98.3 The Coast

Meet Zena, a sweet, cuddly kitten with a big heart and a playful spirit. Zena is full of energy and curiosity, always up for a new adventure or a fun game, and her goofy antics are sure to bring a smile to your face. Friendly and affectionate, Zena loves making new friends and snuggling up once playtime is over. With her loving nature and charming personality, Zena is ready to fill her forever home with lots of laughter, love, and endless cuddles. Her estimated birthday is March 27th, 2025. She has started on her kitten-series of vaccines, tested negative for Feline AIDS and Feline Leukemia, and will be spayed when she is a little bit older. Reach out to Paws of Hope at [email protected] to learn more about Zena. The link to our adoption application is: https://www.pawsofhope.org/adoption-applicationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Bicentennial Bridge between St. Joseph and Benton Harbor will be closed all weekend due to mechanical problems, likely creating a traffic headache with tonight's fireworks in St. Joseph. However, St. Joseph Department of Public Safety Director Steve Neubecker tells us they have made adjustments to the traffic plan. Congressman Tim Walberg is praising U.S. House passage of a massive federal government spending bill that will slash funding to Medicaid and make permanent President Donald Trump's 2017 tax cuts.  Coming up July 19 at the Hartford Public Library will be a discussion on artificial intelligence and how it could affect the daily lives of everyone. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Bicentennial Bridge between Benton Harbor and St. Joseph will be closed to vehicular traffic until at least Tuesday, July 8.  The U.S. Coast Guard will be out in force around Lake Michigan this Fourth of July weekend to make sure everyone's being safe on the water.  State Representative Brad Paquette has spoken on the Michigan House floor in favor of legislation that would prohibit schools in the state from serving foods containing certain unnatural ingredients.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber has come out against two proposals that could appear on the November ballot statewide.  Several Van Buren and Cass County businesses have been honored for their work in the community with the fifth annual Market One Awards.  The OutCenter in Benton Harbor has held its first PrideFest in a location outside of the city after a new policy prevented it from booking Dwight P. Mitchell City Center Park on Saturday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: No one's getting any vacation time off this week at the Berrien County Sheriff's Department because it will have plenty to do with the Fourth of July on Friday.  The Benton Harbor Farmers Market is active again for the season, and it's been a big success in its first couple of days this month.  Coming up this weekend is the 66th South Haven Juried Art Fair. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The South Haven Police Department has identified a woman found floating in Lake Michigan near 20th Avenue in South Haven Township this week.  The city of Benton Harbor is likely to be asked to reprioritize some of the water system projects it has scheduled so that the most critical ones are completed before a state grant to pay for the work runs out.  While the pause on paid parking in St. Joseph remains in place, downtown business owners are hoping city leaders are sincere about listening to their concerns and making changes to the program. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education is inching closer to selecting a new district superintendent.  There's new ownership at the Benton Harbor Fruit Market, and it's hoping to expand the institution's reach in the community.  With a $19 million infrastructure project taking place this summer in Buchanan, many downtown businesses are finding new ways to promote themselves and attract customers as people avoid the area. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education is inching closer to selecting a new district superintendent.  There's new ownership at the Benton Harbor Fruit Market, and it's hoping to expand the institution's reach in the community.  With a $19 million infrastructure project taking place this summer in Buchanan, many downtown businesses are finding new ways to promote themselves and attract customers as people avoid the area. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

True to her name, Peach is as sweet as they come! This 8-month-old pup is all about cuddles, gentle tail wags, and playing a rousing game of fetch (bonus points if you cheer when she brings it back). She’s got a soft soul, a big heart, and an adorable way of leaning into you when she’s ready for snuggles. Peach is still figuring out the world and may take a moment to warm up to new friends but once she does, she’s all in. With a little patience and a lot of love, she’ll be your loyal shadow and favorite nap buddy in no time. Looking for a gentle, playful pup with heart-melting eyes and a love for squeaky toys? Peach is ready to pick you. She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated and is heartworm negative. If you are interested in adopting Peach, please visit Al-van.org/adopt and fill out an Al-Van Humane Society adoption application. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The South Haven Police Department is investigating an apparent drowning in Lake Michigan on Monday.  RyeBelles Restaurant and Bar in downtown St. Joseph will be allowed to host live outdoor music later into the evening this summer following action by city commissioners Monday.  St. Joseph Public Schools Superintendent Kristen Bawks will soon mark one year on the job, and she says it's been it's been an eventful one. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph is back open after police shut it down early again on Sunday due to fights.  A forum on preventing gun violence is set for this Thursday in Benton Township.  Not everyone's uncomfortable in the extreme heat we're experiencing this week. MSU Extension grape specialist Mike Reinke tells us crops actually do pretty well when it gets hot. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Southwest Michigan is expected to be hit with a heatwave this weekend and into next week with temperatures in the upper 80s, and everyone's reminded to take steps to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.  South Haven Area Emergency Services is asking the municipalities it serves to prepare for increased contributions as it seeks to hire more staff to address increasing call volumes.  Coming up this Saturday will be a presentation at the Hartford Public Library on the history of the Pottawatomi People in Van Buren County. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Five deputies with the Berrien County Sheriff's Department have been commended for their actions to save a woman's life this year.  Benton Township is seeking to develop a new senior housing complex.  The Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven is offering a rare chance to step into the role of a Great Lakes scientist with some expedition cruises coming up this month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The city of Benton Harbor is seeking some improvements at the St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Joint Wastewater Treatment Plant.  Coming up on July 12 will be the fourth annual Lake Breeze Music at Sunset Festical in St. Joseph.  The city of New Buffalo has put a pause on plans to implement a paid parking system downtown this summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Benton Harbor City Commissioners are excited to welcome the Jim DeLapa Collegiate Golf Tournament to the community this September.  The city of South Haven will be working with a project management firm to implement a lifeguard program following action by the city council on Monday.  An improvement project several years in the making is about finished at the Whirlpool Compass Fountain in St. Joseph. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Three finalists have been selected for second round interviews to be the next superintendent of Benton Harbor Area Schools. Benton Township has announced a new push to eliminate blight throughout the community.  The ribbon has been cut on the new Benton Harbor Fitness Court. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: A new invasive tick has been found for the first time in Michigan, right here in Berrien County.  The Berrien County Sheriff's Department is making upgrades to its jail bookings website.  Some upgrades are coming to the lighting at Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frankie is a 2-year-old Lab mix. He is neutered, microchipped, and up to date on his vaccinations. He weighs 44 pounds. Frankie is a comical, funny dog who will do anything for a treat. 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 our cute guy, Frankie!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: State Representative Pauline Wendzel has received an update on the effort to restart the Palisades nuclear power plant in Van Buren County.  The Berrien County Board of Commissioners is keeping its eye on developments in Lansing as lawmakers work on a new state budget. Berrien County Prosecutor Amy Byrd is working to reduce gun violence in the community by reminding gun owners how they can ensure their firearms aren't stolen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Trial Court's Family Division has launched a new online tool to help teens at risk of getting into trouble find the help they need. A student from Buchanan has been named the winner of Congressman Tim Walberg's 2025 Congressional Art Competition.  Set for this Saturday is the eighth annual Benton Harbor Juneteenth Parade and Celebration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Paid parking is currently suspended in downtown St. Joseph following an announcement Monday by City Manager Emily Hackworth. She explains to us what happened. Set for this Saturday is A Taste of Buchanan, a chance for everyone to take in downtown Buchanan and check out the dining options available.  Dredging could begin in South Haven this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Dredging tarts tonight in the St. Joseph Inner Harbor. Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education President Dashuna Robinson says the search for a new district superintendent has been going "amazingly smooth" so far.  Present Pillars in Benton Harbor is getting some attention in Lansing as it kicks off Dad Week this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Soula, our gorgeous Tortoiseshell Cat looking for her forever home! This stunning lady is incredibly people-friendly. She loves nothing more than curling up on a warm lap and receiving pets and scratches behind her ears. Despite her stunning looks, she is not high maintenance and is content with just being loved and cared for. Soula is also very playful and enjoys chasing after toys and playing with interactive puzzles. If you are looking for a loyal and loving companion, look no further than Soula. Give her a chance, and you will see just how special she truly is. Come to meet Soula and see if she is the purr-fect match for your family! Soula's estimated birthday is 11/01/2023. She is spayed, up-to-date on all vaccines, and tested negative for Feline AIDS and Feline Leukemia. Contact Paws of Hope at [email protected] to learn more about our stunning Soula. The link to the Paws of Hope adoption application is: https://www.pawsofhope.org/adoption-applicationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Dredging is about to start in the St. Joseph Inner Harbor.  The Benton Harbor Planning Commission has approved a site plan amendment for the new Harbor Shores Wee Course, the golf course for youngsters planned along Champions Way and Graham Avenue.  A new mural is being unveiled in downtown Buchanan tomorrow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: After weeks of mostly negative feedback from residents and business owners, the St. Joseph City Commission has approved changes to make city-owned lot parking in the downtown free to residents. The Benton Township Police Department is seeking the public's help to solve a possible hit and run case. Governor Gretchen Whitmer addressed the Niles Chamber of Commerce Thursday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County Sheriff's Department is planning to have at least two deputies on patrol at Silver Beach each day this summer to help ensure peace is maintained. Following fights that shut down Silver Beach County Park on Tuesday night, Sheriff Chuck Heit tells us the department is committed to keeping the attraction a safe place for families.  Van Buren County Sheriff Dan Abbott has been named the 2025 Sheriff of the Year by the Michigan Sheriffs Association.  Staff at the Cook nuclear power plant in Bridgman are gearing up for a major emergency drill later this month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Project T, a mixed use commercial and residential development planned for the site of the former Mercy Hospital in Benton Harbor, is a step closer to becoming a reality now that city commissioners have approved an amended Brownfield plan for the effort. Present Pillars in Benton Harbor is preparing to celebrate Dad Week next week, and it's inviting all families to take part to show Dad that he's appreciated.  An Andrews University student from Benton Harbor is making waves in the journalism world after receiving the Best Emerging Journalist Award at the 2025 Associated Church Press Awards last month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Congressman Bill Huizenga has joined more than 100 colleagues in the U.S. House signing a letter to appropriations leaders asking that there be a wage freeze placed on H-2A visa guestworkers in upcoming spending legislation.  The playground isn't the only new thing at Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph heading into the summer this year. As we've reported, the city of St. Joseph and Berrien County have been collaborating to improve the traffic flow into the attraction as we wait for the weather to warm up.  Edwardsburg High School's production of "Newsies!" led the way, taking home four awards, during the fourth annual WAVE Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theatre at Lake Michigan College this year.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The United Way of Southwest Michigan is making some adjustments to its funding cycle so it can better serve non-profits in the face of changing circumstances.  The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Luncheon on June 5, and there will be a special guest in attendance. Niles Chamber Director Ryan Boeskool tells us Governor Gretchen Whitmer will be the keynote speaker.  This is just a reminder that the Michigan Department of Transportation will hold an open house on the downtown St. Joseph Main Street reconstruction project Monday. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: St. Joseph City Commissioners may be making adjustments to the paid parking program downtown, but it looks like many downtown business owners still aren't satisfied.  The new mural to get people talking about mental health issues has now been finished at Paw Paw High School, and students and teachers are hoping it will keep a dialogue going among the community.  This Saturday will bring the Lake Bluff Artisan Fair to Lake Bluff Park in downtown St. Joseph, another returning tradition for the summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: A program of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is in the state spotlight as Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist on Wednesday announced more than $1.4 million in grants to five organizations to attract new residents to Michigan.  A student from Upton Middle School in St. Joseph was in Washington, D.C. this week to compete in the Scripps Howard Spelling Bee. Michigan Gas Utilities is introducing its new ambassadog to the community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety Director Dan McGinnis isn't mincing words about his problems with management at the Berrien County Juvenile Center.  No one was hurt, but a family was displaced following a Saturday afternoon car fire in Benton Harbor.  Planning is well underway for what may be Berrien County's fastest growing summer festival. The Berrien Springs Pickle Festival will once again be July 4 at the History Center at Courthouse Square. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: There's good news for kids who want to use the new playground at Silver Beach County Park in St. Joseph. Berrien County Parks Director Jill Adams told us Friday afternoon after about two years of work, they're about to open the attraction. Berrien County will have a little more in its coffers this year than previously expected thanks to an error discovered by Equalization Director Warren Parrish.  The Michigan Department of Transportation is suspending work and lifting traffic restrictions wherever possible this holiday weekend to ease congestion and increase safety out on the roads. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: 186 employees of Berrien County have gone from being represented by a union to being non-union.  Flowers Early Learning has announced the launch of a new early childhood education apprenticeship program. State Representative Brad Paquette has introduced legislation in the Michigan House prohibiting schools from serving foods containing certain unnatural ingredients. 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 could be asked to consolidate polling locations in order to save money. Benton Township Police Chief Greg Abrams has a proposal for township trustees. He addressed them this week to ask for permission to seek a grant to purchase and train a K9.  The Pokagon Band of Pottawatomi will hold a pow wow this Memorial Day weekend. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: A Van Buren County woman has been sentenced for murdering her husband in 2007. A setback to the Berrien Hills River’s Edge project on the site of the old Berrien Hills Country Club is being called a disappointment by St. Joseph Township leaders, but they say they're still excited that the first phase of construction is slated for next year.  The city of South Haven may have found a new developer for the former Overton property.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety has had a busy few days after it responded to two fires -- one of which it calls suspicious -- and a large illegal gathering.  May is Women's Health Month, and doctors are reminding women of all ages to take simple steps to ensure they stay healthy and don't let small problems turn into big problems.  Berrien County will hold a chemicals and electronics recycling event next month, and this time it's being hosted in southern half of the county. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Benton Harbor City Commissioners are being asked to make another emergency transfer of city income tax money into the general fund to pay the bills.  The Berrien County Board of Commissioners has learned more about how the county's opioid settlement money is getting used following a presentation this week.  Some renovations are being planned for the Berrien County Administration Building in St. Joseph.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for a cat with personality? Meet AC, a confident, chatty explorer who’s never met a shoulder he didn’t want to sit on. Yes, you read that right, this guy thinks he’s part parrot! AC is a social butterfly (or maybe a social tiger?) who thrives on attention. He’ll happily narrate his day to you with a symphony of meows and chirps, and he’ll return your affection tenfold. If you're not petting him, he’ll politely remind you, with his voice, his paws, or by suddenly being on your shoulder like it's totally normal. He's curious, adventurous, and always investigating his surroundings like he’s on a mission from Cat Headquarters. Whether it’s a new room, a cardboard box, or your unsuspecting back, AC is going to explore it. AC is the kind of cat who turns heads and steals hearts. If you're looking for a clingy little weirdo who’s equal parts hilarious and affectionate, AC might just be your perfect match. AC is neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and FIV/FELV negative. If you are interested in adopting AC please fill out an Al-Van Humane Society adoption application at al-van.org/adopt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Police agencies from throughout Berrien County gathered in St. Joseph Thursday to hold the annual Fraternal Order of Police memorial service for fallen officers.  A dedication ceremony for the newly improved Charles Yarbrough Park in Benton Harbor is planned for this Saturday. Lake Michigan College has garnered two national awards for its efforts to engage students in the 2024 election.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Lincoln Township Trustee Marc Florian is feeling optimistic something can be done to help reduce flooding in the area of North Grand Mere Lake following a meeting with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and state Representative Joey Andrews. St. Joseph City Commissioners have again balked at approving a policy that would grant city employees paid parental leave when they have a baby or adopt a child. Students at Van Buren Tech in Lawrence now have experience responding to a high-pressure emergency situation following Tuesday's mock disaster drill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has started dredging in the outer St. Joseph Harbor. Legislation from state Representative Brad Paquette would prevent food assistance programs in Michigan from paying for the purchase of soda, or pop.  Set for June 19 through June 22 is the second annual Sunflower Film Festival in Paw Paw. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: Corewell Health has announced the opening of a new substance use treatment and education center in Berrien County. State Representative Brad Paquette has introduced legislation intended to prevent children from accessing adult content on the internet.  The Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven has found a new director. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Selene is a 10-month-old unspayed female. She is microchipped and up to date on her vaccinations. She weighs 36 pounds. 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 pretty little Selene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's news: The Berrien County GOP has struck back against controversy over its engagement featuring some January 6 defendants and two men acquitted of charges in the kidnapping plot against Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Pope Leo XIV, the first American to be elected as pope of the Catholic Church, not only is from Chicago, but he has extensive ties to Southwest Michigan.  Several Southwest Michigan beaches have been nominated for the title of Best Beach in Michigan by USA Today, and the public is invited to vote for their favorite one. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.