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Local News

Ford Recalls 43,000 SUVs Over Fuel Leak Risk

Ford has announced a recall of nearly 43,000 small SUVs due to a potential risk of gasoline leakage from fuel injectors onto hot engine surfaces, increasing the threat of fires. The recall affects specific models, including certain Bronco Sport SUVs from 2022 and 2023, as well as 2022 Escape SUVs, all equipped with 1.5-liter engines.

The remedy outlined in the recall does not involve repairing the fuel leaks directly. Instead, dealers will install a tube to divert gasoline away from hot surfaces and update engine control software to detect pressure drops in the fuel injection system, triggering safety measures to reduce the risk of fire.

Although Ford reports five under-hood fires and 14 warranty replacements of fuel injectors, no crashes or injuries have been associated with this issue. Owners began receiving notification letters starting April 1st.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Maintenance Project To Close Eastbound Span Of Blue Water Bridge Starting May 29th

Beginning May 29th, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will initiate a comprehensive maintenance project on the eastbound span of the Blue Water Bridge (BWB) connecting Port Huron, MI and Point Edward, Ontario. To facilitate this project, MDOT will close the eastbound span, redirecting both directions of BWB traffic onto the westbound span.

In efforts to mitigate traffic disruptions, MDOT will allocate lanes on the westbound span for eastbound and westbound traffic. However, certain accommodations will be impacted, including the inability to reserve lanes for commuter pass holders and buses, as well as restrictions on wide loads exceeding 10 feet.

Collaborating with the Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL), MDOT aims to minimize inconvenience to travelers while ensuring the safety and reliability of this vital economic link between Canada and the United States.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan AG Warns Residents Of New Social Security Impersonation Scam

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is cautioning residents to remain vigilant following a warning from the Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) about a new impersonation scam. Criminals are posing as SSA OIG agents, demanding in-person meetings to collect cash, a practice that authentic agents never engage in.

Nessel emphasized the importance of staying informed and reporting any suspicious activity to protect against these harmful scams. Victims of this crime are urged to file complaints with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center and report the scam to Consumer Protection or SSA OIG.

Nessel’s office also provided guidelines for protecting against such scams, including blocking, not clicking links, reporting as spam, and deleting suspicious communications. Additionally, consumers were reminded that government agencies do not solicit payments through certain methods outlined in the Attorney General’s alert.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Local Siblings Set To Make Waves At Prestigious Pickleball Tournament

Two siblings from the local area are poised to make a splash in the world of Pickleball as they gear up to compete in the esteemed U.S. Open Pickleball Championships. 

Mike Chargot and Cathy Martinek, a former WGRT employee who retired in 2020, have been selected to showcase their skills at the renowned tournament taking place in Naples, Florida on April 20th. 

Held at the East Naples Community Park, this event boasts the largest Pickleball facility globally and will see over 3,000 players from across the globe vie for victory. Chargot and Martinek are excited to represent their community and are determined to give their all as they aim for the coveted “gold medal” in this prestigious competition.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Of Hopes Bowling Fundraiser Set To Strike Out Mental Health Stigma

Port of Hopes is gearing up for an evening of strikes and spares, all in the name of smashing the stigma surrounding mental illness. 

Sponsored by Sullivan Construction of St. Clair County LLC, the fundraiser will take place at Port Huron Lanes, located at 1718 Hancock St., on Saturday, May 4th. Doors open at 6 p.m. with bowling starting at 7 p.m. Admission is a $20 donation per person in advance, $25 at the door, which includes two games and shoes. 

Attendees can also participate in a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. All proceeds will directly support Port of Hopes’ initiatives, including constructing a pavilion and providing a stigma-free environment for outdoor activities. 

For inquiries, contact Ruth Thick at (810) 982-3560 or email: ruththick.projectstay17@yahoo.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

First Parents Convicted In U.S. School Shooting Sentenced To Minimum 10 Years

Jennifer and James Crumbley, the first parents convicted in a U.S. mass school shooting, were sentenced to a minimum of 10 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter by Oakland County Judge Cheryl Matthews. The ruling came amidst regrets over missed opportunities that could have prevented their teenage son, Ethan Crumbley, from carrying out the tragic shooting that claimed four lives in 2021.

Judge Matthews emphasized that the convictions were not about poor parenting but rather about the repeated failures to intervene in the face of clear warning signs. Despite not knowing about the handgun Ethan carried to Oxford High School, the couple was held responsible for their negligence in securing the firearm and ignoring their son’s deteriorating mental health.

The sentencing marked a pivotal moment in holding individuals beyond the perpetrator accountable for school shootings.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell