Good morning, Grand Rapids.

On Sunday, the Erie Canal turned 200 years old when it opened on Oct.26 and showed how the waterway helped shape Michigan’s travel and trade—boosting settlement and commerce in the state.

Historians say the canal, built with manual labor and ingenuity, spurred economic growth and changed migration patterns over the centuries.

Firefighter Jared Yax of Walker uses his special National Heritage Responder certification from the HEART program to protect cultural sites during disasters — he helps museums, churches and libraries save artwork and historical items by organizing emergency rescue efforts.

His work blends firefighting with museum skills to keep art and history safe in emergencies.

The National WIC Association warned that if the shutdown continues, many states will run out of funds for the WIC program on November 1—putting nearly 7 million low-income families at risk of losing food benefits.

Some states have already arranged emergency support while Michigan’s WIC program remains open, and officials are calling on the White House to provide additional funds.

More than 70 road projects will cause 13 planned closures across Michigan this week — affecting major routes like I-94, I-75, and US-131 and requiring detours as drivers face lane restrictions from set hours up to several days until Nov.

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Tony Herzberg, a 72-year-old recovering cancer patient, volunteered at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital on October 26th—he greeted visitors, helped them find their way, and shared words of encouragement from his own experience.

Before trick-or-treaters hit the streets this Halloween, the American Red Cross in East Grand Rapids advises families to choose light-colored costumes and wear face paint instead of masks (to help them see better) while planning safe routes with flashlights or glow sticks.

Homeowners are urged to keep walkways well-lit and avoid open flames in jack-o-lanterns (using battery-powered candlelight for safety) to cut accident risks.

2025 Great Lakes Summit

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — L.V. Eberhard Center — Registration required — Engage with industry experts at Michigan's inaugural summit for data and analytics professionals.

Trunk or Treat Event

6-7:30 p.m. — Messiah Lutheran Church — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of treats, games, and family fun in a festive outdoor setting.

Thunderstruck - America's AC/DC Tribute

8-11 p.m. — The Intersection — Tickets required — Experience the high voltage energy of America's premier AC/DC tribute band live on stage.

Grand Rapids Ballet: Sherlock

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Peter Martin Wege Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating ballet that immerses you in the world of Sherlock Holmes with stunning choreography and storytelling.

Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band Concert

5-6:30 p.m. — Royce Auditorium — Tickets from $76 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band in Grand Rapids.

State Champs Concert

6-9 p.m. — The Stache — Tickets available — Experience high-energy pop-punk as State Champs showcases their latest album.

The Book of Mormon

7:30-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets required — Experience the nine-time Tony Award-winning musical hailed as “the best of this century.”

Vended Live Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Stache — Purchase tickets online — Experience Vended's energetic performance pushing the boundaries of heavy music.

Dogs In A Pile Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices vary — Experience the eclectic sounds of Dogs In A Pile as they blend funk, jazz, and rock on stage.

Ryan Hurd Live Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Tickets available — Experience the chart-topping hits of Nashville's own Ryan Hurd in an electrifying live performance.