Jef Rietsma

1 week ago | sturgisjournal.com | Jef Rietsma

Residents cited the parks' revenue generation, regional draw, and diverse amenities as reasons to maintain county ownership. CENTREVILLE – A proposal to consider divesting a trio of county-owned parks appears to be at a standstill. In response to the proposed plan – pitched last month by commissioner Christina Yunker – a standing-room-only crowd attended the May 20 St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners meeting. By a wide margin, those present appeared to oppose Yunker’s pitch.

2 weeks ago | sturgisjournal.com | Jef Rietsma

St. Joseph County Road Commission installed new, larger signs to deter drivers of oversized vehicles from attempting to cross Langley Covered Bridge. The new signs feature a picture of the bridge, height and weight limits, and a directional arrow indicating a detour route. Previous attempts to prevent damage to the bridge, including "Your GPS is Wrong!" signs and height restrictors, proved insufficient.

1 month ago | sturgisjournal.com | Jef Rietsma

Alex Weinert, a bartender at Wings Etc. in Sturgis, Michigan, was named Michigan's "Star Bartender of the Year."He credits his success to his personable nature and ability to connect with customers. Weinert also runs a freelance bartending business called Wandering Tipsy. STURGIS – Alex Weinert had serious reservations about becoming a bartender after his boss at Wings Etc. in Sturgis assigned him to the task nearly a decade ago. Weinert said his concerns were justified.

1 month ago | sturgisjournal.com | Jef Rietsma

The Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) of St. Joseph County Intermediate School District will host its annual recognition program on Thursday. The event honors educators and students who advocate for special education across the county's nine public school districts. CENTREVILLE – A parent-led group working with St. Joseph County Intermediate School District hosts its annual recognition program this week.

1 month ago | sturgisjournal.com | Jef Rietsma

Jef RietsmaSpecial to Sturgis JournalAfter 40 years of ownership, Dan and Kathy Earl are selling Curly’s Inc., the only full-service restaurant in Colon, Michigan. The new owners, a couple from Chicago with young children, plan to retain the current staff. A farewell open house is tentatively planned for later this week. COLON – Last call is on its way for Dan and Kathy Earl.