Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 18th of July.
Good morning, Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Public Library is asking residents to complete an online survey from July 13 to 25 to help update operating hours across its eight branches — no staff layoffs or closures are planned.
The survey feedback will guide the library’s new strategic plan to better serve the community.
Some people facing homelessness in Grand Rapids struggle with high AC costs amid smoke and heat, prompting Mel Trotter Ministries to open a cooling center and distribute N95 masks to those affected (Mel Trotter CEO Chris Palusky noted more people seeking shelter).
Moviegoers gathered early Friday at Celebration Cinema North to see Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey shown in a rare 70mm IMAX format — the film offers resolution 7 times sharper than digital and revives the shared theater experience.
Wildfire smoke from nearly one million acres burning in Canada and Minnesota has drifted into West Michigan recently, a GVSU professor explained; he said rising temperatures may extend fire seasons as remote fires (55,000 acres in Minnesota and 800,000 in Ontario) are too costly and risky to fight.
Wildfire smoke from Canada has lowered air quality in West Michigan, causing some east Grand Rapids neighbors and those around Reeds Lake to cancel outdoor plans—while others continue as usual.
Local leaders urge residents to follow health guidelines and call for stronger US-Canada wildfire management.
Plainfield Township voters will decide on Aug.
4 whether to renew a millage that funds 9 miles of non-motorized trails, including the Jupiter and Rockford trails — a measure that supports safe local recreation with property tax contributions.
Today, heavy wildfire smoke has led to hazardous air quality across parts of the region, with experts saying that breathing polluted air for a day can be like smoking several cigarettes.
Health officials advise residents with lung conditions + seniors to stay indoors + limit outdoor activities.
Federal health officials advise Michigan residents to avoid Taco Bell's shredded iceberg lettuce after 190 people reportedly fell ill before July 13 (linked to a single Mexican supplier) amid ongoing multistate Cyclospora investigations.
Due to hazardous wildfire smoke, the World Cup final watch party moved from Acrisure Amphitheater to Van Andel Arena on Sunday, with doors opening at 2 p.m. and the match at 3 p.m. — ticket holders from the old venue will have their tickets honored.
Buddy Guy Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Meijer Gardens — Tickets starting at $129 — Experience the legendary blues artist Buddy Guy live in concert.
Johnny Mullenax Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Tickets available — Experience a funky country bluegrass good time with Johnny Mullenax, a genre-bending musician from Tulsa.
Grand Rapids Symphony: Star Wars - The Empire Strikes Back In Concert
7:30-10:30 PM — Acrisure Amphitheater — Check event page for pricing — Experience the iconic score live as the classic film unfolds on the big screen.
The Format Live Concert
12-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices vary — Experience the musical rebirth of The Format as they debut new songs and celebrate their roots.
Grand Rapids Speed Dating Event for Singles in Their 40s and 50s
6-8 p.m. — O'Toole's Public House — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Little Stranger Live Concert
8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic alt indie hip-hop duo bringing their unique sound to Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Ballet School: Adult Summer Showcase
8:15-11:15 p.m. — Peter Martin Wege Theatre — Cost not specified — Celebrate the artistry and dedication of adult dancers after a week of intensive ballet training.
VIP Album Signing with Lou Gramm
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Acrisure Amphitheater — Concert tickets sold separately — Meet the legendary singer Lou Gramm up close and get your album signed.
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