By mail: Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Email: letters@grmag.com. Be sure to include your name, address, and daytime phone number. Or find us online, we love reading your tweets!

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OXX (TOP)

What You’re Saying

12 GRAND RAPIDS \ APRIL 2015

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OXX (TOP)

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contributors BEHIND THE SCENES

You

imagine it.

We

create it.

the spark

3/

THREE OF OUR CONTRIBUTORS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS...

1/

2/

GR AND RAPIDS ZEELAND CHICAGO

1/ MARLA MILLER,

2/ JIM GEBBEN,

Writer

Photographer

3/ NEIL RAJALA,

“GR’S BICYCLING COMMUNITY,” page 46

“A PLEASANT PLACE TO LIVE,” page 78

“NOTABLE READING: ‘THE ART OF MEMORY,’” page 23

I never leave home without ... A bottle of water.

I’m obsessed with … The teachings of the Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk Tich Nhat Hanh, author, poet, calligrapher and peace activist.

What inspires you?

Impressive creative work in any genre — art, literature, music; it doesn’t matter which because they’re all branches of the same tree.

Favorite website or blog: mindbodygreen.com To unwind, I ... Like to escape to the woods or to the beach at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park to hike, catch some rays at the beach, and simply to forget my worries, enjoy being in nature and reconnect with myself.

Custom Cabinetry & Furniture

616.956.3070 woodwayscustom.com

RADIO

My favorite website or blog: PetaPixel.com helps me keep in touch with current photography news.

In my spare time I … Collect records, reel-to-reel tapes, practice yoga and hang out with my girls.

We like to play cards.

Writer

I never leave home without … Making sure all of my doors are locked and that I have my smartphone.

How many books do you read in a week? It varies, especially if you include graphic novels. Between two and six most weeks.

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

Spoiler alert! Each month Frame Works writer Mark Miller provides a glimpse of a local building of architectural note. Readers are challenged to identify the building by the details and photos offered. This month’s answer is: 1200 Godfrey Ave. SW. 14 GRMAG.COM \ APRIL 2015

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Covering Grand Rapids Since 1964 www.grmag.com

info@grmag.com

PUBLISHER: John H. Zwarensteyn

EDITORIAL EDITOR: Carole Valade MANAGING EDITOR: Marty Primeau COPY EDITOR: Donna Ferraro CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Joseph A. Becherer,

Julie Burch, Ira Craaven, Pat Evans, Alexandra Fluegel, DK Hamilton, Abby Heugel, Elissa Hillary, Mark F. Miller, Marla Miller, Amy Ruis, Grant Stoye, Kevin VanAntwerpen, Tricia van Zelst

EDITORIAL INTERNS: Moriah Gilbert, Megan Martin DESIGN PANEL: Joseph A. Becherer, John Berry,

Kevin Budelmann, Jim Caughman, Timothy Chester, Sam Cummings, Oliver Evans, James Ludwig, Ray Kennedy, Henry Matthews, Wayne Norlin, Wayne Visbeen

DESIGN & PRODUCTION NEW MEDIA, DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER:

Scott Sommerfeld

ASSISTANT DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER:

Chris Pastotnik

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

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

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

Randy D. Prichard

ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANTS:

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ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT/COORDINATOR:

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(616) 459-4545

Grand Rapids Magazine (ISSN 1055-5145) is published monthly by Gemini Publications, a division of Gemini Corporation. Publishing offices: 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. T elephone (616) 4594545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: grminfo@grmag. com. General editorial inquiries: editorial@grmag.com.

Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright Š 2015

by Gemini Publications. All rights reserved. POST MAST ER: Send address changes to Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444.

Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscriptions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $4.95 (by mail $7.50); back issue $7 (by mail $9), when available. Advertising rates and specifications at grmag.com or by request. Grand Rapids Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

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

noteworthy INTERESTING TIDBITS WE THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW

The WE Effort This locally based non-profit helps provide educational materials to schools, libraries and other entities.

Country singer Josh Gracin, a Michigan native who first gained attention as the fourth-place finalist during the second season of “American Idol,” will perform an acoustic show April 16 at Wealthy Street Theatre to raise awareness of mental health issues among young adults.

Gracin, who has battled depression, is working on a new album and touring the U.S. The concert will be preceded by a meet-and-greet with the members of PR Connect, a group of young professionals working with Pine Rest Foundation to promote behavioral health.

Ticket info can be found at grcmc.org under Events.

in T anzania. T he WE Effort teamed up with El Barrio Restaurant, which donated 20 percent of an evening’s receipts.

Another project, We Are Limitless, is dedicated to moving Rwandan orphans into boarding schools and more.

Learn how you can help at theweeffort.org.

“It’s an organization that makes introductions between businesses and some nonprofits you might not have heard about that are doing things in education.”

— Brian Vander Ark

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JOSH GRACIN (TOP LEFT); WE ARE LIMITLESS (BOTTOM & TOP RIGHT)

The Awareness Concert

THE VERVE PIPE’S Brian Vander Ark says he’s often asked to do charitable stuff, like donating house concerts to be auctioned at fundraising events. But he and songstress wife Lux Land — parents of two daughters — wanted to do something more for children around the world.

T hey launched T he World Education Effort to provide educational materials to schools, libraries and other entities.

“It’s an organization that makes introductions between businesses and some nonprofits you might not have heard about that are doing things in education,” he said.

The first project in February raised money to purchase 100 books for a new orphanage library

18 GRMAG.COM \ APRIL 2015

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A beast of a brewer BREWED AWAKENINGS “What happens when all goes dark?” is the question posed in “Brewed Awakenings,” the debut anthology from Grand Rapids publisher Caffeinated Press.

A collection of eight short stories

by West Michigan writers, the genres include humor, romance, suspense, horror, magical realism and speculative fiction.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CAFFEINATED PRESS (TOP LEFT); OXX (TOP RIGHT); CAITLIN LONG (BOTTOM)

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JOSH GRACIN (TOP LEFT); WE ARE LIMITLESS (BOTTOM & TOP RIGHT)

A release party will be held April 6 at Schuler Books, 2660 28th St. SE. Visit caffeinatedpress.com.

THERE’S A NEW PRODUCT for caffeine addicts who love the great outdoors. Coffeeboxx is a single-serve coffeemaker marketed as “crushproof, dust-proof, spill-proof, rust-proof, water resistant and impact resistant” — perfect for campers, tailgaters, boaters, hunters and more.

Creator Jim Doan of Grand Rapids, formerly a design manager for Whirlpool, says he got the idea of a durable coffeemaker when he noticed construction workers in a new neighborhood toting “all sorts of beat-up kitchen appliances to the site because they want hot coffee and hot food. It just didn’t look right.”

T hanks to a successful Kickstarter campaign, Doan raised enough money to start mass producing the Coffeeboxx, which sells for $299.

“But we’re not just one hit wonders,” he said.

The OXX team of eight is developing more innovative products. See oxx.com/coffeeboxx-1.

It’s all in the bin If you thought Doorganics only delivers organic produce, listen up. The local grocery delivery service founded by Mike Hughes in 2011 also sells pastureraised meats, cheese, artisan breads, farm eggs, and more than 100 non-GMO grocery items including locally sourced coffee, pasta, syrup, peanut butter, salsa, salads and more.

Hughes and crew deliver to Greater GR and Holland.

For info on how it works, visit doorganicsgr.com.

APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 19

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local laughs

BY DK HAMILTON

I REALLY WASN’T supposed to be here this long.

This spring marks the 20th year I’ve lived in the Grand Rapids area, but I’m moving away. Not just out of West Michigan but out of Michigan entirely.

I’m moving to Massachusetts so I can cross “live in a state with equally poor weather as Michigan but with a much higher cost of living” off my bucket list.

I came here with the intention of staying two years at the most. Although I’m a lifelong Michigander, before I took my first “grown-up” job in Grand Rapids, I thought that I-96 plunged over the edge of the Earth west of Lansing.

If someone would have told me 20 years ago that I would live here for two decades, I would have thought they were crazy, which probably means I also would have not listened to their advice to lay heavy money on the “over” for Super Bowl XLVII. My plans changed. I put down roots, got married, bought a house and started a family. None of which were supposed to happen here.

My first night in Grand Rapids wasn’t promising. I moved on a Sunday and I hadn’t eaten until after I was completely moved in, which was late that night. I was “firstworld” starving, and nothing was open. Welcome to West Michigan, right?

But the nightlife picked up in Grand Rapids over the years and, frankly, my life has slowed down. I never thought I’d ever consider West Michigan my true home, but I think we met up with each other somewhere

in the middle along the way.

I’ve experienced a lot over the years.

I’ve seen a lot of things in the Grand River, although an actual “rapid” has never been one of them.

I’ve been to all of the ArtPrizes, performed in all the LaughFests and observed dozens of relationships begin and end at The B.O.B. (often in the same night).

I got excited by the “Mystery Project,” even though I never really understood what it was supposed to be.

I’ve seen alcohol sold in Grandville without the world coming to an end.

I’ve learned how to pronounce “Versluis.”

I haven’t been to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, but I guess I should save something for return visits.

Even though I’m leaving for a tremendous opportunity, I feel some stubbornness.

I’m not going to abandon my “Midwestern values,” whatever that means.

I’m certainly not going to become a New England Patriots fan because I believe it’s not a real football season unless it ends in tears.

I’m not going to say “soda,” even at risk of going through carbonated beverage withdrawal.

I’ll miss this area, the people, the events and, of course, the reasonable cost of living. When looking at ridiculous house prices in Massachusetts, I asked the realtor if she had any haunted listings that I could see.

By the way, do they accept mPerks in Massachusetts?

I’ve been to all of the ArtPrizes, performed in all the LaughFests and observed dozens of relationships begin and end at The B.O.B.

— DK Hamilton is a freelance writer and comedian who lived in Kentwood.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THINKSTOCK

So long West Michigan

20 GRMAG.COM \ APRIL 2015

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

Cooking for strangers

“It was great, having normal conversations in a home setting.

It was a deep, cultural experience.

I wasn’t eating next to locals; I was eating with locals.”

— Jay Savsani

Sean and Katie Fahey prepare homemade guacamole in their Grand Rapids kitchen.

“It was great, having normal conversations in a home setting. It was a deep, cultural experience. I wasn’t eating next to locals; I was eating with locals.”

Returning home, he wanted to figure out how to take the serendipity of that dinner and make it available to others, using technology.

He started the website in Chicago and Berlin and, as word spread, hosts in hundreds of cities joined in.

T he Faheys were invited to join by a friend. “I signed up with a profile. It’s like airbnb.com, only for meals,” Sean said.

After exchanging profiles with the Chicago couple — including info on everything from cooking preferences to food allergies and household pets — “we felt like we knew them.”

Savsani says all hosts are vetted to make sure the information provided is legit.

And mealsharing.com isn’t just for travelers, he said.

“In cities like Grand Rapids, hosts are sharing meals with people in their own community. It’s a great way to meet new friends.”

For more information, visit mealsharing.

— MARTY PRIMEAU com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP); COURTESY THINKSTOCK (BOTTOM)

SEAN AND KATIE FAHEY recently whipped up dinner in their Grand Rapids home for a young couple driving from Chicago to Detroit.

T he four had never met but connected on mealsharing.com. T he website links travelers with local hosts in 450 cities around the world.

“It’s kind of funny,” Sean said. “When they arrived at our home, we hugged and it was like welcoming old friends.”

T hat’s the kind of experience Jay Savsani of Chicago envisioned when he launched mealsharing.com two years ago.

Here’s how it works: Potential hosts create a meal specifying what they are making, how many people can attend, and an optional chip-in price per person to help offset the cost of ingredients.

Guests from around the world can search for hosts when they travel, perusing menus and checking past reviews of the hosts.

Savsani says he got the idea for the website after eating dinner in the home of a Cambodian family while traveling overseas.

“I didn’t want to be on the other side of the world eating in tourist traps and overpriced restaurants,” he said.

So while checking into his hotel, Savsani asked if someone on the staff could find him a home-cooked meal.

“They lit up and brought about 15 to 20 people into the lobby who were willing to cook for me,” he said.

He enjoyed a meal in the countryside of Siem Reap with a farmer and his family.

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READING ROOM

Notable reading: ‘The Art of Memory’

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP & LEFT); COURTESY WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY PRESS (TOP RIGHT); ARCADIA PUBLISHING (BOTTOM RIGHT)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP); COURTESY THINKSTOCK (BOTTOM)

After 30 years of manning the helm of local law firm Dilley & Dilley, started in 1916 by his grandfather, father and uncles, T om Dilley is having no difficulty finding ways to fill his time.

“T he Art of Memory” is his fourth book, following three titles featuring his vast personal collection of vintage Grand Rapids postcards and stereographs.

Dilley also serves on the board of trustees of the Grand Rapids Historical Society and Grand Rapids Public Museum Foundation. But it’s during the second week of September every year when you’ll find him indulging in one of his greatest pleasures: leading a cemetery tour in partnership with the Historical Society.

“Last year we had about 800 people for our tour of Fulton Cemetery,” he says. “We sold nearly

700 copies of the book, and the publisher generously offered a share of their profits to the Society.”

Guided cemetery tours are gaining in popularity because it’s “a much richer experience when you can understand the obscure symbolic meanings that became more and more popular,” Dilley said.

In “The Art of Memory,” Dilley explains how early cemeteries were unadorned burial grounds, lacking in landscaping or any other kind of aesthetic appeal. But everything changed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At that time, Dilley says, the movement to create a new style of “park” cemeteries “was related to public health and city planning, along with changes to the religious and philosophical outlooks of people — more toward consolation and remembrance.”

T he new concept was instantly successful in exactly the way city planners hoped: People became attracted to green, reflective places within the urban environment, and the idea for communities to create the great urban parks we know today actually sprung from the appeal of the new cemeteries.

“It wasn’t that (cities) were opposed to public parks before that,” says Dilley. “It just hadn’t occurred to them.”

“The Art of Memory” was chosen as a Michigan Notable Book for 2015 by the Library of Michigan.

Visit grandrapidscemeteries.com.

Other books by Thomas R. Dilley “GRAND RAPIDS: COMMUNITY AND INDUSTRY” Postcards show changes in city’s history from 1900-1960.

“GRAND RAPIDS IN STEREOGRAPHS: 1860-1900” Rare photos of the city’s earliest buildings and streetscapes.

“GRAND RAPIDS IN VINTAGE POSTCARDS, 1890-1940” Five decades of the city’s history is illustrated in postcards.

— NEIL RAJALA APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 23

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

Get your thrift

f

n(line)

OR THOSE WHO have a thing for retro styles, there’s a new shop in town. The only catch is it’s located on the Internet.

Kyra Crandol is the mastermind behind Studio|T hrift, an online store launched last October. A frequent traveler, she picks up rare vintage pieces at thrift stores and sells them on her website, studiothrift.com.

“Even before I started my business, I would thrift for myself,” she said. “Whenever I go out of town, I come back with something.”

While in graduate school at Wayne State University, Crandol needed business casual clothing for an internship — but she didn’t want to break the bank. She turned to resale shops for professional attire.

Once friends and colleagues began complimenting her unique outfits, it was obvious she had an eye for good vintage finds.

After landing a job working for the state in West Michigan, the 25-year-old Detroit native wanted to spend her free time in a fun and productive way.

“I started getting a little bored,” Crandol said. “I just needed something extra to do. I thought, and thought and thought.

Then I realized I hadn’t thrifted in a while, so I started again.”

That’s when she decided to open an online store. Studio|Thrift caters to women and only carries vintage clothes that are in good condition.

Crandol displays her items on a mannequin she calls Charlotte. On Wednesdays, Studio|Thrift’s Facebook page features What Charlotte Wore, showing different ways of wearing various pieces from the shop.

“Someone may see a blouse and not know how to wear it,” Crandol said. “I put different outfits together to try and show the versatility of the pieces.”

A lot of the clothing can be worn in workplace settings but can

also be dressed down, says Crandol.

“I try to make my pieces unique — meaning you won’t be able to go to the mall and find the same thing,” Crandol said. “I like to stick with the vintage — it’s better quality.”

The online shop also features a section called Luxe Thrift, which is reserved for designer brands. Lucky shoppers might score highend pieces from such designers as Oscar de la Renta and Chanel.

All items range in price from $5 to $75, plus shipping and handling.

“Outside of offering convenience, I want women to know they don’t have to spend a lot of money to look nice.”

Visit studiothrift.com or find it on Facebook.

— KENDAL PEKTAS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM GEBBEN

“I try to make my pieces unique — meaning you won’t be able to go to the mall and find the same thing.”

— Kyra Crandol

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

I wake up every morning (twice) and know I have to concentrate on my calorie intake and exercise. It’s not how I want to live. I find pleasure in food and eating. I realize that will never change.

BIG GIRL BLOG

Jenna Arcidiacono, center, walks with Cory Novack and Tisha Wilson.

Chef Jenna Arcidiacono shares three tips that are helping her reach her goal of dropping 80 pounds.

T he struggle is real. It would be a lot easier to give up.

There are so many excuses I could use.

I work as a chef in a restaurant where it would be totally feasible to devour 3,900 calories in 10 minutes.

I have a horrible sleep schedule. I am writing this at 1:49 a.m. I am lucky if I fall asleep before 3 a.m., only to be back up at 6 to get my two daughters on the bus an hour apart. I get back in bed at 8 and am lucky if I fall asleep by 9.

When am I supposed to work out?

T he truth is, we can all find pretty good excuses as to why we don’t eat right or work out.

I wake up every morning (twice) and know I have to concentrate on my calorie intake and exercise. It’s not how I want to live.

I find pleasure in food and eating. I realize that will never change.

What I have to do now is reprogram myself a little. I have to find pleasure in bites of food rather than plates of food. I am not 100 percent convinced, but I am focusing on that aspect.

T he things that are helping me get through my days are: 1) Friends. You can’t do this alone. I am in a group of 25 people who are all motivated to lose weight. We weigh in every Saturday and hold each other accountable. We also send each other hilarious texts about how “hangry” we are.

2) Family. Your family health history is important. Your parents’ and grandparents’ health issues will most likely be yours. I have heart issues and diabetes in my family, and losing weight and exercising will help lessen some of these problems. I like to believe that every five pounds I lose adds one year to my life.

3) T ime. I have to constantly remind myself that it took me 15 years and two pregnancies to get to the weight I am today. I cannot expect to lose 15 years of weight gain in two months. It’s only fair to give your body time to lose the weight in a healthy way.

Next month I’m going to share a few of the recipes I have been using.

— Follow Jenna at facebook.com/jenna.arcidia cono.

Editor’s note: Chef Jenna Arcidiacono of Amore Trattoria Italiana in Comstock Park is embarking on a weight loss journey. We are following her progress each month.

Stay tuned.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

No more excuses

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

The spoken-word poet known as Fable is heading out on the road for a 10-week national tour. Donate to his campaign at gofundme.com/ fablethepoet.

L

OCAL SPOKEN-WORD poet Marcel Price, who performs at weekly events under the name Fable, will embark on a 10-week solo tour this spring, driving a rental car from Louisiana to New York City.

He’s raising funds for his “Cast Away” tour through a GoFundMe campaign (a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Grand Rapids Creative Youth Center).

Although he knows of other spoken-word poets in the country who have done national

tours, he says he’s “definitely the first out of Grand Rapids” to attempt a tour this ambitious.

Born in Lansing and raised in Ann Arbor, Price first discovered poetry as a teenager at an arts camp hosted by the University of Michigan.

The spoken-word workshop there was taught by a poet named Slamon.

“All of your poems are stories,” Slamon observed, dubbing him “Fable.” The name stuck.

Price has now lived in Grand Rapids for more than seven years and says most people in town still know him only as Fable.

“I’ve never lived anywhere that feels so much like home,” he says of Grand Rapids. He moved here specifically for the burgeoning poetry scene, drawn by the Smokin’ Spoken Word event at Eastown Hookah Lounge. His talent caught attention quickly.

After performing one night, Fable and his friend G Foster were approached by Mark Sellers of HopCat and Barfly Ventures, who asked if they would be interested in hosting their own show.

The show turned out to be a hit.

The Drunken Retort, which takes place every Monday night at Stella’s Lounge, is consistently standing-room only. Fable is now something of a rarity: a professional poet.

Fable credits the success of the show to the unique nature of the local poetry scene. At spoken-word events in other cities, Fable laughs, “You’ll see the crowd just sitting around nodding, scratching their chins.”

In contrast, at T he Drunken Retort, the audience yells, whoops, cheers and occasionally reaches over to ring the plastic clackers stationed at every table. You don’t want to hear those clackers while performing — the sound means the crowd is booting you off the stage.

T he show includes spoken-word poetry, singer-songwriters and stand-up comedy, and attracts guests from far beyond Michigan. A recent guest performer from Ireland marveled at the energy, saying he had “never seen anything like this.”

Fable is eager to spread the word about the local scene during his national tour. He hopes Grand Rapids will someday be known as much for its acoustic arts as for its visual arts.

He thinks back to how Detroit developed a unique Motown sound in the ’60s and he sees a similar phenomenon beginning to happen here.

He gestures out the windows with a look of excitement.

“Grand Rapids has a sound!” — MATT BAKER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Fable gets ‘Cast Away’

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

“Disabled people see things differently. We are hugely creative because we have to be. We have to be creative simply to make our lives accessible.”

— Robert Andy Coombs

Artist Robert Andy Coombs works on a photo shoot with assistant Matt Marculis.

Changing minds about disabilities Robert Andy Coombs explores the subject of disabilities in the workplace with his latest work, which is being shown as part of Grand Rapids’ inaugural DisArt Festival.

Photography by Johnny Quirin

magine for a moment that you’re waiting for a prospective employee to enter the room for a job interview. The door opens and, in a mix of mechanics and moxie, Robert Andy Coombs rolls into the room in his wheelchair.

Do you reach out your hand?

Does he notice the surprise on your face?

Do you mention his wheelchair during the interview?

Coombs, an artist and 2013 graduate of Kendall College of Art and Design, has been in this situation many times. Between job interviews and client meetings, he is somewhat used to the stunned, unsure looks on people’s faces when they realize he uses a wheelchair.

“The handshake — that can be the most awkward thing,” says Coombs, who has been quadriplegic after a trampoline accident in 2009. “I would rather have someone

grab my hand and shake it than have them avoid the situation because they think it’s awkward or they’re rude.”

Coombs is exploring the subject of disabilities in the workplace with his latest work, which is being shown as part of Grand Rapids’ inaugural DisArt Festival. T he multi-media celebration aims to change minds about disability, one work of art at a time.

When it comes to his professional life, Coombs says his disability is a doubleedged sword.

“If I downplay it, I’m not being true to myself, and if I give too much information, I wonder if I’m hindering my chances for the job. Sometimes people just won’t give you a chance (when they find out about a disability); they won’t even entertain the idea of it not being an issue.”

It’s a perception thing, says Coombs.

And a fear thing.

“It’s fear of the unknown. T here’s a lot

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Scott Carey

of mystery when it comes to disability,” he said.

T hough when it comes to the workplace, he says, employers should welcome the diversity of having someone disabled as an employee.

“Disabled people see things differently.

We are hugely creative because we have to be. We have to be creative simply to make our lives accessible.”

Coombs had to learn a whole new way of living following his accident, which occurred while he was practicing at a gymnastics gym. In the midst of a double back flip on a trampoline, he became disoriented and landed on his neck, breaking it and paralyzing him.

Following surgery, he had to learn to breathe independently — and that was only the beginning.

At the time, Coombs was still a student at Kendall College of Art and Design, a seven-hour drive from his parents’ home in the Upper Peninsula, where he was recuperating. He said he had no idea how he was going to return to the way his life had been.

“I debated whether or not I was going to come back to GR,” he recalls. “But I had an amazing support system. All my friends were here, and all of my professors really wanted me to come back. The whole school was like, ‘Anything you need to succeed, we will make it happen.’”

When Coombs returned after a year, he lived in downtown Grand Rapids and said the kindness of others made life a bit easier.

“Grand Rapids is a city, but it has such a small town demeanor. Everyone is super helpful. I would go to school by myself sometimes, and if I needed help — say if a book fell off my lap or something — I could ask and someone would always help me.”

Though Grand Rapidians may be “Midwest nice,” Coombs says there’s still a lot of work to be done in how people without disabilities view and engage those with disabilities.

He said he’s been inspired by the questions people have been brave enough to ask and thinks cultivating a spirit of courage and curiosity is what it takes to change the way disabled people are perceived and portrayed.

“I don’t mind when kids ask me questions. It’s when we’re young when we’re taught not to stare, to ignore, to not ask questions, to be hush-hush,” he explains.

“If we teach them to ask questions and be involved, then it will be less of a thing.”

Beyond having the courage and curiosity to ask a question is the fact that people often aren’t sure how to talk about disabilities, something that Coombs says he’s still learning, too.

“Being involved in the disabled community has given me a crash course in how

Fine jewelry made in East Hills on the corner of Cherry & Diamond.

Robert Andy Coombs and Matt Medendorp, assistant swim coach at Grandville High School, check out photos taken by Coombs.

Tu-Fr 10-5 Sat 12-4 616-459-5075 978 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids MI shop@metalartstudioinc.com APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 31

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

The DisArt Festival runs April 10-25 at various locations in Grand Rapids, including UICA, Grand Rapids Art Museum, Kendall College of Art and Design and Wealthy Theatre. For more information, visit disartfestival.org.

Robert Andy Coombs, who has been quadriplegic since 2009, poses with photos from his 2013 ArtPrize entry, Ladyboy, in which he sheds light on the issues of gender identity and playing with classic gender roles.

to talk about it, but at the end of the day, everyone has different preferences and it’s just being open to learning what those are,” he said.

Coombs said he was just hitting his stride as a photographer when his accident happened. Afterward, he had to determine how his new physical being would impact his identity — and his work.

“When people become disabled later in life, they don’t want to show their disability, they don’t want to be part of that community. They don’t think they need to be because they were an able-bodied person before,” he said, admitting he experienced those feelings after his accident.

“I wanted to be known as a fantastic artist first. I wanted to downplay my dis-

ability, but when it comes down to it, I am disabled.”

Coombs said it’s getting to know other disabled people that has empowered him to embrace a new way of living. “It’s really empowering to not be afraid to tell people, ‘Yeah, I’m in a wheelchair,’ and try and change that perception that people in wheelchairs are just sitting at home not doing anything.”

He credits the staff at Kendall for helping him adapt to new ways of creating work.

He now uses a computer to control the movements of his camera. T he software allows him to click and capture his shots, and he uses an assistant to help modify anything on-site.

Before his accident, Coombs’ work was fashion-focused, and while he shoots stunning fashion photographs, it’s been his work addressing issues related to disabilities and identity that have earned him the highest recognition.

“I’ve begun asking the questions that people don’t like to ask about injuries like mine, and answering them through my art,” Coombs wrote in a story for Huffington Post.

In 2012, Coombs’ ArtPrize entry “Disabilities and Sexuality,” a series of blackand-white nude photographs of young men with varying degrees of physical disabilities, placed in the T op 25 in the popular vote and earned a place on the 2-D Juried Short List.

He says the negative connotations associated with having a disability, like not being able to find a job and not going on dates, are understandable, but it doesn’t need to be that way. He volunteers at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, talking to people who are newly disabled, and he doesn’t sugarcoat it.

“I tell them, ‘Yeah, it sucks now, but the worst has already happened. You have this wonderful opportunity to start your life over.”

He said he hopes the DisArt Festival will show people with disabilities how much they are capable of. “T he time is now. We need to get out in the open and show what amazing things the disabled community is doing.”

“All you can do is try, and if you fail, you fail — whatever. Try something new, or better yet, find new ways to do things.”

— ALEXANDRA FLUEGEL

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Local art galleries COMPILED BY MORIAH GILBERT

1/ TERRYBERRY GALLERY: An exhibition by James Johnson is on display for the month of April. All paintings are watercolors Johnson completed within the year, including figurative work, landscapes and still lives. Johnson loves art that is loose and spontaneous, which he only finds working with watercolors. Lower level, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmc-online.org/building/terryberry-gallery.

2/ KENDALL COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN: The Fed Galleries will show “Art of the Lived Experiment” April 10-July 31, jointly exhibited with UICA and GRAM during the DisArt Festival. Conceived by DaDaFest International, it explores change, adjustment and transmutation in the lives of disabled people. Galleries include: Fountain Street Building, 17 Fountain St. NW, and The Fed Galleries, 17 Pearl St. NW, kcad.edu/galleries.

3/ CALVIN COLLEGE CENTER ART GALLERY: On display until April 25: Compromised Beauty by Jennifer Steensma Hoag showcases her photos of controversial environmental topics; also, Earthwork: Collected Clay from East to West. Covenant FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE, 526-6271, calvin.edu/centerartgallery.

2/ “Rising From Ashes”

by Marylu Dykstra

Craft House: Collaborative art and art discussion space. April 5-11: contemporary artist Steven Rainey exhibits. 40 S. Division Ave., crafthousegr. com and Facebook.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JIM JOHNSON (TOP); MARYLU DYKSTRA (MIDDLE); JENNIFER STEENSMA HOAG (BOTTOM)

Design Quest Gallery: “Uncommon Beauty in Common Places” through May 17, featuring works by nature photographer Dan Bauer. 4181 28th St. SE, 940-9911, designquest. biz.

106 Gallery and Studio: Calvin College-run gallery in Heartside features student and local artists’ work.

106 S. Division Ave., calvin.edu/center artgallery/studio.

Art Gallery 318: Fine art by Kathleen Mooney; open by appointment and during regular open houses. 318 E. Main St., Lowell, 890-1879, kath leenmooney.com.

Aquinas College Gallery: Work from students, faculty and visiting artists. Opening reception 2-4 p.m.

April 12 for Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition. Art & Music Building, 1607 Robinson Road SE, aquinascollege. edu/art/gallery.html.

Cascade Art Gallery: Multi-media art, print collection, glass, sculpture, jewelry, custom framing, gifts. 2840 Thornapple River Drive SE, 949-4056, cascadegallery.blogspot.com.

Con Artist Crew: Art collective and gallery. 1111 Godfrey SW, North Building, conartistcrew.com.

Flat River Gallery: Works in a variety of media, custom framing. April and May: Pastels by Gene Sampson, opening reception 2-4:30 April 18. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 987-6737, flatriver galleryandframing.com.

Forest Hills Fine Art Center: April 16-May 13, Forest Hills Public Schools K-12 student exhibition. Reception 6 p.m. April 21, open to the public. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhfine artscenter.com.

Gallery @ A.K. Rikk’s: Located inside a fashion boutique, the gallery features work by local and nationally renowned artists. 6303 28th St. SE, 957-3242, akrikks.com.

Gallery 154: Local and national multi-media art, gifts, jewelry. 1456 Lake Drive SE, 454-2154, gallery154. com.

Glitter Milk Gallery: Exhibits emerging artists and seasoned professionals. 901 Alpine Ave. NW, (248) 894-8403, glittermilkgallery.com.

Grand Rapids Art Museum: See Museums & Attractions.

GVSU Art Gallery: Exhibits student artwork and that of renowned

artists. April 13-25, School of Communications Photography Senior Thesis Exhibition, opening reception 5-7 p.m. April 16. 1121 Performing Arts Center, Allendale campus, 331-2563, gvsu.edu/artgallery.

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

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: See Museums & Attractions.

LaFontsee Galleries: Gallery artists display 2D and 3D works.

Framing, restoration services available. Grand Rapids: 833 Lake Drive SE, includes Urban Craft Boutique.

Douglas: 401 W. Center St., reopens for season April 3 (open Fri.-Sun.) .

451-9820, lafontsee.us.

LINC Gallery: Showcases local emerging and established artists.

341 Hall St. SE, 451-9140, lincrev.org.

LowellArts! King Gallery: Changing exhibitions of works by Michigan artists. Western Michigan Regional Art Competition through April 15. 149 S. Hudson, Lowell, 897-8545, lowell artsmi.org.

1/ “The Reader” by James Johnson at Terryberry Gallery 451-2393.

Richard App Gallery: Fine art from local and U.S. artists. 910 Cherry St. SE, 458-4226, therichardapp gallery.tumblr.com.

Sacred Roots Gallery and Salon: East GR hair salon features work by local artists. 2237 Wealthy St. SE, 776-6090, sacredrootssalon.com.

Sanctuary Folk Art: Salon-style gallery displays and sells local folk art. 140 S. Division Ave., 454-0401, Facebook.

Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts: Innovative exhibits and installations. “Art of the Live Experiment,” April 10-July 31; opening reception 5:30-9:30 p.m. April 10. 2 W. Fulton St., 459-7000, uica.org.

Check websites for hours of operation.

3/ “Untitled,” by Jennifer Steensma Hoag at Compromised Beauty exhibit.

MercuryHead Gallery: Displays a variety of work by local artists; gifts, photo restoration, digital printing on canvas, framing. 962 E. Fulton St., 456-6022, Facebook.

Muskegon Museum of Art: See Museums & Attractions.

Perception Gallery: Fine art, home décor, art restoration and appraisal services. 210 E. Fulton St., APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 33

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

STYLE SEEKER

Entertaining by the yard Kathryn Chaplow knows how to throw a fun backyard party.

1. Organic bling: These geode bangles, from Lee & Birch boutique, 759 Wealthy St. SE, add juicy color to any warmweather outfi .

2. Plate and charger: Art of the Table, 606 Wealthy St. SE, offe s a brilliant variety of goods and foods for outdoor entertaining. This printed porcelain fish dish and alvanized charger have a sophisticated whimsy and connect beautifully to an outdoor setting, particularly by the water.

3. Grass votive: Mercury glass votives shine day and night, with a gorgeous green glow after dark. The grass motif is fresh and modern.

Available at Wealthy at Charles, 738 Wealthy St. SE.

4. Tabletop fi e pit: Add

need to head snacks so you don’t back inside to refresh.

T hrow down a rug and add cozy throw blankets over the arms of chairs for cool evening air so the party can continue after the sun goes down. And don’t forget the lighting! Candles, fire pits, torches and low light from fixtures or vintage-inspired strings of Edison bulb lights create a warm and flattering glow without glare.

Create a color story. Whether neutral or colorful, consider how your selections for everything from umbrellas to cocktail napkins “speak” to one another. Is your color palette hot? Refreshing and cool? Utterly simple with layers of white and gray? Determine and stick to your design direction, keeping exterior elements such as brick, siding and landscaping in mind.

And most importantly, don’t allow yourself to become burdened with the idea of making things perfect. Ultimately, spring and summer in Michigan offer the best setting for enjoying time spent with family and friends outside.

Have fun, be creative, and make a habit of using the outside space you have available every chance you get. You’ve been waiting for it!

— Kathryn Chaplow, who leads a Grand Rapids interior design firm, is passionate about supporting local creative culture.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

glow to your outdoor dinner or coffee table with this chic tabletop fi e pit from Wealthy at Charles. Perfect for small spaces and apartment balconies.

WAIT FOR IT … WAIT FOR IT … SPRING! We all anticipate it and welcome it with open windows, lightweight duds and backyard revelry.

T his beautiful season of gorgeous greens and sweet-smelling blossoms makes us fall in love with West Michigan all over again. Don’t waste a minute of it! Here are ideas for making the most of your outdoor space this season: Accessorize! Designers know the right finishing touches are what make a room special.

T he same applies to outdoor spaces. Pillows, accent tables, plants on table tops and an array of items like decorative serving pieces, trays, candleholders and even artwork will elevate even the simplest outdoor spot.

Mix it up. Don’t be afraid to use different materials and styles together. Just because a lot of outdoor furniture is sold in sets does not mean your furniture has to match. Bringing together elements of wood, wicker, metal, concrete and even plastic gives your outdoor space a sense of personal style, layering and interest. Choose an overarching theme to tie it all together. Create a design connection between the indoors and out.

Make it special after dark.

Set up a bar for drinks and

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David Lock, Misfit (Shadow), 2012

AD BW 4C FULL PG

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Art of the Lived Experiment is an exhibition of international, contemporary Disability Arts showing in Grand Rapids, MI from April 10 to July 31, 2015.

uica.org

kcad.edu

artmuseumgr.org

disartfestival.org

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

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frame works

BY MARK F. MILLER

Guess the building:* A splash of color while impactful, are not the most characterdefining features of the entryway.

Unique architectural details and materials surround the front door, providing visual interest in a variety of colors, patterns and textures.

These architectural gestures reinforce the importance of the door.

Like the building’s windows, the door is topped with a decorative arch, and the classic detailing is continued with a pair of engaged Doric columns that frame the door. T he entry projection is capped by a gable roof trimmed in natural, unglazed terra cotta tiles. Below this gable, a grouping of glazed green tiles contains an integrated sign from an earlier tenant (perhaps even one of the first tenants).

Finally, and most notably, concentric polychromatic terra cotta tiles surround and accentuate the door. With black, red, blue and green colors, these tiles pull the eyes of passersby to the door and provide an interesting focal point in an otherwise relatively utilitarian architectural context.

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

MORE TO KNOW: > This building was once the office of a mechanical contractor and is now home to a spice purveyor.

> “Engaged” columns are columns that are partially connected to the wall, not freestanding. > Glazed architectural terra cotta was popular in the United States from the late 19th century until the 1930s, and still is one of the most common building materials found in U.S. cities.

Terra cotta, in both its glazed and unglazed versions, is sturdy and relatively inexpensive and can be molded into richly ornamented detail.

Glazed terra cotta played a significant ole in styles such as the Chicago School and Beaux-Arts architecture.

*Each month Frame Works writer Mark Miller is providing a glimpse of a local building without identifying it. Readers are challenged to note the details that make up the unique characteristics of these structures that provide the backdrop for Grand Rapids and identify them. Tweet your guess to @grmagazine using hash tag #frameworks. (Can’t wait? Answer is on page 14.)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM GEBBEN

THIS RATHER UNASSUMING brick building sits among the hilly terrain of southwest Grand Rapids. It is nestled near the Grand Rapids and Wyoming border between small residential blocks to the east and massive industrial sites to the west and south.

T he one-story classically inspired building was constructed in the mid-1920s, with a rear addition that was built in the 1960s. T his addition has a loading dock that is visible from the street. The original structure has a basic façade with only a small amount of ornamentation, punctuated with the most identifying feature of the building — its front door.

In keeping with its neo-classical aesthetic, a series of regularly spaced arched windows highlight the front of the building. While the arches of these windows are closed off today, they once provided a design feature that enlivened the building’s basic form.

The exception to this simple form is the front entry. With stairs leading up to it from the sidewalk and a projecting entry wall, the front door stands out from the rest of the building. A higher parapet makes the entry taller, effectively giving it a more pronounced street presence.

T hese massing and composition nuances,

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

An oasis for artists The visual arts program at Franciscan Life Process Center in Lowell includes a variety of workshops by renowned artists.

Charcoal drawing by Henry Yan

By Moriah Gilbert

O

n 230 acres north of Lowell there’s a getaway where aspiring artists can develop skills and celebrate the arts.

The visual arts program at the Franciscan Life Process Center

is a retreat for beginners and experienced artists alike who want to

learn from renowned instructors in a workshop setting.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY HENRY YAN (TOP RIGHT); QIANG HUANG (MIDDLE); DAVID SHEVLINO (BOTTOM)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM GEBBEN

“It’s a place providing music, art and living off the land,” said Kathy Bechtel, the center’s art director. “It’s a beautiful, idyllic setting.”

Bechtel, an artist, joined the center 15 months ago and has lined up an impressive list of workshops by artists “who live what they teach.”

T his month, Delaware artist David Shevlino will present a four-day workshop (April 8-12) on painting the figure and portrait alla prima (wet-on-wet) and the techniques used to create a direct response to the subjects.

“It’s a place providing music, art and living off the land. It’s a beautiful, idyllic setting.”

— Kathy Bechtel Qiang Huang, a native of China now living in Austin, will teach a three-day class (April 17-19) on the basics of oil painting.

Henry Yan, who teaches at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, will give a workshop on drawing techniques and tips (April 24-26).

The center, founded in 1974 by the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, offers a vari-

Still life by Qiang Huang

Adam with Mask II by David Shevlino

ety of services, including spiritual direction, counseling, music therapy, music education and retreats, in addition to the visual arts.

Bechtel hopes to add writing classes in the near future, including a workshop on how to write a short story and courses on how to write and illustrate a children’s book.

“We’re working on connecting with the arts organizations in and around Grand Rapids,” she said. “There’s so much to offer out here — a working farm and an orchard, and 230 acres of rolling hills. We really want the artists in the community to know this is a place that they can come for a small getaway to work on their art or reflect.”

For more information and to register for a workshop, visit lifeprocesscenter.org. GR

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art talk

BY JOSEPH A. BECHERER

A labor of love ONE OF GRAND RAPIDS’ greatest artistic treasures is First (Park) Congregational Church, 10 East Park Place NE, in the city’s historic center. T he Neo-Gothic brick church dates to 1868 and is among the community’s most iconic and architecturally significant religious structures.

While the church’s glorious T iffany windows offer a visually profound experience, don’t overlook the large needlepoint tapestry, entitled “Anastasis” — meaning re-building and resurrection.

It’s an intriguing commemorative work made to recognize the devastating 1988 fire at the church and its extraordinary restoration.

A committee began work on the tapestry in 1989; it was completed in 1994. Standing before this work and taking in its intricate information and symbolism, one can begin to contemplate five years of labor, thought and love.

Foundational to the work was research by committee members to find imagery and symbols in the sanctuary to ground the new work in its historical context.

T he committee then turned to Jean Smith, a regional artist celebrated for her needlepoint designs, to create the framework.

Smith worked with the committee to translate its research into a design that gave the project its foundation.

More than 5,000 hours of volunteer time was necessary to hand stitch the image. Four types of materials — cotton, wool, silk and metallic thread — and hundreds of colors were employed.

A communal project, “Anastasis” captures images and ideas specific to one physical tragedy that was overcome with resilience and hope, leading to rebirth.

The theme of the legendary creature, the Phoenix, is central to

THINGS TO CONSIDER: > Call the church office at 459-3203 to schedule a time to visit the tapestry. The staff are gracious hosts and eager to share their artistic legacy.

> While examining the work, take it in at a distance and try to read the overall image. Step closer and inspect the vast array of images and details. Also, note all the evidence of 5,000 hours of labor and love. > If time permits, ask to see the main sanctuary and take in the architectural detail and glorious Tiffany windows.

the tapestry. According to tradition, the Phoenix — a symbol of resurrection and renewal — after collapsing on a funeral pyre does not die but is instantly reborn from the ashes.

In this work, the Phoenix is a part of the blackened relics of the 1988 fire. Architectural details from the sanctuary are apparent, as are the pipe organ and aforementioned T iffany windows. But in the tradition of medieval art befitting a neo-gothic structure, many symbols convey a grander story.

Flowers like the iris are symbolic of the presence of God and a symbol of the passion, death and resurrection of Christ. While the featured mountains are visual reminders of heavenly strength and majesty, the plethora of animals and birds are visual shorthand for the wonders of life on earth.

“Anastasis” is a remarkable project, one of hope and one of promise.

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

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

“Anastasis” captures images and ideas specific to one physical tragedy that was overcome with resilience and hope, leading to rebirth.

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BY MARTY PRIMEAU PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

When the weather turns warm, it’s time to entertain in the backyard.

Outdoor Oases

W

WHEN STEVE AND TERRI MARSH bought their Byron Center home in 1990, they dreamed of a lush, secluded yard ideal for entertaining family and friends.

What they got was a field of weeds with zero privacy.

So Steve got busy.

He terraced the yard, installed a rose arbor and moved a ton of dirt to create a bowl-shaped patio surrounded by trees, shrubs and flowers.

A decade later, it’s a paradise for entertaining. When the weather turns warm, the Marshes — like many other West Michigan couples — welcome guests to their backyard for everything from small gatherings to big celebrations.

“Steve and I both grew up in families that had the go-to houses for parties — birthdays, holidays, pool parties — so it seems natural for us to entertain,” Terri said.

Backyard gatherings also give the Marshes a chance to share their “outdoor oasis.”

Of course it takes more than pretty landscaping to throw a successful backyard party. But those folks who embrace the outdoors say it’s worth all the planning and organization.

Candy Elisevich grew up in West Virginia where her family spent a lot of time outside in the woods.

“My husband and I have always taken our four children camping, so we’ve always thought of the outside as fun.”

When she and her family moved here from the east side of Michigan five years ago, they looked for a house with a spacious backyard.

Dr. Kost Elisevich is co-chair of the Neurosciences Medical Group at Spectrum Health, and each fall the couple throws a party for the entire department — about 150 people.

“I wanted a yard large enough that guests could move from one point to another,” she said.

The couple expanded the fire pit area to

Terri and Steve Marsh transformed a barren backyard into a lush oasis, ideal for entertaining. Here are some of their outdoor decorating tips for a successful party: • Cluster seating options and use cushions and pillows to keep it cozy.

• Make sure to have places to put drinks down.

• Use flowers from your yard for arrangements.

• Use colorful serving plates and trays. (We used Fiestaware.)

• Buy colorful fabric to make a tablecloth and buy extra for basket liners.

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Clockwise from top: Jodi and Kirby Watson revamped their Heritage Hill backyard using brick pavers, rocks and plants to create separate areas for entertaining. Kay Maitner, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway, and husband Mike, like to unwind with friends in their spacious backyard. The Marshes set up a bar with beer, wine and water so guests can help themselves throughout the evening.

Opposite page: Terri and Steve Marsh set their table with Fiestaware and colorful table linens and pillows.

Having gorgeous surroundings is nice, but the only way to guarantee a flawless outdoor party is to plan ahead — choose a theme, create a menu, banish bugs, organize seating and decorate. accommodate seating for 25 people. When they throw a big bash, Candy sets up seating areas throughout the yard — “I even bring out a sofa.”

Jodi and Kirby Watson also wanted a yard that would fit a large number of guests.

So the Heritage Hill couple hired a landscape designer who removed grass and created four distinct “rooms” using brick pavers, rocks and lush plants. T here’s a welcoming area, a place where guests can help themselves to drinks and finger foods, and two additional spaces for gathering and eating.

“As we thought about those ‘rooms,’ we considered how to maximize the plants and trees, and we added water features to cut traffic noise and mask conversations,” Jodi said.

She agrees the fire pit is a key area for seating.

“Even when it’s not on, that’s where people gravitate.”

Kay and Mike Maitner’s backyard was nothing but woods and grass 14 years ago before they cleaned out the scrub to create a half-acre of garden with scenic paths and party spaces.

“Mike built a screened-in room for entertaining,” Kay said. “It’s just a great place to have people over for a glass of wine after a long day.”

Having gorgeous surroundings is nice, but the only way to guarantee a flawless outdoor party is to plan ahead — choose a theme, create a menu, banish bugs, organize seating and decorate.

Wendy Finch, interior designer and owner of Stylecoach Studio, helps clients create an atmosphere for any event.

Her main advice is to have everything ready the day before the party.

“I know what food I’m serving, what serving dish to put it in and where to put the dish.”

Working ahead eliminates a lot of last minute problems, she said. “If something goes wrong, you’ll have time to fix it.”

Elisevich said she does a lot of prep work, from cooking her favorite dishes to decorating the yard and setting the table.

All that advance work allows her to enjoy her party. “When people arrive, I want to participate.”

Ditto for Watson, who admits she’s so obsessed with organization, she prepares a party spreadsheet.

“I try to set out all the foundational things the night before — the cups and plates, anything guests will need.”

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A signature drink is a great way to start the party.

Steve Marsh makes Tomato Shooters using a Jamie Oliver recipe. “He was preparing soup, but it makes a great shooter and tastes like a Bloody Mary. Jamie suggested adding a slice of red beet to give the water some color, but I like it clear for the element of surprise.”

Tomato Shooters Roughly chop enough tomatoes to fill a blender three-fourths of the way.

Add: ½ cup vodka or to taste (optional) Large handful of basil ¼ cup grated fresh horseradish 1 tablespoon vinegar 2 large garlic cloves Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy) Blend at high speed and adjust seasonings as needed.

Line a large bowl with four layers of cheesecloth and pour the entire contents into the bowl. Tie the corners of the cheesecloth and hang it over the bowl to drain. You can put it in the fridge overnight and get a very clear liquid, or you can squeeze and speed up the process. The more you squeeze, the more color you get.

Chill and pour into shooter glasses. Garnish with anything that goes with a Bloody Mary. I skewered a cherry tomato and a mozzarella ball wrapped with a blanched basil leaf: Take a large basil leaf and blanch for about a minute, then wrap around the mozzarella. It should stick to the cheese and itself. It’s easiest to do one at a time; you can adjust the blanching time as you go.

spoil is the last to go out.

Choosing a theme helps pull things together.

Elisevich has done a variety of parties pairing food and beverages. One year her theme was Wines of the World.

“T here were four countries — Spain, France, Italy and the U.S. — and we set up a station for each with finger foods and wines.”

Other themes have included Michigan Breweries — pairing food and local beers — and Islands of the World.

“We always put banners over each station so guests can check out the options,” she said. “It works out beautifully.”

Hostesses say it’s important to have enough seating for guests to eat — and a place to put drinks and plates down.

It’s also helpful to create a signature beverage or cocktail people can drink when they arrive. T hen throughout the party, guests can help themselves to wine, beer and water.

One essential item for any outdoor party, large or small, is eliminating bugs before guests arrive. Most hostesses say there are

lots of sprays and foggers on the market to control mosquitoes and other flying pests.

“I like to put six to eight citronella candles around the circumference about two hours ahead of time and I blow them out when guests arrive,” Elisevich said. “Plus I have insect repellent that guests can use.”

To make sure everything goes smoothly on the big day, some hostesses say they like to have helpers. Some hire a caterer or a party planner; others rely on friends and family to replenish the buffet table, keep ice buckets full and clear dirty plates.

Elisevich says she found a local guy to be her party security. “Once the party starts, if something comes up, I tell people to find Jim.” There’s always a moment once the party starts when you know that you “invited the exact right people, or guests are not meshing,” Watson said.

She chuckled. “We’ve gotten better at that. In fact, a lot of great friendships have come from people meeting people at these parties.”

And that’s really what it’s all about. GR

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Whether they’re commuting to work, competing in races, riding long-distances or biking for fun with family and friends, local cyclists can find support at every turn.

GR's bicycling community

By Marla R. Miller Photography by Johnny Quirin

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G “It’s really great to see the transformation that Grand Rapids is making.

I see a lot more people riding bikes and commuting than I did a few years ago.”

— George Raimer

eorge Raimer’s journey from hip replacement surgery to logging more than 15,000 miles on his bicycle as a regular commuter shows the transformative power of pedaling.

He’s also lost more than 50 pounds in the process and become an advocate for the health benefits of cycling.

Raimer took up bicycling — on a Schwinn mountain bike someone gave him — as a form of mental and physical therapy after his hip surgery in January 2009.

“I started out just riding down to my parent’s house about a mile away,” he said.

George Raimer “I’d say it’s part of a healthy lifestyle now. I feel so much better. I would say, being in my mid-50s, I feel better than I did when I was in my early 40s.”

Raimer recreationally rides the paved bike trails in eastern Kent and Ionia counties and occasionally enters races, but most of his miles have come from commuting.

He rides two or three days a week — about 50 miles roundtrip — from his home east of Lowell to work on Monroe Avenue in Grand Rapids. The route takes him along M-21 and other busy streets, so he’s grateful for shoulders and the city’s new bike lanes.

“I prefer roads with bike lanes and use them whenever I get the chance,” he said.

“It’s really great to see the transformation that Grand Rapids is making. I see a lot more people riding bikes and commuting than I did a few years ago.”

PART OF DAILY LIFE T he city has an active bicycle community that stays connected through bicycle shops, races, group rides and other events.

T he Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition’s work and the city’s efforts to add bike lanes over the last five years have been a boon to all cyclists, said T om T ilma, the coalition’s executive director.

The city will have 70 miles of on-street bike lanes by this summer, with plans to reach 100 miles.

“Cycling has been hot in Grand Rapids

for a long time,” he said. “Everything you could want is here. But we’re a very autocentric society. Walking, riding a bike or taking the bus has not been the first choice for many people to get around. Now we have helped fill that gap to make cycling part of daily life.”

The cycling demographics are as diverse as the reasons people ride, from 20-yearold college students and bearded hipsters to competitive racers and the 75-year-old dressed in full spandex.

People take up biking for health, environmental and economic reasons as well as to challenge themselves and quell their competitive drive. But there’s also a segment of recreational bicyclists who enjoy the beauty of vintage models, or who ride as a way to be social and see the city or scenic rail and river trails at a leisurely pace.

Research shows millennials and the creative class want to live in cities where they can walk or bike to work, the grocery store and other hot spots, Tilma said.

T ilma rides to work when he can and says he’s noticed vehicles don’t follow as close as they used to and give him more room when they pass. He’s also a casual mountain biker and gravel road rider.

“I ride my bike because it’s fun and I need the exercise,” he said. “I really feel privileged in my daily work that I get to promote improvements that are making our city cooler and healthier and more sustainable. I see people now who are riding their bike slowly to the grocery store and take home three bags of groceries on their bikes.”

Regular commuters such as Raimer worry about distracted drivers. He said it’s important to wear bright reflective clothing when riding in the dark, and he always has lights on his bike and helmet so he’s visible.

Bicycling has transformed Raimer’s life in the last six years, and he touts the benefits for mind, body and spirit. He started to increase his distance by riding with coworkers and began commuting to and from work on his own. He also does mounAPRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 47

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tain and fatbike riding and endurance racing and completed a tour of the White Pine Trail two years ago.

“I’m always biking against myself,” he said. “It’s fun to see what the human body can do.”

He owns five bikes now and commutes year-round, using carbide-studded tires in the winter. This past winter, he had a blast riding his fatbike with studded tires on the icy rail trails — where people can hardly walk.

“Both physically and emotionally, biking is great for you,” he said. “I’d like to encourage everybody to get out and get fit; they’d be amazed at how good they feel. It’s really life changing.”

A TEST OF STAMINA Endurance racer Danielle Musto prefers to test her skills and stamina on off-road terrain, once riding for 24 hours in rain during a race in British Columbia.

Musto started racing mountain bikes a decade ago and won the USAC 24-hour National Championship in the solo singlespeed category in 2011. She placed fourth at the 24-hour solo World Championships in Scotland last October. That race involved 30,000 feet of climbing on mountain bike trails, riding over dirt, rocks and roots, and 24 hours of continuous racing with very few breaks.

“It’s extremely technical,” she said. “I love seeing how far I can push myself and I love riding throughout the day and as it slowly turns to dusk. It’s a really fun atmosphere racing at night; everything kind of

changes. At the end of the night, there are times you want to quit, everything hurts.

You have to push yourself as fast as you can go for as long as you can possibly go.”

T hey’re often hiding out on mountain bike trails, but Grand Rapids has another group of cyclists who enjoy the thrill of competition and testing their physical limits.

Endurance mountain bikers, fatbike riders and cyclocross racers travel across the state, throughout the Midwest and even the nation to compete. Many train on mountain bike trails and gravel roads in the area.

“I love doing women’s clinics, getting more women on bikes.

It’s good for everybody’s health.

It’s really fun, makes them confident, feel independent.”

— Jill Martindale Jill Martindale, avid fatbike and endurance racer, practices at some of the local places open to the public: Luton Park, Merrell T rail, Cannonsburg State Game Area and Cannonsburg Ski Hill. During the winter months, many racers turn to fatbiking and ride the groomed Merrell T rail or rail trails.

Koetsier’s Greenhouse hosts a T hursday T hrowdown fatbike time trial in the winter. Fatbikes have wider tires for biking on snow or sand.

“During the winter, fatbikes are so much fun,” Martindale said. “Fatbikes are definitely getting more and more popular.”

Martindale works at Grand Rapids

Bicycle Co.’s Ada shop and started longdistance riding with her family. She took up mountain biking in 2011 and competitive racing in 2013, along with bike packing around Lake Michigan in 2011, Lake Superior in 2012 and Lake Ontario in 2013.

Martindale, 27, quickly took to the sport with the help of Musto, her coach, who has sponsors to help support her racing.

Musto’s now husband introduced her to competitive cycling 10 years ago. He did cross country races and she would hand off water and cheer him on. After a ride around Reeds Lake, Musto was hooked and decided she wanted to be “awesome” at it. She began mountain biking and training for races.

“I started doing endurance racing — 100-mile races, 24-hour races — that’s where I discovered where my strengths were,” she said. “It didn’t come easy at first.

I have a coach down in North Carolina and a strength coach. There was a big learning curve, but I was super-determined.”

Musto, 37, helps with social media for Grand Rapids Bicycle Co. and leads ladies’ rides. She also will head a kids’ mountain biking team for GRBC this spring.

The two women competed in the Great Lakes Fat Bike Series last winter, with Musto taking first and Martindale finishing second overall female. T hey also participated on a four-woman team this winter and traveled throughout the Midwest racing and teaching clinics.

“Danielle kind of took me under her wing,” Martindale said. “She’s been training me, taking me to races, helping me

Creating a cycling plan West Michigan has had a strong contingent of fitness-focused cyclists, road and distance riders and competitive mountain bikers for years, but cycling for transportation and errands as a daily part of life is growing in Grand Rapids due to a dedicated effort of advocates and city officials to make the city more bicycle friendly.

Grand Rapids has gone from virtually none to 63 miles of bike lanes in the last five years. City officials plan to complete another seven miles by June and then embark on a more comprehensive cycling plan to add more buffered, or protected, bike lanes, said Chris Zull, the city’s traffic safety manager.

“The biking community loves them, of course, and we are seeing more and more people biking,” he said. “The numbers keep going up and up, which is great. Buses and bikes are interacting. All Silver Line buses

have bike racks on the front.”

The new infrastructure is a great step in helping the city become a “cool city” and advance its designation by the American League of Bicyclists as a Bicycle Friendly Community from Bronze to Silver, said Tom Tilma, executive director of the Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition.

Nearly 40 million Americans bicycled in 2012 and bike commuting increased more than 61 percent from 2000 to 2012, according to the ALB. There’s growing proof that giving cyclists room on the road and connecting routes is a key component of a healthy, livable community. Several city departments, concerned cycling advocates and groups have collaborated in recent years to make bicycle lanes a reality, including the coalition.

“Our focus has been on cycling, not just

for recreation but also for transportation,” Tilma said. “An on-street bicycle network was the missing piece.”

Creating a culture that accommodates bicycles is also about economic development, quality of life and attracting millennials and the creative class, Tilma said.

It’s also good for the environment, tourism, encouraging an active lifestyle and social equity for all residents. There’s also the economics: Some people commute to save money or cannot afford a vehicle and rely on a bicycle for transportation.

The coalition’s Room to Ride campaign wants to see 100 miles of bike lanes and more buffered lanes.

“We’re hoping a new comprehensive cycling plan will lay out goals and standards that will improve the design and maintenance of that on-street network — that lanes are connected as much as possible,”

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prepare for them. I love doing women’s clinics, getting more women on bikes. It’s good for everybody’s health. It’s really fun, makes them confident, feel independent.

Kids get more confident in themselves and feel good about themselves.”

Martindale has entered several other races and won or finished near the top.

She placed fourth in the Lumberjack 100, which is part of the National Ultra Endurance series, and finished second in the 12 hours of Nite Nationals in Auburn, Ala., last year.

When she’s not racing or recovering, Martindale commutes on her bike between downtown and Ada and out to some of the mountain bike trails. She said many racers spend their weekends traveling to various events.

“You’ll see the same people showing up and you become friends with a lot of people,” Martindale said. “T here’s a lot of heckling, a lot of camaraderie, a lot of competitive people out there racing.”

Another popular racing circuit — cyclocross — takes place in the fall in city and county parks and other locations in West Michigan. Racers ride on grass, dirt and pavement with bikes that look like road bikes. Some people use mountain bikes.

The courses include forced dismounts and man-made obstacles that racers must run over or up and over. T he course is visible from one or two vantage points, making it a spectator-friendly event.

Event promoter Rick Plite formed Kisscross Events LLC about a decade ago to organize and promote the series. Some

races attract up to 200 participants and vocal hecklers and supporters.

He’s also the promoter of the Lumberjack 100 mountain bike race in Manistee National Forest every June. T he Founders Barry-Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race in Hastings, the largest gravel road race in the world, is another popular event that kicks off the riding season every March.

“T hat’s really exploding right now,” he said. “We had 2,800 people in March last year. That’s how many people want to ride gravel roads.”

FOR THE FUN OF IT On the other end of the spectrum, many people enjoy riding in groups for exercise, social interaction and a safer way to travel in the city.

T here are a variety of cycling clubs, social rides and biking pub crawls in Greater Grand Rapids. Many are organized through local bike shops, but one of the less formal, less competitive clubs is the Grand Rapids Vintage Bicycle Club. T he group attracts a lot of attention due to the bright, retro colors, shiny chrome embellishments,

Tilma said. “We also would like to identify the best locations for protected bike lanes.”

The city’s goal is to reach 100 miles, but the next phase will involve extensive planning and construction beyond signage and pavement markings, Zull said.

In 2010, the city started adding bicycle lanes on city streets where possible as part of its plan to create an urban bike network.

It allotted money in the budget, but the lanes were added at a relatively nominal cost by restriping and installing signs during construction projects.

When complete, the network will provide linkages between roads, paved bike paths and greenways, mountain bike trails and regional trail networks.

“We’re going to keep doing bike lanes going off the map we’ve already developed, but that map is going to mature into a plan,” Zull said. “We identified many roads where

we could retro fit bike lanes into travel lanes without a lot of negative impact. One of the biggest (concerns) is parking. We didn’t have to take out parking to put in the bike lanes, but most of those opportunities have been used up. This next phase is going to be more intentional.”

The city also received a $485,000 bicycle education grant in 2013 through the Michigan Department of Transportation to focus on safety and education and promote a “share the road” culture.

Planners and consultants continue to work on a comprehensive bicycle safety education campaign. Tilma serves on the committee and said the coalition has been hired to deliver some of the education programs.

The goal of the three-year grant is to provide education and training on the operation of a bicycle in traffic and to increase

the knowledge of the responsibilities of bicyclists and motorists. The first step was to analyze crash data reports to identify the demographics to target, Zull said.

There’s a consensus that an education and safety campaign is an important next step in improving motorist-bicyclist interactions and advancing the city’s cycling culture.

Regular road riders have said there seems to be a lack of knowledge on the part of drivers and riders regarding traffic laws and right-of-way.

“We think that, statistically, cycling is a very safe activity,” Tilma said. “The more people who are out there riding, the safer it’s going to be. We all want to reduce crashes and we encourage everyone to drive and cycle defensively.”

Colorburst Bike Tour

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Ted Oostendorp of the Grand Rapids Vintage Bicycle Club, one of several cycling clubs in Greater Grand Rapids, restores a headlight on a vintage Schwinn Cruiser.

funky accessories and handlebars, and craftsmanship of the bikes.

While the club formed around the love of vintage makes and models, founder Ted Oostendorp said it’s as much about getting together to be social and nostalgic for a simpler time when bikes had one or two speeds and life wasn’t so rushed.

“T here is a segment of people who like the simplicity of the vintage bicycles,” he said. “T hey’re very comfortable, leisurely bicycles to take to the grocery store or ride to the park, and these bicycles are really quite beautiful.”

Oostendorp’s interest in vintage bikes started as a family hobby several years ago when his bicycle with gears was stolen. He found two old Schwinn bicycles in need of repair and restored them to ride around the neighborhood.

His two sons also took an interest in them, neighbors took notice, random people started asking about them, and his garage became a workshop. He put an ad on Craigslist to garner interest from others, and four guys showed up. From there, the club was born about five years ago.

Oostendorp’s email list for the group includes about 60 people, but the Grand Rapids Vintage Bicycle Club Facebook page has more than 600 likes and attracts interest from collectors across the globe.

T he club is more of an informal social group, open to anyone who wants to ride at a leisurely pace and show off their bike.

Members gather monthly for a group ride,

which starts from a local establishment, spring through fall.

T he group is made up of all kinds of people: college-age kids, families, collectors, serious riders and people who like working on the bikes. Several club members enjoy getting together to tinker, make repairs or give a neglected cruiser new life. A core group meets informally to plan events, swap parts, ride to a nearby pub, or sit and chat about ways to customize their bike.

“It’s certainly a fun experience,” Oostendorp said. “It’s a very family-oriented activity. It’s a very peaceful experience.”

The best way to connect with the group is through the Facebook page. Outings typically draw between 10 and 40 riders,

“There is a segment of people who like the simplicity of the vintage bicycles. They’re very comfortable, leisurely bicycles to take to the grocery store or ride to the park, and these bicycles are really quite beautiful.”

— Ted Oostendorp

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depending on the weather and time of year.

There’s a kickoff spring bridge ride and a fall ArtPrize ride.

For Raimer, joining the Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club has been a great way to meet fellow bicycle enthusiasts and learn about different types of bicycles, races and group rides, along with participating in free time trials every Monday night at Ada Park.

T he club, organized in 1970, aims to promote fun, safe cycling for all through rides, races, tours and advocacy.

“In a cycling club like that, you learn a lot of things about safety, how to set up your bike, be on a bike comfortably and not injure yourself,” he said.

For those who don’t like to mountain bike or road ride, there is a strong connection of mixed-use and rail trails throughout Grand Rapids and surrounding townships and counties where people can ride at a casual pace and take in the scenery.

Many trails, including Kent Trails, Reeds Lake T rail, Ada and Cascade T ownship trails, Fred Meijer River Valley Rail T rails and Riverside Park north to Rockford and the White Pine T rail, run along rivers and through parks, making them great for beginners, families and weekend outings.

Raimer learned about the area’s railtrail systems by talking to someone at a festival in Saranac, and now he’s vice chair of Friends of Fred Meijer River Valley Rail Trails.

“I do really like the rail trails because you’re away from traffic, it’s good for families and groups, and you don’t have to worry about the pollution from the cars or being hit by one,” he said. “It is real scenic, especially the Grand River Valley Rail T rail. It runs through the Ionia Recreation Area and it’s not uncommon to see deer or turkeys or other wildlife, even eagles along the Grand River.”

A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY Raimer is a good example of someone who didn’t know much about bicycling or the cycling community when he first got into it. He started asking questions, researching information on the Internet, talking to other riders and just getting out there.

“I really didn’t know anything about … riding more than a couple of miles at a time before I started riding with one of the guys at our shop up to Rockford and back,” he said.

“You can start without much knowledge and you don’t need a really expensive bike.

I started out on a bike that was given to me.”

T he Grand Rapids area has nearly 20 retail bike shops, which offer a wealth of information.

“Most all of the local bike shops are great about getting people set up on bikes to make sure they are in the best position,” Raimer

said. “If you are comfortable on a bike, you can ride all day long.”

Whether for pleasure or sport, cycling can be an expensive hobby. Not everyone can afford a high-end bicycle or pay for regular repairs, so two bike shops in the city — Boston Square Community Bikes and The Spoke Folks — operate with the mission to make cycling accessible and affordable to all.

T he Spoke Folks, 221 Logan St. SW, opened shop in 2012 and became a nonprofit in 2014. Bike tools and repairs can be expensive, so the organization offers a collaborative work space for people to come in,

Endurance racer Danielle Musto has been racing mountain bikes for more than a decade.

rent tools and work on their bicycles. It also holds classes on bike maintenance, how to ride legally on the road and other topics.

Both Boston Square Community Bikes and T he Spoke Folks refurbish and sell used, quality bikes.

“We did 500 plus repairs last year and sold 120 bikes and had 52 new memberships,” said Jay Niewiek, executive director of The Spoke Folks. “We help people get on bikes. Our mission is to make sure everyone in Grand Rapids has a safe and reliable bike and feels empowered. We are a shop for all cyclists, whether they race professionally across the state, use a bike as a means of transportation, or don’t have a valid driver’s license and have $2 in their pocket.”

Niewiek, 30, and his wife made the decision to sell one car and commute via bicycle as much as possible.

“We don’t want to spend $20,000 on a car or gas,” Niewiek said. “We want to find other ways to slow down and enjoy life.

T hat’s why that 20 to 30 age generation is asking, ‘How bikeable is the city where I want to work and live?’ … T hey want walkable, bikeable communities.”

Other organizations, such as the West Michigan Mountain Biking Alliance and West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition, offer resources on mountain biking and multi-use trails in the area. Many racers and hobbyists help maintain area trails as part of the West Michigan Mountain Biking Alliance.

“There’s a lot of community involvement to maintain the trails,” Musto said. “During storms, trees will go down, volunteers will rake the leaves and trim the brush,” she said. “I actually think, through all of my travels, that West Michigan has this enormous, really welcoming cycling community. We have awesome trails for training, and I love that I can just ride out my front door and get to a single track.”

Martindale agrees, saying it’s easy for beginners to get started.

“It’s easy to hop on a mountain bike and get out there on a trail,” she said. “There’s a lot of really nice people out there who will help you when you’re out there riding.”

The Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition, a nonprofit policy and advocacy organization, evolved after a bicycle summit in 2009 brought together more than 200 people who wanted to help Metro Grand Rapids create safe, convenient opportunities for bicycling.

T he GGRBC organizes an Active Commute Week in May and two large fundraisers that have garnered interest from national partners: Climate Ride Midwest and New Belgium Brewing’s Clips Beer & Film Tour.

The coalition also heads up the bicycletraffic counting program based on a national model. Volunteers go to three locations in the city and collect usage data. T he counts are conducted in September, in the same week, at the same times and same locations every year.

Some promising data from the counts: Bike traffic increased by 57 percent between 2011 and 2013; in the East Hills location, a cyclist passed by every minute during rush hour.

“T he indications are cycling as part of daily life is growing,” Tilma said. “On-street infrastructure benefits all cyclists — those riding for recreation and fitness and those biking for training. There’s a feeling it’s safer to ride on local streets.”

GR

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Culinary pioneers Jeremy and Jamie Paquin have opened a Neapolitan style pizzeria.

Pine Hog Pizza (Pine Hog was the logging term for a wealthy lumber baron — this is a rich and creamy pizza.)

Use your favorite pizza dough.

Spread with basil pesto and crème fraiche.

Top with: Fresh ricotta cheese Fresh mozzarella Roasted red peppers Shaved red onion Drizzle with roasted garlic oil. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes, fresh cracked black pepper and a little sea salt.

Bake in a very hot oven according to dough instructions or, if crust is prebaked, until cheese is bubbling.

Remove from oven and zest a fresh lemon over the top.

C

hefs Jeremy and Jamie Paquin are both classically trained, culinaryschool-graduate chefs with a passion for fresh-sourced seasonal ingredients.

The married duo relocated from Houston to Michigan almost a decade ago to be near relatives as they started their family.

They settled in Muskegon, renovated a historic downtown building and, in 2008, opened Mia & Grace, an intimate, upscale and artsy, farm-to-table bistro and bakery.

Now the Paquins have partnered with friends Tami and Logan Pitts to launch a second restaurant in the building called whistle punk, serving wood-fired Neapolitan pizza.

“We wanted to pay homage to Muskegon’s heritage as a lumber town,” Jeremy explained of the lower-case name, woodburning focus and such pizza menu items as T imber Beast, Widowmaker and Axle Grease.

“A ‘whistle punk’ was an affectionate

term given to the newest member of a logging camp whose starting job was to signal commands to the donkey engineer,” he said.

Just as they do at Mia & Grace, the Paquins make practically everything from scratch.

“We’re not a big-box pizza place where everything comes from a supplier,” Jamie said, saying they spent a lot of time refining dough recipes and developing their sauces, which are made fresh every day.

Sausage is also made in-house, along with their own cheeses, while the fresh vegetables and meats are sourced from local farmers and friends.

“It’s nice because it’s the same philosophy we use at Mia & Grace, but since it’s a singular product, we can put so much attention into all of the littlest details,” she added.

Because of the emphasis on farmsupplied ingredients, pizza options will change frequently throughout the year to accommodate the best of local farms’ harvests.

“T he best ingredients are right here in West Michigan, and we are sourcing as much as we possibly can locally,” Jeremy said. “Besides the incomparable quality aspect, it’s also about keeping money right here in the community while sustaining and supporting our local farmers.”

T he interior décor echoes the logging theme. T he barn wood on the walls was found in Indiana by Muskegon artist John Hopson, while other local artists created artwork for the 23-seat space, which also provides takeout and delivery.

T he pizzeria includes a mobile-oven food truck that sets up at the city’s popular downtown Farmers Market from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays throughout summer and fall. (A breakfast favorite with the farmers market crowd is house-made sausage and gravy pizza topped with a fried egg.)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Muskegon’s wood-fired pizza

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The food truck is also available for private parties and is used to stage tantalizing “pop-up” events around the city.

Since the Paquins own their city-center T hird Street building, they were able to expand into the space adjacent to Mia & Grace to accommodate whistle punk’s evening and weekend pizza service.

“It allows us to share the kitchen and staff with Mia & Grace, even though the restaurants are separate operations entirely independent of each other,” Jamie said.

“Everything here has been a complete labor of love by everyone involved. We

totally renovated the space, and everything inside was built by hand.”

T hat includes the wood-burning pizza oven, which came in 60 pieces and took Jeremy and several friends almost a week to assemble and another week to construct its ventilation system.

“T he fire department and city of Muskegon worked with us to make sure we had everything we needed when we needed it.

— JULIE BURCH They’ve been great.”

“The best ingredients are right here in West Michigan, and we are sourcing as much as we possibly can locally.”

— Jeremy Paquin

> JAMIE AND JEREMY PAQUIN Title: Co-oweners/Chefs

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Location: whistle punk, 1133 Third St., Muskegon

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

dining listings

A GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS IN GRAND RAPIDS AND BEYOND

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

Restaurants are included by virtue of overall quality. We have created symbols to area restaurant amenities, which are defined in a legend at the end of this listing (page 73).

nology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. L, D $-$$

NEW AMERICAN Upscale, contemporary cooking including ethnic twists on familiar standbys.

combinations. Open 10-4 Sun. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 451-4779. electriccheetah.com. B (Sun only), L, D ¢-$

Marco New American Bistro — French country casual offers small, medium and large plates for dinner fare; salads, sandwiches and mains for lunch. Full bar. T ake-out menu. Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. L, D $-$$

Ada PourHouse Gastropub — Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with twist on comfort food. Salads, sandwiches and entrees, including fish and steak. Craft beers and wine.

Open daily. 6748 E Fulton St, Ada, 920-7941, Facebook. B (Sun brunch only), L, D $-$$

Gilly’s At The B.O.B. — Hand-crafted microbrews paired with seasonal fare. Tavern small plates, seafood and more. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com.

D $-$$

Olives — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. eatatolives.com. L, D ¢-$

Bar Divani — European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, 7749463. bardivani.com. L, D $-$$

➧Ganders — Former Spinnaker has new look and new menu featuring Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. 4747 28th St SE (Hilton GR Airport), 957-1111. hilton grandrapids.com, Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$

One Trick Pony Grill & Taproom — Eclectic menu with vegetarian, Mexican and European cuisines. Dine alfresco on street-front patio. Closed Sun. 136 E Fulton St, 235-7669. onetrick.biz. L, D ¢-$

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

Graydon’s Crossing — Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily.

1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydons crossing.com. L, D $

FReserve — Wine bar offers extensive bythe-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr. com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

Blue Water Grill — Entrees include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection.

Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Open daily.

5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmore collection.com/bluewater.php. L, D $-$$

Green Well Gastro Pub — Menu features comfort fare with a flare, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draught beers, many from area microbreweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, 808-3566. thegreenwell.com. L, D $-$$

– Lounge — Soups, salads, sandwichCitysen es, burgers and small-plate creations. Happy Hour daily 4-7 pm. CityFlats Hotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, (866) 609-CIT Y. cityflatshotel. ¢-$ com/grandrapids. B, L, D Cork — Lively lounge, contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads.

Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Watermark Country Club, 1600 Galbraith SE, 949-0570. redwaterrestaurantgroup.com. $-$$ L, D Cygnus 27 — Stunning view from the 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza. Menu features Mediterranean and Latin influences.

Sun brunch Labor Day to Mother’s Day. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6425. amwaygrand. $$ com. D (Tue-Sat) Electric Cheetah — Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative

Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily at 11 am. 111 Courtland Dr, Rockford, 8633300. grilloneeleven.com and Facebook.

L, D $-$$ OGrove — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course offerings. Vegan menu available. Open daily. 919 Cherry St SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. D $$ Hall Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner (pizza after 4 p.m.). Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. B, L, D ¢-$ The Heritage — GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan.

Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open T ue-Fri during school year. Applied T ech-

Rockwell Republic — Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Open daily. 45 S Division Ave, 608-6465 or 551-3563. rockwellsrepublic.com. L, D $-$$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with varied menu including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch.

Open daily. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection.com/roses.php. L, D $ Schnitz Ada Grill — Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Happy hour 3-6.

Closed Sun. 597 Ada Dr, Ada, 682-4660. schnitzdeli.com, Facebook. L, D ¢-$$ Six.One.Six — Innovative cuisine sources local ingredients in a cosmopolitan setting.

Al fresco dining on Jdek overlooking Grand River. Open daily. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1500. ilove616.com. B, L, D $-$$ SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual pub setting with eclectic menu including vegan and glutenfree. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrees (available after 4). Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com.

L, D $ Tavern On The Square — T apas-style fare

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plus house specialties. Patio seating. Happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. tavernonthesq.com. L, D ¢-$ Terra GR — Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. B (brunch Sat $-$$ and Sun), L, D Wealthy Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner (pizza available after 4). Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbakery.com.

B, L, D ¢-$

choices, dinner entrees include Mexican.

Open daily. 1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641; 2844 East Beltline Ave NE, 363-1723. brandywine gr.com. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) ¢-$ Brann’s Steakhouse & Sports Grille — Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. See website for eight West Michigan locations. branns.com. L, D $

Honey Creek Inn

The Winchester — Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space. Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winche stergr.com. L, D ¢-$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Bostwick Lake Inn — Menu includes steaks, pork, fish, chicken, mac and cheese, pizzas, sandwiches, soups and salads. Large deck.

Open daily. 8521 Belding Rd, Rockford, 8747290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. php. L (weekends), D $-$$ Boulder Creek Restaurant — Boulder Creek Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golfcourse views from inside or deck. See website for seasonal hours. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, (616) 363-1330, ext 2. boulder ¢-$ creekgolfclub.com. L, D Brandywine — Café atmosphere. Extensive breakfast menu, lunches with vegetarian

Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turnof-century building. Comfort food, woodfired pizzas. Full bar plus T he BOB’s House of Brews beers. Al fresco dining on patio.

Open daily at 11:30 am. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 897-8523. thegilmorecollection.com/flat $-$$ river.php. L, D

Forest Hills Inn — Casual neighborhood favorite with a broad menu, excellent pizza.

Closed Sun. 4609 Cascade Rd SE, 949-4771. $ foresthillsinn.com. B, L, D

Acorn Grille at Thousand Oaks — Blend of traditional and innovative cuisine, presented in handsome dining room with golf course views. Open daily in season. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr, 447-7750. thousandoaksgolf.com.

L, D $$

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

FireRock Grille — Country club dining or cook your own filet, shrimp or ahi tuna on a 500-degree stone. Open daily. Sun brunch 10-2. Stonewater Country Club, 7177 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 656-9898. firerockgrille.com. $ L, D

Fleetwood Diner — Extensive diner menu with ribs a specialty, some Mediterranean and Mexican entrees. Open 6:30 for breakfast (8 am-4 pm Sun). Outdoor patio. 2222 44th St SE, 281-2300. fleetwoodbarandgrill. ¢-$ com. B, L, D

CLASSIC AMERICAN Restaurants and diners serving traditional dishes popular across the country.

Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant — Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and desserts; dinner menu too. No alcohol. Open daily. 2650 East Beltline Ave SE (Centerpointe Mall), 956-7901; 710 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurants.com.

B, L, D $

steaks, seafood, pasta and more at The Elks at Highlands Golf Club. 2715 Leonard St NW, $-$$ 453-2454. highlandsgr.com. L, D

Fry Daddy’s Fresh Fish — Fried fish, wingdings, walleye, orange roughy, catfish, blue gill, perch, smelt and shrimp, by the pound or in baskets with fries. Also to go. Closed Mon. T rinity Plaza, 1720 44th St SE, Kentwood, ¢-$ 455-FISH. Facebook. L, D

Bull’s Head Tavern — Large selection of appetizers. Entrees include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and sandwiches. Closed Sun. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 4543580. thebullsheadtavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

Grand V illa — Prime rib, seafood, complete salad bar. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 538-1360. villadungeon. com. L, D $ Great Lakes Shipping Co. — Beef, seafood and beyond in dockside motif. Patio open in summer. Lounge opens 3 pm. 2455 Burton St SE, 949-9440. greatlakesshippingcompany. com. D $-$$

Charley’s Crab — Fresh seafood in a fine Green Restaurant — Sandwiches, salads, dining atmosphere with views of the Grand burgers and seafood, ostrich and elk burgers.

River. Early menu 4:30-6 pm daily. GlutenClosed Mon. 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 447free menu. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily.

8294. greenrestaurantgrandrapids.com. L, D 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com.

T ( ue-Sat) $ L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Cheshire Grill — Sandwiches, soups, salads, creative burgers. Open daily for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 635-2713. cheshiregrill.com, Facebook. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$

Grill House & Rock Bottom Bar — Grill-yourown steak with grillmasters on call. Bottomless salad bowl and potato bar. 1071 32nd St (M-40), Allegan, (269) 686-9192. grillhouse. $-$$ net. L (downstairs), D

The Chop House — Aged prime beef, seafood, pork and lamb chops, chicken and more. Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 451-6131. thechophousegrandrapids. $$ com. D

-Honey Creek Inn — Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd, Cannonsburg, 874-7849. cannonsburgvillage.com/honeycreek-inn.php. L, D ¢-$

Dugan’s Pub & Grille — Casual dining with

Hudsonville Grille — Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 55

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hud sonvillegrille.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Judson’s At The B.O.B. — Award-winning steak house offers steaks, seafood and chops. Notable wine list. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/jud sonssteakhouse. D $$ Kitchen 67 — Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes Brann’s sizzling steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more. Full bar with craft beers.

Open daily. 1977 East Beltline Ave NE. kitchen 67.com and Facebook. L, D ¢-$ The Landing — Casual atmosphere with views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at US 131), 363-7748. ontherivergr.com. B, L, D $ FLeo’s — Fresh seafood, Certified Black Angus Beef, New Zealand rack of lamb and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 Mon-Fri. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700, leosrestaurant. com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ LINC Up Soul Food Café — Serves up healthy fusion of country favorites and innovative choices. Open daily (Sun brunch noon-4).

1167 Madison Ave SE (LINC Development Center), 475-6650. facebook.com/lincupsoul ¢-$ foodcafe. B, L, D The Meadows Grille — Patio and dining room overlook GVSU golf course. Appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads.

Open daily during golf season. 1 W Campus Dr, Allendale. gvsu.edu/meadows. L (WedSun), D ¢ Pal’s Diner — Traditional diner offers breakfast, lunch and dinner all day. Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, 942-7257. palsdiner.com.

B, L, D ¢ Pearl Street Grill — Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. Facebook. B, L, D $ Rainbow Grill — Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbow grillmichigan.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Ramona’s Table — Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, burgers, small plates, homemade desserts. Farm-to-table specials.

Michigan beers, wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 17 Squires St Square, Rockford, 951¢-$ 7100. ramonastable.com. L, D

Red Jet Café — In former Creston Heights library. Coffee bar. Menu ranges from omelets to specialty pizzas. Full bar. 1431 Plainfield Ave NE, 719-5500. thegilmorecollec tion.com/redjet.php. B (Sat-Sun), L, D (MonSat) ¢-$ Reds On The River — On Rogue River. Large menu ranges from seafood to chops, plates to share. Extensive deck. Kids menu. 8 E Bridge St, Rockford, 863-8181. reds-live.com.

L, D $-$$ Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteak house.com. L, D $-$$ RiverHouse Ada — Casual vibe. Menu features regional cuisine from chicken and dumplings to filet. Also sandwiches, small plates. Closed Sun. 445 Ada Dr SE, 432-3345. riverhouseada.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$$ Rush Creek Bistro — Diverse menu in clublike surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials. Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro.com. L, D $ Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza.

187 Monroe Ave NW, 774-2000. amway grand.com. L, D $$ Saburba — Specializes in take-out. Everchanging menu of entrees, sandwiches, soups, baked goods and coffee. Catering.

Closed Sun. 7277 Thornapple River Dr, Ada, 682-5290. saburba.com and Facebook. B, L, ¢-$ D Sundance Bar & Grill — Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. 5755 28th St SE (Esplanade Plaza), 956-5644; Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616. $ sundancegrill.com. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) Swan Inn Restaurant — Home-cooked meals include pot roast, Salisbury steak and meatloaf. Huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Terrace Grille at Bay Pointe Inn — Lakefront setting. Seasonally changing menu known for steaks and seafood. Holiday brunches. 11456 Marsh Rd, Shelbyville, (269) 672-5202. bay $-$$ pointeinn.com. L, D Tillman’s — Chicago-style chophouse in former warehouse district. Known for steaks but something for every taste. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. tillmansrestaur $-$$ ant.com. L, D Timbers Inn — Menu ranges from appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like

surroundings. Open daily. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. timbersinn.net. L (Wed-Sun), D ¢-$ Twisted Rooster — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar features local beers/ wines. Open daily. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, 301-8171. twisted-rooster.com. L, D ¢-$$ Vintage — Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. Watermark Country Club, 1600 Galbraith SE, 949-0570. redwaterrestaurantgroup.com. D $$ Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 791-9922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $

VEGETARIAN Bartertown Diner — Vegetarian/vegan/raw offerings in worker-owned and -operated diner. Promotes use of fresh, local ingredients. Closed T ue (hours change seasonally, check website). 6 Jefferson Ave SE, 233-3219. bartertowngr.com. L, D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$

PUBS & TAVERNS 84th Street Pub and Grille — American fare from pizzas to steaks, full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Closed Sun. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr, Byron Center, 583-1650.

84thstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Blue Dog Tavern — West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. L, D ¢ Bobarino’s At The B.O.B. — Grill on 2nd floor of T he B.O.B. offers everything from woodfired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers. Fullservice bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/bob arinospizza. L, D ¢-$ Bud & Stanley’s — Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more. Daily specials. Takeout available.

Open daily. 1701 4 Mile Rd NE, 361-9782. bud andstanleys.com. L, D ¢-$ Cascade Sports Grill — Varied menu of appetizers, sandwiches, baskets, salads. Sizable bar with extensive martini menu. Cascade Centre, 6240 28th St SE, 974-3338.

Facebook. L, D $ Charlie’s Bar & Grill — Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also Mexican

Continued on page 60

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APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 57

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WE’RE IN THE MOOD for eating home cooking in a homey setting, surrounded by noisy, happy people — but we’re not in the mood to cook. Instead we head out to Honey Creek Inn in the tiny village of Cannonsburg, northeast of Grand Rapids.

According to the website, the original tavern was founded in 1935, and for 30 years, current owner Don Kurylowicz has preserved the traditions of “what a pub truly is.”

T hat’s evident as we enter on a weekday night and find the place packed with couples young and old, families and groups of friends all seeming to enjoy themselves.

We don’t have to wait long for a table and soon we’re seated in the midst of the oak-walled dining room with a display of hundreds of original taps of beer served over the years.

T he current beer menu is substantial and well balanced, with nine drafts on tap (from a Brewery Vivant dark ale to a Miller Lite) and a varied selection of international ales and beers.

T here also are some nice wines on the daily blackboard, but we settle for a glass of the house Cabernet Sauvignon ($4.50), which is quite nice.

T he dinner menu is full of interesting dishes, from the Grist Mill Kielbasa Dinner — homemade sausage served with sauerkraut — to Pesto Ahi T una — pan seared and served on pasta tossed in roasted garlic pesto cream and pine nuts.

Huge hamburgers whiz by our table; some look large enough for a table of four to share. We’re tempted to order the Olive Burger, a Michigander favorite with a third of a pound of ground round, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and a hearty helping of olive mayo — we’ve heard raves.

But we start with the Whitefish Pâté

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

What a pub truly is...

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($9.95), featuring smoked Michigan whitefish blended with artichoke, sour cream, herbs and spices. It’s a lovely presentation, with chopped red onion, capers and Carr’s crackers. The pâté tastes even better than it looks. It’s flavorful yet light, not overly salty or fishy like some we’ve sampled. We’d be content to munch on this all evening.

Chef Michael Alexander

T he hunk of iceberg lettuce is topped with shredded cheddar jack cheese, applewood smoked bacon, grape tomatoes and cucumbers and, of course, blue cheese dressing.

T his time we try the Blue Gill Basket ($16.95), which is served with fries and a small helping of coleslaw. T he fried freshwater fish — not often seen on menus — is lightly breaded and very tasty.

Another choice, the “Creek” Gyro, is a bit disappointing. The helping of lamb and beef is substantial, but the tzatziki — the traditional Greek cucumber and yogurt sauce — is too heavy on the cucumber, according to our diner. T he homemade chips with seasoned salt are good and crunchy.

On each visit we plan to order dessert, but we’re too stuffed — in a good way — and taking leftovers home.

dining review

BY IRA CRAAVEN

Honey Creek Inn Address: 8025 Cannonsburg Road NE, Cannonsburg Phone: (616) 874-7849 Website: cannonsburgvillage.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Dining ratings:

An order of Drunken Mushrooms ($8.95) — described as Don’s west-side recipe — is also delicious: ‘shrooms cooked in red wine and garlic butter and served with a hot roll, the kind with a crunchy crust and soft insides.

For entrees, one person orders the Thursday special — Honey Creek’s Famous Ribs & Brisket Dinner ($18.99), featuring a half-rack of ribs, beef brisket, creamed corn, honeyed sweet potatoes, Johnny Cake and coleslaw.

The meat is tender, but the barbecue sauce lacks punch. T he sides, on the other hand, are stellar. The sweet potato is a nice hunk, not mashed or overly sweet. T he creamed corn has our dining companion wanting more.

We also try the Loaded Mac ‘n’Cheese, an outstanding version with bacon, grape tomatoes, shitake mushrooms and smoked cheddar cheese baked with a parmesan crust and onion straws.

On another visit we have the Wedge Salad ($8.95), which could suffice as a meal.

Service is friendly and prompt, despite the crowded dining space in this “Irish pub under Polish management.”

Service is friendly and prompt, despite the crowded dining space in this “Irish pub under Polish management.” At one point a server reaches over our table to deliver a drink to someone seated in the middle of the room. “Sorry,” she apologized with a smile.

“It’s just in an awkward place.”

We’ll be back and next time we’ll try the — IRA CRAAVEN desserts.

Category: New American Food: *** Service: *** Beverages: *** Atmosphere: **** Price: $

Must try: The whitefish pâté was outstanding.

Not so much: Wish the barbecue sauce had more zing.

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

Exceptional Above Average Satisfactory Poor

¢ $ $$

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

(Prices based on average entrée.)

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Continued from page 56 fare, sandwiches. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily.

Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 774-2000. amwaygrand.com. L, D $

Cheers Good Time Saloon — Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. T ake-out available. Open daily.

3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheers grandrapids.com, Facebook. B, L, D ¢

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

Corner Bar — Famous for brews and chili dogs, but with extensive menu. 31 N Main St, Rockford, 866-9866. rockfordcornerbar. com. L, D ¢ Cottage Bar — Longtime favorite since 1927.

Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chili and more. Closed Sun. 18 LaGrave Ave ¢ SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz. L, D Crooked Goose — Full menu of “old-school tavern favorites,” including munchies, pizzas, sandwiches and burgers, fresh greens, entrees. Open daily. 355 Wilson Ave NW, Walk¢-$ er, 791-2362. crookedgoose.com. L, D Derby Station — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 301-3236. derby station.com. L, D $ ➧Elk Brewing Co. — Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. Facebook. L (FriSun), D ¢ Flanagan’s — Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrees with Irish influence.

Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. L, D ¢ Founders Brewing Co. — Spacious taproom, serpentine bar, and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches.

Outdoor beer garden. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing.com. L, D ¢ Frankie V’s Pizzeria & Sports Bar — Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Open daily. 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs.com. L, D ¢-$ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. — Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-to-table menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees. Open daily. 1 Ionia Ave SW, 459-7000. grbrewing company.com. L (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$ Grand Rapids Garage Bar and Grill — “AllAmerican grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. L, D ¢ GP Sports — Sports bar and restaurant.

Gravity Taphouse Grille — Industrial décor. Menu items paired with craft beer suggestions. Pizzas, small and large plates, 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily. 3210 Deposit Dr (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4144. redwater ¢-$ restaurants.com, Facebook. L, D Harmony Brewing Co. — Eastown’s addition to the craft-brewing scene offers custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4pm. Open daily. 1551 Lake Drive SE, 233-0063. harmony beer.com. L, D $ Holly’s Back Door Bar & Grill — Full menu and good selection of munchies at Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Closed Sun & Mon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. hojogr.com. B, L, D $ HopCat — Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare from meatloaf to mussels. Open daily.

25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677. hopcatgr.com.

L (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$ Hub’s Inn — Sandwiches, burgers, Mexican food and pizzas. Closed Sun. 1645 Leonard St NW, 453-3571. hubsinn.com. L, D ¢ J.D. Reardon’s — Restaurant and lounge at The Boardwalk offers American, Southwest, T hai and more. Banquet facilities; outdoor seating. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardons.com. L, D $-$$ J. Gardella’s Tavern — Massive bar and gargantuan menu includes hearty appetizers, salads, burgers, entrees. Three floors of seating. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellas ¢ tavern.com. L, D Main Street Pub — Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Kids eat free Sun-Wed. 11240 University Parkway, Allendale, 895-1234; 1730 28th St SW, Wyoming, 532-2510. mainstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ McFadden’s Restaurant & Saloon — New York-style Irish menu includes “re-created” pub fare. T ransforms into nightclub late at night. Open daily. 58 Ionia Ave SW, 4549105. mcfaddensgrandrapids.com. L, D $ Mill Creek Tavern — Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. 3874 West River Dr, 784-3806.

millcreektaverngr.com. L, D

¢-$

The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseballthemed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing.com, Face¢-$ book. L, D Mojo’s — Lively dueling piano bar and restaurant open for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat, plus late night “munchy menu.” RSVP for dinner early, show starts at 8 pm Wed-Thu, 7 pm Fri-Sat. Closed Sun-T ue. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com.

D ¢-$ Monarchs’ Club — Starters and snacks, sausages, specialty hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and GR Stackers. Michigan beer on draft. Open daily. 646 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9799. monarchsclub.com. L, D ¢ Nick Finks — Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Live music on Sat. Open T ue-Sat. 3965 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 7849886. thegilmorecollection.com/nickfinks. php. D $ O’Toole’s Public House — Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. 448 Bridge St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. L, D ¢-$ ➧Osgood Brewing Co. — Craft brewery serves shareables, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, pasta and salads. Kids menu available. Open daily. 4051 Chicago Drive SW, Grandville, 432-3881. osgoodbrewing.com. L, D ¢-$ Peppino’s Pizzeria and Sports Grille — Italian/American menu. 0-5065 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Allendale, 895-1615; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880; Downtown, 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444. peppinospizza.com.

L, D ¢-$$ ➧Perrin Brewing Co. — Comstock Park microbrewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, hot dogs, panini and more.

Kids menu available. Open daily. 5910 Comstock Park Drive, perrinbrewing.com. L, D ¢ Rezervoir Lounge — Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrees, some with Cajun flavor. Open daily. 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com, Facebook.

L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$ Rockford Brewing Co. — Located alongside Rogue River. Food ordered from Vitales.

Hand-crafted brews on tap. Open daily. 12 E Bridge St, Rockford, 951-4677. rockfordbrew ing.com. L, D ¢-$ The Score — Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap.

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Sharing Your Passion For Pets

Pictured L to R: Dr. Ryan Carpenter Dr. Randy Carpenter Dr. Katie Yazvac Dr. Sharon Henn Dr. Sarah Shull Dr. Kathryn Sutphen

Veterinary Services w Boarding w Grooming w Doggie Daycare 6555 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | www.familyfriendsvet.com | 616.575.6520

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Open daily. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. thescore-restaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Shepards Grill & Tavern — Bar food with flare, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily.

Cascade Center, 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604.

Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Stella’s Lounge — Award-winning stuffed burgers, vegan and vegetarian items too.

Known for its whiskey selection. Open daily.

53 Commerce Ave, 742-4444. stellasgr.com.

L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ Village Inn Pizza & Sports Grille — Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Open daily. 2215 44th St SE, Kentwood, 281-1444. vipizza.net. L, D ¢-$ V itale’s Sports Lounge & Pizzeria — Pizza, pasta, panini and wraps in sports-centric surrounding. Outside deck, live entertainment. Open daily. 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-6044; takeout 784-5011. vitalessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$ Woody’s Press Box — Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Open daily. 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, 530-2400. spectru mlanes.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D $ Z’s — Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees. Carry-out available. Open daily. 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar.com. L, D ¢-$

ITALIAN/ EUROPEAN Amore Trattoria Italiana — Regional Italian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. Housemade desserts. Banquet facility. Sun brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Closed Mon. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, 785-5344. amoretrat toriaitaliana.com. D (Tue-Sat) $ Angela’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria — Italian dinners, pizza, stromboli, subs and desserts. Daily specials. Lunch buffet, full-service bar. Closed Sun. 240 E Division, Sparta, (616) 887-1913. angelaspizza ¢-$ andrestaurant.com. L (Mon-Fri), D Big Bob’s Pizza — Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar. Open daily. 661 Croswell SE, 233-0123. bigbobspizza.com. L (not Mon), D ¢-$

in tradition of French and Belgian country dishes. Housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. breweryvivant.com. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Brick Road Pizza — T raditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (gluten-free crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroad pizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Euro Bistro — European bistro fare includes entrees, small plates, salads, wood-fired pizzas. Take-out available. Full bar. Closed Sun. 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. eurobistrogr.com.

L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Florentine Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Big-screen T Vs, pool tables, darts, foosball. 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Florentine of Grandville — Italian, American and Mexican cuisine including pizzas and hand-made pastas. 3245 28th St SW, 5345419. florentineingrandville.com. L, D $ Flo’s Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Bar — Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrees. Big screen T Vs; take-out available.

Open daily. 1259 Post Drive, Belmont, 785¢-$ 1001. flossportsbar.com. L, D Franco’s Pizzeria — Italian entrees, Stromboli, pizza and subs. T akeout available. No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. francospizzagr.com. D ¢-$ Fred’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant — Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 3618994. fredspizza.com. L, D ¢-$ Fricano’s Pizza Restaurant — Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Closed Sun. 5808 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, ¢-$ 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. D Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza — Fifty gourmet pizza options, whole or by the slice. T akeout, delivery available. Open daily. 15 Ionia Ave SW, Suite 140, 356-4600; 5570 28th St SE, 608-8000. georgiosgourmetpizza.com.

L, D ¢-$

Bella Pizzeria — Italian entrees, wings, sandwiches, specialty pizzas. Open daily. 3519 S Division Ave, 452-2810. bellapizzagr.com. L (not Sun), D ¢-$

G.R.P.D. — Grand Rapids Pizza & Delivery offers traditional, stuffed and specialty pizzas.

No alcohol. Open daily, with a few tables for dining in. 340 State St SE, 742-4773. grand rapidspizza.net. L, D ¢-$

FBrewery V ivant — Belgian beer and food

Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen — Special-

ties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrees, calzones and desserts. Open daily.

2896 Knapp St NE. 608-6912. licarispizza $ kitchen.com. L, D Mangiamo — Historic mansion houses family-friendly eatery. Italian fare plus steaks and seafood. Extensive wine list. Full bar. Open daily. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 742-0600. thegilmore collection.com/mangiamo.php. D $-$$ Marinade’s Pizza Bistro — Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan craft beer. Catering. Open daily. 109 Courtland St, Rockford, 863-3300. marinadespizza bistro.com. L, D ¢ Monelli’s Italian Grill & Sports Bar — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus familyfriendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. 5675 Byron Center Ave, Wyoming, 530¢-$ 9700. monellis.com. L, D Noto’s Old World Italian Dining — Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. D $-$$ FOsteria Rossa — Casual Italian-inspired cuisine with Michigan roots from Executive Chef/Owner Chris Perkey. Wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta. Full bar. Open Sun for brunch. 16 Monroe Center NW. 988-9350. ¢-$ osteriarossa.com. L (Mon-Fri), D Pietro’s Italian Ristorante — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. 2780 Birchcrest Dr SE, 4523228. rcfc.com/pietros. L, D $ Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant — Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily.

654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatores gr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ San Chez, A Tapas Bistro — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées too. Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. 38 W Fulton St, 774-8272. sanchezbistro.com. L, D $-$$ Trattoria di’ Stagione — Small and large plates of Italian dishes from pasta to seafood using locally sourced ingredients. Outside patio. Open daily. 1420 Lake Drive SE, 4585583. trattoriadistagione.com. D $ Tre Cugini — Innovative Italian menu, impressive wine list, fresh pasta and risotto specialties. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. 122 Monroe Center, 235-9339. trecugini.com.

L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

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3100 29th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512

www.whiskerspetresort.com

2855 29th St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512

www.whiskersuniversity.com

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B

food & drink

2

RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Th Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Italian specialties including entrees, plus burgers, sandwiches. Open daily.

2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520; 8256 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, 8911100; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, 249-9344. ¢-$ uccellos.com. L, D Vitale’s — T raditional dishes from family recipes. Closed Sun. 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368. (Vitale’s Sports Lounge next door, 458-2090, open daily lunch and dinner). theoriginalvitales.com. L (sports bar), D ¢-$ V itale’s Of Ada — Regional, upscale dishes made from scratch. Also pizza, subs and burgers. Family-friendly; microbrews to martinis in sports pub. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 676-5400. vitalesada.com. L, D ¢-$ V itale’s Pizzeria — Multiple locations serving pizza and pasta from family recipes. 3868 West River Dr, Comstock Park, 784-6044; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 662-2244, (no alcohol); 5380 S Division Ave, Kentwood, 530-8500. vitales.us. L, D ¢-$

ASIAN Angel’s Thai Café — Extensive T hai fare.

Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option.

Vegetarian-friendly. No alcohol. Open daily.

136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angelsthai cafe.com. L, D ¢-$ Asian Palace — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. Family owned and operated. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 825 28th St SW, 534-7770. L, D ¢-$ Bamboo — Vietnamese and Thai cuisine using fresh ingredients made to order. No alcohol. Opens at 11 for lunch. Closed Weds. 2907 S. Division Ave, Wyoming, 419-3976. bamboo gr.com. L, D ¢-$ Bangkok Taste — Thai fare with lunch buffet. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550; 674 Baldwin St, Jenison, 3565550. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Bangkok V iew — Authentic T hai cuisine.

No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1233 28th St SW, 531-8070. bangkokviewthairestaurant.com, Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchengr.com. L (not Sat), D ¢-$ Blue Ginger Asian Kitchen — Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrees, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 5751 Byron Center Ave (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. bluegingerkitchen. com. L, D ¢-$

China Chef — Family-style restaurant with Szechuan-style entrées and Hunan choices.

No alcohol. Open daily. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com, Facebook. L, D ¢-$ China City — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. L, D ¢-$ ChinaTown — Asian restaurant and Japanese steakhouse with tabletop-style meals available. Closed Mon. 69 28th St SW, 4523025. chinatowngrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ China Yi Wang — Chinese dishes including spicy Hunan. No alcohol. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. L, D ¢-$ East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol.

6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 698-8933. L, D ¢-$ Empire Chinese Buffet — All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. Open daily.

4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empire chinesebuffet2.com. L, D ¢-$ Erb Thai — T hai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol.

Open daily. 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr.com. Facebook. L, D ¢ Erb Thai Café — Thai fare for dining in/taking out. No alcohol. Open daily. 4160 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 724-4102. Facebook. L, D ¢ Erb Thai Xpress — T hai fare for take-out only. Open daily. 820 Michigan St NE, 4540444 (fax 454-0485). Facebook. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Far-East Chinese Restaurant — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carryout and catering available. No alcohol. 3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ First Wok — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. Three locations: 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 5759088. firstwokgr.com. L, D $ Fuji Yama Asian Bistro — Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. letseat.at/ fujiyama. L, D ¢-$ Fortune Chef — Chinese and American fare.

Breakfast served all day. No alcohol. Open daily. 9353 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, 891-1388. fortunechefcaledonia.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 627 28th St SW, Wyoming, 531-2800. L, D $

Golden Dragon — Chinese, Mandarin cuisines with Japanese steakhouse. Full bar.

Closed Sun. 3629 Plainfield Ave NE, 3631318. goldendragongr.com. L, D $ Golden Gate Restaurant — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol.

4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook.

L, D ¢ Golden Wok — Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials.

Full bar. Open daily. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwok grandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ Grand Lakes — Chinese dishes, lunch combination plates. No alcohol. Pick-up and take-out only. 1810 Breton Rd SE (Breton Village), 954-2500. grandlakesgrandrapids. com. L, D ¢-$ Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — PanAsian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Ridge Shopping Center), 785-8200. letseat.at/hibachi grillsupremebuffet. L, D ¢ Hong Kong Express — Szechuan and Cantonese for dine-in or carry-out. All-you-caneat lunch buffet. No alcohol. 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888. L, D ¢-$ Hunan Chinese Restaurant — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. 1740 44th St SW, 530-3377. hunangr.com; 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. L, D ¢-$ Jade Garden — Chinese cuisine with some American dishes. Children’s menu, large selection of tropical cocktails. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 455-8888. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. T akeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$ Lai Thai Kitchen — Vietnamese, T hai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. Facebook, laithai kitchen.com. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive T hai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr. com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Mandarin — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine. Cocktails. Lunch menu. Open daily.

2460 28th St SE, 530-3300. mandaringrand rapids.com. L, D ¢-$ Marado Sushi — Large selection of rolls,

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Pictu

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Thank you for voting Uccello’s

BEST HAPPY HOUR!

Pictured L to R: Elenia Uccello, Jessica Uccello, Francesca Uccello, Faro Uccello, Lidia Uccello-Piccione, Mario Piccione, Sergio Uccello

Serving award-winning pizza in West Michigan since 1978, Founder Faro Uccello & the Uccello's Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge is proud to be locally owned & operated by the Uccello family. With 5 locations in the greater West Michigan area, Uccello's offers a mouth watering combination of Italian & American cuisine & is the premier game viewing destination in West Michigan.

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grabbin’ a bite

BY GRANT STOYE

Pictured left: Double cut bone-in pork chop, first smoked then finished on the grill, with apple and asparagus salad, herbed risotto. Center: Hanger steak cooked to order served with Church Fries and black pepper jus. Right: Hot Wings massive turkey wings smoked in duck fat, served with Asian, Hot or BBQ sauce.

New takes on old faves ered with crispy chorizo, thick bacon, cheddar cheese, a fried egg and a bit of mayonnaise on a brioche bun.

Just so you know, the Breakfast Burger also works as an actual breakfast — I ate the leftovers the next morning and it was resplendent.

I also sampled Ada Pour House’s take on a French Dip, and it was terrific. Chef Patrick McCay takes marinated flank steak, covers it in sautéed onions and lets a mild Swiss cheese melt over it, then serves it on a tasty roll. The au jus is a perfect flavor complement as it doesn’t mask the taste of the sandwich.

One of my favorite dishes was the deepfried mac and cheese balls. Racquetball-size spheres of homemade macaroni and cheese — which would be fantastic on its own — are breaded and fried.

T he menu has staples that are sure to please for a long time to come, but since opening late last year, Aldridge has tweaked the menu to accommodate ideas that present something new and familiar at the same time.

— Grant Stoye enjoys writing about baseball and comic books, eating well and frequently, and drawing pictures of dinosaurs in formal wear.

One of my favorite dishes was the deepfried mac and cheese balls. Racquetball-size spheres of homemade macaroni and cheese — which would be fantastic on its own — are breaded and fried.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

ADA HAS ITS FIRST GASTROPUB, and it’s a doozy.

Located at 6749 E. Fulton St., Ada Pour House is just what the doctor ordered — if the prescription is for bar food and beyond — and beer, of course.

The place has an extensive brew selection touting many Michigan craft beers, and a food menu that features new takes on traditional concepts.

For example, there’s a dish called Not Poutine.

Owner Rob Aldridge has made alterations to the trendy poutine that, while new, stay true to the idea. He started with a base of hand-cut sweet potato fries and added crispy chorizo, white cheddar corn fondue, pickled jalapeno and shaved radish.

T he result is a delicious dish that has some heat, but not so much that it masks the complex flavors. Also, it’s not nearly as heavy as the traditional version of French fries, gravy and cheese curds.

Another entrée using chorizo is Pour House’s Breakfast Burger, a wondrous concoction featuring a burger with a fried egg.

T he burger, cooked to order, features a patty that is 60 percent seasoned brisket cov66 GRMAG.COM \ APRIL 2015

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

tempura, udon and yakisoba noodles, teriyaki, hibachi, plus selection of Korean entrees.

Open Mon-Sat for lunch and dinner, Sun 2-9 pm. 6252 28th St SE, 977-0444. L, D ¢-$ Maru Sushi & Grill — Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Open daily. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. marurest aurant.com. L, D $-$$ Mikado Sushi — Sushi and sashimi à la carte.

Dinners offer full range of Japanese cuisine.

Lunch specials. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 3971 28th St SE, 285-7666. mikadogr.com.

L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Ming Ten — All-you-can-eat Japanese/ Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily.

2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), (616) 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Mynt Fusion Bistro — Asian fare includes Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries: blue, peanut or yellow. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$ Ning Ye — Family-owned restaurant serves Chinese and Korean fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun during winter. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888. ningye.info. L, D $ Nu-Thai Bistro — Appetizers, soups, T hai salads, fried rice, curries and noodle dishes; seafood, duck. No alcohol. Open daily. 2055 28th St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com.

L, D ¢-$ Osaka Steakhouse — Japanese cuisine including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. 4977 28th St SE, 419-4628. osakagr.com. L, D $ P.F. Chang’s China Bistro — Upscale chain known for modern Chinese dishes from Mongolian beef to chicken lettuce wraps. Full bar. T he Village at Knapp’s Crossing, 2065 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-2060. pfchangs. com. L, D $

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Pho Anh Trang — Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily.

No alcohol. 3633 Eastern Ave, Wyoming, 246-9966. phoanhtrang.com. L, D ¢-$

Award Winning Asian Dining

Pho Soc Trang — Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. 4242 S Division Ave, 531-0755. L, D ¢-$ Rak Thai Bistro — Thai-fusion fare with Chinese and Japanese influences. No alcohol.

6719 S Division Ave, 551-1706; Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 805-5308; 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. rakthaibistro. com. L, D ¢-$ Red Sun Buffet — All-you-can-eat buffet. No APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 67

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Seoul Garden — Chinese and Korean cuisine with full bar. Banquet and catering facilities also available. Closed Sun. 3321 28th St SE, 956-1522. L, D $-$$ Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine including sushi. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area.

Serves alcohol. 3005 East Beltline SE, 9425120. shanghaiichiban.com. L, D $-$$ Sunny Kitchen — Authentic Chinese and dim sum. Catering available. No alcohol.

Closed Mon. 3338 Eastern Ave SE, 805-5964. sunnykitchengrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$ Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni. net, Facebook. L, D ¢-$$ Thai Express — T hai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Thai Fusion — Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu $5.99. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 3097 Broadmoor Ave SE (near 29th St), 301-8883. thaifusiongr.com. L, D ¢-$

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

INDIAN Bombay Cuisine — Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from Northern India. Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available.

1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. Facebook. L, D $ Curry Kitchen — Authentic Indian cuisine.

Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. T akeout.

Open daily. No alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 2421300. currykitchengr.com. L, D $ India Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan in humble atmosphere. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No alcohol. Closed T ue.

3760 S Division Ave, 243-1219. indiatowngrr. com. L, D ¢-$ Palace Of India — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11 am-3 pm. No alcohol.

138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindia restaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Royal Palace of India — T raditional Indian cuisine. Open daily. 526 Stocking Ave NW, 913-9040. royalpalaceofindia.com. L, D $

Three Happiness Restaurant — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials.

No alcohol. 3330 Alpine Ave NW, Target Plaza, 785-3888. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

FXO Asian Cuisine — T hai, Chinese and Vietnamese food. Full bar. Vegetarian options, lunch specials Mon-Sat. Open daily. 58 Monroe Center, 235-6969. xoasiancuisine. com. L, D $-$$

Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-through, take-out, delivery and catering available.

Closed Sun. 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 791-6660. mrgyrosdrivethru.com. L, D ¢-$ Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine — Large selection of Lebanese cuisine. Serves beer and wine.

Takeout and catering available. Closed SunMon. 2228 Wealthy St SE in EGR, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. L (Tue-Fri), D ¢-$ Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, lunch and dinner combos. Catering available. No alcohol. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com.

L, D ¢-$ Pita House — Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. 1450 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029; 4533 Ivanrest Ave SW, 261-4302. thepitahouse.net. L, D ¢

Red Olive Restaurant — Huge menu features Greek and Mediterranean entrees, gyros, pita wraps and other sandwiches, pastas, steaks, seafood, burgers and more. Kids menu, carry-out available. 3563 28th St SE, 954-0300. redoliverestaurant.com. B, L, D ¢-$

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

Wonton Express — No-frills ambience serving authentic Chinese fare. No alcohol. 6719 ¢-$ S Division Ave, 281-8816. L, D

Mediterranean Grills — Gyros, kabobs, falafel, shwarma, hummus, kafta. Closed Sun. No alcohol. Cascade Center, 6250 28th St SE, 949-9696. L, D $

Raad’s Mediterranean Grill — Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Lebanese favorites. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. 962 Cherry St SE, 4547223. raadsgr.com, Facebook. L, D $

Tokyo Grill & Sushi — Japanese tatami rooms, sushi bars. Menu includes hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, plus Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily.

4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyogrill sushi.com. L, D ¢-$

Wei Wei Palace — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. L, D $

Marie Catrib’s — Middle-Eastern sandwiches, soups, salads. Deli, bakery, T urkish coffee, kids menu. Vegetarian options. Closed Sun. No alcohol. 1001 Lake Dr SE, 454-4020. mariecatribs.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D (MonFri) ¢-$

Zeytin

MIDDLE EASTERN/ MEDITERRANEAN Le Kabob — Huge appetizer selection, soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrees and combos. Kids menu. Carry out available.

No alcohol. Open daily. 2923 28th St SE, 2724135; 4022 Alpine Ave NW, 647-9722. leka bob.com. L, D ¢-$

Sheshco Grill — Mediterranean cuisine including shish kabob, lamb shanks, quail and sautéed meats, plus vegetarian and seafood options. No alcohol. Open daily. 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill.com. L, D $ FShiraz Grille — Authentic Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar, wine list, martinis. Closed Mon. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949-7447. shirazgrille.com.

L (Fri-Sun), D $-$$ Zeytin — T urkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Full bar, extensive beer and wine lists.

T akeout available. Open daily. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-2222. zeytinturkishrestaurant. com. L, D $

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

alcohol. Open daily. 4176 28th St SE, 9409999. redsungrandrapids.com. L, D ¢-$

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AFRICAN Little Africa Cuisine — Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other specialties. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Open daily. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Facebook. L, D ¢ Gojo Ethiopian Cuisine & Deli — Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injerra flatbread.

Ethiopian coffee ceremony Sun-Mon. Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily.

421 Norwood SE, 459-3383. gojoethiopian cuisine.com. L, D $ Gursha Ethiopian Restaurant — Authentic Ethiopian dishes, traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Buffet lunch and dinner on Sat. No alcohol. Open daily. 4301 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 350-0009. Facebook. L, D $

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MEXICAN/LATIN AMERICAN/ CARIBBEAN 7 Mares — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. Opens daily at 10. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$ Beltline Bar — Americanized T ex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Big Enchilada curbside service: call in your order and have it brought to your car. Open daily. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar. com. L, D $ FEBRUARY 1 – APRIL 25, 2015

Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare. Full bar, take-out, vegetarian selections.

1409 60th St SE, 281-6891. cabanatresami gos.net. L, D ¢-$

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Café San Juan — Puerto Rican and Mexican/ American cuisine. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 3549 Burlingame Ave SW, 530-2293. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Cancun Mexican and Seafood Restaurant — Specializes in Mexican seafood dishes but offers a full range of items. Open daily. 1518 Grandville Ave SW, 248-2824. L, D ¢-$ Cantina — Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full-service bar. Drive-thru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily. 2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantinamexican grill.biz. L (Sun-Thu), D $ Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. T ake-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 2334141. chezolga.com. L, D ¢-$ Cinco De Mayo — Mexican eatery offers the usual fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar. Open daily. 123 Courtland St, Rockford, 866-3438; 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2404.

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nosh & sip

BY AMY RUIS

APPETIZERS, APERITIV O, ANTIPASTO — all suggest the prospect of something to eat and drink before a meal.

While Americans usually use the term “appetizer” to signify the beginning of a food evening, in Italy antipasto is the traditional first course.

The good news is that an assortment of Italian antipasti make up a simple course that demands simple “country” wines.

An Italian rosé pairs nicely with an antipasti plate at Trattoria di Stagione, featuring four Italian cheeses, green and oil cured black olives, thinly cut marinated veggies, salami and a country-style pâté.

T ypical antipasto offerings include cured meats, olives, pickled or grilled vegetables, tinned fish like anchovies or sardines, dried fruits and various cheeses.

I dream of delightful little skewers, crisp breadsticks and a baguette to complete the experience.

The good news is that an assortment of Italian antipasti make up a simple course that demands simple “country” wines. T o achieve simplicity and delight in pairing, when eating a country’s food, drink their wine, too.

Here are some Italian wines to start off your dinner: Prosecco — Bubbly, crisp and dry, prosecco has the right amount of creamy almond and citrus fruit to please the palate. It’s a refreshing start to an evening — a little lighter in alcohol and plays well with all the foods on an antipasti plate. Lellé is one of my favorites.

Pinot Grigio — T he quintessential Italian white grape. And yes, it gets a bad rap from many wine drinkers because, if not made well, it can taste a little like glorified water. Ask your favorite wine purveyor to recommend one that is quality; they can really range in price so take your pick.

Producers like Lageder or Jermann or E Solo are classy options for your night.

Rosé — Italians generally produce a slightly deeper-colored, slightly spicier, dark-red-berrybased sip than the French. I am a fan because it does go nicely with such fatty foods as cheeses and cured meats as well as the rest of the antipasti. You’ll find many Italian rosés making it back to the marketplace in time for summer.

Dolcetto — While definitely red, this grape has shorter skin contact when crushing to make for a lighter-styled wine that is both fruity and appropriately dry (not sweet, as the name “Dolcetto” implies). Its earthy spice lends to pairing with antipasti so much better than heavy, extracted wines that tend to lose balance between this type of food and your sip. Batasiolo, Vietti and Costa di Bussia are brands that please.

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

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Italian antipasto wine pairings

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

FDonkey Taqueria — Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920’s service station. Full bar with large selection of tequila. Open daily. 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr.com, Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Downtown Trini’s — Sparta destination offers traditional Mexican fare. Full bar. Closed Sun and Mon. 148 E Division Ave, Sparta, 887-2500. downtowntrinis.com. L, D ¢-$

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El Arriero Mexican Grill — Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, with à la carte selections for smaller appetites. Mexican and domestic beers, Margaritas. Open daily. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarrieromexicangrill. com. L, D ¢-$ El Barrio Mexican Grill — Creative twists on Mexican. Full bar. Open daily. 545 Michigan St NE, 301-0010. elbarriomexicangrill.com.

L, D ¢-$

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El Burrito Loco — More than 70 Mexican selections and a few American. Full bar. Open daily. 4499 Ivanrest SW, 530-9470. elburrito locorestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$

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El Granjero — Mexican fare from steak and shrimp dishes to à la carte and menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. 950 Bridge St NW, 4585595. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ El Sombrero — Offers “the original” wet burrito, dry ones too. Weekly specials. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 527 Bridge St NW, 451-4290. elsombrerorestaurantmi.com. L, D ¢ Fajita Republic — Upscale Mexican fare with fajitas flamed tableside, tacos a la carte. 100 tequillas in the full bar. Open daily. 2183 East Beltline Ave NE, 272-3047. fajitarepublic cantina.com. L, D $ Grand V illa Dungeon — Mexican food and American favorites. Full bar. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, 534-8435. villadungeon.com. L (FriSun), D $

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Jamaican Dave’s — Jerked, fricasseed or curried chicken; curried goat, oxtail, beef and chicken patties; jerked wings; salt fish and “escoveitched” fish. Closed Sun. 1059 Wealthy St SE, 458-7875. jamaicandaves. com. L, D ¢

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Las Cazuelas — Open for breakfast at 10 am.

Genuine Hispanic flavors. 411 Wilson Ave NW, Walker, 726-6600. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ La Huasteca — Homemade recipes. All items can be accommodated for vegetarians.

Small dining room. No alcohol. Open daily.

1811 Plainfield Ave. NE, 447-7733. Facebook.

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pints of interest

BY PAT EVANS

Big flavor, less alcohol “thickness.” Guinness clocks in at 4.2 percent abv, and a 12-ounce serving is just 125 calories, nearly the same as a Bud Light.

Pilsners and stouts have long been familiar to beer consumers in the United States, but globally, there are plenty of other beers with low alcohol.

Colorado’s New Belgium Brewing Co. released Snapshot Wheat last year as an introduction to the brewery’s massive sour beer program. Snapshot Wheat, at 5 percent abv, is a nice, easy-drinking wheat beer with a bit of a tart finish.

T he beer style “Gose” is making a push into the United States. Gose ales originated in Germany and are brewed with salted water and at least 50 percent wheat. T he first sip can take some getting used to, but the tart finish is oddly refreshing. The abv is generally 4 to 5 percent.

If those are too weird for your palate, you can always fall back to a tamer brew such as the cream and brown ales. T wo great Michigan options are Right Brain Brewery Smooth Operator Cream Ale (3.8 percent) and Mitten Brewing Co.’s T riple Crown Brown (4.2 percent.)

Plenty of other German and Belgian beers find themselves clocking in under 5 percent, it’s just a matter of a brewer’s preference — just as a beer is a drinker’s preference.

— Pat Evans is a writer and researcher for Gemini Publications who has studied and followed the local beer industry the past six years.

Simple session beers to try... > Keep hometown pride alive and try Founders All Day IPA, which empowers hops without the alcohol content of a normal IPA. > Head north for Traverse City’s Right Brain’s Smooth Operator Cream Ale for a lager-like creaminess and sub-4 percent alcohol by volume. > Tap into Irish heritage and down a Guinness Draught, which is not short on flavor and body but clocks in at just 4.2 percent abv.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Session IPAs are a hit for the same reason IPAs are the driver of the craft beer surge — they are such a contrast from macro-light lagers.

IN 2012, FOUNDERS BREWING CO. released All Day IPA, a beer with big flavor and less alcohol than a traditional India Pale Ale. That so-called “session beer” is leading Founders’ rapid expansion across the country.

It seems Founders was at the front of a budding national trend, as brewers across the country now are making session IPAs with less than 5 percent alcohol by volume.

The purpose of a session beer is to allow a beer drinker to have multiple beers within a reasonable time period — or session.

Session IPAs are a hit for the same reason IPAs are the driver of the craft beer surge — they are such a contrast from macro-light lagers such as Budweiser, which taste to some like lightly flavored water.

Finding a nice, full-flavor pilsner under 5 percent abv isn’t hard — take a look at Sierra Nevada’s new beer Nooner. T he California brewer’s new offering clocks in right at 5 percent, qualifying it as a session beer.

Jump the pond to Ireland and you’ll find Guinness, which is actually one of the first session beers — and one that always throws drinkers for a loop because of its big flavor and perceived

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

fare, including tacos stuffed with goat, chicken, pork and cactus in a casual, take-out setting. 1338 S Division Ave, 284-2297. L, D ¢ Lindo Mexico Restaurant — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Happy hour 2-6 pm.

Kids menu. Open daily. 1292 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2280. lindomexicorestaura nt.com. L, D ¢-$ Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol. 636 Bridge St NW, 458-8583. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ Michoacan — Mexican fare plus seafood, chicken and steak dishes. No alcohol. Open at 9 am. 334 Burton St SW, 452-0018. B, L, D ¢-$ Mi Tierra Restaurant — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive through. No alcohol. 2300 S Division Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D ¢ Taco Bob’s — Fresh-Mex, taco salads and the “funny taco,” a hard-shell wrapped in a soft shell. No alcohol. Open Mon.-Fri. 250 Monroe Ave NW, 458-1533. tacobobs.com. L ¢

4353 Three Mile Road NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616.363.6400 | kappeslandscapes.com

CREATIVE IMAGINATIVE TIMELESS

Tacos El Caporal — T wo locations serving Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. 1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St SW, Wyoming, 261-2711. B, L, D ¢

Pre-Festival

Sunday April 26 2015 Dining Guide Legend

Starting and finishing in front of the Knickerbocker Theater.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

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

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

- — Reviewed in this issue — Chef Profile in this issue ➧ — New listing O — GRM’s 2014 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2014 Dining Award Winner Additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email mprimeau@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

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MAY 2-9 HOLLAND, MICHIGAN

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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BY J. STAPLETON-BURCH • PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

HELPING PEOPLE ACHIEVE THEIR PERSONAL BODY CONTOURING GOALS

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Dr. Ryan T.M. Mitchell

THE BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED, patientcentered Bengtson Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery has earned international acclaim for Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Bradley Bengtson’s state-of-the-art surgical expertise. His entire team of highly skilled medical professionals is focused on providing the highest level of patient care with safe, naturally restored and refined results. Now Dr. Ryan T.M. Mitchell. has joined the practice. Although qualified in all aspects of plastic and aesthetic surgery and non-invasive procedures, Dr. Mitchell’s specialty is providing body sculpting surgical solutions for patients that have experienced dramatic weight loss or undergone bariatric or gastric bypass procedures.

“Post bariatric body reconstruction is required in a specialized patient body-type where significant weight

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loss occurs relatively quickly, and surgery in patients who have lost over 100 pounds,” observes Dr. Mitchell.

“Although standard tummy-tuck procedures and liposuction are among the most commonly performed procedures, patients who have undergone significant weight loss require special attention and techniques. Although I enjoy all areas of plastic surgery, I am incredibly passionate about helping this specific group of patients achieve their goals. I absolutely love it and I am really pleased to join the phenomenal team at the Bengtson Center.”

With several publications to his credit, Dr. Mitchell is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, certified by the Canadian Board serving Michigan and the Midwest and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. He joins the Bengtson Center

BUSINESS SHOWCASE BENGTSON CENTER FOR AESTHETICS AND PLASTIC SURGERY

after completing a prestigious worldrenowned Fellowship in Body Contouring at the Pittsburgh Medical Center.

“Dedicating a year of my life focused on these procedures has really helped me see the challenges and complexities that some weight-loss patients bring to the table,” says Dr. Mitchell. With a true passion for plastic surgery, he is renowned for his dedication to excellence in patient care as well as his exemplary surgical skills. He listens carefully to each patient’s personal goals, explains all their options, and above all, strives to provide safe results that exceed expectations ... every time.

“As a plastic surgeon, it is very important to be someone that patients can relate with,” says the down-toearth doctor. “It’s quite an intimate situation. It can be intimidating and humbling, but I’m here to help. I’m another tool in the toolbox — similar to a personal trainer or bypass surgeon.” Dr. Mitchell never imposes his own will into the process, but rather presents the options and helps patients to realize their own goals and objectives. “Every patient is different and has a different set of concerns and priorities that we work as a team to address,” he says. “Patients are active participants in what we do. We’re here to help them get to where they want to be.”

BENGTSON CENTER FOR AESTHETICS AND PLASTIC SURGERY 555 MidTowne Street, NE • Suite 110 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 588-8880 www.bengtsoncenter.com www.facebook.com/bengtsoncenter

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BUSINESS SHOWCASE WITTE TRAVEL & TOURS

Back row left to right(standing): Shelley Kohtz, Karen McGuire, Cathy Bancino, Kristin Andree, Antonia Barczak, Melissa Feenstra Front row left to right (seated): Tammy Wallace, Teri Yonker, Karen Chircop, Deb Gritter

BY J. STAPLETON-BURCH • PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

GIVE THE GIFT OF A MULTIGENERATIONAL FAMILY VACATION

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HEADQUARTERED IN GRAND RAPIDS, West Michigan’s premier travel company, Witte Travel & Tours, has been helping people explore the world since 1975. According to Karen Chircop, who co-owns the company with Bruce KleinWassink and Nate Barendse, one of the most popular travel trends today is multigenerational family vacations. Destinations are as diverse as Disneyworld, all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico, ocean and river cruises, touring the countries of family ancestors — even American dude ranches — and so much more.

Successfully planning such a vacation — especially if relatives are coming together from a wide variety of locales — requires extensive preparation and smart planning. This multi-award-winning agency employs over 30 knowledgeable travel professionals offering clients more than 450 years of combined worldwide travel experience and

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insider knowledge on destinations and accommodations.

“Our goal is to make sure your family vacation is everything you ever dreamed it would be,” Chircop stated.

Witte’s agents are graduates of destination courses offered by tourist boards and The Travel Institute, along with study programs offered by cruise lines, resorts and tour companies. Their clientele reap the benefits of these alliances.

In short, they thoroughly know their stuff and pride themselves in providing top-notch customer care that exceeds expectations. They not only will take care of all of the details in arranging your trip, but Witte also provides trip protection insurance options to protect clients’ investments in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

According to Travel Agent Melissa Feenstra many family trips are a group gift from one family member — maybe a grandparent or an aunt or uncle pro-

viding a special trip for their nieces and nephews. “I have had more than one client tell me, ‘It’s so rewarding to see my family — my children and grandchildren — enjoying time together’,” she said.

Taking on all of the planning and trying to coordinate everybody’s flights and trip details can be a daunting experience, but if all you have to do is sit down with a travel agent, you have one central person that can coordinate everything, from family-centric destinations or cruises with age-appropriate activities, to family-focused accommodations with special amenities. “It’s our passion. It’s what we do,” Feenstra added. “Working with a travel agent also makes the trip a lot more exciting and fun for the family member who is paying for it.”

A multigenerational trip provides families with a bonding opportunity unlike any other. “By committing time together away from the distractions of everyday life, it gives families time to reconnect and really get to know each other again,” Chircop explained.

“Children get to see the fun side of their relatives, hear stories and discover their family history from the older generations in a fun and relaxing setting. It creates wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.”

For the ultimate, worry-free family travel experience, you can rely on Witte Travel & Tours.

WITTE TRAVEL & TOURS 3250 28th Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512 (Across from the Woodland Mall, west of Lowe’s) (616) 942-5112 800 GO WITTE vacation@wittetravel.com www.wittetravel.com

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BY J. STAPLETON-BURCH • PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

KELLER WILLIAMS GRAND RAPIDS – STRUCTURED FOR SUCCESS

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RECOGNIZED FOR MORE THAN a decade as the number one real estate brokerage firm in the Michigan/Ohio region, Keller Williams Grand Rapids ranks among the top 15 out of the more than 700 offices nationwide. The secret to their success is that Keller Williams Realty is an agent-driven company with a solid belief in leadership from the ground up. In order to guarantee their sales associates a vehicle for providing direct input in the operation of the company, their business structure includes a seven-member Associate Leadership Council whose members are culled from among the top twenty percent of its 200-plus agents. Becoming a member of the ALC is among the company’s highest honors. Its members are invited to serve because of their demonstrated leadership skills and aptitude as a men-

tor. They operate as a reliable, positive resource for its entire agent body.

“In essence, our role is to act as our Market Center’s ‘Board of Directors’,” explained ALC member Scott Koop. “We not only support our fellow agents and represent their interests, but are active in the leadership, growth, policy formation, productivity and profitability of our company. We are here to protect and enhance its vitality, culture, and profit-share system, which encourages all of our associates to work together as a team toward shared success.”

The ALC also recruits new agents, directs the advertising budget, oversees their website, and is dedicated to an open-door work environment that provides learning opportunities and encourages information sharing. That’s because training is an important com-

BUSINESS SHOWCASE KELLER WILLIAMS

pany tenet. A high-level web-based real estate education is available to all of their associates, with systems in place to take any agent forward to the next level. This leadership team helps to ensure additional ongoing training opportunities.

The ALC is also a guardian of the company’s people-centered culture, whose primary focus is to serve their clients. However, at Keller Williams, that policy extends to embrace their “family” of agents and the communities in which they operate. “We take care of our own,” Koop continued. “We do whatever we can to help our agents and their families get through difficult times, and we reach out to give back to the community.” For example, when an agent’s family member was diagnosed with leukemia, the team rallied to raise funds for the Leukemia Foundation. This past year, KW-GR adopted Covenant House Academy of Grand Rapids as their own philanthropy and worked diligently to raise funds for its support; they’ve cleaned vacant lots for the Inner City Federal Fund; they support Gilda’s Club; and nationwide, Keller Williams sponsors Red Day, when all company personnel take on charitable works within their communities.

In the final analysis, it’s caring about people that makes the Keller Williams difference. The ALC is there to strengthen that philosophy. Whether buying, selling, seeking real estate consultation services, or considering a career in real estate, you can count on Keller Williams.

KELLER WILLIAMS GRAND RAPIDS Main Office: 630 Kenmoor SE, Grand Rapids (616) 575-1800 www.KellerWilliamsgr.com

Back Row left to right: Jon Jackson, Janet Boos, Judy Brasseur, Scott Koop, Jodi Smith, Susan Stoddard.

Front Row Left to right: Ingrid Nelson, Jessica Tucker, Mary Buckius.

Not Pictured: Ron Hudson

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BUSINESS SHOWCASE JUHAS AND SULLIVAN

BY J. STAPLETON-BURCH • PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

JUHAS AND SULLIVAN KNOWS SHINOLA — DETROIT WATCHES, THAT IS ...

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MOTHERS DAY, GRADUATION, Fathers Day ... they’re all just around the corner. Whatever celebration is looming on your horizon, Juhas and Sullivan Jewelers in the Terrazzo Fine Shops off East Paris Avenue has you covered.

Well renowned for incomparable fine jewelry, owners Jeff Juhas and George Sullivan put just as much thought and care into the designer lines they carry, from coveted bridal collections to world-renowned time pieces. They seek out the best American-made brands and are especially proud to be the only store in the area offering Detroit-based Shinola watches, which have become

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an urban phenomenon intrinsic to the resurgence of Michigan manufacturing.

Classic, classy, fashionable, with easyto-read faces, stylish handcrafted wristbands, and an almost vintage-like vibe, Shinola watches (and pocket watches) are carefully assembled by craftsmen in Detroit. Their wide variety of styles appeal to people of all ages.

“Our customers like the Shinola story almost as much as they love the watches themselves,” Sullivan noted of the former founder of Fossil watches decision to create a new brand and place its manufacture in our nation’s Heartland — a decision which ultimately led them to Detroit, the veritable birthplace of modern American industry. “Shinola is sourcing as much as they can from the U.S.A. It’s a Michigan-based, quality product made from the heart with obvious pride. Everyone just falls in love with them.”

Juhas and Sullivan possess a sincere passion for remarkable jewelry, wrought from their combined decades of experience in the industry. Their love for sharing that expertise with their clientele — no matter what the bud-

get — is obvious in every aspect of the Juhas and Sullivan experience. Their welcoming and relaxed boutique-style jewelry store offers a stellar selection of custom-made and top-quality designer line jewelry, with friendly and knowledgeable personal service provided directly by the owners and jewel-makers themselves. They will help you find the perfect piece to express your emotions.

Their one-of-a-kind custom designs are handcrafted entirely onsite, from the melting of the gold to the finished product, utilizing superior, hand-selected gemstones.

“The way the light dances within a gemstone has everything to do with how it’s cut,” Juhas noted. With a talent for elevating jewelry-making into an interpretive art form, he takes great pleasure in not only creating a design just for you, but also in finding the perfect stone whose characteristics reflect your own.

“We choose every single stone for its own personality because we work oneon-one with our clients to come up with a great design that is unique to them, so I choose our gemstones one-onone.” Their varied selection of unique gemstones — including rare pink and colored diamonds and a dazzling array of sapphires — are inimitable pieces typically found only in much larger markets. “Sapphires are great gemstones because they’re as durable as they are beautiful,” Juhas added. “A lot of young people seek them out as an alternative to diamonds for their engagement and wedding rings.”

Stop by Juhas and Sullivan and see for yourself what all the fuss is about.

Follow them on facebook or visit juhasandsullivan.com for more information.

JEFF JUHAS AND GEORGE SULLIVAN, OWNERS 1100 E. Paris Ave. SE (616) 957-2222 www.juhasandsullivan.com/facebook

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near & far IN OUR BACK YARD / EXPLORING MICHIGAN

“We like that it’s close to everything but still far enough away that we get that neighborhood feel.

It’s exciting because you’ll see neighborhood kids playing football and pickup games, and it just helps you to know it is a great place to raise a family.”

— Jason Faasse

Jason Faasse and Mallory Mate-Faasse play with daughter Evelia, at left. Below, at Kentwood Cat Clinic, Amanda Jenison watches as Dr. Tammy Sadek examines her cat, Tooka, with help from technician Sara Berens.

Bob Brewer opened Brew’s Creations in Floral on Callander Drive two years ago.

Future singing stars Julia, Ella, Mia and Taylor perform in a preschool program at John Knox Presbyterian Church.

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Sixth grade teacher Eric Terry works with Madyson Peless and Jordan Hamilton at Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy in the Millbrook neighborhood.

BY KATELYN SANDOR

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM GEBBEN

What was once the largest parcel of raw land left in Grand Rapids, Millbrook is a place not many call home.

A pleasant place to live

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riving through the Millbrook neighborhood, it’s hard to imagine it was one of the last parcels of raw land in Grand Rapids in the 1970s.

Today the area, bound by 32nd Avenue to the north, Breton Road to the east, 44th Street to the south, and Kalamazoo Avenue to the west, is home to 5,500 people and a smattering of schools, medical facilities and small businesses.

Dave Malefyt and his wife moved into the neighborhood in the early 1970s when Millbrook was being developed. They liked the tree-lined streets, walking trails and easy commute to downtown.

“We lived in a four-bedroom house until our kids were old enough to move out,” he said. “We liked the area so much that we decided to stay in the Millbrook neighborhood and built a small place on Chamberlain Avenue.”

A 1974 Grand Rapids Press article reported the development of the Millbrook area and the remaining parcels of land were a struggle until developers and the Millbrook Homeowners Association began to work together.

Malefyt, 84, says residents wanted to protect the land, insisting developers should be cautious about what and where

building would take place.

In the end, the association and developers reached an agreement that protected much of the natural elements of Millbrook and the residential feel of the neighborhood.

“I still see deer and wild turkeys in my backyard,” said Malefyt, who is an avid nature enthusiast. He’s even developed a sort of travelogue of his backyard that traces the seasons and the changes he’s witnessed throughout the years.

T hough Millbrook no longer has a homeowners association, 10 years ago longtime resident Steve Beukema startAPRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 79

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near & far IN OUR BACK YARD / EXPLORING MICHIGAN

Top left: A view of 44th Street along the southwestern edge of the Millbrook neighborhood.

Above: Plymouth United Church of Christ is located at 4010 Kalamazoo Ave. SE.

The Victorian Queen Anne house at 4040 Kalamazoo Ave. SE once belonged to the Munshaw family, whose farm took up about two-thirds of the land now know as Millbrook. Lambert Munshaw emigrated from Canada to settle in what was then called Paris Township, where he ran a grocery store and his farm.

Earl Munshaw, son of David Munshaw, was a prominent lawyer and went on to become a Michigan state senator.

ed Millbrook Community Bridge Works, a neighborhood watch group.

“It’s about watching out for each other,” said the father of three, who works closely with the Grand Rapids Police Department.

He provides newsletters to more than 300 residents on the watch group’s mailing list.

By providing awareness of the community, both good and bad, he said, “we become a stronger community.”

Jason Faasse and his wife moved into the neighborhood two years ago and welcomed their first child last fall.

“We like that it’s close to everything but still far enough away that we get that neighborhood feel,” he said. “It’s exciting

because you’ll see neighborhood kids playing football and pickup games, and it just helps you to know it is a great place to raise a family.”

There are public and private schools in Millbrook, including Sherwood Park Global Studies Academy on Chamberlain Avenue, a magnet school in the Grand Rapids Public School district.

Arnetta T hompson, principal at the school, describes Millbrook as a quiet neighborhood.

“At Sherwood, we do our best to help provide opportunities for families to get to know one another.”

T hat sentiment is echoed by Robin

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“At our church, we’re seeing a lot of immigrants and their families moving into the area and looking for a place to worship. It really is incredible to help them navigate West Michigan and make our home their home.” — Mike Baynai

Peless, who has three daughters attending the school. As leader of the Parent Involvement T eam, she organizes events that bring the community together, including carnivals and movie night.

“Sherwood sits back from any main roads, so you have to know what you are looking for to find it,” said Peless. “T he opportunities and support both inside and outside of the classroom are great.”

Mike Baynai, pastor of John Knox Presbyterian Church, says Millbrook is a “welcoming community.”

T he church runs a food pantry that is open to all members of the community, regardless of age, gender, race or religion.

“At our church, we’re seeing a lot of immigrants and their families moving into the area and looking for a place to worship,” explained Baynai. “It really is incredible to help them navigate West Michigan and make our home their home.”

While mostly residential, Millbrook has a few small businesses that have thrived for many years.

Kentwood Cat Clinic, on the corner of 32nd and Breton Road, serves more than 2,000 clients each year, said owner T ammy Sadek, who is board certified in feline practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners.

“We’ve been at this location for 15 years and we are happy here.”

T here’s also some new growth. Spectrum Health System is building a new rehab and nursing facility at 4118 Kalamazoo Ave. that is expected to open in 2016.

Along the southern edge of the neighborhood is a flower shop known to customers as the “green” flower company.

Brew’s Creations in Floral, a family business that uses natural, organic products, opened at 4340 Callander Drive SE two years ago.

Owner Bob Brewer, who has 10 years working in the floral industry, found that the shop location in Millbrook was the perfect place in “a friendly neighborhood close to the centrality of the city of Grand GR Rapids.”

2015 TRILLIUM AWARD

2015 WEST MICHIGAN HONOREES

F E AT U R E D S P E A K E R

Rachael Chong, Founder & CEO of Catchafire

Rachael Chong is founder and CEO of Catchafire, the nation’s leading online pro bono network that connects talent and purpose.

Chong is a social entrepreneur and a visionary leader. Prior to Catchafire, she helped start up BRAC USA by strategically utilizing pro bono talent. Fresh off this success, Chong founded Catchafire in 2009 with a vision to create a more efficient and effective social good sector, and a world where it is commonplace to serve for the greater good. Catchafire has been featured in The New York Times, Mashable, NPR, FOX Business, CNN Money, Crain’s, Forbes, Fast Company, TechCrunch and Daily Candy. In 2012, Chong received the prestigious NYC Venture Fellowship, the Tribeca Disruptive Innovation Award, and was named one of Fast Company’s most 100 creative people in Business 2012. She has a Master of Public Policy Degree from Duke University and graduated magna cum laude from Barnard College at Columbia University.

Michigan Women’s Foundation is devoted to fostering economic empowerment for the state’s women and girls through philanthropy and investment.

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

april events

A FEW GREAT THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH!

April 17-18 THE GREAT BREW HA HA: The Great Brew Ha Ha returns to the Deltaplex. Comedy meets craft beers at this festival that features more than 100 craft beers from 40-plus breweries — and nationally known comedians. 1013thebrew.com/common/ brew-ha-ha SPORTS APRIL 25 HURT THE DIRT: About 500 runners compete in a quarter-, half- or full marathon on a 100 percent pure dirt, single-

APRIL 3 - MY BIG FAT GREEK DINNER:

Don’t forget to mark your calendar!

A class honoring the Greek understanding of food at Downtown Market, for ages 21 and over. downtownmark etgr.com. See Lectures & Workshops

track trail through woods and fields, along marshes and across a creek. The race takes place at Luton Park in Rockford. Cash prizes and handcrafted trophies will be awarded. After the race, celebrate with a pig roast, with veggie and fruit sides. hurtthedirt.com MUSIC APRIL 28 SUFJAN STEVENS: Calvin College hosts indie folk singer-songwriter known for mixing “autobiography, religious fantasy and regional history.” The Michigan native, a Hope College grad, is best known for his album “Illinois.”

Special guest is Little Scream. See calvin. edu/boxoffice for ticket information.

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APRIL 11-12 - GR COMCON & WEST MICHIGAN GAMING CONVENTION: Comics, sci-fi, movies, action toys, FX, art and more at 28th Street Showplace. grcomcon.com.

See Special Events

PHOTOGRAPHY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY WD PHOTOGRAPHY; EMMANUEL AFOLABI ; JAMIE GEYSBEEK PHOTOGRAPHY; THINKSTOCK

SPECIAL EVENTS APRIL 10 ART.DOWNTOWN: Avenue for the Arts presents Art.Downtown 2015. From 6-11 p.m., 400 artists will show their work and musicians will perform at more than 30 locations around downtown. Meet artists, curators and shop owners and talk to them about their endeavors. Trolleys will provide free transport between major venues. avenueforthearts.com/artdowntown

APRIL 14 - JOE BONAMASSA: American blues-rock guitarist, singer and songwriter who opened for B.B. King when he was 12 performs at DeVos Performance Hall.

See Music

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

Calendar Editor, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, e-mail caleditor@ geminipub.com, fax (616) 459-4800. High-resolution photos welcomed. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue by the 15th of the month.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Community Center, 421 Columbus St.

April 3 - Circle Theatre Season Kickoff: “Keep the Change: T he Musical Stories of Harry Chapin” benefits Kids’ Food Basket.

7:30 p.m. Aquinas College PAC, 1607 Robinson Road SE. $20 (456-6656 or circle theatre.org).

April 11-12 - GR COMcon & West Michigan Gaming Convention: Comics, sci-fi, movies, action figure toys, FX and art, plus gaming tournament and more. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. 28th St. Showplace, 1256 28th St. SW, Wyoming. $5 Sat. or Sun., $8 both days. grcomcon.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY WD PHOTOGRAPHY; EMMANUEL AFOLABI ; JAMIE GEYSBEEK PHOTOGRAPHY; THINKSTOCK

April 4 - LadyfestGR: Fourth annual celebration of female art, music and community, including local and national performers and concerts. At various locations in Heartside and downtown GR. ladyfestgr.com.

April 7-9 - “Carnival of the Animals”: GR Ballet presents a spring break event for kids, with costume dress-up, temporary tattoos and ballet class, followed by a kid-friendly ballet. 11 a.m. activities, 11:30 a.m. performance, and 1 p.m./1:30 p.m. Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth SW. $5. grballet. com.

April 10 - Art.Downtown: Downtown GR art hop with 400 artists, 38 destinations, three free trolleys, live music. Maps and volunteers provide guidance. 6-11 p.m. avenuefor thearts.com.

April 11 - Jake’s Music Festival: 11th annual local music concert and silent auction supports Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Bands include Potato Babies, Jesse Ray and Carolina Catfish, T ruckstop Cobras, Fathom 19 and Spinal T ap tribute band Sext Farm. 6-11 p.m. Wealthy T heatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. Free; donations encouraged. jakesmusicfestival.com.

April 11 - Lakeshore Community Expo: Grand Haven features businesses, entertainment and “Frozen”-themed activities for kids including photos with characters and indoor parade. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Grand Haven

APRIL 16 - MYTHBUSTERS JAMIE & ADAM UNLEASHED!: Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage from the Discovery Channel’s “Mythbusters” perform experiments and tell behind-the-scenes stories.

See Stage & Film

April 17 - Noto’s Charity Wine Fest: Live music, silent auction, 300 wines, appetizers, food and desserts. Benefits Franciscan Life Process Center, Greater Grand Rapids Chefs Association and other local nonprofits. 7-10 p.m.; 6 p.m. VIP. Noto’s restaurant, 6600 28th St. SE. $60, $100 VIP (notosoldworld.com or lifeprocesscenter.org) or $65/$110 (at door).

April 17-18 - Chilly Blues Festival: Grand Haven’s annual Chili Cook-Off and Blues Festival. Various venues; cook-off at Snug Harbor, 311 S. Harbor. harborrestaurants. com/snugharbor.

April 17-18 - Military Antiques Show: Uniforms, gear, weapons, medals and awards from all conflicts. 5-9 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sat. Knights of Columbus, 5830 Clyde Park SW, Wyoming. $5 adults, $2 veterans, under 12 free. supermilitariashows.com.

April 17-18 - The Great Brew Ha Ha: Comedy and craft beers from more than 40 breweries from all over the country. DeltaPlex.

1013thebrew.com/common/brew-ha-ha or Facebook.

April 18 - Fashion and Tea: Tour the Public Museum’s Streets of Old Grand Rapids and then see fashion from the Civil War era through the early 20th century, plus sweets and tea. 2-4 p.m. 272 Pearl St. NW. $15, $13 members (front desk, 929-1700, or grmu seum.org).

APRIL 20 - 100 YEARS OF BROADWAY: Performances from the stars of “Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and more. Forest Hills FAC. fhfineartscenter. com. See Stage & Film

APRIL 23 - LUNAFEST: Fundraising film festival of films by, for and about women benefits Kent County Girls on the Run and Breast Cancer Fund. kcgotr.org. See Special Events

Serving the finest Italian & American cuisine in our family dining & banquet rooms, or enjoy the fun in West Michigan’s favorite sports bar & patio!

Best of 2014-15 Readers Poll

Happy Hour

Banquets & Catering ROCKFORD

19 N. MAIN ST 616.866.0666 616.866.0065 TAKE OUT

GRANDVILLE

3940 RIVERTOWN PWY 616.249.9344 616.249.9370 TAKE OUT

CALEDONIA

8256 BROADMOOR SE 616.891.1100 .

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4787 LAKE MICHIGAN DR 616.735.5520 616.735.5522 TAKE OUT

GRAND RAPIDS 2630 EAST BELTLINE SE 616.954.2002 616.954.6702 TAKE OUT

FRANCHISING AVAILABLE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION WWW.UCCELLOS.COM APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 83

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

The B.O.B: The Big Old Building houses several entertainment options: dueling pianos at Bobarino’s Tue.-Sat.; DJs and dance floor at Eve on weekends; live music at House of Music and Entertainment (HOME); and stand-up comedy at Dr. Grins (see below).

20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com.

April 16

1/ Free concert by The Bright Light Social Hour at Founders Brewing Co.

Diversions: Nightclub offers video bar, dance floor, karaoke, special events.

10 Fountain St. NW, 451-3800, diversions nightclub.com.

Dr. Grins Comedy Club: Nationally acclaimed stand-up comedians perform 9 p.m.

Thu., 8 and 10:30 p.m. Fri. and Sat. The B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com/drgrinscomedy J. Gardellas: Dance Club Fri. and Sat. nights on third floor features DJ. 11 Ionia Ave. SW, 459-8824, jgardellastavern.com.

Grand Rapids Brewing Co.: Restaurant and taproom features live music Fri., Sat. and Sun. No cover. 1 Ionia Ave., 458-7000, grbrewingcompany.com.

Grand Woods Lounge: Restaurant/bar with dance floor, DJs Thu.-Sat. 77 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-4300, grandwoodslounge.com.

Monte’s Lounge: Drink specials and dancing Fri. and Sat. 438 Bridge St. NW, 774-5969, monteslounge.com.

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

Pop Scholars: Comedy improv team incorporates skits with audience participation.

Performs at various venues, see website. popscholars.com.

The Pyramid Scheme: Heartside pub and live music venue. Tickets: fusionshows.com, Vertigo Music and Pyramid Scheme front bar.

68 Commerce Ave. SW, 272-3758, pyramid schemebar.com.

River City Improv: Comedy team weaves skits, games and songs with audience suggestions. Shows every other Sat. Ladies Literary Club, 61 Sheldon Blvd. SE. Tickets: rivercityimprov.com, Calvin box office, 5266282, or at door.

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

Stella’s Whisky Lounge: Drink features and DJs every Fri. and Sat. 53 Commerce Ave. SW, 742-4444, stellasgr.com.

Sunday Night Funnies: Midwest comics perform 8:30 p.m. Sun. Riverfront Hotel’s Landing Lounge, 270 Ann St. NW, Facebook.

Comedy & nightclub venues COMPILED BY MORIAH GILBERT

1/ FOUNDERS BREWING CO.: Bringing a new genre called psychedelic southern rock, The Bright Light Social Hour performs at 9:30 p.m.

April 16 in the Taproom. The band’s innovative vision of rock and roll won them six awards at SXSW 2011 Austin Music Awards. The concert is free; 21+ only. 235 Grandville Ave. SW, 7761195, foundersbrewing.com.

2/ On April 16, GRiZ will perform at 2/ THE INTERSECTION: GRiZ performs April The Intersection.

16 at 8 p.m., along with special guests Exmag, Muzzy Bearr and Artifakts. GRiZ finds a golden mean between brass instruments, liberal use of soulful vocals and shimmering, synth beats. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 day of 3/ Big Sandy will show, available at the box office. 133 Grandville play at Tip Top with Ave. SW, 451-8232, sectionlive.com. his Fly-Rite Boys.

3/ TIP TOP DELUXE BAR & GRILL: Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys take the stage 7 p.m.

April 21. The band has been together for 25 years, playing genres from rock and roll to soul. Tickets are $10; 21+ only. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910. Check Facebook for more information.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY POONEH GHANA (TOP); GRIZ (CENTER); LACE PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTTOM)

Mulligan’s Pub: Bar and music venue in Eastown. No cover charge. 1518 Wealthy St. SE, 451-0775, mulligans-pub.com.

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April 18 - Lakeshore Earth Day Celebration: Events include a march from the county courthouse to the community center, environmental fair and Earth Rock Concert.

Downtown Grand Haven. visitgrandhaven. com.

April 18 - Spring Tree and Shrub Sale: Kent Conservation District’s annual tree, shrub and plant sale for gardeners and landscapers. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 3260 Eagle Park Drive NE. kentconservation.org.

April 18 - Women Everywhere Expo: Second annual event with 60 booths about health, finance, travel, shopping, plus speakers. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Doubletree by Hilton, 650 E. 24th St., Holland. $3 or three nonperishable food donations.

April 20 - Meijer Gardens’ 20th Anniversary/Sculpture Unveiling: T he Gardens unveils a major acquisition, “Iron T ree,” by Beijing sculptor Ai Weiwei, as part of its 20th anniversary celebration. 6:30 p.m. Lecture

by Joseph Becherer about the artist and his career follows. RSVP: 975-3144 or skilroy@ meijergardens.org. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. meijergardens.org.

April 21 - Blue Tie Ball: West Michigan Environmental Action Council fundraiser with cocktails, dinner, auction and presentation of the George Heartwell Environmental Legacy Award. 6-10 p.m. Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St. SW. $75, $60 members. wmeac.org.

April 21-23 - Used Book Sale: Women’s City Club annual book sale. 254 E. Fulton St. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Tue., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wed., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Thu. wccgr.org.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY POONEH GHANA (TOP); GRIZ (CENTER); LACE PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTTOM)

April 22 - Women of Achievement and Courage Awards: Michigan Women’s Foundation’s 26th annual luncheon event.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St. NW. T ickets T BD (765-4230 or jwelchmiwf. org). miwf.org.

We invite you to help us celebrate our 15th year of serving you award winning authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Downtown Grand Rapids.

Free dessert with your lunch or dinner rnn

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April 23 - Lunafest: Fundraising film festival of films by, for and about women; benefiting Kent County Girls on the Run and Breast Cancer Fund. 5:30 p.m. reception, 6:45 p.m. films. GR Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center St. NW. $40 (kcgotr.org).

April 23 - Bringing Literacy to Life: SLD Read fundraiser and presentation of Kathryn T immer Literacy Award. 6 p.m. Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St. SW. $75. sldread.org/ calendar/bringing-literacy-life.

April 25 - Joe’s Big Race: Camp Roger hosts an “Amazing Race”-style day for teams of four, benefiting camp’s financial aid fund.

Continued on page 88

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liner notes

BY KEVIN VANANTWERPEN

“Looking back, it was too easy, almost. I’ve worked my entire life to do something in the music industry, and I felt like the minute I wasn’t looking for it, it was offe ed to me.”

— Tommee Profit

After touring as a Christian praise-andworship artist for a dozen years, Tommee Profitt opened a recording studio in his Grand Rapids home.

TEAMING UP AND GOING BIG record producer T ommee Profitt and Gladwin-based hiphop artist Nate Feuerstein (performing under the name NF) have been signed to Capitol Records Christian Music Group.

T he sudden turn of success came after both had spent years forging their way in the music industry.

Profitt cut his teeth on 12 years of touring as a Christian praise-and-worship artist, but eventually felt a chasm between road-life and family life. After some soul searching, he opted to open a recording studio in the basement of his Grand Rapids home. Within a week, he’d booked more than six months of work.

“It was crazy,” Profitt said. “I feel like even after the first six months of producing, I had more opportunities than I did in 12 years on the road.”

Feuerstein had been honing his craft as a hip-hop artist when he asked Profitt to collaborate on a song or two. Profitt had heard of Feuerstein’s work from a friend and the two recorded what would eventually become “Wake Up” — the song that would land Feuerstein and Profitt the record deal.

“It’s insane how quickly he can work,” Profitt said. “I can start writing a beat, and he’ll sit on the couch, and before it’s even finished he has a fully functional set of lyrics and is ready to go with it.”

T he track made high-chemistry of Feuerstein’s knack for hip-hop along with a heavily cinematic score written by Profitt.

“My background is in very cinematic music and pop, and I wasn’t so familiar with hiphop,” Profitt said. “Then he comes in and pulls me further in the direction of hip-hop than I would naturally go — it makes a very good marriage.”

The track brought three label offers. When Feuerstein accepted Capitol Records CMG, he insisted he work with Profitt again. T he two traveled to sign the deal — Profitt unaware he would be signed, as well.

“I wasn’t expecting it at all,” he said. “In fact, I almost didn’t go with him on the trip; I was busy here. But he builds his camp around him and he’s very loyal. He wants to stick with the people he knows work well with him.

“Looking back, it was too easy, almost.

I’ve worked my entire life to do something in the music industry, and I felt like the minute I wasn’t looking for it, it was offered to me.”

Feuerstein quietly released his debut EP, “NF,” last August, with a full-length album titled “Mansion” scheduled to release March 31.

“We feel like the album will make people forget about the EP — it’s bigger sounding and it’s way more raw.”

T he album opens with a blistering cinematic track, heavy with drum, bass and orchestral effects. Feuerstein raps at a speed that would make a punk-rock drummer envious.

“The intro is incredible,” Profitt said.

“It’s one of the most ridiculous things I’ve heard in my life. It’s basically this big movie soundtrack — picture Godzilla walking in and Nate’s just killing it, rapping super fast over the top of it.”

T he track includes more than a few lines about Feuerstein’s thankfulness for the people who worked with him and made his passion a career.

Meanwhile, despite his rigorous schedule

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Teaming up and going big

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CAPITOL CHRISTIAN MUSIC GROUP

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

“Mansion” — the first full-length album by Gladwin-based hip-hop artist Nate Feuerstein, who performs under the name NF.

studio schedule, Profitt released his sixth and most-successful studio album, “Deeper,” last November.

“T his is the first album I did without pursuing a label, management or radio,” Profitt said.

“As a producer, I got very creative. It’s big, it’s epic sounding, and it also sounds like a movie soundtrack. It’s fun to make an album where you can do exactly what you want.”

The album veers away from the praiseand-worship conventions Profitt was used to.

“I feel like in the past, I’d kept it safe, as far as contemporary Christian music,” he said.

“I think this sounds unique — it sounds bigger, fuller and better. It’s probably a little bit more electronic than I’ve experimented with in the past.

“That tends to be my wheelhouse these days. Every project, I ask, ‘Just how epic can we make this?’”

You can find music from both T ommee Profitt and NF on most major online distributors.

— Kevin VanAntwerpen has been a part of the Michigan music scene since he was a teenager, from playing in bands to writing about them.

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Continued from page 85

SPORTS

9 a.m.-3 p.m. 8356 Belding Road, Rockford. camproger.org.

April - Grand Rapids Drive: National Basketball Association D-League team is primary affiliate of Detroit Pistons. Home games: April 1 vs. Sioux Falls Skyforce. April 3 vs. Erie Bayhawks. T imes vary. DeltaPlex. $10-$30, $44 family 4-pack (nba.com/dlea gue/grandrapids).

April 25 - March for Babies: March of Dimes annual three-mile walk supports healthy pregnancies. 9 a.m. registration, 10:30 a.m. walk. Farmers Insurance Campus, 5600 Beechtree, Caledonia. marchforbabies.org or marchofdimes.com/Michigan.

April 25 - West Michigan Potters Guild Spring Show: 25th annual pottery show and sale. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cultural Center at St. Nicholas, 2250 East Paris Ave. SE. west michiganpottersguild.com.

April 26 - Allegan Antiques Market: 400 exhibitors (200 inside, 200 outside) rain or shine. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive. $4. alleganantiques.com.

April 26 - Museums Free 4 All: GR Art Museum, GR Children’s Museum, GR Public Museum and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum offer free admission and free shuttle rides to participating museums. Noon-5 p.m.

April 26 - Walk for Autism Awareness: Autism Support of Kent County’s 2.5K walk includes activities for all ages, music, silent auction, Community Resource Fair and art gallery. Noon-3 p.m., walk begins 1 p.m.

Kuyper College, 3333 East Beltline Ave. NE. autismsupportofkentcounty.org.

April 29 - Aquinas Outstanding Woman Awards: Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s Studies Center 13th annual event celebrates female students, staff, faculty and alumnae.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Donnelly Center, Aquinas College, 1607 Robinson Road SE. aquinas. edu/womenscenter/programs.html.

April 30 - A Night With the Opera: Opera Grand Rapids annual fundraiser and celebration, T osca on Stage, with live music, entertainment and food. 5:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall (stage). $150. operagr.org/ night-with-the-opera.

April 30 - Dining Out for Life: Grand Rapids Red Project annual fundraiser. More than 30 local restaurants donate portion of customers’ bills to Red Project, supporting people and communities affected by HIV/AIDS. See diningoutforlife.com/grandrapids.

April 30 - Hometown Heroes Celebration: American Red Cross fundraiser includes program to honor community heroes, strolling dinner, dessert and live/silent auctions. 6 p.m. DeVos Place Steelcase Ballroom. $150 (redcross.org/mi/grand-rapids).

April - Grand Rapids Griffins: American Hockey League team is primary affiliate of Detroit Red Wings. Home games: April 1 vs.

Rockford IceHogs. April 4 vs. Toronto Marlies.

April 8 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. April 17-18 vs. Charlotte Checkers. T imes vary. Van Andel Arena. $14-$32 (box office, Meijer or Star Tickets). griffinshockey.com.

April - West Michigan Whitecaps: Professional minor league baseball team is a member of the Midwest League and Class A affiliate of the Detroit T igers. Home games: April 9-11 vs. Dayton Dragons. April 12-14 vs. Great Lakes Loons. April 18-20 vs. Fort Wayne T inCaps. April 28-30 vs. South Bend Cubs.

Game times vary, see website. Fifth T hird Ballpark, Comstock Park. $7-$15 (ticket office, 800-CAPS-WIN, whitecapsbaseball. com).

April 10-12 - Lubbers Cup Regatta: Co-ed collegiate rowing races (GVSU, Eastern, MSU, U-M, Purdue University, University of Illinois). Spring Lake Yacht Club, 17500 W. Spring Lake Road. lubberscup.com.

April 19 - Gazelle Girl: Women’s half marathon and 5K, benefiting Kent County Girls on the Run, West Central Michigan YWCA and GROW. 8 a.m. Rosa Parks Circle, 1 Monroe Center. $85 half marathon, $30 5K. gazelle girlhalfmarathon.com.

April 25 - Calvin 5K Spring Classic: Calvin Alumni Association hosts run/walk and family fun run. Entry fees go toward scholarships.

9 a.m. Hoogenboom Health and Recreation Center, Calvin College. $35 5K; $8 kids run. calvin.edu/classic.

April 25 - Hurt the Dirt: 10K, half marathon and marathon trail race. 8 a.m.; kids fun run 11 a.m. Luton Park, 5865 Kies St. NE, Rockford. $32 10K, $42 half marathon, $52 marathon. hurtthedirt.com.

April 25 - Lamont 5K River Run: Lamont Christian Schools sixth annual race, plus Gator Gallop for kids 8 and under, and postrace pancake breakfast. 8 a.m. Begins at Lamont CRC, 4745 Leonard St., Coopersville, and ends at Lamont Christian School, 5260 Leonard St. $20. lamontcs.org.

April 25 - Rivertown Races: Half marathon

and 5K run and walk. 8 a.m. Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW, Walker. $70 half marathon, $36 5K, $34 kids under 12. rivertownraces.com.

April 25-26 - Lakeshore Volleyfest: Michigan Amateur Athletic Union Super Regional volleyball tournament for girls 11-18. Public welcome. DeVos Place. devosplace.org.

STAGE & FILM April 7-25 - “January Thaw”: Holland Civic Theatre presents a comedy about two families living in one house. 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m.

Sun. 50 W. 9th St., Holland. $20 adults, $18 seniors, $10 students (616-396-2021 or hollandcivictheatre.org).

April 16 - MythBusters Jamie & Adam Unleashed!: On-stage experiments, audience participation, videos and behind-thescenes stories with Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, co-hosts of the Discovery series “MythBusters.” 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $45-$75 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).

April 16 - Theresa Caputo Live!: Psychic medium and star of T LC show “Long Island Medium.” 7:30 p.m. Van Andel Arena. $39.75$89.75 (Van Andel and DeVos Place box offices or Ticketmaster).

April 16-19 - “I Hate Hamlet”: Aquinas College Theatre presents a play about a young man who seemingly has it all. 8 p.m., 2 p.m.

Sun. Aquinas College PAC, 1607 Robinson Road SE. $10 adults, $5 students (456-6656). aquinas.edu/theatre.

April 16-19 - “Movemedia II”: Grand Rapids Ballet’s contemporary dance series features new choreography. 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. Sun. Peter Martin Wege T heatre, 341 Ellsworth SW. $25, $12 college students (box office or Ticketmaster). grballet.com.

April 16-26 - “Death of a Salesman”: Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids presents a story about one man’s quest to achieve the American Dream. 8 p.m., 3 p.m. Sun. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $20 adults, $18 seniors, $5 students (box office or 234-3946). jtgr.org.

April 16-May 2 - “The Beverly Hillbillies”: Master Arts T heatre presents hilarity in the discovery of oil, hi-falutin’ Beverly Hills society and absurd adventures. 7:30 p.m. T hu.Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. 75 77th St. SW. $16 adults, $14 seniors and students (455-1001 or masterarts.org).

April 17 - “Dancing Pros: Live”: Broadway Grand Rapids presents live dancing com-

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petition hosted by Alan T hicke. 8 p.m.

DeVos Performance Hall. $27.50-$62.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). broadwaygrandrapids.com.

April 18 - “The Great Divorce”: C.S. Lewis’ story of lost souls as they take a bus ride to heaven. 4 and 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $31.50-$91.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster).

April 19-22 - DisArt Film Festival: UICA hosts a series of lectures and films about disability and art. 6-9 p.m. UICA, 2 W. Fulton St. uica.org. Free.

April 23 - Real to Reel Series: Saugatuck Center for the Arts presents the film “Art and Craft.” 7 p.m. 400 Culver St. $7, $5 members and students. sc4a.org.

April 23-25 - “It Is Well”: T urning Pointe School of Dance presents an original ballet about a young Dutch woman’s efforts in the Dutch Resistance during WWII. 7 p.m. T hu. and Fri., 2 and 7 p.m. Sat. Knickerbocker T heatre, 86 E. 8th St., Holland. $17 adults, $13 students (Hope College ticket office, 395-7890); $19/$15 (at door). turningpointe dance.org.

Lunch: 11a-3p Mon-Fri Dinner: 5p-11 Mon-Sat, 4p Sun Brunch/Lunch: 10a-3 Sat-Sun

April 23-May 2 - “Pride and Prejudice”: Calvin College presents Jane Austen’s beloved story about the business of marriage.

7:30 p.m. Gezon Auditorium, 3201 Burton St. SE. $9 T hu., $10 Fri.-Sat., $5 students and children (526-6282 or calvin.edu/boxoffice), $15/$8 (at door).

April 24 - Lewis Black: Stand-up comedian performs “The Rant is Due: Part Deux” tour. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $35.50-$59.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster).

April 24-May 3 - “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day”: GR Civic Theatre presents a children’s musical about a boy’s worst day. 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m.

Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $10-$16 (222-6650 or grct.org).

April 30-May 3 - “Peter Pan”: Muskegon Civic T heatre presents the story of a boy who never grows up. 7:30 p.m., 3 p.m. Sun. Frauenthal Center, Muskegon. $22 adults, $20 students and seniors (box office or Star Tickets). muskegoncivictheatre.org.

April 30-May 3 - “The Sorcerer”: A two-act comic opera by Gilbert & Sullivan, presented

by West Michigan Savoyards. See website for times. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE. $18 adults, $15 seniors, $9 students; $9 all seats 1 p.m. Fri. westmichigansavoyards. org.

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MUSIC April 7 - La Dispute: An alternative show by Grand Rapids post-hardcore band to benefit Division Avenue Arts Collective. 8 p.m.

Calvin College FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE. $20 (Calvin box office, 526-6282, or calvin. edu/boxoffice).

April 10 - MAJIC Concert Series: Musical Arts for Justice in the Community hosts DuoT andem. 7:30 p.m. Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave. SW. $10 suggested donation; proceeds benefit GR Coalition to End Homelessness. majicingr.org.

April 10, 24 - Alley Door Club: Jazz, blues and folk in downtown Muskegon. April 10, Westside Soul Surfers. April 24, Yard Sale Underwear. 7-10 p.m., doors open 6 p.m.

Frauenthal Theatre, Muskegon. $7 at door or in advance (231-727-8001).

April 12 - Metropolitan Choir of Praise: Choir presents its spring concert. 7:30 p.m. 1st Byron CRC, 2450 85th St., Byron Center. Freewill offering. metropolitanchoir.org.

April 14 - Joe Bonamassa: Blues-rock guitarist performs. 8 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall. $89-$125 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster).

April 16-17 - Mighty Wurlitzer Concerts: Pub­ lic Museum’s theater organ concert features David Russell. 7-9 p.m. Thu., 2-4 p.m. Fri. 272 Pearl St. NW. $10 adults, $5 children 3-17, $8/$4 members (ticket counter or 456-3977).

April 17 - Coffee Classics Series: GR Symphony hour-long Baroque Coffee Concert with complimentary coffee and pastries one hour before concert. 10 a.m.

Royce Auditorium, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $12 and up (DeVos Place or Van Andel box offices or T icketmaster). grsymphony.org.

April 17 - Crowe Horwath Great Eras Series: GR Symphony presents The Baroque Concert with guest conductor Garry Clarke.

8 p.m. Royce Auditorium, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $26 and up (DeVos Place or Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org.

April 17 - Hot Club of Cowtown: Gypsy jazz trio performs. 8 p.m. Saugatuck Center for the

Last chance to view Water at GRAM If you haven’t seen the photo exhibition Ed Burtynsky: Water at Grand Rapids Art Museum, be sure to check it out before its last day April 26.

T he photographer addresses the various roles water plays in the world: agriculture, aquaculture, control (dams, irrigation and flood control), distress (think oil spills), waterfront and source.

“T he sheer variety in which he explores each theme is amazing,” says GRAM Executive Director Dana Friis-Hansen, who saw the exhibit at the New Orleans Museum of Art and knew it would be perfect for Grand Rapids — a city named for water.

At a preview of the exhibition, Mayor George Heartwell said, “We know the power of water when we saw our Grand River overflowing its banks in 2013 — how powerful it is. And yet we know how fragile it is.”

Heartwell added he and other mayors in the U.S. and Canada “are working collectively to ensure that our Great Lakes waters will forever be clean and preserved for generations to follow.”

GRAM has devoted multiple galleries on two floors to the large photos — more space than the museum has given to any one artist.

“Just to brag, both the artist and curator said the photos have never looked better,” Friis-Hansen says. “The building was built for this kind of show.”

Expect to see more exhibitions at GRAM with a theme of sustainability. T he downtown building gained recognition in 2007 as the first newly built art museum to achieve LEED Gold certification for energy efficiency.

Friis-Hansen doesn’t want GRAM to rest on its laurels.

“We are selecting exhibitions and collecting works that are related to sustainability and the earth,” he said. “It’s written into our strategic plan.”

Arts, 400 Culver St. $36. sc4a.org.

April 17 - The Hit Men: West Michigan Symphony presents hits by Frankie Valli and T he Four Seasons, T ommy James and T he Shondells, T he Critters, Jim Croce and Carly Simon. 7:30 p.m. Frauenthal T heater, Muskegon. $28.75-$58.75 (231-726-3231 or westmichigansymphony.com).

April 18 - Classics III: Celebrating a Milestone: Holland Symphony Orchestra hosts T om T urner, viola. 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Auditorium, Zeeland East High School, 3333 96th Ave., Zeeland. $19 adults and seniors, $5 students (796-6780, hollandsymphony.org).

April 18 - Crowe Horwath MusicNOW Series: GR Symphony presents Brilliante with music by George Walker, Tan Dun, Tuur and Stewart Goodyear. 8 p.m. Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth SW. $18 and up

(DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). grsymphony.org.

April 18 - The Block Concerts: West Michigan Symphony presents Neil Jacobs, 12-string guitarist. 7:30 p.m. T he Block, 360 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. $25 (231-7263231 or westmichigansymphony.com).

April 20 - Monday Night Jazz: West Michigan Jazz Society presents T ony Reynolds T rio. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bobarino’s at The B.O.B, 20 Monroe Ave. NW. $10, $5 members and students. wmichjazz.org.

April 22 - 100 Years of Broadway: Performances by stars from Broadway’s “T he Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables,” “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Jekyll & Hyde.”

7:30 p.m. Forest Hills FAC, 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE. $26-$40 (box office or T icketmaster). fhfineartscenter.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EDWARD BURTYNSKY

April 30-May 3 - A World Premiere by Laura Uzarski: Stark T urn Players present a world premiere by the winner of last year’s 10-minute playwriting competition. 8 p.m.

T hu.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Dog Story T heater, 7 Jefferson Ave. SE. $14 adults, $8 seniors and students. starkturnplayers.org.

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April 23 - Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Series: Co-artistic directors David Finckel, cello, and Wu Han, piano, perform with Arnaud Sussmann, violin, and Matthew Lipman, viola. 7:30 p.m. St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $35$40 adults, $10 students (459-2224, scmconline.org).

April 24 - Acoustic Café Series: St. Cecilia Music Center presents nationally touring folk musicians and bands in collaboration with radio show “Acoustic Café” and host Rob Reinhart. T his month: Rhiannon Giddens and Bhi Bhiman. 7:30 p.m. 24 Ransom Ave. NE. $30 (459-2224, scmc-online.org).

April 24 - LiveArts: GR Symphony performs with Symphony Chorus, Youth Choruses, Youth Symphony, GR Ballet, Opera Grand Rapids and Broadway Grand Rapids. 8 p.m. Van Andel Arena. $24.50-$69.50 (DeVos Place and Van Andel box offices or Ticketmaster). liveartsgr.org.

April 25 - Groovewalk: Walk or take the GrooveXpress to hear 10 bands at 10 locations in downtown Holland. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. $10 in advance or $15 night of. groovewalk.com.

April 28 - Sufjan Stevens: Indie folk/pop singer-songwriter with special guest Little Scream. 8 p.m. Calvin College FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE. $45 (Calvin box office, 526-6282 or calvin.edu/boxoffice).

LECTURES & WORKSHOPS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY EDWARD BURTYNSKY

April - GR Public Libraries: Programs include Reading the Great Lakes, Music in the Stacks: Ghost Heart, Solar Power 101, Ask-a-Lawyer, author visits, computer classes, reading clubs, Cooking Matters, Early Childhood Essentials. Also, Books in Bloom: Spring Break Activities for Kids, EatPlayGrow, literacy classes for babies, toddlers and kids, and Let’s Play workshops. grpl.org.

April - Kent District Libraries: Programs include Creative Canvas Painting, book discussions, Early Childhood Essentials and career transition workshops. Kids programs include Celebrate Spring with Butterflies, T otally T errific T rucks, Gaming Unplugged: Board Game Boredom Busters, author visits, story times. kdl.org.

April 1 - Restoring All Things Conference: Featuring Christian speakers Jim Daly, Jim Liske, John Stonestreet, Jennifer Marshall and Warren Smith, plus Christian musicians.

5:30 p.m. Cornerstone University, 1001 East Beltline Ave. NE. $49; $100 VIP includes meet and greet reception (iT ickets.com). restoringallthings.org.

April 3 - My Big Fat Greek Dinner: Downtown Market Around the World Cooking Series focuses on spanikopita, Greek salad, lamb burgers and semolina syrup cake. 6-8:30 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. $55. downtownmar ketgr.com; click on Classes & Programs.

April 9 - Calvin Passport to Adventure: T ravel film series: “T he Lure and Lore of Deserts” by Sandy Mortimer. 7 p.m. Calvin College FAC, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE. $6 adults, $3 students (calvin.edu/boxoffice or at door). calvin.edu/academic/call/passtick. htm.

April 10, 24 - Grand River Folk Arts Society: Second and Fourth Friday Contra Dance/Jam, dancing and instruction. 7 p.m. Fifth Street Hall, 701 5th St. NW. $9 adults, $7 members, $5 students and seniors. grfolkarts.org.

April 15 - GGR Chapter Mothers and More: Beyond Birds and Bees: T alking to Your Children About Sex and Relationships. 7 p.m.

Studio Space, Schuler Books, 2660 28th St. SE. grmothersandmore.org. Free.

April 16 - Great Start Parent Coalition of Kent County: T his month’s topic: Moving to Learn & Autism Awareness. 5:45-8 p.m.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 250 Commerce Ave. SW. Free dinner, child care. RSVP: 6321007. greatstartkent.org.

April 16 - Hope College V isiting Writer Series: American poet Marvin Bell. Q&A, 3:30 p.m., Fried-Hemenway Auditorium, Room 135, Martha Miller Center. Reading, 7 p.m., Knickerbocker T heater, Holland. Free. hope.edu/vws.

April 18 - Meijer Gardens Lecture: “Japanese Buddhism” by Dr. Stephen Covell. 2 p.m.

1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. Free with admission. meijergardens.org.

April 21 - Dyslexia Seminar: Free info from Dyslexia Correction Foundation, an affiliate of New Chapter Learning. 6:30 p.m.

Grandville Middle School, 3535 Wilson Ave. SW. Registration: 534-1385. newchapter learning.net.

April 21 - Nourishing Ways of West Michigan: “Nutrition for Naturally Straight Teeth” by Karen O’Rourke, DDS. 7-8 p.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 N. Division Ave. Free. nourishingways.org.

April 27 - GR Audubon Club: “Kirtland’s Warbler: Sustaining the Success” by Sara Reding. 7 p.m. social hour, 7:30 p.m. presentation. Orchard View Church, 2777 Leffingwell NE. Public welcome. graud.org.

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out & about WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO

Binder Park Zoo: Opens for season April 16. Animals are exhibited in lush forest setting, including 50-acre Wild Africa exhibit. Open daily.

7400 Division Drive, Battle Creek, (269) 979-1351, binderparkzoo.org.

Blandford Nature Center: 143 acres of trails, exhibits, heritage buildings, farm. Interpretive Center open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, noon-5 p.m.

Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. $3. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 735-6240, blandfordnaturecenter.org.

April

1/ “Waiting for Redemption” is part of GRAM’s David Greenwood: Stop Motion exhibition.

Museums & Attractions

COMPILED BY DONNA FERRARO AND TRICIA VAN ZELST

Coopersville & Marne Railway: Restored 1920s-era railway presents its Bunny Train with the Easter Bunny and other musical characters: 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. April 4. 311 Danforth St., Coopersville. $16.50 adults, $15.50 seniors, $14.50 kids 2-12 (997-7000 for advance tickets) . coopersvilleandmarne.org.

Coopersville Farm Museum: Special events: Acoustic Jam Nights 6-9 p.m. first and third Tue. Kids, Crafts & Critters/Petting Zoo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Sat. Permanent exhibitions: Tractors, quilts, windmill and more. Open Tue., Thu., Sat. $4 adults, $2 ages 4-18, 3 and under free. 375 Main St., Coopersville, 997-8555, coopersvillefarmmuseum.org.

DeGraaf Nature Center: 18-acre preserve with Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch. Closed Sun., Mon., holidays. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. 600 Graafschap Road, Holland, (616 ) 355-1057, cityofholland.com/ degraafnaturecenter. Free.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum: Special

friendly tours 1-4 p.m. Closed Mon., open Thu. until 9 p.m. $8 adults, $7 seniors/students, $5 ages 6-17, 5 and under free; free admission 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue., 5-9 p.m. Thu. 101 Monroe Center, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org.

2/ FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK: Special exhibitions: Thru April 30, Butterflies are Blooming: Hundreds of butterflies hatch from chrysalides in the Butterfly Bungalow and then fly freely in the tropical conservatory. Thru Aug. 16, Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan, objects from the 17th century to the present. Thru Oct. 31, Bernar Venet’s large-scale sculptures.

Special events: April 20, see 20th Anniversary/Sculpture Unveiling in Special Events; also see Lectures & Workshops. Permanent attractions: World-class sculptures indoors and in 30-acre park; tropical conservatory, café, gift shop. Open daily. $12 adults, $9 seniors/students, $6 age 5-13, $4 age 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijergardens.org.

versary will be celebrated April 20 with the unveiling of “Iron Tree” by Ai Weiwei.

May 31, Open Wide, dental health.

Thru Aug. 2, Happy Animal Clinic.

Opening April 30, Little GR. Special events: Spring break activities April 3-12. Earth Day Celebration 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 25. See Museums Free 4 All in Special Events.

Permanent activities: Busy Busy Bees; Bubbles!; Mom and Pop Store; Giant Lite Brite and more.

Toddler Tuesdays 10 a.m.-noon.

Family Night 5-8 p.m. Thu. ($1.75) .

Closed Mon. $8.25, $7.25 seniors, kids under 1 free. 11 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org.

Grand Rapids Public Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru April 19, Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship. Thru July 5, Through the Eyes of Weidenaar, 75 prints and 25 digital images from local artist and printmaker. Special events: April

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID GREENWOOD (TOP); DEAN VAN DIS (BOTTOM)

exhibition: Thru July, Taking the Seas: The Rise 1/ GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Special exhibitions: Thru April 26, Edward Burof the American Aircraft Carrier. Special events: tynsky: Water. Thru May 17, Michigan Artist Series: David Greenwood. Thru Oct. 11, See Museums Free 4 All in Special Events.

GRAM Selects ArtPrize 2014: Encore! April 10-July 31, Art of the Lived Experiment, a Permanent exhibitions: The 1970s, Watergate, three-venue group exhibition that addresses change, adjustment and social percepOval Office, New Mood at the White House. Open daily. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 college students, tions in the lives of disabled people. Permanent exhibitions: 19th and 20th century $3 age 6-18, 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St. NW, art; design and modern craft; prints, drawings, photographs. Special events: See 254-0400, fordlibrarymuseum.gov.

Museums Free 4 All in Special Events. Thursday Nights Grand Rapids Children’s at GRAM: Music, gallery talks, cash bar, dinner options Museum: Special activities: Thru 2/ Meijer Gardens 20th anni5-9 p.m. Drop-in Family Saturdays: Art activities, kid-

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5-11, Spring Break activities 11 a.m.-3 p.m. for kids. See Museums Free 4 All and Fashion and Tea in Special Events. Permanent exhibitions: Streets of Old Grand Rapids, Anishinabek and Newcomers: People of This Place, Collecting A-Z, Furniture City, 1928 carousel ($1). Open daily; until 8 p.m. April 6-10 for Spring Break. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 age 3-17. 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm.org.

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Holland Museum: Special exhibition: Thru June 15, A Hundred Flowers: Phillip A. Harrington Photography from the People’s Republic of China, 1956-1957. Permanent exhibitions: 17thto 20th-century paintings; attractions from the “old country”; local history. Open Thu.-Sat. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, 5 and under free.

Cappon House: Special events: 10 a.m.-noon April 4, Victorian Easter Egg Hunt ($5). 228 W. 9th St. Settlers House: 190 W. 9th St. Main building: 31 W. 10th St., (616) 796-3329, hollandmuseum. org.

John Ball Zoo: More than 2,000 animals, including Meijer Grizzly Bears, Jandernoa Children’s Outpost, Lions of Lake Manyara, Mokomboso Valley Chimps, Spider Monkey Island, Living Shores Aquarium. Open daily. $7 adults, $6.50 seniors, $6 kids 3-13, kids under 2 free.

1300 W. Fulton St., 336-4300, jbzoo.org.

Since 1958 Rockford Plainfield Ave 76th St

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DAVID GREENWOOD (TOP); DEAN VAN DIS (BOTTOM)

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts: Special exhibitions: Thru April 26, Redefining the Multiple.

Thru May 10, Second Sight/Insight II. April 25-May 24, High School Area Show and Congressional Art Competition. Closed Mon. $5 adults, $2 students with ID, members and ages 12 and under free. 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, kiarts.org.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Special exhibitions: Thru April 26, Belinda the Ballerina & Friends: Illustrations of Amy Young. Thru May 3, LEGO Brick Art by Nathan Sawaya. Thru April 23, Muskegon County Student Art Exhibition. April 2-June 21, Alex Gabriel Bernstein: Carved in Glass.

April 30-Aug. 9, Manierre Dawson: Engineering Abstraction. Closed Mon. and Tue. $8 adults, $5 college students, free age 17 and younger.

296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, muskegonartmuseum.org.

Meyer May House: Restored Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house includes original furnishings. Guided tours 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue. and Thu.; 1-5 p.m. Sun. (last tour one hour before close) . Free. 450 Madison Ave. SE, 246-4821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com.

Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium: Digistar projection technology and surround sound.

Shows: “The Little Star That Could,” “Dynamic Earth,” “Back to the Moon for Good” and “Under Starlit Skies.” Show times: grpm.org/planetarium. $4 with admission to museum, $5 planetarium only; members free. Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. Tri-Cities Historical Museum: Special exhibition: Thru Sept., 60 Centuries of Copper.

Two buildings house exhibits of NW Ottawa County. Closed Mon. Free. 200 Washington Ave. and 1 N. Harbor, Grand Haven, (616) 842-0700, tri-citiesmuseum.org.

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out & about SOCIETY / FACES / PLACES

Logan and Carrie Duddles

CAPTURING THE ACTION AROUND TOWN:

snap shots

THE 16TH ANNUAL WYCE JAMMIES AWARDS held Feb. 13 at The Intersection featured nearly two dozen bands on two stages and an audience of music fans in their flannel casual wear.

More than 150 volunteers helped out at Soup’s On For All Jan. 26 at T he B.O.B. to raise money for the food and pantry programs of God’s Kitchen, a program of Catholic Charities West Michigan.

Jennifer The Charity Spectacular Brooks and preview event Feb. 4 kicked Becky off the 17th Annual MichiBailey gan International Auto Show at DeVos Place with proceeds benefitting Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Lt. Tim Kraai and Capt. Chuck DeWitt

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Jesper Dinesen and John Gonzalez

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Jill Greenop and Duffy Magin

Doug Hannink and Jocelyn Shaw

Bethany Winn and Anson Lange

Paige Jones, Tara Jones, Maria Garcia, Timothy Kirkpatrick and Adibe Garces

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Todd Chance and Jana Hoglund

Gail and James Fahner

Jim Harger and Jim Brady APRIL 2015 / GRMAG.COM 95

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after thoughts

Q:a

A

fter graduating from Grand Valley State University in 2008, Justin Swan offered campaign management and graphic design services to local and state candidates. But his career took a turn in 2011 when he joined Dan T ietema to launch Organicycle, providing curbside composting collection for West Michigan businesses and residents. Swan also is currently contracted with Van Andel Institute in Grand Rapids where he provides communications and marketing support for Purple Community, the VAI’s grassroots community fundraising program.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO UNWIND? My wife is a social

butterfly, so typically we’re enjoying an event out on the town with friends. I’m a big fan of Broadway Grand Rapids, but there’s honestly nothing better than curling up on the couch to watch some Netflix with my better half.

WHAT TALENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO POSSESS? I wish I could fly, or just simply levitate.

Realistically, to play the drums beyond a kindergartener’s skill level would be a welcome talent.

YOUR WORST HABIT? I sing, hum and whistle out loud — and don’t even realize it’s happening.

WHO INSPIRES YOU? My business partner Dan T ietema

not only serves as a mentor in business but as an inspiration for living my life. He has shown me that placing faith and family ahead of all else is the most important thing. What inspires me most about Dan, however, is that he redefines the word “grit.”

T wenty-first century entrepreneurs like Dan are redefining the American dream, and I have a front-row seat.

HOW DID YOU EARN YOUR FIRST DOLLAR? When I was 12, I discovered a Coca-Cola machine near my house would mistakenly accept Chucky Cheese coins. It would kick out a can of pop and a quarter for every Chucky Cheese coin. I reinvested the money for more

coins and sold the pop to my friends, then spent the money on basketball cards that I sold to sport card shops. Quite the enterprise until they replaced the Coke machine.

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE EARTH MONTH? Depends.

Some days I toast Mother Nature with a cold bottle of Old Style, but on “Jeans Friday” at the office I wear a tuxedo T -shirt made from hemp and take the stairs instead of the elevator.

WHAT DO YOU NEV ER LEAV E HOME WITHOUT? My sense of humor.

WHAT MAKES YOU MAD? Being told “that will never work.”

Oh, snap! It’s on like Donkey Kong now.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Justin Swan started his career in political consulting. Now he’s urging people to “Ditch the dump!” as co-owner of Organicycle.

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