George James

Slotkin Addresses Economic and Security Challenges

Senator Elissa Slotkin visited Port Huron this week as part of her tour of Michigan’s border areas. She focused on the economic and security challenges faced by communities near international crossings. Slotkin met with local leaders to discuss the impact of tariffs and trade issues on Port Huron’s economy, especially at the Blue Water Bridge. She pointed out that declining tourism is hurting the local economy, as Canadian visitors are hesitating to cross due to border uncertainties.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Open Mic Music Series

Port Sanilac’s Historic Village & Museum is bringing back its Open Mic Music Series, kicking off May 24th with events also set for June 14th, July 12th, August 9th, and September 20th. Music starts at 4 p.m., with performer sign-ups at 3:30 p.m. Expect free concerts, bourbon tastings, history lectures, and even the Croswell-Lexington Band. Events align with big weekends like the M-25 Yard Sale and Flannel Festival. It’s all free thanks to host Johnny Johnston.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Dinner for Kids’ Sake

The Annual Dinner for Kids’ Sake returns May 1st at 5:30 PM at the Blue Water Convention Center in Port Huron. Tickets are $60 and include dinner, fun, and fundraising for local youth programs. This year’s honorees are the YMCA’s Josh Chapman and staff, named Child Advocates of the Year, and the Youth Advisory Council of the Community Foundation of St. Clair County, named Community Advocates of the Year. Guests are encouraged to wear tropical attire.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Thumb Businesses Land State Grants

Two Thumb-area businesses just got a major boost from the state. The Michigan Department of Agriculture awarded over $196,000 in grants to support rural job growth and industry upgrades. TCA Management in Caro will use $100,000 to hire staff and buy equipment that helps serve agriculture needs. In Ubly, Maurer Meat Processors received $96,350 to upgrade packaging equipment and cut down on waste. The funding supports rural jobs and strengthens key local industries.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Combat Invasive Spotted Lanternfly

St. Clair County Parks is hosting a free workshop on April 29th from 6 to 8 p.m. at Goodells County Park to teach residents how to build traps for the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect recently spotted in nearby Macomb County. The lanternfly threatens local crops, especially fruit plants like grapes. Participants will learn to identify the insect, its life cycle, and how to build traps using materials provided. The workshop also covers how to spot tree of heaven, a common host for the pest. Pre-registration is required.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Deadly I-94 Crash

A deadly crash occurred early Friday morning on westbound I-94 near Church Rd. Deputies responded to reports of a blue Dodge Charger speeding eastbound in the westbound lanes. Shortly after, a two-car collision was reported involving the Charger and a Ford Explorer. The driver of the Charger, a 28-year-old man from Harper Woods, was pronounced dead at the scene. The 32-year-old Flint man driving the Explorer was rushed to McLaren Macomb in critical condition. The highway was closed for hours as authorities investigated.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet