Sturgis is one of four communities across Michigan identified for the strategies it employs to foster entrepreneurial growth and economic development, according to the annual eCities study. The study, conducted by iLabs, University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Center for Innovation Research, identified Dexter, Saginaw, Sturgis and Tecumseh for their successes and efforts in contributing to Michigan’s growth. The eCities study analyzed publicly …

A former prosecutor who later served as a judge in St. Joseph County has passed away. James Noecker, 76, died Monday at Bronson Methodist Hospital. The Constantine native served as assistant prosecutor for two years before taking over as prosecutor. Noecker was appointed by Gov. William Milliken in 1981 to serve as circuit judge, completing an unexpired term. He subsequently …

Whether we admit it or not, we all have a certain phrase that sets us apart from others. Those few words we say without being aware of it. Some teenagers use the word “Like” more than they might admit. “Like, that really happened”, or “Like, I saw her talking to him and like I didn’t think she was that bold.” …

A man was arrested last week following a foot pursuit by Sturgis police. Authorities said Charles Daniel Holmes was seen in a neighborhood backyard. He fled after a resident started their vehicle, police said. Officers later located a person matching his description and a pursuit began. Holmes fled through a church property and eventually tried to enter a house in …

A pair of Three Rivers High School football players was named honorable mention to the Associated Press All-State team. Junior quarterback Jalen Heivlin and senior lineman Tyler Moore were recognized in a vote amongst a state media panel for Division 3 and 4. Meanwhile, Mendon High School was well represented in the Division 7-8 All-State team. Senior tailback Wyatt Cool …

A 24-year-old Sturgis man was arrested on multiple charges after attempting to flee from police over the weekend. Police said the man assaulted a woman and stole her purse Saturday. He was located by officers a few hours later near Lakeview Avenue and Bogen Road. The suspect is being held on charges of felony domestic, unarmed robbery, possession of methamphetamine, …

James Paul Noecker, 76, of Sturgis, died early Monday morning, Nov. 27, 2017, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. Jim was born May 1, 1941, in Constantine, a son of Paul and Marion (Sartain) Noecker. He earned his degrees from University of Michigan, BBA in 1963 and JD in 1967. He worked as assistant prosecutor for St. Joseph County for …

Dr. Robert Lou Mowry of Sturgis passed away on Sunday, Nov. 26, 2017, at Borgess Gardens in Kalamazoo, following a brief illness. Bob was born Jan. 20, 1927, in Sturgis, and was the first born son to Russel L. and Mildred L. Mowry (Kelly). He grew up on his parents’ farm, graduated from Sturgis High School, and was a veteran …

Randall Roland Wadsworth, 74, of Sturgis, died Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo, following a brief illness. Private services will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Farrand Funeral Home in White Pigeon.

Shirley J. Modert, age 67, of Sturgis, passed away Saturday morning, Nov. 25, 2017, at Select Specialty Hospital in Battle Creek. She was born Feb. 17, 1950, in Sturgis, a daughter of the late Mathias J. and Mary Rebecca (Mathews) Modert. Shirley resided in the Sturgis, White Pigeon and Bronson areas her entire life. She had been employed in the …