SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SEES RECORD NUMBER OF PASSENGERS TAKE OFF IN MARCH
For the first time ever, South Bend International Airport (SBN) had more than 50,000 people depart on flights in a single month. March 2025 enplanements – an industry metric indicating the number of people boarding an airplane from a specific airport – increased 24.6% year-over-year from 40,612 to 50,602. At the end of the first quarter, SBN enplanements reached 134,624, a 27.7% increase over the first quarter of 2024. Historically, in the aviation industry, January and February are the slowest months of
GhostLight Theatre announces auditions for Young Apprentice Training Program (YAP) on May 17 & 18 for their July production of The Wolves – a play by Sarah DeLappe
The Ghostlight Theatre is excited to announce the return of their Young Apprentice Training Program (YAP) for the Summer of 2025, to include any/all students aged 13-19. This season the program continues to grow and develop with the feature performance, The Wolves – a play by Sara DeLappe. Auditions for the YAP will be held Saturday and Sunday, May 17th & 18th from 4-6pm at The GhostLight Theatre – 101 Hinkley Street, Benton Harbor. Auditioners need only attend one day of auditions but should plan on
United Federal Credit Union Promotes Barbara Berken as Director of Enterprise Projects & Process Excellence
United Federal Credit Union Promotes Barbara Berken as Director of Enterprise Projects & Process Excellence ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) is pleased to announce the promotion of Barbara Berken to the position of Director of Enterprise Projects & Process Excellence. Berken brings over two decades of experience in credit union operations, project management, and process improvement to her new role at United. Barbara Berken, Director of Enterprise Projects & Process
Lake Michigan College inducts new honor society members
Lake Michigan College recently inducted 55 students into the Mu Nu chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and 41 students into the National Society of Leadership and Success. PTK is the international community college honor society which focuses on service, scholarship, leadership, and fellowship. PTK members participate in community service projects, leadership opportunities, social events, and monthly meetings. Membership is by invitation to students who have completed at least 12 credits and have a cumulative GPA of
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MEMORIAL DAY PARADE RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN ST. JOSEPH ON FRIDAY, MAY 23
St. Joe Today invites the community to join them for the 2025 Memorial Day Parade on Friday, May 23 in downtown St. Joseph. This event is sponsored by Lest We Forget. This yearly tradition honors those who have served and sacrificed their lives in service of our country. The parade starts at 12:00p and travels along Lake Boulevard from Park Street to Port Street in downtown St. Joseph. Immediately following the parade, there will be a short memorial ceremony held at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell. St.
Kimmy Cramer Named Spirit of Nursing Award Recipient by Lake Michigan College
Lake Michigan College is proud to announce that Kimberly “Kimmy” Cramer, who will receive her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing on May 4, has been named the Spring 2025 recipient of the Spirit of Nursing award, one of the highest honors bestowed upon a graduating nursing student. The Spirit of Nursing award is presented each semester to the graduate who best exemplifies the philosophy and core values of the LMC Nursing Program. The award recognizes not only academic success, but also the personal
United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Returns $1.3 Million in Tax Refunds to the Community
United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, commonly known as VITA (pronounced VYE-tuh), is excited to announce the program’s volunteers assisted over 1,100 clients across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties with tax preparation & filing. The result is over $1.3 Million in tax refunds returned to Southwest Michigan residents through this vital program.“This program is so integral to the ALICE population,” stated Anna Murphy, President & CEO of United Way of Southwest
Swinging into Action – 38th Annual Softball Fundraiser to Support The Center for Growth and Independence
The Center for Growth and Independence kicks off their 38th Annual Softball Fundraiser, taking place July 25th and 26th at Plangger’s Park in Benton Harbor, MI. This event, sponsored by Dominion Chevrolet, brings the community together for a weekend of friendly competition, team building, and a positive impact for the community’s most vulnerable populations. This community event takes one of America’s favorite games, baseball, and adds a creative twist: bribe the ump to put the other team at a disadvantage!
SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO CONDUCT ANNUAL LIVE FIRE TRAINING MONDAY, MAY 5
The St. Joseph County Airport Authority (SJCAA) Department of Public Safety will be conducting annual fire training required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with live burns on Monday, May 5, 2025 from approximately 8:00 a.m. until Noon at the live fire training facility on the northwest corner of the airfield at South Bend International Airport (SBN). The training will not impact flight operations.The fire safety training is mandated by the FAA under FAR Part 139 for any entity specializing in
Former Stevensville Post Office to Be Redeveloped as Creative Agency Headquarters
The Village of Stevensville has approved a Commercial Redevelopment Act (CRA) tax abatement supporting the redevelopment of a historic downtown property. The former U.S. Post Office at 2797 Kimmel Street, a mid-century building constructed in 1963, will be transformed into the new headquarters of Applied arts, a creative services agency serving clients nationwide. Vacant since 2022 and most recently home to retailer Black Arsenal, the 3,300-square-foot facility will undergo a comprehensive renovation
Lake Michigan College announces 2025 nominees for WAVE Awards honoring High School Musical Theatre
Lake Michigan College announces nominees for WAVE Awards honoring High School Musical TheatreBENTON HARBOR, Mich. – The Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department has announced the nominees for its 2024-2025 WAVE Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre.Loosely designed after Broadway's famed Tony Awards, the WAVE Awards recognizes, encourages, and promotes high school theater. Ten adjudicators evaluated 12 high schools and about 710 students who participated in high school
Lake Michigan College to award 454 degrees and certificates at May 4 commencement ceremonies
Lake Michigan College will host its 78th annual commencement ceremonies at 10 a.m. (Arts & Sciences and General Studies) and 1 p.m. (Career & Workforce and Health Sciences) Sunday, May 4, at Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre on the Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave.A total of 414 students will receive 403 degrees and certificates from 49 areas of study.Presenters include LMC Board of Trustees Chair Joan Smith, LMC Board of Trustees member John Grover, LMC President Dr. Trevor A.
DR. ELAINE FOSTER NAMED LAKESHORE’S 2025 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI
Chad Deja, President of the Lakeshore Alumni Association, announced Dr. Elaine Foster as the recipient of the coveted Lakeshore Distinguished Alumni Award for 2025. Dr. Foster is a 1978 graduate of Lakeshore and has distinguished herself in the field of nursing. Dr. Foster began her professional nursing career at South Bend Memorial Hospital upon graduating from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1982. Dr. Foster also earned a Master of Science in Nursing and a Ph.D. in
2025 SWMI & National February Housing Market Picked up 49 Percent Over February
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales in March 2025 picked up from a sluggish February performance and ended with an explosive finish. All figures increased by double digits, except for sales year-to-date. Sales increased 49 percent over that in February with selling prices increasing 1-3 percent higher in March. ,” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in March jumped 12 percent to 226 from
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Honor Credit Union Announces Free Community Shred Day in South Haven
Honor Credit Union, in partnership with Data Guardian, is pleased to host a Free Community Shred Day in South Haven, MI. The event will take place at Honor's South Haven location on May 10, from 9:00 AM-11:00 AM. This event is one of 10 Shred Days spanning April through September and provides a convenient, secure way for community members to dispose of sensitive documents. Honor’s Community Shred Days not only help protect against identity theft but also contribute to a greener future by ensuring
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United Federal Credit Union Receives Recognition from United Way of Southwest Michigan and University of Nevada, Reno
United Federal Credit Union (United) is pleased to announce that it has been recognized by two esteemed organizations within the same week for its outstanding contributions to the community and higher education. Pictured: Jodie Kitchell2025 United Way of Southwest Michigan Annual Celebration On Thursday, April 24, United was awarded the Whirlpool Community Commitment Award by United Way of Southwest Michigan. This prestigious award, named after Whirlpool for its significant fundraising efforts,
Nursing Educational Leader Named Lakeshore's 2025 Distinguished Alumni
DR. ELAINE FOSTER NAMED LAKESHORE’S 2025 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI STEVENSVILLE, Michigan, April 30, 2025 - Chad Deja, President of the Lakeshore Alumni Association, announced Dr. Elaine Foster as the recipient of the coveted Lakeshore Distinguished Alumni Award for 2025. Dr. Foster is a 1978 graduate of Lakeshore and has distinguished herself in the field of nursing. Dr. Foster began her professional nursing career at South Bend Memorial Hospital upon graduating from the University of Michigan with a
Four students to speak at 78th Lake Michigan College Commencement Ceremonies
Hailey Marbut, Renato Recillas, Ashley Ledin, and Dajah Parker have been selected as student speakers for Lake Michigan College's 78th annual commencement ceremonies, which will be held at 10 a.m. (Arts & Sciences and General Studies) and 1 p.m. (Career & Workforce and Health Sciences) on Sunday, May 4, at Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre on the Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave.Student speakers are nominated by their peers, LMC faculty, and staff based on academic excellence,
United Way of Southwest Michigan's Annual Celebration Held as a Tribute to People and Their Impact In Local Communities
Nearly 300 donors, volunteers, and community partners filled Lake Michigan College’s Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall on Thursday, April 24, for United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Annual Celebration, an evening that looked back on 2024 and honored the people who made last year’s impact possible. President & CEO Anna Murphy opened the program by reminding guests that the night was really about them and their willingness to “live united” for neighbors across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren
Hungerford and Bridgman High School Team Up to Showcase Student Art
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Heather Halligan Hungerford Nichols CPAs + Advisors hhalligan@hungerfordnichols.com www.hungerford.com (616) 949-3200 Hungerford and Bridgman High School Team Up to Showcase Student Art St. Joseph, Mich., April 24, 2025 – Hungerford, a locally owned leader in the accounting, technology and wealth management industries, has once again partnered with Bridgman High School for its annual student art collaboration, now in its fifth year. This creative
Sturgis Bank Promotes Berrien County Retail Managers
Sturgis Bank is pleased to announce several promotions for team members headquartered in Berrien County. Nicholas Barber has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, Retail Sales Manager for the Sturgis Bank system. He joined Sturgis Bank in October 2020 as Branch Manager for the St. Joseph offices and was appointed manager of all Berrien County offices when the bank opened their Niles branch in 2022. Nicholas has over ten years experience in financial services management. He serves on the “NextGen”
Berrien Springs Pickle Festival Announces 5th Anniversary on July 4
A Dill-ightful Day and Pre-Festival Activities Planned for 2025 The Village of Berrien Springs, the Berrien County Historical Association (BCHA), and the Berrien Springs Community Library are excited to share planning is underway for the festival's 5th Anniversary! What started while having a “what if” conversation at the end of 2020 quickly turned into the return of a beloved celebration on July 4th, 2021. Originally, the committee hoped maybe a few hundred people would join them for a day of
Lake Michigan College students visit state capitol for Community College Day
Four students from Lake Michigan College hit the legislative halls in Lansing on April 17 to advocate for community college students. The four students on the LMC team were Caia Bowman, Julia Pepple, Jonathon Orlando, and Renato Recillas. They were joined by LMC Provost Dr. Ken Flowers, Vice President of Enrollment, Marketing, and Government Relations Al Pscholka, Jeremy Burleson, Associate Dean, South Haven campus, along with Sarah Thomas of LMC advising and the LMC Mascot Rocky Red Hawk. Bowman, 19, of
MDARD Opens Underserved, Value-Added, and Regional Food Systems Grant Opportunity
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is now accepting grant proposals for the latest round of the Underserved, Value-Added, and Regional Food Systems Grant. Grant proposals must be received by 5 p.m. EST on June 11, 2025. Thanks to continued investments through Governor Whitmer's bipartisan budget, these grant funds support traditionally underserved businesses, cultivate value-added agricultural processing and strengthen area supply chains and regional food systems. Last
United Names Vice President of Production Support
United Federal Credit Union (United) has appointed Andrea Ausra as the Vice President of Production Support. Ausra brings over 24 years of extensive experience in mortgage loan operations, underwriting, and management to her new role at United. "We are thrilled to welcome Andrea Ausra to our leadership team," said James Knight, United Chief Sales & Service Officer. "Her extensive experience and proven track record in mortgage loan operations and underwriting will be instrumental in driving our production
Lake Michigan Youth Orchestra to Premiere New Work at Spring Concert
This Sunday, April 27, the Lake Michigan Youth Orchestra (LMYO) will take the stage at the Howard Performing Arts Center on the campus of Andrews University for its much-anticipated Spring Concert. The performance begins at 3:00 p.m. and will showcase a dynamic blend of familiar favorites and fresh new works—including the world premiere of Draco Somnolentus, an original composition written especially for the orchestra by local composer and LMYO parent Kris Zook. The program includes beloved pieces such as
MAAC ART COMPETITION AND AWARDS TO BE PRESENTED AT BOX FACTORY RECEPTION ON MAY 16
The Michiana Annual Art Competition—or MAAC for short—showcases works by over 120 of the finest artists in the region. The popular, multimedia exhibit, “MAAC in the Box,” is held at the Box Factory for the Arts with support from members, area businesses and corporate sponsors. Artists and the general public are invited to the MAAC Opening Reception on Friday, May 16, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Refreshments and a cash bar will be available.The MAAC is a juried, fine art exhibition designed to recognize and reward
LMC Students Gain Real World Experience at Illinois Government Simulation
Four Lake Michigan College students became the first Michigan delegation to participate in the prestigious Model Illinois Government (MIG) simulation in Springfield, Illinois. This premier intercollegiate event brought together 162 students from 16 colleges and universities for an immersive experience in state government operations. Greer Armstrong, Jadyn Haynes, Julia Pepple, and Renato Recillas represented LMC under the guidance of political science instructor Dr. Tiffany Bohm. During the four-day
ATTITUDES SALON HAS REBRANDED
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Donna Hill Owner attitudessalon@sbcglobal.net 269-428-0424ATTITUDES SALON HAS REBRANDED Remodel of Attitudes Salon is complete and their website is live! April 15, 2025 You may have heard the news already, but in case you haven't, we are SO pumped to announce that our salon rebrand is complete! We’ve kicked off the spring with an interior up-level of our salon space, and now have completed the shift in our visual brand identity for Attitudes Salon with a new
Cornerstone Alliance Welcomes Greg King ?as Director of Economic Development
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Christina Frank P: (269) 757-0291 cfrank@cstonealliance.org April 15, 2025 Cornerstone Alliance Welcomes Greg King as Director of Economic Development Benton Harbor, MI – April 15, 2025 – Cornerstone Alliance, the lead economic development organization for Berrien County, Michigan, proudly welcomes Greg King, MPA as its Director of Economic Development. King joins the organization’s Economic Development Department, which is focused on business attraction,
SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND LOCAL OFFICIALS TO CUT RIBBON ON CONSOLIDATED QUICK TURNAROUND FACILITY
South Bend International Airport (SBN) will unveil its $7.3 million Consolidated Quick Turnaround (QTA) Facility on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. with a celebratory ribbon cutting. The new QTA allows SBN’s rental car operators to perform back of house services in a consolidated, modern facility in proximity to the rental car parking lot.With automated car washes, four detail bays, four service bays, and a 10,000-gallon fuel farm, the QTA provides Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and National with
United Way of Southwest Michigan's ROCK THE BOAT Presented By Honor Credit Union is Back July 17, 2025
United Way of Southwest Michigan’s annual Rock The Boat cardboard boat races held in the St. Joseph River Channel is coming back Thursday, July 17, 2025 presented by Honor Credit Union. The event serves as one of the signature fundraising events for the organization, hosted by the Inn at Harbor Shores in St. Joseph. This unique event, which features life-size boats made entirely of cardboard, will be raced in heats in the river channel for spectators to see in-person and online
A Tribute to Louis Armstrong and More!
The Jim Cooper Trio, featuring Jim Cooper, Jim Allen and Kenny Cooper will pay tribute to Louis Armstrong at a special jazz concert on Saturday, April 12 at 7 p.m.Special cabaret seating will be available at $15 per person and general admission at $12 per person. Walk-in tickets are $15. Free admission for children 12 and under. Reserve your seating for this special tribute athttps://ticketstripe.com/jim-cooper-trio-tribute.Chicago Trumpeter Kenny Cooper will be featured for the tribute concert. He says
Southwest Michigan Dermatology Welcomes Dr. Brittany Valk, D.O
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jennifer Pugh, RMA Aesthetics & Marketing Coordinator jpugh@swmderm.com 269-321-SKIN (7546) ext. 450Southwest Michigan Dermatology Welcomes Dr. Brittany Valk, D.O Dr. Valk will begin seeing patients Monday, May 19, 2025 April 10, 2025 St Joseph, Michigan – Southwest Michigan Dermatology, a renown regional dermatology practice, is excited to announce Dr. Brittany Valk, D.O. is joining its team of specialists in their St. Joseph office location. As the
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
