Michigan is bracing for record Thanksgiving travel, with nearly 2.6 million residents planning trips—up 65,000 from last year. While gas prices have risen slightly to $3.13 per gallon, they’re still lower than last year, offering some relief. However, travelers face potential headaches, from crowded roads to long airport lines, as Spirit Airlines files for bankruptcy and nationwide travel hits an all-time high.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Starting November 29th at 10 AM, WGRT will embrace the holiday spirit by switching to Christmas music, playing festive tunes daily from 10 AM to 8 PM through Christmas Day. After hours, regular programming will resume, while local news remains a constant. With a focus on supporting the community, this seasonal shift aims to enhance the shopping experience for customers and offer a cheerful backdrop for local businesses like restaurants and stores. The choice of 10 AM to 8 PM aligns with peak retail hours.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Residents in Port Huron are being warned about a scam involving fake emails claiming to be from the “Port Huron Revenue Department.” One resident received an email demanding over $3,000 in unpaid city taxes, followed by another falsely confirming a $250 payment. The victim had made no payments or clicked any links. Officials stress that the city’s Treasury Department never emails payment requests. Residents are urged to delete such emails, avoid clicking links, and report suspicious activity. Stay alert to protect yourself and others in the community.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Port Huron’s Sherman Woods neighborhood is gearing up for its annual Red Kettle bell-ringing tradition, starting November 29, to support the local Salvation Army. Known for its festive Christmas light displays, the neighborhood has raised over $42,000 since ’16 to help provide gifts and meals for families in need. Volunteers will ring the bell Fridays and Saturdays through December, with a special Christmas Eve event. You can enjoy Salvation Army Band performances, Santa appearances, and horse-drawn carriage rides beginning at Lakeside Park.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Douglas Laming was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the 1980 murder of 21-year-old Karen Umphrey in Port Huron. Circuit Court Judge Cynthia Lane says she believed the evidence, including DNA and testimony from Laming’s codefendant, Anthony Harris, who confessed and testified against him. Umphrey’s sisters described decades of pain and urged the court to impose the maximum sentence. Laming, who maintained his innocence and claimed consensual sex with Umphrey, showed no remorse.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Lake Huron Medical Center (LHMC) in St. Clair County has earned an “A” grade for hospital safety from The Leapfrog Group, making it the only hospital in the area to achieve this recognition. This marks the 13th consecutive “A” rating for LHMC, which has maintained high safety standards since ’18. The grade reflects the hospital’s focus on preventing medical errors, infections, and injuries. CEO Jose Kottoor emphasized the hospital’s commitment to patient safety, with staff continuously working to provide top care.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet