Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The Diocese of Grand Rapids said local Catholics are saddened by Pope Francis’s death and remember his work breaking down barriers + ministering to the homeless, refugees, and others.

Bishop Walkowiak, one of the first bishops appointed by Francis, said the pope’s leadership and service shaped his ministry for 11 years.

The Diocese of Grand Rapids expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, with Bishop David Walkowiak praising his work with the poor and marginalized — he said the Pope broke down barriers and served those in need — as Catholics in our community remember him.

Rockford Construction, a Grand Rapids firm with 370 employees and offices in Detroit and Estero, dropped ‘construction’ from its name to reflect its full set of services in construction management, development and property management — the change comes under President Shane Napper, who took the role in January — and the firm now plans to expand its reach in Michigan and beyond.

The US Supreme Court refused to review former Grand Rapids police officer Christopher Schurr’s petition (which challenged a lower court ruling on his qualified immunity) in a civil suit filed by Patrick Lyoya’s family after the fatal shooting of the 26-year-old during a 2022 traffic stop; Schurr faces trial for second-degree murder today (jury selection is underway).

Christopher Schurr, the former officer charged with murder in the death of Patrick Lyoya in April 2022, is undergoing jury selection where legal experts say the trial may hinge on whether a reasonable officer would have fired a weapon to prevent harm & potential jurors are being screened for impartiality.

Jury selection begins today in the murder trial of former officer Christopher Schurr, who is charged with killing Patrick Lyoya—a Black immigrant shot during a traffic stop three years ago after arriving in the United States in 2014.

Rainn Wilson, known for his role as Dwight Schrute on The Office, will host a special screening and live conversation in Grand Rapids on August 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, April 25 (VIP tickets include a photo opportunity with Wilson) at DeVos Performance Hall.

Grand Rapids Community College is reviewing its scholarships+ federal funding may be affected if its diversity, equity and inclusion programs continue.

No changes have been made yet+ the college will work with legal counsel and donors to decide on any new scholarship criteria.

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.

Texas Stars vs. Grand Rapids Griffins (Playoff Game)

7-11 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement as the Texas Stars face off against the Grand Rapids Griffins in an action-packed playoff game.

Science and Sensory Night

4:30-5:30 p.m. — South Godwin Head Start — Free entry — Engage in hands-on science activities and enjoy delicious walking tacos.

Marvel Years Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Stache — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electric soul of Cory Wythe as he showcases his guitar mastery at The Stache.

Invent Animate + Silent Planet - Tour 2025

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Elevation — $33 — Experience a powerful night of music with Invent Animate and Silent Planet in Grand Rapids.