George James

St. Clair County authorities are warning residents about a rising scam targeting families of recently arrested individuals. Scammers pose as law enforcement, claiming a loved one can be released on tether if immediate payment is made through apps like PayPal, Zelle, or ApplePay. Sheriff’s officials stress that no local agency will ever request money this way. Families who get suspicious calls should contact the Sheriff’s Office directly to verify before sending any funds. This alert comes after several reports in recent days across St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s A Beautiful Me and its retail arm, The Closet, opened a new 4,500 sq. ft. location at 220 Huron Avenue. The combined office and store space supports the nonprofit’s mission of boosting confidence, leadership, and self-esteem in girls across Southeast Michigan. You’re invited this afternoon at 3:45 for a gathering and a 4 o’clock ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Blue Water Chamber of Commerce. Local sponsors helped outfit the space with a kitchenette, plumbing, new appliances, WiFi upgrades, and more, making the move possible.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron residents can now get seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the St. Clair County Health Department while supplies last. Flu shots are available for everyone from 6 months to seniors 65 and older, with options tailored by age. The latest COVID vaccine, Novavax, is offered to adults 65+ and anyone 12–64 with certain health risks. Walk-in Wednesdays run through November 19th, no appointment needed. Most insurance is accepted, and costs for uninsured adults vary. More info is at scchealth.co

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron residents are invited to a public meeting on October 29th at the DoubleTree Hotel, 800 Harker St., from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART) will discuss local PFAS contamination, which comes from human-made chemicals used in manufacturing, firefighting, and everyday products. Officials from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will cover potential health impacts, while the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy will share investigation results and next steps. Attendees can ask questions after the presentations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man convicted of killing a woman more than 50 years ago received a new sentence last Friday. Chris Hansen, now 69, was 16 when he shot Clara Gilmore in her home during a planned robbery in ’73. Under a Michigan Supreme Court ruling, Hansen’s life sentence was deemed unconstitutional for minors.

A Circuit Court Judge resentenced him to 50 to 90 years, giving credit for the 52 years he has already served. Hansen apologized in court, taking responsibility for the crime, but his chances of release remain very low.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet