News

February’s unemployment rate in St. Joseph County decreased by nine-tenths of a percent from January. Figures from the monthly labor-market analysis by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget show St. Joseph County’s unemployment rate fell from 5.9 percent in January to 5 percent in February. In addition, Cass County also experienced a drop in its unemployment figures from …

A number of recreational vehicles were reported stolen from a location in White Pigeon Township. State police said the vehicles were stolen between last Tuesday and Thursday (March 28 and March 30) from a location in the 60000 block of U.S. 131. The RVs are described as gray and white Arctic Wolf and Milestone fifth-wheel campers.

White Pigeon Township Library has announced the return of its popular “Summertime Tunes” music series. Five performances are scheduled for June and July. The lineup: June 21, The Whistle Pigs, performers of crowd-pleasing music. June 28, RockDogs, whose genre centers on classic rock. July 5, Orquesta Ritmo, a band specializing in salsa music. July 12, country/western band Brenda Loomis Band. …

A major north-south road in Kalamazoo County will be under construction starting today. Kalamazoo County Road Commission officials said South Sprinkle Road will be subject to asphalt milling and resurfacing between Kilgore Road and I-94 through June 23. In addition, work crews plan to make ramp upgrades, and focus on curb, gutter and storm-sewer improvements. In addition, Sprinkle Road will …

St. Joseph County Emergency Services Director Erin Goff recently had the opportunity to reinforce a message of safety and preparedness, as she addressed more than 60 fifth-grade students at Centreville Elementary School. During the hour-long presentation Monday, Goff shared with students the importance of being aware of potential weather dangers, being prepared if such conditions materialize and having a plan …

Crossroads Mall in Portage is searching for assistance with funding to fix the crumbling roads surrounding the mall. Kalamazoo-based WWMT recently reported on the pothole-riddled state of the circular road, sharing that mall owners are turning to Kalamazoo Metro Transit for help with the estimated $700,000 project. Buses travel nearly 800 routes a week along Ring Road, surrounding the mall, …

Centreville Board of Education members recently recognized the district’s Clue Me In participants. During a relatively light board meeting Monday, members paid tribute to the fourth-grade squad, which finished in eighth place; the fifth-grade team for finishing in fourth place, and the sixth-grade representatives, who placed third and brought home a trophy for their top-three finish. Fourth grade was coached …

U.S. Sen. Gary Peters recently received a special acknowledgment from the Center for Effective Lawmaking. According to a media release, the agency named Peters “the most-effective U.S. senator.” It marks the second consecutive year Peters has been bestowed such an honor. The non-partisan center bases its rankings on how effective lawmakers are at advancing and enacting legislation, as well as …

A grant provided through the Sturgis Area Community Foundation and the Sturgis Youth Advisory Council will result in free amusement rides during this summer’s Sturgis Fest. The foundation, accompanied by YAC representatives, presented a check Friday for $4,500 to the Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce, which chamber officials said will be used at Sturgis Fest to help with costs associated …

Centreville Junior High and High School students had the opportunity Wednesday to weigh in on a potential addition to their lunch menu. A program called “Student Choice,” overseen by food vendor Chartwells, was introduced at lunchtime. Marilyn Rosewarne, director of dining services, said students had the option to sample two types of cuisine: Asian-themed Bok Choy, featuring teriyaki chicken and/or …