George James

A Lapeer County man kicked off the new year by discovering he won $1 million in the Powerball drawing. Robert Benaglio matched the five white balls in the December 23rd drawing. He bought the lucky ticket at the Metamora BP on South Lapeer Road. After playing weekly for 10 years, Benaglio only realized his win on New Year’s Eve when he scanned the ticket. With his prize, he plans to pay off his vehicles, take a vacation, and save the rest.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 53-year-old Brown City man, Marion Mazurek, died in a crash Monday afternoon in Burnside Township. The accident occurred when a northbound semi lost control on Van Dyke near Wilcox Road, crossing into the southbound lane and colliding with Mazurek’s Mini Cooper. Both vehicles ended up in the ditch, and Mazurek was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said blowing snow and icy roads from strong winds were factors, but no alcohol or speeding was involved. The investigation is ongoing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan slipped to 41st in the rankings of the best states for entrepreneurs, dropping six spots from last year. The decline is due to slower job growth and a drop in consumer spending, which fell to just 0.4%. Michigan also saw a loss of educated workers, with over 7,000 leaving the state. Despite these challenges, the national entrepreneurial scene is booming, with a record number of new businesses opening each month, driven by trends like remote work, the gig economy, and advancements in AI.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair police officers Colin Ellul and Jared McClure responded to an apartment fire in East China Township early Sunday. Despite being out of their jurisdiction, they evacuated residents from the burning Bree Manor Apartments. Both officers were hospitalized for smoke inhalation and injuries but released by morning. Police Chief Tim Raker praised their bravery. Local departments, including EMS, worked together to ensure everyone was safe. The fire, under investigation, displaced 20-30 people, with local organizations aiding those affected.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sherman Woods Homeowners Association in Port Huron raised just over $6,000 dollars for the Salvation Army during its recent Red Kettle Christmas campaign. For the ninth year, volunteer residents managed a Red Kettle drop-off over eight holiday weekends, plus Christmas Eve, as visitors enjoyed festive decorations. President Fred Kemp praised the community’s support. Since ’16, the campaign has raised $48,328. The efforts included carol singing, Santa visits, and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Mackinac Bridge was closed to most vehicles Monday morning due to high winds reaching 50-64 mph, with only passenger cars, vans, and empty trucks allowed. The closure affected traffic heading to the Straits, and drivers were advised to reduce speeds to 20 mph as they approached. Bridge personnel were on-site to direct vehicles. The Bridge Authority required escorts for large vehicles overnight Sunday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet