Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 16th of July.
Good morning, Grand Rapids.
Walker’s new fire chief Russell Shoultz said a house fire on Cummings Avenue SW around 4 a.m. Monday killed a cat and allowed only two people to escape because the home lacked a working smoke detector—he urges residents to install and test detectors regularly.
A Grand Rapids resident is suing Monster Beverage Corporation after allegedly finding a dead mouse in a Monster Energy drink can she bought in April 2024.
The lawsuit claims the beverage caused severe emotional distress, trauma and physical illness (the suit accuses the company of negligence, strict liability and breach of implied warranty).
Alleged shooter Keith Decelous-Leon Tett Jr.—26—waived his preliminary examination on Tuesday, July 15 and was ordered to stand trial for killing a man outside a Grand Rapids bar during a 1:30 a.m. altercation in May.
A 14-year-old boy was arrested for armed robbery at the Dollar General on 28th Street SW in Wyoming on July 14 at 1:35 p.m.—he wore a mask and gloves, showed a handgun, demanded money from the register, fled on foot with cash, and was taken into custody at a Grand Rapids home where police recovered the suspected weapon while he is now held at Kent County Juvenile Detention Center.
Grand Rapids was named the top spot on LinkedIn’s Cities on the Rise list for affordable job growth, with its booming tech and insurance industries drawing young workers.
The report noted major employers like Corewell Health, Grand Valley State University, and Meijer — and showed a strong local interest in culture.
Grand Rapids Public Schools cut 25 positions due to budget constraints, explained Superintendent Leadriane Roby in a July 2 letter to staff—this decision comes as the district faces ongoing financial challenges during a yearlong collective bargaining process with the union.
Officials identified the remains of U.S. Army Pvt.
Kenneth Kramer, a Michigan man who died as a prisoner of war in June 1942, on June 30 using dental tests+DNA analysis. His remains will be buried in Holly in October.
Corewell Health performed an incisionless focused ultrasound procedure on longtime patient Jayne Duseneang to help reduce her tremors—she now drinks without spilling and plans to have treatment on the other side of her brain later.
The procedure, the first of its kind in the state, came with short-term side effects such as balancing issues and mouth tingling.
Grandville athlete Divya Harkema, who has cerebral palsy, received a new racing wheelchair—presented by Paralympian Matt Scott—on Monday during The Hartford Nationals in Grand Rapids, raced in the 100-meter event at Calvin University, and will compete in swimming events later this week.
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.
Organ Fairchild Concert
8:30-11:30 p.m. — The Philmore South — Tickets available now — Experience the fast-rising NY band Organ Fairchild making waves in the music scene.
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