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
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United Federal Credit Union Hires Chief Commercial Officer to Lead Business Lending and Deposit Grow
United Federal Credit Union (United) is pleased to announce the appointment of Renee Johnson as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). Johnson will join United’s Strategic Leadership Team and will oversee all aspects of the Commercial business line, including Commercial Operations, Commercial Sales, and Small Business Association (SBA) lending. Renee Johnson, Chief Commercial Officer “Commercial and Small Business Lending is an integral part of United’s growth strategy that will be positively impacted by
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Online Edition of the Whirlpool Appliance Sale Now Online Through November 27th to Benefit United Way of Southwest Michigan
With the success of October’s in-person Whirlpool Appliance Sale, United Way of Southwest Michigan and Whirlpool Corp. are coming back together to offer the public even more appliances at deeply discounted rates as part of the Online Appliance Sale. The sale is open to the public online now through November 27th at WhirlpoolApplianceSale.com, and offers highly discounted Maytag, KitchenAid and Whirlpool brand ovens, ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, washers and dryers at significant savings. All major
LMC Visual & Performing Arts Department Holding Auditions for Spring Musical
The Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department will hold open auditions for the Spring production of “School of Rock,” based on the Paramount movie by Mike White, book by Julian Fellowes, lyrics by Glenn Slater, and new music by Andrew Lloyd Webber. This production will be directed by Susan Matheny and produced by LMC Instructor of Theatre Shalico Sain. Students and community members are invited to participate in auditions set for 12-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7; 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8;
MICHIGAN WORKS! CELEBRATES SIX AWARDEES IN HONOR OF NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK
MICHIGAN WORKS! CELEBRATES SIX AWARDEES IN HONOR OF NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK BENTON HARBOR, Mich.- National Apprenticeship week 2024 is underway and Michigan Works! joined forces with local employers to celebrate apprentices that have made a lasting impact in their industry. This nationwide celebration provides Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren the opportunity to highlight how Registered Apprenticeship Programs can help address some of our nation’s most pressing workforce challenges. To
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Honor Credit Union Expands to New Saint Joseph Location
Honor Credit Union Expands to New Saint Joseph Location BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 18, 2024 – Honor Credit Union is expanding to a new Saint Joseph location to accommodate new digital upgrades and growing teams. Beginning in early 2025, about 60 employees will relocate from Honor’s Operations Center in Berrien Springs to a currently vacant space on the corner of Glenlord and Hollywood Road. These include team members who work in Honor’s Contact Center, and Video Teller Machine
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Be Healthy Berrien Receives $45,000 AEP Foundation Grant to Support Benton Harbor Healthy Corner Sto
Be Healthy Berrien Receives $45,000 AEP Foundation Grant to Support Benton Harbor Healthy Corner Store and Farmers Market The American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation has awarded Be Healthy Berrien a $45,000 grant to enhance access to nutritious, locally sourced foods in Benton Harbor through the Healthy Corner Store Initiative and the Benton Harbor Farmers Market. These initiatives aim to improve food access for local residents and foster a healthier community. Anchored by United Way of Southwest
United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Rake a Difference Event Serves Over 330 Seniors in 2024
United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Rake a Difference Event Serves Over 330 Seniors in 2024Last Thursday, November 14, teams from all over Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren county took their rakes, gloves, and rain gear to yards throughout the area to help seniors in need of yard maintenance.The 14th annual Rake a Difference Event served 336 seniors around the three county community, with 134 teams involved in the event, encompassing a total of 1,319 volunteers that lent their time and talents to those in
ST. JOE TODAY’S WINTER EVENTS KICK OFF THE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON
Getting into the holiday spirit is easy when you visit downtown St. Joseph! On Friday, November 22, kick off the holiday season with three great community events - Luminary, Window Wonderland and Countdown to New Year. Friday (November 22) evening will begin with the warm glow of hundreds of luminaries lining the streets of downtown St. Joseph from 5:00p-8:00p. Luminary, sponsored by The Boulevard Inn & Bistro, creates a great atmosphere for all ages to enjoy sales, specialty items, giveaways,
