Ken Flowers of Lake Michigan College Selected for the Aspen Institute’s Rising Presidents Fellowship
Benton Harbor, MI — The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program (Aspen) recently announced that Dr. Ken Flowers, Executive Vice President at Lake Michigan College, is one of 40 exceptional leaders selected for the 2025-26 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship. Chosen from more than 120 applicants nationwide, Dr. Flowers joins a distinguished cohort of future college presidents who are dedicated to advancing student success and equity in higher education. The Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship
Freedom Center for the Arts presents ''summer songwriters''
Young "summer songwriters" will perform original work at 7 p.m. on August 2nd at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad Street, St. Joseph, MI. Tickets at https://ticketstripe.com/freedomcenter for the event are $15 for cabaret seating and $12 general admission. Tickets at the door will be $15 with children 12 and under admitted free. The inaugural "summer songwriters" program is hosted by Jeremy T. Butler of the Freedom Center for Arts and Education in Benton Harbor, MI. Musicians participated in a
Peats Cider Social Celebrates Five Years with Family-Friendly Bash on July 20th
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Dan Peat Owner dan@peatscidersocial.com www.peatscidersocial.comPeats Cider Social Celebrates Five Years with Family-Friendly Bash on July 20th For Immediate Release: July 15, 2025 Stevensville, Michigan – Raise a glass and cheers! Peat's Cider Social is celebrating five unforgettable years on Sunday, July 20th from 3–8 PM at its Stevensville taproom. What started as a dream to bring people together over small-batch, locally inspired hard cider has
LMC students earn spots on Spring 2025 President’s, Dean’s Lists
Lake Michigan College has announced the names of students recognized for academic achievement during the 2025 Spring semester.There were 69 students named to the President’s List, achieving a 4.0 GPA at full-time status. The Dean’s List, meanwhile, includes 195 full-time students and 474 part-time students who achieved a 3.5 GPA or higher.President’s ListBangorIsabel GarciaBarodaHailey Cote, Charley KrackerBenton Harbor Hailey Mercado, David Nichols, Emma Stout, Nathaniel TurnerBerrien CenterSteven
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WEDNESDAY NIGHT MARKET & FREE CONCERTS THIS SUMMER 2025 IN DOWNTOWN ST. JOE
St. Joe Today is excited to announce the return of both the Wednesday Brown Bag Concert Series and the Friday Night Concert Series. Both series will showcase regional musicians for a free hour-long concert each week in one of the most scenic venues along Lake Michigan’s shore. Performances will take place at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell on Port Street which offers concertgoers a beautiful view of the St. Joseph River, Lake Michigan, and downtown St. Joe. The Wednesday Brown Bag Concert Series offers
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Buchanan’s Got Talent: A New Community Showcase Celebrating Local Talent and the Arts
This summer, Cultural Arts Everywhere is thrilled to introduce a brand-new event to the community: Buchanan’s Got Talent, taking place on Tuesday, August 19 at 7:00 p.m. at The Buchanan Common.This special evening is designed to highlight and celebrate the incredible creativity and artistic talent that exists within our own town. From singers, dancers, jugglers, poets, and magicians to completely unique acts—we welcome all Buchanan residents to share their gifts on stage. Whether you're a seasoned performer
LMC Foundation Gives a Major Boost to Short Term Training Programs
BENTON HARBOR, Mich. — The Lake Michigan College Foundation has established a $100 thousand dollar scholarship fund for non-credit short term training programs to help employers and workers in Southwest Michigan. “Employers and job providers have told us short term training opportunities like the LMC Truck Driving School, and the Marine Maintenance Technology program are in high demand,” explained Doug Schaffer, Vice President of Advancement and Community Impact. “Those programs, however, are not
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Gym Rat Performance and Wellness Opens in Stevensville
For Immediate Release Media Contact: James Morris, PT, DPT, CSCS Owner james@gymratpw.com 269-999-4508 Gym Rat Performance and Wellness Opens in Stevensville Now Accepting Everyday Patients for Pro-Level Recovery FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2025 Stevensville, MI – What do you get when you take a self described gym rat, who happens to be a four–sport athlete, add a passion for Physical Therapy, and a desire to change clients mindset from “lifespan” to “healthspan”? You get James Morris PT,
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WEDNESDAY NIGHT MARKET & FREE CONCERTS THIS SUMMER IN DOWNTOWN ST. JOE 2025
ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — St. Joe Today is excited to announce the return of both the Wednesday Brown Bag Concert Series and the Friday Night Concert Series. Both series will showcase regional musicians for a free hour-long concert each week in one of the most scenic venues along Lake Michigan’s shore. Performances will take place at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell on Port Street which offers concertgoers a beautiful view of the St. Joseph River, Lake Michigan, and downtown St. Joe. The Wednesday Brown Bag
Lake Michigan College Awarded Grant to Expand Emergency Student Aid, Eliminate Barriers to Success
Lake Michigan College (LMC) is taking steps to ensure that students facing financial hardship can stay enrolled and complete their education. Thanks to a $99,954 MiLEAP Breaking Barriers Direct to Students grant, the College is launching a significant initiative to simplify and expand access to emergency aid. The project is led by Leslie Navarro, Director of Student Well-Being & Accessibility. “This is about removing roadblocks,” Navarro said. “Students who are in crisis don’t have time to navigate
The Sport Stash at Building 324 to Host Ribbon Cutting
Join the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce for a special ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, July 18th at 2pm! Buchanan, MI – The Sport Stash - “From Hobby to Hustle: Our Story” ”What started as a 9-year-old’s passion in 2018—sparked by the 2016 Chicago Cubs and a love for the game—quickly grew into something more. Fueled by a deep interest in collecting, our founder - Trevin Armstrong - turned a personal hobby into a full-fledged business. After launching in 2020 and building a strong presence online
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Applebee’s in Benton Harbor Celebrates Grand Reopening with Major Renovations & Community Giveback
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Emily Richett emily@gethappypr.com 616-350-2073 Applebee’s in Benton Harbor Celebrates Grand Reopening with Major Renovations & Community Giveback TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants celebrates a refreshed restaurant, local artwork, and a special donation to Present Pillars on July 21st FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 8, 2025 BENTON HARBOR, MI - TEAM Schostak Family Restaurants announces the grand reopening of its Applebee’s restaurant located at 2050 Pipestone
The GhostLight Theatre’s 2025 Young Apprentice production kicks off with Sarah DeLappe’s powerful 1-act play “The Wolves” July 17th-20th in Benton Harbor
The GhostLight Theatre continues its 2025 Theatre Season with **THE WOLVES – a play written Sarah DeLappe, & directed by Lindsay Gilmore-Gaspari (She Kills Monsters). The Wolves marks the 4th production of The GhostLight Theatre’s 6th season, and it will be presented in the GhostLight’s Black Box Theatre space from Thursday, July 17thh through Sunday, July 20th. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, curtain is at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 3 p.m. at 101 Hinkley Street in Benton Harbor. General Admission
EOPA and officials highlight how Benton Harbor’s clean energy and environmental initiatives will bring energy security, environmental justice and prosperity Federal, state and local grants help Bent
EOPA and officials highlight how Benton Harbor’s clean energy and environmental initiatives will bring energy security, environmental justice and prosperity Federal, state and local grants help Benton Harbor on the road to energy and environmental security HOST: Christian Brock, Elected Officials to Protect America, former Air Force Veteran SPEAKERS: Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad — keynote U.S. Congresswoman Haley Stevens (tentative) State Representative Joey Andrews Marcy Hamilton,
Three’s the Charm when Langford Lads Take the Stage at the Box Factory July 26
Three’s the Charm when Langford Lads Take the Stage at the Box Factory July 26 ST. JOSEPH, MI – Whether you love bouncy jigs, Gaelic ballads or breathtaking bluegrass pickin’ you’ll enjoy all those and more when the Langford Lads take the Box Factory stage. The Lads have entertained thousands with their astonishing mash-up of Irish, bluegrass, and American folk styles. That plus a beat-the-heat cash bar will be on tap Saturday, July 26, 7-9 p.m., at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St. Reserve
Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees Accepts AA+ Credit Rating from Standard & Poor's
The Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees has accepted a comprehensive ratings report from Standard & Poor's (S&P) that assigns the College an AA+ credit rating with a stable outlook. This distinction places Lake Michigan College among an elite group, as it is one of only two community colleges in Michigan to achieve this top-tier AA+ rating.In February 2025, Standard & Poor's conducted a thorough financial evaluation of Lake Michigan College and reaffirmed its general creditworthiness with the AA+
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MIKE YORE MEMORIAL CAR SHOW PART OF LOVE LOCAL WEEKEND JULY 18-20
St. Joe Today invites the community to celebrate all things Southwest Michigan during the Love Local Weekend July 18-20. The weekend kicks off with the Mike Yore Memorial Car Show on Friday, July 18 from 4:00p-8:00p in downtown St. Joe. Step back in time and enjoy over 150 vintage cars lined up along Lake Boulevard as DJ Mark Durocher spins classic hits. Cars can start parking in the event zone along Lake Boulevard at 1:00p on Friday, July 19. Participating cars need to be in place no later than 4:00p
Halee Pullins to Lead Marketing Strategy as United Federal Credit Union’s New Director of Marketing
United Federal Credit Union (United) is pleased to announce the promotion of Halee Pullins to the position of Director of Marketing. Pullins brings over seven years of experience in credit union marketing and public relations, with a strong track record of leading innovative, member-focused campaigns. “Halee has been an integral part of our marketing team, and we’re proud to see her step into this leadership role,” said Kaylee Ganus, Chief Marketing Officer at United. “Her strategic vision, deep
Three’s the Charm when Langford Lads Take the Stage at the Box Factory July 26
Whether you love bouncy jigs, Gaelic ballads or breathtaking bluegrass pickin’ you’ll enjoy all those and more when the Langford Lads take the Box Factory stage. The Lads have entertained thousands with their astonishing mash-up of Irish, bluegrass, and American folk styles. That plus a beat-the-heat cash bar will be on tap Saturday, July 26, 7-9 p.m., at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St. Reserve your seats early for this thrilling trio from Roosevelt, MI. Tickets are $15 for cabaret seating or
MCCAA recognizes LMC 56 student-athletes for individual academic excellence
The Michigan Community College Athletic Association has announced its list of student-athletes who have achieved 2024-2025 academic honors. Among them are 56 Lake Michigan College student-athletes who have earned a 3.0 or better cumulative GPA during the past year including 45 Academic All-MCCAA recipients and 11 Academic All-Conference recipients. Additionally, LMC Baseball, Softball, and Women’s Volleyball have been named MCCAA Academic Teams for 2024-2025. To achieve MCCAA Academic Team status, a MCCAA
2025 SWMI & National April Housing Market Slipped from the Robust Sales in March
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales in April 2025 slipped from the robust results in March. Sales and the average selling price declined. Only the median selling price increased above that in March.” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in April fell 20 percent to 196 from 245 in April 2024. Year-to-date, the number of houses sold was down 1 percent (744 vs. 752).” The good news for buyers
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United Federal Credit Union Named Tenth Overall on Top 100 Inspiring Workplaces in North America List
United Federal Credit Union (United) has been ranked in the top ten of the 2025 Top 100 Workplaces in North America by Inspiring Workplaces Group, in association with Employera, at an exclusive event in Chicago. In addition to securing a spot in the top ten overall rankings, United was also recognized among the top five in the large business category and received best-in-class certificates for excellence in key areas of building a people-first culture, including purpose and values, leadership, employee
Great Lakes Eye Care Welcomes Dr. Rachel McKuras to the Team
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Alex Gaytán Education Coordinator | Administrator Great Lakes Eye Care 269-428-3300 Ext. 266 Great Lakes Eye Care Welcomes Dr. Rachel McKuras to the Team FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26th, 2025 St. Joseph, MI – Great Lakes Eye Care is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Rachel McKuras, OD, to its team of dedicated eye care professionals. Dr. McKuras brings a wealth of clinical experience, academic excellence, and a heart for service to the Southwest
Lake Michigan College Online Accounting Program Ranked Top 20 in the Nation
BENTON HARBOR, MI – Lake Michigan College’s online accounting program has been ranked #19 in the nation by the Affordable Degree Guide in its 2025 rankings*, recognizing the program for its exceptional value, flexibility, and career-oriented focus. Designed for working adults, career changers, and traditional students alike, LMC’s online accounting program offers a cost-effective and convenient pathway to a high-demand profession. The curriculum is built to equip students with the practical skills and
14 Talented Artists Showcase New Techniques in Exhibit at Box Factory for the Arts
ST. JOSEPH, MI – A variety of artistic styles and themes will be on exhibit at the Box Factory for the Arts starting July 11. The public is invited to meet the artists at the Opening Reception on Friday, July 18, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Light snacks and a cash bar will be available. Featured artists are below. “Compositions of Nature” in the Williams Gallery (main level) is a group show featuring Tom and Denise Tackett, Mary Whalen and Dave Marlatt. For their shared exhibit “Compositions of Nature,”
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Honor Credit Union Announces Participation in HomeBoost Down Payment Assistance Program
BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – June 24, 2025 – Honor Credit Union is proud to announce its participation in the 2025 HomeBoost Down Payment Assistance Program, a powerful initiative designed to support first-generation, first-time homebuyers in Indiana and Michigan. As a participating financial institution, Honor Credit Union will help eligible members access crucial funds to make homeownership more achievable and affordable. The HomeBoost program, offered through FHLBank Indianapolis, provides down
Kaleidoscope Playground to Celebrate Grand Opening of New All Abilities Accessible Playground at Kiw
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Nicole Stusick kaleidoscopeplayground@gmail.com Kaleidoscope Playground to Celebrate Grand Opening of New All Abilities Accessible Playground at Kiwanis Park Public Invited to Ribbon Cutting on June 30th FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23rd, 2025 SAINT JOSEPH, MI - The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, City of Saint Joseph, Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph-Benton Harbor, and the St. Joseph Parks Foundation invite the community to the Grand Opening Celebration
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Wightman Welcomes Ladd as Municipal Services Manager
Wightman, a prominent civil engineering, architecture, and surveying firm serving communities across the Great Lakes region, is proud to announce the addition of Anthony Ladd, PE, PMP as Municipal Services Manager. In this position, Ladd will oversee Wightman’s municipal services team, partnering with communities across the region to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions for water, sewer, roadway, and stormwater systems. His leadership will support municipalities in navigating complex regulatory
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WEDNESDAY NIGHT MARKET KICKS OFF THE 2025 SEASON ON JULY 2
St. Joe Today is excited to announce the 2025 season of the Wednesday Night Market. This weekly market will be held on Wednesdays, July 2 through August 27, from 4:00p-8:00p in Court Place Plaza (across from Silver Harbor Brewing) and will feature a mix of artisans and their handcrafted goods, as well as farmers and food/beverage vendors. Additionally, the market will host live music each week from 5:30p-8:30p, courtesy of Silver Harbor Brewing Co. There are still limited vendor spots available!
Community Race with a Purpose: YMCA of Greater Michiana Hosts 14th Annual 5K/10K in St. Joseph
The YMCA of Greater Michiana invites runners, walkers, and families to join the 14th Annual Race for YMCA 5K/10K on Saturday, July 19 at 8:30 a.m., presented by Honor Credit Union. Proceeds from the race will benefit the Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA's annual campaign, which provides financial assistance for memberships and programs to local children and families in need. Participants can choose between a 5K or 10K along a scenic course that starts and finishes at the Margaret B. Upton Arboretum, featuring
LMC SEEKING MILLAGE RENEWAL AND TAX CUT ON NOVEMBER BALLOT
BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – The Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees, with two millages expiring in 2026 has decided to place a millage renewal and a tax cut proposal on the November 4, 2025 ballot. The first proposal is a renewal of the College’s operational millage of 0.665 mills that provides nearly 20% of overall funding. LMC is seeking a 20 year renewal of the levy that passed in 2006. The renewal freezes the tax rate at that level or lower until 2046. “Both of these are critical funding
June Programs Kick Off Summer at Fernwood
Along with the seasonal beauty of the gardens and natural areas, Fernwood has an exciting lineup of youth camps, programs, classes, and events this summer. The garden just wrapped up their first of three youth camp sessions. The next, called “Habitat Heroes,” is scheduled for July, followed by “Art and Mindfulness in Nature” in August. Summer day camps are generously supported by a grant from the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation. Learn more and register at
WATERFRONT HOUSE OF FRAMING AND FASHION TRANSITIONS OWNERSHIP
Waterfront House of Framing & Fashion, a cherished downtown St. Joseph destination for unique art, expert custom framing, and women’s boutique fashion, is proud to announce a change in leadership. Founder and long-time owner Valerie Byrnes has entrusted the business to local entrepreneur Corey Carolla, following the exciting news of Valerie’s recent appointment to a leadership role with the Independence Chamber of Commerce near Kansas City, MO. For the past six years, Valerie, along with her daughter Emily
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True Blue Financial Celebrate One-Year Anniversary of Benton Harbor Office with Special Ribbon Cutt
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Mikaela Owen Operations Specialist True Blue Financial 269-982-2710 mowen@trueblue.financial True Blue Financial Celebrate One-Year Anniversary of Benton Harbor Office with Special Ribbon Cutting Community Invited to June 18th Event FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 16, 2025 Benton Harbor, MI — True Blue Financial is proud to announce the one-year anniversary of its Benton Harbor location (677 West Main Street) with a celebratory ribbon cutting ceremony
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Honor Announces 16th Annual Teacher Awards
Honor Credit Union Launches 16th Annual Teacher Awards BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – JUNE 16, 2025 – Honor Credit Union has officially opened the application for its 16th Annual Teacher Awards, continuing its long-standing tradition of celebrating and supporting educators across Michigan. This year, 40 teachers will each receive a $500 Amazon digital gift card to help bring their classroom dreams to life, totaling $20,000 in awards across the state. The Teacher Awards reflect Honor Credit Union’s
City of Benton Harbor, Cornerstone Alliance, and Partners Celebrate Official Launch of Downtown Social District ?and New Redevelopment Tool
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Andrew Haan P: (269) 352-2345 ahaan@cstonealliance.org June 16, 2025 City of Benton Harbor, Cornerstone Alliance, and Partners Celebrate Official Launch of Downtown Social District and New Redevelopment Tool BENTON HARBOR, MI – June 16, 2024 – The City of Benton Harbor, in partnership with Cornerstone Alliance, Benton Harbor Arts Association, and the Downtown Development Authority, is proud to announce the official launch of the Benton Harbor Downtown Social
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
