Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 18th of May.
Good morning, Grand Rapids.
Southwest Michigan inventor Edward Lowe created cat litter in 1947 by replacing sand with clay to keep homes clean for indoor cat owners—his idea, sold in 10 brown bags, grew into the Tidy Cat brand and a full line of pet products distributed locally and nationally.
Vee’s Grill and Coney Island—located at 10500 Chicago Dr.—recently added a new Hawaiian omelet made with pineapple, ham, jalapeños and cream cheese while keeping its welcoming, community spirit under new owner Josh Spicer-Swett.
The diner offers classic breakfast dishes and Detroit-style chili dogs, and its longtime staff—known for greeting customers by name—helps maintain a family-friendly atmosphere.
Grand Rapids police are investigating a Saturday morning shooting on Cedar Street that left a 28-year-old man shot three times, and his change in story—from saying he heard a boom on his porch to claiming he was at a street corner—has complicated the investigation.
Whitehall’s historic White River Light Station will open for its sesquicentennial season on May 22 and offer tower climbs and an onsite museum with daily hours until Sept.
7 — the 150-year-old brick lighthouse overlooks the White Lake Channel. A special celebration on June 21 will include music, food and a tribute from the state, and climb fees are $8 for adults with free access for military personnel and veterans — educational programs are also scheduled during the summer season.
The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids confirmed four tornadoes from Thursday evening storms — two EF-1 tornadoes in Dorr and Martin and two EF-0 tornadoes near Battle Creek.
Additional surveys will be conducted to assess further damage.
The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado touched down in Kent County and moved into Ionia County on Thursday.
It caused tree damage along a 14.5-mile path and damaged roofs near Campbell Lake — wind speeds reached 90 mph.
John Moreland Live Performance
7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket availability — Experience a night of acoustic storytelling with John Moreland and Ramsey Thornton.
Women in Marketing Panel Discussion
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. — L. William Seidman Center — $30 Members, $40 Future Members — Engage with an inspiring panel of female marketers discussing their unique challenges and experiences in the industry.
Griffins Playoff Game - Home Game 4
7:59-11:59 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices may vary — Watch the Grand Rapids Griffins battle it out in the playoffs at their home arena.
The Biz Accelerator Lab
8 AM - 3:45 PM — Grand Rapids Chamber — Check event page for pricing — Tackle burnout and boost growth with expert presentations tailored for entrepreneurs.
West Michigan Whitecaps vs. Great Lakes Loons
6:35-10:35 p.m. — LMCU Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement of minor league baseball in a thrilling matchup.
Griffins Playoff Game 1
7:59-11:59 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of playoff hockey with the Grand Rapids Griffins in their home opener.
Divine Service: The Sixth Sunday of Easter
10:00 – 11:15 AM — Messiah Lutheran Church — Free entry — Experience a meaningful worship service with livestream options and a Bible class beforehand.
Mobile Accessibility Testing Workshop by Ellen Mason
6-8 p.m. — Atomic Object — Free entry — Explore mobile accessibility testing techniques with expert guidance and hands-on demos.
Sessanta V2: Primus, Puscifer, and A Perfect Circle
7:30-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate Maynard James Keenan's 60th birthday with an unforgettable night of musical collaboration.
MIB International Networking Event in Grand Rapids
6-8 p.m. — Coopersville Creamery — Free entry — Empowering networking for women focused on business growth and support.
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