George James

St. Clair County health officials are warning residents that mosquito-borne viruses like West Nile remain a risk, even after years with few or no local cases. Medical Director Doctor Remington Nevin says low case numbers don’t mean the danger is gone, and outdoor time should always be treated as carrying some risk. Most infected people show no symptoms, but about 1 in 5 develop fever or body aches, and severe brain-related illness is possible, especially in older adults. With no vaccine available, the health department urges long sleeves and EPA-registered repellent.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Kathy and Darwin Sneller of Sebewaing were honored statewide over the weekend. The Huron County couple, owners of Starward Farms, were inducted into the Michigan Farmer’s Hall of Fame Saturday. The Snellers have run their 943-acre dairy and crop farm for more than 50 years, raising 100 milking cows and growing sugarbeets, corn, wheat, soybeans and hay. Their herd earned a national breeder award for 34 straight years. The induction ceremony took place at Presbyterian Church in Hastings, featuring remarks from state and national farm leaders.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Monarch butterflies are gathering along Lake St. Clair shorelines as their fall migration south gets underway, continuing through November. Michigan-born monarchs are flying up to 3,000 miles to central Mexico and southern Florida, using the shoreline to navigate and avoid getting lost over open water. Closer to Port Huron, Lake St. Clair Metropark near Lake St. Clair has become a known stopover, where monarchs cluster in trees to roost overnight for warmth and safety. Wildlife officials say late summer and early fall gardens with blooming flowers are also drawing butterflies.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Sanilac’s history museum turns its grounds into a world wine tour this weekend. The Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum will host its Sip and Stroll fundraiser Sunday evening, letting guests wander the grounds while sampling wines from around the globe, alongside live string quartet music and appetizers. Organizers redesigned the event this year so every ticket includes the full tasting experience upfront. Advance tickets are cheaper online, with walk-ins welcome at the door. Proceeds help preserve the museum’s history for future visitors.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Firefighters battled a second-alarm blaze at a Mayfield Township aircraft hangar Monday night after motorists spotted smoke and called 911. Crews arrived at the DuPont-Lapeer Airport just after 7 to find smoke pouring from the building, prompting departments from across Lapeer County to respond with mutual aid. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes, damaging aircraft and property inside, though no one was in the hangar at the time. One firefighter suffered a minor injury, but no civilians were hurt. Fire officials say the cause remains under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet