98.3 The Coast

In today's news: A series of meetings is being held over the next three months for community leaders throughout Berrien County to discuss a mass transit plan now that the Michigan Department of Transportation has made it clear it wants a replacement to be created for the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority.  A Casey's General store is coming to Hartford. The Berrien County Parks Department is planning a Recycling Collection event for Saturday, September 13 at Silver Beach County Park.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lake Michigan College President Trevor Kubatzke says he's ready to retire after about 40 years in higher education.  Berrien County Commissioner Chokwe Pitchford has been caught up in a bit of confusion over a political endorsement.  To honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, the annual 9/11 Stair Climb is set for next Thursday at Lakeshore High School's Al Stockman Stadium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Lake Michigan College will hold an open forum next week as it prepares to search for a new president. The Michigan Department of Transportation is hoping to see the formation of a new transit authority to replace the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority within the next year or two. Present Pillars in Benton Harbor has announced the permanent closure of its headquarters on West Main Street.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly News from the Bear Den! segment from Kristen Bawks, Superintendent for St. Joseph Public Schools. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about what's new at St. Joseph Public Schools and what they're celebrating with students, parents, faculty, and the community! For more information, visit: https://www.sjschools.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Benton Harbor City Commissioners will soon be asked to reallocate $2.7 million in state grant dollars from use to another to allow for improvements at the water plant.  The city of South Haven is seeking funding from the state to help low-income residents pay for home repairs.  The Berrien County Board of Commissioners has approved a resolution to seek state funding for a new gun safety campaign.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is now discussing the possibility of creating a countywide transit authority as leaders at the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority seek help continuing bus services to residents. Cornerstone Alliance has officially launched a new study on housing availability in Berrien County.  Brandywine High School has earned second place out of 36 schools around Michigan in a student-led traffic safety campaign competition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: An effort to form a new transit authority in Berrien County to assume oversight of the Twin Cities Area Transportation Authority has been gaining some momentum.  The city of St. Joseph has accepted the donation park property from Whirlpool.  A small business in Hartford that's looking to expand has gotten a boost from Van Buren County. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Plans by Harbor Shores for new housing, commercial space, and a marina in St. Joseph have taken another step forward following action by city commissioners this week.  Lake Michigan College is hoping to dispell some misinformation about the millage renewals it's seeking from voters this year.  Coming soon to downtown St. Joseph will be a vendor tent operated by Chick-Fil-A. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly News from the Bear Den! segment from Kristen Bawks, Superintendent for St. Joseph Public Schools. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about what's new at St. Joseph Public Schools and what they're celebrating with students, parents, faculty, and the community! For more information, visit: https://www.sjschools.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor has officially celebrated the completion of its new Wee Course, a roughly five-acre golf course for beginners that will open for limited preview play Labor Day weekend.  Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad says there's a "housing revolution" taking place in the city as several developments are underway, about to get started, or recently finished. This past weekend's Whirlpool Appliance Sale for the United Way of Southwest Michigan is being called another resounding success. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Say hello to Rich! This handsome fella is a laid-back kind of guy who enjoys the finer things in life, like a good nap. While he does enjoy a rousing game of fetch, his bursts of energy are best described as enthusiastic but brief – quality over quantity is his motto! Rich is a sweet and friendly boy who loves people. He does have a bit of pep in his step when on leash and can pull, but with a little consistent coaching, he's sure to show you improved polite walking style. If you're looking for a loving companion who appreciates a relaxed pace but still enjoys some fun, Rich could be the perfect addition to your home! Rich is 80 pounds and approximately 5 years old. He was returned because his last owner was having surgery. In total he has been living the shelter life for almost a year! This latest stay has been 121 days. Rich ss waiting for you at Berrien County Animal Services at 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Present Pillars in Benton Harbor says all programing planned for its Pillar Center in downtown Benton Harbor is suspended due to problems with the building.  Van Buren County residents are being invited to take a new survey on what they'd like to see done with their parks system.  Point O' Woods Golf and Country Club is looking for some volunteers to help out with the first ever Jim DeLapa Collegiate, a premier collegiate golf event planned for the course next month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Board of Commissioners has honored several first responders and good Samaritans who helped save the life of a 20-year-old man who was electrocuted last month.  The Berrien County Board of Commissioners has formally approved a project agreement for the next phase of the Red Arrow Highway Linear Trail.  Bridgman City Manager Juan Ganum is moving on after nearly ten years on the job.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Schools around Southwest Michigan are anxiously awaiting news on the next state budget as lawmakers in Lansing continue negotiations.  The city of South Haven is granting some more time to a developer planning to construct some housing and commercial space downtown.  Four businesses in Southwest Michigan are helping residents in their area have access to healthier foods thanks to a partnership between the YMCA of Greater Michiana and Be Healthy Berrien. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Benton Harbor City Commissioners have signed off on nearly $5.5 million in capital projects at city properties.  The South Haven City Council has approved an electric rate hike while making some changes to the way electric rates are set for the municipal utility.  WK Kellogg Company, the maker of Fruit Loops and Rice Krispies, has agreed to remove some artificial food dyes from its cereals over the next couple of years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Michigan Department of Transportation is calling attention to the need for more road funding as more than 100 bridges around the state near critical status, including one in Berrien County. Two Stevensville residents are facing charges as part of an eight-month investigation into a fatal drug overdose.  The Van Buren Conservation District will be able to expand access to recycling services throughout Van Buren County with a new grant announced on Monday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly News from the Bear Den! segment from Kristen Bawks, Superintendent for St. Joseph Public Schools. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about what's new at St. Joseph Public Schools and what they're celebrating with students, parents, faculty, and the community! For more information, visit: https://www.sjschools.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here's Domino! She is a beautiful, extremely smart, and sweet tuxedo kitty with a playful and loving personality. Domino was keeping a secret when she first joined Paws of Hope... she was expecting! Our little Mama safely delivered her babies, nurtured them into loving homes of their own, and is now an "empty nester," ready for her own home. Domino enjoys affection, cozy spots, and spending time with her favorite people. Always ready for fun, Domino loves to play and explore, bringing joy and energy wherever she goes. With her charming looks and spirited nature, she is sure to brighten any home with love and laughter. Domino's estimated birthday is April 12th, 2024. She is spayed, up-to-date on all vaccines, and tested negative for FeLV-FIV. Reach out to Paws of Hope at [email protected] to learn even more about our smart girl, Domino! The link to our adoption application: https://www.pawsofhope.org/adoption-applicationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boone is a beautiful three year old Treeing Walker Coonhound. He is neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on all vaccines. Please call or visit the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan at 269-927-3303 (5400 Niles Road, St Joseph, MI 49085) to learn more about their handsome boy, Boone.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: A 73-year-old Cassopolis man is dead after a crash between a pickup and a tractor in Cass County on Wednesday.  As the Berrien County Road Department continues reconstructing Red Arrow Highway in the coming years, new sections of road will come with new sections of roadside trail.  South Haven High School will mark the 50th anniversary of its girls volleyball team this week with a special Alumni Match and cookout. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The 22nd annual Whirlpool Community Charity Golf Event, held this Sunday and Monday at multiple golf courses around Berrien County, has raised more than $3.2 million for five youth organizations in Southwest Michigan.  Engineering firm Abonmarche is planning a new apartment development in downtown Benton Harbor. Police are reminding everyone to be careful when crossing busy streets after a family of four was injured crossing Main Street in St. Joseph on Wednesday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The city of South Haven could be updating the way it sets rates for customers of the municipal electric utility.  The Berrien County Health Department will host some free overdose response training this month.  The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is bringing back its Shark Tank-style business pitch competition this year to help young business owners get support to continue growing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Some police officers and medics from the South Haven area have been honored by the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department for their actions during a standoff last month.  A state grant of $25,000 will help to renovate the former Stevensville Post Office into a new office for a graphic design company.  Indiana Michigan Power has announced a new contract with Google to help reduce stress on the electric grid during peak usage periods. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As heard on The Morning Show with Ken & Friends, this is the weekly News from the Bear Den! segment from Kristen Bawks, Superintendent for St. Joseph Public Schools. This podcast is your opportunity to learn more about what's new at St. Joseph Public Schools and what they're celebrating with students, parents, faculty, and the community! For more information, visit: https://www.sjschools.org/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Elections are being held in a handful of Southwest Michigan communities Tuesday. A gas station could soon be added to the Martin's Super Market property in St. Joseph Township.  Michigan's OK2Say school tipline received a record number of tips in 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce has ended its formal partnership with the South Bend Regional Chamber and is moving toward a partnership with the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber.  Citizens Research Council of Michigan President Eric Lupher was in Berrien County this week to highlight the "Ax MI Tax" proposal that backers are currently seeking to get on the ballot in the state next year.  It took a community of good Samaritans to safely resolve an incident on Lake Michigan near South Beach in South Haven on Thursday night. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Cornerstone Alliance welcomed Michigan Economic Development Corporation CEO Quentin Messer to Benton Harbor on Thursday to showcase some of the projects that have been transforming the community with the help of the state.  A resurfacing project is about to get started on Cleveland Avenue in St. Joseph.  The city of Buchanan is adopting a short-term rental ordinance to help ensure residential properties throughout town aren't bought up by those seeking to rent them out to vacationers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Project T in Benton Harbor is a go.  There's a new president and CEO at the helm at Berrien County Cancer Service.  This weekend will bring the return of Chalk the Block to downtown St. Joseph.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The city of St. Joseph is moving forward with a proposal to help generate revenue for improvements downtown.  Benton Harbor City Commissioners will be asked next week to approve the transfer of land owned by the city to the Benton Harbor Housing Commission so that the Harbor Towers apartment complex can qualify for federal improvement funds. Everyone's invited to Coloma this weekend for two days of fun with the Coloma Glad Peach Festival. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Now on the job as the new superintendent of Benton Harbor Area Schools is Dr. Simone Griffin, who started Monday.  Fruit crops in Southwest Michigan remain healthy despite the hot weather the region has been experiencing lately. says the region's crops are in "really great shape." The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services continues to urge COVID vaccinations for everyone age six months and older as recent recommendations coming from the federal government have caused some confusion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: A Berrien Springs farm has been awarded a $175,000 grant by the Michigan Commission on Agriculture and Rural Development to help with an expansion project.  The Salvation Army of Benton Harbor is planning a celebration for its 100th anniversary next month.  The South Haven City Council has voted to continue supporting Market One and the work it does to encourage economic development in the region for another year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Riverwood Center CEO Ric Compton is sounding the alarm about some upcoming changes to how the state manages behavioral health services.  Plans to develop the former Overton property in South Haven into housing have hit another delay.  A new invasive species has been found at the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery in Mattawan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Congressman Bill Huizenga has decided not to run for the U.S. Senate.  Dr. Simone Griffin will officially start as the new superintendent of Benton Harbor Area Schools on Monday, July 28.  Bond has been set at $2 million for a South Bend man charged in the shooting death of a woman in Niles Township this week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The city of Benton Harbor has received a statewide award for its community master plan. The Berrien County Sheriff's Department says a woman who was found dead in Niles Township on Monday had been shot, and her boyfriend is now charged with open murder in the case. The Hartford Public Library will be celebrating its 100th anniversary this Saturday with a special event. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Construction begins this week on the new Lakeshore Trail, a multi-use pathway along M-63 connecting Benton Harbor and St. Joseph to several parks and beaches along Lake Michigan.  FEMA and Michigan State Police will hold a briefing on the safety plan for the Palisades nuclear power plant next month.  The South Haven Regional Business Hub has announced the hiring of a new executive director. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the first round of medical debt forgiveness through a collaboration with the non-profit, Undue Medical Debt.  The next phase of housing construction is in the works at Harbor Shores as the development this week asked for a new brownfield plan on three parcels near Upton Drive, Whitwam Drive, and M-63 to help recoup some of the cost.  As downtown Buchanan businesses continue to struggle with a drop in customers due to major construction work going on in the area, the Buchanan Area Senior Center has launched a new promotion to help. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Michigan Department of Transportation has made a presentation to the Berrien County Board of Commissioners to explain its planned reconstruction of Main Street in downtown St. Joseph in 2027.  St. Joseph City Commissioners have recommended that Berrien County make some changes to the Brownfield plan for properties near Harbor Shores so new housing developments planned on those parcels can proceed.  The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber has announced the hiring of a director for the new Central Berrien Chamber Growth Alliance, or CGA. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Sheriff's Department Emergency Management Division and the Van Buren County Office of Domestic Preparedness are marking the successful test of the region's public alert system on Wednesday.  Benton Township leaders say residents will be better served now that a brand new, fully automated trash collection truck has been delivered to the public works department.  The Van Buren County Sheriff's Department is saluting some of its 911 dispatchers for their quick action to help others during severe weather back in May. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: City leaders in Benton Harbor say the fight for a terminated $20 million federal grant supporting clean energy and sustainability programs isn't over.  Now up and running for the season is the city of Benton Harbor's Summer Youth Employment Program.  Set for July 26 at Union Park in Benton Harbor is the Berrien County Health Department's third annual Dad’s Day in the Park, a chance for dads of all walks of life to bring their families, have some fun, and mingle with other dads.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Van Buren Youth Fair is now underway at the fairgrounds in Hartford.  It's mid-July, a couple of weeks past the Michigan Legislature’s deadline to approve a budget, and it's still nowhere near that point.  The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is highlighting a successful year of the Greater Bridgman Area Chamber and Growth Alliance, or CGA. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: New rules just approved by the Berrien County Board of Commissioners should help keep the peace at Silver Beach, but they'll also apply to all county parks.  Berrien County is receiving a little more in grant funding to help support development of the Lakeview Trail along M-63.  Congressman Bill Huizenga is expecting the U.S. House to get to work on Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills when it returns to Washington next week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Congressman Bill Huizenga says the "Big, Beautiful Bill" approved by Congress last week will ensure that major tax cuts approved in 2017 aren't rolled back while helping to rightsize the nation's budget.  The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety is warning everyone that vehicle thefts have been on the rise lately.  State Senator Aric Nesbitt has sent a letter to U.S. Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz requesting a federal investigation into a Michigan Economic Development Corporation grant awarded to a major donor to Governor Gretchen Whitmer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Lake Michigan College has secured a grant to help it set up a new system to help students in need of emergency assistance so they can stay in school and avoid falling behind.  172 artists from all over the country are coming to St. Joseph this weekend for the Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff, and that includes artists from right here in Southwest Michigan.  City leaders in Benton Harbor will be joined by Congresswoman Hailey Stevens, state Representative Joey Andrews, and the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission next week for an event to highlight work that's been done in the community to promote clean energy and environmental protection. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Benton Harbor City Commissioners have voted to purchase nine pieces of property that have been foreclosed by the Berrien County Treasurer's office before they're auctioned off by the treasurer this year.  The South Haven City Council is looking into the possibility of a service fee to pay for a lifeguard program.  The Krasl Art Fair on the Bluff is this weekend in downtown St. Joseph, and 172 artists are preparing to head to town for the event. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Sheriff's Department has released body camera footage of a deputy-involved shooting on June 30 in Niles Township.  The Bicentennial Bridge connecting Benton Harbor and St. Joseph will remain in its open position at least through Tuesday while MDOT waits for an out of state expert to arrive. A public meeting is set for July 17 for everyone to learn more about plans to reconstruct Red Arrow Highway in Lake Township this summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.