Drivers across Michigan’s Thumb region should expect delays as road work ramps up. The Michigan Department of Transportation is spending about $475,000 to seal pavement cracks on key highways in Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron, and Sanilac counties. Work starts May 11th on M-24 in Lapeer County, then moves through nearby counties, covering routes like M-25, M-46, and M-53. Crews will fix cracks to extend road life and prevent bigger damage. Motorists should plan for intermittent lane closures through late June, depending on weather.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Huron County man will lose his hunting privileges for years after a jury found he helped organize an illegal deer hunt. Prosecutor Timothy Rutkowski says 61-year-old Christopher Ahearn of Kinde was convicted for aiding the unlawful taking of deer during a restricted season in Lincoln Township back in December of ’24. Testimony from hunters, along with DNR evidence and messages, showed he coordinated the hunt. Jurors reached a verdict in under two hours. Ahearn cannot hunt for the rest of this year plus five more.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Tourism leaders along Michigan’s sunrise coast are rolling out a new push to bring in visitors. The Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has unveiled a new brand, “Discover Michigan’s Thumbcoast,” along with a logo inspired by local sunrises, water views, and shoreline communities. Officials say the goal is to better highlight the region’s waterfront, trails, downtowns, and year-round events. The campaign also directs travelers to thumbcoast.org and social media for trip planning and local updates.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A domestic violence standoff in St. Clair County ended without injuries after a heavy police response in Kenockee Township. Michigan State Police from the Lapeer Post were called to a home on Kilgore Road around 2 p.m. Monday. Residents were urged to avoid the area as troopers worked to secure the scene, though officials said there was no threat to the public. After hours of negotiations, the suspect surrendered just after 5:20 p.m. He is now in the St. Clair County Jail, facing multiple felony charges.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet