Grand Rapids Public Museum announces new upcoming exhibition
On Wednesday, the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced that it will be hosting an exhibition called Bugs beginning in October. This traveling exhibition, which was created by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa and Wētā Workshop, will allow visitors to the GRPM to "enter a colorful, magical space, marvel at large-scale bug models, and explore hands-on science."
The press release states that Bugs is centered around four insects: the orchid mantis, jewel wasp, dragonfly, and bee. This exhibition also explores how humanity can learn from these insects. According to Sir Richard Taylor, the CEO & co-founder of Wētā Workshop and co-creator of the Bugs exhibition:
"For 450 million years, bugs have been getting smarter. From brain surgery to teamwork to the power of flight -- they really can do it all. Now they're sharing their genius to help humans make the world a better place."
Bugs will be opening at the Grand Rapids Public Museum on Tuesday, Oct. 14 and will run through Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024. For more information, visit the GRPM's website.
Jeremiah Gracia to step down as Economic Development Director for the City of Grand Rapids
On Thursday, the City of Grand Rapids announced the upcoming departure of Jeremiah Gracia, the City's Economic Development Director.
Gracia, who has been in his current role since 2020, will be taking a position as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Dublin, Ohio. In Thursday's press release, Gracia stated that:
"I am most appreciative to the City of Grand Rapids and the community for the opportunity to serve. My experience leading the economic development department has been very rewarding. The team is passionate and dedicated to Grand Rapids. I know they will continue to do great things for the City for many years to come."
Additionally, the City of Grand Rapids announced that Jono Klooster, the current Assistant Economic Development Director, will take over as the interim Economic Development Director.
Gracia will be stepping down on Wednesday, Oct. 4.
For more information, visit the City's website.
Also in the News:
- The Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) is looking for information from the community following the death of 19-year-old Alana Vasquez. According to a press release that was sent out by the GRPD on Tuesday, Vasquez's death has been ruled a homicide by the Kent County Medical Examiner. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GRPD at (616) 456-3380 or Silent Observer at (616) 774-2345.
- The City of Grand Rapids has announced that the next Commission Night Event will be taking place at the Goei Center on Tuesday, Sept. 19. For more information, visit the City's website.
- The Grand Rapids City Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 5. The agenda is available on the City's website and the livestream can be viewed on the City's YouTube channel.
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