Local News Archives

Man Shot in Berrien Springs Break-In

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An Oronoko Township man is expected to fully recover after police say he was shot last week during a break-in to his home. The Berrien Springs-Oronoko Township Police Department was called out to 221 East Snow Road around 10:20 a.m. Friday when Travis Donnell Eidsness reported he’d been shot in the shoulder. When they got there, police were told three black males had appeared at the front door asking to use the phone. After a short conversation, one of the men pulled a handgun and there was a struggle. That’s when Eidsness was shot. He ran to a neighbor’s house while the suspects all took off. Police are still looking for the suspects. They don’t believe the attack was random, telling us it looks like the suspects specifically targeted that home.. ...Read Full Story

ESPN’s College GameDay Coming To WMU

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There are just two undefeated football teams left in NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision – Alabama and Western Michigan. The Crimson Tide remain ranked number-one in the AP poll and the “USA Today”/Amway Coaches Poll, while WMU isn’t getting the same amount of respect from the voters yet. The Broncos are 14th in the latest AP poll and 21st in the coaches poll. ESPN, however, will recognize the outstanding season by the Broncos this weekend. The network will broadcast its flagship “College GameDay” program on Saturday from Kalamazoo at 9 a.m. at Sangren Pedestrian Mall on campus. Fans are encouraged to start showing up around 6 a.m. for the program. WMU hosts Buffalo on Saturday at 3:30 p.m., with the game to be televised on ESPNU.. ...Read Full Story

Traverse City Officer Suspended Ater Diving With Confederate Fag

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A northern Michigan police officer has been suspended with pay after he was seen off-duty driving a pickup truck bearing a Confederate battle flag around a group protesting Republican Donald Trump’s election as President. Traverse City police Chief Jeff O’Brien announced Michael Peters’ suspension Sunday after earlier saying an internal investigation was to start Monday to see if departmental rules were broken.. ...Read Full Story

MDOT Puts Completion Of US-31 Into 5-Year Plan

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The Michigan Department of Transportation has added the completion of the US-31 corridor to its five year construction plan. State Representative Al Pscholka has been working on getting MDOT to commit to the project for years, and tells us he’s relieved US-31 will finally be connected to I-94. He’s always asked about it.. ...Read Full Story

Flint Posts Water Shutoff Notices On Commercial Properties

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Flint says water shut-off notices are being posted by city employees on commercial properties with past-due utility accounts. Friday’s efforts follow months of work by the city to obtain payment on commercial water and sewer accounts with high outstanding balances. It’s part of
a state requirement to maintain water credits being provided amid Flint’s crisis with lead-tainted drinking water. Flint says police officers will accompany those posting notices. The notices are being put up at a number of locations in Flint, including apartment complexes. The city says some owners of apartment buildings have been collecting rent, which includes utility fees, but they haven’t been paying the city for sewer and water service. Representatives from the Red Cross and United Way will be available next week to offer assistance, if needed.. ...Read Full Story

Y-Country Stuff A Truck Food Drive Next Week

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It’s time once again for 97-5 Y-Country’s Stuff a Truck food drive. The week-long effort starts Monday, and it’ll have Y-Country staff broadcasting live from Roger’s Foodland in St. Joseph alongside a 23-foot truck, stuffing it with things people donate. Y-Country’s Matt Malone tells WSJM News it’s the 20th year for the drive.. ...Read Full Story

Firearm Deer Season Starts Tuesday

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Firearm deer hunting season starts Tuesday, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding those who plan to head out into the woods to be safe. It’s issued a quick list of tips to be sure this hunting season is a successful one. First, it’s telling hunters to treat every firearm as though it’s loaded. Keep the safety on until you’re ready to fire and never point the muzzle toward anyone. Also, use a safety harness if you’re up in a tree blind, make sure someone knows just where you’re going to be, and have a cell phone with you. The DNR adds that camouflage hunter orange is legal provided 50% of the pattern is hunter orange. Meanwhile, utility companies remind hunters their property is off limits. You can get the DNR’s app, MI-Hunt, that’ll tip you off to good hunting spots around the state.. ...Read Full Story

Adoption Day To Be Celebrated In Van Buren County

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The van Buren County Circuit Court will hold a special ceremony this month to mark Adoption Day. At 10 a.m. on Tuesday the 22nd, Michigan Supreme Court Justice Stephen Markman will be on hand to oversee some adoption confirmations at the court. There are about 13,000 children in the Michigan foster care system, with around 2,400 seeking adoption. Each year, Adoption Day is held around the state to recognize their plight and to celebrate those families that choose to adopt. Anyone interested in signing up to be a foster home can call the Van Buren County Department of Health and Human Services.. ...Read Full Story

Van Buren Road Commission Marks 100 Years

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The Van Buren County Road Commission has marked its 100th birthday. The agency was founded in 1916 under a 1912 state law calling for uniformity in road standards statewide, and it’s changed quite a lot since then. The road commission welcomed the public to a party last week where it showed off historical photographs, and let people put their hand print on a special 100th anniversary plow. The road commission started out with just one employee, and today has about 50 who care for more than 1,3000 miles of road. Leaders are thanking all of the friends and family who came out to the birthday celebration.. ...Read Full Story

MI Senate Approves Energy Policy

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The Michigan senate has approved a long-awaited energy policy. State Representative Aric Nesbitt, of Lawton, is the chair of the House Committee on Energy Policy, and has led the charge on the package. He tells WSJM News the plan is about making sure the state relies on a wide array of energy sources.. ...Read Full Story

Police Investigating Rash Of Thefts From Cars

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The Berrien County Sheriff’s Department is working to solve a wave of thefts from parked cars. It says the reports of items being stolen from vehicles have come in all month long from Berrien, Buchanan, Watervliet, Hagar, and Royalton Townships. There’s been about 40 of them. In most of the cases, the vehicles were unlocked, and the thefts happened overnight. Police remind you to lock your car doors and not to leave anything valuable inside the car overnight. If you see anything suspicious, call police.. ...Read Full Story

Crash Backs Up I-94

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Emergency crews are now working to clear the scene of a crash on eastbound I-94 that has backed up the road all the way from I-196 to Benton Harbor. Berrien County Central Dispatch tells us the call came in around 4:40 p.m. Friday when one semi hit another. There were no injuries. Michigan State Police are investigating.. ...Read Full Story

Hundreds Around Michigan Protest Election Results

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Hundreds of people gathered at Michigan State University to protest hateful political rhetoric and promote unity following the presidential election. The East Lansing event Thursday was organized by the MSU College Democrats as a way to come together after the election. Organizers say it wasn’t intended as a protest against President-elect Donald Trump. As the crowd dispersed, some protesters gathered at the MSU Union. The Lansing State Journal reports police locked the building’s doors to keep people from staying inside. No arrests were reported. In Grand Rapids on Thursday night, hundreds of anti-Trump protesters marched through downtown. And in Detroit, hundreds marched from Wayne State University to protest Trump’s election. It was the second day of postelection protests in Michigan. On Wednesday, protesters rallied in Detroit and Ann Arbor.. ...Read Full Story

Two Bicyclists Hospitalized After Hit-And-Run Crash Near Kalamazoo

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Authorities say two bicyclists have been taken to a hospital with injuries following a hit-and-run crash near Kalamazoo. The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Department says a pickup truck hit the bicyclists on Thursday night in Alamo Township. The department says the two injured bicyclists were among four bicyclists involved. Injuries were described as non-life-threatening. Investigators say the truck has front passenger-side damage. Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff’s department. In June, a motorist plowed into a group of bicyclists with his pickup truck, killing five and injuring four, in Kalamazoo County’s Cooper Township, which is nearby. On Monday, a judge ordered Charles Pickett Jr. to trial on second-degree murder charges in that case.. ...Read Full Story

Michigan, Flint Ordered To Make Home Water Deliveries

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A federal judge has ordered the state of Michigan and the city of Flint to deliver bottled water to lead-tainted homes under certain conditions. Judge David Lawson granted an injunction Thursday sought by the American Civil Liberties Union and Natural Resources Defense Council. They’ve argued that many residents can’t get to water distribution sites or have other challenges. Flint residents are urged to use bottled water or filtered tap water while the city’s water system heals from lead contamination. Corrosive water from the Flint River wasn’t treated properly for 18 months. Flint has free water distribution sites, but the judge says some residents still “are encountering great difficulty.” Lawson says home delivery isn’t required if officials verify that a filter has been properly installed and maintained. Residents also can decline delivery.. ...Read Full Story

Medal Of Honor Possible For South Haven Man

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A South Haven man is in line to receive the nation’s highest military honor for his acts of heroism during the Vietnam War. Congressman Fred Upton and Michigan’s U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters have introduced legislation to make James “Doc” McCloughan eligible for the Medal of Honor. He is credited with saving the lives of 10 members of his platoon during the Battle of Nui Yon Hill from May 13-15, 1969. In a statement, Upton says McCloughan is “no doubt” an American hero, and his recognition is long overdue. Medal of Honor recipients must be honored within five years of their actions, but the Defense Department has recently recommended the recognition for the South Haven native. During his service, McCloughan was highly decorated and received multiple honors that include the Combat Medical Badge, two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars with “V” device for valor, and more.. ...Read Full Story

Doctors Remind Michiganders Of Diabetes Dangers

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During this National Diabetes Awareness Month, doctors are reminding everyone of the warning signs of the disease, as well as how you can avoid it. Vascular surgeon Dr. Gary Gibbons tells our newsroom 29 million Americans have diabetes, including almost 800,000 in Michigan. Lifestyle choices can affect whether you get it.. ...Read Full Story

Many Perks Offered To Veterans Tomorrow

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Friday is Veterans Day, and there will be plenty of chances for Berrien County vets to receive a special thank you. Martin’s Supermarkets, for example, are serving up free meals to veterans from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Just head over to the Martin’s deli and you’ll get fried chicken. The Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo also has something planned, as veterans and one guest each can get a 50% discount on meals at the buffet. Applebee’s, Chili’s, and Texas Corral are offering free meals for veterans, while IHOP has free stacks of red, white, and blue pancakes. If you’re a veteran, or just someone looking to take a veteran out for lunch or dinner, you can call ahead and find most places have some kind of a deal. In all cases, it’s important to remember to bring along proof of military service.. ...Read Full Story

Edmund Fitzgerald Remembered Today

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The Great Lakes area is remembering the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy, 41 years after the boat sank amid a furious storm on Lake Superior. The Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City is one of several places that held a memorial today. For good reason, says academy superintendent Jerry Achenbach, who’s spent his career on the water.. ...Read Full Story

MI companies On Trade Mission To China

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Several Michigan companies, including the Michigan Blueberry Growers and Naturipe out of Grand Junction are introducing themselves to China this week. Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Jamie Clover Adams is leading her first food and agriculture trade mission to the country with the goal of the introducing Michigan companies to the ever growing and expanding Chinese market. Adams says Michigan already has a good relationship with China.. ...Read Full Story

Upton: Still Lots To Do Before Lame Duck Ends

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There may have just been a big election, but that’s no reason for Congress to step away from its responsibilities. That’s the belief of Congressman Fred Upton, who tells WSJM News one of the big things to be done in the lame duck session is the final approval of his 21st Century Cures legislation. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said that will happen.. ...Read Full Story

BH City Commissioners Approve Budget Amendment

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A $65,000 budget amendment sought by Benton Harbor City Manager Darwin Watson has been approved by the city commission. At Monday’s meeting, Commissioner Duane Seats wanted to know how there could have been a $65,000 underestimation for what would be needed by police for overtime. He opposed the amendment saying someone should take responsibility. Mayor Marcus Muhammad said the adjustment had to be approved.. ...Read Full Story

