PRESS RELEASE: GREATER NILES CHAMBER TO HOST 2026 STATE OF THE ECONOMY: NEW FACES, KEY PLACES
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber jhansen@smrchamber.comGREATER NILES CHAMBER TO HOST 2026 STATE OF THE ECONOMY: NEW FACES, KEY PLACESAnnual breakfast on December 2 brings together newly appointed leaders in education, county government, and the Chamber to share their outlook for Niles and Berrien County November 9th, 2026 Niles, Michigan — The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce will host its annual State of the Economy
Honor Flight Network Community Talk to Bring Veterans and Their Stories to The Loading Dock
The Loading Dock will host a special Honor Flight Network Community Talk on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., offering the community an opportunity to learn more about the organization's mission to honor America's veterans. Representatives from the Honor Flight Network will share the organization's mission, the impact of its work, and the unforgettable stories behind the journeys that bring veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and
Lake Michigan College Enrolls 14 Percent More First-time Students as Enrollment Shrinks at State Universities
Lake Michigan College (LMC) enrolled 14 percent more first-time college students this fall, while Michigan’s 15 public universities lost more than 5,000 students. LMC welcomed 501 first-time college students from 98 high schools and home-school programs, up from 458 a year ago. New transfer student enrollment rose 21 percent, returning students 11 percent, and students taking individual courses for personal or professional growth 45 percent. Altogether, 1,052 students are new to LMC this fall, up 17
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN’S LARGEST PRESCHOOL PROVIDER NAMES NEW CEO
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Ivette Bucio Communications & Engagement Coordinator ibucio@flowersearlylearning.org (269) 657-2581 x124 SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN’S LARGEST PRESCHOOL PROVIDER NAMES NEW CEO November 5th, 2026 SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN – The largest early care and education agency in Southwest Michigan has named a new leader for only the fourth time in its 54-year history. Kevin Wordelman accepted the role of Chief Executive Officer at Flowers Early Learning (formerly Tri-County Head
Honor Credit Union Welcomes Cody Barkowski as Community Development Officer
Honor Credit Union Welcomes Cody Barkowski as Community Development Officer BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 5, 2026 – Honor Credit Union is proud to announce Cody Barkowski as its new Community Development Officer, serving its Decatur, Dowagiac, and Paw Paw communities. In his new role as Community Development Officer, Barkowski will work closely with local businesses and community members to understand their goals and connect them with the financial guidance and resources needed to support
Wolf Financial Advisory Announces $25,000 Matching Pledge for Stuff a Truck
Wolf Financial Advisory is teaming up with Midwest Family for Stuff a Truck, pledging to match community monetary donations dollar for dollar, up to $25,000. The campaign benefits Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency (SMCAA), helping provide food and essential supplies to families in Southwest Michigan. Community members are invited to donate food, basic necessities or money November 16–21, at Roger’s Foodland in St. Joseph. Through Wolf Financial Advisory’s matching pledge, $25,000 in community
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN REGIONAL CHAMBER OPENS NOMINATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS FOR 2027 BUSINESS RECOGNITION AWARDS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber jhansen@smrchamber.comSOUTHWEST MICHIGAN REGIONAL CHAMBER OPENS NOMINATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS FOR2027 BUSINESS RECOGNITION AWARDS Chamber Seeking Public Nominations for Individuals and Businesses November 1st, 2026 ST. JOSEPH, MI – Think back on the past year. Which business grew, hired, or invested in a way that moved our region forward? Who opened their doors for the first time and quickly
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SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN REGIONAL CHAMBER OPENS NOMINATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS FOR 2027 BUSINESS RECOGNITION A
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber jhansen@smrchamber.comSOUTHWEST MICHIGAN REGIONAL CHAMBER OPENS NOMINATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS FOR2027 BUSINESS RECOGNITION AWARDS Chamber Seeking Public Nominations for Individuals and Businesses November 1st, 2026 ST. JOSEPH, MI – Think back on the past year. Which business grew, hired, or invested in a way that moved our region forward? Who opened their doors for the first time and quickly
The Box Factory offers Month-long Mini Exhibitions to Established & Emerging Artists
Every month, artists are invited to display their works in one of four Boutique Galleries at the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad Street. The Boutique Galleries are run by a small committee of Berrien Artist Guild Members, who have made it their mission to fill the Box Factory walls with the works of established and emerging artists. The length of the gallery displays varies, but they are typically a month-long. The committee takes informal applications via email to display art in these galleries, but
The Box Factory Presents an Evening of Holiday Stories, Songs, and Special Music Guests with Denise McGowan Tracy’s “Kickin’ Off Christmas Cabaret”
The Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St., is “Kickin’ Off Christmas” with a special evening of holiday stories, songs, and special musical guests from the world of musical theater, jazz, and more! Join us on Saturday, December 19, from 7-9PM at the Box Factory Stage for this intimate cabaret concert celebrating tradition, joy, magic, and the holiday season.Reserve your seats early for this concert with a nostalgic nod to the classic holiday television specials of the 1960s, which uplifted stars such
The Box Factory Makers Market Returns on November 28th with Artisan/Maker Booths on all Three Floors!
The Box Factory Makers Market will once again transform the Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad Street, into a three-story artisan marketplace on Thanksgiving weekend!The bustling market takes place as part of Small Business Saturday, from 9am–5pm on November 28. The Box Bar will be open for guests to purchase alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks; food and desserts will also be available. A $5 donation is suggested at the door; the event is free for children 18 years and younger accompanied by an
City of Benton Harbor Kicks Off Its 160th Year Celebration Campaigns
The City of Benton Harbor is launching two community-focused efforts as it marks 160 years of history, progress, and pride. The two-part campaign spotlights Benton Harbor’s 160-year history and invites residents to “chip in” by helping clean, care for, and strengthen neighborhoods across the city. The first effort will share stories from Benton Harbor’s past and present, highlighting the people, places, organizations, and moments that have helped shape the community over the last 160 years. Through
GREATER NILES CHAMBER NAMES MARTIN MECHTENBERG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber ahavlicek@smrchamber.comGREATER NILES CHAMBER NAMES MARTIN MECHTENBERG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Registered architect and experienced economic development professional selected to lead the Chamber's next chapter October 26th, 2026 Niles, Michigan – The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce and the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber (SMRC) today announced that Martin "Marty" Mechtenberg has been named
Lake Michigan College Recognizes Five Honorees at 2026 Alumni and Radde Achievement Awards
Lake Michigan College honored three alumni and two longtime community supporters Saturday, Oct. 10, at the 2026 Alumni and Radde Achievement Awards. The ceremony took place at 6 p.m. in Grand Upton Hall at the Mendel Center. Dr. Kenneth Flowers, ‘91, LMC president, opened the evening, and Board of Trustees Chair and Alumni Association President John Grover, ‘01, presented the alumni achievement and Gladys Peeples-Burks alumni serviceawards. “Their stories are our stories,” said Grover. “This college is
HALLOWEEN FESTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF OCTOBER 2026
St. Joe Today and participating businesses invite the SWMI community to enjoy two great Halloween events this October - Pumpkins on Parade and Halloween Trick-Or-Treat! SWMI businesses and restaurants will display their decorated pumpkins during Pumpkins on Parade, October 19-31. The community is invited to visit participating locations to view the pumpkins and vote for their favorite. Votes can be cast online at stjoetoday.com/voteuntil 11:59p October 30. The top three winners will be announced on
Lake Michigan College Marketing & Communications Team Earns Four Medallion Awards at NCMPR District
Lake Michigan College’s Marketing & Communications team has been recognized with four Medallion Awards at the recent National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) District 3 & 5 regional conference, including two gold awards. The NCMPR Medallion Awards are the premier regional competition recognizing outstanding marketing, communications, and public relations achievements at community and technical colleges within each of NCMPR’s seven districts. The awards honor innovative work across all
Allison Allman Named One of Moody on the Market’s Bold Women of Business
Kruggel Lawton CPAs is proud to announce that Allison Allman, CPA, has been selected as one of Moody on the Market’s Bold Women of Business. The Bold Women of Business award honors 20 women who live or work in the Southwest Michigan counties of Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren and are making significant contributions to their communities through growth, leadership, and innovation. The award program is administered by Moody on the Market and Mid-West Family Southwest Michigan. As a Senior Assurance
Lake Michigan College Theater Program to Present a Bold, Futuristic Romeo & Juliet
The Lake Michigan College Theater program will present a stark, near-future reimagining of Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet Nov. 12-15 at the LMC Mendel Center Hanson Theatre on the College’s Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave. Performances are at 7 p.m. Nov. 12-14 and 2 p.m. Nov. 15. Tickets are $15 general admission and $5 for students under 18. Tickets are available at www.TheMendelCenter.com/events. Shakespeare's most famous love story collides with a fractured America in the not-too-distant future,
Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Hosts Storytime This Tuesday
Children and families are invited to the Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Tuesday, October 20, at 6:30 p.m. for Storytime on the Flight Line, an evening of reading, aviation and creative fun. Guest readers will include Chokwe Pitchford, 3rd District Berrien County Commissioner; Miyah Michelle, Miss Benton Harbor 2026; Alex Little, Benton Harbor City Manager; Ardale Clark, founder of Beyond Limits Entertainment; and DaShuna Robinson, Benton Harbor Area Schools Board President. Local nonprofit Sisters From
Lake Michigan College to Offer Two AI-Focused Extended Education Courses for Area Professionals
Lake Michigan College is offering two non-credit Extended Education courses in November and December to help area professionals use artificial intelligence with more confidence and clarity in their daily work. Kathleen Curtis Wolf, a consultant, facilitator, and AI strategist, will lead each session at the Todd Center on LMC's Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave. Artificial intelligence has moved quickly from a niche technical tool to a resource used across nearly every profession. Still, many workers
Join us for the Series 6 Annual Member Show Opening Reception at the Box Factory for the Arts on November 6!
The Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad Street will be exhibiting our Series 6 Exhibition – the Annual Member Show – from November 6-January 10, 2027! The public is invited to our free-to-attend Opening Reception on Friday, November 6, from 5:30-8PM. Meet the artists on view, purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at the Box Bar, and grab some light snacks! This year’s exhibition theme is… “Now and Then!” over 300 Members were encouraged to exhibit one current artwork alongside a piece from
2027 LEADERSHIP ACCELERATOR APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Victoria Kostecki Program Manager Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Vkostecki@smrchamber.com smrchamber.com 2027 Leadership Accelerator Applications NOW OPEN! October, 15th,2026 St. Joseph, MI – The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, in partnership with Lake Michigan College and The Purpose Partners, is proud to announce that its Leadership Academy program, Leadership Accelerator, is now accepting applications for the 2027 Cohort. Designed for
Lake Michigan College Receives Gold-Level Certification for Serving Michigan Veterans
For the third consecutive year, Lake Michigan College has received Gold-Level certification as a Michigan Veteran-Friendly School from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Office, earning the top mark from the state agency. Colleges and universities are graded on seven important criteria for serving veterans, and the Gold standard is the highest certification available. Schools must offer services in at least six of the seven areas to qualify. "This designation recognizes your school’s commitment to creating
Rake a Difference Needs 600 More Volunteers by Friday So No Senior Is Left Waiting
United Way of Southwest Michigan is putting out an urgent last call for volunteers. Registration for Rake a Difference closes this Friday, October 16, and United Way still needs 600 more volunteers to serve every senior who has asked for help. So far, 350 seniors across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties have registered for the Thursday, November 12 event, with nearly half of those on the waitlist. Those seniors don't know yet whether a team is coming. United Way can't tell them until every volunteer
Comcast Business 2026 Cybersecurity Threat Report
A new Comcast Business Cybersecurity Threat Report found that artificial intelligence is accelerating the speed and scale of attacks across organizations and businesses of all sizes. Based on an analysis of 79.3 billion cybersecurity events, the report identified phishing and drive-by compromise attacks as the most common threats while highlighting the growing risks from stolen credentials, AI-driven attacks, and unmanaged devices connected to business networks. The findings underscore the importance of
Job Seekers and Prospective College Students Invited to Future Fair 2026
Lake Michigan College invites job seekers and prospective college students from the community to attend Future Fair 2026: Taking Flight. The free career fair and university expo will take place at the LMC Benton Harbor Campus on Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Room L310/311, above the library. Attendees are encouraged to bring a resume if they have one, though it is not required. Employers looking to fill open positions and make connections for future openings will be available to answer
Honor Credit Union Gives $20,000 to Michigan Educators Through 2026 Teacher Awards
Honor Credit Union Gives $20,000 to Michigan Educators Through 2026 Teacher Awards BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – October 14, 2026 – Honor Credit Union is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Annual Teacher Awards, marking 17 years of celebrating exceptional educators. This year, Honor recognized 40 teachers from its 27 branch communities across Michigan, awarding each a $500 digital gift card to enhance their classrooms, for a combined total of $20,000 invested in local education. Honor’s
Present Pillars Foundation Announces the 2026 Pillar Awards Gala: Fight Night
Present Pillars Foundation Announces the 2026 Pillar Awards Gala: Fight Night Powered by Indiana Michigan Power Foundation Present Pillars Foundation is proud to announce the 2026 Pillar Awards Gala: Fight Night – Step Into the Ring for Fathers & Families, presented by Indiana Michigan Power Foundation, on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Four Winds Casino South Bend. Indiana Michigan Power Foundation will serve as the event’s Heavyweight Champion, demonstrating its commitment to healthier fathers, empowered
Midwest Retailer, Glik’s, Celebrates 129 Years of Style
A retail legacy more than a century in the making is celebrating a remarkable milestone and you are invited! Glik’s, a family-owned specialty retailer established in 1897, is proud to celebrate 129 years of style, community, and family. Since its founding, Glik's has become a destination for customers seeking quality fashion apparel, trusted brands, and personalized service. In 1897, Joseph Glik took the next step in growing the business, moving beyond the horse-drawn wagon he had used to sell merchandise
More Than 400 Honor Credit Union Team Members Volunteer Across Michigan for CU Kind Day
More Than 400 Honor Credit Union Team Members Volunteer Across Michigan for CU Kind Day BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN – October 12, 2026 - On October 12, more than 400 Honor Credit Union team members will step away from their daily responsibilities to step up for their communities as part of CU Kind Day. CU Kind Day is an annual nationwide credit union movement that highlights the industry’s “people helping people” philosophy through volunteerism and acts of service in local communities. Across
Rivers & Roots Choir Concert to Feature LMC Concert Choir and MSVMA District 6 Middle School Honors
On Thursday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m., the Lake Michigan College Concert Choir, directed by Rebecca Derbas-Selvidge, will be joined by the Michigan School Vocal Music Association (MSVMA) District 6 Middle School Honors Choir, directed by Matthew W. Smith, for the Rivers & Roots Choir Concert. The program will celebrate through song the connection between the natural world and humanity. It will take place in the LMC Mendel Center Jenkins Theatre on the College’s Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave. Tickets
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 Honors and Celebrates the 2025 HYPE Winners
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jasmine Hansen Events Director jhansen@smrchamber.com 269-932-4605 Regional Chamber Honors and Celebrates the 2025 HYPE Winners November 20, 2025 Stevensville, MI – Southwest Michigan’s brightest entrepreneurial talent gathered at the Watermark Solarium last night for the second annual HYPE – Highlighting Young Professional Excellence. Hosted by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber in partnership with the Emerge Innovation Hub, this dynamic event
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