United Federal Credit Union Promotes Natalie Polaskey to Senior Relationship Development Manager in
United Federal Credit Union Promotes Natalie Polaskey to Senior Relationship Development Manager in Michigan Natalie Polaskey, Senior Relationship Development Manager ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) has promoted Natalie Polaskey to Senior Relationship Development Manager in Michigan. Polaskey is based at United’s St. Joseph branch at 2819 S. State St. “I am grateful for this opportunity to grow within United Federal Credit Union,” said Polaskey. “Most importantly, I am
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Join Krasl Art Center for an Enchanted Evening at Gnome By Night: An Artful Soiree
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jamie Balkin Director of Events 269.983.0271 x121 jamie@krasl.orgJoin Krasl Art Center for an Enchanted Evening at Gnome By Night: An Artful Soiree [St. Joseph, MICH., NOVEMBER 13, 2024] - Krasl Art Center invites you to kick off the holiday season in style with an exclusive evening of art, entertainment, and shopping at Gnome By Night: An Artful Soiree on November 22, 6 - 9 pm! This special fall fundraiser offers first access to a night filled with magic and
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Krasl Art Center to Host Gnome Sweet Gnome: A Family Fun Event on November 23
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jamie Balkin Director of Events 269.983.0271 x121 jamie@krasl.org Krasl Art Center to Host Gnome Sweet Gnome: A Family Fun Event on November 23 [St. Joseph, MICH., NOVEMBER 13, 2024] - Get ready to step into a world of whimsy and creativity at Krasl Art Center's "Gnome Sweet Gnome: A Family Fun Event!" Gather your family and friends for a delightful day filled with hands-on activities, gnome-inspired games, and magical moments on Saturday, November 23,
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Honor Credit Union Announces Winners of 2024 Annual Teacher Awards
Honor Credit Union is excited to announce the recipients of its Annual Teacher Awards for 2024, celebrating 15 years of supporting educators with a total of $40,000 awarded to 40 outstanding teachers across its 28 member center communities. Each winning teacher received a $500 digital gift card to enhance their classrooms, reflecting a $5,000 increase from 2023. Originally founded as Berrien Teachers Credit Union 90 years ago, Honor continues its mission to give back, and proudly honors the
LMC ensembles unite for annual Holiday Collage concert
LMC ensembles unite for annual Holiday Collage concert BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – The warmth and spirit of the season will fill the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall when the LMC Visual & Performing Arts Department presents its annual Holiday Collage concert at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4. The College’s complete lineup of instrumental and vocal ensembles will come together in song, accompanied by dramatic readings during this festive celebration. The evening features performances by the LMC
Makers Market Features Original Art and Crafts For Sale at Start of the Holiday Season
Makers Market Features Original Art and CraftsFor Sale at Start of the Holiday Season ST. JOSEPH, MI – The Makers Market, a modern-day interpretation of the traditional craft fair, returns to the Box Factory for the Arts as part of Small Business Saturday. The bustling, daylong market will take place Saturday, November 30, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Box Factory, 1101 Broad St. in St. Joseph, Mich. A cash bar, food and refreshments will add to the holiday cheer. The entry fee is $5. The Makers Market
Lake Michigan College, Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber seek applications for Leadership Accelerator
Lake Michigan College, Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber seek applications for Leadership Accelerator BENTON HARBOR, MICH. – Applications are now available for Southwest Michigan’s premier leadership training program. Leadership Accelerator, a collaboration between Lake Michigan College and the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce, has its’ next cohort beginning January 23, 2025. Leadership Accelerator is an intensive seven-month program designed to engage, empower, and develop the next
Honor's Holiday Donation Drop
Honor’s Holiday Donation Drop: Spreading Cheer and Support Across Michigan BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 4, 2024 - This holiday season, Honor Credit Union is proud to announce the launch of its Holiday Donation Drop, a statewide initiative aimed at supporting individuals and families in need. Thirteen of Honor's member centers throughout Michigan have partnered with local non-profits and charitable organizations to collect essential items such as toys, clothing, food, and other
Rock favorites and jazz grooves on tap during Fall LMC music ensemble concert
Rock favorites and jazz grooves on tap during Fall LMC music ensemble concert BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – The senses will be sent on a musical journey when the Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department presents the Pop/Rock and Jazz Band Concert at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20. The concert, held in the LMC Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre, brings the audience into the experience through seating on stage with the performers. Groups providing the evening’s entertainment are the LMC Rock/Pop Ensemble
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Refined Barber Company Opens in Berrien Springs
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO info@smrchamber.com 269-932-4042 Refined Barber Company Opens in Berrien Springs Ribbon Cutting & Open House Set For November 9th November 4, 2024 Berrien Springs, MI - The heart of Berrien County is set to welcome another new business as Refined Barber Company officially opens its doors on Saturday, November 9th at 11:00 a.m. at 102 St. Joseph Ave. in Berrien Springs. Owner, Megan Kerlikowske’s passion for hair,
Corewell Health earns international recognition for its use of health information and technology to improve patient outcomes; first in Michigan to receive the honor since 2018
News Release Corewell Health earns international recognition for its use of health information and technology to improve patient outcomes; first in Michigan to receive the honor since 2018 The health system is recognized as a 2024 HIMSS Davies Award recipient FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Deanna Lites deanna.lites@corewellhealth.org Grand Rapids, Southfield, Mich., October 31, 2024 – Corewell HealthTM earned a 2024 HIMSS Davies Award of Excellence – the first health
CALL FOR ARTISTS! Miniatures 2025 “Give a Little Love” fundraiser is seeking submissions
CALL FOR ARTISTS!Miniatures 2025 “Give a Little Love” fundraiser is seeking submissions ST. JOSEPH, MI – The Box Factory for the Arts’ “Give A Little Love” fundraiser challenges artists of all artistic levels to create miniature works of art for donation to the Box Factory. The “miniatures” will be exhibited and available for sale in early 2025, with proceeds going to support the Box Factory’s ongoing commitment to showcase regional art and creativity.Artwork must be a finished size of 4x6 inches,
Regional Chamber, Realtors, to Host Two-Day Housing Event with Strong Towns Founder and Best-Selling Author Chuck Marohn
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO info@smrchamber.com 269-932-4042 Regional Chamber, Realtors, to Host Two-Day Housing Event with Strong Towns Founder and Best-Selling Author Chuck Marohn Strong Towns: Escaping the House Trap is coming to Southwest Michigan on December 12th & 13th October 28, 2024 St. Joseph, MI - The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, in collaboration with the Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS®, is proud to host the “Escaping
St. JOE TODAY: HALLOWEEN FESTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF OCTOBER
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 21-31. The community is invited to visit participating locations to view the pumpkins and vote for their favorite. Votes can be cast online
Lake Michigan College Honors Dr. Sue Balmes with Professor Emeritus Title
Lake Michigan College Honors Dr. Sue Balmes with Professor Emeritus Title BENTON HARBOR, MICH. – At its October board meeting, the Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees proudly bestowed the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus upon Dr. Sue Balmes, honoring her 20 years of exceptional service, academic leadership, and unwavering commitment to student success. Dr. Balmes has made a lasting impact on the college and the broader community through her contributions to biological sciences, global
Budget Blinds Announces “Trade In/Trade Up for Child Safety” Program Following New Window Cover Safe
Budget Blinds Announces “Trade In/Trade Up for Child Safety” Program Following New Window Cover Safety Standard St. Joseph, MI - In light of a new safety standard that went into effect on June 1, 2024, Budget Blinds of South Bend Mishawaka Elkhart & St. Joseph is helping to make homes safer by launching a special promotion, “Trade In/Trade Up for Child Safety.” This initiative encourages homeowners to trade in their old, corded blinds or shades for safer, cordless options or motorization, reducing
Fernwood Botanical Garden Announces New Executive Director
Fernwood announces the hiring of Mary Krinock as its new executive director, who will join the staff on November 11, 2024. Originally from Michigan, Krinock comes to Fernwood with a wealth of experience and knowledge in arts and cultural institutions and the nonprofit sector. Her most recent role was Chief of Staff for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Before that, Krinock held senior leadership positions at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. In 2011, she became the
2024 SWMI & National Housing Market Sales Drop from August Sales, Selling Prices Continue to Set Re
“At the end of the peak selling season of 2024, house sales dropped 23 percent in September from August (255 vs. 330). August was the record month for the year in sales. Selling prices in September over the last nine years continued to rise and set records in the year-over-year comparison that reaches back to 2006,” stated Alan Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS®, Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in September decreased 2 percent (four
Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance Announces Annual Meeting Highlighting Achievements a
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Nancy Kiernan CGA Director 269-285-2152 nkiernan@bridgmancga.org Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance Announces Annual Meeting Highlighting Achievements and Future Goals October 28, 2024 Bridgman, Michigan – The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance (Greater Bridgman CGA) is excited to share details on their 2024 Annual Meeting, to be held on Thursday, November 14th at Haymarket Taproom, with doors opening at 5:00 p.m. and the
Veteran Makers Market at Sticky Spoons Jams
Veteran Makers Market at Sticky Spoons Jams On Sunday, November 10, from 10am to 3pm, Sticky Spoons Jam is proud to host its Veteran Makers Market, featuring 10 small veteran-owned businesses. The veteran makers will be displaying and selling their work, including macrame, soap, woodwork, alpaca yarn and more. Sticky Spoons jams and jellies will also be available for purchase. Each guest will receive a raffle ticket for every veteran maker they support. Aiye Akhigbe, the founder and owner of
Honor Credit Union Celebrates CU Kind Day with Over 450 Volunteers Across Michigan
BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – OCTOBER 24, 2024 – Honor Credit Union is proud to announce its participation in CU Kind Day, an initiative organized by the Michigan Credit Union League in collaboration with the Michigan Credit Union Foundation. This nationwide day of kindness showcases the credit union difference through acts of service. On October 14th, over 450 dedicated Honor team members came together to volunteer their time across six regions, supporting over 50 local organizations. From beach
LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE NAMED ONE OF THE TOP COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN UNITED STATES
LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE NAMED ONE OF THE TOP COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN UNITED STATES BENTON HARBOR, MICH. – Lake Michigan College has earned national recognition as one of the top community colleges in the US and the best in Michigan, according to Smart Asset’s 2024 Best Community Colleges in the U.S study[1]. This recognition highlights LMC’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, affordability, and its positive impact on the community. Smart Asset, a leading financial technology company,
Fernwood to Host Annual Holiday Market on November 2, 10 am - 4 pm
Browse an eclectic 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 selections available in the cafe from 9 am - 4 pm. Start holiday shopping early
Abbie Thomas & The Crazy Hearts Perform at the Box Factory on Nov. 16
Abbie Thomas & The Crazy Hearts Perform at the Box Factory on Nov. 16 ST. JOSEPH, MI – Award-winning musical artists Abbie Thomas & The Crazy Hearts are bringing their popular, high-energy show to a local stage. They will perform on Saturday, November 16, 7 to 9 p.m., at the Box Factory for the Arts. Fresh off of her 2023 JMA Artist of the Year award at The Grand Ole Opry, Abbie Thomas is a rising singer/songwriter who is gaining international attention for live performances, lyricism and visual content.
Seeing Double at the Box Factory’s Annual Member Show
Seeing Double at the Box Factory’s Annual Member ShowThe public is invited to opening reception on Nov. 8, followed by concert ST. JOSEPH, MI – The Box Factory for the Art’s Member Show showcases original works by over 50 regional artists, all of whom 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. 8,
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CITY OF BRIDGMAN AWARDED $158,000 STATE GRANT FOR BRIDGMAN SIDEYARD PROJECT
CITY OF BRIDGMAN AWARDED $158,000 STATE GRANT FOR BRIDGMAN SIDEYARD PROJECT Bridgman, MI — October 22, 2024 — The City of Bridgman is excited to announce it has been selected as one of 27 communities across Michigan to receive funding from the Michigan Shared Streets and Spaces Grant (SSSG) Program. Governor Gretchen Whitmer awarded a total of $6.5 million to municipalities and transit agencies, with Bridgman receiving $158,000 to enhance public spaces and improve mobility infrastructure. This one-time
Martin Luther King III to speak at MLK monuments unveiling and celebration November 19
Martin Luther King III to speak at MLK monuments unveiling and celebration November 19 Unified Civic Monuments ProjectMedia contact: info@unifiedmonuments.org, 269.861.6533 Benton Harbor, Mich. - The Unified Civic Monuments Project announces that Martin Luther King III, the eldest son of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, will visit the Twin Cities community as the honored guest and speaker at a celebration of the double unveiling of monuments dedicated to his father. On Tuesday,
