News

Michigan’s 16-day firearms deer hunting season came to an end Sunday across Michigan and by most accounts, it was, as predicted, not the best of seasons for hunter success. Brent Rudolph, Deer and Elk Program Leader at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, says the number of deer checked at its various stations was down significantly from last year. He …

Officials are investigating after a man’s body was found at the scene of a house fire in Kalamazoo County. Firefighters got a call about 3:00 Monday morning about a fire at a home in Pavilion Township near Comstock, where they found flames covering the home and siding melting on a neighbor’s garage. Authorities say the man found dead was 65-year-old …

While many shoppers will be scanning the internet searching for bargains this “Cyber Monday,” local retailers say if you’re more a “hands on” shopper, you should head to your local shop. Michigan Retailers Association President and CEO Jim Hallan says some shoppers like to browse online but still like that face-to-face interaction you get at a local retailer. He says …

The largest school district in the county is considering raising its pay rate for substitute teachers. Meanwhile, Three Rivers Community Schools has already taken that step by approving the first pay increase in 14 years for its substitute teachers following action last week. District officials in Sturgis said a shortage of subs this school year has promoted a look at …

The Sturgis Police Department will receive a new squad vehicle. Anticipating the department would need a new cruiser, the city budgeted $ 27,500 for the 2014-15 fiscal year. Bill Snethkamp-Fleet in Lansing was the low bidder at $22,643, plus a $200 charge for delivery. The vehicle is on the lot and available immediately, a factor that influenced commissioners to accept …

Colon Community Schools is attempting to find new ways to gain input from parents and the community. To that end, district officials have posted on the district’s home page a link to an input survey. The survey can be accessed by going to colonschools.org. Prospective participants should look for and click on a tab that says “Quick Links.” Doing so …

The St. Joseph County 4- H Youth Council recently recognized and honored local members, volunteers, leaders and donors at a recognition banquet. The MSU Extension of St. Joseph County annually pays tribute to those who support the program with their talents, time and money. In addition, young people are awarded for their efforts in a variety of project areas. Several …

Glen Oaks Community College officials have discussed a long-range concept of on-campus dormitories. During a meeting of the Board of Trustees earlier this month, Glen Oaks president David Devier said the college has been looking into the possibility of adding dormitories and that a developer has shown interest in financing those dormitories. Devier was quick to note the concept is …

The city of Sturgis will stage a public hearing next month regarding the removal of a portion of Magnolia Street. The hearing, which takes place Dec. 17, will center on Magnolia Street from the Prairie Avenue right of way to the west property boundary of Carls Park. Sturgis voters earlier this month approved the transfer of Carls Park to Burr …

Workers from Elkhart-based Days Machinery Movers, along with Crane Industrial Service have erected a 72-foot- tall tank at Michigan Milk Producers Association in Constantine. The tank weighs 28,000 pounds and holds 50,000 gallons of milk, according to Bill VanHusan, of Days Machinery Movers. Nearly $10 million is being invested in MMPA and Foremost Farms USA dairy cooperatives, following a July …