Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The Salvation Army Grand Rapids Adult Rehabilitation Center is hosting a one-day thrift store event Saturday, Aug.

22, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 1491 Division Ave. S. in Grand Rapids, offering vintage clothing + unique finds with proceeds supporting addiction recovery services.

The Senior Neighbors center at Harvest Way Retirement Community in Sparta will close on Thursday, Aug.

27 after 21 years as officials say a locked-door policy kept non-residents out. A farewell picnic is planned at Wahlfield Park starting at noon Friday, Aug. 28.

Taco Bell on Michigan Street reopened after renovations and will stay open even if its building is sold, an employee confirmed.

The local restaurant, known as an urban legend, continues to serve fans their favorite Doritos Locos Tacos.

A free presentation will explore Pope Leo XIV's historical ties to Felt Estate at the Pump House Museum and Learning Center (2282 Ottawa Beach Road, Park Township) Wednesday, Aug.

26 at 7 p.m. Felt Estate executive director Elizabeth McEwen will lead the discussion.

Downtown Market will host the 2026 Christkindl Markt starting Nov.

18 with over 60 artisan vendors offering food and gifts + unique treats like porchetta sandwiches and chimney cakes. The event will run until Dec. 24 with modified hours on select days.

Parents at Kenowa Hills Public Schools signed a petition urging Superintendent Cherie Horner to step down over concerns about transparency, accountability and student safety.

The board will address the issue at a school meeting on Monday, Aug. 24 and the petition warns it may impact support for a future tax proposal.

The Grand Rapids—Kent County Convention/Arena Authority approved spending $175,000 for a feasibility study on a 400—600 room hotel at two downtown sites, including near DeVos Place.

Progressive Companies will complete the study in 13 weeks as part of a decade—long effort to boost conventions at local venues.

Business owners on Michigan Street say that recent growth, including new apartments and retail, has boosted activity in the corridor — a boost that local leaders plan to build on by selecting a strategic planner on Thursday at 3:30 p.m. at Grand Coney.

The Downtown Development Agency approved $50,000 to help cover half of the $100,000 shortfall for the Personal Belongings Storage Program at 40 Williams St. SW, a joint effort with Mel Trotter Ministries to secure personal items and clear downtown areas.

One board member contends that funds should support housing options.

Little Libraries for sickle cell education debut in three parks — the project kicks off with a community reading at Garfield Park pavilion at 6 p.m. on Aug.

24 and will run through October to help families learn together.

The Kent County Health Department has lifted the advisory for Myers Lake Park in Rockford, allowing swimmers to return, while visitors at Wabasis Campground in Greenville should avoid water contact until new test results are available on Monday, Aug.

24.

Plainfield Township approved a site plan in July for the Belmont Square Townhomes project at the northwest corner of Belmont Center Drive and Belmont Avenue.

The board will review the proposal on Sept. 14 and if approved, construction will begin this fall for 12 two- to three-bedroom homes.

Canfield Clean Air for a Cause

Canfield Plumbing & Heating invites West Michigan residents to help a local family breathe easier through Clean Air for a Cause. Now through September 21, 2026, nominate a deserving household to receive a whole-home indoor air quality upgrade valued at up to $10,000, including equipment and professional installation. Self-nominations are welcome, and no purchase is necessary. Visit Canfield’s Clean Air for a Cause page to learn more and submit a nomination.