Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Jennifer Hunt has been named president and CEO at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Kent County — bringing more than 22 years of leadership experience in state government and nonprofit roles.

Interim CEO Ellen Zoellner will assist in the transition.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is investing $250,000 in 50 food pantries including Second Harvest Food Pantry in Kentwood, which opened in April and now serves up to 650 families weekly; the pantry will receive up to $7,000 for refrigeration, tech assistance, nutrition education and dairy purchases.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport unveiled a $135 million terminal upgrade that introduces the nation’s first RFID-enabled self-service baggage check — starting Sept.

9, passengers on American, United and Frontier Airlines will experience improved capacity while the project supports over 1,350 in-state jobs.

GR Taco Shop, owned by Ashley Cano, will serve tacos, burritos and tortas along with full-service Mexican catering at Downtown Market this fall—replacing Tacos El Cuñado after 13 years there.

Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery in Grand Rapids will open its Dolly Parton-themed corn maze Tuesday, Sept.

1 at 10 a.m. to honor the singer after her Aug. 25 passing, with $10.50 admission proceeds benefiting Early Bird Books as part of the Imagination Library’s 31st anniversary.

Ferris State University has opened a new $38M Stadium Hall for freshmen—offering shared rooms, study areas, and lounges by the football field.

Students will begin moving in tomorrow as the university prepares for a vibrant on-campus experience.

Many West Michigan districts began classes earlier this month with half-day sessions held as early as Aug.

18 and full-day programs scheduled through Sept. 2, so families in counties such as (Kent, Allegan, Muskegon) should check their school calendars.

Thousands of GVSU students moved into dorms on Aug.

26 at the Valley Campus as Welcome Week began for the 2026-27 school year. About 2,000 students will arrive through Friday and the City Campus will welcome students on Friday with a Laker Kickoff + celebrations.

Kent County Sheriff's Sergeant Jon Paulson — who led the Cedar Springs unit for nearly two years — is leaving to join the Community Policing Department in downtown Grand Rapids and will host Kick It Forward, a soccer fundraiser for North Kent Connect, on Saturday, Aug.

29 at Red Hawks Stadium.

Canfield Clean Air for a Cause

Canfield Plumbing & Heating invites West Michigan residents to help a local family breathe easier through Clean Air for a Cause. Now through September 21, 2026, nominate a deserving household to receive a whole-home indoor air quality upgrade valued at up to $10,000, including equipment and professional installation. Self-nominations are welcome, and no purchase is necessary. Visit Canfield’s Clean Air for a Cause page to learn more and submit a nomination.