Local News

Former Port Huron City Council member Alan Lewandowski has announced a run for mayor, setting up a likely November race against current Mayor Anita Ashford. He says the city needs better teamwork and a stronger direction, pointing to slowing business activity downtown and recent closures. Lewandowski, who served on council from 07 to 17, says he would focus on working closely with city staff, business owners, and community leaders, while also pushing for a clearer plan to support downtown during upcoming construction projects.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

State agriculture officials say an invasive insect has now been confirmed in St. Clair County, marking the first time the elm zigzag sawfly has been found in Michigan. The pest feeds on elm tree leaves, leaving a distinctive zigzag pattern and sometimes causing heavy defoliation, though healthy trees can recover. Officials stress the insect is not a threat to people or animals, but they are asking residents to report sightings through the MISIN app and take steps like cleaning gear and avoiding moving firewood to help limit its spread.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Two people were hurt after an ATV rollover on private property in Greenleaf Township Tuesday morning. Authorities say a 34-year-old man was driving a CF Moto CForce 1000 with a 32-year-old woman riding along when he lost control while trying to cross a driveway. The ATV overturned, throwing both riders. First responders treated them at the scene. The woman was airlifted to a hospital for further care, while the driver was taken by ambulance. The crash is still under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County Community College in Port Huron is earning statewide attention after its Licensed Practical Nursing program was ranked number one by PracticalNursing.org. The recognition highlights the college’s focus on real-world training, helping students build the hands-on skills needed to care for patients in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. With demand for nurses continuing to rise across Michigan, local leaders say programs like this are key to preparing a reliable healthcare workforce and improving care for communities throughout the region.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man already on parole for past sex offenses is back behind bars following a new child exploitation investigation. Michigan State Police say 55-year-old Raymond Hutchinson was arrested by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force after digital evidence was seized earlier this year. The case began with a tip from the Michigan Department of Corrections. Hutchinson now faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated possession of child sexually abusive material and using a computer to commit a crime.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

As the Fourth of July approaches, residents are being reminded that fireworks laws vary widely by state, and Michigan’s rules are among the most permissive this holiday. In Michigan, people can legally set off consumer fireworks on private property from 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. between June 29th and July 5th. However, fireworks are banned on public property and in state parks, and illegal explosives like M-80s remain strictly prohibited, with fines reaching up to $500 or more for violations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet