Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Byron Township neighbors debated the future of the Whistlestop Park dog park during a May 12 meeting—residents complained about ongoing noise and safety issues while both sides want a new park built.

Township Trustee Jay DeKleine confirmed plans to relocate the park to 92nd Street, though timing remains uncertain.

Grand Rapids leaders said the new Acrisure Amphitheater attracted 12,000 fans during its inaugural Friday night concert with Lionel Richie (with only one noise complaint and smooth traffic), and they will adjust road closures ahead of Kid Cudi’s show on May 27.

The Grand Rapids Public Library is hosting Dungeons & Dragons nights for adults drop-in sessions on Thursday, June 11 and Aug.

27 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the West Side Branch (713 Bridge St. NW). Registration is first-come, first-served and events feature one-shot campaigns for players 18 and older.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum will open a new veterans exhibit on Friday, May 22, honoring five Michigan heroes from the Revolutionary War to Artemis II — free admission is offered to veterans and up to five family members May 23–25.

On Monday, May 18, the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission honored five projects at the Public Library auditorium, including Silva’s renovation of a furniture factory into a venue that blends dining and entertainment.

The awards celebrate work that preserves historic character while boosting community benefits (residential, commercial and neighborhood efforts).

Gas prices in West Michigan are about $1.50 higher than last year for Memorial Day weekend, but easing refinery issues — leading stations to lower prices — may help stop further increases.

That means drivers from Grand Rapids could see small price drops as the holiday lifts.

GRCC board unanimously appointed Jamie Gordon (executive director of human resources at Kentwood Public Schools) as trustee effective May 18 through Jan.

1, 2027; the remaining term will be filled in an upcoming general election.

After Monday's severe weather, Michigan's Department of Insurance and Financial Services warned residents to be wary of contractors who may use high-pressure tactics to secure cash or app payments (such as Venmo) and advised verifying credentials with trusted sources.

On May 14, cranes lowered the final 175+foot pedestrian bridge over the Rogue River for the South Rogue River Trail; roadway closures will lift this week and crews will pour the concrete deck as Plainfield Township nears project completion.

Health officials in West Michigan say fentanyl is being mixed with potent synthetics like nitazenes, making overdoses harder to reverse and sometimes requiring extra naloxone doses; Community Mental Health of Ottawa County has installed Narcan dispensing boxes & a naloxone vending machine to help those at risk.

Kroger Homestyle Cheese Garlic Croutons sold in Michigan and 16 other states have been recalled over salmonella concerns from milk powder used in the seasoning blend (UPC code 0 11110 81353 4), and customers are advised to contact Sugar Foods LLC if they purchased the affected 5 oz. pouch.

On Tuesday, May 19, ICCF Community Homes held a ribbon-cutting at 2017 Eastern Ave. SE in Grand Rapids as they unveiled 15 mixed-income apartments for income-qualifying households.

The $4.5 million redevelopment — incorporating both accessible first-floor units and historic preservation — repurposed underused space while honoring a local landmark.

Candlelight Tribute to Taylor Swift

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Wealthy Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a magical candlelight concert featuring the music of Taylor Swift.

Daveonce Washington: The Motown Get Down

9 PM – 1 AM — Billy's Lounge — Cost Info Not Provided — Enjoy a high-energy dance party with Da'Veonce & DaFunk Gang featuring modern funk beats.

Chicago Wolves vs Grand Rapids Griffins (Round 3 - Home Game 3)

7-8 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Watch the thrilling playoff clash between the Wolves and Griffins live on FloHockey.

Big Boi with Chip tha Ripper

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Acrisure Amphitheater — $1 donation per ticket to The Big Bro Foundation — Enjoy a night of hip-hop while supporting youth empowerment initiatives.

Prairie Drone Companion Album Release

7-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Entry TBA — Discover the sounds of local music veterans launching their debut album.

Cody Johnson Concert

7-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of live music with country sensation Cody Johnson.

Comedy Bang! Bang!

8-11 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with top comedians and great entertainment.

The Rare Occasions Live Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Experience explosive garage rock anthems with LA-based indie band The Rare Occasions.

Dan Rickabus Album Release Event

7-10:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets start at $74 — Experience a memorable evening with live music from Dan Rickabus in Grand Rapids.

The Wallflowers Concert

7:00–8:30 p.m. — Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater — Ticket info available — Enjoy a live performance by The Wallflowers in a beautiful garden setting.