Good afternoon, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane and this is Calder News. And we’re hiring!

If you know of a local writer, please take a moment to share our application with them.

I’ve received some strong submissions, so I’m leaning toward closing applications by the end of this week.

~LeQwane L.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations are happening all around Grand Rapids this weekend.

So grab your green and head downtown Saturday, from 11 AM to 9 PM, for Irish Off Ionia at Calder Plaza. It’s one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parties, there’s a new event layout, two stages, more drink tents, and food all day in the heart of downtown.

Another big event is Shamrock on Stocking at The Holiday on Saturday, from 10 AM to 10 PM. This all-day celebration brings green drinks, live music, and neighborhood chaos to Stocking Ave with a lower-key feel than the downtown crowds.

Note: Either of these events is 21+ only

Here are some more St. Paddy’s Day shenanigans:

A briefing of local news that matters

Development

Construction is underway on a new $25 million mixed-use apartment building at 1480 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, part of Amplify GR’s Boston Square Together project on the SE side. The 45-unit building will include mostly income-restricted apartments, with the full 10-acre planned project set to bring more than 200 homes plus retail, green space, and community space to the neighborhood. | Learn about the project

How about that parking downtown? Grand Rapids leaders are moving ahead with a roughly $6 million surface parking lot at the old Butterworth landfill to add hundreds of spaces for downtown service workers. The site sits along the Grand River near I-196, and officials say it could help ease parking pressure as the amphitheater and soccer stadium get closer to opening. | Read more

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🧑‍💼 City Commissioner Seat Opens

Grand Rapids has opened applications to fill a vacancy in its First Ward Commissioner position. The position is open to First Ward residents from today (March 10th) through March 24th. Get the details on the position here!

🌊 Canal Park Greenway Update

There are so many projects on the riverfront happening, but yesterday we received an update on the Canal Park project. The park is becoming a “greenway hub” with a new playspace, public use event space, history, and water access points.

Business

Jose Babushka’s → After weeks of renovations, Jose Babushka’s in EGR is opening its “brand new space” next week (March 18th).

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

Quick hits of news from cities around Grand Rapids

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