Business

SEMCO customers have made several reports to the Company of unknown door-to-door solicitors, or individuals claiming to be SEMCO employees and asking for copies of the Customer’s bill. SEMCO does not solicit customers door to door. SEMCO does not ask for customers’ account number or to see copies of bills. Customers are advised to be mindful about sharing personal information, …

A business new to downtown Colon opened to a large and enthusiastic crowd over the weekend. Farrand Hall Bakery has opened at 214 E. State St. Opening-day sales were strong and community sentiment seemed to reflect a positive vibe for having such a business in the village’s downtown district. Farrand Hall also has a market storefront at 113 E. State …

Industrial real estate developer Clark Logic recently completed the purchase of Midwest Realty Group, based in Portage, Michigan, acquiring all aspects of Midwest Realty Group’s business services, including brokerage, property management, tools and equipment, trucks, trailers, and industrial supplies. Founded by Rick DeKam, Midwest Realty Group has served the Southwest Michigan area as a full-service commercial real estate broker with maintenance, …

Dorian Roepel, a journalist and TV producer, is now acting Communications and PR Manager at the Shipshewana/LaGrange County CVB. His experience is a great addition to the Visitors Center where he’ll work directly with media, bloggers, and writers to tell the story of Shipshewana and LaGrange County businesses. His journey began in Oklahoma where he worked as a news producer …

An operations-and-supply manager with a Three Rivers-area business was recently named chairman of a state agricultural commission. Mike Phillips, an employee at Walther Farms in Park Township, will serve as chair of the Michigan Potato Industry Commission for the year. In addition, Ryan Pelletier, an agronomist and manager for Walther Farms, was chosen to serve as vice-chair of the commission …

Kalamazoo State Theatre officials announced Tuesday a pause in operations effective later this month. The closure is intended to be temporary, and will be used to gather interest and identify a new organization – likely a non-profit – to resume operations at the 97-year-old performance venue. Owner Roger Hinman said he remains committed to preserving the cultural and architectural importance …

Century Bank and Trust (CB&T) is excited to welcome Zach Perry to its Retail Lending team in St. Joseph County. Zach joins CB&T as a Personal Banker/Retail Lender, where his focus will be on expanding residential mortgage and retail loan and deposit relationships in the area. “Zach’s addition to our team strengthens our ability to capitalize on the growing opportunities …

A multi-million-dollar expansion project could be coming to Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport. WWMT is reporting that AZO released to the Federal Aviation Administration a proposal calling for weatherproofing and expanding the airport’s existing runway. If approved, the expansion would enhance the reliability and viability of the runway, allowing planes to land in excessive heat, cold or snowy conditions in …

The Lake Michigan city of Muskegon is now port of call for three cruise ships, attracting vessels used for so-called luxury cruising that started on the Great Lakes six years ago. WGVU reports the financial impact for Muskegon has been positive. Cindy Larsen, president of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, said it is estimated the city netted about $700,000 …

A nationally recognized coffee chain is on its way to Vicksburg. Details related to a plan submitted by Biggby Coffee were addressed at Vicksburg Planning Commission’s Dec. 11 meeting. Biggby’s site plan was given a green light and will eventually be developed at the northwest corner of East Prairie and North Richardson streets on property vacant for 30 years. Entry …