Grand Rapids Public Schools board picks Allison Tingwall as next superintendent

If you've missed a riverfront stroll downtown, Canal Park is open again. The overhaul added a playground, an enclosed pavilion, wider paths and scenic overlooks, and it took down the fencing that limited direct access to the Grand River. There's also an accessible kayak launch, seating and more green space.

“It’s a very, very inviting space and great for gathering.”

Kristin Pfauth, city of Grand Rapids project manager

Pfauth told WOOD the goal was to get people back engaged with nature and the river. What was a small pocket park now has more green space, raised elevation and a playscape.

• Where: 905 Monroe Ave. NW
• Length: more than half a mile of riverfront

Police say a man found in Florida is now charged in the Sept. 2 shooting death of Alexander Jones, 39. Sharmarieo Williams, 42, was extradited to Michigan on a charge of open murder, according to the Grand Rapids Police Department. WOOD reports he's been in Michigan since earlier this month.

Jones was found shot in the 2900 block of Marshall Avenue SE just after midnight and died at a hospital. His death was ruled a homicide the same day.

“GRPD would like to thank the Tampa Police Department’s Fugitive Apprehension Unit for their assistance in making the arrest.”

Grand Rapids Police Department

• Held: Kent County jail without bond
• Next court date: not yet disclosed

If you've got opinions about parks, trails or rec centers, the city wants them. The Grand Rapids Department of Parks and Recreation is asking residents to review its proposed 2027-2032 Parks and Recreation Master Plan through Dec. 1. The plan, updated every five years, is required for communities seeking certain state and federal recreation grants.

Director Laura Cleypool wrote that the plan gives the city a framework for strategic investments. You can read the draft online, or find hard copies at the Cook Library Center, the department office and four library branches.

“Community feedback is an important part of making sure we’re moving in the right direction.”

Laura Cleypool, director of Parks and Recreation

• Email: parkinfo@grcity.us
• Mail: 1500 Scribner Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
• Hearing location: City Commission Chambers, City Hall

Nurses at Trinity Health Grand Rapids handmade costumes for babies in the NICU, so some of the city's tiniest patients can celebrate Halloween without interrupting their care.

WOOD reports it's a "beloved annual tradition." The babies can't trick-or-treat, so the nurses bring the holiday to them.

“Anything we can do to bring a little joy or a smile to their faces so they can enjoy Halloween is well worth the effort.”

Kirstie Dixon, clinical services manager, Trinity Health Grand Rapids NICU

• Costumes include Princess Peach, Barbie and a little dragon
• Material: lightweight, tailored for medical devices
• Families get the costume and printed photos

If you'd like to burn off the pie before you eat it, the annual GRPS Turkey Trot is back downtown on Thanksgiving morning. Races start and end near Van Andel Arena. A virtual race option is also available.

All proceeds go back to GRPS student athletes. WGVU's Shelley Irwin Show talked with GRPS Foundation President Stephanie Andrews and BCBS's Tanell Hills about what's new this year and the trot's impact on student athletes.

• Register: RunSignup
• Promo window: Oct. 29 through midnight Nov. 1
• Updates: follow the race on Facebook and Instagram