Daren Bower

3 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

ROCKFORD, Mich. — Michigan's crucial summer tourism season is underway, bringing significant economic benefits to the state. According to Pure Michigan, tourism plays a major role as an economic driver in the state. In 2023, 128.3 million visitors contributed $29.3 billion in spending to Michigan's economy and supported more than 364,000 jobs. In Kent County alone, tourism had a $1.8 billion economic impact. The Start of Summer Celebration in Rockford exemplifies this tourism boost.

3 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital is undertaking multiple construction projects to meet increasing demand for its services, including completing the unfinished sixth floor of its West Patient Tower. The sixth floor's south half has remained unused for a decade since the west addition was built. According to Samantha Taylor, project manager at Mary Free Bed, the hospital has been operating at over 90% capacity in recent months, up from 86% last year.

4 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

BYRON TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A new $46 million mental health hospital is set to open in West Michigan to address the growing need for inpatient psychiatric care in the region. Trinity Health Michigan and Universal Health Services have partnered to build Southridge Behavioral Hospital, a 96-bed facility designed to create a comfortable environment for patients seeking mental health treatment.

1 month ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

ROCKFORD, Mich. — A fermented tea beverage with ancient origins is gaining popularity in West Michigan, where one local business owner has found success sharing kombucha with the community. Jennifer Makowski, owner of the Boochie Bar, opened her first location in 2023 after experiencing the health benefits of kombucha firsthand. "Kombucha was the one that was the most life-changing for me.

1 month ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

JAMESTOWN TOWNSHIP, Mich. — After closing its doors earlier this month, following mass staff resignations, Patmos Library in Jamestown Township reopened Tuesday with a new interim director. The library was forced to close on May 9 when staff members resigned, citing conflicts with the library board. "I was disappointed to see the former librarians leave. They were an integral part of the experience here at Patmos," said one library patron.