In today's news:

A program of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is in the state spotlight as Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist on Wednesday announced more than $1.4 million in grants to five organizations to attract new residents to Michigan. 

A student from Upton Middle School in St. Joseph was in Washington, D.C. this week to compete in the Scripps Howard Spelling Bee.

Michigan Gas Utilities is introducing its new ambassadog to the community.