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
Lake Michigan College announces nominees for 2026 WAVE Awards honoring High School Musical Theatre
The Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department has announced the nominees for its 2025-2026 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 13 high schools and about 890 students who participated in high school musical productions in the 2025-2026 academic year. Individuals and productions from participating schools were
LMC Names Spirit of Nursing Award Recipient for Spring 2026 Nursing Cohort
Asia Allen-Baugher had a career in ophthalmology. As a certified ophthalmic assistant, she moved up to working in the surgery center of a local eye care center. Following a mission trip to Africa, she was inspired to give more and became a registered behavior technician working with autistic children. But there was still something else she aspired to.She wanted to be a nurse.Reflecting on her decision, Allen-Baugher stated, “After working in other areas of healthcare for ten years, I finally decided it was
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ST. JOE LIGHTHOUSE TOURS KICKS OFF THE 2026 SEASON ON MAY 23
Explore the North Pier's Inner Light this summer during the St. Joe Lighthouse Tours. The 2026 season will run Saturdays, May 23 through September 5, from 10:00a-7:00p at the North Pier Inner Light located on the North Pier at Tiscornia Beach. Visitors will get to explore the free first-floor exhibit and learn about the St. Joe Lighthouse from the volunteer docents. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for a spectacular panoramic view for just $5. Tickets for the climb can be purchased in advance at the St.
MICHIANA ANNUAL ART COMPETITION OPENING RECEPTION AT THE BOX FACTORY ON MAY 15
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 from May 15 through July 5 with support from members, area businesses, and corporate sponsors, including Visit Southwest Michigan. Artists and the general public are invited to the MAAC Opening Reception on Friday, May 15, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Enjoy drinks for purchase at the Box Bar, free
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Honor Credit Union Welcomes Dylan Wyatt as Chief Information Officer
Honor Credit Union Welcomes Dylan Wyatt as Chief Information Officer BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – April 28, 2026 — Honor Credit Union is pleased to announce the appointment of Dylan Wyatt as Chief Information Officer. In this role, Wyatt will lead technology strategy, including cybersecurity, data, digital banking, and IT infrastructure that support the services members rely on every day. Wyatt brings nearly two decades of financial services and technology leadership experience spanning community
Wightman Announces New Shareholders and Board of Directors Leadership Reappointments
Wightman welcomed five new shareholders and announced the reappointment of its Board of Directors leadership at the firm’s annual shareholder meeting in April. These two milestones reflect the firm’s continued focus on employee ownership and long-term, strategic growth. New shareholders include Ashley Hilder, Dan Isbrecht, Christine Kennedy, Crystal Snow, and Anna Van Strien. Ashley Hilder is a project manager in the South Haven survey department with 21 years of experience. She began her career as
“WORK AT HAND” DOCUMENTARY FILM SHOWING AT THE BOX FACTORY MAY 23
“Work at Hand,” a documentary film about the painter Michael K. Paxton, will be presented at 7PM on May 23rd at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad Street. There will be an artist’s talk following the screening.A $5 donation to the Box Factory is requested to attend the screening. Drinks will be available for purchase at the Box Factory Bar.“Work at Hand” chronicles the life of the artist Michael K. Paxton. From his humble beginnings in the hills of West Virginia to his time as an art student at
Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan Launches Medically Appropriate Home-Delivered Meals for Seniors with Chronic Conditions Thanks to the Berrien Community Foundation ‘For Good’ Grant
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Linda Tinsley Executive Director Senior Nutrition Services / Meals on Wheels of SW Michigan (269) 925-0137 LTinsley@snsmeals.org Meals on Wheels of Southwest Michigan Launches Medically Appropriate Home-Delivered Meals for Seniors with Chronic Conditions Thanks to the Berrien Community Foundation ‘For Good’ Grant FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 27, 2026 Berrien County, MI — Senior Nutrition Services Region IV, Inc., doing business as Meals on Wheels of
United Way of Southwest Michigan's Annual Celebration Honors Community Champions Across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties
More than 300 donors, volunteers, and community partners filled Lake Michigan College's Mendel Center on Thursday, April 23, for United Way of Southwest Michigan's Annual Celebration, a night built around one simple idea: none of this happens without people. President & CEO Anna Murphy set the tone early, grounding the evening in the story of Tyrone, a Southwest Michigan resident whose path to stability ran through partners Michigan Works! Berrien Cass Van Buren and New Heights Auto Service. Before the
Student Speakers Selected for 79th Lake Michigan College Commencement Ceremonies
Carol Brînzan and Caleb Damoah have been selected as student speakers for Lake Michigan College's 79th 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 3, in the LMC 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, integrity, and compassion for their
“GODCOCTEAUTHEORY” EXPERIMENTAL SHORT FILM SHOWING AT THE BOX FACTORY MAY 15
Filmmakers Jon Hammerbeck and Neil Harvey are back at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., with a new experimental short film: “GodCocteauTheory.” The film will be screened repeatedly on Friday, May 15, from 5:30-7PM during the Opening Reception of this year's MAAC Exhibition at the Box Factory. Join the group down in the Box Factory’s Library on the lower floor, where commentary will be encouraged, and chocolate will be provided! “This experiment further fires our enthusiasm for the work and
2026 SWMI & National March Housing Market Sales and Selling Prices Fall.
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales and prices at the end of the first quarter of 2026 fell solidly behind the market in 2025. First-quarter sales dropped 19 percent this year compared to March 2025. However, sales increased 26 percent over sales in February, with the average selling prices rising 18 percent higher in March 2026 than in February,” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in
Accomplished area artists 'Face Off' at the Box Factory's Spring ArtJam Friday, May 1, 6-9PM
The public is invited to Face Off: A Live Portrait Event on Friday, May 1, 6-9PM, at the Box Factory for the Arts. Get ready for the exciting return of one of our most anticipated annual events — Face Off: A Live Portrait Event. For the past 25 years, Box Factory studio artist Robert Williams has held group portrait painting sessions twice every week. Face Off gives the public a unique opportunity to observe these talented local artists as they work. This year, 17 artists, each displaying their own
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Honor Credit Union Partners with ?Cetera Financial Institutions to Expand Investment Services
Honor Credit Union Partners with Cetera Financial Institutions to Expand Investment Services BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – April 23, 2026 – Honor Credit Union is expanding its investment services through a new relationship with Cetera Financial Institutions, enhancing access to personalized investment guidance and financial education through Honor Investment Services*. As a not-for-profit credit union, Honor exists to help individuals and families improve their financial well-being while supporting
Lake Michigan College inducts new honor society members 2026
Lake Michigan College inducted 58 students into the Mu Nu chapter of Phi Theta Kappa during its annual banquet on April 22 in the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall. Officers for the 2026-2027 academic year were also announced. They are:President- Denalia BlackVice President – Lauriebelle RadinLeadership Officer – Lynzi ZimmerleMembership Outreach – Bridget AndersonSecretary – Maori Asare PTK is the international community college honor society which focuses on service, scholarship,
SAINTS PORTRAIT EXHIBIT BY MATT PAYOVICH AT THE BOX FACTORY APRIL 23 - MAY 3
Local artist Matt Payovich was commissioned by Father David Kime of Mary, Mother of Mercy Parish in Michigan City, IN to create eight portraits of saints. The portraits will be hung adjacent to eight saint relics, which were donated to the church. Lucia-Bim Merle, the church's Pastoral Associate, said: “The relics are the sacred reminders of the men and women who lived their lives in faith.” Before the portraits are sent to the church for permanent installation, they will be on exhibit at the Box Factory
Lake Michigan College Celebrates 30 Years of Upward Bound
Lake Michigan College (LMC) is proud to mark a landmark milestone this academic year: 30 years of the Upward Bound program supporting first-generation, low-income students from the Benton Harbor area in their journey to and through higher education. Since its arrival at LMC, Upward Bound has served as a transformative force in the lives of hundreds of students, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and resources to pursue postsecondary success. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Upward
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ANTIQUES ON THE BLUFF RETURNS TO LAKE BLUFF PARK IN DOWNTOWN ST. JOSEPH - FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH, MAY THROUGH OCTOBER
The popular Antiques on the Bluff continues to be the place for rare finds and collectibles in Southwest Michigan. This series returns to Lake Bluff Park in downtown St. Joseph on May 3 from 10:00a to 5:00p. Show dates are May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2, September 6 and October 4. “Antiques on the Bluff is a unique experience for both vendors and attendees. Find something old that is new to you!” said Paul Knapp, executive director of St. Joe Today. “Held in Lake Bluff Park with Lake Michigan as the
MICHIGAN WORKS! ANNOUNCES EMPLOYER LINEUP AT APRIL 29 JOB FAIR
If you’re looking for a job, you’ll want to join Michigan Works! at their next hiring event where an estimated 25 employers will be meeting with candidates to fill their open positions. The next event will take place on Wednesday, April 29 from 10:00 am- 2:00 pm at the Michigan Works! Service Center, located at 499 West Main Street in Benton Harbor. The growing list of employers includes: Avid Health at Home, Centria Autism Center, Colson Group, Corewell Health, Elwood Staffing, Express Employment
LMC Mathletes Compete Nationally; Sets Third-Highest Individual Score in Program History
Lake Michigan College (LMC) Mathletes are celebrating a standout individual achievement from the Spring 2026 competition season. Marvyn Roy recorded a score of 23.5 on the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC) Student Mathematics League exam, the third-highest score ever achieved by an LMC Mathlete since the program began competing in 2010."Marvyn's performance this spring is a testament to the dedication and intellectual grit that defines our Mathletes program. To crack the top
The Whirlpool Corporation Appliance Sale Returns Just In Time for Spring Projects May 2 & 3
The Whirlpool Corporation Appliance Sale returns to help area residents get a jump on their spring home projects Saturday, May 2 from 8am-4pm and Sunday, May 3 from 10am-2pm in St. Joseph. This year’s in-person sale event will take place at 211 Hilltop in St. Joseph (main entrance of the Clark Logic Hilltop Business Center). Pickup for major appliances and large items will be at the Feeding America warehouse on Empire in Benton Township. The sale is open to the public and offers 300+ discounted Maytag,
Competitive Edge Named a 2026 Counselor Best Place to Work by ASI
Competitive Edge is proud to announce it has been named one of the 2026 Counselor Best Places to Work by Advertising Specialty Institute, the leading authority in the promotional products industry. 2026 Best Places to Work Article in Counselor Magazine This prestigious recognition is based entirely on employee feedback, evaluating companies across key workplace factors such as leadership, culture, communication, and professional development. The 2026 list highlights organizations that are intentionally
Inaugural Sip! Buchanan Event to Showcase Downtown Revitalization and Community Celebration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Allison Hayes ahayes@smrchamber.com Inaugural Sip! Buchanan Event to Showcase Downtown Revitalization and Community Celebration Buchanan, MI — Residents and visitors alike are invited to experience the charm and energy of downtown Buchanan on Saturday, May 16, 2026, during the inaugural Sip! Buchanan event, a lively community celebration hosted by the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Buchanan Downtown Development
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BENTON CHARTER TOWNSHIP SET TO BREAK GROUND ON EUCLID AVENUE PARK, APRIL 23RD
For Immediate Release Media Contacts: Lisa Cripps-Downey President Berrien Community Foundation 269-983-3304 lisa@berriencommunity.org Cathy Yates Supervisor Benton Charter Township cyates@bentonchartertownship-mi.gov BENTON CHARTER TOWNSHIP SET TO BREAK GROUND ON EUCLID AVENUE PARK Join us April 23rd to celebrate FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 15, 2026 Benton Heights, MI — Benton Charter Township is proud to announce the groundbreaking of the Euclid Avenue Park on December 4th at
Friends of Berrien County Trails Announces “Give Back to the Trails” Clean-Up Events, April 22–25
Friends of Berrien County Trails (FOBCT) invites residents, businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts to take part in a series of community trail clean-up events happening April 22–25, 2026, in celebration of Earth Day and Celebrate Trails Day.The “Give Back to the Trails” initiative brings volunteers together across the county to help maintain and beautify Berrien County’s growing trail network. Participants will assist with litter pickup, light maintenance, and general clean-up efforts to ensure trails remain
Comcast Business Launches Total Solutions Advantage: Simplified, All-In Plans for Small Businesses Starting at $60 per Month
Comcast Business has launched Total Solutions Advantage, a new suite of simplified, all-in-one technology plans that combine high-speed connectivity and built-in cybersecurity into a predictable monthly price starting at $60/month. Designed for small and growing businesses, the new plans reduce complexity, improve protection, and help owners stay focused on running their business. Small business owners can explore Total Solutions Advantage and check local availability at comcastbusiness.com/small-business.
SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT COLLECTING DONATIONS FOR TSA EMPLOYEES
South Bend International Airport (SBN) is collecting donations for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees who are working without pay due to the partial government shutdown. Items can be dropped off at the Airport Information office daily from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Airport Information is located near baggage claim across from the gift shop. The most needed items are:Gas cards to specific gas stations such as Speedway, Meijer, or Kroger. Gas cards must be in $10 denominations and cannot
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
