Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The DDA approved $53,000 for a downtown community garden on Seward Avenue near the Las Canchas futsal courts to support workshops, programming, and equipment.

Jade Rabbit will lead monthly sessions in 2026 to help residents access fresh food + learn urban farming skills.

13 ON YOUR SIDE named Ashley Talley permanent news director after serving as an interim leader since October; she brings nearly 20 years of newsroom experience (and a Brown University degree).

Talley said she looks forward to guiding the station's transformation in Grand Rapids.

Dan Diemer’s shop in Plainfield Township now sees dramatic buyer interest as gold soars above $4,500 per ounce and silver climbs to about $74 amid global economic uncertainty — his dwindling silver stock underscores the rush for tangible assets.

Urban Soil Realty owner Bradley Veneklase will open an artist vendor market at 200 S.

Division Ave. on March 1 when the current tenant leaves, offering booth rentals for $450 monthly and wall space at $250 (space for over 80 vendors).

Kathryn Rogalski has been named GRCC’s 12th president after a monthslong search and currently serves as VP of academic affairs at NWTC; she will begin her role in early 2026 (board chair Brandy Mitchell praised her leadership).

Kent County Public Works is advising residents to follow recycling guidelines for holiday waste, separating items like wrapping paper, plastics, and string lights and using special drop-off sites for items such as electronics and Christmas trees.

Residents should review county instructions (available online) for proper disposal to help reduce landfill waste.

The Breton Ravines housing project in Kentwood will build 216 homes on 71 acres with an extension to Breton Road beginning in 2026.

The $30 million project (partly funded by a Brownfield TIF plan) aims to ease traffic on nearby roads.

A $795.8M riverfront project at Fulton Street and Market Avenue SW got a $560.9M tax incentive from the Michigan Strategic Fund Monday.

Fulmar Development Partners, with DeVos and Van Andel families, will build an office, hotel + a 43-story residential tower and donate $8.5M to affordable housing over 20 years.

Cannonsburg Ski Area opened early on Dec.

12 and Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park has run with only two closure days since late November; lighter crowds followed a dry spell since Dec. 19 (forecasts call for snow showers and cold on Monday) as fans hope for a stronger winter season.

Great Lakes Invitational

3:30-5 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Watch top college hockey teams clash for the MacInnes Cup in this exciting tournament.

AFTERGLOW: New Year's Eve Celebration

7-10:30 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience Big Gigantic's genre-blending sound of electronic dance music and live instruments this New Year's Eve.

Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show

12:00 – 1:30 PM — DeVos Place — Ticket prices vary — Explore the latest RVs, travel trailers, and camping gear at this local favorite event.

Concert Night with King Ink and Friends

7-10:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of energetic performances with King Ink and supporting acts Zudocks, Moravian, and Feeding Grizzlies.

Milwaukee Admirals vs. Grand Rapids Griffins

7-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting hockey matchup between two AHL rivals in Grand Rapids.

The Somm Series: Vino & Pintxos

7-9 p.m. — Grand Vin — $75 per person — Discover exquisite Spanish wines paired with delightful snacks led by experienced sommeliers.

John Heffron Live Comedy Show

6:00 – 10:15 PM — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian John Heffron performing live.

John Heffron Live

6:00 – 10:15 PM — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with the comedic stylings of John Heffron.

Cabin Fever Psychic & Holistic Fair

10 AM – 6 PM — Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton — Free entry — Explore mystical vibes with aura photography, tarot readings, and more to break the winter blues.

Methodology Melee: How We Build Digital Products

6-8 p.m. — Start Garden — Free entry — Discover the human side of digital product development through expert-led discussions and networking.