Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Marie Deregnacourt, a hard of hearing ASL teacher at Northview High School, is hosting her third Deaf Expo with over 70 booths that offer job help, education resources, games, and crafts for everyone.

The expo will be held Saturday from 1PM—3PM and will feature Old Hollywood themes with silent films and popcorn.

AYA Youth Collective has launched a pilot cash transfer program in West Michigan to help homeless youth pay rent and avoid utility shutoffs by offering up to $2,000 per person.

The program has assisted 110 youth and impacted 98 families since 2022— it plans to expand its reach in Kent County.

Foxtail Coffee will open its newest Eastown location on Monday, May 19 at 1200 Wealthy St. SE in a 1,900-square-foot space that once housed Little Caesars and now features preserved historic details (including the original siding and a custom mural) alongside a full craft coffee and food menu with outdoor patio seating.

Farmer Nicole Zaagman at Parkside Farm in Byron Center is boosting her income by offering overnight stays, educational tours, and a daily farm market on an eight-acre property.

The farm will host its spring open house May 17—providing classes and a full farm experience for families and groups.

Former police officer Christopher Schurr, charged with second-degree murder in Patrick Lyoya’s April 2022 killing, has his attorney reject claims that defense tactics caused trial delays—Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker will soon decide if Schurr will face a retrial.

A 19-year-old man from Tallmadge Township died from a gunshot to the head when a 20-year-old from Jenison fired multiple shots through the floor at a house party on May 9, and police said alcohol was a factor + detectives are now working with prosecutors to determine possible charges.

MDOT is using a machine called the Road Zipper to move concrete barriers 12 feet on I-96 in Ionia County as part of a two-year construction project.

Today the machine shifts lanes—creating uneven traffic flow that may cause delays during commuters’ trips.

Grand Rapids has been awarded $775,000 in state grants for two major projects—one to renovate the historic Four Star Theatre and one to restore a brick building on Martin Luther King Jr. St. that will create jobs and boost local growth.

Kent County Veterans Services began handing out free firearm cable locks on May 14 at its office (836 Fuller Ave. NE) to help prevent veteran suicides, thanks to a donation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and more than 400 locks remain available while supplies last.

The All American Funk Parade

8:00-11:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticketed event — Experience a lively night of funk with The All American Funk Parade and The Butterscotch Boys.

John Moreland Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket availability — Experience a night of acoustic storytelling with John Moreland and Ramsey Thornton.

Women in Marketing Panel Discussion

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. — L. William Seidman Center — $30 Members, $40 Future Members — Engage with an inspiring panel of female marketers discussing their unique challenges and experiences in the industry.

Griffins Playoff Game - Home Game 4

7:59-11:59 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices may vary — Watch the Grand Rapids Griffins battle it out in the playoffs at their home arena.

The Biz Accelerator Lab

8 AM - 3:45 PM — Grand Rapids Chamber — Check event page for pricing — Tackle burnout and boost growth with expert presentations tailored for entrepreneurs.

West Michigan Whitecaps vs. Great Lakes Loons

6:35-10:35 p.m. — LMCU Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement of minor league baseball in a thrilling matchup.

Griffins Playoff Game 1

7:59-11:59 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of playoff hockey with the Grand Rapids Griffins in their home opener.

Divine Service: The Sixth Sunday of Easter

10:00 – 11:15 AM — Messiah Lutheran Church — Free entry — Experience a meaningful worship service with livestream options and a Bible class beforehand.

Mobile Accessibility Testing Workshop by Ellen Mason

6-8 p.m. — Atomic Object — Free entry — Explore mobile accessibility testing techniques with expert guidance and hands-on demos.

Sessanta V2: Primus, Puscifer, and A Perfect Circle

7:30-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate Maynard James Keenan's 60th birthday with an unforgettable night of musical collaboration.