Good morning, Grand Rapids.

West Michigan families can receive free backpacks on Sunday, July 26 at 1 p.m. at Verizon stores during Round Room LLC’s School Rocks Backpack Giveaway – among 140,000 bags distributed at 19 stores including three in Grand Rapids, some offer a keychain and a chance at a $250 Visa card.

Country Sundae Ice Cream Shop in Hudsonville reopened Tuesday with new local owners at 6481 28th Ave. The shop now features a renovated exterior and modern ice cream machines to serve summer customers.

Celebration Cinema North is the only theater in Michigan showing 'The Odyssey' in IMAX 15/70 today, featuring a 52-by-70-foot screen & powerful sound system.

Tickets sold fast with over 4,000 bought in the first 90 minutes, and the film will run round-the-clock for two weeks.

Frederik Meijer Gardens postponed Thursday’s Shakey Graves concert due to hazardous air quality and rescheduled it for Sept.

18. Tickets purchased for the original July 16 event remain valid + guests unable to attend will receive refund details.

Ada Township banned EcoShield Pest Solution from door-to-door solicitation for the rest of the year after repeated complaints about rule violations — township officials said the company may reapply for permits in 2027.

Outdoor workers in Grand Rapids received water and N-95 masks on Thursday after air quality levels spiked over 500, leading the city to limit time spent outdoors while essential services continued.

An employment attorney said Michigan law does not provide extra protections unless a worker has a condition (like asthma) that requires special accommodation.

AC Grand Rapids will debut in 2027 at Amway Stadium (8500 capacity) after drawing over 4,000 season ticket deposits and hosting packed World Cup watch parties.

Club leaders hope local soccer passion will turn early excitement into steady attendance.

The Motor City Classic Baseball Tournament continued play yesterday at Meijer Sports Complex amid smoky air that made breathing and visibility challenging — officials said they will monitor conditions as games continue through Saturday.

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.

Little Stranger Live Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic alt indie hip-hop duo bringing their unique sound to Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids Ballet School: Adult Summer Showcase

8:15-11:15 p.m. — Peter Martin Wege Theatre — Cost not specified — Celebrate the artistry and dedication of adult dancers after a week of intensive ballet training.

VIP Album Signing with Lou Gramm

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Acrisure Amphitheater — Concert tickets sold separately — Meet the legendary singer Lou Gramm up close and get your album signed.