Grand Rapids

Mercantile Bank Corp reported Q2 earnings of $25.9 million, exceeding Wall Street expectations with $1.53 per share adjusted for non-recurring costs. The company's revenue was $98.2 million, but its revenue net of interest expense fell short of forecasts at $68.8 million.

Michigan gas prices have risen 20 cents since last week, averaging $4.15 per gallon for regular unleaded. Metro Detroit drivers pay $4.09 per gallon, while Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Benton Harbor report the highest prices at $4.20 and $4.19. Domestic gasoline supply decreased to 210.5 million barrels, with demand remaining steady at 8.84 million barrels.

Michigan gas prices have increased 20 cents since last week, averaging $4.15 per gallon. Metro Detroit's average is $4.09, with Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Benton Harbor having the highest prices, while Marquette, Metro Detroit, and Traverse City have the lowest.

Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez attended a rally in Lansing, Michigan, to support Abdul El-Sayed's Senate campaign, emphasizing his electability against Haley Stevens in the August primary and Mike Rogers in the November general election. The rally was part of a broader progressive effort to bolster El-Sayed's viability in the race.

Republicans John James, Mike Cox, and Perry Johnson debated in Grand Rapids, focusing on artificial intelligence and diversity, equity, and inclusion. The debate highlighted disagreements among the candidates on these issues.

A live debate featuring Michigan GOP gubernatorial candidates Perry Johnson, John James, and Mike Cox is occurring in Grand Rapids.

Dr. Abdul El-Sayed and Representative Haley Stevens met in Grand Rapids for their first Democratic primary debate following the withdrawal of a third candidate.

Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens debated in a televised Democratic U.S. Senate primary contest in Grand Rapids, focusing on healthcare, affordability, and childcare costs. El-Sayed advocated for Medicare for All and anti-monopoly policies, while Stevens emphasized lowering utility bills and securing federal funds for childcare.

Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens, Michigan Democratic US Senate candidates, debated in Grand Rapids. The debate was their first since Mallory McMorrow exited the race.

A newborn baby was found dead inside a portable restroom at the Electric Forest music festival in Rothbury by an employee of the restroom vending company. Michigan State Police are investigating and have asked the public for assistance with any relevant information.

Gas prices in Michigan have dropped by 18 cents compared to a week ago, averaging $4.01 per gallon for regular unleaded. Prices are 73 cents lower than last month but 72 cents higher than June 2022, with Metro Detroit and Ann Arbor reporting the highest averages at $4.12. Domestic gasoline supply decreased slightly while demand increased, according to the Energy Information Administration.

Founders Brewing Co. is releasing a limited-edition KBS Bourbon, aged in American oak and finished in barrels previously used for its popular KBS stout. The bourbon, described as smooth and rich with vanilla, oak, chocolate, and roasted coffee notes, will be available in limited quantities in Grand Rapids and select locations. Founders previously collaborated with Bardstown Bourbon Company to finish bourbon in KBS barrels.

Michigan introduces free housing for early childhood educators in Battle Creek through the First Home, First Teacher initiative and opens an early childhood education center at a transit hub in Grand Rapids. The programs aim to address workforce shortages and low pay in the early childhood education sector, inspired by a similar initiative in Connecticut.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is implementing a new policy that may impact mental health care access, particularly for practices employing large numbers of limited-license professionals. Grand Rapids therapist Jacob Moon warns the policy could 'sink' such practices.

Grand Rapids will begin demolishing four dams in downtown to restore the natural flow of the Grand River on July 1, following over a decade of planning. The article questions how the project will prevent lamprey from entering the restored rapids.

The Supreme Court rejected a police officer's attempt to dismiss an excessive force claim arising from a George Floyd protest in Grand Rapids, Michigan on May 30, 2020. The decision allows the claim to proceed, highlighting ongoing legal scrutiny of law enforcement actions during protests.