Your morning starts here.

Grand Rapids launched a pilot program that certifies local musicians as small business vendors to perform in the 3rd Ward on Sept.

26. The initiative carries a combined $50,000 investment and may expand citywide next year.

Steelcase announced yesterday that Irene Tasi was named president and will begin on Sept.

14. She replaces Sara Armbruster after HNI Corporation's acquisition in a cash+stock deal valued at $2.2 billion.

Grand Rapids Tech Week returns for its fifth year on Monday with a focus on AI and 85 planned events, including appearances by Shark Tank investors Daymond John and Robert Herjavec — boosting local firms like Atomic Object to expand into new markets.

Bryan Cranston (star of Breaking Bad) will visit Grand Rapids for the ArtPrize celebration from Sept.

18 to Oct. 3, following preview week that starts Sept. 12; he will explore installations, host an acting seminar for local students and join the awards weekend celebration.

Pulaski Days celebrates its 54th year this September in Grand Rapids—community events will honor Polish heritage with cultural exhibits, local music, and traditional food.

Candied Yam in Kentwood now accepts SNAP and EBT benefits for seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness to ensure everyone can enjoy their comfort food.

The program aims to help neighbors on fixed incomes savor a warm meal with dignity.

Breaking Bad star Bryan Cranston will present awards + mentor students at ArtPrize 2026’s final ceremony at Acrisure Amphitheater on Oct.

3. The full event runs for 22 days from Sept. 18 to Oct. 3 and fills city venues with art displays.

In 2024, ITC conducted helicopter patrols from Sept.

8 through Nov. 13 to inspect high-voltage lines in the Lower Peninsula for vegetation hazards and equipment wear (per North American Electrical Reliability Corporation standards). Residents were advised not to be alarmed when they saw the low-flying helicopters during these routine inspections.