BELDING, Mich.--  A Belding family is bringing back a holiday tradition this Thanksgiving.

Robert Brown recently got the green light from the Belding City Council to set up an outdoor Christmas display spanning four properties on Jay Street. With the approval of Brown’s neighbors, council members agreed to suspend the city light and noise ordinance from Nov. 27 through Jan. 1 for Brown so he can run his light display, which will be active from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

Brown told the city council earlier this month that he wants to bring back the family tradition, which started in the early 70s.  He says Santa will be out front handing out candy canes, and Christmas music will be playing along with the display.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.-- The 2014-2015 school year is officially underway for West Michigan students.

On Sept. 2, which was the official start of classes for most schools, State Superintendent Mike Flanagan released this statement: 

"It’s a great day to be Back to School in Michigan !

Let me take a moment to wish everyone a positive and successful school year.

Our team here at the Michigan Department of Education, the State Board of Education, and I appreciate the hard work and daily dedication teachers, administrators, school board members, and other school staff devote to our children in Michigan.

GREENVILLE, Mich.—An idea pitched 50 years ago that has grown into an event that attracts more than 80,000 people to Greenville returns this weekend.

The first Danish Festival took place Aug. 18, 1965.  Dorothy Oliver dreamed up the event, as a way to celebrate Greenville’s Danish heritage.  Since its debut, the Danish Festival has grown into a three-day event, featuring dancing, eating contests, live concerts, games, hot air balloon flights and fireworks.   

The 2014 Danish Festival runs now through Aug. 17 throughout Greenville.  For a schedule of events, visit the festival website here.