Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Eight-year-old Sylvan Ross, who was diagnosed 14 months ago with a rare brain tumor called diffuse midline glioma, was surprised Friday night by local nonprofit Blue’s Gym when he received a lifetime membership and new boxing gloves — his mother said the gifts brought hope during a difficult time. A fundraiser for Sylvan will be held on October 26 at Twisted Bowl from 6 to 10 p.m. to help cover hospital bills and treatment costs.

Grand Rapids resident Dusty VanDermeer has set up elaborate Halloween decorations on Covell Ave. and Kenning Dr.—which drew about 80-90 trick-or-treaters last year—and his display is growing each season.

John Ball Zoo will host Zoo Goes Boo for the next three weekends with 13 candy booths spread throughout the park, giving families a fun way to enjoy the season.

Acrisure, a Grand Rapids-based insurance and technology firm, will cut 400 accounting positions in 2026, with 200 jobs affected in West Michigan, as it automates work with artificial intelligence (AI).

CEO Greg Williams said the move is part of a five-year plan to streamline operations.

The West Michigan Tourist Association has announced a series of fall events for October including Fall Fun Saturdays at Crystal Mountain happening today and on October 18 and 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. — Journeyman’s Barrel Aged Brewfest is set for today from noon to 5:00 p.m. with a Halloween dance on October 31, while the John Ball Zoo hosts Zoo goes Boo from October 10 to 26 with family treats and live shows.

TikTok creators Tori Mutch and Ryan began filming trivia contests in downtown Grand Rapids in 2023, where contestants answer questions to win cash by breaking neon eggs.

Their videos—shot near MadCap Coffee Company and MoJo’s on Friday evenings—have grown a viral following as people join in the fun.

Grand Rapids city leaders scrapped the Navarro Plaza name after residents opposed it and will consider naming the new park Unity Park at a public hearing on Oct.

21 at city hall. The new park (valued at $2.3 million) under construction at 680 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW (in Roosevelt Park) will include play areas, café seating and flexible spaces and is set to open by year-end.

Eastbound I-196 is closed at US-131 this weekend for bridge work and will reopen at 6 a.m. Monday.

Drivers should use northbound US-131 to reach eastbound I-96—since the ramp from northbound US-131 to eastbound I-196 and part of the ramp from eastbound I-196 to southbound US-131 are closed—to avoid delays.

Hospice of Michigan is raising money to endow its pediatric care program named for longtime supporter Jo Elyn Nyman so it can care for nearly 100 children and families each year.

The fundraiser—covering annual costs of $500,000 to $800,000—has raised about $1.5 million and aims to reach $4 million by the end of next year.

Wedgwood Christian Services opened its Audere Transitional Living Program on Thursday to help teens aged 15 to 18 build the skills needed for independent living—celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. at the 7,933 square-foot facility at 3508 Shaffer Avenue SE, which now offers a safe and stable environment for those finishing residential treatment.

Autism Alliance of Michigan said its free autism navigator service will pause new requests because over $2 million was cut from the state budget signed earlier this week.

Dr. Colleen Allen urged families to contact their representatives and donate for supplemental funding (the service remains free) as the alliance works to resume new requests soon.

Local high school football games took place Friday night as teams battled for playoff spots across West Michigan with key results like Kent City's 45-14 win over Central Montcalm — Grand Rapids Catholic Central won 35-7 over Holland Christian — and more highlights coming every Friday.

The Third Mind Live Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Tickets available — Experience a supergroup inspired by psychedelic improvisation with captivating vocals by Jesse Sykes.

Maddox Batson Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Check website for ticket prices — Experience the remarkable songwriting of a young talent who navigates the music scene with wisdom beyond his years.

Squeaky Feet Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Stache — $10 — Experience the electrifying fusion of progressive rock and jazz with a modern twist.

Music in the Stacks: Gemini Moon

6-7 p.m. — Grand Rapids Public Library — Free entry — Enjoy original tunes and classic rock riffs from Gemini Moon in a cozy library setting.

TAUK Concert

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices vary — Experience an innovative fusion of sound and improvisation with the acclaimed band TAUK.

Southeast Area Farmers Market with Friends of GR Parks Pumpkin Party

3 p.m. — Dean Lake Park — Free admission — Celebrate fall with local vendors and pumpkin-themed fun for the whole family.

Cage The Elephant Concert

6-9 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Ticketed event — Experience an evening with the uniquely self-aware and poignant sounds of Cage The Elephant.

Storytime for Young Readers

10:00-10:30 a.m. — Allendale Twp Library — Free entry — Enjoy storytime with songs and early literacy fun designed for kids under 6 with a caregiver.

Neon Trees Live in Grand Rapids

8-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Tickets available — Experience an evening of dynamic rock and heartfelt authenticity with Neon Trees as they promote their new album.

Tate McRae Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices range from $132 to $218 — Experience an electrifying evening with Tate McRae live in concert.