George James

A traveling exhibit is bringing Michigan’s Thumb history to local communities this summer. The Sanilac County Historical Society will take “Echoes of Sanilac” to 15 stops across Sanilac, Huron, Tuscola, and Lapeer counties from June through September, with free admission. The exhibit covers everything from ancient petroglyphs to Great Lakes shipping, wildfires, and Prohibition-era rumrunning. Organizers say it highlights how everyday people shaped the region through hardship and change. A permanent display is also open at the Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum in Port Sanilac.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Lapeer County murder case is on hold after a judge ruled the suspect is not competent to stand trial. Authorities say 32-year-old William Channer Jr. of Columbus Township shot and killed his former boss, Logan Welch, at Trims Unlimited in Almont last November. Channer later led deputies on a high-speed chase before being shot and arrested. A forensic evaluation found him incompetent but “restorable,” meaning treatment could allow the case to move forward. Prosecutors say the court will review his condition monthly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron leaders are moving forward with early plans for a permanent downtown farmers market structure near Quay and Merchant streets. City Manager James Freed says the project builds on the market’s proven success, with free conceptual design work from the U.S. Department of Agriculture valued around $100,000. The open-air structure could host markets, festivals, and events like Blue Water Fest. Officials are now refining designs to pursue state, federal, and local grants, with hopes the long-term project becomes a reality within the next few years.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan is securing a major military upgrade with ripple effects nationwide. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a $152 million funding bill to modernize Selfridge Air National Guard Base near Detroit, improving runways and taxiways ahead of a new fighter mission. The move also unlocks nearly $800 million in federal investment. The base is transitioning to F-15EX fighter jets, replacing aging A-10 aircraft, with new KC-46A refueling tankers set to arrive starting in ’27 as part of a broader military overhaul.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet