Johnny L. Ford Shares His Life-Changing Struggle to Keep His Family’s Home
Johnny L. Ford knows what it’s like to face hard times. After the stock market crash of 2008, he and his wife, Jeanne, both lost their jobs and were faced with the possibility of losing their beloved Benton Harbor home. Johnny detailed their struggle through—and eventual emergence from—the recession and foreclosure crisis in his memoir, “There’s No Place Like Home: A Year in Foreclosure.” Johnny will bring his inspiring story to the stage at the Box Factory for the Arts on Saturday, August 23, from 7-9
.png){kind=logo}
Berrien County Cancer Service Announces Appointment of Tyanna Essig as Executive Director, Succeeding 13-Year Leader of the organization, Nancy Church, RN.
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Tyanna Essig, President/CEO Berrien County Cancer Service 269-429-3281 tyanna@bccancerservice.org Berrien County Cancer Service Announces Appointment of Tyanna Essig as Executive Director, Succeeding 13-Year Leader of the organization, Nancy Church, RN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 29th, 2025 Saint Joseph, MI — The Berrien County Cancer Service, dedicated to providing compassionate in-home skilled nursing care and supportive resources for individuals
NRC Reauthorizes Palisades Operating License in Historic First for U.S. Nuclear Industry
In a major milestone for the U.S. nuclear industry, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has formally approved Holtec’s request to transition the Palisades Nuclear Plant from decommissioning status back to an operating license. The NRC’s action reflects its thorough review of Palisades’ licensing basis under the agency’s existing regulatory framework, marking the first time a previously shut-down U.S. nuclear plant has received approval to return to operations. “This is a proud and historic moment
2025 SWMI & National June Housing Market Slips From Robust Sales in May
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales in June 2025 slipped from the gain in May but were 5 percent higher than a year ago. Homebuyers found selling prices to be significantly higher than in June 2024.” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in June increased 5 percent to 252 from 239 in June 2024. Year-to-date, the number of houses sold increased 4 percent (1,267 vs. 1,217).” The inventory of
Bricks & Minifigs®, the Saint Joseph one-stop shop to buy, sell, and trade all things LEGO®, will open August 2nd in the Southtown Center
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Fernanda Pineda Owner saintjoseph.mi@bricksandminifigs.com Bricks & Minifigs®, the Saint Joseph one-stop shop to buy, sell, and trade all things LEGO®, will open August 2nd in the Southtown Center FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 23, 2025 SAINT JOSEPH, MI - Bricks & Minifigs® is the largest franchised toy store of its kind specializing in the buying, selling and trading of new and used LEGO® sets, bulk bricks, and minifigures (“minifigs”). The store will be
Palisades Meets Key Regulatory Milestones and Makes Major Strides in Maintenance and Workforce Expansion to Ensure Timely Restart
Palisades Meets Key Regulatory Milestones and Makes Major Strides in Maintenance and Workforce Expansion to Ensure Timely Restart Holtec’s Palisades Nuclear Power Plant continues to move steadily toward restart, with major progress in physical refurbishment, Operator training, and positive feedback from independent nuclear industry reviewers. Our team remains on track to support a return to safe and reliable operations, pending
New Chamber Growth Alliance (CGA) Launches in Central Berrien County
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO ahavlicek@smrchamber.com New Chamber Growth Alliance (CGA) Launches in Central Berrien County Announces Robert "Bob" Jones, Inaugural Director FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 22, 2025 Berrien Springs, MI - This summer, Central Berrien County will begin receiving additional community and economic development services thanks to its newly established Chamber Growth Alliance (CGA). Powered by the Southwest Michigan Regional
Zo's Mini Donuts and Sunset Coast Country Dancers Team Up for Friday Night Fun
ST. JOSEPH, MI – Get ready to kick up your heels and satisfy your sweet tooth! Zo's Mini Donuts and Sunset Coast Country Dancers are partnering for a special event on Friday, August 1st at Zo's Mini Donuts St. Joseph location. Starting at 7 PM, guests can enjoy Zo's signature hot and fresh mini donuts, made-to-order and served with a beautiful Lake Michigan sunset view. Starting at 8 PM, when Sunset Coast Country Dancers take center stage for free line dance lessons! Led by expert teachers, these
A Motown Christmas returns to the LMC Mendel Center in December
The magic of Motown and the spirit of the holidays come together for one unforgettable show as A Motown Christmas returns to the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre on Sunday, Dec. 21, at 3 p.m. Backed by a powerhouse band and horn section, this holiday spectacular stars The Motortown All-Stars, a dazzling lineup of vocalists and musicians who’ve performed with legendary Motown acts including The Temptations, The Miracles, and The Contours. Together, they bring Motown’s timeless hits and
United Way of Southwest Michigan’s ROCK THE BOAT Presented by Honor Credit Union Ready to Host 19 Ra
United Way of Southwest Michigan’s ROCK THE BOAT Cardboat Boat Races, Presented by Honor Credit Union, are back at the Inn at Harbor Shores on the St. Joseph River Channel this Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 5pm. The event is free to attend and open to the public with parking available down the street from the Inn at Harbor Shores on the opposite side of the Gast Parkway overpass. Media are invited to attend the event as a VIP by registering at this link, and, you can find a media kit for the event at this
Ken Flowers of Lake Michigan College Selected for the Aspen Institute’s Rising Presidents Fellowship
Benton Harbor, MI — The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program (Aspen) recently announced that Dr. Ken Flowers, Executive Vice President at Lake Michigan College, is one of 40 exceptional leaders selected for the 2025-26 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship. Chosen from more than 120 applicants nationwide, Dr. Flowers joins a distinguished cohort of future college presidents who are dedicated to advancing student success and equity in higher education. The Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship
Freedom Center for the Arts presents ''summer songwriters''
Young "summer songwriters" will perform original work at 7 p.m. on August 2nd at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad Street, St. Joseph, MI. Tickets at https://ticketstripe.com/freedomcenter for the event are $15 for cabaret seating and $12 general admission. Tickets at the door will be $15 with children 12 and under admitted free. The inaugural "summer songwriters" program is hosted by Jeremy T. Butler of the Freedom Center for Arts and Education in Benton Harbor, MI. Musicians participated in a
Peats Cider Social Celebrates Five Years with Family-Friendly Bash on July 20th
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Dan Peat Owner dan@peatscidersocial.com www.peatscidersocial.comPeats Cider Social Celebrates Five Years with Family-Friendly Bash on July 20th For Immediate Release: July 15, 2025 Stevensville, Michigan – Raise a glass and cheers! Peat's Cider Social is celebrating five unforgettable years on Sunday, July 20th from 3–8 PM at its Stevensville taproom. What started as a dream to bring people together over small-batch, locally inspired hard cider has
LMC students earn spots on Spring 2025 President’s, Dean’s Lists
Lake Michigan College has announced the names of students recognized for academic achievement during the 2025 Spring semester.There were 69 students named to the President’s List, achieving a 4.0 GPA at full-time status. The Dean’s List, meanwhile, includes 195 full-time students and 474 part-time students who achieved a 3.5 GPA or higher.President’s ListBangorIsabel GarciaBarodaHailey Cote, Charley KrackerBenton Harbor Hailey Mercado, David Nichols, Emma Stout, Nathaniel TurnerBerrien CenterSteven
.png){kind=logo}
WEDNESDAY NIGHT MARKET & FREE CONCERTS THIS SUMMER 2025 IN DOWNTOWN ST. JOE
St. Joe Today is excited to announce the return of both the Wednesday Brown Bag Concert Series and the Friday Night Concert Series. Both series will showcase regional musicians for a free hour-long concert each week in one of the most scenic venues along Lake Michigan’s shore. Performances will take place at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell on Port Street which offers concertgoers a beautiful view of the St. Joseph River, Lake Michigan, and downtown St. Joe. The Wednesday Brown Bag Concert Series offers
.png)
Buchanan’s Got Talent: A New Community Showcase Celebrating Local Talent and the Arts
This summer, Cultural Arts Everywhere is thrilled to introduce a brand-new event to the community: Buchanan’s Got Talent, taking place on Tuesday, August 19 at 7:00 p.m. at The Buchanan Common.This special evening is designed to highlight and celebrate the incredible creativity and artistic talent that exists within our own town. From singers, dancers, jugglers, poets, and magicians to completely unique acts—we welcome all Buchanan residents to share their gifts on stage. Whether you're a seasoned performer
(2).jpg)
Gym Rat Performance and Wellness Opens in Stevensville
For Immediate Release Media Contact: James Morris, PT, DPT, CSCS Owner james@gymratpw.com 269-999-4508 Gym Rat Performance and Wellness Opens in Stevensville Now Accepting Everyday Patients for Pro-Level Recovery FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2025 Stevensville, MI – What do you get when you take a self described gym rat, who happens to be a four–sport athlete, add a passion for Physical Therapy, and a desire to change clients mindset from “lifespan” to “healthspan”? You get James Morris PT,
Lake Michigan College Awarded Grant to Expand Emergency Student Aid, Eliminate Barriers to Success
Lake Michigan College (LMC) is taking steps to ensure that students facing financial hardship can stay enrolled and complete their education. Thanks to a $99,954 MiLEAP Breaking Barriers Direct to Students grant, the College is launching a significant initiative to simplify and expand access to emergency aid. The project is led by Leslie Navarro, Director of Student Well-Being & Accessibility. “This is about removing roadblocks,” Navarro said. “Students who are in crisis don’t have time to navigate
The Sport Stash at Building 324 to Host Ribbon Cutting
Join the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce for a special ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, July 18th at 2pm! Buchanan, MI – The Sport Stash - “From Hobby to Hustle: Our Story” ”What started as a 9-year-old’s passion in 2018—sparked by the 2016 Chicago Cubs and a love for the game—quickly grew into something more. Fueled by a deep interest in collecting, our founder - Trevin Armstrong - turned a personal hobby into a full-fledged business. After launching in 2020 and building a strong presence online
The GhostLight Theatre’s 2025 Young Apprentice production kicks off with Sarah DeLappe’s powerful 1-act play “The Wolves” July 17th-20th in Benton Harbor
The GhostLight Theatre continues its 2025 Theatre Season with **THE WOLVES – a play written Sarah DeLappe, & directed by Lindsay Gilmore-Gaspari (She Kills Monsters). The Wolves marks the 4th production of The GhostLight Theatre’s 6th season, and it will be presented in the GhostLight’s Black Box Theatre space from Thursday, July 17thh through Sunday, July 20th. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, curtain is at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 3 p.m. at 101 Hinkley Street in Benton Harbor. General Admission
EOPA and officials highlight how Benton Harbor’s clean energy and environmental initiatives will bring energy security, environmental justice and prosperity Federal, state and local grants help Bent
EOPA and officials highlight how Benton Harbor’s clean energy and environmental initiatives will bring energy security, environmental justice and prosperity Federal, state and local grants help Benton Harbor on the road to energy and environmental security HOST: Christian Brock, Elected Officials to Protect America, former Air Force Veteran SPEAKERS: Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad — keynote U.S. Congresswoman Haley Stevens (tentative) State Representative Joey Andrews Marcy Hamilton,
Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees Accepts AA+ Credit Rating from Standard & Poor's
The Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees has accepted a comprehensive ratings report from Standard & Poor's (S&P) that assigns the College an AA+ credit rating with a stable outlook. This distinction places Lake Michigan College among an elite group, as it is one of only two community colleges in Michigan to achieve this top-tier AA+ rating.In February 2025, Standard & Poor's conducted a thorough financial evaluation of Lake Michigan College and reaffirmed its general creditworthiness with the AA+
.png){kind=logo}
MIKE YORE MEMORIAL CAR SHOW PART OF LOVE LOCAL WEEKEND JULY 18-20
St. Joe Today invites the community to celebrate all things Southwest Michigan during the Love Local Weekend July 18-20. The weekend kicks off with the Mike Yore Memorial Car Show on Friday, July 18 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 19. Participating cars need to be in place no later than 4:00p
Three’s the Charm when Langford Lads Take the Stage at the Box Factory July 26
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. That plus a beat-the-heat cash bar will be on tap Saturday, July 26, 7-9 p.m., at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St. Reserve your seats early for this thrilling trio from Roosevelt, MI. Tickets are $15 for cabaret seating or
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
