Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Robert and Betty Jensen celebrated 81 years of marriage Tuesday, Jan.

27 in Stanwood + they still live in the home Robert built over 75 years ago.

Six major projects are reshaping the riverfront in Grand Rapids with the nearly complete Acrisure Amphitheater, ongoing work at Amway Stadium, and an 85-mile trail network plus other upgrades.

Construction and planning are progressing, with some projects finishing by Memorial Day and others set for summer and fall.

Today, Russ’ Restaurant offers free breakfast from 6:30 to 11 a.m. at all 12 locations for plow drivers, emergency responders and tow truck drivers amid an ongoing winter advisory, serving a menu of two eggs, bacon and sausage, toast and a beverage.

Heavy lake effect snow and strong winds forced multi-vehicle crashes that closed eastbound M-6 at Broadmoor Avenue, I-196 at 109th Avenue near Glenn, and westbound I-94 at Westnedge Avenue on Tuesday morning (no serious injuries were reported).

Dave Matthews Band will perform two concerts on July 7-8 at Acrisure Amphitheater (a new 12,000-capacity venue in downtown Grand Rapids).

Tickets go on sale February 20 at 10 a.m. via Ticketmaster.

The 28th Annual Michigan International Auto Show runs from Thursday, Jan.

29 to Sunday, Feb. 1 at DeVos Place, showcasing vehicles from over 30 manufacturers, electric cars in Electric Avenue, and a luxury section with elite models (including Aston Martins). Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for kids 6-14.

After weeks of steady declines, gas prices are rising today as shifts in oil markets affect local rates.

Current earnings in Kent ($2.86/gallon), Muskegon ($2.71), Ottawa ($2.67) and Kalamazoo ($2.88) suggest drivers may save by filling up on weekends.

Sixteen West Michigan school districts spread across Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and Allegan counties show above-average four-year degree rates among 2018 graduates, with East Grand Rapids Public Schools topping the list at over 70% (the highest based on state data through 2024).

Grand Rapids Public Schools trustee Arick Davis resigned on Jan.

23—prompting the board to accept applications for a replacement by Feb. 4 who will serve through Dec. 31, 2026.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said Tuesday that her father, Richard Whitmer, died Monday night.

She recalled his work in nonprofits and public service and credited him with inspiring her education and government career.

Dr. Mohammed Saleh, a Syrian-American physician from West Michigan, is on a week-long mission with SAMS to help rebuild Syria's healthcare by providing check-ups and medications to conflict-affected patients; he will return Thursday and plans to continue his efforts.

The West Michigan Sports Commission said that despite fewer events than last year, youth and amateur sports tourism generated $83.5 million and attracted 300,659 visitors in 2025.

The commission will boost the region's sports tourism with new facility developments and additional events in the coming years.

Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert

6:30-7:45 p.m. — Wealthy Theatre — Get your tickets now to experience the harmonic soundscapes of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons illuminated by candlelight.

Grand Rapids Weekend to Remember

Jan 30- Feb 1 — Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton — Registration required — Discover oneness in your marriage through inspiring talks and retreats.

The Emperor and the Swan - DTE Family Concert

10 AM - 1 PM — East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center — Family-friendly event — Experience a delightful musical journey with the Grand Rapids Symphony.

Practicing Resilience in a Complex World

6 p.m. — Postma Center at Pine Rest — Free entry — Connect with the Fuller community over conversation and heavy appetizers while learning about local mental health initiatives.

Keith Scott Blues Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Third Nature Brewing Company — Check website for entry cost — Enjoy a night of dynamic blues with Chicago's own Keith Scott, a seasoned artist with over 40 years of experience.

Groundhog Day Marathon and Half Marathon

8 AM – 2 PM — The Meadows at Millennium Park — Registration required — Embrace winter with a race alongside Grand Rapids' own groundhog Gus.

2026 World of Winter Festival

9 AM – 11 PM — Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. — Free entry — Experience the largest winter festival in the Midwest filled with stunning art, performances, and fun activities for everyone.

Comedy at the Club

8:00 p.m. — Gilda's Club Grand Rapids — $25 — The Family Improv Workshop offers an evening full of laughter for all ages.

Magic and Comedy Date Night

9:00 – 10:30 PM — AllArtWorks Viewing Studio — $25 — Experience a unique blend of magic, comedy, and poetry this Valentine’s night.

2026 World of Winter Festival

9 AM – 11 PM — Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. — Free entry — Experience a vibrant winter wonderland with light installations, performances, and activities for all ages.