Chikaming Twp Culvert Work All Finished

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The $1.4 million replacement of a culvert on Red Arrow Highway in Berrien County is now done. The Berrien County Road Commission this week celebrated with a ribbon cutting. The project to replace the nearly 80-year-old culvert near Cherry Beach Road in Chikaming Township began in August. It was originally slated to start in April, but local businesses complained it would damage the busy tourist season. So, the road commission agreed to the delay. The work meant the closure of Red Arrow Highway between Three Oaks Road and Warren Woods Road for several months. Traffic in the area is now back to normal.. ...Read Full Story

South Haven Health Systems Becoming Part Of Bronson

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South Haven Health Systems will now be called Bronson South Haven. That’s after voters this week approved making SHHS part of Bronson Healthcare. The move is designed to make the South Haven entity better able to provide care to patients in the long term. The South Haven Health Systems Board of Trustees announced its plans with Bronson back in April, but it had to clear voter approval. This week, that happened with 89% of the public voting yes. SHHS President Joanne Schroeder says the move will ensure “strong, local healthcare for our community for years to come.” The transition will take effect on January 1.. ...Read Full Story

GM Cutting About 2,000 MI Jobs

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General Motors is cutting shifts at two plants, eliminating about two thousand jobs. The Lansing Grand River Plant builds Camaros and Cadillacs. The Lordstown plant makes the Chevy Cruze small car. AutoTrader analyst Michelle Krebs says this comes as sales of those products have been declining.. ...Read Full Story

Snyder Ready To Work With Trump

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Governor Snyder says he’ll be working to improve Michigan’s relationship with the White House under a Donald Trump presidency. Snyder points out that Trump and Hillary Clinton made numerous stops here during the campaign. And he expects jobs to part of that conversation with president-elect Trump.. ...Read Full Story

Voters Approve LMC Millage Request

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Voters have approved Lake Michigan College’s millage request. It was a close one, but in the end, the millage passed by about 680 votes. LMC President Dr. Bob Harrison tells WSJM News it’s gratifying to get the public’s support. Now that the money is secured, detailed planning for building improvements and course offerings begins.. ...Read Full Story

Upton Congratulates Trump

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Congressman Fred Upton has congratulated President-elect Donald Trump. The St. Joseph Republican stayed out of the race for president, not endorsing Trump. However, following Trump’s surprise and decisive victory Tuesday Upton issued a statement saying that he’s willing and able to work with whoever was elected. Upton also says the voters “have clearly spoken,” adding it’s time to put divisiveness behind and work toward common goals.. ...Read Full Story

School Board Candidate Gets Wish, Loses Election

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Bridget Smith wanted voters not to elect her to Frankenmuth’s school board — and they didn’t. Smith filed earlier this year to run for one of three four-year terms on the school board, but afterward was hired to serve as Frankenmuth’s city manager. When she was being hired by the Bavarian-themed community about 75 miles northwest of Detroit, Smith indicated that she would drop her school board bid. But the deadline to withdraw had passed and her name remained on Tuesday’s ballot.She encouraged voters not to cast ballots for her and Smith placed last among
the four candidates.. ...Read Full Story

MI Judge Seeking To Beat Age Limit Loses

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A judge seeking to get around Michigan’s age limit by challenging another judge has lost an election in Livingston County. But Carol Sue Reader won’t be out of a job. She’ll still remain on the county’s District Court through 2018. Reader challenged fellow Judge L. Suzanne Geddis in the election Tuesday. Geddis was elected to another six-year term by a comfortable margin. Under the Michigan Constitution, judicial candidates can’t run if they’re 70 or older. That restriction disqualifies Reader in 2018, so she tried to get Geddis’ seat before hitting the age limit. Geddis said it all seemed “greedy.” The judges appeared together during the final weeks of the campaign season, sparring over temperament and other issues.. ...Read Full Story

Grand Rapids-Area Voters Approve Tax Increase For Zoo, Museum

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Kent County voters have supported a proposed tax increase to help fund a zoo and a museum. Preliminary results from Tuesday’s vote show the proposal passing to boost the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The Grand Rapids Press reports the tax will generate about $8.9 million a year for the two publicly owned institutions. Proceeds from the tax would be split evenly between the zoo and the museum, which will continue to be managed by separate boards. With the new millage, Kent County voters will get discounted zoo admission for
seniors and school groups get in free. At the museum, Kent County children age 17 and under will get free admission and Kent County adults will get discounted admission and free parking.. ...Read Full Story

Beth Griffin Wins In 66th State House District

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Van Buren County will continue to have a Republican in the state House. Van Buren County Commissioner Beth Griffin defeated Democrat Annie Brown yesterday, winning with a margin of a little more than 25-hundred votes. She will take the seat currently held by Representative Aric Nesbitt, who is term limited. Nesbitt chaired the efforts of House Republicans to hold on to their majority in the House, which they were able to do successfully.. ...Read Full Story

LMC Millage Inching Toward Passage

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It appears the Lake Michigan College capital millage proposal is going to be approved. As of 4 a.m., two precincts were still left to be counted in Berrien County and the “yes” votes were ahead by 1,078 tallies. The ten-year millage is expected to raise about $4.364 million in the first year. The money will be put toward safety and security improvements, energy efficiency upgrades, renovation of classrooms, IT upgrades, and other capital improvements.. ...Read Full Story

Dave Pagel Wins In The 78th District

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It’s a third term for state Representative Dave Pagel. The Republican handily defeated Democratic rival Dean Hill Tuesday, carrying the district by about 9,000 votes. Pagel owns Pagel Farms in Berrien Springs. His district covers several south Berrien County townships, as well as the cities of New Buffalo, Buchanan, and Niles.. ...Read Full Story

Upton: Now Is The Time To Heal

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Congressman Fred Upton says now is the time for healing. He easily coasted to victory in the Sixth District over Democratic rival Paul Clements Tuesday. Holding a Chicago Cubs Win flag during his victory speech, Upton promised supporters he will do all he can to ensure the nation’s problems are addressed and politics takes the back seat.. ...Read Full Story

New Faces Coming To Berrien County Board

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There will be some new faces on the Berrien County Board of Commissioners in the next term. In southern Berrien County, long-time Democratic Commissioner Andy Vavra lost his bid for reelection as Republican Ezra Scott beat him, 3,384 to 2,993. Another incumbent Democrat, John Klimek, has also been defeated. Republican Michael Majerek defeated him by 355 votes. In District 3 in Benton Township, Democrat Don Meeks will succeed Marletta Seats with a win over Michael Sleep the Second. Seats did not seek another term as she ran unsuccessfully for the state House. The rest of the County Commission ran unopposed.. ...Read Full Story

Upton Defeats Clements In Congressional Race

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Fred Upton has secured a 16th term in the U.S. House of Representatives. The St. Joseph Republican easily defeated Democrat Paul Clements of Kalamazoo for the second consecutive election. Upton had a wide margin of victory in Berrien, Van Buren, and Cass counties and overcame a Democratic surge in Kalamazoo County to win there, also. Hillary Clinton currently has a roughly 9,000 vote edge over Donald Trump in Kalamazoo County, but enough voters split their tickets there to also give Upton an edge.. ...Read Full Story

84-Year-Old Benton Harbor Woman Killed In Crash

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Police have released the name of a woman killed in a Berrien Township crash this week. It happened early Sunday evening on US-31 south of Lake Chapin Road. Michigan State Police say a vehicle carrying five people left the road and flipped several times. All five people were taken to Lakeland hospital, and killed in the crash was 84-year-old Ruby Johnson, of Benton Harbor. The driver was a 19-year old woman from Benton Harbor, while the other passengers were all females, ages 18, 18, and 15, from Benton Harbor. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Police say a lack of seat belt use may have contributed to the injuries.. ...Read Full Story