2026 BUSINESS RECOGNITION AWARD NOMINATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS NOW OPEN
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber jhansen@smrchamber.com2026 BUSINESS RECOGNITION AWARD NOMINATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS NOW OPEN Chamber Seeking Public Nominations for Individuals and Businesses October 30, 2025 ST. JOSEPH, MI – As 2025 comes to a close, the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is inviting the public to nominate exceptional individuals and businesses who have made a meaningful impact in and around our community
Makers Market kicks off the holiday season on Nov. 29 with one-of-a-kind gift items
The Makers Market will once again transform the Box Factory into a three-story artisan marketplace on Thanksgiving weekend. The bustling market takes place as part of Small Business Saturday, from 9am–5pm on November 29 at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St. in St. Joseph. A cash bar, food and desserts will add to the holiday cheer. All are welcome! Admission is $5, free for children 12 years and younger. The Makers Market is a daylong celebration of creativity, community, and one-of-a-kind gift
Lake Michigan College Dean Selected for Prestigious Michigan ACE Women's Network Leadership Mentorsh
Lake Michigan College is proud to announce that Dr. LaToya Mason, Dean of Health Sciences Education, has been selected as a mentee for the Michigan ACE Women's Network Senior-Level Leadership Job Shadow Program for the 2025-26 academic year. This prestigious opportunity marks a significant milestone for both Dr. Mason and the college as the program celebrates its tenth anniversary. The Shadow Program, now in its landmark tenth year, pairs aspiring women leaders with university presidents and senior
Meeting the Moment for Food Assistance
On November 1, the federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, will be paused. The 23,000+ Berrien County residents who rely on these benefits to help feed their families will be in need. That’s why Berrien Community Foundation is calling on the community to donate food items at one of eight donation sites. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides over $3 million in food aid in Berrien County every month. Those dollars are spent at our local
Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department brings magical mischief to the stage with “Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic”
The Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department presents a clever and imaginative comedy experience when they bring "Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic" to the LMC Mendel Center Hanson Theatre on the College’s Benton Harbor Campus. Performances are at 7 p.m. Nov. 20-22 and 2 p.m. Nov. 23. Concessions and a bar featuring a specialty cocktail will be available at each performance. Tickets are available online
Lake Michigan College recognizes outstanding alumni and supporters at annual event
During a ceremony at the Mendel Center on Saturday, Oct. 25, Lake Michigan College recognized its annual alumni and supporter award recipients. Three alumni awards are given annually: the Alumni Achievement Award, the Gladys Peeples-Burks Alumni Service Award, and the Clarence Beckwith Distinguished Alumni Award. In addition, the LMC Board of Trustees recognizes friends of the college who have championed the role of higher education in southwest Michigan with the Bernard C. Radde Distinguished Service
Families invited to ‘Make Your Wish’ holiday event Nov. 16 at Box Factory
The public is invited to join Girl Scout Troop #56011 and author Denise McGowan Tracy at a "make your wish" event at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St. The free event takes place on Sunday, November 16, beginning at 1:30pm, and includes a book presentation, sing-along and bake sale. Author and playwright Denise McGowan Tracy will read passages from her book, Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish, and lead a holiday sing-along accompanied by pianist Chris Hyatt. Hyatt, a musician and composer who
2025 SWMI & National September Housing Market - Slight Increase in Sales from a Year Ago
At the end of the peak selling season of 2025, house sales increased 3 percent in September from September 2024 (2167 vs. 2099). Sales dropped to 304 from 314 sold in August, the current record month for sales this year. Selling prices in September continued to rise and set records in the year-over-year comparison that reaches back to 2006. The number of houses sold in September increased 20 percent (fifty houses) from September 2024 (304 vs.254). The inventory of houses for sale dropped by eight houses
Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster America’s Economic Competitiveness Passes Commerce
Bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to increase America’s global economic competitiveness and spur international investment across the United States has passed the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. For decades, foreign direct investment in the U.S. has bolstered Michigan’s economy by creating good-paying, high demand jobs in communities across our state, supporting innovation through research and development, and boosting the export of American-made
“ROCKY HORROR SHOW – The Musical” (rated-R) Returns October 29th – Nov. 2nd at The GhostLight Theatre – featuring Guest Narrators, Audience Participation, Double Casts & More!
A fully staged production of “The Rocky Horror Show – The Musical” will be produced for the 3rd consecutive season at The GhostLight Theatre beginning October 29th through Halloween weekend, and Sunday, November 2nd. Stage Directed by GhostLight GM/Artistic Director Paul Mow and Co-Directed/Choreographed by Paige Mulick, Rocky Horror will also feature a different guest narrator each evening. This production is Rated-R for content, and is meant for mature audiences only. Only adults 18+ will be permitted
Berrien Community Foundation Recognizes LMC with Golden Acorn Award
BENTON HARBOR, MI – The Berrien Community Foundation recognized Lake Michigan College with the coveted Golden Acorn Award at its 73rd annual meeting this month. “Each year we recognize an organization that goes above and beyond to serve our community,” stated BCF Board Secretary Phil Molloy. “This year it is our honor to recognize Lake Michigan College for leadership, partnership, and dedication to the community,” he added. In addition to the award and recognition, LMC will receive a check for $4
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WILLOWBROOK FARMS OPENS PRE-ORDERS FOR PREMIUM PASTURE RAISED THANKSGIVING TURKEYS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Vanessa Frias Co-Owner/Co-Founder vanessa@willowbrookmi.com 574-386-7550 WILLOWBROOK FARMS OPENS PRE-ORDERS FOR PREMIUM PASTURE RAISED THANKSGIVING TURKEYS Pre-order now to guarantee your turkey and support Willowbrook Farms October 24, 2025 CASSOPOLIS, MI – Willowbrook Farms, the Cassopolis-based first-generation farm and proud recipient of the 2024 Cass County Farmer of the Year award, today announced the launch of its highly anticipated Thanksgiving
Fernwood to Host Annual Holiday Market on November 8, 10 am - 2 pm
Fernwood to Host Annual Holiday Market on November 8, 10 am - 2 pm NILES, MI – Browse a curated blend of local artisans, specialty food vendors, unique and artful plant material growers, and much more at Fernwood’s Holiday Market! Explore the market and discover more than 35 thoughtfully selected vendors from throughout the region. The Fernwood Gift Shop will be stocked with holiday items perfect for gift-giving to others or yourself! The Grateful Pie Company at Fernwood will have breakfast and lunch
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Ribbon Cutting Celebration for New 18-Hole Disc Golf Course at Glassman Park
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber jhansen@smrchamber.comRibbon Cutting Celebration for New 18-Hole Disc Golf Course at Glassman Park All are invited to join, Friday October 31st at 11:00am October 23, 2025 UNION PIER, MI – The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and New Buffalo Township invite the community to celebrate the grand opening of the brand-new 18-hole disc golf course at Glassman Park (16680 Glassman Road Union
Lake Michigan College Marketing & Communications Team Wins Four Awards at National Conference
Benton Harbor, MI – The Marketing & Communications team at Lake Michigan College has been recognized with four awards at the 2025 National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) District 3 conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. The team received three silver awards and one gold award for excellence in communications and marketing."These awards reflect our team's dedication to telling meaningful stories that resonate with our community," said Jennifer Shoemaker, Executive Director of Marketing and
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Veteran Makers Market at Sticky Spoons Jam
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Aiye Akhigbe Owner Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC stickyspoonsjam@gmail.com Veteran Makers Market at Sticky Spoons Jam All are invited to join, Sunday November 9th, 10:00- 3:00pm October 23, 2025 NILES, MI – On Sunday, November 9, from 10am to 3pm, Sticky Spoons Jam is proud to host its Veteran Makers Market featuring nine small veteran-owned businesses, each bringing their unique craft to the table - from macrame and soap to woodwork, knitted blankets, and
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2025 HALLOWEEN FESTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF OCTOBER
ST. JOSEPH, MI—St. Joe Today and participating businesses invite the SWMI community to enjoy two great Halloween events this October - Pumpkins on Parade and Halloween Trick-Or-Treat! SWMI businesses and restaurants will display their decorated pumpkins during Pumpkins on Parade, October 20-31. The community is invited to visit participating locations to view the pumpkins and vote for their favorite. Votes can be cast online at stjoetoday.com/vote until 11:59p October 30. The top three winners will be
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Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and Greater Niles Chamber Announce Historic Partnership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber ahavlicek@smrchamber.com Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and Greater Niles Chamber Announce Historic Partnership First-of-its-kind alignment strengthens regional collaboration and competitiveness October 22, 2025 NILES, MI – The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and the Greater Niles Chamber have announced a formal partnership designed to strengthen regional collaboration, improve
New diagnostic medical sonography lab at Lake Michigan College on display during Oct. 30 public open house
BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – Lake Michigan College will showcase a $377,000 investment in regional health care training when it hosts a community open house of its newly renovated diagnostic medical sonography lab. The open house will be held 3 – 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30, in the Main Academic Building on the LMC Benton Harbor Campus located at 2755 E. Napier Avenue. The event will include tours of the new labs, ultrasound equipment demonstrations, and refreshments. The sonography lab is located on the first
Celebrate “The Pearl on Broad Street” at the Box Factory’s Member Show
The Box Factory for the Arts presents its Series 6 Exhibit – the annual Member Show, which showcases original works by over 50 regional artists, all of who are members of the Berrien Artist Guild. More than 100 pieces representing a variety of mediums will be exhibited in galleries on all three floors of the historic building. The public is invited, free of charge, to the Opening Reception on Friday, Nov. 7, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The evening’s festivities include a cash bar and refreshments. The
Regional Chamber, REALTORS® Back LMC Millage Renewals
The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS® have moved to endorse Lake Michigan College’s two millage renewals appearing on the Nov. 4 ballot, citing workforce development, economic stability, and community vitality as compelling reasons for their support. According to the Chamber, the region’s employers continue to face unprecedented challenges finding qualified workers—particularly candidates with the technical skills, certifications, and hands-on
Hickory Creek Revival celebrates its musical roots in concert at the Box Factory on Nov. 8
The band Hickory Creek Revival is made up of four siblings who grew up playing folk and bluegrass music in St. Joseph, MI. Now accomplished musicians, songwriters and poets, the Willeys will return to their hometown for a festive concert on Saturday, November 8, from 7-9 p.m. at the Box Factory for the Arts. At the performance, they will also unveil a short documentary about their latest project. Reserve your seats for this popular band! Tickets are $15 cabaret seating and $12 general admission
Attention Is the New Currency: Smart Ways Small Brands Earn It and Keep It
Modern consumers scroll fast, decide faster, and remember little — unless you give them a reason to stop. For startups and small businesses, that means every second of attention must count. This guide unpacks practical, non-gimmicky strategies to attract, convert, and retain time-pressed customers while building long-term trust. TL;DR If you only have 30 seconds: Lead with clarity and empathy, not complexity. Make your first impression friction-free — one click, one message, one
Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Names New Director
The Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Authority Board has announced the appointment of Christopher Beckman as the new Airport Director, following a unanimous vote during the board’s Aug. 21st meeting. The decision came after a thorough search and recommendation from the Airport’s hiring committee. Beckman brings over a decade of military and civilian aviation management experience to the position, having served in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard. His background includes overseeing large-scale
LMC students earn spots on Summer President’s, Dean’s Lists 2025
Lake Michigan College has announced the names of students recognized for academic achievement during the 2025 Summer semester.There were three students named to the President’s List, achieving a 4.0 GPA at full-time status. The Dean’s List, meanwhile, includes 19 full-time students and 175 part-time students who achieved a 3.5 GPA or higher. President’s ListBenton HarborIsaiah NemethyGrand JunctionMichelle GibsonNilesJacob WecklerSaint Joseph Christopher BelinStevensville Rachel Moguel Dean’s
2025 Comcast Business Small Business Cybersecurity Guide
Cyber threats are growing in both volume and complexity, and small businesses like yours now face an even greater risk. Comcast Business is here to help. Get our Small Business Cybersecurity Guide to learn more about how you can help protect your business.
LMC Concert Choir and Middle School Honors Choir Unite to Celebrate Female Composers Oct. 28
Top middle school singers will unite with Lake Michigan College's Concert Choir to celebrate the artistic brilliance and creativity of women who have enriched choral music during Illuminate: Shining a Light on Female Composers and Arrangers. The free performance will happen at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28 on the LMC Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre stage, located on the College’s Benton Harbor campus at 2755 E. Napier Ave. The concert features a diverse repertoire spanning centuries, from sacred Baroque works to
Trevor Strefling Named to YMCA of Greater Michiana Board of Directors
The YMCA of Greater Michiana is proud to announce the appointment of Trevor A. Strefling, partner at Tyler Automotive in Niles, Michigan, to its Board of Directors. Strefling brings a strong commitment to community involvement, family values, and people-centered leadership, along with a personal connection to the YMCA’s mission of strengthening families and youth development. A longtime supporter of health and wellness, he credits his experiences growing up at the South Bend YMCA with shaping his belief in
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Honor Credit Union Announces Final Numbers from 2025 Free Community Shred Days
Honor Credit Union Announces Final Numbers from 2025 Free Community Shred Days BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – October 7, 2025 – Honor Credit Union is proud to announce the success of its 2025 Free Community Shred Days, making a meaningful impact across Michigan. In partnership with NAID Certified Data Guardian and Country Mile Document Destruction, Honor hosted 10 statewide shred events this year. Together, these events securely disposed of 66,960 pounds of paper, helping communities protect personal
Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience Coming to the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center
For more than a decade, Theresa Caputo—known worldwide as the Long Island Medium—has touched the lives of millions of fans, comforting supporters when they need it most. Now Southwest Michigan fans will get their chance at healing when the acclaimed medium and beloved personality appears live at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre in Benton Harbor on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for this extraordinary event will go on sale Friday, Oct. 10, at 10 a.m. and can be purchased
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NEW HALLOWEEN-THEMED EVENT, DOWNTOWN SPOOKTACULAR, OCTOBER 18
St. Joe Today hosts a new Halloween-themed event, Downtown Spooktacular, on Saturday, October 18, from 11:00a-4:00p in the grassy lot located at the corner of Lake Boulevard and Pleasant Street. Downtown Spooktacular activities include: Spooktacular Market | 11:00a-4:00pOutdoor Halloween-themed Artisan Market! Spooky Lighthouse Tours | 11:00a-4:00pEnjoy a free day at the St. Joe Lighthouse! Lighthouse volunteers will share the rich nautical history of St. Joseph/Benton Harbor as you explore the
american airlines’ Inaugural service to O’Hare to take off from SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
WHAT: American Airlines’ inaugural service from South Bend International Airport (SBN) to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) takes off operated by regional partner, The Landline Company, on a 35-seat luxury motorcoach. To celebrate the new service, passengers on board the 1:35 p.m. departure will be treated to a gate party with snacks and SBN giveaways. Passengers will board from SBN’s newest Gate 10. Two SBN Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting trucks will send off the departure with a water
2025 SWMI & National August Housing Market Hits the Highest Point for the Year
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales in August 2025 were the highest of the year and were the first time in the year when sales were over 300 homes sold. Sellers benefited from higher selling prices in August compared to August 2024. Selling prices reached their highest level compared to a year ago and for the last twenty years in the year-over-year comparison,” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of
Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees Invites Community Input on Presidential Candidate Dr. Ken Flowers
The Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees announced today that it is considering Dr. Ken Flowers, Executive Vice President, for the position of College President and is inviting the community to participate in an open forum to meet the candidate. Following open forums held in mid-September where input was shared on desired qualities for the institution's next president, the Board has advanced Dr. Flowers as a candidate in the search process. The Board emphasized that this represents one step in a
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Honor Credit Union Promotes Dr. Paige Eagan, Ph.D. to Board Director
Honor Credit Union Promotes Dr. Paige Eagan, Ph.D. to Board Director BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – OCTOBER 2, 2025 – Honor Credit Union is proud to announce the promotion of Dr. Paige Eagan, Ph.D. to Director on its Board of Directors. Elected to the role on September 16, 2025, following two years of service as an Associate Director, Dr. Eagan brings a wealth of professional experience, strong community engagement, and a deep commitment to Honor’s mission of providing financial solutions for its
St. Joseph, MI Businesses: How to Respond to the CTA, BOI and FinCEN Now
The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible criminal penalties. However, filing your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report will help you avoid fines
Regional Chamber’s HYPE Pitch Competition Fuels Dreams for Young Entrepreneurs
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO info@smrchamber.com 269-932-4042 Regional Chamber’s HYPE Pitch Competition Fuels Dreams for Young Entrepreneurs November 21, 2024 Stevensville, MI – Southwest Michigan’s brightest entrepreneurial talent gathered at the Watermark Solarium last night for the debut of HYPE – Highlighting Young Professional Excellence. Hosted by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber in partnership with the Emerge Innovation Hub, this dynamic
