Good morning, Grand Rapids.

A West Michigan organization is helping families reunite with children leaving foster care by offering tailored services—its 2024 data shows that 79 of 200 children exiting care in Kent County were reunited with their families.

The group works with other agencies to address family challenges and promote stable environments for growth.

Activists — led by West MI Indivisible Co-Chair Jennie Frazier — will hold a protest in Grand Rapids Saturday at 10 a.m. at Ah-Nab-Awen Park and Rosa Parks Circle to support democracy amid unrest in Los Angeles.

They have prepared safety helpers and designated safe areas to de-escalate any issues if needed.

John Twist, a Grand Rapids mechanic who learned to repair British sports cars in England, built a decades-long career fixing beloved MG roadsters.

He spent over 50 years working on classic cars—solidifying his local legacy.

A local volunteer from the West Grand Neighborhood Organization — who was picking up trash — was hit in a hit-and-run on Monday morning near Leonard Street, and Grand Rapids police are investigating the incident.

Grand Rapids drivers paid an average of $3.24 per gallon after gas prices rose 11 cents last week, while the national average dropped to $3.07.

Local data shows prices ranged from $2.89 to $3.39 across many stations.

Residents in Ada Township reported unwanted solicitors knocking on doors late at night, including a 9:30 p.m. incident that made one resident feel unsafe—leading township officials to consider a new ordinance— while the Board will meet Monday at noon to discuss the proposed changes.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said opioid deaths dropped by 34% from 2023 to 2024, with about 1,000 fewer overdose deaths recorded in preliminary data.

The state’s efforts include distributing over 1.3 million naloxone kits and using nearly 34,000 of them to reverse overdoses—though experts note that more work is still needed.

The Meijer LPGA Classic returns this week as some of the world's best women golfers compete in West Michigan—driving local excitement around the tournament.

Hudsonville and Unity Christian high schools each repeated as regional softball champions for the second consecutive season—Hudsonville won its Division 1 state title defense with an 8-3 win over Cedar Springs in the regional semifinal at Northview.

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.

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.

2025 STEM Summer Camp

1-4 p.m. — Amped Virtual Reality — Snack included — Kids explore STEM through fun, hands-on activities and virtual reality experiences.

Mastering the Poetic Figure or Portrait Workshop

10 AM – 4 PM — Franciscan Life Process Center — $570 — Explore poetic techniques to enhance emotional resonance in your creative works.