Local News

McKenzie Health System is kicking off its annual “Healthy Living Together” series in Sandusky with a session on budgeting and debt reduction. The free program happens Tuesday from noon to one at McKenzie Health System’s dining room on Delaware Street, with a virtual option available. Speaker Aileen Simons from Team One Credit Union will share simple, practical money tips. Each month, the series tackles everyday wellness topics—next up in February: “Menopause Matters.”

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron young people are gearing up to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with the return of the MLK Youth Empowerment Breakfast this Saturday at Kingdom Authority Ministries on Lapeer Avenue. Ages 13 to 24 can join for free under this year’s theme, “Dreams in Motion: Turning Purpose into Power.” After a long pause since before the pandemic, organizers say they’re excited to bring back the high-energy event with live music, free breakfast, and leadership training focused on youth voice and civic engagement.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan State Police say a 60-year-old East China man is facing serious charges after investigators found child sexual abuse material on his devices. Detectives with the state’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force arrested Mark A. Piper after discovering he was sharing files online. Piper turned himself in and now faces ten counts, including aggravated possession and using a computer to commit a crime. He’s already been arraigned and was back in court this week for a probable cause hearing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Drivers heading toward the Blue Water Bridge this weekend should expect a brief detour. The Michigan Department of Transportation will close the westbound I-94 and I-69 connector from Pine Grove Avenue for pavement repairs Friday through Monday. Westbound traffic will be routed along Pine Grove and Griswold Street before rejoining the freeway. The project aims to fix past patchwork failures and boost long-term safety. MDOT urges drivers to plan ahead and check its website for live traffic updates.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sherman Woods neighborhood in Port Huron wrapped up its holiday season with record-breaking generosity. The local homeowners association raised more than $7,000 for the Port Huron Salvation Army through its annual Red Kettle drive — up 17 percent from last year. Over the past decade, the community has contributed more than $55,000 to families in need. Volunteers collected donations as visitors enjoyed the neighborhood’s dazzling centennial light displays, carolers, and even horse-drawn carriage rides.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, the city council has given the green light to a major industrial project expected to keep hundreds of jobs in town. Leaders unanimously approved selling nearly 20 acres on Dove and 28th Streets to developer J.B. Donaldson for $10,000 per usable acre. The deal paves the way for a 230,000-square-foot warehouse and manufacturing center that’s been years in the making. Officials say the new facility will anchor more than 550 jobs, and position Port Huron for long-term growth.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet