Revue, February 2013

Also InsIde: The Jammies

TestamentDon Giovanni

Paula Poundstone

West Michigan’s entertainMent guide for 25 years » february 2013

alWays free!

LoveThe

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

REVUEWM.COM | FEbRUaRy 2013 | 3

4 | REVUEWM.COM | FEbRUaRy 2013





February 2013 | Volume 25, Issue 2What’s InsIde

40 TEsTaMEnT60TasTE This

sCene:13 Random notes16 beer: Grand Rapids brewing Co.18 de Polo’s Free Market20 Eclectic Events

sPeCIaL seCtIOn:23 The Love issue24 so, you’re Engaged26 Facebook status Fashion28 how to Get a Date29 Romantic Dining30 GR Date nights32 Kalamazoo Date nights34 Lakeshore Date nights36 all ages: Family Dates

sOUnds:39 sink’s spins: The Jammies40 On Tour: Testament42 On Tour: Candlebox

sIGhts:45 Visual arts: Gaspard Gallery46 Literary Life: Funny man Ted Fox48 Performing arts: Opera Grand Rapids Presents Don Giovanni 50 Missy black’s style notes52 Comedy: Paula Poundstone54 indie Film55 Movie Previews

dInInG:58 Restaurant Listings60 Taste This

sChedULe:65 Daily Event Listings and best bets

23ThE LOVE issUE

48 DOn GiOVanni

EditorialPublisher Brian Edwards / [email protected] Editor Lindsay Patton-Carson / [email protected]

dEsignCreative director Kim Kibby / [email protected] Kim Kibby, Kristi Kortman, Kellie Zaplitny

Contributing WritErsKyle Austin Audria LarsenMissy Black Allison ParkerJayson Bussa Emma Kat RichardsonBen Darcie Matt Simpson SiegelSteven de Polo John SinkevicsAlexandra Fluegel Josh SpanningaJoe Gasmann Anya ZentmeyerDwayne Hoover Contributing PhotograPhErs Missy Black, Ben Darcie, Steven de Polo

listings [email protected]

rEvuE MinionsBriana Doolan Diana NowakLauren Longo Carly PlankKari Norton Audrey Sochor salEs / 616.608.6170 / [email protected] Rizor / [email protected]

WEb Editor Jayson Bussa

Find us onlinE! Website: revuewm.comtwitter: twitter.com/revuewm Facebook: facebook.com/revuewm

REvuE is published monthly by Revue Holding Company.65 Monroe Center, Ste. 5, Grand Rapids, MI 49503Office: 616.608.6170 / Fax: 616.608.6182

©2013, Revue Holding Company. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part granted only by written permission of the publisher in accordance with our legal statement, fools.

W E s T M i C h i G a n ’ s E n T E RTa i n M E n T G U i D E

alma College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49amway: Ruth’s Chris . . . . . . . . . . 31amway: supper Club . . . . . . . . . . 59arena District: Mardi Gras . . . . . . 51b.O.b.’s brewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19bell’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 73billy’s Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38brewery Vivant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17bud Light/West side beer . . . . . . 76Calvin saO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Cascade Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Celebration! Cinema . . . . . . . . . . 55Central City Taphouse . . . . . . . . . 17DeltaPlex arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69Dog story Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Dr. Grins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

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

holiday bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19hope College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67The intersection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64irish on ionia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Kzoo hit Factory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Kzoo state Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Kzoo Valley Community College . . 72Kb Productions: matchbox 20 . . . 15Keil Lasik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Kissing Rock Kitchens . . . . . . . . . 63Kitten Flower Tattoo . . . . . . . . . . . 74LaughFest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Michigan irish Music Festival . . . 35Miller auditorium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8The Orbit Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Palazzolo’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Porterhouse Productions . . . . . . . 60The Pyramid scheme . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Radix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61River City improv . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74san Chez bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61saugatuck brewing Company . . . 17saugatuck Center for the arts . . . 35schmohz brewing Company . . . . 17schuler books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47seven steps Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67sight Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19soaring Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3st. Cecilia Music Center . . . . . . . 50The Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63University Musical society . . . . . . 28Van andel arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Vitale’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61West Michigan symphony . . . . . . 22Wharton Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Advertising index

W e’re entering probably the most polarized holiday on the calendar: Valentine’s Day. If you’re in a relationship, it’s great. Dinners, flowers, chocolates, wine — it’s pamper and luxury city. If you’re single? Well, if modern cinema has taught us anything,

it’s that you must be chained to the couch until that guy at the coffee shop you’ve been eyeing stands outside your apartment window and serenades you with a guitar. (Because in modern cinema, all baristas know how to play “Iris” on the guitar just in case this exact moment presents itself to them.)

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

Well, as most of us already know, baristas don’t hang outside our windows with guitars because that’s just creepy. If you haven’t come to that realization, sorry I ruined it, but you needed to know.

The key to having a great Valentine’s Day — regardless of your relationship status — is first, stop watching rom coms, then get creative and quirky. West Michigan has a crazy amount of entertainment options for anyone — whether it’s single, taken or complicated.

Go out, try something new, have fun and most importantly, don’t be like me at 21 and expect some rando to show up in the middle of the night and sing your favorite Fall Out Boy song to you. Not like that happened or anything…

Rock on.

Lindsay Patton-Carson, Managing Editor / [email protected]

Letter from the Editor

Our latest Love Issue gives you non-cheesy inspiration for the season of imposed romantification.

See page 23.

on thE CovEr:




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

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

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

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

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

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

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

rAndOm nOtes

Nick Cave Azealia Banks

Wild Belle at Ladies Lit Club Continued on page 14 8


sOUnDs | siGhTs | DininG | sChEDULESCeNe

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

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

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

cians. Bands include Lowdown Brass Band, The Crane Wives, Funktion, The Ragbirds, Delilah Dewylde and The Lost Boys, Billy Strings and Don Julin, G-Snacks and more.

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

Random Notes is compiled by REVUE staff and minions, including Lauren Longo, Kari Norton, Lindsay Patton-Carson, Carly Plank and Audrey Sochor.

For more music, art and entertainment news, “Like” us on Facebook (facebook.com/revuewm) or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/revuewm.

rAndOm nOtes

iMPortant datEs Ad Space Reservation: Feb. 18

Editorial: Feb. 5Delivery: Feb. 26

Comedian Shane Mausse at “Laugh Don’t Leak,” Feb. 2 and 9 at Dr. Grins


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe


gr a n d r a p i d s B rewi n g Co m pany has finally found a home, back where it started: in downtown Grand Rapids. The original

brewery opened in 1893 on the corner of Michigan and Ionia, and found itself defeated by Prohibition in 1920. It wasn’t resurrected until 1993, when its doors re-opened on 28th street near Centerpointe Mall in the midst of West Michigan’s origi-nal microbrewery surge. It lasted eight years, went through three stages of ownership, and eventually closed its doors in late 2011.

“When I heard that GRBC had been sold to [previous owners] the Shelbys, I regretted not having the opportunity to jump on it,” said Mark Sellers, who cur-rently owns GRBC. “For years before, I had wanted to move it downtown if I ever had the chance.”

After the 28th Street building was repossessed by its landlord (Centerpointe Mall), Sellers purchased the equipment, as well as the as-sets, seizing his chance to bring GRBC back to downtown Grand Rapids. He decided on 1 Ionia Avenue, previously occupied by MyBar and an art gallery, right down the street from his first Grand Rapids bar, HopCat.

“I’d been working at HopCat since the place opened, and brewed there for the last two and a half years,” said Brewer Jake Brenner. “I transi-tioned over here in August, and we’ve been working nonstop since.”

Also recruited to the brewing staff was Stu Crittenden, former head brewer for the 28th Street GRBC.

“I originally started brewing at Michigan Brewing Company and transferred to GRBC,” Crittenden said. “I got in touch with Mark, who told me he was going to purchase the system, and we started the project of getting everything settled in here.”

After months of intense internal reno-vation and establishing the brewery, head brewers Brenner and Crittenden began pumping out the first organic microbrew in the region in preparation for the Dec. 5 grand opening.

“We were going absolutely non-stop, we were kegging 20 minutes before the doors opened,” Brenner said. “We knew it was go-ing to be busy, but it was way more than an of us expected.”

The response was massive. Beer lovers flooded the brewpub and devoured the entire stockpile of beer prepared for the open, driving the tap presence for GRBC’s brews down to one or two beers for the first month.

“We had a line of 200 people at open that went down the street past HopCat,” Sellers said. “From the moment we opened, we were at capacity for 14 days. It was amazing.”

After quickly expanding their cellar space by 30 percent in the first three weeks due to demand, GRBC has a much stronger presence on the tap list board.

The taproom is spacious with plenty of natural light, the walls are covered with old GRBC memorabilia, and both sides of the brewpub have their own stunning bar. GRBC also boasts an innovative full menu with something for everyone in your party, and you can even end your dining experi-ence with a Dry Stout Float.

“We didn’t want to mess up any of the historical elements,” Sellers said. “we wanted to bring it back to the old 1918 look, It was fun, but very challenging.”

The only beer that remains from the old establishment is the classic Silver Foam American Lager, tweaked slightly for the new brewery. Other standards include John Ball Brown, Campau’s 90 Dollar Pale (named for the famous $90 purchase of downtown Grand Rapids by Louis Campau), Lucius Lyon Dry Stout, Roselyn Bliss Mango Blonde Ale, Fishladder IPA, and Brewer’s Heritage Hefeweizen. The brewery has also done two collaboration brews with local breweries Pike 51 in Hudsonville and Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids. n

grand raPids brEWing CoMPany1 ionia ave. sE, Grand Rapids grbrewingcompany.com, (616) 458-7000

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

New Hol land Brewing Company has announced active location scouting for a new brewpub in downtown Grand Rapids.

The 4th Annual Traverse City Winter Microbrew & Music Festival is Feb. 9. For more information, see porterhouse-productions.com.

grand rapids brewing CompanybrEWEry sPotlight

/// Beer by Ben Darcie | [email protected]

bEEr oF thE Month

saugatuck brewing Company: neapolitan Milk stout

T his seasonal release from Saugatuck Brewing Company takes dry stout to another level. Strawberry, chocolate

and vanilla additions are finished off with a healthy dose of lactose sugar, giving Neapolitan Milk Stout a very smooth, silky mouth-feel.

This stout pours black with a dark brown head, an aroma full of chocolate, strawberry and soft roast. The body is light and full of dark malt flavors and roast, with a prominent strawberry and chocolate presence while the vanilla stays in the overtones. Perfect for a cold Michigan day.

PhOTOs: bEn DaRCiE


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe

FRIDAY,FEBRUARY 15TH 6:30PM $35 TICKETS

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

This special evening will feature fi ve elegant courses paired with fi ve

special SBC beers. Go to sbrewing.com for full menu

including vegetarian option!

Crafts &CoursesLAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH7:00PM $10 TICKETS

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

SBC will be hosting a series of tasting events designed to

further educate and develop the palate of you,

the craft beer lover.

ALL ABOUT HOPS!Feb. 28

WORLD BEER STYLESMar. 28

THE FLAVORS OF BEER WITH FOOD Apr. 25

SAUGATUCK BREWING COMPANY PRESENTS

BEER SCHOOL 101

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

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



A cooking school at an appliance store? Yes, because Bekins is more than an ap-pliance store. With stores in Grand

Haven and Grand Rapids, this high-end electronics integrator offers high-end entertainment and kitchen gear that must be seen and used to be believed. Helping customers master the art of cooking and get more out of their fancy kitchen appliances through informative cooking classes makes sense. Led by Bekins Corporate Chef Tom Reinhart, the Bekins Cooking School has quickly become West Michigan’s premier rec-reational cooking school. The classes offer practical cooking advice that can be applied in your home kitchen using techniques applicable to any skill level. Chef Tom offers classes in the Grand Haven showroom (735 Washington Ave.), while Sue Chef is the resident chef instructor for the Grand Rapids showroom (6275 28th St. SE). You may recognize Sue from her weekly PBS cooking show, “Get Fresh with Sue Chef,” or her cookbook of the same title. Look for classes like the Tender Foodie and Vegan Cuisine for the omnivore.

Two new yoga studios have opened in Grand Rapids to help you cope with your holiday hot messiness. Yoga HEAT (820 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite 104) opened downtown, targeting professionals and students. Anyone is welcome at Yoga HEAT, but the studio’s mission is in its full name: Yoga Helps Every Athlete Thrive. Located close to the running/bike path along the river, Yoga HEAT offers Power Vinyasa in a room heated from 80 to 85 degrees, as well as a weekly yin class to help keep joints healthy. Owner Elizabeth Sanders was born and raised on the northeast side of Grand Rapids and she has com-pleted nine marathons with the help

of yoga. “During practice, it’s just you, your mat and your breath,” she said.

“You can let go of everything else and really feel your body and give yourself a chance to renew.”

Vida Yoga (4365 Canal Ave. SW, Grandville) intends to serve yoga fans in Grandville and the Westside of Grand Rapids. A native of Jenison, owner Jen Wittlinger does not subscribe to one particular style of yoga. Her instructors specialize in a range of practices, from Holy Yoga to Power Vinyasa, and they are dedicated encouraging practitioners of all levels. Students include athletes, empty nesters, bodybuilders, spiri-tual leaders, young moms, retirees and cheerleaders. Vida Yoga’s newest class is bodyGROOVE, which is an energetic dance class that lifts the spirit and the heart rate. Unlike most group fitness classes, the movement is interpretive and incorporates the entire room.

“BodyGROOVE fits in perfectly with Vida’s mission of offering opportunities to be playful and feel good,” Jen said.

When not being yogatastic, Poppa Steve is known to chomp on a burger or two. Smashburger (6333 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Suite 450) in Kentwood is the second of a possible seven franchises of this Denver-based fast casual restaurant chain brought to West Michigan by Jim Carmody and Kent Ward of JK&T Wings. They are also responsible for lo-cal editions of Buffalo Wild Wings and Newk’s Cafe. Back to Smashburger. The curious Miss Carolita and our demure daughters recently visited this “better burger” restaurant. When the chef yells,

“Smash Up!” your mouth will start watering. The handcrafted burgers are smashed, seared and seasoned to order using fresh, premium beef. They have numerous gourmet offerings, like a Michigan Olive Burger, along with a list of high-quality toppings. This reporter was impressed by the BBQ, Bacon and Cheddar Burger. Miss Carolita had the All-American, of course. Miss Qiqi inhaled the child-sized burger, while Miss Lulu had an un-garnished grilled chicken sandwich. She doesn’t front. Don’t forget the handspun Haagen-Dazs shakes, my pets. n

SmashburgerPHOTO: STEVEN DE POLO

Yoga HEATCOURTESY PHOTO

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

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

Donk’s Mexican JointPHOTO: STEVEN DE POLO

Steven de polo’S

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

Free MArket


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe

DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS, MI616.356.2000 - THEBOB.COM

UNIQUE HANDCRAFTED, SMALL BATCH BEERS STANDARDS ON TAP

Blondie / Crimson King / Full On IPAFEBRUARY’S SEASONAL BEERS:

Chef-Brewer Collaboration Ale # 2 BOB ESBPeanut Butter Stout / Robert the Barrel Imperial Stout

Michigan Barley Wine Bourbon Barrel Aged BeerWit Rabbit / Cherry Rabbit / Spooky Action 2.5 IPA

Try all of our craft beers on tap!

BLONDIE

CRIMSONKING

FULL ONIPA

SPACEBOYSTOUT

WITRABBIT

HOPSUN



Saburba dinner at Sietsema orchards: Feast for AphroditeSietsema Orchards, Ada / Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m.$55 a person / sietsemaorchards.com, (616) 676-5584

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

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

dixon’s violin: transformational Journeys via digital violinKalamazoo Valley Museum / Feb. 15, 7 p.m.$5 / kvm.kvcc.edu, (800) 772-3370

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

Grand Rapids polar plunge 2013East Grand Rapids Middle School

Feb. 23, 11 a.m. / $10 and upfirstgiving.com/polarplunge

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

Arena district Mardi Gras CelebrationDowntown Grand Rapids / Feb. 12, 6 p.m.

FrEE! arenadistrictgr.com

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

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

Dixon’s Violin

/// eCleCtiC


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe



sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe

Romantic Dining

How to Get a Date

Date Ideas

Quirky WeddingsLoveThe

Issue

specIAl FeAture

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

So, what’s this mean for you? Nothing, really. You aren’t part of the Royal Family, nor have you ever demanded one million dollars per episode of your much-loved sitcom. Since you can’t afford a private, 13-course meal at a five-star restaurant, where do you go?

Luckily, there are plenty of affordable and unique places in West Michigan that fit your dating style. Read on for more on dates, fashion for every relationship status and some ways (WARNING: Not all good) to get a date.


top: hit the beach with My Barefoot Wedding. PhoTo: BRYAN PAuL rIght: Custom Dresses by vue Design Above: Get your name in lights at Wealthy theatre. PhoTo: JoN CLAY

love Issue

so, You’re engagedThe ring’s on and shown off. Where do you go from there? Here are some ideas for a unique wedding experience.

By Lindsay Patton-Carson


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

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

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

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

six flat screen televisions and the in-game radio broadcast, or on the venue’s patio. Just because it’s a wedding, doesn’t mean you must be demure. Let your fandom fly and belt, scream and tough talk with the rest of ‘em. Pepsi Stadium Club rental includes 200 game tickets, with food and bev-erage at an additional cost. The venue is also available for booking on non-game days. For more information, contact Corporate Event Sales Manager Alanna Klomp at (616) 784-4131. n

get It All done In one stop

MoDiv (40 Monroe Center NW, Grand Rapids) makes it easy for any couple looking to get things done fast and the way they want. The space

features four businesses that have customized services to make your wedding unique to your personality.

Start out at 6.25 Paper studio, where the bride and groom (or bride and bride or groom and groom) work with owner Abbey Fowler to create custom invitations, place cards, seating charts, thank you cards, save the dates and more. Whatever you can imagine, Fowler can help bring to life.

If dress hunting has you burnt out, maybe it’s best to have a hand in creating your own. Shannon Gales, who owns vue Designs helps brides “cre-ate a gown that’s unique to them based on their desires of the day,” she said.

Brides have options to work directly with Gales to create a custom dress or pick from the more affordable mix-and-match options available in the

boutique. Schedule your appointment by visiting vuedesign.net.

Get the goodies at ritaGirl’s, which creates spe-cialty cakes and sweet treats. Cakes come in classic white, chocolate and yellow, as well as more daring flavors such as red velvet, lemon, brown butter, cinnamon vanilla bean and apple spice. Mix it up even more with fillings that include coconut crème, chocolate ganache, raspberry, café latte, blueberry lavender, peanut butter, lemon cream, salted caramel and key lime cream.

Put the finishing touches on your wedding with bokay by eastern Floral. “We do what we can within our means to get the bride and groom the flowers and design they want,” said Manager Cherie Jaworowicz, who works in conjunction with Eastern Floral to give the couple as many options as possible. This includes utilizing unique and different containers for arrangements, as well as pieces that include different kinds of plants in vari-ous sizes. Jawaorowicz goes all out because as she says, “It’s a one-time thing; there’s no do-over.”

bokay by eastern Floral PhoTo: RoBERT MIChAEL IMAGES

6.25 Paper studioPhoTo: ABBY FoWLER


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

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

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

The single girl is advertising. She’s all smiles, hair flips and dramatic stares from across the room. on Valentine’s Day expect her to step up her game for a little romance. For the Love of shoes is a store in Saugatuck that should put a little sexy in her step. Find something with height in a great color to get noticed then heel it on over for some big-city energy at the Gatsby night Club in Kalamazoo. Sexy, stylish and sophisticated, this hot spot opens at 9 p.m. and has lots of singles, according to Media Manager Ryan Winfield. “The guys are going to be dressed up and it will be the best-looking crowd.” Snag a VIP area perch

with bottle service and when the time

is right, put those h e e l s t o w o r k

on the dance floor.

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

relAtIonshIp stAtus roundupBy Missy BLaCk

love Issue

Love makes the world go ‘round. one look at Facebook, and you see where that love is going and how it’s mutating. Take a look at the follow-ing classifications and find out where you land for ideas on what to wear and where to go to celebrate that big thing called love.

In a Relationship Engaged Married Single It’s Complicated

the Gatsby night Club Found

off the Cuff


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe


Be a New YouThere are four types of men in this world: In-shape guys, rich guys and interesting

guys. Who do you want to be? In-shape guys have little to no trouble getting dates. If you happen to have turned

your sadness into weight-loss moti-vation, you may actually be able to pull

this off. Rich guys get to drive fancy cars and wear tuxedos. And interesting guys can wear slim jeans and talk about books that TV shows are based on. Since you’re in “Man Limbo” you can choose to pretend you’re any of them.

What Now?Girls are almost everywhere and

most don’t know the old you.

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

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

You now have the tools. Take them and be fruitful. What you do is your own to work out. I recommend taking her to one or all of our amazing advertisers. Just remember: never sell yourself short and never think you’re too good for anybody, because you’re not. n

P.S. I realize this article is heavily slanted toward our male demo. For that, I apologize. Girls, you shouldn’t need my help, you’re a girl. But I, nevertheless, will give you the only ad-vice I can. Keep being a girl and always don’t not be a girl*. We are your slaves.

*Statement to be ignored if transgendered / Transsexual / bi-gendered / non-gendered / asexual / etc. / etc.

Michael L. Keil, D.O., FAOCO2500 E. Beltline SE, Suite C Grand Rapids, [email protected] (616) 365-5775

SURPRISE YOUR VALENTINE WITH THE GIFT OF SIGHT!

how to get A dAte For vAlentIne’s dAY (And Maybe Other Days, Too)

BY JoE GASMANN

love Issue

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


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

dInIng wIth Your dArlIng

BY LAuREN LoNGo AND CARLY PLANK

gIllY’s tAvern: Pork tenderloin



dAte nIghts

love Issue

Grand Rapids

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

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

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

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

hIstorY buFF dAteTurn into two of cinema’s greatest lovers when you visit the Grand rapids Public Museum’s titanic: the artifact exhibition (Feb. 9-July 7). Promise your Jack that you’ll

“never let go” while you browse more than 150 artifacts and room recreations from the tragic 1912 ship. After, head over to Cottage Bar, Grand Rapids’ oldest operat-ing bar and restaurant. Flippin’ burgers since 1927, this restaurant got attention in 2010 when its Cottage Burger made USA Today’s top burgers list. Finish your date with a pint at Grand rapids Brewing Company. opened in 1893, GRBC served up its famous Silver Foam until Prohibition shut down the brewery. It reopened on 28th Street in 1993, closed in 2011 and opened back up again in 2012 under new owner Barfly ventures, along with a new location, menu and beer recipes, including a new twist on Silver Foam.

rock dAteIf your current dates are becoming a little uninspired, consider taking your sweetheart to see the Pink Floyd experience at the orbit room (2525 Lake Eastbrook Blvd. SE, Grand Rapids) for a heady dose of creativity. While nothing compares to the real deal, still expect to be dazzled with the same theatrical, visual and musical combination the gods of psychedelic rock themselves began nearly 50 (Really? 50!?) years ago. Before you stim-ulate your senses, stop by vertigo Music (129 Division Ave. S, Grand Rapids) and sift through the seemingly endless crates of vinyl.

By Lindsay Patton Carson


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe


dAte nIghts

Kalamazoo

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

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

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

AntI Mush dAteIf the phrase “hey baby, let’s go pound some PBR and listen to punk music” is your idea of a pick-up l ine, Louie’s trophy house and Grill (440 East North St.) is the perfect date destination. Kalamazoo has bid farewell to its share of bars and venues over the years, but Louie’s continues to be a gathering place for just about every crowd.

MushY dAteWhen it comes to fine dining in the Zoo, it doesn’t get much better than Zazio’s italian restaurant, l o c a t e d i n t h e Radisson Plaza hotel and Suites. We’re talk-ing high-class wining and dining. The most coveted seats in the restaurant are at the chef’s table, which offers a five-course dinner and wine pairings along with interactions with the chef. These spots go quick, so call … like

… right now.

love Issue

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

eclectIc dAteThere is no law that says you can’t learn s o m e t h i n g o n a date. Stroll through the annals of avia-tion history at a real hidden gem: the air Zoo (6151 Portage Rd., Portage). The museum features a number of interac-tive displays, such as full-motion flight s i m u l a t o r s a n d other rides. General admission to Air Zoo is $10.

sportY dAteNothing says love like watching a Canadian goon punch some guy’s teeth out. This Shakespearian fantasy can be shared by you and your significant other at a Kalamazoo Wings game, held at Wings stadium (3600 Vanrick Dr.). on Valentine’s Day, the ice will be pink, but not from blood. The Wings are dying the ice pink for the Valentine’s Day Pink Ice game, ya dingus.

By Jayson Bussa


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe


dAte nIghts

Lakeshore

pAMpered dAteNothing says love like mud masks and rubdowns. At Bella vita spa + suites (119 Butler St., Saugatuck) your better half doesn’t have to be metro or a diva to enjoy an overnight stay in their luxury suites. Book a deal like the Suite Retreat Package and you’ll receive a $50 voucher toward spa services along with a complimentary bottle of wine. Don’t want to stay overnight? Try a 75-minute couple’s massage.

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

kItschY dAteGet wholesome and revel in holland’s heritage at nelis’ Dutch village (12350 James St., holland).

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

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

scIence nerd/ stArstruck dAteon Feb. 16, enjoy a dramatic date night while learning about Supernovas and Black holes at the Winter astronomy Program and sky viewing at the Nature Education Center (8115 West olive Rd., West olive). The event focuses on how stars die in a fiery explosion of the supernova and what it takes to become a black hole. The event is free and telescopes are provided. Although you will want to bring lawn chairs and maybe a thermos filled with something stiff to share.

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

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

love Issue

By Audria Larsen


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe

REAL TO REEL: THE INVISIBLE WAR

FEBRUARY 7 | 7:00 PM $5 MEMBERS / $7 NON-MEMBERS

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

Hill Entertainment Industry Team

INTRIGUING CONVERSATION: A CULINARY ROAD TRIP

FEBRUARY 21 | 7:00 PMFREE ADMISSION

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

Village Tours, Shoreline Realtors

HEMPY KEYBOARD PERFORMANCE: ELLEN ROWEFEBRUARY 17 | 2:00 PM $10 (STUDENTS & KIDS FREE)

Enjoy an intimate performance of original jazz compositions and standards in our beautiful lobby. Sponsored by Rex Hempy and Alan McPhail

TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION 269.857.2399 OR WWW.SC4A.ORG

AN INTIMATE EVENING:JANIS IAN MARCH 9, 2013 | 8:00 PM$35 IN ADVANCE$37 DAY OF THE SHOW

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

©2012 Photo by Two Eagles Marcus / Women’s LifeStyle Magazine



tItAnIc: the ArtIFAct eXhIbItIon Grand Rapids Public Museum 272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids Feb. 9 through July 7$17-$12/adults, $12-$10/children ages 3-18, free admission/children under 3grmuseum.org, (616) 456-3977

The Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition takes a look at more than 150 artifacts conserved from the ship’s debris field and features a poignant look at this iconic ship and its passengers. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is the perfect place to visit the exhibition and have conversations with your child on ship construction, life more than 100 years ago and the emotional connection. “Titanic, the topic, is very appealing,” said Kate Moore, director of marketing and public relations. “It was the unsinkable ship.” From preserved per-fume bottles found at the bottom of the ocean (that still hold scent) to an iceberg wall (that is cold to the touch), this exhibi-tion has great sensory cues. The best part might be the boarding pass ticket. “All of the boarding passes are gender specific and sort of guides you with information on that specific person. There is a memorial wall to see if your passenger perished or lived.” Guests may visit first-class room re-creations and see the dif-ferences between first class and third class accommodations.

chocolAte tAstIng wIth pAtrIcIA’s chocolAte Art of the Table 606 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids Feb. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Free artofthetable.com, (616) 301-1885

Patricia’s Chocolate descends upon Art of the Table for some sweet sampling right before the Valentine’s holiday. Taste the good life with the opportunity to pick up gifts for loved ones. “The nice thing about the chocolates are that they are pretty and they taste amazing. They’re all natural, fresh—with real ingredients,” says Amy Ruis, owner of Art of the Table. Chocolatier extraordinaire Patricia tells the story of her chocolates and adds in a meet-and-greet. If you’re looking for ideas, Ruis nudges you in the right direction. “I’ve eaten every single thing she makes. My favorite flavor is lemon

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

tutu run Spring Valley Park 2600 Mount Olivet Rd., Kalamazoo Feb. 2, 2 p.m.$10/suggested donation (give $25 or more and receive a Tutu Run t-shirt)girlsontherunkazoo.org, (269) 491-2663

Get out your tutus so you can run 2.2 miles on Feb. 2 at Spring Valley Park in Kalamazoo. open to all ages and benefit-ing Greater Kalamazoo Girls on the Run,

this run/walk features prizes for best overall tutu, biggest tutu, best male/female/kid/couples tutu and fastest tutu. “Kids will like the silliness of it,”

said Carrie hybels, coordinator of 5K and special events. “It’s good to see

mom and dad being silly. We’ve got lots of males already committed.” Encourage your child to prepare for

the run, join them in the run, cheer them on and celebrate after. A running/walking date is just the thing to make you feel good inside and out—and the tutu part adds a little pretty to the whole thing.

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

heArt to heArt crAFt pArtY Kent District Library/Englehardt-Lowell Branch, 200 N. Monroe St., Lowell Feb. 14, 10:30 a.m., Freekdl.org, (616) 784-2007

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

The art of wooing is sometimes lost on adults. The children, the

littles, can be much more appreciative, attentive and worthy of

our time. Take your darling out for a date somewhere sure to elicit

long conversations or snack on sweets. Go someplace with your

child where you leave with glittery creations and where you can run

around and get some fresh air. Take back the time that slips from

your grasp everyday and love your child up with time reserved just

for them, just for fun, just because. BY MissY BLaCK

lIttle loves

love Issue

tItAnIc ArtIFActs: Grand rapids Public Museum

Patricia’s Chocolate


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

sSC

eNe



/// sink’s spins On musiC

on thE MusiCal radar

traditions aside, i won’t wear my jammies to The Jammies. Despite the punny practice embraced by fun-loving volun-teer programmers at community radio station WYCE-FM (88.1), the world truly is better off not seeing me in my sleepwear at the annual

awards show celebrating West Michigan’s vibrant music scene. But while my jammies will miss the 14th annual bash at The Intersection on Feb. 22, I won’t: It remains the single most important – and likely most musically entertaining — evening of the year, with dozens of live performances on two stages and hundreds of musicians.

“It’s a total who’s who. Everyone is there,” said Karisa Wilson, Grand Rapids singer-songwriter, Jammies’ 2008 album of the year winner who’s nominated again for her latest, Stronger. And she’d attend, regardless. “I go every year. I have a good time.”

That upbeat vibe never changes. But with WYCE celebrating its 25th anniversary as the region’s most eclectic radio station, one big change rocks the Jammies in 2013: For the first time, the February awards show will be held on a Friday night, rather than Tuesday.

“Traditionalists who object to change of any kind have already expressed their dismay, which I take as affirma-tion of the move being a good idea,” said WYCE Station Manager Kevin Murphy, noting this year’s Jammies will take place the night before the popular Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival at Fifth Third Ballpark. “Since Bell’s (Brewery) is once again our main sponsor for the show, they are going to incorporate the Jammies into their official Beerfest plans for the weekend.”

More important, Murphy says, the switch to Friday should “encourage more people to stay” for the entire show because they won’t worry about getting up early for work the next day. And with stellar acts such as The Crane Wives, The Go Rounds and The Fauxgrass Quartet sched-uled to perform, and with more than 130 local recordings up for album of the year honors, it promises to be a night of live music folks will long remember. (Doors open at 5 p.m.; get updated information online at wyce.org.)

Three words of advice: Get there early. “It’s already a pretty packed event, but I would an-

ticipate it being standing-room-only on a Friday night,” said Intersection General Manager Scott Hammontree, who describes the Jammies as one of the nightclub’s favorite events. “It should be the best one ever in terms of attendance.”

It will also serve as a showcase for potential future bookings.

“We love to see the local community come out and support local artists,” said Hammontree, who describes the Jammies as “a real energetic night with a room full of great people. Gives us an opportunity to take a listen to some acts that might not normally play the room, and in turn, we can try to bring some of them back on other shows.”

Not only will Friday’s energy mean folks will be “more inclined to hang around until the end,” says Murphy, but it could give extra oomph to planned after-parties. It shapes up as a very late night indeed, so maybe packing pajamas isn’t such a bad idea after all. n

by John Sinkevics

the Fauxgrass Quartet, playing at the Jammies on Feb. 22 at the intersection

singer-songwriter Karisa Wilson has been nominated this year for her latest effort, Stronger. PhOTO: bRian KELLy

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

Cd rElEasEs

WillamenaLost in the Shadows

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

thirsty Perch Blues BandCity Lights EP

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


sCEnE | | siGhTs | DininG | sChEDULESouNDS

You Can’t have a disCussion aBout thrash metal without bringing up Testament. The band helped define the genre in the San Francisco Bay Area during the early 1980s, a scene widely rec-ognized as one of the birthplaces of this faster, more aggressive take on heavy metal.

Now the band is riding the success of its latest studio recording, Dark Roots of Earth, the tenth album in its 30-year history. But this album, while true to the classic Testament feel and sound, was written with more of an inward approach, with less of a focus on what others want to hear and more on what the guys were feeling at the time.

“This one really is one of those records that when we were writing the songs we didn’t really need to think about it,” said Frontman Chuck Billy. “We’d just say, ‘This feels good, let’s go with it.’ But it turns out our gut feeling was actually right.”

Indeed it was, as Dark Roots found its way to No. 12 on the Billboard 200, was among Amazon’s 2012 Editor Picks, and was also voted iTunes’ U.S. Metal Album of the Year 2012.

“It came together pretty quick,” Billy said of the album. “There’s always those songs like ‘Native Blood’ that were written really fast. You know those are the ones that are really good, when they’re there that fast. Those are the ones that always stand out.”

“Native Blood,” the album’s second single, and a nod to Billy’s Native American heritage, did stand out. In fact, the music video for the song won Best Music Video at the 2012 American Indian Film Festival.

“That was pretty awesome,” Billy said of shooting the video. “I had the video idea in my head and wanted to bring the native culture in it. Dancers, fire, the whole thing. We shot it up on the reservation on our property. The community really joined in; the

tribal council, police department, neighbors. I even met family members I never met before. The guys in the band really got to experience the energy. You felt this raw power and energy. It was pretty incredible.”

Now the band is out on its first headlining tour since the new album’s release, with support from a solid thrash metal cast consisting of Overkill, Flotsam and Jetsam and 4ARM.

“People are really interested in this kind of pack-age, so we’re going to go out and slay it.”

Since Testament’s last three tours saw the band members play-ing a lot of their earlier material, they’re looking to switch it up a bit this time around.

“There’s a whole new generation of fans out there who are interested in our new stuff,” Billy said. “We’re going to focus on more of our modern stuff, which is cool because our new stuff kicks ass.” n

tEstaMEnt wsg overkill, Flotsam and Jetsam, 4arMThe intersection, Grand Rapids Feb. 21, 6 p.m. $25 advance, $28 day of showall ages sectionlive.com, (616) 451-8232

Introduction to the New teStAMeNt

thE old tEstaMEntWhen the bay area thrash band founded, it was originally called Legacy, but the group ran into some issues when they discovered a jazz band already had the name trademarked. so they switched to Testament and called their first studio album The Legacy.

thE nEW tEstaMEntThe current iteration of Testament features four of the members from the band’s seminal days in the late 1980s and early 1990s, including Chuck billy (vocals), Eric Peterson (guitar), Greg Christian (bass) and alex skolnick (guitar). however, Testament rivals perhaps even spinal Tap for the number of drummers who’ve been in the band. Over Testament’s three decades, the band played with more than a dozen drummers, including metal masters Paul bostaph, John Tempesta, Dave Lombardo and Gene hoglan — who’s currently on tour with them.

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

toP tEstaMEnt“alone in the Dark,” “Trial by Fire,” “The ballad,” “souls of black,” “Electric Crown,” “hail Mary,” “True believer”

— Joe Boomgaard

/// On tOur by Dwayne Hoover

PhOTO: DEan KaRR


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

|

|

sCE

nESo

uNDS


/// On tOur

Legendary journalist hunter s. thompson onCe said,

“San Francisco in the late ‘60s was a very special time and place ... there were sparks in any direction.” This could also be said of Seattle in the early 1990s. Bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden and Alice in Chains made a name for themselves

that still rings out. Despite being the “red-headed stepchild of the [Seattle grunge] scene,” as Lead Singer Kevin Martin puts it, Candlebox did a lot to progress that era of music, and continues to this day.

“We have just kind of grown musically. We have become better songwriters,” Martin said. “We became talented musicians rather than young kids with no concept of what we’re doing with our lives.”

Despite the band members’ growth as artists and their contribution to a fabled time of music history, Martin is still hesitant to lump Candlebox in with many of the most famous Seattle grunge acts.

“We are quite a bit younger in age than [those bands]. I was 19 when I started the band with [drummer Scott Mercado] ...There were so many bands that were good. You could go out four or five times a week and see a great show, which to me was like being in New York City in the ’70s,” Martin says of the Seattle scene.

Having released its self-titled first record — which includes the classic hit “Far Behind” — in 1993, this year marks Candlebox’s 20th anniversary. In April of 2012, the band released its fifth studio record, Love Stories & Other Musings.

While touring extensively on their new record, Candlebox is also playing the debut album in its entirety at all stops. One of those stops will be The Orbit Room in Grand Rapids on Feb. 7. Martin said the band will be playing some songs it hasn’t played live in more than a decade.

“We haven’t done that since 1993,” Martin said about playing the band’s debut. “1994 was the last time we played that album from top to bottom.”

Despite having achieved international success in their own right, Martin still has pangs for the grunge days of Seattle in 1992.

“I would love to tour with Soundgarden. It would be pretty cool to see Candlebox and Soundgarden mix.” n

CandlEboxThe Orbit Room, Grand Rapids Feb. 7, 7 p.m.$20 advance, $25 day of show 16+ orbitroom.com, (616) 942-1328

Candlebox No Longer ‘Far Behind’ | by Nick Manes


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

siG

hTs

|

|

sCE

nESo

uNDS



Avenue for the arts newBie gaspard gallery has definitely hit the ground running. The artist-run gallery, which held its first exhibit during the 2012 ArtPrize competition, has been host to some stunning pho-tography exhibits that exude a sophistication seldom seen in

galleries just starting out. This month, bodies of work from local talents Leah Schreiber and

Laura Hobson focus on abstraction in multiple mediums using decon-structed and re-purposed subjects. Large scale drawings and naturally dyed textile work will be highlighted in selected works.

“We are really excited,” said Chris Cox, one of the gallery’s coordinators. “Coming off of two photography exhibi-tions, it feels really good to present some different mediums.”

Schreiber and Hobson were selected for a number of reasons, Cox said.

“Both artists are working within their given mediums in ways that make you think about the works in a different

way than you would normally view a drawing or textile piece,” he said. “The works have the ability to transcend association to the medium and allow the viewer to see with fresh eyes.”

He added that this is the type of work he and the gallery’s two other coordinators, Jacob Bullard and Ben Biondo, are searching for when they plan shows.

“These are works that have longevity, they are beautiful and inter-esting when you look at them, but they then force the viewer to stay longer and dig into the works.”

Overall, the gallery aims to showcase work that is challenging and steers away from art that is purely for decorative sake. “We are looking

for work that while visually interesting and engaging, is also grounded in a conceptual framework,” said Cox.

The name Gaspard means “treasure keeper” in Persian and was something Bullard — a poet — came up with.

“We believe that artwork is something to be treasured, and the gallery is, in a sense, a treasure keeper,” Cox said. “We have seen gallery spaces that have work from the floor to the ceiling and found it to be a bit distracting. We want the gallery to be a place where nearly all distractions can be removed and the viewer can devote honest attention to the work. Giving work more breathing room and not crowding the space allows the viewer to comfortably view each piece and give the attention it deserves.”

Bullard, Biondo and Cox are recent college graduates and say the goal of the gallery is to provide a space for art viewers, contemporary artists and art collectors alike. Cox said Grand Rapids can often be overlooked when it comes to buying contemporary art with collec-tors opting for Chicago or New York, but with more galleries offering stronger exhibitions, those tides can begin to change.

“Artwork is at many times beautiful and entertaining, but Gaspard exists for more than just beauty and entertainment. Gaspard exists to actually have serious conversations about art and culture, and we hope the gallery can start some new conversations in Grand Rapids.” n

by Alexandra Fluegel visuAl Art

laura hobson and lEah sChrEibEr oPEning rECEPtionGaspard Gallery235 s. Division ave., apt. 111Feb. 7, 7–11 p.m. FrEE!

gaspardgallery.com

Live CoverageUICA, Grand RapidsFeb. 16, 6-11 p.m. Call for admission priceuica.org, (616) 454-7000

More than 50 local artists break out of their attics, basements and back-alley studios to produce new works at one of the uICA’s most popular events. Live Coverage allows attendees to catch a glimpse of the creative process and bid on pieces in live and silent auctions. It will be the first year the event is held in the organization’s new space, making this a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Sight and Feeling: Photographs by Ansel AdamsKalamazoo Institute of ArtsThrough May 19$5, Free for memberskiarts.org, (269) 349-7775 Work from one of America’s most celebrated photographers is on display at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. Known best for his black-and-white nature photographs of the American West, Adams’ work is instantly recognizable. The exhibition from the KIA collection suggests how his intuitive and emotional response to the landscape resulted in powerful and enduring photographs.

Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the American Museum of MagicGVSU Art Gallery1121 Performing Arts Center, Allendale CampusJan. 14–March 20 FrEE!

gvsu.edu/artgallery, (616) 331-2563 Surprised to learn that the American Museum of Magic is located in Marshall, Mich.? Get a glimpse of some of the institution’s treasures, including more than thirty stunning graphic visuals and objects related to legends such as Thurston, Houdini, and Michigan’s own Harry Blackstone, Sr. The exhibition will also include a Chamber Music Series performance by some of GvSu’s student performance groups on February 18 from 8-9pm.

Other Arts Events

GASPArD GALLerY: New Kids on the Block

ABove: a work by Leah schreiber. BeLoW: a Laura hobson painting.


sCEnE | sOUnDs | DiinG | sChEDULE SIGHtS

Ted fox is a wiseass, but if it weren’t for life’s little ironies, he never would have thought to make a living as one. After gradu-ating with a degree in economics from Notre Dame, he was lucky enough to land his

dream job at ESPN, only to find it nothing short of nightmarish.

“It was a classic case of, ‘If you like sausage, don’t visit the sausage factory,’” Fox said.

In need of a fresh start, he took a writing job in the public relations department of his alma mater and realized that it wasn’t too late to rediscover his passion for funny business. Countless hours of spare time, an agent and an unpublished book later, a humor writer was born.

You Know Who’s Awesome? Not You is a collection of savagely witty tweets that ex-plore humanity in all its idiosyncratic glory. The concept arose from a series of posts on Fox’s blog, each one probing the ridiculous-ness of a different social paradigm, which caught the eye of an agent who thought a collection of them could work well in book format. She shifted Fox’s online focus to Twitter and helped him build a substan-tial following and enough material to entice publishers. Fox claims he wouldn’t have reached anyone without social media. With more comedians using the medium

as a platform for their humor, the challenge is to remain funny with fewer words and stiffer competition.

Along with his Twitter account (@AuthorTedFox), he counts a website (tedfoxisawesome.com) and a few blogs among the tools he uses to convey his highly re-

latable brand of humor. He is currently at work on a book, tentatively titled 33: Jesus, Belushi, Farley, and Me, which pokes fun at the propensity of humans to reassess their priorities as they near middle age. For Fox, that meant compiling a list of the 33 things (all awesome, of course) he must do before he dies.

“It’s almost like this Eat, Pray, Love kind of thing,” he said. “But I’m a humor writer, and unlike Eat, Pray, Love-lady, I actually like my life, so I don’t want to throw it all away.”

Offline, Fox uses public appearances as an opportunity to further connect with his audience. At the three events he’s been a part of so far, he’s relished the opportunity to meet and connect with people who re-

ally get what his writing is all about. At the heart of his comedic approach lies the kind of self-examination that each of us needs in order to stave off self-destruction.

“It’s being able to laugh at ourselves, to relieve that stress and pressure,” he said. “That’s where humor really has value.” n

by kyle Austin

Ted Fox Is Laughing at Us All

Hope Visiting Writers Series: Shane Book and Mat JohnsonKnickerbocker Theatre, Downtown HollandFeb. 7, 6:30 p.m.hope.edu, (616) 395-7403

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

A Lacks Family Presentation by David LacksFetzer Center Auditorium, Western Michigan University, KalamazooFeb. 11, 4:30 p.m.wmich.edu, (269) 387-1000

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

Grand Valley Writers Series: Patricia Clark and Chris HavenCook-DeWitt Auditorium, Grand Valley State University, AllendaleFeb. 12, 4 p.m.gvsu.edu, (616) 331-5000

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

Other Literary Events

lit life

MEEt huMorist tEd Foxbarnes and noble, hollandFeb. 2, 1 p.m.tedfoxisawesome.com, (616) 994-6015


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

SIGH

tS


on e of ope ra’s B iggest Bad Boys seduces the stage in Opera Grand Rapids’ production of Mozart’s masterpiece, Don Giovanni. Black humor and sexual energy blend in this dark tale of a flagrant womanizer who stands defiant even in the face of hell.

Edgy and fast-paced, the show appeals to opera buffs and newcomers alike.

“Even people who do not know much about opera could enjoy the show because it moves pretty quickly and is something that really appeals to a younger audience,” Production Manager Claire Root Benson said.

Although current and relevant, the show preserves the opera’s historical authenticity by offering a classical telling.

“We are really doing a pretty traditional presentation,” Root Benson said. “It’s set in Seville in the seventeenth century, and the production will be for all intents and purposes set there … which I think is the really smart way to do it for the characters because it is important who is upper and who is lower class, and that doesn’t always translate so well into modern times.”

The show’s most enduring appeal for Root Benson, however, is the wonder of Mozart’s music and the rich, humorous characters it develops.

“Mozart is one of the most famous composers who ever lived, and his operas, in my opinion, are some of his best works. He liked opera and did lots of work with different types of music for different types of characters. [Giovanni’s servant] Leporello’s musical style is a lot simpler and a lot slower to make him seem like a bumbling guy, while Don Giovanni’s is a more lyrical, higher type of composition

... Even if you don’t know what type of person a character is, you can tell through the music.”

While the characters are complex and rich, the nature of the performance — as well as a stellar cast — promise plenty of opportunities for these diverse characters to shine their brightest.

“This is a traditional ensemble piece. Some operas have a very large chorus and just a few stars, but this is heavy on the lead and light on

the chorus. It’s a very cool cast and we are excited about them. There is a lot of comic relief such as the relationship between Don Giovanni and Leporello, which I always tell people are like Lefou and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast … I think the singers will pull off that relationship really well.” n

Don GiovanniDeVos Performance hall, Grand RapidsFeb. 8–9, 7:30 p.m.$21–98; students/seniors 50 percent offoperagr.com, (616) 451-2741

by Allison Parker

opera grand rapids delivers sensational Musical treat

Other Performing Arts Events

Caroline, or ChangeWMU Theatre, Kalamazoo Feb. 1–3 and 8–10; show times at 2, 7 and 8 p.m. / $5–$20wmich.edu/theatre, (269) 387-6222

Amidst the turmoil of the Civil Rights Movement, mistreated black maid Caroline fights for dignity and respect. Realistic and fantastic elements combine as the stalwart single mother develops a special relationship with the needy child of her Jewish employer. As the friends surmount humiliation and heartache, their journey often provides flashes of inspiration and hope. But even changing times are ultimately unable to free Caroline from racial inequality, and eventually she must sacrifice her own pride to support those she loves. Sensational Motown and blues num-bers bring this Tony-nominated musical to a tragic crescendo.

hairMiller Auditorium, Kalamazoo Feb. 26–27, 7:30 p.m. / $25–$55millerauditorium.com, (269) 387-2300

Political protest and sexual revolution take center stage in the gritty rock musical, Hair. Often considered one of the most contro-versial Broadway musicals, the show is unafraid of using profanity, drugs and nudity to explore sensitive issues of naturalism and freedom. The story centers on the lives and loves of an exuberant, bohemian hippie tribe fighting against vietnam conscription. As the tribe struggles to find peace in the midst of chaos, musical favorites “Aquarius,”

“Let the Sun Shine In” and “Good Morning, Starshine” bring irresistible excitement and energy.

Monty Python’s sPaMalot Wharton Center, East Lansing Feb. 1, 8 p.m. / $28–$63whartoncenter.com, (517) 432-2000

Outrageous silliness and clever slapstick abound in this smash rip-off of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table takes the stage as never before along-side vegas showgirls and killer rabbits. Jabs at Broadway, homophobia, divas and more accompany Arthur as he sets out on a de-lightfully ridiculous quest for the Holy Grail. Don Quixote, the Knights Who Say Ni and God are just a few of the colorful characters Arthur and the gang meet along the way.

Don Giovanni, Feb. 8-9, devos Performance hall.

On stAge


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

SIGH

tS


C ruise your closet for a LBD and something red because two themed parties hit Grand Rapids, and clothing is key. On Feb. 7, Cygnus 27 (187 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) hosts the 2nd Annual red Party. The event partners with Valentine Vodka out of Detroit for a night of specialty cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and dancing in a sea of red. “It’s a fun, high-spirited night. We encourage people to wear their best red or Valentine-inspired outfits,” Andrew Bowen, Associate Director of Food and Beverage at Amway Hotel Corporation said. Also this month, the JW Marriott (235 Louis Campau Promenade NW, Grand Rapids) hosts the Little Black dress Party for those that are in love or looking for

love. General Manager George Aquino’s mid-winter recipe for rejuvenation involves a, “little black dress, drinking and dancing” among sharp-dressed partygoers in cocktail attire. Just a little bit of style for those long winter nights.

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

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

Fashion and paper collide at Kendall College of Art and Design’s 1001 Sheets: Bodies of Art 2013 Spring Fashion Show. Held at The Goei Center (818 Butterworth St. SW, Grand Rapids) on March 1 at 8 p.m., this show features student designers from all different departments at Kendall collaborating for a show comprised completely of

paper. We’re talking artist-grade paper, watercolor paper, children’s graph paper, even industrial paper (meat-packing paper). “Pretty much anything that falls under the category of paper that stays within the color palette so people don’t lose sight that it is paper [is fair game],” said Katie Wright, president of the Bodies of Art Fashion Alliance. The origami-inspired show puts focus on paper’s abilities and the many ways it can be folded and cut. “Contemporary, minimal and geometric,” is how Wright describes this fine arts fashion show. In conjunction with the show will be a gallery displaying the works of photographer Claire Lea. Lea’s high-fashion photo shoot inspired the Bodies of Art theme. Visit kcad.edu for more information.

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

MiSSy BlACk’S

StYLe NoteS Spring fashion shows with a nod toward

origami don’t come along every day. Hit that and the new soap deli store and consider your life charmed.

B o d i e s o f A r t P r e s e n t s1 0 0 1 S h e e ts , A s p r i n g fa s h i o n s h ow

friday, 3-1-13 Goei Center

7:00PM Entry, 8:00PM Showtime

Complementary Valet Park ing

I n c l ud i n g :

Works and Photography by Claire Lea

K enda l l c o l l e g e o f art and D e s i g n ’ s

Soap Deli’s offerings.

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


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

SIGH

tS


DAN CUMMINSJan. 31 - Feb. 2

SHANE MAUSSFebruary 7 - 9

JUSTON MCKINNEYFebruary 14 - 16

At The B.O.B.Grand Rapids, MI

616.356.2000www.thebob.com

THEGILMORECOLLECTION.COM

TOM SIMMONSFeb. 28 - Mar. 2

KEVIN POLLAKFebruary 21 - 23

Paula poundstone makes Being funny seem effortless. Whether she’s providing com-mentary as a panelist on NPR’s new quiz show, “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me!,” performing stand-up or simply having a casual conversation, she nonchalantly drops jokes left and

right like it’s second nature. Poundstone began her comedy career in 1979 performing at the

Ding Ho Comedy Club, a venue that helped jumpstart the careers of Bobcat Goldthwait, Denis Leary and others. After a while Poundstone, wanted to branch out.

“I took a Greyhound bus around the country to see what other clubs were like and I ended up in San Francisco for a few years, before I came down here to stupid Southern California.”

Poundstone has been performing comedy non-stop since then, often in her signature outfit of a suit and tie, an ensemble somewhat

inspired by Lucille Ball and Diane Keaton in Woody Allen’s Annie Hall.

“I can’t believe men have com-plained about it all these years, because the truth is, it’s just so easy,” she said about her sexually ambiguous wardrobe.

Aside from stand-up, Poundstone worked on multiple projects, from writing her book, There’s Nothing in This Book That

I Meant to Say, to guest spots on “Cybill,” various TV comedy specials and spots on Letterman and Jay Leno. In 1999, Poundtsone provided the voice for the character Paula Small on the animated show “Home Movies,” a job she says she took on because, “It’s easy ... I’m really drawn to the easy stuff.”

She also isn’t opposed to trying her hand at feature films. “Bridesmaids just was so damn funny, and I’m like ‘Oh my god,

do I wish I could be working on something like that,’ and maybe I will be later. It will probably be in an older woman role by the time I get off and on to it.”

Poundstone has also been known to talk politics, appearing as a political commentator on “The Tonight Show,” though she readily admits she’s no expert.

“I am not a political analyst or historian,” she said. “I really feel that I am a citizen sort of desperately hanging on, like most of us, trying to understand as much as I can in order to cast a halfway decent vote.”

Currently, Poundstone can be heard on the weekly NPR news quiz “Wait! Wait! Don’t Tell Me!” as a panelist.

“It’s a really great fit between me and them, because in so many job settings do people ask me not to say stuff, and in this job they go, ‘Say whatever you want, just jump in, just whatever!’ And that was the mandate from the very start.”

On Feb. 8, fans will be able to hear Poundstone’s side-splitting stand-up, about a third of which she tries to improvise to make it “A one-night-only kind-of a thing.”

And audience members better be prepared to interact. “My favorite part of the night is talking to the audience. I do the

time honored ‘Where are you from? What do you do for a living?’ and in this way, little biographies of audience members emerge and I kind of use that to set my sails.” n

COmedyby Josh Spanninga

Paula PoundstonEKalamazoo state TheatreFeb 8, 8 p.m.$24.50-$35kazoostate.com, (269) 345-6500

Paula Poundstone readies Herself for Smooth Comedic Sailing

“I am not a political analyst or historian. I really feel that I am a citizen sort of desperately hanging on, like most of us, trying to understand as much as I can in order to cast a halfway decent vote.”


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

SIGH

tS


in thE WorKsLocal production company Bearfruit Films just wrapped up filming in Grand Rapids for its upcoming faith-based action/drama film, Rumors of Wars. The first half of the film was shot at Cornerstone University with plans to wrap up the second half of filming in Mississippi.

Rumors of Wars follows a post-apocalyptic “new world soldier” through his discovery of a diary with research recorded by an aspiring college journalist. The diary reveals disturb-ing truths about the setting’s global turmoil, and ultimately prompts our protagonist to go off on his own journey and make sense of his newfound faith.

The film was written and directed by Paul Tomborello, who founded Bearfruit Films along with the film’s executive pro-ducer James Simmons. Co-producer Sean Stephens said Tomborello has always been a fan of the post-apocalyptic film genre.

“I think his idea for Rumors of Wars came from his fandom for this theme, as well as a strong desire to bring a redemptive theme to the movie-going public,” said Sean Stephens, who is co-producing the film alongside Patrick Werksma and Simmons.

Stephens said the film appeals to at least two subsets of audiences — the ones who either enjoy the post-apocalyptic genre, and those who like “redemptive” films.

Rumors of Wars aligns with the produc-tion company’s overall goal, which Mariea Luisa Macavei, who does social media and marketing for Bearfruit, says is to “bridge

the gap between the faith-based and secular communities.”

“We don’t want to be in-your-face preachy,” Macavei said. “We want to enter-tain and inspire our audience with films that are both creative and unpredictable with integrity in presentation.”

He said the team is aiming for a lim-ited theatrical release of Rumors of Wars this summer.

Check out Bearfruit Films on Facebook, or visit the website at bearfruitfilms.com.

on thE toWnGrand Rapids’ Urban Institute of Contem-porary Arts gives film lovers a chance to get familiar with Oscar-nominated short films before the titles take to the red carpet with its 2013 Oscar Shorts series.

“This series is very popular and we’re excited to have a full three weeks to run it prior to Oscar Night — people love to see these films before the awards ceremony,” said Ryan Dittmer, film program manager at UICA.

The programming begins Feb. 1, with a week dedicated to Live Action, Documentary and Animation short film nominees, respectively.

Visit uica.org for updates and more information.

Halloween has come and gone, but West Michigan filmgoers can still get their fix of spooks and scares this month when

the Thriller! Chiller! International Genre Film Festival’s kicks off its eighth season with Dead of Winter, a program hosted by T!C! on Feb. 1 at Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids.

This is the third year T!C! has announced the opening of its submissions phase of the festival through the Dead of Winter event, which marketing and public relations man-ager Shirley Clemens said also functions as a

“fun, off-season event for local fans.” This year, T!C! organizers will reach

into their archives to pull out the Best of Fest Short Programs for 2013, and will also show trailers for some genre films by local Michigan producers with 2013 release dates.

Clemens said the remainder of the pro-gram will feature two 90-minute international genre short films programs beginning at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. respectively with an intermis-sion between the two blocks.

At Dead of Winter, T!C! faithfuls can purchase all-access festival passes for the 2013 film festival in advance for $25 – a 37 percent discount from the regular $40 you’ll spend next October.

The event itself costs $6 per person, $5 if you’re a Grand Rapids Community Media Center or West Michigan Film and Video Alliance member.

Keeping in line with tradition, Clemens said all proceeds of the event go to the Wealthy Theatre’s Sustainable Centennial Campaign.

“It’s a double-your-money event for the fans, because one entry fee gets you into both programs to see a total of approximately 15-20 short films and it’s also a benefit for the Wealthy Theatre,” she said.

Check out more festival details online at facebook.com/thrillerchiller or visiting thrillerchiller.com. n

filmby Anya Zentmeyer

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

PhOTOs: sPRUCE DERDEnRumors of Wars in production.

(l-r): Mac Powell, Paul tomborello and brad stine on the Rumor of Wars set.


sChE

DULE

| D

inin

G |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

SIGH

tS

oPEning FEb. 1

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

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

oPEning FEb. 14

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

son, Jack (Jai Courtney) back to the states. When they discover a nuclear weapons heist in Moscow, Jack and John join forces to thwart what seems like an imminent world war, proving that any day is a good day for this father-son team to save humanity. Escape from Planet Earth 3-DAn all-star cast ( Jessica Alba, James Gandolfini, Brendan Fraser) lend their voices to this computer-animated family comedy from The Weinstein Company (Hoodwinked). When an out-of-this-world astronaut named Scorch Supernova hastily responds to an SOS call from a strange planet, he finds himself standing outside of the most bizarre structure he has ever seen: A 7-11 convenience store. It is here that top-secret members of Area 51 try to capture Scorch, sending his home planet into a state of emergency.

oPEning FEb. 22

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

mOvie///previeWsby Diana Nowak

Warm Bodies, opening Feb. 1.


sCEnE | sOUnDs | DiinG | sChEDULE SIGHtS

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2403277/


grand raPids

Angel’s thai Café136 Monroe Center NW. 616-454-9801 tHAI. This downtown restaurant makes your order fresh, fast, and hot. you can order your entree with your choice of meat and spice level, or create your own. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Thai Steak and Yum Talay.

Bartertown Diner6 Jefferson St. Se. 616-233-3219 veGAN. This worker-owned-and-operated restaurant offers a variety of tasty healthy dishes fresh and hand-picked right from local family farms. Want a certain recipe or cooking lessons? Events and programs are barterTown’s way of getting the community involved. so don’t be surprised if one day there’s Greek and Mediterranean cuisine and the next it’s all about pizza. » SERVING: Breakfast (Saturday & Sunday), Lunch, Dinner. OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Locally based vegan meals.

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

Big Bob’s Pizza661 Croswell Dr. 616-233-0123 ItALIAN. Located in Gaslight Village in East Grand Rapids (across from Jersey Junction), big bob’s is a cozy restaurant that serves up specialty pizzas, pastas, burritos, sandwiches and salads. sit out on the deck and enjoy happy hour from 4-6 p.m. and 9p.m.-close seven days a week. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza and beer (is there a better combination?).

Big o Café80 ottawa NW. 616-451-1887 ItALIAN. The downtown (and downstairs) restaurant has a reliable menu featuring pizza, pasta, and sandwiches that are italian and Cuban influenced. a great spot for lunch or a quick glass of wine and plate of pasta before a downtown event. » SERVING: Lunch

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

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

Bistro Bella vita44 Grandville Ave. SW. 616-222-4600 ItALIAN. One of Grand Rapids’ best dining experiences, featuring Mediterranean-inspired country cuisine, a swanky yet comfortable downtown atmopshere and personable service. bbV’s culinary team creates authentic, housemade recipes made with locally grown produce, fresh seafood and rotisserie roasted meats. specialty gluten-free menu, and can prepare custom dishes for lactose intolerant, vegetarian, and vegan diets. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Mediterranean Country Cuisine and Martinis.

Blue Water Grill5180 Northland Dr. 616-363-5900 SeAFooD. One of Grand Rapids’ most inspired restaurants in terms of overall ambi-ance, with Frank Lloyd Wright-style architecture, a stunningly massive fireplace, and some of the best water views in West Michigan. The food is similarly inspired, drawing from italian, Mediterranean and classic american influences. all the traditional favorites are accounted for with a wide variety of wood-fired pizzas, seafood, steaks, chops, salads, and sandwiches. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Grass Fed Beef.

Bobarino’s20 Monroe Ave. NW. 616-356-2000 ItALIAN. a melting pot of food, live entertainment and fun. Live music Tuesday through saturday, including rock, jazz, retro, country, rockabilly and more. Large game room with video games, billiards and shuffleboard. Menu includes vast array of wood-fired pizzas, plus burgers, entrées and classic appetizers. Lunch buffet with pizza, pasta, and salad for $6.45. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Wood-fired pizzas.

Bombay Cuisine1420 Lake Dr. Se 616-456-7055 INDIAN. Offering savory and subtly spiced dishes from northern india, bombay

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

Brandywine1345 Lake Dr./2844 east Beltline Ne 616-774-8641/616-363-1723 AMerICAN. both locations do brisk business at breakfast, especially on sundays, but also offer a solid lunch and dinner menu featuring sandwiches, pasta, Mexican favorites and the legendary beehive potatoes. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Breakfast.

Bulls Head tavern188 Monroe NW. 616-454-3580 AMerICAN. Downtown eatery is a great spot for business lunch or casual pre-show dinner, with a wide-ranging menu that includes salads, burgers, pasta, seafood and steaks. specialties include the ostrich burger, sashimi tuna and smoked Gouda chicken pasta. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: The Ostrich Burger.

Charley’s Crab63 Market SW. 616-459-2500 SeAFooD. a staple on the fine-dining scene in Grand Rapids. Fresh seafood, a world-class sunday brunch and a comfortable, upscale atmosphere for drinks and dining. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Sunday brunch buffet.

Cherie Inn969 Cherry Se. 616-458-0588 BreAkFASt. The East hills restaurant is one of the area’s most-loved breakfast and lunch spots. a neighborhood staple for more than 60 years, the eatery offers a cozy, café-style setting complete with French flags, weathered brick walls, pressed tin ceiling, and intimate tables. breakfast is the true star, with a variety of regular dishes like eggs Florentine and blueberry pancakes, as well as specials like red-flannel hash and almond joy pancakes. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: T W Th F Sa Sn. GO THERE FOR: Eggs Florentine.

the Corner Bar31 N. Main St. 616-866-9866 AMerICAN. The downtown Rockford tavern serves a solid menu of burgers, burritos, salads and sandwiches, but it is best known for hot dogs — serving almost 1,000 per day. its hot-dog-eating challenge has been conquered by more than a few, but it raises the question: Why would you want to consume Corner bar dogs in a hurry rather than savor each bite? » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Hot dogs.

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

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

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

Founders Brewing Company235 Grandville SW. 616-776-1195 BreWPuB. a beer-lover’s paradise with a national reputation for flavorful, award-winning beers. Likewise, the brewpub’s menu consists mainly of flavorful handcrafted deli sandwiches that can stand up and complement the beers (or vice versa). » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Award-winning beer, handcrafted sandwiches.

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

Gilly’s20 Monroe NW. 616-356-2000 SeAFooD. Gilly’s may not be the biggest name on the seafood block, but it takes

diningrEvuE’s dining listings are compiled by staff and minions. this is not intended to be

a comprehensive list of restaurants in the region; for our full list, visit revuewm.com/

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

openings and closings, editorial space, budgets, deadlines, acts of god, congressional

hearings and, of course, visits and meals at restaurants throughout the region. the

listings are not intended to be reviews of West Michigan restaurants, although we will

inject some opinions into the listings based on experiences or the personal preferences

of staff. our intention is to expand and sharpen the content every month to make it the

region’s most user-friendly and accurate dining guide. to submit or correct information

in a dining listing, please send an e-mail to [email protected].

Restaurant listings arranged by region


sCEnE | sOUnDs | siGhTs sChEDULE DINING

dining

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

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

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

Grand rapids Brewing Company1 Ionia Ave SW. 616-458-7000 BreWPuB. Good for the environment and your palate, GRbC is Michigan’s first certified organic brewery and features a menu stocked with locally grown ingredients. With a diverse selection of beers on tap inspired by historical Grand Rapids figures and a hearty array of burgers, melts and hand-cranked sausages, this place represents the best of the Grand Rapids brewing Company’s 120-year legacy. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Organic beer and locally sourced food.

Grand Woods Lounge77 Grandville Ave SW. 616-451-4300 AMerICAN. The restaurant’s interior exudes a warm, casual ambiance reminiscent of the great eateries of the Pacific northwest; the outdoor porch features two outdoor bars and a fireplace. Menu stocked with affordable appetizers great for sharing, plus salads, sandwiches, and entrées. Lots of domestics and microbrews, plus an array of martinis including the “Woodstini,” a tasty mix of stoli Orange Vodka, mandarin oranges and raspberries. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Cocktails.

Graydon’s Crossing1223 Plainfield Ne. 616-726-8260 tAverN. an authentic take on the English Pub, with a huge selection of beers on tap and a menu that includes classic English dishes like Fish & Chips, shepherd’s Pie and irish stew, as well as indian specialties like Tandoori Chicken and Tikka Masala. a great casual atmosphere for drinking and dining. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Beer and authentic pub food.

the Green Well924 Cherry Se. 616-808-3566 eCLeCtIC. REVUE’s “Free Market” columnist steven de Polo writes, “Green Well is the best restaurant in GR.” The East hills gastro-pub serves up an ever-changing menu featuring local ingredients, and a wide array of local craft brews and wines. The green refers also to the LEED© certified building and management’s commitment to a small carbon footprint. » SERVING: Lunch

Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Baked local goat cheese, Michigan maple whiskey chicken over risotto.

the Holiday Bar801 5th St. NW, Grand rapids. 616-456-9058 AMerICAN. For 107 years, The holiday bar has been serving its loyal customers great beer and food, with 12 specialty beers of tap and its homemade “Porter” Pulled Pork sandwiches. Fully stocked with pool tables and nine hD flat screens, this dive is the perfect spot for cheap beer and good times.. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Cheap beer.

Harmony Brewing Company1551 Lake Dr. Se (616) 233-0063 BreWPuB. The newest addition to the Grand Rapids brewpub scene features five craft-brewed beers in addition to signature root beer for the kiddos. harmony’s real specialty, however, is a take-out combo that features one of its gourmet wood-fire pizzas and a growler of beer. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza and brews.

HopCat25 Ionia SW. 616-451-4677 tAverN. Rated the 3rd best beer bar on the planet by Beer Advcoate, hopCat’s spin on its food is thus: “it’s the food your Mom would feed you, if your Mom loved beer.” That’s specifically true for hopCat’s beerbar cheese, cheese ale soup and porter braised beef, but mom would also love the hippie wrap (it’s vegetarian), the crack fries (not real crack), and Killer Mac and Cheese. because what mom doesn’t like mac and cheese? » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Widest variety of beers, crack fries.

J Bar20 Monroe NW. 616-356-2000 SteAkS. Grass-fed beef selections and an ample variety of seafood, chops and house specialties. Extensive wine cellar and tastefully upscale ambiance that’s comfortable rather than stuffy. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Choice-cut prime rib, 10-oz. Filet, 14-oz. Top Sirloin.

JD reardon’s Bar & Grill940 Monroe Ave NW. (616) 454-8590 AMerICAN. neighborhood pub offers 15 Michigan beers on tap and more bottled, along with a full menu of handmade appetizers, pizzas, salads, sandwiches and 16 half-pound burgers. nightly drink specials and karaoke on Tuesday night. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Burgers.

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

Maggie’s kitchen636 Bridge St. NW. 616-458-8583 MeXICAN. The storefront restaurant on GR’s west side has quietly built a reputation as one of the best places in town for authentic Mexican food, especially its tacos and breakfast items like huevos a la Mexicana (scrambled eggs with onions and jalapenos). » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: T W Th F Sa Sn. GO THERE FOR: Tex-Mex.

Marie Catrib’s1001 Lake Dr. 616-454-4020 eCLeCtIC. The East hills eatery has one of the most hard-to-categorize menus in West Michigan, but this line from its website begins to do it justice: “a twist of Lebanese, a hint of yooper and yen for unique pastries.” Everything is made from scratch with local ingredients, and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Get there early for lunch, as there is almost always a wait. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Salads, soups and sandwiches.

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

o’toole’s448 Bridge St. 616-742-6095 PuB. This West side pub is equipped with delicious and outrageously topped burgers, as well as an extensive beer selection, and arguably, the best happy hour specials in town. if food is not your passion, this is a prime place to kick off your sunday Funday with its $3 absolut bloody Mary bar. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Gourmet burgers, Absolut Bloody Mary bar.

olive’s restaurant2162 Wealthy St. Se. 616-451-8611 eCLeCtIC. Gaslight Village mainstay for Easties looking to have a cocktail and casual dinner. The menu is surprisingly broad, with innova-tive starters (e.g., napoli fritters, Paella cakes) and diverse entrées like southern meatloaf, braised short ribs and mobu tofu. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: A broad selection.

the Pita House1450 Wealthy Se, 3730 28th Street, 4533 Ivanrest SW (Grandville). 616-454-1171 MeDIterrANeAN. Gyros so big you can club someone with them, the smoothest hummus in town and other Mediterranean fare, including kibbe, kafta and falafel. additional locations on 28th street and Kalamazoo sE. sandwiches are made to order with fresh vegetables and ingredients. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh pita wraps.

radix tavern1420 Lake Dr. Se 616-458-5583 SoutHerN. Radix Tavern provides its diners with delicious southern-styled food made from traditional Michigan ingredients. Using local, seasonal and sustainable products whenever possible, Radix Tavern is sure to delight its visitors with home-styled cooking, selection of beers and wines and vegetarian and vegan options. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays GO THERE FOR: Michigan beers on tap.

red Jet Cafe1431 Plainfield Ave. Ne. 616-719-5500 eCLeCtIC. The funky restaurant in Creston’s old library is the kind of place you’d find in Chicago’s hip neighborhoods, offering non-sequitur menu items that somehow seem to work. seriously, how many other places in town can you find that serve high-end organic coffees, crepes, wood-fired pizzas and artisan baked goods. is it a bistro? is it a coffeehouse? Does it matter? » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Crepes.

reds on the river8 e. Bridge St. 616-863-8181 AMerICAN. This highly acclaimed restaurant in the Rockford area promises no processed foods. Red’s sports a cylindrical fireplace and is known for its incredible views and outdoor dining. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sundays. GO THERE FOR: Steak and Wine.

reserve201 Monroe Ave. NW (616) 855-9463 eCLeCtIC. With 102 wines available by the glass and more than 300 by the bottle, paired with an ever-changing food menu influenced by West Michigan grown foods, Reserve promises diners a unique experience. Cocktails and craft beers add depth to the primarily wine-centered menu. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday GO THERE FOR: Wine and food pairings, charcuterie.

rockwell-republic45 S. Division Ave. 616-551-3563 eCLeCtIC. Menu offerings range from sushi to burgers and everything in between. The cocktail menu runs the gamut from classics like the Manhattan to more modern variations and the beer and wine menus are nothing to sneeze at either. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Specialty cocktails, broad menu, lively atmosphere.

rose’s on reeds Lake550 Lakeside Dr. Se. 616-458-1122 eCLeCtIC. The East Grand Rapids landmark is one of those places that has a different feel in each season. in the summertime, it’s a great spot to hang on the decks and have cocktails and light ap-petizers; when the snow is falling, it’s a warm and cozy spot for a hearty meal and big glass of wine. The menu draws from a multitude of influences including Mediterranean, italian, and Casual american. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Root Chips.

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

San Chez a tapas Bistro38 West Fulton St. 616-774-8272 eCLeCtIC.Using available local products, san Chez a Tapas bistro is a social setting where people can remember the one rule of kindergarten: sharing. Featuring small, delicious dishes, san Chez a Tapas bistro can satiate your desire for variety. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Tapas.

San Chez Cafe38 West Fulton St. 616-774-8272 eCLeCtIC. This comfy venue allows customers to “walk on sunshine” with its windowed-out structure. a hidden secret for breakfast in downtown Grand Rapids, san Chez Cafe promises a great start to any day. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Open 7 Days. GO THERE FOR: Sandwiches.


sChE

DULE

siGh

Ts |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

DINI

NG

PULL UP A CHAIR AND JOIN US .

We are pleased to introduce our exclusive Supper Club program, providing guests with extraordinary rewards every time they dine.

Memberships may be purchased at any of the participating Amway Grand Plaza, JW Marriott, and Downtown Courtyard by Marriott restaurant locations, online at amwaygrand.com/sc, or by calling 616.776.6980.

a premier d ining rewards program

•Buyonedinnerentréeatsix.one.sixorCygnus27andreceiveonecomplimentarydinnerentrée

•20%offentireguestcheckatLumberBaronBar,GardenCourtLounge,GPSports,orCornucopialocated inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel or The BistrolocatedintheDowntownCourtyardbyMarriott

•Earna$20giftcardfromtheAmwayGrandPlazaHotel for each new Supper Club member that you refer

•Andsomuchmore!

SUPPER CLUB


On Our Restaurant Radar:

Licari’s Sicilian Pizza kitchen

Chances are you already know last year was chaotic for couple Gianni and Lisa Licari, having been featured on the Food Network’s “3 Days to Open with Bobby Flay.” The couple opened the only authentic Sicilian restaurant

in Grand Rapids last April with Flay’s help, whose greatest ac-complishment was convincing Gianni’s mother to share several

of her secret recipes. Nearly a year later and the Licari’s kitchen has settled into a north side pizza staple.

Everything is fresh and prepped same day; there are no frozen pre-made ingredients here. Standout antipastas in-clude the Cozze Al Pomodoro, mussels bathed in white wine, tomato and herbs, and Arancini, crispy rice balls filled with

meat and mozzarella with hints of saffron and basil. Numerous pizzas offer rare toppings and combinations not

often thought of in today’s fast chain market, such as prosciutto, salami, artichoke and goat cheese.

I suggest indulging in either the Sfinciuni or Schiacciata upon your first visit. The Sfinciuni is a true Sicilian pizza with a thick crust littered with aged mozzarella cheese and covered in a rustic, sweet tomato sauce; you cannot add toppings to it, nor would you want to. The Schiacciata is stuffed pizza, having a thin crust covering toppings, and is available in four variants. The Bobby is a standout with goat cheese and garlic sautéed mushrooms laced with truffle oil. The Montelepre, named after the Licari family hometown in Sicily, has an herb olive oil sauce and ricotta cheese, crammed with onion, ham and mushroom.

Although a small selection, the pastas have robust and savory flavors. A family heirloom recipe, the Pasta A’ La Chef is a short, twisted strand of corkscrew pasta called gemelli (meaning ‘twins’ in Italian) in a tomato cream sauce with ham, peas and carrots. The Linguini con Salsiccia e Ricotta is a creamy ricotta and tomato sauce served over linguini with a semi-spicy homemade sausage. All house pastas and pizzas are available gluten free.

For those who can’t have enough, the entire menu is available for catering.

tHe BoBBY: a sicilian-style stuffed pizza with goat cheese, garlic sautéed mushrooms and white truffle oil. PhOTO: KiM Kibby

liCari’s siCilian Pizza KitChEn2896 Knapp St. Ste. B, Grand Rapidslicarispizzakitchen.com, (616) 608-6912

by Matt Simpson SiegeltAste this

fOOdie events:

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

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

CheAp eAts:All You Can Eat Pancakes at The Red Geranium Cafe

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


sChE

DULE

siGh

Ts |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

DINI

NG

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

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

201 Monroe Avenue nW doWntoWn grAnd rApidsreservegr.coM 616 855 Wine

Vitale’s of Ada400 Ada Dr. Suite A

Ada, MI 49503(616) 676-5403

vitalesada.com

Vitale’s of Comstock Park3868 West River Dr.

Comstock Park, MI 49321(616) 784-6044

vitalessportsbar.com

Vitale’s of Grand Rapids834 Leonard St. NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49503(616) 458-8368

theoriginalvitales.com

Vitale’s of Hudsonville5779 Balsam Dr.

Hudsonville, MI 49426-1102(616) 662-2244

vitaleshudsonville.com

Vitale’s of Zeeland59 West Washington Ave.

Zeeland, MI 49464(616) 772-5900

vitaleszeeland.com

Locally owned, serving West Michigan our homemade recipes and fresh

ingredients for over 40 years.


SCEnE | SOUndS | SightS SChEdUlE Dining

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

Stella’s Lounge53 Commerce Ave. 616-356-2700 tAverN. The Chicago-style whiskey bar has more than 200 varieties of distilled spirits, old-school video games, a superexcellent jukebox stocked with rock and punk classics, and a menu filled with vegetarian and vegan bar food — and stuffed burgers. Did we mention you can sip cans of PbR, blatz and other clas-sic beers, as well as sangria, out of a mason jar? REVUE’s british ex-pat David smith calls stella’s his favorite bar in the world. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Vegetarian and vegan bar food.

the Score5301 Northland Dr. Ne. 616-301-0600 SPortS BAr. Multi-faceted restaurant and sports bar has a lot to offer, including expansive menu with discount options, happy hour specials, countless big screen and projection TVs broadcasting big games and pay-per-view UFC matches, outdoor beach vol-leyball and live music in the summertime … the list goes on. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Sports Bar Atmosphere.

tavern on the Square100 Ionia Ave. SW. 616-456-7673 eCLeCtIC. The re-fash-ioned former irish pub still has that neighborhood feel, and offers up a unique menu with salads, antipasto, appetizers, a pub burger, and an array of unique “yankee Tapas” like Fish Tacos, Loaded Carnival Fries and the ultimate West side tapas: Pierogies. a hodgepodge to be sure, but fun. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: PBJ Tuna.

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

the Winchester648 Wealthy St. Se. 616-451-4969 eCLeCtIC. Upscale Wealthy street bar and restaurant feels like it was plucked from Chicago’s bucktown or Logan square neighborhoods. a comfortable spot to drink or dine, with an always evolving menu featuring shared plates, salads and inventive sand-wiches. The Cuban Reuben, originally created as something of a joke, remains a (very tasty) staple item. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: DIY Bloody Mary Bar Special, Yucca Fries.

Wolfgang’s restaurant1530 Wealthy St. Se. 616-454-5776 BreAkFASt. The bustling Eastown breakfast spot is home to some of the

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

laKEshorE

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

Bil-Mar restaurant1223 S. Harbor St., Holland. 616-842-5920 AMerICAN. a destination restaurant for locals and tourists for more than 60 years. Dazzling sunsets and an all-american menu featuring fresh seafood and hand-cut steaks. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Lake perch, lobster strudel, prime rib.

Blue House Bistro220 W. 8th Street, Holland. 616-355-1994 AMerICAN. Chef-owned boutique bistro located in downtown holland, with an extensive menu featuring small plates, sandwiches, soups, salads, pizza, desserts, dine-in, take-out, delivery catering, beer and wine to-go. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: Tu–Sun. GO THERE FOR: Seafood gumbo, Saturday and Sunday brunch.

Cityvu Bistro61 east 7th Street, Holland. 616-796-2114 AMerICAN. Located atop CityFlats hotel in downtown holland, CityVu bistro offers unique breakfast creations, an array of flat-bread dinners, and small plates. Full bar with extensive wine list and great views of holland. hours of operation change with the seasons. » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN: Open 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Flatbreads.

everyday People Cafe11 Center St., Douglas. 269-857-4240 AMerICAN. REVUE Publisher brian Edwards calls Everyday People Café his favorite restaurant along the lakeshore. The atmosphere is casual and upbeat, the staff knows its stuff about wine and food, and the seasonal menu is filled with meticulously pre-pared, eclectic comfort food like butternut squash Risotto, braised Lamb shank and ahi Tuna. a great wine list and tremendous desserts. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Gorgonzola Pork Chop, Greek Salad with Grandma Gigi’s Dressing (Edwards).

Fricano’s Pizza tavern1400 Fulton Ave., Grand Haven. 616-842-8640 ItALIAN. Claims to be the first pizzeria in Michigan, but customers care less about its longevity than the amazingly crispy thin crust and simple ingredients atop its much-lauded pies. Four other locations around West Mi, including Comstock Park, Muskegon, holland and Kalamazoo. » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Pizza.

kirby House2 Washington, Grand Haven. 616-846-3299 AMerICAN. The Grill Room doesn’t pretend to be anything other than

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

Mia & Grace1133 3rd St., Muskegon. 231-725-9500 AMerICAN. Calls itself a bakery and bistro, but that’s too limiting to describe the creativity of Mia & Grace’s menu. The farm-to-table eatery in downtown Muskegon is casual and comfortable and serves lots of one-of-a-kind items like the Pork belly Reuben or the Duck Pb&J (duck confit, carmelized onions, cashew-peanut butter, green pepper jelly, anadama bread). » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch OPEN ON: Closed on Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Salads, Soups, Creme Brulee.

New Holland Brewing Company66 e. 8th St., Holland. 616-355-6422 BreWPuB. One of West Mi’s premier microbreweries serves up better than average pub grub, including the Tarheel barbecue Pulled Pork, Grilled Portobello and The Treehugger, which is billed as “a vegetar-ian sandwich utopia.” » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Mad Hatter IPA, Dragon’s Milk.

Salt of the earth114 east Main St., Fennville. 269-561-7258 AMerICAN. salt of the Earth is a farm-to-table-inspired restaurant, bar, and bakery located in the heart of sW Michigan farm country in Fennville. Focuses on fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients whenever possible. also serves up live music on weekends. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: House made rustic cuisine.

Saugatuck Brewing Company2948 Blue Star Highway. 269-857-7222 BreWPuB. Enjoy a traditional irish-style pub that features quality beer, wine, food and service. Try one of 12 unique brews that are served in the pub and bottled and distributed throughout the Midwest. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Beer in a family friendly pub environment.

vitale’s of Zeeland59 W. Washington St. (616) 772-5900 ItALIAN. This family owned restaurant specializes in italian dining, but also has a full menu including Mexican and american specialties. Family friendly atmosphere with newly remodeled dining, and an expanded sports bar with big screen TVs. happy hour specials, live music every saturday and has been voted best Pizza seven years in a row by the Grand Rapids Press. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. Go tHere For: Pizza.

KalaMazoo/battlE CrEEK

Arcadia Brewing Co. 103 Michigan Ave., Battle Creek. 269-963-9520 BreWPuB. you’ll find some of the usual suspects on the battle Creek brewpub’s menu, including wood-fired pizzas and some of the best barbecue in the region. but you’ll also find some delightful surprises — Osso bucco in a brewpub?! — on the menu, courtesy of award-winning Chef sean Kelly. »

SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Handcrafted ales and barbecue.

Bell’s eccentric Cafe355 e. kalamazoo Ave. 269-382-2332 BreWPuB. Eccentric Café’s regular menu of appetizers, sandwiches, sides and salads — plus the daily soups and specials — exists for a simple and important purpose: to complement the Kalamazoo microbrewery’s award-winning beers. Eat up while you drink up. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Beer.

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

Fieldstone Grille3970 W. Centre St., Portage. 269-321-8480 AMerICAN. Lodge-retreat atmosphere overlooking the Moors Golf Club natural wetlands. The “field-to-plate” menu features burg-ers, pizzas, steaks and some eclectic items like quail. Try the FsG chips, a combination of potato, beet and sweet potato chips. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Blue Burger, Almond Crusted Walleye, FSG Chips.

Food Dance401 e. Michigan Ave., kalamazoo. 269-382-1888 AMerICAN. an eclectic american menu that reflects ownership’s fixation on “finding honest-to-goodness fruits, vegetables, meat and eggs that come from the farm, not the factory.” Lots of unique choices, for breakfast (gingerbread pancakes), lunch (crab cake sandwich) and dinner (beer roasted chicken). » SERVING: Breakfast Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Fresh Local Foods.

old Burdicks Bar & Grill100 W. Michigan Ave. (269) 226-3192 AMerICAN. Old burdick’s bar & Grill features tasty sandwiches, burgers, salads and entrees, as well as a great selection of cock-tails, wines and beers. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner. OPEN: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: The Old Burdick Burger.

olde Peninsula200 e. Michigan Ave., kalamazoo 269-343-2739 BreWPuB. Downtown brewpub serves up the expected (e.g., steaks, ribs), the authentic (e.g., London broil) and some pleasant surprises (e.g., extensive vegetarian offerings, italian food). Offers a range of beers brewed on the premises and served on tap, plus a full bar. Check out the seasonal porters on tap right now, including the Vanilla Porter (5.5% abV) and stout Chocula (5.25% abV). » SERVING: Dinner OPEN ON: 7 days. GO THERE FOR: Beer-B-Que Ribs, London Broil.

union Cabaret & Grille125 S. Burdick St., kalamazoo. 269-384-6756 AMerICAN. a partnership with Western Michigan University, Union features eclectic food and cocktails, plus live jazz music performed by WMU faculty and students. » SERVING: Lunch Dinner OPEN ON: Closed Sunday. GO THERE FOR: Portabella Fries, Bloody Maries with infused vodkas. n

dining


sChE

DULE

siGh

Ts |

sOU

nDs

| s

CEnE

DINI

NG

MONDAY - THURSDAY 4PM - 7PM1/2 OFF ALL WINE1/2 OFF ALL MARTINIS1/2 OFF ALL BEER 1/2 OFF ALL COCKTAILS

*with food purchase

H A P P Y H O U R

HA

PP

Y H

OU

R

HA

PP

Y H

OU

R

H A P P Y H O U R

HAPPY HOUR 4-6 P.M. • GREAT MI TAP SELECTION • FULL BAR & WINE LISTOPEN FOR DINNER MONDAY - SATURDAY

1420 LAKE DR. SE, EASTOWN • (616) 458-5583 • RADIXTAVERN.COM

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

For more information on all classes offered each month, or to register, visit our website at www.kissingrockkitchens.com or call (616) 987-9597 -- Carpe Culina!

Kissing Rock Kitchens

Chef Tina Marie

COOKING WITH YOUR VALENTINEFeb. 9 @ Kissing Rock Kitchens - 6pm / $50Valentine’s Dinner of Roasted Red Pepper Bisque, Pear and Pomegranate Salad, Pecan Crusted Chicken with Frangelico Cream Sauce, and Rum Truffl es and Whoopee Pies.

COOKING WITH YOUR VALENTINEFeb. 14 @ Kissing Rock Kitchens - 6pm / $50Mozzarella stuffed Arancini and Tomato-Leek Timbales as antipasti, Minted Green Risotto, Osso Bucco with Gremolata, Fresh Tuscan Round Loaf and Zabaglione for dessert.

DINNER IN BURGUNDYFeb. 20 @ Kissing Rock Kitchens - 5:30pm / $50French cheeses and fresh baguettes. Gougères and Olives, Frisèe and Apple Salad with Goat Cheese Medallions, Beef Bourguignonne, Boiled Potatoes with Parsley. (extended class time)

COOCOOCOCOOOCOCO KINKINKINKINKKINKKKK G WG WG WG WWG WITHITHITHITHIT YOYOYOYOYOUR UR URUR VALVALVAALALENTENTENTENTINEINEINEINENEFeb. 14 @ K@ K@ K@ K@ K@ issssssissssinginginginingingi Ro RoRoRo Rocck ck ck c KitKitKitchechchecheeh ns ns nns s - 6pm / $50MozMozoMozoMooM zarazararellelllllellla sa sa sa sa stuftufuftufuffedfedfedfedfedddd Ar ArArArancancancaaanciniinininn an an anand Td Td Td TTomaomaomaomao to-to-to-tto LeeLeeLeeLee k k k kTimTimTimTTimmbalbalbalballes eseses eses essesssss asas as a antantantantipaipaipaipapapapaaaastististitit , M, M, M, M, MM, intintintntn ed eded ede GreGGreGreGreeen en en enn RisRisRissottottttottotto, o, o, o, o OssOssOssOssOssso o oo BucBucBucBucBucBucB cB co coco cococo witwitwitwitwitwwitwwwith Gh Gh Gh Ghh remremrememmmolaolaolaolaaaol ta,ta,ta,ta,a,tataa Fr FrFrFr FrF eshesheshsh Tu TuTTuTuscascascascan Rn Rn Rn Rn RRounounounounu d Ld Ld Ld LLoafoafoafoafafaaoafaff anandandandanddanaaaanaaaaaa Za Za Za ZaZaabagbagbagbabagbagagbagbb liolioliolioliolioooone ne ne ne ne en forforforooorr de dededessessessessesss rtrtrt.trt.

DINDINDIDINDINDINDDINDDD NERNERNERERRERNERNERRNEERRR IN IN IN ININININN BU BU BUBUBUBB URGURRGRGURGRGURR NDYNDYNDYYNDYYFeb. 20 @ K@ K@ K@ K@ KK@ K@ Kississississississsingingingngingnging Ro Ro RoRoRoRooRoR ck ck ck ck ck KitKitKitchechchcheens nsns - 5:30pm / $50FreFreFreFreFreFrereeeeenchnchnchnnchncnchnchnnn ch ch ccch chc eeseeseeseeeseeeeseeeeeee es es esesese andandandandan fr frfreshesheshshs bababababagueguegueguegu ttettettetteees. s. ss GouGouGouGouGougèrgègèggè es eses se andandandand OliOliOliOliOliOliOliOO vesvesvesvesvessvesveveeee , F, F F F, F, F, Frisrisrisrisrisr èeèe èèe èee andandand Ap Ap Applepleplee SaSaSaSaaladladladd wiw wiw th thth th GoGoGoaGoaGo t Ct Ct Ct Cheeheeeeeee se sese MedMedMedMeMedMededallallallallllal ionionionionononnonons, s,s, ss BeeBeeBeeBeeeB f Bf Bf Bourourourguiguiguiuiuiguiuignognognognognonnennnennenn , B, B, B, Boiloiloioioi eed edd PototPotPo atoatatoooeses ewitwitwwitwitwitww h Ph Ph PPPPh Ph h Parsarsarsaaaarsaarsrs eyeyeyeeyleyleey. (. (. . (. (((extextexte tendendendded ed ed dd claclaclaclass ssssss ss timtimmme)e)e)e)


sCEnE | sOUnDs | siGhTs sChEDULE DINING


Friday

2.01Bell’s eccentric Cafe brown bird Billy’s Lounge Rick Chyme, nixonCalvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the shrewCancun Connection Bar and Grill Three-Piece bandCzar’s 505 Jamaica Me CrazyDevos Performance Hall GR symphony Presents hough Plays Lisztthe DAAC Momcat, Rooster illusion, Ghosts of GuyanaDog Story theater i Went Looking for the Meaning of Life and all i Got Was This Lousy T-shirtDowntown Muskegon snowfestDr. Grins Dan CumminsFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGallery uptown, Grand Haven Winter art FestivalGr Civic theatre The heart is a Lonely hunterGrAM Friday nights at GRaM, Graphic Design: in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicGrCC Spectrum theater a steady RainHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedHope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: an Exhibition in Printmakingkzoo Civic theatre sherlock holmes: the Final adventurekzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamskzoo State theater ana Popovic wsg Thirsty Perch bandkellogg Arena Daughtry and Three Doors Downknickerbocker theater hitchcock

LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMalarky’s Tony ReynoldsMiler Auditorium Les MiserablesMocha-N-Music Dale EvenhouseMulligan’s Pub Lo MobbMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibitionold Dog tavern ben Daniels bandthe orbit room Umphrey’s McGeePerforming Arts Center, GvSu Allendale Campus Grand Valley Opera Theatre presents ‘The Threepenny Opera’Pyramid Scheme Frontier Ruckus Release showriviera theatre harmonyFest Chili and homebrew beer Cookoff Fundraiser, Vagabond OperaSchuler Books (28th St) nik ThomasmaShakespeare’s Lower Level, kzoo salsa Friday featuring DJ Tropicz

tip top Deluxe nikki hill with Delilah DeWylde and the Lost boysuICA 2013 Oscar shorts, Utopia/Dystopia Exhibition

saturday

2.02the 411 Club The Whores of babylonthe B.o.B. The TurnipsBell’s eccentric Cafe Whitey Morgan & The 78’sBilly’s Lounge bob Marley birthday bash Tour 2013Blackhawk Bar and Grill it’s about TymeCalvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the shrewCancun Connection Bar and Grill Three-Piece band

Devos Performance Hall GR symphony Presents hough Plays Lisztthe DAAC arson Our savior, Of Virtue, The after EffectDog Story theater 24 hour TheaterDowntown Battle Creek Festivus 2013Dr. Grins Dan CumminsFounders Brewing The Pinstripes with Green Room Rockers, Eric KehoeFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumont; animal adventures: surviving in the WildGr Civic theatre The heart is a Lonely hunterGrAM Graphic Design: in ProductionGvSu Grand river room Last Laker standingHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedHope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: an Exhibition in Printmakingthe Intersection Mega 80skzoo Civic theatre sherlock holmes: the Final adventurekzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsknickerbocker theater hitchcockL.C. Walker Arena, Muskegon ice skating at L.C. Walker arenaLadies Literary Club River City improvLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionLemonjello’s The skies Revolt, adversary, and all WaveMalarky’s Jake stevens

Miler Auditorium Les MiserablesMulligan’s Pub bail bondsman and nobody’s FavoriteMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibitionold Dog tavern Duffield Caron ProjectPapa Pete’s Desmond JonesPerforming Arts Center, GvSu Allendale Campus Grand Valley Opera Theatre presents ‘The Threepenny Opera’Pyramid Scheme The bergamotrockford High School Rogue River artists “Love affair with art”Shakespeare’s Lower Level, kzoo First annual MarleymasSt. Cecilia Music Center Music of the night: a benefit Jazz Concert for The Reed Family Music scholarshipuICA Utopia/Dystopia West Side Inn Forget the Times

sunday

2.03Billy’s Lounge Revival 80s night with DJ hustlahFounders Brewing GR Jazz OrchestraFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGr Civic theatre The heart is a Lonely hunterGrAM Classical Concert series, Graphic Design: in Production

Holland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedHope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: an Exhibition in Printmakingkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamskirby House Rich burkholderLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMcFadden’s restaurant and Saloon Live Celtic MusicMiler Auditorium Les Miserables Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile ExhibitionPerforming Arts Center, GvSu Allendale Campus Guest artist series: sharon Leventhal, violin, and Paulina Zamora, pianoSaugatuck Center for the Arts sky hempy Keyboard series: Mark ValentiSchuler Books (28th St) Opera Talk with Maestro Robert LyalluICA Utopia/Dystopia

Monday

2.04Billy’s Lounge bassbinFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of Magic

the schedulegEt sChEdulEd! E-mail your info to [email protected] add your events into our calendar at revuewm.com.

the avett brothers

Best Bet: IndieiF you asK bluEgrass galvanizing brothErs Scott and Seth Avett, folksy, roots rock straight from down home in the delta ain’t dead. If anything, it’s just been resting, biding its time for the appropriate mixture of honky tonk and punk savior to rise up and breathe new vapor into it. Enter the aforementioned Avetts, a fraternal duo heading up the eponymous three-piece responsible for injecting the too-frequently missing banjo twang into our modern indie melodic consciousness. Accompanied by Bob Crawford on stand-up bass, The Avett Brothers are poised to sweep their individual, North Carolinian-saturated brand

of delta blues rock to West Michigan’s own Delta, for a night sure to leave you with the taste of rich whiskey and stout tobacco in your mouth, with or without any actual imbibing. Make certain those old stiff line-dancing boots are still in peak condition – knowing these folks, you just might end up moshing in them, too. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

thE avEtt brothErsThe DeltaPlex Arena, Grand RapidsFeb. 10, 7 p.m. $27.50, $37.50, $47.50deltaplex.com, (616) 364-9000


SCHeDuLesCEnE | sOUnDs | siGhTs | DininG

Holland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedHope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: an Exhibition in PrintmakingLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibitionold Dog tavern The Elixer Fixer bartending Classthe Station beginner ballet for adultsuICA Utopia/Dystopia Exhibition

tuEsday

2.05Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with GeorgiaDimnent Chapel hope College Jazz ConcertFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design: in ProductionGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of Magic

Holland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedHope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: an Exhibition in Printmakingkzoo Institute of Arts artbreak: The Gift: al LaVergne’s nigerian Project, Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMadcap Coffee Cozy CruiseMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibitionold Dog tavern Open Mic nightPyramid Scheme action itemthe Station belly Dance ClassuICA Utopia/Dystopia

WEdnEsday

2.06Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line DancingBar Divani Wine socialBilly’s Lounge nate holleyCook-DeWitt Center, GvSu Allendale Campus arts at noon series: Grand Valley WindsCurragh Irish Pub Jake stevensFoundry Hall song swap

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in ProductionGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedHope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: an Exhibition in Printmakingkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionLemonjello’s Open Mic nightthe Livery Team TriviaMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibition, art history TalkPapa Pete’s DeadbeatsuICA Utopia/Dystopia Exhibition

thursday

2.07Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with Eric

Bell’s eccentric Cafe stray birdsBilly’s Lounge soul GloCalvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the shrewCygnus 27 RED Vodka PartyDr. Grins shane MaussFounders Brewing Gallo with special guests CabildoFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in ProductionGr Public Library - Main Reading the Great LakesGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of Magicthe Hideout Brewing Company Team TriviaHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedHope College’s De Pree Gallery Proof: an Exhibition in Printmakingkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamskirby House Rich burkholderknickerbocker theater Visiting Writers series: shane bookyo and Mat JohnsonLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibition

Master Arts theatre Forever PlaidMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile Exhibitionone trick Pony Grill & taproom acoustic stew with Josh Rosethe orbit room CandleboxPapa Pete’s Latin salsaPyramid Scheme PassalacquaSaugatuck Center for the Arts Real to Reel Cinema series: The invisible WarSchuler Books (Alpine) Richard and Kathy Verlander book signingShakespeare’s Lower Level, kzoo Comedy Open Mic nightSt. Cecilia Music Center sCMC Chamber Music society of Lincoln Center series Concert: Grand statementsuICA Utopia/Dystopia ExhibitionWilliams theatre, WMu Communicating Doors

Friday

2.08the 411 Club The Mike hard showAlaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line DancingBethlehem Lutheran Church MaJiC Concert series - Minsoo sohnCalvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the shrewCancun Connection Bar and Grill Live Country MusicDevos Performance Hall Opera GR Presents Don GiovanniDog Story theater The importance of being EarnestDowntown St. Joe Magical ice FestivalDr. Grins shane MaussFarmers Alley theatre, kzoo The Whipping ManForest Hills Fine Arts Center Los LobosFour Winds Casino Rick springfieldFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Friday nights at GRaM, Graphic Design - in ProductionGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Civic theatre sherlock holmes: the Final adventurekzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adams

kzoo State theater Paula PoundstoneLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibitionthe Livery The Joshua Davis bandMalarky’s Kevin MurphyMaster Arts theatre Forever PlaidMexicains Sans Frontieres Orpheum bell, Lac La belleMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Postcard salon Exhibition, Textile ExhibitionNew Holland Brewing Delilah DeWylde and the Lost boysold Dog tavern hired hands, Ziggy and the bitchesthe orbit room big Gigantic Pyramid Scheme Talib Kweli wsg Mama sol, a.b.!Schuler Books (28th St) briar RabbituICA Utopia/Dystopia, beware of Mr. bakervan Singel Fine Arts Center 3 Redneck TenorsWilliams theatre, WMu Communicating Doors

saturday

2.09the 411 Club Joe Wang and the Test PilotsBell’s eccentric Cafe Greensky bluegrassBlackhawk Bar and Grill Mardi Gras PartyCalvin College Gezon Auditorium Taming of the shrewCalvin College, Bytwerk theater indie Game: The MovieCancun Connection Bar and Grill Live Country MusicCannonsburg Ski & ride Area GR (sub)Urban adventure Race - Winter EditionDevos Performance Hall Opera GR Presents Don GiovanniDog Story theater The importance of being EarnestDowntown St. Joe Magical ice FestivalDr. Grins shane MaussFirst Baptist Church of kzoo all Ears Theatre and arts Council of Greater Kzoo present sleeping beautyFounders Brewing The Mother hips and Magic boxFrauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Mozart and Friends presented by the West Michigan symphony

sChEdulE

amore trattoria: Dessert course for “Cool brews. hot Eats.” featuring Founders breakfast stout with a hand made

chocolate truffle rolled in toffee

Best Bet: Beergrand raPids has rEaChEd a Point WhErE WE Can start dEPorting non-MiCroWbrEW lovErs. We’ve already been crowned Beer City USA, for crying out loud, and this town (hell, this state) is not stopping when it comes to microbrew production. Experience Grand Rapids recognizes this with its first-ever Cool Brews. Hot Eats event. Centered around the sold-out Eighth Annual Winter Beer Festival and the Second Annual Grand Rapids Beer Week (Feb. 18–23), Experience GR teams up with more than 38 area restaurants to create beer-centered menus. These menus include everything from beer pairings to food that has beer as a primary ingredient. Get to know the brews you already love in a more intimate way or take this unique opportunity to try new ones. Reported by Lindsay Patton-Carson

Cool brEWs. hot EatsDowntown Grand RapidsFeb. 18–March 2Menu prices vary experiencegr.com


Dini

nG |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

s |

sCE

nE

SCHe

DuLe

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, GRaM behind the scenesGr Public Library - Main Poetry slamGr Public Museum Titanic: The artifact ExhibitionHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibitionthe Livery Leo nocentelli & Marcus RobinsonMalarky’s Gabiral JamesMaster Arts theatre Forever Plaid

Miller Auditorium Gold Company 35th anniversaryMulligan’s Pub MOTOMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibitionthe Muze Rescued from RehabPapa Pete’s Latin salsaPyramid Scheme The soil and The sunSara Hardy Parking Lot Traverse City Winter Microbrew & Music Festival Seven Steps up Ruth & Max bloomquist band Shakespeare’s Lower Level, kzoo Double shot of Rockin’ soul bluestip top Deluxe The hangdog hearts, black Cat bone, Uncle Don, Lou shields & Zack GodiuICA Utopia/Dystopia

van Andel Arena Journey with Pat benatar, neil Giraldo, and Loverboy Wellspring theater Fontana JaZZ: Rudresh Mahanthappa QuartetWest Side Inn Crackjaw

sunday

2.10Billy’s Lounge Revival ‘80s Dance nightDeltaPlex Arena The avett brothersDog Story theater The importance of being Earnest, bard-To-GoDowntown St. Joe Magical ice FestivalFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of

suzanne vega

Best Bet: FolkWhat a rEtro Month this FEbruary is. Between the reemergence of matchbox twenty and now songstress Suzanne Vega’s upcoming performance at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, we’re stumbling blindly through a foggy bliss of never-ending nostalgia. This kind of repeti-tiousness usually only occurs on the second of February, but hey, who’s going to sneer at a whole month of pitch-perfect musical remembrances? Certainly not the aforementioned Vega, a prolific folk-rock revolutionary who has been churn-

ing out politically charged and self-aware hits since 1987’s mega single, “Luka.” Armed with nothing but a guitar and lush set of pipes, Vega is often credited as taking the reins in the late ‘80s folk revival movement, joining contemporaries like The Indigo Girls and Tracy Chapman to inject some lady power into the then-hair-metal dominated rock scene. Accompanied by modern folkster Gerry Leonard, this show is sure to leave fans of Vega’s, both new and established, swooning for more. Great job, shortest month; keep repeating yourself. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

suzannE vEga wsg gerry leonardKzoo Valley Community College Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. / $20bookstore.kvcc.edu, (269) 488-4476

PAT MCGEE WSG LIZ LONGLEY

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

FEBRUARY 23 8:00PM

RUTH & MAX BLOOMQUIST BANDFEBRUARY 9 8:00PM



sChEdulEhanneke beaumont, Lecture: art and the PsycheGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Classical Concert seriesHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMcFadden’s restaurant and Saloon Live Celtic MusicMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hungarian Filmold Dog tavern Double strungSalt of the earth Fingerstyle bluesuICA Utopia/Dystopia, The blue Kitevan Andel Arena Jeff Dunham: Disorderly Conduct Tour

Monday

2.11Bekins Cooking School, Grand Haven Cooking Class: Valentine’s Day DinnerBilly’s Lounge bassbinDog Story theater Want Want Lovely PlayFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibitionold Dog tavern The Elixer Fixer bartending Class, Old Dog Comedy showPyramid Scheme speck Mountain wsg Tiger Waves

tuEsday

2.12Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with GeorgiaArena District, Gr Mardi Gras Celebration Cook-DeWitt Center, Allendale Campus GVsU Writers series: Faculty Readings by Patricia Clark and Chris haven

Dog Story theater Want Want Lovely PlayDowntown Saugatuck Mardi Gras ParadeFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design: in ProductionGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts aRTbreak : The highwaymen Florida’s Outsider artists, Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibitionold Dog tavern Open Mic nightPyramid Scheme Erin McKeownthe Station belly Dance ClassuICA The Powerbroker: Whitney young’s Fight for Civil Rights

WEdnEsday

2.13Alaskan Pipeline Line DancingBar Divani Wine socialCalvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center artist series: The King’s singersDevos Place 68th annual GR boat showthe DAAC Three Cents short, Kastanza, The Cardboard swords & FultonFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design: in ProductionGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts art League Lecture by Dr. Matthew Welch, aRTbreak : The highwaymen Florida’s Outsider artists, Photographs by ansel adamskellogg Arena shinedown, Three Days Grace, P.O.D.LaFontsee Galleries Go Figure Exhibitionthe Livery Team TriviaMiller Auditorium, kzoo Matchbox Twenty wsg Phillip Phillips

Muskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibitionold Dog tavern alison Wonderland with David Llyod and steven Lee PeschSalt of the earth Valentine Love FestSchuler Books (Alpine) songwriter’s alliance

thursday

2.14Alaskan Pipeline Karaoke with EricBell’s eccentric Cafe The Rachael Davis bandCalvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center Upright Citizens brigadeDr. Grins Juston McKinneyFamily Fare: Spartan Culinary Classroom Romantic Dinner for Two: hands-on Cooking Class with Wine TastingFounders Brewing The Pimps of JoytimeFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design: in ProductionGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of Magicthe Hideout Brewing Company Team TriviaHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts Up Close: a Different Gaze: artists Crossing the Color Line, Photographs by ansel adamskzoo valley Community College Kathleen McGookeykirby House Rich burkholderLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMaster Arts theatre Forever PlaidMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibition, native american Film Lectureold Dog tavern singing Valentine Pinup GirlsPapa Pete’s Latin salsaPeter Martin Wege theatre GR ballet Company Program 3Pyramid Scheme sun Tzu Cadre, Phillies blunt wsg The Wisemen

Sportsman’s Bar and Grille The Melon showuICA Down and Dirty Date night

Friday

2.15411 Club Paul Collins’ beat, nobody’s Favorite, and boss MustangsAlaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line DancingAllendale Civic theater Mama Won’t Fly

Billy’s Lounge Rocket 8Blackhawk Bar and Grill Journey Tribute bandCalvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center saO Film: LincolnCancun Connection Bar and Grill Pop and soul Cover bandChamber Bar Delilah DeWylde and the Lost boysDog Story theater stark Turn Players Present 10 Minute Plays Dr. Grins Juston McKinneyFour Winds Casino Cracker

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Friday nights at GRaM, Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and MayhemHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedthe Intersection Mega 80skzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adams

it’s 3 a.M., you Must bE lonEly. You wanna push stuff around. You know what you need? No, not that ninth shot of whiskey from the bottom of a steel-stained flask. Why don’t you shelve the booze and help yourself to some matchbox twenty tickets instead? Yes, that’s right: the same matchbox twenty (don’t let the very grown-up spelling of the number 20 fool you) that put out hit after hit while you were still in braces. Think of all the eighth grade dance memories set to flood back! (Well, maybe not the part when you peed your pants after your crush kinda smiled at you.) Even better, joining Rob and the rest of the matchbox lads onstage is none other than Phillip Phillips, “American Idol” veteran and everybody’s new favorite “Home” boy. (See what we did there? Hilarious.) Get ready to rock out with your, well, reasonably priced low-sugar cocktails out. In fact, maybe you better smuggle in that flask, just in case. Nothing enhances ‘90s adult contemporary quite like reminiscing about spiking the punch bowl. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

For a chance to win tickets to see matchbox twenty, visit our contest page at revuewm.com.

MatChbox tWEnty wsg Phillip PhillipsMiller Auditorium, KalamazooFeb. 13, 7:30 p.m.$38–$78millerauditorium.com, (269) 387-2300

matchbox twenty

Best Bet: Rock


Dini

nG |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

s |

sCE

nE

SCHe

DuLe


kzoo State theater Eddie shaw and John Primerkzoo valley Museum Dixon’s Violinknickerbocker theater ViDa Guitar QuartetLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionMalarky’s Jake stevensMiller Auditorium Kathleen MadiganMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionthe New vic theatre, kzoo same Time, next yearold Dog tavern Fauxgrass Musicradisson Plaza, kzoo Cooper’s Glen Music Festival

riviera theatre nora Jane struthers & the Party LineSaugatuck Brewing Company “Crafts and Courses” beer/Food PairingSchuler Books (28th St) Genna and Jesse

saturday

2.16the 411 Club Comedy showcaseAllendale Civic theater Mama Won’t Flythe B.o.B. brian Randall bandBell’s eccentric Cafe Potato MoonBilly’s Lounge Damon Fowler

Blackhawk Bar and Grill Montage bandCancun Connection Bar and Grill Pop and soul Cover bandDevos Performance Hall GR symphony Presents symphony with soul the DAAC Three Cents short, Kastanza, The Cardboard swords, and FultonDog Story theater stark Turn Players Present 10 Minute Plays Dr. Grins Juston McKinneyFounders Brewing Elephant Revival with birds of ChicagoFrederik Meijer Gardens Gallery Walk/Poetry Class: a Poet’s Perspective, Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumont

Fricano’s, Muskegon Muskegon Polar PlungeGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGrand river room, GvSu Last Laker standing Finals Holland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedthe Intersection Van halentine’s Day with Panamakzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamskingman Museum, Battle Creek science Experiment saturdayLadies Literary Club River City improvLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionLittle river Casino Clint blackMalarky’s Jake stevensMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionodd Side Ales Delilah DeWylde and the Lost boysold Dog tavern Duffield Caron Project, Chuck Whiting and his Rowdy FriendsPapa Pete’s Latin salsaPark theater Ekoostik hookahradisson Plaza, kzoo Cooper’s Glen Music Festival rivertown Sports Roller Derby Shakespeare’s Lower Level, kzoo Crazy 80s PartySpring Lake Central Park Rotary snow JamSt. Cecilia Music Center - royce Auditorium CaRE ballet - sleeping beautytip top Deluxe The Paul Collins beat and The boss MustangsuICA Live Coverage 2013van Andel Arena Luke bryan: The Dirt Road Diaries TourWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

sunday

2.17Allendale Civic theater Mama Won’t FlyDog Story theater stark Turn Players Present 10 Minute Plays Founders Brewing GR Jazz OrchestraFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumont

GrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Classical Concert series, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGr Public Library - Main Tase of soul sundayHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamskirby House Rich burkholderLaFontsee Galleries Go Figure ExhibitionLouis Armstrong theatre, Allendale Campus GVsU Choral ConcertMcFadden’s restaurant and Saloon Live Celtic MusicMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionold Dog tavern Double strungPeter Martin Wege theatre GR ballet Company Program 3Pyramid Scheme The Last Vampyre On Earth PremiereSalt of the earth Live Folk MusicSaugatuck Center for the Arts sky hempy Keyboard series: Ellen RoweWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

Monday

2.18Calvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center Pop Culture series: Kevin schutDog Story theater no Outlet improv Presents audience interactive improv ComedyDowntown Gr GR beer Week, Cool brews. hot Eats.Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith ExhibitionQuinn and tuite’s The Kreelersthe Station beginner ballet for adultsWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

tuEsday

2.19Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with GeorgiaDog Story theater no Outlet improv Presents audience interactive improv ComedyDowntown Gr GR beer Week, Cool brews. hot Eats.Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumont, Experience beerGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts aRTbreak : The Eloquent Light with David Curl, Photographs by ansel adamsknickerbocker theater Great Performance series: La Theatre WorksMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionold Dog tavern Open Mic nightPyramid Scheme Outasight, The Ready setthe Station belly Dance ClassuICA intro Pottery Class, Open Projector nightthe upstairs Lounge, Battle Creek best of the West- Wine TastingWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

WEdnEsday

2.20Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line DancingBar Divani Wine socialDowntown Gr GR beer Week, Cool brews. hot Eats.Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and MayhemHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo valley Community College suzanne Vega and Gerry Leonardkzoo Institute of Arts ansel adams

sChEdulE

ConFEssion: For about 20 MinutEs, I really thought I was assigned to write about Los Lonely Boys. Not only have I betrayed my age, but also insulted the creativity and longevity of Los Lobos. Indeed, Los Lobos were responsible for one of the biggest hits of my early childhood, “La Bamba,” and much to my surprise have continued to keep a pop cultural toe in the Tex-Mex, folk, country and R&B worlds. It seems appropriate, then, that a band whose name translates to “the wolves” would sport such a diverse and eclectic musical diet, delivered with the wild ferocity of a pack not ready to turn in its forest running shoes just yet. Join these remarkable melodic animals in Grand Rapids’ own Forest Hills Fine Arts Center for an evening sure to encompass more riveting rock than one singular ‘80s hit. Reported by Emma Kat Richardson

Best Bet: Eclectic

los lobos

los lobosForest Hills Fine Arts Center, Grand RapidsFeb. 8, 7:30 p.m.$32, $34, $38fhfineartscenter.com, (616) 493-8966


Dini

nG |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

s |

sCE

nE

SCHe

DuLe


knickerbocker theater Pride and PrejudiceLadies Literary Club Wild bellethe Livery Team TriviaMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionold Dog tavern steven Lee Peschteazers Bar and Grille KaraokeuICA intro Jewelry Design ClassWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

thursday

2.21Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with EricDr. Grins Kevin PollakDowntown Gr GR beer Week, Cool brews. hot Eats.Founders Brewing Oreo JonesFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGr Public Library - Main Civil Rights book Talk, City Within a CityGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and MayhemHideout Brewing Team TriviaHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedIntersection Testament wsg Overkill, Flotsam and Jetsamkzoo Institute of Arts Gallery Talk: Get the Picture: by the sea, Up Close: a Different Gaze: artists Crossing the Color Line, Photographs by ansel adamskirby House Rich burkholderMulligan’s Pub Fine Fine TitansMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Discussionone trick Pony Grill & taproom acoustic stew with Mi Mark and aardvark ConspiracyPapa Pete’s Latin salsaPyramid Scheme inflatable best FriendShakespeare’s Lower Level Comedy Open Mic nightSportsman’s Bar and Grille The Melon showSt. Cecilia Music Center Local spins Live ii with The Crane Wives and Delilah DeWylde and the Lost boys

tip top Deluxe Deadstring brothers, nathan Kalish & the Wildfire and Dutch henryWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

Friday

2.22the 411 Club Out of Favor boysAlaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line DancingBell’s eccentric Cafe head for the hillsBilly’s brewer’s Guild Party feat. The Veloras, Cavepeople, and DJ Dr. JoelBlackhawk Bar Combat CorduroyCancun Connection Bar and Grill Live RockDevos Performance Hall GR symphony Presents an american in ParisDog Story theater Working for a Living: Two One act PlaysDowntown Gr GR beer Week, Cool brews. hot Eats.Dr. Grins Kevin PollakFrederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumont, PerspectivesGrand Haven Restaurant Week GrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Friday nights at GRaM, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks RememberedIntersection WyCE Jammie awards kzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries James Karsina ExhibitLouis Armstrong theatre, GvSu Allendale Campus The shape of ThingsMiller Auditorium Experience the beatles with RainMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionold Dog tavern Captain ivory wsg branden MannPapa Pete’s DeadbeatsPyramid Scheme super happy Funtime burlesque Love showSchuler Books (28th St) Patricia Clark book signingShakespeare’s Lower Level Jahman brahman feat. That Freak Quincy

Water Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

saturday

2.23Bell’s eccentric Cafe Cosby sweater wsg DJ boscoBilly’s Lounge serena EhrhardtBlackhawk Bar and Grill bob Marley birthday bashCancun Connection Bar and Grill Live RockCity Flats Hotel, Holland Cook in style: interactive DinnerDevos Performance Hall GR symphony Presents an american in ParisDog Story theater Working for a Living: Two One act PlaysDowntown Gr GR beer Week, Cool brews. hot Eats.Dr. Grins Kevin Pollakeast Gr Middle School GR Polar Plunge 2013 Fifth third Ball Park 8th annual beer Winter FestivalFounders Brewing Dragon WagonFrauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Murder Mystery Dinner “a Date With Death” Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGr kroc Center Dash Down DivisionHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarkskzoo Institute of Arts ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries James KarsinaLemonjello’s Good Luck Varsity, Fine Fine Titans, 1876, narco Debut, and Red LegsLouis Armstrong theatre, GvSu Allendale Campus The shape of ThingsMulligan’s Pub The hex bombsMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionthe Muze Tetradold Dog tavern Duffield Caron Projectthe orbit room The Pink Floyd ExperiencePapa Pete’s Latin salsaPark theater The WerksPyramid Scheme haunted Leather, heavier Than air Flying Machines, Paucity

sChEdulE


Dini

nG |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

s |

sCE

nE

SCHe

DuLe

Seven Steps up Pat McGee wsg Liz LongleyShag Bark Hickory Farms seed swapShakespeare’s Lower Level, kzoo Designer Drugs featuring Muzzy, slim Tim, Popshittip top Deluxe ChupaCobras,The JetbeatsWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatterWest Side Inn The Rain in yuma

sunday

2.24the 411 Club sunday blues seriesDog Story theater Working for a Living: Two One act PlaysDowntown Gr Cool brews. hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Classical Concert series, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries James Karsinathe Livery irish Music sessionLouis Armstrong theatre, GvSu Allendale Campus The shape of ThingsMeijer theater van Andel Museum Center The Tony’sMulligan’s Pub Ozenza and antique screamMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionold Dog tavern Open Mic, Crossroads blues bandSalt of the earth Live arabic inspired Musictip top Deluxe Eilen Jewell wsg Chuck Whiting and his Rowdy FriendsuICA Die architektenWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

Monday

2.25Downtown Gr Cool brews. hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumont

GvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown LandmarksLaFontsee Galleries James Karsina ExhibitLemonjello’s The Fever haze, natively Foreign, Elliot street Lunatic, Cain Marko, and along The shoreMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibition

old Dog tavern Great Lakes acoustic Music associationthe Station beginner ballet for adultsvan Andel Arena Maroon 5 with neon Trees and Owl CityWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatterWichers Auditorium Erich Peterson french horn recital

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

Best Bet: Comedy

Kathleen Madigan

KathlEEn MadiganMiller Auditorium, KalamazooFeb. 15, 8 p.m. / $32.50millerauditorium.com, (269) 387-2300



sChEdulE

LADIES LITERARY CLUB61 SHELDON BLVD SE

FEBRUARY 2FEBRUARY 16MARCH 2MARCH 16ALL SHOWS 7:33 PMRIVERCITYIMPROV.COM

tuEsday

2.26Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with GeorgiaCalvin College, Covenant Fine Arts Center Lake Effect saxophone QuartetDowntown Gr Cool brews. hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries James KarsinaMiller Audtorium hairMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionold Dog tavern Open Mic nightSchuler Books (28th St) aric Davis book signingSt. Paul’s episcopal Church Cantate Chamber Ensemble and Varsity 8the Station belly Dance ClassuICA intro Pottery ClassWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

WEdnEsday

2.27Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Line DancingBar Divani Wine social

Cook-DeWitt Center, GvSu Allendale Campus arts at noon series: Ensemble Caprice - salsa baroqueCurragh, Holland nate hollyDowntown Gr Cool brews. hot Eats. Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of MagicHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries James Karsinathe Livery Team TriviaMiller Audtorium hairMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionold Dog tavern alison Wonderland with David Llyod, steven Lee PeschPyramid Scheme Jimkata, arpetriouICA intro Jewelry Design ClassWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter

thursday

2.28Alaskan Pipeline Inc Bar & Saloon Karaoke with EricBell’s eccentric Cafe Zach DeputyDevos Place 34th annual West Michigan home and Garden showDowntown Gr Cool brews. hot Eats. Dr. Grins bret ErnstFounders Brewing Roster McCabe

Frederik Meijer Gardens Connected and Disconnected: The sculpture of hanneke beaumontGrAM Graphic Design - in Production, Jon McDonald: slavery’s ChillGvSu Art Gallery Mystery, Magic, and Mayhem: Wonders from the american Museum of Magicthe Hideout Brewing Company Team TriviaHolland Museum Lost holland: Former Downtown Landmarks Rememberedthe Intersection Dustin Lynch wsg brian Lorente and the Usual suspects, The Kari Lynch bandkzoo Institute of Arts Photographs by ansel adamsLaFontsee Galleries James Karsina ExhibitMuskegon Civic theater Crimes of the heartMuskegon Museum of Art Poetry Competition, Textile Exhibition, hughie Lee-smith Exhibitionone trick Pony Grill & taproom acoustic stew with 13th hourPapa Pete’s Latin salsaPyramid Scheme Retro D’LuxeSaugatuck Brewing beer school 101 Schuler Books (28th St) Jennifer Rush book signingShakespeare’s Lower Level, kzoo Jim Kata featuring KyckstandsSportsman’s Bar and Grille The Melon showvan Andel Arena Disney on ice Presents 100 years of MagicWater Street Gallery splash, spin, splatter n

For more events and info, check out our calendar at revueWM.CoM.

1501 Lake Dr., Grand Rapids, MI

•14k Gold, Titanium, Niobium••Large Gauge Jewelry in•

Stone, Glass, and Wood

•Exquisite Body Jewelry for•Exquisite Taste


Dini

nG |

siG

hTs

| s

OUnD

s |

sCE

nE

SCHe

DuLe

Documents

Revue, February 2013