Good morning, Grand Rapids.

John Ball Zoo will open its 134th season on March 21 with hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will welcome visitors with new attractions — two lions and a warthog — along with special events planned for the season.

Plainfield Charter Township approved purchasing a new playground structure for D.W.

Richardson Park on March 10 to replace equipment installed 31 years ago — the project cost is $135,926 after a grant reduced expenses. Township staff removed the old equipment in early March and the new play area will be installed in late summer or early fall.

Barnes & Noble will open a new store in Grand Rapids next week at The Village at Knapp’s Crossing on Wednesday, March 26 at 10 a.m.—bestselling author Erin Craig will cut the ribbon and sign books.

The store will feature a layout with books, games, toys, and an updated café.

Deputies arrested a woman after she fired a shot during a domestic argument in the Cutler Estates Mobile Home Village (incident occurred around 5:38 p.m.) as she missed a man and no one was hurt.

Several dozen GRPS educators and community members protested outside Union High School on March 19th to oppose federal education cuts; the demonstration was organized by the Grand Rapids Education Association and joined over 20 similar protests across Michigan.

Educators and parents gathered in front of Union High School on Wednesday — listening to speakers before joining staff for a walk-in protest against planned Department of Education cuts.

The protest was part of a national effort by the National Education Association — held just days before sweeping cuts were set to take effect on special education and teacher salaries.

The West Catholic girls basketball team won a close 39-37 game against South Christian on Tuesday, which earned them a state semifinal spot for the fourth time in a row— they now get ready for Friday's 7:30 p.m. game against Detroit Edison at the Breslin Center.

Grand Rapids Symphony Conducted by Marcelo Lehninger Performing Mahler & Eight Timpani

The Grand Rapids Symphony will perform Mahler's compositions featuring eight timpani, conducted by Marcelo Lehninger, at DeVos Performance Hall.

Folias Duo Performance

Folias Duo will perform at St. Cecilia Music Center, showcasing a unique musical experience for attendees.

Grand Rapids Ballet Presents Jumpstart 2025

The event features Grand Rapids Ballet dancers premiering new choreographic works, showcasing their talent and creativity in a popular audience favorite.

Grand Rapids Griffins vs. Texas Stars

7-11 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Cost varies — Catch the Griffins in their 2024-25 AHL season matchup against the Texas Stars and enjoy a night of hockey excitement.

MIB International Networking Event in Grand Rapids

9-11 p.m. — 317 Coffee — Free entry — Empower and connect with like-minded women at a supportive networking meeting featuring guest speakers and business growth opportunities.

Columbus Fury at Grand Rapids Rise

7-11 p.m. | Van Andel Arena | Ticket prices vary | Experience thrilling soccer action as the Columbus Fury takes on the Grand Rapids Rise.

The Bad Bunny Party

9:00 PM — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticketed event — Celebrate the vibrant music of Bad Bunny at a lively party atmosphere.

John R. Miller Concert

7-10 p.m. | Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill | Ticket prices vary | Enjoy an evening of live music with John R. Miller's soulful tunes.

Jeffrey Lewis Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Buy tickets online — Experience an exciting night with Jeffrey Lewis and opening acts Voltage, Grasping Straws, and SHRiNK.

Lenten Prayer Services

11 a.m. & 7 p.m. — Messiah Lutheran Church — Soup Supper available — Experience Lenten meditations with prayer and song, focusing on The Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ.