Local News

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is holding an in-person meeting on Thursday at Kimball Township Hall to hear public concerns about Smiths Creek Landfill. The landfill faces multiple violations for poor gas control and odors that have upset nearby residents. Officials are proposing a $145,000 fine and new methane monitoring systems. The county supports the plan, but state approval depends on public feedback. Residents unable to attend can comment online or by email. A virtual meeting will follow on May 29th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Last Friday, north of Grand Marais on Lake Superior, the U.S. Coast Guard and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore rangers rescued four people from a fishing boat taking on water. Using a Coast Guard 45-foot response boat, the park service’s Arrowhead vessel, and a Coast Guard helicopter from Traverse City, crews safely moved the passengers to other boats. They then towed the damaged fishing vessel back to port. The joint effort prevented any injuries and saved the boat.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

State Rep. Greg Alexander of Carsonville led a resolution making May Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Michigan. The measure, passed by the House Tuesday, urges riders to wear protective gear and follow traffic laws. It also reminds drivers to stay alert for motorcyclists, especially as warmer weather brings more of them out. Michigan has over 230,000 motorcycles and 610,000 licensed riders. Alexander represents the 98th District, covering parts of Lapeer, Sanilac, Tuscola, and all of Huron County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

At their upcoming meeting on Tuesday , the Sanilac County Board of Commissioners will hear updates from the drug task force and health department. They’ll also interview four local residents—Stacy Deriso, Kellie Paehlig, Nancy Tezak, and Kim Thompson—for seats on the Sanilac Transportation Advisory Council. Commissioner Gary Heberling is expected to be appointed to a regional waste board. The board will also reaffirm support for a ’26 Thumb Area corrections grant.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Lapeer County man hit a $300,000 jackpot playing the Michigan Lottery’s 20X Wild Time instant game. The 58-year-old bought his lucky ticket at Village Station in Columbiaville, about 25 miles northeast of Flint. He first thought he was mistaken when he saw the prize and had his wife double-check it on the Lottery app. After confirming, he celebrated wildly and says the win will help him live debt free and take a trip. So far, the 20X Wild Time game has paid out over $35 million in prizes.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Blue Water Region Antique Automobile Club invites car enthusiasts to the 32nd Annual Marysville Car Show on June 8th. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Marysville Park, at the corner of Huron Boulevard and River Road, the event honors Chrysler engineering this year. All vehicles, including motorcycles of any age, are welcome to display. The show supports the Wills Sainte Claire Auto Museum, a local non-profit. For pre-registration or more details, visit willsautomuseum.com.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet