McLaren Port Huron has earned Level 2 maternal care verification from The Joint Commission, recognizing the hospital’s ability to care for mothers with moderate- to high-risk pregnancies. The review included the Family Birth Place, doctors, nurses, staffing and clinical procedures. Hospital leaders say the designation confirms specialty maternity care is available for St. Clair County families during pregnancy, labor, delivery and recovery, with added attention on preventing complications and improving safety for mothers and newborn babies.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Three Sarnia public schools have completed major universal washroom renovations under a nearly $1 million accessibility upgrade program. Projects at London Road, Confederation Central and Lakeroad schools were substantially finished Sept. 9th, totaling $736,860. Work at Bright’s Grove Public School was awarded at $228,000 and was expected to finish in August, but its current status is unclear. The Lambton Kent District School Board says the renovations provide barrier-free access, more room for mobility devices and emergency call systems.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan drivers should use extra caution as harvest activity increases across the state. Michigan State Police report 114 farm-equipment crashes so far this year, including 2 deaths. Last year, there were 179 crashes and 3 fatalities. With October historically among the most dangerous months, drivers should slow down and watch for tractors entering roads or making wide turns. A vehicle traveling 55 miles per hour may need 300 feet to stop behind equipment moving 15 miles per hour. Never pass until the road is clear and the machinery is not turning.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County probate judge has upheld a personal protection order for Port Huron City Manager James Freed after he said former community garden operator Julian Ruck sent threatening messages involving his wife and children. Ruck challenged the order during last Wednesday’s hearing, but Judge Jennifer Smith Deegan ruled for Freed. The dispute began after Ruck’s Port Huron garden lease ended. Ruck later pleaded guilty to violating the order twice by contacting Freed and received a suspended 10-day jail sentence.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet