George James

Deckerville Woman Hospitalized

A two-vehicle crash last Wednesday morning in Evergreen Township sent a Deckerville woman to the hospital. Around 7, a GMC Terrain driven by the 76-year-old failed to stop at the intersection of North Van Dyke and Deckerville Road and was struck by a northbound Ford Transit van from Marlette. The collision left the van on its side in a ditch and the SUV on the roadside. Firefighters had to free the woman from her SUV before Sanilac EMS transported her to McLaren Lapeer. The van driver was checked at the scene and released.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Blue Water Habitat Honors Retiring Director

Blue Water Habitat for Humanity celebrated 35 years of helping families in the Blue Water Area last Tuesday at Alexander’s Premier Banquet Facility in Port Huron. The event honored retiring Executive Director Ernest Werth-Toward, who led the nonprofit since ’08, overseeing programs like ReStore and Rock the Block, which brings hundreds of volunteers together to improve neighborhoods. Habitat helps local families build affordable homes through volunteer “sweat equity” and homeowner education. Interim Director Kara Geib praised Werth-Toward’s collaborative leadership and lasting impact on staff, volunteers, and the community.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Prosecutors Move to Block Unusual Subpoena

The St. Clair County Prosecutor’s Office is pushing back against a rare move by the defense in a local murder case. Lawyers for Maurice Houle — accused of killing his girlfriend’s 3-year-old son in ’18 — tried to subpoena the same prosecutor who is handling the trial. Prosecutors say that is improper and not necessary because detectives and transcripts can speak to the same facts. A judge will decide on Nov. 7th, the same day the court hears arguments over whether Houle’s interrogation statements can be barred from trial. Houle faces life in prison if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Man’s Legacy Sparks Bill

State lawmakers are set to consider the Joshua Conant Act, named for a Port Huron man who died outside a downtown bar in ’23. The bills, sponsored by State Rep. Joe Pavlov, would require security staff across Michigan to be trained in safe restraint techniques to prevent suffocation. The proposal mirrors Port Huron’s own Joshua Conant Ordinance, passed earlier this year. City Manager James Freed, Conant’s family, and community members plan to speak at the House Committee hearing on November 13th in support of the changes.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Woman’s Life Insurance Society Boosts Museum with Donation

The Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum received a $1,807.97 boost thanks to local group Woman’s Life Insurance Society, Lexington Chapter 927. The funds came from an August “Quartermania” auction that raised $1,307.97, matched by $500 from the chapter. Members have long supported the museum through volunteering and helping with events like the annual Haunted Village. Sanilac County Historical Society leaders say the donation strengthens efforts to preserve and celebrate local history.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Museums Celebrates Global Winter Holidays

Port Huron Museums is launching “Winter Traditions Around the World!” from Nov. 12th to Jan. 4th, inviting locals to help create displays celebrating global winter holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and Lunar New Year. Before the holidays, the museum hosts fall events including the Haunted Blue Water Area film today, and the Murder and Mayhem Trolley Tour Saturday and on the 30th. December features the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour with hot chocolate, cookies, and a stop at the new exhibit.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet