Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 4th of September.
Good morning, Grand Rapids.
On September 3, the Scripps Howard Foundation matched donations up to $200,000 for the Give a Child a Book campaign during National Literacy Month to help kids in West Michigan get more books — every $6 donated bought two books.
The effort supported students at Grand Rapids Public Schools.
Michigan's wealthiest billionaires are using a lucrative tax incentive to fund large downtown projects—one example is the $184 million riverfront venue in Grand Rapids set to open in May.
They are relying on tax dollars to reshape Michigan's urban centers.
Niko Rey Mena, 22, was sentenced to 38 months to 10 years in prison on Sept.
3 for shooting a 36-year-old worker at the Admiral gas station on S. Division Ave in March 2024 — he was convicted on charges of carrying a concealed weapon and felony firearm while an attempted murder charge was dismissed.
GVSU police reported a stabbing behind Kistler Living Center early Sunday that left two victims with minor injuries — and they also investigated two car thefts from Lot D on Aug.
26 as students felt uneasy about campus safety.
Niko Rey Mena pleaded no contest in a 2024 shooting at the Admiral gas station in Wyoming when he shot Willis Booker, a Grand Rapids gas station employee who suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was treated in hospital—he received his sentence after being denied bond for posing a danger to society.
Two West Michigan moms are traveling to New York City this weekend so their sons—11-year-old Blake and 7-year-old Levi—will appear on Times Square screens during the National Down Syndrome Society event.
Their photos were chosen among 500 entries from more than 2,500 submissions nationwide to raise awareness.
Developers presented a revised plan for Gaslight Village in East Grand Rapids on Tuesday evening that dropped one building, expanded another, added a social hub and changed vehicle paths — residents voiced concerns during the public comment period and commissioners postponed further discussion until Sept. 15.
Dr. Diana Bitner from True Women's Health said telehealth helps women receive menopause care by connecting them to doctors via phone and video calls at a Michigan Women’s Commission meeting in Marquette.
She explained that although telehealth is available for Medicaid and Medicare patients, challenges like limited internet access and no physical exams remain—prompting providers to carefully weigh convenience with quality.
Limewired - A 2000's Dance Party
9-10:30 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Ages 21+ only — Dance the night away to your favorite hits from the 2000s.
Brooke Alexx Live Performance
7-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Tickets available — Experience the candid and catchy pop sounds of Brooke Alexx as she shares the highs and lows of life in her music.
Last Chance BQ.2 - Grand Rapids 2025
7-11 a.m. — Millennium Park — Limited to 330 runners — A premier marathon event aiming to help participants qualify for Boston 2026.
The Milk Carton Kids Concert
7-10 p.m. — St. Cecilia Music Center — Ticket information available — Experience the ethereal harmonies and intricate musicianship of The Milk Carton Kids.
Tee Grizzley Live
8-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Get ready for a captivating night with Tee Grizzley as he shares gripping stories through his music.
Gabe Lee with King Margo
7:30 PM – 1:30 AM — Midtown GR — Ticketed event — Experience Gabe Lee's storytelling through music alongside King Margo in an intimate setting.
The Machine Performs Pink Floyd
8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Intersection — Cost unknown — Experience the musical legacy of Pink Floyd with a captivating performance by The Machine.
Come Back To Earth - Tribute to Mac Miller
8-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Tickets available — Experience the heartfelt performances of the world's first Mac Miller tribute band.
Scoochie Boochie & Groovebox
7-8:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets start at $76 — Enjoy an unforgettable night with Scoochie Boochie and Groovebox in Grand Rapids.
Peach Pit Live
8-9:30 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience the emotionally resonant indie rock sounds of Peach Pit featuring their latest album, Magpie.
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