Juanita Henry

BENTON HARBOR — While this southwest Michigan city’s new Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course opened this summer only partially constructed, more than 2,500 visitors have hit the links in what used to be the public dunes along Lake Michigan. And just as expanded operations ramp up into the 2010 season, concerns about the privatization of public parkland in a poverty-stricken community are finding an audience in some powerful venues.

BENTON HARBOR — Berrien County Prosecutor Arthur Cotter has dismissed 40 drug convictions since members of Benton Harbor’s police narcotics unit pleaded guilty to federal charges that they made up evidence, conducted illegal searches and wrongfully arrested people. Although the majority of those who were charged following improper searches and arrests pleaded guilty and formally waived their right to appeal, Cotter said that he is committed to reviewing the cases.