George James

Grant to Boost Riverside Avenue Safety

St. Clair is getting a big boost for safer walking and biking. The city just secured a $209,000 federal grant to fix a dangerous stretch along Riverside Avenue where the Bridge to Bay Trail enters town. The plan adds new sidewalks and crosswalks for smoother, safer travel near the Pine River Bridge. The funding comes through the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments’ Safe Streets Now program, which helps communities build quick safety upgrades. City officials expect construction to start this fall after state review.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Applegate Council Pushes Back

In Applegate, tempers ran high Monday night as residents packed a special village meeting over a call to dissolve the village government. The controversy started with a letter from the husband of former president Michelle Warren, accusing council members of cronyism and ignoring public record requests. Village leaders fired back, saying new officials were properly hired and records were handled by the book. They also disputed claims that the fire department is separate from village control. The council plans to meet again March 2nd.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Drug Raid Nets Meth and Guns

Authorities in Kenockee Township seized drugs and weapons after a February 13th raid on a home along the 3400 block of Ruddock Road. The St. Clair County Drug Task Force says officers found 17 grams of meth, prescription pills, and seven guns. Three people were arrested — 36-year-old Jeremiah Dove, 61-year-old Daryl Dove, and 43-year-old Katrina Harris — all township residents. Each faces multiple felony charges, including maintaining a drug house. Bonds range from ten to twenty-five thousand dollars.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Cummings Plans Summer Retirement

After nearly five decades in emergency medical services, Tri-Hospital EMS CEO Ken Cummings is preparing to retire this summer after leading the agency since it opened in 1983. Under his direction, Tri-Hospital grew into the main ambulance provider for St. Clair and Sanilac counties. Cummings says the timing feels right, with a strong team in place to carry the department forward. The board expects to select his successor by March to ensure a smooth leadership handoff for the region’s lifesaving service.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Separate Trials Set in Murder Case

Prosecutors in Port Huron say two people accused in the murder of a local man will face separate trials later this year. Sayon Florence will go before a jury September 8th, and Dazman Drake will follow November 3rd, both charged in the death of 31-year-old Vincent Buckles, who was shot outside his Vanness Street home in January of ’25. Investigators say Florence arranged for Drake to confront Buckles—her former partner—after accusing him of abusing their child, though he was never charged. Each faces life in prison if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Bray’s Hamburgers Brings Classic Drive-Thru

Bray’s Hamburgers has fired up the grills in Port Huron, giving locals another stop for quick and classic fast food. The new drive-thru-only restaurant is open on Pine Grove Avenue, serving up its signature burgers, fries, and onion rings, along with chili and sandwiches. Breakfast is also on the menu for early risers. The family-owned Michigan chain first started in the 1950s. Owners say Port Huron’s small-town feel made it the perfect fit for Bray’s, where they aim to get to know their customers by name.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet