Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The Wierenga family celebrated adoption day on Wednesday at downtown 17th Circuit Court, officially welcoming Violet who joins her brothers.

The joyful event brought a fresh start for the family & highlighted their deep bond.

Wreaths of Honor, a *nonprofit* in Zeeland, will place wreaths on veteran graves at Zeeland Cemetery this Saturday at 10 a.m. at 144 E.

Lincoln Ave. and offers snacks to those joining the tribute for over 700 veterans.

Kentwood shoppers can now give back at Woodland Mall as The Giving Machine lets donors use a credit card to support five local nonprofits by choosing options like gas or groceries.

The machine will be available until Jan. 4 and organizers hope to make it an annual tradition.

Pablo Sanchez’s moving speech on food insecurity inspired the Whatchamacallit Holiday Networking Gig to support SECOM Resource Center.

The free event will run from 6 to 9 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18 at Mammoth Distilling on Wealthy Street and offers coffee + breakfast, live music, and donation options.

A decades-long project has transformed farmland into a 34-acre prairie at Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve in Grattan Township (volunteer work finished Black Friday), now hosting over 150 native plant species and offering quiet hikes.

Visitors can enjoy seasonal beauty and connect with nature year-round.

John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids completed annual health exams on 24 Magellanic penguins on Dec.

11 — with each exam taking about 15 minutes — while staff deep cleaned the habitat as the zoo closed for the season.

Margaret Brown (Priority Health's Senior Director of Care Management) recommends healthy holiday gifts to support long-term wellness as Christmas nears, offering local residents practical ideas for lasting care.

At 111 Lyon St., a tower is being converted into 140 new apartments in downtown Grand Rapids—including one- and two-bedroom units (600 to 1,100 sqft) with move-ins set for end May or early June.

Estimated rents range from $1,500 to over $2,000.

Benny Mielock from Forest Hills Central was nominated for the state Hockey Player of the Year award last week and announced his commitment to Davenport University (reuniting him with his brother on the ice).

He leads his team and remains active in community service during his final high school season.

Bingo Loco – The Wildest Bingo Party

5-7 p.m. — The Intersection — Tickets Available — Experience the most outrageous bingo party featuring DJs, dance-offs, and wild prizes.

The Whoville 5k Fun Run

1:05-5:00 p.m. — Riverside Park — Registration fee applies — Experience a whimsical run with beloved Dr. Seuss characters and festive treats.

Business Growth Workshop

8-10 a.m. — Grand Rapids Chamber — Cost unknown — Gain essential tools for success in finances, operations, and marketing at this workshop.

Christmas Reflections Service

7:00-8:15 p.m. — Messiah Lutheran Church — Free entry — Reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ with Scripture lessons and carols, plus cookies and beverages afterward.

A Christmas Story Musical

7 p.m. — Matthews Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved tale of Ralphie's quest for the ultimate Christmas gift with a delightful musical score.

Grand Rapids Ballet - The Nutcracker

7:30-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting journey of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince in this timeless holiday ballet filled with magic and unforgettable music.

Mega 80's - The Ultimate 80's Retro Party

8-11 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket info not provided — Experience the vibrant sounds and styles of the 80’s with live music and retro flair.

Tuba Christmas 2025

3-4 p.m. — Grand Rapids Public Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a festive concert featuring a charming ensemble of tubas and brass instruments.

Chris Casello Trio with The Venturis

6-10 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — 21+ — Enjoy live rockabilly and surf rock tunes from the talented Chris Casello Trio and The Venturis.

Great Lakes Invitational

3:30-5 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Watch top college hockey teams clash for the MacInnes Cup in this exciting tournament.