Good morning, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane and this is Calder News — and sure, it’s been a little gray out there, but hey, it’s still Friday. And it's supposed to be a great day outside.

Let’s head into it with good vibes and take a quick look at what’s happening around town.

~LeQwane L.

Together with: Smallegan Real Estate

Ever seen a custom-built home in a private wooded area?

Set at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this thoughtfully designed home offers privacy, quality finishes, and a layout built for comfort.

Enjoy open-concept living with custom kitchen details, upgraded flooring, and a private deck with wooded views. The lower level includes a rare third garage stall—ideal for storage, hobbies, or a workshop.

Located near Caledonia schools, parks, and everyday amenities, this home delivers standout design in a well-kept community.

Come see the space, light, and layout that make this one hard to beat.

Interested in having native content for your business or organization in Calder News? Let’s talk about how we can collaborate ([email protected]).

A briefing of local news that matters

Public Safety

After a pause due to staffing shortages, Kentwood Police are bringing back their Citizens Academy this September. The program gives locals a behind-the-scenes look at police work to boost community trust. With new officers on the way, this program may help the community get familiar with their local dept. | You can join the fall session here

Business

Utz Brands plans to shut down its manufacturing facility on Canton Street SW in 2026, in a move to shift operations elsewhere. The closure will happen in two phases. Manufacturing ends in January and warehousing wraps up by May. While the brand’s snacks will still be on store shelves, this move follows a wider trend of job cuts in Michigan’s manufacturing sector. | Read more

Civic

Heads up if you’ve got business at the SOS. The 28th Street location will be closed from August 4 to August 18 for a remodel. They’re updating counters, dividers, and their testing areas. You can still renew licenses or registrations online or at a self-service kiosk. But for in-person help, you’ll have to use the nearby Plainfield and Wyoming offices.

Have news to report? Click here.

💃 GR Gold Wants you

Think you (or someone you know) has what it takes to be on one of the most highlighted dance teams in GR? The GR Gold is hosting open auditions later this month. Read more details on their website.

Opening 🆕

Knapp’s Corner is getting a new Mexican restaurant. Acapulco Mexican Grill is set to open its 5th location (the others are at least 1-2h+ away) in Grand Rapids around August 15th.

Closing 👋

Bridge St. is losing a local favorite. Arktos Meadery is preparing to close its doors for good on August 31st. They shared why they’re closing on Facebook.

Want to have your business featured here? Contact me.

I was reading a report from Wood TV 8 that highlighted Disability Pride Month and took a hard look at how accessible life is across West Michigan.

And while there were notable highlights, it’s clear there’s still a long road ahead:

Local advocates like Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2025, Rynita McGuire, are pushing for visibility and change, while local organizations are working with city leaders and developers to improve our cities’ accessibility.

It’s a pretty interesting article; you can read more here.

Preview: Events —> Live Music

Red Rose Music Lab Students | Horrocks Market | 3 PM | Free

*Shows are subject to change, but that’s show biz.

Quick hits of news from cities around Grand Rapids

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📧 Get your business in an upcoming issue of Calder News. Let’s talk about how we can put your business in front of thousands of GR locals.

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