Thursday, July 17th, 2025

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Good morning, Grand Rapids. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of July.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Plainfield Township is upgrading Grand Rogue Park with a $1.75 million project that adds ADA walkways, a new playground (for children ages 5–12), a pavilion, and upgraded river access on Grand Isle Drive NE. The park will reopen in late July with added canoe launches, expanded parking (80 spots), and more features to serve residents in the fall. MLive
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A recent LinkedIn study shows that Grand Rapids is the nation’s number one fastest growing city for jobs and new talent—drawing in young professionals with its growing tech scene and booming insurance field. Top employers named in the study include Corewell Health, Grand Valley State and Meijer. FOX 17
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives announced Wednesday it will move from Monroe Avenue to a larger building off Sheldon Avenue that is 15 times bigger than its 2,000-square-foot space. The museum team expects to move in and open to the public by the end of the year to serve as a cultural hub. WOOD TV
- ➤ A wreath-laying ceremony on Monday morning (July 14th) marked what would have been President Gerald R. Ford’s 112th birthday in Grand Rapids as family, former protectors, and the public gathered to remember the 38th president. WOOD TV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Dozens of Sibley Elementary teachers and parents went to Monday’s Board of Education meeting to talk about principal Roselyn Charles-Maher’s resignation after 28 years, as she left for another district due to low pay. Many said her leaving was a big loss—showing how much she meant to the school. MLive
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ MDARD is working to slow the spread of the spotted lanternfly by urging residents to report sightings outside confirmed areas and use pesticide experts if the pest appears on their property. The insect has been found in Oakland, Macomb, Monroe and Wayne counties and feeds on over 70 types of trees and plants—it does not harm animals or people. WOOD TV
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Grand Rapids approved a $959,684 contract with C and D Hughes Inc. to reconstruct Plainfield Avenue from Fuller Avenue to the I-96 ramp in early August with new pavement, sidewalks, ADA ramps, bike lanes, curbs, gutters and street trees. The project is coordinated with an MDOT resurfacing segment and involves Grand Rapids Township + Plainfield Township. MLive
SPORTS NEWS
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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Good Day Grand Rapids.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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T-Rex Fest Featuring The Fever Haze
4:30-6:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a vibrant concert by The Fever Haze with their engaging music and lyrics.
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