by Eric Ringwelski | Oct 14, 2025 | Culture, People
Economic growth is at the core of nearly every local decision, and the next slate of local leaders will directly influence how our community attracts talent, supports small businesses, and invests in quality of place. As a regional economic catalyst, Southwest...
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 25, 2025 | People
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has reappointed Dr. Brandy Brown of Kalamazoo to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board, where she will continue her service as Chairperson. The appointment, announced in September, highlights Kalamazoo’s leadership on...
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 25, 2025 | Chamber Corner
Southwest Michigan First Chamber welcomed a full house to the first-ever Chamber’s Choice Small Business Conference and Celebration on Thursday, September 18 at Western Michigan University’s Dalton Recital Hall. In partnership with Varnum LLP, the afternoon gathered...
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 15, 2025 | Thrive
Looking for a place where you can grow your career and enjoy life? Welcome to Thrive in Southwest Michigan, a regional talent attraction campaign that’s putting our seven counties on the map as the place to live, work, play, and thrive. With support from the Michigan...
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 15, 2025 | First & 42 Original, People
It’s late June in downtown Sturgis, Michigan, and the streets are buzzing with the familiar rhythm of Sturgis Fest. The air is hot and heavy as vendors finish setting up their tents, some already open and selling local gifts and food. There’s a sense of anticipation,...
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 15, 2025 | Business, First & 42 Original
FIRST & 42 has a new look, a new home, and a sharper focus. After months of building, testing, and refining, today we are launching an updated website, refreshed branding and logo, and a cleaner newsletter that matches how Southwest Michigan reads and shares local...
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 15, 2025 | Culture, Places
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Michigan is hosting Paint the Town Green from Sunday, September 14 to Sunday, September 20, a weeklong awareness campaign that celebrates the power of mentorship. The focus is visibility and conversation, not fundraising....
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 14, 2025 | Sponsored Content
Hobby-Sports.com is celebrating 36 years in business with two days of customer appreciation fun. The party starts Friday, September 19, from 4 to 8 p.m. and continues Saturday, September 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests can enjoy giveaways worth more than $5,000,...
