Local News

Port Huron’s Blue Water Area Transit has welcomed 11 brand new paratransit buses following their arrival in late September. The $3 million investment in public transportation includes Ford E-450 Super Duty vehicles featuring low-floor designs and compressed natural gas engines for environmental efficiency. Each bus can accommodate 18 regular passengers or 8 passengers with 3 wheelchairs, ensuring accessibility for residents with mobility needs. This project was funded through federal grants and state support, strengthening transportation services for the Blue Water Area community.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 19-year-old from Melvin was hospitalized Thursday following a 2-vehicle crash at Brockway and Galbraith Line Roads in Speaker Township. The collision occurred at 8:20 a.m. when the young man’s Dodge pickup failed to stop due to mechanical problems, striking a Dodge Ram driven by a 44-year-old Brockway resident. The older driver was treated and released at the scene. The 19-year-old was transported to Port Huron McLaren Hospital for further treatment. Aspire EMS and Speaker Township Fire Department responded, and the incident remains under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new performing arts center is launching in Croswell. The Foundry Performing Arts Center invites you to a bourbon tasting fundraiser on Saturday, October 17 from 7 to 10 p.m. at The Grand Suite above Lexington Village Pub. Tickets are 100 dollars per person and include bourbon tastings, appetizers, live performances and a silent auction. All proceeds support bringing arts and theater programming to youth and the community. Tickets are limited to 100 guests.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lapeer authorities arrested a 49-year-old man accused of setting 2 fires. The Golden Arrow Drop-In Center on North Jefferson and the Lapeer District Library on West Nepessing both caught fire within minutes. Police say Andrew Christensen was captured on surveillance cameras at both locations just before the flames erupted, and he had made threats to burn down the buildings hours earlier. Christensen was arrested and arraigned last Thursday on 2 felony counts of arson, each carrying up to 10 years in prison. He also faces charges for retail fraud and vehicle theft.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan drivers should use extra caution as harvest activity increases across the state. Michigan State Police report 114 farm-equipment crashes so far this year, including 2 deaths. Last year, there were 179 crashes and 3 fatalities. With October historically among the most dangerous months, drivers should slow down and watch for tractors entering roads or making wide turns. A vehicle traveling 55 miles per hour may need 300 feet to stop behind equipment moving 15 miles per hour. Never pass until the road is clear and the machinery is not turning.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McLaren Port Huron has earned Level 2 maternal care verification from The Joint Commission, recognizing the hospital’s ability to care for mothers with moderate- to high-risk pregnancies. The review included the Family Birth Place, doctors, nurses, staffing and clinical procedures. Hospital leaders say the designation confirms specialty maternity care is available for St. Clair County families during pregnancy, labor, delivery and recovery, with added attention on preventing complications and improving safety for mothers and newborn babies.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet