MICHIGAN WORKS! ADULT EDUCATION TEAM SETS NEW GRADUATION RECORD THROUGH BERRIEN COUNTY JAIL PARTNERS
The Michigan Works! Adult Education team celebrated a record-breaking year Tuesday night, recognizing 52 graduates who earned their GEDs- the highest number of graduates in the program’s history. The milestone follows the launch of a new partnership with the Berrien County Jail, created to help adult learners work toward earning their GED before reentering the community. “We hit an all-time high this year, watching 52 graduates earn their GED,” said Mandi Somers, Adult Education Manager at Michigan
Lake Michigan College's Sean Newmiller Named Inaugural First-Year Success Fellow by Strong Start to Finish
Sean Newmiller, Chair of the English, Communication, and World Languages Department, has been named one of six inaugural First-Year Success Fellows by Strong Start to Finish, a national network dedicated to ensuring students complete gateway math and English in their first year of college and an initiative of the Education Commission of the States. Newmiller was selected for his accomplishments in advancing evidence-based reforms that improve student outcomes. At Lake Michigan College, he led his
AWARD WINNERS OF THE MICHIANA ANNUAL ART COMPETITION AT THE BOX FACTORY FOR THE ARTS
Award winners have been announced for the 2026 Michiana Annual Art Competition (MAAC), now on display at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., until July 5. The MAAC in the Box is a juried, fine art competition designed to recognize and reward the excellence of artists in southwestern Michigan and Northwest Indiana. More than 150 original works by 120 artists were selected for the exhibit. Eight category awards, including painting (oil, acrylic, water-based); drawing; photography; fiber
Honor Credit Union Accepting Applications to Award $20,000 to Michigan Teachers for the 17th Year
Honor Credit Union Accepting Applications to Award $20,000 to Michigan Teachers for the 17th Year BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – JUNE 2, 2026 – Honor Credit Union has officially opened applications for its 17th 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. Honor’s
Lake Michigan College's Dr. Scott L. Pratt Named to OnCon Icon Top 100 Technology Professionals
Dr. Scott L. Pratt, Chief Information Officer at Lake Michigan College (LMC), has been named one of the OnCon Icon Top 100 Technology Professionals, a prestigious honor recognizing excellence among technology executives worldwide. The OnCon Icon Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of top organizations and leaders across industries. Recipients are selected entirely through peer voting. Voters chose leaders they felt demonstrated a strong mix of organizational success and positive impact,
Honor Credit Union Welcomes ?Tamiko Brown as Stevensville Branch Manager
Honor Credit Union Welcomes Tamiko Brown as Stevensville Branch Manager BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – May 28, 2025 – Honor Credit Union is proud to welcome Tamiko Brown to the team as Stevensville Branch Manager. Brown brings more than a decade of experience in the financial services industry to her new role. She earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational management and has built her career serving in a variety of customer-focused and leadership positions. Brown is passionate about supporting
Local High School Musicals Featured and Awarded at LMC’s WAVE Awards honoring Excellence in High School Musical Theatre
Thirteen local High Schools participated in the fifth annual WAVE Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre at the Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre on the Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave. on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. This year the WAVE Awards has grown to include students and arts educators from Berrien, Van Buren, and Cass Counties in Michigan and St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties in Indiana. The participating schools were evaluated by 10 adjudicators, and about 890 students
PRESS RELEASE: GREAT LAKES EYE CARE WELCOMES TWO DOCTORS: ??DR. JENNA STODDARD (OD) AND DR. ALEX STODDARD (MD)
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Alex Gaytán Practice Development Coordinator agaytan@greateyecare.com 269-428-3300 Ext. 266 GREAT LAKES EYE CARE WELCOMES TWO DOCTORS: DR. JENNA STODDARD (OD) AND DR. ALEX STODDARD (MD) Joining June 2026 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 2, 2026 SAINT JOSEPH, MI — Great Lakes Eye Care is proud to announce the addition of two new doctors. Dr. Jenna Stoddard, OD, and Dr. Alex Stoddard, MD, to their team of dedicated eye care professionals. Dr.
GREATER BRIDGMAN CGA HELPS SECURE MDARD GRANTS FOR TWO LOCAL BUSINESSES
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Nancy Kiernan Director Greater Bridgman Area CGA nkiernan@bridgmancga.org GREATER BRIDGMAN CGA HELPS SECURE MDARD GRANTS FOR TWO LOCAL BUSINESSES FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 28, 2026 BRIDGMAN, MI — The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber and Growth Alliance (BCGA) is celebratingthe achievement of two local businesses that have received grant funding through the MichiganDepartment of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), supporting economic vitality and
CE Competitive Edge LLC Named to PPAI 100 List for 2026
CE Competitive Edge LLC is proud to announce its inclusion on the prestigious PPAI 100 list for 2026. Recognized as one of the branded merchandise industry’s highest honors, the PPAI 100 celebrates the top 100 distributors and 100 suppliers based on comprehensive, data-driven evaluation.The PPAI 100 ranking assesses companies across a broad spectrum of performance indicators, including revenue growth, corporate social responsibility, technology adoption, workforce strength, employee satisfaction, and
Lake Michigan College Wine & Viticulture Technology program offering summer wine and cider tasting series
Southwest Michigan is home to one of the country's most celebrated wine regions, yet few who live in and visit the area have had the chance to truly explore what's in their glass. The Lake Michigan College Wine & Viticulture Technology program is changing that with a summer series of expert-led tasting sessions. The workshops are designed to deepen participants' understanding of wines and ciders from around the world and help them connect that knowledge to the vineyards and wineries right outside their
FROM CHILDREN'S DRAWINGS TO COMMUNITY LEGACY: BERRIEN SPRINGS LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO BRING DREAM PLAYGROUND TO LIFE
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jennifer Marren Community Engagement Coordinator Village of Berrien Springs 269-473-6921 cec@villageofberriensprings.com FROM CHILDREN'S DRAWINGS TO COMMUNITY LEGACY: BERRIEN SPRINGS LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO BRING DREAM PLAYGROUND TO LIFE Ribbon cutting to officially take place Friday, June 26th, 3:00PM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 26, 2026 BERRIEN SPRINGS, MI — A bold new community-driven effort is underway in Berrien Springs as residents, businesses,
Schnell & Waite - Other Brothers Folk & Americana Concert at the Box Factory on June 27
On Saturday, June 27 from 7-9PM, the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., presents an evening of music from duet Bill Schnell and Dennis Waite, joined with Mark Albers and Monte Blue. The once duet, now four performing under the name the “Other Brothers,” all with rich musical backgrounds, are prepared to entertain you with song and story!Make sure to reserve your seats! Tickets in advance are $20 for cabaret seating, $15 general admission at https://ticketstripe.com/Schnell_Waite, or $20 at the door.
2026 SWMI & National April Housing Market Higher Sales, Rising Mortgage Rate
“Sales in April for the local housing market surpassed 200 for the first time this year. Year-to-date sales were down for the fourth consecutive month in 2026 compared to 2025. The average selling price in April and year-to-date price were the highest in the year-over-year comparison dating back to 2006. Year-to-date, the total dollar volume was down 18 percent at the end of April. Th inventory of homes for sale did not increase to the level of listings in April 2025,” stated Luke Jeffries,
Southwest Michigan Study Explores How a Year-Round Marketplace Could Improve Food Access While Supporting Regional Agriculture
For generations, Southwest Michigan farmers have shaped the region's economy and identity, with the Benton Harbor Fruit Market (BHFM) serving as a key connection point between growers and buyers. Today, that system faces growing challenges. Farmers struggle with uncertainty in selling their products, and many residents lack consistent access to fresh, locally grown food. A regional feasibility study is now underway to explore whether a year-round local produce marketplace at BHFM could help address both
Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees Appoints Alloyd Blackmon as New Member
The Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees has voted to appoint Alloyd Blackmon as its newest member, filling the seat vacated by Joan Smith, who resigned in January. Blackmon brings to the Board a distinguished career in corporate leadership, nonprofit management, and community service across Southwest Michigan. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Southwest Michigan, which provides after-school and summer programming for youth in grades 1 through 12 across
Lake Michigan College Earns Prestigious ALL IN Highly Established Action Plan Seal for 2026 Election
Lake Michigan College (LMC) has been awarded the Highly Established Action Plan Seal by the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge for the 2026 election cycle, recognizing the college's exceptional commitment to fostering nonpartisan democratic engagement among its students. Led by Dr. Tiffany Bohm, Department Chair, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education, and Faculty, Political Science, LMC earned a score of 31.5 out of a possible 36 points on the Strengthening American Democracy Action Planning Guide
First Crate Strawberry Auction for Charity Returns to the Benton Harbor Fruit Market
A beloved Southwest Michigan tradition is making its return as the first crate strawberry auction for charity comes back to the Benton Harbor Fruit Market on Friday, May 29 at 10:00 a.m.As part of the kickoff to the market’s 166th season, Glassman Auctions & Real Estate will auction off strawberries from the first local grower to have fresh berries available for the 2026 season. In keeping with tradition, 100% of the proceeds from the auction will go directly to the buyer’s charity of choice.Community
BCF INVITES COMMUNITY TO EAT WELL, DO GOOD AND PUT MORE PRODUCE IN PANTRIES
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Susan Matheny Program Director Berrien Community Foundation 269-983-3304 BCF INVITES COMMUNITY TO EAT WELL, DO GOOD AND PUT MORE PRODUCE IN PANTRIES Seasonal produce subscriptions now available; orders due May 27 IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: SAINT JOSEPH, MI —Berrien Community Foundation, in partnership with the Nutrition Exchange of Southwest Michigan, is rolling out something fresh — and it’s good in every sense of the word. The For Good Produce
2026 KRASL ART FAIR DETAILS ANNOUNCED
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jamie Balkin Director of Events Krasl Art Center jamie@krasl.org KRASL.ORG 2026 KRASL ART FAIR DETAILS ANNOUNCED Winner of the Krasl Handcrafted Label Competition Revealed FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 15th, 2026 SAINT JOSEPH, MI — Krasl Art Center, in partnership with Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, announced details for the 2026 Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff at a Business After Hours event on Thursday, May 14th. In addition to the details
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) Returns $1.4 Million to Southwest Michigan Residents
United Way of Southwest Michigan's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, commonly known as VITA (pronounced VYE-tuh), is pleased to announce that this year's program helped 1,094 clients across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties with free tax preparation and filing, returning over $1.4 million in refunds to Southwest Michigan residents, a 12% increase in refund dollars year-over-year for the program. "This program is so integral to the ALICE population," stated Anna Murphy, President & CEO of United
CPR Dance: Inhale Movement Premieres Fifth Season, “Soma” at the Box Factory for the Arts on June 20
Southwest Michigan’s premier contemporary dance company, CPR Dance: Inhale Movement, will present their newest concert, “Soma,” on Saturday, June 20, from 7-9PM at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St.Make sure to reserve your seats! Tickets in advance are $20 for cabaret seating, $15 general admission at https://ticketstripe.com/cpr2026, or $20 at the door. Free admission for children 12 and under. Drinks will be available for purchase at the Box Bar.This highly anticipated performance will feature
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LAKE BLUFF ARTISAN FAIR RETURNS TO LAKE BLUFF PARK ON MAY 30
Over 50 regional artisans and crafters will share their talent at the Lake Bluff Artisan Fair, held in Lake Bluff Park from 10:00a-5:00p on Saturday, May 30. Event attendees will find one-of-a-kind handcrafted, homemade goods such as home décor, furniture, jewelry, candles, clothing and more. St. Joe Today invites the community to enjoy this eclectic artisan fair that overlooks Lake Michigan. 2026 show dates are May 30, July 18, August 15 and September 5. While you are downtown, be sure to EAT, SHOP,
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Honor Credit Union Awards $30,000 in ?Scholarships to Michigan High School Seniors
Honor Credit Union Awards $30,000 in Scholarships to Michigan High School Seniors BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – May 13, 2026 – Honor Credit Union is excited to announce the recipients of its 2026 Community Commitment Scholarship program. Each year, this program awards $30,000 to Michigan high school seniors who go above and beyond in their dedication to community service while also excelling academically. Through a blind selection process, twelve outstanding students have been chosen to receive
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR SBN UPFRONT TAKES PLACE
Officials gathered at South Bend International Airport (SBN) today to participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for SBN UpFront, a nearly $20 million project that will positively impact the passenger experience. This one-and-a half-year project is focused on passenger safety, improving traffic flow on the front drive, and increasing efficiency as historic levels of passenger growth continue to take place. The project includes a new transportation lane that will be used by taxis, rideshares like Uber and
Regional Chamber, Lake Michigan College, and Legata Leadership Solutions Announce 2026 Management Accelerator Cohort
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Sarah Spoonholtz Membership Director Regional Chamber sspoonholtz@smrchamber.com REGIONAL CHAMBER, LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE, AND LEGATA LEADERSHIP SOLUTIONS ANNOUNCE 2026 MANAGEMENT ACCELERATOR COHORT Applications now open for Cohort 2 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 12th, 2026 SAINT JOSEPH, MI — The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, in partnership with Lake Michigan College and Legata Leadership Solutions, is proud to announce the continued success of its
Southern California’s Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” coming to the LMC Mendel Center in October
Experience an unforgettable evening of live music when Southern California’s Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” comes to the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theater on Saturday, Oct. 10. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. A spirited blend of originality and the pursuit of excellence has taken Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” to a level of recognition normally reserved for Gold and Platinum recording artists. By respectfully and accurately reproducing the Grammy Award-winning sounds of our
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PRESS RELEASE: FRESH DECOR CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY WITH ALL DAY CELEBRATION
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Kym DeLong Hernandez Vice President Fresh Decor kym@myfreshdecor.com FRESH DECOR CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY WITH ALL DAY CELEBRATION Tuesday May 19, 8:00am - 5:00pm | Remarks: 12:30 PM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 12th, 2026 BENTON HARBOR, MI — Fresh Décor Pro Hardware is proud to celebrate its 25-year anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its journey of serving Southwest Michigan and its commitment to excellence. Please join us on
WILLOWBROOK FARMS ANNOUNCES SPRING OPENING & SMALL BUSINESS SHOWCASE IN CASSOPOLIS
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Vanessa Frias Owner Willowbrook Farms P:(574)386-7550 vanessa@willowbrookmi.com WILLOWBROOK FARMS ANNOUNCES SPRING OPENING & SMALL BUSINESS SHOWCASE IN CASSOPOLIS Join them Sunday, May 17th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 11th, 2026 CASSOPOLIS, MI – Willowbrook Farms is thrilled to announce its official Spring Opening and Small Business Celebration on Sunday, May 17th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Located at 19555 Bulhand St., the event
Whirlpool Corporation Appliance Sale Raises $139,000 for United Way of Southwest Michigan
The Annual Whirlpool Corporation Appliance Sale wrapped up another record-setting weekend in St. Joseph, raising $139,000 in net proceeds for United Way of Southwest Michigan, surpassing last year's total of $134,000. Senior Director of Organizational Sustainability Zack East notes, "This was our biggest sale since 2024, and the community showed up in a real way. Over 690 units were sold across the two days, and KitchenAid Small Appliances were the runaway favorite -- 445 of those units alone. That's
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Honor Credit Union Announces 2026 Free Community Shred Days
Honor Credit Union Announces 2026 Free Community Shred Days BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – MAY 7, 2026 – Honor Credit Union is excited to announce its 2026 Free Community Shred Days schedule, offering residents across western and northern Michigan a safe, convenient way to securely dispose of sensitive documents while supporting environmental sustainability. In partnership with trusted shredding service providers, Data Guardian and Country Mile Document Destruction, Honor’s Free Community Shred Days
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NEW WRESTLING & TRAINING FACILITY OPENS IN ST. JOSEPH WITH COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Lisa Altman Owner Great Lakes Training Center lisa@glwrestling.com NEW WRESTLING & TRAINING FACILITY OPENS IN ST. JOSEPH WITH COMMUNITY CELEBRATION Ribbon Cutting and Remarks Scheduled for 12:15 PM, May 16th FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 7th, 2026 ST. JOSEPH, MI — The community is invited to celebrate the grand opening of Great Lakes Wrestling and Training Center on Saturday, May 16, from 12:00 to 3:00 PM. This exciting event will feature an open house and
Two Lake Michigan College Students Receive 2026 Outstanding Musician of the Year Award
The Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department has recognized Landon Mitchell of Buchanan and Luis Sanchez of Niles as the 2026 Outstanding Musicians of the Year Award. The award recognizes leadership within music ensembles, growth in musical knowledge and performance, and excellence in the classroom.Reflecting on both students, Dr. Rob Lunn, Department Chair, Visual & Performing Arts, and Music Faculty said, “Landon demonstrates a strong understanding of music and consistently goes above and
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MEMORIAL DAY PARADE RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN ST. JOSEPH ON FRIDAY, MAY 22
St. Joe Today invites the community to join them for the 2026 Memorial Day Parade on Friday, May 22 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. Joe
Vegas cool meets holiday cheer at the LMC Mendel Center
Step back into the golden age of swing, swagger, and holiday cheer when Christmas with the Rat Pack comes to the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theater on Sunday, Dec. 6, for a special 3 p.m. matinee performance. Relive the glamour, laughter, and iconic music of Sinatra, Dean, and Sammy in their prime, complete with a special guest appearance by Marilyn Monroe. Together, they bring to life the timeless chemistry, comedy, and charisma that made the Rat Pack legendary. Audiences are transported
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
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
