Lake Michigan College Names Dr. Kim Hodges Dean of Health Sciences
Lake Michigan College (LMC) is pleased to announce that Dr. Kim Hodges, DNP, RN, NE-BC, NPD-BC, has joined the College as Dean of Health Sciences. Hodges brings academic leadership, clinical practice, nursing professional development, and healthcare administration experience to LMC. She joins the College from Indiana University (IU), where she most recently served as Assistant Dean in the School of Nursing. Before that, she served as Clinical Assistant Professor in the IU Department of Community and
DOWNTOWN SPOOKTACULAR RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN ST. JOE ON OCTOBER 17
Downtown Spooktacular returns to Downtown St. Joe on Saturday, October 17, from 11a-4p. This Halloween-themed event hosts a variety of activities in Lake Bluff Park, Whirlpool Centennial Park and the North Pier Lighthouse at Tiscornia Park. Downtown Spooktacular activities include: Spooktacular Market | 11a-4p | Lake Bluff ParkOutdoor Halloween-themed Artisan Market! Spooky Lighthouse Tours | 11a-4p | Tiscornia ParkEnjoy a free day at the St. Joe Lighthouse! Lighthouse volunteers will share the rich
City of Benton Harbor Debuts Its Year in Review Magazine
The City of Benton Harbor has released Review: A Year in Review, a magazine reflecting on the City’s progress, projects, services, partnerships, and investments over the past year. Created as a resource for residents and community partners, the magazine provides an overview of the work taking place throughout Benton Harbor and the priorities guiding the City’s path forward. “Review: A Year in Review was created to reflect on the progress made over the past year and to share how the City has continued
Lakeshore Excellence Foundation Announces $750,000 in Major Projects for Lakeshore Public Schools
The Lakeshore Excellence Foundation (LEF) and Lakeshore Public Schools Superintendent Greg Eding announced plans for $750,000 in major projects to expand robotics opportunities, strengthen teaching, launch inclusive athletics and improve classroom emergency preparedness across the district. Eding and LEF Chairman J.C. Anderson shared the four-project investment Tuesday evening during the foundation’s Lancer Leader celebration at Solarium by Watermark. The reception honored current and new Lancer Leaders,
Local Horror Film “Whispers” Returns to The Loading Dock for Special Screenings and Filmmaker Q&A
A piece of Buchanan’s local filmmaking history is coming back to town this October when Whispers, a 2008 horror film filmed locally in Buchanan, is presented in two special screenings at The Loading Dock, 325 E. Front St., Suite 118, Buchanan, MI. The screenings will take place Sunday, October 25 and Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the movie beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15. Following each screening, audiences will have the opportunity to hear directly from the people who
For Immediate Release: Great Lakes Eye Care Welcomes Dr. MacGregor Hall, MD to the Team
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Alex Gaytán Practice Development Coordinator | Administrator agaytan@greateyecare.com 269-428-3300 Ext. 266 Great Lakes Eye Care Welcomes Dr. MacGregor Hall, MD to the Team Joins today, October 5th October 5th, 2026 SAINT JOSEPH, MI – Dr. MacGregor Hall is a fellowship-trained cornea, cataract, and refractive surgeon whose clinical interests include corneal transplantation, refractive cataract surgery with specialty lens implants, vision correction
$4M Rural Development Fund grant opportunity available to strengthen rural communities
--- PRESS RELEASE --- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:Friday, Oct. 2, 2026MEDIA CONTACT: Chelsea Wuth $4M Rural Development Fund grant opportunity available to strengthen rural communities Rural communities may submit letters of intent through Nov. 2 LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP) is launching the latest round of the Rural Development Fund grant with $4 million available to support projects that strengthen rural communities, infrastructure, workforce and economic
Lake Michigan College’s Red Hawk Jazz Collective to Perform Oct. 21
An evening of jazz standards will fill the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, when the LMC music program presents the Red Hawk Jazz Collective under the direction of LMC adjunct faculty member Danny Lopez. This immersive concert experience seats the audience on the Jenkins Theatre stage with the performers. Tickets are not required for this free general admission event. Among the planned selections are “Computer” composed and arranged by Bob Mintzer, “Fun Time”
Buchanan Celebrates Community Leaders at Annual Meeting
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce jhansen@smrchamber.com BUCHANAN CELEBRATES COMMUNITY LEADERS AT ANNUAL MEETING Dennis Mori, Michigan Gateway Community Foundation and Tracy Dippo honored for their service to the Buchanan area FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 5th, 2026 BUCHANAN, MI — Business owners, community partners, and local leaders gathered Thursday, Oct. 1, at The Loading Dock in downtown Buchanan for the Buchanan Area
Michigan Secretary of State Mobile Office Coming to Lake Michigan College on October 15
The Michigan Secretary of State Mobile Office will visit Lake Michigan College on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Napier Avenue Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave., Benton Harbor. The visit is open to the community. The visit's primary goal is to make voter registration easy and accessible ahead of the November 3 general election. Residents can register to vote for the first time or update the address on an existing registration on-site. The Mobile Office brings many services normally
Upcoming Extended Education Classes at Lake Michigan College
Lake Michigan College is offering several non-credit Extended Education courses designed for career advancement and skill building. Courses are offered at the Todd Center on LMC's Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave. Registration is required for all classes, and space is limited. Professionalism & Soft Skills Bootcamp Monday, Oct. 12 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. | Registration deadline: Oct. 8Monday, Dec. 7 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. | Registration deadline: Dec. 3$185 chamber members, $225 non-membersThis one-day
80th Anniversary Series - Sam Monte: From Benton Harbor Junior College to a Lifetime of Success
During Lake Michigan College’s year-long 80th Anniversary celebration, the College is featuring stories about some of the people who have been part of that history, and who, in the process, have been shaped by their connection to Lake Michigan College (1964 to present), and its predecessors Benton Harbor Junior College (1946-1954) and Community College and Technical Institute (1954-1964). Doors Opened: From Benton Harbor Junior College to a Lifetime of SuccessSam Monte remembers how Benton Harbor Junior
NEW FOOD AND DRINK OPTIONS OPEN AT SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Officials gathered at South Bend International Airport (SBN) today for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of new food and drink options, both pre- and post-security. Within the last month, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s, and The Lauber Overlook opened post-security offering travelers more options in addition to the existing food and drink offerings. Dunkin’ serves up signature coffees and refreshers along with donuts, pastries, and savory bites like avocado toast, snackin’ bacon, and ham and swiss
Wine & Roses Vocal Concert to feature LMC choral groups Oct. 14
Romantic ballads and familiar standards will fill the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, when the LMC music program presents the Wine & Roses Vocal Concert. This free event will feature two student choral ensembles, Vox LMC and LMC Vocal Chamber, under the direction of LMC choral music faculty member Rebecca Derbas-Selvidge.This immersive concert experience seats the audience on the Jenkins Theatre stage with the performers. A cash bar featuring Lake Michigan
LMC students earn spots on Summer President’s, Dean’s Lists
Lake Michigan College has announced the names of students recognized for academic achievement during the 2026 Summer term.There were 17 students named to the President’s List, achieving a 4.0 GPA at full-time status. The Dean’s List, meanwhile, includes 18 full-time students and 155 part-time students who achieved a 3.5 GPA or higher.President’s ListBangorCarter HullBenton HarborMichael DanneffelJalyn SnyderBerrien SpringsHannah JudsonJesse QueenDestiny RussellDecaturAnthony ParrisDowagiacBen
Dr. Melinda M. Gruber Joins Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees
Lake Michigan College is pleased to announce that Dr. Melinda M. Gruber joined its Board of Trustees on September 22, 2026. Dr. Gruber was appointed to the seat following the resignation of Brian Dissette of South Haven who stepped down in August. Dr. Gruber is President of the Corewell Health Foundation, Southwest Michigan, where she leads philanthropic strategy and impact for the region. She previously served as Vice President of the Medical Group and Rehabilitation Services at Corewell Health, South
Lake Michigan College invites area employers to Future Fair 2026
Lake Michigan College invites area employers to connect with students and job seekers from the community at Future Fair 2026: Taking Flight. The career fair will take place on the LMC Benton Harbor Campus on Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Employers can recruit candidates for open positions. Even if they aren't currently hiring, businesses are encouraged to reserve a table and connect with attendees who may be strong candidates for future openings. This is an opportunity for employers to
BUCHANAN HARVEST FEST & CHILI WALK RETURNS OCTOBER 3, REVIVING A BELOVED BUCHANAN TRADITION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media & Chili Walk Contact: Allison Hayes Community Relations Manager Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce (269) 695-3291 ahayes@smrchamber.comBUCHANAN HARVEST FEST & CHILI WALK RETURNS OCTOBER 3, REVIVING A BELOVED BUCHANAN TRADITION The Daylong Downtown Celebration Will Feature Chili Walk, Live Music, Kids Activities, Shopping, Food & More FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 21st, 2026 BUCHANAN, Mich. — The Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) invites residents and
Lake Michigan College Invites the Community to Celebrate Its 80th Anniversary and Meet New President Dr. Ken Flowers
Lake Michigan College (LMC) invites members of the community to a special celebration marking the College's 80th anniversary and welcoming its new president, Dr. Ken Flowers.The free event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Welch Center on LMC's Benton Harbor campus, 2774 E. Empire Ave., Benton Harbor, MI 49022. Brief remarks will be made at 6:15 p.m. Please RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/LMC80th.Guests will have the opportunity to meet and speak with Dr. Flowers, connect
Acclaimed Authors Gillian Flynn and Angeline Boulley Announced As Guest Speakers for The Loading Dock Literary Fest
Two-Day March Festival In Buchanan Will Bring Nationally-Celebrated Authors Together With Readers for Books, Conversation, Immersive Experiences, and Family Activities Buchanan, MI – September 2026 – The Loading Dock Literary Fest has officially secured two acclaimed best-selling authors as featured guest speakers for its inaugural festival, taking place March 5-6, 2027, at The Loading Dock in downtown Buchanan, Michigan. Gillian Flynn, internationally best-selling author of Gone Girl,
United Way of Southwest Michigan Sets $3.5 Million Goal as Pacesetters Kick Off Campaign with 47% Increase
United Way of Southwest Michigan has set its annual community campaign goal at $3.5 million. Five local Pacesetter organizations have already given the effort a strong start, raising more than $74,600 together. That's a 47% increase over what those same organizations raised last year. The goal reflects what United Way is hearing from nonprofits across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Funding requests are coming in at a high rate, and many local agencies have lost state and federal funding and are
Join the fun at the Box Factory for the Arts on October 16 for the 2026 Fall ArtJam: “What’s In The Box?”
The public is invited to theFall ArtJam: “What’s In The Box?” on Friday, October 16, 6-8PM, at the Box Factory for the Arts,1101 Broad St. Step inside the Box Factory and join the fun! Grab a “passport” when you enter, and collect stamps from a variety of Make & Take Art Stations for a chance to win a prize at the end of the night! These stations, manned by professional artists with a laissez-faire approach, will include collage, textiles, rock painting, drawing, and more!Alongside the Make & Take
Wightman’s Joel East Appointed as Kalamazoo County Deputy County Surveyor
Wightman is proud to announce that Joel East, Professional Land Surveyor (P.S.) and Survey Manager in the firm’s Kalamazoo office, was sworn in as Deputy County Surveyor for Kalamazoo County on Tuesday, Sept. 1. As Deputy County Surveyor, East will provide continuity for the County Surveyor’s office when County Surveyor Gary Hahn, who is also a Wightman employee, is not available. East’s professional experience and knowledge of surveying will help ensure that important county surveying responsibilities
LMC Music and Theater programs announce fall semester performances
The Lake Michigan College Music and Theater programs have announced the schedule of student performances for the Fall 2026 semester. All events will be held in the LMC Mendel Center on the Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave. Oct. 14 Wine & Roses Vocal Concert, Jenkins Theatre, 7 p.m.Oct. 21 Jazz Band Concert, Jenkins Theatre, 7 p.m.Oct. 23 Student Music Recital, Deckmann Studio, noonOct. 29 River and Roots Choir Concert featuring the
Honor Credit Union Welcomes Chris Swartz as Hartford Branch Manager
Honor Credit Union Welcomes Chris Swartz as Hartford Branch Manager BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – September 15, 2026 – Honor Credit Union is pleased to announce Chris Swartz as its new branch manager in Hartford. Swartz brings a diverse background to his new role. His professional experience includes management, sales, marketing, and frontline member service positions, providing him with a well-rounded understanding of how to support both employees and members. He also proudly served six years in
2026 SWMI & National July Housing Market Sales Up at Lower Selling Prices
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales in July 2026 were down 1 percent from June but were 13 percent higher than last year in July. Homebuyers faced the highest mortgage rate for the year so far. The good news for homebuyers was that selling prices were lower in July than in June. The average selling price was also lower than in July 2025,” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in July
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Lazer Graphics is Celebrating 50 Years in Business!
St. Joseph – 1/5/2026 – Lazer Graphics, a leader in custom apparel and promotions, is proud to announce their 50th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in their history of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to their customers and community. Founded in 1976 by Dennis and Debbie Barker in Stevensville, Lazer Graphics began as a small operation with a bold vision to provide an artistic and reliable resource for businesses, teams, schools, and more to go to for their decorated apparel
Regional Chamber Honors and Celebrates the 2025 HYPE Winners
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director jhansen@smrchamber.com 269-932-4605 Regional Chamber Honors and Celebrates the 2025 HYPE Winners November 20, 2025 Stevensville, MI – Southwest Michigan’s brightest entrepreneurial talent gathered at the Watermark Solarium last night for the second annual HYPE – Highlighting Young Professional Excellence. Hosted by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber in partnership with the Emerge Innovation Hub, this dynamic event
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
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
