Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Today, local West Michigan eateries offer free meals and discounts for veterans and active-duty service members—deals include free breakfasts, discounted diner bills, and meal promos at select restaurants that may require military ID.

Offers come from businesses such as Anna’s House, Bear Lake Tavern, Blue Porch Bar & Grill, and others.

A Grand Rapids woman who relies on grocery delivery due to her disability said her SNAP benefits stopped working on the Meijer app last Friday when her EBT card failed, leaving her order cancelled.

Meijer said its technology team is working to fix the glitch — customers can complete their orders using other platforms in the meantime.

Operation Green Light lit up homes across Kent County this week to honor veterans on Veterans Day.

Veteran Reginald Farrior (an ex-homeless serviceman who now works at Kent County Veterans Services) leads the campaign to help veterans feel recognized.

Downtown Grand Rapids hotels made record room revenue in 2024 as the Amway Grand Plaza earned $29.6 million while 22 new hotels opened countywide and lowered occupancy rates.

County records show room rates rose slightly and Airbnb revenue jumped to $11.9 million from 2019—adding extra pressure on older hotels.

News 8 produced a series of stories in the days leading up to November 10 — the 50th anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald sinking — with witnesses sharing personal memories of watching the iconic ship.

Jane Curtis recalled her father’s farewell to the crew and Betty Shannon described her deep dive to view the wreck — a reminder of the ship’s lasting impact on the Great Lakes community.

Travelers at Gerald R.

Ford International Airport faced delays and cancellations this past weekend due to government-mandated flight cuts—causing a ripple effect across major hubs. Officials and travel agents warned that holiday trips may face further uncertainty—prompting many to reconsider their plans.

The Michigan Department of Transportation now offers a MiDrive map that shows where plows are clearing roads, details traffic speeds, and marks accident spots after the recent snowfall.

Locals can use the tool to check real-time road conditions statewide—helping plan safe trips.

West Michiganders responded on Nov 10 to the Supreme Court's ruling not to review a case challenging marriage equality—this decision kept current rights for same-sex couples in place.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said eligible residents will now get full SNAP benefits.

Recipients who normally receive payments on the 9th will get their funds within 48 hours while those on other dates get payments as scheduled (recipients on the 3rd, 5th and 7th already received payment), following federal judge rulings amid the ongoing government shutdown and as Senate lawmakers move toward a vote to reopen the government on Monday.

A Michigan State University study found that one in six pregnant women in Michigan use cannabis—most often to relieve nausea and stress, though experts warn it may lead to low birth weight and developmental delays.

The study, which tested over 1,000 women using self-reported data and urine tests, is expected to guide future public health campaigns.

Bird flu was found in a commercial flock in Allegan County, marking the second high pathogenic case since 2022, and state officials urged poultry owners to clean equipment and follow guidelines—such as washing boots—to slow the virus spread.

The Brokes Tribute to The Strokes

8-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Ticketed event — Experience a stellar tribute to one of rock's most iconic bands with energy and precision.

Lotus Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience Lotus’s blend of electronic dance music and improvisation in an electrifying live show.

YDG Live Performance

9-10:30 p.m. — Elevation — Tickets available — Experience the versatile sounds of YDG as he rises in the underground bass community with electrifying performances.

Grand Rapids Gold vs. Motor City Cruise

7-8:30 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — $20+ — Enjoy an exciting matchup as local favorites Grand Rapids Gold take on Motor City Cruise in an evening of professional basketball.

Anne Wilson Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience inspiring music from rising Christian artist Anne Wilson in an intimate venue.

West Michigan Lutheran Science Day

9:30 AM – 1:35 PM — West Michigan Lutheran High School — Registration required — Engage in hands-on water-based science experiments for students in grades 5–8.

QuickBooks Online Training

1-5 p.m. — Grand Rapids Office — Cost not listed — Level up your accounting skills with hands-on training in QuickBooks Online.

Christkindl Markt 2025

8-9 p.m. — Grand Rapids Downtown Market — Free entry — Experience the magic of a traditional European Christmas village with artisan vendors and holiday cheer.

Charlotte Checkers vs Grand Rapids Griffins

7-8:30 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Watch the action live on FloHockey as two top teams face off on the ice.

Made Market - Grand Rapids Holiday Market

10 AM - 5 PM — Goei Center — Free entry — Explore 60+ local makers and their unique, handmade goods this holiday season.