Good morning, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane and this is Calder News — last week was tough on the world and on our own community, for many reasons but today is a fresh start.
I hope you had a great weekend to rest and reset.
I wish you a brighter week ahead filled with good news, good people, and good moments. 😌
Now, let’s get into today’s issue.
~LeQwane L.
Local Performance Arts
Together with: Grand Rapids Ballet
On Friday, October 10th, 2025, Grand Rapids Ballet is hosting its annual Gala at St. Cecilia Music Center.
This signature event combines performance, dinner, and dancing in support of Michigan’s only professional ballet company.
Help sustain world-class artistry and community programs that bring the joy of dance to West Michigan.
Talk Of The Town
🧹 22 Years Of Cleaning
On Saturday, the 22nd annual Mayor’s Clean Up took place along the Grand River. The event that invites volunteers and city officials to ensure our little ole river stays pretty and clean for us and native wildlife.
🐱 Cat Shelter Needs Support
Focus on Ferals, a volunteer-run shelter in Byron Center, is caring for nearly 100 cats going into the Fall season. And they’re looking for community assistance to ensure they’ll be able to care for them.
Closing:
Smokey Bones’ — The BBQ chain Smokey Bones’ located on 28th Street has closed due to its parent company shifting to support more profitable ventures.
Crew Highlight
What started in 2018 as a tiny upstairs antique shop has transformed into one of Grand Rapids’ most unique destinations.
Elevated Market, at 955 Godfrey Ave. SW fills 25,000 square feet with antiques, vintage clothing, retro decor, artisan goods, books, collectibles, and creative treasures spread across four zones, including the Window Room and Book Room.
The space is designed for exploration, with vendor booths, snacks, and even community art woven throughout.
Elevated’s growth over the years has made it more than a market—it’s become a hub where artistry, community, and curiosity come together.
What’s Happening?
Preview: Events —> Live Music
Monday, September 15th
Create a Ceramic Trinkets | GR Pottery | 6:30 PM | $75
Natural Dye Tea Towels | Speciation Cellars | 6:30 PM | $38
Tuesday, September 16th
Community Day | GRAM | 12 PM - 5 PM | Free admission
FREE Flooring Workshop | Home Repair Services KC | 6 PM | Free
Swing | Rosa Park Circle | 7 PM | Free
Speed Dating for Singles | O’Toole’s | 7:30 PM | $38
Wednesday, September 17th
Guardians of the Collectibles Toy Show | Legion Post 179 | 10 AM | $3
DisruptHR | Rapid River Stillhouse | 2 PM | $44
Start Garden Demo Day | GLC Live | 5 PM | ?
All Week
Tech Week | Various locations | Various times | (Mon - Sat)
Community Access | Blandford Nature Center | Free admission
Various family/ individual events | Local Library | Free | Check out 30+ recurring or one-off events are being hosted at your local public library this week
Live Music
Monday, September 15th
Trilogy | The Score | 6 PM | Free
Harlow with Emma and Benjamin James Childs | Tip Top | 7 PM | $14
Tuesday, September 16th
Strumble Head | The Score | 6 PM | Free
Saliva | Elevation | 6 PM | $41
Peach Pit | The Intersection | 7 PM | $53
Wednesday, September 17th
BRENA | The Score | 6 PM | Free
John Hayes | Vander Mill | 6:30 PM | Free
Tophouse | Elevation | 7 PM | $35
*Shows are subject to change, but that’s show biz.
Outside The Plaza
Quick hits of news from cities around Grand Rapids
That’s All For Today…
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Made with ❤ in Grand Rapids