NJCAA recognizes 27 Lake Michigan College student-athletes for academic excellence Red Hawk volleyball and softball spotlighted for team academic success
NJCAA recognizes 27 Lake Michigan College student-athletes for academic excellenceRed Hawk volleyball and softball spotlighted for team academic success BENTON HARBOR, Mich. - Two Lake Michigan College teams and 27 student-athletes across various sports have been honored by the National Junior College Athletic Association for outstanding academic achievement during the 2024-2025 season. "These students prove that academic and athletic excellence go hand in hand," said LMC Dean of Student Life and Engagement
Lake Michigan College Police Academy cadets recognized during graduation ceremony
Lake Michigan College Police Academy cadets recognized during graduation ceremony BENTON HARBOR, MICH. – Thirteen recruits were recognized for successful completion of the 2025 Lake Michigan College Police Academy during a graduation ceremony held Wednesday in the LMC Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre on the College’s Benton Harbor campus.Graduates completed the rigorous 16-week program by mastering an extensive range of skills- and knowledge-based topics including emergency vehicle operation, firearms,
COMPETITIVE EDGE NAMED TO PPAI’S GREATEST COMPANIES TO WORK FOR
Competitive Edge has been named one of Greatest Companies to Work For in 2025 by Promotional Products Association International (PPAI). The honor recognizes distributors and suppliers that foster outstanding workplace cultures. The recognition is based on direct employee feedback gathered through a company-wide evaluation of key workplace factors including leadership, communication, benefits and professional development. The companies selected set the standard for what it means to be an exceptional place
Corewell Health ™, in Collaboration with Lakeland Care Network, Offers Community Flu Clinics in Southwest Michigan
Corewell Health™, in collaboration with Lakeland Care Network, is offering influenza (flu) vaccines to adults 18 years and older at drive-thru and walk-in clinics throughout Southwest Michigan.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a yearly flu vaccine for nearly everyone ages six months and older as the best protection from this serious illness. The optimal time to get the flu vaccine is September through October, to provide better protection, but individuals can get a shot anytime
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Anytime Fitness Stevensville Announces Fall Fit Fest: A Free Community Health & Fitness Event
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Joy Bradley Manager stevensvillemi@anytimefitness.com (269) 429-1222Anytime Fitness Stevensville Announces Fall Fit Fest: A Free Community Health & Fitness Event Join in the fun September 9th, 4:00-7:00pm August 28th, 2025 STEVENSVILLE, MI – Anytime Fitness Stevensville is excited to host its first Fall Fit Fest on Tuesday, September 9 from 4PM to 7PM at the Anytime Fitness Stevensville location. This free, family-friendly event is designed to celebrate
Lake Michigan College Offers Multiple Opportunities for Local Employers to Connect with Students This Fall
Lake Michigan College (LMC) is inviting local employers to take advantage of several exciting opportunities to connect with students and potential employees throughout the fall semester. From ongoing weekly spotlights to signature campus events, these initiatives are designed to bridge the gap between education and employment in Southwest Michigan. Three Key Opportunities for Employer Engagement Take Flight: LMC's Career & Transfer Expo LMC's signature fall event combines the best elements of a
SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO LAUNCH GOODMAPS FOR ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL
South Bend International Airport (SBN) is thrilled to announce the official launch of GoodMaps on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. GoodMaps is an interactive digital map and accessible wayfinding service offering real-time guidance for all travelers, including those with disabilities. A special event, open to the public, will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the atrium located east of the Delta ticket counter. Attendees will experience live, hands-on demonstrations and training of the GoodMaps app,
2025 SWMI & National July Housing Market Down from a Year Ago
“Southwest Michigan’s housing market sales in July 2025 were slightly higher than in June but were 12 percent lower than last year in July. Homebuyers benefited from lower selling prices in July compared to those in June. Selling prices reached their highest level compared to a year ago and for the last twenty years in the year-over-year comparison,” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in July
Lake Michigan College offering a full slate of Extended Education courses this fall
Lake Michigan College's Extended Education program is offering an extensive lineup of fall classes designed for career advancement, skill building, and personal enrichment. From professional certifications and workforce training to wellness programs and creative pursuits, the 2025 Fall schedule provides opportunities for learners of all backgrounds and interests. Classes begin in September and run through December, with flexible scheduling options including evenings and intensive one-day formats. Film
United Named a 2025 Best Credit Union to Work For
United Named a 2025 Best Credit Union to Work ForEmpowering People, Leading Culture, and Building Futures ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) is proud to announce its recognition as one of the 2025 Best Credit Unions to Work For, a prestigious honor awarded by American Banker in partnership with Best Companies Group. This annual program celebrates credit unions that excel in workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and organizational impact. This year’s list includes sixty-eight
The Ten Tenors 30th Anniversary World Tour Coming to the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center
BENTON HARBOR, MICH. – The vocal wonders from Down Under, The Ten Tenors, are bringing their electrifying 30th Anniversary World Tour to the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre in Benton Harbor, Michigan, for one performance only on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. After rave reviews, standing ovations, and sold-out tours across Europe and Australia, these ten talented and charismatic Aussies are thrilled to return to North America. Celebrated globally for their unique blend of soaring
Lake Effect Jazz brings Big Band songs, swing and swoon to the Box Factory on Sept. 20
Lake Effect Jazz brings Big Band songs, swing and swoon to the Box Factory on Sept. 20 ST. JOSEPH, MI – Now in its 26th year, Lake Effect Jazz Big Band continues to be one of the premier big bands in the Midwest. Featuring classic standards as well as new big band compositions, Lake Effect Jazz BB performs the music of Stan Kenton, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, Pat Metheny and others. Mark your calendar for their final, high-energy concert of the year on Saturday, Sept. 20, 7-9 p.m., at
Celebrate SMSO's Diamond Anniversary with a Bridgerton-Inspired Ball
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jessica Ishmael President & CEO jessica@smso.org 269.982.4030SMSO Announces 75th Anniversary Celebration, Fundraiser and Regency Ball Join us October 11th, purchase your tickets by September 7th August 22, 2025 BENTON HARBOR, MI – This spring the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra announced the organization would celebrate its 75th anniversary in the 2025-2026 season. To honor the occasion and continue to fundraise toward a sustainable symphony, the
SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO HOST SEVENTH ANNUAL AVIATION EDUCATION DAY
South Bend International Airport (SBN) is hosting the seventh annual Aviation Education Day on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Studebaker Hangar just west of the main terminal at 4817 Lincoln Way West. The event is free and open to the public. Aviation Education Day offers community members of all ages an opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at different aspects of aviation through numerous family-friendly activities, resources, and more. Event highlights
Fall Garden Party Fundraiser at Fernwood on September 21
Fernwood’s annual Garden Party fundraiser is returning this fall on Sunday, September 21, starting at 2 PM. The event will include remarks and a meet-and-greet with special guest Daniel Hinkley, a renowned plantsman, author, plant collector, and lecturer. A Michigan native, Hinkley is best known for founding Heronswood Nursery in Kingston, Washington, and Windcliff on the Kitsap Peninsula near Indianola, Washington. He has gained recognition for his efforts in collecting, propagating, and naming plant
Series 5 Exhibit Opens Sept. 12 at the Box Factory Featuring Metalwork, Fiber Art, Paintings and Mor
From weavings and quilts to paintings and metalwork, an eclectic variety of artwork is on display at at the Box Factory for the Arts’ new Series 5 exhibition running Sept. 12 to Oct. 26. The public is invited to meet the artists at the Opening Reception on Friday, Sept.12, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Light snacks and a cash bar will be available. The Series 5 exhibit is this year’s fifth show displaying artwork in four galleries on all three floors of the historic building. Featured artists are below. The
CALL FOR ARTISTS for 2026 Exhibition Series at Box Factory for the Arts
The Box Factory for the Arts is accepting applications for art exhibits for its 2026 Gallery Exhibition Series. Artists may propose an individual exhibition or a themed group show. All media will be considered. Exhibits run for six weeks. The Box Factory has four spacious galleries on three levels, each displaying a different exhibit. About two dozen pieces would be necessary to comfortably fit one of the galleries. As an alternative to an individual exhibit, artists can put together a two- or three-person
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Honor Credit Union Welcomes New Commercial Loan Officer Sean Pendel
Honor Credit Union Welcomes New Commercial Loan Officer Sean Pendel BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – August 19, 2025 – Honor Credit Union is proud to welcome Sean Pendel as a new Commercial Loan Officer serving the communities of Niles, Buchanan, Dowagiac, Berrien, and St. Joseph. With a strong background in business administration, finance, and operations, Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Honor’s growing commercial lending team. Sean earned his Bachelor of Science in Business
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SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN CELEBRATES LABOR DAY WEEKEND, AUGUST 29-SEPTEMBER 1 2025
ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — Summer spirit continues in Southwest Michigan through Labor Day weekend. St. Joe Today invites locals and visitors to check out community events throughout the weekend in and around St. Joseph. "It’s been a beautiful summer in St. Joseph," said Paul Knapp, executive director of St. Joe Today. "We're encouraging everyone to enjoy one last weekend of summer fun this Labor Day! Find your favorite spot—be it a beach, a downtown shop, or a local brewery—before our fall events begin!" On
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Stevensville-Benton Harbor Hosts Grand Opening Celebration
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Melissa McCauley Sales Manager- Amerilodge Group melissa.mccauley@amerilodgegroup.com 269-281-8900Holiday Inn Express & Suites Stevensville-Benton HarborHosts Grand Opening Celebration Join in the Celebration August 25th, 5:00-7:00PM August 20, 2025 STEVENSVILLE, MI – The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is excited to announce the Grand Opening Celebration of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Stevensville-Benton Harbor. Community members, business
United Federal Credit Union Adds Director of Commercial Lending Sales
United Federal Credit Union Adds Director of Commercial Lending Sales Johnathan Wingfield, Director of Commercial Lending Sales ST. JOSEPH, Mich. –United Federal Credit Union (United) continues its focus on expanding its commercial lending footprint and has added Johnathan Wingfield as its new Director of Commercial Lending Sales. Wingfield will be based in South Bend, Indiana and will lead United’s team of Business Loan Officers and Commercial Loan Officers throughout the country. "We are thrilled to
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Denise McGowan Tracy Brings Her Unstoppable Show to the Box Factory Stage
Denise McGowan Tracy Brings Her Unstoppable Show to the Box Factory Stage ST. JOSEPH, MI – Denise McGowan Tracy has issued a challenge to the audience at her upcoming performance at the Box Factory for the Arts. Her dynamic show, “Try and Stop Me!” features an evening of stories and song culled from her four decades in the entertainment business. She will bring “Try and Stop Me!” to the stage on Saturday, September 6, from 7-9 p.m. at the Box Factory, 1101 Broad St. in St. Joseph. Tickets are $15 for
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The Grant Hotel & McCollum’s Restaurant & Bar Host Ribbon-Cutting Celebration in Buchanan
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Cami Bowling Managing Partner info@thegranthotels.comThe Grant Hotel & McCollum’s Restaurant & Bar Host Ribbon-Cutting Celebration in Buchanan Join in the Celebration August 26th, 4:00-6:00PM Buchanan, MI – The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, in partnership with the Buchanan Area Chamber, invites the community to join us Tuesday, August 26th from 4:00–6:00 p.m. for a ribbon-cutting celebration at The Grant Hotel and McCollum’s Restaurant & Bar in
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Southwest Michigan Dermatology Welcomes Dr. Brittany Valk with St. Joseph Open House Event
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jennifer Pugh, RMA Aesthetics & Marketing Coordinator jpugh@swmderm.com 269-321-SKIN (7546) ext. 450Southwest Michigan Dermatology Welcomes Dr. Brittany Valk with St. Joseph Open House Event Join Us on August 19th, 4:00-6:00pm August 14, 2025 St. Joseph, MI — Southwest Michigan Dermatology is proud to welcome board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brittany Valk, D.O. to its St. Joseph office, marking an exciting expansion of full-time care for patients
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Depths Society Golf Opens in Stevensville, Celebrates with Ribbon Cutting & Hole-in-One Contest
For Immediate Release Media Contact: 269-932-2642 golf@watermarkbrewing.comDepths Society Golf Opens in Stevensville, Celebrates with Ribbon Cutting & Hole-in-One Contest Join Us Monday, August 18th, 12:00-2:00pm August 15, 2025 Stevensville, MI — The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is excited to welcome Depths Society Golf (DSG) to the Chamber and Stevensville community with a celebratory Ribbon Cutting & Hole-in-One Contest on Monday, August 18th from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at 2670 W
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St. Joseph-Lincoln Senior Service Center Celebrates 50 Years of Serving the Community with an Annive
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Cindi McLaughlin Executive Director (269)429-7768 director@sjlsc.orgSt. Joseph-Lincoln Senior Service Center Celebrates 50 Years of Serving the Community with an Anniversary Celebration Join in the Celebration on Monday, August 25th For Immediate Release: August 14, 2025 Saint Joseph, Michigan – The St. Joseph-Lincoln Senior Service Center, a beacon of support for older adults and a proud anchor in our community, is thrilled to announce its 50th
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Hareloom Café Opens in Stevensville, Celebrates with Ribbon Cutting
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Joey Micelli Owner (269) 429-8696 joey@hareloomcafe.com Hareloom Café Opens Its Doors in Stevensville — A Cozy New Breakfast & Lunch Destination Join Us Wednesday, August 20th, 2:00- 3:00pm August 14, 2025 Stevensville, MI — A warm, inviting new spot for breakfast and lunch has arrived in Stevensville: Hareloom Café. Nestled in a storied space where original tin ceilings and worn hardwood floors whisper of bygone days, Hareloom brings together thoughtful
UNITED INCREASES FLYING AT SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
UNITED INCREASES FLYING AT SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTSouth Bend, IN. – United Airlines is increasing flying between South Bend International Airport (SBN) and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD). United currently operates six daily roundtrip flights between the two airports. On September 2, 2025, that increases to seven daily roundtrip flights and will increase to eight daily roundtrip flights on October 1, 2025. These flights allow for maximum flexibility for business and leisure travelers
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DOWNTOWN ST. JOE SIDEWALK SALES AND LOVE LOCAL WEEKEND, AUGUST 15-17
St. Joe Today invites the community to shop locally during Downtown St. Joe Sidewalk Sales held Friday, August 15 and Saturday, August 16 from 10:00a-5:00p. Shoppers will enjoy exploring outdoor sales and displays throughout downtown during this special event. Participating locations include: DK Boutique, G&M Variety, Glik’s, Grins of St. Joseph, Harbor Town Interiors, Infusco Coffee, Lana’s Boutique, Lazy Ballerina Winery, Lee & Birch, Oh My Darlings, Olive Cart, Perennial Accents, St. Joe Community
The GhostLight Theatre presents the epic Musical “CHESS” as its 2025 summer season finale August 14
The GhostLight Theatre finishes its 2025 Summer Theatre Season with the epic 1980s-era musical CHESS, with a book by Richard Nelson, Lyrics by Tim Rice, and music by Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Anderson (from the band ABBA). Directed by Artistic Director Paul Mow, with choreography by Paige Mulick, CHESS marks the 5th production of The GhostLight Theatre’s 6th season, and it will be presented in the GhostLight’s Black Box Theatre space from Thursday, August 14th through Sunday, August 24th. On Thursday,
Calling All Changemakers in Zip Code 49022: Apply Now for the Community Leadership Academy — Deadline August 15
Calling All Changemakers in Zip Code 49022: Apply Now for the Community Leadership Academy — Deadline August 15 Do you see untapped potential in your neighborhood? Are you ready to lead the change you want to see? The Community Leadership Academy is now accepting applications for its first cohort, launching in September 2025 in Benton Harbor and Benton Township within the 49022 ZIP code. If you’re a resident with a passion for community, bold ideas, and a commitment to making a difference, this FREE
Annual Whirlpool Appliance Sale is Back August 23 & 24 in St. Joseph, Benefiting United Way of Southwest Michigan
ST. JOSEPH, MI – The Whirlpool Appliance Sale will take place in-person and earlier this year Saturday, August 23 from 8am-4pm, and Sunday, August 24 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. This year’s sale is moving to the former Rosback building at 125 Hawthorne Ave in St. Joseph. The sale is open to the public and offers 300+ discounted Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir and Whirlpool brand ovens, ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, washers and dryers at significant savings. All major appliances are new with a full one-year
Bridgman CGA Secures $40,000 MEDC Grant to Propel Redevelopment Efforts in Bridgman
The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber and Growth Alliance (Bridgman CGA), an affiliate of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber (SMRC), has played a pivotal role in helping the City of Bridgman secure a $40,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Bridgman City Manager Juan Ganum said the grant will support a vital update to the City’s Master Plan and improve local development processes—important steps in Bridgman’s pursuit of Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC)
LIVE FIRE TRAINING TO TAKE PLACE AUGUST 5 – 7, 2025, AT SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Fire training with live burns will take place from approximately 8:00 a.m. until Noon on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, August 5 - 7, 2025, at the live fire training facility on the northwest corner of the airfield at South Bend International Airport (SBN). This training will not impact flight operations.Media escorts to the burns will not be available. About South Bend International AirportSouth Bend International Airport’s five air carriers provide nonstop flights to seventeen destinations: Atlanta,
2025 Cass County Kids Set to Receive Backpacks Filled with School Supplies from United Way of Southwest Michigan
CASS COUNTY, MI – United Way of Southwest Michigan is gearing up to ensure that every child in Cass County has the tools they need to succeed for the upcoming school year as part of School Supply Spectacular. The annual event is back for another year to provide free backpacks filled with essential school supplies to local students. Though registration for the event is now closed and all school supply recipient spots are filled, the media is still invited to cover this event. This year’s event will
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HYPE Returns: Shark Tank-Style Event to Empower Young Entrepreneurs in Southwest Michigan
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director jhansen@smrchamber.com https://smrchamber.com/hype/ (269) 932-4605HYPE Returns: Shark Tank-Style Event to Empower Young Entrepreneurs in Southwest MichiganEvent Set for Wednesday, November 19th at the Watermark Solarium in Stevensville FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 1st, 2025 SAINT JOSEPH, MI — The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, in partnership with Emerge Innovation Hub, is proud to announce the return of HYPE –
Watermark Brewing Co. Hosts 9th Annual Watermark Classic Presented by Honor Credit Union
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Chris Mason Co-Founder / Business Maneuverer chris@watermarkbrewing.com www.watermarkbrewing.com (269) 930-0380Watermark Brewing Co. Hosts 9th Annual Watermark Classic Presented by Honor Credit UnionEvent to Benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Michigan FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 30th, 2025 STEVENSVILLE, MI — Watermark Brewing Co. is thrilled to announce its 9th Annual Golf Outing - The Watermark Classic - presented by longtime community
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
