Local News

McKenzie Health System in Sandusky will host a free session on Alzheimer’s disease Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. at 120 Delaware St. Lunch is $5, and virtual attendance via Zoom is available. Licensed social worker Douglas Lobdell from the Alzheimer’s Association will explain the signs, stages, risk factors, and care strategies for the disease. Part of the Healthy Living Together series, the event aims to give Sanilac County families tools and resources to better understand and manage Alzheimer’s. Registration is online or by calling 810-648-6127.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Police across Michigan are stepping up patrols for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign now through Sept. 1st. The crackdown targets impaired drivers ahead of the busy Labor Day weekend, a period linked to higher crash and fatality rates. In recent years, nearly half of Michigan’s Labor Day driver deaths involved alcohol or drugs. State and local agencies urge residents to plan sober rides, warning that officers will arrest anyone they believe is impaired, regardless of blood alcohol level.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Oil Museum of Canada in Oil Springs is hosting the Wheels & Wells Car Show on Saturday, August 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., blending Lambton County’s oil history with classic cars. Car registration starts at 9:30 a.m. by donation, with a $10 suggestion, while spectators get in free. The event will feature museum displays linking oil to the rise of automobiles, trivia with prizes, food and drinks, a 50/50 draw, and awards for show cars at 2 p.m. It runs rain or shine.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County man pleaded guilty last week to falsifying records at his marine training school.

Mel Stackpoole, 62, ran Great Lakes Charter Training, where he offered Coast Guard-approved courses. In ’20, he cut classroom hours nearly in half, instructed students to lie about their experience and health, gave out exam answers, and inflated test scores.
Stackpoole let unqualified mariners gain credentials, officials say. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine at his December 18th sentencing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 95-year-old Sigel Township resident fell victim to a phone scam last week, losing $17,000. Michigan State Police say the woman was called by someone claiming to be her son, along with another person posing as a public defender demanding bail money for a supposed accident.

Couriers picked up the cash in two separate trips: first, a tall man in a dark gray Chevrolet Malibu, then a heavy-set woman in a black Jeep. Troopers urge anyone with information to contact Tpr. Dennis Bills or D/Sgt. Daniel Inman.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

At least six people were killed Tuesday afternoon in a major crash at Vassar and Fairgrove Roads in Gilford Township in Tuscola County. Authorities say a southbound pickup carrying three people ran a stop sign and slammed into a westbound van with 10 passengers. Several people were thrown from the vehicles, and the condition of others is still unknown. Emergency crews from multiple fire departments, local police, air and ground medical teams, and road crews responded to the scene. The Tuscola County Sheriff’s Office continues investigating the deadly collision.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet