Good morning, Grand Rapids.

East Grand Rapids approved final design efforts to transform Waterfront Park with plans for wetland restoration, trails, a playground and additional parking; funding includes $500,000 from a parks millage and $500,000 from a state grant (totaling $1 million) and design work continues through 2026 with construction potentially beginning in 2027.

Big Girl Playground, a 17-foot bronze playscape by artist Tom Otterness, opened on May 22 at Meijer Gardens in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden, replacing the old butterfly maze; new amenities include Mary’s Ice Cream Parlor (open since mid-April) and upgraded facilities as part of a phased refresh.

Michigan College Access Network received a two-year $160,000 grant from the Steelcase Foundation in June to launch the Kent County Attainment Accelerator, which will work with over 20 partners, including GRCC and Kent ISD, to help students access postsecondary opportunities.

Great Lakes water temperatures have risen with southern Lake Michigan near 77 degrees, Saginaw Bay almost 80, and western Lake Erie at 80, while Lake Superior remains colder (averaging about 44.8 degrees).

Hot weather this weekend will push the warmth further into local beaches.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said 1,562 cyclosporiasis cases have been reported since June 22, including the first confirmed cases in Kent County in less than one month.

Officials advise extra caution when preparing fresh produce (especially leafy greens and berries) to help reduce the risk of infection.

A baby delivered on I-96 near the M-6 loop in Kent County was found breathing and healthy after first responders answered a call on Wednesday evening that reported the newborn was not breathing.

Emergency teams, including state police and EMS, quickly assisted the calm mother and baby to hospital care.

GVSU’s Board voted on Friday, July 10 to buy the John G.

Russell Leadership Center at 120 Front Ave. SW for $9.7M and sell its Detroit Center at 163 Madison St. for $6.2M to the Detroit Athletic Club, advancing its downtown expansion plan.

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.

Grand Rapids Speed Dating Event for Singles in Their 40s and 50s

6-8 p.m. — O'Toole's Public House — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a fun and friendly atmosphere.