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"Handcrafted Holiday Gifts & Hobby Fun in GR: Aquarium Shop Struggles, Macy's Closure Sparks Controversy"

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"Handcrafted Holiday Gifts & Hobby Fun in GR: Aquarium Shop Struggles, Macy's Closure Sparks Controversy"

"Handcrafted Holiday Gifts & Hobby Fun in GR: Aquarium Shop Struggles, Macy's Closure Sparks Controversy"
Celebrate creativity at GVSU's Art & Design showcase, support local businesses, find new hobbies in GR, and stay informed on Macy's closure! 🎨🦐🎉

Gerry Tablada

Jan 14, 2026

Quote Of The Day

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Albert Schweitzer

Students at Grand Valley State University's Art and Design program used their winter break to create handmade gifts for friends and family.

The students worked on a variety of projects including jewelry, ceramics, and woodworking.

By using skills they learned in their classes, they were able to design unique, personalized gifts that showcased their talents and creativity.

These handmade gifts allowed the students to connect with their loved ones on a deeper level and share their passion for art and design.

Read More...
 
 
The article discusses the challenges faced by a small aquarium shop in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The owner, Lynn Drevno, has been struggling to keep the business afloat due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and a decline in foot traffic.

Drevno has had to reduce inventory and hours of operation, as well as rely on online sales to generate revenue.

Despite these difficulties, Drevno remains hopeful and determined to adapt to the changing circumstances in order to keep the shop open and continue serving the local community.

Read More...
 
The article lists five fun places in Grand Rapids, Michigan where residents can start a new hobby in 2026.

The suggestions include a mossarium workshop at the Blandford Nature Center, glassblowing classes at the Glass Academy, dance lessons at Fred Astaire Dance Studio, rock climbing at Higher Ground Rock Climbing Centre, and crafting classes at the Grand Rapids Mud Room.

Each location offers a unique and enjoyable opportunity for individuals to explore new interests and hobbies in the new year.

Read More...
 
Macy's announced the closure of their Rivertown Crossings store as part of a national restructuring plan aimed at reducing costs and adapting to changing consumer behaviors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The closure of the Grandville location is one of 36 stores shutting down across the country.

The move is expected to impact around 90 employees at the Rivertown Crossings store, with job opportunities available at nearby Macy's locations.

The company plans to focus on strengthening its e-commerce business and expanding its presence in key markets through the My Macy's strategy.

Read More...

Events

 

 

 

❄️ Grand Rapids – World of Winter Festival

📅 January 13–20, 2026 (ongoing)
🕒 All day
📍 Downtown Grand Rapids (various locations)
🎟️ Admission: Free (most activities)
📄 Details: Downtown Grand Rapids shines with illuminated art installations, interactive exhibits, live performances, and winter-themed activities as part of this citywide seasonal festival.
🔗 Event Website: https://worldofwintergr.com/

 

🎨 Grand Rapids – Frederik Meijer Gardens Winter Exhibition

📅 January 13–20, 2026
🕒 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (extended evenings select days)
📍 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids
🎟️ Admission: Ticketed
📄 Details: Escape the cold while exploring indoor gardens, seasonal displays, and featured winter exhibitions in a serene setting.
🔗 Event Website: https://www.meijergardens.org/

 

🧘 Grand Rapids – Yoga + Beer at Founders Brewing Co.

📅 January 18, 2026
🕒 Morning
📍 Founders Brewing Company, Grand Rapids
🎟️ Admission: Ticketed
📄 Details: Start your Sunday with a guided yoga session followed by a refreshing craft beer in Founders’ iconic taproom.
🔗 Event Website: https://foundersbrewing.com/events/

 

🎶 Rockford – Live Music at Rockford Brewing Company

📅 January 16, 2026
🕒 Evening
📍 Rockford Brewing Company, Rockford
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Enjoy live local music in a relaxed brewery setting with craft beer, pub food, and a welcoming winter atmosphere — a favorite Friday night spot in Rockford.
🔗 Event Website: https://rockfordbrewing.com/events/

 


❄️ East Grand Rapids – Winter Walk at Reeds Lake

📅 January 18, 2026
🕒 Afternoon
📍 Reeds Lake Trail, East Grand Rapids
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Take a scenic winter stroll around Reeds Lake and enjoy peaceful views, fresh air, and a calm outdoor escape close to home.
🔗 Event Website: https://www.eastgr.org/

 

🎶 Rockford – Live Music at Rockford Brewing Company

📅 January 16, 2026
🕒 Evening
📍 Rockford Brewing Company, Rockford
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Enjoy live local music in a relaxed brewery setting with craft beer, pub food, and a welcoming winter atmosphere — a favorite Friday night spot in Rockford.
🔗 Event Website: https://rockfordbrewing.com/events/

 


❄️ East Grand Rapids – Winter Walk at Reeds Lake

📅 January 18, 2026
🕒 Afternoon
📍 Reeds Lake Trail, East Grand Rapids
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Take a scenic winter stroll around Reeds Lake and enjoy peaceful views, fresh air, and a calm outdoor escape close to home.
🔗 Event Website: https://www.eastgr.org/

 

🛍️ Hudsonville – Indoor Winter Farmers Market

📅 January 17, 2026
🕒 Morning
📍 Hudsonville Fairgrounds (Indoor)
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Shop local vendors offering baked goods, handmade items, seasonal foods, and crafts — all indoors and weather-friendly.
🔗 Event Website: https://www.hudsonville.org/events

 

🛍️ Ada – Ada Village Winter Shopping Days

📅 January 13–20, 2026
🕒 Store hours vary
📍 Ada Village, Ada
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Browse local boutiques, enjoy cozy dining spots, and take advantage of seasonal sales while supporting small businesses in Ada Village.
🔗 Event Website: https://adavilage.org/

 


🛒 Jenison – Local Makers & Small Business Market

📅 January 18, 2026
🕒 Afternoon
📍 Jenison Community Church or Civic Venue
🎟️ Admission: Free
📄 Details: Discover handmade goods, gifts, and locally owned businesses at this small-scale community market event.
🔗 Event Website: https://www.jenisonchamber.org/

 
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