Good morning, Grand Rapids.

On Saturday, over 100 veterans participated in the ninth annual Fishing with Veterans event in Holland where they fished on Lake Michigan and were greeted with a hero’s welcome—organizers said the success of the parade and camaraderie among participants will help shape next year’s event.

Two West Michigan men, Tommy Gehl and Michael Vansuilichem, are nearing the end of a 2,400-mile bike ride from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles to raise money for the LA Fire Department Foundation, and they are now in Arizona after riding nearly 1,800 miles.

They said they will reach Los Angeles on Sunday July 20th if all goes as planned—facing harsh weather and extra breaks on the long ride.

On Saturday afternoon, Lee Township honored Staff Sgt. Saul Gonzalez, a Pullman native who died in a non-combat incident in Iraq on June 17 at age 26.

Community members gathered to lower flags and salute his memory + local leaders offered support to the Gonzalez family.

A man was hit by two cars while crossing the street in Grand Rapids—he was taken to the hospital late Friday night.

A 24-year-old man was hit by two eastbound cars while crossing Burton Street near Ionia Avenue around 11 p.m. Friday and was taken to the hospital in critical condition—police said he is expected to survive.

Local candy brand Munchy Llama in Comstock Park earned a loyal following with its build-your-own fluff bucket sundaes that use unusual bases like cotton candy, waffles, or chips—its storefront also runs as a full candy factory that supplies local shops.

Owner Joel Miedema said the creative approach fuels a unique experience that sets the business apart.

Deputies say that 24-year-old Jessica Boelema did not return to her Adult Foster Care home in Holland Twp on July 11 and investigators believe she may be with unknown people while she was last seen wearing a black and white long-sleeved shirt and black pants.

On Saturday, people gathered at Rosa Parks Circle for a family-friendly music festival featuring smooth jazz, old school R&B, gospel, acapella and ballroom music.

West Michigan Music Group said the event celebrated All American Month and promoted American-made values—bringing good vibes to Grand Rapids.

Edward Winterhalder spent nearly 30 years riding motorcycles as an outlaw biker in West Michigan and owned more than 500 bikes.

He now writes books and works on films — sharing his story with others — as he documents biker culture.

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.

Youth Baseball Skill Development Camp

9 AM – 3 PM — Cornerstone University — Tuition based — Improve baseball skills with experienced coaches and CU players in a fun summer camp setting.

REDFERRIN Live in Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices TBD — Experience the electrifying sounds of Warner Music Nashville’s rising star Redferrin and his unique blend of country and hip-hop.

Coconut Telegraph: A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show

7 PM – 1 AM — Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm — Ticket price not listed — Experience the festive vibes of a Jimmy Buffett concert replicated in a tribute performance.