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Thursday, February 12th, 2026

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Good morning, Grand Rapids. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 12th of February.

COMMUNITY NEWS

  • Auburn Hills Historic District, founded in the 1960s by Black pioneers facing housing discrimination, was added to the National Register of Historic Places on Jan. 30 — the only Kent County site recognized this year.  ABC 13
  • Holland Ice Park has drawn thousands since its November opening and sold over 26,000 skate tickets, generating up to $300k in revenue; the park will operate through mid-March and later transform for wheeled activities with a learn-to-bike program by Velo Kids + summer concerts and movies.  FOX 17

BUSINESS NEWS

  • The Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority approved a $25,000 grant for Earthly Refillery at Studio Park to cover half its rent for 18 months (the owner plans to install a kitchen to expand offerings).  MLive

EDUCATION NEWS

  • Gov. Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in Lansing that restricts smartphone use during school hours (with exceptions for emergencies, medical needs, and educational use). School districts must set up a policy by next school year.  ABC 13
  • Governor Whitmer’s final budget includes $625M for her Every Child Reads literacy program; TalentFirst has started an Adopt-a-Classroom grant program to supply elementary schools with classroom libraries (including recipients in Muskegon, Ottawa, Mason, and Kent Counties).  ABC 13
  • Arianna Escribano, a Lee High School senior and bowling team captain with a 4.2 GPA, got involved after her math teacher encouraged her and now plans to study microbiology at University of Michigan—she also plays softball and participates in many extracurriculars as the high school playoffs approach.  ABC 13

HEALTH NEWS

  • Dr. Diana Bitner, chief medical officer at True Women's Health, explains how cholesterol plaques build in arteries while raising awareness for Heart Month. Her message encourages local residents to check risk factors today.  FOX 17

REAL ESTATE NEWS

  • Rising temperatures melt snow that can seep into basements across West Michigan, causing water damage and potential mold; experts advise homeowners to inspect for dark spots, musty odors, and cracks while testing sump pumps to prevent costly repairs.  FOX 17

SPORTS NEWS

  • Team USA's men's hockey team, featuring six Michigan natives (from Shelby Township, Orchard Lake, Canton, Waterford, and Grosse Pointe Woods), is competing in the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics preliminary round. They play today at 3:10 p.m. ET against Latvia in Group C and will face Denmark and Germany soon.  ABC 13

EVENTS

SUBMIT EVENT
  • 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.

    Fri, 2/13/26

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  • 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.

    Sat, 2/14/26

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  • 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.

    Sun, 2/15/26

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  • SAS Vendor Exhibit & Trade Show 2026

    12 PM – 6 PM — DeVos Place — Exhibit participation cost varies — Explore innovations in analytics and software at this vibrant industry trade show.

    Wed, 2/18/26

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  • Trey Kennedy - The Relatable Tour

    7-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Trey Kennedy's humorous storytelling and audience interactions.

    Thu, 2/19/26

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  • The Lou Fighters and Blender

    8-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience high-energy rock from The Lou Fighters and unique 90's hits with Bender The Blender.

    Fri, 2/20/26

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  • Kameron Marlowe Live Concert

    7-9:30 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening with country singer Kameron Marlowe known for his heartfelt performances and rich vocal style.

    Sat, 2/21/26

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  • Manitoba Moose vs. Grand Rapids Griffins

    7-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Tickets available — Celebrate the Griffins’ milestone season with an exciting match against the Manitoba Moose.

    Wed, 2/25/26

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  • Ole 60 Concert

    7-10 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Tickets from $73 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Ole 60 in vibrant Grand Rapids.

    Thu, 2/26/26

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  • Beer Fest Pre-Party

    6-9 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — All ages welcome — Enjoy a night of live music featuring local breweries before the Winter Beerfest.

    Fri, 2/27/26

    View event

REAL ESTATE

SUBMIT LISTING

No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.

JOB BOARD

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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