State Representative Jaime Greene introduced House Bill 4433 to protect local volunteer and on-call emergency responders. The bill stops employers from punishing workers, like New Haven Firefighter Kevyn Swandon, who respond to emergencies before work. It ensures workplace safety and offers legal protection if the rule is broken. The proposal, now in the House Committee on Economic Competitiveness, supports heroes in Lapeer, St. Clair, and Macomb counties.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sanilac County officially welcomed Vince Micallef as Parks Director at Tuesday’s board meeting, though he’s been on the job since April 21. Local resident Jeff Ryan was introduced as the new head of Sanilac Transportation. Commissioners also approved $15,114 in SAVE funds for Project Connect, a free resource event on September 25. Hosted by Sanilac Mental Health, it will offer health checks, haircuts, and local support services for county residents.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Barn Theatre in Port Sanilac is bringing big laughs and local flair to Michigan’s Thumb with its ’25 Summer Season. Kicking off June 6, the lineup features six shows through Labor Day, including family hits like The Snow White Variety Show and Michigan favorite Escanaba in Da Moonlight. Performances run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and tickets are just $15. From zany comedies to heartfelt stories, the Barn delivers affordable fun and small-town theatre charm all summer long.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Cirque Italia is bringing its European-style circus to Fort Gratiot near Birchwood Mall from May 30th to June 1st. The show features thrilling acts, including aerial stunts, extreme balancing, and a “wheel of death,” all performed by talented athletes from around the world. Inspired by the 1950s, the performance will transport audiences to a time of Elvis and hula hoops. The circus will set up a large blue tent in the parking lot, with tickets ranging from $10 to $50.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Heather LaMarra, an ESL teacher at Weston Elementary in Imlay City, has received the Michigan Lottery’s Excellence in Education award. LaMarra, who has been teaching for 22 years, was nominated by a family member. She switched careers from social work to education, inspired by her work with students learning English. LaMarra’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment for students earned her the recognition. The award includes a $2,000 cash prize, and she was featured in a TV news segment.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Robert Leon Smith has been found. The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office had been seeking help in locating the 69-year-old from Fort Gratiot, who had been missing since May 2. He was last seen by a family member, who said he mentioned being in trouble before disappearing. His phone had been off since then, and FLOCK cameras had spotted his black 2012 Town and Country on I-96 near Davison. Smith, who is diabetic and without medication, was believed to be in need of urgent care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet