Aspire Rural Health System Foundation expressed gratitude to Thumb Cellular and the Sanilac County 4-H Horse Open Show Group for their donations supporting the Covenant Cancer Center at Aspire Marlette in Michigan’s Thumb. Thumb Cellular’s “Go Pink This October” campaign, featuring games, prizes, food trucks, and pink hair extensions, raised $4,034. The 4-H Horse Open Show Group added $826.52. Together, these contributions will fund a blanket warmer, ensuring infusion patients at the newly renovated center receive cozy, heated blankets during treatment.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Croswell-Lexington’s Board of Education wrapped up the year by appointing Jacob Garza to fill a vacant board seat after Amie Stillson’s November resignation to teach math at the district’s high school. Stillson was honored for her service. Garza, scoring highest among six candidates, will serve thru December of ’26. The board also approved its annual audit and purchased a $45,000 dollar pole vault pit. Garza, absent from the meeting, will take his oath on January 13th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 31-year-old Algonac man, Andrew Arnold, has been sentenced to 15 months to five years in prison after pleading guilty to reduced child pornography charges. Originally facing eight felony counts, Arnold accepted a plea deal reducing them to three: possession and attempted possession of child sexually abusive material. Michigan State Police arrested him in September following an investigation that uncovered he was downloading and distributing illegal content from his home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Lambton County, a new $2.5 million pilot program is bringing hope to those struggling with homelessness, addiction, and mental health. The CHIC team, featuring a paramedic and a substance use navigator, operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering everything from on-scene interventions to basic supplies like food and socks. Since June, they’ve engaged with the community over 777 times, providing not just immediate aid but also fostering long-term relationships to help individuals navigate towards recovery and stability.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office welcomes four new deputies: Joshua Orzel and Robert Arnold, graduates from the Wayne County Police Academy, and Chase Vogras and Lauren Powers from Delta College. Sheriff Paul Rich praised their commitment to public service. Additionally, Sergeant Ronald Edington was promoted to Lieutenant, now overseeing the Uniform Services Division. Edington, with the department since 2010, will lead the team following Lt. Micheal Moore’s transfer to the Drug Task Force.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Tree of Shining Love ceremony at Aspire Marlette Regional Hospital wrapped up the holiday season of giving with a heartfelt event on December 8th. The ceremony honored 176 individuals and recognized Sue Cook and the volunteers of the Caring Hearts Health Clinic for their 14 years of service to those in need. Nearly $20,000 was raised for the Hyperbaric Chamber Project, helping to bring vital healthcare services to the Thumb region. The names of those honored have been shared on the hospital’s social media page, alongside a video of the ceremony.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet