Event Kicks Off Summer Reading

On June 14, Petrolia’s Victoria Park comes alive with Lambton County Library’s free “Wild Wonder” Summer Reading Challenge launch party. From 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., families can dive into a wildlife-themed adventure with hands-on fun. Kids meet reptiles, marvel at birds of prey, get their faces painted, and craft cool projects. They can also sign up for the summer reading program to score prizes like LEGO sets, outdoor gear, or free books. If rain hits, the event shifts to Greenwood Arena.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Free Preschool for All 4-Year-Olds

In St. Clair County, every 4-year-old can now attend free, top-notch preschool for the next school year, thanks to Michigan’s PreK for All program. Kids get to learn from licensed teachers in half- or full-day classes, with flexible four- or five-day schedules. Some spots even offer transportation or extended care for a fee. Families can pick a preschool close to home, work, or a caregiver. This program helps kids build social, emotional, and academic skills for a strong start in school.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Crash Sends Multiple People to Hospital

On Monday afternoon in Lamotte Township, a three-car crash injured several people at Germania and Snover Roads. A 72-year-old Deckerville woman driving a Ford Transit stopped but then pulled into the path of a Chevrolet Trax driven by a 23-year-old Deford man with two kids inside. The crash pushed the Transit into a ditch, and the Trax hit a third stopped vehicle. The woman was taken to McLaren Lapeer Hospital, and the children were treated in Sandusky. Police say speed and alcohol were not involved.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

City Manager and Mayor Clash

Port Huron’s city manager, James Freed, has publicly accused Mayor Anita Ashford of overstepping her authority and creating a hostile work environment. Freed sent a letter claiming Ashford pushed a performance review for him without council approval, violating city rules. He says her actions, including involving a city clerk improperly, have hurt staff morale. Ashford has not responded publicly. Despite the tension, Freed assures city operations continue smoothly. A special city council meeting on June 9th will discuss Freed’s evaluation, highlighting ongoing leadership conflicts at Port Huron City Hall.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Man Arrested in Drive-By Shooting

Port Huron Police arrested a 21-year-old man in connection to a recent shooting near Pine Grove Park. Shots were fired from one vehicle into another on Pine Grove Avenue during an ongoing dispute. No one was seriously hurt. The suspect, Zachary Adam Stein of Sterling Heights, was arrested with help from area police. He faces seven charges, including assault with intent to murder. Stein is being held on a $500,000 bond and was scheduled to return to St. Clair County court on Tuesday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

K9 Thor Returns Home

Michigan State Police in the Third District announced that K9 Thor is back home and recovering after being poisoned while on duty in Lapeer County last Saturday. Thor and his handler, Trooper Tyler Doughtery, were helping local deputies investigate a breaking and entering when Thor ate suspected poison inside a barn. He was quickly taken to an emergency vet and then to MSU’s Veterinary Medical Clinic for further care. Thor returned home safely on Monday. This marks the second time Thor has faced poisoning on the job.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet