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Village of Berrien Springs Announced A New Era for Wolf's Prairie Playground at Grove Park
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jennifer Marren Community Engagement Coordinator 269-473-6921 ext. 5 cec@villageofberriensprings.com Village of Berrien Springs Announces A New Era for Wolf's Prairie Playground at Grove Park FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 6, 2026 BERRIEN SPRINGS, MI – On April 28, 2002, the Village of Berrien Springs opened Wolf’s Prairie Playground at Grove Park. For more than two decades, it has been cherished by the
Lake Michigan College Students Earn Top Honors in Statewide Writing Competition and Scholarship Recognition
Lake Michigan College students have achieved exceptional recognition in the 2025 Liberal Arts Network for Development (LAND) Creative Writing Competition, with three students earning top honors at the statewide level. The competition encompasses three genres—fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry— with students first competing at their home institutions before advancing to statewide recognition. Chloe Luneke earned first place in the Creative Nonfiction category for her essay "Backseat Prayers."
MICHIGAN WORKS! ANNOUNCES EMPLOYER LINEUP AT UPCOMING JOB FAIR - Feb 10
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
LMC students earn spots on Fall 2025 President’s, Dean’s Lists
Lake Michigan College has announced the names of students recognized for academic achievement during the 2025 Fall semester.There were 54 students named to the President’s List, achieving a 4.0 GPA at full-time status. The Dean’s List, meanwhile, includes 229 full-time students and 470 part-time students who achieved a 3.5 GPA or higher.President’s ListBarodaEllie BrownBenton Harbor Nicole ClarkHailey MercadoOlivia PrusaNoora ZaalBerrien SpringsColton DubuqueLily MorrowShiloh RosengrenMarina
Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance to Host Annual Meeting on February 26th
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Nancy Kiernan Bridgman CGA Director 269-285-2152 NKiernan@BridgmanCGA.org Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance to Host Annual Meeting on February 26th FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2026 Bridgman, Michigan – The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance (Greater Bridgman CGA) will host its Annual Meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Haymarket Taproom. The event will celebrate the organization’s accomplishments in
1st Source Bank Foundation Donates $100,000 to Support New Athletics Field at Lake Michigan College
Lake Michigan College (LMC) has received a generous $100,000 gift from 1st Source Bank Foundation to support the development of the College’s new athletics fields in the West Campus Athletics Complex, strengthening opportunities for student-athletes and enhancing campus facilities for the broader community. The contribution reflects 1st Source Bank Foundation’s continued commitment to education, student success, and community investment throughout Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana. The new
2025 SWMI & National December Housing Market
“Recapping the last ten years in the SWMI housing market we witnessed a rapid rise in sales from 2016 through 2019. Then in 2020 and 2021, with the stronger influence of Covid, finding more people working from home and home could be anywhere, created the peak years of homebuying since 2006. From 2022 through the end of this year (2025), house sales settled back to the same level as in 2014.,” stated Luke Jeffries, Association Executive, Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ® , Inc. Jeffries
Watermark Brewing Company Nominated for USA Today's Best Beer Garden 2 Years in a Row
Watermark Brewing Co. was just recognized by USA Today as one of the Top Beer Gardens in the Country, and with your help, we can take the #1 spot. Vote for Watermark at the link below(Voting is daily, so feel free to come back and vote again) If we end up bringing home the gold, you better believe we’re throwing an epic celebration in the beer garden to say thank you. As we kick off a new year and reflect on this nomination, we’ve been thinking a lot about the last ten years. How far we’ve come,
Center for Growth & Independence Softball Fundraiser to Celebrate 39 Years of Inclusion and Community Fun
For 39 years, a summer softball fundraiser in Southwest Michigan has brought the community together for one of the most unique community events in the area. The Center for Growth and Independence will host its annual Softball Fundraiser this summer at Eaton Park on July 25, 2026, continuing a long-standing tradition that began under the organization’s former name, GateWay Services.The event reflects the Center for Growth and Independence’s mission to promote inclusion and independence for individuals with
Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Receives Clean Financial Audit
The Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Authority has received a clean financial audit, reaffirming the airport’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management.During the Airport Authority’s regular board meeting on January 22, 2026 Airport Director Christopher Beckman announced that the Authority’s independent auditors issued an “unmodified and clean” opinion on the airport’s financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. A clean audit opinion indicates
Dan Ripke Trio Brings Madcat Ruth and James Bourland to Americana Revue at the Box Factory
The Box Factory for the Arts presents Dan Ripke’s Americana Revue Trioon February 7, 7-9PM. The Americana Revue Acoustic Show is a musical journey through the backroads, mountains, cities, and fields where American roots music was born. Tickets in advance at ticketstripe.com/Americana-Revueare $15 general admission; $20 cabaret seating; $20 at the door. Free admission for children 12 and under. A cash bar will be available. From the hollers of Appalachia to the dusty highways of Texas, this show
Women’s Service League Announces 2026 Charity Ball Benefiting New Heights CCDA
Women’s Service League (WSL) has announced that New Heights Christian Community Development Association, Inc. (New Heights CCDA) has been selected as the beneficiary of the 2026 Women’s Service League Charity Ball, to be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 6:00–10:00 p.m. at Union + Social, 216 Court Street, St. Joseph. The annual Charity Ball brings together community members for an evening of dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction, raising critical funds to support local nonprofit
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A WEEKEND OF FROSTY FUN DURING THE 2026 ICE FEST, FEBRUARY 6-8
St. Joseph Mich., is renowned as a four-season water wonderland, with Lake Michigan and nearby rivers and inland lakes. This time of year, the city’s focus turns to frozen water during the 2025 Ice Fest. Presented by Silver Beach Pizza, February 6-8. Professional ice carving, Ice Wars, a Scavenger Hunt and Ice Interactives are just some of the reasons to bring family and friends to this frosty, fun-filled weekend. “This event is the perfect antidote to the winter blues,” Executive Director, Paul Knapp
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Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Welcomes Gym Rat Performance and Wellness with Open House and Ri
For Immediate Release Media Contact: James Morris Doctor of Physical Therapy | Owner james@gymratpw.com (269) 999-4508Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Welcomes Gym Rat Performance and Wellness with Open House and Ribbon Cutting Celebration FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 26, 2025 STEVENSVILLE, MI — The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is pleased to welcome Gym Rat Performance and Wellness to the regional business community with a special Open House and Ribbon Cutting
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Honor Credit Union’s 2025 Community Impact Year-In-Review
Honor Credit Union’s 2025 Community Impact Year-In-Review BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN— January 21, 2026— As a not-for-profit financial institution, giving back to the members and communities it serves has been part of Honor Credit Union’s mission for more than 90 years. The 2025 Community Impact Summary reflects another year of meaningful investment in people, organizations, and communities across Michigan and Northern Indiana. Rooted in putting people first since its beginning, Honor continues to focus
United Federal Credit Union Strengthens AI Strategy with New Director of AI & Data Science Role
United Federal Credit Union (United) is proud to announce the promotion of Mitch Speer to Director of AI & Data Science, a newly created role which underscores United’s commitment to innovation and member-focused solutions. Speer, who joined United in 2023, has been instrumental in advancing data-driven strategies and implementing AI‑powered tools that enhance member experience and improve data transparency across the organization. In his new role, Speer will lead the development and execution
LMC Visual & Performing Arts Department announces “Big Fish” musical, Jazz Fest, and More in Spring Performance Series
The Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department will present more than a dozen student performances during the Spring 2026 semester. All events will be held in the LMC Mendel Center on the Benton Harbor Campus, 2755 E. Napier Ave. Feb. 27 Student Music Recital, Hanson Theatre, noonMar. 1 Vocal Showcase, Hanson Theatre, 2 p.mMar. 26-28 Spring musical “Big Fish," Jenkins Theatre, 7 p.m.Mar. 29 Spring musical “Big Fish," Jenkins Theatre,
Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Announces 2026 Business Recognition Breakfast Award Nominees
For Immediate Release Media Contact: Arthur Havlicek President & CEO info@smrchamber.com 269-932-4042Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber Announces 2026 Business Recognition Breakfast Award Nominees FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 20, 2025 St. Joseph, MI – The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is proud to announce the nominees for their annual Business Recognition Breakfast Awards Ceremony & Annual Meeting, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Corewell Health, Honor Credit Union
Lake Michigan College Seeks Nominations for 2026 Alumni Awards
Lake Michigan College is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Alumni Awards, honoring graduates who exemplify excellence in service, professional achievement, and community impact. The Alumni Association Board of Directors encourages colleagues, friends, and community members to recognize deserving alumni who have made a meaningful difference. Nominations are due June 15, 2026, with recipients to be announced this fall. To be eligible, alumni must have graduated from LMC or its predecessor,
Edgewater Automation Celebrates 25 Years of Growth, Partnership, and Purpose
Edgewater Automation is proud to celebrate its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter century of designing, building, and delivering advanced automation solutions that help customers solve complex manufacturing challenges. Founded in January 2001 by Rick Blake in St. Joseph, Michigan, Edgewater Automation began with five employees working out of a 10,000-square-foot facility. The company steadily expanded its capabilities and reputation through engineering excellence, hands-on execution, and a deep knowledge
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CHILI TOUR RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN ST. JOE, JANUARY 30
Whether visitors like their chili mild, sweet or fiery hot they will find more than 20 ways to chase away the winter chill during the return of the annual Chili Tour on January 30. The event takes place from 5:00p-8:00p in downtown St. Joe. Participating businesses and restaurants will offer samples of their favorite chili recipes in hopes of earning the People’s Choice Award, determined by popular vote, or the Chili Pepper Award, determined by a panel of judges. "For a $5 fee, you can obtain a map
COMPETITIVE EDGE HONORED AS 2026 PPAI PYRAMID AWARD WINNER
Competitive Edge has been named a 2026 Promotional Products Association International Pyramid Award winner. The Pyramid Awards are presented by PPAI to recognize impactful work in the promotional products industry, with an emphasis on collaboration with measurable results. CE was honored with a Silver award in the Client Programs - Employee Incentive and Recognition Programs category. This category highlights programs developed through the client-distributor relationship that encourage and reward adherence
Berrien Community Foundation Grant Brings Professional LED Technology to LMC Theater Students
Lake Michigan College theater students will be immersed in the bright lights of the big stage – literally – thanks to a For Good Major grant recently awarded to the College by the Berrien Community Foundation with support from Ann Marie Marlow. The $11,800 award will fund the rental of large-scale LED video wall panels and digital scenery for a professional-level theater experience during the March production of the musical “Big Fish,” presented by the LMC Visual & Performing Arts Department. The panels
Berrien Community Foundation Grant Brings Professional LED Technology to LMC Theater Students.
Lake Michigan College theater students will be immersed in the bright lights of the big stage – literally – thanks to a For Good Major grant recently awarded to the College by the Berrien Community Foundation with support from Ann Marie Marlow. The $11,800 award will fund the rental of large-scale LED video wall panels and digital scenery for a professional-level theater experience during the March production of the musical “Big Fish,” presented by the LMC Visual & Performing Arts Department. The panels
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Honor Credit Union Opens Applications for ?16th Annual Scholarship Program
Honor Credit Union Opens Applications for 16th Annual Scholarship Program BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN — January 13, 2026 — Honor Credit Union is proud to continue its longstanding tradition of supporting education through its 2026–2027 Community Commitment Scholarship Program. Now in its 16th year, the program will award $30,000 in scholarships to 12 graduating Michigan high school seniors making a positive impact in their communities, with $2,500 awarded to each student. Education has been at the
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
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
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
