George James

Local drivers frustrated by backups near the Blue Water Bridge can breathe a little easier. State officials say recent slowdowns weren’t tied to Michigan construction but to short-term customs issues in Canada that have now been fixed. The new eastbound I-94/I-69 ramp to Pine Grove Avenue is open, and crews are finishing noise wall work along Scott Avenue by mid-November. The $36 million bridge plaza expansion continues to support hundreds of local jobs, though some drivers still take city routes to avoid delays.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Fort Gratiot man is behind bars after a dramatic crime spree in Macomb County. Thomas Edward Tackett, 52, allegedly broke into five homes in St. Clair Shores and Harrison Township, stabbed a homeowner with a fork, and carjacked a man. Authorities say he also drove through a golf course, damaged property, and sped the wrong way on I-94. Tackett faces 13 felony and misdemeanor charges, including home invasion and carjacking, and was denied bond. His next court hearing is set for October 21st.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County commissioners issued a formal reprimand Oct. 2nd to Health Advisory Board member Kevin Watkins for using the words “assassins” and “assassinate” during a September meeting. The 4-2 vote followed complaints from fellow board members who called his language threatening. Commissioners said the letter, sent Oct. 3rd, was meant to hold Watkins accountable while emphasizing public transparency. Watkins defended his remarks as figurative, citing “character assassination,” and said the controversy highlights the need for more diverse voices in county leadership.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is calling on residents to help bring major events home through its new Thumbcoast Beacon program. Locals are encouraged to suggest conferences, meetings, or tournaments that could be held in the Port Huron region. The bureau will handle the planning details. Officials say hosting events here keeps money local, with each overnight visitor spending about $165 a night. Residents who help attract events will be honored with free stays, recognition, and special perks.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron residents are invited to the annual Faith & Blue BBQ Tailgate at Port Huron High School October 24th. It’s hosted by Operation Transformation with the Port Huron Police, St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, U.S. Customs, and the local school district. The two-hour event offers free BBQ, police and trooper vehicle displays, gaming trailers, cornhole, and yard games. Families can meet neighbors, local schools, faith groups, and law enforcement in a fun, hometown-focused evening. Everyone is welcome.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Olivia Parr of Brown City has been named the annual Carol Crake Scholarship winner by the Sanilac County Community Foundation. Parr, daughter of Melinda and Scott Parr, excelled in volleyball, basketball, softball, and the National Honor Society during high school, while also volunteering extensively. She is now attending Mid Michigan College, pursuing a Liberal Studies degree and continuing her softball career. The scholarship supports seniors from Brown City, Imlay City, or North Branch who are pursuing college goals and maintain a GPA of 2.2 or higher.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet