Mattawan wrestler has bright future
By John RaffelCorrespondent MATTAWAN — Remi Schoonbeck had quite a wrestling freshman season for Mattawan at 138 pounds and cannot wait for what the future might bring him and to Mattawan’s sports program.As of in late the season, he had…
Monument unveiled to honor Lawrence area Vietnam veterans
A dedication ceremony for a Vietnam War monument was held Sunday afternoon at Hill Cemetery, Lawence, to honor Lawrence area Vietnam veterans. As a light, steady rain fell during the 45-minute ceremony, it didn’t dampen the spirits of those who…
Storms clear beaches twice but fireworks still find window to go off
Thousands of people swarmed South Haven beaches this past Friday in anticipation of the community’s Light Up the Lake fireworks show. Photo taken two hours before the scheduled show. For the second time that day, the crowd was encouraged to leave the…
Ayres seriously injured in accident in South Haven
By James Windell On June 11, 2026, Kristin Ayres rode her bike to handbell choir practice at the First Congregational Church in South Haven.When the practice was over, Kris put on her helmet and biked down to the Shell Gas…
Nine passengers rescued from disabled vehicle
Nine boaters were safely rescued from a disabled vessel during a severe thunderstorm warning in Lake Michigan. The Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office, whose marine patrol led the rescue, said the rescue effort about 3:30 p.m. Friday happened amid a severe…
Parasailer rescued by SHAES
A parasailer who became entangled in the canopy’s ropes and was unable to return to the Lake Michigan shore was rescued by SHAES responders Tuesday afternoon.SHAES was dispatched to the incident off the North Beach at 2:35 p.m. Another nearby…
Rain and high winds wreak havoc in area
The roof of the Maple Lake Amphitheater was damaged during a Friday afternoon July 3, storm that slammed the area. The damage forced the cancellation of Sunday night’s July 5, concert featuring the Out of Favor Boys. The stage will…
Fatal head-on crash closes M-43 in Waverly Township
WAVERLY TWP. – On the night of July 3, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a two-vehicle head-on crash on M-43 at 46th Street in Waverly Township, according to a press release from the…
Mike’s Musings: America at 250: From a Distant Shore to the Greatest Experiment in Freedom
One could argue, America is much more than 250 years ago. In fact America’s beginnings began over 500 years ago.In 1492, Christopher Columbus sailed west across an ocean that many Europeans still viewed as the edge of the known world.…
Life as Performance Art
I walked into a local shop to see a long-time friend; I walked out carrying a century old Arts and Crafts era table lamp. I was not on a quest for a lamp. In fact, I did not really…
Football teams getting ready
By John RaffelCórrespondent The start of football practice is less than three weeks away but coaches and teams are already getting ready.This includes Ryan Casey, coach of the Van Buren co-op which includes Bangor, Lawrence and Covert.“We have been strength…
Mike’s Musings: America at 250 Begins Right Here at Home
This Fourth of July is unlike any other in our nation’s history. As fireworks illuminate the night sky and families gather for parades, picnics, and backyard barbecues, Americans are celebrating something truly remarkable—the 250th birthday of the United States of…
Parents, students laud laid off SHHS success coach
By James Windell It wasn’t on the agenda for the South Haven Board of Education meeting on June 24, 2026, but praise for Coach Gary Guthrie seemed to take centerstage as a high school student and several parents used the…
Casco Township celebrates completion of nature preserve
By James Windell The Casco Township Parks and Recreation Committee hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Casco Township Nature Preserve, which has been called one of the most unique spots on the Lake Michigan…
Ground broken for residential development in South Haven
By James Windell A new residential development in South Haven broke ground on Thursday, June 18, 2026.The new development, according to Jaqua Realtors, is for homeowners looking for upscale living space paired with substantial room for recreational vehicles, boats, classic…
Market One recognizes outstanding leadership at sixth annual awards event
PAW PAW – On June 24, Market One hosted its Sixth Annual Awards Event at Marion Magnolia Farms, bringing together local business owners, civic leaders, and community partners from Van Buren and Cass counties. The evening served as a celebration…
2026 Van Buren Youth Fair royalty named
The Van Buren Youth Fair 2026 Royalty Contest was held Sunday, June 28. Winners include – Queen Karleigh Stamp, and Runner-up – Karlie Zerbe. Named as King was Warren Bailey. Princess – Leah Ostlund, Runner-up – Taylor Zantello, and Second…
Declaration of Independence to be read on courthouse steps
PAW PAW – Roger Henderson will read the Declaration of Independence on the Van Buren County Courthouse steps on Wednesday, July 8, at 6 p.m.The reading is part of an event planned by The National America 250 Committee and the…
Lawton Summerfest 2026 to be held July 11
By Paul GarrodStaff writernews4garrod@gmail.com LAWTON – Lawton’s Summerfest 2026 will get underway Saturday, July 11, with a car show, craft show and fireworks among the many events to be held throughout the day.Main Street will close along with Second and…
