Good morning, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane, and this is Calder News, and it’s Spring Break (at least for our crew).

I’ll be taking a vacation next week. There will not be another issue of Calder News released until 4/14. Bummer, I know…

But here’s the good news: when I return, I’ve got an announcement to share. 😉

Thanks for taking the time to read today’s issue. I always appreciate your kind words and ongoing support for our growing hyperlocal media company.

Have a great weekend and upcoming week 🫡

~LeQwane L.

Together with: Tommy Brann’s Steakhouse

For more than 60 years, Tommy Brann’s Steakhouse has been part of the Grand Rapids dining tradition.

From family dinners and date nights to game days and casual nights out, Brann’s Steakhouse has stayed a go-to for affordable, hearty meals, familiar faces, and the kind of local spot people keep coming back to.

Whether you know it from the old days or haven’t had the chance to try it, Brann’s is serving the steaks, burgers, slow-cooked ribs, and comfort food that have made it a longtime West Michigan favorite.

See why generations of locals still choose Brann’s.

Order Online or visit Tommy Brann’s (4167 Division Ave)

A briefing of local news that matters

Development

After years of sitting unused, GRPS has received seven proposals for repurposing its former Alexander and Stocking elementary schools. Next, the district will decide what to do with the vacant properties. Four groups proposed mixed-use housing, community centers, and residential homes for Alexander, while three groups suggested a nonprofit community center, residential housing, and mixed-use development for Stocking. The district plans to review the proposals and bring a recommendation to the school board on May 11th. | See the proposals

Have news to report? Click here.

There’s a New Sheriff City Attorney in Town

On Tuesday, the City Commission interviewed three finalists for the open city attorney role. And on Thursday, the committee unanimously selected Philip Strom to fill the position. Strom has previously held the interim role since September. He was also the city’s deputy city attorney for six years.

Open Commissioner Seat Has Potential 10 Candidates

At the same City Commission meeting, it was announced that 10 local candidates have been advanced for the opportunity to fill the empty 1st Ward City Commissioner seat. While 8/10 are seemingly not running for the role later this year, locals Steve Tibbe and Lindsey Perez‑Plesche have campaign sites up.

Wondering what Commissioners do? Here’s an animation the city made. It’s not the prettiest, but it gets the job done!

☕ Grab A Flight

Downtown Market has launched “Flight Fridays” for April. The speciality night will have visitors try “flights” (a series of smaller portions) of ice creams, egg rolls, sushi, baked goods, and more from the various restaurant vendors. No planes will be taking off from Downtown Market.

🛼 Skating Rink Launches Special Sensory Days

GR Skate & Event Center (formerly Funspot) in Kentwood has launched Sensory Sunday - a day that turns the rink into an inclusive experience for our neighbors with special needs.

Opening:

🍸 Tellers Lounge → A new upscale cocktail bar/ lounge had its grand opening yesterday in the historic Harris building in Downtown Grand Rapids

🌭 Urban Dog → Like hot dogs? A gourmet hot dog spot with “Puerto Rican” soul is launching at 900 Hall on the SE side of town soon

🌮 Trust → After a major renovation in the historic Harris building, an all-new American Soul restaurant has opened its doors to the community

Closing:

🥩 Grand Butchers → After 12+ years of operations, butcher/ deli shop Grand Butchers on Michigan has closed its doors

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

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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.

Made with ❤ in Grand Rapids