Lake Michigan College Police Academy cadets recognized during 2026 graduation ceremony
Lake Michigan College recognized 14 graduates of its Spring 2026 Police Academy during a ceremony on Wednesday, July 8, in the LMC Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre on the College’s Benton Harbor campus. LMC reintroduced its Police Academy in 2024 after a 42-year program hiatus to address a growing local need for the next generation of law enforcement professionals. With the completion of the third program session, 41 cadets have graduated and gone on to serve with 14 area city, township, and county departments
Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Endorses Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Millage Renewal
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO ahavlicek@smrchamber.com Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Endorses Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Millage Renewal Chamber: SWMRA (KBEH): A Critical Asset for Health, Safety, Education, & Economic Growth FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 8, 2026 ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber (SMRC) today announced its formal endorsement of the 10-year millage renewal for the Southwest Michigan Regional
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Timeless Charm Meets Modern Luxury: St. Joe River Lodge Debuts in Buchanan
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Lisa Alford Owner St Joe River Lodge lisa@stjoeriverlodge.com TIMELESS CHARM MEETS MODERN LUXURY: ST. JOE RIVER LODGE DEBUTS IN BUCHANAN Community invited to attend the official ribbon cutting on August 20 at 5:30 PM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 8, 2026 Buchanan, MI — The community is invited to celebrate the official grand opening of St. Joe River Lodge with a Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber ribbon-cutting ceremony and a Niles Chamber Third
2026 SWMI & National May Housing Market Brought Uptick in Sales For Start of Peak Selling Season
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales in May 2026 experienced a nice uptick that will hopefully bring a good peak selling season this summer. While the sales improved for May, they were down from May 2025. Homebuyers found the average selling price to be 6 percent higher and the median selling price 1 percent lower than in May 2025,” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in May fell 3 percent
The Loading Dock Celebrates Grand Opening in Downtown Buchanan
The Loading Dock, Buchanan's newest destination for live entertainment, community gatherings, and special events, will officially celebrate its Grand Opening on Saturday, July 25, 2026, with an evening of festivities, live music, and a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Located at 325 E. Front Street, Suite 118, inside the historic former Clark Equipment building, The Loading Dock represents the latest chapter in the ongoing transformation of one of Buchanan's most recognizable industrial landmarks into a
Lake Michigan College launches new Project Management Accelerator
Lake Michigan College is launching a new workforce training program designed to develop project management skills through a combination of structured instruction and real-world application. The Project Management Accelerator begins September 8, 2026, and is now open for enrollment. The 48-week program is applicable across industries, including manufacturing, construction, municipal public works, business operations, and engineering, as well as to any organization managing complex projects with
LMC Red Hawk student-athletes receive statewide accolades for academic excellence
Student-athletes from all nine Lake Michigan College intercollegiate sports teams have received statewide recognition for classroom excellence from the Michigan Community College Athletic Association. The recent MCCAA announcement for the 2025-2026 season included 62 LMC players. Among them are 51 who have earned individual Academic All-MCCAA status for a cumulative GPA of 3.20 or better, and 11 recognized as individual Academic All-Conference recipients for a GPA of 3.00 to 3.199. Additionally, the Red
Wightman Celebrates Industry Recognition for Frank Renaldi and Philip Doorlag
Wightman is proud to announce that two of its leaders have recently received industry honors recognizing their professional excellence, leadership, and commitment to the communities they serve.Frank Renaldi, PE, senior civil engineer and project manager at Wightman, has been named the recipient of the Franklin D. Meyers Outstanding Civil Engineer of the Year Award by the Michigan Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Wightman is also celebrating the recognition of Philip A. Doorlag, PE,
FAMILY NIGHT IN THE PLAZA KICKS OFF 2026 SEASON ON JULY 8
St. Joe Today is excited to announce a new event for the 2026 season, Family Night in the Plaza. This weekly event will be held on Wednesdays, July 8 through August 12, from 5:00p-8:00p in Court Place Plaza (across from Silver Harbor Brewing) and will feature a rotating featured entertainment, plus two non-profit tents hosting free, family-friendly crafts or activities. Sponsored by Silver Harbor Brewing and United Way of Southwest Michigan. "Our goal is to keep finding creative ways to bring our
The Box Factory is filled with art for the Series 4 Exhibition with a July 17 Opening Reception!
A variety of artistic styles and themes will be on exhibit at the Box Factory for the Arts from July 10-September 6. The public is invited to meet the artists at the Opening Reception on Friday, July 17, from 5:30-8pm. Light snacks and drinks at the Box Bar will be available. Phaseshifter Records, Benton Harbor's community record shop, will be spinning tunes from the stage next to the Box Bar.Featured artists are below.Southwest MichiganQueer Art Show Williams Gallery (main level)Queer Art SWMI is a
Enrollment open for Lake Michigan College fall 2026 Extended Education courses
Lake Michigan College's Extended Education program is offering an extensive lineup of fall classes designed for career advancement, skill building, and personal enrichment. Courses are offered at the College’s Benton Harbor and South Haven campuses and at the Allegan Tech Center, as noted. Registration is required for all classes, and space is limited. CDL-A TruckingMultiple sessions offered – visit www.lakemichigancollege.edu/extended-education/cdl for dates$5,200 | LMC South Haven CampusThree-week
MIKE YORE MEMORIAL CAR SHOW RETURNS JULY 17
St. Joe Today invites the community to the annual Mike Yore Memorial Car Show on Friday, July 17 from 4:00p-8:00p in downtown St. Joe. Step back in time and enjoy over 150 vintage cars lined up along Lake Boulevard as DJ Mark Durocher spins classic hits. Cars can start parking in the event zone along Lake Boulevard at 1:00p on Friday, July 17. Participating cars need to be in place no later than 4:00p (entrance may close before 4:00p if all spaces are filled). Please enter at Lake Boulevard and Park
COMMUNITY CELEBRATION, RIBBON CUTTING & DOOR PRIZE OPPORTUNITIES AT WOLF'S PRAIRIE PLAYGROUND
MEDIA INVITE Media Contact: Jennifer Marren Community Engagement Coordinator Village of Berrien Springs 269-473-6921 cec@villageofberriensprings.com COMMUNITY CELEBRATION, RIBBON CUTTING & DOOR PRIZE OPPORTUNITIES AT WOLF'S PRAIRIE PLAYGROUND Berrien Springs, MI — Community members and media are invited to join a special celebration for the grand opening of Wolf’s Prairie Playground, a one-of-a-kind, community-inspired space overlooking beautiful Lake Chapin. Event Details: Location:
Lake Michigan College Board Approves Fiscal Year 2027 Operating Budget
Lake Michigan College's Board of Trustees has approved the college's General Operating Fund Budget for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27), reflecting a 1.86% increase in total spending over the prior year. The budget is designed to support student access and institutional quality while maintaining a commitment to sound financial stewardship. "LMC has always been a careful steward of public dollars,” said Dr. Ken Flowers, President, Lake Michigan College. “With budget negotiations still unresolved in Lansing and
Honor Credit Union Announces Free Community Shred Day in Benton Harbor
Honor Credit Union Announces Free Community Shred Day in Benton Harbor BENTON HARBOR, MICHIGAN – JUNE 24, 2026 – Honor Credit Union, in partnership with Data Guardian, will host a Free Community Shred Day in Benton Harbor, MI. The event will be co-hosted at valued business partner, MOSAIC CCDA on Thursday, July 9, from 6:00 PM-7:30 PM. This event is one of six shred days held throughout the summer and provides a convenient and secure way for community members to dispose of sensitive documents.
Honor Credit Union Announces HomeBoost Grant to Expand Access to Homeownership
Honor Credit Union Announces HomeBoost Grant to Expand Access to Homeownership BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN — June 24, 2026 - Honor Credit Union is proud to announce its participation in the 2026 HomeBoost Down Payment Assistance Program in partnership with the FHLBank Indianapolis. This grant opportunity is designed to help remove one of the biggest barriers to homeownership—saving for a down payment. Beginning July 8, 2026, qualified first-time and first-generation homebuyers in Indiana and Michigan
Beach Town Hoedown in Downtown St. Joseph This Friday
Grab your boots and your sweet tooth: Donuts & Dancing: A Beach Town Hoedown is here this Friday, June 26, in the heart of downtown St. Joseph, and everyone’s invited. The free, family-friendly evening pairs warm, delicious donuts, live line dancing, and ice-cold drinks with one of Southwest Michigan’s best sunset views — all in the City of St. Joseph Social District. From 7 to 10 p.m., Zo’s Mini Donuts will be serving them hot and fresh, while Schu’s Bar & Grill pours drinks from 7 to 9 p.m. that guests
Lake Michigan College Names Dr. LaToya Mason as Provost
Lake Michigan College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. LaToya Mason as Provost. Dr. Mason brings more than 13 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education administration to the role, having most recently served as Dean of Health Sciences Education and Interim Provost at the College. Dr. Mason has been a cornerstone of Lake Michigan College since 2013, building a distinguished record of academic innovation, program development, and institutional advancement. As Dean of Health
PRESENT PILLARS FOUNDATION TO HOST EXPUNGEMENT OPPORTUNITY FAIR IN BENTON HARBOR
For Immediate Release Media Contact: James Gunter Co-Founder & Executive Director Present Pillars Foundation 269-332-0055 jgunter@presentpillars.org PRESENT PILLARS FOUNDATION TO HOST EXPUNGEMENT OPPORTUNITY FAIR IN BENTON HARBOR Saturday, July 11 | 12–4 PM | The Pillar Center, Benton Harbor FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE XX BENTON HARBOR, MI — Present Pillars Foundation will host an Expungement Opportunity Fair on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at The Pillar Center,
PRESENT PILLARS CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING AND FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WITH COMMUNITY EVENT
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Myla Jackson Center Manager mjackson@presentpillars.org 269-332-1102 presentpillars.org PRESENT PILLARS CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING AND FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WITH COMMUNITY EVENT Join them on Monday, July 6th from 4:00 to 6:00PM. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 19TH Benton Harbor, Michigan — Present Pillars is excited to invite community members, partners, supporters, and local organizations to celebrate the organization’s Grand Opening and fifth
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EDGEWATER AUTOMATION TO CELEBRATE 25 YEARS WITH OPEN HOUSE AT ST. JOSEPH, MICHIGAN FACILITY
Edgewater Automation will celebrate its 25th anniversary with an open house on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at its St. Joseph facility. The event will feature a keynote address, guided facility tours, lunch, and live robotic demonstrations, giving attendees an opportunity to see the advanced automation equipment and systems Edgewater Automation designs and builds, including robotics, machine vision, motion control, automated test and data acquisition, and software control and management
Cass County School Supply Spectacular Registration is Now Open
Registration is now open for the 2026 School Supply Spectacular, and United Way of Southwest Michigan is asking Cass County families who could use a hand to sign up before backpacks run out. The annual event gives local students in need a free backpack filled with age-appropriate school supplies so they can start the year ready to learn. Online registration is now open at SchoolSupplySpectacular.com. Backpacks are available to children from pre-K through 12th grade who reside in or attend school in
Honor Credit Union Announces Promotion of ?Megan Ankrapp as Commercial Loan Officer
Honor Credit Union Announces Promotion of Megan Ankrapp as Commercial Loan Officer BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – JUNE 16, 2026 – Honor Credit Union is pleased to announce the promotion of Megan Ankrapp as Commercial Loan Officer, serving the Baroda, Niles, Buchanan, and Berrien Springs communities. Ankrapp brings a strong background in banking and finance to her new role, along with a deep connection to Southwest Michigan. She is a graduate of Buchanan High School and has pursued her studies in
Three’s the Charm when Langford Lads Take the Stage at the Box Factory July 25
Whether you love bouncy jigs, Gaelic ballads, or breathtaking bluegrass pickin’, you’ll enjoy all those and more when the Langford Lads take the Box Factory stage. The Lads have entertained thousands with their astonishing mash-up of Irish, bluegrass, and American folk styles. Expect an engaging, informal vibe on Saturday, July 25, 7-9PM, at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St. Reserve your seats early for this thrilling trio from Roosevelt, MI. Tickets are $20 for cabaret seating and $15 general
PRESS RELEASE: GREATER NILES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TO HOST 2026 CHAMBER PULSE LUNCHEON
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director Regional Chamber jhansen@smrchamber.com GREATER NILES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TO HOST 2026 CHAMBER PULSE LUNCHEON Join us June 30th at The Morris Estate FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 16TH NILES, MI — The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Chamber Pulse Luncheon, presented by C&S Machine, on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Morris Estate. The event will bring together business
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’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
