Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Local leaders in Ada Township say that community support and the new Love Your Local campaign are helping small businesses battle rising costs and big-chain competition — meetings and local promotions are boosting sales and keeping dollars in the town.

The Ada Pharmacy co-owner added that strong customer ties are key to local business success.

Hunt 2 Heal is hosting an open house today from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at its adaptive hunting lodge in Bitely—this free event gives people a chance to try accessible equipment and tour 640 acres of barrier-free land.

Attendees must RSVP as space is limited.

The Green Well will close its doors for good on Saturday, Aug.

16 as its parent company—Essence Hospitality Group—shifts its focus to other ventures including Bistro Bella Vita, Lucy's and Grove. Staff members are expected to be reassigned to the other restaurants when possible.

Taqueria Chilango, which started as a food truck near Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop, now serves authentic Mexican street tacos at the Underground Bar on Bridge St NW and earned the Best Food Truck award in Grand Rapids 2025—its popular taco al pastor is priced at $5.50.

The eatery operates Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m., Friday from 4 to 10 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., with plans to eventually open a brick-and-mortar location.

Bowerman’s Blueberry Farm in Holland saw less than two inches of rain since June 1 and is in a severe drought that has raised temperatures near 100 degrees.

Andrew Van Til said the farm uses irrigation—along with a market, bakery and restaurant—to help the business survive the dry weather.

Angela Fitzgerald, 45, was charged with eight counts including operating under the influence after her bus carrying Grand Rapids Civic Theatre students and staff crashed on I-96 near Kent St. in Portland Township on March 29, injuring four students and prompting her to be released on bond with a court return later this month.

A state judge blocked shipments of TENORM—low-level radioactive waste—from reaching the Wayne Disposal Inc landfill in Van Buren Township on Sept.

4 due to concerns that waste from cleanup sites in five states could harm local communities and water. Local officials praised the decision as it stops plans to import materials that could create long-term environmental risks.

Rep. Haley Stevens will introduce the Plastic Health Research Act this week—promising $10 million each year from 2026 through 2030—to fund studies on how plastic exposure may affect health.

The bipartisan bill will support grants for nonprofit and academic groups to address data gaps in public health while considering federal budget challenges.

An old industrial factory on Front Avenue NW is being converted by Pinnacle Construction Group into a 35-unit loft-style apartment complex named Clipper Lofts.

The project overcame significant design challenges to adapt the riverfront space with large floor-to-ceiling windows—efforts that aim to help address the local housing shortage.

Jake Scott Live

7-9 p.m. — Elevation — Ticketed event — Experience a multi-platinum artist's heartfelt storytelling and memorable performances.

August Wine School at Reds

7-9 p.m. — Reds at Thousand Oaks — $55 per person — Experience an evening of wine education with five pours and small plates inspired by Tuscany.

Karl Denson's Tiny Universe Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Elevation — Cost not specified — Experience a night of electrifying music from a legendary band with over 25 years in the industry.

The Last Call Band

7-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — $6.63 — Enjoy an evening of Americana music with The Last Call Band in a cozy venue.

Eddie Gossling Comedy Show

7:15-8:45 p.m. — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Ticket prices available — Enjoy a night of laughter with Eddie Gossling's stand-up performance.

Eddie Gossling Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:15-8:45 p.m. — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Tickets available — Laugh along with Eddie Gossling as he delivers his hilarious takes on life.

Imminent Sonic Destruction Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Entry cost varies — Experience a night of music with Whirlwind by Entransient and emotional lyrical storytelling.

The Pink Stones Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Check for cover — Experience the unique blend of honkytonk, trucker anthems, and gospel from The Pink Stones.

Member Nights at John Ball Zoo

6-8 p.m. — John Ball Zoo — Membership required — Enjoy exclusive member activities including zip lines, ropes courses, and special animal events.

Conversations, Un-Corked: Chapter IV - The Iconic Wines of Emidio Pepe

7-9 p.m. — Grand Vin — $125 per person — Experience the elegance of Emidio Pepe’s wines with unique tastings and gourmet charcuterie.