Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 15th of July.
Good morning, Grand Rapids.
💼 Business
Flanagan's Irish Pub in downtown Grand Rapids is listed for sale at $4M after its license was suspended for failing to pay a $1,000 fine, and a notice posted on the building stated a temporary closure with plans to reopen as a local gathering place.
The building at 139 Pearl St. NW is described as a boutique hotel with three bedrooms & two bathrooms.
Grand Valley State University received $1.6 million from a $60 million state fund for entrepreneurship and startups to create an evergreen venture fund for West Michigan startups—boosting local business growth.
The university will use the investment to support new company ventures in the region.
Grand Rapids launched a two-year Micro Local Business Enterprise Bonding Pilot Program to help certified construction businesses bid on larger projects.
Eight businesses will be chosen on a first-come basis and receive technical help — including subsidized CPA services — to secure bonds from partner agencies.
Celebration Cinema Rivertown has finished phase one of its $5 million renovations — including new luxury heated recliners and updated corridors — and is offering free popcorn with a movie ticket on Saturday for a refreshed movie experience.
Phase two will add a new lobby, bar and kitchen to complete the updates.
🎭 Culture
A wreath-laying ceremony was held to honor President Gerald R.
Ford on what would have been his 112th birthday (July 14) at his tomb in Grand Rapids, marking a moment to remember his legacy.
🎓 Education
West Michigan Works! is accepting applications for its Medical Assistant Registered Apprenticeship Program until Sept.
8 — a paid, year-long opportunity that has enabled over 170 graduates to secure jobs in hospitals and clinics across West Michigan.
🌲 Environment
Farmers in West Michigan are facing moderate drought conditions that have dried soils and stressed crops as spotty rain and heat challenge their growing season.
Theresa Sisung of the Michigan Farm Bureau said farmers are closely watching their irrigation systems—hoping for rain to avoid a poor crop yield and economic setbacks.
🏛️ Government
Grattan Township residents will vote on Aug.
5 on proposals for a new fire department millage, a farmland preservation millage, and an ordinance allowing new home development — measures that aim to fund essential services and manage land use.
🏥 Health
Health experts in Grand Rapids say new moms and dads should check for perinatal mood disorder during pregnancy and after childbirth since symptoms may look like baby blues but can turn more severe.
They note that about one in five women—and one in ten men—can experience these moods, with research showing one in three Black or Indigenous women are affected and care available through counseling and medication.
🎉 Grand Rapids Events
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Ditch Lily Live Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets from $34.00 — Experience Ditch Lily perform live without any hidden fees.
Donate Life Night at the Zoo
6-9 p.m. — John Ball Zoo — $5 suggested donation — Celebrate life while exploring the zoo after-hours and enjoying sweet treats with community partners.
Five Iron Frenzy Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — All ages welcome — Enjoy a night of ska and punk music with Five Iron Frenzy and support from Boy Detective.
Grand Rapids Trail Run
7:30-11:30 a.m. — Robinette's Apple Haus & Winery — Registration required — Enjoy scenic trails as you challenge yourself in a 5K, 9K, or 18K run/hike.
Oddities & Curiosities Expo
10:00 – 11:30 a.m. — DeVos Place — Ticket prices vary — Explore the bizarre at this unique expo featuring oddities and curiosities.
Youth Baseball Skill Development Camp
9 AM – 3 PM — Cornerstone University — Tuition based — Improve baseball skills with experienced coaches and CU players in a fun summer camp setting.
REDFERRIN Live in Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices TBD — Experience the electrifying sounds of Warner Music Nashville’s rising star Redferrin and his unique blend of country and hip-hop.
Coconut Telegraph: A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show
7 PM – 1 AM — Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm — Ticket price not listed — Experience the festive vibes of a Jimmy Buffett concert replicated in a tribute performance.
Low Down Revival
7-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Tickets from $12.25 — Enjoy a lively night of bluegrass and southern rock with the Chattanooga band Low Down Revival.
LOCASH Concert
7-9 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket information not provided — Experience the iconic country music duo as they launch their new record label and perform popular hits.
🏠 Grand Rapids Real Estate
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💼 Grand Rapids Job Board
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📣 Grand Rapids Announcements
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