Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The iconic Blue Bridge in downtown Grand Rapids is shining orange this weekend to honor victims of gun violence as part of the national Wear Orange Weekend—its lights will remain on until dusk on Sunday, June 8.

Max Polakovich, aged 23, ran 400 miles from northern Indiana to the Mackinac Bridge last month to raise funds for Grand Rapids' AYA Youth Collective, a nonprofit helping young people facing homelessness.

He finished the run in 8 days while raising nearly $50,000 and receiving support from friends (including a girlfriend who ran the final 50 miles) as he battled exhaustion and a shin injury.

Grand Rapids celebrates its 175th birthday today with a free party at Rosa Parks Circle starting at 2 p.m. — the event features a prayer by the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians, live music, carnival games, food, a history exhibit with 175 images, and a guided walking tour at 5:30 p.m.

Grand Rapids pools and splash pads opened yesterday with operating hours (noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sundays), serving local residents and families.

A 20-year-old man allegedly fired his rifle during a May 9 party at an Ottawa County home, accidentally hitting 19-year-old college student Connor Lotterman who later died, and he was arraigned on June 5 in Hudsonville District Court amid reports that alcohol may have been a factor.

Workers installed a 19.5-foot bronze sculpture on May 13 at Frederik Meijer Gardens — nicknamed ‘Princess’ by New York-based artist Ursula von Rydingsvard — weighing 12,600 pounds.

The piece, officially titled Bronze Bowl with Lace, features a perforated top that glows after dark and joins a collection of over 300 works.

The Grand Rapids Christian girls soccer team won a 1-0 game over defending Division 2 state champion Spring Lake — clinching their first regional title since 2014 — at Forest Hills Northern High School.

They scored with a 19-second goal and will now face top-ranked Hudsonville Unity Christian in the state semifinals on Tuesday at 6 p.m.

On Friday night the East Grand Rapids Pioneers won the Division 2 state championship by defeating Detroit Country Day 15—10 at the University of Michigan—claiming their seventh boys lacrosse title.

Gavin Buck led the team with goals and assists during the game.

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.

JB Pump Day – South Grand Rapids

2-4 p.m. — Young Supply Company - South Grand Rapids — Free inspection and oil change — Enjoy complimentary maintenance on vacuum pumps for local contractors.

Chase Rice Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket prices TBD — Experience high-energy country music from Chase Rice with his newest hits and fan favorites.

Billy Corgan Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Intersection — Tickets available — Experience the diverse talents of the iconic Billy Corgan in an intimate live performance.

GR Lit Fest Book Fair

4-5 p.m. — Speciation Cellars — Free entry — Celebrate local literature with an adult book fair featuring numerous authors and delicious food from a food truck.