Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Demonstrators started a peace walk at Fountain Street Church to oppose genocide by supporting Palestine and raising funds for Gaza children; after covering 18 miles on Thursday, they continue their 70-mile journey today by walking 16.4 miles to Ionia—planning to reach Lansing on Monday for a rally at the state capitol.

A crash on eastbound I-196 near Grandville closed the highway at 9:25 a.m. Thursday near the Chicago Drive exit (just before a construction zone) and caused heavy traffic backups while MDOT did not immediately confirm any injuries.

A jailed man already charged with first-degree murder now faces extra charges for possessing multiple shanks in his cell after passing a note about a weapon to another inmate, officials said.

Two cousins involved in a multistate drug pipeline pleaded guilty after police seized 44 pounds of cocaine outside a Grandville hotel—Tyrone Munoz was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison while Raul Robledo received three years and will serve an additional three years on supervised release.

The Grand Rapids Art Museum launches a free summer event series called Thursdays on the Terrace — live music, food trucks, art activities and free museum admission are offered on its downtown outdoor terrace.

The series runs every Thursday evening until Aug. 28.

The Michigan Department of Labor gave 49 West Michigan businesses $4.1 million from its Going Pro Talent Fund to train nearly 2,000 workers in jobs like manufacturing, construction and health care.

Grand Haven-based R A Miller Industries used past funds to train new employees including Bill Clark, and applications for the next cycle will open in the fall—helping businesses build skilled workforces.

State law enforcement agencies will crack down on speeding in July to curb reckless driving, with Grand Rapids Police and other county agencies joining a campaign supported by federal traffic safety funds—officials note that speeding plays a role in many traffic fatalities.

On April 24, 56-year-old Bill Dinsmore collapsed on the sixth hole at Morrison Lake Golf Club after suffering a heart attack; staff and a nearby golfer performed CPR until first responders arrived.

He spent over a week in hospital and returned yesterday to thank the rescuers—now inspiring the club to boost its CPR and AED training.

MLive has unveiled the top high school baseball players from Grand Rapids for 2025 by selecting pitchers, hitters and fielders from a deep pool of talent that included strong seniors + accomplished underclassmen.

The list highlights the diverse group of athletes who shone during the spring season.

Visser Family YMCA Buck Creek Run

12-2 p.m. — 3535 Wilson Ave SW, Grandville, MI — Registration fee applies — Celebrate the 4th of July with a community fun run in Grandville.

Vintage and Handmade Marketplace

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Grand Rapids Downtown Market — Free entry — Discover 60+ vintage and handmade vendors while enjoying live music and tasty treats.

2025 Frederick Meijer Gardens Experience

8:15 AM – 7:30 PM — Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park — $125 — Experience the beauty and artistry of nature in a world-class botanical garden.

Virtual Reality Experience

1 PM – 6 PM — Amped Virtual Reality — Ticket required — Dive into an hour of exciting virtual reality adventures with friends.

Reeds Lake Trailblazer 5K

8:30-10:00 a.m. — East Grand Rapids Community Center — Registration required — Experience a scenic 5K run with medal awards for top finishers in various age categories.

iDKHOW Concert

8 PM – 2 AM — The Pyramid Scheme — Check the venue for ticket prices — Experience the unique sound of Dallon Weekes, formerly of Panic! at the Disco.

Keith Scott Blues Concert

4-10 p.m. — Küsterer Brauhaus — Cost TBD — Experience an evening of dynamic blues with Chicago's own Keith Scott.

Shrek 2 In Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets vary — Enjoy an evening of iconic animation along with live orchestral music.

Major League Pickleball Mid Season Tournament

7:59-10:59 p.m. — Belknap Park — Ticket purchase supports a cause — Experience an exciting night of pickleball action in Grand Rapids.

2025 Junior Ballet Intensive

Jul 14-25, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM — Grand Rapids Ballet — Tuition required — A nurturing environment for aspiring young dancers to enhance their skills.