Local News

Port Huron’s A Beautiful Me and its retail arm, The Closet, opened a new 4,500 sq. ft. location at 220 Huron Avenue. The combined office and store space supports the nonprofit’s mission of boosting confidence, leadership, and self-esteem in girls across Southeast Michigan. You’re invited this afternoon at 3:45 for a gathering and a 4 o’clock ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Blue Water Chamber of Commerce. Local sponsors helped outfit the space with a kitchenette, plumbing, new appliances, WiFi upgrades, and more, making the move possible.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County authorities are warning residents about a rising scam targeting families of recently arrested individuals. Scammers pose as law enforcement, claiming a loved one can be released on tether if immediate payment is made through apps like PayPal, Zelle, or ApplePay. Sheriff’s officials stress that no local agency will ever request money this way. Families who get suspicious calls should contact the Sheriff’s Office directly to verify before sending any funds. This alert comes after several reports in recent days across St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lexington welcomed Fred Golda as its new fire chief on last Friday. Golda, a retired Sterling Heights firefighter, spent nearly 20 years in service and earned multiple awards before retiring in ’08. He takes over after former Chief Keefe Radtke resigned in September amid disputes with village leadership. Assistant Chief James Johnson had led the department in the interim. Village officials say Golda will help strengthen teamwork and guide the fire department forward. Congrats to him.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron residents can now get seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the St. Clair County Health Department while supplies last. Flu shots are available for everyone from 6 months to seniors 65 and older, with options tailored by age. The latest COVID vaccine, Novavax, is offered to adults 65+ and anyone 12–64 with certain health risks. Walk-in Wednesdays run through November 19th, no appointment needed. Most insurance is accepted, and costs for uninsured adults vary. More info is at scchealth.co

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s Treasure Chest resale shop is spreading holiday cheer this season with its first family adoption program. Owners Samantha and Francis Baptiste plan to provide Christmas gifts and a full holiday dinner to three local families. The effort, inspired by Samantha’s own experience in foster care, aims to fully support families who may not qualify for larger programs. Applications are open now at the store, with winners selected after the shop’s Halloween Fun Day on Oct. 25th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man convicted of killing a woman more than 50 years ago received a new sentence last Friday. Chris Hansen, now 69, was 16 when he shot Clara Gilmore in her home during a planned robbery in ’73. Under a Michigan Supreme Court ruling, Hansen’s life sentence was deemed unconstitutional for minors.

A Circuit Court Judge resentenced him to 50 to 90 years, giving credit for the 52 years he has already served. Hansen apologized in court, taking responsibility for the crime, but his chances of release remain very low.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet