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

Imminent weather this. Freezing weather, that. We live in Michigan!

Get out there, drive, or if you’re home, shovel every 30 minutes, and on top of all, do it in shorts.

I’m joking, people.

These last few days have been rough, and the next few might be worse. Stay warm, bundle up. I’ll catch you next week! 🫡

~LeQwane L.

A briefing of local news that matters

Health

Corewell Health has started planning for an addition at Butterworth Hospital. The expansion includes a new patient tower, a larger emergency department, about 180 private beds, and 15 new operating rooms. The plan still needs approvals, with a possible board vote in 2027 and a target finish around 2030. | Read more

Arts

Frederik Meijer Gardens is back in the running for USA Today 10Best Best Sculpture Park after winning the top spot the last 3 years in a row. Voting is open now and ends Feb. 16th. And it’s worth noting you can vote once per day. | Vote here

Community

While some kids miss school because of snow, some GR area families also miss out on school meals, and local groups are stepping up to solve that. Kids’ Food Basket on Plymouth Ave and God’s Kitchen on Division Ave are packing and serving meals, and both say winter weather usually brings higher demand. They’re also looking for volunteers. | Learn more

I will include the results of this poll in Monday’s newsletter

You’re here, so there’s a good chance you care about your neighborhood.

I saw The Grand Rapids Neighborhood Summit and thought I’d share it in today’s issue. What’s the summit?

The Neighborhood Summit is a day-long event where residents, neighborhood leaders, businesses, and local groups come together to swap ideas and build connections across the city. There are…

Plus community resource tables and time to connect with what’s expected to be about 500 people.

Learn more

Want to share good news with 5,300+ other GR locals?

😂 Laughfest Releases Event Lineup

The annual Laughfest comedy festival is returning in March. The event will bring comedians from all around the nation to various venues around Grand Rapids. Also, they’re celebrating their 15th anniversary.

🎤 Acrisure Amphitheater Looks For Local Artists

The big bad $184M amphitheater isn’t just for celebrities. The venue announced it is looking for local artists to perform in front of thousands during its free opening weekend. You can submit interest here.

📸 GRPM Casting Call

I guess this was the week of casting. The GRPM is looking for local actors to participate in an “immersive experience” at its exhibit featuring holographic storytellers that share cultural traditions, language, and seasonal practices. There are about 8 spots open.

Talking Shop

Making Thyme Kitchen → The long-time Alger Heights ready-to-cook/ food delivery service has been sold to a new owner as the Husband and Wife founders retire

Big Top Market → Announced it’ll provide $200 vouchers to families displaced by a fire in a Wyoming apartment (this is why we support local people!)

House Rules Lounge → The community board game spot, House Rules (📍 404 Ionia Ave SW), is celebrating its 5th anniversary on Saturday from 12 PM to 8 PM

*Make sure to double-check events as there can be cancellations!

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

Quick hits of news from cities around Grand Rapids

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Made with ❤ in Grand Rapids