Good morning, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane and this is Calder News that’s as cool as getting the whole row to yourself on the plane.
Speaking of cool and planes, boy, this weather has me feeling like I need a trip soon. 😆
~LeQwane L.
The Digest
A briefing of local news that matters
Community
Sullivan Field Gets A $5.8M Renovation
Sullivan Field is making a historic comeback. After years of efforts, last week the Co-founder of Fan of Valley Field (the group leading the park’s renovation) announced that funds are in place to bring the 89-year-old ballpark on the west side back to life. Upgrades include repaired stands and roof, refreshed bathrooms, new concessions and entry area, better accessibility, and a small museum highlighting the park’s history. | Read more
Education
New Law Bans Phones From Classrooms
Earlier this week, Gov. Whitmer signed a new law to ban cellphones from classrooms in Michigan public schools - “a step we need to fight back against addictions” and Michigan’s falling literacy ratings. While a few districts around Grand Rapids have already implemented similar rules, the policy goes into effect statewide in the Fall.
GVSU’s $166M Tech Hub
GVSU is moving on with its $166M project to remake the Eberhard Center along the Grand River into a new tech hub called Blue Dot Lab. The project will bring new classrooms, research labs, and event space, plus upgraded studios for WGVU Public Media. Construction is expected to start in late spring or early summer, with a target finish by summer 2028. | Read more
City
GR Settles With Homeowners
Grand Rapids has agreed to pay a $195,000 settlement to over a dozen homeowners on Philadelphia Avenue after a 24-inch water main break flooded the neighborhood back in 2024. The city previously told residents it would not cover damages; how the money will be split has not been shared yet. W | Read more
Have news to report? Click here.
Contribute To The Crew
Calder News is 100% free to read, independently owned, and locally operated (outside of our video editor, it’s just me).
Your contributions go toward keeping the Crew going so I can have more fun, build more community, and create a team. I appreciate any and all support my friends! - LeQwane
Civic News
The GR City Commission meeting took place on Tuesday. Here’s a quick recap of what happened!
🌉 The construction for the GVSU–YMCA pedestrian bridge was approved 🏗 North Ravines utilities agreement + redevelopment amendment set for Adams Ave, Grand Rapid’s siter city agreement with Vaughan, Ontario was authorized. Public hearings on Long Road Distillers tax district + $680K project
Commissioner Steps Down
Grand Rapids’ 1st Ward Commissioner Drew Robbins served at his final meeting as a Commissioner. Robbins next goal is to run for Michigan’s 84th State House District.
Walker Gets A New City Manager
The City of Walker has appointed Shay Gallagher to be its new city manager. Gallagher brings over 10 years of experience, previously serving as the deputy city admin for Kentwood, village manager of Sparta, and deputy city manager in Coopersville.
President’s Day Closures
Most city/ municipal buildings will be closed to observe President’s Day on Monday, February 16th. Trash, recycling, and yard waste will operate as normal.
Talk Of The Town
🐍 Touch A Snake — Slithering Sunday
On Sunday, the Downtown Market is hosting a free family-friendly event in its greenhouse that’ll allow you to meet, hold, and learn about reptiles and their environments. Get details.
🩰 GR Talent Search
Downtown GR Inc. is looking to bring street performers to downtown for spring and summer events. They’re paying performers up to $50/hr, letting them keep tips, and accepting solo or group acts. The range of performers they’re looking for is pretty large - learn more.
🎠 Historic Carousel Returns
Later today, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is unveiling its fully renovated 1928 Spillman Carousel to the public. The museum is staying open for extended hours to accommodate guests looking for a bit of nostalgia.
Talking Shop
Silva → Silva GR is celebrating its 1st anniversary today with a “Big Ole Birthday” - the event will be a “night of celebration and unapologetic joy”.
Want to share good news with 5,800+ other GR locals?
Ask Grand Rapids 🤔
Have you ever attended an event featured in Calder News?
What’s Happening?
Friday, February 13th
Grand Rapids Boat Show | DeVos Place | (Fri - Sun) Various times | $5+
Luv'N Lunch | Rosa Parks Circle | 12 PM | $3+
SILVA’s Big Ol’ Birthday | BIG Room | 4 PM | Free
Friday Night Food Trucks | 555 Monroe North Lot | 6 PM | Free
Comedy: Brad Williams | DeVos Performance Hall | 7 PM | $49
Broads Burlesque: Heart U | Kusterer Brauhaus | 7 PM | $15
Grand Rapids Griffins VS Texas Stars | Van Andel Arena | (Fri, Sun) 7 PM, 4 PM | $29+
My Bloody Valentine's A Silent Disco | JW Marriott | 9 PM | $23
Saturday, February 14th
Valentine's Artist Market | OTONO | (Sat - Sun) Various times | Free
Valentine’s Artist Pop-UP | Roeda Studio | 10 AM | Free
Window Installation Workshop | Home Repair Services of KC | 10 AM | Free
Art, Love, and Chocolate Tour | GRAM | 10:30 AM | $7
For the Love of TypeWriters | MUSE GR | 12 PM | Free
VALENSHINE | Silva | 4 PM | Free
World of Winter: Love on Ice | Rosa Parks Circle | 6 PM | $3+
Valentine's Luminary Evenings | Blandford Nature Center | 6 PM | $16+
Grand Rapids Rise vs. Atlanta Vibe | Van Andel Arena | 7 PM | $19+
An Evening in Red Valentine's Day Ball | Social Dance Studio | 7 PM | $20
Valentines Speed Dating Meets Dance Lessons | The Lit | 7 PM | $20
The Fab Four | Van Andel Arena | 7:30 PM | $35
Improv Comedy | Wealthy Theatre | 8 PM | $12+
THE CUPID SOCIAL | Hard Times | 9 PM | $15
Sunday, February 15th
Reptile Expo | 4747 28th St. | 10 AM | $5
Slithering Sunday | Downtown Market | 10 AM - 1 PM | Free
Drag Storybook Hour | Cellar Bird Books | 1 PM | Free
Legends of Laughter | DeVos Performance Hall | 7 PM | $80
Monday, February 16th
Mason Jars! Adult Paint & Sip | Thornapple Brewing | 6 PM | $35
Live Music
Friday, February 13th
Descendents & Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls | GLC Live | 6 PM | $58+
King Biscuit Blues Band | Horrocks Market | 6 PM | Free
Smells Like Nirvana | The Stache | 7 PM | $18
Thomas Tran Quartet | The Stray | 7 PM | Free
The Fukushima Daisies + Supergrudge + Epcya | Pyramid Scheme | 7 PM | $13+
BUNT. | The Intersection | 8 PM | $48
Heart String Circus | Four Star Theatre | 8 PM | $30
A Proper Axe and O'Dell Weaver and Jonas Edge | Tip Top | 8 PM | $17
Coldplay & Imagine Dragons | Wealthy Theatre | 8:45 PM | $24
Erin Monroe: Sierra Ferrell Trail of Flowers | Speciation Cellars | 9 PM | Free
Dolly Dagger | Twisted Bull | 9:30 PM | Free
Saturday, February 14th
The River Rogues Jazz Band | Horrocks Market | 5 PM | Free
Shane Smith & the Saints | GLC Live | 7 PM | $36
Da'Veonce & DaFunk Gang | The Stray | 7 PM | $12
Badfish | Elevation | 7 PM | $35
Nathan Walton and Shelby Leigh | Rapid River Stillhouse | 7 PM | Free
Shane Smith & the Saints | GLC Live | 7 PM | $36+
Mersiv & MorFlo | The Intersection | 8 PM | $60
Sponge + The Rockit King + The Lithiums | The Pyramid Scheme | 8 PM | $27
YOU ME AND R&B | JW Marriott | 9 PM | $23
Sunday, February 15th
Kyle Dobrowoski | Kusterer Brauhaus | 4 PM | Free
Riot Punch + Lucius Fox + Tiberius + Swandrive | The Pyramid Scheme | 7:30 PM | $16
*Shows are subject to change, but that’s show biz.
That’s All For Today…
⭐ If you enjoyed today’s newsletter, copy the link to the post and share it with a friend. Every new reader that joins our email helps.
📧 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.
Connect: Linkedin
Made with ❤ in Grand Rapids