George James

A 35-year-old man is in stable condition after being buried in a trench collapse Tuesday morning at a home on Barber Road in Oakland County. Officials say the man was working on a septic system when the 9-to-10-foot-deep trench gave way, covering him completely. Coworkers and a deputy quickly cleared his airway, and firefighters pulled him out within about 25 minutes. He was taken to a nearby trauma center for treatment. Authorities say trench collapses happen each construction season and stress proper safety measures are critical.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A public ceremony in St. Clair will honor a Revolutionary War patriot later this month. The Blue Water chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Ottawa chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution are dedicating a new roadside plaque at Hillside Cemetery, where patriot Jonathan Barron is buried. The event begins at 1 p.m. on July 18th at 1450 Goffe Street. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, bring lawn chairs, and prepare for the weather. Non-alcoholic drinks are allowed, and the event is open to the public.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A unique food history event is happening later this month. The Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum will host a free lecture on the Detroit-style coney dog Friday, July 24 at 5 p.m. at the Forestville Church. Michigan State University journalism professor Joe Grimm will break down what makes the coney a local staple, from its immigrant roots to the differences between Detroit and Flint styles. The interactive program includes photos, video, and a fun quiz, with books available for purchase and donations accepted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new lawsuit is adding pressure in a deadly bike crash case in Michigan’s Thumb. The estate of 60-year-old Catherine Johnston is suing a Deckerville man and his wife after Johnston was struck from behind while biking near Lakeshore and Downington Roads last September. She later died from her injuries. The suit seeks damages for her family, including medical and funeral costs and lost income. Duane Lamont already faces a misdemeanor charge tied to the crash and is due back in court July 13th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new study shows St. Clair County Community College is delivering a bigger payoff for the local economy. The report finds SC4 generated nearly $150 million in economic impact in the past fiscal year, up about nine percent from four years ago. That growth comes from campus operations, construction, and spending by students and graduates. The college also draws visitors through events and athletics, boosting nearby businesses. Officials say graduates earn about $8,800 more each year than high school graduates.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia schools and organizations have come together to collect a record 5,078 boxes of cereal for the Inn of the Good Shepherd’s food bank. The fifth annual Cereal Dom-INN-Os challenge nearly doubled last year’s total of 2,700 boxes, with eleven schools and nine groups taking part and turning the donations into fun domino courses at the end. One school club gathered 500 boxes and earned the Breakfast of Champions Trophy. Organizers say the huge haul will keep cereal on the shelves for the rest of the year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet