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.