Local News

As the holiday season kicks in, mental health experts in Michigan are urging people to use available resources, especially those struggling with seasonal depression, anxiety, or loneliness. Dr. Debra Pinals from the state’s Department of Health highlights that while the holidays are seen as joyful, they can be tough for people without family connections or those grieving. Experts say stress can lead to unhealthy habits like overeating or isolating. To cope, they suggest building strategies like taking breaks, volunteering, or seeking professional help if needed.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Port Huron City Council has approved $1.65 million for new body and in-car cameras for the police department, following a failure of a camera during an incident that resulted in the death of Joshua Conant in ’23. Conant was handcuffed after an altercation outside Roche Bar but was found unresponsive. The malfunctioning camera, which failed during the incident, led to the decision to replace the city’s aging equipment. The new cameras, from Axon Enterprises, will ensure each officer has their own.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Traffic crashes remain a major concern in Lambton County, where a string of serious collisions reflects broader road safety challenges. A new report by Strong Towns urges communities to rethink crash analysis, focusing on prevention rather than blame. Drawing lessons from aviation and healthcare safety reviews, experts identified key risks, including high-speed road designs, unsafe intersections, and poor visibility. One resident is pushing for change at Courtright Line and Mandaumin Road, proposing a roundabout to reduce fatalities.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 51-year-old Caseville man, Daniel J. Schmidt, was arrested recently for breaking and entering after deputies found him asleep in a vacation home on Birch Street. Huron County Sheriff’s Deputy Chester Kowalski had been checking the property, which had been broken into the day before, when he discovered an unsecured door. Schmidt, who had broken into the home multiple times in the past month and another home on Main Street, was charged with three felonies and remains in jail. Further charges may follow as the investigation continues.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Croswell-Lexington School Board is inviting local residents to apply for a vacant board secretary position after Amie Stillson resigned. Interested candidates must submit a letter of application and a completed questionnaire by 1:00 p.m. on December 6 to Board President Mike Noll at the district office. The Board will review applicants during their meeting on December 16, and fill the vacancy through a majority vote. The appointed individual will serve until the November ’26 election.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Christmas spirit is alive in the Blue Water Area, with local tree farms ready for holiday shoppers. Western Tree Farm in Applegate is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shea Tree Farm in Marine City opened Black Friday, letting customers cut their own trees. Port Sanilac Tree Farm in Carsonville is already selling trees. Centennial Pines in Wales Township opened Black Friday with $75 trees and delivery available. Greenwood’s Country Christmas Tree Farm & Gifts offers $75 cut-your-own trees.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet