It’s Pothole Season

With Michigan’s fluctuating temperatures, pothole season is in full swing, causing significant car repair costs. AAA reports that 1 in 10 drivers hit potholes leading to repairs, averaging $600 dollars per incident. The Michigan Department of Transportation explains potholes form due to freeze-thaw cycles. Motorists are advised to report potholes to MDOT and maintain vehicle safety to avoid accidents. Potholes cost Americans nearly $3 billion annually.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Manns Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter

A Port Huron man, Maximus Jack Manns, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter for suffocating his infant daughter Taytum while bed-sharing. Despite previous warnings and educational programs against co-sleeping, Manns took 7-month-old Taytum to bed, resulting in her tragic death. The CDC reports 3,700 infants died from sleep-related incidents in ’22. Manns, released on a $10,000 bond, accepted a plea deal and faces sentencing on March 31st under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, with a possible 15-year prison term.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Peck Man Arrested for Child Sexually Abusive Material

A 29-year-old Peck man, Anthony Preston Caulkins, was arrested after authorities found child sexually abusive material in his home. Michigan State Police and local departments conducted the raid following suspicions that he was sharing such files online. Caulkins faces multiple charges, including aggravated distribution and possession of abusive material, and using a computer to commit a crime. He stood mute during his arraignment, and a not guilty plea was entered. He is held on a $50,000 bond with a hearing set for February 11th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Annual Chili-Heart Event

The East China Educational Foundation’s annual Chili-Heart event now includes a chili cook-off alongside the 5K run and walk. On February 8th, from 10 a.m. to noon, participants can join the cook-off in St. Clair Middle School gym. Entry fees are $25 for competitors and $15 for attendees. The 5K run and 2-mile walk start at 9 a.m., with registration costing $25. All proceeds support educational scholarships for local students. Preregistration closes on February 6.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Former Treasurer Accused of Embezzling

The Yale Area Chamber of Commerce is suing its former treasurer, Kellie Lauwers, accusing her of embezzling at least $32,300. Lauwers, wife of Michigan State Senator Dan Lauwers, allegedly wrote checks to herself and used the chamber’s debit card for personal purchases. Court documents claim she admitted to taking the money but has not repaid it and is resisting efforts to recover the funds. The chamber accuses her of forging signatures and altering financial records to cover it up. No criminal charges have been filed.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet