Peck is being recognized for its forward-thinking community planning. Today the Michigan Economic Development Corporation will award the village the Redevelopment Ready Communities Essentials designation. This honor highlights Peck’s clear vision for growth and its efforts to streamline development through strong planning and zoning practices. The RRC program, launched statewide in 2013, helps communities prepare for new investment and make themselves more attractive to businesses and residents. Peck joins 31 other Michigan communities earning this designation for being “development ready.”

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Sanilac is set for big upgrades with a $50,000 gift from the Hull Giving Fund through the Bellis Trust. The money, from Macomb’s Melissa Hull, will add a new playscape, benches, flowers, and streetscape improvements from M-25 to Lighthouse Park. The Port Sanilac Area Business Association says the project will make downtown and Harbor Park more welcoming for families, visitors, and local businesses. Leaders call the gift a “transformative investment” that brings years of planning to life.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County mourns the loss of 16-year-old Arianna Squires of Fort Gratiot, who died Sunday morning after being seriously injured on Lakeshore Road. Deputies responded early Sunday and transported her to McLaren Macomb, where she later passed away. Sheriff Mat King extended condolences to the family and community and reminded residents that support resources are available for those affected by this tragedy.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron father accused of killing his teenage son and wounding two younger children is set for arraignment today. Prosecutors say 44-year-old Jeffery Smerer opened fire inside a Glenview Court home around 6 a.m. on Thursday. Police say the children’s mother and Smerer’s adult son fought him off, preventing more injuries. The 17-year-old died, while a 13-year-old boy and 12-year-old girl remain hospitalized. Court records show Smerer had been due in court later that morning on an indecent exposure case involving a young child.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron neighbors are rallying to help a local family after a tragic shooting left a 17-year-old boy dead and his 12- and 13-year-old siblings seriously injured. The father was arrested in connection with last Thursday’s incident. The two surviving children are now in a Detroit hospital, with the boy suffering severe facial injuries and the girl paralyzed from the shoulders down. A GoFundMe page has raised over $20,000 of a $35,000 goal to help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and a new handicap-accessible home for the grieving family.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s First Presbyterian Church will host a free outdoor concert Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. St. Brass and Sass, along with other local musicians, will perform, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and dancing shoes.

The event supports the CROP Walk for Hunger, happening Oct. 5th along the Blue Water River Walk. Food, cookies, and a children’s play area will be available, with all proceeds benefiting Church World Service and local food pantries.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet