Good morning, Grand Rapids.

A report shows impaired driving killed 447 people in Michigan in 2024 + nearly 41% of traffic deaths involved alcohol or drugs + crashes hit their lowest level in a decade.

Walmart and Sam’s Club are recalling a multi-tool with a knife that does not fully fold and battery‑powered gloves that overheat — the recall also covers other products with contamination and labeling issues, and the retailers removed these items from shelves to help keep customers safe.

The 2025 Advanced Manufacturing Expo started yesterday and runs today at 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. at DeVos Place—this 10th anniversary event features nearly 250 exhibitors showing new robotics and machine building tech while offering free registration and two-hour parking for the first 2,000 guests.

Steelcase Inc., the city’s largest office furniture maker, will be bought by HNI Corporation in a $2.2 billion cash and stock deal that gives Steelcase shareholders a 36% stake in the new company.

The companies will work separately until the end of this year — Steelcase will keep its local headquarters and brand as HNI expands its offerings in health care, education and hospitality to boost combined sales to $5.8 billion.

A Glimpse of Africa Festival will return to Calder Plaza this weekend — it will run from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday while offering Kenyan food, dancing, music, and a flag parade for 54 African countries.

Founder Fridah Kanini says the festival will help the community learn about and celebrate its growing number of new Americans in West Michigan.

John Ball Zoo has revealed renderings for a $370 million waterfront aquarium planned for a 190-acre site along the Grand River in Walker — the project will transform a former landfill with environmental tests underway.

The aquarium will feature interactive exhibits, public wetlands, and research facilities — officials say it is expected to boost the local economy and create thousands of jobs before it opens in 2031.

After 17 years leading Davenport University and boosting graduation and retention rates, Richard Pappas (Ed.D.) will retire on June 30, 2026.

The Board of Trustees will soon begin their search for a new leader to build on the university's success.

The Krank Daddies with Red Hot Voodoo

9:00–11:59 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Ticketed event — Rock out with The World Famous Krank Daddies as they bring their Raw Rippin' Rock 'N' Roll show to Grand Rapids.

Cedar Rapids Kernels vs. West Michigan Whitecaps

3-6 p.m. — LMCU Ballpark — Check for ticket prices — Catch a thrilling Minor League Baseball matchup between the Cedar Rapids Kernels and West Michigan Whitecaps.

Jake Scott Live

7-9 p.m. — Elevation — Ticketed event — Experience a multi-platinum artist's heartfelt storytelling and memorable performances.

August Wine School at Reds

7-9 p.m. — Reds at Thousand Oaks — $55 per person — Experience an evening of wine education with five pours and small plates inspired by Tuscany.

Karl Denson's Tiny Universe Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Elevation — Cost not specified — Experience a night of electrifying music from a legendary band with over 25 years in the industry.

The Last Call Band

7-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — $6.63 — Enjoy an evening of Americana music with The Last Call Band in a cozy venue.

Eddie Gossling Comedy Show

7:15-8:45 p.m. — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Ticket prices available — Enjoy a night of laughter with Eddie Gossling's stand-up performance.

Eddie Gossling Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:15-8:45 p.m. — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Tickets available — Laugh along with Eddie Gossling as he delivers his hilarious takes on life.

Imminent Sonic Destruction Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Entry cost varies — Experience a night of music with Whirlwind by Entransient and emotional lyrical storytelling.

The Pink Stones Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Check for cover — Experience the unique blend of honkytonk, trucker anthems, and gospel from The Pink Stones.