Local News

A notorious Port Huron murder case is back in court this week as St. Clair County reviews old life sentences for crimes committed by juveniles. Christopher Hansen, now 69, was 17 when he shot and killed Clara Gilmore during a 1973 break-in. He spent decades in prison, briefly gained parole, then reoffended. Because Michigan’s high court struck down mandatory life terms for juveniles, Judge Cynthia Lane will resentence Hansen on Friday. Several other long-time inmates from the county are also awaiting new hearings under the same ruling.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron police say a Drug Task Force raid on Miller Street last week uncovered cocaine, meth, heroin, and other drugs. Two people were arrested: 40-year-old Joshua Spencer faces multiple felony drug charges, including intent to deliver and maintaining a drug house, with bond set at $50,000. 42-year-old Jennifer Dykeman faces several felony possession and delivery charges, with bond at $25,000. Authorities say the arrests are part of an ongoing effort to crack down on local drug activity.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s Lakeside Cemetery is honoring residents long overlooked, thanks to Marysville’s Erik Wurmlinger. His years of research and fundraising have led to a permanent memorial and bench in the cemetery’s paupers’ section, with a directional sign covered by the city. The memorial features a QR code linking visitors to an online site where families can add names and stories. A blessing ceremony is planned for late October, inviting the public, city officials, and cemetery staff. Wurmlinger’s efforts have already connected several families with long-lost relatives.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The International Symphony Orchestra is kicking off its 68th season, Soundscapes Through Time, with a focus on community and youth. Based in Sarnia and Port Huron, the binational orchestra is expanding education programs, partnering with local schools and choirs, and supporting emerging musicians. Its new headquarters will grow the El Sistema strings program, while fundraisers this fall—from an Afternoon Tea to a Big Band night—will help fuel these initiatives. The ISO aims to keep local audiences inspired and connected through music on both sides of the river.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Bluewater Health has become one of the first hospitals in Ontario to perform a cutting-edge, minimally invasive hysterectomy called vNOTES. On September 19th, Obstetrician-Gynecologists Dr. Stephanie Lammers and Dr. Brittany Hoover successfully completed the hospital’s first two procedures. The surgery leaves no external scars and offering patients less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. The procedure can also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by removing Fallopian tubes and, in many cases, ovaries.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sanilac County students are getting a big boost this year as the Sanilac County Community Foundation awarded over $225,000 in scholarships through its 2025 program. The awards support local students heading to trade schools, community colleges, and four-year universities. High schools and colleges across the county are represented, and a few additional scholarships are still being finalized. The foundation thanked donors, schools, and families for helping expand the program and encouraged folks to celebrate recipients through local media and their social page.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet