George James

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 Port Huron murder case is growing more serious as two suspects now face additional charges tied to a deadly home invasion. A St. Clair County judge approved the new counts after hearing evidence that Vincent Buckles’ Vanness Street home showed signs of forced entry before his January 2025 shooting death. Prosecutors say the killing was planned, while both suspects deny responsibility and blame each other. Separate jury trials are scheduled this fall, with each defendant already facing possible life sentences if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A city investigation in Port Huron clears City Manager James Freed of claims he accessed Mayor Anita Ashford’s emails, with council members voting 7-0 to release the findings publicly. Independent attorneys reviewed records, interviewed staff and examined examples provided by Ashford, but found no proof Freed accessed or controlled her city or personal accounts. The report also found no support for claims others helped him. While Freed welcomed the results, Ashford says she plans to pursue further legal action, keeping the dispute ongoing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A serious two-vehicle crash in Sanilac County’s Speaker Township Monday morning left three people injured and sent emergency crews rushing to a rural intersection. Deputies say a 54-year-old Oxford man driving a Ford F-150 failed to stop at a sign on Galbraith Line Road and was hit by a southbound pickup driven by a 67-year-old Peck man. A 63-year-old passenger had to be freed using rescue tools. All three were hospitalized. Investigators say drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man is now awaiting sentencing after admitting to multiple child exploitation charges. Twenty-year-old Edison Tran pleaded guilty to five counts tied to possessing explicit images of minors and using social media to pressure teenage girls into sending nude photos. Investigators say the case began last fall after a tip from another police department led to a search of his home and phone, where several illegal images were found. Tran faces up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing set for late August.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet