Wednesday, January 21st, 2026
Good morning, Grand Rapids. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 21st of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ British social media influencers Josh and Jase helped raise $47,000 for a Grand Rapids homeless shelter after a chance meeting at a local restaurant led to a tour of Mel Trotter Ministries — donations from followers worldwide will fund expanded outreach activities. FOX 17
- ➤ Irish Off Ionia, Grand Rapids’ largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration, will double its stages & drink tents this Saturday, March 14 at Calder Plaza from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The festival promises expanded space and improved guest service for an estimated 10,000 attendees. MLive
- ➤ Grand Rapids residents can enter WZZM's Disney On Ice Giveaway 2026 for a family of four tickets to Road Trip Adventures at Van Andel Arena; entries are accepted from 5:00 p.m. EST Jan. 20 until 11:59 p.m. EST Jan. 26, and winners will be notified on or about Jan. 27. ABC 13
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ On Jan. 19, Wyoming firefighters rescued two adults and one child from a burning apartment building on Clyde Park Avenue SW that displaced 33 residents, and the rescued received hospital treatment for smoke inhalation while officials investigate the cause. MLive
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Gaines Township Planning Commission will revisit Microsoft’s data center plan on Thursday, Feb. 12 at South Christian High School in Byron Center after postponing the hearing in December due to capacity issues. The meeting will consider rezoning 7147 Patterson Ave. SE for a light industrial project that supports the data center. MLive
- ➤ Grand Rapids’ parks department is hosting job fairs to fill seasonal and part-time roles at the new MLK community center and city parks — the fairs run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22 and from 4 to 6 p.m. on Jan. 29 at Neland Avenue Church. MLive
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Planned Parenthood has begun offering vasectomy services at its Grand Rapids location (425 Cherry St. SE) and plans to expand the option to additional sites throughout 2026. The low-risk outpatient procedure provides residents a new permanent birth control alternative. ABC 13
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ MSU Landscape Services manager Matt Bailey advises residents to remove lake effect snow in small increments so driveways, sidewalks, and vehicles do not get slippery; he recommends using a salt water mix on hard surfaces. Residents may use shovels or blowers to clear areas and ensure visibility on their cars. ABC 13
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ High school basketball season in Grand Rapids brings a new MVP of the Week award from 13 On Your Sidelines for Jan. 12-16; readers can vote until Thursday, Jan. 22 at 5:30 p.m. to choose standout nominees including C.J. Reynolds, Lizzie Wolthuis, Kyle Brown + Morgan Diekevers. ABC 13
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The Somm Series: Vino & Pintxos
7-9 p.m. — Grand Vin — $75 per person — Discover exquisite Spanish wines paired with delightful snacks led by experienced sommeliers.
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John Heffron Live Comedy Show
6:00 – 10:15 PM — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian John Heffron performing live.
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John Heffron Live
6:00 – 10:15 PM — Dr. Grins Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with the comedic stylings of John Heffron.
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Cabin Fever Psychic & Holistic Fair
10 AM – 6 PM — Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton — Free entry — Explore mystical vibes with aura photography, tarot readings, and more to break the winter blues.
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Methodology Melee: How We Build Digital Products
6-8 p.m. — Start Garden — Free entry — Discover the human side of digital product development through expert-led discussions and networking.
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Baby Storytime
10:00-10:30 a.m. — Allendale Twp Library — Free entry — Storytime filled with stories, songs, and play for little ones and their caregivers.
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Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert
6:30-7:45 p.m. — Wealthy Theatre — Get your tickets now to experience the harmonic soundscapes of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons illuminated by candlelight.
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Grand Rapids Weekend to Remember
Jan 30- Feb 1 — Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton — Registration required — Discover oneness in your marriage through inspiring talks and retreats.
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The Emperor and the Swan - DTE Family Concert
10 AM - 1 PM — East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center — Family-friendly event — Experience a delightful musical journey with the Grand Rapids Symphony.
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Practicing Resilience in a Complex World
6 p.m. — Postma Center at Pine Rest — Free entry — Connect with the Fuller community over conversation and heavy appetizers while learning about local mental health initiatives.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.
~ Navy SEAL saying
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