Grand Rapids Magazine - August 2017

SPECIAL SECTION: THE ART OF DINING | DINING COUPON: ALPEN ROSE CELEBRATING CITY LIFE

A taste of Scandinavia See our dining review of the West Side’s trendiest hot spot, The Sovengard, pg. 62

AUGUST 2017

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HIGHER EDUCATION: COLLEGES AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES COLLABORATE TO CREATE WIN-WIN EXPERIENCES WILDLIFE VETS STILL MAKE HOUSE CALLS AT WEST MICHIGAN’S ANIMAL HAVENS SUMMER SANGRIA & MORE: TIPS FOR MAKING WINE PUNCHES

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Contents AUGUST 2017 / VOL. 54 / NO. 08

FEATURES 28 / The power of collaboration By pairing up with local organizations, Grand Rapids colleges offer rare, invaluable opportunities for students to gain real-world experience.

BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON

34 / A walk on the wild side Wildlife vets take on peculiar challenges in caring for the hairy, feathery and scaly residents of GR’s animal havens.

BY JULIE BONNER WILLIAMS

34 4 GRMAG.COM \ AUGUST 2017

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Best of 2016-17 Readers Poll

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contents AUGUST 2017 / VOL. 54 / NO. 08

departments BACK & FORTH 8 / From the Editor

Institute for Culinary Education

8 / Letters, social media and more

78 / Pints of interest: Ludington Bay Brewing Co.

10 / Contributors

82 / Nosh & sip: Summer bubbles

LIFE & STYLE 12 / Noteworthy items include Distel Wolfe Scavenger Hunts, Russo’s International Market, CoreLife Eatery, ServeGR.com and City Built Brewing Co.

86 / Cocktail hour: Updating sangria CAUSE & EFFECT 88 / Creative Arts Repertoire Ensemble

14

14 / Brothers Leather Supply Co. 16 / Health & wellness: Flower essences 18 / Mental health counseling MA program at Aquinas College

88

“I’ll carry a sample (bag) for one to four weeks to see if the engineering is right … I want every part of the bag to be perfect.”

— Adam Kail

20 / Reading room: Hope Alcocer OUT & ABOUT 92 / August highlights 93 / Calendar 95 / Liner notes: Beer City Bike Fest

78 ART & DESIGN 22 / Artist profile: “Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian” 24 / Art gallery listings and highlights

96 / Comedy & nightclub venue listings and highlights

92

100 / Museums & attractions listings and highlights 102 / Snap shots 104 / After thoughts: Glen Swanson

22

26 / Art talk: Autumn Lovers

by Albert-Ernest CarrierBelleuse FOOD & DRINK 62 / Dining review: The Sovengard 64 / Restaurant listings for West Michigan 68 / Chef profile: Tammy Vander Werf of the Secchia

62

ON THE COVER: The boom on GR’s West Side has birthed breweries, eateries, distilleries, retail and more. This month, GRM checks out what is, arguably, the area’s most talked about dining and drinking establishment, The Sovengard.

See page 62 for the full review.

Photography by Michael Buck

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17.05 S

1100 East Paris Avenue SE

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Terrazzo Fine ShopS Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-957-2222

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back & forth CONNECT WITH US

Solar salutes & college hoots rule GR

GRAND RAPIDS MAGAZINE’S FEED

What You’re Saying

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How do you spend your Sundays?

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Carole Valade Editor, Grand Rapids Magazine

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

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

I

IT’S THE MONTH TO celebrate the blues in Grand Rapids, but the draw will be at Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, host to a big Eclipse Party as a wide swath of the nation is immersed in a total eclipse of the sun Aug. 21 — the first since February 1979.

The total eclipse will span from Oregon to South Carolina, but Grand Rapids will be treated to a viewing of a partial eclipse, due to our location. The Grand Rapids Public Museum planetarium’s Eclipse Party starts at 10 a.m., with activities and safe viewing until 3 p.m.

The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is named for a native son and astronaut, who died aboard the famed Apollo 1 spacecraft in a fire during a prelaunch test.

This month, the Grand Rapids Alexis Hartman plays with Magazine After Thoughts interChildren’s Healing Center member Colten Debbaudt. view is with Glen E. Swanson, a former historian at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, who returned home to GR in 2004.

One of this issue’s feature stories, “The Power of Collaboration,” focuses on the “town-gown” relationship between area colleges and universities, and the communities that house them.

Grand Rapids is home to 85,000 college and university students, according to The Right Place economic development agency. The story focuses on student involvement with the local community, and the impact these partnerships have made in GR. The Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College certainly is counted among those institutions of higher learning and has been recognized as one of the top culinary arts programs in the country. For the month of August, GRM puts the Chef Profile spotlight on Tammy Vander Werf, a SICE graduate with a degree in culinary arts, several top awards and an emphasis in baking and pastry arts.

Stop dumping! That’s the advice of Cocktail Hour columnist Torrence O’Haire, who knows the season of sangria (and the minds of back-deck partiers tempted to dump an open, not-sogood bottle of wine into a frozen-fruit punch recipe). Instead of a “non-toxic version of sangria to lubricate a sunny afternoon,” O’Haire advises “balance.”

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“A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE,” page 34

The most interesting thing you’ve learned from a source? “Whenever I interview physicians, they always emphasize the importance of managing stress when it comes to mental, emotional and physical health and fending off chronic illness. It’s advice I try to pay attention to when it comes to daily living.”

What do you (like to) do in your spare time? “In the summer, it’s the beach, boating and generally being outdoors — all the reasons we live in Michigan!”

RADIO

Favorite animal? “Animal? Singular?! You mean choose one?! I’ll have to say my dogs — I have four. They are my children, my friends, my companions and a great source of love, laughter and comfort.”

Last book you read? “‘We’ll Always Have Casablanca’ by Noah Isenberg.”

Your worst habit? “My worst habit is that I have so few bad habits. The last time I went to confession the priest told me to up my game. I’m serious.”

3/ AMY RUIS,

Writer

“FUN WITH SUMMER BUBBLES,” page 82 Favorite place to relax while sipping on a glass of wine in GR? “On my front porch any moment I can.

If I’m headed out, probably Grove — they always have delicious picks.”

Best thing about your job?

“It’s a tossup between purchasing cool items for the store and the amazing customers that make us happy.”

Guilty pleasure? “Ice cream — any kind, but soft-serve is kind of the most guilty.”

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

10 GRMAG.COM \ AUGUST 2017

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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: Sarah Tincher COPY EDITOR: Tom Mitsos CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Joseph A. Becherer,

Julie Burch, Ann Byle, Ira Craaven, Pat Evans, Terri Finch Hamilton, Elissa Hillary, Nicole LaRae, Kara McNabb, Marla R. Miller, Mark F. Miller, Torrence R. O’Haire, Amy Ruis, Pasha Shipp, Julie Bonner Williams, Tricia van Zelst

EDITORIAL INTERNS: Jenna Gilbert, Samantha Lewakowski 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

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

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

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

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ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANTS:

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

Periodical postage paid at Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright © 2017

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

Subscription rates: one year $24, two years $34, three years $44, in continental U.S.; Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and U.S. possessions, one year $35. Subscrip­tions are not retroactive; single issue and newsstand $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

LEND A HELPING HAND

Launched in the fall of 2016, ServeGR.com is a hyperlocal website that connects people to volunteer opportunities in Grand Rapids.

“ServeGR was born out of this belief that we each have something to offer, but sometimes it’s just a matter of knowing where to begin,” said Heather Colletto, site coordinator.

From tutoring to home repair services, child care to assisting in an animal shelter, there are options available to fit everyone’s needs and interests.

“If you find a volunteer opportunity you’re good at and passionate about, everybody wins,” Colletto said. “Most importantly, whoever the volunteer is working with — say, an organization’s student or patient or client — is interacting with a volunteer who is not only good at what they’re doing, but enjoys the work.

“That’s a healthy volunteer experience for everyone, and those relationships make our entire community better.”

Striking a balance

C

oreLife Eatery, which brands itself as an “active lifestyle restaurant,” made its Michigan debut earlier this summer, opening its Grandville location, at 3158 44th St. SW, in June.

The restaurant aims to “bring clean, whole healthy food that tastes great, at an affordable price to as many suburban communities as possible,” said Todd Mansfield, CoreLife partner and chief cultural officer.

“Our own personal experience

is there are very few true healthy food options today.”

All foods are free of trans fats, artificial colors, sweeteners, other artificial additives and GMOs. The chicken and steak used are sustainably raised and never given antibiotics or hormones, and the bone broth is slow simmered all day for maximum taste and nutrition.

While the Syracuse, New York-based eatery has opened its doors to West Michigan as part of a franchise, the restau-

rant is committed to helping out the local community. These efforts began the day before the Grandville location opened, when the shop hosted a “pay what you want day,” where all guests could pay what they would like for their meal, and all proceeds were donated to Special Olympics Michigan. Moving forward, CoreLife will host community fundraisers once per month, Mansfield said. “Our primary and ongoing connection to community is supporting local active lifestyle events,” such as road races, cycling events and mudders, he said.

Check out the menu and learn more about CoreLife online at corelifeeatery.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (CENTER TOP, BOTTOM & RIGHT); COURTESY CHILDREN’S HEALING CENTER (TOP LEFT)

Want to get involved with your community but don’t know where to start? ServeGR is here to help.

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Think outside the cubicle

Craft brews, Caribbean fare

As the demand for fun, Tasks vary from easy Kenny Schwallier, unique corporate teamice breakers, such as Ashlie Wigent, Free building activities continTran and Melissa showing off your best Sweers participate ues to rise, Carol Distel and cheesy smile, to more in a scavenger Jill Wolfe have stepped adventurous and crehunt in downin to meet that need for town Grand ative challenges with Grand Rapids companies, Rapids. strangers, like leadgroups and organizations. ing a jazzercise class.

The pair got the idea to launch Distel Wolfe Scavenger Hunts in 2015, orgato bachelorette outings, nizing scavenger hunts non-corporate groups also that push participants can schedule hunts for beyond their comfort any occasion through Diszones to teach problemtel Wolfe’s sister company, solving skills and prompt GR Scavenger Hunt, which team building, while also designs app-based and allowing creativity to flow. printable scavenger hunts Tasks vary from easy for friends and family. The ice breakers, such as showhunts can be customized ing off your best cheesy to fit the group, with each smile, to more adventurhunt lasting about 90 minous and creative challengutes. es with strangers, like leading a jazzercise class.

Find more information about these hunts And corporate groups aren’t the only ones online at distelwolfe.com and grscavengerhunt. who can get in on the fun. From birthday parties com.

— Jenna Gilbert

With an abundance of breweries speckling Grand Rapids, how does anyone decide which one to try next?

Aiming to “blur the line” of your stereotypical brewery, City Built Brewing Co. saw what its competition had to offer and raised them one unique menu.

Manned by Edwin Collazo and head brewer Dave Petroelje, the brewery features a 10-barrel brewing system and a nontraditional spread of Caribbean cuisine that is “deeply influenced by the flavors and character of Puerto Rico,” according to its website.

After being delayed for nearly two years, the long-anticipated brewery opened its doors at 820 Monroe Ave. NW over Memorial Day weekend.

Visit citybuiltbrewing.com to peruse the unique menu and look at what’s on tap.

— Samantha Lewakowski

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (CENTER TOP, BOTTOM & RIGHT); COURTESY CHILDREN’S HEALING CENTER (TOP LEFT)

Russo’s returns to its downtown roots As downtown Grand Rapids continues to blossom, Russo’s International Market is stepping in to serve the growing demand with a second location, at 241 W. Fulton St. “We knew there was a need for a grocery store downtown that would be within walking distance of both the business and residential crowds,” said Kelley Russo, Russo’s director of engagement. “An opportunity presented itself, and we went for it.”

Much like the 112-year-old market’s existing location at 2770 29th St. SE, the new 4,500-square-foot store will offer catering, delivery, deli items, grocery, and wine and beer; in addition to a 60-seat indoor and 40-seat outdoor bistro, curbside

pickup, a gelato bar, fresh produce, home items and toiletries, which will be exclusive to the Fulton Street location.

“Since opening in 1905, my grandfather made it his mission to serve the Grand Rapids community. Our first location was on Division in what was known as ‘Little Italy.’

When we needed more room, we opened up on 29th Street,” Russo’s President Phil Russo said. “We always knew we would return to our roots, and this second location will allow us to serve the downtown community as we once did 112 years ago.”

The Fulton Street store is slated to open this summer. Find more info at gbrusso. com.

AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 13

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

QUALITY, STYLE AND AFFORDABILITY: that’s what’s fueling Beth Kail said she the turbo-charged sales of Grand Rapids’ Brothers Leather Supusually opts for the ply Co. — and it also is what paved the way for the shop’s latest leather “Norma Tote” line of canvas products. or a canvas backpack.

After the online launch of their leather bags, totes and duffels “I use one of our canin March 2014, husband-and-wife team Adam and Beth Kail saw vas backpacks for travel their first-year sales increase by 150 percent. With such immeor if I’m out with the diate success, the couple knew they had tapped into a niche kids,” Beth Kail said. “It’s marketplace. a lot easier than having a purse So, they continued to branch out with the sliding off my shoulder.”

“I’ll carry a sample launch of their new 2017 canvas line, which While Beth Kail prefers the canvas backpacks, (bag) for one to four was developed with the company’s mission of it’s the canvas duffel bag, dubbed “The Big Easy Dufweeks to see if the affordable quality and attention to design — so fle,” that claims best-seller status in the canvas line. engineering is right … much attention to design, in fact, the typical “It’s great for air travel, the gym or overnighters,” I want every part of two-month design process became an 18- to Adam Kail said. “We’ve had a hard time keeping that the bag to be perfect.” bag in stock.”

20-month process.

— Adam Kail “With our canvas line, we are so meticuWith studied pricing and quality driving sales lous,” Adam Kail said. at an impressive pace, Adam and Beth Kail remain When it’s time to put their designs to the test, the duo takes determined to develop the best products while also making on the task personally. them available and affordable. Devotees of Brothers Leather “I’ll carry a sample (bag) for one to four weeks to see if the Supply Co.’s leather and canvas lines can look forward to a new engineering is right and to make sure there are no weak points women’s line, which currently is in the works. in the bag,” Adam Kail said. “I want every part of the bag to be Check out the full canvas line and browse everything else perfect.”

Brothers Leather Supply Co. offers at the store, at 15 S. Division While Adam Kail said the “Jimmy B. Messenger” from the Ave., or online at brothersleathersupply.com.

— JULIE BONNER WILLIAMS leather line and the canvas “Motown Backpack” are his top picks,

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Brothers Leather branches out

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SKILL AND WILL. YOU DON’T NEED MUCH ELSE. T H E R U N W E LL C H RO N O A S S E M B L E D BY S T R O N G A N D B E AU T I F U L A M E R I C A N

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

H A N DS W I T H U . S . A N D I M P O R T E D PA R TS .

T ER R A Z ZO F I N E S H O P S 110 0 E AS T PA R IS AV EN U E S E • GR A N D R A P I DS , M I 49546 • 616 -957-2222 J U H A SA N D S U LLI VA N .CO M

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health & wellness KARA MCNABB

Employing the power of flowers FLOWER ESSENCES ARE AMONG my favorite plant medicines.

They’re known for their ability to work on negative emotions and beliefs. They often work quickly, especially in times of extreme stress — though, I’ve seen them work at a slow-andsteady pace, too.

The beliefs we carry around that consciously, or unconsciously, cause stress have a strong effect on the body. Flower essences can help balance these emotional patterns, in turn, affecting the physical body.

Physical symptoms, like skin conditions or digestive troubles, for example, may lessen or entirely disappear.

I’ve had clients use this during panic attacks and find relief without needing to pull out their prescription. Giving a speech? Nervous for a meeting? Is anxiety interfering with school?

This blend of five flowers is beneficial for any moment that instigates mental, emotional or physiological stress. It pulls you back into a state where you can think more clearly and feel less restricted from the pressure.

Elm is wonderful when feeling overwhelmed. When work deadlines pile up all at once or there aren’t enough hours in the day for home life, elm helps you prioritize, rebalance and move forward.

Mimulus and aspen are great for fear. Mimulus is great for reducing known fears, while aspen, on the other hand, is helpful when the fear is unknown. I’ve seen kids burdened by fear come out of it fairly quickly with one of these two essences.

White chestnut is helpful for sleep when mental chatter keeps you awake at night. It helps you wind down, turn off and, if needed, return to whatever is important later.

Scleranthus is the flower for indecision. If you tend to vacillate in decisionmaking, scleranthus can help you trust yourself to make the right decision.

Yarrow is wonderful for highly empathic people. If you’re the type that is intensely affected by environments or others’ emotions, this flower essence helps to distinguish what’s yours and what’s not, instead of taking them on as your own. Yarrow is excellent for setting boundaries, energetically and relationally.

Continuum Healing, at 1324 Lake Dr. SE in Eastown, has one of the largest selections of flower essences in the area, including La Vie de la Rose, a Grand Rapids-based company. You can also find flower essences locally at Harvest Health Foods stores or the Fresh Thyme Farmers Market at 2470 Burton St. SE.

Flower essences, which are liquid flower infusions that carry the energetic signature of the plant, can be taken internally — either by squeezing a couple drops of the liquid into a glass of water or applying them directly to the tongue — as blends or individually. You can’t overdo them, and taking one that doesn’t “match” won’t be harmful, either. They are safe for anyone. Each flower addresses specific behavior patterns and personality types; and those that I’ve included here are just a few examples of hundreds.

Five-Flower, also known as Rescue Remedy, is great to have on-hand for times of stress.

—Kara McNabb is a naturopathic practitioner at Continuum Healing and member of the Wellness Collective.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Each flower addresses specific behavior patterns and personality types; and those that I’ve included here are just a few examples of hundreds.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

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

“We’re highly focused on clinical competency in mental health. Graduates of our program are competent to evaluate, diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders.”

— Dr. Daniel Cruikshanks

K Dr. Julie Schatz-Stevens (standing) instructs a master’s level Marriage, Family and Couples Counseling class.

Aquinas offers unique opportunity practice that makes them competitive with other disciplines that require higher-level degrees.”

Western Michigan University is the only other school in the area offering a similar degree. However, the Aquinas program is unique in that once graduates become licensed, they are qualified to provide an array of services, including psychological evaluations and testing, and marriage, family and addiction counseling. The program also has a pastoral track.

While the 60-hour program is set up so a full-time student can graduate in three years, there may be some adjustments to offer more eight-week courses so students can feasibly graduate in two years.

It’s geared toward new graduates, working professionals and mid-career professionals looking to change or advance their careers.

Some applicants may have to take a class or two at the undergraduate level, but many social sciences courses apply, as well as work experience.

“We don’t have an undergraduate feeder, so we can accept people with any bachelor’s degree as long as they’ve had

Dr. Daniel R. Cruikshanks

nine hours of undergraduate psychology or something related,” he said. “Because we’re so small, I’m able to evaluate a person’s application individually.”

Noticing both a dire need to fill vacancies in rural areas plus a severe underrepresentation of minorities in the mental health services field — both as professionals and patients, one of Cruikshanks’ goals is to recruit more minority students to meet the demand.

— MARLA R. MILLER

R PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

There are various letters behind a mental health professional’s name — Ph.D., MSW, CMHC — but what do they actually mean?

A growing discipline in the field, clinical mental health counselors (CMHC) talk people through problems. But in many cases, their credentials allow them to diagnose, as well as treat, mental illness.

Aquinas College launched a Master of Arts in mental health counseling program last year in response to the demand for licensed clinical counselors, in part because of the growing opioid epidemic and underserved rural areas, along with need for more African-American and Hispanic counselors.

When Dr. Daniel Cruikshanks moved from Ohio to West Michigan to chair Aquinas College’s Department of Psychology and Counselor Education, he realized the small liberal arts school was well-positioned to offer such a program.

“We’re highly focused on clinical competency in mental health,” he said. “Graduates of our program are competent to evaluate, diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, and have a broad scope of 18 GRMAG.COM \ AUGUST 2017

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H L

Presented by

Literary Libations Gala Fundraiser Steelcase Town Hall

Thursday, September 7, 2017 | 5:30–9 p.m.

Literary greats will grace Grand Rapids for the third annual Literary Libations Gala Fundraiser hosted by Kent District Library. These bestselling authors will take to the stage for a memorable night of dinner, drinks and discussion.

Books will be available for purchase at the event.

James Miller

Peter Heller

Joshilyn Jackson

Elizabeth Berg

Purchase tickets at www.kdl.org: $150 per person | $500 for ½ table (4 guests) | $1,000 for whole table (8 guests) Proceeds from Literary Libations will support KDL programs and services.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Recommended Read Sponsors

Hank and Liesel Meijer

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Bookplate Sponsors

Media Sponsors

Catherine Behrendt, Event Emcee

6/27/17 1:15 PM

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

READING ROOM

Writing to heal sold the 500 she kept in her apartment in a matter of weeks.

“My biggest fear in life is failure, and I was so afraid of failing with this book,” she said. “That fear was a bottleneck. Once I pressed ‘publish,’ the creative juices kept flowing.”

The 29-year-old is planning to release “30 Things I Learned Before I Turned 30” later this year or in early 2018.

“Where Hope Lies” is available online at wherehopelies.com, barnesandnoble.

—ANN BYLE com and on Amazon.

“It’s a voice of women’s empowerment. How many women are holding in their true dreams and true feelings?”

— Hope Alcocer

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Though Hope Alcocer never has felt more at home since moving to New York City three years ago, her most recent book, “Where Hope Lies,” takes the Hastings native back to her small-town roots, as it explores, via fiction, the events in her own life. Two broken engagements, health issues and a near breakdown become fodder for a novel that has many women saying, “Wow, I’m not alone.”

“As an artist, this book is a product of my pain,” Alcocer said. “Writing it out and reflecting on my pain and anger was the most healing and therapeutic thing I could do. As I wrote, I looked at how I could have done things differently, handled situations better. It’s brought a lot of healing.”

The novel is assuredly fiction, with key figures and events markedly changed and characters are an amalgamation of real people. She began writing several years ago, using bits from her Tumblr blog that she used as an outlet to record her thoughts and emotions about her fiancé, who was then stationed overseas.

She got caught up in the events of life and stopped working on the book for a while; but after her second engagement broke three weeks before the wedding, she went on the honeymoon alone and finished the book.

“The book was very raw and direct then, but it’s softened with each edit,” she said. It was scheduled to release on March 12, 2016 — her birthday — but she just couldn’t do it.

After a year of therapy, journaling, meditation and self-care, she released it on March 8, 2017 — International Women’s Day. “It’s a voice of women’s empowerment,” Alcocer said. “How many women are holding in their true dreams and true feelings? Women need to learn to use their voices in relationships and jobs.”

Alcocer’s mother, to whom “Where Hope Lies” is dedicated, gave Alcocer her first journal at age 5 “because I always had so much to say.” Alcocer has been journaling and speaking ever since, building a social media following of more than 40,000 people through Pinterest, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and her blog. She had a preorder list of 1,000, and 20 GRMAG.COM \ AUGUST 2017

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Best of 2016-17 Readers Poll

Thank you for voting us “Best Dentist” four years in a row!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

Illustrating an era

T

he young woman’s eyes seem anxious, perhaps distrustful. She grips her necklace as though she’s searching for something familiar. Many of the other faces around her have similar expressions. Some gaze off in the distance, while others acknowledge the camera head-on — their eyes telling incredible stories without a single word. Beyond the walls of faces are images of breathtaking vistas, elaborate headdresses and intricate architecture.

Some depict grand landscapes, while others capture the meticulous details of handmade artifacts.

Edward Curtis, the man behind the images featured in “Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian,” was an ethnographer who committed his life to preserving the rich heritage and traditions of American Indian tribes. The exhibition, currently on

display at the Muskegon Museum of Art, features Curtis’ entire body of work. More than 100 tribes and 30 years of careful study and exploration convene in 723 distinct photogravures and 20 volumes of ethnographic research, all incorporated into the massive exhibition.

An exhibition like this one is quite an undertaking, but Judith Hayner, the executive director of the museum, was determined to see it through. Despite the challenges that came with hosting the exhibit, Hayner was determined to offer visitors the opportunity to see Curtis’ complete collection. “When you see an entire body of work, you understand what that person is doing in a way that is different than if you just see a few pieces,” she said. “I’ve always said with really great art, you have to have the techniques, but you also have to have

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Edward Curtis’ expansive work offers an unmatched look into the lives of early-20th-century North American Indians.

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SPACE IN THE CASE

SALE “He became obsessed with this idea of documenting what he thought was a vanishing race. He wanted to commit to history what these lives were.”

— Judith Hayner

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

something to say. That’s when art becomes compelling.”

To execute the exhibition, Hayner enlisted the talents of Ben Mitchell, an independent curator who has primarily worked in contemporary American Indian art. Mitchell was eager to tell Curtis’ story in a way that honestly represented who he was as an artist and ethnographer. “Nothing was more

important to me than reminding people that Curtis was trapped in his own time,” Mitchell said. “He thought (American) Indians were primitive, noble and strangely interesting, and that comes through in his work in a little bit of an uncomfortable way to us today.”

The exhibition depicts Curtis’ travels across the west, as he documented native peoples in the early 1900s. His vast collection of works portrays everything from landscapes to tools and to leaders and rituals.

“He became obsessed with this idea of documenting what he thought was a vanishing race,” Hayner said. “He wanted to commit to history what these lives were.” To pull off such a feat, Curtis had to exude enthusiasm and tenacity, which is clearly represented by the sheer volume of images he produced.

“He was swashbuckling, larger than life; he had enormous passion,” Mitchell said. “He was going to complete this if it killed him — and it almost did.”

Each gallery shares a piece of Curtis’ unique journey through the intimacy of photogravures, artifacts and even field recordings. A variety of special events and programs accompany the exhibition to offer a deeper experience. “Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian” will be on display at the Muskegon Museum of Art until Sept.

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art & design TRENDS / PEOPLE / INNOVATION / PLACES

1/ Nichole Bloomberg’s paintings are at Flat River Gallery until Sept. 30.

Local art galleries COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST

1/ FLAT RIVER GALLERY & FRAMING: Artist cooperative shows work in a variety of mediums; plus, gifts, framing and workshops. Aug. 1-Sept. 30, “Beach Bash” by Nichole Bloomberg includes whimsical paintings that layer paint, paper, vibrant colors and textures to create depth and dimension. Reception 5-8 p.m. Aug. 10. 219 W. Main St., Lowell, 987-6737, flatrivergallery andframing.com.

2/ KRUIZENGA ART MUSEUM: Art from Hope College’s permanent collection and visiting exhibitions. Thru Aug. 12, “Access Points: Recent Acquisitions of a Teaching Museum” includes a diverse selection of artwork recently acquired from Asia, Africa, Europe and America. 271 Columbia Ave., Holland, 395-6400, hope.edu/kam.

3/ TERRYBERRY GALLERY: Local and international art. Aug. 2-Sept. 11, “What Fifty Looks Like: A Photography Retrospective by Stacy Niedzwiecki” celebrates the artist’s 50th birthday with 50 diverse images of landscapes, water, flowers, farms, wildlife, abstracts, portraits and more. Reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. Aug. 11. Lower level, St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ransom Ave. NE, 459-2224, scmc-online. org/terryberry-art-gallery.

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

Collective Artspace: Exhibits in various media, including work by its collective of 15 local artists. 40 S. Division Ave., thecollectiveartspace. com.

Fed Galleries @ Kendall College of Art and Design: Work by contemporary visiting artists. Aug. 29-Oct. 14, ArtPrize Nine exhibition: “Society of Spectacle.” 17 Pearl St. NW, 4512787, kcad.edu/galleries.

Flat River Cottage: Fine art, jewelry, antiques and home décor; also, paintings by Kathleen Mooney. 317 E. Main St., Lowell, 897-8601, flatriver cottage.com.

Forest Hills Fine Arts Center: Artist-in-residence program offers

exhibits by local and regional artists during the school year. Also, exhibits by Forest Hills Public Schools students and staff. 600 Forest Hill Ave. SE, 493-8965, fhfineartscenter. com.

Franciscan Life Process Center: Changing exhibits by local artists.

Lowell campus: Thru Oct. 31, “Detours Opening Up New Vistas” by Charles LaRue. 11650 Downes St. Downtown GR campus: Aug. 1-Oct. 31, “Franciscan Friends,” artwork by Blythe Metternick Smith and Wilma Knoll. 654 Davis St. NW, lifeprocesscenter.org.

Gallery 154: Eastown gallery shows local and national multimedia art, gifts and jewelry. 1456 Lake Drive SE, 454-2154, gallery154.com.

GVSU Art Gallery: Student artwork and exhibits by renowned artists. Aug. 25-Oct. 27, “Afghanistan to Morroco: Journeys of a Lifetime, 1967-2017.” 1121 Performing Arts Center, North Campus Drive, Allendale, 331-2563, gvsu.edu/artgallery.

The Harris Building: Art gallery and event space displays work by local, national and international artists.

111 S. Division Ave, 272-3682, thehar risbuilding.com.

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

Holland Area Arts Council: Changing exhibits of art. Thru Aug. 12, “Michigan Spaces/Michigan Places: Recent Paintings by Keith Downie and Tom Tomasek.” Aug. 25-Nov. 4, “MI Arts: All Michigan All Media Visual Arts Competition”; reception 6-8 p.m. Aug. 25. 150 E. Eighth St., Holland, 3963278, hollandarts.org.

ICCF: Inner City Christian Federation headquarters displays art in various media. Thru Oct. 31, “Impressions” by Valentina Gregorieva. 920 Cherry St. SE, 336-9333, iccf.org.

LaFontsee Galleries: 2-D and 3-D works by gallery artists, plus framing and restoration services. Grand Rapids location (includes Urban Craft Boutique with gifts, accessories and home décor): 833 Lake Drive SE, 4519820. Douglas location: Noon-4 p.m.

Aug. 19, Artist Demos. 410 W. Center St., 451-3850, lafontsee.us.

Leep Art Gallery: Work by a variety of visiting artists. Thru Oct. 3, “Pictures of 1,000 Words: Meaning Beyond the Details” by Don Teachout.

Pine Rest Postma Center, 300 68th St. SE, pinerest.org.

LowellArts: Changing exhibitions of works by Michigan artists. Thru Aug. 12, “Flight.” Aug. 22-25, “Chair-ATee for Pink Arrow Pride”; reception 2-4 p.m. Aug. 26. 223 W. Main St., Lowell, 897-8545, lowellartsmi.org.

3/ A 50-photograph exhibit

by Stacy Niedzwiecki is at Terryberry Gallery.

MercuryHead Gallery: A variety of work by local artists. Also, gifts, photo restoration, digital printing on canvas and framing. 962 E. Fulton St.,

2/ Tsuruya Kokei’s “Fishing for a Wife” is

at Hope College’s Kruizenga Art Museum.

456-6022, Facebook.

Merizon Studio: Art, mirror and glass design, custom framing and limited-edition prints by Armand Merizon. 9087 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Caledonia, 485-5752, merizonstudio.com.

Richard App Gallery: Art from local and national artists, plus restoration and custom framing. 910 Cherry St. SE, 458-4226, Facebook.

Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts: Innovative contemporary exhibits and installations. Thru Aug. 4, “Flex Gallery: A Public Art Project by Zachary Johnson.” Thru Aug. 6, “Fresh Pick: Eana Agopian.” Thru Aug. 26, “The Jump Off.” 2 W. Fulton St., 4597000, uica.org.

Van Singel Fine Arts Center: Changing exhibits by local artists.

Thru Aug. 21, “Watercolors: Inside and Outside the Studio” by Jim Johnson.

8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center, 878-6800, vsfac.com/programm ing/art-gallery.

Check websites for hours of operation.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY NICHOLE BLOOMBERG (TOP); KRUIZENGA ART MUSEUM/HOPE COLLEGE (RIGHT); STACY NIEDZWIECKI (BOTTOM)

Aquinas College Gallery: Work by students, faculty and visiting artists.

Art & Music building, 1607 Robinson Road SE, 632-8900, aquinas.edu/art/ gallery.

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY NICHOLE BLOOMBERG (TOP); KRUIZENGA ART MUSEUM/HOPE COLLEGE (RIGHT); STACY NIEDZWIECKI (BOTTOM)

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art talk

BY JOSEPH A. BECHERER

AMONG THE MOST engagof outdoorsman, specifiing sculptors of the 19th cally a hunter, but his idecentury was the French alized body type suggests master Albert-Ernest Carthe masculinity of a clasrier-Belleuse (1824-1887), sical hero or god. She is who had one of the most a timeless maiden or serprolific and impactful vant girl whose femininity careers of the mid-1800s. is intended to counterbalAlthough something of a ance her male counternational treasure on the part. Many of the details eve of impressionism, his seem classically inspired, works were known and colbut the overall interaction lected across Brussels, Belof the two figures — from gium; France; England; and the swooning stance to even the United States durtheir interlocked gaze — is ing his lifetime. decidedly romantic.

Carrier-Belleuse iniOne of the crowntially trained as a goldsmith ing achievements of this and developed early skills bronze is the magnificent for visualizing graceful attention to detail. Facial forms and intricate detail. features, locks of hair, indiSuch traits remained vidual fruits and grains, throughout his career and and folds and pleats of are especially apparent in material are carefully conhis tabletop and pedestalsidered. The small scale of scale works. Among his the sculpture, which stands more well-known works is about 2 feet tall, allows a the pedestal-scale bronze wonderful opportunity to entitled Autumn Lovers, study the piece from all which currently is on dissides. Beginning with the play at the Grand Rapids head of the male figure facArt Museum.

In sculpting Autumn Lovers, Carrier-Belleuse ing downward, a viewer’s In the history of art, two eye easily glides around the managed to navigate a concept between of the strong movements subjects until reaching the neoclassicism and romanticism. that surfaced in the 1800s circular base. Limbs, glancwere neoclassicism and es, gestures and draperies seem to swirl endlessly. romanticism. The former looked to the work, especially The GRAM will host Autumn Lovers for the coming sculpture and architecture, of the ancient Greeks and months, as the sculpture was offered as a temporary loan Romans as both an inspiration and guide. The latter was from its sister organization, Frederik Meijer Gardens & more interested in emotional themes, ranging from love to Sculpture Park. Displaying this exquisite bronze in a differpatriotism, and is often closely associated with literature ent context offers all viewers — even those familiar with the and music of the age. In sculpting Autumn Lovers, Carriersculpture — a chance to appreciate the work anew.

Belleuse managed to navigate a concept between the two celebrated movements.

The two figures, one male and one female, are classically attired in tunic and gossamer robes. He is a type

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

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CHUCK HEINEY

An elegant blend of class & romance

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Central Michigan University First neuroscience undergraduate degree program in Michigan First public university in the Midwest with a MakerBot 3-D printing facility First accredited athletic training major in the nation First in the nation to house a research lab that focuses solely on CHARGE syndrome

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CHUCK HEINEY

First sociology program in the nation to offer a focus on youth studies

CMU is an AA/EO institution, providing equal opportunity to all persons, including minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities (see cmich.edu/ocrie). UComm 9779 (6/17)

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BY TERRI FINCH HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

By pairing up with local organizations, Grand Rapids colleges offer rare, invaluable opportunities for students to gain real-world experience.

The power of collaboration preschoolers, fourth-graders who need help with reading look forward to Calvin students showing up several times a week to lend a hand — or an ear. Calvin received national recognition this year for these collaborations, but it’s not the only college in the city that’s partnering up to provide unique opportunities for its students.

What are Grand Rapids college students doing around town? Here’s a look at just some of their community encounters.

Davenport University: learning to relate Davenport University’s College of Urban Education partners with Grand Rapids Public Schools, putting teachers directly into city classrooms to learn about the unique needs of urban students.

“You need to understand the community where you teach,” said Susan Gunn, dean of the College of Urban Education. “In traditional teacher education, nobody prepares

Ottawa Hills High school students Erias Herman, Kennedy Lewis and Larry Phillips talk with school improvement facilitator Whitley Morse (second from left and page 29).

ILLUSTRATION COURTESY THINKSTOCK

C

onstruction student Abby Langenberg built affordable houses in the city, hammering and sawing with students of all races and backgrounds.

Whitley Morse learned how to connect with inner-city students, teaching in a Grand Rapids classroom while experts critiqued her techniques.

Lauren Anderson learned nursing skills on Grand Rapids front porches, knocking on doors and learning how to listen.

Area college students are doing some exciting things — thanks, at least in part, to their ties within Grand Rapids.

When colleges and universities collaborate with the city and its rich array of organizations, intriguing opportunities happen that help students soar.

“Employers are looking for more than just the degree — they want real-world experience,” said Daniel Cruikshanks, head of the Department of Psychology and Counselor Education at Aquinas College. “But they also tell us, ‘Send us people who know how to show up, who have a work ethic, who are responsible.’ These community engagements really help with that. Students are responsible to someone outside the school system.”

That happens campus-wide at Calvin College, where each of the seven residence halls is paired with a community organization — the same one, year after year. Adults with developmental disabilities, inner-city 28 GRMAG.COM \ AUGUST 2017

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ILLUSTRATION COURTESY THINKSTOCK

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Abby Langenberg works with Lewis Building Group.

“Employers are looking for more than just the degree — they want real-world experience. …

These community engagements really help with that.”

— Daniel Cruikshanks

you for a classroom where your students are from all different backgrounds — some are impacted by trauma, some are way behind, some are learning English. How do you deal with all those factors and design a lesson plan so each student gets what they need?”

Davenport’s Master of Urban Education students learn how — surrounded by students with all those needs.

“It isn’t something my undergrad teacher education prepared me for,” said Morse, a May Davenport graduate recently promoted to serve as the school improvement facilitator at Ottawa Hills High School. “Davenport is diving deep, having conversations that most undergrad programs are too nervous to touch. I relate on a deeper level now with my African-American students, my LGBT students.

“Teachers are so focused on content and state assessments, it’s easy to forget that our students are human with a lot going on in their lives outside school,” Morse continued.

“When students know you care about them beyond their math scores, they (appreciate) that. There’s so much more to teaching than lesson plans.”

The graduate students, who teach in city classrooms, are observed weekly by expert professors and get immediate feedback on their teaching techniques. Then, like Morse, they go back to their schools and teach their colleagues what they’ve learned.

Calvin College: ‘leaving a legacy’ Anderson spent the past two years of her Calvin College nursing studies in Grand Rapids’ Baxter-Madison neighborhood, learning not just how to heal, but how to listen.

She knocked on doors to learn about neighbors’ barriers to health care and offered blood pressure and glucose screenings at churches.

“A lot of what we do is just listening, going into houses, seeing who patients are as people,” said Anderson, a May graduate who will pursue a master’s degree in public health.

Calvin’s nursing program has partnered with Grand Rapids neighborhoods since 2002. Students spend two days each week in the neighborhoods, year after year. As trust builds, residents open up about their needs. When neighbors asked for a support group for women to help with anxiety and depression, Calvin nursing students started one.

“It’s important to understand where your clients are coming from,” Anderson said. “When you see patients in the hospital, it’s easy to say, ‘Follow this regimen that I’ve given you and everything will be fine.’ But what if they go home and have to decide between paying for medicine and buying food? I’ve met people who are afraid to go

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to bed every night because they hear shooting outside.

“These are fears and situations I’ve never experienced,” she continued. “It’s so important to listen and learn; then, it’s not so easy to judge.”

We need more of that in health care, said Gail Zandee, an associate professor of nursing at Calvin.

“These students aren’t just learning — they’re helping to transform a city, and that’s powerful,” Zandee said. “They’re leaving a legacy.”

Grand Rapids Community College: neighbors helping neighbors Langenberg honed her construction skills while building a Habitat for Humanity house in Grand Rapids’ Black Hills neighborhood — where she also met the woman, Kay, who would live there.

“Seeing her there, knowing she would be living in this house, made it even more rewarding,” said Langenberg, who took construction courses at Grand Rapids Community College and now works for Lewis Building Group in Grand Rapids.

Her student crew was diverse, she said — a woman, men, white, black, Puerto Rican, an 18-year-old, a 50-year-old.

“We were all working for a common goal: to build these houses,” Langenberg said, “and I have cherished memories of

that. We are the community.”

Her education went way beyond installing floor joists.

“Our construction students get the coolest experiences,” said Julie Parks, executive director of workforce training at GRCC. “They get to build houses from the ground up in neighborhoods that they live in. When they build a house for Habitat, they get to see the effect it has on a whole family. It gets pretty emotional.”

When students worked next to a medical doctor volunteering at a Habitat house, “the conversations that happened were so cool,” Parks said. “They said, ‘A doctor would come and do something like this?

So, other people care about this neighborhood, too.’”

Cornerstone University: widespread impact, meaningful experience Cornerstone University business students collected more than 80 prom dresses, and then gave them to girls at Godwin Heights High School, setting up a photo booth for the happy new dress owners.

Their list of projects goes on, spanning a range of topics — from human trafficking and food insecurity, to micro loans for small businesses around the world.

It’s perfect preparation for life after college, said Rachel Hammond, an assistant

“Our construction students get the coolest experiences.

They get to build houses from the ground up in neighborhoods that they live in. When they build a house for Habitat, they get to see the effect it has on a whole family.

It gets pretty emotional.”

— Julie Parks

Former Enactus member Jordan Grooters (left) and Faculty Advisor Rachel Hammond walk with the more than 80 prom dresses they collected to give to girls in need at Godwin Heights High School.

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GVSU Education student Lindsey LeQuia tutors Florenca Mukashyaka and Leandre Hodari in math, using U.S. currency as a teaching tool.

professor of business at Cornerstone and faculty advisor for Enactus, the studententrepreneur group.

“They’re able to hit the ground running as employees,” Hammond said. “They have leadership experience. They know how to work as a team. They’re good communicators.”

Cornerstone offers great opportunities, Hammond said, because of its size — hosting fewer than 3,000 students altogether at any given time.

“We’re less bound to the bureaucracy that a bigger university has,” she said. “We have the flexibility to respond to what our students are really excited about.

“At our core, we’re not just here to use our talents and skills to get a good job,” Hammond continued, “but to care for the world around us.”

“Our students learn a little bit of what it’s like to be a refugee,” said Rui Niu-Cooper, an associate professor of education at GVSU. “They hear their stories about war, disasters and suffering. They realize how unstable refugee life can be.”

It’s eye-opening for these future teachers.

“Now, they know they have to be concerned about more than content,” Niu-Cooper said. “Do their students have enough food? Do they have clothes? How can they teach more effectively?”

“It increases their empathy,” added David Bair, the director of the Center for Educational Partnerships at GVSU. “This is important preparation to be not just a teacher, but a caring human being.”

Grand Valley State University: a lesson in compassion

As a community leadership major at Aquinas College, Alexis Hartman volunteered as an intern at the Grand Rapidsbased Children’s Healing Center, where children with weak immune systems have a clean, safe, germ-free space to play.

She helped run fundraising campaigns, planned events and built plenty of forts out of big, blue blocks.

A number of other Aquinas students volunteer their time, too, helping kids make superhero capes and get their heads — bald

Grand Valley State University students work on sustainability issues with the city of Grand Rapids, grow food to sell at farmers markets and pair up with innovative educators at the Grand Rapids Public Museum School.

Education students help African refugee families through the Cathedral of St. Andrew, from tutoring to job skills to finding community resources.

from chemotherapy — adorned with henna crowns.

“You can see kids’ sense of relief when they get here that this isn’t another medical appointment,” said Hartman, who now works at the center. “Their whole world, for a couple hours, is theirs. They can just be kids. Being here makes me so happy.”

Aquinas and the center plan to further their collaborative efforts in the coming months, as Aquinas launches a new Child Life Specialist program this fall.

“Most people assume that if you go to a small college, you’re not getting these kinds of opportunities,” Cruikshanks said. “If we have a student who’s really interested in ADHD, we can link them up with a place that does that kind of work. We can really GR customize experiences for students.”

Aquinas College: endless opportunities

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Alexis Hartman plays with Children’s Healing Center member Colten Debbaudt.

“You can see kids’ sense of relief when they get here that this isn’t another medical appointment. Their whole world, for a couple hours, is theirs. They can just be kids.

Being here makes me so happy.”

— Alexis Hartman AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 33

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Yuri, an Amur tiger 34 GRMAG.COM \ AUGUST 2017

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A walk on the

Wild side Wildlife vets take on peculiar challenges in caring for the hairy, feathery and scaly residents of GR’s animal havens.

By Julie Bonner Williams

/

Photography by Johnny Quirin

AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 35

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Whom does a grizzly bear call when his allergies are acting up?

If he’s a resident at John Ball Zoo, it’s Dr. Ryan Colburn. The bear won’t even have to leave home; his doctor makes house calls to attend to those itchy patches and prescribe allergy pills. And not only does a grizzly bear get the luxury of a doctor who makes house calls, but he also gets his medication served in a mixture of peanut butter and jelly on a spoon. After all, who’s going to argue with an itchy, 560-pound grizJohn Ball Zoo Veterinarian Dr. Ryan Colburn works with Animal Care Supervisor Jaime Racalla. The brown zly bear about how he should take his bears, Boo Boo and Yogi, have been trained to stand up against the fence to be examined. meds?

Dr. Ryan, as he’s known around the zoo, is the go-to guy for the who are Colburn’s most challenging? Somewhat surprisingly, he residents of the West Side venue that has been a family favorite in points the finger at the chimpanzees, though also noting they are the Grand Rapids since 1891. ones who make him laugh the most.

Though the notion of doctoring a grizzly bear seems like a “no“I would say the chimpanzees are the most dangerous patients way” consideration to many, Colburn described the bear — named we work with, just because of their strength — and they’re so smart,” Yogi — as a laid-back guy and an easy patient. Equally as easy-going he said. “We’re very careful with them. They have a tendency toward is Yogi’s female roommate, a brown bear appropriately named Boo being unpredictable. If they’re frustrated, it can be with an aggresBoo. sive tone.”

“They’re both actually a lot of fun to work with,” Colburn said.

At the same time, he said, the chimpanzees’ intelligence also “Their training has been important. (Yogi) will stand on command makes caring for them easier. and extend his neck and head, looking up. In the spring, he’ll get “Most of the chimps know a list of anatomical cues; so, I can say dermatitis in the skin folds of his neck. With his training, he’ll look ‘eye,’ and they’ll put their eye to the bars,” Colburn explained. “There up and get a treat, (and) that allows me to look at his neck.” are definitely challenges to working with the chimps, but there are And anyone who’s ever complained about having to take an also exciting opportunities.” antibiotic every four hours will sympathize with Yogi’s regimen: he Others who make the “most dangerous patients” list are the takes 13 antibiotics, twice daily. venomous snakes. Because zoo personnel seek to keep all animals Yogi is just one of Colburn’s easy patients. Colburn admitted intact, the snakes all have their fangs — and venom production to having favorites — namely the large cats, like the tigers, lions capabilities. The good news is they’re fairly easy to maneuver, using and cougars — and, contrary to popular belief, he said the lions are a snake hook and the expertise of a professional trainer. Providing among his most obliging patients. With the efforts of the lion traincare for a snake involves coaxing the snake into a tube, and once the ers, working with them can be fairly simple, he said. snake is in and unable to turn around, the keeper can then hold the So, if bears and lions are among the more indulgent patients, end of the snake and the tube so Colburn can examine or X-ray it.

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“Snakes, in particular, are beautiful animals,” Colburn said, adding that when they’re in a tube, they’ll open their mouths out of anger, allowing him to check inside. But with the potential danger of a snake bite, zoo personnel conduct drills and practice the proper protocol in the event anyone were to be bitten. Antivenom always is on-hand, and at least two zoo staff members are present at all times when one of the snakes is being treated.

Safety precautions are key to Colburn’s work, and since starting his career at John Ball Zoo in 2012, he’s experienced only minor scratches and bites — the worst from a cockatoo.

Even though it may seem odd enough to some that a grizzly bear with springtime allergies, a lion in need of vaccination or a chimpanzee requiring an eye exam are just part of a typical day for Colburn, he still has his “unusual” moments on the job.

When a resident capybara — an animal that holds the distinction of being the world’s largest rodent, weighing up to 150 pounds — recently required an endoscopy, Colburn was there to perform the procedure. When a baby penguin was struggling to hatch out of its shell, it was Colburn to the rescue, assisting in the newborn’s efforts.

Even when a 5-foot-long green tree python had trouble delivering her eggs, he was on-hand to help.

“She’d had two episodes trying to lay her eggs and couldn’t,” Colburn recalled. “We did a (cesarean) section, and we spayed her so she didn’t have to go through that again.”

Spaying or neutering animals typically is something zoos avoid,

keeping animals available for reproduction if species populations decrease. Yet in some cases, such as with the green tree python, it’s prudent. However, there are other options — as it turns out, humans aren’t the only species using contraception.

“We have a male and female otter that are related, so we don’t want them to breed,” Colburn explained. “(So,) they get contraceptive implants. It’s an injectable implant that provides one year of contraception.”

Chimpanzees take birth control pills, lemurs get an injection to prevent reproduction, and remember Yogi, the allergyridden bear? He had a vasectomy.

While Colburn attends to patients at the zoo, Blandford Nature Center, another favorite West Side venue, calls on local veterinarian Dr. Rebecca Vincent when its residents need care. Vincent, a veterinarian at the Animal Medical Center of Wyoming, volunteers her time at BNC. As the costs involved in wildlife rehabilitation have prompted the center to cease taking in new animals, she now volunteers as needed, working with the permanent resident animals that are unable to be released into the wild.

Vincent cares for wildlife indigenous to Michigan, including foxes, porcupines and raptors, such as ospreys and owls; she provides examinations, vaccinations, surgeries and prescribes medications.

“We keep their quality of life good. The animals at Blandford are there because they cannot be released; they couldn’t survive

Top: Animal care workers view X-rays of a starfish with a portable radiology unit. Bottom: Dr. Ryan Colburn (second from right) works with Animal Care Supervisor Tessa Dugas and veterinary technicians Kaylee DeBoef, Heather Teater and Kelsey Wahowiak as they examine and care for a reticulated python.

AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 37

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Barred owl

“We keep their quality of life good. The animals at Blandford are there because they cannot be released; they couldn't survive in the wild. Most have had some sort of injury that would prevent them from getting food for themselves.''

- Dr. Rebecca Vincent in the wild,” Vincent said. perform such services.

“Most have had some sort “We treat wild animals of injury that would prevent differently; we use protective equipment, gloves, them from getting food for towels, (etc.),” Vincent themselves.” explained. “I have a syringe Among her patients on a pole for the bobcat. I is Bob, a bobcat who was don’t touch him until he’s once kept as a pet and is sedated; I can’t risk being declawed on all four feet. injured or someone else Bob, a senior citizen at the being injured.” center, requires medication Even cleaning an for his arthritis. animal’s living area can Love of caring for wildlife may be what moves require safety equipment, Vincent to donate her time Vincent said. and skills, yet it also is likeAlthough caring for animals is her passion, reducly the joy of seeing her sucing the numbers of wildlife cesses inspires her. needing care would be an “We had a fox (that had been) caught in a muskrat even greater joy, she said, Blandford Nature Center Wildlife Specialist Lori Lomoro (right) works with trap; her foot was bent,” she noting that well-meaning Veterinarian Dr. Rebecca Vincent as she gives an eastern screech owl a checkup. said. “We were later able to people make the mistake release her. That’s always of taking baby animals out fun when you get to let somebody go.” of the wild, assuming they’ve been abandoned by their mother — So how does being the veterinarian for Blandford Nature Center which is rarely the case. differ from her regular work in a veterinary office? Aside from the ilk Unless an animal is injured, don’t pick it up or move it, she GR of patients — and their quirky behaviors — it’s the safety required to advised.

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dining review

BY IRA CRAAVEN

The Sovengard Address: 443 Bridge St. NW, Suite 1 Grand Rapids Phone: (616) 214-7207 Website: sovengard.com

The Sovengard’s “B.A.R. food” features beets, asparagus and radishes with yogurt, chèvre, micro greens, savory granola and citrus vinaigrette.

Dining ratings: Food: *** Service: *** Beverages: *** Atmosphere: *** Price: $

Must try: Roasted pork belly

Not so much: A Walk in the Woods

Guide to ratings: **** Exceptional *** Above Average ** Satisfactory * Poor ¢ $ $$

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

(Prices based on average entrée.)

NESTLED IN GRAND RAPIDS’ West Side neighborhood, The Sovengard offers Scandinavian cuisine and a quaint, eloquent experience with a spacious biergarten in the back — perfect for those warm Michigan summer nights.

The menu features a seasonal variety of locally sourced, New Nordic-inspired fare Bartender, Claire LeFebre

to fit just about anyone’s taste and appetite — from shared plates such as smoked trout rillette and a local and artisan cheese board, to open-faced sandwiches from the “smorrebrod” section, to larger dinner portions featuring meat, seafood and vegetable options.

Upon entering the building — which can be tough to spot, as it’s tucked between two retail shops — guests are directed downstairs, where Sovengard’s warmth begins.

The floral wallpaper and exposed, whitepainted brick behind the bar lends itself to a cozy feeling. Despite being housed in a basement, Sovengard’s main dining area offers enough natural light that it doesn’t feel dark and dreary.

The biergarten features an outdoor bar and enough seating to accompany parties of all sizes — plus, there’s plenty of shade to keep guests cool during the hot summer months. It also has a bocce ball court for those looking to make the most of the warm weather.

Even with the shaded seating options, it still was too hot outside for us to enjoy the biergarten, so we cooled off with a few drinks inside. Sovengard has a nice selection of draft and bottled beers, cocktails and wines. We ordered A Walk in the Woods ($10), which is a blend of Long Road Distill-

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (PAGE 62 & 63)

The New Nordic experience

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Butterscotch budino

The menu features a seasonal variety of locally sourced, New Nordic-inspired fare to fit just about anyone’s taste and appetite. tomatoes and onions, and fresh greens. The pork was delightfully tender and the grits added a smoky texture. The buttery pan sauce only enhanced the mouth-watering flavor.

On a later visit, we shared the Swed-

ish-style meatballs with gravy ($10), which offered a rich flavor and melted in our mouths. Per our server’s recommendation, we also decided to try the housemade fried bologna ($9) — topped with fried egg, mustard, pickled onion and greens on miche — from the smorrebrod menu. We were hesitant at first but were ultimately beyond pleased with our selection, as the salty, savory and tangy flavors were a perfect combination. For the final course, the chicken and dumplings ($18) — served mixed in with carrots, asparagus and turnips — were a perfect mix between fresh fare and comfort food. The vegetables offered a slight crunch, offsetting the incredibly tender dumplings.

For dessert, we tried a butterscotch budino ($7), and we were glad we talked ourselves into it. The pudding wasn’t too rich, and the butterscotch flavor was light and airy. The accompanying cookie added a nice crunch to the smooth and flavorful pudding.

The New Nordic, locally sourced cuisine not only tastes good, but it’s good for you.

Don’t miss out on this West Side treasure.

GR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (PAGE 62 & 63)

ers’ aquavit, strawberry purée, lemon and bitters. The texture reminded us of a strawberry daiquiri, as it started out sweet but finished sour. The Devil’s Rhubarb ($9) — which also features Long Road’s aquavit, as well as rhubarb juice and simple syrup — tasted minty and refreshing, perfect for the hot weather we had to endure.

After our server explained the menu and informed us of the daily specials, we ordered the sour beer fries ($7) as an appetizer, which are fried kennebec potatoes with sour beer vinegar and dijonnaise. We didn’t taste the vinegar, but the dijonnaise complemented the thick-cut fries, which were cooked just right — not too crispy, not too soggy. We had to stop eating the generous portion, as we didn’t want to spoil the rest of the meal.

For dinner, we tried the potato-chive pierogi ($16), served with sautéed maitake mushroom, asparagus and vegetable broth.

The vegetables featured a nice crunch, and the flavor of the pierogi was rich and reminded my friend of comfort food. We also tested out the roasted pork belly ($19), served with pork grits, pan sauce, marinated

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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 85).

Angel’s Thai Café — Extensive Thai fare.

Menu includes your-choice stir-fry option.

Vegetarian friendly. No alcohol. Open daily.

136 Monroe Center NW, 454-9801. angels ¢-$ thaicafe.com. L, D Bangkok Taste Cuisine — Thai fare with lunch buffet and kids menu. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. 15 Jefferson Ave SE, 356-5550. bangkoktastegr.com. L, D ¢-$ Beijing Kitchen — Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisines. Lunch and dinner specials. No alcohol. Open daily. 342 State St SE, 458-8383. beijingkitchenmi.com. L (not Sat), D ¢-$ Bistro Bella Vita — Big-city casual; fresh French and Italian cuisine, locally sourced and prepared over a wood fire. Mammoth martini bar, nice wine selection. Open daily.

44 Grandville Ave SW, 222-4600. bistrobella vita.com. L, D $-$$ Bobarino’s at The B.O.B. — Grill on second floor of The B.O.B. offers everything from wood-fired pizza to upscale entrées. Lunch menu has deli sandwiches, salads, burgers.

Full-service bar. Outdoor seating. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ ¢-$ bobarinospizza. L, D Brick & Porter — Appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches and a nice selection of entrées; 20 beers on tap (“the darker, the better”). Open daily. 47 Monroe Center NW, 2266928. brickandportergr.com. Brunch (Sat, Sun), L, D ¢-$ Bull’s Head Tavern — Large selection of appetizers, soups and salads. Entrées include pasta, fish, chicken and steak along with burgers and sandwiches. Full bar. Closed Sun. 188 Monroe Ave NW, 454-3580. the $-$$ bullsheadtavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), D Charley’s Crab — Fresh seafood in a fine dining atmosphere with views of the Grand River.

Gluten-free menu. Beer and extensive wine

list. Sun brunch 10-2:30. Open daily. 63 Market Ave SW, 459-2500. muer.com/charleyscrab. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

➧City Built Brewing Co. — Taproom featuring a variety of craft beer; plus, Puerto Rican-inspired appetizers, small plates, entrées, soups and salads. Closed Mon-Tue. 820 Monroe Ave $ NW. citybuiltbrewing.com. L, D The Chop House — Aged prime beef, seafood, pork and lamb chops, chicken and more.

Downstairs is La Dolce Vita dessert and cigar bar. Closed Sun. 190 Monroe Ave NW, 4516131. thechophousegrandrapids.com. D $$ Cinco De Mayo — Offers the usual Mexican fare plus carnitas and steak asada. Full bar.

Open daily. 114 Monroe Center NW, 719-2401. cincodemayo1.com. L, D $ – Lounge — Soups, salads, sandwichCitysen es, burgers and small-plate creations. Beer and wine, happy hour 4-7 pm. Open daily.

CityFlatsHotel, 83 Monroe Center NW, 6081725. cityflatshotel.com/location/grand-rap ¢-$ ids. B, L, D

Cottage Bar — Longtime favorite since 1927.

Famous Cottage burgers and fries, signature chilis, burgers, full bar and more. Closed Sun. 18 LaGrave Ave SE, 454-9088. cottagebar.biz.

L, D ¢ Cygnus 27 — Stunning view from 27th floor of the Amway Grand Plaza. Menu features Mediterranean and Latin influences. Full bar.

Sun brunch 10:30-2. Closed Mon. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6425. amwaygrand.com/din ing/cygnus-27. D (Tue-Sat) $$ Divani — European-inspired food includes small plates for sharing and a variety of entrées. Full bar. Closed Sun. 15 Ionia Ave SW, $-$$ 774-9463. divanigr.com. D Flanagan’s — Downtown Irish pub features imported beers, entrées with Irish influence.

Frequent live music. Closed Sun. 139 Pearl St NW, 454-7852. flanagansgr.com. L, D ¢

Bistro Bella Vita

Founders Brewing Co. — Spacious taproom, serpentine bar and live music Thu and Sat. Menu features appetizers, deli sandwiches.

Outdoor beer garden. Open daily. 235 Grandville Ave SW, 776-1195. foundersbrewing. ¢ com. L, D Gilly’s at The B.O.B. — Handcrafted microbrews paired with seasonal fare. Tavern, small plates, seafood and more. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/ gillysrestaurant. D $-$$ GP Sports — Sports bar and restaurant. Menu features create-your-own pizzas and burgers, salads and sandwiches. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6495. amwaygrand.com/dining/gp-sports. L, D $ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. — Organic brews, hard cider, wine and spirits. Farm-to-table

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS

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à votre santé (C H E E R S)

TO THE BRIDE AND GROOM.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

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AlpenroseRestaurant.com The corner of 8th and Central Holland, MI • 616-393-2111

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Mojo’s Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant — Lively downtown spot opens for dinner at 5 pm Wed-Sat. Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, flatbread pizzas, full bar. Shows start at 8 pm Wed-Fri, 7 pm Sat. Closed Sun-Tue. 180 Monroe Ave NW, 776-9000. mojospianobar.com.

D (Wed-Sat) ¢-$

menu includes sharable plates, sausages, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Open daily. 1 Ionia Ave SW, 458-7000. grbrewing company.com. L (Sat-Sun), D ¢-$

Grand Rapids Garage Bar and Grill — “AllAmerican grub” includes burgers, nachos, sandwiches, soups and salads, full bar. Live entertainment Fri and Sat. Open daily. 819 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-0321. garagebargr.com. L, D ¢

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

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

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 St NE, 988-9350. osteriarossa.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$

The Heritage — GRCC culinary students prepare gourmet dishes from steaks to vegan.

Menu changes weekly. Wine and beer. Open Tue-Fri during school year. Applied Technology Center, 151 Fountain St NE, 234-3700. grcc.edu/heritage. L, D $-$$ Hong Kong Express — Szechuan and Cantonese. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet. No alcohol. Open daily. 150 E Fulton St, 235-2888.

L, D ¢-$ HopCat — Crafted brews with some 50 beers on tap and 150 bottled. Full bar and creative fare, including sharables, signature crack fries, burgers, wraps and more. Open daily. 25 Ionia Ave SW, 451-4677. hopcatgr.com. L, D ¢-$ FIron — Cast-iron entrées, plus seafood, duck, lamb and steak. Hot and cold appetizers, sandwiches and salads round out the menu. Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 25 Ottawa Ave SW, 228-4894. irongr.com. D $-$$

Leo’s

steakhouse offers steaks, seafood and chops.

Notable wine list. Closed Sun. 20 Monroe Ave NW, 356-2000. thebob.com/judsons steakhouse. D $$

The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck — Comfort fare and global classics in a casual atmosphere overlooking the Grand River. Menu includes appetizers, gourmet pizzas, salads and entrées. Full bar. Private dining areas. Open daily. Amway Grand Plaza, 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-3230. amwaygrand.com/dining/ the-kitchen-by-wolfgang-puck. L, D $-$$ FLeo’s — Fresh seafood, soups, salads and more in elegant yet casual atmosphere. Early dinner menu 4:30-6 pm Mon-Fri. Closed Sun. 60 Ottawa Ave NW, 454-6700. leosrestaurant. com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

Jamaican Dave’s — Chicken, goat, oxtail, beef, chicken, fish and vegetarian fare in Jamaican style. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 530 S Division Ave, 458-7875. Facebook. L, D ¢

Lucky Luciano’s — Fifty gourmet pizza options, whole or by the slice. Takeout, delivery available. Serves beer and wine. Open daily.

15 Ionia Ave SW, Suite 140, 356-4600. lucky lucianos.com. L,D ¢-$

J.D. Reardon’s — Restaurant and lounge at The Boardwalk offers American, Southwest, Thai and more. Banquet facilities. Outdoor seating. Full bar. Open daily. 940 Monroe Ave NW, 454-8590. jdreardons.com. L, D ¢-$

FLuna Taqueria y Cocina — Upscale Latin American menu pairs with locally sourced meat and produce. Full bar. Closed Sun. 64 Ionia Ave SW, 288-6340. lunagr.com. L, D ¢-$

J. Gardella’s Tavern — Massive full bar and gargantuan menu includes hearty appetizers, salads, burgers, entrées. Three floors of seating. Closed Sun. 11 Ionia Ave SW, 459-8824. jgardellastavern.com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Judson’s at The B.O.B. — Award-winning

Mazzo — From the owners of Uccello’s; housed in the former site of Tre Cugini. Modern Italian eatery featuring seafood, sandwiches, pasta and pizza; plus, full bar and happy hour Mon-Thu. Sun open for special events only. 122 Monroe Center St NW, 7731687. mazzogr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

FPalace of India — Indian cuisine with a sizeable menu that includes vegetarian selections. Lunch buffet 11-3. Open daily. 138 E Fulton St, 913-9000. palaceofindiarestaurant. com. L, D ¢-$ Parsley Mediterranean Grille — Appetizers, salads, soups, pitas, combos. Catering available. No alcohol. Open daily. 80 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-2590. parsleymg.com. L, D ¢-$ ✯Reserve — Wine bar offers extensive bythe-glass selections and culinary options to match, including charcuterie. Closed Sun. 201 Monroe Ave NW, 855-9463. reservegr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$

SHR

Rockwell Republic — Diverse menu emphasizes local ingredients from sushi to comfort food. Upper-level outdoor seating. Full bar.

Open daily. 45 S Division Ave, 551-3563. rock wellsrepublic.com. D $-$$ Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse — Classic American steakhouse in the Amway Grand Plaza.

Serves alcohol. Closed Sun. 187 Monroe Ave NW, 776-6426. amwaygrand.com/dining/ ruths-chris-steak-house. L, D $$ FSan Chez Bistro — Spanish fare focusing on tapas-style small plates; sides and entrées.

Wine and beer list includes Spanish varieties and sherry. Open daily. 38 W Fulton St, 7748272. sanchezbistro.com. L, D $-$$ Six.One.Six — Innovative cuisine sources local ingredients in a cosmopolitan setting.

Fine wines and cocktails. Alfresco dining overlooking Grand River. Open daily. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, 242-1448. ilovethejw. com/dining/six.one.six. B, L, D $-$$ Slows Bar-B-Q — Detroit-based restaurant offers extensive menu, including barbecue, sandwiches and sides. Michigan and nationContinued on page 70

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

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 ¢-$

CHA

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POWER LUNCH

Fast & Fresh 2 COURSES • $16

MONDAY — FRIDAY | 11:30AM — 4PM STARTERS CHARLEY’S CHOWDER

MARTHA’S VINEYARD SALAD

ENTRÉES SHRIMP CAESAR SALAD

IPA FISH & CHIPS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

SHRIMP & ARTICHOKE PASTA

63 MARKET AVENUE, S.W. • GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49503 • 616.459.2500 • MUER.COM GRM_08.17_PG62.87.indd 67

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Award-winning Secchia Institute for Culinary Education graduate Tammy Vander Werf sticks to her Grand Rapids roots.

Tammy takes the cake

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

T

he Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College is helping to create tomorrow’s chefs. Tammy Vander Werf, a graduated SICE student with a degree in culinary arts and an emphasis in baking and pastry arts, was chosen to receive the college’s Arthur Andrews Award, which goes to the Delta Pi Alpha student with the highest cumulative GPA and the greatest number of honor points.

Although the award recognizes a student’s commitment to academic excellence with a perfect 4.0, being a member of Delta Pi Alpha is an honor in itself — available only to students with excellent academic achievements from the top 5 percent of the graduating class. However, Vander Werf, 22, is humble about her achievements, saying, “In the culinary arts, we have five-hour labs five days a week, so I spend a lot of time in school and at work.

It’s rewarding for getting recognized for it, but it’s easy for me to get A’s in culinary because I love it so much. It’s a lot of work, but if you like doing it, it’s worth it, and I really don’t mind the hours.”

Vander Werf’s love of baking took root early. “During summers, my sister and I would go to my grandma’s house, and she’d have a bunch of recipes set out for us to make for Sunday brunch. That was always so much fun,” she recalled. As a result, she took a couple of culinary classes during her high school years at Forest Hills Eastern and found that she really enjoyed baking. An artist at heart, she toyed with the idea of going into illustration. She found that she really enjoyed working with other students and baking in the school’s mini-kitchens. After graduating high school, she took a year off before heading to college and got a job at Subway, which swayed her toward the culinary arts. “I’d heard a lot of good stuff about GRCC’s culinary program and that they offered bakery and pastry, which I like a 68 GRMAG.COM \ AUGUST 2017

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little more than cooking,” she said. “I’m really into decorating cakes, which really lets me use all of my artistic skills.”

She also worked for a year at the D&W Fresh Market bakery and tackled her internship at Rockwell Republic working as the chef garde manger and creating beautiful sushi, which she continues today. “Sushi is artsy and an extra skill that I didn’t know I’d like doing,” she noted.

“With sushi, you’re not working in the heat of a kitchen, and it’s definitely more artistic. We have an opportunity to make up our own sushi rolls and get as creative as we want.”

Vander Werf is taking this summer to build her portfolio and begin searching for a pastry chef position in a local restaurant.

“I like it here and want to stay in Grand Rapids to work,” she said.

According to Vander Werf, timing is a very important aspect of baking. “Knowing your craft, the science behind it, precise measurements… and if you can improvise, it helps a lot,” she said. “In today’s market,

there are so many allergies and dietary restrictions, and you have to know how to adapt to them.

“At Rockwell, we have to react to the customers’ needs,” she continued. “In baking, you have to find alternatives to make the science behind it work so that the product still comes out great. You have to know the significance of what each ingredient does and how it affects the final product.”

Vander Werf already has been busy making specialty cakes for family and friends. She puts a lot of effort into interpreting their ideas and translating them into the cake of her clients’ dreams. “The most important thing is putting the customer first and not putting what you want it to look like before what they want it to look like,” she said. “Being able to feed people is so rewarding. Just being able to watch people enjoy the food that you make is much more fulfilling than when I make myself food. I love making a cake and seeing people’s reaction.”

— JULIE BURCH

“In baking, you have to find alternatives to make the science behind it work so that the product still comes out great. You have to know the significance of what each ingredient does and how it affects the final product.”

— Tammy Vander Werf

Sweet and saltines Cook time: 35 minutes | 20 servings

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

35 to 40 saltine crackers 2 sticks (1 cup) butter 1 cup light brown sugar 8 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (about 11/3 cups) Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line 1 large (or 2 small) jelly-roll pans with aluminum foil, spray with nonstick cooking spray and arrange the saltines salt-side down in a single layer. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together and boil until it turns a caramel color, a few minutes. Remove from the heat and pour over the crackers, covering them evenly.

Put the jelly-roll pan into the oven and bake for 3-5 minutes, or until just bubbly, watching carefully. Remove from the oven and pour the chocolate chips over the crackers. When the chips melt a bit, spread them over the crackers with a knife. Then sprinkle the tops with a handful of crushed saltines.

Transfer the pan to the freezer for 15-20 minutes, or until completely cold. They will form one big sheet. Break up into pieces. Store in an airtight container.

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Continued from page 66 al craft beers on tap. Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 454-1588. slows ¢-$ barbq.com. 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

Social Kitchen & Bar — Refined comfort food, sandwiches, pizzas, extensive cocktail menu.

Vintage décor, patio. Open daily. Downtown Market, 435 Ionia Ave SW, 724-4464. social kitchenandbar.com/grand-rapids.html.

B $-$$ (Sat-Sun brunch), L, D

Harmony Hall — West Side brewpub with a German beer hall atmosphere serves sausages, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Open daily. 401 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9186. har ¢-$ monybeer.com/harmony-hall. L, D

SpeakEZ Lounge — Casual pub setting with eclectic menu, including vegan and glutenfree. Creative starters, soups, salads, entrées (after 4 pm). Full bar. Open daily. 600 Monroe Ave NW, 458-3125. speakezlounge.com. L, D $ Stella’s Lounge — Award-winning stuffed burgers, plus vegan and vegetarian items. Full bar, known for its whiskey selection. Open daily. 53 Commerce Ave SW, 742-4444. stellas ¢-$ gr.com. L (Fri-Sun), D Tavern On The Square — Tapas-style fare plus house specialties. Patio seating. Full bar, happy hour 3-7 Mon-Fri. Open daily. 100 Ionia Ave SW, 456-7673. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Wheelhouse Kitchen and Cocktails — Eclectic American bistro fare with seasonal recipes using Michigan ingredients. Large bar and porch. Open daily. Arena Place, 67 Ottawa Ave SW, 226-3319. wheelhousegrandrap $-$$ ids.com. L, D Z’s Bar & Restaurant — Sports-themed eatery known for its BBQ ribs. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrées. Carry-out available.

Open daily. 168 Louis Campau Promenade NW, 454-3141. zsbar.com. L, D ¢-$

WEST SIDE Blue Dog Tavern — West Michigan craft brews on tap. Good selection of tots, dogs and burgers. Open daily. 638 Stocking Ave NW, 608-6050. bluedogtaverngr.com. L, D ¢ Broadway Bar & Grill — Neighborhood bar known for burgers and holiday decorations, especially at Christmas. Outdoor grilling during summer. Hours change seasonally.

740 Broadway Ave SW, 454-0565. Facebook. ¢ L, D Butcher’s Union — Meat-and-whiskeycentric gastro-pub. Full bar. Outdoor seating available. Brunch served on Sundays. 438 $ Bridge St NW, 551-1323. Facebook. L, D El Granjero — Mexican fare from steak and shrimp to menudo on weekends. No alcohol but tasty virgin coladas. Open daily. 950 Bridge St NW, 458-5595. Facebook. B, L, D ¢

The Holiday Bar — Established in 1905, menu features appetizers and sandwiches. Seating includes 40-foot horseshoe bar, tables and a beer garden in warm months. Open daily. 801 Fifth St NW, 456-9058. theholidaybargr.com.

L, D ¢ Maggie’s Kitchen — Mexican fare in café setting, cafeteria-style ordering. No alcohol.

Closed Sun and Mon. 636 Bridge St NW, 4588583. Facebook. B, L, D ¢ The Mitten Brewing Co. — Vintage baseball-themed nanobrewery pairs handcrafted beers with gourmet pizzas. Open daily. 527 Leonard St NW, 608-5612. mittenbrewing. com. L, D ¢-$ Monarchs’ Club — Starters, sausages, hot dogs, panini, Italian beef sandwiches and Grand Rapids Stackers. Michigan beer on draft.

Open daily. 646 Stocking Ave NW, 233-9799. tappyhourgr.com/monarchs-club. L, D ¢ O’Toole’s Public House — Pub grub includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers served on a mountain of fries. Open daily. 448 Bridge ¢-$ St NW, 742-6095. otoolesgr.com. L, D Pearl Street Grill — Bright, contemporary restaurant features diverse menu in downtown Holiday Inn. Full bar. Open daily. 310 Pearl St NW, 235-1342. higrdt.com/dining/pearl$ street-grill. B, L, D Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant — Sicilian and southern Italian fare. Separate sports bar; patio seating. Food, beer and wine available to go. Delivery and catering. Open daily. 654 Stocking Ave NW, 454-4280. salvatoresgr. com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ -The Sovengard — Midwest meets Scandinavian spirit, with a focus on seasonal and local sourcing. Restaurant and outdoor beer garden in a historic West Side building. Open daily. 443 Bridge St NW, 214-7207. sovengard. com. D $

Two Scotts Barbecue — Authentic barbecue smoked in-house daily with homemade sides and sauces. Features draft root beer and weekly specials. Catering and food truck available. Open 11 am-3 pm Mon-Sat. Closed Sun. 536 Leonard St NW, 608-6756. twoscottsbbq.com. L ¢-$

UPTOWN Bombay Cuisine — Traditional Indian dishes with spices and flavors from northern India.

Full bar. Open daily. Takeout available. 1420 Lake Dr SE, 456-7055. eastownbombaycui $ sine.com. L, D Brewery Vivant — Beer and food in tradition of French and Belgian country dishes. Housed in a renovated funeral chapel. Most dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. 925 Cherry St SE, 719-1604. brewery vivant.com. L (Sat-Sun), D $-$$ Brick Road Pizza — Traditional, gourmet and vegan pizzas (gluten-free crusts available); also soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches.

Sun Brunch Bar. Full bar. Closed Mon. 1017 Wealthy St SE, 719-2409. brickroadpizza.com. ¢-$ L, D Chez Olga — Caribbean and Creole fare. Veggie/vegan options. Takeout available. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1441 Wealthy St SE, 233¢-$ 4141. chezolga.com. L, D Curry Kitchen — Authentic Indian cuisine.

Daily lunch buffet. Kids menu. Takeout. Open daily. No alcohol. 961 E Fulton St, 242-1300. $ currykitchengr.com. L, D Donkey Taqueria — Authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tostadas, botanas and tortas in a former 1920s service station. Full bar.

Open daily. 665 Wealthy St SE. donkeygr.com.

B (Sat and Sun), L, D ¢-$ East West Brewing Co. — Traditional American-style beers. Fresh, made-to-order American-style food and seasonal vegetarian menu items from local vendors. Open daily. 1400 Lake Dr SE, 288-5250. eastwest ¢-$ brewingcompany.com. L (Fri-Sat), D Electric Cheetah — Eclectic menu with an emphasis on locally grown fare and creative combinations. Beer and wine available. Sun brunch. Open daily. 1015 Wealthy St SE, 4514779. electriccheetah.com. L, D ¢-$ Elk Brewing Co. — Brewery with rustic industrial interior. Menu includes innovative sandwiches and snacks. Open daily. 700 Wealthy St SE, 238-5227. elkbrewing.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢ Erb Thai — Thai fare; will accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, no MSG. No alcohol. Open daily. 950 Wealthy St SE, 356-2573. erbthaigr. com. L, D ¢ Gojo Ethiopian Cuisine & Deli — Authentic dishes including vegetarian options. Watt (stew) dishes served with injera flatbread.

Carry-out available. No alcohol. Closed Sun and Mon. 421 Norwood Ave SE, 459-3383. gojo $ ethiopiancuisine.com. L, D

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GR MAG CITY GUIDE 2017_Layout 1 5/23/17 9:09 AM Page 1

The Best Brands!

Right in Your Neighborhood!

n is "Our Missio excepto provide ful tional, help ervice, customer s through a able knowledge ly staff, and friend d in a neat an ed well stock store." hardware

Rylee’s

Grand Rapids - 1234 Michigan St. NE 1205 Fulton St. West

Hardware

Walker - 4300 Remembrance Rd. NW OPEN Mon-Sat 8 to 8, Sunday 10 to 5 AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 71

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

FGrove — Earth-to-table concept focuses on three- and four-course offerings. Vegan menu available. Full bar. Open daily. 919 Cherry St $$ SE, 454-1000. groverestaurant.com. D Harmony Brewing Co. — Custom brews with a full bar, wine and wood-fired pizzas. Sandwiches served 11 am-4 pm. Open daily. 1551 Lake Dr SE, 233-0063. harmonybeer.com. L, D $ Little Africa Ethiopian Cuisine — Hearty vegetable stews; sauces and fixings served on Ethiopian flat bread. Sample other specialties. No alcohol. Cash or checks only. Closed Sun and Mon. 956 E Fulton St, 222-1169. Face¢ book. L, D Mangiamo! — Historic mansion houses family-friendly eatery. Italian fare plus steaks and seafood. Extensive wine list. Full bar. Open daily. 1033 Lake Dr SE, 742-0600. thegilmore $-$$ collection.com/mangiamo. D Marie Catrib’s — Middle-Eastern sandwiches, soups, salads. Deli, bakery, Turkish coffee, kids menu. Vegetarian options. Closed Sun. No alcohol. 1001 Lake Dr SE, 454-4020. mariecat ¢-$ ribs.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D (Mon-Fri) Maru Sushi & Grill — Large menu of Japanese cuisine with a twist, from sushi to hibachi grilled items. Vegetarian options. Full bar. Open daily. 927 Cherry St SE, 458-1900. $-$$ marurestaurant.com. L, D ➧Matchbox Diner & Drinks — Breakfast all day, deli sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and seasonal entrées. Also, milkshakes and malts.

No alcohol. Carry-out available. Open Daily.

1345 Lake Dr SE, 774-8641. matchboxdiner. com. B, L, D $ FTerra — Eastown eatery features food from local, ethically raised and sustainable sourcing. Specialty cocktails, Michigan craft beers, wines from small wineries. Open daily. 1429 Lake Dr SE, 301-0998. terragr.com. Brunch Sat-Sun, L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Wealthy Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner (pizza available after 4 pm).

Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 610 Wealthy St SE, 301-2950. wealthystreetbak ¢-$ ery.com. B, L, D The Winchester — Locally sourced menu includes sharable plates in century-old space.

Craft brews on draft. Full bar. Open daily. 648 Wealthy St SE, 451-4969. winchestergr.com.

B (Sat and Sun), L, D ¢-$ Yesterdog — Specializes in the “good oldfashioned hot dog.” Cash or check only. Catering available. Open daily. 1505 Wealthy St SE, ¢ 336-0746. yesterdog.com. L, D.

EAST GRAND RAPIDS Big Bob’s Pizza — Neighborhood pizza parlor in EGR’s Gaslight Village also offers appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, subs. Full bar.

Open daily. 661 Croswell Ave SE, 233-0123. ¢-$ bigbobspizza.com. L (not Mon), D ➧Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen — Coastal South Carolina-inspired fare, including seafood, chicken, pork, beef and greens. Full bar.

Open daily. 2213 Wealthy St, 805-5231. caroli $ nalck.com. D Derby Station — Sophisticated pub grub with full bar featuring an array of specialty beers. Open daily. 2237 Wealthy St SE, 3013236. derbystation.com. L, D $ José Babushka’s — Old local favorite is back after 20 years. Menu includes starters, salads, burritos, chimichangas, flaming fajitas, tacos and special plates. Full bar. Open daily. 2232 Wealthy St SE, 272-4472. josebabushkas. com. L, D $ Olive’s — Seasonally inspired menu of creative fare and comfort foods featuring local produce and meats. Full bar. Alfresco balcony. Closed Sun. 2162 Wealthy St SE, 451-8611. ¢-$ eatatolives.com. L, D Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine — Large selection of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine.

Serves beer and wine. Takeout and catering available. Closed Sun-Mon. 2228 Wealthy St SE, 456-8999. ostaslebanese.com. L (TueFri), D ¢-$ Rose’s — Dockside dining on EGR’s Reeds Lake with varied menu, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Three-season porch.

Serves beer and wine. Open daily. 550 Lakeside Dr SE, 458-1122. thegilmorecollection. $ com/roses. L, D

Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas.

Open daily. 2948 28th St SE, 977-2674. elarri ¢-$ eromexicangrill.com. L, D

Beltline Bar — Americanized Tex-Mex menu, including wet burritos. Full bar. Curbside service. Open daily. 16 28th St SE, 245-0494. beltlinebar.com. L, D $ Cabana Tres Amigos — Authentic Mexican fare including vegetarian selections. Full bar.

Takeout available. Open daily. 1409 60th St SE, ¢-$ 281-6891. cabanatresamigos.com. L, D Cantina Mexican Grill — Menu offers extensive Mexican specialties. Full bar. Drivethru window. Outdoor patio. Open daily.

2770 East Paris Ave SE, 949-9120. cantina $ mexicangrill.biz. L (Sun-Thu), D China Yi Wang — Chinese dishes including spicy Hunan. No alcohol. Open daily. 1947 Eastern Ave SE, 241-3885. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Daddy Pete’s BBQ — Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and other meats, plus desserts and sides. No alcohol. Catering available. Closed Sun and Mon. 2921 Eastern Ave SE, 818-5522. daddypetesbbq.com. L, D ¢-$ East Garden Buffet — Cantonese, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Daily buffet. No alcohol.

Open daily. 6038 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 6988933. L, D ¢-$ Florentine Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Lounge — Italian fare with American and Mexican choices and thin-crust pizzas. Full bar. Open daily. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4261 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 455-2230. florentinespizza.com. L, D ¢-$

KENTWOOD

Ganders — Features American cuisine with a twist and Michigan products, including craft brews. Open daily. 4747 28th St SE (Hilton GR Airport), 957-0100. doubletree grandrapids.com/ganders-restaurant. B, L, D ¢-$$

7 Mares — Authentic Mexican dishes including breakfast. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 1403 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 301-8555. Facebook. B, L, D ¢-$$

Golden Gate — Chinese fare with all-inclusive lunch combination plates, some hot and spicy choices. No alcohol. Open daily. 4023 S Division Ave, 534-7087. Facebook. L, D ¢

Al-Bos Eurocafe-Bakery — Authentic southeastern European cuisine. Menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, entrées and kids options. Daily specials. Open daily. 2930 Shaffer Ave SE, 325-2800. al-bos. com. L, D ¢-$

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 $

Asian Palace — Chinese and Vietnamese fare with extensive menus for each. Family-owned and -operated. No alcohol. Closed Mon. 141 28th St SE, 534-7770, Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Hall Street Bakery — Breakfast pastries; sandwiches, salads and soup served for lunch and dinner (pizza after 4 pm). Beer and wine. Kids menu. Closed Sun. 1200 Hall St SE, 214-7604. hallstreetbakery.com. B, L, D ¢-$

El Arriero Mexican Grill — Extensive menu offers specialty dishes, à la carte selections.

India Town — Indian fare including vegetarian and vegan. Lunch buffet Mon-Sat. No al-

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Life happens…

cohol. Open daily. 3760 S Division Ave, 2431219. indiatowngrr.com. L, D ¢-$

Jade Garden — Chinese cuisine with some American dishes. Children’s menu, large selection of tropical cocktails. Open daily. 4514 Breton Rd SE, 455-8888. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Ju Sushi & Lounge — Sushi and sashimi, Japanese hibachi, tempura, soups, salads and entrées in elegant surroundings. Full bar, huge sake selection. Takeout, catering and banquets. Open daily. 1144 East Paris Ave SE, 575-5858. jusushi.com. L, D ¢-$ Last Chance Tavern and Grill — Appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches and a huge selection of Michigan craft beers. Open daily. 1132 Burton St SE, 719-4270. thelast ¢ chancetavern.com. L, D Le Kabob — Soups, salads, sandwiches, large choice of entrées and combos. Kids menu.

Carry-out available. No alcohol. Open daily.

3122 28th St SE, 272-4135. L, D ¢-$ Mandarin — Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine. Cocktails. Lunch menu. Open daily.

2460 28th St SE, 530-3300. mandaringrand ¢-$ rapids.com. L, D

1-800-CARSTAR • www.carstar.com Since 1958 • Rockford • Plainfield Ave • 76th St

• D E TA I L I N G • B O D Y R E PA I R • R E S T O R AT I O N • M O T O R H O M E S • A U T O G L A S S • C A R R E N TA L

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/ ¢-$ main. L (Mon-Fri), D Mi Tierra — Traditional Mexican, eat in or drive-thru. No alcohol. Open daily. 2300 S Di¢ vision Ave, 245-7533. Facebook. L, D Nu-Thai Bistro — Appetizers, soups, Thai salads, fried rice, seafood, duck, curries and noodle dishes. No alcohol. Open daily. 2055 28th ¢-$ St SE, 452-0065. nuthaibistro.com. L, D The Old Goat — Creative cuisine in Alger Heights from Electric Cheetah owner Cory DeMint includes appetizers, entrées, sandwiches and salads, kids menu, full bar. Outdoor patio.

Open daily. 2434 Eastern Ave SE, 288-6976. baaaaaaaa.com. B (Mon-Fri), L, D ¢-$ Pal’s Indian Cuisine — Authentic Indian food, including lunch buffet 11-3. No alcohol.

Open daily. 2915 28th St SE, 957-2271. palsin $ diancuisine.com. L, D Pho Anh Trang — Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai cuisine. Daily specials. Catering. Open daily.

No alcohol. 3633 Eastern Ave SE, 246-9966. L, D ¢-$ Pho Soc Trang — Wide selection of Vietnamese offerings. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S ¢-$ Division Ave, 531-0755. L, D Pietro’s Italian Restaurant — Regional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Tuscan wines, AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 73

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

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desserts and cappuccinos. Kids menu. Takeout available. Open daily. 2780 Birchcrest Dr $ SE, 452-3228. pietrosgr.com. L, D

Shanghai Ichiban — Chinese and Japanese cuisine including sushi. Food prepared tableside by hibachi chefs in Japanese area. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 3005 Broadmoor Ave SE, 942-5120. shanghaiichiban.com. L, D $-$$ FShiraz Grille — Authentic Persian cuisine: fire-grilled kabobs, vegetarian options. Full bar. Closed Mon. 2739 Breton Rd SE, 949$-$$ 7447. shirazgrille.com. L (Fri-Sun), D Sushi Kuni — Japanese and Korean cuisine, Asian fusion fare. Traditional Japanese tatami room for groups. Serves alcohol. Closed Mon. 2901 Breton Rd SE, 241-4141. sushikuni. ¢-$$ net. L, D La Taqueria San Jose — Authentic Mexican fare in a casual, takeout setting. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. 1338 S Division Ave, 284-2297.

Facebook. L, D ¢ Thai Express — Thai specialties, spiced to customer specification. No alcohol. Closed Sun. Towne & Country Shopping Center, 4317 Kalamazoo Ave SE, 827-9955. thaiexpressgr. ¢ com. L (Mon-Fri), D Thai Fusion — Thai cuisine and fusion specials with good selection of starters and salads. Kids menu. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 3097 ¢-$ Broadmoor Ave SE, 301-8883. L, D Tokyo Grill & Sushi — Tatami rooms, sushi bars. Hibachi, teriyaki, Udon, tempura. Sake, Japanese and American beer and wine. Open daily. 4478 Breton Rd SE, 455-3433. tokyo ¢-$ grillsushi.com. L, D Trailhead Café — Family-owned and -operated café with specialty breakfast items, plus gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, soups and more. 1200 E Paris Ave SE, 2843664. trailheadcafegr.com. B, L ¢ Village Inn Pizza & Sports Grille — Longtime favorite for pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken, Mexican. Daily specials. Mon-Fri pizza lunch buffet. Full bar. Open daily. 2215 44th ¢-$ St SE, 281-1444. vipizza.net. L, D FWei Wei Palace — Chinese seafood restaurant features Cantonese cuisine, dim sum and barbecue. No alcohol. Open daily. 4242 S Division Ave, 724-1818. weiweipalace.com. L, D $ Yummy Wok — Cantonese, Hunan and Szechuan dishes. No alcohol. Open daily.

4325 Breton Rd SE, 827-2068. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

S KATIE K — A VERY SPECIAL REALTY TEAM

G

GRAND RAPIDS realtor Katie Karczewski remembers well how she came to find a career in real estate. She was pregnant with her second son living in hometown Traverse City when her mother thought out loud, “Let’s go get our real estate license.” Nothing had prepared Karczewski for her mother’s suggestion, but she didn’t say no. Within the year, Katie K was licensed to sell.

Looking back over the intervening years, home selling in the 1980s certainly wasn’t the female-dominated industry it

is today. According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly two-thirds of all homes listed and sold are by women, four of whom comprise the Katie K team with Keller Williams Realty: Katie, Tanya Craig, Allison Bok and Molly McManus.

It was Karczewski and three other local realtors representing various realtor companies that conspired to introduce Grand Rapids to Keller Williams in 2000.

“Gary Keller did things differently than other realtors which is what attracted us to him,” Karczewski said. “They were

BUSINESS SHOWCASE KATIE K TEAM

steeped in research. They were so education-based they saw shifts before they happened. And the way they treated agents and customers was different.”

It has been a win-win-win success for everyone since Karczewski began selling in Grand Rapids, joined with Keller Williams, and ten years later conceived her very own team approach to sellers and buyers. But really, contends Karczewski, few things have changed in selling and buying homes in her 33 years of doing so. “Real estate is nothing more than a numbers game; being able to turnaround the numbers in transition: ‘Can I live here?’ ‘Can I afford it?’ Customers still want their hands held, they want the bottom line and they want communication.” Technology has changed, however, as Katie K is a virtual paperless office and the manner in which people shop for homes has been greatly aided by the Internet, social media, and smart phones.

While the Katie K Team is approaching a milestone of representing 100 homes bought or sold in a calendar year, it’s never really been about her success that has driven Karczewski. It’s the customer. “Larry Leigh (former owner of Leigh’s Fashion in East Grand Rapids) taught me long ago, the customer is always right, whether they are or are not.”

You can easily pick up on Karczewski’s customer orientation when you visit her website at katie-k.com. Her intent is to continue welcoming newcomers to Grand Rapids (“Outside interest in this city is greater than ever,” she said) for another few years before she retires and gets on with doing what she most enjoys — doting on her grandchildren (soon to be four), traveling, and taking in various architectural styles on both the east and west coasts where her three sons live in New York City and San Francisco.

KATIE-K TEAM Keller Williams Realty 3237 Platinum NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (616) 575-0119 katie-k.com

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Bangkok View — Authentic Thai cuisine. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1233 28th St SW, 5318070. bangkokviewthairestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$ Blue Ginger Asian Kitchen — Noodle-based Thai dishes, chicken, seafood, beef and pork entrées, curries. Vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 5751 Byron Center Ave SW (Bayberry Market), 261-8186. blueginger ¢-$ kitchen.com. L, D ChinaTown — Asian restaurant and Japanese steakhouse with tabletop-style meals available. Full bar. Open daily. 69 28th St SW, ¢-$ 452-3025. L, D Far-East Chinese Restaurant — Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean dishes. Carryout and catering available. No alcohol. Open daily.

3639 Clyde Park Ave SW, 531-7176. Facebook.

L, D ¢-$ Frankie V’s Pizzeria & Sports Bar — Appetizers, subs, stromboli, pizza, pasta, burgers and Mexican. Outdoor patio. Full bar. Open daily. 1420 28th St SW, 532-8998. frankievs. com. L, D ¢-$ Golden 28 — Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, Vietnamese cuisine. No alcohol. Open daily.

627 28th St SW, 531-2800. L, D $ Holly’s Back Door Bar & Grill — Full menu and good selection of munchies at Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel. Full bar. Closed SunMon. 255 28th St SW, 241-1417. B, L, D $ Kitzingen Brewery — German-style appetizers and entrées, plus kids menu and some American classics. Selection of wine and locally made German craft beer. Closed SunMon. 1760 44th St SW, 805-5077. kitzingen¢-$ brewery.com. L, D Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano — Fresh food with “real Mexican flavor.” Kids menu. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1742 28th St SW, 261-2280. lindomexicogr.com. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive Thai standbys plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 2359 Health Dr SW, Suite 140, 929-2306. L (MonFri), D ¢-$ Main Street Pub — Varied appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées. Kids eat free Sun-Wed. Full bar. Open daily. 1730 28th St SW, 532-2510. mainstpub.com. L, D ¢-$ Monelli’s Italian Grill & Sports Bar — Southern Italian cuisine. Sports bar plus family-

friendly dining room with fireplace. Open daily. 5675 Byron Center Ave SW, 530-9700. monellis.com. L, D ¢-$

Tacos El Caporal — Mexican fare, with menudo Sat and Sun. No alcohol. Open daily.

1260 Burton St SW, 246-6180; 1717 28th St ¢ SW, 261-2711. B, L, D Woody’s Press Box — Complex includes two bars, patio and bowling. Sandwiches, pizza, Mexican and more. Full bar. Open daily. 5656 Clyde Park Ave SW, 530-2400. spec $ trumlanes.com. B (Mon-Sat), L, D

NORTHEAST GRAND RAPIDS 7 Monks Taphouse — Beer bar with more than 50 taps and gastropub food, including pretzel bites, burgers, salads, pesto pasta and Korean nachos. Open daily. 740 Michigan St NE, 265-5417. 7monkstap.com/grand-rapids.

L, D ¢-$ Birch Lodge — Menu includes wet burritos, sandwiches, burgers, gyros, fish baskets. Daily specials. Full bar. Open daily. 732 Michigan ¢ St NE, 458-1918. Facebook. L, D Blue Water Grill — Entrées include steaks and fish, wood-fired pizzas. Nice wine selection. Lakeside views, outdoor patio. Beer, wine and cocktails. Open daily. 5180 Northland Dr NE, 363-5900. thegilmorecollection. $-$$ com/bluewater. L, D Bud & Stanley’s — Extensive menu includes Mexican specialties, pasta, burgers and more.

Daily specials. Takeout available. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1701 Four Mile Rd NE, 361¢-$ 9782. budandstanleys.com. L, D Charlie’s Bar & Grille — Well-rounded menu features dinners from ribs, steaks and seafood to kielbasa and kraut. Also Mexican fare, sandwiches. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3519 Plainfield Ave NE, 364-0567. charlies ¢-$ barandgrille.com. L, D Cheer’s Good Time Saloon — Menu offers something for everyone in a log-cabin environment. Takeout available. Full bar. Open daily. 3994 Plainfield Ave NE, 363-1188. cheersgrandrapids.com. B, L, D ¢ Cheshire Grill — Sandwiches, soups, salads, creative burgers. Open daily for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. No alcohol. 2162 Plainfield Ave NE, 635-2713. cheshiregrill. com. B, L, D (Tue-Sat) ¢-$ Creston Brewery — More than a dozen house-brewed beers on tap at all times; plus, seasonal menu, featuring chicken, pork and beef entrées; tacos, burritos and quesadillas; soups and salads. 1504 Plainfield Ave NE,

Blue Water Grill

805-4523. crestonbrewery.com. L, D.

¢-$

Erb Thai Xpress — Thai fare for takeout only. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 820 Michigan St NE, 454-0444. erbthaigr.com/erbthai_ xpress.html. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢ Flo’s Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Bar — Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, Italian and Mexican entrées, full bar. Big screen TVs; takeout available. Open daily. 1259 Post Dr NE, Belmont, 785-1001. flossportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$ Fred’s Italian Restaurant — Longtime favorite offers Italian fare, including fresh pasta and gourmet pizza. Full-service bar. Closed Sun. 3619 Plainfield Ave NE, 361-8994. freds ¢-$ italian.net. L, D Fuji Yama Asian Bistro — Hibachi grill tables or eat in dining room with Chinese, Japanese and Thai selections. Full bar. Open daily. 1501 East Beltline Ave NE, 719-1859. fujiyamabis ¢-$ tro.com. L, D Golden Wok — Chinese cuisine with some Hunan-spiced dishes. Sunday specials. Full bar. Open daily. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE (Knapp’s Corner), 363-8880. goldenwok ¢-$ grandrapids.com. L, D Gravity Taphouse Grille — Menu items pair

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

from pizzas to steaks. Full-service bar. Kids menu. Daily specials. Open daily. 8282 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, 583-1650. 84thstpub.com. ¢-$ L, D

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From idea to completion... with craft beer suggestions. Pizzas, small and large plates. 64 craft beers on tap. Open daily.

3210 Deposit Dr NE (East Beltline at I-96), 719-4944. gravitytaphouse.com. L, D ¢-$

Graydon’s Crossing — Global pub serves traditional English pub food and world-inspired dishes. Full bar with large selection of microbrews and imported beers. Open daily. 1223 Plainfield Ave NE, 726-8260. graydonscross $ ing.com. L, D Green Restaurant — Sandwiches, salads, burgers, seafood and much more. Serves beer, wine and cocktails. Closed Mon. 2289 East Beltline Ave NE, 447-8294. greenrestau rantgrandrapids.com. L, D (Tue-Sat) $ Gus’s Original — Appetizers, salads and soups, stone-oven pizzas, gourmet sandwiches; coffees and ice cream bar. Outdoor seating. No alcohol. Open daily. 3123 Leonard St NE, 805-5599. gussoriginal.com. B, L, D ¢ Kitchen 67 — Large menu uses Michigan ingredients and includes Brann’s sizzling steaks, sandwiches, salads, small plates, pasta and more. Full bar with craft beers.

Open daily. 1977 East Beltline Ave NE, 2723778. kitchen67.com. L, D ¢-$ La Huasteca — Homemade recipes, vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1811 Plainfield Ave NE, 447-7733. Facebook. L, D ¢ Lai Thai Kitchen — Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1621 Leonard St NE, 456-5730. laithaikitchen.net.

L, D ¢-$

Everyone deserves

a healthy smile.

Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen — Specialties include thick-crust Sicilian pizza and stuffed pizza with a crispy crust. Also pasta, entrées, calzones and desserts. Full bar. Open daily.

2869 Knapp St NE, 608-6912. licarispizza kitchen.com. L, D $

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Little Lucy’s Café — Family café offers breakfast, lunch and baked goods. Crepes, omelets, deli sandwiches and build-yourown breakfast plates. Open daily. 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, 591-3149, littlelucyscafe.com B, L $-$$ Mill Creek Tavern — Comstock Park eatery offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches, full dinner options. Full bar with separate dining room. Closed Sun. 3874 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-3806. millcreektaverngr. com. L, D ¢-$ Ming Ten — All-you-can-eat Japanese/Chinese buffet, sushi bar, hibachi grill and American selections. No alcohol. Open daily. 2090 Celebration Dr NE (2nd floor), 365-3989. mingtenrestaurant.com. L, D ¢-$

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Curtis E. Hahn, D.D.S Michael J. Crete, D.D.S AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 77

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pints of interest

BY PAT EVANS

Venture to the lakeshore

Head brewer and production manager Tom Buchanan (left) with owner Ted Gedra

THREE TO TRY: Breweries on the lakeshore are a great treat, no matter what city you’re in.

> Muskegon: Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. One of my favorite breweries in the region, they’re committed to helping make Muskegon a great place, all while making great beer.

> Grand Haven: Odd Side Ales Making some of the more eclectic beers in the area, Odd Side also makes solid, normal-style beers, like the Citra Pale Ale.

> Holland: Our Brewing Co. A great city for beer, Our Brewing Co. wins this, as it’s not widely distributed like New Holland and Big Lake, but offers a fun range of tasty brews (and cocktails).

THE WARM SUMMER DAYS are a perfect excuse to escape to some of the breweries that populate the lakeshore.

Ludington is home to the newest lakeshore brewery, Ludington Bay Brewing Co., which opened its doors earlier this summer under the leadership of a former Wolverine World Wide executive. Ted Gedra retired from his career in footwear but sought an active retirement. He’s ready to take his career knowledge and use it to grow a business of his own and pass it along to future generations.

“I’m not one to sit around,” Gedra said.

“I didn’t see myself fishing or golfing all the time.”

He had followed the beer industry for a long time before finally starting to think about opening a place of his own in 2013.

His idea first started to come to life in 2015, when he bought the property his brewery sits on today, at 515 S. James St. As construction started, Gedra recruited Tom Buchanan, the longtime brewer at Jamesport Brewing Co. — which is situated across the street and just a few doors down from Ludington Bay Brewing.

Ludington Bay Brewing opened with more than 10 beers on tap and at times reaches 20. With Buchanan focusing on American ales and brewer Cory Wentworth working with German and Belgian wheat

Gedra wants to grow, even as the beer industry continues to tighten in competition — especially in the distribution world.

Ludington offers a raw beer consumer market in comparison to cities like Grand Rapids, so Gedra sees an opportunity for the market share to grow.

“We want to grow, we have room for expansion and be a brand people really enjoy,” he said. “We want to be aggressive and make really great beer and win customers.”

Compared to his footwear career, Gedra is excited about the way people work together in brewing.

“It’s such a collaborative industry opposed to footwear; it’s a breath of fresh air after years of so much competition,” he said. “The more I’m into it, the more fun I’m having.”

— Pat Evans is a writer for Gemini Publications and wrote the book “Grand Rapids Beer.” He also writes nationally on beer and spirits.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LUDINGTON BAY BREWING CO.

beers, there’s a range of beers for everyone to enjoy.

While it’s a retirement project for Gedra, he also will treat the brewery as a growing business with financial success in mind.

“Anybody who loves beer will find something in our selection,” Gedra said.

“Anything I go into and make this kind of investment, we’ll take it very seriously. It’s all about the beer, we want to deliver on our beer promise and give our patrons a great experience.”

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Nick Fink’s — Mexican fare and burgers in historic tavern. Draft beer, wine, sangria and cocktails. Closed Sun and Mon. 3965 West River Dr NE, 784-9886. the gilmorecollection. $ com/nickfinks. D Noodle Monkey — Ramen-based eatery in renovated Rak Thai Bistro space includes some Rak Thai favorites, also noodle dishes and pho. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 5260 Northland Dr NE, 363-2222. Facebook. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ ➧Palio — Ann Arbor-based eatery with an expansive menu of Italian fare. Full bar and happy hour. Open daily. 545 Michigan St NE, 719-0660. paliograndrapids.com. L, D $-$$ Reds At Thousand Oaks — Large menu features sandwiches, salads, artisan pizza and entrées. Extensive wine list, craft beers, full bar. Patio with fire pits and covered deck.

Open daily. 4100 Thousand Oaks Dr NE, 447$-$$ 7750. eatatreds.com. L, D

mangiare bene ( E AT WE L L )

PAIRS WELL WITH A TUSCAN VINEYARD. And if you lack the vineyard, savor the grilled romaine salad out on the Alpen Rose patio with a crisp glass of Riondo pinot grigio. Pulling fresh vegetables from local farms, a cherry wood bacon, bleu cheese and a white balsamic vinaigrette, this wood grilled salad created by Chef Helmut brings the best Italian flavors to the warmest tables on 8th street. Discover that Europe is closer than you think.

AlpenRoseRestaurant.com The corner of 8th and Central Holland, MI • 616-393-2111

Rezervoir Lounge — Full menu of appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches and entrées, some with Cajun flavor. Serves alcohol. Open daily. 1418 Plainfield Ave NE, 451-0010. rezlounge.com. L (Tue-Sun), D ¢-$ Rio Grand Steak House & Saloon — Texasstyle barbecue ribs, steaks and more. Full bar.

Open daily. 5501 Northland Dr NE, 364-6266. riograndsteakhouse.com. L, D $-$$ The Score — Restaurant and sports bar with large menu, more than 100 beers on tap. Open daily. 5301 Northland Dr NE, 301-0600. the ¢-$ score-restaurant.com. L, D

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LUDINGTON BAY BREWING CO.

Sheshco Grill — Mediterranean cuisine, including surf, turf and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily. 2121 Celebration Dr NE (Knapp’s Corner), 364-0600. sheshcogrill. net. L, D $ Thai Chef — Knapp’s Corner restaurant has large menu, including duck, seafood and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 1971 East Beltline Ave NE, 570-0032. Facebook. L, D $ Twisted Rooster — Classic dishes with unexpected twists. Full bar features local beers/ wines. Open daily. 1600 East Beltline Ave NE, ¢-$$ 301-8171. twisted-rooster.com. L, D Vander Mill — Seasonal menu with many locally sourced ingredients. Starters, salads, entrées and large plates served family style.

Hard ciders on tap. Open daily. 505 Ball Ave NE, 259-8828. vandermill.com. D $-$$

NORTHWEST GRAND RAPIDS

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

ian dishes using local products and Italian imports. Italian wines and liqueurs. Housemade desserts. Banquet facility. Sun brunch 11-3. Closed Mon. 5080 Alpine Ave NW, 7855344. amoretrattoriaitaliana.com. D (TueSat) $

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

No alcohol. Open daily. 4335 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 791-4488. chinachef49534.com. L, D ¢-$ China City — Chinese cuisine; lunch prices all day. No alcohol. Open daily. 1140 Monroe Ave NW, 451-3688. L, D ¢-$ Crooked Goose — Full menu of “old-school tavern favorites,” including munchies, pizzas, sandwiches and burgers, fresh greens, entrées. Full bar. Open daily. 355 Wilson Ave ¢-$ NW, 791-2362. crookedgoose.com. L, D Empire Chinese Buffet II — All-you-can-eat buffet. Seafood buffet Sat-Sun. No alcohol.

Open daily. 4255 Alpine Ave NW, 785-8880. empirechinesebuffet2.com. L, D ¢-$ Erb Thai Café — Thai fare for dining in/taking out. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 4160 Lake Michigan Dr NW, 724-4102. erbthaigr.com. L, D ¢

Fricano’s Pizza Restaurant — Famous for its thin-crust pizza. Pasta dinners with sauce that made its way to the retail market. Full bar.

Closed Sun. 5808 Alpine Ave NW, 785-5800. fricanospizza.com. D ¢-$ Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet — PanAsian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Mongolian and American. No alcohol. Open daily. 785 Center Dr NW (Green Orchard Shopping Center), 785-8200. hibachigrillsu premebuffet.letseat.at. L, D ¢ ➧Home Team Grill — Sports-themed eatery with a selection of local, domestic and international beers. Open daily. 4322 Remembrance Rd, 551-3457. hometeamgrill.word press.com. L, D ¢-$ The Highlands Pub & Grille — Casual dining with steaks, seafood, pasta and more. See website for seasonal hours. Full bar. Highlands Golf Club, 2715 Leonard St NW, 453$-$$ 1504. highlandsgr.com. L, D Hunan Chinese Restaurant — Full menu of Chinese options. No alcohol. Open daily. 1263 Leonard St NE, 458-0977. hunangrc.com. L, D ¢-$ The Landing — Casual atmosphere with

views of the Grand River. All-American favorites and monthly specials. Full bar. Open daily. 270 Ann St NW (Riverfront Hotel at U.S. 131), 363-9001. riverfronthotelgr.com/dining/ the-landing-restaurant. B, L, D $

Mr. Gyros — Family-owned restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties. Drive-thru, takeout, delivery and catering available. Closed Sun. 2260 Alpine Ave NW, 791-6660. mrgyros ¢-$ drivethru.com. L, D Perrin Brewing Co. — Comstock Park craft brewery/taproom menu includes tacos, salads, burgers, panini and more. Kids menu available. Open daily. 5910 Comstock Park Dr, 551-1957. perrinbrewing.com. L, D ¢ Swan Inn Restaurant — Home-cooked meals, huge breakfasts. Cygnet Lounge offers cocktails and nibbles. Open daily. 5182 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1245. swaninnmotel.com. ¢-$ B, L, D

Walker Roadhouse — Diverse menu with interesting twists on classic fare. Full bar.

Closed Sun. 3272 Remembrance Rd NW, 7919922. thewalkerroadhouse.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $

ADA/CASCADE/LOWELL Ada Pour House — Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a twist on comfort food. Salads, sandwiches and entrées, including fish and steak. Craft beers and wine. Open daily.

6749 E Fulton St, Ada, 920-7941, adapour $-$$ house.com. B (Sun brunch only), L, D Aryana Restaurant & Bar — Comfortable dining room in Crowne Plaza Hotel offers breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner selections from a seasonal menu and a full bar. Open daily. 5700 28th St SE, 957-1775. hiaryana. com. B, L, D $-$$

Tillman’s — Chicago-style chophouse in former warehouse district. Known for steaks but something for every taste. Full bar. Closed Sun. 1245 Monroe Ave NW, 451-9266. tillmans $-$$ restaurant.com. L, D

The Blue Moose Sports Pub — Farm-totable sports bar. Can accommodate up to 175 guests and features a food menu made with locally sourced ingredients. Open daily. 6240 28th St SE, 734-6333. Facebook. L, D ¢-$

Three Happiness Restaurant — Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan fare. Daily specials. No alcohol. Open daily. Green Ridge Square, 3330 Alpine Ave NW, 785-3888. ¢-$ threehappinessgr.com. L, D

Cascade Roadhouse — Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of traditional fare. Full bar. Closed Sun. 6817 Cascade Rd SE, 259-7439. cascaderoadhousemi.com. L, D ¢-$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Franco’s Pizza — Italian entrées, stromboli, pizza and subs. Takeout available. No alcohol. Open daily. 2103 Alpine Ave NW, 361-7307. D ¢-$

Cascade Roadhouse

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Cork — Contemporary dining with indoor and outdoor seating. Seafood, steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches, salads. Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Open daily. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. corkwineandgrille.com. L, D $-$$ The Euro Bistro — European bistro fare includes entrées, small plates, salads, woodfired pizzas. Takeout available. Full bar.

Closed Sun. 6450 28th St SE, 719-2017. euro bistrogr.com. L (Mon-Fri), D $-$$ Flat River Grill — Casual atmosphere in turn-of-century building. Comfort food, wood-fired pizzas. Full bar plus The B.O.B.’s House of Brews beers. Alfresco dining on patio. Open daily. 201 E Main St, Lowell, 8978523. thegilmorecollection.com/flatriver. L, D $-$$ La Laguna — Authentic Mexican dishes including shrimp, wraps, salads, kids menu.

No alcohol. Open daily. 6250 28th St SE, 8058821. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Little Bangkok — Extensive Thai standbys, plus some unique items. Kids meals available. Serves beer and wine. Closed Sun. 850 Forest Hill Ave SE, 808-3153. littlebangkokgr. com. L (Mon-Fri), D ¢-$ Main Street BBQ — Wood fire used to smoke ribs, brisket, chicken, sausage and pork. Rubs and sauces are gluten-free. Also serves sandwiches, wings, salads and soups. Catering.

Full bar. Open daily. 210 E Main St, Lowell, 987-3352. bbqlowell.com. L, D ¢-$ Marco New American Bistro — French country casual offers small, medium and large plates for dinner fare; salads, sandwiches and mains for lunch. Full bar. Takeout menu.

Closed Sun. 884 Forest Hill Ave SE, 942-9100. marcobistro.com. L, D $-$$ Mynt Fusion Bistro — Thai, Korean and Chinese. Renowned for its curries. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. 800 W Main St, Lowell, 9879307. myntfusion.com. L, D ¢-$

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

Ning Ye — Family-owned restaurant serves Chinese and Korean fare. No alcohol. Open daily. 6747 E Fulton St, Ada, 676-5888. ningye. info. L, D $ Noto’s Old World Italian Dining — Elegant décor, extensive classic Italian menu. Special wine cellar dinners. Lounge menu features lighter fare. Closed Sun. 6600 28th St SE, 493-6686. notosoldworld.com. D $-$$ Osaka Steakhouse & Japanese Restaurant — Asian fare, including sushi, hibachi, shabu-shabu and more. Full bar. Open daily. 4977 28th St SE, 419-4628. Facebook. L, D $

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nosh & sip

BY AMY RUIS

SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING. It’s hot, it’s sunny, it’s really time to chill. And chilling, for me at least, brings up the idea of an easy beach, picnic or porch setting with bubbles. Whatever you want to call them, they’re alive, chilly and refreshing. Drink anything from Champagne to

Chilling, for me at least, brings up the idea of an easy beach, picnic or porch setting with bubbles.

moscato, white or pink, just make sure it makes you bubbly, too!

Here are some of my summer picks — both from close to home and from all the way across the globe.

Mawby Grace: A newcomer on the scene, Larry Mawby of Michigan’s own Leelanau Peninsula is just the one to get the party started. The pinot noir grapes are carefully hand-picked, selected and blended with a few other grapes to create this pink-hued dream. This is Michigan at its most elegant and tasty.

J.P. Chenet Ice — white and rosé: While made by a larger Bordeaux producer, this new, fun, “personal-sized,” 187-milliter bottle is delicious and perfect for your next picnic. Available in semi-sweet white or dry rosé, this is perfect for all sorts of occasions: a single-glass pour to get you started while making dinner, a portable sip for your next sailing excursion or a go-to option for that party where you’re the odd man out because everyone else has a beer. It’s also great to have a few on hand as party favors, or for guests who say, “Do you have any bubbly?”

— then, you won’t have to open a whole bottle!

Zinck Cremant d’Alsace: Fruity chardonnay, crisp pinot blanc and grippy pinot noir blend together for a light — yet medium-bodied — bottle of bubbles that I can’t seem to bypass for the money (around $20). Produced in the region just outside Champagne in France, it’s made of freshly dried apricots, some toast crumbles and effervescence that is large and delicious.

Innocent Bystander — pink moscato: Though it’s far from home, Australia makes delicious wines. Grown in a hot climate, this wine is plumped with sweet fruit, yet gives an appropriate acidity — which is exciting for a moscato! It’s fun to sell (and drink) a wine produced in a place where they let the wine take shape in the vineyard and tend to the wine as “innocent bystanders.” The winemakers, not shareholders, remain accountable to their craft; and, therefore, make a delicious wine for all.

— 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

Fun with summer bubbles

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

Zeytin

Pal’s Diner — Traditional diner offers breakfast, lunch and dinner all day. No alcohol.

Closed Sun. 6503 28th St SE, 942-7257. pals ¢ diner.com. B, L, D Saburba — Specializes in takeout. Changing menu of entrées, sandwiches, soups, baked goods and coffee. Catering. Closed Sun. 7277 Thornapple River Dr, Ada, 682-5290. saburba ¢-$ ofada.com. B, L, D Schnitz Ada Grill — Schnitz Deli by day, casual fine dining by night. Full bar, happy hour 3-6. Closed Sun. 597 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682¢-$$ 4660. schnitzadagrill.com. L, D Shepards Grill & Tavern — Bar food with flair, from appetizers to sirloin. Open daily. 6246 28th St SE, 350-9604. Facebook. L, D ¢-$ Vintage Prime & Seafood — Intimate setting with upscale menu that includes prime steaks and fresh seafood. International wine list. 5500 Cascade Rd SE, 949-0570. $$ vintageatcork.com. D

IN PIZZA

Zeytin — Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.

Full bar, beer and wine lists. Takeout. Open daily. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 682-2222. zeytin $ turkishrestaurant.com. L, D

WE TRUST

GRANDVILLE/HUDSONVILLE/ GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

Bangkok Taste — Thai fare. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 674 Baldwin St, 667-8901. bangkok ¢-$ taste.com. L, D The Dungeon — Mexican food and American favorites. Specialty burgers. Full bar with Michigan craft beers. Kids menu. Open daily.

3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon.com. L (Fri-Sun), D ¢-$ El Burrito Loco — More than 70 Mexican selections plus a few American options. Daily food and drink specials. Full bar. Open daily.

4499 Ivanrest Ave SW, Grandville, 530-9470. elburritolocorestaurant.com ¢-$

www.uccellos.com Grandville | Grand Rapids Standale | Rockford | Caledonia

www.herbandfirepizzeria.com Grandville | Grand Rapids

GrandVilla — Steaks, all-you-can-eat fish, AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 83

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food & drink RESTAURANTS / PEOPLE / REVIEWS

craft beer. Catering. Open daily. 109 Courtland St, 863-3300. marinadespizzabistro. com. L, D ¢

Rockford Brewing Co.

Ramona’s Table — Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups, burgers, small plates, homemade desserts. Farm-to-table specials. Michigan beers, wine. Kids menu. Open daily. 17 Squires St Square NE, 951-7100. ramonas ¢-$ table.com. L, D Rockford Brewing Co. — Located alongside Rogue River. Menu features wings, salads, gyros, burgers, as well as gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Brunch served 11 am-4 pm Sunday. Hand-crafted brews on tap. Open daily. 12 E Bridge St, 951-4677. rockfordbrew ¢-$ ing.com . L, D Timbers Inn — Appetizers to meat ’n’ potatoes fare in lodge-like surroundings. Full bar.

Open daily. 6555 Belding Rd NE, 874-5553. ¢-$ timbersinn.net. L (Wed-Sun), D

ly. 5234 36th Ave, Hudsonville, 209-5098. whiteflamebrewing.com. L, D ¢-$

Hudsonville Grille — Varied menu includes Mexican favorites and breakfast. Full bar, catering and banquet services. Closed Sun. 4676 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 662-9670. hud ¢-$ sonvillegrille.com. B, L, D

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

Full bar. Open daily. 8521 Belding Rd, 8747290. thegilmorecollection.com/bostwick. L (weekends), D $-$$

Osgood Brewing Co. — Craft brewery serves shareables, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, pasta and salads. Kids menu. Open daily.

4051 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 432-3881. osgoodbrewing.com. L, D ¢-$ Pike 51 Brewing Co./Hudsonville Winery — Craft brewery and winery under one roof.

Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrées.

Open daily. 3768 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, 662-4589. hudsonvillewinery.com. L, D ¢-$ Rainbow Grill — Breakfast, soup and sandwiches, daily lunch specials, chicken, fish and other dinner staples. No alcohol. Closed Sun. 4225 32nd Ave, Hudsonville, 896-0033; 4158 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 534-8645. rainbowgrillmichigan.com. B, L, D ¢-$ Rush Creek Bistro — Diverse menu in clublike surroundings. Weeknight and happy hour specials at full-service bar. Open daily.

Sunnybrook Country Club, 624 Port Sheldon Rd, Grandville, 457-1100. rushcreekbistro. com. L, D $ White Flame Brewing Co. — Small production brewery with taproom. Sandwiches, wraps, appetizers and a couple twists on the classic macaroni and cheese. Open dai-

ROCKFORD AREA

Boulder Creek Restaurant — Golf Club restaurant has varied menu. Golf course views from inside or deck. Serves alcohol. See website for seasonal hours. 5750 Brewer Ave NE, Belmont, 363-1330, ext 2. bouldercreekgolf ¢-$ club.com/restaurant. L, D ➧Cedar Springs Brewing Co. — German-style brewery features American pub and traditional Bavarian menu. Open daily. 95 N Main St, Cedar Springs, 696-2337. csbrew.com. L, D $ Corner Bar — Famous for brews and chili dogs but with extensive menu. Open daily. 31 N Main St, 866-9866. rockfordcornerbar.com.

L, D ¢ Grill One Eleven — American-with-a-twist menu, full-service bar and lounge. Open daily. 111 Courtland St, 863-3111. grilloneeleven. $-$$ com. L, D Honey Creek Inn — Pub setting offers beyond pub fare and daily specials. Closed Sun. 8025 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Cannonsburg, 8747849. cannonsburgvillage.com. L, D ¢-$ Marinades Pizza Bistro — Wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches. Michigan

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Anna’s House — Breakfast, sandwiches, baked goods and exceptional desserts; dinner menu, too. No alcohol. Open daily. 3766 Potomac Circle, Grandville; 3874 Plainfield Ave NE; 2409 East Beltline Ave SE, (866) 672$ 6627. annashouseus.com. B, L Arnie’s Bakery & Restaurant — Breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and sandwiches. Menu includes extensive gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options. No alcohol. Open daily.

722 Leonard St NW, 454-3098; 2650 East Beltline Ave SE (Centerpointe Mall), 9567901; 777 54th St SW, 532-5662; 34 Squires St, Rockford, 866-4306. arniesrestaurant.com. B, L, D $ Brann’s Steakhouse & Sports Grille — Famous sizzler steaks, small plates, sandwiches, salads, gluten-free and vegetarian choices, bar munchies. Full bar. 401 Leonard St NW, 454-9368; 3475 Fairlanes Ave SW, Grandville, 531-6210; 4157 S Division Ave, 534-5421; 5510 28th St SE, 285-7800. branns.com. L, D $ First Wok — Mandarin, Hunan, Szechuan cuisine. Full bar. Open daily. 2301 44th St SE, 281-0681; 6740 Old 28th St SE, 575-9088; 3509 Alpine Ave NW, 784-1616. firstwokgr. com. L, D $ The Green Well Gastro Pub — Menu features comfort fare with a flair, emphasizing local ingredients. Full bar; more than 20 rotating draft beers, many from local breweries. Open daily. 924 Cherry St SE, Grand Rapids, 8083566; 8 E Bridge St NE, Rockford, 884-4100. L, D $-$$ Herb & Fire Pizzeria — Fast-casual atmo-

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

specialty burgers, daily specials, salad bar.

Kids menu. Full bar. Open daily. 3594 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, 538-1360. villadungeon. ¢-$ com. L, D

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sphere with Italian accent. Signature and create-your-own pizza options, flatbread sandwiches and salads. 3180 44th St SW, Grandville, 773-1443; 2121 Celebration Dr NE, Suite 250, 773-1895. herbandfirepizzeria. com. L, D. $

Peppino’s Pizzeria and Sports Grille — Italian/American menu. Full bar. Open daily. 130 Ionia Ave SW, 456-8444; 1515 Eastport Dr SE, Kentwood, 554-8880. peppinospizza.com. L, D ¢-$$ Pita House — Sami’s gyros, Middle East specialties. No alcohol. Open daily. 1510 Wealthy St SE, 454-1171; 3730 28th St SE, 940-3029. thepitahouse.net. L, D ¢ Sundance Bar & Grill — Southwestern-infused cuisine, margarita bar. Open daily. Waters Building, 151 Ottawa Ave NW, 776-1616; 5755 28th St SE, Cascade, 956-5644. sun dancegrill.com. B, L, D (Mon-Sat) $ Uccello’s Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge — Italian specialties, including pizza, entrées, burgers, sandwiches. Full bar. Open daily. 2630 East Beltline Ave SE, 954-2002; 3940 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 2499344; 4787 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Standale, 735-5520. uccellos.com. L, D ¢-$ Vitale’s Pizzeria — Multiple locations serving pizza, pasta and more from family recipes.

Full bar. 400 Ada Dr SE, Ada, 676-5401, vitales ada.com; 5779 Balsam Dr, Hudsonville, 6622244, vitaleshudsonville.com; 834 Leonard St NE, 458-8368, theoriginalvitales.com; 3868 West River Dr NE, Comstock Park, 784-5011, vitalessportsbar.com. L, D ¢-$

Enjoy delicious food and crafted cocktails in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids!

83 Monroe Center St NW / Downtown GR / cityflatshotel.com / 616.608.1720

Mid-Century for the

Dining Guide Legend

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

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 ✯ — GRM’s 2016 Restaurant of the Year F — GRM’s 2016 Dining Award Winner Additions, corrections and/or changes: Please email stincher@geminipub.com or write to Dining Guide, Grand Rapids Magazine, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Modern

Lifestyle Custom made your way

1428 Plainfield Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505 616.459.4167 www.stonesthrowliving.com AUGUST 2017 / GRMAG.COM 85

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cocktail hour

BY TORRENCE R. O’HAIRE

Wine punch recipes to try

All of these recipes may be easily halved or doubled, and the instructions for each are the same: throw everything into a pitcher or punch bowl, stir and serve over ice. Done.

Remember, all of these improve after a few hours in the refrigerator, but it’s not necessary (though if you are storing them for later, it goes without saying that you’d leave the ice out).

PATIO SEASON IS UPON US, and as any suburban socialite has known since about 1970, dumping a bunch of leftover wine into a bucket with a bag of cheap frozen fruit and whatever half-empty bottle of booze you’ve got in the cupboard turns out a non-toxic version of sangria to lubricate a sunny afternoon.

But, as we learn better cocktail techniques together, wouldn’t it be nice to up your wine punch game, as well?

What we’re truly discussing is wine punch; and even though sangria is the most famous iteration of it, there is a multitude of classic wine punches that rival sangria in their deliciousness.

A punch, in its most basic form, is written as a balance of “something sour, something sweet, something strong and something weak,” with the addition of spices for flavor.

For a standard sangria, the sour ingredient is the wine, the sweet is the fruit (and often liqueur or sugar), the strong is brandy and the weak is usually fruit juice and/or sparkling water (or arguably, the wine does double duty as both “weak” and “sour”). This is the simplest way to compose a wine punch recipe for any purpose, so long as you bring these four elements into balance.

The most critical thing to recognize when making a wine punch is purpose. As much “fun” as a strong cocktail can be for some people, making a pitcher or bowl is supposed to be a drawn-out social affair; so, if you make your punch particularly high-octane, the party will be over (or will have gone horribly awry) before the vessel is even half empty. Ease up on the liquor, and your guests will thank you.

Similarly, an overly sweet or overly tart wine punch might be tasty for some

people, but if you’ve given your friends a stomachache before they’ve finished their second glass, you’ve made a bad punch. Be modest on the sugar and acid.

Also, as much as one is tempted to use wine punch/sangria as an excuse to utilize spoiled or disliked wine/spirits, use caution: if your ingredients taste bad, your punch will taste bad, and the efforts you’ll go through to “fix” foul flavors will simply waste your ingredients. By no means should you use your topshelf stuff to make a punch, but certainly don’t bother “saving” unpleasant things in the hopes that they’ll successfully hide in your sangria.

Finally, since wine punches are drawnout social affairs, make sure to set out snacks!

Wine punches are so simple and so adaptable, it’s a great opportunity to play with food and flavor pairings as you nosh and sip in the sunshine.

Enjoy these summer sangrias!

— Torrence R. O’Haire, of The Starving Artist, is a chef, entrepreneur and restaurant consultant specializing in wine, spirits and cocktails. He also founded the Grand Rapids Cocktail Guild.

Claret Cup A balanced, not-too-sweet, classic English wine punch that’s absolutely delicious — I’d drink this all day and into the evening.

1 750-milliliter bottle of red Bordeaux wine

(a basic Trader Joe’s $6 bottle is fine) 8 ounces cream sherry 8 ounces Cointreau 4 ounces fresh lemon juice 4 ounces simple syrup

1 ounce angostura bitters (or just a whole ton of

dashes, if you don’t want to measure) 1 750-milliliter bottle of sparkling water

(San Pellegrino is perfect) Fresh mint, lemon slices and cucumber

slices to garnish

PHOTOGRAPHY AND ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY THINKSTOCK

A knockout punch

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Sun Basque-ing Based on a kalimotxo, a bizarrely delicious combo of red wine and Coca-Cola, this Spanish riff is one of the best possible combos with burgers on the grill. Trust me.

1 750-milliliter bottle of Spanish red table wine

(something garnacha-based is perfect) 3 8-ounce bottles of Coca-Cola (preferably the

Mexican-made, real-sugar stuff) 8 ounces Appleton Estate 8-year-old Rum 4 ounces fresh lemon juice 2 ounces honey 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Fresh orange slices and strawberries to garnish

Located within the historic Heartside district, Rockwell Republic is a lively gastropub with made-from-scratch, seasonal cuisine as eclectic as the environment itself.

45 S. Division Ave • Grand Rapids • 616.551.3563 • RockwellsRepublic.com

Carioca Cup This one actually does require at least two hours to infuse, and requires that you strain the banana-infusion (otherwise the texture is dreadful). But, throw a tropical porch-party and this punch will be the absolute star.

12 ounces pisco, infused for at least two hours

with 1 cup dried banana chips, then strained 1 750-milliliter bottle of unoaked chardonnay

(preferably from a warm area, like Australia) 4 ounces fresh lime juice 1 /2 cup brown sugar 1 750-millileter bottle of sparkling water 1 pineapple, peeled, cored and chopped to bits Fresh nutmeg to sprinkle on top, and pineapple

slices to garnish

I love sherry and love to spread its underappreciated, savory qualities among my friends. Here’s a simple, dry food-friendly way to turn people on to its idiosyncrasy.

PHOTOGRAPHY & ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY THINKSTOCK

PHOTOGRAPHY AND ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY THINKSTOCK

Sherry, Cobbled

1 750-milliliter bottle of fino sherry 1 750-milliliter bottle of sparkling water 8 ounces pure apple juice 4 ounces fresh lemon juice 2 ounces simple syrup Lemon twists and Spanish green olives, to garnish

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cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN

BY ANN BYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN

CARE Founder and Director Judy Genson-Wadsworth works with ensemble members (from left to right) Katiri Hodgkinson, Paige Endres, Rose Kromer, Kiana Armstead, Emily Foster and Claire Meyer.

The Creative Arts Repertoire Ensemble offers dance education with philosophy of empowering GR’s youth.

Dancing with a purpose

T

he Creative Arts Repertoire Ensemble cares about kids. That was one of the goals for Judy Genson-Wadsworth, who started the nonprofit dance company back in 1992.

“I had come from another ballet company that didn’t care about kids. They wanted everyone to look pencil thin and be serious,” she said. “But there are a lot of kids who just want to dance.”

With not much to do after years of performing in New York and Grand Rap-

ids — she was principal dancer for the Grand Rapids Civic Ballet Company for two decades and became artistic director of the junior company — husband Trent Wadsworth and friend Robin Kobel suggested she do something with kids. They decided to start a repertory company with education as its mission.

“We wanted to educate not just the kids in the company but also young people in the community about dance and ballet,” Genson-Wadsworth said. “We teach our

CARE’s 2017-18 season Oct. 7-8: “Sleeping Beauty” Nov. 24, 25, 26: “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” February (date TBA): “Cinderella” For more information, call 464-3682 or visit careballet.org.

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“We wanted to educate not just the kids in the company but also young people in the community about dance and ballet.

We teach our students about dance, life, the world, nutrition and all the things that make a person whole.”

— Judy Genson-Wadsworth

Paige Endres, Katiri Hodgkinson, Rose Kromer, Kiana Armstead, Emily Foster and Claire Meyer dance with the Creative Arts Repertoire Ensemble.

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cause & effect PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE IN WEST MICHIGAN

students about dance, life, the world, nutrition and all the things that make a person whole.”

A repertory company recycles ballets, performing them every five to seven years, while a traditional ballet company doesn’t reperform classic ballets nearly that often.

CARE recycles ballets and also shortens them.

“We felt it would be more palatable to take a three-hour classical piece and (use) the good, fun parts and make the performance an hour long,” Genson-Wadsworth said. “It’s much easier for dads to watch a ballet for an hour.”

Its signature performance is “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” performed each year during the holiday season. GensonWadsworth choreographed the show based on Clement C. Moore’s famous poem. Years ago, the first performance featured eight

A bittersweet change

CARE Founder and Director Judy Genson-Wadsworth

Judy Genson-Wadsworth, who founded the Creative Arts Repertoire Ensemble in 1992, is stepping down from her role as artistic director this season.

After 25 years of leading CARE, it comes as no surprise Genson-Wadsworth has mixed emotions about stepping down.

“I know changes will come — it’s inevitable. But, I won’t ever stop working and my hands will still be in CARE,” she said. “And I have three beautiful grandchildren, so I’ll spend time with them.”

Her husband, Trent Wadsworth, will stay on as CARE’s technical director, with Heather Liskiewitz becoming artistic director and Judith VandenBosch as ballet mistress.

“Miss Judy is so great,” student Harrison Centner said of GensonWadsworth. “She puts so much hard work and time into productions and classes and works with us one-on-one to improve.

“She’s really approachable,” he added. “I’m sad she’s retiring, but she’ll still be around, so we’ll get to see her.”

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dancers who constantly changed costumes for different scenes.

Now, each performance has a cast of 76, with 30 doing most of the dancing.

She’s added several scenes over the years, with even the tiniest dancers having roles as mice and the littlest stocking.

CARE also has performed “Carnival of the Animals,” based on a book by actor John Lithgow, as well as “Romeo and Juliet,” “Giselle” and many others.

Harrison Centner, a high school junior, has been dancing with CARE for more than five years. He attended his sister’s performances and thought dancing looked “cool.”

“I like expressing myself in a different way than other sports,” he said. “I have to be artistic and athletic.”

Centner has performed in “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” “Carnival of the Animals,” “Cinderella,” “Pied Piper,” “Peter and the Wolf” and many others. His favorite role was playing the dwarf that helped the White Witch in “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

CARE dancer Harrison Centner

“It’s really exciting to dance in front of an audience. You put in so much time and work, and it usually pays off,” he said. “I love to see the kids smile and be happy at the school shows.”

After years of performing at St. Cecilia Music Center, performances currently take place at the East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center. CARE also has graced the stages of the Women’s City Club, Ladies Literary Club and Fountain Street Church. CARE moved into its studios, 2661 29th St. SE, in 2006 — which is the same year the group created the Conservatory of Ballet as part of its educational arm.

“We needed the rehearsal space, and we needed our own space,” Genson-Wadsworth Ballet mistress and head said. “This space has so much seamstress Heather space and light; I knew we needLiskiewitz gets Isabella ed a happy place. It’s Brady-Peters ready for all about life and light.” a performance.

One of the pillars of CARE is perforwhen they leave the show,” Genson-Wadmances for area school children, sworth said. “I hear, ‘I want to be a dancer!’ particularly those who might and, ‘She came to our school!’ They are all not ever see a dance/ballet perexcited.” formance. When CARE began Funding for CARE comes through priin 1992, schools paid for those vate donations, corporate sponsors and performances. But when CARE ticket sales; its annual budget is $220,000. became a nonprofit in 2001 — and Genson-Wadsworth, seven teachers and as schools began to face dwinher husband are on staff, with hundreds dling funding — Genson-Wadof volunteers helping throughout the year. sworth found corporate sponsors Each show needs 50-60 volunteers to do to underwrite ticket prices and everything from building sets to making bussing to get kids to the EGR costumes to acting as doormen for the perPerforming Arts Center. formances.

CARE does five school perCARE offers a wide range of classes, as formances each year: two for the well. Children ages 3-5 can attend Wee Can fall show, two for the winter show Dance, Pre-Ballet and Mommy & Me classes and one performance of, “’Twas weekly; adults can participate in Zumba, the Night Before Christmas.”

Pilates and yoga, beginning and advanced Anne King, who retired from ballet classes, and tap classes. CARE Camp GRPS and is a CARE board memtakes place Aug. 14-17, with classes for ages ber and a CARE dancer, visit the 6-8, 9-12 and 13 and up. The final showcase school prior to the event to give is scheduled for Aug. 18 at 11:30 a.m. There’s kids a taste of what they’ll see even Fairy, Princess & Knight Camps in June and encourage them to use propand July for boys and girls ages 3-6.

GR er etiquette, such as being quiet, removing hats and sitting quietly.

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august events A FEW GREAT THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH!

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP); COURTESY ESSENCE GROUP RESTAURANTS (LEFT); ILLUSTRATION COURTESY THINKSTOCK (RIGHT)

SPECIAL EVENTS Aug. 9-20 RESTAURANT WEEK GRAND RAPIDS: More than 50 local restaurants offer fixed-price dinner menus ($28) and some offer lunch menus ($14). experience gr.com/restaurant-week/restaurants-menus.

Aug. 12 GRAND HAVEN SAND SCULPTURE CONTEST: Teams, families and individuals are judged and awarded prizes after two-and-a-half-hour contest on beach. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Grand Haven City Beach. grandhavenchamber.org/sandsculpture-contest.

MUSIC Aug. 19-20 GRANDJAZZFEST: Sixth annual free jazz festival featuring local and national musicians with headliner Richard Elliot (Sat.). Noon-10 p.m. Sat., 1-9 p.m. Sun. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St. NW. grandjazz fest.org.

THRU AUG. 11 “WORKING: THE MUSICAL”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre explores the lives of 26 Americans from all walks of life. hope.edu/hsrt. See Stage & Film

AUG. 3-6 - STATE GAMES OF AMERICA:

AUG. 3, 10 - GRAM ON THE GREEN: Out-

AUG. 10 - MMA LECTURE: Muskegon

Olympic-style competition of amateur athletes from Michigan includes 40 sports in multiple venues. stategamesofmichigan. com. See Sports

door music concerts with dancing, food trucks and cash bar. 6-9 p.m. Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center St. NW. art museumgr.org. See Music

Museum of Art presents “Standing Rock: A Report from the Field” by Levi Rickert. muskegonartmu seum.org. See Lectures & Workshops

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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, email caleditor@ geminipub.com, fax (616) 459-4800. High-resolution photos welcomed. To meet publishing deadlines, information must be received two months prior to monthly magazine issue by the 10th of the month.

SPECIAL EVENTS Thru Aug. 6 - Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival: National festival honors the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard with parades, music, carnival, picnic, kids activities, car show/cruise, ship tours and fireworks. coastguardfest.org.

Thru Aug. 31 - Holland Street Performers: Musicians, acrobats, face painters, balloon artists, jugglers and magicians perform along Eighth Street. 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Thu. Free. downtownholland.com.

Thru Sept. 14 - Relax at Rosa: Free musical lunchbreaks noon-1:30 p.m. every Thu. Aug. 3, Watching for Foxes. Aug. 10, Blue Soul Express. Aug. 17, May Erlewine with Max Lockwood and Michael Shimmin. Aug. 24, Big Dudee Roo. Aug. 31, Juan Daniel Castro Quintet. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St. NW. downtowngr.org.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY FASTPHOTOPRO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY QUIRIN (TOP); COURTESY ESSENCE GROUP RESTAURANTS (LEFT); ILLUSTRATION COURTESY THINKSTOCK (RIGHT)

Thru Sept. 12 - Truckin’ Tuesdays: Food trucks at Calder Plaza 11 a.m.-2 p.m. every Tue.; hosted by GR Food Truck Association.

250 Monroe Ave. NW. facebook.com/grfood trucks.

Aug. 3 - Bowl-a-Rama: Franciscan Life Process Center hosts an evening of bowling, benefiting the scholarship fund for music therapy, counseling and other services. 5:309 p.m. Northfield Lanes, 2222 Plainfield Ave. NE. $500/team of 6. lifeprocesscenter.org.

Aug. 4 - August in Ada: Free rides, games, crafts, food and entertainment. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Ada Township Park, 1180 Buttrick Ave. SE, Ada. adabusinessassociation.com.

Aug. 4 - First Friday Gallery Hop: Participating businesses stay open 6-9 p.m., presented by Avenue for the Arts. South Division between Fulton and Cherry streets. avenue forthearts.com/first-friday-gallery-hops.

Aug. 5 - Art in the Park: Forty-eighth annual juried fine arts and crafts fair with 300 artists.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Centennial Park, 250 Central Ave., Holland. hollandfriendsofart.com.

Aug. 6 - Nitro Circus Live: More than 30 international acts perform stunts and tricks, including freestyle motocross, BMX, scooter and inline. 7 p.m. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 W. River Drive NE, Comstock Park. $79. nitro circus.live.

Aug. 7-12 - Kent County Youth Fair: Activities include tractor/horse/pony pulls, theater, dance, karaoke, music, talent show, carnival and food. Kent County Fairgrounds, 225 S. Hudson St., Lowell. kcyf.org.

Aug. 9-20 - Restaurant Week Grand Rapids: More than 50 local restaurants offer fixed-price dinner menus ($28) and some offer lunch menus ($14). experiencegr.com/ restaurant-week/restaurants-menus.

October 24, 2017 Grand Rapids Civic Theatre More details at grbj.com!

Aug. 10 - Curiosity & Cocktails: Live entertainment, strolling dinner, cocktails, “curiosity stations” with hands-on experiments and demonstrations; benefits Van Andel Education Institute. 6-9 p.m. 216 N. Division. $75. vai.org/event/curiosity-cocktails.

Aug. 10-12 - Del Shannon Days: Annual Coopersville celebration with Kids Fest (Thu.) and Del Shannon Car Show (Fri.-Sat.), plus music, food and craft show. delshannon carshow.org.

SPONSORED BY

Aug. 11-12 - Celebrate Kentwood: Fiftieth anniversary celebration includes classic car show and Kentwood’s Got Talent on Fri., and Breton Street Fair, inflatables, carnival games, food trucks, beer garden, live music and fireworks on Sat. Kentwood City Hall Lawn, 4900 Breton Road SE. kentwood50.com.

Aug. 11-12 - Holland Sidewalk Sales: More

AUG. 11-12 - VINTAGE AND BLUEBERRY FEST:

AUG. 26 - EAT DIRT MUD RUN: 5K course with

Features vintage vendors, classic car show, petting zoo, pie-eating contest and more.

Downtown Grandville. cityof grandville.com. See Special Events

obstacles, slide and mud.

Participants can run solo or in teams. 1200 60th St. SE, Kentwood. $49-$65 adults, $25-$30 kids. grandrapids mudrun.com. See Sports

Contact sponsor@grbj.com or call 616.459.4545 for sponsorship opportunities

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than 100 merchants bring great deals outdoors. Also, street performers, food booths and more. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. Downtown Holland. downtownholland.com.

ing, crafts and food. 3-10 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 330 Lakeside Drive NE. grgreekfest.com.

Aug. 11-12 - Vintage and Blueberry Fest: Fourth annual event includes vintage vendors, classic car show, live music, food, carnival, petting zoo, pie-eating contest. Chicago Drive, downtown Grandville. cityofgrandville. com.

Aug. 19 - Art on the Riverfront: Seventeenth annual outdoor juried art show features painting, photography, pottery, jewelry, glass, wood and metal. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Grand Haven City Marina. visitgrandhaven.com.

Aug. 12 - Grand Haven Sand Sculpture Contest: Teams, families and individuals are judged and awarded prizes after two-anda-half-hour contest on beach. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Grand Haven City Beach. grandhavencham ber.org/sand-sculpture-contest.

Aug. 13 - Vintage Street Market: Sixtyvendor monthly market at Downtown Market with furniture, clothes, accessories, kitchen goods, home décor. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. vintagestreetmarketgr.com.

Aug. 13 - World’s Largest Food Truck Rally: Dozens of national food trucks. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Berlin Raceway, 2060 Berlin Fair Drive, Marne. Free admission. Facebook.

Aug. 16-19 - AQS Quilt Show: American Quilter’s Society presents workshops, contests, materials and supplies from 300 vendors, plus hundreds of quilts on display. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $14, $11 members. quiltweek.com.

Aug. 16-20 - Michigan Fiber Festival: Shows, competitions, workshops, shopping, live music and food. Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan County Fair Drive. michiganfiber festival.info.

Aug. 17 - Saugatuck & Douglas Sidewalk Sales: Merchant sales, music and activities.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. saugatuck.com.

Aug. 17 - Taste of EGR: Food, shopping, live music and kids activities. 5-9 p.m.

Wealthy Street between Croswell Avenue and Lakeside Drive, East Grand Rapids. eastgr.org.

Aug. 17-20 - Danish Festival: Annual celebration includes Hans Christian Andersenthemed events, arts and crafts fair, parades, food booths, live music, car show. Greenville. danishfestival.org.

Aug. 18-19 - Grand Haven Sidewalk Sales: Area merchant sales and entertainment. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. Washington Avenue between Harbor Drive and Third Street. visitgrandhaven.com.

Aug. 18-20 - Yassou! Greekfest: Seventh annual cultural festival with live music, danc-

Aug. 19 - Tribute on the Grand: Founders Brewing Co. hosts live entertainment, family-friendly activities, food trucks, beer tent; benefits Grand Rapids Whitewater. 2-10 p.m.

Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. Free. foundersbrewing.com/events/tribute-onthe-grand-2.

Aug. 19 - Walk the Beat: Grand Haven hosts 60 musicians at 30 venues in competition; public votes for winner. 1-5 p.m. walkthebeat. org.

Aug. 19 - White Party: Fundraiser for West Shore Aware with open bar, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, auctions, entertainment and dancing.

6:30 p.m. Laketown Conference Center, 6069 Blue Star Hwy., Saugatuck. westshoreaware. org.

Aug. 19-20 - Mini Maker Faire: Fourth annual science fair/invention festival with more than 150 makers, including robotics, urban farming and sustainability, alternative energy, crafts, food and educational installations.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., noon-5 p.m. Sun. Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW and GVSU Kennedy Hall of Engineering, 301 W. Fulton St. grpm.org.

Aug. 21-26 - Hudsonville Community Fair: Live music, midway, tractor pulls, monster truck show, 4-H shows, kids activities. 8 a.m.11 p.m. 5235 Park Ave., Hudsonville. $4 adults, kids under 12 free. hudsonville-fair.com.

Aug. 24 - Kelly-Miller Circus: Tri-Cities Kiwanis presents a circus with animals and games. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Harbor Island, Grand Haven. $12 adults, $8 kids under 12. tricitieskiwanis.org.

Aug. 25 - Rockin’ for the Showboat: Fundraiser to rebuild the Lowell showboat includes live music, concessions, beer and cocktail garden. 6 p.m. Riverwalk Plaza along Flat River, downtown Lowell. Free; donations accepted. discoverlowell.org.

Aug. 25-26 - 28th Street Metro Cruise: Thirteenth annual cruise with 15 miles of cars on 28th Street through Grandville, Wyoming, Grand Rapids, Kentwood and Cascade. Plus, food, entertainment and vendors. 4-10 p.m.

Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat. 28thstreetmetrocruise. com.

Aug. 25-27 - Hispanic Festival: Hispanic Center of West Michigan’s 40th annual festival includes entertainment, food and activities celebrating Latin American heritage.

11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun. Calder Plaza, 250 Monroe Ave. NW. Free. hispanic-center.org/hispanic-festival.

Aug. 25-27 - Polish Festival: Celebration of Polish food, music and beer, with polka entertainment, kids activities, vendors. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri. and Sat., noon-5 p.m. Sun. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St. NW. Free. polishheritagesociety.com.

Aug. 26 - Burning Foot Craft Beer Festival: Third annual celebration with dozens of participating brewpubs and craft breweries, plus music and food. 3-9 p.m. Pere Marquette Beach, Muskegon. $60 adults, $25 designated driver. burningfoot.beer.

Aug. 26 - Local First Lakeshore Street Party: Fourth annual celebration of West Michigan music, food and beer with family-friendly activities and entertainment. 3-9 p.m. Washington Square, on Washington Avenue between W. 18th and W. 19th streets, Holland. Free. localfirst.com.

Aug. 26 - Made in Michigan Pop-Up Marketplace: Downtown Market hosts outdoor market with artisan gifts, local treats, goodies. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. madeinmipopup.com.

Aug. 26 - Vintage Boat Show: Thirty boats and travel trailers on display, plus kids activities, paper paddle boat races and ice cream.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Kollen Park, 240 Kollen Park Drive, Holland. Free. downtownholland.com.

Aug. 27 - Allegan Antiques Market: Monthly market features 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.

Aug. 27 - Savor the Art Coast: Thirtieth annual street festival of fine foods, sponsored by Saugatuck-Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau and area restaurants. Noon-6 p.m. Downtown Saugatuck. Free admission; food “tastes” $1-$5. saugatuck.com.

Aug. 31-Sept. 4 - Michigan State Fair: Midway, equestrian pavilion, livestock, entertainment, farmers market, arts and crafts, circus, kids activities and more. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Thu.-Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon. Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi. $8 adults, $6 kids 2-11. michigan statefairllc.com.

SPORTS Aug. - West Michigan Whitecaps: Profess-

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liner notes

BY NICOLE LARAE

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CARI NIEWIEK (TOP); ANNA SINK (RIGHT)

Celebration of cycling FOR A FEW CONSECUTIVE YEARS, The Spoke Folks, a Grand Rapids-based nonprofit, held a bike carnival and fundraiser event, dubbed Crank, each spring, followed

by Music For Miles in the fall — both with the intention of raising awareness about cycling in Grand Rapids and bringing attention everything The Spoke Folks has to offer.

With the same mission in mind, the two events will come together for the first time this year as the Beer City Bike Fest, which is slated for Aug. 26.

“Both (original) events were fun and successful in their own way, but we struggled with attendance,” explained Carolyn VandenBerg, Spoke Folks board member and this year’s festival director. “We decided to combine the best elements of both events into something new and more concise: a free, family-friendly event that starts with races, games and kids activities, then eventually shifts gears to live music in the evening.” This year’s lineup solely includes local musicians and bands, featuring Cabildo, Lady Ace Boogie, Les Créatif, Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, The Hoplites, Bike Tuff and Hannah Laine.

The Spoke Folks — which offers resources and assistance with bike repair to help people get the most out of their bike, as well as used bicycle sales — began modestly in July 2012 after “a few meetings with area cyclists committed to making sure everyone could enjoy the benefits of cycling,” recalled Jay Niewiek, the executive director of The Spoke Folks. “These same cyclists were our first volunteers and were the lifeblood that allowed our meager $6,000 startup fund to get us going. Quickly, we went from being a volunteer-run organization open on Tuesday evenings and Saturday afternoons to it becoming my full-time job.”

As an effort to continue fostering this growth, the organizers behind Beer City Bike Fest have their sights set on two primary objectives: raising funds and raising awareness. “The hope is that, eventually, Beer City Bike Fest will be a dependable source of revenue for The Spoke Folks,

BEER CITY BIKE FEST FAQ: > When: Saturday, Aug. 26 > Where: The Spoke Folks Bike Shop, 221 Logan St. SW

> Who: You, The Spoke Folks, Cabildo, Lady Ace Boogie, Les Créatif, Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, The Hoplites, Bike Tuff and Hannah Laine > Why: Fundraising for The Spoke Folks and raising awareness for our city’s cycling community

Lend a helping hand as well as a vibrant celebration of bicycle ridership for our whole city,” VandenBerg said.

“Grand Rapids is ripe for bicycle outreach and bicycle advocacy,” added Chris Jensen, a member of The Spoke Folks’ board and events committee. “Recent studies have highlighted the social disparities that we see every day — disparities that can be bridged, at least in part, through affordable access to quality bicycles and bike services.”

— Nicole LaRae is the booking & venue manager for The Pyramid Scheme, owner of dizzybird records, and a volunteer programmer at WYCE 88.1FM.

Interested in helping? Getting involved with The Spoke Folks is easy.

“Just show up! Come volunteer at the shop, volunteer for one of our outreach or fundraising projects, or just clear out your garage of that old Trek you don’t ride anymore,” said Chris Jensen, a member of The Spoke Folks’ board and events committee. “One of the most important things people can do is simply think of us when meeting someone that could use a safe, sound bicycle to improve their life.”

The organization also appreciates donations, Jensen added.

Visit thespokefolks.org for more information.

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Aug. 2 1/ Pop-rock singersongwriter Andrew McMahon will perform at 20 Monroe Live.

Grand Woods Lounge: Restaurant/bar with dance floor hosts DJs and live music Fri.-Sat. 77 Grandville Ave. SW, 451-4300, grandwoods lounge.com.

The Intersection: Four-bar concert venue hosts nationally known bands. 133 Grandville Ave. SW, 4518232, sectionlive.com.

J. Gardellas Tavern: Dance club Fri. and Sat. nights on third floor with DJs. 11 Ionia Ave. SW, 459-8824, jgardellastavern.com.

The Landing Lounge: Live bands perform Sat. and Midwest comics perform Sunday Night Funnies. Riverfront Hotel, 270 Ann St. NW, 3639001, riverfronthotelgr.com/entertain ment/the-landing-lounge.

Mixology: Lobby lounge overlooking downtown GR and Grand River has live music Fri. and Sat. nights, and live jazz brunch on Sun. JW Marriott, 235 Louis St. NW, 242-1500, ilovethejw.com/dining/mixology.

Mojo’s: DJs and dance floor on second level Wed., Fri. and Sat., with dueling pianos show on main floor Wed.-Sat. nights. 180 Monroe Ave. NW, 776-9000, mojospianobar.com.

COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST

1/ 20 MONROE LIVE: 2,500-seat venue hosts live music, entertainment and special events. Pop-rock singer-songwriter Andrew McMahon performs at 7 p.m. Aug. 2. All ages welcome. Tickets are $25-$105. 11 Ottawa Ave. NW, (844) 678-5483, 20monroelive.com.

2/ THE PYRAMID SCHEME: Heartside pub and live music venue. Punk rock band The Coathangers perform at 7 p.m. Aug. 1. All ages welcome.

Tickets are $12. 68 Commerce Ave. SW, pyramidschemebar.com.

3/ DR. GRINS COMEDY CLUB: Comedian Ahmed Bharoocha performs Aug. 10-12. Tickets are $5 Thu. and $10 Fri.-Sat. Also this month: Aug. 3-5, Michael Palascak. Aug. 17-19, Keith Alberstadt. Aug. 24-26, Roy Wood Jr. Aug. 31-Sept. 2, AJ Finney. The B.O.B., 2/ Punk rock band The Coathangers 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 356-2000, thebob.com/ drgrinscomedy.

Mulligan’s Pub: Bar and music venue in Eastown. No cover charge.

1518 Wealthy St. SE, 451-0775, face book.com/mulliganspubgr.

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

One Trick Pony: Live music 8-11 p.m. Thu. and Sat. Reservations accepted. 136 E. Fulton St., 235-7669, onetrick.biz.

The B.O.B.: The Big Old Building houses multiple entertainment options: dueling pianos at Bobarino’s Wed.-Sat.; DJs and dance floor at Eve on weekends; live music at House of Music and Entertainment (H.O.M.E.); stand-up comedy at Dr. Grins. 20 Monroe Ave. NW, 3562000, thebob.com.

The Orbit Room: Regional and national music acts, occasional standup comedy. Open floor, seated balcony. 2525 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, 942-1328, orbitroom.com.

Founders Brewing Co.: Large taproom features live music Thu. and Sat., plus Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra on the first Sun. of each month.

235 Grandville Ave. SW, 776-2182, foundersbrewing.com.

Grand Rapids Brewing Co.: Restaurant/taproom features live music Fri.-Sun. No cover charge. 1 Ionia Ave. SW, 458-7000, grbrewingcom pany.com.

Pop Scholars: Four-person comedy improv team performs monthly Sept.-May at 8 p.m. $10. Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE, 5494788 ext. 130, popscholars.com.

River City Improv: Comedy improv team performs at 7:33 p.m. on Aug. 19. $12 adults, $5 students and kids. Calvin College Gezon Auditorium, 3201 Burton St. SE, rivercity improv.com.

Rocky’s Bar & Grill: Dancing every Fri., featuring DJs and live acts.

633 Ottawa Ave. NW, 356-2346, facebook.com/rockysbarandgrill.

Stella’s Lounge: Drink features and live DJs every Fri. and Sat. 53 Commerce Ave. SW, 742-4444, stel lasgr.com.

3/ Comedian Ahmed Bharoocha performs Aug. 10-12.

Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill: Live music acts and DJs, plus Comedy Tuesdays. 760 Butterworth St. SW, 272-3910, Facebook.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BRENDAN WALTER (TOP); JASON TRAVIS (LEFT); NEON-ENTERTAINMENT (BOTTOM)

Comedy & nightclub venues

Back Forty Saloon: Line dancing and live country bands Sat. DJs Thu.-Fri. 48 W. Fulton St., 742-4040, thebackfortysaloon.com.

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ional minor league baseball team is a member of the Midwest League and Class-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. Home games: Aug. 1 vs. Lake County Captains. Aug. 10-13 vs. Great Lakes Loons. Aug. 22-24 vs. South Bend Cubs. Aug. 25-28 vs. Bowling Green Hot Rods. Fifth Third Ballpark, 4500 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. $7-$15. whitecaps baseball.com.

Aug. 3-6 - State Games of America: Olympic-style competition of amateur athletes from Michigan includes 40 sports in multiple venues. Opening ceremonies 7:30 p.m. Fri., Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. stategamesofmichigan.com.

Aug. 4-5 - MilTri: Sprint and Olympic distances for adults (7:30 a.m. Sat.), plus races for kids ages 7-14 (6 p.m. Fri.). Millennium Park, 1415 Maynard Ave. SW. $80-$95 adults, $40 kids. miltri.com.

Aug. 11-12 - The Fred Running Relays: The Fred 200-mile relay from Belmont to Cadillac in 36 relay increments along the White Pine Trail, plus The Ed 100-mile relay and the Lena 50-mile relay. 6:30 a.m. 3924 West River Drive NE, Comstock Park. fredmeijerwhite pinetrail200.com.

Aug. 12 - Hey 5K Run/Walk: Seventh annual run thru downtown Muskegon benefits Muskegon Community Radio 88.9 FM. 8 a.m.

Union Depot, 610 W. Western Ave. $20-$30. heyradio.com/hey5k.

Aug. 12-13 - Rockford Ninja Warrior: Live pro competition. 5 p.m. Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. DeltaPlex, 2500 Turner Ave. NW. $5-$30. deltaplex.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BRENDAN WALTER (TOP); JASON TRAVIS (LEFT); NEON-ENTERTAINMENT (BOTTOM)

Aug. 17 - Kids Adventure Challenge: Twohour race with challenges and checkpoints for ages 5-12. 6 p.m. Johnson Park, 2600 Wilson Ave. SW. $15. gazellesports.com.

Aug. 19 - Mitchell’s Run Thru Rockford: Nineteenth annual 5K run/walk and kids run raises money for Duchenne muscular dystrophy research. Also, family picnic, music, silent auction and more. 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. kids run. $25, $15 kids. 19 N. Main St., Rockford. mitchellsrun.org.

Aug. 20 - Gaslight Criterium: Tenth annual circuit bicycle race in EGR’s Gaslight Village.

Start and finish lines at Wealthy Street and Bagley Avenue, East Grand Rapids. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. facebook.com/tourdegaslight.

Aug. 20 - Michigan Titanium: Full, half and Olympic triathlons, relays, aquabikes and duathlons. 7 a.m. Versluis Park, 3277 West River Drive, Plainfield. mititanium.com.

Aug. 20 - Skirts in the Dirt: Fourth annual

women-only mountain bike race and trail runs. 8:30 a.m. Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Road NE, Belmont. $30-$40. skirtsinthedirt.com.

Aug. 26 - Eat Dirt Mud Run: 5K course with obstacles, slide and mud. Participants can run solo or in teams. Kids Mini Mud Run for ages 6-12 (2.5K). 8:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. kids.

1200 60th St. SE, Kentwood. $49-$65 adults, $25-$30 kids. grandrapidsmudrun.com.

Aug. 26 - GRidiron Classic: West Michigan Sports Commission presents third annual high school football kickoff showcase featuring four games. 10:30 a.m.; 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Lubbers Stadium, GVSU, 4415 Stadium Drive, Allendale. $10 adults, $8 students. westmisports.com.

STAGE & FILM Thru Aug. 5 - “Hairspray Jr.”: GR Civic Theatre presents a musical about a young girl in the 1960s who wants to dance on a popular TV show. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $10-$16. grct.org.

Thru Aug. 5 - “The Importance of Being Earnest”: Heritage Theatre presents Oscar Wilde’s farcical comedy. 8 p.m. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students. heritagetheatregr.org.

Thru Aug. 6 - “Fully Committed”: Mason Street Warehouse presents the story of a struggling actor working as a reservation clerk at a popular restaurant. 8 p.m., 7 p.m.

Sun., 2 p.m. Aug. 6. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $46 adults, $42 seniors and students. mason streetwarehouse.org.

Thru Aug. 6 - “The Neverending Story”: GR Civic Theatre presents the story of a troubled boy transported to a fantasy land. 7:30 p.m.

Wed.-Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. 30 N. Division Ave. $10-$16. grct.org.

Thru Aug. 10 - “A View From the Bridge”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the story of a longshoreman who agrees to harbor his immigrant cousins. 7:30 p.m.

DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $15$30. hope.edu/hsrt.

Thru Aug. 10 - “Schoolhouse Rock Live!”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre’s Children’s Performance Troupe presents live show based on TV cartoon. 10:30 a.m., 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland. $15. hope.edu/hsrt.

Thru Aug. 11 - “Curious George: The Golden Meatball”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre’s Children’s Performance Troupe presents the adventure of a lovable monkey

and The Man With the Yellow Hat. 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $15. hope.edu/hsrt.

Thru Aug. 11 - “Working: The Musical”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre explores the lives of 26 Americans from all walks of life. 7:30 p.m. Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Eighth St., Holland. $15-$40. hope.edu/hsrt.

Thru Aug. 12 - “Annie: The Musical”: Hope Summer Repertory Theatre presents the story of a red-headed orphan who finds a home.

1:30 and 7:30 p.m. DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. $15-$40. hope.edu/hsrt.

Aug. 4, 18 - Movies in the Park (downtown): Free movies on 50-foot screen. Aug. 4, “Selena” and “The Bodyguard.” Aug. 18, “Remember the Titans” and “Pitch Perfect.” 7 p.m. Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. downtowngr.org.

Aug. 10-19 - “Dracula, The Musical?”: Holland Civic Theatre presents the story of a 19-year-old boy on trial for killing his father.

7 p.m. Thu. and Fri., 2 and 7 p.m. Sat. 50 W. Ninth St., Holland. $10. hollandcivictheatre. org.

Aug. 10-19 - “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead”: Heritage Theatre presents a tragicomedy about two minor characters in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” 8 p.m. Spectrum Theater, 160 Fountain St. NE. $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 students. heritagetheatregr.org.

Aug. 10-26 - “To Kill a Mockingbird”: Circle Theatre presents a play about racial tension in 1930s Alabama. 7:30 p.m., 5 p.m. Aug. 20.

Aquinas College PAC, 1607 Robinson Road SE. $25. circletheatre.org.

Aug. 11 - Movies in the Park (EGR): Free family-friendly movie, “Finding Dory,” starts at dusk. John Collins Park, 650 Lakeside Drive SE. eastgr.org.

Aug. 11-12 - Game Show Extravaganza: Hollywood Squares and Family Feud games with contestants chosen from the audience. 7 p.m. Fri., 2 and 7 p.m. Sat. Master Arts Theatre, 75 77th St. SW. $10. masterarts.org.

Aug. 16 - Open Projector Night: UICA hosts short film screenings followed by Q&A with filmmakers. 8 p.m. 2 W. Fulton St. $8, $4 members. uica.org.

Aug. 17 - Standale Movie in the Park: “Sing.” 8 p.m. Walker Community Park, 700 Cummings Ave. NW. ci.walker.mi.us/busi ness/dda.

Aug. 18-19 - “John, His Story”: Master Arts Theatre depicts seven of Jesus’ miracles based on accounts from the “Book of John.”

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7 p.m. Fri., 2 and 7 p.m. Sat. 75 77th St. SW. $10. masterarts.org.

Aug. 18-Sept. 3 - “It Shoulda Been You”: Mason Street Warehouse presents a wedding day musical where everything goes wrong. 8 p.m., 7 p.m. Sun. 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. $46 adults, $42 seniors and students. mason streetwarehouse.org.

Aug. 24 - Trailer Park Boys: Live show based on mockumentary TV show about misadventures of trailer park residents. 7:30 p.m. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW. $29.50-$64.50. devosperformancehall.com.

Aug. 25 - Kentwood Summer Movie: Free movie at dusk on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Road SE. yourkprd.org.

Aug. 25-Sept. 7 - “Whose Streets?”: UICA presents a documentary about the uprising in Ferguson, Missouri, after teenager Michael Brown was killed by police. See website for showtimes. 2 W. Fulton St. $8, $4 members. uica.org.

MUSIC Aug. - Grand Haven/Spring Lake Concerts: Free concerts by local musicians. Thru Aug. 22: Tuesdays in the Park, Central Park, Grand Haven. Thru Aug. 31: Music at the Point (Thu.), Mill Point Park, Spring Lake. 7-8:30 p.m. visit grandhaven.com.

Aug. - Holland Summer Concerts: Live music 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Fri. thru Aug. 25. Kollen Park, 240 Kollen Park Drive. Free. downtownholland.com.

Aug. - Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts: Free concerts 7 p.m. every Thu. Aug. 3, The Ragbirds. Aug. 17, Olivia Mainville & the Aquatic Troupe. Aug. 24, The Hip Pocket. Riverwalk Plaza along Flat River, downtown Lowell. lowellartsmi.org.

Aug. - Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts: National acts perform in outdoor amphitheater. Aug. 2, Lyle Lovett and His Large Band. Aug. 9, Garrison Keillor’s Prairie Home “Love and Comedy” Tour. Aug. 11, Lake Street Dive. Aug. 13, American Acoustic with Punch Brothers and I’m With Her. Aug. 14, Gov’t Mule. Aug. 16, Michael Franti and Spearhead.

Aug. 17, Tegan and Sara. Aug. 18, Jethro Tull

by Ian Anderson. Aug. 20, John Butler Trio.

Aug. 21, moe. and Railroad Earth. Aug. 24, Five for Fighting with String Quartet. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. meijergardens.org.

Aug. - Music in the Park: Family-friendly music in Saugatuck 7-9 p.m. every Wed. thru Aug. 30. Wicks Park Gazebo, Water Street. saugatuck.com.

Aug. - Rogue River Blues: Rockford’s Tue. evening concerts showcase jazz, blues and folk. 7-9 p.m. Aug. 1, The Crane Wives. Aug. 8, The Soul Syndicate. Aug. 15, Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish. Garden Club Park along Rogue River. Free. rockfordmichamber.com.

Aug. - Tuesday Evening Music Club: Local and regional musicians perform at Meijer Gardens outdoor amphitheater. Aug. 1, The Moonrays and 6 Pak. Aug. 8, Benjaman James and Michigander. Aug. 15, Bigfoot Buffalo and Slim Gypsy Baggage. Aug. 22, Amy Andrews and Taylor Taylor. Aug. 29, Ralston and Friends. 7 p.m. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE. Free with admission. meijergardens.org.

Aug. - WLAV Summertime Blues: Free outdoor music concerts Wed. at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 2, Scotty Bratcher. Aug. 9, Jake Kershaw. Aug. 16, Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials. DeltaPlex parking lot, 2500 Turner Ave. NW. wlav.com.

Thru Aug. 11 - Chamber Music Festival of Saugatuck: Music by area musicians every Thu. and Fri. night. 7:30 p.m. Saugatuck Women’s Club, 303 Butler St. $20 adults, $5 students, $100 season. saugatuckmusic.org.

Aug. 1 - Family Carillon Series: Outdoor carillon concert at noon with Julianne Vanden Wyngaard. GVSU Pew Campus, 401 W. Fulton St. gvsu.edu/music.

Aug. 1 - Retro Futura: Hot 80’s Rewind: Concert includes Howard Jones, English Beat, Men Without Hats, Modern English, Paul Young and Katrina; benefits Metro Health University of Michigan Health Foundation. 7 p.m. Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St. $45$75. vanandelarena.com.

Aug. 1 - Soundz of Summer Concert Series: Free concert with Main Street Dueling Pianos.

6:30 p.m. Lawrence Park, 100 W. Lawrence Ave., Zeeland. ci.zeeland.mi.us.

Aug. 1, 8 - Jenison Music in the Park: Free music concerts. Aug. 1, Jamestown Drifters.

Aug. 8, Freehand. 5-8 p.m. Rosewood Park, 1899 Rosewood St., Jenison. grandvillecham ber.chambermaster.com/events.

Aug. 1, 8 - Wyoming Concerts in the Park: Free concerts, kids activities and food. Aug. 1, Union Guns. Aug. 8, David Dunn. 7-8:30 p.m.

Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. wyomingcec. org.

Aug. 5, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan. 8 p.m.

Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Road NE, Belmont. $19-$24 adults, $16-$22 seniors and students, $5 kids 2-18, under 2 free. grsymphony.org.

Aug. 3, 10 - GRAM on the Green: Outdoor music concerts with dancing, food trucks and cash bar. Aug. 3, The Accidentals. Aug. 10, Walter White. 6-9 p.m. Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center St. NW. artmus eumgr.org.

Aug. 7, 14 - Jazz in the Park: Free jazz concerts. Aug. 7, Mary Rademacher Reed & The Fred Knapp Quartet. Aug. 14, Robin Connell.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. wmichjazz.org.

Aug. 9-12 - Unity Christian Music Festival: Multiple stages, youth events and kids activities. Main stage artists include TobyMac, Casting Crowns, Good Little Giants and more.

Heritage Landing, Muskegon. Wed. free; one-, two- and three-day passes $35-$75. unity musicfestival.com.

Aug. 10 - Standale Summer Concert Series: Free family-friendly entertainment by 6 Pak. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Walker Community Park, 700 Cummings Ave. NW. ci.walker.mi.us/busi ness/dda.

Aug. 10-12 - Cowpie Music Festival: Eclectic live regional bands, food, beverages and crafts. Camping available. Shagbark Farm, 7500 Alaska Ave. SE, Caledonia. $80 Thu., $70 Fri., $60 Sat. cowpiemusicfestival.com.

Aug. 12 - Holland Symphony Orchestra: Free community Pops Concert includes light classics and favorites. 7:30 p.m. Kollen Park, 240 Kollen Park Drive, Holland. hollandsym phony.org.

Aug. 14-15, 21 - Circle Theatre Summer Concert Series: Aug. 14-15, Go Your Own Way: The Music of Fleetwood Mac. Aug. 21, Uptown Funk: The Best of the Funkiest. 7 p.m. 1607 Robinson Road SE. $18. circlethe atre.org.

Aug. 17 - Cherry Street Music Series: Free music concert, featuring Vox Vidorra. 6:308:30 p.m. Garden at ICCF headquarters, 920 Cherry St. SE. iccf.org.

Aug. 3 - Kentwood Summer Concert Series: Free concert with May Erlewine. 7-8:30 p.m.

Kentwood City Hall Lawn, 4900 Breton Road SE. yourkprd.org.

Aug. 18-19 - HARPfest: Franciscan Life Process Center presents harpist Angi Bemiss hosting two-day workshop and concert. See website for workshop prices. Concert 7:30 p.m. Fri.: $15-$20. 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. lifeprocesscenter.org.

Aug. 3, 5 - Picnic Pops: GR Symphony presents family-friendly concerts with picnics permitted. Aug. 3, Classical Fireworks.

Aug. 19-20 - GRandJazzFest: Sixth annual free jazz festival featuring local and national musicians with headliner Richard Elliot

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(Sat.). Noon-10 p.m. Sat., 1-9 p.m. Sun. Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St. NW. grandjazzfest.org.

Aug. 24-27 - Shoreline Jazz Festival: Fourth annual festival features Alexander Zonjic & Friends. Free Friday concert 5-9 p.m. in Hackley Park, 350 W. Western Ave., Muskegon. 1-9 p.m. Sat.-Sun. at Heritage Landing, Muskegon. $35-$60, two-day pass $70-$120. shorelinejazzfestival.com.

Aug. 25-26 - Breakaway Music Festival: Fifteen local and national musicians on two stages with headliners Travis Scott, Zedd and Jon Bellion, plus food trucks and vendors.

Belknap Park, 30 Coldbrook St. NE. $80 twoday pass, $140 VIP. breakawaymusicfestival. com.

LECTURES & WORKSHOPS Aug. - Downtown Market Cooking Classes: Aug. 9, Big City Sushi. Aug. 14 and 17, Spanish Paella Party. Aug. 25, Cooking for Two. 435 Ionia Ave. SW. downtownmarketgr.com.

www.appletreekids.cc | www.gildenwoods.com

Aug. - FLPC Art Workshops: Aug. 3-5, “Painting the Emotional Landscape” by David Sharpe. Aug. 14-17, “Figure Drawing and Figure Painting” by Henry Yan. Franciscan Life Process Center, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell. lifeprocesscenter.org.

Aug. - Summer Swing Dancing: Every Tue., 7-9:30 p.m. at various outdoor downtown locations. First half-hour is instruction. Aug. 1 and 15, Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St. NW. Aug. 8, 22 and 29, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave. NW. grandrapidsorigi nalswingsociety.com.

Aug. 4 - First Friday Contra Dance: Grand River Folk Arts Society hosts instruction and dancing. 7 p.m. 701 Fifth St. NW. $10 adults, $8 members, $5 students and seniors. sites. google.com/site/grfolkarts.

Aug. 10 - MMA Lecture: Muskegon Museum of Art presents “Standing Rock: A Report from the Field” by Levi Rickert. 5:30 p.m. reception, 7 p.m. lecture. 296 W. Webster Ave. muskegon artmuseum.org.

Aug. 12 - Slow Stitch Class: Monthly hand sewing with Kathleen Mooney. 2-3 p.m. Flat River Cottage, 317 E. Main St., Lowell. $10. flatrivercottage.com.

Aug. 25 - Phil Robertson: “A Legacy of Faith”: Reality TV star from “Duck Dynasty” and professional hunter. 7-9 p.m. ResLife Church, 5100 Ivanrest Ave. SW, Grandville. $30-$75. reslife.org/events/phil-robertson.

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Blandford Nature Center: Special events: Aug. 12, Medicinal Plant Workshop. Aug. 25, Bands at Blandford. Permanent attractions: 143 acres of trails, heritage buildings, farm. Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center open Mon.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. $3. 1715 Hillburn Ave. NW, 735-6240, blandfordnaturecenter.org.

Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park: Eighty-acre park with reptile house, primate facility, bird aviary, prairie dog exhibit, giraffes, zebras, antelope, wildebeest, bison, cattle, ostrich and emus. Plus, safari rides and opportunities to feed giraffes, goats, rabbits and budgies. Open daily. $12 adults, $9 seniors and kids 3-11, kids under 2 free. 8313 Pratt Lake Ave. SE, Alto, 868-6711, boulderridgewap.com.

“New Mexico Desert”

by Kay WalkingStick.

Museums & attractions COMPILED BY TRICIA VAN ZELST

1/ KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS: Special exhibitions: Thru Sept. 10, “Kay WalkingStick: An American Artist” includes abstract paintings, landscapes, drawings, sculpture and diptychs by the Native American artist. The exhibit is organized by the American Federation of Arts and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. Thru Oct. 22, “Our People, Our Land, Our Images.” Closed Mon. $5 adults, $2 students with ID; members and kids 12 and under free. 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo, (269) 349-7775, kiarts.org.

2/ “Sisters on the Shore”

by William Adolphe Bouguereau is at the GRAM until Aug. 27.

2/ GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM: Special exhibitions: Thru Aug. 27, “Off-Shore and on the Beach” juxtaposes two seaside scenes by French painters Edouard Manet and William Adolphe Bouguereau, as well as other paintings and works from GRAM’s collection with a shore-side theme. Also thru Aug. 27, “The Art of Rube Goldberg” and “Black Waves: The Tattoo Art of Leo Zulueta.” Special events: See GRAM on the Green in Music.

Permanent exhibitions: 19th- and 20th-century art, design and modern craft, prints, drawings, photographs. Drop-in Family Saturdays: Art activities, kid-friendly tours, 1-4 p.m. Closed Mon. $8 adults, $7 seniors/students, $5 kids 6-17, kids 5 and under free; free admission Tue. and 5-9 p.m. Thu. 101 Monroe Center St. NW, 831-1000, artmuseumgr.org.

Coopersville & Marne Railway: Restored 1920s-era railway with EnterTRAINment Excursions 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Wed. and Sat. (except Aug. 12). $13 adults, $12 seniors, $11 kids 2-12. 311 Danforth St., Coopersville, 997-7000, coopersville andmarne.org.

Coopersville Farm Museum: Special exhibits: Aug. 1-Sept. 30, “Quilts and Their Stories.” Special events: Aug. 1 and 15, Acoustic Jam Night. Aug. 7-12, Tractor Show. Aug. 12, Summerfest Saturday.

Aug. 26, Kids, Crafts & Critters. Permanent attractions: Tractors and other farming equipment, Eclipse windmill. Open Tue., Thu., Sat. $4 adults, $2 kids 4-12, kids 3 and under free. 375 Main St., Coopersville, 997-8555, coopersvillefarmmuseum.org.

DeGraaf Nature Center: Special events: Aug. 5, Kayak the Rogue River. Aug. 26, An Evening for the Bats. Permanent attractions: Eighteen-acre preserve with Interpretive Center, indoor pond, animals, SkyWatch. Knee-High Naturalist classes for kids 3-5. Center open Tue.-Sat. Trails open daily dawn to dusk. Free. 600 Graafschap Road, Holland, 355-1057, cityofholland.com/degraafnaturecenter.

Downtown Market: Market hall, open daily year-round, features culinary-related products at more than 20 local businesses, plus several restaurants. For cooking classes, see Lectures & Workshops. Special events: Aug. 2, Food Trucks with a Twist. Aug. 16, Music at the Market. Aug. 19, Cars & Coffee. Also, see Vintage Street Market and Made in Michigan Pop-Up Marketplace in Special Events.

435 Ionia Ave. SW, 805-5308, downtownmarketgr. com.

Felt Mansion & Gardens: Summer home of millionaire inventor Dorr E. Felt features 1920s architecture. Self-guided tours 1-5 p.m. Sun.-Wed. $15 adults, $12 seniors and students, kids 12 and under free. 6597 138th St., Holland, 335-3050, feltman sion.org.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: Special exhibitions: Thru Aug. 20, “Ai Weiwei at Meijer Gardens: Natural State.” Special events: Aug. 12-13, Meet Me at the Fair. Aug. 26-27, Dahlia Show. See Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts in Music. Permanent attractions: Modern and contemporary sculpture collection, Japanese garden, tropical conservatory, children’s garden, nature trails and boardwalk, café, gift shop. Open daily. $14.50 adults, $11 seniors and students, $7 kids 5-13, $4 kids 3-4. 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, 957-1580, meijer gardens.org.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Aug. 11, “Amending America: The Bill of Rights.” Permanent exhibitions: “Gerald Ford’s America,” “Young Jerry Ford,” “Navy Room,” “Congressional Work,” “At Work in the Oval Office,” “Leadership in Diplomacy,” “State Dining,” “Cabinet Room.” Also, DeVos Learning Center.

Open daily. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $6 college stu-

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY AMERICAN FEDERATION OF ARTS (TOP); GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM (BOTTOM)

1/ KIA’s exhibit features

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dents, $4 ages 6-18, kids 5 and under free. 303 Pearl St. NW, 254-0400, fordlibrarymuseum.gov.

Blooming Freshness

Gilmore Car Museum: Special events: Aug. 5, Red Barns Spectacular Car Show and Swap Meet.

Aug. 10, 26 and 31, Model T Driving School. Aug. 12-13, Lincoln Motor Car Heritage Museum Meet.

Aug. 19, Relix Riot: Traditional Hot Rods & Customs.

Aug. 27, Pierce-Arrow Society Gathering. Aug. 30, Outdoor Movie Night. Permanent exhibitions: Ninety-acre campus with more than 300 vehicles on display. Open daily. $12 adults, $9 age 7-17, kids 6 and under free. 6865 W. Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, (269) 671-5089, gilmorecarmuseum.org.

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: Permanent activities: Little GR, Bubbles!, Wee Discover, musical instruments and more. Toddler Tuesdays 10 a.m.-noon. Family Night 5-8 p.m. Thu. ($1.75).

Closed Mon. $8.50, $7.50 seniors, kids under 1 free.

11 Sheldon Ave. NE, 235-4726, grcm.org.

Andrea Crossman Group

Grand Rapids Public Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Sept. 3, “Mindbender Mansion.”

Special events: Aug. 21, Eclipse Party.

C OSee L L E C TMini ION Maker Faire in Special Events. Science Tuesdays feature themed activities and interactive displays.

C O L L E C T I O N Permanent exhibitions: “Grand Fish, Grand River”; “Streets of Old Grand Rapids”; “Anishinabek and Newcomers: People of This Place”; “Collecting A-Z”; “Furniture City”; 1928 carousel ($1). Open daily. $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 kids 3-17. 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm.org.

Holland Museum: Special exhibitions: Thru Sept. 30, “For the Future Peace: WWII” and “Holland on the Homefront.” Permanent exhibitions: 17thto 20th-century paintings, attractions from the “Old Country,” local history. Open Wed.-Sun. $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, kids 5 and under free. 31 W. 10th St., 796-3329, hollandmuseum.org. Also, Cappon House: 228 W. Ninth St. Settlers House: 190 W. Ninth St.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY AMERICAN FEDERATION OF ARTS (TOP); GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM (BOTTOM)

John Ball Zoo: More than 2,000 animals, including tigers, grizzly bears, chimps and monkeys, plus aquarium, petting zoo and gift shop. Summer activities include zipline, ropes course, camel rides, budgie aviary and funicular. Special events: Daily: Realm of Flight bird show. Open daily. $10 adults, $8 seniors and kids 2-12, kids under 2 free. 1300 W. Fulton St., 336-4300, jbzoo.org.

Meyer May House: Restored Frank Lloyd Wright 1909 prairie-style house includes original furnishings. Open for guided tours 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Tue. and Thu.; 1-4 p.m. Sun. Free. 450 Madison Ave. SE, 2464821, meyermayhouse.steelcase.com.

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Muskegon Museum of Art: Special exhibitions: Thru Sept. 10, “Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian.” Thru Oct. 8, “Pictures of the Best Kind.” Special events: See “MMA Lecture” in Lectures & Workshops. Aug. 12, Native Storytelling Super Saturday. Aug. 24, Film “Coming to Light: Edward S. Curtis and the North American Indians.”

Closed Mon. $10 adults, $5 college students, kids 17 and under free. 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, (231) 720-2570, muskegonartmuseum.org.

Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium: Shows use Digistar projection and surround sound. $4 with admission to museum, $5 planetarium shows only.

Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW, 456-3977, grpm. org/planetarium.

OCTOBER 6-21

Veen Observatory: Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association hosts public viewing on Aug. 12 and 26 from 9-11:30 p.m. Featured objects include Saturn, Perseid Meteors, the Crescent Moon, star clusters and nebulas. For weather updates, call 897-7065. $3 adults, $2 kids 5-17. 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. SE, Lowell, graaa.org.

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out & about SOCIETY / FACES / PLACES

Keni Jo and Brian Hudenko

Jules Aquino, Tim Kelly and Corey Kelly

Spencer and Bekah McKellar Michael Brown and Michelle Lawrence Lori Steffes and Mark Fisher

Brad and Joyce Twiss, Susie Kluting and Bremen Twiss

CAPTURING THE ACTION AROUND TOWN:

snap shots

Nick and Lauren Thompson and Katie and Nate Golomb

Brian Gary, Mark Anthony, Linda Gary, Suzi Anthony

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (TOP); JOHNNY QUIRIN (BOTTOM)

THE CITY OF KENTWOOD celebrated its 50th anniversary May 19 with its cowboythemed Vibe Gala. Proceeds benefit Kentwood Parks & Recreation Department programs.

Mid-Life Crisis, a Grand Rapids-based classic rock band, released its latest album, “It’s About Time,” with a benefit party for the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation at 20 Monroe Live on June 3.

John Ball Zoo hosted its annual RendeZoo fundraising event June 9, featuring entertainment, appetizers, cocktails and “special animal encounters.” Proceeds were dedicated to implementing projects outlined in the zoo’s Master Facilities Plan.

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Marguerite Teliczan and Amy Matthews

Jacquie and Austin Brown and Mike and Jennifer Patterson Matt and Kate Wezeman

Jamie Miller and Kris Gutterson Mid-Life Crisis performing

Angela Kaku and Adam Kotarski

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (TOP); JOHNNY QUIRIN (BOTTOM)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK (TOP); JOHNNY QUIRIN (BOTTOM)

Noelle Ellis and Joanne Nicola

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after thoughts

Q:a

Best of both worlds: Glen E. Swanson balances his passion for space with his love of GR.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BUCK

A

fter graduating from Western Michigan University in 1987, Glen E. Swanson headed to the University of North Dakota, where he earned a master’s degree in space studies in 1998. He then went on to work as a historian for NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston until 2002 before returning home to Grand Rapids in 2004, where he currently resides with his wife and 9-year-old son, Luke.

Swanson also founded CSPACE Press, an aerospace publishing firm based in Grand Rapids, as well as “QUEST: The History of Spaceflight Quarterly.”

Swanson, 54, taught physics at Grand Valley State University for about a decade, but recently decided to focus his attention on earning his Ph.D. in the history of science and technology.

WHAT DID YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT GROWING UP IN GRAND RAPIDS? The seasons (all except winter) and the wonderful greenery. Less traffic and plenty of wonderful trees.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST BECOME INTERESTED IN STUDYING SPACE? I remember watching Neil Armstrong walk on the moon when I was 6. I have been captivated by spaceflight ever since.

WHAT PERSON WOULD YOU LOVE TO MEET? Jesus… and not just for a day, but to hang out with him and his followers for a while just to see what he was really like.

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? As you grow older on the outside, always remain a third-grader on the inside.

That way, you will always be happy.

FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME? “Star Wars” (the original ’77 release, as there is no other).

WHO INSPIRES YOU? My dad. He was a third-grade teacher for nearly 30 years and always told me that being in the third grade was the best year in his whole life. He loved being a kid, and that’s why he went into elementary school teaching. Now being a father to a third-grader, I know exactly what he meant.

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637 Leonard NW | Just West of US 131 | Grand Rapids 616.454.4439 | www.nwhomefurnishings.com

BRATI LE

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