Good morning, Grand Rapids. I’m Jenny and this is Calder News.

I’ve never been a soccer fan, but I have to admit that the World Cup is converting me to a football follower.

I am loving all the excitement, and I’m even enjoying the games, but what I love most is seeing people from all over the world come to America and enjoy the simple things we take for granted like refills on pop and free chips and salsa at Mexican restaurants. We do have it pretty good here.

I’m not the only one swept away with soccer fever. Read about that and more in today’s newsletter.

~Jenny F.

World Cup Fever has been spreading all throughout the country, and Grand Rapids is no exception. As we look forward to our own soccer stadium and team, it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement of the FIFA World Cup.

Which explains why tickets sold out only hours after Acrisure Amphitheater posted they were hosting a watch party for the final World Cup game. It probably also helped that the tickets were free.

For those who could claim tickets, they’ll gather with 12,000 Grand Rapidians on Sunday, July 19th, to cheer on their favorite team. See more details.

A briefing of local news that matters

Development

When Rite Aid filed for bankruptcy two years ago, they abandoned a lot of stores in Grand Rapids. Their former pharmacy in Gaslight Village is under renovation in hopes of attracting new businesses to the building. Read more here.

Community

Josh and Jase are two American-loving Brits who visited Michigan this past winter and fell in love with the state, so much so, that they’ve announced they’ll be back July 24th to enjoy the spoils of summer. See more details. (I still can’t get over this hilarious sledding video from their last visit.)

Employment

If you’re currently collecting unemployment (or know someone who is), heads up that starting July 17th, some changes are coming to the state of Michigan, including added work search responsibility requirements. See what’s changed.

Have news to report? Click here.

Wisteria and Sunshine, a boutique inspired by the movie Enchanted April, is teasing the opening of their Cherry Street shop on their Instagram page.

While we wait for Watusi’s brick-and-mortar restaurant to open, they invite you to taste-test ahead of time at their many pop-ups.

If you’ve got $2 million and you love Mexican Pizza as I do, maybe consider buying the Taco Bell on Michigan Street, which has gone up for sale. Warning: it comes with a reputation.

🍴 KDL Offers Free Kids Meals

Several KDL branches offer free sack lunches for kids during the summer, but this year, three branches are offering dinners as well. On weekdays, stop by the Wyoming or Kelloggsville branches from 4:30-5:30, or the Kentwood branch from 3-4 pm.

🥕 Free Food Boxes For Residents

The Grand Rapids Community Action Team is handing out boxes of pantry staples for Kent County residents on Thursday, July 9th, from 9 am to 1 pm. Find out if you’re eligible.

🎭 Civic Theater Welcomes First Looks

If you love theater but hate ticket prices, Civic Theater is accepting applications for its Community Preview program, which allows spectators to enjoy the show before opening night. Plus, this one is special because it’s the theatre’s Centennial Season.

K-Pop has gone mainstream with the phenomenon that was K-Pop Demon Hunters and the Bruno Mars/Rose hit “APT.” RAL Entertainment wants to keep the hype going with its third annual KWave Summer Fest.

This free event takes place on August 1st from 1 PM - 5 PM and will feature live performances, food, local vendors, educational exhibits, and family-friendly activities. The event will also honor the friendship between the US and South Korea and recognize Korean War veterans.

Anyone who enjoys Korean culture or wants to learn more about it is invited to share in the fun. See more details.

The Grand Rapids City Commission Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, July 7th, has been cancelled. The next meeting is set for Tuesday, July 21st at 8 AM. Meetings are livestreamed on The City of Grand Rapids Facebook page.

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

Made for Grand Rapids locals by locals. 📍