1. With Thanksgiving almost here, there’s a busy day ahead at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
So to thank passengers for traveling, airport volunteers, therapy dog teams and the Patriot Guard Riders, are celebrating “Operation Hand Shake.”
Airport staff will pass out treats to thank passengers, and greet troops and veterans to thank them for their service.
The event is happening until 7 p.m.
2. President Obama is continuing the traditional Thanksgiving pardon. He’ll continue the grace he showed in receiving president-elect Donald Trump at the White House by inviting a red-state turkey.
The lucky bird hails from Iowa, which 52 percent voted for Trump.
Obama will get to name his new feathered friend, with four choices offered by the classmates of the producer’s children.
The pardoned turkey will retire to a Virginia Tech Teaching farm.
3. The Right Place and Hello West Michigan are teaming up for a job fair!
They’re targeting people who used to live in West Michigan, and are planning to be in town for Thanksgiving. It’s all in an effort to get them to move back to the area and work here.
Lots of companies will be looking to hire, including Consumers Credit Union, Amway, Spectrum Health, and Spartan Nash.
The fair is happening on the fourth floor of The B.O.B. in downtown Grand Rapids from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
The fair is free to attend, but you need to register online.
4. There’s still time to register for Grand Rapids Public School’s annual Turkey Trot.
The race starts at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day at Van Andel Arena. The Turkey Trot is a 5K, but people can sign up for a 1K Mini Trot.
All the proceeds will go to support GRPS Athletics to help students “pay to play.”
Last year the event raised about $50,000. Registration costs $30, but increases to $35 the day of the race.
5. Mel Trotter is hosting its annual Thanksgiving Banquet on Thursday.
Doors open at 10:30 a.m. at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids. Complimentary meals, with all the holiday trimmings, will be served between 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
They're expecting to feed as many as 2,000 people.
For more details you can go to MelTrotter.org/thanksgiving.
