Local News

AgeWays, a nonprofit supporting seniors across Southeast Michigan, is asking residents to weigh in on its new three-year plan. The agency expects to spend about $26 million each year from ’27 to ’29 on programs that help older adults stay independent and connected. A public Zoom forum will be held May 8th at noon, and the draft plan goes live April 23rd at AgeWays.org. Comments are accepted through May 23rd by email or mail. AgeWays says the goal is to make senior services easier to reach and to strengthen community partnerships.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Port Huron woman accused of killing a man at a local gas station won’t face trial this month after all. Thirty-six-year-old Amber Oile’s April 15 trial is on hold while she undergoes a court‑ordered mental health evaluation. Prosecutors say Oile shot and killed 30‑year‑old Reginald Franklin last October during an argument at a Military Street gas station. Security video showed Oile pulling a gun on Franklin twice, firing several shots, and then shooting him in the head. She’s charged with open murder and remains held without bond in the St. Clair County Jail.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Voters in Columbus Township will decide the future of their treasurer this May. Supervisor Brad Smith launched a recall against Kimberly Hetzel, accusing her of delaying bill payments and causing problems with township vendors. Hetzel calls the claims false, saying she simply needed time to learn the financial software when she took office. If voters remove her, former deputy Valerie Kesler will finish the term through 2028. The recall election is May 5th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Local hunters and community members turned out in force last weekend for Aspire Rural Health System’s annual Hunting for Health event at Rooster Ranch. More than 95 people gathered for the two-day pheasant hunt to raise awareness and money for prostate cancer early detection. The event brought in over twenty-five thousand dollars. Those funds will help pay for free PSA screenings for uninsured men and provide five-hundred-dollar grants every six months to local patients in treatment. Organizers thanked title sponsor Ball Insurance Agency and congratulated raffle winners Cassandra Carr, Kathleen Moran, and Dr. Jessica Bennett.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and police across St. Clair County are stepping up reminders to keep your eyes on the road. Sheriff Matt King says Michigan’s hands‑free law carries steep fines, but the real danger is the weight of the vehicle you’re controlling. He urges drivers to stash their phones and set music or GPS before pulling out. With construction season kicking in, deputies will also watch work zones closely. National Work Zone Awareness Week runs April 20–24, stressing slower speeds and extra caution, especially since injuring a road worker can bring serious penalties.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The trail clean-up is in Sarnia on Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. to noon, and nuSarnia is asking volunteers to help clear litter from the Midtown Trail before the busy spring and summer season. You’ll clearing winter debris and refreshing one of the city’s key walking and biking routes. Volunteers are asked to wear long pants, closed‑toe shoes, and bring gloves and water. All supplies will be provided. The event also counts toward community service hours for local high school students. Registration details are available on the nuSarnia website.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet