Local News

On Friday, June 27 at 5 PM, the Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum in Port Sanilac hosts “More Than Just a Tower: Lighthouse Technology.” Historian Andrew Kercher will explore Michigan’s 129 lighthouses and how their technology evolved from simple mirrors to solar-powered, automated systems. The event starts with live music by local band Ourselves. Tickets are $10 or $5 for museum members. This presentation highlights the rich maritime history that keeps Great Lakes waters safe.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Two men were arrested after Macomb County deputies raided two Area 51 Hookah and Tobacco shops in Mount Clemens and Clinton Township. The bust turned up 600 grams of illegal psychedelic mushrooms, 10 pounds of marijuana, $22,756 in cash, and five firearms. Deputies also searched a connected home in Eastpointe, seizing a Chevy Silverado and Jeep Wagoneer. The 33-year-old and 44-year-old suspects are jailed in Macomb County and were arraigned on Wednesday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Aamjiwnaang First Nation is facing ongoing dangers from pollution in Sarnia’s Chemical Valley. The Band Council recently urged about 20 to 25 residents near Churchill Road and Tashmoo Avenue to evacuate due to high benzene levels, a harmful chemical linked to cancer. Benzene spikes have forced Aamjiwnaang into a State of Emergency since April. The community continues to demand urgent government action as pollution from nearby factories threatens their health. This highlights years of environmental injustice for Aamjiwnaang, living next to one of Canada’s most polluted industrial areas.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Jasmine Bryce, raised on a rural property near Jeddo, is bringing fresh, pasture-raised poultry to the local market. After leaving her office job, she started JB’s Pastured Produce, where chickens are raised outdoors on non-GMO feed and rotated daily on family land. Bryce hand-cares for the birds from hatchlings to processing, partnering with Wilcox Poultry in Brown City for humane slaughter. She faces typical new-farmer challenges but is excited to debut her poultry at the Port Huron Farmers Market, aiming to grow her business full-time next year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In St. Clair County, the Community Foundation is transforming local spaces to bring people together. From vibrant plazas in Port Huron and St. Clair to new park projects in rural towns, these efforts are creating lively community hubs. With nearly $300,000 in grants from the Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan and others, places like the Blue Water River Walk will soon feature a restored ferry dock, new trails, and better lighting. These projects make St. Clair County a more welcoming place for families and friends to connect and enjoy.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

PBS’s “Under the Radar” returned to St. Clair County this month, exploring Port Huron’s Huron Lady II cruise ship and Palm’s Krystal Bar & Grill, plus Marysville’s Junction Buoy. On Harsens Island, local photographer Stacy Williams led hosts Tom Daldin and Jim Edelman on a kayak tour through the St. Clair Flats, highlighting diverse wildlife like the rare black tern. Catch the episode on Detroit Public Television at 8:30 p.m. on June 26.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet