George James

Harbor Beach is mourning the loss of 36-year-old Shana Umbreit, whose body was found more than three weeks after she went missing. Police say she was last seen January 23rd at Brown’s Market. Since then, neighbors, friends, and volunteers across Huron County organized searches and shared posts hoping to bring her home. Investigators aren’t releasing where she was found or if foul play is suspected. The case remains open as police await autopsy results and ask anyone with tips to call Harbor Beach Police.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has named this year’s winners of the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund. Since 2000, the program has helped young livestock exhibitors with college costs. Last year, a total of $62,000 went to 39 Michigan students. Local recipients include Grace Shupe of Huron County, earning $2,000, and Sanilac County’s Madyson Garza and Emma Noll, each awarded $1,500. The scholarships are supported by the annual Michigan Livestock Expo auction and community donations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Six remarkable women from the Blue Water area will be honored next month at the Blue Water Woman of the Year Awards in downtown Port Huron. The ceremony takes place March 11th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at McMorran Theatre. Honorees include library director Allison Arnold, county commissioner Lisa Beedon, Port Huron planning deputy Jazmyn Thomas, mental health leader Amy Smith, breast cancer advocate Emily Goudy, and youth mentor Laura Burrell. Tickets are now on sale, including food, drinks, and celebration of local women making a difference.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Two community groups are challenging actions by the St. Clair County Board of Commissioners. At its February 19 meeting, the Port Huron NAACP warned of legal action over the board’s plan to merge the county’s Health Officer and Medical Director jobs—moves critics say tighten control under controversial Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin. The group delivered a Cease and Desist Notice, citing cuts to health services. Also, Blue Water Indivisible requested that Commissioner Kerry Ange be censured for an unscheduled presentation about teen health materials. The board plans to revisit the issue March 5th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Sarnia, police say their post naming a local teacher charged with several sexual offences was legal and not under a publication ban. The update briefly came down over the weekend while officers double-checked court rules. They later confirmed the ban only covered bail-hearing details, not the charges or investigation. The 33-year-old teacher remains in custody after being charged with sexual assault, exploitation, making child pornography, and break and enter. Police continue to investigate and urge anyone with information to come forward.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet