Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids received a national award for its lead pipe replacement program, winning the Excellence in Community Engagement Award at a Washington, D.C. conference.

The city began replacing pipes in 2017 + removed 9,000 lines so far, with plans to replace 1,900 more next fiscal year.

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport celebrated the launch of the GoodMaps navigation app for travelers with disabilities yesterday.

The app offers audio guidance, augmented reality visuals and haptic feedback — features aimed at easing travel throughout the terminal.

This summer, visitors to Double Dip Depot at 3284 Remembrance Rd NW can enjoy ice cream, mini golf, and features like a giant dinosaur (from Rosie's Diner) and an oversized chair from Grand Haven.

Owner James DeWinter enhanced the shop with attractions including his renowned Peanut Butter Lover's parfait.

Frederik Meijer Gardens is extending summer hours on select dates to offer a different view of Dale Chihuly’s renowned glass installations.

The extended schedule lets visitors catch golden hour reflections in July and August until 9 p.m. and in September until 8 p.m. with indoor exhibits running until Nov. 1.

The Lakeshore Advantage board named Mandy Cooper interim president effective July 25, replacing Jennifer Owens (who served for 12 years).

The board will search for a permanent president as Cooper leads economic development in the region.

East Grand Rapids commissioners approved a new flat $250 fee for middle school sports (matching the high school model) set to take effect for the upcoming school year, and families needing help can seek support through Jimmy's Friendship Fund via their school principals.

The county health department announced that a mobile health unit will visit over a dozen local events through mid-August, including a food access event on July 14, a concert on July 16 in Kentwood, and a children's museum day on July 26.

On Thursday, the planning commission approved a 32-unit townhome project in Shawmut Hills after more than 500 residents opposed it over concerns about density, traffic & wetland protection; developer Adam Rogalski said the project will proceed with reduced scope and enhanced safeguards.

Local pro pickleball player Connor Mogle fulfills a dream at the Beer City Open in Grand Rapids — where he first played at Belknap Park — and he is set to compete again today as the championships air on FOX 17 Sunday.

Over the weekend, the Midwest Wheelchair Tennis Championship is underway at MVP Athletic Club in Grand Rapids as part of the Hartford Nationals and draws over 400 athletes from 38 states, including 35 locals; Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Center and United Move host the tournament to promote sports equity.

The Beer City Open Pickleball Championships are underway at Belknap Park from July 7-12 with top ranked pros and 1,200+ amateur players competing for a $250,000 purse while fans enjoy local bands, food trucks, and pop-up courts nearby.

Cozy Worldwide

9:00 – 10:30 PM — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Ages 21+ — Enjoy an exciting night filled with cozy vibes and live performances.

Science on the Grand: A STEAM Conference for K-8 Inquiry-Based Educators

Teaching isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. That’s why we’ve crafted one amazing STEAM conference, filled with practical, teacher-tested ideas that will fuel your teaching fire. Experience NGSS-aligned sessions focused on cutting-edge, inquiry-driven, and classroom-ready strategies.

Derek Hough Live Performance

8:00 – 11:00 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets from $85 — Enjoy a thrilling evening of dance and entertainment with Derek Hough.

Shakey Graves Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Meijer Gardens — Tickets from $67 — Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Shakey Graves at this beautiful outdoor venue.

Upheaval Festival 2026

13:00-21:00 — Belknap Park — $29.79 – $2,979.00 — Experience an epic two-day rock festival featuring top artists in Grand Rapids.

Upheaval Festival Featuring Papa Roach

12-9 p.m. — Belknap Park — Saturday Pass Only — Experience a day filled with exciting performances from Papa Roach, Bilmuri, and more.

Buddy Guy Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Meijer Gardens — Tickets starting at $129 — Experience the legendary blues artist Buddy Guy live in concert.

Johnny Mullenax Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Tickets available — Experience a funky country bluegrass good time with Johnny Mullenax, a genre-bending musician from Tulsa.

Grand Rapids Symphony: Star Wars - The Empire Strikes Back In Concert

7:30-10:30 PM — Acrisure Amphitheater — Check event page for pricing — Experience the iconic score live as the classic film unfolds on the big screen.

The Format Live Concert

12-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices vary — Experience the musical rebirth of The Format as they debut new songs and celebrate their roots.