Considering the snow that blanketed our region over the weekend, we all are skeptical that spring is here to stay. Hopefully Mother Nature got the snow out of her system and we will see warm days in the coming months.

Regardless, these warmer days are a reminder that spring and summer are on the way, and that means tourists are en route. It is not news to southwest Michiganders that the population of our communities grow in volumes right around Memorial Day, which means busy season is right around the corner.

We are excited to show off all the progress that has been made in Niles, Buchanan, Dowagiac, Cassopolis and Edwardsburg during the cooler months in Michiana. While our seasonal neighbors were away, new businesses have opened, sidewalks were installed, roads were improved, schools and football stadiums have been renovated and many businesses have expanded their offerings.

Our local officials have been hard at work beautifying the region and working to improve various infrastructure throughout our communities.

As these snow birds return to their summer homes, we locals get to take advantage of some businesses that close for winter — ice cream shops, golf courses, museums, drive-ins and more. With a seemingly endless winter (hopefully) behind us, these businesses give us a chance to shake off the cabin fever, get out and invest in our communities.

While the added traffic and summer chaos may be a nuisance to some year-round residents, we are excited for the extra foot traffic to our downtown districts, the added revenue for all of our commercial regions and the comradery that comes with backyard barbecues and lakeside fun.

Opinions expressed are those of general manager Ambrosia Neldon, managing editor Sarah Culton and sports editor Scott Novak.