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
Advia Credit Union, with nearly 200,000 members across Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois, has launched FedNow® and Real-Time Payments. These new services allow members to access deposited funds instantly and streamline payments, making financial transactions faster and more convenient. Joli Hensley, Advia’s Director of Digital Channels, says this innovation is part of the credit union’s ongoing effort to provide secure, time-saving solutions that improve the member experience. This move underscores Advia’s commitment to leveraging technology for better financial services.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Sarnia city council’s approval to rezone two London Road properties for affordable housing could help address the city’s ongoing housing crisis. Vision ’74 Inc. is waiting for federal and provincial programs to secure the $40 million dollars needed for the 95-unit project. Despite rezoning approval for the site, which backs onto Germain Park, Vision has faced challenges in securing necessary funding, with similar projects stuck in limbo. More than 200 people in Sarnia are chronically homeless, and over 900 are on the waiting list for affordable housing.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Port Huron Police recently conducted an underage alcohol sales check at 22 local bars and restaurants. Of the 22, 17 businesses followed the rules, refusing to sell alcohol to decoys posing as minors. However, five establishments were cited for selling to minors: Zebra Bar, Vintage Tavern, Colony Bar, Sperry’s Moviehouse, and Tailgators. Police urged all local businesses to carefully check IDs to help prevent underage drinking.
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
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