George James

Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is giving out $150,000 in new grants to help 24 animal shelters statewide. The money comes from the Animal Welfare Fund—supported by tax return donations. Local recipients include Macomb County Animal Shelter with $10,000, Gratiot County with $8,600, and Sanilac County Humane Society with $6,500. Most projects this year will boost spay and neuter services, expand vaccinations in underserved areas, and provide pet microchips. Since 2010, Michigan has awarded over $2 million to shelters improving animal care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, the St. Clair County Child Abuse and Neglect Council is gearing up for its annual Dinner for Kids’ Sake, coming up Thursday, April 23rd at 5:30 p.m. at the Blue Water Convention Center. This year’s nautical‑themed evening helps fund programs that protect local children from abuse and neglect. Guests can enjoy dinner, a cash bar, mobile auctions, and raffles. Tickets are $60 each, and one lucky guest could win a private Huron Lady II cruise or take home $1,000 in cash.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marysville’s mayor is heading to Harvard this summer. Mayor Kathy Hayman has been chosen as a Taubman Fellow, giving her a spot in Harvard University’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government program. Elected in 2022, Hayman says the experience will strengthen her leadership skills to better guide city teams and improve community life. She currently serves on several regional boards, including the Marysville Community Fund and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Deputies in Port Huron Township are investigating after a welfare check turned tragic. On March 26, officers were called to a home on the 2600 block of 24th Street when a man didn’t show up for work. After getting no response at the door, deputies forced entry and found evidence of a recent fire in the kitchen and living room. Inside, 61-year-old Robert Baker was found dead. Investigators say there’s no sign of foul play, but the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Department are still looking into what caused the fire.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Millington, police say a false bomb threat at Millington Community Schools Thursday morning turned out to be a hoax. The call came in around 10:46 a.m., prompting a full lockdown and heavy police presence, including deputies from the Tuscola County Sheriff’s Office and a bomb-sniffing dog. Officers swept the buildings and found no danger. The lockdown was lifted once everything was cleared. Investigators say this was a “swatting” incident — a fake emergency meant to trigger a police response. Police continue to investigate who made the call.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet