Local News

A diver who rode a submersible 550 feet down to the Edmund Fitzgerald is bringing his shipwreck stories to Port Sanilac. Maritime historian and filmmaker Ric Mixter will give a free talk on Saturday, November 7th, inside Forestville Church at the Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum. The program starts at 2 p.m. with music from Jack Broadwell. Mixter will then talk about more than 100 wrecks he has explored and his interviews with survivors of the 1913 Storm. Free-will donations will support the Sanilac County Historical Society.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Applegate’s village clerk is back on the job, but her case is not closed. Village President Aidan Dove suspended Stephanie Helmold a week ago, alleging neglect of duty over village hall access, fire department records and documents given to the disincorporation commission. A tense Sunday meeting stalled when officials learned the stand-in clerk taking minutes was never sworn in. Dove reinstated Helmold by email Monday evening, but the Personnel Committee or an attorney may still review the matter. The Village Council meets again Monday at the village hall.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A group of 20 young dancers from Limelight Elite Dance in Port Huron is counting on local support to reach Nationals in Orlando, Florida, next March. The studio is hosting a bowling fundraiser on Saturday, November 14th, at Port Huron Lanes. Organizers are seeking $100 lane sponsors, who will receive personalized signage at their lane and be recognized during the event. Raffle donations, such as concert tickets, gift certificates, and promotional items, are also welcome, and every donor will be thanked at the fundraiser.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia’s new mayor says her win belongs to the residents who shared their hopes and concerns during the campaign. Carrie McEachran won after running on the message Keep What Works, Build What’s Next, with 5 priorities: economic development and jobs, housing, accountable leadership, quality of life and community pride, and preparing Sarnia for the future. McEachran says residents asked for responsible decisions, stronger economic opportunities, safe neighborhoods and a City Hall that listens, and she plans to work with Council, City staff, businesses and residents to move the city forward.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Dazman Drake, 24, will face a jury after a plea hearing Monday ended with no deal. Drake is accused of shooting 35-year-old Vincent Buckles at his Vanness Street home in Port Huron in January of ’25. Police say Sayon Florence, who a jury already found guilty, asked Drake to carry out the killing because she believed Buckles was abusing their child. Judge Michael West ruled a police gang expert can explain slang heard on a jail phone call. Jury selection starts November 3rd, and Drake faces up to life in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron High School students were dismissed at 1:40 p.m. Tuesday after a false weapon claim put the school on lockdown. School officials say a student claimed to see a weapon at the same time a fight broke out, which alarmed staff and students. Port Huron Assistant Police Chief Jeremy Young says officers were called to the school for the fight and no weapon was involved. No students or staff members were hurt. The school thanked Port Huron police for their quick response, and also praised the students and staff who acted fast.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet