Daren Bower

Belmont

Reporter at WXMI-TV (Grand Rapids, MI)

Multiple Emmy winning Reporter/MMJ currently working at Fox 17

Articles

Children's rehabilitation hospital reaches construction milestone

1 week ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

Construction of the Joan Secchia Children's Rehabilitation Hospital reached a significant milestone Thursday as crews placed the final steel beam on the $70 million facility. The ceremonial "topping off" came nine months after breaking ground on the project. Joan Secchia and other dignitaries attended the celebration marking the end of the steelwork phase. The 67,000-square-foot, three-story hospital is a partnership between Mary Free Bed and Helen DeVos Children's Hospital.
Developer plans mixed-use apartment building in Grandville

1 week ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

GRANDVILLE, Mich — A West Michigan developer is planning to transform a parking lot in downtown Grandville into a mixed-use apartment and retail complex, similar to a project nearing completion in Hudsonville. Trevor Petroelje, founder of Moxie Real Estate and Development, aims to bring urban-style living to suburban communities. "We like the suburbs of Grand Rapids. We don't usually do a whole lot of development in the city of Grand Rapids," Petroelje said.
Grand Rapids woman overcomes homelessness to earn a college degree

1 week ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Breaking the cycle of homelessness presents significant challenges, but one Grand Rapids young woman has defied the odds through determination and critical support services. Rashyah Weatherspoon, 22, recently became the first in her family to graduate from college, earning a degree in social work from Ferris State University. "I decided to just keep going through this, because I think it's so much more opportunity here for me," Weatherspoon said.
Police officer shot as bullets fly in Muskegon Heights neighborhood

1 week ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower |Zac Harmon

MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. — A Muskegon Heights police officer is in the hospital after being shot Monday morning. The officer was shot in the arm by a person near the intersection of Hovey Avenue and Baker Street before 8 a.m., per Police Chief Maurice Sain. The shooting was part of multiple gunshots heard in the neighborhood. "My daughter called me freaking out that a bullet went through her living room and I had to leave work," Courtney Smith told FOX 17.
Grand Rapids Public Library unveils new digital newspaper archive

2 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Public Library has digitized a significant portion of its local newspaper archives, making them available online for free. For years, researchers had to visit the library and use microfilm to access old newspapers. While the library is keeping its microfilm collection as a preservation format, the new digital archive offers a more efficient way to access local history.
Visser Farms opens new country market to showcase fresh produce

2 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

OLIVE TOWNSHIP, Mich. — As the growing season begins, Visser Farms in Ottawa County has opened a new farmers market on their property to sell freshly harvested vegetables. Fourth-generation farmer Phil Visser is already harvesting spinach planted in November, and recently planted potatoes are developing well. "I'm the fourth generation. My kids are the fifth, and my grandkids will be the sixth. We raise vegetables and from the field to you," said Phil Visser.
Local coffee shop expands despite rising costs, tariffs

2 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — While coffee prices rise globally due to bean shortages and tariffs, one local business is keeping costs steady for customers. Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge in Grand Rapids has managed to maintain its prices despite industry challenges. The shop has even expanded its reach, now selling coffee beans nationwide through its online store.
Narcan leave behind program aims to save lives in Kent County

3 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Kent County emergency services will soon provide Narcan kits to those at risk of opioid overdose as part of a new harm reduction initiative . Starting May 1, all three Kent County ambulance companies will carry Narcan kits to leave behind after treating someone dealing with addiction. "We do carry Narcan in our ambulances. Currently, that Narcan is for emergency situations.
Construction begins on $175 million Amway Stadium in Grand Rapids

3 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Construction of the new Amway Stadium officially began today with a ceremonial groundbreaking near the corner of Pearl Street and Mt. Vernon Avenue. The 8,500-seat stadium is expected to cost $175 million. It will be funded through public and private money, including $33 million from Amway for naming rights and an increase in the Kent County hotel tax.
West Michigan Catholics mourn the death of Pope Francis

3 weeks ago | fox17online.com | Daren Bower

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Catholics worldwide are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, whose messages of compassion resonated deeply in West Michigan communities. Staff at the Grand Rapids Diocese learned of the Pope's death early Monday morning. Very Reverend Colin Mulhall, Vicar General of the Grand Rapids Diocese, described the loss as that of a spiritual father. "He's a source of unity for us as Catholics," Mulhall said.