Logan Welch, a beloved Grand Blanc sports coach, was honored Sunday afternoon in the Grand Blanc High School gym. Visitation was Friday at Swartz Funeral Home in Flint, while his burial remained private. Welch was shot and killed on Nov. 5th in Almont by 32-year-old William Channer III, who was later wounded by Lapeer deputies and faces five felony charges, including first-degree murder. A GoFundMe for Welch’s wife and unborn child has raised over $175,000 from more than 1,800 donors. He is remembered as a devoted husband and passionate sports fan.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley has cut $5.7 million in police facility costs from the city’s draft ’26 budget, citing rising police expenses and concerns about the burden on taxpayers. The proposed new $120 million building would have added a 6.3% property tax hike, with payments stretching 30 years. Bradley says the plan is incomplete, with no final cost, location, or scope, and it ignores inflation, interest rates, and other city needs. He stressed that police infrastructure must focus on Sarnia residents. Council will review the revised budget later this month.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair Rotary Club has raised $20,250 to help fight polio worldwide, thanks to the leadership of local couple Diane and Jim Ives. The two hosted fundraising dinners at their St. Clair home, welcoming 35 guests. Donations of $6,750 were tripled through the Gates Foundation match. The funds will go directly to vaccines and programs aimed at eradicating polio, which still affects children in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Rotary International has led the global fight against polio for over 35 years, helping reduce cases by 99.9%.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man accused of fatally shooting his 17-year-old son and wounding two other children may claim insanity at trial. Defense attorney David Kelley filed notice this week, opening the door for a mental health evaluation. Jeffery Smerer, 44, was arrested in September after the shootings, which occurred the same day he was sentenced for a misdemeanor indecent exposure charge. Michigan law allows a psychiatric exam to determine if a defendant lacked the capacity to understand or control their actions. Smerer faces 10 felony charges, including open murder, carrying possible life imprisonment.

Reporting for WGRT – ZJP bZet

Port Sanilac is kicking off the holiday season with its annual Festival of Lights on Saturday, November 29th. The community tree lighting will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at Fire Hall Park on North Ridge Street. Families can enjoy live music, caroling, cookies, and a visit from Santa. Hosted by the Village of Port Sanilac, the Fire Department, and the Area Business Association, the event brings neighbors together to celebrate the start of the Christmas season.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet