Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids firefighters fought heavy flames and thick smoke at a multi-family condo on the 2800 block of Dawes Avenue SE on April 30, and although one firefighter suffered a slight injury he has been cleared for duty—fire investigators say the fire appears accidental.

On April 30, Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker finished presenting his case in the murder trial of former police officer Christopher Schurr, who is accused of shooting Patrick Lyoya on April 4, 2022 — defense lawyers began calling more witnesses on May 1 to explain what happened during the stop.

Former Grand Rapids mayor Rosalynn Bliss has taken a new job as assistant dean and chief external relations officer at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine where she will lead communications, community outreach, and hospital relations — replacing Jerry Kooiman who ended his role Thursday.

The Grand Rapids Fire Department opened an application window for new firefighters with a full-time salary near $53,000 plus benefits, requiring applicants to be at least 18 with a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, meeting vision standards, and a clean record—candidates must pass written, cognitive, and agility tests and submit their forms by 11:59 p.m. on June 1 to join an eligibility list for future openings and a Fire Academy starting Jan. 5.

Gov. Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags lowered throughout the state today to honor Army Staff Sgt. Troy Smith Knutson-Collins—one of four soldiers killed during a March training exercise—and his funeral, with flags returning to full staff on Saturday.

Grand Rapids eliminated 15 voting precincts on April 19, affecting roughly 21,000 voters as City Clerk Joel Hondorp said the consolidation makes polling locations more accessible and frees up resources for absentee and early voting—though Third Ward Commissioner Kelsey Perdue warned the changes might reduce access for marginalized communities.

Grand Rapids will host a free expungement fair at the Kroc Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 3 – a chance for eligible residents to clear criminal records.

Attendees will receive on-site attorneys, fingerprinting, free background checks and consultations – federal and out-of-state convictions will not be eligible.

On Tuesday, May 6, voters in Kent and Ottawa counties will head to the polls to decide on proposals including school bonds and operating millage renewals for education, public safety and senior services.

In-person registration remains open until polls close at 8 p.m. + early voting is also available.

Giovannie & The Hired Guns Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Stache — Tickets available — Experience the explosive blend of alt-metal and country from the dynamic band that defies musical boundaries.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets available — Experience Clap Your Hands Say Yeah performing their debut album along with Knifeplay in an intimate setting.

Grand Rapids Griffins Playoff Game 2

7:59 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement of Round 3 as the Griffins battle for victory at home.

Amway River Bank Run

Saturday, May 10th — The Chop House Grand Rapids — Registration fees apply — Participate in one of the largest running events in Michigan along the scenic riverbank.

Grand Rapids Lantern Festival

7:30-11:30 p.m. — John Ball Zoo — $26 per person — Experience a dazzling display of handcrafted Asian lanterns illuminating the zoo while telling the story of wildlife and culture.

Dizzybird Records 11 Year Anniversary Party

7-8:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate a decade of dizzybird records with live performances by Heaters, Gringo Star, Hollywood Makeout, and crystal trench.

Ashley Cooke Concert

7-11 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket information TBA — Experience the heartfelt country music of rising star Ashley Cooke.

Mother's Day Brunch at Margaux 2025

10 a.m.-8 p.m. — Margaux — $65 Adults, $35 Children — Celebrate Mother's Day with a masterfully crafted buffet of French cuisine delights.

stageGR Presents: 13 the MUSICAL

7-9 p.m. — Matthews Performing Arts Center — PG-13 — Experience a hilarious, coming-of-age musical about fitting in and standing out.

Kishi Bashi Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Sold out — Experience a night of enchanting music with Kishi Bashi and Oshima Brothers.