Drivers across St. Clair County should plan for delays this week as road crews roll out closures and lane restrictions, which started yeasterday. A full shutdown is set for North Road in Burtchville Township through July 17th, while Sayles Road in Brockway Township closes July 8th for culvert work. Meanwhile, intermittent lane closures are expected countywide, including Palms, Anchor Bay, Rattle Run, Bree, and Church roads for paving, ditching, and maintenance. Officials urge motorists to follow detours, watch signage, and allow extra travel time.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron father will spend the rest of his life in prison after killing one child and seriously injuring two others inside their apartment last fall. A judge sentenced 45-year-old Jeffery Smerer to life without parole for the death of his 17-year-old son, Kayleb, and added decades for the shootings of his younger children, who survived with lasting injuries. The attack happened as the kids were getting ready for school. In court, the children spoke about the trauma and loss, while the judge called the case a tragedy beyond description.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is getting ready for a week of tennis as the 69th annual Robinson Tournament returns to Sanborn Park and the Port Huron Tennis House from July 28th through August 2nd. Free events start the 27th, including a kids play day and warm-up clinics for players. Matches begin Tuesday with finals on Sunday, bringing in competitors from across Michigan, other states, and Canada. Organizers are also inviting community members to take part now through a T-shirt design contest ahead of the tournament.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new craft cocktail spot is now open in downtown Lexington. Detroit City Distillery has launched its first location outside Detroit inside the former Foley’s Market on Huron Avenue. The business says it chose Lexington for its growing popularity as a Lake Huron getaway that is still close to the city. The menu features Michigan-made ingredients, including signature drinks like a Blackberry Bourbon Smash. The bar, created with help from the Roxbury Group, is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County woman has pleaded guilty after authorities found nearly 100 animals dead on her property. Forty-eight-year-old Connie Wonner accepted a plea deal June 22nd, admitting to reduced charges tied to animal neglect and abuse. Investigators say when animal control visited in March, animals were kept without food or clean water, some in extreme heat or freezing conditions, and living in filthy enclosures. Of roughly 200 animals on the property, about half were dead. Wonner is scheduled for sentencing August 14th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet