George James

Macomb County has a new leader in its Probate Court. Chief Judge James Biernat, Jr. has appointed Maryanne Deneweth as the Court’s new Administrator. Deneweth has been with the Probate Court since ’23 and previously worked more than two decades as a partner at a Clinton Township law firm. The Court handles wills, estates, and mental health cases for local families. Judge Biernat says Deneweth’s experience and leadership will bring fresh energy and innovation to the Court, which serves residents across Macomb County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Voters in Columbus Township will decide the future of their treasurer this May. Supervisor Brad Smith launched a recall against Kimberly Hetzel, accusing her of delaying bill payments and causing problems with township vendors. Hetzel calls the claims false, saying she simply needed time to learn the financial software when she took office. If voters remove her, former deputy Valerie Kesler will finish the term through 2028. The recall election is May 5th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Local hunters and community members turned out in force last weekend for Aspire Rural Health System’s annual Hunting for Health event at Rooster Ranch. More than 95 people gathered for the two-day pheasant hunt to raise awareness and money for prostate cancer early detection. The event brought in over twenty-five thousand dollars. Those funds will help pay for free PSA screenings for uninsured men and provide five-hundred-dollar grants every six months to local patients in treatment. Organizers thanked title sponsor Ball Insurance Agency and congratulated raffle winners Cassandra Carr, Kathleen Moran, and Dr. Jessica Bennett.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and police across St. Clair County are stepping up reminders to keep your eyes on the road. Sheriff Matt King says Michigan’s hands‑free law carries steep fines, but the real danger is the weight of the vehicle you’re controlling. He urges drivers to stash their phones and set music or GPS before pulling out. With construction season kicking in, deputies will also watch work zones closely. National Work Zone Awareness Week runs April 20–24, stressing slower speeds and extra caution, especially since injuring a road worker can bring serious penalties.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet