Good morning, Grand Rapids.

GringoDog’s, known for its evening hot dog cart service in downtown Grand Rapids, had a soft opening for a new brick-and-mortar drive-thru at 3648 Division Ave. in Wyoming yesterday, and owner Roger Bouwman said he will add menu items like corn dogs + loaded fries ahead of a grand opening on June 1.

A federal judge threw out charges on May 28, 2024 against former state police sergeant Brian Keely—charged in the April 17, 2024 death of Samuel Sterling—and his family said they will fight for justice as Attorney General Dana Nessel plans to seek an appeal.

On May 29, the family of Patrick Lyoya said their heartbreak deepened after officials decided not to retry former police officer Christopher Schurr for their son’s death.

On Thursday, May 29th at 9 a.m., the family of Patrick Lyoya — along with attorneys Ven Johnson and Ben Crump — held a press conference to address Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker’s decision not to retry former officer Christopher Schurr following the killing of their son in 2022 and to outline next steps for a civil case seeking compensation for alleged Fourth Amendment violations.

Red Dock reopened its summer season today in Douglas—adding extra docking space for boaters and more live music with services set for Thursdays and Sundays all summer.

The owners upgraded the seating area and added a covered bar while keeping the venue's well-known charm that has made it a local staple since 1998.

Congress Elementary School in Grand Rapids unveiled a new student-inspired mural titled 'Dream Big' on Thursday morning as students submitted their ideas, and the design now wraps around the school; local artist Bradley Goff—known for his elephant mural on Seward Avenue Northwest—created the piece as part of the Congress Parent Teacher Community Council project.

Communities in West Michigan will receive over $130K through an EGLE grant program to collect scrap tires that will be recycled into road materials and rubber mulch—Courtland Township in Kent County will host a drop-off event on October 4.

East Grand Rapids senior hurdler Gracie Putnam overcame a separated shoulder from April and pushed through a rainy regional meet by winning her heat and placing second in the finals to earn a spot in the Division 2 state finals at Hamilton High School scheduled for Saturday + proving her determination as a team captain before moving on to swim at Hope College.

MJVBA State Championships

8 AM – 9 AM — DeVos Place — Entry fees apply — Experience the excitement of AAU State Final volleyball tournament action.

Virtual Reality Experience and Escape Rooms

12 PM – 5 PM — Amped Virtual Reality — Ticket required — Immerse yourself in a world of VR with traditional games and challenging escape rooms.

Waitress

7:30-11:30 PM — Grand Rapids Civic Theatre And School Of Theatre Arts — Tickets available — Experience the heartwarming story of a pie-making waitress chasing her dreams amid life’s challenges.

SHARKS Exhibit: Now Open at the Grand Rapids Public Museum!

This blockbuster exhibition from the Australian Museum brings together the history, science, and cultural significance of a fascinating class of fierce fish. Explore 100 specimens and artifacts and 9 breathtaking, life-sized, scientifically accurate models of shark species, from the iconic great white shark to the extinct 270-million-year-old buzzsaw shark.

Michigan Lighthouse Paint & Sip

2-5 p.m. — Wine & Canvas Studio — $38.00 — Sip mimosas while creating a memorable 16 x 20 painting at this fun artsy event.

Grand Rapids Speed Dating for Singles Age 30-45

6-8 p.m. — O'Toole's Public House — Ticket required — Experience a modern and efficient way to meet potential matches in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Ally Venable Live Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Stache — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying Texas blues-rock of Ally Venable, a rising star with a powerful guitar and magnetic stage presence.

Jacob McLeod Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Hops at 84 East — Check event page for cost — Experience the musical journey of young aspiring talent Jacob McLeod from Michigan.

Sleep Theory Concert

6-9 p.m. — Elevation — Tickets available — Experience the dynamic blend of heavy rock with powerful vocals from rising star Sleep Theory.

The Somm Series: Cheese and Wine Pairing

7-9 p.m. — Grand Vin — $75/Person — Experience an educational evening of delightful cheese and wine pairings with expert guidance.