Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of April.
Good morning, Grand Rapids.
Ninety chronically homeless people have been placed in permanent supportive housing through the 100 in 100 program—a Grand Rapids initiative that raised over $112,000 and secured donations of furniture and household items.
The program will house 58 more individuals in the coming months and continue to support participants with case worker services and access to mental health care.
On April 13, a 26-year-old motorcyclist from Allendale died when he attempted to pass a minivan turning left on Kalamazoo Avenue SE north of 100th Street at about 5:20 p.m.—investigators noted that alcohol was not a factor and that the other driver, a 41-year-old from Caledonia, suffered minor injuries.
Smoke was seen during Wednesday evening's commute near the intersection of West River Drive Northeast and School Street Northeast in Comstock Park as flames appeared from a building and fire trucks blocked the road.
A fire in a Gaines Township home on the 600 block of 76th Street SE started around 5:30 a.m. Wednesday with a family evacuating safely and no injuries reported, and crews from Cutlerville, Kentwood, Dutton and Byron Center are working to put out the flames—investigators have not yet found the cause.
On April 16, Amway unveiled a renovated two-story lobby at its Ada headquarters that now features floor-to-ceiling windows and a new cafeteria offering multiple restaurant options—part of a $127.6 million expansion.
The project also added meeting spaces and energy-saving upgrades and comes as the company plans a full in-office return from early September—after using a hybrid schedule.
Patrick Lyoya’s family said they will keep fighting for justice after their son’s death during an April 2022 traffic stop as former officer Christopher Schurr—charged with second-degree murder—will begin trial in less than two weeks and they expressed anger that he may testify while their son cannot.
Last week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security emailed migrants using the CBP One app warning that their temporary status would end in seven days if they did not depart immediately.
The message was also sent by mistake to some U.S. citizens, including a Grand Rapids attorney, which has left families like Jean-Paul’s—whose relatives fled gang violence in Haiti—worried about their next steps.
Rain in Grand Rapids brought a brief break from allergy symptoms before more pollen and mold were released, explained allergy specialist Sara Uekert.
Thunderstorms—mixing heavy rain, strong winds and lightning—can break up pollen grains and extend the allergy season, leading patients to rely on medications and other treatments for relief.
Vincent Mason Concert
7-10 p.m. — Elevation — Check website for ticket info — Experience expansive artistry and relatable storytelling from rising country music star Vincent Mason.
Kyran Daniel Live Performance
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Ticket information not provided — Enjoy an evening filled with incredible acoustic guitar performances and memorable music.
Easter Sunday Divine Service
7:30 & 10:00 a.m. — Messiah Lutheran Church — Free entry — Celebrate the resurrection of Christ with a joyful divine service and an Easter breakfast in between.
Wild Strides 5K
6-9 p.m. — John Ball Zoo — Includes registration fee — Experience a scenic evening run featuring a finisher medal and a ticket to the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival.
My Sunshine – Paint and Sip at Buddy's Pizza
6:00-8:30 p.m. — Buddy's Pizza — $38 — Unleash your creativity while enjoying delicious food in a fun painting party.
Family Fun Science Night
5-6 p.m. — Alger Head Start — Free entry — Engage in exciting science experiments and experiences with Alger teachers.
EAZYBAKED with Wooli
9 PM – 12 AM — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience Wooli's dynamic bass music and immersive performances that have captivated festival crowds.
Live at Night Grand Rapids
7:00-8:30 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of live entertainment for ages 18+ with an exciting lineup of acts.
Grand Rapids Ballet: Be Here Now
2-3:30 p.m. — Peter Martin Wege Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting return of Le Grand Jazz! with a mix of classic and contemporary jazz tunes.
Shinedown Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Tickets from $32 — Experience the electrifying energy of Shinedown live in concert.
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