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Rick Jensen

Rick Jensen is a Grand Rapids native who has enjoyed growing up in the region and watching the city grow and evolve.  He currently works in healthcare communications and has also spent time working in higher education and arts and culture.  He and his partner Eric live in the Midtown neighborhood with their two cats and enjoy the downtown city scene including all things food, drinks, and arts and culture.  He is a regular contributor to Spectrum Health's Health Beat.
 

Dive Bars to Check Out in Grand Rapids

The term “dive bar” has evolved in meaning over the years. What once meant an uncertain destination for many now points to an off the radar, unpretentious spot that serves great drinks and is full of local character. If you’re looking for a lesser-known option that’s not as mainstream, Grand Rapids…

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Sample Exclusive Wines & More With This GR-Area Wine Tour

Raise a Glass Wine Tours is a venture that chauffeurs guests around the greater Grand Rapids area for a luxury, one-of-a-kind local wine tour, beginning when the chauffeur picks you up at your downtown hotel or location of choice. Public tour options include a dinner wine tour and a brunch wine…

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Your Guide to the 2023 Grand Rapids Pride Festival

Celebrating pride in Grand Rapids for 35 years If you have never been to the Grand Rapids Pride Festival, you’ll want to check it out on Saturday, June 17, from noon to 10 p.m. at Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids. This year the event will ring in 35 years of celebrating Pride in the city of…

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Locally Owned & Operated LGBTQ+ Businesses to Check Out

Grand Rapids is home to many locally owned and operated LGBTQIA+ businesses. The city is now a destination to live and work for people of all ages and identities as more inclusive businesses open within walking distance of the urban core. You’ll notice many bars, restaurants, and businesses around…

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Enjoying the Downtown Refreshment Area with Your Dog

I love nothing more than taking my dog out on a date. My partner, Eric, and I love to grab dinner or a drink on a patio that welcomes our best man, Walter. He’s the best boy and deserves a night out too. We have checked out many dog-friendly places around town, but most recently went in search of a…

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Locally Crafted Hard Seltzer in Grand Rapids

Hard seltzer continues to attract new fans across the nation and is one of the hottest new trends in boozy drinks. Hard seltzer, or spiked seltzer, is an alcoholic beverage containing carbonated water, alcohol, and usually a fruit flavoring. These beverages have really made a comeback over the past…

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Drag Brunch 101: A New Kind of Sunday Funday in Grand Rapids

One of the hottest things to do on a Sunday around Grand Rapids involves high kicks, cartwheels, and spins. It’s known as Michigan Drag Brunch, and it’s always a fun option for a Sunday Funday with friends. Michigan Drag Brunch features live dance performances, fabulous outfits, and of course…

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10 Must-Try Spots Featuring Nonalcoholic Beverages

Being in Beer City, USA, it’s understandable that local breweries, bars, and restaurants focus on craft beer and cocktail options. However, there are quite a few establishments in Grand Rapids that also cater to patrons who might want to enjoy a night out without such a heavy focus on alcohol. The…

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