Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The Grand Rapids City Commission approved a $14.5 million project to remove four dams from the Grand River next summer (restoring the river’s rapids) to create new spaces for kayaking, tubing, and fishing downtown.

Dionne Hardiman will model at Sheldon Clubhouse's Breaking the Label fundraiser on March 18 — the largest event of the year — which supports local mental health services with help from local boutiques including Gild the Lily Consignment.

Mr. & Mrs. Crab, a Florida chain, will open its second West Michigan restaurant at 4505 Canal Ave. SW in early March.

The 7,829 sqft venue replaces Hong BBQ & Hot Pot and will offer a customizable seafood boil where guests choose their own seafood & sauces.

Abby Haywood hosts a free hand-drawn portrait booth at the World of Winter Festival outside the Art Museum to bring color to a gray season.

The booth operates today (1 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.).

Lowell High School senior Jarrett Smith pursues his third state wrestling title while maintaining a 4.49 GPA and staying on track for valedictorian status.

His team competes today at Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo and he wrestles individually next weekend at Ford Field - Detroit.

A new barber and cosmetology school will open this spring on the East Beltline and become Grand Rapids’ first dedicated barber school, offering a year-long local training option for students who previously traveled to Lansing or Kalamazoo.

Hudsonville, Zeeland and Kentwood are among 27 districts that received nearly $44 million from the Michigan Department of Education Clean Bus Energy Grant to buy 99 electric and 10 propane school buses, a move that will lower operating costs and reduce harmful emissions.

The funds were distributed in the February state aid payment.

Kentwood tutoring program provided by Michigan Education Corps (partnering with Kentwood Public Schools) helps students like second grader Jazmin improve reading skills.

A $150,000 donation from the Jandernoa Foundation will keep it running as state officials stress the need for better literacy support.

Alpine Township Fire Chief Dave Klomparens has medically resigned after a fall at home led to ongoing health risks and ended his role in transforming the department into a full-career team.

Deputy Chief Jeremy Kelly (27-year veteran) now leads efforts to update training and policies.

Young adults in Cascade find buying affordable housing hard as median home prices exceed $580,000 (compared to over $350,000 countywide) and local experts note that new zoning rules limit density to preserve community character.

The change comes amid broader state housing reform efforts.

Noodle Fest

11 AM – 6 PM — Calder Plaza — $6 noodle bowls — Experience West Michigan’s noodle showdown with exciting spice challenges and live entertainment.

Gimme Gimme Disco

8-11 p.m. — The Stache — Not specified — Dance the night away to ABBA and classic disco hits for an unforgettable party experience.

Dancing With The Stars Tour

7-10 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets available online — Experience the excitement and glitz of Hollywood's favorite dance show live on stage.

Ultimate Sport Show 2026

1 PM-5 PM — DeVos Place — Varies by exhibitor — Experience the excitement of the 81st Annual Ultimate Sport Show with over 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest outdoor gear and adventures.

& Juliet Performance

& Juliet — 7:30-10:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Starting at $44 — Experience a vibrant musical reimagining of Shakespeare's classic tale.

EKHS All Class Reunion Bash

5:30-8:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets start at $64 — Celebrate with music from multiple local bands at this class reunion event.

Grand Rapids Gold Free Ticket Event

7-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Free tickets for DSAWM members — Catch the Grand Rapids Gold live in action with a special ticket giveaway!

Rick Steves' Europe: A Symphonic Journey

7:30-10:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets start at $45 — Experience an enchanting musical exploration of Europe with Rick Steves.

Branford Marsalis Quartet Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — St. Cecilia Music Center — Ticket information available — Experience the profound talent of Branford Marsalis, a jazz luminary renowned for his dynamic performances and rich musical heritage.

Mega 80's vs. Class of 98 Showdown

9 PM — Elevation at The Intersection — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying night of music as the 80s and 90s battle it out on the dance floor.