Good morning, Grand Rapids.

John Kooistra, nearly 80 and a West Michigan veteran, still holds shrapnel from his Vietnam service in 1966—this metal reminder links him to a war that later led to his Parkinson’s diagnosis from Agent Orange exposure.

Grand Rapids fire crews responded Friday night near South Division Avenue and Martin Luther King Junior Street where a building showed visible charring and melted siding— the department said it is investigating the cause and has not provided details on injuries.

A man was hospitalized after a shooting around 11:30 p.m. last Friday near Cedar Street NE — Clancy Avenue NE, and police are investigating the incident — he sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Officers responded to calls near Rosa Parks Circle early Friday morning when gunshots were heard during reports of reckless driving (a woman was shot in the hip and a man sustained a leg wound), with both victims sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.

A Grand Rapids native was killed in 2021 when a hit-and-run driver struck him and two other vehicles (whose drivers did not stop) caused additional impact, leaving the case unsolved according to the Kent County Sheriff's Office.

Local programs began offering free swim lessons on July 1 to teach West Michigan residents how to swim safely and spot swimmers in distress, aiming to reduce drowning risks as summer heat rises.

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.

The Insiders: A Tribute to Tom Petty

6-10 p.m. — Lamar Park — Free entry — Experience the premier Tom Petty tribute with six veteran musicians channeling the Heartbreakers' vibe.

Ditch Lily Live Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets from $34.00 — Experience Ditch Lily perform live without any hidden fees.

Donate Life Night at the Zoo

6-9 p.m. — John Ball Zoo — $5 suggested donation — Celebrate life while exploring the zoo after-hours and enjoying sweet treats with community partners.

Five Iron Frenzy Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — All ages welcome — Enjoy a night of ska and punk music with Five Iron Frenzy and support from Boy Detective.

Grand Rapids Trail Run

7:30-11:30 a.m. — Robinette's Apple Haus & Winery — Registration required — Enjoy scenic trails as you challenge yourself in a 5K, 9K, or 18K run/hike.

Oddities & Curiosities Expo

10:00 – 11:30 a.m. — DeVos Place — Ticket prices vary — Explore the bizarre at this unique expo featuring oddities and curiosities.