Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: Could Grand Rapids water lines be the fix for PFAS-tainted wells?

Also, don't miss Tanger Outlets Grand Rapids Extends Holiday Shopping Hours for Last-Minute Gifting on the Grand Rapids Patch calendar

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Hi there, Grand Rapids! We've got your morning read ready! Read on to stay connected. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Could Grand Rapids water lines be the fix for PFAS-tainted wells?
  • How a new Microsoft data center could reshape Grand Rapids’ economy
  • Will Kent County donors help the Salvation Army hit $1.45M?

Also on today's calendar: Tanger Outlets Grand Rapids Extends Holiday Shopping Hours for Last-Minute Gifting and 3 more events.

Find out what's happening in Grand Rapidsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: Jimmy, did you crash on your bike again? You’ve lost a tooth! 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Grand Rapidsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Sunday: Quite cold with snow showers, with a high of 22 and low of 12 degrees. ⛄️ Brr!
  • Monday: A.M. flurries; cloudy, chilly, temps: high: 26, low: 21.
  • Tuesday: Not as cold, becoming breezy, with a high of 37 and low of 32 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. 'Terrified and really angry': Forest Hills residents react to excess PFAS found in water (fox17online.com) — Forest Hills neighbors just outside Grand Rapids are grappling with PFAS-contaminated well water, and the state is now expanding testing and offering free filters. EGLE is already designing a municipal water hookup for one nearby area and working with the Grand Rapids Water Department on a larger extension, a potential long-term fix that could directly affect many local households relying on private wells.
   

2. Microsoft preparing 356-acre site for data center south of Grand Rapids (crainsgrandrapids.com) — A massive Microsoft data center is being planned just south of Grand Rapids in Gaines Township, where officials are weighing a rezoning request for part of a 356-acre site near Patterson Avenue. If approved, the project would significantly expand the area’s growing data center cluster, add to the local tax base with limited infrastructure demands, and reinforce West Michigan’s position as a target for major tech investment.
   

3. Salvation Army in Kent County seeks to raise $1.45M through Red Kettle campaign (woodtv.com) — The Salvation Army in Grand Rapids and greater Kent County is pushing to raise $1.45 million through its Red Kettle campaign to support a large share of its $11 million budget. Leaders say the money helps neighbors with basics like heat, food, and Christmas gifts, including through the Angel Tree program that lets parents choose toys and receive grocery gift cards.
   

4. Expiring ACA tax credits could leave thousands uninsured, sparking protests statewide (wwmt.com) — Grand Rapids was one of three Michigan cities where health care advocates rallied this week, warning that expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits could sharply raise premiums. Organizers say thousands of Michiganders, including many in West Michigan, might drop coverage, straining hospitals and emergency rooms if Congress doesn’t act before the credits lapse. Local residents using ACA plans are urged to review options before open enrollment ends.
   

5. Legal marijuana among 5 reasons why craft beer is changing in Michigan (mlive.com) — Michigan’s once-booming craft beer scene is cooling, and Grand Rapids’ own Brewery Vivant is adapting by adding spirits, cocktails, and elevated food to stay competitive. Statewide, breweries are grappling with rising costs, shifting tastes, and competition from cannabis and canned cocktails, pushing many to focus on taproom experiences and diversified drink menus to survive.
   

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • It's Friday!!!!!
    Good morning everyone and happy Friday! Have a blessed day. (Nextdoor Downtown Market Lofts)
  • Hey Guys I Need Ideas.?
    This My 9month Old Baby Boy And He Has Really Bad Dry Skin It’s Starting To Look Like Carpet Burn.. What’s Some Good Baby Cream Products That’ll Help… (Nextdoor Madison Area)
  • Grand River Aseptic Manufacturing posted a job opening for Manufacturing Lead - Filling (Weekend Nights) in Grand Rapids. Apply here.
  • PrimeFlight Aviation Services posted a job opening for Ramp Agent - GRR Airport in Grand Rapids. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Grand Rapids here.

Ok Grand Rapids! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I didn’t lose a tooth, Mom. It’s right here in my pocket.
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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