Local News

Three local townships — Emmett, Grant, and Ira — are turning $600,000 in state and community funding into new places to play. The projects grew from residents’ ideas with guidance from the Community Foundation and experts who helped navigate Michigan’s DNR grant process. Grant Township will build a $200,000 splash pad, Emmett Township’s $100,000 upgrade adds an accessible play area, and Ira Township’s $300,000 plan brings a green treehouse and nature trail. Construction starts this year, giving families fresh ways to gather and enjoy the outdoors in the near future.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Harbor Beach is mourning the loss of 36-year-old Shana Umbreit, whose body was found more than three weeks after she went missing. Police say she was last seen January 23rd at Brown’s Market. Since then, neighbors, friends, and volunteers across Huron County organized searches and shared posts hoping to bring her home. Investigators aren’t releasing where she was found or if foul play is suspected. The case remains open as police await autopsy results and ask anyone with tips to call Harbor Beach Police.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has named this year’s winners of the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund. Since 2000, the program has helped young livestock exhibitors with college costs. Last year, a total of $62,000 went to 39 Michigan students. Local recipients include Grace Shupe of Huron County, earning $2,000, and Sanilac County’s Madyson Garza and Emma Noll, each awarded $1,500. The scholarships are supported by the annual Michigan Livestock Expo auction and community donations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County Community College is bringing more live music to Port Huron with folk singer-songwriter Kitty Donohoe performing Thursday, March 19th, at the college’s Fine Arts Theatre. The Ann Arbor artist, known for her Michigan-inspired songs like “Michigan Waltz” and “Great Lakes Lights,” blends Irish, Celtic, and folk sounds. She’s earned a Michigan Emmy and performed alongside folk legends nationwide. SC4 says the free Noon and Night Concert Series celebrates local culture and connects the community through music.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County commissioners are taking their solar power fight to the Michigan Court of Appeals. The board voted last Thursday to appeal a judge’s decision that struck down county health regulations on solar farms. Circuit Judge Michael West had ruled in favor of DTE Energy and Portside Solar, saying the county’s rules were really zoning laws disguised as health codes. Commissioners say the appeal is about fairness for residents, not cost. The Fort Gratiot solar project has drawn community pushback over noise, health, and property concerns. A court date hasn’t been set.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Sarnia, police say their post naming a local teacher charged with several sexual offences was legal and not under a publication ban. The update briefly came down over the weekend while officers double-checked court rules. They later confirmed the ban only covered bail-hearing details, not the charges or investigation. The 33-year-old teacher remains in custody after being charged with sexual assault, exploitation, making child pornography, and break and enter. Police continue to investigate and urge anyone with information to come forward.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet