🌱 Former State Rep. Runs For Mayor + Free Bicycle Helmets For Kids

Good morning, friends. It's me, Nicole Fallon-Peek, your host of the Grand Rapids Patch newsletter — here to explain all the most important things happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Wednesday: A t-storm around in the p.m.. High: 88 Low: 66.
• Thursday: Mostly sunny and hot. High: 93 Low: 69.

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Here are the top three stories today in Grand Rapids:

1. Former Democratic state representative David LaGrand announced he will be running to serve as the next mayor of Grand Rapids. LaGrand, who represented the city for six years before being term-limited out of office last year, says as mayor, he plans to prioritize housing affordability around the city, public safety, and government transparency. LaGrand was previously elected to the Grand Rapids City Commission and the Grand Rapids Public School Board. He also owns and manages Long Road Distillers. (WZZM)
2. Kent County Sheriff's Office is being sued by a group of Muslim rights activists after forcing a Black Muslim woman to remove her hijab for a booking photo. In April, 21-year-old Jannah Hague was arrested following a domestic altercation at her home, and according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations Michigan Chapter, the sheriff's office violated Hague's religious rights as well as their own policy. The photo was released on the department's website, although Hague was released without any charges. (Metro Times)
3. On Saturday, Jun. 3, Sinas Dramis Law Firm will be bringing back its "Lids for Kids" bike helmet giveaway event at Garfield Park. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and aims to protect a child's head from injuries, showcase the importance of bike safety, and provide young riders with a properly fitting helmet. Attendees will also have the opportunity to register for a free bike giveaway, learn additional safety tips, enjoy family-friendly activities, and meet with local firefighters. (WWMT)

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Today in Grand Rapids:

Wednesday, May 31

• Toddler Time At Launch Entertainment Park (10:00 AM)
• Fulton Farmers Market At 1147 East Fulton Street (8:00 AM)

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From my notebook:

• In Grand Rapids Uptown Neighborhood, Gatos Mexican Buffet will be replacing Cantina Los Amigos very soon. This will be the first-ever Mexican buffet in the city and will feature authentic dishes and traditional recipes that have been passed down for many generations. The restaurant's exact opening date hasn't been announced yet. (WGRD)
• This summer, the SECOM Resource Center will be offering free meals to people under the age of 18 in the Grand Rapids area. They will also be providing these meals for anyone with special needs under the age of 26. This initiative will begin on Tuesday, Jun. 13 and the center notes that there will be tables and chairs available for guests since meals must be eaten on-site. (Fox 17 Online)
• Looking for a fun summer activity to do with the whole family? The City of Grand Rapids will be offering free kayaking sessions in partnership with their Food Truck Friday events. Attendees will have the opportunity to partake in 20-minute kayak rides at Riverside Park on a first-come, first-served basis. (WGRD)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Wednesday off right. I'll see you back in your inbox soon with your next update!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.