Local News

Macomb County has a new leader in its Probate Court. Chief Judge James Biernat, Jr. has appointed Maryanne Deneweth as the Court’s new Administrator. Deneweth has been with the Probate Court since ’23 and previously worked more than two decades as a partner at a Clinton Township law firm. The Court handles wills, estates, and mental health cases for local families. Judge Biernat says Deneweth’s experience and leadership will bring fresh energy and innovation to the Court, which serves residents across Macomb County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

AgeWays, a nonprofit supporting seniors across Southeast Michigan, is asking residents to weigh in on its new three-year plan. The agency expects to spend about $26 million each year from ’27 to ’29 on programs that help older adults stay independent and connected. A public Zoom forum will be held May 8th at noon, and the draft plan goes live April 23rd at AgeWays.org. Comments are accepted through May 23rd by email or mail. AgeWays says the goal is to make senior services easier to reach and to strengthen community partnerships.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Port Huron woman accused of killing a man at a local gas station won’t face trial this month after all. Thirty-six-year-old Amber Oile’s April 15 trial is on hold while she undergoes a court‑ordered mental health evaluation. Prosecutors say Oile shot and killed 30‑year‑old Reginald Franklin last October during an argument at a Military Street gas station. Security video showed Oile pulling a gun on Franklin twice, firing several shots, and then shooting him in the head. She’s charged with open murder and remains held without bond in the St. Clair County Jail.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron Police are inviting families to Pine Grove Park later this month for their annual Special Needs and Autism Acceptance Day. The free community event runs Saturday, April 25th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Visitors can meet local officers, firefighters, EMS, and tow truck crews in a calm, friendly setting. Kids can explore emergency vehicles, try hands-on activities, and enjoy sensory-friendly fun for all ages. The department will also share details about its Home Alert Program, which helps first responders assist residents with special needs more effectively.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Voters in Columbus Township will decide the future of their treasurer this May. Supervisor Brad Smith launched a recall against Kimberly Hetzel, accusing her of delaying bill payments and causing problems with township vendors. Hetzel calls the claims false, saying she simply needed time to learn the financial software when she took office. If voters remove her, former deputy Valerie Kesler will finish the term through 2028. The recall election is May 5th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Local hunters and community members turned out in force last weekend for Aspire Rural Health System’s annual Hunting for Health event at Rooster Ranch. More than 95 people gathered for the two-day pheasant hunt to raise awareness and money for prostate cancer early detection. The event brought in over twenty-five thousand dollars. Those funds will help pay for free PSA screenings for uninsured men and provide five-hundred-dollar grants every six months to local patients in treatment. Organizers thanked title sponsor Ball Insurance Agency and congratulated raffle winners Cassandra Carr, Kathleen Moran, and Dr. Jessica Bennett.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet