MICHIGAN WORKS! TO HOST FEBRUARY JOB FAIR
If you’re looking for a job, you’ll want to join Michigan Works! at their next job fair where an estimated 25 employers will be meeting with candidates to fill their open positions. The next event will take place on Tuesday, February 10 from 10:00 am- 2:00 pm at the Michigan Works! Service Center, located at 499 West Main Street in Benton Harbor. The last Michigan Works! hiring event brought 20 employers and 192 job seekers together, resulting in many on-the-spot interviews and filled positions. In
St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board President to Present $10,000 to the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran's Center
South Bend International Airport’s fourteenth annual Bears in the Air program raised $10,000 to benefit local Veterans residing at the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran’s Center on the campus of the Center for the Homeless. St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board President David Sage will present the $10,000 check to Lani Vivirito, Chief Resource & Veterans Services Officer at the Center for the Homeless, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The presentation will take place at South Bend International
For Immediate Release: Visit Southwest Michigan in Partnership with Mid-West Family Marketing and Me
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Marcy Simpson Executive Director Visit Southwest Michigan 269.925.6301 msimpson@swmichigan.org Visit Southwest Michigan in Partnership with Mid-West Family Marketing and Media Launches New Radio Station, 106.1 FM Official Launch and Ribbon Cutting Set for Monday, January 26 at noon FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 9th, 2026 SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN – Visit Southwest Michigan is excited to announce the launch of Visit Southwest Michigan Radio, airing on 106.1
MICHIGAN WORKS! ADULT EDUCATION HOSTS MATH WORKSHOPS THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF JANUARY
Whether you want to strengthen basic math skills, tackle tricky topics, or get ahead in class, you might want to consider attending one of the Michigan Works! math workshops hosted throughout the month of January. Join the Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren Adult Education team on any Tuesday or Friday in the month of January from 10 AM to 11:30 AM to scrub up on your math skills. These workshops offer clear explanations, hands-on practice, and helpful tips for adult learners. Walk-ins are
United Way of Southwest Michigan Invites the Community to Nominate a Volunteer for Leadership Awards
United Way of Southwest Michigan is once again seeking nominations of volunteers to receive recognition at our Annual Celebration, to be held on April 23, 2026 at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall in Benton Harbor. Two awards will be featured at the event: The Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award, and the Judge Susan L. Dobrich Volunteer Leadership Award for Cass County. Nominations for both awards will be taken through January 31, 2026
Kick off the New Year with New Exhibits at the Box Factory for the Arts
The Box Factory for the Arts presents its Series 1 Exhibit which showcases work from 14 regional artists exhibited on all three floors of the historic building. The public is invited, free of charge, to the opening to take place at the Box Factory on Sunday, January 18 from 1:30 – 3 p.m. The reception will include refreshments and a cash bar. The Williams Gallery, on the main floor, will feature Karen Sunman, from Kalamazoo, who does abstract paintings using acrylics and mixed media. Also showing in the
Tickets now on sale for Lake Michigan College Foundation Student Benefit Auction 34 presented by Sturgis Bank
The Lake Michigan College Foundation will host its Student Benefit Auction 34, presented by Sturgis Bank, at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7, in the LMC Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall on the Benton Harbor Campus. Tickets are now on sale for the black-tie optional event, which includes an evening of food, cocktails, live musical entertainment, and the opportunity to bid on various auction items.Since 1988, the Student Benefit Auction, which began as the Winner's Circle Auction, has raised funds to provide
Rising Kites Launches Community Partner Program Supporting Inclusive Employment and Families New to the Down Syndrome Community
Rising Kites has launched its Community Partner Program, inviting businesses to support inclusive, local employment for individuals with disabilities while helping families feel supported as they enter the Down syndrome community. Businesses can participate by selecting from a range of giving tiers, allowing companies of all sizes to engage in a way that aligns with their values and capacity. Community Partner support funds paid employment opportunities through Rising Kites’ workforce initiatives,
YMCA of Greater Michiana Kicks Off 2026 with $0 Join Fee Promotion
The YMCA of Greater Michiana is inviting the community to start the new year with a $0 Join Fee promotion available throughout the month of January, making it easier for individuals and families to access fitness, wellness, and community programs in 2026. Now through January 31, new members can join the YMCA with no joining fee using promo code JANFIT on the YMCA of Greater Michiana website, or in person at any YMCA of Greater Michiana branch. Membership provides access to a wide range of benefits,
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
Lake Michigan College offering a full slate of Extended Education courses in first half of 2026
Lake Michigan College's Extended Education program is offering an extensive lineup of classes throughout the first half of 2026 designed for career advancement, skill building, and personal enrichment. From professional certifications and workforce training to wellness programs and creative pursuits, the 2026 Spring schedule provides opportunities for learners of all backgrounds and interests. Classes are offered with flexible scheduling options including evenings, intensive one-day formats, and online
Wightman to Celebrate 80th Anniversary Throughout 2026
Wightman is preparing to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2026. Beginning in January, the firm will celebrate this significant milestone by launching a year-long celebration recognizing eight decades of partnership, innovation, and community impact across the Great Lakes region. Founded in November 1946, Wightman has grown from a small, local practice into an award-winning, multidisciplinary consulting firm known for its commitment to excellence in architecture, civil engineering, and surveying, along
Michigan minimum wage and unemployment benefit increases take effect Jan. 1
From the Michigan Chamber of Commerce: What's new: Michigan employers will face higher wage and benefit costs beginning Jan. 1, 2026, as both the state minimum wage and unemployment benefit caps increase under recently enacted laws. The big picture: The wage and benefit increases were passed despite the Michigan Chamber’s strong opposition under the Democratic trifecta in 2024.Michigan’s minimum wage will rise from $12.48 to $13.73/hour under the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act (IWOWA).
Lake Michigan College to Host Annual MLK Community Breakfast
Lake Michigan College invites the community to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the annual MLK Community Breakfast on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. in Grand Upton Hall at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center in Benton Harbor. This free community event will bring together students, leaders, and the community to honor Dr. King's vision and explore this year's theme: “Steps Toward the Dream." The morning will feature inspiring performances, meaningful student
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Village of Berrien Springs Wins First Place Award for Mechanic Street Improvements
The Village of Berrien Springs is proud to announce that the Mechanic Street Improvements Project has received First Place in the Transportation category ($500,000–$1,000,000) from the American Public Works Association (APWA) Southwest Branch, recognizing excellence in public infrastructure, transportation planning, and project delivery. The Mechanic Street Improvements Project was designed to enhance roadway safety, functionality, and accessibility while supporting long-term infrastructure needs in
United Way of Southwest Michigan and Whirlpool Corporation Donate Appliances to Emergency Shelter Services
United Way of Southwest Michigan recently donated over $3,000 of new Whirlpool Corporation appliances to Emergency Shelter Services in Benton Harbor. These appliances were from the recent online-only Whirlpool Appliance Sale that took place December 3-14 at whirlpoolappliancesale.com. Emergency Shelter Services released a statement about the donation that reads in part: Emergency Shelter Services Executive Director, Reshella Hawkins and Board Member, Amanda Rush extend their deepest gratitude to the
2025 SWMI & National November Housing Market dropped 2% in Sales from a Year Ago
“Heading towards the end of the year, the housing market in SWMI saw a drop in sales, with the average selling prices increasing by double digits over prices from a year ago. Selling prices continued to climb year-over-year in November for the last 4 years.” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries continued, “The number of houses sold in November decreased 2 percent (5 houses) from November 2024 (222 vs. 227). Year-to-date, sales have
Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees Names Dr. Ken Flowers as Next President
The Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees has named Dr. Ken Flowers as the College’s next president. Dr. Flowers brings more than 28 years of experience in higher education, academic administration, and workforce-aligned education. “Dr. Flowers’ leadership reflects the very best of Lake Michigan College,” said Joan Smith, Chair of the Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees. “His deep understanding of our students, our community, and the role community colleges play in regional economic vitality make
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Lake Time Brewing & Spirits Wins Gold at 2025 Great American Beer Festival
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Nancy Kiernan Bridgman CGA Director 269-285-2152 NKiernan@BridgmanCGA.org Lake Time Brewing & Spirits Wins Gold at 2025 Great American Beer Festival December 18, 2025 Bridgman, Michigan – The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance is thrilled to congratulate Lake Time Brewing & Spirits on earning a gold medal at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival (GABF) 2025 for its beer Astronaut Sauce in the “American Belgo-Style Ale”
Courtney Watts, CPA Announced as Kruggel Lawton CPA Newest Partner
Kruggel Lawton CPAs is pleased to announce that Courtney Watts, CPA, has been promoted to partner effective January 1, 2026. She brings extensive experience and leadership to the firm’s fiduciary tax services practice area, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering specialized expertise in complex tax matters. “The partner group is delighted to welcome Courtney as the newest partner at Kruggel Lawton,” said Managing Partner Barry Hall, CPA, CGMA. “She has been integral in the growth and development
$2.24M SECURED TO SUPPORT SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN EMPLOYERS
Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren has secured $2.24M in competitive grants from the State of Michigan’s Going PRO Talent Fund to help 45 local employers enhance their workforce. The grants awarded provide funds to local employers for training, developing, and retaining employees. “The Going PRO Talent Fund is still one of the most in-demand resources for Michigan employers,” said Michael Mompremier, Business Solutions Manager at Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren. “Investing in training
Antero Group’s Announces New Director of Engineering, Rachel Hill
Rachel HillAntero Group’s New Director of Engineering We’re excited to announce that Rachel Hill has joined Antero Group as our Director of Engineering. This is a key leadership role for the firm and reflects our continued investment in strengthening our technical capabilities. Rachel brings more than a decade of experience working on civil infrastructure and environmental projects across the country. She has led teams through feasibility, permitting, and design for municipal infrastructure,
Havlicek Appointed to Statewide Tax and Competitiveness Committee
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber 269-932-4042 info@smrchamber.com Havlicek Appointed to Statewide Tax and Competitiveness Committee Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber CEO to Represent Regional Business Interests in Michigan Chamber Policy Deliberations ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber announced that President and CEO Arthur Havlicek has been appointed to the Michigan Chamber of Commerce’s Tax
Cameron Schinck named Fall 2025 Lake Michigan College Spirit of Nursing Award Recipient
Cameron Schinck of Coloma has earned Lake Michigan College's highest student honor for nursing graduates, the Spirit of Nursing Award, recognizing him as the Fall 2025 graduate who best exemplifies the program's philosophy of excellence, integrity, and compassionate care.With his sights set on a nursing career, Schinck transferred to Lake Michigan College in Spring 2023 after a semester at Adrian College.“Health care and the human body fascinate me. Our bodies work in such amazing ways, so I wanted to learn
Village of Baroda Announces “Countdown on First Street”, A Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration in the Heart of Downtown
The Village of Baroda is thrilled to announce the inaugural “Countdown on First Street”, a brand-new community-wide New Year’s Eve celebration taking place on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in downtown Baroda. This first-ever, family-friendly event will bring neighbors, families, and visitors together for an evening of music, local flavors, winter activities, and a shared countdown as we welcome 2026 in true small-town style. The debut event highlights the vibrancy and collaboration within Baroda’s
SOUTH BEND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO DELIVER 2600 TEDDY BEARS TO CHILDREN IN FIVE AREA HOSPITALS 2025
South Bend International Airport’s (SBN) fourteenth annual Bears in the Air program is providing more than 2600 teddy bears to children in five area hospitals. The bears will be delivered by SBN’s CEO & Executive Director Mike Daigle and SBN team members the week of December 15, 2025, to Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital, Beacon Children’s Hospital, Elkhart General Hospital, and Saint Joseph Medical Centers in Mishawaka and Plymouth. Media is invited to the following deliveries: Monday, December 15:1:30
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
