George James

Yale’s downtown is set to fill with crowds as the annual Bologna Festival returns July 31st through August 2nd, bringing a boost of activity to the Blue Water Area. The three-day event draws families and visitors with free admission, featuring a parade, fireworks, live music, and a lineup of quirky contests like outhouse races and a bologna ring toss. Local vendors, car enthusiasts, and community groups will also take part, turning the long-running festival into a major summer gathering centered on food, fun, and hometown pride.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new school-based health clinic is opening in Port Huron to make it easier for students to get care without leaving campus. Community First Health Centers will run the Teen Health Center at Port Huron High School starting July 27, offering checkups, sports physicals, vaccines, mental health support and more during the school day. The center will be open weekdays from 7:30 to 4:00. A ribbon cutting is set for July 23rd, as leaders say the clinic will help students stay healthy and focused in class.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan’s congressional delegation is once again urging the Canadian government to take stronger action to reduce the wildfire smoke that has repeatedly blanketed the Great Lakes region with hazardous air quality. In a letter dated July 15, Representatives John James, Jack Bergman, John Moolenaar, and Lisa McClain called on Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to provide measurable steps being taken to reduce wildfire risk and protect neighboring communities.

The lawmakers noted that Michigan has experienced multiple years of dangerous smoke conditions, forcing air quality alerts and affecting children, older adults, dialysis patients, and others with health concerns. They argue that previous assurances from Canadian officials have not produced meaningful results and say their constituents deserve action rather than additional promises.

The delegation also suggested the United States may need to reconsider its role in cross border wildfire cooperation if conditions do not improve. The letter asks Canada to explain what has changed since last summer and what specific actions will be taken before next year’s wildfire season to reduce smoke reaching the American Midwest.

A Sanilac County judge has cleared the way for a recall effort against Watertown Township Treasurer Sheila Coats. In circuit court Tuesday, Judge Timothy Wrathell ruled the petition language is clear enough to move forward, rejecting arguments from Coats’ attorney that voters would not understand the claims. The petition, filed by a township resident, accuses Coats of repeatedly failing to perform basic duties. Supporters now have 180 days to circulate the petition and must gather 159 valid signatures to place the recall on the ballot.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A serious rollover crash shut down part of westbound I-94 near Fred Moore Highway in Casco Township Tuesday evening. Deputies say a 34-year-old woman driving a 2005 Chevrolet pickup lost control, causing the truck to overturn. A 41-year-old male passenger from Kimball Township was thrown from the vehicle during the crash. Both suffered significant injuries and were treated at the scene before being taken to a nearby hospital. Officials say the injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. The freeway was temporarily closed, and the crash remains under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet